bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermoresponsive Zinc TetraPhenylPorphyrin Photosensitizer/Dextran Graft Poly(N-IsoPropylAcrylAmide) Copolymer/Au Nanoparticles Hybrid Nanosystem: Potential for Photodynamic Therapy Applications
Authors: Yeshchenko Oleg A. , Kutsevol Nataliya V. , Tomchuk Anastasiya V. , Khort Pavlo S. , Virych Pavlo A. , Chumachenko Vasyl A. , Kuziv Yulia I. , Marinin Andrey I. , Cheng Lili , Nie Guochao
Published: August 2022

The thermoresponsive Zinc TetraPhenylPorphyrin photosensitizer/Dextran poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) graft copolymer/Au Nanoparticles (ZnTPP/D-g-PNIPAM/AuNPs) triple hybrid nanosystem was synthesized in aqueous solution as a nanodrug for potential use in thermally driven and controlled photodynamic therapy applications. The aqueous solution of the nanosystem has demonstrated excellent stability in terms of aggregation and sedimentation several days after preparation. Optimal concentrations of the components of hybrid nanosystem providing the lowest level of aggregation and the highest plasmonic enhancement of electronic processes in the photosensitizer molecules have been determined. It has been revealed that the shrinking of D-g-PNIPAM macromolecule during a thermally induced phase transition leads to the release of both ZnTPP molecules and Au NPs from the ZnTPP/D-g-PNIPAM/AuNPs macromolecule and the strengthening of plasmonic enhancement of the electronic processes in ZnTPP molecules bound with the polymer macromolecule. The 2.7-fold enhancement of singlet oxygen photogeneration under resonant with surface plasmon resonance has been observed for ZnTPP/D-g-PNIPAM/AuNPs proving the plasmon nature of such effect. The data obtained in vitro on wild strains of Staphylococcus aureus have proved the high potential of such nanosystem for rapid photodynamic inactivation of microorganisms particular in wounds or ulcers on the body surface.
Facile Synthesis of Low-Cost Copper-Silver and Cobalt-Silver Alloy Nanoparticles on Reduced Graphene Oxide as Efficient Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Milikić Jadranka , Knežević Sara , Stojadinović Stevan , Alsaiari Mabkhoot , Harraz Farid A. , Santos Diogo M. F. , Šljukić Biljana
Published: August 2022

Copper-silver and cobalt-silver alloy nanoparticles deposited on reduced graphene oxide (CuAg/rGO and CoAg/rGO) were synthesized and examined as electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and hydrogen peroxide reduction reaction (HPRR) in alkaline media. Characterization of the prepared samples was done by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy with integrated energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). CuAg/rGO and CoAg/rGO nanoparticles diameter ranged from 0.4 to 9.2 nm. The Ag loading was ca. 40 wt.% for both electrocatalysts, with that for Cu and Co being 35 and 17 wt.%, respectively. CoAg/rGO electrocatalyst showed a Tafel slope of 109 mV dec−1, significantly lower than that for CuAg/rGO (184 mV dec−1), suggesting faster ORR kinetics. Additionally, a higher diffusion current density was obtained for CoAg/rGO (−2.63 mA cm−2) than for CuAg/rGO (−1.74 mA cm−2). The average value of the number of electrons transferred during ORR was 2.8 for CuAg/rGO and 3.3 for CoAg/rGO electrocatalyst, further confirming the higher ORR activity of the latter. On the other hand, CuAg/rGO showed higher peak current densities (−3.96 mA cm−2) for HPRR compared to those recorded for CoAg/rGO electrocatalyst (−1.96 mA cm−2).
Maternal Factors Associated with Non-Exclusive Breastfeeding in Haitian Immigrant Women in Southern Chile
Authors: Rodríguez-Fernández Alejandra , Sanhueza-Riquelme Ximena , Cárcamo-Vargas Gloria , Parra-Flores Julio , Rojas-Rodríguez Ana Lizette , Fuente Marcela Ruíz-De la , Maury-Sintjago Eduard
Published: August 2022

There is limited knowledge concerning factors that affect non-exclusive breastfeeding (NEBF) practices in immigrant populations, especially in Latin America. The objective of the present study was to determine the association between maternal factors and the prevalence of NEBF in Haitian immigrant women in southern Chile. This was an analytical cross-sectional study. The probabilistic sample consisted of 173 Haitian women who gave informed consent. Sociodemographic and dietary-nutritional information was collected from all participants. Bivariate (χ2) and multivariate (logistic regression) inferential statistics were applied. All analyses were performed with the STATA 16.0 statistical software, and the significance level was established as α < 0.05. The prevalence of EBF at 6 mo was 54.3%. Maternal factors associated with a lower prevalence of EBF were not having permanent residency (OR: 2.34, CI: 2.18–2.83), residency <12 months (OR: 2.23, CI: 2.09–2.78), limited knowledge of breastfeeding (OR: 1.96; CI: 1.81–2.27), and low educational attainment (OR: 1.78; CI: 1.61–2.11). The protective factors were employment (OR: 0.36, CI: 0.28–0.40), access to basic services (OR: 0.32; CI: 0.22–0.48), and Spanish proficiency (OR: 0.29; CI: 0.20–0.51). Haitian immigrant women without legal residency, recently arrived, with low educational attainment, and poor knowledge of breastfeeding have more risk of not providing exclusive breastfeeding. Targeted interventions for mothers with these risk factors may help improve EBF rates.
Automated Radiosynthesis, Preliminary In Vitro/In Vivo Characterization of OncoFAP-Based Radiopharmaceuticals for Cancer Imaging and Therapy
Authors: Bartoli Francesco , Elsinga Philip , Nazario Luiza Reali , Zana Aureliano , Galbiati Andrea , Millul Jacopo , Migliorini Francesca , Cazzamalli Samuele , Neri Dario , Slart Riemer H. J. A. , Erba Paola Anna
Published: August 2022

FAP-targeted radiopharmaceuticals represent a breakthrough in cancer imaging and a viable option for therapeutic applications. OncoFAP is an ultra-high-affinity ligand of FAP with a dissociation constant of 680 pM. OncoFAP has been recently discovered and clinically validated for PET imaging procedures in patients with solid malignancies. While more and more clinical validation is becoming available, the need for scalable and robust procedures for the preparation of this new class of radiopharmaceuticals continues to increase. In this article, we present the development of automated radiolabeling procedures for the preparation of OncoFAP-based radiopharmaceuticals for cancer imaging and therapy. A new series of [68Ga]Ga-OncoFAP, [177Lu]Lu-OncoFAP and [18F]AlF-OncoFAP was produced with high radiochemical yields. Chemical and biochemical characterization after radiolabeling confirmed its excellent stability, retention of high affinity for FAP and absence of radiolysis by-products. The in vivo biodistribution of [18F]AlF-NOTA-OncoFAP, a candidate for PET imaging procedures in patients, was assessed in mice bearing FAP-positive solid tumors. The product showed rapid accumulation in solid tumors, with an average of 6.6% ID/g one hour after systemic administration and excellent tumor-to-healthy organs ratio. We have developed simple, quick, safe and robust synthetic procedures for the preparation of theranostic OncoFAP-compounds based on Gallium-68, Lutetium-177 and Fluorine-18 using the commercially available FASTlab synthesis module.
Cannabidiol Reduces Short- and Long-Term High Glutamate Release after Severe Traumatic Brain Injury and Improves Functional Recovery
Authors: Santiago-Castañeda Cindy , Huerta de la Cruz Saúl , Martínez-Aguirre Christopher , Orozco-Suárez Sandra Adela , Rocha Luisa
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to determine if orally administered cannabidiol (CBD) lessens the cortical over-release of glutamate induced by a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and facilitates functional recovery. The short-term experiment focused on identifying the optimal oral pretreatment of CBD. Male Wistar rats were pretreated with oral administration of CBD (50, 100, or 200 mg/kg) daily for 7 days. Then, extracellular glutamate concentration was estimated by cortical microdialysis before and immediately after a severe TBI. The long-term experiment focused on evaluating the effect of the optimal treatment of CBD (pre- vs. pre- and post-TBI) 30 days after trauma. Sensorimotor function, body weight, and mortality rate were evaluated. In the short term, TBI induced a high release of glutamate (738% ± 173%; p < 0.001 vs. basal). Oral pretreatment with CBD at all doses tested reduced glutamate concentration but with higher potency at when animals received 100 mg/kg (222 ± 33%, p < 0.01 vs. TBI), an effect associated with a lower mortality rate (22%, p < 0.001 vs. TBI). In the long-term experiment, the TBI group showed a high glutamate concentration (149% p < 0.01 vs. SHAM). In contrast, animals receiving the optimal treatment of CBD (pre- and pre/post-TBI) showed glutamate concentrations like the SHAM group (p > 0.05). This effect was associated with high sensorimotor function improvement. CBD pretreatment, but not pre-/post-treatment, induced a higher body weight gain (39% ± 2.7%, p < 0.01 vs. TBI) and lower mortality rate (22%, p < 0.01 vs. TBI). These results support that orally administered CBD reduces short- and long-term TBI-induced excitotoxicity and facilitated functional recovery. Indeed, pretreatment with CBD was sufficient to lessen the adverse sequelae of TBI.
Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Loaded with Dexamethasone Prevent Inflammatory Responses in Primary Non-Parenchymal Liver Cells
Authors: Medina-Montano Carolina , Rivero Berti Ignacio , Gambaro Rocío , Limeres María , Svensson Malin , Padula Gisel , Chain Cecilia , Cisneros José , Castro Guillermo , Grabbe Stephan , Bros Matthias , Gehring Stephan , Islan German , Cacicedo Maximiliano
Published: August 2022

Liver inflammation represents a major clinical problem in a wide range of pathologies. Among the strategies to prevent liver failure, dexamethasone (DXM) has been widely used to suppress inflammatory responses. The use of nanocarriers for encapsulation and sustained release of glucocorticoids to liver cells could provide a solution to prevent severe side effects associated with systemic delivery as the conventional treatment regime. Here we describe a nanostructured lipid carrier developed to efficiently encapsulate and release DXM. This nano-formulation proved to be stable over time, did not interact in vitro with plasma opsonins, and was well tolerated by primary non-parenchymal liver cells (NPCs). Released DXM preserved its pharmacological activity, as evidenced by inducing robust anti-inflammatory responses in NPCs. Taken together, nanostructured lipid carriers may constitute a reliable platform for the delivery of DXM to treat pathologies associated with chronic liver inflammation.
Experimental HER2-Targeted Therapy Using ADAPT6-ABD-mcDM1 in Mice Bearing SKOV3 Ovarian Cancer Xenografts: Efficacy and Selection of Companion Imaging Counterpart
Authors: Garousi Javad , Xu Tianqi , Liu Yongsheng , Vorontsova Olga , Hober Sophia , Orlova Anna , Tolmachev Vladimir , Gräslund Torbjörn , Vorobyeva Anzhelika
Published: August 2022

Overexpression of the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) in breast and gastric cancer is exploited for targeted therapy using monoclonal antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates. Small engineered scaffold proteins, such as the albumin binding domain (ABD) derived affinity proteins (ADAPTs), are a promising new format of targeting probes for development of drug conjugates with well-defined structure and tunable pharmacokinetics. Radiolabeled ADAPT6 has shown excellent tumor-targeting properties in clinical trials. Recently, we developed a drug conjugate based on the HER2-targeting ADAPT6 fused to an albumin binding domain (ABD) for increased bioavailability and conjugated to DM1 for cytotoxic action, designated as ADAPT6-ABD-mcDM1. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic efficacy of this conjugate in mice bearing HER2-expressing SKOV3 ovarian cancer xenografts. A secondary aim was to evaluate several formats of imaging probes for visualization of HER2 expression in tumors. Administration of ADAPT6-ABD-mcDM1 provided a significant delay of tumor growth and increased the median survival of the mice, in comparison with both a non-targeting homologous construct (ADAPTNeg-ABD-mcDM1) and the vehicle-treated groups, without inducing toxicity to liver or kidneys. Moreover, the evaluation of imaging probes showed that small scaffold proteins, such as 99mTc(CO)3-ADAPT6 or the affibody molecule 99mTc-ZHER2:41071, are well suited as diagnostic companions for potential stratification of patients for ADAPT6-ABD-mcDM1–based therapy.
Supramolecular Adhesive Materials with Antimicrobial Activity for Emerging Biomedical Applications
Authors: Hou Changshun , Chang Yung-Fu , Yao Xi
Published: August 2022

Traditional adhesives or glues such as cyanoacrylates, fibrin glue, polyethylene glycol, and their derivatives have been widely used in biomedical fields. However, they still suffer from numerous limitations, including the mechanical mismatch with biological tissues, weak adhesion on wet surfaces, biological incompatibility, and incapability of integrating desired multifunction. In addition to adaptive mechanical and adhesion properties, adhesive biomaterials should be able to integrate multiple functions such as stimuli-responsiveness, control-releasing of small or macromolecular therapeutic molecules, hosting of various cells, and programmable degradation to fulfill the requirements in the specific biological systems. Therefore, rational molecular engineering and structural designs are required to facilitate the development of functional adhesive materials. This review summarizes and analyzes the current supramolecular design strategies of representative adhesive materials, serving as a general guide for researchers seeking to develop novel adhesive materials for biomedical applications.
Effects of Yam (Dioscorea rotundata) Mucilage on the Physical, Rheological and Stability Characteristics of Ice Cream
Authors: Lozano Ermides , Padilla Karen , Salcedo Jairo , Arrieta Alvaro , Andrade-Pizarro Ricardo
Published: August 2022

In the present investigation, yam mucilage was evaluated as a stabilizer and emulsifier in the formulation of vanilla flavored ice cream; physicochemical, rheological, and stability characteristics were determined. A completely randomized bifactorial design was used (yam mucilage: Carboxymethylcellulose ratio with the following levels: 100:0, 80:20, 50:50, and 20:80, and stabilizers concentration with levels of 0.4 and 0.8%). Results showed an increase in the protein content present in ice cream mixture as the amount of mucilage increases. Rheologically, it was found that ice cream has the characteristic behavior of a pseudoplastic fluid, presenting a viscoelastic structure where elastic behavior predominates. In addition, ratios with a higher content of mucilage incorporated a greater volume of air and presented the longest melting times, delaying drops falling time; in the same way mucilage gives ice cream a freezing temperature between −6.1 to −2.8 °C, indicating that the application of mucilage in food industry is possible due to its nutritional value, and it gives ice cream stability properties.
DEAE-Dextran Coated AgNPs: A Highly Blendable Nanofiller Enhances Compressive Strength of Dental Resin Composites
Authors: Azhar Shabia , Rana Nosheen Fatima , Kashif Amer Sohail , Tanweer Tahreem , Shafique Iqra , Menaa Farid
Published: August 2022

Micro-crack formation and resultant bacterial infiltration are major causes of secondary caries formation in dental resin-based composite restorations. Improving dental resin composites’ mechanical and biological properties using highly bendable nanoparticles (NPs) can resolve this issue. This study aims to develop novel Diethylaminoethyl (DEAE)-Dextran silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and subsequently modify composite resins with these NPs to enhance their mechanical and antibacterial properties. DEAE-Dextran AgNPs were successfully synthesized using a chemical reduction method that was confirmed with the help of ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Zeta potential, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Antibacterial activity of a composite disc with DEAE-Dextran AgNPs was tested against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and oral microcosm. The composite discs prepared with DEAE-Dextran AgNPs exhibited excellent antibacterial activity compared with composite resin reinforced by simple AgNPs (p < 0.05). Mechanical properties were significantly enhanced by adding DEAE-Dextran into composite resin (p < 0.05). Moreover, unlike AgNPs, DEAE-Dextran AgNPs were found to be less hemolytic. The results establish strong ground applications for DEAE-Dextran-modified dental composite resins in restorative dental applications.
Corrosion Resistance and Thermal Conductivity Enhancement of Reduced Graphene Oxide–BaSO4–Epoxy Composites
Authors: Yung Tung-Yuan , Lu Wen-Fang , Tsai Kun-Chao , Chen Jeng-Shiung , Pang Kwan-Nang , Tzeng Yu-Chih , Cheng Hsin-Ming , Chen Po-Tuan
Published: August 2022

The results of studies on the corrosion protectiveness and thermal conductivity of reduced graphene oxide–BaSO4 epoxy composites are reported here. A commercial epoxy resin and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were blended with a hardening reagent and then mixed with prepared BaSO4–epoxy resin (B–epoxy). The reduced graphene oxide–BaSO4–epoxy composite (rGO–B–epoxy) paste was used to coat the surfaces of Al 7205 alloy and the corrosion and thermal properties were investigated. A corrosion test in a 3.5 wt% synthetic sea water solution showed that the composite coating containing BaSO4 had the best corrosion resistance. Moreover, the rGO–B–epoxy composite showed better protection against corrosion than the epoxy alone. The rGO–B–epoxy composite with 5 wt% BaSO4 had an in-plane coefficient of thermal conductivity of approximately 165.0 W/m K, and the in-plane thermal diffusivity was 71.38 mm2/s. In standard thermal conductivity tests, all three samples had values below 40 W/m K. The rGO–B–epoxy composites showed good surface corrosion protection and in-plane thermal conductivity.
Application of Fibrin Associated with Photobiomodulation as a Promising Strategy to Improve Regeneration in Tissue Engineering: A Systematic Review
Authors: Reis Carlos Henrique Bertoni , Buchaim Daniela Vieira , Ortiz Adriana de Cássia , Fideles Simone Ortiz Moura , Dias Jefferson Aparecido , Miglino Maria Angelica , Teixeira Daniel de Bortoli , Pereira Eliana de Souza Bastos Mazuqueli , da Cunha Marcelo Rodrigues , Buchaim Rogerio Leone
Published: August 2022

Fibrin, derived from proteins involved in blood clotting (fibrinogen and thrombin), is a biopolymer with different applications in the health area since it has hemostasis, biocompatible and three-dimensional physical structure properties, and can be used as scaffolds in tissue regeneration or drug delivery system for cells and/or growth factors. Fibrin alone or together with other biomaterials, has been indicated for use as a biological support to promote the regeneration of stem cells, bone, peripheral nerves, and other injured tissues. In its diversity of forms of application and constitution, there are platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), Leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF), fibrin glue or fibrin sealant, and hydrogels. In order to increase fibrin properties, adjuvant therapies can be combined to favor tissue repair, such as photobiomodulation (PBM), by low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or LEDs (Light Emitting Diode). Therefore, this systematic review aimed to evaluate the relationship between PBM and the use of fibrin compounds, referring to the results of previous studies published in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and Web of Science databases. The descriptors “fibrin AND low-level laser therapy” and “fibrin AND photobiomodulation” were used, without restriction on publication time. The bibliographic search found 44 articles in PubMed/MEDLINE, of which 26 were excluded due to duplicity or being outside the eligibility criteria. We also found 40 articles in Web of Science and selected 1 article, 152 articles in Scopus and no article selected, totaling 19 articles for qualitative analysis. The fibrin type most used in combination with PBM was fibrin sealant, mainly heterologous, followed by PRF or L-PRF. In PBM, the gallium-aluminum-arsenide (GaAlAs) laser prevailed, with a wavelength of 830 nm, followed by 810 nm. Among the preclinical studies, the most researched association of fibrin and PBM was the use of fibrin sealants in bone or nerve injuries; in clinical studies, the association of PBM with medication-related treatments osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). Therefore, there is scientific evidence of the contribution of PBM on fibrin composites, constituting a supporting therapy that acts by stimulating cell activity, angiogenesis, osteoblast activation, axonal growth, anti-inflammatory and anti-edema action, increased collagen synthesis and its maturation, as well as biomolecules.
Biocomposites Based on Polyamide 11/Diatoms with Different Sized Frustules
Authors: Dobrosielska Marta , Dobrucka Renata , Kozera Paulina , Kozera Rafał , Kołodziejczak Marta , Gabriel Ewa , Głowacka Julia , Jałbrzykowski Marek , Kurzydłowski Krzysztof J. , Przekop Robert E.
Published: August 2022

Amorphous diatomite was used as a filler for a thermoplastic polymer of polyamide 11 obtained from natural sources. The diatomite particles of different sizes were previously fractionated by sedimentation to obtain powders with varying particle size distribution, including powders with or without frustule particles, crushed, uncrushed or agglomerated. Biocomposites containing 2.5, 5, 10 and 20% filler were tested for their mechanical properties, including tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength. In addition, a particle size analysis (by Dynamic Light Scattering, DLS) was performed and the dispersion of the filler in the polymer matrix (Scanning Electron Microscopy, SEM), thermal parameters (Differential Scanning Calorimetry, DSC, and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis, DMA) were determined. Testing showed that biocomposites modified with diatomaceous earth have a higher mechanical strength than the reference system, especially with larger amounts of the filler (10 and 20%), e.g., the tensile strength of pure PA11 is about 46 MPa, while 20OB and 20OF 47.5 and 47 MPa, respectively, while an increase in max. flexural strength and flexural modulus is also observed compared to pure PA11 by a maximum of 63 and 54%, respectively Diatomaceous earth can be obtained in various ways—it is commercially available or it is possible to breed diatoms in laboratory conditions, while the use of commercially available diatomite, which contains diatoms of different sizes, eliminates the possibility of controlling mechanical parameters by filling biocomposites with a filler with the desired particle size distribution, and diatom breeding is not possible on an industrial scale. Our proposed biocomposite based on fractionated diatomaceous earth using a sedimentation process addresses the current need to produce biocomposite materials from natural sources, and moreover, the nature of the process, due to its simplicity, can be successfully used on an industrial scale.
Temperature and Strain Rate Effects on the Uniaxial Tensile Behaviour of ETFE Foils
Authors: Surholt Felix , Uhlemann Jörg , Stranghöner Natalie
Published: August 2022

With the first use of ETFE foils in building structures in the 1980s at the Burgers’ Zoo in Arnhem, Netherlands, the implementation of ETFE foils in roof and façade systems in large-span structures has become steadily more prominent. To safely design ETFE foil structures, their mechanical behaviour has to be fundamentally understood. Until now, several research studies have been published investigating this material’s behaviour. However, the parameters influencing these plastic’s mechanical behaviour, such as the strain rate or the test temperature, have only been investigated separately but not simultaneously. In this contribution, an analytical model is presented which describes the mechanical behaviour of ETFE foils under varying test temperatures and strain rates simultaneously. The material model has been checked against experimental results achieved for materials from three different international producers and two different commonly used foil thicknesses with significant differences in their mechanical responses (so that it can be assumed that the international market is represented). In the first step, uniaxial tensile tests on strip specimens were performed to describe the nonlinear and viscoelastic temperature- and strain rate-dependent material behaviour under uniaxial tension. The achieved stress-strain curves exhibited, as expected, the two commonly so-called yield points, which can be taken as separators for three different material stages: viscoelastic, viscoelastic-plastic, and viscoplastic. In the second step, by separating the uniaxial tensile response into these three stages, two interdependent functions could be derived based on the well-known Ramberg-Osgood material model to simulate the viscoelastic and viscoelastic-plastic material behaviour of ETFE foils. For this purpose, analytical functions were developed to calculate the model parameters considering the influence of the test temperature and the test speed. It can be shown that the newly developed analytical material model fits well with the experimental results. With the use of the derived nonlinear material model, design engineers can predict the material’s mechanical behaviour considering the environmental conditions on site while maintaining independence from the material’s supplier.
Degradability and Properties of PBAT-Based Biodegradable Mulch Films in Field and Their Effects on Cotton Planting
Authors: Liu Qi , Wang Yue , Liu Jialei , Liu Xiaowei , Dong Yanyan , Huang Xin , Zhen Zhichao , Lv Jun , He Wenqing
Published: August 2022

Biodegradable mulches (BDMs) are considered promising alternative green materials to achieve the substitution of polythene (PE) films to reduce plastic pollution. However, whether the BDMs are sufficiently effective to promote cotton production as PE film is a controversial topic. In this study, laboratory determination and field experiments were conducted with one pure Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) film (BDM), two commercial PBAT-based films (BDM1 and BDM2), and one PE film to (ⅰ) compare the degradation behavior, morphology, and property changes during field application, and (ⅱ) reveal their effects on biomass accumulation and cotton yield. Degradation behavior, degradation rate, structure, thermal stability, crystallinity, and molecular weight changes of the films before and after mulching were investigated and characterized. Water vapor transmission rate and mechanical properties of the films and the effects these on soil temperature, crop growth, and cotton yield were discussed. Results show that the three PBAT-based mulch films gradually degraded during mulching. The molecular weight, thermal stability, and crystallinity of BDM1 and BDM2 decreased. Interestingly, BDM showed the opposite characteristics, but the degradation degree was greatest at harvest. PE film showed no significant changes in its microscopic appearance, thermal performance, or properties. These PBAT-based films were positively correlated with the complete coverage period of the films. In-depth studies focused on BDMs with a longer mulching period must be developed to promote the substitution of BDMs into PE to reduce the residual mulch pollution in cotton fields.
Synthesis of Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs)-Nanocellulose Composite and Its Thermal Degradation Studied by TGA/FTIR
Authors: Zhu Chunxia , Pang Shuyu , Chen Zhaoxia , Bi Lehua , Wang Shuangfei , Liang Chen , Qin Chengrong
Published: August 2022

At present, the synthesis methods of crystalline porous materials often involve powder products, which not only affects the practical application but also has complex synthesis operations and limited scale. Based on the mechanochemical method, we choose COF-TpPa-1, preparing TpPa-1-DANC composites. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are a kind of crystalline material formed by covalent bonds of light elements. COFs possess well pore structure and high thermal stability. However, the state of synthesized powders limits their application. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are promising renewable micron materials with abundant hydroxyl groups on their surface. It is possible to prepare high-strength materials such as film, water, and aerogel. Firstly, the nanocellulose was oxidized by the sodium periodate method to obtain aldehyde cellulose nanocrystals (DANC). TpPa-1-DANC not only had the crystal characteristic peak of COFs at 2θ ≈ 5° but also had a BET surface area of 247 m2/g. The chemical bonds between COFs and DANC formed by Schiff base reaction appeared in FTIR and XPS. The pyrolysis behavior of the composite was characterized by TG-IR, which showed that the composite had good thermal stability. With the advantages of nanocellulose as a material in every dimension, we believe that this method can be conducive to the large-scale synthesis of COFs composites, and has the possibility of multi-form synthesis of COFs.
How Do Life Insurers Respond to a Prolonged Low Interest Rate Environment? A Literature Review
Authors: Suwanmalai Wilaiporn , Zaby Simon
Published: August 2022

Life insurers, whose contractual liabilities include providing minimum guaranteed interest rates to policyholders, are significantly affected by persistently low interest rates. Hence, this study reviews the literature on the prolonged low interest rate environment and its impact on the life insurance industry, incorporating multiple perspectives and practices in different countries. The effect of low interest rates on life insurance products depends on the sensitivity of the interest rate of each product type and the level of minimum interest rate guarantee. In addition, their impacts on the valuation of life insurance companies depend on shifts in the valuation interest rate, which is used to discount the present value of future benefits, as well as the financial and solvency issues faced by insurers. Overall, the literature suggests that insurers need both short- and long-term solutions to respond to a prolonged low interest rate environment.
Inversion and Driving Force Analysis of Nutrient Concentrations in the Ecosystem of the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Bay Area
Authors: Li Hanyu , Zhang Guangzong , Zhu Yuyan , Kaufmann Hermann , Xu Guochang
Published: August 2022

Although satellite remote sensing technology is intensively used for the monitoring of water quality, the inversion of coastal water bodies and non-optically active parameters is still a challenging issue. Few ongoing studies use remote sensing technology to analyze the driving forces of changes in water quality from multiple aspects based on inversion results. By the use of Landsat 5/8 imagery and measured in situ data of the total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) in the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Bay area from 1986 to 2020, this study evaluated the modeling effects of four machine learning methods named Tree Embedding (TE), Support Vector Regression (SVR), Gaussian Process Regression (GPR), and Back-propagation Neural Network (BPNN). The results show that the BPNN creates the most reliable and robust results. The values of the obtained correlation coefficients (r) are 0.83, 0.92, 0.84, and 0.90, and that of the coefficients of determination (R2) are 0.70, 0.84, 0.70, and 0.81. The calculated mean absolute errors (MAEs) are 0.41, 0.16, 0.06, and 0.02, while the root mean square errors (RMSEs) are 0.78, 0.29, 0.12, and 0.03. The concentrations of TN and TP (CTN, CTP) in the Shenzhen Bay, the Starling Inlet, and the Tolo Harbor were relatively high, fluctuated from 1986 to 2010, and decreased significantly after 2010. The CTN and CTP in the Mirs Bay kept continuously at a low level. We found that urbanization and polluted river discharges were the main drivers of spatial and inter-annual differences of CTN and CTP. Temperature, precipitation, and wind are further factors that influenced the intra-annual changes of CTN and CTP in the Shenzhen Bay, whilethe expansion of oyster rafts and mangroves had little effect. Our research confirms that machine learning algorithms are well suited for the inversion of non-optical activity parameters of coastal water bodies, and also shows the potential of remote sensing for large-scale, long-term monitoring of water quality and the subsequent comprehensive analysis of the driving forces.
CD_HIEFNet: Cloud Detection Network Using Haze Optimized Transformation Index and Edge Feature for Optical Remote Sensing Imagery
Authors: Guo Qing , Tong Lianzi , Yao Xudong , Wu Yewei , Wan Guangtong
Published: August 2022

Clouds in optical remote sensing images are an unavoidable existence that greatly affect the utilization of these images. Therefore, accurate and effective cloud detection is an indispensable step in image preprocessing. To date, most researchers have tried to use deep-learning methods for cloud detection. However, these studies generally use computer vision technology to improve the performances of the models, without considering the unique spectral feature information in remote sensing images. Moreover, due to the complex and changeable shapes of clouds, accurate cloud-edge detection is also a difficult problem. In order to solve these problems, we propose a deep-learning cloud detection network that uses the haze-optimized transformation (HOT) index and the edge feature extraction module for optical remote sensing images (CD_HIEFNet). In our model, the HOT index feature image is used to add the unique spectral feature information from clouds into the network for accurate detection, and the edge feature extraction (EFE) module is employed to refine cloud edges. In addition, we use ConvNeXt as the backbone network, and we improved the decoder to enhance the details of the detection results. We validated CD_HIEFNet using the Landsat-8 (L8) Biome dataset and compared it with the Fmask, FCN8s, U-Net, SegNet, DeepLabv3+ and CloudNet methods. The experimental results showed that our model has excellent performance, even in complex cloud scenarios. Moreover, according to the extended experimental results for the other L8 dataset and the Gaofen-1 data, CD_HIEFNet has strong performance in terms of robustness and generalization, thus helping to provide new ideas for cloud detection-related work.
Intercomparison of Cloud Vertical Structures over Four Different Sites of the Eastern Slope of the Tibetan Plateau in Summer Using Ka-Band Millimeter-Wave Radar Measurements
Authors: Wan Xia , Zheng Jiafeng , Wan Rong , Xu Guirong , Qin Jianfeng , Yi Lan
Published: August 2022

The eastern slope of the Tibetan Plateau is a crucial corridor of water-vapor transport from the Tibetan Plateau to Eastern China. This is also a region with active cloud initiation, and the locally hatched cloud systems have a profound impact on the radiation budget and hydrological cycle over the downstream Sichuan Basin and the middle reach of the Yangtze River. It is noteworthy that there is a strong diversification in the characteristics and evolution of the ESTP cloud systems due to the complex terrain. Therefore, in this study, ground-based Ka-band millimeter-wave cloud radar measurements collected at the Ganzi (GZ), Litang (LT), Daocheng (DC), and Jiulong (JL) sites of the ESTP in 2019 were analyzed to compare the vertical structures of summer nonprecipitating clouds, including cloud occurrence frequency, radar reflectivity factor, cloud base height, cloud top height, and cloud thickness. The occurrence frequency exhibits two peaks on the ESTP with maximum values of ~20% (2–4 km) and 15% (7–9 km), respectively. The greatest (smallest) occurrence frequency occurs in the JL (GZ). The cloud occurrence frequency of all sites increases rapidly in the afternoon, and the occurrence frequency of the DC presents larger values at 2–4 km. In contrast, the occurrence frequency in the JL shows another increase from 2000 LT to midnight at 7–11 km. Stronger radar echoes occur most frequently in the LT at 5–7 km, and hydrometeor sizes and phase states vary dramatically in mixed-phase clouds. A small number of radar echoes occur at midnight in the JL. A characteristic bimodality of the cloud base height and top height for single-layer, double-layer, and triple-layer clouds was observed. Clouds show a higher base height in the GZ and higher top height in the JL. The ESTP is dominated by thin clouds with thicknesses of 200–400 m. The cloud base height, top height, and thickness exhibit an increase in the afternoon, and higher top height occurs more frequently from midnight to the next early morning in the JL because of its mountain-valley terrain.
Air Pollution and Human Health: Investigating the Moderating Effect of the Built Environment
Authors: Wang Chenglong , Sheng Yunliang , Wang Jiaming , Wang Yiyi , Wang Peng , Huang Lei
Published: August 2022

Air pollution seriously threatens human health and even causes mortality. It is necessary to explore effective prevention methods to mitigate the adverse effect of air pollution. Shaping a reasonable built environment has the potential to benefit human health. In this context, this study quantified the built environment, air pollution, and mortality at 1 km × 1 km grid cells. The moderating effect model was used to explore how built environment factors affect the impact of air pollution on cause-specific mortality and the heterogeneity in different areas classified by building density and height. Consequently, we found that greenness played an important role in mitigating the effect of ozone (O3) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) on mortality. Water area and diversity of land cover can reduce the effect of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and NO2 on mortality. Additionally, gas stations, edge density (ED), perimeter-area fractal dimension (PAFRAC), and patch density (PD) can reduce the effect of NO2 on mortality. There is heterogeneity in the moderating effect of the built environment for different cause-specific mortality and areas classified by building density and height. This study can provide support for urban planners to mitigate the adverse effect of air pollution from the perspective of the built environment.
Meticulous Land Cover Classification of High-Resolution Images Based on Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Neural Network with Gaussian Regression Model
Authors: Wang Chunyan , Wang Xiang , Wu Danfeng , Kuang Minchi , Li Zhengtong
Published: August 2022

This paper proposes a land cover classification method that combines a Gaussian regression model (GRM) with an interval type-2 fuzzy neural network (IT2FNN) model as a classification decision model. Problems such as the increase in the complexity of ground cover, the increase in the heterogeneity of homogeneous regions, and the increase in the difficulty of classification due to the increase in similarity in different regions are overcome. Firstly, the local spatial information between adjacent pixels was introduced into the Gaussian model in image gray space to construct the GRM. Then, the GRM was used as the base model to construct the interval binary fuzzy membership function model and characterize the uncertainty of the classification caused by meticulous land cover data. Thirdly, the upper and lower boundaries of the membership degree of the training samples in all categories and the principle membership degree as input were used to build the IT2FNN model. Finally, in the membership space, the neighborhood relationship was processed again to further overcome the classification difficulties caused by the increased complexity of spatial information to achieve a classification decision. The classical method and proposed method were used to conduct qualitative and quantitative experiments on synthetic and real images of coastal areas, suburban areas, urban areas, and agricultural areas. Compared with the method considering only one spatial neighborhood relationship and the classical classification method without a classification decision model, for images with relatively simple spatial information, the accuracy of the interval type-2 fuzzy neural network Gaussian regression model (IT2FNN_GRM) was improved by 1.3% and 8%, respectively. For images with complex spatial information, the accuracy of the proposed method increased by 5.0% and 16%, respectively. The experimental results prove that the IT2FNN_GRM method effectively suppressed the influence of regional noise in land cover classification, with a fast running speed, high generalization ability, and high classification accuracy.
MBES Seabed Sediment Classification Based on a Decision Fusion Method Using Deep Learning Model
Authors: Wan Jiaxin , Qin Zhiliang , Cui Xiaodong , Yang Fanlin , Yasir Muhammad , Ma Benjun , Liu Xueqin
Published: August 2022

High-precision habitat mapping can contribute to the identification and quantification of the human footprint on the seafloor. As a representative of seafloor habitats, seabed sediment classification is crucial for marine geological research, marine environment monitoring, marine engineering construction, and seabed biotic and abiotic resource assessment. Multibeam echo-sounding systems (MBES) have become the most popular tool in terms of acoustic equipment for seabed sediment classification. However, sonar images tend to consist of obvious noise and stripe interference. Furthermore, the low efficiency and high cost of seafloor field sampling leads to limited field samples. The factors above restrict high accuracy classification by a single classifier. To further investigate the classification techniques for seabed sediments, we developed a decision fusion algorithm based on voting strategies and fuzzy membership rules to integrate the merits of deep learning and shallow learning methods. First, in order to overcome the influence of obvious noise and the lack of training samples, we employed an effective deep learning framework, namely random patches network (RPNet), for classification. Then, to alleviate the over-smoothness and misclassifications of RPNet, the misclassified pixels with a lower fuzzy membership degree were rectified by other shallow learning classifiers, using the proposed decision fusion algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed method was tested in two areas of Europe. The results show that RPNet outperforms other traditional classification methods, and the decision fusion framework further improves the accuracy compared with the results of a single classifier. Our experiments predict a promising prospect for efficiently mapping seafloor habitats through deep learning and multi-classifier combinations, even with few field samples.
Influence of Sea Level Anomaly on Underwater Gravity Gradient Measurements
Authors: Xian Pengfei , Ji Bing , Bian Shaofeng , Liu Bei
Published: August 2022

Considering the theoretical research needs of gravity gradient detection and navigation, this study uses the right rectangular prism method to calculate the disturbing gravity gradient from sea level anomalies in the range of 5° × 5° in the Kuroshio extension area of the western Pacific with large sea level anomalies. The disturbing gravity gradient is obtained in different directions within a depth of 50 m below the mean sea level based on the principle of the disturbing gravity gradient. The calculation results show that the sea level anomalies at local positions significantly impact the underwater gravity gradient measurements, with the maximum contribution exceeding 10 E and the maximum difference between different locations exceeding 20 E. The change of the sea level anomaly over time also significantly impacts the measurement of the underwater gravity gradient, with the maximum change value exceeding 20 E. The impact will have a corresponding change with the seasonal change of the sea level anomaly. Therefore, the underwater carrier needs to consider the disturbing gravity gradient caused by sea level anomalies when using the gravity gradient for underwater detection and navigation.
An Infrared Laser Sensor for Monitoring Gas-Phase CO2 in the Headspace of Champagne Glasses under Wine Swirling Conditions
Authors: Lecasse Florian , Vallon Raphaël , Polak Frédéric , Cilindre Clara , Parvitte Bertrand , Liger-Belair Gérard , Zéninari Virginie
Published: August 2022

In wine tasting, tasters commonly swirl their glasses before inhaling the headspace above the wine. However, the consequences of wine swirling on the chemical gaseous headspace inhaled by tasters are barely known. In champagne or sparkling wine tasting, starting from the pouring step, gas-phase carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main gaseous species that progressively invades the glass headspace. We report the development of a homemade orbital shaker to replicate wine swirling and the upgrade of a diode laser sensor (DLS) dedicated to monitoring gas-phase CO2 in the headspace of champagne glasses under swirling conditions. We conduct a first overview of gas-phase CO2 monitoring in the headspace of a champagne glass, starting from the pouring step and continuing for the next 5 min, with several 5 s swirling steps to replicate the natural orbital movement of champagne tasters. The first results show a sudden drop in the CO2 concentration in the glass headspace, probably triggered by the liquid wave traveling along the glass wall following the action of swirling the glass.
Android Spyware Detection Using Machine Learning: A Novel Dataset
Authors: Qabalin Majdi K. , Naser Muawya , Alkasassbeh Mouhammd
Published: August 2022

Smartphones are an essential part of all aspects of our lives. Socially, politically, and commercially, there is almost complete reliance on smartphones as a communication tool, a source of information, and for entertainment. Rapid developments in the world of information and cyber security have necessitated close attention to the privacy and protection of smartphone data. Spyware detection systems have recently been developed as a promising and encouraging solution for smartphone users’ privacy protection. The Android operating system is the most widely used worldwide, making it a significant target for many parties interested in targeting smartphone users’ privacy. This paper introduces a novel dataset collected in a realistic environment, obtained through a novel data collection methodology based on a unified activity list. The data are divided into three main classes: the first class represents normal smartphone traffic; the second class represents traffic data for the spyware installation process; finally, the third class represents spyware operation traffic data. The random forest classification algorithm was adopted to validate this dataset and the proposed model. Two methodologies were adopted for data classification: binary-class and multi-class classification. Good results were achieved in terms of accuracy. The overall average accuracy was 79% for the binary-class classification, and 77% for the multi-class classification. In the multi-class approach, the detection accuracy for spyware systems (UMobix, TheWiSPY, MobileSPY, FlexiSPY, and mSPY) was 90%, 83.7%, 69.3%, 69.2%, and 73.4%, respectively; in binary-class classification, the detection accuracy for spyware systems (UMobix, TheWiSPY, MobileSPY, FlexiSPY, and mSPY) was 93.9%, 85.63%, 71%, 72.3%, and 75.96%; respectively.