bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tetranuclear Copper(I) and Silver(I) Pyrazolate Adducts with 1,1′-Dimethyl-2,2’-bibenzimidazole: Influence of Structure on Photophysics
Authors: Yakovlev Gleb B. , Titov Aleksei A. , Smol’yakov Alexander F. , Chernyadyev Andrey Yu. , Filippov Oleg A. , Shubina Elena S.
Published: January 2023

A reaction of a cyclic trinuclear copper(I) or silver(I) pyrazolate complex ([MPz]3, M = Cu, Ag) with 1,1′-dimethyl-2,2’-bibenzimidazole (L) leads to the formation of tetranuclear adducts decorated by one or two molecules of a diimine ligand, depending on the amount of the ligand added (0.75 or 1.5 equivalents). The coordination of two L molecules stabilizes the formation of a practically idealized tetrahedral four-metal core in the case of a copper-containing complex and a distorted tetrahedron in the case of a Ag analog. In contrast, complexes containing one molecule of diimine possess two types of metals, two- and three-coordinated, forming the significantly distorted central M4 cores. The diimine ligands are twisted in these complexes with dihedral angles of ca. 50–60°. A TD-DFT analysis demonstrated the preference of a triplet state for the twisted 1,1′-dimethyl-2,2’-bibenzimidazole and a singlet state for the planar geometry. All obtained complexes demonstrated, in a solution, the blue fluorescence of the ligand-centered (LC) nature typical for free diimine. In contrast, a temperature decrease to 77 K stabilized the structure close to that observed in the solid state and activated the triplet states, leading to green phosphorescence at ca. 500 nm. The silver-containing complex Ag4Pz4L exhibited dual emission from both the singlet and triplet states, even at room temperature.
Overview of the Justicia Genus: Insights into Its Chemical Diversity and Biological Potential
Authors: Carneiro Marcos Rodrigo Beltrão , Sallum Lóide Oliveira , Martins José Luís Rodrigues , Peixoto Josana de Castro , Napolitano Hamilton Barbosa , Rosseto Lucimar Pinheiro
Published: January 2023

The genus Justicia has more than 600 species distributed in both hemispheres, in the tropics and temperate regions, and it is used in the treatment of numerous pathologies. This study presents a review of the biological activities of plant extracts and isolated chemical constituents of Justicia (ACANTHACEAE), identified in the period from May 2011 to August 2022. We analyzed over 176 articles with various biological activities and chemical compound descriptions present in the 29 species of Justicia. These have a variety of applications, such as antioxidant and antimicrobial, with alkaloids and flavonoids (e.g., naringenin) the most frequently identified secondary metabolites. The most observed species were Justicia gendarussa Burm., Justicia procumbens L., Justicia adhatoda L., Justicia spicigera Schltdl, and Justicia pectoralis Jacq. The frontier molecular orbitals carried out using density functional theory (M062X and basis set 6-311++G(d,p) indicate reactive sites for naringenin compound and a chemical reaction on phytomedicine activity. The energy gap (206.99 kcal/mol) and dimer solid state packing point to chemical stability. Due to the wide variety of pharmacological uses of these species, this review points toward the development of new phytomedicines.
Establishment of LC-MS/MS Method for Determination of GMDTC in Rat Plasma and Its Application in Preclinical Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Hu Wei , Zhong Zhi-Yong , Gao Yu-Ting , Ren Xue-Feng , Liu Hai-Yang , Tang Xiao-Jiang
Published: January 2023

Sodium (S)-2-(dithiocarboxylato((2S,3R,4R,5R)-2,3,4,5,6-pentahydroxyhexyl)amino)-4(methylthio)butanoate (GMDTC) is the first compound to use cadmium repellent as an indication. In this paper, we established and validated a bioanalytical method for the determination of GMDTC in rat plasma, and used it to determine the drug concentrations in the plasma of rats after intravenous dosing in different genders and dosages. After pretreating the plasma samples with an acetonitrile–water–ammonia solution (70:30:1.25, v/v/v), liquid chromatographic separations were efficiently achieved with a XBridge C18 column using a 5 min gradient system of aqueous ammonium bicarbonate and 95% acetonitrile–water solution (95:5, v/v) as the eluent. The GMDTC and metolazone (internal standard, IS) detection were carried out using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS), monitored at m/z 390.06–324.1 (for the GMDTC, tR: 2.03 min) and m/z 366.0–259.2 (for IS, tR: 3.88 min). The GMDTC was stable under various testing conditions, and this analytical method conforms to the verification standard of biological analysis methods. The half-life (t1/2) was determined to be 0.54–0.65 h for the intravenous, mean distribution volume and clearances were 1.08–2.08 L/kg and 1–3 L/h/kg, respectively. The AUC0-t and AUC0-∞ found after increasing the dosage exhibited a linear relationship with the administered dose. There were no statistically significant differences in the values obtained for the different genders at dosages of 50, 100 and 250 mg/kg, respectively (p > 0.05). This is the first report of a bioanalytical method to quantify GMDTC in rat plasma using LC–MS/MS, which provides useful information for the study of its pharmacological effects and clinical applications.
Photo-Fenton and TiO2 Photocatalytic Inactivation of Model Microorganisms under UV-A; Comparative Efficacy and Optimization
Authors: Kanata Eirini , Paspaltsis Ioannis , Sotiriadis Sotiris , Berberidou Chrysanthi , Tsoumachidou Sophia , Dafou Dimitra , Xanthopoulos Konstantinos , Arsenakis Minas , Arsenakis Athanasios , Poulios Ioannis , Sklaviadis Theodoros
Published: January 2023

Photocatalytic inactivation of pathogens in aqueous waste is gaining increasing attention. Several homogeneous and heterogeneous photocatalytic protocols exist using the Fenton’s reagent and TiO2, respectively. A comprehensive study of homogeneous and heterogeneous photocatalysis on a range of microorganisms will significantly establish the most efficient method. Here, we report a comparative study of TiO2- and Fe+3-based photocatalytic inactivation under UV-A of diverse microorganisms, including Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria, bacterial spores (Bacillus stearothermophilus spores) and viruses (MS2). We also present data on the optimization of TiO2 photocatalysis, including optimal catalyst concentration and H2O2 supplementation. Our results indicate that both photo-Fenton and TiO2 could be successfully applied for the management of microbial loads in liquids. Efficient microorganism inactivation is achieved with homogeneous photocatalysis (7 mg/L Fe+3, 100 mg/L H2O2, UV-A) in a shorter processing time compared to heterogeneous photocatalysis (0.5 g/L TiO2, UV-A), whereas similar or shorter processing is required when heterogenous photocatalysis is performed using microorganism-specific optimized TiO2 concentrations and H2O2 supplementation (100 mg/L); higher H2O2 concentrations further enhance the heterogenous photocatalytic inactivation efficiency. Our study provides a template protocol for the design and further application for large-scale photocatalytic approaches to inactivate pathogens in liquid biomedical waste.
Screening of Palladium/Charcoal Catalysts for Hydrogenation of Diene Carboxylates with Isolated-Rings (Hetero)aliphatic Scaffold
Authors: Subotin Vladyslav V. , Vashchenko Bohdan V. , Asaula Vitalii M. , Verner Eduard V. , Ivanytsya Mykyta O. , Shvets Oleksiy , Ostapchuk Eugeniy N. , Grygorenko Oleksandr O. , Ryabukhin Sergey V. , Volochnyuk Dmitriy M. , Kolotilov Sergey V.
Published: January 2023

A series of seven palladium-containing composites, i.e., four Pd/C and three Pd(OH)2/C (Pearlman’s catalysts), was prepared using modified common approaches to deposition of Pd or hydrated PdO on charcoal. All the composites were tested in the catalytic hydrogenation of diene carboxylates with the isolated-ring scaffold, e.g., 5,6-dihydropyridine-1(2H)-carboxylates with 2-(alkoxycarbonyl)cyclopent-1-en-1-yl and hex-1-en-1-yl substituents at the C(4)-position. The performance of the composites was also studied via the hydrogenation of quinoline as a model reaction. The composites were characterized by transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM and SEM), powder X-ray diffraction, and low-temperature N2 adsorption. It was found that the composites containing Pd nanoparticles (NPs) of 5–40 nm size were the most efficient catalysts for the hydrogenation of dienes, providing the reduced products with up to 90% yields at p(H2) = 100 atm, T = 30 °C for 24 h. The method of Pd NPs formation had more effect on the catalyst performance than the size of the NPs. The catalytic performance of Pearlman’s catalysts (Pd(OH)2/C) in the hydrogenation of dienes was comparable to or lower than the performance of the Pd/C systems, though the Pearlman’s catalysts were more efficient in the hydrogenation of quinoline.
The Enantioselective Potential of NicoShell and TeicoShell Columns for Basic Pharmaceuticals and Forensic Drugs in Sub/Supercritical Fluid Chromatography
Authors: Folprechtová Denisa , Schmid Martin G. , Armstrong Daniel W. , Kalíková Květa
Published: January 2023

The enantioselective potential of two macrocyclic glycopeptide-based chiral stationary phases for analysis of 28 structurally diverse biologically active compounds such as derivatives of pyrovalerone, ketamine, cathinone, and other representatives of psychostimulants and antidepressants was evaluated in sub/supercritical fluid chromatography. The chiral selectors immobilized on 2.7 μm superficially porous particles were teicoplanin (TeicoShell column) and modified macrocyclic glycopeptide (NicoShell column). The influence of the organic modifier and different mobile phase additives on the retention and enantioresolution were investigated. The obtained results confirmed that the mobile phase additives, especially water as a single additive or in combination with basic and acidic additives, improve peak shape and enhance enantioresolution. In addition, the effect of temperature was evaluated to optimize the enantioseparation process. Both columns exhibited comparable enantioselectivity, approximately 90% of the compounds tested were enantioseparated, and 30% out of them were baseline enantioresolved under the tested conditions. The complementary enantioselectivity of the macrocyclic glycopeptide-based chiral stationary phases was emphasized. This work can be useful for the method development for the enantioseparation of basic biologically active compounds of interest.
PCL/Gelatin/Graphene Oxide Electrospun Nanofibers: Effect of Surface Functionalization on In Vitro and Antibacterial Response
Authors: Hamdan Nazirah , Khodir Wan Khartini Wan Abdul , Hamid Shafida Abd , Nasir Mohd Hamzah Mohd , Hamzah Ahmad Sazali , Cruz-Maya Iriczalli , Guarino Vincenzo
Published: January 2023

The emergence of resistance to pathogenic bacteria has resulted from the misuse of antibiotics used in wound treatment. Therefore, nanomaterial-based agents can be used to overcome these limitations. In this study, polycaprolactone (PCL)/gelatin/graphene oxide electrospun nanofibers (PGO) are functionalized via plasma treatment with the monomeric groups diallylamine (PGO-M1), acrylic acid (PGO-M2), and tert-butyl acrylate (PGO-M3) to enhance the action against bacteria cells. The surface functionalization influences the morphology, surface wettability, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of PGO nanofibers. PGO-M1 and PGO-M2 exhibit good antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, whereas PGO-M3 tends to reduce their antibacterial properties compared to PGO nanofibers. The highest proportion of dead bacteria cells is found on the surface of hydrophilic PGO-M1, whereas live cells are colonized on the surface of hydrophobic PGO-M3. Likewise, PGO-M1 shows a good interaction with L929, which is confirmed by the high levels of adhesion and proliferation with respect to the control. All the results confirm that surface functionalization can be strategically used as a tool to engineer PGO nanofibers with controlled antibacterial properties for the fabrication of highly versatile devices suitable for different applications (e.g., health, environmental pollution).
The Role of Diet in Tinnitus Onset: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study from Italy
Authors: Jarach Carlotta Micaela , Lugo Alessandra , Garavello Werner , van den Brandt Piet A. , Odone Anna , Cederroth Christopher R. , Bosetti Cristina , Gallus Silvano
Published: January 2023

Knowledge on the role of diet in tinnitus onset is mostly based on few cross-sectional studies. In 2016–2019 we conducted a hospital-based case-control study in northern Italy on 185 incident idiopathic tinnitus cases and 198 controls, providing data on dietary habits through a 37-item food-frequency questionnaire. Odds ratios (OR) for tinnitus risk were derived through unconditional multiple logistic regression models. Moderate-to-high vs. low intake of caffeine (OR, 0.49; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.24–0.99) and butter (OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.23–0.93), and high vs. low intake of poultry (OR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.23–0.81), prosciutto (OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.23–0.85), and legumes (OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.28–0.92) were inversely associated with tinnitus onset. Other food items, including cereals, red meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit did not show any statistically significant relationship. The variety of food consumed decreased the risk of tinnitus (OR for at least 20 vs. less than 16 different food items, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.24–0.90). Our findings highlight the importance of diet in tinnitus onset and confirm a potential inverse association of protein-rich food and caffeine on the incidence of tinnitus. Confirmation of our findings in longitudinal studies is necessary before proving any diet recommendations for tinnitus prevention.
Protocatechuic Acid Prevents Some of the Memory-Related Behavioural and Neurotransmitter Changes in a Pyrithiamine-Induced Thiamine Deficiency Model of Wernicke–Korsakoff Syndrome in Rats
Authors: Krzysztoforska Kinga , Piechal Agnieszka , Wojnar Ewa , Blecharz-Klin Kamilla , Pyrzanowska Justyna , Joniec-Maciejak Ilona , Krzysztoforski Jan , Widy-Tyszkiewicz Ewa
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of protocatechuic acid (PCA) at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg on the development of unfavourable changes in cognitive processes in a pyrithiamine-induced thiamine deficiency (PTD) model of the Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) in rats. The effects of PCA were assessed at the behavioural and biochemical levels. Behavioural analysis was conducted using the Foot Fault test (FF), Bar test, Open Field test, Novel Object Recognition test (NOR), Hole–Board test and Morris Water Maze test (MWM). Biochemical analysis consisting of determination of concentration and turnover of neurotransmitters in selected structures of the rat CNS was carried out using high-performance liquid chromatography. PTD caused catalepsy (Bar test) and significantly impaired motor functions, leading to increased ladder crossing time and multiplied errors due to foot misplacement (FF). Rats with experimentally induced WKS showed impaired consolidation and recall of spatial reference memory in the MWM test, while episodic memory related to object recognition in the NOR was unimpaired. Compared to the control group, rats with WKS showed reduced serotonin levels in the prefrontal cortex and changes in dopamine and/or norepinephrine metabolites in the prefrontal cortex, medulla oblongata and spinal cord. PTD was also found to affect alanine, serine, glutamate, and threonine levels in certain areas of the rat brain. PCA alleviated PTD-induced cataleptic symptoms in rats, also improving their performance in the Foot Fault test. In the MWM, PCA at 50 and 100 mg/kg b.w. improved memory consolidation and the ability to retrieve acquired information in rats, thereby preventing unfavourable changes caused by PTD. PCA at both tested doses was also shown to have a beneficial effect on normalising PTD-disrupted alanine and glutamate concentrations in the medulla oblongata. These findings demonstrate that certain cognitive deficits in spatial memory and abnormalities in neurotransmitter levels persist in rats that have experienced an acute episode of PTD, despite restoration of thiamine supply and long-term recovery. PCA supplementation largely had a preventive effect on the development of these deficits, to some extent also normalising neurotransmitter concentrations in the brain.
The m6A Reader YTHDF1 Promotes Lung Carcinoma Progression via Regulating Ferritin Mediate Ferroptosis in an m6A-Dependent Manner
Authors: Diao Hongtao , Tan Huiling , Hu Yaju , Wang Ruonan , Cai Pingdong , Huang Bingying , Shao Xiaoqi , Yan Meiling , Yin Chuntong , Zhang Yue
Published: January 2023

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a significant role as an epigenetic mechanism, which is involved in various cancers’ progress via regulating mRNA modification. As a crucial m6A “reader”, YTHDF1 is able to alter m6A-modified mRNA and promote the protein translation process in multiple cancers. However, the role of YTHDF1 in lung cancer has not been fully investigated. This study focuses on elucidating the function of YTHDF1 in the development of lung cancer and its underlying mechanism. We demonstrated that YTHDF1 was highly expressed in lung carcinoma progression; then, the loss of function experiments in lung cell lines confirmed that knockdown of YTHDF1 suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion and induced ferroptosis of lung cancer cells. Further functional assays showed that ferritin (FTH) was identified as the key target of YTHDF1 in lung cancer cells. Furthermore, the overexpression of ferritin in YTHDF1-depleted cells partially restored lung cancer cell suppression. Collectively, our data suggested that the upregulation of YTHDF1 promotes lung cancer carcinogenesis by accelerating ferritin translation in an m6A-dependent manner. We hope that our findings may provide a new target for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Advances in Xanthan Gum-Based Systems for the Delivery of Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Jadav Mahima , Pooja Deep , Adams David J. , Kulhari Hitesh
Published: January 2023

In the last three decades, polymers have contributed significantly to the improvement of drug delivery technologies by enabling the controlled and sustained release of therapeutic agents, versatility in designing different delivery systems, and feasibility of encapsulation of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules. Both natural and synthetic polymers have been explored for the delivery of various therapeutic agents. However, due to the disadvantages of synthetic polymers, such as lack of intrinsic biocompatibility and bioactivity, hydrophobicity, and expensive and complex procedure of synthesis, there is a move toward the use of naturally occurring polymers. The biopolymers are generally derived from either plants or microorganisms and have shown a wide range of applications in drug administration due to their hydrophilic nature, biodegradability, biocompatibility, no or low toxicity, abundance, and readily available, ease of chemical modification, etc. This review describes the applications of a biopolymer, xanthan gum (XG), in the delivery of various therapeutic agents such as drugs, genetic materials, proteins, and peptides. XG is a high molecular weight, microbial heteropolysaccharide and is produced as a fermented product of Gram-negative bacteria, Xanthomonas campestris. Traditionally, it has been used as a thickener in liquid formulations and an emulsion stabiliser. XG has several favourable properties for designing various forms of drug delivery systems. Furthermore, the structure of XG can be easily modified using different temperature and pH conditions. Therefore, XG and its derivatives have been explored for various applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Design, Characterization and Pharmacokinetic–Pharmacodynamic Evaluation of Poloxamer and Kappa-Carrageenan-Based Dual-Responsive In Situ Gel of Nebivolol for Treatment of Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Rawat Pradeep Singh , Ravi Punna Rao , Mir Shahid Iqbal , Khan Mohammed Shareef , Kathuria Himanshu , Katnapally Prasanna , Bhatnagar Upendra
Published: January 2023

This study developed a dual-responsive in situ gel of nebivolol (NEB), a selective β-adrenergic antagonist. The gel could achieve sustained concentrations in the aqueous humor to effectively treat glaucoma. The gel was prepared using a combination of poloxamers (Poloxamer-407 (P407) and Poloxamer-188 (P188)) and kappa-carrageenan (κCRG) as thermo-responsive and ion-sensitive polymers, respectively. Box–Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimize the effect of three critical formulation factors (concentration of P407, P188 and κCRG) on two critical response variables (sol-to-gel transition temperature of 33–35 °C and minimum solution state viscosity) of the in situ gel. A desirability function was employed to find the optimal concentrations of P407, P188 and κCRG that yielded a gel with the desired sol-to-gel transition temperature and solution state viscosity. An NEB-loaded gel was prepared using the optimized conditions and evaluated for in vitro drug release properties and ex vivo ocular irritation studies. Furthermore, ocular pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics studies were conducted in rabbits for the optimized formulation. The optimized NEB-loaded gel containing P407, P188 and κCRG had a sol-to-gel transition temperature of 34 °C and exhibited minimum viscosity (212 ± 2 cP at 25 °C). The optimized NEB-loaded gel sustained drug release with 86% drug release at the end of 24 h. The optimized formulation was well tolerated in the eye. Ocular pharmacokinetic studies revealed that the optimized in situ gel resulted in higher concentrations of NEB in aqueous humor compared to the NEB suspension. The aqueous humor Cmax of the optimized in situ gel (35.14 ± 2.25 ng/mL) was 1.2 fold higher than that of the NEB suspension (28.2 ± 3.1 ng/mL), while the AUC0–∞ of the optimized in situ gel (381.8 ± 18.32 ng/mL*h) was 2 fold higher than that of the NEB suspension (194.9 ± 12.17 ng/mL*h). The systemic exposure of NEB was significantly reduced for the optimized in situ gel, with a 2.7-fold reduction in the plasma Cmax and a 4.1-fold reduction in the plasma AUC0–∞ compared with the NEB suspension. The optimized gel produced a higher and sustained reduction in the intra-ocular pressure compared with the NEB suspension. The optimized gel was more effective in treating glaucoma than the NEB suspension due to its mucoadhesive properties, sustained drug release and reduced drug loss. Lower systemic exposure of the optimized gel indicates that the systemic side effects can be significantly reduced compared to the NEB suspension, particularly in the long-term management of glaucoma.
Research on the Penetration Characteristics of PELE Projectile with Reactive Inner Core
Authors: Zhou Jingyuan , Ran Xianwen , Tang Wenhui , Zhang Kun , Wang Haifu , Chen Pengwan , Ding Liangliang
Published: January 2023

With the improvement of protection technology, the damage power of conventional penetrators has become increasingly inferior. Reactive material is a new type of energetic material, which has strong energy release capabilities under high-velocity-impact conditions. In this paper, the reactive materials were put into the penetrator, and its penetration characteristics were studied. First, the penetrator with enhanced lateral effect (PELE) projectile structure with better penetration capability was obtained by numerical simulation. Then, based on the established polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/Al reactive material reaction model, the numerical simulation and experimental research of the PELE projectile with a reactive inner core penetrating the target were carried out. The results show that the simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental results, which verifies the confidence of the numerical simulation. The PELE projectile had a significant increase in power with the use of a truncated conical head and reactive materials. The residual velocity of the truncated cone PELE projectile increases by 8.41–21% over conventional PELE projectiles. Its damage range is 43% higher than that of conventional penetrators. The simulation method and the conclusions obtained in this paper can provide support and reference for further research on reactive materials and on effectively improving the damage power of the penetrator.
Enhancement of the Fragility Capacity of RC Frames Using FRPs with Different Configurations at Joints
Authors: Jafari Saeed , Mahini Seyed Saeed
Published: January 2023

This paper reports the results of an investigation into the effectiveness of different lengths of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) sheets in retrofitting the joints of Reinforced Concrete (RC) frames to improve the fragility function of ordinary RC frames. Several 8-storey RC buildings were investigated through FE modelling. The accuracy of the FE models was verified using peer research results. Fragility curves of FRP-retrofitting joints of two referenced RC frames were carried out by OpenSees, through Incremental Dynamic Analysis (IDA) analysis under 22 far-field earthquake records from 0.1 g to 4.0 g (with 0.1 g interments), based on FEMA P-695. Two types of retrofitting methods, web and flange bonding, were modeled and studied. The results showed that the fragility capacity of the retrofitted RC frames was significantly improved. Moreover, frames with longer sheets of FRP showed increased performance. In the complete state, the range of probability of exceedance grew from 2–2.5 g to 3–3.5 g (nearly 1 g), whereas, in the minor state, this growth was nearly 0.05 g. However, the fragility function of the flange-bonding was enhanced at a higher rate compared with that of the web-bonding RC frames. Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) materials improved the probability of exceedance of the complete state from 3 g to 4.5 g and 4.8 g in flange bonding frames. This enhancement for both types of frames was more significant when joints were retrofitted with 400 and 500 mm compared with 600, 700, and 800 mm. The midpoint of the PGA at the complete damage state in the web-bonding frame increased from 1.076 g to 1.664 g and in the flange-bonding frame retrofitted with GFRP and CFRP raised from 1.551 g to 2.769 and 3.076, respectively. The collapse margin ratio (CMR) indicates an acceptable improvement in the retrofitted frames. Overall, the rate of enhancement in fragility function from the original frame to the frame with 500 mm FRP was significant; however, the slope of this rate declined for longer FRP sheets. The fragility performance improvement resulted in controlling plastic hinging by FRPs.
Polymeric Membranes for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Radu Elena Ruxandra , Voicu Stefan Ioan , Thakur Vijay Kumar
Published: January 2023

Polymeric membranes are selective materials used in a wide range of applications that require separation processes, from water filtration and purification to industrial separations. Because of these materials’ remarkable properties, namely, selectivity, membranes are also used in a wide range of biomedical applications that require separations. Considering the fact that most organs (apart from the heart and brain) have separation processes associated with the physiological function (kidneys, lungs, intestines, stomach, etc.), technological solutions have been developed to replace the function of these organs with the help of polymer membranes. This review presents the main biomedical applications of polymer membranes, such as hemodialysis (for chronic kidney disease), membrane-based artificial oxygenators (for artificial lung), artificial liver, artificial pancreas, and membranes for osseointegration and drug delivery systems based on membranes.
GRACE Satellite-Based Analysis of Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Factors of Groundwater Storage in the Black Soil Region of Northeast China
Authors: Wang Shan , Cui Geng , Li Xiaojie , Liu Yan , Li Xiaofeng , Tong Shouzheng , Zhang Mingye
Published: January 2023

Clarifying the evolution pattern of groundwater storage (GWS) is crucial for exploring the amount of available water resources at a regional or basin scale. Currently, the groundwater resources of Northeast China have been extensively exploited, but only limited studies have assessed the extent of GWS depletion and its driving mechanisms. In this study, the groundwater storage anomaly (GWSA) in the black soil region of Northeast China was explored based on the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite combined with the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS) hydrological model. The results show that from 2002 to 2021, the overall GWSA decreased (−0.4204 cm/a), and specifically, the average rates of decrease in Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning Provinces were −0.2786, −0.5923, and −0.6694 cm/a, respectively, with the eastern, southern, and central parts of Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning Provinces losing seriously. Especially the GWSA deficit trend can reach −0.7471 cm/a in southern Jilin Province. The GWSA deficits in the three provinces from April to September were greater than 0.40 cm/a, while the deficit values from January to March and from October to December were less than 0.40 cm/a. This study is the first to quantitatively analyze the GWSA and its influencing factors in Northeast China for 2002–2021. The results of the study help clarify the differences in the spatial and temporal distribution of groundwater resources and their driving mechanisms in the northeastern black soil regions and provide a reference for the conservation and sustainable utilization of groundwater resources in the black soil region.
Effect of UV Scattering on Detection Limit of SO2 Cameras
Authors: Wu Kuijun , Zhang Zihao , Guo Jianjun , Hu Xiangrui , Li Juan , Li Faquan , He Weiwei
Published: January 2023

SO2 ultraviolet (UV) camera technology has been successfully applied to the accurate imaging detection of pollutant gas concentration; however, the actual detection ability of this technology has not been intensively studied, especially the detection accuracy and limit under the influence of the light dilution effect. Here, we theoretically and experimentally investigate the UV scattering on SO2 concentration inversion. The radiation transfer model of the light dilution effect is reconstructed, and the concept of the optimized detection limit is discussed. An outfield experiment is conducted on a ship exhaust, and the results are compared with the theoretical calculations, which indicates that the detection limit of the SO2 UV camera is 15 ppm·m at close range and increases to 25 ppm·m when the detection distance is 3.5 km. This study proves that the detection limit of the SO2 UV camera deteriorates with the decreasing atmospheric visibility, the lengthening detection distance, and the increasing aerosol content within the plume. In addition, the hardware indicators of the camera systems also play a key role in the detection limit, and taking reasonable image processing can significantly release the instruments’ performance and extend the applicability of the SO2 UV camera.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Remote Sensing in 2022
Authors:   Remote Sensing Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
An In-Flight Alignment Method for Global Positioning System-Assisted Low Cost Strapdown Inertial Navigation System in Flight Body with Short-Endurance and High-Speed Rotation
Authors: Wei Xiaokai , Li Jie , Han Ding , Wang Junlin , Zhan Ying , Wang Xin , Feng Kaiqiang
Published: January 2023

Alignment technology plays an important role in navigation, and is used extensively throughout military and civilian applications. However, the existing in-flight alignment methods cannot be applied to the low-cost based strap-down inertial navigation system/global positioning system integrated navigation system, used in short-endurance and high-speed rotation flight bodies, since they cannot quickly obtain alignment results to meet the accuracy requirements of a flight body with special movement characteristics of short-endurance and high-speed rotation. In this paper, in order to solve this challenging problem of alignment for flight body with short-endurance and high-speed rotation, a fast in-flight alignment method based on the Lie group is proposed. First, an in-flight alignment model based on vector observations was established by using the Lie group. Second, addressing the problem that the alignment accuracy is greatly affected by the low-cost inertial sensor bias, an improved unscented Kalman filter was constructed in the Lie group on the basis of fully considering the characteristics of the system equations to estimate and feedback the correlated errors. Finally, a trajectory simulation of high-speed flight body and field semi-physical test was carried out to evaluate the proposed method. Evaluation of the system performance in comparison with existing state-of-the-art methods indicated that the proposed in-flight alignment method has better alignment accuracy and faster alignment velocity for a low-cost strap-down inertial navigation system/global positioning system integrated navigation system.
Fast Wideband Beamforming Using Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Wu Xun , Luo Jie , Li Guowei , Zhang Shurui , Sheng Weixing
Published: January 2023

With the wideband beamforming approaches, the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) could achieve high azimuth resolution and wide swath. However, the performance of conventional adaptive wideband time-domain beamforming is severely affected as the received signal snapshots are insufficient for adaptive approaches. In this paper, a wideband beamformer using convolutional neural network (CNN) method, namely, frequency constraint wideband beamforming prediction network (WBPNet), is proposed to obtain a satisfactory performance in the circumstances of scanty snapshots. The proposed WBPNet successfully estimates the direction of arrival of interference with scanty snapshots and obtains the optimal weights with effectively null for the interference by utilizing the uniqueness of CNN to extract potential nonlinear features of input information. Meanwhile, the novel beamformer has an undistorted response to the wideband signal of interest. Compared with the conventional time-domain wideband beamforming algorithm, the proposed method can fast obtain adaptive weights because of using few snapshots. Moreover, the proposed WBPNet has a satisfactory performance on wideband beamforming with low computational complexity because it avoids the inverse operation of covariance matrix. Simulation results show the meliority and feasibility of the proposed approach.
Exploiting Superpixel-Based Contextual Information on Active Learning for High Spatial Resolution Remote Sensing Image Classification
Authors: Tang Jiechen , Tong Hengjian , Tong Fei , Zhang Yun , Chen Weitao
Published: January 2023

Superpixel-based classification using Active Learning (AL) has shown great potential in high spatial resolution remote sensing image classification tasks. However, in existing superpixel-based classification models using AL, the expert labeling information is only used on the selected informative superpixel while its neighboring superpixels are ignored. Actually, as most superpixels are over-segmented, a ground object always contains multiple superpixels. Thus, the center superpixel tends to have the same label as its neighboring superpixels. In this paper, to make full use of the expert labeling information, a Similar Neighboring Superpixels Search and Labeling (SNSSL) method was proposed and used in the AL process. Firstly, we identify superpixels with certain categories and uncertain superpixels by supervised learning. Secondly, we use the active learning method to process those uncertain superpixels. In each round of AL, the expert labeling information is not only used to enrich the training set but also used to label the similar neighboring superpixels. Similar neighboring superpixels are determined by computing the similarity of two superpixels according to CIELAB Dominant Colors distance, Correlation distance, Angular Second Moment distance and Contrast distance. The final classification map is composed of the supervised learning classification map and the active learning with SNSSL classification map. To demonstrate the performance of the proposed SNSSL method, the experiments were conducted on images from two benchmark high spatial resolution remote sensing datasets. The experiment shows that overall accuracy, average accuracy and kappa coefficients of the classification using the SNSSL have been improved obviously compared with the classification without the SNSSL.
Computational Modeling and Parametric Analysis of SMA Hybrid Composite Plates under Thermal Environment
Authors: Li Wei , Stachiv Ivo
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a coupled thermoelastic finite element formulation for static and dynamic analysis of composite laminated plates with embedded active shape memory alloy (SMA) wires, which accounts for both the phase transformation and the nonlinearity effects of SMA wires. The equations of motion are obtained by using Hamilton’s principle and first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT). Furthermore, based on Brinson’s one-dimensional phase transformation constitutive law, a novel coupled thermoelastic finite element model that enables analysis of the SMA hybrid composite (SMAHC) plate is developed. The accuracy and efficiency of the developed computational model for analysis of SMAHC plates are reinforced by comparing theoretical predictions with data available from the literature. The results of the numerical examples also show the ability of the proposed model to predict the thermal-mechanical behavior of SMAHC plates in accordance with SMA’s hysteresis behavior. In addition, based on the proposed model, the influence of temperature as well as SMA volume fraction, pre-strain value, boundary condition and layup sequence on the static bending and free vibration behavior of the SMAHC plates is investigated in detail. The results of parametric analysis show that the variations of both static deflection and natural frequency of the SMAHC plate over temperature exhibit a nonmonotonic behavior.
Image-Based Detection of Modifications in Assembled PCBs with Deep Convolutional Autoencoders
Authors: Candido de Oliveira Diulhio , Nassu Bogdan Tomoyuki , Wehrmeister Marco Aurelio
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we introduce a one-class learning approach for detecting modifications in assembled printed circuit boards (PCBs) based on photographs taken without tight control over perspective and illumination conditions. Anomaly detection and segmentation are essential for several applications, where collecting anomalous samples for supervised training is infeasible. Given the uncontrolled environment and the huge number of possible modifications, we address the problem as a case of anomaly detection, proposing an approach that is directed towards the characteristics of that scenario, while being well suited for other similar applications. We propose a loss function that can be used to train a deep convolutional autoencoder based only on images of the unmodified board—which allows overcoming the challenge of producing a representative set of samples containing anomalies for supervised learning. We also propose a function that explores higher-level features for comparing the input image and the reconstruction produced by the autoencoder, allowing the segmentation of structures and components that differ between them. Experiments performed on a dataset built to represent real-world situations (which we made publicly available) show that our approach outperforms other state-of-the-art approaches for anomaly segmentation in the considered scenario, while producing comparable results on a more general object anomaly detection task.
CNN–RNN Network Integration for the Diagnosis of COVID-19 Using Chest X-ray and CT Images
Authors: Kanjanasurat Isoon , Tenghongsakul Kasi , Purahong Boonchana , Lasakul Attasit
Published: January 2023

The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has rapidly spread across the globe. It is crucial to identify positive cases as rapidly as humanely possible to provide appropriate treatment for patients and prevent the pandemic from spreading further. Both chest X-ray and computed tomography (CT) images are capable of accurately diagnosing COVID-19. To distinguish lung illnesses (i.e., COVID-19 and pneumonia) from normal cases using chest X-ray and CT images, we combined convolutional neural network (CNN) and recurrent neural network (RNN) models by replacing the fully connected layers of CNN with a version of RNN. In this framework, the attributes of CNNs were utilized to extract features and those of RNNs to calculate dependencies and classification base on extracted features. CNN models VGG19, ResNet152V2, and DenseNet121 were combined with long short-term memory (LSTM) and gated recurrent unit (GRU) RNN models, which are convenient to develop because these networks are all available as features on many platforms. The proposed method is evaluated using a large dataset totaling 16,210 X-ray and CT images (5252 COVID-19 images, 6154 pneumonia images, and 4804 normal images) were taken from several databases, which had various image sizes, brightness levels, and viewing angles. Their image quality was enhanced via normalization, gamma correction, and contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization. The ResNet152V2 with GRU model achieved the best architecture with an accuracy of 93.37%, an F1 score of 93.54%, a precision of 93.73%, and a recall of 93.47%. From the experimental results, the proposed method is highly effective in distinguishing lung diseases. Furthermore, both CT and X-ray images can be used as input for classification, allowing for the rapid and easy detection of COVID-19.
SCANet: Implementation of Selective Context Adaptation Network in Smart Farming Applications
Authors: Sigalingging Xanno , Prakosa Setya Widyawan , Leu Jenq-Shiou , Hsieh He-Yen , Avian Cries , Faisal Muhamad
Published: January 2023

In the last decade, deep learning has enjoyed its spotlight as the game-changing addition to smart farming and precision agriculture. Such development has been predominantly observed in developed countries, while on the other hand, in developing countries most farmers especially ones with smallholder farms have not enjoyed such wide and deep adoption of this new technologies. In this paper we attempt to improve the image classification part of smart farming and precision agriculture. Agricultural commodities tend to possess certain textural details on their surfaces which we attempt to exploit. In this work, we propose a deep learning based approach called Selective Context Adaptation Network (SCANet). SCANet performs feature enhancement strategy by leveraging level-wise information and employing context selection mechanism. In exploiting contextual correlation feature of the crop images our proposed approach demonstrates the effectiveness of the context selection mechanism. Our proposed scheme achieves 88.72% accuracy and outperforms the existing approaches. Our model is evaluated on the cocoa bean dataset constructed from the real cocoa bean industry scene in Indonesia.
Research on Anomaly Detection of Surveillance Video Based on Branch-Fusion Net and CSAM
Authors: Zhang Pengjv , Lu Yuanyao
Published: January 2023

As the monitor probes are used more and more widely these days, the task of detecting abnormal behaviors in surveillance videos has gained widespread attention. The generalization ability and parameter overhead of the model affect how accurate the detection result is. To deal with the poor generalization ability and high parameter overhead of the model in existing anomaly detection methods, we propose a three-dimensional multi-branch convolutional fusion network, named “Branch-Fusion Net”. The network is designed with a multi-branch structure not only to significantly reduce parameter overhead but also to improve the generalization ability by understanding the input feature map from different perspectives. To ignore useless features during the model training, we propose a simple yet effective Channel Spatial Attention Module (CSAM), which sequentially focuses attention on key channels and spatial feature regions to suppress useless features and enhance important features. We combine the Branch-Fusion Net and the CSAM as a local feature extraction network and use the Bi-Directional Gated Recurrent Unit (Bi-GRU) to extract global feature information. The experiments are validated on a self-built Crimes-mini dataset, and the accuracy of anomaly detection in surveillance videos reaches 93.55% on the test set. The result shows that the model proposed in the paper significantly improves the accuracy of anomaly detection in surveillance videos with low parameter overhead.
Comparing Robust Linking and Regularized Estimation for Linking Two Groups in the 1PL and 2PL Models in the Presence of Sparse Uniform Differential Item Functioning
Authors: Robitzsch Alexander
Published: January 2023

In the social sciences, the performance of two groups is frequently compared based on a cognitive test involving binary items. Item response models are often utilized for comparing the two groups. However, the presence of differential item functioning (DIF) can impact group comparisons. In order to avoid the biased estimation of groups, appropriate statistical methods for handling differential item functioning are required. This article compares the performance-regularized estimation and several robust linking approaches in three simulation studies that address the one-parameter logistic (1PL) and two-parameter logistic (2PL) models, respectively. It turned out that robust linking approaches are at least as effective as the regularized estimation approach in most of the conditions in the simulation studies.
Combining CAD Modeling and Simulation of Energy Performance Data for the Retrofit of Public Buildings
Authors: Sofias Konstantinos , Kanetaki Zoe , Stergiou Constantinos , Jacques Sébastien
Published: January 2023

The retrofit of the most energy-intensive buildings represents an opportunity to improve their energy efficiency or to reduce their energy demand. This paper proposes combining computer-aided design (CAD) modeling and the use of energy efficiency software to build a methodology for calculating, visualizing and analyzing building parameters in order to provide retrofit scenarios. Five retrofit scenarios were implemented using the energy software, including the initial operating cost, capital cost and payback period to be evaluated. At the same time, a three-dimensional CAD model was created to perform daylighting and shading simulations to visualize and design the role of building orientation under actual use conditions. These retrofit scenarios were evaluated individually and then combined to examine their performance in terms of cost-effectiveness and energy efficiency. The simulation results show the importance of the building’s orientation, as this directly affects the thermal properties of the walls and openings, as well as the daylighting areas. The simulation results were also used to define the parameters that affect the interoperability of the retrofit solutions. Finally, in addition to the significant reduction in calculation time, the coupling of the CAD software with the energy efficiency software allowed access to information that was not available at the outset.