bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitigating Traumatic Brain Injury: A Narrative Review of Supplementation and Dietary Protocols
Authors: Conti Federica , McCue Jackson J. , DiTuro Paul , Galpin Andrew J. , Wood Thomas R.
Published: July 2024

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) constitute a significant public health issue and a major source of disability and death in the United States and worldwide. TBIs are strongly associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, resulting in a host of negative health outcomes and long-term complications and placing a heavy financial burden on healthcare systems. One promising avenue for the prevention and treatment of brain injuries is the design of TBI-specific supplementation and dietary protocols centred around nutraceuticals and biochemical compounds whose mechanisms of action have been shown to interfere with, and potentially alleviate, some of the neurophysiological processes triggered by TBI. For example, evidence suggests that creatine monohydrate and omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) help decrease inflammation, reduce neural damage and maintain adequate energy supply to the brain following injury. Similarly, melatonin supplementation may improve some of the sleep disturbances often experienced post-TBI. The scope of this narrative review is to summarise the available literature on the neuroprotective effects of selected nutrients in the context of TBI-related outcomes and provide an evidence-based overview of supplementation and dietary protocols that may be considered in individuals affected by—or at high risk for—concussion and more severe head traumas. Prophylactic and/or therapeutic compounds under investigation include creatine monohydrate, omega-3 fatty acids, BCAAs, riboflavin, choline, magnesium, berry anthocyanins, Boswellia serrata, enzogenol, N-Acetylcysteine and melatonin. Results from this analysis are also placed in the context of assessing and addressing important health-related and physiological parameters in the peri-impact period such as premorbid nutrient and metabolic health status, blood glucose regulation and thermoregulation following injury, caffeine consumption and sleep behaviours. As clinical evidence in this research field is rapidly emerging, a comprehensive approach including appropriate nutritional interventions has the potential to mitigate some of the physical, neurological, and emotional damage inflicted by TBIs, promote timely and effective recovery, and inform policymakers in the development of prevention strategies.
The Role of Adipose Tissue and Nutrition in the Regulation of Adiponectin
Authors: Baldelli Sara , Aiello Gilda , Mansilla Di Martino Eliana , Campaci Diego , Muthanna Fares M. S. , Lombardo Mauro
Published: July 2024

Adipose tissue (AT), composed mainly of adipocytes, plays a critical role in lipid control, metabolism, and energy storage. Once considered metabolically inert, AT is now recognized as a dynamic endocrine organ that regulates food intake, energy homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, thermoregulation, and immune responses. This review examines the multifaceted role of adiponectin, a predominant adipokine released by AT, in glucose and fatty acid metabolism. We explore the regulatory mechanisms of adiponectin, its physiological effects and its potential as a therapeutic target for metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and fatty liver disease. Furthermore, we analyze the impact of various dietary patterns, specific nutrients, and physical activities on adiponectin levels, highlighting strategies to improve metabolic health. Our comprehensive review provides insights into the critical functions of adiponectin and its importance in maintaining systemic metabolic homeostasis.
Newcastle Disease Virus Induces Profound Lymphoid Depletion with Different Patterns of Necroptosis, Necrosis, and Oxidative DNA Damage in Bursa, Spleen, and Other Lymphoid Tissues
Authors: Rabiei Mohammad , McAllister Milton M. , Gassman Natalie R. , Lee Kevin J. , Acton Sydney , Liebhart Dieter , Low Wai Yee , Hemmatzadeh Farhid
Published: July 2024

This study delves into the pathogenesis of virulent genotype VII strains of the Newcastle disease virus (NDV), focusing on experimentally infected birds. Predominant and consistent lesions observed include bursal atrophy and extensive depletion of all lymphoid tissues. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis, targeting apoptosis (Caspase-3), necroptosis (MLKL), and NDV markers, indicates that bursal atrophy is linked to a non-apoptotic programmed cell death pathway known as “necroptosis”. Repair assisted damage detection (RADD) of the bursa reveal oxidative DNA damage patterns consistent with programmed cell death, aligning with MLKL expression. Contrastingly, in the spleen, our findings suggest that necrosis (non-programmed cell death) predominantly contributes to lymphoid depletion. This conclusion is supported by evidence of karyorrhexis, fibrinous inflammation, RADD analyses, and IHC. Moreover, in addition to being pathogenic in its own right, NDV caused extensive and rapid lymphoid depletion that should be expected to contribute to profound immunosuppression. The elucidation of necroptosis in NDV-infected chickens provides a good rationale to investigate this mechanism in other paramyxoviral diseases such as human measles.
Deciphering the Longevity and Levels of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Children: A Year-Long Study Highlighting Clinical Phenotypes and Age-Related Variations
Authors: Pons-Tomàs Gemma , Pino Rosa , Soler-García Aleix , Launes Cristian , Martínez-de-Albeniz Irene , Ríos-Barnés María , Melé-Casas Maria , Hernández-García María , Monsonís Manuel , Gené Amadeu , de-Sevilla Mariona-F. , García-García Juan-José , Fortuny Claudia , Fumadó Victoria
Published: July 2024

Background: Identifying potential factors correlated with the sustained presence of antibodies in plasma may facilitate improved retrospective diagnoses and aid in the appraisal of pertinent vaccination strategies for various demographic groups. The main objective was to describe the persistence of anti-spike IgG one year after diagnosis in children and analyse its levels in relation to epidemiological and clinical variables. Methods: A prospective, longitudinal, observational study was conducted in a university reference hospital in the Metropolitan Region of Barcelona (Spain) (March 2020–May 2021). This study included patients under 18 years of age with SARS-CoV-2 infection (positive PCR or antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2). Clinical and serological follow-up one year after infection was performed. Results: We included 102 patients with a median age of 8.8 years. Anti-spike IgG was positive in 98/102 (96%) 12 months after the infection. There were higher anti-spike IgG levels were noted in patients younger than 2 years (p = 0.034) and those with pneumonia (p < 0.001). A positive and significant correlation was observed between C-reactive protein at diagnosis and anti-spike IgG titre one-year after diagnosis (p = 0.027). Conclusion: Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies were detected in almost all paediatric patients one year after infection. We also observed a positive correlation between virus-specific IgG antibody titres with SARS-CoV-2 clinical phenotype (pneumonia) and age (under 2 years old).
Innovative Approaches to Optimize Clinical Transporter Drug–Drug Interaction Studies
Authors: Paglialunga Sabina , Benrimoh Natacha , van Haarst Aernout
Published: July 2024

Of the 450 cell membrane transporters responsible for shuttling substrates, nutrients, hormones, neurotransmitters, antioxidants, and signaling molecules, approximately nine are associated with clinically relevant drug–drug interactions (DDIs) due to their role in drug and metabolite transport. Therefore, a clinical study evaluating potential transporter DDIs is recommended if an investigational product is intestinally absorbed, undergoes renal or hepatic elimination, or is suspected to either be a transporter substrate or perpetrator. However, many of the transporter substrates and inhibitors administered during a DDI study also affect cytochrome P450 (CYP) activity, which can complicate data interpretation. To overcome these challenges, the assessment of endogenous biomarkers can help elucidate the mechanism of complex DDIs when multiple transporters or CYPs may be involved. This perspective article will highlight how creative study designs are currently being utilized to address complex transporter DDIs and the role of physiology-based -pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models can play.
LSD-YOLO: Enhanced YOLOv8n Algorithm for Efficient Detection of Lemon Surface Diseases
Authors: Wang Shuyang , Li Qianjun , Yang Tao , Li Zhenghao , Bai Dan , Tang Chenwei , Pu Haibo
Published: July 2024

Lemon, as an important cash crop with rich nutritional value, holds significant cultivation importance and market demand worldwide. However, lemon diseases seriously impact the quality and yield of lemons, necessitating their early detection for effective control. This paper addresses this need by collecting a dataset of lemon diseases, consisting of 726 images captured under varying light levels, growth stages, shooting distances and disease conditions. Through cropping high-resolution images, the dataset is expanded to 2022 images, comprising 4441 healthy lemons and 718 diseased lemons, with approximately 1–6 targets per image. Then, we propose a novel model lemon surface disease YOLO (LSD-YOLO), which integrates Switchable Atrous Convolution (SAConv) and Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM), along with the design of C2f-SAC and the addition of a small-target detection layer to enhance the extraction of key features and the fusion of features at different scales. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed LSD-YOLO achieves an accuracy of 90.62% on the collected datasets, with mAP@50–95 reaching 80.84%. Compared with the original YOLOv8n model, both mAP@50 and mAP@50–95 metrics are enhanced. Therefore, the LSD-YOLO model proposed in this study provides a more accurate recognition of healthy and diseased lemons, contributing effectively to solving the lemon disease detection problem.
The Biotechnological Potential of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria Isolated from Maize (Zea mays L.) Cultivations in the San Martin Region, Peru
Authors: Ríos-Ruiz Winston Franz , Tarrillo-Chujutalli Rosslinn Esmith , Rojas-García Jose Carlos , Tuanama-Reátegui Cicerón , Pompa-Vásquez Danny Fran , Zumaeta-Arévalo Carlos Alberto
Published: July 2024

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an essential commodity for global food security and the agricultural economy, particularly in regions such as San Martin, Peru. This study investigated the plant growth-promoting characteristics of native rhizobacteria isolated from maize crops in the San Martin region of Peru with the aim of identifying microorganisms with biotechnological potential. Soil and root samples were collected from maize plants in four productive zones in the region: Lamas, El Dorado, Picota, and Bellavista. The potential of twelve bacterial isolates was evaluated through traits, such as biological nitrogen fixation, indole acetic acid (IAA) production, phosphate solubilization, and siderophore production, and a completely randomized design was used for these assays. A completely randomized block design was employed to assess the effects of bacterial strains and nitrogen doses on maize seedlings. The B3, B5, and NSM3 strains, as well as maize seeds of the yellow hard ‘Advanta 9139’ variety, were used in this experiment. Two of these isolates, B5 and NSM3, exhibited outstanding characteristics as plant growth promoters; these strains were capable of nitrogen fixation, IAA production (35.65 and 26.94 µg mL−1, respectively), phosphate solubilization (233.91 and 193.31 µg mL−1, respectively), and siderophore production (34.05 and 89.19%, respectively). Furthermore, molecular sequencing identified the NSM3 isolate as belonging to Sporosarcina sp. NSM3 OP861656, while the B5 isolate was identified as Peribacillus sp. B5 OP861655. These strains show promising potential for future use as biofertilizers, which could promote more sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Orchestrated Movement Sequences and Shape-Memory-like Effects in Pine Cones
Authors: Horstmann Martin , Speck Thomas , Poppinga Simon
Published: July 2024

Hygroscopic seed-scale movement is responsible for the weather-adaptive opening and closing of pine cones and for facilitating seed dispersal under favorable environmental conditions. Although this phenomenon has long been investigated, many involved processes are still not fully understood. To gain a deeper mechanical and structural understanding of the cone and its functional units, namely the individual seed scales, we have investigated their desiccation- and wetting-induced movement processes in a series of analyses and manipulative experiments. We found, for example, that the abaxial scale surface is responsible for the evaporation of water from the closed cone and subsequent cone opening. Furthermore, we tested the capability of dry and deformed scales to restore their original shape and biomechanical properties by wetting. These results shed new light on the orchestration of scale movement in cones and the involved forces and provide information about the functional robustness and resilience of cones, leading to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind hygroscopic pine cone opening, the respective ecological framework, and, possibly, to the development of smart biomimetic actuators.
Triaxiality and Plastic-Strain-Dependent Proposed PEAK Parameter for Predicting Crack Formation in Polypropylene Polymer Reservoir Subjected to Pressure Load
Authors: Kasprzak Adam
Published: July 2024

This article raises the topic of the critical examination of polypropylene, a key polymeric material, and its extensive application within the automotive industry, particularly focusing on the manufacturing of brake fluid reservoirs. This study aims to enhance the understanding of polypropylene’s behavior under mechanical stresses through a series of laboratory destruction tests and numerical simulations, emphasizing the finite element method (FEM). A novel aspect of this research is the introduction of the PEAK parameter, a groundbreaking approach designed to assess the material’s resilience against varying states of strain, known as triaxiality. This parameter facilitates the identification of critical areas prone to crack initiation, thereby enabling the optimization of component design with a minimized safety margin, which is crucial for cost-effective production. The methodology involves conducting burst tests to locate crack initiation sites, followed by FEM simulations to determine the PEAK threshold value for the Sabic 83MF10 polypropylene material. The study successfully validates the predictive capability of the PEAK parameter, demonstrating a high correlation between simulated results and actual laboratory tests. This validation underscores the potential of the PEAK parameter as a predictive tool for enhancing the reliability and safety of polypropylene automotive components. The research presented in this article contributes significantly to the field of material science and engineering by providing a deeper insight into the mechanical behavior of polypropylene and introducing an effective tool for predicting crack initiation in automotive components. The findings hold promise for advancing the design and manufacturing processes in the automotive industry, with potential applications extending to other sectors.
Targeted Polymeric Micelles System, Designed to Carry a Combined Cargo of L-Asparaginase and Doxorubicin, Shows Vast Improvement in Cytotoxic Efficacy
Authors: Zlotnikov Igor D. , Kudryashova Elena V.
Published: July 2024

L-asparaginases (ASP) and Doxorubicin (Dox) are both used in the treatment of leukemia, including in combination. We have attempted to investigate if their combination within the same targeted delivery vehicle can make such therapy more efficacious. We assembled a micellar system, where the inner hydrophobic core was loaded with Dox, while ASP would absorb at the surface due to electrostatic interactions. To make such absorption stronger, we conjugated the ASP with oligoamines, such as spermine, and the lipid components of the micelle—lipoic and oleic acids—with heparin. When loaded with Dox alone, the system yielded about a 10-fold improvement in cytotoxicity, as compared to free Dox. ASP alone showed about a 2.5-fold increase in cytotoxicity, so, assuming additivity of the effect, one could expect a 25-fold improvement when the two agents are applied in combination. But in reality, a combination of ASP + Dox loaded into the delivery system produced a synergy, with a whopping 50× improvement vs. free individual component. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown prolonged circulation of micellar formulations in the bloodstream as well as an increase in the effective concentration of Dox in micellar form and a reduction in Dox accumulation to the liver and heart (which reduces hepatotoxicity and cardiotoxicity). For the same reason, Dox’s liposomal formulation has been in use in the treatment of multiple types of cancer, almost replacing the free drug. We believe that an opportunity to deliver a combination of two types of drugs to the same target cell may represent a further step towards improvement in the risk–benefit ratio in cancer treatment.
Vorticity and Its Relationship to Vortex Separation, Dynamic Stall, and Performance, in an H-Darrieus Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine Using CFD Simulations
Authors: Escudero Romero Angelo , Blasetti Alberto Pedro , Acosta-López Jansen Gabriel , Gómez-García Miguel-Ángel , de Lasa Hugo
Published: July 2024

Vortices play a critical role in the operation of VAWTs (Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines). In spite of this, most studies have approached these matters via the qualitative analysis of vortex shedding, and torque-extraction data. These approaches rely only on the visual observation of vortices that can lead to subjective interpretations. In our work, a 3D framework is employed to address this issue. On this basis, the present study establishes a relationship between vorticity, dynamic stall and turbine performance, by examining various locations along the span and the chord of the airfoil. To conduct this analysis, a 3D-CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulation of an H-Darrieus with a symmetrical NACA 0018, powered by 8 m/s winds, is considered. The CFD simulations are validated based on the agreement of calculated power coefficients, with those obtained from experimental data, reported in the technical literature, with deviations being lower than 4%. The simulation results for various TSRs (Tip Speed Ratios) report new findings concerning the critical stages of VAWT operation. This shows that there is a link between the maximum vorticity, the imminent vortex-separation condition and the dynamic stall, with this being a function of the various axial positions in the VAWT.
Mathematical Modelling of Drying of Hydrogels via Finite Element Method and Texture Analysis
Authors: da Silva Marco Antônio Vasiliev , Feltre Gabriela , Dacanal Gustavo Cesar
Published: July 2024

Hydrogels are polymeric materials with specific mechanical handling and encapsulation properties. Despite their widespread application, the modelling of the drying behaviour of hydrogels, particularly the evolution of texture stiffness with moisture loss, requires further development. This work aimed to develop numerical models to predict the moisture and deformation of cornstarch–alginate hydrogels under convective drying at 60 °C and 0.5 m/s. Cylindrical solids were used, and a transient three-dimensional FEM model predicted drying profiles via diffusion–convection mass transport. Texture analysis evaluating the hyperelastic coefficients of the hydrogels was performed for moisture contents ranging from 0.91 to 0.55 kg∙kg−1 w.b., yielding Young’s modulus values from 24 to 147 kPa. A dimensionless relationship between the moisture ratio and elastic modulus produced a stiffness coefficient, used to adjust the moving boundary velocity and predict volumetric deformation. The model fitting returned an R2 higher than 0.95 and an RMSE lower than 0.04. The FEM model simulated hydrogel shrinkage by assessing the molar flux of water and mesh deformation at the boundaries, with mass diffusivity ranging from 2.38 to 5.46 × 10−10 m2∙s−1. Shrinkage reduced the surface area of solids during drying, revealing a pseudo-constant rate period in the drying profiles. The developed models effectively describe the drying of food materials with high shrinkage ratios.
Extraction and Characterization of Biological Phytoconstituents of Commiphora gileadensis Leaves Using Soxhlet Method
Authors: Mokaizh Aiman A. Bin , Nour Abdurahman Hamid , Alazaiza Motasem Y. D. , Mustafa Sara Elkheir , Omer Manal Suliman , Nassani Dia Eddin
Published: July 2024

Commiphora gileadensis is a medicinal plant with a wide range of biological characteristics. Many medical diseases can be treated using the leaves of C. gileadensis, including bacterial infections, inflammatory illnesses, and wounds. As a result, the Soxhlet extraction method was used to extract the phenolic components and measure the recovery yields from C. gileadensis leaf. The impacts of the Soxhlet extraction parameters (extraction time 30–150 min, sample/solvent ratio 1:20–1:40 g/mL, and concentration of ethanol solvent 20–100% v/v) on the total flavonoid content (TFC), total phenolic content (TPC), and extraction yield were investigated using the one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) technique. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analyses have been employed to evaluate the extracts for the presence of various phytochemicals. According to the results, the C. gileadensis leafs ethanolic extract extracted via the Soxhlet process achieved the maximum yields at 90 min of extraction time, a feed/solvent ratio of 1:30 g/mL, and a 40% v/v ethanol concentration. These yields were: extraction yield = 23.20 ± 0.10% w/w, TPC = 59.93 ± 1.33 mg GAE/g d.w., and TFC = 19.65 ± 1.77 mg QE/g d.w.. Further, a total of 20 phenolic components with excellent antioxidant characteristics were found in the leaf extract of C. gileadensis extracted via the Soxhlet method.
Environmental and Economic Forecast of the Widespread Use of Anaerobic Digestion Techniques
Authors: Kiselev Andrey , Magaril Elena , Giurea Ramona
Published: July 2024

The concept of the circular economy represents the most relevant mainstream approach to reducing the negative environmental impact of waste. Anaerobic digestion has proved to be one of the leading and widely adopted techniques for sewage sludge treatment under the principles of the circular economy. The purpose of this study is to forecast environmental and economic indicators through modeling the extensive utilization of biogas technologies with a case study of an administrative territorial unit. The proposed methodological framework involves the use of averaged specific indicators and is based on the relationship between inhabitants, waste generation rates, biogas yield, greenhouse gas emission mitigation and biogas energy potential. The widespread use of anaerobic digestion techniques according to the proposed methodology in the instant scenario will ensure the biogas yield of 10 million Nm3 within the considered administrative territory unit with a population of 4.2 million P.E., which ultimately can be expressed in electricity and thermal generation potential of 20.8 and 24.8 million kWh*y, respectively, annual greenhouse gas elimination of 119.6 thousand tons of CO2 equivalent and capital investment attraction of EUR 65.18 million. Furthermore, all sewage sludge will be subjected to disinfection and stabilization procedures to ensure its safe utilization. The findings of this study offer an opportunity for a wide range of stakeholders to assess the environmental and economic benefits of the widespread adoption of biogas technologies. The developed methodology can be utilized to inform management decisions through the use of the instant and scenario forecasts.
The Pilgrim’s Progress or Regress? The Case of Transhumanism and Deification
Authors: Kornu Kimbell
Published: July 2024

Transhumanism presents a view of human progress by transcending the human, regarding finitude and suffering to be fundamental problems that must be overcome by radical bioenhancement technologies. Recent theologians have compared Christianity and transhumanism as competing deifications via grace and technology, respectively. Ron Cole-Turner is a cautious yet optimistic interpreter of the relationship between Christian deification and transhumanism, regarding them, on the one hand, to be incompatible based on self-centeredness vs. kenosis, while on the other hand, they can be compatible through a robust theology of creation and transfiguration such that creative human efforts via technology will be an active agent in transforming the world in glory. In this way, Christian transhumanism offers a vision of human progress in deification that transfigures creation through technology. In this paper, I challenge this proposal. I wish to show how transhumanism in any stripe, whether secular, Christian, or other, is fundamentally incompatible with Christian deification for two reasons: (1) incompatible views of progress and (2) incompatible views of human agency in deification. I will address each in turn. I then propose that human progress is infinite growth in the love of Christ. Finally, I suggest how a view of human agency affects how we think about suffering as a means to human progress.
How Useful Is the Christian Theology of Religions? Critical Questions from a Religious Studies and Intercultural Theology Perspective
Authors: Wrogemann Henning
Published: July 2024

This contribution to the literature regarding the Christian theology of religions presents a critical view from the outside, a meta-reflection primarily from a religious studies perspective considering the conditions and contexts of academic theology on the one hand, and lived interreligious relationships on the other, which are all-too-easily ignored in works of the theology of religions. First, some newer approaches to the theology of religions will be mentioned before critical questions will be addressed from a religious studies perspective. These are observations in discourse theory, the sociology of religion, religious economics and spatial theory. This is followed by observations from the perspective of intercultural theology, which examine approaches to the theology of religions with regard to phenomena within the Pentecostal movement, discursive constellations in Muslim majority societies and cultural–religious aspects within Indian society. Finally, the “theology of interreligious relations” will be proposed as a corrective to the shortcomings of the ordinary theology of religions.
Spatial Distribution of Cropping Systems in South Asia Using Time-Series Satellite Data Enriched with Ground Data
Authors: Gumma Murali Krishna , Panjala Pranay , Dubey Sunil K. , Ray Deepak K. , Murthy C. S. , Kadiyala Dakshina Murthy , Mohammed Ismail , Takashi Yamano
Published: July 2024

A cropping system practice is the sequential cultivation of crops in different crop seasons of a year. Cropping system practices determine the land productivity and sustainability of agriculture in regions and, therefore, information on cropping systems of different regions in the form of maps and statistics form critical inputs in crop planning for optimal use of resources. Although satellite-based crop mapping is widely practiced, deriving cropping systems maps using satellites is less reported. Here, we developed moderate-resolution maps of the major cropping systems of South Asia for the year 2014–2015 using multi-temporal satellite data together with a spectral matching technique (SMT) developed with an extensive set of field observation data supplemented with expert-identified crops in high-resolution satellite images. We identified and mapped 27 major cropping systems of South Asia at 250 m spatial resolution. The rice-wheat cropping system is the dominant system, followed by millet-wheat and soybean-wheat. The map showing the cropping system practices of regions opens up many use cases related to the agriculture performance of the regions. Comparison of such maps of different time periods offers insights on sensitive regions and analysis of such maps in conjunction with resources maps such as climate, soil, etc., enables optimization of resources vis-à-vis enhancing land productivity. Thus, the current study offers new opportunities to revisit the cropping system practices and redesign the same to meet the challenges of food security and climate resilient agriculture.
Study of the Long-Lasting Daytime Field-Aligned Irregularities in the Low-Latitude F-Region on 13 June 2022
Authors: Hu Pengfei , Chen Gang , Yan Chunxiao , Zhang Shaodong , Yang Guotao , Zhang Qiang , Gong Wanlin , He Zhiqiu
Published: July 2024

The unusual daytime F-region Field-Aligned Irregularities (FAIs) were observed by the HCOPAR and the satellites at low latitudes on 13 June 2022. These irregularities survived from night-time to the following afternoon at 15:00 LT. During daytime, they appeared as fossil structures with low Doppler velocities and narrow spectral widths. These characteristics indicated that they drifted along the magnetic field lines without apparent zonal velocity to low latitudes. Combining the observations of the ICON satellite and the Hainan Digisonde, we derived the movement trails of these daytime irregularities. We attributed their generation to the rapid ascent of the F-layer due to the fluctuation of IMF Bz during the quiet geomagnetic conditions. Subsequently, the influence of the substorm on the low-latitude ionosphere was investigated and simulated. The substorm caused the intense Joule heating that enhanced the southward neutral winds, carrying the neutral compositional disturbances to low latitudes and resulting in a negative storm effect in Southeast Asia. The negative storm formed a low-density circumstance and slowed the dissipation of the daytime FAIs. These results may provide new insights into the generation of post-midnight irregularities and their relationship with daytime fossil structures.
BPG-Based Lossy Compression of Three-Channel Remote Sensing Images with Visual Quality Control
Authors: Li Fangfang , Ieremeiev Oleg , Lukin Vladimir , Egiazarian Karen
Published: July 2024

A tendency to increase the number of acquired remote sensing images and to make their average size larger has been observed. To manage such data, compression is needed, and lossy compression is often preferable. Since lossy compression introduces distortions, this results in worse classification and object detection. Therefore, lossy compression must be controlled, i.e., the introduced distortions must be under a certain limit. The distortions and the limit can be characterized by different metrics (quantitative criteria). Here, we consider the case of using the HaarPSI metric, which has a very high correlation with visual quality and human attention (saliency map), for three-channel optical band images compressed by the better portable graphics (BPG) encoder, one of the best modern compression techniques. We analyze a two-step procedure of providing a desired visual quality and show its peculiarities for the modes 4:4:4, 4:2:2, and 4:2:0 of image compression. We show how the HaarPSI metric relates to other known metrics of image visual quality and thresholds of distortion visibility. It is demonstrated that the two-step procedure provides about three times better accuracy in providing the desired visual quality compared to the fixed setting of parameter Q that controls compression for the BPG encoder. The provided accuracy is close to the reachable limit determined by the integer value setting of the Q parameter. We also briefly analyze the influence of compression on the classification accuracy of real-life remote sensing data.
A Hybrid Metadetector for Measuring Bell States of Optical Angular Momentum Entanglement
Authors: Ming Yang
Published: July 2024

High-dimensional entanglement of optical angular momentum has shown its enormous potential for increasing robustness and data capacity in quantum communication and information multiplexing, thus offering promising perspectives for quantum information science. To make better use of optical angular momentum entangled states, it is necessary to develop a reliable platform for measuring and analyzing them. Here, we propose a hybrid metadetector of monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) integrated with spin Hall nanoantenna arrays for identifying Bell states of optical angular momentum. The corresponding states are converted into path-entangled states of propagative polaritonic modes for detection. Several Bell states in different forms are shown to be identified effectively. TMDs have emerged as an attractive platform for the next generation of on-chip optoelectronic devices. Our work may open up a new horizon for devising integrated quantum circuits based on these two-dimensional van der Waals materials.
Image/Video Coding and Processing Techniques for Intelligent Sensor Nodes
Authors: Zhou Jinjia , Taniguchi Ittetsu , Jin Xin
Published: July 2024

There is an increasing interest in developing intelligent sensor nodes which enable intelligent processing for Internet of Things (IoT) surveillance, remote sensing, and smart city applications [...]
Antenna Integration for Millimeter-Wave RF Sensing and Millimeter-Wave Communication Mountable on a Platform
Authors: Koh Jaewon , Park Hongsik , Kim Woogon , Seo Seongbu , Seo Yejune , Kahng Sungtek
Published: July 2024

An array antenna for millimeter-wave communication and an array antenna for millimeter-wave sensing are designed and put together into one structure. Because millimeter-wave signals become weaker fast with the increasing distance and any kind of error in the required functions of the antenna has to be minimized, pointing error from the target direction should be prevented. The device is a millimeter-wave sensing antenna with high directivity to check the straight link between the TX and RX sides of wireless communication. A 24 GHz 8-by-16 array antenna which generates stronger signals for sensing resolves the drawback of a 28 GHz 1-by-4 array antenna that is commonly seen in 5G wireless terminals. The sensing and communication antennas are integrated as a planar structure mountable on platforms, which is investigated with regard to forming wireless links over a distance of several meters with an input power of less than 0 dBm. Additionally, in the event of a reflecting surface disturbing the straight path and worsening the pointing error in RF signal transfer, the dual-capability of the combination is presented on the basis of intuitive electromagnetic experiments.
Retrospect on the Ground Deformation Process and Potential Triggering Mechanism of the Traditional Steel Production Base in Laiwu with ALOS PALSAR and Sentinel-1 SAR Sensors
Authors: Ding Chao , Feng Guangcai , Zhang Lu , Wang Wenxin
Published: July 2024

The realization of a harmonious relationship between the natural environment and economic development has always been the unremitting pursuit of traditional mineral resource-based cities. With rich reserves of iron and coal ore resources, Laiwu has become an important steel production base in Shandong Province in China, after several decades of industrial development. However, some serious environmental problems have occurred with the quick development of local steel industries, with ground subsidence and consequent secondary disasters as the most representative ones. To better evaluate possible ground collapse risk, comprehensive approaches incorporating the common deformation monitoring with small-baseline subset (SBAS)-synthetic aperture radar interferometry (InSAR) technique, environmental factors analysis, and risk evaluation are designed here with ALOS PALSAR and Sentinel-1 SAR observations. A retrospect on the ground deformation process indicates that ground deformation has largely decreased by around 51.57% in area but increased on average by around −5.4 mm/year in magnitude over the observation period of Sentinel-1 (30 July 2015 to 22 August 2022), compared to that of ALOS PALSAR (17 January 2007 to 28 October 2010). To better reveal the potential triggering mechanism, environmental factors are also utilized and conjointly analyzed with the ground deformation time series. These analysis results indicate that the ground deformation signals are highly correlated with human industrial activities, such underground mining, and the operation of manual infrastructures (landfill, tailing pond, and so on). In addition, the evaluation demonstrates that the area with potential collapse risk (levels of medium, high, and extremely high) occupies around 8.19 km2, approximately 0.86% of the whole study region. This study sheds a bright light on the safety guarantee for the industrial operation and the ecologically friendly urban development of traditional steel production industrial cities in China.
Achieving Simultaneous Nitrification and Denitrification by a Membrane Aerated Biofilm Reactor at Moderate Lumen Pressure
Authors: Zhong Huiyun , Tang Yuanyuan , Wang Mengyu , Dong Liangfei
Published: July 2024

Lumen pressure is of crucial importance to achieve simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND) in the membrane aerated biofilm reactor (MABR); so, in this study, a laboratory-scale MABR was operated under different lumen pressures (7 kPa, 10 kPa, 13 kPa, and 16 kPa) successively to verify its impact on nitrogen removal. The results showed that NH4+-N oxidation was deficient under 7 kPa due to inadequate oxygen supply, while denitrification was depressed under 16 kPa. Total nitrogen removal efficiency was similar under 10 kPa and 13 kPa (around 78.9%), much higher than that under 7 kPa and 16 kPa (approximately 50%). The biomass density (22.35 g/m2) and biofilm thickness (500.3 µm) were the highest under 13 kPa, and EPS was increasingly secreted along with the increase in lumen pressure. The relative abundance of Nitrospirae was highest under 16 kPa (3.53%), indicating a higher lumen pressure could promote nitrifiers. The denitrifying-related microbes, such as β-proteobacteria, α-proteobacteria and ε-proteobacteria, showed an increasing and then decreasing pattern along with lumen pressure increase, and were enriched at 10 kPa. The results could draw the conclusion that SND could be achieved at moderate lumen pressure, i.e., 10 kPa and 13 kPa in this study.
LC-MS/MS-QTOF Identification of Phenolic Compounds of Sideritis Species Cultivated in Greece
Authors: Kaparakou Eleftheria H. , Kanakis Charalabos D. , Kokotou Maroula G. , Papadopoulos Georgios , Tarantilis Petros A.
Published: July 2024

Phenolic compounds are plant secondary metabolites, one of the most common and widespread groups of substances in plants, as well as a major group of phytochemicals present in medicinal and aromatic plants. The phytochemical composition of the hydroalcoholic extracts from S. raeseri, S. scardica and S. syriaca was determined by LC-MS/MS-QTOF analysis. A total amount of 23 secondary metabolites were identified, including 17 flavonoids (Fs), 4 phenylethanoid glycosides (PEGs), 1 phenolic acid (PA) and 1 fatty acid (FA). Among the three species, the constituents that have been detected in all of nine samples were: verbascocide/isoverbascoside (PEG), apigenin 7-O- glucoside (F), isoscutellarein 7-O-[6″-O-acetyl]-allosyl(1→2)-glucoside (F) and apigenin 7-(4″-p-coumaroylglucoside) (F). This study contributes to the phytochemical characterization of the Sideritis spp. by providing a comparative study of bioactive compounds present in three different Sideritis species, S. raeseri, S. scardica and S. syriaca, which are widely used as a herbal medicine in Mediterranean region and Balkan Peninsula.
An Empirical Study on the Upcycling of Glass Bottles into Hydrocyclone Separators
Authors: Senfter Thomas , Neuner Thomas , Bachmann Christian , Berger Manuel , Mayerl Christian , Kofler Tobias , Kraxner Michael , Pillei Martin
Published: July 2024

Cyclones are pivotal in mechanical process engineering and crucial in the complex field of separation technology. Their robustness and compact spatial requirements render them universally applicable and versatile across various industrial domains. Depending on the utilized fluid and field of application, both gas-based cyclones and hydrocyclones (HCs) are well established. Regarding HC design, enduring elongated flat cones have seen minimal alterations in shape and structure since their introduction over more than a hundred years ago. Experimental investigations regarding unconventional cone designs within scientific studies remain the exception. Therefore, this study focuses on alternative geometric configurations of the separation chambers and highlights their impact on separation and energy efficiency. To achieve this objective, different geometric shapes are investigated and retrofitted into HCs. The geometric foundation is derived from upcycled glass bottles. The repurposed bottles with a volume of 750 mL are used in conjunction with an inlet part, following the established Rietema design. Experimental tests are conducted with dilute phase separation, using 0.1–200 µm test particles in water. Comparisons between a bottle-based HC and a conventional Rietema design were conducted, establishing a benchmark against the standard. The findings revealed a noticeable correlation between separation efficiency and cone geometry. Conical designs demonstrated enhanced separation, particularly at lower volume flows. At the highest volume flow of 75 L min−1, the best performing bottle cyclones showed separation efficiencies of 78.5%, 78.4% and 77.9% and therefore are in a competitive range with 78.0% efficiency, achieved using the commercial Rietema design. Minimal disparities in cut sizes were observed in terms of separation grade efficiency among the models tested. Variations in separation efficiency and fractional efficiency curves indicated nuanced differences in classification efficiency.
The Socioeconomic Factors of Female Child Trafficking and Prostitution: An Empirical Study in the Capital City of Bangladesh
Authors: Farhana Khandaker Mursheda , Abdul Mannan Kazi
Published: July 2024

Although Bangladesh is a constitutionally Islamic country, some brothels are regulated by state law. But these brothels are located in the suburbs, and there were legal brothels around the capital, which no longer exist. Thus, prostitution is observed in a variety of ways, including in residential hotels, resorts, homes, and open spaces. As prostitution and trafficking are inseparable, this paper adopts a quantitative approach to measure the socioeconomic variables associated with prostitution and trafficking in children in the capital city of Dhaka, Bangladesh. The data for this study were collected from 385 respondents, and the questionnaire format was open-ended. The proposed conceptual model is presented in a way that includes sociocultural and economic factors influencing prostitution. To examine the model, a three-level research design was applied. The sociodemographic data of the respondents were collected and analyzed in this study. This study finds that the significant economic factors are poverty and lack of employment opportunities. Moreover, sociocultural variables are closely associated with rape, harassment, divorce, insufficient support from household members, living in vulnerable conditions, social instability, lifestyle, and gender violence. These findings emphasize the need to implement existing anti-trafficking laws and raise awareness of children in Bangladesh to stop child trafficking for sex work.
Perceptions and Experiences of Adult Children of Parents and Carers with Alcohol-Related Problems in Botswana: The Coexistence of Resilience and Resemblance
Authors: Jeremiah Refilwe Precious , Shehu Odireleng Mildred , Sam David Lackland , Katisi Masego
Published: July 2024

This study explores the resilience and resemblance among children of parents with alcohol-related problems in Botswana. Alcohol misuse affects both users and their families, particularly children. Although children raised in an alcoholic environment often face long-term adversities, some become resilient adults while others present behaviours resembling those of their parents. This study used socio-ecological resilience theory to explore the perceptions and experiences of adult children of parents and carers with alcohol-related problems, as well as the pathways they use to navigate risks. We collected data from seven adult children in a village in Botswana using in-depth, unstructured interviews. The study revealed two global themes: familial practices and protective factors. The vulnerability, resemblance, and resilience experienced by adult children of parents with alcohol-related problems are discussed. This study helps us to understand the adult children of parents and carers with alcohol-related problems in a rural cultural context. Their lived experiences demonstrate that resilience and resemblance coexist and are not mutually exclusive.
Geological Study Based on Multispectral and Hyperspectral Remote Sensing: A Case Study of the Mahuaping Beryllium–Tungsten Deposit Area in Shangri-La
Authors: Hu Yunfei , Zhao Zhifang , Zhang Xinle , Feng Lunxin , Qin Yang , Ouyang Liu , Huang Ziqi
Published: July 2024

This study applied Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) multispectral data and ZY1-02D hyperspectral data to map the structural distribution and hydrothermal alteration in the polymetallic ore district in southern Shangri-La City, Yunnan Province, China. The study area hosts several polymetallic deposits, including the Mahuaping tungsten–beryllium deposit, which has significant mineral exploration potential. The deposit type is mainly magmatic–hydrothermal, with average grades of 0.41% WO3 and 0.22% BeO, and substantial reserves, prominently controlled by faults. Based on this, this study employed ASTER data for the visual interpretation of structures through false-color composites combined with DEM data. Additionally, ASTER and ZY1-02D data were processed using the principal component analysis and spectral angle mapper methods to extract anomalies related to tungsten mineralization such as carbonate alteration, sericitization, chloritization, and hematization of the hydrothermal origin. The results indicated that the structural trends in the study area predominantly align in north–south and northeast directions, with alteration anomalies concentrated in the central and fold areas. Our analysis of typical deposits revealed their close association with north–south faults and east–west joints, as well as the enrichment level of alteration anomalies, identifying five high-potential target areas for mineral exploration. Further evaluation involved field validation through the spectral scanning of samples, field verification, and a comparison with known lithology. These assessments confirmed that the spectral curves matched those in the USGS database, the structural interpretations aligned with the field observations (84% accuracy from 25 sampling points, with 21 matching extracted alteration types), and the alteration results corresponded well with the lithological units, indicating high accuracy in alteration extraction. Finally, a comparative discussion highlighted that the results derived from ZY1-02D data were more applicable to the local area. The outcomes of this study can support subsequent mineral exploration efforts, enhancing the sustainability of important mineral resources.