bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Breathing in Very Preterm Infants during Deferred Cord Clamping (DCC) Is Related to Gestational Age and Is Not Independently Associated with Important Neonatal Outcomes: A 5-Year Cohort Study
Authors: Meyer Michael P. , Nevill Elizabeth
Published: March 2024

Deferred cord clamping (DCC) has been associated with reduced mortality in preterm infants, and a period of at least 30 s has been recommended before clamping. However, preterm infants assessed as being in need of resuscitation have often had earlier cord clamping. In this study, we aimed to compare neonatal outcomes for preterm infants undergoing DCC who established early breathing movements compared to those who were not breathing. After a 5 yr recruitment period, we recently completed the ABC study, in which preterm infants <31 weeks undergoing 50 s of DCC who were not breathing by 15 s of age were randomised into two groups: one received intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) and the other was a standard group, which received no breathing support. The outcomes in the two groups were similar, and for the present analysis, the groups were combined. Infants in the ABC study were compared with the cohort excluded from the original ABC study because they were breathing by 15 s (called the Breathing Before Clamping or BBC group). There were significant differences in demographics between the ABC and BBC groups. Spontaneous preterm labour was more common in the BBC group, and these infants were more likely to be delivered vaginally. Gestational age and birth weight were significantly higher in the BBC group (p < 0.01). Soon after birth, Apgar scores were significantly higher in the BBC group, with a lower base deficit on first obtained blood gas, and a smaller proportion were intubated in the delivery room. Fewer BBC infants were hypothermic (<36.5 °C) on admission. Multivariate regression analysis indicated whether infants were breathing or not at 15 s of age was linked predominantly to gestation. Important neonatal outcomes and a composite of these outcomes (mortality, severe intraventricular haemorrhage, bronchopulmonary dysplasia) were not significantly different between the ABC and BBC groups (odds ratio for the composite outcome was 1.77 CI 0.84–3.76 corrected for gestation). For very preterm infants undergoing DCC, important neonatal outcomes were related to gestational age and not independently associated with early breathing. There was a small group (7% of total) who were deemed compromised at birth and did not undergo DCC. These infants had significantly worse neonatal outcomes.
Enhanced Biocompatibility and Osteogenic Property of Biodegradable Zn-0.5Li Alloy through Calcium–Phosphorus Coating
Authors: Xing Haotian , Tang Yunzhi , Fa Xinying , Zhang Hongyun , Shi Zhangzhi , Yao Shenglian , Wang Luning
Published: March 2024

Zinc and its alloys have garnered significant attention in the field of biological implantation due to their biodegradable, osteogenic, and mechanical properties. However, the degradation of zinc and its alloys always lead to an increase in local ion concentration, and the bare metal surfaces lack biocompatibility for implantation. To address these issues, a layer of calcium–phosphorus (CaP) coating was prepared on the surface of a Zn-0.5Li alloy. The micro-structure of the coating was observed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a white light interferometry microscope. The phases of the coatings were characterized through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The bonding strength between the coating and substrate was investigated using a scratch tester with a diamond stylus, and the corrosion properties were assessed using an electrochemical method. For the evaluation of biocompatibility and osteogenic properties, MC3T3-E1 cells were cultured on the coating. Live/dead staining and proliferation tests were performed to assess cell viability and growth. Cell adhesion morphology was observed with SEM, and the level of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the MC3T3-E1 cells cultured on the material surface was evaluated by ALP staining and activity measurement. The CaP coating on the zinc alloy surface improved the alloy’s biocompatibility and osteogenic property, and could be a promising surface modification option for a biodegradable zinc alloy.
Coating of Neural Electrodes with Platinum Nanoparticles Reduces and Stabilizes Impedance In Vitro and In Vivo in a Rat Model
Authors: Angelov Svilen D. , Rehbock Christoph , Ramesh Vaijayanthi , Heissler Hans E. , Alam Mesbah , Barcikowski Stephan , Schwabe Kerstin , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: March 2024

The efficacy of electrodes that are chronically implanted and used in the context of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for the treatment of neurological disorders critically depends on stable impedance. Platinum–iridium electrodes were coated with laser-generated platinum nanoparticle colloids (PtNPs) via electrophoretic deposition using pulsed direct currents (DC-EPD). Uncoated electrodes were used as controls. In vitro, electrodes were stimulated for four weeks in a 0.9% NaCl solution. For the in vivo (rats) study, coated electrodes were implanted in the left and uncoated control electrodes in the right subthalamic nucleus (STN). After two weeks of recovery, electrodes were stimulated for four weeks. Impedance measurements were conducted after each week of stimulation, both in vivo and in vitro. NP-coating resulted in a significant and long-lasting reduction in electrode impedance (p < 0.05) over four weeks of in vitro stimulation. Despite an initial increase in impedance after intracranial implantation, the impedance of the NP-coated electrodes was also reduced during in vivo stimulation over four weeks. NP-coated electrodes had a lower fluctuation of impedance during stimulation compared to uncoated electrodes both in vitro and in vivo (p < 0.05). Laser-generated PtNPs applied to electrodes by pulsed DC-EPD lead to lower and more stable electrode impedance during chronic stimulation, with the potential to enhance the performance of DBS systems during chronic use.
Topical Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Agonist Induces Molecular Alterations Enhancing Barrier Function and Water-Holding Capacity of the Human Stratum Corneum In Vivo
Authors: Darvin Maxim E. , Salazar Andrew , Schleusener Johannes , Lademann Jürgen , von Hagen Jörg
Published: March 2024

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) ligands modulate a variety of skin functions but are rarely used in cosmetics. The aim of this double-blind, placebo-controlled, in vivo study was to determine the effect of a topically applied 0.1% PPAR ligand on the composition and physiological parameters of the stratum corneum (SC). By comparing verum and placebo groups post-treatment, we demonstrate (via lipidomic analysis of tape strips) an unstatistically significant trend toward an increase in long-chain triacylglycerols (C50–C56) and medium- and long-chain ceramides (C42–C50) at the superficial SC. By comparing treated and untreated skin using confocal Raman microspectroscopy, we found that the changes in lipid composition in the verum group led to a significant increase in the number of trans conformers and orthorhombic organisation of lipids at the exemplary SC depth. An increase in unfolded states in the secondary and tertiary keratin structures results in an increased ability to bind water. The concentrations of tightly and strongly bound water increase, while weakly bound and unbound water decrease in the entire SC, indicating a transformation of water mobility to a state of increased hydrogen bonding. Thus, the topical PPAR ligands improve the water-holding capacity and the barrier function of the SC.
Correction: Lopresti, M. et al. The Crystal Structure of Calcium Sebacate by X-ray Powder Diffraction Data. Crystals 2023, 13, 261
Authors: Lopresti Mattia , Milanesio Marco , Palin Luca
Published: March 2024

In the original publication [...]
Prediction Models Using Decision Tree and Logistic Regression Method for Predicting Hospital Revisits in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Lin Shih-Jiun , Liu Cheng-Chi , Tsai David Ming Then , Shih Ya-Hsueh , Lin Chun-Liang , Hsu Yung-Chien
Published: March 2024

Hospital revisits significantly contribute to financial burden. Therefore, developing strategies to reduce hospital revisits is crucial for alleviating the economic impacts. However, this critical issue among peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients has not been explored in previous research. This single-center retrospective study, conducted at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi branch, included 1373 PD patients who visited the emergency room (ER) between Jan 2002 and May 2018. The objective was to predict hospital revisits, categorized into 72-h ER revisits and 14-day readmissions. Of the 1373 patients, 880 patients visiting the ER without subsequent hospital admission were analyzed to predict 72-h ER revisits. The remaining 493 patients, who were admitted to the hospital, were studied to predict 14-day readmissions. Logistic regression and decision tree methods were employed as prediction models. For the 72-h ER revisit study, 880 PD patients had a revisit rate of 14%. Both logistic regression and decision tree models demonstrated a similar performance. Furthermore, the logistic regression model identified coronary heart disease as an important predictor. For 14-day readmissions, 493 PD patients had a readmission rate of 6.1%. The decision tree model outperformed the logistic model with an area under the curve value of 79.4%. Additionally, a high-risk group was identified with a 36.4% readmission rate, comprising individuals aged 41 to 47 years old with a low alanine transaminase level ≤15 units per liter. In conclusion, we present a study using regression and decision tree models to predict hospital revisits in PD patients, aiding physicians in clinical judgment and improving care.
Fusion Imaging of Non-Invasive and Invasive Cardiac Electroanatomic Mapping in Patients with Ventricular Ectopic Beats: A Feasibility Analysis in a Case Series
Authors: Muça Matilda , Zubarev Stepan , Bastian Dirk , Walaschek Janusch , Buia Veronica , Rittger Harald , Dokuchaev Arsenii , Bayer Thomas , Vitali-Serdoz Laura
Published: March 2024

In patients with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), non-invasive mapping could locate the PVCs’ origin on a personalized 3-dimensional (3D) heart model and, thus, facilitate catheter ablation therapy planning. The aim of our report is to evaluate its accuracy compared to invasive mapping in terms of assessing the PVCs’ early activation zone (EAZ). For this purpose, non-invasive electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) was performed using the Amycard 01C system (EP Solutions SA, Switzerland) in three cases. In the first step, a multichannel ECG (up to 224 electrodes) was recorded, and the dominant PVCs were registered. Afterward, a cardiac computed tomography (in two cases) or magnetic resonance imaging (in one case) investigation was carried out acquiring non-contrast torso scans for 8-electrode strip visualization and contrast heart acquisition. For the reconstructed epi/endocardial meshes of the heart, non-invasive isochronal maps were generated for the selected multichannel ECG fragments. Then, the patients underwent an invasive electrophysiological study, and the PVCs’ activation was evaluated by a 3D mapping system (EnSite NavX Precision, Abbott). Finally, using custom-written software, we performed 3D fusion of the non-invasive and invasive models and compared the resulting isochronal maps. A qualitative analysis in each case showed the same early localization of the dominant PVC on the endocardial surface when comparing the non-invasive and invasive isochronal maps. The distance from the EAZ to the mitral or tricuspid annulus was comparable in the invasive/non-invasive data (36/41 mm in case N1, 73/75 mm in case N2, 9/12 mm in case N3). The area of EAZ was also similar between the invasive/non-invasive maps (4.3/4.5 cm2 in case N1, 7.1/7.0 cm2 in case N2, 0.4/0.6 cm2 in case N3). The distances from the non-invasive to invasive earliest activation site were 4 mm in case N1, 7 mm in case N2, and 4 mm in case N3. Such results were appropriate to trust the clinical value of the preoperative data in these cases. In conclusion, the non-invasive identification of PVCs before an invasive electrophysiological study can guide clinical and interventional decisions, demonstrating appropriate accuracy in the estimation of focus origin.
Optimizing Arterial Vessel Contrast in Portal Venous Phase with Virtual Monoenergetic Images from Photon-Counting Detector CT Scans of the Abdomen—First Clinical Experiences
Authors: Dillinger Daniel , Overhoff Daniel , Ayx Isabelle , Kaatsch Hanns L. , Hagen Achim , Schönberg Stefan O. , Waldeck Stephan
Published: March 2024

Background: Photon-counting detector (PCD) computed tomography (CT) allows for the reconstruction of virtual monoenergetic images (VMI) at different thresholds. Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate the optimal arterial contrast in portal venous (pv) scans regarding objective parameters and subjective image quality for different virtual keV levels. Methods: We identified 40 patients that underwent a CT scan with an arterial and pv phase on a PCD-CT (NAEOTOM alpha, Siemens Healthineers, Forchheim, Germany). The attenuation of abdominal arteries on pv phases was measured for different virtual keV levels in a monoenergetic+ application profile and for polychromatic (pc) arterial images. Two independent readers assessed subjective image quality, including vascular contrast in pv scans at different energy levels. Additionally, signal- and contrast-to-noise ratios (SNR and CNR) were measured. Results: Our results showed increasing arterial attenuation levels with decreasing energy levels in virtual monoenergetic imaging on pv scans with the highest attenuation at 40 keV, significantly higher than in the pc arterial phase (439 ± 97 HU vs. 360 ± 97, p < 0.001). Noise, SNR, and CNR were worse at this energy level (p < 0.001). Pv VMI showed less noise at energy levels above 70 keV (all p < 0.001). Subjective image quality was rated best at 70 keV, vascular contrast was best at 40 keV. Conclusions: Our research suggests that virtual monoenergetic images at 40 keV in Mono+ mode derived from a PCD-CT can be a feasible alternative to a true arterial phase for assessment of vessels with worse CNR and SNR.
Enhancing the Coupling of Real-Virtual Prototypes: A Method for Latency Compensation
Authors: Baumann Peter , Kotte Oliver , Mikelsons Lars , Schramm Dieter
Published: March 2024

Currently, innovations in mechatronic products often occur at the system level, requiring consideration of component interactions throughout the entire development process. In the earlier phases of development, this is accomplished by coupling virtual prototypes such as simulation models. As the development progresses and real prototypes of certain system components become available, real-virtual prototypes (RVPs) are established with the help of network communication. However, network effects—all of which can be interpreted as latencies in simplified terms—distort the system behavior of RVPs. To reduce these distortions, we propose a coupling method for RVPs that compensates for latencies. We present an easily applicable approach by introducing a generic coupling algorithm based on error space extrapolation. Furthermore, we enable online learning by transforming coupling algorithms into feedforward neural networks. Additionally, we conduct a frequency domain analysis to assess the impact of coupling faults and algorithms on the system behavior of RVPs and derive a method for optimally designing coupling algorithms. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the coupling method, we apply it to a hybrid vehicle that is productively used as an RVP in the industry. We show that the optimally designed and trained coupling algorithm significantly improves the credibility of the RVP.
A 96 dB DR Second-Order CIFF Delta-Sigma Modulator with Rail-to-Rail Input Voltage Range
Authors: Kim Juncheol , Jeon Neungin , Do Wonkyu , Jung Euihoon , Kim Hongjin , Park Hojin , Jang Young-Chan
Published: March 2024

A second-order delta-sigma modulator (DSM) is proposed for readout integrated circuits of sensor applications requiring a small area and low-power consumption. The proposed second-order CIFF DSM with the architecture of cascaded-of-integrator feedforward (CIFF) basically consists of two integrators, a 3-bit quantizer, data-weighted averaging (DWA) circuit, and clock generator. The use of the 3-bit quantizer instead of the single-bit quantizer reduces the size of the feedback capacitor in the first integrator. The 3-bit quantizer is designed based on a successive approximation register analog-to-digital converter for small area and low power implementation. Furthermore, the proposed second-order CIFF DSM has a single supply without an additional reference driver while having a wide analog input voltage range with rail to rail. The proposed second-order CIFF DSM, implemented using a 130 nm 1-poly 6-metal CMOS process with a supply of 1.5 V, has an area of 0.096 mm2. It has a sampling frequency of 500 kHz for the implementation of an input bandwidth of 2 kHz and an oversampling ratio of 125. The measured peak signal-to-noise and distortion ratio is approximately 90 dB when the differential analog input signal has a frequency of 353 Hz and an amplitude of 1.2 Vpp. The measured dynamic range is approximately 96.3 dB.
Comparison of Proton and Gamma Irradiation on Single-Photon Avalanche Diodes
Authors: Xun Mingzhu , Li Yudong , Liu Mingyu
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the effects of proton and gamma irradiation on reach-through single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) are investigated. The I–V characteristics, gain and spectral response of SPAD devices under proton and gamma irradiation were measured at different proton energies and irradiation bias conditions. Comparison experiments of proton and gamma irradiation were performed in the radiation environment of geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO) with two different radiation shielding designs at the same total ionizing dose (TID). The results show that after 30 MeV and 60 MeV proton irradiation, the leakage current and gain increase, while the spectral response decreases slightly. The leakage current degradation is more severe under the “ON”-bias condition compared to the “OFF”-bias condition, and it is more sensitive to the displacement radiation damage caused by protons compared to gamma rays under the same TID. Further analysis reveals that the non-elastic and elastic cross-section of protons in silicon is 1.05 × 105 times greater than that of gamma rays. This results in SPAD devices being more sensitive to displacement radiation damage than ionizing radiation damage. Under the designed shielding conditions, the leakage current, gain and spectral response parameters of SPADs do not show significant performance degradation in the orbit.
Promoting Unified Generative Framework with Descriptive Prompts for Joint Multi-Intent Detection and Slot Filling
Authors: Ma Zhiyuan , Qin Jiwei , Pan Meiqi , Tang Song , Mi Jinpeng , Liu Dan
Published: March 2024

Natural language understanding is a crucial aspect of task-oriented dialogue systems, encompassing intent detection (ID) and slot filling (SF). Conventional approaches for ID and SF solve the problems in a separate manners, while recent studies are now leaning toward joint modeling to tackle multi-intent detection and SF. Although the advancements in prompt learning offer a unified framework for ID and SF, current prompt-based methods fail to fully exploit the semantics of intent and slot labels. Additionally, the potential of using prompt learning to model the correlation between ID and SF in multi-intent scenarios remains unexplored. To address the issue, we propose a text-generative framework that unifies ID and SF. The prompt templates are constructed with label semantical descriptions. Moreover, we introduce an auxiliary task to explicitly capture the correlation between ID and SF. The experimental results on two benchmark datasets show that our method achieves an overall accuracy improvement of 0.4–1.5% in a full-data scenario and 1.4–2.7% in a few-shot setting compared with a prior method, establishing it as a new state-of-the-art approach.
Barrier-Function-Based Adaptive Fast-Terminal Sliding-Mode Control for a PMSM Speed-Regulation System
Authors: Che Xin , Ma Zelong , Qi Xinda , Li Wenxian , Niu Haipeng , Yan Changxiang
Published: March 2024

Barrier-function-based adaptive fast-terminal sliding-mode control approaches have been devised to enhance the precision of speed regulation of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs). Firstly, the speed loop utilizes fast-terminal sliding-mode control, which contributes to a faster convergence rate and enhances the robustness of the system. By adopting this control technique, the system can quickly reach the desired speed setpoint and effectively handle disturbances. Secondly, an adaptive law based on the barrier function is employed to adjust the control gain adaptively. The proposed adaptive law considers the magnitude of the disturbance and effectively mitigates chattering resulting from excessive switching gain. Unlike conventional control methods, the design of the adaptive fast-terminal sliding-mode control does not require attaining the upper limit of the lumped disturbances. Experimental results are presented to validate the proposed approach. These results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the conventional terminal sliding mode control technique in terms of handling both external and internal disturbances.
The Impact of the Amorphous-to-Crystalline Transition on the Upconversion Luminescence in Er3+-Doped Ga2O3 Thin Films
Authors: Liang Yuanlin , Chen Haisheng , Dong Dianmeng , Guo Jiaxing , Du Xiaona , Bian Taiyu , Zhang Fan , Wu Zhenping , Zhang Yang
Published: March 2024

Gallium oxide (Ga2O3) is an emerging wide bandgap semiconductor promising a wide range of important applications. However, mass production of high-quality crystalline Ga2O3 still suffers from limitations associated with poor reproducibility and low efficiency. Low-temperature-grown amorphous Ga2O3 demonstrates comparable performance with its crystalline counterparts. Lanthanide Er3+-doped Ga2O3 (Ga2O3: Er) possesses great potential for developing light-emitting devices, photodetectors, solid-state lasers, and optical waveguides. The host circumstance can exert a crystal field around the lanthanide dopants and strongly influence their photoluminescence properties. Here, we present a systematical study of the impact of amorphous-to-crystalline transition on the upconversion photoluminescence in Ga2O3: Er thin films. Through controlling the growth temperature of Ga2O3: Er films, the upconversion luminescence of crystalline Ga2O3: Er thin film is strongly enhanced over 100 times that of the amorphous Ga2O3: Er thin film. Moreover, the variation of photoluminescence reflects the amorphous-to-crystalline transformation of the Ga2O3: Er thin films. These results will aid further designs of favorable optoelectronic devices integrated with lanthanide-doped Ga2O3 thin films.
Active Energy Meters Tested in Realistic Non-Sinusoidal Conditions Recorded on the Field and Reproduced in Laboratory
Authors: Cultrera Alessandro , Germito Gabriele , Serazio Danilo , Galliana Flavio , Trinchera Bruno , Aprile Giulia , Chirulli Martino , Callegaro Luca
Published: March 2024

Metrological characterisation of static energy meters under realistic low power quality conditions is a basic requirement for proper grid control and fair energy billing. The paper reports about a new proposed methodology, where the meters are tested under conditions directly recorded at installation sites. The waveforms of voltages and currents are sampled using a portable instrument; they are reproduced in laboratory conditions with a phantom power generator, with a bandwidth covering up to the 40th harmonic. The recording site is a photovoltaic energy production facility, having a a nominal power of 50 kW, at the coupling section to the grid. These waveforms were then reproduced in the laboratory, and tested on different models of single- and three-phase commercial static energy meters; the models chosen represent both energy meters used by energy providers at the point of common-coupling, and also meters typically used for in-line monitoring by end users. The quantity of interest is the reading error of the measured energy, when tested with the conditions reproduced from the on-field measurements, in comparison with a reference meter. All tested energy meter models comply with the present international documentary standards, which require tests under low power quality conditions; nevertheless, there are models that show unacceptable errors (up to 25%) in the measurement of active energy when tested with the on-field recorded waveforms. This suggests that the standardised testing waveforms might, in some cases, be not fully representative of the actual conditions encountered in the field.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Combined Gas and Steam Propulsion System of Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier
Authors: Budiyanto Muhammad Arif , Putra Gerry Liston , Riadi Achmad , Andika Riezqa , Zidane Sultan Alif , Muhammad Andi Haris , Theotokatos Gerasimos
Published: March 2024

Various combinations of ship propulsion systems have been developed with low-carbon-emission technologies to meet regulations and policies related to climate change, one of which is the combined gas turbine and steam turbine integrated electric drive system (COGES), which is claimed to be a promising ship propulsion system for the future. The objective of this paper is to perform a techno-economic and environmental assessment of the COGES propulsion system applied to liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers. A propulsion system design for a 7500 m3 LNG carrier was evaluated through the thermodynamics approach of the energy system. Subsequently, carbon emissions and environmental impact analyses were carried out through a life cycle assessment based on the power and fuel input of the system. Afterwards, a techno-economic analysis was carried out by considering the use of boil-off gas for fuel and additional income from carbon emission incentives. The proposed propulsion system design produces 1832 kilowatts of power for a service speed of 12 knots with the total efficiency of the system in the range of 30.1%. The results of the environmental evaluation resulted an overall environmental impact of 10.01 mPts/s. The results of the economic evaluation resulted in a positive net present value and a logical payback period for investment within 8 years of operation. The impact of this result shows that the COGES has a promising technological commercial application as an environmentally friendly propulsion system. Last, for the economy of the propulsion system, the COGES design has a positive net present value, an internal rate return in the range of 12–18%, and a payback period between 6 and 8 years, depending on the charter rate of the LNG carrier.
Accumulative Heat Stress in Ruminants at the Regional Scale under Changing Environmental Conditions
Authors: Aurambout Jean-Philippe , Benke Kurt K. , O’Leary Garry J.
Published: March 2024

Environmental heat stress is implicated in various animal health issues in ruminants, including reproduction rates, mortality rates, and animal physical quality. During extremely hot weather, there is often no overnight equilibration of animal temperature with its cooling effect, and the accumulated heat load becomes an important factor in animal health for ruminants such as sheep. Using the heat load index (HLI), a heat load model is used as an indicator of heat stress on an hourly basis and annually, using downscaling models for temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed, in both spatial and temporal cases, across several example sites in regional Victoria. Analysis is provided on the performance of the downscaling models and various adaptation and mitigation options are discussed and tested. These options include using different tree planting patterns to modify solar radiation exposure and wind effects, with mixed results because adding shading structures may also diminish the effect of wind-based cooling. The modelling experiments indicated that (1) heat stress is likely to increase under future climate conditions and could represent a serious threat to the health of small ruminants; (2) adaptation measures by means of tree planting to provide shade may not be sufficient to alleviate projected heat stress; and (3) other adaptation measures will need to be considered. Indicative results for heat stress under potential future environments are provided for 2030, 2050, and 2070. Also discussed is the performance of wind speed modelling, and the effect of heat stress on animal growth and ram fertility.
Temporal Evolution of Vehicle Exhaust Plumes in a Congested Street Canyon Environment
Authors: Chu Meng-Yuan , Brimblecombe Peter , Wei Peng , Liu Chun-Ho , Ning Zhi
Published: March 2024

Air pollutants from traffic make an important contribution to human exposure, with pedestrians likely to experience rapid fluctuation and high concentrations on the pavements of busy streets. This monitoring campaign was on Hennessy Road in Hong Kong, a densely populated city with deep canyons, crowded footpaths and low wind speeds. Kerbside NOx concentrations were measured using electrochemical sensors with baseline correction and subsequently deconvoluted to determine concentrations at 1-s resolution to study the dispersion of exhaust gases within the first few metres of their on-road source. The pulses of NOx from passing vehicles were treated as segments of a Gaussian plume originating at the tailpipe. The concentration profiles in segments were fit to a simple analytical equation assuming a continuous line source with R2 > 0.92. Least squares fitting parameters could be attributed to vehicle speed and source strength, dispersion, and sensor position. The width of the plume was proportional to the inverse of vehicle speed. The source strength of NOx from passing vehicles could be interpreted in terms of individual emissions, with a median value of approximately 0.18 g/s, but this was sensitive to vehicle speed and exhaust pipe position. The current study improves understanding of rapid changes in pollutant concentration in the kerbside environment and suggests opportunities to establish the contribution from traffic flow to pedestrian exposure in a dynamic heavily occupied urban microenvironment.
Distinct Short-Term Response of Intracellular Amino Acids in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia pastoris to Oxidative and Reductive Stress
Authors: Şirin Kaya Burcu , Nikerel Emrah
Published: March 2024

Despite being frequently encountered, the effect of oxidative or reductive stress on the intracellular metabolism and the response of the intracellular metabolome of yeasts is severely understudied. Non-conventional yeasts are attracting increasing attention due to their large substrate portfolio of non-canonical pathways as well as their production and secretion of proteins. To understand the effects of both stresses on yeast, the conventional model yeast S. cerevisiae and the non-conventional model yeast P. pastoris were perturbed with 5 mM of hydrogen peroxide for oxidative stress and 20 mM of dithiothreitol for reductive stress in well-defined chemostat cultures at a steady state, and fermentation profiles, intracellular amino acid levels, and intracellular glutathione levels were measured. Although stable profiles of extracellular metabolites were observed, significant changes were measured in intracellular amino acid levels within the first five minutes. Collectively, the amino acids ranged from 0.5 to 400 µmol/gDW, with the most significant increase upon the induction of oxidative stress being seen in cysteine (up to 90%) for S. cerevisiae and in aspartate (up to 80%) for P. pastoris. Upon the induction of reductive stress, asparagine nearly halves in S. cerevisiae, while tryptophan decreases by 60% in P. pastoris. By inspecting the time traces of each amino acid, possible mechanisms of pathway kinetics are speculated. This work furthers our understanding of the response of metabolism to oxidative stress in two model yeasts.
Research Progress in Understanding the Molecular Biology of Cordyceps militaris
Authors: Wang Lihong , Li Ganghua , Tian Xueqin , Shang Yitong , Yan Huanhuan , Yao Lihua , Hu Zhihong
Published: March 2024

Cordyceps militaris (C. militaris) is a valued medicinal fungus that can be traced back thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Both TCM and modern scientific research have confirmed the positive effects of C. militaris on human health. In recent years, C. militaris has gained wide popularity; unfortunately, strains often degrade during cultivation, resulting in a decline in fruiting bodies and active components that negatively impacts the development of C. militaris in the health food and medicine industries. This review summarizes the current progresses in research on the genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and genetic manipulation of C. militaris and discusses its primary metabolites and strain degradation mechanisms. The current challenges and future prospects of C. militaris research are also discussed.
Co-Gasification of Pistachio Shells with Wood Pellets in a Semi-Industrial Hybrid Cross/Updraft Reactor for Producer Gas and Biochar Production
Authors: Ryšavý Jiří , Čespiva Jakub , Kuboňová Lenka , Dej Milan , Szramowiat-Sala Katarzyna , Molchanov Oleksandr , Niedzwiecki Lukasz , Yan Wei-Mon , Thangavel Sangeetha
Published: March 2024

The possibilities of pistachio shell biochar production on laboratory-scale gasification and pyrolysis devices have been described by several previous studies. Nevertheless, the broader results of the pistachio shell co-gasification process on pilot-scale units have not yet been properly investigated or reported, especially regarding the detailed description of the biochar acquired during the routine operation. The biochar was analysed using several analytical techniques, such as ultimate and proximate analysis (62%wt of C), acid–base properties analysis (pH 9.52), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (the presence of –OH bonds and identification of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin), Raman spectroscopy (no determination of Id/Ig ratio due to high fluorescence), and nitrogen physisorption (specific surface 50.895 m2·g−1). X-ray fluorescence analysis exhibited the composition of the main compounds in the biochar ash (32.5%wt of Cl and 40.02%wt of Na2O). From the energy generation point of view, the lower heating value of the producer gas achieved 6.53 MJ·m−3 during the co-gasification. The relatively high lower heating value of the producer gas was mainly due to the significant volume fractions of CO (6.5%vol.), CH4 (14.2%vol.), and H2 (4.8 %vol.), while hot gas efficiency accomplished 89.6%.
Molecular Characterisation of Post-Fire Naturally Regenerated Populations of Maritime Pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.) in the North of Portugal
Authors: Carvalho Ana , Ribeiro Stéphanie , Gaspar Maria João , Fonseca Teresa , Lima-Brito José
Published: March 2024

Wildfires act as a selection force threatening the sustainability and diversity of forest genetic resources. Few studies have investigated the genetic effects of forest wildfires. Species with perennial canopy seed banks in serotinous cones and soil or with long-distance seed and pollen dispersion can preserve genetic diversity and population differentiation under normal fire regimes. To test this hypothesis, we characterised molecularly Pinus pinaster Aiton (maritime pine) seedlings produced from seeds sampled in post-fire, naturally regenerated populations that had been subject to different fire regimes in the North of Portugal using inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSRs). The sampled populations burned once (A), twice (B), or three (D) times or had no prior fire history (C, control). Given the globally low seed germination ability, only 104 plantlets regenerated and were described. These plantlets were grouped according to their origin population. Intra-group ISSR polymorphism ranged from 72.73% (B) to 89.41% (D), revealing genetic differentiation among groups originating from populations that had experienced different fire recurrence. Overall, the unaffected genetic diversity of the regenerated plantlets allowed us to accept the hypothesis. Our findings enhance our understanding of the species ability to withstand fire-induced challenges and their responses to wildfires, guiding conservation endeavours and forest management strategies to bolster ecosystem resilience.
Assessing the Accuracy of the Wildland–Urban Interface Index in Portuguese Rural Villages’ Context: A Case Study of the 2017 Pedrógão Grande Wildfire
Authors: Silva Dener , Ferreira Tiago Miguel , Rodrigues Hugo
Published: March 2024

Climate change and human interventions can boost wildfires. Although naturally happening, massive events are becoming more frequent and severe. In Portugal’s mainland, many rural settlements are populated mainly by older people, and uninhabited houses are frequently poorly conserved. This combination leaves the Wildland–Urban Interface (WUI) dangerously exposed to the fires. Pursuing the understanding of WUI areas, this study applies the Wildland–Urban Interface Index (WUIX) assessment methodology to an area severely affected by the massive 2017 wildfire of Pedrógão Grande, Leiria, Portugal. The primary objective of this study was to compare the results from WUIX with the areas burned during the fire event. As a result, maps of WUI effect were generated, visually pointing to villages with higher severity compared to the others. A statistical analysis was performed in three villages from the region to validate the results by comparing the accuracy of the results obtained to the actual damages. The results point out a high correlation between the WUIX and the real scenario despite the apparent challenges in determining the variations in different types of fire effect. Finally, the WUIX results align with the data from the Pedrógão Grande wildfire, showing that some are promising in conjunction with other wildfire indicators.
Winemaking Technologies for the Production of Cabernet Sauvignon and Feteasca Neagra Wines Enriched with Antioxidant Active Principles Due to the Addition of Melatonin
Authors: Eremia Sandra A. V. , Albu Camelia , Radu Gabriel-Lucian , Alecu Andreia , Stoica Alice G. , Brinduse Elena
Published: March 2024

In recent years, various studies have been carried out to increase the concentration of antioxidant active principles in red wines as a consequence of the effects of winemaking techniques on the polyphenols content. In this study, in order to obtain the most optimal wine in terms of content and efficiency of antioxidant activity, various winemaking technologies (punching-down and pumping-over maceration) were tried with diverse gradations (Feteasca Neagra and Cabernet Sauvignon wines) and the addition of different concentrations of melatonin in must. Suitable HPLC and spectrophotometric methods were used to follow the evolution of the antioxidant compounds from wines during aging (for 12 months). After comparing the acquired results, an increase was observed in the antioxidant compound concentrations, particularly in resveratrol (85%), peonidin-3-glucoside (100%) or cyanidin-3-glucoside (100%), and antioxidant activity (10–40%). The most enriched wine was obtained in the case of Feteasca Neagra by the addition of 0.5 mg of melatonin per 1 kg of must using the punch-down technology and, in the case of Cabernet Sauvignon, by the addition of 0.05 mg of melatonin per 1 kg of must using the pumping-over technique. This study can provide winemakers with an approach to enhance red wines with antioxidant compounds.
Preparation, Biological Activities, and Potential Applications of Hen Egg-Derived Peptides: A Review
Authors: Song Li , Chen Yi , Liu Huiping , Zhang Xiaowei
Published: March 2024

Food-derived peptides have been extensively studied for their benefits in humans. Hen eggs, characterized by high protein and digestibility, are an excellent source of food-derived bioactive peptides. This review summarizes the preparation methods, purification, and identification of hen egg-derived peptides (HEPs). The preparation methods mainly include enzymatic hydrolysis, microbial fermentation, and chemical synthesis. Genetic engineering is an emerging trend of HEP preparation. Then, we summarize the biological activities of HEPs, such as antioxidant activities, enzyme inhibitory activity, and antibacterial activity, of which the enzyme inhibitory activity is comprehensively summarized for the first time. The structure–activity relationship and underlying mechanism of the HEPs are further elucidated. Finally, the applications, future challenges, and opportunities of HEPs were mainly discussed in the food and non-food sectors. We focus on the potential applications of HEPs in intestinal health and assembly delivery and provide a reference for the further utilization and commercial development of HEPs.
Impacts of COVID-19 on Food Choices and Eating Behavior among New Zealand University Students
Authors: McCormack Jessica C. , Peng Mei
Published: March 2024

Extensive research suggests that COVID-19 infection can lead to persistent changes in taste and smell perception. These sensory changes have the potential to exert lasting impacts on dietary choices, nutrition, and body weight. This study aims to explore COVID-related shifts in dietary intake among New Zealand university students. We conducted a survey involving 340 university students who had experienced COVID-19 infection between 2022 and 2023. Participants reported any changes in eating behavior since before the pandemic and were asked to complete a 24-h food record. Participants’ total daily energy intake, macronutrient intake, and composition were then compared with data collected from a similar cohort before the COVID-19 pandemic, spanning from 2017 to 2019. Dietary outcomes were compared using MANCOVA while controlling for individual age, gender, ethnicity, and BMI. Approximately 25% of participants reported experiencing sensory alterations with COVID-19, with those participants more likely to report changes in their experience of sweet tastes but not salty or fatty foods. Analyses of the pre- and post-COVID cohorts revealed that participants in the post-COVID group exhibited significantly higher consumption of protein and sodium. Understanding the long-term impact of COVID-19 infection may offer crucial insights into the role of chemosensory perception in dietary behavior.
UV-C Treatment Impact on the Availability of Water-Soluble Carbohydrates, Polyphenols, and Antioxidant Capacity of an Algerian Underutilized Date Fruit (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
Authors: Djaoud Kahina , De la Peña-Armada Rocío , García-Alonso Alejandra , Correcher Virgilio , Boulekbache-Makhlouf Lila , Mateos-Aparicio Inmaculada
Published: March 2024

Underutilized dates are considered as a socioeconomically important fruit for local and global communities, such as Degla-Beida, a common date fruit variety. The aim of this research was to elucidate, for the first time, the efficiency of UV-C light treatment (over different irradiation durations 5, 10, 20, and 40 min) in the enhancement of soluble carbohydrates and phenolic compounds, and to evaluate its effect on the antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, the content of dietary fiber was analyzed: insoluble dietary fiber (11.89 g/100 g); soluble dietary fiber (5.15 g/100 g); and total dietary fiber (17.06 g/100 g). The techno-functional properties were also determined: swelling capacity (3.94 mL/g); oil holding capacity (7.38 g/g); water holding capacity (9.30 g/g); and bulk density (1.81 g/mL). All were carried out to study the potential of exploiting this underutilized fruit for other applications as for feed or food. The results suggest that UV-C technology changes minimally the total water-soluble carbohydrate content; however, this preservation technology can affect the availability of different soluble carbohydrates depending on the irradiation time (IT), increasing the high molecular weight polysaccharides with IT up to 20 min, and some oligosaccharides with IT up to 5 min. The polyphenolic content determined by HPLC-QTOF was increased when the samples were submitted to UV-C reaching the maximum at 20 min (111.62 mg/100 g) and then to decrease in those submitted to IT of 40 min (12.05 mg/100 g). Regarding antioxidant capacity in the UV-C treated samples, FRAP decreased and EC50 on DPPH increased when IT was increased, while ORAC was hardly maintained. In addition, considering UV-C radiation associated with preservation and the studied date fruit as a rich source of dietary fiber with adequate techno-functional properties, this study presents valuable information for its potential use as a new food ingredient.
Effects of Dill (Anethum graveolens) Essential Oil and Lipid Extracts as Novel Antioxidants and Antimicrobial Agents on the Quality of Beef Burger
Authors: Mujović Milo , Šojić Branislav , Peulić Tatjana , Kocić-Tanackov Sunčica , Ikonić Predrag , Božović Danica , Teslić Nemanja , Županjac Miloš , Novaković Saša , Jokanović Marija , Škaljac Snežana , Pavlić Branimir
Published: March 2024

Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) essential oil (DEO) obtained by hydrodistillation (HD) and lipid extracts (DSE1 and DSE2) obtained by supercritical CO2 extraction (SFE) were used as potential antioxidants and antimicrobial agents in beef burgers at two different concentrations (0.075 and 0.15 µL/g). The chemical profile of the lipid extracts and their in vitro antimicrobial activity against the common pathogens E. coli and L. monocytogenes (MIC and MBC) were determined. The quality and shelf life of the burgers were monitored through (lipid oxidation—TBARS test; protein oxidation—thiol group content and selected biogenic amine content) and microbiological quality (Enterobacteriaceae—EB, aerobic mesophilic bacteria—TAMB, lactic acid bacteria—LAB). Dill lipid extracts (DEO and DSE1) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced lipid oxidation and protein oxidation in beef burgers, while the lipid extract (DSE2) showed pro-oxidative effects. The strongest antimicrobial potential against EB was found in SFE1150 (1.15 log cfu/g). Putrescine, cadaverine, histamine, and tyramine were not detected in any of the analyzed samples during the storage period, while the total content of biogenic amines ranged from 21.4 mg/kg to 285 mg/kg. Generally, it can be concluded that dill essential oil (DEO) and extract DSE1 can be used as novel natural additives in minced-meat products.