bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Space Phasors Theory and the Conditions for the Correct Decoupling of Multiphase Machines
Authors: Serrano-Iribarnegaray Luis , Bonet-Jara Jorge
Published: January 2025

This paper first analyzes the general statements accepted in the technical literature concerning the complete dynamic decoupling of constant air-gap multiphase machines with space harmonics (usually resorting to the instantaneous symmetrical components, ISCs) and shows that they are not correct, since they only hold (and only with good approximation) for the particular case of converter-controlled machines. It then deduces in a rigorous theoretical way the correct conditions in all cases for both a precise and an approximate decoupling of multiphase machines and thereupon verifies them through numerous simulations. To do that, the Space Phasors Theory (SPhTh) is applied, whose true core, often unknown or misunderstood, is clearly explained. Preceding this point, the concept of the dynamic phasor of g sequence, which is a fundamental tool in the SPhTh, is introduced, and a necessary historical and critical review of the ISCs is undertaken.
Enhanced Non-Destructive Testing of Small Wind Turbine Blades Using Infrared Thermography
Authors: Memari Majid , Shekaramiz Mohammad , Masoum Mohammad A. S. , Seibi Abdennour C.
Published: January 2025

This study presents a foundational step in a broader initiative aimed at leveraging thermal imaging technology to enhance wind turbine maintenance, particularly focusing on the challenges of detecting defects and object localization in small wind turbine blades. Serving as a preliminary experiment, this research project tested methodologies and technologies on a smaller scale before advancing to more complex applications involving large, operational wind turbines using drone-mounted cameras. Utilizing thermal cameras suitable for both handheld and drone use, alongside advanced image processing applications, we navigated the significant challenge of acquiring high-quality thermal images to detect small defects. This required a concentrated analysis of a select subset of data and a methodological shift towards object detection and localization using the You Only Look Once (YOLO) model versions 8 and 9. This effort not only paves the way for applying these techniques to larger-scale turbines but also contributes to the ongoing development of an integrated maintenance strategy in the wind energy sector. Highlighting the critical impact of environmental conditions on thermal imaging, our research underscores the importance of continued exploration in this field, especially in enhancing object localization techniques for the future drone-based maintenance of operational wind turbine blades (WTBs).
Strict Stability of Fractional Differential Equations with a Caputo Fractional Derivative with Respect to Another Function
Authors: Agarwal Ravi P. , Hristova Snezhana , O’Regan Donal
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we study nonlinear systems of fractional differential equations with a Caputo fractional derivative with respect to another function (CFDF) and we define the strict stability of the zero solution of the considered nonlinear system. As an auxiliary system, we consider a system of two scalar fractional equations with CFDF and define a strict stability in the couple. We illustrate both definitions with several examples and, in these examples, we show that the applied function in the fractional derivative has a huge influence on the stability properties of the solutions. In addition, we use Lyapunov functions and their CFDF to obtain several sufficient conditions for strict stability.
Is N1-Methylnicotinamide a Good Organic Cation Transporter 2 (OCT2) Biomarker?
Authors: Ailabouni Anoud Sameer , Vijaywargi Gautam , Subash Sandhya , Singh Dilip Kumar , Gaborik Zsuzsanna , Prasad Bhagwat
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The impact of potential precipitant drugs on plasma or urinary exposure of endogenous biomarkers is emerging as an alternative approach to evaluating drug–drug interaction (DDI) liability. N1-Methylnicotinamide (NMN) has been proposed as a potential biomarker for renal organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2). NMN is synthesized in the liver from nicotinamide by nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) and is subsequently metabolized by aldehyde oxidase (AO). Multiple clinical studies have shown a reduction in NMN plasma concentration following the administration of OCT inhibitors such as cimetidine, trimethoprim, and pyrimethamine, which contrasts with their inhibition of NMN renal clearance by OCT2. We hypothesized that OCT1-mediated NMN release from hepatocytes is inhibited by the administration of OCT inhibitors. Methods: Re-analysis of the reported NMN pharmacokinetics with and without OCT inhibitor exposure was performed. We assessed the effect of cimetidine on NMN uptake in OCT1-HEK293 cells and evaluated the potential confounding effects of cimetidine on enzymes involved in NMN formation and metabolism. Results: A re-analysis of previous NMN pharmacokinetic DDI data suggests that NMN plasma systemic exposure decreased by 17–41% during the first 4 h following different OCT inhibitor administration except dolutegravir. Our findings indicate that NMN uptake was significantly higher (by 2.5-fold) in OCT1-HEK293 cells compared to mock cells, suggesting that NMN is a substrate of OCT1. Additionally, our results revealed that cimetidine does not inhibit NNMT and AO activity. Conclusions: Our findings emphasize the limitations of using NMN as an OCT2 biomarker and reveal potential mechanisms behind the reduction in NMN plasma levels associated with OCT inhibitors. Instead, our data suggest that NMN could be tested further as a potential biomarker for OCT1 activity.
Microneedle-Assisted Delivery of Curcumin: Evaluating the Effects of Needle Length and Formulation
Authors: Chaiprateep Em-on , Sengupta Soma , Keck Cornelia M.
Published: January 2025

Dermal drug delivery presents a significant challenge for poorly soluble active compounds like curcumin, which often struggle to penetrate the skin barrier effectively. In this study, the dermal penetration efficacy of curcumin nanocrystals and bulk suspensions when applied to skin using microneedles of varying lengths—0.25 mm, 0.5 mm, and 1.0 mm—was investigated in an ex vivo porcine ear model. The findings revealed that all formulations, in conjunction with microneedle application, facilitated transepidermal penetration; however, the combination of microneedles and curcumin nanocrystals demonstrated the highest efficacy. Notably, the 1.0 mm microneedle length provided optimal penetration, significantly enhancing curcumin delivery compared with bulk suspensions alone. Additionally, even the use of 0.25 mm microneedles resulted in a high level of efficiency, indicating that shorter microneedles can still effectively facilitate drug delivery. Overall, this study underscores the potential of microneedle technology in improving the transepidermal absorption of poorly soluble actives like curcumin, suggesting that the integration of nanocrystals with microneedles could enhance the therapeutic effects of topical curcumin applications.
Dielectrophoresis-Enhanced Microfluidic Device with Membrane Filter for Efficient Microparticle Concentration and Optical Detection
Authors: Nam Young-Ho , Lee Seung-Ki , Park Jae-Hyoung
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a novel microfluidic device that integrates dielectrophoresis (DEP) forces with a membrane filter to concentrate and trap microparticles in a narrow region for enhanced optical analysis. The device combines the broad particle capture capability of a membrane filter with the precision of DEP to focus particles in regions optimized for optical measurements. The device features transparent indium tin oxide (ITO) top electrodes on a glass substrate and gold (Au) bottom electrodes patterned on a small area of the membrane filter, with spacers to control the gaps between the electrodes. This configuration enables precise particle concentration at a specific location and facilitates real-time optical detection. Experiments using 0.8 μm fluorescent polystyrene (PS) beads and Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria demonstrated effective particle trapping and concentration, with fluorescence intensity increasing proportionally to particle concentration. The application of DEP forces in a small region of the membrane filter resulted in a significant enhancement of fluorescence intensity, showcasing the effectiveness of the DEP-enhanced design for improving particle concentration and optical measurement sensitivity. The device also showed promising potential for bacterial detection, particularly with E. coli, by achieving a linear increase in fluorescence intensity with increasing bacterial concentration. These results highlight the device’s potential for precise and efficient microparticle concentration and detection.
Complete Assignments of 1H and 13C NMR Chemical Shift Changes Observed upon Protection of Hydroxy Group in Borneol and Isoborneol and Their DFT Verification
Authors: Lyu Baohe , Hiraga Yoshikazu , Takagi Ryukichi , Niwayama Satomi
Published: January 2025

Complete assignments of the 1H and 13C NMR chemical shifts for the monoterpenes, borneol 1a and isoborneol 2a, as well as their derivatives (1b–1g and 2b–2g), in which the secondary hydroxy group is protected with various protecting groups, have been made in various solvents. Upon protection of the hydroxy groups in 1a and 2a, many protons and carbons within the bicyclic ring exhibited downfield or upfield shifts in their chemical shift values, facilitating the unambiguous assignments of these protons and carbons. These chemical shift values also showed excellent correlations with those obtained from density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Furthermore, the anisotropic effect of the benzene ring was estimated by the analysis of the iso-chemical shielding surface (ICSS) resulting from substituents introduced to the hydroxyl groups of 1a and 2a.
Exploring Efficient and Energy-Saving Microwave Chemical and Material Processes Using Amplitude-Modulated Waves: Pd-Catalyzed Reaction and Ag Nanoparticle Synthesis
Authors: Horikoshi Satoshi , Mitani Tomohiko , Serpone Nick
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the impact of a 10 kHz amplitude-modulation (AM) wave from a semiconductor microwave generator on the heating of ultrapure water and electrolyte aqueous solutions containing NaCl. It also examined the effects of AM waves on the yields of 4-methylbiphenyl (4-MBP) in the heterogeneous Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction, which was conducted in the presence of palladium nanoparticles supported on activated carbon (Pd/AC), as well as their influence on the growth rate during silver nanoparticle synthesis. Applying AM waves, typically used in telecommunications, enhanced heating efficiencies and improved product yields in both the chemical reaction and nanoparticle growth. Irradiating with microwaves under AM conditions allowed it to reduce power output while still achieving target yields and growth rates, even at the same temperatures without AM. This indicates the potential for highly efficient and energy-saving microwave processes in chemical reactions and material synthesis.
Identifying Dietary Triggers Among Individuals with Overweight and Obesity: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study
Authors: Chew Han Shi Jocelyn , Vashishtha Rakhi , Du Ruochen , Liaw Yan Xin , Gneezy Ayelet
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Excess adiposity, affecting 43% of the global adult population, is a major contributor to cardiometabolic diseases. Lifestyle behaviours, specifically dietary habits, play a key role in weight management. Real-time assessment methods such as Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) provide context-rich data that reduce recall bias and offer insights into dietary triggers and lapses. This study examines dietary triggers among adults with excess adiposity in Singapore using EMA, focusing on factors influencing dietary adherence and lapses. Methods: A total of 250 participants with a BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2 were recruited to track dietary habits for one week, at least three times a day, using the Eating Behaviour Lapse Inventory Survey Singapore (eBLISS) embedded within the Eating Trigger Response Inhibition Program (eTRIP© V.1) smartphone app. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of dietary adherence. Results: Of the 4708 responses, 76.4% of the responses were indicative of adherence to dietary plans. Non-adherence was primarily associated with food accessibility and negative emotions (stress, nervousness, and sadness). Factors such as meals prepared by domestic helpers and self-preparation were significantly associated with adherence. Negative emotions and premenstrual syndrome were identified as significant predictors of dietary lapses. Conclusions: EMA offers valuable insights into dietary behaviours by identifying real-time triggers for dietary lapses. Future interventions can utilise technology-driven approaches to predict and prevent lapses, potentially improving adherence and weight management outcomes.
Exploring Enablers of and Barriers to a Fruit and Vegetable Voucher Scheme in England: Insights from the Fresh Street Community Feasibility Study
Authors: Pan Jiang , Relton Clare , Howard Lisa , Garg Paridhi , Puranik Manik , Thomas Michelle , Bradbeer Jane , Sutton Rachel , Wagstaff Carol , Pettinger Clare
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Many deprived communities in the UK have low fruit and vegetable (FV) intake, leading to poor health outcomes. Fresh Street is a place-based voucher approach that enables households to buy FV from local independent suppliers. Fresh Street Community embeds this approach within community hubs, thus enabling households to use vouchers to purchase FV from community centres. This paper explores the enablers and barriers influencing the uptake of Fresh Street Community in two UK urban areas of high deprivation. Methods: This three-phase exploratory qualitative study was informed by ‘co-production’ with community researchers at both sites: (1) literature review and observations identifying enablers and barriers in FV voucher schemes; (2) semi-structured interviews and focus groups with the research team and community food researchers to ‘validate’ the factors identified in phase 1 and to develop explanatory narratives for these factors; and (3) participatory and thematic analysis of the enablers and barriers to finalise the identified factors. Results: A total of ten enablers and sixteen barriers were validated across both sites. However, differences in local contexts and operational procedures impacted future FV voucher scheme implementation. The important role of community food researchers to engage participants and support the synthesis of findings is also presented. Conclusions: This study offers practical and critical insights for researchers, community food researchers, and practitioners on factors that influence a community centre-based FV voucher scheme to address nutritional inequalities.
Cannabidiol in Foods and Food Supplements: Evaluation of Health Risks and Health Claims
Authors: Engeli Barbara E. , Lachenmeier Dirk W. , Diel Patrick , Guth Sabine , Villar Fernandez Maria A. , Roth Angelika , Lampen Alfonso , Cartus Alexander T. , Wätjen Wim , Hengstler Jan G. , Mally Angela
Published: January 2025

Background: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid present in the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.). Non-medicinal CBD oils with typically 5–40% CBD are advertised for various alleged positive health effects. While such foodstuffs containing cannabinoids are covered by the Novel Food Regulation in the European Union (EU), none of these products have yet been authorized. Nevertheless, they continue to be available on the European market. Methods: The Permanent Senate Commission on Food Safety (SKLM) of the German Research Foundation (DFG) reviewed the currently available data on adverse and potential beneficial effects of CBD in the dose range relevant for foods. Results: Increased liver enzyme activities were observed in healthy volunteers following administration of 4.3 mg CBD/kg bw/day and higher for 3–4 weeks. As lower doses were not tested, a no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) could not be derived, and the dose of 4.3 mg/kg bw/day was identified as the lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL). Based on the CBD content and dose recommendations of CBD products on the market, the SKLM considered several exposure scenarios and concluded that the LOAEL for liver toxicity may be easily reached, e.g., via consumption of 30 drops of an oil containing 20% CBD, or even exceeded. A critical evaluation of the available data on potential beneficial health effects of CBD in the dose range at or below the LOAEL of 4.3 mg/kg bw/day revealed no scientific evidence that would substantiate health claims, e.g., in relation to physical performance, the cardiovascular, immune, and nervous system, anxiety, relaxation, stress, sleep, pain, or menstrual health. Conclusions: The SKLM concluded that consumption of CBD-containing foods/food supplements may not provide substantiated health benefits and may even pose a health risk to consumers.
Specific Composition Diets and Improvement of Symptoms of Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases in Adulthood—Could the Comparison Between Diets Be Improved?
Authors: Guerrero Aznar M. Dolores , Villanueva Guerrero M. Dolores , Beltrán García Margarita , Hernández Cruz Blanca
Published: January 2025

Diet is considered a possible cofactor, which affects the immune system and potentially causes dysregulation of intestinal homeostasis and inflammation. This study aimed to review the quality of evidence on the effects of specific diet composition on symptoms of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs), including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), spondyloarthritis, multiple sclerosis (MS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) [remission maintenance of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis], psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in adult patients. We conducted a review of meta-analyses and Cochrane systematic reviews using PubMed and EMBASE, from inception to September 2024, and Google Scholar. The methodological quality of the meta-analyses was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 rating system. Three Cochrane systematic reviews and eight meta-analyses were evaluated. Some specific composition diets have been shown to reduce the symptoms of RA, IBD, and MS and improve activity parameters in IBD and RA, with critically low or low levels of evidence. The reduction in inflammatory biomarker levels is unclear. This review summarizes the global evidence for specific dietary interventions, mostly with anti-inflammatory properties due to their components, to improve IMID symptoms, clarifying the weaknesses of clinical trials and dietary meta-analyses with critically low or low levels of evidence; and shows the need to use indices such as the Dietary Inflammatory Index, which allows diets to be classified by their pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory food content, to better compare diet groups in clinical trials. The difficulty of obtaining high-level evidence from dietary studies is apparent and may delay the application of the results. Clinicians should be aware of the role of diets with anti-inflammatory properties as a complement to pharmacological treatments in IMIDs.
Total and Free Zinc Dynamics as Biomarkers for Neurological Impairment in Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Heller Raban Arved , Maares Maria , Chillon Thilo Samson , Witte Hanno , Al-Halabi Obada T. , Heene Stefan , Younsi Alexander , Haubruck Patrick , Schomburg Lutz , Moghaddam Arash , Biglari Bahram , Haase Hajo
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) profoundly impacts patients by precipitating a loss of motor and sensory capabilities, largely due to oxidative stress and inflammation during the secondary injury phase. Methods: This investigation explores the diagnostic potential of zinc (Zn) and free zinc (fZn) as biomarkers by analyzing their serum concentration dynamics in 48 TSCI individuals with TSCI, with the aim of correlating these levels with neurological impairment. Serum samples collected at admission, 4 h, 9 h, 12 h, 24 h, and 3 days post-injury were analyzed for total serum Zn and fZn concentrations. The patients were compared to a control group comprised of individuals with vertebral fractures but no neurological deficits. Results: The study revealed injury-specific fluctuations in Zn and fZn levels following TSCI, with significantly lower Zn levels observed post-TSCI compared to controls (p = 0.016). The American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment scale (AIS) assessments at admission and three months post-injury showed Zn level differences are linked to neurological recovery (AIS+:1 > AIS+:2, 0 h: p = 0.008; AIS+:0 < AIS+:1, 4 h: p = 0.016), highlighting the critical role of Zn and trace elements in the early remission process after TSCI. Notably, significant differences in fZn levels were detected between the control and TSCI groups (TSCI < Control; 12 h: p = 0.045; 24 h: p = 0.001; 3 d: p = 0.016), with the peak diagnostic performance of fZn at 24 h post-injury, as indicated by an Area Under the ROC Curve (AUC) of 83.84% (CI: 0.698–0.978). Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential of fZn as a biomarker to guide early diagnostic and therapeutic interventions aimed at mitigating secondary injury and enhancing recovery outcomes. This study contributes insights into the dynamics of serum Zn and its importance, holding specific diagnostic properties that could be critically relevant in the early phase of biomarker signature development for TSCI diagnostics and prognosis.
In Vitro and In Vivo Assessment of Pharmacokinetic Profile of Peramivir in the Context of Inhalation Therapy
Authors: Dong Liuhan , Hu Juanwen , Zhang Qiannan , Yang Mengmeng , Zhang Wenpeng , Zhuang Xiaomei
Published: January 2025

Objective: The aim was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and underlying mechanisms of peramivir, a clinically approved antiviral agent for severe influenza, subsequent to airway inhalation in rats, thereby surmounting the constraints associated with the sole currently available intravenous formulation. Methods: Pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution investigations of peramivir were carried out in rats following both intravenous and inhaled administration. In vitro cell models were verified to investigate peramivir’s transmembrane transport and cellular uptake across diverse cell systems. Results: In vivo, peramivir exhibited restricted permeability, predominantly localizing within the alveolar epithelial lining fluid and lung tissue after inhalation, accompanied by minimal systemic dissemination. In vitro, it manifested low permeability across cell models, with no participation of efflux transporters. Despite the low rate of A549 uptake, the underlying uptake transport mechanism was still revealed. Peramivir was verified as an OCTN2 substrate. A robust correlation was observed between the in vitro and in vivo findings. Conclusions: A preclinical pharmacokinetic platform applicable to inhaled medications was established. Inhalation of peramivir augments exposure at the target site while diminishing systemic exposure, presenting potential therapeutic benefits in terms of efficacy and safety and suggesting it as a favorable alternative administration pathway.
Andrographolide Sulfonates and Xiyanping: A Review of Chemical Composition, Pharmacological Activities, Clinical Applications, and Adverse Reactions
Authors: Li Zihong , Yao Lihao , Liu Zhenjie , Wang Liuping , Ruan Huini , Shen Yuanle , Zhang Peng , Li Kaitong , Wang Honglan , Fan Lili , Tu Liangxing , Feng Jianfang
Published: January 2025

Andrographis paniculata is a plant of the Acanthaceae family and its primary bioactive constituent, andrographolide, exhibits a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities and notable clinical efficacy. However, its poor solubility and limited bioavailability pose significant challenges for therapeutic applications. To overcome these limitations, researchers have synthesized andrographolide sulfonates by reacting andrographolide with ethanol and sulfuric acid. This sulfonated derivative significantly enhances water solubility and bioavailability while retaining key pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities. As a representative formulation, Xiyanping injection has been widely employed in the treatment of respiratory infections, pneumonia, and related conditions, playing a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite its widespread application, there has yet to be a comprehensive review of its chemical composition and pharmacological mechanisms. Additionally, the safety of Xiyanping injection remains a topic of some debate. This review systematically examines the chemical composition, pharmacological activities, clinical applications, and adverse reactions of andrographolide sulfonates and their formulation in Xiyanping injection to provide a scientific basis for further research and applications, while also offering valuable insights for the development of similar sulfonated drugs.
Creation of Bessel–Gaussian Beams from Necklace Beams via Second-Harmonic Generation
Authors: Dimitrov Nikolay , Hristov Kiril , Zhekova Maya , Dreischuh Alexander
Published: January 2025

The interest in (quasi-)nondiffracting beams is rooted in applications spanning from secure sharing cryptographic keys real-world free-space optical communications and high-order harmonic generation to high-aspect-ratio nanochannel machining, photopolymerization, and nanopatterning, just to mention a few. In this work, we explore the robustness of the approach for generating Bessel–Gaussian beams by Fourier transforming ring-shaped beams and push the limits further. Here, instead of ring-shaped beams, we use strongly azimuthally modulated necklace beams. Necklace structures are generated by interference of OV beams that carry equal topological charges of opposite signs. In order to effectively account for the azimuthal π-phase jumps in the necklace beams, we first generate their second harmonic, thereafter focusing (i.e., Fourier transforming) them with a thin lens. In this way, we successfully create Bessel–Gaussian beams in the second harmonic of a pump beam with strong azimuthal modulation. The experimental data presented are in good agreement with the developed analytical model.
NADES-in-Oil Emulsions Enriched with Essential Oils for Cosmetic Application
Authors: Freitas David S. , Rocha Diana , Santos Joana , Noro Jennifer , Tavares Tânia D. , Teixeira Marta O. , Araújo Daniela , Castro Joana , Almeida Carina , Silva Sónia , Felgueiras Helena P. , Ribeiro Artur , Venâncio Armando , Cavaco-Paulo Artur , Silva Carla
Published: January 2025

This research aims to explore the potential benefits of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) in formulating translucent NADES-in-oil emulsions (TEs) containing essential oils (EOs) for cosmetic applications. The TEs investigated in this study are based on previous formulations, consisting of 50 wt.% egg phosphatidylcholine (EPC), 20 wt.% ethanol, 20 wt.% olive oil (OlO), thyme oil (TO), or oregano oil (OrO), and 10 wt.% NADES made from a 1:1 or 1:4 ratio of lactic acid and glycerol (LA). These emulsions exhibit high antioxidant activity, attributed to the terpenes present in the essential oils, such as thymol in TO and carvacrol in OrO. The TEs containing TO and OrO demonstrated a more fluid consistency, along with a more appealing texture and fragrance compared to the OlO control. Additionally, these emulsions exhibited the ability to permeate pig skin, as well as significant antifungal and antibacterial activity, and low toxicity in the Galleria mellonella larval model. Overall, the findings expand the potential applications of NADES, particularly in the development of translucent emulsions with EO for treating microbial skin and nail infections.
Multiscale Spatial–Spectral Dense Residual Attention Fusion Network for Spectral Reconstruction from Multispectral Images
Authors: Liu Moqi , Zhang Wenjuan , Pan Haizhu
Published: January 2025

Spectral reconstruction (SR) from multispectral images (MSIs) is a crucial task in remote sensing image processing, aiming to enhance the spectral resolution of MSIs to produce hyperspectral images (HSIs). However, most existing deep learning-based SR methods primarily focus on deeper network architectures, often overlooking the importance of extracting multiscale spatial and spectral features in the MSIs. To bridge this gap, this paper proposes a multiscale spatial–spectral dense residual attention fusion network (MS2Net) for SR. Specifically, considering the multiscale nature of the land-cover types in the MSIs, a three-dimensional multiscale hierarchical residual module is designed and embedded in the head of the proposed MS2Net to extract spatial and spectral multiscale features. Subsequently, we employ a two-pathway architecture to extract deep spatial and spectral features. Both pathways are constructed with a single-shot dense residual module for efficient feature learning and a residual composite soft attention module to enhance salient spatial and spectral features. Finally, the spatial and spectral features extracted from the different pathways are integrated using an adaptive weighted feature fusion module to reconstruct HSIs. Extensive experiments on both simulated and real-world datasets demonstrate that the proposed MS2Net achieves superior performance compared to state-of-the-art SR methods. Moreover, classification experiments on the reconstructed HSIs show that the proposed MS2Net-reconstructed HSIs achieve classification accuracy that is comparable to that of real HSIs.
Towards a Unified Identifier of Satellite Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Wang Jiahe , Wu Jin , Wu Mingbo , Lu Yuxiang , Lu Shangwen , Zhu Dayong , Zhou Chenghu
Published: January 2025

The rapid growth of Earth observation technologies has resulted in over 2000 operational remote sensing satellites, collectively generating an exabyte-scale volume of data. However, despite the availability of large data-sharing platforms, global remote sensing imagery still faces challenges in seamless access, precise querying, and efficient retrieval. To address these limitations, this study introduces the concept of the “Digital Imagery Object” (DIO) and develops a unified identification framework for satellite remote sensing imagery. The proposed approach establishes a structured identification and parsing system based on core metadata, including data acquisition platforms and imaging timestamps. This enhances the consistency and standardization of multisource imagery encoding, enabling unified identification and interpretation under a common set of rules. The system’s feasibility and effectiveness were demonstrated through the integration and management of diverse global datasets, highlighting its ability to streamline multisource data workflows. By supporting standardized management and one-click parsing, this framework facilitates efficient imagery sharing and lays the foundation for its use as a tradable digital resource on the internet. The study offers a practical solution for addressing current challenges in remote sensing imagery management, paving the way for improved accessibility and interoperability of Earth observation data.
Temporal and Spatial Variations in the Thermal Front in the Beibu Gulf in Winter
Authors: Sun Ruili , Song Xindi , He Shuangyan , Li Peiliang , Gu Yanzhen , Zhou Chaojie
Published: January 2025

Using satellite-observed data and reanalysis data, we studied the spatiotemporal variation characteristics and dynamic mechanisms of thermal fronts in the Beibu Gulf (TFIBG). TFIBG occur in December, reach their strongest point in January in the following year, and then gradually weaken until they completely disappear in May. Their formation is related to the bathymetry of the Beibu Gulf. In winter, the seawater in shallow-water areas (deep-water areas) cools down more (less), and Ekman currents concurrently transport warm water from the central basin of the Beibu Gulf to the west coast, which results in the formation of a thermal front at the junction of cold and warm water. The interannual variation in TFIBG intensity is related to the northeast monsoon. The strengthened (weakened) Ekman current caused by the northeast monsoon transports more (less) warm water from the central basin of the Beibu Gulf to the west coast, forming a strong (weak) thermal front at the junction of cold and warm water on an interannual scale. The upward trend of TFIBG intensity may be related to the regional heterogeneity of climate warming. This research systematically studied TFIBG, which will help improve people’s understanding of the thermal front in the South China Sea (SCS).
Pattern-Based Sinkhole Detection in Arid Zones Using Open Satellite Imagery: A Case Study Within Kazakhstan in 2023
Authors: Aigner Simone , Hauser Sarah , Schmitt Andreas
Published: January 2025

Sinkholes are significant geohazards in karst regions that pose risks to landscapes and infrastructure by disrupting geological stability. Usually, sinkholes are mapped by field surveys, which is very cost-intensive with regard to vast coverages. One possible solution to derive sinkholes without entering the area is the use of high-resolution digital terrain models, which are also expensive with respect to remote areas. Therefore, this study focusses on the mapping of sinkholes in arid regions from open-access remote sensing data. The case study involves data from the Sentinel missions over the Mangystau region in Kazakhstan provided by the European Space Agency free of cost. The core of the technique is a multi-scale curvature filter bank that highlights sinkholes (and takyrs) by their very special illumination pattern in Sentinel-2 images. Marginal confusions with vegetation shadows are excluded by consulting the newly developed Combined Vegetation Doline Index based on Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2. The geospatial analysis reveals distinct spatial correlations among sinkholes, takyrs, vegetation, and possible surface discharge. The generic and, therefore, transferable approach reached an accuracy of 92%. However, extensive reference data or comparable methods are not currently available.
Direct Writing of Quasi-Sinusoidal and Blazed Surface Relief Optical Transmission Gratings in Bi12GeO20, Er: LiNbO3 and Er: Fe: LiNbO3 Crystals by Nitrogen Ion Microbeams of 5 MeV and 10.5 MeV Energy
Authors: Bányász István , Nagy Gyula , Havránek Vladimir , Pujol Maria Cinta , Nagyné Szokol Ágnes , Kármán György , Magnusson Robert , Rajta István
Published: January 2025

High diffraction efficiency optical transmission gratings with quasi-sinusoidal and saw-tooth surface relief profiles were fabricated in Bi12GeO20, Er: LiNbO3 and Er: Fe: LiNbO3 crystals by ion beam implantation. The gratings were directly written by nitrogen ion microbeams at energies of 5 MeV and 10.5 MeV. The finest grating constant was 4 μm. Grating constants for the majority of the gratings were 16 μm. The highest amplitudes of the gratings reached 1600 nm. The highest first-order diffraction efficiency obtained in a sinusoidal grating was 25%, close to the theoretical maximum of 33%. The highest first-order diffraction efficiency of a blazed grating was also 25%, without Littrow optimization. Such gratings can be incorporated into integrated optical biosensors.
Monitoring Welfare of Individual Broiler Chickens Using Ultra-Wideband and Inertial Measurement Unit Wearables
Authors: Khan Imad , Peralta Daniel , Fontaine Jaron , Soster de Carvalho Patricia , Martos Martinez-Caja Ana , Antonissen Gunther , Tuyttens Frank , De Poorter Eli
Published: January 2025

Monitoring animal welfare on farms and in research settings is attracting increasing interest, both for ethical reasons and for improving productivity through the early detection of stress or diseases. In contrast to video-based monitoring, which requires good light conditions and has difficulty tracking specific animals, recent advances in the miniaturization of wearable devices allow for the collection of acceleration and location data to track individual animal behavior. However, for broilers, there are several challenges to address when using wearables, such as coping with (i) the large numbers of chickens in commercial farms,(ii)the impact of their rapid growth, and (iii) the small weights that the devices must have to be carried by the chickens without any impact on their health or behavior. To this end, this paper describes a pilot study in which chickens were fitted with devices containing an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) sensor. To establish guidelines for practitioners who want to monitor broiler welfare and activity at different scales, we first compare the attachment methods of the wearables to the broiler chickens, taking into account their effectiveness (in terms of retention time) and their impact on the broiler’s welfare. Then, we establish the technical requirements to carry out such a study, and the challenges that may arise. This analysis involves aspects such as noise estimation, synergy between UWB and IMU, and the measurement of activity levels based on the monitoring of chicken activity. We show that IMU data can be used for detecting activity level differences between individual animals and environmental conditions. UWB data can be used to monitor the positions and movement patterns of up to 200 animals simultaneously with an accuracy of less than 20 cm. We also show that the accuracy depends on installation aspects and that errors are larger at the borders of the monitored area. Attachment with sutures had the longest mean retention of 19.5 days, whereas eyelash glue had the shortest mean retention of 3 days. To conclude the paper, we identify current challenges and future research lines in the field.
Education for Global Citizenship Towards the New European Education Area
Authors: Ancheta-Arrabal Ana , Preckler Galguera Miriam
Published: January 2025

Over the last decades, many European educational systems have been reviewing the citizenship education model that they have been developing, trying to deepen the meaning of democratic citizenship practice today or the social demand inspired by the creation of adequate conditions for its exercise. Thus, it is challenging for educational systems to face education for global citizenship, and international organizations have been promoting the development of citizenship education and conducting research in this field. New research and educational practices are expected for global citizenship, and their meaning in our European societies is a point of reference for the study of the different policies that national and supranational institutions promote in this matter. The Council of Europe Charter on Education for Democratic Citizenship and Human Rights Education from 2010 and its counterpart framework from UNESCO in 2015 have actively promoted the idea of citizenship education on a global scale through its Global Citizenship Education Model. The International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) conducted a series of reports on social and civic competencies to investigate the extent to which young people are prepared to assume their role as citizens, which recently has been reviewed by Schulz et al. Based on its main findings and the latest survey by the European EACEA/Eurydice from 2023 that covers 15 member countries of the Eurydice Network, this paper presents a cross-national study of the global citizenship education (GCE) between European Countries that updates recent national information and research developments in this field. Based on the analyzed data and the criteria established by UNESCO, the comparative study allows us to determine the dimensions and trends in global citizenship education in order to address its implications within the European education area.
The Issues of Carbon Pricing in the Russian Federation: The Local and International Perspectives Under the Cost Approach and the Role of Afforestation Projects
Authors: Artemenkov Andrey , Medvedeva Olga E. , Pavlov Alexander N. , Ganiev Omonjon
Published: January 2025

This paper discusses the role of afforestation projects and other climate technologies in the green agenda for Russia and aims to justify the anchoring of jurisdictional carbon pricing in the cost approach to valuation, specifically, with reference to the cost economics for afforestation projects given their centrality to the agenda. Through that, and due to the inchoate state of carbon pricing in the study jurisdiction, this paper aims to advance price discovery for national carbon credits in both compliance and voluntary schemes. The cost approach framework, moderated by international market comparisons, indicates the fair price of carbon in Russian jurisdiction at the level of USD 20–25 per tonne of CO2-eq, which is close to the global median but is more than double the amount of carbon levies set under the Sakhalin GHG quota experiment. It is argued that unless such a fair price for carbon is set in the country, the national carbon credits market will not achieve viable growth, nor will sustainable development be advanced, and funds for it be adequately collected. This represents a relevant contribution to the literature on the development of the national carbon credit markets.
Research on the Nested Structure and Substitution Elasticity of China’s Power Energy Sources
Authors: Wang Shan , Zhang Keyu
Published: January 2025

In alignment with China’s “carbon peak and carbon neutrality” goals, carbon reduction and energy structure transformation are central priorities. As a major emitter, the power industry plays a key role in this transition, and identifying effective pathways for its green energy transformation is essential to driving broader industrial green transformation and ensuring sustainable development. This article calculates the elasticity of substitution between clean and non-clean energy within China’s power sector from 1993 to 2021, employing the kernel density estimation method. By further comparing the goodness-of-fit across various nested structures of clean energy sources, the study identifies the optimal internal nested structure and examines the interactions among its components. The results underscore two key insights: on the one hand, a robust substitutive relationship exists between clean and non-clean energy, with the substitution elasticity of 1.646, exhibiting pronounced regional heterogeneity characterized as “weaker in the east and stronger in the west”; on the other hand, the optimal nested structure of clean energy is identified as (hydropower + nuclear power)—wind power—solar power. In this structure, the elements display a substitutive relationship in the Eastern Region, while in the Western Region, they exhibit a complementary relationship.
It’s Scary to Use It, It’s Scary to Refuse It: The Psychological Dimensions of AI Adoption—Anxiety, Motives, and Dependency
Authors: Frenkenberg Adi , Hochman Guy
Published: January 2025

The current study examines the psychological factors shaping AI adoption, focusing on anxiety, motivation, and dependency. It identifies two dimensions of AI anxiety: anticipatory anxiety, driven by fears of future disruptions, and annihilation anxiety, reflecting existential concerns about human identity and autonomy. We demonstrate a U-shaped relationship between AI anxiety and usage, where moderate engagement reduces anxiety, and high or low levels increase it. Perceived utility, interest, and attainment significantly correlate with AI engagement, while frequent AI usage is linked to high dependency but not to anxiety. These findings highlight the dual role of psychological factors in hindering and alleviating AI usage. This study enriches the understanding of emotional and motivational drivers in AI adoption and highlights the importance of balanced implementation strategies to foster sustainable and effective AI integration while mitigating the risks of over-reliance.
The Effects of Enterprises’ E-Business Adoptions on Cross-Border Firm Internationalization
Authors: Xu Yan , Pan Haiying
Published: January 2025

Nowadays, in the complex business network system, the interaction of firms across borders is facing several challenges. Many studies in the literature also suggest numerous approaches to overcome these challenges. However, a few of the obstacles for internationalizing firms were studied and the challenges are increasing against firms’ growth opportunities cross-border. Taking this into account, the present research emphasized the roles of enterprises’ e-business adoptions of countries on cross-border firms’ internationalization by drawing from network theory and technology–organization–environment frames. By employing a fixed effect model to 365 enterprises, leaders’ attitudes of preferring technology-intensive firms, network infrastructure, risk-averting attitudes, country’s market size, multilingual services, e-government status, threats from competitors, reliable utility sources, human capital quality, costs of adoptions and telecom services enrichments, and costs of adopting different online services need to be taken into account before internationalization of born global companies.
Solid-State Transformers: A Review—Part II: Modularity and Applications
Authors: Predescu Dragoș-Mihail , Roșu Ștefan-George
Published: January 2025

The Solid-State Transformer (SST) is a complex conversion device that intends to replace the Low-Frequency Transformers (LFTs) used in various power applications with Medium- or High-Frequency Transformers (MFTs/HFTs) that integrate modular converter structures as their input and output stages. The purpose is to obtain additional capabilities, such as power factor correction, voltage control, and interconnection of distributed supplies, among others, while reducing the overall volume. Given the expansive research conducted in this area in the past years, the volume of information available is large, so the main contribution of this paper is a new method of classification based on the modular construction of the SST derived from its applications and available constructive degrees of freedom. This paper can be considered the second part of a broader review in which the first part presented the fundamental converter roles and topologies. As a continuation, this paper aims to expand the definition of modularity to the entire SST structure and analyze how the converters can be combined in order to achieve the desired SST functionality. Three areas of interest are chosen: partitioning of power, phase modularity, and port configuration. The partitioning of power analyzes the fundamental switching cells and the arrangement of the converters across stages. Phase modularity details the construction of multiphase-system SSTs. Finally, the types of input/output ports, their placements, and roles are discussed. These characteristics are presented together with the applications in which they were suggested to give a broader context.