bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of COVID-19 Lockdown on Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviors in Kuwait: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Salman Ahmad , Sigodo Kennedy Ouma , Al-Ghadban Fatima , Al-Lahou Badreya , Alnashmi Maha , Hermassi Souhail , Chun Sungsoo
Published: June 2021

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has brought about drastic measures that have significantly altered the norms of daily living. These measures have affected human behaviors in disparate ways. This study seeks to understand the impact of the pandemic on physical activity and dietary behavior among adults living in Kuwait. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between 18 June and 15 July 2020, using a questionnaire disseminated through social media, including WhatsApp and Facebook. The target population was individuals aged 21 years or older living in the State of Kuwait. The study included 679 respondents; 57.9% were females, and 67.7% were Kuwaiti nationals. Both genders reported an increased consumption of vegetables, fruits, and carbohydrates, and a decreased consumption of fish and sugary drinks. Compared to males, females reported eating more during the outbreak than their pre-pandemic eating behaviors (32.3% vs. 35.9%, p < 0.05). Approximately one-third of respondents (33.1%) reported performing less than 30 min of physical activity or exercise in a week, and 36.4% of respondents rated their quality of sleep as ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’. The rate of smoking cigarettes among males was significantly higher than in females (40.6% vs. 5.3%, p < 0.001). Physical activity was positively correlated with vegetable consumption and quality of sleep. Quality of sleep was negatively correlated with the consumption of sweets and snacks, just as the consumption of vegetables was negatively correlated with the consumption of sugary drinks. The overall negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Kuwait necessitates the development of health promotion interventions to support positive physical activity and dietary behaviors using alternative coping strategies among the residents of Kuwait.
Metabolic Syndrome: Is It Time to Add the Central Nervous System?
Authors: Rojas Milagros , Chávez-Castillo Mervin , Pirela Daniela , Parra Heliana , Nava Manuel , Chacín Maricarmen , Angarita Lissé , Añez Roberto , Salazar Juan , Ortiz Rina , Durán Agüero Samuel , Gravini-Donado Marbel , Bermúdez Valmore , Díaz-Camargo Edgar
Published: June 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a set of cardio-metabolic risk factors that includes central obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemias. The syndrome affects 25% of adults worldwide. The definition of MS has evolved over the last 80 years, with various classification systems and criteria, whose limitations and benefits are currently the subject of some controversy. Likewise, hypotheses regarding the etiology of MS add more confusion from clinical and epidemiological points of view. The leading suggestion for the pathophysiology of MS is insulin resistance (IR). IR can affect multiple tissues and organs, from the classic “triumvirate” (myocyte, adipocyte, and hepatocyte) to possible effects on organs considered more recently, such as the central nervous system (CNS). Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) may be clinical expressions of CNS involvement. However, the association between MCI and MS is not understood. The bidirectional relationship that seems to exist between these factors raises the questions of which phenomenon occurs first and whether MCI can be a precursor of MS. This review explores shared pathophysiological mechanisms between MCI and MS and establishes a hypothesis of a possible MCI role in the development of IR and the appearance of MS.
The Effectiveness of Interventions Delivered Using Digital Food Environments to Encourage Healthy Food Choices: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wyse Rebecca , Jackson Jacklyn Kay , Delaney Tessa , Grady Alice , Stacey Fiona , Wolfenden Luke , Barnes Courtney , McLaughlin Matthew , Yoong Sze Lin
Published: June 2021

Digital food environments are now commonplace across many food service and retail settings, influencing how the population orders and accesses foods. As such, digital food environments represent a novel platform to deliver strategies to improve public health nutrition. The purpose of this review was to explore the impact of dietary interventions embedded within online food ordering systems, on user selection and purchase of healthier foods and beverages. A systematic search of eight electronic databases and grey literature sources was conducted up to October 2020. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials and controlled trials, designed to encourage the selection and purchase of healthier products and/or discourage the selection and purchase of less-healthy products using strategies delivered via real-world online food ordering systems. A total of 9441 articles underwent title and abstract screening, 140 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, and 11 articles were included in the review. Meta-analysis of seven studies indicated that interventions delivered via online food ordering systems are effective in reducing the energy content of online food purchases (standardized mean difference (SMD): −0.34, p = 0.01). Meta-analyses including three studies each suggest that these interventions may also be effective in reducing the fat (SMD: −0.83, p = 0.04), saturated fat (SMD: −0.7, p = 0.008) and sodium content (SMD: −0.43, p = 0.01) of online food purchases. Given the ongoing growth in the use of online food ordering systems, future research to determine how we can best utilize these systems to support public health nutrition is warranted.
Dietary Macronutrient and Micronutrient Intake over a 7-Day Period in Female Varsity Ice Hockey Players
Authors: Vermeulen Tyler F. , Boyd Logan A. , Spriet Lawrence L.
Published: June 2021

This study examined the energy, macronutrient, and micronutrient intakes of female ice hockey players over a 7-d period including game, practice, and rest days. Twenty-three female varsity players (19.0 ± 1.1 yr, 167.1 ± 6.5 cm, 67.0 ± 8.0 kg) volunteered for the study. Average total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) was estimated over the 7-day period. Average 7-day energy intake (EI) and TDEE were 2354 ± 353 and 2304 ± 204 kcal. The majority (n = 19) of athletes had an EI ≥ 90% of their estimated TDEE. Macronutrient intake was 52% carbohydrate (CHO), 32% fat, and 16% protein of total EI, although CHO intake was slightly below recommendations (5 g/kg BM/d) on game and practice (4.8 ± 1.4 and 4.5 g/kg BM/d) days. Game day EI was greater than practice and rest days. Recommended micronutrient intakes were not met by most athletes for iron, calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, and intakes were similar between game, practice, and rest days. In summary, the average EI for female varsity ice hockey players appeared adequate to meet their energy needs over a weekly cycle of game, practice, and rest days. However, these female athletes would benefit from increasing CHO intake on game and practice days and selecting foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Plasma Sphingolipid Profile in Association with Incident Metabolic Syndrome in a Chinese Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Yun Huan , Qi Qi-Bin , Zong Geng , Wu Qing-Qing , Niu Zhen-Hua , Chen Shuang-Shuang , Li Huai-Xing , Sun Liang , Zeng Rong , Lin Xu
Published: June 2021

Although bioactive sphingolipids have been shown to regulate cardiometabolic homeostasis and inflammatory signaling pathways in rodents, population-based longitudinal studies of relationships between sphingolipids and onset of metabolic syndrome (MetS) are sparse. We aimed to determine associations of circulating sphingolipids with inflammatory markers, adipokines, and incidence of MetS. Among 1242 Chinese people aged 50–70 years who completed the 6-year resurvey, 76 baseline plasma sphingolipids were quantified by high-throughput liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. There were 431 incident MetS cases at 6-year revisit. After multivariable adjustment including lifestyle characteristics and BMI, 21 sphingolipids mainly from ceramide and hydroxysphingomyelin subclasses were significantly associated with incident MetS. Meanwhile, the baseline ceramide score was positively associated (RRQ4 versus Q1 = 1.31; 95% CI 1.05, 1.63; ptrend = 0.010) and the hydroxysphingomyelin score was inversely associated (RRQ4 versus Q1 = 0.60; 95% CI 0.45, 0.79; ptrend < 0.001) with incident MetS. When further controlling for clinical lipids, both associations were attenuated but remained significant. Comparing extreme quartiles, RRs (95% CIs) of MetS risk were 1.34 (95% CI 1.06, 1.70; ptrend = 0.010) for ceramide score and 0.71 (95% CI 0.51, 0.97; ptrend = 0.018) for hydroxysphingomyelin score, respectively. Furthermore, a stronger association between ceramide score and incidence of MetS was evidenced in those having higher inflammation levels (RRQ4 versus Q1 1.57; 95% CI 1.16, 2.12; pinteraction = 0.004). Our data suggested that elevated ceramide concentrations were associated with a higher MetS risk, whereas raised hydroxysphingomyelin levels were associated with a lower MetS risk beyond traditional clinical lipids.
A Critical Review of the Study of Neuroprotective Diets to Reduce Cognitive Decline
Authors: Duplantier Sally C. , Gardner Christopher D.
Published: June 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other dementias are now the seventh leading cause of death in the world and are projected to affect 115.4 million people by 2050. Delaying the onset of AD by just five years is estimated to reduce the cost and prevalence of the disease by half. There is no cure for AD nor any drug therapies to halt its progression once the disease begins. Lifestyle choices including diet are being seen as a viable complementary therapy to reduce cognitive decline, the hallmark of AD. Mediterranean, DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), and MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diets have biological mechanisms supporting their potential neuroprotective benefits, but the findings of study outcomes about these benefits have been inconsistent. This paper analyzed five Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) (from 2000 to 2021) and 27 observational studies (from 2010 to 2021) focused on the link between cognitive health and the Mediterranean/DASH/MIND diets to identify gaps and challenges that could lead to inconsistent results. These include a lack of accuracy in assessing food intake, multiple dietary pattern scoring systems, a shifting metric among studies focused on the Mediterranean diet, a lack of standards in the tools used to assess cognitive decline, and studies that were underpowered or had follow-up periods too short to detect cognitive change. Insights from these gaps and challenges are summarized in recommendations for future RCTs, including both pragmatic and explanatory RCTs.
Changes in HMO Concentrations throughout Lactation: Influencing Factors, Health Effects and Opportunities
Authors: Thum Caroline , Wall Clare Rosemary , Weiss Gisela Adrienne , Wang Wendan , Szeto Ignatius Man-Yau , Day Li
Published: June 2021

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are important functional biomolecules in human breast milk. Understanding the factors influencing differences in HMO composition and changes in their concentration over lactation can help to design feeding strategies that are well-adapted to infant’s needs. This review summarises the total and individual concentration of HMOs from data published from 1999 to 2019. Studies show that the HMO concentrations are highest in colostrum (average 9–22 g/L), followed by slightly lower concentrations in transitional milk (average 8–19 g/L), with a gradual decline in mature milk as lactation progresses, from 6–15 g/L in breast milk collected within one month of birth, to 4–6 g/L after 6 months. Significant differences in HMO composition have been described between countries. Different HMOs were shown to be predominant over the course of lactation, e.g., 3-fucosyllactose increased over lactation, whereas 2′-fucosyllactose decreased. Recent clinical studies on infant formula supplemented with 2′-fucosyllactose in combination with other oligosaccharides showed its limited beneficial effect on infant health.
A Comparison of Gene Expression Profiles of Rat Tissues after Mild and Short-Term Calorie Restrictions
Authors: Saito Kenji , Ito Maiko , Chiba Takuya , Jia Huijuan , Kato Hisanori
Published: June 2021

Many studies have shown the beneficial effects of calorie restriction (CR) on rodents’ aging; however, the molecular mechanism explaining these beneficial effects is still not fully understood. Previously, we conducted transcriptomic analysis on rat liver with short-term and mild-to-moderate CR to elucidate its early response to such diet. Here, we expanded transcriptome analysis to muscle, adipose tissue, intestine, and brain and compared the gene expression profiles of these multiple organs and of our previous dataset. Several altered gene expressions were found, some of which known to be related to CR. Notably, the commonly regulated genes by CR include nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase and heat shock protein 90, which are involved in declining the aging process and thus potential therapeutic targets for aging-related diseases. The data obtained here provide information on early response markers and key mediators of the CR-induced delay in aging as well as on age-associated pathological changes in mammals.
Eating Habits during the COVID-19 Lockdown in Italy: The Nutritional and Lifestyle Side Effects of the Pandemic
Authors: Grant Federica , Scalvedi Maria Luisa , Scognamiglio Umberto , Turrini Aida , Rossi Laura
Published: June 2021

To limit the spread of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, a nationwide lockdown started in Italy in March 2020. In this unpredictable situation, a cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire was carried out by the Observatory on Food Surplus, Recovery and Waste of CREA Food and Nutrition Centre. The aim of this work was to evaluate how Italian habits changed during this period, the determinants of changes, and the effect on food waste prevention. In a sample of 2678 respondents, 62% showed low Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (AMD). During lockdown many of participants improved the quality of their diet, increasing their consumption of fruit (24.4%), vegetables (28.5%), legumes (22.1%), nuts (12%), and fish or shellfish (14%). Unfavorable changes were observed with the excessive consumption of sweets or pastries (36.9%) and comfort foods (22.7%), and a lack of physical activity (37.2%). The main novelty of this study was the examination of dietary changes identified by a cluster analysis. Respondents with generally high AMD improved their eating habits, while the habits of the respondents with generally low AMD remained unchanged. In addition, nearly 80% of respondents were sensitive to food waste. The study provides a useful contribution to the debate on nutritional recommendations in case of further lockdown.
Rickettsia parkeri with a Genetically Disrupted Phage Integrase Gene Exhibits Attenuated Virulence and Induces Protective Immunity against Fatal Rickettsioses in Mice
Authors: Arroyave Esteban , Hyseni Ilirjana , Burkhardt Nicole , Kuo Yong-Fang , Wang Tian , Munderloh Ulrike , Fang Rong
Published: June 2021

Although rickettsiae can cause life-threatening infections in humans worldwide, no licensed vaccine is currently available. To evaluate the suitability of live-attenuated vaccine candidates against rickettsioses, we generated a Rickettsia parkeri mutant RPATATE_0245::pLoxHimar (named 3A2) by insertion of a modified pLoxHimar transposon into the gene encoding a phage integrase protein. For visualization and selection, R. parkeri 3A2 expressed mCherry fluorescence and resistance to spectinomycin. Compared to the parent wild type (WT) R. parkeri, the virulence of R. parkeri 3A2 was significantly attenuated as demonstrated by significantly smaller size of plaque, failure to grow in human macrophage-like cells, rapid elimination of Rickettsia and ameliorated histopathological changes in tissues in intravenously infected mice. A single dose intradermal (i.d.) immunization of R. parkeri 3A2 conferred complete protection against both fatal R. parkeri and R. conorii rickettsioses in mice, in association with a robust and durable rickettsiae-specific IgG antibody response. In summary, the disruption of RPATATE_0245 in R. parkeri resulted in a mutant with a significantly attenuated phenotype, potent immunogenicity and protective efficacy against two spotted fever group rickettsioses. Overall, this proof-of-concept study highlights the potential of R. parkeri mutants as a live-attenuated and multivalent vaccine platform in response to emergence of life-threatening spotted fever rickettsioses.
Toxoplasmosis Is More Frequent in Schizophrenia Patients Than in the General Population in Mexico and Is Not Associated with More Severe Course of Schizophrenia Measured with the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale
Authors: Galván-Ramírez María de la Luz , Navarro Machuca Gabriela , Covarrubias Castillo Sergio Armando , Benavides González Juan Carlos , Rodríguez Pérez Laura Roció , Dueñas Jiménez Sergio Horacio , Dueñas Jiménez Judith Marcela
Published: June 2021

Toxoplasmosis is a disease, which was discovered in 1908, caused by the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii. T. gondii infects neuronal, glial, and muscle cells, and chronic infections are characterized by the presence of cysts, in the brain and muscle cells, formed by bradyzoites. T. gondii is capable of synthesizing L-DOPA, a precursor of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is key in the etiology of neuropsychological disorders such as schizophrenia. Previous studies have shown high levels of IgG Toxoplasma antibodies in schizophrenia patients. Many published studies show that the prevalence of toxoplasmosis is higher in schizophrenia patients. In this study, we aimed to identify the prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in patients with schizophrenia and the relationships between, sociodemographic factors and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. A total of 27 schizophrenic patients were included and IgG anti-T. gondii was determined in serum samples by ELISA. The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, sociodemographic factors were associated with seropositivity. We found that the prevalence of Toxoplasma antibodies was 51.7%. In the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, statistical significant association (p = 0.024) was found in Item 13 which is related to motor retardation, however, the association turned non-significant after of correction for multiple tests or after of analyzed with a logistic regression p = 0.059, odds ratio (OR) = 2.316 with a 95% confidence interval [0.970 to 5.532]. Other association was not found between toxoplasmosis and others factors. The prevalence of toxoplasmosis on our population under study was significantly higher than that reported by general population or other group of Mexican schizophrenia patients.
Anti-Cancer Effects of an Optimised Combination of Ginsenoside Rg3 Epimers on Triple Negative Breast Cancer Models
Authors: Nakhjavani Maryam , Smith Eric , Palethorpe Helen M. , Tomita Yoko , Yeo Kenny , Price Tim J. , Townsend Amanda R. , Hardingham Jennifer E.
Published: June 2021

Key problems of chemotherapies, as the mainstay of treatment for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), are toxicity and development of tumour resistance. Using response surface methodology, we previously optimised the combination of epimers of ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3) for anti-angiogenic action. Here, we show that the optimised combination of 50 µM SRg3 and 25 µM RRg3 (C3), derived from an RSM model of migration of TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231, inhibited migration of MDA-MB-231 and HCC1143, in 2D and 3D migration assays (p < 0.0001). C3 inhibited mammosphere formation efficiency in both cell lines and decreased the CD44+ stem cell marker in the mammospheres. Molecular docking predicted that Rg3 epimers had a better binding score with IGF-1R than with EGFR, HER-2 or PDGFR, and predicted an mTOR inhibitory function of Rg3. C3 affected the signalling of AKT in MDA-MB-231 and HCC1143 mammospheres. In a mouse model of metastatic TNBC, an equivalent dose of C3 (23 mg/kg SRg3 + 11 mg/kg RRg3) or an escalated dose of 46 mg/kg SRg3 + 23 mg/kg RRg3 was administered to NSG mice bearing MDA-MB-231-Luc cells. Calliper and IVIS spectrum measurement of the primary and secondary tumour showed that the treatment shrunk the primary tumour and decreased the load of metastasis in mice. In conclusion, this combination of Rg3 epimers showed promising results as a potential treatment option for TNBC patients.
Gelation and Crystallization Phenomena in Polyethylene Plastomers Modified with Waxes
Authors: Gahleitner Markus , Wang Jingbo , Prades Floran , Bernreitner Klaus
Published: June 2021

Polyethylene (PE) plastomers, single-site catalyst-based homogeneous linear low-density PEs (LLDPEs), combine low crystallinity, softness, and elasticity, making them ideal candidates for numerous applications such as hot-melt adhesives (HMA). As plastomers crystallize rather slowly, a number of possible low molecular weight polyolefin components were tested to accelerate solidification. An ideal modifier should accelerate solidification while maintaining transparency and softness of the base polymer. A Queo plastomer type was modified with different PE and PP waxes at concentrations of 5 to 25 wt.-%. Next to conventional calorimetry, a rheological technique was applied to study solidification. The resulting morphology was studied by atomic force microscopy, and the final compositions were investigated regarding their mechanical and optical performance. Accelerated solidification was observed in all cases, but a quite different course of structure formation could be concluded. PE waxes dissolve in the melt state, forming a lamellar network during cooling, whereas PP waxes form a heterogeneous blend in the melt for which the wax droplets solidify before the matrix. The particulate-type modification by the PP wax also affects stiffness less while retaining transparency better.
The Oleofobization of Paper via Plasma Treatment
Authors: Resnik Matic , Levičnik Eva , Gosar Žiga , Zaplotnik Rok , Kovač Janez , Ekar Jernej , Mozetič Miran , Junkar Ita
Published: June 2021

Cellulose is a promising biomass material suitable for high volume applications. Its potential lies in sustainability, which is becoming one of the leading trends in industry. However, there are certain drawbacks of cellulose materials which limit their use, especially their high wettability and low barrier properties, which can be overcome by applying thin coatings. Plasma technologies present a high potential for deposition of thin environmentally friendly and recyclable coatings. In this paper, two different plasma reactors were used for coating two types of cellulose-based substrates with hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO). The changes in surface characteristics were measured by atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), surface free energy and contact angles measurements, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). Successful oleofobization was observed for an industrial scale reactor where pure HMDSO was used in the absence of oxygen.
New Star-Shaped Polyether-Pentols (PEPOs) for Fabrication of Crosslinked Polyurethanes—Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Jurek-Suliga Justyna , Grobelny Zbigniew , Golba Sylwia , Okła Hubert , Bednarczyk Katarzyna
Published: June 2021

Polyether-pentols (PEPOs) were synthesized from glycidyl ethers and butylene oxide with the application of tripotassium salts of 2,2,6,6-tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)cyclohexanol (HMCH) activated 18C6 for ring-opening polymerization (ROP). The construction of the applied initiator system reflects the ability of crown ether to influence the degree of ion-pair separation with an increased activating effect. As a result formation of bi- or trimodal polymers was observed with molar masses in the range of (Mn = 1200–6000). The observed multi-fraction composition is prescribed to the formation of ionic aggregates with different reactivities during polymerization. The mechanism of the studied processes is discussed. The obtained PEPOs served for a crosslinked PUR synthesis, for which the hydrogen bond index for coupling of hard segments was calculated. Additionally, the range of phase separation was calculated that was higher for PUR-containing aromatic rings as the substituent.
Mechanical Properties of Porcine and Fish Skin-Based Collagen and Conjugated Collagen Fibers
Authors: Ahn Hyunchul , Gong Da Jeong , Lee Hyun Ho , Seo Joo Yeon , Song Kyung-Mo , Eom Su Jin , Yeo Sang Young
Published: June 2021

Collagen is a protein that is a major component of animal skins and tendons. It is used in various medical, cosmetic, and food products through extraction and purification. The fibrous products of purified collagen fibers extracted from raw mammal materials have relatively excellent mechanical properties and are used for high-end medical products. In this study, we examined collagen materials produced from porcine and fish skins, which are major sources of collagen raw materials. We examined a method for spinning collagen fibers from fish skin-based collagen and analyzed the physical properties of those collagen fibers. In addition, we examined the characteristics and advantages of conjugated fibers according to their porcine- and/or fish skin-based compositions. The spinnability and mechanical properties of these conjugated fibers were analyzed according to their compositions. The mechanical properties of collagen structure are determined by hydroxyproline content and can be manipulated by the composition of collagen in the conjugated fibers.
Optimization of Sb2S3 Nanocrystal Concentrations in P3HT: PCBM Layers to Improve the Performance of Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Mkawi E. M. , Al-Hadeethi Y. , Bazuhair R. S. , Yousef A. S. , Shalaan E. , Arkook B. , Abdeldaiem A. M. , Almalki Rahma , Bekyarova E.
Published: June 2021

In this study, polymer solar cells were synthesized by adding Sb2S3 nanocrystals (NCs) to thin blended films with polymer poly(3-hexylthiophene)(P3HT) and [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric-acid-methyl-ester (PCBM) as the p-type material prepared via the spin-coating method. The purpose of this study is to investigate the dependence of polymer solar cells’ performance on the concentration of Sb2S3 nanocrystals. The effect of the Sb2S3 nanocrystal concentrations (0.01, 0.02, 0.03, and 0.04 mg/mL) in the polymer’s active layer was determined using different characterization techniques. X-ray diffraction (XRD) displayed doped ratio dependences of P3HT crystallite orientations of P3HT crystallites inside a block polymer film. Introducing Sb2S3 NCs increased the light harvesting and regulated the energy levels, improving the electronic parameters. Considerable photoluminescence quenching was observed due to additional excited electron pathways through the Sb2S3 NCs. A UV–visible absorption spectra measurement showed the relationship between the optoelectronic properties and improved surface morphology, and this enhancement was detected by a red shift in the absorption spectrum. The absorber layer’s doping concentration played a definitive role in improving the device’s performance. Using a 0.04 mg/mL doping concentration, a solar cell device with a glass /ITO/PEDOT:PSS/P3HT-PCBM: Sb2S3:NC/MoO3/Ag structure achieved a maximum power conversion efficiency of 2.72%. These Sb2S3 NCs obtained by solvothermal fabrication blended with a P3HT: PCBM polymer, would pave the way for a more effective design of organic photovoltaic devices.
Impact of Prolonged Exposure of Eleven Years to Hot Seawater on the Degradation of a Thermoset Composite
Authors: Idrisi Amir Hussain , Mourad Abdel-Hamid I. , Sherif Muhammad M.
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a long-term experimental investigation of E-glass/epoxy composites’ durability exposed to seawater at different temperatures. The thermoset composite samples were exposed to 23 °C, 45 °C and 65 °C seawater for a prolonged exposure time of 11 years. The mechanical performance as a function of exposure time was evaluated and a strength-based technique was used to assess the durability of the composites. The experimental results revealed that the tensile strength of E-glass/epoxy composite was reduced by 8.2%, 29.7%, and 54.4% after immersion in seawater for 11 years at 23 °C, 45 °C, and 65 °C, respectively. The prolonged immersion in seawater resulted in the plasticization and swelling in the composite. This accelerated the rate of debonding between the fibers and matrix. The failure analysis was conducted to investigate the failure mode of the samples. SEM micrographs illustrated a correlation between the fiber/matrix debonding, potholing, fiber pull-out, river line marks and matrix cracking with deterioration in the tensile characteristics of the thermoset composite.
Carbon Fibers from High-Density Polyethylene Using a Hybrid Cross-Linking Technique
Authors: Kang Seong-Hyun , Kim Kwan-Woo , Kim Byung-Joo
Published: June 2021

In this study, a method for manufacturing high-density polyethylene (HDPE)-based carbon fibers using a hybrid cross-linking method was studied. HDPE precursor fibers were first cross-linked with an electron beam (E-beam) at an irradiation dose of 1000–2500 kGy, and then cross-linked in sulfuric acid at 80–110 °C for 60 min. Hybrid crosslinked fibers were carbonized for 5 min at a temperature of 900 °C. As a result, the hybrid crosslinked fibers had a carbonization yield of 40%. In addition, the carbonized fibers after hybrid crosslinking exhibited perfect fiber morphology, and HDPE-based carbon fibers with (002) and (10l) peaks, which are the intrinsic XRD peaks of carbon fibers, were successfully prepared.
An Improved Bald Eagle Search Algorithm for Parameter Estimation of Different Photovoltaic Models
Authors: Ramadan Abdelhady , Kamel Salah , Hassan Mohamed H. , Khurshaid Tahir , Rahmann Claudia
Published: June 2021

Clean energy resources have become a worldwide concern, especially photovoltaic (PV) energy. Solar cell modeling is considered one of the most important issues in this field. In this article, an improvement for the search steps of the bald eagle search algorithm is proposed. The improved bald eagle search (IBES) was applied to estimate more accurate PV model parameters. The IBES algorithm was applied for conventional single, double, and triple PV models, in addition to modified single, double, and triple PV models. The IBES was evaluated by comparing its results with the original BES through 15 benchmark functions. For a more comprehensive analysis, two evaluation tasks were performed. In the first task, the IBES results were compared with the original BES for parameter estimation of original and modified tribe diode models. In the second task, the IBES results were compared with different recent algorithms for parameter estimation of original and modified single and double diode models. All tasks were performed using the real data for a commercial silicon solar cell (R.T.C. France). From the results, it can be concluded that the results of the modified models were more accurate than the conventional PV models, and the IBES behavior was better than the original BES and other compared algorithms.
Development of a Multihole Atmospheric Plasma Jet for Growth Rate Enhancement of Broccoli Seeds
Authors: Srakaew Khattiya , Chingsungnoen Artit , Sutthisa Waraporn , Lakhonchai Anthika , Poolcharuansin Phitsanu , Chunpeng Poramate , Rojviriya Catleya , Thumanu Kanjana , Tunmee Sarayut
Published: June 2021

This work aims to develop a multihole atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) device to increase the plasma area and apply it to a continuous seed treatment system. Broccoli seed was used to study the effects of an atmospheric pressure plasma jet on seed germination and growth rate. An argon flow rate of 4.2 lpm, a plasma power of 412 W, and discharge frequency of 76 kHz were used for seed treatment. The contact angle decreased strongly with the increase in treatment time from 20 s to 80 s. The broccoli seed’s outer surface morphology seemed to have been slightly modified to a smoother surface by the plasma treatment during the treatment time of 80 s. However, the cross-sectional images resulted from Synchrotron radiation X-ray tomographic microscopy (SRXTM) confirmed no significant difference between seeds untreated and treated by plasma for 80 s. This result indicates that plasma does not affect the bulk characteristics of the seed but does provide delicate changes to the top thin layer on the seed surface. After seven days of cultivation, the seed treated by plasma for 30 s achieved the highest germination and yield.
Effects of Different Diesel-Ethanol Dual Fuel Ratio on Performance and Emission Characteristics of Diesel Engine
Authors: Zhang Zhiqing , Li Jiangtao , Tian Jie , Xie Guangling , Tan Dongli , Qin Boying , Huang Yuanxing , Cui Shuwan
Published: June 2021

In this paper, a four-stroke engine diesel was employed to investigate the effects of different fuel mixture ratios of diesel and ethanol on engine performance and emission characteristics in terms of cylinder temperature, heat release rate, brake power, brake thermal efficiency, brake specific fuel consumption, and cylinder pressure. The corresponding simulation model of diesel engine was developed by AVL-Fire coupled CHEMKIN code, and an improved chemical kinetics mechanism containing 34 reactions and 19 species was employed to simulate the fuel spray process and combustion process. The simulation model was validated by experimental results under 100% and 50% load conditions and used to simulate the combustion process of diesel engine fueled with pure diesel and diesel–ethanol blends with 10%, 20%, and 30% ethanol by volume, respectively. The results showed that the increase of ethanol content in the blended fuel had a certain negative impact on the performance characteristic of diesel engine and significantly improved the emission characteristic of the engine. With the ethanol proportion in the blended fuel increased to 10%, 20%, and 30%, the brake thermal efficiency of the engine increased by 2.24%, 4.33%, and 6.37% respectively. However, the brake-specific fuel consumption increased by 1.56%, 3.49%, and 5.74% and the power decreased by 1.58%, 3.46%, and 5.54% respectively. In addition, with the ethanol proportion in the blended fuel increased to 10%, 20%, and 30%, the carbon monoxide emission decreased by 34.69%, 47.60%, and 56.58%, and the soot emission decreased by 7.83%, 15.24%, and 22.52% respectively. Finally, based on the combining fuzzy and grey correlation theory, nitrogen oxide emission has the highest correlation with engine power and brake-specific fuel consumption. The values reach 0.9103 and 0.8945 respectively. It shows that nitrogen oxide emission and cylinder pressure have a significant relationship on engine power and brake-specific fuel consumption.
Hizb ut-Tahrir’s Caliphal Counter-Narrative
Authors: Olsson Susanne
Published: June 2021

The article has a history of religions approach, and analyzes the “counter-narrative” of Hizb ut-Tahrir, which is a global political Islamist group which aims to establish a universal caliphate. It is a “vocal radical” radical group, rejecting the use of violence. The group is against democracy, secularization and liberal values, and promotes a return to “true Islam”, which obliges Muslims to establish a caliphate, ruled by divine will. The analysis of the ideology will contextualize it within Islamic theology and other current interpretative Islamic currents that dominate, with the aim of explaining why they are banned in several countries.
Assessing Freshwater Changes over Southern and Central Africa (2002–2017)
Authors: Kalu Ikechukwu , Ndehedehe Christopher E. , Okwuashi Onuwa , Eyoh Aniekan E.
Published: June 2021

In large freshwater river basins across the globe, the composite influences of large-scale climatic processes and human activities (e.g., deforestation) on hydrological processes have been studied. However, the knowledge of these processes in this era of the Anthropocene in the understudied hydrologically pristine South Central African (SCA) region is limited. This study employs satellite observations of evapotranspiration (ET), precipitation and freshwater between 2002 and 2017 to explore the hydrological patterns of this region, which play a crucial role in global climatology. Multivariate methods, including the rotated principal component analysis (rPCA) were used to assess the relationship of terrestrial water storage (TWS) in response to climatic units (precipitation and ET). The use of the rPCA technique in assessing changes in TWS is warranted to provide more information on hydrological changes that are usually obscured by other dominant naturally-driven fluxes. Results show a low trend in vegetation transpiration due to deforestation around the Congo basin. Overall, the Congo (r2 = 76%) and Orange (r2 = 72%) River basins maintained an above-average consistency between precipitation and TWS throughout the study region and period. Consistent loss in freshwater is observed in the Zambezi (−9.9 ± 2.6 mm/year) and Okavango (−9.1 ± 2.5 mm/year) basins from 2002 to 2008. The Limpopo River basin is observed to have a 6% below average reduction in rainfall rates which contributed to its consistent loss in freshwater (−4.6 ± 3.2 mm/year) from 2006 to 2012.Using multi-linear regression and correlation analysis we show that ET contributes to the variability and distribution of TWS in the region. The relationship of ET with TWS (r = 0.5) and rainfall (r = 0.8) over SCA provides insight into the role of ET in regulating fluxes and the mechanisms that drive precipitation in the region. The moderate ET–TWS relationship also shows the effect of climate and anthropogenic influence in their interactions.
A Novel Change Detection Approach Based on Spectral Unmixing from Stacked Multitemporal Remote Sensing Images with a Variability of Endmembers
Authors: Wu Ke , Chen Tao , Xu Ying , Song Dongwei , Li Haishan
Published: June 2021

Due to the high temporal repetition rates, median/low spatial resolution remote sensing images are the main data source of change detection (CD). It is worth noting that they contain a large number of mixed pixels, which makes adequately capturing the details in the resulting thematic map challenging. The spectral unmixing (SU) method is a potential solution to this problem, as it decomposes mixed pixels into a set of fractions of the land covers. However, there are accumulated errors in the fractional difference images, which lead to a poor change detection results. Meanwhile, the spectra variation of the endmember and the heterogeneity of the land cover materials cannot be fully considered in the traditional framework. In order to solve this problem, a novel change detection approach with image stacking and dividing based on spectral unmixing while considering the variability of endmembers (CD_SDSUVE) was proposed in this paper. Firstly, the remote sensing images at different times were stacked into a unified framework. After that, several patch images were produced by dividing the stacked images so that the similar endmembers according to each land cover can be completely extracted and compared. Finally, the multiple endmember spectral mixture analysis (MESMA) is performed, and the abundant images were combined to produce the entire change detection thematic map. This proposed algorithm was implemented and compared to four relevant state-of-the-art methods on three experimental data, whereby the results confirmed that it effectively improved the accuracy. In the simulated data, the overall accuracy (OA) and Kappa coefficient values were 99.61% and 0.99. In the two real data, the maximum of OA were acquired with 93.26% and 80.85%, which gained 14.88% and 13.42% over the worst results at most. Meanwhile, the Kappa coefficient value was consistent with the OA.
A Large Old Landslide in Sichuan Province, China: Surface Displacement Monitoring and Potential Instability Assessment
Authors: Ma Siyuan , Xu Chong , Shao Xiaoyi , Xu Xiwei , Liu Aichun
Published: June 2021

Using advanced Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) with small baseline subsets (SBAS) and Permanent Scatter Interferometry (PSI) techniques and C-band Sentinel-1A data, this research monitored the surface displacement of a large old landslide at Xuecheng town, Lixian County, Sichuan Province, China. Based on the MassMov2D model, the effect of the dynamic process and deposit thickness of the potentially unstable rock mass (deformation rate < −70 mm/year) on this landslide body were numerically simulated. Combined with terrain data and images generated by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), the driving factors of this old landslide were analyzed. The InSAR results show that the motion rate in the middle part of the landslide body is the largest, with a range of −55 to −80 mm/year on average, whereas those of the upper part and toe area were small, with a range of −5 to −20 mm/year. Our research suggests that there is a correlation between the LOS (line of sight) deformation rate and rainfall. In rainy seasons, particularly from May to July, the deformation rate is relatively high. In addition, the analysis suggests that SBAS can provide smoother displacement time series, even in areas with vegetation and the steepest sectors of the landslide. The simulation results show that the unstable rock mass may collapse and form a barrier dam with a maximum thickness of about 16 m at the Zagunao river in the future. This study demonstrates that combining temporal UAV measurements and InSAR techniques from Sentinel-1A SAR data allows early recognition and deformation monitoring of old landslide reactivation in complex mountainous areas. In addition, the information provided by InSAR can increase understanding of the deformation process of old landslides in this area, which would enhance urban safety and assist in disaster mitigation.
Analysis and Experimental Investigation of the Light Dimming Effect on Automotive Visible Light Communications Performances
Authors: Beguni Cătălin , Căilean Alin-Mihai , Avătămăniței Sebastian-Andrei , Dimian Mihai
Published: June 2021

The use of Visible Light Communications (VLC) in vehicular applications has become a major research area due to its simplicity, high performance to cost ratio, and great deployment potential. In this context, this article provides one of the very few analyses and experimental evaluations concerning the integration of a light dimming function in vehicular VLC systems. For this purpose, a vehicle-to-vehicle VLC prototype has been implemented and used to evaluate the systems’ communication performances in light dimming conditions, while decreasing the duty cycle from 40% to 1%, and increasing the communication range from 1 to 40–50 m. The experimental results showed that in normal lighting conditions, the VLC technology can easily support low duty cycle light dimming for ranges up to 40 m, while maintaining a 10−6 BER. Nevertheless, in strong optical noise conditions, when the system reaches its SNR limit, the communication range can decrease by half, whereas the BER can increase by 2–4 orders of magnitude. This article provides consistent evidence concerning the high potential of the VLC technology to support inter-vehicle communication links, even in light dimming conditions.
Research on Point Cloud Registering Method of Tunneling Roadway Based on 3D NDT-ICP Algorithm
Authors: Yang Jianjian , Wang Chao , Luo Wenjie , Zhang Yuchen , Chang Boshen , Wu Miao
Published: June 2021

In order to meet the needs of intelligent perception of the driving environment, a point cloud registering method based on 3D NDT-ICP algorithm is proposed to improve the modeling accuracy of tunneling roadway environments. Firstly, Voxel Grid filtering method is used to preprocess the point cloud of tunneling roadways to maintain the overall structure of the point cloud and reduce the number of point clouds. After that, the 3D NDT algorithm is used to solve the coordinate transformation of the point cloud in the tunneling roadway and the cell resolution of the algorithm is optimized according to the environmental features of the tunneling roadway. Finally, a kd-tree is introduced into the ICP algorithm for point pair search, and the Gauss–Newton method is used to optimize the solution of nonlinear objective function of the algorithm to complete accurate registering of tunneling roadway point clouds. The experimental results show that the 3D NDT algorithm can meet the resolution requirement when the cell resolution is set to 0.5 m under the condition of processing the point cloud with the environmental features of tunneling roadways. At this time, the registering time is the shortest. Compared with the NDT algorithm, ICP algorithm and traditional 3D NDT-ICP algorithm, the registering speed of the 3D NDT-ICP algorithm proposed in this paper is obviously improved and the registering error is smaller.
Design of a Kitchen-Monitoring and Decision-Making System to Support AAL Applications
Authors: Žarić Nikola , Radonjić Milutin , Pavlićević Nikola , Paunović Žarić Sanja
Published: June 2021

Numerous researchers are working on Ambient Assisted Living systems to enable more comfortable and safer living for senior people in their homes. Due to modern lifestyles and an aging population, this has become a very important issue. According to the available literature, it is obvious that the kitchen is one of the most important and most dangerous rooms in the home. However, there is still evident lack of monitoring systems suitable for specific kitchen activities. In this paper, we propose a monitoring system capable of identifying activities related to the cooking process, and a decision-making system capable of identifying some unwanted and possibly critical conditions. The proposed systems are designed to satisfy the requirements of the modern Ambient Assisted Living systems dedicated to older adults. The proposed monitoring system consists of ultrasound, temperature, and humidity sensors. The acquired results from these sensors are the inputs for the decision-making system, which generate warnings or alarms intended for the senior users and/or formal or informal caregivers. This system is designed to improve home safety related to kitchen activities, as well as to provide information about the lifestyle and daily activities of senior users. Experimental validation of the proposed system confirms its functionality and accurate design approach.
A Fishery Water Quality Monitoring and Prediction Evaluation System for Floating UAV Based on Time Series
Authors: Cheng Lei , Tan Xiyue , Yao Dong , Xu Wenxia , Wu Huaiyu , Chen Yang
Published: June 2021

In recent years, fishery has developed rapidly. For the vital interests of the majority of fishermen, this paper makes full use of Internet of Things and air–water amphibious UAV technology to provide an integrated system that can meet the requirements of fishery water quality monitoring and prediction evaluation. To monitor target water quality in real time, the water quality monitoring of the system is mainly completed by a six-rotor floating UAV that carries water quality sensors. The GPRS module is then used to realize remote data transmission. The prediction of water quality transmission data is mainly realized by the algorithm of time series comprehensive analysis. The evaluation rules are determined according to the water quality evaluation standards to evaluate the predicted water quality data. Finally, the feasibility of the system is proved through experiments. The results show that the system can effectively evaluate fishery water quality under different weather conditions. The prediction accuracy of the pH, dissolved oxygen content, and ammonia nitrogen content of fishery water quality can reach 99%, 98%, and 99% on sunny days, and reach 92%, 98%, and 91% on rainy days.