bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensorless Field Oriented Control of Synchronous Machines for Low and High Speeds with Space Vector Modulation-Based Direct Flux Control Measurement Sequence
Authors: Iturra Rodrigo Guzman , Thiemann Peter
Published: March 2023

During the last decade, field oriented control has often been implemented with space vector modulation due to its inherent advantages over other modulation techniques. On the other hand, direct flux control is a method that estimates the rotor electrical position of synchronous machines (e.g., permanent magnet synchronous motors) using only voltage measurements. In simple terms, direct flux control replaces position sensors by measuring the voltage difference between the star point of the synchronous machine and an artificial star point at particular instants during the switching pattern. Indeed, previous work dealt with direct flux control resorting exclusively to sinusoidal pulse width modulation and mostly in open-loop speed control schemes. This paper aims to present a space vector modulation-based direct flux control measurement sequence that can be used directly with field oriented control to perform sensorless speed control of synchronous machines. In contrast with previous publications, the direct flux control measurement sequence proposed in this paper not only extracts the direct flux control flux linkage signals with the same offset level but also obtains the phase currents needed for field oriented control without current ripple. In simple terms, the proposed direct flux control measurement sequence based on space vector modulation can be used with field oriented control to perform sensorless closed-loop speed control of synchronous machines. The sensorless speed control with the space vector modulation-based direct flux control sequence is validated for high speeds (80% of the nominal speed) and low speeds (6% of the nominal speed) using a high-fidelity four-pole synchronous machine’s simulation model implemented in ANSYS Simplorer and Maxwell.
Implementation of Optimized Regenerative Braking in Energy Efficient Driving Strategies
Authors: Pusztai Zoltán , Kőrös Péter , Szauter Ferenc , Friedler Ferenc
Published: March 2023

In this paper, determination of optimized regenerative braking-torque function and application in energy efficient driving strategies is presented. The study investigates a lightweight electric vehicle developed for the Shell Eco-Marathon. The measurement-based simulation model was implemented in the MATLAB/Simulink environment and used to establish the optimization. The optimization of braking-torque function was performed to maximize the recuperated energy. The determined braking-torque function was applied in a driving strategy optimization framework. The extended driving strategy optimization model is suitable for energy consumption minimization in a designated track. The driving strategy optimization was created for the TT Circuit Assen, where the 2022 Shell Eco-Marathon competition was hosted. The extended optimization resulted in a 2.97% improvement in energy consumption when compared to the result previously achieved, which shows the feasibility of the proposed methodology and optimization model.
Application of Gob-Side Entry Driving in Fully Mechanized Caving Mining: A Review of Theory and Technology
Authors: Chen Dongdong , Zhu Jingkun , Ye Qiucheng , Ma Xiang , Xie Shengrong , Guo Wenke , Li Zijian , Wang Zhiqiang , Feng Shaohua , Yan Xiangxiang
Published: March 2023

China has abundant coal resources, and the distribution of coal seams is complex. Thick coal seams account for more than 45% of all coal seams. Fully mechanized top coal caving mining has the advantages of large production, high efficiency, and low cost. In fully mechanized caving mining, especially in fully mechanized caving mining of extra-thick coal seams, the mining space is ample, the mine pressure is severe, and the roadway maintenance is complex. As a result, it is necessary to summarize and discuss the gob-side entry driving of fully mechanized caving in theory and technology, which will help to promote the further development of fully mechanized caving gob-side entry driving technology. First, in recent years, the research hotspots of gob-side entry driving have focused on the deformation mechanism and the control method of the roadway surrounding rock. Secondly, this paper discusses the theoretical models of the “triangle-block” and “beam” for the activity law of the overlying strata in gob-side entry driving, including the lateral breaking “large structure” model, compound key triangle block structure model in the middle and low position, the high and low right angle key block stability mechanics model, elastic foundation beam model, low-level combined cantilever beam + high-level multilayer masonry beam structure model, and the vertical triangular slip zone structure model. It introduces the “internal and external stress field theory” and the “stress limit equilibrium zone model”. Thirdly, it summarizes several numerical simulation analysis methods in different conditions or research focuses and selects appropriate constitutive models and simulation software. Finally, it introduces surrounding rock control technology, including two ribs, the roof, and under challenging conditions. It provides a method reference for support in similar projects.
Methodology for Modeling Multiple Non-Homogeneous Thermal Zones Using Lumped Parameters Technique and Graph Theory
Authors: Florez Frank , Alzate-Grisales Jesús , Fernández de Córdoba Pedro , Taborda-Giraldo John
Published: March 2023

Asymmetric thermal zones or even non-rectangular structures are common in residential buildings. These types of structures are not easy to model with specialized programs, and it is difficult to know the heat flows and the relationships between the different variables. This paper presents a methodology for modeling structures with multiple thermal zones using the graph theory arrangement. The methodology allows for generating a mathematical model using all the walls of each thermal zone. The modeling method uses the lumped parameter technique with a structure of two resistors and two capacitors for each thermal zone. The walls and internal surfaces of each zone define the thermal resistances, and the elements for the network structure are created by reducing resistances. The structure selected as a case study is similar to a residential apartment, which demonstrates the possibility of modeling complex and non-traditional structures. The accuracy of the generated mathematical model is verified by comparison with experimental data recorded in a scaled-down model. The reduced model is constructed using a 1:10 ratio with a real apartment. The proposed methodology is used to generate a graph arrangement adjusted to the case study, using the surfaces to build the mathematical model. The experimental data allowed to adjust the simulation results with errors in the range of 1.88% to 6.63% for different thermal zones. This methodology can be used to model different apartments, offices, or non-asymmetric structures and to analyze individual levels in buildings.
Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Layout Optimization
Authors: Cazzaro Davide , Bedon Gabriele , Pisinger David
Published: March 2023

Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) are not mature enough yet for offshore wind farms, but they offer benefits compared to conventional Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWTs). Higher power densities, reduced wakes, lower center of mass, and different power and thrust curves make VAWTs an interesting option to complement existing wind farms. The optimization of wind farm layouts—finding the optimal positions of wind turbines in a park—has proven crucial to extract more energy from conventional wind farms. In this study, we build an optimizer for VAWTs that can consider arbitrarily shaped layouts as well as obstacles in the area. We adapt a recent model for the wakes of VAWTs considering a Troposkien design. We can then model and optimize a large VAWT park in a real wind scenario and assess for the first time its performance operating Troposkien VAWTs. In addition, we present a novel model for wind farm optimization that considers the clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of turbines. This optimization exploits the asymmetric wakes of VAWTs, thus increasing the total energy production. We benchmark our optimization on realistic instances and compare VAWTs and HAWTs wind farm layouts, showing that VAWTs can achieve higher density and power production than HAWTs in the same area. Finally, the wake loss reduction is compared to the literature.
The Mechanism of Hot Spots Caused by Avalanche Breakdown in Gallium-Doped PERC Solar Cells
Authors: Ge Huayun , Li Xing , Guo Chunlin , Luo Wei , Jia Rui
Published: March 2023

Gallium-doped p-type passivated emitter and rear contact (PERC) solar cells, which eliminate light-induced degradation (LID) and reduce the impact of light- and elevated-temperature-induced degradation (LeTID), have completely replaced boron-doped p-type PERC cells. However, in previous experiments, we found hot spots in the center of gallium-doped PERC solar cells. In this study, it was found that gallium-doped PERC cells had uneven resistivity, which caused hot spots brought about by the avalanche breakdown of PN junctions. There were significant hot spots in the center of the tested cells, with an average resistivity of 0.4–0.5 Ωcm and nonuniformity greater than 30%, or at an average resistivity of 0.5–0.6 Ωcm with nonuniformity greater than 40%. In this paper we describe and study in detail hot spots triggered by the uneven resistivity of gallium-doped cells and analyze the causes and related influencing factors, thereby providing guidance and a reference for the improvement of the performance and reliability of gallium-doped PERC solar cells.
Simulation of Internal Manifold-Type Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells (MCFCs) with Different Operating Conditions
Authors: Jung Kyu-Seok , Zhang Kai , Lee Chang-Whan
Published: March 2023

Molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs) use molten carbonate as an electrolyte. MCFCs operate at high temperatures and have the advantage of using methane as a fuel because they can use nickel-based catalysts. We analyzed the performance of an internal manifold-type MCFC, according to operating conditions, using computational fluid dynamics. Different conditions were used for the external and internal reforming-type MCFCs. Flow directions, gas utilization, and operating temperatures were used as the conditions for the external reforming-type MCFCs. The S/C ratio and reforming area were used as the conditions for internal reforming-type MCFCs. A simulation model was developed, considering gas transfer, reforming reaction, and heat transfer. The simulation results of external reforming-type MCFCs showed similar pressure drops in all flow directions. As the gas utilization decreased, the temperature decreased, but the performance increased. The performance improved with increasing operating temperatures. The simulation results for the internal reforming-type MCFCs showed that more hydrogen was produced as the S/C ratio decreased, and the performance increased accordingly. More hydrogen was produced as the reforming area increased. However, similar performance was obtained when the reforming area contained the same active area. The external and internal reforming-type MCFCs were compared under the same conditions. The efficiency of the external reforming-type MCFCs is higher than that of the internal reforming-type MCFCs.
Application of an Artificial Neural Network for Detecting, Classifying, and Making Decisions about Asymmetric Short Circuits in a Synchronous Generator
Authors: Baghdasaryan Marinka , Ulikyan Azatuhi , Arakelyan Arusyak
Published: March 2023

Fast and accurate detection of emerging faults in synchronous generators, which have found wide application in power and transport systems, contributes to ensuring reliable operation of the entire system. This article presents a new approach to making accurate decisions on the continuation of the operation of damaged generators in accordance with the requirements of IEEE standards. The necessity of limiting the duration of operation of the generator in conditions of asymmetric short circuits in the stator windings is substantiated. The authors of the article, based on an artificial neural network in the Matlab software environment, have developed a model for detecting, classifying, and making quick and accurate decisions about the operation of the generator in the event of asymmetric short circuits in the stator windings of the generator. This makes it possible to simulate the operation of the generator at various parameters. Prior to training the neural network, the database formed by phase current and voltage signals was analyzed by various features. The neural network was trained using the back-error-propagation algorithm. The output 10 neurons of the network showed the state of the phase windings of the stator. The recorded information of the output neurons was evaluated, in terms of meeting the requirements of the IEEE standard, and decisions were made about continuing or interrupting the generator operation. Tests of the effectiveness of the model showed that it could achieve the desired result at step 49, and the calculated accuracy was 99.5833%. The results obtained can be successfully used in the development of high-speed and highly reliable diagnostic systems and control and decision-making systems for generators for various purposes.
Population Genetics of Chilean Jack Mackerel, Trachurus murphyi Nichols, 1920, (Pisces, Carangidae), in Waters of the South Pacific Ocean
Authors: Ferrada Fuentes Sandra , Galleguillos Ricardo , Herrera-Yáñez Victoria , Canales-Aguirre Cristian B.
Published: March 2023

Estimating genetic diversity and population structure with polymorphic markers might provide information for the better management of fish that have economic importance. We used the Chilean jack mackerel, Trachurus murphyi, a pelagic species distributed in the south Pacific Ocean, to test the population genetic structure across its distribution. A total of 522 samples were collected from 11 locations in 2008, to be analyzed using six loci microsatellites. We conducted traditional genetic analyses to describe the genetic diversity of T. murphyi and whether it shows spatial genetic structure. The results showed a high genetic diversity across locations (Ho = 0.551 to 0.980; He = 0.676 to 0.959). Estimates for the population structure showed a low and non-significant pairwise FST in all comparisons. We supported the non-genetic differentiation previously reported with the used microsatellite panel. Further comparative temporal studies should be conducted to identify the stability of this pattern. Overall, this study reinforces the hypothesis that, in the Pacific Ocean, Chilean jack mackerel correspond to a large single population.
Risk Assessment of Nine Coccidiostats in Commercial and Home-Raised Eggs
Authors: Martins Rui R. , Pereira André M. P. T. , Silva Liliana J. G. , Esteves Alexandra , Duarte Sofia C. , Freitas Andreia , Pena Angelina
Published: March 2023

The poultry industry, in order to prevent and control coccidiosis caused by Eimeria spp., widely uses coccidiostats as feed additives. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of nine coccidiostats in 62 egg samples by UHPLC-MS/MS. Overall, detection frequency and average concentration were 90.3% (56/62) and 106.3 μg kg−1, respectively. Only diclazuril and nicarbazin were detected. Diclazuril, only found in home-raised eggs, showed an overall detection frequency of 8.1% (5/62), with average and maximum concentrations of 0.46 ± 1.90 μg kg−1 and 13.6 μg kg−1, respectively. Nicarbazin presented an overall higher frequency, 88.7% (55/62), with levels up to 744.8 μg kg−1. Additionally, four samples (6.5%) presented both nicarbazin and diclazuril. Home-raised egg samples (n = 28) showed a detection frequency of 89.3%, with nicarbazin found in more samples (85.7% vs. 17.9%) and at higher levels (266.3 ± 169.4 μg kg−1 vs. 0.91 ± 2.78 μg kg−1) when compared to diclazuril. In supermarket samples (n = 34), only nicarbazin was detected in 31 samples (91.1%), with an average of 167.6 ± 62.2 μg kg−1. Considering the average contamination scenario, consumers’ health should not be adversely affected by egg consumption. In every scenario considered, children were the most vulnerable population group.
Subzero Temperature Storage to Preserve the Quality Attributes of Veiled Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Díez-Betriu Anna , Romero Agustí , Ninot Antonia , Tres Alba , Vichi Stefania , Guardiola Francesc
Published: March 2023

Unfiltered olive oils (UO) have gained popularity in the global market, but they lose their quality characteristics faster than filtered oils (FO). In this work, refrigeration and freezing temperatures were explored to maintain UO quality features during storage. A full factorial design was applied to an UO and to the same oil after filtration to evaluate the effect of storage temperature (room temperature, 4 °C and –20 °C) and freezing speed (slow-freezing, in the freezer at −20 °C and fast-freezing, in a bath of liquid nitrogen). Official quality parameters, polar and nonpolar phenolic compounds, oxidative stability index, volatile compounds and descriptive sensory profile were measured periodically over 24 months of storage in the dark. Storage temperature influenced the quality of both UO and FO, but in different ways. At non-freezing temperature, UO experienced a severe decrease in its sensory quality compared to FO, mainly due to the hydrolysis of secoiridoids and degradation of the volatile fraction, but storage at −20 °C allowed to effectively preserve UO quality traits, thus resulting as a suitable strategy to increase the shelf-life of UO to satisfy the demand of consumers for this particular product. The results showed that slow-freezing was the most appropriate method for freezing.
The Hepatoprotective Effect of Two Date Palm Fruit Cultivars’ Extracts: Green Optimization of the Extraction Process
Authors: Alqahtani Nashi K. , Mohamed Hisham A. , Moawad Mahmoud E. , Younis Nancy S. , Mohamed Maged E.
Published: March 2023

Date palm fruit (Phoenix dactylifera: Arecaceae) is rich in essential nutrients and possesses several pharmacological and medicinal activities. The current study aimed to optimize a water bath-assisted extraction method for two cultivars of date palm fruits, Anbara (An) and Reziz (Rz), and investigated the protective effect of the optimized date palm fruit extract against CCl4-induced liver toxicity in relation to oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and DNA integrity. The optimization process of two date palm fruit cultivars was applied, using response surface methodology through adjusting three “factors”; time, temperature, and rotation, to allow maximum contents of total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC), reducing power (FRAP) and scavenging activity (ABTS) of the extract “responses”. Extraction factors’ application significantly enhanced TPC, TFC, FRAP, and ABTS responses by 1.30, 1.23, 3.03, and 2.06-fold, respectively in An and 2.18, 1.71, 1.11, and 2.62-fold, respectively in Rz, in relation to the convectional water extraction. Furthermore, co-administered CCl4 with An or Rz optimized extracts enhanced body weight gain, amended hepatic architecture, and diminished collagen fiber accumulation. Furthermore, An or Rz extracts reduced liver enzymes, hydroxyproline, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), MDA, inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, NF-κB) levels, and DNA fragmentation, while increasing deteriorated adiponectin (ADP) and antioxidant enzyme (GSH, GPX, NO, and IFN-γ) levels, relative to CCl4-administered animals. The protective effects of An or Rz-optimized extracts were also evidenced by suppressing hepatic fibrosis and improving liver function and structure via modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, in CCl4-induced hepatic damage. Hence, the optimized extraction process for the two date palm fruits resulted in extracts which are rich in phenolic and flavonoid contents and with an elevated antioxidant power. The presence of these rich extracts could help to explain their proven hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced liver toxicity.
The Role of Tableware Size in Healthy Eating—Effects on Downstream Food Intake
Authors: Abeywickrema Sashie , Peng Mei
Published: March 2023

Recent studies show that visual exposure to different portion sizes can lead to portion alterations in subsequent meals, suggesting that manipulations of tableware sizes may also modify portion size perception and downstream eating behaviour. The present study aims to address this novel question by testing 61 male participants (20–40 years; 19.7–41.5 kg·m−2) over three breakfast sessions in a controlled laboratory. In each session, the participant was served a pre-determined breakfast portion in either medium (control; CT), small (SC), or large (LC) jars. Participants were asked to rate post-meal satiety, and then recorded food intake for the rest of the day using Food Records. Our results indicated significant changes in post-meal satiety following the SC or LC condition, compared to CT (SC: 55.3 ± 10.8, LC: 31.0 ± 8.4, CT: 42.1 ± 9.6, F(2, 108) = 25.22, p < 0.001). SC led to a reduction in post-breakfast energy intake (F(2, 108) = 61.28, p < 0.001), but was counteracted by a substantial increase in downstream intake at the following meal (F(2, 108) = 47.79, p < 0.001), resulting in an overall increase in total daily energy intake (F(2, 108) = 11.45, p < 0.001). This study provides the first evidence that small tableware may not be a long-term solution for addressing overeating and related health issues (e.g., obesity), reinforcing the importance of considering downstream intake in eating-related intervention.
Traditional Mexican Food: Phenolic Content and Public Health Relationship
Authors: Alatorre-Cruz Julia María , Carreño-López Ricardo , Alatorre-Cruz Graciela Catalina , Paredes-Esquivel Leslie Janiret , Santiago-Saenz Yair Olovaldo , Nieva-Vázquez Adriana
Published: March 2023

Phenolic compounds have a positive effect on obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity. The prevalence of these diseases has increased in the last years in the Mexican population. Therefore, the Mexican diet must be assessed as provider of phenolic compounds. To assess this, a survey of phenolic compound intake was validated and applicated to 973 adults (798 females) between 18 and 79 years old. We compared the phenolic compound intake of 324 participants with more diseases (239 females) and 649 participants with healthier condition (559 females). The groups differed in sex, age, and scholarship. Males, older participants, and those with lower schooling reported suffering from more diseases. Regarding phenolic compound intake analyses, the participants with healthier conditions displayed a higher phenolic compound intake than the other group in all foods assessed. In addition, the regression model showed that the phenolic compounds intake of Mexican dishes, such as arroz con frijol or enchiladas, positively affected health status, suggesting that this traditional food is beneficial for the participant’s health condition. However, the weight effect of PCI was different for each disease. We conclude that, although PCI of Mexican food positively affects health conditions, this effect depends on sex, age, and participants’ diseases.
Fatty Acid Composition of Selected Street Foods Commonly Available in Malaysia
Authors: Zainal Arifen Zainorain , Shahril Mohd , Shahar Suzana , Mohamad Hamdan , Mohd Yazid Siti , Michael Viola , Taketo Tanaka , Trieu Kathy , Harith Sakinah , Ibrahim Nor , Abdul Razak Shariza , Mat Jusoh Hanapi , Hun Pin Chua , Lee Jau-Shya , Mohamed Ismail Risyawati , Lai Kuan Lee , Haron Hasnah
Published: March 2023

Despite growing evidence of increased saturated and trans fat contents in street foods, little is known about their fatty acid (FA) compositions. This study aimed to analyse the saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and trans fatty acids (TFAs) content of 70 selected and most commonly available street foods in Malaysia. The street foods were categorised into main meals, snacks, and desserts. TFAs were not detected in any of the street foods. Descriptively, all three categories mainly contained SFAs, followed by MUFAs, and PUFAs. However, the one-way ANOVA testing showed that the differences between each category were insignificant (p > 0.05), and each FA was not significantly different (p > 0.05) from one to another. Nearly half of the deep-fried street foods contained medium to high SFAs content (1.7 g/100 g–24.3 g/100 g), while the MUFAs were also high (32.0–44.4%). The Chi-square test of association showed that the type of preparation methods (low or high fat) used was significantly associated (p < 0.05) with the number of SFAs. These findings provide valuable information about fat composition in local street foods for the Malaysian Food Composition Database and highlight the urgency to improve nutritional composition.
Bioactive Properties and Phenolic Composition of Wood-Aged Beers: Influence of Oak Origin and the Use of Pale and Dark Malts
Authors: Machado Julio C. , Nicola Pedro D. M. , Viegas Olga , Santos Mickael C. , Faria Miguel A. , Ferreira Isabel M. P. L. V. O.
Published: March 2023

Ageing beer in contact with wood is a common technological procedure that has been used for centuries to improve colour, structure, and certain flavours. Herein, the impact of the addition of French and American oak wood to two beer styles, pale and dark, on beer phenolic composition (total phenolics, total flavonoids, and HPLC-DAD) and bioactivity (FRAP, DPPH, anti-inflammatory activity in RAW 264.7, and antiproliferative in Caco-2 cells) was assessed. Thirteen phenolics were quantified with values according to previous reports. Dark malt resulted in higher values of total phenolics, to which m-hydroxybenzoic, syringic, p-coumaric acids, and xanthohumol contributed considerably; the exception was (+)-catechin and salicylic acid, which were found to be higher in pale beers. American oak significantly increased 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic, vanillic, and syringic acids up to roughly 3, 2, and 10 times, respectively, when compared with French wood. FRAP and DPPH values varied between pale and dark beers, with a less pronounced effect after wood addition. All samples presented considerable cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory as well as antiproliferative activity, but differences were found only for the antiproliferative activity, which was higher for the dark beers, which reached about 70% inhibition. Overall, the influence of malts was more pronounced than that of wood, in the studied conditions, highlighting the overwhelming impact of malts on the bioactivity of beer.
Dynamical Analysis of Generalized Tumor Model with Caputo Fractional-Order Derivative
Authors: Padder Ausif , Almutairi Laila , Qureshi Sania , Soomro Amanullah , Afroz Afroz , Hincal Evren , Tassaddiq Asifa
Published: March 2023

In this study, we perform a dynamical analysis of a generalized tumor model using the Caputo fractional-order derivative. Tumor growth models are widely used in biomedical research to understand the dynamics of tumor development and to evaluate potential treatments. The Caputo fractional-order derivative is a mathematical tool that is recently being applied to model biological systems, including tumor growth. We present a detailed mathematical analysis of the generalized tumor model with the Caputo fractional-order derivative and examine its dynamical behavior. Our results show that the Caputo fractional-order derivative provides a more accurate description of the tumor growth dynamics compared to classical integer-order derivatives. We also provide a comprehensive stability analysis of the tumor model and show that the fractional-order derivative allows for a more nuanced understanding of the stability of the system. The least-square curve fitting method fits several biological parameters, including the fractional-order parameter α. In conclusion, our study provides new insights into the dynamics of tumor growth and highlights the potential of the Caputo fractional-order derivative as a valuable tool in biomedical research. The results of this study shell have significant implications for the development of more effective treatments for tumor growth and the design of more accurate mathematical models of tumor development.
The Fractional Analysis of a Nonlinear mKdV Equation with Caputo Operator
Authors: Alyousef Haifa A. , Shah Rasool , Shah Nehad Ali , Chung Jae Dong , Ismaeel Sherif M. E. , El-Tantawy Samir A.
Published: March 2023

In this study, we aim to provide reliable methods for the initial value problem of the fractional modified Korteweg–de Vries (mKdV) equations. Fractional differential equations are essential for more precise simulation of numerous processes. The hybrid Yang transformation decomposition method (YTDM) and Yang homotopy perturbation method (YHPM) are employed in a very simple and straightforward manner to handle the current problems. The derivative of fractional order is displayed in a Caputo form operator. To illustrate the conclusion given from the findings, a few numerical cases are taken into account for their approximate analytical solutions. We looked at two cases and contrasted them with the actual result to validate the methodologies. These techniques create recurrence relations representing the proposed problem’s solution. It is possible to find the series solutions to the given problems, and these solutions have components that converge to precise solutions more quickly. Tables and graphs are used to describe the new results, which demonstrate the present methods’ adequate accuracy. The actual and estimated outcomes are demonstrated in graphs and tables to be quite similar, demonstrating the usefulness of the proposed approaches. The innovation of the current work resides in the application of effective methods that require less calculation and achieve a greater level of accuracy. Additionally, the suggested approaches can be applied in the future to resolve other nonlinear fractional problems, which will be a scientific contribution to the research community.
The Effect of Cognitive Training with Neurofeedback on Cognitive Function in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Matsuzaki Yutaka , Nouchi Rui , Sakaki Kohei , Dinet Jérôme , Kawashima Ryuta
Published: March 2023

Background: Cognitive training aims to improve cognitive function through cognitive tasks or training games. Neurofeedback is a technique to monitor brain signals with either visual or auditory feedback. Previous studies suggest that a combination of cognitive training and neurofeedback has a superior effect on cognitive functions compared with cognitive training alone. However, no systematic reviews and meta-analyses of the benefits of cognitive training with neurofeedback (CTNF) exist. The purpose of this study was to examine the beneficial effects of CTNF in healthy adults using a systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, PsychoINFO, and MEDLINE were searched for research papers reporting the results of interventions using CTNF. Results: After an initial screening of 234 records, three studies using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and one study using electroencephalography were extracted from the database. We performed a multi-level meta-analysis with three NIRS studies including 166 participants (mean ages ranged from 21.43 to 65.96 years). A multi-level meta-analysis revealed that CTNF has a beneficial effect on the episodic, long-term, and working memory domains. Conclusions: Although three studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, our results indicate that CTNF using NIRS would lead to improvements in memory functioning.
Anxiety Levels and Coping Strategies to Deal with COVID-19: A Cross-Cultural Study among the Spanish and Latin American Healthcare Populations
Authors: Olivencia-Carrión María Angustias , Olivencia-Carrión María Demelza , Fernández-Daza Martha , Zabarain-Cogollo Sara , Castro Greys Patricia , Jiménez-Torres Manuel Gabriel
Published: March 2023

Given its impact, COVID-19 has engendered great challenges in terms of health, highlighting the key role of health personnel. This study aims to analyze the level of anxiety, as well as coping strategies, among the health personnel in Latin American countries and Spain. An exploratory, descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted with 584 participants from the healthcare population. No significant differences were observed in anxiety levels due to COVID-19 between Latin American countries and Spain. In Spain, an active and passive coping style is used, while in Latin American countries, an avoidance coping style is employed; there is a direct correlation between anxiety levels and the avoidance coping style. There exists an inverse correlation between anxiety levels and the use of an active coping style; moreover, there are no significant differences in the anxiety level of health personnel depending on whether they have cared for patients with COVID-19. Low cognitive activity, use of the avoidance method and Spanish geography were the main predictive coping styles of anxiety. Effective measures are required for preserving the mental health of health professionals during pandemics.
A Semi-Automatic Method on a Small Italian Sample for Estimating Sex Based on the Shape of the Crown of the Maxillary Posterior Teeth
Authors: Bianchi Ilenia , Oliva Giorgio , Vitale Giulia , Bellugi Beatrice , Bertana Giorgio , Focardi Martina , Grassi Simone , Dalessandri Domenico , Pinchi Vilma
Published: March 2023

Teeth are known to be reliable substrates for human identification and are endowed with significant sexual dimorphism not only in the size but also in the shape of the crowns. In the preliminary phase of our study (already published in 2021), a novel sex estimation method based on dental morphometric geometric (GMA) analysis combined with the artificial neural network (ANN) was developed and validated on a single dental element (first upper premolar) with an accuracy rate of 80%. This study aims to experiment and validate the combination of GMA–ANN on the upper first and second left premolars and the upper left first molar to obtain a reliable classification model based on the sexual dimorphic traits of multiple maxillary teeth of Caucasian Italian adults (115 males and 115 females). A general procrustes superimposition (GPS) and principal component analysis (PCA) were performed to study the shape variance between the sexes and to reduce the data variations. The “set-aside” approach was used to validate the accuracy of the proposed ANN. As the main findings, the proposed method correctly classified 94% of females and 68% of males from the test sample and the overall accuracy gained was 82%, higher than the odontometric methods that similarly consider multiple teeth. The shape variation between male and female premolars represents the best dimorphic feature compared with the first upper molar. Future research could overcome some limitations by considering a larger sample of subjects and experimenting with the use of computer vision for automatic landmark positioning and should verify the present evidence in samples with different ancestry.
Quality Indicators during Delivery and the Immediate Postpartum Period: A Modified Delphi Study
Authors: Guiguet-Auclair Candy , Rivière Olivier , Gerbaud Laurent , Vendittelli Françoise
Published: March 2023

Background: Our research hypothesis was that most French indicators of quality of care have been validated by experts who are not clinicians and might not always be meaningful for clinicians. Our objective was to define a core set of measurable indicators of care quality during delivery and the immediate postpartum period relevant to clinical practice. Methods: A steering committee comprising nine specialists in obstetrics and/or public health conducted a literature review to develop potential indicators. A panel of obstetrician-gynecologists and midwives working in a delivery unit rated each indicator for appropriateness in a two-round Rand-modified Delphi procedure and a physical meeting. The consensus among the panelists was assessed. Results: In the first round, 145 panelists (110 obstetrician-gynecologists and 35 midwives) assessed 77 indicators and 3 definitions: 6 related to labor onset, 20 to delivery, 3 to pain management, 23 to neonatal morbidity/mortality, and 28 to maternal morbidity. In the second round, 132 panelists (98 obstetrician-gynecologists and 34 midwives) assessed 42 indicators and 1 definition. The final set comprised 50 indicators and 2 definitions. Conclusions: This Delphi procedure selected 50 indicators that reflect the quality of perinatal care. These indicators should be recorded in each French maternity ward’s birth register for each delivery.
Artificial Intelligence: A Next-Level Approach in Confronting the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mahalakshmi V. , Balobaid Awatef , Kanisha B. , Sasirekha R. , Ramkumar Raja M.
Published: March 2023

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which caused coronavirus diseases (COVID-19) in late 2019 in China created a devastating economical loss and loss of human lives. To date, 11 variants have been identified with minimum to maximum severity of infection and surges in cases. Bacterial co-infection/secondary infection is identified during viral respiratory infection, which is a vital reason for morbidity and mortality. The occurrence of secondary infections is an additional burden to the healthcare system; therefore, the quick diagnosis of both COVID-19 and secondary infections will reduce work pressure on healthcare workers. Therefore, well-established support from Artificial Intelligence (AI) could reduce the stress in healthcare and even help in creating novel products to defend against the coronavirus. AI is one of the rapidly growing fields with numerous applications for the healthcare sector. The present review aims to access the recent literature on the role of AI and how its subfamily machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) are used to curb the pandemic’s effects. We discuss the role of AI in COVID-19 infections, the detection of secondary infections, technology-assisted protection from COVID-19, global laws and regulations on AI, and the impact of the pandemic on public life.
Opinion and Sentiment Analysis of Palliative Care in the Era of COVID-19
Authors: Inoue Megumi , Li Meng-Hao , Hashemi Mahdi , Yu Yang , Jonnalagadda Jahnavi , Kulkarni Rajendra , Kestenbaum Matthew , Mohess Denise , Koizumi Naoru
Published: March 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the value of palliative care has become more evident than ever. The current study quantitatively investigated the perceptions of palliative care emerging from the pandemic experience by analyzing a total of 26,494 English Tweets collected between 1 January 2020 and 1 January 2022. Such an investigation was considered invaluable in the era of more people sharing and seeking healthcare information on social media, as well as the emerging roles of palliative care. Using a web scraping method, we reviewed 6000 randomly selected Tweets and identified four themes in the extracted Tweets: (1) Negative Impact of the Pandemic on Palliative Care; (2) Positive Impact of the Pandemic on Palliative Care; (3) Recognized Benefits of Palliative Care; (4) Myth of Palliative Care. Although a large volume of Tweets focused on the negative impact of COVID-19 on palliative care as expected, we found almost the same volume of Tweets that were focused on the positive impact of COVID-19 on palliative care. We also found a smaller volume of Tweets associated with myths about palliative care. Using these manually classified Tweets, we trained machine learning (ML) algorithms to automatically classify the remaining tweets. The automatic classification of Tweets was found to be effective in classifying the negative impact of the COVID-19.
Evaluation of Removed and Recycled Mineral Nutrients in Italian Commercial Persimmon Orchards
Authors: Quartieri Maurizio , Polidori Greta , Baldi Elena , Toselli Moreno
Published: March 2023

Persimmon is a typical fruit crop of the Mediterranean region and, since it is considered a minor species, little information is available on its nutrients need. In the present experiment, it was estimated the quantity of removed and recycled nutrients by Kaki Tipo and Rojo Brillante, the two main varieties of persimmon grown in Emilia-Romagna region (Po Valley, Italy). Plants from ten mature orchards were selected and harvested; organs (leaves in summer, fruits at harvest, abscissed leaves, roots and skeleton) biomass and mineral composition were determined. The yearly uptake of macronutrients was similar for the 2 varieties, accounting for (kg ha−1): N 89-91, P 10-11, K 79-91, Ca 132-162, Mg 22-26 and S 9. While K was mostly found in fruits, Ca and Mg were mainly partitioned to leaves. Among micronutrients, Mn and Fe showed the highest values (1.1–1.3 and 1.2–2.1 kg ha−1, respectively), followed by B (370 g ha−1), while Cu and Zn showed the smallest amounts (less 100 g ha−1). Nitrogen, Ca, Mg and S were those more recycled than removed, while K showed an opposite trend; among the microelements, the annual recycled fractions of B and Mn were higher than that removed.
Identification, Biocontrol Activity, and Field Application Effect of Bacillus velezensis Yb-1
Authors: Wang Bao , Li Erfeng , Lin Yang , Xiao Tongbin , Ji Xuncong , Zhao Zhixiang , Yan Wanrong
Published: March 2023

Colletotrichum capsici is one of the most important pathogens on chili peppers. Unreasonable application of chemical fungicides will lead to threats to human and animal health, environmental damage, and increased fungicide resistance to pathogens. As an alternative strategy, biological control has been paid more and more attention by academics. In this study, the Yb-1 strain was isolated from healthy cucumber leaves, which could significantly restrict the mycelium growth of C. capsici and Botrytis cinerea, with inhibition rates of 93.49% and 74.03%, respectively. Strain Yb-1 was identified as Bacillus velezensis by morphological features and 16S rRNA gene, gyrA gene, and gyrB gene sequence analysis. When pepper seeds were treated with different concentrations of bacterial suspension, we found that a medium-concentration treatment (104 CFU/mL and 105 CFU/mL) could promote seed germination and growth, while high-concentration treatments (108 CFU/mL) limited seed germination and growth. In addition, the root-irrigation method, acupuncture-leaf method, and leaf-cutting method were used to evaluate the safety of strain Yb-1 on peppers. The results indicated that Yb-1 did not affect the normal growth of peppers. The results of further field trials showed that the control effect of strain Yb-1 on pepper anthracnose was 59.45%. Thus, the strain B. velezensis Yb-1 has great biocontrol potential for pepper anthracnose and promotes plant growth.
Vegetative Growth and Productivity of Potted Crocus sativus in Different Growing Media
Authors: El-Mahrouk Mohammed E. , Dewir Yaser Hassan , El-Ramady Hassan , Seliem Mayada Kadri
Published: March 2023

Saffron (Crocus sativus) is the most expensive spice in the world and a valuable medicinal plant. In this study, the flowering, vegetative growth performance, and daughter corm formation of potted saffron were investigated in six growing media: loamy soil, silty soil, sandy soil, peatmoss, peatmoss + sandy soil, and peatmoss + foam. The highest values of the stigma fresh weight, the root weight, and the number and diameter of daughter corms were observed in plants grown in soil with a light texture, i.e., sandy soil or peatmoss + foam, although smaller daughter corms were produced by sandy soil-grown plants. Compared with loamy soil (heavy soil), the peatmoss + foam growing medium increased the leaf pigment levels and the number of leaves and daughter corms, and it produced the highest number of daughter corms with diameters of ≥2 cm. Compared with plants in other media, saffron plants grown in loamy soil had higher catalase and peroxidase activities but lower polyphenol oxidase activity. Overall, saffron could be cultivated and produced in growing media with various pH values (4.00–9.25), although a mixture of peatmoss and foam was the optimal growing medium for potted saffron production. These findings are beneficial for selecting the optimal growing media/soil for saffron cultivation in farmlands.
Conceptual Framework for the Psychosocial Support of Nurses Caring for Patients Diagnosed with COVID-19 Infection in North West Province, South Africa
Authors: Dikobe Joan Mologadi , Moagi Miriam Mmamphamo , Sehularo Leepile Alfred
Published: March 2023

Introduction: A conceptual framework provides the detailed components or concepts identifying the interrelationships in and across a project’s components. Due to a lack of psychosocial support, nurses caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 are physically, psychologically and socially affected. However, there are no conceptual frameworks for the psychosocial support of nurses caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 infection in North West Province, South Africa. The purpose of this study was to develop a conceptual framework for the psychosocial support of these nurses. Design: A qualitative, descriptive phenomenological and contextual research design was followed to conduct this study. Six questions were used to classify concepts and develop the proposed framework. These six crucial questions are based on the agent, recipient, context, procedure, dynamics and terminus. Findings: The results of the framework involved the mobilisation of effective managerial support, the provision of adequate human medical healthcare resources and the mobilisation of support from nurses working in non-COVID wards and family members in the provision of psychological support systems (procedure). The newly developed conceptual framework aims to support nurses caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 infection in North West Province (terminus) and to improve their wellbeing. Conclusion: The developed framework provides information that can assist nurses in providing quality care to patients. Contribution: The framework will provide solutions for healthcare institutions to respond effectively to similar pandemics in the future, improving the psychosocial wellbeing of nurses caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19.
Factor VII Activating Protease (FSAP) and Its Importance in Hemostasis—Part I: FSAP Structure, Synthesis and Activity Regulation: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kwiatkowska Iga , Żekanowska Ewa , Lattanzi Simona , Alexandre Andrea M. , Kister-Kowalska Agata , Słomka Artur
Published: March 2023

Factor VII activating protease (FSAP) was first isolated from human plasma less than 30 years ago. Since then, many research groups have described the biological properties of this protease and its role in hemostasis and other processes in humans and other animals. With the progress of knowledge about the structure of FSAP, several of its relationships with other proteins or chemical compounds that may modulate its activity have been explained. These mutual axes are described in the present narrative review. The first part of our series of manuscripts on FSAP describes the structure of this protein and the processes leading to the enhancement and inhibition of its activities. The following parts, II and III, concern the role of FSAP in hemostasis and in the pathophysiology of human diseases, with particular emphasis on cardiovascular diseases.