bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Synthesis Method and Electrode Geometry on GHG-Sensing Properties of 5%Gd-Doped SnO2
Authors: Simion Cristian Eugen , Mihalcea Catalina Gabriela , Iacoban Alexandra Corina , Dinu Ion Viorel , Predoi Daniela , Vlaicu Ioana Dorina , Florea Ovidiu Gabriel , Stanoiu Adelina
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the influence of synthesis methods and electrode geometry on the physico-chemical properties of 5%Gd-doped SnO2. Two distinct synthesis routes, co-precipitation and hydrothermal growth, were employed, resulting in powders denoted as SnO2: Gd 5%-CP and SnO2: Gd 5%-HT. Morpho-structural and textural analyses reveal a uniform morphology consisting of quasi-spherical nanoparticles with dimensions of ~6 nm and mesoporosity for CP and a non-uniform morphology with larger nanoparticles of ~42 nm, with irregular shapes and macroporosity for the HT sample, respectively. The powders were deposited onto alumina substrates equipped with platinum interdigital electrodes with alternative gaps of 200 μm and 100 μm. The back-side heater allows for variation in the temperature of the layer. Sensing properties assessed under in-field-like atmospheres simulated by a computer-controlled Gas Mixing System reveal higher sensitivity to methane compared to carbon dioxide. Although the sensor signals did not differ quantitatively, they exhibited distinct saturation tendencies with an increasing methane concentration, attributed to the morpho-structure and porosity induced by the synthesis method. Differentiation was achieved by varying the interdigital gap of the electrodes, highlighting different sensor signals and conduction mechanisms, determined by the specific size of the crystallites.
Study of rs7759938, rs314280, and rs314276 Polymorphisms of LIN28B in Relation to Age at Menarche in Girls of Greek Descent
Authors: Tsinopoulou Vasiliki Rengina , Bacopoulou Flora , Fidani Liana , Dimitriadis Dimitrios , Gerou Spyridon , Christoforidis Athanasios
Published: August 2024

Background: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in LIN28B, critical regulators of female growth and puberty, have been linked to age at menarche. Methods: We assessed the association of rs7759938, rs314280, and rs314276 with menarcheal age in girls of Greek descent. We reviewed the records of 248 girls who had their first menstruation before 18 years and who attended the Greek Departments of Pediatric Endocrinology from January 2021 to July 2023. Genotyping was performed by standard DNA-based methods. Association analyses involved both parametric and non-parametric tests. Results: The average age of breast and pubic hair development was 9.95 years, and the age at menarche was 11.55 years. Menarche occurred ≤11 years (mean 10.24 years) in 108 girls (43.5%) and >11 years (mean 12.55 years) in 140 (56.5%). The girls’ menarcheal age correlated significantly with that of their mothers (average 12.1 years, p-value < 0.0001, Spearman’s r 0.350). The dominant rs7759938(TT) genotype was the most common (55.2%), followed by the dominant rs314276(CC) (53.2%) and dominant rs314280(TT) (14.5%) genotypes. Conclusions: There was no association between age at menarche and any of the polymorphism genotypes/alleles or between genotypes/alleles and birth weight, gestational week, mode of delivery, and maternal age at menarche. Future large sample studies are warranted to confirm these results.
Hospital and Patient Characteristics Associated with Neonatal Blood Stream Infection in Inpatient Care: Insights from the 2019 HCUP KID Database
Authors: Samawi Michael , Shah Gulzar H. , Kimsey Linda , Waterfield Kristie C. , Hendrix Susan
Published: August 2024

Background: This study explores the associations between pediatric adverse events (PAEs) and both hospital and patient characteristics within the inpatient hospital setting, specifically focusing on Neonatal Blood Stream Infection (NBSI) as defined by pediatric quality indicators (PDIs) from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). This research aims to answer questions regarding the relationship between hospital characteristics and patient demographics with the occurrence of NBSI. Methods: This study utilized discharge data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) Kids’ Inpatient Databases (KID) for the year 2019. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were employed to analyze patient-level encounters of NBSIs. The analysis examined various factors including hospital size, location, and teaching status, as well as patient-specific variables such as gender, age, race, service lines, payment sources, and major operating room procedures. Results: The results indicate that Public and Private not-for-profit hospitals showed significantly lower odds of experiencing NBSIs when compared to Private investor-owned hospitals, as did smaller, rural, and nonteaching hospitals when compared to large hospitals. Additionally, individual factors such as gender, age, race, service lines, payment sources, and types of major operating room procedures were found to have varying levels of significance in relation to NBSI. Conclusions: This study provides important insights into PAEs within the inpatient hospital setting, particularly focusing on NBSIs within the PDI framework. The findings highlight critical areas for the development of evidence-based interventions and guidelines, which are essential for clinicians and policymakers. Ultimately, this study contributes to the understanding and improvement of pediatric patient safety by emphasizing the necessity for targeted strategies to mitigate the risk of NBSI.
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Newborn Screening Program Using Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing in One Maternity Hospital in Southern Belgium
Authors: Dangouloff Tamara , Hovhannesyan Kristine , Mashhadizadeh Davood , Minner Frederic , Mni Myriam , Helou Laura , Piazzon Flavia , Palmeira Leonor , Boemer François , Servais Laurent
Published: August 2024

Purpose: Genomic newborn screening programs are emerging worldwide. With the support of the local pediatric team of Liege, Belgium, we developed a panel of 405 genes that are associated with 165 early-onset, treatable diseases with the goal of creating a newborn screening test using targeted next-generation sequencing for all early-onset, treatable, and serious conditions. Methods: A process was developed that informed the future parents about the project and collected their consent during a face-to-face discussion with a trained investigator. The first baby was screened on 1 September 2022. The main objective of the study was to test the feasibility and the acceptability of targeted sequencing at birth as a first-tier newborn screening approach to detect treatable genetic conditions or genetic conditions for which a pre-symptomatic or early symptomatic clinical trial is available. Results: As of 20 June 2024, the parents of 4425 children had been offered the test; 4005 accepted (90.5%) and 420 refused (9.5%). The main reasons for refusal were the research nature of the project and the misunderstanding of what constitutes genetic conditions. Conclusions: These data demonstrate the high acceptability of genomic newborn screening in a properly informed population.
Unveiling the Psychological Consequences of Illness Perception in Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis: A Parent–Child Study
Authors: Aloni Roy , Asher Gaya , Ben-Ari Amichai , Menascu Shay
Published: August 2024

Background: Previous research has emphasized the significant role of illness perception in chronic diseases, including Multiple Sclerosis. Limited research has been conducted on exploring illness perception in Pediatric Onset Multiple Sclerosis (POMS), parental illness perception, and the impact of differences in their illness perceptions on the emotional well-being of the child. Method: This study included 65 dyads of children aged 10–17 and their parents, divided into the following two groups: (I) 32 dyads of children with POMS and their parents; and (II) 33 dyads of healthy children and their parents. Results: Overall, 73.1% and 43.8% of the children with POMS met the criteria for probable anxiety and depression, respectively, compared to 27.3% and 0% of the healthy children. Differences were found between the dimensions of illness perception in the POMS children and their parents, in the areas of consequences, personal control, identity, and control factors. Multinomial Logistic Regression indicated that differences in child–parent illness perception increased the likelihood of comorbid anxiety and depression by 37%. Discussion: These findings underscore the importance of alignment between children with POMS and their parents in illness perception. Healthcare providers should prioritize interventions that address illness perceptions and be mindful of the potential impact on depression and anxiety comorbidity.
Impact of the Choice of Diagnostic Criteria and Growth Reference on the Prevalence of Extrauterine Growth Restriction in Extremely-Low-Birthweight Infants
Authors: González López Clara , Solís Sánchez Gonzalo , Fernández Colomer Belén , Mantecón Fernández Laura , Lareu Vidal Sonia , Fernández Castiñeira Sara , Rubio Granda Ana , Pérez Pérez Alicia , Suárez Rodríguez Marta
Published: August 2024

Background and objectives: Variable diagnostic criteria and growth charts have been used for extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR). The objective was to assess the prevalence and concordance of EUGR in extremely-low-birthweight (ELBW) infants with the most frequent diagnostic criteria and growth charts. Materials and methods: An observational, retrospective and multicenter study was conducted from 2011 to 2020 including ELBW infants from the Spanish SEN1500 Network. EUGR prevalence was calculated at discharge using different definitions: cross-sectional (anthropometry less than the 10th centile), longitudinal (decrease of more than 1 SD from birth to discharge), “true” cross-sectional and “true” longitudinal (using the criteria previously described, excluding infants small for gestational age at birth). Concordance among Fenton, Olsen and INTERGROWTH-21st was assessed with Fleiss’ Kappa coefficient. Results: The prevalence of EUGR was variable with the different definitions and growth references studied in the 7914 ELBW infants included. Overall, it was higher with Fenton for all the EUGR criteria studied by weight and length. The agreement among growth charts was substantial (κ > 0.6) for all the definitions except for longitudinal EUGR by weight (moderate, κ = 0.578). Conclusions: The prevalence of EUGR was variable in our cohort with the different diagnostic criteria and growth charts. The agreement among charts was good for all the definitions of EUGR except longitudinal EUGR by weight.
Association of Maternal Air Pollution Exposure and Infant Lung Function Is Modified by Genetic Propensity to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Vilcins Dwan , Lee Wen Ray , Pham Cindy , Tanner Sam , Knibbs Luke D. , Burgner David , Blake Tamara L. , Mansell Toby , Ponsonby Anne-Louise , Sly Peter D. ,   Barwon Infant Study Investigator Group
Published: August 2024

Background and objective: The association between air pollution and poor respiratory health outcomes is well established. Children are particularly at risk from air pollution, especially during the prenatal period as their organs and systems are still undergoing crucial development. This study investigated maternal exposure to air pollution during pregnancy and oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and infant lung function at 4 weeks of age. Methods: Data from the Barwon Infant Study were available for 314 infants. The exposure to NO2 and PM2.5 were estimated. Infant lung function (4 weeks) was measured by multiple-breath washout. Glycoprotein acetyls (GlycA) (36 weeks prenatal), cord blood, and OS biomarkers were measured in maternal urine (28 weeks). A genetic pathway score for OS (gPFSox) was calculated. Linear regression was used and potential modification by the OS genotype was tested. Results: There was no relationship between maternal exposure to air pollution and infant lung function, or with GlycA or OS during pregnancy. We found an association in children with a genetic propensity to OS between NO2 and a lower functional residual capacity (FRC) (β = −5.3 mls, 95% CI (−9.3, −1.3), p = 0.01) and lung clearance index (LCI) score (β = 0.46 turnovers, (95% CI 0.10, 0.82), p = 0.01). Conclusion: High prenatal exposure to ambient NO2 is associated with a lower FRC and a higher LCI score in infants with a genetic propensity to oxidative stress. There was no relationship between maternal exposure to air pollution with maternal and cord blood inflammation or OS biomarkers.
Opening Pandora’s Box: Reconstruction of Catches in Southeast-South Brazil Revealed Several Threatened Elasmobranch Species under One Umbrella Name
Authors: Schroeder Rafael , Cardoso Luís G. , Fischer Luciano G. , Mourato Bruno L. , Monteiro Danielle S. , Sant’Ana Rodrigo
Published: August 2024

Endangered sharks and rays usually often lack basic information specific to conservation, such as population size. Previous studies have reconstructed shark and ray catch statistics between 1950 and 2019 for the southeast = south of Brazil, but lacking detail at the species level, because the catches were grouped by family, genus or even common name (e.g., skates and rays, Dasyatidae, Rhinobatos, Sphyrnidae, Squatinidae). In this study, we used proportions between species from scientific observer fishing trips and Dirichlet regression modelling to reclassify these categories. This model is a multivariate extension of beta regression and enables the modeling of asymmetric and heteroscedastic compositional data, allowing multinomial data to be obtained in a more informative way. The reconstruction of catches for unclassified data showed a massive dominance of the Squatinidae family until the late 1970s, when catches showed signs of decline. At the same time, the rays of the “emplastro” family showed a progressive increase from 2006 onwards. However, this scenario changed after the reclassification. The category Squatinidae was maintained almost exclusively by S. guggenheim, while 16 categories of species were observed within “emplastro” rays, many of which fall into “endangered”, “vulnerable” and “critically endangered” criteria. These reconstructed series provide a more reliable scenario of the catches of thirty elasmobranch species in the southeast and south of Brazil and serve as baseline information for understanding the conservation status of these species.
Insights on the In Vitro Wound Healing Effects of Sedum telephium L. Leaf Juice
Authors: Cappellucci Giorgio , Paganelli Alessia , Ceccarelli Pier Luca , Miraldi Elisabetta , Biagi Marco
Published: August 2024

Chronic wounds remain a significant clinical challenge, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic agents. Sedum telephium L. (syn. Hylotelephium telephium (L.) H. Ohba) fresh leaf juice, known for its traditional medicinal uses, was evaluated to assess its efficacy and its mechanism in promoting wound healing in vitro. Fresh leaves were collected and processed to obtain the juice, which was analyzed for polyphenols, flavonoids, polysaccharides, and proteins content. Key bioactive compounds were identified, including complex polysaccharides (2.47%), proteins (0.16%) and kaempferol and quercetin tri- di- and mono-glycosides, 0.04%, expressed as quercetin equivalent. The juice and its polysaccharidic fraction were tested on human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and fibroblasts (HFF-1) to assess cell viability, wound closure, and the production of growth factors and pro-collagen I. Our results indicated that the whole juice significantly enhanced wound closure in both cell types: +33% in keratinocytes compared to control, at 24 h, with a marked increase in fibroblast growth factor (FGF) (+21% compared to control) and LAP(TGF-β1) (+60% compared to control) and +30% in fibroblasts compared to control at 24 h, without a significant upregulation of pro-collagen I expression. The polysaccharidic fraction alone showed limited efficacy (no efficacy in keratinocytes and +20% in wound closure compared to control at 24 h in fibroblast), emphasizing the importance of the complete phytocomplex. These findings suggest that Sedum telephium L. represents a promising candidate in the setting of skin regeneration and repair.
A Bioregionalization of South Africa Based on Beetles (Coleoptera)
Authors: Summersgill Amy K. , Procheş Şerban , Ramdhani Syd , Perera Sandun J.
Published: August 2024

Beetles represent the most diverse group of living organisms on Earth, yet there has been very little in the way of using beetle distributions in bioregionalization exercises. Here, we combine several small data sets for beetle distributions in South Africa to produce a list of morphospecies and to analyze their presence within twenty geographic units spanning the entire country. We find a diversity of fine scale assemblages in the east, but also a disjunction between the western arid/winter-rainfall and eastern summer-rainfall half of the country, which is in line with several previous studies based on diverse groups of animals and plants. We recommend the use of the increasing citizen science data sets in studying biogeographic patterns in groups such as beetles, which have so far received limited attention.
Limited Physical Functioning in United States Adults with Arthritis: Findings from the 2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey
Authors: Axon David R.
Published: August 2024

There is little published research on limited physical functioning in United States (US) adults with arthritis. The objective of this cross-sectional 2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) database study was to investigate the variables associated with limited physical functioning in US adults with arthritis. Logistic regression tested the associations of predisposing, enabling, and need variables with the dependent variable (limited physical functioning). This study included 5102 US adults with arthritis, reflecting an estimated weighted population of 64,136,870 US adults with arthritis. In the final multivariable logistic regression model, age ≥ 70 and ages 60–69 (vs. 18–49 years), female (vs. male) sex, having quite a bit/extreme or moderate (vs. little) pain, and having 6+ or 4–5 (vs. 0–1) comorbid conditions were all associated with higher odds of the person stating they had limited physical functioning. Whereas high school or less (vs. more than high school), being employed (vs. unemployed), being married (vs. not married), having excellent/very good or good (vs. poor) general health, and exercise (vs. no exercise) were each associated with lower odds of the person reporting they had limited physical functioning. Future work may be considered to explore these variables in greater detail.
Evaluating Immunologic and Illness Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Children Aged ≥ 5 Years, in a Multisite Longitudinal Cohort
Authors: Porter Cynthia , Lyski Zoe L. , Uhrlaub Jennifer L. , Ellingson Katherine D. , Jeddy Zuha , Gwynn Lisa , Rivers Patrick , Sprissler Ryan , Hegmann Kurt T. , Coughlin Melissa M. , Fowlkes Ashley L. , Hollister James , LeClair Lindsay , Mak Josephine , Beitel Shawn C. , Fuller Sammantha , Zheng Pearl Q. , Vaughan Molly , Rai Ramona P. , Grant Lauren , Newes-Adeyi Gabriella , Yoo Young M. , Olsho Lauren , Burgess Jefferey L. , Caban-Martinez Alberto J. , Yoon Sarang K. , Britton Amadea , Gaglani Manjusha , Phillips Andrew L. , Thiese Matthew S. , Hagen Melissa Briggs , Jones Jefferson M. , Lutrick Karen
Published: August 2024

Hybrid immunity, as a result of infection and vaccination to SARS-CoV-2, has been well studied in adults but limited evidence is available in children. We evaluated the antibody responses to primary SARS-CoV-2 infection among vaccinated and unvaccinated children aged ≥ 5 years. Methods: A longitudinal cohort study of children aged ≥ 5 was conducted during August 2021–August 2022, at sites in Arizona, Texas, Utah, and Florida. Children submitted weekly nasal swabs for PCR testing and provided sera 14–59 days after PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Antibodies were measured by ELISA against the receptor-binding domain (RBD) and S2 domain of ancestral Spike (WA1), in addition to Omicron (BA.2) RBD, following infection in children, with and without prior monovalent ancestral mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. Results: Among the 257 participants aged 5 to 18 years, 166 (65%) had received at least two mRNA COVID-19 vaccine doses ≥ 14 days prior to infection. Of these, 53 occurred during Delta predominance, with 37 (70%) unvaccinated at the time of infection. The remaining 204 infections occurred during Omicron predominance, with 53 (26%) participants unvaccinated. After adjusting for weight, age, symptomatic infection, and gender, significantly higher mean RBD AUC values were observed among the vaccinated group compared to the unvaccinated group for both WA1 and Omicron (p < 0.0001). A smaller percentage of vaccinated children reported fever during illness, with 55 (33%) reporting fever compared to 44 (48%) unvaccinated children reporting fever (p = 0.021). Conclusions: Children with vaccine-induced immunity at the time of SARS-CoV-2 infection had higher antibody levels during convalescence and experienced less fever compared to unvaccinated children during infection.
Measuring and Comparing High School Teachers’ and Undergraduate Students’ Knowledge of Complex Systems
Authors: Xiang Lin , Mirakhur Zitsi , Pilny Andrew , Krall Rebecca
Published: August 2024

Complex systems (CSs) have garnered increasing attention in science education due to their prevalence in the natural world and their importance in addressing pressing issues such as climate change, pandemics, and biodiversity loss. However, the instruments for assessing one’s CS knowledge are limited, and the knowledge of CSs among in-service teachers remains underreported. Guided by the complexity framework, we launched a study to develop and validate a survey instrument for measuring the knowledge of CSs among high school teachers and undergraduate students, as well as delineating the contours of their knowledge. In this article, we present the development and validation of a Complex Systems Knowledge Survey (CSKS), and we use the survey to compare the CS knowledge among 252 high school teachers and 418 undergraduate students in the United States. Our key findings include that (1) both high school teachers and undergraduates exhibit relatively low knowledge of decentralization and stochasticity, (2) undergraduates, especially those in non-STEM majors, demonstrate moderate to low knowledge of emergence, (3) few teachers and undergraduates differentiate between complicated and complex systems, and (4) teachers and undergraduates recognize CS examples across natural and social systems. The implications of our findings are discussed.
Education Practices Mediated by Digital Technologies: Mobilization and Teachers’ Strategies in Primary and Secondary Schools in Germany
Authors: Arruda Eucidio Pimenta , Kerres Michael
Published: August 2024

This article presents the results of the research “post-pandemic education: understanding of analogic education and digital education from the perspective of educational institutions and teachers in Brazil and Germany”, whose main objective is to analyze how teachers and educational institutions mobilize and position themselves for the expansion of digital education practices. The following methods were used: documentary research with the German state secretariats of education, as well as documentary analysis of educational policies aimed at the implementation of digital information and communication technologies in compulsory education in Germany. We then proceeded to construct a large-scale survey to be answered by teachers of distinct levels of education. We contacted around 9400 compulsory education institutions in the three largest German states in terms of population. As a result, in general, teachers understand the importance of digital technologies in student education and demonstrate knowledge of the policies established by public agencies of the state. The mobilizations around digital pedagogical practices reveal the importance of considering teachers’ and students’ knowledge about technologies inside and outside the school context. The results allow us to understand the place that digital technologies occupy in the daily teaching routine.
European Green Deal, Energy Transition and Greenflation Paradox under Austrian Economics Analysis
Authors: García-Vaquero Martin , Daumann Frank , Sánchez-Bayón Antonio
Published: August 2024

Greenflation or inflation for green energy transition in Europe becomes a structural problem of new scarcity and poverty, under Austrian Economics analysis. The current European public agenda on the Green Deal and its fiscal and monetary policies are closer to coercive central planning, against the markets, economic calculus, and Mises’ theorem. In this paper, attention is paid to the green financial bubble and the European greenflation paradox: in order to achieve greater future social welfare, due to a looming climate risk, present wellbeing and wealth is being reduced, causing a real and ongoing risk of social impoverishment (to promote the SGD 13 on climate action, it is violated by SGD 1–3 on poverty and hunger and 7–12 on affordable energy, economic growth, sustainable communities, and production). According to the European Union data, the relations are explained between green transition and public policies (emissions, tax, debt, credit boom, etc.), GDP variations (real–nominal), and the increase of inflation and poverty. As many emissions are reduced, there is a decrease of GDP (once deflated) and GDP per capita, evidencing social deflation, which in turn means more widespread poverty and a reduction of the middle-class. Also, there is a risk of a green-bubble, as in the Great Recession of 2008 (but this time supported by the European Union) and possible stagflation (close to the 1970s). To analyze this problem generated by mainstream economics (econometric and normative interventionism), this research offers theoretical and methodological frameworks of mainline economics (positive explanations based on principles and empirical illustrations for complex social phenomena), especially the Austrian Economics and the New-Institutional Schools (Law and Economics, Public Choice, and Comparative Constitutional Economics).
CO2: An Underrecognized and Underappreciated Threat to Worker Safety during Construction Activity
Authors: McManus Thomas Neil
Published: August 2024

Many fatal inhalational accidents occurring during construction typically involving confined spaces and structures that confine the atmosphere continue to defy identification. Very little information is available, principally from accident summaries and government reports. Increasingly, these identify CO2 (carbon dioxide) as a probable cause. This article discusses situations identified in accident summaries and worldwide databases. CO2 lacks an odor and other means of identification without the use of monitoring instruments. Emissions typically involve exhaust gases; aerobic and anaerobic respiration in microbiological systems in wastewater and landfills; geological deposits capable of chemical reaction to produce CO2; and unintended discharge from pressurized systems. Emissions can occur continuously or abruptly subject to the type of system and conditions involved. Anaerobic systems that behave as shear-thinning, pseudoplastic, non-Newtonian fluids emit abruptly on the application of a shear force. A lethal concentration can develop almost instantaneously. Upon cessation of the stress, the ambient condition restores rapidly. Chemical and physical processes provide reservoirs for the storage of gas. Very limited methods are available for the prevention of these accidents because of the infrequency and unpredictability of the emission. Preventive measures include mandatory atmospheric monitoring and ventilation at all times, where hazardous conditions can develop, and sometimes the use of high-level respiratory protection.
On the Importance of Solar Radiation and Shading for the Alkali–Aggregate Reaction Prediction of Concrete Arch Dams
Authors: Leitão Noemi Schclar
Published: August 2024

The environmental conditions to which dams are exposed play a major role in dictating the progression and manifestation of the alkali–aggregate reaction (AAR). However, in the numerical thermal-mechanical simulation of AAR-affected dams, the solar radiation and its associated shadow effects have received little attention. The spatiotemporal distribution of the solar radiation incidence on the dam surfaces has often been addressed in a simplified way or has just been neglected. Yet, far less attention has been given to shadows cast by the dam’s own geometry or the slopes. The main reasons for these simplifications derive from the fact that contrary to other thermal loads, environmental actions vary in daily and annual cycles, with the added complication that solar radiation also depends on the orientation of the surface with respect to the Sun’s rays. In this way, a conventional thermal finite element code should be modified in order to deal with these two particular issues. Therefore, this article starts with the estimation of the solar radiation distribution by recourse to concepts of astronomy and computer graphics. Then, to illustrate the influence of the nonuniform temperature distribution on dam surfaces due to solar radiation and shading, the analysis of an AAR-affected arch dam is presented in this paper. A comparison of the AAR expansions computed on the dam with or without considering the solar radiation and shading is presented.
Different Responses of Terrestrial Carbon Fluxes to Environmental Changes in Cold Temperate Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Jiang Mihang , Liu Xinjie , Liu Liangyun
Published: August 2024

As the largest carbon reservoir within terrestrial ecosystems, forest ecosystems play a major role as carbon sinks in the global carbon cycle. There are still some uncertainties regarding the responses of different carbon fluxes to environmental changes in cold temperate climate forest ecosystems. Here, 14 cold temperate forest flux sites for at least ten years were investigated, including carbon fluxes and environmental variables such as temperature, precipitation, shortwave radiation, and vapor pressure deficit. By calculating the Spearman correlation coefficient, there was a congruence between photosynthetic productivity (i.e., gross primary productivity, GPP) and carbon sequestration (i.e., net ecosystem productivity, NEP) at thirteen forest sites, and at one forest site, GPP and NEP were decoupled. Annual GPP and NEP displayed a consistent trend when temperature and precipitation had significantly opposite trends and when temperature had a significantly positive correlation with VPD. But when VPD was significantly negatively correlated with both temperature and SW in spring and when temperature was negatively correlated with both SW and VPD in summer, a decoupling of GPP and NEP occurred. The impacts of various environmental factors on the annual carbon fluxes were calculated for each year and season using the path analysis method. At forest sites with consistent trends in GPP and NEP, annual, spring, and summer temperatures had significant positive correlations with GPP and ecosystem respiration (RE). While at the decoupled forest site, environmental factors had a stronger effect on RE, which then contributed to the observed decoupling of GPP and NEP. Finally, the Partial Least Squares method was used to analyze the relative contribution of each environmental factor to annual carbon fluxes. The results revealed that temperature and summer precipitation were the key environmental factors affecting forest ecosystems. This study provides important insights into the different responses of carbon fluxes in forest ecosystems undergoing environmental changes.
Characterization of Marigold Flower (Tagetes erecta) Extracts and Microcapsules: Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction and Subsequent Microencapsulation by Spray Drying
Authors: Oo Nilar , Shiekh Khursheed Ahmad , Jafari Saeid , Kijpatanasilp Isaya , Assatarakul Kitipong
Published: August 2024

Ultrasound-assisted extraction using response surface methodology was employed to extract marigold flower, resulting in a marigold flower extract (MFE) with elevated levels of total phenolic compounds (TPCs), total flavonoid content (TFC), total carotenoid content (TCC), and antioxidant activity, as assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, under conditions of 40 °C temperature, 15 min extraction time, and 68% ethanol concentration. The MFE was subsequently encapsulated using spray drying with 45% maltodextrin (MD) (MFE–MD; 1:1, 1:2) and 20% gum arabic (GA) (MFE–GA; 1:2, 1:3). The MD (1:2 ratio) sample showed the highest encapsulation yield, while the 45% MD (1:1 ratio) sample exhibited the highest encapsulation efficiency (p ≤ 0.05). Samples containing 45% MD (1:1 ratio) and 20% GA (1:2 ratio) had the highest moisture content, with the 45% MD (1:1 ratio) sample showing the lowest water activity (p > 0.05). These samples also displayed higher L* and a* values compared to the 20% GA samples, which had increased b* values (p ≤ 0.05). Micrographs of the 20% GA (1:3 ratio) and 45% MD (1:2 ratio) samples revealed spherical shapes with smooth surfaces. The 20% GA (1:2 ratio) microcapsules exhibited the highest total phenolic content (TPC) among the samples (p ≤ 0.05). Thus, ultrasound-enhanced extraction combined with response surface methodology proved effective in producing functional food ingredients from plants.
Contributions of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Produced by Lactic Acid Bacteria on Food Quality and Human Health: Current Applications and Future Prospects
Authors: Icer Mehmet Arif , Sarikaya Buse , Kocyigit Emine , Atabilen Büşra , Çelik Menşure Nur , Capasso Raffaele , Ağagündüz Duygu , Budán Ferenc
Published: August 2024

The need to increase food safety and improve human health has led to a worldwide increase in interest in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), produced by lactic acid bacteria (LABs). GABA, produced from glutamic acid in a reaction catalyzed by glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), is a four-carbon, non-protein amino acid that is increasingly used in the food industry to improve the safety/quality of foods. In addition to the possible positive effects of GABA, called a postbiotic, on neuroprotection, improving sleep quality, alleviating depression and relieving pain, the various health benefits of GABA-enriched foods such as antidiabetic, antihypertension, and anti-inflammatory effects are also being investigated. For all these reasons, it is not surprising that efforts to identify LAB strains with a high GABA productivity and to increase GABA production from LABs through genetic engineering to increase GABA yield are accelerating. However, GABA’s contributions to food safety/quality and human health have not yet been fully discussed in the literature. Therefore, this current review highlights the synthesis and food applications of GABA produced from LABs, discusses its health benefits such as, for example, alleviating drug withdrawal syndromes and regulating obesity and overeating. Still, other potential food and drug interactions (among others) remain unanswered questions to be elucidated in the future. Hence, this review paves the way toward further studies.
Effect of Iron Mineral Transformation on Long-Term Subsurface Hydrogen Storage—Results from Geochemical Modeling
Authors: Pathak Arkajyoti , Sharma Shikha
Published: August 2024

Large-scale subsurface hydrogen storage is critical for transitioning towards renewable, economically viable, and emission-free energy technologies. Although preliminary studies on geochemical interactions between different minerals, aqueous ions, and other dissolved gasses with H2 have helped partially quantify the degree of hydrogen loss in the subsurface, the long-term changes in abiotic hydrogen–brine–rock interactions are still not well understood due to variable rates of mineral dissolution/precipitation and redox transformations under different conditions of reservoirs. One of the potentially understudied aspects of these complex geochemical interactions is the role of iron on the redox interactions and subsequent impact on long-term (100 years) hydrogen cycling. The theoretical modeling conducted in this study indicates that the evolution of secondary iron-bearing minerals, such as siderite and magnetite, produced after H2-induced reductive dissolution of primary Fe3+-bearing phases can result in different degrees of hydrogen loss. Low dissolved Fe2+ activity (<10−4) in the formation water can govern the transformation of secondary siderite to magnetite within 100 years, eventually accelerating the H2 consumption through reductive dissolution. Quantitative modeling demonstrates that such secondary iron mineral transformations need to be studied to understand the long-term behavior of hydrogen in storage sites.
Comparative Analysis of Aeroshell 500 Oil Effects on Jet A and Diesel-Powered Aviation Microturbines
Authors: Cican Grigore , Mirea Radu , Căldărar Maria
Published: August 2024

This study aims to analyze the influence of adding Aeroshell 500 oil on physicochemical properties. It was found that the oil’s kinematic viscosity is much higher than that of diesel and Jet A, with a higher density and flash point as well. Elemental analysis revealed a higher carbon content and lower hydrogen content in Aeroshell oil compared to Jet A and diesel, with lower calorific power. Adding 5% oil increases the mixture viscosity, flash point, and density; decreases the calorific power; and increases the carbon content for both diesel and Jet A. In the second part, mathematical models determined the combustion temperatures for Jet A, diesel, Jet A plus 5% Aeroshell 500 oil, and diesel plus 5% Aeroshell 500 oil, based on an air excess from one to five. Elemental analysis determined the oxygen and air quantities for these mixtures and stoichiometric combustion reaction for CO2 and H2O. Regarding the CO2 quantity, adding 5% Aeroshell 500 to Jet A increases it from 3.143 kg to 3.159 kg for each kilogram of mixture burned in the stoichiometric reaction. Similarly, adding the oil to diesel in a 5% proportion increases the CO2 quantity from 3.175 to 3.190 in the stoichiometric reaction. Through experimentation with the Jet Cat P80 microturbine engine across four operating regimes, it was observed that the combustion chamber temperature and fuel flow rate are lower when using diesel with a 5% addition of Aeroshell 500 oil compared to Jet A with the same additive. However, the thrust is slightly higher with diesel + 5% Aeroshell 500 oil. Moreover, the specific fuel consumption is higher in regimes one and two for diesel + 5% Aeroshell 500 oil compared to Jet A + 5% Aeroshell 500 oil, while the differences are negligible in regimes three and four. At maximum operating conditions, the excess air was determined from the measured values, comparing the combustion chamber temperature with the calculated value, with a 7% error, extrapolating the results for the scenario when oil is not used. Also, during the testing campaign, the concentrations of CO and SO2 in the exhaust gas jet were measured, with higher concentrations of CO and SO2 observed for diesel compared to Jet A.
Deciphering the Complex Interplay of Long Noncoding RNAs and Aurora Kinases: Novel Insights into Breast Cancer Development and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Saadeldin Mona Kamal , Curigliano Giuseppe , Abdel-Aziz Amal Kamal
Published: August 2024

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer globally and presents an escalating problem and a huge burden on societies. Several strategies are implemented in clinics to treat patients and prevent disease incidence. Efforts to understand the underlying causes of disease emergence are pivotal, and the latest examination of human transcriptomic studies showed the involvement of the noncoding RNA regulatory molecules in influencing both pathological and physiological conditions. Several molecular mechanisms are involved in the process and collaborate to develop tumor plasticity and drug resistance. In this review, we highlight for the first time the interplay between long noncoding RNAs and Aurora kinases in breast cancer and review the latest advances in the field in an attempt to pave the way for a better understanding of the course of the disease and to delineate the targets for treatment strategies in the clinic.
Strategies to Reduce Pollutant Emissions in the Areas Surrounding Airports: Policy and Practice Implications
Authors: Corazza Maria Vittoria , Di Mascio Paola
Published: August 2024

Airport areas generate significant air pollution from both air and surface traffic. Policy makers often address this by considering single contributions, either from rubber-tired vehicles or aircraft, leading to an underestimation of the non-considered-mode’s impact. Similarly, literature on airport pollution often focuses on specific case studies, evaluating either surface or air traffic. Understanding the overlap of these contributions requires calculation of emissions from both traffic modes. This raises two research questions: which is the major contributor, and what mitigation measures can be applied? This paper addresses these questions through two Italian case studies. In the first, we estimated emissions from passenger cars, buses, and aircraft in a medium-sized airport representative of similar facilities across Italy and Europe, calculating emissions using COPERT for surface modes and ICAO methodologies for each LTO cycle. Results showed that aircraft emissions were significantly higher than those from surface vehicles. To address this, the second case study examined four mitigation measures at take-off and landing at another Italian airport, recalculating emissions via the same methodologies. The paper details the methodology process, presents results, and discusses the management of air-operations’ effects at urban airports within local mobility policies and practice, all within the research goal of advancing knowledge farther afield.
Portable Biogas Digester: A Review
Authors: Mapantsela Yolanda , Mukumba Patrick , Obileke KeChrist , Lethole Ndanduleni
Published: August 2024

To reduce and convert biodegradable waste into energy-rich biogas, anaerobic digestion technology is usually employed. Hence, this takes place inside the biogas digester. Studies have revealed that these digesters are designed and constructed using bricks, cement, and metal; often require a large footprint; and are bulky and expensive. The innovation of portable biogas digesters has come into the market to address these challenges. This present review provides an overview of the in-depth and comprehensive information on portable biogas digesters in the literature. Areas covered in the review include the modification of the biogas digester design, the need for a portable biogas digester, recent studies on the factors affecting the performance of portable biogas digesters, and specific assumptions taken into consideration for designing any portable biogas digester. Convincingly, portable biogas digesters appeal to small rural families because of their ease of operation, maintenance, and ability to save space. The material for the construction and comparison of the portable biogas digester with other designs and the economic feasibility of the system were also reviewed. Implications: The full-scale design, fabrication, and utilization of a portable biogas digester are viable but not widely employed compared to other designs. However, there is a lack of readily available information on the portable design of biogas digesters. This review presents various aspects relating to portable biogas digesters and the quality of biogas produced. Therefore, the review suits audiences in energy process design and engineers, energy researchers, academics, and economists.
Bio-Inspired Photoelectric Dual-Mode Sensor Based on Photonic Crystals for Human Motion Sensing and Monitoring
Authors: Zheng Wenxiang , Wang Zhibin , Zhang Mengnan , Niu Yanxin , Wu Yuchuan , Guo Pengxin , Zhang Niu , Meng Zihui , Murtaza Ghulam , Qiu Lili
Published: August 2024

Photoelectric dual-mode sensors, which respond to strain signal through photoelectric dual-signals, hold great promise as wearable sensors in human motion monitoring. In this work, a photoelectric dual-mode sensor based on photonic crystals hydrogel was developed for human joint motion detection. The optical signal of the sensor originated from the structural color of photonic crystals, which was achieved by tuning the polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres diameter. The reflective peak of the sensor, based on 250 nm PMMA PCs, shifted from 623 nm to 492 nm with 100% strain. Graphene was employed to enhance the electrical signal of the sensor, resulting in a conductivity increase from 9.33 × 10−4 S/m to 2 × 10−3 S/m with an increase in graphene from 0 to 8 mg·mL−1. Concurrently, the resistance of the hydrogel with 8 mg·mL−1 graphene increased from 160 kΩ to 485 kΩ with a gauge factor (GF) = 0.02 under 100% strain, while maintaining a good cyclic stability. The results of the sensing and monitoring of finger joint bending revealed a significant shift in the reflective peak of the photoelectric dual-mode sensor from 624 nm to 526 nm. Additionally, its resistance change rate was measured at 1.72 with a 90° bending angle. These findings suggest that the photoelectric dual-mode sensor had the capability to detect the strain signal with photoelectric dual-mode signals, and indicates its great potential for the sensing and monitoring of joint motion.
Genomic and Pathogenic Characterization of Akanthomyces muscarius Isolated from Living Mite Infesting Hazelnut Big Buds
Authors: Turco Silvia , Drais Mounira Inas , Rossini Luca , Di Sora Nicolò , Brugneti Federico , Speranza Stefano , Contarini Mario , Mazzaglia Angelo
Published: August 2024

The capability of entomopathogenic fungi to live as plant endophytes is well established. However, their presence in undiscovered environmental niches represents the beginning of a new challenging research journey. Recently, Akanthomyces muscarius (Ascomycota, Cordycipitaceae) (Petch) Spatafora, Kepler & B. Shrestha was isolated from hazelnut buds infested by the big bud mite pest Phytoptus avellanae Nalepa, which makes the buds swollen, reddish, and unable to further develop. Gall formation is known to be regulated by a consortium of microbes and mites, and to better understand the possible role of A. muscarius within the infested gall, its whole genome sequence was obtained using a hybrid approach of Illumina and Nanopore reads. The functional and comparative genomics analysis provided within this study may help answer questions related to the ecology and the entomopathogenicity of this fungus.