bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Human Nose as a Chemical Sensor in the Perception of Coffee Aroma: Individual Variability
Authors: Crnjar Roberto , Solari Paolo , Sollai Giorgia
Published: April 2023

The flavor of foods and beverages is generally composed of a mixture of volatile compounds, however not all the molecules that form an aroma are sensorially relevant. The odor-active compounds present in a mixture are different for each subject, both in quantitative and qualitative terms. This means that the ability of the human nose to act as a chemical sensor varies among individuals. In this study, we used the headspace of roasted coffee beans as a complex olfactory stimulus and, by means of the coupled Gas Chromatography-Olfactometry (GC-O) technique, the single components of coffee flavor were separated. Each subject, previously classified for his/her olfactory status (normosmic, hyposmic or anosmic) by means of the Sniffin’ Sticks battery (composed of Threshold, Discrimination and Identification subtests), had to identify and evaluate each smelled molecule. The results show that the individual ability to detect individual compounds during the GC-O experiments and the odor intensity reported during the sniffing of pen #10 (the pen of the identification test) containing coffee aroma were related to TDI olfactory status (based on the score obtained from the sum composed of Threshold, Discrimination and Identification scores). We also found that the number of total molecules and of molecules smelling of coffee is linearly related to the TDI olfactory score. Finally, the odor intensity reported when sniffing pen #10 containing coffee aroma is positively correlated with the number of molecules detected and the average intensity reported. In conclusion, our findings show that the human perception of both individual compounds and complex odors is strongly conditioned by the olfactory function of subjects.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in a Pediatric Patient with End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Popa Ionela-Loredana , Bălgrădean Mihaela , Costin Mariana , Bobircă Anca , Bologa Cristina , Armășelu Teodora , Bobircă Florin , Croitoru Anca
Published: April 2023

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinical and neuroimaging syndrome that can affect both children and adults and has variable etiology. It is clinically defined by headaches, consciousness disorders, seizures and visual disturbances. Early recognition (clinical and imaging) can lead to appropriate general measures to correct the underlying cause of PRES. In this paper, we report a case of PRES in an eight-year-old boy with bilateral renal hypoplasia and end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
New Insights into the Role of INSL-3 in the Development of Cryptorchidism
Authors: Lăptoiu Alma-Raluca , Spoială Elena-Lia , Stanciu Gabriela Dumitrita , Hanganu Elena , Lupu Vasile Valeriu , Ciongradi Carmen-Iulia , Gavrilovici Cristina
Published: April 2023

Cryptorchidism, defined as the failure of at least one or both testicles to descend into the scrotal pouches, is the most frequent (1.6–9% at birth, 1/20 males at birth) congenital anomaly encountered in newborn males, resulting in one of the most frequent causes of non-obstructive azoospermia in men. Similar to other congenital malformations, cryptorchidism is thought to be caused by endocrine and genetic factors, combined with maternal and environmental influences. The etiology of cryptorchidism is unknown, as it involves complex mechanisms aiming to control the testicular development and descent from their initial intra-abdominal location in scrotal pouches. The implication of insulin-like 3 (INSL-3) associated with its receptor (LGR8) is critical. Genetic analysis discloses functionally deleterious mutations in INSL3 and GREAT/LGR8 genes. In this literature review, we discuss and analyze the implication of INSL3 and the INSL3/LGR8 mutation in the occurrence of cryptorchidism in both human and animal models.
Prototype of an Emergency Response System Using IoT in a Fog Computing Environment
Authors: Ortiz-Garcés Iván , Andrade Roberto O. , Sanchez-Viteri Santiago , Villegas-Ch. William
Published: April 2023

Currently, the internet of things (IoT) is a technology entering various areas of society, such as transportation, agriculture, homes, smart buildings, power grids, etc. The internet of things has a wide variety of devices connected to the network, which can saturate the central links to cloud computing servers. IoT applications that are sensitive to response time are affected by the distance that data is sent to be processed for actions and results. This work aims to create a prototype application focused on emergency vehicles through a fog computing infrastructure. This technology makes it possible to reduce response times and send only the necessary data to cloud computing. The emergency vehicle contains a wireless device that sends periodic alert messages, known as an in-vehicle beacon. Beacon messages can be used to enable green traffic lights toward the destination. The prototype contains fog computing nodes interconnected as close to the vehicle as using the low-power whole area network protocol called a long-range wide area network. In the same way, fog computing nodes run a graphical user interface (GUI) application to manage the nodes. In addition, a comparison is made between fog computing and cloud computing, considering the response time of these technologies.
Parapharyngeal Metastasis of Papillary Carcinoma of Thyroid Gland: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Campagnoli Massimo , Masnaghetti Davide , Rosa Maria Silvia , Paganelli Edoardo , Garzaro Massimiliano , Aluffi Valletti Paolo
Published: April 2023

Papillary carcinoma is the most frequently encountered differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Usually, metastasis occurs along lymphatic pathways in the central compartment and along the jugular chain. Nevertheless, lymph node metastasis in the parapharyngeal space (PS) is a rare but possible event. In fact, a lymphatic pathway has been identified that connects the upper pole of the thyroid and the PS. We describe the case of a 45-year-old man with a two-month history of a right neck mass. He underwent a complete diagnostic path that highlighted the presence of a parapharyngeal mass associated with the presence of a thyroid nodule suspected to be malignant. The patient underwent surgery (thyroidectomy and removal of the PS mass that was found to be a metastatic node of papillary thyroid carcinoma). The aim of this case is to underline the importance of detecting these kinds of lesions. Nodal metastasis in PS from thyroid cancer is a rare occurrence that is not easily detectable by a clinical examination until the metastasis reaches a considerable dimension. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) permit early identification, but unfortunately, these are not usually employed as a first-level imaging technique in patients with thyroid cancer. The treatment of choice is surgery with a transcervical approach that allows for better control of the disease and of the anatomical structures. Non-surgical treatments are usually reserved for patients with advanced disease, with satisfactory results.
Diagnostic Value of Neutrophil CD64 in Sepsis Patients in the Intensive Care Unit: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Pham Huy Minh , Nguyen Duy Ly Minh , Duong Minh Cuong , Tran Linh Thanh , Pham Thao Thi Ngoc
Published: April 2023

Little is known about the role of neutrophil CD64 (nCD64) in detecting sepsis early in Asian populations. We examined the cut-off and predictive values of nCD64 for diagnosing sepsis in Vietnamese intensive care units (ICU) patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the ICU of Cho Ray Hospital between January 2019 and April 2020. All 104 newly admitted patients were included. Sensitivity (Sens), specificity (Spec), positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated to compare the diagnostic values of nCD64 with those of procalcitonin (PCT) and white blood cell (WBC) for sepsis. The median nCD64 value in sepsis patients was statistically higher than that of non-sepsis patients (3106 [1970–5200] vs. 745 [458–906] molecules/cell, p < 0.001). ROC analysis found that the AUC value of nCD64 was 0.92, which was higher than that of PCT (0.872), WBC (0.637), and nCD64 combined, with WBC (0.906) and nCD64 combined with WBC and PCT (0.919), but lower than that of nCD64 combined with PCT (0.924). With an AUC value of 0.92, the nCD64 index of 1311 molecules/cell-detected sepsis with 89.9% Sens, 85.7% Spec, 92.5% PPV, and 81.1% NPV. nCD64 can be a useful marker for early sepsis diagnosis in ICU patients. nCD64 combined with PCT may improve the diagnostic accuracy.
Update on the Role of FeNO in Asthma Management
Authors: Murugesan Neveda , Saxena Damini , Dileep Arundhati , Adrish Muhammad , Hanania Nicola A.
Published: April 2023

Asthma is a heterogenous disorder characterized by presence of different phenotypes and endotypes. Up to 10% of the individuals suffer from severe asthma and are at increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a cost-effective, point of care biomarker that is used to detect type 2 airway inflammation. Guidelines have proposed to measure FeNO as an adjunct to diagnostic evaluation in individuals with suspected asthma and to monitor airway inflammation. FeNO has lower sensitivity, suggesting that it may not be a good biomarker to rule out asthma. FeNO may also be used to predict response to inhaled corticosteroids, predict adherence and deciding on biologic therapy. Higher levels of FeNO have been associated with lower lung function and increased risk for future asthma exacerbations and its predictive value increases when combined with other standard measurements of asthma assessment.
Comparative Clinical Evaluation of a Novel FluA/FluB/SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex LAMP and Commercial FluA/FluB/SARS-CoV-2/RSV RT-qPCR Assays
Authors: Jee Hyunseul , Park Seoyeon , Lee Junmin , Lim Chae Seung , Jang Woong Sik
Published: April 2023

Influenza and coronaviruses cause highly contagious respiratory diseases that cause millions of deaths worldwide. Public health measures implemented during the current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic have gradually reduced influenza circulation worldwide. As COVID-19 measures have relaxed, it is necessary to monitor and control seasonal influenza during this COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, the development of rapid and accurate diagnostic methods for influenza and COVID-19 is of paramount importance because both diseases have significant public health and economic impacts. To address this, we developed a multi-loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) kit capable of simultaneously detecting influenza A/B and SARS-CoV-2. The kit was optimized by testing various ratios of primer sets for influenza A/B (FluA/FluB) and SARS-CoV-2 and internal control (IC). The FluA/FluB/SARS-CoV-2 multiplex LAMP assay showed 100% specificity for uninfected clinical samples and sensitivities of 90.6%, 86.89%, and 98.96% for LAMP kits against influenza A, influenza B, and SARS-CoV-2 clinical samples, respectively. Finally, the attribute agreement analysis for clinical tests indicated substantial agreement between the multiplex FluA/FluB/SARS-CoV-2/IC LAMP and commercial AllplexTM SARS-CoV-2/FluA/FluB/RSV assays.
Understanding the Antecedents and Consequences of Sustainable Competitive Advantage: Testing Intellectual Capital and Organizational Performance
Authors: Astuti Partiwi Dwi , Datrini Luh Kade , Chariri Anis
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between intellectual capital (human capital, relational capital, and structural capital) and sustainable competitive advantage, and the relationship between sustainable competitive advantage and organizational performance. The sample used was 308 SMEs located in Denpasar, Bali Province, Indonesia. Data were collected using a questionnaire that was sent directly to the CEO of the SMEs. Data were analyzed using SEM-PLS with WarpPLS 8.0. The findings show that there is a significant positive relationship between each dimension of intellectual capital (human capital, relational capital, and structural capital) and sustainable competitive advantage. Sustainable competitive advantage is also significantly and positively related to organizational performance. This study contributes to the understanding of intellectual capital in the value creation process of SMEs in developing countries. This study also enriches the previously developed conceptualization of intellectual capital by proposing intellectual capital as an important variable underlying the sustainability practices of companies, which allows them to achieve superior performances.
The Moderating Role of Liquidity in the Relationship between the Expenditures and Financial Performance of SMEs: Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Airout Rana M. , Alawaqleh Qasim A. , Almasria Nashat A. , Alduais Fahd , Alawaqleh Sonia Q.
Published: April 2023

The current paper aims to investigate the moderating role of liquidity in the relationship between accounting and advertising expenditures and the financial performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Jordan. Furthermore, the present paper highlights the importance of managing expenditures and improving financial performance. Since the performance of Jordanian SMEs is extremely critical, furthermore, the present paper explores the possibility of empowering these businesses in order to achieve profitability. This paper is based on descriptive statistics, regression, and correlation analysis in order to analyze the data, collecting secondary data from 200 SMEs. The results demonstrate that accounting expenditures are key factors for financial performance, especially in SMEs. Moreover, SMEs are more sensitive to liquidity challenges, which significantly impact their short-term expenditure and consequently influence their financial performance. It is evident that accounting expenditures moderated by liquidity have a positive effect on the financial performance of SMEs. However, our findings indicate a negative effect regarding the relationship between advertising expenditures and financial performance. According to the results of this study, regulators may offer new regulations and legislation in the future to the Ministry of Finance and the Amman Stock Exchange.
Do Direct and Indirect Recommendations Facilitate Students’ Self-Regulated Learning in Flipped Classroom Online Activities? Findings from Two Studies
Authors: Du Jiahui , Hew Khe Foon , Li Liuyufeng
Published: April 2023

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is a prerequisite for successful learning. However, many students report having difficulties in completing individual online tasks outside the classroom in flipped learning contexts. Therefore, additional support for students should be provided to help them improve their SRL skills. Studies have examined the effects of prompts (e.g., questions) to facilitate SRL but have paid less attention to exploring how different types of recommendations for SRL activities may affect students’ SRL skills, course engagement and learning performance. We conducted two studies using direct and indirect recommendations for 77 undergraduate students in the faculty of education in two flipped classroom courses. The direct recommendation approach suggested specific follow-up SRL activities in various learning tasks, whereas the indirect recommendation approach provided students with general SRL hints but left them to identify what specific SRL activities they should use in the next step. To evaluate the impact of each recommendation approach, we measured the students’ self-reported SRL skills, online behaviors, course engagement and learning performance. The results suggested that direct recommendations were useful in improving students’ engagement in online SRL activities and in sustaining their motivation for SRL, while indirect recommendations played a major role in reminding students of the need to self-regulate their learning. Both types of recommendations could significantly affect the quality of students’ online learning. Finally, we discuss the theoretical and practical implications for future SRL recommendation research.
VES-BJT: A Lateral Bipolar Transistor on SOI with Polysilicon Emitter and Collector
Authors: Mierzwinski Piotr , Kuzmicz Wieslaw
Published: April 2023

This paper summarizes the results of investigations of bipolar transistors made in VESTIC (Vertical Slit Transistor-based Integrated Circuits) technology. This technology was proposed by W. Maly as an alternative to classical bulk CMOS technology. However, the basic VESTIC cell can be used not only to make field effect transistors but also to make bipolar transistors. Their structures differ in many ways from existing structures of bipolar transistors. The investigations reported here aim to answer the question: can VESTIC-based lateral bipolar transistors be useful as active devices, and can they be made technologically compatible with field effect VESTIC devices? The theoretical studies were followed by the fabrication and measurements of VESTIC-based p-n-p and n-p-n bipolar devices. Although the manufacturing technology available was far from optimal, working bipolar devices were obtained. The results show that VESTIC-based bipolar devices may achieve acceptable parameters if made with state-of-the-art manufacturing technology. The main outcome of the research reported in the paper is that p-n-p and n-p-n bipolar transistors with acceptable parameters may be fabricated, together with field effect devices, in VESTIC-based integrated circuits. As a result, the VESTIC technology could become the new original BiCMOS technology.
Variable Angular Rate Measurement for a Spacecraft Based on the Rolling Shutter Mode of a Star Tracker
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Xing Fei , Sun Ting , You Zheng
Published: April 2023

Angular rate is a piece of useful information for the attitude control of a spacecraft. The star tracker as a space optical sensor can be used to measure the angular rate of a spacecraft. In this paper, a novel approach is proposed to improve the measurement accuracy of the angular rate during spacecraft rotation. The electronic rolling shutter (RS) imaging mode of the complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor in a star tracker is applied to obtain much higher sampling frequency for reducing the change of the angular rate between the sampling interval. The optic flow vector on the imaging plane is approximated within the second order using three successive star images to reflect the nonlinear effect from the variable angular rate. The experiment is performed to demonstrate the advantage of the new approach for variable angular rate measurement.
ETCNLog: A System Log Anomaly Detection Method Based on Efficient Channel Attention and Temporal Convolutional Network
Authors: Chang Yuyuan , Luktarhan Nurbol , Liu Jingru , Chen Qinglin
Published: April 2023

The scale of the system and network applications is expanding, and higher requirements are being put forward for anomaly detection. The system log can record system states and significant operational events at different critical points. Therefore, using the system log for anomaly detection can help with system maintenance and avoid unnecessary loss. The system log has obvious timing characteristics, and the execution sequence of the system log has a certain dependency relationship. However, sometimes the length of sequence dependence is long. To handle the problem of longer sequence logs in anomaly detection, this paper proposes a system log anomaly detection method based on efficient channel attention and temporal convolutional network (ETCNLog). It builds a model by treating the system log as a natural language sequence. To handle longer sequence logs more effectively, ETCNLog uses the semantic and timing information of logs. It can automatically learn the importance of different log sequences and detect hidden dependencies within sequences to improve the accuracy of anomaly detection. We run extensive experiments on the actual public log dataset BGL. The experimental results show that the Precision and F1-score of ETCNLog reach 98.15% and 98.21%, respectively, both of which are better than the current anomaly detection methods.
A Joint Angle and Frequency Spectrum Estimation Algorithm Using Difference Coarray
Authors: Li Dan , Ma Yanan , Fan Guangteng , Fu Yaowen
Published: April 2023

The spectrum sensing that jointly estimates direction-of-arrival (DOA) and frequency spectrum is an important issue for cognitive radio. Existing off-grid DOA estimation algorithms using difference coarray require a large number of snapshots to guarantee the estimation accuracy. Meanwhile, inaccurate DOA estimation renders inaccurate frequency spectrum estimation due to coupled estimation process. In order to overcome these disadvantages, we propose a joint angle and frequency spectrum estimation algorithm using difference coarray in this work. The proposed algorithm first transforms the received signal into the coarray domain and then adopts an “estimate and subtract” method to separate multiple signals. Subsequently, the DOA estimate of each source is corrected iteratively based on the proposed simple interpolation method. Finally, the frequency spectra are obtained by estimating the frequency response matrix based on the previous estimated DOAs. The shortage of requiring a large number of snapshots are overcome by utilizing the deterministically orthogonal signal model in which the signals are completely uncorrelated. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm for off-grid DOA and frequency spectrum estimation using difference coarray with few snapshots.
Haptic Systems: Trends and Lessons Learned for Haptics in Spacesuits
Authors: Kuhail Mohammad Amin , Berengueres Jose , Taher Fatma , Alkuwaiti Mariam , Khan Sana Z.
Published: April 2023

Haptic technology uses forces, vibrations, and movements to simulate a sense of touch. In the context of spacesuits, proposals to use haptic systems are scant despite evidence of their efficacy in other domains. Existing review studies have sought to summarize existing haptic system applications. Despite their contributions to the body of knowledge, existing studies have not assessed the applicability of existing haptic systems in spacesuit design to meet contemporary challenges. This study asks, “What can we learn from existing haptic technologies to create spacesuits?”. As such, we examine academic and commercial haptic systems to address this issue and draw insights for spacesuit design. The study shows that kinesthetic and tactile haptic systems have been effectively utilized in various domains, including healthcare, gaming, and education to improve the sense of touch and terrain and reduce sensory deprivation. Subjective and objective evaluation methods have been utilized to assess the efficacy and safety of haptic systems. Furthermore, this study discusses the usefulness, safety, and applicability of haptics in spacesuits and the implications for research into space haptics.
Blockchain-Based E-Commerce: A Review on Applications and Challenges
Authors: Taherdoost Hamed , Madanchian Mitra
Published: April 2023

E-commerce platforms enable companies of all sizes to sell their items and promote their brand to a broader audience. The e-commerce sector is continually developing, as new technology and methods of purchasing and selling services and items are developed. The traditional e-commerce system is plagued with problems, such as payment disputes, chargebacks, fraud, and a lack of transparency; however, blockchain can transform e-commerce by making transactions more efficient and safer. Blockchain can be used to build a decentralized network that allows people to securely store and share digital assets. This would enable buyers to access product details such as the product’s origin and source, as well as reduce the risk of fraud. Although the application of blockchain in e-commerce remains in its early stages, this review paper examines research on blockchain-based e-commerce, focusing on applicability and problems in the context of the available literature from 2017 through 2022.
Effects of Different Drying Methods on Drying Characteristics and Quality of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Licorice)
Authors: Zhu Lichun , Li Mengqing , Yang Wenxin , Zhang Junyi , Yang Xuhai , Zhang Qian , Wang Huting
Published: April 2023

Large amounts of waste result from licorice mold rot; moreover, prompt drying directly influences product quality and value. This study compared various glycyrrhiza drying methods (Hot air drying (HAD), infrared combined hot air drying (IR-HAD), vacuum freeze drying (VFD), microwave vacuum drying (MVD), and vacuum pulsation drying (VPD)) that are used in the processing of traditional Chinese medicine. To investigate the effects of various drying methods on the drying characteristics and internal quality of licorice slices, their color, browning, total phenol, total flavonoid, and active components (liquiritin and glycyrrhizic acid) were chosen as qualitative and quantitative evaluation indices. Our results revealed that VFD had the longest drying time, but it could effectively maintain the contents of total phenol, total flavonoid, and liquiritin and glycyrrhizic acid. The results also showed that VFD samples had the best color and the lowest degree of browning, followed by HAD, IR-HAD, and VPD. We think that VFD is the best approach to ensure that licorice is dry.
The Aspects of Artificial Intelligence in Different Phases of the Food Value and Supply Chain
Authors: Bačiulienė Vaida , Bilan Yuriy , Navickas Valentinas , Civín Lubomir
Published: April 2023

The types of artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence integration to the food value and supply chain, other technologies embedded with artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence adoption barriers in the food value and supply chain, and solutions to overcome these barriers were analyzed by the authors. It was demonstrated by the analysis that artificial intelligence can be integrated vertically into the entire food supply and value chain, owing to its wide range of functions. Different phases of the chain are affected by developed technologies such as robotics, drones, and smart machines. Different capabilities are provided for different phases by the interaction of artificial intelligence with other technologies such as big data mining, machine learning, the Internet of services, agribots, industrial robots, sensors and drones, digital platforms, driverless vehicles and machinery, and nanotechnology, as revealed by a systematic literature analysis. However, the application of artificial intelligence is hindered by social, technological, and economic barriers. These barriers can be overcome by developing the financial and digital literacy of farmers and by disseminating good practices among the participants of the food supply and value chain.
Characterization of Aroma Active Compound Production during Kombucha Fermentation: Towards the Control of Sensory Profiles
Authors: Suffys Sarah , Richard Gaëtan , Burgeon Clément , Werrie Pierre-Yves , Haubruge Eric , Fauconnier Marie-Laure , Goffin Dorothée
Published: April 2023

Since the sensorial profile is the cornerstone for the development of kombucha as a beverage with mass market appeal, advanced analytical tools are needed to gain a better understanding of the kinetics of aromatic compounds during the fermentation process to control the sensory profiles of the drink. The kinetics of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) was determined using stir bar sorptive extraction—gas chromatography—mass spectrometry, and odor-active compounds were considered to estimate consumer perception. A total of 87 VOCs were detected in kombucha during the fermentation stages. The synthesis of mainly phenethyl alcohol and isoamyl alcohol probably by Saccharomyces genus led to ester formation. Moreover, the terpene synthesis occurring at the beginning of fermentation (Δ-3-carene, α-phellandrene, γ-terpinene, m- and p-cymene) could be related to yeast activity as well. Principal component analysis identified classes that allowed the major variability explanation, which are carboxylic acids, alcohols, and terpenes. The aromatic analysis accounted for 17 aroma-active compounds. These changes in the evolution of VOCs led to flavor variations: from citrus-floral-sweet notes (geraniol and linalool domination), and fermentation brought intense citrus-herbal-lavender-bergamot notes (α-farnesene). Finally, sweet-floral-bready-honey notes dominated the kombucha flavor (2-phenylethanol). As this study allowed to estimate kombucha sensory profiles, an insight for the development of new drinks by controlling the fermentation process was suggested. Such a methodology should allow a better control and optimization of their sensory profile, which could in turn lead to greater consumer acceptance.
Optimization of a Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Synthesis for a Rapid Detection of Caffeic Acid in Wine
Authors: Elhachem Marie , Bou-Maroun Elias , Abboud Maher , Cayot Philippe , Maroun Richard G.
Published: April 2023

Molecular imprinting is an efficient strategy to make the detection of compounds more specific and more selective. This targeted analytical strategy using molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) synthesis needs to obtain the optimized conditions. A selective molecularly imprinted polymer was prepared for caffeic acid (CA) detection after varying the following synthesis parameters: functional monomer type (N-phenylacrylamide, N-PAA or methacrylic acid, MAA), solvent type (acetonitrile/methanol or acetonitrile/toluene), and the polymerization method (UV or thermal initiation). The optimal polymer was obtained using MAA as a functional monomer, acetonitrile/methanol as solvent, and UV polymerization. Morphological characterizations were done for the optimal CA-MIP using mid-infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and nitrogen adsorption. The optimal polymer showed good specificity and selectivity in the presence of interferents (antioxidants having a chemical structure close to CA) in a hydroalcoholic solution. The electrochemical detection of CA was performed by cyclic voltammetry (CV) after the interaction between CA and the optimal MIP in a wine sample. The linear range of the developed method was between 0 and 1.11 mM, the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.13 mM, and the limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.32 mM. HPLC-UV was used to validate the newly developed method. Recovery values were between 104% and 111%.
Habits, Health and Environment in the Purchase of Bakery Products: Consumption Preferences and Sustainable Inclinations before and during COVID-19
Authors: Nicolosi Agata , Laganà Valentina Rosa , Di Gregorio Donatella
Published: April 2023

The aim of the research is to investigate whether purchasing decisions about bakery products (bread, snacks and biscuits) are influenced by concerns about health, climate change, biodiversity loss and food waste. The exploratory survey was carried out in two successive moments before and during the health emergency from COVID-19. Before the health emergency, face-to-face interviews were carried out using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed by factor analysis, reliability tests and descriptive analysis. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to test the research hypotheses. The results of the modeling analysis of the structural equations highlighted that health and the environment represent an important background in the consumer experience of the respondents and influence the attitude and intention to purchase safe and environmentally friendly bakery products. Furthermore, the results suggest that informed, modern and aware consumers have direct and indirect effects on the intentions to adopt sustainable attitudes. On the contrary, the perception relating to the shops where consumers buy bakery products does not always show a significant influence on the propensity for sustainability. During the health emergency, the interviews were conducted online. Families confined to their homes, buying less in stores, have prepared many baked goods manually at home. The descriptive analysis of this group of consumers shows a growing attention to points of sale and the tendency to use online shopping. Furthermore, the changes in the type of purchases and the importance attributed to the need to reduce food waste emerge.
Advances Postharvest Preservation Technology
Authors: Cefola Maria , Pace Bernardo
Published: April 2023

Fruits and vegetables are important sources of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, which provide many health benefits [...]
Effect of Controlled Atmosphere Packaging on the Physiology and Quality of Fresh-Cut Dictyophora rubrovolvata
Authors: Xia Ziqian , Wang Rui , Ma Chao , Li Jiangkuo , Lei Jiqing , Ji Ning , Pan Xianxing , Chen Tongjie
Published: April 2023

Dictyophora rubrovolvata is a typical edible fungus of Guizhou Province and is very popular due to its unique taste and texture. In this study, the effect of a controlled atmosphere (CA) on fresh-cut D. rubrovolvata shelf life was investigated. Firstly, this study addresses the influence of different O2 concentrations (5%, 20%, 35%, 50%, 65%, 80%, or 95%) with N2 balance on fresh-cut D. rubrovolvata quality while stored at 4 ± 1 °C for 7 d. Then, on the basis of the determined O2 concentration (5%), CO2 (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20%) was involved and stored for 8 d at 4 ± 1 °C. Evaluations of physiology parameters, texture, browning degree, nutritional, umami, volatile components, and total colony numbers were determined in fresh-cut D. rubrovolvata. From the results of water migration, the sample of 5% O2/5% CO2/90% N2 was closer to 0 d than other groups at 8 days. Meanwhile, the polyphenol oxidase (2.26 ± 0.07 U/(g·min)), and catalase activity (4.66 ± 0.08 U/(g·min·FW)) were superior to the samples of other treatment groups on the eighth day (3.04 ± 0.06 to 3.84 ± 0.10 U/(g·min), 4.02 ± 0.07 to 4.07 ± 0.07 U/(g·min·FW)). Therefore, we found that a gas environment with 5% O2/5% CO2/90% N2 could ensure the membrane integrity, oxidation, and prevent the browning of fresh-cut D. rubrovolvata, thus better maintaining the physiological parameters. Meanwhile, it also maintained the samples’ texture, color, nutritional value, and umami taste. Furthermore, it inhibited the increase in total colony numbers. The volatile components were closer to the initial level compared with other groups. The results indicate that fresh-cut D. rubrovolvata could maintain its shelf life and quality when stored in 5% O2/5% CO2/90% N2 at 4 ± 1 °C.
Differentiation of High-Fructose Corn Syrup Adulterated Kelulut Honey Using Physicochemical, Rheological, and Antibacterial Parameters
Authors: Mohamat Rinee Najwa , Noor Nur Rabiatul Adawiah Mohammad , Yusof Yus Aniza , Sabri Suriana , Zawawi Norhasnida
Published: April 2023

Kelulut (stingless bee) honey (KH) possesses a wide range of benefits for human consumption and can exhibit medical effects. Due to its high value, this premium honey is often adulterated with different types of cheaper sugars, causing low nutrients and potential food safety threats in the final product. This study aims to determine the physicochemical, rheological, and antibacterial properties of sugar-based adulterated KH from the stingless bee species Heterotrigona itama. Adulterated samples were prepared using pure honey mixed with different concentrations of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), i.e., 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%. Water activity, colour, total soluble solids, pH, turbidity, viscosity, and antimicrobial activity of KH were determined. In addition, the primary sugar composition (fructose, glucose, and trehalulose) was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography with evaporative light-scattering detection (HPLC-ELSD). This study shows that the increasing percentage of HFCS addition in the KH samples significantly increases (p < 0.05) the total soluble solids, colour, pH, turbidity, viscosity, glucose, and fructose content; meanwhile, the water activity and trehalulose were reduced significantly (p < 0.05). Antimicrobial activity against S. aureus was reduced significantly (p = 0.006) by an increased percentage of HFCS compared to Control. Antimicrobial activity against P. aeruginosa was also found to be reduced significantly but showed non-significant effect from an increased percentage of HFCS in honey (p = 0.413). The bacterium S. aureus was more vulnerable to treatment with honey from both Control and adulterated groups compared to P. aeruginosa. In conclusion, HFCS-adulterated KH and authentic KH can be differentiated using all the parameters investigated. These data are vital for the governing bodies to ensure that KH sold in the markets is free from HFCS adulteration.
Application of Stable Isotope Analysis for Detecting the Geographical Origin of the Greek Currants “Vostizza”: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Thomatou Anna-Akrivi , Mazarakioti Eleni C. , Zotos Anastasios , Kontogeorgos Achilleas , Patakas Angelos , Ladavos Athanasios
Published: April 2023

There is a plethora of food products with geographical indications registered in the European Union without any study about their discrimination from other similar products. This is also the case for Greek currants. This paper aims to analyze if stable isotope analysis of C, N, and S could discriminate the Greek currants “Vositzza”, registered as a product of Protected Designation of Origin, from two other currants registered as products of Protected Geographical Indication coming from neighboring areas. The first results show that the stable isotope ratio of sulfur is not detectable due to the very low sulfur content in the samples, and the analysis should be based on the stable isotope ratios of carbon and nitrogen to discriminate these products. The mean value of δ15N (1.38‰) of PDO “Vostizza” currants is lower than that of currants grown outside the PDO zone (2.01‰), while the mean value of δ13C of PDO “Vostizza” currants is higher (−23.93‰) in comparison to that of currants grown outside the PDO zone (−24.83‰). Nevertheless, the results indicate that with only two isotopic ratios, discrimination could not be achieved, and further analysis is required.
Carbonic Anhydrase Enhanced UV-Crosslinked PEG-DA/PEO Extruded Hydrogel Flexible Filaments and Durable Grids for CO2 Capture
Authors: Shen Jialong , Zhang Sen , Fang Xiaomeng , Salmon Sonja
Published: April 2023

In this study, poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate/poly (ethylene oxide) (PEG-DA/PEO) interpenetrating polymer network hydrogels (IPNH) were extruded into 1D filaments and 2D grids. The suitability of this system for enzyme immobilization and CO2 capture application was validated. IPNH chemical composition was verified spectroscopically using FTIR. The extruded filament had an average tensile strength of 6.5 MPa and elongation at break of 80%. IPNH filament can be twisted and bent and therefore is suitable for further processing using conventional textile fabrication methods. Initial activity recovery of the entrapped carbonic anhydrase (CA) calculated from esterase activity, showed a decrease with an increase in enzyme dose, while activity retention of high enzyme dose samples was over 87% after 150 days of repeated washing and testing. IPNH 2D grids that were assembled into spiral roll structured packings exhibited increased CO2 capture efficiency with increasing enzyme dose. Long-term CO2 capture performance of the CA immobilized IPNH structured packing was tested in a continuous solvent recirculation experiment for 1032 h, where 52% of the initial CO2 capture performance and 34% of the enzyme contribution were retained. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using rapid UV-crosslinking to form enzyme-immobilized hydrogels by a geometrically-controllable extrusion process that uses analogous linear polymers for both viscosity enhancement and chain entanglement purposes, and achieves high activity retention and performance stability of the immobilized CA. Potential uses for this system extend to 3D printing inks and enzyme immobilization matrices for such diverse applications as biocatalytic reactors and biosensor fabrication.
Crosswalk between Charlson Comorbidity Index and the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Score for Geriatric Trauma Assessment
Authors: Adeyemi Oluwaseun John , Meltzer-Bruhn Ariana , Esper Garrett , DiMaggio Charles , Grudzen Corita , Chodosh Joshua , Konda Sanjit
Published: April 2023

The American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA-PS) grade better risk stratifies geriatric trauma patients, but it is only reported in patients scheduled for surgery. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), however, is available for all patients. This study aims to create a crosswalk from the CCI to ASA-PS. Geriatric trauma cases, aged 55 years and older with both ASA-PS and CCI values (N = 4223), were used for the analysis. We assessed the relationship between CCI and ASA-PS, adjusting for age, sex, marital status, and body mass index. We reported the predicted probabilities and the receiver operating characteristics. A CCI of zero was highly predictive of ASA-PS grade 1 or 2, and a CCI of 1 or higher was highly predictive of ASA-PS grade 3 or 4. Additionally, while a CCI of 3 predicted ASA-PS grade 4, a CCI of 4 and higher exhibited greater accuracy in predicting ASA-PS grade 4. We created a formula that may accurately situate a geriatric trauma patient in the appropriate ASA-PS grade after adjusting for age, sex, marital status, and body mass index. In conclusion, ASA-PS grades can be predicted from CCI, and this may aid in generating more predictive trauma models.
The Dilemma of Compulsory Vaccinations—Ethical and Legal Considerations
Authors: Sela Yael , Grinberg Keren , Nissanholtz-Gannot Rachel
Published: April 2023

The high childhood vaccination coverage in Israel leads to a low rate of morbidity from the diseases against which the vaccination in administered. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, children’s immunization rates declined dramatically due to closures of schools and childcare services, lockdowns, and guidelines for physical distancing. In addition, parents’ hesitancy, refusals, and delays in adhering to routine childhood immunizations seem to have increased during the pandemic. A decline in routine pediatric vaccine administration might indicate that the entire population faces increased risks for outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Throughout history, vaccines have raised questions about their safety, efficacy, and need among adults and parents who feared or hesitated to vaccinate their children. Objections derive from various ideological and religious reasons or concerns about the possible inherent dangers. Mistrust in the government and/or economic or political interests also raise concerns among parents. The importance of providing vaccines to maintain public health, as opposed to the autonomy of the individuals over their body and their children, raises ethical questions. In Israel, there is no legal obligation to get vaccinated. It is imperative to find a decisive solution to this situation without delay. Furthermore, where democratically one’s principles are sacred and where one’s autonomy over one’s body is also unquestionable, such a legal solution would not only be unacceptable but also rather impossible to enforce. It seems that some reasonable balance between the necessity to preserve public health and our democratic principles should apply.
Saudi Arabian Perceptions of Childhood Anxiety, Parental Communication, and Parenting Style
Authors: Abed Lowai G. , Abed Mohaned G. , Shackelford Todd K.
Published: April 2023

Parenting communication and parenting style, including expressions of fear, worry, and threat, may contribute to children’s anxiety and apprehension. This study examined the degree to which perceptions of parental communication (both verbal and nonverbal) and parenting style are linked with childhood anxiety. This is among the first studies to investigate these relationships in a Saudi Arabian context. We employed a sample of 121 Saudi adults who completed questionnaires measuring perceptions of 2 parenting styles (authoritative and authoritarian), parental anxiety, and childhood anxiety. Parental communication elements such as shouting, criticism, facial expression, and body expressions were included among assessments of perceived parental anxiety, authoritative style, and authoritarian style. The results indicated that perceptions of childhood anxiety were positively associated with parental anxiety but not consistently associated with other assessed variables. This research addressed perceptions of parental communication and parenting style in the development of childhood anxiety, extending upon previous research on Western samples to a Middle Eastern sample residing in Saudi Arabia.
No Significant Radiological Signs of Adult Spinal Deformity Progression after a Mean of 11 Years of Follow-Up Following Harrington Rod Instrumentation Removal and Watchful Waiting
Authors: Brumat Peter , Mohar Janez , Čeleš Dejan , Erdani Danijel , Hero Nikša , Topolovec Matevž
Published: April 2023

The study aimed to assess long-term radiological outcomes in patients from our institution who were primarily treated for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with surgical correction using Harrington rod (HR) instrumentation, and afterward with watchful waiting of residual spinal deformity after HR removal, whereby no patient consented to spinal deformity correction. A single-institution case series of 12 patients was retrospectively evaluated. Preoperative and most recent post-instrumentation removal radiographic measurements were compared, along with baseline characteristics. The average age of patients (all females) at the time of HR instrumentation removal was 38 ± 10 years (median 40, range 19–54). The mean follow-up from the HR instrumentation implantation to the HR instrumentation removal was 21 ± 10 years (median 25, range 2–37), with a further mean of 11 ± 10 years (median 7, range 2–36) of follow-up following HR instrumentation removal and watchful waiting. No significant change in radiological parameters was observed: LL (p = 0.504), TK (p = 0.164), PT (p = 0.165), SS (p = 0.129), PI (p = 0.174), PI–LL (p = 0.291), SVA (p = 0.233), C7-CSVL (p = 0.387), SSA (p = 0.894), TPA (p = 0.121), and coronal Cobb angle (proximal (p = 0.538), main thoracic (p = 0.136), and lumbar (p = 0.413)). No significant change in coronal or sagittal parameters was observed in this single-institution long-term radiological outcome study of adults following HR instrumentation removal and watchful waiting of residual spinal deformity.