bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexible Mechanical Sensors Fabricated with Graphene Oxide-Coated Commercial Silk
Authors: Jang Hyun-Seok , Lee Ki Hoon , Kim Byung Hoon
Published: June 2024

Many studies on flexible strain and pressure sensors have been reported due to growing interest in wearable devices for healthcare purposes. Here, we present flexible pressure and strain (motion) sensors prepared with only graphene oxide (GO) and commercial silk fabrics and yarns. The pressure sensors were fabricated by simply dipping the silk fabric into GO solution followed by applying a thermal treatment at 400 °C to obtain reduced GO (rGO). The pressure sensors were made from rGO-coated fabrics, which were stacked in three, five, and seven layers. A super-sensitivity of 2.58 × 103 kPa−1 at low pressure was observed in the seven-layer pressure sensor. The strain sensors were obtained from rGO-coated twisted silk yarns whose gauge factor was 0.307. Although this value is small or comparable to the values for other sensors, it is appropriate for motion sensing. The results of this study show a cost-effective and simple method for the fabrication of pressure and motion sensors with commercial silk and GO.
The Effect of Electric Aging on Vinylidene Fluoride Copolymers for Ferroelectric Memory
Authors: Kochervinskii Valentin V. , Buryanskaya Evgeniya L. , Osipkov Aleksey S. , Makeev Mstislav O. , Kiselev Dmitry A. , Gradova Margarita A. , Gradov Oleg V. , Lokshin Boris V. , Korlyukov Alexandr A.
Published: June 2024

Copolymers based on vinylidene fluoride are potential materials for ferroelectric memory elements. The trend in studies showing that a decrease in the degree of crystallinity can lead to an unexpected increase in the electric breakdown field is noted. An analysis of the literature data reveals that in fluorine-containing ferroelectric polymers, when using a bipolar triangular field, the hysteresis loop has an unclosed shape, with each subsequent loop being accompanied by a decrease in the dielectric response. In this work, the effect of the structure of self-polarized films of copolymers of vinylidene fluoride with tetrafluoroethylene and hexafluoropropylene on breakdown processes was studied. The structure of the polymer films was monitored using infrared spectroscopy (IR) and X-ray diffraction. Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) was applied to characterize the local electrical properties of the polymers. For the films of the first copolymer, which crystallize in the polar β-phase, asymmetry in the dielectric response was observed at fields greater than the coercive field. For the films of the copolymers of vinylidene fluoride with hexafluoropropylene, which crystallize predominantly in the nonpolar α-phase, polarization switching processes have also been observed, but at lower electric fields. The noted phenomena will help to identify the influence of the structure of ferroelectric polymers on their electrical properties.
Acute and Repeated Ashwagandha Supplementation Improves Markers of Cognitive Function and Mood
Authors: Leonard Megan , Dickerson Broderick , Estes Landry , Gonzalez Drew E. , Jenkins Victoria , Johnson Sarah , Xing Dante , Yoo Choongsung , Ko Joungbo , Purpura Martin , Jäger Ralf , Faries Mark , Kephart Wesley , Sowinski Ryan , Rasmussen Christopher J. , Kreider Richard B.
Published: June 2024

Background: Ashwagandha has been reported to reduce stress and attenuate cognitive decline associated with inflammation and neurodegeneration in clinical populations. However, the effects as a potential nootropic nutrient in younger populations are unclear. This study examined the effects of liposomal ashwagandha supplementation on cognitive function, mood, and markers of health and safety in healthy young men and women. Methods: 59 men and women (22.7 ± 7 yrs., 74.9 ± 16 kg, 26.2 ± 5 BMI) fasted for 12 h, donated a fasting blood sample, and were administered the COMPASS cognitive function test battery (Word Recall, Word recognition, Choice Reaction Time Task, Picture Recognition, Digit Vigilance Task, Corsi Block test, Stroop test) and profile of mood states (POMS). In a randomized and double-blind manner, participants were administered 225 mg of a placebo (Gum Arabic) or ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root and leaf extract coated with a liposomal covering. After 60-min, participants repeated cognitive assessments. Participants continued supplementation (225 mg/d) for 30 days and then returned to the lab to repeat the experiment. Data were analyzed using a general linear model (GLM) univariate analysis with repeated measures and pairwise comparisons of mean changes from baseline with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Ashwagandha supplementation improved acute and/or 30-day measures of Word Recall (correct and recalled attempts), Choice Reaction Time (targets identified), Picture Recognition (“yes” correct responses, correct and overall reaction time), Digit Vigilance (correct reaction time), Stroop Color-Word (congruent words identified, reaction time), and POMS (tension and fatigue) from baseline more consistently with several differences observed between groups. Conclusion: Results support contentions that ashwagandha supplementation (225 mg) may improve some measures of memory, attention, vigilance, attention, and executive function while decreasing perceptions of tension and fatigue in younger healthy individuals. Retrospectively registered clinical trial ISRCTN58680760.
Associations between Celiac Disease, Extra-Gastrointestinal Manifestations, and Gluten-Free Diet: A Narrative Overview
Authors: Santonicola Antonella , Wieser Herbert , Gizzi Carolina , Soldaini Carlo , Ciacci Carolina
Published: June 2024

Millions of children and adults worldwide suffer from undiagnosed and untreated celiac disease (CeD). The clinical picture of CeD is highly heterogeneous and comprises manifestations that can affect almost the whole body. This narrative overview is aimed at characterizing diseases and complaints that are associated with unrecognized CeD and that frequently involve sites other than the gastrointestinal (G.I.) tract, i.e., dental, otorhinolaryngological, and ocular complications; skin and hair abnormalities; afflictions of the bones, joints, and muscles; cardiovascular affectations; kidney diseases; neuro-psychiatric disorders; and gynecological–obstetrical manifestations. The association between CeD and extra-GI manifestations is frequently overlooked, which leads to a delay in diagnosis. Most CeD-mediated disorders can be treated with a strict gluten-free diet (GFD), but some of them are irreversible unless CeD is diagnosed in time. Some manifestations can be classified as risk factors for CeD, and CeD screening tests for affected patients should be selectively considered. Apart from gastroenterologists, specialists in other medical disciplines can play an important role in identifying people with unrecognized CeD and may help prevent its progress and long-term complications. Further comprehensive investigations are necessary to clarify the pathogenesis of extra-GI manifestations and the effect of a GFD.
Modeling of Intracellular Taurine Levels Associated with Ovarian Cancer Reveals Activation of p53, ERK, mTOR and DNA-Damage-Sensing-Dependent Cell Protection
Authors: Centeno Daniel , Farsinejad Sadaf , Kochetkova Elena , Volpari Tatiana , Gladych-Macioszek Aleksandra , Klupczynska-Gabryszak Agnieszka , Polotaye Teagan , Greenberg Michael , Kung Douglas , Hyde Emily , Alshehri Sarah , Pavlovic Tonja , Sullivan William , Plewa Szymon , Vakifahmetoglu-Norberg Helin , Monsma Frederick , Muller Patricia , Matysiak Jan , Zaborowski Mikołaj , DiFeo Analisa , Norberg Erik , Martin Laura , Iwanicki Marcin
Published: June 2024

Taurine, a non-proteogenic amino acid and commonly used nutritional supplement, can protect various tissues from degeneration associated with the action of the DNA-damaging chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin. Whether and how taurine protects human ovarian cancer (OC) cells from DNA damage caused by cisplatin is not well understood. We found that OC ascites-derived cells contained significantly more intracellular taurine than cell culture-modeled OC. In culture, elevation of intracellular taurine concentration to OC ascites-cell-associated levels suppressed proliferation of various OC cell lines and patient-derived organoids, reduced glycolysis, and induced cell protection from cisplatin. Taurine cell protection was associated with decreased DNA damage in response to cisplatin. A combination of RNA sequencing, reverse-phase protein arrays, live-cell microscopy, flow cytometry, and biochemical validation experiments provided evidence for taurine-mediated induction of mutant or wild-type p53 binding to DNA, activation of p53 effectors involved in negative regulation of the cell cycle (p21), and glycolysis (TIGAR). Paradoxically, taurine’s suppression of cell proliferation was associated with activation of pro-mitogenic signal transduction including ERK, mTOR, and increased mRNA expression of major DNA damage-sensing molecules such as DNAPK, ATM and ATR. While inhibition of ERK or p53 did not interfere with taurine’s ability to protect cells from cisplatin, suppression of mTOR with Torin2, a clinically relevant inhibitor that also targets DNAPK and ATM/ATR, broke taurine’s cell protection. Our studies implicate that elevation of intracellular taurine could suppress cell growth and metabolism, and activate cell protective mechanisms involving mTOR and DNA damage-sensing signal transduction.
The Anti-Obesogenic Effects of Muscadine Grapes through Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor Receptor (Cntfr) and Histamine Receptor H1 (Hrh1) Genes in 3T3-L1 Differentiated Mouse Cells
Authors: Messeha Samia S. , Agarwal Meenakshi , Gendy Sherif G. , Mehboob Sheikh B. , Soliman Karam F. A.
Published: June 2024

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are prevalent metabolic diseases that have significant links to several chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Muscadine grape extracts have shown the potential to reduce adiposity and improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control. Thus, this study was designed to determine the potential of muscadine grape berries extract (Pineapple and Southern Home) for its antiobesity properties in 3T3-L1 cells as a model for obesity research. The current study’s data indicated the total phenolic content (TPC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydraziyl (DPPH) activity were higher in cultivar (CV) Southern Home, meanwhile, elevated the total flavonoid content (TFC) in Pineapple. Both extracts were safe across the tested range (0–5 mg/mL). A noticeable reduction in lipid accumulation was also found in extract-treated cells. In preadipocytes and adipocytes, the tested extracts showed significant alterations in various genes involved in glucose homeostasis and obesity. The most remarkable findings of the current study are the upregulation of two genes, Cntfr (+712.715-fold) and Hrh1 (+270.11-fold) in CV Pineapple extract-treated adipocytes 3T3-L1 and the high fold increase in Ramp3 induced by both Pineapple and Southern Home in pre-adipose cells. Furthermore, the tested extracts showed a potential to alter the mRNA of various genes, including Zfp91, B2m, Nr3c1, Insr, Atrn, Il6ra, Hsp90ab1, Sort1, and Npy1r. In conclusion, the data generated from the current study suggested that the two extracts under investigation are considered potential candidates for controlling insulin levels and managing obesity.
Phyto-Photodynamic Therapy of Prostate Cancer Cells Mediated by Yemenite ‘Etrog’ Leave Extracts
Authors: Hochma Efrat , Ishai Paul Ben , Firer Michael A. , Minnes Refael
Published: June 2024

Cancer therapy, from malignant tumor inhibition to cellular eradication treatment, remains a challenge, especially regarding reduced side effects and low energy consumption during treatment. Hence, phytochemicals as cytotoxic sensitizers or photosensitizers deserve special attention. The dark and photo-response of Yemenite ‘Etrog’ leaf extracts applied to prostate PC3 cancer cells is reported here. An XTT cell viability assay along with light microscope observations revealed pronounced cytotoxic activity of the extract for long exposure times of 72 h upon concentrations of 175 μg/mL and 87.5 μg/mL, while phototoxic effect was obtained even at low concentration of 10.93 μg/mL and a short introduction period of 1.5 h. For the longest time incubation of 72 h and for the highest extract concentration of 175 μg/mL, relative cell survival decreased by up to 60% (below the IC50). In combined phyto-photodynamic therapy, a reduction of 63% compared to unirradiated controls was obtained. The concentration of extract in cells versus the accumulation time was inversely related to fluorescence emission intensity readings. Extracellular ROS production was also shown. Based on an ATR-FTIR analysis of the powdered leaves and their liquid ethanolic extract, biochemical fingerprints of both polar and non-polar phyto-constituents were identified, thereby suggesting their implementation as phyto-medicine and phyto-photomedicine.
Ingestion of Fluids of the Ocular Surface Containing Eye Drops of Imidazole Derivatives—Alpha Adrenergic Receptor Agonists as Paragons
Authors: Šoša Ivan
Published: June 2024

Accidental poisonings by ingesting conjunctival fluid mixed with eye drops commonly involve alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists and tetrahydrozoline. These substances are recognized in commonly reported ingestions. Victims of all ages, otherwise in good health, often present as pale and lethargic to the emergency department (ED) after unintentionally ingesting topical eye medication. While eye drop poisoning cases in childhood include accidents during the play and poisonings in adults mean either suicide attempts or side effects caused by the systemic absorption of the substance, fluid of the ocular surface is a risk to all age groups. With this in mind, this study aimed to summarize data in the literature on tetrahydrozoline and alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists as dangerous medications, even when administered in low-bioavailability forms, such as eye drops. With this aim, a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-compliant systematic review of relevant studies was conducted. A search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost yielded nine studies that met the rigorous inclusion criteria. The primary studies were subject to a meta-analysis once a quality appraisal of the studies and a narrative synthesis of the extracted data had been conducted. The author hopes that this information will provide observations that will lead to better designs for over-the-counter eye drops, off-label drug usage policies, and parental attention.
Exploring the Potential Use of Natural Products Together with Alkalization in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Isowa Masahide , Hamaguchi Reo , Narui Ryoko , Morikawa Hiromasa , Okamoto Toshihiro , Wada Hiromi
Published: June 2024

Cancer treatment is a significant focus in medicine, owing to the increasing global incidence of cancers. Patients with advanced cancers that do not respond to conventional therapies have limited options and an unfavorable prognosis. Consequently, researchers are investigating complementary approaches to conventional treatments. One such approach is alkalization therapy, which aims to neutralize the acidic tumor microenvironment (TME) by increasing its pH level. The acidic TME promotes inflammation, tumor progression, and drug resistance. Alkalization therapy has been demonstrated to be effective for various cancers. In addition, natural products, such as triterpenoids, parthenolides, fulvic acid, Taxus yunnanensis, and apple pectin have the potential to alleviate symptoms, maintain physical fitness, and improve treatment outcomes of cancer patients through their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. In this review, we focus on the effects of alkalization therapy and natural products on cancer. Furthermore, we present a case series of advanced cancer patients who received alkalization therapy and natural products alongside standard treatments, resulting in long-term survival. We posit that alkalization therapy together with supplementation with natural products may confer benefits to cancer patients, by mitigating the side effects of chemotherapy and complementing standard treatments. However, further research is warranted to validate these clinical findings.
A Highly Sensitive Plasmonic Graphene-Based Structure for Deoxyribonucleic Acid Detection
Authors: Salehnezhad Zohre , Soroosh Mohammad , Mondal Haraprasad
Published: June 2024

In this study, a Kretschmann structure with a hybrid layer of graphene–WS2 is designed to develop a sensitive biosensor for deoxyribonucleic acid detection. The biosensor incorporates a 45 nm gold layer as the active layer and a thin film of chrome as the adhesive layer. Through the optimization of the graphene and WS2 layers, combined with the implementation of a silicon layer, we can enhance the nano-sensor’s sensitivity. The thin silicon layer acts as a protective barrier for the metal, while also increasing the volume of interaction. Consequently, by adjusting the thickness of the active metal and adding a silicon layer, we achieve higher sensitivity and a lower full width at half maximum, leading to sensitivity of 333.33°/RIU. The designed structure is analyzed using numerical techniques and the finite difference time domain method, allowing us to obtain the optical characteristics of the surface plasmon polariton sensor. Various parameters are calculated and evaluated to determine the optimal conditions for the sensor. Furthermore, the total size of the sensor is 2.228 µm2.
Development and Investigation of an Innovative 3D Biohybrid Based on Collagen and Silk Sericin Enriched with Flavonoids for Potential Wound Healing Applications
Authors: Sleiman Lea , Lazăr (Popa) Andreea-Daniela , Albu-Kaya Mădălina , Marin Minodora Maria , Kaya Durmuș Alpaslan , Vasile Otilia-Ruxandra , Dinescu Sorina
Published: June 2024

Skin tissue injuries necessitate particular care due to associated complex healing mechanisms. Current investigations in the domain of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine are focused on obtaining novel scaffolds adapted as potential delivery systems to restore lost tissue functions and properties. In this study, we describe the fabrication and evaluation of a novel 3D scaffold structure based on collagen and silk sericin (CollSS) enriched with microcapsules containing natural compounds, curcumin (C), and/or quercetin (Q). These 3D composites were characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy, water uptake, in vitro collagenase degradation, and SEM microscopy. Furthermore, they were biologically evaluated in terms of biocompatibility, cell adhesion, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. All tested materials indicated an overall suitable biocompatibility, with the best results obtained for the one containing both flavonoids. This study suggests the cumulative beneficial effect of C and Q, encapsulated in the same composite, as a potential non-invasive therapeutic strategy for skin tissue regeneration in patients suffering from chronic wounds.
Valuable Nutrients, Aroma Profile, and Functional Bioactives Extracted by Eco-Friendly Extraction Techniques from Wild Olive Fruits (Olea europaea L. var. sylvestris)
Authors: Irakli Maria , Samara Theano , Bouloumpasi Elisavet , Kadoglidou Kalliopi , Chatzopoulou Paschalina , Spanos Ioannis
Published: June 2024

Wild olive tree, or oleaster (var. sylvestris), native to the Mediterranean region, is considered a traditional source of healthy food. Wild olive fruit (WOF) exhibits several biological properties associated with its chemical composition. Although Greece has important olive genetic resources, including oleaster populations, limited information is available on the chemical characterization of WOF. Therefore, the present investigation was undertaken to study the nutritional, bioactive (phenolics, tocopherols, and pigments), volatile profile, and antioxidant properties of WOF collected from Greece. Moreover, eco-friendly processes, including ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), were applied to obtain oleuropein-rich extracts from WOF. Evaluation of phenolic composition in WOF extracts was carried out by LC-DAD-ESI-MS, while antioxidant activity was evaluated by applying DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP methods. Our outcomes show that Greek WOF is rich in oleic acid (71.55%), total phenolics (64.89 mg GAE/g dw), tocopherols (107.05 mg/kg dw), and carotenoids (85.90 mg/kg dw). Oleuropein (72.03 mg/g dw) was the main phenolic compound in the WOF extracts. Also, the WOF was characterized by an increased level of volatile compounds, mainly terpenoids (46.73%). UAE was more efficient than MAE and ASE for recovering oleuropein-rich extracts with high antioxidant activity. These results emphasized the high potential of WOF as an alternative bioactive ingredient for use in the food industry.
Efficient Chitin Extraction from Shrimp Exoskeletons through Single-Step Fermentation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa QF50 and Serratia sp. QCS23
Authors: Quiñones-Cerna Claudio , Rodríguez-Soto Juan Carlos , Hurtado-Butrón Fernando , Centeno-Calderón Luis , Mejia-Ruedell Rosa , López-Quiroz Eulalio , Gálvez-Rivera Julieta , Ugarte-López Wilmer
Published: June 2024

Chitin, an abundant biopolymer with potential applications in agriculture, medicine, and bioremediation, is conventionally extracted using chemical methods that have environmental disadvantages. This study investigates the extraction of chitin from Litopenaeus vannamei shrimp waste by one-step fermentation using the bacterial strains Pseudomonas aeruginosa QF50 and Serratia sp. QCS23. A total of 4 kg of shrimp waste was treated by fermentation with culture media enriched with different concentrations of glucose (1, 5, and 10%) for 7 days at 25 °C, followed by purification and characterization processes using infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The results demonstrated an increase in the yield of crude chitin proportional to the glucose concentration, reaching a maximum of 76.81 ± 7.64% for Pseudomonas aeruginosa QF50 and 71.30 ± 1.16% for Serratia sp. QCS23. Both strains showed high efficiencies in deproteinization (80–87%) and demineralization, with significant improvements especially shown at high glucose concentrations. Structural characterization confirmed the presence of the spectral characteristics of α-chitin, with crystallinity indices of 81% and 71% for chitins obtained with Pseudomonas aeruginosa QF50 and Serratia sp. QCS23, respectively. This study concludes that single-step fermentation with Pseudomonas aeruginosa QF50 and Serratia sp. QCS23 is an effective and sustainable method for the extraction of high-quality chitin from shrimp exoskeleton waste, offering a promising alternative to traditional chemical methods.
GFsa (GF “Scientific Age”) Index Application for Assessment of 1020 Highly Cited Researchers in Dentistry: A Pilot Study Comparing GFsa Index and H-Index
Authors: Fernandes Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira , Fernandes Juliana Campos Hasse
Published: June 2024

Objective: The goal of this pilot study was to present a new index system (GFsa©) based on two variables, the total citations and “scientific age”, to evaluate the best-ranked researchers in dentistry. Methods: All researchers included were cited in the AD Scientific Index (2024, dentistry field) and had their Google Scholar page accessible for a manual consultation. Two authors retrieved this information. A dataset was prepared (name, H-index, i10 index, and publications). The formula applied was GFsa = (total number of citations)/(“scientific age”)2. The Pearson correlation statistically evaluated the data obtained; the confidence interval was 95%. Results: A total of 1020 were included. The mean “scientific age” was 34.18 ± 13.34. The GFsa© index was calculated, presenting a minimum value of 0.2186 and a maximum of 154.8. The data were organized and sorted following the ranking obtained. The Pearson correlation showed that the H-index had a weakly positive association with the researcher’s “scientific age”; thus, the H-index increased according to the increase in “scientific age”. By contrast, a moderately negative correlation between GFsa and “scientific age” was demonstrated. Moreover, a positive correlation was observed between both indexes. Conclusions: The variable reported (“Scientific age”) provided a better evaluation among the researchers in dentistry.
Optimization Production of an Endo-β-1,4-Xylanase from Streptomyces thermocarboxydus Using Wheat Bran as Sole Carbon Source
Authors: Tran Thi Ngoc , Doan Chien Thang , Dinh Thi Kieu Loan , Duong Thi Hai Ninh , Phan Thi Thuc Uyen , Le Thi Thuy Loan , Tran Trung Dung , Hoang Pham Hung Quang , Nguyen Anh Dzung , Wang San-Lang
Published: June 2024

Xylanases, key enzymes for hydrolyzing xylan, have diverse industrial applications. The bioprocessing of agricultural byproducts to produce xylanase through fermentation approaches is gaining importance due to its significant potential to reduce enzyme production costs. In this work, the productivity of Streptomyces thermocarboxydus TKU045 xylanase was enhanced through liquid fermentation employing wheat bran as the sole carbon source. The maximum xylanase activity (25.314 ± 1.635 U/mL) was obtained using the following optima factors: 2% (w/v) wheat bran, 1.4% (w/v) KNO3, an initial pH of 9.8, an incubation temperature of 37.3 °C, and an incubation time of 2.2 days. Xylanase (Xyn_TKU045) of 43 kDa molecular weight was isolated from the culture supernatant and was biochemically characterized. Analysis through liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry revealed a maximum amino acid identity of 19% with an endo-1,4-β-xylanase produced by Streptomyces lividans. Xyn_TKU045 exhibited optimal activity at pH 6, with remarkable stability within the pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. The enzyme demonstrated maximum efficiency at 60 °C and considerable stability at ≤70 °C. Mg2+, Mn2+, Ba2+, Ca2+, 2-mercaptoethanol, Tween 20, Tween 40, and Triton X-100 positively influenced Xyn_TKU045, while Zn2+, Fe2+, Fe3+, Cu2+, and sodium dodecyl sulfate exhibited adverse impact. The kinetic properties of Xyn_TKU045 were a Km of 0.628 mg/mL, a kcat of 75.075 s−1 and a kcat/Km of 119.617 mL mg−1s−1. Finally, Xyn_TKU045 could effectively catalyze birchwood xylan into xylotriose and xylobiose as the major products.
Formation of a Sacred Urban Landscape: Study on the Spatial Distribution of Pagodas in Mrauk-U, Myanmar
Authors: Zhou Yan , Jiang Hong , Lu Tianyang , Shen Xinjie
Published: June 2024

Studying the correlation between religions and cities is conducive to understanding the role of worship in shaping human settlements. Mrauk-U, the capital of the Arakan Kingdom in Southeast Asia during the 15th–18th centuries, was once a regional Buddhist center, and the pagodas distributed throughout this city demonstrate the visible influence of Buddhism. The purpose of this study is to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the significance of Buddhism in Mrauk-U by exploring the correlation between the pagodas and the urban space. Based on first-hand spatial data, historical maps, and archaeological studies, the spatial distribution characteristics of the pagodas in Mrauk-U were analyzed using the methods of spatial and literature analysis. Their relationships with the urban structure, mountains, water systems, and open space were visualized and examined using the GIS platform; then, the hidden historical mechanisms were investigated. This study concludes that Mrauk-U’s pagodas, as urban images, have shaped its sacred urban landscape system, revealing that Buddhism played an important role in shaping Mrauk-U’s physical space and social and cultural characteristics.
Preliminary Exploration of Coverage for Moon-Based/HEO Spaceborne Bistatic SAR Earth Observation in Polar Regions
Authors: Zhang Ke , Guo Huadong , Jiang Di , Han Chunming , Chen Guoqiang
Published: June 2024

To address the challenge of achieving both temporal consistency and spatial continuity in Earth observation data of polar regions, this paper proposes an innovative concept of Moon-based/Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO) Spaceborne Bistatic Synthetic Aperture Radar (MH-BiSAR), with transmitters on the Moon and receivers on HEO satellites. By utilizing ephemeris data and an orbit propagator, this study explores MH-BiSAR’s geometric coverage capabilities in polar regions and conducts a preliminary analysis of its characteristics. The findings reveal that MH-BiSAR could provide continuous multi-day revisit observations of polar regions within each sidereal month, presenting a significant advantage for monitoring high-dynamic and large-scale scientific phenomena, such as polar sea ice observations. This innovative observational method offers a new perspective for polar monitoring and is expected to deepen our understanding of polar phenomena.
A Spectral and Spatial Comparison of Satellite-Based Hyperspectral Data for Geological Mapping
Authors: Chakraborty Rupsa , Rachdi Imane , Thiele Samuel , Booysen René , Kirsch Moritz , Lorenz Sandra , Gloaguen Richard , Sebari Imane
Published: June 2024

The new generation of satellite hyperspectral (HS) sensors provides remarkable potential for regional-scale mineralogical mapping. However, as with any satellite sensor, mapping results are dependent on a typically complex correction procedure needed to remove atmospheric, topographic and geometric distortions before accurate reflectance spectra can be retrieved. These are typically applied by the satellite operators but use different approaches that can yield different results. In this study, we conduct a comparative analysis of PRISMA, EnMAP, and EMIT hyperspectral satellite data, alongside airborne data acquired by the HyMap sensor, to investigate the consistency between these datasets and their suitability for geological mapping. Two sites in Namibia were selected for this comparison, the Marinkas-Quellen and Epembe carbonatite complexes, based on their geological significance, relatively good exposure, arid climate and data availability. We conducted qualitative and three different quantitative comparisons of the hyperspectral data from these sites. These included correlative comparisons of (1) the reflectance values across the visible-near infrared (VNIR) to shortwave infrared (SWIR) spectral ranges, (2) established spectral indices sensitive to minerals we expect in each of the scenes, and (3) spectral abundances estimated using linear unmixing. The results highlighted a notable shift in inter-sensor consistency between the VNIR and SWIR spectral ranges, with the VNIR range being more similar between the compared sensors than the SWIR. Our qualitative comparisons suggest that the SWIR spectra from the EnMAP and EMIT sensors are the most interpretable (show the most distinct absorption features) but that latent features (i.e., endmember abundances) from the HyMap and PRISMA sensors are consistent with geological variations. We conclude that our results reinforce the need for accurate radiometric and topographic corrections, especially for the SWIR range most commonly used for geological mapping.
Dynamics of the Net Precipitation in China from 2001 to 2020
Authors: Pan Jing , Ji Yongyue , Yan Lingyun , Luo Yixia , Chen Jilong
Published: June 2024

Net precipitation (NP) is the primary source of soil water essential for the functioning of vegetated ecosystems. By quantifying NP as the difference between gross precipitation and canopy interception evaporation, this study examined the dynamics of NP in China from 2001 to 2020 and the contribution of environmental factors to NP variations was investigated. The findings revealed a multiyear mean NP of 674.62 mm, showcasing a 2.93 mm/yr increase. The spatiotemporal variations in NP were mainly attributed to a remarkable increase in precipitation rather than canopy interception. Notably, climate (temperature, wind speed, surface solar radiation downward and vapor pressure deficit) and vegetation factors (leaf area index and net primary productivity) played a dominant role in NP in 61.53% and 15.39% of China, respectively. The dominant factors contributing to NP changes were vapor pressure deficit (mean contribution rate: −43.68%), temperature (mean contribution rate: 11.69%), and leaf area index (mean contribution rate: 2.13%). The vapor pressure deficit negatively exerts a negative influence on the southern and eastern regions. Temperature and leaf area index have the greatest effect on the northeastern and southwestern regions, respectively. The results provide valuable insights into the pivotal role of climatic and vegetation factors in ecohydrological cycles.
Improved Identification of Forest Types in the Loess Plateau Using Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data, Transfer Learning, and Neural Residual Networks
Authors: Zhang Mei , Yin Daihao , Li Zhen , Zhao Zhong
Published: June 2024

This study aims to establish a deep learning-based classification framework to efficiently and rapidly distinguish between coniferous and broadleaf forests across the Loess Plateau. By integrating the deep residual neural network (ResNet) architecture with transfer learning techniques and multispectral data from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and Landsat remote sensing data, the effectiveness of the framework was validated through well-designed experiments. The study began by selecting optimal spectral band combinations, using the random forest algorithm. Pre-trained models were then constructed, and model performance was optimized with different training strategies, considering factors such as image size, sample quantity, and model depth. The results indicated substantial improvements in the model’s classification accuracy and efficiency for reasonable image dimensions and sample sizes, especially for an image size of 3 × 3 pixels and 2000 samples. In addition, the application of transfer learning and model fine-tuning strategies greatly enhanced the adaptability and universality of the model in different classification scenarios. The fine-tuned model achieved remarkable performance improvements in forest-type classification tasks, increasing classification accuracy from 85% to 93% in Zhengning, from 89% to 96% in Yongshou, and from 86% to 94% in Baishui, as well as exceeding 90% in all counties. These results not only confirm the effectiveness of the proposed framework, but also emphasize the roles of image size, sample quantity, and model depth in improving the generalization ability and classification accuracy of the model. In conclusion, this research has developed a technological framework for effective forest landscape recognition, using a combination of multispectral data from UAVs and Landsat satellites. This combination proved to be more effective in identifying forest types than was using Landsat data alone, demonstrating the enhanced capability and accuracy gained by integrating UAV technology. This research provides valuable scientific guidance and tools for policymakers and practitioners in forest management and sustainable development.
Mobile Sensor Path Planning for Kalman Filter Spatiotemporal Estimation
Authors: Mei Jiazhong , Brunton Steven L. , Kutz J. Nathan
Published: June 2024

The estimation of spatiotemporal data from limited sensor measurements is a required task across many scientific disciplines. In this paper, we consider the use of mobile sensors for estimating spatiotemporal data via Kalman filtering. The sensor selection problem, which aims to optimize the placement of sensors, leverages innovations in greedy algorithms and low-rank subspace projection to provide model-free, data-driven estimates. Alternatively, Kalman filter estimation balances model-based information and sparsely observed measurements to collectively make better estimation with limited sensors. It is especially important with mobile sensors to utilize historical measurements. We show that mobile sensing along dynamic trajectories can achieve the equivalent performance of a larger number of stationary sensors, with performance gains related to three distinct timescales: (i) the timescale of the spatiotemporal dynamics, (ii) the velocity of the sensors, and (iii) the rate of sampling. Taken together, these timescales strongly influence how well-conditioned the estimation task is. We draw connections between the Kalman filter performance and the observability of the state space model and propose a greedy path planning algorithm based on minimizing the condition number of the observability matrix. This approach has better scalability and computational efficiency compared to previous works. Through a series of examples of increasing complexity, we show that mobile sensing along our paths improves Kalman filter performance in terms of better limiting estimation and faster convergence. Moreover, it is particularly effective for spatiotemporal data that contain spatially localized structures, whose features are captured along dynamic trajectories.
A Virtual Testing Framework for Real-Time Validation of Automotive Software Systems Based on Hardware in the Loop and Fault Injection
Authors: Abboush Mohammad , Knieke Christoph , Rausch Andreas
Published: June 2024

To validate safety-related automotive software systems, experimental tests are conducted at different stages of the V-model, which are referred as “X-in-the-loop (XIL) methods”. However, these methods have significant drawbacks in terms of cost, time, effort and effectiveness. In this study, based on hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation and real-time fault injection (FI), a novel testing framework has been developed to validate system performance under critical abnormal situations during the development process. The developed framework provides an approach for the real-time analysis of system behavior under single and simultaneous sensor/actuator-related faults during virtual test drives without modeling effort for fault mode simulations. Unlike traditional methods, the faults are injected programmatically and the system architecture is ensured without modification to meet the real-time constraints. Moreover, a virtual environment is modeled with various environmental conditions, such as weather, traffic and roads. The validation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework in a variety of driving scenarios. The evaluation results demonstrate that the system behavior via HIL simulation has a high accuracy compared to the non-real-time simulation method with an average relative error of 2.52. The comparative study with the state-of-the-art methods indicates that the proposed approach exhibits superior accuracy and capability. This, in turn, provides a safe, reliable and realistic environment for the real-time validation of complex automotive systems at a low cost, with minimal time and effort.
Detecting DoS Attacks through Synthetic User Behavior with Long Short-Term Memory Network
Authors: Nędza Patrycja , Domżał Jerzy
Published: June 2024

With the escalation in the size and complexity of modern Denial of Service attacks, there is a need for research in the context of Machine Learning (ML) used in attack execution and defense against such attacks. This paper investigates the potential use of ML in generating behavioral telemetry data using Long Short-Term Memory network and spoofing requests for the analyzed traffic to look legitimate. For this research, a custom testing environment was built that listens for mouse and keyboard events and analyzes them accordingly. While the economic feasibility of this attack currently limits its immediate threat, advancements in technology could make it more cost-effective for attackers in the future. Therefore, proactive development of countermeasures remains essential to mitigate potential risks and stay ahead of evolving attack methods.
Test Platform for Developing New Optical Position Tracking Technology towards Improved Head Motion Correction in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Silic Marina , Tam Fred , Graham Simon J.
Published: June 2024

Optical tracking of head pose via fiducial markers has been proven to enable effective correction of motion artifacts in the brain during magnetic resonance imaging but remains difficult to implement in the clinic due to lengthy calibration and set up times. Advances in deep learning for markerless head pose estimation have yet to be applied to this problem because of the sub-millimetre spatial resolution required for motion correction. In the present work, two optical tracking systems are described for the development and training of a neural network: one marker-based system (a testing platform for measuring ground truth head pose) with high tracking fidelity to act as the training labels, and one markerless deep-learning-based system using images of the markerless head as input to the network. The markerless system has the potential to overcome issues of marker occlusion, insufficient rigid attachment of the marker, lengthy calibration times, and unequal performance across degrees of freedom (DOF), all of which hamper the adoption of marker-based solutions in the clinic. Detail is provided on the development of a custom moiré-enhanced fiducial marker for use as ground truth and on the calibration procedure for both optical tracking systems. Additionally, the development of a synthetic head pose dataset is described for the proof of concept and initial pre-training of a simple convolutional neural network. Results indicate that the ground truth system has been sufficiently calibrated and can track head pose with an error of <1 mm and <1°. Tracking data of a healthy, adult participant are shown. Pre-training results show that the average root-mean-squared error across the 6 DOF is 0.13 and 0.36 (mm or degrees) on a head model included and excluded from the training dataset, respectively. Overall, this work indicates excellent feasibility of the deep-learning-based approach and will enable future work in training and testing on a real dataset in the MRI environment.
Development of a Simple Setup to Measure Shielding Effectiveness at Microwave Frequencies
Authors: Cardillo Emanuele , Carcione Fabrizio Lorenzo , Ferro Luigi , Piperopoulos Elpida , Mastronardo Emanuela , Scandurra Graziella , Ciofi Carmine
Published: June 2024

Testing the shielding effectiveness of materials is a key step for many applications, from the industrial to the biomedical field. This task is very relevant for high-sensitivity sensors, whose performance can be greatly affected by electromagnetic fields. However, the available testing procedures often require expensive, bulky, and heavy measurement chambers. In this paper, a cost-effective and reliable measurement procedure for testing the shielding effectiveness of materials is proposed. It exploits a lab-scale anechoic shielded chamber, which is lightweight, compact, and cost-effective if compared to the available commercial solutions. The measurement procedure employs a vector network analyzer to allow an accurate and fast characterization setup. The chamber realization phases and the measurement procedure are described. The shielding capability of the chamber is measured up to 26 GHz, whereas the performance of commercial shielding coatings is tested to demonstrate the measurement’s effectiveness.
Laboratory Investigations of the Leica RTC360 Laser Scanner—Distance Measuring Performance
Authors: Bauer Peter , Woschitz Helmut
Published: June 2024

A Leica RTC360 laser scanner was investigated using a linear horizontal comparator system with four targets of different reflectance. Several thousand panorama scans were conducted along the 30 m long comparator, basically in 40 mm steps. For a selected target, more detailed investigations were carried out with a 2 mm step width for a 2 m wide section. The absolute offset between the scanner and the relative interferometer measurements was determined with a calibrated total station. The investigations revealed several systematic effects like an offset in the distance measurement of about 1.3 mm. Furthermore, sections with stochastic behavior as well as sections with pseudo-cyclic parts were observed, depending on the reflectance of the target. The deterministic sections showed curved and striped patterns with some discontinuities of about 2 mm at 20 m, resulting in a saw-tooth like pattern along the distances. Within all the experiments, the distance deviations were below the manufacturer specifications of the 3D point accuracy. However, it was demonstrated that the distance measurements had clear systematic components. In using these new findings, the specification of the measurement “noise” in the data sheet has to be seen as critical.
Efficient Haze Removal from a Single Image Using a DCP-Based Lightweight U-Net Neural Network Model
Authors: Han Yunho , Kim Jiyoung , Lee Jinyoung , Nah Jae-Ho , Ho Yo-Sung , Park Woo-Chan
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we propose a lightweight U-net architecture neural network model based on Dark Channel Prior (DCP) for efficient haze (fog) removal with a single input. The existing DCP requires high computational complexity in its operation. These computations are challenging to accelerate, and the problem is exacerbated when dealing with high-resolution images (videos), making it very difficult to apply to general-purpose applications. Our proposed model addresses this issue by employing a two-stage neural network structure, replacing the computationally complex operations of the conventional DCP with easily accelerated convolution operations to achieve high-quality fog removal. Furthermore, our proposed model is designed with an intuitive structure using a relatively small number of parameters (2M), utilizing resources efficiently. These features demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed model for fog removal. The experimental results show that the proposed neural network model achieves an average Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) of 26.65 dB and a Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM) of 0.88, indicating an improvement in the average PSNR of 11.5 dB and in SSIM of 0.22 compared to the conventional DCP. This shows that the proposed neural network achieves comparable results to CNN-based neural networks that have achieved SOTA-class performance, despite its intuitive structure with a relatively small number of parameters.
Ultra-Wide Band Radar Empowered Driver Drowsiness Detection with Convolutional Spatial Feature Engineering and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Siddiqui Hafeez Ur Rehman , Akmal Ambreen , Iqbal Muhammad , Saleem Adil Ali , Raza Muhammad Amjad , Zafar Kainat , Zaib Aqsa , Dudley Sandra , Arambarri Jon , Castilla Ángel Kuc , Rustam Furqan
Published: June 2024

Driving while drowsy poses significant risks, including reduced cognitive function and the potential for accidents, which can lead to severe consequences such as trauma, economic losses, injuries, or death. The use of artificial intelligence can enable effective detection of driver drowsiness, helping to prevent accidents and enhance driver performance. This research aims to address the crucial need for real-time and accurate drowsiness detection to mitigate the impact of fatigue-related accidents. Leveraging ultra-wideband radar data collected over five minutes, the dataset was segmented into one-minute chunks and transformed into grayscale images. Spatial features are retrieved from the images using a two-dimensional Convolutional Neural Network. Following that, these features were used to train and test multiple machine learning classifiers. The ensemble classifier RF-XGB-SVM, which combines Random Forest, XGBoost, and Support Vector Machine using a hard voting criterion, performed admirably with an accuracy of 96.6%. Additionally, the proposed approach was validated with a robust k-fold score of 97% and a standard deviation of 0.018, demonstrating significant results. The dataset is augmented using Generative Adversarial Networks, resulting in improved accuracies for all models. Among them, the RF-XGB-SVM model outperformed the rest with an accuracy score of 99.58%.