bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Order Deterministic Sensitivity Analysis and Uncertainty Quantification: Review and New Developments
Authors: Cacuci Dan Gabriel
Published: October 2021

This work reviews the state-of-the-art methodologies for the deterministic sensitivity analysis of nonlinear systems and deterministic quantification of uncertainties induced in model responses by uncertainties in the model parameters. The need for computing high-order sensitivities is underscored by presenting an analytically solvable model of neutron scattering in a hydrogenous medium, for which all of the response’s relative sensitivities have the same absolute value of unity. It is shown that the wider the distribution of model parameters, the higher the order of sensitivities needed to achieve a desired level of accuracy in representing the response and in computing the response’s expectation, variance, skewness and kurtosis. This work also presents new mathematical expressions that extend to the sixth-order of the current state-of-the-art fourth-order formulas for computing fourth-order correlations among computed model response and model parameters. Another novelty presented in this work is the mathematical framework of the 3rd-Order Comprehensive Adjoint Sensitivity Analysis Methodology for Nonlinear Systems (3rd-CASAM-N), which enables the most efficient computation of the exact expressions of the 1st-, 2nd- and 3rd-order functional derivatives (“sensitivities”) of a model’s response to the underlying model parameters, including imprecisely known initial, boundary and/or interface conditions. The 2nd- and 3rd-level adjoint functions are computed using the same forward and adjoint computer solvers as used for solving the original forward and adjoint systems. Comparisons between the CPU times are also presented for an OECD/NEA reactor physics benchmark, highlighting the fact that finite-difference schemes would not only provide approximate values for the respective sensitivities (in contradistinction to the 3rd-CASAM-N, which provides exact expressions for the sensitivities) but would simply be unfeasible for computing sensitivities of an order higher than first-order. Ongoing work will generalize the 3rd-CASAM-N to a higher order while aiming to overcome the curse of dimensionality.
Simulation Model of Airport Security Lanes with Power Consumption Estimation
Authors: Kierzkowski Artur , Kisiel Tomasz , Uchroński Piotr
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this paper was to develop a simulation model that allows simultaneous analysis of airport screening lane performance and power consumption per passenger served. These two issues have not yet been considered simultaneously in the scientific literature. So far, the focus has been placed on process performance. However, this paper shows, by performing an empirical study and applying the proposed model, that it is important to consider these two issues simultaneously. This will allow for the sustainable development of air transport. As a case study, three system configurations for single, dual and single fast screening lanes were analyzed. For each configuration, 3 different types of X-ray devices were checked, and the results were compared. The results showed that for example calculations with 2 million passengers handled per year, the gains could be as high as 4614 kWh/year. This article therefore shows that it is important to manage the process with power consumption in mind.
Proportional-Resonant Controller Structure with Finite Gain for Three-Phase Grid-Tied Converters
Authors: Nowak Marek , Binkowski Tomasz , Piróg Stanisław
Published: October 2021

The paper presents the study of a three-phase system coupling a DC power source to a power grid. This study, based on an FPGA, implements a real-time control system and digital models of the power circuit. The proposed proportional–resonant (P+R) controller with a modified structure was part of the system, which can be used as an alternative controller to traditional ones, e.g., in photovoltaic systems. Due to difficulties in implementing resonant controllers, a P+R with a new structure using a PI controller was elaborated. With an appropriate approach to the generation of phase current patterns, it is possible to set the reactive current and, thus, compensate for the reactive power. The operation of the system for typical operating conditions (e.g., system startup, change in preset load) was characterized and compared with a classical solution using a PI controller.
Influence of Operation Conditions on Temperature Hazard of Lithium-Iron-Phosphate (LiFePO4) Cells
Authors: Kurpiel Wojciech , Polnik Bartosz , Orzech Łukasz , Lesiak Krzysztof , Miedziński Bogdan , Habrych Marcin , Debita Grzegorz , Zamłyńska Monika , Falkowski-Gilski Przemysław
Published: October 2021

The article presents and discusses the results of research on hazard, especially temperature, for selected lithium-ion-phosphate cells operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations but used under onerous mining conditions. This applies to the performance of cells in battery sets without the application of any management system (BMS). On the basis of the obtained test results, first of all, the influence of the value of the charging current of cells and the ambient temperature for both free and deteriorated heat exchange, appropriate conclusions and practical recommendations were formulated. This applies especially to threats in the case of random, cyclic, minor overloading, and discharging of the cells.
New Combustion Modelling Approach for Methane-Hydrogen Fueled Engines Using Machine Learning and Engine Virtualization
Authors: Molina Santiago , Novella Ricardo , Gomez-Soriano Josep , Olcina-Girona Miguel
Published: October 2021

The achievement of a carbon-free emissions economy is one of the main goals to reduce climate change and its negative effects. Scientists and technological improvements have followed this trend, improving efficiency, and reducing carbon and other compounds that foment climate change. Since the main contributor of these emissions is transportation, detaching this sector from fossil fuels is a necessary step towards an environmentally friendly future. Therefore, an evaluation of alternative fuels will be needed to find a suitable replacement for traditional fossil-based fuels. In this scenario, hydrogen appears as a possible solution. However, the existence of the drawbacks associated with the application of H2-ICE redirects the solution to dual-fuel strategies, which consist of mixing different fuels, to reduce negative aspects of their separate use while enhancing the benefits. In this work, a new combustion modelling approach based on machine learning (ML) modeling is proposed for predicting the burning rate of different mixtures of methane (CH4) and hydrogen (H2). Laminar flame speed calculations have been performed to train the ML model, finding a faster way to obtain good results in comparison with actual models applied to SI engines in the virtual engine model framework.
Integrated Design of a Custom Steering System in Cars and Verification of Its Correct Functioning
Authors: Choromański Włodzimierz , Grabarek Iwona , Kozłowski Maciej
Published: October 2021

The subject of this article is the design of a nonstandard steering system in cars. The applied methodology takes into account universal design, ensuring the greatest possible adaptation of the steering system to potential users, and at the same time, thanks to the specific nature of the designed steering device, it also assumes a special approach allowing for individual adjustment of the steering system to the needs and limitations of drivers with lower-limb disabilities. It is implemented through the “custom design” methodology. This article presents the impact of the design features of the multifunction steering wheel on the correctness of driving, as well as the level of load on selected muscles of the upper limbs responsible for operating the steering wheel. The tests were carried out on a dynamic simulator of a motor vehicle using the electromyography (EMG) technique, which enables the measurement of muscle load. A systemic approach to training and verifying the skills of drivers using new HMI solutions is proposed.
A Review on Drive Train Technologies for Passenger Electric Vehicles
Authors: Wahid Muhammad , Budiman Bentang , Joelianto Endra , Aziz Muhammad
Published: October 2021

Transportation is the second-largest sector contributing to greenhouse gas emissions due to CO2 gas generation from the combustion of fossil fuels. Electric vehicles (EVs) are believed to be a great solution to overcome this issue. EVs can reduce CO2 emissions because the vehicles use an electric motor as a propeller instead of an internal combustion engine. Combined with sustainable energy resources, EVs may become zero-emission transportation. This paper presents an overview of the EV drive train types, including their architecture with the benefits and drawbacks of each type. The aim is to summarize the recent progress of EV technology that always continues to be updated. Furthermore, a comparative investigation on energy density and efficiency, specific energy and power, cost, and application is carried out for batteries as the main energy storage. This discussion provides an understanding of the current development of battery technology, especially the batteries used in EVs. Moreover, the electric motor efficiency, power density, fault tolerance, reliability, and cost are also presented, including the most effective electric motor to use in EVs. The challenges and opportunities of EV deployment in the future are then discussed comprehensively. The government regulation for EVs is still a major non-technical challenge, whereas the charging time and battery performance are the challenges for the technical aspect.
Heat Transfer Effect on Micro Gas Turbine Performance for Solar Power Applications
Authors: Khader Mahmoud A. , Ghavami Mohsen , Al-Zaili Jafar , Sayma Abdulnaser I.
Published: October 2021

This paper presents an experimentally validated computational study of heat transfer within a compact recuperated Brayton cycle microturbine. Compact microturbine designs are necessary for certain applications, such as solar dish concentrated power systems, to ensure a robust rotodynamic behaviour over the wide operating envelope. This study aims at studying the heat transfer within a 6 kWe micro gas turbine to provide a better understanding of the effect of heat transfer on its components’ performance. This paper also investigates the effect of thermal losses on the gas turbine performance as a part of a solar dish micro gas turbine system and its implications on increasing the size and the cost of such system. Steady-state conjugate heat transfer analyses were performed at different speeds and expansion ratios to include a wide range of operating conditions. The analyses were extended to examine the effects of insulating the microturbine on its thermodynamic cycle efficiency and rated power output. The results show that insulating the microturbine reduces the thermal losses from the turbine side by approximately 11% without affecting the compressor’s performance. Nonetheless, the heat losses still impose a significant impact on the microturbine performance, where these losses lead to an efficiency drop of 7.1% and a net output power drop of 6.6% at the design point conditions.
Anaerobic Digestion Process Control Using a Data-Driven Internal Model Control Method
Authors: Condrachi Larisa , Vilanova Ramón , Meneses Montse , Barbu Marian
Published: October 2021

Anaerobic digestion processes offer the possibility for wastewater treatment while obtaining a benefit through the obtained biogas. This paper aims to continue the effort to adopt data-driven control methods in the case of anaerobic digestion processes. The paper proposes a data-based Internal Model Control approach applied to an anaerobic digestion process. The paper deals extensively with the issue of choosing the reference model and proposing an engineering approach to this issue. The paper also addresses the issue of verifying robust stability, a very important aspect considering the uncertainties that characterize bioprocesses in general. The approach proposed in the paper is validated through a numerical simulation using the Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1. During the validation of the proposed control solution, the main operating conditions were analyzed, such as the setpoint tracking performance, the rejection of disturbance generated by variations in the influent concentration, and the effect of the measurement noise on the controlled variable.
Performance Analysis of a Solar Cooling System with Equal and Unequal Adsorption/Desorption Operating Time
Authors: Lattieff Farkad A. , Atiya Mohammed A. , Mahdi Jasim M. , Majdi Hasan Sh. , Talebizadehsardari Pouyan , Yaïci Wahiba
Published: October 2021

In solar-thermal adsorption/desorption processes, it is not always possible to preserve equal operating times for the adsorption/desorption modes due to the fluctuating supply nature of the source which largely affects the system’s operating conditions. This paper seeks to examine the impact of adopting unequal adsorption/desorption times on the entire cooling performance of solar adsorption systems. A cooling system with silica gel–water as adsorbent-adsorbate pair has been built and tested under the climatic condition of Iraq. A mathematical model has been established to predict the system performance, and the results are successfully validated via the experimental findings. The results show that, the system can be operational at the unequal adsorption/desorption times. The performance of the system with equal time is almost twice that of the unequal one. The roles of adsorption velocity, adsorption capacity, overall heat transfer coefficient, and the performance of the cooling system are also evaluated.
Physical De-Icing Techniques for Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Okulov Valery , Kabardin Ivan , Mukhin Dmitry , Stepanov Konstantin , Okulova Nastasia
Published: October 2021

The review reflects physical solutions for de-icing, one of the main problems that impedes the efficient use of wind turbines for autonomous energy resources in cold regions. This topic is currently very relevant for ensuring the dynamic development of wind energy in the Arctic. The review discusses an effective anti-icing strategy for wind turbine blades, including various passive and active physical de-icing techniques using superhydrophobic coatings, thermal heaters, ultrasonic and vibration devices, operating control to determine the optimal methods and their combinations. After a brief description of the active methods, the energy consumption required for their realization is estimated. Passive methods do not involve extra costs, so the review focuses on the most promising solutions with superhydrophobic coatings. Among them, special attention is paid to plastic coatings with a lithographic method of applying micro and nanostructures. This review is of interest to researchers who develop new effective solutions for protection against icing, in particular, when choosing systems for protecting wind turbines.
Experimental Investigation of the Heat Transfer Characteristics of Plate Heat Exchangers Using LiBr/Water as Working Fluid
Authors: Yong Junhyeok , Ham Junggyun , Kwon Ohkyung , Cho Honghyun
Published: October 2021

In this study, the heat exchange characteristics of water–LiBr solutions used as working fluid in a plate heat exchanger (PHE) were experimentally investigated at various concentrations. To analyze the heat transfer characteristics under LiBr/water conditions, a brazing type plate heat exchanger was installed, and the LiBr concentration on the high-temperature side was controlled at 56%, 58%, 60% and 60%. The results showed that the average heat transfer rate under water/water conditions was higher than that under LiBr/water conditions and the average heat transfer rate decreased as the LiBr concentration on the hot side increased. In addition, under both water/water and LiBr/water conditions, the average heat transfer rate and overall heat transfer coefficient increased as the mass flow rate of the working fluid on the hot side increased. When LiBr was used, the Reynolds number (Re) of LiBr on the hot side was more than nine times lower than that of water at the same mass flow rate owing to the influence of the increased viscosity. Based on the data obtained from the water/water and LiBr/water experiments, a correlation for predicting the Nusselt number (Nu) on the hot side in a wide range was developed.
Grid Forming Stator Flux Control of Doubly-Fed Induction Generator
Authors: Klaes Norbert , Pöschke Florian , Schulte Horst
Published: October 2021

The doubly fed induction generator is widely used in wind power applications. For stand-alone operation of this machine, the control of the stator flux with fixed voltage and frequency has been proposed. This paper extends the stator flux control of the doubly fed induction machine by droop mechanisms, which vary the setpoint of flux magnitude and frequency depending on active and reactive power. This gives the doubly fed induction generator system unknown grid supporting and grid forming performance. The validation of the proposed control scheme has been conducted on a 10kVA testbed system. The closed-loop behavior of the system has been proven to enable grid-tied and islanded operation with the same control structure. The system response to load changes and islanding events show no disruptive transients in both conditions.
Comparison of Two Energy Management System Strategies for Real-Time Operation of Isolated Hybrid Microgrids
Authors: Azuara-Grande Luis Santiago , Arnaltes Santiago , Alonso-Martinez Jaime , Rodriguez-Amenedo Jose Luis
Published: October 2021

The propagation of hybrid power systems (solar–diesel–battery) has led to the development of new energy management system (EMS) strategies for the effective management of all power generation technologies related to hybrid microgrids. This paper proposes two novel EMS strategies for isolated hybrid microgrids, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses using simulations. The proposed strategies are different from the EMS strategies reported thus far in the literature because the former enable the real-time operation of the hybrid microgrid, which always guarantees the correct operation of a microgrid. The priority EMS strategy works by assigning a priority order, while the optimal EMS strategy is based on an optimization criterion, which is set as the minimum marginal cost in this case. The results have been obtained using MATLAB/Simulink to verify and compare the effectiveness of the proposed strategies, through a dynamic microgrid model to simulate the conditions of a real-time operation. The differences in the EMS strategies as well as their individual strengths and weaknesses, are presented and discussed. The results show that the proposed EMS strategies can manage the system operation under different scenarios and help power system operator obtain the optimal operation schemes of the microgrid.
Shielding of Cosmic Radiation by Fibrous Materials
Authors: Blachowicz Tomasz , Ehrmann Andrea
Published: October 2021

Cosmic radiation belongs to the challenges engineers have to deal with when further developing space travel. Besides the severe risks for humans due to high-energy particles or waves, the impact of cosmic radiation on electronics and diverse materials cannot be neglected, even in microsatellites or other unmanned spacecraft. Here, we explain the different particles or waves found in cosmic radiation and their potential impact on biological and inanimate matter. We give an overview of fiber-based shielding materials, mostly applied in the form of composites, and explain why these materials can help shielding spaceships or satellites from cosmic radiation.
Health-Promoting Properties of Borage Seed Oil Fractionated by Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction
Authors: Casas-Cardoso Lourdes , Mantell Casimiro , Obregón Sara , Cejudo-Bastante Cristina , Alonso-Moraga Ángeles , de la Ossa Enrique J. Martínez , de Haro-Bailón Antonio
Published: October 2021

Borage (Borago officinalis L.) seed oil is an important source of γ–linolenic acid, which is normally used as a treatment against different pathologies. Since the fractionation of this interesting seed oil has many environmental, economic and biological benefits, two borage fractionation techniques after extraction with CO2 under supercritical conditions have been studied: precipitation in two cyclone separators and countercurrent extraction column. Both techniques have successfully collected free fatty acids in one fraction: (i) two separators set up in series obtained the highest concentration of free fatty acids in separator 2 at 90 bar/40 °C; (ii) when countercurrent extraction column was used, the acidity index of the raffinate stream was independent from the operating conditions (2.6 ± 0.5%). Furthermore, the composition of the fatty acids, as well as their antioxidant and cytotoxic activities, were determined. The profile of the fatty acids obtained by either of these two methods remained unaltered, so that the crude oil exhibited improved antioxidant and cytotoxic properties. All the extracts obtained in the two cyclone separators at the same pressure/temperature conditions displayed high tumouricidal activity against HL 60 promyelocytic leukaemia cells, even if the extracts at 50% concentration from separator 2 presented a lower inhibitory activity (IC50). The extracts from separator 2 at 90 bar/40 °C exhibited the highest anti-proliferative activity at low doses (IC50 of 0.3 μL/mL for the trypan blue exclusion test). To reach the lethal dose—IC50—with the product obtained through countercurrent column fractionation, a concentration of 2 μL/mL of crude borage oil raffinate was required.
A Portable, Cost-Effective and User-Friendly Instrument for Colorimetric Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Rapid Detection of Aflatoxin B1
Authors: Tang Wenzhi , Qi Yangchun , Li Zhonghong
Published: October 2021

Food analysis based on the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is simple, sensitive and rapid, but requires a costly colorimetric instrument. The aim of this work was to develop a portable, low-cost and user-friendly colorimetric instrument for colorimetric ELISA and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) detection. The principle of the developed instrument was employing a light-emitting diode to generate the signal light and using a light-dependent resistor to measure the signal light absorbed by the oxidized 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethyl benzidine. The absorption spectra revealed that the solution absorbed signal light more strongly after reaction with H2SO4, and blue light would be favorably absorbed. Evaluations on the stability and accuracy of the instrument and interference from ambient light showed that the fabricated instrument was stable, accurate, capable of quantitative detection and insensitive to ambient light changes. In addition, this instrument is user-friendly since it could calculate and report the final amount of AFB1 to the operator. Measurements of maize and peanuts showed that the instrument provided as accurate results as the professional equipment. With the low fabrication cost (about RMB 129 or USD 20), portability, and user-friendliness, this instrument presents attractive potential in the rapid detection of AFB1.
A New Approach to Studying Traditional Roof Behaviour in a Changing Climate—A Case Study from the Mediterranean Island of Malta
Authors: Cassar JoAnn , Galdies Charles , Muscat Azzopardi Elizabeth
Published: October 2021

The behaviour of traditional roofs affects issues relating to sustainability, zero-carbon targets, and Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. This paper discusses an innovative approach towards understanding the behaviour of porous, and other types, of roofs in Malta in relation to temperature and moisture characteristics, and to project this behaviour onto a changing climate, predicted to be hotter and drier. The new methodology is being trialled on four roof types, on historic buildings, the innovation being the use of data from co-temporal Earth Observations (EO) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), in conjunction with in-situ data. This research is helping to develop a new application for Remote Sensing in Cultural Heritage; results should enable recommendations for sustainable use of traditional roof-building techniques. The initial results show that the traditional roof has different (reflective and emissive) properties from the hybrid roof, that are being detected from space, complemented with UAV, hand-held thermal camera and in-situ measurements. These results are preliminary; satellite images for spring/early summer and mid-summer and the corresponding UAV images are expected to provide more conclusive information. These promising results should enable the proof-of-concept to progress onto a larger number and greater variety of roof types, even in other Mediterranean countries.
Assessing Income-Related Inequality on Health Service Utilization among Chinese Rural Migrant Workers with New Co-Operative Medical Scheme: A Multilevel Approach
Authors: Li Dan , Zhai Shaoguo , Zhang Jian , Yang Jinjuan , Wang Xiao
Published: October 2021

Background: Eliminating inequality in health service utilization is an explicit goal of China’s health system. Rural migrant workers with New Rural Cooperative Medical Insurance (NCMS) still face the dilemma of limited health service; however, there is a lack of analysis or measurement on the income-related inequality of health service utilization. Method: The nationally representative data of the China Labor-Force Dynamic Survey in 2016 were used for analysis. Multilevel regressions were used to obtain robust estimates and to account for various covariates associated with health service utilization of rural migrant workers with NCMS. The concentration index and its decomposition method were applied to quantify the income-related inequality of health service utilization of rural migrant workers. Result: The multilevel model analysis indicated that influencing factors of health service utilization were diversified, including gender, city service quality index, type of industry, the per capita annual income, marital status, health self-assessment, the community health index and the number of friends. The concentration indices of the total cost of inpatient and OOP cost of inpatient were 0.102 (95%CI: 0.031, 0.149), and the CI of OOP cost of inpatient was 0.094 (95%CI: 0.007, 0.119), respectively. The horizontal inequality indices of the total cost of inpatient and OOP cost of inpatient were 0.051 and 0.009, respectively. Conclusion: Our study presented a unique opportunity to examine the potential influence factors of health service utilization of rural migrant workers with NCMS, and highlighted that unequal health service utilization is evident among rural migrant workers with NCMS. This study provides important corroborative evidence to take full account of the contribution of each determinant to the inequality and health service needs among rural migrant workers with NCMS, in order to improve the basic medical insurance and social security systems—particularly for some marginal groups in China.
Prevalence of Locomotive Organ Impairment and Associated Factors among Middle-Aged and Older People in Nan Province, Thailand
Authors: Niwayama Marie , Sakisaka Kayako , Wongwatcharapaiboon Pongthep , Rattanachun Valika , Miyata Satoshi , Takahashi Kenzo
Published: October 2021

While locomotive organ impairment among older people is attracting worldwide attention, this issue has not yet been widely investigated in Thailand. This study aimed to measure locomotive organ impairment prevalence and identify the determinants of locomotive function decline among middle-aged and older people in Nan Province, Thailand. This cross-sectional study included anthropometric measurements, a two-step test to investigate locomotive function, and a structured questionnaire to obtain socio-demographic and related information. Logistic regression analysis and multiple regression analysis were used to identify the determinants of locomotive organ impairment. The study participants were aged 50–87 years old (n = 165), and 71.5% of them had begun experiencing declining locomotive function; < 6 years of school education (adjusted odds ratio: 4.46), body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 (AOR: 3.06), comorbidities (AOR: 2.55), and continuous walking for <15 min (AOR: 2.51) were identified as factors associated with locomotive organ impairment. Moreover, age, knee pain, anxiety about falling in daily life, and difficulty with simple tasks were identified as factors significantly associated with exacerbated locomotive organ impairment (p < 0.05). Appropriate interventions such as guidance or follow-up and recommendations for exercises are needed to prevent locomotive organ impairment and improve treatment.
Knowledge and Lifestyle Behaviors Related to COVID-19 Pandemic in People over 65 Years Old from Southern Italy
Authors: Gallè Francesca , Sabella Elita Anna , Roma Paolo , Ferracuti Stefano , Da Molin Giovanna , Diella Giusy , Montagna Maria Teresa , Orsi Giovanni Battista , Liguori Giorgio , Napoli Christian
Published: October 2021

Background: Control measures adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic had a considerable impact on human daily life and lifestyles. Adherence to the recommended measures is influenced by knowledge and attitudes towards the disease. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the level of knowledge regarding COVID-19, the related control measures, and lifestyle behaviors adopted during the pandemic in a sample of elderly Italian people. Methods: A web-based questionnaire investigating socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of COVID-19, the related preventive measures, and lifestyle changes that occurred during the pandemic, were distributed to ≥65 years old people living in South Italy. Results: A satisfactory level of knowledge about COVID-19 and the related control measures has been found in the enrolled sample. However, a decrease in physical activity, as well as worsening sleeping and dietary habits, were found in roughly 60% of participants. Females were impacted greater by these lifestyle changes. Conclusions: Participants in this study showed a good level of knowledge regarding COVID-19 and its prevention. Nevertheless, they reported an increase in unhealthy habits that may have important health consequences in the long term and should be addressed by public health interventions targeted at older people.
Feature Paper in Environmental Chemistry and Technology
Authors: Varrica Daniela
Published: October 2021

Attention to the environment and its problems has undergone unprecedented growth in recent years [...]
Medical, Health and Wellness Tourism Research—A Review of the Literature (1970–2020) and Research Agenda
Authors: Zhong Lina , Deng Baolin , Morrison Alastair M. , Coca-Stefaniak J. Andres , Yang Liyu
Published: October 2021

Medical, health and wellness tourism and travel represent a dynamic and rapidly growing multi-disciplinary economic activity and field of knowledge. This research responds to earlier calls to integrate research on travel medicine and tourism. It critically reviews the literature published on these topics over a 50-year period (1970 to 2020) using CiteSpace software. Some 802 articles were gathered and analyzed from major databases including the Web of Science and Scopus. Markets (demand and behavior), destinations (development and promotion), and development environments (policies and impacts) emerged as the main three research themes in medical-health-wellness tourism. Medical-health-wellness tourism will integrate with other care sectors and become more embedded in policy-making related to sustainable development, especially with regards to quality of life initiatives. A future research agenda for medical-health-tourism is discussed.
Effectiveness of Narrative Messaging Styles about the Social Determinants of Health and Health Inequities in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Churchill Emily , Shankardass Ketan , Perrella Andrea M.L. , Lofters Aisha , Quiñonez Carlos , Brooks Louise , Wilson Dana , Kirst Maritt
Published: October 2021

Health inequities are systemic, avoidable, and unjust differences in health between populations. These differences are often determined by social and structural factors, such as income and social status, employment and working conditions, or race/racism, which are referred to as the social determinants of health (SDOH). According to public opinion, health is considered to be largely determined by the choices and behaviours of individuals. However, evidence suggests that social and structural factors are the key determinants of health. There is likely a lack of public understanding of the role that social and structural factors play in determining health and producing health inequities. Public opinion and priorities can drive governmental action, so the aim of this work was to determine the most impactful way to increase knowledge and awareness about the social determinants of health (SDOH) and health inequities in the province of Ontario, Canada. A study to test the effectiveness of four different messaging styles about health inequities and the SDOH was conducted with a sample of 805 adult residents of Ontario. Findings show that messages highlighting the challenges faced by those experiencing the negative effects of the SDOH, while still acknowledging individual responsibility for health, were the most effective for eliciting an empathetic response from Ontarians. These findings can be used to inform public awareness campaigns focused on changing the current public narrative about the SDOH toward a more empathetic response, with the goal of increasing political will to enact policies to address health inequities in Ontario.
Factors Associated with Health-Related Quality of Life amongst Employees in a Malaysian Public University
Authors: Abdul Manaf Mohd Rizal , Mohammed Nawi Azmawati , Mohd Tauhid Noorlaili , Othman Hanita , Abdul Rahman Mohd Rizam , Mohd Yusoff Hanizah , Safian Nazarudin , Ng Pei Yuen , Abdul Manaf Zahara , Abdul Kadir Nor Ba’yah , Yanasegaran Kevina , Abdul Basir Siti Munirah , Ramakrishnappa Sowmya , Ariff Mohd Izhar , Ganasegeran Kurubaran
Published: October 2021

The current academic landscape has overwhelmed faculties and with demands to adopt tech-savvy teaching modes and accelerate scholarly works, administrative duties, and outreach programs. Such demands have deteriorated the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among university employees. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with HRQoL among university employees in a Malaysian public university. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 397 employees from the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) between April and June 2019. A self-administered questionnaire that consisted of socio-demographic items, risky health behaviors, health-related information, and validated scales for measuring employees’ physical inactivity, psychological states, and HRQoL was utilized. Descriptive and inferential statistics were calculated using SPSS version 23.0. Hierarchical multiple linear regression models were yielded to determine the factors associated with different domains of HRQoL. Mediation analysis was conducted using PROCESS MACRO (Model 4). Statistical significance was set to p < 0.05. Physical HRQoL scored the highest, while environmental HRQoL had the lowest score among the employees. Physical HRQoL was influenced by age, service duration, comorbid conditions, BMI, chronic diseases, and anxiety. Factors associated with psychological HRQoL were age, service duration, depression, and stress. Age, service duration, and chronic diseases affected employees’ social relationship HRQoL, while environmental HRQoL was associated with age, occupation type, chronic diseases, and depression. Socio-demographics, risky health behaviors, health profiles, and psychological attributes were significantly associated with employees’ HRQoL. Age was the only positively correlated factor across all HRQoL domains, while other factors deteriorated employees’ HRQoL.
Smoking Behaviors, Mental Health, and Risk Perceptions during the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic among Mexican Adult Smokers
Authors: Loud Emily E. , Gallegos-Carrillo Katia , Barrientos-Gutiérrez Inti , Arillo-Santillán Edna , Lambert Victoria C. , Zavala-Arciniega Luis , Thrasher James F.
Published: October 2021

Mexico is one of the countries most affected by COVID-19. Studies have found that smoking behaviors have been impacted by the pandemic as well; however, results have varied across studies, and it remains unclear what is causing the changes. This study of an open cohort of smokers recruited from a consumer panel (n = 2753) examined changes in cigarettes per day (CPD), daily vs. non-daily smoking, recent quit attempts, perceived stress, depression, and perceived severity of COVID-19 at two points during the pandemic: March and July 2020. Differences in CPD between waves were estimated with Poisson regression using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Differences in perceived stress were estimated with linear regression using GEE, and differences in recent quit attempts, depression, and perceived severity of COVID-19 were estimated using separate logistic regression GEE models. Rates of depression were higher in July compared to March (AOR = 1.55, 95% C.I. 1.31–1.85), and the likelihood of recent quit attempt was lower in July compared to March (AOR = 0.85, 95% C.I. 0.75–0.98). There was no statistically significant change in CPD, daily smoking, or perceived stress. Perceived COVID-19 severity for oneself increased significantly (AOR: 1.24, 95% C.I. 1.02–1.52); however, the perceived COVID-19 severity for smokers remained constant. Our study suggests that as the COVID-19 pandemic expanded in Mexico, smoking frequency remained stable, and quit attempts decreased, even as adult smokers increasingly perceived infection with COVID-19 for themselves as severe. These results can aid in the development of health communication strategies to educate smokers about their risk for COVID-19, potentially capitalizing on concerns that stem from this syndemic of communicable and smoking-related non-communicable disease.
Public Perception and Reception of Robotic Applications in Public Health Emergencies Based on a Questionnaire Survey Conducted during COVID-19
Authors: Jiang Hui , Cheng Lin
Published: October 2021

Various intelligent technologies have been applied during COVID-19, which has become a worldwide public health emergency and brought significant challenges to the medical systems around the world. Notably, the application of robots has played a role in hospitals, quarantine facilities and public spaces and has attracted much attention from the media and the public. This study is based on a questionnaire survey on the perception and reception of robots used for medical care in the pandemic among the Chinese population. A total of 1667 people participated in the survey, 93.6% of respondents were pursuing or had completed a bachelor, master or even doctorate degree. The results show that Chinese people generally held positive attitudes towards “anti-pandemic robots” and affirmed their contribution to reducing the burden of medical care and virus transmission. A few respondents were concerned about the issues of robots replacing humans and it was apparent that their ethical views on robots were not completely consistent across their demographics (e.g., age, industry). Nevertheless, most respondents tended to be optimistic about robot applications and dialectical about the ethical issues involved. This is related to the prominent role robots played during the pandemic, the Chinese public’s expectations of new technologies and technology-friendly public opinion in China. Exploring the perception and reception of anti-pandemic robots in different countries or cultures is important because it can shed some light on the future applications of robots, especially in the field of infectious disease control.
Transcriptomic Analyses Reveal 2 and 4 Family Members of Cytochromes P450 (CYP) Involved in LPS Inflammatory Response in Pharynx of Ciona robusta
Authors: Vizzini Aiti , Bonura Angela , La Paglia Laura , Fiannaca Antonino , La Rosa Massimo , Urso Alfonso , Mauro Manuela , Vazzana Mirella , Arizza Vincenzo
Published: October 2021

Cytochromes P450 (CYP) are enzymes responsible for the biotransformation of most endogenous and exogenous agents. The expression of each CYP is influenced by a unique combination of mechanisms and factors including genetic polymorphisms, induction by xenobiotics, and regulation by cytokines and hormones. In recent years, Ciona robusta, one of the closest living relatives of vertebrates, has become a model in various fields of biology, in particular for studying inflammatory response. Using an in vivo LPS exposure strategy, next-generation sequencing (NGS) and qRT-PCR combined with bioinformatics and in silico analyses, compared whole pharynx transcripts from naïve and LPS-exposed C. robusta, and we provide the first view of cytochrome genes expression and miRNA regulation in the inflammatory response induced by LPS in a hematopoietic organ. In C. robusta, cytochromes belonging to 2B,2C, 2J, 2U, 4B and 4F subfamilies were deregulated and miRNA network interactions suggest that different conserved and species-specific miRNAs are involved in post-transcriptional regulation of cytochrome genes and that there could be an interplay between specific miRNAs regulating both inflammation and cytochrome molecules in the inflammatory response in C. robusta.
Transcriptional Regulation of GDF15 by EGR1 Promotes Head and Neck Cancer Progression through a Positive Feedback Loop
Authors: Jin Yanli , Jung Seung-Nam , Lim Mi Ae , Oh Chan , Piao Yudan , Kim Hae Jong , Liu Lihua , Kang Yea Eun , Chang Jae Won , Won Ho-Ryun , Song Kunho , Koo Bon Seok
Published: October 2021

Growth and differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), a divergent member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, has been reported to be overexpressed in different kinds of cancer types. However, the function and mechanism of GDF15 in head and neck cancer (HNC) remains unclear. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data show that the expression of GDF15 is significantly associated with tumor AJCC stage, lymph vascular invasion and tumor grade in HNC. In this study, we confirmed that knockdown of GDF15 attenuated: cell proliferation, migration and invasion via regulation of EMT through a canonical pathway; SMAD2/3 and noncanonical pathways; PI3K/AKT and MEK/ERK in HNC cell lines. Furthermore, we found that early growth response 1 (EGR1) was a transcription factor of GDF15. Interestingly, we also demonstrated that GDF15 could regulate the expression of EGR1, which meant a positive feedback loop occurred between these two factors. Moreover, combined inhibition of both GDF15 and EGR1 in a HNC mouse xenograft model showed significantly decreased tumor volume compared to inhibition of EGR1 or GDF15 alone. Our study showed that the GDF15–EGR1 signaling axis may be a good target in HNC patients.
The Amyloid Forming Peptides Islet Amyloid Polypeptide and Amyloid β Interact at the Molecular Level
Authors: Wang Ye , Westermark Gunilla T.
Published: October 2021

Epidemiological studies support a connection between the two common disorders, type-2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Both conditions have local amyloid formation in their pathogenesis, and cross-seeding between islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) and amyloid β (Aβ) could constitute the link. The bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assay was used to investigate the occurrence of heterologous interactions between IAPP and Aβ and to compare the potential toxic effects of IAPP/Aβ, IAPP/IAPP, and Aβ/Aβ expression in living cells. Microscopy was used to confirm the fluorescence and determine the lysosomal, mitochondrial areas and mitochondrial membrane potential, and a FACS analysis was used to determine ROS production and the role for autophagy. Drosophila melanogaster expressing IAPP and Aβ was used to study their co-deposition and effects on longevity. We showed that the co-expression of IAPP and Aβ resulted in fluorophore reconstitution to the same extent as determined for homologous IAPP/IAPP or Aβ/Aβ expression. The BiFC(+)/BiFC(−) ratio of lysosomal area calculations increased in transfected cells independent of the vector combinations, while only Aβ/Aβ expression increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Expression combinations containing Aβ were necessary for the formation of a congophilic amyloid. In Drosophila melanogaster expressing IAPP/Aβ, co-deposition of the amyloid-forming peptides caused reduced longevity. The BiFC results confirmed a heterologous interaction between IAPP and Aβ, while co-deposits in the brain of Drosophila suggest mixed amyloid aggregates.
HPV Lesions and Other Issues in the Oral Cavity Treatment and Removal without Pain
Authors: El Moussaoui Salima , Mallandrich Mireia , Garrós Núria , Calpena Ana Cristina , Rodríguez Lagunas Maria José , Fernández-Campos Francisco
Published: October 2021

Due to different oral and dental conditions, oral mucosa lesions such as those caused by the human papilloma virus and temporomandibular joint pathologies often have to be treated by surgical, ablative or extractive procedures. The treatment and control of pain and inflammation during these procedures is essential to guarantee the patient’s well-being. For the foregoing reason, a hydrogel based on sodium alginate and hyaluronic acid containing 2% of ketorolac tromethamine has been developed. We characterized it physically, mechanically and morphologically. The rheological results suggest that the formulation can be easily and gently applied. Ex vivo permeation studies show that Ketorolac Tromethamine is able to penetrate through the buccal and sublingual mucosae, in addition to being retained in the mucosae’s structure. Through an in vitro test, we were able to evaluate the role that saliva plays in the bioavailability of the drug, observing that more than half of the applied dose is eliminated in an hour. The histological and cytotoxic studies performed on pigs in vivo showed the excellent safety profile of the formulation, as well as its high tolerability. In parallel, a biomimetic artificial membrane (PermeaPad®) was evaluated, and it showed a high degree of correlation with the oral and sublingual mucosa.
Protein Cargo of Salivary Small Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Functional Signature of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Fontana Simona , Mauceri Rodolfo , Novara Maria Eugenia , Alessandro Riccardo , Campisi Giuseppina
Published: October 2021

The early diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is still an investigative challenge. Saliva has been proposed as an ideal diagnostic medium for biomarker detection by mean of liquid biopsy technique. The aim of this pilot study was to apply proteomic and bioinformatic strategies to determine the potential use of saliva small extracellular vesicles (S/SEVs) as a potential tumor biomarker source. Among the twenty-three enrolled patients, 5 were free from diseases (OSCC_FREE), 6 were with OSCC without lymph node metastasis (OSCC_NLNM), and 12 were with OSCC and lymph node metastasis (OSCC_LNM). The S/SEVs from patients of each group were pooled and properly characterized before performing their quantitative proteome comparison based on the SWATH_MS (Sequential Window Acquisition of all Theoretical Mass Spectra) method. The analysis resulted in quantitative information for 365 proteins differentially characterizing the S/SEVs of analyzed clinical conditions. Bioinformatic analysis of the proteomic data highlighted that each S/SEV group was associated with a specific cluster of enriched functional network terms. Our results highlighted that protein cargo of salivary small extracellular vesicles defines a functional signature, thus having potential value as novel predict biomarkers for OSCC.