bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation on Cooling Performance of Water Spray Window
Authors: Yang Xiu , He Jiang , Zhang Yuanyao , Huang Guanghong , Wang Junli , Liao Linghui
Published: June 2024

The cooling performance of the energy-saving water spray window cooling system under summer conditions in Nanning city in southern China, is experimentally examined in this study. By constructing two identical test rooms for comparison, in the experiment we analyzed the effects of water temperature (22 °C, 26 °C, 30 °C), spray frequency (8, 10, 12, 15 min intervals), glass structure (single-layer, double-layer, triple-layer), air conditioning temperature (26 °C, 27 °C, 28 °C, 29 °C), and outer lamination thickness (30, 50, 100, 200 mm) on the cooling effect of windows, aiming to determine the optimal operating conditions. The experimental outcomes demonstrate that the appropriate operating mode for the water spray window system involves using the coldest water source (22 °C), with a spray interval of 8 min, a three-layer air cavity sprayed glass construction, an air cavity thickness set at 100 mm, and the best air conditioning temperature (26 °C). The study found that the water spray system can reduce the outer glass surface temperature of the window by 6 °C and the inner surface temperature by 2 °C. Moreover, the more glass layers and the thicker the lamination, the higher the energy saving rate; with a maximum energy saving rate of 35.19%. The water spray window has good adaptability and significant energy-saving effects in Southeast Asia. By scientifically selecting energy-saving glass types and fine-tuning operating modes, it is expected that efficient building energy conservation in hot climates can be achieved.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Morphology in High-Rise Residential Areas for Outdoor Thermal Comfort in Yulin City, Northwest China
Authors: Meng Yuan , Hao Yunqi , Que Yufei , Ren Juan , Liu Yu
Published: June 2024

Urban residential areas significantly influence outdoor thermal comfort through architectural morphology. This study concentrates on the multi-objective optimization of the thermal comfort environment in residential areas, with a focus on Yulin—a city in the cold, inland region of Northwestern China. Yulin is characterized by its distinctly defined seasons, particularly harsh and windy conditions in the spring, which significantly impact thermal comfort. Utilizing field surveys, characteristics of scale and layout from high-rise residential areas in Yulin were extracted to formulate design strategies adapted to local climates. The Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) served as the optimization criterion, and genetic algorithms, integrated with parametric modeling software, generated multiple layout schemes. These were refined through the Pareto evolutionary algorithm II to optimize thermal comfort across seasons. Furthermore, the Sobol’ sensitivity analysis method was employed to assess the impact of key parameters on outdoor thermal comfort, identifying crucial layout design elements. The optimization improved UTCI values for different seasons, ensuring year-round comfort. Specifically, summer UTCI improved to 25.51, while winter and spring values reached optimal values of −14.02 and −6.41, demonstrating enhanced thermal retention and reduced wind exposure. Sobol’ sensitivity analysis identified building length, orientation, and density as key parameters, highlighting their critical impact on thermal comfort. This study offers practical guidelines for urban residential area design in similar climatic zones, aligning architectural planning with environmental sustainability and enhancing thermal comfort effectively. This study provides practical guidelines for the design of residential areas in cold inland—seasonal windy—regions and other similar climatic zones, aligning building morphology design with environmental sustainability and enhancing thermal comfort effectively.
A Fully Prefabricated Pile-Wall Composite Scheme of Open-Cut Tunnel and the Mechanical Behavior of the Composite Structure during Construction
Authors: Ma Shaolin , Li Zhaoping , Fu Ruian
Published: June 2024

In open-cut assembled subway tunnels, foundation pit enclosure piles are typically cast in place. However, this conventional approach limits the functionality of the piles to serving as retaining structures during excavation, resulting in resource inefficiency and the underutilization of prefabrication techniques. To address this issue, a fully prefabricated pile-wall composite scheme is proposed for cut-and-cover tunnels to optimize the retaining effect of the piles and leverage the benefits of prefabricated technology. In this scheme, the retaining pile and lining are both prefabricated. The pile is the temporary retaining structure during pit excavation and a part of the sidewall. This scheme was researched and applied in Jinan, China. Field monitoring and numerical simulation were used to investigate the load transfer within the fully prefabricated pile-wall composite structure (PPWS) and its mechanical response, respectively. The results show: (1) The development of lateral earth pressures on the PPWS experienced three stages. The lateral earth pressure distribution indicates that the PPWS can fully activate the retaining effect of precast piles. (2) Following the backfilling of the joints, the horizontal displacement at the bottom of the precast pile reduced by 0.39 mm. Numerical simulation results indicate the effectiveness of precast pile restraint in PPWS. (3) The PPWS exhibited uniform deformation transition at the joints. The joints play a crucial role in coordinating deformation between the precast piles and sidewalls, utilizing the restraining effect of the precast piles.
Prospects and Potential for Chimerism Analysis after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Miura Saori , Ueda Koki , Minakawa Keiji , Nollet Kenneth E. , Ikeda Kazuhiko
Published: June 2024

Chimerism analysis after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation serves to confirm engraftment, indicate relapse of hematologic malignancy, and attribute graft failure to either immune rejection or poor graft function. Short tandem repeat PCR (STR-PCR) is the prevailing method, followed by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), with detection limits of 1–5% and 0.1%, respectively. Chimerism assays using digital PCR or next-generation sequencing, both of which are more sensitive than STR-PCR, are increasingly used. Stable mixed chimerism is usually not associated with poor outcomes in non-malignant diseases, but recipient chimerism may foretell relapse of hematologic malignancies, so higher detection sensitivity may be beneficial in such cases. Thus, the need for and the type of intervention, e.g., immunosuppression regimen, donor lymphocyte infusion, and/or salvage second transplantation, should be guided by donor chimerism in the context of the feature and/or residual malignant cells of the disease to be treated.
Predictive Role of NLR, dNLR, PLR, NLPR, and Other Laboratory Markers in Diagnosing SIRS in Premature Newborns
Authors: Pantea Manuela , Iacob Daniela , Bortea Claudia Ioana , Enatescu Ileana , Barbos Vlad , Prodan Mihaela , Tudor Raluca , Cozma Gabriel Veniamin
Published: June 2024

Background: Premature newborns are at a significant risk for Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome SIRS, a condition associated with high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the predictive and diagnostic capability of laboratory markers like Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), derived Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (dNLR), Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), and Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte-to-Platelet Ratio (NLPR) in diagnosing SIRS in premature newborns. Methods: Premature newborns with and without SIRS were evaluated in a prospective design during a one-year period. Among 136 newborns, early and 72 h post-birth analyses were performed. Results: At 24 h, NLR’s cutoff value was 8.69, yielding sensitivity and specificity rates of 52.77% and 83.47% (p = 0.0429), respectively. The dNLR showed a cutoff of 5.61, with corresponding rates of 63.27% and 84.15% (p = 0.0011), PLR had a cutoff of 408.75, with rates of 51.89% and 80.22% (p = 0.1026), and NLPR displayed a cutoff of 0.24, with rates of 75.85% and 86.70% (p = 0.0002). At 72 h, notable sensitivity and specificity improvements were observed, particularly with NLPR having a cutoff of 0.17, showing sensitivity of 77.74% and specificity of 95.18% (p < 0.0001). NLR above the cutoff indicated a 33% increase in SIRS risk, with a hazard ratio (HR)of 1.33. The dNLR was associated with a twofold increase in risk (HR 2.04). NLPR demonstrated a significant, over threefold increase in SIRS risk (HR 3.56), underscoring its strong predictive and diagnostic value for SIRS development. Conclusion: Integrating these findings into clinical practice could enhance neonatal care by facilitating the early identification and management of SIRS, potentially improving outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Case Report: The Rehabilitation of a Patient with Acute Transverse Myelitis after COVID-19 Vaccination
Authors: Niebrzydowski Piotr , Kusiak-Kaczmarek Małgorzata , Tomaszewski Jarosław , Gmiński Maciej , Szalewska Dominika
Published: June 2024

We report the case of a 55-year-old man with multi-symptomatic transverse myelitis after vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The patient was diagnosed based on the course of the disease and the results of imaging and laboratory tests. We excluded other most probable causes of the disease. The quick start of diagnosis allowed for early treatment with intravenous steroids and then plasmapheresis and the implementation of modern rehabilitation methods using biofeedback platforms, among others, and an exoskeleton. The patient returned to work, but the rehabilitation process continues to this day due to persistent symptoms that impair the patient’s quality of life.
Feature Papers in Compounds (2022–2023)
Authors: Mejuto Juan C.
Published: June 2024

Compounds was born in 2021 as an interdisciplinary journal with a clear vocation towards the scientific community and a tool to present its scientific achievements in an open access format that would allow a rapid and efficient dissemination of its scientific results in the field of chemistry [...]
Hospitalisations Due to Dental Infection: A Retrospective Clinical Audit from an Australian Public Hospital
Authors: Ullah Mafaz , Irshad Muhammad , Yaacoub Albert , Carter Eric , Cox Stephen
Published: June 2024

The aim of this clinical audit is to evaluate the characteristics of dental infections requiring hospitalisations, which may help improve preventative and management policies. This study retrospectively evaluated the records of patients admitted to the Nepean hospital, Kingswood, New South Wales, Australia, due to dental infections between 2018 and 2019. A total of 102 patients, mostly in their thirties with equal gender distribution, were admitted with dental infections, presenting with pain (100%), swelling (99%), trismus (40.2%), dysphagia (27.4%), fever (21%) [>37 °C], tachycardia (24.8%) and tachypnoea (9.3%). Most patients (68%) presented on weekends, outside regular working hours, and public holidays. A total of 52.5% of patients had taken prior antibiotics. Dental caries, smoking, mental health issues, and illicit drug use were featured strongly. The majority of patients (56.4%) underwent treatment under local anaesthesia. The total length of hospital stay was 271 days (mean 2.7, SD 1.6). Augmentin was the most prescribed antibiotic. Complications were reported in 8.8% of the patients, primarily due to airway compromise. Dental infections leading to hospitalisations continue to be a burden on the healthcare system. A notable finding was that the presentations were primarily on weekends, outside regular working hours, and public holidays, and the majority required dental interventions under local anaesthesia. The provision of on-call emergency dental services may reduce potentially preventable hospitalisations and the length of hospital stay.
The Effects of External Debt and Foreign Direct Investment on Economic Growth in Nigeria
Authors: Akinola Gbenga Wilfred , Ohonba Abieyuwa
Published: June 2024

Economic theory argues that foreign direct investment (FDI) and external debt are expected to enhance economic growth in any given economy. Consequently, this study (i) investigated the relationship between foreign direct investment, external debt servicing, and economic growth in Nigeria; (ii) investigated how foreign direct investment and external debt impact Nigeria’s economic growth; and (iii) analyzed the direction of causality among the three macroeconomic variables. Descriptive statistics, time series autoregressive distributive lag, and robust Granger causality tests were adopted as the estimating techniques. The results showed that from 2011 to 2022, Nigeria’s FDI continued to decline, Nigeria’s external debt servicing continued to grow on an upward trajectory, and the growth of the GDP has been meandering. ARDL analysis results confirmed that the lag of FDI and current exchange rate exert positive effects on current economic growth in Nigeria, with a 1% increase in FDI, current external debt, and current exchange rate increasing growth by 1.49%, 1.58%, and 0.02%, respectively. Results from the Granger causality showed that FDI and external debt do Granger cause GDP in Nigeria. Policymakers should focus on prudent debt management practices and strive to reduce domestic debt levels.
Influence of Karen Immigrant Students on Teachers’ Instructional Decisions in the Rural United States
Authors: Armstrong Ashley N. , Slater Timothy F.
Published: June 2024

Across the United States, the number of classrooms welcoming young students who are new English language learners (ELL) is rapidly growing. Motivated by a dramatic increase in the number of Myanmar- and Burma-originating immigrants now attending English-speaking schools in the rural, upper midwestern United States, this study systematically considers how the presence of Karen immigrant students impacts the instructional decisions that K-12 classroom teachers make using an exploratory case study method. Several recurrent themes emerged, and findings can be used to help better prepare both pre-service and in-service teachers to meet the needs of their ELL students, as well as policy makers. These emergent themes include the following: (a) authentic teacher–family relationships are key; (b) visual/hands-on learning and the use of technology enhance student achievement; (c) student work must be completed during the school day in classrooms; (d) teachers’ purposeful use of parallel language is critical for learning; (e) rigor can be maintained, although quantity is often adjusted; and (f) targeted ESL/cultural training for pre-service and newly hired teachers is positively influential. Such informed training often seems to help teachers learn key cultural distinctions and become better able to identify the most effective ways to meet the needs of students.
Validation and Standardization of a Questionnaire for the Self-Assessment of Service-Learning Experiences in Higher Education (QaSLu-27)
Authors: López-de-Arana Prado Elena , Aramburuzabala Pilar , Cerrillo Rosario , Sánchez-Cabrero Roberto
Published: June 2024

There has been a proliferation of service-learning practices in many disciplines of higher education. Although there are many instruments to assess various aspects related to service-learning, only a few are valid and reliable. This research tries to fill that gap by providing an optimal instrument. To this end, 118 educators from 43 higher education institutions participated in the validation process. Sampling was incidental and based on opportunity. Participants were asked to fill in the Questionnaire for the Self-assessment of University Service-learning Experiences—45 (QaSLu-45), which consists of 45 items with a 5-point Likert scale and was validated qualitatively through the Delphi method in 2020. To validate the questionnaire psychometrically, four steps were followed. First, an exploratory factor analysis of the main components was performed. Next, robust unweighted least squares factor exploratory analysis was carried out. Then, the goodness-of-fit and reliability of the final questionnaire were calculated. Finally, the scales for the new reduced QaSLu-27 were established. These results provide a valid, robust, reliable instrument, the QaSLu-27, which not only facilitates the evaluation of service-learning experiences for improving teaching and learning processes but can also be useful for their design.
Position Estimation Method for Small Drones Based on the Fusion of Multisource, Multimodal Data and Digital Twins
Authors: Qu Shaochun , Cui Jian , Cao Zijian , Qiao Yongxing , Men Xuemeng , Fu Yanfang
Published: June 2024

In response to the issue of low positioning accuracy and insufficient robustness in small UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicle) caused by sensor noise and cumulative motion errors during flight in complex environments, this paper proposes a multisource, multimodal data fusion method. Initially, it employs a multimodal data fusion of various sensors, including GPS (global positioning system), an IMU (inertial measurement unit), and visual sensors, to complement the strengths and weaknesses of each hardware component, thereby mitigating motion errors to enhance accuracy. To mitigate the impact of sudden changes in sensor data, a high-fidelity UAV model is established in the digital twin based on the real UAV parameters, providing a robust reference for data fusion. By utilizing the extended Kalman filter algorithm, it fuses data from both the real UAV and its digital twin, and the filtered positional information is fed back into the control system of the real UAV. This enables the real-time correction of UAV positional deviations caused by sensor noise and environmental disturbances. The multisource, multimodal fusion Kalman filter method proposed in this paper significantly improves the positioning accuracy of UAVs in complex scenarios and the overall stability of the system. This method holds significant value in maintaining high-precision positioning in variable environments and has important practical implications for enhancing UAV navigation and application efficiency.
A Light-Field Video Dataset of Scenes with Moving Objects Captured with a Plenoptic Video Camera
Authors: Javidi Kamran , Martini Maria G.
Published: June 2024

Light-field video provides a detailed representation of scenes captured from different perspectives. This results in a visualisation modality that enhances the immersion and engagement of the viewers with the depicted environment. In order to perform research on compression, transmission and signal processing of light field data, datasets with light-field contents of different categories and acquired with different modalities are required. In particular, the development of machine learning models for quality assessment and for light-field processing, including the generation of new views, require large amounts of data. Most existing datasets consist of static scenes and, in many cases, synthetic contents. This paper presents a novel light-field plenoptic video dataset, KULFR8, involving six real-world scenes with moving objects and 336 distorted light-field videos derived from the original contents; in total, the original scenes in the dataset contain 1800 distinctive frames, with angular resolution of 5×5 with and total spatial resolution of 9600×5400 pixels (considering all the views); overall, the dataset consists of 45,000 different views with spatial resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. We analyse the content characteristics based on the dimensions of the captured objects and via the acquired videos using the central views extracted from each quilted frame. Additionally, we encode and decode the contents using various video encoders across different bitrate ranges. For quality assessments, we consider all the views, utilising frames measuring 9600×5400 pixels, and employ two objective quality metrics: PSNR and SSIM.
Capacitive and Non-Contact Liquid Level Detection Sensor Based on Interdigitated Electrodes with Flexible Substrate
Authors: Ren Yong , Luo Bin , Feng Xueyu , Feng Zihao , Song Yanyi , Yan Fang
Published: June 2024

Achieving accurate and high-sensitivity liquid level detection in medical instruments has always been a knotty task. In this paper, a high-precision, non-contact, flexible capacitive liquid level sensor is proposed, aiming to apply capacitive sensors in test tube liquid level measurement and improving the sensitivity of real-time liquid level sensors. The simulation study is conducted using ANSYS Maxwell and demonstrates the correlation between test tube thickness and sensitivity. A geometric model of the test container and sensing electrodes is established to optimize the design strategy for the physical dimensions of the sensor’s interdigitated (IDT) electrodes based on a flexible printed circuit (FPC). The hardware and software designs are completed based on the FDC2214 capacitive-to-digital converter to collect the capacitance variation data of the sensing electrodes accurately. To assess the system’s performance, an experimental platform for a liquid level sensor system has been constructed, facilitating the measurement, communication, processing, and visualization of liquid levels. The performance results demonstrate that the system is capable of accurately measuring the effective liquid level range within a standard 5 mL test tube with a resolution of up to 1 mm, as well as a sensitivity of 78.68 fF/mm, verifying the simulation results and exhibiting excellent linearity.
Analysis of Chlorpyrifos Pesticide Residue in Locally Grown Cauliflower, Cabbage, and Eggplant Using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Technique: A Bangladesh Perspective
Authors: Momtaz Mysha , Khan Mohidus Samad
Published: June 2024

Pesticides are chemical substances used to kill or control various types of pests, which are hazardous for crops and animals. Pesticides may remain on or in foods after these are applied to crops. Pesticide residue in food has been a major global concern since there are direct and indirect health hazards associated with the regular consumption of foods with pesticide residues. Chlorpyrifos is one of the most used pesticides that has received much attention worldwide due to its detrimental health impact. The presence of chlorpyrifos residue in food crops can have both long-term and short-term effects on consumer health. Bangladesh is an agricultural country that uses a high volume of pesticides every year including chlorpyrifos. This experimental study aimed to analyze chlorpyrifos pesticide residue in locally grown cauliflower, cabbage, and eggplant samples by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technique followed by a suitable extraction process. Commercially available cauliflower, cabbage, and eggplant samples along with samples cultivated with the recommended pesticide dose were collected for qualitative and quantitative analysis. Samples cultivated without chlorpyrifos were collected as control samples for the validation study. The method was validated with respect to accuracy, recovery, reproducibility, linearity, limit of detection, and limit of quantification. The method has a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.011 mg/kg and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.034 mg/kg. The experimental results were compared to the maximum residue level (MRL) to assess the human health impact. Chlorpyrifos residue was found in 44% of cauliflower samples with 91% of samples higher than MRL. The residue was found in 68% of cabbage samples with 53% of samples higher than MRL. For eggplant, the residue was found in 80% of the samples with 65% of samples higher than MRL. The risk assessment based on the residue level found in this study shows a potential health hazard of having a high concentration of chlorpyrifos residue in locally grown vegetables.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Barley Sprout Fermented by Lactic Acid Bacteria in RAW264.7 Macrophages and Caco-2 Cells
Authors: Kim Sang-Hyun , Shim Youn Young , Kim Young Jun , Reaney Martin J. T. , Chung Mi Ja
Published: June 2024

The anti-inflammatory effects of supernatants produced from sprouted barley inoculated with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KCTC3104 (Lp), Leuconostoc mesenteroides KCTC3530 (Lm), Latilactobacillus curvatus KCTC3767 (Lc), or a mixture of these lactic acid bacteria were investigated using RAW264.7 macrophages. BLp and BLc, the lyophilized supernatants of fermented sprouted barley inoculated with Lp and Lc, respectively, effectively reduced the nitric oxide (NO) levels hypersecreted by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 and LPS-stimulated Caco-2 cells. BLp and BLc effectively reduced the NO levels in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages, and these effects tended to be concentration-dependent. BLc and BLp also exhibited strong DPPH radical scavenging activity and immunostimulatory effects. BLp and BLc significantly suppressed the levels of NO and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages and LPS-stimulated Caco-2 cells, indicating their anti-inflammatory effects. These effects were greater than those of unfermented barley sprout (Bs). The functional components of Bs, BLp, and BLc were analyzed by HPLC, and it was found that lutonarin and saponarin were significantly increased in the fermented sprouted barley sample inoculated with Lp and Lc (BLp and BLc).
Several Feature Extraction Methods Combined with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Identifying the Geographical Origins of Milk
Authors: Wu Xiaohong , Wang Yixuan , He Chengyu , Wu Bin , Zhang Tingfei , Sun Jun
Published: June 2024

Milk is a kind of dairy product with high nutritive value. Tracing the origin of milk can uphold the interests of consumers as well as the stability of the dairy market. In this study, a fuzzy direct linear discriminant analysis (FDLDA) is proposed to extract the near-infrared spectral information of milk by combining fuzzy set theory with direct linear discriminant analysis (DLDA). First, spectral data of the milk samples were collected by a portable NIR spectrometer. Then, the data were preprocessed by Savitzky–Golay (SG) and standard normal variables (SNV) to reduce noise, and the dimensionality of the spectral data was decreased by principal component analysis (PCA). Furthermore, linear discriminant analysis (LDA), DLDA, and FDLDA were employed to transform the spectral data into feature space. Finally, the k-nearest neighbor (KNN) classifier, extreme learning machine (ELM) and naïve Bayes classifier were used for classification. The results of the study showed that the classification accuracy of FDLDA was higher than DLDA when the KNN classifier was used. The highest recognition accuracy of FDLDA, DLDA, and LDA could reach 97.33%, 94.67%, and 94.67%. The classification accuracy of FDLDA was also higher than DLDA when using ELM and naïve Bayes classifiers, but the highest recognition accuracy was 88.24% and 92.00%, respectively. Therefore, the KNN classifier outperformed the ELM and naïve Bayes classifiers. This study demonstrated that combining FDLDA, DLDA, and LDA with NIR spectroscopy as an effective method for determining the origin of milk.
Rod-Shaped Starch from Galanga: Physicochemical Properties, Fine Structure and In Vitro Digestibility
Authors: Li Shanshan , He Rui , Liu Jiaqi , Chen Ying , Yang Tao , Pan Kun
Published: June 2024

This work investigated the physicochemical properties, structural characteristics, and digestive properties of two non-conventional starches extracted from Galanga: Alpinia officinarum Hance starch (AOS) and Alpinia galanga Willd starch (AGS). The extraction rates of the two starches were 22.10 wt% and 15.73 wt%, which is lower than widely studied ginger (Zingiber officinale, ZOS). But they contained similar amounts of basic constituents. AOS and AGS showed a smooth, elongated shape, while ZOS was an oval sheet shape. AOS and ZOS were C-type starches, and AGS was an A-type starch. AOS showed the highest crystallinity (35.26 ± 1.02%) among the three starches, possessed a higher content of amylose (24.14 ± 0.73%) and a longer amylose average chain length (1419.38 ± 31.28) than AGS. AGS starch exhibits the highest viscosity at all stages, while AOS starch shows the lowest pasting temperature, and ZOS starch, due to its high amylose content, displays lower peak and trough viscosities. Significant differences were also found in the physicochemical properties of the three starches, including the swelling power, solubility, thermal properties, and rheological properties of the three starches. The total content of resistant starch (RS) and slowly digestible starch (SDS) in AOS (81.05%), AGS (81.46%), and ZOS (82.58%) are considered desirable. These findings proved to be valuable references for further research and utilization of ginger family starch.
Postmortem Gone Astray—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Šoša Ivan , Perković Manuela
Published: June 2024

Premortem clinical diagnoses and postmortem autopsy findings do not match historically. These clinicopathological discrepancies are expected to be higher during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic due to increased pressure on healthcare. At the same time, autopsies and clinicopathological discrepancies accurately display the quality of the healthcare system. To assess that, we examined the relevant works of literature according to the PRISMA-based protocol. As a discrepancy rate change-related antemortem scrutiny of medical care in the hospital, we also checked whether studies with patients from the intensive care unit (ICU) differed in discrepancies significantly. We found similar overall risk differences in “pre-COVID” and “during the pandemic” groups of studies. Based on this, we concluded that healthcare quality did not drop significantly during the pandemic. Be that as it may, the pandemic exposed some shortcomings in mortem healthcare regarding consensus to the autopsy, organ retention, burial, and the postponed burial or the digitalization of postmortem healthcare. All of these issues should be addressed in the future.
A Hypothesis of Conspiracy to Re-Enchant the World
Authors: Scacco Sofia
Published: June 2024

Many scholars have understood conspiracy theories as sense-making mechanisms. Among them, a particular strand further inspected them in parallel with religion and magic. This comparison bears the risk of framing conspiracy theories as irrational interpretations and anachronisms with respect to contemporary ways of explaining reality. This contribution takes off from the reflections of those who have highlighted this risk. It tries to confront the possibility of using the concept of enchantment without implying a normative judgment on the irrationality of conspiracy theories. This paper carries out this effort by closely inspecting Max Weber’s texts. I argue that Weber’s notion of enchantment and disenchantment allows for a punctual use of both, devoid of normative implications. After setting out this non-normative notion of enchantment, this paper examines the characteristics of the enchanted worldview and its usefulness in reading conspiracy theories. Finally, this paper supports this effort using the identified characteristics to systematise a reading of conspiracy-based accounts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dipping Tidal Notch (DTN): Exposed vs. Sheltered Morphometry
Authors: Furlani Stefano , Agate Mauro , de Sabata Eleonora , Chemello Renato , Vaccher Valeria , Visconti Giulia , Antonioli Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

Tidal notches, long regarded as reliable indicators of mean sea level, have been extensively studied along carbonate coasts in the central Mediterranean Sea. Previous studies revealed a correlation between the genesis of tidal notches and tidal range, lithology, cliff foot depth, and wave energy. In the 2020 Geoswim campaigns at Lampedusa, the southernmost island of the Pelagie archipelago (Italy), and in Gozo Island (Malta), ‘anomalous’ tidal notches were identified. Unlike normal notches observed elsewhere, those in Lampedusa’s southern bays exhibited a particular behaviour—constantly deepening in the inner part of the bays, reaching a maximum depth of approximately 30 cm below sea level and narrowing inwards. Similar phenomena were previously observed near Marseille (France). As confirmed by the literature, all these areas are tectonically stable. Time-lapse images, alongside measurements of morphometric parameters, were collected during the survey. Our hypothesis indicates that a combination of marine factors influenced by local marine conditions driven by the local morphology of the small bays exposed to southern quadrants contribute to the formation of these unique landforms. The latter manifests higher lowering erosion rates slightly below the mean sea level in sheltered areas, challenging conventional notions about tidal notch formation.
Effects of Visual Art Therapy on Positive Symptoms, Negative Symptoms, and Emotions in Individuals with Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Du Shih-Cing , Li Chih-Yen , Lo Ya-Yun , Hu Yu-Hsuan , Hsu Chi-Wei , Cheng Chung-Yin , Chen Tzu-Ting , Hung Pei-Hsuan , Lin Pao-Yen , Chen Chyi-Rong
Published: June 2024

Schizophrenia is characterized by psychiatric symptoms and emotional issues. While pharmacological treatments have limitations, non-pharmacological interventions are essential. Art therapy has the potential to enhance emotional expression, communication, and health; however, the effectiveness of visual art therapy remains uncertain. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesizes the findings of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of visual art therapy on positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and emotions in patients with schizophrenia. This study reviews RCTs published prior to February, 2024. The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CEPS, CNKI, Wanfang, and Yiigle databases were searched, and three independent researchers screened the studies. In this meta-analysis, standardized mean difference (SMD) was employed as a measure to calculate effect sizes for continuous variables using a random effects model, while the meta-regression and subgroup analyses were performed with patient and intervention characteristics. A total of 31 studies revealed visual art therapy had a significant small-to-moderate effect on positive symptoms (SMD = 0.407, 95% CI 0.233 to 0.581), a moderate effect on negative symptoms (SMD = 0.697, 95% CI 0.514 to 0.880), a moderate effect on depression (SMD = 0.610, 95% CI 0.398 to 0.821), and a large effect on anxiety (SMD = 0.909, 95% CI 0.386 to 1.433). The subgroup analysis revealed painting and handcrafts had significant effects on positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and emotions. Combined Chinese calligraphy and painting had significant effects on positive symptoms, depression, and anxiety. Better improvement was noted among the Asian population, and a longer weekly treatment duration was associated with better improvement in positive symptoms. Female participants tended to have more improvements in negative symptoms and anxiety through visual art therapy. The results indicate that visual art therapy has positive effects on the psychiatric symptoms and emotions of individuals with schizophrenia. We recommend future research further investigate art therapy modalities and durations.
Research on Rural Environments’ Effects on Well-Being: The Huizhou Area in China
Authors: Ma Xingmeng , Su Xin , Guo Yanlong , Zhang Linfu
Published: June 2024

The Huizhou region is an important area of traditional Chinese culture, and currently, the state of the village’s surroundings in this area is still not perfect. In this study, seven districts (counties) in the Huizhou region were selected for research. The Rural Habitat Environment (RHES) Indicator Program is based on the concept of Socio-Economic-Natural Complex Ecosystems (SENCE) and constructs 18 metrics in three dimensions. Trends and influencing factors were analyzed using entropy weight TOPSIS and a Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) for the years 2013–2022, and spatial and temporal evolution was measured using Geographic Information Systems (GISs). The findings show that the composite index for the Huizhou region grew from 2013 (0.3197) to 2022 (0.6806). Second, the Tunxi District belongs to the high index–high economy category. The Shexian, Xiuning, and Qimen counties belong to the high index–low economy category. Huizhou District and Huangshan District belong to the low index–high economy category. Yixian County belongs to the low index–low economy category. Third, all districts (counties) show an upward trend, and Huangshan District has the best RHES condition. Shexian County ranks relatively low in the comprehensive index.
Is the Advent of New Surgical Procedures Changing the Baseline Features of Patients Undergoing First-Time Glaucoma Surgery?
Authors: Palma Alessandro , Covello Giuseppe , Posarelli Chiara , Maglionico Maria Novella , Agnifili Luca , Figus Michele
Published: June 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to determine if the rise in new surgical procedures for glaucoma is changing the baseline features of patients. Methods: In this retrospective study, we reviewed the baseline features of patients undergoing their first glaucoma surgery in 2011 and 2021, collecting data regarding intraocular pressure (IOP), visual field (VF) parameters, stage of disease, and the type of surgery. Results: In the study, 455 patients were included in the analysis. From these, 230 eyes had glaucoma surgery performed in 2011 (Group A) and 225 eyes in 2021 (Group B). When considering the baseline features, Group A was older than Group B (72.7 ± 10.7 and 70 ± 12.4 years; p = 0.02, respectively), and showed a significantly more advanced VF mean defect (−16.4 ± 8.8 and −13.8 ± 8.7 dB; p < 0.01, respectively) and a higher IOP (25.9 ± 6.6 and 24.9 ± 7.8 mmHg; p = 0.02, respectively). Overall, severe VF damage at the time of surgery was more frequent in Group A (74.3%) than in Group B (60.8%) (p < 0.01). The overall number of traditional glaucoma surgeries was 211 in 2011, reducing to 94 ten years later, with similar severe pre-operative VF defects. In 2021, minimally invasive bleb surgery (MIBS) represented 58% of all surgeries. Conclusions: In the last ten years, patients receiving glaucoma surgery for the first time were younger, had less severe disease, and a more contained IOP. The baseline feature modifications were probably related to the diffusion of new procedures, especially MIBS, which allowed for treating patients at an earlier stage, reserving traditional procedures for advanced cases.
Rethinking Strategies for Multi-Metastatic Patients: A Comprehensive Retrospective Analysis on Open Posterior Fusion Versus Percutaneous Osteosynthesis in the Treatment of Vertebral Metastases
Authors: Scaramuzzo Laura , Perna Andrea , Velluto Calogero , Borruto Maria Ilaria , Gorgoglione Franco Lucio , Proietti Luca
Published: June 2024

Background: Managing vertebral metastases (VM) is still challenging in oncology, necessitating the use of effective surgical strategies to preserve patient quality of life (QoL). Traditional open posterior fusion (OPF) and percutaneous osteosynthesis (PO) are well-documented approaches, but their comparative efficacy remains debated. Methods: This retrospective study compared short-term outcomes (6–12 months) between OPF and PO in 78 cancer patients with spinal metastases. This comprehensive evaluation included functional, clinical, and radiographic parameters. Statistical analysis utilized PRISM software (version 10), with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: PO demonstrated advantages over OPF, including shorter surgical durations, reduced blood loss, and hospital stay, along with lower perioperative complication rates. Patient quality of life and functional outcomes favored PO, particularly at the 6-month mark. The mortality rates at one year were significantly lower in the PO group. Conclusions: Minimally invasive techniques offer promising benefits in VM management, optimizing patient outcomes and QoL. Despite limitations, this study advocates for the adoption of minimally invasive approaches to enhance the care of multi-metastatic patients with symptomatic VM.
Analysis of the Initial Learning Curve for Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty Using the ROSA® Knee System
Authors: Neira Inmaculada , Llopis Rafael , Cuadrado Luis , Fernández David , Villanueva Enrique , Nuño Néstor , Forriol Francisco
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a frequent procedure in orthopedic surgery. Advances in TKA include the development of robotic-assisted systems. Training in raTKA entails a learning curve to achieve proficiency comparable to conventional manual TKA (maTKA). Methods: We conducted a prospective study of the learning curve in raTKA using the Robotic Surgical Assistant (ROSA) Knee System. The study included 180 patients (90 raTKAs; 90 maTKAs) and three surgeons (one with >15 years of experience in maTKA). The cumulative sum control chart method (CUSUM) was used to define the transition from the learning phase to the mastered phase in raTKA. Results: The learning curves were 43 cases (experienced surgeons) and 61 cases (all surgeons). Mean operative times for both phases in raTKA were longer than in maTKA (p < 0.001). In raTKA, operative times in the learning phase were longer compared to those in the mastered phase (p < 0.001). Operative times in the learning and mastered phases for all surgeons in raTKA were significantly longer compared to those in maTKA (p < 0.001); however, operative times of the experienced surgeon in the mastered phase of raTKA and in maTKA showed no differences. Conclusions: The learning curve in raTKA is dependent upon the surgeon’s previous experience in maTKA.
Unsupervised Content Mining in CBIR: Harnessing Latent Diffusion for Complex Text-Based Query Interpretation
Authors: Gopu Venkata Rama Muni Kumar , Dunna Madhavi
Published: June 2024

The paper demonstrates a novel methodology for Content-Based Image Retrieval (CBIR), which shifts the focus from conventional domain-specific image queries to more complex text-based query processing. Latent diffusion models are employed to interpret complex textual prompts and address the requirements of effectively interpreting the complex textual query. Latent Diffusion models successfully transform complex textual queries into visually engaging representations, establishing a seamless connection between textual descriptions and visual content. Custom triplet network design is at the heart of our retrieval method. When trained well, a triplet network will represent the generated query image and the different images in the database. The cosine similarity metric is used to assess the similarity between the feature representations in order to find and retrieve the relevant images. Our experiments results show that latent diffusion models can successfully bridge the gap between complex textual prompts for image retrieval without relying on labels or metadata that are attached to database images. This advancement sets the stage for future explorations in image retrieval, leveraging the generative AI capabilities to cater to the ever-evolving demands of big data and complex query interpretations.
Application of a Statistical Regression Technique for Dynamic Analysis of Submarine Pipelines
Authors: Dagli Begum Yurdanur
Published: June 2024

This study employs a statistical regression technique to investigate the maximum displacement, stress, and natural vibration frequencies of a submarine pipeline subjected to hydrodynamic wave forces. Eighteen pipeline models are designed, varying in wall thickness from 10 mm to 30 mm and diameter from 500 mm to 1000 mm. The hydrodynamic drag and inertia forces are performed by using the Morison equation. Computer-aided Finite Element Analysis is employed to simulate the complex interactions between the fluid and structure in 18 pipelines. Multiple Regression technique is used to evaluate the reliability metrics, considering uncertainties in geometrical properties affecting pipeline performance. Full Quadratic models are developed for expressing more effective and concise mathematical equations. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) is performed to determine the adequacy of the model in representing the observed data. The Coefficient of Determination (R2), Mean Square Error (MSE), and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) are calculated to assess the equation’s predictive accuracy and reliability. The results confirm the suitability of the suggested regression technique for analyzing the relationships between predictor variables and the response variable.
Investigation of the Microbial Diversity in the Oryza sativa Cultivation Environment and Artificial Transplantation of Microorganisms to Improve Sustainable Mycobiota
Authors: Shi Yeu-Ching , Zheng Yu-Juan , Lin Yi-Ching , Huang Cheng-Hao , Shen Tang-Long , Hsu Yu-Chia , Lee Bao-Hong
Published: June 2024

Rice straw is not easy to decompose, it takes a long time to compost, and the anaerobic bacteria involved in the decomposition process produce a large amount of carbon dioxide (CO2), indicating that applications for rice straw need to be developed. Recycling rice straw in agricultural crops is an opportunity to increase the sustainability of grain production. Several studies have shown that the probiotic population gradually decreases in the soil, leading to an increased risk of plant diseases and decreased biomass yield. Because the microorganisms in the soil are related to the growth of plants, when the soil microbial community is imbalanced it seriously affects plant growth. We investigated the feasibility of using composted rice stalks to artificially cultivate microorganisms obtained from the Oryza sativa-planted environment for analyzing the mycobiota and evaluating applications for sustainable agriculture. Microbes obtained from the water-submerged part (group-A) and soil part (group-B) of O. sativa were cultured in an artificial medium, and the microbial diversity was analyzed with internal transcribed spacer sequencing. Paddy field soil was mixed with fermented paddy straw compost, and the microbes obtained from the soil used for O. sativa planting were designated as group-C. The paddy fields transplanted with artificially cultured microbes from group-A were designated as group-D and those from group-B were designated as group-E. We found that fungi and yeasts can be cultured in groups-A and -B. These microbes altered the soil mycobiota in the paddy fields after transplantation in groups-D and -E compared to groups-A and -B. Development in O. sativa post treatment with microbial transplantation was observed in the groups-D and -E compared to group-C. These results showed that artificially cultured microorganisms could be efficiently transplanted into the soil and improve the mycobiota. Phytohormones were involved in improving O. sativa growth and rice yield via the submerged part-derived microbial medium (group-D) or the soil part-derived microbial medium (group-E) treatments. Collectively, these fungi and yeasts may be applied in microbial transplantation via rice straw fermentation to repair soil mycobiota imbalances, facilitating plant growth and sustainable agriculture. These fungi and yeasts may be applied in microbial transplantation to repair soil mycobiota imbalances and sustainable agriculture.