bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Fertility Intentions of Women with Childbearing Age in China
Authors: Chen Tinggui , Hou Peixin , Wu Tiantian , Yang Jianjun
Published: September 2022

On 31 May 2021, the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China proposed the policy that a couple can have three children, and rolled out more supportive measures to further optimize the fertility policies. However, while the Chinese government is further optimizing its fertility policy, the sudden outbreak of COVID-19 is raging around the world, which threatens the implementation of China’s fertility optimization policy. Based on this, this paper firstly explores the impact of COVID-19 on women’s fertility intentions. Secondly, based on the Theory of Planned Behavior, this paper constructs a structural equation model to quantitatively reveal the specific factors that affect women’s fertility intentions under the epidemic, as well as their impact paths, and then puts forward corresponding suggestions for the government to solve the problem of fertility, aiming at delaying population aging and optimizing population structure. The research results show that: (1) COVID-19 lowers the fertility intentions of women of childbearing age. (2) During the pandemic, economic pressure emerged as the biggest factor affecting women’s fertility intentions. The decline in income caused by the pandemic has become an important factor in preventing women from having children. (3) The conflict between work and childbearing is still an important factor affecting the fertility intentions of women of childbearing age. The government’s provision of perfect childcare services and their strengthening of the protection of women’s employment rights and interests will greatly reduce women’s anxiety about childbearing.
Predicting Scores on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) from Spontaneous Speech
Authors: Bueno-Cayo Alma M. , del Rio Carmona Minerva , Castell-Enguix Rosa , Iborra-Marmolejo Isabel , Murphy Mike , Irigaray Tatiana Quarti , Cervera José Francisco , Moret-Tatay Carmen
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between language components, such as lexical density, length, and content in terms of “Time, Space and Action”, with MMSE scores. For this reason, a group of 33 older participants, without a diagnosis of dementia, was examined, providing information regarding recent and future events. Participants with higher MMSE scores showed higher lexical density, speech length, as well as number of tokens related to Time, Place and Action in their speech. However, these differences only reach the statistical level for lexical density when participants were divided into two groups (MCI and healthy controls). Word frequency was lower for participants with MCI but this difference was not statistically significant. Lastly, lexical density was positively correlated with MMSE scores and predicted MMSE scores. These results could be of interest at the applied level in the screening of MCI.
A TRIZ-Inspired Conceptual Development of a Roof Tile Transportation and Inspection System
Authors: Ng Poh Kiat , Prasetio Murman Dwi , Liew Kia Wai , Lim Boon Kian , Oktafiani Ayudita , Salma Sheila Amalia , Safrudin Yunita Nugrahaini
Published: September 2022

The Indonesian roof tile manufacturing industry relies heavily on manual operations, specifically in transportation and inspection processes, which creates multiple issues, such as fatigue, injuries, human error, and reduced productivity. Various industries in the Indonesian industrial landscape have begun embracing a problem-solving approach known as the theory of inventive problem-solving (TRIZ) to mine solutions for industrial issues. Nevertheless, its application in the Indonesian roof tile manufacturing industry remains unaddressed. The study aims to solve manual handling issues in the roof tile manufacturing industry using TRIZ. Three observations were outlined from manual roof tile transportation and inspection, followed by the formulation of engineering contradictions (ECs). The ECs were linked with system parameters, which were used as indicators within the contradiction matrix to extract inventive principles as solution models for conceptual development. The concept included an automated system with a conveyor belt (#15: dynamics) for effective transportation, automated image capture (#28: mechanics substitution) for effective inspection, and a flipping conveyor (#25: self-service) to eliminate manual contact. Although the study addressed several issues stemming from manual operations, mechanical analysis, prototyping, and usability testing still require improvements.
Serum FSH as a Useful Marker for the Differential Diagnosis of Ovarian Granulosa Cell Tumors
Authors: Matsuoka Ayumu , Tate Shinichi , Nishikimi Kyoko , Kobayashi Tastuya , Otsuka Satoyo , Shozu Makio
Published: September 2022

Background: We evaluated whether the serum hormone levels are useful in the differential diagnosis of granulosa cell tumors (GCTs), regardless of menopausal status. Methods: Serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone were measured preoperatively in all patients (n = 471) who underwent surgery for ovarian tumors at Chiba University Hospital between 2009 and 2021. These were compared in two groups, a GCT group (n = 13) and a group with other histological types (non-GCT) (n = 458). Results: The GCT group had significantly lower serum LH and FSH (p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively) and significantly higher testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.045, respectively) than the non-GCT group. Multivariate analysis revealed that serum FSH and estradiol were significantly associated with GCT (FSH, odds ratio (OR) = 0.0046, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.0026–0.22, p = 0.004; estradiol, OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.96–0.998, p = 0.046). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis for GCTs showed that the area under the curve of serum FSH was 0.99, with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 98%, when the cutoff level was set at 2.0 IU/L. Conclusions: Preoperative serum FSH level is an extremely useful marker for differentiating GCTs from all ovarian tumors.
Peripheral Nerve Regeneration–Adipose-Tissue-Derived Stem Cells Differentiated by a Three-Step Protocol Promote Neurite Elongation via NGF Secretion
Authors: Klein Silvan , Siegmund Andreas , Eigenberger Andreas , Hartmann Valerie , Langewost Felix , Hammer Nicolas , Anker Alexandra , Klein Konstantin , Morsczeck Christian , Prantl Lukas , Felthaus Oliver
Published: September 2022

The lack of supportive Schwann cells in segmental nerve lesions seems to be one cornerstone for the problem of insufficient nerve regeneration. Lately, adipose-tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) differentiated towards SC (Schwann cell)-like cells seem to fulfill some of the needs for ameliorated nerve recovery. In this study, three differentiation protocols were investigated for their ability to differentiate ASCs from rats into specialized SC phenotypes. The differentiated ASCs (dASCs) were compared for their expressions of neurotrophins (NGF, GDNF, BDNF), myelin markers (MBP, P0), as well as glial-marker proteins (S100, GFAP) by RT-PCR, ELISA, and Western blot. Additionally, the influence of the medium conditioned by dASCs on a neuron-like cell line was evaluated. The dASCs were highly diverse in their expression profiles. One protocol yielded relatively high expression rates of neurotrophins, whereas another protocol induced myelin-marker expression. These results were reproducible when the ASCs were differentiated on surfaces potentially used for nerve guidance conduits. The NGF secretion affected the neurite outgrowth significantly. It remains uncertain what features of these SC-like cells contribute the most to adequate functional recovery during the different phases of nerve recovery. Nevertheless, therapeutic applications should consider these diverse phenotypes as a potential approach for stem-cell-based nerve-injury treatment.
Nanocomposites of Carbon Quantum Dots and Graphene Quantum Dots: Environmental Applications as Sensors
Authors: Kaur Ajaypal , Pandey Komal , Kaur Ramandeep , Vashishat Nisha , Kaur Manpreet
Published: September 2022

Carbon-based quantum dots and their nanocomposites have sparked immense interest for researchers as sensors due to their attractive physico-chemical properties caused by edge effects and quantum confinement. In this review article, we have discussed the synthesis and application of nanocomposites of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and carbon quantum dots (CQDs). Different synthetic strategies for CQDs, GQDs, and their nanocomposites, are categorized as top-down and bottom-up approaches which include laser ablation, arc-discharge, chemical oxidation, ultrasonication, oxidative cleavage, microwave synthesis, thermal decomposition, solvothermal or hydrothermal method, stepwise organic synthesis, carbonization from small molecules or polymers, and impregnation. A comparison of methodologies is presented. The environmental application of nanocomposites of CQDs/GQDs and pristine quantum dots as sensors are presented in detail. Their applications envisage important domains dealing with the sensing of pollutant molecules. Recent advances and future perspective in the use of CQDs, GQDs, and their nanocomposites as sensors are also explored.
Time of Onset and Risk Factors of Renal Involvement in Children with Henoch-Schönlein Purpura: Retrospective Study
Authors: Carucci Nicolina , La Barbera Giulia , Peruzzi Licia , La Mazza Antonella , Silipigni Lorena , Alibrandi Angela , Santoro Domenico , Chimenz Roberto , Conti Giovanni
Published: September 2022

Background: Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a common systemic vasculitis in children, involving the skin, musculoskeletal system, gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. Some studies in children have shown possible risk factors linked with the development and severity of HSP Nephritis (HSPN). The aim of this study was to research predicting factors for the development of HSPN. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 132 pediatric patients with HSP, according to EULAR/PRINTO/PRESS criteria. All patients were screened for HSPN by urinalysis. Finally, we compared demographic, clinical and laboratory data in HSP patients with and without nephritis. Results: The median age at HSP diagnosis [6.2 (2.6–17.5) vs. 5.5 (0.8–15.4) years, p = 0.03] and the incidence of abdominal pain (48 vs. 27%, p = 0.01) were significantly higher in HSPN patients. No differences were evidenced regarding gender, allergic diseases, skin recurrences, gastrointestinal involvement, musculoskeletal involvement, scrotal involvement, and laboratory data (white blood cell count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, platelet count, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and blood concentration of IgA). Conclusions: The age at diagnosis and abdominal pain were independent risk factors for renal involvement in HSP patients. However, due to the retrospective nature of this study, further long-term and prospective studies will be necessary.
Clinical Characteristics and Post-Operative Outcomes in Children with Very Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Saied Nancy , Solis Roberto Noel , Funamura Jamie , Chen Joy , Lammers Cathleen , Nandalike Kiran
Published: September 2022

Available information on clinical characteristics and post-operative outcomes in children with very severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is limited. Our study evaluates the clinical features and polysomnographic (PSG) variables that predict post-operative outcomes in children with an obstructive apneal hypopnea index (AHI) of more than 25 events/hr. In this study from a single tertiary care center, we performed a retrospective chart review of patients with an AHI > 25/hr, who underwent tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) between January 2016 and September 2021. In total, 50 children were included in the study: 26.0% (13/50) of children experienced post-operative respiratory events and four children needed intubation and ventilator support. Compared with children without respiratory events, children requiring post-operative respiratory interventions were younger (4.4 ± 5.2 vs. 8.0 ± 5.2 years; p = 0.04), had higher pre-operative AHI (73.6 ± 27.4 vs. 44.8 ± 24.9; p < 0.01), lower oxygen nadirs (70.0 ± 13.0% vs. 83.0 ± 7.0%; p < 0.01), and had lower body metabolic index Z-scores (−0.51 ± 2.1 vs. 0.66 ± 1.5; p < 0.04). Moderate to severe residual OSA was identified in 70% (24/34) of children with available post-operative PSG; younger children had better PSG outcomes. Our study shows that post-operative respiratory events are frequent in children with very severe OSA, particularly with an AHI > 40/h, younger children (<2 years of age), lower oxygen saturation (SpO2), and poor nutritional status, necessitating close monitoring.
Feasibility of Using Multiplayer Game-Based Dual-Task Training with Augmented Reality and Personal Health Record on Social Skills and Cognitive Function in Children with Autism
Authors: Nekar Daekook M. , Kang HyeYun , Alao Honnang , Yu JaeHo
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this preliminary study was to evaluate the feasibility of multiplayer game contents with dual-task exercises using augmented reality (AR) and a personal health record (PHR) system for social skills and cognitive function in children with autism. The present study used a single group pretest–posttest study design with fourteen children diagnosed with autism and aged 6–16 years. The intervention consisted of various game contents designed specifically with cognitive and motor tasks, performed for 30 min per session, twice a week, for three weeks. Outcome measures were conducted before and after the intervention and included social skills and cognitive function. A satisfactory survey was conducted post-intervention to assess the usability of the performed games. As result, statistically significant improvements were observed in all subscales of the social skills and cognitive function expected in two subscales of each measured outcome. Parents and children appreciated the overall game program, and no risk of injury and dizziness were mentioned. This preliminary study found that multiplayer game-based dual-task training using AR and PHR was feasible and has a promising efficacy for children with autism. However, there is the need to conduct a randomized control study with a large sample size.
Self-Perceived Physical Level and Fitness Performance in Children and Adolescents with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Penagini Francesca , Calcaterra Valeria , Dilillo Dario , Vandoni Matteo , Gianolio Laura , Gatti Alessandro , Rendo Giulia , Giuriato Matteo , Cococcioni Lucia , De Silvestri Annalisa , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo
Published: September 2022

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients show a higher risk of developing metabolic and cardiovascular diseases due to the presence of systemic low-grade chronic inflammation. Exercise can improve cardiovascular fitness and modulate the inflammatory processes. We evaluated the physical activity (PA) level and the fitness performance of children and adolescents with IBD. Patients and methods: We considered 54 pediatric patients with IBD (14.6 ± 2.2; 22 M), including CD (n = 27) UC (n = 24) and IBD unclassified (n = 3), and 70 healthy children. In all children, the Physical Activity Questionnaire (PAQ-C) and the International Fitness Enjoyment Scale were self-reported and recorded. Results: PAQ-C showed significant difference in PA levels in patients with IBD compared to controls (p < 0.001). A decrease in general fitness (p = 0.003), cardiorespiratory fitness (p = 0.002), strength (p = 0.01), speed agility (p = 0.003), and flexibility (p = 0.01) were also detected between patients and controls. Speed agility was related to age (p = 0.02) and BMI z-score (p = 0.01), and flexibility to BMI z-score (p = 0.05). We noted a correlation between PA levels and physician global assessment (p = 0.021) and activity disease severity (p = 0.025). Conclusions: A poorer PA level and poor physical competence were found in patients with IBD compared to healthy children and adolescents. Monitored exercise could provide multiple benefits at both physical and psychological levels.
Ethical Issues in Bereavement Research with Minors: A Scoping Review
Authors: Park Athena E. S. , Krysinska Karolina , Andriessen Karl
Published: September 2022

There are various ethical issues in bereavement research. Most of the literature focuses on ethical issues involving adult participants. However, it is conceivable that research with minors poses particular ethical challenges, and little is known of the ethical issues involved in bereavement research with minors. A scoping review adhering to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines was conducted to address this gap and to contribute to better research practices. Searches in Embase, Emcare, EBM Reviews, Medline, PsycINFO (all accessed via Ovid), CINAHL, Scopus, SSCI, and the journals Death Studies and OMEGA identified 40 relevant peer-reviewed articles, while 25 relevant theses/dissertations were identified through ProQuest Global. The main ethical concerns identified include informed consent, risk to participants, and privacy and confidentiality. Findings of this review may inform bereavement researchers when designing their studies and to ensure the safety of their participants. The findings can also be used in clarifying the decisions made to a research ethics board, thus contributing to the quality of the research in this field. Future reviews may examine how the ethical issues reported in this review are similar or different to those reported in research with minors in other fields and expand to include more experimental research.
Genetic Diversity in Leatherback Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) along the Andaman Sea of Thailand
Authors: Wongfu Chutima , Prasitwiset Wareerat , Poommouang Anocha , Buddhachat Kittisak , Brown Janine L. , Chomdej Siriwadee , Kampuansai Jatupol , Kaewmong Patcharaporn , Kittiwattanawong Kongkiat , Nganvongpanit Korakot
Published: September 2022

The leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) is the largest and one of the most migratory turtle species, inhabiting oceans throughout the world. There has been a steady decline in leatherback populations over the past several decades due to human activities. They are considered endangered in Thailand and global, so conservation strategies are needed to study and protect the species, including determining their genetic diversity. A total of 8 microsatellite loci and 658 bp amplicon of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) were used to assess genetic data from 149 dead leatherback turtle hatchlings among 14 nests in five locations along the Andaman Sea, Thailand, between 2018–2020. The microsatellite findings show that the observed heterozygosity (Ho) ranged from 0.44 ± 0.09 to 0.65 ± 0.10. Population structures were further divided into two genetically distinct groups by Bayesian inference. For the mtDNA control region, our samples consisted of three haplotypes. Globally, there are 27 haplotypes of leatherback turtles, with a relatively low genetic diversity (h = 0.43). These results reveal the genetic status of leatherback turtles in Thailand and globally, and raise concerns about their relative genetic health, which highlight the need for proactive, long-term management and conservation strategies for this endangered species.
Association of Craniofacial Patterns with the Curve of Spee and the Time Required for Orthodontic Levelling
Authors: Krüsi Annina , Dritsas Konstantinos , Kalimeri Eleni , Kloukos Dimitrios , Gkantidis Nikolaos
Published: September 2022

The curve of Spee (CoS) is an important parameter for an individualized treatment plan. The available information regarding a potential association of the depth of the curve of Spee with various skeletal craniofacial characteristics is conflicting and it is also unknown whether certain craniofacial parameters affect the duration of the levelling phase of orthodontic treatment. A prospective sample of 32 patients with mild to moderate crowding that underwent orthodontic treatment with full fixed appliances was used to study these topics. The craniofacial characteristics were captured on pre-treatment lateral cephalometric radiographs and measurements of the CoS were performed on the initial 3D digital dental models using the Viewbox 4 software. Non-parametric statistics and Spearman’s correlations were applied. Weak negative correlations were detected between the CoS depth and the SNA and SNB angles. There was no other association between the CoS and craniofacial parameters, including various anteroposterior measurements. Furthermore, there was no significant association of any craniofacial parameter with the duration of the levelling. Contrary to certain clinical beliefs, it can be argued that the craniofacial characteristics are not associated with the CoS and the time required for its levelling in subjects with moderate pre-treatment CoS depth.
Highly Accurate Visual Method of Mars Terrain Classification for Rovers Based on Novel Image Features
Authors: Lv Fengtian , Li Nan , Liu Chuankai , Gao Haibo , Ding Liang , Deng Zongquan , Liu Guangjun
Published: September 2022

It is important for Mars exploration rovers to achieve autonomous and safe mobility over rough terrain. Terrain classification can help rovers to select a safe terrain to traverse and avoid sinking and/or damaging the vehicle. Mars terrains are often classified using visual methods. However, the accuracy of terrain classification has been less than 90% in read operations. A high-accuracy vision-based method for Mars terrain classification is presented in this paper. By analyzing Mars terrain characteristics, novel image features, including multiscale gray gradient-grade features, multiscale edges strength-grade features, multiscale frequency-domain mean amplitude features, multiscale spectrum symmetry features, and multiscale spectrum amplitude-moment features, are proposed that are specifically targeted for terrain classification. Three classifiers, K-nearest neighbor (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), and random forests (RF), are adopted to classify the terrain using the proposed features. The Mars image dataset MSLNet that was collected by the Mars Science Laboratory (MSL, Curiosity) rover is used to conduct terrain classification experiments. The resolution of Mars images in the dataset is 256 × 256. Experimental results indicate that the RF classifies Mars terrain at the highest level of accuracy of 94.66%.
Undergraduate Engineering and Education Students Reflect on Their Interdisciplinary Teamwork Experiences Following Transition to Virtual Instruction Caused by COVID-19
Authors: Gutierrez Kristie S. , Kidd Jennifer J. , Lee Min Jung , Pazos Pilar , Kaipa Krishnanand , Ringleb Stacie I. , Ayala Orlando
Published: September 2022

This study explores undergraduate engineering and education students’ perspectives on their interdisciplinary teams throughout the rapid transition to online learning and instruction from a face-to-face to a virtual format. In this qualitative study, students’ reflections and focus groups from three interdisciplinary collaborations were analyzed using the lens of Social Cognitive Theory. COVID-19 created a dramatic change in the environment such that the most immediate and direct impact on students’ experiences was on the environmental aspects of Bandura’s triadic reciprocal determinism model, which then triggered behavioral and personal responses to adapt to the new environment. Subsequent evidence of reciprocal effects between environmental, behavioral, and personal factors took place as students continued to adapt. Results suggest that the modifications made to transition the project fully online were meaningful experiences for students’ learning and teaching of engineering through teams. This interdisciplinary partnership provided both pre-service teachers and undergraduate engineering students with the opportunity to learn and practice content and professional skills that will be essential for success in future work environments.
Measuring Distance Learning System Adoption in a Greek University during the Pandemic Using the UTAUT Model, Trust in Government, Perceived University Efficiency and Coronavirus Fear
Authors: Antoniadis Konstantinos , Zafiropoulos Kostas , Mitsiou Dimitra
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has led most universities around the world using e-learning services as an alternative to their curricula. These distance learning tools can help universities expand and enhance their curricula with flexible learning techniques. In order to measure distance learning systems adoption in the University of Macedonia, a Greek university in the city of Thessaloniki, an extended version of the UTAUT model is introduced by using the constructs of Trust in Government regarding the management of the pandemic, Perceived University Efficiency on issues regarding distance learning provision and Corona Fear. To analyze the proposed model, an online survey of 471 university students was conducted. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares. The findings revealed that students’ attitudes toward University Efficiency affect key variables of the proposed model, such as Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, Facilitation Conditions and Use Behavior. Additionally, Trust in Government affects Perceived University Efficiency, and Use Behavior and Corona Fear affects University Efficiency and Trust in the Government in the management of pandemic issues. In contradiction with other research, Corona Fear has no moderating effects. University efficiency, Trust in Government and Corona Fear, because of the effects that they have on key variables, may have important managerial implications when considering the adoption of distance learning systems during the pandemic and in general.
A Lightweight Authentication Scheme for a Network of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) by Using Physical Unclonable Functions
Authors: Alkatheiri Mohammed Saeed , Saleem Sajid , Alqarni Mohammed Ali , Aseeri Ahmad O. , Chauhdary Sajjad Hussain , Zhuang Yu
Published: September 2022

A network of agents constituted of multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is emerging as a promising technology with myriad applications in the military, public, and civil domains. UAVs’ power, memory, and size constraints, ultra-mobile nature, and non-trusted operational environments make them susceptible to various attacks, including physical capturing and cloning attacks. A robust and resilient security protocol should be lightweight and resource-efficient in addition to providing protection against physical and tampering threats. This paper proposes an authentication protocol for a UAV-based multi-agent system robust against various threats and adversaries, including strong resistance against cloning and physical attacks. The proposed protocol is based on a physical unclonable function (PUF), a well-known hardware security primitive that is utilized for low-cost authentication and cryptographic key generation. The analysis of the proposed approach shows that it provides strong protection against various attacks, including tampering and cloning, and exhibits scalability and energy efficiency.
Investigation on Swelling Performance of Oil Sands and Its Impact on Oil Production during SAGD Processes
Authors: Wang Xiuyu , Zhang Chuanying , Sun Guorui
Published: September 2022

SAGD (Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage) is used in Canadian fields where there are interlayers that impede steam chamber development and thus impede production. Many experiments have been conducted on the effect of interlayers on oil recovery. However, the swelling characteristics of interlayers under different conditions, as well as the possible clay mineral transformation and particle migration of clay particles at high temperatures, are rarely studied. In this paper, the swelling characteristics of natural oil sands and artificial clay samples were studied by high temperature hydration swelling experiments to obtain a better comparison. The effects of temperature, pressure and solution type on the swelling rate of oil sand were studied. The uniaxial compressive strength of the core in the presence of clay was studied by the scribe test. In addition, before and after the aging test at 220 °C and 2.5 MPa, the clay mineral composition was studied by the X-ray diffraction method, and the mineral transformation was proved. Finally, the impact of clay swelling on oil production is investigated by simulating the particle migration effect while considering the swelling effect. The results show that the swelling rate of oil sand increases with the increment of temperature and the decrement of pressure. The swelling rate of an artificial clay sample in distilled water is the highest, while a 1% KCl + 1% CaCl2 solution has the best swelling inhibition effect. This study aims to provide new insights into reservoir damage research during SAGD development.
A Hybrid Method for State-of-Charge Estimation for Lithium-Ion Batteries Using a Long Short-Term Memory Network Combined with Attention and a Kalman Filter
Authors: Zhang Xinghao , Huang Yan , Zhang Zhaowei , Lin Huipin , Zeng Yu , Gao Mingyu
Published: September 2022

A battery management system (BMS) is an important link between on-board power battery and electric vehicles. The BMS is used to collect, process, and store important information during the operation of a battery pack in real time. Due to the wide application of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles, the correct estimation of the state of charge (SOC) of lithium-ion batteries (LIBS) is of great importance in the battery management system. The SOC is used to reflect the remaining capacity of the battery, which is directly related to the efficiency of the power output and management of energy. In this paper, a new long short-term memory network with attention mechanism combined with Kalman filter is proposed to estimate the SOC of the Li-ion battery in the BMS. Several different dynamic driving plans are used for training and testing under different temperatures and initial errors, and the results show that the method is highly reliable for estimating the SOC of the Li-ion battery. The average root mean square error (RMSE) reaches 0.01492 for the US06 condition, 0.01205 for the federal urban driving scheme (FUDS) condition, and 0.00806 for the dynamic stress test (DST) condition. It is demonstrated that the proposed method is more reliable and robust, in terms of SOC estimation accuracy, compared with the traditional long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network, LSTM combined with attention mechanism, or LSTM combined with the Kalman filtering method.
The New Model of Energy Cluster Management and Functioning
Authors: Sołtysik Maciej , Mucha-Kuś Karolina , Kamiński Jacek
Published: September 2022

This article was aimed to answer the question of whether local energy communities have a sufficient energy surplus for storage purposes, including hydrogen production. The article presents an innovative approach to current research and a discussion of the concepts of the collective prosumer and virtual prosumer that have been implemented in the legal order and further amended in the law. From this perspective, it was of utmost importance to analyze the model of functioning of an energy cluster consisting of energy consumers, energy producers, and hydrogen storage, whose goal is to maximize the obtained benefits, assuming the coopetitive nature of the relationship. The announced and clear perspective of the planned benefits will provide the cluster members a measurable basis for participation in such an energy community. However, the catalogue of benefits will be conditioned by the fulfillment of several requirements related to both the scale of covering energy demand from own sources and the need to store surplus energy. As part of the article, the results of analyses together with a functional model based on real data of the local energy community are presented.
Harmonization and Validation of Jiles–Atherton Static Hysteresis Models
Authors: Rupnik Urban , Alić Alen , Miljavec Damijan
Published: September 2022

The aim of the proposed paper is to harmonize the Jiles–Atherton (J–A) static hysteresis loop models presented by different authors at different publication dates. The reviewed papers, which explain the hysteresis loop model of magnetic materials originally developed by Jiles are taken into consideration due to their different variable nomenclature and even physical meaning. Inconsistency between Jiles’ referenced works is shown and the consequences are presented as differences between BH curve behaviors and, on the application level, as differences in calculated static hysteresis losses. The harmonization of J–A hysteresis models is presented and confirmed by numerical calculations and measured data.
Effect of Spray Drying Encapsulation on Nettle Leaf Extract Powder Properties, Polyphenols and Their Bioavailability
Authors: Cegledi Ena , Garofulić Ivona Elez , Zorić Zoran , Roje Marin , Dragović-Uzelac Verica
Published: September 2022

Nettle (Urtica dioica L.) is a plant rich in a health-promoting compounds such as polyphenols, which are sensitive and unstable compounds with low bioavailability, that need to be stabilized and protected from external influences. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine how the temperature, type of carrier and sample to carrier ratio influence the physicochemical properties and encapsulation and loading capacity of the nettle leaf extract powder and examine the effect of encapsulation on the antioxidant capacity and bioavailability of polyphenols. The process yield ranged from 64.63–87.23%, moisture content from 1.4–7.29%, solubility from 94.76–98.53% and hygroscopicity from 13.35–32.92 g 100 g−1. The highest encapsulation (98.67%) and loading (20.28%) capacities were achieved at 160 °C, β-CD:GA (3:1) and sample:carrier ratio of 1:3. Extracts encapsulated at selected conditions showed high antioxidant capacity and distinct polyphenolic profile comprised of 40 different compounds among which cinnamic acids were the most abundant. Moreover, the encapsulation increased the bioavailability of nettle leaf polyphenols, with the highest amount released in the intestinal phase. Thus, the obtained encapsulated extract represents a valuable source of polyphenols and may therefore be an excellent material for application in value-added and health-promoting products.
Evaluating the Quality of Cheese Slices Packaged with Na-Alginate Edible Films Supplemented with Functional Lactic Acid Bacteria Cultures after High-Pressure Processing
Authors: Papadopoulou Olga S. , Argyri Anthoula A. , Bikouli Vasiliki C. , Lambrinea Eleni , Chorianopoulos Nikos
Published: September 2022

The aim of the current study was to assess the efficacy of Na-alginate edible films as vehicles for delivering lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with functional properties to sliced cheeses, with or without high-pressure processing (HPP). A three-strain LAB cocktail (Lactococcus lactis Τ4, Leuconostoc mesenteroides Τ25 and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Τ26) was incorporated into Na-alginate solution in a final population of 9 log CFU/mL. The cheese slices (without or with HPP treatment at 500 MPa for 2 min) were packaged in contact with the LAB edible films (LEFs), and subsequently vacuum packed and stored at 4 °C. Cheese slices without the addition of films, with or without HPP treatment, were used as controls. In all cases, microbiological, pH and sensory analyses were performed, while the presence and the relative abundance of each strain during storage was evaluated using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA-PCR (RAPD-PCR). In addition, organic acid determination and peptide analysis were performed using high-performance liquid chromatography. The results showed that in cheeses without HPP treatment, the microbiota consisted mostly of mesophilic LAB and lactococci (>7.0 log CFU/g), while HPP caused a reduction in the indigenous microbiota population of approximately 1–1.5 log CFU/g. In the LEF samples, the populations of mesophilic LAB and lactococci were maintained at levels of >6.35 log CFU/g during storage, regardless of the HPP treatment. Sensory evaluation revealed that the LEF samples without HPP had a slightly more acidic taste compared to the control, whereas the HPP-LEF samples exhibited the best organoleptic characteristics. RAPD-PCR confirmed that the recovered strains were attributed to the three strains that had been entrapped in the films, while the strain distribution during storage was random. Overall, the results of the study are promising since the functional LAB strains were successfully delivered to the products by the edible films until the end of storage.
Challenges and (Un)Certainties for DNAm Age Estimation in Future
Authors: Correia Dias Helena , Cunha Eugénia , Corte Real Francisco , Manco Licínio
Published: September 2022

Age estimation is a paramount issue in criminal, anthropological, and forensic research. Because of this, several areas of research have focused on the establishment of new approaches for age prediction, including bimolecular and anthropological methods. In recent years, DNA methylation (DNAm) has arisen as one of the hottest topics in the field. Many studies have developed age-prediction models (APMs) based on evaluation of DNAm levels of many genes in different tissue types and using different methodological approaches. However, several challenges and confounder factors should be considered before using methylation levels for age estimation in forensic contexts. To provide in-depth knowledge about DNAm age estimation (DNAm age) and to understand why it is not yet a current tool in forensic laboratories, this review encompasses the literature for the most relevant scientific works published from 2015 to 2021 to address the challenges and future directions in the field. More than 60 papers were considered focusing essentially on studies that developed models for age prediction in several sample types.
Energetics of C8B8N8, N12B12, and C24 Macrocycles and Two [4]Catenanes
Authors: Jäntschi Lorentz
Published: September 2022

Polyynes are alternations of single and triple bonds between carbon atoms, while cumulenes are successions of double bonds. Since the triple bond is the strongest bond between two carbon atoms, recent preoccupations included synthesizing and condensing cyclic polyynes and cumulenes and their clusters. Density functional theory calculations predicted stable monocyclic rings formation for a number of C atoms equal to or higher than 16. Alternative to the series of Carbon atoms are alternations of Boron and Nitrogen. Large rings (such as those of 24 atoms) can be crossed and thus small clusters can be formed. Patterns of three crosses seem to further stabilize the atomic ensemble. Clusters of 4C24 and 4B12N12 (96 atoms) as well as 4C26 (104 atoms) have been designed, and their conformation has been studied here.
External Stimuli-Responsive Characteristics of Poly(N,N′-diethylacrylamide) Hydrogels: Effect of Double Network Structure
Authors: Šťastná Julie , Ivaniuzhenkov Vladislav , Hanyková Lenka
Published: September 2022

Swelling experiments and NMR spectroscopy were combined to study effect of various stimuli on the behavior of hydrogels with a single- and double-network (DN) structure composed of poly(N,N′-diethylacrylamide) and polyacrylamide (PAAm). The sensitivity to stimuli in the DN hydrogel was found to be significantly affected by the introduction of the second component and the formation of the double network. The interpenetrating structure in the DN hydrogel causes the units of the component, which is insensitive to the given stimulus in the form of the single network (SN) hydrogel, to be partially formed as globular structures in DN hydrogel. Due to the hydrophilic PAAm groups, temperature- and salt-induced changes in the deswelling of the DN hydrogel are less intensive and gradual compared to those of the SN hydrogel. The swelling ratio of the DN hydrogel shows a significant decrease in the dependence on the acetone content in acetone–water mixtures. A certain portion of the solvent molecules bound in the globular structures was established from the measurements of the 1H NMR spin–spin relaxation times T2 for the studied DN hydrogel. The time-dependent deswelling and reswelling kinetics showed a two-step profile, corresponding to the solvent molecules being released and absorbed during two processes with different characteristic times.
Additive Manufacturing Polyurethane Acrylate via Stereolithography for 3D Structure Polymer Electrolyte Application
Authors: Norjeli Muhammad Faishal , Tamchek Nizam , Osman Zurina , Mohd Noor Ikhwan Syafiq , Kufian Mohd Zieauddin , Ghazali Mohd Ifwat Bin Mohd
Published: September 2022

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D-printing technology, is currently integrated in many fields as it possesses an attractive fabrication process. In this work, we deployed the 3D-print stereolithography (SLA) method to print polyurethane acrylate (PUA)-based gel polymer electrolyte (GPE). The printed PUA GPE was then characterized through several techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The printed GPE exhibited high ionic conductivity of 1.24 × 10−3 S cm−1 at low-lithium-salt content (10 wt.%) in ambient temperature and favorable thermal stability to about 300 °C. The FTIR results show that addition of LiClO4 to the polymer matrix caused a shift in carbonyl, ester and amide functional groups. In addition, FTIR deconvolution peaks of LiClO4 show 10 wt.% has the highest amount of free ions, in line with the highest conductivity achieved. Finally, the PUA GPE was printed into 3D complex structure to show SLA flexibility in designing an electrolyte, which could be a potential application in advanced battery fabrication.
Development of an Evidence-Informed Solution to Emotional Distress in Public Safety Personnel and Healthcare Workers: The Social Support, Tracking Distress, Education, and Discussion CommunitY (STEADY) Program
Authors: Ellis Janet , Korman Melissa B.
Published: September 2022

Public safety personnel (PSP) and healthcare workers (HCWs) are frequently exposed to traumatic events and experience an increased rate of adverse mental health outcomes compared to the public. Some organizations have implemented wellness programming to mitigate this issue. To our knowledge, no programs were developed collaboratively by researchers and knowledge users considering knowledge translation and implementation science frameworks to include all evidence-informed elements of posttraumatic stress prevention. The Social Support, Tracking Distress, Education, and Discussion Community (STEADY) Program was developed to fill this gap. It includes (1) peer partnering; (2) distress tracking; (3) psychoeducation; (4) peer support groups and voluntary psychological debriefing following critical incidents; (5) community-building activities. This paper reports on the narrative literature review that framed the development of the STEADY framework and introduces its key elements. If successful, STEADY has the potential to improve the mental well-being of PSP and HCWs across Canada and internationally.
Effects of Pruning Mulch on Nutrient Concentration of Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) Fruit under Subtropical Conditions
Authors: Aguirre-Arcos Antonio , García-Carmona Minerva , Reyes-Martín Marino Pedro , San-Emeterio Layla M. , Fernández-Ondoño Emilia , Ortiz-Bernad Irene
Published: September 2022

In this study, avocados of the Hass variety cultivated in Almuñécar (Granada, Spain) are analyzed after soil mulching with pruning debris. The mulch treatment assay was composed of pruning wastes from subtropical crops (avocado, cherimoya, and mango) and garden wastes from the surrounding areas. The aim of this work is to analyze the nutrient content in avocado fruit and the effect of pruning-waste mulching on fruit development over four years. Avocado fruits collected in 2013, 2016, and 2017 were weighed, their volume and their sugar content were calculated, and macro- and micronutrients were analyzed in the peel, pulp, and stone (endocarp and seed). The pulp contained the highest concentration of nutrients, especially Cu, Zn, P, Na, and Ca. The peel presented high concentrations of Mn, K, and N, while the stone recorded the lowest values in nutrients, with the greatest decreases in years with the lowest precipitations registered. Over the study period, a decline was detected in the nutrient concentrations related to the alternation of high and low yields, typical of this crop, due to environmental factors. In the years 2016 and 2017, avocados accumulated higher amounts of micronutrients and P, presumably because of greater water availability in the soil. During the study period, the application of pruning wastes did not affect the nutrient concentration of fruits except for the garden pruning waste in certain elements in the pulp during the last study year.
Patients’ and Relatives’ Experiences of Delirium in the Intensive Care Unit—A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lange Sandra , Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska Wioletta , Friganović Adriano , Religa Dorota , Krupa Sabina
Published: September 2022

(1) Introduction: Delirium is a cognitive disorder that affects up to 80% of ICU patients and has many negative consequences. The occurrence of delirium in an ICU patient also negatively affects the relatives caring for these patients. The aim of this study was to explore patients’ and their families’ experiences of delirium during their ICU stay. (2) Method: The study used a qualitative design based on phenomenology as a research method. A semi-structured interview method was used to achieve the aim. The responses of patients and their families were recorded and transcribed, and the data were coded and analyzed. (3) Results: Eight interviews were conducted with past ICU patients who developed delirium during hospitalization and their family members. The mean age of the participants was 71 years. Of the eight patients, 2 (25%) were female and 6 (75%) were male. The relationships of the 8 carers with the patients were wife (in 4 cases), daughter (in 2 cases), and son (in 2 cases). The average length of time a patient stayed in the ICU was 24 days. The following themes were extracted from the interviews: education, feelings before the delirium, pain, thirst, the day after, talking to the family/patient, and return home. (4) Conclusions: Post-delirium patients and their families feel that more emphasis should be placed on information about delirium. Most patients feel embarrassed and ashamed about events during a delirium episode. Patients fear the reaction of their families when delirium occurs. Patients’ families are not concerned about their relatives returning home and believe that the home environment will allow them to forget the delirium events more quickly during hospitalization.