bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversion of Secondary C3-C4 Aliphatic Alcohols on Carbon Nanotubes Consolidated by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Savilov Serguei , Suslova Evgeniya , Epishev Vsevolod , Tveritinova Evgeniya , Zhitnev Yuriy , Ulyanov Alexander , Maslakov Konstantin , Isaikina Oksana
Published: February 2021

We analyze how the changes in the dimension of carbon nanomaterial (CNM) affect their catalytic conversion of secondary aliphatic alcohols. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) consolidated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) were inactive in the conversion of secondary C3-C4 aliphatic alcohols because of the «healing» of defects in carbon structure during SPS. Gas-phase treatment of consolidated CNTs with HNO3 vapors led to their surface oxidation without destruction of the bulk structure of pellets. The oxygen content in consolidated CNTs determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy increased from 11.3 to 14.9 at. % with increasing the oxidation time from 3 to 6 h. Despite the decrease in the specific surface area, the oxidized samples showed enhanced catalytic activity in alcohol conversion because of the increased number of oxygen radicals with unpaired electrons, which was established by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. We conclude that the structure of CNM determines the content and/or ratio of sp2 and sp3-hybridized carbon atoms in the material. The experimental and literature data demonstrated that sp3-hybridized carbon atoms on the surface are probably the preferable site for catalytic conversion of alcohols.
3,4-Methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) Sensing Based on Electropolymerized Molecularly Imprinted Polymers on Silver Nanoparticles and Carboxylated Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Couto Rosa A. S. , Coelho Constantino , Mounssef Bassim , Morais Sara F. de A. , Lima Camila D. , dos Santos Wallans T. P. , Carvalho Félix , Rodrigues Cecília M. P. , Braga Ataualpa A. C. , Gonçalves Luís Moreira , Quinaz M. Beatriz
Published: February 2021

3,4-methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is a harmful and controlled synthetic cathinone used as a psychostimulant drug and as sport-enhancing substance. A sensor was developed for the direct analysis of MDPV by transducing its oxidation signal by means of an electropolymerized molecularly imprinted polymer (e-MIP) built in-situ on the screen-printed carbon electrode’s (SPCE) surface previously covered with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Benzene-1,2-diamine was used as the functional monomer while the analyte was used as the template monomer. Each step of the sensor’s development was studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in a solution containing ferricyanide, however no redox probe was required for the actual MDPV measurements. The interaction between the poly(o-phenylenediamine) imprinted polymer and MDPV was studied by density-functional theory (DFT) methods. The SPCE-MWCNT-AgNP-MIP sensor responded adequately to the variation of MDPV concentration. It was shown that AgNPs enhanced the electrochemical signal by around a 3-fold factor. Making use of square-wave voltammetry (SWV) the developed sensor provided a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.8 μmol L–1. The analytical performance of the proposed sensor paves the way to the development of a portable device for MDPV on-site sensing to be applied in forensic and doping analysis.
Design and Synthesis of Luminescent Lanthanide-Based Bimodal Nanoprobes for Dual Magnetic Resonance (MR) and Optical Imaging
Authors: Mnasri Walid , Parvizian Mahsa , Ammar-Merah Souad
Published: February 2021

Current biomedical imaging techniques are crucial for the diagnosis of various diseases. Each imaging technique uses specific probes that, although each one has its own merits, do not encompass all the functionalities required for comprehensive imaging (sensitivity, non-invasiveness, etc.). Bimodal imaging methods are therefore rapidly becoming an important topic in advanced healthcare. This bimodality can be achieved by successive image acquisitions involving different and independent probes, one for each mode, with the risk of artifacts. It can be also achieved simultaneously by using a single probe combining a complete set of physical and chemical characteristics, in order to record complementary views of the same biological object at the same time. In this scenario, and focusing on bimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and optical imaging (OI), probes can be engineered by the attachment, more or less covalently, of a contrast agent (CA) to an organic or inorganic dye, or by designing single objects containing both the optical emitter and MRI-active dipole. If in the first type of system, there is frequent concern that at some point the dye may dissociate from the magnetic dipole, it may not in the second type. This review aims to present a summary of current activity relating to this kind of dual probes, with a special emphasis on lanthanide-based luminescent nano-objects.
Sensing Electrochemical Signals Using a Nitrogen-Vacancy Center in Diamond
Authors: Dinani Hossein T. , Muñoz Enrique , Maze Jeronimo R.
Published: February 2021

Chemical sensors with high sensitivity that can be used under extreme conditions and can be miniaturized are of high interest in science and industry. The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center in diamond is an ideal candidate as a nanosensor due to the long coherence time of its electron spin and its optical accessibility. In this theoretical work, we propose the use of an NV center to detect electrochemical signals emerging from an electrolyte solution, thus obtaining a concentration sensor. For this purpose, we propose the use of the inhomogeneous dephasing rate of the electron spin of the NV center (1/T2★) as a signal. We show that for a range of mean ionic concentrations in the bulk of the electrolyte solution, the electric field fluctuations produced by the diffusional fluctuations in the local concentration of ions result in dephasing rates that can be inferred from free induction decay measurements. Moreover, we show that for a range of concentrations, the electric field generated at the position of the NV center can be used to estimate the concentration of ions.
Synthesis of MnO/C/NiO-Doped Porous Multiphasic Composites for Lithium-Ion Batteries by Biomineralized Mn Oxides from Engineered Pseudomonas putida Cells
Authors: Liu Jin , Gu Tong , Li Li , Li Lin
Published: February 2021

A biotemplated cation-incoporating method based on bacterial cell-surface display technology and biogenic Mn oxide mineralization process was developed to fabricate Mn-based multiphasic composites as anodes for Li-ion batteries. The engineered Pseudomonas putida MB285 cells with surface-immobilized multicopper oxidase serve as nucleation centers in the Mn oxide biomineralization process, and the Mn oxides act as a settler for incorporating Ni ions to form aggregates in this process. The assays using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, phase compositions, and fine structures verified that the resulting material MnO/C/NiO (CMB-Ni) was porous multiphasic composites with spherical and porous nanostructures. The electrochemical properties of materials were improved in the presence of NiO. The reversible discharge capacity of CMB-Ni remained at 352.92 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.1 A g−1 current density. In particular, the coulombic efficiency was approximately 100% after the second cycle for CMB-Ni.
Applications of Carbon Dots in Optoelectronics
Authors: Stepanidenko Evgeniia A. , Ushakova Elena V. , Fedorov Anatoly V. , Rogach Andrey L.
Published: February 2021

Carbon dots (CDs) are an attractive class of nanomaterials due to the ease of their synthesis, biocompatibility, and superior optical properties. The electronic structure of CDs and hence their optical transitions can be controlled and tuned over a wide spectral range via the choice of precursors, adjustment of the synthetic conditions, and post-synthetic treatment. We summarize recent progress in the synthesis of CDs emitting in different colors in terms of morphology and optical properties of the resulting nanoparticles, with a focus on the synthetic approaches allowing to shift their emission to longer wavelengths. We further consider formation of CD-based composite materials, and review approaches used to prevent aggregation and self-quenching of their emission. We then provide examples of applications of CDs in optoelectronic devices, such as solar cells and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with a focus on white LEDs.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Optics in 2020
Authors: Office Optics Editorial Office
Published: February 2021

Peer review is the driving force of journal development, and reviewers are gatekeepers who ensure that Optics maintains its standards for the high quality of its published papers [...]
A Search for Anti-Naegleria fowleri Agents Based on Competitive Exclusion Behavior of Microorganisms in Natural Aquatic Environments
Authors: Ruenchit Pichet , Whangviboonkij Narisara , Sawasdipokin Hathai , Phumisantiphong Uraporn , Chaicumpa Wanpen
Published: February 2021

Naegleria fowleri causes deadly primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in humans. Humans obtain the infection by inhaling water or dust contaminated with amebae into the nostrils, wherefrom the pathogen migrates via the olfactory nerve to cause brain inflammation and necrosis. Current PAM treatment is ineffective and toxic. Seeking new effective and less toxic drugs for the environmental control of the amoeba population to reduce human exposure is logical for the management of N. fowleri infection. On the basis of the concept of competitive exclusion, where environmental microorganisms compete for resources by secreting factors detrimental to other organisms, we tested cell-free culture supernatants (CFSs) of three bacteria isolated from a fresh water canal, i.e., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas otitidis, and Enterobacter cloacae, were tested against N. fowleri. The CFSs inhibited growth and caused morphological changes in N. fowleri. At low dose, N. fowleri trophozoites exposed to P. aeruginosa pyocyanin were seen to shrink and become rounded, while at high dose, the trophozoites were fragmented. While the precise molecular mechanisms of pyocyanin and products of P. otitidis and E. cloacae that also exert anti-N. fowleri activity await clarification. Our findings suggest that P. aeruginosa pyocyanin may have a role in the control of amphizoic N. fowleri in the environment.
Design, Synthesis, Anticancer Activity, and Solid Lipid Nanoparticle Formulation of Indole- and Benzimidazole-Based Compounds as Pro-Apoptotic Agents Targeting Bcl-2 Protein
Authors: Nagy Manar I. , Darwish Khaled M. , Kishk Safaa M. , Tantawy Mohamed A. , Nasr Ali M. , Qushawy Mona , Swidan Shady A. , Mostafa Samia M. , Salama Ismail
Published: February 2021

Cancer is a multifactorial disease necessitating identification of novel targets for its treatment. Inhibition of Bcl-2 for triggered pro-apoptotic signaling is considered a promising strategy for cancer treatment. Within the current work, we aimed to design and synthesize a new series of benzimidazole- and indole-based derivatives as inhibitors of Bcl-2 protein. The market pan-Bcl-2 inhibitor, obatoclax, was the lead framework compound for adopted structural modifications. The obatoclax’s pyrrolylmethine linker was replaced with straight alkylamine or carboxyhydrazine methylene linkers providing the new compounds. This strategy permitted improved structural flexibility of synthesized compounds adopting favored maneuvers for better fitting at the Bcl-2 major hydrophobic pocket. Anti-cancer activity of the synthesized compounds was further investigated through MTT-cytotoxic assay, cell cycle analysis, RT-PCR, ELISA and DNA fragmentation. Cytotoxic results showed compounds 8a, 8b and 8c with promising cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231/breast cancer cells (IC50 = 12.69 ± 0.84 to 12.83 ± 3.50 µM), while 8a and 8c depicted noticeable activities against A549/lung adenocarcinoma cells (IC50 = 23.05 ± 1.45 and 11.63 ± 2.57 µM, respectively). The signaling Bcl-2 inhibition pathway was confirmed by molecular docking where significant docking energies and interactions with key Bcl-2 pocket residues were depicted. Moreover, the top active compound, 8b, showed significant upregulated expression levels of pro-apoptotic/anti-apoptotic of genes; Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3, -8, and -9 through RT-PCR assay. Improving the compound’s pharmaceutical profile was undertaken by introducing 8b within drug-solid/lipid nanoparticle formulation prepared by hot melting homogenization technique and evaluated for encapsulation efficiency, particle size, and zeta potential. Significant improvement was seen at the compound’s cytotoxic activity. In conclusion, 8b is introduced as a promising anti-cancer lead candidate that worth future fine-tuned lead optimization and development studies while exploring its potentiality through in-vivo preclinical investigation.
Interband, Surface Plasmon and Fano Resonances in Titanium Carbide (MXene) Nanoparticles in the Visible to Infrared Range
Authors: Gonçalves Manuel , Melikyan Armen , Minassian Hayk , Makaryan Taron , Petrosyan Petros , Sargsian Tigran
Published: February 2021

Since the discovery of the optical properties of two-dimensional (2D) titanium carbide (MXene) conductive material, an ever increasing interest has been devoted towards understanding it as a plasmonic substrate or nanoparticle. This noble metal-free alternative holds promise not only due to its lower cost but also its 2D nature, hydrophilicity and apparent bio-compatibility. Herein, the optical properties of the most widely studied Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets are theoretically analyzed and absorption cross-sections are calculated exploiting available experimental data on its dielectric function. The occurrence of quadrupole surface plasmon mode in the optical absorption spectra of large MXene nanoparticles is demonstrated for the first time. The resonance wavelengths corresponding to interband transitions, longitudinal and transversal dipole oscillations and quadrupole longitudinal surface plasmon mode are identified for single and coupled nanoparticles by modeling their shapes as ellipsoids, disks and cylinders. A new mechanism of excitation of longwave transversal surface plasmon oscillations by an external electric field perpendicular to the direction of charge oscillations is presented. Excitingly enough, a new effect in coupled MXene nanoparticles—Fano resonance—is unveiled. The results of calculations are compared to known experimental data on electron absorption spectroscopy, and good agreement is demonstrated.
Lamina Cell Shape and Cell Wall Thickness Are Useful Indicators for Metal Tolerance—An Example in Bryophytes
Authors: Petschinger Katharina , Adlassnig Wolfram , Sabovljevic Marko S. , Lang Ingeborg
Published: February 2021

Bryophytes are widely used to monitor air quality. Due to the lack of a cuticle, their cells can be compared to the roots of crop plants. This study aimed to test a hypothetical relation between metal tolerance and cell shape in biomonitoring mosses (Hypnum cupressiforme, Pleurozium schreberi, Pseudoscleropodium purum) and metal sensitive species (Physcomitrium patens, Plagiomnium affine). The tolerance experiments were conducted on leafy gametophytes exposed to solutions of ZnSO4, ZnCl2, and FeSO4 in graded concentrations of 1 M to 10−8 M. Plasmolysis in D-mannitol (0.8 M) was used as a viability measure. The selected species differed significantly in lamina cell shape, cell wall thickness, and metal tolerance. In those tested mosses, the lamina cell shape correlated significantly with the heavy metal tolerance, and we found differences for ZnSO4 and ZnCl2. Biomonitoring species with long and thin cells proved more tolerant than species with isodiametric cells. For the latter, “death zones” at intermediate metal concentrations were found upon exposure to ZnSO4. Species with a greater tolerance towards FeSO4 and ZnSO4 had thicker cell walls than less tolerant species. Hence, cell shape as a protoplast-to-wall ratio, in combination with cell wall thickness, could be a good marker for metal tolerance.
Comparative Study of Anti-Gouty Arthritis Effects of Sam-Myo-Whan according to Extraction Solvents
Authors: Lee Yun Mi , Son Eunjung , Kim Dong-Seon
Published: February 2021

Sam-Myo-Whan (SMW) has been used in Korean and Chinese traditional medicine to help treat gout, by reducing swelling and inflammation and relieving pain. This study compared the effects of SMW extracted by using different solvents, water (SMWW) and 30% EtOH (SMWE), in the treatment of gouty arthritis. To this end, we analyzed the main components of SMWW and SMWE, using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Anti-hyperuricemic activity was evaluated by measuring serum uric acid levels in hyperuricemic rats. The effects of SMWW and SMWE on swelling, pain, and inflammation in gouty arthritis were investigated by measuring affected limb swelling and weight-bearing, as well as by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, to assess the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and myeloperoxidase (MPO). In potassium oxonate (PO)-induced hyperuricemic rats, SMWW and SMWE both significantly decreased serum uric acid to similar levels. In monosodium urate (MSU)-induced gouty arthritis mice, SMWE more efficiently decreased paw swelling and attenuated joint pain compare to SMWW. Moreover, SMWE and SMWW suppressed the level of inflammation by downregulating proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6) and MPO activity. HPLC analysis further revealed that berberine represented one of the major active ingredients demonstrating the greatest change in concentration between SMWW and SMWE. Our data demonstrate that SMWE retains a more effective therapeutic concentration compared to SMWW, in a mouse model of gouty arthritis.
Formation and Evaluation of a Two-Phase Polymer System in Human Plasma as a Method for Extracellular Nanovesicle Isolation
Authors: Slyusarenko Maria , Nikiforova Nadezhda , Sidina Elena , Nazarova Inga , Egorov Vladimir , Garmay Yuri , Merdalimova Anastasiia , Yevlampieva Natalia , Gorin Dmitry , Malek Anastasia
Published: February 2021

The aim of the study was to explore the polyethylene glycol–dextran two-phase polymer system formed in human plasma to isolate the exosome-enriched fraction of plasma extracellular nanovesicles (ENVs). Systematic analysis was performed to determine the optimal combination of the polymer mixture parameters (molecular mass and concentration) that resulted in phase separation. The separated phases were analyzed by nanoparticle tracking analysis and Raman spectroscopy. The isolated vesicles were characterized by atomic force microscopy and dot blotting. In conclusion, the protein and microRNA contents of the isolated ENVs were assayed by flow cytometry and by reverse transcription followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), respectively. The presented results revealed the applicability of a new method for plasma ENV isolation and further analysis with a diagnostic purpose.
Effect of Molecular Architecture on Associating Behavior of Star-Like Amphiphilic Polymers Consisting of Plural Poly(ethylene oxide) and One Alkyl Chain
Authors: Kugimoto Daisuke , Taniguchi Aoi , Kinoshita Masaki , Akiba Isamu
Published: February 2021

Associating behavior of star-like amphiphilic polymers consisting of two or three poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chains and one stearyl chain (C18) was investigated. Although the aggregation number (Nagg) of linear analogue of amphiphilic polymers monotonically decreased with increasing number-average molecular weight of PEO (Mn,PEO), the Nagg of micelles of star-like amphiphilic polymers with Mn,PEO = 550 g/mol was smaller than that with Mn,PEO = 750 g/mol, whereas that with Mn,PEO ≥ 750 g/mol showed general Mn,PEO dependence. Small-angle X-ray scattering analyses revealed that the occupied area of one PEO chain on the interface between hydrophobic core and corona layer in the micelles of star-like polymers was much narrower than that in the linear amphiphilic polymers. This result indica ted the PEO chains of star-like polymers partially took unfavorable conformation near the core–corona interface in polymer micelles. The effect of local conformation of PEO chains near the interface on the associating behavior became significant as Mn,PEO decreased. Therefore, in polymer micelles of star-like amphiphilic polymers containing PEO with Mn,PEO = 550 g/mol, the enlargement of occupied area of PEO on the core–corona interface should be caused to avoid the formation of unfavorable conformations of partial PEO chains, resulting in a decrease in Naggs.
Fabrication of Core-Shell Chopped Cf-Phenolic Resin Composite Powder for Laser Additive Manufacturing of Cf/SiC Composites
Authors: Chen Xiao , Yin Jie , Liu Xuejian , Xia Aidong , Huang Zhengren
Published: February 2021

Laser additive manufacturing is a promising technique for the preparation of complex-shaped SiC composites. High-quality powders are critical for high-precision laser printing. In this work, core-shell Cf @phenolic resin (PR) composites for selective laser sintering of carbon fiber reinforced silicon carbide (Cf/SiC) composites were fabricated by surface modification using 3-aminopropyltriethoxy silane coupling agent (KH550) in combination with planetary ball milling. PR coated uniformly on the fiber surface to form a core-shell structure. The effects of PR on the morphology, elemental composition, interfacial interactions, and laser absorption of the core-shell composite powder were investigated in detail. Results indicated that the composite powder exhibited good laser absorption within the infrared band.
Effect of Biochar Prepared from Food Waste through Different Thermal Treatment Processes on Crop Growth
Authors: Jia Hang , Ben Haoxi , Wu Fengze
Published: February 2021

Biochar is generally accepted and increasingly valued in scientific circles as solid products in the thermochemical conversion of biomass, mainly because of its rich carbon content. The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of biochar from different sources on wheat growth. In particular, this work focused on the effect of different preparation methods and raw material of biochar on the growth of wheat and aim to find a potential soil substitute that can be used for crop cultivation. Two synthetic methods were evaluated: hydrothermal conversion and pyrolysis. The characterization of biochar was determined to explore the impact of its microstructure on wheat growth. The results show that the yield of biochar produced from high-pressure reactor is significantly higher than that obtained by using microwave reactor. For example, the biochar yield obtained through the former is about six times that of the latter when using steamed bread cooked as biomass raw material. In addition, the growth trend of wheat indicates that biochar has different promoting effects on the growth of wheat in its weight and height. The pyrolyzed carbon is more suitable for wheat growth and is even more effective than soil, indicating that pyrolyzed biochar has more potential to be an alternative soil in the future. Moreover, this research tries to explore the reasons that affect crop growth by characterizing biochar (including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), biofilm electrostatic test (BET) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR)). The results indicate that the biochar containing more pits and less hydroxyl functional are more suitable for storing moisture, which is one of the significant factors in the growth of crops. This study provides evidence of the effects of biochar on crop growth, both in terms of microstructure and macroscopic growth trends, which provides significant benefits for biochar to grow crops or plants.
Preliminary Results of Total Hip Arthroplasty in Subjects at Risk for Dislocation Using a Novel Modular Cementless Dual-Mobility Cup. A Single-Center Prospective Study
Authors: Solarino Giuseppe , Simone Filippo , Panella Antonello , Carlet Arianna , Riefoli Flavia , Moretti Biagio
Published: February 2021

Nowadays total hip arthroplasty (THA) is widely considered the operation of the century in orthopedic and traumatological fields. Despite this fact, instability and dislocation after THA are a common reason for revision surgery. The purpose of this prospective study is to evaluate the preliminary clinical and radiological results of a novel dual mobility cup. We evaluated 32 consecutive cases of patients who underwent THA using a novel dual mobility cup—with holes in the cup, a modular metallic inlay and a crosslinked polyethylene. All of them were considered at risk of instability of the implant due to primary or concomitant diagnosis. The preoperative Harris hip score was 54.7 on average. At a minimum 2 years follow-up, the mean HHS raised up to a mean value of 88.4; this improvement was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). None of the patients enrolled in this study sustained a postoperative dislocation at a mean follow-up of 39.6 months. Furthermore, no patients sustained modular liner dissociation or an intraprosthetic dislocation. As such, survivorship free from dislocation was 100% at both 2 and 5 years. This study demonstrates that the modular dual mobility (DM) socket provides dual articulation, larger jump distance, and greater range of motion before impingement, which significantly reduce the rate of dislocation.
Towards a Smart E-Waste System Utilizing Supply Chain Participants and Interactive Online Maps
Authors: Shevchenko Tetiana , Saidani Michael , Danko Yuriy , Golysheva Ievgeniia , Chovancová Jana , Vavrek Roman
Published: February 2021

Efficient electronic waste (e-waste) management is one of the vital strategies to save materials, including critical minerals and precious metals with limited global reserves. The e-waste collection issue has gained increasing attention in recent years, especially in developing countries, due to low collection rates. This study aims to search for progressive solutions in the e-waste collection sphere with close-to-zero transport and infrastructure costs and the minimization of consumers’ efforts towards an enhanced e-waste management efficiency and collection rate. Along these lines, the present paper develops a smart reverse system of e-waste from end-of-life electronics holders to local recycling infrastructures based on intelligent information technology (IT) tools involving local delivery services to collect e-waste and connecting with interactive online maps of users’ requests. This system considers the vehicles of local delivery services as potential mobile collection points that collect and deliver e-waste to a local recycling enterprise with a minimum deviation from the planned routes. Besides e-waste transport and infrastructure costs minimization, the proposed smart e-waste reverse system supports the reduction of CO2 through the optimal deployment of e-waste collection vehicles. The present study also advances a solid rationale for involving local e-waste operators as key stakeholders of the smart e-waste reverse system. Deploying the business model canvas (BMC) toolkit, a business model of the developed system has been built for the case of Sumy city, Ukraine, and discussed in light of recent studies.
Dying to Go Green: The Introduction of Resomation in the United Kingdom
Authors: Robinson Georgina M.
Published: February 2021

In an age where concern for the environment is paramount, individuals are continuously looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint—does this now extend to in one’s own death? How can one reduce the environmental impact of their own death? This paper considers various methods of disposing the human body after death, with a particular focus on the environmental impact that the different disposal techniques have. The practices of ‘traditional’ burial, cremation, ‘natural’ burial, and ‘resomation’ will be discussed, with focus on the prospective introduction of the funerary innovation of the alkaline hydrolysis of human corpses, trademarked as ‘Resomation’, in the United Kingdom. The paper situates this process within the history of innovative corpse disposal in the UK in order to consider how this innovation may function within the UK funeral industry in the future, with reference made to possible religious perspectives on the process.
Piety, Power, or Presence? Strategies of Monumental Visualization of Patronage in Late Antique Ravenna
Authors: Carile Maria Cristina
Published: February 2021

Between Late Antiquity and the early Middle Ages, lay and cleric alike felt the need to be remembered in the monuments they sponsored. Accordingly, specific elements of the décor were designed as means capable of bearing the patron’s memory. The late antique churches of Ravenna offer an extraordinary field to understand how patrons left their mark on decorative programs of ancient buildings. There, portraits, inscriptions, and monograms emerge as the primary instruments used in a complex strategy of visual communication. However, each had its own communicative power and peculiar use. Either separately or in connection, they were able to convey strong messages of patronship to the viewer. By focusing on each of these elements in its context and on the ways they all interacted with the surrounding architecture and church decoration, this paper will highlight their value as visual objects capable to immortalize the piety, power, or presence of the patron. Indeed, the silent dialogue enacted into the architectural space with the beholder will allow us to reconstruct the hidden messages that individuals or groups meant to communicate to posterity.
On Fast Jerk–, Acceleration– and Velocity–Restricted Motion Functions for Online Trajectory Generation
Authors: Alpers Burkhard
Published: February 2021

Finding fast motion functions to get from an initial state (distance, velocity, acceleration) to a final one has been of interest for decades. For a solution to be practically relevant, restrictions on jerk, acceleration and velocity have to be taken into account. Such solutions use optimization algorithms or try to directly construct a motion function allowing online trajectory generation. In this contribution, we follow the latter strategy and present an approach which first deals with the situation where initial and final accelerations are 0, and then relates the general case as much as possible to this situation. This leads to a classification with just four major cases. A continuity argument guarantees full coverage of all situations which is not the case or is not clear for other available algorithms. We present several examples that show the variety of different situations and, thus, the complexity of the task. We also describe an implementation in MATLAB® and results from a huge number of test runs regarding accuracy and efficiency, thus demonstrating that the algorithm is suitable for online trajectory generation.
Airborne LiDAR Intensity Correction Based on a New Method for Incidence Angle Correction for Improving Land-Cover Classification
Authors: Wu Qiong , Zhong Ruofei , Dong Pinliang , Mo You , Jin Yunxiang
Published: February 2021

Light detection and range (LiDAR) intensity is an important feature describing the characteristics of a target. The direct use of original intensity values has limitations for users, because the same objects may have different spectra, while different objects may have similar spectra in the overlapping regions of airborne LiDAR intensity data. The incidence angle and range constitute the geometric configuration of the airborne measurement system, which has an important influence on the LiDAR intensity. Considering positional shift and rotation angle deviation of the laser scanner and the inertial measurement unit (IMU), a new method for calculating the incident angle is presented based on the rigorous geometric measurement model for airborne LiDAR. The improved approach was applied to experimental intensity data of two forms from a RIEGL laser scanner system mounted on a manned aerial platform. The results showed that the variation coefficient of the intensity values after correction in homogeneous regions is lower than that obtained before correction. The overall classification accuracy of the corrected intensity data of the first form (amplitude) is significantly improved by 30.01%, and the overall classification accuracy of the corrected intensity data of second form (reflectance) increased by 18.21%. The results suggest that the correction method is applicable to other airborne LiDAR systems. Corrected intensity values can be better used for classification, especially in more refined target recognition scenarios, such as road mark extraction and forest monitoring. This study provides useful guidance for the development of future LiDAR data processing systems.
Analyzing the Spatiotemporal Uncertainty in Urbanization Predictions
Authors: Gómez Jairo Alejandro , Guan ChengHe , Tripathy Pratyush , Duque Juan Carlos , Passos Santiago , Keith Michael , Liu Jialin
Published: February 2021

With the availability of computational resources, geographical information systems, and remote sensing data, urban growth modeling has become a viable tool for predicting urbanization of cities and towns, regions, and nations around the world. This information allows policy makers, urban planners, environmental and civil organizations to make investments, design infrastructure, extend public utility networks, plan housing solutions, and mitigate adverse environmental impacts. Despite its importance, urban growth models often discard the spatiotemporal uncertainties in their prediction estimates. In this paper, we analyzed the uncertainty in the urban land predictions by comparing the outcomes of two different growth models, one based on a widely applied cellular automata model known as the SLEUTH CA and the other one based on a previously published machine learning framework. We selected these two models because they are complementary, the first is based on human knowledge and pre-defined and understandable policies while the second is more data-driven and might be less influenced by any a priori knowledge or bias. To test our methodology, we chose the cities of Jiaxing and Lishui in China because they are representative of new town planning policies and have different characteristics in terms of land extension, geographical conditions, growth rates, and economic drivers. We focused on the spatiotemporal uncertainty, understood as the inherent doubt in the predictions of where and when will a piece of land become urban, using the concepts of certainty area in space and certainty area in time. The proposed analyses in this paper aim to contribute to better urban planning exercises, and they can be extended to other cities worldwide.
60–700 K CTAT and PTAT Temperature Sensors with 4H-SiC Schottky Diodes
Authors: Pascu Razvan , Pristavu Gheorghe , Brezeanu Gheorghe , Draghici Florin , Godignon Philippe , Romanitan Cosmin , Serbanescu Matei , Tulbure Adrian
Published: February 2021

A SiC Schottky dual-diode temperature-sensing element, suitable for both complementary variation of VF with absolute temperature (CTAT) and differential proportional to absolute temperature (PTAT) sensors, is demonstrated over 60–700 K, currently the widest range reported. The structure’s layout places the two identical diodes in close, symmetrical proximity. A stable and high-barrier Schottky contact based on Ni, annealed at 750 °C, is used. XRD analysis evinced the even distribution of Ni2Si over the entire Schottky contact area. Forward measurements in the 60–700 K range indicate nearly identical characteristics for the dual-diodes, with only minor inhomogeneity. Our parallel diode (p-diode) model is used to parameterize experimental curves and evaluate sensing performances over this far-reaching domain. High sensitivity, upwards of 2.32 mV/K, is obtained, with satisfactory linearity (R2 reaching 99.80%) for the CTAT sensor, even down to 60 K. The PTAT differential version boasts increased linearity, up to 99.95%. The lower sensitivity is, in this case, compensated by using a high-performing, low-cost readout circuit, leading to a peak 14.91 mV/K, without influencing linearity.
Machine Embroidered Sensors for Limb Joint Movement-Monitoring Smart Clothing
Authors: Park Su Youn , Lee Joo-Hyeon
Published: February 2021

In this study, a strain gauge sensor based on a change of contact or network structure between conductive materials was implemented using the handle-machine embroidery technique, and the variables (embroidery shape, embroidery distance, embroidery size, and implementation location) affecting its performance were studied. As a result of Experiment I on the structure of embroidery suitable for joint motion monitoring, the embroidery distance, rather than the embroidery size, was found to have a significant effect on the electric resistance changes caused by elongation. Based on the results of Experiment I, two types of zigzag embroideries, four types of embroideries with few contact points, and two types of embroideries with more contact points (all with short distances (2.0)) were selected for Experiment II (the dummy motion experiment). As a result of the dummy motion experiment, it was found that the locations of the suitable embroidered sensors for joint motion monitoring was the HJP (Hinge Joint Position) in the ‘types without a contact point’ (zigzag) and the LHJP (Lower Hinge Joint Position) in the ‘types with more contact points’. On the other hand, although there was no consistency among the ‘types with few contact points’, the resistance changes measured by the 2CP and 7CP embroidered sensors showed similar figures and patterns, and the HJP location was most suitable. The resistance changes measured by the 4CP and 6CP embroidered sensors exhibited no consistent patterns, but the LHJP locations were more suitable. These results indicate that the location of the HJP is suitable for measuring joint motion in the ‘type without a contact point’, and the location of the LHJP is suitable for measuring joint motion when the number of contact points exceeds a certain limit. Among them, the average resistance change of the 9CP sensor located at the LHJP was 40 Ω with the smallest standard deviation of less than 1, and it is thus considered to have the best performance among all the sensors.
Follower: A Novel Self-Deployable Action Recognition Framework
Authors: Yang Xu , Liu Dongjingdian , Liu Jing , Yan Faren , Chen Pengpeng , Niu Qiang
Published: February 2021

Deep learning technology has improved the performance of vision-based action recognition algorithms, but such methods require a large number of labeled training datasets, resulting in weak universality. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel self-deployable ubiquitous action recognition framework that enables a self-motivated user to bootstrap and deploy action recognition services, called FOLLOWER. Our main idea is to build a “fingerprint” library of actions based on a small number of user-defined sample action data. Then, we use the matching method to complete action recognition. The key step is how to construct a suitable “fingerprint”. Thus, a pose action normalized feature extraction method based on a three-dimensional pose sequence is designed. FOLLOWER is mainly composed of the guide process and follow the process. Guide process extracts pose action normalized feature and selects the inner class central feature to build a “fingerprint” library of actions. Follow process extracts the pose action normalized feature in the target video and uses the motion detection, action filtering, and adaptive weight offset template to identify the action in the video sequence. Finally, we collect an action video dataset with human pose annotation to research self-deployable action recognition and action recognition based on pose estimation. After experimenting on this dataset, the results show that FOLLOWER can effectively recognize the actions in the video sequence with recognition accuracy reaching 96.74%.
Making Historical Gyroscopes Alive—2D and 3D Preservations by Sensor Fusion and Open Data Access
Authors: Fritsch Dieter , Wagner Jörg F. , Ceranski Beate , Simon Sven , Niklaus Maria , Zhan Kun , Mammadov Gasim
Published: February 2021

The preservation of cultural heritage assets of all kind is an important task for modern civilizations. This also includes tools and instruments that have been used in the previous decades and centuries. Along with the industrial revolution 200 years ago, mechanical and electrical technologies emerged, together with optical instruments. In the meantime, it is not only museums who showcase these developments, but also companies, universities, and private institutions. Gyroscopes are fascinating instruments with a history dating back 200 years. When J.G.F. Bohnenberger presented his machine to his students in 1810 at the University of Tuebingen, Germany, nobody could have foreseen that this fascinating development would be used for complex orientation and positioning. At the University of Stuttgart, Germany, a collection of 160 exhibits is available and in transition towards their sustainable future. Here, the systems are digitized in 2D, 2.5D, and 3D and are made available for a worldwide community using open access platforms. The technologies being used are computed tomography, computer vision, endoscopy, and photogrammetry. We present a novel workflow for combining voxel representations and colored point clouds, to create digital twins of the physical objects with 0.1 mm precision. This has not yet been investigated and is therefore pioneering work. Advantages and disadvantages are discussed and suggested work for the near future is outlined in this new and challenging field of tech heritage digitization.
Detection of Potassium Deficiency and Momentary Transpiration Rate Estimation at Early Growth Stages Using Proximal Hyperspectral Imaging and Extreme Gradient Boosting
Authors: Weksler Shahar , Rozenstein Offer , Haish Nadav , Moshelion Menachem , Wallach Rony , Ben-Dor Eyal
Published: February 2021

Potassium is a macro element in plants that is typically supplied to crops in excess throughout the season to avoid a deficit leading to reduced crop yield. Transpiration rate is a momentary physiological attribute that is indicative of soil water content, the plant’s water requirements, and abiotic stress factors. In this study, two systems were combined to create a hyperspectral–physiological plant database for classification of potassium treatments (low, medium, and high) and estimation of momentary transpiration rate from hyperspectral images. PlantArray 3.0 was used to control fertigation, log ambient conditions, and calculate transpiration rates. In addition, a semi-automated platform carrying a hyperspectral camera was triggered every hour to capture images of a large array of pepper plants. The combined attributes and spectral information on an hourly basis were used to classify plants into their given potassium treatments (average accuracy = 80%) and to estimate transpiration rate (RMSE = 0.025 g/min, R2 = 0.75) using the advanced ensemble learning algorithm XGBoost (extreme gradient boosting algorithm). Although potassium has no direct spectral absorption features, the classification results demonstrated the ability to label plants according to potassium treatments based on a remotely measured hyperspectral signal. The ability to estimate transpiration rates for different potassium applications using spectral information can aid in irrigation management and crop yield optimization. These combined results are important for decision-making during the growing season, and particularly at the early stages when potassium levels can still be corrected to prevent yield loss.
Cartoon Characters in Children’s Series: Gender Disparities in Body Weight and Food Consumption
Authors: Tzoutzou Milia , Bathrellou Eirini , Matalas Antonia-Leda
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: Media play a significant role in forming audience perceptions about physical external appearance and food consumption patterns. It has been reported that children’s cartoons project slimness, and concomitantly consumption of poor nutritional quality food. However, data on the role of gender in this respect are lacking; thus, this was the aim of the present study. (2) Methods: 100 episodes of the 10 most popular cartoon series were analyzed. Characters’ body weight status was classified into underweight, normal weight and overweight, and foods consumed as core (e.g., fruit, vegetables) and non-core (e.g., sweets, snacks). Messages about characters’ attractiveness were recorded and classified according to their body weight status and gender. (3) Results: Out of 37 protagonists, 12 were female figures (32%), while out of the 10 thin protagonists, 7 were females (70%) and only 3 males (30%). Thin heroines were the recipients of the majority of the messages connotative to physical attractiveness (36 out of 58 messages). However, consumption of core and non-core foods did not differ within genders (core: z = −1.526, p = 0.127, non-core: z = −0.417, p = 0.667). (4) Conclusions: Females seem to be underrepresented in cartoon series but receive the majority of the comments related to physical appearance, with most of them addressing the attractiveness of a thin figure.
Endocrine Management of Transgender Adults: A Clinical Approach
Authors: Iuliano Stefano , Izzo Giulia , Zagari Maria Carmela , Vergine Margherita , Brunetti Francesco Saverio , Brunetti Antonio , Di Luigi Luigi , Aversa Antonio
Published: February 2021

The attention to transgender medicine has changed over the last decade and the interest is most likely going to increase in the future due to the fact that gender-affirming treatments are now being requested by an increasing number of transgender people. Even if gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is based on a multidisciplinary approach, this review is going to focus on the procedures adopted by the endocrinologist in an out-clinic setting once an adult patient is referred by another specialist for ‘gender affirming’ therapy. Before commencing this latter treatment, several background information on unmet needs regarding medical and surgical outcomes should be investigated. We summarized our endocrinological clinical and therapeutic approaches to adult transgender individuals before and during GAHT based on a non-systematic review. Moreover, the possible relationships between GAHT, gender-related pharmacology, and COVID-19 are also reported.
Transfer Learning by Similarity Centred Architecture Evolution for Multiple Residential Load Forecasting
Authors: Gomez-Rosero Santiago , Capretz Miriam A. M. , Mir Syed
Published: February 2021

The development from traditional low voltage grids to smart systems has become extensive and adopted worldwide. Expanding the demand response program to cover the residential sector raises a wide range of challenges. Short term load forecasting for residential consumers in a neighbourhood could lead to a better understanding of low voltage consumption behaviour. Nevertheless, users with similar characteristics can present diversity in consumption patterns. Consequently, transfer learning methods have become a useful tool to tackle differences among residential time series. This paper proposes a method combining evolutionary algorithms for neural architecture search with transfer learning to perform short term load forecasting in a neighbourhood with multiple household load consumption. The approach centres its efforts on neural architecture search using evolutionary algorithms. The neural architecture evolution process retains the patterns of the centre-most house, and later the architecture weights are adjusted for each house in a multihouse set from a neighbourhood. In addition, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to ensure model performance. Experimental results on a large dataset containing hourly load consumption for ten houses in London, Ontario showed that the performance of the proposed approach performs better than the compared techniques. Moreover, the proposed method presents the average accuracy performance of 3.17 points higher than the state-of-the-art LSTM one shot method.