bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Metal Wire Mesh as Support Material for Dieless Forming of Woven Reinforcement Textiles
Authors: Rath Jan-Erik , Schüppstuhl Thorsten
Published: October 2023

Within the rapidly growing market for fiber-reinforced plastics (FRPs), conventional production processes involving molds are not cost-efficient for prototype and small series production. Therefore, new flexible forming techniques are increasingly being researched, many of which have been inspired by incremental sheet metal forming (ISF). Due to the different deformation mechanisms of woven reinforcement fibers and metal sheets, ISF is not directly applicable to FRP. Instead, shear and bending of the fibers need to be realized. Therefore, a new dieless forming process for the production of FRP supported by metal wire mesh as an auxiliary material is proposed. Two standard tools, such as hemispherical punches, are used to locally bend a reversible layup of metal wire mesh and woven reinforcement fiber fabric enclosed in a vacuum bag. Therefore, the mesh aids in introducing shear into the material due to its ability to transmit compressive in-plane forces, and it ensures that the otherwise flexible fabric maintains the intended deformation until the part is cured or solidified. Basic experiments are conducted using thermoset prepreg, woven commingled yarn fabric, and thermoplastic organo sheets, proving the feasibility of the approach.
The Meal Delivery Routing Problem in E-commerce Platforms under the Shared Logistics Mode
Authors: Bi Hualing , Zhu Xiaoxue , Lu Fuqiang , Huang Min
Published: October 2023

The meal delivery routing problem faced by the e-commerce platform is challenging. In order to reduce the logistics cost and meet the needs of customers, a multi-objective meal delivery routing problem is studied under the shared logistics services mode (SLSM). In the meal delivery problem, the third-party logistics providers need to arrange vehicles in the multi-depot to pick up meals from multiple food providers and deliver them to customers, so as to realize the sharing of logistics services between food providers and compare them with the traditional logistics service mode (TLSM). While realizing sharing, it is also necessary to meet customer time requirements as much as possible. In this case, a multi-objective mathematical model to minimize customer dissatisfaction and delivery cost is established, and the linear weighting method is employed to transform the model. An improved Ant Lion Optimizer (IALO) is proposed to solve the problem, and compared with other algorithms. The experiments verified the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm and show that SLSM can save logistics costs and meet customer needs more than TLSM, and provide certain reference opinions for the e-commerce platform.
Resident Effect Perception in Urban Spaces to Inform Urban Design Strategies
Authors: Zhao Zichen , Wu Zhiqiang , Zhou Shiqi , Dong Wen , Gan Wei , Zou Yixuan , Wang Mo
Published: October 2023

In the field of urban design, current research has shifted towards resident preference perception and computer-aided design methods that rely on deep learning techniques. In this study, we aimed to provide a quantitative design method for urban space design that could take into account the preferences of different populations. Through empirical research, we collected real urban space and population data, which we then quantified using advanced intelligent recognition tools based on deep learning techniques. Our ensuing analysis illuminated the intricate interplay between constituent elements of urban spaces and the structural and emotional changes of residents. By taking into account the specific driving relationships between each element and residents, we proposed a new evaluation methodology for constructing an intelligent design evaluation model for urban spaces. This intelligent design evaluation model was subsequently used to evaluate the urban space both pre- and post-design. The standard deviation of the difference results demonstrated that the design option (SD value = 0.103) and the desired option for Space 1 were lower than the current option (SD value = 0.129) and the expected scheme. Our findings provide quantitative configuration strategies and program evaluation for urban space design, thus helping designers to design urban spaces that are more popular with residents.
Bilayer Heterogeneous Cation Exchange Membrane with Polyaniline Modified Homogeneous Layer: Preparation and Electrotransport Properties
Authors: Loza Natalia , Falina Irina , Kutenko Natalia , Shkirskaya Svetlana , Loza Julia , Kononenko Natalia
Published: October 2023

A bilayer membrane based on a heterogenous cation exchange membrane with a homogeneous cation exchange layer and a polyaniline on its surface is prepared. The intercalation of polyaniline into the membrane with a homogeneous cation exchange layer is performed by oxidative polymerization of aniline. The influence of the homogeneous cation exchange layer and the polyaniline on the structure, conductivity, diffusion permeability, selectivity, and current–voltage curve of the heterogeneous cation exchange membrane is established. Membrane properties are studied in the HCl, NaCl, and CaCl2 solutions. The homogeneous cation exchange layer has a negligible effect on the transport properties of the initial heterogeneous membrane. The polyaniline synthesis leads to a decrease in the macropore volume in the membrane structure, conductivity, and diffusion permeability. The counterion transport number in the bilayer membrane is significantly reduced in a solution of calcium chloride and practically does not change in sodium chloride and hydrochloric acid. In addition, the asymmetry of the diffusion permeability and shape of current–voltage curve depending on the orientation of the membrane surface to the flux of electrolyte or counterion are found.
Flotation Performance and Adsorption Mechanism of Cerussite with Phenylpropenyl Hydroxamic Acid Collector
Authors: Xie Honghui , Yao Xiang , Yu Xinyang , Mao Linghan , Zeng Yuhui , Wu Feng , Guo Shuzheng , He Guichun
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the flotation separation of cerussite and quartz under different experimental conditions was studied by using phenylpropenyl hydroxamic acid (PHA) as a collector. The flotation performance of PHA was studied through experiments involving pure minerals and artificial mixed minerals, and the results showed that PHA has good selectivity and collecting ability for cerussite. The adsorption mechanism of the collector on the surface of cerussite was investigated via adsorption capacity experiments, zeta potential tests, FTIR spectroscopy, and XPS analysis. The adsorption capacity results showed that PHA can be well adsorbed on the surface of cerussite. The results of the zeta potential tests showed that PHA has strong chemical adsorption on the cerussite surface. FTIR and XPS analysis showed that PHA may form a Pb–PHA complex on the cerussite surface to improve the floatability of cerussite.
Effects of the Types and Amounts of Clay Minerals on Durability of Lime-Stabilized Clay Soils
Authors: Soltaninejad Sanaz , Marandi Seyed Morteza , B.P. Naveen
Published: October 2023

Although the interaction between clay minerals and lime is the most effective factor in lime stabilization techniques, it has not been deeply evaluated. This research study investigated the microstructural characteristics of lime-stabilized Bentonite and Kaolin soils using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analyses. To consider the variation in clay mineralogy, these soils were mixed at varied ratios, stabilized, and then subjected to a durability process. The microstructural findings showed that the pozzolanic reactions with lime did not occur or occurred at a low level for Bentonite soil. However, they occurred at a very high level for Kaolin soil. The durability test confirmed the microstructural results and showed that the samples in which Bentonite soil had a share of 40 to 100% by dry weight of the soil did not last with any percent of lime. When the Kaolin soil content reached 100% by dry weight of the soil, the specimens lasted in the best possible way, even with 4% of the lime. This study concluded that the determination of optimum lime content based on the amounts and types of soil clay minerals is an important innovation for geotechnical projects and may be very cost-effective.
Coffee Pulp Gasification for Syngas Obtention and Methane Production Simulation Using Ni Catalysts Supported on Al2O3 and ZrO2 in a Packed Bed Reactor
Authors: Aristizábal-Alzate Carlos Esteban , Dongil Ana Belén , Romero-Sáez Manuel
Published: October 2023

The methanation of CO2 is of great interest in power-to-gas systems and contributes to the mitigation of climate change through carbon dioxide capture and the subsequent production of high-added-value products. This study investigated CO2 methanation with three Ni catalysts supported on Al2O3 and ZrO2, which were simulated using a mathematical model of a packed bed reactor designed based on their chemical kinetics reported in the literature. The simulated reactive system was fed with syngas obtained from residual coffee pulp obtained after a solvent phytochemical extraction process under several gasification conditions. The results reflect a high degree of influence of the catalyst support, preparation method, and syngas composition on CO2 and H2 conversions and CH4 selectivity. For all the syngas compositions, the Ni/ZrO2 catalysts showed the best values for CO2 conversion and H2 conversion for the Ni/Al2O3 catalyst except in gasification at 700 °C and using the Ni/ZrO2p catalyst.
A Nutrigenetic Strategy for Reducing Blood Lipids and Low-Grade Inflammation in Adults with Obesity and Overweight
Authors: Pérez-Beltrán Yolanda E. , González-Becerra Karina , Rivera-Iñiguez Ingrid , Martínez-López Erika , Ramos-Lopez Omar , Alcaraz-Mejía Mildreth , Rodríguez-Echevarría Roberto , Sáyago-Ayerdi Sonia G. , Mendivil Edgar J.
Published: October 2023

The pathogenesis of obesity and dyslipidemia involves genetic factors, such as polymorphisms related to lipid metabolism alterations predisposing their development. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nutrigenetic intervention on the blood lipid levels, body composition, and inflammation markers of adults with obesity and overweight. Eleven genetic variants associated with dyslipidemias in Mexicans were selected, and specific nutrigenetic recommendations for these polymorphisms were found. One hundred and one adults were recruited and assigned to follow either a standard or nutrigenetic diet for eight weeks. Anthropometric, biochemical, body composition, and inflammation markers were evaluated through standardized methods. Weighted genetic risk scores (wGRSs) were computed using the study polymorphisms. After intervention, both diets significantly decreased the anthropometric parameters and body composition (p < 0.05). Only the nutrigenetic diet group showed significant reductions in VLDL-c (p = 0.001), triglycerides (p = 0.002), TG:HDL (p = 0.002), IL-6 (p = 0.002), and TNF-α (p = 0.04). wGRSs had a high impact on the ΔTGs and ΔVLDL-c of both groups (standard diet: ΔTGs: Adj R2 = 0.69, p = 0.03; ΔVLDL-c: Adj R2 = 0.71, p = 0.02; nutrigenetic diet: ΔTGs: Adj R2 = 0.49, p = 0.03 and ΔVLDL-c: R2 = 0.29, p = 0.04). This nutrigenetic intervention improved lipid abnormalities in patients with excessive body weight. Hence, nutrigenetic strategies could be coadjuvant tools and enhance the standard dietary treatment for cardiometabolic diseases.
Phase Angle and Postoperative Complications in a Model of Immunonutrition in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Boćkowska Magdalena , Kostro Przemysław , Kamocki Zbigniew
Published: October 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the influence of our own model of immunonutrition on phase angle and postoperative complications. Our goal was to establish modern prehabilitation procedures for patients operated on for pancreatic cancer. Methods: Patients with pancreatic cancer who qualified for surgical treatment were divided into two groups. Group I (20 patients; 12 with pancreatic head cancer, 8 with pancreatic tail/body cancer) was given immunonutrition (Impact Oral 3× a day, 237 mL, for 5 days before surgery, and after surgery for an average of 3.5 days). Group II (20 patients; 12 with pancreatic head cancer, 8 with pancreatic tail/body cancer) did not receive immunonutrition. Body weight, body mass index and phase angle were assessed on admission to the hospital, after preoperative immunonutrition, on the third and eighth postoperative days. C-reactive protein and Interleukin-1 α were measured on admission to the hospital, after preoperative immunonutrition, on the eighth postoperative day. Postsurgical complications were assessed via Clavien–Dindo classification. Results: On admission to the hospital, the phase angle was 5.0° (4.70–5.85) in Group I and 5.1° (5.00–6.25) in Group II. After 5 days of using preoperative immunonutrition, it increased statistically significantly (p < 0.02) to 5.35°. In Group I, on the third day after surgery, it decreased statistically significantly (p < 0.001) to 4.65°, and then, increased to 4.85° on the eighth day. In Group II, statistically significant decreases in the phase angle were observed on the third (4.5°; p < 0.002) and eighth (4.55°; p < 0.008) days after surgery. A statistically significant increase in CRP (86.6 mg/dL; p < 0.02) and IL-1α (18.5 pg/mL; p < 0.03) levels was observed on the eighth day after surgery in this group. In Group I, a statistically significant negative correlation (R −0.501106; p < 0.002) of the phase angle after 5 days of preoperative immunonutrition with postoperative complications was observed. Conclusions: This study used our own model of immunonutrition in patients undergoing surgery for pancreatic cancer. The applied model of perioperative IN improved the postoperative course of patients operated on due to pancreatic cancer. Fewer complications were observed in patients in the group receiving IN. Also, the PA value increased after the 5-day preoperative IN, and the use of perioperative IN improved the PA value on the eighth postoperative day compared to the group that did not receive IN. On this day, an increase in inflammatory parameters was also observed in the group that did not receive IN. In addition, PA correlated negatively with complications. The PA can be a useful tool to assess the effectiveness of the applied IN, and thus, to predict the occurrence of postoperative complications. Therefore, there is a further need for studies on larger groups of patients.
Factors Associated with Sarcopenia among Elderly Individuals Residing in Community and Nursing Home Settings: A Systematic Review with a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Jia , Zhu Yuezhi , Tan Jen Kit , Ismail Azera Hasra , Ibrahim Roszita , Hassan Nor Haty
Published: October 2023

To investigate the factors associated with sarcopenia in elderly individuals residing in nursing homes and community settings, we conducted a systematic search of databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane, up to May 2023. We incorporated a total of 70 studies into our analysis. Our findings revealed that the prevalence of sarcopenia in nursing homes ranged from 25% to 73.7%, while in community settings, it varied from 5.2% to 62.7%. The factors associated with sarcopenia in both nursing homes and community settings included male gender, BMI, malnutrition, and osteoarthritis. In community settings, these factors comprised age, poor nutrition status, small calf circumference, smoking, physical inactivity, cognitive impairment, diabetes, depression and heart disease. Currently, both the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP) and the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) standards are widely utilized in nursing homes and community settings, with the EWGSOP standard being more applicable to nursing homes. Identifying factors associated with sarcopenia is of paramount significance, particularly considering that some of them can be modified and managed. Further research is warranted to investigate the impact of preventive measures on these factors in the management of sarcopenia among elderly individuals residing in nursing homes and community settings.
Toll-like Receptor Ligands Enhance Vaccine Efficacy against a Virulent Newcastle Disease Virus Challenge in Chickens
Authors: Lee Chang-Won , Bakre Abhijeet , Olivier Timothy L. , Alvarez-Narvaez Sonsiray , Harrell Telvin L. , Conrad Steven J.
Published: October 2023

To enhance the efficacy of the current Newcastle disease vaccine, we have selected potential adjuvants that target well-characterized pattern recognition receptors: the toll-like receptors (TLRs). Imiquimod is a small-molecule activator of TLR7, which is a sensor of dsDNA. ODN-1826 is a mimetic of CpG DNA and ligates TLR21 (a chicken homologue of TLR9 in mammals). The activation of TLRs leads to antiviral responses, including the induction of type I interferons (IFNs). In this study, birds were vaccinated intranasally with a live LaSota strain with or without imiquimod or ODN-1826 (50 µg/bird). Two weeks after vaccination, the birds were challenged with a virulent Newcastle disease virus (chicken/CA/212676/2002). Both adjuvants (imiquimod or ODN-1826) induced higher and more uniform antibody titers among vaccinated birds compared with the live vaccine-alone group. In addition, adjuvanted vaccines demonstrated greater protective efficacy in terms of the reduction in virus-shedding titer and the number of birds shedding the challenge virus at 2 and 4 days post-challenge. A differential expression of antiviral and immune-related genes was observed among groups from tissues (Harderian gland, trachea, cecal tonsil, and spleen) collected 1 and 3 days after treatment. These results demonstrate the potential of TLR-targeted adjuvants as mucosal vaccine enhancers and warrant a further characterization of immune correlates and optimization for efficacy.
Anticancer Peptides Derived from Aldolase A and Induced Tumor-Suppressing Cells Inhibit Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Cui Changpeng , Huo Qingji , Xiong Xue , Li Kexin , Fishel Melissa L. , Li Baiyan , Yokota Hiroki
Published: October 2023

PDAC (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma) is a highly aggressive malignant tumor. We have previously developed induced tumor-suppressing cells (iTSCs) that secrete a group of tumor-suppressing proteins. Here, we examined a unique procedure to identify anticancer peptides (ACPs), using trypsin-digested iTSCs-derived protein fragments. Among the 10 ACP candidates, P04 (IGEHTPSALAIMENANVLAR) presented the most efficient anti-PDAC activities. P04 was derived from aldolase A (ALDOA), a glycolytic enzyme. Extracellular ALDOA, as well as P04, was predicted to interact with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and P04 downregulated oncoproteins such as Snail and Src. Importantly, P04 has no inhibitory effect on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). We also generated iTSCs by overexpressing ALDOA in MSCs and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). iTSC-derived conditioned medium (CM) inhibited the progression of PDAC cells as well as PDAC tissue fragments. The inhibitory effect of P04 was additive to that of CM and chemotherapeutic drugs such as 5-Flu and gemcitabine. Notably, applying mechanical vibration to PBMCs elevated ALDOA and converted PBMCs into iTSCs. Collectively, this study presented a unique procedure for selecting anticancer P04 from ALDOA in an iTSCs-derived proteome for the treatment of PDAC.
28-Homobrassinolide Primed Seed Improved Lead Stress Tolerance in Brassica rapa L. through Modulation of Physio-Biochemical Attributes and Nutrient Uptake
Authors: Khan Mawra , Ahmed Shakil , Yasin Nasim Ahmad , Sardar Rehana , Hussaan Muhammad , Gaafar Abdel-Rhman Z. , Haider Faish Ullah
Published: October 2023

Brassinosteroids (BRs) influence a variety of physiological reactions and alleviate different biotic and abiotic stressors. Turnip seedlings were grown with the goal of further exploring and expanding their function in plants under abiotic stress, particularly under heavy metal toxicity (lead stress). This study’s objective was to ascertain the role of applied 28-homobrassinolide (HBL) in reducing lead (Pb) stress in turnip plants. Turnip seeds treated with 1, 5, and 10 µM HBL and were grown-up in Pb-contaminated soil (300 mg kg−1). Lead accumulation reduces biomass, growth attributes, and various biochemical parameters, as well as increasing proline content. Seed germination, root and shoot growth, and gas exchange characteristics were enhanced via HBL treatment. Furthermore, Pb-stressed seedlings had decreased total soluble protein concentrations, photosynthetic pigments, nutrition, and phenol content. Nonetheless, HBL increased chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b levels in plant, resulting in increased photosynthesis. As a result, seeds treated with HBL2 (5 µM L−1) had higher nutritional contents (Mg+2, Zn+2, Na+2, and K+1). HBL2-treated seedlings had higher DPPH and metal tolerance indexes. This led to the conclusion that HBL2 effectively reduced Pb toxicity and improved resistance in lead-contaminated soil.
Investigation into the Relationship between Spermidine Degradation and Phenolic Compounds Biosynthesis in Barley Seedlings under Ultraviolet B Stress
Authors: Xie Chong , Zhu Yahui , Leng Chaoqun , Wang Qiaoe , Wang Pei , Yang Runqiang
Published: October 2023

Barley germination under ultraviolet B (UV-B) illumination stress induces effective accumulation of phenolic compounds in the barley. Spermidine can enhance the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds and alleviate the oxidative damage caused by UV-B. To better understand the function of spermidine, inhibitors of enzymes that are involved in the degradation of spermidine and the synthesis of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the product of spermidine degradation, were applied to barley germinated under UV-B treatment. The results showed a more severe oxidative damage, and a decrease in phenolic acid contents were observed when spermidine degradation was inhibited. However, GABA application did attenuate an increase in electrolyte permeability and MDA content caused by UV-B induced oxidative damage and improved the respiration rate. Meanwhile, GABA application can elevate the accumulation of phenolic compounds by ca. 20%, by elevating the activities of some key enzymes. Furthermore, the application of GABA, together with the inhibitor of spermidine degradation, can alleviate its suppression of the synthesis of phenolic acids, and resistance to UV-B stress. In conclusion, spermidine alleviated oxidative damage and enhanced the accumulation of phenolic compounds using its degradation product.
Hyperspectral Imaging and Selected Biological Control Agents for the Management of Fusarium Head Blight in Spring Wheat
Authors: Rieker Martin E. G. , Lutz Maximilian A. , El-Hasan Abbas , Thomas Stefan , Voegele Ralf T.
Published: October 2023

Fusarium spp. are important pathogens on cereals, capable of causing considerable yield losses and significantly reducing the quality of harvested grains due to contamination with mycotoxins. The European Union intends to reduce the use of chemical-synthetic plant protection products (csPPP) by up to 50% by the year 2030. To realize this endeavor without significant economic losses for farmers, it is crucial to have both precise early detection of pathogens and effective alternatives for csPPP. To investigate both the early detection of Fusarium head blight (FHB) and the efficacy of selected biological control agents (BCAs), a pot experiment with spring wheat (cv. ‘Servus’) was conducted under semi-field conditions. Spikes were sprayed with different BCAs prior to inoculation with a mixture of F. graminearum and F. culmorum conidia. While early detection of FHB was investigated by hyperspectral imaging (HSI), the efficiency of the fungal (Trichoderma sp. T10, T. harzianum T16, T. asperellum T23 and Clonostachys rosea CRP1104) and bacterial (Bacillus subtilis HG77 and Pseudomonas fluorescens G308) BCAs was assessed by visual monitoring. Evaluation of the hyperspectral images using linear discriminant analysis (LDA) resulted in a pathogen detection nine days post inoculation (dpi) with the pathogen, and thus four days before the first symptoms could be visually detected. Furthermore, support vector machines (SVM) and a combination of LDA and distance classifier (DC) were also able to detect FHB symptoms earlier than manual rating. Scoring the spikes at 13 and 17 dpi with the pathogen showed no significant differences in the FHB incidence among the treatments. Nevertheless, there is a trend suggesting that all BCAs exhibit a diminishing effect against FHB, with fungal isolates demonstrating greater efficacy compared to bacterial ones.
Insight into What Is inside Swift Heavy Ion Latent Tracks in PET Film
Authors: Tuleushev Adil Z. , Harrison Fiona E. , Kozlovskiy Artem L. , Zdorovets Maxim V.
Published: October 2023

We present here a novel experimental study of changes after contact electrification in the optical transmission spectra of samples of both pristine and irradiated PET film treated with Kr+15 ions of energy of 1.75 MeV and a fluence of 3 × 1010 cm2. We used a non-standard electrification scheme for injecting electrons into the film by applying negative electrodes to both its surfaces and using the positively charged inner regions of the film itself as the positive electrode. Electrification led to a decrease in the intensity of the internal electric fields for both samples and a hypsochromic (blue) shift in their spectra. For the irradiated PET sample, electrification resulted in a Gaussian modulation of its optical properties in the photon energy range 2.3–3.6 eV. We associate this Gaussian modulation with the partial decay of non-covalent extended conjugated systems that were formed under the influence of the residual radial electric field of the SHI latent tracks. Our studies lead us to suggest the latent track in the PET film can be considered as a variband material in the radial direction. Consideration of our results along with other published experimental results leads us to conclude that these can all be consistently understood by taking into account both the swift and slow electrons produced by SHI irradiation, and that it appears that the core of a latent track is negatively charged, and the periphery is positively charged.
Confinement of LiAlH4 in a Mesoporous Carbon Black for Improved Near-Ambient Release of H2
Authors: Ramah Pavle , Palm Rasmus , Tuul Kenneth , Aruväli Jaan , Månsson Martin , Lust Enn
Published: October 2023

LiAlH4 is a potential solid-state H2 storage material, where safe and efficient H2 storage is of critical importance for the transition towards a sustainable emission-free economy. To improve the H2 release and storage properties of LiAlH4, confinement in porous media decreases the temperature of H2 release and improves the kinetics, where considerably improved H2 release properties are accompanied by a loss in the total amount of H2 released. The capability of mesoporous carbon black to improve the H2 storage properties of confined LiAlH4 is investigated with temperature-programmed desorption and time-stability measurements using X-ray diffraction and N2 gas adsorption measurements to characterize the composite materials’ composition and structure. Here, we present the capability of commercial carbon black to effectively lower the onset temperature of H2 release to that of near-ambient, ≥295 K. In addition, the confinement in mesoporous carbon black destabilized LiAlH4 to a degree that during ≤14 days in storage, under Ar atmosphere and at ambient temperature, 40% of the theoretically contained H2 was lost due to decomposition. Thus, we present the possibility of destabilizing LiAlH4 to a very high degree and, thus, avoiding the melting step before H2 release at around 440 K using scaffold materials with fine-tuned porosities.
Challenges in Assessing Aphasia in Congenital Blind Patients: A Case Report
Authors: Nicoletta Maria Grazia , Riganello Francesco , Lucca Lucia Francesca , Cortese Maria Daniela
Published: October 2023

This case report focuses on assessing aphasia in a congenitally blind patient with an ischemic lesion using the Aachener Aphasia Test. The method involved adapting existing assessment tools to the patient, integrating Braille as an accessible technology, and incorporating the patient’s family for emotional support and for the identification of patient-specific communication strategies. The assessment revealed patient strengths in areas such as articulation, prosody, and repetition skills, but also exposed challenges in semantic and syntactic structures. However, the unavailability to assess and score naming and comprehension limited a full assessment of the patient’s language abilities. The findings underscore the need for flexible, tailored assessment strategies and collaborative approaches involving healthcare professionals and families. Moreover, it suggests a considerable research gap and a need for standard tools to assess blind patients with aphasia comprehensively. This case report contributes to the limited knowledge of assessing aphasia in blind individuals and calls for further research in this area to refine and expand the available tools and strategies.
A Seabed Terrain Feature Extraction Transformer for the Super-Resolution of the Digital Bathymetric Model
Authors: Cai Wuxu , Liu Yanxiong , Chen Yilan , Dong Zhipeng , Yuan Hanxiao , Li Ningning
Published: October 2023

The acquisition of high-resolution (HR) digital bathymetric models (DBMs) is crucial for oceanic research activities. However, obtaining HR DBM data is challenging, which has led to the use of super-resolution (SR) methods to improve the DBM’s resolution, as, unfortunately, existing interpolation methods for DBMs suffer from low precision, which limits their practicality. To address this issue, we propose a seabed terrain feature extraction transform model that combines the seabed terrain feature extraction module with the efficient transform module, focusing on the terrain characteristics of DBMs. By taking advantage of these two modules, we improved the efficient extraction of seabed terrain features both locally and globally, and as a result, we obtained a highly accurate SR reconstruction of DBM data within the study area, including the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean and the adjacent sea. A comparative analysis with bicubic interpolation, SRCNN, SRGAN, and SRResNet shows that the proposed method decreases the root mean square error (RMSE) by 16%, 10%, 13%, and 12%, respectively. These experimental results confirm the high accuracy of the proposed method in terms of reconstructing HR DBMs.
CDAU-Net: A Novel CoordConv-Integrated Deep Dual Cross Attention Mechanism for Enhanced Road Extraction in Remote Sensing Imagery
Authors: Yin Anchao , Ren Chao , Yue Weiting , Shao Hongjuan , Xue Xiaoqin
Published: October 2023

In the realm of remote sensing image analysis, the task of road extraction poses significant complexities, especially in the context of intricate scenes and diminutive targets. In response to these challenges, we have developed a novel deep learning network, christened CDAU-Net, designed to discern and delineate these features with enhanced precision. This network takes its structural inspiration from the fundamental architecture of U-Net while introducing innovative enhancements: we have integrated CoordConv convolutions into both the initial layer of the U-Net encoder and the terminal layer of the decoder, thereby facilitating a more efficacious processing of spatial information inherent in remote sensing images. Moreover, we have devised a unique mechanism termed the Deep Dual Cross Attention (DDCA), purposed to capture long-range dependencies within images—a critical factor in remote sensing image analysis. Our network replaces the skip-connection component of the U-Net with this newly designed mechanism, dealing with feature maps of the first four scales in the encoder and generating four corresponding outputs. These outputs are subsequently linked with the decoder stage to further capture the remote dependencies present within the remote sensing imagery. We have subjected CDAU-Net to extensive empirical validation, including testing on the Massachusetts Road Dataset and DeepGlobe Road Dataset. Both datasets encompass a diverse range of complex road scenes, making them ideal for evaluating the performance of road extraction algorithms. The experimental results showcase that whether in terms of accuracy, recall rate, or Intersection over Union (IoU) metrics, the CDAU-Net outperforms existing state-of-the-art methods in the task of road extraction. These findings substantiate the effectiveness and superiority of our approach in handling complex scenes and small targets, as well as in capturing long-range dependencies in remote sensing imagery. In sum, the design of CDAU-Net not only enhances the accuracy of road extraction but also presents new perspectives and possibilities for deep learning analysis of remote sensing imagery.
A Review of Deep Learning-Based Vehicle Motion Prediction for Autonomous Driving
Authors: Huang Renbo , Zhuo Guirong , Xiong Lu , Lu Shouyi , Tian Wei
Published: October 2023

Autonomous driving vehicles can effectively improve traffic conditions and promote the development of intelligent transportation systems. An autonomous vehicle can be divided into four parts: environment perception, motion prediction, motion planning, and motion control, among which the motion prediction module plays an essential role in the sustainability of autonomous driving vehicles. Vehicle motion prediction improves autonomous vehicles’ understanding of the surrounding dynamic environment, which reduces the uncertainty in the decision-making system and facilitates the implementation of an active braking system for autonomous vehicles. Currently, deep learning-based methods have become prevalent in this field as they can efficiently process complex scene information and achieve long-term prediction. These methods often follow a similar paradigm: encoding scene input to obtain the context feature, then decoding the context feature to output predictions. Recent research has proposed innovative improvement designs to enhance the primary paradigm. Thus, we review recent works based on their improvement designs and summarize them based on three criteria: scene input representation, context refinement, and prediction rationality improvement. Although most works focus on trajectory prediction, this paper also discusses new occupancy flow prediction methods. Additionally, this paper outlines commonly used datasets, evaluation metrics, and potential research directions.
Study on the Unified Mechanical Properties of Ili Undisturbed Loess under the Influence of Soluble Salt
Authors: Niu Lisi , Niu Haoshuang , Zhao Yongquan , Ge Lihong , Guo Ming , Ren Wenyuan , Wang Yuguo , Zhang Aijun
Published: October 2023

Through three stress path tests of unsaturated Ili undisturbed loess, the effect of soluble salt content on the deformation of net mean stress, suction, and deviated stress were investigated. The mechanical properties of the normalized compression curve, soil water characteristic curve and critical state line were revealed. The test results indicate that: in the isotropic compression test, the normal compression curves controlling different suctions can be characterized by using the initial void ratio and the yield net mean stress, and can be described as a two-parameter exponential function. In the triaxial shrinkage test, the soil water characteristic curves controlling vary net mean stresses are dimensionless by using saturated moisture and air entry value, and the normalization formula can be characterized by a single parameter exponential function. In the consolidation shear test, the corresponding effective net mean stress is calculated by suction and saturation. The critical state lines under the unsaturated condition controlling vary suctions can be described as the critical state line under the saturated condition on the plane of effective net mean stress and deviator stress. When the effective net mean stress is constant, the critical state lines under the unsaturated condition can be characterized by the degree of gas saturation and the ratio of unsaturated void ratio to saturated void ratio. The research will offer reference pointing at the regulation and utilization of water and salt in the loess region of Central Asia, so as to better guarantee the sustainable development of saline-alkali land project construction.
Research on the Influence of Backfilling Mining in an Iron Mine with Complex Mining Conditions on the Stability of Surface Buildings
Authors: Li Huaibin , Guo Zhenpeng , Hua Xinzhu , Dai Bibo , Zeng Xuemin , Zhao Yuemao
Published: October 2023

The safe and efficient extraction of ore bodies under buildings contributes to the continued exploitation and utilization of mineral resources. To effectively reduce the mining-induced disturbance caused to surface buildings, the Vertical Crater Retreat (VCR) delayed backfilling method was applied at the Wuji iron mine according to mining theory and engineering experience, and the surface deformation under buildings was investigated through numerical simulation and on-site monitoring. The results show that stress concentration occurs at the top of the ore body and in surrounding rocks between ore veins, and the direction of the principal stress coincides with that of the main bearing capacity of the rock mass. With the increasing distance between the surrounding rock and the ore body, the stress disturbance in the surrounding rock attenuates gradually. The surface subsidence and deformation caused by ore mining exhibits the same northwest trend as the strike of the ore body, and the surface deformation in the X direction is greater than that in the Y direction. The surface deformation of the mining area near the 1# air shaft, Wuji village, steam autoclave workshop of the brick factory, and 1# substation is relatively large, while the surface subsidence, horizontal deformation, inclination, and curvature are all smaller than the critical values allowed for buildings and structures. This research provides a theoretical basis and engineering guidance for the prevention and control of surface deformation during mining under buildings and structures.
Exploring Students’ Push and Pull Motivations to Visit Rural Educational Tourism Sites in China
Authors: Yang Feifei , Ayavoo Rajenthyran , Ab Aziz Norazlin
Published: October 2023

Educational tourism in rural areas promotes local employment, economic development, and poverty alleviation. Given that there is a lack of research on emerging and developing nations, this study adopted the viewpoint of an emerging country and empirically demonstrates the relationships of consumer behavior with education tourism in rural areas. In particular, the study focused on push-pull motivation factors and loyalty. The mediating role of overall satisfaction on the relationship between push-pull motivation and loyalty was also investigated. The study extracted questions from a sample of 234 students in China and quantitatively analyzed the data using a structural equation model (SEM). The results show that pull motivation factors contribute directly to loyalty, and push motivation was the strongest construct influencing loyalty through overall satisfaction. The results show that in this field, managers need to pay more attention to push and pull motivation at different marketing stages.
Study on the Effect of Multi-span Pit Excavation on Supporting Structures Based on the Cutter Soil Mixing Method
Authors: Wu Jian , Shan Ye-Peng , Liu De-Jun , Su Yan-Lin , Wang Hua-Xiong , Cai Guo-Qing
Published: October 2023

The Cutter Soil Mixing (CSM) method, a relatively recent innovation, employs twin-wheel milling and profound agitating machinery for wall construction. In an endeavor to scrutinize the displacements and internal support stresses to the support structure during the excavation of a multi-span foundation pit founded upon the CSM method, a two-dimensional finite element model was established, utilizing the Midas GTS NX 2019 V1.2 finite element software. This model was grounded on a multi-span foundation pit excavation endeavor situated in the eastern expanse of China, where steel bracing and the CSM method assumed the preeminent mantle of support. A comprehensive scrutiny encompassed ten distinct working conditions, each juxtaposed and dissected to ascertain the displacements affecting the CSM wall and the forces exerted upon the support system during the foundation excavation process. The research findings manifest a certain interplay between the embedment depth of the CSM wall and the span of the pit excavation in shaping the displacement and support stresses within the supporting structure. While deeper embedment augments the potential for enhanced support outcomes, its efficacy remains constrained. As the embedment depth increases, the internal support moment and lateral displacement of the wall increase slightly. Taking a pit with a shallow embedded CSM wall as an example, wherein both the lateral and vertical displacements experience an ascent followed by a descent, culminating at the juncture of a four-span pit. Likewise, the axial force and bending moment exerted upon the steel supports undergo a similar trajectory, culminating with a two-span pit as the threshold. At the five-span, the maximum lateral displacement of the CSM wall exceeds that observed at the two-span by an increment of 21.14%. These findings offer invaluable insights into the embedment depth of diaphragm walls and the span of pit excavations, wielding profound implications for future undertakings akin to the foundation pits in question.
External Hydrogen Relations of the European Union: Framing Processes in the Public Discourse Towards and within Partner Countries
Authors: Plank Friedrich , Muntschick Johannes , Niemann Arne , Knodt Michèle
Published: October 2023

With the need to decarbonize sectors that have hard-to-abate emissions, hydrogen as an energy carrier has increasingly gained attention. Within the European Union (EU) and its member states, hydrogen is assumed to be key for decarbonizing different sectors in the fight against climate change. Hence, state and private actors have engaged in a variety of attempts, strategies, and interests. However, energy security in Europe cannot be managed by European energy supply alone, despite high targets for the expansion of renewable energies. Rather, the EU will have to continue to rely on energy imports from partner countries. Against this backdrop, this paper seeks to provide an analysis of frame promotion processes generated by the EU’s bet on hydrogen. Drawing on a discourse analysis that is based on more than 32,000 media reports generated through the database Nexis, it conceptualizes the media debate as a carrier of frame alignment efforts by actors with a specific focus on the debates concerning external partner countries. It thus focuses on the discourses on the EU’s hydrogen approach in a complex environment with diverging interests of stakeholders from inside and outside the EU, thereby examining debates that still need further empirical research.
Buckwheat Production and Value-Added Processing: A Review of Potential Western Washington Cropping and Food System Applications
Authors: Breslauer Rachel , Nalbandian Elizabeth , Reinman Tayler , Rezaey Mahvash , Ganjyal Girish M. , Murphy Kevin M.
Published: October 2023

Increasing cropping system diversity can promote agricultural sustainability; however, identifying suitable alternative crops for regional growing conditions, supply chains, and markets is challenging. This review considers the potential for buckwheat production and consumption in western Washington (WWA). Buckwheat production is modest in WWA but is promising as a weed suppressive summer crop in organic systems and a short-season alternative to cereal grains. Key challenges for production in the region include flood sensitivity and sensitivity to heat at seed set, which should be breeding targets in WWA. Other production challenges include access to suitable production, storage, and transportation equipment. Regarding end-use qualities, buckwheat is composed of ash (1.1–3.1%), moisture (7.6–11.7%), crude fat (0.9–5.4%), crude fiber (0.8–10.6%), protein (6.8–17.9%), and starch (65.6–76.8%). Information about buckwheat fraction (starch and protein) functionality is limited. Buckwheat has been tested in an array of products, including pasta, noodles, cakes, cookies, bread, and beer. To enhance the quality of buckwheat food products, various enzymes and activation ingredients including transglutaminase, xanthan gum, and calcium hydroxide have been explored. Simultaneously addressing these research gaps for food products and crop production systems will be critical to successfully investing in and developing a regional supply chain in WWA.
Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus: Survival and Disinfection Efficacy on Common Glasshouse Surfaces
Authors: Skelton Anna , Frew Leanne , Ward Richard , Hodgson Rachel , Forde Stephen , McDonough Sam , Webster Gemma , Chisnall Kiera , Mynett Mary , Buxton-Kirk Adam , Fowkes Aimee R. , Weekes Rebecca , Fox Adrian
Published: October 2023

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is a contact-transmitted tobamovirus affecting many tomato growing regions of the world. This study investigated the effects of different glasshouse surfaces on the survival of the virus; the efficacy of different disinfectants; and heat treatment against ToBRFV (surfaces included steel, aluminium, hard plastic, polythene, glass and concrete). A bioassay followed by ELISA was used to check virus viability. ToBRFV survived for at least 7 days on all surfaces tested and on some for at least 6 months. The virus survived for over two hours on hands and gloves. Hand washing was shown to be unreliable for the removal of the virus. Glutaraldehyde and quaternary ammonium compound disinfectants were effective at one hour on all surfaces. Some other disinfectants were effective at one hour of contact time, on all surfaces except concrete. Sodium hypochlorite was partially effective against ToBRFV, even on concrete. A 5 min soak of plastic trays in water at 90 °C was effective at denaturing ToBRFV; however, 5 min at 70 °C was not. Heating infected sap showed the thermal inactivation point to be 90 °C, confirming the hot water treatment results and showing that deactivation was due to the heat treatment and not a washing effect of the water.