bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolated or Integrated? Tracing the Principal Mentor–Intern Relationship across an Academic Year
Authors: Drake Timothy A. , Seaton Lacey E. , Ivey Laura
Published: April 2023

High-quality principal internships are defined, in part, by support from high-quality principal mentors. We traced the development and quality of principal mentor–intern relationships during an academic school year and found that mentors played a significant role in determining the extent to which interns were isolated or integrated into the school leadership team. Specifically, mentors influenced (1) the types of tasks and activities interns were allowed to engage in, (2) the level of autonomy interns were afforded, and (3) the support interns received. Importantly, interns’ own proactivity shaped each of these aspects of their internship experience.
Meaning-Making in Ecology Education: Analysis of Students’ Multimodal Texts
Authors: Wanselin Hanna , Danielsson Kristina , Wikman Susanne
Published: April 2023

Teaching and learning in ecology depend on multimodality, involving semiotic resources such as visual representations, subject-specific symbols, and written and spoken language. Furthermore, the ecology field involves complex processes and relationships, presenting student challenges. However, more research has yet to investigate how students design multimodal texts to represent complex biological processes. For a holistic understanding of ecology, it is crucial to understand different complex processes, such as the matter cycle, energy flow, decomposition, and their relations. Therefore, this study aims to, through multimodal text analysis based on systemic functional linguistics (SFL), identify how secondary students collectively present and combine such processes and how they position themselves through their textual choices. Results indicate that representing biological processes comprises several challenges for students. One way in which this is shown is the unclear use and meaning of arrows. Thereto, the students include various aspects uncommon in the field of ecology, for example, symbols inspired by comic books, values, and the role of humans, thereby relating ecosystems to their interests and everyday life. Implications for teaching are discussed, for instance, the importance of supporting students in terms of scientific content and how to represent it, which can be conducted through text discussions.
Part-Wise Adaptive Topology Graph Convolutional Network for Skeleton-Based Action Recognition
Authors: Wang Jiale , Zou Lian , Fan Cien , Chi Ruan
Published: April 2023

Human action recognition is a computer vision challenge that involves identifying and classifying human movements and activities. The behavior of humans comprises movements of multiple body parts, and Graph Convolutional Networks (GCNs) have emerged as a promising approach for this task. However, most contemporary GCN methods perform graph convolution on the entire skeleton graph without considering that the human body consists of distinct body parts. To address these shortcomings, we propose a novel method that optimizes the representation of the skeleton graph by designing temporal and spatial convolutional blocks while introducing the Part-wise Adaptive Topology Graph Convolution (PAT-GC) technique. PAT-GC adaptively learns the segmentation of different body parts and dynamically integrates the spatial relevance between them. Furthermore, we utilize hierarchical modeling to divide the skeleton graph, capturing a more comprehensive representation of the human body. We evaluate our approach on three publicly available large datasets: NTU RGB + D 60, NTU RGB + D 120, and Kinetics Skeleton 400. Our experimental results demonstrate that our approach achieves state-of-the-art performance, thus validating the efficiency of our proposed technique for human action recognition.
Optimal Power Allocation and Power Splitting Ratio Assignments for SWIPT-Enabled Orthogonal Multiple Access with Distributed Antenna Systems
Authors: Kim Dongjae , Choi Minseok , Seo Dong-Wook
Published: April 2023

This study proposes an integrated framework of single-selection distributed antenna systems (DAS) and simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT) with orthogonal multiple access (OMA), and analyzes the synergetic effects of SWIPT and DAS. To demonstrate the performance gains of the proposed SWIPT-enabled OMA with DAS, we jointly optimize power allocation for the OMA and power splitting (PS) ratio for energy harvesting of SWIPT with three different optimization goals: sum-rate maximization, user fairness, and energy efficiency. Although all of the above optimization problems are non-convex, the closed-form solutions of the problems maximizing the sum-rate and fairness are presented. Owing to difficult analytical tractability of the problem maximizing the energy efficiency, the problem is divided into three subproblems: power allocation for the base station (BS), power allocation for radio remote unit (RRU), and PS ratio assignment. Then, an iterative algorithm is presented to provide the energy-efficient SWIPT-enabled OMA with DAS. Theoretical findings are validated by numerical results, which show that the framework of applying DAS to SWIPT-OMA improves data rates and energy efficiency compared to SWIPT-OMA without DAS, while satisfying the minimum rate and harvested energy requirements.
LoRaTRUST: Blockchain-Enabled Trust and Accountability Service for IoT Data
Authors: Vilchez Pedro , Jacques Saulo , Freitag Felix , Meseguer Roc
Published: April 2023

Environmental monitoring is a growing application of the Internet of Things. The low cost of the sensor nodes, LoRa connectivity, and increased awareness of environmental issues have motivated many citizens to participate in open IoT monitoring applications. However, the value of these applications for decision makers is limited since the data from the IoT sensors do not have sufficient guarantees to be trusted. In this paper, we introduce a new concept that attributes value to both IoT data and devices, such as sensor nodes and gateways, and leverage distributed ledger technology to enable a data trust system. A first design decision was to assign Ethereum addresses with their associated public and private key pairs to all actors. This allows the authentication of data senders and hence the accounting for the contribution of each participant. Secondly, we introduce an auditor to validate the received IoT data. The results of these audits increase the trust in the quality of the data. We present the architectural components that we designed to enhance trust in open IoT monitoring applications and present an operational prototype to show the feasibility of the implementation. By achieving both trust in the data and accounting of contributions for giving rewards, open participatory IoT monitoring applications can become both valuable and sustainable. Then, trusted open monitoring may complement commercial solutions as a technical and economic alternative for addressing the increasing environmental monitoring needs of our society.
Autonomous Path Finding and Obstacle Avoidance Method for Unmanned Construction Machinery
Authors: Wu Jiangdong , Ren Haoling , Lin Tianliang , Yao Yu , Fang Zhen , Liu Chang
Published: April 2023

The working environment of construction machinery is harsh, and some operations are highly repetitive. The realization of intelligent construction machinery helps to improve economic efficiency and promote industrial development. Construction machinery is different from ordinary passenger vehicles. Aiming at the fact that the existing environmental perception data set cannot be directly applied to construction machinery, this paper establishes the corresponding data set in combination with the specific working conditions of construction machinery and carries out training based on the PointPillars network to realize the environmental perception function applicable to the working conditions of construction machinery. Most construction machinery runs on unstructured roads, and the existing passenger vehicle path planning algorithm is not applicable to construction machinery. Based on this, this paper uses a hybrid A* algorithm to achieve path planning that meets the kinematics of construction machinery and realizes real-time obstacle detection and avoidance. At the same time, this paper combines environmental perception with a path planning algorithm to provide a method of autonomous path finding and obstacle avoidance for construction machinery. Based on the improved pure pursuit algorithm, the high-precision motion control and established trajectory tracking of construction machinery are realized, which lays a certain foundation for the follow-up research and development of related intelligent technologies of construction machinery.
Robotic Cell Reliability Optimization Based on Digital Twin and Predictive Maintenance
Authors: Mourtzis Dimitris , Tsoubou Sofia , Angelopoulos John
Published: April 2023

Robotic systems have become a standard tool in modern manufacturing due to their unique characteristics, such as repeatability, precision, and speed, among others. One of the main challenges of robotic manipulators is the low degree of reliability. Low reliability increases the probability of disruption in manufacturing processes, minimizing in this way the productivity and by extension the profit of the company. To address the abovementioned challenges, this research work proposes a robotic cell reliability optimization method based on digital twin and predictive maintenance. Concretely, the simulation of the robot is provided, and emphasis is given to the reliability optimization of the robotic cell’s critical component. A supervised machine learning model is trained, aiming to detect and classify the faulty behavior of the critical component. Furthermore, a framework is proposed for the remaining useful life prediction with the aim to improve the reliability of the robotic cell. Thus, following the results of the current research work, appropriate maintenance tasks can be applied, preventing the robotic cell from serious failures and ensuring high reliability.
Slow-Scale Nonlinear Control of a H-Bridge Photovoltaic Inverter
Authors: Yin Zhihong , Gong Renxi , Lu Yimin
Published: April 2023

Aiming at the slow-scale nonlinear behaviors of a dual-loop control H-bridge photovoltaic inverter, a slow-scale nonlinear control method based on time-delay feedback control is proposed. Firstly, a feedback signal is formed by the difference between the current error signal and its own delay, and the feedback signal is made to pass through a proportion link so as to obtain a time-delay control signal. Then, based on the necessary conditions of the stability criterion, the value range of the delay feedback proportional coefficient is quickly determined, and the best delay time is chosen by determining the variation curve of the largest Lyapunov exponent. Finally, based on the double-loop PI regulation, the time-delay control signal is added to the original control signal to form the final control signal applied to the inverter. The results obtained show that the slow-scale nonlinear behaviors in the system can be absolutely eliminated, and the stable operation domain of the inverter can be remarkably expanded. When the sun irradiance and temperature change, the proposed control method still has a good control effect and shows strong robustness. In addition, the complex calculation in determining the control coefficient and delay time can be avoided by the method.
Lessons Learned from Online Teaching and Their Implications for Students’ Future Careers: Combined PLS-SEM and IPA Approach
Authors: Ștefan Simona Cătălina , Popa Ion , Mircioiu Corina-Elena
Published: April 2023

As far as students are concerned, there is a well-founded relationship between academic performance and career management from which a special professional path can result, based on the multitude of knowledge, skills, and experiences acquired during the years of study. To this end, the presence and help of teachers participating in the learning process, the teaching activities they are involved in, and their own participation are determinant factors. This research aims to highlight the impact that the above factors have on the professional future of students. For this purpose, 395 respondents, including students in the bachelor’s and master’s cycles, were involved in the research process, to whom a questionnaire was given in electronic format during two stages: one where the didactic activity was carried out in online format and the other carried out face-to-face. Hypotheses testing was performed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The present study focuses on two main directions regarding the results obtained. Thus, with respect to the acquisition of knowledge and the development of student skills, it emerged that the effect of the content in the didactic activities on student skills and the development of competencies is strengthened by the skills and degree of involvement of the teaching staff from the university environment. Related to the management of students’ careers, the analysis showed that the effect of the content in didactic activities is complemented by the accumulation of knowledge and the formation of student skills. The rigorous economic training resulting from didactic activities constitutes a main pillar in the students’ future, even more so depending on how much they perceive that the topics covered in the university courses are of interest to them. The results of this study can serve as theoretical support for future research that addresses the topic of student career management and the implications of university activities on knowledge and skills. In addition, the results can support decisions for the management of higher education institutions regarding the development and implementation of university programs and educational strategies with the aim of increasing the involvement of teachers and students in the teaching–learning process.
Pt-Fe-Co Ternary Metal Single Atom Catalyst for toward High Efficiency Alkaline Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhang Ruimin , Wang Ke , Wang Peng , He Yan , Liu Zhiming
Published: April 2023

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) within carbon matrix became one of the most promising alternatives to noble metal-based catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Although SACs have significant benefits in reducing the total catalyst cost, it also has the disadvantages of weak interaction between atoms and poor stability. Hence, there is still much room for improvement for the catalyst activity. In response, we designed a Fe-Co-Pt ternary metal single atom catalyst anchored on covalent organic framework (COF)-derived N-doped carbon nanospheres (Pt, Fe, Co/N-C). Due to effective charge transfer between Pt single atom and neighboring Fe-Co components, an intense electron interaction can be established within the Pt, Fe, Co/N-C catalyst. This is beneficial for enhancing charge transfer efficiency, modulating d electronic structure of Pt center and weakening oxygen intermediate adsorption, thus distinctly accelerating ORR catalytic kinetics. As expected, the half-wave potential of Pt, Fe, Co/N-C was 0.845 V, much higher than those of commercial 20 wt% Pt/C (0.835 V), Pt/N-C (0.79 V) and Fe, Co/N-C (0.81 V) counterparts. Moreover, the Pt, Fe, Co/N-C catalyst demonstrated much-improved cycling stability and methanol tolerance.
Nonintrusive Load Monitoring Using Recurrent Neural Networks with Occupants Location Information in Residential Buildings
Authors: Lee Myeung-Hun , Moon Hyeun-Jun
Published: April 2023

Nonintrusive load monitoring (NILM) is a process that disaggregates individual energy consumption based on the total energy consumption. In this study, an energy disaggregation model was developed and verified using an algorithm based on a recurrent neural network (RNN). It also aimed to evaluate the utility of the occupant location information, which is nonelectrical information. This study developed energy disaggregation models with RNN-based long short-term memory (LSTM) and gated recurrent unit (GRU). The performance of the suggested models was evaluated with a conventional method that uses the factorial hidden Markov model. As a result, when developing the GRU disaggregation model based on an RNN, the energy disaggregation performance improved in accuracy, F1-score, mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE). In addition, when the location information of the occupants was used, the suggested model showed improved performance and good agreement with the real power and electricity consumption by each appliance.
Investigation of the Effect of Current Protections in Conditions of Single-Phase Ground Fault through Transient Resistance in the Electrical Networks of Mining Enterprises
Authors: Ustinov Denis , Nazarychev Aleksander , Pelenev Denis , Babyr Kirill , Pugachev Andrey
Published: April 2023

The efficiency of electrical complexes depends directly on the level of power supply system reliability, which comprises extensive and branched distribution networks. A complex of single-phase ground fault (SPGF) relay protection and automation devices (RPA) is used to reduce the economic losses from the failure of the electrical receivers’ distribution networks. This paper presents a study of the protection sensitivity factor, taking into account the influence of the network capacity and the resistance during a fault. The results of this study determined the minimum permissible values of the sensitivity factor that ensures the stable operation of the protection device. This was achieved by taking into account the influence of the transient resistance at the point of short circuit. The practical significance of the study is as follows: the obtained characteristics will allow for the development of new functional logic circuits for SPGF protection. The practical implementation of the obtained results will allow for the following: to increase the sensitivity and selectivity of current non-directional protections in conditions of incomplete short circuits; to ensure the reliable functioning of technological equipment and responsible consumers; to reduce the level of electrical injuries of service personnel; and to reduce economic losses associated with the repair of damaged electrical receivers.
An Overview of Possibilities of Increasing the Permissible Speed of Underground Suspended Monorails for Transporting People in the Conditions of Polish Underground Mining
Authors: Świder Jerzy , Szewerda Kamil , Tokarczyk Jarosław , Plewa Franciszek , Grodzicka Aneta , Kędzia Krzysztof
Published: April 2023

The permissible speed of suspended monorails in underground mines is determined by the internal regulations of each country and depends on the type of transportation. In the case of passenger transportation, the maximal driving speed in Polish underground mining regulations is 2 ms−1. Regarding the higher permitted driving speed in other countries, it is reasonable to consider changes to these regulations that would raise the permitted speed limit. Increasing the permissible travel speed would improve the efficiency of mining operations because of the significant reduction in the inefficient working time of miners traveling on the monorail from the shaft to their place of work. However, at the same time, an increase in the permissible speed of travel results in higher values of forces and accelerations affecting both the crew riding the train and the underground working infrastructure (the suspended route, slings, and arches yielding support). The results of the series of works carried out at the KOMAG Institute of Mining Technology to assess the impact of increasing the speed on the safety of both the crew and the mine infrastructure are presented in this article. For this purpose, several numerical simulations were conducted, considering the emergency braking of the suspended monorail during which the overloads are the greatest. The result of the simulations was the analysis of the effects of driving and emergency braking of the suspended monorail with increased travel speed on the following: the overloads acting on the crew being transported and the forces acting on the suspended monorail route, including the forces in each sling. Next, a potential solution for improving safety was developed. The development of the algorithm for an innovative method of sequential emergency braking of the monorail in the case of passenger transportation was one of the important solutions.
Experiences of Parenting Multiple Expressions of Relationally Challenging Childhood Behaviours across Contexts
Authors: Smart Harriet , Lodge Rosemary , Lusher Joanne
Published: April 2023

This entry delves into the parenting literature and reveals the complexities, perspectives, and multiple expressions of parenting challenging childhood behavior that distress or negatively impact the parent-child relationship so that we can better understand how to support families who are struggling to cope. The entry specifically focuses on the period of transition to school for children aged five to eight years. This transition can illuminate vulnerabilities previously hidden as children attempt to navigate the demands of their unfamiliar environment, meaning that parents can experience distress and emotional challenges. The entry explores the various expressions of relationally challenging behavior and comments on the intersectionality and reciprocity of explicit and implicit expressions of affect such as frustration and anxiety. To gain context, the entry examines common antecedents associated with relationally challenging behavior, such as academic comparison, forming friendships, hidden neurodiverse development, neglect, attachment dysfunction, and family conflict. Qualitative literature enriches understanding and identifies problems such as parental distress related to social stigma and minority stress and reveals specific struggles, including stress, related to homeschooling children with special educational needs, homeschooling during the recent pandemic, single parenting, grandparenting, parenting neurodiverse children, and the triangulated tensions that exist between the parent, the child, and the school. Holding in mind these diverse and context-orientated perspectives, this entry examines research that evaluates helpfulness and illuminates deficiencies of popular structured parent programs. Lastly, the entry identifies and illuminates the need to know more about the ways in which parent programs work, and it is anticipated that this new knowledge will help practitioners to better respond to the complexities of need and expectations of families who struggle to cope with relationally challenging behavior.
Detection of Moisture Content of Pinus massoniana Lamb. Seedling Leaf Based on NIR Spectroscopy with a Multi-Learner Model
Authors: Li Yurong , Xia Haifei , Liu Ying , Huo Lintao , Ni Chao , Gou Binli
Published: April 2023

The growth quality of Pinus massoniana (Lamb.) seedlings is closely related to the survival rate of afforestation. Moisture content detection is an important indicator in the cultivation of forest seedlings because it can directly reflect the adaptability and growth potential of the seedlings to the soil environment. To improve the accuracy of quantitative analysis of moisture content in P. massoniana seedlings using near-infrared spectroscopy, a total of 100 P. massoniana seedlings were collected, and their near-infrared diffuse reflectance spectra were measured in the range of 2500 to 800 nm (12,000 to 4000 cm−1). An integrated learning framework was introduced, and a quantitative detection model for moisture content in P. massoniana seedlings was established by combining preprocessing and feature wavelength selection methods in chemometrics. Our results showed that the information carried by the spectra after multiple scattering correction (MSC) preprocessing had a good response to the target attribute. The stacking learning model based on the full-band spectrum had a prediction coefficient of determination R2 of 0.8819, and the prediction accuracy of moisture content in P. massoniana seedlings could be significantly improved compared to the single model. After variable selection, the spectrum processed by MSC and feature selection with uninformative variable elimination (UVE) showed good prediction effects in all models. Additionally, the prediction coefficient of determination R2 of the support vector regression (SVR)—adaptive boosting (AdaBoost)—partial least squares regression (PLSR) + AdaBoost model reached 0.9430. This indicates that the quantitative analysis model of moisture content in P. massoniana seedlings established through preprocessing, feature selection, and stacking learning models can achieve high accuracy in predicting moisture content in P. massoniana seedlings. This model can provide a feasible technical reference for the precision cultivation of P. massoniana seedlings.
Antagonistic Activity and Potential Mechanisms of Endophytic Bacillus subtilis YL13 in Biocontrol of Camellia oleifera Anthracnose
Authors: Xia Yandong , Liu Junang , Wang Zhikai , He Yuan , Tan Qian , Du Zhuang , Niu Anqi , Liu Manman , Li Zhong , Sang Mengke , Zhou Guoying
Published: April 2023

Anthracnose, caused by the fungus Collectotrichum fructicola (C. fructicola), is a major disease affecting the quality and yield of Camellia oleifera (C. oleifera); it reduces C. oleifera yield by 40%–80%. Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) YL13 is an antagonistic endophytic bacteria strain isolated from healthy C. oleifera leaves. This study was aimed at investigating the potential of YL13 for the biocontrol of C. oleifera anthracnose and the possible mechanisms involved. In in vitro assays, YL13 demonstrated remarkable antagonistic activity of C. fructicola. Its cell-free filtrates displayed antagonistic activity, which suggested that the metabolites of YL13 might play important roles. In vivo tests showed that the disease index of YL13-treated plants was obviously reduced under greenhouse conditions. YL13 secretes a variety of bioactive metabolites, including protease, cellulase, and siderophore, which might participate in the resistance to C. fructicola. In addition, C. oleifera treated with the fermentation broth of YL13 demonstrated different defense responses, e.g., accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and activation of the defense-related enzyme peroxidase (POD), which might contribute directly or indirectly to overcome external stresses. The significant biocontrol effect and host defense-induction activity of YL13 suggested that this B. subtilis strain as well as its metabolites have the potential to be exploited as microbial control agents for the efficient management of C. oleifera anthracnose.
Aboveground Biomass Retrieval in Tropical and Boreal Forests Using L-Band Airborne Polarimetric Observations
Authors: Wang Mengjin , Zhang Wangfei , Ji Yongjie , Marino Armando , Xu Kunpeng , Zhao Lei , Shi Jianmin , Zhao Han
Published: April 2023

Forests play a crucial part in regulating global climate change since their aboveground biomass (AGB) relates to the carbon cycle, and its changes affect the main carbon pools. At present, the most suitable available SAR data for wall-to-wall forest AGB estimation are exploiting an L-band polarimetric SAR. However, the saturation issues were reported for AGB estimation using L-band backscatter coefficients. Saturation varies depending on forest structure. Polarimetric information has the capability to identify different aspects of forest structure and therefore shows great potential for reducing saturation issues and improving estimation accuracy. In this study, 121 polarimetric decomposition observations, 10 polarimetric backscatter coefficients and their derived observations, and six texture features were extracted and applied for forest AGB estimation in a tropical forest and a boreal forest. A parametric feature optimization inversion model (Multiple linear stepwise regression, MSLR) and a nonparametric feature optimization inversion model (fast iterative procedure integrated into a K-nearest neighbor nonparameter algorithm, KNNFIFS) were used for polarimetric features optimization and forest AGB inversion. The results demonstrated the great potential of L-band polarimetric features for forest AGB estimation. KNNFIFS performed better both in tropical (R2 = 0.80, RMSE = 22.55 Mg/ha, rRMSE = 14.59%, MA%E = 12.21%) and boreal (R2 = 0.74, RMSE = 19.82 Mg/ha, rRMSE = 20.86%, MA%E = 20.19%) forests. Non-model-based polarimetric features performed better compared to features extracted by backscatter coefficients, model-based decompositions, and texture. Polarimetric observations also revealed site-dependent performances.
Evaluation of Fermentability of Whole Soybeans and Soybean Oligosaccharides by a Canine In Vitro Fermentation Model
Authors: Kim Hee Seong , Titgemeyer Evan C. , Aldrich Charles Gregory
Published: April 2023

Soybean oligosaccharides (OS) have been recognized as a prebiotic that can be fermented in the colon, resulting in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production that can be used as an energy source for colonocytes, supporting cell differentiation and gut health. The objective was to determine the effects of WSBOS on in vitro fermentation, using dog feces as inoculum. Treatments included total dietary fiber (TDF) residues from WSB, soybean hulls (SH), pea fiber (PF), and beet pulp (BP), as well as WSB TDF residue plus soybean OS (WSBOS) and WSB TDF residue plus raffinose, stachyose, and verbascose (WSBRSV). Fresh fecal samples were collected from dogs and maintained in anaerobic conditions until substrate inoculation. Test tubes containing fiber sources and inoculum were incubated for 4, 8, and 12 h at 39 °C. Organic matter disappearance (OMD), pH, and SCFA were measured. The WSBOS and WSBRSV had greater (p < 0.05) OMDs than BP. Butyrate production was greatest (p < 0.05) for WSBOS (294.7 µmol/g) and WSBRSV (266.1 µmol/g), followed by BP (130.3 µmol/g) and WSB (109.2 µmol/g), and lowest (p < 0.05) for PF (44.1 µmol/g). The production of total SCFA was greatest (p < 0.05) for BP and WSBOS, followed by WSB, and lowest (p < 0.05) for PF. In conclusion, WSB has the potential as a prebiotic demonstrating greater butyrate production than BP in a canine in vitro fermentation model due to the fermentation of both OS and fiber in WSB. Further animal feeding studies are needed to determine the appropriate amount of WSB in canine diets.
Insight into the Quality Development and Microbial Dynamics of Meat and Meat Products
Authors: Wang Huiping , Chen Qian , Kong Baohua
Published: April 2023

Meat and meat products play a vital role in the daily diet due to their desirable texture, delicious flavor and nutritional value [...]
Combined Pulsed Vacuum Osmotic Dehydration and Convective Air-Drying Process of Jambolan Fruits
Authors: Araújo Adriano , Pena Rosinelson
Published: April 2023

Jambolan (Syzygium cumini) is a native fruit from Asia that has adapted well to the tropical climate of the Amazonian region. However, due to its limited annual availability and high perishability, the jambolan fruit is still underexploited. Thus, this study aimed to preserve the jambolan through a combined process of pulsed vacuum osmotic dehydration (PVOD) and convective air-drying and to monitor the total phenolic contents (TPCs) and total monomeric anthocyanins (TMAs) during these processes. To this end, jambolan fruits were pretreated with increasing PVOD times. After monitoring of moisture loss, solid gain, weight reduction, water activity, TPC, and TMA, pretreated (PT) and non-pretreated (NPT) fruits underwent convective air-drying (50–70 °C). The PVOD reduced half of the water present in the fruits; nonetheless, PVOD decreased the TPC and TMA over time. The increase in air-drying temperature shortened the drying time for both NPT and PT jambolan, and PVOD reduced even further the drying time of the fruits. Moreover, the fruits pretreated and dried at 60 °C showed promising results, potentially being a good alternative to extend the fruit’s shelf life and make it available throughout the year.
Investigating the Effect of Rosemary Essential Oil, Supercritical CO2 Processing and Their Synergism on the Quality and Microbial Inactivation of Chicken Breast Meat
Authors: Santi Fabio , Zulli Riccardo , Lincetti Elisa , Zambon Alessandro , Spilimbergo Sara
Published: April 2023

Fresh chicken meat is a very perishable good, even at refrigerated storage conditions, due to psychrophilic microbial growth and physicochemical changes. The present study focuses on the use of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil (REO), supercritical CO2 processing and their synergism to increase the microbial inactivation in chicken breast meat. E. coli and L. innocua were inoculated on the chicken breast surface, and the inactivation effects of two different processes, namely SC-CO2 and SC-MAPCO2, were compared with or without the addition of REO. Moreover, the impact of the treatments on the superficial color of the meat was considered. The study demonstrated a synergic effect with 1% REO and supercritical CO2 for the inactivation of E. coli on chicken meat, while for L. innocua, there was no synergism. Regarding SC-CO2 treatment, the E. coli reduction was 1.29 and 3.31 log CFU/g, while for L. innocua, it was 1.42 and 1.11 log CFU/g, respectively, without and with the addition of 1.0% of REO. The same amount of REO allowed us to obtain a reduction of 1.3 log CFU/g of E. coli when coupled with SC-MAPCO2. For L. innocua, no reduction was obtained, either with SC-MAPCO2 or together with REO. The synergism of SC-MAPCO2 with 1% REO was confirmed for the total psychrophilic bacteria, demonstrating a strong dependence on the microorganism. The color modification induced by the SC-MAPCO2 process was lower than the SC-CO2 treatment. Overall, this study demonstrated a possible synergism of the technologies which can support the development of innovative methods to improve the safety and shelf-life of chicken breast meat.
Alginate Based Core–Shell Capsules Production through Coextrusion Methods: Recent Applications
Authors: Bennacef Chanez , Desobry Stéphane , Probst Laurent , Desobry-Banon Sylvie
Published: April 2023

Encapsulation is used in various industries to protect active molecules and control the release of the encapsulated materials. One of the structures that can be obtained using coextrusion encapsulation methods is the core–shell capsule. This review focuses on coextrusion encapsulation applications for the preservation of oils and essential oils, probiotics, and other bioactives. This technology isolates actives from the external environment, enhances their stability, and allows their controlled release. Coextrusion offers a valuable means of preserving active molecules by reducing oxidation processes, limiting the evaporation of volatile compounds, isolating some nutrients or drugs with undesired taste, or stabilizing probiotics to increase their shelf life. Being environmentally friendly, coextrusion offers significant application opportunities for the pharmaceutical, food, and agriculture sectors.
Temporary Anti-Corrosive Double Layer on Zinc Substrate Based on Chitosan Hydrogel and Epoxy Resin
Authors: Ovari Tamara-Rita , Szőke Árpád Ferenc , Katona Gabriel , Szabó Gabriella Stefánia , Muresan Liana Maria
Published: April 2023

In practice, metal structures are frequently transported or stored before being used. Even in such circumstances, the corrosion process caused by environmental factors (moisture, salty air, etc.) can occur quite easily. To avoid this, metal surfaces can be protected with temporary coatings. The objective of this research was to develop coatings that exhibit effective protective characteristics while also allowing for easy removal, if required. Novel, chitosan/epoxy double layers were prepared on zinc by dip-coating to obtain temporary tailor-made and peelable-on-demand, anti-corrosive coatings. Chitosan hydrogel fulfills the role of a primer that acts as an intermediary between the zinc substrate and the epoxy film to obtain better adhesion and specialization. The resulting coatings were characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, contact angle measurements, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The impedance of the bare zinc was increased by three orders of magnitude when the protective coatings were applied, proving efficient anti-corrosive protection. The chitosan sublayer improved the adhesion of the protective epoxy coating. The structural integrity and absolute impedance of the protective layers were conserved in both basic and neutral environments. However, after fulfilling its lifespan, the chitosan/epoxy double-layered coating could be removed after treatment with a mild acid without damaging the substrate. This was because of the hydrophilic properties of the epoxy layer, as well as the tendency of chitosan to swell in acidic conditions.
L-Lysine-Modified pNIPAm-co-GMA Copolymer Hydrogel for pH- and Temperature-Responsive Drug Delivery and Fluorescence Imaging Applications
Authors: Santhamoorthy Madhappan , Vanaraj Ramkumar , Thirupathi Kokila , Ulagesan Selvakumari , Nam Taek-Jeong , Phan Thi Tuong Vy , Kim Seong-Cheol
Published: April 2023

The development of dual-stimuli-responsive hydrogels attracts much research interest owing to its unique stimuli-responsive characteristics. In this study, a poly-N-isopropyl acrylamide-co-glycidyl methacrylate-based copolymer was synthesized by incorporating N-isopropyl acrylamide (NIPAm) and a glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) monomer. The synthesized copolymer, pNIPAm-co-GMA was further modified with L-lysine (Lys) functional units and further conjugated with fluorescent isothiocyanate (FITC) to produce a fluorescent copolymer pNIPAAm-co-GMA-Lys hydrogel (HG). The in vitro drug loading and dual pH- and temperature-stimuli-responsive drug release behavior of the pNIPAAm-co-GMA-Lys HG was investigated at different pH (pH 7.4, 6.2, and 4.0) and temperature (25 °C, 37 °C, and 45 °C) conditions, respectively, using curcumin (Cur) as a model anticancer drug. The Cur drug-loaded pNIPAAm-co-GMA-Lys/Cur HG showed a relatively slow drug release behavior at a physiological pH (pH 7.4) and low temperature (25 °C) condition, whereas enhanced drug release was achieved at acidic pH (pH 6.2 and 4.0) and higher temperature (37 °C and 45 °C) conditions. Furthermore, the in vitro biocompatibility and intracellular fluorescence imaging were examined using the MDA-MB-231 cell line. Therefore, we demonstrate that the synthesized pNIPAAm-co-GMA-Lys HG system with temperature- and pH-stimuli-responsive features could be promising for various applications in biomedical fields, including drug delivery, gene delivery, tissue engineering, diagnosis, antibacterial/antifouling material, and implantable devices.
Expanding the Knowledge of KIF1A-Dependent Disorders to a Group of Polish Patients
Authors: Paprocka Justyna , Jezela-Stanek Aleksandra , Śmigiel Robert , Walczak Anna , Mierzewska Hanna , Kutkowska-Kaźmierczak Anna , Płoski Rafał , Emich-Widera Ewa , Steinborn Barbara
Published: April 2023

Background: KIF1A (kinesin family member 1A)-related disorders encompass a variety of diseases. KIF1A variants are responsible for autosomal recessive and dominant spastic paraplegia 30 (SPG, OMIM610357), autosomal recessive hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 2 (HSN2C, OMIM614213), and autosomal dominant neurodegeneration and spasticity with or without cerebellar atrophy or cortical visual impairment (NESCAV syndrome), formerly named mental retardation type 9 (MRD9) (OMIM614255). KIF1A variants have also been occasionally linked with progressive encephalopathy with brain atrophy, progressive neurodegeneration, PEHO-like syndrome (progressive encephalopathy with edema, hypsarrhythmia, optic atrophy), and Rett-like syndrome. Materials and Methods: The first Polish patients with confirmed heterozygous pathogenic and potentially pathogenic KIF1A variants were analyzed. All the patients were of Caucasian origin. Five patients were females, and four were males (female-to-male ratio = 1.25). The age of onset of the disease ranged from 6 weeks to 2 years. Results: Exome sequencing identified three novel variants. Variant c.442G>A was described in the ClinVar database as likely pathogenic. The other two novel variants, c.609G>C; p.(Arg203Ser) and c.218T>G, p.(Val73Gly), were not recorded in ClinVar. Conclusions: The authors underlined the difficulties in classifying particular syndromes due to non-specific and overlapping signs and symptoms, sometimes observed only temporarily.
Hypoxia-Inducible Pathway Polymorphisms and Their Role in the Complications of Prematurity
Authors: Strauss Ewa , Gotz-Więckowska Anna , Sobaniec Alicja , Chmielarz-Czarnocińska Anna , Szpecht Dawid , Januszkiewicz-Lewandowska Danuta
Published: April 2023

Excessive oxidative stress resulting from hyperoxia or hypoxia is a recognized risk factor for diseases of prematurity. However, the role of the hypoxia-related pathway in the development of these diseases has not been well studied. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between four functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the hypoxia-related pathway, and the development of complications of prematurity in relation to perinatal hypoxia. A total of 334 newborns born before or on the 32nd week of gestation were included in the study. The SNPs studied were HIF1A rs11549465 and rs11549467, VEGFA rs2010963, and rs833061. The findings suggest that the HIF1A rs11549465T allele is an independent protective factor against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), but may increase the risk of diffuse white matter injury (DWMI) in newborns exposed to hypoxia at birth and long-term oxygen supplementation. In addition, the rs11549467A allele was found to be an independent protective factor against respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). No significant associations with VEGFA SNPs were observed. These findings indicate the potential involvement of the hypoxia-inducible pathway in the pathogenesis of complications of prematurity. Studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these results and explore their clinical implications.
Evaluation of Library Preparation Workflows and Applications to Different Sample Types Using the PowerSeq® 46GY System with Massively Parallel Sequencing
Authors: Elwick Kyleen , Rydzak Patrick , Robertson James M.
Published: April 2023

This project evaluated the prototype PowerSeq® 46GY System using donor DNA and casework-type samples. The goal of this study was to determine whether modifications to the manufacturer’s protocol could increase read coverage and improve sample results. Buccal and casework-type libraries were prepared using the TruSeq® DNA PCR-Free HT kit or the KAPA HyperPrep kit. Both kits were evaluated unmodified, and by substituting AMPure® XP beads for the beads of the most optimal kit. Two qPCR kits, the PowerSeq® Quant MS System and KAPA Library Quantification Kit, were also evaluated along with a KAPA size-adjustment workbook, which was compared as a third quantification method. Libraries were sequenced using the MiSeq® FGx and data were analyzed with STRait Razor. Results suggested that all three quantification methods overestimated library concentration, but the PowerSeq kit was most accurate. Samples prepared with the TruSeq library kit provided the highest coverage and the fewest instances of dropout and below-threshold alleles compared with the KAPA kit. Additionally, all bone and hair samples demonstrated full profile completeness, with bone samples yielding a higher average coverage than hair samples. Overall, our study demonstrated that the 46GY manufacturer’s protocol produced the best quality results compared to alternative library preparation options.
Correction: Bernardi et al. OH-Defects in Detrital Quartz Grains from the Julian Basin (NE Italy and Slovenia): A Fourier Transform Infrared Study. Geosciences 2022, 12, 90
Authors: Bernardi Francesco , Skogby Henrik , Lenaz Davide
Published: April 2023

The authors would like to correct the published article [...]
The Relationship between Psychological Hardiness and Military Performance by Reservists: A Moderation Effect of Perceived Stress and Resilience
Authors: Bekesiene Svajone , Smaliukienė Rasa , Kanapeckaitė Rosita
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of hardiness on the perceived military performance of reservists, i.e., young people who have full-time jobs in a civilian sector and perform military training as a part of their civic duty. We proposed the conceptual model with conditional indirect effects of the hardiness on personal military performance, where mediated moderation effects are observed from personality traits and variables important for military service: team cohesion, perceived stress, and psychological resilience. The final dataset was comprised of 384 self-reported paper–pencil questionnaires filled out by reserve soldiers, and PROCESS Macro 3.5 Model 7 and Model 14 were used for the analysis. The results revealed that perceived stress (Model 1) and psychological resilience (Model 2) have a statistically significant moderate mediating effect on the interlink between hardiness and performance when personality traits and team cohesion are taken into consideration. The change in R2 is statistically significant and explains how perceived stress and psychological resilience affect individuals. When psychological hardiness is low, the level of perceived stress has a statistically significant moderating effect, i.e., it reduces the effect of hardiness on performance. When comparing the effects of perceived stress and psychological resilience, the latter has a stronger moderating effect on performance. Specifically, the moderating effect of resilience was more evident in Model 2 (66.9% variance, r = 0.818) for the military performance of the reservists than the perceived stress in Model 1 (52.5% variance, r = 0.724). This means that resilience increases the accountability of Model 2 compared to Model 1 by 14.4%. We conclude that resilience training could statistically significantly increase the military performance of reserve soldiers as a tactical population.
Experiences of Frequent Users of Emergency Departments in Health Care Setting in French-Speaking Switzerland: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Graells Madison , Schaad Luana , Schmutz Elodie , Moullin Joanna , Hugli Olivier , Daeppen Jean-Bernard , Ambrosetti Julia , Ombelli Julien , Golay Michel , Ribordy Vincent , Bodenmann Patrick , Grazioli Véronique S.
Published: April 2023

Aims. Frequent users of the emergency department (FUED; five ED visits or more per year) often have negative experiences in health care settings, potentially aggravating their health problems. Scarce research has explored FUED experiences in health care in Europe, none in Switzerland. Thus, this study aimed to conduct an in-depth exploration of FUED experiences in health care settings in Switzerland. Methods. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 20 FUED (75% female; mean age = 40.6, SD = 12.8). Qualitative data were subject to inductive content analysis. Results. Five main themes emerged from the analysis. The main findings documented that FUED experiences in health care were mostly negative, leading to negative emotions, dissatisfaction and a loss of confidence in the system, although some positive experiences were reported as well. The relationship with health care workers was perceived as playing a key role in FUED experiences. Conclusion. The findings indicate that FUED often have negative experiences in the health care system in Switzerland. The relationship with the health care staff is reported as a decisive ingredient of the experience in health care. Future research is needed to develop awareness-raising interventions for health care staff to improve FUED experiences in health care.