bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geometric and Radiometric Quality Assessments of UAV-Borne Multi-Sensor Systems: Can UAVs Replace Terrestrial Surveys?
Authors: Chi Junhwa , Kim Jae-In , Lee Sungjae , Jeong Yongsik , Kim Hyun-Cheol , Lee Joohan , Chung Changhyun
Published: June 2023

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, are a cost-effective alternative to traditional surveying methods, and they can be used to collect geospatial data over inaccessible or hard-to-reach locations. UAV-integrated miniaturized remote sensing sensors such as hyperspectral and LiDAR sensors, which formerly operated on airborne and spaceborne platforms, have recently been developed. Their accuracies can still be guaranteed when incorporating pieces of equipment such as ground control points (GCPs) and field spectrometers. This study conducted three experiments for geometric and radiometric accuracy assessments of simultaneously acquired RGB, hyperspectral, and LiDAR data from a single mission. Our RGB and hyperspectral data generated orthorectified images based on direct georeferencing without any GCPs. Because of this, a base station is required for the post-processed Global Navigation Satellite System/Inertial Measurement Unit (GNSS/IMU) data. First, we compared the geometric accuracy of orthorectified RGB and hyperspectral images relative to the distance of the base station to determine which base station should be used. Second, point clouds could be generated from overlapped RGB images and a LiDAR sensor. We quantitatively and qualitatively compared RGB and LiDAR point clouds in this experiment. Lastly, we evaluated the radiometric quality of hyperspectral images, which is the most critical factor of the hyperspectral sensor, using reference spectra that was simultaneously measured by a field spectrometer. Consequently, the distance of the base station for post-processing the GNSS/IMU data was found to have no significant impact on the geometric accuracy, indicating that a dedicated base station is not always necessary. Our experimental results demonstrated geometric errors of less than two hyperspectral pixels without using GCPs, achieving a level of accuracy that is comparable to survey-level standards. Regarding the comparison of RGB- and LiDAR-based point clouds, RGB point clouds exhibited noise and lacked details; however, through the cleaning process, their vertical accuracy was found to be comparable with LiDAR’s accuracy. Although photogrammetry generated denser point clouds compared with LiDAR, the overall quality for extracting the elevation data greatly relies on factors such as the original image quality, including the image’s occlusions, shadows, and tie-points, for matching. Furthermore, the image spectra derived from hyperspectral data consistently demonstrated high radiometric quality without the need for in situ field spectrum information. This finding indicates that in situ field spectra are not always required to guarantee the radiometric quality of hyperspectral data, as long as well-calibrated targets are utilized.
Richness and Elevation Patterns of a Stonefly (Insecta, Plecoptera) Community of a Southern Appalachian Mountains Watershed, USA
Authors: Metzger Madeline L. , Grubbs Scott A.
Published: June 2023

Protected areas are relatively free of human disturbance, are especially common in montane regions, and provide opportunities to study native fauna and flora. Stoneflies are model organisms to assess present and future environmental changes. While stoneflies inhabit cold lakes and a wide size range of lotic systems, diversity is greatest in streams draining mountain landscapes. This study addressed seasonal and elevation patterns of a stonefly fauna inhabiting a protected landscape draining the eastern flank of Mount Mitchell, the highest point of the Appalachian Mountains, USA. In total, 58 species were collected with estimated richness values ranging from 63 to 65. Species determinations were assisted with an integrative molecular approach using the mitochondrial barcode gene. Sampling during spring yielded the most species seasonally. Although certain species were only found at lower or higher sites, several were collected from across a broad range of elevations. Roughly 1/3 (21 = 36%) of the fauna present is known only from the southern Appalachian Highlands region, including one species described as new during this study. The assemblage reported here, however, did not closely align with other Appalachian fauna. Overall, well-structured faunal research continues to be important in light of continuing habitat modifications and climate change.
Countering Discourses of Derision: Moving towards Action in Teacher Education in the USA and Sweden
Authors: Blennow Katarina , Malmström Martin , Stolle Elizabeth Petroelje
Published: June 2023

This article is about how negative discourses of teacher education position teacher educators and how they might influence or inspire action. We use self-study methods to investigate the political dimension of teacher education in two national contexts: Sweden and the USA. More specifically, we examine the emotions stirred by the positioning related to being a teacher educator and how those emotions can be used to take a line to and resist boundaries that limit us within the profession in the two contexts. We aim to contribute to the self-study field by emphasizing a political dimension, in addition to the personal and professional dimensions of teacher education more often studied by scholars. Using the concepts of positionality, emotions, liminality, and action, we conclude that the liminal spaces offered us time to think about the emotions we have experienced due to the derisive discourses that position us in negative ways as teacher educators, and with that thinking came opportunities to reflect on our identity as teacher educators and what we look to accomplish as teacher educators. A new understanding of liminality as a space of possibility has boosted us to take action. An important conclusion is that emotional labor can be a hindrance in relation to teacher educator action, while emotions can act as clues for opportunities of growth and action. Telling our stories opened space for us to use our emotions to take a line to and resist the derogatory discourse, engage in the political, and move closer to becoming teacher educator activists.
Learning English in Early Childhood Education with Augmented Reality: Design, Production, and Evaluation of the “Wordtastic Kids” App
Authors: Mamani-Calapuja Aleyda , Laura-Revilla Victoria , Hurtado-Mazeyra Alejandra , Llorente-Cejudo Carmen
Published: June 2023

The pedagogical use of AR for language learning in early childhood education is focusing attention on the didactic potential that these resources present at such early ages. The aim of this study was to develop and assess the “Wordtastic Kids” Application (APP) in order to: (a) design, produce, and evaluate a new contextualized AR application for learning English in early childhood education; and (b) know the academic performance of early childhood education students towards learning English using an AR application. The methodology was based on the design of materials and the subsequent realization of the pre-test/post-test evaluation to determine the academic performance of the students. The results show a general increase in the scores obtained in all the pre-test and post-test categories that were addressed using the Wordtastic Kids Application, which proves to be a tool that improves the learning of English vocabulary in pre-school children. Therefore, it can be concluded that AR can be useful for complementing traditional vocabulary learning in children. However, it is important to note that the successful implementation of AR will depend on several factors, such as adequate teacher preparation, the quality of AR content, and the ability of children to interact with technology effectively.
VR Gaming for Meta-Skills Training in Special Education: The Role of Metacognition, Motivations, and Emotional Intelligence
Authors: Mitsea Eleni , Drigas Athanasios , Skianis Charalabos
Published: June 2023

Inclusion, equality, and well-being for all, especially for people with special needs and disabilities, is globally recognized as a priority. At the same time, there is an urgent need to create digital training environments for people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Virtual reality (VR) and gaming technologies have entered the race at full speed for skills training. Despite significant research on each of these technologies, there is still limited knowledge about the effectiveness of virtual reality games (VRGs) in targeted groups such as those with SEND. Thus, the current systematic review paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of gaming in virtual reality as an intervention strategy for meta-skills training among people with neurodevelopmental, cognitive disorders, and learning difficulties. The PRISMA 2020 methodology was used to respond to the objective and research questions. This study also emphasizes the mediating role of motivations, metacognition, and emotional intelligence as important assets for meta-skills development. The database search generated 1100 records, and 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. This study concludes that VRGs have the potential to support people with SEND in terms of raising motivation and developing metacognitive skills, as well as in developing the emotional intelligence skills needed for inclusion, accomplishment, an independent life, and personal well-being. As was observed, VRGs provided the subjects with positive experiences, allowing them to internalize motivations and—with less effort—develop self-motivated, self-regulated, and flexible behaviors.
Lightweight Infrared and Visible Image Fusion via Adaptive DenseNet with Knowledge Distillation
Authors: Zhao Zongqing , Su Shaojing , Wei Junyu , Tong Xiaozhong , Gao Weijia
Published: June 2023

The fusion of infrared and visible images produces a complementary image that captures both infrared radiation information and visible texture structure details using the respective sensors. However, the current deep-learning-based fusion approaches mainly tend to prioritize visual quality and statistical metrics, leading to an increased model complexity and weight parameter sizes. To address these challenges, we propose a novel dual-light fusion approach using adaptive DenseNet with knowledge distillation to learn and compress from pre-existing fusion models, which achieves the goals of model compression through the use of hyperparameters such as the width and depth of the model network. The effectiveness of our proposed approach is evaluated on a new dataset comprising three public datasets (MSRS, M3FD, and LLVIP), and both qualitative and quantitative experimental results show that the distillated adaptive DenseNet model effectively matches the original fusion models’ performance with smaller model weight parameters and shorter inference times.
Drift Resilient Frequency-Based Sensor Interface Architectures with Adaptive Clock Frequency
Authors: Zenebe Mikias Belhu , Alemu Getachew , De Smedt Valentijn , Leroux Paul
Published: June 2023

Maintaining the accuracy of a sensor system across various operating conditions has always been a challenge, especially for those operating in harsh surroundings such as a radiation environment. Concerning frequency-based sensor interfaces, supply voltage drifts and gain shift of the voltage-to-frequency converter (VFC) are critical design issues. These manifest as gain, offset, and linearity errors at the system level and therefore require continuous correction mechanisms. In this paper, dynamic gain and offset error-compensated open-loop frequency-based sensor interface architectures with adaptive clock frequency are proposed, which result in a ratiometric digital output. To address the mismatch issue, two architectures, one with periodic swapping of the VFCs’ inputs and outputs, and the other with the use of a single analog-to-digital converter (ADC) as an analog front end, are developed. The concepts were demonstrated with implementations on a Zynq board (ZYBO). The results of the first architecture showed that for a 25% gain mismatch between the VFCs, the output gain error was reduced from around 7.4% to 0.79% and the offset error was reduced from around 11.8% to 0.01%. Additionally, for the second architecture, a maximum of 0.11% gain error and 0.1% offset error were recorded for an emulated ±25% supply drift.
Assessment of Visual Motor Integration via Hand-Drawn Imitation: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zhang Dinghuang , Lu Baoli , Guo Jing , He Yu , Liu Honghai
Published: June 2023

Copious evidence shows that impaired visual–motor integration (VMI) is intrinsically linked to the core deficits of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and associated with an anomalous social capability. Therefore, an effective evaluation method of visual–motor behaviour can provide meaningful insight into the evaluation of VMI towards social capability. The current pilot study aims to explore the appropriate quantified metrics for evaluating VMI ability based on a hand-drawn imitation protocol. First, a simple and interesting hand-drawn protocol was designed, and six healthy participants were recruited to perform the task. Then, based on the collected hand–eye behaviour data, several metrics were applied to infer the participant’s social capability and VMI in engagement and visual–motor complexity based on hand–eye properties with Hausdorff distance and cross-recurrence quantification analysis (CRQA). Finally, those quantified metrics were verified through statistical significance. This study proposed a set of quantitative metrics to construct a comprehensive VMI evaluation, including outcome and progress measures. The results revealed the proposed method as a directly interpretable indicator providing a promising computational framework and biomarker for VMI evaluation, paving the way for its future use in ASD diagnosis and guiding intervention.
Performance Enhancement of CAN/Ethernet Automotive Gateway with a CAN Data Reduction Algorithm
Authors: Oh Sung Bhin , Do Young Soo , Lee Min Jeong , Kim Jin Ho , Jeon Jae Wook
Published: June 2023

Data reduction (DR) techniques for the controller area network (CAN) are being developed to reduce the increased bus load caused by the growing number of electronic control units (ECUs) and automotive software complexity in modern automobiles. DR techniques enable the transmission of the same information with less bandwidth, effectively reducing the busload in CAN-based networks. Modern vehicles are composed of various in-vehicle network (IVN) protocols, such as CAN, local interconnect network (LIN), and Ethernet. However, existing DR techniques only consider the communication between CAN nodes. The application of DR techniques to a CAN bus may lead to compatibility issues when communicating with heterogeneous IVN protocols. This paper proposed a CAN/Ethernet gateway system for seamless communication with CAN DR. The proposed gateway system was implemented on a TC275-based embedded system, and its performance was evaluated and analyzed. The experimental results revealed that CAN DR compression effectively improves both the CAN bus load and end-to-end processing time of the gateway system. The CAN bus load was reduced by up to 33.68%, and the average end-to-end processing time was reduced to 336 μs.
Experimental Study of the Heat Flow and Energy Consumption during Liquid Cooling Due to Radiative Heat Transfer in Winter
Authors: Tsoy Alexandr , Granovskiy Alexandr , Koretskiy Dmitriy , Tsoy-Davis Diana , Veselskiy Nikita , Alechshenko Mikhail , Minayev Alexandr , Kim Inara , Jamasheva Rita
Published: June 2023

Radiation cooling is a passive energy saving cooling technology. The process of cooling heat transfer liquid due to the combined effect of night radiative cooling and convection of air at negative temperatures (in winter) is studied. The radiator used for cooling was built into the roof of the building. Its radiating plate was made of a steel sheet coated with zinc oxide. In it, heat dissipation was carried out both from the upper and lower sides of the radiating plate. The experimental values of the heat flux ranged from 20 to 80 W·m−2 at a temperature difference between heat transfer liquid and air from 5 to 15 °C and ambient air temperature from −17 to +5 °C. The correctness of the model for calculating the heat flux in winter conditions was confirmed. A theoretical calculation showed that, in winter, the heat flux removed by the radiator will be 15% less than the heat flux in summer. The amount of heat transferred per watt of electrical power of the refrigeration unit reached 8 W·W−1. To keep the refrigeration unit with radiative heat transfer more efficient than in a conventional vapor compression chiller, the heat transfer liquid temperature should be 6 °C above the atmospheric temperature air. The results of the study show that radiative cooling can be used in winter and may be useful for the development of energy-efficient cooling systems for various purposes (air conditioning, industrial cooling systems and fruit storage chambers).
Techno-Economic Analysis and Optimization of a Compressed-Air Energy Storage System Integrated with a Natural Gas Combined-Cycle Plant
Authors: Sengalani Pavitra Senthamilselvan , Haque Md Emdadul , Zantye Manali S. , Gandhi Akhilesh , Li Mengdi , Hasan M. M. Faruque , Bhattacharyya Debangsu
Published: June 2023

To address the rising electricity demand and greenhouse gas concentration in the environment, considerable effort is being carried out across the globe on installing and operating renewable energy sources. However, the renewable energy production is affected by diurnal and seasonal variability. To ensure that the electric grid remains reliable and resilient even for the high penetration of renewables into the grid, various types of energy storage systems are being investigated. In this paper, a compressed-air energy storage (CAES) system integrated with a natural gas combined-cycle (NGCC) power plant is investigated where air is extracted from the gas turbine compressor or injected back into the gas turbine combustor when it is optimal to do so. First-principles dynamic models of the NGCC plant and CAES are developed along with the development of an economic model. The dynamic optimization of the integrated system is undertaken in the Python/Pyomo platform for maximizing the net present value (NPV). NPV optimization is undertaken for 14 regions/cases considering year-long locational marginal price (LMP) data with a 1 h interval. Design variables such as the storage capacity and storage pressure, as well as the operating variables such as the power plant load, air injection rate, and air extraction rate, are optimized. Results show that the integrated CAES system has a higher NPV than the NGCC-only system for all 14 regions, thus indicating the potential deployment of the integrated system under the assumption of the availability of caverns in close proximity to the NGCC plant. The levelized cost of storage is found to be in the range of 136–145 $/MWh. Roundtrip efficiency is found to be between 74.6–82.5%. A sensitivity study with respect to LMP shows that the LMP profile has a significant impact on the extent of air injection/extraction while capital expenditure reduction has a negligible effect.
On the Multi-Domain Impacts of Coupling Mechanical Ventilation to Radiant Systems in Residential Buildings
Authors: Ferrara Maria , Peretti Clara , Fabrizio Enrico , Corgnati Stefano Paolo
Published: June 2023

In the current context of joint efforts towards the decarbonisation of buildings, integrating occupants’ comfort and health with latest technological advancements for energy efficiency is at the center of the latest development of research, policies and professional practice. Radiant systems are encountering great success since the low-thickness systems can also be used in renovation projects for both heating and cooling, while guaranteeing optimal comfort. However, dehumidification is often required for optimal radiant cooling operation with no condensation risks, and the great potential of mechanical ventilation systems to optimally address the needs for dehumidification, air renewal, health and energy efficiency appears to be far from its full exploitation in the post-COVID-19 era. The present paper aims at providing a quantification of the energy and financial impacts of the implementation of a controlled mechanical ventilation system (CMV) coupled to a radiant system in a typical residential case study building in Italy. The results show that the sole CMV may decrease primary energy demand and energy costs by more than 30% and contribute to an increase in the smart readiness of the building by 8%, but further incentive policies must be developed to cover the still high investment and maintenance cost.
The Effect of Collector Azimuth on Inter-Row Shading in Photovoltaic Fields—A Comprehensive Point of View
Authors: Aronescu Avi , Appelbaum Joseph
Published: June 2023

Rooftop buildings, mountain terrains, rivers, and lake beds may be oriented at different azimuths other than due south (in the northern hemisphere), on which photovoltaic (PV) systems may be installed. The present study presents a comprehensive point of view on the relation between the inter-row spacing and the inter-row shading in multiple-row collectors of PV fields; it analytically formulates the inter-row spacing and the associated shading losses for collectors deployed at any azimuth on horizontal, sloped-planed, and oriented toward the south and north, and is supported by the numerical results. Several criteria for the inter-row spacing are applied in the study; among them is a newly introduced criterion appropriate for the collectors deployed at a given azimuth. This study indicates that shorter spacing results in increased shading; minimum shading is obtained for collectors oriented toward the equator; inter-row spacing for maintenance purposes is used in limited dimensions of the PV fields and, usually, in optimal PV system designs; less shading occurs for systems deployed on sloped planes oriented toward the south; less shading is obtained for collectors based on the new criterion, where collectors are deployed at azimuth equal to the solar azimuth, and larger spacing is required for collectors deployed on northern slopes.
Research and Analysis of Promotional Policies for Small Hydropower Generation in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Kuo-Chen , Lin Jui-Chu , Chang Wen-Te , Yen Chia-Szu , Fu Huang-Jie
Published: June 2023

To achieve the net zero emission target by 2050, Taiwan is committed to promoting solar photovoltaic and offshore wind power. However, in order to ensure the stable supply of renewable energy, it should actively develop low-cost and mature base load renewable energy sources, such as small hydropower. By the end of 2021, Taiwan’s hydropower (excluding pumped storage hydropower) had a total installed capacity of 2094 MW, accounting for 18.6% of the overall renewable energy ratio, with an average growth rate of 0.05% from 2016 to 2021. It is mainly limited by the need for low environmental and ecological impact, so it is relatively difficult to install large-scale hydropower; therefore, Taiwan has turned to the development of environmentally friendly small hydropower generation. In order to actively develop small hydropower generation and resolve development concerns, Taiwan has established a “Small Hydropower and Renewable Energy Development Strategy Platform”. The current effective cases are mostly in the fields of the Taiwan Power Company, Water Resources Agency, and Council of Agriculture. The private sector has not yet shown its investment in the field. The reasons for this can be summarized as cumbersome administrative procedures, regulatory restrictions, insufficient economic incentives, and lack of technical capacity. The higher-level supervision mechanisms (such as the Executive Yuan level) are also the main key to whether small hydropower can be quickly promoted. In view of this, this study analyzes the current situation and policies to promote small hydropower generation policy recommendations through a literature review and comparison of international promotion experience. Some recommendations have also been incorporated into the newly revised Renewable Energy Development Act in 2023, such as relaxing the definition of small hydropower generation and incorporating water conservancy construction facilities that can be combined with power generation to improve site diversification. Other suggestions mentioned in the text can also be used as a reference for subsequent policy promotion in the future.
Risk Assessment and Reliability Analysis of Oil Pump Unit Based on D-S Evidence Theory
Authors: Zhang Xing , Wei Ranran , Wu Zhicai , Dong Liang , Liu Houlin
Published: June 2023

Oil pumps are crucial equipment in pipeline transportation, and their safe and reliable operation is essential for the smooth and efficient operation of the oil station and associated pipelines. The failure of oil pumps can result in significant consequences, making it crucial to evaluate their safety for effective maintenance and reliable system prediction. Failure mode, effects, and criticality analysis (FMECA) is a quantitative fault analysis technique that assigns priority to fault modes using the risk priority number (RPN). However, the RPN may not accurately express uncertainty judgments of risk factors given by multiple experts. To address this limitation, this paper proposes a novel FMECA method based on the D-S evidence theory. The method involves using interval form to obtain risk factor evaluations from experts and data combination to obtain a multi-value representation of the RPN for each fault mode. The prioritization of fault modes is optimized using confidence and fidelity distribution to eliminate multiple modes of the same level. Finally, the normalization method is used to determine the risk degree ranking of oil pump units. Overall, the proposed method is an effective and practical approach for the risk evaluation and reliability analysis of oil pump units.
The Effect of Milking Frequency, Breed, and Stage of Lactation on the Milk Fat Globule Size and Fatty Acid Composition in Sheep’s Milk
Authors: Massouras Theofilos , Charmanta Aggeliki-Alexandra , Koutsouli Panagiota , Masoura Maria , Politis Ioannis , Hettinga Kasper
Published: June 2023

This study examined the effects of milking frequency, breed, and stage of lactation on the milk fat globules (MFG) size and fatty acids (FA) composition of sheep milk. Milk from Karagouniko (n = 13) and Chios (n = 13) ewes was sampled postpartum on the 93rd, 101st, 108th, 121st, 156th, and 188th days of lactation. On the 108th day, the ewes were divided randomly into two milking groups: Once daily at 06:00 a.m. or twice daily at 06:00 a.m. and 16:00 p.m. Morphometric characteristics of MFG and FA composition were determined for each sample. Once versus twice daily milking had no effect on MFG dimensions, which tended to vary according to breed (smaller MFG were secreted from Chios with p = 0.065), while the stage of lactation had a significant effect (p < 0.001). FA composition differed significantly according to the stage of lactation and breed. The FA profile of the Karagouniko breed showed higher concentrations of short-chain FA. The milk samples from late lactation were characterized by higher concentrations of mono-unsaturated FA (MUFA) compared to early and mid-lactation. Moreover, correlations were found between the average diameter of MFG and FA concentrations, where the size of MFG was positively correlated with saturated FA (SFA) and negatively correlated with MUFA.
Optimization of the Spray-Drying Encapsulation of Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil
Authors: Čulina Patricija , Zorić Zoran , Garofulić Ivona Elez , Repajić Maja , Dragović-Uzelac Verica , Pedisić Sandra
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of spray-drying parameters on the physicochemical properties of encapsulated sea buckthorn berry oil. Different carriers (gum arabic, β-cyclodextrin, and their mixture (1:1, w/w)), inlet air temperatures (120, 150, and 180 °C), and carrier-to-oil ratios (2, 3, and 4, w/w) were evaluated. The obtained powders were characterized in terms of the product yield (36.79–64.60%), encapsulation efficiency (73.08–93.18%), moisture content (0.23–3.70%), hygroscopicity (1.5–7.06 g/100 g), solubility (19.55–74.70%), bulk density (0.25–0.44 g/L), total carotenoid content (mg/100 g dm), and antioxidant capacity (871.83–1454.39 μmol TE/100 g dm). All physicochemical properties were significantly affected by the carrier-to-oil ratio and inlet air temperature. Higher carrier-to-oil ratios increased the product yield, encapsulation efficiency, solubility, and bulk density and decreased the powder hygroscopicity. Elevating the drying temperatures during spray drying also increased the product yield, encapsulation efficiency, and solubility, while it decreased the powder moisture content, total carotenoid content, and antioxidant capacity. Based on the physicochemical properties, the use of β-cyclodextrin as a carrier, a drying temperature of 120 °C, and a carrier-to-oil ratio of 4 were selected as optimal conditions for the production of sea buckthorn berry oil powder. The obtained powder is a valuable material for a wide range of applications in the food and nutraceutical industries.
First Investigation of the Physiological Distribution of Legacy and Emerging Perfluoroalkyl Substances in Raw Bovine Milk According to the Component Fraction
Authors: Draghi Susanna , Pavlovic Radmila , Pellegrini Alberto , Fidani Marco , Riva Federica , Brecchia Gabriele , Agradi Stella , Arioli Francesco , Vigo Daniele , Di Cesare Federica , Curone Giulio
Published: June 2023

Bovine milk is a pillar of the human diet and plays a key role in the nutrition of infants. Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are well-recognized highly stable organic compounds that are able to pollute ecosystems persistently and threaten both human and animal health. The study aimed to analyze the distribution of 14 PFASs within the milk matrix by comparing their content in whole milk, and its skimmed and creamed fractions. Raw milk samples were individually collected from 23 healthy cows (10 primiparous and 13 multiparous) reared on a farm in Northern Italy not surrounded by known point sources of PFASs. Each sample was fractioned in whole, skim, and cream components to undergo PFAS analysis using liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry. All samples contained at least one PFAS, with perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) being the primary contaminant in all three fractions, followed by perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). PFOS was shown to be significantly (p < 0.001) more concentrated in cream than in raw and skimmed milk. Multiparous cows showed a higher frequency of positive samples in all analyzed fractions. Further research is necessary to assess the risk of dairy diets and high-fat dairy products and to investigate the toxicological effects of PFASs on cattle, even in environments without known PFAS sources.
LDPE and PLA Active Food Packaging Incorporated with Lemon by-Products Extract: Preparation, Characterization and Effectiveness to Delay Lipid Oxidation in Almonds and Beef Meat
Authors: Andrade Mariana A. , Barbosa Cássia H. , Mariño-Cortegoso Sandra , Barbosa-Pereira Letricia , Sendón Raquel , Buonocore Giovanna G. , Stanzione Mariamelia , Coelho Anabela , Correia Cristina Belo , Saraiva Margarida , Quirós Ana Rodríguez-Bernaldo de , Vilarinho Fernanda , Khwaldia Khaoula , Silva Ana Sanches , Ramos Fernando
Published: June 2023

Low-density polyethylene-based packaging with 4% lemon extract (LDPE/4LE) and two polylactic-based (PLA) packaging materials with 4% and 6% lemon extract (PLA/PEG/4LE and PLA/6LE) were produced. O2 and water permeability tests were performed, the total and individual phenolic compounds content were measured, and the films’ antioxidant activities were determined. The films’ ability to delay lipid oxidation was tested in two model foods: almonds, packaged with LDPE/4LE, PLA/4LE and PLA/6LE for a maximum period of 60 days at 40 °C (accelerated assay); and beef meat, packaged with the PLA/6LE for a maximum period of 11 days at 4 °C. The LE improved the WVP in all of the active films by 33%, 20% and 60% for the LDPE/4LE, PLA/4LE and PLA/6LE films, respectively. At the end of 10 days, the migration of phenolic compounds through the PLA films was measured to be 142.27 and 114.9 μg/dm2 for the PLA/4LE and PLA/6LE films, respectively, and was significantly higher than phenolic compounds migration measured for the LDPE/4LE (15.97 μg/dm2). Naringenin, apigenin, ferulic acid, eriocitrin, hesperidin and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid were the main identified compounds in the PLA, but only 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, naringenin and p-coumaric acid were identified in the LDPE films. Regarding the films’ ability to delay lipid oxidation, LDPE/4LE presented the best results, showing a capacity to delay lipid oxidation in almonds for 30 days. When applied to raw beef meat, the PLA/6LE packaging was able to significantly inhibit lipid oxidation for 6 days, and successfully inhibited total microorganisms’ growth until the 8th day of storage.
Theogallin-to-Gallic-Acid Ratio as a Potential Biomarker of Pu-Erh Teas
Authors: Karwowska Kaja , Kozłowska-Tylingo Katarzyna , Skotnicka Magdalena , Śmiechowska Maria
Published: June 2023

There are two types of Pu-erh tea available on the world market: Raw and Ripe. It is not difficult to tell them apart if the Raw version is relatively young. Researchers have already developed various tools to identify Pu-erh teas. However, they are quite complicated and require advanced statistical analyses. In addition, they are characterized by different levels of accuracy. The aim of the work was to identify relationships or differences that would easily give specific results for identifying types of Pu-erh tea. The content of selected methylxanthines was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on an Agilent 1200 chromatograph with a UV-VIS diode array detector. The total analysis time was 28 min. A combination of liquid chromatography and a triple quadrupole mass spectrophotometer was used to identify gallic acid and theogallin in the analyzed samples. A multivariate cluster analysis was used to compare the results for single samples, and its results were presented in horizontal hierarchical tree plots. The quantitative determination showed that theophylline is present only in Ripe Pu-erh teas. In addition, it was shown that the ratio of theogallin to gallic acid can be an effective tool to verify the authenticity of Pu-erh varieties.
Bifurcation Analysis and Fractional PD Control of Gene Regulatory Networks with sRNA
Authors: Liu Feng , Zhao Juan , Sun Shujiang , Wang Hua , Yang Xiuqin
Published: June 2023

This paper investigates the problem of bifurcation analysis and bifurcation control of a fractional-order gene regulatory network with sRNA. Firstly, the process of stability change of system equilibrium under the influence of the sum of time delay is discussed, the critical condition of Hopf bifurcation is explored, and the effect of fractional order on the system stability domain. Secondly, aiming at the system’s instability caused by a large time delay, we design a controller to improve the system’s stability and derive the parameter conditions that satisfy the system’s stability. It is found that changing the parameter values of the controller within a certain range can control the system’s nonlinear behaviours and effectively expand the stability range. Then, a numerical example is given to illustrate the results of this paper.
A Mini Atlas of H-Band Spectra of Southern Symbiotic Stars
Authors: Marchiano Paula Esther , Arias María Laura , Kraus Michaela , Kourniotis Michalis , Torres Andrea Fabiana , Cidale Lydia Sonia , Fernandes Marcelo Borges
Published: June 2023

Symbiotic stars are interacting binary systems composed of an evolved star (generally a late-type red giant) and a degenerate or dwarf companion in orbit close enough for mass transfer to occur. Understanding the status of the late-type star is important for developing binary models for the symbiotic systems as it affects the transfer of matter needed to activate the hot component. Infrared observations have been very useful in probing the nature of late-type stars in symbiotic systems. This work presents a set of symbiotic stars observed with SOAR/OSIRIS (R∼3000) in the H-band. We aimed to search for possible molecular circumstellar emission, to characterize the cool companion in these systems, and to confront the new findings with those obtained from the previous K-band classifications. We detected molecular emission from just one object, BI Cru, which displays the second-overtone CO-bands. To fit the observed photospheric CO absorption bands, we used the MARCS atmosphere models. We present our results as a mini atlas of symbiotic stars in the near-infrared region to facilitate the comparison among different observed symbiotic systems.
Study on the Protective Immunity Induced by Pseudotyped Baculovirus Expressing the E Protein of Tembusu Virus in Ducklings
Authors: Ni Zheng , Yun Tao , Chen Liu , Ye Weicheng , Hua Jionggang , Zhu Yinchu , Liu Guangqing , Zhang Cun
Published: June 2023

The Duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV), a pathogenic flavivirus, has been causing significant economic losses in the Chinese poultry industry since 2010. This virus can severely decrease egg production and inhibit the growth of laying ducks and ducklings. While many vaccines have been developed to prevent DTMUV infection, fresh outbreaks continue to occur, as few effective vaccines are available. The E glycoprotein of DTMUV is the primary target for inducing protective immunity in the natural host. Therefore, we conducted an investigation and successfully developed a recombinant baculovirus containing the DTMUV E gene. Ducklings were then vaccinated with the purified protein derived from this virus as a potential vaccine candidate. Our findings demonstrated that the E glycoprotein of DTMUV was highly expressed in Sf9 cells. The vaccination of ducklings with the recombinant baculovirus Bac-E resulted in the induction of strong humoral and cellular immune responses. Most significantly, we observed that the vaccine provided 100% protective immunity against lethal challenges with the DTMUV YY5 strain.
Use of Advance Directives in US Veterans and Non-Veterans: Findings from the Decedents of the Health and Retirement Study 1992–2014
Authors: Tung Ho-Jui , Yeh Ming-Chin
Published: June 2023

Evidence shows that older patients with advance directives such as a living will, or durable power of attorney for healthcare, are more likely to receive care consistent with their preferences at the end of life. Less is known about the use of advance directives between veteran and non-veteran older Americans. Using data from the decedents of a longitudinal survey, we explore whether there is a difference in having an established advance directive between the veteran and non-veteran decedents. Data were taken from the Harmonized End of Life data sets, a linked collection of variables derived from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) Exit Interview. Only male decedents were included in the current analysis (N = 4828). The dependent variable, having an established advance directive, was measured by asking the proxy, “whether the deceased respondent ever provided written instructions about the treatment or care he/she wanted to receive during the final days of his/her life” and “whether the deceased respondent had a Durable Power of Attorney for healthcare?” A “yes” to either of the two items was counted as having an advance directive. The independent variable, veteran status, was determined by asking participants, “Have you ever served in the active military of the United States?” at their first HRS core interview. Logistic regression was used to predict the likelihood of having an established advance directive. While there was no difference in having an advance directive between male veteran and non-veteran decedents during the earlier follow-up period (from 1992 to 2003), male veterans who died during the second half of the study period (from 2004 to 2014) were more likely to have an established advance directive than their non-veteran counterparts (OR = 1.24, p < 0.05). Other factors positively associated with having an established advance directive include dying at older ages, higher educational attainment, needing assistance in activities of daily living and being bedridden three months before death, while Black decedents and those who were married were less likely to have an advance directive in place. Our findings suggest male veterans were more likely to have an established advance directive, an indicator for better end-of-life care, than their non-veteran counterparts. This observed difference coincides with a time when the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) increased its investment in end-of-life care. More studies are needed to confirm if this higher utilization of advance directives and care planning among veterans can be attributed to the improved access and quality of end-of-life care in the VHA system.
Digital Biobanking and Big Data as a New Research Tool: A Position Paper
Authors: Tozzo Pamela , Delicati Arianna , Marcante Beatrice , Caenazzo Luciana
Published: June 2023

Big data analytics in medicine is driving significant change, as it offers vital information for improving functions, developing cutting-edge solutions and overcoming inefficiencies. With the right archiving and analysis tools, all players in the healthcare system, from hospitals to patients and from medical personnel to the pharmaceutical industry, can yield numerous benefits. Therefore, to analyze and interpret these analytics effectively, so that they can be useful for the advancement of scientific knowledge, we require information sharing, specific skills, training, integration between all system players, unique infrastructures and security. All these characteristics will make it possible to establish and harmonize real big data biobanks, for which it will be appropriate to consider new forms of governance compared to those traditionally conceived for large-sample biobanks.
Association between Death or Hospitalization and Observable Variables of Eating and Swallowing Function among Elderly Residents in Long-Term Care Facilities: A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Takeda Maaya , Watanabe Yutaka , Taira Kenshu , Miura Kazuhito , Ohara Yuki , Iwasaki Masanori , Ito Kayoko , Nakajima Junko , Iwasa Yasuyuki , Itoda Masataka , Nishi Yasuhiro , Watanabe Yoshihiko , Kishima Masako , Hirano Hirohiko , Shirobe Maki , Minakuchi Shunsuke , Yoshida Mitsuyoshi , Yamazaki Yutaka
Published: June 2023

This 1-year multicenter prospective cohort study aimed to determine the association between observable eating and swallowing function factors and outcomes (death/hospitalization or survival) among elderly persons in long-term care insurance facilities in Japan. Baseline assessments of factors, such as language, drooling, halitosis, hypersalivation, tongue movement, perioral muscle function, coughing, respiration after swallowing, rinsing, and oral residue, among others, were conducted. A score of 0 was considered positive, and a score of 1 or 2 was considered negative. Patient age, sex, body mass index, Barthel index, and Clinical Dementia Rating were recorded. The death/hospitalization or survival rates over 1 year were recorded, and patients were allocated into groups depending on the respective outcome (death/hospitalization group or survival group) and baseline characteristics. A total of 986 residents from 32 facilities were included, with 216 in the death/hospitalization group and 770 in the survival group. Language, salivation, halitosis, perioral muscle, coughing, respiration after swallowing, rinsing, and oral residue were significantly associated with the outcomes (p < 0.05). Therefore, routine performance of these simple assessments by caregivers may allow early detection and treatment to prevent death, pneumonia, aspiration, and malnutrition in elderly persons.
Emotional and Behavioural Problems among Preschool Children in Northeast Peninsular Malaysia: Parent Report Version
Authors: Abd Rahim Mohamad Hazni , Ibrahim Mohd Ismail , Ab Rahman Azriani , Yaacob Najib Majdi , Hashim Nor Syuhada Farhanis
Published: June 2023

The rising prevalence of mental health disorders among children is a serious concern. Young children who exhibit early warning signs of mental health issues are more likely to develop symptoms in the same or overlapping regions years later. The research aimed to identify emotional and behavioural problems and associated factors in Malaysian preschools. A sample of young children aged 4–6 years from public and private preschools was chosen using a multistage random sampling method. Data were collected from 18 preschools via a parent survey using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The sample involved 557 children in the SDQ assessment (92%). The overall estimated prevalence of emotional and behavioural problems was 8.4%. Peer problems were the most prevalent attribute, with a percentage of 19.7%. Conduct problems were found in 5.2%, hyperactivity problems in 5.6%, prosocial behaviours in 13.5%, and emotional problems in 6.8%. Girls showed a significant increase in behavioural and emotional problems compared to boys. Having one parent working, having more than two siblings, and having a single-parent family were associated with emotional and behavioural problems. The prevalence of emotional and behavioural problems in Malaysian children was relatively low compared to data from previous studies and other Asian countries but consistent with European studies. Measuring mental health disparities in young children helps stakeholders launch local early intervention programmes.
Effect of Scapular Fixation on Lateral Movement and Scapular Rotation during Glenohumeral Lateral Distraction Mobilisation
Authors: López-de-Celis Carlos , Caudevilla-Polo Santos , Pérez-Bellmunt Albert , González-Rueda Vanessa , Bueno-Gracia Elena , Estébanez-de-Miguel Elena
Published: June 2023

Background: Glenohumeral lateral distraction mobilisation (GLDM) is used in patients with shoulder mobility dysfunction. No one has examined the effect of scapular fixation during GLDM. The aim was to measure and compare the lateral movement of the humeral head and the rotational movement of the scapula when three different magnitudes of forces were applied during GLDM, with and without scapular fixation. Methods: Seventeen volunteers were recruited (n = 25 shoulders). Three magnitudes of GLDM force (low, medium, and high) were applied under fixation and non-fixation scapular conditions in the open-packed position. Lateral movement of the humeral head was assessed with ultrasound, and a universal goniometer assessed scapular rotation. Results: The most significant increase in the distance between the coracoid and the humeral head occurred in the scapular fixation condition at all three high-force magnitudes (3.72 mm; p < 0.001). More significant scapular rotation was observed in the non-scapular fixation condition (12.71°). A difference in scapula rotation (10.1°) was observed between scapular fixation and non-scapular fixation during high-force application. Conclusions: Scapular fixation resulted in more significant lateral movement of the humeral head than in the non-scapular fixation condition during three intensities of GLDM forces. The scapular position did not change during GLDM with the scapular fixation condition.