bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconceptualizing the Family to Improve Inclusion in Childhood Disability Research and Practice
Authors: Phoenix Michelle , Reitzel Meaghan , Martens Rachel , Lebsack Jeanine
Published: September 2021

The World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health recognizes that environmental factors impact well-being and life participation for children with disabilities. A primary environment in which children grow and learn is the family. The importance of family has long been recognized in family-centered practice and family-centered research. Although family-centered services and research have been critically explored, the concept of family has received less critical attention in rehabilitation literature. The family construct is due for an updated conceptualization with careful consideration of the implications for childhood disability rehabilitation practice and research. Interrogating the family construct asks questions such as: who is included as a part of the family? Which family structures are prioritized and valued? What is the potential harm when some families are ignored or underrepresented in childhood disability practice and research? What implications could a modern rethinking of the concept of family have on the future of childhood rehabilitation practice and research? This perspective article raises these critical questions from the authors' perspectives as parents of children with disabilities, child focused rehabilitation professionals, and researchers that focus on service delivery in children's rehabilitation and family engagement in research. A critical reflection is presented, focused on how the construct of family affects children's rehabilitation practice and research, integrating concepts of equity, inclusion and human rights. Practical suggestions for children's rehabilitation service providers and researchers are provided to aid in inclusive practices, critical reflection, and advocacy.
Expression of Interleukin-1ß and Interleukin-8 in Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders and Carcinomas
Authors: Lopez-Labady Jeaneth , Bologna-Molina Ronell , Villarroel-Dorrego Mariana
Published: September 2021

Objective: To evaluate interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) epithelial expressions in potentially malignant disorders of the oral mucosa as malignant predictive markers.

Study design: About 55 tissues embedded in paraffin, comprising 15 oral lichen planus (OLP) lesions, 15 leukoplakias, 15 oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC), and 10 samples of normal oral mucosa were included in the study. IL-1ß and 8 expressions were assessed by immunohistochemistry using antibodies antihuman IL-1ß human (sc-7884, Santa Cruz® H-153) and antihuman IL-8 (ab7747, abcam®). The number of positive cells was compared using Student's t-test. Any p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Nuclear and cytoplasmatic keratinocyte staining were positive for both cytokines in all study groups. However, a statistically significant decrease was observed within all cases compared to normal mucosa, both staining for IL-1β and 8. Moreover, IL-8 showed significant differences between OLP and leukoplakia, and when compared to OSCC.

Conclusions: Oral epithelial expression of IL-1β and 8 seems to decrease when the malignant transformation of the oral mucosa increases.
Delivering Food to Hungry Fish in the San Francisco Estuary
Authors: Twardochleb Laura , Dixit Leela , Bedwell Mallory , Davis Brittany , Frantzich Jared
Published: September 2021

The San Francisco Estuary is home to an important endangered fish called delta smelt. Delta smelt eat small, nutritious animals called zooplankton to survive and grow. In turn, zooplankton grow by eating microscopic plant-like organisms called phytoplankton. In the past, the Estuary was full of plankton and delta smelt. Because people have removed water from the Estuary and invasive species now live there, the Estuary no longer has enough plankton to feed delta smelt, making it difficult for them to survive. Scientists have found a unique place in the Estuary, the Yolo Bypass, that has lots of fish food. The problem is that delta smelt do not live in the Yolo Bypass year-round. Scientists are working to solve this problem by sending river or farm water through the Yolo Bypass, to move fish food downstream to feed the hungry delta smelt and other fish species.
Embedding Child Rights Principles and Practises in Mega Sport Event Planning
Authors: Aina Oluwaseyi , McGillivray David , Carnicelli Sandro , McPherson Gayle
Published: September 2021

Recently, there has been growing concern about the lack of intentionality of mega sport event (MSE) organisers in ensuring that child rights are adequately respected, protected and promoted before, during, and after the events take place. In the context of the summer Olympic Games, reported child rights infringements have been on the rise, both in relation to abuse in sport itself and the negative consequences associated with planning and delivering the Games. In response to reports of child rights infringements, a coalition of actors, including non-governmental and civil society organisations have sought to pressure event owners and organisers to strengthen protections in the planning and delivery of their events. To date, however, child rights commitments have not been fully embedded in policies and principles guiding the planning and delivery of the Olympic Games. In this article, we explore the field of child rights in the context of the Olympic Games, focusing on a case study of the Tokyo 2020 edition. Drawing on documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews with Tokyo 2020 stakeholders and affiliates, detailed appraisal of the planning process was undertaken. Findings show that while the Japanese authorities have signed up to international child rights conventions and embedded some child participation strategies in Games-related activity, there was little evidence that Tokyo 2020 organisers had developed or implemented robust policies, principles or practises to respect, protect and promote child rights in Games planning. This absence, we argue, is because there was no requirement to embed child rights commitments during the bidding or planning phases, as the IOC had yet to enshrine human rights in its host city contract when the Games were first awarded to Tokyo. In conclusion, we argue that it is imperative the IOC embeds child rights principles and protocols in the bidding and planning processes to ensure that the risks to children are foregrounded and acted upon by host cities and their partners, elevating human rights to a position equal to other Games requirements. This study is of international significance as the evidence will aid future host city bidders to ensure children's rights are embedded in MSE policies for each nation.
The Effect of Sleep Quality and Quantity on Athlete's Health and Perceived Training Quality
Authors: Hamlin Michael J. , Deuchrass Richard W. , Olsen Peter D. , Choukri Maria A. , Marshall Helen C. , Lizamore Catherine A. , Leong Claudia , Elliot Catherine A.
Published: September 2021

University athletes are unique because they not only have to cope with the normal psycho-physiological stress of training and playing sport, but they also need to accommodate the stress associated with their academic studies along with considerable stress from their social environment. The ability to manage and adapt to stress ultimately helps improve athletic performance, but when stress becomes too much for the athlete, it can result in maladaptation's including sleep disruption which is associated with performance loss, negative mood changes, and even injury or illness. This research aimed to determine if sleep quantity and quality were associated with maladaptation in university athletes. We examined subjective measures of sleep duration and sleep quality along with measures of mood state, energy levels, academic stress, training quality and quantity, and frequency of illness and injury in 82 young (18–23 years) elite athletes over a 1 year period in 2020. Results indicate sleep duration and quality decreased in the first few weeks of the academic year which coincided with increased training, academic and social stress. Regression analysis indicated increased levels of perceived mood (1.3, 1.1–1.5, Odds Ratio and 95% confidence limits), sleep quality (2.9, 2.5–3.3), energy levels (1.2, 1.0–1.4), training quality (1.3, 1.1–1.5), and improved academic stress (1.1, 1.0–1.3) were associated with ≥8 h sleep. Athletes that slept ≥8 h or had higher sleep quality levels were less likely to suffer injury/illness (0.8, 0.7–0.9, and 0.6, 0.5–0.7 for sleep duration and quality, respectively). In conclusion, university athletes who maintain good sleep habits (sleep duration ≥8 h/night and high sleep quality scores) are less likely to suffer problems associated with elevated stress levels. Educating athletes, coaches, and trainers of the signs and symptoms of excessive stress (including sleep deprivation) may help reduce maladaptation and improve athlete's outcomes.
Restoration of High Frequency Auditory Perception After Robot-Assisted or Manual Cochlear Implantation in Profoundly Deaf Adults Improves Speech Recognition
Authors: Torres Renato , Daoudi Hannah , Lahlou Ghizlene , Sterkers Olivier , Ferrary Evelyne , Mosnier Isabelle , Nguyen Yann
Published: September 2021

Background and Purpose: Robot-assisted cochlear implantation has recently been implemented in clinical practice; however, its effect on hearing outcomes is unknown. The aim of this preliminary study was to evaluate hearing performance 1 year post-implantation whether the electrode array was inserted manually or assisted by a robot.

Methods: Forty-two profoundly deaf adults were implanted either manually (n = 21) or assisted by a robot (RobOtol®, Collin, Bagneux, France) with three different electrode array types. Participants were paired by age, and electrode array type. The scalar position of the electrode array in the cochlea was assessed by 3D reconstruction from the pre- and post-implantation computed tomography. Pure-tone audiometry and speech perception in silence (percentage of disyllabic words at 60 dB) were tested on the implanted ear 1 year post-implantation in free-field conditions. The pure-tone average was calculated at 250–500–750 Hz, 500–1,000–2,000–3,000 Hz, and 3,000–4,000–8,000 Hz for low, mid, and high frequencies, respectively.

Results: One year after cochlear implantation, restoration of the high-frequency thresholds was associated with better speech perception in silence, but not with low or mid frequencies (p < 0.0001; Adjusted R2 = 0.64, polynomial non-linear regression). Although array translocation was similar using either technique, the number of translocated electrodes was lower when the electrode arrays had been inserted with the assistance of the robot compared with manual insertion (p = 0.018; Fisher's exact test).

Conclusion: The restoration of high-frequency thresholds (3,000–4,000–8,000 Hz) by cochlear implantation was associated with good speech perception in silence. The numbers of translocated electrodes were reduced after a robot-assisted insertion.
Impacto de la virtualidad en las prácticas preprofesionales de la carrera Desarrollo Infantil Integral: caso de un Instituto Superior Tecnológico
Authors: Veloz Rodríguez Nazly Micaela , Herrera Navas Cristopher David
Published: September 2021

La emergencia sanitaria provocada por el COVID-19 ha ocasionado que todos los ambientes de formación humana se dirijan hacia la virtualidad, entre ellos, se encuentran las prácticas preprofesionales, que resultan imprescindibles para los estudiantes de Institutos Superiores Tecnológicos. La presente investigación tuvo como propósito determinar el impacto de la virtualidad en la práctica preprofesional desde la perspectiva estudiantil y docente de la carrera Desarrollo Infantil Integral del Instituto Superior Tecnológico Tsa´chila en el año 2020. El enfoque investigativo es cualitativo, con diseño no experimental-transversal, de tipo descriptivo. La población está conformada por 45 estudiantes y dos docentes (coordinadora de carrera y de prácticas preprofesionales). Se utilizó como técnicas para la recolección de datos al grupo focal y a la entrevista, teniendo como instrumentos; cuestionario semiestructurado y entrevista semiestructurada. Los resultados demuestran que el impacto de la virtualidad desde la perspectiva estudiantil fue negativo, ya que mencionan haber tenido dificultades recursivas, problemas de asignación e incapacidad para planificar e impartir clases desde la virtualidad. Por otro lado, los docentes mencionan tener una perspectiva positiva de la práctica preprofesional realizada, ya que la virtualidad permite mayor flexibilidad y beneficios, dando paso a nuevas posibilidades para la práctica pedagógica. Se concluye en que el impacto de la virtualidad en la calidad de la práctica preprofesional fue negativo y se necesita implementar medidas que partan del desarrollo de conciencia de los docentes acerca del problema a través de una comunicación asertiva y responsiva.
Phenolic Components and Health Beneficial Properties of Onions
Authors: Ren Feiyue , Zhou Sumei
Published: September 2021

Onions are a widely cultivated and consumed vegetable, and contain various bioactive components, which possess various health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-obesity, and anti-diabetic properties. As the major bioactive constituents in onions, it is essential to study phenolic compounds and the heath beneficial properties of onion and its by-products. The bioactivity of phenolic components in onions can be affected by many factors, including the genotype, different growing environments and food processing methods. Currently, most reviews have focused on an investigation of the chemical compounds or bioactivity of raw onions, but there is a paucity of studies concerning whether pre-harvest (i.e., genotype and growing environment) and post-harvest (i.e., storage) factors can impact its phenolic compounds. This review provides knowledge and guidance to agricultural production on producing high-quality onions and to the food industry on developing functional foods to reduce some chronic diseases such as diabetes. It also promotes research interest in studying bioactive compounds in fruits and vegetables considering different pre-harvest and post-harvest conditions.
Early and Total Yield Enhancement of the Globe Artichoke Using an Ecofriendly Seaweed Extract-Based Biostimulant and PK Fertilizer
Authors: Elsharkawy Gehan A. , Ibrahim H. A. H. , Salah Alaa H. , Akrami Mohammad , Ali Hayssam M. , Abd-Elkader Doaa Y.
Published: September 2021

This study evaluated the effect of phosphorus and potassium (PK) fertilizer levels and foliar seaweed extract on early and total yield productivity and the growth of globe artichoke plants. Field experiments were conducted over two seasons on loamy–clay soil at the vegetable research farm, of the Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Egypt. Fertilizer levels of 0, 25, 50 and 75 mL L−1, and seaweed extract concentrations of 0, 5 and 10 mg L−1, individually and in combination, were used. Globe artichoke plants treated with PK liquid fertilizer, with and without seaweed extract, showed critical increases in growth (plant height and number of leaves per plant as well as foliage dry weight), yield, and some chemical constituents compared to untreated plants. The PK3 fertilizer level and 10 mL L−1 seaweed extract as a foliar spray showed greater effects than other combinations.
Relation of Procollagen Type III Amino Terminal Propeptide Level to Sepsis Severity in Pediatrics
Authors: Saleh Nagwan Y. , Aboelghar Hesham M. , Salem Sherif S. , Soliman Shimaa E. , Elian Doaa M.
Published: September 2021

Background: Sepsis is still the main etiology of mortality in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). Therefore, we performed this study to evaluate the value of procollagen Type III amino-terminal propeptide (PIIINP) as a biomarker for sepsis severity diagnosis and mortality. Method: A prospective study was carried out on 170 critically ill children admitted into the PICU and 100 controls. The performed clinical examinations included calculation of the pediatric risk of mortality. Serum PIIINP was withdrawn from patients at admission and from the controls. Results: PIIINP level was significantly more increased in sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock than among the controls (p < 0.001). PIIINP was significantly higher in severe sepsis and septic shock (568.3 (32.5–1304.7) and 926.2 (460.6–1370), respectively) versus sepsis (149.5 (29.6–272.9)) (p < 0.001). PIIINP was significantly increased in non-survivors (935.4 (104.6–1370)) compared to survivors (586.5 (29.6–1169)) (p < 0.016). ROC curve analysis exhibited an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.833 for PIIINP, which is predictive for sepsis, while the cut-off point of 103.3 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 82%. The prognosis of the AUC curve for PIIINP to predict mortality was 0.651; the cut-off of 490.4 ng/mL had a sensitivity of 87.5% and specificity of 51.6%. Conclusions: PIIINP levels are increased in sepsis, with significantly higher levels in severe sepsis, septic shock, and non-survivors, thus representing a promising biomarker for pediatric sepsis severity and mortality.
Development of Healthcare Service Design Concepts for NICU Parental Education
Authors: Yu Hanui , Woo Dahae , Kim Hyo Jin , Choi Minyoung , Kim Dong Hee
Published: September 2021

The objective of this study was to develop healthcare service design concepts through an empirical study utilizing design thinking to improve the quality of caregiver education provided in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This study adopted the Double Diamond Process of service design comprising the discover, define, and development stages. We identified 7 issues, organized into 10 healthcare service design concepts associated with NICU education: improving the design of educational material, improving materials for high-risk infant guidance, a practicum kit, a parent proficiency checklist, a systematic parent education manual, predictable guidelines for tests and treatment plans, waiting time that provides comfort, message cards that convey feelings, a reservation system for visits, and a post-discharge information sharing platform. The service concepts’ effectiveness was verified through evaluations by healthcare experts. The results represent customers’ perspectives and experiences regarding parental education. The application of the healthcare service design method could be further developed in future studies. The 10 service concepts derived from this study can be applied and evaluated as specific NICU educational programs.
On the Performance of a UAV-Aided Wireless Network Based on NB-IoT
Authors: Mignardi Silvia , Marini Riccardo , Verdone Roberto , Buratti Chiara
Published: September 2021

In recent years, interest in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) as a means to provide wireless connectivity has substantially increased thanks to their easy, fast and flexible deployment. Among the several possible applications of UAV networks explored by the current literature, they can be efficiently employed to collect Internet-of-Things (IoT) data because the non-stringent latency and small-size traffic type is particularly suited for UAVs’ inherent characteristics. However, the implications coming from the implementation of existing technology in such kinds of nodes are not straightforward. In this article, we consider a Narrow Band IoT (NB-IoT) network served by a UAV base station. Because of the many configurations possible within the NB-IoT standard, such as the access structure and numerology, we thoroughly review the technical aspects that have to be implemented and may be affected by the proposed UAV-aided IoT network. For proper remarks, we investigate the network performance jointly in terms of the number of successful transmissions, access rate, latency, throughput and energy consumption. Then, we compare the obtained results on different and known trajectories in the research community and study the impact of varying UAV parameters such as speed and height. Moreover, the numerical assessment allows us to extend the discussion to the potential implications of this model in different scenarios. Thus, this article summarizes all the main aspects that must be considered in planning NB-IoT networks with UAVs.
Modified Dragonfly Optimisation for Distributed Energy Mix in Distribution Networks
Authors: Singh Pushpendra , Meena Nand Kishor , Yang Jin , Bishnoi Shree Krishna , Vega-Fuentes Eduardo , Lou Chengwei
Published: September 2021

This article presents a two-stage optimization model aiming to determine optimal energy mix in distribution networks, i.e., battery energy storage, fuel cell, and wind turbines. It aims to alleviate the impact of high renewable penetration on the systems. To solve the proposed complex optimization model, a standard variant of the dragonfly algorithm (DA) has been improved and then applied to find the optimal mix of distributed energy resources. The suggested improvements are validated before their application. A heuristic approach has also been introduced to solve the second stage problem that determines the optimal power dispatch of battery energy storage as per the size suggested by the first stage. The proposed framework was implemented on a benchmark 33-bus and a practical Indian 108-bus distribution network over different test cases. The proposed model for energy mix and modified DA technique has significantly enhanced the operational performance of the network in terms of average annual energy loss reduction, node voltage profiles, and demand fluctuation caused by renewables.
Comparison of Flame Propagation Statistics Based on Direct Numerical Simulation of Simple and Detailed Chemistry. Part 2: Influence of Choice of Reaction Progress Variable
Authors: Keil Felix B. , Amzehnhoff Marvin , Ahmed Umair , Chakraborty Nilanjan , Klein Markus
Published: September 2021

Flame propagation statistics for turbulent, statistically planar premixed flames obtained from 3D Direct Numerical Simulations using both simple and detailed chemistry have been evaluated and compared to each other. To achieve this, a new database has been established encompassing five different conditions on the turbulent combustion regime diagram, using nearly identical numerical methods and the same initial and boundary conditions. The discussion includes interdependencies of displacement speed and its individual components as well as surface density function (i.e., magnitude of the reaction progress variable) with tangential strain rate and curvature. For the analysis of detailed chemistry Direct Numerical Simulation data, three different definitions of reaction progress variable, based on CH4,H2O and O2 mass fractions will be used. While the displacement speed statistics remain qualitatively and to a large extent quantitatively similar for simple chemistry and detailed chemistry, there are pronounced differences for its individual contributions which to a large extent depend on the definition of reaction progress variable as well as on the chosen isosurface level. It is concluded that, while detailed chemistry simulations provide more detailed information about the flame structure, the choice of the reaction progress variable definition and the choice of the resulting isosurface give rise to considerable uncertainty in the interpretation of displacement speed statistics, sometimes even showing opposing trends. Simple chemistry simulations are shown to provide (a) the global flame propagation statistics which are qualitatively similar to the corresponding results from detailed chemistry simulations, (b) remove the uncertainties with respect to the choice of reaction progress variable, and (c) are more straightforward to compare with theoretical analysis or model assumptions that are mostly based on simple chemistry assumptions.
Model-Based Energy Path Analysis of Tip-In Event in a 2WD Vehicle with Range-Extender Electric Powertrain Architecture
Authors: Raja Ahsan Shah Raja Mazuir , Jones Richard Peter , Cheng Caizhen , Picarelli Alessandro , Abd Aziz Abd Rashid , Al Qubeissi Mansour
Published: September 2021

Vehicle driveability is one of the important attributes in range-extender electric vehicles due to the electric motor torque characteristics at low-speed events. Physical vehicle prototypes are typically used to validate and rectify vehicle driveability attributes. However, this can be expensive and require several design iterations. In this paper, a model-based energy method to assess vehicle driveability is presented based on high-fidelity 49 degree-of-freedom powertrain and vehicle systems. Multibody dynamic components were built according to their true centre of gravity relative to the vehicle datum to provide an accurate system interaction. The work covered a frequency of less than 20 Hz. The results consist of the components’ frequency domination, which was structured and examined to identify the low-frequency resonances sensitivity based on different operating parameters such as road surface coefficients. An energy path method was also implemented on the dominant component by decoupling its compliances to study the effect on the vehicle driveability and low-frequency resonances. The outcomes of the research provided a good understanding of the interaction across the sub-systems levels. The powertrain rubber mounts were the dominant component that controlled the low-frequency resonances (<15.33 Hz) and can change the vehicle driveability quality.
Uncertainty of the Electricity Emission Factor Incorporating the Uncertainty of the Fuel Emission Factors
Authors: LEE Kun Mo , LEE Min Hyeok
Published: September 2021

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission from electricity generation has been recognized as one of the most significant contributors to global warming. The GHG emission factor of electricity (hereafter, electricity emission factor) can be expressed as a function of three different (average, minimum, and maximum) fuel emission factors, monthly fuel consumption, and monthly net power generation. Choosing the average fuel emission factor over the minimum and maximum fuel emission factors is the cause of uncertainty in the electricity emission factor, and thus GHG emissions of the power generation. The uncertainties of GHG emissions are higher than those of the electricity emission factor, indicating that the uncertainty of GHG emission propagates in the GHG emission computation model. The bootstrapped data were generated by applying the bootstrap method to the original data set which consists of a 60-monthly average, and minimum and maximum electricity emission factors. The bootstrapped data were used for computing the mean, confidence interval (CI), and percentage uncertainty (U) of the electricity emission factor. The CI, mean, and U were [0.431, 0.443] kg CO2-eq/kWh, 0.437 kg CO2-eq/kwh, and 2.56%, respectively.
Dependence of Conjugate Heat Transfer in Ribbed Channel on Thermal Conductivity of Channel Wall: An LES Study
Authors: Ahn Joon , Song Jeong Chul , Lee Joon Sik
Published: September 2021

A series of large eddy simulations was conducted to analyze conjugate heat transfer characteristics in a ribbed channel. The cross section of the rib is square and the blockage ratio is 0.1. The pitch between the ribs is 10 times the rib height. The Reynolds number of the channel is 30,000. In the simulations, the effect of the thermal resistance of the solid wall of the channel on convective heat transfer was observed in the turbulent flow regime. The numerical method used was based on the immersed boundary method and the concept of effective conductivity is introduced. When the conductivity ratio between the solid wall and the fluid (K*) exceeded 100, the heat transfer characteristics resembled those for an isothermal wall, and the cold core fluid impinging and flow recirculation mainly influenced the convective heat transfer. For K* ≤ 10, the effect of the cold core fluid impinging became weak and the vortices at the rib corners strongly influenced the convective heat transfer; the heat transfer characteristics were therefore considerably different from those for an isothermal wall. At K* = 100, temperature fluctuations at the upstream edge of the rib reached 2%, and at K* = 1, temperature fluctuations in the solid region were similar to those in the fluid region. The rib promoted heat transfer up to K* = 100, but not for K* ≤ 10. The Biot number based on the channel wall thickness appears to adequately explain the variation of the heat transfer characteristics with K*.
Advanced Control Design and Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Simani Silvio , Zattoni Elena
Published: September 2021

This document provides the motivations and a brief introduction to the Special Issue entitled “Advanced Control Design and Fault Diagnosis”, which aims at presenting several solutions to the advanced control design and fault diagnosis systems. These methodologies can be considered in the general framework of advanced control, fault diagnosis and fault tolerant control systems, which are also able to improve the safety of the system under monitoring. The focuses of the current research in this field addressed in this Special Issue are also presented with emphasis on the practical application to simulated and realistic examples, which should provide an overall picture of current and future developments in this area. The works of this Special Issue represent suitably extended contributions selected by the proponents from the ACD2019—the 15th European Workshop on Advanced Control and Diagnosis, which was organised in Bologna, Italy on 21st–22nd November.
Study of Energy Consumption of a Bucket Conveyor in a Jig Concentrator Plant in a Hard Coal Mine
Authors: Jendrysik Sebastian , Bartoszek Sławomir , Bałaga Dominik , Kost Gabriel , Sękala Agnieszka
Published: September 2021

The subject of the discussion is oriented toward limiting the energy consumption of the bucket conveyor used in jig concentrator plants by controlling its speed. A method of predictive control of the bucket conveyor speed is presented. It allows for reducing the energy consumption due to appropriate selection of bucket movement speed to ensure the nominal filling of buckets along the entire length of the conveyor. This approach enables limiting the idling speed of the conveyor, extend its life, and also reduce the electricity consumption of the entire system. Experimental studies, carried out at the “Sośnica” Coal Mine working facility, confirmed that the use of a predictive algorithm for controlling the bucket conveyor speed and adapting the bucket speed to the current load decreased in energy consumption n by 9.6%, with 80% of the filling conveyor.
Development and Evaluation of Velocity Predictive Optimal Energy Management Strategies in Intelligent and Connected Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Rabinowitz Aaron , Araghi Farhang Motallebi , Gaikwad Tushar , Asher Zachary D. , Bradley Thomas H.
Published: September 2021

In this study, a thorough and definitive evaluation of Predictive Optimal Energy Management Strategy (POEMS) applications in connected vehicles using 10 to 20 s predicted velocity is conducted for a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). The presented methodology includes synchronous datasets gathered in Fort Collins, Colorado using a test vehicle equipped with sensors to measure ego vehicle position and motion and that of surrounding objects as well as receive Infrastructure to Vehicle (I2V) information. These datasets are utilized to compare the effect of different signal categories on prediction fidelity for different prediction horizons within a POEMS framework. Multiple artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms use the collected data to output future vehicle velocity prediction models. The effects of different combinations of signals and different models on prediction fidelity in various prediction windows are explored. All of these combinations are ultimately addressed where the rubber meets the road: fuel economy (FE) enabled from POEMS. FE optimization is performed using Model Predictive Control (MPC) with a Dynamic Programming (DP) optimizer. FE improvements from MPC control at various prediction time horizons are compared to that of full-cycle DP. All FE results are determined using high-fidelity simulations of an Autonomie 2010 Toyota Prius model. The full-cycle DP POEMS provides the theoretical upper limit on fuel economy (FE) improvement achievable with POEMS but is not currently practical for real-world implementation. Perfect prediction MPC (PP-MPC) represents the upper limit of FE improvement practically achievable with POEMS. Real-Prediction MPC (RP-MPC) can provide nearly equivalent FE improvement when used with high-fidelity predictions. Constant-Velocity MPC (CV-MPC) uses a constant speed prediction and serves as a “null” POEMS. Results showed that RP-MPC, enabled by high-fidelity ego future speed prediction, led to significant FE improvement over baseline nearly matching that of PP-MPC.
Air Pollutant Emission Abatement of the Fossil-Fuel Power Plants by Multiple Control Strategies in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Jiun-Horng , Chen Shih-Hsien , Chen Shen-Fong , Chiang Hung-Lung
Published: September 2021

This study is an investigation of air pollutant emission abatement in the electricity generation sector from fossil-fuel power plants in Taiwan in 2014 and 2018. PM concentrations are determined by the results of regular tests, while SOx and NOx are determined by continuous emission monitoring systems (CEMS) of flue gas from power plants. The results indicate that electricity generation from fossil-fuel power plants increased by 13.8% from 2014 to 2018. However, emissions of air pollutants from fossil-fuel power plants declined during this period. The results indicate that the annual emissions of SOx, NOx, and PM were 40,826, 59,196, and 5363 tons per year (TPY), respectively, in 2014. The emissions decreased to 30,097 TPY (28% reduction) for SOx, 48,530 TPY (18% reduction) for NOx, and 4496 TPY (16% reduction) for PM in 2018. The ensemble mean values of each air pollutant emission factor also decreased significantly. SOx emissions decreased from 0.2443 to 0.1583 mg/kWh (35% reduction). NOx emissions decreased from 0.3542 to 0.2552 g/kWh (28% reduction). PM emissions decreased from 0.0321 to 0.0236 mg/kWh (26.5% reduction). The results indicated that phasing out of high-pollutant generating units and switching the fuel from coal to natural gas could abate the emissions of SOx and PM, and NOx emissions could be abated by introducing control devices. In addition, new power generation sectors will be constructed and equipped with ultra-low emission control systems to reduce air pollution and create a cleaner and healthier electricity generation system in Taiwan.
Recurrence and Driving Factors of Visceral Leishmaniasis in Central China
Authors: Zhao Yingze , Jiang Dong , Ding Fangyu , Hao Mengmeng , Wang Qian , Chen Shuai , Xie Xiaolan , Zheng Canjun , Ma Tian
Published: September 2021

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an important vector-borne zoonosis caused by Leishmania spp. that has been spreading in China. It has been posing a significant risk to public health in central China due to its recurrence in recent decades. Yet, the spatiotemporal patterns and the driving factors of VL in central China remain unclear at present. The purpose of this study was to analyse spatiotemporal distribution, explore driving factors, and provide novel insight into prevention and control countermeasures of the VL spreading in central China. Based on data of human VL cases from 2006 to 2019 obtained from the Chinese Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we depicted the map showing the spatiotemporal distribution of VL in central China. We further explored the driving factors contributing to the spread of VL through the general additive model (GAM) by combining maps of environmental, meteorological, and socioeconomic correlates. Most VL cases were reported in Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces, the number of which has been increasing every year in the last 14 years, from 3 new cases in 2006 to 101 new cases in 2019. The results of GAM revealed that environmental (i.e., changes in grasslands/forests), meteorological (i.e., temperature and relative humidity), and socioeconomic (i.e., population density) factors are significantly associated with the prevalence of VL in central China. Our results provide a better understanding regarding the current situation and the driving factors of VL in central China, assisting in developing the disease prevention and control strategies implemented by public health authorities.
Psychophysiological Reactivity, Postures and Movements among Academic Staff: A Comparison between Teleworking Days and Office Days
Authors: Widar Linda , Wiitavaara Birgitta , Boman Eva , Heiden Marina
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to determine if psychophysiological activity, postures and movements differ during telework (i.e., work performed at home) and work performed at the conventional office. We performed twenty-four-hour pulse recordings and accelerometry measurements on 23 academic teaching and research staff during five consecutive workdays, with at least one day of telework. Additionally, we conducted salivary sampling during one day of telework, and one day of office work. Heart rate and heart rate variability indices, postural exposure and cortisol concentration were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance with Workplace and Time (i.e., before, during and after workhours) as within-subject effects. We found a significant interaction effect of Workplace and Time in heart rate variability indices and in the number of transitions between seated and standing postures. This shows more parasympathetic activity among academic teleworkers during telework than office work, which may indicate more relaxation during telework. They had an overall sedentary behavior at both workplaces but switched between sitting and standing more often during telework, which may be beneficial for their health.
Association between Financial Hardship and Symptom Burden in Patients Receiving Maintenance Dialysis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ng Marques Shek Nam , Chan Dorothy Ngo Sheung , Cheng Qinqin , Miaskowski Christine , So Winnie Kwok Wei
Published: September 2021

Background: Many patients on maintenance dialysis experience financial hardship. Existing studies are mainly cost analyses that quantify financial hardship in monetary terms, but an evaluation of its impact is also warranted. This review aims to explore the definition of financial hardship and its relationship with symptom burden among patients on dialysis. Methods: A literature search was conducted in November 2020, using six electronic databases. Studies published in English that examined the associations between financial hardship and symptom burden were selected. Two reviewers independently extracted data and appraised the studies by using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists. Results: Fifty cross-sectional and seven longitudinal studies were identified. Studies used income level, employment status, healthcare funding, and financial status to evaluate financial hardship. While relationships between decreased income, unemployment, and overall symptom burden were identified, evidence suggested that several symptoms, including depression, fatigue, pain, and sexual dysfunction, were more likely to be associated with changes in financial status. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that poor financial status may have a negative effect on physical and psychological well-being. However, a clear definition of financial hardship is warranted. Improving this assessment among patients on dialysis may prompt early interventions and minimize the negative impact of financial hardship.
Improving Access to Healthcare in Sierra Leone: The Role of the Newly Developed National Emergency Medical Service
Authors: Caviglia Marta , Dell’Aringa Marcelo , Putoto Giovanni , Buson Riccardo , Pini Sara , Youkee Daniel , Jambai Amara , Vandy Matthew Jusu , Rosi Paolo , Hubloue Ives , Della Corte Francesco , Ragazzoni Luca , Barone-Adesi Francesco
Published: September 2021

We aim to evaluate whether the first National Emergency Medical Service (NEMS) improved access to hospital care for the people of Sierra Leone. We performed an interrupted time-series analysis to assess the effects of NEMS implementation on hospital admissions in 25 facilities. The analysis was also replicated separately for the area of Freetown and the rest of the country. The study population was stratified by the main Free Health Care Initiative (FHCI) categories of pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, and populations excluded from the FHCI. Finally, we calculated direct costs of the service. We report a 43% overall increase in hospital admissions immediately after NEMS inception (RR 1.43; 95% CI 1.2–1.61). Analyses stratified by FHCI categories showed a significant increase among pregnant women (RR 1.54; 95% CI 1.33–1.77) and among individuals excluded from the FHCI (RR 2.95; 95% CI 2.47–3.53). The observed effect was mainly due to the impact of NEMS on the rural districts. The estimated recurrent cost per ambulance ride and NEMS yearly cost per inhabitant were 124 and 0.45 USD, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first nationwide study documenting the increase in access to healthcare services following the implementation of an ambulance-based medical service in a low-income country. Based on our results, NEMS was able to overcome the existing barriers of geographical accessibility and transport availability, especially in the rural areas of Sierra Leone.
Wetland Restoration Planning Approach Based on Interval Fuzzy Linear Programming under Uncertainty
Authors: Zhang Yang , Shen Jing
Published: September 2021

When planning wetland restoration projects, the planting area allocation and the costs of the restoration measures are two major issues faced by decision makers. In this study, a framework based on the interval fuzzy linear programming (IFLP) method is introduced for the first time to plan wetland restoration projects. The proposed framework can not only effectively deal with interval and fuzzy uncertainties that exist in the planning process of wetland restorations but also handle trade-offs between ecological environment benefits and economic cost. This framework was applied to a real-world wetland restoration planning problem in the northeast of China to verify its validity and examine the credibility of the constraints. The optimized results obtained from the framework that we have developed indicate that higher ecological and social benefits can be obtained with optimal restoration costs after using the wetland restoration decision-making framework. The optimal restoration measure allocation schemes obtained by IFLP under different credibility levels can help decision makers generate a range of alternatives, which can also provide decision suggestions to local managers to generate a satisfactory decision-making plan. Furthermore, a comparison was made between the IFLP model and ILP model in this study. The comparison results indicate that the IFLP model provides more information regarding ecological environment and economic trade-offs between the system objective, certainty, and reliability. This framework provides managers with an effective way to plan wetland restoration projects, while transference of the model may help solve similar problems.
Targeted Nanoparticle Photodynamic Diagnosis and Therapy of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Simelane Nokuphila Winifred Nompumelelo , Kruger Cherie Ann , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: September 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an aggressive cancer that remains a challenge to diagnose and treat. Photodynamic diagnosis (PDD) and therapy (PDT) are novel alternative techniques, which can enhance early diagnosis, as well as elicit tumor cell death. This is accomplished through photosensitizer (PS) mediated fluorescence and cytotoxic reactive oxygen species activation upon laser light irradiation excitation at specific low and high range wavelengths, respectively. However, the lack of PS target tumor tissue specificity often hampers these techniques. This study successfully fabricated a bioactive nanoconjugate, ZnPcS4-AuNP-S-PEG5000-NH2-Anti-GCC mAb (BNC), based upon a polyethylene glycol-gold nanoparticle, which was multi-functionalized with a fluorescent PDT metalated zinc phthalocyanine PS, and specific anti-GCC targeting antibodies, to overcome CRC PDD and PDT challenges. The BNC was found to be stable and showed selectively improved subcellular accumulation within targeted CRC for improved PDD and PDT outcomes in comparison to healthy in vitro cultured cells. Additionally, the BNC reported significantly higher late apoptotic PDT-induced CRC cell death rates (34% ***) when compared to PDT PS administration alone (15% *). These results indicated that the improved PDD and PDT outcomes were due to the specific PS accumulation in CRC cells through nanoparticle carriage and bioactive anti-GCC targeting.
Adipose-Derived Extract Suppresses IL-1β-Induced Inflammatory Signaling Pathways in Human Chondrocytes and Ameliorates the Cartilage Destruction of Experimental Osteoarthritis in Rats
Authors: Ohashi Hideki , Nishida Keiichiro , Yoshida Aki , Nasu Yoshihisa , Nakahara Ryuichi , Matsumoto Yoshinori , Takeshita Ayumu , Kaneda Daisuke , Saeki Masanori , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: September 2021

We investigated the effects of adipose-derived extract (AE) on cultured chondrocytes and in vivo cartilage destruction. AE was prepared from human adipose tissues using a nonenzymatic approach. Cultured human chondrocytes were stimulated with interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) with or without different concentrations of AE. The effects of co-treatment with AE on intracellular signaling pathways and their downstream gene and protein expressions were examined using real-time PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining. Rat AE prepared from inguinal adipose tissues was intra-articularly delivered to the knee joints of rats with experimental osteoarthritis (OA), and the effect of AE on cartilage destruction was evaluated histologically. In vitro, co-treatment with IL-1β combined with AE reduced activation of the p38 and ERK mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and nuclear translocation of the p65 subunit of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), and subsequently downregulated the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)-4, IL-6, and IL-8, whereas it markedly upregulated the expression of IL-1 receptor type 2 (IL-1R2) in chondrocytes. Intra-articular injection of homologous AE significantly ameliorated cartilage destruction six weeks postoperatively in the rat OA model. These results suggested that AE may exert a chondroprotective effect, at least in part, through modulation of the IL-1β-induced inflammatory signaling pathway by upregulation of IL-1R2 expression.