bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building Water Quality Commissioning in Healthcare Settings: Reducing Legionella and Water Contaminants Utilizing a Construction Scheduling Method
Authors: Scanlon Molly M. , Gordon James L. , Reynolds Kelly A.
Published: October 2023

Construction activities in healthcare settings potentially expose building occupants to life-threatening waterborne pathogens, including Legionella. The lack of a building water quality commissioning (BWQC) process has been identified as a substantial construction risk factor associated with disease cases and deaths. A BWQC schedule method was developed as a technical note to address gaps between the construction, commissioning, and operation phases of work to establish water quality and safety for a building water distribution system. The BWQC schedule method enables healthcare organizations to meet commissioning criteria set forth in guidelines and regulatory requirements for implementing a water management program (WMP) prior to initiating patient care operations. The authors used Office Timeline® Pro+Edition V7.02, Office Timeline LLC, Bellevue WA 98004, USA to depict a Gantt chart as a BWQC schedule listing key project tasks and milestones of construction and water management activities. Design and construction professionals, in conjunction with healthcare organizations, should examine the BWQC construction schedule method and customize it for project-specific implementation. Additionally, building owners should consider incorporating the method into an organization’s construction policies for a standardized approach to BWQC practices.
Identifying Emerging Technologies and Skills Required for Construction 4.0
Authors: Souza Alex Sander Clemente de , Debs Luciana
Published: October 2023

Connectivity, digitization, and emerging Industry 4.0 technology such as AI, automation, robotics, IoT, and cyber-physical space have transformed social relations, the means of production, and the world of labor. The construction industry has also been transformed by Industry 4.0 technologies, mainly through Building Information Modeling (BIM)-based digitization. This revolution in the construction industry has been called Construction 4.0 and is based on the use of innovative technologies that promote digitalization and automation of design, construction, and management processes. Furthermore, the workforce for the construction industry in the context of Construction 4.0 must have adequate skills for this new scenario. Previous literature reviews have analyzed the idea of transitioning the construction industry to Construction 4.0 and implementing specific technologies in the industry. However, there has been limited exploration of the skills necessary for the Construction 4.0 workforce. This article aims to address this gap by identifying the technologies and skills that have been scientifically researched and applied in the construction industry, specifically related to the concepts of Industry 4.0 and Construction 4.0. Utilizing a scoping literature review in the Scopus database, this study seeks to identify: (i) emergent C4.0 technologies in the AEC industry; and (ii) which skills or competencies are demanded when using these technologies. All of our bibliographical searches are inserted and restricted to the concept of Construction 4.0. A total of 108 articles related to technologies and 15 related to skills in the Construction 4.0 context were selected for analysis. Twenty-one technologies were identified and grouped into five sets according to their similarities and applications: AI-assisted technologies, Advanced manufacture, Smart tools, Digital simulation/Visualization, and Data acquisition/detection. The skills were identified and grouped into soft and hard skills. However, the findings point out that the new skills needed by the workforce are described in a dispersed way, without a central theme of research in the context of Construction 4.0. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the transformations towards Construction 4.0 and provide data for industry and universities to respond appropriately to the new demands of the construction industry.
A Comparative Study on the Sustainable Evaluation of DGNB and G-SEED Focusing on IEQ Enhancement
Authors: Gültekin Aysenur , Park Jihyun
Published: October 2023

This paper aims to compare the sustainability assessment methods of DGNB and G-SEED, the two domestic green building rating systems, focusing on indoor environmental evaluation and reviewing recent laws, certifications systems, and guidelines from Germany and South Korea. According to existing studies, Korea’s green building certification has similar evaluation items, environmental (62.6%), social aspects (25.4%), and economic aspects (3.0%) compared with DGNB. Continuing research comparing DGNB and G-SEED, this paper will present an insight into the DGNB and G-SEED green building rating systems’ aspects and motives; furthermore, we intend to equate the sustainability assessment methods of the DGNB and G-SEED certification systems, in order to improve certification systems by comparing and finding solutions to differences, thereby making international systems more adaptable to each country. This analysis will unify property categorization systems and will promote green building and sustainable development globally. Findings: Regarding similarities and differences, the certification criteria for air, thermal, visual/light, and acoustic quality are based on domestic laws in both countries. DGNB and G-SEED are similar in terms of the requirements but differ in methods and domestic laws. Some findings regarding differences are that DGNB requires low VOC-emitting products, while G-SEED focuses on natural ventilation. Thermal comfort is measured through design-phase simulation in DGNB, while G-SEED lighting is evaluated on the basis of saving light energy. Finally, in G-SEED, acoustic quality is measured via indoor soundproofing performance, while DGNB takes room size into account.
Potential Therapeutic Use of Stem Cells for Prion Diseases
Authors: Zayed Mohammed , Kook Sung-Ho , Jeong Byung-Hoon
Published: October 2023

Prion diseases are neurodegenerative disorders that are progressive, incurable, and deadly. The prion consists of PrPSc, the misfolded pathogenic isoform of the cellular prion protein (PrPC). PrPC is involved in a variety of physiological functions, including cellular proliferation, adhesion, differentiation, and neural development. Prion protein is expressed on the membrane surface of a variety of stem cells (SCs), where it plays an important role in the pluripotency and self-renewal matrix, as well as in SC differentiation. SCs have been found to multiply the pathogenic form of the prion protein, implying their potential as an in vitro model for prion diseases. Furthermore, due to their capability to self-renew, differentiate, immunomodulate, and regenerate tissue, SCs are prospective cell treatments in many neurodegenerative conditions, including prion diseases. Regenerative medicine has become a new revolution in disease treatment in recent years, particularly with the introduction of SC therapy. Here, we review the data demonstrating prion diseases’ biology and molecular mechanism. SC biology, therapeutic potential, and its role in understanding prion disease mechanisms are highlighted. Moreover, we summarize preclinical studies that use SCs in prion diseases.
The Study of the Caudal Vertebrae of Thick-Toed Geckos after a Prolonged Space Flight by X-ray Phase-Contrast Micro-CT
Authors: Bukreeva Inna , Gulimova Victoria I. , Krivonosov Yuri S. , Buzmakov Alexey V. , Junemann Olga , Cedola Alessia , Fratini Michela , Maugeri Laura , Begani Provinciali Ginevra , Palermo Francesca , Sanna Alessia , Pieroni Nicola , Asadchikov Victor E. , Saveliev Sergey V.
Published: October 2023

The proximal caudal vertebrae and notochord in thick-toed geckos (TG) (Chondrodactylus turneri, Gray, 1864) were investigated after a 30-day space flight onboard the biosatellite Bion-M1. This region has not been explored in previous studies. Our research focused on finding sites most affected by demineralization caused by microgravity (G0). We used X-ray phase-contrast tomography to study TG samples without invasive prior preparation to clarify our previous findings on the resistance of TG’s bones to demineralization in G0. The results of the present study confirmed that geckos are capable of preserving bone mass after flight, as neither cortical nor trabecular bone volume fraction showed statistically significant changes after flight. On the other hand, we observed a clear decrease in the mineralization of the notochordal septum and a substantial rise in intercentrum volume following the flight. To monitor TG’s mineral metabolism in G0, we propose to measure the volume of mineralized tissue in the notochordal septum. This technique holds promise as a sensitive approach to track the demineralization process in G0, given that the volume of calcification within the septum is limited, making it easy to detect even slight changes in mineral content.
Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effect of High-Dose Immunoglobulins in Children: From Approved Indications to Off-Label Use
Authors: Conti Francesca , Moratti Mattia , Leonardi Lucia , Catelli Arianna , Bortolamedi Elisa , Filice Emanuele , Fetta Anna , Fabi Marianna , Facchini Elena , Cantarini Maria Elena , Miniaci Angela , Cordelli Duccio Maria , Lanari Marcello , Pession Andrea , Zama Daniele
Published: October 2023

Background: The large-scale utilization of immunoglobulins in patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) since 1952 prompted the discovery of their key role at high doses as immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory therapy, in the treatment of IEI-related immune dysregulation disorders, according to labelled and off-label indications. Recent years have been dominated by a progressive imbalance between the gradual but constant increase in the use of immunoglobulins and their availability, exacerbated by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Objectives: To provide pragmatic indications for a need-based application of high-dose immunoglobulins in the pediatric context. Sources: A literature search was performed using PubMed, from inception until 1st August 2023, including the following keywords: anti-inflammatory; children; high dose gammaglobulin; high dose immunoglobulin; immune dysregulation; immunomodulation; immunomodulatory; inflammation; intravenous gammaglobulin; intravenous immunoglobulin; off-label; pediatric; subcutaneous gammaglobulin; subcutaneous immunoglobulin. All article types were considered. Implications: In the light of the current imbalance between gammaglobulins’ demand and availability, this review advocates the urgency of a more conscious utilization of this medical product, giving indications about benefits, risks, cost-effectiveness, and administration routes of high-dose immunoglobulins in children with hematologic, neurologic, and inflammatory immune dysregulation disorders, prompting further research towards a responsible employment of gammaglobulins and improving the therapeutical decisional process.
Organizational Health Literacy as a Tool for Health Equity: Application in a High-Risk Infant Follow-Up Program
Authors: Rosenfeld Lindsay E. , McCullagh Kelly , King Carolyn J. , Torres Micaela , Litt Jonathan S.
Published: October 2023

Background: Healthy People 2030 emphasizes personal health literacy (individual skills) and organizational health literacy—the degree to which organizations equitably enable individuals to find, understand, and use information and services to inform health-related decisions and actions for themselves and others. However, research on the latter is in the early stages. Methods: This study describes an organizational health literacy assessment in a U.S. urban academic children’s hospital. A variety of evidence-based health literacy assessments were used to assess patient information materials and the environment, including institutional practices, navigation, culture and language, and communication. Trained interviewers and analysts reached consensus for all assessments. Results: Information Items: SMOG scores (n = 9) ranged from 7th- to 14th-grade reading level (average = 11.3). PEMAT-P scores (n = 9) ranged from 43.8% to 93.8% understandability and 0% to 80% actionability. CDC CCI scores (literacy demand) (n = 6) ranged from 18.2% to 58.8% (≥90% = excellent). SAM scores (suitability) (n = 6) fell in the “adequate” range (43.2–58.3%). The PMOSE/IKIRSCH scores (complexity) (n = 3) noted low-moderate difficulty. Apter’s Hierarchy (n = 4) revealed three numeracy domains (50% = descriptive purposes and decision-making, 100% = interpreting information). Organization-level: Walking interviews highlighted organizational facilitators and barriers related to the pre-visit and visit environments. HLE2 domain scores ranged from 52% to 68%. Conclusions: Organizational health literacy demands far outweigh the average literacy skills of adults in the U.S. (patients and staff). Findings can be used to hone quality improvement and other processes to focus on structural solutions to increase health equity.
Relationship between Physical Activity, Mediterranean Diet and Emotional Intelligence in Spanish Primary Education Students
Authors: Sanz-Martín Daniel , Zurita-Ortega Félix , Puertas-Molero Pilar , Caracuel-Cáliz Rafael , Alonso-Vargas José Manuel , Melguizo-Ibáñez Eduardo
Published: October 2023

There is an international social concern about the low levels of physical activity among young people. It is essential to know what factors influence the practice of physical activity in order to design effective proposals for health promotion. The study aims to: (1) classify primary school students according to their levels of out-of-school physical activity, Mediterranean diet, emotional attention, emotional clarity and emotional repair; (2) analyse descriptively and correlationally the adolescents’ profiles of out-of-school physical activity, Mediterranean diet and emotional attention, clarity and repair. The study design was cross-sectional and descriptive–correlational. The sample consisted of 293 children aged 10–12 years in Granada (Spain). An ad hoc socio-academic questionnaire, the KIDMED test and the Trait Meta-Mood Scale (TMMS-24) were used for data collection. Four clusters were identified by the Ward’s method and participants were classified using the K-means method. Subsequently, cluster classification was validated through the MANOVA test (F (861) = 106.12; p ≤ 0.001; f = 1.95). The strongest correlation was obtained in cluster 1 between emotional clarity and emotional repair (r = 0.56; p ≤ 0.01). In conclusion, the mean values of time spent in out-of-school physical activity, Mediterranean diet, emotional attention, emotional clarity and emotional repair of students are adequate and vary according to sex. There are significant differences among the physical activity levels of all clusters, as well as among the emotional variables of attention, clarity and repair. In addition, the correlations between the variables studied vary in each cluster.
Analysis of Surface Topography Changes during Friction Testing in Cold Metal Forming of DC03 Steel Samples
Authors: Trzepieciński Tomasz , Szwajka Krzysztof , Szewczyk Marek
Published: October 2023

Predicting changes in the surface roughness caused by friction allows the quality of the product and the suitability of the surface for final treatments of varnishing or painting to be assessed. The results of changes in the surface roughness of DC03 steel sheets after friction testing are presented in this paper. Strip drawing tests with a flat die and forced oil pressure lubrication were carried out. The experiments were conducted under various contact pressures and lubricant pressures, and lubrication was carried out using various oils intended for deep-drawing operations. Multilayer perceptrons (MLPs) were used to find relationships between friction process parameters and other parameters (Sa, Ssk and Sku). The following statistical measures of contact force were used as inputs in MLPs: the average value of contact force, standard deviation, kurtosis and skewness. Many analyses were carried out in order to find the best network. It was found that the lubricant pressure and lubricant viscosity most significantly affected the value of the roughness parameter, Sa, of the sheet metal after the friction process. Increasing the lubricant pressure reduced the average roughness parameter (Sa). In contrast, skewness (Ssk) increased with increasing lubrication pressure. The kurtosis (Sku) of the sheet surface after the friction process was the most affected by the value of contact force and lubricant pressure.
Microstructure and High-Temperature Properties of Cr3C2-25NiCr Nanoceramic Coatings Prepared by HVAF
Authors: Zhou Zhiqiang , Duan Dajun , Li Shulan , Sun Deen , Yong Jiahui , Jiang Yongbing , He Wu , Xu Jian
Published: October 2023

The study examines the microstructure and high-temperature properties of Cr3C2-25NiCr nanoceramic coatings on 316H high-temperature-resistant stainless steel that were prepared by high-velocity air–fuel spraying (HVAF) technology. The micromorphology, phase composition, fracture toughness, high-temperature hardness, high-temperature friction, and wear properties of the coating were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-temperature Vickers hardness tester, high-temperature friction and wear tester, and surface profiler. The results show that the Cr3C2-25NiCr coating prepared by HVAF presents a typical thermal spraying coating structure, with a dense structure and a porosity of only 0.34%. The coating consists of a Cr3C2 hard phase, a NiCr bonding phase, and a small amount of Cr7C3 phase; The average microhardness of the coating at room temperature is 998.8 HV0.3, which is about five times higher than that of 316H substrate. The Weibull distribution of the coating is unimodal, showing stable mechanical properties. The average microhardness values of the coating at 450 °C, 550 °C, 650 °C, and 750 °C are 840 HV0.3, 811 HV0.3, 729 HV0.3, and 696 HV0.3 respectively. The average friction coefficient of the Cr3C2-25NiCr coating initially decreases and then increases with temperature. During high-temperature friction and wear, a dark gray oxide film forms on the coating surface. The formation speed of the oxide film accelerates with increasing temperature, shortening the running-in period of the coating. The oxide film acts as a lubricant, reducing the friction coefficient of the coating. The Cr3C2-25NiCr coating exhibits exceptional high-temperature friction and wear resistance, primarily through oxidative wear. The Cr3C2-25NiCr coating exhibits outstanding high-temperature friction and wear resistance, with oxidative wear being the primary wear mechanism at elevated temperatures.
Cervical Cancer Diagnosis Using Stacked Ensemble Model and Optimized Feature Selection: An Explainable Artificial Intelligence Approach
Authors: AlMohimeed Abdulaziz , Saleh Hager , Mostafa Sherif , Saad Redhwan M. A. , Talaat Amira Samy
Published: October 2023

Cervical cancer affects more than half a million women worldwide each year and causes over 300,000 deaths. The main goals of this paper are to study the effect of applying feature selection methods with stacking models for the prediction of cervical cancer, propose stacking ensemble learning that combines different models with meta-learners to predict cervical cancer, and explore the black-box of the stacking model with the best-optimized features using explainable artificial intelligence (XAI). A cervical cancer dataset from the machine learning repository (UCI) that is highly imbalanced and contains missing values is used. Therefore, SMOTE-Tomek was used to combine under-sampling and over-sampling to handle imbalanced data, and pre-processing steps are implemented to hold missing values. Bayesian optimization optimizes models and selects the best model architecture. Chi-square scores, recursive feature removal, and tree-based feature selection are three feature selection techniques that are applied to the dataset For determining the factors that are most crucial for predicting cervical cancer, the stacking model is extended to multiple levels: Level 1 (multiple base learners) and Level 2 (meta-learner). At Level 1, stacking (training and testing stacking) is employed for combining the output of multi-base models, while training stacking is used to train meta-learner models at level 2. Testing stacking is used to evaluate meta-learner models. The results showed that based on the selected features from recursive feature elimination (RFE), the stacking model has higher accuracy, precision, recall, f1-score, and AUC. Furthermore, To assure the efficiency, efficacy, and reliability of the produced model, local and global explanations are provided.
Combining Spatial–Temporal Remote Sensing and Human Footprint Indices to Identify Biodiversity Conservation Hotspots
Authors: Lu Yuting , Wang Hong , Zhang Yao , Liu Jiahao , Qu Tengfei , Zhao Xili , Tian Haozhe , Su Jingru , Luo Dingsheng , Yang Yalei
Published: October 2023

Considering Inner Mongolia as the study area, the ecological theory of climate change, and human activities affecting a wide range of biodiversity patterns, MODIS multi-timeseries remote sensing image data were used and the interannual variation index was obtained by the method of fitting the curve to obtain the annual phenological and seasonal indicators. At the same time, the Landsat 8 standard deviation image was calculated to obtain the spatial variation index and generate spatial–temporal remote sensing indices to quantify the threat of climate change to biodiversity. In addition, the impact of human activities on biodiversity was quantified by generating a map of the human footprint in Inner Mongolia. The spatial–temporal remote sensing index and the human footprint index were integrated to identify areas protected from climate change and human activities, respectively. Eventually, the hotspot areas of biodiversity conservation in Inner Mongolia were obtained and priority protected area planning was based on the hotspot identification results. In this study, remote sensing technology was used to identify biodiversity conservation hotspots, which can overcome the limitations of insufficient species data from the past, improve the reliability of large-scale biodiversity conservation analyses, and be used for targeted management actions that have practical significance for biodiversity conservation planning.
Power-Flow Simulations for Integrating Renewable Distributed Generation from Biogas, Photovoltaic, and Small Wind Sources on an Underground Distribution Feeder
Authors: Bassi Welson , Cordeiro Igor , Sauer Ildo Luis
Published: October 2023

The rapid expansion of distributed generation leads to the integration of an increasing number of energy generation sources. However, integrating these sources into electrical distribution networks presents specific challenges to ensure that the distribution networks can effectively accommodate the associated distributed energy and power. Thus, it is crucial to evaluate the electrical effects of power along the conductors, components, and loads. Power-flow analysis is a well-established numerical methodology for assessing parameters and quantities within power systems during steady-state operation. The University of São Paulo’s Cidade Universitária “Armando de Salles Oliveira” (CUASO) campus in São Paulo, Brazil, features an underground power distribution system. The Institute of Energy and Environment (IEE) leads the integration of several distributed generation (DG) sources, including a biogas plant, photovoltaic installations, and a small wind turbine, into one of the CUASO’s feeders, referred to as “USP-105”. Load-flow simulations were conducted using the PowerWorldTM Simulator v.23, considering the interconnection of these sources. This dataset provides comprehensive information and computational files utilized in the simulations. It serves as a valuable resource for reanalysis, didactic purposes, and the dissemination of technical insights related to DG implementation.
An Evaluation of the Design Parameters of a Variable Bearing Profile Considering Journal Perturbation in Rotor–Bearing Systems
Authors: Hamzah Adawiya Ali , Abbas Abbas Fadhil , Mohammed M. N. , Aljibori H. S. S. , Jamali Hazim U. , Abdullah Oday I.
Published: October 2023

A variety of bearing profile designs can be used to improve the performance of a rotor–bearing system in severe conditions, such as operating with a shaft misalignment. Misalignments usually occur due to a deformation of the journal, bearing wear, and installation errors. This paper investigates the effects of bearing design parameters under a 3D journal misalignment for a wide range of length-to-diameter ratios to consider short, finite-length, and long journal bearings. Furthermore, the dynamic response of the system to journal perturbation considering linear and parabolic bearing profiles is also investigated. A numerical solution is identified based on the finite difference method, and the equations of motion are derived based on a linear stability analysis in which the fourth-order Runge–Kutta method is used to obtain the journal trajectories. The results show that both profiles help to enhance the rotor–bearing system’s performance regarding the lubricant layer thickness and pressure distribution, in addition to the shaft critical speed over the entire considered range of length-to-diameter ratios. This enhancement reduces the misalignment negative effects on the system performance. The response of the rotor-bearing system to journal perturbation in the case of the parabolic profile are very close to the perfect alignment case in comparison with a linear modification.
The COVID-19 Pandemic: Changes in Parent–Child Activities at Home from Spring 2020 to Spring 2021 from a Cross-Cultural View
Authors: Meoded Karabanov Galia , Aram Dorit , López-Escribano Carmen , Shtereva Katerina , Asaf Merav , Ziv Margalit , Stites Michele Lee , Sonnenschein Susan
Published: October 2023

This study explored young children’s (2–8 years old) daily activities during the first lockdown with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic (spring/2020, T1) and a year later (spring/2021, T2) from a cross-cultural perspective. It describes parent–child literacy and digital activities in Bulgaria, Israel, and Spain. Participating parents (747 in T1 and 432 in T2) answered online questionnaires about the frequency of parent–child literacy activities (alphabetic, book reading, and play) and digital activities (joint activities, selecting content, scaffolding) and the child’s screen time. The findings indicated moderate parent–child literacy and digital activities during the time points. A series of ANCOVAs revealed differences between time periods and cultures beyond the demographic measures (child’s age, parent’s education and age, and family size). During the first lockdown, parent–child joint digital activities and the child’s screen time were higher than a year later. A year later, parents were more involved in book reading, literacy play activities, and scaffolding their children’s use of digital devices. Interactions between the period and culture showed that Bulgarian and Spanish parents were more involved in their children’s literacy and digital activities than Israeli parents. Spanish children had more independent screen time than Bulgarian and Israeli children. Associations between literacy and digital activities implied a consistent parenting style across the activities.
Content-Focused Formative Feedback Combining Achievement, Qualitative and Learning Analytics Data
Authors: Martinez Cecilia , Serra Ramiro , Sundaramoorthy Prem , Booij Thomas , Vertegaal Cornelis , Bounik Zahra , van Hastenberg Kevin , Bentum Mark
Published: October 2023

Research that integrates Learning Analytics (LA) with formative feedback has been shown to enhance student individual learning processes and performance. Debates on LA-based feedback highlight the need to further understand what data sources are appropriate for LA, how soon the feedback should be sent to students and how different types of feedback promote learning. This study describes an empirical case of LA-based feedback in higher education and analyzes how content-focused feedback promotes student achievement. The model combines quantitative achievement indicators with qualitative data about student learning challenges to develop feedback. Data sources include student pretest results, participation in practice exercises as well as midterm and final exam grades. In addition, in-depth interviews with high-, medium- and low-performing students are conducted to understand learning challenges. Based on their performance, students receive content-focused feedback every two weeks. The results show statistically significant improvements in final grades, in addition to a higher rate of problem-solving participation among students who receive feedback compared to their peers who opt out of the study. The contributions to the area of LA-based formative feedback are the following: (a) a model that combines quantitative with qualitative data sources to predict and understand student achievement challenges, (b) templates to design pedagogical and research-based formative feedback, (c) quantitative and qualitative positive results of the experience, (d) a documented case describing the practical implementation process.
Effect of Lignin Modification of Recycled and Fresh Wood Fibers on Physical, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties of Fiberboard
Authors: Gürsoy Samet , Ayrilmis Nadir
Published: October 2023

In this study, some physical properties; the thickness swelling, water absorption, surface absorption, formaldehyde emission, and some mechanical properties; internal bond strength, bending strength, bending modulus, and surface soundness of the MDF panels produced using recycled fibers obtained from the waste MDF and fresh wood fibers were investigated. Moreover, the effect of the kraft lignin modification to the recycled fibers and fresh fibers on the bond strength and mechanical properties of the MDF panels was determined. The results were compared with the MDF panels produced using fresh wood fibers. Although replacing fresh fiber with recycled fibers adversely affected the thickness swelling/water absorption (water resistance) and strength properties of fiberboard, the modification of the fibers using the lignin improved the properties of the fiberboard. The internal bond strength of the MDF produced with the 10 wt% recycled fibers modified at the 5 wt% and 7.5 wt% lignin contents was found to be higher than that of the specimens produced with 100 wt% fresh pine fibers. The formaldehyde emission of the MDF increased with increasing recycled fibers content. The lignin modification slightly decreased the formaldehyde emission of the MDF with the recycled fibers. Consequently, it can be said that the utilization of untreated recycled fibers decreased the mechanical properties of the MDF while the modification of these fibers using kraft lignin (5 wt% and 7.5 wt%) improved the mechanical properties, water resistance, and decreased formaldehyde emission of the MDF.
Exposure to Forest Air Monoterpenes with Pulmonary Function Tests in Adolescents with Asthma: A Cohort Study
Authors: Donelli Davide , Antonelli Michele , Baraldi Rita , Corli Anna , Finelli Franco , Gardini Federica , Margheritini Giovanni , Meneguzzo Francesco , Neri Luisa , Lazzeroni Davide , Ardissino Diego , Piacentini Giorgio , Zabini Federica , Cogo Annalisa
Published: October 2023

Increasing evidence supports the direct healing effects of forests, partly attributed to the exposure to plant-emitted monoterpenes available in the forest atmosphere. The potential benefits on respiratory functions from inhaling monoterpenes have gained attention, especially due to the global rise in respiratory diseases. This study involved 42 asthmatic adolescents attending a summer rehabilitation camp at an Altitude Pediatric Asthma Center within a densely forested area in the Eastern Italian Alps. Volatile organic compound measurements indicated a pristine atmosphere, enabling the modeling of continuous hourly monoterpene concentration. The monoterpene concentration exposure and total inhaled dose were assessed over a 14-day stay, during which spirometry, lung oscillometry, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide were measured. Statistically significant correlations were observed between modifications in lung function parameters among asthmatic adolescents and monoterpene exposure. These findings suggest a potential localized airway effect that is specific to monoterpenes. This pilot cohort study might pave the way for further investigations into the therapeutic effects of forest monoterpenes on lung function tests, asthma, and the broader healing potential of forest environments.
The Effect of Soaking Root Fertilizer on Promoting the Seedling Early Growth and Root Development of Eucalyptus urograndis
Authors: Zhang Shitao , Yang Jiaqi , Ouyang Linnan , Chen Shaoxiong
Published: October 2023

We examined the feasibility of applying soaking root fertilizer to Eucalyptus urograndis seedlings by dipping the roots, and the effectiveness of the method for improving the overall growth quality of the seedlings by affecting root growth. The seedlings of E. urograndis in the Southern National Forest Seedling Demonstration Base in China were dipped with seven kinds of soaking root fertilizer formulas, while another group of clear water was set as a control. We regularly investigated the relationship between root traits and other seedling traits, and the formulas conducive to the high-quality growth of seedlings in one month and two months were screened by principal component analysis (PCA). The feasibility of applying soaking root fertilizer by dipping the roots was analyzed by comparing the difference between the formula and the control. The F2 formula had the best promoting effect on the growth and biomass of seedlings and the highest ground diameter within one month. The biomass, cumulative height growth, and average crown width were also the highest in the two months, but the decreasing growth height in F2 was also obvious, along with reduced photosynthesis and root morphology. The F8 and F4 formulas as compound fertilizers showed the potential of a high growth rate and high quality. The seedlings on which they were all applied had an excellent photosynthetic capacity and a well-developed root system. A correlation analysis showed that root traits were significantly correlated with some aboveground indices of seedlings (growth, biomass and nutrients, etc.), among which the root K concentration was very significantly correlated with photosynthetic capacity, and the root P was very significantly correlated with seedling biomass. Dipping roots mainly promoted the uptake of P and K nutrients by roots, which had a positive effect on seedling photosynthesis and the root system, and thus improved the growth increment and growth quality of seedlings. A principal component analysis showed that dipping roots significantly promoted the growth traits of seedlings, and the best-performing formula for dipping roots was F8 at one month of growth. F4 was the best choice for growth at two months. F4 showed excellent performance in all trait indices and was the only treatment where an increase in the rhizome-to-stem ratio occurred, indicating that the nutrient distribution of F4 seedlings was uniform and efficient, which compensated for the deficiency of the follow-up fertility of the quick-acting complex fertilizer. The scientific formula of soaking root fertilizer can be economically applied by dipping roots to synchronously promote early growth and quality of seedlings, which can provide a theoretical basis for the early large-scale cultivation of E. urograndis and other plants.
Classification of Tree Species Based on Point Cloud Projection Images with Depth Information
Authors: Fan Zhongmou , Zhang Wenxuan , Zhang Ruiyang , Wei Jinhuang , Wang Zhanyong , Ruan Yunkai
Published: October 2023

To address the disorderliness issue of point cloud data when directly used for tree species classification, this study transformed point cloud data into projected images for classification. Building upon this foundation, the influence of incorporating multiple distinct projection perspectives, integrating depth information, and utilising various classification models on the classification of tree point cloud projected images was investigated. Nine tree species in Sanjiangkou Ecological Park, Fuzhou City, were selected as samples. In the single-direction projection classification, the X-direction projection exhibited the highest average accuracy of 80.56%. In the dual-direction projection classification, the XY-direction projection exhibited the highest accuracy of 84.76%, which increased to 87.14% after adding depth information. Four classification models (convolutional neural network, CNN; visual geometry group, VGG; ResNet; and densely connected convolutional networks, DenseNet) were used to classify the datasets, with average accuracies of 73.53%, 85.83%, 87%, and 86.79%, respectively. Utilising datasets with depth and multidirectional information can enhance the accuracy and robustness of image classification. Among the models, the CNN served as a baseline model, VGG accuracy was 12.3% higher than that of CNN, DenseNet had a smaller gap between the average accuracy and the optimal result, and ResNet performed the best in classification tasks.
Comparative Plastid Genome and Phylogenomic Analyses of Potamogeton Species
Authors: Choi KyoungSu , Hwang Yong , Hong Jeong-Ki , Kang Jong-Soo
Published: October 2023

Potamogetonaceae are aquatic plants divided into six genera. The largest genus in the family is Potamogeton, which is morphologically diverse with many hybrids and polyploids. Potamogetonaceae plastomes were conserved in genome size (155,863 bp–156,669 bp), gene contents (113 genes in total, comprising 79 protein-coding genes and 30 tRNA and 4 rRNA genes), and GC content (36.5%). However, we detected a duplication of the trnH gene in the IR region of the Potamogeton crispus and P. maakianus plastomes. A comparative analysis of Alismatales indicated that the plastomes of Potamogetonaceae, Cymodaceae, and Ruppiaceae have experienced a 6-kb inversion of the rbcL-trnV region and the ndh complex has been lost in the Najas flexilis plastome. Five divergent hotspots (rps16-trnQ, atpF intron, rpoB-trnC, trnC-psbM, and ndhF-rpl32) were identified among the Potamogeton plastomes, which will be useful for species identification. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the family Potamogetonaceae is a well-defined with 100% bootstrap support and divided into two different clades, Potamogeton and Stuckenia. Compared to the nucleotide substitution rates among Alismatales, we found neutral selection in all plastid genes of Potamogeton species. Our results reveal the complete plastome sequences of Potamogeton species, and will be helpful for taxonomic identification, the elucidation of phylogenetic relationships, and the plastome structural analysis of aquatic plants.
Emotional Distress in Portuguese Cancer Patients: The Use of the Emotion Thermometers (ET) Screening Tool
Authors: Silva Sónia , Paredes Tiago , Teixeira Ricardo João , Brandão Tânia , Dimitrovová Klára , Marques Diogo , Sousa Joana , Leal Monick , Dias Albina , Neves Carole , Marques Graciete , Amaral Natália
Published: October 2023

Cancer patients may experience significant distress. The “Emotion Thermometers” (ETs) are a short visual analogue scale used to screen patients for psychosocial risk. This study aimed to assess emotional distress in a large sample of cancer patients attending psychological services at an non-governmental organization (NGO), and to explore factors that may contribute to it. The ETs were answered by 899 cancer patients. They were, on average, 59.9 years old, the majority were female, had breast cancer, were under treatment or were disease-free survivors, and reported high levels of emotional distress, above the cut-off (≥5). A Generalized Linear Model was used to measure the association between the level of distress, age, gender, disease phase and 33 items of the problem list. Four items—sadness, depression, sleep and breathing—were found to be significantly related to a higher level of distress. Additionally, women and patients who were in the palliative phase also had significantly higher levels of distress. The results confirm the need for early emotional screening in cancer patients, as well as attending to the characteristics of each patient. Additionally, they highlight the utility of the ETs for the clinical practice, allowing to optimize the referral to specialized psychosocial services.
Characteristics of Children with Cerebral Palsy and Their Utilization of Services in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Saleh Maysoun Nimer , Alharbi Ahmad , Albalwi Abdulaziz , Alatawi Salem , Algamdi Maaidah , Alshahrani Abdulaziz , Al Bakri Basil , Almasri Nihad
Published: October 2023

The recent emergence of research on cerebral palsy (CP) in developing countries aims to improve knowledge on affected children and the utilization of the available services. This study seeks to describe children with CP in Saudi Arabia and service utilization as per Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels and geographic regions. A cross-sectional survey of 227 children with CP (Mean age 6.3, SD 3.9 years) was conducted. Parents reported on children’s demographics, impairments, and service utilization. Half of the children (n = 113, 49.8%) had ≥3 impairments with speech, visual and learning impairments being the most frequent. The total number of impairments differed significantly by GMFCS, F (4, 218) = 8.87, p < 0.001. Most of the children (n = 86, 83.4%) used 2–5 services. Moreover, 139 (62.3%) did not attend school, 147 (65.9%) did not receive occupational therapy, and only 32 (14.3%) received speech therapy. More children in GMFCS level I did not receive neurologist services. Profiles of children and services were described by GMFCS and by regions. This was the first study to describe children with CP and service utilization in Saudi Arabia. Although many impairments affected the children, there was low utilization of related services. Data on service utilization and on unmet needs support a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation and the proper service allocation.
Infestations of Aulacaspis yasumatsui Reduce Asexual Propagation and Transplantation Success of Cycas revoluta Plants
Authors: Marler Thomas
Published: October 2023

Cycad transplantation and asexual propagation by stem cuttings are highly successful horticultural procedures because the manoxylic stems contain copious nonstructural carbohydrates. The success of these horticultural procedures may be impaired by antecedent abiotic or biotic stress that decreases stem nonstructural carbohydrate content. The armored scale Aulacaspis yasumatsui Takagi has emerged as a global threat to cycad conservation, and the direct influence of A. yasumatsui herbivory on cycad transplantation or asexual propagation outcomes has not been adequately determined. Cycas revoluta Thunb. plants were infested with A. yasumatsui for 0, 20, or 40 weeks to determine the influence of infestation duration on transplantation or asexual propagation success. Following 20 weeks of infestation in one study, 100% of the undisturbed replications but only 60% of the transplanted replications survived. Following 40 weeks, 80% of the undisturbed replications but only 40% of the transplanted replications survived. Following 20 weeks of infestation in a second study, 100% of the intact replications but only 43% of the cuttings survived. Following 40 weeks, 86% of the intact replications and none of the cuttings survived. Leaf number and root, stem, and leaf dry weights followed similar trends, with declines in these metrics occurring with longer infestation durations. These outcomes indicated that adding the stress of asexual propagation or transplantation to C. revoluta plants that were damaged by A. yasumatsui herbivory decreased subsequent plant health and increased mortality.
Influence of Cytokinins, Dark Incubation and Air-Lift Bioreactor Culture on Axillary Shoot Proliferation of Al-Taif Rose (Rosa damascena trigintipetala (Diek) R. Keller)
Authors: Al-Ali Ali Mohsen , Dewir Yaser Hassan , Al-Obeed Rashid Sultan
Published: October 2023

Rose is a widely favored floriculture crop that is commercially propagated through the application of tissue culture techniques. Here, we report an effective method for axillary shoot proliferation in Al-Taif rose, an important cultivar for rose oil industry. Stem nodes were excised from an adult donor Al-Taif rose shrub and cultured for 4 weeks on Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) medium supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) or gibberellic acid (GA3) at 0 and 3 mg·L−1 to induce the sprouting of axillary shoots. Al-Taif rose shoots were cultured in vitro for 6 weeks on MS medium fortified with different concentrations of cytokinins, light/dark incubation and different culture types (gelled and liquid/bioreactor culture). The culture conditions that were applied had a noteworthy impact on the responses of Al-Taif rose shoot proliferation. The supplementation of the medium with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) resulted in an augmented rate of shoot proliferation in comparison to other cytokinins. Additionally, dark incubation limited foliage growth, leaf yellowing and abscission and favored shoot proliferation compared with light incubation. Liquid culture using bioreactors provided higher axillary shoot proliferation and growth as compared with gelled culture. A continuous immersion system with a net provided the highest axillary shoots (four shoots per explant) and shoot length (16.5 cm), whereas an immersion system without a net provided the highest fresh weight of axillary shoots (499 mg per explant). These findings will improve commercial propagation and contribute to the rose oil industry of Al-Taif rose.
Evaluation of Groundwater Quality Using the Water Quality Index (WQI) and Human Health Risk (HHR) Assessment in West Bank, Palestine
Authors: Zohud Ashraf , Alam Lubna , Goh Choo Ta
Published: October 2023

Access to clean and safe water is extremely important, not only in Palestine but also worldwide. In the West Bank, groundwater is particularly valuable because of its scarcity and inaccessibility, and, due to the nature of the area’s aquifers, is currently regarded as being at high risk of pollution. Moreover, the water quality in this area is also of wide concern, with its effects being directly linked to human health. Certain parts of the West Bank groundwater suffer from high concentrations of nitrate and potassium. In total, 38.8% of nitrate and 10% of potassium concentrations in well samples exceed the permissible limit set by the WHO and PSI, and, therefore, health problems arise as a limiting factor for life quality and welfare in this region. Moreover, 87.7% of samples are classified as having very hard water. To evaluate the well water in the study area, an assessment was conducted based on the WQI and HHR. Therefore, 49 samples were taken from a group of wells distributed across the study area during the year 2021. The physico-chemical parameters of each sample were analysed. The WQI values showed that 78% of the well samples were of good quality. Moreover, in the classification of the water based on a Piper diagram, 65% of the groundwater was determined to be calcium–magnesium–bicarbonate-type water. Likewise, health risk assessments were evaluated for fluoride and nitrate in drinking water for adults, children, and infants. The main values of the estimated total hazard index (THI) obtained from the analysed data on the health risk assessments revealed a diverse effect on the local population based on age category. The ranges of THI in all sampling locations varied considerably and extended from 0.093 to 3.01 for adults, 0.29 to 3.08 for children, and 0.302 to 3.21 for infants. These results widely indicate that infants are more exposed to health risks.