bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fe3O4-Nanoparticle-Modified Sensor for the Detection of Dopamine, Uric Acid and Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Gaya Eduardo , Menendez Nieves , Mazario Eva , Herrasti Pilar
Published: January 2023

A simple electrochemical sensor based on electrochemically synthesized Fe3O4 nanoparticles was constructed by an ink with the nanoparticles, isopropanol, NAFION and carbon Vulcan to detect dopamine, uric acid and ascorbic acid. The electrocatalytic activity of the nanoparticles for the oxidation of the analyte molecules was examined by means of cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry. The parameters controlling the performance of the sensor were optimized, such as the amount of Fe3O4 nanoparticles (1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10 mg), amount of binder (5, 10, 15 µL) and carbon Vulcan in the ink (4, 6, 8 mg). The temperature was maintained at 25 °C and the pH was 7.5 with buffer phosphate. The optimal sensor conditions were 8 mg magnetite, 4 mg carbon Vulcan and 5 µL of NAFION@ 117. The calibration curves for the three analytes were determined separately, obtaining linear ranges of 10–100, 20–160 and 1050–2300 µM and limits of detection of 4.5, 14 and 95 µM for dopamine, uric acid and ascorbic acid, respectively. This electrochemical sensor has also shown significant sensitivity and selectivity without interference from the three analyte molecules presented simultaneously in solution. This sensor was applied for the detection of these molecules in real samples.
Dietary Intake by Toddlers and Preschool Children: Preliminary Results from a Michigan Cohort
Authors: JaBaay Natalie R. , Nel Nikita H. , Comstock Sarah S.
Published: January 2023

Identifying the consumption patterns of toddlers and preschool children is critical to evaluating their potential for healthy development and future heath trajectories. The purpose of this longitudinal cohort study was to describe breastfeeding, nutritional trends, and dietary diversity in 12-to-36-month-old children in a Michigan cohort. Mothers completed surveys when their children were 12 (n = 44), 24 (n = 46) and 36 months old (n = 32). Mothers reported their child’s dietary intake in the past 24 h and intake of specific foods in the past year. About 95% of 12-to-24-month-old children in the study population were ever breastfed, with 70% consuming human milk at 6 months and just over 40% at 12 months. Over 90% of participants gave their child a bottle since birth, with 75% providing human milk and 69% giving formula. Consumption of juice significantly increased with age and ~55% of the 36-month-old children consumed juice. A larger proportion of children consumed soda, chocolate, and candy as they aged. Though dietary diversity numerically increased with child age, this did not reach significance. Gut microbiota composition and structure was not associated with diet diversity. This research lays the foundation for future work to determine which nutritional interventions may be most effective in this population.
Association between Family Environment and Adolescents’ Sexual Adaptability: Based on the Latent Profile Analysis of Personality Traits
Authors: Zhao Rui , Lv Jun , Gao Yan , Li Yuyan , Shi Huijing , Zhang Junguo , Wu Junqing , Wang Ling
Published: January 2023

Sexual adaptation plays an important role in psychosexual health. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between the family environment and sexual adaptability among adolescents with different personality traits. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Shanghai and Shanxi province. A total of 1106 participants aged 14–19 was surveyed in 2019, including 519 boys and 587 girls. Univariate analyses and mixed regression models were performed to assess the association. Girls had a significantly lower average score of sexual self-adaptation compared to boys (4.01 ± 0.77 vs. 4.32 ± 0.64, p < 0.001). We found that the family environment did not impact boys’ sexual adaptation in different personality groups. For girls in a balanced group, expressiveness factors improved their sexual adaptability (p < 0.05), intellectual–cultural orientation and organization promoted social adaptability (p < 0.05) and active–recreational orientation and control decreased their social adaptability (p < 0.05). In the high-neuroticism group, cohesion facilitated sexual control (p < 0.05), while conflict and organization reduced sexual control ability, and active–recreational orientation decreased sexual adaptation (p < 0.05). No factors associated with the family environment were found to influence sexual adaptability in groups with low neuroticism and high ratings in other personality factors. Compared with boys, girls demonstrated lower sexual self-adaptability, and their overall sexual adaptability was more susceptible to the family environment.
Vertebral Body Tethering in AIS Management—A Preliminary Report
Authors: Courvoisier Aurélien , Baroncini Alice , Jeandel Clément , Barra Clémentine , Lefevre Yan , Solla Federico , Gouron Richard , Métaizeau Jean-Damien , Maximin Marie-Christine , Cunin Vincent
Published: January 2023

Vertebral Body Tethering (VBT) is a recently developed surgical technique for the treatment of progressive and severe scoliosis in patients with significant growth potential. It has been used since the first exploratory series, which showed encouraging results on the progressive correction of the major curves. This study reports on a retrospective series of 85 patients extracted from a French cohort, with a follow-up at a minimum of two years after a VBT with recent screws-and-tether constructs. The major and compensatory curves were measured pre-operatively, at the 1st standing X-ray, at 1 year, and at the last available follow-up. The complications were also analyzed. A significant improvement was observed in the curve magnitude after surgery. Thanks to growth modulation, both the main and the secondary curves continued to progress over time. Both the thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis remained stable over time. Overcorrection occurred in 11% of the cases. Tether breakage was observed in 2% of the cases and pulmonary complications in 3% of the cases. VBT is an effective technique for the management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients with residual growth potential. VBT opens an era of a more subtle and patient-specific surgical management of AIS that considers parameters such as flexibility and growth.
Fathers’ Experiences of Caring for a Child with a Chronic Illness: A Systematic Review
Authors: Spurr Shelley , Danford Cynthia A. , Roberts Karyn J. , Sheppard-LeMoine Debbie , Machado Silva-Rodrigues Fernanda , Darezzo Rodrigues Nunes Michelle , Darmofal Leslie , Ersig Anne L. , Foster Mandie , Giambra Barbara , Lerret Stacee , Polfuss Michele , Smith Lindsay , Somanadhan Suja
Published: January 2023

The prevalence of children living with chronic health conditions is increasing worldwide and can disrupt family roles, relationships, function, and parental involvement in family caregiving. The purpose of this systematic review was to explore fathers’ experiences and involvement in caring for a child with a chronic condition. Systematic searches using seven databases were conducted. Study criteria included (1) peer-reviewed original research in English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese, (2) children less than 19 years of age with a chronic condition, (3) fathers (biological or guardian) as direct informants, and (4) outcomes addressing fathers’ experience, perceptions, and/or involvement in the child’s care. Data were synthesized from ten articles reflecting eight separate studies that utilized quantitative designs. Three areas of focus were identified: Family Functioning, Father’s Psychological Health, and Need for Support. Data suggested increased involvement from the father in caring for their child with a chronic condition was associated with improved family functioning, increased anxiety and distress, decreased self-esteem, and increased need for support. This review revealed a paucity of data regarding fathers’ experiences and involvement when caring for a child with a chronic condition, with that available primarily from developed countries. Rigorous empirical studies are needed to deepen understanding of how fathers are involved in the care of their child with a chronic condition.
Apparent Temperature Modifies the Effects of Air Pollution on Cardiovascular Disease Mortality in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Olutola Bukola G. , Mwase Nandi S. , Shirinde Joyce , Wichmann Janine
Published: January 2023

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the top cause of mortality and a main contributor to disability globally. The evidence so far is varied on whether cold or heat modifies the CVD effects of air pollution. Weather conditions and air pollution sources and levels are different in different countries. Studies in low-and middle-income countries are lacking. Mortality data were obtained from Statistics South Africa. Air pollution and meteorological data were obtained from the South African Weather Service. A time-stratified case–crossover epidemiological design was applied. The association between air pollutants (PM10, NO2 and SO2) and CVD mortality was investigated using conditional logistic regression models. Susceptibility by sex and age groups was investigated. In total, 54,356 CVD deaths were included in the 10-year study. The daily PM10, NO2 and SO2 levels exceeded the daily WHO guidelines on 463, 421 and 8 days of the 3652 days, respectively. Higher air pollution risks were observed in this study compared to those reported in meta-analyses. In general, the elderly and females seemed to be vulnerable to air pollutants, especially at high and moderate apparent temperature levels. Harvesting effects were observed at longer lags. The results can be used to develop an early warning system for the city.
Automatic Evaluation of Neural Network Training Results
Authors: Barinov Roman , Gai Vasiliy , Kuznetsov George , Golubenko Vladimir
Published: January 2023

This article is dedicated to solving the problem of an insufficient degree of automation of artificial neural network training. Despite the availability of a large number of libraries for training neural networks, machine learning engineers often have to manually control the training process to detect overfitting or underfitting. This article considers the task of automatically estimating neural network training results through an analysis of learning curves. Such analysis allows one to determine one of three possible states of the training process: overfitting, underfitting, and optimal training. We propose several algorithms for extracting feature descriptions from learning curves using mathematical statistics. Further state classification is performed using classical machine learning models. The proposed automatic estimation model serves to improve the degree of automation of neural network training and interpretation of its results, while also taking a step toward constructing self-training models. In most cases when the training process of neural networks leads to overfitting, the developed model determines its onset ahead of the early stopping method by 3–5 epochs.
High pO2 Flux Growth and Characterization of NdNiO3 Crystals
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Wang Shilei , Liu Chao , Fan Chuanyan , Han Lu , Li Feiyu , Chang Tieyan , Chen Yu-Sheng , Wang Shanpeng , Tao Xutang , Zhang Junjie
Published: January 2023

Single crystals of the perovskite nickelate NdNiO3 with dimensions of up to 50 μm on edge have been successfully grown using the flux method at a temperature of 400 °C and oxygen pressure of 200 bar. The crystals were investigated by a combination of techniques, including high-resolution synchrotron X-ray single-crystal and powder diffraction and physical property measurements such as magnetic susceptibility and resistivity. Resistivity measurements revealed a metal-insulator transition (MIT) at TMIT~180 K with apparent thermal hysteresis; however, no superlattice peaks or peak splitting below TMIT, which corresponds to a structural transition from Pbnm to P21/n, was observed. The successful growth of NdNiO3 crystals at relatively low temperatures and oxygen pressure provides an alternative approach for preparing single crystals of interesting perovskites such as RNiO3 (R = Sm-Lu) and parent phases of superconducting square planar nickelates.
Hot Deformation Behavior and Microstructure Evolution of Ti–6Cr–5Mo–5V–4Al–1Nb Alloy
Authors: Chen Haodong , Qin Hanzhao , Qin Fengying , Li Bo , Yu Yang , Li Chenglin
Published: January 2023

This study looked into the thermo-mechanical properties and the recrystallization mechanisms of the Ti–5.5Cr–5Mo–5V-4Al–1Nb alloy (wt.%, Ti−65541). Hot compression experiments were conducted at two phase regions (740~950 °C) and strain rates from 0.001 to 1 s−1. The compressive strain–stress curves were corrected by the adiabatic heating effect. The Arrhenius model was established and provided a reliable prediction of the value of stress with a 0.992 correlation coefficient. The constructed processing map demonstrated that when the temperature rose and the strain rate fell, the power dissipation efficiency (η) showed a rising trend. By utilizing electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), the microstructural evolution and deformation process were analyzed. It was possible to witness both continuous dynamic recrystallization (cDRX) and discontinuous dynamic recrystallization (dDRX). The dynamic recovery (DRV) and dDRX eventually replaced dDRX while η decreased. Moreover, the deformation band (DB) impeded re-crystallization in the low η area. This study can supply a relatively reliable processing interval for the new Ti−65541 alloy.
Low-Cycle Fatigue Behavior of Hot V-Bent Structural Components Made of AZ31B Wrought Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Mader Florian , Nischler Anton , Huber Otto
Published: January 2023

Recent studies have shown the change of microstructure during hot-bending in uniaxial specimens made of AZ31B alloy. They also investigated the influence of the changed microstructure on the quasi-static and cyclic material behavior under uniaxial stress states. However, studies on the fatigue behavior of hot-bent structural components in which a multiaxial inhomogeneous stress state occurs are still lacking. For this purpose, a novel hot-bent V-shaped specimen was developed, of which three different variants, each with a different bending radius, were fabricated and investigated. Microstructural analyses reveal that band-like accumulations of twinned grains are already formed in the compressively stressed area of the specimen during the bending process. Force-controlled low-cycle fatigue tests were performed to investigate the twinning evolution after cyclic loading. Subsequent microstructure analyses show that bands of twinned grains are no longer visible but also that the occurrence of twins is evenly distributed. Due to the specimen shape, the specimens are subjected to a multiaxial stress state. During LCF tests, the strain was measured using 3D digital image correlation and fatigue life was modeled successfully with the application of the concept of highly strained volume.
Intrinsic Instability of Perovskite Solar Cells: The Role of a Hole-Blocking Layer
Authors: Lago Nicolò , Polo Andrea , Reddy Sathy Harshavardhan , Di Carlo Aldo , Cester Andrea
Published: January 2023

Among the emerging photovoltaic technologies, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are the most promising ones with efficiencies close to crystalline silicon. However, stability and reliability issues are still a limit for future applications of this technology. This manuscript investigates the intrinsic instability of PSCs by focusing on the role of the hole-blocking layer (HBL). PSCs were fabricated employing SnOX and bathocuproine (BCP) as an HBL, and their performances were monitored in time. The two architectures show initial similar performances; hence, they are good candidates for comparison, but they feature different instability phenomena. It is shown that cells fabricated with SnOX present larger instabilities mainly ascribable to open-circuit voltage fluctuations (variations in the short-circuit current are negligible). In contrast, the BCP-based cells are more stable with a marginal increase in their power conversion efficiency that follows the increase in the short-circuit current (while the open-circuit voltage does not change).
Patellar Resurfacing in Total Knee Arthroplasty, a Never-Ending Controversy; Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Adam Răzvan , Moldovan Cosmin , Tudorache Sorin , Hârșovescu Tudor , Orban Carmen , Pogărășteanu Mark , Rusu Elena
Published: January 2023

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains a lifesaving procedure for advanced gonarthrosis. However, patella resurfacing (PR) in TKA remains a controversial procedure, leading to extensive discussions amongst orthopedic surgeons, regarding its indications and results. Based on these premises, we present a clinical case of a 70-year-old Caucasian woman admitted for pain, swelling and limitation of left knee joint mobility. Her medical history records an Ahlback stage IV gonarthrosis with simultaneous bilateral TKA surgery performed in different hospital, when two NexGen cemented total prostheses were implanted with patellar resurfacing being performed only on the right side. Our clinical (American Knee Society Score, Lonner and Feller scales) and radiological evaluations (CT scan and Xray) revealed left patellar arthrosis and a slight lateral subluxation of the patella. The chosen treatment plan was revision surgery for PR and patellar prosthesis with a cemented patellar component, cross-linked polyethylene, no 32 NexGen model with 8.5 mm thickness. The immediate and distant postoperative evolution was favorable. Extensive literature review shows that, at present, PR remains at surgeon’s discretion mainly based on his previous results. Therefore, we believe there is an imperative need to develop high quality studies based on accurate scientific evidence to universally establish valid guidelines for PR in TKA.
An Updated Evaluation of Intrathecal IgG Synthesis Markers in Relation to Oligoclonal Bands
Authors: Boufidou Fotini , Vakrakou Aigli G. , Anagnostouli Maria , Patas Kostas , Paraskevas Georgios , Chatzipanagiotou Stylianos , Stefanis Leonidas , Evangelopoulos Maria-Eleftheria
Published: January 2023

The aim was to evaluate the performance of the latest quantitative marker for intrathecal IgG synthesis and to compare it with other established markers used for the same purpose. We retrospectively applied Auer’s and Reiber’s intrathecal IgG synthesis formulae in a cohort of 372 patients under investigation for central nervous system demyelination who had undergone lumbar puncture and oligoclonal bands (OCBs) detection for demonstrating intrathecal IgG synthesis. A ROC analysis revealed Auer’s formula had lower sensitivity (68%) compared to Reiber’s formula (83%) and IgG index (89%), in our cohort of patients that exhibited normal to mildly elevated albumin quotients (4.48 ± 3.93). By excluding possible sources of errors, we assume that Auer’s formula is less sensitive than other established tools for the “prediction” of the detection of OCBs in routine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analyses due to the mathematical model used. Given the ability of Reiber’s hyperbolic formula to describe the blood–CSF IgG distribution across a wide range of blood–brain barrier functionality, its use and the use of similar formulae are recommended for the discrimination between CNS-derived and blood-derived molecules in clinical laboratories.
Demographic and Social Patterns of the Mean Values of Inflammatory Markers in U.S. Adults: A 2009–2016 NHANES Analysis
Authors: Calixte Rose , Ye Zachary , Haq Raisa , Aladhamy Salwa , Camacho-Rivera Marlene
Published: January 2023

Several studies have reported on the negative implications of elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and elevated platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) levels associated with outcomes in many surgical and medical conditions, including cancer. In order to use the inflammatory markers NLR and PLR as prognostic factors in disease, a normal value in disease-free individuals must be identified first. This study aims (1) to establish mean values of various inflammatory markers using a healthy and nationally representative U.S. adult population and (2) to explore heterogeneity in the mean values by sociodemographic and behavioral risk factors to better specify cutoff points accordingly. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) of aggregated cross-sectional data collected from 2009 to 2016 was analyzed; data extracted included markers of systemic inflammation and demographic variables. We excluded participants who were under 20 years old or had a history of an inflammatory disease such as arthritis or gout. Adjusted linear regression models were used to examine the associations between demographic/behavioral characteristics and neutrophil counts, platelet counts, lymphocyte counts, as well as NLR and PLR values. The national weighted average NLR value is 2.16 and the national weighted average PLR value is 121.31. The national weighted average PLR value for non-Hispanic Whites is 123.12 (121.13–125.11), for non-Hispanic Blacks it is 119.77 (117.49–122.06), for Hispanic people it is 116.33 (114.69–117.97), and for participants of other races it is 119.84 (116.88–122.81). Non-Hispanic Blacks and Blacks have significantly lower mean NLR values (1.78, 95% CI 1.74–1.83 and 2.10, 95% CI 2.04–2.16, respectively) as compared with that of non-Hispanic Whites (2.27, 95% CI 2.22–2.30, p < 0.0001). Subjects who reported a non-smoking history had significantly lower NLR values than subjects who reported any smoking history and higher PLR values than current smokers. This study provides preliminary data for demographic and behavioral effects on markers of inflammation, i.e., NLR and PLR, that have been associated with several chronic disease outcomes, suggesting that different cutoff points should be set according to social factors.
The Influence of Different Leadership Styles on the Entrepreneurial Process: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Baltazar Juliana , Franco Mário
Published: January 2023

Leadership has become a complex, difficult subject with various facets for organisations, as it involves challenges regarding the best style for leaders to adopt. This study aims to analyse how the different leadership styles, presented throughout the various stages of the entrepreneurial process (discovery, application, implementation, and growth), can influence this type of process in the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) context. To this end, qualitative research of an exploratory nature was undertaken, based on four Portuguese SMEs (case studies) from different sectors. Data were collected from interviews with leaders and followers in the four SMEs selected, as well as through documentary analysis. From the content analysis, the empirical evidence obtained leads to the conclusion that there is not just one leadership style followed by the SMEs analysed in the different stages of the entrepreneurial process. However, the transactional style of leadership was identified in two stages of that process: discovering the idea and implementing the idea. In the second stage of the entrepreneurial process, the application of the idea, a transformational style was identified, and at the final stage (growth), two leadership styles emerged: a participative style and a relational style. Therefore, the study contributes to advancing knowledge in the area by demonstrating how the style of leadership affects and influences not only the entrepreneurial process but also followers’ behaviour and attitudes. In addition, this study suggests that sometimes entrepreneurship and leadership are used as interchangeable terms in the entrepreneurial process.
Describing and Interpreting the Space of Classroom Learning in Problem-Solving-Based Mathematics Instruction: Variation as an Analytical Lens
Authors: Kassa Berie Getie , Ding Liping , Tamiru Alemayehu Bishaw
Published: January 2023

The field of mathematics education research has been promoting problem-solving-based mathematics instruction (PS-based MI) to afford opportunities to develop students’ conceptual understanding and problem-solving abilities in mathematics. Given its usefulness, there is still little knowledge in the field about how it can afford such opportunities in real classrooms. In this study, an attempt was made to make in-depth observations of such classrooms from the perspective of variation. We examined the differences in the space of learning provided by two lessons of the same teacher in two Ethiopian primary school classrooms. Based on the literature, we identified three key aspects for analysis: mathematical tasks, lesson structure and classroom interaction patterns. Our analysis showed that, even though both lessons focused on the same topic of solving linear inequalities, they were enacted differently. The lesson that employed a PS-based MI approach constituted a wider space of learning than the lesson employing a conventional approach. This study demonstrates the usefulness of our analytical approach for describing and documenting PS-based MI practice, and for qualitatively interpreting the differences in what is mathematically made available to learn. We suggest that it can provide guidelines for mathematics teachers to reflect upon and to enhance learning spaces in their own classrooms.
The Transactional Distance Theory and Distance Learning Contexts: Theory Integration, Research Gaps, and Future Agenda
Authors: Abuhassna Hassan , Alnawajha Samer
Published: January 2023

Moore established transactional distance theory (TDT) to grasp transactional distance in the context of distance learning. Research using TDT in distance, open, and online learning environments has been undertaken. However, there are information gaps about what constitutes progress, future directions, and research deficits pertaining to TDT in the context of distance education. This systematic literature review (SLR) used PRISMA to analyze 42 papers to close the knowledge gap. Currently, TDT research in distance learning integrates various theories and models; nevertheless, there is a movement toward acceptance models and how to incorporate more relevant theories within the framework of distance learning. Future studies should integrate other aspects such as student motivation, student acceptance of technology, and student preparedness and desire to utilize technology in learning environments. As most research samples students, a research gap involving instructors and heterogeneous groups is proposed. It is projected that quantitative research will predominate in the future, leaving qualitative and mixed approaches as areas of investigation. This review illuminates the developments, future agenda, and research needs pertaining to TDT in the context of distance learning. It might serve as a foundation for future study on TDT in the context of distance, open, and online education.
The Global Design Ranking: A Case Study of Design Awards Phenomenon
Authors: Chen Chun-Yuan , Lin Po-Hsien , Kang Yen-Yu , Lin Chih-Long
Published: January 2023

This study explored two issues: (1) could the number of design awards represent the design level of a country? (2) If the design award is not suitable as criterion, is there a more appropriate one(s)? Beginning with the phenomenon that use the number of design awards as a benchmark for evaluating national design capabilities, its rationality through objective data is examined. The research reviews the existing mechanisms and attempts to establish a more comprehensive one through expert interviews and questionnaires. Six criteria were identified: international activity, designers’ level, future trends, historical impact, lifestyle taste, and environment standards. When these criteria are used to evaluate a country’s design level, the results are in line with the overall impression of design experts. Conversely, the framework based on the number of design awards leads to a significant gap. The results overturn the evaluation systems of design awards. In terms of academic contribution, through the establishment of a new mechanism, the lack of existing ones can be made up. In terms of practical implication, design stakeholders in various countries have a benchmark for inspection when trying to improve their design level or international reputation. The research provides reference for policy formulation and strategy development.
A Single-Pixel High-Precision Imaging Technique Based on a Discrete Zernike Transform for High-Efficiency Image Reconstructions
Authors: Zhang Shiyu , Lin Kai , Li Hongsong , Lu Lu
Published: January 2023

Single-pixel imaging (SPI) has attracted increasing attention in recent years because of its advantages in imaging systems. However, a low reconstruction quality and a long reconstruction time have hindered the development of SPI. Hence, in this study, we propose a Zernike SPI (ZSPI) technique to reduce the number of illumination patterns and reconstruction time whilst retaining robustness. First, the ZSPI technique was theoretically demonstrated. Phase-shifting Zernike moment projections were used to illuminate the target and an inverse Zernike transform was used to reconstruct the desired image. In order to prove the feasibility, numerical simulations were carried out with different sample ratios (SRs) ranging from 0.1 to 0.3; an acceptable reconstruction appeared at approximately 0.1. This result indicated that ZSPI could obtain satisfactory reconstruction results at low SRs. Further simulation and physical experiments were compared with different reconstruction algorithms, including noniterative, linear iterative, and nonlinear iterative methods under speckle modulation patterns at a sample of 0.1 in terms of different targets. The results revealed that ZSPI had a higher imaging quality and required less imaging time, particularly for low-frequency targets. The method presented in this study has advantages for the high-efficiency imaging of low-frequency targets, which can provide a new solution for the SPI method.
Visual Three-Dimensional Reconstruction Based on Spatiotemporal Analysis Method
Authors: Meng Xiaoliang , Sun Fuzhen , Zhang Liye , Fang Chao , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: January 2023

To accurately reconstruct the three-dimensional (3D) surface of dynamic objects, we proposed a wrapped phase extraction method for spatiotemporal analysis based on 3D wavelet transform (WT). Our proposed method uses a 2D spatial fringe image combined with the time dimension and forms a 3D image sequence. The encoded fringe image sequence’s wrapped phase information was extracted by 3D WT and complex Morlet wavelet, and we improved the wrapped phase extraction’s accuracy by using the characteristics of spatiotemporal analysis and a multi-scale analysis of 3D WT, then we reconstructed the measured object by wrapped phase unwrapping and phase height transformation. Our simulation experiment results show that our proposed method can further filter the noise in the time dimension, and its accuracy is better than that of the one- (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) WT wrapped phase extraction method and the 3D Fourier transform wrapped phase extraction method because the reconstructed spherical crown’s RMSE value does not exceed 0.25 and the PVE value is less than 0.95. Our results show that the proposed method can be applied to the dynamic 3D reconstruction of a real human thoracic and abdominal surface, which fluctuates slowly with respiration movement, further verifying its effectiveness.
TCAD Device Modeling and Simulation Study of Organic Field Effect Transistor-Based pH Sensor with Tunable Sensitivity for Surpassing Nernst Limit
Authors: Majeed Lubna , Amin Syed Intekhab , Rasool Zuber , Bashir Ishrat , Kumar Naveen , Anand Sunny
Published: January 2023

A dual-gate organic field effect transistor (DG-OFET)-based pH sensor is proposed that will be able to detect the variations in the aqueous (electrolyte) medium. In this structure, a source-sided underlap technique with a dual-gate sensing approach has been used. The change in ON-current (ION) was observed due to parallel examination of electrolytes in two gates underlapping the region of the structure. For the evaluation of the sensitivity of DG-OFET, the change in the drain current was exploited for different pH and corresponding charge densities utilizing 2D physics-based numerical simulation. The simulation results were extracted with the help of the software package Silvaco TCAD-ATLAS. The simulated results display that the proposed DG-OFET shows significantly higher sensitivity for high-k dielectrics. The voltage sensitivity achieved by DG-OFET with SiO2 as a dielectric in our work is 217.53 mV/pH which surpasses the Nernst Limit nearly four times. However, using a high-k dielectric (Ta2O5) increases it further to 555.284 mV/pH which is more than nine times the Nernst Limit. The DG-OFET pH sensor has a lot of potential in the future for various flexible sensing applications due to its flexibility, being highly sensitive, biocompatible and low-cost.
A Short-Term Forecasting of Wind Power Outputs Based on Gradient Boosting Regression Tree Algorithms
Authors: Park Soyoung , Jung Solyoung , Lee Jaegul , Hur Jin
Published: January 2023

With growing interest in sustainability and net-zero emissions, there has been a global trend to integrate wind power into energy grids. However, challenges such as the intermittency of wind energy remain, which leads to a significant need for accurate wind-power forecasting. Therefore, this study focuses on creating a wind-power generation-forecasting model using a machine-learning algorithm. In this study, we used the gradient-boosting machine (GBM) algorithm to build a wind-power forecasting model. Time-series data with a 15 min interval from Jeju’s wind farms were applied to the model as input data. The short-term forecasting model trained by the same month with the test set turns out to have the best performance, with an NMAE value of 5.15%. Furthermore, the forecasting results were applied to Jeju’s power system to carry out a grid-security analysis. The improved accuracy of wind-power forecasting and its impact on the security of electrical grids in this study potentially contributes to greater integration of wind energy.
Active-Arm Bridge with Two-Channel DC Voltage Source for Comparison of High-Resistance Standards in 1:1 Ratio
Authors: Krawczyk Krystian , Lisowski Michał , Kampik Marian
Published: January 2023

In this paper, a guarded active-arm bridge for high-resistance standards with programmable two-channel source of DC voltage is described. Both channels of this source are controlled from a common reference voltage. This ensures a high stability of the voltage ratio of both source channels. The presented results of tests of this source show that its use in the active bridge is more advantageous than the use of the two independent DC voltage sources. The bridge allows high accuracy in the comparison of the high-resistance standards in 1:1 ratio. The current state of knowledge about active-arm bridges is presented, the basics of the bridge operation are given, the two-channel DC voltage source used in the bridge and its test results are described, the measurement process that does not require transposition of the compared resistance standards is described, sample measurement results, and a plan for further work are given. The bridge is used in the resistance standard calibration system at the Central Office of Measures (GUM), Poland, in the range from 100 MΩ to 100 TΩ.
Towards GreenPLM—Key Sustainable Indicators Selection and Assessment Method Development
Authors: Helman Joanna , Rosienkiewicz Maria , Cholewa Mariusz , Molasy Mateusz , Oleszek Sylwester
Published: January 2023

Regulations, depletion of natural resources and changing customer demands are putting pressure on manufacturing companies to consider environmental issues in the development of new products. Companies are using PLM systems to manage the product lifecycle, but the current generation of these systems is not adequately adapted to product sustainability issues. The research results presented in this article are intended to support two target groups: academia and industry. The main scientific objective is to provide a systematic method for selecting and evaluating sustainability indicators related to the various phases of automotive lifecycle management. The main application goal is to support the industry in its pursuit of greener development by identifying which sustainability indicators are relevant to each phase of the product lifecycle. As a result, the key green indicators related to the automotive industry in line with the GreenPLM concept are identified together with their assignment to the elements of the car’s beginning-of-life stages, as well as their potential data sources. This paper introduces the concept of GreenPLM and its future application possibilities.
Chemically and Physically Pretreated Straw in Moderate Conditions: Poor Correlation between Biogas Production and Commonly Used Biomass Characterization
Authors: Meenakshisundaram Shruthi , Calcagno Vincenzo , Ceballos Claire , Fayeulle Antoine , Léonard Estelle , Herledan Virginie , Krafft Jean-Marc , Millot Yannick , Liu Xiaojun , Jolivalt Claude , Pauss André
Published: January 2023

Straw is a substantial agricultural by-product for biogas production. Hydrolysis of straw is found to be a rate-limiting step during its anaerobic digestion and could be enhanced by pretreatment. In this paper, the effect of various combinations of particle size reduction, autoclaving, and low-level Fenton reaction was studied on straw for biogas production. Grinding of straw contributed to the maximum increase in the biomethane potential. Only Fenton or only the autoclave process improves the kinetics slightly but does not considerably improve the biomethane potential. Combining autoclaving and low-concentration Fenton pretreatment considerably improves the BMP values. Lignin content, CHNSO elemental analysis, Scanning Electronic Microscopy (SEM), Simon’s staining, infrared spectroscopy (DRIFT and ATR), Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and wide-angle X-ray diffraction analysis (WAXD) were used to characterize the physical and chemical changes of straw due to pretreatment. Results show a poor correlation between biogas production and the different physical and chemical biomass characteristics. It makes it difficult to explain the outcome of various pretreatment methods applied to biomass. Without further improvement and development of analytical techniques, the prediction of the biomethane potential of a feedstock with the aid of pretreatment can only be considered in case-by-case studies.
Evaluation of Soil Loss Tolerance and Tree Growth Features Based on Planting Ground Methods in the Alpine Center, Degraded Forestland in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Lee Kyeongcheol , Song Yeonggeun , Koo Haeun , Kim Hyeonhwa , Kweon Hyeongkeun , Koo Namin
Published: January 2023

The Jeongseon Alpine Center, a degraded forestland, has a very unique soil feature as it was filled with soil cut from the nearby area and has not yet been rehabilitated since the end of the 2018 Winter Olympics. Therefore, this study attempted to identify a way to establish a stable and efficient planting groundwork to successfully restore this distinctive region. Six different planting groundworks, control, biochar, leaf-mold, mulching, tillage, and polyacrylamide treatments were constructed in September 2020. Soil-related indices have been tracked while the growth and physiological responses of planted Pinus densiflora (Pd) and Larix kaempferi (Lk) seedlings were monitored until May 2022. Mulching had 2–4 times the average SWC when compared to the control. Simultaneously, there was the least variation in soil temperature change, and total soil loss was only 0.05 ton/ha. Similarly, the leaf-mold had a relatively high SWC, and soil fertility increased, while total soil loss was 6.37 tons/ha, indicating a high trend in line with biochar. The Pd leaf-mold had the highest in Amax, E, gs, and Jmax. Furthermore, following the leaf-mold, mulching showed the second-highest photosynthetic indices in general, and the height and DRC also demonstrated favorable results in the above two treatments. Mulching had 1.6 to 2.2 times higher than the control group in PIabs and PItotal, which represent photosynthetic vitality, so the impact on environmental stress was thought to be less than that of leaf-mold. The mulching of Lk showed the greatest growth and physiological responses, Nonetheless, the photosynthetic indices were rather low when compared to Pd, with no discernible differences across treatments. As a result, the considerable effect of the planting groundwork method could not be demonstrated. Therefore, in the case of Pd, the leaf-mold showed the best growth and physiological response. Nevertheless, in terms of soil temperature maintenance and soil loss for slope stability, mulching is assessed to be the most ideal planting groundwork method.
Characterization of a Potential Probiotic Strain in Koumiss
Authors: Zhao Hong-Zhe , Song Qian-Jin , Guo Hao , Liu Chun-Yu , Yang Chao , Li Xin , Wang Ya-Xin , Ma Zi-Peng , Wang Feng-Xue , Wen Yong-Jun
Published: January 2023

Koumiss is a traditional fermented dairy product in Inner Mongolia pastoral areas, which is deeply loved by the local people; however, there has been little research on the characteristics of probiotics. This study comprehensively explored the properties of potential probiotics in koumiss, combining in vitro assays and whole-genome sequencing. The biochemical identification and phylogenetic tree results showed that the branches of this strain were close to Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, indicating that the strain was L. paracasei. The agar diffusion assay showed that the strain could effectively inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. We have also identified the CHAP structural domain at the genomic level, which may be associated with the antibacterial activity of this strain. The strain was well tolerated in a simulated gastrointestinal environment, growing well at pH = 2.5, 0.3% bile salts, and 5% NaCl while exhibiting hydrophobicity, aggregation, and antioxidant properties. In vitro experiments and genome, levels showed that resistance (resistance genes) to the antibiotics used in this study was not present in this strain. In addition, we did not observe toxic effects in acute oral administration in mice, and no virulence genes were identified at the genomic level. Therefore, the strain has the potential for probiotic development.
Probiotics in the Sourdough Bread Fermentation: Current Status
Authors: Akamine Ingrid Teixeira , Mansoldo Felipe R. P. , Vermelho Alane Beatriz
Published: January 2023

Sourdough fermentation is an ancient technique to ferment cereal flour that improves bread quality, bringing nutritional and health benefits. The fermented dough has a complex microbiome composed mainly of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts. During fermentation, the production of metabolites and chemical reactions occur, giving the product unique characteristics and a high sensory quality. Mastery of fermentation allows adjustment of gluten levels, delaying starch digestibility, and increasing the bio-accessibility of vitamins and minerals. This review focuses on the main steps of sourdough fermentation, the microorganisms involved, and advances in bread production with functional properties. The impact of probiotics on human health, the metabolites produced, and the main microbial enzymes used in the bakery industry are also discussed.
Protein-Based High Internal Phase Pickering Emulsions: A Review of Their Fabrication, Composition and Future Perspectives in the Food Industry
Authors: Zhang Minghao , Li Xiang , Zhou Li , Chen Weilin , Marchioni Eric
Published: January 2023

Protein-based high internal phase Pickering emulsions (HIPEs) are emulsions using protein particles as a stabilizer in which the volume fraction of the dispersed phase exceeds 74%. Stabilizers are irreversibly adsorbed at the interface of the oil phase and water phase to maintain the droplet structure. Protein-based HIPEs have shown great potential for a variety of fields, including foods, due to the wide range of materials, simple preparation, and good biocompatibility. This review introduces the preparation routes of protein-based HIPEs and summarizes and classifies the preparation methods of protein stabilizers according to their formation mechanism. Further outlined are the types and properties of protein stabilizers used in the present studies, the composition of the oil phase, the encapsulating substances, and the properties of the constituted protein-based HIPEs. Finally, future development of protein-based HIPEs was explored, such as the development of protein-based stabilizers, the improvement of emulsification technology, and the quality control of stabilizers and protein-based HIPEs.
The Characterization of Dry Fermented Sausages under the “Chorizo Zamorano” Quality Label: The Application of an Alternative Statistical Approach
Authors: Plaza Javier , Ávila-Zarza Carmelo , Vivar-Quintana Ana María , Revilla Isabel
Published: January 2023

The characterization of quality brand meat products, such as “Chorizo Zamorano” dry fermented sausages, involves a wide range of data which makes it necessary to use alternative statistical methodologies. In this study, the feasibility of the Categorical Principal Components Analysis as a multivariate non-linear technique for the characterization of “Chorizo Zamorano” was assessed. The data analyzed were those of eight commercial brands covered by the quality mark over an eight-year period (2013–2020) and included parameters of the physicochemical composition and organoleptic properties of the product. The results showed that “Chorizo Zamorano” has an average moisture content (28.28%), high protein (38.38%) and fat (51.05%) contents, and a very low carbohydrate concentration (1.52%). Results showed that the fat and protein content and the sensory parameters related to external and internal odor appeared to be the studied variables with the greatest influence on the classification of the products according to their quality.
Impact of Solubilized Substances on the Techno-Functional, Pasting and Rheological Properties of Ultrasound-Modified Rice, Tef, Corn and Quinoa Flours
Authors: Vela Antonio J. , Villanueva Marina , Náthia-Neves Grazielle , Ronda Felicidad
Published: January 2023

The modification of flours by ultrasound (US) treatments requires excess water to suspend the sample to be treated, which must be removed after treatment to recover the ultrasonicated flour. The aim of this study was to determine the influence that the water removal method has on the final characteristics of US-treated gluten-free flours (rice, brown tef, corn and quinoa). US treatment parameters were constant, and two water removal methods were studied: freeze-drying and centrifugation + drying. The elimination of water by centrifugation resulted in the loss of solubilized compounds from the treated flours, which led to important differences between the final characteristics of US-treated flours. Ultrasonication resulted in the reduction of flours’ particle size and modification of their color parameters. Techno-functional properties were modified by US treatment, where the water removal method was more influential in whole grain samples (brown tef and quinoa). Few differences were found in thermal properties among pairs of US-treated samples, indicative that the effect caused to starch was mainly attributed to ultrasonication conditions than to the drying method. The water removal method markedly influenced the pasting properties of US-treated flours, resulting in lower profiles when freeze-drying was applied and higher profiles when flours were retrieved by centrifugation. Gels made with tef, corn and quinoa presented reduced tan(δ)₁ values after sonication, while gels made with rice did not show any modification. The water removal method is a decisive step in US treatments, defining the final characteristics of the treated matter, and having a great influence in the modification attributed to ultrasonication.