bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical Approach to Hypersensitivity to Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in Children
Authors: Podlecka Daniela , Socha-Banasiak Anna , Jerzynska Joanna , Nodzykowska Joanna , Brzozowska Agnieszka
Published: September 2023

Background: We aimed to assess the real-life prevalence, patient profile, and clinical presentation of drug hypersensitivity to NSAIDs in children after an incidence of an adverse event during treatment, verified by a drug challenge test. Methods: We included 56 children, aged 4–18 years, referred to our allergy clinic due to the incidence of adverse reaction during treatment. Skin prick tests and a drug provocation test were performed in all patients. Diagnostics for persistent urticaria were performed. Results: In 56 patients suspected of drug allergy, we proved NSAID hypersensitivity in 17 patients (30.1%). In 84.9% (n = 47) of patients, the clinical manifestations of hypersensitivity revealed angioedema and urticaria. The most common culprit drug among NSAIDs in children was ibuprofen. Thirty-one (55.4%) reactions were immediate, and 25 (44.6%) were delayed or late. Previous history of allergy was a risk factor for NSAID hypersensitivity (p = 0.001). Vitamin D deficiency in the blood serum was a risk factor for NASID hypersensitivity (OR = 5.76 (95% Cl: 1.42–23.41)). Conclusions: Hypersensitivity to NSAIDs is a difficult diagnostic problem in pediatric allergy. The most common manifestation of hypersensitivity to ibuprofen in children is acute urticaria and angioedema. Two important problems in the differential diagnosis are cofactors such as vitamin D levels and viral infections, which require further research.
Ginsenoside Rb1 Reduces Hyper-Vasoconstriction Induced by High Glucose and Endothelial Dysfunction in Rat Aorta
Authors: Park Jubin , Shin You Kyoung , Kim Uihwan , Seol Geun Hee
Published: September 2023

Acute hyperglycemia induces oxidative damage and inflammation, leading to vascular dysfunction. Ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) is a major component of red ginseng with anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here, we investigated the beneficial effects and the underlying mechanisms of Rb1 on hypercontraction induced by high glucose (HG) and endothelial dysfunction (ED). The isometric tension of aortic rings was measured by myography. The rings were treated with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) to induce chemical destruction of the endothelium, and Rb1 was added after HG induction. The agonist-induced vasoconstriction was significantly higher in the aortic rings treated with L-NAME + HG50 than in those treated with HG50 or L-NAME (p = 0.011) alone. Rb1 significantly reduced the hypercontraction in the aortic rings treated with L-NAME + HG50 (p = 0.004). The ATP-sensitive K+ channel (KATP) blocker glibenclamide tended to increase the Rb1-associated reduction in the agonist-induced vasoconstriction in the rings treated with L-NAME + HG50. The effect of Rb1 in the aortic rings treated with L-NAME + HG50 resulted from a decrease in extracellular Ca2+ influx through the receptor-operated Ca2+ channel (ROCC, 10−6–10−4 M CaCl2, p < 0.001; 10−3–2.5 × 10−3 M CaCl2, p = 0.001) and the voltage-gated Ca2+ channel (VGCC, 10−6 M CaCl2, p = 0.003; 10−5–10−2 M CaCl2, p < 0.001), whereas Rb1 did not interfere with Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. In conclusion, we found that Rb1 reduced hyper-vasoconstriction induced by HG and ED by inhibiting the ROCC and the VGCC, and possibly by activating the KATP in rat aorta. This study provides further evidence that Rb1 could be developed as a therapeutic target for ED in diabetes.
Suprachoroidal Injection: A Novel Approach for Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Wu Kevin Y. , Fujioka Jamie K. , Gholamian Tara , Zaharia Marian , Tran Simon D.
Published: September 2023

Treating posterior segment and retinal diseases poses challenges due to the complex structures in the eye that act as robust barriers, limiting medication delivery and bioavailability. This necessitates frequent dosing, typically via eye drops or intravitreal injections, to manage diseases, often leading to side effects with long-term use. Suprachoroidal injection is a novel approach for targeted drug delivery to the posterior segment. The suprachoroidal space is the region between the sclera and the choroid and provides a potential route for minimally invasive medication delivery. Through a more targeted delivery to the posterior segment, this method offers advantages over other routes of administration, such as higher drug concentrations, increased bioavailability, and prolonged duration of action. Additionally, this approach minimizes the risk of corticosteroid-related adverse events such as cataracts and intraocular pressure elevation via compartmentalization. This review focuses on preclinical and clinical studies published between 2019 and 2023, highlighting the potential of suprachoroidal injection in treating a variety of posterior segment diseases. However, to fully harness its potential, more research is needed to address current challenges and limitations, such as the need for technological advancements, refinement of injection techniques, and consideration of cost and accessibility factors. Future studies exploring its use in conjunction with biotech products, gene therapies, and cell-based therapies can lead to personalized treatments that can revolutionize the field of ophthalmology.
Concept for a Unidirectional Release Mucoadhesive Buccal Tablet for Oral Delivery of Antidiabetic Peptide Drugs Such as Insulin, Glucagon-like Peptide 1 (GLP-1), and their Analogs
Authors: Pratap-Singh Anubhav , Guo Yigong , Baldelli Alberto , Singh Anika
Published: September 2023

Injectable peptides such as insulin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and their agonists are being increasingly used for the treatment of diabetes. Currently, the most common route of administration is injection, which is linked to patient discomfort as well as being subjected to refrigerated storage and the requirement for efficient supply chain logistics. Buccal and sublingual routes are recognized as valid alternatives due to their high accessibility and easy administration. However, there can be several challenges, such as peptide selection, drug encapsulation, and delivery system design, which are linked to the enhancement of drug efficacy and efficiency. By using hydrophobic polymers that do not dissolve in saliva, and by using neutral or positively charged nanoparticles that show better adhesion to the negative charges generated by the sialic acid in the mucus, researchers have attempted to improve drug efficiency and efficacy in buccal delivery. Furthermore, unidirectional films and tablets seem to show the highest bioavailability as compared to sprays and other buccal delivery vehicles. This advantageous attribute can be attributed to their capability to mitigate the impact of saliva and inadvertent gastrointestinal enzymatic digestion, thereby minimizing drug loss. This is especially pertinent as these formulations ensure a more directed drug delivery trajectory, leading to heightened therapeutic outcomes. This communication describes the current state of the art with respect to the creation of nanoparticles containing peptides such as insulin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and their agonists, and theorizes the production of mucoadhesive unidirectional release buccal tablets or films. Such an approach is more patient-friendly and can improve the lives of millions of diabetics around the world; in addition, these shelf-stable formulations ena a more environmentally friendly and sustainable supply chain network.
Annular Gray Tone Lithography for the Fabrication of Rotationally Symmetric Continuous Relief Meso- and Microscale Optical Elements
Authors: Knoblich Maria , Uwurukundo Xavier , Stumpf Daniela , Kraus Matthias , Hillmer Hartmut , Brunner Robert
Published: September 2023

Annular lithography is a recently introduced, flexible technique that has been tailored to the fabrication of rotationally symmetric optical structures in the meso and micro range. The optical concept for the exposure tool is based on a combination of axicons with movable components that create a ring-shaped light distribution with variable diameter in the image plane. This contribution demonstrates for the first time the use of gray tone exposure in annular lithography to fabricate continuous relief structures, overcoming the previous limitation using binary structures. For the controlled exposure of the continuous relief structures, the sensitivity curve of the resist, the exposure dose decreasing with increasing ring diameter, and the exposure time have to be considered. A control and simulation tool is introduced to provide radius-dependent exposure data and, furthermore, to control and iteratively improve the fabricated structures. To demonstrate the gray tone capabilities, various diffractive elements as well as refractive spherical and aspherical elements with a maximum diameter of ~6 mm and a maximum height of 4 µm are shown as examples. Profile shape measurements of fabricated elements show good agreement with the expectations.
Global Transcriptome and Co-Expression Network Analyses Revealed Hub Genes Controlling Seed Size/Weight and/or Oil Content in Peanut
Authors: Yang Lingli , Yang Li , Ding Yingbin , Chen Yuning , Liu Nian , Zhou Xiaojing , Huang Li , Luo Huaiyong , Xie Meili , Liao Boshou , Jiang Huifang
Published: September 2023

Cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is an important economic and oilseed crop worldwide, providing high-quality edible oil and high protein content. Seed size/weight and oil content are two important determinants of yield and quality in peanut breeding. To identify key regulators controlling these two traits, two peanut cultivars with contrasting phenotypes were compared to each other, one having a larger seed size and higher oil content (Zhonghua16, ZH16 for short), while the second cultivar had smaller-sized seeds and lower oil content (Zhonghua6, ZH6). Whole transcriptome analyses were performed on these two cultivars at four stages of seed development. The results showed that ~40% of the expressed genes were stage-specific in each cultivar during seed development, especially at the early stage of development. In addition, we identified a total of 5356 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between ZH16 and ZH6 across four development stages. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) based on DEGs revealed multiple hub genes with potential roles in seed size/weight and/or oil content. These hub genes were mainly involved in transcription factors (TFs), phytohormones, the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway, and fatty acid synthesis. Overall, the candidate genes and co-expression networks detected in this study could be a valuable resource for genetic breeding to improve seed yield and quality traits in peanut.
Blue Light Enhances Health-Promoting Sulforaphane Accumulation in Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) Sprouts through Inhibiting Salicylic Acid Synthesis
Authors: Guo Youyou , Gong Chunyan , Cao Beier , Di Tiantian , Xu Xinxin , Dong Jingran , Zhao Keying , Gao Kai , Su Nana
Published: September 2023

As a vegetable with high nutritional value, broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is rich in vitamins, antioxidants and anti-cancer compounds. Glucosinolates (GLs) are one of the important functional components widely found in cruciferous vegetables, and their hydrolysate sulforaphane (SFN) plays a key function in the anti-cancer process. Herein, we revealed that blue light significantly induced the SFN content in broccoli sprouts, and salicylic acid (SA) was involved in this process. We investigated the molecular mechanisms of SFN accumulation with blue light treatment in broccoli sprouts and the relationship between SFN and SA. The results showed that the SFN accumulation in broccoli sprouts was significantly increased under blue light illumination, and the expression of SFN synthesis-related genes was particularly up-regulated by SA under blue light. Moreover, blue light considerably decreased the SA content compared with white light, and this decrease was more suppressed by paclobutrazol (Pac, an inhibitor of SA synthesis). In addition, the transcript level of SFN synthesis-related genes and the activity of myrosinase (MYR) paralleled the trend of SFN accumulation under blue light treatment. Overall, we concluded that SA participates in the SFN accumulation in broccoli sprouts under blue light.
Seasonal Variation in Cell Wall Composition and Carbohydrate Metabolism in the Seagrass Posidonia oceanica Growing at Different Depths
Authors: Ismael Marwa , Charras Quentin , Leschevin Maïté , Herfurth Damien , Roulard Romain , Quéro Anthony , Rusterucci Christine , Domon Jean-Marc , Jungas Colette , Vermerris Wilfred , Rayon Catherine
Published: September 2023

Posidonia oceanica is a common seagrass in the Mediterranean Sea that is able to sequester large amounts of carbon. The carbon assimilated during photosynthesis can be partitioned into non-structural sugars and cell-wall polymers. In this study, we investigated the distribution of carbon in starch, soluble carbohydrates and cell-wall polymers in leaves and rhizomes of P. oceanica. Analyses were performed during summer and winter in meadows located south of the Frioul archipelago near Marseille, France. The leaves and rhizomes were isolated from plants collected in shallow (2 m) and deep water (26 m). Our results showed that P. oceanica stores more carbon as starch, sucrose and cellulose in summer and that this is more pronounced in rhizomes from deep-water plants. In winter, the reduction in photoassimilates was correlated with a lower cellulose content, compensated with a greater lignin content, except in rhizomes from deep-water plants. The syringyl-to-guaiacyl (S/G) ratio in the lignin was higher in leaves than in rhizomes and decreased in rhizomes in winter, indicating a change in the distribution or structure of the lignin. These combined data show that deep-water plants store more carbon during summer, while in winter the shallow- and deep-water plants displayed a different cell wall composition reflecting their environment.
Study of Tribological Properties and Evolution of Morphological Characteristics of Transfer Films in PTFE Composites Synergistically Reinforced with Nano-ZrO2 and PEEK Particles
Authors: Qi Yuan , Sun Bugong , Zhang Yang , Gao Gui , Zhang Peng , Zheng Xiaobao
Published: September 2023

The materials tribology community has identified that the transfer film attached to the surface of the counterpart metal during the friction process is not only closely related to the filler modification material but also a key factor affecting the tribological properties of polymer composites; however, there is a lack of feasible methods to quantify the characteristics of the transfer film. In this study, Nano-ZrO2 and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) were filled into a PTFE matrix in order to enhance the wear resistance of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). The tribological properties of the modified PTFE composites were tested using a linear reciprocating friction and wear tester, and the entire friction experiment was designed in seven separate stages. Morphological features were extracted and analyzed from photographs of the transfer film acquired by optical microscopy at each friction stage using an image processing program. The thickness and roughness of the transfer film sections were measured using a non-contact profilometer. Abrasive debris were collected, and their morphological features were observed with an electron microscope. The results showed that the synergistic addition of soft PEEK and hard Nano-ZrO2 particles effectively inhibited interlayer slippage between PTFE molecular chains, dramatically reducing the size and yield of abrasive debris, and facilitated the improvement of the thickness and firmness of the transfer film, which significantly enhanced the wear resistance of the PTFE composites (the lowest volumetric wear rate for Nano-ZrO2/PEEK/PTFE was only 1.76 × 10−4 mm3/Nm). Quantitative analyses of the morphological characteristics of the transfer films revealed that the coverage and roundness of the transfer films gradually increase with the friction stroke, while the aspect ratio and texture entropy subsequently decrease gradually. The coverage, area, mean, third-order moments, and consistency of the transfer film strongly correlated with the volumetric wear rate (correlation coefficient |r| > 0.9).
Experimental Investigation of Stress Sensitivity of Elastic Wave Velocities for Anisotropic Shale in Wufeng–Longmaxi Formation
Authors: Feng Yutian , Tang Hongming , Tang Haoxuan , Leng Yijiang , Shi Xuewen , Liu Jia
Published: September 2023

The shale of the Wufeng–Longmaxi formation in the Sichuan Basin is the preferred layer for shale gas exploration in China, and its petrophysical characteristics are the key to geological and engineering sweet spot prediction. However, the characteristics and impact mechanisms of its acoustic wave velocity and elastic anisotropy are currently unclear. In this paper, the Wufeng–Longmaxi shale is taken as the research object, and the P-wave and S-wave velocities of the samples are tested under the loading and unloading processes of confining pressure. The stress sensitivity variations in parameters such as wave velocity, wave velocity ratio, and anisotropy are discussed. P-wave and S-wave anisotropy parameters are correlated under different pressure conditions. X-ray diffraction, casting thin sections, scanning electron microscopy, micron CT scanning, and other analytical techniques are used to explore the mechanisms of stress sensitivity of elastic parameters. The research results indicate that: (1) the acoustic velocities of samples from different angles are V90° > V45° > V0°, and there is a positive correlation between the wave velocity and the confining pressure. After unloading the confining pressure, irreversible plastic deformation occurs due to the closure of some microfractures in the rock core, causing the wave velocity to be higher than the initial value. (2) The stress sensitivity coefficient of the P-wave (The mean is 3.00 m·s−1·MPa−1) is higher than that of the S-wave (the mean is 1.23 m·s−1·MPa−1), and the stress sensitivity coefficient of the compacted stage (the mean is 3.02 m·s−1·MPa−1) is higher than that of the elastic stage (the mean is 1.21 m·s−1·MPa−1). (3) The anisotropy of the P-wave and S-wave is negatively correlated with the confining pressure. When the confining pressure is loaded to 65 MPa, the change rate of the P-wave anisotropy coefficient is 23%, and its stress sensitivity is higher than that of S-wave anisotropy coefficient (the change rate is 13.7%). After unloading the confining pressure, the degree of anisotropy is reduced due to the closure of some microfractures. The empirical formula of P-wave and S-wave anisotropy parameters under different pressures is established through linear regression, which can provide a reference for mutual predictions. (4) The variation in wave velocity anisotropy with stress can be divided into stress and material anisotropy, which are related to the directional arrangement of microfractures and clay minerals, respectively. The quantitative characterization of shale anisotropy can be realized by evaluating the development degree of reservoir fractures and mineral components, providing a reference for logging interpretations, sweet spot prediction, and fracturing construction of shale gas reservoirs.
Effect of Diethyl Ether on the Performance and Emission Characteristics of a Diesel Engine Fueled with a Light Fraction of Waste Cooking Oil
Authors: Samraj Aravind , Barik Debabrata , Bhatlu Metta Laxmi Deepak , Rout Sachindra Kumar , Ayadi Badreddine , Aich Walid , Kadhim Hussein Ahmed , Kolsi Lioua
Published: September 2023

In this study, a diesel engine was used to operate with blends of light fraction waste cooking oil (LFWCO) with diethyl ether (DEE). DEE was blended as an additive in the 5% to 20% ratio in steps of 5% each. The test indicates that LFWCO+15-DEE produced optimum results regarding performance and emission. The BSFC for LFWCO+15-DEE was found to be higher by about 28.9%, and the BTE was lower by about 7.6%, in contrast to diesel, at 100% operating load, respectively. For LFWCO+15-DEE the EGT was lower by about 11.9%, in contrast to neat diesel, at 100% operating load. The various emissions such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrous oxide (NO), and smoke opacity for LFWCO+15-DEE were found to be lower by about 32.9%, 25%, and 29.4%, but the NO release was more than other blends and it was about 36%, in contrast to diesel at 100% operating load, respectively.
GEANT4 Simulation of Photoneutron Spectrum from Medical Linear Accelerator
Authors: Chernyaev Alexander , Belikhin Mikhail , Lykova Ekaterina , Shcherbakov Alexey
Published: September 2023

Photons with energy totaling more than 10 MeV provide efficient treatment for deeply seated tumors but interact with the nuclei of high-Z materials constituting a head of the linac. These interactions result in photoneutrons that deliver an additional out-of-field dose to the patient, which increases the risk of radiation-induced cancer. Monte Carlo simulation is an accurate strategy for estimating the effective photoneutron dose for a patient. In the current study, the possibility of using GEANT4 to calculate the photoneutron spectrum from the medical linac was investigated. The free-in-air photoneutron spectrum from a head of the linac was simulated using the NeutronHP experimental package. Validation of the simulated model was carried out based on a comparison of simulated and measured percentage depth–dose curves from photons in the water phantom. The obtained photoneutron spectrum was compared with the previously measured spectrum at the Varian Thilogy linac. GEANT4 may improve the accuracy of calculations of the effective dose based on photoneutrons. However, the simulated model should be improved and optimized. In the future, this model may constitute a physical basis for the prediction of the risk of radiation-induced cancer at our clinical center.
Immediate Socioeconomic Impacts of Mindoro Oil Spill on Fisherfolk of Naujan, Philippines
Authors: Agaton Casper Boongaling , Guno Charmaine Samala , Labog Russel Añonuevo , Collera Angelie Azcuna
Published: September 2023

In February 2023, an oil tanker carrying 5660 bbl of industrial fuel oil sank off Naujan in the Philippines, causing an oil spill in the waters of Oriental Mindoro and nearby provinces. The disaster affected fishing communities as well as marine ecosystems including the Verde Island Passage, which is at the “center of the world’s marine biodiversity”. This study assessed the immediate social and economic impacts of this oil spill on various communities of the Naujan coast. We conducted semi-structured interviews and employed a narrative analysis to explore the lived experiences of fisherfolk after the oil spill and to understand the socioeconomic impacts. With the prohibition of fishing and other aquatic activities, the participants lost up to USD 1300 of income per week from fishing. The participants had no other source of income due to the lack of other skills or an opportunity for an alternative livelihood in the community. While the government provided food packs and financial assistance, the participants found these insufficient to sustain their basic family needs including food, utilities, education, and health. Traces of oil were also found in the sources of potable water affecting their daily household activities. The fisherfolk, who live in communities that are vulnerable to natural and human-made hazards, had their subsistence, food security, and human well-being highly compromised. The findings provided recommendations for government interventions to mitigate the impacts of an oil spill and other future disasters, considering social, economic, and human ecological perspectives.
Soil and Rockfill Dams Safety Assessment for Henan Province: Monitoring, Analysis and Prediction
Authors: Liu Hui , Zhu Mengyuan , Zhu Wu , Zhao Wenfei , Bai Zechao , Zhou Bochen , Li Geshuang , Wang Yuanxi
Published: September 2023

It is of great significance to explore the spatial and temporal evolution of soil and rockfill dam deformation, ensuring the safety of people’s lives and healthy economic development. The spatial and temporal evolution patterns of deformation of 17 large soil and rockfill dams in Henan Province were analyzed by using the PS-InSAR technique and 55 Sentinel-1A images from March 2017 to September 2021. Based on factors such as reservoir water level and rainfall, a series of analyses were conducted on the Xiaolangdi soil and rockfill dam, which has the highest dam height and the most prominent deformation problem. The monitoring results show that all the soil and rockfill dams in Henan Province have different degrees of deformation, and there is a close relationship between dam height and deformation. In addition, the deformation rate of the Xiaolangdi soil and rockfill dam in the past five years presents a “Stepped Shape” deformation trend from the top to the bottom of the dam. The deformation of the upper, middle, and lower parts of the dam body reaches 80 mm, 40 mm, and 20 mm, respectively, among which the middle part of the dam crest has the largest deformation. Furthermore, the time series prediction model for sparrow search algorithm Long Short-Term Memory considering the moving average filter (MAF-SSA-LSTM) is proposed to predict and accurately analyze the future deformation of Xiaolangdi soil and rockfill dam with RMSE of 1.526 mm, MAE of 1.447 mm, and MAPE of 2.22%, which proved that the model has high prediction accuracy. It can truly reflect the overall deformation trend of the dam body. The results provide a theoretical basis and decision basis for the census of reservoir safety conditions and deformation history retrieval in Henan Province.
A UAV Path Planning Method for Building Surface Information Acquisition Utilizing Opposition-Based Learning Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Authors: Chen Hao , Liang Yuheng , Meng Xing
Published: September 2023

To obtain more building surface information with fewer images, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) path planning method utilizing an opposition-based learning artificial bee colony (OABC) algorithm is proposed. To evaluate the obtained information, a target information entropy ratio model based on observation angles is proposed, considering the observation angle constraints under two conditions: whether there is an obstacle around the target or not. To efficiently find the optimal observation angles, half of the population that is lower-quality generates bit points through opposition-based learning. The algorithm searches for better individuals near the bit points when generating new solutions. Furthermore, to prevent individuals from observing targets repeatedly from similar angles, the concept of individual abandonment probability is proposed. The algorithm can adaptively abandon similar solutions based on the relative position between the individual and the population. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, information acquisition experiments were conducted on real residential buildings, and the results of 3D reconstruction were analyzed. The experiment results show that while model accuracy is comparable to that of the comparison method, the number of images obtained is reduced to one-fourth of the comparison method. The operation time is significantly reduced, and 3D reconstruction efficiency is remarkably improved.
Retrieving Surface Deformation of Mining Areas Using ZY-3 Stereo Imagery and DSMs
Authors: Hu Wenmin , Xu Jiaxing , Zhang Wei , Zhao Jiatao , Zhou Haokun
Published: September 2023

Measuring surface deformation is crucial for a better understanding of spatial-temporal evolution and the mechanism of mining-induced deformation, thus effectively assessing the mining-related geohazards, such as landslides or damage to surface infrastructures. This study proposes a method of retrieving surface deformation by combining multi-temporal digital surface models (DSMs) with image homonymous features using China’s ZY-3 satellite stereo imagery. DSM is generated from three-line-array images of ZY-3 satellite using a rational function model (RFM) as the imaging geometric model. Then, elevation changes in deformation are extracted using the difference of DSMs acquired at different times, while planar displacements of deformation are calculated using image homonymous features extracted from multi-temporal digital orthographic maps (DOMs). Scale invariant feature transform (SIFT) points and line band descriptor (LBD) lines are selected as two kinds of salient features for image homonymous features generation. Cross profiles are also extracted for deformation in typical regions. Four sets of stereo imagery acquired in 2012 to 2022 are used for deformation extraction and analysis in the Fushun coalfield of China, where surface deformation is quite distinct and coupled with rising and descending elevation together. The results show that 21.60% of the surface in the study area was deformed from 2012 to 2017, while a decline from 2017 to 2022 meant that 17.19% of the surface was deformed with a 95% confidence interval. Moreover, the ratio of descending area was reduced to 6.44% between 2017 and 2022, which is lower than the ratios in other years. The slip deformation area in the west open pit mine is about 1.22 km2 and the displacement on the south slope is large, reaching an average of 26.89 m and sliding from south to north to the bottom of the pit between 2012 and 2017, but elevations are increased by an average of about 16.35 m, involving an area of about 0.86 km2 between 2017 and 2022 due to the restoration of the open pit. The results demonstrate that more quantitative features and specific surface deformation can be retrieved in mining areas by combining image features with DSMs derived from ZY-3 satellite stereo imagery.
A Spatial–Temporal Block-Matching Patch-Tensor Model for Infrared Small Moving Target Detection in Complex Scenes
Authors: Aliha Aersi , Liu Yuhan , Ma Yapeng , Hu Yuxin , Pan Zongxu , Zhou Guangyao
Published: September 2023

Detecting infrared (IR) small moving targets in complex scenes quickly, accurately, and robustly remains a challenging problem in the current research field. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel spatial–temporal block-matching patch-tensor (STBMPT) model based on a low-rank sparse decomposition (LRSD) framework. This model enhances the traditional infrared patch-tensor (IPT) model by incorporating joint spatial–temporal sampling to exploit inter-frame information and constructing a low-rank patch tensor using image block matching. Furthermore, a novel prior-weight calculation is introduced, utilizing the eigenvalues of the local structure tensor to suppress interference such as strong edges, corners, and point-like noise from the background. To improve detection efficiency, the tensor is constructed using a matching group instead of using a traditional sliding window. Finally, the background and target components are separated using the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM). Qualitative and quantitative experimental analysis in various scenes demonstrates the superior detection performance and efficiency of the proposed algorithm for detecting infrared small moving targets in complex scenes.
Reconfigurable Digital Satellite-Borne Base Station Design and Virtual Function Fast Migration Algorithm
Authors: Shi Yuanji , Wang Ping , Zhu Xiaorong , Zhu Hongbo
Published: September 2023

A breakthrough in the technology for virtualizing satellite-borne networks and computing and storage resources can significantly increase the processing capacity and resource utilization efficiency of satellite-borne base stations in response to the development trend in multi-star and multi-system converged satellite internet iterative systems. The protocol processing function of traditional satellite communication systems is generally placed in the ground station system for processing, with poor flexibility and low efficiency. As a result, a reconfigurable digital satellite-borne base station architecture design is suggested, allowing for separation of the hardware and software of the satellite-borne base station and flexible programming and dynamic loading of the satellite-borne base station’s functions by software. Meanwhile, a fast adaptive migration algorithm based on multi-dimensional environment awareness is proposed on top of the reconfigurable digital base station, and migration precomputation and real-time computation are added in order to realize rapid deployment of the digital base station system network. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in enhancing system stability and decreasing real-time calculation costs associated with system network migration under conditions of high dynamic changes for each network element in a star-loaded environment. In conclusion, a digital satellite-borne base station system that effectively addresses the issues of low flexibility and high dynamic changes of nodes in the resource-constrained satellite environment can be created by combining the adaptive migration algorithm and the reconfigurable digitized satellite-borne base station architecture.
Chaotic Effect-Based Array Duffing Systems with Improved Nonlinear Restoring Force for Weak Signal Detection in Dynamic MWD
Authors: Yang Yi , Ding Qian , Gao Yi , Chen Jia
Published: September 2023

In the process of dynamic Measurement While Drilling (MWD), the strong vibration and rapid rotation of the Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) lead to multi-frequency and high-amplitude noise interference in the attitude measurement signal. The weak original signal and extremely low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) are always the technical difficulties of dynamic MWD. To solve this problem, this paper uses the chaotic effect of the Duffing system, which takes the expression (−x3 + x5) as a nonlinear restoring force to detect the weak characteristic signal of downhole dynamic MWD. First of all, in order to meet the limit condition of the chaotic phase transition of the system output, the frequency value of the characteristic signal is reconstructed and transformed based on the variable scale theory. Then, in order to solve the influence of the initial phase of the characteristic signal on the detection accuracy, a detection model based on the array Duffing system is presented, and a frequency-detection scheme with all-phase coverage is given. Finally, another array Duffing system is designed for the parameter estimation of the characteristic signal. The critical value of chaotic phase transition is determined by adjusting the amplitude of the driving signal of the array Duffing system, and then the amplitude and phase parameters of the characteristic signal are synchronously estimated. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively extract the weak characteristic signal within the strong noise, and the SNR of the characteristic signal can be as low as −21 dB. Through the attitude calculation for the extracted characteristic signal, it can be seen that the proposed method can improve the accuracy of the inclination of the drilling tool significantly, which proves the feasibility and effectiveness of the method proposed in this paper.
Research on Guidance Methods of Digital Twin Robotic Arms Based on User Interaction Experience Quantification
Authors: Wu Wenyu , Li Mingrui , Hu Jincheng , Zhu Shuwei , Xue Chengqi
Published: September 2023

The evolution of the manufacturing sector coupled with advancements in digital twin technology has precipitated the extensive integration of digital twin robotic arms within the industrial domain. Notwithstanding this trend, there exists a paucity of studies examining the interaction of these robotic arms in virtual reality (VR) contexts from the user’s standpoint. This paper delves into the virtual interaction of digital twin robotic arms by concentrating on effective guidance methodologies for the input of their target motion trajectories. Such a focus is pivotal to optimize input precision and efficiency, thus contributing to research on the virtual interaction interfaces of these robotic arms. During empirical evaluations, metrics related to human–machine interaction, such as objective operational efficiency, precision, and subjective workload, were meticulously quantified. Moreover, the influence of disparate guidance methods on the interaction experience of digital twin robotic arms and their corresponding scenarios was investigated. Consequent findings offer pivotal insights regarding the efficacy of these guidance methods across various scenarios, thereby serving as an invaluable guide for future endeavors aiming to bolster interactive experiences in devices akin to digital twin robotic arms.
Quality Control of Carbon Look Components via Surface Defect Classification with Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Silenzi Andrea , Castorani Vincenzo , Tomassini Selene , Falcionelli Nicola , Contardo Paolo , Bonci Andrea , Dragoni Aldo Franco , Sernani Paolo
Published: September 2023

Many “Industry 4.0” applications rely on data-driven methodologies such as Machine Learning and Deep Learning to enable automatic tasks and implement smart factories. Among these applications, the automatic quality control of manufacturing materials is of utmost importance to achieve precision and standardization in production. In this regard, most of the related literature focused on combining Deep Learning with Nondestructive Testing techniques, such as Infrared Thermography, requiring dedicated settings to detect and classify defects in composite materials. Instead, the research described in this paper aims at understanding whether deep neural networks and transfer learning can be applied to plain images to classify surface defects in carbon look components made with Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers used in the automotive sector. To this end, we collected a database of images from a real case study, with 400 images to test binary classification (defect vs. no defect) and 1500 for the multiclass classification (components with no defect vs. recoverable vs. non-recoverable). We developed and tested ten deep neural networks as classifiers, comparing ten different pre-trained CNNs as feature extractors. Specifically, we evaluated VGG16, VGG19, ResNet50 version 2, ResNet101 version 2, ResNet152 version 2, Inception version 3, MobileNet version 2, NASNetMobile, DenseNet121, and Xception, all pre-trainined with ImageNet, combined with fully connected layers to act as classifiers. The best classifier, i.e., the network based on DenseNet121, achieved a 97% accuracy in classifying components with no defects, recoverable components, and non-recoverable components, demonstrating the viability of the proposed methodology to classify surface defects from images taken with a smartphone in varying conditions, without the need for dedicated settings. The collected images and the source code of the experiments are available in two public, open-access repositories, making the presented research fully reproducible.
Optimizing Smart Campus Solutions: An Evidential Reasoning Decision Support Tool
Authors: Ahmed Vian , Khatri Mohamed Faisal , Bahroun Zied , Basheer Najihath
Published: September 2023

Smart technologies have become increasingly prevalent in various industries due to their potential for energy cost reduction, productivity gains, and sustainability. Smart campuses, which are educational institutions that implement smart technologies, have emerged as a specific application of these technologies. However, implementing available smart technologies is often not feasible due to various limitations, such as funding and cultural restrictions. In response, this study develops a mathematical decision-making tool based on the evidential reasoning (ER) approach and implemented in Python. The tool aims to assist universities in prioritizing smart campus solutions tailored to their specific needs. The research combines a comprehensive literature review with insights from stakeholder surveys to identify six principal objectives and four foundational technologies underpinning smart campus solutions. Additionally, six critical success factors and nine functional clusters of smart campus solutions are pinpointed, and evaluated through the ER approach. The developed decision-support tool underwent validation through various statistical tests and was found to be highly reliable, making it a generalized tool for worldwide use with different alternatives and attributes. The proposed tool provides universities with rankings and utilities to determine necessary smart applications based on inputs such as implementation cost, operation cost, maintenance cost, implementation duration, resource availability, and stakeholders’ perceived benefit.
Social Cohesion in Times of Crisis: The Role of Communication for Democracies—Editors’ Introduction
Authors: Pérez-Curiel Concha , Rivas-de-Roca Rubén
Published: September 2023

Global crises are becoming a feature of our society [...]
Acute Effect of Four Stretching Protocols on Change of Direction in U-17 Male Soccer Players
Authors: Ltifi Mohamed Amine , Jlid Mohamed Chedly , Coquart Jérémy , Maffulli Nicola , van den Tillaar Roland , Aouadi Ridha
Published: September 2023

Background: The ability to rapidly change direction while sprinting is a desirable athletic skill in soccer. Enhancing change of direction (COD) performance depends almost exclusively on specific training, with stretching traditionally considered one such intervention. However, the comparative impact of diverse stretching methods on COD in soccer players remains an area of interest. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of different stretching methods on COD ability in soccer players. Methods: Twelve male soccer players playing in the national championship football division II (age: 16.3 ± 0.3 years, height: 1.81 ± 0.10 m, body mass: 67.7 ± 7.2 kg) were tested for COD performance (i.e., Illinois agility test) after (1) control condition (20 min general warm-up without stretching), (2) static stretching, (3) dynamic stretching, (4) combined static-dynamic stretching, and (5) combined dynamic-static stretching. The duration of stretching intervention was approximately 6 min for static and dynamic stretching and 12 min for both the combined stretching conditions. The experimental sessions were separated by 72 h. Results: COD improved after dynamic stretching when compared to any other condition (p: 0.03–0.002; ηp2: 0.56–0.73), except for the control condition (p = 0.146; ηp2 = 0.18). In contrast, static stretching induced a detrimental effect on COD when compared only to the dynamic stretching condition (p < 0.01; ES = 1.35). Conclusion: Dynamic stretching exercises used by male soccer players in the warm-up improved COD. Other forms of stretching exercises, particularly static stretching, negatively impacted the COD performance. Therefore, coaches can consider integrating dynamic stretching protocols tailored to the athletes’ specific needs. Moreover, extending the investigation to encompass a wider range of athletes, including different age groups and genders, would enhance the applicability and generalization of the findings.
Potential of Using Waste Materials in Flexible Pavement Structures Identified by Optimization Design Approach
Authors: Jelušič Primož , Gücek Süleyman , Žlender Bojan , Gürer Cahit , Varga Rok , Bračko Tamara , Taciroğlu Murat V. , Korkmaz Burak E. , Yarcı Şule , Macuh Borut
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the design of geosynthetic reinforced flexible pavements and their modification by incorporating waste materials into bonded and unbonded layers of the pavement structure. The optimal design of flexible pavements was achieved by minimizing the construction cost of the pavement. The incorporation of waste materials into the pavement structure affects the material properties. Therefore, along with the traffic load, the effects of the material properties of the asphalt concrete, base layer, sub-base layer, and subgrade were analyzed in terms of pavement structure costs and CO2 emissions of materials used in pavement construction. In addition, a comparison was made between pavements with and without geosynthetic reinforcement in terms of design, optimum construction cost, and CO2 emissions. The use of geosynthetics is even more effective in pavement structures that contain waste materials in an unbound layer, both in terms of cost and CO2 emissions. The minimum value of the California Bearing Ratio of the subgrade was determined at which the use of geosynthetic reinforcement for pavement structure with and without the inclusion of waste materials is economically and sustainably justified. The use of geosynthetics could result in a 15% reduction in pavement structure cost and a 9% reduction in CO2 emissions due to the reduced thickness of unbound layers. In addition, reducing the CBR of the unbound layer from 100% to 30% due to the inclusion of waste materials implies a cost increase of up to 13%. While the present study is based on an empirical pavement design method in which pavement thickness is limited by the pavement thickness index, the same minimum thicknesses are obtained in the optimization process regardless of whether the objective function is the minimum construction cost or minimum CO2 emissions.
Fuzzy K-Means and Principal Component Analysis for Classifying Soil Properties for Efficient Farm Management and Maintaining Soil Health
Authors: Shukla Manoj K. , Sharma Parmodh
Published: September 2023

Soil health indicators can guide soil management-related decisions for sustainable agriculture. Principle component (PC) analysis and the fuzzy k-means technique, also known as continuous classification, are useful for designing site-specific management strategies for varying soil properties within a contiguous area. The objective of this study was to identify appropriate soil health indicators as well as to create contiguous areas for precision management of a large diverse farm from measured soil properties. From the farm, which is sited on Armijo–Harkey soil, 286 loose and intact samples were obtained, representing a depth of 15 cm from the soil surface. Statistical analysis showed that several data were log-normally distributed. PCA analysis showed that the first three PCs explained 73% of the variation with PC1, consisting of factors related to the soil’s physical condition; PC2, containing factors related to chemical properties; and PC3, including factors related to macro- and micro-porosities. Minimizing the fuzziness performance index (FPI) and modified partition entropy (MPE) delineated four management classes. The membership class maps showed that the contrasting management strategies could be developed for the four management zones to achieve yield goals while conserving scarce surface water for irrigation, increasing water use efficiency, and decreasing nitrate leaching in arid and semi-arid irrigated farmlands.