bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current-Mode Control of a Distributed Buck Converter with a Lossy Transmission Line
Authors: Röbenack Klaus , Gerbet Daniel
Published: September 2024

This article presents a buck converter in which the inductor has been replaced by a transmission line. This approach would be practically conceivable if the power supply and load had a greater spatial distance. Alternatively, the model derived in this way could also be regarded as an intermediate model in order to replace a power coil via discretization with a larger number of smaller coils and capacitors. In the time domain, this new converter can be described by a system of coupled partial and ordinary differential equations. In the frequency domain, a transcendental transfer function is obtained. For comparison with an equivalently parameterized conventional converter, Padé approximants are derived. A linear controller is designed for the converter topology under consideration.
The Predictive Value of the Triglycerides/HDL-Cholesterol Ratio for Diabetes Incidence
Authors: de Almeida-Pititto Bianca , Branda Julia Ines , de Oliveira Julia M. , Dualib Patrícia M. , de Aquino Fernandes Dias Luisa Bittencourt , Bensenor Isabela M. , Lotufo Paulo A. , Ferreira Sandra Roberta G.
Published: September 2024

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is an important disease with an impact on public health globally. Early assessment is necessary with accessible markers, such as the TG/HDL ratio, in predicting DM. Methods: A total of 11,653 subjects from the ELSA-Brazil were included in this analysis and were reevaluated after 3.9 ± 0.6 years of follow-up. Participants were classified according to the quartiles of the TG/HDL index, stratified by sex. ANOVA with Bonferroni correction and p-for-trend analysis were used to compare groups. Cox analysis was performed with adjustments for covariables. Kaplan–Meier curves are presented with the log rank pool and linear analysis. Results: From 11,653 participants (56% female; aged 50.5 ± 8.7 years), 866 (7.8%) were diagnosed with DM (7.2% in women and 7.8% in men). For both sexes, a worsening of the cardiometabolic profile was observed across the increase in TG/HDL quartiles (p < 0.001). Incidence rates of DM increased across TG/HDL quartiles for both men (from Q1 3.3% to Q4 12.8%) and women (from Q1 3.3% to Q4 12.4%). For the entire period, the incidence was highest in participants in the fourth quartile of TG/HDL (log rank analysis < 0.001 for both sexes). In the Cox regression analyses, for men, the HR (95%CI) for risk of DM was 2.4 (1.49–3.26) across the fourth quartile of the TG/HDL ratio, and in women it was 1.57 (1.11–2.22) for the third quartile and 2.08 (1.48–2.93) for the fourth quartile, compared to the first quartile after adjustments. Conclusions: Higher levels of the TG/HDL ratio were independently predictors of DM in both men and women.
Development of a Hydrometallurgical Process for the Extraction of Cobalt, Manganese, and Nickel from Acid Mine Drainage Treatment By-Product
Authors: Mira Alejandro Agudelo , Huang Qingqing
Published: September 2024

Critical minerals (CMs) are pivotal in modern industries, such as telecommunications, defense, medicine, and aerospace, contributing significantly to regional and global economic growth. However, the reliance on external sources for 26 out of 50 identified CMs raises concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities. To address this, the research focused on developing a hydrometallurgical process for extracting cobalt, manganese, and nickel from acid mine drainage (AMD) treatment by-products, emphasizing the need to diversify CM supply chains within the United States (US). A solution composed of an REE solvent extraction raffinate loaded with cobalt, manganese, nickel, and various impurity metals was utilized as a feedstock in this study. The developed hydrometallurgical process involved initial sodium hydroxide precipitation to remove impurities like aluminum and iron from an SX raffinate solution generated during the extraction of rare earth elements (REEs). Precipitation stages were performed in a pH region ranging from 2 to 12 to identify the optimum pH values, achieving a tradeoff between recovery and impurity removal. A subsequent precipitation process at pH 5–10 yielded a product rich in CMs, such as manganese, cobalt, and nickel. Further separation steps involved nitric acid washing, resulting in a Mn product with a purity of 47.9% by weight and a solution with extractable concentrations of cobalt and nickel. Stagewise precipitation with sodium sulfide subsequently produced three solid products: cobalt and nickel product at pH 1–5, manganese product at pH 5–10, and magnesium at pH 10–12. The study also explored other separation approaches, including solvent extraction, to enhance the separation of nickel from cobalt. Overall, the developed hydrometallurgical process generated the following products with varying degrees of purities: cobalt (9.92 wt.%), nickel (14 wt.%), manganese (47.9 wt.%), and magnesium (27.49 wt.%). This research aimed to contribute to the sustainable extraction of CMs from secondary sources, reducing the US’ reliance on imports and promoting a more resilient supply chain for these crucial elements.
Determining Fermentation Conditions to Enhance Antioxidant Properties and Nutritional Value of Basil Seeds Using Lactobacillus plantarum
Authors: Maleki Sima , Razavi Seyed Hadi , Yadav Hariom , Mousavi Zeinab E. , Jain Shalini
Published: September 2024

Fermented seeds and their bioactive compounds have captivated global interest due to their functional properties. Basil seeds are used worldwide in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, but their functional and nutritional properties after fermentation are not known. The aim of this study was to optimize the effect of fermentation on the improvement in the functional properties of basil seeds by Lactobacillus plantarum. Basil seed samples were categorized into seven water volumes (named A–G) and fermented for 24, 48, 72, and 96 h with L. Plantarum. The results show that the pH and total microbial content (TMC) significantly changed after 24 h of fermentation (p < 0.05). Fermentation significantly increased the antioxidant properties and niacin content of basil seeds compared with non-fermented control samples (p < 0.05). Fermented samples G-24, G-48, and G-72 (samples with a ratio of 1 g (basil):10 mL (water) fermented for 24,48 and 72 h), exhibited the highest DPPH and ABTS• scavenging activity. The total polyphenol content (TPC) was most prominent in the samples G-72, G-24, and G-48, respectively. Sample G-48 showed the highest antioxidant activity. Notably, sample G-24 showed a significant increase in niacin content (64 µg/mL). These results underscore that varying moisture levels and fermentation durations have a significant impact on the nutritional/functional value of basil seeds. Overall, fermenting basil seeds with L. plantarum increased their functional properties with greater antioxidant and TPC activities as well as increased nutritional value.
Effects of Aging in Wood Casks on Anthocyanins Compositions, Volatile Compounds, Colorimetric Properties, and Sensory Profile of Jerez Vinegars
Authors: Uysal Reyhan Selin
Published: September 2024

The Jerez (Sherry) vinegars, including Vinagre de Jerez, Reserva, and Gran Reserva, are crafted from Sherry wines and are protected under the Denomination of Origin in Spain. The aim of this study was to (i) characterize the physicochemical properties and composition; (ii) investigate the impact of the aging process on color properties, phenolics, volatile compounds, and sensorial profiles; and (iii) find a marker for tracing the authenticity of non-aged (Apto) and aged Jerez vinegars. The phenolic components were identified through LC-MS/MS, whereas the volatile compounds were examined using the GC-MS/MS technique. As the aging progressed, a decrease was observed in the levels of flavonol and phenolic acids, with anthocyanin components being undetectable in non-aged and aged samples. In the Gran Reserva variety, 2-methylbutyl acetate, acetic acid, and ethanol emerged as the predominant volatile substances. The presence of oaklactone and ethyl butanoate components served as marker substances to authenticate the Gran Reserva. Additionally, alterations in color properties were noted, marked by a decrease in yellow content and an increase in the red component depending on aging. Furthermore, novel sensory descriptors, such as vanilla, clove, woody, and nutty notes, and winy character emerged in the samples with prolonged aging.
A New Framework for Enhancing VANETs through Layer 2 DLT Architectures with Multiparty Threshold Key Management and PETs
Authors: Adarbah Haitham Y. , Kiraz Mehmet Sabir , Kardas Suleyman , Al-Bayatti Ali H. , Al-Bayatti Hilal M. Y.
Published: September 2024

This work proposes a new architectural approach to enhance the security, privacy, and scalability of VANETs through threshold key management and Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs), such as homomorphic encryption and secure multiparty computation, integrated with Decentralized Ledger Technologies (DLTs). These advanced mechanisms are employed to eliminate centralization and protect the privacy of transferred and processed information in VANETs, thereby addressing privacy concerns. We begin by discussing the weaknesses of existing VANET architectures concerning trust, privacy, and scalability and then introduce a new architectural framework that shifts from centralized to decentralized approaches. This transition applies a decentralized ledger mechanism to ensure correctness, reliability, accuracy, and security against various known attacks. The use of Layer 2 DLTs in our framework enhances key management, trust distribution, and data privacy, offering cost and speed advantages over Layer 1 DLTs, thereby enabling secure vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication. The proposed framework is superior to other frameworks as it improves decentralized trust management, adopts more efficient PETs, and leverages Layer 2 DLT for scalability. The integration of multiparty threshold key management and homomorphic encryption also enhances data confidentiality and integrity, thus securing against various existing cryptographic attacks. Finally, we discuss potential future developments to improve the security and reliability of VANETs in the next generation of networks, including 5G networks.
On the Fairness of Internet Congestion Control over WiFi with Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Shrestha Shyam Kumar , Pokhrel Shiva Raj , Kua Jonathan
Published: September 2024

For over forty years, TCP has been the main protocol for transporting data on the Internet. To improve congestion control algorithms (CCAs), delay bounding algorithms such as Vegas, FAST, BBR, PCC, and Copa have been developed. However, despite being designed to ensure fairness between data flows, these CCAs can still lead to unfairness and, in some cases, even cause data flow starvation in WiFi networks under certain conditions. We propose a new CCA switching solution that works with existing TCP and WiFi standards. This solution is offline and uses Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) trained on features such as noncongestive delay variations to predict and prevent extreme unfairness and starvation. Our DRL-driven approach allows for dynamic and efficient CCA switching. We have tested our design preliminarily in realistic datasets, ensuring that they support both fairness and efficiency over WiFi networks, which requires further investigation and extensive evaluation before online deployment.
Investigation into the Computational Analysis of High–Speed Microjet Hydrogen–Air Diffusion Flames
Authors: Benim Ali Cemal
Published: September 2024

High-speed microjet hydrogen–air diffusion flames are investigated computationally. The focus is on the prediction of the so-called bottleneck phenomenon. The latter has been previously observed as a specific feature of the present flame class and has not yet been investigated computationally. In the configuration under consideration, the nozzle diameter is 0.5 mm and six cases with mean nozzle injection velocities (U) between 306 m/s and 561 m/s are considered. The flow in the nozzle lance is analyzed separately to obtain detailed inlet boundary conditions for the flame calculations. It is confirmed by calculation that the phenomenon is mainly determined by the transition to turbulence in the initial parts of the free jet. The transitional turbulence proves to be the biggest challenge in predicting this class of flames, as the generally available turbulence and turbulent combustion models reach the limits of their validity in transitional flows. In a Reynolds-Averaged Numerical Simulation framework, the Shear Stress Transport model is found to perform better than alternative two-equation models and is used as the turbulence model. By neglecting the interactions between the turbulence and chemistry (no-model approach), it is possible to predict the morphology of the bottleneck flame and its dependence on U qualitatively. However, the position of the bottleneck is overpredicted for U < 561 m/s. The experimental flames in the considered U range are all attached to the nozzle. This is also predicted by the no-model approach. The Eddy Dissipation Concept (EDC) used as the turbulence combustion model predicts, however, lifted flames (with increasing lift-off height as U decreases). With the EDC, no bottleneck morphology is observed for U = 561 m/s. For lower U, the EDC results for the bottleneck position are generally closer to the measurements. It is demonstrated that accuracy in predicting the bottleneck position can be improved by ad hoc modifications of the turbulent viscosity.
Detecting Glucose in the Phloem to Quickly Define Latent Post-Fire Mortality in Pinus Trees in Northern Italy
Authors: Frassinelli Niccolò , Cocozza Claudia , Marchi Enrico , Foderi Cristiano , Touloupakis Eleftherios , Neri Francesco , Traversi Maria Laura , Giovannelli Alessio
Published: September 2024

Background. Wildfires may cause serious injuries to the anatomical structure of trees that can lead to tree death or long-lasting injury recovery, limiting their growth and vitality for several years. Post-fire management involves a wide range of measures aimed at recovering and restoring burnt areas. Usually, the first step is “salvage logging”, i.e., the removal of irremediably injured trees. The burn severity depends on several parameters and is variable within the burnt area. For this reason, in some areas, the death of apparently healthy individuals has often been observed even after several years. This study aims to assess delayed/latent mortality by analyzing glucose like a tracer in wood by using a blood glucometer and HPLC. Results. The glucose in the phloem, cambium, and last xylem rings was measured using a glucometer developed for measuring glucose in the blood. The adopted approach detected glucose concentrations that were recognizable for different functional levels of the trees. Conclusions. The glucometer was suitable to detect the glucose in wood and phloem in order to define the death or health of the disturbed and undisturbed trees post-fire. Further investigations are required to find new solutions for a rapid evaluation of the abiotic and biotic factors that influence tree functionality in the forest. This approach will be used to predict the probability of the death of the individuals injured, which would improve the efficiency and the economy of recovery operations.
Soot and Flame Structures in Turbulent Partially Premixed Jet Flames of Pre-Evaporated Diesel Surrogates with Admixture of OMEn
Authors: Walther Steffen , Li Tao , Geyer Dirk , Dreizler Andreas , Böhm Benjamin
Published: September 2024

In this study, the soot formation and oxidation processes in different turbulent, pre-evaporated and partially premixed diesel surrogate flames are experimentally investigated. For this purpose, a piloted jet flame surrounded by an air co-flow is used. Starting from a defined diesel surrogate mixture, different fuel blends with increasing blending ratios of poly(oxymethylene) dimethyl ether (OME) are studied. The Reynolds number, equivalence ratio, and vaporization temperature are kept constant to ensure the comparability of the different fuel mixtures. The effects of OME addition on flame structures, soot precursors, and soot are investigated, showing soot reduction when OME is added to the diesel surrogate. Using chemiluminescence images of C2 radicals (line of sight) and subsequent Abel-inversion, flame lengths and global flame structure are analyzed. The flame structure is visualized by means of planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) of hydroxyl radicals (OH). The spatial distribution of soot precursors, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), is simultaneously measured by PLIF using the same excitation wavelength. In particular, aromatic compounds with several benzene rings (e.g., naphthalene or pyrene), which are known to be actively involved in soot formation and growth, have been visualized. Spatially distributed soot particles are detected by using laser-induced incandescence (LII), which allows us to study the onset of soot clouds and its structures qualitatively. Evident soot formation is observed in the pure diesel surrogate flame, whereas a significant soot reduction with changing PAH and soot structures can be identified with increasing OME addition.
Antioxidant Ready-to-Use Grape Pomace Extracts Recovered with Natural Eutectic Mixtures for Formulation of Color-Rich Gummies
Authors: Trentin Julia , Mussagy Cassamo U. , Arantes Matheus S. T. , Pedro Alessandra C. , Mafra Marcos R. , Farias Fabiane O.
Published: September 2024

The growing consumer demand for natural and eco-friendly food products motivates the development and evaluation of new and natural inputs for the food industry. So, this work explores the potential of grape pomace (GP) from winemaking, a food production residue, to obtain an anthocyanin-rich, ready-to-use extract with antioxidant activity that can confer improved color-rich gummy candies. The anthocyanins’ chemical nature and the predictive COSMO-SAC model was considered for screening the best natural eutectic mixture for anthocyanin extraction. The eutectic mixtures composed of choline chloride as a hydrogen bond acceptor and acetic and citric acids as hydrogen bond donors were selected as solvents. The extraction was performed using a high-shear disperser (Ultra-Turrax®) at 45 °C and was stirred at 5000 rpm for 10 min. The extracts presented high total anthocyanin content (TAC), up to 60 µg equivalent of cyaniding-3-glucoside/g of dry GP, and high antioxidant activity as determined by DPPH and FRAP assays. The phenolic profile was also determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and the results corroborated with the antioxidant activity of the extracts. The results also demonstrate that eutectic mixtures enhance the extraction efficiency of anthocyanins and improve their stability, making them suitable for incorporation into functional food products such as gummies, acting as natural colorants.
Development and Application of the Quality Index Method for Ice-Stored King Weakfish (Macrodon ancylodon)
Authors: Alves Rafaela Cristina Barata , Pino-Hernández Enrique , Barbosa Jhonatas Rodrigues , Silva Elen Vanessa Costa da , Lima Consuelo Lúcia Sousa de , Miranda Raul Coimbra , Lourenço Lúcia de Fátima Henriques
Published: September 2024

The freshness of raw fish has become one of the industry’s and consumers’ main concerns regarding quality, safety, and shelf-life estimation. To determine the freshness of the king weakfish (Macrodom ancylodom), the quality index method (QIM) was employed for sensory analyses, along with the assessment of proximate composition, pH, total volatile bases (TVB-N), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), biogenic amines, fatty acids, texture, and microbiological parameters. The results show that the QIM obtained over the storage period exhibited a linear increase, ranging from 2 to 21 demerit points, with a high correlation (R2 = 0.9868) among the data. The microbiological results indicated an increase in the counts of psychrotrophic and mesophilic bacteria throughout the storage period. TVB-N values ranged from 11 to 28 mg/100 g, and TBARS values ranged from 0.235 to 0.298 mg MDA/kg when stored in ice. The presence of putrescine, cadaverine, spermidine, and toxic volatile compounds was a potential indicator of fish freshness. Based on the correlation between the methods considered indicators of freshness and quality, it can be concluded that the king weakfish maintains its commercial stability for up to 11 days when stored in ice.
Experimental Investigation of Bacterial Inactivation of Beef Using Indirect Cold Plasma in Cold Chain and at Room Temperature
Authors: Li Peiru , Zhang Hainan , Tian Changqing , Zou Huiming
Published: September 2024

Pathogen contamination is a severe problem in maintaining food safety in the cold chain. Cold plasma (CP) is a novel non-thermal disinfection method that can be applied for the bacterial inactivation of food in appropriate contexts. Currently, research on CP used on food at cold chain temperatures is rare. This work investigated the bacterial inactivation effect of CP on beef at typical cold storage temperatures of 4 and −18 °C and room temperature (25 °C). The reactive species in CP were indirectly tested by evaluating O3, NO3− and NO2− in cold plasma-activated water (PAW), which indicated the highest concentrations of reactive species in CP at 25 °C and the lowest at −18 °C. The bactericidal efficacy of CP treatment against beef inoculated with Escherichia coli at −18 °C, 4 °C, and 25 °C was 30.5%, 60.1%, and 59.5%, respectively. The 4 °C environment was the most appropriate treatment for CP against beef, with the highest bactericidal efficacy and a minor influence on beef quality. The indirect CP treatment had no significant effect on the texture, color, pH, or cooking loss of beef at −18 °C. CP shows significant potential for the efficient decontamination of food at cold chain temperatures.
Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) Anthocyanins and Their Functions, Stability, Bioavailability, and Applications
Authors: Wang Li , Lan Wei , Chen Dan
Published: September 2024

Blueberry fruits are rich in anthocyanins. There are 25 known anthocyanidins found in blueberries (Vaccinium spp.) until now. Anthocyanins found in blueberries have attracted considerable interest for their outstanding abilities as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, and neuroprotection compounds, as well as their potential for preventing cardiovascular diseases, protecting vision, and inhibiting cancer development. However, their application is constrained by issues related to instability and relatively low bioavailability. Thus, this review provides a detailed overview of categories, functions, stability, and bioavailability of blueberry anthocyanins and their practical applications. The available studies indicate that there is more potential for the industrial production of blueberry anthocyanins.
Effects of Pre-Dehydration Treatments on Physicochemical Properties, Non-Volatile Flavor Characteristics, and Microbial Communities during Paocai Fermentation
Authors: Xian Shuang , Zhao Feng , Huang Xinyan , Liu Xingyan , Zhang Zhiqing , Zhou Man , Shen Guanghui , Li Meiliang , Chen Anjun
Published: September 2024

The paocai industry faces challenges related to the production of large volumes of high-salinity and acidic brine by-products. Maintaining paocai quality while reducing brine production is crucial. This study utilized high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze microbial changes throughout the fermentation process, along with the non-volatile flavor compounds and physicochemical properties, to assess the impact of hot-air and salt-pressing pre-dehydration treatments on paocai quality. The findings indicate that pre-dehydration of raw material slowed the fermentation process but enhanced the concentration of non-volatile flavor substances, including free amino acids and organic acids. Hot-air pre-dehydration effectively reduced initial salinity to levels comparable to those in high-salinity fermentation of fresh vegetables. Furthermore, pre-dehydration altered microbial community structures and simplified inter-microbial relationships during fermentation. However, the key microorganisms such as Lactobacillus, Weissella, Enterobacter, Wallemia, Aspergillus, and Kazachstania remained consistent across all groups. Additionally, this study found that biomarkers influenced non-volatile flavor formation differently depending on the treatment, but these substances had minimal impact on the biomarkers and showed no clear correlation with high-abundance microorganisms. Overall, fermenting pre-dehydrated raw materials presents an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional paocai production.
Physicochemical, Antioxidant, Starch Digestibility, and Sensory Properties of Wheat Bread Fortified with Taiwanese Cocoa Bean Shells
Authors: Wang Chun-Wei , Shen Hui-Shan , Yang Chih-Wei , Syu Pei-Ci , Lin Sheng-Dun
Published: September 2024

The effects of replacing 5–25% of wheat flour (WF) with Taiwanese cocoa bean shells (CBSs) on the physicochemical, antioxidant, starch digestion, and sensory properties of the bread were studied. The lead (0.18) and cadmium (0.77) contents (mg/kg) of the CBSs were below the Codex Alimentarius specifications for cocoa powder. Ochratoxin A and aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, and G2) were not detected in the CBSs. The CBSs were rich in dietary fiber (42.9%) and bioactive components and showed good antioxidant capacity. The ash, fat, protein, dietary fiber, crumb a* and c*, hardness, chewiness, total phenols, and antioxidant activities of the bread increased with an increasing CBSs level. The starch hydrolysis rate (45.1–36.49%) of the CBS breads at 180 min was lower than that of the control (49.6%). The predicted glycemic index of the bread (CBS20 and CBS25) with 20–25% of the WF replaced with CBSs was classified as a medium-GI food using white bread as a reference. In the nine-point hedonic test, the overall preference scores were highest for control (6.8) and CBS breads, where CBSs replaced 5–10% of WF, with scores of 7.2 and 6.7. CBS20 supplemented with an additional 20–30% water improved its volume, specific volume, and staling rate, but the overall liking score (6.5–7.2) was not significantly different from the control (p > 0.05). Overall, partially replacing wheat flour with CBSs in the production of baked bread can result in a new medium-GI value food containing more dietary fiber, bioactive compounds, and enhanced antioxidant capacity.
Fractional-Order Modeling and Identification for an SCR Denitrification Process
Authors: Ai Wei , Lin Xinlei , Luo Ying , Wang Xiaowei
Published: September 2024

This paper presents an application of a fractional-order system on modeling an industrial process system with large inertia and time delay. The traditional integer-order model of the process system is extended to a fractional-order one in this work. To identify the parameters of the proposed fractional-order model, an output-error identification algorithm is presented. Based on the experimental step response data of the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) denitrification process in a power plant, this proposed fractional-order model shows a better fitting result compared with the typical integer-order models. An integer-order proportional–integral (PI) controller is designed for the process plant using a simple scheme according to the identified fractional-order and integer-order models, respectively. Validation tests are performed based on the obtained fractional-order and integer-order models, demonstrating the advantages of the proposed fractional-order model with the corresponding system identification approach for industrial processes with large inertia and time delay.
Neural Fractional Differential Equations: Optimising the Order of the Fractional Derivative
Authors: Coelho Cecília , Costa M. Fernanda P. , Ferrás Luís L.
Published: September 2024

Neural Fractional Differential Equations (Neural FDEs) represent a neural network architecture specifically designed to fit the solution of a fractional differential equation to given data. This architecture combines an analytical component, represented by a fractional derivative, with a neural network component, forming an initial value problem. During the learning process, both the order of the derivative and the parameters of the neural network must be optimised. In this work, we investigate the non-uniqueness of the optimal order of the derivative and its interaction with the neural network component. Based on our findings, we perform a numerical analysis to examine how different initialisations and values of the order of the derivative (in the optimisation process) impact its final optimal value. Results show that the neural network on the right-hand side of the Neural FDE struggles to adjust its parameters to fit the FDE to the data dynamics for any given order of the fractional derivative. Consequently, Neural FDEs do not require a unique α value; instead, they can use a wide range of α values to fit data. This flexibility is beneficial when fitting to given data is required and the underlying physics is not known.
Deep Electrical Resistivity Tomography for Detecting Gravitational Morpho-Structures in the Becca France Area (Aosta Valley, NW Italy)
Authors: Forno Maria Gabriella , Gattiglio Marco , Gianotti Franco , Comina Cesare , Vergnano Andrea , Dolce Stefano
Published: September 2024

Deep-seated gravitational slope deformations (DSGSDs) consist of gravity-induced, large-scale, gradual rock mass movements. In the Aosta Valley region (Valle d’Aosta NW Italy), DSGDs affect wide valley slopes and produce several interconnected morpho-structures that involve bedrock and Quaternary cover. Some DSGSD effects are not visible at the surface because of subglacial abrasion or burial by sediments and, therefore, are difficult to map with standard geomorphological surveys. This is the case for the Pointe Leysser DSGSD in the Aosta Valley, which is heavily influenced by the historical movements of the Verrogne-Clusellaz Glacier and its tributaries. We conducted a new geological investigation, integrated with deep electrical resistivity tomography geophysical surveys (ERTs). The ERT results were initially compared with geological/geomorphological evidence at the surface to define the correlation between the values and spatial distributions of electrical resistivity and the sediments, rocks, or morpho-structures. The resistivity values at various depths were subsequently analysed, interpreted, and discussed in conjunction with geological hypotheses. The geological and geophysical survey revealed three wide buried glacial valleys filled with glacial sediments and mapped the locations of gravitational morpho-structures at depth. These new data allowed us to draw a relationship between glacialism and gravitational evolution, distinguishing between pre-singlacial movements and postglacial movements.
Pleistocene Glacial Transport of Nephrite Jade from British Columbia, Canada, to Coastal Washington State, USA
Authors: Mustoe George E.
Published: September 2024

Since prehistoric times, indigenous residents of southwest British Columbia, Canada, collected water-worn nephrite specimens from the gravel bars along the Fraser River, using the stone for the manufacture of tools that were widely traded with other tribes. Allochthonous nephrite occurs in another geologic setting. Late Pleistocene continental glaciers transported nephrite and many other rock types from western Canada to northwest Washington State, producing extensive sediment deposits that border the Salish Sea coast in Whatcom and Island Counties, Washington. This material was little utilized by indigenous residents, but “black jade” specimens are prized by modern collectors. The depositional history and mineralogy of this material has received little attention. X-ray diffraction and SEM/EDS analyses indicate that the Salish Sea “black jade” is a form of impure nephrite that probably originated from metamorphism of a mafic igneous parent material (metabasite). The texture consists of prismatic amphibole crystals (ferro-actinolite) set in a matrix rich in plagioclase feldspar. Pyrite inclusions are locally present. A second material, sometimes erroneously labelled “muttonfat jade” by amateur collectors, consists of an intermixture of quartz and sillimanite.
Challenges in Conducting Exercise Recovery Studies in Older Adults and Considerations for Future Research: Findings from a Nutritional Intervention Study
Authors: Hayes Eleanor Jayne , Hurst Christopher , Granic Antoneta , Sayer Avan A. , Stevenson Emma
Published: September 2024

Maximising the potential benefit of resistance exercise (RE) programs by ensuring optimal recovery is an important aim of exercise prescription. Despite this, research surrounding recovery from RE in older adults is limited and inconsistent. The following randomised controlled trial was designed to investigate the efficacy of milk consumption for improving recovery from RE in older adults. However, the study encountered various challenges that may be applicable to similar studies. These include recruitment issues, a lack of measurable perturbations in muscle function following RE, and potential learning effects amongst participants. Various considerations for exercise research have arisen from the data which could inform the design of future studies in this area. These include (i) recruitment—consider ways in which the study design could be altered to aid recruitment or allow a longer recruitment period; (ii) learning effects and familiarisation—consider potential learning effects of outcome measures and adjust familiarisation accordingly; (iii) identify, validate and optimise protocols for outcome measures that are applicable for the specific population; (iv) adjust the exercise protocol according to the specific aims of the study (e.g., are you replicating a usual exercise bout or is the intent to cause large amounts of muscle damage?).
Integrated Psycho-Socio-Educational Programmes for Women Victims of Gender-Based Violence
Authors: Lopes-Dos-Santos María Cristina , Anaut-Bravo Sagrario
Published: September 2024

Although women victims of gender-based violence suffer health and self-care issues, there is still a lack of coordinated integrated support programmes aimed at mitigating the socio-health impact of gender-based violence on women that are suitably adapted to new social contexts. Given the importance of analysing the effectiveness of integrated psycho-socio-educational interventions and self-care programmes, this study reviews the interventions and programmes implemented in Spain, focusing specifically on their implementation and impact in the autonomous region of Navarra. The data reviewed were extracted from official publications and websites pertaining to the 17 Spanish autonomous regions and the corresponding Spanish government ministries. Additionally, 18 reports on psycho-socio-educational interventions (n = 63) for the whole of Spain centring on integrated support for self-care were analysed. In the case of the autonomous region of Navarra, four psycho-socio-educational intervention programmes (n = 4) involving self-care were analysed. The analysis found that there are a number of diverse integrated psycho-socio-educational programmes focusing on self-care that provide support and interventions. The results indicate that the women who benefit from the services, especially those relating to self-care (self-esteem, healthcare, personal image, and health), report improvements in their general wellbeing.
COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake among People with Spinal Cord Injury and Dysfunction in Ontario, Canada: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mei Angela , Senthinathan Arrani , Hussain Swaleh , Tadrous Mina , Noonan Vanessa K. , Jaglal Susan B. , Moineddin Rahim , Craven B. Catharine , McKay Sandra , Cadel Lauren , Shepherd John , Tu Karen , Guilcher Sara J. T.
Published: September 2024

Persons with disabilities experience numerous barriers to healthcare access including vaccine accessibility. The purpose of this study was to determine COVID-19 vaccine uptake in the spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D) population of Ontario and identify potential factors influencing C OVID-19 vaccine uptake. This was a retrospective closed-cohort study using administrative health data on individuals with SCI/D of traumatic and non-traumatic causes to examine the monthly number of COVID-19 vaccine doses received between December 2020 and December 2023. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the potential association between socio-demographic, clinical, and neighbourhood characteristics with initial COVID-19 vaccine receipt and booster dose uptake. By the end of the observation period in December 2023, 82.9% received the full two-dose coverage and 65.6% received at least one additional booster dose in a cohort of 3574 individuals with SCI/D. SCI/D individuals showed a comparable COVID-19 vaccine uptake percentage to the general population. Sociodemographic, clinical, and neighbourhood characteristics were associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake in the SCI/D population, including age, type of injury, number of comorbidities, mental health history, and neighbourhood characteristics such as income. Further investigation is necessary to determine the causation effects of these relationships with vaccine uptake to address health equity concerns.
Preventing Trauma and Grief in Emergency and Critical Care Units: A Mixed Methods Study on a Psycho-Educational Defusing Intervention
Authors: Tommasi Francesco , Tommasi Paolo , Panato Marco , Cordioli Davide , Sartori Riccardo
Published: September 2024

Emergency and critical care services inevitably expose their staff to potential work stressors and traumatic events, which can cause emotional, behavioral, and physical reactions. The literature presents a wide range of evidence-based knowledge on the effectiveness of interventions to promote mental health after traumatic events. However, little is known about the effectiveness of prevention programs. In this study, we sought to improve the empirical understanding of the potential of a combination of psycho-educational-defusing training for trauma prevention. We employed a mixed methods approach using statistical modeling and content/focus group analysis to describe the sample of investigation and the effectiveness of the prevention training. A retrospective quantitative chart measured and evaluated the psychological state of physicians, nurses, and registered nurses (N = 222). A retrospective qualitative chart examined staff accounts of traumas and their coping strategies via autobiographies (n = 26). Prospective focus groups examined participants of the psycho-educational defusing intervention administered (n = 61). Findings revealed different forms of experiencing grief and trauma. Prospective analysis of the training effectiveness revealed favorable perceptions by participants. Results support the formal implementation of continuous prevention, building relational support, and coping strategies as keys to recovery and preventing traumas.
Qualitative Evaluation of a Quality Improvement Collaborative Implementation to Improve Acute Ischemic Stroke Treatment in Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Aljendi Shadi , Mrklas Kelly J. , Kamal Noreen
Published: September 2024

The Atlantic Canada Together Enhancing Acute Stroke Treatment (ACTEAST) project is a modified quality improvement collaborative (mQIC) designed to improve ischemic stroke treatment rates and efficiency in Atlantic Canada. This study evaluated the implementation of the mQIC in Nova Scotia using qualitative methods. The mQIC spanned 6 months, including two learning sessions, webinars, and a per-site virtual visit. The learning sessions featured presentations about the project and the improvement efforts at some sites. Each session included an action planning period where the participants planned for the implementation efforts over the following 2 to 4 months, called “action periods”. Eleven hospitals and Emergency Health Services (EHS) of Nova Scotia participated. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was utilized to develop a semi-structured interview guide to uncover barriers and facilitators to mQIC’s implementation. Interviews were conducted with 14 healthcare professionals from 10 entities, generating 458 references coded into 28 CFIR constructs. The interviews started on 17 June 2021, 2 months after the intervention period, and ended on 7 October 2021. Notably, 84% of these references were positively framed as facilitators., highlighting the various aspects of the mQIC and its context that supported successful implementation. These facilitators encompassed factors such as networks and communications, strong leadership engagement, and a collaborative culture. Significant barriers included resource availability, relative priorities, communication challenges, and engaging key stakeholders. Some barriers were prominent during specific phases. The study provides insights into quality improvement initiatives in stroke care, reflecting the generally positive opinions of the interviewees regarding the mQIC. While the quantitative analysis is still ongoing, this study highlights the importance of addressing context-specific barriers and leveraging the identified facilitators for successful implementation.
Exploring the Impact of a Structured Educational Approach on Peristomal Skin Complications: An Interim Analysis
Authors: Denti Francesco Carlo , Guerra Eliana , Caroppo Francesca , Abruzzese Pietro , Alessi Fabrizio , Barone Filippo , Bernardino Pasqualina , Bergamini Massimiliano , Bernardo Cristina , Bosio Gloria , Carp Paula , Cecconello Manuela , Cerchier Annalinda , Croci Francesca , Detti Rita , Di Pasquale Cristina , D’Ippolito Maria Rosaria , Ditta Simona , Ducci Erica , Belloni Fortina Anna , Frascarelli Stefano , Galante Marianna , Guarino Rita , Leggio Nicola , Livio Elisabetta , Marchetti Alessandra , Marelli Francesca , Mastropaolo Rita , Melis Viviana , Palmiero Nicola , Panarelli Arianna , Pascali Anna Lea , Pizzarelli Francesco , Precisi Laura , Rastello Cinzia , Regaglia Silvia , Rinaldi Rossana Elvira , Rumbolo Nadia , Sansone Claudio , Santelli Angela , Sarritzu Giovanni , Sfondrini Stefano , Stanzani Sara , Stella Mattia , Walterova Margherita , Caruso Rosario
Published: September 2024

This study, employing an interim analysis, investigates the effects of the Dermamecum protocol, a structured educational and tailored approach that stratifies ostomy patients into risk paths (green, yellow, red) based on pre-operative and post-operative characteristics. The green path indicates a low risk of peristomal skin complications (PSCs), focusing on sustaining healthy behaviours and basic stoma care. The yellow path represents a moderate risk, emphasizing the need for patients to self-monitor and recognize early signs of complications. The red path corresponds to high risk, requiring stringent monitoring and immediate access to healthcare support. The study aims to reduce PSCs and improve patient outcomes. Methods include the stratification of 226 patients, with significant differences in gender distribution, BMI categories, and stoma types across the paths. Results show an occurrence rate of PSCs of 5.9% in all risk paths (5.7% green path, 4.7% yellow path, and 7.9% red path, p = 0.685), significantly lower than the median rate of 35% reported in the literature. Multiple correspondence analysis validated the stratification, with distinct clusters for each path. Poisson regression models in the exploratory framework of an interim analysis identified male gender as the only significant predictor of PSCs, indicating the need for gender-specific interventions. The findings suggest that the Dermamecum protocol effectively reduces early PSCs, providing a foundation for further research.
Knowledge and Perception of Pharmacy Students toward Telepharmacy Education in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsultan Mohammed M. , Baraka Mohamed A. , Alahmari Abdullah K. , Elrggal Mahmoud E. , Mahmoud Mansour A. , Alrasheed Marwan A. , Alkahlah Shahad O. , Alqarni Arjwan M. , Alghamdi Manar M. , Al Khzem Abdulaziz H. , Alshehail Bashayer M. , Alotaibi Mansour M.
Published: September 2024

Telepharmacy education should be incorporated into the curricula due to its beneficial effects on students, providing pharmacy services during their practice. Therefore, this study aims to explore the knowledge and perceptions of pharmacy students regarding the integration of telepharmacy services into their education curriculum in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey from 1 June to 30 September 2023, among pharmacy students from five universities in Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was divided into three sections, and descriptive statistics and a generalized linear model were used for analysis. A total of 523 pharmacy students participated. Approximately half of the students were aware of telepharmacy, and only one-quarter had studied it as part of their curriculum. Students believed that telepharmacy education should cover communication, reimbursement, and training for virtual patient interactions. There was a significant positive correlation (p < 0.0001) between the knowledge and perception scores. In addition, students who had heard about telepharmacy before and those with a “somewhat” confidence level showed a significantly positive correlation with knowledge scores (p = 0.01). In conclusion, perception scores, students who had heard of telepharmacy, and those with a “somewhat” confidence level were all positively correlated with pharmacy students’ understanding of telepharmacy. This study underscores the importance of integrating telepharmacy education and practical training into pharmacy curricula to prepare future pharmacists for the evolving healthcare landscape.