bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Wildlife Detection Using Thermal Imaging Drones: Designing the Flight Path
Authors: Chang Byungwoo , Hwang Byungmook , Lim Wontaek , Kim Hankyu , Kang Wanmo , Park Yong-Su , Ko Dongwook W.
Published: January 2025

Thermal imaging drones have transformed wildlife monitoring by facilitating the efficient and noninvasive monitoring of animal populations across large areas. In this study, an optimized flight path design was developed for monitoring wildlife on Guleopdo Island, South Korea using the DJI Mavic 3T drone equipped with a thermal camera. We employed a strata-based sampling technique to reclassify topographical and land cover information, creating an optimal survey plan. Using sampling strata, key waypoints were derived, on the basis of which nine flight paths were designed to cover ~50% of the study area. The results demonstrated that an optimized flight path improved the accuracy of detecting Formosan sika deer (Cervus nippon taiouanus). Population estimates indicated at least 128 Formosan sika deer, with higher detection efficiency observed during cloudy weather. Customizing flight paths based on the habitat characteristics proved crucial for efficient monitoring. This study highlights the potential of thermal imaging drones for accurately estimating wildlife populations and supporting conservation efforts.
An Efficient Retinal Fluid Segmentation Network Based on Large Receptive Field Context Capture for Optical Coherence Tomography Images
Authors: Qi Hang , Wang Weijiang , Dang Hua , Chen Yueyang , Jia Minli , Wang Xiaohua
Published: January 2025

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a crucial imaging modality for diagnosing and monitoring retinal diseases. However, the accurate segmentation of fluid regions and lesions remains challenging due to noise, low contrast, and blurred edges in OCT images. Although feature modeling with wide or global receptive fields offers a feasible solution, it typically leads to significant computational overhead. To address these challenges, we propose LKMU-Lite, a lightweight U-shaped segmentation method tailored for retinal fluid segmentation. LKMU-Lite integrates a Decoupled Large Kernel Attention (DLKA) module that captures both local patterns and long-range dependencies, thereby enhancing feature representation. Additionally, it incorporates a Multi-scale Group Perception (MSGP) module that employs Dilated Convolutions with varying receptive field scales to effectively predict lesions of different shapes and sizes. Furthermore, a novel Aggregating-Shift decoder is proposed, reducing model complexity while preserving feature integrity. With only 1.02 million parameters and a computational complexity of 3.82 G FLOPs, LKMU-Lite achieves state-of-the-art performance across multiple metrics on the ICF and RETOUCH datasets, demonstrating both its efficiency and generalizability compared to existing methods.
Introducing ActiveInference.jl: A Julia Library for Simulation and Parameter Estimation with Active Inference Models
Authors: Nehrer Samuel William , Ehrenreich Laursen Jonathan , Heins Conor , Friston Karl , Mathys Christoph , Thestrup Waade Peter
Published: January 2025

We introduce a new software package for the Julia programming language, the library ActiveInference.jl. To make active inference agents with Partially Observable Markov Decision Process (POMDP) generative models available to the growing research community using Julia, we re-implemented the pymdp library for Python. ActiveInference.jl is compatible with cutting-edge Julia libraries designed for cognitive and behavioural modelling, as it is used in computational psychiatry, cognitive science and neuroscience. This means that POMDP active inference models can now be easily fit to empirically observed behaviour using sampling, as well as variational methods. In this article, we show how ActiveInference.jl makes building POMDP active inference models straightforward, and how it enables researchers to use them for simulation, as well as fitting them to data or performing a model comparison.
Wealth Distribution Involving Psychological Traits and Non-Maxwellian Collision Kernel
Authors: Wang Daixin , Lai Shaoyong
Published: January 2025

A kinetic exchange model is developed to investigate wealth distribution in a market. The model incorporates a value function that captures the agents’ psychological traits, governing their wealth allocation based on behavioral responses to perceived potential losses and returns. To account for the impact of transaction frequency on wealth dynamics, a non-Maxwellian collision kernel is introduced. Applying quasi-invariant limits and Boltzmann-type equations, a Fokker–Planck equation is derived. We obtain an entropy explicit stationary solution that exhibits exponential convergence to a lognormal wealth distribution. Numerical experiments support the theoretical insights and highlight the model’s significance in understanding wealth distribution.
Multi-Objective Coordinated Control of Smart Inverters and Legacy Devices
Authors: Olowu Temitayo O. , Odeyomi Olusola
Published: January 2025

This work proposes multi-objective two-stage distribution optimal power flow (D-OPF) to coordinate the use of smart inverters (SIs) and existing voltage control legacy devices. The first stage of multi-objective D-OPF aims to solve a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) formulation that minimizes both voltage variation and active power loss, with SI modes, SI settings, voltage regulator (VR) taps, and capacitor bank (CB) status as control variables. The Pareto Optimal Solutions obtained from the first-stage MINLP are used to determine the optimal active–reactive power dispatch from the SIs by solving a nonlinear programming formulation in the second stage of the proposed D-OPF. This model guarantees that the setpoints for active–reactive power align with the droop characteristics of the SIs, ensuring practicability and the autonomous dispatch of active–reactive power by the SIs according to IEEE 1547-2018. The effectiveness of the proposed method is tested on the IEEE 123 distribution network by contrasting the two proposed D-OPF models, with one prioritizing SIs for voltage control and power loss minimization and the other not prioritizing SIs. The simulation results demonstrate that prioritizing SIs with optimal mode and droop settings can improve voltage control and power loss minimization. The proposed model (with SI prioritization) also reduces the usage of traditional grid control devices and optimizes the dispatch of active–reactive power. The POS also shows that the SI modes, droops, and legacy device settings can be effectively obtained based on the desired objective priority.
Numerical Analysis of the Influence of Frost Layers on the Heat Transfer Characteristics of Cryogenic Valves for Polar LNG Ships
Authors: Li Shengpeng , Lin Baolong , Bai Xu , Wei Pengyu , Wang Lian , Zhang Ruonan
Published: January 2025

To investigate the impact of frost-layer formation on the heat transfer characteristics of cryogenic valves in LNG vessels, this study derived the temporal variation in the valve’s temperature field based on the thermodynamic characteristic parameters of the low-temperature valve. Additionally, a frost formation model was developed for the drip tray. This considered the physical model characteristics of the tray, and the frost thickness was calculated for different times. The morphology of the calculated frost layer was coupled with the low-temperature valve model for heat transfer calculations to explore the influence of the frost layer on valve heat transfer characteristics. The results show that, in the initial stage of frost formation, the frost layer acts similarly to a finned heat sink, enhancing the thermal exchange efficiency at the surface of the drip tray, which results in a temperature increase in the drip tray and stuffing box compared to the frost-free condition. However, as the frost layer grows on the surface of the drip tray, the surface heat transfer resistance increases, gradually diminishing the enhancing effect of the frost layer on the heat dissipation of the drip tray. The results validate the dual role of the frost layer in the heat transfer process of low-temperature valves, providing important insights for the design and optimization of such valves.
Effect of Macrocapsule Geometry on PCM Performance for Thermal Regulation in Buildings
Authors: Gonçalves Margarida , Figueiredo António , Vela German , Rebelo Filipe , Almeida Ricardo M. S. F. , Oliveira Mónica S. A. , Vicente Romeu
Published: January 2025

The integration of phase-change materials (PCMs) into thermal energy storage systems offers significant potential for reducing energy consumption and improving thermal comfort, crucial issues for achieving sustainable building stocks. Nevertheless, the performance of PCM-based systems is strongly influenced by the container geometry. Among the various forms of incorporating PCMs into building applications, macroencapsulation is the most versatile and is, therefore, widely used. Herewith, this paper analyzes the impact of macrocapsule geometry on PCM thermal performance. Thermal properties of the material were first tested using Differential Scanning Calorimetry at five heating/cooling rates to evaluate its influence on phase-change temperatures and enthalpy. Then, an experimental setup evaluated four macrocapsule geometries on the enclosed PCM behavior during charging and discharging processes. The PCM characterization revealed that the slowest-tested rate minimized the supercooling effect. Analysis across different macrocapsule geometries showed that sectioning the contact surface improved heat transfer efficiency by fully mobilizing the PCM and reducing phase-change times. Conversely, double-layered geometry designs hindered heat transfer, presenting challenges in completing PCM charging and discharging. These findings suggest that optimizing its performance is a necessary direction for further research, which may include adjusting the PCM operating temperature range across layers or redesigning the geometry to misalign contact surfaces.
A Comparator-Less Buck Converter with Fast Transient Response Using a Reactive Ramp Generator
Authors: Kim Young-Kyu , Jang Chung-Hee , Shin Dong-Hyun , Baek Kwang-Hyun
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces a voltage-mode DC-DC buck converter designed to address the challenges of high-frequency operation. The proposed comparator-less Reactive Ramp Generator (RRG) topology mitigates the issues associated with comparator delays, achieving a fast load transient response. By eliminating all comparators from the buck converter’s control circuit, we prevent potential delay-induced malfunctions, thereby enhancing overall operational reliability. The rapid response of the RRG, enabled by a short feedback loop, allows for swift output voltage regulation during load transients. Replacing comparators in the PWM controller with inverters effectively removes delay issues without adding complexity. Since the proposed design retains the conventional voltage-mode transfer function, standard type-3 compensation is readily applicable. Operating with a 3.3 V input, the buck converter provides an output range from 0.65 V to 3.0 V, achieving a settling time of 0.802 µs for load changes from 200 mA to 1 A, and 1.27 µs for load changes from 1 A to 200 mA. The proposed architecture achieves a peak efficiency of 92.78% at 2.4 V and 600 mA.
Accelerated Modeling of Transients in Electromagnetic Devices Based on Magnetoelectric Substitution Circuits
Authors: Tykhovod Sergii , Orlovskyi Ihor
Published: January 2025

During switching in electrical systems, transient electromagnetic processes occur. The resulting dangerous current surges are best studied by computer simulation. However, the time required for computer simulation of such processes is significant for complex electromagnetic devices, which is undesirable. The use of spectral methods can significantly speed up the calculation of transient processes and ensure high accuracy. At present, we are not aware of publications showing the use of spectral methods for calculating transient processes in electromagnetic devices containing ferromagnetic cores. The purpose of the work: The objective of this work is to develop a highly effective method for calculating electromagnetic transient processes in a coil with a ferromagnetic magnetic core connected to a voltage source. The method involves the use of nonlinear magnetoelectric substitution circuits for electromagnetic devices and a spectral method for representing solution functions using orthogonal polynomials. Additionally, a schematic model for applying the spectral method is developed. Obtained Results: A method for calculating transients in magnetoelectric circuits based on approximating solution functions with algebraic orthogonal polynomial series is proposed and studied. This helps to transform integro-differential state equations into linear algebraic equations for the representations of the solution functions. The developed schematic model simplifies the use of the calculation method. Representations of true electric and magnetic current functions are interpreted as direct currents in the proposed substitution circuit. Based on these methods, a computer program is created to simulate transient processes in a magnetoelectric circuit. Comparing the application of various polynomials enables the selection of the optimal polynomial type. The proposed method has advantages over other known methods. These advantages include reducing the simulation time for electromagnetic transient processes (in the examples considered, by more than 12 times than calculations using the implicit Euler method) while ensuring the same level of accuracy. The simulation of processes over a long time interval demonstrate error reduction and stabilization. This indicates the potential of the proposed method for simulating processes in more complex electromagnetic devices, (for example, transformers).
Efficient Production of Fuel Ethanol via the Simultaneous Use of Distillery Stillage Biomass and Beet Molasses
Authors: Osmolak Katarzyna , Mikulski Dawid , Kłosowski Grzegorz
Published: January 2025

The integrated production of ethanol fuel through the simultaneous use of various by-products and waste materials is an intriguing concept, as it maximizes the raw material potential while addressing the challenge of managing waste biomass from different technological processes. The efficient utilization of lignocellulosic waste depends on employing a pretreatment method that enhances the susceptibility of structural polysaccharides to hydrolysis. The aim of the study was to assess the possibility of the simultaneous use of corn stillage biomass and beet molasses as raw materials for the production of ethanol fuel. The research focused on optimizing the process conditions for the acid pretreatment of stillage biomass and the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose and evaluating the effectiveness of two fermentation strategies: SHF (Separate Hydrolysis and Fermentation) and SSF (Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation). The highest hydrolysis susceptibility was observed in biomass pretreated with 2% v/v H3PO4 for 30 min at 121 °C. The maximum glucose concentration of about 12 g/L (hydrolysis efficiency about 35.5%) was achieved even with the lowest enzyme dose, i.e., 7.5 FPU per gram of biomass. The yeast also showed high fermentation activity in media prepared from stillage biomass and molasses, producing about 50 g/L of ethanol regardless of the fermentation strategy used. The complete fermentation of carbohydrates assimilated by yeast confirmed the complementarity of the two raw materials used to prepare fermentation media, emphasizing the high potential of the proposed technological solution for ethanol fuel production.
Critical Review of Advances and Numerical Modeling in Absorbers and Desorbers of Absorption Chillers: CFD Applications, Constraints, and Future Prospects
Authors: Alcântara Suellen , da Costa José , Ochoa Alvaro , Leite Gustavo , Lima Álvaro , Silva Héber , Michima Paula , da Silveira Igor , de Araújo Caldas Allysson , Altamirano Amín
Published: January 2025

This article critically reviews advances and numerical modeling in absorbers and desorbers used in absorption refrigeration systems, emphasizing the applications, limitations, and future perspectives of computational fluid dynamics (CFD). This study’s main contribution lies in the detailed and critical analysis of the use of CFD in physical models of absorbers and generators of absorption chillers. In addition, several heat exchanger technologies, such as falling film, membranes, and bubbling, are addressed, highlighting CFD-based studies’ main findings and challenges. The article also explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in CFD analyses, aiming to optimize modeling and system performance. It was found that the application of CFD analyses in absorbers and desorbers of absorption systems has proven to be an essential tool for developing and optimizing these systems. Finally, research gaps were identified, especially regarding the miniaturization and optimization of these exchangers, and directions for future studies are proposed.
Microscopic Effect of Mixed Wetting Capillary Characteristics on Spontaneous Imbibition Oil Recovery in Tight Reservoirs
Authors: Pu Yu , Yang Erlong , Wang Di
Published: January 2025

The understanding of the mechanisms that govern water spontaneous imbibition in mixed wetting capillary channels plays a significant role in operating the oil extraction and energy replenishment for the tight oil reservoirs. In this work, the conservative form phase-field model together with the Navier–Stokes equation is employed to investigate the influence of the mixed wetting distribution and the wetting degree on the imbibition oil recovery effects and microscopic flow characteristics. Results indicate that there exist different oil detachment modes of spontaneous imbibition, and these modes are determined by the coupled effect of mixed wetting fraction and contact angle size. For the mixed wetting capillary with strong oil wetting, when fw is low, spontaneous imbibition can only partially detach the oil. Low fw slows down the fluid flow velocity and leads to the small imbibition oil recovery rate. After that, the influence of the surface contact angle size of the mixed wetting capillary is discussed. For the complete detachment mode, the capillary tube presents a form of water phase saturated filling, achieving the optimal imbibition oil recovery effect. For the mixed wetting capillary tube with the combination of weak water wetting and strong oil wetting (i.e., θw = 75° and θo = 165°), local spontaneous imbibition turbulence can only detach very little oil at the inlet of the water wetting area, ultimately achieving a recovery efficiency of less than 10%. This work illuminates the spontaneous imbibition oil recovery mechanisms and flow potentiality for the different mixed wetting capillary channels.
System Design of an Online Marketplace Towards the Standardisation of Sustainable Energy Efficiency Investments in Buildings
Authors: Andreoulaki Ioanna , Papapostolou Aikaterini , Stoian Daniela , Kefalas Konstantinos , Marinakis Vangelis
Published: January 2025

Nowadays, the increase in sustainable investments, especially when it comes to energy efficiency in buildings, has been recognised as an important pillar towards reductions in energy consumption. In this context, there is a need for efficient and user-friendly digital tools that can support decision-making procedures for all involved parties in the energy efficiency value chain. The scope of this paper is to present a high-level architecture and system design of the energy efficiency marketplace developed within the framework of the ENERGATE project, an EU-funded initiative aiming to assist Building Owners, Project Implementors, and Financial Institutions to collaborate and execute energy-efficient building renovations. To this end, structured data through predefined information entries will be collected. This will facilitate the interactions between heterogenous stakeholders and contribute to the standardisation of processes. The paper focuses on the functional description of the system design of the ENERGATE platform by defining the architecture, components, modules, interfaces, and structured data, as well as highlighting the requirements of potential platform users and design principles to meet the necessary requirements while ensuring security, reliability, and effectiveness.
A Comparison Between Industrial Energy Efficiency Measures in Guatemala and the United States
Authors: Khosla Radhika , Martinez Rodriguez Angel , Milcarek Ryan J. , Phelan Patrick E.
Published: January 2025

Energy auditing has been cited as a key tool in closing the gap between the actual energy consumption in industrial facilities and what should be at an environmentally sustainable level. Several factors affect the likelihood that energy audits will be effective in closing that gap, and more analysis is needed to understand these factors, especially for developing nations. This study compares three energy efficiency measures (EEMs) frequently recommended in both the United States and Guatemala, namely, installing solar panels to generate electricity, installing higher-efficiency lighting, and upgrading to premium efficiency motors. The implementation of each of these EEMs contributes to more sustainable energy consumption, and each of these EEM’s payback periods is affected by capital costs, energy costs, and other local factors analyzed in this study. Projected payback periods for each EEM based on Guatemalan and U.S. capital cost and energy cost ranges are assessed via EEM-specific payback period calculations and compared to the energy audit data from each country. While lower capital costs incentivize EEM implementation and reduce payback periods, there is an interplay between energy cost and capital cost that impacts the trends in the U.S. and Guatemala. As in the case of the solar panel installation EEM, though Guatemalan companies pay ~110% more for electricity than U.S. companies, when Guatemalan capital costs are lower, payback periods are lower than in the U.S. Conversely, in cases where Guatemalan capital costs are higher—as for higher-efficiency lighting and motor installation—Guatemalan payback periods are roughly the same as those in the U.S. because of the higher Guatemalan energy costs.
Air Bubbling Assisted Soil Washing to Treat PFAS in High Organic Content Soils
Authors: Londhe Kaushik , Venkatesan Arjun K.
Published: January 2025

The soil-washing technique has been successfully utilized for the remediation of PFAS-contaminated soils. Prior studies have shown that the organic carbon (OC) content and grain size of soil determined the efficiency of PFAS removal during washing. However, most of the past studies have focused on soils with a low OC content, typically ranging from 0–3%. In this study, we explored the use of a novel process where soil washing was combined with air bubbling (or foam fractionation) to aid in the removal of PFAS from high OC-content soils (~4–20%). Treatment with air bubbling of high OC soil (~20%) with perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) did not enhance their removal, as they featured low surface activity. However, we observed an improvement in the extraction of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) from 27% to 42% with bubbling, consistent with the higher surface activity of PFOS compared to PFOA and PFBS. Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) was irreversibly adsorbed to the high OC soil and was not removed efficiently by both bubbling and soil washing. A slight improvement in PFDA removal (6–13%) was observed when a co-surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium chloride) was added and when the OC content was reduced to ~4% by the addition of nonorganic sand to the contaminated soil prior to soil washing. This suggested that the interaction of PFDA with OC was the dominant factor determining its extraction from soil. In conclusion, our results indicated that soil washing alone was sufficient for the removal of short-chain PFAS from soil. Although bubbling had a mild effect on the removal of some long-chain PFAS from the solution, it did not help in the overall removal of PFAS from high OC soils, highlighting the difficulty in the treatment of high OC-content soils and that immobilization of PFAS would be an ideal approach in managing such contaminated sites.
Log End Face Feature Extraction and Matching Method Based on Swin Transformer V2
Authors: Xie Yuge , Zheng Jishi , Gou Aozhuo , Sattar Farhan , Liao Lyuchao
Published: January 2025

This study proposes a novel log end face feature extraction and matching method based on Swin Transformer V2, aiming to address limitations in accuracy and speed faced by traditional deep learning models, like InceptionResNetV2 and Vision Transformer. Accurate log identification is crucial for forestry and wood supply chain management, especially given the growing reliance on timber imports to meet industrial demands in construction, furniture manufacturing, and paper production. Our dataset comprises images of coniferous timber, specifically Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), reflecting its significance as an essential imported resource in China’s timber industry. By leveraging Swin Transformer V2 as the backbone, our method enhances feature extraction and achieves a significant accuracy improvement from 84.0% to 97.7% under random rotation angles while reducing the average matching time per log to 0.249 s. The model was evaluated under fixed and random rotation augmentations, and the results demonstrated Swin Transformer V2’s superior clustering ability, as confirmed by t-SNE visualization. Unlike InceptionResNetV2, the proposed model maintains high accuracy and efficiency even as the feature database size increases, making it suitable for large-scale applications. This approach provides a more accurate and efficient solution for log end-face recognition, supporting the development of high-throughput wood identification systems critical for forestry automation and the global timber trade.
The Role of Bitter-Tasting Substances in Salivation and Swallowing: Results of the Pilot Study
Authors: Oganesiants Ekaterina , Sarkisyan Varuzhan , Bilyalova Anastasiya , Isakov Vasily , Kochetkova Alla
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of caffeine, vanillin, and epigallocatechin gallate on salivation and swallowing and to find ways to correct their negative effects. Solutions of these substances with an equivalent intensity of bitter taste were compared for this purpose. To compensate for their effect, solutions of adenosine monophosphate, saliva substitute, and their combination were used. The results of the sialometric and surface electromyographic analyses demonstrate that all of the bitter substances studied exert a significant influence on the physiology of salivation and swallowing while exhibiting distinct modes of action. Caffeine has been shown to increase the area under the swallowing electromyographic curve, which is indicative of an increase in maximal amplitude. Epigallocatechin gallate has been linked to a reduction in salivation rate, an increase in duration, and a decrease in maximal intensity of the sEMG curve. Vanillin is demonstrated to reduce the area under the swallowing electromyographic curve due to a decline in both duration and maximal intensity. The addition of adenosine monophosphate to solutions of all substances under study resulted in a convergence of the salivary secretion and swallowing profile toward a profile that is characteristic of water. The findings can be utilized to modify the physiological responses to bitter-tasting substances when developing novel food formulations.
The Links Between Community-Based Financial Inclusion and Household Food Availability: Evidence from Mozambique
Authors: Tadesse Aweke , Li Kenan , Helton Jesse , Huang Jin , Ansong David
Published: January 2025

Financial inclusion can boost wealth, health, and quality of life. However, few studies have examined how women’s participation in community-based financial inclusion opportunities, such as village saving and loan groups (VSLGs), relates to household food security. Using program data from central Mozambique, this study examined whether low-income women’s participation in VSLGs directly increases household food availability, as well as indirectly through increased asset ownership. Employing a post-test-only comparison group quasi-experimental design, the study sampled 205 female VSLG participants and non-participants from three sub-villages in Mozambique’s Sofala province. Structural equation modeling (SEM) results indicated that low-income women’s participation in VSLGs is directly associated with a reduction in household hunger score (β = −0.21, p < 0.01), as well as indirectly associated through the mediating role of household assets ([Sobel indirect effect] = −0.06, p = 0.05). The VSLG participants showed a significant increase in household asset ownership compared to non-VSLG participants (β = 0.15, p < 0.05). Further, increased asset ownership significantly correlated with a lower probability of household hunger (β = −0.30, p < 0.01). The results suggest that community-based financial inclusion approaches could improve the availability of food through asset building among Mozambique’s low-income women. The study offers a potential strategy for policymakers and development experts to utilize community approaches to financial inclusion to improve rural and low-income women’s livelihoods.
The Effect of Lipids on the Structure and Function of Egg Proteins in Response to Pasteurization
Authors: Yang Hao , Shi Qiang , Wang Zhongliang , Chen Xiao , Min Fangfang , Meng Xuanyi , Tong Ping , Wu Yong , Chen Hongbing
Published: January 2025

In recent years, the consumption of liquid eggs has failed to meet the expectations of the public due to growing concerns regarding food safety and health. It is well known that there are interactions between the components in liquid eggs, and the interaction effect on the structure and functional properties of the proteins and antigenicity remains unclear. To investigate egg component interactions, we focused on four major egg lipids, namely phosphatidylcholine, palmitic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid, as well as four major egg proteins, including ovalbumin, ovotransferrin, ovomucoid, and lysozyme. The protein structural changes were analyzed using polypropylene gel electrophoresis, circular dichroism, ultraviolet absorption spectra, and exogenous fluorescence spectra, and the functional properties were assessed through solubility measurements and particle size analysis, while protein antigenicity was evaluated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. All the results revealed that oleic acid had the most significant effect on proteins’ secondary and tertiary structures, particularly affecting ovalbumin and ovotransferrin. Linoleic acid substantially increased the solubility of ovalbumin and ovomucoid, while palmitic acid significantly influenced the particle size of ovalbumin and lysozyme. Thus, we found that different lipids exhibit distinct effects on egg protein properties during pasteurization conditions, with oleic acid showing the most substantial impact on protein structure and antigenicity.
Characteristics of Soft Wheat and Tiger Nut (Cyperus esculentus) Composite Flour Bread
Authors: Nedviha Svitlana , Harasym Joanna
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the effects of tiger nut flour (TNF) incorporation (5–25%) on wheat-based bread characteristics. Dough rheology analysis revealed optimal gas retention at 10% TNF addition, while higher concentrations decreased dough stability. Physical analysis demonstrated that 10% TNF substitution yielded the highest specific volume (2.4 mL/g) and porosity (67.0%), with significant textural changes observed at higher concentrations. Bioactive compound analysis showed progressive increases in the total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity with increasing TNF levels, particularly in 25% TNF bread (111.31 mg TE/g dm in crumb). Storage studies over 7 days indicated that TNF incorporation affected bread staling characteristics, with 10–15% substitution levels maintaining better textural properties. The results suggest that TNF incorporation up to 15% can enhance bread’s nutritional value, while maintaining acceptable technological properties, with 10% substitution showing an optimal balance between functional benefits and bread quality.
Application of Environmental Cost Accounting to Reduce Emissions and Health Impact in the Greater ABC Region, Brazil
Authors: Santana José Carlos Curvelo , Miranda Amanda Carvalho , Hygino Beatriz S. , Souza Luane S. , Tambourgi Elias Basile , Gamarra Félix Martin Carbajal , Berssaneti Fernando Tobal , Ho Linda Lee
Published: January 2025

This work shows a proposal for reducing emissions, fuel costs, and respiratory disease hospitalizations using environmental cost accounting principles for the production of biodiesel production from waste frying oil (WFO). PM10, PM2.5, and O3 data from 2017 to 2022 were collected and correlated with the number of hospitalizations for respiratory diseases and their costs. WFO samples were collected locally from households and restaurants in the greater ABC region, Brazil, and biodiesel was produced using the samples. The results showed that throughout the studied period, one or more of the polluting gases showed a strong correlation with hospitalizations due to respiratory diseases, corroborating what has already been verified by other studies carried out by the WHO. WFO biodiesel was within the standard limits, and the total annual production was estimated to be 30,435 m3; moreover, the associated annual carbon credits would equal 67 tCO2, as well as a decrease of 30% in total pollutant emissions. Environmental cost accounting revealed that the annual number of respiratory disease hospitalizations could decrease by 3093 and the associated healthcare cost would decrease by USD 838 thousand per year; moreover, the sale of biodiesel and byproducts can generate an annual profit of USD 19 million. The biodiesel plant project had an NPV of USD 172.5 million, a payback of 1 month, and a return on investment of more than 170 times the initial financing. In addition, the reputation and the quality of life of the greater ABC region’s residents could improve.
Effect of Polymer Network Architecture on Adsorption Kinetics at Liquid–Liquid Interfaces: A Comparison Between Poly(NIPAM-co-AA) Copolymer Microgels and Interpenetrating Network Microgels
Authors: Komarova Galina A. , Kozhunova Elena Yu. , Gumerov Rustam A. , Potemkin Igor I. , Nasimova Irina R.
Published: January 2025

Understanding the adsorption features of polymer microgels with different chemical compositions and structures is crucial in studying the mechanisms of respective emulsion stabilization. Specifically, the use of stimuli-responsive particles can introduce new properties and broaden the application range of such complex systems. Recently, we demonstrated that emulsions stabilized by microgels composed of interpenetrating networks (IPNs) of poly-N-isopropylacrylamide (PNIPAM) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) exhibit higher colloidal stability upon heating compared to PNIPAM homopolymer and other relevant PNIPAM-based copolymer counterparts. In the present work, using pendant drop tensiometry, we studied the evolution of water–tetradecane interfacial tension during the adsorption of PNIPAM-PAA IPN particles, comparing them with single-network P-(NIPAM-co-AA) and PNIPAM microgels. The results showed that, despite having the same chemical composition, copolymer particles exhibit completely different adsorption behavior in comparison to other microgel architectures. The observed disparity can be attributed to the nonuniform distribution of charged acrylic acid groups within the P-(NIPAM-co-AA) network obtained through precipitation polymerization. Oppositely, the presence of IPN architecture provides a uniform distribution of different monomers inside respective microgels. Additionally, hydrogen bonding between PNIPAM and PAA subchains appears to reduce the electrostatic energy barrier, enhancing the ability of IPN particles to successfully cover the liquid interface. Overall, our findings confirm the efficiency of using PNIPAM-PAA IPN microgels for the preparation of oil-in-water emulsions and their stability, even when the temperature rises above the lower critical solution temperature of PNIPAM.
The Impact of Storage Conditions on DNA Preservation in Human Skeletal Remains: A Comparison of Freshly Excavated Samples and Those Stored for 12 Years in a Museum Depot
Authors: Jeromelj Tonja , Leskovar Tamara , Zupanič Pajnič Irena
Published: January 2025

Background: As the field of ancient DNA research continues to evolve and produce significant discoveries, it is important to address the crucial limitations it still faces. Under conducive conditions, DNA can persist for thousands of years within human skeletal remains, but, as excavation occurs, the environment abruptly changes, often leading to the loss of DNA and valuable genetic information. Proper storage procedures are needed to mediate DNA degradation and maintain sample integrity. This study aimed to investigate the impact of long-term storage under unregulated temperatures and humidity conditions on DNA preservation in human skeletal remains. Methods: To achieve this, archaeological petrous bones were used for DNA recovery. The DNA yield and degree of DNA degradation were compared for samples originating from historically and geographically equivalent archaeological sites, which differed in times of excavation and, consequently, in storage durations and conditions. DNA yield and the degree of DNA degradation were determined using real time PCR. Results: A significant reduction in the DNA yield and a borderline significant increase in the degree of DNA degradation were detected for samples stored at unregulated conditions for approximately 12 years. Conclusions: Our results show the imperative need for adhering to scientific recommendations regarding the optimal temperature and humidity in the long-term storage of human skeletal material.
Evaluating the Safety of Thread-Embedding Acupuncture: Protocol for a Multi-Center, Prospective, Observational Study in Clinical Practice
Authors: Ha Seojung , Seon Changwoo , Hong Jinyeong , Goo Bonhyuk , Kim Eunseok , Lee Suji , Lyou Myung-Sook , Shin Ye Ji , Kim Jung-Hyun , Woo Yeonju , Kwon Bo-In , Suh Jin-woo , Lee Dong Hyuk , Nam Sang-Soo , Kim Joo-Hee
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Medical therapies that apply biodegradable materials, such as polydioxanone, are widely used to treat various disorders. Thread-embedding acupuncture (TEA) is a unique form of acupuncture that exerts long-lasting therapeutic effects by inserting absorbable threads at specific acupuncture points, and is widely used to treat various diseases. However, there is currently a lack of research regarding the safety of TEA. This prospective observational trial aims to evaluate the safety of TEA by collecting and analyzing data related to adverse events in patients receiving TEA in actual practice. Methods: A total of 350 eligible participants who undergo TEA at one of three university-affiliated hospitals and two traditional Korean medicine clinics will be systemically observed for post-treatment adverse reactions. The patients will be monitored at three time points: 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-treatment. Safety evaluations will assess the incidence of adverse events and treatment discontinuation rates during the 3-month post-treatment period. Conclusions: This study will evaluate the safety of TEA and provide information for decision-making in clinical practice as well as basic data for future large-scale research.
Multidimensional Demographic Analyses of COVID-19 Vaccine Inequality in the United States: A Systematic Review
Authors: Karimi Seyed M. , Khan Sirajum Munira , Moghadami Mana , Parh Md Yasin Ali , Shakib Shaminul H. , Zarei Hamid , Poursafargholi Sepideh , Little Bert B.
Published: January 2025

Background: COVID-19 vaccination uptake is associated with demographic characteristics such as age, sex, and ethnicity-race in the United States (U.S.). Prior research predominantly analyzed COVID-19 vaccination uptake unidimensionally, limiting insights into multidimensional demographic inequalities. Multidimensional studies provide a closer insight into vaccination inequality and assist in designing more effective vaccination strategies. Objectives: Review descriptive studies of the COVID-19 vaccination uptake across combinations of at least two of the three key demographic characteristics: age, sex, and ethnicity-race in the U.S. Methods: A systematic review was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and adhering to the PRISMA-ScR principles for reporting. Six impartial reviewers examined all of the papers. The data were obtained using a tailored data extraction template. Results: A total of 2793 records were initially downloaded, 461 of them were dropped for duplication, and 2332 were reviewed. Based on the title and abstract reviews, 2115 records were excluded. After reviewing the full text of the remaining records, 212 more records were excluded. The remaining six records were reviewed to identify and compare their population, study period, data, the studied dose number, methodology, and results. Conclusions: Multidimensional COVID-19 vaccine uptake analyses are rare and mostly focused on the dose-one vaccination. Improving researchers’ access to immunization registry data while preserving data security is a prerequisite for such analyses.
Experiences of Family Members and Patients with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Under the Multi-Level Medical Security System in Shaanxi Province, China: A Mixed Study
Authors: Zhao Yuhan , Ding Shengjie , Lin Chenglong , Han Yubei , Zhao Mingyue
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Spinal muscular atrophy is a rare genetic disease. Nusinersen and Risdiplam, recognized as disease-modifying therapies, were included in the National Reimbursement Drug List in 2022 and 2023, respectively, in China. Policies have been implemented to enhance a multi-level medical security system, particularly for rare diseases. This study explores the self-perceived burden and offers policy suggestions to improve China’s social security for rare diseases. Methods: In our mixed study, we conducted 37 semi-structured online interviews and a quantitative survey with 3 adult SMA patients and 34 family members (primary caregivers) in collaboration with the Meier Advocacy and Support Center. The interviews explored self-perceived burdens in psychology, domestic relations, medical care, rehabilitation, and economy, analyzing mainly through thematic analysis and multiple linear regression. Results: Respondents reported significant psychological burdens mainly stemming from limited treatment access. The instability within these families was linked to inconsistent therapeutic schedules, the lack of development opportunities, and misunderstandings. Choices between institutional and home rehabilitation were influenced by economic conditions and symptom severity. After the inclusion of medications, six patients (16.2%) still had not received pharmacological treatment, and many of those who underwent treatment were dissatisfied with the outcomes. The high costs of rehabilitation, family labor loss, and an incomplete medical security system resulted in significant economic burdens. Respondents called for more effective medications and better patient support. Conclusion: Although the inclusion of medications in National Reimbursement Drug List has improved availability and affordability, families still experienced significant burdens across multiple domains. A broader focus on social security is needed to enhance the comprehensive development of patients with rare diseases.
Deficit Irrigation Response and Climate Resilience of Mediterranean Tomato Landraces
Authors: Tüzel Yüksel , Biyke Hüseyin , Harouna Omar S. , Durdu Tunç , Tepecik Mahmut , Oztekin Gölgen B. , Tunalı Ulaş , Gruda Nazim S.
Published: January 2025

Vegetable production worldwide is heavily influenced by climate change. We aimed to determine the responses of some local tomato landraces from Mediterranean countries pre-selected as drought tolerant according to previous screening tests at an early stage. Three irrigation approaches were applied: Full irrigation (Ir-Full), Deficit 1 (Ir-Def1), and Deficit 2 (Ir-Def2) irrigation. Drought stress was simulated via controlled irrigation deficit, reducing the amount of water applied by 35% and 50% in Ir-Def1 and Ir-Def2, respectively. Plant growth, yield, some fruit physicochemical properties, water consumption, and water use efficiency were measured. The results revealed that water deficit adversely affected total and marketable yields, plant growth, and biomass while enhancing some specific quality parameters. Landrace responses varied across different levels of water deficit. Among the tested tomato landraces, ‘Valldemossa’, ‘Chondrokats’, and ‘TR62367’ exhibited strong yield performance, with up to 4 kg m−2 under water-limited conditions, whereas ‘Cherry-INRAE 1’, ‘Cherry-INRAE 3’, and ‘Cherry-INRAE 4’ excelled in fruit quality attributes, reaching up to 9.3% Brix, 14.07 mg 100 g−1 vitamin C, 7.77 mg GAE 100 g−1 total phenols, and 75.74 µmol TE g−1 antioxidant activity. The amount of water could be reduced by 35% without compromising yield or quality in the most drought-tolerant landraces.
Digital Educational Escape Rooms for Providing Knowledge on Stress Management and Health Promotion for Students—A Rapid Review and Pilot Study
Authors: Albrecht Joanna , Stark-Blomeier Anna Lea , Schütz Pascal , Lenhard Nina , Dockweiler Christoph , Tokgöz Pinar
Published: January 2025

The impact of stress on students’ well-being and academic success is tremendous. This paper addresses the issue of balancing stress with the realm of a digital educational escape room (deER). This article demonstrates how a deER can serve as a means of providing knowledge on stress management and health promotion for university students. The objective was twofold—to explore the state of research regarding deERs in stress management and health promotion for students and to investigate the user experience and acceptance of a deER prototype. The methodology combines a rapid literature review and the conceptual as well as technical development of the deER prototype. Additionally, pilot testing was conducted in alignment with relevant theory. The rapid review included four publications meeting the inclusion criteria. Data for deER prototype testing were collected from students at the University of Siegen (first Bachelor’s and Master’s degree). The pilot study results (n = 4 participants) indicated that deER education on coping strategies, which incorporates mindfulness exercises, increases productivity and is considered helpful for stress management. This suggests that deERs can provide enjoyable and effective support for students in acquiring personal stress management strategies, potentially enhancing health promotion at universities. However, larger, more diverse studies are needed to fully assess their feasibility and integration into university structures.