bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization Algorithm to Sequence the Management Processes in Information Technology Departments
Authors: Rubio Sánchez Juan Luis
Published: May 2021

The most important standard in technology services management is the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL). The literature review developed shows that one of the most important questions to answer is finding the sequence of processes to be implemented, mainly in small companies with few resources. The purpose of this paper is to show a methodology that defines an optimal specific sequence of processes for each small company depending on internal and external parameters. The main contribution of this paper is a proven methodology to obtain a particular sequence of ITIL processes specifically adapted to each company, based on a mathematical and statistical model that uses data from a web survey. Its application generates an optimal sequence of ITIL processes. The methodology has been applied with successful results in a real case, and it shows specific benefits over the previous approaches. The main learning objective of this research is a proven method to obtain an optimal sequence of processes for the implementation of ITIL in small companies. Finally, some future works are presented.
Viewer’s Role and Viewer Interaction in Cinematic Virtual Reality
Authors: Tong Lingwei , Lindeman Robert W. , Regenbrecht Holger
Published: May 2021

Cinematic Virtual Reality (CVR) is a form of immersive storytelling widely used to create engaging and enjoyable experiences. However, issues related to the Narrative Paradox and Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) can negatively affect the user experience. In this paper, we review the literature about designing CVR content with the consideration of the viewer’s role in the story, the target scenario, and the level of viewer interaction, all aimed to resolve these issues. Based on our explorations, we propose a “Continuum of Interactivity” to explore appropriate spaces for creating CVR experiences to archive high levels of engagement and immersion. We also discuss two properties to consider when enabling interaction in CVR, the depth of impact and the visibility. We then propose the concept framework Adaptive Playback Control (APC), a machine-mediated narrative system with implicit user interaction and backstage authorial control. We focus on “swivel-chair” 360-degree video CVR with the aim of providing a framework of mediated CVR storytelling with interactivity. We target content creators who develop engaging CVR experiences for education, entertainment, and other applications without requiring professional knowledge in VR and immersive systems design.
Optical Parametric Oscillation with Ultra-Low Power Threshold in a Dimer of Active-Passive Cavities
Authors: Lu Bo , Fan Chen-Rui , Song Jun-Yang , Wang Chuan
Published: May 2021

Optical parametric oscillation can convert the input laser into a couple of coherent optical output with signal and idler frequencies. It is an important method for the realization of the broadband middle infrared tunable lasers. The optical parametric oscillation process depends on the ultra-fast non-linear response of matter to light with a certain pump power. Therefore, reducing the pump threshold of the optical parametric oscillation process and improving the energy conversion efficiency are of great significance to the study of non-linear optics. In this paper, we construct a dimer system that couples a passive non-linear resonator to an active resonator. Based on the dimer system, an ultra-low threshold optical parametric oscillation generation method is proposed. By coupling the gain pump mode, the non-linear effect is effectively enhanced, the pump power threshold is reduced to half of when there is no gain, and the energy conversion efficiency is increased. We believe this research provides a feasible method for a low-threshold tunable and easy-to-integrate optical parametric oscillation laser source.
Frequency and Significance of Pathologic Pulmonary Findings in Postmortem Examinations—A Single Center Experience before COVID-19
Authors: Berezowska Sabina , Schmid Andreas , Losmanová Tereza , Trippel Mafalda , Blank Annika , Banz Yara , Jakob Stephan , Langer Rupert
Published: May 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has shown the importance of postmortem investigation of deceased patients. For a correct interpretation of the pulmonary findings in this new era, it is, however, crucial to be familiar with pathologic pulmonary conditions observed in postmortem investigations in general. Adequate postmortem histopathological evaluation of the lungs may be affected by suboptimal gross work up, autolysis or poor fixation. Using a standardized preparation approach which consisted in instillation of 4% buffered formaldehyde through the large bronchi for proper fixation and preparing large frontal tissue sections of 1–2 cm thickness after at least 24 h fixation, we comprehensively analyzed postmortem pulmonary findings from consecutive adult autopsies of a two-year period before the occurrence of COVID-19 (2016–2017). In total, significant pathological findings were observed in 97/189 patients (51%), with 28 patients showing more than one pathologic condition. Acute pneumonia was diagnosed 33/128 times (26%), embolism 24 times (19%), primary pulmonary neoplasms 18 times (14%), organizing pneumonia and other fibrosing conditions 14 times (11%), pulmonary metastases 13 times (10%), diffuse alveolar damage 12 times (9%), severe emphysema 9 times (7%) and other pathologies, e.g., amyloidosis 5/128 times (4%). Pulmonary/cardiopulmonary disease was the cause of death in 60 patients (32%). Clinical and pathological diagnoses regarding lung findings correlated completely in 75 patients (40%). Autopsy led to confirmation of a clinically suspected pulmonary diagnosis in 57 patients (39%) and clarification of an unclear clinical lung finding in 16 patients (8%). Major discrepant findings regarding the lungs (N = 31; 16%) comprised cases with clinical suspicions that could not be confirmed or new findings not diagnosed intra vitam. A significant proportion of acute pneumonias (N = 8; 24% of all cases with this diagnosis; p = 0.011) was not diagnosed clinically. We confirmed the frequent occurrence of pulmonary pathologies in autopsies, including inflammatory and neoplastic lesions as the most frequent pathological findings. Acute pneumonia was an important cause for discrepancy between clinical and postmortem diagnostics
Monitoring Dynamic Braided River Habitats: Applicability and Efficacy of Aerial Photogrammetry from Manned Aircraft versus Unmanned Aerial Systems
Authors: Khan M Saif I. , Ohlemüller Ralf , Maloney Richard F. , Seddon Philip J.
Published: May 2021

Despite growing interest in using lightweight unmanned aerial systems (UASs) for ecological research and conservation, review of the operational aspects of these evolving technologies is limited in the scientific literature. To derive an objective framework for choosing among technologies we calculated efficiency measures and conducted a data envelopment productivity frontier analysis (DEA) to compare the efficacy of using manned aircraft (Cessna with Aviatrix triggered image capture using a 50 mm lens) and UAS (Mavic Pro 2) for photogrammetric monitoring of restoration efforts in dynamic braided rivers in Southern New Zealand. Efficacy assessment was based on the technological, logistical, administrative, and economic requirements of pre (planning), peri (image acquiring) and post (image processing) phases. The results reveal that the technological and logistic aspects of UASs were more efficient than manned aircraft flights. Administratively, the first deployment of UASs is less efficient but was very flexible for subsequent deployment. Manned aircraft flights were more productive in terms of the number of acquired images, but the ground resolution of those images was lower compared with those from UASs. Frontier analysis confirmed that UASs would be economical for regular monitoring of habitats—and even more so if research personnel are trained to fly the UASs.
Backstepping Predictive Control of Hybrid Microgrids Interconnected by Neutral Point Clamped Converters
Authors: Barros J. Dionísio , Rocha Luis , Silva J. Fernando
Published: May 2021

In this work, DC and AC parts of hybrid microgrids are interconnected by a neutral point clamped—NPC converter controlled using a new backstepping predictive (BP) method. The NPC converter is controlled to operate in the DC microgrid voltage control mode or in the AC microgrid power control mode. The novel backstepping predictive controller is designed using the dq state space dynamic model of the NPC converter connected to the hybrid microgrid. The designed BP controller regulates the DC voltage or AC injected power, balances the capacitor voltages, controls the AC currents, and enforces the near unity power factor. Simulation (MATLAB/Simulink) and experimental (laboratory prototype) results show that the converter can regulate the DC voltage in the DC microgrid interconnection point, by adjusting the AC power conversion to compensate variations on the loads or on the distributed renewable energy sources in the DC microgrid. AC currents are sinusoidal with low harmonic distortion. The obtained BP controller is faster at balancing capacitor voltages than PWM (pulse width modulation) control with carrier offset. The fast AC power response allows the converter to be used as a primary frequency regulator of the AC microgrid. This research is appropriate for power and voltage control in hybrid microgrids with renewable energy.
Mitigating Children’s Pain and Anxiety during Blood Draw Using Social Robots
Authors: Smakman Matthijs H. J. , Smit Koen , Buser Lotte , Monshouwer Tom , van Putten Nigel , Trip Thymen , Schoof Coen , Preciado Daniel F. , Konijn Elly A. , van der Roest Esther M. , Tiel Groenestege Wouter M.
Published: May 2021

Young pediatric patients who undergo venipuncture or capillary blood sampling often experience high levels of pain and anxiety. This often results in distressed young patients and their parents, increased treatment times, and a higher workload for healthcare professionals. Social robots are a new and promising tool to mitigate children’s pain and anxiety. This study aims to purposefully design and test a social robot for mitigating stress and anxiety during blood draw of children. We first programmed a social robot based on the requirements expressed by experienced healthcare professionals during focus group sessions. Next, we designed a randomized controlled experiment in which the social robot was applied as a distraction method to measure its capacity to mitigate pain and anxiety in children during blood draw in a children’s hospital setting. Children who interacted with the robot showed significantly lower levels of anxiety before actual blood collection, compared to children who received regular medical treatment. Children in the middle classes of primary school (aged 6–9) seemed especially sensitive to the robot’s ability to mitigate pain and anxiety before blood draw. Children’s parents overall expressed strong positive attitudes toward the use and effectiveness of the social robot for mitigating pain and anxiety. The results of this study demonstrate that social robots can be considered a new and effective tool for lowering children’s anxiety prior to the distressing medical procedure of blood collection.
Integration of Renewable Hydrogen Production in Steelworks Off-Gases for the Synthesis of Methanol and Methane
Authors: Bampaou Michael , Panopoulos Kyriakos , Seferlis Panos , Voutetakis Spyridon , Matino Ismael , Petrucciani Alice , Zaccara Antonella , Colla Valentina , Dettori Stefano , Annunziata Branca Teresa , Iannino Vincenzo
Published: May 2021

The steel industry is among the highest carbon-emitting industrial sectors. Since the steel production process is already exhaustively optimized, alternative routes are sought in order to increase carbon efficiency and reduce these emissions. During steel production, three main carbon-containing off-gases are generated: blast furnace gas, coke oven gas and basic oxygen furnace gas. In the present work, the addition of renewable hydrogen by electrolysis to those steelworks off-gases is studied for the production of methane and methanol. Different case scenarios are investigated using AspenPlusTM flowsheet simulations, which differ on the end-product, the feedstock flowrates and on the production of power. Each case study is evaluated in terms of hydrogen and electrolysis requirements, carbon conversion, hydrogen consumption, and product yields. The findings of this study showed that the electrolysis requirements surpass the energy content of the steelwork’s feedstock. However, for the methanol synthesis cases, substantial improvements can be achieved if recycling a significant amount of the residual hydrogen.
Experimental Investigation of Free Convection Heat Transfer from Horizontal Cylinder to Nanofluids
Authors: Sawicka Dorota , Cieśliński Janusz T. , Smolen Slawomir
Published: May 2021

The results of free convection heat transfer investigation from a horizontal, uniformly heated tube immersed in a nanofluid are presented. Experiments were performed with five base fluids, i.e., ethylene glycol (EG), distilled water (W) and the mixtures of EG and water with the ratios of 60/40, 50/50, 40/60 by volume, so the Rayleigh (Ra) number range was 3 × 104 ≤ Ra ≤ 1.3 × 106 and the Prandtl (Pr) number varied from 4.4 to 176. Alumina (Al2O3) nanoparticles were tested at the mass concentrations of 0.01, 0.1 and 1%. Enhancement as well as deterioration of heat transfer performance compared to the base fluids were detected depending on the composition of the nanofluid. Based on the experimental results obtained, a correlation equation that describes the dependence of the average Nusselt (Nu) number on the Ra number, Pr number and concentration of nanoparticles is proposed.
Shipboard Power Management for Failure Mode Using the Hybrid MPC Approach
Authors: Peng Xiuyan , Wang Bo , Zhang Lanyong , Su Peng
Published: May 2021

Shipboard integrated power systems, the key technology of ship electrification, call for effective failure mode power management control strategy to achieve the safe and reliable operation in dynamic reconfiguration. Considering switch reconfiguration with system dynamics and power balance restoration after reconfiguration, in this paper, the optimization objective function of optimal management for ship failure mode is established as a hybrid model predictive control problem from the perspective of hybrid system. To meet the needs for fast computation, a hierarchical hybrid model predictive control algorithm is proposed, which divides the original optimization problem into two stages, and reduces the computation complexity by relaxing constraints and the minimum principle. By applying to a real-time simulator in two scenarios, the results verify the effectivity of the proposed method.
Optimal Control Strategies for Switchable Transparent Insulation Systems Applied to Smart Windows for US Residential Buildings
Authors: Dabbagh Mohammad , Krarti Moncef
Published: May 2021

This paper evaluates the potential energy use and peak demand savings associated with optimal controls of switchable transparent insulation systems (STIS) applied to smart windows for US residential buildings. The optimal controls are developed based on Genetic Algorithm (GA) to identify the automatic settings of the dynamic shades. First, switchable insulation systems and their operation mechanisms are briefly described when combined with smart windows. Then, the GA-based optimization approach is outlined to operate switchable insulation systems applied to windows for a prototypical US residential building. The optimized controls are implemented to reduce heating and cooling energy end-uses for a house located four US locations, during three representative days of swing, summer, and winter seasons. The performance of optimal controller is compared to that obtained using simplified rule-based control sets to operate the dynamic insulation systems. The analysis results indicate that optimized controls of STISs can save up to 81.8% in daily thermal loads compared to the simplified rule-set especially when dwellings are located in hot climates such as that of Phoenix, AZ. Moreover, optimally controlled STISs can reduce electrical peak demand by up to 49.8% compared to the simplified rule-set, indicating significant energy efficiency and demand response potentials of the SIS technology when applied to US residential buildings.
A Model of Innovation Activity in Small Enterprises in the Context of Selected Financial Factors: The Example of the Renewable Energy Sector
Authors: Kuś Agnieszka , Grego-Planer Dorota
Published: May 2021

One of the biggest problems of the modern economy is the depletion of traditional energy sources. Despite the fact that this problem was noticed several dozen years ago, steps to solve it were taken relatively recently. In December 2017, the European Union adopted a position on the directive, promoting the use of energy from renewable sources in all Member States. The EU has committed itself that by 2030, at least 27% of its energy consumption will come from renewable sources. On the one hand, it is a huge challenge, but on the other hand, it is an opportunity to achieve economic growth through innovation and a sustainable energy policy. On the Polish market, the chance to achieve the assumed plan is offered mainly by small companies that have been involved in innovative activities in the renewable energy sector in recent years. Innovation is an extraordinarily important determinant of the sustainable development of economies across the world. However, introducing it into business practice is extremely challenging for business leaders. Although there are many different factors influencing companies’ engagement in innovation activity, for smaller entities, the financial aspect plays a key role. Managers of small enterprises must frequently deal with limited access to additional financial resources, the complexity of the process of determining final cost and capital structure, and its accompanying various levels of investment risk. Small companies also struggle with certain limitations on resources related to a knowledge gap in finance, tax regulations, and the forms of support potentially available at different stages of the innovation process. In light of this, it seems reasonable to establish the strict financial factors that significantly influence the innovation activity of small enterprises, especially those operating in the energy industry, due to their dynamics of development in recent years. This article aims to develop a model to explain the financial incentives for implementing innovative solutions in small businesses in the energy sector. An empirical study using the Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewmethod on a sample of 115 Polish small companies, operating in the renewable energy sector, identified critical financial factors stimulating the implementation of innovative projects. The significance of impact of key financial factors on the innovation activity of these enterprises was analysed based on a logit regression model. The results indicate that 5 of the 18 factors identified in the model were significant. These statistically significant financial determinants of the innovation activity of Polish small enterprises in the energy sector exhibited both positive and negative impacts on the level of innovation activities undertaken.
Historical Fires Induced Deforestation in Relict Scots Pine Forests during the Late 19th Century
Authors: Camarero J. Julio , Sangüesa-Barreda Gabriel , Montiel-Molina Cristina , Luelmo-Lautenschlaeger Reyes , Ortega Paula , Génova Mar , López-Sáez José Antonio
Published: May 2021

Mountain forests are subjected to several pressures including historical land-use changes and climate warming which may lead to shifts in wildfire severity negatively impacting tree species with low post-fire growth resilience. This is the case of relict Mediterranean Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) forests in the Sierra de Gredos mountains (central Spain). We reconstructed the historical fire regime of these forests since 1700 by using paleoecology, historical ecology and dendroecology. We detected an increase in charcoal accumulation rate and coprophilous fungi in peat bogs during the late 19th century when the pine pollen percentage sharply decreased, historical records of fire peaked and many trees showed growth suppressions. We inferred an increased wildfire incidence during the late 19th century, which could have shaped the current distribution of Scots pine forests. This shift in fire-forest interactions can be explained by the uncontrolled use of mountain forests and grasslands due to the dissolution of “Mesta”, one of the major and lasting transhumance livestock associations in Europe. Integrating historical human and climate influences on fire regimes allows decomposing the resilience and conservation components of relict forests.
Biodegradable Active Packaging as an Alternative to Conventional Packaging: A Case Study with Chicken Fillets
Authors: Sarfraz Jawad , Hansen Anlaug Ådland , Haugen John-Erik , Le Trung-Anh , Nilsen Jorunn , Skaret Josefine , Huynh Tan Phat , Pettersen Marit Kvalvåg
Published: May 2021

Innovative active packaging has the potential to maintain the food quality and preserve the food safety for extended period. The aim of this study was to discover the effect of active films based on commercially available polylactic acid blend (PLAb) and natural active components on the shelf life and organoleptic properties of chicken fillets and to find out; to what extent they can be used as replacement to the traditional packaging materials. In this study, commercially available PLAb was compounded with citral and cinnamon oil. Active films with 300 µm thickness were then produced on a blown film extruder. The PLAb-based films were thermoformed into trays. Fresh chicken breast fillets were packed under two different gas compositions, modified atmosphere packaging of 60% CO2/40% N2, and 75% O2/25% CO2 and stored at 4 °C. The effect of active packaging materials and gas compositions on the drip loss, dry matter content, organoleptic properties, and microbial quality of the chicken fillets were studied over a storage time of 24 days. The presence of active components in the compounded films was confirmed with FTIR, in addition the release of active components in the headspace of the packaging was established with GC/MS. Additionally, gas barrier properties of the packages were studied. No negative impact on the drip loss and dry matter content was observed. The results show that PLAb-based active packaging can maintain the quality of the chicken fillets and have the potential to replace the traditional packaging materials, such as APET/PE trays.
Perilla Seed Oil Enhances Cognitive Function and Mental Health in Healthy Elderly Japanese Individuals by Enhancing the Biological Antioxidant Potential
Authors: Hashimoto Michio , Matsuzaki Kentaro , Hossain Shahdat , Ito Tomoko , Wakatsuki Harumi , Tanabe Yoko , Ohno Miho , Kato Setsushi , Yamashita Kazuya , Shido Osamu
Published: May 2021

Oxidative stress plays an important role in age-associated cognitive decline. We recently reported that dietary intake of perilla seed oil (PO), a rich source of α-linolenic acid (LNA, C18:3, ω-3), helps in maintaining good mental health in adults. This study aimed to investigate the impacts of dietary PO intake on cognitive functions and mental health in healthy, elderly Japanese individuals. Seventy-five healthy volunteers aged 64–84 years were randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a PO-administered group. At baseline and at 12 months of intervention, cognitive function, mental health condition, fatty acid profile of the red blood cell plasma membranes (RBC-PM), and serum biochemical parameters were evaluated. Results showed that serum biological antioxidant potential and LNA levels in the RBC-PM at 12 months after the trial were significantly higher in the PO group compared to the control group. Further, both the cognitive function measures, as evaluated by the Frontal Assessment Battery test and the apathy scores, tended to be improved after 12 months in the PO group. Our results demonstrate that dietary PO intake enhances the antioxidant potential and prevents the age-related cognitive and mental decline in healthy elderly individuals by enhancing the blood LNA levels.
Meat Quality, Fatty Acid Content and NMR Metabolic Profile of Dorper Sheep Supplemented with Bypass Fats
Authors: Behan Atique Ahmed , Akhtar Muhammad Tayyab , Loh Teck Chwen , Fakurazi Sharida , Kaka Ubedullah , Muhamad Azira , Samsudin Anjas Asmara
Published: May 2021

The supplementation of rumen bypass fat (RBF) has remained one of the preferred approaches used to decrease undesirable saturated fatty acids (FA) and increase beneficial unsaturated FA in the meat. This study was planned to evaluate the influences of rumen bypass fats on meat quality, fatty acid and metabolic profiles in male Dorper sheep (n = 36) with 24.66 ± 0.76 kg (mean ± standard error) initial body weight. Treatment comprised a basal diet (30:70 rice straw to concentrate) with no added RBF as a control (CON), basal diet with prilled fat (PF), basal diet with prilled fat plus lecithin (PFL) and basal diet with calcium soap of palm fatty acids (CaS). The findings revealed that cooking loss, drip loss and shear force in longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle were not affected by RBF supplementation, while meat pH was significantly higher in the CaS on aging day 1. However, the diet supplemented with prilled fat and lecithin modified the meat’s fatty acid profile significantly by increasing unsaturated fatty acids and decreasing saturated fats. The relative quantification of the major differentiating metabolites found in LD muscle of sheep showed that total cholesterol, esterified cholesterol, choline, glycerophosphocholine and glycerophospholipids were significantly lower in CaS and PFL diets, while glycerol and sphingomyelin were significantly higher in CaS and PFL diets. Most of the metabolites in the liver did not show any significant difference. Based on our results, the supplementation of protected fats did not have a negative influence on meat quality and the meat from Dorper sheep fed prilled fat with lecithin contained more healthy fatty acids compared to other diets.
The Egg Yolk Content in ω-3 and Conjugated Fatty Acids Can Be Sustainably Increased upon Long-Term Feeding of Laying Hens with a Diet Containing Flaxseeds and Pomegranate Seed Oil
Authors: Ngo Njembe Monique T. , Dejonghe Louis , Verstraelen Eleonore , Mignolet Eric , Leclercq Matthieu , Dailly Hélène , Gardin Cécile , Buchet Marine , Waingeh Nain Caroline , Larondelle Yvan
Published: May 2021

Long-term feeding trials examining the incorporation of conjugated linolenic acids (CLnA) into the diet of laying hens are lacking. In the present study, we compared two diets in sixty-six red Sex-Link hens (33 hens/treatment), fed for 26 weeks. The control diet was high in oleic acid, while the test diet was high in α-linolenic acid (ALA) and punicic acid (PunA). No significant differences were observed between treatments for hens’ performance, egg weight and yolk weight. In contrast, dietary ALA and PunA resulted in a significant increase in n-3 PUFA, rumenic acid (RmA) and PunA contents in egg yolk, as well as in the liver, heart, muscle and adipose tissue of the hens. Other conjugated dienes resulting from the metabolism of PunA or RmA also accumulated in the egg yolk and tissues. Unlike DHA, which was exclusively distributed in phospholipids, ALA, RmA and PunA were preferably distributed in triglycerides.
The EU at Stake? Changes in European Identification in Southern Europe and in Germany Following the Great Recession
Authors: Pérez-Nievas Santiago , Paradés Marta
Published: May 2021

This article looks at the evolution of European identification during the Great Recession in four Southern European “debtor” countries and in Germany. Although the crisis initially had a negative effect on European identification in the five countries, its medium-term impact was more severe in the Southern European countries than in Germany. While we find that microeconomic variables shed little light to account for these changes, we combine multilevel institutional and identitarian approaches to explain changes in European Identification. Following the multilevel institutional argument, attitudes might depend not only on citizens perceptions of institutional performance at the European level, but also on their perceptions of institutional performance at the national level; and they can operate through two mechanisms: citizens might transfer their positive (or negative) evaluations from the national to the European level, or, alternatively, they may substitute or compensate their negative national evaluations with positive evaluations of the European level. Our results indicate that both mechanisms were at work: at the peak of the Eurozone crisis, substitution effects—especially in the countries of the South—helped sustain European identification when it was at its weakest. However, transfer effects were also relevant to explain the recovery of European identification in two of the three countries in which the latter was greatest: Germany and Portugal. Following the identitarian argument, we find that the positive effect that national identification had on European identification previous to the Great Recession, had disappeared or weakened in four of the five cases by 2014. Nonetheless, this positive relationship had been fully restored in Germany and Portugal after the Great Recession, in 2017, signalling that the fading link between the two identifications might have been only temporary, at least in these two countries.
Lake Qooqa as a Narrative: Finding Meanings in Social Memory (A Narrative Inquiry)
Authors: Dibaba Assefa Tefera
Published: May 2021

Lake Qooqa in Oromia/Ethiopia started out as a man-made lake back in the 1960s, formed by the damming of the Awash River and other rivers for a practical function, i.e., for hydroelectric power. The lake flooded over the surrounding picturesque landscape, shattered sacred sites and the livelihoods of the Siiba Oromo, and damaged the ecosystem in the area, which was later resuscitated to have an aesthetic function for tourists. Available sources showed that people used the lake for irrigation, washing, fishing, and drinking, while tanneries, flower farms, and manufacturing facilities for soap and plastic products were set up along the banks without enough environmental impact assessment and virtually with no regulations on how to get rid of their effluents, which contained dangerous chemicals such as arsenic, mercury, chromium, lead, and cadmium, giving the lake a blue and green color locally called bulee; hence, the name the “Green Lake”. In the present study, following a string of “narrative turns” in other disciplinary fields of humanities and social sciences (folklore, history, and anthropology), I use social memory and life hi/story narratives from Amudde, Arsi, Oromia/Ethiopia, to consider a few methodological and theoretical questions of folkloric and ecological nature in doing a narrative study: What is social memory? What does social memory reveal about the people and the environment in which they live? Is a personal narrative story folklore? Where do stories come from? What should the researcher do with the stories s/he collected? Hence, this study aims to tackle two objectives: first, using social memory data as a means to connect social identity and historical memory set in a social context in which people shape their group identity and debate conflicting views of the past, I explore the Green Lake as a narrative, which is, in its current situation, a prototypical image of degradation and anthropogenic impacts, and trace trajectories and meanings of social memory about the shared past, i.e., the historical grief of loss that people in the study area carry in their memory pool. Second, toward this end, I use people’s stories from the research site, particularly Amina’s story about the loss of seven members of her family from complications related to drinking the polluted water, as evidence to show, sharing Sandra Dolby Stahl’s claim, that the narrative of personal experience belongs in folklore studies to the established genre of the family story.
Prevention and Treatment of Phlebitis Secondary to the Insertion of a Peripheral Venous Catheter: A Scoping Review from a Nursing Perspective
Authors: Guanche-Sicilia Aitana , Sánchez-Gómez María Begoña , Castro-Peraza María Elisa , Rodríguez-Gómez José Ángel , Gómez-Salgado Juan , Duarte-Clíments Gonzalo
Published: May 2021

The objective of this work was to identify available evidence on nursing interventions for the prevention and treatment of phlebitis secondary to the insertion of a peripheral venous catheter. For this, a scoping systematic review was carried out following the guidelines in the PRISMA declaration of documents published between January 2015 and December 2020. The search took place between December 2020 and January 2021. Scielo, Pubmed, Medline, Scopus, WOS, CINHAL, LILACS, and Dialnet databases were consulted, and CASPe, AGREE, and HICPAC tools were used for the critical reading. A total of 52 studies were included to analyze nursing interventions for treatment and prevention. Nursing interventions to prevent phlebitis and ensure a proper catheter use included those related to the maintenance of intravenous therapy, asepsis, and choosing the dressing. With regard to the nursing interventions to treat phlebitis, these were focused on vigilance and caring and also on the use of medical treatment protocols. For the prevention of phlebitis, the highest rated evidence regarding asepsis include the topical use of >0.5% chlorhexidine preparation with 70% alcohol or 2% aqueous chlorhexidine, a proper hygienic hand washing, and the use clean gloves to handle connections and devices. Actions that promote the efficacy and safety of intravenous therapy include maintenance of venous access, infusion volume control, verification of signs of phlebitis during saline solution and medication administration, and constant monitoring. It is recommended to remove any catheter that is not essential. Once discharged from hospital, it will be necessary to warn the patient about signs of phlebitis after PVC removal.
Urban Quality of Life: Spatial Modeling and Indexing in Athens Metropolitan Area, Greece
Authors: Faka Antigoni , Kalogeropoulos Kleomenis , Maloutas Thomas , Chalkias Christos
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study is to assess and visualize the Quality of Life provided by urban space as a place of residence. The proposed methodology, after its theoretical documentation, is implemented in Athens Metropolitan Area, Greece. For the evaluation of Urban Quality of Life, a complex index is constructed by using multicriteria analysis. For this purpose, Quality of Life controlling factors such as built space, natural, socioeconomic, and cultural environment, infrastructure and services, and the quality of housing were analyzed within a GIS environment. The mapping of this index led to the identification of areas with different levels of Quality of Life. The results of the research can lead to more effective decision making regarding the planning of targeted actions and the distribution of financial resources to improve the Quality of Life of the residents in urban areas.
International Journal of Translational Medicine: An Interdisciplinary Open Access Journal to Publish Your Biomedical Research with a “Bench-to-Bedside” Approach
Authors: Claudio Pier
Published: May 2021

The International Journal of Translational Medicine (ISSN 2673-8937) is an open access journal that lays its foundation in a diverse editorial board that takes advantage from the distinctive expertise of the various members [...]
The Role of Climate Change in the Assessment of the Seismic Resilience of Infrastructures
Authors: Forcellini Davide
Published: May 2021

Climate change is modifying scientific attitudes toward pre- and post-event assessments of natural hazards. Unprecedented levels of destruction need renewed focus on addressing and protecting communities forcing the decision makers to change their attention to vulnerability and risk assessment. In particular, society and economy rely heavily on infrastructures, as fundamental links for movement of goods and people, and are extremely vulnerable to multiple hazards (such as droughts, floods, storms, and coastal hazards). In this regard, resilience quantifies the recovery time and procedures to facilitate and enhance pre-hazard and post-hazard event mitigation and emergency response strategies of systems and entire communities. Resilience calculation depends on two important contributions: loss and recovery models that need to consider the effects of climate change. This paper aims to propose a methodology that implements the most recent approaches to assess climate change inside the traditional framework of resilience. The proposed framework is then applied to a case study of a bridge.
Sterile Insect Technique: Successful Suppression of an Aedes aegypti Field Population in Cuba
Authors: Gato René , Menéndez Zulema , Prieto Enrique , Argilés Rafael , Rodríguez Misladys , Baldoquín Waldemar , Hernández Yisel , Pérez Dennis , Anaya Jorge , Fuentes Ilario , Lorenzo Claudia , González Keren , Campo Yudaisi , Bouyer Jérémy
Published: May 2021

Dengue virus infections are a serious public health problem worldwide. Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of dengue in Cuba. As there is no vaccine or specific treatment, the control efforts are directed to the reduction of mosquito populations. The indiscriminate use of insecticides can lead to adverse effects on ecosystems, including human health. The sterile insect technique is a species-specific and environment-friendly method of insect population control based on the release of large numbers of sterile insects, ideally males only. The success of this technique for the sustainable management of agricultural pests has encouraged its evaluation for the population suppression of mosquito vector species. Here, we describe an open field trial to evaluate the effect of the release of irradiated male Ae. aegypti on a wild population. The pilot trial was carried out in a suburb of Havana and compared the mosquito population density before and after the intervention, in both untreated control and release areas. The wild population was monitored by an ovitrap network, recording frequency and density of eggs as well as their hatch rate. A significant amount of sterility was induced in the field population of the release area, as compared with the untreated control area. The ovitrap index and the mean number of eggs/trap declined dramatically after 12 and 5 weeks of releases, respectively. For the last 3 weeks, no eggs were collected in the treatment area, clearly indicating a significant suppression of the wild target population. We conclude that the sterile males released competed successfully and induced enough sterility to suppress the local Ae. aegypti population.
Platelet Receptor Activity for Predicting Survival in Patients with Intracranial Bleeding
Authors: Dragan Barbara , Adamik Barbara , Burzynska Malgorzata , Dragan Szymon Lukasz , Gozdzik Waldemar
Published: May 2021

Blood coagulation disorders in patients with intracranial bleeding as a result of head injuries or ruptured aneurysms are a diagnostic and therapeutic problem and appropriate assessments are needed to limit CNS damage and to implement preventive measures. The aim of the study was to monitor changes in platelet aggregation and to assess the importance of platelet dysfunction for predicting survival. Platelet receptor function analysis was performed using the agonists arachidonic acid (ASPI), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), collagen (COL), thrombin receptor activating protein (TRAP), ristocetin (RISTO) upon admission to the ICU and on days 2, 3, and 5. On admission, the ASPI, ADP, COL, TRAP, and RISTO tests indicated there was reduced platelet aggregation, despite there being a normal platelet count. In ‘Non-survivors’, the platelet response to all agonists was suppressed throughout the study period, while in ‘Survivors’ it improved. Measuring platelet function in ICU patients with intracranial bleeding is a strong predictor related to outcome: patients with impaired platelet aggregation had a lower 28-day survival rate compared to patients with normal platelet aggregation (log-rank test p = 0.014). The results indicated that measuring platelet aggregation can be helpful in the early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of bleeding disorders.
RETRACTED: Developing a Cybersecurity Framework for e-Government Project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alrubaiq Abdullah , Alharbi Talal
Published: May 2021

The evolution of information systems has escalated significantly within the last decade as research unveils new concepts. The general orientation to provide solutions to complex problems continues to inspire innovation and new advancements. Cybersecurity is emerging as a critical factor for consideration within the resultant paradigm as information systems become significantly integrated. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of cybersecurity within the context of information systems. The paper examines some of the most consequential aspects of cybersecurity from the perspective of an e-government project in Saudi Arabia. A holistic system is proposed within the research framework to incorporate various scientific guidelines. The general orientation of this research is predicated on the aspiration to design and implement a complex and robust framework within which an e-government system can thrive within the Saudi Arabian context. A consideration of the physical environment within which the project will operate is also made, focusing on security. An evaluation of the cybersecurity environment in Saudi Arabia is reflective of significant advancements that have occurred in information system domains within the past few years.
Temperature Study during the Edge Trimming of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic [0]8/Ti6Al4V Stack Material
Authors: Castillo-Morales Arquimedes , Rimpault Xavier , Chatelain Jean-François , Lebrun Gilbert
Published: May 2021

Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) and Titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) stacks are used extensively in the modern aerospace industry thanks to their outstanding mechanical properties and resistance to thermal load applications. Machining the CFRP/Ti6Al4V stack is a challenge and is complicated by the differences in each constituent materials’ machinability. The difficulty arises from the matrix degradation of the CFRP material caused by the heat generated during the machining process, which is a consequence of the low thermal conductivity of Ti6Al4V material. In most cases, CFRP and Ti6Al4V materials are stacked and secured together using rivets or bolts. This results in extra weight, while the drilling process required for such an assembly may damage the CFRP material. To overcome these issues, some applications employ an assembly that is free of bolts or rivets, and which uses adhesives or an adapted curing process to bond both materials together. The present research analyzes a thermal distribution and its effect on quality during the edge trimming process of a CFRP/Ti6Al4V stack assembly. Different types of tools and cutting parameters are compared using thermocouples embedded within the material and others on the tool cutting edge. In contrast to previous studies, the feed rate was the most significant factor affecting the cutting temperature and quality of the workpiece, while the cutting speed had no significant impact. The temperature in the workpiece increases as the feed per tooth decreases.
TiAl6V4 Alloy Surface Modifications and Their Impact on Biofilm Development of S. aureus and S. epidermidis
Authors: Paulitsch-Fuchs Astrid H. , Wolrab Lukas , Eck Nicole , Dyer Nigel P. , Bödendorfer Benjamin , Lohberger Birgit
Published: May 2021

One of the most serious complications following joint replacement surgeries are periprosthetic infections (PIs) arising from the adhesion of bacteria to the artificial joint. Various types of titanium–aluminum–vanadium (TiAl6V4) alloy surface modifications (coatings with silver (Ag), titanium nitride (TiN), pure titanium (cpTi), combinations of cpTi and hydroxyapatite (HA), combinations of cpTi and tricalcium phosphate (TCP), and a rough-blasted surface of TiAl6V4) have been investigated to assess their effects on biofilm development. Biofilms were grown, collected, and analyzed after 48 h to measure their protein and glucose content and the cell viability. Biofilm-associated genes were also monitored after 48 h of development. There was a distinct difference in the development of staphylococcal biofilms on the surfaces of the different types of alloy. According to the findings of this study, the base alloy TiAl6V4 and the TiN-coated surface are the most promising materials for biofilm reduction. Rough surfaces are most favorable when it comes to bacterial infections because they allow an easy attachment of pathogenic organisms. Of all rough surfaces tested, rough-blasted TiAl6V4 was the most favorable as an implantation material; all the other rough surfaces showed more distinct signs of inducing the development of biofilms which displayed higher protein and polysaccharide contents. These results are supported by RT-qPCR measurements of biofilm associated genes for Staphylococcus aureus (icaA, icaC, fnbA, fnbB, clfB, atl) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (atle, aap).
Psychoactive Medication, Violence, and Variant Alleles for Cytochrome P450 Genes
Authors: Eikelenboom-Schieveld Selma J. M. , Fogleman James C.
Published: May 2021

From the start of the use of psychoactive prescription medications in the 1950s, physicians reported paradoxical adverse reactions, ranging from newly developing depressions to an increase in existing mood disorders, and extremely violent and bizarre acts of suicide and homicide. It is hypothesized that interactions between the drugs and the enzymes that are primarily responsible for their metabolism (cytochrome P450s) could cause these reactions. In this research, we evaluate statistical associations between CYP450 variant alleles, psychoactive medication, and acts of violence. Fifty-five persons who showed violent behavior or an altered emotional state were investigated for prescribed medication. Fifty-eight volunteers with no history of violence served as the controls. Genetic testing was performed on CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. Statistical analysis was applied to gender, age, number of variant alleles, number and kind of medications, and potential drug–drug, drug–gene, and drug–drug–gene interactions. Four risk factors for developing an altered emotional state and/or acts of violence were identified. There is an association between prescription drugs (most notably antidepressants and other psychoactive medication), having variant alleles for CYP450 genes, and altered emotional states or acts of violence.