bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Holonic System Model for Resilient Energy Grid Operation
Authors: Egert Rolf , Grube Tim , Volk Florian , Mühlhäuser Max
Published: July 2021

The transformation of energy grids towards smart grids is driven by numerous political, economic, and ecological goals. As part of this process, the centralized top-down architecture of energy grids changes towards increasingly decentralized structures. It is widely accepted that the challenges emerging from this transition threaten the resilient operation of energy grids. For instance, the volatility of renewable energy sources challenges the required balance between demand and supply; their distribution in the energy grid likewise complicates their coordination. Holarchies are a promising (systems-of-systems) architectural pattern for smart grids fostering fast isolation and self-sustained operation of subparts (so-called holons), as well as supporting dynamic reconfigurations of the grid’s structure. To leverage these properties to increase the resilience of smart grids, we propose a system model that combines a holonic architecture and locally available resources offered by prosumers. Our model organizes the participants in the grid as holarchy and enables the application of fine-grained control mechanisms. We show the capabilities of the model by resolving an overproduction situation and a situation of severe electricity scarcity using a modified binary ant colony optimization approach. Our evaluation with the simulation environment HOLEG shows that the system model and the proposed algorithm can quickly mitigate balancing problems in holonic energy grids.
A Multifaceted Challenge to Enhance Multicriteria Decision Support for Energy Policy
Authors: Krysiak Magdalena , Kluczek Aldona
Published: July 2021

The necessity to enhance multicriteria decision in the industry is challenging to support the current energy policy. European Union regulations and guidelines provide the guideline for minimalizing environmental harms but are not enough in their actions for providing effective sustainability assessment. None of the available standalone assessment methods do capture the comprehensibility of multicriteria decision-making. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate a challenge to incorporate the multicriteria sustainability decision-making method to mainstream energy policy, which is lacking in European Union policies. The novelty of the research lies in constructing a multicriteria sustainability approach for assessing energy technologies performance for embodying into a mainstream energy policy. In this study, the multicriteria decision-making—an approach combining life cycle-based methods, analytical hierarchy process, as well as macroeconomic analysis, was used to demonstrate the applicability of the method based on three photovoltaic technologies. The results showed that sustainability assessment supported with multicriteria decision allows to better understand analyzed factors influencing the energy technology, contributing to selection of the best sustainability technology according to the realization of an energy policy. It was proved based on a real example of photovoltaics, where string ribbon technology represents the most sustainable along its life cycle, with a 0.503 sustainability score. The study highlighted the challenge to embody the integrated method assessing sustainability-oriented technologies into an energy policy. This challenge regarding example evidence places emphasis on the decision-making process to realize an energy policy and in consequence, to improve enterprise sustainability performance.
How Timber Harvest Affects the Structure and Diversity of a Montane Forest in Southern Mexico
Authors: Martínez-Meléndez Nayely , Ramírez-Marcial Neptalí , Martínez-Zurimendi Pablo , Cach-Pérez Manuel J. , García-Franco José G.
Published: July 2021

Timber extraction directly affects forest structure by opening the canopy, reducing the density and volume of dominant species, and transforming the composition, diversity, and functioning of the forest. We analyze the richness, diversity, and basal area of tree species in a pine–oak montane forest under two stages of the Silvicultural Development Method (thinning and liberation cut treatments) in comparison with remnants of forest considered to be control treatment in the Ocotones forest. Timber extraction began 14 years previously but its effect on the tree structure has not been studied to date in this area. We quantified and measured all the trees with a diameter at breast height >5 cm in 12 0.1 ha circular plots in each treatment. Diversity (Hill numbers) and the importance value index were calculated in each treatment. Observed species richness did not differ between treatments; Pinus oocarpa Schiede ex Schltdl. and Quercus sapotifolia Liebm. were the dominant species regardless of treatment. The principal differences in density and basal area among the treatments were found between the small oaks and small pines. In general, tree density recovered in managed areas because of newly recruited pines and re-sprouting oaks. Although no significant reduction in species richness was detected between treatments, species composition and vegetation structure were modified by the extraction of pine timber and the permanence of many large oaks. Silvicultural treatments appear to create conditions favorable to the maintenance of species richness. The silvicultural interventions in the site meet the objectives of timber production, regeneration, and biodiversity conservation; however, the question of how long the forest can maintain its species diversity and structure after timber extraction remains to be addressed.
Comparative Highly Efficient Production of β-glucan by Lasiodiplodia theobromae CCT 3966 and Its Multiscale Characterization
Authors: Ascencio Jesús J. , Philippini Rafael R. , Gomes Fabricio M. , Pereira Félix M. , da Silva Silvio S. , Kumar Vinod , Chandel Anuj K.
Published: July 2021

Lasiodiplodan, a (1→6)-β-d-glucan, is an exopolysaccharide with high commercial value and many applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Current industrial production of β-glucans from crops is mostly by chemical routes generating hazardous and toxic waste. Therefore, alternative sustainable and eco-friendly pathways are highly desirable. Here, we have studied the lasiodiplodan production from sugarcane bagasse (SCB), a major lignocellulosic agricultural residue, by Lasiodiplodia theobromae CCT 3966. Lasiodiplodan accumulated on SCB hydrolysate (carbon source) supplemented with soybean bran or rice bran (nitrogen source) was 16.2 [6.8 × 103 Da] and 22.0 [7.6 × 103 Da] g/L, respectively. Lasiodiplodan showed high purity, low solubility, pseudoplastic behavior and was composed of glucose units. Moreover, the exopolysaccharides were substantially amorphous with moderate thermal stability and similar degradation temperatures. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the highest production of SCB-based lasiodiplodan to date. L. theobromae, as a microbial cell factory, demonstrated the commercial potential for the sustainable production of lasiodiplodan from renewable biomass feedstock.
Data Science and Knowledge Discovery
Authors: Portela Filipe
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, Data Science (DS) is gaining a relevant impact on the community. The most recent developments in Computer Science, such as advances in Machine and Deep Learning, Big Data, Knowledge Discovery, and Data Analytics, have triggered the development of several innovative solutions (e.g., approaches, methods, models, or paradigms). It is a trending topic with many application possibilities and motivates the researcher to conduct experiments in these most diverse areas. This issue created an opportunity to expose some of the most relevant achievements in the Knowledge Discovery and Data Science field and contribute to such subjects as Health, Smart Homes, Social Humanities, Government, among others. The relevance of this field can be easily observed by its current achieved numbers: thirteen research articles, one technical note, and forty-six authors from fifteen nationalities.
Modified Rhamnogalacturonan-Rich Apple Pectin-Derived Structures: The Relation between Their Structural Characteristics and Emulsifying and Emulsion-Stabilizing Properties
Authors: Humerez-Flores Jessika N. , Verkempinck Sarah H. E. , Kyomugasho Clare , Moldenaers Paula , Van Loey Ann M. , Hendrickx Marc E.
Published: July 2021

In the context of the increasing interest in natural food ingredients, the emulsifying and emulsion-stabilizing properties of three rhamnogalacturonan-rich apple pectin-derived samples were assessed by evaluating a range of physicochemical properties. An apple pectin (AP74) was structurally modified by a β-eliminative reaction to obtain a RG-I-rich pectin sample (AP-RG). Subsequent acid hydrolysis of AP-RG led to the generation of pectin material with partially removed side chains (in particular arabinose depleted) (AP-RG-hydrolyzed), thus exhibiting differences in rhamnose, arabinose, and galactose in comparison to AP-RG. All samples exhibited surface activity to some extent, especially under acidic conditions (pH 2.5). Furthermore, the viscosity of the samples was assessed in relation to their emulsion-stabilizing properties. In a stability study, it was observed that the non-degraded AP74 sample at pH 2.5 exhibited the best performance among all the apple pectin-derived samples evaluated. This emulsion presented relatively small oil droplets upon emulsion production and was less prone to creaming than the emulsions stabilized by the (lower molecular weight) RG-I-rich materials. The AP-RG and AP-RG-hydrolyzed samples presented a slightly better emulsion stability at pH 6.0 than at pH 2.5. Yet, neither pectin sample was considered having good emulsifying and emulsion-stabilizing properties, indicated by the presence of coalesced and flocculated oil droplets.
Effects of Protein, Calcium, and pH on Gene Transcription, Cell-Envelope Peptidase Activity of Lactococcus lactis Strains, and the Formation of Bitter Peptides
Authors: Forler Benjamin , Horstmann Gudrun , Schäfer Johannes , Michel Christina , Weiss Agnes , Stressler Timo , Fischer Lutz , Hinrichs Jörg , Schmidt Herbert
Published: July 2021

Calcium- and protein-rich fermented milk products, such as concentrated yoghurts and fresh cheeses, may contain undesired bitter peptides, which are generated by the proteolytic cleavage of casein. Up to now, it is not clear whether this process is caused by endogenous milk enzymes, such as plasmin and cathepsin D, or whether proteolytic enzymes from applied starter cultures, such as the lactococcal cell-envelope peptidase PrtP, are involved. A sensory analysis of fresh cheese products made from milk concentrates fermented with prtP-negative and -positive Lactococcus lactis strains revealed bitterness in the products fermented with prtP-positive L. lactis strains. Two prtP-positive strains, LTH 7122 and LTH 7123, were selected to investigate the effect of increased calcium concentrations (additional 5 mM and 50 mM CaCl2) at neutral (pH 6.6) and acidic (pH 5.5) pH-values on the transcription of the prtP gene and its corresponding PrtP peptidase activity in milk citrate broth (MCB). For both strains, it was shown that prtP transcription was upregulated only under slightly elevated calcium conditions (5 mM CaCl2) after 5 h of growth. In concordance with these findings, PrtP peptidase activity also increased. When higher concentrations of calcium were used (50 mM), prtP expression of both strains decreased strongly by more than 50%. Moreover, PrtP peptidase activity of strain LTH 7123 decreased by 15%, but enzymatic activity of strain LTH 7122 increased slightly during growth under elevated calcium concentrations (50 mM CaCl2). Fermentations of reconstituted casein medium with 3.4% (w/v) and 8.5% (w/v) protein and different calcium concentrations using strain LTH 7122 revealed no clear relationship between prtP transcription and calcium or protein concentration. However, an increase in PrtP peptidase activity under elevated protein and calcium conditions was observed. The activity increase was accompanied by increased levels of bitter peptides derived from different casein fractions. These findings could be a possible explanation for the bitterness in fermented milk concentrates that was detected by a trained bitter panel.
Hot-Melt-Extruded Active Films Prepared from EVOH/Trans-Cinnamaldehyde Blends Intended for Food Packaging Applications
Authors: Aragón-Gutiérrez Alejandro , Heras-Mozos Raquel , Gallur Miriam , López Daniel , Gavara Rafael , Hernández-Muñoz Pilar
Published: July 2021

In this work, novel active films based on ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) and cinnamaldehyde (CIN) were successfully obtained employing a hybrid technique consisting of a two-step protocol involving the preparation of a polymeric EVOH-CIN masterbatch by solvent-casting for its further utilization in the preparation of bioactive EVOH-based films by melt extrusion processing. The influence of CIN over the EVOH matrix was studied in terms of optical, morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties. Optically transparent films were obtained and the incorporation of cinnamaldehyde resulted in yellow-colored films, producing a blocking effect in the UV region. A decrease in the glass transition temperature was observed in the formulations containing cinnamaldehyde, indicating a plasticizing effect. This phenomenon was confirmed by an increase in the elongation at break values of the extruded films. Results from thermogravimetric analysis determined a slight decrease in the thermal stability of EVOH provoked by the vaporization of the bioactive compound. Bioactive properties of the films were also studied; the presence of residual cinnamaldehyde in EVOH after being subjected to an extrusion process conferred some radical scavenging activity determined by the DPPH assay whereas films were able to exert antifungal activity in vapor phase against Penicillium expansum. Therefore, the present work shows the potential of the hybrid technique employed in this study for the preparation of bioactive films by a ready industrial process technology for food packaging applications.
Using Radical Innovation to Overcome Utility Trade-Offs in Urban Rail Systems in Megalopoleis
Authors: Blumenfeld Marcelo , Roberts Clive , Schmid Felix
Published: July 2021

Urban mobility is increasingly becoming accepted as a basic human need, as socio-economic opportunities depend on the ability to reach places within an acceptable time. Conversely, the emergence of megalopoleis as dominant features of the global landscape has increased commuting effort to unprecedented levels, due to the ever expanding urban areas and the associated travel distances. This now poses a risk to the efficient accessibility of cities, but there is an assumption that the problem can be overcome by increasing the speed of transport systems. However, advocates of this approach overlook important utility trade-offs that arise from the conflict between greater vehicle speeds and the additional time required to access the services. In this paper, we investigate this approach and show that higher speeds in metro systems do not always result in faster travel in cities. We then propose a new approach to addressing the problem, which culminates in a solution that can overcome the current paradoxes and increase door-to-door speeds more effectively. The resulting operational concept optimizes speed and coverage in urban rail systems in megalopoleis, accommodating the longer trips within time budgets. We position this research as a starting point to a new perspective on developing complex urban systems in the future.
Cardiac Defects and Genetic Syndromes: Old Uncertainties and New Insights
Authors: Calcagni Giulio , Pugnaloni Flaminia , Digilio Maria Cristina , Unolt Marta , Putotto Carolina , Niceta Marcello , Baban Anwar , Piceci Sparascio Francesca , Drago Fabrizio , De Luca Alessandro , Tartaglia Marco , Marino Bruno , Versacci Paolo
Published: July 2021

Recent advances in understanding the genetic causes and anatomic subtypes of cardiac defects have revealed new links between genetic etiology, pathogenetic mechanisms and cardiac phenotypes. Although the same genetic background can result in different cardiac phenotypes, and similar phenotypes can be caused by different genetic causes, researchers’ effort to identify specific genotype–phenotype correlations remains crucial. In this review, we report on recent advances in the cardiac pathogenesis of three genetic diseases: Down syndrome, del22q11.2 deletion syndrome and Ellis–Van Creveld syndrome. In these conditions, the frequent and specific association with congenital heart defects and the recent characterization of the underlying molecular events contributing to pathogenesis provide significant examples of genotype–phenotype correlations. Defining these correlations is expected to improve diagnosis and patient stratification, and it has relevant implications for patient management and potential therapeutic options.
A Reassessment of Copy Number Variations in Congenital Heart Defects: Picturing the Whole Genome
Authors: Meerschaut Ilse , Vergult Sarah , Dheedene Annelies , Menten Björn , De Groote Katya , De Wilde Hans , Muiño Mosquera Laura , Panzer Joseph , Vandekerckhove Kristof , Coucke Paul J. , De Wolf Daniël , Callewaert Bert
Published: July 2021

Copy number variations (CNVs) can modulate phenotypes by affecting protein-coding sequences directly or through interference of gene expression. Recent studies in cancer and limb defects pinpointed the relevance of non-coding gene regulatory elements such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and topologically associated domain (TAD)-related gene-enhancer interactions. The contribution of such non-coding elements is largely unexplored in congenital heart defects (CHD). We performed a retrospective analysis of CNVs reported in a cohort of 270 CHD patients. We reviewed the diagnostic yield of pathogenic CNVs, and performed a comprehensive reassessment of 138 CNVs of unknown significance (CNV-US), evaluating protein-coding genes, lncRNA genes, and potential interferences with TAD-related gene-enhancer interactions. Fifty-two of the 138 CNV-US may relate to CHD, revealing three candidate CHD regions, 19 candidate CHD genes, 80 lncRNA genes of interest, and six potentially CHD-related TAD interferences. Our study thus indicates a potential relevance of non-coding gene regulatory elements in CNV-related CHD pathogenesis. Shortcomings in our current knowledge on genomic variation call for continuous reporting of CNV-US in international databases, careful patient counseling, and additional functional studies to confirm these preliminary findings.
Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) for Femoral Neck Fractures: Comparison between Standard and Dual Mobility Implants
Authors: Alberio Riccardo L. , Rusconi Mattia , Martinetti Loris , Monzeglio Diego , Grassi Federico A.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this retrospective study is to compare the short-term clinical and radiological results between standard and dual mobility THA for femoral neck fractures (FNF) in older patients. The hypothesis is that the dual mobility cup (DMC) has the same outcomes but a lower dislocation rate than the standard THA. The study population included 56 patients (mean age 77.7 years, range 71–85) that underwent THA for displaced FNF. Patients were divided in two comparable groups for baseline characteristics (age, sex and comorbidities): 28 patients underwent THA with a standard cup (SC) and 28 THA with DMCs. The clinical records and radiograms were reviewed to search relevant data in their postoperative history. Two postoperative dislocations occurred in the SC group and none in the DMC group. At an average follow up of 23 months (12–40), 48 patients were available for the final evaluation. The WOMAC score for all patients averaged 6.26 (0–46) and was slightly better in the DMC group (4.94 vs. 7.58; p-value = 0.41); scores were significantly better in presence of neurological comorbidities (p-value = 0.04), in the absence of diabetes (p-value = 0.04) and in the case of psychiatric disorders (p-value = 0.02). Radiographic evaluation at one year showed signs of osteointegration in 42/48 (87.5%) acetabular components (20 DMCs, 22 SC). According to our experience, DMCs proved to be a valid option for the treatment of displaced FNF in older patients, since it allowed them to achieve short-term outcomes comparable to conventional THA, while decreasing the incidence of postoperative dislocations.
Natural History of Isolated Below-Knee Vein Thrombosis in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Cho Jang-Hyuk , Lee Dong-Gyu
Published: July 2021

In the general population, serial imaging is recommended over anticoagulant therapy for below-knee deep vein thrombosis (BKDVT). However, no clinical trial in Asian patients with spinal cord injury and BKDVT has been performed. Therefore, we evaluated the natural course of BKDVT in patients with acute spinal cord injury. We retrospectively analyzed inpatients with spinal cord injury with BKDVT between 2016 and 2020. All patients underwent inpatient rehabilitation treatment and duplex ultrasonographic examination of both the lower extremities at follow-up. After screening 172 patients with acute spinal cord injury for deep vein thrombosis using duplex ultrasound, 27 patients with below-the-knee deep vein thrombosis were included in this study. The mean lower-extremity motor score (median, interquartile range) was 66.0, 54.0–74.5. Sixteen patients received a non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (NOAC) for anticoagulation. None of the patients had proximal propagation according to the follow-up duplex ultrasonography. BKDVT disappearance was not significantly different between the NOAC treatment and non-treatment groups. Asian patients with spinal cord injury have a low incidence of venous thromboembolism and favorable natural history of BKDVT. We recommend serial imaging over anticoagulant therapy for BKDVT in these patients.
Multianalytical Assessment of Armour Paints—The Ageing Characteristics of Historic Drying Oil Varnish Paints for Protection of Steel and Iron Surfaces in Sweden
Authors: Källbom Arja , Nevin Austin , Izzo Francesca C.
Published: July 2021

The characteristics of armour paints, historically used to protect ferrous industrial heritage, are explored. Amour paints contain lamellar and highly reflexive pigments of micaceous iron oxide (MIO) and metallic, leafing aluminium, bound in linseed oil and linseed oil–tung oil mixtures, on an inhibitive and soap-forming linseed oil primer (red lead). It is the first study of the binding media used for historical armour paints and investigates the chemical and physical ageing of armour paints using a multianalytical approach. Naturally aged examples are compared to accelerated aged replica armour paint, and to historical paints. The ageing and degradation reactions are assessed by complementary GC–MS and FTIR, together with measurements of wettability, hardness and surface colour. The historical paint formulations include linseed oils and alkyd binders. The results confirm that the leafing effect of aluminium pigments results in only a small concentration of binder at the surface: the paints studied reflect light and form a strong chemical and physical barrier. Linseed oils and tung oil mixtures have been proven to be suitable for the production of armour paints, but the evaluation of ageing and assessment of physical changes will require further investigation.
Application of Room Cooling and Thermal Insulation Materials to Maintain Quality of Okra during Storage and Transportation
Authors: Rattanakaran Jutarat , Saengrayap Rattapon , Prahsarn Chureerat , Kitazawa Hiroaki , Chaiwong Saowapa
Published: July 2021

A combination of room cooling and the use of thermal insulation materials to maintain okra quality under simulated storage and transportation was evaluated. Okra pods were packed in plastic baskets and either cooled at 18 °C or not cooled in a room for 2 h. After either room cooling or no cooling, the okra pods were covered with three different materials: (1) perforated linear low-density polyethylene (P-LLDPE), (2) two layers of heat-reflective sheet with thin nonwoven (HRS+TNNW), and (3) metalized foam sheet (MFS). Typical handling (TP) without cooling and covering with P-LLDPE was used as the control. The six treatments were conducted during simulated storage (18 °C for 48 h) and transportation (30 °C for 15 h). Results showed that MFS gave the best insulation properties (Qx and R-values), followed by HRS and TNNW. After room cooling, both HRS+TNNW and MFS materials delayed the time for pulp temperature to reach 18 °C (10 h), compared to P-LLDPE (2 h). TP presented the highest mass loss (17.8%) throughout simulated conditions, followed by cooling plus P-LLDPE (15.2%) and either of the thermal insulation materials with or without room cooling (3.6% to 5.2%), respectively. TP, cooling plus P-LLDPE, and no cooling plus MFS (44% to 56%) showed the highest percentage of decay, while cooling combined with both HRS+TNNW and MFS gave the lowest decay incidence (11–21%). Findings demonstrated that room cooling combined with HRS+TNNW had the highest efficiency for preserving cool temperature and reducing decay, compared to TP and room cooling plus MFS.
Psychosocial Work Environment and Teachers’ Psychological Well-Being: The Moderating Role of Job Control and Social Support
Authors: Ibrahim R Zirwatul Aida R , Zalam Wan Zaleha Mohd , Foster Bob , Afrizal Teuku , Johansyah Muhamad Deni , Saputra Jumadil , Bakar Azlina Abu , Dagang Mazidah Mohd , Ali Siti Nazilah Mat
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, the issue of teachers’ psychological well-being causes serious concern, especially in Malaysia. Many studies related to psychological well-being have focused on students rather than on the health and well-being of teachers. Thus, the current study investigated the determinants of psychological well-being (depression, anxiety and stress) from the psychosocial work environment (job control, job demands and social support), and examined the moderating role of job control and social support in the relationship between job demands and psychological well-being among teachers. The design of this study was quantitative research through a survey questionnaire. The sample consisted of 335 high school teachers (23.3%—male; 76.7%—female) who responded to measuring scales of job demands, job control, social support, depression, anxiety and stress, and socio-demographic profile. The data were analyzed using two statistical methods, namely descriptive and inferential statistics. The hierarchical linear regression model was used to analyze the data by assisting the statistical software, i.e., SPSS-23. The results showed that job demands, job control and social support significantly predicted teachers’ psychological well-being. Furthermore, the effect of job demands on teachers’ depression and anxiety was partially moderated by job control and social support. In conclusion, this study has successfully identified the significant predictors of teachers’ psychological well-being and the role of job control and social support as a moderating variable to teachers’ psychological well-being in Malaysia. The result provides insights and contributes to the literature of teachers’ psychological well-being determinants and involves Malaysian respondents with a collectivistic eastern culture.
Modelling Health in University Students: Are Young Women More Complicated Than Men?
Authors: Bíró Éva , Kovács Sándor , Veres-Balajti Ilona , Ádány Róza , Kósa Karolina
Published: July 2021

The biopsychosocial model of health in a limited life course perspective was tested among students in higher education using data from a nationwide cross-sectional survey of students on track to become teachers in Hungary. Health determinants were grouped into categories of biological, psychological, and social determinants and arranged in a temporal manner from childhood to the present. The model was tested by canonical correlation analysis followed by multivariate analysis of covariance. One composite outcome of health and six determinant groups were examined out of a total of 24 variables in both genders. Separate sets of health determinants were identified for men and women. The health of men was determined by fewer variables that were more proximal in time, more centred around physical activity, and less influenced by social relations. As opposed to that of men, women’s health was influenced by age; determinants were grouped around the ingestion of various substances and social support. In contrast to men, the health of women seemed to be more obviously multifactorial. The study supports the usefulness of the biopsychosocial model of health in research. The best fit models provided evidence for the importance of gender awareness when designing public health interventions aimed at students.
The Impact of a Nutritional Intervention Program on Eating Behaviors in Italian Athletes
Authors: Terenzio Annalisa , Cassera Alice , Gervasoni Adriano , Pozzi Alessandra , Orlando Antonina , Greco Andrea , Palestini Paola , Cazzaniga Emanuela
Published: July 2021

A balanced diet is a fundamental component of athletes’ health, training, and performance. The majority of athletes choose adequate quantities of macronutrients but, at the same time, do not respect World Health Organization dietary guidelines, eating a lot of discretionary food and not drinking enough water. Athletes need more nutritional education to improve the quality of their food choice. By modifying their eating habits, they could also enhance their performance. Our study aimed to evaluate the impact of nutritional intervention on eating habits in a group of Northern Italian athletes. A sample of 87 athletes (41 males and 46 females) aged 16.5 ± 2.9 was enrolled. We organized meetings and detected eating habits (before and after the meetings) using a food frequencies questionnaire. We found that nutritional intervention positively affected participants consumption of vegetables (p < 0.05), nuts (p < 0.001), legumes (p < 0.001), and fish (p < 0.05). Other aspects of the athletes’ eating habits were not significantly improved. Some gender differences were found; males increased their consumption of vegetables (p < 0.05) and nuts (p < 0.001), while females increased their intake of legumes (p < 0.001). Our finding suggested that nutritional intervention could promote healthy eating habits among athletes. If sports nutrition experts, coaches, personal trainers, sports medicine experts, and athletes cooperated, they could guarantee athletes’ health status.
Endodontic Emergencies in Mumbai City during COVID-19 Lockdown and Different Phases of Unlock
Authors: Shinde Omkar , Pawar Ajinkya M. , Banga Kulvinder Singh , Atram Jatin , Wahjuningrun Dian Agustin
Published: July 2021

The present descriptive research focused on determining the traits of patients who required endodontic treatment during the COVID-19 lockdown and various stages of unlocking in Mumbai metropolitan region. The descriptive analysis was carried out by examining the patients who were registered at Nair Hospital Dental College, Mumbai during four phases of lockdown (25 March to 31 May 2020) and eight phases of unlock (1 June 2020 to 31 January 2021). The evaluation was performed by evaluating the number of days and the overall number of patients reported for endodontic treatment for the first and subsequent visits. Each patient underwent intensive triage, which included taking their body temperature, oxygen saturation level, and travel history. The sex, age, and endodontic diagnosis of the offending tooth were also reported. The pain parameters were analyzed using a verbal numerical rating score (VNRS). During the lockdown phases, 297 patients seeking endodontic treatment visited the hospital over a total of 26 working days, and during the unlock phases, 16,195 patients visited the hospital over 189 working days. The average age of the patients that visited were 31–40 years of age (57.23%). The mean VNRS score was 5.85 ± 1.62. For both the lockdown and unlock periods, a significantly higher percentage of males visited dental school (p < 0.001). When compared to other stages, the number of patients attending during lockdown phase 4 (55.56%) and unlock phase 8 (32.35%) was the highest. The majority of endodontic emergency diagnoses were reversible pulpitis (36.5%) and symptomatic irreversible pulpitis (33.14%), all of which had higher mean VNRS (p < 0.05). Of the 49 patients that reported with COVID-19 symptoms, 11 tested positive. During the lockdown and unlock periods, 12 of the 41 treating workers tested positive. Personal protective equipment and patient screening are critical in shielding clinicians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Building Capacity in Monitoring Urban Liveability in Bangkok: Critical Success Factors and Reflections from a Multi-Sectoral, International Partnership
Authors: Alderton Amanda , Nitvimol Kornsupha , Davern Melanie , Higgs Carl , Correia Joana , Butterworth Iain , Badland Hannah
Published: July 2021

Cities are widely recognised as important settings for promoting health. Nonetheless, making cities more liveable and supportive of health and wellbeing remains a challenge. Decision-makers’ capacity to use urban health evidence to create more liveable cities is fundamental to achieving these goals. This paper describes an international partnership designed to build capacity in using liveability indicators aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and social determinants of health, in Bangkok, Thailand. The aim of this paper is to reflect on this partnership and outline factors critical to its success. Partners included the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, the UN Global Compact—Cities Programme, the Victorian Government Department of Health and Human Services, the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation, and urban scholars based at an Australian university. Numerous critical success factors were identified, including having a bilingual liaison and champion, establishment of two active working groups in the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and incorporating a six-month hand-over period. Other successful outcomes included contextualising liveability for diverse contexts, providing opportunities for reciprocal learning and knowledge exchange, and informing a major Bangkok strategic urban planning initiative. Future partnerships should consider the strategies identified here to maximise the success and longevity of capacity-building partnerships.
Inter-Limb Jump Asymmetries and Their Association with Sport-Specific Performance in Young Male and Female Swimmers
Authors: Phukan Max I. , Thapa Rohit K. , Kumar Gopal , Bishop Chris , Chaabene Helmi , Ramirez-Campillo Rodrigo
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to examine inter-limb jump asymmetries and their association with sport-specific performance in young swimmers. Thirty-eight (male, n = 19; female, n = 19) regional/national level young swimmers (age: 12.3 ± 1.2 years; height: 159.6 ± 8.2 cm; body mass: 52.5 ± 9.2 kg) participated in this study. Inter-limb asymmetries were assessed for single-leg countermovement jump (SLCMJ) and single-leg standing long jump (SLSLJ). Sport-specific performance was evaluated using front crawl (i.e., 50 m and 25 m) and front crawl kick (i.e., 50 m and 25 m). The kappa coefficient revealed a “slight” level of agreement (Κ = 0.156, 0.184, and 0.197 for female, male, and all, respectively) between the direction of asymmetry for SLCMJ and SLSLJ, indicating that asymmetries rarely favored the same limb during both tests. A paired sample t-test showed a significant difference (p = 0.025) between asymmetry scores obtained in SLCMJ and SLSLJ. No significant difference was found in asymmetry scores between males and females (p = 0.099 to 0.977). Additionally, no association between asymmetry scores and sport-specific performance was observed (p > 0.05). Our findings highlight the independent nature of inter-limb asymmetries derived from SLCMJ and SLSLJ among young male and female swimmers. Further, our results suggest no association between jumping asymmetries and sport-specific performance.
The Ecology of Unsheltered Homelessness: Environmental and Social-Network Predictors of Well-Being among an Unsheltered Homeless Population
Authors: Anderson Mary-Catherine , Hazel Ashley , Perkins Jessica , Almquist Zack
Published: July 2021

People experiencing homelessness (PEH) face extreme weather exposure and limited social support. However, few studies have empirically assessed biophysical and social drivers of health outcomes among unsheltered PEH. Social network, health, and outdoor exposure data were collected from a convenience sample of unsheltered PEH (n = 246) in Nashville, TN, from August 2018–June 2019. Using multivariate fixed-effects linear regression models, we examined associations between biophysical and social environments and self-reported general health and emotional well-being. We found that study participants reported the lowest general health scores during winter months—Nashville’s coldest season. We also found a positive association between the number of nights participants spent indoors during the previous week and general health. Participants who spent even one night indoors during the past week had 1.8-point higher general health scores than participants who spent zero nights indoors (p < 0.01). Additionally, participants who experienced a conflict with a social contact in the past 30 days had lower emotional well-being scores than participants who experienced no conflict. Finally, women had worse general health and emotional well-being than men. Ecologically framed research about health and well-being among PEH is critically needed, especially as climate change threatens to increase the danger of many homeless environments.
Working from Home: Is Our Housing Ready?
Authors: Cuerdo-Vilches Teresa , Navas-Martín Miguel Ángel , Oteiza Ignacio
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic and the precautionary measures applied globally (lockdowns and curfews) have impacted homes, including work. Working from home (WFH) has emerged as a growing trend in the post-pandemic era. The research question was: Are our homes ready for teleworking? To respond, a national prospective mixed approach was launched for Spanish households during the spring 2020 lockdown, using two online questionnaires, one quantitative and the other qualitative. Through a survey, photographs, and narratives, the study evaluates the perceived adequacy of telework spaces and their specific characteristics, the availability of digital resources and the internet. A total of 1800 surveys and over 200 images and texts related to telework environments were obtained. The results suggest that the adequacy of these spaces was insufficient for more than a quarter of the homes. Also, strong relations between the perceived workspace adequacy and a social status or stability of homes were shown and validated, despite other sociodemographic features, the home composition or habitat were not related. Some other variables statistically significant were occupation regime, type and surface of dwellings; their indoor environmental quality; the availability of exclusive spaces for teleworking; quality of digital resources; and the specific space features. The analysis was completed with qualitative insights through photos and texts. Telework, lived in this context as an experiment, needs this reflection from an environmental, resource-availability, and ergonomic point of view.
How Do Firms Promote Green Innovation through International Mergers and Acquisitions: The Moderating Role of Green Image and Green Subsidy
Authors: Wu Hang , Qu Yiying
Published: July 2021

Carrying out green innovation is beneficial for firms to cope with environmental protection pressure and achieve sustainable development. Existing research has paid enough attention to the driver of green innovation, but still does not reveal how green innovation can be conceived and realized. This paper answers the above question from the perspective of international M&As, examines the relationship between exploratory international M&As, exploitative international M&As and green innovation performance, and further probes into how strategic and environmental factors moderate the green innovation effectiveness of exploratory and exploitative M&As. Results indicate that exploratory and exploitative international M&As both are beneficial for green innovation performance, and to maximize green innovation performance, implementing exploratory M&As is more beneficial for firms pursuing high green image and operating in a high green subsidy environment. By contrast, carrying out exploitative M&As is more effective for firms pursuing low green image and operating in a low green subsidy environment. Theoretical and managerial implications are discussed.
Novelty of Sphingolipids in the Central Nervous System Physiology and Disease: Focusing on the Sphingolipid Hypothesis of Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Ayub Maria , Jin Hee-Kyung , Bae Jae-sung
Published: July 2021

For decades, lipids were confined to the field of structural biology and energetics as they were considered only structural constituents of cellular membranes and efficient sources of energy production. However, with advances in our understanding in lipidomics and improvements in the technological approaches, astounding discoveries have been made in exploring the role of lipids as signaling molecules, termed bioactive lipids. Among these bioactive lipids, sphingolipids have emerged as distinctive mediators of various cellular processes, ranging from cell growth and proliferation to cellular apoptosis, executing immune responses to regulating inflammation. Recent studies have made it clear that sphingolipids, their metabolic intermediates (ceramide, sphingosine-1-phosphate, and N-acetyl sphingosine), and enzyme systems (cyclooxygenases, sphingosine kinases, and sphingomyelinase) harbor diverse yet interconnected signaling pathways in the central nervous system (CNS), orchestrate CNS physiological processes, and participate in a plethora of neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders. Considering the unequivocal importance of sphingolipids in CNS, we review the recent discoveries detailing the major enzymes involved in sphingolipid metabolism (particularly sphingosine kinase 1), novel metabolic intermediates (N-acetyl sphingosine), and their complex interactions in CNS physiology, disruption of their functionality in neurodegenerative disorders, and therapeutic strategies targeting sphingolipids for improved drug approaches.
Pulsed Flow Turbine Design Recommendations
Authors: Hermet Florian , Binder Nicolas , Gressier Jérémie , Sáez-Mischlich Gonzalo
Published: July 2021

A preliminary analysis of turbine design, fit for pulsed flow, is proposed in this paper. It focuses on an academic 2D configuration using inviscid flows, since pressure loads due to wave propagation are several orders of magnitude higher than friction and viscous effects do not significantly impinge on the inviscid part, as previously shown by Hermet, 2021. As such, a large parametric study was carried out using the design of experiments methodology. A performance indicator adapted to unsteady environment is carefully defined before detailing the factors chosen for the design of experiments. Since the number of factors is substantial, a screening design to identify the factors influence on the output is first established. The non-influential factors are then omitted in a more quantitative study of the output law. The surface response calculation allows determining the factor level favouring the best output. Consequently, the main trends in the turbine design driven by a pulsed flow can be stated.
Digital Image Correlation for Evaluation of Cracks in Reinforced Concrete Bridge Slabs
Authors: Christensen Christian Overgaard , Schmidt Jacob Wittrup , Halding Philip Skov , Kapoor Medha , Goltermann Per
Published: July 2021

In proof-loading of concrete slab bridges, advanced monitoring methods are required for identification of stop criteria. In this study, Two-Dimensional Digital Image Correlation (2D DIC) is investigated as one of the governing measurement methods for crack detection and evaluation. The investigations are deemed to provide valuable information about DIC capabilities under different environmental conditions and to evaluate the capabilities in relation to stop criterion verifications. Three Overturned T-beam (OT) Reinforced Concrete (RC) slabs are used for the assessment. Of these, two are in situ strips (0.55 × 3.6 × 9.0 m) cut from a full-scale OT-slab bridge with a span of 9 m and one is a downscaled slab tested under laboratory conditions (0.37 × 1.7 × 8.4 m). The 2D DIC results includes full-field plots, investigation of the time of crack detection and monitoring of crack widths. Grey-level transformation was used for the in situ tests to ensure sufficient readability and results comparable to the laboratory test. Crack initiation for the laboratory test (with speckle pattern) and in situ tests (plain concrete surface) were detected at intervals of approximately 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm and 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm, respectively. Consequently, the paper evaluates a more qualitative approach to DIC test results, where crack indications and crack detection can be used as a stop criterion. It was furthermore identified that crack initiation was reached at high load levels, implying the importance of a target load.
Superimposed Tissue Formation in Human Aortic Valve Disease: Differences between Regurgitant and Stenotic Valves
Authors: Kruithof Boudewijn P. T. , van Wijngaarden Aniek L. , Mousavi Gourabi Babak , Hjortnaes Jesper , Palmen Meindert , Ajmone Marsan Nina
Published: July 2021

The formation of superimposed tissue (SIT), a layer on top of the original valve leaflet, has been described in patients with mitral regurgitation as a major contributor to valve thickening and possibly as a result of increased mechanical stresses. However, little is known whether SIT formation also occurs in aortic valve disease. We therefore performed histological analyses to assess SIT formation in aortic valve leaflets (n = 31) from patients with aortic stenosis (n = 17) or aortic regurgitation due to aortic dilatation (n = 14). SIT was observed in both stenotic and regurgitant aortic valves, both on the ventricular and aortic sides, but with significant differences in distribution and composition. Regurgitant aortic valves showed more SIT formation in the free edge, leading to a thicker leaflet at that level, while stenotic aortic valves showed relatively more SIT formation on the aortic side of the body part of the leaflet. SIT appeared to be a highly active area, as determined by large populations of myofibroblasts, with varied extracellular matrix composition (higher collagen content in stenotic valves). Further, the identification of the SIT revealed the presence of foldings of the free edge in the diseased aortic valves. Insights into SIT regulation may further help in understanding the pathophysiology of aortic valve disease and potentially lead to the development of new therapeutic treatments.