bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupled Fluid-Thermal Investigation on Drag and Heat Reduction of a Hypersonic Spiked Blunt Body with an Aerodisk
Authors: Fan Bing , Huang Jie
Published: December 2021

In the traditional investigations on the drag and heat reduction of hypersonic spiked models, only the aerodynamic calculation is performed, and the structural temperature cannot be obtained. This paper adopted the loosely coupled method to study its efficiency of drag and heat reduction, in which the feedback effect of wall temperature rise on aeroheating is considered. The aeroheating and structural temperature were obtained by the CFD and ABAQUS software respectively. The coupling analysis of the hypersonic circular tube was carried out to verify the accuracy of the fluid field, the structural temperature, and the coupled method. Compared with experimental results, the calculated results showed that the relative errors of stagnation heat flux and stagnation temperature were 1.34% and 4.95% respectively, and thus the effectiveness of the coupled method was verified. Installing a spike reduced the total drag of the forebody. The spiked model with an aerodisk reduced the aeroheating of the forebody, while the model without an aerodisk intensified the aeroheating. The spiked model with a planar aerodisk had the best performance on drag and heat reduction among all the models. In addition, increasing the length of the spike reduced the drag and temperature of the forebody. With the increase of the length, the change rates of drag, pressure, heat flux, and temperature decreased gradually. Increasing the diameter of the aerodisk also reduced the temperature of the forebody, while the efficiency of forebody drag reduction first increased and then decreased. In conclusion, the heat and drag reduction must be considered comprehensively for the optimal design of the spike.
Mechanism and Performance Differences between the SSG/LRR-ω and SST Turbulence Models in Separated Flows
Authors: Bai Ruijie , Li Jinping , Zeng Fanzhi , Yan Chao
Published: December 2021

Accurate predictions of flow separation are important for aerospace design, flight accident avoidance, and the development of fluid mechanics. However, the complexity of the separation process makes accurate predictions challenging for all known Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) methods, and the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. This paper analyzes the specific reasons for the defective predictions of the turbulence models applied to separated flows, explores the physical properties that impact the predictions, and investigates their specific mechanisms. Taking the Menter SST and the Speziale-Sarkar–Gatski/Launder–Reece–Rodi (SSG/LRR)-ω models as representatives, three typical separated flow cases are calculated. The performance differences between the two turbulence models applied to the different separated flow calculations are then compared. Refine the vital physical properties and analyze their calculation from the basic assumptions, modeling ideas, and construction of the turbulence models. The numerical results show that the underestimation of Reynolds stress is a significant factor in the unsatisfactory prediction of separation. In the SST model, Bradshaw’s assumption imposes the turbulent energy equilibrium condition in all regions and the eddy–viscosity coefficient is underestimated, which leads to advanced separation and lagging reattachment. In the SSG/LRR-ω model, the fidelity with which the pressure–strain term is modeled is a profound factor affecting the calculation accuracy.
Detection of Cytopathic Effects Induced by Influenza, Parainfluenza, and Enterovirus Using Deep Convolution Neural Network
Authors: Chen Jen-Jee , Lin Po-Han , Lin Yi-Ying , Pu Kun-Yi , Wang Chu-Feng , Lin Shang-Yi , Chen Tzung-Shi
Published: December 2021

The isolation of a virus using cell culture to observe its cytopathic effects (CPEs) is the main method for identifying the viruses in clinical specimens. However, the observation of CPEs requires experienced inspectors and excessive time to inspect the cell morphology changes. In this study, we utilized artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the efficiency of virus identification. After some comparisons, we used ResNet-50 as a backbone with single and multi-task learning models to perform deep learning on the CPEs induced by influenza, enterovirus, and parainfluenza. The accuracies of the single and multi-task learning models were 97.78% and 98.25%, respectively. In addition, the multi-task learning model increased the accuracy of the single model from 95.79% to 97.13% when only a few data of the CPEs induced by parainfluenza were provided. We modified both models by inserting a multiplexer and de-multiplexer layer, respectively, to increase the correct rates for known cell lines. In conclusion, we provide a deep learning structure with ResNet-50 and the multi-task learning model and show an excellent performance in identifying virus-induced CPEs.
Identification of Pre-Diabetic Biomarkers in the Progression of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Lee Jae-Ho , Kim Do-Young , Pantha Rubee , Lee Eun-Ho , Bae Jae-Hoon , Han Eugene , Song Dae-Kyu , Kwon Taeg Kyu , Im Seung-Soon
Published: December 2021

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major global health issue. The development of T2DM is gradual and preceded by the pre-diabetes mellitus (pre-DM) stage, which often remains undiagnosed. This study aimed to identify novel pre-DM biomarkers in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced pre-DM mouse model. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed either a chow diet or HFD for 12 weeks. Serum and liver samples were isolated in a time-dependent manner. Semi-quantitative assessment of secretory cytokines was performed by cytokine array analysis, and 13 cytokines were selected for further analysis based on the changes in expression levels in the pre-DM and T2DM stages. HFD-fed mice gained body weight and exhibited high serum lipid, liver enzyme, glucose, and insulin levels during the progression of pre-DM to T2DM. The mRNA expression of inflammatory and lipogenic genes was elevated in HFD-fed mice The mRNA expression of Fc receptor, IgG, low affinity Iib, lectin, galactose binding, soluble 1, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5, and growth arrest specific 6 was elevated in the pre-DM, which was confirmed by measuring protein levels. Our study identified novel pre-DM biomarkers that may help to delay or prevent the progression of T2DM.
An Efficient Coding Technique for Stochastic Processes
Authors: García Jesús , González-López Verónica , Tasca Gustavo , Yaginuma Karina
Published: December 2021

In the framework of coding theory, under the assumption of a Markov process (Xt) on a finite alphabet A, the compressed representation of the data will be composed of a description of the model used to code the data and the encoded data. Given the model, the Huffman’s algorithm is optimal for the number of bits needed to encode the data. On the other hand, modeling (Xt) through a Partition Markov Model (PMM) promotes a reduction in the number of transition probabilities needed to define the model. This paper shows how the use of Huffman code with a PMM reduces the number of bits needed in this process. We prove the estimation of a PMM allows for estimating the entropy of (Xt), providing an estimator of the minimum expected codeword length per symbol. We show the efficiency of the new methodology on a simulation study and, through a real problem of compression of DNA sequences of SARS-CoV-2, obtaining in the real data at least a reduction of 10.4%.
Combined ReaxFF and Ab Initio MD Simulations of Brown Coal Oxidation and Coal–Water Interactions
Authors: Yu Shi , Chu Ruizhi , Li Xiao , Wu Guoguang , Meng Xianliang
Published: December 2021

In this manuscript, we use a combination of Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics (CPMD) and ReaxFF reactive molecular dynamics (ReaxFF-MD) simulations to study the brown coal–water interactions and coal oxidation. Our Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics simulation results reveal that hydrogen bonds dominate the water adsorption process, and oxygen-containing functional groups such as carboxyl play an important role in the interaction between brown coal and water. The discrepancy in hydrogen bonds formation between our simulation results by ab initio molecular dynamics (CPMD) and that by ReaxFF-MD indicates that the ReaxFF force field is not capable of accurately describing the diffusive behaviors of water on lignite at low temperatures. The oxidations of brown coal for both fuel rich and fuel lean conditions at various temperatures were investigated using ReaxFF-MD simulations through which the generation rates of major products were obtained. In addition, it was observed that the density decrease significantly enhances the generation of gaseous products due to the entropy gain by reducing system density. Although the ReaxFF-MD simulation of complete coal combustion process is limited to high temperatures, the combined CPMD and ReaxFF-MD simulations allow us to examine the correlation between water adsorption on brown coal and the initial stage of coal oxidation.
Equivalent Model of Photovoltaic Power Station Considering Different Generation Units’ Fault Current Contributions
Authors: Liu Sumei , Zhang Hao , Zhang Peng , Li Zhongqing , Wang Zepeng
Published: December 2021

The fault current calculation model of photovoltaic (PV) power stations is usually treated as a capacity weighted equivalent model of a single PV generation unit (PVGU). However, in the same PV power station, different PVGUs have various fault current characteristics. As a result, there are significant differences in fault current characteristics between a PVGU and a PV power station. It means that the existing capacity weighted equivalent model cannot be used for accurately describing the fault current contributions from a practical PV power station. In this paper, the fault behaviors of the PVGUs located at different access points of a PV power station are firstly analyzed. The difference in PVGUs’ fault current contributions is identified and reflected with the activation states of current limiters that are employed for PV inverters. The activation states are represented by a theoretical expression so as to distinguish the PVGUs’ fault contributions. Further, based on the proposed theoretical expression, a novel algorithm is developed for sorting all PVGUs included in a PV power station. The multi-machine calculation model is deduced in order to exactly express the fault current contribution from a PV station. Finally, some simulation tests are conducted. The tested results verify the effectiveness of the proposed calculation model. It can provide support for calculating the protection setting of power grid connected with large-scale PV stations.
Digital Postal Operator as an Important Element of the National Energy Security System
Authors: Drab-Kurowska Anna , Drożdż Wojciech
Published: December 2021

This article presents a solution that strengthens information security in critical infrastructure entities. Critical infrastructure plays a key role in the functioning of the state and the life of its citizens. Therefore, the protection of critical infrastructure is one of priorities in Poland. The aim of this article is to show that designated postal operators may become an important link in the process of information flow and cybersecurity. Based on their multiple-year experience and expended competences, the operators may provide digital services for entities responsible for the energy security infrastructure. Verification of this goal is necessary, since critical infrastructure is exposed to growing threats, both in the area of energy and other sensitive sectors of the economy. Research results presented in the article were obtained by conducting a CATI survey. The study used the purposeful selection method, which allows to influence the structure of a sample in the context of goals set by the authors. The method solicited key information from experts on postal and energy markets. The results constitute a new approach to the role of the designated postal operator. The authors analysed possibilities to support entities that secure critical infrastructure, including those from the energy sector. It shows that the role of the designated postal operator may significantly change. Taking into account the security of information and cybersecurity, the postal operator could expand its competences, secure infrastructure-related information flow, and thus become a key pillar of the state.
Wearable Shoe-Mounted Piezoelectric Energy Harvester for a Self-Powered Wireless Communication System
Authors: Jeong Se Yeong , Xu Liang Liang , Ryu Chul Hee , Kumar Anuruddh , Hong Seong Do , Jeon Deok Hwan , Cho Jae Yong , Ahn Jung Hwan , Joo Yun Hwan , Jeong In Wha , Hwang Won Seop , Sung Tae Hyun
Published: December 2021

This study covers a self-powered wireless communication system that is powered using a piezoelectric energy harvester (PEH) in a shoe. The lead-zirconate-titanate (PZT) ceramic of the PEH was coated with UV resin, which (after curing under UV light) allowed it to withstand periodic pressure. The PEH was designed with a simple structure and placed under the sole of a shoe. The durability of the PEH was tested using a pushing tester and its applicability in shoes was examined. With periodic compression of 60 kg, the PEH produced 52 μW of energy at 280 kΩ. The energy generated by the PEH was used to power a wireless transmitter. A step-down converter with an under-voltage lockout function was used to gather enough energy to operate the wireless transmitter. The transmitter can be operated initially after walking 24 steps. After the transmitter has been activated, it can be operated again after 8 steps. Because a control center receives signals from the transmitter, it is possible to check the status of workers who work outside at night or mostly alone, to detect emergencies.
Characteristic Analysis and Experimental Verification of Electromagnetic and Vibration/Noise Aspects of Fractional-Slot Concentrated Winding IPMSMs of e-Bike
Authors: Lee Young-Geun , Bang Tae-Kyoung , Lee Jeong-In , Woo Jong-Hyeon , Jo Sung-Tae , Choi Jang-Young
Published: December 2021

In this study, we performed the electromagnetic and mechanical characteristic analyses of an 8-pole 12-slot interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM). Permanent magnet synchronous motors are classified into surface permanent magnet synchronous motor and interior permanent magnet synchronous motors according to the type of rotor. The IPM type is advantageous for high-speed operation because of the structure where the permanent magnet is embedded inside the rotor, and it has the advantage of having a high output density by generating not only the magnetic torque of the permanent magnet, but also the reluctance torque. However, such a motor has more vibration/noise sources than other types, owing to changes in reluctance. The sources of motor noise/vibration can be broadly classified into electromagnetic, mechanical, and aerodynamic sources. Electromagnetic noise sources are classified into electromagnetic excitation sources, torque pulsations, and unbalanced magnetic forces (UMFs). Vibration and noise cause machine malfunctions and affect the entire system. Therefore, it is important to analyze the electromagnetic vibration source. In this study, the electromagnetic characteristics of an IPMSM were analyzed through the finite element method to derive the UMF. Vibration and noise analyses were performed by electromagnetic–mechanical coupling analysis, and vibration and noise characteristics based on electromagnetic noise sources were analyzed.
A Study the Effect of Biodiesel Blends and the Injection Timing on Performance and Emissions of Common Rail Diesel Engines
Authors: Nghia Nguyen Tuan , Khoa Nguyen Xuan , Cho Wonjun , Lim Ocktaeck
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a study on the effect of the ratio of biodiesel and injection timing on the performance of diesel engines and their emissions. The research engine is a cylinder engine AVL-5402, simulated by software AVL-Boost. The simulated fuel includes fossil diesel and biodiesel blended with a replacement rate from 0% to 50%, with a simulation mode of 2200 (rev/min), at a rate of a 25%, 50% and 75% load. In this speed range, the engine has the lowest fuel consumption. The parameters to be evaluated are power, fuel consumption and emissions, based on the proportions of blended biodiesel. The results show that there is a relationship between the proportion of blended biodiesel, injection timing and the parameters of the engine. Specifically, the ratio of the biodiesel blend increases, injection timing tends to move closer to the top dead center (TDC), the tendency reduce engine power, fuel consumption increases, the emissions of CO and soot reduces, while NOx increases.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of a Velocity Compounded Radial Re-Entry Turbine for Small-Scale Waste Heat Recovery
Authors: Weiß Andreas P. , Stümpfl Dominik , Streit Philipp , Shoemaker Patrick , Hildebrandt Thomas
Published: December 2021

The energy industry must change dramatically in order to reduce CO2-emissions and to slow down climate change. Germany, for example, decided to shut down all large nuclear (2022) and fossil thermal power plants by 2038. Power generation will then rely on fluctuating renewables such as wind power and solar. However, thermal power plants will still play a role with respect to waste incineration, biomass, exploitation of geothermal wells, concentrated solar power (CSP), power-to-heat-to-power plants (P2H2P), and of course waste heat recovery (WHR). While the multistage axial turbine has prevailed for the last hundred years in power plants of the several hundred MW class, this architecture is certainly not the appropriate solution for small-scale waste heat recovery below 1 MW or even below 100 kW. Simpler, cost-effective turbo generators are required. Therefore, the authors examine uncommon turbine architectures that are known per se but were abandoned when power plants grew due to their poor efficiency compared to the multistage axial machines. One of these concepts is the so-called Elektra turbine, a velocity compounded radial re-entry turbine. The paper describes the concept of the Elektra turbine in comparison to other turbine concepts, especially other velocity compounded turbines, such as the Curtis type. In the second part, the 1D design and 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) optimization of the 5 kW air turbine demonstrator is explained. Finally, experimentally determined efficiency characteristics of various early versions of the Elektra are presented, compared, and critically discussed regarding the originally defined design approach. The unsteady CFD calculation of the final Elektra version promised 49.4% total-to-static isentropic efficiency, whereas the experiments confirmed 44.5%.
Adaline-Based Control Schemes for Non-Sinusoidal Multiphase Drives—Part II: Torque Optimization for Faulty Mode
Authors: Vu Duc Tan , Nguyen Ngac Ky , Semail Eric , Wu Hailong
Published: December 2021

Fault tolerance has been known as one of the main advantages of multiphase drives. When an open-circuit fault happens, smooth torque can be obtained without any additional hardware. However, a reconfiguration strategy is required to determine new reference currents. Despite advantages of non-sinusoidal electromotive forces (NS-EMFs) such as high torque density, multi-harmonics existing in NS-EMFs cause more challenges for control, especially under faulty conditions. Therefore, to guarantee high-quality vector control of multiphase drives with multi-harmonic NS-EMFs, this two-part study proposes control schemes using adaptive linear neurons (Adalines) to adaptively eliminate torque ripples. The proposed simple Adalines are efficient because of taking advantage of the knowledge of rotor position and of torque harmonic rank induced by the NS-EMFs. The control scheme using an Adaline for healthy mode was described in part I of this study. In this second part, the control scheme using another Adaline for an open-circuit operation, under the impacts of multi-harmonics in NS-EMFs, is proposed. Notably, smooth torque and similar copper losses in the remaining healthy phases can be obtained. Experimental tests are carried out on a seven-phase permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) with a high total harmonic distortion (THD = 38%) of NS-EMFs. A demonstration video is provided with this paper.
Numerical Study of Bamboo Breakwater for Wave Reduction
Authors: Armono Haryo Dwito , Bromo Briangga Herswastio , Sholihin  , Sujantoko
Published: December 2021

Flood inundation and shoreline erosion have long occurred in Sayung, Demak area, the northern coast of Central Java Province, Indonesia. The people of Sayung planted mangroves to reduce the flood inundation and shoreline erosion in that area. They built the bamboo array to protect the juvenile mangroves from incoming waves. The bamboo acts as a breakwater and is considered an environmentally friendly permeable structure to reduce wave energy and stimulate sedimentation. This paper discusses three bamboo arrays’ effectiveness in wave reduction using Numerical Wave Tank (NWT). The interaction of regular waves with a permeable structure comprising a single row of vertical circular poles was conducted based on the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method. The effect of different waves and structural dimensions on the permeable structure was investigated based on the structure’s transmission coefficient (Kt) performance. The investigations have revealed that structures with the combination of Vertical-Horizontal formation (VH) attenuate more wave energy than Vertical Only (VO) and the combination of Vertical-Diagonal formation (VD). As the wave steepness increases, the transmission coefficient decreases. Likewise, the transmission coefficient (Kt) is decreasing when the wave height is increasing. On the other hand, the transmission coefficient (Kt) increases as the wave period increases. As the structure spacing ratio between end-to-end and center-to-center spacing (e/S) rises, the transmission coefficient (Kt) also increases. The diameter (D) has a slight effect on the transmission coefficient (Kt). However, the center-to-center spacing (S) has a more significant impact than the diameter on the transmission coefficient, affecting an inclination on the transmission coefficient (Kt) when center-to-center spacing (S) goes up.
A Semi-Lagrangian Godunov-Type Method without Numerical Viscosity for Shocks
Authors: Nikonov Valeriy
Published: December 2021

One of the most important and complex effects in compressible fluid flow simulation is a shock-capturing mechanism. Numerous high-resolution Euler-type methods have been proposed to resolve smooth flow scales accurately and to capture the discontinuities simultaneously. One of the disadvantages of these methods is a numerical viscosity for shocks. In the shock, the flow parameters change abruptly at a distance equal to the mean free path of a gas molecule, which is much smaller than the cell size of the computational grid. Due to the numerical viscosity, the aforementioned Euler-type methods stretch the parameter change in the shock over few grid cells. We introduce a semi-Lagrangian Godunov-type method without numerical viscosity for shocks. Another well-known approach is a method of characteristics that has no numerical viscosity and uses the Riemann invariants or solvers for water hammer phenomenon modeling, but in its formulation the convective terms are typically neglected. We use a similar approach to solve the one-dimensional adiabatic gas dynamics equations, but we split the equations into parts describing convection and acoustic processes separately, with corresponding different time steps. When we are looking for the solution to the one-dimensional problem of the scalar hyperbolic conservation law by the proposed method, we additionally use the iterative Godunov exact solver, because the Riemann invariants are non-conserved for moderate and strong shocks in an ideal gas. The proposed method belongs to a group of particle-in-cell (PIC) methods; to the best of the author’s knowledge, there are no similar PIC numerical schemes using the Riemann invariants or the iterative Godunov exact solver. This article describes the application of the aforementioned method for the inviscid Burgers’ equation, adiabatic gas dynamics equations, and the one-dimensional scalar hyperbolic conservation law. The numerical analysis results for several test cases (e.g., the standard shock-tube problem of Sod, the Riemann problem of Lax, the double expansion wave problem, the Shu–Osher shock-tube problem) are compared with the exact solution and Harten’s data. In the shock for the proposed method, the flow properties change instantaneously (with an accuracy dependent on the grid cell size). The iterative Godunov exact solver determines the accuracy of the proposed method for flow discontinuities. In calculations, we use the iteration termination condition less than 10−5 to find the pressure difference between the current and previous iterations.
Digital Contact Tracing and COVID-19: Design, Deployment, and Current Use in Italy
Authors: Scrivano Noemi , Gulino Rosario Alfio , Giansanti Daniele
Published: December 2021

The technological innovation of digital contact tracing (DCT) has certainly characterized the COVID-19 pandemic, as compared to the previous ones. Based on the first studies, considerable support was expected from smartphone applications (“apps”) for DCT. This commentary focuses on digital contact tracing. Its contributions are threefold: (a) Recall the initial expectations of these technologies and the state of diffusion. (b) Deal with the introduction of the app “Immuni” in Italy, while also highlighting the initiatives undertaken at the government level. (c) Report the state of diffusion and use of this App. The commentary ends by proposing some reflections on the continuation of this investigation in Italy.
Assessment of Erosion Characteristics in Purple and Yellow Soils Using Simulated Rainfall Experiments
Authors: Luo Banglin , Han Zhen , Yang Jing , Wang Qing
Published: December 2021

Soil erosion of sloped lands is one of the important sources of substantive sediments in watersheds. In order to investigate erosion characteristics of sloped lands during rainfall events in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area, erosion processes of purple and yellow soils under different slope gradients and rainfall intensities were studied by using a rainfall simulator. The results showed that the sediment concentration in runoff was closely correlated with rainfall intensity. The sediment concentration in runoff gradually rose to a peak with time, and then gradually declined and approach a steady rate during simulation rainfall events. The particle size distribution of surface soils before the rainfall was different from that after the rainfall. Soil erosion mainly resulted in the loss of fine particles of surface soil through runoff, and the fine particles of soil were enriched in sediments. Soil erosion rates were gradually increased with the slope gradient when the slope gradient was less than 10°, and significantly increased when the slope gradient was more than 10°. The slope factor of yellow soil could be fitted well to that calculated by the formula of Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE). The trend of the slope factor of purple soil was similar to that of the slope factor that was derived from USLE. Therefore, the effect of slope gradients on soil erosion need to be further researched when USLE was applied to predict erosion in purple soil area.
From Tutoring Gross Anatomy to Pancreatic Surgery Innovation
Authors: Balduzzi Alberto , Marchegiani Giovanni
Published: December 2021

The training for pancreatic surgery still is not conducted according to standardized protocols, and academic programs differ between countries and hospitals. Moreover, due to recent technological innovations such as minimally invasive and robotic surgery, and the broader indications for complex pancreatic procedures due to the use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, training is continuously redefining itself. The historical paradigm of “see one, do one, teach one” has been challenged and might have become obsolete. Finally, the rising number of surgical residents along with the limited time required practicing during residency might represent a major limitation to becoming an independent surgeon. Gross anatomy is a solid practice for the active learning of human anatomy during medical school. With regards to the pancreas, it offers a unique opportunity to both actively study the pancreatic gland anatomy during dissection and simulate actual surgical procedures. A critical review of the literature was conducted, aiming to assess the role of gross anatomy in surgical training and possible future perspectives.
Expanding the Conceptualization of Support in Low-Wage Carework: The Case of Home Care Aides and Client Death
Authors: Tsui Emma K. , LaMonica Marita , Hyder Maryam , Landsbergis Paul , Zelnick Jennifer , Baron Sherry
Published: December 2021

Home care aides are a rapidly growing, non-standard workforce who face numerous health risks and stressors on the job. While research shows that aides receive limited support from their agency employers, few studies have explored the wider range of support that aides use when navigating work stress and considered the implications of these arrangements. To investigate this question, we conducted 47 in-depth interviews with 29 home care aides in New York City, focused specifically on aides’ use of support after client death. Theories of work stress, the social ecological framework, and feminist theories of care informed our research. Our analysis demonstrates aides’ extensive reliance on personal sources of support and explores the challenges this can create in their lives and work, and, potentially, for their communities. We also document aides’ efforts to cultivate support stemming from their home-based work environments. Home care aides’ work stress thus emerges as both an occupational health and a community health issue. While employers should carry responsibility for preventing and mitigating work stress, moving toward health equity for marginalized careworkers requires investing in policy-level and community-level supports to bolster employer efforts, particularly as the home care industry becomes increasingly fragmented and non-standard.
Substance P and Neurokinin 1 Receptor in Chronic Inflammation and Cancer of the Head and Neck: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Esteban Francisco , Ramos-García Pablo , Muñoz Miguel , González-Moles Miguel Ángel
Published: December 2021

Head and neck cancer is a growing worldwide public health problem, accounting for approximately 1,500,000 new cases and 500,000 deaths annually. Substance P (SP) is a peptide of the tachykinin family, which has roles related to a large number of physiological mechanisms in humans. The implications of SP in carcinogenesis have recently been reported through the stimulation of the neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1R), or directly, through the effects derived from the constitutive activation of NK1R. Consequently, SP/NK1R seems to play relevant roles in cancer, upregulating cell proliferation, cell migration and chronic inflammation, among other oncogenic actions. Furthermore, there is growing evidence pointing to a central role for SP in tumour progression, singularly so in laryngeal and oral squamous cell carcinomas. The current narrative review of the literature focuses on the relationship between the SP/NK1R system and chronic inflammation and cancer in the head-and-neck region. We described a role for SP/NK1R in the transition from chronic inflammation of the head and neck mucosa, to preneoplastic and neoplastic transformation and progression.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Regional Ecological Civilization Policy: Evidence from Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Mi Lingyun , Jia Tianwen , Yang Yang , Jiang Lulu , Wang Bangjun , Lv Tao , Li Le , Cao Junfeng
Published: December 2021

Evaluating the effectiveness of ecological civilization policies is the basis from which policymakers can optimize policies. From the perspective of the overall effectiveness of regional policies, and taking Jiangsu Province as an example, this study constructed a quantitative evaluation model of eco-civilization policy text and an eco-civilization evaluation index system. Using these tools, this paper evaluates the effectiveness of 53 ecological civilization policies issued by Jiangsu Province during 2004–2019 to promote the construction of ecological civilization in the four fields of resource utilization, environmental protection, economic development, and social life. There are three key findings. (1) During the period of 2004–2019, the effectiveness of the textual content of ecological civilization policies in Jiangsu Province generally showed a fluctuating upward trend. (2) The construction effectiveness indexes of the four fields of eco-civilization all showed a growth trend, but the construction effect varied greatly. The index of economic development had grown rapidly, while environmental protection had grown slowly. (3) Ecological civilization policies in Jiangsu Province were effective in promoting the construction of ecological civilization. However, the effects of different policy dimensions on ecological civilization development in the four fields were significantly different. Finally, based on these results, powerful recommendations are provided for the optimization of eco-civilization policies in Jiangsu Province. Moreover, Jiangsu is the first province in China to launch a provincial-level ecological civilization construction plan. Its policy optimization to promote ecological civilization construction can also provide an example and realistic basis for reference for the construction of eco-civilization in other provinces in China.
Relationship between Children’s Intergenerational Emotional Support and Subjective Well-Being among Middle-Aged and Elderly People in China: The Mediation Role of the Sense of Social Fairness
Authors: Liu Yixuan , Li Liumeng , Miao Guomei , Yang Xinyan , Wu Yinghui , Xu Yanling , Gao Yonghong , Zhan Yongzhi , Zhong Yiwei , Yang Shujuan
Published: December 2021

This study explored the relations between children’s intergenerational emotional support and subjective well-being (SWB) among Chinese middle-aged (45–60 years old) and elderly people (over 60 years old) and the mediation effect of the sense of social fairness between such associations. Using the 2017 Chinese General Social Survey dataset, a nationally representative survey, we selected 2413 middle-aged and elderly people who are 45 years and older, who suited the study requirements with 1097 males and 1316 females, which accounts for 45.5% and 54.5%, respectively. The average of age was 61.62 years old (SD = 10.45). The mediation analyses were conducted by multivariate regression and the SPSS macro PROCESS program. The results indicated that there was a significant association between children’s intergenerational emotional support and subjective well-being of middle-aged and elderly people (β = 0.0819, p < 0.001). Children’s intergenerational emotional support also had an indirect impact on subjective well-being through one path: the mediating role of the sense of social fairness (0.012). Direct effect (0.0699) and mediation effect (0.012) accounting for the total effect proportion was 85.35% and 14.65%, respectively. The findings may offer some meaningful implications for improving subjective well-being of middle-aged and elderly people. Future research should pay attention to the aforementioned factors with more detailed and comprehensive studies.
Perception of Competence as Mediator between Motor Competence and Physical Activity
Authors: Izaskun Luis-de Cos , Saioa Urrutia-Gutierrez , Gurutze Luis-de Cos , Silvia Arribas-Galarraga
Published: December 2021

Background: The practice of physical activity (PA) plays an important role in achieving an active-healthy lifestyle. Several authors have focused their studies on the relationship between motor competence (MC) and physical activity (PA). Stodden et al. proposed a conceptual model, where they postulated the existence of a positive and significant relationship between the two variables and that there are mediating variables that play a critical role in this relationship as perceived motor competence (PMC). Aims: Therefore, the purpose of this research is to provide empirical evidence to support the conceptual model. The aim is to examine the association of PMC and MC with PA and to determine whether PMC is a mediator of the association between MC and PA in Basque adolescents. Methods: 897 students between 12 and 16 years old from the Basque Country (Spain) participated in this study. The SPORTCOMP battery was used to assess motor competence and the AMPET-R questionnaire was applied to measure the PMC. To know the level of PA participants were asked how many days per week they performed physical activity, considering physical activity to include any sport activity, organized or unorganized, that meets the conditions of a minimum duration of 60 min medium and vigorous intensity. A descriptive, correlational and direct/indirect effect approach was used, using the PROCESS macro for Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: The results highlight that, on the one hand, PMC significantly correlates with both MC and PA and, on the other hand, it is corroborated that PMC is a mediator variable in the relationship between MC and PA. Conclusion: The mediation role of the PMC in the association between MC and PA raises the necessity not only to improve motor skills but also to provide successful experiences that allow adolescents to build a competent image of themselves that will contribute to the achievement and maintenance of an active lifestyle.
Differences in Park Walking, Comparing the Physically Inactive and Active Groups: Data from mHealth Monitoring System in Seoul
Authors: Park Youngjun , Lee Sunjae , Park Sohyun
Published: December 2021

Despite the overall increase in physical activities and park uses, the discrepancies between physically inactive and active people have increasing widened in recent times. This paper aims to empirically measure the differences in walking activity in urban parks between the physically inactive and active. As for the dataset, 22,744 peoples’ 550,234 walking bouts were collected from the mHealth system of the Seoul government, using the smartphone healthcare app, WalkOn, from September to November 2019, in Seocho-gu district, Seoul, Korea. We classified the physically inactive and active sample groups, based on their regular walking (≥150 min of moderate-to-vigorous walking activity a week), and analyzed their park walking activities. We found that while there was no significant difference in walking measures of non-park walking between the sample groups, the difference did exist in park walking. The park walking average in the physically active group had more steps (p = 0.021), longer time (p = 0.008), and higher intensity (p < 0.001) of walking than that in the inactive group. Each park also revealed differences in its on-site park walking quantity and quality, based on which we could draw the list of ‘well-walked parks’, which held more bouts and more moderate-to-vigorous physical activities (MVPAs) than other parks in Seocho-gu district. This paper addresses how park walking of physically inactive and active people is associated with multiple differences in everyday urban walking.
The Effects of the Maternal Health Improvement Project in the Louga Region of Senegal
Authors: Ndiaye Babacar , Thiam Louis , Ham Gahee , Choi Yunsung , Lee Eunmi , Kang Kilho , Yang Youngran
Published: December 2021

Maternal mortality remains a major global health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. Senegal is one of the countries in the region that lagged behind in reaching the Millennium Development Goal 5, the deadline of which passed in 2015. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of information, education, and communication (IEC) activities conducted in Louga, Senegal. Community groups and facilitators conducted IEC campaigns, home visits, and various awareness-raising activities. This study used secondary data as part of the baseline and mid-term evaluations. Participants included women and men who had one or more children under five years of age. It was found that the level of awareness of at least three danger signs of pregnancy recognised by men significantly increased, and husbands/partners more frequently accompanied their wives during antenatal care in 2019 than in 2018. Women’s empowerment improved significantly in terms of women making their own health decisions, joining community decision-making associations or groups, and using contraception. This project indicates that policies and programs are needed to increase men’s involvement and empower women to further women’s reproductive health to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 3 and reduce maternal mortality in Senegal.
Temporal and Spatial Variation of Aboveground Biomass of Pinus densata and Its Drivers in Shangri-La, CHINA
Authors: Xu Dongfan , Zhang Jialong , Bao Rui , Liao Yi , Han Dongyang , Liu Qianwei , Cheng Tao
Published: December 2021

Understanding the drivers of forest aboveground biomass (AGB) is essential to further understanding the forest carbon cycle. In the upper Yangtze River region, where ecosystems are incredibly fragile, the driving factors that make AGB changes differ from other regions. This study aims to investigate AGB’s spatial and temporal variation of Pinus densata in Shangri-La and decompose the direct and indirect effects of spatial attribute, climate, stand structure, and agricultural activity on AGB in Shangri-La to evaluate the degree of influence of each factor on AGB change. The continuous sample plots from National Forest Inventory (NFI) and Landsat time series were used to estimate the AGB in 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, 2007, 2012, and 2017. The structural equation model (SEM) was used to analyze the different effects of the four factors on AGB based on five scales: entire, 1987–2002, 2007–2017, low population density, and high population density. The results are as follows: (1) The AGB of Pinus densata in Shangri-La decreased from 1987 to 2017, with the total amount falling from 9.52 million tons to 7.41 million tons, and the average AGB falling from 55.49 t/ha to 40.10 t/ha. (2) At different scales, stand structure and climate were the drivers that directly affect the AGB change. In contrast, the agricultural activity had a negative direct effect on the AGB change, and spatial attribute had a relatively small indirect effect on the AGB change. (3) Analyzing the SEM results at different scales, the change of the contribution of the agricultural activity indicates that human activity is the main negative driver of AGB change in Shangri-La, especially at the high population density region. In contrast, the change of the contribution of the stand structure and climate indicates that the loss of old trees has an important influence on the AGB change. Forest resources here and other ecologically fragile areas should be gradually restored by adhering to policies, such as strengthening forest protection, improving forest stand quality, and limiting agricultural production activities.
Sleep Duration and Bedtime in the PURE Poland Cohort Study and the Link with Noncommunicable Diseases
Authors: Zatońska Katarzyna , Basiak-Rasała Alicja , Połtyn-Zaradna Katarzyna , Kinastowski Krystian , Szuba Andrzej
Published: December 2021

(1) Background: The objective was to investigate the association between sleep duration, bedtime, and noncommunicable diseases in the PURE Poland cohort study. (2) Methods: The baseline study was conducted in 2007–2010. The study group comprised 2023 adult inhabitants of urban and rural areas in Lower Silesia, Poland. The study protocol included questionnaires, blood pressure measurements, blood draws, and anthropometric measurements. Sleep duration and bedtime were self-reported. (3) Results: The median sleep duration of women was 30 min longer than men (8 h vs. 7.5 h; p = 0.001). The average time of sleep increased along with the age of the participants. A sleep duration of >8 h was more common in rural than in urban participants (40.2% vs. 27.1%; respectively; p < 0.001). The relative risk of diabetes, stroke, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and obesity was significantly higher in participants who went to bed between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. in comparison to those who went to bed between 10 p.m. and 12 a.m. (RR 2.23, 95% CI 1.06–4.67; RR 2.52, 95% CI 1.28 to 4.97; RR 1.12, 95% CI 1.04–1.20; RR 1.36; 95% CI 1.1–1.68; RR 1.38; 95% CI 1.15–1.66, respectively). The relative risk of respiratory diseases was two-fold higher in those who went to bed after midnight in comparison to those who went to bed between 10 p.m. and 12 a.m. (RR 2.24; 95% CI 1.19–4.22). (4) Conclusions: In our study, an earlier bedtime was associated with a higher risk of diabetes, stroke, obesity, hypertension, and CVD.
Dynamic Distribution of HIG2A between the Mitochondria and the Nucleus in Response to Hypoxia and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Salazar Celia , Barros Miriam , Elorza Alvaro A. , Ruiz Lina María
Published: December 2021

Mitochondrial respiratory supercomplex formation requires HIG2A protein, which also has been associated with cell proliferation and cell survival under hypoxia. HIG2A protein localizes in mitochondria and nucleus. DNA methylation and mRNA expression of the HIGD2A gene show significant alterations in several cancers, suggesting a role for HIG2A in cancer biology. The present work aims to understand the dynamics of the HIG2A subcellular localization under cellular stress. We found that HIG2A protein levels increase under oxidative stress. H2O2 shifts HIG2A localization to the mitochondria, while rotenone shifts it to the nucleus. HIG2A protein colocalized at a higher level in the nucleus concerning the mitochondrial network under normoxia and hypoxia (2% O2). Hypoxia (2% O2) significantly increases HIG2A nuclear colocalization in C2C12 cells. In HEK293 cells, chemical hypoxia with CoCl2 (>1% O2) and FCCP mitochondrial uncoupling, the HIG2A protein decreased its nuclear localization and shifted to the mitochondria. This suggests that the HIG2A distribution pattern between the mitochondria and the nucleus depends on stress and cell type. HIG2A protein expression levels increase under cellular stresses such as hypoxia and oxidative stress. Its dynamic distribution between mitochondria and the nucleus in response to stress factors suggests a new communication system between the mitochondria and the nucleus.