bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Effect of Relative Humidity on the Convective Heat Transfer Coefficient Using Full-Scale Experiments in a Climatic Wind Tunnel
Authors: Kočí Jan , Navara Tomáš , Maděra Jiří , Trush Arsenii , Cacciotti Riccardo , Pospíšil Stanislav , Černý Robert
Published: February 2025

The effect of relative humidity on the convective heat exchange between a solid surface and an ambient air stream is analyzed in this study. In the experimental part, a unique closed-circuit climatic wind tunnel is utilized, allowing full-scale experiments to be conducted with full control over the environmental parameters defining the experimental boundary conditions. The experimental configuration, which includes a specific design of a specimen to promote a controlled heat flow through the specimen body, might bring new insights into the field of energy-related calculations or prediction of building energy consumption. The novelty of this work lies in the implementation of relative humidity as an independent factor within thermal modelling, which might contribute to increasing the accuracy of building energy simulation models. The computational analysis of experimental results indicates relative humidity as an important parameter, which can affect the convective heat transfer coefficient by up to 37%. The major effects have been observed after exceeding a relative humidity of 50–55%.
Artificial Intelligence-Driven Approach to Optimizing Boiler Power Generation Efficiency: The Advanced Boiler Combustion Control Model
Authors: Lee Kyu-Jeong , Choi So-Won , Lee Eul-Bum
Published: February 2025

The by-product gases generated during steel manufacturing processes, including blast furnace gas, coke oven gas, and Linz–Donawitz gas, exhibit considerable variability in composition and supply. Consequently, achieving stable combustion control of these gases is critical for improving boiler efficiency. This study developed the advanced boiler combustion control model (ABCCM) by combining the random forest (RF) and classification and regression tree (CART) algorithms to optimize the combustion of steam power boilers using steel by-product gases. The ABCCM derives optimal combustion patterns in real time using the RF algorithm and minimizes fuel consumption through the CART algorithm, thereby optimizing the overall gross heat rate. The results demonstrate that the ABCCM achieves a 0.86% improvement in combustion efficiency and a 1.7% increase in power generation efficiency compared to manual control methods. Moreover, the model reduces the gross heat rate by 58.3 kcal/kWh, which translates into an estimated annual energy cost saving of USD 89.6 K. These improvements contribute considerably to reducing carbon emissions, with the ABCCM being able to optimize fuel utilization and minimize excess air supply, thus enhancing the overall sustainability of steelmaking operations. This study underscores the potential of the ABCCM to extend beyond the steel industry.
Base-Load Nuclear Reactors for Fully Dispatchable Electricity: Nuclear Air-Brayton Combined Cycles, Firebrick Heat Storage, Hydrogen Storage, and Hydrocarbon Biofuels
Authors: Forsberg Charles
Published: February 2025

Three partly coupled integrated nuclear energy systems are described. These enable base-load nuclear reactors to provide fully dispatchable electricity without greenhouse-gas emissions, thus replacing gas turbines burning natural gas and batteries storing electricity. These hybrid systems link the industrial sector to the electricity sector. Firstly, electricity-to-high-temperature (1800 °C) gigawatt-hour firebrick heat storage converts low-price electricity to high-temperature stored heat to provide dispatchable heat for industry and power generation. Secondly, Nuclear Air-Brayton Combined Cycles (NACC) with thermodynamic topping cycles using high-temperature stored heat or combustible fuel to provide dispatchable electricity. Peak power output can be two to five times the base-load electricity production. The heat-to-electricity efficiency of the thermodynamic topping cycles exceeds 70%. Thirdly, nuclear hydrogen production for industrial markets enables the production of dispatchable electricity where hydrogen is used for energy storage but not to produce heat and electricity. Base-load nuclear reactors send electricity to the grid and/or electrolyzers for hydrogen production depending upon electricity prices. Low-cost hydrogen storage enables us to meet steady-state industrial hydrogen demands, even though hydrogen and grid electricity production is varied. Hydrogen production for industrial uses (ammonia fertilizer, direct reduction of iron ore to iron replacing coke, cellulosic liquid hydrocarbon biofuels replacing crude oil) may exceed 20% of total energy demand and may be a massive source of dispatchable electricity. The biofuels provide storable energy when heat storage is depleted.
Consideration of Wind-Solar Uncertainty and V2G Mode of Electric Vehicles in Bi-Level Optimization Scheduling of Microgrids
Authors: Chang Zezhou , Liu Xinyuan , Zhang Qian , Zhang Ying , Wang Ziren , Zhang Yuyuan , Li Wei
Published: February 2025

In recent years, the global electric vehicle (EV) sector has experienced rapid growth, resulting in major load variations in microgrids due to uncontrolled charging behaviors. Simultaneously, the unpredictable nature of distributed energy output complicates effective integration, leading to frequent limitations on wind and solar energy utilization. The combined integration of distributed energy sources with electric vehicles introduces both opportunities and challenges for microgrid scheduling; however, relevant research to inform practical applications is currently insufficient. This paper tackles these issues by first introducing a method for generating typical wind–solar output scenarios through kernel density estimation and a combination strategy using Frank copula functions, accounting for the complementary traits and uncertainties of wind and solar energy. Building on these typical scenarios, a two-level optimization model for a microgrid is created, integrating demand response and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) interactions of electric vehicles. The model’s upper level aims to minimize operational and environmental costs, while the lower level seeks to reduce the total energy expenses of electric vehicles. Simulation results demonstrate that this optimization model improves the economic efficiency of the microgrid system, fosters regulated EV electricity consumption, and mitigates load variations, thus ensuring stable microgrid operation.
Modeling and Simulation Analysis of Three-Phase Saturable Transformers: A Study on the Effects of Geomagnetically Induced Current on Transformers
Authors: Duan Junhong , Bao Yanyan , Zhang Guangdong , Wang Xiaofei , Jiang Pin , Niu Wei , Zhang Hailong , Zhen Wenxi , Xia Yue , Song Ruikai
Published: February 2025

The saturation model of the transformer is one of the core tools of multi-physics simulation. By combining it with multi-physics simulation, researchers can more comprehensively evaluate the performance of a transformer in actual applications. Geomagnetically induced currents (GIC) induce DC bias in transformers, leading to core saturation and a host of adverse effects. Traditional transformer models often struggle to accurately capture the behavior of the core under nonlinear saturation conditions. To address these challenges, a saturable transformer unified magnetic-equivalent (UMEC) model that directly takes the B-H magnetization curve to represent a transformer’s core nonlinear characteristics is proposed. The saturable transformer model is based on the model of a magnetic circuit of the transformer core. An estimation method to obtain a transformer’s essential parameters for saturation simulation is presented. GIC effects on transformer saturation are also studied through the proposed saturable transformer and estimation method.
Prestressed Concrete T-Beams Strengthened with Near-Surface Mounted Carbon-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Rods Under Monotonic Loading: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Nugroho Laurencius , Haryanto Yanuar , Hu Hsuan-Teh , Hsiao Fu-Pei , Pamudji Gandjar , Setiadji Bagus Hario , Hsu Chiao-Ning , Weng Pu-Wen , Lin Chia-Chen
Published: February 2025

Prestressed concrete structures, designed to enhance the compressive strength of concrete through internal pretension, are increasingly susceptible to serviceability issues caused by rising live loads, material degradation, and environmental impacts. Strengthening or retrofitting offers a practical and cost-effective alternative to full replacement. This study investigated the flexural strengthening of prestressed concrete T-beams in the negative moment region using near-surface mounted (NSM) carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) rods. Validation against experimental results from the literature demonstrated high accuracy, with an average numerical-to-experimental ultimate load ratio of 0.97 for reinforced concrete T-beams strengthened with NSM-CFRP rods, a negligible difference of 0.49% for prestressed concrete I-beams, and a minimal error of 1.30% for prestressed concrete slabs strengthened with CFRP laminates. Parametric studies examined the effects of CFRP rod embedment depths and initial prestressing levels. In certain cases, achieving the minimum embedment depth is not feasible due to design or construction constraints. The results showed that fully embedded CFRP rods increased the ultimate load by up to 14.02% for low prestressing levels and 16.36% for high levels, while half-embedded rods provided comparable improvements of 11.20% and 15.76%, respectively. These findings confirm the effectiveness of NSM-CFRP systems and highlight the potential of partial embedment as a practical solution in design-constrained scenarios.
Understanding the Origin of Wet Deposition Black Carbon in North America During the Fall Season
Authors: Sricharoenvech Piyaporn , Edwards Ross , Yaşar Müge , Gay David A. , Schauer James
Published: February 2025

Black carbon (BC) aerosols emitted from biomass, fossil fuel, and waste combustion contribute to the radiation budget imbalance and are transported over extensive distances in the Earth’s atmosphere. These aerosols undergo physical and chemical modifications with co-existing aerosols (e.g., nitrate, sulfate, ammonium) through aging processes during long-range transport and are primarily removed from the troposphere by wet deposition. Using precipitation samples collected in North America between 26 October and 1 December 2020 by the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP), we investigated the relationships between BC and both water-soluble ions and water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC) using Spearman’s rank coefficients. We then attempted to identify the sources of BC in the wet deposition using factor analysis (FA) and satellite data of fire smoke. BC showed a very strong correlation with nitrate (ρ = 0.83). Strong correlations were also found with WSOC, ammonium, calcium, and sulfate ions (ρ = 0.78, 0.74, 0.74, and 0.67, respectively). FA showed that BC was in the same factor as nitrate, ammonium, sulfate, and WSOC, indicating that BC could originate from secondary aerosol formation and biomass burning. Supported by satellite data of fire and smoke, BC and other correlated pollutants were believed to be associated with wildfire outbreaks in several states in the United States (US) during November 2020.
Best Practices in Scenario Planning and Mapping for Salmon Recovery in the Columbia River Basin
Authors: Hill Gregory M. , Kolmes Steven A.
Published: February 2025

Salmon recovery planning in the Columbia River Basin depends upon what we argue are best practices of scenario planning in social–ecological systems. We examine how resilience science informs the concepts of stability landscapes and scenario mapping, and how this fits into the current state of salmonid recovery planning. We analyze proposed “scenarios” and “perspectives” that reflect the current state of the U.S. federal planning process for salmonid recovery. We argue that only proposed “scenarios” that adhere to best practices, employ the resilience perspective, and adopt holistic social–ecological thought can be mapped onto a stability landscape. We demonstrate how such scenarios have the potential to increase insight into the viability of proposed recovery actions and avoid self-contradictory efforts stemming from a failure to see the basin-wide social–ecological system as a whole. We discuss and illustrate the potential of employing backcasting and post-normal science in terms of indigenous perspectives on salmon recovery.
One-Step Preparation and Characterization of a Protein–Sucrose Wood Adhesive with Excellent Bonding Performance
Authors: Wu Longxu , Gu Wen , Li De , Yang Haiyuan , Yang Qingqing , Li Huali , Chen Chuchu , Meng Tong , Yang Xuehang , He Xin , Yang Yang , Wu Zhigang
Published: February 2025

In this study, a simple one-step blend of isolated soy protein and sucrose was used directly as a wood adhesive for plywood manufacturing. The bonding performance, water resistance, curing performance, and thermal stability of the adhesive were evaluated. The preparation process of the plywood was optimized and the curing mechanism was also investigated. The results demonstrate the following: (1) Sucrose was successfully converted into furan compounds, especially 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), which underwent a sufficient cross-linking reaction with the SPI, and this was the key during the curing of the adhesive. (2) The effect of hot-pressing temperature on the bonding performances was the most significant and played a key role in the success of the test, followed by hot-pressing time, solid content, and adhesive loading. (3) In this study, 200 °C was the critical point at which the adhesive obtained good wet bonding strength and was also the critical temperature at which the effective conversion of sucrose into 5-HMF occurred. (4) The optimum preparation parameters of plywood were a hot-pressing temperature of 216 °C, a hot-pressing time of 1 min/mm, a solid content of 50%, and adhesive consumption of 220 g/m2. Using this process, a bonding strength in warm water of 1.74 MPa, a bonding strength in boiling water of 1.50 MPa, and a wood failure rate of more than 80% were obtained for the plywood.
Monitoring Wildlife Using Camera Traps: Effect of Bait Type in Pine Plantations and Natural Hardwood Stands
Authors: Fredericksen Todd , Martin Wylie
Published: February 2025

Camera traps across from cages baited with either sardines or suet were installed in forests on the campus of Ferrum College in Virginia, USA, during the Fall and Spring seasons over two years. The objective of this study was to determine the vertebrate wildlife abundance and species composition in natural hardwood forests with mixed pine species compared to pine plantations. We found that the forest type and bait preference differed among the species by season. The relative abundance of natural foods and the need for winter thermal cover may explain the capture success in this study.
Specific Point Mutations in the RRT5 Gene Modulate Fermentative Phenotypes of an Industrial Wine Yeast
Authors: Bastías Camila , Pérez Yosbany , Kessi-Pérez Eduardo I. , Guillamón José Manuel , Martínez Claudio
Published: February 2025

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a yeast species of industrial importance due to its role in the production of several alcoholic beverages, including wine. During wine fermentation, S. cerevisiae must be able to cope with several stresses, such as limited nitrogen availability; nitrogen deficiencies in grape must could lead to stuck or sluggish fermentations, generating for the wine industry significant economic losses. A microbiological alternative to this problem is the generation of yeast strains with low nitrogen requirements for fermentation. In this context, it is important to study the natural diversity regarding adaptation to low nitrogen conditions, especially in terms of searching for beneficial alleles with potential industrial applications. In the present work, we validated the impact of specific SNPs present in the RRT5 gene in an industrial genetic background (T73 strain), analyzing both growth kinetics under microculture conditions and fermentative phenotypes in a larger volume. In this way, we were able to validate that these SNPs do indeed have an impact on the growth kinetics and fermentative capabilities of this strain, although the particular effect depends on the type of must used (synthetic or natural) and the nitrogen content (limiting or non-limiting). In particular, one mutation (601A>C) caused slower fermentation kinetics in the nitrogen-limited natural must but did not affect the ethanol produced or the amount of sugars consumed, in addition to producing more glycerol and consuming less phenylalanine, which could have a positive impact on the organoleptic properties of the wine produced and therefore an industrial potential. To our knowledge, this is the first work linking RRT5 to fermentative phenotypes, and the genetic variants validated could have industrial potential for the wine industry.
Using a Novel Process-Near Mechanical-Deflection-Based Spreading Test Rig for a Systematic Experimental Analysis of Carbon Fiber Rovings Spreading Process
Authors: Kohl Stefan , Marschik Christian , Kranzl Thomas , Schnaitter Mathias , Ünal Veysel Furkan , Berger-Weber Gerald
Published: February 2025

Unidirectional (UD) fiber-reinforced thermoplastic tapes provide excellent specific mechanical properties; thus, they are being increasingly used for the targeted local reinforcement of plastic components in lightweight construction applications. An essential step in the production of UD tapes is fiber spreading, the aim of which is to expand fiber rovings from an initial width to a defined final width. Using a test rig under realistic conditions, we systematically investigated the factors that influence fiber spreading by deflection. Carbon-fiber rovings with various numbers of filaments were guided over deflection rods, and roving width before and after spreading was recorded with cameras. A full design of experiments (DoE) plan was set up, in which (i) the number of rods, (ii) rod diameter, (iii) immersion depth of the rod, and (iv) take-off speed of the fiber roving were systematically varied. We statistically evaluated the results of the experiments and found that the main factors that influenced the response variables investigated were number of rods and rod diameter, followed by immersion depth. We also observed that a higher number of filaments in the roving led to more complexity and greater variability. Our results can be used to optimize the spreading configuration in the production of UD tapes.
Financial Overconfidence and High-Cost Borrowing: The Moderating Effect of Mobile Payments
Authors: Chawla Isha , Mokhtari Manouchehr
Published: February 2025

Inadequate financial literacy and overconfidence in financial knowledge, coupled with the use of mobile payments (MPs), may contribute to harmful financial behaviors. While the relationship between financial knowledge confidence and financial behaviors is well documented, there is limited understanding of how financial confidence affects the use of alternative financial services (AFSs), such as payday loans, and how MPs moderate this relationship. This study examines the moderating effect of MPs on the association between financial knowledge confidence and the demand for AFS, utilizing data from U.S. adults surveyed in the 2018 National Financial Capability Study. The results show that individuals who use MPs are significantly more likely to engage with AFSs compared to non-users, with MPs increasing the likelihood of AFS usage by 92% (odds ratio: 1.92). Furthermore, overconfident individuals who use MPs are 94% more likely to rely on AFSs (odds ratio: 1.94). These findings highlight the need for targeted financial education and policymaking to mitigate the risks associated with financial overconfidence and MP usage.
Experimental Studies on Peat Soils’ Fire Hazard Based on Their Physical and Chemical Properties: The Vasilievsky Mokh Deposit Beneath the Tver Region Agricultural Lands
Authors: Didmanidze Otari Nazirovich , Evgrafov Alexey Vladimirovich , Guzalov Artembek Sergeevich , Pulyaev Nikolay Nikolayevich , Kurilenko Alexey Viktorovich
Published: February 2025

This study addresses the task of ecologically assessing the consequences of natural fires. Statistical data are presented on the carbon dioxide emissions in millions of tons and analytical data on the locations of peat fires, as well as modern methods of detection and control of peat and forest fires, divided into groups. An analysis of the works of leading Russian and international scientists and research organizations engaged in the search for methods of peat fire forecasting is also presented. Our aim was to develop a more effective method of preventing peat soil ignition by changing its physical and moisture characteristics. To that end, peat samples were selected in the Tver region. The laboratory equipment and the methodology of our experimental studies are described in detail, in which we simulated the natural climatic conditions in the center of the Russian Federation. This study provides a mathematical description of the process of spontaneous ignition, which occurs according to the following steps: a heat flow heats the surface to the ignition temperature, creating a self-heating zone; eventually, a wave of ignition (smoldering) capable of self-propagation is formed. We experimentally determined the spontaneous thermal ignition conditions in our experimental studies of the fire hazards of selected peat samples, where the test material was loaded in a cylindrical container made of brass net with a 0.8 mm mesh, of the dimensions 30 × 30 mm. Thermocouple elements were placed inside the container, fixing the temperature of the surface and the center of the sample, where the smoldering or ignition zone of the test material formed. We analyzed the results of our experimental studies on peat samples’ self-heating chemical reaction, leading us to draw conclusions about the possibility of fires on peat soil depending on its physical and chemical characteristics. We also offer recommendations that will improve peat soils’ fire safety, permitting agricultural crop production without a peat fire risk.
Essential Organizing and Evolving Atmospheric Mechanisms Affecting the East Bay Hills Fire in Oakland, California (1991)
Authors: Agyakwah William , Lin Yuh-Lang , Kaplan Michael L.
Published: February 2025

This study examined atmospheric mechanisms affecting the East Bay Hills Fire (1991) in Oakland, California, using the Advanced Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model and North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR) dataset. High-resolution WRF simulations, initially at 16 km, were downscaled to 4 km and 1 km for analyzing primary and secondary circulations at synoptic and meso-α/meso-β scales, respectively, before the fire. Additionally, the interaction between the synoptic-scale and mesoscale environments was examined using backward trajectories derived from NARR data. The findings reveal that a strong pressure gradient created by a ridge over the Great Basin and a trough off the Pacific coast generated favorable meso-α conditions for the hot, dry northeasterly winds, known as “Diablo winds”, which initiated the wildfire in northern California. Mountain waves, enhanced by jet stream dynamics, contributed to sinking air on the Sierra Nevada’s western slopes. The main conclusion is that jet circulation did not directly transport warm, dry air to the fire but established a vertical atmospheric structure conducive to wave amplification and breaking and downward dry air fluxes leading to the necessary warm and dry low-level air for the fire. The hot–dry–windy (HDW) fire weather index further confirmed the highly favorable fire weather conditions.
Advancing Fisheries Research and Management with Computer Vision: A Survey of Recent Developments and Pending Challenges
Authors: Eickholt Jesse , Gregory Jonathan , Vemuri Kavya
Published: February 2025

The field of computer vision has progressed rapidly over the past ten years, with noticeable improvements in techniques to detect, locate, and classify objects. Concurrent with these advances, improved accessibility through machine learning software libraries has sparked investigations of applications across multiple domains. In the areas of fisheries research and management, efforts have centered on the localization of fish and classification by species, as such tools can estimate the health, size, and movement of fish populations. To aid in the interpretation of computer vision for fisheries research management tasks, a survey of the recent literature was conducted. In contrast to prior reviews, this survey focuses on employed evaluation metrics and datasets as well as the challenges associated with applying machine learning to a fisheries research and management context. Misalignment between applications and commonly used evaluation metrics and datasets mischaracterizes the efficacy of emerging computer vision techniques for fisheries research and management tasks. Aqueous, turbid, and variable lighted deployment settings further complicate the use of computer vision and generalizability of the reported results. Informed by these inherent challenges, culling surveillance data, exploratory data collection in remote settings, and selective passage and traps are presented as opportunities for future research.
Effect of Melatonin Treatment on Storage Quality and Antioxidant System of Postharvest Winter Jujube (Zizyphus jujube Mill. cv. Dongzao)
Authors: Hei Hongai , Tang Heyin , Zhao Rui , Li Gengchen , Shi Fei
Published: February 2025

Low-temperature storage is an effective method to extend the shelf life of harvested winter jujube fruit; however, the quality of winter jujube fruit decreases after refrigeration. To enhance the quality of winter jujube with minimum qualitative deterioration during cold storage, this study investigated the effects of different melatonin concentration (100, 150, and 200 µmol/L) treatments on the storage quality of winter jujube (during the white ripening stage) at 0 ± 1 °C (RH, 90 ± 5%) for 90 days. The relative indexes of the fruit quality and the antioxidant system were measured every 15 days. The results showed that different concentrations of melatonin treatments could maintain the fruit’s firmness, retard the fruit’s redness, and inhibit the decrease in weight, total soluble solid (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), and the contents of total phenols, flavonoids, glutathione, and ascorbic acid; they also inhibited the increase in relative conductivity, malondialdehyde (MDA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content of jujube fruits and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR), and peroxidase (POD)). As a whole, the 200 µmol/L melatonin treatment had the best effect. Therefore, melatonin treatment can maintain the cold-stored quality of postharvest winter jujube by improving its antioxidant capacity.
Calcium and Boron Foliar Fertilizer to Relieve Cracking of ‘Liuyuezao’ Pummelos
Authors: Du Kaiyang , Lin Han , Luo Qin , Li Tao , Wu Hongyu , Wang Bin , Guo Zhixiong , Pan Tengfei , She Wenqin
Published: February 2025

‘Liuyuezao’ pummelo is highly prone to cracking, which seriously affects its quality. The aim of this study was to illustrate the effect of foliar sprays of calcium (Ca) and boron (B) and their combined treatments on the fruit cracking and quality of ‘Liuyuezao’ pummelos during the fruit expansion period (40–55 days after flowering). Analysis of 12 mineral elements of the pericarp by ICP-MS revealed that the three treatments significantly increased the content of calcium and boron in the corresponding pericarp. These treatments effectively reduced the enzyme activities of pectin methylesterase (PME), polygalacturonase (PG), pectin lyase (PL), β-galactosidase (β-Gal), and cellulase (Cx) in the peel and down-regulated the expression of corresponding cell wall-degrading enzyme genes. Calcium, boron, and their combination treatments reduced water-soluble pectin (WSP) in the peel. Simultaneously, they inhibited the degradation of CDTA-soluble pectin (CSP) and Na₂CO₃-soluble pectin (NSP), thereby stabilizing the cell wall structure. Additionally, these treatments enhanced fruit skin break force (Bf) and elasticity (Ela), ultimately decreasing the fruit cracking rate. Diversification analysis showed that Ca and B elements significantly increased the sugar and vitamin C (Vc) content of ‘Liuyuezao’ pummelo fruits and reduced their organic acid content, thus improving fruit quality. The study provides new ideas on the use of fertilizer interactions to control fruit cracking and improve the quality of the pummelo fruit.
Innovative Antifungal and Food Preservation Potential of Eucalyptus citriodora Essential Oil in Combination with Modified Potato Peel Starch
Authors: Khan Nabila , Fatima Saeeda , Sadiq Muhammad Bilal
Published: February 2025

The quest for natural preservation systems is on the rise due to health hazards associated with synthetic preservatives. The current study explores a significant research gap by investigating the antifungal potential of Eucalyptus citriodora essential oil (EO) and modified potato peel starch (M-PPS)-based coatings to control the fungal contamination in peanut kernels, providing a sustainable food preservation system. Potato peel starch was extracted by water steeping and modified by autoclaving. E. citriodora EO was extracted from leaves by steam distillation and chemically characterized using a gas chromatography mass spectrometer (GC-MS). The antifungal potential of EO was evaluated by radial growth inhibition assay (RGI). EO completely inhibited the growths of Penicillium griseofulvum and Aspergillus niger at a concentration of 3.125 µL/mL, which was marked as the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC). EO induced cellular leakage from fungal cells, and hyphae became pitted, indicating the strong antifungal potential of EO. EO (2 ×MIC)-treated rice seeds showed complete inhibition of A. niger after 7 days of incubation, and in the control treatments, all the rice seeds were contaminated (100% contamination index). M-PPS and EO-based coatings controlled the growth of P. griseofulvum in peanut kernels. After incubation for 7 days, control treatments were fully contaminated with fungal growth, whereas the M-PPS and EO-based coatings restricted the growth of fungi in peanut kernels. The M-PPS and EO-based preservation system can be used for the preservation of perishable food products.
Comprehensive Profiling of Free Proteinogenic and Non-Proteinogenic Amino Acids in Common Legumes Using LC-QToF: Targeted and Non-Targeted Approaches
Authors: Avula Bharathi , Katragunta Kumar , Parveen Iffat , Tatapudi Kiran Kumar , Chittiboyina Amar G. , Wang Yan-Hong , Khan Ikhlas A.
Published: February 2025

Legumes, a dietary staple for centuries, have seen an influx of conventional and unconventional varieties to cater to human care conscious consumers. These legumes often undergo pretreatments like baking, soaking, or boiling to mitigate the presence of non-proteinogenic amino acids (NPAAs) and reduce associated health risks. The recent tara flour health scare, linked to the NPAA baikiain, emphasizes the need for robust analytical methods to ensure the safety and quality of both traditional and novel plant-based protein alternatives. While traditional techniques provide insights into protein and non-proteinogenic amino acid profiles, modern liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) offers superior sensitivity and specificity for NPAA detection. This study employed an LC-QToF method with MS/MS analysis to comprehensively map the distribution of free NPAAs and proteinogenic amino acids (PAAs) in various legume samples. A total of 47 NPAAs and 20 PAAs were identified across the legume samples, with at least 7–14 NPAAs detected in each sample. Sulfur-containing NPAAs, such as S-methyl-L-cysteine, γ-glutamyl-S-methyl cysteine, and S-methyl homoglutathione, were predominantly found in Phaseolus and Vigna species. Cysteine and methionine were the sulfur-containing PAAs identified. Gel electrophoresis and soluble protein quantification were also conducted to understand legume protein composition holistically. This orthogonal approach provides a valuable tool for ensuring the overall quality of plant-based proteins and may aid in investigating food poisoning or outbreaks related to such products.
Microbial Electrolysis Cells for H2 Generation by Treating Acid Mine Drainage: Recent Advances and Emerging Trends
Authors: Cui Wenwen , Yin Shunde
Published: February 2025

Microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) are receiving increasing scholarly recognition for their capacity to simultaneously remediate contaminated streams and generate renewable hydrogen. Within the realm of acid mine drainage (AMD) treatment, MECs demonstrate pronounced advantages by merging pollutant mitigation with hydrogen production, thereby attracting intensified research interest. Drawing on 1321 pertinent publications extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection (2004–2024), this bibliometric assessment systematically elucidates the current research landscape and prospective directions in MEC-based AMD remediation and H2 synthesis. Key thematic areas encompass (1) a detailed appraisal of distinctive publication dynamics within this specialized domain; (2) insights into the principal contributing nations, institutions, journals, and academic fields; and (3) a synthesized overview of technological milestones, emerging investigative foci, and prospective developmental pathways. By critically reviewing extant knowledge, this evaluation offers meaningful guidance to researchers newly engaging with MEC-driven AMD treatment while illuminating the technological trajectories poised to shape the future of this evolving field.
Cryogenic Facility for Prototyping ET-LF Payloads Using Conductive Cooling
Authors: Ricci Marco , Benedetti Eugenio , Cruciani Angelo , Hoang Van Long , Kalemi Benedetta , Naticchioni Luca , Orsini Marco , Pirro Stefano , Puppo Paola , Rapagnani Piero , Ricci Fulvio , Tofani Emanuele , Majorana Ettore
Published: February 2025

Cooling down large test masses up to 200 kg, as foreseen for the Einstein Telescope, is a complex challenge combining cutting-edge technological achievements from different disciplines with the experience gained from both room-temperature and cryogenic-temperature detector development communities. We set up an apparatus designed to test cryogenic mechanical suspensions for the payload system. They should have high quality factors and enable sufficient heat extraction greater than 0.3 W. The facility is on a university campus where cryofluid servicing is not feasible. As a result, a system that incorporates conductive cooling technology was developed. The project has two main goals: validating crystalline suspensions in a realistic Einstein Telescope cryogenic payload and testing new solutions for radiative thermal shielding. No particular measures are planned for the vibration isolation system.
Advanced Hydrogel Systems for Local Anesthetic Delivery: Toward Prolonged and Targeted Pain Relief
Authors: Jeong Jin-Oh , Kim Minjoo , Kim Seonwook , Lee Kyung Kwan , Choi Hoon
Published: February 2025

Local anesthetics (LAs) have been indispensable in clinical pain management, yet their limitations, such as short duration of action and systemic toxicity, necessitate improved delivery strategies. Hydrogels, with their biocompatibility, tunable properties, and ability to modulate drug release, have been extensively explored as platforms for enhancing LA efficacy and safety. This narrative review explores the historical development of LAs, their physicochemical properties, and clinical applications, providing a foundation for understanding the integration of hydrogels in anesthetic delivery. Advances in thermoresponsive, stimuli-responsive, and multifunctional hydrogels have demonstrated significant potential in prolonging analgesia and reducing systemic exposure in preclinical studies, while early clinical findings highlight the feasibility of thermoresponsive hydrogel formulations. Despite these advancements, challenges such as burst release, mechanical instability, and regulatory considerations remain critical barriers to clinical translation. Emerging innovations, including nanocomposite hydrogels, biofunctionalized matrices, and smart materials, offer potential solutions to these limitations. Future research should focus on optimizing hydrogel formulations, expanding clinical validation, and integrating advanced fabrication technologies such as 3D printing and artificial intelligence-driven design to enhance personalized pain management. By bridging materials science and anesthetic pharmacology, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on current trends and future directions in hydrogel-based LA delivery systems.
When Distance Keeps Families Apart: The Complexities of Visiting Emigrant Children
Authors: Ferreira Sulette
Published: February 2025

Migration has become an inescapable reality affecting South African families, extending its impact far beyond the immigrant to those staying behind. The geographical separation of parents from their adult children and grandchildren significantly alters family dynamics, creating logistical and emotional challenges. Participants in this study reveal a deeply felt need to physically reconnect with their loved ones, emphasizing the emotional solace derived from in-person interactions. The enduring parent-child bond motivates family members to find meaningful ways to maintain their connections across vast distances and differing time zones. Transnational visits serve as a crucial lifeline, enabling parents to experience their children’s new environments and strengthen bonds with their grandchildren. This article draws upon ongoing qualitative research exploring the lived experiences of South African parents with emigrant children and grandchildren, focusing on the barriers that hinder these transnational visits. It focusses on parents’ unique experiences travelling to visit their emigrant children, rather than return visits. While they are essential for sustaining familial bonds, visits are deeply layered experiences, shaped by financial constraints, the logistical complexities of long-distance travel and the emotional weight of farewells. These factors have the potential to render visits infrequent and emotionally complex.
Tools for Predicting Long Runout Landslides
Authors: Santi Paul , Lockyear Russell , McKenna Jon , Scheevel Caroline , Wallace Cory
Published: February 2025

One of the most important issues in landslide hazard management is predicting the runout of a landslide event. Current technology and modeling help to analyze landslides in terms of overall stability, triggers, and sensitivity to environmental changes, but the length of the runout remains a difficult variable to predict. In this study, we review how runout is measured and conclude that the landslide length divided by the square root of the landslide area is a value that scales well and also is not biased by the overall topographic slope. The more common measurement of runout, i.e., landslide height divided by length, is biased by topography, yet correlates well to specific predictive parameters. Next, we explore tools to predict landslide runout. Regional inventories of landslides can establish typical runout ranges as a function of the landslide area. The soil density can be used predict contractive behavior and flow-like responses in long runout landslides. Topographic curvature also correlates to runout, with concave slopes that accumulate moisture being more likely to generate long runout events. Sites with previous landslide movement are likely to travel farther upon reactivation, as are landslide sites close to water sources and those with larger upslope contributing areas.
Enhancing Preparedness and Resilience for Seismic Risk Reduction: The “Minoas 2024” Full-Scale Exercise for Earthquakes and Related Geohazards in Crete (Southern Greece)
Authors: Mavroulis Spyridon , Lekkas Efthymios , Grambas Alexia , Mavrouli Maria , Mokos Vasileios , Kourou Asimina , Thoma Thekla , Karagiannis Fotis , Stamati Eleftheria , Kaviris George , Kouskouna Vasiliki , Lozios Stylianos , Vassilakis Emmanuel , Kalligeris Nikos , Charalampakis Marinos , Stefanou Nikos
Published: February 2025

In early 2024, the largest full-scale exercise (FSE) for earthquakes and related geohazards in Greece was implemented in Crete Island (southern Greece). Crete is characterized by intense seismicity with historical and recent destructive earthquakes with considerable impact on both the natural and built environment and subsequently on the population. The uniqueness of this FSE lies in the creation and coordination of a multi-agency, multijurisdictional, and multidisciplinary environment in which a multitude of central, regional, and local stakeholders and a large percentage of the total population of Crete actively participated. This paper constitutes a descriptive study focusing on the main steps of the exercise management cycle comprising planning, implementation, and evaluation of the FSE. Furthermore, emphasis is given on its purpose and objectives, its main events and subsequent incidents, the participants and their roles, as well as the material developed and distributed to the participants. Through this study, the implemented actions for increasing preparedness of the Civil Protection mechanism in case of earthquakes and related geohazards are highlighted aiming to inform the scientific community and operational staff and to contribute to the seismic risk reduction of regions worldwide with similar seismotectonic and demographic characteristics with Crete. Furthermore, suggestions are made for the integration of multi-hazard episodes in the FSE scenario in order that the Civil Protection authorities will be prepared to handle the synergy of hazards of different types that may arise during a post-earthquake period that create compounding challenges during the emergency response and further increase recovery time.
Medicine, Crime and Realism in Ouida’s ‘Toxin’ (1895)
Authors: Benson James Louise
Published: February 2025

In 1895, Ouida published a short story called ‘Toxin’ in the Illustrated London News which prompted an outraged response from the British medical establishment. In their words, this tale of an English surgeon who decides to murder his patient depicts ‘the search after scientific truth as naturally leading to crime’. The British Medical Journal considered Ouida’s story ‘an attack […] on the medical profession’. This article analyses the story and the BMJ’s response, considering it in relation to crime fiction and realism. It further looks at reports of medical crimes in the late-nineteenth century, and considers Ouida’s deployment of diphtheria, a virulent epidemic of its time, through reports of the recently discovered cure in medical journals and the popular press. I argue that the reason the BMJ felt so threatened by her depiction of a murderous doctor is in great part due to Ouida’s attention to medical realism: the threat of fiction’s entanglement with the real.
(Il)legible Orthodoxy: Diligence and Impertinence Before Inquisitorial Curiosity
Authors: Phipps Kathryn
Published: February 2025

This article proposes the Spanish Inquisition as a site of productive conflict between the polyvalent significations of curiosity in early modern Spain. On one hand, the Spanish Inquisition promoted curiosity through diligent inquiry, while on the other it prosecuted those whose curiosity led them to impertinence. This article examines the significance of an archival curiosity whose dubious relevance within the archive highlights its fundamental illegibility before Inquisitorial curiosity. This article argues that despite an ethos of apparent orthodoxy and cryptic invitations to curious readers, the manuscript ultimately fails to prompt Inquisitorial inquiry and itself becomes designated as “Escrito curioso por su valor caligráfico” by an unidentified archivist. Impertinent as an archival misfit and insolent in its failure to adhere to standards of confession, the “Escrito curioso’s” playful provocations invite a diligent reader to peruse its depths, only to find obstinate opacities nestled within the umbrage of orthodoxy. Ultimately, the article contends that the “Escrito curioso” ironically elucidates the Inquisition’s paradoxical dependence upon the heretical curiosity it condemned. As a diligent expression of undying faithfulness to the Church and her Inquisition, it is relegated to the forgotten margins of the Holy Office’s operations.
Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Associated with BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine in a Kidney Transplant Recipient: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Pattonieri Eleonora Francesca , Gregorini Marilena , Grignano Maria Antonietta , Islami Tefik , D’Ambrosio Gioacchino , Ardissino Gianluigi , Rampino Teresa
Published: February 2025

Case Report: We report a case of a 37-year-old female with kidney transplant, who was admitted at our hospital due to worsening renal function, nephrotic proteinuria, and anemia developed 21 days after the second dose of BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech). Laboratory tests revealed hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury. Given the clinical picture of Thrombotic Micro-angiopathy (TMA) and severe renal impairment, plasma exchange (PEX) and dialysis were immediately started. Laboratory workup showed low C3 and C4 levels, normal activity of ADAMTS13, and the absence of anti-factor H antibodies. Molecular biology investigations revealed a heterozygous variant in exon 22 (SCR20) of the CFH gene (c.3628C>T; p.Arg1210Cys) described as an atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) causative mutation. Our patient completed two sessions of PEX followed by eculizumab treatment with hematological improvement but no recovery of renal function. This is the first reported case of aHUS triggered by SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in a kidney transplant patient without recovery of renal function. Conclusion: Although rare, clinicians should be aware of possible nephrological complications that may appear after vaccination.
Comparative Analysis of Submaximal and Maximal Effort Capacities in Patients Post-COVID-19 and Individuals with Chronic Restrictive Lung Diseases
Authors: Rosa Karissa Yasmim Araújo , de Melo Felipe Xavier , Riscado Fernanda Lara Fernandes Bonner Araújo , Oliveira Rodrigo F. , Oliveira Deise A. A. P. , Oliveira-Silva Iransé , Oliveira Luís V. F. , Santos Dante Brasil
Published: February 2025

Whether impairments in submaximal and maximal effort capacities in individuals following acute COVID-19 infection resemble those found in patients with chronic pulmonary disease remains unclear. We aimed to analyze the submaximal and maximal effort capacities of patients after COVID-19 infection and those with alterations in lung mechanics similar to those observed in patients with chronic respiratory diseases. This retrospective cross-sectional observational study paired a group of post-COVID-19 individuals with another group of patients with chronic respiratory disease, using spirometric patterns similar to those observed post-COVID-19. Data from Spirometry, 6 min walk test (6-MWT), and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) variables were compared, and correlations between spirometric variables and 6-WT/CPET were examined. The final sample comprised 20 patients, including 10 post-COVID-19 patients with a restrictive lung disease (RLD) pattern identified using spirometry and 10 patients with RLD. Both groups presented similar patterns of the analyzed variables, with significant correlations observed between forced vital capacity (FVC) the distance and speed achieved during the 6-MWT, and a negative correlation between FVC and V’ E max. The degree of restriction in the overall sample influenced the covered distance and speed during the 6-MWT as well as the maximum minute ventilation during maximal effort.