bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Modeling of a Standalone DC-Microgrid for Off-Grid Schools in Rural Areas of Developing Countries
Authors: Aemro Yohannes Biru , Moura Pedro , de Almeida Aníbal T.
Published: December 2020

Energy access is critical for health, education and social welfare improvements. In countries like Ethiopia, with a low electrification rate and with the majority of the population located in rural areas, about 76% of primary schools do not have access to electricity. This limits the hours of classes and does not allow the use of basic or modern teaching resources. Off-grid solutions have emerged as potential cost-effective alternatives to electrify rural areas and schools, but the availability of off-grid appliances and the size of the system can lead to different solutions. Therefore, this study proposes a DC microgrid system to supply the electricity demand of a rural school located in Ethiopia, considering load estimation scenarios with standard and high-efficiency appliances. The simulation results show that the designed DC microgrid is a valid option to electrify the rural school under each load and generation scenarios. The system costs were also evaluated, and the high-efficiency appliances option has a 51% lower cost. The study also applies to other sub-Saharan countries in the region with very low energy access rates and abundant solar energy, thus giving a large contribution to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Education Goal 4 (SDG 4).
Efficient Integration of Machine Learning into District Heating Predictive Models
Authors: Kudela Libor , Chýlek Radomír , Pospíšil Jiří
Published: December 2020

Modern control strategies for district-level heating and cooling supply systems pose a difficult challenge. In order to integrate a wide range of hot and cold sources, these new systems will rely heavily on accumulation and much lower operating temperatures. This means that predictive models advising the control strategy must take into account long-lasting thermal effects but must not be computationally too expensive, because the control would not be possible in practice. This paper presents a simple but powerful systematic approach to reducing the complexity of individual components of such models. It makes it possible to combine human engineering intuition with machine learning and arrive at comprehensive and accurate models. As an example, a simple steady-state heat loss of buried pipes is extended with dynamics observed in a much more complex model. The results show that the process converges quickly toward reasonable solutions. The new auto-generated model performs 5 × 104 times faster than its complex equivalent while preserving essentially the same accuracy. This approach has great potential to enhance the development of fast predictive models not just for district heating. Only open-source software was used, while OpenModelica, Python, and FEniCS were predominantly used.
Analytical Model for Predicting Productivity of Radial-Lateral Wells
Authors: Guo Boyun , Shaibu Rashid , Yang Xu
Published: December 2020

An analytical model for predicting the productivity of Radial-lateral wells (RLW) drilled using radial jet drilling technology was developed in this work. The model assumes uniformly distributed equal-geometry laterals draining oil or gas under pseudo-steady state flow conditions within the lateral-reached drainage area. A numerical simulation and production data from three field cases of RLW were used to compare and validate the model. The result indicates that the model overestimates the well production rates for wells by 7.7%, 3.25%, and 8.8%, respectively. The error is attributed to several sources including, lack of data for well skin factor, uncertainty of horizontal permeability (kH) in the well area, uncertainty of permeability anisotropy (Iani), and uncertainty in bottom hole pressure (pw). Error analysis of uncertainties in kH, Iani, and pw showed that the model could predict productivity well with an acceptable error (10%) over practical ranges of these parameter values. Parameter sensitivity analyses showed that an increasing number of laterals, lateral length, and horizontal permeability would almost proportionally increase productivity. Well productivity is sensitive to well skin factor and oil viscosity, but not sensitive to the radius of the lateral.
Comparison of the Interrupting Capability of Gas Circuit Breaker According to SF6, g3, and CO2/O2 Mixture
Authors: Lee Woo-Young , Jun Jang-Un , Oh Ho-Seok , Park Jun-Kyu , Oh Yeon-Ho , Song Ki-Dong , Jang Hyun-Jae
Published: December 2020

In the study, an interrupting performance test on the 145 kV gas circuit breaker is performed according to three different gases: SF6, g3 (5% NovecTM4710 with 95% CO2), and CO2(70%)/O2(30%) gases. Thanks to research advancements, it is confirmed that CO2 and g3 (5% NovecTM 4710) gases, respectively, have 40% and 75% dielectric strength, compared to that of SF6 gas. The filling pressure and transient recovery voltage criteria of each gas were determined differently in order to compare the maximum interrupting performance of each gas. The pressure of SF6 gas was determined to be 5.5 bar, which is typically used in circuit breakers. The pressure of the other two gases was determined to be 8.0 bar (the maximum available pressure of the test circuit breaker) to find the maximum interrupting performance. Moreover, the rate-of-rise of transient recovery voltage of SF6 was determined as 10 kV/μs, which is the value at the state of maximum interrupting performance of the test circuit breaker with SF6. On the other hand, the rate-of-rise of transient recovery voltages of g3 (5% NovecTM4710 with 95% CO2) and CO2(70%)/O2(30%) gases were, respectively, determined as 4∼5 kV/μs to find the interruption available point. The characteristics of arc conductance, arc current, and arc voltage near the current zero, and post-arc current are analyzed to compare the interrupting performance, according to different arc-quenching gases. The arc current is measured using a current transformer (Rogowski coil), and a signal processing method of the arc current and arc voltage is introduced to increase the reliability of the interrupting performance results. As a result of the test, it is confirmed that the critical arc conductance for all test conditions converged within a certain range and the value is around 0.7 mS. In addition, the critical current slope just before the current zero-crossing during the interrupting process is shown to be 1.8 A/μs between interruption success and failure. Consequently, it is verified that the CO2(70%)/O2(30%) mixture and g3 (5% NovecTM4710 with 95% CO2) have a similar arc extinguishing performance and SF6 has a relatively higher extinguishing performance than that of CO2(70%)/O2(30%) mixture and g3 (5% NovecTM4710 with 95% CO2) under the aforementioned filling pressure and TRV conditions.
Design and Analysis of a Fully Variable Valve Actuation System
Authors: Jiang Longxin , Liu Liang , Peng Xiaowei , Xu Zhaoping
Published: December 2020

With the problem of environmental pollution and energy shortage becoming more and more serious, the fuel efficiency of automobile engines has attracted much attention, and variable valve technology is one of the important technologies to solve this problem. A novel fully variable valve actuation (FVVA) system based on a brushless direct current motor (BLDCM) is designed to achieve fully variable valve adjustment. The system uses a crank-moving guide rod mechanism to convert the rotary motion of the BLDCM into the linear motion of the valve. The fully variable valve system can realize real-time continuous adjustment of valve operating parameters through the motion control of BLDCM, including variable valve timing, variable valve opening duration, and variable lift. A BLDCM and a transmission mechanism for the FVVA system is designed in this paper. In order to better analyze the performance of the system, a dynamic model is established. Then, a three closed-loop control method is adopted to realize position control of the valve. Finally, a complete system model is established to verify the theory conclusions. The results show that the system can realize fully variable valve adjustment.
Demand Response Program Expansion in Korea through Particulate Matter Forecasting Based on Deep Learning and Fuzzy Inference
Authors: Ryu Jeseok , Kim Jinho
Published: December 2020

The increase in ambient particulate matter (PM) is affecting not only our daily life but also various industries. To cope with the issue of PM, which has been detrimental to the population of megacities, an advanced demand response (DR) program is established by Korea Power Exchange (KPX) to supplement existing policies in Korea. Ironically, however, DR programs have been launched hurriedly, creating problems for several stakeholders such as local governments, market operators, and DR customers. As an alternative, a method for predicting and categorizing the PM through deep learning and fuzzy inference is suggested in this study. The simulation results based on Seoul data show that the proposed model can overcome the problems related to current DR programs and policy loopholes and can provide improvements for some stakeholders. However, the proposed model also has some limitations, which require an in-depth policy consideration or an incentive system for power generation companies.
Numerical and Experimental Investigations on Combustion Characteristics of Premixed Lean Methane–Air in a Staggered Arrangement Burner with Discrete Cylinders
Authors: Yue Meng , Xie Mao-Zhao , Shi Jun-Rui , Liu Hong-Sheng , Chen Zhong-Shan , Chang Ya-Chao
Published: December 2020

Premixed combustion of lean methane–air in an artificial porous media burner with staggered alumina cylinders was experimentally and numerically performed. Numerical simulations were conducted at gas mixture velocities of 0.43–0.86 m/s and equivalence ratios of 0.162 and 0.243, respectively. Through comparison with experimental results, temperature distribution, peak temperature and flame propagation velocity are analyzed and discussed in detail. The numerical calculated temperature profile over the axis of the combustor coincided well with test data in the post-flame zone, however a certain deviation was found in the preheated zone. A two-dimensional flame shape was observed and the flame thickness was the size of cylinder diameter. The peak temperature increased with the gas mixture inlet velocity at the certain equivalence ratio, and its peak value was about 1.8–2.16 times higher than the adiabatic combustion temperature under the desired equivalence ratio, which indicates that super-adiabatic combustion was the case for all the numerical simulations. The flame propagating velocity had a positive correlation with the gas mixture inlet velocity.
Hierarchical, Grid-Aware, and Economically Optimal Coordination of Distributed Energy Resources in Realistic Distribution Systems
Authors: Almassalkhi Mads , Brahma Sarnaduti , Nazir Nawaf , Ossareh Hamid , Racherla Pavan , Kundu Soumya , Nandanoori Sai Pushpak , Ramachandran Thiagarajan , Singhal Ankit , Gayme Dennice , Ji Chengda , Mallada Enrique , Shen Yue , You Pengcheng , Anand Dhananjay
Published: December 2020

Renewable portfolio standards are targeting high levels of variable solar photovoltaics (PV) in electric distribution systems, which makes reliability more challenging to maintain for distribution system operators (DSOs). Distributed energy resources (DERs), including smart, connected appliances and PV inverters, represent responsive grid resources that can provide flexibility to support the DSO in actively managing their networks to facilitate reliability under extreme levels of solar PV. This flexibility can also be used to optimize system operations with respect to economic signals from wholesale energy and ancillary service markets. Here, we present a novel hierarchical scheme that actively controls behind-the-meter DERs to reliably manage each unbalanced distribution feeder and exploits the available flexibility to ensure reliable operation and economically optimizes the entire distribution network. Each layer of the scheme employs advanced optimization methods at different timescales to ensure that the system operates within both grid and device limits. The hierarchy is validated in a large-scale realistic simulation based on data from the industry. Simulation results show that coordination of flexibility improves both system reliability and economics, and enables greater penetration of solar PV. Discussion is also provided on the practical viability of the required communications and controls to implement the presented scheme within a large DSO.
Statistical Evaluation of the Level of Development of Circular Economy in European Union Member Countries
Authors: Fura Barbara , Stec Małgorzata , Miś Teresa
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we have analysed the level of advancement in circular economy (CE) in the EU-28 countries. First, we used a synthetic measure to examine CE advancement in EU countries in each of the Eurostat CE distinguished areas, i.e., production and consumption, waste management, secondary raw materials, and competitiveness and innovation. For the empirical analysis, we applied 17 Eurostat indicators to the CE areas. To find the synthetic measure in 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2016, we used multidimensional comparative analysis, i.e., a zero unitarisation method. Second, based on the synthetic measures of the CE areas, we created a general synthetic measure of the CE advancement of the EU-28 countries as well as the countries’ rankings. Third, we classified the countries into groups according to their level of advancement in CE, i.e., high level, medium–high level, medium–low level and low level groups. Finally, we applied a similarity measure to evaluate the correlation between obtained rankings in two most extreme moments in the period of analysis (2010, 2016). Our analysis covers all EU member states, as well as “old” and “new” EU countries separately. Our results confirm that highly developed Benelux countries, i.e., Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Belgium, have the highest CE advancement level. Malta, Cyprus, Estonia and Greece are the least advanced in CE practice. Apart from that, on average, there is some progress in CE implementation, significant disproportions between the EU countries were observed, especially among the “new” member states.
GaN-Based DC-DC Resonant Boost Converter with Very High Efficiency and Voltage Gain Control
Authors: Waradzyn Zbigniew , Stala Robert , Mondzik Andrzej , Skała Aleksander , Penczek Adam
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a concept for the operation of a resonant DC–DC switched-capacitor converter with very high efficiency and output voltage regulation. In its basic concept, such a converter operates as a switched-capacitor voltage doubler (SCVD) in the Zero Current Switching (ZCS) mode with a constant output voltage. The proposed methods of switching allow for the switched-capacitor (SC) converter output voltage regulation, and improve its efficiency by the operation with Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS). In this paper, various switching patterns are proposed to achieve high efficiency and the output voltage control by frequency or duty cycle regulation. Some examples of the application of the proposed switching patterns are presented: in current control at the start-up of the converter, in a bi-directional converter, and in a modular cascaded system. The paper also presents an analytical model as well as the relationships between the switching frequency, voltage ratio and efficiency. Further, it demonstrates the experimental verification of the waveforms, voltage ratios, as well as efficiency. The proposed experimental setup achieved a maximum efficiency of 99.228%. The implementation of the proposed switching patterns with the ZVS operation along with the GaN-based (Gallium Nitride) design, with a planar choke, leads to a high-efficiency and low-volume solution for the SCVD converter and is competitive with the switch-mode step-up converters.
Implementation of a WSN-Based IIoT Monitoring System within the Workshop of a Solar Protection Curtains Company
Authors: Biurrun Aitor , Picallo Imanol , Klaina Hicham , Lopez-Iturri Peio , Alejos Ana V. , Azpilicueta Leyre , Socorro Abian B. , Falcone Francisco
Published: December 2020

Nowadays, the implementation of automated manufacturing processes within a wide variety of industrial environments is not understood without the Industry 4.0 concept and the context-aware possibilities given by the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). In this sense, Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) play a key role due to their inherent mobility, ease of deployment and maintenance, scalability and low power consumption, among others. This work proposes the deployment and optimization of a WSN in the facilities of the Galeo Enrollables Company, located in Navarre (Spain), in order to optimize the manufacturing processes of technical curtains. For that purpose, radio propagation measurements as well as 3D Ray Launching simulations have been performed in order to characterize the wireless channel of this harsh industrial environment. Then, low cost sensors and actuators have been selected to prepare different wireless motes in order to deploy them on different machines/workstations present within the scenario. The information gathered by the motes is then transmitted to a central node, which conditions the data for input into the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
Recording and Evaluating the Tangible and Intangible Cultural Assets of a Place through a Multicriteria Decision-Making System
Authors: Linaki Eleni , Serraos Konstantinos
Published: December 2020

The starting point of this paper is the fact that multicriteria decision-making systems have not had the greatest impact on cultural studies, and few researchers have addressed this problem. The paper focuses on the analysis of the main object of an ongoing Doctoral thesis. More specifically, it examines the proposal of a new multicriteria evaluation based on a decision-making method. The paper intends to relate culture with multicriteria decision-making methods. This systematic review provides the direct analysis and assessment of the existing bibliographic references, and addresses a gap of knowledge in the intangible research field, identifying trends in the broader cultural heritage sector. The two basic principles of the paper are the recording and the evaluation of the cultural significance of the intangible and tangible heritage assets of a place. More specifically, the paper seeks to address a new scientific tool that initially records and—in the process—evaluates, using quantitative and qualitative criteria, specific cultural assets. Moreover, the paper outlines a new approach to the calibration—from optimal to worse—of the heritage of a place according to its significance. The purpose of the record and the evaluation is to create a ranking list of the most culturally significant tangible and intangible asset of places, in order to manage them. The design of the multicriteria method is based on a system that can be constantly updated diachronically, and can be fulfilled with new cultural assets and then re-evaluated. The explanation of the system is given through a step-by-step guide to the data analysis process, ensuring that the system has elements that are easy to access, to understand, and to use by each state actor (institution, individual, company, etc.).
Quality of Life and Mental Health in Mothers and Fathers Caring for Children and Adolescents with Rare Diseases Requiring Long-Term Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Boettcher Johannes , Denecke Jonas , Barkmann Claus , Wiegand-Grefe Silke
Published: December 2020

(1) Parents caring for children and adolescents with rare diseases fear the long-term progression of the child’s disease and the loss of their parental role. The aim of this study was to examine the quality of life, mental health and associated protective factors of mothers and fathers caring for children with rare diseases requiring mechanical long-term ventilation. (2) In a cross-sectional design, data on quality of life, mental health, coping mechanisms, social support and family functioning from n = 75 affected families were collected using standardized psychometric questionnaires. (3) Mothers compared to fathers were significantly more impaired in their quality of life and mental health. Protective factors significantly associated with the respective outcomes for mothers were coping mechanisms, social support and family functioning, whereas for fathers solely the latter was found to be significant. Multiple regression analyses showed that family functioning may be the most important predictor of quality of life and mental health. (4) The results support the need for family-oriented care in parents of children with rare diseases. To reach optimal efficiency, health care providers should not only screen parents for psychosocial impairment but also provide interventions that consider gender-specific differences in psychological health.
Transformation of a Ferry Ship into a Ship Hospital for COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Cremonesi Paolo , Sartini Marina , Spagnolo Anna Maria , Adriano Giulia , Zsirai Eva , Patrone Carlotta , Cevasco Isabella , Cristina Maria Luisa
Published: December 2020

Liguria is a northwestern region of Italy that, since the WHO has declared COVID-19 as a pandemic (11 March 2020), presented 108 patients hospitalized, 34 of which were in the intensive care unit. Due to this serious epidemiological emergency, the transformation of a long-distance ferry ship into a hospital ship for COVID-19 patients who were still positive after the acute phase of the illness was carried out to free up hospital beds for patients in the acute phase. The ship was moored in the port of Genoa, the capital of Liguria. The conversion was localized to a single deck, where designated healthcare areas were identified. From 23 March to 18 June 2020, 191 patients were admitted onto the ship; they were provided with high-level healthcare guaranteed by the multi-disciplinary nature of clinical competencies available. Patients had a favorable outcome in all cases, confirmed by their recovery and negative swab results. Moreover, no cases of voluntary discharge were recorded. To the best of our knowledge, this is the only example in the world in which a passenger ship was transformed into a ship hospital for COVID patients.
Engaging Older People in Age-Friendly Cities through Participatory Video Design
Authors: von Faber Margaret , Tavy Zsuzsu , van der Pas Suzan
Published: December 2020

Participatory video design is a novel approach to collect experiences and perceptions of older people about the age-friendliness of their city or neighborhood. In this article, we describe how this co-creative method can add to specific knowledge about the preferences and needs of older people about the improvement or preservation of their environment. We describe two examples of this approach in the cities of The Hague and Leiden, the Netherlands. Persons of 60 years and older were invited to participate in a “workshop” on filmmaking focusing on age-friendly cities. A professional filmmaker and a researcher of the University of Applied Sciences worked in co-creation with older people, to produce short films on the topics that were perceived as important from the perspective of the participants. The older people worked in couples to produce their short films about the city or their neighborhood. Topics of the films included communication and information, outdoor spaces, social relations, and community support. The use of participatory video design can foster empowerment and social interaction among older participants, and insight into the preferences and needs of older people regarding age-friendly cities.
The Burden of Spinal Muscular Atrophy on Informal Caregivers
Authors: Aranda-Reneo Isaac , Peña-Longobardo Luz María , Oliva-Moreno Juan , Litzkendorf Svenja , Durand-Zaleski Isabelle , Tizzano Eduardo F. , López-Bastida Julio
Published: December 2020

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is one of the most common severe hereditary diseases of infancy and early childhood. The progression of this illness causes a high degree of disability; hence, a significant burden is experienced by individuals with this disease and their families. We analyzed the time taken to care for patients suffering from SMA in European countries and the burden on their informal caregivers. We designed a cross-sectional study recording data from France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom. The primary caregivers completed a self-administered questionnaire that included questions about the time of care, The Zarit Burden Interview, type of SMA and socio-demographic characteristics. Multivariate analyses were used to study the associations between the type of SMA, time of care and burden supported by informal caregivers. The caregivers provided 10.0 h (SD = 6.7) per day of care (the principal caregivers provided 6.9 h, SD = 4.6). The informal caregivers of patients with type I SMA had a 36.3 point higher likelihood (p < 0.05) of providing more than 10 h of care per day in comparison with caregivers of patients with type III SMA. The severity of the disease was associated with more time of care and a higher burden on the caregivers.
Dental Challenges and the Needs of the Population during the Covid-19 Pandemic Period. Real-Time Surveillance Using Google Trends
Authors: Sycinska-Dziarnowska Magdalena , Paradowska-Stankiewicz Iwona
Published: December 2020

Background: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to changes in the dental needs of the population and new challenges concerning oral health care. Methods: The Google Trends tool was used to collect data on the Internet search interest. The investigated material was collected from 1 January 2020 to 23 August 2020. Search terms “toothache”, “dentist” and “stay at home” were retrieved for the whole world as well as for the US, the UK, Poland, Italy and Sweden. Results: During the lockdown, correlation analysis indicates the lowest public interest in the word “dentist” one week preceding the peak for “toothache”, followed by an increase in the word search for “dentist”. On 12 April, worldwide, the maximum of Google Trends Relative Search Volume (RSV) for “toothache” was observed. Conclusion: Decrease in “dentist” queries during lockdown followed by an increase in “toothache” search predicts greater dental needs in the post-pandemic period. The surveillance shows significant changes in queries for dental-related terms during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to prepare for future pandemic outbreaks teledentistry programs should be taken into consideration.
Impact of Extreme Temperatures on Ambulance Dispatches Due to Cardiovascular Causes in North-West Spain
Authors: Romani Santiago Gestal , Royé Dominic , Sánchez Santos Luis , Figueiras Adolfo
Published: December 2020

Introduction and objectives. The increase in mortality and hospital admissions associated with high and low temperatures is well established. However, less is known about the influence of extreme ambient temperature conditions on cardiovascular ambulance dispatches. This study seeks to evaluate the effects of minimum and maximum daily temperatures on cardiovascular morbidity in the cities of Vigo and A Coruña in North-West Spain, using emergency medical calls during the period 2005–2017. Methods. For the purposes of analysis, we employed a quasi-Poisson time series regression model, within a distributed non-linear lag model by exposure variable and city. The relative risks of cold- and heat-related calls were estimated for each city and temperature model. Results. A total of 70,537 calls were evaluated, most of which were associated with low maximum and minimum temperatures on cold days in both cities. At maximum temperatures, significant cold-related effects were observed at lags of 3–6 days in Vigo and 5–11 days in A Coruña. At minimum temperatures, cold-related effects registered a similar pattern in both cities, with significant relative risks at lags of 4 to 12 days in A Coruña. Heat-related effects did not display a clearly significant pattern. Conclusions. An increase in cardiovascular morbidity is observed with moderately low temperatures without extremes being required to establish an effect. Public health prevention plans and warning systems should consider including moderate temperature range in the prevention of cardiovascular morbidity.
Infection and Risk Perception of SARS-CoV-2 among Airport Workers: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Malagón-Rojas Jeadran , Parra B Eliana L. , Mercado Marcela
Published: December 2020

This is a mixed-methods research study carried out on a cohort of airport workers during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. We used quantitative and qualitative methods to describe the infection and risk perception of SARS-CoV-2 in a cohort of workers at the International Airport El Dorado/Luis Carlos Galán Sarmiento in Bogotá, Colombia. An incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection of 7.9% was found in the workers. A high perception of risk was associated with activities such as using public transport. Risk perception is strongly influenced by practices related to work conditions and environments. These findings could help us understand the pandemic’s dynamics and the conceptions of the risk of transmission to promote policies on health and safety in this group of workers.
Constipation and Its Associated Factors among Patients with Dementia
Authors: Chen Chien-Liang , Liang Tzu-Ming , Chen Hsiu-Hui , Lee Yan-Yuh , Chuang Yao-Chung , Chen Nai-Ching
Published: December 2020

Constipation is one of the most frequent non-motor problems in older adults. As constipation is commonly ignored by dementia patients, it is not usually reported on time. Constipation has a serious impact on the activity of daily living and quality of life in dementia patients. The relationships between constipation, demographic variables, and the nutritional status of patients with dementia remain unknown. This study aimed to assess the possible factors associated with constipation. This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital from January to November 2019. This hospital is a medical center and the main referral hospital of southern Taiwan, serving 3 million inhabitants. In total, 119 patients with dementia were evaluated using the Rome III diagnostic criteria for functional constipation. There were 30 patients with dementia included in the constipation group and 89 patients with dementia included in the no constipation group. Mini-Nutritional Assessment and 3-day diet diary records were employed. The clinical dementia rating score was used to evaluate the severity of dementia in patients of the outpatient clinic. Approximately 25.2% of dementia patients had constipation. Patients in the dementia with constipation group were older, had severer dementia, and displayed a lower water intake. After multivariable adjustment, low liquid consumption was the predictor of constipation among patients with dementia. The findings support the clinical recommendations to treat constipation with an increased liquid intake, but not exercise, in dementia patients.
Educational Simulation Program Based on Korean Triage and Acuity Scale
Authors: Jang Jae-Hyuk , Kim Sang Suk , Kim Sunghee
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to develop and implement an educational simulation program based on the Korean Triage and Acuity Scale (KTAS) for nurses in emergency medical centers who completed the KTAS training, and assess its effects. We examined the educational effects of the program by evaluating clinical decision-making ability, job satisfaction, and customer orientation among the participants, namely 27 nurses in the emergency center of a general hospital. Data were collected from 3 to 24 May 2017, and analyzed using SPSS 22.0. There was a significant difference in nurses’ mean scores on clinical decision-making ability, job satisfaction, and customer orientation before and after the simulation-based education. In other words, after completing the KTAS-based simulation education program, the emergency nurses showed improved clinical decision-making ability, job satisfaction, and customer orientation. Based on the results of this study, it is expected that this educational program can be effectively used for KTAS education, and it was confirmed that simulation-based education is a useful learning method for triage nurses in emergency medical centers.
Association between Crash Attributes and Drivers’ Crash Involvement: A Study Based on Police-Reported Crash Data
Authors: Li Guofa , Lai Weijian , Qu Xingda
Published: December 2020

Understanding the association between crash attributes and drivers’ crash involvement in different types of crashes can help figure out the causation of crashes. The aim of this study was to examine the involvement in different types of crashes for drivers from different age groups, by using the police-reported crash data from 2014 to 2016 in Shenzhen, China. A synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) together with edited nearest neighbors (ENN) were used to solve the data imbalance problem caused by the lack of crash records of older drivers. Logistic regression was utilized to estimate the probability of a certain type of crashes, and odds ratios that were calculated based on the logistic regression results were used to quantify the association between crash attributes and drivers’ crash involvement in different types of crashes. Results showed that drivers’ involvement patterns in different crash types were affected by different factors, and the involvement patterns differed among the examined age groups. Knowledge generated from the present study could help improve the development of countermeasures for driving safety enhancement.
Local and Contralateral Effects after the Application of Neuromuscular Electrostimulation in Lower Limbs
Authors: Benito-Martínez Elisa , Senovilla-Herguedas Diego , de la Torre-Montero Julio César , Martínez-Beltrán María Jesús , Reguera-García María Mercedes , Alonso-Cortés Beatriz
Published: December 2020

Neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) has been used mainly as a method to promote muscle strength, but its effects on improving blood flow are less well known. The aim of this study is to deepen the knowledge about the local and contralateral effects of the application of symmetric biphasic square currents on skin temperature (Tsk). An experimental pilot study was developed with a single study group consisting of 45 healthy subjects. Thermographic evaluations were recorded following the application of NMES to the anterior region of the thigh. The results showed an increase in the maximal Tsk of 0.67% in the anterior region of the thigh where the NMES was applied (p < 0.001) and an increase of 0.54% (p < 0.01) due to cross-education effects, which was higher when the NMES was applied on the dominant side (0.79%; p < 0.01). The duration of the effect was 20 min in the dominant leg and 10 min in the nondominant one. The application of a symmetrical biphasic current (8 Hz and 400 μs) creates an increase in the maximal Tsk at the local level. A temperature cross-education effect is produced, which is greater when the NMES is applied on the dominant side. This could be a useful noninvasive measurement tool in NMES treatments.
RETRACTED: Khan et al. Spatiotemporal Analysis of Tourists and Residents in Shanghai Based on Location-Based Social Network’s Data from Weibo. ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2020, 9, 70
Authors:   IJGI Editorial Office
Published: December 2020

The IJGI Editorial Office has been made aware that the published paper [...]
Multi-Omics Analysis Provides Novel Insight into Immuno-Physiological Pathways and Development of Thermal Resistance in Rainbow Trout Exposed to Acute Thermal Stress
Authors: Roh HyeongJin , Kim Ahran , Kim Nameun , Lee Yoonhang , Kim Do-Hyung
Published: December 2020

In recent years, poikilothermic animals such as fish have increasingly been exposed to stressful high-temperature environments due to global warming. However, systemic changes in fish under thermal stress are not fully understood yet at both the transcriptome and proteome level. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the immuno-physiological responses of fish under extreme thermal stress through integrated multi-omics analysis. Trout were exposed to acute thermal stress by raising water temperature from 15 to 25 °C within 30 min. Head-kidney and plasma samples were collected and used for RNA sequencing and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Gene enrichment analysis was performed: differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified to interpret the multi-omics results and identify the relevant biological processes through pathway analysis. Thousands of DEGs and 49 DEPs were identified in fish exposed to thermal stress. Most of these genes and proteins were highly linked to DNA replication, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, cell signaling and structure, glycolysis activation, complement-associated hemolysis, processing of released free hemoglobin, and thrombosis and hypertension/vasoconstriction. Notably, we found that immune disorders mediated by the complement system may trigger hemolysis in thermally stressed fish, which could have serious consequences such as ferroptosis and thrombosis. However, antagonistic activities that decrease cell-free hemoglobin, heme, and iron might be involved in alleviating the side effects of thermally induced immuno-physiological disorders. These factors may represent the major thermal resistance traits that allow fish to overcome extreme thermal stress. Our findings, based on integration of multi-omics data from transcriptomics and proteomics analyses, provide novel insight into the pathogenesis of acute thermal stress and temperature-linked epizootics.
Enteric Glia at the Crossroads between Intestinal Immune System and Epithelial Barrier: Implications for Parkinson Disease
Authors: Benvenuti Laura , D'Antongiovanni Vanessa , Pellegrini Carolina , Antonioli Luca , Bernardini Nunzia , Blandizzi Corrado , Fornai Matteo
Published: December 2020

Over recent years, several investigations have suggested that Parkinson’s disease (PD) can be regarded as the consequence of a bowel disorder. Indeed, gastrointestinal symptoms can occur at all stages of this neurodegenerative disease and in up to a third of cases, their onset can precede the involvement of the central nervous system. Recent data suggest that enteric glial cells (EGCs) may play a major role in PD-related gastrointestinal disturbances, as well as in the development and progression of the central disease. In addition to their trophic and structural functions, EGCs are crucial for the homeostatic control of a wide range of gastrointestinal activities. The main purpose of this review was to provide a detailed overview of the role of EGCs in intestinal PD-associated alterations, with particular regard for their participation in digestive and central inflammation as well as the dynamic interactions between glial cells and intestinal epithelial barrier. Accumulating evidence suggests that several pathological intestinal conditions, associated with an impairment of barrier permeability, may trigger dysfunctions of EGCs and their shift towards a proinflammatory phenotype. The reactive gliosis is likely responsible for PD-related neuroinflammation and the associated pathological changes in the ENS. Thus, ameliorating the efficiency of mucosal barrier, as well as avoiding IEB disruption and the related reactive gliosis, might theoretically prevent the onset of PD or, at least, counteract its progression.
Carvone Enantiomers Differentially Modulate IgE-Mediated Airway Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Ribeiro-Filho Jaime , da Silva Brandi Juliana , Ferreira Costa Hermann , Carla de Paula Medeiros Karina , Alves Leite Jacqueline , Pergentino de Sousa Damião , Regina Piuvezam Márcia
Published: December 2020

Carvone is a monoterpene found in nature in the form of enantiomers (S- and R-). While previous research has demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects of carvone, the influence of carvone enantiomeric composition on its anti-allergic activity remains to be investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-allergic activity of carvone enantiomers in a murine model of airway allergic inflammation induced by sensitization and challenge with ovalbumin (OVA). The oral treatment with R-carvone or S-carvone 1 h before each challenge inhibited the number of leukocytes and eosinophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). R-carvone inhibited leukocyte infiltration and mucus production in the lung, which was correlated with decreased production of OVA-specific IgE in the serum and increased concentrations of IL-10 in the BAL. On the other hand, the administration of S-carvone had little inhibitory effect on inflammatory infiltration and mucus production in the lung, which might be associated with increased production of IFN-γ in the BAL. When administered 1 h before each sensitization, both enantiomers inhibited eosinophil recruitment to the BAL but failed in decreasing the titers of IgE in the serum of allergic mice. Our data indicate that carvone enantiomers differentially modulated IgE-mediated airway inflammation in mice. In conclusion, unlike S-carvone, R-carvone has the potential to be used in anti-allergic drug development.
Correction: Alcalá, S., et al. Targeting SRC Kinase Signaling in Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cells. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21, 7437
Authors: Alcalá Sonia , Mayoral-Varo Víctor , Ruiz-Cañas Laura , López-Gil Juan Carlos , Heeschen Christopher , Martín-Pérez Jorge , Sainz Bruno
Published: December 2020

The authors recently reported on the potential of targeting SRC kinase signaling in pancreatic cancer stem cells [...]
Morphological, Anatomical, and Phytochemical Studies of Carlina acaulis L. Cypsela
Authors: Strzemski Maciej , Płachno Bartosz J. , Mazurek Barbara , Kozłowska Weronika , Sowa Ireneusz , Lustofin Krzysztof , Załuski Daniel , Rydzik Łukasz , Szczepanek Dariusz , Sawicki Jan , Wójciak Magdalena
Published: December 2020

Carlina acaulis L. has a long tradition of use in folk medicine. The chemical composition of the roots and green parts of the plant is quite well known. There is the lowest amount of data on the cypsela (fruit) of this plant. In this study, the microscopic structures and the chemical composition of the cypsela were investigated. Preliminary cytochemical studies of the structure of the Carlina acaulis L. cypsela showed the presence of substantial amounts of protein and lipophilic substances. The chemical composition of the cypsela was investigated using spectrophotometry, gas chromatography with mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography with spectrophotometric and fluorescence detection. The cypsela has been shown to be a rich source of macro- and microelements, vegetable oil (25%), α-tocopherol (approx. 2 g/kg of oil), protein (approx. 36% seed weight), and chlorogenic acids (approx. 22 g/kg seed weight). It also contains a complex set of volatile compounds. The C. acaulis cypsela is, therefore, a valuable source of nutrients and bioactive substances.
Gui-A-Gra Attenuates Testicular Dysfunction in Varicocele-Induced Rats via Oxidative Stress, ER Stress and Mitochondrial Apoptosis Pathway
Authors: Karna Keshab , Choi Na , Kim Chul , Kim Hye , Shin Yu , Park Jong
Published: December 2020

Gui-A-Gra, a commercial insect powder from Gryllus bimaculatus, is registered as an edible insect by the Korean food and drug administration. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Gui-A-Gra on testicular damage induced by experimental left varicocele in male Sprague Dawley rats. A total of 72 rats were randomly divided into the following six groups (12 rats in each group): a normal control group (CTR), a group administrated with Gui-A-Gra 1.63 gm/kg (G1.63), a group administrated with Gui-A-Gra 6.5 gm/kg (G6.5), a varicocele (VC)-induced control group (VC), a VC-induced group administrated with Gui-A-Gra 1.63 gm/kg (VC + G1.63), and a VC-induced group administrated with Gui-A-Gra 6.5 gm/kg (VC + G6.5). Rats were administrated 1.63 or 6.5 gm/kg Gui-A-Gra once daily for 42 days. Indicators of sperm parameters, histopathology, reproductive hormones, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial apoptosis were analyzed to evaluate effects of Gui-A-Gra on VC-induced testicular dysfunction. Gui-A-Gra administration to VC-induced rats significantly (p < 0.05) increased sperm count and sperm motility, Johnsen score, spermatogenic cell density, serum testosterone, testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase, GPx4, and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) level. Moreover, pretreatment with Gui-A-Gra significantly (p < 0.05) decreased terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) positive cells/tubules, serum luteinizing hormone (LH), serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testicular tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS)/reactive nitrogen species (RNS) level, glucose-regulated protein-78 (Grp-78), phosphorylated c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), phosphorylated inositol-requiring transmembrane kinase/endoribonuclease 1α (p-IRE1α), cleaved caspase-3, and BCL2 associated X protein: B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bax: Bcl2) ratio in VC rats. These results suggest that protective effects of Gui-A-Gra on VC-induced testicular injury might be due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and androgenic activities that might be mediated via crosstalk of oxidative stress, ER stress, and mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.
Galectin-3 in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Blanda Valeria , Bracale Umberto Marcello , Di Taranto Maria Donata , Fortunato Giuliana
Published: December 2020

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a β-galactoside-binding protein belonging to the lectin family with pleiotropic regulatory activities and several physiological cellular functions, such as cellular growth, proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, cellular adhesion, and tissue repair. Inflammation, tissue fibrosis and angiogenesis are the main processes in which Gal-3 is involved. It is implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including organ fibrosis, chronic inflammation, cancer, atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review aims to explore the connections of Gal-3 with cardiovascular diseases since they represent a major cause of morbidity and mortality. We herein discuss the evidence on the pro-inflammatory role of Gal-3 in the atherogenic process as well as the association with plaque features linked to lesion stability. We report the biological role and molecular mechanisms of Gal-3 in other CVDs, highlighting its involvement in the development of cardiac fibrosis and impaired myocardium remodelling, resulting in heart failure and atrial fibrillation. The role of Gal-3 as a prognostic marker of heart failure is described together with possible diagnostic applications to other CVDs. Finally, we report the tentative use of Gal-3 inhibition as a therapeutic approach to prevent cardiac inflammation and fibrosis.