bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovation Metrics: A Critical Review
Authors: Todorov Lyubomir , Shopova Margarita , Panteleeva Iskra Marinova , Todorova Lyubomira
Published: November 2024

Innovations are complex phenomena with important impacts on firms, regions, the economy as a whole, society, and the environment. Measuring innovation is a challenging and time-consuming task with many problems ranging from the conceptual framework to data collection and interpretation. The development of the produced variety of single indicators and multidimensional metrics covers one or more innovation characteristics—inputs, stages, sources, mechanics, outputs, and impacts. While the abundance of metrics allowed measurement of many innovation aspects, it also created problems with comparability, coverage, timeliness, and reliability, making it difficult for academics, businesses and policymakers to efficiently use the information, perform correct analysis and make adequate decisions. To address this problem, this article aimed to review the literature, develop instruments for the structuring and assessment of the innovation measurements, systematize the variety of metrics, and evaluate their compliance with the requirements of users’ needs and the quality of statistical information. The literature review identified 23 innovation metrics and helped create a classification scheme with 11 attributes and a criteria checklist with seven criteria groups. The results from the application of the instrument for the identified metrics revealed that they could be divided into three groups: appropriate, needing refinement, and unsuitable, with the best ones being the European Innovation Scoreboard and Global Innovation Index. They too showed some data gaps, connected with cultural environment, sustainability, open innovations, structural changes, and regional development, thus reinforcing the necessity for further advancement of theory and methodology for innovation measurement to augment the high-quality macro-information that is readily available with firm-level qualitative data of the innovation at the place where they emerge.
Evolving Microcredential Strategies for Enhancing Employability: Employer and Student Perspectives
Authors: Alenezi Mamdouh , Akour Mohammed , Alfawzan Layla
Published: November 2024

In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting workforce demands, higher education institutions must continuously evolve to foster lifelong learning and career adaptability. This paper presents an updated framework for integrating microcredentials—such as digital badges, certificates, and other forms of recognition—into traditional academic programs. By acknowledging and validating specific skills and competencies, microcredentials can enhance student motivation, engagement, and employability in an increasingly dynamic job market. The updated framework emphasizes a more integrated, personalized, and agile approach to learning, addressing emerging challenges in assessment, quality assurance, and institutional adaptation. Moreover, this study investigates the perspectives of employers and students regarding the value and effectiveness of microcredentials. It explores how employers perceive microcredentials as valuable tools for skill verification and hiring decisions, while students view them as critical for enhancing their employability and advancing their careers. This paper examines recent advancements in microcredentialing, discusses the evolving landscape of lifelong learning, and offers insights into how these innovations can bridge the gap between formal education and professional practice. With strategic implementation, microcredentials can significantly contribute to a more responsive and effective higher education system, preparing students for success in a continually changing environment.
A Systematic Review of the Literature on Maker Education and Teacher Training
Authors: Quintana-Ordorika Amaia , Garay-Ruiz Urtza , Portillo-Berasaluce Javier
Published: November 2024

This systematic review aims to analyse the existing research on the introduction of maker education in teacher training and continuous professional development. There is a growing interest in defining the state of the art on this topic. Using the WOS database, 20 empirical studies published in peer-reviewed journals between 2019 and 2023 were further analysed. The studies were systematically examined to identify the general characteristics related to the type of maker education training intervention. The principal findings of this review indicate that the majority of training programmes are primarily aimed at pre-service and in-service teachers, and the number of articles published has increased significantly in recent years; moreover, the characteristics of these programmes vary considerably across the studies identified, indicating an uneven distribution of research activity. Despite the growth in the literature, there is still a notable gap in terms of the specific knowledge acquisition that teachers require in order to effectively implement maker education. While many studies emphasise equipping educators with both practical skills and theoretical knowledge, fewer focus solely on knowledge acquisition. This review emphasises the value of immersive experiences for training teachers, demonstrating the positive impact such experiences can have on their confidence and mindset. Additionally, the potential of virtual training programmes to create collaborative, supportive learning environments represents an innovative approach to enhancing teacher preparation in maker education. Based on the findings, it must be emphasised that there is still a need for the further research and development of maker education training models specifically designed to facilitate the integration of making approaches into formal education.
A Compact and High-Power Rectenna Array for Wireless Power Transmission Applications
Authors: Huang Dajiu , Li Jincheng , Du Ziqiang , Liu Changjun , He Zhongqi , Zhang Ji
Published: November 2024

Microwave wireless power transmission (MWPT) applications have attracted worldwide interest and attention in recent years. Rectennas are a crucial component of a MWPT system. The rectenna’s power capacity and output DC power have great significance with regard to the MWPT system’s performance. In this article, a compact 4 × 4 S-band rectangular patch rectenna array for MWPT is proposed and experimentally verified. Firstly, an S-band rectifier with better consistency and lower cost than a traditional output design using parallel capacitors as a filter is achieved. Then, a rectenna array based on the proposed rectifier and a novel design idea is proposed. The rectenna can achieve an output DC power of 117.6 mW/cm3 and an efficiency of 47.6%. Finally, a MWPT verification experiment is conducted. A 12-inch LCD screen powered by the rectenna with a rated power of 12 W successfully works without any other power supply. This article provides a new design of a rectenna for MWPT, and the proposed rectenna array demonstrates its good engineering significance and application prospects.
Experiments and Heat Transfer Correlation Validations of Low-Parameter Region of sCO2 Flow in a Long Thin Vertical Loop
Authors: Song Rufan , Feng Yongchang , Yang Dong , Zeng Gang , Mei Deqing , Pioro Igor , Chen Lin
Published: November 2024

The focus of this study is to accurately predict the convective heat transfer of CO2 to ensure the safe and efficient design of supercritical and trans-critical CO2 energy systems. The heat transfer performance of CO2 is crucial for the stable operation of these systems. This research study explored the flow and heat transfer behavior of CO2 in a long thin vertical loop through experiments. A range of key parameters were set in the experiments to ensure the broad coverage of operating conditions. The inlet temperature was set between 10 °C and 45 °C, the pressure ranged from 6.0 to 9.0 MPa, mass fluxes varied from 500 to 1500 kg/m2s, and the heat flux reached up to 300 kW/m2. Experiments were performed at Reynolds number 104. By adjusting these parameters, the experiments were able to simulate CO2 heat transfer performance under various real-world conditions. Additionally, numerical simulations were employed to further analyze CO2’s flow and heat transfer behavior. Different turbulence models were tested, and the results showed that the SST k-ω model can best predict CO2 convective heat transfer, effectively capturing the complex heat transfer characteristics under varying flow conditions. The research outcomes were compared with established correlations through the Nusselt number, and while a ±30% uncertainty was observed, the overall agreement was satisfactory. This indicates that the experimental and simulation results are within a reasonable range, confirming their reliability.
Energetic Efficiency of a Deep Borehole Heat Exchanger Adapted from a Freezing Borehole Based on a Long-Term Thermal Response Test
Authors: Sliwa Tomasz , Drosik Jakub , Kruszewski Michał , Assadi Mohsen , Kotyła Stanisław
Published: November 2024

This paper describes the characteristics of a thermal response test and presents the results of the test conducted on a borehole at the freezing shaft in Poland. Freezing boreholes are temporary boreholes created to facilitate other geological work, especially for large-diameter mine shafts or other boreholes. Due to their nature, they are abandoned after the necessary work around the mine shaft is completed. The economical point of view suggests that, after their use as freezing boreholes, they should be used for heating if possible. In this paper, the authors aim to suggest that they can be utilized as borehole heat exchangers. Large numbers of freezing boreholes sit idle across the globe while they could be used as a renewable energy source, so creating a new way to obtain heating power in the future should be popularized. The paper includes a description of the implementation method of the thermal response test and the results of the test on a sample freezing borehole intended for abandonment. The test results were interpreted, and the key parameters of the borehole heat exchanger based on the freezing borehole were determined to be satisfactory. The possibilities of other borehole uses are also described.
A Pseudo-Waveform-Based Method for Grading ICESat-2 ATL08 Terrain Estimates in Forested Areas
Authors: Zhao Rong , Hu Qing , Liu Zhiwei , Li Yi , Zhang Kun
Published: November 2024

The ICESat-2 Land and Vegetation Height (ATL08) product is a new control point dataset for large-scale topographic mapping and geodetic surveying. However, its elevation accuracy is typically affected by multiple factors. The study aims to propose a new approach to classify ATL08 terrain estimates into different accuracy levels and extract reliable ground control points (GCPs) from ICESat-2 ATL08. Specifically, the methodology is divided into three stages. First, the ATL08 terrain estimates are matched with the raw ATL03 photon cloud data, and the ATL08 terrain estimates are used to fit a continuous terrain curve. Then, using the fitted continuous terrain curve and raw ATL03 photon cloud data, a pseudo-waveform is generated for grading the ATL08 terrain estimates. Finally, all the ATL08 terrain estimates are graded based on the peak characteristics of the generated pseudo-waveform. To validate the feasibility of the proposed method, four study areas from the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), characterized by various terrain features and forest types were selected. High-accuracy airborne lidar data were used to evaluate the accuracy of graded ICESat-2 terrain estimates. The results demonstrate that the method effectively classified all ATL08 terrain estimates into different accuracy levels and successfully extracted high-accuracy GCPs. The root mean square errors (RMSEs) of the first accuracy level in the four selected study areas were 0.99 m, 0.51 m, 1.88 m, and 0.65 m, representing accuracy improvement of 51.7%, 58.2%, 83.1%, and 68.8%, respectively, compared to the original ATL08 terrain estimates before classifying. Additionally, a comparison with the conventional threshold-based GCP extraction method demonstrated the superior performance of our proposed approach. This study introduces a new approach to extract high-quality elevation control points from ICESat-2 ATL08 data, particularly in forested areas.
Gamification of Orthodontic Treatment with Personalised Facemasks: Enhancing Patient Compliance Through Playful Engagement
Authors: Marti Patrizia , Teverini Giulia , Goracci Cecilia , Franchi Lorenzo
Published: November 2024

Class III malocclusions, a dentofacial deformity requiring early intervention, pose significant challenges due to the need for prolonged use of facemasks by young patients. The SuperPowerMe project aims to improve compliance with the orthodontic treatment by integrating personalised, sensor-equipped facemasks with gamification. Through a design thinking process, the facemasks were custom-fitted using 3D facial scanning and 3D-printed with biocompatible materials to ensure comfort and ergonomic fit. Sensors embedded in the mask monitored wear time, and data collected were used to engage children in a video game allowing children to progress through game challenges as they complied with the treatment. Observational studies were conducted, evaluating patients’ adherence and comfort levels. The results indicated a substantial increase in daily wear time and patient satisfaction, with self-reported compliance closely matching sensor data. The personalised design and gamified elements fostered higher patient autonomy over the treatment period, although minor technical issues with the facemasks were noted. In conclusion, the results suggest that gamification paired with custom devices holds promise as a strategy for improving adherence to long-term orthodontic treatments in children. Further refinement of the system and broader trials are promoted to fully validate the efficacy of therapy gamification.
Safe Firefighting Distances Using FDS and ALOHA for Oil Tank Fires
Authors: Hung Ming-Chuan , Lin Ching-Yuan , Hsiao Gary Li-Kai
Published: November 2024

Ensuring firefighter safety during oil tank fires is paramount, given the substantial risks posed by thermal radiation. This study employs both the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) and Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmospheres (ALOHA) software to simulate a severe oil tank fire scenario at the Zhushan Branch Power Plant, where two heavy oil tanks and multiple light oil tanks are located. The simulation framework divides the combustion scenario into 22.4 million grids with a grid size of 0.5 m, allowing a fine-resolution assessment of thermal radiation. Assuming a worst-case scenario involving n-Heptane combustion, the FDS simulation calculates essential parameters, including temperature, velocity, and soot distribution fields, and suggests a minimum safe firefighting distance of 22 m (equivalent to one tank diameter, 1D) for those equipped with personal protective equipment when exposed to a 5 kW/m2 heat flux. Meanwhile, ALOHA modeling extends the safety assessment, recommending a downwind safety distance of 62 m (approximately 2D) to establish a preliminary exclusion zone, crucial in early emergency response when data may be incomplete. Additionally, a grid sensitivity analysis was conducted to validate the accuracy of the numerical results. This study underscores the importance of coupling FDS and ALOHA outputs to develop a balanced, adaptive approach to firefighter safety, optimizing response protocols for high-risk environments. The results provide essential guidance for establishing safety zones, advancing standards within fire protection and emergency response, and supporting strategy development for large-scale oil and petrochemical storage facilities.
Flammability and Reaction to Fire of Different Plant Species Intended as Vertical Greenery on Building Façades
Authors: Ghazi Wakili Karim , Fischer Dario , dos Santos Réjane , Renfer Christoph
Published: November 2024

Vertical greenery or green walls are spreading rapidly not only in Southeast Asia but also in colder regions such as Western and Central Europe. The simultaneous growth and densification of larger cities has accelerated this trend recently as these cities require increased green space to improve living quality. A significant issue directly affecting security aspects regarding building components covered with different kinds of plants is their fire behaviour. A major parameter expected to influence this behaviour is the moisture content of the plants and their ability to retain moisture in case of irrigation interruption. In this study, four different plant species were chosen due to their hardiness which favours their usage as vertical greenery under the climatic conditions of Central Europe. Bomb and cone calorimetric investigations and single-flame source tests were carried out on them. These tests have been executed at different plant moisture contents as the fire behaviour of plants is obviously influenced by their moisture content. The results quantify the remarkable individuality of the plants with respect to their reaction to fire exposure in both moist and dry conditions. The findings can be extrapolated to quantify the overall fire behaviour of a green façade, especially the accruing heat content. Additionally, an optimized position of different plants within the façade can be derived to reduce the flame propagation probability upward of the façade.
Research Progress on Nutritional Requirements and Formulated Feeds for Siniperca: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Peng Jianhui , Bao Lingsheng , Tuo Yun , Chu Wuying , Fang Huaipeng
Published: November 2024

Siniperca species are highly valued freshwater fishes in China. In 2022, the country’s production of farmed Siniperca reached 401 kilotons. With the growing demand for high-quality aquatic products, Siniperca aquaculture offers major economic benefits and promising development prospects. However, the current reliance on live bait in Siniperca farming has resulted in resource wastage, environmental pollution, and disease outbreaks, hindering the healthy and sustainable growth of the industry. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the nutritional requirements of Siniperca in artificial farming, with a focus on proteins, amino acids, lipids, fatty acids, carbohydrates, and micronutrients. We also summarize the progress made in researching alternative protein and lipid sources, feed additives, and the development of artificially formulated feeds to replace live bait. The findings of this review will serve as a reference for further research on the nutritional requirements and development of formulated feeds for Siniperca aquaculture.
Hybrid and Plant-Based Burgers: Trends, Challenges, and Physicochemical and Sensory Qualities
Authors: Mercês Ziane da Conceição das , Salvadori Natalia Maldaner , Evangelista Sabrina Melo , Cochlar Tatiana Barbieri , Rios Alessandro de Oliveira , Oliveira Viviani Ruffo de
Published: November 2024

Burgers have become a staple of global cuisine and can have several different versions and combinations. For example, hybrid burgers have a percentage of animal protein in their formulation, while plant-based burgers contain 100% plant-based proteins. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the emerging trends and challenges in the formulation of hybrid and plant-based burgers, with an emphasis on new ingredients and the evaluation of their physical, chemical, and sensory properties. An integrative literature review on alternative burgers to meat ones was carried out, focusing on hybrid products (meat + plant-based) and fully plant-based burgers. The studies analyzed show that plant-based and hybrid burgers can be developed with different protein sources, such as soybeans, white beans, textured peas, pseudocereals, and cashew nuts, with good nutritional and sensory characteristics. While hybrid burgers combine meat and plant-based proteins to reduce saturated fats, plant-based burgers show equal promise, with a high protein and fiber content, a lower fat content, and good sensory acceptance. However, despite the market potential of these products, there are challenges to be overcome, among which are their texture and flavor, which are essential characteristics of animal-meat burgers. Another point to take into account is the diversity of preferences among consumers with different beliefs or eating styles: vegans, for example, do not prefer a product that is very similar to meat, unlike flexitarians, who seek products which are similar to animal meat in all attributes.
Quantitative Assessment of Brix in Grafted Melon Cultivars: A Machine Learning and Regression-Based Approach
Authors: Ercan Uğur , Sonmez Ilker , Kabaş Aylin , Kabas Onder , Calık Zyambo Buşra , Gölükcü Muharrem , Paraschiv Gigel
Published: November 2024

The article demonstrates the Brix content of melon fruits grafted with different varieties of rootstock using Support Vector Regression (SVR) and Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) model approaches. The analysis yielded primary fruit biochemical measurements on the following rootstocks, Sphinx, Albatros, and Dinero: nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Established models were evaluated with Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), Mean Square Error (MSE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), and Coefficient of Determination (R2) metrics. In the test section, the results of the MLR model were calculated as MAE: 0.0728, MAPE: 0.0117, MSE: 0.0088, RMSE: 0.0936, and R2: 0.9472, while the results of the SVR model were calculated as MAE: 0.0334, MAPE: 0.0054, MSE: 0.0016, RMSE: 0.0398, and R2: 0.9904. Despite both models performing well, the SVR model showed superior accuracy, outperforming MLR by 54% to 82% in terms of predictions. The relationships between Brix levels and various nutrients, such as sucrose, glucose, and fructose, were found to be strong, while titratable acidity had a minimal effect. SVR was found to be a more reliable, non-destructive method for melon quality assessment. These findings revealed the relationship between Brix and sugar levels on melon quality. The study highlights the potential of these machine learning models in optimizing the rootstock effect and managing melon cultivation to improve fruit quality.
Numerical Simulation and Solutions for the Fractional Chen System via Newly Proposed Methods
Authors: Elbadri Mohamed , Abdoon Mohamed A. , Almutairi D. K. , Almutairi Dalal M. , Berir Mohammed
Published: November 2024

This study presents two methods: a novel numerical scheme that utilizes the Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (ABC) derivative and the Laplace New Iterative Method (LNIM). Furthermore, some complex dynamic behavior of fractional-order Chen is observed. The NABC method illustrates chaotic systems. We used the LNIM method to find analytical solutions for fractional Chen systems. The method stands out for its user-friendliness and numerical stability. The proposed methods are effective and yield analytical solutions and detection of chaotic behavior. Simultaneously, this results in a more precise understanding of the system. As a result, we may apply the approach to different systems and achieve more accurate findings. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated to be effective in accurately identifying instances through the exhibition of attractor chaos. Future applications in science and engineering can utilize these two methods to find numerical simulations and solutions to a variety of models.
Gene Selection of Methionine-Dependent Melanoma and Independent Melanoma by Variable Selection Using Tensor Decomposition
Authors: Kobayashi Kenta , Taguchi Y-h.
Published: November 2024

Methionine is an essential amino acid. Dietary methionine restriction is associated with decreased tumor growth in preclinical studies and extended lifespans in animal models. The mechanism by which methionine restriction inhibits tumor growth while sparing normal cells is not fully understood. In this study, we applied tensor decomposition-based feature extraction for gene selection from the gene expression profiles of two cell lines of RNA sequencing. We compared two human melanoma cell lines, A101D and MeWo. A101D is a typical cancer cell line that exhibits methionine dependence. MeWo is a methionine-independent cell line. We used the application on R, TDbasedUFE, to perform an enrichment analysis of the selected gene set. Consequently, concordance with existing research on the differences between methionine-dependent melanoma and methionine-independent melanoma was confirmed. Targeting methionine metabolism is considered a promising strategy for treating melanoma and other cancers.
Genome-Wide Association Studies Revealed Several Candidate Genes of Meat Productivity in Saryarka Fat-Tailed Coarse-Wool Sheep Breed
Authors: Dossybayev Kairat , Amandykova Makpal , Orakbayeva Ainur , Adylkanova Sholpan , Kozhakhmet Altynay , Yergali Kanagat , Kulboldin Temirlan , Kulataev Beibit , Torekhanov Aibyn
Published: November 2024

Background: Saryarka sheep belong to fat-tailed coarse-wool sheep breed. This breed is distinguished by increased meat productivity while being competitive in young lamb production. Live weight and body indices are relevant data for assessing sheep body constitution, which directly affects the breeding characteristics and meat productivity of animals. Objectives: This study aimed to find associations with SNPs and nine phenotypic characteristics of the Saryarka fat-tailed coarse-wool sheep breed including live weight and eight body indices (wither height, rump height, bicoastal diameter, body depth, body length, rump width, heart girth, and cannon bone circumference), and find candidate genes related to these characteristics. Methods: A total of 100 animals from the Karaganda region of Kazakhstan were used in this study. Live weight and eight body indices of sheep were measured using tape and electronic scales. The blood samples of the animals were used for DNA extraction. DNA samples were genotyped with the OvineSNP50 Genotyping BeadChip and analyzed using GWAS. Statistically significant SNPs were identified for each characteristic trait referencing the genome of Ovis aries (Oar_v3.1) using BioMart. Results: The GWAS results demonstrated a substantial chromosomal-level correlation between 32 chromosome-wide significant and suggestively significant SNPs in the studied sheep breed. Overall, seven SNPs located in seven different genes were revealed as candidates for live weight and four body indices: s20793.1 SNP in the IGFBP6 gene for live weight, OAR4_54217431.1 SNP in the ST7 gene for bicoastal diameter, s25229.1 in the SCD5 gene, and s01175.1 SNP in the DTNBP1 gene for rump width, OAR2_175574781.1 SNP in the KYNU gene for heart girth, and OAR1_209022621.1 SNP in the FGF12 gene and s15415.1 SNP in the FTO gene for cannon bone circumference. Some of these genes were previously reported to be involved in body constitution and fat deposit in other sheep breeds. Conclusions: The results of the present study open up new opportunities for targeted sheep breeding for meat and fat productivity.
Quantitative Trait Loci Mappings for the Sulfur Utilization Efficiency-Related Traits at the Seedling Stage of Wheat
Authors: Ma Longteng , Li Jiali , Wang Hui , Zhai Yunhui , Xu Qing , Yang Hongling , Li Yizheng , Guo Ying , Kong Fanmei , Li Sishen , Zhao Yan
Published: November 2024

Background: Sulfur (S) is a vital element for the normal growth and development of plants, performing crucial biological functions in various life processes. Methods: This study investigated thirteen S utilization efficiency (SUE)-related traits at the seedling stage of wheat using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population. The quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were mapped by genetic mapping. Thirteen S utilization efficiency-related traits were investigated under two hydroponic culture trials with low S (0.1S, T1), moderate S (0.5S, T2), and high S (1.5S, T3) levels, using the wheat RILs. Results: A total of 170 QTLs for the thirteen traits in different treatment environments were identified. Among them, 89, 103, and 101 QTLs were found in T1, T2, and T3, respectively. A total of 63 QTLs were found in the multiple treatment environments, the other 107 QTLs only being detected in a single treatment environment. Among them, thirteen relatively high-frequency QTLs (RHF-QTLs) and eleven QTL clusters were found. Five (QSh-1D, QRn-1D, QSdw-1D, QTdw-1D, and QTsc-1D) and six (QRdw-6A, QSdw-6A, QTdw-6A, QRsc-6A, QSsc-6A, and QTsc-6A) RHF-QTLs were identified in QTL clusters C3 and C10, respectively. Conclusion: These thirteen RHF-QTLs and eleven QTL clusters are expected to apply to the molecular marker-assisted selection (MAS) of wheat.
Special Issue Introduction: Human Microbiota—Current Updates on Pathogenetic Mechanisms and Methodological Advances
Authors: D’Argenio Valeria
Published: November 2024

Advances in sequencing technologies have made it possible to study microbial communities at a previously unimaginable resolution [...]
Identification of Candidate Genes for Sebum Deposition in Pekin Ducks Using Genome-Wide Association Studies
Authors: Lv Xueze , Shi Bozhi , Ren Haiyuan , Yang Weifang , Qu Lujiang , Obianwuna Uchechukwu , Lyu Xueqi
Published: November 2024

Background: Sebum deposition is a vital trait influencing meat quality and production efficiency in Pekin ducks. Providing insights into the genetic basis of fat deposition could help improve breeding strategies aimed at producing high-quality meat ducks. This study aimed to identify the genetic mechanisms and lipid metabolism pathways regulating subcutaneous and intramuscular fat deposition in two Pekin duck strains: Nankou No. 1 and Jingdian. Methods: A total of 72 male ducks, Nankou No. 1 (n = 36) and Jingdian (n = 36), were raised under controlled conditions for 42 days. On days 28, 35, and 42, ducks from each group were selected and slaughtered, and their subcutaneous and liver tissues were collected to analyze lipid enzyme activities. On day 42, additional ducks from each strain were slaughtered and evaluated for carcass performance, as well as intramuscular and sebum yield. Genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) was conducted in the Nankou No. 1 strain. Conclusion: Our results showed statistically significant differences in intramuscular and subcutaneous fat yield between the two strains, with Nankou No. 1 exhibiting a higher yield than Jingdian (p < 0.05). The GWAS results identified 96 significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), associated with sebum deposition. Functional annotation identified ALDH7A1 as a key candidate gene involved in lipid metabolism and fat storage regulation in Pekin ducks, Nankou No. 1 strain. Enzyme activity assays in liver and subcutaneous tissues revealed breed-specific differences in lipid metabolism, aligning with genetic findings. The activities of the lipid enzymes changed over time, suggesting changes in the developmental stages. The results on fat yield and enzymatic activities further align with molecular findings from the GWAS, which identified variations in lipid metabolism pathways. These results highlight genetic markers and biochemical pathways related to fat deposition in Pekin ducks, offering new insights for selective breeding programs aimed at optimizing fat content in meat production. Further research is needed to clarify the specific role of ALDH7A1 in lipid metabolism and its potential to enhance fat deposition traits in poultry.
Self-Perception of Physical Problems in Patients with Non-Vascular Type of Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Palomo-Toucedo Inmaculada C. , Reina-Bueno María , Munuera-Martínez Pedro V. , Vázquez-Bautista María del Carmen , Domínguez-Maldonado Gabriel , Leon-Larios Fatima
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Ehlers–Danlos syndrome is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. Ehlers–Danlos syndrome is associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, including chronic pain, severe fatigue, and a range of physical and psychological complications. This study aims to identify, in patients with non-vascular type of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, the most common physical symptoms, the impact of these symptoms on daily life, and individuals’ perceptions of their health. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study based on content analysis was employed, reviewing 24 individual interviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of participants’ experiences. The study was conducted in accordance with the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) guidelines, which include a 32-item checklist commonly used in qualitative research. Results: Four main themes were identified: (1) Common physical symptoms, (2) Impact on daily life, (3) Impact on social and family relationships, and (4) Health perception and well-being. Conclusions: The analysis of the interviews reveals that individuals with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome face significant physical and emotional challenges. Physical symptoms, particularly chronic pain, fatigue, and joint issues, severely impact their ability to lead a normal life. These symptoms, along with perceived uncertainty and stress, contribute to a reduced quality of life, affecting both physical and emotional well-being.
The Development of Algorithms for Individual Ranges of Body Temperature and Oxygen Saturation in Healthy and Frail Individuals
Authors: Sund Levander Märta , Grodzinsky Ewa
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Individual habitual conditions entail a risk during the interpretation of vital parameters. We developed algorithms for calculating, validating, and interpreting individual normal ranges of body temperature and oxygen saturation. Methods: In total, 70 healthy individuals aged 27 to 80 and 52 frail individuals aged 60 to 100 were included. Data on individual conditions comprised age, gender, physical ability, chronic disease, and medication. Ear temperature and oxygen saturation were measured for five mornings before the participants got out of bed and consumed medicine, food, or drink. Results: The range for body temperature was 34.3 °C to 37.7 °C, with a variation of 0.7 °C ± 0.4 °C. The variation in minimum and maximum temperatures was 2.4 °C vs. 2.7 °C and 2.9 °C vs. 2.3 °C in healthy and frail subjects, respectively. The range for oxygen saturation was 85% to 99% in healthy individuals and 75% to 100% in frail individuals. The variation between minimum and maximum oxygen saturation was 13% vs. 25% and 4% vs. 17% in healthy and frail subjects, respectively. Conclusions: To promote the implementation of precision medicine in clinical practice, it is necessary to interpret body temperature and oxygen saturation based on individual habitual conditions. Interpreting deviations from an individual’s normal ranges allows healthcare professionals to provide necessary treatment without delay, which can be decisive in preventing further deterioration.
Patient and Healthcare Provider Satisfaction with Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs): A Systematic Review
Authors: Fernández-Collantes Alba , Martín-Vázquez Cristian , Martínez-Fernández María Cristina
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in three women worldwide has experienced physical or sexual violence. In countries like the US, UK, and Canada, victims are often cared for by sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs), who are trained to conduct forensic exams and offer emotional support, reducing the risk of retraumatisation. Thus, the aim of this study was to describe the satisfaction of patients and healthcare professionals with SANEs’ services. Methods: A systematic review was conducted by searching the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, selecting studies that focused on patient and healthcare provider satisfaction with SANEs’ services. Results: In total, nine studies meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were analysed. Of these, 55% focused on healthcare provider satisfaction, while 44% examined the experiences of sexual assault survivors. All studies examining patient satisfaction with the care provided by SANE professionals (n = 3) reported satisfaction levels exceeding 90%, with many users highly recommending their services. Conclusions: The role of sexual assault nurse examiners is crucial in providing victims with a safe environment and quality of care, and in reducing the risk of retraumatisation.
The PEPCK and FBP Genes Regulate Gluconeogenesis Metabolism in Grape Berries in Response to Light Intensity
Authors: Yang Zhongyi , Shen Leyi , Hu Lingling , Cai Yingjian , Zheng Qianqian , Wu Yueyan
Published: November 2024

Sugar–acid metabolism is a key factor in determining grape quality, and gluconeogenesis is one of the important sugar–acid metabolic pathways. To explore the effects of reduced light intensity on grape berry quality and gluconeogenesis under greenhouse cultivation, we used the ‘Shine Muscat’ cultivar. With decreasing light intensity, the photosynthetic activity in the grape leaves decreased, resulting in significant reductions in the net photosynthetic rate, transpiration intensity, and stomatal conductance while reducing organic matter accumulation, thus significantly affecting subsequent grape berry quality and gluconeogenesis. Shade treatment inhibited the accumulation of glucose, fructose, and soluble solids in the grape berries but promoted the accumulation of malic acid, tartaric acid, and citric acid. PEPCK and FBP are the key genes underlying the effect of light intensity on gluconeogenesis in grape berries, with PEPCK being involved mainly in tartaric acid metabolism and FBP being involved in malic acid, citric acid, and tartaric acid metabolism.
Operational Costs and Analysis of Agronomic Characteristics on Cannabidiol and Cannabigerol Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) in Hydroponic Soilless Greenhouse and Field Cultivation
Authors: Bafort Françoise , Libault Arthur , Maron Etienne , Kohnen Stephan , Ancion Nicolas , Jijakli M. Haïssam
Published: November 2024

In Europe, industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is currently cultivated primarily for its fibers and seeds due to regulatory restrictions on flower use, although the flowers present untapped valorization potential. This study assesses the economic viability of cultivating hemp for its inflorescences and examines the quality impact of different cultivation methods by testing two varieties, Santhica 27 and Félina 32, across distinct growth environments. The cultivation systems tested include greenhouse-based soilless setup and open-field production. Within the greenhouse, the effects of an ethylene-based growth regulator, applied during the vegetative stage, on plant morphology and cannabinoid concentrations were assessed at three dosage levels (7.5, 15, and 30 µL L−1). The results showed a dose-dependent reduction in shoot height, lasting 21 to 28 days post-treatment before diminishing. Comparable total cannabigerol (CBG) levels were achieved with Santhica 27 in both field conditions and at the 30 µL L−1 ethylene dose in the greenhouse, while total cannabidiol (CBD) levels in Félina 32 were higher in the field than in the greenhouse. Overall, greenhouse cultivation yielded significantly greater cannabinoid production per square meter due to increased inflorescence biomass and the potential for multiple harvest cycles. However, operating costs for greenhouse cultivation are at least 13 to 15 times higher than those of open-field production. Economic analysis suggests that optimizing greenhouse cultivation techniques and reducing labor requirements at harvest could help mitigate these costs, enhancing the economic feasibility of greenhouse-based hemp flower production.
Effect of Biostimulators as Foliar Application on Eggplant “Black Beauty Cultivar” Growth, Yield and Chemical Composition in Multi-Stressed Loamy Sand Soil
Authors: Haggag Ismail A. A. , Moustafa Mahmoud M. I. , Salama Atef N. , Fadl Mohamed E. , Drosos Marios , Scopa Antonio , Abd El-Raheem Ahmed. A. S.
Published: November 2024

This study examines the potential of natural biostimulants to mitigate environmental stress and enhance growth, yield, and quality in eggplant (Solanum melongena L., cv. Black Beauty) grown in loamy sand soil. Eggplants were treated with foliar applications of ascorbic acid (AA) at 300 mg/L, chitosan (Ch) at 200 mg/L, and moringa oil (MO) at 1000 mg/L as natural biostimulants. Results indicated significant increases in plant height, branch number, leaf chlorophyll content, fruit count, and total yield per feddan (0.42 ha) with the AA, Ch, and MO treatments compared to untreated controls. Treated plants also displayed enhanced fruit characteristics, including increased weight, diameter, length, and size. Biochemical analyses revealed elevated levels of fruit dry matter, ascorbic acid content, total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. Untreated plants, in contrast, showed significantly lower values across all measured parameters, indicating higher susceptibility to environmental stressors and reduced growth and fruit quality. These findings underscore the effectiveness of AA, Ch, and MO as biostimulants in enhancing eggplant growth, yield, and fruit quality under loamy sand conditions. Furthermore, the use of biostimulants could be extended to other crops, offering a sustainable approach to improving food security and sustainability in agricultural practices.
Co-Creation in the Development of Digital Therapeutics: A Narrative Review
Authors: Mimoso Inês , Figueiredo Teodora , Midão Luís , Carrilho Joana , Henriques Diogo Videira , Alves Sara , Duarte Natália , Bessa Maria João , Facal David , Felpete Alba , Fidalgo José María , Costa Elísio
Published: November 2024

Digital therapeutics (DTx) are transforming healthcare delivery through personalised, evidence-based interventions that offer a cost-effective approach to health management. However, their widespread adoption faces significant barriers including privacy concerns, usability issues, and integration challenges within healthcare systems. This review assesses the current evidence on DTx, with a particular focus on the role of co-creation in enhancing design and usability. A narrative review was conducted to identify studies exploring co-creation in DTx development. Three studies were selected for in-depth analysis, demonstrating that co-creation processes significantly improve the usability and effectiveness of DTx interventions. Findings underscore challenges in DTx implementation, including complex regulatory processes, digital inequality, high development costs, and difficulties in integrating with existing healthcare systems. Despite the existence of discrete examples of co-creation in DTx and its acknowledged value in the healthcare domain, systematic research in this field remains markedly limited. Future studies should prioritise establishing best practises for co-creation, with particular emphasis on methods to enhance data privacy and security, standardisation protocols, and patient engagement strategies to optimise DTx adoption and effectiveness. This review contributes to the growing body of literature on DTx by highlighting the potential of co-creation while also identifying critical areas for future research.
Green Villages, the Pandemic, and the Future of California Urbanism
Authors: Davids René
Published: November 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of housing in controlling the spread of the virus was limited, as policies primarily focused on short-term measures such as lockdowns and social distancing. As the pandemic recedes, a shift has occurred towards restructuring the environment to confront future health crises better. This research thoroughly evaluates existing literature and housing complexes. It recommends that future projects prioritize several key features: ample exposure to natural environments, opportunities for growing food, encouragement of casual social interactions, inclusion of communal spaces, and provision of areas for exercise to help reduce the risks of contagion and alleviate the mental health impacts on residents. Based on research conducted during and after the pandemic, current recommendations for housing often provide generalized suggestions or propose ideal layouts through diagrams. This approach can be unrealistic from both spatial and economic perspectives and fails to inspire or stimulate creativity. This paper, by contrast, reviews and analyzes historical housing projects while critically examining three case studies that have the potential to inspire future designs. The goal is to provide officials, architects, and stakeholders with a series of practical possibilities and guidelines that contribute to the post-COVID home design process by making it more health-conscious and fostering the creation of new types of neighborhoods that can significantly impact the planning of cities in California.
Changes in Gene Expression Related to Atopic Dermatitis in Mothers and Infants Following VOC Exposure
Authors: Kim Seung Hwan , Yu So Yeon , Choo Jeong Hyeop , Kim Jin Kyeong , Kim Jihyun , Ahn Kangmo , Hwang Seung Yong
Published: November 2024

Environmental pollutants, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are associated with various diseases, including atopic dermatitis (AD). However, despite numerous studies on AD, there is a lack of research on the impact of various environmental exposures on mothers and infants. This study, therefore, investigated the effects of maternal exposure to specific VOCs (toluene, xylene, and benzene) on the expression of AD-related genes in mothers and their infants. RNA expression levels and DNA methylation patterns were analyzed to examine the correlation between environmental exposures and AD. A multi-omics approach integrating gene expression and methylation data was additionally employed to gain a broader understanding of the genetic impact of VOC exposure. Network analysis revealed significant changes in gene expression associated with AD. For example, maternal exposure to toluene resulted in the upregulation of AQP10, which is linked to keratinocyte dysfunction, and in infants, the genes IL31RA and CCL20 were notably affected, both of which play critical roles in immune response and skin barrier function. In mothers exposed to xylene, the histamine receptor gene HRH1 was identified as a key player in influencing AD through its role in skin barrier recovery, while infants exhibited consistent network responses with upregulation of IL31RA and downregulation of TIGIT, reflecting a shared response across different xylene isomers. Interestingly, infants exposed to xylene isomers displayed nearly identical gene network patterns, suggesting developmental resistance to diverse environmental factors. No significant gene changes were identified in the benzene-exposed group. These findings suggest that exposure to specific VOCs may have different effects on gene expression related to AD, highlighting the complexity of how environmental factors contribute to disease development.