bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Balance Impairment and Determinants in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Comparative Study with Healthy Subjects
Authors: Ucgun Hikmet , Kaya Meltem , Ogun Hamza , Denizoglu Kulli Hilal
Published: July 2024

Background: Many pulmonary and extrapulmonary factors may impair balance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but the determinants of this impairment are still debated. The primary aim was to compare both balance-related and independent variables that may affect balance with healthy subjects. The secondary aim was to investigate the potential determinants of balance in patients with COPD. Methods: This comparative study recruited 23 patients with COPD and 23 age- and comorbidity-matched healthy subjects. Participants were assessed regarding demographic and clinical data, “Postural Stability Test” (PST), “Limits of Stability Test” (LOST), “Clinical Test of Sensory Integration of Balance” (CTSIB), pulmonary function, respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, functional capacity, and cognitive function. Results: There were significant differences in all outcome measures assessing balance, pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength, peripheral muscle strength, and functional capacity, but not cognitive function, in the COPD group compared to the healthy group (p < 0.05). The PST had a significant and strong correlation with maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) (r = −0.630, p = 0.001) and a significant and moderate correlation with m. quadriceps strength and 6 min walk test (6MWT) distance (r = −0.472, p = 0.023; r = −0.496, p = 0.016; respectively). MIP, m. quadriceps strength, and 6MWT distance were independent predictors to explain the PST with an R2 = 0.336 (p = 0.004). Conclusions: The present study revealed that balance is impaired in adults with COPD, even if compared with age- and comorbidity-matched healthy subjects. Assessing and improving balance and its determinants, inspiratory and peripheral muscle strength, and functional capacity may be important for fall prevention and disease management in patients with COPD.
Assessment of Uterine Contraction and Atonic Bleeding during the Third Stage of Labor Using Shear Wave Elastography
Authors: Okuyama Ayumi , Hasegawa Junichi , Seo Kohei , Izdebski Tatsuya , Goto Minako , Sekizawa Akihiko , Ichizuka Kiyotake
Published: July 2024

Objective: This study aimed to clarify the relationship between fluctuations in uterine stiffness during the third stage of labor and blood loss upon placenta delivery using shear wave elastography. Methods: This prospective cohort study enrolled consecutive singleton pregnant women above 37 weeks of gestation who delivered infants transvaginally at a single perinatal center. Shear wave velocities (SWV) were continuously measured during the third stage of transvaginal labor using transabdominal ultrasound and these values were compared between groups with large (≥500 g) and small amounts of bleeding during this stage. Results: In total, 8 cases of large bleeding and 47 cases of small bleeding were compared. The large amount of bleeding group had a significantly lower median of minimum SWV values (0.97 [0.52–1.01] m/s than the small amount of bleeding group (1.25 [1.04–1.48] m/s p = 0.02). However, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of median, mean, and maximum SWV values. The time from delivery of the infant to placental delivery was significantly longer in the large amount of bleeding group (median time: 370.5 s vs. 274 s, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Ultrasound quantification of uterine stiffness using shear wave elastography demonstrated that uterine contractions may influence the biological hemostasis of the uterus during the third stage of labor. Baseline uterine stiffness was weak and a longer duration of placental separation might be associated with cases of large amounts of bleeding during this stage.
Evaluating Large Language Model (LLM) Performance on Established Breast Classification Systems
Authors: Haider Syed Ali , Pressman Sophia M. , Borna Sahar , Gomez-Cabello Cesar A. , Sehgal Ajai , Leibovich Bradley C. , Forte Antonio Jorge
Published: July 2024

Medical researchers are increasingly utilizing advanced LLMs like ChatGPT-4 and Gemini to enhance diagnostic processes in the medical field. This research focuses on their ability to comprehend and apply complex medical classification systems for breast conditions, which can significantly aid plastic surgeons in making informed decisions for diagnosis and treatment, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Fifty clinical scenarios were created to evaluate the classification accuracy of each LLM across five established breast-related classification systems. Scores from 0 to 2 were assigned to LLM responses to denote incorrect, partially correct, or completely correct classifications. Descriptive statistics were employed to compare the performances of ChatGPT-4 and Gemini. Gemini exhibited superior overall performance, achieving 98% accuracy compared to ChatGPT-4’s 71%. While both models performed well in the Baker classification for capsular contracture and UTSW classification for gynecomastia, Gemini consistently outperformed ChatGPT-4 in other systems, such as the Fischer Grade Classification for gender-affirming mastectomy, Kajava Classification for ectopic breast tissue, and Regnault Classification for breast ptosis. With further development, integrating LLMs into plastic surgery practice will likely enhance diagnostic support and decision making.
Evaluation of Cognitive Functions in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Baran Gozde , Yildiz Suleyman Sezai , Oner Ozge Gonul , Gurdal Ahmet , Keskin Kudret , Sigirci Serhat , Orta Kilickesmez Kadriye , Babacan Yildiz Gulsen
Published: July 2024

Purpose: It is not clear whether cognitive functions are impaired in young patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This study aims to detect whether or not there is cognitive impairment and cerebral changes in young patients with ACS undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Patients and Methods: All 50 patients with ACS who were treated with primary PCI were eligible for this prospective study. All participants had normal cognitive function before ACS. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed to quantify changes in brain white and gray matter. Cognitive functions (CFs) were evaluated by seven cognitive tests. Patients were categorized by MRI findings and test scores were compared from the first day to after the first month. Results: We determined 25 patients with impaired CFs on the first day. After the first month, we identified 18 patients with transient impaired CFs. No structural difference was observed between impaired CF and normal CF. While 25 patients had a score of 1 according to Fazekas, 10 patients had a score of 1 according to MTLA. While the mean Stroop test completion time and Stroop test error rate scores were significantly higher on the first day than after the first month in the Fazekas+ group (p = 0.003, p < 0.001, respectively), other cognitive test scores—except clock drawing test, digital span forwards, and backwards—were significantly lower on the first day compared to after the first month in the Fazekas+ group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Patients with ACS have transient impairment in cognitive functions. Acute coronary syndrome is not associated with structural changes in the brain.
Updates on Treatment Modalities for Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Repair
Authors: Davidović Sofija , Babović Siniša , Miljković Aleksandar , Pavin Svetlana , Bolesnikov-Tošić Ana , Barišić Sava
Published: July 2024

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, a severe eye condition, presents anatomic separation of the neurosensory retina from its outermost layer—the retinal pigment epithelium. Early recognition of this relatively common finding and proper referral of patients to the retinal surgery department is essential in order to minimize its consequent possible severe reduction in vision. Several major surgical methods for the repair of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment have been in use over the last several decades, and they all aim to find and close the break in the retina that has caused the detachment. Surgery can be performed as pneumatic retinopexy, pars plana vitrectomy, and/or episcleral surgery (buckling). General surgical trends for reattaching the retina include moving from extraocular to intraocular surgery and from bigger gauge to smaller gauge via minimal invasive vitrectomy surgery (MIVS), with implementing shorter-lasting intraocular tamponades. Surgical options for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treatment nowadays emphasize gaining retinal reattachment, preferably with one surgery and with minimum damage to the eye. The procedure should not bring secondary eye conditions and complications with severe impairment of visual acuity, and it should be performed on as much as a smaller budget, with possibly peribulbar anesthesia, enabling the patient the quickest possible recovery. It should be adjusted to the patient’s condition, not to the surgeon’s skills or preferences.
Highly Conductive Single-Ion Polymeric Electrolyte for Long-Cycle-Life Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Yang Yuying , Zhang Yabin , Song Yuxin , Ma Tingbin , Zhang Luqing , Zhang Shuxiang
Published: July 2024

Considerable research has been conducted on single-ion conductive polymeric electrolytes with high lithium ion transference numbers. However, low ionic conductivity is a long-standing challenge for lithium metal batteries, hindering the development of extending their cycle life. In this study, we synthesized a novel fluorine-containing single-ion polymeric electrolyte, LiP(VDF-co-MAF)BB (Polyvinylidene fluoride trifluoromethyl acrylate lithium borate polymer; subsequently referred to as PPMBB), exhibiting a room temperature conductivity of 1.03 × 10−3 S/cm. This electrolyte demonstrates a high lithium ion transference number of 0.7901 and an extended electrochemical stability window of 5.5 V. Under a 2 C discharge rate, it manifests a remarkable discharge specific capacity of 146.8 mAh/g. Moreover, even after 364 cycles, the capacity retention remains at 76%. The single-ion polymeric gel electrolyte designed in this work provides a promising strategy for the prolonged cycling performance of lithium metal batteries.
A New Straightforward Darcy-Scale Compositional Solver in OpenFOAM for CO2/Water Mutual Solubility in CO2 Storage Processes in Aquifers
Authors: Papi Ali , Jahanbakhsh Amir , Maroto-Valer Mercedes M.
Published: July 2024

Advancing the modeling of evaporation and salt precipitation is essential in CO2 storage processes in aquifers. OpenFOAM provides a platform for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling with its open-source C++ object-oriented architecture that can especially be used in the development of fluid flow models in porous media. Some OpenFOAM packages have been developed in this area, and their codes are available for use. Despite this, the existing OpenFOAM literature does not include a model that incorporates multicomponent interactions in multi-phase flow systems, referred to as compositional modeling, at the Darcy scale. This existing gap is addressed in this paper, where a new simple model in OpenFOAM is introduced that aims to model the interaction of CO2 and H2O components in CO2 storage processes in aquifers at the Darcy scale. The model, named compositionalIGFoam, incorporates a compositional solver by extending the impesFoam solver of the porousMultiphaseFoam package, while assuming some simplifications, to account for CO2/water mutual dissolution, relevant to carbon capture and storage (CCS) processes in aquifers. The functionality of the compositionalIGFoam solver was assessed by showcasing its ability to reproduce the outcomes of existing examples. In addition to that, the process of gas injection into a water-saturated core sample was simulated using the developed model to mimic CO2 injection into aquifers. The CMG-GEM commercial compositional simulator was used to compare its results with the coreflood model of this study. Phenomenal agreement was achieved with the GEM model, showing only 1.8% and 0.4% error for both components. This confirms the accuracy and reliability of the developed model. In conclusion, this study enhances the state of the art in porous media modeling using OpenFOAM 10, providing a valuable tool for examining fluid interactions in subsurface environments, especially within the context of CCS processes.
Detection and Classification of Voltage Disturbances in Electrical Power Systems Based on Multiresolution Analysis and Negative Selection Algorithm
Authors: Bernardes Haislan , Minussi Carlos Roberto
Published: July 2024

Early detection of threats to electrical energy distribution systems helps professionals make decisions and mitigate interruptions in supply and improper activation of the protection system. Biologically inspired methods, e.g., artificial neural networks, genetic algorithms, and ant colonies, solve optimization problems and facilitate pattern recognition and decision-making. The present work presents a tool for detecting and classifying voltage disturbances based on the negative selection algorithm, which identifies and eliminates self-reactive cells, associated with multiresolution analysis, which analyzes the signal at different scales of detail, allowing a more complete understanding and detailed description of the phenomenon in question. The negative wavelet selection algorithm demonstrates robustness to detect and classify disturbances.
Developing Expert Systems for Improving Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing: A Case Study on Parts Cleaning
Authors: Ioshchikhes Borys , Frank Michael , Elserafi Ghada , Magin Jonathan , Weigold Matthias
Published: July 2024

Despite energy-related financial concerns and the growing demand for sustainability, many energy efficiency measures are not being implemented in industrial practice. There are a number of reasons for this, including a lack of knowledge about energy efficiency potentials and the assessment of energy savings as well as the high workloads of employees. This article describes the systematic development of an expert system, which offers a chance to overcome these obstacles and contribute significantly to increasing the energy efficiency of production machines. The system employs data-driven regression models to identify inefficient parameter settings, calculate achievable energy savings, and prioritize actions based on a fuzzy rule base. Proposed measures are first applied to an analytical real-time simulation model of a production machine to verify that the constraints required for the specified product quality are met. This provides the machine operator with the expert means to apply proposed energy efficiency measures to the physical entity. We demonstrate the development and application of the system for a throughput parts-cleaning machine in the metalworking industry.
Harmonizing Urban Innovation: Exploring the Nexus between Smart Cities and Positive Energy Districts
Authors: Clerici Maestosi Paola
Published: July 2024

The emergence of the Smart City concept in Europe in the early 2010s emphasized the enhancement of livability and sustainability in urban environments through the integrated use of data and sensors as tools for designing comprehensive governance scenarios [...]
Numerical Investigation of Flow Field Distributions and Water and Thermal Management for a Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysis Cell
Authors: Shao Dan , Hu Liangyong , Zhang Guoqing , Hu Kaicheng , Zhang Jiangyun , Liu Jun , Peng Kang , Jiang Liqin , Jiang Wenzhao , Wen Yuliang
Published: July 2024

The proton exchange membrane electrolysis cell (PEMEC) has attracted considerable attention for large-scale and efficient hydrogen production because of its high current density, high hydrogen purity and fast dynamic response. Flow field distributions and water and thermal management characteristics of a PEMEC are vital for electrolytic cell structure and the determination of operating condition. A three-dimensional, non-isothermal, electrochemical model of a PEMEC was established in this manuscript. The flow field distribution and water and thermal management of the PEMEC are discussed. The corresponding results showed that the pressure of the flow channel decreased diagonally from the inlet to the outlet, and the pressure and velocity distribution exhibited a downward opening shape of a parabola. At the same inlet flow rate, when the voltage was 1.6 V, the oxygen generation rate was 15.74 mol/(cm2·s), and when the voltage was 2.2 V, the oxygen generation rate was 332.05 mol/(cm2·s); due to the change in the oxygen production rate, the pressure difference at 2.2 V was 2.5 times than that at 1.6 V. When the stoichiometric number was less than two, the average temperature of the catalyst layer (CL) decreased rapidly with the increase in the water flow rate. When the voltage decreased to 2.1 V, the current density came to the highest value when the stoichiometric number was 0.7, then the current density decreased with an increase in the stoichiometric number. When stoichiometric numbers were higher than five, the surface temperature and current density remained basically stable with the increase in the water flow rate, and the water and thermal management and electrolysis characteristics performed better. The research results could optimize the water supply of electrolysis cells. According to the velocity distribution law of the flow field, the water and thermal management performance of the PEMEC could be estimated, further promoting safety and reliability.
Root Signaling Substances Regulate Carbon Allocation Mechanism in the Plant and Soil of Peatlands under Permafrost Degradation
Authors: Che Lina , Qi Shaoqun , Liu Shuo , Wan Luhe
Published: July 2024

As the regulator of water and nutrient changes in the active layer after permafrost degradation, root signaling substances affect the plant–soil carbon allocation mechanism under climate warming, which is a key issue in the carbon source/sink balance in permafrost regions. To explore how plant root signaling substances regulate carbon allocation in plants and soils under permafrost degradation, the changes in carbon allocation and root signaling substances in the plants and soils of peatland in different permafrost regions at the time of labeling were studied by in situ 13C labeling experiments. The results showed that the fixed 13C of Larix gemlini, Carex schumidtii, and Sphagnum leaves after photosynthesis was affected by permafrost degradation. In regions with more continuous permafrost, the trend of the L. gemlini distribution to underground 13C is more stable. Environmental stress had little effect on the 13C accumulation of Vaccinium uliginosum. Nonstructural carbohydrates, osmotic regulatory substances, hormones, and anaerobic metabolites were the main root signaling substances that regulate plant growth in the peatlands of the three permafrost regions. The allocation of carbon to the soil is more susceptible to the indirect and direct effects of climate and environmental changes, and tree roots are more susceptible to environmental changes than other plants in isolated patches of permafrost regions. The physical properties of the soil are affected by climate change, and the allocation of carbon is regulated by hormones and osmotic regulators while resisting anoxia in the sporadic regions of permafrost. Carbon allocation in discontinuous permafrost areas is mainly regulated by root substances, which are easily affected by the physical and chemical properties of the soil. In general, the community composition of peatlands in permafrost areas is highly susceptible to environmental changes in the soil, and the allocation of carbon from the plant to the soil is affected by the degradation of the permafrost.
Spatio-Temporal Evolution of Vegetation Coverage and Eco-Environmental Quality and Their Coupling Relationship: A Case Study of Southwestern Shandong Province, China
Authors: Ma Dongling , Wang Qian , Huang Qingji , Lin Zhenxin , Yan Yingwei
Published: July 2024

Propelled by rapid economic growth, the southwestern Shandong urban agglomeration (SSUA) in China has become a crucial industrial hub, but this process has somewhat hindered vegetation growth and environmental quality. Leveraging the functionalities of the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform, we derived the fractional vegetation coverage (FVC) through the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and assessed the eco-environmental quality using the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI). To examine the patterns and shifts in the SSUA, we employed the Theil–Sen median slope estimation, which provided robust estimates of linear trends, the Mann–Kendall trend test to determine the statistical significance of these trends, and the Hurst exponent analysis to evaluate the long-term persistence and predict future changes in the vegetation coverage and eco-environmental quality. Furthermore, to explore the interdependencies between vegetation coverage (VC) and environmental quality, we applied an improved coupling coordination degree model (ICCDM). This model allowed us to assess the co-evolution and synergy between these two factors over the study period, providing comprehensive insights for sustainable urban and ecological planning in the region. The VC and eco-environmental quality improved consistently across most of the SSUA from 2000 to 2020. The dominance of VC had transitioned from being predominantly characterized by relatively high VC to being mainly characterized by high VC. A substantial portion of the SSUA is predicted to experience improvements in its VC and environmental quality moving forward. Furthermore, the coupling coordination relationship between VC and environmental conditions in the southwest of Shandong Province generally exhibited a state of orderly coordinated development. With the passage of time, there was a clear tendency toward expansion in the coupled uncoordinated areas distributed in a network within each regional economic center. Our research unveils the dynamics and spatial-temporal patterns of VC and ecological quality in the southwestern Shandong urban agglomeration (SSUA) and elucidates the coupling and coordination mechanism between these two aspects, which provides theoretical support for understanding the healthy development of vegetation and ecology in urban agglomerations in an industrial context.
Whether the Natural Forest Logging Ban Promotes the Improvement and Realization of the Ecosystem Service Value in Northeast China: A Regression Discontinuity Design
Authors: Huang Xianqiao , Li Jingye , Cao Bo , Ren Yue , Cao Yukun
Published: July 2024

To protect forest land from loss and mitigate the global climate crisis, China has proposed a stringent natural forest protection plan, known as China’s natural forest logging ban (NFLB). This policy aims to halt the over-exploitation of natural forests, restore forest ecosystem functions, and promote regional green economic development. This study uses a regression discontinuity design (RDD) model to quantitatively and comprehensively assess the effectiveness of this policy in the key state-owned forest regions in Northeast China. Additionally, it analyzes the heterogeneity and structural characteristics of the policy’s effects on the internal composition of ecological and economic systems. The empirical results are as follows: (1) Ecological and economic impacts: The policy has successfully achieved its ecological objectives by significantly enhancing the quality and value of ecosystem services. However, it has also had a notable adverse impact on economic development, particularly in the timber supply sector, reducing the conversion efficiency of ecosystem service values into economic benefits. (2) Structural analysis: The logging ban effectively promoted the value of various ecosystem services, particularly enhancing regulatory and support functions, with a LATE estimate of approximately 8.47 units. The implementation of the policy caused a negative growth in the output value of supply-oriented ecological products, and the significance level was lower than 0.1. Conversely, the LATE estimates for different types of GDP indicate a negative growth in supply-type GDP due to the policy, with p < 0.1. (3) Heterogeneity: On the one hand, a simplistic and singular approach to logging prohibition may constrain the efficiency of enhancing ecosystem service values. On the other hand, although the policy disrupted the majority of traditional forest enterprise operations, business models focusing on quality and technology improvements were able to mitigate this impact.
Evaluation of the Fungitoxic Effect of Extracts from the Bark of Quercus laeta Liebm, the Cob of Zea mays and the Leaves of Agave tequilana Weber Blue Variety against Trametes versicolor L. Ex Fr
Authors: Gálvez-Martínez Alberto , Jiménez-Amezcua Rosa María , Anzaldo-Hernández José , Lomelí-Ramírez María Guadalupe , Silva-Guzmán José Antonio , Torres-Rendón José Guillermo , García-Enriquez Salvador
Published: July 2024

Wood products used in outdoor applications can be degraded by xylophage organisms. For this reason, such products require treatments based on biocides in order to delay their service life. This brings troubles of its own due to the inherent toxicity of these treatments towards humans and the environment. Therefore, it is imperative to find less-toxic natural preservatives. In this context, this work deals with the evaluation of the fungitoxic effect of raw extracts obtained from three types of agroindustrial waste materials: bark of Quercus laeta spp., the cob of Zea mays, and the leaves of Agave tequilana Weber Blue variety. Extracts were incorporated into the test wood Alnus acuminata (Aile wood) via a full-cell process. Bark extracts provided excellent protection against the attack of Trametes versicolor (L. ex. Fr.) Pilát, improving the decay resistance of Aile wood from being nonresistant to resistant. Also, bark extracts from Q. laeta showed less leaching than the other extracts.
Emerging Chemical, Biochemical, and Non-Thermal Physical Treatments in the Production of Hypoallergenic Plant Protein Ingredients
Authors: Narciso Joan Oñate , Gulzar Saqib , Soliva-Fortuny Robert , Martín-Belloso Olga
Published: July 2024

Allergies towards gluten and legumes (such as, soybean, peanut, and faba bean) are a global issue and, occasionally, can be fatal. At the same time, an increasing number of households are shifting to plant protein ingredients from these sources, which application and consumption are limited by said food allergies. Children, the elderly, and people with immune diseases are particularly at risk when consuming these plant proteins. Finding ways to reduce or eliminate the allergenicity of gluten, soybean, peanut, and faba bean is becoming crucial. While thermal and pH treatments are often not sufficient, chemical processes such as glycation, polyphenol conjugation, and polysaccharide complexation, as well as controlled biochemical approaches, such as fermentation and enzyme catalysis, are more successful. Non-thermal treatments such as microwave, high pressure, and ultrasonication can be used prior to further chemical and/or biochemical processing. This paper presents an up-to-date review of promising chemical, biochemical, and non-thermal physical treatments that can be used in the food industry to reduce or eliminate food allergenicity.
Use of Biomolecular Tools to Control the Labels of Ethnic Food Coming from Eastern Europe
Authors: Dalmasso Alessandra , Pattono Daniele , Bilewski Carla , Biolcati Federica , Maida Silvia , Bottero Maria Teresa
Published: July 2024

In recent years, due to the large Romanian community present in Italy, the retail of foods coming from Eastern Europe has increased. The most common type of violation detected in these foods consists of incorrect labeling and species-replacement frauds. In this paper, the compliance of labels of 43 ethnic processed food coming from Eastern Europe and commercialized in Italy was evaluated by means of PCR and Sanger sequencing. Our data revealed 33% of non-compliant labels in samples containing swine, ruminants, and avian ingredients. These results demonstrate that PCR can be easily used for the identification of species in highly processed products, proving to be a rapid, effective, and economic method. On the other hand, samples reporting fish as ingredients highlighted the ineffectiveness of the applied sequencing protocol, due to the low informative property of targeted fragments or to the lack of consensus sequences in the case of uncommon species.
Effect of a New Fermentation Strain Combination on the Fermentation Process and Quality of Highland Barley Yellow Wine
Authors: Chen Xiaodie , Song Chuan , Zhao Jian , Xiong Zhuang , Peng Lianxin , Zou Liang , Liu Bingliang , Li Qiang
Published: July 2024

Yellow wine fermented from highland barley is an alcoholic beverage with high nutritional value. However, the industrialization of barley yellow wine has been constrained to a certain extent due to the lack of a systematic starter culture. Therefore, the present study aims to simulate barley yellow wine fermentation using a starter culture consisting of Rhizopus arrhizus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia kudriavzevii, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus. In this study, changes in enzyme activity, fermentation characteristics, volatile substance production, and amino acid content during the fermentation of highland barley yellow wine brewed with different starter cultures were evaluated. The results of this study show that regulating the proportion of mixed starter bacteria can effectively control the various stages of the fermentation process and improve the organoleptic characteristics and quality of yellow wine to varying degrees. Additionally, we found that the addition of probiotics could effectively improve the palatability of yellow wine. To the best of our knowledge, we have validated for the first time the use of the above multispecies starter culture, consisting of R. arrhizus, S. cerevisiae, P. kudriavzevii, and L. rhamnosus, in the production of highland barley yellow wine. The obtained findings provided reference data for optimizing highland barley yellow wine fermentation.
Multi-Technique Assessment of Chelators-Loaded PVA-Borax Gel-like Systems Performance in Cleaning of Stone Contaminated with Copper Corrosion Products
Authors: Giuliani Laura , Genova Chiara , Stagno Valeria , Paoletti Luca , Matulac Andrea Louise , Ciccola Alessandro , Di Fazio Melania , Capuani Silvia , Favero Gabriele
Published: July 2024

Currently, one of the most important challenges for the conservation of stone artworks is the removal of metal corrosion products on their surfaces. Traditional cleaning methods, which typically involve the application of aqueous solutions containing chelating agents capable of complexing these metal ions, have shown some weaknesses. These weaknesses become apparent when such methods are applied to statues and other vertical surfaces or when aiming to limit the cleaning process to a specific area with controlled application times. Furthermore, the porosity of the stone surface plays a role concerning the cleaning efficiency. To address these issues, chelating agents can be incorporated into gel-like materials. This study is a proof of concept to evaluate the cleaning efficacy of various gel formulations composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), borax (B), and agarose (AG), loaded with two chelators: ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and potassium sodium tartrate (PST or Rochelle salt). Three types of carbonate stones (travertine, Lecce stone, and Carrara marble) characterized by different porosities were artificially stained with copper sulphates and treated with the different PVA-B-AG formulations. The effectiveness of the treatment was directly monitored on the stones using a multi-technique approach that included scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and non-invasive portable nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Additionally, the rheological properties of the gels were investigated, and the Fourier transform infrared attenuated total reflection spectroscopy (FTIR ATR) was used to analyse the chemical structure of the gel before and after treatment, aiming to understand the changes induced by the cleaning process.
Remarkable Carapace Morphology of Nanhsiungchelys (Testudines: Nanhsiungchelyidae) Revealed by New Material from Ganzhou Basin, Jiangxi Province, China
Authors: Tong Haiyan , Li Lu , Ke Yuzheng , Wang Yanyin , Jie Gongqing , Yi Laiping
Published: July 2024

Two nanhsiungchelyid carapaces from the Upper Cretaceous of Ganzhou Basin, Jiangxi Province, Southern China, are reported and assigned to Nanhsiungchelys sp. The new material reveals an unusual carapace morphology that was either not or poorly preserved in previously known Nanhsiungchelys specimens, including differentiated neurals, alternating costals, significantly modified scutes with vertebrals 4–5 contacting each other at a point, reduced pleurals 2–4 and greatly expanded lateral and posterior marginals. The discovery extends the geographical distribution of Nanhsiungchelys to the Ganzhou Basin.
Mapping Seafloor Sediment Distributions Using Public Geospatial Data and Machine Learning to Support Regional Offshore Renewable Energy Development
Authors: Capizzano Connor W. , Rhoads Alexandria C. , Croteau Jennifer A. , Taylor Benjamin G. , Guarinello Marisa L. , Shumchenia Emily J.
Published: July 2024

Given the rapid expansion of offshore wind development in the United States (US), the accurate mapping of benthic habitats, specifically surficial sediments, is essential for mitigating potential impacts on these valuable ecosystems. However, offshore wind development has outpaced results from environmental monitoring efforts, compelling stakeholders to rely on a limited set of public geospatial data for conducting impact assessments. The present study therefore sought to develop and evaluate a systematic workflow for generating regional-scale sediment maps using public geospatial data that may pose integration and modeling challenges. To demonstrate this approach, sediment distributions were characterized on the northeastern US continental shelf where offshore wind development has occurred since 2016. Publicly available sediment and bathymetric data in the region were processed using national classification standards and spatial tools, respectively, and integrated using a machine learning algorithm to predict sediment occurrence. Overall, this approach and the generated sediment composite effectively predicted sediment distributions in coastal areas but underperformed in offshore areas where data were either scarce or of poor quality. Despite these shortcomings, this study builds on benthic habitat mapping efforts and highlights the need for regional collaboration to standardize seafloor data collection and sharing activities for supporting offshore wind energy decisions.
Bridging the Gap: Dental Students’ Attitudes toward Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
Authors: Asiri Faris Yahya I. , Tennant Marc , Kruger Estie
Published: July 2024

Background: Persons with disabilities (PWDs) face significant barriers in accessing dental care, resulting in poorer oral health outcomes compared to the general population. To reduce dental healthcare disparities, dental professionals must develop positive attitudes and acquire the necessary skills to treat PWDs effectively. This study aimed to assess the experiences, education, training levels, and attitudes of dental students and interns toward PWDs, and to explore the relationships between their exposure to PWDs, their education/training regarding managing PWDs, and their attitudes toward PWDs. Methods: Participants were recruited using convenience sampling. From May to June 2023, a pretested, validated online questionnaire (developed based on existing survey instruments and modified to fit the study context) was distributed to 98 eligible dental students and interns at King Faisal University. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used for analysis. Results: The response rate was 88.78%. There was a statistically positive correlation between students’ exposure to PWDs and their attitudes (p < 0.05). Statistically significant relationships were found between students’ education/training and their attitudes towards educational experiences and instructors (p < 0.01) and interpersonal interactions with PWDs (p < 0.05). No statistically significant relationship existed between the year of study and future encounters with PWDs (p = 0.176). Additionally, 42.5% of students felt inadequately prepared to treat PWDs, and 88.5% expressed a desire for further education. Notably, 20.7% reported no training on PWDs, while 70.1% preferred clinical education. Conclusions: The study underscores the importance of exposure and training in shaping dental students’ attitudes toward PWDs. Dental schools should prioritize structured teaching, greater contact with the disabled community, and hands-on experiences to ensure dental professionals are both well prepared and positively inclined to treat PWDs. These findings have significant implications for improving dental education curricula.
Changes in Sleep Quality, Sleep Duration, and Sickness Absence: A Longitudinal Study with Repeated Measures
Authors: Åkerstedt Torbjörn , Eriksson Julia , Freyland Sara , Widman Linnea , Magnusson Hanson Linda L. , Miley-Åkerstedt Anna
Published: July 2024

Background: Sickness absence has been linked to short and long, as well as poor, sleep in a few studies. Such studies have started from a baseline measurement and followed up on subsequent sickness absence. In the present study, however, we focused on the change in biennial reports of sickness absence and sleep measures (using work-related variables as possible modifiers). We also searched for an interaction between predictors and gender since women report more sleep problems. Methods: A total of 5377 individuals (random sample from the Swedish working population) participated across five biennial points of measurement. Data were analyzed using mixed-model logistic regression. Results: The multivariable analysis of variation across the five time points showed that the significant sleep-related predictors of sickness absence (at least one occurrence during the preceding year) were sleep duration during days off (OR = 1.16, 95% Cl = 1.08;1.24) and sleep problems (OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.33;1.51). These also remained significant after the addition of psychosocial work factors. Sensitivity analyses indicated that a 9 h sleep duration during days off may represent a critical level in terms of increased sickness absence and that late rising contributed to the association between sickness absence and long sleep duration during days off. Women reported a higher sickness absence than men (OR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.74;2.68) and had a higher probability of sickness absence for long sleep during days off and during the workweek than men. Conclusions: It was concluded that increases in sleep problems and sleep duration during days off are longitudinally associated with changes in sickness absence and that women have a closer link between the two. This suggests that treatment for sleep problems may reduce the risk of sickness absence.
The Impact of Wildflower Habitat on Insect Functional Group Abundance in Turfgrass Systems
Authors: Hamon Laura E. , Kilpatrick Lauren D. , Billeisen Terri L.
Published: July 2024

Urbanization is rapidly influencing the abundance and diversity of arthropods. Within urban systems, managed turfgrass is a prominent land cover which can support only a limited number of arthropod groups. To allow for more arthropod biodiversity and to support beneficial insects within turfgrass, increasing numbers of land managers are choosing to partially convert turf habitat to wildflower habitat using commercially available seed mixes. However, the population dynamics of arthropod groups in these systems are poorly known, with consequentially little information on best long-term practices for managing wildflower habitats in turfgrass systems. To address this gap, we sampled insects using pan traps in turfgrass systems pre- and post-implementation of wildflower habitats and examined the change in abundance of several insect families and functional guilds. Insect groups had variable responses to wildflower habitat implementation, with some groups such as sweat bees and skipper butterflies showing a decline two years post-implementation. Other groups, such as predatory flies, were relatively more abundant one and two years post-implementation. These variable responses point to the need for more research on the long-term effects of wildflower habitats on beneficial insects in turfgrass habitats.
Development of a Method for Commercial Style Transfer of Historical Architectural Facades Based on Stable Diffusion Models
Authors: Zhang Jiaxin , Huang Yiying , Li Zhixin , Li Yunqin , Yu Zhilin , Li Mingfei
Published: July 2024

In the sphere of urban renewal of historic districts, preserving and innovatively reinterpreting traditional architectural styles remains a primary research focus. However, the modernization and adaptive reuse of traditional buildings often necessitate changes in their functionality. To cater to the demands of tourism in historic districts, many traditional residential buildings require conversion to commercial use, resulting in a mismatch between their external form and their internal function. This study explored an automated approach to transform traditional residences into commercially viable designs, offering an efficient and scalable solution for the modernization of historic architecture. We developed a methodology based on diffusion models, focusing on a dataset of nighttime shopfront facades. By training a low-rank adaptation (LoRA) model and integrating the ControlNet model, we enhanced the accuracy and stability of the generated images. The methodology’s performance was validated through qualitative and quantitative assessments, optimizing the batch size, repetition, and learning rate configurations. These evaluations confirmed the method’s effectiveness. Our findings significantly advance the modern commercial style transformation of historical architectural facades, providing a novel solution that maintains the aesthetic and functional integrity, thereby fostering breakthroughs in traditional design thinking and exploring new possibilities for the preservation and commercial adaptation of historical buildings.
A Quick Pheromone Matrix Adaptation Ant Colony Optimization for Dynamic Customers in the Vehicle Routing Problem
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Wang Zhitian , Liu Jin
Published: July 2024

The path planning problem is an important issue in maritime search and rescue. This paper models the path planning problem as a dynamic vehicle routing problem. It first designs a dynamic generator that transforms the existing benchmark sets for the static vehicle routing problem into dynamic scenarios. Subsequently, it proposes an effective Dynamic Ant Colony Optimization (DACO) algorithm, whose novelty lies in that it dynamically adjusts the pheromone matrix to efficiently handle customers’ changes. Moreover, DACO incorporates simulated annealing to increase population diversity and employs a local search operator that is dedicated to route modification for continuous performance maximization of the route. The experimental results demonstrated that the proposed DACO outperformed existing approaches in generating better routes across various benchmark sets. Specifically, DACO achieved significant improvements in the route cost, serviced customer quantity, and adherence to time window requirements. These results highlight the superiority of DACO in the dynamic vehicle routing problem, providing an effective solution for similar problems.
A New Framework, Measurement, and Determinants of the Digital Divide in China
Authors: Zhou Yuanren , Chen Menggen , Liu Xiaojie , Chen Yun
Published: July 2024

The digital divide (DD) reflects the inequality of the digital economy, while existing research lacks a comprehensive framework for investigating the measurement of DD and its determinants. This study constructs a new framework with a five-dimensional comprehensive index system. City-level data are used to measure China’s DD index from 2010 to 2020 at the national, regional, and provincial levels. Furthermore, this study investigates the decomposition of DD at both regional and provincial levels and the determinants of DD from the perspectives of physical, human, and social capital. The key results are: (1) China’s DD has generally exhibited a fluctuating downward trend. While it remains high in the eastern and western regions, it has shown a decline year by year. However, the DD within most provinces is on the rise. (2) The intra-regional and inter-provincial are the primary drivers of changes in national DD, with both intra-regional and intra-provincial contribution rates on the rise. (3) Economic growth, infrastructure, foreign trade, education, and online interaction significantly impact DD, and these determinants may change at different periods. This study intends to provide empirical support for bridging the DD, fostering the balanced development of the digital economy, and reducing social inequality.
Feature Fusion-Based Re-Ranking for Home Textile Image Retrieval
Authors: Miao Ziyi , Yao Lan , Zeng Feng , Wang Yi , Hong Zhiguo
Published: July 2024

In existing image retrieval algorithms, negative samples often appear at the forefront of retrieval results. To this end, in this paper, we propose a feature fusion-based re-ranking method for home textile image retrieval, which utilizes high-level semantic similarity and low-level texture similarity information of an image and strengthens the feature expression via late fusion. Compared with single-feature re-ranking, the proposed method combines the ranking diversity of multiple features to improve the retrieval accuracy. In our re-ranking process, Markov random walk is used to update the similarity metrics, and we propose local constraint diffusion based on contextual similarity. Finally, the fusion–diffusion algorithm is used to optimize the sorted list via combining multiple similarity metrics. We set up a large-scale home textile image dataset, which contains 89k home textile product images from 12k categories, and evaluate the image retrieval performance of the proposed model with the Recall@k and mAP@K metrics. The experimental results show that the proposed re-ranking method can effectively improve the retrieval results and enhance the performance of home textile image retrieval.
Quantum Injectivity of Frames in Quaternionic Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Xu Zhenheng , Hong Guoqing , Guo Zuhua , Zhang Jianxia
Published: July 2024

A quantum injective frame is a frame capable of differentiating states based on their respective frame measurements, whereas the quantum-detection problem associated with frames endeavors to delineate all such frames. In the present paper, the concept of injective frames in infinite dimensional quaternionic Hilbert spaces is introduced. Further, some properties of injective frames such as the invariance of injective frames under invertible operators are discussed and several solutions to the frame quantum-detection problem are given. Finally, by employing operator theory and frames theory in quaternionic Hilbert spaces, some characterizations and classifications of frames for solving the injectivity problem are given.