bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lithium-Ion Battery State of Health Estimation Using Simple Regression Model Based on Incremental Capacity Analysis Features
Authors: Lin Kai-Rong , Huang Chien-Chung , Sou Kin-Cheong
Published: October 2023

Batteries are the core component of electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESSs), being crucial technologies contributing to carbon neutrality, energy security, power system reliability, economic efficiency, etc. The effective operation of batteries requires precise knowledge of the state of health (SOH) of the battery. A lack of proper knowledge of SOH may lead to the improper use of severely aged batteries, which may result in degraded system performance or even a risk of failure. This makes it important to accurately estimate battery SOH using only operational data, and this is the main topic of this study. In this study, we propose a novel method for online SOH estimation for batteries featuring simple online computation and robustness against measurement anomalies while avoiding the need for full cycle discharging and charging operation data. Our proposed method is based on incremental capacity analysis (ICA) to extract battery aging feature parameters and regression using simple piecewise linear interpolation. Our proposed method is compared with back-propagation neural network (BPNN) regression, a popular method for SOH estimation, in case studies involving actual data from battery aging experiments under realistic discharging and temperature conditions. In terms of accuracy, our method is on par with BPNN results (about 5% maximum relative error), while the simplicity of our method leads to better computation efficiency and robustness against data anomalies.
Lifecycle Analysis of Green Roofs in the Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Rashedi Mohammad Raoof , Ehsani Rojina , Kalantari Sara , Tehrani Fariborz M.
Published: October 2023

Buildings account for a significant amount of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Electricity and fossil fuels are currently the primary sources of energy used for cooling and heating buildings, depending on the climate and location. Both energy sources are responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, plants and vegetation absorb carbon dioxide and, thus, improve the quality of air. This effect indirectly influences climate change to lower energy demands and produce additional emissions due to rising energy consumption trends. Plants also reduce the ambient temperature by providing shade on roof surfaces. Hence, the large-scale deployment of green roofs reduces energy consumption, emissions, and costs. However, green roofs also impact the overall weight of a building and require additional construction costs. Therefore, the contribution of green roofs to the various structural and thermal performances of buildings varies for extensive intensive or semi-intensive systems. These interactions warranted a lifecycle analysis to optimize the extent of green roof applications. This approach highlighted sustainability performance measures, including energy, emissions, water, and waste. The presented study addressed a lifecycle analysis of green roof deployment during a hot summer in a Mediterranean climate zone. This climate applies to many areas that benefit from warming temperatures without extreme needs for cooling or heating. The emphasis on comparing two towns within the same climate zone facilitated a more detail-oriented approach to the lifecycle analysis. The results illustrated the energy consumption and associated release of greenhouse gas emissions related to structural and roofing materials and thermal operations throughout the service life of a building. The conclusions assessed the challenges and opportunities of green roof applications on new and existing buildings.
Drought and Salinity Tolerance of the PtWRKY33 Gene in Populus
Authors: Yang Chengjun , Jin Ming , Zhang Lei , Shen Jian , Guan Qingjie
Published: October 2023

In this study, the PtWRKY33 gene sequence was cloned by PCR from cDNA, and systematic evolutionary analysis was performed. qRT–PCR was performed to measure the expression of the PtWRKY33 gene in the roots, stems and leaves of Populus tremuloides under drought and saline stresses, and overexpression vectors were constructed and genetically transformed into tobacco. The results showed that the WRKY transcription factors of Populus trichocarpa, Populus euphratica and Populus alba were in the same branch and were closely related to each other. Treating poplar seedlings with 20% PEG6000 solution to simulate drought stress showed that expression of the PtWRKY33 gene was induced and increased 1.89 times, 3.45 times and 11.6 times in leaves, stems and roots. The relative expression of the PtWRKY33 gene was slower to respond to 150 mM NaCl treatment but was nonetheless induced. At 48 h, the increase was 1–3 times in leaves, stems and roots, respectively. NaHCO3 (60 mM) was used to treat poplar seedlings with alkaline salt stress; the results indicated that the PtWRKY33 gene was sensitive to NaHCO3 stress treatment, and that its relative expression was significantly increased and increased 10.51 times (24 h), 6.56 times (6 h) and 5.16 times (24 h) in leaves, stems and roots, respectively. In this study, we found that NaCl and NaHCO3 stress treatments were able to induce an increase in the expression of the NtSOD1 and NtAPX2 genes using qRT–PCR, and the significant increase in expression under the treatments compared with WT may be caused by overexpression of the PtWRKY33 gene. Overexpression of the PtWRKY33 gene in tobacco enhanced the antioxidant stress capacity and improved the salinity tolerance of transgenic tobacco. These results indicate that the PtWRKY33 gene is a key gene for improved salinity-tolerant growth, which is important for future molecular breeding of tree resistance.
Future Range Shifts Suggest That the Six-Spined Spruce Bark Beetle Might Pose a Greater Threat to Norway Spruce in Europe than the Eight-Spined Spruce Bark Beetle
Authors: Cao Runyao , Feng Jianmeng
Published: October 2023

Both the eight-spined spruce bark beetle (eight-spined beetle, Ips typographus) and the six-spined spruce bark beetle (six-spined beetle, Pityogenes chalcographus) have major deleterious effects on Norway spruce (i.e., Picea abies, the host tree) in Europe. However, future potential range shifts of the two pests and their range overlap with Norway spruce have not yet been characterized. Through range dynamic models, we characterized their future range expansions, as well as their range overlap with their host tree under current–future change scenarios in 2100. Host availability was the greatest contributor to the range shifts of the two pests, and climatic changes were the main drivers of the range expansion of the host. The potential range, expanded range, and overlapped range were larger for the six-spined beetle than for the eight-spined beetle. The host tree, i.e., Norway spruce, might face increasing threats from the two pests in the future. Future climate change will likely indirectly facilitate range shifts of pests by promoting increases in the area capable of sustaining the host tree. The six-spined beetle might pose a greater threat to Norway spruce than the eight-spined beetle, albeit the latter has previously been considered to have more deleterious effects on Norway spruce.
Inhibitory Effects of Saponin-Rich Extracts from Pouteria cambodiana against Digestive Enzymes α-Glucosidase and Pancreatic Lipase
Authors: Sanneur Kawisara , Leksawasdi Noppol , Sumonsiri Nutsuda , Techapun Charin , Taesuwan Siraphat , Nunta Rojarej , Khemacheewakul Julaluk
Published: October 2023

Pouteria cambodiana is a perennial plant that has a wide distribution in tropical regions. It is commonly referred to as ’Nom-nang’ in the northern region of Thailand. The bark of this plant has been used for the purpose of promoting lactation among breastfeeding mothers. Moreover, P. cambodiana bark has a high nutraceutical potential due to the presence of saponins, which are secondary metabolites. The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal conditions for ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of saponins from the bark of P. cambodiana and to assess the in vitro inhibitory activities of saponin-rich extracts. The most effective extraction conditions involved a temperature of 50 °C and a 50% concentration level of ethanol as the solvent, which allowed the extraction of saponin at a concentration of 36.04 mg/g. Saponin-rich extracts and their hydrolysates from P. cambodiana bark were evaluated for their ability to inhibit α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase. The IC50 values for saponin- and sapogenin-rich extracts inhibiting α-glucosidase were 0.10 and 2.98 mg/mL, respectively. Non-hydrolysed extracts also had a stronger inhibitory effect than acarbose. In the case of pancreatic lipase, only the hydrolysed extracts exhibited inhibitory effects on pancreatic lipase (IC50 of 7.60 mg/mL). Thus, P. cambodiana bark may be an applicable natural resource for preparing ingredients for functional products with inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase. The phenolic contents, saponin contents, and antioxidant activities of the dried extract stored at a low temperature of 25 °C for 2 months showed the best stability, with more than 90% retention.
Food-Drying Applications for Plant Products: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Miletić Nemanja , Nićetin Milica
Published: October 2023

Consumable plant products are seasonal and perishable items, generally only available in a fresh state for a few months each year [...]
Bay Leaves Extracts as Active Additive for Food Protective Coatings
Authors: Peña-Ortiz Manuel , Serrano Luis , Romero Antonio A. , García Araceli
Published: October 2023

Ethanolic extracts of bay leaves were obtained using the Soxhlet method (extraction yield of 22.3 ± 1.2%) and further analyzed through different methods, thus determining the chemical composition with gas chromatography, phenolic content with the Folin–Ciocalteu technique (11.8 ± 0.4% wt.) and antioxidant power with the radical 2,2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) method (75.06%). Furthermore, its effect on the growth of two bacteria, Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus, and on two yeasts, Candida glabrata and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, was determined, showing a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.65 mg/mL on the growth of B. cereus. Finally, edible films were prepared using different polymers (carboxymethyl cellulose, gum Arabic, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, and polyvinyl alcohol) containing 0, 5, 10, or 15% wt. of bay leaf extract as troubleshooting for perishable fruits, specifically for cultivated strawberry. The prepared composites presented reduced water vapor permeabilities (up to 4.3 × 10−7 g·Pa−1·m−1·h−1), high specific transparencies (≈30%/mm), as well as the effective blocking of ultraviolet radiation (>99.9%). In vivo tests showed that the most suitable treatment for strawberry protection was the impregnation with a composite comprising polyvinyl alcohol and a 15% wt. bay leaf extract, resulting in a noteworthy reduction in mass loss (22% after 6 days). It can be asserted that food packaging with the designed composites would be an effective alternative for the reduction in postharvest losses.
A Functional End-Use of Avocado (cv. Hass) Waste through Traditional Semolina Sourdough Bread Production
Authors: Viola Enrico , Buzzanca Carla , Tinebra Ilenia , Settanni Luca , Farina Vittorio , Gaglio Raimondo , Di Stefano Vita
Published: October 2023

In recent years, a main goal of research has been to exploit waste from agribusiness industries as new sources of bioactive components, with a view to establishing a circular economy. Non-compliant avocado fruits, as well as avocado seeds and peels, are examples of promising raw materials due to their high nutritional yield and antioxidant profiles. This study aimed to recycle avocado food waste and by-products through dehydration to produce functional bread. For this purpose, dehydrated avocado was reduced to powder form, and bread was prepared with different percentages of the powder (5% and 10%) and compared with a control bread prepared with only semolina. The avocado pulp and by-products did not alter organoleptically after dehydration, and the milling did not affect the products’ color and retained the avocado aroma. The firmness of the breads enriched with avocado powder increased due to the additional fat from the avocado, and alveolation decreased. The total phenolic content of the fortified breads was in the range of 2.408–2.656 mg GAE/g, and the antiradical activity was in the range of 35.75–38.235 mmol TEAC/100 g (p < 0.0001), depending on the percentage of fortification.
Assessing Leadership Capacity in the Food System: The Issue Leadership Scale
Authors: Lamm Kevan W.
Published: October 2023

The food system represents a complex, interrelated, and interdependent network of individuals and organizations. Despite the unique characteristics of the food system domain, there has never been a comprehensive analysis of leadership capacity amongst food system professionals. The present study provides an empirical assessment of food system leadership capacity using many leadership instruments. The study included pilot (n = 125) and primary (n = 4185) data collection across 27 food system-related leadership development programs. The results validate the Issue Leadership scale, which comprises seven capacity areas: action, change, communication, critical thinking, strategic planning and visioning, interpersonal traits and characteristics, leadership process, and leadership skills. The Issue Leadership scale captures both perception of importance and current skill level. The study results indicate that food system professionals perceived communication and critical thinking, strategic planning and visioning as the most important leadership capacity areas. Furthermore, respondents indicated the highest level of self-perceived skill in critical thinking, strategic planning and visioning, and interpersonal traits and characteristics. Overall, respondents had higher perceived importance levels (m = 4.17) than skill (m = 3.44), indicating the need for additional leadership capacity development amongst food system professionals. Respondents also indicated similar levels of opinion leadership (m = 3.92), servant leadership (m = 3.82), transformational leadership (m = 3.78), and transactional leadership (m = 3.70), providing an additional empirical assessment of food system professional leadership capacity.
Risk Assessment and Determination of Arsenic and Heavy Metals in Fishery Products in Korea
Authors: Kim Do-Yeong , Jeon Hyewon , Shin Han-Seung
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to quantify several heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, Me-Hg, and metalloid arsenic) contained in Korean fishery products (seven categories, 1186 samples) and assess their health risk. Heavy metals quantification was conducted using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and a direct mercury analysis (DMA). The good linearity (R2 > 0.999), limits of detection (1.0–3.2 µg/kg), limits of quantification (3.1–9.6 µg/kg), accuracy (88.14–113.80%), and precision (0.07–6.02%) of the five heavy metals were obtained, and these results meet the criteria recommended by the AOAC. The average heavy metal concentrations of fishery products were in the following order: As > Cd > Pb > Hg > Me-Hg for sea algae, crustaceans, mollusks, and echinoderms, As > Hg > Me-Hg > Pb > Cd for freshwater fish and marine fish, and As > Pb > Cd > Hg > Me-Hg for tunicates. Heavy metal concentrations were lower than MFDS, EU, CODEX, and CFDA standards. In addition, the exposure, non-carcinogenic, and carcinogenic evaluation results, considering the intake of aquatic products for Koreans, were very low. It was concluded that this study will provide basic data for food safety and risk assessment.
Effect of Thermostable Enzymes Produced by Psychrotrophic Bacteria in Raw Milk on the Quality of Ultra-High Temperature Sterilized Milk
Authors: Qin Xue , Cheng Jingqi , Qi Xuehe , Guan Ning , Chen Qing , Pei Xiaoyan , Jiang Yujun , Yang Xinyan , Man Chaoxin
Published: October 2023

Ultra-high temperature sterilized milk (UHT) is a popular dairy product known for its long shelf life and convenience. However, protein gel aging and fat quality defects like creaming and flavor deterioration may arise during storage. These problems are primarily caused by thermostable enzymes produced by psychrotrophic bacteria. In this study, four representative psychrotrophic bacteria strains which can produce thermostable enzymes were selected to contaminate UHT milk artificially. After 11, 11, 13, and 17 weeks of storage, the milk samples, which were contaminated with Pseudomonas fluorescens, Chryseobacterium carnipullorum, Lactococcus raffinolactis and Acinetobacter guillouiae, respectively, demonstrated notable whey separation. The investigation included analyzing the protein and fat content in the upper and bottom layers of the milk, as well as examining the particle size, Zeta potential, and pH in four sample groups, indicating that the stability of UHT milk decreases over time. Moreover, the spoiled milk samples exhibited a bitter taste, with the dominant odor being attributed to ketones and acids. The metabolomics analysis revealed that three key metabolic pathways, namely ABC transporters, butanoate metabolism, and alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, were found to be involved in the production of thermostable enzymes by psychrotrophic bacteria. These enzymes greatly impact the taste and nutrient content of UHT milk. This finding provides a theoretical basis for further investigation into the mechanism of spoilage.
Optimizing the Integration of Microwave Processing and Enzymatic Extraction to Produce Polyphenol-Rich Extracts from Olive Pomace
Authors: Macedo Gabriela A. , Barbosa Paula de P. M. , Dias Fernanda F. G. , Crawford Lauren M. , Wang Selina C. , Bell Juliana M. L. N. De Moura
Published: October 2023

The integration of green technologies such as microwave- and enzyme-assisted extraction (MEAE) has been shown to improve the extraction efficiency of bioactive compounds while reducing processing time and costs. MEAE using tannase alone (MEAE-Tan), or in combination with cellulase and pectinase (MEAE-Tan-Cel-Pec), was optimized to produce enriched phenolic and antioxidant extracts from olive pomace. The individual and integrated impact of enzyme concentration, temperature, and pomace/water ratio were determined using a central composite rotatable design. Optimal extraction conditions for MEAE-Tan (60 °C, 15 min, 2.34% of enzyme (w/w), and 1:15 pomace/water ratio) and MEAE-Tan-Cel-Pec (46 °C, 15 min, 2% of enzymes (w/w), in the proportion of 1:1:1, and 1:20 pomace/water ratio) resulted in extracts containing 7110.6 and 2938.25 mg GAE/kg, respectively. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was correlated with phenolic acid release, which was enzyme-dependent, as determined with HPLC-DAD analysis. Enzyme selection had a significant impact on the phenolic profile of extracts, with tannase releasing high concentrations of chlorogenic acid and the combined use of enzymes releasing high concentrations of hydroxytyrosol and chlorogenic and ferulic acids. The novelty of this study relies on the integration and optimization of two green technologies (microwave- and enzyme-assisted extraction) to improve the extraction efficiency of bioactive phenolics from olive pomace while reducing processing time and costs. While these techniques have been evaluated isolated, the benefits of using both processing strategies simultaneously remain largely unexplored. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the integration and processing optimization of two environmentally friendly technologies as a promising alternative to treat agro-industrial byproducts.
Comprehensive Analyses of Breads Supplemented with Tannic Acids
Authors: Guan Yanbin , Yang Xun , Pan Chuang , Kong Jie , Wu Ruizhe , Liu Xueli , Wang Yuesheng , Chen Mingjie , Li Miao , Wang Qiong , He Guangyuan , Yang Guangxiao , Chang Junli , Li Yin , Wang Yaqiong
Published: October 2023

Tannic acid (TA) has been recently considered as a new dough additive for improving the bread-making quality of wheat. However, the effects of TA supplementation on the sensory quality parameters (color, crumb grain structure, and sensory properties) of bread have not been studied. Further, the potential of TA supplementation in bread-making quality improvement has not been evaluated by using commercial flour. In the present study, three commercial wheat flours (namely, XL, QZG, and QZZ) with different gluten qualities were used to evaluate the effects of TA supplementation (in concentrations of 0.1% and 0.3%, respectively). TA supplementation did not change the proximate composition of the breads but increased the volumes and specific volumes of XL and QZG breads. TA supplementation enhanced antioxidant activities, with 0.3% TA significantly increasing the antioxidant capacities of bread made from all three flour samples by approximately four-fold (FRAP method)/three-fold (ABTS method). Positive effects of TA on the reduction in crumb hardness, gumminess, and chewiness were observed in the XL bread, as determined by the texture profile analysis. For the analyses on visual and sensory attributes, our results suggest that TA did not affect the crust color, but only slightly reduced the L* (lightness) and b* (yellowness) values of the crumb and increased the a* (redness) value. TA supplementation also increased the porosity, total cell area, and mean cell area. Satisfactorily, the sensory evaluation results demonstrate that TA-supplemented breads did not exhibit negative sensory attributes when compared to the non-TA-added breads; rather, the attributes were even increased. In summary, TA-supplemented breads generally had not only better baking quality attributes and enhanced antioxidant activities, but, more importantly, presented high consumer acceptance in multiple commercial flour samples. Our results support the commercial potential of TA to be used as a dough improver.
Distributed Adaptive Optimization Algorithm for Fractional High-Order Multiagent Systems Based on Event-Triggered Strategy and Input Quantization
Authors: Yang Xiaole , Yuan Jiaxin , Chen Tao , Yang Hui
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the distributed optimization problem (DOP) for fractional high-order nonstrict-feedback multiagent systems (MASs) where each agent is multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) dynamic and contains uncertain dynamics. Based on the penalty-function method, the consensus constraint is eliminated and the global objective function is reconstructed. Different from the existing literatures, where the DOPs are addressed for linear MASs, this paper deals with the DOP through using radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs) to approximate the unknown nonlinear functions for high-order MASs. To reduce transmitting and computational costs, event-triggered scheme and quantized control technology are combined to propose an adaptive backstepping neural network (NN) control protocol. By applying the Lyapunov stability theory, the optimal consensus error is proved to be bounded and all signals remain semi-global uniformly ultimately bounded. Simulation shows that all agents reach consensus and errors between agents’ outputs and the optimal solution is close to zero with low computational costs.
The Impact of Pedestrian Distraction on Safety Behaviours at Controlled and Uncontrolled Crossings
Authors: O’Dell Amy , Morris Andrew , Filtness Ashleigh , Barnes Jo
Published: October 2023

To investigate differences in the safety behaviours of distracted and non-distracted pedestrians crossing roads, an unobtrusive observational study was conducted in Leicestershire, UK. Video recordings were taken of 1409 pedestrians crossing roads at controlled and uncontrolled crossing sites, both on a university campus and in urbanised town centre locations. On average, 42% of pedestrians were visibly distracted while crossing, and distracted pedestrians demonstrated significantly fewer safety behaviours than non-distracted pedestrians. They generally took longer to cross the road and made fewer looks towards the traffic environment, particularly at controlled crossings. Of all distraction activities, talking to another pedestrian had the most negative impact on safety behaviours. The findings highlight areas requiring further investigation, including distraction behaviours such as engaging with other pedestrians and supervising children. The results also identify that controlled crossings may benefit from targeted interventions to improve pedestrian safety.
The Effects of Pectin–Honey Hydrogel in a Contaminated Chronic Hernia Model in Rats
Authors: Cerullo Anna , Giusto Gessica , Maniscalco Lorella , Nebbia Patrizia , von Degerfeld Mitzy Mauthe , Serpieri Matteo , Vercelli Cristina , Gandini Marco
Published: October 2023

Incisional hernia is a frequent complication after abdominal surgery. A previous study on rats evaluated the use of a Pectin–Honey Hydrogel (PHH)-coated polypropylene (PP) mesh for the healing of acute hernias. However, there are no studies investigating the use of PHH in association with PP mesh in chronic contaminated hernia. The aims of this study are to assess the effectiveness of PHH in promoting abdominal hernia repaired with PP mesh and in counteracting infection. Twenty Sprague Dawley male rats were enrolled and a full thickness defect was made in the abdominal wall. The defect was repaired after 28 days using a PP mesh, and a culture medium (Tryptone Soy Broth, Oxoid) was spread onto the mesh to contaminate wounds in both groups. The rats were randomly assigned to a treated or untreated group. In the treated group, a PHH was applied on the mesh before skin closure. At euthanasia—14 days after surgery—macroscopical, microbiological and histopathological evaluations were performed, with a score attributed for signs of inflammation. An immunohistochemical investigation against COX-2 was also performed. Adhesions were more severe (p = 0.0014) and extended (p = 0.0021) in the untreated group. Bacteriological results were not significantly different between groups. Both groups showed moderate to severe values (score > 2) in terms of reparative and inflammatory reactions at histopathological levels. The use of PHH in association with PP mesh could reduce adhesion formation, extension and severity compared to PP mesh alone. No differences in terms of wound healing, contamination and grade of inflammation were reported between groups.
On Being Too Close to It
Authors: Hromadžić Azra
Published: October 2023

This essay explores the dominant expectations of “objectivity” and “distance” that continue to penetrate classrooms and academic journals, and conferences and public spaces. In the process, I argue, they (re)produce everyday violences that stretch their slippery tentacles, keeping in suspension those who think, feel, write, and relate otherwise. In order to trace the lived effects of these processes, I focus here on several instances, their articulations and permutations, where I and those close to me were reminded, suspected, even accused—jokingly, scoldingly, teasingly, lovingly, and/or violently—of “being too close to it.” Here, “it” stands for a geographical location (“the field”), lived experience, and particular sensibility, struggle, and commitment that comes from being proximate—nationally/ethnically, geographically, politically, and affectively—to the field/home.
Hospital Resource Planning for Mass Casualty Incidents: Limitations for Coping with Multiple Injured Patients
Authors: Staribacher Daniel , Rauner Marion Sabine , Niessner Helmut
Published: October 2023

Using a discrete-event simulation (DES) model, the current disaster plan regarding the allocation of multiple injured patients from a mass casualty incident was evaluated for an acute specialty hospital in Vienna, Austria. With the current resources available, the results showed that the number of severely injured patients currently assigned might have to wait longer than the medically justifiable limit for lifesaving surgery. Furthermore, policy scenarios of increasing staff and/or equipment did not lead to a sufficient improvement of this outcome measure. However, the mean target waiting time for critical treatment of moderately injured patients could be met under all policy scenarios. Using simulation-optimization, an optimal staff-mix could be found for an illustrative policy scenario. In addition, a multiple regression model of simulated staff-mix policy scenarios identified staff categories (number of radiologists and rotation physicians) with the highest impact on waiting time and survival. In the short term, the current hospital disaster plan should consider reducing the number of severely injured patients to be treated. In the long term, we would recommend expanding hospital capacity—in terms of both structural and human resources as well as improving regional disaster planning. Policymakers should also consider the limitations of this study when applying these insights to different areas or circumstances.
Mindful Self-Compassion as an Antidote to Burnout for Mental Health Practitioners
Authors: Lyon T. Richelle , Galbraith Anne
Published: October 2023

The objective of this correlational study was to explore the relationship between levels of self-compassion and burnout for currently practicing mental health practitioners (MHPs) in the United States. All professionals are vulnerable to burnout based on various types of organizational stressors, but burnout is of particular concern for health care service providers who may need to adopt a stance of detachment, or emotional distance, as relief from intense workloads, with clients. The data were collected through an online survey. Regression analysis found that scores from Neff’s Self-Compassion Scale were a significant negative predictor of levels of MHP burnout, as assessed by Schaufeli et al.’s Burnout Assessment Tool, p < 0.001. The implication of this finding is that cultivating self-compassion appears to be a pragmatic self-care strategy for MHPs to mitigate the negative effects of burnout. More educational and occupational training in self-compassion practices as self-care should be provided to help protect the physical and emotional well-being of MHPs. The deleterious systemic effects of burnout make MHP self-care an ethical issue, along with the need to identify protective factors, prevention, and treatment of burnout.
Awareness of Medical Professionals Regarding Research Ethics in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Survey to Assess Training Needs
Authors: Alahmad Ghiath , Alshahrani Khalid Malawi , Alduhaim Renad Abdulaziz , Alhelal Rawan , Faden Rawa M. , Shaheen Naila A.
Published: October 2023

Background: Ethics is an essential component of human research, and knowledge and awareness of ethical guidelines are required to conduct research involving human subjects and ensure the participants’ safety. Objectives: To investigate medical professionals’ and researchers’ knowledge of national and international research ethics guidelines, key principles in human research projects, ethical issues in different types of research, the importance of informed consent, and institutional review boards. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study with 251 participants, including physicians, nurses, and researchers from three different research centers and hospitals in Riyadh city, was carried out using an electronic self-structured questionnaire. The sample size was estimated using OpenEpi, Version 3. The questionnaire contained six different sets of questions to analyze knowledge about research ethics and guidelines. The results were analyzed using SAS version 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). Results: About 53.78% of the participants had received research ethics education, out of which 78.51% of the participants expressed the need for more training in research ethics education. The Belmont Report showed a high level of unawareness among nurses (88.3%), physicians (73.8%), and researchers (55.32%). Nurses had a high level of positive attitude about all the key principles of human research. The highest level of awareness of ethical issues in clinical trials and interventional studies was found among researchers (54%), and the lowest level of awareness was exhibited by nurses (19.32%). Nurses (74.34%) and physicians (62.79%) had the lowest positive attitudes about obtaining children’s assent in pediatric research. Physicians and researchers had a higher awareness of the IRB than nurses. Conclusion: Researchers were well-versed in research ethics, regulatory guidelines, and ethical issues in various types of research, whereas nurses were enthusiastic about key principles in human research and the importance of informed consent. This study shows that a very low percentage of nurses have received research ethics education and emphasizes the critical importance of including research ethics education in nursing curricula, as the involvement of nurses in research is inevitable. This study also shows the lack of knowledge among nurses, researchers, and doctors about various international guidelines. It emphasizes the importance of adding regulatory guidelines to the curriculum and teaching them effectively to students. Also, periodic workshops should be conducted to enhance the practical knowledge of the professionals regarding the guidelines and guide them in overcoming the practical difficulties they encounter during their practice.
A Route Implementation Model for Military Tourism: Looking Back, Moving Forward
Authors: Mateus Lígia , Marques Célio Gonçalo , Pedro João Paulo , Simões João Tomaz
Published: October 2023

Military tourism has been growing in Portugal in recent years with numerous initiatives to enhance and promote the country’s military and historical heritage. In the academic context, studies have emerged to consolidate the segment in the tourism activity. In this framework, INSIGNIA was born, a project aimed at monitoring, evaluating and optimizing the Military Tourism Route. The implementation of the route and the network-based strategies chosen to structure the supply have been monitored to register key insights gathered through this model of heritage asset intervention and tourism development. This paper proposes a reflective overview of the implementation and monitoring processes, a lookback at the work conducted. Firstly, proposes a reflection on the implementation process, tracing its genesis in response to the conjunctures of the structuring of tourism supply and the consolidation of the concept itself. It seeks to reflect on the specific choices and services developed during the implementation process. Based on this lookback, the authors then propose a replicable model to guide these implementation processes. Using the monitoring experience of this study as a reference point, the model suggests possible metrics, as well as proposals for the collection and analysis of data relevant to its wider application.
Effect of Foliar Application of Silicon and Selenium on the Growth, Yield and Fruit Quality of Tomato in the Field
Authors: Hu Wanxing , Su Yan , Yang Rui , Xie Zhilong , Gong Haijun
Published: October 2023

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicon) is a widely produced and consumed fruit vegetable worldwide. Silicon (Si) and selenium (Se) can promote crop growth and development. However, the effects of these elements on tomato fruit quality have not been investigated comprehensively, nor are their combined effects on yield and quality clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of foliar application of Si and Se on tomato growth, yield and fruit quality. The tomato plants were foliarly applied with 1 mM Si and 25 μM Se individually or in combination, and the experiment was carried out in a plastic arch shed at Yangling in spring. Our results demonstrated improved plant growth by application of Si and Se, with the effect of combined treatment being more obvious. Application of Si individually or in combination with Se increased the yield. Se addition increased the concentrations of soluble sugars, vitamin C, phenols, anthocyanin, lycopene, carotenoids, Se and protein, and decreased the nitrate level, but did not affect the concentration of total organic acids in the fruit. Si application induced similar changes to Se addition in the levels of sucrose and protein in the fruit, but had no effect on other quality traits. The combined Si and Se treatment did not show significant superior effects on the fruit quality over their individual applications. Our results suggest that Si and Se application improved the tomato plant growth. Si and Se application, respectively, had obvious effects in the yield increase and quality improvement, and the combined treatment had positive effects on both aspects. The study may provide a theoretical base for the application of Se and Si fertilizers in tomato production.
Aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Resilience and Mental Health of Emerging Adult University Students
Authors: Leontopoulou Sophie
Published: October 2023

This study explored the relationship between COVID-19 impacts and resilience in emerging adulthood during the final two months of the pandemic. It aimed to examine whether mental health symptoms moderated this relationship. In total, 205 university students completed an online questionnaire survey. Regression analysis was used to examine the prediction of resilience by pandemic-related impacts, and moderation analysis was used to explore the potential moderating effect of mental health on the relationship between impacts and resilience. The findings failed to confirm the hypothesis that total COVID-19 impacts would predict resilience. Rather, resource-type impacts predicted resilience [B = 0.17, p < 0.5]. Significant partial correlations found among resource, financial, and psychological impacts may go some way toward clarifying connections between impacts and resilience [for resource-type impact with financial-type impact, r = 0.48, p < 0.01; for resource-type impact with psychological impact, r = 0.22, p < 0.01]. The results confirmed the hypothesis that mental health symptoms would moderate the relationship between pandemic impacts and resilience [for the overall model, R = 0.41, ΔR2 = 0.16, MSE = 0.76, F (4, 200) = 10.19, p < 0.001; for the interaction between total COVID impacts and resilience, ΔR2 = 0.017, F (1, 200) = 3.98, p < 0.05]. Thus, emerging adult students with low or moderate levels of symptomatology were more resilient, independently of the level of pandemic-related stressors they faced. Those experiencing higher levels of mental health symptoms, in tandem with high levels of pandemic-related impacts, exhibited increasingly higher resilience levels [b = 0.17, 95% CI [0.02, 0.32], t = 2.26, p = 0.025]. These youths may be better equipped to handle severe stress and adversity thanks to skills and resources they possess and are experienced in using. The implications of these findings for each group of young people are discussed for their usefulness in directing future research and interventions to foster resilience during current and future crises and health pandemics.
Study of the Structural Chemistry of the Inclusion Complexation of 4-Phenylbutyrate and Related Compounds with Cyclodextrins in Solution: Differences in Inclusion Mode with Cavity Size Dependency
Authors: Commey Kindness L. , Nakatake Akari , Enaka Airi , Nakamura Ryota , Nishi Koji , Tsukigawa Kenji , Ikeda Hirohito , Yamaguchi Koki , Iohara Daisuke , Hirayama Fumitoshi , Yamasaki Keishi , Otagiri Masaki
Published: October 2023

4-phenylbutyrate (PB) and structurally related compounds hold promise for treating many diseases, including cancers. However, pharmaceutical limitations, such as an unpleasant taste or poor aqueous solubility, impede their evaluation and clinical use. This study explores cyclodextrin (CD) complexation as a strategy to address these limitations. The structural chemistry of the CD complexes of these compounds was analyzed using phase solubility, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic techniques, and molecular modeling to inform the choice of CD for such application. The study revealed that PB and its shorter-chain derivative form 1:1 αCD complexes, while the longer-chain derivatives form 1:2 (guest:host) complexes. αCD includes the alkyl chain of the shorter-chain compounds, depositing the phenyl ring around its secondary rim, whereas two αCD molecules sandwich the phenyl ring in a secondary-to-secondary rim orientation for the longer-chain derivatives. βCD includes each compound to form 1:1 complexes, with their alkyl chains bent to varying degrees within the CD cavity. γCD includes two molecules of each compound to form 2:1 complexes, with both parallel and antiparallel orientations plausible. The study found that αCD is more suitable for overcoming the pharmaceutical drawbacks of PB and its shorter-chain derivative, while βCD is better for the longer-chain derivatives.
The Role of Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Microbiota–Gut–Brain Cross-Talk with a Focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moțățăianu Anca , Șerban Georgiana , Andone Sebastian
Published: October 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a devastating neurodegenerative disease characterized by the gradual loss of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to progressive motor function decline. Unfortunately, there is no effective treatment, and its increasing prevalence is linked to an aging population, improved diagnostics, heightened awareness, and changing lifestyles. In the gastrointestinal system, the gut microbiota plays a vital role in producing metabolites, neurotransmitters, and immune molecules. Short-chain fatty acids, of interest for their potential health benefits, are influenced by a fiber- and plant-based diet, promoting a diverse and balanced gut microbiome. These fatty acids impact the body by binding to receptors on enteroendocrine cells, influencing hormones like glucagon-like peptide-1 and peptide YY, which regulate appetite and insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, these fatty acids impact the blood–brain barrier, neurotransmitter levels, and neurotrophic factors, and directly stimulate vagal afferent nerves, affecting gut–brain communication. The vagus nerve is a crucial link between the gut and the brain, transmitting signals related to appetite, inflammation, and various processes. Dysregulation of this pathway can contribute to conditions like obesity and irritable bowel syndrome. Emerging evidence suggests the complex interplay among these fatty acids, the gut microbiota, and environmental factors influences neurodegenerative processes via interconnected pathways, including immune function, anti-inflammation, gut barrier, and energy metabolism. Embracing a balanced, fiber-rich diet may foster a diverse gut microbiome, potentially impacting neurodegenerative disease risk. Comprehensive understanding requires further research into interventions targeting the gut microbiome and fatty acid production and their potential therapeutic role in neurodegeneration.
Sex Differences in Brain Region-Specific Activation of c-Fos following Kappa Opioid Receptor Stimulation or Acute Stress in Mice
Authors: Ma Qianhan , Wonnacott Susan , Bailey Sarah J. , Bailey Christopher P.
Published: October 2023

Kappa opioid receptors (KOPr) are involved in the response to stress. KOPr are also targets for the treatment of stress-related psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, and addiction although effects of KOPr are often sex-dependent. Here we investigated c-Fos expression in a range of brain regions in male and female mice following an acute stressor, and a single injection of KOPr agonist. Using adult C57BL/6 c-Fos-GFP transgenic mice and quantitative fluorescence microscopy, we identified brain regions activated in response to a challenge with the KOPr agonist U50,488 (20 mg/kg) or an acute stress (15 min forced swim stress, FSS). In male mice, U50,488 increased expression of c-Fos in the prelimbic area of the prefrontal cortex (PFCx), nucleus accumbens (NAcc), and basolateral nuclei of the amygdala (BLA). In contrast, in female mice U50,488 only activated the BLA but not the PFCx or the NAcc. FSS increased activation of PFCx, NAcc, and BLA in males while there was no activation of the PFCx in female mice. In both sexes, the KOPr antagonist norBNI significantly blocked U50,488-induced, but not stress-induced activation of brain regions. In separate experiments, activated cells were confirmed as non-GABAergic neurons in the PFCx and NAcc. Together these data demonstrate sex differences in activation of brain regions that are key components of the ‘reward’ circuitry. These differential responses may contribute to sex differences in stress-related psychiatric disorders and in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and addiction.
Fully Automated Production of [68Ga]GaFAPI-46 with Gallium-68 from Cyclotron Using Liquid Targets
Authors: Fonseca Alexandra I. , Alves Vítor H. , Hrynchak Ivanna , Alves Francisco , Abrunhosa Antero J.
Published: October 2023

68Ga-based radiopharmaceuticals are routinely used for PET imaging of multiple types of tumors. Gallium-68 is commonly obtained from 68Ge/68Ga generators, which are limited in the quantity of activity produced. Alternatively, gallium-68 can easily be produced on a cyclotron using liquid targets. In this study, we optimized the GMP production of [68Ga]GaFAPI-46 using gallium-68 produced via a standard medical cyclotron using liquid targets. Starting from the published synthesis and quality control procedures described for other 68Ga-based radiopharmaceuticals, we have validated the synthesis process and the analytical methods to test the quality parameters of the final product to be used for routine clinical studies. [68Ga]GaFAPI-46 was successfully produced with high radiochemical purity and yield using an IBA Synthera® Extension module. Gallium chloride was produced on a medical cyclotron using a liquid target with activity of 4.31 ± 0.36 GBq at the end of purification (EOP). Analytical methods were established and validated, meeting Ph. Eur. standards. Full GMP production was also validated in three consecutive batches, producing 2.50 ± 0.46 GBq of [68Ga]GaFAPI-46 at the end of synthesis (EOS), with 98.94 ± 0.72% radiochemical purity measured via radio-HPLC. Quality was maintained for up to 3 h after the EOS. Production of [68Ga]GaFAPI-46 was performed and validated using a standard medical cyclotron with liquid targets. The quality control parameters (e.g., sterility, purity, and residual solvents) conformed to Ph. Eur. and a shelf life of 3 h was established. The activity of [68Ga]GaFAPI-46 produced was substantially higher than the one obtained with generators, enabling a better response to the clinical need for this radiopharmaceutical.