bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dentist Involvement in the Treatment of Radiation-Induced Oral Mucositis—A Pilot Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Vladić Monika Burja , Andabak-Rogulj Ana , Gršić Krešimir , Brailo Vlaho , Brzak Božana Lončar , Škrinjar Ivana , Juras Danica Vidović
Published: May 2024

Objectives: Oral mucositis (OM) occurs in more than 95% of patients irradiated in the head and neck area. This paper aims to determine the occurrence and characteristics of OM in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC), as well as the involvement of dentists/oral medicine specialists in treating such patients. Methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Department of Oral Medicine, University Hospital Center Zagreb, from April to August 2022, on patients irradiated in the head and neck area. A unique OM questionnaire was created on the incidence, characteristics, oral care, and involvement of dentists in the overall care. Results: Thirty patients filled out the questionnaire. Of the 22 patients who had developed OM, 14 had grade-three OM. Ten patients were treated for OM in line with the instructions of an oral medicine specialist, eight based on the instructions of a specialist responsible for monitoring of the underlying disease, and four were not treated at all. Sixteen patients had not been referred to a dentist before the start of RT. Conclusions: These results showed insufficient care and treatment of OM, as well as insufficient involvement of dentists in the oncology team.
MFEFNet: A Multi-Scale Feature Information Extraction and Fusion Network for Multi-Scale Object Detection in UAV Aerial Images
Authors: Zhou Liming , Zhao Shuai , Wan Ziye , Liu Yang , Wang Yadi , Zuo Xianyu
Published: May 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are now widely used in many fields. Due to the randomness of UAV flight height and shooting angle, UAV images usually have the following characteristics: many small objects, large changes in object scale, and complex background. Therefore, object detection in UAV aerial images is a very challenging task. To address the challenges posed by these characteristics, this paper proposes a novel UAV image object detection method based on global feature aggregation and context feature extraction named the multi-scale feature information extraction and fusion network (MFEFNet). Specifically, first of all, to extract the feature information of objects more effectively from complex backgrounds, we propose an efficient spatial information extraction (SIEM) module, which combines residual connection to build long-distance feature dependencies and effectively extracts the most useful feature information by building contextual feature relations around objects. Secondly, to improve the feature fusion efficiency and reduce the burden brought by redundant feature fusion networks, we propose a global aggregation progressive feature fusion network (GAFN). This network adopts a three-level adaptive feature fusion method, which can adaptively fuse multi-scale features according to the importance of different feature layers and reduce unnecessary intermediate redundant features by utilizing the adaptive feature fusion module (AFFM). Furthermore, we use the MPDIoU loss function as the bounding-box regression loss function, which not only enhances model robustness to noise but also simplifies the calculation process and improves the final detection efficiency. Finally, the proposed MFEFNet was tested on VisDrone and UAVDT datasets, and the mAP0.5 value increased by 2.7% and 2.2%, respectively.
Entropy-Aided Meshing-Order Modulation Analysis for Wind Turbine Planetary Gear Weak Fault Detection under Variable Rotational Speed
Authors: Zhi Shaodan , Wu Hengshan , Shen Haikuo , Wang Tianyang , Fu Hongfei
Published: May 2024

As one of the most vital energy conversation systems, the safe operation of wind turbines is very important; however, weak fault and time-varying speed may challenge the conventional monitoring strategies. Thus, an entropy-aided meshing-order modulation method is proposed for detecting the optimal frequency band, which contains the weak fault-related information. Specifically, the variable rotational frequency trend is first identified and extracted based on the time–frequency representation of the raw signal by constructing a novel scaling-basis local reassigning chirplet transform (SLRCT). A new entropy-aided meshing-order modulation (EMOM) indicator is then constructed to locate the most sensitive modulation frequency area according to the extracted fine speed trend with the help of order tracking technique. Finally, the raw vibration signal is bandpass filtered via the corresponding optimal frequency band with the highest EMOM indicator. The order components resulting from the weak fault can be highlighted to accomplish weak fault detection. The effectiveness of the proposed EMOM analysis-based method has been tested using the experimental data of three different gear fault types of different fault levels from a planetary test rig.
Analyzing Fiscal Sustainability in Latin American Countries: A Time–Frequency Perspective
Authors: Marín-Rodríguez Nini Johana , Gonzalez-Ruiz Juan David , Peña Alejandro
Published: May 2024

This study examines fiscal sustainability in Latin American countries from a unique time–frequency perspective, focusing on Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Mexico from 1997 to 2022. Using wavelet coherence analysis, it uncovers dynamic relationships between government revenue and expenditure over different time horizons, revealing varying causality patterns across countries and periods. The findings underscore the importance of balanced fiscal planning and resource allocation to ensure fiscal sustainability and support economic growth. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of Latin America’s economic landscape and provides valuable insights for policymakers, economists, and stakeholders concerned with the region’s economic stability and development.
Comparative Analysis of Knowledge Control and Evaluation Methods in Higher Education
Authors: Davidovitch Nitza , Gerkerova Aleksandra , Kyselyova Olga
Published: May 2024

The article analyses knowledge control and evaluation methods in higher education, focusing on both standardized and non-standardized testing. It explores fundamental quality criteria and the perspectives of lecturers and students on the roles of these methods in assessing knowledge. The study evaluates attitudes towards both testing types, considering factors such as efficiency, usability, reliability, objectivity, accuracy, and content relevance. The findings suggest that combining standardized and non-standardized tests with problem-solving tasks significantly enhances knowledge assessment in technical disciplines, demonstrating the methods’ interdependence and complementarity. Data shows that both testing types achieve high scores, with standardized tests receiving an integral index of 0.72 and non-standardized tests scoring 0.69. Respondents positively evaluate the effectiveness and convenience of standardized tests, attributing their reliability, objectivity, accuracy, and practical orientation. Although there is a clear preference for standardized tests among participants, the benefits of non-standardized tests are also acknowledged. The study thus recommends a balanced approach, incorporating both methods to ensure an effective and high-quality assessment and knowledge control strategy in higher education.
Green-Powered Electric Public Mobility: Integrating Urban and Interurban Routes—A Case Study Analysis
Authors: Franco Alessandro , Lutzemberger Giovanni , Bevilacqua Marco Giorgio , Quilici Francesco Giuseppe , Vezzani Matilde
Published: May 2024

This article proposes a particular strategy to proceed with a progressive electrification of public transport systems in cities. Starting from a bus operation model, the possible electrification of two routes is analyzed, one urban and another extra-urban in the city of Pisa. An estimate is made of the energy uses associated with certain operating modes. The maximum level of consumption is estimated at approximately 280 kWh per day per bus for the urban route and excluding some special days, less than 215 kWh per day for the extra-urban route, for which a hybrid bus is proposed. Starting from an estimate of the daily consumption for the management of the two routes, the sizing of a photovoltaic (PV) plant distributed on some modular shelters which serves to power the same routes, is carried out. The resulting system has a power of the order of 190–200 kW. The modular solution is also outlined, and an installation is proposed. The analyzed case lends itself to being easily replicated.
Model Simplification for Asymmetric Marine Vehicles in Horizontal Motion—Verification of Selected Tracking Control Algorithms
Authors: Herman Przemyslaw
Published: May 2024

This paper addresses a trajectory tracking control algorithm for underactuated marine vehicles moving horizontally in which the current in the North–East–Down frame is constant. This algorithm is a modification of a control scheme based on the input-output feedback linearization method, for which the application condition was that the vehicle was symmetric with respect to the left and right sides. The proposed control scheme can be applied to a fully asymmetric model, and, therefore, the geometric center can be different from the center of mass in both the longitudinal and lateral directions. A velocity transformation to generalized vehicle equations of motion was used to develop a suitable controller. Theoretical considerations were supported by simulation tests performed for a model with 3 degrees of freedom, in which the performance of the proposed algorithm was compared with that of the original algorithm and the selected control scheme based on a combination of backstepping and integral sliding mode control approaches.
Sensitivity of a Process for Heating Thin Metal Film Described by the Dual-Phase Lag Equation with Temperature-Dependent Thermophysical Parameters to Perturbations of Lag Times
Authors: Majchrzak Ewa , Mochnacki Bohdan
Published: May 2024

In the paper, an equation with two delay times (dual-phase lag Equation (DPLE)) in a version that takes into account the dependence of thermophysical parameters (volumetric specific heat and thermal conductivity) on temperature is considered. In particular, an analysis of the sensitivity of transient temperature field in relation to disturbances in delay times (the relaxation and thermalization times) is performed. The sensitivity model concerns the process of heating an ultrathin metal layer with a laser beam. First, the equation with two delay times in the case of temperature-dependent thermophysical parameters is presented. Next, the sensitivity equations with respect to delay times are derived using the direct method. The algorithms for solving the basic and sensitivity tasks are also briefly presented. At the stage of computations, an authorial program based on the implicit scheme of a finite-difference method is developed. In the final part of the paper, examples of numerical solutions (for layers made from gold and nickel) are presented. The research conducted here shows that disturbances in the temperature field are clearly visible and depend, on the one hand, on the thermophysical parameters of the material, and on the other hand, on the intensity of heating with an external heat source.
RETRACTED: Rehman, A.u.; Lal, B. Gas Hydrate-Based CO2 Capture: A Journey from Batch to Continuous. Energies 2022, 15, 8309
Authors: Rehman Adeel ur , Lal Bhajan
Published: May 2024

The Energies editorial office retracts the article entitled “Gas Hydrate-Based CO2 Capture: A Journey from Batch to Continuous” [...]
Effects of an Owl Airfoil on the Aeroacoustics of a Small Wind Turbine
Authors: Sesalim Dean , Naser Jamal
Published: May 2024

Aerodynamic noise emitted by small wind turbines is a concern due to their proximity to urban environments. Broadband airfoil self-noise has been found to be the major source, and several studies have discussed techniques to reduce airfoil leading-edge and trailing-edge noises. Reduction mechanisms inspired by owl wings and their airfoil sections were found to be most effective. However, their effect/s on the tip vortex noise remain underexplored. Therefore, this paper investigates the effects of implementing an owl airfoil design on the tip vortex noise generated by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Phase VI wind turbine to gain an understanding of the relationship, if any, between airfoil design and the tip vortex noise mechanism. Numerical prediction of aeroacoustics is employed using the Ansys Fluent Broadband Noise Sources function for airfoil self-noise radiation. Detailed comparisons and evaluations of the generated acoustic power levels (APLs) for two distinguished inlet velocities were made with no loss in torque. Although the owl airfoil design increased the maximum generated APL by the baseline model from 105 dB to 110 dB at the lower inlet velocity, it significantly reduced the surface area generating the noise, and reduced the maximum APL generated by the baseline model by 4 dB as the inlet velocity increased. The ability of the owl airfoil to mitigate the velocity effects along the span of the blade was found to be its main noise reduction mechanism.
Exploring Corn Cob Gasification as a Low-Carbon Technology in the Corn Flour Industry in Mexico
Authors: Manzini Fabio , Islas-Samperio Jorge M. , Grande-Acosta Genice K.
Published: May 2024

In 2021, Mexico produced approximately 24.2 million tons of white corn, generating 3.6 million tons of corn cob residue. The final disposal of corn cob poses an environmental challenge in certain regions. This study examines the technical–economic feasibility and the greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation potential of integrating a small-scale cogenerating gasifier fueled by corn cob into a nixtamalized corn flour manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprise (SME). This integration enables the generation of heat and electricity from the produced synthesis gas. Moreover, the process yields residual carbon, which can be used as biochar for soil restoration and removing atmospheric CO2. This option holds significance for the corn flour agroindustry in Mexico, as, in 2021, it consumed approximately 601.9 GWh of electrical energy and 938,279 GJ of thermal energy from LP Gas in its manufacturing processes to produce 2.6 million tons of nixtamalized white corn flour. These processes contributed to a total emission of 410,232 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere. The findings of this study demonstrate a cumulative reduction of 51.7% in CO2 emissions, resulting in economic benefits of USD 85,401 in 2017 for a case study SME that annually produces 1039 tons of corn flour. This study reveals the integration of a gasifier–cogenerator system fueled by corn cob as an economically viable low-carbon technology in the corn flour manufacturing industry.
The Application of Crystallization Kinetics in Optimizing Morphology of Active Layer in Non-Fullerene Solar Cells
Authors: Wan Longjing , Wu Wangbo , Jiang Ming , Yin Xipeng , He Zemin , Liu Jiangang
Published: May 2024

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) have attracted widespread attention and became an important member of clean energy. Recently, their power conversion efficiency (PCE) has surpassed 19%. As is well known, the morphology of the active layer in OPVs crucially influences the PCE. In consideration of the intricate interactions between the donor molecules and acceptor molecules, the precise control of the morphology of the active layer is extremely challenging. Hence, it is urgent to develop effective methods to fabricate the hierarchical structure of the active layer. One significant driving force for the morphological evolution of the active layer is crystallization. Therefore, regulating the crystallization kinetics is an effective strategy for morphology control. In this review, we present the kinetic strategies recently developed to highlight their significance and effectiveness in morphology control. By applying these kinetic strategies, the hierarchical structure, including phase separation, domain size, crystallinity, and molecular orientation of the active layer can be optimized in different blend systems, leading to an improved PCE of OPVs. The outcomes set the stage for future advancements in device performance.
Assessment of the Efficiency of a Hybrid Photovoltaic and Photovoltaic Heating System (PV–Solar) in the Context of a Warehouse for a Housing Community in Poland
Authors: Gawlik Andrzej , Nowakowski Marcin , Rabe Marcin , Rajchel Dariusz , Bilan Yuriy , Łopatka Agnieszka , Martinkiene Jurgita , Kozmenko Serhiy
Published: May 2024

In light of global challenges such as the war in Ukraine and the depletion of fossil fuel resources, it is essential to explore sustainable energy solutions. Hybrid energy systems represent a potential solution, offering energy independence to urban housing estates and reducing CO2 emissions. This article aims to explore the feasibility of integrating photovoltaic systems (utilizing vacuum collectors) and combined utilities (system heat and electricity) in a hybrid setup, leveraging existing technical infrastructure with necessary modifications. A key aspect is to perform calculations on the amount of heat and electricity generated from these systems. The study analyzes the demand for heat and electricity among consumers compared to the estimated production from renewable sources. Calculations also include the potential energy savings and CO2 emission reductions achievable through the proposed solutions. The findings indicate that hybrid photovoltaic systems with heat storage could effectively address energy issues in urban housing estates, given adequate support and community involvement. The innovative methodology employed in this study encompasses both analytical and experimental research approaches. The analysis employs advanced statistical techniques and data integration to enhance understanding of the phenomena studied, while the experimental research provides robust results through controlled variable manipulation and precise measurement tools, thereby verifying the study’s objectives.
Correction: Pourdaryaei et al. Recent Development in Electricity Price Forecasting Based on Computational Intelligence Techniques in Deregulated Power Market. Energies 2021, 14, 6104
Authors: Pourdaryaei Alireza , Mohammadi Mohammad , Karimi Mazaher , Mokhlis Hazlie , Illias Hazlee A. , Kaboli Seyed Hamidreza Aghay , Ahmad Shameem
Published: May 2024

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Global Energy Transition and the Efficiency of the Largest Oil and Gas Companies
Authors: Jarboui Sami , Alofaysan Hind
Published: May 2024

The challenges posed by climate change and global warming loom large, necessitating a critical initial step towards the long-term growth and the enhancement of both environmental and operational efficiency. Within the energy sector, renewable energy sources are gaining increasing prominence. Consequently, traditional oil and gas companies (OGC) are undergoing a gradual transformation into comprehensive energy corporations, aligning themselves with energy transition policies. This paper examines two types of efficiency measures—operational and environmental—for the 20 largest OGC during the period of 2010–2019. Secondly, this research aims to explore the effect of the global energy transition on both environmental and operational efficiency. Based on three estimation methods, two estimation steps are used in this research. In the first step, the True Fixed Effect (TFE) model and the Battese and coelli (1995) SFA model are applied to evaluate, measure and compare the environmental and operational efficiency scores. In the second step, the TFE model and GMM approach for the dynamic panel data model are used to explore, evaluate and verify the effect of global energy transition on the environmental and operational efficiency of the largest 20 OGC in the world. The results reveal that the average operational efficiency of major OGC measured using the BC.95 model and TFE model is 66% and 85%, respectively, and the overall average level of environmental efficiency for OGC over a 10-year period is 31% (based to B.C.95 model) and 13% (based to TFE model). Our findings reveal that biofuels, solar and hydropower contribute to promote the operational and environmental efficiency of the largest 20 OGC. However, the analysis suggests that while the global energy transition significantly influences and bolsters environmental efficiency, its effect on operational efficiency among these major OGC remains less pronounced and insufficient.
Influence of Leaf Area Index Inversion and the Light Transmittance Mechanism in the Apple Tree Canopy
Authors: Zhou Linghui , Wang Yaxiong , Chen Chongchong , Tong Siyuan , Kang Feng
Published: May 2024

Light plays a crucial role in the growth of fruit trees, influencing not only nutrient absorption but also fruit appearance. Therefore, understanding fruit tree canopy light transmittance is essential for agricultural and forestry practices. However, traditional measurement methods, such as using a canopy analyzer, are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and susceptible to external influences, lacking convenience and automation. To address this issue, we propose a novel method based on point clouds to estimate light transmittance, with the Leaf Area Index (LAI) serving as the central link. Focusing on apple trees, we utilized handheld LiDAR for three-dimensional scanning of the canopy, acquiring point cloud data. Determining the optimal voxel size at 0.015 m via standardized point cloud mean spacing, we applied the Voxel-based Canopy Profile method (VCP) to estimate LAI. Subsequently, we established a function model between LAI and canopy light transmittance using a deep neural network (DNN), achieving an overall correlation coefficient R2 of 0.94. This model was then employed to estimate canopy light transmittance in dwarfed and densely planted apple trees. This approach not only provides an evaluation standard for pruning effects in apple trees but also represents a critical step towards visualizing and intelligentizing light transmittance.
Prediction of the Potential Distribution of Teinopalpus aureus Mell, 1923 (Lepidoptera, Papilionidae) in China Using Habitat Suitability Models
Authors: Liu Yinghan , Zhang Xuemei , Zong Shixiang
Published: May 2024

The Golden Kaiser-I-Hind (Teinopalpus aureus Mell, 1923) is the only butterfly among Class I national protected animals in China and is known as the national butterfly. In this study, by accurately predicting the suitable habitat in China under current and future climate scenarios, the potential distribution area of T. aureus was defined, providing a theoretical basis for conservation and management. Based on species distribution records, we utilized the Biomod2 platform to combine climate data from the BCC-CSM2-MR climate model, future shared socio-economic pathways, and altitude data. The potential distribution areas of T. aureus in the current (1970–2000s) and future SSP1_2.6 and SSP5_8.5 climate scenarios in China in 2041–2060 (2050s), 2061–2080 (2070s), and 2081–2100 (2090s) were predicted. The AUC and TSS values of the combined model based on five algorithms were greater than those of the single models, and the AUC value of the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.990, indicating that the model had high reliability and accuracy. The screening of environmental variables showed that the habitat area of T. aureus in China was mainly affected by annual precipitation, precipitation in the driest month, the lowest temperature in the coldest month, temperature seasonality, elevation, and other factors. Under the current circumstances, the habitat area of T. aureus was mainly located in southern China, including Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan, Zhejiang, Yunnan, Guizhou, Hunan, Taiwan, and other provinces. The suitable area is approximately 138.95 × 104 km2; among them, the highly suitable area of 34.43 × 104 km2 is a priority area in urgent need of protection. Under both SSP1_2.6 and SSP5_8.5, the population centroid tended to shift southward in the 2050s and 2070s, and began to migrate northeast in the 2090s. Temperature, rainfall, and altitude influenced the distribution of T. aureus. In the two climate scenarios, the habitat area of T. aureus declined to different degrees, and the reduction was most obvious in the SSP5_8.5 scenario; climate was the most likely environmental variable to cause a change in the geographical distribution. Climate change will significantly affect the evolution and potential distribution of T. aureus in China and will increase the risk of extinction. Accordingly, it is necessary to strengthen protection and to implement active and effective measures to reduce the negative impact of climate change on T. aureus.
Contacting of Bicomponent TPU-Fibers with a Conductive Core: A Method for Data Acquisition and Analysis of the Electrical Properties
Authors: Ortega Jeanette , Krooß Felix , Li Yuwei Stefan , Gries Thomas
Published: May 2024

With the megatrend of digitalization, the demand for sensors in previously difficult-to-access scenarios is increasing. Filament-shaped sensors (FSS) are ideal for this demand, especially in applications in which the monitoring of textile structures is the focus. Electrically conductive bicomponent filaments based on thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and doped with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) offer great potential due to their flexible mechanical properties. Through the core-conducting, bicomponent structure, the sensing material is protected from environmental factors such as surrounding conductive materials and external moisture. The insulating material, however, simultaneously complicates the contacting method in order to measure sensing changes in the conductive core. In this work, laser cutting is employed as a technology in order to expose the conductive core of the filaments. The filament is then coated with silver and mechanically crimped, providing both a conductive interface for the data acquisition device as well as a protective layer. Laser parameters (power 20–100 W and speed 5–50 mm/s) are investigated to identify the parameters with the best cutting properties for which the filaments are analyzed visually and electrically. This work provides a robust and reproducible method for contacting core-conducting TPU filaments for strain-sensing applications. This study shows that while the choice of laser parameter influences the morphology of the cut surface, its impact on the resulting linear resistivity is negligible.
Microorganisms and Their Importance in the Food Industry: Safety, Quality and Health Properties
Authors: Silva Celia C. G. , Ribeiro Susana Chaves
Published: May 2024

Microorganisms can play an important role in food production, especially through fermentation processes [...]
Romanian Bee Product Analysis: Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial Activity, and Molecular Docking Insights
Authors: Pătruică Silvia , Adeiza Suleiman Mukhtar , Hulea Anca , Alexa Ersilia , Cocan Ileana , Moraru Dragos , Imbrea Ilinca , Floares Doris , Pet Ioan , Imbrea Florin , Obiștioiu Diana
Published: May 2024

Bee products are considered true wonders of nature, used since ancient times, and studied even today for their various biological activities. In this study, we hypothesise that Romanian bee products from different origins (micro apiary products, lyophilised forms, commercial) exhibit distinct chemical compositions, influencing their biological activities. An LC-MS analysis revealed varied polyphenolic content patterns, with cumaric acid, ferulic acid, rosmarinic acid, and quercitine identified in significant amounts across all samples. Primary anti-inflammatory evaluation phases, including the inhibition of haemolysis values and protein denaturation, unveiled a range of protective effects on red blood cells (RBC) and blood proteins, contingent upon the sample concentration. Antimicrobial activity assessments against 12 ATCC strains and 6 pathogenic isolates demonstrated varying efficacy, with propolis samples showing low efficacy, royal jelly forms displaying moderate effectiveness, and apilarnin forms exhibiting good inhibitory activity, mostly against Gram-positive bacteria. Notably, the lyophilised form emerged as the most promising sample, yielding the best results across the biological activities assessed. Furthermore, molecular docking was employed to elucidate the inhibitory potential of compounds identified from these bee products by targeting putative bacterial and fungal proteins. Results from the docking analysis showed rosmarinic and rutin exhibited strong binding energies and interactions with the putative antimicrobial proteins of bacteria (−9.7 kcal/mol to −7.6 kcal/mol) and fungi (−9.5 kcal/mol to −8.1 kcal/mol). The findings in this study support the use of bee products for antimicrobial purposes in a biologically active and eco-friendly proportion while providing valuable insights into their mechanism of action.
Analysis of Characteristics and Driving Mechanisms of Non-Grain Production of Cropland in Mountainous Areas at the Plot Scale—A Case Study of Lechang City
Authors: Wu Zhaojun , Li Shengfa , Wu Dafang , Song Jun , Lin Tong , Gao Ziya
Published: May 2024

With the continuous advancement of urbanization and industrialization, non-grain production on cropland (NGPCL) is gradually becoming more widespread. This phenomenon will compress the space for grain production and trigger a global food crisis. How to scientifically understand and effectively control NGPCL has become a scientific issue. This study, conducted at the plot scale, establishes a measurement index for NGPCL and further explores the characteristics and driving mechanisms of NGPCL in mountainous areas. The results indicate the following: (1) Compared to plots for food-growing, plots for non-grain production tend to be more dispersed, with terraces showing the most significant dispersion, while plains exhibit the highest degree of aggregation. (2) In terms of irrigation conditions, irrigated land and dry land are more likely to undergo NGPCL. In terms of topography, slope croplands have the highest probability of being used for NGPCL. (3) Regions with steeper slopes, higher elevations, greater differences in altitude from the settlement, farther distances from settlements and roads, yet closer proximity to forests, are more likely to engage in NGPCL. (4) Different plot characteristics have varying impacts on NGPCL. Plot characteristics primarily affect the costs and returns of grain production, driving farmers to change their production patterns and triggering NGPCL.
Doppler Tomography of the Circumstellar Disk of the Be Star κ Draconis
Authors: Gabitova Ilfa A. , Miroshnichenko Anatoly S. , Zharikov Sergey V. , Amantayeva Ainash , Khokhlov Serik A.
Published: May 2024

κ Draconis is a binary system with a classical Be star as the primary component. Its emission-line spectrum consists of hydrogen lines, notably the Hα line with peak intensity ratio (V/R) variations phase-locked with the orbital period P = 61.55 days. Among binaries demonstrating the Be phenomenon, κ Dra stands out as one of a few systems with a discernible mass of its secondary component. Based on more than 200 spectra obtained in 2014–2023, we verified the physical parameters and constructed the mass function. We used part of these data obtained in 2014–2021 to investigate regions in the circumstellar disk of the primary component that emit the Hα line using the Doppler tomography method. The results show that the disk has a non-uniform density distribution with a prominent enhancement at Vy ≈ 99 km s−1 and Vx≈−6 km s−1 that corresponds to a cloud-like source of the double-peaked Hα line profile. We argue that this enhancement’s motion is responsible for the periodic variations in the Hα V/R ratio, which is synchronised in orbital phase with the radial velocity (RV) of absorption lines from the atmosphere of the primary component.
Expression and Characterization of an Efficient Alginate Lyase from Psychromonas sp. SP041 through Metagenomics Analysis of Rotten Kelp
Authors: Wang Ping , Cai Yi , Zhong Hua , Chen Ruiting , Yi Yuetao , Ye Yanrui , Li Lili
Published: May 2024

Alginate is derived from brown algae, which can be cultivated in large quantities. It can be broken down by alginate lyase into alginate oligosaccharides (AOSs), which exhibit a higher added value and better bioactivity than alginate. In this study, metagenomic technology was used to screen for genes that code for high-efficiency alginate lyases. The candidate alginate lyase gene alg169 was detected from Psychromonas sp. SP041, the most abundant species among alginate lyase bacteria on selected rotten kelps. The alginate lyase Alg169 was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3), Ni-IDA-purified, and characterized. The optimum temperature and pH of Alg169 were 25 °C and 7.0, respectively. Metal ions including Mn2+, Co2+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Ni2+, and Ba2+ led to significantly increased enzyme activity. Alg169 exhibited a pronounced dependence on Na+, and upon treatment with Mn2+, its activity surged by 687.57%, resulting in the highest observed enzyme activity of 117,081 U/mg. Bioinformatic analysis predicted that Alg169 would be a double-domain lyase with a molecular weight of 65.58 kDa. It is a bifunctional enzyme with substrate specificity to polyguluronic acid (polyG) and polymannuronic acid (polyM). These results suggest that Alg169 is a promising candidate for the efficient manufacturing of AOSs from brown seaweed.
Designing a Laboratory Cam Profile Measuring Machine to Validate Follower Displacements
Authors: Bednarz Edward , Abad Alex , Patel Jay , Seasock John
Published: May 2024

This study presents the design, build, and evaluation of a laboratory cam profile measuring machine tailored to demonstrate the mechanical principles and applications of various cam shapes. Utilizing a diverse set of cam profiles, the machine effectively converts rotational motion into measurable linear motion, achieving a range of motion profiles, including rising, declining, steady, and instantaneous actions. Key components of the machine include an angle gauge for precise rotational measurements and a linear dial indicator for accurately gauging the cam-induced displacement. This setup facilitates the measuring of displacement, and computation of velocity and acceleration for each cam shape, offering a dynamic visual and numerical aid for engineering and design.
The Efficacy of Early Osteopathic Therapy in Restoring Proper Sucking in Breastfed Infants: Preliminary Findings from a Pilot Study
Authors: Parodi Arianna , Ruffa Rosalba , De Felice Viola , Sartini Marina , Cristina Maria Luisa , Martino Beatrice , Bianco Francesca , Di Stefano Roberta , Mazzella Massimo
Published: May 2024

Despite the care provided, some newborns, who are perfectly healthy, show functional alterations that impair a good breast attack in the first few days. This situation often leads to the early failure of lactation. We conducted a randomized single-blind controlled trial to evaluate whether four weeks of osteopathic treatment can normalize the sucking score in a group of neonates with impaired lactation ability. Forty-two healthy full-term neonates were enrolled in this study. On the basis of the sucking score and the assessment of the infant’s breastfeeding skills, infants who had intrinsic breastfeeding difficulties were selected. The inclusion criteria were healthy infants born > 37 weeks, a suction score ≤ 6, and any breast milk at enrolment. At the end of the study, the sucking score was significantly greater in the osteopathic group than in the untreated group; the median sucking score in the treated group was in the normal range, while it remained lower in the untreated group. At the end of the follow-up, the percentage of exclusively breastfeeding infants in the treatment group increased by +25%. This pilot study demonstrates the efficacy of early osteopathic intervention to relieve breastfeeding difficulties in newborns in the first few weeks of life.
A Multi-Parametric Approach for Characterising Cerebral Haemodynamics in Acute Ischaemic and Haemorrhagic Stroke
Authors: Alshehri Abdulaziz , Panerai Ronney B. , Salinet Angela , Lam Man Yee , Llwyd Osian , Robinson Thompson G. , Minhas Jatinder S.
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose: Early differentiation between acute ischaemic (AIS) and haemorrhagic stroke (ICH), based on cerebral and peripheral hemodynamic parameters, would be advantageous to allow for pre-hospital interventions. In this preliminary study, we explored the potential of multiple parameters, including dynamic cerebral autoregulation, for phenotyping and differentiating each stroke sub-type. Methods: Eighty patients were included with clinical stroke syndromes confirmed by computed tomography within 48 h of symptom onset. Continuous recordings of bilateral cerebral blood velocity (transcranial Doppler ultrasound), end-tidal CO2 (capnography), electrocardiogram (ECG), and arterial blood pressure (ABP, Finometer) were used to derive 67 cerebral and peripheral parameters. Results: A total of 68 patients with AIS (mean age 66.8 ± SD 12.4 years) and 12 patients with ICH (67.8 ± 16.2 years) were included. The median ± SD NIHSS of the cohort was 5 ± 4.6. Statistically significant differences between AIS and ICH were observed for (i) an autoregulation index (ARI) that was higher in the unaffected hemisphere (UH) for ICH compared to AIS (5.9 ± 1.7 vs. 4.9 ± 1.8 p = 0.07); (ii) coherence function for both hemispheres in different frequency bands (AH, p < 0.01; UH p < 0.02); (iii) a baroreceptor sensitivity (BRS) for the low-frequency (LF) bands that was higher for AIS (6.7 ± 4.2 vs. 4.10 ± 2.13 ms/mmHg, p = 0.04) compared to ICH, and that the mean gain of the BRS in the LF range was higher in the AIS than in the ICH (5.8 ± 5.3 vs. 2.7 ± 1.8 ms/mmHg, p = 0.0005); (iv) Systolic and diastolic velocities of the affected hemisphere (AH) that were significantly higher in ICH than in AIS (82.5 ± 28.09 vs. 61.9 ± 18.9 cm/s), systolic velocity (p = 0.002), and diastolic velocity (p = 0.05). Conclusion: Further multivariate modelling might improve the ability of multiple parameters to discriminate between AIS and ICH and warrants future prospective studies of ultra-early classification (<4 h post symptom onset) of stroke sub-types.
A Nursing Process for Shared Decision-Making for Patients with Severe Mental Illness Receiving Treatment Involving Long-Term Coercive Measures: A Modified Grounded Theory Approach
Authors: Nagayama Yutaka
Published: May 2024

The use of shared decision-making (SDM) has recently attracted attention for building recovery-oriented therapeutic relationships with patients with severe mental illness (SMI). The purpose of this study was to describe a nursing process for SDM for psychiatric patients with SMI being treated via long-term coercive measures, such as seclusion and physical restraint, in the “seclusion room” of a psychiatric ward. The study used a modified grounded theory approach. The participants were 17 psychiatric nurses. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews. Concepts and categories were generated from verbatim transcripts, and their relationships were illustrated using a diagram and by generating a storyline. The nursing process for SDM was based on sensing the response to triggering stimuli, and the nurse-led preventive measures compensated for the patients’ lack of coping skills. Because of the patients’ persistent instability in response to certain stimuli, in our process, nurses are involved in creating opportunities for self-understanding and self-selection while also taking proactive preventative measures. Patients’ reactions to surrounding stimuli were evaluated by nurses, who then determined whether they (or the patient) should take the lead in terms of decision-making.
Pedagogical Innovation with Sense? A Seminal Experiment of Service-Learning in Gerontological Social Work
Authors: Vieira da Silva Catarina , Gonçalves Armanda , Petrella Simone , Dias Paulo C.
Published: May 2024

Higher education institutions have been investing in teachers’ professional development and pedagogical innovation, on the one hand, aiming to promote the quality of institutions and, on the other hand, aiming to promote students’ personal and academic development. One of the methodologies that has received particular attention is service-learning, which aims to promote students’ learning by providing a service to vulnerable community groups. In this study, we aim to present the results of the application of this methodology in a fourth-year social work course. To this end, a mixed-methods study was conducted with 10 students in the Contemporary Social Work III course using the service-learning methodology. Students experienced between 15 and 30 h of service-learning, most of them for 7 weeks or more in an elder care institution, with varied activities such as social consulting and home visits. When we tried to understand the students’ perceived impact, we found higher mean scores in the post-test, with statistically significant differences on several dimensions, particularly self-confidence, problem solving, adaptability and flexibility, dealing with diversity and multiculturalism, understanding complex social issues, and a sense of purpose and life. These data are aligned with the qualitative analysis, which identified six themes such as the integration of practice and theory, development of skills, positive impact on academic training, valuing practical experience, reflective and meaningful learning, and support and guidance. The results highlight the value of pedagogical innovation for students’ skills, especially when it is aligned with the identity and mission of the institution and the values of the study program.
The Effectiveness of Clinician-Led Community-Based Group Exercise Interventions on Health Outcomes in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: White Liam , Kirwan Morwenna , Christie Vita , Hurst Lauren , Gwynne Kylie
Published: May 2024

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the combined effects of clinician-led and community-based group exercise interventions on a range of health outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Our literature search spanned Medline, Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL databases, focusing on peer-reviewed studies published between January 2003 and January 2023. We included studies involving participants aged 18 years and older and articles published in English, resulting in a dataset of eight studies with 938 participants. Spanning eight peer-reviewed studies with 938 participants, the analysis focused on the interventions’ impact on glycemic control, physical fitness, and anthropometric and hematological measurements. Outcomes related to physical fitness, assessed through the six-minute walk test, the 30 s sit-to-stand test, and the chair sit-and-reach test, were extracted from five studies, all of which reported improvements. Anthropometric outcomes from seven studies highlighted positive changes in waist circumference and diastolic blood pressure; however, measures such as body mass index, systolic blood pressure, weight, and resting heart rate did not exhibit significant changes. Hematological outcomes, reviewed in four studies, showed significant improvements in fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol, with glycemic control evidenced by reductions in HbA1c levels, yet LDL and HDL cholesterol levels remained unaffected. Ten of the fifteen outcome measures assessed showed significant enhancement, indicating that the intervention strategies implemented may offer substantial health benefits for managing key type 2 diabetes mellitus-related health parameters. These findings in combination with further research, could inform the refinement of physical activity guidelines for individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, advocating for supervised group exercise in community settings.
Spatial and Temporal Analysis of Road Traffic Accidents in Major Californian Cities Using a Geographic Information System
Authors: Alsahfi Tariq
Published: May 2024

Road traffic accidents have increased globally, which has led to significant challenges to urban safety and public health. This concerning trend is also evident in California, where major cities have seen a rise in accidents. This research conducts a spatio-temporal analysis of traffic accidents across the four major Californian cities—Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, and San Jose—over five years. It achieves this through an integration of Geographic Information System (GIS) functionalities (space–time cube analysis) with non-parametric statistical and spatial techniques (DBSCAN, KDE, and the Getis-Ord Gi* method). Our findings from the temporal analysis showed that the most accidents occurred in Los Angeles over five years, while San Diego and San Jose had the least occurrences. The severity maps showed that the majority of accidents in all cities were level 2. Moreover, spatio-temporal dynamics, captured via the space–time cube analysis, visualized significant accident hotspot locations. The clustering of accidents using DBSCAN verified the temporal and hotspot analysis results by showing areas with high accident rates and different clustering patterns. Additionally, integrating KDE with the population density and the Getis-Ord Gi* method explained the relationship between high-density regions and accident occurrences. The utilization of GIS-based analytical techniques in this study shows the complex interplay between accident occurrences, severity, and demographic factors. The insight gained from this study can be further used to implement effective data-driven road safety strategies.
Customizing EV-CATCHER to Purify Placental Extracellular Vesicles from Maternal Plasma to Detect Placental Pathologies
Authors: Mitchell Megan I. , Khalil Marwa , Ben-Dov Iddo Z. , Alverez-Perez Jesus , Illsley Nicholas P. , Zamudio Stacy , Al-Khan Abdulla , Loudig Olivier
Published: May 2024

Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS) is a life-threatening condition in which placental trophoblastic cells abnormally invade the uterus, often up to the uterine serosa and, in extreme cases, tissues beyond the uterine wall. Currently, there is no clinical assay for the non-invasive detection of PAS, and only ultrasound and MRI can be used for its diagnosis. Considering the subjectivity of visual assessment, the detection of PAS necessitates a high degree of expertise and, in some instances, can lead to its misdiagnosis. In clinical practice, up to 50% of pregnancies with PAS remain undiagnosed until delivery, and it is associated with increased risk of morbidity/mortality. Although many studies have evaluated the potential of fetal biomarkers circulating in maternal blood, very few studies have evaluated the potential of circulating placental extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their miRNA contents for molecular detection of PAS. Thus, to purify placental EVs from maternal blood, we customized our robust ultra-sensitive immuno-purification assay, termed EV-CATCHER, with a monoclonal antibody targeting the membrane Placental Alkaline Phosphatase (PLAP) protein, which is unique to the placenta and present on the surface of placental EVs. Then, as a pilot evaluation, we compared the miRNA expression profiles of placental EVs purified from the maternal plasma of women diagnosed with placenta previa (controls, n = 16); placenta lying low in uterus but not invasive) to those of placental EVs purified from the plasma of women with placenta percreta (cases, n = 16), PAS with the highest level of invasiveness. Our analyses reveal that miRNA profiling of PLAP+ EVs purified from maternal plasma identified 40 differentially expressed miRNAs when comparing these two placental pathologies. Preliminary miRNA pathway enrichment and gene ontology analysis of the top 14 upregulated and top nine downregulated miRNAs in PLAP+ EVs, purified from the plasma of women diagnosed with placenta percreta versus those diagnosed with placenta previa, suggests a potential role in control of cellular invasion and motility that will require further investigation.