bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Evaluation of a Crowdsourcing Precision Agriculture Mobile Application for Lambsquarters, Mission LQ
Authors: Posadas Brianna B. , Hanumappa Mamatha , Niewolny Kim , Gilbert Juan E.
Published: September 2021

Precision agriculture is highly dependent on the collection of high quality ground truth data to validate the algorithms used in prescription maps. However, the process of collecting ground truth data is labor-intensive and costly. One solution to increasing the collection of ground truth data is by recruiting citizen scientists through a crowdsourcing platform. In this study, a crowdsourcing platform application was built using a human-centered design process. The primary goals were to gauge users’ perceptions of the platform, evaluate how well the system satisfies their needs, and observe whether the classification rate of lambsquarters by the users would match that of an expert. Previous work demonstrated a need for ground truth data on lambsquarters in the D.C., Maryland, Virginia (DMV) area. Previous social interviews revealed users who would want a citizen science platform to expand their skills and give them access to educational resources. Using a human-centered design protocol, design iterations of a mobile application were created in Kinvey Studio. The application, Mission LQ, taught people how to classify certain characteristics of lambsquarters in the DMV and allowed them to submit ground truth data. The final design of Mission LQ received a median system usability scale (SUS) score of 80.13, which indicates a good design. The classification rate of lambsquarters was 72%, which is comparable to expert classification. This demonstrates that a crowdsourcing mobile application can be used to collect high quality ground truth data for use in precision agriculture.
Mitochondrial DNA and Exercise: Implications for Health and Injuries in Sports
Authors: Zanini Giada , De Gaetano Anna , Selleri Valentina , Savino Gustavo , Cossarizza Andrea , Pinti Marcello , Mattioli Anna Vittoria , Nasi Milena
Published: September 2021

Recently, several studies have highlighted the tight connection between mitochondria and physical activity. Mitochondrial functions are important in high-demanding metabolic activities, such as endurance sports. Moreover, regular training positively affects metabolic health by increasing mitochondrial oxidative capacity and regulating glucose metabolism. Exercise could have multiple effects, also on the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and vice versa; some studies have investigated how mtDNA polymorphisms can affect the performance of general athletes and mtDNA haplogroups seem to be related to the performance of elite endurance athletes. Along with several stimuli, including pathogens, stress, trauma, and reactive oxygen species, acute and intense exercise also seem to be responsible for mtDNA release into the cytoplasm and extracellular space, leading to the activation of the innate immune response. In addition, several sports are characterized by a higher frequency of injuries, including cranial trauma, associated with neurological consequences. However, with regular exercise, circulating cell-free mtDNA levels are kept low, perhaps promoting cf-mtDNA removal, acting as a protective factor against inflammation.
Acceptance of Psycho-Oncological Counseling Formats in a Cancer Counseling Center during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Exploratory Care Study
Authors: Lohmiller Jacqueline , Schäffeler Norbert , Sütterlin Heike , Zipfel Stephan , Stengel Andreas
Published: September 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic made it necessary to change established structures of medical counseling services and quickly establish digital counseling formats to ensure continuity of care. In this context, we offered telephone and video-telephonic counseling in addition to traditional face-to-face counseling in the office. Methods: Patients (n = 100) of the Cancer Counseling Center, Tübingen, were asked to complete a questionnaire to assess the acceptance of the counseling format following each counseling session (office, telephone, and video) in the period between July 2020 and February 2021. The questionnaire included the subject areas of patient characterization, assessment of therapeutic contact, therapeutic relationship, and hurdles and was used in this exploratory care study. Results: The satisfaction and acceptance of the three counseling formats (office, telephone, and video) were rated as “good” to “very good” in the three subgroups (range 1–6, office M = 1.2, telephone M = 1.3, video M = 1.4). Likewise, the “therapeutic relationship” achieved high ratings in terms of establishment of a therapeutic relationship in all three subgroups (office M = 5.7, telephone M = 5.0, video M = 5.0). The type of contact (office and video counseling) achieved a significant main effect on the therapeutic relationship for items such as “I believe that counseling is helping me” (F(2,97) = 4.80, p = 0.01) and “I feel that I can rely on the counselor/therapist” (F(2,97) = 3.29, p = 0.04). The “hurdles” were rated as minor and tolerable (office M = 1.3, telephone M = 1.3, video M = 1.4). Predictor analyses showed that there was no effect of age and gender on the acceptance of digital counseling formats in the present sample. Discussion and Conclusion: On the basis of this survey, it can be concluded that digital counseling formats were perceived by patients as a promising addition to the classic face-to-face setting. In addition, it can be stated that the digital formats (telephone and video) were not generally preferred to face-to-face counseling, but that the innovative telecounseling was accepted and perceived with great satisfaction and acceptance. Accordingly, the additional use of digital counseling formats could be an opportunity to enrich and expand the existing presence structures also after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Design of Powering Wireless Medical Sensor Based on Spiral-Spider Coils
Authors: Mahmood Mustafa F. , Gharghan Sadik Kamel , Mohammed Saleem Latteef , Al-Naji Ali , Chahl Javaan
Published: September 2021

Biomedical sensors help patients monitor their health conditions and receive assistance anywhere and at any time. However, the limited battery capacity of medical devices limits their functionality. One advantageous method to tackle this limited-capacity issue is to employ the wireless power transfer (WPT) technique. In this paper, a WPT technique using a magnetic resonance coupling (MRC-WPT)-based wireless heart rate (WHR) monitoring system—which continuously records the heart rate of patients—has been designed, and its efficiency is confirmed through real-time implementation. The MRC-WPT involves three main units: the transmitter, receiver, and observing units. In this research, a new design of spiral-spider coil was designed and implemented for transmitter and receiver units, respectively, to supply the measurement unit, which includes a heart rate sensor, microcontroller, and wireless protocol (nRF24L01) with the operating voltage. The experimental results found that an adequate voltage of 5 V was achieved by the power component to operate the measurement unit at a 20 cm air gap between the receiver and transmitter coils. Further, the measurement accuracy of the WHR was 99.65% comparative to the benchmark (BM) instrument. Moreover, the measurements of the WHR were validated based on statistical analyses. The results of this study are superior to those of leading works in terms of measurement accuracy, power transfer, and Transfer efficiency.
Development of a Smart Meter for Power Quality-Based Tariff Implementation in a Smart Grid
Authors: Balwani Mayurkumar Rajkumar , Thirumala Karthik , Mohan Vivek , Bu Siqi , Thomas Mini Shaji
Published: September 2021

Regarding the modern power smart grid, distribution consumers and prosumers are highly concerned about power quality (PQ). In fact, they would prefer to pay higher prices for a reliable and good quality power supply. Unfortunately, utility operators still aim for reliability alone, ignoring the quality of supply voltage and current. There are no clear guidelines for monitoring, penalizing, or implementing PQ-based tariff schemes in LV distribution systems. In addition, the implementation of a PQ-based tariff requires a real-time measuring mechanism at the user end, which is very expensive and difficult to understand for a domestic consumer. This paper presents a novel, low-cost, efficient, and user-friendly smart PQ meter to overcome these issues and limitations. It is essentially a PQ analyzer with energy metering functionality, which implements a novel PQ-based tariff scheme that penalizes consumers violating the PQ limits and provides incentives for a good PQ profile. It measures as many as 28 parameters and keeps track of the PQ for both the consumer and the grid in real-time. This paper demonstrates the specifications, design, and testing of the meter and proves the validity of the concept by practical implementation. The meter is practical, feasible, and economical for implementing PQ-based tariff schemes in LV distribution systems or smart grids.
Implementation of a Ventilation Protocol for SARS-CoV-2 in a Higher Educational Centre
Authors: Meiss Alberto , Poza-Casado Irene , Llorente-Álvarez Alfredo , Jimeno-Merino Héctor , Padilla-Marcos Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2021

The most recent research confirms that airborne transmission may be the dominant mode of SARS-CoV-2 virus spread in the interior spaces of buildings. Consequently, based on some prescriptions that implemented natural ventilation during face-to-face lessons in a university centre, an experimental characterization of several complementary options aimed at reinforcing the prevention and safety of the occupants was carried out. The action protocol adopted was based on the combination of mandatory natural ventilation, a maximum contribution of outdoor air supply in the air conditioning system, and the use of filtering devices located inside the classroom. All the strategies were incorporated concomitantly with necessary compliance with the basic conditions of social distance, occupation, use of masks and guidelines for use and cleaning within educational buildings. The suitability of this protocol was further evaluated throughout the teaching day with students and teachers by measuring the CO2 concentration. The results showed that the measures implemented successfully removed the possible pollutants generated inside.
A CFD Design Approach for Industrial Size Tubular Reactors for SNG Production from Biogas (CO2 Methanation)
Authors: Soto Victor , Ulloa Claudia , Garcia Ximena
Published: September 2021

A tubular reactor based on the disk and doughnut concept was designed as an engineering solution for biogas upgrading via CO2 methanation. CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) benchmarks agreed well with experimental and empirical (correlation) data, giving a maximum error of 8.5% and 20% for the chemical reaction and heat transfer models, respectively. Likewise, hot spot position was accurately predicted, with a 5% error. The methodology was used to investigate the effect of two commercially available coolants (thermal oil and molten salts) on overall reactor performance through a parametric study involving four coolant flow rates. Although molten salts did show higher heat transfer coefficients at lower coolant rates, 82% superior, it also increases, by five times, the pumping power. A critical coolant flow rate (3.5 m3/h) was found, which allows both a stable thermal operation and optimum pumping energy consumption. The adopted coolant flow range remains critical to guarantee thermal design validity in correlation-based studies. Due to the disk and doughnut configuration, coolant flow remains uniform, promoting turbulence (Re ≈ 14,000 at doughnut outlet) and maximizing heat transfer at hot spot. Likewise, baffle positioning was found critical to accommodate and reduce stagnant zones, improving the heat transfer. Finally, a reactor design is presented for SNG (Synthetic Natural Gas) production from a 150 Nm3 h−1 biogas plant.
Enhancement of the Thermal Energy Storage Using Heat-Pipe-Assisted Phase Change Material
Authors: Behi Hamidreza , Behi Mohammadreza , Ghanbarpour Ali , Karimi Danial , Azad Aryan , Ghanbarpour Morteza , Behnia Masud
Published: September 2021

Usage of phase change materials’ (PCMs) latent heat has been investigated as a promising method for thermal energy storage applications. However, one of the most common disadvantages of using latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) is the low thermal conductivity of PCMs. This issue affects the rate of energy storage (charging/discharging) in PCMs. Many researchers have proposed different methods to cope with this problem in thermal energy storage. In this paper, a tubular heat pipe as a super heat conductor to increase the charging/discharging rate was investigated. The temperature of PCM, liquid fraction observations, and charging and discharging rates are reported. Heat pipe effectiveness was defined and used to quantify the relative performance of heat pipe-assisted PCM storage systems. Both experimental and numerical investigations were performed to determine the efficiency of the system in thermal storage enhancement. The proposed system in the charging/discharging process significantly improved the energy transfer between a water bath and the PCM in the working temperature range of 50 °C to 70 °C.
Vitrinite Equivalent Reflectance Estimation from Improved Maturity Indicator and Well Logs Based on Statistical Methods
Authors: Waszkiewicz Sebastian , Krakowska-Madejska Paulina I.
Published: September 2021

Estimation and correct determination of vitrinite equivalent reflectance in rock is crucial for the assessment of the source rock in both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbon deposits. These parameters can be determined in laboratories on rock samples. Laboratory measurements provide only point information. However, the use of well logs could overcome discontinuities in the data and provide parameters throughout a study interval. Attention has been paid to the estimation of TOC based on well logs. Vitrinite equivalent reflectance estimation is less well discussed and most papers reported cases with high TOC content in analyzed deposits. In this paper, the estimation of improved Ro is presented using a calculated maturity indicator with well logs. As the organic matter content is not high, additional steps were required for the calculation. To improve the quality of the fit and to find similar intervals, the data were grouped using cluster and neural network analysis. The next step was to use the resistivity log to improve the obtained maturity indicator. Due to the changing properties of kerogen with the type and degree of thermal maturity, this approach turned out to be reliable. The use of resistivity significantly increased the correlation coefficient and reduced errors. The method was tested on two wells with different type and maturity of kerogen. The obtained results are satisfactory, which makes it possible to use the method even in formations with a low organic matter content.
Numerical Analysis of Engine Exhaust Flow Parameters for Resolving Pre-Turbine Pulsating Flow Enthalpy and Exergy
Authors: Hong Beichuan , Venkataraman Varun , Cronhjort Andreas
Published: September 2021

Energy carried by engine exhaust pulses is critical to the performance of a turbine or any other exhaust energy recovery system. Enthalpy and exergy are commonly used concepts to describe the energy transport by the flow based on the first and second laws of thermodynamics. However, in order to investigate the crank-angle-resolved exhaust flow enthalpy and exergy, the significance of the flow parameters (pressure, velocity, and temperature) and their demand for high resolution need to be ascertained. In this study, local and global sensitivity analyses were performed on a one-dimensional (1D) heavy-duty diesel engine model to quantify the significance of each flow parameter in the determination of exhaust enthalpy and exergy. The effects of parameter sweeps were analyzed by local sensitivity, and Sobol indices from the global sensitivity showed the correlations between each flow parameter and the computed enthalpy and exergy. The analysis indicated that when considering the specific enthalpy and exergy, flow temperature is the dominant parameter and requires high resolution of the temperature pulse. It was found that a 5% sweep over the temperature pulse leads to maximum deviations of 31% and 27% when resolving the crank angle-based specific enthalpy and specific exergy, respectively. However, when considering the total enthalpy and exergy rates, flow velocity is the most significant parameter, requiring high resolution with a maximum deviation of 23% for the enthalpy rate and 12% for the exergy rate over a 5% sweep of the flow velocity pulse. This study will help to quantify and prioritize fast measurements of pulsating flow parameters in the context of turbocharger turbine inlet flow enthalpy and exergy analysis.
Simulation and Experimental Analysis of Multi-Chamber Arc-Quenching Arresters (MCAA) for 10 kV Transmission Lines
Authors: Wu Dong , Ji Zelin , Wang Jufeng
Published: September 2021

Since conventional lightning protection measures do not effectively extinguish subsequent arcs of electrical frequency after the passage of lightning, it is impossible to prevent lightning-related accidents on the distribution lines. To solve this problem, a 10 kV multi-chamber arc-quenching arrester (MCAA) applicable to transmission lines of different voltage levels is developed. In order to research the arc-quenching characteristics of the MCAA, COMSOL software was used to simulate and analyze the high-speed airflow coupled arc process. Under the action of a strong airflow at high speed, the arc is segmented, the temperature of the arc falls sharply, and eventually, the arc is extinguished. In the simulation process, the conductivity of the arc and the clouds of change of air speed were achieved. It may be concluded that arc segmentation time and airflow generation time are at a subtle level. Meanwhile, an experimental circuit was established to conduct the arc-quenching experiment. A high-speed camera was used to observe the experimental process and the oscilloscope was used to record the arc-quenching waveform. The experimental results show that the MCAA had a good arc-extinguishing effect and that the arc was extinguished within 0.35 ms. The current amplitude of the frequency arc was 1.2 kA.
Experimental Study on Effects of Adjustable Vaned Diffusers on Impeller Backside Cavity of Centrifugal Compressor in CAES
Authors: Lin Zhihua , Zuo Zhitao , Guo Wenbin , Sun Jianting , Liang Qi , Chen Haisheng
Published: September 2021

The impeller backside cavity (IBC) is a unique structure of centrifugal compressor in compressed air energy storage (CAES) systems, which affects the aerodynamic performance of centrifugal compressor, and the angle change of the downstream coupled adjustable vaned diffusers (AVDs) will affect the flow field inside the cavity and compressor performance. This paper relies on the closed test facility of the high-power intercooling compressor to measure static pressure and static temperature at different radii on the static wall of the IBC. The coupling relationship between the IBC and compressor under variable operating conditions is analyzed, and the influence of AVDs on the internal flow in IBC is studied. The results show that static pressure and static temperature rise along the direction of increasing radius, but static temperature drops near the coupling between the impeller outlet and the cavity inlet. Under AVDs’ design angle, static pressure and static temperature at each point, static pressure loss and static temperature loss in the direction of decreasing radius all increase as the flow decreases. Under variable AVDs’ angles, static pressure and static temperature will change differently, and respective loss will also be different.
Prediction of Power Generation Performance of Wound Rotor Synchronous Generator Using Nonlinear Magnetic Equivalent Circuit Method
Authors: Shin Hyo-Seob , Kwon Do-Yun , Woo Jong-Hyeon , Lee Hoon-Ki , Choi Jang-Yong
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a nonlinear magnetic equivalent circuit method and an electromagnetic characteristic analysis and verification of a wound rotor synchronous generator (WRSG). The reluctance generated by the stator, rotor, and air gap is subdivided to form a reluctance construction. A nonlinear magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) for the WRSG is constructed and solved by an iteration method. Moreover, to calculate the inductance of the generator, the reluctance circuit of the d−qaxis is constructed, and the inductance of the generator is obtained using the initial relative permeability of the material. Using the electromagnetic parameters obtained via the MEC method, the power generation characteristics of the generator are predicted. The results of this MEC method are also verified by comparing them with the finite element analysis (FEA) results and experimental results.
Experimental Study of Impingement Effusion Cooled Double-Wall Combustor Liners: Aerodynamic Analysis with Stereo-PIV
Authors: Jackowski Thomas , Elfner Maximilian , Bauer Hans-Jörg , Stichling Katharina , Hahn Marco
Published: September 2021

A new experimental study is presented for a combustor with a double-wall cooling design. The inner wall at the hot gas side features effusion cooling with 7-7-7 laidback fan-shaped holes, and the outer wall at the cold side features an impingement hole pattern with circular holes. Data are acquired to asses the thermal and aerodynamic behavior of the setup, using a new, scaled up, engine similar test rig. Similarity includes Reynolds, Nusselt and Biot numbers for hot gas and coolant flow. Different geometrical setups are studied by varying the cavity height between the two walls and the relative alignment of the two hole patterns at two different impingement Reynolds numbers. This article focuses on the aerodynamic performance of the setup. Instationary flow data are acquired, using a high speed stereo PIV setup. For each geometrical configuration, approximately 20 planes are recorded with a data rate of 1000 Hz by traversing the flow region of interest in the cavity between the two specimen. This fine resolution allows the reconstruction of 3D flow fields for the mean data values and an extensive analysis of transient phenomena at each plane. Time averaged data and jet-center plane transient data are presented in detail. The results show a complex flow field with a hexagonal vortex pattern in the cavity, which is mainly influenced by the cavity height and the relative alignment of the two walls. The jet Reynolds number shows small influence when analyzing normalized data. Small cavity heights show a less developed flow field with less stable vortex systems. The alignment shows a similar influence on vortex system stability, with the aligned case performing better. Additionally, statistical analysis of the jet flow and frequency domain analysis of the jet and the effusion flow are presented, showing the damping capability of the cavity, especially at increased cavity heights, and a residual low frequency pulsation of the effusion cooling inflow.
Analysis of Heat Dissipation and Preheating Module for Vehicle Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
Authors: Zhou Shuwen , Zhao Yuemin , Gao Shangyuan
Published: September 2021

The ambient temperature has a great influence on the discharge and charging performance of a lithium battery, which may cause thermal runaway of the battery pack in extreme cases. In terms of the poor cooling effect caused by only using the cooling bottom plate for liquid cooling and the fact that the battery pack needs to be preheated before it can be used normally, a new cooling structure design was carried out, and a variety of cooling schemes and preheating schemes were proposed for analysis and comparison. The Star ccm+ simulation software was used to analyze and study their liquid cooling performance and preheating performance under different conditions. The best cooling scheme and preheating scheme were obtained by comparing the results of the simulation analysis. The simulation results show that the cooling performance of the cooling scheme using two vertical cooling plates and one cooling bottom plate is the best, and the preheating performance is best when the preheating liquid is used with a certain temperature flow through the preheating pipe of the battery pack for a period of time, and then the battery pack is discharged until the battery pack temperature reaches the working temperature range. The research results have reference value for the control of the ambient temperature of a vehicle lithium iron phosphate battery.
Woodland Management Practices in Bronze Age, Bruszczewo, Poland
Authors: Kłusek Marzena , Kneisel Jutta
Published: September 2021

The article presents a study of wood excavated from archaeological site in Poland (2100–1650 BC). The large amount of collected samples created a unique opportunity for research because the subfossil wood was in very good preservation state. This made it possible to carry out dendrotypological analysis. This is the first such study conducted for Early Bronze Age timber originating from Poland. The main goal of the study was to determine whether the presence of strong and abrupt reductions and releases of growth, observed within tree-ring sequences, is due to natural stand dynamics, results from the influence of extreme environmental factors or whether they should be linked to specific silvicultural practices already known in ancient times. Another purpose of the study was to determine the type of forest management techniques applied to the trees growing in Bruszczewo site. The research was conducted using the dendrochronological method. In addition to the measurements of growth-ring width, the development of earlywood and latewood zones, the proportion of sapwood and the presence of specific features of tree trunks were analysed. A detailed study allowed identifying the samples originating from coppiced and shredded trees. A characteristic feature of the trees subjected to these silvicultural practices is the presence of strong and abrupt reductions and releases of growth. Moreover, coppiced trees were specified by the large proportion of sapwood in the cross-section of the stem, reduced number of sapwood rings, small and numerous earlywood vessels, diminished earlywood vessels area. In turn, shredded trees distinguished themselves by a strong reduction in the earlywood width in the years following the shredding event. The research of archaeological wood from the ancient settlement proves that during the Early Bronze Age various forest management techniques were used in this site. These treatments were aimed at improving the quality and quantity of the raw material harvested from forest areas.
Semi-Analytical Solutions for Fuzzy Caputo–Fabrizio Fractional-Order Two-Dimensional Heat Equation
Authors: Sitthiwirattham Thanin , Arfan Muhammad , Shah Kamal , Zeb Anwar , Djilali Salih , Chasreechai Saowaluck
Published: September 2021

In the analysis in this article, we developed a scheme for the computation of a semi-analytical solution to a fuzzy fractional-order heat equation of two dimensions having some external diffusion source term. For this, we applied the Laplace transform along with decomposition techniques and the Adomian polynomial under the Caputo–Fabrizio fractional differential operator. Furthermore, for obtaining a semi-analytical series-type solution, the decomposition of the unknown quantity and its addition established the said solution. The obtained series solution was calculated and approached the approximate solution of the proposed equation. For the validation of our scheme, three different examples have been provided, and the solutions were calculated in fuzzy form. All the three illustrations simulated two different fractional orders between 0 and 1 for the upper and lower portions of the fuzzy solution. The said fractional operator is nonsingular and global due to the presence of the exponential function. It globalizes the dynamical behavior of the said equation, which is guaranteed for all types of fuzzy solution lying between 0 and 1 at any fractional order. The fuzziness is also included in the unknown quantity due to the fuzzy number providing the solution in fuzzy form, having upper and lower branches.
Adherence to Telemonitoring by Electronic Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Patients with Chronic Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wiegel Jim , Seppen Bart , van der Leeden Marike , van der Esch Martin , de Vries Ralph , Bos Wouter
Published: September 2021

Background: Effective telemonitoring is possible through repetitive collection of electronic patient-reported outcome measures (ePROMs) in patients with chronic diseases. Low adherence to telemonitoring may have a negative impact on the effectiveness, but it is unknown which factors are associated with adherence to telemonitoring by ePROMs. The objective was to identify factors associated with adherence to telemonitoring by ePROMs in patients with chronic diseases. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library up to 8 June 2021. Eligibility criteria were: (1) interventional and cohort studies, (2) patients with a chronic disease, (3) repetitive ePROMs being used for telemonitoring, and (4) the study quantitatively investigating factors associated with adherence to telemonitoring by ePROMs. The Cochrane risk of bias tool and the risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions were used to assess the risk of bias. An evidence synthesis was performed assigning to the results a strong, moderate, weak, inconclusive or an inconsistent level of evidence. Results: Five studies were included, one randomized controlled trial, two prospective uncontrolled studies and two retrospective cohort studies. A total of 15 factors potentially associated with adherence to telemonitoring by ePROMs were identified in the predominate studies of low quality. We found moderate-level evidence that sex is not associated with adherence. Some studies showed associations of the remaining factors with adherence, but the overall results were inconsistent or inconclusive. Conclusions: None of the 15 studied factors had conclusive evidence to be associated with adherence. Sex was, with moderate strength, not associated with adherence. The results were conflicting or indecisive, mainly due to the low number and low quality of studies. To optimize adherence to telemonitoring with ePROMs, mixed-method studies are needed.
Need for Orthodontic Treatment in Pupils Aged between 12 and 15 in the Valencian Region (Spain)
Authors: Iranzo-Cortés José Enrique , Montiel-Company José María , Bellot-Arcís Carlos , Almerich-Torres Teresa , Almerich-Silla José Manuel
Published: September 2021

The World Health Organization recommends carrying out periodic epidemiological studies in order to provide a basis for the evaluation of the state of health of the population at any given time; in doing so, action strategies can be established for the treatment of different pathologies. The objective of this study is to evaluate the need for orthodontic treatment in adolescents at school aged between 12 and 15 in the Spanish autonomous region known as Comunidad Valenciana (hereafter: Valencian Region). A cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 539 12-year-old schoolchildren and 460 15-year-olds, respectively, selected by cluster sampling and representative of the school-aged population of the Valencian Region, using the IOTN-DHC, IOTN-AC, and DAI indices. The need for specific orthodontic treatment according to the IOTN-DHC was 12.6% at 12 years and 7% at 15. For the IOTN-AC and DAI indices, the treatment needs were 4.3% and 0.9% at 12 years and 30.1% and 20.9% at the age of 15. These results were similar to those obtained in the previous study carried out on the same target population. There was no significant association between the need for treatment and gender or social class. We conclude that the need for orthodontic treatment presents values similar to those obtained in 2010.
Effects of Modified Clay on Phaeocystis globosa Growth and Colony Formation
Authors: Ren Xiangzheng , Yu Zhiming , Qiu Lixia , Cao Xihua , Song Xiuxian
Published: September 2021

Phaeocystis globosa is a globally distributed harmful algal blooms (HABs) species dominated by the colonial morphotype, which presents dramatic environmental hazards and poses a threat to human health. Modified clay (MC) can effectively flocculate HAB organisms and prevent their subsequent growth, but the effects of MC on colony-dominated P. globosa blooms remain uncertain. In this paper, a series of removal and incubation experiments were conducted to investigate the growth, colony formation and colony development of P. globosa cells after treatment with MC. The results show that the density of colonies was higher at MC concentrations below 0.2 g/L compared to those in the control, indicating the role of P. globosa colonies in resistance to environmental stress. Concentrations of MC greater than 0.2 g/L could reduce the density of solitary cells and colonies, and the colony diameter and extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) content were also decreased. The adsorption of MC to dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) and the cell damage caused by collision may be the main mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. These results elucidate that the treatment with an appropriate concentration of MC may provide an effective mitigation strategy for P. globosa blooms by preventing their growth and colony formation.
Would Older Adults Perform Preventive Practices in the Post-COVID-19 Era? A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Survey in China
Authors: Chen Meijun , Wang Xiaoqi , Yun Qingping , Lin Yuting , Wu Qingqing , Yang Qinghua , Wan Dezhi , Tian Dan , Chang Chun
Published: September 2021

During the post-COVID-19 era, preventive practices, such as washing hands and wearing a mask, remain key measures for controlling the spread of infection for older adults. This study investigated the status of preventive practices among older adults and identified the related influencing factors. Participants who were ≥60 years old were recruited nationwide. Data were collected through self-designed questionnaires, including demographic variables, knowledge, perceived vulnerability, response efficacy, anxiety and preventive practices. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were performed. Hierarchical logistic regression was conducted to determine the predictors. A total of 2996 participants completed this study. Of them, 2358 (78.7%) participants reported washing hands regularly in the last two weeks, and 1699 (56.7%) always wore masks outside this year. Knowledge (hand washing: OR = 1.09, p < 0.01; mask wearing: OR = 1.17, p < 0.01) and response efficacy (hand washing: OR = 1.61, p < 0.01; mask wearing: OR = 1.70, p < 0.01) were positively associated with preventive practices, whereas perceived vulnerability had a negative effect (hand washing: OR = 0.54, p < 0.01; mask wearing: OR = 0.72, p < 0.01). Knowledge, response efficacy and perceived vulnerability were found to be significant predictors of the preventive practice among older adults in the post-COVID-19 era. This study provides new insights into preventive suggestions after the peak of the pandemic and also has significant implications in improving the life quality of older adults.
Sleep Health Characteristics among Adults Who Attempted Weight Loss in the Past Year: NHANES 2017–2018
Authors: Hawkins Marquis S. , Levine Michele D. , Buysse Daniel J. , Abebe Kaleab Z. , Hsiao Wei-Hsin , McTigue Kathleen M. , Davis Esa M.
Published: September 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to characterize sleep health in adults who attempted weight loss in the prior year. Methods: We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017–2018 exam cycle. We included 4837 US adults who did (n = 1919) or did not (n = 2918) attempt weight loss in the past year. Participants self-reported their sleep regularity, satisfaction, sleepiness, timing, and duration, which we defined as “good” based on the prior literature. We characterized sleep health by weight loss attempts status, current BMI and weight change among participants who attempted weight loss. Results: On average, participants reported good sleep health in 3.21 ± 1.14 out of the five sleep domains. A total of 13% of participants had good sleep health in all five domains. The prevalence of sleep regularity (52%) was lowest, and the prevalence of infrequent sleepiness was highest (72%), relative to other sleep domains. In models adjusting for BMI, sleep health was similar in participants who did and did not attempt weight loss. Among adults who attempted weight loss, good sleep health was inversely associated with current BMI and self-reported weight change. Discussion: This study’s findings highlight the importance of considering sleep health when engaging with adults attempting weight loss.
A Pilot Study of a Sensor Enhanced Activity Management System for Promoting Home Rehabilitation Exercise Performed during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Therapist Experience, Reimbursement, and Recommendations for Implementation
Authors: Swanson Veronica A. , Chan Vicky , Cruz-Coble Betsaida , Alcantara Celeste M. , Scott Douglas , Jones Mike , Zondervan Daniel K. , Khan Naveen , Ichimura Jan , Reinkensmeyer David J.
Published: September 2021

Adherence to home exercise programs (HEPs) during physical rehabilitation is usually unmonitored and is thought to be low from self-reports. This article describes exploratory implementation of a Sensor Enhanced Activity Management (SEAM) system that combines HEP management software with a movement sensor for monitoring and motivating HEP adherence. The article also presents results from attempting to gain reimbursement for home use of the system with therapist oversight using Remote Physiologic Monitoring (RPM) codes. Four therapists used the system in their regular practice during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therapists filled out surveys, kept notes, and participated in interviews. Billing and reimbursement data were obtained from the treatment facility. Exercise data from the SEAM system were used to understand HEP adherence. Patients were active for a mean of 40% (26% SD) of prescribed days and completed a mean of 25% (25% SD) of prescribed exercises. The therapists billed 23 RPM codes (USD 2353), and payers reimbursed eight of those instances (USD 649.21). The therapists reported that remote monitoring and the use of a physical movement sensor was motivating to their patients and increased adherence. Sustained technical support for therapists will likely improve implementation of new remote monitoring and treatment systems. RPM codes may enable reimbursement for review and program management activities, but, despite COVID-19 CMS waivers, organizations may have more success if these services are billed under supervision of a physician.
The Legacy of the Idrija Mine Twenty-Five Years after Closing: Is Mercury in the Water Column of the Gulf of Trieste Still an Environmental Issue?
Authors: Pavoni Elena , Petranich Elisa , Signore Sergio , Fontolan Giorgio , Covelli Stefano
Published: September 2021

Mercury (Hg) contamination in the Gulf of Trieste (northern Adriatic Sea) due to mining activity in Idrija (Slovenia) still represents an issue of environmental concern. The Isonzo/Soča River’s freshwater inputs have been identified as the main source of Hg into the Gulf, especially following periods of medium-high discharge. This research aims to evaluate the occurrence and distribution of dissolved (DHg) and particulate (PHg) Hg along the water column in the northernmost sector of the Gulf, a shallow and sheltered embayment suitable for the accumulation of fine sediments. Sediment and water samples were collected under unperturbed and perturbed environmental conditions induced by natural and anthropogenic factors. Mercury in the sediments (0.77–6.39 µg g−1) and its relationship to grain size were found to be consistent with previous research focused on the entire Gulf, testifying to the common origin of the sediment. Results showed a notable variability of DHg (<LOD–149 ng L−1) and PHg (0.39–12.5 ng L−1) depending on the interaction between riverine and marine hydrological conditions. Mercury was found to be mainly partitioned in the suspended particles, especially following periods of high discharge, thus confirming the crucial role of the river inputs in regulating PHg distribution in the Gulf.
Experimental Study on the Evaluation and Influencing Factors on Individual’s Emergency Escape Capability in Subway Fire
Authors: Chen Na , Zhao Ming , Gao Kun , Zhao Jun
Published: September 2021

Studying an individual’s emergency escape capability and its influencing factors is of great practical significance for evacuation and escape in subway emergencies. Taking Zhengzhou Zijing Mountain Subway station as the prototype, and using VR technology, a virtual subway fire escape scene was built. Combined with the total escape time, the total contact time with fire, and the total contact time with smoke, it proposed a calculation formula on emergency escape capability. A total of 34 participants with equal gender distribution were recruited to carry out the virtual subway fire escape experiment, and participants’ physiological data (heart rate variability, skin conductance) were real-time recorded by ErgoLAB V3.0 throughout the whole experiment. The emergency escape capability of each participant was evaluated quantitatively, and the related influencing factors were analyzed. The results show that for the age ranges (19–22 years old) in the experiment, the emergency escape capability of women is significantly lower than that of men (p < 0.05); although there is no significance in emergency escape capability in DISC personality types (p > 0.05), the mean emergency escape capability of people with influence personality type is the worst, and that of people with compliance type is the best; during virtual fire escape vs. baseline, Mean_SC and Mean_HR both increased very significantly (all p < 0.01), and participants were under stress during their virtual fire escape. There is a significant negative correlation between emergency escape capability and LF_increase_rate (p < 0.05), and a remarkably significant negative correlation between emergency escape capability and LF/HF_increase_rate (p < 0.01); the greater the increase rate of LF or LF/HF, the smaller the emergency escape capability, with excessive stress probably not being conducive to emergency escape. There is a very significant negative correlation between an individual’s emergency escape capability and the degree of familiarity with the Zijing Mountain subway station (p < 0.01). The findings provide references and suggestions on the emergency management and emergency evacuation for government and subway departments.
Awareness Related to Cardiometabolic Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study in Southern Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Chau Minh , Santoso Cornelia Melinda Adi , Vu Duyen Thi Huong , Szőllősi Gergő , Bata Róbert , Zsuga Judit , Nagy Attila Csaba
Published: September 2021

Background: the prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs), such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension, is increasing rapidly in developing countries. This study aims to assess the awareness of CMD among a selected population in Vietnam. Method: a cross-sectional random sample of 402 Vietnamese citizens in two districts (Thu Duc and 12th district) in Ho Chi Minh City were interviewed. Data on knowledge, attitude, and preventive behavior (KAB) of the two conditions were collected through an interview-based questionnaire. Results: the mean (± SD) age was 47.75 (± 15.61) years, and around 60.2% were female. Multiple logistic regression was performed to explore the association of sociodemographic factors, disease status, and awareness of the CMD. Females showed better awareness than males (OR = 3.89 (1.28–11.78)), and those with T2DM and hypertension had a significantly better awareness (OR = 8.33 (2.44–28.37)) than those without CMD. Conclusion: the awareness of CMD in our sample was poor. An extensive effort to increase awareness of CMD prevention is needed. Future studies and interventions can be developed more efficiently by targeting the right population.
Outpatient Assessment of Mechanical Load, Heat Strain and Dehydration as Causes of Transitional Acute Kidney Injury in Endurance Trail Runners
Authors: Rojas-Valverde Daniel , Martínez-Guardado Ismael , Sánchez-Ureña Braulio , Timón Rafael , Scheer Volker , Pino-Ortega José , Olcina Guillermo
Published: September 2021

Background: This study aimed to globally assess heat strain, dehydration, and mechanical load as acute kidney injury (AKI) indicators in amateur endurance trail athletes during a 35.3 km run. Methods: Thirty amateur experienced trail runners completed an endurance trail run (total positive ascend 1815 m). The following assessments were performed at four measurement time points (pre-, during, immediately post [-post0h], and after 24 h of the finish of the run [-post24h]): serum test (creatinine, blood ureic nitrogen, albumin, creatine kinase, blood ureic nitrogen: creatinine ratio, creatinine clearance, and glomerular filtration rate), mechanical load (impacts and Player Load), heat strain and dehydration (hematocrit, urine solids, body weight and urine specific gravity), pain and exertion perception (rate of perceived exertion, lumbar and bipodal, and one-leg squat pain), and urinalysis (pH, protein, glucose, erythrocytes, and urine specific gravity). Results: There were pre vs. post0h changes in all serum biomarkers (F = 5.4–34.45, p < 0.01). The change in these biomarkers correlated with an increase in mechanical load indicators (r = 0.47–59, p < 0.05). A total of 40% and 23.4% of participants presented proteinuria and hematuria, respectively. Pain and perceived exertion increased significantly due to effort made during the endurance trail running (F = 4.2–176.4, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Endurance trail running may lead to an increase in blood and urine indicators of transitional AKI. The difference in blood and urine markers was significantly related to the mechanical load during running, suggesting potential kidney overload and cumulative mechanical load.
Specific Incorporation of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids into the sn-2 Position of Phosphatidylglycerol Accelerates Photodamage to Photosystem II under Strong Light
Authors: Jimbo Haruhiko , Yuasa Koki , Takagi Kensuke , Hirashima Takashi , Keta Sumie , Aichi Makiko , Wada Hajime
Published: September 2021

Free fatty acids (FFAs) are generated by the reaction of lipases with membrane lipids. Generated polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) containing more than two double bonds have toxic effects in photosynthetic organisms. In the present study, we examined the effect of exogenous FFAs in the growth medium on the activity of photosystem II (PSII) under strong light in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 (Synechocystis). PUFAs but not monounsaturated fatty acids accelerated the rate of photodamage to PSII by inactivating electron transfer at the oxygen-evolving complex. Moreover, supplemented PUFAs were specifically incorporated into the sn-2 position of phosphatidylglycerol (PG), which usually contains C16 fatty acids at the sn-2 position in Synechocystis cells. The disruption of the gene for an acyl-ACP synthetase reduced the effect of PUFAs on the photoinhibition of PSII. Thus, the specific incorporation of PUFAs into PG molecules requires acyl-ACP synthetase and leads to an unstable PSII, thereby accelerating photodamage to PSII. Our results are a breakthrough into elucidating the molecular mechanism of the toxicity of PUFAs to photosynthetic organisms.