bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active Video Games Performance and Heart Rate on the Wii or Kinect in Children with and without Developmental Coordination Disorder
Authors: Cavalcante-Neto Jorge Lopes , Jelsma Dorothee , Draghi Tatiane Targino Gomes , Tudella Eloisa , Smits-Engelsman Bouwien
Published: November 2022

Our objective was to compare changes in game performance and intensity of heart rate (HR) between two types of active video game (AVG) in children with and without Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Additionally, we assessed the level of improvement per game as well as the perceived exertion and enjoyment during training. Seventy-six children, 36 with DCD and 40 without (TD) were randomly assigned to a 5-week program of Wii-Fit or Xbox-Kinect training 2× a week. The steepness of the performance curves was not different between consoles, nor between groups. Playing Kinect games resulted in higher HR in both groups. Wii and Kinect seem to be comparable AVG consoles that can be used for children with and without DCD, with the Kinect reaching a higher intensity of training.
An Artificial Intelligence Approach to Support Detection of Neonatal Adverse Drug Reactions Based on Severity and Probability Scores: A New Risk Score as Web-Tool
Authors: Yalçın Nadir , Kaşıkcı Merve , Çelik Hasan Tolga , Allegaert Karel , Demirkan Kutay , Yiğit Şule , Yurdakök Murat
Published: November 2022

Background: Critically ill neonates are at greater risk for adverse drug reactions (ADRs). The differentiation of ADRs from reactions associated with organ dysfunction/immaturity or genetic variability is difficult. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, each ADR was assessed using newborn-specific severity and probability scales by the clinical pharmacist. Subsequently, a machine learning-based risk score was designed to predict ADR presence in neonates. Results: In 98/412 (23.8%) of (56.3%; male) neonates included, 187 ADRs (0.42 ADR/patient) were determined related to 49 different drugs (37.12%). Drugs identified as high risk were enoxaparin, dexmedetomidine, vinblastine, dornase alfa, etoposide/carboplatin and prednisolone. The independent variables included in the risk score to predict ADR presence, according to the random forest importance criterion, were: systemic hormones (2 points), cardiovascular drugs (3 points), diseases of the circulatory system (1 point), nervous system drugs (1 point), and parenteral nutrition treatment (1 point), (cut-off value: 3 points). This risk score correctly classified 91.1% of the observations in the test set (c-index: 0.914). Conclusions: Using the high-performing risk score specific to neonates, it is expected that high-risk neonatal ADRs can be determined and prevented before they occur. Moreover, the awareness of clinicians of these drugs can be improved with this web-tool, and mitigation strategies (change of drug, dose, treatment duration, etc.) can be considered, based on a benefit-harm relationship for suspected drugs with a newborn-centered approach.
The Role of Exercise on Cardiometabolic Profile and Body Composition in Youth with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Kaza Maria , Tsentidis Charalampos , Vlachopapadopoulou Elpis , Karanasios Spyridon , Sakou Irine-Ikbale , Mastorakos George , Karavanaki Kyriaki
Published: November 2022

Exercise has a direct positive effect on glycemic control by promoting insulin secretion from β-pancreatic islet-cells and by increasing skeletal muscle glucose uptake. The reduction in daily insulin needs and the optimization of glycemic control improves the patient’s quality of life, self-esteem, mental wellness, as well as diabetes-related mobility and mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of physical activity in children and adolescents with type-1 diabetes (T1D) on diabetic control, cardiovascular, and biochemical profiles; hs-CRP; IL6; leptin; and adiponectin levels of the population under study. This is a prospective cross-sectional study that involved 80 participants (36 boys and 44 girls) with T1D, who were aged 6–21 years and who attended the Diabetes and Metabolism Clinic of the 2nd Pediatric Department, University of Athens, “P & A Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital of Athens. Twenty (25%) children were above the 75th percentile regarding total levels of physical activity, while 40 (50%) and 20 (25%) were between the 25th and 75th percentile, as well as below the 25th percentile, respectively. In the group with an intermediate level of exercise, physical activity was negatively associated with the participant’s family situation (traditional, single parent, grandparent, with others, or by himself/herself) (p = 0.013), ferritin (p = 0.031), lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] (p = 0.016), and squared leptin levels (p = 0.040). Whereas in the groups with extreme vs. no exercise there was a negative association with the number of daily glucose measurements (p = 0.047). However, in the group with non-vigorous exercise, physical activity was positively associated with high density lipoprotein-c (HDL-c) levels (p = 0.048). The findings of this study are indicative of the beneficial role of exercise on children and adolescents with T1D, which is achieved by primarily improving their cardiometabolic profile through the amelioration of lipid profile [HDL-c, Lp(a)] and leptin levels, as well as by reducing chronic systemic inflammatory response (ferritin) and ultimately decreasing the overall diabetes morbidity.
Use of Health-Promoting Food and Supplements in Swiss Children
Authors: Légeret Corinne , Lohmann Clarissa , Pedrini Laura , Sarbach Laurin , Furlano Raoul , Köhler Henrik
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Our diet is the sum of many different influences and has visibly changed over the past decades. Since children also imitate their parents when it comes to eating habits, the aim of the study was to assess the current dietary habits in Swiss children. Method: Cross-sectional study of children between 0 and 18 years of age in Switzerland. Results: A total of 1964 children participated, with an average age of 7.4 years. A total of 57.9% of participants stated to buy supplements to promote health, while fruit juices/smoothies were the most popular product (42.5%), followed by protein-enriched products (40%) and vitamins/minerals (29%). A statistically significant correlation between longer screen time, a higher socioeconomic background, and the intake of supplements was found. Over 20% of all families regularly consume plant-based drinks. Discussion: This Swiss cross-sectional study of over 1900 participants reveals that 58% of all participants buy supplements or special kid’s food to promote the child’s health. There is a correlation between higher screen time, higher parental income, and the usage of supplements. A total of 23% of participating families consume at least one plant-based drink on a regular basis. As more and more families use supplements, the pediatrician should not only focus on weight, which reflects the intake of macronutrients but should also take a history of whether children omit certain foods or take supplements to ensure the child does not have a deficiency of micronutrients.
Modeling the Static and Dynamic Behaviors of a Large Heavy-Duty Lathe Machine under Rated Loads
Authors: Lin Chien-Yu , Luh Yuan-Ping , Lin Wei-Zhu , Lin Bo-Chen , Hung Jui-Pin
Published: November 2022

The static and dynamic performances of a machine tool structure are considered to constitute the primary factors affecting the load-carrying capacity, geometric accuracy and surface precision of the workpiece. The machining performance of a large machine tool under stable conditions is effectively determined by its dynamic response to the cutting force at low-frequency excitation. This study, therefore, investigated the static and dynamic characteristics of a large heavy-duty lathe machine tool in which the headstock and tailstock comprised critical component modules supporting a large workpiece during low-speed machining. Using a finite element model, the influences of the structural modules on the static and dynamic characteristics of the lathe were analyzed, considering the effects of the workpiece load. The results indicated that the fundamental vibration modes of the lathe were primarily dominated by headstock, tailstock, and workpiece behaviors. The maximum compliances of the lathe under the rated load were found to occur at relatively low frequencies (22, 40.7, and 82.7 Hz) and increase with the reduction in workpiece weight. Notably, these modal frequencies were significantly higher than the maximum rotational speed of the spindle (450 rpm). In addition, the dynamic rigidity corresponding to the rated speed was higher than that induced at the natural frequency. These results indicate that the subject lathe possesses sufficient capacity to sustain the cutting load during stable turning machining. This study can, therefore, help designers improve the performance of machine tools for future fabrication.
Identifying and Classifying Urban Data Sources for Machine Learning-Based Sustainable Urban Planning and Decision Support Systems Development
Authors: Tékouabou Stéphane C. K. , Chenal Jérôme , Azmi Rida , Toulni Hamza , Diop El Bachir , Nikiforova Anastasija
Published: November 2022

With the increase in the amount and variety of data that are constantly produced, collected, and exchanged between systems, the efficiency and accuracy of solutions/services that use data as input may suffer if an inappropriate or inaccurate technique, method, or tool is chosen to deal with them. This paper presents a global overview of urban data sources and structures used to train machine learning (ML) algorithms integrated into urban planning decision support systems (DSS). It contributes to a common understanding of choosing the right urban data for a given urban planning issue, i.e., their type, source and structure, for more efficient use in training ML models. For the purpose of this study, we conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) of all relevant peer-reviewed studies available in the Scopus database. More precisely, 248 papers were found to be relevant with their further analysis using a text-mining approach to determine (a) the main urban data sources used for ML modeling, (b) the most popular approaches used in relevant urban planning and urban problem-solving studies and their relationship to the type of data source used, and (c) the problems commonly encountered in their use. After classifying them, we identified the strengths and weaknesses of data sources depending on several predefined factors. We found that the data mainly come from two main categories of sources, namely (1) sensors and (2) statistical surveys, including social network data. They can be classified as (a) opportunistic or (b) non-opportunistic depending on the process of data acquisition, collection, and storage. Data sources are closely correlated with their structure and potential urban planning issues to be addressed. Almost all urban data have an indexed structure and, in particular, either attribute tables for statistical survey data and data from simple sensors (e.g., climate and pollution sensors) or vectors, mostly obtained from satellite images after large-scale spatio-temporal analysis. The paper also provides a discussion of the potential opportunities, emerging issues, and challenges that urban data sources face and should overcome to better catalyze intelligent/smart planning. This should contribute to the general understanding of the data, their sources and the challenges to be faced and overcome by those seeking data and integrating them into smart applications and urban-planning processes.
Topographical and Ultrastructural Evaluation of Titanium Plates Coated with PLGA, Chitosan, and/or Meropenem: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Al-Qubaisey Mohammad , Khounganian Rita , Al-Badah Abdulhakim , Ali Raisuddin
Published: November 2022

The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the topographical and ultrastructural architecture of titanium plates coated with polylactic co-glycolic acid (PLGA), chitosan (CH), and/or meropenem (MEM) with or without Staphylococcus aureus (SA) or Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) bacteria. Single-hole segments of 0.4 mm thick, low-profile titanium plates were spray coated using an airbrush with polymeric carriers (PLGA or CH) loaded with MEM, in addition to the negative control group (uncoated titanium plates). The coated plates and the negative control group were subjected to bacterial biofilms through a cultivation process while being slowly stirred at 20 rpm for 24 h. The samples were fixed and processed for scanning electron microscopic study at 5, 10, and 20 k magnification. The data were statistically analyzed to compare within and between the different materials. Coating titanium plates with PLGA or CH with MEM appeared to enhance bacterial inhibition over uncoated plates, hindering biofilm formation and preventing bacterial proliferation. In the staphylococcus aureus group, the highest bacterial count was observed in the uncoated plates, whereas the lowest count was detected in meropenem-PLGA, followed by PLGA, chitosan, meropenem, and meropenem-chitosan, respectively. On the other hand, the Pseudomonas aeruginosa group with the uncoated plates had the highest bacterial count, whereas the lowest bacterial count was found related to CH, followed by PLGA, MP, MC, and MEM, respectively.
Resin Composites in Posterior Teeth: Clinical Performance and Direct Restorative Techniques
Authors: Pizzolotto Lucas , Moraes Rafael R.
Published: November 2022

Resin composites are the most versatile restorative materials used in dentistry and the first choice for restoring posterior teeth. This article reviews aspects that influence the clinical performance of composite restorations and addresses clinically relevant issues regarding different direct techniques for restoring posterior teeth that could be performed in varied clinical situations. The article discusses the results of long-term clinical trials with resin composites and the materials available in the market for posterior restorations. The importance of photoactivation is presented, including aspects concerning the improvement of the efficiency of light-curing procedures. With regard to the restorative techniques, the article addresses key elements and occlusion levels for restoring Class I and Class II cavities, in addition to restorative strategies using different shades/opacities of resin composites in incremental techniques, restorations using bulk-fill composites, and shade-matching composites.
The Industrial Pattern of Italian Regions: A Disaggregated Sectoral Analysis Based on Input–Output Tables
Authors: Ciaschini Clio , Carlucci Margherita , Chelli Francesco Maria , Lamonica Giuseppe Ricciardo , Salvati Luca
Published: November 2022

Italy joined the so-called ‘Industry 4.0’ European framework in 2016, which designed and approved a national plan to regulate this key issue for regional development. To better support such a framework, the present study attempts to quantify the contribution of the Italian regions to the output formation process. More specifically, a multi-sectoral Input–Output (IO) model that supports national policies was proposed to cumulatively consider 29 industries that partition the Italian economy into representative branches at the level of administrative regions. Elementary input data were derived from the inter-sectoral table of the economy released by the Italian National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT). The economic outcomes of the Italian regions were estimated using a non-survey procedure, based on Flegg Location Quotients, to determine the upstream and downstream positions of each industry at country and regional levels. Indices grounded on the Hypothetical Extraction Method (HEM) further delineated the role each industry plays in the regional economy. The empirical findings of this study demonstrate how non-survey IO regionalization and the resulting industry-based indices provide appropriate knowledge for regional development policies.
The Evolution of Fermented Milks, from Artisanal to Industrial Products: A Critical Review
Authors: Bintsis Thomas , Papademas Photis
Published: November 2022

The manufacture of fermented milk products has a long history, and these products were initially produced either from spontaneous fermentation or using a batch of previously produced product, that is, back-slopping. Milk of different mammal species has traditionally been used for the manufacture of fermented milk products. Cow’s milk is the basis for most dairy fermented products around the world. Milk from other mammals, including sheep, goat, camel, mare, buffalo, and yak may have been historically more important and remain so in certain regions. The milks from different species have differences in chemical composition and in certain, vital for the fermentation, components. The diversity of fermented milk products is further influenced by the wide variety of manufacturing practices. A great number of fermented dairy products have been traditionally produced worldwide, and many of them are still produced either following the same traditional process or manufactured industrially, using standardized processes under controlled conditions with specified starter cultures. The evolution from traditional to industrial production, their specific regional differences, their special characteristics, and the microbiological aspects of fermented dairy products are discussed. Throughout the evolution of fermented milk products, functional and therapeutic properties have been attributed to certain components and thus, yogurts and fermented milks have gained a significant market share. These products have gained wide global recognition as they meet consumers’ expectations for health-promoting and functional foods. The exploitation of microbiological methods based on DNA (or RNA) extraction and recently high-throughput techniques allowed for the accurate identification of the microbiota of fermented milk products. These techniques have revealed the significance of the properties of the autochthonous microbes and provided novel insights into the role of the microbiota in the functional and organoleptic properties of many fermented milk products.
Untargeted Metabolomics Combined with Metabolic Flux Analysis Reveals the Mechanism of Sodium Citrate for High S-Adenosyl-Methionine Production by Pichia pastoris
Authors: Xu Wentao , Xu Feng , Song Weijing , Dong Le , Qian Jiangchao , Huang Mingzhi
Published: November 2022

S-adenosyl-methionine (SAM) is crucial for organisms to maintain some physiological functions. However, the inconsistency between high L-methionine feeding rate and yield during SAM production at an industrial scale and its metabolic mechanism have not been elucidated. Here, the cellular metabolic mechanism of feeding sodium citrate to the Pichia pastoris (P. pastoris) G12’/AOX-acs2 strain to enhance SAM production was investigated using untargeted metabolomics and metabolic flux analysis. The results indicated that the addition of sodium citrate has a facilitative effect on SAM production. In addition, 25 metabolites, such as citrate, cis-aconitate, and L-glutamine, were significantly up-regulated, and 16 metabolites, such as glutathione, were significantly down-regulated. Furthermore, these significantly differential metabolites were mainly distributed in 13 metabolic pathways, such as the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. In addition, the metabolic fluxes of the glycolysis pathway, pentose phosphate pathway, TCA cycle, and glyoxylate pathway were increased by 20.45–29.32%, respectively, under the condition of feeding sodium citrate compared with the control. Finally, it was speculated that the upregulation of dihydroxyacetone level might increase the activity of alcohol oxidase AOX1 to promote methanol metabolism by combining metabolomics and fluxomics. Meanwhile, acetyl coenzyme A might enhance the activity of citrate synthase through allosteric activation to promote the flux of the TCA cycle and increase the level of intracellular oxidative phosphorylation, thus contributing to SAM production. These new insights into the L-methionine utilization for SAM biosynthesis by systematic biology in P. pastoris provides a novel vision for increasing its industrial production.
Varietal Aromas of Sauvignon Blanc: Impact of Oxidation and Antioxidants Used in Winemaking
Authors: Tsai Pei-Chin , Araujo Leandro Dias , Tian Bin
Published: November 2022

Key varietal characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc, including the descriptors of ‘green’ and ‘tropical fruit’, are mostly attributed to methoxypyrazines and volatile thiols, while monoterpenes, higher alcohols, esters, fatty acids, and other volatile compounds also add complexity and fruity notes to the wines. During the winemaking and ageing period, oxidation decreases the concentrations of these compounds and diminishes the flavours derived from this aromatic grape variety. Therefore, antioxidants, such as sulfur dioxide, are commonly utilized in Sauvignon Blanc wine production for better preservation of those beneficial primary aromas. This review focuses on key varietal aromas in Sauvignon Blanc wine and how they are influenced by oxidation, and SO2 alternatives, including ascorbic acid, glutathione, and glutathione-enriched inactivated dry yeasts, that can be used in winemaking as antioxidants.
Toxic Metals (Al, Cd, and Pb) in Instant Soups: An Assessment of Dietary Intake
Authors: Niebla-Canelo Daniel , Gutiérrez-Fernández Ángel J. , Rubio-Armendáriz Carmen , Hardisson Arturo , González-Weller Dailos , Paz-Montelongo Soraya
Published: November 2022

Instant soups and noodles are one of the most widely consumed commercial food products. These products are made from ingredients of animal (chicken, meat) and/or vegetable origin, in addition to various food additives that prolong the shelf life of the product. It should be noted that instant soups are a dehydrated product, whose water-removal process can increase the accumulation of contaminants, such as toxic metals (Al, Cd, or Pb), that are harmful to the health of consumers. The content of toxic metals (Al, Cd, and Pb) in a total of 130 samples of instant soups of different types (poultry, meat, and vegetables) was determined by ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry). The Al content (32.28 ± 19.26), the Cd content (0.027 ± 0.016), and the Pb content (0.12 ± 0.13) in the vegetable soups were worth mentioning. Considering an intake of twenty grams (recommended by the manufacturer), the dietary intake of Al (19.56% of the TWI set at 1 mg/kg bw/week), the intake of Cd (6.59% of the TWI set at 2.5 µg/kg bw/week), and the Pb intake (16.18% of the BMDL set for nephrotoxic effects at 0.63 µg/kg bw/week and 6.84% of the BMDL set for cardiovascular effects at 1.50 µg/kg bw/week) in the population aged 3–10 years, instant soups are not recommended for the population aged 3–10 years, while their consumption does not pose a health risk for adults. However, it is necessary to consider the cooking water used in the preparation of these products, as it may increase exposure to these toxic metals, in addition to the rest of the diet.
Chemical, Technological, and Sensory Quality of Pasta and Bakery Products Made with the Addition of Grape Pomace Flour
Authors: Boff Jaqueline Menti , Strasburg Virgílio José , Ferrari Gabriel Tonin , de Oliveira Schmidt Helena , Manfroi Vitor , de Oliveira Viviani Ruffo
Published: November 2022

Grapes are one of the most cultivated fruits in the world. Concomitantly, a large amount of waste is generated from this product. Grape pomace (GP) flour can be used as an increment for making new food products. GP is rich in fibers and phenolic compounds, and in addition could be used to reduce agro-industrial residues. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of the addition of different percentages of grape pomace (GP) on the chemical, technological, and sensory characteristics in pasta and bakery products. An integrative review was conducted. The selection of papers was carried out by searching studies in databases. An improvement in chemical quality with the addition of GP was observed, such as fiber, anthocyanin, and micronutrient content. Biscuits, cookies, cakes, breads, and pasta did not show any impairment in terms of acceptability. However, biscuits and cookies had the best global acceptance. The degree of acceptance still seems to be low for the use of GP to be included in high quantities in successful products. Samples with a maximum of 10% addition of GP flour seem to be accepted. On the other hand, the higher the percentage of GP flour, the healthier benefits they seem to promote.
1H NMR Metabolic Profiling and Meat Quality in Three Beef Cattle Breeds from Northeastern Thailand
Authors: Phoemchalard Chirasak , Uriyapongson Suthipong , Tathong Tanom , Pornanek Pitukpol
Published: November 2022

The increasing need for effective analytical tools to evaluate beef quality has prompted the development of new procedures to improve the animal sector’s performance. In this study, three beef breeds—Thai native (TN), crossbred Brahman × Thai native (BT), and crossbred Charolais × Brahman (CB)—were compared in terms of their physicochemical and metabolic profiles. The findings demonstrated that TN beef was lighter and tougher than other beef. Beef odor was stronger in BT. In addition, CB beef was the most tender and had the highest intramuscular fat content. Twenty-one different metabolites were found overall through NMR and chemometric approaches. The primary factors contributing to the difference in OPLS-DA loading plots were acetylcholine, valine, adenine, leucine, phosphocreatine, β-hydroxypyruvate, ethanol, adenosine diphosphate, creatine, acetylcholine, and lactate. The multivariate analysis indicated that these metabolites in beef cattle breeds could be distinguished using NMR spectroscopy. The results of this study provide valuable information on the quality and meat metabolites of different breeds. This could help in the development of a more accurate assessment of the quality of beef in future research.
Comparison of an Artificial Neural Network and a Response Surface Model during the Extraction of Selenium-Containing Protein from Selenium-Enriched Brassica napus L.
Authors: Yang Tao , Lai Hongkun , Cao Zimo , Niu Yinyin , Xiang Jiqian , Zhang Chi , Shang Longchen
Published: November 2022

In this study, the extraction conditions for selenium-enriched rape protein (SEP) were optimized by applying a response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) model, and then, the optimal conditions were obtained using a genetic algorithm (GA). Then, the antioxidant power of the SEP was examined by using the DPPH, ABTS, and CCK-8 (Cell Counting Kit-8), and its anticancer activities were explored by conducting a cell migration test. The results showed that compared with the RSM model, the ANN model was more accurate with a higher determination coefficient and fewer errors when it was applied to optimize the extraction method. The data obtained for SEP using a GA were as follows: the extraction temperature was 59.4 °C, the extraction time was 3.0 h, the alkaline concentration was 0.24 mol/L, the liquid-to-material ratio was 65.2 mL/g, and the predicted content of protein was 58.04 mg/g. The protein was extracted under the conditions obtained by the GA; the real content of protein was 57.69 mg/g, and the protein yield was 61.71%. Finally, as the concentration of the selenium-containing protein increased, it showed increased ability in scavenging free radicals and was influential in inhibiting the proliferation and migration of HepG2 cells.
Comparative Evaluation of Hydrothermally Produced Rice Starch–Phenolic Complexes: Contributions of Phenolic Type, Plasma-Activated Water, and Ultrasonication
Authors: Chumsri Paramee , Panpipat Worawan , Cheong Ling-Zhi , Nisoa Mudtorlep , Chaijan Manat
Published: November 2022

A thorough investigation of the viability of rice starch conjugation with three different phenolic compounds—gallic acid, sinapic acid, and crude Mon-pu (Glochidion wallichianum Muell Arg) (MP) extract—was conducted using a variety of developed methods which modified the techno-functionality and digestibility of the end product. With and without the aid of ultrasonication (US), phenolic compounds were complexed with hydrothermally pre-gelatinized rice starch prepared using distilled water or plasma-activated water (PAW). The in vitro digestibility, structural features, rheological and thermal properties, and in vitro antioxidant activity of starch–phenolic complexes were evaluated. The US-assisted starch–MP complex in water had the highest complexing index (CI) value (77.11%) and resistant starch (RS) content (88.35%), resulting in a more compact and stable ordered structure. In all complexes, XRD revealed a new minor crystalline region of V-type, which was stabilized by hydrogen bonding as defined by FTIR and H1-NMR. Polyphenols caused a looser gel structure of starch, as imaged by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Starch–phenolic complexes outperformed other complexes in terms of in vitro antioxidant activity. Gallic acid addition to starch molecules boosted DPPH scavenging activity, notably when synthesized in PAW regardless of US assistance, although having lower CI and RS values than the MP complex. Therefore, this research lays the groundwork for the efficient production of functional food ingredients based on rice starch and polyphenols.
Role of Intramuscular Connective Tissue in Water Holding Capacity of Porcine Muscles
Authors: Wang Jingfan , Yang Ping , Han Dong , Huang Feng , Li Xia , Song Yu , Wang Hang , Liu Jiqian , Zheng Jian , Zhang Chunhui
Published: November 2022

Background: This study evaluated the influence of intramuscular connective tissue (IMCT) on structural shrinkage and water loss during cooking. Longissimus thoracis (LT), semimembranosus (SM) and semitendinosus (ST) muscles were cut and boiled for 30 min in boiling water, followed by detection of water holding capacity (WHC), tenderness, fiber volume shrinkage and protein denaturation. Results: Compared with LT and SM, ST had the best WHC and lowest WBSF and area shrinkage ratio. The mobility of immobilized water (T22) was key to holding the water of meat. ST contained the highest content of total and heat-soluble collagen. On the contrary, ST showed the lowest content of cross-links and decorin, which indicate the IMCT strength of ST is weaker than the other two. The heat-soluble collagen is positively correlated to T22. Conclusions: The shrinkage of heat-insoluble IMCT on WHC and WBSF may partly depend on the structural strength changes of IMCT components rather than solely caused by quantitative changes of IMCT.
A Scientometric Review of Grain Storage Technology in the Past 15 Years (2007–2022) Based on Knowledge Graph and Visualization
Authors: Chen Guixiang , Hou Jia , Liu Chaosai
Published: November 2022

Food storage helps to ensure the food consumption needs of non-agricultural populations and to respond to major natural disasters or other emergencies, and the application of food storage technology can reduce post-harvest food losses. However, there are still obvious shortcomings in coping with large grain losses. Therefore, quantitative analysis of the research hotspots and evolutionary trends of grain storage technology is important to help the development of grain storage technology. This article uses the Web of Science database from 2007 to 2022 as a data sample with the help of CiteSpace software to analyze the basic situation, research hotspots, and evolutionary trends to draw a series of relevant knowledge maps. Visual analysis revealed that the number of publications had grown rapidly since 2015. First, the Journal of Stored Products Research, Journal of Economic Entomology, and Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, with citation frequencies of 929, 536, and 453, should be focused on in order to keep up with the latest research developments in this field. The United States, China, and Brazil occupy dominant positions in relation to grain storage technology studies in general. Purdue University, Kansas State University, and Agricultural Research Institute ranked the top three in terms of the number and centrality of publications. In terms of research hotspots, the centrality of temperature, insects, carbon dioxide, and quality were 0.16, 0.09, 0.08, and 0.08. It shows that the field of grain storage technology in recent years has focused on grain storage temperature, pest control, and grain storage quality research. From the perspective of the evolution trend, the life cycle of emergent words lasts for several years, after which the strength of emergent words slowly decreases and is replaced by new emergent words. Mortality was the first keyword to appear and remained from 2007 to 2011, indicating that research on fumigants and their toxicity, as well as pest mortality under air fumigation and chemical fumigation conditions, became more popular during this period. In recent years, new terms have emerged that had never been used before, such as “grain quality” (2019–2022) and “stability” (2020–2022). We can find that people pursue food quality more with the improvement of people’s living standards. In this context, future research should seek more efficient, safe, economical, and environmentally friendly methods of grain storage and continuously improve the level of scientific grain storage.
Physicochemical, Thermal, and Morphological Properties of Chitosan Nanoparticles Produced by Ionic Gelation
Authors: Alehosseini Elham , Shahiri Tabarestani Hoda , Kharazmi Mohammad Saeed , Jafari Seid Mahdi
Published: November 2022

Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) can be widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors due to their high performance, unique properties, and high surface area. In this research, CSNPs were produced by the ionic gelation method and using sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) as an appropriate technique compared to the conventional methods. To evaluate the effects of various factors on the size, zeta potential (ZP), and optimal synthesis conditions, different concentrations of CS (1, 3, and 5 mg/mL), STPP (0.5, 0.75, and 1 mg/mL), and CS to STPP ratio (1:1, 3:1, and 5:1) were applied and optimized using the response surface methodology. The size of CSNPs was increased by using higher concentrations of CS, STPP, and CS/STPP ratios. The value of ZP was determined positive and it increased with increasing CS concentrations and CS/STPP ratios. ATR-FTIR spectra revealed interactions between CS and STPP. The DSC thermogram of CSNPs showed a double sharp endothermic peak at about 74.5 °C (ΔH = 122.00 J/g); further, the TGA thermograms indicated the total weight loss of STPP, CS, and CSNPs as nearly 3.30%, 63.60%, and 52.00%, respectively. The XRD data also revealed a greater chain alignment in the CSNPs. Optimized, the CSNPs can be used as promising carriers for bioactive compounds where they also act as efficient stabilizers in Pickering emulsions.
pH Responsive Hydrogels for the Delivery of Capecitabine: Development, Optimization and Pharmacokinetic Studies
Authors: Rehman Umaira , Sarfraz Rai Muhammad , Mahmood Asif , Akbar Shehla , E. Altyar Ahmed , Khinkar Roaa M. , Gad Heba A.
Published: November 2022

The objective of the current study was to achieve a sustained release profile of capecitabine (CAP), an anticancer agent frequently administered in conventional dosage form due to its short plasma half-life. A drug-loaded smart pH responsive chitosan/fenugreek-g-poly (MAA) hydrogel was synthesized by an aqueous free radical polymerization technique. The developed network was evaluated for capecitabine loading %, swelling response, morphology, structural and compositional characteristics, and drug release behavior. Significantly higher swelling and in vitro drug release rate were exhibited by formulations at pH 7.4 than at pH 1.2, demonstrating the pH responsive character of hydrogels. Swelling percentage and CAP loading ranged within 74.45–83.54% and 50.13–72.43%, respectively. Maximum release, up to 93%, was demonstrated over 30 h, evidencing the controlled release pattern of CAP from hydrogels. The optimized formulation was further screened for acute oral toxicity studies. No signs of oral, dermal, or ocular toxicities were noticed, confirming safety evidence of the network. Furthermore, pharmacokinetic analysis demonstrated the sustained release response of CAP from hydrogels as confirmed by a significant increase in plasma half-life (t1/2) (13 h) and AUC (42.88 µg h/mL) of CAP. Based on these findings, fabricated hydrogels are strongly recommended as a biocompatible carrier for colorectal delivery of active agents.
Study on the Socio-Economic Impact of Cancer Disease on Cancer Patients and Their Relatives
Authors: Garcia Martin Alberto , Fernandez Rodriguez Eduardo J. , Sanchez Gomez Celia , Rihuete Galve Maria I.
Published: November 2022

Background: Cancer is one of the most relevant social and health problems in the world. The disease entails additional costs for cancer patients and their families that are not covered by the public part of our welfare state, and which they assume themselves simply because they are ill. The main objective of this study is to identify and analyse the additional cost and socioeconomic impact of cancer disease on patients diagnosed with cancer disease and their families. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional randomised observational epidemiological study without replacement with prevalence of cancer disease in the study base, carried out in the Medical Oncology Service of the Complejo Asistencial Universitario de Salamanca (CAUSA), Spain. Results: The study variable has been the additional cost of the cancer disease for cancer patients and their families that is not covered by our autonomous health system. Conclusions: Cancer disease entails an additional cost for the patient and family; more specifically, for 55% of the patients in the study sample, the diagnosis of cancer represents extra expenditure of between 8.38–9.67% of their annual income. Furthermore, the disability and dependence of patients does not represent an additional cost due to their levels of functionality, but it can have repercussions on the future cost of the evolution of the disease, in addition to the fact of having cancer.
Fractional CO2 Laser versus Fractional Radiofrequency for Skin Striae Treatment: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mendes Nuno , Alves Paulo Jorge , Barros Mafalda , Machado Jorge
Published: November 2022

Striae are common dermal lesions associated with physiological and psychological alterations, affecting the quality of life. This proposed randomized controlled trial protocol will evaluate the clinical efficacy and treatment safety of fractional CO2 laser versus fractional radiofrequency (FRF) in clinical trials. We will randomly allocate 60 subjects who present abdominal striae into two different groups for the treatment, which will be performed once a month for a 3-month period. The results will be assessed by quartile scoring criteria; by comparing digital photos taken before and after each treatment; and also, by the measurement of cutaneous temperature, skin pH, and elasticity before and after the treatment. This paper describes the rationale and the design of the randomized controlled trial, which may provide evidence for clinical application of the methodology and the quality related to the efficacy and safety of fractional CO2 laser versus the FRF protocol for striae treatment.
Mutual Augmentation of Spectral Sensing and Machine Learning for Non-Invasive Detection of Apple Fruit Damages
Authors: Shurygin Boris , Smirnov Igor , Chilikin Andrey , Khort Dmitry , Kutyrev Alexey , Zhukovskaya Svetlana , Solovchenko Alexei
Published: November 2022

Non-invasive techniques for the detection of apple fruit damages are central to the correct operation of sorting lines ensuring storability of the collected fruit batches. The choice of optimal method of fruit imaging and efficient image processing method is still a subject of debate. Here, we have dissected the information content of hyperspectral images focusing on either spectral component, spatial component, or both. We have employed random forest (RF) classifiers using different parameters as inputs: reflectance spectra, vegetation indices (VIs), and spatial texture descriptors (local binary patterns, or LBP), comparing their performance in the task of damage detection in apple fruit. The amount of information in raw hypercubes was found to be over an order of magnitude excessive for the end-to-end problem of classification. Converting spectra to vegetation indices has resulted in a 60-fold compression with no significant loss of information relevant for phenotyping and more robust performance with respect to varying illumination conditions. We concluded that the advanced machine learning approaches could be more efficient if complemented by spectral information about the objects in question. We discuss the potential advantages and pitfalls of the different approaches to the machine learning-based processing of hyperspectral data for fruit grading.
Understanding Dry and Wet Conditions in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta Using Multiple Drought Indices: A Case Study in Ca Mau Province
Authors: Minh Huynh Vuong Thu , Kumar Pankaj , Van Ty Tran , Duy Dinh Van , Han Tran Gia , Lavane Kim , Avtar Ram
Published: November 2022

Globally, hydrometeorological hazards have large impacts to agriculture output, as well as human well-being. With climate change derived increasing frequency of extreme weather conditions, the situation has becoming more severe. This study strives to evaluate both dry and wet conditions in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD), also known as the rice basket of the Southeast Asian region. Different meteorological parameters from the last three decades were used to develop drought indices for Ca Mau province to investigate their impact on agricultural output. For this purpose, the standard precipitation index (SPI), the agricultural rainfall index (ARI), and the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) were used in this study. Results highlight that Ca Mau has a peculiar characteristic of the whole VMD in that dry periods persist well into the wet season extending the duration of drought events. The role of storms, including tropical storms, and El Niño cannot be ignored as extreme events, which both change humidity, as well as rainfall. It is also found that the drought situation has caused significant damage to both rice and shrimp outputs in almost 6000 hectares. The assessment contributes to an improved understanding of the pattern of unpredictable rainfall and meteorological anomaly conditions in Ca Mau. The findings of this paper are important for both policymakers and practitioners in designing more robust plans for water resource management.
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Projects: A Study of Key Performance Indicators in Terms of DeFi Protocols’ Valuations
Authors: Metelski Dominik , Sobieraj Janusz
Published: November 2022

Decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols use blockchain-based tools to mimic banking, investment and trading solutions and provide a viable framework that creates incentives and conditions for the development of an alternative financial services market. In this respect, they can be seen as alternative financial vehicles that mitigate portfolio risk, which is particularly important at a time of increasing uncertainty in financial markets. In particular, some DeFi protocols offer an automated, low-risk way to generate returns through a “delta-neutral” trading strategy that reduces volatility. The main financial operations of DeFi protocols are implemented using appropriate algorithms, but unlike traditional finance, where issues of value and valuation are commonplace, DeFis lack a similar value-based analysis. The aim of this study is to evaluate relevant DeFi performance metrics related to the valuations of these protocols through a thorough analysis based on various scientific methods and to show what influences the valuations of these protocols. More specifically, the study identifies how DeFi protocol valuations depend on the total value locked and other performance variables, such as protocol revenue, total revenue, gross merchandise volume and inflation factor, and assesses these relationships. The study analyzes the valuations of 30 selected protocols representing three different classes of DeFi (i.e., decentralized exchanges, lending protocols and asset management) in relation to their respective performance measures. The analysis presented in the article is quantitative in nature and relies on Granger causality tests as well as the results of a fixed effects panel regression model. The results show that the valuations of DeFi protocols depend to some extent on the performance measures of these protocols under study, although the magnitude of the relationships and their directions differ for the different variables. The Granger causality test could not confirm that future DeFi protocol valuations can be effectively predicted by the TVLs of these protocols, while other directions of causality (one-way and two-way) were confirmed, e.g., a two-way causal relationship between DeFi protocol valuations and gross merchandise volume, which turned out to be the only variable that Granger-causes future DeFi protocol valuations.
The Global Pandemic, Laboratory of the Cashless Economy?
Authors: Srouji Jeremy , Torre Dominique
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on payment systems and preferences around the world, reducing the use of cash in favor of digital payment instruments and accelerating the discussion around the need for a central bank digital currency. This article presents the digital payments and cashless agenda before and after the pandemic, focusing on how the changing payments landscape has influenced the priorities and decisions of regulators, banks and other financial intermediaries, with regards to the future shape of payment systems. It finds that while the pandemic demonstrated the benefits associated with building an advanced, competitive and integrated digital payments eco-system, it has also brought to the forefront more fragmentation than convergence between payment systems in different regions of the world.
High-Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin T in Prediction and Diagnosis of Early Postoperative Hypoxemia after Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Lu Peng , Lu Xiaohu , Li Ben , Wang Chufan , Wang Xufeng , Ji Yumeng , Liu Zhaoyang , Li Xiangyu , Yi Chenlong , Song Meijuan , Wang Xiaowei
Published: November 2022

To investigate the relationship of preoperative high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) with early postoperative hypoxemia (EPH) following off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB). Records of patients undergoing OPCAB between 2018 and 2022 were reviewed. Baseline characteristics and postoperative arterial blood gas analysis were derived from the cardiovascular surgery electronic medical records. Preoperative hs-cTnT levels were measured routinely in all patients. Logistic regression analyses were performed to test the association of preoperative hs-cTnT with EPH. A total of 318 OPCAB patients were included, who had a preoperative hs-cTnT test available for review. Before surgery, 198 patients (62%) had a rise in hs-cTnT level (≥14 ng/L) and 127 patients (40%) had a more severe hs-cTnT level (≥25 ng/L). The preoperative hs-cTnT level was associated with EPH (odds ratio per ng/L, 1.86; 95% confidence interval 1.30–2.68; p < 0.001), prolonged intensive care unit stay (odds ratio, 1.58; 95% confidence interval 1.08–2.32; p = 0.019), and delayed extubating time (odds ratio, 1.63; 95% confidence interval 1.15–2.34; p = 0.007). On multivariable analysis, adjusted for BMI, hypertension, smoking status, serum creatinine, and cardiac function, preoperative hs-cTnT remained an independent factor associated with EPH. Elevation of hs-cTnT concentrations are significantly associated with EPH after OPCAB. Review of presurgical hs-cTnT concentration may help identify patients who would benefit from OPCAB to improve surgical risk assessment.