bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water For Food in Euphrates–Tigris River
Authors: Metwally Abdelmoneim Bahyeldin Mohamed , Yasser Mai M. , Ahmed Merna
Published: May 2024

Water scarcity is an important threat to food security in the Euphrates–Tigris river. Water scarcity is a huge worldwide problem that results from the rapid increase in water demand, which exceeds the amount of available water. The most significant problems currently affecting countries are food insecurity water scarcity. The Euphrates–Tigris river countries suffer from different political issues, such as the Syrian war and internal civil conflicts in Iraq. In addition, this area consists of only three countries: Iraq, Syria, and Turkey, but it affects the entire Middle East. Turkey has established many irrigation projects compared to Iraq, which still suffers from the previous American invasion. Therefore, this study examines the Euphrates–Tigris river (using two countries) to examine the relationship between water scarcity and food security from 1992 to 2020. This study will be conducted using a fixed and random regression approach over 18 years. The results show a negative relationship between water scarcity and food security in the short run, at a 10% significance level, and a long-term positive relationship of 1%. Thus, the use of research and development and the encouragement of investments will help policymakers to develop a nexus between water scarcity and food security.
Confronting Mean Girls Niceness: Conceptualizing Whisper Care to Disrupt the Politics of Niceness in Academia
Authors: Gutierrez Rose Ann E. , Silva Carolyn S. F. , Batz Ruby
Published: May 2024

While the current literature on Niceness in higher education has examined the discourses and practices of Niceness in academic spaces, making it more identifiable, less is known about how minoritized faculty navigate and disrupt the culture of Niceness. The purpose of this article is to offer a resistance-based framework to combat academia’s Niceness culture through the lens of the authors. Using theory in the flesh as theory and methodology, we use collaborative autoethnography to conceptualize Whisper Care to give language and articulate an orientation and philosophy rooted in Kindness. Our findings present a process to confront Niceness while guiding, supporting, and protecting each other in higher education institutions. We conclude with implications for future research and practice for faculty and higher education leaders.
The Effect of Sustainable Development Goals and Subjecting Well-Being on Art Nascent Entrepreneurship: The Moderating Role of Entrepreneurship Education
Authors: Laspita Stavroula , Sitaridis Ioannis , Sarri Katerina
Published: May 2024

This study explores the impact of the perceived well-being of students; the degree to which they perceive that their university enhances, facilitates, and supports six sustainable development goals (SDGs); and entrepreneurship education on nascent entrepreneurship. Moving beyond main effects, our research uses entrepreneurship education as a moderator, offering nuanced insights into nascent entrepreneurship, particularly among art students—an under-researched group. Utilizing data from a large sample within the established research project GUESSS, our findings show a very small statistically significant positive relationship between subjective well-being and nascent entrepreneurship among art students. However, the anticipated impact of university enhancement, facilitation, and support of SDGs on nascent entrepreneurship is not evident for these students. Notably, entrepreneurship education is important for the cultivation of the future generation of art entrepreneurs. These results have important theoretical and practical implications.
Optimizing the Timeliness of Hybrid OFDMA-NOMA Sensor Networks with Stability Constraints
Authors: Wang Wei , Dong Yunquan , Pan Chengsheng
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we analyze the timeliness of a multi-user system in terms of the age of information (AoI) and the corresponding stability region in which the packet rates of users lead to finite queue lengths. Specifically, we consider a hybrid OFDMA-NOMA system where the users are partitioned into several groups. While users in each group share the same resource block using non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA), different groups access the fading channel using orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA). For this system, we consider three decoding schemes at the service terminals: interfering decoding, which treats signals from other users as interference; serial interference cancellation, which removes signals from other users once they have been decoded; and the enhanced SIC strategy, where the receiver attempts to decode for another user if decoding for a previous user fails. We present the average AoI for each of the three decoding schemes in closed form. Under the constraint of the stable region, we find the minimum AoI of each decoding scheme efficiently. The numerical results show that by optionally choosing the decoding scheme and transmission rate, the hybrid OFDMA-NOMA outperforms conventional OFDMA in terms of both system timeliness and stability.
Predicting Bus Travel Time in Cheonan City through Deep Learning Utilizing Digital Tachograph Data
Authors: Mustafa Ghulam , Hwang Youngsup , Cho Seong-Je
Published: May 2024

Urban transportation systems are increasingly burdened by traffic congestion, a consequence of population growth and heightened reliance on private vehicles. This congestion not only disrupts travel efficiency but also undermines productivity and urban resident’s overall well-being. A critical step in addressing this challenge is the accurate prediction of bus travel times, which is essential for mitigating congestion and improving the experience of public transport users. To tackle this issue, this study introduces the Hybrid Temporal Forecasting Network (HTF-NET) model, a framework that integrates machine learning techniques. The model combines an attention mechanism with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) layers, enhancing its predictive capabilities. Further refinement is achieved through a Support Vector Regressor (SVR), enabling the generation of precise bus travel time predictions. To evaluate the performance of the HTF-NET model, comparative analyses are conducted with six deep learning models using real-world digital tachograph (DTG) data obtained from intracity buses in Cheonan City, South Korea. These models includes various architectures, including different configurations of LSTM and GRU, such as bidirectional and stacked architectures. The primary focus of the study is on predicting travel times from the Namchang Village bus stop to the Dongnam-gu Public Health Center, a crucial route in the urban transport network. Various experimental scenarios are explored, incorporating overall test data, and weekday and weekend data, with and without weather information, and considering different route lengths. Comparative evaluations against a baseline ARIMA model underscore the performance of the HTF-NET model. Particularly noteworthy is the significant improvement in prediction accuracy achieved through the incorporation of weather data. Evaluation metrics, including root mean squared error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean squared error (MSE), consistently highlight the superiority of the HTF-NET model, outperforming the baseline ARIMA model by a margin of 63.27% in terms of the RMSE. These findings provide valuable insights for transit agencies and policymakers, facilitating informed decisions regarding the management and optimization of public transportation systems.
Novel Advanced Artificial Neural Network-Based Online Stator and Rotor Resistance Estimator for Vector-Controlled Speed Sensorless Induction Motor Drives
Authors: Kanakabettu Ajithanjaya Kumar Mijar , Irvathoor Rajkiran Ballal , Saralaya Sanath , Jodumutt Sathyendra Bhat , Singh Athokpam Bikramjit
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a new approach for the online estimation of stator and rotor resistance of induction motors for speed sensorless vector-controlled drives, using feed-forward artificial neural networks with advanced adaptive learning rates. For the rotor resistance estimation, a neural network model based on rotor speed and stator currents is developed. The rotor flux linkages acquired from the voltage model are compared with the neural network model. The feed-forward neural network employs an adaptive learning rate as the function of the obtained error during training for quick convergence with minimal estimation error. A two-layered neural network model based on the stator voltage and current equations is developed for the stator resistance estimation. The d-q axes stator currents obtained from the developed model are compared with the acquired d-q axes stator currents. For the fast convergence with minimal estimation error, an adaptive learning rate as the function of error is adopted during training. Furthermore, the neural network estimates the induction motor’s speed. The simulation and experimental results justify that the developed algorithms track variation in the resistances quickly and precisely along with the speed as compared with the conventional constant learning rate algorithm, leading to reliable operation of the drive.
Investigation of the Combustion Properties of Ethylene in Porous Materials Using Numerical Simulations
Authors: Tu Linyu , Ding Siyu , Li Shefeng , Zhang Haitao , Feng Wei
Published: May 2024

As industrial modernization advances rapidly, the need for energy becomes increasingly urgent. This paper aims to enhance the current burner design by optimizing the combustion calorific value, minimizing pollutant emissions, and validating the accuracy of the burner model using experimental data from previous studies. The enhanced porous medium burner model is used to investigate the burner’s combustion and pollutant emission characteristics at various flow rates, equivalence ratios, combustion orifice sizes, and porosity of porous media. In comparison with the previous model, the combustion traits during ethylene combustion and the emission properties of pollutants under various operational circumstances have been enhanced with the enhanced porous medium burner model. The maximum temperature of ethylene combustion in the enhanced model is 174 k higher than that before the improvement, and the CO emissions are reduced by 31.9%. It is believed that the findings will serve as a guide for the practical implementation of porous media combustion devices.
Decision Process for Identifying Appropriate Devices for Power Transfer between Voltage Levels in Distribution Grids
Authors: Dyussembekova Nassipkul , Schütt Reiner , Leiße Ingmar , Ralfs Bente
Published: May 2024

During the energy transition, new types of electrical equipment, especially power electronic devices, are proposed to increase the flexibility of electricity distribution grids. One type is the solid-state transformer (SST), which offers excellent possibilities to improve the voltage quality in electricity distribution grids and integrate hybrid AC/DC grids. This paper compares SST to conventional copper-based power transformers (CPT) with and without an on-load tap changer (OLTC) and with additional downstream converters. For this purpose, a corresponding electricity distribution grid is set up in the power system analysis tool DIgSILENT PowerFactory 2022. A DC generator like a photovoltaic system, a DC load like an electric vehicle fast charging station, and an AC load are connected. Based on load flow simulations, the four power transformers are compared concerning voltage stability during a generator-based and a load-based scenario. The results of load flow simulations show that SSTs are most valuable when additional generators and loads are to be connected to the infrastructure, which would overload the existing grid equipment. The efficiency of using SSTs also depends on the parameters of the electrical grid, especially the lengths of the low-voltage (LV) lines. In addition, a flowchart-based decision process is proposed to support the decision-making process for the appropriate power transformer from an electrical perspective. Beyond these electrical properties, an evaluation matrix lists other relevant criteria like characteristics of the installation site, noise level, expected lifetime, and economic criteria that must be considered.
An Assessment of a Photovoltaic System’s Performance Based on the Measurements of Electric Parameters under Changing External Conditions
Authors: Zdyb Agata , Sobczyński Dariusz
Published: May 2024

This article presents an analysis of the performance of a 14.04 kWp grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) installation consisting of monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon and bifacial glass–glass monocrystalline silicon modules. The photovoltaic system was mounted in Poland, a location characterized by temperate climate conditions. On the basis of the obtained results, the photovoltaic parameters were determined in accordance with the international standard. The annual energy yield of the entire system was 1033 kWh/kWp, and the performance ratio achieved was 83%. The highest average daily final yield was in the range of 4.0–4.5 kWh/kWp for each photovoltaic technology under investigation. In the cold part of the year, the efficiency of the photovoltaic modules was estimated to be 15%, and it was estimated to be 7% during the warm part of the year. Array capture losses accounted for around 0.75 kWh/kWp of energy loss per day, whereas the inverter efficiency was over 95% during the months that are beneficial for energy production.
Diagnostics of Interior PM Machine Rotor Faults Based on EMF Harmonics
Authors: Radwan-Pragłowska Natalia , Wegiel Tomasz
Published: May 2024

This article presents a detailed study on the diagnosis of rotor faults in an Interior Permanent Magnet Machine based on a mathematical model. The authors provided a wide literature review, mentioning the fault diagnosis methods used for Permanent Magnet Machines. The research emphasizes the necessity of precise assumptions regarding winding construction to accurately analyze the additional harmonics appearing in rotor faults caused by electromotive force (EMF), i.e., rotor eccentricity and magnet damage. The article also discusses specific features appearing in the spectrum of air gap permeance functions and the impact of rotor eccentricity and magnet damage on PM flux density distribution and as a consequence on EMF stator windings. The novelty of the presented content is the analysis of induced EMFs for cases of the simultaneous occurrence of rotor eccentricity and PM damage. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for the diagnosis and understanding of internal asymmetries in Interior PM Machines.
Analysis, Design and Effectuation of a Tapped Inductor Current Converter with Fractional Output for Current Source Systems
Authors: Mei Jie , Cheng Ka Wai Eric , Hua Teke
Published: May 2024

This article proposes a new connection method of tapped inductors that works in the current source, which enables the current-mode power converter circuit to have a new topological relationship. Usually, in a switched-inductor circuit, a stable output multiple is obtained through the connection of the inductor and the switching devices. This is because the tapped point on the inductor varies, and the magnetomotive force (mmf) of inductance is adjusted. Thereby, the output current is controlled by the states of switching devices within a certain range. This optimized circuit structure can adjust the output current according to load changes in practical applications without changing the input power supply. The proposed method has been verified for its feasibility through detailed analysis and hardware work. The principal analysis based on the flux linkage and the PSIM simulation confirms that the theoretical circuit can be implemented. Finally, a hardware circuit is built to obtain real and feasible conclusions, and it is verified that the circuit can achieve a stable output and variable current within a specific range. The proposed work presents an alternative power conversion methodology using the active switching of mmf, and it is a stable and simple power conversion technique.
Design of an Axial-Type Magnetic Gear with Auxiliary Flux-Enhancing Structure
Authors: Li Fang , Zhao Hang , Su Xiangdong
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a new axial-type magnetic gear with an auxiliary flux-enhancing structure (AFS-AMG) is proposed. Compared to conventional AMGs, it has a higher torque density and higher permanent magnet (PM) utilization factor. Firstly, the design rules and operating principles of the proposed AFS-AMG are elaborated. Then, the mapping relation between the radial-type magnetic gears (RMGs) and AMGs are elucidated. Compared to its counterparts in RMGs, the AFS-AMG achieves a small size. Then, the geometrical parameters of the AFS-AMG are optimized to obtain better electromagnetic performance, where the torque density per volume and per PM volume is adopted as the evaluation standard. Finally, three different AMG topologies are constructed in finite element analysis (FEA) software for comparison. It is proven that the AFS-AMG has the largest torque density per volume and per PM volume.
Nutrient Contribution and Carbon Sequestration of an Agroforestry System of Coffea canephora Cultivated by Conventional and Organic Management in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Authors: Tinoco-Jaramillo Leider , Vargas-Tierras Yadira , Paredes-Arcos Fernando , Viera William , Suárez-Tapia Alfonso , Vargas-Tierras Tannia , Suárez-Cedillo Sandra , Morales-León Vanessa , Vásquez-Castillo Wilson
Published: May 2024

Agroforestry systems (AFSs) seek synergies that improve productivity, sustainability, and environmental benefits. This is achieved through the supplying of nutrients to the soil, carbon storage, and sequestration. In the Ecuadorian Amazon, Coffea canephora is planted together with leguminous, woody, forest, and secondary forest species, where the continuous incorporation of vegetative residues from shade species represents a substantial addition of nutrients within these systems. This study was carried out from 2018 to 2022 to determine the contribution of nutrients contained in the biomass and C sequestration in agroforestry systems of coffee with conventional (high use of agrochemicals) and organic (without the use of chemicals) management. The study was carried out with a randomized complete block design, using a factorial arrangement (2 × 4 with three replications). This arrangement included two types of systems (agroforestry and monoculture) and four agronomic management practices (high and medium for conventional, and intensive and low organic). The biomass and nutrient content were measured twice a year (every 180 days); in addition, the yield was also recorded. A multivariate and univariate analysis was used for data analysis through R and SAS software. After five years of evaluation, it was determined that the N, K, Ca, and Mg contents were higher in the agroforestry systems than the monocultures. In the AFSs, the highest nutrient content was obtained with the medium conventional and low organic agronomic management, while in the monocultures, it was obtained with the high and medium conventional management. In addition, at a soil depth of 20 cm, the total storage and CO2 were 38.12 and 139.8 t ha−1, respectively. The highest yields were obtained with conventional management in AFSs (1599 kg ha−1) and monoculture (1789.45 kg ha−1). Overall, AFSs showed a significant contribution of nutrients, such as N, K, Ca, and Mg, for coffee cultivation; moreover, yields were similar in the AFS and monoculture with both conventional and organic management, which is positive, since AFSs also contribute environmental benefits.
Effect of Pulsed Electric Fields on the Shelf Stability and Sensory Acceptability of Osmotically Dehydrated Spinach: A Mathematical Modeling Approach
Authors: Dimopoulos George , Katsimichas Alexandros , Balachtsis Konstantinos , Dermesonlouoglou Efimia , Taoukis Petros
Published: May 2024

This study focused on the osmotic dehydration (OD) of ready-to-eat spinach leaves combined with the pulsed electric field (PEF) pre-treatment. Untreated and PEF-treated (0.6 kV/cm, 0–200 pulses) spinach leaves were osmotically dehydrated at room temperature for up to 120 min. The application of PEF (0.6 kV/20 pulses) prior to OD (60% glycerol, 25 °C, 60 min) lowered water activity (aw = 0.891) while achieving satisfactory product acceptability (total sensory hedonic scoring of 8). During the storage of the product (at 4, 8, 12, and 20 °C for up to 30 d), a significant reduction in total microbial count evolution was observed (9.7 logCFU/g for the untreated samples vs. 5.1 logCFU/g for the PEF-OD-treated samples after 13 d of storage at 4 °C). The selection of these PEF and OD treatment conditions enabled the extension of the product shelf life by up to 33 d under chilled storage. Osmotically treated spinach could find application in ready-to-eat salad products with an extended shelf life, which is currently not possible due to the high perishability of the specific plant tissue.
The Time–Temperature Superposition of Polymeric Rubber Gels Treated by Means of the Mode-Coupling Theory
Authors: Mallamace Domenico , Mensitieri Giuseppe , Salzano de Luna Martina , Mallamace Francesco
Published: May 2024

Viscoelastic relaxation measurements on styrene-butadiene rubbers (SBRs) doped with carbon nanotube (CNT) at different concentrations around the sol-gel transition show the time–temperature superposition (TTS). This process is described in terms of the mode coupling theory (MCT) approach to viscoelasticity by considering the frequency behavior of the loss modulus E″(ω) and showing that the corresponding TTS is linked to ω1/2 decay. From the analysis of the obtained data, we observe that the interaction between SBRs and CNT determines different levels of decay according to their concentration. Systems with the lowest CNT concentration are only characterized in the studied T-range by their fragile glass-forming behavior. However, at a specific temperature TL, those with the highest CNT concentration show a crossover towards pure Arrhenius that, according to the MCT, indicates the presence of kinetic glass transition (KGT), where system response functions are characterized by scaling behaviors.
Mapping of Leaf Rust Resistance Loci in Two Kenyan Wheats and Development of Linked Markers
Authors: Singh Davinder , Kankwatsa Peace , Sandhu Karanjeet S. , Bansal Urmil K. , Forrest Kerrie L. , Park Robert F.
Published: May 2024

Leaf rust caused by the pathogen Puccinia triticina (Pt) is a destructive fungal disease of wheat that occurs in almost all wheat-growing areas across the globe. Genetic resistance has proven to be the best solution to mitigate the disease. Wheat breeders are continuously seeking new diversified and durable sources of resistance to use in developing new varieties. We developed recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations from two leaf rust-resistant genotypes (Kenya Kudu and AUS12568) introduced from Kenya to identify and characterize resistance to Pt and to develop markers linked closely to the resistance that was found. Our studies detected four QTL conferring adult plant resistance (APR) to leaf rust. Two of these loci are associated with known genes, Lr46 and Lr68, residing on chromosomes 1B and 7B, respectively. The remaining two, QLrKK_2B and QLrAus12568_5A, contributed by Kenya Kudu and AUS12568 respectively, are putatively new loci for Pt resistance. Both QLrKK_2B and QLrAus12568_5A were found to interact additively with Lr46 in significantly reducing the disease severity at adult plant growth stages in the field. We further developed a suite of six closely linked markers within the QLrAus12568_5A locus and four within the QLrKK_2B region. Among these, markers sunKASP_522 and sunKASP_524, flanking QLrAus12568_5A, and sunKASP_536, distal to QLrKK_2B, were identified as the most closely linked and reliable for marker-assisted selection. The markers were validated on a selection of 64 Australian wheat varieties and found to be polymorphic and robust, allowing for clear allelic discrimination. The identified new loci and linked molecular markers will enable rapid adoption by breeders in developing wheat varieties carrying diversified and durable resistance to leaf rust.
Piping Stabilization of Clay Soil Using Lime
Authors: Aqel Rawan , Attom Mousa , El-Emam Magdi , Yamin Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Construction of earth fill dams offers a cost-effective solution for various purposes. However, their susceptibility to internal soil erosion, known as piping, poses a significant risk of structural failure and resultant loss of life and property. Soil stabilization emerges as a practical technique to fortify these dams against such threats. This study investigated the impact of lime on the internal erosion properties of clay soils, focusing on CH and ML soil types. Specimens of different lime content were prepared and remolded at 95% relative compaction and optimum moisture content. Hole Erosion tests at varying lime concentrations and curing durations were adapted to conduct the investigation. This investigation aims to optimize lime content and curing time for cohesive soil stabilization against internal erosion. Findings revealed that 2% and 5% of quicklime, by dry weight of the soil, effectively stabilized CH and ML soils, respectively, against internal erosion, with a two-day curing period proving optimal. Furthermore, the addition of lime significantly enhanced erosion rate index and critical shear strength in clay soil, underscoring its efficacy in soil stabilization efforts.
Evaluating the Relation of Cave Passage Formation to Stress-Field: Spatio-Temporal Correlation of Speleogenesis with Active Tectonics in Asprorema Cave (Mt. Pinovo, Greece)
Authors: Lazaridis Georgios , Katrivanos Emmanouil , Dora Despoina , Papadopoulou Lambrini , Lazos Ilias , Chatzipetros Alexandros
Published: May 2024

Caves serve as time capsules, preserving significant markers of tectonic activity and offering insights into geological history. Fault geometries and past activations found in caves can be correlated with known deformational events in the broader area, temporally delimiting the speleogenesis. More specifically, cave passage formation is suggested to be affected by the regional stress-field. The Asprorema Cave in Northern Greece is a typical example of a fracture guided cave, with passage geometry influenced by relative sidewall movements, revealing these discontinuities as faults. This study constructs the timeframe and conceptual model of speleogenesis in relation to tectonic events, geomorphological evolution and hydrological zones, and verifies its relation to the stress-field. Active tectonics, mineralogy and cave geomorphology are investigated. Results suggest syntectonic speleogenesis under phreatic and epiphreatic conditions. The absence of corrosion on fault slip surfaces implies recent activations post cave’s shift to the vadose zone. Structural analysis identifies three main neotectonic phases: NNW-SSE striking faults (oldest group of structures), NE-SW striking faults with dextral strike-slip movement (post-middle Miocene), and NE-SW striking normal faults indicating extensional stress-regime (Quartenary). The last two phases affect cave passage shape causing wall displacement, highlighting passage formation along discontinuities perpendicular to the horizontal minimum stress axis.
Influence of Settlement on Base Resistance of Long Piles in Soft Soil—Field and Machine Learning Assessments
Authors: Nguyen Thanh T. , Le Viet D. , Huynh Thien Q. , Nguyen Nhu H.T.
Published: May 2024

Understanding the role that settlement can have on the base resistance of piles is a crucial matter in the design and safety control of deep foundations under various buildings and infrastructure, especially for long to super-long piles (60–90 m length) in soft soil. This paper presents a novel assessment of this issue by applying explainable machine learning (ML) techniques to a robust database (1131 datapoints) of fully instrumented pile tests across 37 real-life projects in the Mekong Delta. The analysis of data based on conventional methods shows distinct responses of long piles to rising settlement, as compared to short piles. The base resistance can rapidly develop at a small settlement threshold (0.015–0.03% of pile’s length) and contribute up to 50–55% of the total bearing capacity in short piles, but it slowly rises over a wide range of settlement to only 20–25% in long piles due to considerable loss of settlement impact over the depth. Furthermore, by leveraging the advantages of ML methods, the results significantly enhance our understanding of the settlement–base resistance relationship through explainable computations. The ML-based prediction method is compared with popular practice codes for pile foundations, further attesting to the high accuracy and reliability of the newly established model.
Hospital Environmental Factors That Influence Peripheral Oxygen Saturation Measurements: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: de la Merced Díaz-González Candelaria , Pérez-Bello Cristina , De la Rosa-Hormiga Milagros , González-Henríquez Juan José , de las Mercedes Reyes-Noha María
Published: May 2024

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive, cost-effective, and generally reliable instrument measuring pulse rate and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2). However, these measurements can be affected by the patient’s internal or external factors, including the type of pulse oximeter device (POD). (1) This study’s objective was to identify potential environmental factors that may impact the measurements taken by three PODs. (2) Methods: A descriptive–analytical cross-sectional study was designed. The patients’ SpO2 levels were measured using a standard monitor and two PODs owned by the professionals. The measurements were taken on the patients’ fingers. Concurrently, we evaluated the surrounding environmental conditions, encompassing temperature, humidity, illuminance, and noise. (3) Results: This study involved 288 adult participants in the sample. For each 20-decibel increment in noise, there was a reduction in SpO2 by an average of 1%, whereas for every additional degree of ambient temperature, SpO2 decreased by an average of 2% (4) Conclusions: Significant correlations between SpO2 and age, as well as with noise and ambient temperature, were observed. No significant differences between oxygen saturation and lighting or humidity were observed. This study was prospectively registered with the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of Gran Canaria at the Dr. Negrín University Hospital, with protocol code 2019-247-1, and approved on 24 May 2019.
Cultural Routes as Cultural Tourism Products for Heritage Conservation and Regional Development: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lin Xinyue , Shen Zhenjiang , Teng Xiao , Mao Qizhi
Published: May 2024

Cultural routes are a composite set of heritage sites that refer to historical routes of human communication. As key products of cultural tourism, they provide visitors with rich cultural experiences across regions. We systematically review reports and studies related to the tourism development of 38 cultural route cases worldwide, with a special focus on their distribution, typology, planning patterns, and tools for cultural tourism. We summarized eight tools and found some differences in how often these eight tools are used by the different types of routes and different planning patterns for route tourism. This study also developed an evaluation system based on the conservation principles of cultural routes to determine how different tourism tools affect the conservation and development of historical regions. Although tourism decision-makers have made numerous efforts to protect and develop cultural routes, there are still many problems and challenges in the process of tourism development along cultural routes. We conclude the paper by making recommendations for decision-makers and researchers concerning future route tourism planning and study.
Application of the Cryo-Drying Technique in Maintaining Bioactive and Antioxidant Properties in Basil Leaves (Ocimum basilicum)
Authors: de Carvalho Jade Vitória Duarte , de Freitas Rafaela Valente , Bezerra Carolina Vieira , Teixeira-Costa Bárbara E. , dos Santos Orquídea Vasconcelo
Published: May 2024

The objective of this work is to compare the levels of bioactive compounds in fresh and freeze-dried basil leaves (Ocimum basilicum), using methodological procedures that follow internationally recommended and accepted standards. The results show comparisons of bioactives between fresh and freeze-dried leaves, respectively, with results expressing the average levels of vitamin C (9.50–63.3 mg/100 g); total polyphenols (1.8–3.9 mgEAG/g); flavonoids (0.73–1.78 mg/g); chlorophyll a (2287.8–1003.8 μg/100 g); chlorophyll b (2606–2287 μg/100 g) and total carotenoids with averages of 16.71–20.6 mg/100 g). Regarding color, there was variation in the parameters L*, a*, and b* of the dry sample, but the tendency towards green e (a+) and yellow (b−) was maintained. Infrared analysis (FTIR) demonstrated the presence of functional groups related to cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Thermogravimetry (TG/DTG) shows stability in the range of 234 °C, showing a more intense mass loss at 294.6 °C. Given the data, it is possible to infer that the application of freeze-drying produces few changes in bioactive compounds and chemical groups and maintains good thermal stability, proving to be a viable alternative to increasing the commercialization of basil leaves, as it prolongs their useful life, and increases the forms of food applications.
An Analysis of the Main Nutrient Components of the Fruits of Different Macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia) Cultivars in Rocky Desertification Areas and a Comprehensive Evaluation of the Mineral Element Contents
Authors: Kang Zhuanmiao , Guo Guangzheng , He Fengping , Zeng Hui , Tu Xinghao , Wang Wenlin
Published: May 2024

This study aims to understand the main nutrient composition and comprehensively evaluate the differences in the mineral element contents of fruits of different macadamia cultivars, as well as screen good cultivars that are suitable for use in rocky desert mountains. Nine macadamia nut cultivars were selected as test materials in rocky desert mountain orchards. The contents of crude fat, crude protein, and total soluble sugar in kernels and N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, and B in peels and kernels were determined, respectively. Then, the kernels’ mineral element contents were comprehensively evaluated based on principal component analysis. The results showed that the kernels were rich in crude fat, protein, and soluble sugar, with the crude fat content reaching 75% or greater, and the variation among cultivars was small. However, the variation in soluble sugar content was extensive. The content of mineral elements varied in different cultivars and parts of the fruit, with the average macronutrient content being K > N > Ca > P > Mg in the pericarp and N > K > P > Mg > Ca in the kernel, and the content of micronutrients in the pericarp and the kernel being Mn > Fe > Zn > Cu > B. By principal component analysis, the 10 mineral nutrient indexes were calculated as four principal components, with a cumulative contribution rate of 88.051%. Using the affiliation function value method and the calculation of the comprehensive evaluation value, the nine cultivars could be classified into three categories. The cultivar with the highest comprehensive evaluation value of the mineral element content was O.C. The one with the lowest value was H2, which indicated that O.C is a suitable variety for popularization in rocky desert mountainous areas. Stepwise regression analysis concluded that P, K, Fe, Mn, and Cu were the indicators significantly influencing the mineral element content of macadamia nuts and fruits in rocky desert mountains.
Evaluation of a Pilot Wellness Elective for Master of Public Health Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: O’Malley Blaise Y. , Etoundi-Ngono Edgard , Hua Jianjun , Nano Joseph P. , Pipas Catherine F.
Published: May 2024

Background: Graduate student wellbeing is a public health issue in the United States. The COVID-19 outbreak exacerbated the mental health burden on graduate students worldwide. Culture of Wellness (PH 104) is a 2-week wellbeing elective course that teaches evidence-based wellbeing strategies for graduate students at a university in the United States. Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of this pilot wellbeing elective on Master of Public Health students’ mental health and wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Participants included 22 Master of Public Health students from the class of 2021 at a university in the United States. We provided a pre-course survey to students that assessed their perception of their own personal wellbeing, their knowledge about various wellbeing strategies, and their confidence in applying 13 wellbeing strategies before taking the course. Post-course students completed the same survey following course completion, as well as a matching evaluation and a five-month follow up survey. Results: Of the 13 strategies taught, students reported significant improvements in their ability to apply 10 strategies. There was a significant increase in self-reported emotional and physical wellbeing, as well as a significant decrease in burnout. Five months post-course, more than three quarters of respondents used strategies taught in the course on a weekly basis or more. Limitations: This pilot study is limited by its small sample size, which may restrict the generalizability of the findings. Conclusions: The PH 104 Culture of Wellness course was effective in improving graduate students’ wellbeing and confidence in applying wellbeing strategies
Dual Role of NMDAR Containing NR2A and NR2B Subunits in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Raïch Iu , Lillo Jaume , Rebassa Joan Biel , Capó Toni , Cordomí Arnau , Reyes-Resina Irene , Pallàs Mercè , Navarro Gemma
Published: May 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the main cause of dementia worldwide. Given that learning and memory are impaired in this pathology, NMDA receptors (NMDARs) appear as key players in the onset and progression of the disease. NMDARs are glutamate receptors, mainly located at the post-synapse, which regulate voltage-dependent influx of calcium into the neurons. They are heterotetramers, and there are different subunits that can be part of the receptors, which are usually composed of two obligatory GluN1 subunits plus either two NR2A or two NR2B subunits. NR2A are mostly located at the synapse, and their activation is involved in the expression of pro-survival genes. Conversely, NR2B are mainly extrasynaptic, and their activation has been related to cell death and neurodegeneration. Thus, activation of NR2A and/or inactivation of NR2B-containing NMDARS has been proposed as a therapeutic strategy to treat AD. Here, we wanted to investigate the main differences between both subunits signalling in neuronal primary cultures of the cortex and hippocampus. It has been observed that Aβ induces a significant increase in calcium release and also in MAPK phosphorylation signalling in NR2B-containing NMDAR in cortical and hippocampal neurons. However, while NR2A-containing NMDAR decreases neuronal death and favours cell viability after Aβ treatment, NR2B-containing NMDAR shows higher levels of cytotoxicity and low levels of neuronal survival. Finally, it has been detected that NMDAR has no effect on pTau axonal transport. The present results demonstrate a different role between GluNA and GluNB subunits in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Prognostic Value of HHLA2 in Patients with Solid Tumors: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kula Agnieszka , Dawidowicz Miriam , Mielcarska Sylwia , Świętochowska Elżbieta , Waniczek Dariusz
Published: May 2024

HHLA2 is a checkpoint from the B7 family that can play a co-stimulatory or co-inhibitory role in cancer, depending on the binding receptor. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the relationship between HHLA2 levels and its impact on the prognosis of patients with solid cancers. The study used data from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science (WOS), Cochrane and SCOPUS databases. The R studio software was used for the data analysis. The study assessed overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), progression-free survival (PFS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), and disease-free survival (DFS) by pooling appropriate hazard ratios (HR). Eighteen studies (2880 patients’ data) were included. High expression of HHLA2 was associated with worse OS (HR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.23–2.03), shorter RFS (HR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.38–2.77) and worse DFS (HR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.01–2.09) in patients with solid cancers. The current study suggests that high expression of HHLA2 is associated with poorer prognosis in patients with solid cancers.
Effects of UV-B Radiation Exposure on Transgenerational Plasticity in Grain Morphology and Proanthocyanidin Content in Yuanyang Red Rice
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wang Xiupin , Zu Yanqun , He Yongmei , Li Zuran , Li Yuan
Published: May 2024

The effect of UV-B radiation exposure on transgenerational plasticity, the phenomenon whereby the parental environment influences both the parent’s and the offspring’s phenotype, is poorly understood. To investigate the impact of exposing successive generations of rice plants to UV-B radiation on seed morphology and proanthocyanidin content, the local traditional rice variety ‘Baijiaolaojing’ was planted on terraces in Yuanyang county and subjected to enhanced UV-B radiation treatments. The radiation intensity that caused the maximum phenotypic plasticity (7.5 kJ·m−2) was selected for further study, and the rice crops were cultivated for four successive generations. The results show that in the same generation, enhanced UV-B radiation resulted in significant decreases in grain length, grain width, spike weight, and thousand-grain weight, as well as significant increases in empty grain percentage and proanthocyanidin content, compared with crops grown under natural light conditions. Proanthocyanidin content increased as the number of generations of rice exposed to radiation increased, but in generation G3, it decreased, along with the empty grain ratio. At the same time, biomass, tiller number, and thousand-grain weight increased, and rice growth returned to control levels. When the offspring’s radiation memory and growth environment did not match, rice growth was negatively affected, and seed proanthocyanidin content was increased to maintain seed activity. The correlation analysis results show that phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL), cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H), dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (DFR), and 4-coumarate:CoA ligase (4CL) enzyme activity positively influenced proanthocyanidin content. Overall, UV-B radiation affected transgenerational plasticity in seed morphology and proanthocyanidin content, showing that rice was able to adapt to this stressor if previous generations had been continuously exposed to treatment.
Circadian Clock in Muscle Disease Etiology and Therapeutic Potential for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Kiperman Tali , Ma Ke
Published: May 2024

Circadian clock and clock-controlled output pathways exert temporal control in diverse aspects of skeletal muscle physiology, including the maintenance of muscle mass, structure, function, and metabolism. They have emerged as significant players in understanding muscle disease etiology and potential therapeutic avenues, particularly in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This review examines the intricate interplay between circadian rhythms and muscle physiology, highlighting how disruptions of circadian regulation may contribute to muscle pathophysiology and the specific mechanisms linking circadian clock dysregulation with DMD. Moreover, we discuss recent advancements in chronobiological research that have shed light on the circadian control of muscle function and its relevance to DMD. Understanding clock output pathways involved in muscle mass and function offers novel insights into the pathogenesis of DMD and unveils promising avenues for therapeutic interventions. We further explore potential chronotherapeutic strategies targeting the circadian clock to ameliorate muscle degeneration which may inform drug development efforts for muscular dystrophy.
Studies on the Thermal Decomposition Course of Nitrogen-Rich Heterocyclic Esters as Potential Drug Candidates and Evaluation of Their Thermal Stability and Properties
Authors: Worzakowska Marta , Sztanke Krzysztof , Sztanke Małgorzata
Published: May 2024

Drug candidates must undergo thermal evaluation as early as possible in the preclinical phase of drug development because undesirable changes in their structure and physicochemical properties may result in decreased pharmacological activity or enhanced toxicity. Hence, the detailed evaluation of nitrogen-rich heterocyclic esters as potential drug candidates, i.e., imidazolidinoannelated triazinylformic acid ethyl esters 1–3 (where R1 = 4–CH3 or 4–OCH3 or 4–Cl, and R2 = –COOC2H5) and imidazolidinoannelated triazinylacetic acid methyl esters 4–6 (where R1 = 4–CH3 or 4–OCH3 or 4–Cl, and R2 = –CH2COOCH3)—in terms of their melting points, melting enthalpy values, thermal stabilities, pyrolysis, and oxidative decomposition course—has been carried out, using the simultaneous thermal analysis methods (TG/DTG/DSC) coupled with spectroscopic techniques (FTIR and QMS). It was found that the melting process (documented as one sharp peak related to the solid–liquid phase transition) of the investigated esters proceeded without their thermal decomposition. It was confirmed that the melting points of the tested compounds increased in relation to R1 and R2 as follows: 2 (R1 = 4–OCH3; R2 = –COOC2H5) < 6 (R1 = 4–Cl; R2 = –CH2COOCH3) < 5 (R1 = 4–OCH3; R2 = –CH2COOCH3) < 3 (R1 = 4–Cl; R2 = –COOC2H5) < 1 (R1 = 4–CH3; R2 = –COOC2H5) < 4 (R1 = 4–CH3; R2 = –CH2COOCH3). All polynitrogenated heterocyclic esters proved to be thermally stable up to 250 °C in inert and oxidising conditions, although 1–3 were characterised by higher thermal stability compared to 4–6. The results confirmed that both the pyrolysis and the oxidative decomposition of heterocyclic ethyl formates/methyl acetates with para-substitutions at the phenyl moiety proceed according to the radical mechanism. In inert conditions, the pyrolysis process of the studied molecules occurred with the homolytic breaking of the C–C, C–N, and C–O bonds. This led to the emission of alcohol (ethanol in the case of 1–3 or methanol in the case of 4–6), NH3, HCN, HNCO, aldehydes, CO2, CH4, HCl, aromatics, and H2O. In turn, in the presence of air, cleavage of the C–C, C–N, and C–O bonds connected with some oxidation and combustion processes took place. This led to the emission of the corresponding alcohol depending on the analysed class of heterocyclic esters, NH3, HCN, HNCO, aldehydes, N2, NO/NO2, CO, CO2, HCl, aromatics, and H2O. Additionally, after some biological tests, it was proven that all nitrogen-rich heterocyclic esters—as potential drug candidates—are safe for erythrocytes, and some of them are able to protect red blood cells from oxidative stress-induced damage.