bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Outdoor Thermal Comfort Using a Mixed-Method to Improve the Environmental Quality of a University Campus
Authors: Eslamirad Nasim , Sepúlveda Abel , De Luca Francesco , Sakari Lylykangas Kimmo
Published: February 2022

Thermal comfort in cities is increasingly becoming a concern and comfortable places can be highly valuable for a variety of activities. Our investigation aims to explore how to improve the quality of cities by considering the relationship between microclimatic conditions, thermal sensation, and human preferences. The case study conducted in the open areas of Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) campus, which is quite populated by visitors, staff, and students. We used a mixed-methods approach to assess outdoor thermal comfort, based on qualitative and quantitative findings of the relationships between the measured weather conditions and the results of thermal comfort assessment through the PET index and subjectively perceived thermal sensation. In the qualitative part, data was collected through semi-structured interviews. The main conclusions from the interviews were used to design a survey and the samples. Based on the results, it was possible to identify places that offer different levels of thermal comfort. Thus, the study helps to improve thermal comfort at the campus, which is one of the goals of the Green Transition project to make the campus fully sustainable. Moreover, the methodology is applicable in different urban areas to improve urban health and sustainability and create resilient urban environments.
Electrochemical Cells and Storage Technologies to Increase Renewable Energy Share in Cold Climate Conditions—A Critical Assessment
Authors: Ahoutou Yao , Ilinca Adrian , Issa Mohamad
Published: February 2022

The energy efficiency of a renewable energy system is inextricably linked to the energy storage technologies used in conjunction with it. The most extensively utilized energy storage technology for all purposes is electrochemical storage batteries, which have grown more popular over time because of their extended life, high working voltage, and low self-discharge rate. However, these batteries cannot withstand the very low temperatures encountered in cold regions, even with these very promising technical characteristics. The cold northern temperatures affect the batteries’ electromotive force and thus decrease their storage capacity. In addition, they affect the conductivity of the electrolyte and the kinetics of electrochemical reactions, thus influencing the capacity and speed of electrons in the electrolyte. In this article, which is intended as a literature review, we first describe the technical characteristics of charge–discharge rate of different electrochemical storage techniques and their variations with temperature. Then, new approaches used to adapt these electrochemical storage techniques to cold climates are presented. We also conduct a comparative study between the different electrochemical storage techniques regarding their performance in the harsh climatic conditions of the Canadian North.
Time-Interval-Varying Optimal Power Dispatch Strategy Based on Net Load Time-Series Characteristics
Authors: Hu Shubo , Gao Zhengnan , Wu Jing , Ge Yangyang , Li Jiajue , Zhang Lianyong , Liu Jinsong , Sun Hui
Published: February 2022

In China, with the increasing permeability of wind power, the power supply capacity is enough overall, but has shortage in partial-time. During peak hours, the capability of wind power consumption is poor and the power balance becomes more difficult. In order to maximize the utilization of wind power, the net loads are chosen as the response objectives, which contain significant uncertainties and have no probabilistic distribution characteristics. Under the traditional day-ahead power dispatch mode with fixed length time intervals and in the regions with insufficient hydroelectricity, the thermal generators take charge of the peak-load shaving. The frequent adjustments of thermal power output affect the system operation safety, economic benefits, and environmental benefits. Thus, a time-interval-varying optimal power dispatch strategy based on net load time-series characteristics is proposed in this paper. The net loads respond differently to intervals. The length of each time interval is determined based on the net load time-series characteristics analyzed by random matrix theory. The dispatch mode in each time interval is determined according to the characteristic quantification index calculated by the empirical modal decomposition and sample entropy. The proposed strategy and method can extend the continuous and stable operation time of the thermal generators, reduce the coal consumption caused by the ramping operation, and improve the safety, stability, and economy of the system. Furthermore, the proposed dispatch mode is environmentally friendly with reduced environmental cost and increased carbon credits. An actual provincial power grid in northeast China is taken as the example to verify the rationality and effectiveness of the proposed method and strategy.
Impacts of COVID-19 on Energy Expenditures of Local Self-Government Units in Poland
Authors: Strojny Jacek Artur , Chwastek Michał Stanisław , Badach Elżbieta , Lisek Sławomir Jacek , Kacorzyk Piotr
Published: February 2022

Measures taken by the public administration to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to drastic consequences for the economy. The full identification of its effects is hindered due to the delay in publishing the results of public statistics. The use of financial reports prepared by self-government authorities of all municipalities in Poland made it possible to obtain preemptive information in relation to the public statistics regarding the impact of COVID-19-related limitations on the energy expenditures incurred by local government units (LGUs), as well as an assessment of to what extent the LGUs had rationalized the energy consumption. By contrast, data from reports of energy companies made it possible to determine the impact of restrictions arising from the pandemic on the amount of energy sold and revenues from sales made by these companies. The analyses use indexes of the dynamics of changes in energy prices as well as indexes of the dynamics of changes in energy expenditures incurred by LGUs. Additionally, distributions of these indexes for the populations of municipalities are analyzed. To assess the effect of economic activity on energy expenditures incurred by LGUs, classification trees are utilized. It is established that the total production and sales of energy in Poland, in volume, in each quarter of 2020 were lower than in the corresponding period of the preceding year. However, as a result of an increase in energy prices by approximately 25%, the sales of electric power generating companies, in amounts, were higher in 2020 than in 2019. The increase in energy prices was also a cause of slightly increased total expenditures for purchasing energy in LGUs in Poland, which increased by 2.15% in 2020 compared to 2019. However, a substantial diversity in expenditure indexes was observed. That concerned both total expenditures and expenditures within individual sections of the budgets of municipalities.
Optimal Discharge Parameters for Biomedical Surface Sterilization in Radiofrequency AR/O2 Plasma
Authors: Elaissi Samira , H. Alkallas Fatemah. , Ben Gouider Trabelsi Amira , Abu El Maati Lamia , Charrada Kamel
Published: February 2022

Plasma parameters of radiofrequency discharge generated at low pressures in an argon-oxygen mixture addressed for biomedical surface sterilization have been optimized. Numerical results illustrate the density distributions of different species and electron temperatures during the electrical discharge process. The current discharge acting in the abnormal range decreases at higher oxygen gas flow rates. The temperature of electrons drops with pressure while it rises by adding oxygen. Nevertheless, electron density displays an adverse trend, exhibited by the electron’s temperature. The average particle density of the reactive species is enhanced in Ar/O2 compared to He/O2, which ensures a better efficiency of Ar/O2 in sterilizing bacteria than He/O2. The impact of oxygen addition on the discharge mixture reveals raised oxygen atom density and a reduction in metastable oxygen atoms. A pronounced production of oxygen atoms is achieved at higher frequency domains. This makes our findings promising for biomedical surface sterilization and leads to optimal parameter discharges used for sterilization being at 30% of oxygen gas ratio and 0.3 Torr pressure.
In Situ Transesterification of Microbial Biomass for Biolubricant Production Catalyzed by Heteropolyacid Supported on Niobium
Authors: Zorn Savienne M. F. E. , da Silva Ana Paula T. , Bredda Eduardo H. , Bento Heitor B. S. , Pedro Guilherme A. , Carvalho Ana Karine F. , Silva Messias Borges , Da Rós Patrícia C. M.
Published: February 2022

Lubricants are substances of the foremost importance in the modern world, as they are essential to the proper functioning of various mechanisms. Most lubricants, however, are still made from petroleum fractions. I light of this, and due to various environmental problems, the search for feasible biolubricants has become essential. This study obtained biolubricants through the in situ transesterification of microbial biomass, containing at least 20 wt% of lipids. The following two distinct biomasses were evaluated: the marine microalgae, Dunaliella salina, and the consortium of microalgae-fungi, Scenedesmus obliquus and Mucor circinelloides. Microbial oil from both biomasses presented a fatty acid profile with high amounts of oleic acid. The oil of D. salina had a lower content of polyunsaturated fatty acids relative to the microbial consortium profile, which indicates that this is a good configuration for increasing biolubricant oxidation resistance. The catalyst used was a Keggin-structure heteropolyacid supported on niobium, H3PMo12O40/Nb2O5, activated at 150 °C, which had high transesterification yields, notwithstanding the feedstocks, which were rich in free fatty acids. The performed transesterification reactions resulted in excellent yields, up to 97.58% and 96.80%, for marine microalgae and the consortium, respectively, after 6 h at 250 °C, with 10 wt% of catalyst (related to the lipid amount). As such, the (H3PMo12O40/Nb2O5) catalyst could become an attractive option for producing biolubricants from microbial biomass.
Two-Stage Robust Economic Dispatch of Regional Integrated Energy System Considering Source-Load Uncertainty Based on Carbon Neutral Vision
Authors: Gao Jianwei , Yang Yu , Gao Fangjie , Wu Haoyu
Published: February 2022

A regional integrated energy system is an important carrier of the energy Internet. It is a major challenge for the operation of a regional integrated energy system to deal with the uncertainty of distributed energy and multiple loads by using the coupling characteristics of equipment in a regional integrated energy system. In this paper, a two-stage robust economic dispatch model of a regional integrated energy system is proposed considering the source-load uncertainty. Firstly, the basic architecture of the regional integrated energy system is introduced. Based on the extreme scenario of uncertain power supply and load, the uncertainty set was established, the two-stage robust optimization model of regional integrated energy system was constructed and the column-and-constraint generation algorithm was used to solve the model. The effectiveness of the two-stage robust optimization model in improving the economy and robustness of the system was analyzed.
Exploring Institutional and Socio-Economic Settings for the Development of Energy Communities in Europe
Authors: Sciullo Alessandro , Gilcrease Gregory Winston , Perugini Mario , Padovan Dario , Curli Barbara , Gregg Jay Sterling , Arrobbio Osman , Meynaerts Erika , Delvaux Sarah , Polo-Alvarez Lucia , Candelise Chiara , van der Waal Esther , van der Windt Henny , Hubert Wit , Ivask Nele , Muiste Marek
Published: February 2022

Energy communities (ECs), intended as collective action initiatives in the energy field involving citizens’ participation, have been gaining relevance for the past decades as an alternative way to organize the energy chain to challenge the incumbent system. With Europe’s recently adopted Clean Energy Package, ECs found a formal recognition by the European Union as potential actors of the transition of the energy system towards a wider and more decentralized use of renewable sources. Although the potential role of ECs in the transition is therefore hardly questionable, a thorough comprehension of the enabling factors that might foster their diffusion and scaling up is still lacking. Through a comparative analysis of the evolutionary trajectories in six EU countries regarding their energy systems, their regulatory frameworks and their historical evolution of ECs, namely through the example of cooperative models, this paper aims at providing some preliminary evidence about the factors and dynamics that seem to have played, and may play, a role in hampering or facilitating EC model diffusion. Attention is therefore specifically paid to three dimensions of analysis referring to: the energy mix and market structure; the institutional and policy landscape; the wider social attitudes towards environmental issues and cooperation among citizens. In addition to providing a wide comparison of different EU countries, the paper shows that the historical evolution pathways have to be carefully taken into account to understand what might trigger ECs exploitation in the EU.
Unveiling Falling Urban Trees before and during Typhoon Higos (2020): Empirical Case Study of Potential Structural Failure Using Tilt Sensor
Authors: Hui Karena Ka Wai , Wong Man Sing , Kwok Coco Yin Tung , Li Hon , Abbas Sawaid , Nichol Janet E.
Published: February 2022

Urban trees in a densely populated environment may pose risks to the public’s safety in terms of the potential danger of injuries and fatalities, loss of property, impacts on traffic, etc. The biological and mechanical features of urban trees may change over time, thereby affecting the stability of the tree structure. This can be a gradual process but can also be drastic, especially after typhoons or heavy rainstorms. Trees may fall at any time with no discernible signs of failure being exhibited or detected. It is always a challenge in urban tree management to develop a preventive alert system to detect the potential failure of hazardous urban trees and hence be able to have an action plan to handle potential tree tilting or tree collapse. Few studies have considered the comparison of tree morphology to the tilt response relative to uprooting failure in urban cities. New methods involving numerical modeling and sensing technologies provide tools for an effective and deeper understanding of the interaction of root-plate movement and windstorm with the application of the tailor-made sensor. In this study, root-plate tilt variations of 889 trees with sensors installed during Typhoon Higos (2020) are investigated, especially the tilting pattern of the two trees that failed in the event. The correlation of tree response during the typhoon among all trees with tilt measurements was also evaluated. The results from two alarm levels developed in the study, i.e., Increasing Trend Alarm and Sudden Increase Alarm indicated that significant root-plate movement to wind response is species-dependent. These systems could help inform decision making to identify the problematic trees in the early stage. Through the use of smart sensors, the data collected by the alert system provides a very useful analysis of the stability of tree structure and tree health in urban tree management.
Response of Functional Diversity of Soil Microbial Community to Forest Cutting and Regeneration Methodology in a Chinese Fir Plantation
Authors: Wang Xu , Gao Shenghua , Chen Jiquan , Yao Zengwang , Zhang Lei , Wu Hailong , Shu Qi , Zhang Xudong
Published: February 2022

With the expansion of pure forest planting area and the increase in the number of rotations used, soil activity and plant productivity have significantly reduced. The functional diversity of soil microorganisms plays a vital role in forest health and the long-term maintenance of productivity. Though the optimization of forest cutting and regeneration methodologies is necessary to improve the functional diversity of soil microorganisms, the effects of harvest residual treatment on the functional diversity of soil microorganisms remain unclear. During the period 2018–2020, we designed four harvest residual treatments—reference (RF), residual burning (RB), crushing and mulching (MT), and no residuals (NR)—to determine soil physical and chemical properties. We also used microbial biomass (MB) to evaluate the diversity in carbon source metabolism of soil microorganisms through Biolog microplate technology, and discussed the response mechanism of microbial functional diversity to the different forest cutting and regeneration methodologies used in Chinese fir plantations. The results indicated that RB significantly increased the carbon metabolic capacity of the microbial community, the community richness, and its dominance compared to RF, MT, and NR; however, they also showed that it decreased the uniformity of the soil microbial community. NR showed a poor carbon utilization capacity for microorganisms compared to RF and MT, while MT significantly increased the utilization capacity of carbohydrate and amino acid carbon compared with RF. Soil nutrients were the main driving factors of soil microbial carbon metabolic activity, and the different responses of microbial functional diversity to various forest cutting and regeneration methodologies were mainly due to the variation in the nutrient inputs of harvest residues. This study provides a practical basis for enhancing the functional diversity of soil microorganisms in plantations through the management of harvest residues.
Digital Twin—Cyber Replica of Physical Things: Architecture, Applications and Future Research Directions
Authors: Qian Cheng , Liu Xing , Ripley Colin , Qian Mian , Liang Fan , Yu Wei
Published: February 2022

The Internet of Things (IoT) connects massive smart devices to collect big data and carry out the monitoring and control of numerous things in cyber-physical systems (CPS). By leveraging machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques to analyze the collected data, physical systems can be monitored and controlled effectively. Along with the development of IoT and data analysis technologies, a number of CPS (smart grid, smart transportation, smart manufacturing, smart cities, etc.) adopt IoT and data analysis technologies to improve their performance and operations. Nonetheless, directly manipulating or updating the real system has inherent risks. Thus, creating a digital clone of a real physical system, denoted as a Digital Twin (DT), is a viable strategy. Generally speaking, a DT is a data-driven software and hardware emulation platform, which is a cyber replica of physical systems. Meanwhile, a DT describes a specific physical system and tends to achieve the functions and use cases of physical systems. Since DT is a complex digital system, finding a way to effectively represent a variety of things in timely and efficient manner poses numerous challenges to the networking, computing, and data analytics for IoT. Furthermore, the design of a DT for IoT systems must consider numerous exceptional requirements (e.g., latency, reliability, safety, scalability, security, and privacy). To address such challenges, the thoughtful design of DTs offers opportunities for novel and interdisciplinary research efforts. To address the aforementioned problems and issues, in this paper, we first review the architectures of DTs, data representation, and communication protocols. We then review existing efforts on applying DT into IoT data-driven smart systems, including the smart grid, smart transportation, smart manufacturing, and smart cities. Further, we summarize the existing challenges from CPS, data science, optimization, and security and privacy perspectives. Finally, we outline possible future research directions from the perspectives of performance, new DT-driven services, model and learning, and security and privacy.
A Modular Wave Energy Converter for Observational and Navigational Buoys
Authors: Vella Nicholas , Foley Jamie , Sloat James , Sandoval Alexander , D’Attile Leonardo , Masoumi Masoud
Published: February 2022

More than 80% of the ocean is not fully mapped or even observed, even though it covers over 70% of our planet’s surface. One of the primary challenges for ocean observation and monitoring is the required power for exploration and monitoring systems, which often operate in remote areas of the ocean. This work addresses the design and development of an ocean wave energy converter that can be installed on observational buoys to provide enough power for sensors, cameras, data acquisition and recording, as well as data transfer units. The initial simulations of the prototype indicate that this system can produce up to 3.7–3.85 watts of power on average, with greater than 12 watts of maximum power in two selected sites in California and Hawaii. The proposed system is simple and low-cost. Further, multiple energy converters can be installed on one buoy to address higher power needs.
Effect of Pulsed Electric Fields on the Lipidomic Profile of Lipid Extracted from Hoki Fish Male Gonad
Authors: Burnett Anna , Ahmmed Mirja Kaizer , Carne Alan , Tian Hong (Sabrina) , Ahmed Isam A. Mohamed , Al-Juhaimi Fahad Y. , Bekhit Alaa El-Din Ahmed
Published: February 2022

Processing of hoki, a commercially important fish species, generates substantial quantities of co-products, including male gonad, which contains valuable lipids, such as phospholipids, that could be recovered and utilised. Hoki fish male gonads (HMG) were subjected to pulsed electric fields (PEF) treatment at varying field strengths (0.625, 1.25, and 1.875 kV/cm) and frequencies (25, 50, and 100 Hz), at a fixed pulse width of 20 μs. The total lipid was extracted using an ethanol-hexane-based (ETHEX) extraction method, and the phospholipid and fatty acid compositions were determined using 31P NMR and GC-FID, respectively. The total lipid yield was increased from 4.1% to 6.7% by a relatively mild PEF pre-treatment at a field strength of 1.25 kV/cm and frequency of 50 Hz. A higher amount of EPA (8.2%), DPA (2.7%), and DHA (35.7%) were obtained by that treatment, compared to both un-heated (EPA: 8%; DPA: 2.5%; DHA: 35.2%) and heat-treated controls (EPA: 7.9%; DPA: 2.5%; DHA: 34%). No significant changes to the content of the major phospholipids were observed. PEF pre-treatment under mild conditions has potential for improving the total lipid yield extracted from fish male gonad.
Encapsulation of Capsaicin in Whey Protein and OSA-Modified Starch Using Spray-Drying: Physicochemical Properties and Its Stability
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zheng Luyao , Liang Siyuan , Lu Yifan , Zheng Jianmei , Zhang Guoquan , Li Wenhao , Jiang Hao
Published: February 2022

The poor water-solubility and stability of capsaicin limits its widespread application in the industry. Spray-dried capsaicin microcapsules were fabricated using whey protein (WP) and octenyl-succinic-anhydride-modified starch (OS) as wall materials in this study. The aim is to investigate the impact of protein/starch ratio on microcapsules’ physicochemical characteristics and stability. SEM images showed that microcapsule granules were uneven in size, and irregular, with some wrinkles and dents. FTIR illustrated a chemical interaction between capsaicin and composite wall materials. XRD showed that the spray-dried powders were mainly in amorphous form. As the whey protein content decreased, the yield (9.32–68.18%), encapsulation efficiency (49.91–94.57%), wettability (158.87–232.63 s), and solubility (74.99–96.57%) of samples decreased, but the mean particle size (3.22–26.03 μm), apparent viscosity, and shear stress tended to increase. Besides, DSC revealed that the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of samples were at around 85 °C. Capsaicin microcapsules with WP:OS at the ratio of 7:3 possessed the highest Tg, and the best storage stability. Based on our research, microencapsulation significantly improved the stability and the water-solubility of capsaicin. A small amount of OSA-starch mixed with whey protein as a promising carrier for capsaicin would greatly promote the application of capsaicin in the food industry.
Two-Step PEF Processing for Enhancing the Polyphenol Concentration and Decontaminating a Red Grape Juice
Authors: Delso Carlota , Berzosa Alejandro , Sanz Jorge , Álvarez Ignacio , Raso Javier
Published: February 2022

This study’s aim is to evaluate Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF) technology as an alternative method for the processing of red grape juice. For this purpose, two PEF treatments were applied: first to grapes for polyphenol enrichment of the juice, and subsequently for microbial decontamination of the obtained juice. Juice obtained from PEF-treated grapes (5 kV/cm, 63.4 kJ/kg) had the polyphenol content 1.5-fold higher and colour intensity two times higher of control juices by spectrophotometric measurement (p ≤ 0.05). A subsequent decontamination treatment by PEF (17.5 kV/cm and 173.6 kJ/kg) achieved inactivation of the present microbiota (yeasts, moulds, and vegetative mesophilic bacteria) below detection level (<30 CFU/mL). Furthermore, PEF-treated juices were microbiologically stable up to 45 days, even at abusive refrigeration storage temperatures (10 °C). PEF juice quality and sensory characteristics were similar to a fresh juice; they were neither affected by the PEF decontamination treatment, nor by storage time and temperature. Results obtained in this study demonstrate the considerable potential of PEF for the production of a polyphenol-enriched and microbially stabilized red grape juice as a unique and sustainable alternative for the juice industry, while avoiding enzymatic and heat treatments.
Impact of Kosher Slaughter Methods of Heifers and Young Bulls on Physical and Chemical Properties of Their Meat
Authors: Żurek Jagoda , Rudy Mariusz , Duma-Kocan Paulina , Stanisławczyk Renata , Gil Marian
Published: February 2022

This work aimed to comprehensively analyze the factors (slaughter method, gender, and muscle type) that determine the kosher status of beef and assess their influence on the selected quality characteristics of raw meat. The muscles were obtained from 40 carcasses of heifers and 40 carcasses of young bulls. In the first stage of the experiment, pH values were measured. The water, protein, fat, minerals, and collagen contents were determined. Then, the shear force, forced drip, and thermal drip were measured. The experimental results indicated that all the investigated parameters have an impact on the final quality of beef. Statistically significantly lower pH1 values were noticed in the longissimus thoracic muscle of young bulls obtained through kosher slaughter methods. However, 24 and 48 h after slaughter, higher pH values were observed in the meat of young bulls obtained by the kosher slaughter method, where the meat samples were subjected to kosher treatment. The koshering process (salting and washing) resulted in a significant reduction in both forced and thermal drip values of the meat sample, but this decrease was not affected by gender.
Following Excitation/Inhibition Ratio Homeostasis from Synapse to EEG in Monogenetic Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Geertjens Lisa , van Voorst Torben W. , Bouman Arianne , van Boven Maaike A. , Kleefstra Tjitske , Verhage Matthijs , Linkenkaer-Hansen Klaus , Nadif Kasri Nael , Cornelisse L. Niels , Bruining Hilgo
Published: February 2022

Pharmacological options for neurodevelopmental disorders are limited to symptom suppressing agents that do not target underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Studies on specific genetic disorders causing neurodevelopmental disorders have elucidated pathophysiological mechanisms to develop more rational treatments. Here, we present our concerted multi-level strategy ‘BRAINMODEL’, focusing on excitation/inhibition ratio homeostasis across different levels of neuroscientific interrogation. The aim is to develop personalized treatment strategies by linking iPSC-based models and novel EEG measurements to patient report outcome measures in individual patients. We focus our strategy on chromatin- and SNAREopathies as examples of severe genetic neurodevelopmental disorders with an unmet need for rational interventions.
Soil Formation and Mass Redistribution during the Holocene Using Meteoric 10Be, Soil Chemistry and Mineralogy
Authors: Musso Alessandra , Tikhomirov Dmitry , Plötze Michael L. , Greinwald Konrad , Hartmann Anne , Geitner Clemens , Maier Fabian , Petibon Fanny , Egli Markus
Published: February 2022

Soil development and erosion are important and opposing processes in the evolution of high-mountainous landscapes, though their dynamics are not fully understood. We compared soil development between a calcareous and a siliceous chronosequence in the central Swiss Alps at high altitudes, which both cover soil formation over the Holocene. We calculated element mass balances, long-term erosion rates based on meteoric 10Be and we determined the rates of soil formation. We also analyzed the shifts in the mineralogical composition, weathering indices, the particle size distribution, carbon stocks and oxalate extractable Fe, Al, and Mn. The siliceous soils had high chemical weathering rates at the early stage of soil formation that strongly decreased after a few millennia. The development of calcareous soil was characterized by high carbonate losses and a shift to finer soil texture. Soil erosion hampered the upbuilding of soil horizons in the early stages of soil development, which led to a delay in soil and vegetation development. This study shows how soil formation drivers change over time. In the early stages of soil development, the parent material predominantly drives soil formation while at later stages the vegetation becomes more dominant as it influences surface stability, hydrological pathways, and chemical weathering that determine water drainage and retention.
Impact of the Intake of Snacks and Lifestyle Behaviors on Obesity among University Students Living in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aljefree Najlaa M. , Shatwan Israa M. , Almoraie Noha M.
Published: February 2022

Unhealthy eating habits increase the risk of obesity. This study investigated the association between obesity and the intake of snacks and lifestyle behaviors among university students in Saudi Arabia. The study included 662 students aged 18–29 years, studying at King Abdulaziz University. An online survey collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, height, and weight, to calculate body mass index (BMI), lifestyle behaviors, dietary habits, and snack intake. The prevalence of overweight and obese students was 18.6% and 12.7%, respectively. Sociodemographic characteristics and lifestyle behaviors had insignificant effects on obesity. Obese students consumed two meals daily and more cereals during breakfast. Non-obese students consumed more beverages at breakfast and had their daily meals with their families. The frequency of intake of snacks had an insignificant effect on obesity. However, obese students had a significantly higher intake of potato chips, popcorn, and biscuits, while non-obese students had a significantly higher intake of salads compared with obese students. Students consumed significantly less fruit and vegetables, chocolate, biscuits, nuts, and dairy products as snacks when inside the university compared to outside. To reduce obesity among students, universities should ensure access to healthy snacks, and provide health education programs to encourage healthy eating habits and lifestyles.
Relationships between ENDS-Related Familial Factors and Oral Health among Adolescents in the United States
Authors: Hung Man , Lipsky Martin S. , Mohajeri Amir , Goh Clarissa , Park Jungweon , Hardy Chase , Su Sharon , Licari Frank W.
Published: February 2022

The influence of familial and social environments plays a significant role in Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) use and may contribute to poor oral health among adolescents. This study utilized the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) database and included youths aged 12 to 17 years who reported no history of dental health issues at baseline. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) were used to examine the association between END-related familial factors and oral health among adolescents in the United States, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. The sample consisted of 3892 adolescents (weighted N = 22,689,793). Parents’ extremely negative reaction towards ENDS when they found their children using ENDS (AOR = 0.309) was connected to a lower risk of oral health issues. The findings suggest that clinicians and policymakers need to consider the roles of these factors when developing strategies to improve oral health outcomes.
“Dietitians May Only Have One Chance”—The Realities of Treating Obesity in Private Practice in Australia
Authors: Harper Claudia , Seimon Radhika V. , Sainsbury Amanda , Maher Judith
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Overweight and obesity are the leading contributors to non-fatal burden of disease in Australia. Very low energy diets (VLEDs) comprising of meal replacement products (MRP) effectively induce substantial weight loss in people with obesity, yet they are rarely used as a first line treatment. Dietitians in private practice are perfectly placed to administer treatments for obesity; however, little is known about the preferred interventions used or their attitudes to incorporating VLEDs and MRPs into their treatments for overweight and obesity. Methods: This study used descriptive qualitative methods to explore accredited practicing dietitians’ (APDs’) perspectives and practices regarding obesity and obesity interventions, including the use of VLEDs and MRPs. Qualitative in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 dietitians who had experience in private practice and in treating obesity. Transcribed interviews were analysed thematically using the technique of template analysis. Results: In the context within which dietitians’ practice was found to be a barrier to using evidence-based practice (EBP) for obesity treatment, four overarching themes were found. These were: (1) patient-centred care is the dietitians’ preferred intervention model; (2) VLEDs promote weight loss in specific situations; (3) systemic barriers constrain effective dietetic practice and equitable access to all, and (4) successful outcomes are predicated on working outside of systemic barriers. Conclusion: Dietitians in private practice are well placed and able to provide life-enhancing and evidence-based treatments for overweight and obesity and associated chronic disease in the community. However, systemic barriers need to be addressed to provide equitable access to effective care irrespective of socio-economic status.
Measurements of Tear Evaporation Rate in Subjects with Refractive Errors Using a Portable Evaporimeter
Authors: Fagehi Raied , El-Hiti Gamal A. , Alsubaie Mushawwat H. , Abusharha Ali , Alanazi Mana A. , Masmali Ali M. , Almubrad Turki
Published: February 2022

Dry eye symptoms are associated with refractive errors. We aimed to measure the tear evaporation rate (TER) in subjects with refractive errors (RE) using a portable evaporimeter. This nonrandomized, case–control, and observational study included 75 subjects, including 25 subjects aged 18–38 years (28.8 ± 6.8 years) with myopia (−0.75 to −3.75 D) and 25 subjects aged 18–39 years (27.7 ± 5.5 years) with hyperopia (+0.50 to +3.75 D). In addition, a control group of 25 subjects with emmetropic eyes aged 20–30 years (23.6 ± 2.6 years) was recruited. The ocular surface disease index (OSDI) was completed, followed by the TER measurements using a portable evaporimeter. The OSDI score and TER measurements showed dry eye symptoms in 36% and 48% of myopic subjects, respectively. For hyperopic participants, dry eye was observed in 24% and 56% of the subjects based on the OSDI and TER scores, respectively. Significant differences (Mann-Whitney U test; p < 0.001) were found among the OSDI and TER scores recorded within the study (myopic and hyperopic subjects) and control groups. Significant strong positive correlations were detected between the OSDI and TER scores in both myopic (p = 0.004; r = 0.559) and hyperopic (p = 0.001; r = 0.619) subjects. The TER scores were significantly higher in subjects with RE (myopic and hyperopic) as compared with individuals with normal eyes.
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss May Increase the Risk of Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Kim Jong-Yeup , Ko Inseok , Kim Dong-Kyu
Published: February 2022

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is thought to be a vascular disease. Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is an also common ophthalmic vascular disease. Thus, we investigated the potential relationship between these using a retrospective nationwide cohort dataset. We compared 49,584 subjects in the SSNHL and the comparison (non-SSNHL) groups using patients randomly selected via propensity-score matching. We calculated the incidence, survival rate, and hazards ratio (HR) using log-rank test, and Cox proportional hazards regression models. This study examined a total of 375,490.4 person-years in the SSNHL group and 373,698.2 person-years in the comparison group. We found that 673 patients in the SSNHL group (1.8 cases per 1000 person-years) and 592 in the comparison group (1.6 cases per 1000 person-years) developed RVO during the 8-year follow-up period. The adjusted HR of RVO was 1.13 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.26). The adjusted HR of developing RVO in SSNHL was the greatest in elderly patients (adjusted HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.01–1.46) and male patients (adjusted HR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.03–1.34). Our findings suggest that clinicians should remain vigilant of the possibility of RVO development in SSNHL patients, specifically elderly male patients.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Sex-Biased Expression of Hormone-Related Genes at an Early Stage of Sex Differentiation in Red Bayberry (Morella rubra)
Authors: Jia Huimin , Zhao Lan , Wang Yan , Wu Hongxia , Zhao Haibo , Zhu Yifan , Jiao Yun , Wang Guoyun , Zhou Chaochao , Huang Chunhui , Jia Huijuan , Gao Zhongshan
Published: February 2022

The molecular mechanism of sex development and differentiation in the economically important dioecious fruit tree, red bayberry (Morella rubra), was revealed using next-generation transcriptome sequencing (NGS), and comparative analyses were used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in female and male flower buds. A total of 7029 of these DEGs were identified at two early development stages. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that plant hormone signal transduction was significantly overrepresented, and 91 genes related to hormones were identified. An analysis of 7029 DEGs revealed 161 hormone-related genes, with the 42 related to auxin and 26 related to ethylene being the most highly represented. A total of 62 genes were significantly up-regulated in females and 29 were in males, with 18 of them specifically expressed in females and 10 in males. A total of 415 transcription factors were identified, with 129 genes up-regulated in females and 53 in males. Moreover, 38 had female-specific expression and 18 had male-specific expression. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), two modules were found to be associated with sexual type. In the module coded light-green, there were five genes related to hormones, one to flower development and ten transcription factors with four genes specifically expressed in the males and four in females. The hub gene in the light-green module is MR0TCONS_00017483.1 (ACO), which is involved in ethylene biosynthesis and had male-specific expression. Among the transcription factors, three of the four male-specific expressed genes involved in flavonoid biosynthesis, including the MYB gene MR1TCONS_00020658.1 and two BHLH genes, MR6G001563.1 and MR8G020751.1, played important roles in male floral differentiation. In the dark-cyan module, six hormone-related genes, five transcription factors and three flower development genes were identified with the hub gene MR1G019545.1 (ETR1), which participates in the ethylene signaling pathway, and MR4G023618.1, which encodes the C3H zinc finger transcription factor. These results indicate that ethylene is the key hormone that interacts with other hormones and transcription factors to regulate sex differentiation in the red bayberry, which also provides new insights into the mechanism of sex determination and differentiation in the red bayberry.
Risk Factors Associated with Diarrheal Episodes in an Agricultural Community in Nam Dinh Province, Vietnam: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Iwashita Hanako , Tokizawa Asako , Thiem Vu Dinh , Takemura Taichiro , Nguyen Tuan Hai , Doan Hang Thi , Pham Anh Hong Quynh , Tran Na Ly , Yamashiro Tetsu
Published: February 2022

In Vietnam, data on the risk factors for diarrhea at the community level remain sparse. This study aimed to provide an overview of diarrheal diseases in an agricultural community in Vietnam, targeting all age groups. Specifically, we investigated the incidence of diarrheal disease at the community level and described the potential risk factors associated with diarrheal diseases. In this prospective cohort study, a total of 1508 residents were enrolled during the 54-week study period in northern Vietnam. The observed diarrheal incidence per person-year was 0.51 episodes. For children aged <5 years, the incidence per person-year was 0.81 episodes. Unexpectedly, the frequency of diarrhea was significantly higher among participants who used tap water for drinking than among participants who used rainwater. Participants who used a flush toilet had less frequent diarrhea than those who used a pit latrine. The potential risk factors for diarrhea included the source of water used in daily life, drinking water, and type of toilet. However, the direct reason for the association between potential risk factors and diarrhea was not clear. The infection routes of diarrheal pathogens in the environment remain to be investigated at this study site.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: From Symptoms to Treatment
Authors: Iannella Giannicola , Magliulo Giuseppe , Greco Antonio , de Vincentiis Marco , Ralli Massimo , Maniaci Antonino , Pace Annalisa , Vicini Claudio
Published: February 2022

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome is a respiratory sleep disorder characterized by partial or complete recurrent episodes of upper airway collapse that occur during the night. The OSA manifests with a reduction (hypopnea) or complete cessation (apnea) of airflow in the upper airways, associated with breathing effort. OSA is a frequent and often underestimated pathology affecting between 2 and 5% of the middle-aged population. Typical nocturnal symptoms are the persistent snoring and awakenings with dyspnea sensation. On the other hand, diurnal symptoms could be sleepiness, headaches, asthenia, neurological disorders, and impaired personal relationships. Surgery of the velo-pharyngeal region had a huge evolution going from ablative techniques (UP3 and LAUP) to remodeling techniques of the pharyngeal lateral walls.
Lung Cancer Imaging: Screening Result and Nodule Management
Authors: Guerrini Susanna , Del Roscio Davide , Zanoni Matteo , Cameli Paolo , Bargagli Elena , Volterrani Luca , Mazzei Maria Antonietta , Luzzi Luca
Published: February 2022

Background: Lung cancer (LC) represents the main cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, especially because the majority of patients present with an advanced stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis. This systematic review describes the evidence behind screening results and the current guidelines available to manage lung nodules. Methods: This review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The following electronic databases were searched: PubMed, EMBASE, and the Web of Science. Results: Five studies were included in the systematic review. The study cohort included 46,364 patients, and, in this case series, LC was detected in 9028 patients. Among the patients with detected LC, 1261 died of lung cancer, 3153 died of other types of cancers and 4614 died of other causes. Conclusions: This systematic review validates the use of CT in LC screening follow-ups, and bids for future integration and implementation of nodule management protocols to improve LC screening, avoid missed cancers and to reduce the number of unnecessary investigations.
Detecting Airborne Pollen Using an Automatic, Real-Time Monitoring System: Evidence from Two Sites
Authors: Plaza Maria Pilar , Kolek Franziska , Leier-Wirtz Vivien , Brunner Jens Otto , Traidl-Hoffmann Claudia , Damialis Athanasios
Published: February 2022

Airborne pollen monitoring has been an arduous task, making ecological applications and allergy management virtually disconnected from everyday practice. Over the last decade, intensive research has been conducted worldwide to automate this task and to obtain real-time measurements. The aim of this study was to evaluate such an automated biomonitoring system vs. the conventional ‘gold-standard’ Hirst-type technique, attempting to assess which may more accurately provide the genuine exposure to airborne pollen. Airborne pollen was monitored in Augsburg since 2015 with two different methods, a novel automatic Bio-Aerosol Analyser, and with the conventional 7-day recording Hirst-type volumetric trap, in two different sites. The reliability, performance, accuracy, and comparability of the BAA500 Pollen Monitor (PoMo) vs. the conventional device were investigated, by use of approximately 2.5 million particles sampled during the study period. The observations made by the automated PoMo showed an average accuracy of approximately 85%. However, it also exhibited reliability problems, with information gaps within the main pollen season of between 17 to 19 days. The PoMo automated algorithm had identification issues, mainly confusing the taxa of Populus, Salix and Tilia. Hirst-type measurements consistently exhibited lower pollen abundances (median of annual pollen integral: 2080), however, seasonal traits were more comparable, with the PoMo pollen season starting slightly later (median: 3 days), peaking later (median: 5 days) but also ending later (median: 14 days). Daily pollen concentrations reported by Hirst-type traps vs. PoMo were significantly, but not closely, correlated (r = 0.53–0.55), even after manual classification. Automatic pollen monitoring has already shown signs of efficiency and accuracy, despite its young age; here it is suggested that automatic pollen monitoring systems may be more effective in capturing a larger proportion of the airborne pollen diversity. Even though reliability issues still exist, we expect that this new generation of automated bioaerosol monitoring will eventually change the aerobiological era, as known for almost 70 years now.