bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Ethnographic Focus on Family Dynamics in Ghana, West Africa versus the United States
Authors: Stubbs Jalynn , Talpade Medha
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this study to explore and describe the family dynamics in Ghana, West Africa in comparison to those of African Americans in the United States of America. Analyzing these culture sharing patterns is especially important in the context of the historically black institution of higher learning, where African and American cultures intersect. Both groups, Africans in Africa and African-Americans in the U.S., will benefit from this research because this will bridge gaps in knowledge, making us a citizen of the world. I was able to travel to Ghana and immerse myself into their culture and for that short period of time, I was able to observe the differences in family dynamics in America versus those in Ghana. My research explores family dynamics in three sectors: Daily life, education, marriage/childbearing. Many components make these three overarching sectors. Both Ghana and America are countries going through changes with a diverse population that provides different perspectives and opportunities for the exchange of new ideas that can stimulate innovation and creativity (VanAlstine, Cox, & Roden, 2015). Research has been conducted to investigate the educational system in both America and Ghana and the different levels in which one can obtain a degree/certificate. Studies also explore the extent to which families in both Ghana and America value education. Marriage practices also differ in Ghana versus the United States and have changed many times over centuries. This study is important in that it explores these differences based on the lived experiences of the participants who are a part of each culture. In order to collect data, three focus groups were conducted among college students in both Ghana and the United States. Students who attended The University of Ghana, The University of Cape Coast, and students of the Atlanta University Center shared their lived experiences and their family dynamics. There were a total of 13 interview questions in order to explore daily life, education, roles/hierarchy, occupation, and marriage. All questions asked were open-ended, allowing the participants to discuss their experiences in detail. For example, “Describe the roles of men and women in your family” is a question that received extensive responses due to the fact that is was more subjective than objective. Atlas Ti revealed the following themes that arose from the analysis—meals, leisure activities, the value of education, attitudes toward premarital childbearing, and family roles among others. Validation strategies used are rich thick descriptions, reflexivity, and member checking. Understanding the daily lives and contexts of individuals in Ghana and in the U.S. has not been conducted systematically to date, and such an exploration is expected to help build a bridge of understanding and respect between the related cultures in addition to using best practices that will benefit the cultures mutually.
Spectrophotometric Analysis of Chromium (VI) Levels in Varying Arizona County Water Samples used to Determine which County Water Contains the Most Toxicity when Introduced to Yeast
Authors: Khamisi Madleen , Falcone Danielle , Bentley Christina , Marshall Pamela
Published: November 2020

This study analyzed the Chromium (VI) levels present in three Arizona counties tap water, as represented by the major universities residing within them. Each sample was surveyed using spectrophotometry to determine the contaminant levels of Cr(VI) in the water. Introduction to the yeast strain BY4742 was observed to determine whether the contaminated water dampened culture growth. When compared to the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 0.1 mg/L set by the EPA, Maricopa County contained 14x the amount allowable at 1.4 mg/L. The samples collected for Coconino County and Pima County also displayed contaminant levels higher than the set MCL at 0.3 mg/L and 0.5 mg/L, respectively. Data collected on yeast growth illustrated that Maricopa County was also the most hindering on yeast growth at an average cell count of 97. However, the chosen yeast strain also demonstrated an apparent resistance to Cr(VI) with an average cell count of 120 cells in the Cr(VI) plate. Due to this strains survival in Cr(VI) contaminated water, our initial hypothesis was rejected. Possible generational studies can be done to observe the toxic effects higher levels of Cr(VI) in drinking water have with regard to organismal growth hindrance and accumulation of the element leading to carcinogenic properties. Additional analysis on what other contaminants lie within Arizona counties can be performed, as well.
The improvement of the functional condition of micro-vascular endothelium among the aged people with metabolic syndrome under quercetin influence
Authors: . Korkushko Oleg , Bondarenko Olena , Duzhak Georgij , Antonuk-Shchehlova Ivanna , Naskalova Svitlana , Grib Oksana , Shatilo Valeri , Havalko Anna
Published: November 2020

Abstract. The Aim of study is the impact of course application of quercetin on the functional state of the endothelium of the microvessels in elderly people with metabolic syndrome. Materials and methods. We examined 110 patients (55 primary and 55 control patients) with metabolic syndrome (MS). Patients in the main group (n = 55) received quercetin ("Kvertin", chewing tablets manufactured by PJSC "Borshchagovsky KFZ", 80 mg 3 times a day) during 3 months. The control group patients (n = 55) received placebo tablets.
The volume velocity of skin blood flow in the region of the middle third of the inner surface of the forearm was determined using the laser doppler flowmetry (LDP) on the apparatus BLF-21D (Transonic Systems Inc, USA). The functional state of the endothelium of microvessels was examined in a sample with post-exclusive hyperemia by clamping shoulder vessels of with a cuff for 3 minutes, in which the pressure exceeded the systolic blood pressure of the subject by 50 mm Hg. Blood pressure was measured by the Erkameter 3000 (Germany) mercury sphygmomanometer on the shoulder artery in accordance with ESH recommendations. Results. In the group of patients receiving quercetin, when performing a test with post-occlusive hyperemia, there was a statistically significant increase in the maximum volumetric velocity of the skin blood flow and the duration of the recovery period, the volumetric velocity of the skin blood flow to the initial level, which indicates an improvement in the vasomotor function of the microvessel endothelium. Improvement of the functional state of the endothelium occurred in 38 of 55 patients (69%) examined and was accompanied by a significant decrease in the level of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Patients in the control group showed no improvement in the indices of vasomotor function of the microvessel endothelium. Conclusions. Course application of quercetin improves the functional state of the endothelium of microvessels, which helps to lower blood pressure in patients with metabolic syndrome.
Key words: metabolic; syndrome; quercetin; functional state of the endothelium; arterial pressure
A TOSSE DOS IECAS É REALMENTE UM FATOR LIMITANTE
Authors:   Faculdades de Medicina, UnesulBahia, Bahia, Brasil, Magalhães Lucélia
Published: November 2020

A hipertensão é um problema de saúde pública no Brasil e no mundo. Seu tratamento é fundamental para reduzir lesões em órgãos alvos incluindo o sistema arterial. Assim uma das principais classes terapêuticas são os fármacos que atuam no importante sistema de controle hemodinâmico e metabólico como o sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona. Dentre estas classes, os inibidores da enzima conversora da angiotensina (IECAs) tem um papel predominante por ser o primeiro a ser utilizado, acessível e com estudos robustos na diminuição da morbimortalidade. Apesar destas grandes vantagens existe como principal efeito adverso a tosse. Embora não acarrete riscos pode ser bastante desagradável. Afastado outras causas bem comuns de tosse e ela sendo incomodativa deve-se substituir esta família por outra classe terapêutica cuja tosse não tenha sido descrita como um efeito adverso.
Investigating the autonomy-supportive nature of a self-access environment: A self-determination theory approach
Authors: Mynard Jo , Shelton-Strong Scott J.
Published: November 2020

In this chapter, that authors take the reader out of the formal classroom into a large self-access centre. In this chapter, the authors describe a research project designed to investigate the extent to which autonomy-supportive conditions exist for fostering English language use in a large self-access learning centre (“the SALC”) in a university in Japan. Taking a self-determination theory (SDT) perspective (Deci & Ryan, 2000; Ryan & Deci, 2017), the authors look at factors within the environment that encourage greater engagement and support for autonomous motivation for using English. The authors begin by exploring the views of the student population via a survey (N=280), and through structured interviews (N=108). They also draw on the observations of the team of 11 learning advisors (LAs) who work full time in the SALC using an observation framework. Results indicated that many of the features of the SALC were autonomy-supportive in general, but that some areas could benefit from further enhancement. These enhancements might include communicating more clearly to the student body the underlying policies and initiatives relating to the SALC learning environment, additional scaffolding to facilitate competent engagement with the multiple learning affordances found there, and increased opportunities for regularly connecting with other students as a formal initiative within the SALC.
Analyzing Ghana’s Tourism Operating Environment
A Political Economy Perspective
Authors: Boakye Kwaku Adutwum Ayim , Adams Issahaku , Adongo Charles Atanga
Published: November 2020

Notwithstanding its importance to the success of businesses and industries, the external operating environment is hardly a subject of interest in the tourism literature. But understanding the operating environment is of major value when assessing the efficacy of tourism and its role as a vehicle for socio-economic transformation in any country. The present study, therefore, employs a qualitative design within a political economy framework to assess the current environment within which Ghana‟s tourism operates. Using unstructured in-depth interviews the study collates views from 10 senior tourism sector operatives representing both public and private sectors chosen through the purposive sampling technique. The findings suggest that the political and economic factors of the present operating environment combine to create a difficult operational theatre for both the public and private sector actors in tourism. By implication, therefore, the environment disables rather than enables the tourism trade and circumscribes its potential for expansion. To reverse the situation it is recommended that the existing organizational structures must be repositioned and also there must be a reorientation of the existing ideological and fiscal policies.
Perception of Postgraduate Students on Customer Service at the School of Graduate Studies, University of Cape Coast
Authors: Addo-Nkrumah Betty K.
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to examine the quality of service provided by the School of Graduate Studies, University of Cape Coast to its students (customers). This study employed a descriptive survey design. A questionnaire designed by the researchers was used to obtain data from 400 postgraduate students (customers), using the stratified sampling technique. Data were presented and analyzed using descriptive statistics which included frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation. The study found that staff members at the School of Graduate Studies, University of Cape Coast provide quality services to postgraduate students at different dimensions when they seek assistance. It was therefore recommended that the Directorate of Human Resource in collaboration with Training and Development Section of the University of Cape Coast should include aspect of customer care topics in the training programmes for all categories of staff in order to improve professionalism in tangibility dimension of service delivery.
Universal Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length polymorphism (UMPCR-RFLP) for Rapid Detection and Species Identification of Fungal and Mycobacterial Pathogens
Authors: SZEKELY Jidapa , CHELAE Sureerat , INGVIYA Natnicha , RUKCHANG Weerapan , AUEPEMKIATE Sauvarat , AIEMPANAKIT Kumpol
Published: November 2020

Fungal and mycobacterial skin infections are common in immunocompromised patients and patients with febrile neutropenia, since the patients’ ability to control localized infection is diminished by the disease. The similarity of the lesions caused by these organisms conduces to difficulty of differential diagnosis. Although a histopathological examination and a microbial culture are standard methods for laboratory diagnosis of skin infection, the methods have drawbacks. Histopathological examination yields low positive results, while microbial culture is time-consuming and might result in no growth, causing delayed treatment. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an in-house rapid polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) for the detection and identification of fungal and mycobacterial pathogens in resource-limited laboratories. A total of 26 typed species of human pathogenic fungi and 12 species of mycobacteria were used. Strain differentiation was analyzed by using multiplex PCR-RFLP. The internal transcript spacer region (ITS) of fungi and heat-shock protein 65 (hsp65) gene of mycobacteria were amplified using ITS1-ITS4 and Tb11-Tb12 universal primers, respectively. The RFLP patterns were examined at genus-specific and species-specific level. No cross-amplification was observed between fungal and mycobacterial tested strains, nor any specific binding between primers and human DNA. It was concluded that the multiplex PCR-RFLP method developed in this study can be used as a molecular diagnostic test for fungal and mycobacterial species identification. In the future, this technique may be useful for detecting fungal and mycobacterial infection directly from clinical specimens.
Enhanced Antibacterial Activity of Meropenem against Extensively Drug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii by Myrtaceae Plant Extracts
Authors: SAELOH Dennapa , VISUTTHI Monton , LEEHA Marisa , LIMSUWAN Surasak , VORAVUTHIKUNCHAI Supayang Piyawan
Published: November 2020

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) has been known as a major cause of nosocomial bacterial infections worldwide. The bacteria are increasingly associated with a broad spectrum of antibiotic resistance, and this has become a widespread concern in a variety of hospitals.Antibiotic development and alternative treatment have become priorities for the treatment of bacterial infections.This study investigated the efficacy of meropenem in combination with five ethanolic extracts of plants in Myrtaceae against extensively drug-resistant (XDR) A. baumannii. The resistant phenotype was previously determined by microdilution method. XDR-A. baumannii strains showed resistance to meropenem with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) in a range of 16 - 128 µg/mL, whereas the MIC value of all extracts, including Calistemon lancealatus, Eucalyptus citridora, Rhodomytus tomentasa, Syzygium cumini, and Xanthortemon chrysanthus, was over 1,000 µg/mL. Interestingly, all extracts potentiated the activity of the antibiotic by reducing the MIC values of the antibiotic. Xanthortemon chrysanthus extract displayed excellent synergism against the bacteria by decreasing the MIC value of the drug greater than 8-fold. In addition, the extract, at concentrations of 31.25, 62.5, 125, 250, 500, and 1,000 µg/mL, obviously increased the inhibitory effect of meropenem (1/4´MIC) against A. baumannii. The percentage of bacterial growth inhibition by combination was 87.9, 88.8, 91.8, 93.6, 99.9, and 100, respectively. The results supported that the extract could improve the activity of ineffective antibiotics against drug-resistant pathogens.Therefore, the findings may serve as therapeutic options for XDR-A. baumannii infections in the future.
Antibacterial Activity of Lupinifolin from Derris reticulata and Its Effect on Cytoplasmic Membrane of Methicillin Resistant
Authors: YUSOOK Kamol , PANVONGSA Pettaya
Published: November 2020

Lupinifolin from Derris reticulata Craib. was extracted with hexane by Soxhlet extractor and purified by crystallization. The yellow needle-shaped lupinifolin crystals were identified and confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra and Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS). The lupinifolin showed minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 8 and 16 µg/ml against Methicillin resistant S. aureus (MRSA), respectively. The flow cytometry (FCM) was performed to determine the alteration of cytoplasmic membrane (CM) permeability of MRSA by using Propidium iodide (PI) 5 µg/ml as an indicator for bacterial membrane integrity. It was found that the bacterial CM permeability was effected by lupinifolin with the MIC of 8 µg/ml comparable to the control when investigated by Propidium iodide intensity. Additionally, DNA laddering assay was carried out to evaluate apoptosis in bacterial cells. It was shown that the lupinifolin has no effect on DNA fragmentation.
Prediction of Rheological Properties and Interfacial Tension of Mixtures of Immiscible Polypropylene-Polystyrene (PP3/PS) Blends
Authors: BOUDOUKHANI Meriem , MOULAI-MOSTEFA Nadji , HAMMANI Salim
Published: November 2020

Blends of polypropylene (PP3) and polystyrene (PS) were studied and, their rheological behavior was determined and discussed in detail. The interfacial tension between the blend components was evaluated from the rheological data and the storage modulus by using two well-known models: Palierne model and Choi-Schowalter equation. The theoretical predictions were compared with experimental data obtained from PP3/PS blends. The obtained results showed that the Palierne model could predict the rheological and viscoelastic properties of the considered polymer blends. In addition, the interfacial tensions between PP3 and PS were evaluated and compared with those cited in the literature. It was also found that the Palierne model was more accurate than Choi-Schowalter one in determining the interfacial tension.
Sweet Sticky Rice Puree Diet for Elderly with Dysphagia
Authors: CHOICHUEDEE Paweerisa , SUTTISANSANEE Uthaiwan , HUDTHAGOSOL Chatrapa , SANPORKHA Promluck
Published: November 2020

This research aimed to study the effect of xanthan gum (XG) on physico-chemical and sensory properties of sweet sticky rice puree diet (SRD). The 3 different concentrations of XG at 0.75, 1.00, and 1.25 % (w/w) were added to SRD. The results showed that shear stress and shear rate (50 s-1) at 25 °C of SRD with 0.75, 1.00, and 1.25 % (w/w) were fitted to the power law model with high determination coefficients (R2 = 0.94 - 0.97). All of the SRD samples showed high shear-thinning behavior (n = 0.18 - 0.21), and the apparent viscosities were in the range of 5.13 to 7.07 Pa.s. Thus, all 3 SRD samples were classified as pureed diet. Sensory evaluation was conducted by 20 elderly people with dysphagia, who classified as an untrained panel. The results showed that texture, color, flavor, taste, and overall acceptability of SRD with different levels of XG were not significantly different (p > 0.05), but SRD with 0.75 % XG was selected to be further developed, because it was identified by the elderly people with dysphagia that it was the easiest to swallow puree diet. In addition, the total phenolic content and antioxidant activities by DPPH, FRAP, and ORAC assay of SRD with 0.75 % XG were 29.52 mgGAE/100g, 45.16, 88.96, and 497.87 µmol TE/100g, respectively. In conclusion, SRD could improve swallowing safety for the elderly with dysphagia and is able to be classified as a pureed diet following the standards of the National Dysphagia Diet.
Production and Properties of Biosurfactant from Pectinatus cerevisiiphilus CT3 Isolated from Marine Sediments
Authors: SAENGE CHOOKLIN Chanika , SAIMMAI Atipan
Published: November 2020

A marine bacterial isolate, Pectinatus cerevisiiphilus CT3, was able to grow and produce biosurfactant on minimal salts media using glucose and NaNO3 as carbon and nitrogen sources. It was found that cellular growth and biosurfactant production in MSM were greatly affected by the medium components. After 54 h of cultivation, P. cerevisiiphilus CT3 was able to grow and produce surfactant, reducing the surface tension of the medium to 28.0 mN/m with a biosurfactant concentration of 3.05 g/l and a critical micelle concentration of 10 mg/l. Biosurfactant recovery by chloroform/methanol extraction showed pH and thermal stability with respect to surface tension reduction. It also showed emulsification activity and a high level of salt concentration. In addition, promising antimicrobial activity was revealed when tested against human pathogenic bacterial and fungal isolates. Based on these results, the isolated biosurfactant from the marine bacteria P. cerevisiiphilus CT3 revealed a broad physicochemical stability and has excellent antimicrobial properties, indicating the potential for possible use in various therapeutic and biomedical applications.
Diagnosis of Dieback Disease of the Nutmeg Tree in Aceh Selatan, Indonesia
Authors: SUSANNA Susanna , SINAGA Meity Suradji , WIYONO Suryo , TRIWIDODO Hermanu
Published: November 2020

Effective control disease measures require a great deal of knowledge about the pathogen, which is also applied to dieback disease of the nutmeg tree in Aceh Selatan District, Province of Aceh, Indonesia. The objectives of this study were to identify the causal agent of dieback disease on a nutmeg plantation and to assess the effect of drought stress on the development of dieback disease. Pathogen identification was carried out by observing the symptoms of infected plants, morphological characters of the isolated pathogens, Koch’s postulates, and molecular analysis and pure pathogen cultures. The samples were taken from an infected part of the nutmeg plant (twigs, stems, and roots) in 6 subdistricts at the center of the nutmeg plantation in Aceh Selatan. Koch's postulates were performed by using the mycelia of pathogens on 1-year-old nutmeg seedlings. Drought stress was simulated everyday, and then once every 2 weeks, to study the effect of drought stress on dieback. The results showed that there were 4 genera of fungal pathogens (Botryodiplodia theobromae, Fusarium solani, Graphium euwallaceae, and Rigidoporus microporus) out of 6 fungi associated with dieback disease. However, B. theobromae Pat. turned out to be the dominant fungi associated with dieback on the nutmeg tree in Aceh Selatan. Drought stress was proven to be a predisposing factor for explaining this problem epidemic in Aceh Selatan.
Brown Rice Extract Ameliorates Oxidative Status in Human Placental Cell Line (JEG-3) Induced by Cadmium Chloride
Authors: BOONSONG Tantip , BULANAWICHIT Wajathip
Published: November 2020

Cadmium (Cd) can induce oxidative stress by producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and affect the antioxidant defense systems, leading to cellular damage. Supplementation with antioxidants may protect against Cd-induced oxidative stress. This study aimed to investigate the effect of germinated brown rice (GBR), brown rice (BR), and white rice (WR) extracts against Cd-induced toxicity in human placenta (JEG-3) cells. The cytotoxicity of Cd and rice extracts was measured by MTT assay, and pre-treatments with GBR, BR, and WR before Cd exposure were examined. Intracellular ROS levels and the expression of SOD2 and GPx4 were determined by DCFH-DA assay and western blot, respectively. An antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was used as a positive control. The antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content of rice extracts were investigated by DPPH and Folin-Ciocalteu methods, respectively. The GBR extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity and total phenolic content, followed by BR and WR, respectively. Cd decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, whereas incubation with 0.1 - 0.5 mg/mL showed no toxicity in all rice extracts. Moreover, Cd treatments significantly (p < 0.05) increased ROS levels. Conversely, treatments with GBR and BR extracts decreased ROS. Similar results were observed for combinatorial treatments of GBR and BR with Cd, except for WR treatment. Additionally, significant increased SOD2 and decreased GPx4 expression levels were evident in the GBR group and in both GBR and BR pre-treated groups, respectively, compared to Cd exposure alone. These results suggest that brown rice pre-treatments may ameliorate oxidative status induced by Cd in cultured human placental cells.
Quality Assessment Criteria for Mobile Health Apps: A Systematic Review
Authors: HONGSANUN Wilasinee , INSUK Suppachai
Published: November 2020

Summative evidences on the criteria for user assessment of health apps are still limited. In order to determine an assessment method for mobile health apps, rigorous and appropriate criteria must be chosen. The aim of this study is to review the existing quality assessment criteria that are being used to assess the quality of mobile health apps focusing on users’ perspectives. In addition, a procedure for the quality assessment of health apps is also presented.

A systematic review was conducted utilizing 5 databases; PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, CENTRAL and IEEE Xplore from 2008 to 2017. Search terms were; “mHealth”, “Applications”, “iOS OR Android”, “smartphones”, “quality”, etc. Papers that assessed the quality of health apps by users were selected. The PRISMA guideline was followed to complete the list of final studies. Likewise, a data extraction form was based on the PICO framework. From 6,514 studies, 69 studies met the eligibility criteria. Four hundred and forty-one quality assessment criteria for users were classified into 15 domains: Ease of use, Usability, Aesthetics, Connectivity, Functionality, Information, User satisfaction, Acceptability, Error occurrence, Motivation, Engagement, Data management, Undesirable events, Credentials and Security and privacy. An “ease of use” domain was found common in the included studies. The 15 domains were suggested as criteria for further study of the quality assessment and development of mHealth apps. Moreover, five recommended steps were presented for future research of quality of mobile health apps.
Development of Healthy Snack from Sa-med Mushroom (Boletus griseipurpureus Corner)
Authors: KHEMTHONG Chanakan , CHAMCHAN Rungrat , SUTTISUNSANEE Uthaiwan , CHAROENKIATKUL Somsri , CHUPEERACH Chaowanee , ON-NOM Nattira
Published: November 2020

This study investigated alpha-glucosidase and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activities of Sa-med mushroom powder. Healthy snack had been developed by varying 3 levels of Sa-med mushroom powder at 10, 12 and 14 % (w/w) and determined its physico-chemical properties and sensory evaluation. The results showed that anti-alpha-glucosidase activity and anti-angiotensin-converting activities of Sa-med mushroom powder were at 59 and 93 %, respectively. As the results of healthy snack, lightness (L*) and extended ratio were decreased, but redness (a*) and bulk density were increased with higher amounts of Sa-med mushroom powder in the formulation (p < 0.05). However, hardness and crispiness were not significantly different. For sensory evaluation, healthy snack with 14 % Sa-med mushroom powder had the highest overall liking score of 7.6 (like moderately to like very much). Finally, the nutritional values of developed snack revealed that protein and fiber were increased by 3 and 18 times, while carbohydrate was decreased by 15 %. In addition, the mushroom snack could be claimed as a “source of protein”, “high fiber” and “low sodium”. This snack also had phenolic compounds, antioxidant activities and alpha-glucosidase, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activities. According to consumer acceptability test (n = 300), the acceptability level was 95 %, in which around 64 % of the subjects were interested in buying the product.
Impacts of the 4th Industrial Revolution on Industries
Authors: SOROOSHIAN Shahryar , PANIGRAHI Shrikant
Published: November 2020

The leap of technology has led to a paradigm shift called the “industrial revolution”. Industry 4.0 is the fourth industrial revolution which implemented the philosophy of cyber-physical systems, internet and future-oriented technologies, and smart systems with promoted human-machine interaction paradigms. The emergence of Industry 4.0 was introduced to the world as a new trend to improve working surroundings in industries and solve the problems faced by the industries. There is a limited information about Industry 4.0 and not every person understands the real meaning of Industry 4.0. Thus, the objective of this review paper is to identify the possible impacts of Industry 4.0 on manufacturing industries which will encourage more organizations to adopt Industry 4.0.
Storytelling—Plots of resilience, learning, and discovery in emergency management
Authors: Freitag, CFM Bob , Hicks, PhD, CEM, MEP Thad , Jerolleman, PhD, MPA, CFM Alessandra , Walsh, MA Wendy
Published: November 2020

Almost everyone can relate to the experience of telling a story. This article explores how storytelling is being used to identify risks and create hazard mitigation strategies, as well as how it can promote learning within the field of emergency management. Storytelling is both a pedagogical tool and an invaluable resource for practicing emergency managers. This article illustrates the ways in which the process of telling a story enables participates to talk about stressful concerns, internalize complex concepts, and even have fun. The article explores how storytelling drove the public process leading to the adoption of hazard mitigation plans, and how eight types of stories, as defined by the American humorist Kurt Vonnegut, can strengthen emergency management education. This article also explores how research suggests that storytelling can provide an effective way for both the tellers of story and their listeners to find meaning in events, provide context to what is being taught, transmit emotion along with information, develop a professional identity, build empathy and compassion, and help with remembering events and lessons learned. The authors have a long history of utilizing storytelling and present this article in order to share and explore storytelling as applied to the discipline of emergency management.
Preparedness and response at long-term care facilities following Hurricane Sandy: A qualitative analysis of experiences and attitudes among staff and administrators
Authors: Jiang, MD Lynn , Tedeschi, MD, MA Christopher M.
Published: November 2020

Background: In late 2012, Hurricane Sandy struck the eastern United States. Healthcare infrastructure in New York City—including long-term care facilities (LTCFs)—was affected significantly. The authors examined the impact of the storm on LTCFs 2 years after the event, using a qualitative approach consisting of a semistructured interview focused on preparedness and response. Important insights regarding preparedness and response may be lost by quantitative analysis or outcome measurement alone. During Sandy, individuals at LTCFs experienced the event in important subjective ways that, in aggregate, could lead to valuable insights about how facilities might mitigate future risks. The authors used data from a semistructured interview to generate hypotheses regarding the preparation and response of LTCFs. The interview tool was designed to help develop theories to explain why LTCF staff and administrators experienced the event in the way they did, and to use that data to inform future policy and research. Methods: Representatives from LTCFs located in a heavily affected area of New York City were approached for participation in a semistructured interview. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. Recurrent themes were coded based on time period (before, during, or after the storm) and content. A grounded theory approach was used to identify important themes related to the participants’ experiences.Results: A total of 21 interviews were conducted. Several overarching themes were identified, including a perception that facilities had not prepared for an event of such magnitude, of inefficient communication and logistics during evacuation, and of lack of easily identifiable or appropriate resources after the event. Access to electrical power emerged as a key identifier of recovery for most facilities. The experience had a substantial psychological impact on LTCF staff regardless of whether they evacuated or sheltered in place during the storm.Conclusion: Representatives from LTCFs affected by Sandy experienced the preparation, response, and recovery phases of the event with a unique perspective. Their insights offer evidence which can be used to generate testable hypothesis regarding similar events in the future, and can inform policy makers and facility administrators alike as they prepare for extreme weather events in similar settings. Results specifically suggest that LTCFs develop plans which carefully address the unique qualities of extreme weather events, including communication with local officials, evacuation and transfer needs in geographic areas with multiple facilities, and plans for the safe transfer of residents. Emergency managers at LTCFs should consider electrical power needs with the understanding that in extreme weather events, power failures can be more protracted than in other types of emergencies.
Emission of biogenic volatile organic compounds from warm and oligotrophic seawater in the Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Dayan Chen , Fredj Erick , Misztal Pawel K. , Gabay Maor , Guenther Alex B. , Tas Eran
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) from terrestrial vegetation and
marine organisms contribute to photochemical pollution and affect the
radiation budget, cloud properties and precipitation via secondary organic
aerosol formation. Their emission from both marine and terrestrial
ecosystems is substantially affected by climate change in ways that are
currently not well characterized. The Eastern Mediterranean Sea was
identified as a climate change “hot spot”, making it a natural laboratory
for investigating the impact of climate change on BVOC emissions from both
terrestrial and marine vegetation. We quantified the mixing ratios of a
suite of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including isoprene, dimethyl
sulfide (DMS), acetone, acetaldehyde and monoterpenes, at a mixed vegetation
site ∼4 km from the southeastern tip of the Levantine Basin,
where the sea surface temperature (SST) maximizes and ultra-oligotrophic
conditions prevail. The measurements were performed between July and October
2015 using a proton transfer reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometer
(PTR-ToF-MS). The analyses were supported by the Model of Emissions of Gases
and Aerosols from Nature (MEGAN v2.1). For isoprene and DMS mixing ratios,
we identified a dominant contribution from the seawater. Our analyses
further suggest a major contribution, at least for monoterpenes, from the
seawater. Our results indicate that the Levantine Basin greatly contributes
to isoprene emissions, corresponding with mixing ratios of up to
∼9 ppbv several kilometers inland from the sea shore. This
highlights the need to update air quality and climate models to account for
the impact of SST on marine isoprene emission. The DMS mixing ratios were 1 to 2 orders of magnitude lower than those measured in 1995 in the same
area, suggesting a dramatic decrease in emissions due to changes in the
species composition induced by the rise in SST.
Improved inversion of aerosol components in the atmospheric column from remote sensing data
Authors: Zhang Ying , Li Zhengqiang , Chen Yu , de Leeuw Gerrit , Zhang Chi , Xie Yisong , Li Kaitao
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Knowledge of the composition of atmospheric aerosols is important
for reducing uncertainty in climate assessment. In this study, an
improved algorithm is developed for the retrieval of atmospheric columnar
aerosol components from optical remote sensing data. This is achieved by
using the complex refractive index (CRI) of a multicomponent liquid system
in the forward model and minimizing the differences with the observations.
The aerosol components in this algorithm comprise five species, combining
eight subcomponents including black carbon (BC), water-soluble organic matter (WSOM) and
water-insoluble organic matter (WIOM), ammonium nitrate (AN), sodium
chloride (SC), dust-like content (DU), and aerosol water content in the fine and
coarse modes (AWf and AWc). The calculation of the CRI in the
multicomponent liquid system allows for the separation of the water-soluble components
(AN, WSOM and AWf) in the fine mode and SC and AWc in the
coarse mode. The uncertainty in the retrieval results is analyzed based on
the simulation of typical models, showing that the complex refractive index
obtained from instantaneous optical–physical inversion compares well with
that obtained from chemical estimation. The algorithm was used to retrieve
the columnar aerosol components over China using the ground-based remote
sensing measurements from the Sun–sky radiometer Observation NETwork (SONET)
in the period from 2010 to 2016. The results were used to analyze the
regional distribution and interannual variation. The analysis shows that the
atmospheric columnar DU component is dominant in the northern region of
China, whereas the AW is higher in the southern coastal region. The SC
component retrieved over the desert in northwest China originates from a
paleomarine source. The AN significantly decreased from 2011 to 2016, by
21.9 mg m−2, which is inseparable from China's environmental control
policies.
Oxidation of low-molecular weight organic compounds in cloud
droplets: global impact on tropospheric oxidants
Authors: Rosanka Simon , Sander Rolf , Franco Bruno , Wespes Catherine , Wahner Andreas , Taraborrelli Domenico
Published: November 2020

Abstract. In liquid cloud droplets, superoxide anion (O−2(aq)) is known to quickly consume ozone (O3(aq)), which is relatively insoluble. The significance of this reaction as tropospheric O3 sink is sensitive to the abundance of O−2(aq) and therefore to the production of its main precursor, hydroperoxyl radical (HO2(aq)). The aqueous-phase oxidation of oxygenated volatile organic compounds (OVOCs) is the major source of HO2(aq) in cloud droplets. Hence, the lack of explicit aqueous-phase chemical kinetics in global atmospheric models leads to a general underestimation of clouds as O3 sinks. In this study, the importance of in-cloud OVOC oxidation for tropospheric composition is assessed by using the Chemistry As A Boxmodel Application (CAABA) and the global atmospheric model ECHAM/MESSy (EMAC), which are both capable of explicitly representing the relevant chemical transformations. For this analysis, three different in-cloud oxidation mechanisms are employed: (1) one including the basic oxidation of SO2(aq) via O3(aq) and H2O2(aq), which thus represents the capabilities of most global models, (2) the more advanced standard EMAC mechanism, which includes inorganic chemistry and simplified degradation of methane oxidation products, and (3) the detailed in-cloud OVOC oxidation scheme Jülich Aqueous-phase Mechanism of Organic Chemistry (JAMOC). By using EMAC, the global impact of each mechanism is assessed focusing mainly on tropospheric volatile organic compounds (VOCs), HOx (HOx = OH+HO2), and O3. This is achieved by performing a detailed HOx and O3 budget analysis in the gas- and aqueous-phase. The resulting changes are evaluated against O3 and methanol (CH3OH) satellite observations from the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI) for 2015. In general, the explicit in-cloud oxidation leads to an overall reduction of predicted OVOCs levels, and reduces EMAC's overestimation of some OVOCs in the tropics. The in-cloud OVOC oxidation shifts the HO2 production from the gas- to the aqueous-phase. As a result, the O3 budget is perturbed with scavenging being enhanced and the gas-phase chemical losses being reduced. With the simplified in-cloud chemistry, about 13 Tg a−1 of O3 are scavenged, which increases to 336 Tg a−1 when JAMOC is used. The highest O3 reduction of 12 % is predicted in the upper troposphere/lower stratosphere (UTLS). These changes in the free troposphere significantly reduce the modelled tropospheric ozone columns, which are known to be generally overestimated by EMAC and other global atmospheric models.
A miniature Portable Emissions Measurement System (PEMS) for real-driving monitoring of motorcycles
Authors: Vojtisek-Lom Michal , Zardini Alessandro A. , Pechout Martin , Dittrich Lubos , Forni Fausto , Montigny François , Carriero Massimo , Giechaskiel Barouch , Martini Giorgio
Published: November 2020

Abstract. We present an exploratory study carried out with a new miniature portable
emission measurement system (Mini-PEMS) specifically designed at the
Technical University of Liberec (CZ) for applications on two-wheeler vehicles
owing to its reduced size (45cm×30×20cm) and weight (≈15 kg).
It measures the exhaust gas concentrations of hydrocarbons and carbon mono-
and dioxide with a nondispersive infrared method and nitrogen mono- and
dioxides and oxygen using an electrochemical cell. In addition, the
instrument acquires the engine speed, manifold absolute pressure,
inlet and exhaust gas temperature, geo-localization, and vehicle speed.
The exhaust mass flow rate is calculated from engine and emission data. The
Mini-PEMS was validated on three two-wheelers (one moped and two motorcycles)
against laboratory-grade instrumentation in the Vehicle Emissions Laboratory
of the European Commission in terms of measured concentrations, exhaust
flow, fuel consumption, and mass emission of pollutants. The mean absolute
deviations of gas concentrations were 8 % for HC, 8 % for CO, 13 % for
NOx, and 2 % for CO2, while the mass emissions (which include the
exhaust flow determination uncertainty) were 7 % for HC, 7 % for CO,
9 % for NOx, and 5 % for CO2. An agreement of 2 % was
achieved between the fuel consumption measured in the laboratory and
calculated by the Mini-PEMS. As an application, the instrument was tested on
board the vehicles during on-road trips. The emissions measured on the road
were consistent among repeated runs, with differences between laboratory and
on-road tests much larger than those between the Mini-PEMS and laboratory. We
found similar or larger HC and NOx real-driving emissions and larger CO emissions from
motorcycles and smaller ones for the moped. Considering its size and weight, the
Mini-PEMS proved to be an efficient tool for vehicle monitoring, research
and development and could be tested for in-service monitoring applications
related to carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides emissions. A tentative
approach to characterize particulate mass and particle number was presented
and compared to the existing filter method and nonvolatile particle number
protocol.
Retrieval and validation of forest background reflectivity from daily
MODIS bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) data
across European forests
Authors: Pisek Jan , Erb Angela , Korhonen Lauri , Biermann Tobias , Carrara Arnaud , Cremonese Edoardo , Cuntz Matthias , Fares Silvano , Gerosa Giacomo , Grünwald Thomas , Hase Niklas , Heliasz Michal , Ibrom Andreas , Knohl Alexander , Kobler Johannes , Kruijt Bart , Lange Holger , Leppänen Leena , Limousin Jean-Marc , Serrano Francisco Ramon Lopez , Loustau Denis , Lukeš Petr , Lundin Lars , Marzuoli Riccardo , Mölder Meelis , Montagnani Leonardo , Neirynck Johan , Peichl Matthias , Rebmann Corinna , Rubio Eva , Santos-Reis Margarida , Schaaf Crystal , Schmidt Marius , Simioni Guillaume , Soudani Kamel , Vincke Caroline
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Information about forest background reflectance is needed for accurate biophysical parameter retrieval from forest canopies (overstory) with remote sensing. Separating under and overstory signals would enable more accurate modeling of forest carbon and energy fluxes. We retrieved values of normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) of forest understory with multi-angular Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF)/albedo data (gridded 500 meter daily Collection 6 product), using a method originally developed for boreal forests. The forest floor background reflectance estimates from MODIS data were compared with in situ understory reflectance measurements carried out at an extensive set of forest ecosystem experimental sites across Europe. The reflectance estimates from MODIS data were hence tested across diverse forest conditions and phenological phases during the growing season, to examine its applicability on ecosystems other than boreal forests. Here we report the method can deliver good retrievals especially over different forest types with open canopies (low foliage cover). The performance of the method was found limited over forests with closed canopies (high foliage cover), where the signal from understory gets much attenuated. The spatial heterogeneity of individual field sites as well as the limitations and documented quality of the MODIS BRDF product are shown to be important for correct assessment and validation of the retrievals obtained with remote sensing.
Sources and cycling of nitrogen in a New England river discerned from
nitrate isotope ratios
Authors: Rollinson Veronica R. , Granger Julie , Clark Sydney C. , Blanusa Mackenzie L. , Koerting Claudia P. , Vaudrey Jamie M. P. , Treibergs Lija A. , Westbrook Holly C. , Matassa Catherine M. , Hastings Meredith K. , Tobias Craig R.
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Coastal waters globally are increasingly impacted due to the anthropogenic loading of nitrogen (N) from the watershed. In order to assess dominant sources of N contributing to the eutrophication of the Little Narragansett Bay estuary in New England, we carried out an annual study of N loading from the Pawcatuck River. We conducted weekly monitoring of nutrients and nitrate (NO3−) isotope ratios (15N / 14N, 18O / 16O and 17O / 16O) at the mouth of the river and from the larger of two Waste Water Treatment Facilities (WWTFs) along the estuary, as well as seasonal along-river surveys. Our observations reveal a direct relationship between N loading and the magnitude of river discharge, and a consequent seasonality to N loading into the estuary – rendering loading from the WWTFs and from an industrial site upriver more important at lower river flows during warmer months, comprising ~23 % and ~18 % of N loading, respectively. Riverine nutrients derived predominantly from deeper groundwater and the industrial point source upriver during low base flow in summer, and from shallower groundwater and surface flow at higher river flows during colder months. Loading of dissolved organic nitrogen appeared to increase with river discharge, ostensibly delivered by surface water. The NO3− associated with deeper groundwater had higher 15N / 14N ratios than shallower groundwater, consistent with the expectation fractionation due to partial denitrification. Along-river, NO3− 15N / 14N ratios showed a correspondence to regional land use, increasing from agricultural and forested catchments to the more urbanized watershed downriver, with the agricultural and urbanized portions of the watershed contributing disproportionately to total N loading. Corresponding NO3− 18O / 16O ratios were lower during the warm season, a dynamic that we ascribe to increased biological cycling in-river. The 18O / 16O isotope ratios along-river were consistent with the notion of nutrient spiraling, reflecting NO3− input from the watershed and in-river nitrification and its coincident removal by biological consumption. Uncycled atmospheric NO3−, detected from its unique mass-independent NO3− 17O / 16O vs. 18O / 16O fractionation, accounted for