bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Stage and Multi-Parameter Influence Analysis of Deep Foundation Pit Excavation on Surrounding Environment
Authors: Li Dunqing , Liao Feng , Wang Lixin , Lin Jianfu , Wang Junfang
Published: January 2024

As urbanization accelerates, deep excavation projects have become increasingly vital in the construction of high-rise buildings and underground facilities. However, the potential risks to the surrounding environment and the inherent complexities involved necessitate thorough research to ensure the safety of those engineering projects with deep foundation pit excavation and to minimize their impact on adjacent structures. This study introduces a multi-stage and multi-parameter numerical simulation method to scrutinize the construction process of deep foundation pits. This approach not only investigates the influence of excavation activities on nearby buildings and roads but also enhances the fidelity of simulation models by establishing a three-dimensional finite element model integrated with on-site investigated geological information. Therefore, the proposed method can provide a more holistic and accurate analysis of the overall impacts of the pit excavation process. To examine the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method, this study adopts the multi-stage and multi-parameter influence analysis approach for a real practical engineering case to explore the impact of excavation on the foundation pit support structure, nearby buildings, and surrounding roads. The foundation pit support’s maximum displacement was 8.64 mm, well under the 25 mm standard limit. Anchor rod forces were about 10% below the standard limit. Building and road settlements were also minimal, at 10.33 mm and 16.44 mm, respectively, far below their respective limits of 200 mm and 300 mm. This study not only validates the feasibility of design and construction stability of deep foundation pits but also contributes theoretical and practical insights, serving as a valuable reference for future engineering projects of a similar scope.
Seismic Performance Assessment of Composite Frame–High-Strength Steel Plate Wall Core Tube Resilient Structural System
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Cuikun , Chen Caihua , Cui Mingzhe
Published: January 2024

Against the backdrop of China’s continuous promotion of green and low-carbon transformation and the development of construction industrialization, high-strength composite structural systems have significant development prospects. However, their research and application in the field of construction are insufficient. In response to this issue, the study proposes a new high-performance structural system, namely the composite frame–high-strength steel plate wall core tube resilient structural system, which includes a core tube composed of double steel plate concrete composite shear walls and replaceable energy dissipation coupling beams, as well as composite frames. The highest strength grades of the steel plate and concrete used in the composite walls of the core tube are Q550 and C100, respectively. Using a 200 m building as an example, this study designs and establishes models for this high-performance structure and a conventional reinforced concrete frame–core tube structure. Subsequently, the dynamic elastoplastic time history analysis and seismic resilience assessment of structures are conducted under design basis earthquakes (DBEs), maximum considered earthquakes (MCEs), and extremely rare earthquakes (EREs). Research has shown that, compared to conventional structures, the thickness of shear walls of new high-performance structures can be effectively reduced, which helps decrease the self-weight of the structure and improve the available space in buildings. Additionally, high-performance structures exhibit a better performance in controlling the story drift ratio, lower plastic damage and overall stiffness degradation of the structure, and better seismic performance. The seismic resilience of the high-performance structure has been significantly enhanced, especially in terms of minimizing casualties, thereby better ensuring the safety of people’s lives and property.
Water Oxidation over Au-Pd/TiO2 as a Substitute for Iridium-Based Catalysts
Authors: Wahab Khaja , Idriss Hicham
Published: January 2024

Water oxidation is one of the most important reactions needed for a transition to a green economy. The reaction relies on extracting electrons from oxygen anions and is commonly studied using homogenous catalysts based on Ru or Ir metals. Because of Ir scarcity and its relative instability in acidic environments, metals to replace it are sought after. In this study, we have synthesized Au-Pd-based catalysts deposited on TiO2 with different ratios in order to mimic IrO2 valence orbitals (Ir5d) by the hybrid valence orbitals of Au5d and Pd4d and compared their heterogeneous catalytic activity for the evolution of O2 from water in the presence of cerium ammonium nitrate (CAN). Au-Pd-based catalysts were found to be active at a particular nominal atomic ratio. At an atomic ratio of 1 Au to 2 Pd and 1 Au to 3 Pd, the catalysts were active and stable for oxygen production from water. Long-term runs up to 20,000 min still showed the expected stoichiometry between O2 production and CAN consumption (1 to 4). However, catalysts with a reverse ratio were not active. Also, the monometallic catalysts were found to be not active for the reaction. We link the reason for the activity of Au-Pd with this specific ratio to the shape and energy position of their valence band that might be similar to those of IrO2 particles. While the turnover numbers of the Au-Pd-based catalysts were found to be lower than those of IrO2-based catalysts, on the same support in a heterogenous system, there is considerable potential upon further optimization for these two metals to replace IrO2 for a water oxidation reaction.
Hydrocarbon-Rich Bio-Oil Production from Ex Situ Catalytic Microwave Co-Pyrolysis of Peanut Shells and Low-Density Polyethylene over Zn-Modified Hierarchical Zeolite
Authors: Dong Zheng , Yue Yuanchong , Bai Jianmei , Chen Kun , Wang Mei , Bu Quan
Published: January 2024

Peanut shells, a major economic and oil crop in China, boast an abundant availability and remarkably high lignin content compared to other agricultural residues. Previous work indicated that the modified hierarchical zeolite (Zn-ZSM-5/MCM41) was effective in promoting the conversion of intermediate macromolecules during the lignin pyrolysis reaction and enhancing the yield and selectivity of liquid products. Thereby, this study aims to improve the quality of liquid products in the ex situ catalytic microwave co-pyrolysis of peanut shells and LDPE by utilizing Zn-ZSM-5/MCM41. Employing a compound center experimental design, we optimized reaction conditions through response surface analysis. The impact of microwave pyrolysis temperature and the catalyst-to-feedstock ratio on yield distribution and liquid product selectivity was explored. Results indicated a marginal increase in liquid product yield with rising pyrolysis temperatures. Moreover, an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease in liquid product yield was observed with an increase in the catalyst-to-feedstock ratio. Optimal conditions of 450 °C and a catalyst-to-peanut hull ratio of 2.34% yielded the highest bio-oil yield at 34.25%. GC/MS analysis of the bio-oil revealed a peak in hydrocarbon content at 68.36% under conditions of 450 °C and a catalyst-to-feedstock ratio of 13.66%. Additionally, the quadratic model effectively predicted bio-oil yield and the selectivity for major chemical components. This study underscores the potential of Zn-ZSM-5/MCM41 in optimizing liquid product quality during catalytic co-pyrolysis, offering insights into bio-oil production and its chemical composition.
Association between Plasma HLA-DR+ Placental Vesicles and Preeclampsia: A Pilot Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Onori Marianna , Franco Rita , Lucchetti Donatella , Tartaglia Silvio , Buongiorno Silvia , Beneduce Giuliana , Sannino Fabio , Baroni Silvia , Urbani Andrea , Lanzone Antonio , Scambia Giovanni , Di Simone Nicoletta , Tersigni Chiara
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Preeclampsia (PE) usually presents with hypertension and proteinuria, related to poor placentation. Reduced maternal–fetal immunological tolerance is a possible trigger of inadequate placentation. Aberrant antigen expression of HLA-DR has been observed in the syncytiotrophoblast of PE patients. In this study, we analyzed plasma levels of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-DR+ syncytiotrophoblast-derived extracellular vesicles (STEVs) during the three trimesters of pregnancy in relation to PE onset. (2) Methods: Pregnant women underwent venous blood sampling during the three trimesters. STEVs were collected from plasma via ultracentrifugation (120,000 g) and characterized by Western blot, nanotracking analysis and flow cytometry for the expression of Placental Alkaline Phosphatase (PLAP), a placental-derived marker, and HLA-DR. (3) Results: Out of 107 women recruited, 10 developed PE. STEVs were detected in all three trimesters of pregnancy with a zenith in the second trimester. A significant difference was found between the non-PE and PE groups in terms of plasma levels of HLA-DR+ STEVs during all three trimesters of pregnancy. (4) Conclusions: More research is needed to investigate HLA-DR+ as a potential early marker of PE.
Nonsynonymous Mutations in Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder Gene PTCHD1 Disrupt N-Glycosylation and Reduce Protein Stability
Authors: Xie Connie T. Y. , Pastore Stephen F. , Vincent John B. , Frankland Paul W. , Hamel Paul A.
Published: January 2024

PTCHD1 has been implicated in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and/or intellectual disability, where copy-number-variant losses or loss-of-function coding mutations segregate with disease in an X-linked recessive fashion. Missense variants of PTCHD1 have also been reported in patients. However, the significance of these mutations remains undetermined since the activities, subcellular localization, and regulation of the PTCHD1 protein are currently unknown. This paucity of data concerning PTCHD1 prevents the effective evaluation of sequence variants identified during diagnostic screening. Here, we characterize PTCHD1 protein binding partners, extending previously reported interactions with postsynaptic scaffolding protein, SAP102. Six rare missense variants of PTCHD1 were also identified from patients with neurodevelopmental disorders. After modelling these variants on a hypothetical three-dimensional structure of PTCHD1, based on the solved structure of NPC1, PTCHD1 variants harboring these mutations were assessed for protein stability, post-translational processing, and protein trafficking. We show here that the wild-type PTCHD1 post-translational modification includes complex N-glycosylation and that specific mutant proteins disrupt normal N-link glycosylation processing. However, regardless of their processing, these mutants still localized to PSD95-containing dendritic processes and remained competent for complexing SAP102.
Determination of Phenethyl Isothiocyanate, Erucin, Iberverin, and Erucin Nitrile Concentrations in Healthy and Pieris rapae-Infected Broccoli Tissues Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Mesimeri Irene-Dimitra , Revelou Panagiota-Kyriaki , Constantinou-Kokotou Violetta , Kokotou Maroula G.
Published: January 2024

Cruciferous vegetables (Brassicaceae family) are a rich source of phytochemicals, in particular glucosinolates (GLS) and their hydrolysis products, isothiocyanates and nitriles. These phytochemicals may act as chemosensors, attracting insects, such as Pieris rapae, and stimulating oviposition. There is a lack of information on the concentrations of isothiocyanates and nitriles when an insect affects a Brassicaceae plant. In the current study, some GLS hydrolysis products were determined in healthy and Pieris rapae-infected organic cultivated broccoli plants, as well as the infesting insects’ larvae, using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). This study investigated the following phytochemicals: phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), erucin (ER), 3-(methylthio)propyl isothiocyanate (3MIC), and 1-cyano-4-(methylthio)butane (5MITN). All these components were quantified in the aerial and underground parts of the plants and were found in high concentrations in the roots. Among the phytochemicals studied, 5MITN presented the highest concentration in all the broccoli samples but was especially high in the stalks of the infected plants. Moreover, the analysis of a sample of Pieris rapae larvae, fed from the hosted broccoli, revealed the presence of PEITC and ER. These findings indicate that the infestation of broccoli with Pieris rapae may affect the distribution of PEITC, ER, 3MIC, and 5MITN throughout the plant. An extension of our study to conventional cultivated broccoli showed that the roots are indeed rich in GLS hydrolysis products.
Plant Sterols and Stanols for Pediatric Patients with Increased Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Pederiva Cristina , Biasucci Giacomo , Banderali Giuseppe , Capra Maria Elena
Published: January 2024

The atherosclerotic process begins in childhood and progresses throughout adult age. Hypercholesterolemia, especially familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and metabolic dysfunctions linked to weight excess and obesity, are the main atherosclerosis risk factors in pediatric patients and can be detected and treated starting from childhood. Nutritional intervention and a healthy-heart lifestyle are cornerstones and first-line treatments, with which, if necessary, drug therapy should be associated. For several years, functional foods enriched with plant sterols and stanols have been studied in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, mainly as nutritional complements that can reduce LDL cholesterol; however, there is a lack of randomized controlled trials defining their long-term efficacy and safety, especially in pediatric age. This review aims to evaluate what the main published studies on sterols and stanols in pediatric subjects with dyslipidemia have taught us, providing an updated picture of the possible use of these dietary supplements in children and adolescents with dyslipidemia and increased cardiovascular risk. Nowadays, we can state that plant sterols and stanols should be considered as a valuable therapy in pediatric patients with hypercholesterolemia, bearing in mind that nutritional and lifestyle counseling and, when necessary, pharmacologic therapy, are the cornerstones of the treatment in developmental age.
Hospital Factors Associated with the Survival of Infants Born at Periviable Gestation: The USA National Database
Authors: Qattea Ibrahim , Quatei Amani , Farghaly Mohsen A. A. , Abdalla Alshimaa , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Aly Hany
Published: January 2024

Background: Reports on the survival of infants born at periviable gestation (GA of ≤24 weeks and birth weight of <500 gm) vary significantly. We aimed to determine hospital factors associated with their survival and to assess the trend for the timing of postnatal mortality in these periviable infants. Methods: We utilized the de-identified National Inpatient Sample (NIS) dataset of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). National data were analyzed for the years 2010–2018. Hospitals were categorized according to delivery volume, USA regions, and teaching status. Results: We identified 33,998,014 infants born during the study period; 76,231 infants were ≤24 weeks. Survival at birth and first 2 days of life was greatest in urban teaching hospitals in infants <24 weeks and those who completed 24 weeks, respectively. The Northeast region has the lowest survival rate. There was a significant delay in the postnatal day of mortality in periviable infants. Conclusions: Hospital factors are associated with increased survival rates. Improved survival in large teaching hospitals supports the need for the regionalization of care in infants born at the limits of viability. There was a significant delay in the postnatal mortality day.
Impact of Molecular Weight on Anti-Bioadhesion Efficiency of PDMS-Based Coatings
Authors: Bangoura Mama Aïssata , Mimeau David , Balnois Eric , Réhel Karine , Azemar Fabrice , Linossier Isabelle
Published: January 2024

Silicone elastomer coatings have shown successful fouling release ability in recent years. To further enhance the design of silicone coatings, it is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms that contribute to their performance. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between the molecular weight of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and antibioadhesion efficiency. PDMS-based coatings were prepared via a condensation reaction, with a controlled molecular weight ranging from 0.8 to 10 kg·mol−1. To evaluate changes in surface wettability and morphology, contact angle experiments and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were performed. Finally, the antibioadhesion and self-cleaning performance of PDMS coatings was carried out during in situ immersion in Lorient harbor for 12 months. Despite small variations in surface properties depending on the molecular weight, strong differences in the antibioadhesion performance were observed. According to the results, the best antibioadhesion efficiency was obtained for coatings with an Mn between 2 and 4 kg·mol−1 after 12 months. This paper provides for the first time the impact of the molecular weight of PDMS on antibioadhesion efficiency in a real marine environment.
Caffeine and Taurine from Energy Drinks—A Review
Authors: Mihaiescu Tania , Turti Sabina , Souca Marius , Muresan Raluca , Achim Larisa , Prifti Eftimia , Papuc Ionel , Munteanu Camelia , Marza Sorin Marian
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this paper is to review the specialized literature to highlight the effects produced by energy drinks in terms of skin health. To carry out this review, we consulted previous articles with descriptive cross-sectional designs, case series, and individual case reports published between 2000 and 2023. Therefore, while caffeine acute consumption among adults can have beneficial effects, in children, it can cause health problems like overnight breaks, headaches, and dulled cognition since their organs are still developing and their endocrine system is not yet stable. Despite the antioxidant and neuroprotective effects of caffeine from energy drinks, their excessive consumption among adolescents can cause disorders like high systolic blood pressure, agitation, nausea, anxiety, osteoporosis, heart palpitations, poor sleep quality, and stomach ulcers. Among athletes, taurine supplementation has been proven to improve exercise capacity in cold weather conditions. Also, vigilance, attention, and reaction time were all improved by caffeine consumption. Caffeine administration in low doses caused a risk of cardiovascular disease. It was effective in treating migraines in children, but raised systolic blood pressure, and contributed to skin healing in adolescents. On the other side, taurine prevents obesity among children, causes positive effects on oxidative stress and inflammation in adolescents, helps shield the skin from damaging oxidative stress among students, and impacts exercise capacity in athletes. Significant increases in serum levels of uric acid, creatinine, BUN, ALT, and ALP caused by chronic intake of EDs indicated different degrees of injury to the kidneys and liver. Furthermore, the effects on the cardiovascular system could be worse if taurine and caffeine are combined. Caffeine alone does not significantly decrease sleep as much as a taurine/high caffeine ratio. On the other hand, a low ratio does.
Color Analysis of Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A Comparative Study with Cherry Angiomas, Hemangiomas, Basal Cell Carcinomas, and Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Koumaki Dimitra , Manios Georgios , Papadakis Marios , Doxastaki Aikaterini , Zacharopoulos Georgios Vasileiou , Katoulis Alexander , Manios Andreas
Published: January 2024

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is recognized as one of the most malignant skin tumors. Its rarity might explain the limited exploration of digital color studies in this area. The objective of this study was to delineate color alterations in MCCs compared to benign lesions resembling MCC, such as cherry angiomas and hemangiomas, along with other non-melanoma skin cancer lesions like basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), utilizing computer-aided digital color analysis. This was a retrospective study where clinical images of the color of the lesion and adjacent normal skin from 11 patients with primary MCC, 11 patients with cherry angiomas, 12 patients with hemangiomas, and 12 patients with BCC/SCC (totaling 46 patients) were analyzed using the RGB (red, green, and blue) and the CIE Lab color system. The Lab color system aided in estimating the Individual Typology Angle (ITA) change in the skin, and these results are documented in this study. It was demonstrated that the estimation of color components can assist in the differential diagnosis of these types of lesions because there were significant differences in color parameters between MCC and other categories of skin lesions such as hemangiomas, common skin carcinomas, and cherry hemangiomas. Significant differences in values were observed in the blue color of RGB (p = 0.003) and the b* parameter of Lab color (p < 0.0001) of MCC versus cherry angiomas. Similarly, the mean a* value of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) compared to basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.0001). Larger prospective studies are warranted to further validate the clinical application of these findings.
Quadrotor Trajectory Control Based on Energy-Optimal Reference Generator
Authors: Bianchi Domenico , Borri Alessandro , Cappuzzo Federico , Di Gennaro Stefano
Published: January 2024

Inspired by the limited battery life of multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), this research investigated hierarchical real-time control of UAVs with the generation of energy-optimal reference trajectories. The goal was to design a reference generator and controller based on optimal-control theory that would guarantee energy consumption close to optimal with lower computational cost. First, a least-squares-estimation-(LSE) algorithm identified the parameters of the UAV mathematical model. Then, by considering a precise electrical model for the brushless DC motors and rest-to-rest maneuvers, the extraction of clear rules to compute the optimal mission time and generate ’energetic trajectories’ was performed. These rules emerged from analyzing the optimal-control strategy results that minimized the consumption over many simulations. Afterward, a hierarchical controller tracked those desired energetic trajectories identified as sub-optimal. Numerical experiments compared the results regarding trajectory tracking, energy performance index, and battery state of charge (SOC). A co-simulation framework consisting of commercial software tools, Simcenter Amesim for the physical modeling of the UAV, and Matlab-Simulink executed numerical simulations of the implemented controller.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in Landslide Investigation and Monitoring: A Review
Authors: Sun Jianwei , Yuan Guoqin , Song Laiyun , Zhang Hongwen
Published: January 2024

Over the past decade, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have emerged as essential tools for landslide studies, particularly in on-site investigations. This paper reviews UAV applications in landslide studies, with a focus on static geological characteristics, monitoring temporal and spatial dynamics, and responses post-events. We discuss the functions and limitations of various types of UAVs and sensors (RGB cameras, multi-spectral cameras, thermal IR cameras, SAR, LiDAR), outlining their roles and data processing methods in landslide applications. This review focuses on the UAVs’ roles in landslide geology surveys, emphasizing landslide mapping, modeling and characterization. For change monitoring, it provides an overview of the temporal and spatial evolution through UAV-based monitoring, shedding light on dynamic landslide processes. Moreover, this paper underscores UAVs’ crucial role in emergent response scenarios, detailing strategies and automated detection using machine learning algorithms. The discussion on challenges and opportunities highlights the need for ongoing UAV technology advancements, addressing regulatory hurdles, hover time limitations, 3D reconstruction accuracy and potential integration with technologies like UAV swarms.
Research on the Intelligent Planning of Mine Fire Evacuation Routes Based on a Multifactor Coupling Analysis
Authors: Yan Zhenguo , Qin Zhixin , Fan Jingdao , Huang Yuxin , Wang Yanping , Zhang Jinlong , Zhang Longcheng , Cao Yuqi
Published: January 2024

Efficient evacuation route planning during underground coal mine fires is essential to minimize casualties. This study addresses current shortcomings by proposing a real-time method that integrates a multifactor coupling analysis and the optimized multilayer perceptron regressor-shortest path faster algorithm (MSPFA). This research aims to enhance evacuation route planning by overcoming factors such as inadequate consideration, low accuracy, and information lag in existing methods. This study improves the shortest path faster algorithm (SPFA) for dynamic route planning, mitigates the impact of fixed walking speed parameters using the particle swarm algorithm, and selects the optimal model (MLPRegressor) through the Bootstrap algorithm for estimating personnel walking speeds. Validated through smoke-spread experiments, the MSPFA algorithm dynamically adjusts evacuation routes, preventing toxic passages. Visualization via drawing interchange format (DXF) successfully enhances route comprehension. The MSPFA algorithm outperforms the Dijkstra algorithm with a runtime of 78.5 msand a personnel evacuation time of 3344.74 s. This research establishes a theoretical foundation for intelligent evacuation decision making in underground fire disasters. By introducing the MSPFA algorithm, it provides crucial technical support, significantly reducing the risk of casualties during emergencies.
A New Functional Wheat Flour Flatbread (Bazlama) Enriched with High-β-Glucan Hull-Less Barley Flour
Authors: Koksel Hamit , Tekin-Cakmak Zeynep Hazal , Oruc Sena , Kilic Gozde , Ozkan Kubra , Cetiner Buket , Sagdic Osman , Sestili Francesco , Jilal Abderrazek
Published: January 2024

Although the Med-Diet is a healthy diet model, it is affected by current dietary habits. Therefore, new foods with improved nutritional value should be developed to respond to the needs of people following the Med-Diet. This study was focused on developing high-β-glucan flat bread (bazlama) with a relatively lower GI. A bread wheat (cv. Tosunbey) flour was enriched with the flour of a high-β-glucan-content hull-less barley (cv. Chifaa) flour (15, 30, 45 and 60%) to develop a functional bazlama. The nutritional and technological properties of bazlama samples enriched with barley flour were compared with the ones produced from bread wheat. All of the barley flour-enriched bazlama samples had higher yellowness values (b*) than the control (both crumb and crust), which is generally preferred by the consumers. Texture results indicated that bazlama samples became harder with the increase in barley flour supplementation level. The results showed that 3 g of β-glucan can be provided from the barley flour-enriched bazlama samples (at 45 and 60% levels), and this is the limit to carry health claims. The bazlama samples enriched with barley flour were richer in Mg, K, Mn, Fe, and Zn minerals than the control (100% Tosunbey flour). While the glycemic index (GI) of commercial bread wheat and Tosunbey bazlama samples were high (88.60% and 79.20%, respectively), GI values of the bazlama samples enriched with 60% (64.73) and 45% barley flour (68.65) were medium. The lower GI values of barley flour-enriched bazlama samples are probably due to the higher β-glucan contents of the bazlama samples. Additionally, as the barley flour supplementation level of the bazlama samples increased, the phenolics and antioxidant capacities of free and bound extracts increased compared to bread wheat bazlama. The results indicated that hull-less barley (cv. Chifaa) with high β-glucan content may be utilized at relatively higher levels (45 and 60%) to produce bazlama with improved nutritional properties.
How Do Brazilian Consumers Understand Food Groups in the Food-based Dietary Guidelines?
Authors: Monteiro Jordanna Santos , Nakano Eduardo Yoshio , Zandonadi Renata Puppin , Botelho Raquel Braz Assunção , Araújo Wilma Maria Coelho
Published: January 2024

In the Food-based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs), food classification is based on food groups and nutrient sources. Much research has already investigated multiple aspects of consumer understanding of the information described in these documents. However, no study has evaluated consumer understanding of all food items contained in the groups described in the FBDGs. This study aimed to assess Brazilian consumers’ understanding of food classification according to food groups in the concepts of the FBDGs. Therefore, an instrument, Consumer Understanding of Food Groups (UFG), was constructed and validated to assess consumer understanding of food groups. The instrument comprised 44 items approved by experts (agreement > 80%). A total of 894 Brazilians from all regions participated in this study. The results suggest that 48.9% of the participants believe it is easier to classify food according to food groups. The classification of food groups is based on the origin of the food (animal and vegetable). Although consumers easily recognize foods according to their origin, we still identify asymmetries regarding including food items from the animal kingdom and species from the plant kingdom. This exploratory study highlights important information that can contribute to improving the FBDGs. It is essential to consider consumers’ understanding and guide them regarding choices from a technical point of view.
Potential Antidiabetic Activity of Apis mellifera Propolis Extraction Obtained with Ultrasound
Authors: Hernández-Martínez Javier A. , Zepeda-Bastida Armando , Morales-Rodríguez Irma , Fernández-Luqueño Fabián , Campos-Montiel Rafael , Hereira-Pacheco Stephanie E. , Medina-Pérez Gabriela
Published: January 2024

Recent studies have linked phenolic compounds to the inhibition of digestive enzymes. Propolis extract is consumed or applied as a traditional treatment for some diseases. More than 500 chemical compounds have been identified in propolis composition worldwide. This research aimed to determine Mexican propolis extracts’ total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, and digestive enzyme inhibitory activity (ɑ-amylase and ɑ-glucosidase). In vitro assays measured the possible effect on bioactive compounds after digestion. Four samples of propolis from different regions of the state of Oaxaca (Mexico) were tested (Eloxochitlán (PE), Teotitlán (PT), San Pedro (PSP), and San Jerónimo (PSJ)). Ethanol extractions were performed using ultrasound. The extract with the highest phenolic content was PE with 15,362.4 ± 225 mg GAE/100 g. Regarding the flavonoid content, the highest amount was found in PT with 8084.6 ± 19 mg QE/100 g. ABTS•+ and DPPH• radicals were evaluated. The extract with the best inhibition concentration was PE with 33,307.1 ± 567 mg ET/100 g. After simulated digestion, phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity decreased by 96%. In contrast, antidiabetic activity, quantified as inhibition of ɑ-amylase and ɑ-glucosidase, showed a mean decrease in enzyme activity of approximately 50% after the intestinal phase. Therefore, it is concluded that propolis extracts could be a natural alternative for treating diabetes, and it would be necessary to develop a protective mechanism to incorporate them into foods.
Selection of a Probiotic for Its Potential for Developing a Synbiotic Peach and Grape Juice
Authors: Prieto-Santiago Virginia , Aguiló-Aguayo Ingrid , Ortiz-Solà Jordi , Anguera Marina , Abadias Maribel
Published: January 2024

Due to recent interest in the potential of probiotics as health promoters and the impact of health and environmental concerns on eating habits, non-dairy probiotic food products are required. This study aimed to evaluate the viability of different probiotic microorganisms in peach and grape juice (PGJ) with or without the prebiotic inulin and their antimicrobial activity against the foodborne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes and the juice spoilage microorganism Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Firstly, the viability of seven probiotic strains was studied in PGJ with an initial concentration of 107 CFU/mL for 21 days at 4 °C and for 3 days at 37 °C. In parallel, the physicochemical effect, the antimicrobial effect and the lactic acid production in PGJ were evaluated. Secondly, the probiotic with the best viability results was selected to study its antimicrobial effect against L. monocytogenes and S. cerevisiae, as well as ethanol and acetaldehyde production by the latter. L. casei showed the highest viability and grew in both refrigerated and fermentation conditions (1 log), produced the greatest lactic acid (5.12 g/L) and demonstrated in vitro anti-Listeria activity. Although the addition of the prebiotic did not improve the viability, lactic acid production or anti-Listeria activity of the probiotics, under the conditions studied, the prebiotic potential of inulin, support the design of a synbiotic juice. Finally, although none of the probiotic, fermentation products, or postbiotics showed any antimicrobial activity against L. monocytogenes or S. cerevisiae, the addition of L. casei to the PGJ significantly reduced the production of S. cerevisiae metabolite ethanol (29%) and acetaldehyde (50%). L. casei might be a suitable probiotic to deliver a safe and functional PGJ, although further research should be carried out to determine the effect of the probiotic and fermentation on the nutritional profile of PGJ.
Smart Pasta Design: Tailoring Formulations for Technological Excellence with Sprouted Quinoa and Kiwicha Grains
Authors: Paucar-Menacho Luz María , Schmiele Marcio , Vásquez Guzmán Juan Carlos , Rodrigues Sander Moreira , Simpalo-Lopez Wilson Daniel , Castillo-Martínez Williams Esteward , Martínez-Villaluenga Cristina
Published: January 2024

The pursuit of developing healthier pasta products without compromising technological properties involves a strategic approach via the customization of raw material formulations and the integration of grain germination and extrusion processes. This study explores the impact of incorporating sprouts from quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) and kiwicha (Chenopodium pallidicaule Aellen) on the physicochemical properties of pasta by employing a centroid mixture design. The desirability function was utilized to identify the optimal ingredient proportions necessary to achieve specific objectives. The study identified optimal formulations for two pasta variations: pasta with the substitution of sprouted quinoa and cushuro powder (PQC), and pasta with partial substitution of sprouted kiwicha and cushuro powder (PKC). The optimal formulation for PKC was determined as 70% wheat flour (WF), 15% sprouted kiwicha flour (SKF), and 15% cushuro powder (CuP), with a desirability score of 0.68. Similarly, for PQC, the optimal formulation comprised 79% WF, 13% sprouted quinoa flour (SQF), and 8% CuP, with a desirability of 0.63. The optimized pasta formulation exhibited longer cooking times (10 and 8 min), increased weight gain (235% and 244%), and minimal loss of solids (1.4 and 1.2%) for PQC and PKC, respectively. Notably, firmness (2.8 and 2.6 N) and breaking strength values (2 and 2.7 N) for PQC and PKC pasta formulations, respectively, were comparable to those of the control sample (2.7 N and 2.6 N for firmness and fracturability, respectively). This research underscores the potential of tailored formulations and innovative processes to enhance the nutritional profile of pasta while maintaining key technological attributes.
Boundary Value Problem for a Coupled System of Nonlinear Fractional q-Difference Equations with Caputo Fractional Derivatives
Authors: Redhwan Saleh S. , Han Maoan , Almalahi Mohammed A. , Alsulami Mona , Alyami Maryam Ahmed
Published: January 2024

This paper focuses on the analysis of a coupled system governed by a Caputo-fractional derivative with q-integral-coupled boundary conditions. This system is particularly relevant in modeling multi-atomic systems, including scenarios involving adsorbed atoms or clusters on crystalline surfaces, surface–atom scattering, and atomic friction. To investigate this system, we introduce an operator that exhibits fixed points corresponding to the solutions of the problem, effectively transforming the system into an equivalent fixed-point problem. We established the necessary conditions for the existence and uniqueness of solutions using the Leray–Schauder nonlinear alternative and the Banach contraction mapping principle, respectively. Stability results in the Ulam sense for the coupled system are also discussed, along with a sensitivity analysis of the range parameters. To support the validity of their findings, we provide illustrative examples. Overall, the paper offers a thorough examination and analysis of the considered coupled system, making important contributions to the understanding of multi-atomic systems and their mathematical modeling.
Maternal Parenting Practices and Psychosocial Adjustment of Primary School Children
Authors: Cucinella Nicla , Canale Rossella , Albiero Paolo , Baviera Costanza , Buscemi Andrea , Cavarretta Maria Valentina , Gallo Martina , Granata Marika Pia , Volpes Alice , Inguglia Cristiano , Ingoglia Sonia , Iannello Nicolò Maria
Published: January 2024

This study was aimed at evaluating the associations between maternal parenting practices (positive, negative/inconsistent, and punitive), children’s difficulties (such as conduct problems, emotional symptoms, peer problems, and hyperactivity), and prosocial behaviors. Participants were 131 Italian mothers of primary school children; mothers were aged between 26 and 52 years (M = 38.38, SD = 5.46); children (54% girls) were aged between 6 and 10 years (M = 7.15, SD = 0.98). Mothers completed two scales assessing their parenting practices and their children’s psychosocial adjustment. A path analysis was run to test the hypothesized model. The results showed the following: (a) maternal positive parenting was negatively and significantly related to children’s conduct problems and hyperactivity, and positively and significantly to children’s prosocial behavior; (b) maternal negative/inconsistent parenting was positively and significantly related to children’s conduct problems, emotional symptoms, and hyperactivity; (c) maternal punitive parenting was positively and significantly related to children’s conduct problems and emotional symptoms. Moreover, the results showed that, according to the mothers’ perceptions, boys tended to exhibit higher levels of hyperactivity and peer problems and lower levels of prosocial behaviors than girls. Overall, this study highlights the unique role of different maternal parenting practices in the psychosocial adjustment of primary school children.
Health Education Initiatives for People Who Have Experienced Prison: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bonato Patrícia de Paula Queiroz , Ventura Carla Aparecida Arena , Maulide Cane Réka , Craveiro Isabel
Published: January 2024

Due to the selectiveness of criminal systems and the context of social vulnerability, there is a high prevalence of health problems among individuals with a history of incarceration. When there is an insufficient level of health care, prior clinical conditions can worsen, and health education can be a response to this problem. Health education is a process of building health knowledge that is intended to facilitate thematic appropriation by the population that enables people to access, understand, and use health-related information for health improvement. In the context of criminal justice, health education can contribute to the successful transition of people who have experienced prison from their custody to the community setting. This study aimed to identify, synthesize, and critically evaluate peer-reviewed evidence concerning health education initiatives developed during or after incarceration aimed at people released from prison. A narrative review methodology was used to analyze 19 studies about health education interventions for prisoners or people who were arrested. Initiatives were identified in five countries, which showed differences in approaches, with motivational interviewing and group sessions standing out in the studies. All of them were grouped into the following themes: HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, alcohol, opioids and other substances, tuberculosis, and women’s health. We have not performed a quality assessment of the studies included (using checklists such as PRISMA, AMSTAR, or SANRA) as this study is a narrative review and was not intended to be a systematic review or meta-analysis. This review has the potential impact of informing future health education initiatives and policies for individuals transitioning from prison.
Workforce Perspectives of Sustaining the Utilisation of a Harm Reduction Instrument in a Mental Health Residential Setting
Authors: Kroes Simon , McKim Hannah , Petrakis Melissa
Published: January 2024

Purpose: This exploratory study investigated worker experiences of utilising the Before During After (BDA) harm reduction instrument to engage well with service users in a residential mental health service setting. Stakeholder interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of two senior nurses and one senior allied health staff at the study site to explore the impacts of BDA implementation on their work after 3 years of its use. A thematic analysis was conducted, including two-level coding. Five major themes were discussed. Of particular interest, and the focus of this paper, are the themes of effect on service users and effect on staff. The study found improved engagement between staff and service users, reduced stigma and more holistic care that was collaborative. In regard to staff, it was found that staff knowledge and confidence increased in addressing harm reduction issues with consumers and this was sustained over 3 years. Use of the BDA clinical instrument and package was reported to enhance worker engagement, knowledge and confidence in dual diagnosis work with service users.
Cross-Sectional and Descriptive Study on the Challenges and Awareness of Hispanic Parents Regarding Their Adolescents’ Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kim Jihye , Scott Robyn
Published: January 2024

Research has shown that during the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 20% of children and adolescents in the United States experienced mental health issues that became a significant social concern. However, recent studies have demonstrated that the majority of adolescents maintain positive emotions despite the crisis. This cross-sectional and descriptive study delves into the emotional states of adolescents during the pandemic, considering the viewpoints of both adolescents and their parents, with a specific focus on Hispanic adolescents. Survey results revealed that most adolescents reported positive and happy moods. However, a percentage of adolescents experienced worry, significant changes in feelings, and loneliness as a result of the physical and social isolation associated with virtual learning. Unfortunately, most surveyed Hispanic parents did not adequately recognize their adolescents’ mood changes well. This lack of awareness, caused by factors such as an insufficient understanding about the importance of adolescent mental health, cultural reasons, language barriers, low education, unstable jobs, and more, could lead to missed opportunities for timely mental health interventions. This study seeks to provide a comprehensive discussion on the mental health of adolescents, while also advocating for the emotional wellbeing of Hispanic adolescents.
Effects of Different Media and Their Strengths in In Vitro Culture of Three Different Cistus creticus L. Populations and Their Genetic Assessment Using Simple Sequence Repeat Molecular Markers
Authors: Ioannidis Kostas , Koropouli Polyxeni
Published: January 2024

Cistus creticus L. (rockrose), a species of ecological and medicinal significance, constitutes a valuable component of the Mediterranean ecosystem. The present study investigated the effect of the inorganic salt concentration of Murashige and Skoog medium (MS), woody plant medium (WPM), and Driver and Kuniyaki Walnut medium (DKW) at several strengths (1/8×, 1/4×, 1/2×, 1×, and 2×) on the in vitro growth and organogenesis of rockrose. Significant interactions were observed throughout the experiments between pairs of plant origins, medium types, and strengths, and we also examined the extent to which they affected the studied traits was examined. The types of nutrient medium affected all studied traits except shoot and root percentages. The maximum growth percentage (143.49%) was gained using full-strength WPM. The best performance in shoot percentage was obtained using MS (100%) at several strengths along with 1× WPM (100%). The topmost rooting percentage values (98.61%) were obtained using 1× WPM and 1/2× DKW. The highest number of shoots and roots were observed using full-strength MS (9.39) and half-strength WPM (6.49), respectively. The maximum values for shoot and root length were achieved using 1/2× MS (0.78 cm) and 1/8× WPM (1.55 cm), respectively. The origin of the plant material did not influence any studied trait. Moreover, the genetic relations among the populations used in the in vitro culture were assessed using simple sequence repeats (SSR) markers. Twenty-eight alleles were identified across all five STR loci. The different and effective alleles per locus were 5.60 and 4.72, respectively. The average observed and expected heterozygosity was estimated at 0.52 and 0.72, respectively. Shannon’s information index and the inbreeding coefficient (F) were assessed at 1.48 and 0.30, respectively, revealing a narrow genetic base and high genetic similarity among origins, suggesting that they belong to the same population.
Baseline Structural Connectomics Data of Healthy Brain Development Assessed with Multi-Modal Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Mattie David , Fang Zihang , Takahashi Emi , Peña Castillo Lourdes , Levman Jacob
Published: January 2024

Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tractography is a powerful tool for non-invasively studying brain architecture and structural integrity by inferring fiber tracts based on water diffusion profiles. This study provided a thorough set of baseline data of structural connectomics biomarkers for 809 healthy participants between the ages of 1 and 35 years. The data provided can help to identify potential biomarkers that may be helpful in characterizing physiological and anatomical neurodevelopmental changes linked with healthy brain maturation and can be used as a baseline for comparing abnormal and pathological development in future studies. Our results demonstrate statistically significant differences between the sexes, representing a potentially important baseline from which to establish healthy growth trajectories. Biomarkers that correlated with age, potentially representing useful methods for assessing brain development, are also presented. This baseline information may facilitate studies that identify abnormal brain development associated with a variety of pathological conditions as departures from healthy sex-specific age-dependent neural development. Our findings are the result of combining the use of mainstream analytic methods with in-house-developed open-source software to help facilitate reproducible analyses, inclusive of many potential biomarkers that cannot be derived from existing software packages. Assessing relationships between our identified regional tract measurements produced by our technology and participant characteristics/phenotypic data in future analyses has tremendous potential for the study of human neurodevelopment.