bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of 8- and 4-Bit Quantization on the Accuracy and Silicon Area Footprint of Tiny Neural Networks
Authors: Tumialis Paweł , Skierkowski Marcel , Przychodny Jakub , Obszarski Paweł
Published: December 2024

In the field of embedded and edge devices, efforts have been made to make deep neural network models smaller due to the limited size of the available memory and the low computational efficiency. Typical model footprints are under 100 KB. However, for some applications, models of this size are too large. In low-voltage sensors, signals must be processed, classified or predicted with an order of magnitude smaller memory. Model downsizing can be performed by limiting the number of model parameters or quantizing their weights. These types of operations have a negative impact on the accuracy of the deep network. This study tested the effect of model downscaling techniques on accuracy. The main idea was to reduce neural network models to 3 k parameters or less. Tests were conducted on three different neural network architectures in the context of three separate research problems, modeling real tasks for small networks. The impact of the reduction in the accuracy of the network depends mainly on its initial size. For a network reduced from 40 k parameters, a decrease in accuracy of 16 percentage points was achieved, and for a network with 20 k parameters, a decrease of 8 points was achieved. To obtain the best results, knowledge distillation and quantization-aware training methods were used for training. Thanks to this, the accuracy of the 4-bit networks did not differ significantly from the 8-bit ones and their results were approximately four percentage points worse than those of the full precision networks. For the fully connected network, synthesis to ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) was also performed to demonstrate the reduction in the silicon area occupied by the model. The 4-bit quantization limits the silicon area footprint by 90%.
Review on Development and Research of Underwater Capacitive Power Transfer
Authors: Liu Ying , Li Binghe , Pan Liangyi , Yao Shunyu , Dong Zhutao , Zhang Jiantao , Zhu Chunbo , Cui Shumei
Published: December 2024

Wireless power transfer (WPT) technology applied to underwater environments has the advantages of no electrical contact, high safety, and high applicability. Underwater capacitive power transfer (UCPT) technology shows great potential in the field of underwater wireless power transfer as it has more advantages compared to underwater inductive power transfer (UIPT) technology. This paper begins with the system principles of UCPT and explains the advantages of UCPT technology for underwater applications. It then reviews the coupler and equivalent circuit models currently used for UCPT in various underwater environments, which indicates the direction for the design of underwater couplers in the future. In addition, compensation networks currently applied in UCPT systems are summarized and compared. Furthermore, different application examples of UCPT are introduced, and the key factors constraining UCPT development are pointed out. Research directions for future development of UCPT technology are also investigated.
Characteristics of the Microfracture and Pore Structure of Middle- and High-Rank Coal and Their Implications for CBM Exploration and Development in Northern Guizhou
Authors: Ren Haiying , Guo Zhijun , Xie Honggao , Han Sijie , Zhou Xiaozhi , Zhao Lingyun , Wei Yuanlong , Qiu Wenci
Published: December 2024

The microfracture and pore structure characteristics of coal reservoirs are crucial for coalbed methane (CBM) development. This study examines the evolution of pore and fracture structures at the microscopic level and their fractal characteristics, elucidating their impact on CBM development in the northern Guizhou coal reservoirs. The results indicate that the pores and fractures in the coal reservoirs are relatively well-developed, which facilitates the adsorption of CBM. The density of primary fractures ranges from 5.8 to 14.4 pcs/cm, while the density of secondary fractures ranges from 3.6 to 11.8 pcs/cm. As the metamorphic degree of coal increases, the density of primary fractures initially increases and then decreases, whereas the density of secondary fractures decreases with increasing metamorphic degree. With increasing vitrinite reflectance, the specific surface area and pore volume of the coal samples first decrease and then increase. The fractal dimension ranges from 2.3761 to 2.8361; as the vitrinite reflectance of the coal samples increases, the fractal dimension D1 decreases initially and then increases, while D2 decreases. In the northern Guizhou region, CBM is characterized by an enrichment model of “anticline dominance + fault-hydrogeological dual sealing” along with geological controlling factors of” burial depth controlling gas content and permeability + local fault controlling accumulation”. The research findings provide a theoretical basis for the occurrence and extraction of CBM in northern Guizhou.
Experimental Assessment of Energy-Ecological Parameters of Biogas-Powered Tractor Within Circular Economy
Authors: Kuranc Andrzej , Bawej Sebastian , Słowik Tomasz , Šarkan Branislav , Dudziak Agnieszka , Zając Grzegorz , Paciolla Francesco , Pascuzzi Simone , Łyp-Wrońska Katarzyna
Published: December 2024

One of the solutions contributing to the development of energy independence is the utilization of biogas as an alternative fuel for agricultural tractors. Biogas is recognized as a renewable energy source, and its usage aids in the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale. The reuse of this material/waste exemplifies the concept of a circular economy. Several models of agricultural tractors designed explicitly for biogas utilization or adaptable for its use are available in the market. This study aimed to evaluate the energy-ecological parameters of the MP tractor (T6.180 Methane Power) powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in comparison to its structurally identical counterpart fueled by Diesel (T6.180 Electro Command). Based on the Air–Fuel Ratio (AFR) coefficients for diesel and methane, as well as values of air excess ratios (λ) and the proportions of CO and CO2 emissions determined for various engine load states, the mass emission of selected exhaust components for the examined tractors was estimated. This research highlights that biogas-powered tractors hold the potential to contribute to the sustainable development of agriculture through the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, improvement in farm energy autonomy, and optimal resource utilization, closely aligned with the principles of a circular economy.
Numerical Study of Thermal and Resistance Characteristics in the Vortex-Enhanced Tube
Authors: Li Yiang , Cui Wenzhi , Jiang Xuefeng , Li Longjian , Liu Juanfang
Published: December 2024

Heat transfer enhancement is always pursued in the industry to achieve high-performance and low-energy-consumption heat exchange devices and systems. For decades, various types of heat transfer-enhancing tubes with differing geometries and wall configurations have been developed. In this paper, the heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics of air inside an innovative heat transfer tube with regular wall dimples, namely a vortex-enhanced tube, which has a great application prospect in the gas–gas heat exchanger, are numerically studied with an experimentally validated model. The effects of the depth, axial pitch, and radial rotation angle of the dimple in the tube wall on the convective heat transfer coefficient and friction drag coefficient are comprehensively analyzed. Based on the Performance Evaluation Criteria (PEC) of the tubes, the optimal parameters of the vortex-enhanced tube are obtained. When Re ranges from 10,000 to 40,000, the comprehensive evaluation factor of the vortex-enhanced tube is 1.29 times higher than the smooth tube. Dimple pacing, dimple depth, and dimple helical angle of the optimal tube type are 8 mm, 6 mm, and 83°, respectively.
Uses of the Popov Stability Criterion for Analyzing Global Asymptotic Stability in Power System Dynamic Models
Authors: Ginzburg-Ganz Elinor , Belikov Juri , Katzir Liran , Levron Yoash
Published: December 2024

Stability studies remain a crucial aspect of power systems dynamic analysis, and are typically explored in three main categories: numerical methods, linearization techniques, or direct methods, which utilize Lyapunov energy functions. This paper belongs to the third category, and highlights the usefulness of the Popov stability criterion in the analysis of nonlinear power system models. The main advantage of this criterion is that it provides conditions for global asymptotic stability of an equilibrium point, for a nonlinear dynamic system. We show a general method to apply this stability criterion, and examine its uses in several specific applications and case-studies. The results are demonstrated by analyzing the stability of a system that includes a grid-connected storage device and a renewable energy source.
Spatial Analysis of Picea schrenkiana var. tianschanica: Biomass in the Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang
Authors: Cai Chaoyong , Sun Wei , Bai Tao , Li Quansheng , Cao Shanshan
Published: December 2024

From a global ecological management perspective, as a core tree species in the mountain ecosystem of Xinjiang, the study of the spatial distribution characteristics of Picea schrenkiana var. tianschanica is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance in the Tianshan region. This study focuses on the western section of the Tianshan mountains in Xinjiang and employs the variogram analysis technique to explore the spatial heterogeneity of Picea schrenkiana var. tianschanica biomass. Successively, the study implements ordinary kriging, multivariate linear regression, the random forest algorithm, and an innovative random forest residual kriging method to conduct a spatial interpolation analysis of Picea schrenkiana var. tianschanica biomass in the target area. The results indicate that the biomass of Picea schrenkiana var. tianschanica exhibits moderate spatial autocorrelation, with its distribution pattern being influenced by a combination of topography, climate, and soil conditions. After comparing multiple spatial interpolation methods, it is found that the hybrid model combining regression analysis and kriging, delivers the best performance (R2 = 0.642, RMSE = 40.18, RMSPE = 44.6). This model not only significantly improves the prediction accuracy, but also provides an intuitive and accurate spatial distribution map of Picea schrenkiana var. tianschanica biomass in the western section of the Tianshan mountains which reveals the global ecological importance of Picea schrenkiana var. tianschanica in an intuitive and accurate way, providing valuable scientific evidence and practical guidance for the field of international ecological protection and resource management.
Timing of Drought and Severity of Induced Leaf Desiccation Affect Recovery, Growth and Autumnal Leaf Senescence in Fagus sylvatica L. Saplings
Authors: Vander Mijnsbrugge Kristine , Bollen Mattias , Moreels Stefaan , Notivol Paino Eduardo , Vandekerkhove Kris , De Keersmaeker Luc , Thomaes Arno , Verdonck Sanne , Vanhellemont Margot
Published: December 2024

Increased water limitations due to climate change will pose severe challenges to forest ecosystems in Europe. We investigated the response of potted saplings of Fagus sylvatica L., one of the major European tree species, to a spring and a summer water-withholding period with control–control (C-C), control–drought (C-D), drought–control (D-C) and drought–drought (D-D) treatments. We focused on recovery capacity and phenological and growth traits and questioned the extent to which an earlier drought influenced the response to a second drought in the same growing season. To examine the impact of the level of drought stress, a distinction was made between saplings with less or more than half of their leaves desiccated due to the spring drought (D<50 and D>50). The timing of the drought influenced the immediate post-drought response: saplings severely affected by the spring drought (D>50) resprouted, whereas saplings severely affected by the summer drought (C-D and D<50-D) did not. The spring treatment influenced the onset of visual symptoms in the summer drought, with saplings less affected in the spring drought (D<50-D) developing symptoms three days later than the saplings not subjected to drought in the spring (C-D), whereas severely affected saplings (D>50-D) had not yet display symptoms seventeen days after the first visual symptoms in the spring control saplings (C-D). The timing of autumnal leaf senescence displayed the legacies of the spring treatment. The saplings heavily affected by the spring drought showed a slower decrease in relative chlorophyll content and delayed leaf senescence (D>50-C and D>50-D), which may enable the repair of damaged tissues. The saplings that were less affected by the spring drought (D<50-C) showed earlier autumnal leaf senescence, which is likely an acclimation response. Interestingly, a larger diameter increment in autumn for all of the saplings that experienced the summer drought (C-D, D<50-D and D>50-D) may indicate the recovery of hydraulic capacity by new xylem growth. Our results underline the plasticity of young F. sylvatica saplings in response to (repeated) drought.
Microbial Community, Fatty Acid Composition, and Health Potential of Horse Oil Fermented with Barley Nuruk
Authors: Lee Jeong-Ha , Bae Sung-Eun , Kang Ho-Min , Ha Yu-Jin , Hyun Chang-Gu
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the multifunctional potential of horse oil fermented with barley nuruk, a traditional fermentation starter, focusing on its α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and bioactive applicability. Gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) revealed significant changes in fatty acid composition during fermentation, with oleic acid amide and palmitic acid amide remaining stable and stearic acid amide forming prominently by day 10. Molecular docking demonstrated that the amide structures play a key role in α-glucosidase inhibition through essential hydrogen bonding interactions. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis showed a notable reduction in pathogenic bacteria, such as Salmonella enterica, and a dominance of Lactobacillus acidophilus (95.2%) by day 10. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activity increased progressively with fermentation, with the day 10 extract surpassing the synthetic inhibitor acarbose, highlighting its potential for diabetes management. A human skin primary irritation test confirmed the hypoallergenic nature of both hexane-extracted and fermented horse oil products, ensuring their safety for topical applications. In conclusion, fermented horse oil demonstrates significant α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and proven safety, positioning it as a promising natural resource for therapeutic and functional product development. Further studies are needed for clinical validation and commercialization in diabetes management and related applications.
Fire Carbon Cycle Research Is on the Rise: A Bibliometric Analysis from 1989–2023
Authors: Wang Di , Yang Siquan , Yao Qichao , Zhang Weikang , Liu Zhaogang , Pei Yanyan , Zuo Fenglin
Published: December 2024

Understanding how fires impact the carbon cycle is crucial for developing effective climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies. Although there is a substantial global body of research on fire carbon cycle (FCC), there are relatively few studies offering graphical and quantitative analyses. To assess the trends in FCC research from 1989 to 2023, we performed a bibliometric analysis using the Science Citation Index—Expanded database. A total of 2408 publications were analyzed in this study. The results revealed that from 1989 to 2023, the quantity of publications in the field of FCC studies increased significantly. However, the average number of citations per paper per year first increased rapidly, followed by a slow increase, and then a decline. The top 10 institutions contributing to FCC research were predominantly based in the United States and the United Kingdom, with these countries also leading in the number of publications and citations. Beyond the keywords “fire” and “carbon” used in collecting literature, “climate-change” and “dynamic” were the top two most prominent research focuses. The topic of research has shifted from 1989 to 2023. Climate, vegetation, and emissions were the basic themes, which were important but not well developed, and will be the focus of future research. Along with climate change, research will focus more and more on fire emissions and modeling.
Factors Affecting Growth and Survival of Salmonella in Onion Extracts and Onion Bulbs
Authors: Kiplagat Emmanuel , Ramezani Moazzameh , Malla Subas , Cisneros-Zevallos Luis , Joshi Vijay , Castillo Alejandro
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the survival and growth of Salmonella in onion extracts and bulbs. The inhibition or retardation of Salmonella growth by extracts of red, white, and yellow onions was tested against the onion germplasm and exposure to different light spectra during curing. Separately, survival of Salmonella Newport was tested on red, white, and yellow onion bulbs on the external and internal onion layers with a syringe and needle. Onions exposed to blue, red, and white LED light during curing produced extracts with variable antimicrobial effects (p < 0.05), with those exposed to blue light showing the strongest inhibitory effect on red and white onions only. In survival studies, Salmonella inoculated on the outer scale was reduced by 1.2, >2.7, and >2.4 logs on red, white, and yellow onions, respectively, within 3 days, whereas it grew by 2.4, 2.6, and 2.8 logs inside red, white, and yellow onion bulbs, respectively, over 18 days. In separate trials, the outer layer again did not support the survival of Salmonella Newport. The aw increased significantly from 0.51 to 0.58 in the outer scales and 0.96 to 0.98 for the fourth inner scales. Despite being rich in antimicrobial polyphenols, tissue integrity and water content may still promote Salmonella growth in onions.
Toxic Trace Elements in Meat and Meat Products Across Asia: A Comprehensive Literature Review and Implications for Human Health
Authors: Domingo Jose L.
Published: December 2024

Meat and meat products are vital sources of essential nutrients for human health and development. However, an excessive or inappropriate consumption can pose significant health risks. In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified red meat as “probably carcinogenic to humans” and processed meat as “carcinogenic to humans”, yet the role of environmental contaminants in these products was not addressed. The present review focuses on human exposure to toxic trace elements (arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead) through meat and meat products in Asia, covering scientific literature from 1 January 2000, to 30 August 2024. Based on the citations in PubMed and Scopus databases, Asia is the region with the highest number of reported studies, with China contributing the most data. Concentrations of toxic elements in meat vary significantly depending on animal species, specific tissues consumed, and geographic origin. Correspondingly, estimated daily intakes of toxic elements from meat consumption also differ across studies. While some research highlights negligible carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks, others indicate potential health concerns due to elevated toxic element exposure in specific cases. However, similar to observations with organic pollutants, meat and meat products in Asia are not among the primary dietary sources of exposure to toxic elements for humans.
Fractal Characteristics of Pore Structure of Longmaxi Shales with Different Burial Depths in Southern Sichuan and Its Geological Significance
Authors: Yang Manping , Pan Yanyan , Feng Hongye , Yan Qiang , Lu Yanjun , Wang Wanxin , Qi Yu , Zhu Hongjian
Published: December 2024

Burial depth can significantly impact the pore structure characteristics of shale. The Lower Silurian Longmaxi Shale in the Weiyuan block of the Sichuan Basin is a marine formation that we studied for deep shale gas exploration. We used two groups of Longmaxi samples, outcrop shale and middle-deep shale, to investigate the pore structure fractal features at varying burial depths using a combination of mineralogy, organic geochemistry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and low-temperature gas (CO2, N2) adsorption. The V-S fractal model was used to determine the fractal dimension (Dc) of micropores, and the FHH fractal model was used to determine the fractal dimension (DN) of mesopores. The findings indicate that the pore morphology of organic matter becomes irregular and more broken as the burial depth increases, as does the content and maturity of organic matter. The pore size of organic matter gradually decreases, the SSA (BET, DR) and PV (BJH, DA) of shale pores increase, the pore structure becomes more complex, and the average shale pore size decreases. According to this study, the organic matter content and its maturity show an increasing trend as burial depth increases. Meanwhile, the organic matter’s pore morphology tends to be irregular, and fracture rates rise, which causes the organic matter’s pore size to gradually decrease. In addition, the SSA (comprising the values assessed by BET and DR techniques) and PV (evaluated by BJH and DA methods) of shale pores grew, suggesting that the pore structure became more complex. Correspondingly, the average pore size of the shale decreased. The fractal dimensions of the micropores (DC), mesoporous surface (DN1), and mesoporous structure (DN2) of outcrop shale are 2.6728~2.7245, 2.5612~2.5838, and 2.7911~2.8042, respectively. The mean values are 2.6987, 2.5725, and 2.7977, respectively. The DC, DN1, and DN2 of middle-deep shale are 2.6221~2.7510, 2.6085~2.6390, and 2.8140~2.8357, respectively, and the mean values are 2.7050, 2.6243, and 2.8277, respectively. As the fractal dimension grows, the shale’s pore structure becomes more intricate, and the heterogeneity increases as the buried depth increases. The fractal dimension has a positive association with the pore structure parameters (SSA, PV), TOC, and Ro and a negative association with the mineral component (quartz, feldspar, clay mineral) contents. Minerals like quartz, feldspar, and clay will slow down the expansion of pores, but when SSA and PV increase, the pore heterogeneity will be greater and the pore structure more complex.
Genetic Association Study of Acetylcholinesterase (ACHE) and Butyrylcholinesterase (BCHE) Variants in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Authors: Qu Dong , Schürmann Peter , Rothämel Thomas , Dörk Thilo , Klintschar Michael
Published: December 2024

Background: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death among infants aged between one month and one year. Altered enzyme activities or expression of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) have been observed in SIDS patients that might lead to disturbed autonomic function and, together with other risk factors, might trigger SIDS. To explore the contribution of AChE and BChE from a genomic viewpoint, we sought to investigate the association between SIDS and selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the ACHE and BCHE genes. Methods: In this case-control study, 13 potentially regulatory SNPs were selected from ACHE and BCHE and were genotyped in 201 SIDS cases and 338 controls. The association of SIDS with the 11 successfully genotyped candidate variants was examined using statistical analyses of overall or stratified cases and haplotype analyses. Results: No significant overall associations were observed between SIDS and ACHE and BCHE variants in allele, genotype, and haplotype analyses. In subgroup analyses, eight variants were found to be nominally associated with SIDS, though these associations did not remain statistically significant after correction for multiple comparisons. One haplotype (T-C-G-C-C in rs3495-rs1803274-rs1355538-rs2048493-rs1126680) of BCHE was associated with the female SIDS subgroup (57.3% in controls vs. 46.3% in female SIDS cases, p = 0.010). Conclusions: The selected variants in ACHE and BCHE were not overall associated with SIDS in this study, and thus cannot generally explain the previously reported dysregulation of enzyme activities in SIDS. However, some evidence of association in subgroups and a possible contribution of variants other than those tested here would need to be explored in larger studies.
Genetic and Epigenetic Insights into Pregnancy-Related Complications
Authors: Nayak Nihar R. , Srivastava Akhilesh , Jena Manoj Kumar , Odibo Anthony , Sutkin Gary
Published: December 2024

Placental dysfunction is a leading cause of numerous pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, preterm birth, fetal growth restrictions, placental abruption, and late spontaneous abortion [...]
Metabolomics and WGCNA Analyses Reveal the Underlying Mechanisms of Resistance to Botrytis cinerea in Hazelnut
Authors: Sun Jun , Lu Liyuan , Liu Juanjuan , Cui Yanhong , Liu Hanqi , Zhang Yue , Zheng Zeyang , Yang Weicong
Published: December 2024

Background: Hazelnut (Corylus), a significant woody oil tree species in economic forests, faces production constraints due to biotic stresses, with Hazelnut Husk Brown Rot, caused by the pathogenic necrotrophic fungus Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea), being the most severe. To date, limited information is available regarding the resistance of hazelnuts to B. cinerea. To better understand the mechanisms of resistance to B. cinerea. in hazelnut, we conducted metabolomics and WGCNA analyses of a B. cinerea-resistant Ping’ou hybrid hazelnut variety (Dawei; DW) and a susceptible variety (Qiuxiang; QX). Methods: In this study, metabolomics and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA, weighted correlation network analysis) were applied to elucidate the resistance mechanisms underlying different hazelnut varieties to B. cinerea. Our study focused on the metabolome profiles of DW and QX plants after 72 h of B. cinerea infection. Results: Venn analysis of QX_0 vs. DW_0 and QX_72 vs. DW_72 revealed 120 differential accumulation metabolites (DAMs) that were upregulated. Among these metabolites, the concentrations of flavonoids and phenolic acids in DW were significantly higher than those in QX, respectively, suggesting that the elevated levels of these compounds contribute substantially to the resistance of hazelnut against B. cinerea. 3,4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid and phloretin were significantly more abundant in accumulation in DW than in QX after infection by B. cinerea. Conclusions: This study provides that the elevated levels of these compounds (flavonoids and phenolic acids) contribute substantially to the resistance of hazelnut against B. cinerea. Furthermore, 3,4-hydroxyphenyllactic acid and phloretin were identified as pivotal metabolites in modulating the resistance of hazelnut to B. cinerea. Through WGCNA analyses, we identified four transcription factors (WRKY19, HSFC1, ERF071, and RAP2-1) that are most likely to regulate the synthesis of 3,4-dihydroxyphenyllactic acid and phloretin. This study provides crucial insights for further investigation into the regulatory network of metabolites associated with hazelnut resistance to B. cinerea.
Relation Between COVID-19 Infection and Vaccine and Menstrual Cycle Changes of Portuguese Adolescents in Higher Education
Authors: Anastácio Zélia Caçador , Fernandes Sara Cerejeira , Alves Regina Ferreira , Antão Celeste Meirinho , Carvalho Paula Oliveira , Benevides Ferreira Silvana Margarida , Condessa Maria Isabel Cabrita
Published: December 2024

In a period globally known as long COVID, several post-acute infection sequelae and vaccination effects have been discussed. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the effects of COVID-19 infection and vaccines on the menstrual cycle of adolescents attending higher education and to verify the association between personal health factors and changes in their menstrual cycle after contact with the virus SARS-CoV-2 via infection or via the vaccine. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire for data collection, applied online to Portuguese higher education adolescents aged between 18 and 24. The sample included 401 individuals. The statistical analysis of data was performed using SPSS. Results: More than half of the sample had a COVID-19 infection only once and took two doses of the vaccine. The mRNA Comirnaty 30 µg BioNTech vaccine was administered to 73.1%. The most common menstrual changes were an increase in blood clots, the blood becoming darker, shorter menstrual cycles, scarcer blood flow, and more irregular cycles. Menstrual changes correlated significantly with vaccination but not with infection. Conclusions: This study showed a lower percentage of women affected than other studies carried out closer to the pandemic period, which could mean that the effects are diminishing over time. Thus, adolescents’ menstrual health should be monitored.
Challenges and Lessons from an Acute Telehealth Homeopathy Service During the Pandemic: A Case Series Exploring How Changing Demographics, Efficiency and Outcomes, Point to New Options for Epidemic Readiness
Authors: Gray Alastair C. , Pracjek Parker , Luketic Christine D. , Straiges Denise
Published: December 2024

Background: In 2020, HOHM Foundation launched Homeopathy Help Now (HHN), a network of professional homeopathy telehealth practitioners, administrative volunteers, and independent researchers to work collaboratively in order to respond to the urgent need of care for the ever-growing number of COVID-19 cases in the United States. Methods: in this pragmatic case series study, cases of positively testing or probable COVID-19 (n = 3495) are analyzed using conventional quantitative analysis. The sample includes clinical data collected from clients who attended the clinic between 23 March 2020 and 31 December 2023. Results: The youngest client at the clinic was less than one year old, and the eldest was 92. Many of the participants at this clinical facility were adults (58.1%), with fewer (41.9%) aged 0–17. Many were female (61.7%), while fewer were male (32.4). Most clients found their symptoms improved at final contact (83.6%), and the majority of individual remedy responses improved symptoms (73.7%) over the course of their care. Discussion: Health Services and Public Health research projects are warranted to investigate the ways in which such a necessary stop-gap clinical service as HHN could become implemented in early- and later-phase response to pandemics. HHN’s collaborative, horizontally integrated team structure was essential for the creation of the novel approach needed to address the serious symptoms of COVID-19. Moreover, HHN’s organizational model draws on a mutual aid structure, whereby dynamic, flexible systems are created that empower a community to meet emerging needs, especially when more formal structures are strained, failing or simply unavailable. Further research is urgently needed into the implementation and benefits of innovative, flexible healthcare structures, such as the one used in this study, that can meet the unpredictable and fluctuating public health needs in our changing world.
Effects of a Tailored Home-Based Exercise Program, “KidMove”, on Children with Cystic Fibrosis: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Gagulic Sandra , Bártolo Ana , Marques Alda
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Exercise for children with cystic fibrosis leads to well-known health benefits. However, maintaining regular activity is challenging due to the daily demands of academics, clinical care, and family tasks. Home-based exercise programs offer a more adaptable alternative, fitting into family schedules. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the “KidMove” program, a parent-supervised, tailored, home exercise regimen. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with an intervention group (IG) and a wait-list control group (CG). The “KidMove” program lasted 12 weeks and included 35 exercises targeting endurance, resistance, flexibility, and neuromotor training. The primary outcome, endurance, was measured with the Modified Shuttle Walking Test, while secondary outcomes included body composition, resistance, flexibility, postural control, respiratory function, and health-related quality of life. Data were collected at baseline and post-intervention. A per-protocol analysis was conducted with generalized estimating equations (GEEs). Results: Forty-six children aged 10 ± 4 years (6 to 18 years), mostly male (n = 24; 52.2%), participated. Significant improvements were observed in the Modified Shuttle Walking Test [Wald χ2 = 14.24, p < 0.001], postural control [Wald χ2 = 3.89, p = 0.048], knee flexibility [Wald χ2 = 5.58, p = 0.018], and emotional functioning [Wald χ2 = 9.34, p = 0.002] categories. Conclusions: The “KidMove” program offers a practical, family friendly alternative to center-based exercise by empowering parents to support their children’s physical activity at home, endurance, flexibility, and emotional well-being, while reducing the logistical challenges.
Exploring the Intersection of Hegemonic Masculinity, Sexuality, and Addiction in Men: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Camacho-Ruiz Julio A. , Galvez-Sánchez Carmen M. , Galli Federica , Limiñana-Gras Rosa M.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: In our society, as well as in many other parts of the world, sexuality is shaped through gender-differentiated socialization. This process compels individuals to align their desires, behaviors, emotions, and thoughts with the expectations of normative sexuality, especially hegemonic heterosexuality. The primary objective of this current research was to examine the influence of hegemonic masculinity on the sexuality of men struggling with addiction. Method: This study employed a qualitative approach, specifically using conventional content analysis. To ensure research quality and transparency, the study adhered to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies (COREQ). Fourteen participants from a therapeutic community for addiction treatment in Spain were selected through purposive sampling. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews, supplemented by participant observation. The sample size was determined based on the principle of data saturation. Results: The findings reveal that factors such as gender-differentiated socialization, particularly the values associated with hegemonic masculinity (e.g., the pressure to maintain constant sexual availability and sexual initiative), alongside excessive engagement with prostitution and pornography, are closely linked to substance abuse, the development of addictions, and the emergence of sexual dysfunctions in men. The study also highlights the role of challenges related to oppression rooted in heteronormativity—understood as the imposition of rigid norms governing sexual orientation and behavior—in shaping sexual problems and in the origin and maintenance of addictions in men. Conclusions: It is essential to implement an intervention strategy that promotes egalitarian masculinities within the treatment of men with addiction issues, emphasizing a biopsychosocial approach to sexuality that integrates a gender perspective. Additionally, it is crucial to incorporate gender-sensitive interventions into rehabilitation programs for both men and women, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of each group’s specific needs and fostering the development of healthy, equitable relationships in the context of addiction treatment.
Er:YAG Laser Cleaning of Micromosaics from the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum
Authors: Brand Julia , Vida Carmen , Burgio Lucia
Published: December 2024

Conserving micromosaics from the Gilbert collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum is a challenge due to their complex structure and fragility. Their highly polished decorative surface prevents access to the substrate, yet deterioration can affect both, and manifests as cracking, failure and losses of the substrate and grouting, and as yellowing and accumulation of dirt on the uppermost organic coating. In order to minimise any possible damage to the substrate while cleaning the surface with solvents, laser cleaning using an Er:YAG laser was investigated on various micromosaic objects. Tests were first conducted on a non-displayable bonbonnière, and digital microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed to investigate the effects of the laser on the different materials; the results were then compared to solvent-cleaning only. The combination leading to the most effective cleaning results was found to be laser irradiation at fluences up to 0.71 J·cm−2 on the surface, followed by gentle swabbing with solvent. The surface was successfully cleaned with no changes induced on the materials, and a much lower amount of solvent was used. Following these successful preliminary tests, cleaning was undertaken on other pieces of the collection, and the outcome is presented in this study. The results show a great variability in terms of response of the materials to solvents, emphasising the need to consider each item on a case-by-case basis.
Heritage Impact Assessment Index Within Urban Development Context: The Case of Masjed-e Jame of Isfahan in Iran
Authors: Ashrafi Baharak , Kloos Michael , Reicher Christa
Published: December 2024

Despite various opportunities, urban development projects have been causing significant challenges to the preservation and conservation of historic cultural heritage. In particular, an increasing number of World Heritage (WH) properties are impacted by the direct and indirect effects of development projects, reflecting the existing uprising conflict. Grasping the challenge, Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) has been developed as a proactive assessment tool to identify and predict potential impacts, mitigate the negative impacts on heritage values, and sustain the attributes conveying OUVs in WH assets. The growing demand for urban development and its potential impacts on cultural heritage properties underscores the necessity for the development of a targeted Heritage Impact Assessment methodology for urban development threats. To adequately address multiple impacts, this paper proposes a triangulation of a qualitative matrix for impact identification and a semi-quantitative indicator-based index for impact analysis and evaluation. The methodology is applied to the World Heritage property of Masjed-e Jame of Isfahan in Iran. In drawing upon this example, a systematic and integrated impact assessment procedure is developed to capture a broad category of potential impacts and their significance that is crucial for determining site-specific mitigation strategies and informed decision-making within the context of heritage management and sustainable urban development.
Fostering National Identity Through Sustainable Heritage Conservation: Ushaiger Village as a Model for Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mazzetto Silvia
Published: December 2024

As the Middle East experiences rapid growth due to its oil wealth, there is a pressing need to balance contemporary development with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. This study focuses on Ushaiger Village in Saudi Arabia, an example of traditional Najid architecture that was once abandoned and has now been brought back to life through restoration. This research tracks the restoration steps, looks at how old buildings are being reused today, and assesses the effectiveness of these efforts through a survey of 80 local residents and tourists. The results show significant improvements in preserving the village, with over 100 buildings restored using traditional, environmentally friendly materials like mud and limestone. This restoration has won strong support from the community and has boosted the local economy by increasing tourism and supporting local businesses, aligning well with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. This study illustrates that caring for heritage sites can promote economic and environmental health, providing a model for integrating cultural heritage into national development plans. Ushaiger Village’s story highlights the benefits of thoughtful conservation, showing that it can enhance community life and keep cultural identities alive within the Saudi Vision 2030.
Impact of LED Combinations and Light Intensity on Growth and Yields of Wasabi
Authors: Ruamrungsri Soraya , Utrapen Yanika , Tateing Suriya , Panjama Kanokwan , Inkham Chaiartid
Published: December 2024

This study examines the effects of different LED light spectra and intensities on the growth, photosynthetic performance, and biochemical composition of the ‘Daruma’ cultivar of wasabi (Eutrema japonicum). The primary objective is to enhance the efficiency of indoor cultivation techniques for this economically significant crop. Wasabi seedlings were cultivated under LED lighting with four light intensities (35, 60, 90, and 140 µmol m⁻2 s⁻1) and three spectral combinations: red and white (1:1); red, white, and blue (1:1:1); and white. Growth parameters, including plant height, petiole length, leaf number, and yield metrics such as fresh weight and leaf area, were measured alongside photosynthetic activity and chemical analysis of glucosinolate levels. The results indicate that higher light intensities (particularly 140 µmol m⁻2 s⁻1) greatly enhance overall plant biomass, with red-dominant spectra promoting more significant growth and glucosinolate accumulation, a key secondary metabolite in wasabi. Lower intensities increased chlorophyll content and produced darker green foliage but decreased growth performance. Additionally, the interaction of red and blue light spectra with increased light intensity suggests that specific red light conditions are optimal for maximizing wasabi biomass and biochemical yield. These findings contribute valuable insights for optimizing light regimes for wasabi and similar shade-adapted crops in controlled indoor farming systems, potentially improving yield and quality in plant factories and supporting the future of indoor farming.
Digital Health Interventions for Adolescents with Long-Term Health Conditions in South Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Crowley Talitha , Tokwe Lwandile , Weyers Leonie , Francis Rukshana , Petinger Charné
Published: December 2024

Adolescents with long-term health conditions may benefit from digital health interventions (DHIs) to support self-management. The study aimed to map the current research on DHIs for adolescents with long-term conditions in South Africa, focusing on the types of interventions, targeted chronic conditions, and reported outcomes. The scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. Searches were conducted in electronic databases such as EBSCOHost (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Academic Search Ultimate, and APA PSycArticles), Wiley Online Library, and PubMed for articles published between 2014 and 2024. Studies that (1) involved adolescents with a long-term health condition (aged 15–24) residing in South Africa, (2) reported on the use of digital health technology, and (3) provided empirical evidence were included. Nine studies were included in the analysis, focusing primarily on HIV, depression/anxiety, and diabetes. Most interventions utilized WhatsApp, SMS, or social media to provide peer or healthcare worker support. Process outcomes like acceptability and feasibility dominated, with limited data on effectiveness. DHIs show potential for supporting adolescent health but cover a limited number of long-term health conditions and face barriers to effective implementation. Affordable, context-specific solutions co-designed with adolescents are crucial to enhance engagement and ensure scalability in the South African context. Registration: The protocol was registered on Open Science Framework.
Possibility to Grasp the Older Drivers’ Conditions from the Triennial Nationwide Survey of Japan for Elderly Welfare
Authors: He Mengmeng , Yamanaka Yasuhiro , Takamatsu Kazuya
Published: December 2024

The percentage of older drivers is increasing worldwide. Older adults are driving for their daily lives, including drivers who should not drive, “must-watch drivers”, for health conditions, etc. The “Public Survey of Long-Term Care Prevention and Needs in Spheres of Daily Life (Needs Survey)”, including the “Kihon Checklist (KCL)”, is a triennial nationwide survey conducted by welfare administrations in Japan. The objective of this study was to demonstrate that the Needs Survey can capture situations (e.g., driving avoidance) of older drivers obtained by previous studies, many of which are one-time surveys. As for our methods, we administered a survey with a format of questions used in previous studies combined with KCL to all older adults in Tsurui Village, a rural community in Japan, obtained 393 responses, around half of them, and conducted a logistic regression analysis to estimate whether they were driving or not and a multiple regression analysis for the frequency of driving avoidance. The former analysis showed that KCL could detect must-watch drivers with relatively deteriorated health among not-so-old adults, adding to another one with relatively not-so-bad health among much older adults, and the latter analysis showed that the KCL scores could be an alternative to the self-rating of driving ability used in previous studies. In conclusion, KCL in the Needs Survey is recommended to be a valuable survey for regularly assessing the driving conditions of older drivers nationwide.
Geographic Information System-Based Framework for Sustainable Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Logistics Operations
Authors: Agoo Jonathan , Lanuza Renz Joshua , Lee Jonathan , Rivera Paul Anthony , Velasco Neil Oliver , Guillermo Marielet , Fernando Arvin
Published: December 2024

Dispatching goods is becoming more difficult to manage in the field of logistics due to the high demand for order shipments. This is related to the increasing popularity of the use of e-commerce platforms by consumers, where products are required to be delivered rather than being bought in physical stores. Dispatch management is one of the critical components in a supply chain since it covers the coordination of tasks among stakeholders from the warehouse to the consumer’s doorstep. In this study, the authors propose a framework leveraging geographic information to sustain logistics operations, specifically in terms of managing last-mile delivery and return trip orders. This includes scheduling, communications, and the inventorying of the shipment status of goods. A mobile application built on this framework was integrated with a waypoint order optimization algorithm considering an entire route that traverses all the required pick-up and delivery points. It was pilot tested with an actual dispatch operation of a logistics company, yielding decreases of 92% and 43% in the average turnaround time and carbon footprint per completed service request, respectively, a decrease of 57% in operations cost, and an increase of 72% in profit. With the adoption of this framework, this study aims to contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of logistics operations in a wider geographic range.
Animal Models of Human Disease 2.0
Authors: Lange Sigrun , Inal Jameel M.
Published: December 2024

The use of animal models is crucial for advancing translational research by identifying effective treatment targets and strategies for clinical application in human disease [...]