bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Winter Wheat Yield Estimation Based on Multi-Temporal and Multi-Sensor Remote Sensing Data Fusion
Authors: Li Yang , Zhao Bo , Wang Jizhong , Li Yanjun , Yuan Yanwei
Published: November 2023

Accurate yield estimation before the wheat harvest is very important for precision management, maintaining grain market stability, and ensuring national food security. In this study, to further improve the accuracy of winter wheat yield estimation, machine learning models, including GPR, SVR, and DT, were employed to construct yield estimation models based on the single and multiple growth periods, incorporating the color and multispectral vegetation indexes. The results showed the following: (1) Overall, the performance and accuracy of the yield estimation models based on machine learning were ranked as follows: GPR, SVR, DT. (2) The combination of color indexes and multispectral vegetation indexes effectively improved the yield estimation accuracy of winter wheat compared with the multispectral vegetation indexes and color indexes alone. The accuracy of the yield estimation models based on the multiple growth periods was also higher than that of the single growth period models. The model with multiple growth periods and multiple characteristics had the highest accuracy, with an R2 of 0.83, an RMSE of 297.70 kg/hm2, and an rRMSE of 4.69%. (3) For the single growth period, the accuracy of the yield estimation models based on the color indexes was lower than that of the yield estimation models based on the multispectral vegetation indexes. For the multiple growth periods, the accuracy of the models constructed by the two types of indexes was very close, with R2 of 0.80 and 0.80, RMSE of 330.37 kg/hm2 and 328.95 kg/hm2, and rRMSE of 5.21% and 5.19%, respectively. This indicates that the low-cost RGB camera has good potential for crop yield estimation. Multi-temporal and multi-sensor remote sensing data fusion can further improve the accuracy of winter wheat yield estimation and provide methods and references for winter wheat yield estimation.
Copper and Cadmium Accumulation and Phytorextraction Potential of Native and Cultivated Plants Growing around a Copper Smelter
Authors: Dou Changming , Cui Hongbiao , Zhang Wei , Yu Wenli , Sheng Xue , Zheng Xuebo
Published: November 2023

Phytoextraction is a promising technology for remediating heavy metal-contaminated soil. Continuously screening potential plants is important for enhancing the efficiency of remediation. In this study, fourteen local native plant species and four cultivated plant species, along with their paired soils, were collected from around a copper smelter. The characteristics of soil pollution were evaluated using contaminant factors (CF) and a geoaccumulation index (Igeo). The phytoextraction potential of plants was investigated using the translocation factor (TF) and bioconcentration factor (BCF). The soils around the smelter were very acidic, with a mean pH of 5.01. The CF for copper and cadmium were 8.67–32.3 and 5.45–44.2, and the Igeo values for copper and cadmium were 2.43–4.43 and −0.12–2.29, respectively, indicating that the level of soil contamination was moderate to severe. The copper concentrations in the root (357 mg/kg), shoot (219 mg/kg), and leaf (269 mg/kg) of Elsholtzia splendens Nakai were higher than that in the other species. The cadmium in the shoot (32.2 mg/kg) and leaf (18.5 mg/kg) of Sedum plumbizincicola was the highest, and Phytolacca acinosa Roxb. had the highest cadmium level (20 mg/kg) in the root. Soil total and CaCl2-extractable copper and cadmium were positively correlated with copper and cadmium in the plant roots, respectively. The results of TF and BCF for copper and cadmium suggested that the accumulation and translocation capacities for cadmium were higher than those of copper in the eighteen plant species. Although not all plants met the criteria of being hyperaccumulators, Sedum plumbizincicola, Mosla chinensis Maxim, and Elsholtzia splendens Nakai showed the most potential as candidates for the phytoextraction of copper and cadmium contaminated soils, as indicated by their TF and BCF values.
Assessment of Early, Mid-Early, and Mid-Late Soybean (Glycine max) Varieties in Northern Poland
Authors: Banaś Konrad , Osiecka Agnieszka , Lenartowicz Tomasz , Łacka Agnieszka , Bujak Henryk , Przystalski Marcin
Published: November 2023

The soybean crop (Glycine max) is known for its high oil and protein content, making it a valuable resource for animal feed and a crucial ingredient in vegan and vegetarian food products. Soybean is a thermophilic short-day plant, demanding specific climatic conditions for successful cultivation. In an effort to expand soybean cultivation to northern regions, a variety of trials were conducted. The aim of this study was to determine the most suitable soybean varieties for cultivation in Northern Poland. The field trials were conducted in nine locations, in the years 2020–2022. Yield, fat content, and protein content were the observed characteristics. Results for 13 varieties had been collected and were analysed using the AMMI model. The genotype–environment interaction provides information that supports estimations of the stability of certain varieties. AMMI-adjusted means, WTOP3, WAAS and GSI indices were calculated in order to assess the suitability of those varieties for cultivation in Northern Poland. It was shown that the Amiata variety had the highest mean yield among the tested varieties, whilst the Erica variety was the most stable. The Abelina variety had the lowest value of the GSI index. For fat content, the Ambella variety had the highest mean and the lowest values of the GSI index, whereas the ES Comandor variety was the most stable. For protein content, the Nessie PZO variety had the highest mean, the Aurelina variety was the most stable and had the lowest values of the GSI index. Thus, the Abelina, Ambella, and Aurelina varieties are the most favourable varieties for cultivation in that region.
Enhancing Fuel Properties of Napier Grass via Carbonization: A Comparison of Vapothermal and Hydrothermal Carbonization Treatments
Authors: Moloeznik Paniagua Daniela , Libra Judy A. , Rotter Vera Susanne , Ro Kyoung S. , Fischer Marcus , Linden Julia
Published: November 2023

Napier grass is a herbaceous biomass that can be used as biofuel; however, its high ash, potassium, sulfur and chlorine content may cause problems when combusted. Napier grass was submitted to vapothermal carbonization (VTC) and hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) processes at 190 and 220 °C to compare their ability to enhance its fuel properties. The different water distribution between phases in the two processes was verified: up to 14.5% of the water vaporized to steam in the VTC ran at 220 °C, while over 99% of the water remained in the liquid state and in contact with the solids during all HTC runs. Both processes improved the calorific value of the Napier grass (up to 20.6% for VTC220 and up to 29.8% for HTC220) due to the higher C content in the chars. Both processes reduced the sulfur content, removing up to 15.3% of it with VTC190 and 28.5% of it with HTC190 compared to that of Napier grass. In contrast, the two processes had different effects on the ash and chlorine content. While HTC removed both ash and Cl from the Napier grass, VTC concentrated it in the chars (ash: 5.6%wt. Napier grass, 3.3%wt. HTC chars, 7.1%wt. VTC; chlorine: 1.08%wt. Napier grass, 0.19%wt. HTC chars, 1.24%wt. VTC). Only the HTC process leached high percentages of Cl (up to 80%), S (up to 70%), sodium (Na, up to 80%) and potassium (K, up to 90%) into the process water. This may prevent fouling and slagging problems when burning HTC char. The biofuel qualities of the raw Napier grass, VTC, and HTC chars were evaluated using two standards: the international standard for solid biofuels, EN ISO 17225, and the Korean regulation for biomass solid recovered fuels (Bio-SRF). Napier grass and VTC chars presented problems regarding Cl content thresholds for both EN ISO 17225 and Bio-SRF. Both VTC and HTC chars along with the Napier grass fulfilled the requirements for heavy metals (Pb, Ni, Cr, and Cd) except for copper. The choice of process in practical applications will depend on the goal; HTC improves fuel quality and VTC has higher high solid, carbon and energy yields.
Getting to the Meat of It: The Effects of a Captive Diet upon the Skull Morphology of the Lion and Tiger
Authors: Cooper David M. , Yamaguchi Nobuyuki , Macdonald David W. , Patterson Bruce D. , Salkina Galina P. , Yudin Viktor G. , Dugmore Andrew J. , Kitchener Andrew C.
Published: November 2023

Zoo animals are crucial for conserving and potentially re-introducing species to the wild, yet it is known that the morphology of captive animals differs from that of wild animals. It is important to know how and why zoo and wild animal morphology differs to better care for captive animals and enhance their survival in reintroductions, and to understand how plasticity may influence morphology, which is supposedly indicative of evolutionary relationships. Using museum collections, we took 56 morphological measurements of skulls and mandibles from 617 captive and wild lions and tigers, reflecting each species’ recent historical range. Linear morphometrics were used to identify differences in size and shape. Skull size does not differ between captive and wild lions and tigers, but skull and mandible shape does. Differences occur in regions associated with biting, indicating that diet has influenced forces acting upon the skull and mandible. The diets of captive big cats used in this study predominantly consisted of whole or partial carcasses, which closely resemble the mechanical properties of wild diets. Thus, we speculate that the additional impacts of killing, manipulating and consuming large prey in the wild have driven differentiation between captive and wild big cats.
Effect of Fermented Concentrate on Ruminal Fermentation, Ruminal and Fecal Microbiome, and Growth Performance of Beef Cattle
Authors: Lee Seul , Ryu Chae Hwa , Back Youl Chang , Lee Sung Dae , Kim Hyeran
Published: November 2023

The impact of fermented concentrate on the growth and rumen health of beef cattle remains an area of emerging research. This study aimed to assess the influence of a fermented concentrate (TRT) compared to a conventional concentrate (CON) on the growth, rumen fermentation characteristics, and microbiota composition in Korean cattle. Using a crossover design, eight cattle were alternately fed TRT and CON diets, with subsequent analysis of feed components, rumen fermentation parameters, and microbial profiles. TRT and CON diets did not differ significantly in their effect on animal growth metrics. However, the TRT diet was associated with reduced digestibility of rapidly degradable carbohydrates and modified rumen fermentation patterns, as evidenced by an elevated pH and increased acetate-to-propionate ratio (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the TRT diet increased the abundance of lactic acid bacteria, Bacillus, and yeast and organic acid levels in the rumen (p < 0.05). Moreover, Lachnospiraceae and Bacteroidales populations in the rumen and fecal Akkermansia abundance increased in the TRT group compared to the CON group. These microbial changes suggest a potential enhancement of the immune system and overall health of the host. Further research on the long-term implications of incorporating fermented concentrate into cattle diets is warranted.
Cytological Analysis of Crossover Frequency and Distribution in Male Meiosis of Cardueline Finches (Fringillidae, Aves)
Authors: Grishko Ekaterina , Malinovskaya Lyubov , Slobodchikova Anastasia , Kotelnikov Artemiy , Torgasheva Anna , Borodin Pavel
Published: November 2023

Meiotic recombination is an important source of genetic diversity. Using immunolocalization of several meiotic proteins at the spreads of male pachytene cells, we estimated the number of recombination nodules per cell and their distribution along the macrochromosome 1 of the Common linnet, Eurasian bullfinch, Eurasian siskin, and European goldfinch. The macrochromosomes of the two former species have metapolycentromeres, composed of several centromeric domains. We detected significant interspecies differences in the mean numbers of recombination nodules per genome: 52.9 ± 2.8 in the linnet, 49.5 ± 3.5 in the bullfinch, 61.5 ± 6.3 in the siskin and 52.2 ± 2.7 in the goldfinch. Recombination patterns on macrochromosome 1 were similar across species, with more nodules localized near chromosome ends and fewer around centromeres. The distance from the proximal nodule to the centromere depended on the nodule count per chromosome arm, with more events leading to a closer location. However, species with different centromere types showed no difference in this regard. We propose that the deficiency of recombination sites near centromeres could be due to the sequential occurrence of crossovers starting from the chromosome ends and may not be attributed to any suppressive effect of the centromere itself.
The Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Merremia umbellata Extract
Authors: Lee Sunny Chung , Ahn Jongmin , Kim Jina , Lee Joo-Yeon , Kim Juhae , Uddin Md. Salah , Lee Sang Woo , Kim Choon Young
Published: November 2023

Merremia umbellata Hallier f. (MU) has been used as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat burns and scales. However, the potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action of this plant have not been elucidated. This study aimed to assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the leaf and shoot of MU grown in Bangladesh. The MU extract exhibited antioxidant activities as demonstrated by DPPH and ABTS free-radical-scavenging activities and the total polyphenol and total flavonoid contents. MU extract significantly reduced the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW264.7 macrophage. Accordingly, the gene levels of inducible NO synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 were suppressed. The MU extract alleviated the LPS-induced expression of TLR4, NF-κB, and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β). The constituents of a MU extract were tentatively identified using UHPLC-PDA-QTOF/MS techniques. The main compounds were identified as 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, quercitrin, and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid. Molecular docking analysis revealed that these compounds interact with TLR4 protein, with quercitrin showing the highest binding affinity among them. Overall, our findings demonstrate the antioxidant and in vitro anti-inflammatory activities of MU and its potential compounds to target the TLR4-NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings are potentially used to further explore promising natural food ingredients that are effective in regulating inflammation.
Design and Kinematic Analysis of Deployable Antenna for Bionic Bird Tail Feather
Authors: Xie Hualong , Feng Yuqing , Zhao Junfeng , Ma Xiaofei
Published: November 2023

The application field of space deployable antennas covers mobile communication, navigation, deep space exploration, etc. The traditional space deployable antenna mechanism deploys in a fixed way and mostly in a circular direction in order to expand the space deployable antenna configuration; this paper summarizes the bionic principle that can be used for antenna structure design by studying the tail feather deploying behavior of birds such as peacocks and proposes a new parabolic antenna configuration that imitates the tail feather deploying of birds. The kinematic model of the deployable mechanism is established, and kinematic analysis of the deployable process is carried out on the key rods. The simulation of the rod motion is carried out using ADAMS 2020 software, and the angle change results obtained from the simulation are compared with MATLAB 2020b to verify the correctness of the kinematic equations. The deployment trajectories of the innermost and outermost rib endpoints are analyzed, and the spatial arrangement of the antenna is determined to be in the range of 4 m × 3.5 m. This is a solid foundation for the development of spatially deployable antennas.
Multilevel Regularization Method for Building Outlines Extracted from High-Resolution Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Kong Linghui , Qian Haizhong , Xie Limin , Huang Zhekun , Qiu Yue , Bian Chenglin
Published: November 2023

Extraction of vectorized building outlines from high-resolution remote sensing images is highly useful for various application fields, such as map creation and urban planning. However, this process is often complicated by external factors, such as trees and shadows, which cause issues, such as excessive node redundancy, jagged lines, and unclear corner points. In this study, a multilevel regularization method was designed for building outlines, including the “overall–local–detail” levels. First, overall regularization was performed by combining the minimum bounding rectangle of the building outline with the Hausdorff distance method. Next, based on the convex hull of the building outline and the distribution characteristics of nodes along the outline, the building outline was divided into multiple line chains and classified for local regularization. Finally, the details of the building outline were processed, with the parallel and perpendicular characteristics enhanced to obtain the final regularization results. The experimental results showed that the proposed method effectively enhances the edge representation accuracy of building outlines and significantly improves the accuracy and regularity of building edges. Furthermore, it strengthens the orthogonal characteristics of building outlines, providing more accurate representations of true building outlines.
Optimization of Data-Driven Soil Temperature Forecast—The First Model in Bangladesh
Authors: Das Lipon Chandra , Zhang Zhihua , Crabbe M. James C.
Published: November 2023

Soil temperature patterns are of great importance for any agro-based economy like Bangladesh since they significantly affect biological, chemical, and physical processes that take place in the soil. Unfortunately, there have been no forecast studies on soil temperature in Bangladesh until now. In this article, we used five tree-based models (decision tree, random forest, gradient boosting tree, a hybrid of decision tree and gradient boosting tree, and a hybrid of random forest and gradient boosting tree) to mine strong links among different meteorological factors and soil temperature at different time window sizes. We found that a hybrid of random forest and gradient boosting tree with all the meteorological factors and a five-day time window is optimal for forecasting soil temperature at depths of 10 cm and 30 cm for all lead times (one, three, or five days), whereas the random forest with the same input scenario and time window is optimal for forecasting soil temperature at a depth of 50 cm for long lead times (five days). Since our study includes the first soil temperature forecast model in Bangladesh, it provides valuable insights for agricultural soil management, fertilizer application, and water resource optimization in Bangladesh, as well as in other South Asian countries that share the same climate patterns as Bangladesh.
Binocular Vision-Based Pole-Shaped Obstacle Detection and Ranging Study
Authors: Cai Lei , Zhou Congling , Wang Yongqiang , Wang Hao , Liu Boyu
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: In real road scenarios, various complex environmental conditions may occur, including bright lights, nighttime, rain, and snow. In such a complex environment for detecting pole-shaped obstacles, it is easy to lose the feature information. A high rate of leakage detection, false positives, and measurement errors are generated as a result. (2) Methods: The first part of this paper utilizes the improved YOLOv5 algorithm to detect and classify pole-shaped obstacles. Then, the identified target frame information is combined with binocular stereo matching to obtain more accurate distance information. (3) Results: The experimental results demonstrate that this method achieves a mean average precision (mAP) of 97.4% for detecting pole-shaped obstacles, which is 3.1% higher than the original model. The image inference time is only 1.6 ms, which is 1.8 ms faster than the original algorithm. Additionally, the model size is only 19.0 MB. Furthermore, the range error of this system is less than 7% within the range of 3–15 m. (4) Conclusions: Therefore, the algorithm not only achieves real-time and accurate identification and classification but also ensures precise measurement within a specific range. Meanwhile, the model is lightweight and better suited for deploying sensing systems.
Recent Progress in Applications of Atmospheric Pressure Plasma for Water Organic Contaminants’ Degradation
Authors: Yin Yue , Xu Hangbo , Zhu Yupan , Zhuang Jie , Ma Ruonan , Cui Dongjie , Jiao Zhen
Published: November 2023

Owing to current global water scarcity, there is an urgent need for advanced water treatment technologies to be invested in wastewater treatment processes. Additionally, there is growing concern that some anthropogenic contaminants have been detected in finished drinking water and wastewater slated for reuse, such as organic chemicals, pharmaceuticals, industrial dyes and even viruses, and their health effects are poorly understood at low concentrations. Atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) is a kind of advanced oxidation technology with high efficiency, low energy consumption, and little environmental impact. In recent decades, as a new method of environmental pollution abatement, APP has proven able to decompose and even completely eliminate stubborn organic contaminants. This paper focuses on the application of different types of plasma in the wastewater purification, such as water containing perfluorinated compounds, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, dyes, phenols, and viruses. Then, the effects of discharge parameters (discharge power, electrode distance, gas flow rate and working gas composition) on degradation efficiency were summarized. Finally, the existing challenges and future prospects of plasma-based wastewater purification are outlined.
Risk Assessment of Freezing–Thawing Hazards in the Daxing’anling Forest Region
Authors: Chen Kezheng , Huang Shuai
Published: November 2023

The Daxing’anling forest region represents a crucial forestry hub in China and confronts some of the nation’s most severe freezing–thawing hazards. This study delved into the temporal trends and spatial distributions of various parameters related to freezing and thawing, including air temperature, ground surface temperature, freezing index, thawing index, and freezing–thawing frequency. Furthermore, this study assessed and delineated freezing–thawing hazards within the research area. The findings revealed a rapid increase in air temperature and ground surface temperature within the Daxing’anling forest region yet a lower rate of increase in ground surface temperature compared to Northeast China. Latitude had the strongest influence on mean annual air temperature, mean annual ground surface temperature, air freezing index, air thawing index, ground surface freezing index, ground surface thawing index, air freezing–thawing frequency, and ground surface freezing–thawing frequency, followed by longitude and elevation. Overall, freezing index, and air freezing–thawing frequency increased from south to north, whereas mean annual air temperature, mean annual ground surface temperature, air thawing index, ground surface thawing index, and ground surface freezing–thawing frequency decreased from south to north. The assessment outcomes underscore the importance of closely monitoring freezing–thawing hazards in regions north of the 50th parallel.
MAFormer: A New Method for Radar Reflectivity Reconstructing Using Satellite Data
Authors: Wang Kuoyin , Huang Yan , Yu Tingzhao , Chen Yu , Li Zhimin , Kuang Qiuming
Published: November 2023

Radar reflectivity plays a crucial role in detecting heavy rainfall and is an important tool for meteorological analysis. However, the coverage of a single radar is limited, leading to the use of satellite data as a complementary source. Consequently, how to bridge the gap between radar and satellite data has become a growing research focus. In this paper, we present MAFormer, a novel model for reconstructing radar reflectivity using satellite data within the Transformer framework. MAFormer consists of two modules: the Axial Local Attention Module and the Mixup Global Attention Module, which extract both local saliency and global similarity. Quantitative and qualitative experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed method. Specifically, the MAFormer model exhibits notable advancements when compared to state-of-the-art deep learning techniques. It demonstrates an improvement ranging from 0.01 to 0.05 in terms of the Heidke skill score, indicating its superior performance. Additionally, MAFormer effectively mitigates false alarm rates by approximately 0.016 to 0.04, which further highlights its enhanced accuracy and reliability.
Modeling and Analysis of Foot Function in Human Gait Using a Two-Degrees-of-Freedom Inverted Pendulum Model with an Arced Foot
Authors: Xiang Qian , Guo Shijie , Wang Jiaxin , Hashimoto Kazunobu , Liu Yong , Liu Lei
Published: November 2023

Gait models are important for the design and control of lower limb exoskeletons. The inverted pendulum model has advantages in simplicity and computational efficiency, but it also has the limitations of oversimplification and lack of realism. This paper proposes a two-degrees-of-freedom (DOF) inverted pendulum walking model by considering the knee joints for describing the characteristics of human gait. A new parameter, roll factor, is defined to express foot function in the model, and the relationships between the roll factor and gait parameters are investigated. Experiments were conducted to verify the model by testing seven healthy adults at different walking speeds. The results demonstrate that the roll factor has a strong relationship with other gait kinematics parameters, so it can be used as a simple parameter for expressing gait kinematics. In addition, the roll factor can be used to identify walking styles with high accuracy, including small broken step walking at 99.57%, inefficient walking at 98.14%, and normal walking at 99.43%.
Design, Fabrication, and Preliminary Validation of Patient-Specific Spine Section Phantoms for Use in Training Spine Surgeons Outside the Operating Room/Theatre
Authors: Carbone Marina , Viglialoro Rosanna Maria , Stagnari Sara , Condino Sara , Gesi Marco , Scaglione Michelangelo , Parchi Paolo Domenico
Published: November 2023

Pedicle screw fixation (PSF) demands rigorous training to mitigate the risk of severe neurovascular complications arising from screw misplacement. This paper introduces a patient-specific phantom designed for PSF training, extending a portion of the learning process beyond the confines of the surgical room. Six phantoms of the thoracolumbar region were fabricated from radiological datasets, combining 3D printing and casting techniques. The phantoms were employed in three training sessions by a fifth-year resident who performed full training on all six phantoms; he/she placed a total of 57 pedicle screws. Analysis of the learning curve, focusing on time per screw and positioning accuracy, revealed attainment of an asymptotic performance level (around 3 min per screw) after 40 screws. The phantom’s efficacy was evaluated by three experts and six residents, each inserting a minimum of four screws. Initial assessments confirmed face, content, and construct validity, affirming the patient-specific phantoms as a valuable training resource. These proposed phantoms exhibit great promise as an essential tool in surgical training as they exhibited a demonstrable learning effect on the PSF technique. This study lays the foundation for further exploration and underscores the potential impact of these patient-specific phantoms on the future of spinal surgical education.
Endoscope Capsules: The Present Situation and Future Outlooks
Authors: Gounella Rodrigo , Granado Talita Conte , Hideo Ando Junior Oswaldo , Luporini Daniel Luís , Gazziro Mario , Carmo João Paulo
Published: November 2023

This paper presents new perspectives on photonic technologies for capsule endoscopy. It first presents a review of conventional endoscopy (upper endoscopy and colonoscopy), followed by capsule endoscopy (CE), as well as their techniques, advantages, and drawbacks. The technologies for CEs presented in this paper include integration with the existing endoscopic systems that are commercially available. Such technologies include narrow-band imaging (NBI), photodynamic therapy (PDT), confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and spectroscopy in order to improve the performance of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract examination. In the context of NBI, two optical filters were designed and fabricated for integration into endoscopic capsules, allowing for the visualization of light centered at the 415 nm and 540 nm wavelengths. These optical filters are based on the principle of Fabry-Perot and were made of thin films of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and silicon dioxide (SiO2). Moreover, strategies and solutions for the adaptation of ECs for PDT are also discussed.
Thiazole Derivatives as Modulators of GluA2 AMPA Receptors: Potent Allosteric Effects and Neuroprotective Potential
Authors: Hawash Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Thiazole carboxamide derivatives were synthesized in this investigation, with a subsequent examination of their impact on GluA2 AMPA receptors. The synthesized compounds, namely MMH-1-5, were subjected to characterization using high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance (13C-NMR). The present work thoroughly investigates the impact of five thiazole derivatives on GluA2 AMPA receptors. This investigation examined their effects on both whole-cell currents and receptor kinetics. In addition, the cytotoxicity of the samples was assessed using the MTS test. The compound MMH-5 had the highest effect level, resulting in a notable drop in current amplitude by a factor of six. Similarly, MMH-4 and MMH-3 also caused major reductions in the current amplitude. The compounds mentioned above also influenced the rates of deactivation and desensitization. MMH-5 and MMH-4 exhibited an increase in deactivation, while MMH-5 showed reduced desensitization. Our research findings highlight the efficacy of MMH-5 as a negative allosteric modulator of GluA2 AMPA receptors, exerting substantial effects on both the magnitude and time course of receptor activity. Significantly, the compound MMH-2 demonstrated noteworthy cytotoxic effects, as evidenced by cell viability rates dropping below 6.79% for all cancer cell lines and 17.52% for the normal cell line (LX-2). Of particular interest is the pronounced cytotoxicity observed in MMH-5, suggesting its potential as a safe neuroprotective agent targeting the AMPA receptor, as indicated by cell viability percentages exceeding 85.44% across all cancer and normal cell lines. Docking simulations were performed to determine possible modes of interaction between MMH5 and the GluA2-AMPA receptor (PDB:7RZ5). The abovementioned facts and the well-documented effects of further thiazole derivatives provide a strong foundation for future research endeavors to enhance tailored treatments for neurological disorders that rely heavily on GluA2 signaling. The present study elucidates the intricate association between thiazole derivatives and GluA2 receptors, providing valuable perspectives on the prospects of enhanced and specific therapeutic interventions for diverse neurological conditions.
Diacutaneous Fibrolysis: An Update on Research into Musculoskeletal and Neural Clinical Entities
Authors: Lucha-López María Orosia , Hidalgo-García César , Monti-Ballano Sofía , Márquez-Gonzalvo Sergio , Krauss John , Tricás-Vidal Héctor José , Tricás-Moreno José Miguel
Published: November 2023

Diacutaneous Fibrolysis (DF) is an instrumentally assisted manual therapy technique defined as “a specific instrumental intervention for normalizing the musculoskeletal system function after a precise diagnosis and preserving the skin’s integrity”. The aim of this technique is soft tissue mobilization with the assistance of specially designed, hook-shaped steel instruments in different musculoskeletal structures, such as the myofascia, aponeurosis, tendons, ligaments and scar tissues. Due to discrepant results between previous reviews and the quite abundant new evidence provided by recently published randomized clinical trials, we propound this narrative review to provide an update on the scientific evidence related to the fundamentals and clinical efficacy of DF. Current evidence primarily supports the mechanical effect of DF on connective soft tissues. Diminished deep tendon reflex and rigidity have been registered after the implementation of DF in healthy subjects. Though there is still much to uncover, scientific evidence supports the use of the technique for the clinical treatment of subacromial impingement syndrome, chronic lateral epicondylalgia, chronic patellofemoral pain syndrome, mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, hamstring shortening, temporomandibular disorders, tension-type headache and chronic low back pain. Additional data are essential for better recommendations in the clinical practice of DF.
c-Met+ Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes Exhibit Enhanced Cytotoxicity in Mice and Humans In Vitro Tumor Models
Authors: Benkhoucha Mahdia , Tran Ngoc Lan , Senoner Isis , Breville Gautier , Fritah Hajer , Migliorini Denis , Dutoit Valérie , Lalive Patrice H.
Published: November 2023

CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) play a crucial role in anti-tumor immunity. In a previous study, we identified a subset of murine effector CTLs expressing the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor, c-Met (c-Met+ CTLs), that are endowed with enhanced cytolytic capacity. HGF directly inhibited the cytolytic function of c-Met+ CTLs, both in 2D in vitro assays and in vivo, leading to reduced T cell responses against metastatic melanoma. To further investigate the role of c-Met+ CTLs in a three-dimensional (3D) setting, we studied their function within B16 melanoma spheroids and examined the impact of cell–cell contact on the modulation of inhibitory checkpoint molecules’ expression, such as KLRG1, PD-1, and CTLA-4. Additionally, we evaluated the cytolytic capacity of human CTL clones expressing c-Met (c-Met+) and compared it to c-Met− CTL clones. Our results indicated that, similar to their murine counterparts, c-Met+ human CTL clones exhibited increased cytolytic activity compared to c-Met− CTL clones, and this enhanced function was negatively regulated by the presence of HGF. Taken together, our findings highlight the potential of targeting the HGF/c-Met pathway to modulate CTL-mediated anti-tumor immunity. This research holds promise for developing strategies to enhance the effectiveness of CTL-based immunotherapies against cancer.
Frequency and Pattern of Worldwide Ocular Gene Therapy Clinical Trials up to 2022
Authors: Ameri Hossein , Kesavamoorthy Niranjana , Bruce Dara N.
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to describe worldwide gene therapy clinical trials aimed at treating ophthalmic disorders. Information regarding all worldwide clinical trials was collected through 15 different sources, including ClinicalTrials.gov. There were 159 gene therapy clinical trials on ophthalmic diseases up until 2022. Phase 1/2 trials had the highest frequency (50—32%), followed by phase 2 (33—21%); 107 trials (67%) were conducted in a single country, and 50 trials (31%) were multinational. Overall, the USA was the site of 113 (71%) single or multinational trials. Of the trials, 153 (96%) targeted retina and optic nerve disorders, 3 (2%) glaucoma, 2 (1%) uveitis, and 1 (1%) cornea; 104 trials (65%) employed gene augmentation using viral vectors, and the remaining employed other methods such as inhibitory RNA (18—11%) and cell-based gene therapy using encapsulated cell technology (18—11%). For gene augmentation trials, adeno-associated virus was used for transgene delivery in 87% of cases. The most common conditions targeted by gene augmentation included inherited retinal (74%) and age-related macular degeneration (wet, 14%; dry, 7%). Overall, a large number of gene therapy clinical trials have been conducted in the eye, and so far, one has led to regulatory approval.
Porous Polylactide Microparticles as Effective Fillers for Hydrogels
Authors: Zagoskin Yuriy D. , Sergeeva Yana E. , Fomina Yuliya S. , Sukhinov Daniil V. , Malakhov Sergey N. , Osidak Egor O. , Khramtsova Elena A. , Gotovtsev Pavel M. , Chvalun Sergei N. , Grigoriev Timofei E.
Published: November 2023

High-strength composite hydrogels based on collagen or chitosan–genipin were obtained via mixing using highly porous polylactide (PLA) microparticles with diameters of 50–75 µm and porosity values of over 98%. The elastic modulus of hydrogels depended on the filler concentration. The modulus increased from 80 kPa to 400–600 kPa at a concentration of porous particles of 12–15 wt.% and up to 1.8 MPa at a filling of 20–25 wt.% for collagen hydrogels. The elastic modulus of the chitosan–genipin hydrogel increases from 75 kPa to 900 kPa at a fraction of particles of 20 wt.%. These elastic modulus values cover a range of strength properties from connective tissue to cartilage tissue. It is important to note that the increase in strength in this case is accompanied by a decrease in the density of the material, that is, an increase in porosity. PLA particles were loaded with C-phycocyanin and showed an advanced release profile up to 48 h. Thus, composite hydrogels mimic the structure, biomechanics and release of biomolecules in the tissues of a living organism.
A Facile Glycerol-Assisted Synthesis of Low-Cu2+-Doped CoFe2O4 for Electrochemical Sensing of Acetaminophen
Authors: Alfonso-González José Guillermo , Granja-Banguera Claudia Patricia , Morales-Morales Jimmy Alexander , Dector Andrés
Published: November 2023

This work devised a simple glycerol-assisted synthesis of a low-Cu2+-doped CoFe2O4 and the electrochemical detection of acetaminophen (AC). During the synthesis, several polyalcohols were tested, indicating the efficiency of glycerin as a cosolvent, aiding in the creation of electrode-modifier nanomaterials. A duration of standing time (eight hours) before calcination produces a decrease in the secondary phase of hematite. The synthesized material was used as an electrode material in the detection of AC. In acidic conditions (pH 2.5), the limit of detection (LOD) was 99.4 nM, while the limit of quantification (LOQ) was found to be (331 nM). The relative standard deviation (RSD), 3.31%, was computed. The enhanced electrocatalytic activity of a low-Cu2+-doped CoFe2O4-modified electrode Cu0.13Co0.87Fe2O4/GCE corresponds extremely well with its resistance Rct, which was determined using the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique and defined its electron transfer capacity. The possibility of a low-Cu2+-doped CoFe2O4 for the electrochemical sensing of AC in human urine samples was studied. The recovery rates ranging from 96.5 to 101.0% were obtained. These findings suggested that the Cu0.13Co0.87Fe2O4/GCE sensor has outstanding practicability and could be utilized to detect AC content in real complex biological samples.
Characterization of Cortical and Subcortical Structural Brain Asymmetry in Adults with and without Dyslexia
Authors: Cummine Jacqueline , Ngo Tiffany , Nisbet Kelly
Published: November 2023

Multiple cortical (planum temporale, supramarginal gyrus, fusiform gyrus) and subcortical (caudate, putamen, and thalamus) regions have shown different functional lateralization patterns for skilled vs. dyslexic readers. The extent to which skilled and dyslexic adult readers show differential structural lateralization remains to be seen. Method: Participants included 72 adults (N = 41 skilled; N = 31 dyslexic) who underwent a high-resolution MRI brain scan. The grey matter volume of the cortical and subcortical structures was extracted. Results: While there were clear behavioral differences between the groups, there were no differences in any of the isolated structures (i.e., either total size or asymmetry index) and limited evidence for any brain–behavior relationships. We did find a significant cortical–cortical relationship (p = 0.006) and a subcortical–subcortical relationship (p = 0.008), but not cross-over relationships. Overall, this work provides unique information on neural structures as they relate to reading in skilled and dyslexic readers.
An Innovative Construction Site Safety Assessment Solution Based on the Integration of Bayesian Network and Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Xiao Lizhao , Tang Llewellyn C. M. , Wen Ya
Published: November 2023

The building construction industry in mainland China is distinguished by one of the highest accident rates and numbers of fatalities. Therefore, risk assessment plays a significant role in preventing safety incidents and economic losses. However, traditional risk assessment methods are mainly experience-based which could introduce significant uncertainties in accident chain estimation, quantitative analysis, and handling with uncertainty. Safety accidents are difficult to estimate, which might lead to inappropriate safety-related decision making. To solve this problem, an innovative quantitative analysis strategy has been developed, generating a loss index for various accidents in the construction site, based on the Bayesian Network and Analytic Hierarchy Process solution. In this solution, the contribution rate of every risk factor to a certain accident can be calculated. Based on those, the loss index of each construction site can be calculated by inputting current risk factors in the construction site. Moreover, the real-time loss index can be estimated which can help the management team with more accurate decision making compared with the traditional approaches. With this model, the safety situation on the construction site can be clarified and the risk priority can be analyzed according to the dynamic condition.
Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis and Fatigue Damage Assessment of Wind-Induced Vibration for the Tension Cable-Supported Power Transmission Structure
Authors: Li Jingyang , Wang Bangjie , Wang Tao , Li Zhengliang
Published: November 2023

The tension cable-supported power transmission structure (TC-PTS) is a new type of power transmission structure suitable for mountainous terrain, and is sensitive to wind load. In this regard, a nonlinear finite element analysis model of wind-induced vibration is proposed for the TC-PTS, and the wind-induced vibration response of the structure is analyzed. Firstly, the tangent stiffness matrix of the three-dimensional truss element for the supporting suspension cable and transmission line, considering the geometric nonlinearity of structures, is derived through the relationship between the element elastic energy and its displacement. Subsequently, the element mass matrix and damping matrix of the supporting suspension cable and transmission line, as well as the element nodal load vector obtained from wind load equivalence, are given. Then, based on the nonlinear finite element theory, the nonlinear dynamic equation of wind-induced vibration is established for the TC-PTS and solved using the Newmark-β method combined with the Newton–Raphson iterative method. Furthermore, the rain-flow counting method and Miner’s linear fatigue cumulative damage theory were used for wind-induced fatigue damage assessment. Finally, a two-span TC-PTS was selected as an example, and the wind-induced nonlinear vibration and fatigue damage assessment were analyzed through the proposed model. The results show that the proposed model has high computational accuracy and efficiency. The first three order vibration modes of the supporting-conductor part of the two-span TC-PTS were antisymmetric vertical bending, symmetric side bending, and antisymmetric side bending. With the increase in wind speed and wind direction angle, the maximum lateral displacement and tension of the supporting suspension cable and transmission line increased, and their degree of increase showed a nonlinear trend. In terms of the wind-induced fatigue analysis results of TC-PTS, the fatigue damage at the end of the supporting-conductor suspension cable was greater than the fatigue damage at its midpoint. Compared to the fatigue damage at the midpoint of the conductor, the fatigue damage at the end of the conductor was less affected by the wind direction angle, and both were more significantly affected by the wind speed.
Carbon Emission Composition and Carbon Reduction Potential of Coastal Villages under Low-Carbon Background
Authors: Yu Zejun , Qu Guanhua , Li Zhixin , Wang Yao , Ren Lei
Published: November 2023

Rural buildings have high optimization potential as a major source of carbon emissions. However, the current research on carbon reduction in rural buildings is rough and lacks categorization and geographic studies. Coastal villages are more economically developed than other types of villages and have greater potential for energy saving. Therefore, this study takes the carbon emission data of buildings and life in 409 villages in typical coastal provinces of China as the basis and proposes optimization strategies for carbon reduction in coastal village buildings via cluster analysis and correlation analysis. The results show that the carbon emission characteristics of coastal villages can be categorized into three scenarios: for scenario 1, villages, their population, and village cultivated area are the core influencing factors of carbon emission, while for scenarios 2 and 3, the most central influencing factors are coal and electricity consumption. Therefore, different types of villages should be guided differently when studying carbon sinks and carbon emission projections in coastal villages. This study aims to establish a low-carbon performance quality assessment and optimization pathway for coastal villages, and the analysis of carbon emission influencing factors and the assessment and optimization provide theoretical support and quantitative methods for the optimization of carbon reduction in villages.
Simulation-Driven and Optimization-Based Design of an Architectural Building: A Case Study of a Space Tourism Building in the UAE
Authors: Maksoud Aref , Hussien Aseel Ali , Tatan Leena , Soliman Elshaimaa Baz Ahmed Baz Ahmed , Elmaghraby Salwa
Published: November 2023

In the constantly changing field of architectural design and meeting the evolving demands of the space tourism industry, this study presents a case study focused on the design of a space tourism building in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The main objective of this study is to showcase the integration of simulation-driven and optimization-based methodologies in architectural design to anticipate forthcoming challenges and resolve design-related issues or constraints. This study employs a range of computational tools to optimize various design parameters, including sun path, radiation, shadow, outdoor comfort, and wind simulation, to conduct a more thorough assessment in the process of choosing the best-optimized design. In addition, a finite element analysis (FEA) was carried out to gain insights into the structural behavior of the chosen design under diverse physical conditions. This integration marks a paradigm shift in how architectural projects are conceptualized, developed, and realized by addressing complex challenges and enhancing the functionality, sustainability, and performance of architectural buildings. The findings of this case study demonstrate and prove the potential of simulation-driven and optimization-based design approaches in determining the future of architectural designs. As the UAE strives to become a center for space-related activities, this research helps to drive the realization of cutting-edge, sustainable, and user-centric architectural solutions, paving the way for the next generation of space tourism facilities.