bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bio-Stimulated Adsorption of Cr(VI) from Aqueous Solution by Groundnut Shell Activated Carbon@Al Embedded Material
Authors: Vaddi Dhilleswara Rao , Gurugubelli Thirumala Rao , Koutavarapu Ravindranadh , Lee Dong-Yeon , Shim Jaesool
Published: March 2022

In this study, a low-cost bioadsorbent aluminum metal blended with groundnut shell activated carbon material (Al-GNSC) was used for Cr(VI) adsorption from aqueous solutions. Al-GNSC was prepared and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to determine its surface morphology. Batch studies were performed and the optimum conditions for maximum Cr(VI) removal (of 94.2%) were found at pH 4.0, initial concentration 100 mg/L, adsorbent dosage 8 g/L of Cr(VI) solution, and time of contact 50 min. Moreover, the Langmuir isotherm model (maximum adsorption capacity of 13.458 mg/g) was the best fit and favored the mono-layered Cr(VI) adsorption. The kinetic studies reveal that the pseudo-second-order model was the best fit and favored chemisorption as the rate-limiting step. The desorption study revealed that Cr(VI) leached with sodium hydroxide solution acted as a regenerating agent. It is proved that Al-GNSC removes the Cr(VI) content in groundwater samples. The methodology developed using the Al-GNSC adsorbent as an alternative for the adsorption of Cr(VI) ions is remarkably successful in this study.
Improved Iterative Closest Contour Point Matching Navigation Algorithm Based on Geomagnetic Vector
Authors: Ren Yuan , Wang Lihui , Lin Kunjie , Ma Hongtao , Ma Mingzhu
Published: March 2022

The geomagnetic matching aided positioning system based on Iterative Closest Contour Point (ICCP) algorithm can suppress the accumulation error of the inertial navigation system and achieve the accurate positioning of the vehicle. Aiming at the problem that the ICCP algorithm is sensitive to heading error and easily mismatches in regions with similar geomagnetic general features, an improved ICCP matching algorithm based on geomagnetic vector is proposed. The ant colony algorithm is designed to improve the search strategy in a large probability range. The geomagnetic three-dimensional vector feature and the Hausdoff distance are employed as the objective function for multiple iterations, improving matching efficiency and accuracy. Simulation results show that compared with the traditional ICCP algorithm, the positioning error of the matching track, the heading error, and the matching time of the improved ICCP algorithm are reduced by 69.6%, 44.0% and 39.0%, respectively.
Quality of Pepper Seed By-Products: A Review
Authors: Cvetković Tanja , Ranilović Jasmina , Jokić Stela
Published: March 2022

Peppers are grown all around the world, usually for fresh consumption, as well as for the industrial production of different products. Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds are mostly considered a by-product. Recent investigations have shown that pepper seeds have the potential to be a valuable source of edible oil and fiber-rich flour and protein after processing. Pepper seed oil is a high-quality edible oil according to quality analysis (nutritional, chemical, sensory and antioxidant characteristics) and is suitable as an ingredient for use in the food and nonfood industries (pharmaceutical, chemical, cosmetic industries). The literature review presented in this paper revealed the high quality of two pepper seed by-products (pepper seed oil and pepper seed flour (Capsicum annuum L.)), which could guide the food industry toward new product development based on the circular bioeconomy.
The Association between Working Posture and Workers’ Depression
Authors: Kim Ka Young
Published: March 2022

Various studies have focused on the association between physical health and working posture. However, little research has been conducted on the association between working posture and mental health, despite the importance of workers’ mental health. This study aimed to examine the association between working posture and workers’ depression. A total of 49,877 workers were analyzed using data from the 5th Korean Working Conditions Survey. We utilized multiple logistic regression to analyze the variables associated with workers’ depression. This study showed that several working postures, such as tiring or painful positions, lifting or moving people, standing, and sitting, were associated with depression in workers. Furthermore, occupation types, job satisfaction, and physical health problems related to back pain and pain in upper (neck, shoulder, and arm) and lower (hip, leg, knee, and foot) body parts were associated with workers’ depression. Therefore, this study demonstrated that working posture is associated with workers’ depression. In particular, working postures causing musculoskeletal pain, improper working postures maintained for a long time, and occupation types were associated with workers’ depression. Our findings demonstrate the need for appropriate management and interventions for addressing pain-inducing or improper working postures in the workplace.
A Psychometric Evaluation of the Family Collaboration Scale and an Investigation of How the Close Family of Frail Older Patients Perceive the Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals on Acute Medical Wards at Hospitals in Sweden
Authors: Ahlström Gerd , Björkman Eva , Lundqvist Lars-Olov
Published: March 2022

The inclusion of family members in the acute care of older persons with complex needs results in better coordination of care and reduces the frequency and/or duration of rehospitalisation. Therefore, healthcare professionals need a tool to assess the collaboration with family members on acute hospital wards. The aims were to test the psychometric properties of the Swedish version of the Family Collaboration Scale (FCS), to investigate family members’ perception of collaboration with healthcare professionals on acute medical wards in Sweden and to compare the data with the corresponding Danish results. Three hundred and sixty family members of frail patients aged 65 or older from 13 acute medical wards answered the FCS questionnaire. In addition to descriptive statistics, psychometric methods were applied. The internal consistency of the Swedish version of the FCS was excellent, and confirmatory factor analysis revealed that its factor structure was equivalent to that of the original Danish FCS. The respondents’ ratings indicated better perceived collaboration than in the Danish case. Older age than 60 was associated with worse collaboration with healthcare professionals regarding Influence on discharge than younger respondents. Those with compulsory and health or nursing education showed better collaboration. The Swedish version of the FCS should be further evaluated for its retest reliability and as an outcome measure in intervention studies.
Free Cholesterol Accelerates Aβ Self-Assembly on Membranes at Physiological Concentration
Authors: Hashemi Mohtadin , Banerjee Siddhartha , Lyubchenko Yuri
Published: March 2022

The effects of membranes on the early-stage aggregation of amyloid β (Aβ) have come to light as potential mechanisms by which neurotoxic species are formed in Alzheimer’s disease. We have shown that direct Aβ-membrane interactions dramatically enhance the Aβ aggregation, allowing for oligomer assembly at physiologically low concentrations of the monomer. Membrane composition is also a crucial factor in this process. Our results showed that apart from phospholipids composition, cholesterol in membranes significantly enhances the aggregation kinetics. It has been reported that free cholesterol is present in plaques. Here we report that free cholesterol, along with its presence inside the membrane, further accelerate the aggregation process by producing aggregates more rapidly and of significantly larger sizes. These aggregates, which are formed on the lipid bilayer, are able to dissociate from the surface and accumulate in the bulk solution; the presence of free cholesterol accelerates this dissociation as well. All-atom molecular dynamics simulations show that cholesterol binds Aβ monomers and significantly changes the conformational sampling of Aβ monomer; more than doubling the fraction of low-energy conformations compared to those in the absence of cholesterol, which can contribute to the aggregation process. The results indicate that Aβ-lipid interaction is an important factor in the disease prone amyloid assembly process.
Occult Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: An Underappreciated Disease
Authors: Cai Jingsheng , Yang Fan , Wang Xun
Published: March 2022

Background: The number of researches on occult non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is modest. Herein, we defined the clinicopathological features, prognosis and survival outcome of this underappreciated tumor, with purpose of obtaining a clearer picture on this disease. Methods: The entire cohort was categorized into two groups (occult NSCLC and other NSCLC) and further into five groups (occult, T1, T2, T3 and T4). A least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) penalized Cox regression model was performed to identify the prognostic indicators. A nomogram and a risk-classifying system were formulated. Kaplan–Meier with Log-rank method was carried out to compare overall survival (OS) and cancer specific survival (CSS) differences between groups. Results: 59,046 eligible NSCLC cases (occult NSCLC: 1158 cases; other NSCLC: 57,888 cases) were included. Occult NSCLC accounted for 2.0% of the included cases. Multivariate analysis revealed that age, sex, tumor location, histology, grade and surgery were prognostic factors for OS. The corresponding prognostic nomogram classified occult NSCLC patients into low-risk and high-risk group, and its performance was acceptable. Survival curves demonstrated that occult NSCLC patients exhibited worse survivals than other NSCLC. In further analyses, the survival of low-risk occult NSCLC and stage T3 NSCLC were comparable, and the high-risk occult NSCLC patients still owned the worst survival rate. Conclusions: Occult NSCLC was an aggressive tumor with poor prognosis, and surgery was the preferred treatment. More attention should be paid to this overlooked disease due to no evidence of tumor imaging.
Trends in the Management of Headache Disorders in US Emergency Departments: Analysis of 2007–2018 National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey Data
Authors: Yang Seonkyeong , Orlova Yulia , Lipe Abigale , Boren Macy , Hincapie-Castillo Juan M. , Park Haesuk , Chang Ching-Yuan , Wilson Debbie L. , Adkins Lauren , Lo-Ciganic Wei-Hsuan
Published: March 2022

We examined trends in management of headache disorders in United States (US) emergency department (ED) visits. We conducted a cross-sectional study using 2007–2018 National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey data. We included adult patient visits (≥18 years) with a primary ED discharge diagnosis of headache. We classified headache medications by pharmacological group: opioids, butalbital, ergot alkaloids/triptans, acetaminophen/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiemetics, diphenhydramine, corticosteroids, and intravenous fluids. To obtain reliable estimates, we aggregated data into three time periods: 2007–2010, 2011–2014, and 2015–2018. Using multivariable logistic regression, we examined medication, neuroimaging, and outpatient referral trends, separately. Among headache-related ED visits, opioid use decreased from 54.1% in 2007–2010 to 28.3% in 2015–2018 (Ptrend < 0.001). There were statistically significant increasing trends in acetaminophen/NSAIDs, diphenhydramine, and corticosteroids use (all Ptrend < 0.001). Changes in butalbital (6.4%), ergot alkaloid/triptan (4.7%), antiemetic (59.2% in 2015–2018), and neuroimaging (37.3%) use over time were insignificant. Headache-related ED visits with outpatient referral for follow-up increased slightly from 73.3% in 2007–2010 to 79.7% in 2015–2018 (Ptrend = 0.02). Reflecting evidence-based guideline recommendations for headache management, opioid use substantially decreased from 2007 to 2018 among US headache-related ED visits. Future studies are warranted to identify strategies to promote evidence-based treatment for headaches (e.g., sumatriptan, dexamethasone) and appropriate outpatient referral and reduce unnecessary neuroimaging orders in EDs.
Anatomical and Neuromuscular Factors Associated to Non-Contact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Authors: Dauty Marc , Crenn Vincent , Louguet Bastien , Grondin Jérôme , Menu Pierre , Fouasson-Chailloux Alban
Published: March 2022

The majority of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries occur during non-contact mechanisms. Knowledge of the risk factors would be relevant to help prevent athletes’ injuries. We aimed to study risk factors associated with non-contact ACL injuries in a population of athletes after ACL reconstruction. From a cohort of 307 athletes, two populations were compared according to the non-contact or contact mechanism of ACL injury. Gender, age and body mass index (BMI) were reported. Passive knee alignment (valgus and extension), knee laxity (KT-1000 test), and isokinetic knee strength were measured on the non-injured limb. The relationship between these factors and the non-contact sport mechanism was established with models using logistic regression analysis for the population and after selection of gender and cut-offs of age, BMI and knee laxity calculated from Receiver Operating Characteristics curve area and Youden index. Age, BMI, antero-posterior laxity, isokinetic knee strength, passive knee valgus and passive knee extension were associated with non-contact ACL injury. According to the multivariate model, a non-contact ACL injury was associated with non-modifiable factors, age (OR: 1.05; p = 0.001), passive knee extension (OR: 1.14; p = 0.001), and with one modifiable factor (Hamstring strength: OR: 0.27; p = 0.01). For women, only passive knee valgus was reported (OR: 1.27; p = 0.01). Age, passive knee extension and weak Hamstring strength were associated with a non-contact ACL injury. Hamstring strengthening could be proposed to prevent ACL injury in young male athletes or in case of knee laxity.
Fabrication of Flexible Multi-Cavity Bio-Inspired Adhesive Unit Using Laminated Mold Pouring
Authors: Zhang Linghao , Wang Liuwei , Weng Zhiyuan , Yuan Qingsong , Ji Keju , Wang Zhouyi
Published: March 2022

To meet the requirements for the flexible end-effectors of industrial grippers and climbing robots, inspired by the animal attachment mechanism, a bio-inspired adhesive unit (Bio-AU) was designed. Due to its fluid-driven operating characteristics and multi-level adhesive structure, its fabrication and molding is challenging, including the assembly and molding of complex cavities with good pressure-bearing capability, mechanical properties of multi-level materials with variable stiffness, etc. In this study, based on the lamination mold casting process, the “simultaneous molding and assembly” method was established, which can be applied to form and assemble complex cavity parts simultaneously. Moreover, the dovetail tenon-and-mortise parting structures were analyzed and designed. Furthermore, the adhesion between the parting surfaces can be improved using plasma surface treatment technology. By applying the above methods, the assembly accuracy and pressure-bearing capability of the complex flexible cavities are improved, which reduces the individual differences between finished products. Additionally, the maximum pressure-bearing value of the sample was 83 kPa, which is 1.75 times that before optimization. the adhesive structure with different stiffness components was fabricated at low cost using silicon rubber substrates with different properties, which met the requirements of multi-level material with variable stiffness of the Bio-AU. The bending angle of the optimized molding product was about 50.9° at 80 kPa, which is significantly larger than the 24.6° of the lighting-cured product. This indicates that the optimized lamination mold casting process has a strong inclusion of materials, which improves the deformation capacity and self-adaptability of Bio-AUs and overcomes the defects of 3D printing technology in the formation of large, flexible, and controllable-stiffness structures. In this study, the effective fabrication of flexible multilayer adhesive structures was accomplished, and technical support for the development of Bio-AUs was provided, which met the requirements of bionic climbing robots and industrial adhesive grippers for end-effectors.
Self-Adaptive Constrained Multi-Objective Differential Evolution Algorithm Based on the State–Action–Reward–State–Action Method
Authors: Liu Qingqing , Cui Caixia , Fan Qinqin
Published: March 2022

The performance of constrained multi-objective differential evolution algorithms (CMOEAs) is mainly determined by constraint handling techniques (CHTs) and their generation strategies. To realize the adaptive adjustment of CHTs and generation strategies, an adaptive constrained multi-objective differential evolution algorithm based on the state–action–reward–state–action (SARSA) approach (ACMODE) is introduced in the current study. In the proposed algorithm, the suitable CHT and the appropriate generation strategy can be automatically selected via a SARSA method. The performance of the proposed algorithm is compared with four other famous CMOEAs on five test suites. Experimental results show that the overall performance of the ACMODE is the best among all competitors, and the proposed algorithm is capable of selecting an appropriate CHT and a suitable generation strategy to solve a particular type of constrained multi-objective optimization problems.
Surveillance of Adenovirus and Norovirus Contaminants in the Water and Shellfish of Major Oyster Breeding Farms and Fishing Ports in Taiwan
Authors: Nagarajan Viji , Chen Jung-Sheng , Hsu Gwo-Jong , Chen Hsin-Pao , Chao Hung-Chun , Huang Shih-Wei , Tsai I-Sen , Hsu Bing-Mu
Published: March 2022

The enteric viruses, including adenovirus (AdVs) and norovirus (NoVs), in shellfish is a significant food safety risk. This study investigated the prevalence, seasonal occurrence, genetic diversity, and quantification of AdVs and NoVs in the water and cultured shellfish samples at the four major coastal oyster breeding farms (COBF), five major fishing ports (FP), and their markets in Taiwan. The AdVs/NoVs in the water and shellfish samples were isolated by the membrane filtration and direct elution methods. The RNA of NoVs was reverse-transcribed into complementary DNA through reverse transcription reaction. Further NoVs and AdVs were detected using nested PCR. A higher detection rate was recorded in the low-temperature period than high-temperature. Detection difference was noted between nested PCR and qPCR outcomes for AdVs. The total detection rate of AdVs was higher in the water samples (COBF-40.6%, FP 20%) than the shellfish samples (COBF-11.7% and FP 6.3%). The AdVs load in the water and shellfish samples ranged from 1.23 × 103 to 1.00 × 106 copies/L and 3.57 × 103 to 4.27 × 104 copies/100g, respectively. The total detection of NoVs was highest in the water samples of the FP and their market shellfish samples (11.1% and 3.2%, respectively). Genotyping and phylogenetic analysis were identified as the prevalent AdVs and NoVs genotypes in the water and shellfish samples: A species HAdVs serotype 12; F species HAdVs serotype 41; and C species PAdVs serotype 5 (NoVs GI.2, GI.3 and GII.2). No significant differences were observed between the presence of AdVs, and all of the water quality parameters evaluated (heterotrophic plate count, water temperature, turbidity, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen). The virus contamination occurs mainly due to the direct discharge of domestic sewage, livestock farm, and fishing market wastewater into the coastal environment. Thus, this study suggested framing better estuarine management to prevent AdVs/NoVs transmission in water and cultured/distributed shellfish.
Japanese Encephalitis Virus Interaction with Mosquitoes: A Review of Vector Competence, Vector Capacity and Mosquito Immunity
Authors: Van den Eynde Claudia , Sohier Charlotte , Matthijs Severine , De Regge Nick
Published: March 2022

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic flavivirus and a major cause of human viral encephalitis in Asia. We provide an overview of the knowledge on vector competence, vector capacity, and immunity of mosquitoes in relation to JEV. JEV has so far been detected in more than 30 mosquito species. This does not necessarily mean that these species contribute to JEV transmission under field conditions. Therefore, vector capacity, which considers vector competence, as well as environmental, behavioral, cellular, and biochemical variables, needs to be taken into account. Currently, 17 species can be considered as confirmed vectors for JEV and 10 other species as potential vectors. Culex tritaeniorhynchus and Culex annulirostris are considered primary JEV vectors in endemic regions. Culex pipiens and Aedes japonicus could be considered as potentially important vectors in the case of JEV introduction in new regions. Vector competence is determined by various factors, including vector immunity. The available knowledge on physical and physiological barriers, molecular pathways, antimicrobial peptides, and microbiome is discussed in detail. This review highlights that much remains to be studied about vector immunity against JEV in order to identify novel strategies to reduce JEV transmission by mosquitoes.
Three Birds, One Excipient: Development of an Improved pH, Isotonic, and Buffered Ketamine Formulation for Subcutaneous Injection
Authors: Wallach Jason , Gamrat James , Jauhola-Straight Rebekah , Becker Jeffrey , Eckrich Thomas
Published: March 2022

Subcutaneous (SC) ketamine has been found to be effective in pain management, though reports of injection site irritation and sterile abscesses exist with currently available ketamine HCl formulations. Such adverse SC reactions are commonly associated with low pH, high osmolality and/or high injection volumes. An optimal SC formulation of ketamine would thus have a pH and osmolality close to physiological levels, without compromising on concentration and, thus, injection volume. Such a formulation should also be buffered to maintain the pH at the acceptable level for extended time periods. As many of these physicochemical properties are interrelated, achieving these aims represented a significant challenge in formulation development. We describe the development of a novel Captisol®-based formulation strategy to achieve an elevated pH, isosmotic and buffered formulation of ketamine (hence, three birds, one excipient) without compromising on concentration. This strategy has the potential to be readily adapted to other amine-based APIs.
Topical Probiotics: More Than a Skin Deep
Authors: Habeebuddin Mohammed , Karnati Ranjith Kumar , Shiroorkar Predeepkumar Narayanappa , Nagaraja Sreeharsha , Asdaq Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin , Khalid Anwer Md. , Fattepur Santosh
Published: March 2022

Skin, an exterior interface of the human body is home to commensal microbiota and also acts a physical barrier that protects from invasion of foreign pathogenic microorganisms. In recent years, interest has significantly expanded beyond the gut microbiome to include the skin microbiome and its influence in managing several skin disorders. Probiotics play a major role in maintaining human health and disease prevention. Topical probiotics have demonstrated beneficial effects for the treatment of certain inflammatory skin diseases such as acne, rosacea, psoriasis etc., and also found to have a promising role in wound healing. In this review, we discuss recent insights into applications of topical probiotics and their influence on health and diseases of the skin. Patents, commercially available topical probiotics, and novel probiotic impregnated fabrics have been emphasized. A thorough understanding of the relationship between probiotics and the skin microbiome is important for designing novel therapeutic approaches in using topical probiotics.
Chemical Composition and Effect against Skin Alterations of Bioactive Extracts Obtained by the Hydrodistillation of Eucalyptus globulus Leaves
Authors: Moreira Patrícia , Sousa Fábio Jesus , Matos Patrícia , Brites Gonçalo Sousa , Gonçalves Maria José , Cavaleiro Carlos , Figueirinha Artur , Salgueiro Lígia , Batista Maria Teresa , Branco Pedro Costa , Cruz Maria Teresa , Pereira Cláudia Fragão
Published: March 2022

Eucalyptus globulus is planted extensively for pulp, paper and wood production. Although bioactive compounds obtained from its biomass are used as cosmetics ingredients, the skin effects were not yet fully explored. In order to fill this gap, this work aimed to study the protective effect against skin damage provided by the essential oil (EO) obtained from the hydrodistillation of Eucalyptus globulus leaves, and by an extract obtained from the hydrodistillation residual water (HRW). The major compound identified in the EO was 1,8-Cineole, and the phenolic acids in the HRW included gallic acid as the main phenolic constituent. Moreover, non-toxic EO and HRW concentrations were shown to have anti-aging skin effects in vitro, decreasing age-related senescence markers, namely β-galactosidase and matrix metalloproteinases activation, as well as collagen type 1 upregulation. In addition, EO and HRW were found to exhibit depigmenting effects by inhibiting tyrosinase and melanin production, along with potent anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, the absence of skin irritation and sensitization in cells exposed to EO and HRW revealed the safety of both extracts for topical use. Taken together, these results highlight the beneficial effects of extracts obtained from Eucalyptus globulus biomass for skin aesthetic and health purposes, which should be explored deeply for the prediction of future pharmaceutical and dermocosmetics industrial applications.
Prescriptions for the Control of a Clonal Invasive Species Using Demographic Models
Authors: Arroyo-Cosultchi Gabriel , Golubov Jordan , Solórzano Jonathan V. , Mandujano Maria C.
Published: March 2022

Until recently, little research has focused on determination of the population dynamics of invasive species and evaluating their genetic variation. Consequently, not much is known of what drives clonal invasive species and their demography. Here, we describe the population dynamics of Kalanchoe delagoensis (Crassulaceae), considered invasive to several countries. We quantified the demography of a population in central Mexico using integral projection models (IPM) in a population that reproduced asexually exclusively through plantlets. The effect of clonal recruitment on population growth rate (λ) was evaluated by changing plantlet survival and simulating management scenarios that used previous data of watering and seven experimental herbicide treatments. The finite rate of population increase indicated that this Kalanchoe delagoensis population is growing (above one) and with water availability, growth rates will only accelerate. The IPM showed that plantlet survival and recruitment were the most critical steps in the cycle for the population, and simulations of different management scenarios showed that reducing plantlet survival significantly decreased λ only in two out of the seven herbicides used.
Impact of Nanomaterials on the Regulation of Gene Expression and Metabolomics of Plants under Salt Stress
Authors: Abideen Zainul , Hanif Maria , Munir Neelma , Nielsen Brent L.
Published: March 2022

Plant salinity resistance results from a combination of responses at the physiological, molecular, cellular, and metabolic levels. This article focuses on plant stress tolerance mechanisms for controlling ion homeostasis, stress signaling, hormone metabolism, anti-oxidative enzymes, and osmotic balance after nanoparticle applications. Nanoparticles are used as an emerging tool to stimulate specific biochemical reactions related to plant ecophysiological output because of their small size, increased surface area and absorption rate, efficient catalysis of reactions, and adequate reactive sites. Regulated ecophysiological control in saline environments could play a crucial role in plant growth promotion and survival of plants under suboptimal conditions. Plant biologists are seeking to develop a broad profile of genes and proteins that contribute to plant salt resistance. These plant metabolic profiles can be developed due to advancements in genomic, proteomic, metabolomic, and transcriptomic techniques. In order to quantify plant stress responses, transmembrane ion transport, sensors and receptors in signaling transduction, and metabolites involved in the energy supply require thorough study. In addition, more research is needed on the plant salinity stress response based on molecular interactions in response to nanoparticle treatment. The application of nanoparticles as an aspect of genetic engineering for the generation of salt-tolerant plants is a promising area of research. This review article addresses the use of nanoparticles in plant breeding and genetic engineering techniques to develop salt-tolerant crops.
Physical, Thermal Transport, and Compressive Properties of Epoxy Composite Filled with Graphitic- and Ceramic-Based Thermally Conductive Nanofillers
Authors: Samsudin Siti Salmi , Abdul Majid Mohd Shukry , Mohd Jamir Mohd Ridzuan , Osman Azlin Fazlina , Jaafar Mariatti , Alshahrani Hassan A.
Published: March 2022

Epoxy polymer composites embedded with thermally conductive nanofillers play an important role in the thermal management of polymer microelectronic packages, since they can provide thermal conduction properties with electrically insulating properties. An epoxy composite system filled with graphitic-based fillers; multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and ceramic-based filler; silicon carbide nanoparticles (SiCs) was investigated as a form of thermal-effective reinforcement for epoxy matrices. The epoxy composites were fabricated using a simple fabrication method, which included ultrasonication and planetary centrifugal mixing. The effect of graphite-based and ceramic-based fillers on the thermal conductivity was measured by the transient plane source method, while the glass transition temperature of the fully cured samples was studied by differential scanning calorimetry. Thermal gravimetric analysis was adopted to study the thermal stability of the samples, and the compressive properties of different filler loadings (1–5 vol.%) were also discussed. The glass temperatures and thermal stabilities of the epoxy system were increased when incorporated with the graphite- and ceramic-based fillers. These results can be correlated with the thermal conductivity of the samples, which was found to increase with the increase in the filler loadings, except for the epoxy/SiCs composites. The thermal conductivity of the composites increased to 0.4 W/mK with 5 vol.% of MWCNTs, which is a 100% improvement over pure epoxy. The GNPs, SiCs, and MWCNTs showed uniform dispersion in the epoxy matrix and well-established thermally conductive pathways.
Characterization of a Radiofluorogenic Polymer for Low-Energy Electron Beam Penetration Depth Visualization
Authors: Skowyra Magdalena Maria , Ankjærgaard Christina , Yu Liyun , Lindvold Lars René , Skov Anne Ladegaard , Miller Arne
Published: March 2022

Low-energy (80–300 keV) electron beam accelerators are gaining in importance in the radiation processing industry due to their ease of use and wide range of applications (e.g. product surface sterilizations or polymer curing and cross-linking). Due to their very low penetration depth (tens to hundreds of microns), currently used film dosimeters exhibit dose gradients over their thickness and do not resolve the dose response in the first microns of the irradiated material. Hence, the surface dose, defined as the dose in the first micron Dµ, cannot be measured directly. This study presents a polymer material as a dosimeter candidate for high-dose low-energy electron beam irradiations. The readout of the dose-dependent fluorescence intensity, originating from a pararosaniline dye reaction when irradiated, is measured using fluorescence microscopy. So far, no in-depth characterization of the material has been performed, leaving the stability and fluorescence properties of the material not fully optimized. We describe the improvements in polymer composition and the fabrication method, and characterize the material properties in terms of the thermal stability, glass transition temperature, refractive index, hardness, rheological behavior, and water affinity. All of these create a complex set of requirements a polymer needs to fulfill to become an effective dosimeter when measuring using confocal microscopy. The fluorescence readout procedure will be addressed in further studies.
Ductility Estimation for Flexural Concrete Beams Longitudinally Reinforced with Hybrid FRP–Steel Bars
Authors: Thamrin Rendy , Zaidir Zaidir , Iwanda Devitasari
Published: March 2022

An experimental study was conducted to evaluate the ductility of reinforced concrete beams longitudinally reinforced with hybrid Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP)–steel bars. The specimens were fourteen reinforced concrete beams with and without hybrid reinforcement. The test variables were bar positions, ratio of longitudinal reinforcement, and type of FRP. The beams were loaded until failure using a four-point bending test. The performance of the tested beams was observed using the load–deflection curve obtained from the test. Numerical analysis using the fiber element model was carried out to examine the growth of neutral axis due to the effects of the test variables. The neutral axis curves were then used to estimate the neutral axis angles and displacement indices. The test results showed that the reinforcement position did not significantly affect the flexural capacity of beams with a higher ratio of hybrid reinforcement, but was quite significant in beams with a lower ratio of hybrid reinforcement. It was observed from the test that the flexural capacity of beams with hybrid reinforcement was 15–45% higher than that of beams with conventional steel bars, depending on bar positions and the ratio of longitudinal reinforcement. The ductility of beams with hybrid reinforcement was significantly increased compared to that of beams with FRP, but decreased as the hybrid reinforcement ratio (Af/As) increased. This study also showed that the developed numerical model could predict the flexural behavior of beams with hybrid reinforcement with reasonable accuracy. Based on the test results, parametric analysis, and data obtained from the literature, the use of the neutral axis angle and displacement index value to evaluate the ductility of cross-sections with hybrid reinforcement is proposed.
Oxygen Gas Sensing Using a Hydrogel-Based Organic Electrochemical Transistor for Work Safety Applications
Authors: Decataldo Francesco , Bonafè Filippo , Mariani Federica , Serafini Martina , Tessarolo Marta , Gualandi Isacco , Scavetta Erika , Fraboni Beatrice
Published: March 2022

Oxygen depletion in confined spaces represents one of the most serious and underestimated dangers for workers. Despite the existence of several commercially available and widely used gas oxygen sensors, injuries and deaths from reduced oxygen levels are still more common than for other hazardous gases. Here, we present hydrogel-based organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) made with the conducting polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) as wearable and real-time oxygen gas sensors. After comparing OECT performances using liquid and hydrogel electrolytes, we identified the best PEDOT:PSS active layer and hydrogel coating (30 µm) combination for sensing oxygen in the concentration range of 13–21% (v/v), critical for work safety applications. The fast O2 solubilization in the hydrogel allowed for gaseous oxygen transduction in an electrical signal thanks to the electrocatalytic activity of PEDOT:PSS, while OECT architecture amplified the response (gain ~ 104). OECTs proved to have comparable sensitivities if fabricated on glass and thin plastic substrates, (−12.2 ± 0.6) and (−15.4 ± 0.4) µA/dec, respectively, with low power consumption (<40 µW). Sample bending does not influence the device response, demonstrating that our real-time conformable and lightweight sensor could be implemented as a wearable, noninvasive safety tool for operators working in potentially hazardous confined spaces.
Equalization Reserves for Reinsurance and Non-Life Undertakings in Switzerland
Authors: Breuer Anja , Staudt Yves
Published: March 2022

Equalization reserves is an insurance liability with features of own capital. By law, Swiss reinsurance and non-life undertakings must hold equalization reserves within their statutory accounts. Regarding Swiss solvency modeling, the equalization reserves are set to zero. Swiss reinsurance and non-life undertakings define the upper limit and the corresponding transfer rule to the equalization reserves; however, this information is not disclosed. The goal of the study is to find a relationship between the equalization reserves and the publicly available technical account items, applying a generalized additive model (GAM). Thereafter, we transform the continuous variables into discrete ones, and we apply a generalized linear model (GLM). The study is based on published data from 1997 to 2018, whereby we restate the implicitly published equalization reserves. For reinsurance undertakings, the GAM model captures the relationship better than the GLM one; for non-life undertakings, the GLM model performs better. For reinsurance undertakings, the equalization reserves depend on the equalization reserves of the previous year, on the calendar year, on the legal form, on the technical result, on the administration and commission costs and on other costs. For non-life undertakings, the equalization reserves depend on the net claims payments, on the equalization reserves of the previous year, on the net change in claims reserves without change in equalization reserves, on the calendar year and on the net earned premium. Furthermore, we look at the need for equalization reserves: do the undertakings accumulate and release the equalization reserves? Further, the impact of taxes on the equalization reserves is looked at. The concept of equalization reserves avoids the misuse of tax optimization. We conclude that the discussion about disclosure of equalization reserves will restart. In addition, the definition of the upper limit of the equalization reserves could be widened by linking the equalization reserves to the insurance/reserving risk from the capital modeling.
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Overconfidence Bias: The Case of Cyclical and Defensive Sectors
Authors: Azam Md Qamar , Hashmi Nazia Iqbal , Hawaldar Iqbal Thonse , Alam Md Shabbir , Baig Mirza Allim
Published: March 2022

This research paper analyses the impact of COVID-19 to investigate the overconfidence bias in 12 cyclical and defensive sectors in pre- and during COVID-19 periods using daily data from 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2020. The results of VAR show that in the pre COVID-19 phase overconfidence bias is more prevalent in all the cyclical sectors; in particular, MEDIA, METAL and REALTY have highly significant coefficients . In the defensive sectors, the VAR outcomes are not as strong as we expected, except for SERVICES. During the COVID-19 period, the investor shifted their focus to COVID-19-related opportunities, leading to a surge in the IT and PHARMA sectors. In both phases, METAL, MEDIA and REALTY exhibit overconfidence-driven stock trading behaviour. ENERGY is the only sector in both the phases that does not witness overconfidence bias.
A New Methodology for Bridge Inspections in Linear Infrastructures from Optical Images and HD Videos Obtained by UAV
Authors: Cano Miguel , Pastor José Luis , Tomás Roberto , Riquelme Adrián , Asensio José Luis
Published: March 2022

Many bridges and other structures worldwide present a lack of maintenance or a need for rehabilitation. The first step in the rehabilitation process is to perform a bridge inspection to know the bridge′s current state. Routine bridge inspections are usually based only on visual recognition. In this paper, a methodology for bridge inspections in communication routes using images acquired by unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flights is proposed. This provides access to the upper parts of the structure safely and without traffic disruptions. Then, a standardized and systematized novel image acquisition protocol is applied for data acquisition. Afterwards, the images are studied by civil engineers for damage identification and description. Then, specific structural inspection forms are completed using the acquired information. Recommendations about the need of new and more detailed inspections should be included at this stage when needed. The suggested methodology was tested on two railway bridges in France. Image acquisition of these structures was performed using an UAV for its ability to provide an expert assessment of the damage level. The main advantage of this method is that it makes it possible to safely accurately identify diverse damages in structures without the need for a specialised engineer to go to the site. Moreover, the videos can be watched by as many engineers as needed with no personal movement. The main objective of this work is to describe the systematized methodology for the development of bridge inspection tasks using a UAV system. According to this proposal, the in situ inspection by a specialised engineer is replaced by images and videos obtained from an UAV flight by a trained flight operator. To this aim, a systematized image/videos acquisition method is defined for the study of the morphology and typology of the structural elements of the inspected bridges. Additionally, specific inspection forms are proposed for every type of structural element. The recorded information will allow structural engineers to perform a postanalysis of the damage affecting the bridges and to evaluate the subsequent recommendations.
Tropical Cyclone Impact and Forest Resilience in the Southwestern Pacific
Authors: Delaporte Baptiste , Ibanez Thomas , Despinoy Marc , Mangeas Morgan , Menkes Christophe
Published: March 2022

Tropical cyclones (TCs) can have profound effects on the dynamics of forest vegetation that need to be better understood. Here, we analysed changes in forest vegetation induced by TCs using the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). We used an accurate historical database of TC tracks and intensities, together with the Willoughby cyclone model to reconstruct the 2D surface wind speed structure of TCs and analyse how TCs affect forest vegetation. We used segmented linear models to identify significant breakpoints in the relationship between the reconstructed maximum sustained wind speed (Wmax) and the observed changes in NDVI. We tested the hypothesis that the rate of change in damage caused by TCs to forest and recovery time would increase according to Wmax thresholds as defined in the widely used Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS). We showed that the most significant breakpoint was located at 50 m/s. This breakpoint corresponds to the transition between categories 2 and 3 TCs in the SSHWS. Below this breakpoint, damages caused to forest vegetation and the time needed to recover from these damages were negligable. We found a second breakpoint, with a sharp increase in damages for winds >75 m/s. This suggested that extremely intense tropical cyclones, which might be more frequent in the future, can cause extreme damages to forest vegetation. Nevertheless, we found high variation in the observed damages and time needed to recover for a given Wmax. Further studies are needed to integrate other factors that might affect the exposure and resistance to TCs as well as forests’ capacity to recover from these disturbances.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Cultivated Land Quality Integrated with Multi-Source Remote Sensing: A Case Study of Guangzhou, China
Authors: Duan Dingding , Sun Xiao , Liang Shefang , Sun Jing , Fan Lingling , Chen Hao , Xia Lang , Zhao Fen , Yang Wanqing , Yang Peng
Published: March 2022

Scientifically revealing the spatiotemporal patterns of cultivated land quality (CLQ) is crucial for increasing food production and achieving United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger. Although studies on the evaluation of CLQ have been conducted, an effective evaluation system that is suitable for the macro-regional scale has not yet been developed. In this study, we first defined the CLQ from four aspects: soil fertility, natural conditions, construction level, and cultivated land productivity. Then, eight indicators were selected by integrating multi-source remote sensing data to create a new CLQ evaluation system. We assessed the spatiotemporal patterns of CLQ in Guangzhou, China, from 2010 to 2018. In addition, we identified the main factors affecting the improvement of CLQ. The results showed that the CLQ continuously improved in Guangzhou from 2010 to 2018. The area of high-quality cultivated land increased by 13.7%, which was mainly distributed in the traditional agricultural areas in the northern and eastern regions of Guangzhou. The areas of medium- and low-quality cultivated land decreased by 8.1% and 5.6%, respectively, which were scattered throughout the whole study area. The soil fertility and high productivity capacity were the main obstacle factors that affected the improvement of CLQ. Simultaneously, the obstacle degree of stable productivity capacity gradually increased during the study period. Therefore, the targeted improvement measures could be put forward by applying biofertilizers, strengthening crop management and constructing well-facilitated farmland. The new CLQ evaluation system we proposed is particularly practical at the macro-regional scale, and the results provided targeted guidance for decision makers to improve CLQ and promote food security.
LSTNet: A Reference-Based Learning Spectral Transformer Network for Spectral Super-Resolution
Authors: Yuan Debao , Wu Ling , Jiang Huinan , Zhang Bingrui , Li Jian
Published: March 2022

Hyperspectral images (HSIs) are data cubes containing rich spectral information, making them beneficial to many Earth observation missions. However, due to the limitations of the associated imaging systems and their sensors, such as the swath width and revisit period, hyperspectral imagery over a large coverage area cannot be acquired in a short amount of time. Spectral super-resolution (SSR) is a method that involves learning the relationship between a multispectral image (MSI) and an HSI, based on the overlap region, followed by reconstruction of the HSI by making full use of the large swath width of the MSI, thereby improving its coverage. Much research has been conducted recently to address this issue, but most existing methods mainly learn the prior spectral information from training data, lacking constraints on the resulting spectral fidelity. To address this problem, a novel learning spectral transformer network (LSTNet) is proposed in this paper, utilizing a reference-based learning strategy to transfer the spectral structure knowledge of a reference HSI to create a reasonable reconstruction spectrum. More specifically, a spectral transformer module (STM) and a spectral reconstruction module (SRM) are designed, in order to exploit the prior and reference spectral information. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method has the ability to produce high-fidelity reconstructed spectra.