bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Protein Methyltransferases in Immunity
Authors: Song Chaoran , Kim Mi-Yeon , Cho Jae Youl
Published: January 2024

The immune system protects our body from bacteria, viruses, and toxins and removes malignant cells. Activation of immune cells requires the onset of a network of important signaling proteins. Methylation of these proteins affects their structure and biological function. Under stimulation, T cells, B cells, and other immune cells undergo activation, development, proliferation, differentiation, and manufacture of cytokines and antibodies. Methyltransferases alter the above processes and lead to diverse outcomes depending on the degree and type of methylation. In the previous two decades, methyltransferases have been reported to mediate a great variety of immune stages. Elucidating the roles of methylation in immunity not only contributes to understanding the immune mechanism but is helpful in the development of new immunotherapeutic strategies. Hence, we review herein the studies on methylation in immunity, aiming to provide ideas for new approaches.
Visible Light Motivated the Photocatalytic Degradation of P-Nitrophenol by Ca2+-Doped AgInS2
Authors: Wang Xuejiao , Liu Shuyuan , Lin Shu , Qi Kezhen , Yan Ya , Ma Yuhua
Published: January 2024

4-Nitrophenol (4-NP) is considered a priority organic pollutant with high toxicity. Many authors have been committed to developing efficient, green, and environmentally friendly technological processes to treat wastewater containing 4-NP. Here, we investigated how the addition of Ca2+ affects the catalytic degradation of 4-NP with AgInS2 when exposed to light. We synthesized AgInS2 (AIS) and Ca2+-doped AgInS2 (Ca-AIS) with varying amounts of Ca2+ using a low-temperature liquid phase method. The SEM, XRD, XPS, HRTEM, BET, PL, and UV-Vis DRS characteristics were employed to analyze the structure, morphology, and optical properties of the materials. The effects of different amounts of Ca2+ on the photocatalytic degradation of 4-NP were investigated. Under visible light illumination for a duration of 120 min, a degradation rate of 63.2% for 4-Nitrophenol (4-NP) was achieved. The results showed that doping with an appropriate amount of Ca2+ could improve the visible light catalytic activity of AIS. This work provides an idea for finding suitable cheap alkaline earth metal doping agents to replace precious metals for the improvement of photocatalytic activities.
Enzymatic Protein Immobilization for Nanobody Array
Authors: Lu Zhuojian , Ge Rui , Zheng Bin , Zheng Peng
Published: January 2024

Antibody arrays play a pivotal role in the detection and quantification of biomolecules, with their effectiveness largely dependent on efficient protein immobilization. Traditional methods often use heterobifunctional cross-linking reagents for attaching functional residues in proteins to corresponding chemical groups on the substrate surface. However, this method does not control the antibody’s anchoring point and orientation, potentially leading to reduced binding efficiency and overall performance. Another method using anti-antibodies as intermediate molecules to control the orientation can be used but it demonstrates lower efficiency. Here, we demonstrate a site-specific protein immobilization strategy utilizing OaAEP1 (asparaginyl endopeptidase) for building a nanobody array. Moreover, we used a nanobody-targeting enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) as the model system to validate the protein immobilization method for building a nanobody array. Finally, by rapidly enriching eGFP, this method further highlights its potential for rapid diagnostic applications. This approach, characterized by its simplicity, high efficiency, and specificity, offers an advancement in the development of surface-modified protein arrays. It promises to enhance the sensitivity and accuracy of biomolecule detection, paving the way for broader applications in various research and diagnostic fields.
The Effect of Solvents on the Crystal Morphology of Isosorbide Mononitrate and Its Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Li Penghui , Zhang Guimin , Zhou Zongyi , Sun Ying , Wang Yan , Yang Yu , Zhang Xiaolai
Published: January 2024

In this work, the modified attachment energy model was used to predict the crystal morphology of isosorbide mononitrate (ISMN) in the dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) solvent system and dichloromethane-n-hexane (CH2Cl2-C6H14) mixed solvent system. The solvent effect can significantly affect the crystal morphology, which can profoundly impact both the drug’s physicochemical properties and the subsequent technological treatment process. In addition, the interactions between solvent molecules and crystal faces were investigated using molecular dynamics simulation, and radial distribution function (RDF) analysis was performed to determine the types of interactions. The structural parameter S was introduced to characterize the roughness of each crystal surface; the change in the CH2Cl2 diffusion coefficient before and after the addition of C6H14 was analyzed using mean square displacement (MSD). The calculation results of the modified attachment energy from the two solvent systems revealed that C6H14 could accelerate crystal growth, while the crystal morphology was not greatly affected, which is of some significance as a guide for the industrial crystallization process.
New Triphenylphosphonium Salts of Spiropyrans: Synthesis and Photochromic Properties
Authors: Khuzin Artur A. , Galimov Dim I. , Khuzina Liliya L. , Tukhbatullin Adis A.
Published: January 2024

The most important area of modern pharmacology is the targeted delivery of drugs, and one of the most promising classes of chemical compounds for creating drugs of this kind are the photochromic spiropyrans, capable of light-controlled biological activity. This work is devoted to the synthesis and study of the photochromic properties of new triphenylphosphonium salts of spiropyrans. It was found that all the synthesized cationic spiropyrans have high photosensitivity, increased resistance to photodegradation and the ability for photoluminescence.
The Valorisation of Melissa officinalis Distillation By-Products for the Production of Polyphenol-Rich Formulations
Authors: Stini Eirini , Tsimogiannis Dimitrios , Oreopoulou Vassiliki
Published: January 2024

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an aromatic and medicinal plant, rich in bioactive ingredients and with superior antioxidant activity. The essential oil of this plant is an expensive product, so the use of the by-products of the essential oil industry is particularly useful. The aim of this research was to process Melissa officinalis distillation by-products to develop a series of polyphenol-rich formulations. In the present research, lemon balm was distilled in a laboratory-scale distiller, and the recovered by-product was used for further successive extractions with acetone and water, using a fixed-bed semi-batch extractor. Acetone extract exhibited relatively poor results as far as yield, phenolic composition and antiradical activity are concerned. However, the aqueous extract presented high yield in both total phenolic content (i.e., 111 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g, on a dry herb basis (dw)), and anti-radical capacity (205 mg trolox equivalents (TE)/g dw). On a dried extract basis, the results were also impressive, with total phenols reaching 322 mg GAE/g dry extract and antiradical capacity at 593 mg TE/g dry extract. The phenolic components of the extract were identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD. Rosmarinic acid was the major component and amounted to 73.5 mg/g dry extract, while the total identified compounds were quantified at 165.9 mg/g dry extract. Finally, formulations with two different wall materials (gum arabic–maltodextrin and maltodextrin) and two different drying methods (spray-drying and freeze-drying) were applied and evaluated to assess their performance, yield, efficiency and shelf-life of total phenolic content and rosmarinic acid concentration. From the present investigation, it is concluded that after one year of storage, rosmarinic acid does not decrease significantly, while total phenolic content shows a similar decrease for all powders. According to the yield and efficiency of microencapsulation, maltodextrin alone was chosen as the wall material and freeze-drying as the preferred drying method.
Gold(III)-Catalyzed Propargylic Substitution Reaction Followed by Cycloisomerization for Synthesis of Poly-Substituted Furans from N-Tosylpropargyl Amines with 1,3-Dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Morita Nobuyoshi , Uchida Shingo , Chiaki Hitomi , Ishii Naho , Tanikawa Kentaro , Tanaka Kosaku , Hashimoto Yoshimitsu , Tamura Osamu
Published: January 2024

The treatment of N-tosylpropargyl amines 1 with 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds 2 in the presence of AuBr3 (5 mol%) and AgOTf (15 mol%) afforded poly-substituted furans 3 in good-to-high yields via the gold-catalyzed cleavage of the sp3 carbon–nitrogen bond.
Contingent Negative Variation in the Evaluation of Neurocognitive Disorders Due to Possible Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Montoya-Pedrón Arquímedes , Ocaña Montoya Carmen María , Santos Toural Jorge Esteban , Acosta Lee Tania , Sánchez-Hechavarría Miguel Enrique , López-Galán Erislandis , Muñoz-Bustos Gustavo Alejandro
Published: January 2024

The usefulness of Contingent Negative Variation (CNV) potential as a biomarker of neurocognitive disorders due to possible Alzheimer’s disease, is based on its possible physiological correlates. However, its application in the diagnostic evaluation of these disorders is still incipient. The aim of this study is to characterize the patterns of cognitive processing of information in the domain of nonspecific global attention, by recording potential CNV in a group of patients with neurocognitive disorders due to possible Alzheimer’s disease. An experimental study of cases and controls was carried out. The sample included 39 patients classified according to DSM-5 with a neurocognitive disorder subtype possibly due Alzheimer’s disease, and a Control Group of 53 subjects with normal cognitive functions. CNV potential was registered using standard protocol. The analysis of variance obtained significant differences in mean values and confidence intervals of total CNV amplitude between the three study groups. The late CNV segment amplitudes makes it possible to discriminate between the level of mild and major dysfunction in the group of patients. The CNV total amplitudes of potential allows for effective discrimination between normal cognitive functioning and neurocognitive disorders due to possible Alzheimer’s disease.
The Effect of Post-Activation Potentiation Enhancement Alone or in Combination with Caffeine on Anaerobic Performance in Boxers: A Double-Blind, Randomized Crossover Study
Authors: Zhang Yinkai , Diao Penglin , Wang Jie , Li Shiying , Fan Qingmin , Han Yunzhi , Liang Yapu , Wang Ziyu , Del Coso Juan
Published: January 2024

Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) is a physiological phenomenon that refers to an acute excitation of the neuromuscular system following intense exercise that ends in enhanced physical performance in a subsequent bout of exercise. The scientific literature has primarily examined the effectiveness of PAPE alone or combined with caffeine (CAF) intake in all-out tests lasting ≤10 s, as the effect of PAPE is transitory. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of a protocol to induce PAPE alone or in combination with caffeine intake on the 30 s Wingate Anaerobic Test in highly trained boxers. Twenty-five male and highly trained boxers (mean age: 20 ± 1 years) participated in a double-blind, randomized crossover study consisting of three different experimental conditions: (i) control (CON), with no substance intake and no PAPE protocol before the Wingate Anaerobic Test; (ii) PAPE + PLA, involving the intake of a placebo 60 min before and a PAPE protocol comprising a 10 s cycling sprint overloaded with 8.5% of the participants’ body weight 10 min before the Wingate Anaerobic Test; and (iii) PAPE + CAF, involving the intake of 3 mg/kg of caffeine 60 min before and the same PAPE protocol used in the (ii) protocol before the Wingate Anaerobic Test. In all conditions, the participants performed the 30 s version of the Wingate Anaerobic Test with a load equivalent to 7.5% of their body weight, while the cycle ergometer setting was replicated. Immediately following the Wingate test, heart rate (HR), the rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and blood lactate concentration (Bla) were measured. In comparison to CON, PAPE + PLA enhanced mean power (p = 0.024; Effect size [ES] = 0.37) and total work (p = 0.022; ES = 0.38) during the Wingate test, accompanied by an increase in post-test blood lactate concentration (p < 0.01; ES = 0.83). In comparison to CON, PAPE + CAF enhanced mean power (p = 0.001; ES = 0.57), peak power (p = 0.013; ES = 0.57), total work (p = 0.001; ES = 0.53), post-test blood lactate concentration (p < 0.001; ES = 1.43) and participants’ subjective perception of power (p = 0.041). There were no differences in any variable between PAPE + PLA and PAPE + CAF. In summary, a PAPE protocol that involves a 10 s all-out sprint 10 min before the Wingate Anaerobic Test was effective in enhancing Wingate mean power in highly trained boxers. The addition of 3 mg/kg of caffeine to the PAPE protocol produced an effect on mean power of a higher magnitude than PAPE alone, and it enhanced peak power along with participants’ subjective perception of power. From a practical point of view, PAPE before exercise seems to be an effective approach for increasing Wingate performance in highly trained boxers, while the addition of caffeine can increase some benefits, especially peak power.
Immune Diseases: Challenges, Hopes and Recent Achievements
Authors: Dufrasne François
Published: January 2024

Although they have been greatly described for about 50 years, we have gained a much greater understanding of immune diseases since the beginning of this millennium [...]
Vaccination Training for Pharmacy Undergraduates as a Compulsory Part of the Curriculum?—A Multicentric Observation
Authors: Sayyed Shahzad Ahmad , Kinny Florian Andreas , Sharkas Ahmed Reda , Schwender Holger , Woltersdorf Ronja , Ritter Christoph , Laeer Stephanie
Published: January 2024

In order to increase vaccination rates, the Government of Germany introduced vaccination against influenza and COVID-19 into the regular care administered by pharmacists. However, vaccination training is yet not integrated into the German pharmacy curriculum. Therefore, the Institute for Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapy in Duesseldorf had developed an innovative vaccination course using high-fidelity simulation for students. To investigate the acceptance further, the course was carried out at three different German universities (Bonn, Duesseldorf, Greifswald). Students were asked to give their self-assessment before and after and satisfaction only after the training course. Responses from 33 participants from the University of Bonn, 42 from the University of Duesseldorf and 49 from the University of Greifswald were analyzed. Every participant at the respective universities showed a significant increase in their self-assessment and indicated a high level of satisfaction with the course. The results also did not differ significantly between the respective universities. Consequently, the results lead to the hypothesis that the satisfaction of pharmacy students with this kind of training using high-fidelity simulation is very high and attractive, and can be recommended for other German universities. The integration of such vaccination training into the German pharmacy curriculum might be a future step.
Study on the Removal Depth of the Surface Plastic Domain of Silicon-Modified Silicon Carbide
Authors: Qu Yixing , Li Longxiang , Li Xingchang , Pan Shi , Li Ruigang , Zhang Xuejun
Published: January 2024

Silicon carbide (Sic) materials find wide-ranging applications in advanced optical systems within the aerospace, astronomical observation, and high-intensity laser fields. The silicon-modified Sic used in this study was created by depositing an amorphous silicon film on the surface of a Sic substrate using electron beam evaporation. Such hard and brittle materials often yield smooth surfaces when subjected to plastic removal. To address the issue of the removal depth of the surface plastic domain for silicon-modified Sic, we propose a method to calculate the indentation depth based on the critical load for the transition from plastic to brittle removal. We conducted a series of nanoindentation and nanoscratching experiments. The critical depth formula was validated through mechanical parameters such as hardness, elastic modulus, and fracture toughness, and the theoretical critical depth of the modified silicon layer was calculated to be 2.71 μm. The research results indicate that the critical load for obtaining the plastic-to-brittle transition point during the nanoindentation experiment is 886 mN, at which point the depth of plastic removal is 2.95 μm, closely matching the theoretical value. The measurements taken with an atomic force microscope near the critical load reveal a scratch depth of 3.12 μm, with a relative error of less than 5% when compared to the calculated value. This study establishes a solid foundation for achieving high-quality surface processing.
Research on Coherent Stray Light Fringes in Interference Compensation Testing
Authors: Sun Yutong , Cheng Qiang , Hu Haixiang , Zhang Xin , Wang Xiaokun , Li Longxiang , Xue Donglin , Zhang Xuejun
Published: January 2024

Testing accuracy is an essential factor in determining the manufacturing accuracy of aspheric mirrors. Because of the complexity of the null compensation test, the coherent stray lights generated by multiple reflections and transmissions between optical elements and the crosstalk fringes generated by the multi-beam interference of the reference light, test light, and stray lights are superimposed on the interference fringes, resulting in reduced testing accuracy. Focusing on this problem, a simulation analysis method for crosstalk fringes based on ray-tracing and multi-beam interference in interference testing is proposed. The coordinates, amplitudes, and phases of the test light and stray lights on the transmission sphere are traced, and the crosstalk fringes and interference testing fringes and their positions, sizes, and intensity information are simulated via multi-beam interference. The influence of crosstalk fringes on interference fringes is determined. An experimental optical path is built to verify the correctness of the crosstalk fringe simulation method.
Enhancing Commercial Antibiotics with Trans-Cinnamaldehyde in Gram-Positive and Gram-Negative Bacteria: An In Vitro Approach
Authors: Ferrando Natalia , Pino-Otín María Rosa , Ballestero Diego , Lorca Guillermo , Terrado Eva María , Langa Elisa
Published: January 2024

One strategy to mitigate the emergence of bacterial resistance involves reducing antibiotic doses by combining them with natural products, such as trans-cinnamaldehyde (CIN). The objective of this research was to identify in vitro combinations (CIN + commercial antibiotic (ABX)) that decrease the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of seven antibiotics against 14 different Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria, most of them classified as ESKAPE. MIC values were measured for all compounds using the broth microdilution method. The effect of the combinations on these microorganisms was analyzed through the checkboard assay to determine the type of activity (synergy, antagonism, or addition). This analysis was complemented with a kinetic study of the synergistic combinations. Fifteen synergistic combinations were characterized for nine of the tested bacteria. CIN demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the MIC of chloramphenicol, streptomycin, amoxicillin, and erythromycin (94–98%) when tested on Serratia marcescens, Staphylococcus aureus, Pasteurella aerogenes, and Salmonella enterica, respectively. The kinetic study revealed that when the substances were tested alone at the MIC concentration observed in the synergistic combination, bacterial growth was not inhibited. However, when CIN and the ABX, for which synergy was observed, were tested simultaneously in combination at these same concentrations, the bacterial growth inhibition was complete. This demonstrates the highly potent in vitro synergistic activity of CIN when combined with commercial ABXs. This finding could be particularly beneficial in livestock farming, as this sector witnesses the highest quantities of antimicrobial usage, contributing significantly to antimicrobial resistance issues. Further research focused on this natural compound is thus warranted for this reason.
Structural and Functional Strategies in Cenchrus Species to Combat Environmental Extremities Imposed by Multiple Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Basharat Sana , Ahmad Farooq , Hameed Mansoor , Ahmad Muhammad Sajid Aqeel , Asghar Ansa , Fatima Sana , Ahmad Khawaja Shafique , Shah Syed Mohsan Raza , Hashem Abeer , Avila-Quezada Graciela Dolores , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi , Abbas Zaheer
Published: January 2024

Multiple abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, heat, and cold stress prevailing in natural habitats affect plant growth and development. Different species modify their structural and functional traits to combat these abiotic stresses while growing in stressful environments. Cenchrus species, i.e., Cenchrus pennisetiformis, C. setiger, and C. prieurii are widely distributed grasses found growing all over the world. Samples from natural populations were collected from different ecological regions in the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa that were exposed to aridity, salinity, and cold, while one site was designated as normal control. In the present study, structural and functional modifications of three Cenchrus species under abiotic stresses were evaluated. It was expected that each Cenchrus species may evolve different strategies to cope with multiple abiotic stresses. All Cenchrus species responded differently whether growing in normal environment or stressful conditions. The most remarkable feature for survival in C. pennisetiformis under cold stress was increased inflorescence and increased stem and root lignification. C. prieurii showed better tolerance to saline and cold environments. C. setiger showed better development of leaf sheath anatomical traits. The structural and functional modifications in Cenchrus species such as development of mechanical tissues provided structural support, while dermal and parenchymatous tissues increased water storage capacity and minimized water loss. An increase in the concentration of organic osmolytes and ionic content aids turgor pressure maintenance and ionic content crucial for plant growth and development. It was concluded that structural and functional alterations in all Cenchrus species were very specific and critical for survival under different environmental stresses. The ecological fitness of these species relied on maintenance of growth and biomass production, and the development of mechanical, vascular, dermal and parenchyma tissues under stressful environmental conditions. Moreover, accumulation of beneficial ions (K+ and Ca2+) and organic osmolytes were critical in turgor maintenance, hence survival of Cenchrus spp.
Karyotype Variability in Wild Narcissus poeticus L. Populations from Different Environmental Conditions in the Dinaric Alps
Authors: Pustahija Fatima , Bašić Neđad , Siljak-Yakovlev Sonja
Published: January 2024

Narcissus poeticus L. (Amaryllidaceae), a facultative serpentinophyte, is a highly variable species and particularly important ancestor of cultivated daffodils, but is rarely studied in field populations. This study, based on natural populations in the Balkans, focused on karyotype variability, genome size, ploidy and the presence of B chromosomes. Thirteen native populations from different environmental and soil conditions were collected and analyzed using flow cytometry to estimate nuclear genome size, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for physical mapping of rDNA, fluorochrome labeling (chromomycin and Hoechst) for heterochromatin organization and silver nitrate staining of nucleoli for determining rRNA gene activity. The organization of rDNA and natural triploids is reported here for the first time. The presence of individuals with B chromosomes (in 9/13 populations) and chromosomal rearrangements was also detected. The observed B chromosome showed three different morphotypes. The most frequent submetacentric type showed four different patterns, mainly with active ribosomal genes. The results obtained show that N. poeticus has a dynamic genome with variable genome size due to the presence of polyploidy, B chromosomes and chromosomal rearrangements. It is hypothesized that the observed changes reflect the response of the genome to different environmental conditions, where individuals with B chromosomes appear to have certain adaptive advantages.
Economical Evaluation of Reduced Herbicide Doses Application Rates to Control Phalaris brachystachys (Short-Spiked Canary Grass) in a Biennial Wheat–Sunflower Rotation in Mediterranean Dryland: A Modelling Approach
Authors: Zambrano-Navea Casto , Bastida Fernando , Aguilera Maria J. , Gonzalez-Andujar Jose L.
Published: January 2024

Phalaris brachystachys (short-spiked canary grass) is considered to be among the most troublesome cereal weeds in Mediterranean areas. A bioeconomic model, based on population dynamics, competition and economic sub-models, was developed to simulate the long-term economic consequence of using herbicide-based strategies: no herbicide application, full herbicide dose (standard rate) and two reduced dose rates (75 and 50% of the standard rate) to control P. brachystachys in a biennial wheat–sunflower rotation. Simulation results indicated that only herbicide application at a full dose (90% control) and 3/4 dose (80% control) produced positive economic results, with the full dose being the best strategy (EUR 98.65 ha−1 year−1). A sensitivity analysis showed that the economic outcome, in terms of annualized net return, was strongly influenced by changes in yield, price, and fixed costs. In addition, the annualized net return was more sensitive to parameter changes at reduced herbicide doses than at full rate. In the wheat–sunflower rotation system, the application of the full dose of herbicide was the most economical and stable strategy in the long-term. Reduced doses are not a recommended option from an economic point of view. Bioeconomic models provide practical insight into different management approaches for effective weed control.
Synergetic Adsorption of Dyes in Water by Three-Dimensional Graphene and Manganese Dioxide (PU@RGO@MnO2) Structures for Efficient Wastewater Purification
Authors: Zong Shirong , Jiang Jijun , Wang Guodong , Zhong Jin , Tang Chunlan , Zhou Lingxiang , Yang Fan , Yan Wei
Published: January 2024

The improper discharge of industrial wastewater causes severe environmental pollution and the textile industry’s dye usage contributes significantly to industrial wastewater pollution. Hence, an effective method for removing the harmful substance methylene blue (MB) from dye wastewater is proposed. This method adopts a three-dimensional graphene composite material based on manganese dioxide (MnO2), named polyurethane@ reduced graphene oxide@ MnO2 (PU@RGO@MnO2). First, graphene is prepared with hydrazine hydrate as a reducing agent and polyurethane as a framework. MnO2 nanoparticles are synthesized by the reaction of potassium permanganate (KMnO4) with carbon. These nanoparticles are then loaded onto the three-dimensional framework to create the composite material. Finally, adsorption and removal experiments for MB are conducted to compare the performance of the composite material. The results indicate that the graphene based on the polyurethane framework exhibits favorable mechanical properties. The unique three-dimensional lattice structure provides abundant active sites for loading MnO2 nanoparticles, significantly increasing the contact area between the adsorbent and MB solution and thus improving the adsorbent utilization rate (reaching 94%). The nanoparticles synthesized through the reaction of KMnO4 with carbon effectively suppress the agglomeration phenomenon. Additionally, the introduction of dynamic adsorption and dynamic removal modes, aided by a water pump, substantially enhances the adsorption and removal rates, showcasing excellent performance. The research on a multi-porous three-dimensional structure holds significant practical value in water treatment, offering a new research direction for dye wastewater treatment.
PADDME—Process Analysis for Digital Development in Mechanical Engineering
Authors: Gerschütz Benjamin , Consten Yvonne , Goetz Stefan , Wartzack Sandro
Published: January 2024

Design processes are always in motion, since more and more data-driven methods are used for various design and validation tasks. However, small and medium enterprises especially struggle with enhancing their processes with data-driven methods due to a lack of practical and easy-to-use analysis and redesign methods which can handle design process characteristics. In this paper, we present PADDME, which stands for process analysis for digital development in mechanical engineering, as a novel method that, in contrast to currently available analysis methods, considers those design process characteristics with respect to the integration of data-driven methods. Furthermore, a novel technology-readiness framework for digital engineering is introduced. Using the PADDME method, an industrial case study on introducing data-driven methods into the design and evaluation process chain is presented. The usability and novelty of the method are shown by the case study. Thus, PADDME allows a detailed capturing of current design processes and paves the way for process optimisation through data-driven methods. PADDME is a valuable method for advancing digital mechanical engineering processes in small and medium enterprises, and future work will focus on refining and expanding its application and evaluation.
87Sr/86Sr Isotope Ratio as a Tool in Archaeological Investigation: Limits and Risks
Authors: Rossi Mattia , Iacumin Paola , Venturelli Gianpiero
Published: January 2024

During the last forty years, the use of strontium isotopes in archaeology and biogeochemical research has spread widely. These isotopes, alone or in combination with others, can contribute to trace past and present environmental conditions. However, the interpretation of the isotopic values of strontium is not always simple and requires good knowledge of geochemistry and geology. This short paper on the use of strontium isotopes is aimed at those who use this tool (archaeologists, but not only) but who do not have a thorough knowledge of mineralogy, geology, and geochemistry necessary for a good understanding of natural processes involving these isotopes. We report basic knowledge and suggestions for the correct use of these isotopes. The isotopic characteristics of bio-assimilable strontium depend not so much on the isotopic characteristics of the bulk rock as, rather, on those of its more soluble minerals. Before studying human, animal and plant remains, the state of conservation and any conditions of isotopic pollution should be carefully checked. Samples should be collected according to random sampling rules. The data should be treated by a statistical approach. To make comparisons between different areas, it should be borne in mind that the study of current soils can be misleading since the mineralogical modification of soil over time can be very rapid.
Spinoza’s Antidote to Death
Authors: Sánchez de León Serrano José María
Published: January 2024

The paper delves into Spinoza’s perspective on death and how the acquisition of genuine knowledge ensures the mind’s survival after the body’s demise. Spinoza is well known for characterizing the human mind as the idea of the body, which therefore reflects all of the body’s states and is fundamentally connected to its physical destiny, encompassing growth and development as well as eventual extinction. However, Spinoza also holds that the mind possesses the capacity to transcend its limited perspective and contemplate things from the vantage point of God, freeing itself from its mortal fate. The paper’s goal is to dissect the intricacies of this cognitive liberation and evaluate its logical soundness.
Ecclesiological Insights into the Orthodox–Catholic Dialogue
Authors: Keramidas Dimitrios
Published: January 2024

The paper’s aim is to provide a synthetic and at the same time critical reading of the official theological dialogue, known as the “dialogue of truth”, between the Orthodox Church and the Catholic Church. The paper will cover the period from the dialogue’s preparation, also known as the “dialogue of charity”, to the present day. It will analyse the ecclesiological aspects of this dialogue, focusing on sacraments, church ministries, primacy, synodality, and other related issues such as “Uniatism”. The essay will provide an overall evaluation of the dialogue, examining its reception and the need for concrete criteria of unity. Also, the paper will highlight the synodal and sacramental roots of episcopacy and their significance for the unity of the Church. The article will present insights from leading theologians, such as Joseph Ratzinger and John Zizioulas, to better understand the meaning and functions of primacy in the universal Church.
Tiger Habitat Quality Modelling in Malaysia with Sentinel-2 and InVEST
Authors: Louis Valentin , Page Susan E. , Tansey Kevin J. , Jones Laurence , Bika Konstantina , Balzter Heiko
Published: January 2024

Deforestation is a threat to habitat quality and biodiversity. In intact forests, even small levels of deforestation can have profound consequences for vertebrate biodiversity. The risk hotspots are Borneo, the Central Amazon, and the Congo Basin. Earth observation (EO) now provides regular, high-resolution satellite images from the Copernicus Sentinel missions and other platforms. To assess the impact of forest conversion and forest loss on biodiversity and habitat quality, forest loss in a tiger conservation landscape in Malaysia is analysed using Sentinel-2 imagery and the InVEST habitat quality model. Forest losses are identified from satellites using the random forest classification and validated with PlanetScope imagery at 3–5 m resolution for a test area. Two scenarios are simulated using InVEST, one with and one without the forest loss maps. The outputs of the InVEST model are maps of tiger habitat quality and habitat degradation in northeast Peninsular Malaysia. In addition to forest loss, OpenStreetMap road vectors and the GLC2000 land-cover map are used to model habitat sensitivity to threats from roads, railways, water bodies, and urban areas. The landscape biodiversity score simulation results fall sharply from ~0.8 to ~0.2 for tree-covered land cover when forest loss is included in the habitat quality model. InVEST makes a reasonable assumption that species richness is higher in pristine tropical forests than in agricultural landscapes. The landscape biodiversity score is used to compare habitat quality between administrative areas. The coupled EO/InVEST modelling framework presented here can support decision makers in reaching the targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Forest loss information is essential for the quantification of habitat quality and biodiversity in tropical forests. Next generation ecosystem service models should be co-developed alongside EO products to ensure interoperability.
Dilated Spectral–Spatial Gaussian Transformer Net for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Zhang Zhenbei , Wang Shuo , Zhang Weilin
Published: January 2024

In recent years, deep learning-based classification methods for hyperspectral images (HSIs) have gained widespread popularity in fields such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, and geological exploration. This is owing to their ability to automatically extract features and deliver outstanding performance. This study provides a new Dilated Spectral–Spatial Gaussian Transformer Net (DSSGT) model. The DSSGT model incorporates dilated convolutions as shallow feature extraction units, which allows for an expanded receptive field while maintaining computational efficiency. We integrated transformer architecture to effectively capture feature relationships and generate deep fusion features, thereby enhancing classification accuracy. We used consecutive dilated convolutional layers to extract joint low-level spectral–spatial features. We then introduced Gaussian Weighted Pixel Embedding blocks, which leverage Gaussian weight matrices to transform the joint features into pixel-level vectors. By combining the features of each pixel with its neighbouring pixels, we obtained pixel-level representations that are more expressive and context-aware. The transformed vector matrix was fed into the transformer encoder module, enabling the capture of global dependencies within the input data and generating higher-level fusion features with improved expressiveness and discriminability. We evaluated the proposed DSSGT model using five hyperspectral image datasets through comparative experiments. Our results demonstrate the superior performance of our approach compared to those of current state-of-the-art methods, providing compelling evidence of the DSSGT model’s effectiveness.
A U-Shaped Convolution-Aided Transformer with Double Attention for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: Qin Ruiru , Wang Chuanzhi , Wu Yongmei , Du Huafei , Lv Mingyun
Published: January 2024

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and transformers have achieved great success in hyperspectral image (HSI) classification. However, CNNs are inefficient in establishing long-range dependencies, and transformers may overlook some local information. To overcome these limitations, we propose a U-shaped convolution-aided transformer (UCaT) that incorporates convolutions into a novel transformer architecture to aid classification. The group convolution is employed as parallel local descriptors to extract detailed features, and then the multi-head self-attention recalibrates these features in consistent groups, emphasizing informative features while maintaining the inherent spectral–spatial data structure. Specifically, three components are constructed using particular strategies. First, the spectral groupwise self-attention (spectral-GSA) component is developed for spectral attention, which selectively emphasizes diagnostic spectral features among neighboring bands and reduces the spectral dimension. Then, the spatial dual-scale convolution-aided self-attention (spatial-DCSA) encoder and spatial convolution-aided cross-attention (spatial-CCA) decoder form a U-shaped architecture for per-pixel classifications over HSI patches, where the encoder utilizes a dual-scale strategy to explore information in different scales and the decoder adopts the cross-attention for information fusion. Experimental results on three datasets demonstrate that the proposed UCaT outperforms the competitors. Additionally, a visual explanation of the UCaT is given, showing its ability to build global interactions and capture pixel-level dependencies.
Cross-Calibration of HY-1D/COCTS Thermal Emissive Bands in the South China Sea
Authors: Chen Rui , Guan Lei , Liu Mingkun , Qu Liqin
Published: January 2024

Haiyang-1D (HY-1D) is the second operational satellite in China’s Haiyang-1 series of satellites, carrying the Chinese Ocean Color and Temperature Scanner (COCTS) to provide ocean color and temperature observations. The radiometric calibration is a prerequisite to guarantee the quality of the satellite observations and the derived products, and the radiometric calibration of the thermal emissive bands of HY-1D/COCTS can effectively improve the accuracy of sea surface temperature (SST) derived from the thermal infrared data. In this paper, a study on the regional cross-calibration of the COCTS thermal emissive bands is conducted for high-accuracy SST observations in the South China Sea. The Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on board the NOAA-20 satellite launched by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is selected as the calibration reference sensor, and a double-difference cross-calibration method is used for HY-1D/COCTS thermal infrared brightness temperature (BT) evaluation. The results show that the bias of the 11 µm and 12 µm thermal emissive bands of COCTS and VIIRS in the South China Sea are 0.101 K and 0.892 K, respectively, and the differences in BTs between the two sensors show temperature dependence. The cross-calibration coefficients are obtained and used to correct the BT of the COCTS thermal emissive bands. The bias of the BT of the 11 µm and 12 µm bands of COCTS are about 0.01 K after cross-calibration. To further validate the results, COCTS post-calibration data were examined using the NOAA-20 Cross-track Infrared Sounder (CrIS) data as a third-party source. The BT is calculated with the spectral response functions of the COCTS thermal emissive bands using the convolution calculation of the CrIS hyperspectral region observations. The comparison shows a small bias between the post-calibration COCTS thermal emissive band observations and CrIS, which is consistent with the comparison between VIIRS and CrIS. The accuracy of the post-calibration COCTS thermal emissive band BT data in the South China Sea has been significantly improved.
Identifying Seismic Anomalies via Wavelet Maxima Analysis of Satellite Microwave Brightness Temperature Observations
Authors: Wu Haochen , Xiong Pan , Chen Jianghe , Zhang Xuemin , Yang Xing
Published: January 2024

This study develops a wavelet maxima-based methodology to extract anomalous signals from microwave brightness temperature (MBT) observations for seismogenic activity. MBT, acquired via satellite microwave radiometry, enables subsurface characterization penetrating clouds. Five surface categories of the epicenter area were defined contingent on position (oceanic/terrestrial) and ambient traits (soil hydration, vegetal covering). Continuous wavelet transform was applied to preprocess annualized MBT readings preceding and succeeding prototypical events of each grouping, utilizing optimized wavelet functions and orders tailored to individualized contexts. Wavelet maxima graphs visually portraying signal intensity variations facilitated the identification of aberrant phenomena, including pre-seismic accrual, co-seismic perturbation, and postseismic remission signatures. The casework found 10 GHz horizontal-polarized MBT optimally detected signals for aquatic and predominantly humid/vegetative settings, whereas 36 GHz horizontal-polarized performed best for arid, vegetated landmasses. Quantitative machine learning methods are warranted to statistically define selection standards and augment empirical forecasting leveraging lithospheric stress state inferences from sensitive MBT parametrization.
A New Waveform Design Method for Multi-Target Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar Imaging Based on Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing Chirp
Authors: Zou Xuebo , Jin Guanghu , He Feng , Zhang Yongsheng
Published: January 2024

With the increasing use of the strategy and group target attack method in the modern battlefield, multi-target inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) imaging simultaneously with high efficiency draws more and more attention, which gives a promising prospect for aerospace target detection and recognition in the multi-target scenario. To overcome the shortcomings of traditional multi-target imaging with one beam at one pulse repetition time (PRT) based on phase array radar (PAR), this paper proposes a novel multi-target imaging waveform design method based on the newly full digital array radar (DAR). Firstly, we propose using radar waveform diversity with 2D orthogonality to realize multi-target ISAR imaging with high imaging quality and efficiency. Then, to meet the constant modulus requirement for maximizing the transmitting power, orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) chirp theory is proposed to directly generate the transmit waveform instead of the traditional optimization method with the nonconvex problem for waveform design. Based on time-variant weighted and time diversity technology, a of group transmit waveforms is designed, which can form multiple beams simultaneously and make the signals arriving at different targets approximately orthogonal. Finally, simulations and experiments are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
An Adaptive Unscented Kalman Filter for the Estimation of the Vehicle Velocity Components, Slip Angles, and Slip Ratios in Extreme Driving Manoeuvres
Authors: Alshawi Aymen , De Pinto Stefano , Stano Pietro , van Aalst Sebastiaan , Praet Kylian , Boulay Emilie , Ivone Davide , Gruber Patrick , Sorniotti Aldo
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a novel unscented Kalman filter (UKF) implementation with adaptive covariance matrices (ACMs), to accurately estimate the longitudinal and lateral components of vehicle velocity, and thus the sideslip angle, tire slip angles, and tire slip ratios, also in extreme driving conditions, including tyre–road friction variations. The adaptation strategies are implemented on both the process noise and measurement noise covariances. The resulting UKF ACM is compared against a well-tuned baseline UKF with fixed covariances. Experimental test results in high tyre–road friction conditions show the good performance of both filters, with only a very marginal benefit of the ACM version. However, the simulated extreme tests in variable and low-friction conditions highlight the superior performance and robustness provided by the adaptation mechanism.
An Automated Instance Segmentation Method for Crack Detection Integrated with CrackMover Data Augmentation
Authors: Zhao Mian , Xu Xiangyang , Bao Xiaohua , Chen Xiangsheng , Yang Hao
Published: January 2024

Crack detection plays a critical role in ensuring road safety and maintenance. Traditional, manual, and semi-automatic detection methods have proven inefficient. Nowadays, the emergence of deep learning techniques has opened up new possibilities for automatic crack detection. However, there are few methods with both localization and segmentation abilities, and most perform poorly. The consistent nature of pavement over a small mileage range gives us the opportunity to make improvements. A novel data-augmentation strategy called CrackMover, specifically tailored for crack detection methods, is proposed. Experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of CrackMover for various methods. Moreover, this paper presents a new instance segmentation method for crack detection. It adopts a redesigned backbone network and incorporates a cascade structure for the region-based convolutional network (R-CNN) part. The experimental evaluation showcases significant performance improvements achieved by these approaches in crack detection. The proposed method achieves an average precision of 33.3%, surpassing Mask R-CNN with a Residual Network 50 backbone by 8.6%, proving its effectiveness in detecting crack distress.