bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dielectric Response of Yttria–Zirconia Ordered Solids Within Density-Functional Theory in the Random-Phase Approximation
Authors: Marinopoulos A. G.
Published: December 2024

Despite the fact that yttria-stabilized zirconia has been studied experimentally by optical and electron energy-loss spectroscopies, a first-principles theoretical interpretation of the dielectric response and electronic excitations is still lacking. The present study reports calculations of the complex dielectric function, reflectivity spectrum and electron energy-loss function of two ordered yttria–zirconia compounds: Zr6Y2O15 and Zr3Y4O12. The adopted methodology is based on linear-response theory with a semilocal density functional and the random-phase approximation including local-field effects. Comparisons with existing experimental data show an acceptable agreement showcasing how the different yttria content affects dielectric properties and spectra lineshapes. Strong discrepancies with experimental data are mainly confined to the low-energy part of the optical spectra and concern both the peak positions and the lineshape intensities. The onset of the optical absorption is considerably underestimated from the calculations owing to the well-known deficiency of semilocal density functionals to describe the quasiparticle band gaps. The energy-loss spectra, instead, are reproduced extremely well provided that local-field effects are included in the response functions. These effects are particularly important for the description of the semicore Zr–4p and Y–4p excitations, which dominate for higher energies (>30 eV) in the valence region.
Controlling Poly(3-hexythiophene) Hierarchical Polymer/SWCNT Nanohybrid Shish-Kebab Morphologies in Marginal Solvents
Authors: Schnittker Kevin , Bahrami Zahra , Andrews Joseph
Published: December 2024

In organic optoelectronic devices, the self-assembly behavior of the conjugated polymer poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) into structured aggregates significantly influences the device’s performance, with processing conditions playing a key role. Incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into a P3HT solution can form hierarchical supramolecular structures known as nanohybrid shish-kebabs (NHSKs). These structures alter the morphology of polymer aggregates and provide an alternative pathway for improved charge transport in thin film devices. Herein, we investigated the impact of solvent quality using different combinations of chloroform and anisole during the quasi-isothermal crystallization of P3HT:CNTs. We found that NHSKs of different nanowire lengths can be formed through changing solvent quality while maintaining a constant P3HT:SWCNT ratio and a constant SWCNT concentration. Optical absorbance measurements showed that increasing the amount of the good solvent (chloroform) to 10.19% (v/v) reduced the exciton bandwidth by 36.4% compared to the NHSK solution that only contained ~2.37% (v/v). This observation demonstrates the importance of solvent quality and how this processing parameter directly leads to the enhanced crystallization of supramolecular structures.
Assessing Barriers to Cancer Screening and Early Detection in Older Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Mixed-Methods Approach to Oncology Nursing Practice Implications
Authors: Alodhialah Abdulaziz M. , Almutairi Ashwaq A. , Almutairi Mohammed
Published: December 2024

Background: Access to cancer screening services is crucial for early detection and improved survival rates, yet older adults in Saudi Arabia face significant barriers. Recent data from the Saudi Health Ministry indicate that cancer incidence in this demographic is rising, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced screening efforts. This study explores the factors influencing cancer screening behaviors among older adults in Riyadh, using a mixed-methods approach to identify and address these barriers effectively. Methods: The study integrated quantitative data from 100 participants aged 60 and above who attended King Saud University-affiliated healthcare centers, and qualitative insights from 20 semi-structured interviews. The Barriers to Cancer Screening Scale (BCSS) quantitatively assessed barriers, while the thematic analysis of interview data helped identify key themes. Results: Findings revealed significant barriers, categorized into three primary themes: accessibility challenges, psychological barriers, and social influences. These include logistical difficulties related to transportation and service availability, fears and anxieties regarding cancer diagnoses, and a lack of family support and cultural stigma, all of which impact participants’ willingness to engage in screening. Conclusion: The study underscores the multifaceted barriers faced by older adults in accessing cancer screening in Saudi Arabia. Tailored interventions that address logistical, psychological, and social factors are essential to enhance screening uptake and ensure equitable access to preventive services. These findings contribute to the ongoing discussions on public health strategies and underscore the necessity for community and healthcare provider engagement to improve cancer screening rates in this population.
Genetic Associations of TCF7L2 (rs7903146) and PPARG (rs1801282) with Prediabetes in the Ethnic Kazakh Population
Authors: Dyussupova Azhar , Svyatova Gulnara , Berezina Galina , Dyussupov Altay , Omarkulov Bauyrzhan , Dzharmukhametova Anastassiya , Yurkovskaya Oxana , Akhmetova Venera , Dyussupova Asylzhan
Published: December 2024

Background: This study aims to investigate the genetic contribution of polymorphic variants of the TCF7L2 (rs7903146) and PPARG (rs1801282) genes to the risk of developing prediabetes in individuals of Kazakh ethnicity. Materials and Methods: This was a case-control study involving 200 cases with prediabetes and 200 prediabetes-free controls, aged 16–60 years (n = 400). Real-time polymerase chain reaction on a StepOnePlus instrument (Applied Biosystems, USA), employing the TaqMan method for site-specific amplification and genotyping of the TCF7L2 (rs7903146) and PPARG (rs1801282) genes was used. Results: Patients with prediabetes had a higher birth weight, increased BMI, larger waist and hip circumferences, and a higher waist-to-hip ratio compared to healthy patients in the control group. There was a significant increase in the risk of developing prediabetes for both the rs1801282 polymorphism of the PPARG gene and the rs7903146 polymorphism of the TCF7L2 gene. The risk was 9.8 times higher in carriers of the GG genotype of PPARG (rs1801282) (OR = 9.769, 95% CI: 2.124–44.922, p = 0.003) and 10.7 times higher for carriers of the TT genotype of TCF7L2 (rs7903146) (OR = 10.731, 95% CI: 1.309–87.939, p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for tailored early screening and preventive strategies for prediabetes in the Kazakh population, focusing on individuals with high-risk genotypes. Such efforts could improve targeted interventions and reduce the burden of prediabetes. Future research should adopt a longitudinal design, include diverse ethnic groups, and investigate additional genetic markers to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the genetic underpinnings of prediabetes.
Sex Estimation Through Orbital Measurements: A Machine Learning Approach for Forensic Science
Authors: Triantafyllou George , Botis George G. , Piagkou Maria , Papanastasiou Konstantinos , Tsakotos George , Paschopoulos Ioannis , Matsopoulos George K. , Papadodima Stavroula
Published: December 2024

Background: Sex estimation has been extensively investigated due to its importance for forensic science. Several anatomical structures of the human body have been used for this process. The human skull has important landmarks that can serve as reliable sex estimation predictors. Methods: In this study, orbital measurements from 92 dried skulls, comprising 35 males and 57 females, were utilized to develop a machine-learning-based classifier for sex estimation with potential applications in forensic science. The parameters evaluated included optic foramen height (OFH), optic foramen width (OFW), optic canal height (OCH), optic canal width (OCW), intraorbital distance (IOD), extraorbital distance (EOD), orbit height (OH), and orbit width (OW). Results: A Random Forest classifier was employed to analyze the data, achieving an overall test accuracy of 0.68. The model demonstrated a precision of 0.65, indicating a moderate level of false positives. The recall was 0.70, reflecting that 70% of the positive cases were correctly identified. The F1 score was calculated at 0.675, suggesting a balanced performance between precision and recall. The area under the curve (ROC AUC) score was also 0.72, indicating that the model can distinguish between classes. The most important features in the best subset were OW (0.2429), IOD (0.2059), EOD (0.1927), OFH (0.1798), and OFW (0.1787), highlighting their significant contributions to the model’s predictions. Conclusions: These findings suggest that orbital measurements could potentially serve as reliable predictors for automated sex estimation, contributing to advancements in forensic identification techniques
Fast and Intelligent Proportional–Integral–Derivative (PID) Attitude Control of Quadrotor and Dual-Rotor Coaxial Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) Based on All-True Composite Motion
Authors: Wang Zhen , Yuan Qi , Zhu Yi , Hu Yifan , Chen Heng , Xie Xingbo , Gu Wenbin
Published: December 2024

The construction of a six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) model for the composite motion of the actual mechanical structure (defined as an all-true composite motion model) of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is a prerequisite for achieving stable control of rotorcraft UAVs. Therefore, this paper proposes a construction approach for a nonlinear 6-DOF model of quadrotor and dual-rotor coaxial UAVs based on all-true composite motion. Two types of attitude–altitude control systems for rotorcraft based on a self-optimizing intelligent proportional–integral–derivative (PID) control method are constructed. Three-dimensional geometric models of the two rotorcraft types, incorporating their physical characteristics, are built. The attitude responses to different pulse width modulation (PWM) inputs are tested, thereby verifying the accuracy of the all-true composite model and analyzing the stability of the two types of UAVs. Furthermore, two types of attitude–altitude control inner loop controllers are designed, and the intelligent PID control algorithm is used to optimize the control parameters. Further verification of the robustness of the optimized parameters is carried out, and the designed attitude controllers are verified via experiment using a turntable. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed all-true composite motion model and controller design method can accurately simulate the dynamic characteristics of the two types of UAVs and maintain stable attitude control, thus providing a valuable reference for the accurate attitude control of rotorcraft UAVs based on all-true composite motion.
Generative Bayesian Computation for Maximum Expected Utility
Authors: Polson Nick , Ruggeri Fabrizio , Sokolov Vadim
Published: December 2024

Generative Bayesian Computation (GBC) methods are developed to provide an efficient computational solution for maximum expected utility (MEU). We propose a density-free generative method based on quantiles that naturally calculates expected utility as a marginal of posterior quantiles. Our approach uses a deep quantile neural estimator to directly simulate distributional utilities. Generative methods only assume the ability to simulate from the model and parameters and as such are likelihood-free. A large training dataset is generated from parameters, data and a base distribution. Then, a supervised learning problem is solved as a non-parametric regression of generative utilities on outputs and base distribution. We propose the use of deep quantile neural networks. Our method has a number of computational advantages, primarily being density-free and an efficient estimator of expected utility. A link with the dual theory of expected utility and risk taking is also described. To illustrate our methodology, we solve an optimal portfolio allocation problem with Bayesian learning and power utility (also known as the fractional Kelly criterion). Finally, we conclude with directions for future research.
Mixed Methods in Educational Large-Scale Studies: Integrating Qualitative Perspectives into Secondary Data Analysis
Authors: Costa Jana
Published: December 2024

This article highlights the integration of qualitative perspectives into the traditionally quantitative domain of large-scale studies and explores how mixed methods can overcome the limitations of predefined datasets. Different purposes for integrating qualitative perspectives before, during, and after LSAs are presented. Two examples are used to illustrate the potential and challenges of re-analyzing existing data from a qualitative perspective. Therefore, this article argues that the integration of qualitative perspectives can provide new empirical insights, allowing researchers to explore new patterns, address research gaps, and reframe theoretical foundations. In this way, mixed methods can enhance the scope of LSA data analysis, making it more adaptable to complex educational research questions and enriching the overall research process.
Evaluation of Mathematical and Scientific Competences in Primary Education STEAM Projects in Spain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Berciano Ainhoa , Uskola Araitz , Zamalloa Teresa
Published: December 2024

The aim of this article is to present an overview of the current state of the mathematical and scientific competences in Primary Education in Spain and how their development is assessed in STEAM experiences (with students of 6–12 years of age). To this end, a systematic review based on the PRISMA 2020 protocol was carried out in the Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Dialnet databases, analyzing all articles published from 1993 to 2022 relating to the subject. In total, 53 articles were selected, most published in the last five years and primarily in the Dialnet database. It was found that the majority of the targeted objectives in the experiences were related to STEAM competence, but only 14 evaluated aspects related to mathematical or scientific competence. The mathematical competence was evaluated by the measurement of geometry or number content and their corresponding operations and by how information data (statistics) are graphically represented. In a few cases, the evaluation is also related to computational thinking and orientation skills. In the case of scientific competence, its evaluation was mainly based on the assessment of the understanding of concepts, with those concepts being related to Physics in 80% of the cases. The only evaluated aspect of scientific competence other than concept understanding was hypothesis formulation, which was featured in two articles. These results highlight the need to systematically incorporate assessments that provide a clearer view of mathematical or scientific competence development in implementing STEAM experiences in primary education.
Positive Relational Management and Occupational Well-Being: The Mediating Role of Flourishing and Organizational Citizenship Behaviors
Authors: Peña Marta , Llorente-Alonso Marta , Garcia-Ael Cristina , Topa Gabriela
Published: December 2024

This study examines the relevance of interpersonal relationships in the work environment, focusing specifically on analyzing associations between positive relational management, which refers to the use of relational resources that enable adaptation to the workplace, and key organizational variables such as flourishing, individual-directed organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBis), and life satisfaction. Given the importance of this topic, a structural model is required for the possible relationship between positive relational management and other organizational variables relevant to occupational well-being. As a preliminary step, the Positive Relational Management Scale (PRMS) was analyzed and validated in a sample of 348 Spanish workers. The results revealed that the overall model has a good fit, with reliable and valid construct measures. Moreover, the three-dimensional structure of the model was confirmed, although gender invariance was not satisfied. In conclusion, the results confirm the simple mediation hypothesis, in which flourishing mediates the relationship between positive relational management and life satisfaction. In contrast, multiple mediations between the variables could not be confirmed. This study highlights the importance of interpersonal relationships for employee well-being in the workplace.
A Chinese Short Text Similarity Method Integrating Sentence-Level and Phrase-Level Semantics
Authors: Shen Zhenji , Xiao Zhiyong
Published: December 2024

Short text similarity, as a pivotal research domain within Natural Language Processing (NLP), has been extensively utilized in intelligent search, recommendation systems, and question-answering systems. Most existing short-text similarity models focus on aligning the overall semantic content of an entire sentence, often ignoring the semantic associations between individual phrases in the sentence. It is particular in the Chinese context, as synonyms and near-synonyms can cause serious interference in the computation of text similarity. To overcome these limitations, a novel short text similarity computation method integrating both sentence-level and phrase-level semantics was proposed. By harnessing vector representations of Chinese words/phrases as external knowledge, this approach amalgamates global sentence characteristics with local phrase features to compute short text similarity from diverse perspectives, spanning from the global to the local level. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model outperforms previous methods in the Chinese short text similarity task. Specifically, the model achieves an accuracy of 90.16% in LCQMC, which is 2.23% and 1.46%, respectively, better than ERNIE and Glyce + BERT.
Secure Aggregation-Based Big Data Analysis and Power Prediction Model for Photovoltaic Systems: A Multi-Layered Approach
Authors: Huang Qiwei , Wahaballa Abubaker
Published: December 2024

This study presents a novel approach to enhancing the security and accuracy of photovoltaic (PV) power generation predictions through secure aggregation techniques. The research focuses on key stages of the PV data lifecycle, including data collection, transmission, storage, and analysis. To safeguard against potential attacks and prevent data leakage across these critical processes, Paillier and Brakerski–Gentry–Vaikuntanathan (BGV) homomorphic encryption methods are employed. By integrating the transport layer security (TLS) protocol with edge computing during data transmission, this study not only bolsters data security but also minimizes latency and mitigates threats. Robust strategies for key management, access control, and auditing are implemented to ensure monitored and restricted access, further enhancing system security. In the analysis phase, advanced models such as Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks and Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (CEEMDAN) are utilized for precise time-series predictions of PV power output. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of these methods in managing large-scale PV datasets while maintaining high prediction accuracy and strong security measures.
Experimental Investigation of Wall Confluent Jets on Transparent Large-Space Building Envelopes: Part 1—Application in Heating Greenhouses
Authors: Choonya Gasper , Kabanshi Alan , Moshfegh Bahram
Published: December 2024

Insulating building envelopes is crucial for maintaining indoor thermal comfort, particularly in large-space enclosures like greenhouses having transparent envelopes. Transparent envelopes allow natural light but challenge temperature regulation due to their low thermal mass and high U-values, which enable significant heat transfer between indoor and outdoor environments. This field study aims to experimentally investigate whether warm wall confluent jets (WCJs) can maintain the required indoor climate conditions in a greenhouse exposed to dynamic meteorological conditions in winter. It analyzed the impact of the airflow rate, number of nozzle rows, and room air temperature setpoint on WCJ heating performance on the ceiling, external wall, and room air. Measurements were performed with thermocouples and constant current anemometers, and the response surface methodology evaluated the effect of design variables on WCJ flow, thermal behavior, and the indoor environment. The results show that WCJs provided recommended air velocities and temperatures indoors, with the airflow rate having the strongest effect on flow and thermal behavior, while the number of nozzle rows had a moderate effect. This study developed response surface models related to room air temperature, ceiling surface temperature, external wall temperature, and supply air temperature. Supply temperatures between 27 °C and 40 °C suggest using low-exergy heat sources, like industrial waste heat, to sustain greenhouse operations during winter.
Operation Modeling Within the Framework of Life Test Optimization for Gas Turbine Engine Based on Life Cycle Model
Authors: Kondratyeva Natalya , Valeev Sagit
Published: December 2024

The choice of parameters for the life tests of gas turbine engines is a complex multi-criteria task. In this article, as a tool for solving this task, it is proposed to use simulation modeling of the engine life cycle to select gas turbine engine life test parameters. A three-level system for collecting and processing operational data is considered. It is suggested to combine big data and simulation technologies for engine diagnostics, forecasting, and refining the operation model based on aggregated data on aircraft schedules, flight geography, and weather conditions. Special attention is paid to the choice of a method for modeling the operation of aircraft engines. The authors have developed a number of possible methods for a modeling operation within the framework of the engine life cycle model. The results of a comparative assessment of the proposed methods are presented using the example of choosing the parameters of resource tests of an auxiliary power plant. The analysis of the operation is carried out.
Cooperative Control Strategy for Power Quality Based on Heterogeneous Inverter Parallel System
Authors: Wang Qing , Zhang Hongzhao , Xiao Fan , Zheng Yuting , Guo Qi
Published: December 2024

Multi-functional grid-connected inverters (MFGCIs) have attracted much attention for their auxiliary services to improve power quality in microgrids and new energy generation systems. However, power quality enhancement based on MFGCIs often only considers a single control method. The regulation potential of multiple control-type inverters is not fully utilized. To suppress harmonic and support voltage, a cooperative control strategy based on the parallel system of a grid-following (GFL) inverter and a grid-forming (GFM) inverter is proposed. The topology of the MFGCIs is introduced and a mathematics model is deduced. Secondly, a specific-order harmonic compensation method is proposed for the harmonic suppression at the point of common coupling (PCC). The harmonic current is realized to be shared according to the inverter capacity. The reactive power output of the heterogeneous inverters is coordinated by calculating the reactive power compensation and reactive power allocation so that the PCC voltage always stays near the rated voltage. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is verified by simulation and experiment.
Electrical Home Fire Injuries Analysis
Authors: Taylor Mark John , Fielding John , O’Boyle John
Published: December 2024

Domestic electrical fires can occur for a variety of reasons, including faulty wiring and plugs, overloaded circuits, and malfunctioning electrical appliances. In this article, the circumstances of domestic electrical fire injuries between 2011 and 2022 in the county of Merseyside in Northwestern England were examined in order to inform fire prevention activities. Householder carelessness appeared to be less of a factor in electrical fire injury compared to other types of fire injury such as cooking or smoking fire injury. Faulty electricity supplies were the main cause of electrical fire injuries. Male residents were slightly more likely to sustain injury in an electrical fire in comparison to females (1.25 to 1). Those aged 75+ appeared to be more at risk of electrical fire injuries compared to other age groups.
In Vivo and In Vitro Studies Assessing the Safety of Monosodium Glutamate
Authors: Merinas-Amo Tania , Merinas-Amo Rocío , Alonso-Moraga Ángeles , Font Rafael , Del Río Celestino Mercedes
Published: December 2024

The controversial results of research on monosodium glutamate demand a new data corpus for the overall safety evaluation. Both animal and cellular model systems have been used to add a multilevel scope on its biological effects. The Drosophila melanogaster animal model has been used to test a wide range of concentrations for safety purposes: toxicity, genotoxicity, longevity and health span. Medium concentrations corresponding to the human acceptable daily intake (ADI) (0.06 mg/mL) were not toxic nor genotoxic for Drosophila and safe for the lifespan parameters. Once safety was determined, the possible nutraceutical effects of monosodium glutamate was monitored in terms of antitoxicity, antigenotoxicity assays and health span. The results for protective activity against hydrogen peroxide were positive in terms of the medium concentration, antitoxic and antigenotoxic in terms of inhibiting the genotoxicity induced by the oxidative toxin up to 43.7% and increasing the health span expectancy by 32% in terms of days. Monosodium glutamate has been demonstrated to be cytotoxic against the model tumour cell line HL-60, not only in a necrotic way but through internucleosomal DNA fragmentation antitumour activity. The significant LINE1 DNA sequence methylation of HL-60 tumour cells induced by monosodium glutamate is a molecular marker for chemoprevention. Conclusions: the slight or non-significant positive nutraceutical and chemo preventive potential showed by monosodium glutamate at its ADI concentration can be considered as a safe dose for a moderate consumption.
Impact of Cooking on Starch Digestibility in Foxtail Millets
Authors: Cheng Xiaojiao , Wang Yujue , Li Simeng , Huang Shiqing , Wang Shujun
Published: December 2024

While the digestibility of millet starch has been studied considerably, the effects of cooking on starch digestibility in millet remain insufficiently understood. This study investigated the effects of cooking on in vitro enzymatic starch digestion in eight cooked millet flour cultivars by seeking its correlations with the changes in composition (moisture, total starch, protein, lipids, total dietary fiber, and phenolics), structure, and physicochemical properties. Compared to raw flours, cooked flours had a similar content of total starch and protein, a lower content of moisture, lipids, and total phenolic content, and a higher content of total dietary fiber. Cooking disrupted starch granules and crystalline structures in all eight millets, promoting the formation of starch–lipid complexes and reducing the paste viscosity (except for CS07). The in vitro starch digestion of eight millet flours were lower than that of rice flour. Correlation analysis results revealed that in vitro starch digestibility in cooked millet flours was related to the amounts of starch–lipid complexes and the total dietary fiber content. These findings demonstrated that interactions between starch and other components during cooking are the key determinants for the digestion of starch in cooked foods.
Improvement of Undaria pinnatifida Sugar-Free Gummy Jellies’ Properties by Phycocyanin Under Ultraviolet (UV) Irradiation
Authors: Bai Ying , Sun Yihan , Qiu Chenglei , Xiang Wenxin , Liu Yu , Wang Yujiao , Qi Hang
Published: December 2024

In this study, Undaria pinnatifida (UP) was used as the primary research material, and sugar-free gummy jelly was prepared using ultraviolet (UV) irradiation with phycocyanin. The properties were measured using a texture analyzer, color difference analyzer, low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) analyzer, and sensory evaluation. Additionally, the stability during accelerated storage was examined. The results showed that UV irradiation-assisted phycocyanin significantly increased the hardness of the sugar-free gummy jelly, from 268.4 ± 11.0 g to 477.9 ± 5.2 g, and enhanced its chewiness, from 247.4 ± 12.2 to 415.1 ± 3.1. Additionally, the jelly exhibited stronger water binding ability, with the proportion of immovable water increasing from 6.17 ± 0.66% to 9.52 ± 0.77%. During accelerated storage, the texture properties, color, water migration, and phycocyanin content of the sugar-free gummy jelly were changed. However, UV irradiation-assisted phycocyanin treatment slowed down the changes in the texture, color, and phycocyanin content of the sugar-free gummy jelly, which indicated that the product had good stability during storage. These results enhance the application of UP in sugar-free gummy jellies.
Gels in Heterogeneous Photocatalysis: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Amalia Fitri Rizki , Wang Lei , Bielan Zuzanna , Markowska-Szczupak Agata , Wei Zhishun , Kowalska Ewa
Published: December 2024

Photocatalysis has attracted more and more attention as a possible solution to environmental, water, and energy crises. Although some photocatalytic materials have already proven to perform well, there are still some problems that should be solved for the broad commercialization of photocatalysis-based technologies. Among them, cheap and easy recycling, as well as stability issues, should be addressed. Accordingly, the application of gels, either as a photocatalytic material or as its support, might be a good solution. In this review, various propositions of gel-based photocatalysts have been presented and discussed. Moreover, an easy nanoarchitecture design of gel-based structures enables fundamental studies, e.g., on mechanism clarifications. It might be concluded that gels with their unique properties, i.e., low density, high specific surface area, great porosity, and low-cost preparation, are highly prospective for solar-energy-based reactions, water treatment, photodynamic cancer therapies, and fundamental research.
A Flexible Yet Robust 3D-Hybrid Gel Solid-State Electrolyte Based on Metal–Organic Frameworks for Rechargeable Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Liu Ruliang , Xue Jiaqi , Xie Lijun , Chen Huirong , Deng Zhaoxia , Yin Wei
Published: December 2024

Compared to traditional liquid electrolytes, solid electrolytes have received widespread attention due to their higher safety. In this work, a vinyl functionalized metal–organic framework porous material (MIL-101(Cr)-NH-Met, noted as MCN-M) is synthesized by postsynthetic modification. A novel three-dimensional hybrid gel composite solid electrolyte (GCSE-P/MCN-M) is successfully prepared via in situ gel reaction of a mixture containing multifunctional hybrid crosslinker (MCN-M), lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI), ethylene carbonate (EC), diethylene glycol monomethyl ether methacrylate (EGM) and polyethylene (vinylidene fluoridee) (PVDF). Benefiting from the excellent mechanical properties, rich pore structure, and numerous unsaturated metal sites of GCSE-P/MCN-M, our GCSE-P/MCN-M exhibits excellent mechanical modulus (953 MPa), good ionic conductivity (9.3 × 10−4 S cm−1) and wide electrochemical window (4.8 V). In addition, Li/LiFePO4 batteries based on GCSE-P/MCN-M have also demonstrated excellent cycling performance (a high-capacity retention of 87% after 200 cycles at 0.5 C). This work provides a promising approach for developing gel solid-state electrolytes with high ion conduction and excellent safety performance.
Loneliness and Social Isolation of Older Adults and Quality of Dyadic Relationships with Migrant Domestic Workers: A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Hung Maria Shuk Yu , Ho Ken Hok Man , Li Michael Man Ho , Choi Edward Kwok Yiu
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Loneliness among older individuals is widespread globally, leading to increasing public health and policy concerns. Migrant domestic workers (MDWs) offer continuous services for older adults worldwide, recompensing for dwindling support from family members. The study objectives were to explain how the quality of dyadic relationships with MDWs is associated with older adults’ loneliness and further explore older adults’ perceived experiences of care by MDWs. Methods: A mixed-methods study was conducted from 2021 to 2023. Convenience and snowball samplings of older adults aged ≥60 living with MDWs were recruited by elderly community centers in Hong Kong for a survey, and purposive sampling of in-depth interviews followed. The survey comprised several well-validated scales assessing loneliness, perceived social networks, and the quality of dyadic relationships. Face-to-face in-depth interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed for preliminary content analysis. A total of 288 older adults participated in the first phase of the survey interviews. Among them, 19 joined the in-depth interviews in the second phase. Results: There is a high prevalence of loneliness among older adults being cared for by MDWs in Hong Kong. In addition, the results showed that social loneliness negatively and significantly correlated with perceived dyadic relationship quality and social network. Two major interrelated themes were identified along with eight subthemes: (1) established relational interaction with MDWs and (2) enjoyed functional assistance and support from MDWs. Conclusions: Our study findings illustrated that good dyadic relationships among MDWs and older adults enhance older adults’ social connections and networking, alleviating loneliness and social isolation. Appropriate strategies are suggested to strengthen older adults’ social support and improve the quality of dyadic relationships with MDWs, which may reduce loneliness among older adults.
Leveraging Digitized Heritage Technologies for Smart Fruition: Heritage Understanding and Enhancement Framework
Authors: Rababeh Shaher , Hanaqtah Rahaf , Abu-Khafajah Shatha
Published: December 2024

Digitized heritage is regarded as an emerging field, with existing studies primarily focusing on one case study, technological aspect, or a methodological approach. Thus, there remains a notable gap in the literature regarding the understanding of how these technologies and methodologies can be utilized in smart heritage fruition. Approaches that harness technological advancements to enhance the decision-making process regarding the use of appropriate methodology at various heritage sites remain insufficiently explored. To address this gap, this study conducted a cross-case analysis to survey the use of heritage technologies across selected cases to find underlying trends and correlations related to the scale and methodology used. The findings of this study provide insights into the nexus of technology integration into heritage fruition, highlighting the role of tangible heritage documentation technologies. The present study concludes that smart fruition framework necessitates an ongoing process involving the integration of cultural heritage data, digital documentation, management, enhancement methodologies, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The IoT facilitates the connectivity of physical items to the internet thereby supporting the understanding of heritage knowledge. Such framework operates through a collaboration platform that engages experts, local communities, and tourists to ensure a meaningful and interactive interconnection.
Semantic Enrichment of Architectural Heritage Point Clouds Using Artificial Intelligence: The Palacio de Sástago in Zaragoza, Spain
Authors: Buldo Michele , Agustín-Hernández Luis , Verdoscia Cesare
Published: December 2024

In the current landscape dominated by Artificial Intelligence, the integration of Machine Learning and Deep Learning within the realm of Cultural Heritage, particularly within architectural contexts, is paramount for the efficient processing and interpretation of point clouds. These advanced methods facilitate automated segmentation and classification, significantly improving both the clarity and practical use of data acquired from laser scanning and photogrammetry. The present study investigates the Palacio de Sástago—a prominent Renaissance palace in Zaragoza, Spain—and introduces a cutting-edge modus operandi for the automated recognition of architectural elements within the palace’s inner courtyard. Employing the well-established Random Forest algorithm, implemented in a Python environment, the framework begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the geometric features identified in the LiDAR point cloud. This process employs the Mean Decrease in Impurity metric to evaluate the relevance of each variable. To boost the accuracy and efficiency of the final classifications, the features are refined post-assessment, enhancing both the training phase and the algorithm’s later evaluation. The research’s findings demonstrate significant potential, supporting advancements in CAD systems and HBIM that will enable more precise, automated modelling of architectural elements, thereby enhancing the accuracy of digital reconstructions and improving conservation planning for heritage sites.
Toward to Combination of GIS-HBIM Models for Multiscale Representation and Management of Historic Center
Authors: Pepe Massimiliano , Palumbo Donato , Dewedar Ahmed Kamal Hamed , Spacone Enrico
Published: December 2024

The aim of this work is to identify a suitable methodology capable of integrating multiscale spatial information about an historic center drawn from a Geographic Information System (GIS) and Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM). The method is based on a multiscale development system that can efficiently handle different types of geospatial information by exploring geomatic techniques and software for semantic and parametric modeling. Our case study of the historic center of Popoli (Italy) shows the quality of the proposed model and HGIS-BIM integration for building geometric models rich in semantic and parametric information, taking into account development at different levels of detail.
First Activity of Aspergillus flavus as Entomopathogen Infecting Diaphania indica and Control Efficacy Across Different Developmental Stages
Authors: Askar Mofeed , Chen Chen , Borham Ali , Chen Xijun , Ling Huangui , Su Honghua
Published: December 2024

Diaphania indica (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is one of the most important pests infesting many cucurbitaceous vegetables. During the rearing of insect eggs, we observed a fungal infection in these insect eggs which causes the death of pests. Therefore, this work aimed to isolate and identify this fungus by amplifying the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the rDNA, as well as evaluating the efficiency of this fungus in control. Aspergillus flavus, ‘PP125556’, showcased robust pathogenicity against a range of D. indica pests. The results showed that colonies of ‘PP125556’ cultivated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) exhibited distinctive morphological characteristics, transitioning from pristine white to verdant green. Bioassays demonstrated concentration-dependent mortality rates of D. indica larvae and adults when exposed to varying concentrations of ‘PP125556’ conidia, with the highest concentration (1 × 109 conidia/mL) inducing significant death, with the highest mortality (53.06% for eggs, 70.57% for larvae, and 86.65% for adults). Furthermore, examination under a stereomicroscope revealed conspicuous external symptoms in infected larvae, including reduced mobility, darkened body pigmentation, and the emergence of white hyphae, indicative of mortality. Additionally, infected eggs exhibited inhibited hatching and the emergence of green hyphae, while infected adults displayed mortality and white hyphae colonization, underscoring the potent biocontrol efficacy of A. flavus ‘PP125556’ against D. indica across diverse developmental stages.
Cultivating Health in All Policies Mindsets: An Ongoing Journey to Integrate Health and Housing in Georgia
Authors: Dills James E. , Major Margaret E. , Marcus Michelle J. , Williams Taylor S. , Alderman Leigh
Published: December 2024

This project report explores the use of a Health in All Policies (HiAP) approach by the Georgia Health Policy Center (GHPC) to integrate health perspectives into affordable housing policy and practice in Georgia. It focuses on five interconnected projects from over a decade-long collaboration to illustrate how the GHPC team started with a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) to seed cross-sector partnerships and then sustained them through subsequent collaborations. These projects included comprehensive-, intermediate-, and rapid-scale HIAs, as well as direct collaborations on housing development funding applications and a multidisciplinary research study on public housing renovations. This paper documents how HiAP tactics were applied across these projects to foster sustained collaboration and promote health equity. The insights offered highlight how the HiAP approach cultivated mindset shifts among public health practitioners, housing stakeholders, and policymakers, leading to a broader understanding of health and housing intersections. This synthesis contributes practical guidance for practitioners looking to advance the Vital Conditions for Health and Well-Being through housing policy initiatives.
Gender Differences in Whether and How Perceived Inequality Hampers Self-Rated Health and Mental Health: Evidence from the Chinese General Social Survey and a Randomized Experiment in China
Authors: Chen Jacqueline Chen , Yu Chenling , Zhu Jianhua
Published: December 2024

A substantial body of research has explored the relationship between inequality and health, yet little is known about the gender-specific effects and pathways through which inequality affects health outcomes. This study focuses on China, a country characterized by high income inequality and uneven health distribution across social groups. In Study 1, repeated nationally representative cross-sectional data from the Chinese General Social Survey is utilized (N = 3798 for 2017, N = 1578 for 2015, and N = 2827 for 2008), revealing that perceived inequality negatively affects self-rated health, particularly among women. The high level of perceived economic inequality substantially contributes to the gender health gap in China. Study 2 employs a randomized experiment (N = 3568) to show that perceived inequality affects the health of women and men differently, that is, social mobility framing accounts for the negative effect on women’s mental well-being, whereas reducing status anxiety mainly benefits men’s mental health. To advance research on economic inequality and health, this study investigates gender differences in whether and how perceived inequality affects health.
The Toxic Legacy of Nickel Production and Its Impact on Environmental Health: A Case Study
Authors: Levická Jana , Orliková Monika
Published: December 2024

Nickel is a chemical element that occurs naturally in soil, water, air, plants, and therefore also in food and other living organisms. However, anthropogenic activities related to the production and processing of nickel can cause its increased concentration in the environment, which is a risk to wildlife and thus to human health. Nickel and its compounds are currently considered immunotoxic and carcinogenic agents that cause a number of health problems. The study examines this problem in the context of the environmental paradigm, which emphasizes the importance of political–economic and socio-economic factors that can seriously affect environmental health. The aim of the study is to draw attention to the economic–political implications of not addressing the environmental burden caused by nickel production and landfilling of waste from this production in Slovakia. The uniqueness of the study is that it reflects the negative impacts of nickel on health in a human–legal context that is characteristic of social work. The study proposes a conceptual model, the verification of which requires further research.
AI in Biomedicine—A Forward-Looking Perspective on Health Equity
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Malin Bradley A. , Vishwanatha Jamboor K. , Wu Lang , Hedges Jerris R.
Published: December 2024

As new artificial intelligence (AI) tools are being developed and as AI continues to revolutionize healthcare, its potential to advance health equity is increasingly recognized. The 2024 Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI) Consortium National Conference session titled “Artificial Intelligence: Safely, Ethically, and Responsibly” brought together experts from diverse institutions to explore AI’s role and challenges in advancing health equity. This report summarizes presentations and discussions from the conference focused on AI’s potential and its challenges, particularly algorithmic bias, transparency, and the under-representation of minority groups in AI datasets. Key topics included AI’s predictive and generative capabilities in healthcare, ethical governance, and key national initiatives, like AIM-AHEAD. The session highlighted the critical role of RCMI institutions in fostering diverse AI/machine learning research and in developing culturally competent AI tools. Other discussions included AI’s capacity to improve patient outcomes, especially for underserved communities, and underscored the necessity for robust ethical standards, a diverse AI and scientific workforce, transparency, and inclusive data practices. The engagement of RCMI institutions is critical to ensure practices in AI development and deployment which prioritize health equity, thus paving the way for a more inclusive AI-driven healthcare system.
The Intersection of Personality Dimensions with Stress Relief Strategies in Adolescence: An Experimental Study
Authors: Pronk Jeroen , Eekhout Iris , Preuhs Katharina , van der Mast Olmo , van Zoonen Renate , Detmar Symone B.
Published: December 2024

Stress is becoming more prevalent among adolescents and negatively impacts their health and development. It is, therefore, pivotal to increase our knowledge about potential (personalized) healthy stress relief strategies for adolescents. This study investigated individual personality differences (i.e., behavioral inhibition versus behavioral activation) in adolescents’ preference for, and the effectiveness of, physical or mental exercise to relieve stress. A sample of 208 adolescents (12 to 18 years) were recruited during a science and education student festival in the Netherlands. For ethical reasons, no personally identifiable information could be collected. Surveys were used to assess personality and preferences at baseline and subjective stress at baseline, after stress induction with the Sing-a-Song Stress Test, and after stress relief through physical or mental exercise. The results from multivariate regression analyses indicate that personality did not significantly influence adolescents’ preference for, or benefit from, physical or mental exercise for stress relief. Both types of exercise significantly reduced experienced stress, but the effect was stronger when adolescents performed their activity of choice. The findings suggest that pre- and intervention efforts for adolescents’ stress-related health problems are better directed at offering a range of effective free-choice stress relief activities than on personalized stress-relief methods.