bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Virtual Reality in Improving Home Cancer Care: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Elkefi Safa , Choudhury Avishek
Published: January 2025

Virtual reality (VR) can play an important role in supporting remote care for cancer patients. The purpose of this study is to explore the possible applications of VR in-home cancer care to support patients and healthcare practitioners. We conducted a systematic literature search following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We searched for peer-reviewed publications in PubMed, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore for research articles published in the last two decades. After the final list of relevant articles was identified, we adopted an inductive approach to categorize and report our findings. We identified 15 relevant research articles and categorized them into three themes: medical treatment, emotional support, and education and training. Six articles leveraged VR to support medical treatment such as outpatient physical therapy and rehabilitation, and pain management. Five used VR to provide emotional support to patients by uplifting their feelings or providing psychological guidance. Lastly, four leveraged VR for education and training purposes. Overall, all studies reported positive outcomes of VR for home cancer care. Our review advocates for VR integration in in-home cancer care. The findings of this review acknowledge the potential of VR in augmenting medical treatment, providing emotional support to patients, and facilitating the education and training of patients and clinicians. VR in-home cancer care can provide patients with a better quality of care. However, just like any other technological integration, VR can also introduce different challenges, including usability, affordability, and acceptance. Therefore, more studies evaluating VR’s usability and acceptance should be conducted. Additionally, stakeholders such as regulatory bodies, patients, and payors should be involved in ensuring VR’s affordability and developing protocols for its safe use.
A Digital Twin Approach for Soil Moisture Measurement with Physically Based Rendering Simulations and Machine Learning
Authors: Parewai Ismail , Köppen Mario
Published: January 2025

Soil is one of the most important factors of agricultural productivity, directly influencing crop growth, water management, and overall yield. However, inefficient soil moisture monitoring methods, such as manual observation and gravimetric in rural areas, often lead to overwatering or underwatering, wasting resources and reduced yields, and harming soil health. This study offers a digital twin approach for soil moisture measurement, integrating real-time physical data, virtual simulations, and machine learning to classify soil moisture conditions. The digital twin is proposed as a virtual representation of physical soil designed to replicate real-world behavior. We used a multispectral rotocam, and high-resolution soil images were captured under controlled conditions. Physically based rendering (PBR) materials were created from these data and implemented in a game engine to simulate soil properties accurately. Image processing techniques were applied to extract key features, followed by machine learning algorithms to classify soil moisture levels (wet, normal, dry). Our results demonstrate that the Soil Digital Twin replicates real-world behavior, with the Random Forest model achieving a high classification accuracy of 96.66% compared to actual soil. This data-driven approach conveys the potential of the Soil Digital Twin to enhance precision farming initiatives and water use efficiency for sustainable agriculture.
Sustainable Design in Agriculture—Energy Optimization of Solar Greenhouses with Renewable Energy Technologies
Authors: Nikolić Danijela , Jovanović Saša , Jurišević Nebojša , Nikolić Novak , Radulović Jasna , Velemir Radović Minja , Grujić Isidora
Published: January 2025

In modern agriculture today, the cultivation of agricultural products cannot be imagined without greenhouses. This paper presents an energy optimization of a solar greenhouse with a photovoltaic system (PV) and a ground-source heat pump (GSHP). The PV system generates electricity, while the GSHP is used for heating and cooling. A greenhouse is designed with an Open Studio plug-in in the Google SketchUp environment, the EnergyPlus software (8.7.1 version) was used for energy simulation, and the GenOpt software (2.0.0 version) was used for optimization of the azimuth angle and PV cell efficiency. Results for different solar greenhouse orientations and different photovoltaic module efficiency are presented in the paper. The obtained optimal azimuth angle of the solar greenhouse was −8°. With the installation of a PV array with higher module efficiency (20–24%), it is possible to achieve annual energy savings of 6.87–101.77%. Also, with the PV module efficiency of 23.94%, a concept of zero-net-energy solar greenhouses (ZNEG) is achieved at optimal azimuth and slope angle. Through the environmental analysis of different greenhouses, CO2 emissions of PV and GSHP are calculated and compared with electricity usage. Saved CO2 emission for a zero-net-energy greenhouse is 6626 kg CO2/year. An economic analysis of installed renewable energy systems was carried out: with the total investment of 19,326 € for ZNEG, the payback period is 8.63 years.
Integration of a Heterogeneous Battery Energy Storage System into the Puducherry Smart Grid with Time-Varying Loads
Authors: Sasi Bhushan M A , Sudhakaran M. , Dasarathan Sattianadan , E Mariappane
Published: January 2025

A peak shaving approach in selected industrial loads helps minimize power usage during high demand hours, decreasing total energy expenses while improving grid stability. A battery energy storage system (BESS) can reduce peak electricity demand in distribution networks. Quasi-dynamic load flow analysis (QLFA) accurately assesses the maximum loading conditions in distribution networks by considering factors such as load profiles, system topology, and network constraints. Achieving maximum peak shaving requires optimizing battery charging and discharging cycles based on real-time energy generation and consumption patterns. Seamless integration of battery storage with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and industrial processes is essential for effective peak shaving strategies. This paper proposes a model predictive control (MPC) scheme that can effectively perform peak shaving of the total industrial load. Adopting an MPC-based algorithm design framework enables the development of an effective control strategy for complex systems. The proposed MPC methodology was implemented and tested on the Indian Utility 29 Node Distribution Network (IU29NDN) using the DIgSILENT Power Factory environment. Additionally, the analysis encompasses technical and economic results derived from a simulated storage operation and, taking Puducherry State Electricity Department tariff details, provides significant insights into the application of this method.
The Economic Feasibility of Battery Electric Trucks: A Review of the Total Cost of Ownership Estimates
Authors: Danielis Romeo , Niazi Arsalan Muhammad Khan , Scorrano Mariangela , Masutti Manuela , Awan Asees Muhammad
Published: January 2025

This paper reviews the existing studies employing total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis to evaluate the comparative economic viability of battery electric trucks (BETs) and diesel trucks (DTs). A key finding is that until recent years, BETs have not been cost-competitive with DTs. Light-duty trucks and medium-duty trucks started to become competitive in 2021 (1) according to some estimates, whereas heavy-duty trucks might remain to be not competitive even in future decades. However, (2) TCO estimates differ across continents. (3) The combing effect of fuel prices and taxes is most likely responsible for the fact that BETs enjoy a stronger competitive position relative to DTs in Europe, Asia, and Oceania, whereas, in North America, most estimates assign them poor competitiveness, both presently and in the coming years. (4) Most studies underline that significant cost disproportions persist in the heavy-duty truck segment due to its demanding operational requirements and a lack of robust high-powered charging infrastructure. Consequently, substantial financial incentives and subsidies will be required for heavy-duty trucks to enhance their economic viability, potentially accelerating cost parity from post-2035 to the near future. This paper identifies several constraints in its TCO analysis, including limited data on residual values, variability in discount rates, depreciation costs, and a lack of longitudinal and market data for BETs.
Energy Supply Chains in the Digital Age: A Review of Current Research and Trends
Authors: Tubis Agnieszka A. , Poturaj Honorata
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: Digital transformation is critical in further developing the energy supply chain. The attainment of successive levels of digital maturity by chain participants translates into numerous benefits related to the efficiency, cost, and effectiveness of the energy flows implemented. However, the increasing degree of digitalisation and automation generates an increased risk of cyberattacks and other challenges related to the operation of the smart grid. This paper presents the results of a literature review describing the phenomenon of digital transformation in the energy supply chain. (2) Methods: The literature review was performed using two review methods. First, a systematic literature review was conducted using the PRISMA method. However, due to unsatisfactory results, this review was supplemented by a search supporting a narrative review. (3) Results: Analysing the identified publications made it possible to distinguish nine leading research trends related to digital transformation in the energy supply chain. These trends were characterised based on the described research results, and all articles were classified into the corresponding categories. (4) Conclusions: The presented results provide interesting material for further research related to building resilience in the energy supply chain and selected Industry 4.0 tools for assessing and managing risks associated with the operation of the energy sector.
Development of Hydrogen Fuel Cell–Battery Hybrid Multicopter System Thermal Management and Power Management System Based on AMESim
Authors: Choi JiHyun , Park Hyun-Jong , Han Jaeyoung
Published: January 2025

Urban Air Mobility (UAM) is gaining attention as a solution to urban population growth and air pollution. Hydrogen fuel cells are applied to overcome the limitations of battery-based UAM, utilizing a PEMFC (Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell) with batteries in a hybrid system to enhance responsiveness. Power management improves efficiency through effective power distribution under varying loads, while thermal management maintains optimal stack temperatures to prevent degradation. This study developed a hydrogen fuel cell–battery hybrid multicopter system using AMESim, consisting of a 138 kW fuel cell stack, 60 kW battery, DC–DC converters, and thrust motors. A rule-based power management system was implemented to define power distribution strategies based on SOC and load demand. The system’s operating range was designed to allocate power according to battery SOC and load variations. For an initial SOC of 45%, the power management system distributed power for flight, and the results showed that the state machine control system reduced hydrogen consumption by 5.85% and parasitic energy by 1.63% compared to the rule-based system.
From ONE Health to ONE Paleopathology: Deep-Time Perspectives on Health in the Face of Climate and Environmental Change
Authors: Robbins Schug Gwen , Buikstra Jane E.
Published: January 2025

This entry explores the emergence of ONE Paleopathology as a holistic, interdisciplinary approach to understanding health through deep time. The entry discusses key areas where paleopathological research provides crucial insights: animals as sentinels of environmental health, the evolution and transmission of infectious diseases, the impacts of urbanization and pollution on human health, and the effects of climate change on disease patterns. Special attention is given to case studies involving malaria, tuberculosis, and environmental toxicity, demonstrating how past human–environment interactions inform current health strategies. The entry also emphasizes the importance of indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) systems in understanding and managing health challenges, highlighting how traditional ecological knowledge complements scientific approaches. By bridging past and present, ONE Paleopathology offers valuable perspectives for addressing modern health challenges in the context of accelerating environmental change, while promoting more equitable and sustainable approaches to global health.
Common Biases, Difficulties, and Errors in Clinical Reasoning in Veterinary Medical Encounters with a Case Example
Authors: Petrovski Kiro Risto , Kirkwood Roy Neville
Published: January 2025

Clinical reasoning is an essential competence of veterinary graduands. Unfortunately, clinical reasoning and, therefore, the quality of provided veterinary medical services are prone to bias, difficulties, and errors. The literature on biases, difficulties, and errors in clinical reasoning in veterinary medical education is scarce or focused on theoretical rather than practical application. In this review, we address the practicality of learning and teaching biases, difficulties, and errors in clinical reasoning to veterinary learners utilizing a practical example of a cow with a prolapsed uterus complicated by hypocalcemia and hypomagnesemia. Learners should be guided through all of the stages of clinical reasoning as much as possible under direct supervision. The common clinical biases, difficulties, or errors in veterinary medical encounters may differ between stages of development of the learner, with more difficulties occurring in earlier stages (Observer, Reporter, ±Interpreter) but more heuristic biases occurring at later stages (Manager, Educator, ±Interpreter). However, clinical errors may occur at any learner development stage. Therefore, remediation of clinical biases, difficulties, and errors in veterinary medical encounters should use strategies that are tailored to the level of development of the learner, but also to the specific encounter (e.g., client, patient, and context).
Impacts of an Intermittent Bus Lane on Local Air Quality: Lessons from an Effectiveness Study
Authors: Hudda Neelakshi , Woollacott Isabelle S. , Pradeep Nisitaa Karen Clement , Durant John L.
Published: January 2025

Bus lanes with intermittent prioritization (BLIPs) have been proposed as a way to reduce traffic burden and improve air quality along busy urban streets; however, to date, the impacts of BLIPs on local-scale air quality have not been thoroughly evaluated, due in part to challenges in study design. We measured traffic-emission proxies—black carbon aerosol and ultrafine particles—before and after the installation of a BLIP in the Boston area (Massachusetts, USA) in 2021, and compared our data with traffic measurements to determine whether changes in air quality were attributable to changes in traffic patterns. We used both stationary and mobile monitoring to characterize temporal and spatial variations in air quality both before and after the BLIP went into operation. Although the BLIP led to a reduction in traffic volume (~20%), we did not find evidence that this reduction caused a significant change in local air quality. Nonetheless, substantial spatial and temporal differences in pollutant concentrations were observed; the highest concentrations occurred closest to a nearby highway along a section of the bus lane that was in an urban canyon, likely causing pollutant trapping. Wind direction was a dominant influence: pollutant concentrations were generally higher during winds that oriented the bus lane downwind of or parallel to the highway. Based on our findings, we recommend in future studies to evaluate the effectiveness of BLIPs that: (i) traffic and air quality measurements be collected simultaneously for several non-weekend days immediately before and immediately after bus lanes are first put into operation; (ii) the evaluation should be performed when other significant changes in motorists’ driving behavior and bus ridership are not anticipated; and (iii) coordinated efforts be made to increase bus ridership and incentivize motorists to avoid using the bus lane during the hours of intermittent prioritization.
Structure Effects on Mechanical Properties of a Novel Engineered Wood Product: Cross-Laminated-Thick Veneers Based on Infinite Splicing Technology
Authors: Yang Yuxin , Hu Juan , Ning Xinguang , Zhang Yahui , He Yingqi , Gong Yingchun , Yu Wenji , Huang Yuxiang
Published: January 2025

With increasing global concern over carbon emissions in the construction industry, cross-laminated-thick veneer (CLTV) has emerged as an innovative green building material with significant potential to promote the achievement of “dual-carbon” goals. This study developed a groove and tenon splicing technique for thick veneers, enabling infinite splicing of the length direction and the preparation of a large-size CLTV measuring 12 m (length) × 3.25 m (width) × 105 mm (thickness). The mechanical properties of CLTV were studied in relation to splice position, assembly pattern of grain directions, and layer combinations. The results showed that increasing the number of // layers (// or ⊥ indicates grain direction of layer parallel or perpendicular to the length direction of CLTV) and using high-level layers significantly improved the compressive strength and reduced the coefficient of variation of CLTV. In terms of bending properties, reasonable splice distribution, placing // layers away from the neutral axis, and elevating layer level dramatically enhanced CLTV performance. Furthermore, the study revealed the synergistic effect among these design elements. The effects of layer level and the number of // layers on mechanical properties varied depending on splice arrangement and assembly pattern of grain directions, highlighting the importance of efficient structural design and raw material selection. This study addresses the limitations of traditional cross-laminated timber in raw material selection and production efficiency. Through structural innovation, it offers a solution for physical design and performance regulation, enabling the application of larger CLTV in wood structures and presenting new ideas for using fast-growing wood to reduce construction emissions.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Germplasm Resources in Various Goji Cultivars Based on Leaf Anatomical Traits
Authors: Yang Zijun , Dai Guoli , Qin Ken , Wu Jiali , Wang Zhonghua , Wang Cuiping
Published: January 2025

The leaf is a critical organ for assimilation in plants, and the anatomical structure of the leaf can reflect the adaptability of plants to their environment to a certain extent. The research objects in this investigation were 36 different cultivars (lines) of goji germplasm resources. The structure and stoma condition of healthy leaves were the subject of a comparative investigation. Significant variations in leaf structural indices and stoma were identified among various goji cultivars (lines). The leaves of goji were the thickest and possessed the lowest stoma density. The resilience of goji germplasm resources was assessed using the main component analysis approach and the membership function. The results showed that LR (L. ruthenicum Murr.) and LCy (L. cylindricum Kuang) exhibited the strongest resistance. Goji resistance is significantly influenced by thickness of the upper cuticle (TUC) and thickness of the lower cuticle (TLC), according to the analytical results for several leaf anatomical indicators and stress resistance. By analyzing the wax content of 13 different goji cultivars (lines) and field infection results, it was found that Tianjing 3 had the highest wax content, the smallest average number of galls, and the smallest infection area. This suggests that Tianjing 3 has the strongest resistance to Aceria pallida, and that its insect resistance is correlated with its wax content. This study offers a thorough assessment of 36 goji germplasm resources’ resilience, providing a point of reference for the selection and propagation of resistant cultivars within these resources.
Fraud Detection in Cryptocurrency Networks—An Exploration Using Anomaly Detection and Heterogeneous Graph Transformers
Authors: Pérez-Cano Víctor , Jurado Francisco
Published: January 2025

Blockchains are the backbone behind cryptocurrency networks, which have developed rapidly in the last two decades. However, this growth has brought several challenges due to the features of these networks, specifically anonymity and decentralization. One of these challenges is the fight against fraudulent activities performed in these networks, which, among other things, involve financial schemes, phishing attacks or money laundering. This article will address the problem of identifying fraud cases among a large set of transactions extracted from the Bitcoin network. More specifically, our study’s goal was to find reliable techniques to label Bitcoin transactions, taking into account their features. The approach followed involved two kinds of Machine Learning methods. On the one hand, anomaly detection algorithms were applied to determine whether fraudulent activities tend to show anomalous behaviour without resorting to manually obtained labels. On the other hand, Heterogeneous Graph Transformers were used to leverage the heterogeneous relational nature of the cryptocurrency information. As a result, the article will provide reasonable conclusions to acknowledge that unsupervised approaches can be useful for fraud detection on blockchain networks. Furthermore, the effectiveness of supervised graph methods was revalidated, emphasizing the importance of data heterogeneity.
The Relationship Between Burning Factors and Mediterranean Climatic Conditions in the Croatian Coastal Part
Authors: Rosavec Roman , Barčić Damir , Rožman Toni , Ugarković Damir
Published: January 2025

Climate conditions have long been recognised as an important factor influencing the start and spread of forest fires in Mediterranean areas. This is partly due to the long dry periods that characterise these regions. Mixed forest ecosystems are more stable than monocultures. This study was conducted at two sites, the city of Makarska (the southern coast of the Croatian Mediterranean) and the island of Rab (the northern island of the Croatian Mediterranean). The main variables examined, flammability, combustion and the moisture content of potential forest fuel, best define the start and spread of fires. The aim of the study was to examine the influence of climate factors on these variables using the example of mock privet (Phillyrea latifolia L.). The results showed that moisture content of fuel was a key variable in direct correlation with the influence of climate factors. Though the Mediterranean region is burdened by fires and they will continue to occur in the future due to changing conditions, the study results can contribute to reducing burned areas in fires for the purpose of preserving Mediterranean ecosystems.
Garlic Powder Evaluation as Feed Additive on Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.) Growth Performance, Feed Utilization, Gill Parasitic Treatment, and Monogenean Diversity
Authors: Salgado-Moreno Socorro Marisa , Gutiérrez-Leyva Ranferi , Carmona-Gasca Carlos Alfredo , Martínez-González Sergio , Ramírez-Ramírez José Carmen , De La Cruz-Moreno Carlos Omar , Borrayo-González Juan José Fernando
Published: January 2025

The present study evaluates garlic powder (GP) effects on growth performance, feed utilization, gill parasitic treatment, and monogenean diversity. Thus, a trial was performed under controlled conditions with 84 juvenile Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (39.8 ± 8.8 g initial weight), from culture ponds with monogenean parasite presence for 30 days. Four balanced diets in protein (32.5%) and lipids (6.4%) with GP inclusion levels of 0%, 1%, 2%, and 3% were formulated, manufactured, and supplied daily at approximately 6.5% body weight/tank. The GP diets, compared to the Control (without GP), indicated that the three inclusion levels did not affect the water quality, survival, growth performance, and feed utilization parameters (p > 0.05). No differences were observed in the parasitological index of prevalence (20–25%), mean intensity (9.6–28), and mean abundance (2.7–5.3) among the experimental diets (p > 0.05), evidencing no effect by inclusion level. Efficacy among GP diets indicated a potential decrease in parasite number (13.4–45.6%) but not all monogenean gill parasites. In conclusion, GP diets did not affect the Nile tilapia survival, growth performance, and feed utilization parameters; therefore, its use is suggested as a preventive alternative for monogenean gill parasites.
Report on Intersex and Abnormal Mature Aquacultured Walleye Pollock, Gadus chalcogrammus
Authors: Yoo Hae-Kyun , Woo Soo-Ji , Lee Ki-Wook , Joo Min-Soo , Kim Kyeong-Duck , Park Jung-Jun , Kim So-Sun
Published: January 2025

Walleye pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus) is a commercially important species widely distributed in cold-water regions. We have been culturing this species artificially since 2015. The average embryo diameter was 1.43 ± 0.056 mm, and hatching occurred at 5 °C approximately 339 h post-fertilization. Gonadal development became visibly apparent at a body size of 10–15 cm after ~180 days, initially distinguishing ovaries with the development of germ cells, whereas testes were observable after further maturation. We discovered two intersexes from F1 and F2 generations, and one abnormal mature individual from F2. Morphologically, intersex walleye pollock exhibited distinct characteristics of ovary and testes, with male gonads visibly connected to the end of ovaries. In intersex walleye pollock aged 3–6 years, the gonads developed normally, and oocyte resorption was restricted to the area near the connections between testicular and ovarian tissues, with numerous atretic oocytes observed in the resorption zone. Primordial germ cells were found together in individuals who had not undergone spawning, indicating an abnormal maturation pattern. Although no significant differences in the gonadosomatic index were observed between intersex and normal individuals, further research on intersexuality is necessary to understand the reproductive development of this species and the health of offspring spawned by intersex individuals, which are rare.
Evaluating Batch Imaging as a Method for Non-Lethal Identification of Freshwater Fishes
Authors: Pratt Conrad James , Mandrak Nicholas E.
Published: January 2025

Freshwater fish community surveys are an important component of aquatic ecosystem management. However, the standard method for taxonomic identification currently used for these surveys, wherein fishes are manually identified in the field by a taxonomic expert, has several shortcomings. These include handling-related fish injury and mortality, the need for a fish-identification expert to be present during field sampling, and additional fish mortality due to physical voucher collection. These shortcomings may be overcome using new methods such as environmental DNA (eDNA) or image analyses. While eDNA can provide fish community data through metabarcoding, it is costly and provides little ecological information. A novel, image-based method for taxonomic identification (“batch-image identification”), which addresses the shortcomings of standard and eDNA methods, was tested in this study. Fishes were captured in the field and photographed in small groups (“batches”) within fish viewers for subsequent identification by taxonomic experts. Comparing taxonomist-based identifications from batch images to specimen-based identification, batch-image identification yielded an overall species-level correct-identification rate (CIR) of 49.7%, and an overall genus-level CIR of 61.2%. CIR increased with taxonomist expertise, reaching 83% when identification was performed by expert taxonomists. Batch-image identification data also produced rarefaction curves and fish-length measurements comparable to those obtained through standard methods. Potential methodological improvements to batch-image identification, including procedural adjustments and alternative identification methods, provide direction for the continued testing and improvement of this method.
Parametric Instabilities in Time-Varying Compressible Linear Flows
Authors: Kiorpelidis Ioannis , Bakas Nikolaos A.
Published: January 2025

The stability of time-dependent compressible linear flows, which are characterized by periodic variations in either their shape or their shear, is investigated. Two novel parametric instabilities are found: an instability that occurs for periodically wobbling elliptic vortices at a number of discrete oscillation frequencies that are proportional to the Mach number and an instability that occurs for all linear flows at various frequencies of the shear oscillation that depend on the Mach number. In addition, the physical mechanism underlying the instabilities is explained in terms of the linear interaction of three waves with time-varying wavevectors that describe the evolution of perturbations: a vorticity wave representing the evolution of incompressible perturbations and two counter-propagating acoustic waves. Elliptical instability occurs because the scale of the acoustic waves decreases exponentially and their wave action is conserved, leading to an exponential increase in the acoustic waves’ energies. The instability in shear-varying flows is driven by the interaction between vorticity and the acoustic waves, which couple through the shear and for specific frequencies resonate parametrically, leading to exponential or linear growth.
Detection of Adulteration of Extra Virgin Olive Oil via Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and Ultraviolet-Visible-Near-Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Nanou Eleni , Bekogianni Marios , Stamatoukos Theodoros , Couris Stelios
Published: January 2025

The fast detection of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) adulteration with poorer quality and lower price vegetable oils is important for the protection of consumers and the market of olive oil from fraudulent activities, the latter exhibiting an increasing trend worldwide during the last few years. In this work, two optical spectroscopic techniques, namely, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and UV-Vis-NIR absorption spectroscopy, are employed and are assessed for EVOO adulteration detection, using the same set of olive oil samples. In total, 184 samples were studied, including 40 EVOOs and 144 binary mixtures with pomace, soybean, corn, and sunflower oils, at various concentrations (ranging from 10 to 90% w/w). The emission data from LIBS, related to the elemental composition of the samples, and the UV-Vis-NIR absorption spectra, related to the organic ingredients content, are analyzed, both separately and combined (i.e., fused), by Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), Support Vector Machines (SVMs), and Logistic Regression (LR). In all cases, very highly predictive accuracies were achieved, attaining, in some cases, 100%. The present results demonstrate the potential of both techniques for efficient and accurate olive oil authentication issues, with the LIBS technique being better suited as it can operate much faster.
Exploitation of the Nutraceutical Potential of the Infesting Seaweed Chaetomorpha linum as a Yellow Mealworms’ Feed: Focus on Nutrients and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Brai Annalaura , Brogi Edoardo , Tarchi Franca , Poggialini Federica , Vagaggini Chiara , Simoni Sauro , Francardi Valeria , Dreassi Elena
Published: January 2025

According to the Sustainable Blue Economy Communication, the Farm to Fork Strategy, and the European Green Deal, novel business models supporting the use of resources from oceans and seas are of primary importance. Interestingly, several infesting seaweeds are consumed as foods in Asia and are fundamental ingredients in several traditional dishes. Herein, according to the circular economy approach, we investigate the use of Chaetomorpha linum (CL) as a Tenebrio molitor larvae feed in different percentages: 20%, 50%, and 100%, respectively. We analyzed the effects of CL on the survival and biometric parameters of larvae. The survival rate remained comparable to the control, while the mean weight was inversely proportional to the CL%. The nutrient composition was substantially different from the control, showing increased protein and reduced fat content. Analysis of the secondary metabolites revealed a better fatty acid composition, rich in PUFA, with lipid nutritional indexes comparable to seaweeds and crabs. The simulated gastrointestinal digestion highlights the increased content of essential amino acids, and a two times higher antioxidant activity with respect to the control. Taken together, our results confirm that CL can be used as a TML supplement, with beneficial effects in protein content and fat quality.
Effects of Glycerol Monooleate on Improving Quality Characteristics and Baking Performance of Frozen Dough Breads
Authors: Liu Haocheng , Yang Jiguo , Xu Yujuan , Wen Jing , Zhou Jinfeng , Xu Zhijie , Li Jian , Sun Xueke , Si Weili
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the impact of glycerol monooleate (MO) at varying levels (0.3%, 0.6%, 0.9%, and 1.2%) on the quality and baking properties of frozen dough. Low-field NMR and MRI were used to analyze the moisture distribution, water migration, and structural changes during frozen storage. The results indicated that MO reduced the content of free water, leading to a decrease in the spin–spin relaxation time of free water (T23). At the same time, the increase in the content of bound water resulted in an increase in the spin–spin relaxation time of bound water (T21). Rheological and SEM analyses revealed that MO preserved the dough’s microstructure and improved its rheological properties, reducing mechanical damage and inhibiting free water crystallization. This study found that by 8 weeks of frozen storage, the frozen dough containing 0.6% MO exhibited the best fermentation performance, with a larger fermentation volume and specific volume, and lower bread hardness, measuring 80 mL, 3.48 mL/g, and 1.10 N, respectively. These findings highlight MO’s potential in terms of enhancing frozen dough quality by maintaining the moisture balance and structural integrity during storage, offering a practical approach to improving bakery product quality.
Sustainable Extraction Technology of Fruit and Vegetable Residues as Novel Food Ingredients
Authors: Zheng Shiqi , Huang Zhoumei , Dong Li , Li Daotong , Hu Xiaosong , Chen Fang , Ma Chen
Published: January 2025

Background: Fruit and vegetable waste (FVW) is a global waste issue with environmental impacts. It contains valuable compounds such as polysaccharides, polyphenols, proteins, vitamins, pigments, and fatty acids, which can be extracted for food applications. This study aims to review sustainable extraction methods for FVW and its potential in the food industry. Methods: This paper provides an overview of the sources and sustainable methods of high value-added compounds extracted from FVW. Sustainable techniques, including supercritical fluid extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction, are compared with traditional methods, for their efficiency in extracting high-value compounds from FVW while minimizing environmental impact. Discussions: Sustainable extraction of FVW compounds is sustainable and beneficial for novel food ingredients. However, challenges in scalability and cost need to be addressed for wider adoption in the food sector. Conclusions: Sustainable extraction techniques effectively extract phytochemicals from FVW, preserving bioactivity and reducing environmental load. These methods show promise for sustainable food ingredient development.
An Evaluation of Cellulose Hydrogels Derived from tequilana Weber Bagasse for the Regeneration of Gingival Connective Tissue in Lagomorphs
Authors: López-Domínguez Silvia , Cuevas-González Juan Carlos , Espinosa-Cristóbal León Francisco , Ríos-Arana Judith Virginia , Saucedo Acuña Rosa Alicia , Cuevas-González María Verónica , Zaragoza-Contreras Erasto Armando , Tovar Carrillo Karla Lizette
Published: January 2025

Cellulose hydrogels derived from agave bagasse were formulated to promote the regeneration of gingival connective tissue in lagomorphs. Three treatment modalities were randomly implanted in the gingival diastema area in 16 rabbits. The general characteristics were analyzed and histopathological studies were carried out at 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks. A chi-squared test was performed using IBM-SPSS version 25, indicating that cellulose hydrogels implanted in lagomorph’s gingival tissue showed the presence of greater angiogenesis and fibrogenesis at the four evaluation intervals during 16 consecutive weeks. The presence of inflammatory infiltrates had no significant impact. No significant changes were observed in body weight and water and food intake. This suggests that hydrogels contribute to the regeneration and/or repair of oral connective tissue, showing angiogenesis and fibrogenesis in 50 to 100% of rabbits tested with hydrogel cellulose membrane. Regarding angiogenesis, in the specimens where membranes were implanted, its presence predominated in all variants (50%), followed by diffuse angiogenesis (37.5%), and finally the absence of angiogenesis (12.5%).
Self-Reactive Carbon Dioxide Absorbent with Sodium Carbonate-Based Hydrogel
Authors: Kim Jae Young , Lee Youn Suk
Published: January 2025

Sodium carbonate is an abundant, low-cost, and low-hazard raw material widely used as a food additive and CO2 absorbent in the food industry. However, its application in food packaging is limited because it is used in solid form, either in sachets or as a compounding ingredient in plastics. Solid sodium carbonate requires an external moisture supply for CO2 absorption, with its performance dependent on moisture availability. This limitation hinders its commercialization in food packaging applications. We developed a sodium carbonate-based, self-reactive CO2 absorbent hydrogel incorporating polyacrylic acid sodium salt (PAAS). This sodium carbonate hydrogel (SCH-PAAS) exhibits self-reactivity, eliminating the need for external moisture, and demonstrates a high CO2 absorption capacity. PAAS incorporation facilitates the formation of a porous structure during gel solidification through reactions with CO2. Increased PAAS content accelerates CO2 absorption rates, particularly under low-temperature conditions (10 °C and 25 °C). Notably, absorption was faster at 10 °C than at 25 °C. The proposed SCH-PAAS exhibits a significantly enhanced absorption performance at low temperatures compared to conventional sodium carbonate-based materials, which exhibit reduced efficiency under such conditions. The increased gas–liquid contact area in SCH-PAAS makes it highly suitable for fresh food packaging applications, particularly under low temperatures.
Becoming, Writing Home: The Journey Towards Self for Community in Under the Udala Trees and the Binti Trilogy
Authors: Nwabara Olaocha Nwadiuto
Published: January 2025

This paper focuses on the process of being and becoming as represented in the novels Under the Udala Trees and Binti (series). It draws from Igbo and Kemetan notions of self, identity, becoming, and destiny (chi na eke, khepert) to center the protagonists’ self-determination considering their oppressive environments. The protagonists, Ijeoma and Binti respectively, contend with who they are and are becoming alongside their neocolonial family and community expectations of its daughters. As a result, they are driven into isolation to determine self on their own terms. This paper argues that while they moved in solitude, this process is ultimately beneficial to their families and communities, offering decolonized methods of healing, and of moving towards one’s purpose. Drawing from pre-colonial Igbo cultures and traditions—as the authors are Igbo—the paper positions Under the Udala Trees and Binti as pieces that offer contemporary solutions to the global erasure or suppression of African and Black cultures and ways of existing.
How Null Vector Performs in a Rational Bézier Curve with Mass Points
Authors: Garnier Lionel , Bécar Jean-Paul , Fuchs Laurent
Published: January 2025

This article points out the kinematics in tracing a Bézier curve defined by control mass points. A mass point is a point with a non-positive weight, a non-negative weight or a vector with a null weight. For any Bézier curve, the speeds at endpoints can be modified at the same time for both endpoints. The use of a homographic parameter change allows us to choose any arc of the curve without changing the degree but not offer to change the speeds at both endpoints independently. The homographic parameter change performs weighted points with any non-null real number as weight and also vectors. The curve is thus called a rational Bézier curve with control mass points. In order to build independent stationary points at endpoints, a quadratic parameter change is required. Adding null vectors in the Bézier representation is also an answer. Null vectors are obtained when converting any power function in a rational Bézier curve and their inverse. The authors propose a new approach on placing null vectors in the representation of the rational Bézier curve. It allows us to break free from projective geometry where there is no null vector. The paper ends with some examples of known curves and some perspectives.
Advancing Sustainable HIV Services Through Integration in Primary Healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Perspective on Practical Recommendations
Authors: Dzinamarira Tafadzwa , Rwibasira Gallican , Mwila Loveday , Moyo Enos , Mangoya Derek , Moyo Perseverance , Oladele Edward , Akinjeji Adewale , Chimene Munashe , Muvunyi Claude Mambo
Published: January 2025

Sub-Saharan Africa continues to bear a disproportionate burden of the global HIV epidemic. Integrating HIV services into primary healthcare is a crucial strategy to accelerate progress towards ending the epidemic. However, several challenges hinder effective integration, including underfunding, human resource shortages, infrastructure limitations, weak health systems, and sociocultural factors. With this perspective, we discuss strategies to address these challenges. A comprehensive, multi-faceted approach is necessary to overcome these barriers. Investing in human resources, improving infrastructure, and strengthening health information systems are essential for strengthening the health system. Implementing patient-centered care, integrated service delivery models, and community engagement can optimize service delivery. Utilizing digital health tools, such as mobile health applications and electronic health records, can enhance service delivery and data management. Mobilizing for an increase in domestic resources, aligning donor funding, and using cost-effective approaches are crucial for effective financing. Finally, robust monitoring and evaluation systems are necessary to track progress, identify challenges, and inform decision-making. With these strategies, among many others, sub-Saharan African countries can significantly improve the integration of HIV services into primary healthcare, leading to better health outcomes for people living with HIV and more sustainable HIV programs.
The New Italian Guidelines for Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART): Ethical and Medico-Legal Issues
Authors: Raimondi Costanza , Casella Claudia , Capasso Emanuele , Campanozzi Laura L. , Mercuri Giulia , Oliva Antonio , Spagnolo Antonio G. , Refolo Pietro
Published: January 2025

Background: On 20 March 2024, the Italian Minister of Health, in collaboration with the Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità) and the National Health Council (Consiglio Superiore di Sanità), issued updated guidelines for assisted reproduction technologies (ART). They introduced two key changes: (1) permitting post-mortem embryo transfers, allowing a woman to proceed with the procedure after her male partner’s death, and (2) permitting embryo transfer even if the male partner is alive but the relationship has ended. Objectives: This study explores the ethical and medico-legal challenges posed by the updated Italian ART Guidelines, with a specific focus on the complexities of informed consent and the ethical dilemmas introduced by these provisions. Methods: This study employs a comprehensive review of legislation, case law, and a comparative analysis of national and international norms. Primary and secondary sources include laws, regulations, court decisions, and key ethical and medico-legal perspectives. Results were organized into two thematic areas: the medico-legal dimension, focusing on informed consent, and the ethical dimension, addressing post-mortem and ex-partner embryo transfers. Results: The new guidelines exacerbate the already intricate ART landscape in Italy. Post-mortem and post-relationship embryo transfers raise significant ethical concerns and amplify legal uncertainties. Conclusions: These updates highlight the pressing need for legislative reform to address unresolved ethical and legal issues in ART.
Health Resort Treatment Mitigates Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Long COVID Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Onik Grzegorz , Knapik Katarzyna , Górka Dariusz , Sieroń Karolina
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Among the neuropsychiatric symptoms of long COVID, the following may be listed: sleep disturbances, headaches, anxiety, depression, dizziness, numbness, memory loss, and concentration difficulties. Various therapies have been implemented to mitigate these symptoms; however, health resort treatments that utilize a wide range of modalities stimulating multidirectional biological reactions may also be effective. The aim of this study was to assess the severity of neuropsychiatric symptoms in long COVID patients who qualified for health resort treatment, evaluate the effectiveness of health resort treatment in this group of patients, and evaluate the effect of balneological factors in the treatment course. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the medical records of 120 people with long COVID (69 women and 51 men) aged 42–79 who underwent health resort treatment in 2021 was performed. People were eligible for treatment at a lowland health resort based on a valid referral from a doctor. The treatment included balneological therapies, physical medicine modalities, exercise programs, health education, and psychological support. Patients assessed the severity of persistent neuropsychiatric symptoms on a 0–10 point scale before and after treatment. Results: After the treatment, the greatest improvement was noted in sleep disorders (2.47 ± 2.23 points vs. 0.86 ± 1.25 points, p < 0.00001) and dizziness (1.39 ± 1.94 points vs. 0.34 ± 0.76 points, p < 0.00001). The lowest improvement was observed in memory disorders (2.68 ± 2.5 points vs. 1 ± 1.4 points, p < 0.00001). Conclusions: Patients with long COVID who qualified for health resort treatment reported mild neuropsychiatric symptoms. Health resort treatment mitigates neuropsychiatric symptoms, as it is a complex approach. Treatment that includes balneological factors improves symptoms to a greater extent. This method of treatment should be integrated into the standard treatment for long COVID.