bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflections of a First-Year Chemistry Teacher: Intersecting PCK, Responsiveness, and Inquiry Instruction
Authors: Morris Dana Lynn
Published: January 2024

Many educators agree that science instruction should be dominated by inquiry strategies, while others stress the need for responsive practices to place a focus on student learning and understanding. Some scholars believe the two approaches exist on opposite ends of an instructional spectrum, while others believe they may be aligned and intertwined. Pedagogical content knowledge (PCK), the broadly accepted gold standard for science education, seems to include both. Understanding how teachers incorporate inquiry strategies and responsiveness and how the two intersect could lead to a more complete framework for K–12 science instruction and help streamline science teacher education. This qualitative single-case study examined the reflections of a first-year chemistry teacher by exploring how she demonstrated responsiveness to students while maintaining a teaching orientation of inquiry-based instruction. Results indicated that responsiveness depended on a high level of PCK and led to higher or lower levels of inquiry based on the students’ need for teacher support. Additionally, findings showed that the teacher’s stated and demonstrated beliefs about inquiry were disconnected. Finally, a gap between science conceptual understanding and mathematics PCK suggested the need to support more innovative mathematics pedagogical strategies during physical science teacher education.
Multi-Channel Sensing System Utilizing Mott Memristors for Single-Wire Data Fusion and Back-End Greedy Strategy Data Recovery
Authors: Fan Shiquan , Liu Peihao , Shi Yongqiang , Zhao Shujing , Han Chuanyu , Xu Junyi , Zhang Guohe
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a novel Mott memristor-based multi-channel sensing system designed for the simultaneous processing of multiple sensing channels, employing single-wire data fusion and a greedy search strategy for back-end data recovery. Multiple channels of external stimulus information are simultaneously encoded into analog signals with varying frequencies, utilizing a Mott memristor array. Auxiliary circuits then convert the analog sensing signals into square wave signals which are further transformed into narrow (100 ns) pulse signals through pulse generation circuitry. Subsequently, these narrow pulse signals are fused into a single-wire signal by using an OR gate. At the back-end of the system, a greedy searching strategy is applied to accurately identify all frequencies within the fused pulse signal, enabling seamless analog-to-frequency conversion across multiple channels. The system is suitable for a wide range of sensors and can be directly connected to FPGAs for data processing, eliminating the need for traditional analogue front-end and ADC circuits and greatly reducing circuit complexity and power consumption. By leveraging the innovative capabilities of Mott memristors, the proposed system achieves precise analog-to-frequency conversion with significantly reduced power consumption.
Scheduling Precedence Constraints among Charging Tasks in Wireless Rechargeable Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Lanlan , Dai Haipeng , Chen Chen , Ni Zilu , Li Shihao
Published: January 2024

The development of wireless power transfer (WPT) facilitates wireless rechargeable sensor networks (WRSNs) receiving considerable attention in the sensor network research community. Most existing works mainly focus on general charging patterns and metrics while overlooking the precedence constraints among tasks, resulting in charging inefficiency. In this paper, we are the first to advance the issue of scheduling wireless charging tasks with precedence constraints (SCPC), with the optimization objective of minimizing the completion time of all the charging tasks under the precedence constraints while guaranteeing that the energy capacity of the mobile charger (MC) is not exhausted and the deadlines of charging tasks are not exceeded. In order to address this problem, we first propose a priority-based topological sort scheme to derive a unique feasible sequence on a directed acyclic graph (DAG). Then, we combine the proposed priority-based topological sort scheme with the procedure of a genetic algorithm to obtain the final solution through a series of genetic operators. Finally, we conduct extensive simulations to validate our proposed algorithm under the condition of three different network sizes. The results show that our proposed algorithm outperformed the other comparison algorithms by up to 11.59% in terms of completion time.
A Heterogeneous Inference Framework for a Deep Neural Network
Authors: Gadea-Gironés Rafael , Rocabado-Rocha José Luís , Fe Jorge , Monzo Jose M.
Published: January 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most promising technologies based on machine learning algorithms. In this paper, we propose a workflow for the implementation of deep neural networks. This workflow attempts to combine the flexibility of high-level compilers (HLS)-based networks with the architectural control features of hardware description languages (HDL)-based flows. The architecture consists of a convolutional neural network, SqueezeNet v1.1, and a hard processor system (HPS) that coexists with acceleration hardware to be designed. This methodology allows us to compare solutions based solely on software (PyTorch 1.13.1) and propose heterogeneous inference solutions, taking advantage of the best options within the software and hardware flow. The proposed workflow is implemented on a low-cost field programmable gate array system-on-chip (FPGA SOC) platform, specifically the DE10-Nano development board. We have provided systolic architectural solutions written in OpenCL that are highly flexible and easily tunable to take full advantage of the resources of programmable devices and achieve superior energy efficiencies working with a 32-bit floating point. From a verification point of view, the proposed method is effective, since the reference models in all tests, both for the individual layers and the complete network, have been readily available using packages well known in the development, training, and inference of deep networks.
A Low Profile Wideband Linear to Circular Polarization Converter Metasurface with Wide Axial Ratio and High Ellipticity
Authors: Hayat Babar , Zhang Jinling , Majeed Abdul , Ishfaq Muhammad , Khan Adil , Ahmad Shabeer
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces an ultra-wideband (UWB) reflective metasurface that exhibits the characteristics of a linear to circular (LTC) polarization conversion. The LTC polarization conversion is an orthotropic pattern comprising two equal axes, v and u, which are mutually orthogonal. Additionally, it possesses a 45° rotation with respect to the y-axis which extends vertically. The observed unit cell of the metasurface resembles a basic dipole shape. The converter has the capability to transform LP (linear polarized) waves into CP (circular polarized) waves within the frequency range 15.41–25.23 GHz. The band that contains its 3dB axial ratio lies within 15.41–25.23 GHz, which corresponds to an axial ratio (AR) bandwidth of 49.1%, and the resulting circular polarized wave is specifically a right-hand circular polarization (RHCP). Additionally, an LTC polarization conversion ratio (PCR) of over 98% is achieved within the frequency range between 15 and 24 GHz. A thorough theoretical investigation was performed to discover the underlying mechanism of the LTC polarization conversion. The phase difference Δφμν among the reflection coefficients of both the v- as well as the u-polarized incidences is approximately ±90° that is accurately predictive of the AR of the reflected wave. This study highlights that the reflective metasurfaces can be used as an efficient LTC polarization conversion when the Δφμν approaches ±90°. The performance of the proposed metasurface enables versatile applications, especially in antenna design and polarization devices, through LTC polarization conversion.
Spatiotemporal Masked Autoencoder with Multi-Memory and Skip Connections for Video Anomaly Detection
Authors: Fu Yan , Yang Bao , Ye Ou
Published: January 2024

Video anomaly detection is a critical component of intelligent video surveillance systems, extensively deployed and researched in industry and academia. However, existing methods have a strong generalization ability for predicting anomaly samples. They cannot utilize high-level semantic and temporal contextual information in videos, resulting in unstable prediction performance. To alleviate this issue, we propose an encoder–decoder model named SMAMS, based on spatiotemporal masked autoencoder and memory modules. First, we represent and mask some of the video events using spatiotemporal cubes. Then, the unmasked patches are inputted into the spatiotemporal masked autoencoder to extract high-level semantic and spatiotemporal features of the video events. Next, we add multiple memory modules to store unmasked video patches of different feature layers. Finally, skip connections are introduced to compensate for crucial information loss caused by the memory modules. Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms state-of-the-art methods, achieving AUC scores of 99.9%, 94.8%, and 78.9% on the UCSD Ped2, CUHK Avenue, and Shanghai Tech datasets.
A Feedforward Control-Based Power Decoupling Strategy for Grid-Forming Grid-Connected Inverters
Authors: Liu Baojin , Song Zhaofeng , Yu Bing , Yang Gongde , Liu Jinjun
Published: January 2024

Grid-forming inverters, which are represented by droop control and virtual synchronous generator control, have been widely studied and applied because of their excellent grid-supporting ability and smooth off-grid switching. When a grid-forming inverter is connected to a microgrid or utility grid, the control loops of active power and reactive power will be coupled because of the voltage phase difference, which will affect the power control performance. This paper first derives the small-signal linearized model of the system, based on which a frequency feedforward control and an amplitude feedforward control are proposed to decouple the active power and reactive power control loops, respectively. The proposed decoupling strategy directly modifies the reference values through feedforward with an easily implementable principle that is applicable to various control coordinate systems, control coordinate systems, and control structures. By comparing system models with and without the proposed decoupling strategy, its effectiveness can be theoretically proven. Time-domain simulations and hardware experiments are presented to further validate its effectiveness.
Fermented Beverages Revisited: From Terroir to Customized Functional Products
Authors: Paramithiotis Spiros , Patra Jayanta Kumar , Kotseridis Yorgos , Dimopoulou Maria
Published: January 2024

Fermented beverages have been a constant companion of humans throughout their history. A wide range of products have been developed with time, depending on the availability of raw materials and ambient conditions. Their differentiation was based on the specific characteristics of each product, resulting from the cultivation of different varieties and the variability of environmental conditions and agricultural practices, collectively described by the term ‘terroir’ that was developed in winemaking. The health benefits that have been associated with their consumption, which include the control of blood pressure and glycemic control, along with immunomodulatory, hypocholesterolemic, hepatoprotective, and antiproliferative activities, directed their re-discovery that occurred over the last few decades. Thus, the dynamics of the microbial communities of fermented beverages during fermentation and storage have been thoroughly assessed. The functional potential of fermented beverages has been attributed to the chemical composition of the raw materials and the bioconversions that take place during fermentation and storage, due to the metabolic capacity of the driving microbiota. Thus, the proper combination of raw materials with certain microorganisms may allow for the modulation of the organoleptic properties, as well as enrichment with specific functional ingredients, enabling targeted nutritional interventions. This plasticity of fermented beverages is their great advantage that offers limitless capabilities. The present article aims to critically summarize and present the current knowledge on the microbiota and functional potential of fermented beverages and highlight the great potential of these products.
A Novel Extracellular Catalase Produced by the Antarctic Filamentous Fungus Penicillium Rubens III11-2
Authors: Koleva Zdravka , Abrashev Radoslav , Angelova Maria , Stoyancheva Galina , Spassova Boryana , Yovchevska Lyudmila , Dishliyska Vladislava , Miteva-Staleva Jeny , Krumova Ekaterina
Published: January 2024

Catalase (CAT) is an enzyme involved in the first line of cellular antioxidant defense. It plays a key role in the protection of a wide range of Antarctic organisms against cold stress. Extracellular catalase is very rare and data on it are extremely scarce. The aim of the present study was to select an efficient producer of extracellular catalase from amongst Antarctic filamentous fungi. Sixty-two Antarctic filamentous fungal strains were investigated for their potential ability to synthesize intracellular and extracellular CAT. The Antarctic strain Penicillium rubens III11-2 was selected as the best producer of extracellular catalase. New information on the involvement of the extracellular antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase and CAT in the response of filamentous fungi against low-temperature stress was obtained. An efficient scheme for the purification of CAT from culture fluid was developed. An enzyme preparation with high specific activity (513 U/mg protein) was obtained with a yield of 19.97% and a purification rate of 98.4-fold. The purified enzyme exhibited maximal enzymatic activity in the temperature range of 5–40 °C and temperature stability between 0 and 30 °C, therefore being characterized as temperature sensitive. To our knowledge, this is the first purified extracellular cold active catalase preparation from Antarctic filamentous fungi.
Energy Converter: Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Yu Liang
Published: January 2024

As we conclude this Special Edition of “Energy Converter: Anaerobic Digestion”, a lingering sense of both achievement and anticipation accompanies us [...]
Effect of the Sizing Removal Methods of Fiber Surface on the Mechanical Performance of Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Li Yeou-Fong , Hung Jia-Yin , Syu Jin-Yuan , Chen Shih-Han , Huang Chih-Hong , Chang Shu-Mei , Kuo Wen-Shyong
Published: January 2024

In this study, comprehensive analyses were used to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of basalt fibers, employing a variety of instruments. Additionally, heat treatment and solvent treatment methods were used to eliminate the sizing present on fiber surfaces. The heat treatment process involved determining the optimal temperature and duration required to remove the sizing from the basalt fibers. The appearance, chemical composition, and crystal structure of the original fibers were examined, including those subjected to heat treatment and those treated with solvents. These treated fibers were then incorporated into concrete to create basalt fiber-reinforced concrete (BFRC) specimens for mechanical tests, which assessed their compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strengths. The results revealed that heat treatment at 300 °C for 180 min effectively removed the sizing on the basalt fibers, and the heat-treated basalt fibers exhibited uniform dispersion inside the BFRC specimens. In addition, solvent treatment primarily removed the soluble components of the sizing. The mechanical properties of specimens with sizing-removed basalt fibers were better than the specimens with original basalt fibers and the benchmark specimens. Crucially, the mechanical test results demonstrated that BFRC incorporating heat-treated basalt fibers exhibited a superior mechanical performance compared to BFRC incorporating original fibers or fibers subjected to the solvent treatment.
A Comparative Numerical Study of Lithium-Ion Batteries with Air-Cooling Systems towards Thermal Safety
Authors: Li Weiheng , Wang Xuan , Cen Polly Yuexin , Chen Qian , De Cachinho Cordeiro Ivan Miguel , Kong Lingcheng , Lin Peng , Li Ao
Published: January 2024

Given the growing demand for increased energy capacity and power density in battery systems, ensuring thermal safety in lithium-ion batteries has become a significant challenge for the coming decade. Effective thermal management plays a crucial role in battery design optimization. Air-cooling temperatures in vehicles often vary from ambient due to internal ventilation, with external air potentially overheating due to vehicle malfunctions. This article highlights the efficiency of lateral side air cooling in battery packs, suggesting a need for further exploration beyond traditional front side methods. In this study, we examine the impact of three different temperature levels and two distinct air-cooling directions on the performance of an air-cooling system. Our results reveal that the air-cooling direction has a more pronounced influence compared with the air-cooling temperature. By employing an optimal air-cooling direction and ambient air-cooling temperature, it is possible to achieve a temperature reduction of approximately 5 K in the battery, which otherwise requires a 10 K decrease in the air-cooling temperature to achieve a similar effect. Therefore, we propose an empirical formula for air-cooling efficiency under various conditions, aiming to provide valuable insights into the factors affecting air-cooling systems for industrial applications toward enhancing the fire safety of battery energy storage systems.
Network Analysis Reveals Species-Specific Organization of Microbial Communities in Four Co-Occurring Elasmobranch Species along the Georgia Coast
Authors: Lyons Kady , Bedore Christine N. , Carlisle Aaron B. , Moniz Lauren , Odom Timothy L. , Ahmed Rokeya , Greiman Stephen E. , Freedman Ryan M.
Published: January 2024

Comparing co-occurring species may provide insights into how aspects of ecology may play a role in influencing their microbial communities. During the 2019 commercial shrimp trawl season off coastal Georgia, swabs of skin, gills, cloaca, and gut were taken for three species of batoids (Butterfly Ray, Bluntnose Stingray, and Atlantic Stingray) and one shark species (Atlantic Sharpnose) for high-throughput sequencing of the V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. White muscle was analyzed for stable isotopes (δ13C and δ15N) to evaluate potential niche overlap in these four sympatric mesopredators. Significant differences were found in both δ13C and δ15N signatures across species, suggesting a degree of resource partitioning. When examined within tissue type, the host species had a weak effect on β-diversity for cloaca and skin, with no differences found for gill and gut samples. However, network analysis metrics demonstrated a stronger species-specific effect and distinct microbial community relationships were apparent between the shark and batoids, with the former having tighter networks for both internally- and externally-influenced tissues (gut/cloaca and skin/gills, respectively). Despite overlapping habitat use, species’ microbiomes differed in their organizational structuring that paralleled differences in stable isotope results, suggesting a mediating role of species-specific ecology on bacterial microbiomes.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Chinese Longsnout Catfish (Leiocassis longirostris) Using Microsatellite DNA Markers
Authors: Hou Yanling , Ye Huan , Song Xinhua , Fan Jiahui , Li Junyi , Shao Jian , Wang Yizhou , Lin Danqing , Yue Huamei , Ruan Rui , Li Chuangju
Published: January 2024

The Chinese longsnout catfish (Leiocassis longirostris) is an economically important freshwater fish in China; however, its wild resources have declined dramatically in recent decades. Understanding the genetic structure of Chinese longsnout catfish populations is crucial to guide breeding programs and fishy restoration. In this study, 15 highly polymorphic microsatellite DNA loci were used to evaluate its genetic diversity and population structure. Chinese longsnout catfish populations show high genetic diversity; they do not show significant genetic differentiation or systematic geographic pattern of variation. From the upper to the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, the genetic diversity of Chinese longsnout catfish populations showed an increasing trend. The Gezhouba and Three Gorges dams, which physically divide the Yangtze River into upstream and mid-downstream sections, did not contribute to the genetic differentiation of Chinese longsnout catfish populations. Hence, the source of broodstock is not critical for within-river breeding programs and stock enhancement to restore the wild population. In addition, possible effects of dams on differentiation among populations are crucial and long-term evaluation is essential.
Patterns of the Nutrients and Metabolites in Apostichopus japonicus Fermented by Bacillus natto and Their Ability to Alleviate Acute Alcohol Intoxication
Authors: Gu Xingyu , Zhao Ran , Li Haiman , Dong Xinyu , Meng Meishan , Li Tingting , Zhao Qiancheng , Li Ying
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to understand the changes in nutrient composition and differences in metabolites in Apostichopus japonicus fermented by Bacillus natto and their function in alleviating acute alcohol intoxication (AAI) through in vivo studies. The results showed no significant difference between the basic components of sea cucumber (SC) and fermented sea cucumber (FSC). The SC proteins were degraded after fermentation, and the amino acid content in FSC was significantly increased. The differentially abundant metabolites of SC and FSC were identified by LC-MS/MS. The contents of amino acid metabolites increased after fermentation, and arachidonic acid metabolism was promoted. The results demonstrated that FSC alleviated AAI by improving the activities of alcohol-metabolizing enzymes and antioxidant enzymes in the liver but did not alleviate the accumulation of triglycerides. Our results will provide beneficial information for the development and application of new products from FSC.
The Difference between PC-Based and Immersive Virtual Reality Food Purchase Environments on Useability, Presence, and Physiological Responses
Authors: Woodall Shelley , Hollis James H.
Published: January 2024

Computer simulations used to study food purchasing behavior can be separated into low immersion virtual environments (LIVE), which use personal computers and standard monitors to display a scene, and high immersion virtual environments (HIVE) which use virtual reality technology such as head-mounted displays to display a scene. These methods may differ in their ability to create feelings of presence or cybersickness that would influence the usefulness of these approaches. In this present study, thirty-one adults experienced a virtual supermarket or fast-food restaurant using a LIVE system or a HIVE system. Feelings of presence and cybersickness were measured using questionnaires or physiological responses (heart rate and electrodermal activity). The participants were also asked to rate their ability to complete the set task. The results of this study indicate that participants reported a higher sense of presence in the HIVE scenes as compared to the LIVE scenes (p < 0.05). The participant’s heart rate and electrodermal activity were significantly higher in the HIVE scene treatment when compared to the LIVE scene (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the participant’s ability to complete tasks in the different scenes. In addition, feelings of cybersickness were not different between the HIVE and LIVE scenes.
Exploring a Sustainable Process for Polyphenol Extraction from Olive Leaves
Authors: Huamán-Castilla Nils Leander , Díaz Huamaní Karla Syndel , Palomino Villegas Yolanda Cristina , Allcca-Alca Erik Edwin , León-Calvo Nilton Cesar , Colque Ayma Elvis Jack , Zirena Vilca Franz , Mariotti-Celis María Salomé
Published: January 2024

Olive leaves are residues from pruning and harvesting and are considered an environmental management problems. Interestingly, these residues contain high polyphenol concentrations, which can be used to treat chronic diseases. However, these compounds are a technological challenge due to their thermolability and reactivity during extraction. Thus, this study assessed the use of pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) with green solvents like water-ethanol and water-glycerol mixtures (0–15%) at 50 °C and 70 °C to yield polyphenol-rich antioxidant extracts with reduced glucose and fructose content. The use of 30% ethanol at 70°C presented the highest polyphenol content (15.29 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight) and antioxidant capacity, which was expressed as IC50 (half maximal inhibitory concentration): 5.49 mg/mL and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC): 1259 μmol Trolox equivalent/g dry weight, as well as lower sugar content (glucose: 3.75 mg/g dry weight, fructose: 5.68 mg/g dry weight) compared to water–glycerol mixtures. Interestingly, ethanol exhibits a higher degree of effectiveness in recovering flavanols, stilbenes and secoiridoids, while glycerol improves the extraction of phenolic acids and flavonols. Therefore, to enhance the efficiency of polyphenol recovery during the PLE process, it is necessary to consider its solvent composition and chemical structure.
Deciphering the Microbiological Mechanisms Underlying the Impact of Different Storage Conditions on Rice Grain Quality
Authors: Qiu Zhuzhu , Wu Fenghua , Hu Hao , Guo Jian , Wu Changling , Wang Peng , Ling Jiangang , Cui Yan , Ye Jing , Fang Guanyu , Liu Xingquan
Published: January 2024

Different storage conditions can influence microbial community structure and metabolic functions, affecting rice grains’ quality. However, the microbiological mechanisms by which different storage conditions affect the quality of rice grains are not yet well understood. This study monitored the quality (the content of starch, protein, etc.) and microbial community structure of rice grains stored under different storage conditions with nitrogen gas atmosphere (RA: normal temperature, horizontal ventilation, RB: normal temperature, vertical ventilation, RC: quasi-low temperature, horizontal ventilation). The results revealed that the rice grains stored under condition RB exhibited significantly lower quality compared to condition RA and RC. In addition, under this condition, the highest relative abundance of Aspergillus (16.0%) and Penicillium (0.4%) and the highest levels of aflatoxin A (3.77 ± 0.07 μg/kg) and ochratoxin B1 (3.19 ± 0.05 μg/kg) were detected, which suggested a higher risk of fungal toxin contamination. Finally, co-occurrence network analysis was performed, and the results revealed that butyl 1,2-benzenedicarboxylate was negatively correlated (p < 0.05) with Moesziomyces and Alternaria. These findings will contribute to the knowledge base of rice storage management and guide the development of effective control measures against undesirable microbial activities.
Recent Approaches to the Formulation, Uses, and Impact of Edible Coatings on Fresh Peach Fruit
Authors: Aaqil Muhammad , Peng Chunxiu , Kamal Ayesha , Nawaz Taufiq , Gong Jiashun
Published: January 2024

Peaches are among the most well-known fruits in the world due to their appealing taste and high nutritional value. Peach fruit, on the other hand, has a variety of postharvest quality issues like chilling injury symptoms, internal breakdown, weight loss, decay, shriveling, and over-ripeness, which makes a challenging environment for industries and researchers to develop sophisticated strategies for fruit quality preservation and extending shelf life. All over the world, consumers prefer excellent-quality, high-nutritional-value, and long-lasting fresh fruits that are free of chemicals. An eco-friendly solution to this issue is the coating and filming of fresh produce with natural edible materials. The edible coating utilization eliminates the adulteration risk, presents fruit hygienically, and improves aesthetics. Coatings are used in a way that combines food chemistry and preservation technology. This review, therefore, examines a variety of natural coatings (proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, and composite) and their effects on the quality aspects of fresh peach fruit, as well as their advantages and mode of action. From this useful information, the processors could benefit in choosing the suitable edible coating material for a variety of fresh peach fruits and their application on a commercial scale. In addition, prospects of the application of natural coatings on peach fruit and gaps observed in the literature are identified.
Texture Analysis of Chinese Dried Noodles during Drying Based on Acoustic–Mechanical Detection Methods
Authors: Cai Zhendong , Wang Zhenhua , Zhang Min , Zhang Aojie , Ye Guodong , Liang Shan , Ren Xin
Published: January 2024

To better understand the textural transformation of Chinese dried noodles during the drying process, a convenient acoustic–force detection method was established. By comparing the breaking point, it was possible to determine the time-scale correlation between the force–displacement curves and acoustic spectrograms. The acoustic eigenvalues showed a consistent upward trend with the mechanical parameters during the drying process. With a wave crest reaching 152.8 dB and a signal maximum reaching 0.072, the structural stability of the dried noodles hardly induces a higher acoustic response. This suggests that the mechanical strength and rigidity of the dried noodles undergo minimal changes during this period. In comparison to the mechanical parameters, the acoustic eigenvalues accurately describe the changes in texture of dried noodles under various drying conditions, moreover, the sound threshold also provides a more effective response to the dried noodles’ structural strength threshold. Therefore, the acoustic detection method can be applied to assist the conventional mechanical measurement in the field of the texture evaluation of dried food.
Broccoli Improves Lipid Metabolism and Intestinal Flora in Mice with Type 2 Diabetes Induced by HFD and STZ Diet
Authors: Li Xin , Cai Zifan , Yang Feiyu , Wang Yunfan , Pang Xinyi , Sun Jing , Li Xiangfei , Lu Yingjian
Published: January 2024

Globally, type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is on the rise. Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for both treating and preventing T2DM.As a common vegetable in daily diet, broccoli has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticarcoma physiological activities. We developed a mouse model of type 2 diabetes and carried out a systematic investigation to clarify the function of broccoli in reducing T2DM symptoms and controlling intestinal flora. The findings demonstrated that broccoli could successfully lower fasting blood glucose (FBG), lessen insulin resistance, regulate lipid metabolism, lower the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C, and MDA, stop the expression of IL-1β and IL-6, and decrease the harm that diabetes causes to the pancreas, liver, fat, and other organs and tissues. Furthermore, broccoli altered the intestinal flora’s makeup in mice with T2DM. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Allobaculum decreased, and that of Odoribacter and Oscillospira increased; At the family level, the relative abundances of Odoribacteraceae, Rikenellaceae and S24-7 decreased, while the relative abundances of Erysipelotrichaceae and Rikenellaceae increased.
The Finite Volume Element Method for Time Fractional Generalized Burgers’ Equation
Authors: Zhang Jingru , Yang Qing
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we use the finite volume element method (FVEM) to approximate a one-dimensional, time fractional generalized Burgers’ equation. We construct the fully discrete finite volume element scheme for this equation by approximating the time fractional derivative term by the L1 formula and approximating the spatial terms using FVEM. The convergence of the scheme is proven. Finally, numerical examples are provided to confirm the scheme’s validity.
Predicting the Remaining Useful Life of Turbofan Engines Using Fractional Lévy Stable Motion with Long-Range Dependence
Authors: Qi Deyu , Zhu Zijiang , Yao Fengmin , Song Wanqing , Kudreyko Aleksey , Cattani Piercarlo , Villecco Francesco
Published: January 2024

Remaining useful life prediction guarantees a reliable and safe operation of turbofan engines. Long-range dependence (LRD) and heavy-tailed characteristics of degradation modeling make this method advantageous for the prediction of RUL. In this study, we propose fractional Lévy stable motion for degradation modeling. First, we define fractional Lévy stable motion simulation algorithms. Then, we demonstrate the LRD and heavy-tailed property of fLsm to provide support for the model. The proposed method is validated with the C-MAPSS dataset obtained from the turbofan engine. Principle components analysis (PCA) is conducted to extract sources of variance. Experimental data show that the predictive model based on fLsm with exponential drift exhibits superior accuracy relative to the existing methods.
Fabrication Technology of Self-Dissolving Sodium Hyaluronate Gels Ultrafine Microneedles for Medical Applications with UV-Curing Gas-Permeable Mold
Authors: Yamagishi Rio , Miura Sayaka , Yabu Kana , Ando Mano , Hachikubo Yuna , Yokoyama Yoshiyuki , Yasuda Kaori , Takei Satoshi
Published: January 2024

Microneedles are of great interest in diverse fields, including cosmetics, drug delivery systems, chromatography, and biological sensing for disease diagnosis. Self-dissolving ultrafine microneedles of pure sodium hyaluronate hydrogels were fabricated using a UV-curing TiO2-SiO2 gas-permeable mold polymerized by sol-gel hydrolysis reactions in nanoimprint lithography processes under refrigeration at 5 °C, where thermal decomposition of microneedle components can be avoided. The moldability, strength, and dissolution behavior of sodium hyaluronate hydrogels with different molecular weights were compared to evaluate the suitability of ultrafine microneedles with a bottom diameter of 40 μm and a height of 80 μm. The appropriate molecular weight range and formulation of pure sodium hyaluronate hydrogels were found to control the dissolution behavior of self-dissolving ultrafine microneedles while maintaining the moldability and strength of the microneedles. This fabrication technology of ultrafine microneedles expands their possibilities as a next-generation technique for bioactive gels for controlling the blood levels of drugs and avoiding pain during administration.
Effects of Peanut Rust Disease (Puccinia arachidis Speg.) on Agricultural Production: Current Control Strategies and Progress in Breeding for Resistance
Authors: You Yu , Liao Junhua , He Zemin , Khurshid Muhammad , Wang Chaohuan , Zhang Zhenzhen , Mao Jinxiong , Xia Youlin
Published: January 2024

Peanuts play a pivotal role as an economic crop on a global scale, serving as a primary source of both edible oil and protein. Peanut rust (Puccinia arachidis Speg.) disease constitutes a significant global biotic stress, representing a substantial economic threat to the peanut industry by inducing noteworthy reductions in seed yields and compromising oil quality. This comprehensive review delves into the distinctive characteristics and detrimental symptoms associated with peanut rust, scrutinizing its epidemiology and the control strategies that are currently implemented. Notably, host resistance emerges as the most favored strategy due to its potential to surmount the limitations inherent in other approaches. The review further considers the recent advancements in peanut rust resistance breeding, integrating the use of molecular marker technology and the identification of rust resistance genes. Our findings indicate that the ongoing refinement of control strategies, especially through the development and application of immune or highly resistant peanut varieties, will have a profound impact on the global peanut industry.
Traumatic Aneurysm Involving the Posterior Communicating Artery
Authors: Napoletano Gabriele , Di Fazio Nicola , Delogu Giuseppe , Del Duca Fabio , Maiese Aniello
Published: January 2024

Traumatic intracranial aneurysms (TICAs) are rare, accounting for less than 1% of all intracranial aneurysms. However, they are associated with a mortality rate of over 50%. The case presented herein focuses on a posterior communicating artery TICA caused by violent aggression. A 41-year-old man with massive subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), on admission to hospital, had a CT angiography that showed a ruptured left posterior communicating artery aneurysm with continuous blood loss and underwent neurosurgical cooling. The CT scan also showed fractures of the mandible, mastoid and left styloid process, as well as brain contusions caused by blows and kicks. Despite medical treatment and surgery, after four days, he died. The assault dynamics were recorded by a camera in the bar. The damage was caused by kicks to the neck and head. The forensic neuropathological examination showed the primary injury (SAH, subdural hemorrhage, cerebral contusions, head–neck fractures), as well as secondary damage following the attack (cerebral infarcts, edema, supratentorial hernia, midbrain hemorrhage). The coil was intact and well positioned. In this case, circumstantial information, medical records, and the type of injury could shed light on the mechanism of the production of a TICA. In addition, the CT angiography and histological investigations helped to distinguish a recent and traumatic aneurysm from a pre-existing one. Following precise steps, the study of aneurysms can be helpful in clarifying their traumatic origin even when the victim was taking drugs. The aim of this study is also to share the diagnostic process that we used in the forensic field for the assessment of suspected traumatic aneurysms.
Impact of an Evidence-Based Prioritization System and Electronic Consultation in Early Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Valverde-López Francisco , Librero-Jiménez Marta , Fernández-García Raúl , Vezza Teresa , Heredia-Carrasco Clara , López de Hierro Ruiz Mercedes , Galvez Julio , Jiménez-Rosales Rita , Redondo-Cerezo Eduardo
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common causes of cancer. Timely diagnosis is critical, with even minor delays impacting prognosis. Primary care providers face obstacles in accessing specialist care. This study investigates the impact of implementing an electronic consultation (eConsult) system combined with a specific prioritization system on CRC diagnosis delay and tumor staging. (2) Methods: The study analyzes 245 CRC patients from November 2019 to February 2022, comparing those referred before and after the eConsult system’s implementation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data on referral reasons, pathways, diagnosis delays, and staging were collected. Multivariate analysis aimed to identify independent risk factors for advanced staging at diagnosis. (3) Results: The eConsult system significantly reduced CRC diagnosis delay from 68 to 26 days. The majority of patients referred via eConsult presented with symptoms. Despite expedited diagnoses, no discernible difference in CRC staging emerged between eConsult and traditional referrals. Notably, patients from screening programs or with a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT) experienced earlier-stage diagnoses. A positive FIT without symptoms and being a never-smoker emerged as protective factors against advanced-stage CRC. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights eConsult’s role in reducing CRC diagnosis delay, improving diagnostic efficiency and prioritizing urgent cases, emphasizing FIT effectiveness.
Identifying Witnessed Suicides in National Violent Death Reporting System Narratives
Authors: Mays Vickie M. , Gareeb Mikaela , Zhang Xingruo , Nguyen Vivian , Rosenberg Joelle , Lin Yuri , Arseniev-Koehler Alina , Eliav Adam , Foster Jacob Gates , Baumgardner Mika , Cochran Susan D.
Published: January 2024

There is increasing attention to suicides that occur in view of others, as these deaths can cause significant psychological impact on witnesses. This study illuminates characteristics of witnessed suicides and compares characteristics of these deaths to non-witnessed suicides. We develop a codable definition of what constitutes witnessed (vs. non-witnessed) suicide. Our data include a sample of 1200 suicide descriptions from the 2003–2017 National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS). We first developed criteria to identify probable cases of witnessed suicide. The coding scheme achieved 94.5% agreement and identified approximately 10% (n = 125) of suicides as witnessed. Next, we examined differences between witnessed and non-witnessed suicides in demographics, manner of death, and social/environmental factors using bivariate Chi-squared tests, multivariate logistic regression, and ANOVA. Witnessed suicide decedents were significantly more likely than non-witnessed suicide decedents to be male, younger, and members of a sexual minority, and to have died in living spaces by means of a firearm. Two thirds of witnesses were strangers to the decedents, while 23.2% were romantic partners or ex-partners of the decedents. Our coding method offers a reliable approach to identify witnessed suicides. While witnessed suicides are relatively infrequent, these deaths have profound impact on witnesses. Articulating the features of witnessed suicides may contribute to identifying potential risk mitigation strategies.
Chitosan Coating Incorporated with Carvacrol Improves Postharvest Guava (Psidium guajava) Quality
Authors: Shu Chang , Kim-Lee Beatrice , Sun Xiuxiu
Published: January 2024

Guava (Psidium guajava L.) is an important economic crop grown widely in tropical and subtropical regions. Guava exhibits fast ripening and senescence as a climacteric fruit, causing a short shelf life and quality deterioration. Chitosan–essential oil nanoemulsions can be an edible coating used to improve postharvest quality attributes. In this study, chitosan was mixed with carvacrol to generate a nano-emulsoid solution containing 0.1 and 0.2% (v/v) carvacrol, using a sonic dismembrator. Guava fruit were coated with the above emulsion and postharvest quality parameters were measured during storage at 20 ± 1 °C and RH = 80 ± 5% for 8 days. The result illustrated that the particle size of the chitosan–carvacrol emulsions was nanoscale, and their high stability was demonstrated by the zeta potential and polydispersity index. Chitosan coating (2%, w/v, 310–375 kDa) containing 0.2% (v/v) carvacrol maintained postharvest quality compared to chitosan alone, with higher firmness, soluble solid content, total acid, and total phenol content, and lower weight loss and pericarp browning. The collective data were further verified by principal component analysis. A chitosan coating containing carvacrol can reduce postharvest losses. It can be applied as an effective strategy to improve postharvest fruit quality.
Ruptured Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm with Resultant Myocardial Pouch Formation in the Fetal Heart—A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Bigg Hugh , Bolin Elijah , Zakaria Dala , Bornemeier Renee
Published: January 2024

Sinus of Valsalva aneurysms (SVAs) are infrequently seen in the pediatric population. When these aneurysms rupture, a significant hemodynamic burden is placed on the heart and increases the likelihood of cardiac failure. Here, we report a case of a ruptured SVA into the ventricular myocardium in a fetus with a form of double-inlet left ventricle. To the best of our knowledge, this has not previously been described.
Current Role of Electrocardiographic Imaging in Patient Selection for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Abu-Alrub Saer , Strik Marc , Huntjens Peter , Haïssaguerre Michel , Eschalier Romain , Bordachar Pierre , Ploux Sylvain
Published: January 2024

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is a recognized therapy for heart failure with altered ejection fraction and abnormal left ventricular activation time. Since the introduction of the therapy, a 30% rate of non-responders is observed and unchanged. The 12-lead ECG remains the only recommended tool for patient selection to CRT. The 12-lead ECG is, however, limited in its inability to provide a precise pattern of regional electrical activity. Electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) provides a non-invasive detailed mapping of cardiac activation and therefore appears as a promising tool for CRT candidates. The non-invasive ventricular activation maps acquired by ECGi have been primarily explored for the diagnosis and guidance of therapy in patients with atrial or ventricular tachyarrhythmia. However, the accuracy of the system in this field is lacking and needs further improvement before considering a clinical application. On the other hand, its use for patient selection for CRT is encouraging. In this review, we introduce the technical considerations and we describe how ECGi can precisely characterize ventricular activation, especially in patients with left bundle branch block, thus identifying the electrical substrate responsive to CRT.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Low Anterior Resection Syndrome following Trans-Anal Total Mesorectal Excision
Authors: Parnasa Shani Y. , Mizrahi Ido , Helou Brigitte , Cohen Adiel , Abu Gazala Mahmoud , Pikarsky Alon J. , Shussman Noam
Published: January 2024

Background: Trans-anal total mesorectal excision (Ta-TME) is a novel approach for the resection of rectal cancer. Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a frequent functional disorder that might follow restorative proctectomy. Data regarding bowel function after Ta-TME are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for the development of LARS following Ta-TME. Methods: A prospectively maintained database of all patients who underwent Ta-TME for rectal cancer at our institution was reviewed. All patients who were operated on from January 2018 to December 2021 were evaluated. The LARS score questionnaire was used via telephone interviews. Incidence, severity and risk factors for LARS were evaluated. Results: Eighty-five patients underwent Ta-TME for rectal cancer between January 2018 and December 2021. Thirty-five patients were excluded due to ostomy status, death, local disease recurrence, ileal pouch or lack of compliance. Fifty patients were included in the analysis. LARS was diagnosed in 76% of patients. Anastomosis distance from dentate line was identified as a risk factor for LARS via multivariate analysis (p = 0.042). Neo-adjuvant therapy, hand sewn anastomosis and anastomotic leak did not increase the risk of LARS. Conclusion: LARS is a frequent condition following ta-TME, as it is used for other approaches to low anterior resection. Anastomosis distance from dentate line is an independent risk factor for LARS. In this study neo-adjuvant therapy, hand sewn anastomosis and anastomotic leak did not increase the risk of LARS. Further studies with longer follow-up times are required to better understand the functional outcomes following Ta-TME.