bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resilience and emotional intelligence as mediators between personal values and life satisfaction among Chinese young adults
Authors: Lv Fangyan , Tan Jingbin , Shi Dongzhe , Gao Dingguo
Published: December 2024

Background

Young adults are in the period of the formation and establishment of values. Even though previous research has revealed that personal values are important factors influencing young adults’ life satisfaction, it is still unknown when and under what circumstances values affect life satisfaction among young adults. Therefore, this study explored the relationship between personal values and life satisfaction among Chinese young adults, focusing on the mediating roles of resilience and emotional intelligence.

Methods

A sample of N = 635 (271 male) young adults from four universities located in Guangzhou were recruited using a cross-sectional stratified sampling method. All participants completed the Revised Portrait Value Questionnaire, Emotional Intelligence Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale, and Brief Resilience Scale.

Results

Results revealed that: (1) self-transcendence (r = 0.29, p < 0.001), self-enhancement (r = 0.27, p < 0.001), openness to change (r = 0.22, p < 0.001), and conservation (r = 0.26, p < 0.001) were differentially positively associated with life satisfaction. Chain mediation analysis found that: there was a significant indirect effect for self-transcendence, via EI (ind = 0.070, p = 0.004, 95% CI = [0.027, 0.124]), and the sequential influence via EI and resilience suggested a moderate effect (ind = 0.024, p = 0.008, 95% CI = [0.009, 0.045]). For self-enhancement values exerted significantly negative indirect effects on LS via resilience (ind = −0.029, p = 0.034, 95% CI = [−0.060, −0.005]). Openness to change had a significant indirect impact on LS via EI (ind = 0.086, p < 0.001, 95% CI = [0.046, 0.133]), and the sequential influence via resilience and EI was significant (ind = 0.029, p = 0.001, 95% CI = [0.015, 0.050]). For conservation, the chain mediation model did not reveal any significant indirect effects via resilience or EI.

Conclusion

Our findings extend the current literature on personal values and life satisfaction, highlighting the significant effects of resilience and emotional intelligence on the link between personal values and life satisfaction. Overall, this research helps young adults strengthen their resilience and emotional intelligence to increase the impact of values on life satisfaction.
Evaluating the effect of a virtual reality digital therapeutic on maternal stress among expectant and postpartum Black and Latina mothers: a protocol paper
Authors: Carrasco Mary , Dimanche Stacyca , Fouladian Joshua , Neff Marisela , Scaramutti Carolina , Moloney Mairead , Blanc Judite , Seixas Azizi
Published: December 2024

Background

Maternal mental health is vital to overall well-being, particularly among expectant and postpartum Black and Latina women who experience higher stress levels and mental health challenges. Traditional healthcare systems often fail to meet these needs, underscoring the need for innovative and accessible interventions. NurtureVR, a digital maternal mental health and educational program, leverages virtual reality to offer mindfulness, relaxation, and guided imagery to support these women.

Objectives

This protocol aims to evaluate whether NurtureVR, a digital therapeutic, can reduce stress levels and mental health symptoms in pregnant and postpartum Black and Latina women, improve sleep, enhance pregnancy and childbirth experiences, and increase pregnancy and postpartum health literacy.

Methods

The Nurturing Moms study uses a pre- and post-intervention design with a 5-week NurtureVR program. Fifty participants, 25 expectant and 25 postpartum Black and Latina women, will be recruited through clinics, community organizations, and online platforms. The study involves three phases: baseline assessments of stress, mood, self-efficacy, demographics, and health history; daily use of NurtureVR for 15 minutes during the third trimester and six weeks postpartum; and follow-up assessments at six weeks postpartum. The program includes 49 modules on labor and delivery, stress during pregnancy, nutrition, breastfeeding, hormonal changes, 3D VR representations of fetal development, pain management simulations, and mindfulness exercises for labor. Participants will report stress, anxiety, mood, and pain levels following each VR session. Additional qualitative insights will be gathered through focus groups, and an optional survey will be administered one-year post-intervention to evaluate long-term effects.

Conclusions

The Nurturing Moms study seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare landscape, demonstrating that digital interventions like NurtureVR are essential for providing high-quality maternal care. By democratizing access to clinical research and healthcare, this decentralized trial promotes equity, improves the generalizability of findings, and accelerates the development of new treatments. The study’s innovative approach has the potential to improve maternal experiences of stress, sleep, and overall health outcomes for Black and Latina mothers and children, despite limitations such as sample size, language barriers, and the preliminary nature of a pilot and feasibility study.
Effects of mind-body exercise on individuals with ADHD: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peng Jin , Wang Weiran , Wang Yiting , Hu Fengting , Jia Mingyuan
Published: December 2024

Objective

To explore the effects of mind-body exercise (MBE) on ADHD through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

After identifying relevant search keywords based on the study’s technical terminology, research articles were retrieved from five databases. Two researchers independently screened the results to select studies that met the inclusion criteria. A random-effects model was used to conduct a meta-analysis on the included studies.

Results

The findings indicate that MBE interventions significantly improved attention in individuals with ADHD [SMD=-0.97, 95% CI (-1.56, -0.39), P < 0.05]. However, the meta-analysis found no evidence that MBE improved executive function, emotional issues, or hyperactivity/impulsivity in ADHD patients.

Conclusions

MBE is beneficial for attention improvement in ADHD patients. However, further evidence is needed to support its efficacy as an adjunctive treatment for other symptoms.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023447510.
Measurement and decomposition of education-related inequality in exclusive breastfeeding practice among Ethiopian mothers: applying Wagstaff decomposition analysis
Authors: Dessie Anteneh Mengist , Zemene Melkamu Aderajew , Gebeyehu Asaye Alamneh , Anley Denekew Tenaw , Anteneh Rahel Mulatie , Moges Natnael , Chanie Ermias Sisay , Tsega Sintayehu Simie , Belete Melaku Ashagrie , Alemayehu Ermiyas , Kebede Natnael
Published: December 2024

Background

Human breast milk, a naturally balanced source of infant nutrition, promotes optimal growth and health when exclusively fed for 6 months. Exclusive breastfeeding reduces common childhood infections, provides protection against some chronic illnesses, and contributes to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals. Despite its benefits, only 58% of Ethiopian women practice it, and the associated education-related inequality is not well documented. Thus, this study aims to quantify and decompose the education-related inequality in exclusive breastfeeding practice among Ethiopian mothers.

Methods

A total of 1,504 weighted samples were studied using a Performance Monitoring for Action Ethiopia longitudinal panel survey dataset (2021–2023). Wagstaff normalized concentration index and its concentration curve were used to assess education-related inequality in exclusive breastfeeding practice. Wagstaff decomposition analysis was performed to decompose the concentration index and identify factors contributing to the observed education-related inequality. Significance was declared at p-value <0.05.

Results

The overall prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding among Ethiopian women was 57.29% (95% CI: 54.79, 59.80%), with a greater concentration found among women with lower levels of education. This indicates an inequality that favors less educated women (pro-less educated inequality), as demonstrated by the Wagstaff normalized concentration index of −0.058 (95% CI: −0.113, −0.002). Factors that made a significant contribution to the observed education-related inequality in exclusive breastfeeding practice were residence (18.80%), region (29.31%), place of birth (−7.38%), and the wantedness status of the indexed pregnancy (82.58%). The indexed pregnancy’s wantedness was made a more elastic (elasticity = 0.282) contribution.

Conclusion

The study identified a small yet significant education-related inequality in exclusive breastfeeding, favoring less educated women. Hence, emphasis should be placed not only on educating women but also on healthy habits that they can leave behind when they learn. Residence, region, place of birth, and indexed pregnancy’s wantedness significantly contributed to the observed education-related inequality. The elasticity value for each factor suggests that policy changes addressing these factors could readily reduce the observed inequality.
Interventions to support the psychological empowerment of nurses: a scoping review
Authors: Huang Liebin , Liu Ming , Wang Xin , Hsu Meihua
Published: December 2024

Background

Establishing an empowering work environment is significantly contributing to nurse’s job satisfaction, performance, retention, and organizational success. This study aimed to conduct a scoping review to chart and synthesize current research on interventions to support nurses’ psychological empowerment.

Methods

Ten databases were searched, including PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, EBSCOhost, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and OpenGrey, following the Joanna Briggs Institute’s methodology for scoping reviews. The search encompassed literature from its inception to 5 September 2024. The selection of studies followed predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A manualized systematic quality assessment method was applied to the included studies, and the extracted data were charted using a series of tables.

Results

Eleven studies were included. Seven studies reported the theoretical framework used. The interventions are all educational and are divided into two main sections: theoretical learning and applied practice. The duration of the interventions spanned a wide range of hours. The intervention format was based on offline training. The participants included both nurse managers and nurses. The evaluation measures were mostly multiple time points using the Spreitzer Psychological Empowerment Instrument. The interventions were generally effective, although some studies reported different results.

Conclusion

Research on psychological empowerment interventions for nurses is still in the developmental phase, with preliminary evidence validating their positive effects. Future research should focus on conducting randomized controlled studies with larger sample sizes, selecting appropriate theoretical frameworks to design interventions, enriching the content and form of interventions, and strengthening evaluation measures to improve the quality of psychological empowerment interventions for nurses.

Systematic review registration

OSF, https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/W7ZG6.
Measuring the One Health impacts associated with creating access to veterinary care before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hawes Sloane M. , O’Reilly Kaleigh M. , Mascitelli Tess M. , Winczewski Jordan , Dazzio Romi , Arrington Amanda , Morris Kevin N.
Published: December 2024

Integrating community perceptions into One Health assessments is critical to understanding the structural barriers that create disproportionate health outcomes for community members, their pets, and the ecosystems that encompass them, particularly in historically marginalized and under-resourced communities. The validated One Health Community Assessment (OHCA) survey instrument was used to evaluate the associated impacts of The Humane Society of the United States’ Pets for Life (PFL) programming on communities’ perceptions of One Health. This evaluation took place across two phases, totaling four years. In phase one (May 2018 – December 2019), the PFL intervention was administered to one urban and one rural under-resourced community, while two demographically-paired communities served as comparison sites. Five OHCA subscales (human health, pet health, environmental health, community health, perceived links) were employed to measure changes in perceptions of One Health and fourteen OHCA items were used to measure perceptions of access to human healthcare, pet care, and the environment. Initiation of the confirmatory second phase of the study (May 2020–October 2021), in which all four communities received the intervention, coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic and its resulting public health mandates hindered both PFL programming and data collection. Generalized Estimating Equations were employed in both the first and second phase analyses to model changes in perceptions of One Health associated with the PFL intervention. In the study’s first phase, PFL in the urban community was associated with significant increases in perceptions of community health and environmental health, and perceived access to human health care, pet care, and the environment. The presence of PFL during the study’s second phase was associated with increased perceptions of environmental health. The variables of PFL and the pandemic were not able to be isolated within the analyses. However, due to the severe, negative One Health implications associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the phase two results were interpreted from the perspective of the pandemic being the largest driver of the results. The results are consistent with previous research on the effects of the pandemic on community perceptions of health. These findings offer initial support for the hypothesis that deployment of resources focused on companion animals may affect perceptions across the One Health triad and confirms previous research on effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vaccination of pregnant women: an overview of European policies and strategies to promote it
Authors: Properzi S. , Carestia R. , Birettoni V. , Calesso V. , Marinelli B. , Scapicchi E. , Brillo E. , de Waure C.
Published: December 2024

Maternal immunization is a valuable tool for protecting mother and unborn child from vaccine-preventable diseases. However, the implementation of strategies for vaccinating pregnant women has only recently gained traction. This work is aimed at providing an overview of European vaccination strategies and gathering evidence on interventions enhancing vaccination knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAB) in pregnant women. To summarize current pregnancy vaccination strategies in Europe, we consulted literature, institutional national health system websites, and the ECDC Vaccine Scheduler. The review of evidence on interventions targeting pregnant women’s vaccination KAB was performed by searching primary studies on PubMed and Web of Science. The 27 EU member states offer various vaccinations in pregnancy, but only 10 recommend all of these: tetanus, pertussis, diphtheria, influenza, and COVID-19, albeit with different administration schedules. The literature review included 7 studies, 3 from Italy and 4 from other European countries (UK, Netherlands, Greece, Poland, and Ukraine). They were conducted in various settings such as childbirth preparation courses, prenatal visits, and online platforms, and all included educational interventions providing information on vaccine safety and efficacy during pregnancy. Knowledge about vaccines and vaccine-preventable diseases, generally low in the pre-intervention period, increased post-intervention, with a rise in awareness of the risks associated with infectious diseases and the recommended vaccines, a reduction in vaccine-related misinformation, and a greater propensity to vaccinate both newborns and themselves. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in adherence to recommended vaccinations, particularly among those with higher educational levels. However, vaccine hesitancy persisted, influenced by factors such as fear of adverse events and the lack of recommendations from healthcare providers. Variations in pregnancy vaccination strategies across Europe emphasize the importance of establishing a unified framework to optimize maternal and fetal health outcomes through evidence-based policies. Educational interventions may positively impact pregnant women’s KAB, therefore promoting vaccination uptake.
Case report: Vitamin B12 deficiency-associated hemolytic anemia
Authors: Sainatham Chiranjeevi , Dy Paul Stendahl , Kaushik Sharanya , Tallapalli Jayanth Reddy , Patel Viral , Jindal Vishal , Paul Sonal
Published: December 2024

Vitamin B12 deficiency is commonly known to cause hematological, neurological, and gastrointestinal disturbances including anemia, pancytopenia, sub-acute combined degeneration, and glossitis, among others. Hemolytic anemia is a rare but possible presentation of vitamin B12 deficiency. We present a case series of three elderly females with different past medical histories but with similar presentations of severe anemia. Initial investigation revealed pancytopenia and hemolytic anemia. Further evaluation indicated vitamin B12 deficiency and subsequently, pernicious anemia, as confirmed by low serum vitamin B12 levels and positive intrinsic cell antibody respectively. These findings directed the diagnosis toward vitamin B12 deficiency-induced hemolytic anemia, a rare clinical entity. All three patients responded to treatment with intramuscular vitamin B12 injections, showing significant improvement in their pancytopenia and hemolytic anemia. This case series highlight the importance of considering vitamin B12 deficiency as a potential cause of hemolytic anemia in patients presenting with pancytopenia and ineffective hematopoiesis. Further research is necessary to illuminate the therapeutic implications of this rare condition.
Clinical feasibility study of transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair in dogs with the canine V-Clamp device
Authors: Potter Brianna M. , Orton E. Christopher , Scansen Brian A. , Abbott-Johnson Katie M. , Visser Lance C. , Chi I-Jung B. , Ross Evan S. , Del Nero Bruna , Tantisuwat Lalida , Krause Ellen T. , Rezende Marlis L. , Mama Khursheed
Published: December 2024

Objective

To determine procedural feasibility, safety, and short-term efficacy in dogs with severe degenerative mitral regurgitation (MR) undergoing transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) with a canine-specific device.

Design

Prospective, single-arm (uncontrolled), single-institution clinical feasibility study.

Animals

Fifty client-owned dogs with severe degenerative MR operated over a 28-month period.

Methods

TEER was performed using the canine mitral V-Clamp via a transapical approach using transesophageal echocardiographic and fluoroscopic guidance. Indices of MR severity were determined by echocardiography the day before and 2 to 3 days after the procedure.

Results

Procedural feasibility was 96% based on delivery of at least one device in 48 of 50 dogs. There were no procedural deaths. Procedural safety was 96% based on survival to hospital discharge in 48 of 50 dogs. Euthanasia in 2 dogs prior to hospital discharge was due to damage of the mitral valve and worsened MR after the procedure. Device-related adverse event rate was 6.3% based on 3 events (single-leaflet device detachment, locking failure, locking failure with device embolization) in 59 implanted devices. All three events were nonfatal and successfully treated with a second device. Median regurgitant volume (mL/kg) decreased (p < 0.001) from 2.3 [1.9, 3.1] to 1.1 [0.3, 1.8]. Median effective regurgitant orifice area (cm2/m2) decreased (p < 0.001) from 0.60 [0.40, 0.80] to 0.25 [0.10, 0.50].

Conclusion and clinical importance

Initial feasibility results support continued development of TEER as a procedurally feasible, relatively low-risk, and low morbidity treatment for degenerative MR in dogs. Operator experience and case selection are likely to be important components of success of this technique. Evidence of short-term efficacy is promising but needs to be verified with longer-term follow up.
Validation of an infectious bronchitis virus GVIII-specific RT-PCR assay and first detection of IB80-like strains (lineage GVIII-2) in Italy
Authors: Legnardi Matteo , Poletto Francesca , Franzo Giovanni , Harper Valeria , Bianco Luca , Andolfatto Cristina , Blanco Angela , Biarnés Mar , Ramon Laura , Cecchinato Mattia , Tucciarone Claudia Maria
Published: December 2024

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a pathogen causing respiratory, renal and reproductive clinical forms in chickens of all ages and productive categories. Its proneness to mutation and recombination gave rise to a plethora of variants differing in terms of pathogenicity, antigenicity, and distribution, with relevant implications for disease control, mainly pursued by routine vaccination, and diagnosis, requiring a steady update of molecular and serological methods. Among the most recent additions to the current phylogenetic classification, based on S1 gene sequencing, is the discovery of an eighth genotype (GVIII), further divided into lineages GVIII-1 and GVIII-2. GVIII-2, whose best-known representative is IB80, has been reported since 2015 in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Most detections occurred in layers and breeders and were possibly associated to egg production drops. However, experimental reproduction of its pathogenicity could not be achieved. The significant genetic divergence of GVIII from other genogroups prevents its detection by many of the commonly applied biomolecular tests, hampering the understanding of its spread and impact. This study describes the validation of a GVIII-specific RT-PCR assay and its application to analyze samples collected from layer farms in Italy, where the presence of this genotype has never been investigated. The in-house assay proved highly reliable and allowed to establish the circulation of GVIII-2 in the country: between April and June 2024, 11 out of 84 flocks (13.1%) in 5 out of 24 farms (20.8%) tested positive. Phylogenetically, all Italian strains clustered together, whereas their identity with IB80 was 96.8–97.7%. Reproductive signs were reported in one farm and respiratory signs in another, whereas no clinical findings were recorded in the remaining positive cases. Although no definitive conclusions are possible on their prevalence and clinical relevance, the obtained results suggest that the presence of GVIII-2 strains in Italy is neither novel nor sporadic, highlighting the need to revise diagnostic approaches and shed light on the epidemiology of this novel lineage.
Contribution of goats to climate change: how and where?
Authors: Kerven Carol
Published: December 2024

This review examines the contribution of domestic goats (Capra hircus) to climate change, particularly through greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The review seeks to outline the global numerical importance and physical characteristics of domestic goats; Compare goats with other main livestock species in terms of their climate impacts; Assess the types of environments and farmers most likely to raise goats; Investigate the climate change impacts of raising goats, focusing on variables such as feed sources, management systems (intensive vs. extensive), and methodologies used to measure these impacts. The conclusion is that the negative reputation of goats needs to be re-evaluated, given their importance to poorer farm families and the potential overstatement or misunderstanding of their climate impact. Goats are the third most common ungulate livestock globally, with an estimated population of 1.1 billion. They are particularly suited to harsh environments due to their physiological advantages, such as efficient utilization of fibrous woody material and resilience to extreme climates. Goats are crucial for poorer farmers, especially in lower and middle-income countries in Africa and Asia. They provide milk, meat, and other products, are readily sold and have low labour requirements, making them ideal for families with limited resources. Goats emit less methane per unit body weight compared to other ruminants like cattle and sheep. However, the extent of their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions varies significantly based on their diet, management system (extensive vs. intensive), and environmental conditions. Extensive systems, where goats forage on natural pastures, may result in low GHG emissions per unit of land area due to carbon sequestration and minimal reliance on high-energy feed. Intensive systems, which use more cultivated energy feed, produce lower methane emissions per unit of product but incur carbon costs arising from feed production. In sum, this review suggests that the negative reputation of goats regarding climate change may be overstated or misunderstood. More research is needed to accurately measure the GHG impacts of goats, considering factors like feed quality, management practices, and carbon sequestration.
Unlocking the Potential of Remanufacturing Through Machine Learning and Data-Driven Models—A Survey
Authors: Kim Yong Han , Ye Wei , Kumar Ritbik , Bail Finn , Dvorak Julia , Tan Yanchao , May Marvin Carl , Chang Qing , Athinarayanan Ragu , Lanza Gisela , Sutherland John W. , Li Xingyu , Nath Chandra
Published: December 2024

As a key strategy for achieving a circular economy, remanufacturing involves bringing end-of-use (EoU) products or cores back to a ‘like new’ condition, providing more affordable and sustainable alternatives to new products. Despite the potential for substantial resources and energy savings, the industry faces operational challenges. These challenges arise from uncertainties surrounding core quality and functionality, return times, process variation required to meet product specifications, and the end-of-use (EoU) product values, as well as their new life expectancy after extended use as a ‘market product’. While remanufacturing holds immense promise, its full potential can only be realized through concerted efforts towards resolving the inherent complexities and obstacles that impede its operations. Machine learning (ML) and data-driven models emerge as transformative tools to mitigate numerous challenges encountered by manufacturing industry. Recently, the integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as sensor-based product data acquisition and storage, data analytics, machine health management, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven scheduling, and human–robot collaboration (HRC), in remanufacturing procedures has received significant attention from remanufacturers and the circular economy community. These advanced computational technologies help remanufacturers to implement flexible operation scheduling, enhance quality control, and streamline workflows for EoU products. This study embarks on a comprehensive review and in-depth analysis of state-of-the-art algorithms across various facets of remanufacturing processes and operations. Additionally, it identifies key challenges to advancing remanufacturing practices through data-driven and ML methods and uncovers research opportunities in synergy with smart manufacturing techniques. The study aims to offer guidelines for stakeholders and to reinforce the industry’s pivotal role in circular economy initiatives.
Issues on a 2–Dimensional Quadratic Sub–Problem and Its Applications in Nonlinear Programming: Trust–Region Methods (TRMs) and Linesearch Based Methods (LBMs)
Authors: Fasano Giovanni , Piermarini Christian , Roma Massimo
Published: December 2024

This paper analyses the solution of a specific quadratic sub-problem, along with its possible applications, within both constrained and unconstrained Nonlinear Programming frameworks. We give evidence that this sub–problem may appear in a number of Linesearch Based Methods (LBM) schemes, and to some extent it reveals a close analogy with the solution of trust–region sub–problems. Namely, we refer to a two-dimensional structured quadratic problem, where five linear inequality constraints are included. Finally, we detail how to compute an exact global solution of our two-dimensional quadratic sub-problem, exploiting first order Karush-Khun-Tucker (KKT) conditions.
Bayesian Regression Analysis for Dependent Data with an Elliptical Shape
Authors: Yu Yian , Tang Long , Ren Kang , Chen Zhonglue , Chen Shengdi , Shi Jianqing
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a parametric hierarchical model for functional data with an elliptical shape, using a Gaussian process prior to capturing the data dependencies that reflect systematic errors while modeling the underlying curved shape through a von Mises–Fisher distribution. The model definition, Bayesian inference, and MCMC algorithm are discussed. The effectiveness of the model is demonstrated through the reconstruction of curved trajectories using both simulated and real-world examples. The discussion in this paper focuses on two-dimensional problems, but the framework can be extended to higher-dimensional spaces, making it adaptable to a wide range of applications.
The First Fifth-Generation District Heating and Cooling System in Kazakhstan: Planning and Design
Authors: Chicherin Stanislav , Zhuikova Yana , Pyanykh Tatyana , Zhuikov Andrey , Baidyussenov Galym , Abildinova Saule
Published: December 2024

This paper focuses on the potential for integrating Geographic Information System (GIS) software into Fifth-Generation District Heating and Cooling (5GDHC) systems to promote efficient and sustainable energy management, particularly in Kazakhstan. By reviewing the key literature, we identify three main areas where GIS software enhances the planning of 5GDHC systems: decision-making in the context of energy market regulations, operational data utilization, and modeling/simulations for technical design. The technical design emphasizes the role of heat pumps, ultra-low temperature district heating (ULTDH) networks, and end-user buildings. Previous research has explored various methodologies for integrating network and demand-side strategies, developing sustainable district heating and cooling (DHC) systems, and mapping urban areas suitable for DHC deployment. However, none has presented an open-source model incorporating GIS-based decision-making in designing 5GDHC systems. This study, for the first time, addresses this gap through a case study conducted in the Northern Industrial Zone of Karaganda, Kazakhstan, demonstrating how GIS-enhanced modeling can be effectively applied in a developing, industry-driven economy. We outline the mathematical framework for comparing existing simulation tools and developing a custom model suited to the region’s needs. Additionally, we discuss validation and calibration methods, which remain underexplored in the current literature. The proposed model incorporates waste heat recovery from local sources, including nearby wastewater treatment plants, showcasing a sustainable energy solution for the industrial park. The results indicate that a well-structured 5GDHC system, supported by GIS tools, can markedly enhance energy efficiency and sustainability, presenting a scalable and adaptable approach for other regions in Kazakhstan and beyond.
Comparative Assessments of At-Sea and Inland Low- and Medium-Pressure CO2 Transport
Authors: Røe Ingeborg Treu , Oeuvray Pauline , Mazzotti Marco , Roussanaly Simon
Published: December 2024

Developing cost-efficient systems for transporting CO2 is key to accelerating the deployment of carbon capture and storage. The present work explores the impact of reducing the pressure of tank-based inland and at-sea transport on their techno-economic performance. The study uses established techno-economic models for CO2 transport, adjusted with the most up-to-date knowledge on the costs of low-pressure containment and transport. In particular, the impact of cargo tank material and design on the transport costs show that low-pressure cargo tank systems can be 50% less expensive than medium-pressure systems if materials with similar price and strength can be used. This results in reductions in transport costs as high as 30% for long distances. This is partly driven by the currently suggested size limitation on medium-pressure shipping that limits its economies of scale. If this limitation is alleviated, the cost advantage of low-pressure shipping compared to medium-pressure is more limited (10–20%) although it remains advantageous. The same scaling effects on capacity were not found for truck and barge inland transport, thus yielding 1–10% cost reductions of low-pressure transport relative to medium-pressure transport. These results imply that future systems may combine medium-pressure inland and low-pressure at-sea transport and that efficient solutions connecting the two must be investigated.
Effect of Corn Stover Ensiling on Methane Production and Carbon Dioxide Emissions
Authors: Przybył Jacek , Wojcieszak Dawid , Garbowski Tomasz
Published: December 2024

The biogas and biomethane sectors are crucial for the European Union’s energy transition. One strategy for achieving the EU’s biogas and biomethane targets while reducing the use of agricultural land for energy feedstock production is to use alternative biomass streams. Such a stream includes agricultural residues and by-products. A good example is crop residues after harvesting corn for grain, which are available in large quantities. Due to the fact that they are lignocellulosic biomasses, they require pretreatment. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of ensiling enhancers on the methane yield of corn stover silages. Corn stover, which was harvested using the same technology, was ensiled in the first variant with an ensiling enhancer preparation based on bacteria of the Lactobacillus plantarum strain (DSM 3676 and DSM 3677) and two strains of propionic acid bacteria (DSM 9676 and DSM 9677), in the second variant with a formulation whose active ingredients were sodium benzoate, propionic acid, and sodium propionite, and in the third with a formulation based on lactic acid bacteria of the strain Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus Buchneri. The fourth variant was the control; that is, the material was ensiled naturally without the ensiling enhancer preparation. The use of the ensiling enhancer, based on lactic acid bacteria of the Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus Buchneri strains, reduced carbon dioxide emissions per 1 GJ of silage energy potential in the biogas production process. Specifically, the unique contribution of this research lies in demonstrating the role of ensiling enhancers in improving methane yield and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
An Assessment of the Performance and Emissions of an Otto Power Generator Group Operating with Wet Ethanol at a High Volumetric Compression Ratio
Authors: Moreira Vinícius Guerra , Hanriot Sérgio de Morais , Nazareno Tales , Ferreira Bruno Eustáquio Pires , Juliatti Rafael Motter , Silveira Hairton Júnior José da , Maia Cristiana Brasil
Published: December 2024

This work presents an experimental study of the performance and emissions of an internal combustion engine operating in the Otto cycle with a high volumetric compression ratio (17:1). The engine was initially fueled with the standard ethanol used in Brazil, with 7% distilled water (E93W07); we then studied the effects of using different ethanol-in-water mixtures, or ‘wet ethanol’, with 17%, 27%, 37%, and 47% distilled water concentrations. The tests were carried out with power loads of 5.0–25.0 kW at 5.0 kW intervals and with power loads of 27.5–35.0 kW at 2.5 kW intervals, whether by adding up the loads or by taking them away. The ignition timing was changed to evaluate each load imposed on the engine to avoid knocking. Specific fuel consumption (SFC), brake thermal efficiency (BTE), carbon dioxide emissions (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and total hydrocarbon content (THC), as well as the internal pressure in the cylinder and the heat release rate, were measured, and the results are compared. The results show a reduction in CO and NOx and an increase in THC emissions. However, there were no significant changes in CO2 emissions when the distilled water percentage in ethanol increased. Regarding the brake thermal efficiency, it was observed that it remained approximately constant for all blends, with the same load being applied to the engine shaft, reaching a maximum value of 35%. The results obtained confirm the technical feasibility of operating an internal combustion engine in the Otto cycle with a high volumetric compression ratio using ethanol with up to 47% distilled water without significant loss of performance.
Comparative Study of Different Machine Learning Models for Heat Transfer Performance Prediction of Evaporators in Modular Refrigerated Display Cabinets
Authors: Nong Kaifei , Zhang Hua , Liu Zhenzhen
Published: December 2024

This study explores the potential of machine learning models to predict evaporator heat transfer performance in Modular Refrigerated Display Cases (MRDCs). Six experimental datasets from MRDC systems were analyzed to compare the efficacy of six machine learning models: Linear Regression, Decision Tree Regression, Support Vector Machines (SVMs), Feedforward Neural Networks (FNNs), Random Forest (RF), and Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM). The findings indicate that the ensemble tree-based models, LightGBM and RF, are particularly effective in predicting evaporator heat transfer performance. These models demonstrate high accuracy and robustness, effectively capturing the nonlinear relationship between the evaporator temperature and heat transfer coefficient. Moreover, LightGBM and RF exhibit notable stability and adaptability in scenarios of limited data availability and elevated noise levels. Their consistent predictive accuracy across different experimental conditions highlights their suitability for complex refrigeration systems. This research provides essential insights for optimizing MRDC evaporator performance, establishing a theoretical and data-driven foundation for energy-efficient enhancements and intelligent management within cold chain systems.
Fired Heaters Optimization by Estimating Real-Time Combustion Products Using Numerical Methods
Authors: Sánchez Ricardo , Palencia-Díaz Argemiro , Fábregas-Villegas Jonathan , Velilla-Díaz Wilmer
Published: December 2024

Fired heaters upstream of distillation towers, despite their optimal thermal efficiency, often suffer from performance decline due to fluctuations in fuel composition and unpredictable operational parameters. These heaters have high energy consumption, as fuel properties vary depending on the source of the crude oil. This study aims to optimize the combustion process of a three-gas mixture, mainly refinery gas, by incorporating more stable fuels such as natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to improve energy efficiency and reduce LPG consumption. Using real-time gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) data, we accurately calculate the mass fractions of individual compounds, allowing for more precise burner flow rate determinations. Thermochemical data are used to calculate equilibrium constants as a function of temperature, with the least squares method, while the Newton–Raphson method solves the resulting nonlinear equations. Four key variables (X4,X6,X8, and X11), representing H2,CO,O2, and N2, respectively, are defined, and a Jacobian matrix is constructed to ensure convergence within a tolerance of 1 ×10−6 over a maximum of 200 iterations, implemented via Python 3.10.4 and the scipy.optimize library. The optimization resulted in a reduction in LPG consumption by over 50%. By tailoring the fuel supply to the specific thermal needs of each processing unit, we achieved substantial energy savings. For instance, furnaces in the hydrocracking unit, which handle cleaner subproducts and benefit from hydrogen’s adiabatic reactions, require much less energy than those in the primary distillation unit, where high-impurity crude oil is processed.
Novel Single-Stage Electrolytic Capacitor-Less Buck-Boost Inverter
Authors: Choi Youn-Ok , Nguyen Khai M.
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, single-phase, single-stage, buck-boost power inverters are mostly considered to be used for renewable energy source applications due to their wide range of capabilities. This article introduces a novel, single-phase, single-stage, buck-boost inverter with a wide range of input DC voltage. In addition, the introduced inverter does not use the electrolytic capacitor, which enhances the lifetime and volume reduction in the inverter, avoids the high equivalent series resistance, and reduces the inrush current of electrolytic capacitors in the introduced inverter. Moreover, the introduced inverter exhibits a reduced switch voltage rating, and the novel PWM control strategy with the half-cycle of the sinusoidal is derived to reduce the switching loss of power switches, thus improving the inverter’s efficiency. The operation states, theoretical analysis, and design of components are fully discussed. A comparative study of the introduced inverter with other buck-boost inverter topologies is also reported. Finally, the 500 W laboratory prototype is set up for simulation and experimental verification. The experimental results verify the correctness of operating analysis and simulation.
Short-Term Energy Generation Forecasts at a Wind Farm—A Multi-Variant Comparison of the Effectiveness and Performance of Various Gradient-Boosted Decision Tree Models
Authors: Kopyt Marcin , Piotrowski Paweł , Baczyński Dariusz
Published: December 2024

High-quality short-term forecasts of wind farm generation are crucial for the dynamically developing renewable energy generation sector. This article addresses the selection of appropriate gradient-boosted decision tree models (GBDT) for forecasting wind farm energy generation with a 10-min time horizon. In most forecasting studies, authors utilize a single gradient-boosted decision tree model and compare its performance with other machine learning (ML) techniques and sometimes with a naive baseline model. This paper proposes a comprehensive comparison of all gradient-boosted decision tree models (GBDTs, eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Light Gradient-Boosting Machine (LightGBM), and Categorical Boosting (CatBoost)) used for forecasting. The objective is to evaluate each model in terms of forecasting accuracy for wind farm energy generation (forecasting error) and computational time during model training. Computational time is a critical factor due to the necessity of testing numerous models with varying hyperparameters to identify the optimal settings that minimize forecasting error. Forecast quality using default hyperparameters is used here as a reference. The research also seeks to determine the most effective sets of input variables for the predictive models. The article concludes with findings and recommendations regarding the preferred GBDT models. Among the four tested models, the oldest GBDT model demonstrated a significantly longer training time, which should be considered a major drawback of this implementation of gradient-boosted decision trees. In terms of model quality testing, the lowest nRMSE error was achieved by the oldest model—GBDT in its tuned version (with the best hyperparameter values obtained from exploring 40,000 combinations).
How Responsible Are Energy and Utilities Companies in Terms of Sustainability and Economic Development?
Authors: Fometescu Adelina , Hategan Camelia-Daniela , Pitorac Ruxandra-Ioana
Published: December 2024

The increasing importance of ESG (environmental, social, governance) scores in investment decisions has led to a growing interest in understanding their impact on corporate performance, particularly in the energy and utilities sector. This study’s focus is to identify the research gap regarding the connection between corporate adherence to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the financial outcomes of these companies. The research objective is to examine the correlation between ESG scores and key financial metrics, such as return on assets (ROAs) and return on equity (ROE), using a quantitative approach to analyze a dataset of publicly traded companies in this sector. Using a panel data regression analysis, we identified a significant correlation suggesting that higher ESG scores are associated with improved financial performance for the entire sample and separately for the two sectors. These findings indicate that companies with robust ESG practices enhance their sustainability profile and achieve better operational efficiency and profitability. This research contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence of the positive impact of ESG factors on corporate performance in a sector characterized by high environmental impact and regulatory scrutiny. Ultimately, this study underscores the necessity for energy and utilities companies to integrate ESG considerations into their strategic frameworks, thereby aligning financial objectives with sustainable practices to drive long-term success.
Pararamosis, a Neglected Tropical Disease Induced by Premolis semirufa Caterpillar Toxins: Investigating Their Effects on Synovial Cell Inflammation
Authors: Pohl Paula C. , Villas-Boas Isadora M. , Pidde Giselle , Tambourgi Denise V.
Published: December 2024

Pararamosis, also known as Pararama-associated phalangeal periarthritis, is a neglected tropical disease primarily affecting rubber tappers in the Amazon region. It is caused by contact with the urticating hairs of the Premolis semirufa moth caterpillar, which resides in rubber plantations. The condition is marked by the thickening of the articular synovial membrane and cartilage impairment, features associated with chronic synovitis. Given the significance of synovial inflammation in osteoarticular diseases, in this study, the role of synoviocytes and their interactions with macrophages and chondrocytes are examined when stimulated by Pararama toxins. Synoviocytes and macrophages treated with Pararama hair extract showed an increased production of cytokines IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, indicating a direct effect on these cells. In cocultures, there was a significant rise in inflammation, with levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and chemokines CCL2, CCL5, and CXCL8 increasing up to seven times compared to monocultures. Additionally, matrix-degrading enzymes MMP-1 and MMP-3 were significantly elevated in cocultures. Chondrocytes exposed to the extract also produced IL-6, CCL2, and CCL5, and in cocultures with synoviocytes, there was a notable increase in IL-6, CCL5, and CXCL8, as well as a doubling of MMP-1 and MMP-3 levels. These findings underscore the critical role of cell crosstalk in the inflammatory and catabolic processes associated with pararamosis and demonstrate how Pararama hair extract can influence factors affecting cartilage health, providing valuable insights into this condition.