bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Route Discovery Using Modified Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm in Wireless Ad-Hoc Visible Light Communication Network
Authors: Vadivel Sharmila , Konda Srinivas , Balmuri Kavitha Rani , Stateczny Andrzej , Parameshachari B. D.
Published: May 2021

In recent times, visible light communication is an emerging technology that supports high speed data communication for wireless communication systems. However, the performance of the visible light communication system is impaired by inter symbol interference, the time dispersive nature of the channel, and nonlinear features of the light emitting diode that significantly reduces the bit error rate performance. To address these problems, many environments offer a rich infrastructure of light sources for end-to-end communication. In this research paper, an effective routing protocol named the modified grasshopper optimization algorithm is proposed to reduce communication interruptions, and to provide alternative routes in the network without the need of previous topology knowledge. In this research paper, the proposed routing protocol is implemented and analyzed using the MATLAB environment. The experimental result showed that the proposed routing protocol adapts to dynamic changes in the communication networks, like obstacles and shadows. Hence, the proposed protocol achieved better performance in data transmission in terms of throughput, packet delivery ratio, end-to-end delay, and routing overhead. In addition, the performance is analyzed by varying the number of nodes like 50, 100, 250, and 500. From the experimental analysis, the proposed routing protocol achieved maximum of 16.69% and minimum of 2.20% improvement in packet delivery ratio, and minimized 0.80 milliseconds of end-to-end delay compared to the existing optimization algorithms.
Combustion Stability, Performance and Emission Characteristics of a CI Engine Fueled with Diesel/n-Butanol Blends
Authors: Jamrozik Arkadiusz , Tutak Wojciech , Grab-Rogaliński Karol
Published: May 2021

The development of compression ignition engines depends mainly on using alternative fuels, such as alcohols. The paper presents the results of tests of a stationary compression ignition engine fueled with mixtures of diesel oil and n-butanol with an energy share from 0 to 60%. The combustion and emission results of a dual-fuel engine were compared to a conventional diesel-only engine. As part of the work, the combustion process, including changes in pressure and heat release rate, as well as exhaust emissions from the test engine, were investigated. The main operational parameters of the engine were determined, including mean indicated pressure, thermal efficiency and specific energy consumption. Moreover, the stability of the engine operation was analyzed. The research shows that the 60% addition of n-butanol to diesel fuel increases the ignition delay (by 39%) and shortens the combustion duration (by 57%). In addition, up to 40%, it results in increased pmax, HRRmax and PPRmax. The engine was characterized by the highest efficiency, equal to 41.35% when operating on DB40. In the whole range of alcohol content, the dual-fuel engine was stable. With the increase of n-butanol content to 40%, the emission of NOx increased. The lowest concentration of CO was obtained during the combustion of DB50. After the initial increase (for DB20), the THC emission was reduced to the lowest value for DB40. Increasing the energy share of alcohol to 60% resulted in a significant, more than 43 times, reduction in soot emissions.
Generalized Circuit Model of Shielded Capacitive Power Transfer
Authors: Ahmad Suziana , Hattori Reiji , Muharam Aam
Published: May 2021

A capacitive power transfer (CPT) system wirelessly transfers energy between coupling plates and performance issues related to CPT systems are resonance conditions, matching impedance, voltage stress, and power loss. A generalized circuit model is proposed for shielded capacitive power transfer (S-CPT) using an algebraic method. The proposed generalized S-CPT model is analyzed based on the symmetric and asymmetric configurations, and the relationship between the parameters of S-CPT is obtained with respect to the resonance condition, matching impedance, voltage stress, and efficiency. The best configuration of a symmetric S-CPT is recommended, and an asymmetric S-CPT is proposed based on the analysis results. Asymmetric-S-CPT hardware was constructed and demonstrated an operating frequency of 13.56 MHz. The hardware experimental result shows the validity and effectiveness of the proposed generalized model for designing S-CPT.
A Hybrid Jaya–Powell’s Pattern Search Algorithm for Multi-Objective Optimal Power Flow Incorporating Distributed Generation
Authors: Gupta Saket , Kumar Narendra , Srivastava Laxmi , Malik Hasmat , Pliego Marugán Alberto , García Márquez Fausto Pedro
Published: May 2021

A new hybrid meta-heuristic approach Jaya–PPS, which is the combination of the Jaya algorithm and Powell’s Pattern Search method, is proposed in this paper to solve the optimal power flow (OPF) problem for minimization of fuel cost, emission and real power losses and total voltage deviation simultaneously. The recently developed Jaya algorithm has been applied for the exploration of search space, while the excellent local search capability of the PPS (Powell’s Pattern Search) method has been used for exploitation purposes. Integration of the local search procedure into the classical Jaya algorithm was carried out in three different ways, which resulted in three versions, namely, J-PPS1, J-PPS2 and J-PPS3. These three versions of the proposed hybrid Jaya–PPS approach were developed and implemented to solve the OPF problem in the standard IEEE 30-bus and IEEE 57-bus systems integrated with distributed generating units optimizing four objective functions simultaneously and IEEE 118-bus system for fuel cost minimization. The obtained results of the three versions are compared to the Dragonfly Algorithm, Grey Wolf Optimization Algorithm, Jaya Algorithm and already published results using other methods. A comparison of the results clearly demonstrates the superiority of the proposed J–PPS3 algorithm over different algorithms/versions and the reported methods.
Nonlinear Steady-State Optimization of Large-Scale Gas Transmission Networks
Authors: Osiadacz Andrzej J. , Kwestarz Małgorzata
Published: May 2021

The major optimization problem of the gas transmission system is to determine how to operate the compressors in a network to deliver a given flow within the pressure bounds while using minimum compressor power (minimum fuel consumption or maximum network efficiency). Minimization of fuel usage is a major objective to control gas transmission costs. This is one of the problems that has received most of the attention from both practitioners and researchers because of its economic impact. The article describes the algorithm of steady-state optimization of a high-pressure gas network of any structure that minimizes the operating cost of compressors. The developed algorithm uses the “sequential quadratic programming (SQP)” method. The tests carried out on the real network segment confirmed the correctness of the developed algorithm and, at the same time, proved its computational efficiency. Computational results obtained with the SQP method demonstrate the viability of this approach.
A GIS-Based Model to Assess the Potential of Wastewater Treatment Plants for Enhancing Bioenergy Production within the Context of the Water–Energy Nexus
Authors: Valenti Francesca , Toscano Attilio
Published: May 2021

The necessity of developing renewable energy sources has contributed to increasing interest in developing the anaerobic digestion for producing biomethane since it both provides green energy and reduces disposal treatment. In this regard, to assure efficient water utilization by finding alternative water sources, sewage sludge collected from the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) was recently investigated because it could represent a suitable resource for producing biomethane within the context of a circular economy. Therefore, this study aims at improving the current knowledge on the feasibility of biomethane production from sewage sludge by optimizing the logistic-supplying phase. In this regard, a GIS-based model was developed and applied to the Emilia-Romagna region to consider the existing networks of WWTPs and biogas systems to valorize sewage sludge for bioenergy production and minimizing environmental impact. The results of the GIS analyses allowed to localize the highest productive territorial areas and highlighted where sewage sludges are abundantly located and could be better exploited within agricultural biogas plants. Finally, the achieved results could help plan suitable policy interventions that are centered on biomass supply and outputs diversification, governance, and social participation, since the regulatory framework could play a crucial role in planning the reuse of these wastes for developing a more sustainable biomethane sector in line with the green economy goals.
Ag Nanowires/C as a Selective and Efficient Catalyst for CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Zeng Li , Shi Jun , Chen Hanxin , Lin Chong
Published: May 2021

The development of a selective and efficient catalyst for CO2 electroreduction is a great challenge in CO2 storage and conversion research. Silver metal is an attractive alternative due to its enhanced catalytic performance of CO2 electroreduction to CO. Here, we prepared Ag nanowires anchored on carbon support as an excellent electrocatalyst with remarkably high selectivity for the CO2 reduction to CO. The CO Faradic efficiency was approximately 100%. The enhanced catalytic performances may be ascribed to dense active sites exposed on the Ag nanowires’ high specific surface area, by the uniform dispersion of Ag nanowires on the carbon support. Our research demonstrates that Ag nanowires supported on carbon have potential as promising catalysts in CO2 electroreduction.
A Review of Optimization of Microgrid Operation
Authors: Gao Kaiye , Wang Tianshi , Han Chenjing , Xie Jinhao , Ma Ye , Peng Rui
Published: May 2021

Clean and renewable energy is developing to realize the sustainable utilization of energy and the harmonious development of the economy and society. Microgrids are a key technique for applying clean and renewable energy. The operation optimization of microgrids has become an important research field. This paper reviews the developments in the operation optimization of microgrids. We first summarize the system structure and provide a typical system structure, which includes an energy generation system, an energy distribution system, an energy storage system and energy end users. Then, we summarize the optimization framework for microgrid operation, which contains the optimization objective, decision variables and constraints. Next, we systematically review the optimization algorithms for microgrid operations, of which genetic algorithms and simulated annealing algorithms are the most commonly used. Lastly, a literature bibliometric analysis is provided; the results show that the operation optimization of microgrids has received increasing attention in recent years, and developing countries have shown more interest in this field than developed countries have. Finally, we highlight future research challenges for the optimization of the operation of microgrids.
Increasing Biogas Yield from Fodder by Microbial Stimulation of Propionic Acid Synthesis in Grass Silages
Authors: Zielińska Krystyna , Fabiszewska Agata , Piasecka-Jóźwiak Katarzyna , Choińska Renata
Published: May 2021

A new direction in the use of lactic acid bacteria inoculants is their application for renewable raw materials ensiling for biogas production. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the possibility of stimulating the synthesis of propionic acid in the process of co-fermentation of selected strains of Lactobacillus buchneri and L. diolivorans as well as L. buchneri and Pediococcus acidilactici. L. buchneri KKP 2047p and P. acidilactici KKP 2065p were characterized by the special capabilities for both synthesis and metabolism of 1,2-propanediol. L. diolivorans KKP 2057p stands out for the ability to metabolize 1,2-propanediol to propionic acid. As a result of the co-fermentation a concentration of propionic acid was obtained at least 1.5 times higher in the final stage of culture in comparison to cultivating individual species of bacteria separately. The results of in vitro experiments were applied in agricultural practice, by application of two lactic acid bacteria inoculants in ensiling of grass silage and improving its suitability for biogas production. Grass silages made with the addition of the inoculant were characterized by the content of 1,2-propanediol, 1-propanol and propionic acid ensured extension of the aerobic stability from 4 to 7 days in comparison to untreated silages. It was found that the use of both inoculants resulted in an approximately 10–30% increase in biogas yield from this raw material.
Impedance Reshaping Control Strategy for Improving Resonance Suppression Performance of a Series-Compensated Grid-Connected System
Authors: Wang Haining , Chen Yandong , Wu Wenhua , Liao Shuhan , Wang Zili , Li Gaoxiang , Xie Zhiwei , Guo Jian
Published: May 2021

In the series-compensated grid-connected system (SCGCS), there is an impedance interaction between the inverter impedance and the grid impedance that is prone to cause resonance in the SCGCS. In this paper, firstly, considering the effects of the phase-locked loop (PLL), current-loop, and frequency coupling, the broadband impedance model of the SCGCS is established. The stability of the SCGCS is analyzed by the impedance-based Nyquist stability criterion. It is found from the stability analysis that the impedance interaction between the inverter impedance and the grid impedance is the leading cause of the resonance. An impedance reshaping based resonance suppression method is proposed to suppress the resonance. The phase characteristics of the inverter equivalent output impedance are reshaped from the perspective of impedance. The phase margin at the intersection frequency of the inverter impedance and the grid impedance is improved. The proposed resonance suppression approach mainly consists of reshaping the current loop impedance and the novel phase-locked loop impedance. Finally, simulations and experiments are used to verify the feasibility of the resonance analysis and the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Temperature Sensitivity of CO2 and CH4 Fluxes from Coarse Woody Debris in Northern Boreal Forests
Authors: Mukhortova Liudmila , Pashenova Natalia , Meteleva Maria , Krivobokov Leonid , Guggenberger Georg
Published: May 2021

Carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) are recognized as the main greenhouse gases causing climate warming. In forest ecosystems, the death of trees leads to the formation of coarse woody debris (CWD) that is one of the sources of greenhouse gas emissions due to wood decomposition. We quantified the CO2 and CH4 fluxes from CWD of larch (Larix gmelinii (Rupr.)) and birch (Betula tortuosa Ledeb.) collected in the northern boreal forests of Central Siberia. The CWD samples were incubated at +5, +15 and +25 °C. The CO2 and CH4 fluxes showed strong correlations with temperature, moisture, decomposition stage and the type of wood’s rot. The temperature coefficient Q10 indicated higher temperature sensitivity of CO2 flux within the temperature interval from +5 to +15 °C than from +15 to +25 °C. Methane flux had higher temperature sensitivity within the interval from +15 to +25 °C. It was found that, in boreal forests, CWD of early decay stage can serve as a source of methane to the atmosphere when air temperatures increased above +15 °C. Strong positive correlation between CH4 production and CO2 emission indicated a biological source and supported findings on aerobic origin of the main process contributing to the CH4 flux from decomposing CWD.
Asynchrony and Time-Lag between Primary and Secondary Growth of Norway Spruce Growing in Different Elevations
Authors: Nezval Ondřej , Krejza Jan , Bellan Michal , Světlík Jan
Published: May 2021

Norway spruce is one of the most economically important coniferous species in Europe, but it has faced high mortality rates in the last few decades due to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Primary and secondary growth development may be affected by these non-optimal conditions. In this study, we aimed to analyze the timing, possible asynchrony and time-lag between the growth processes of Norway spruce. We used a novel methodological approach of primary (based on phenocamera picture evaluation) and secondary (dendrometers) growth detection. The combination of these novel approaches allowed us to compare these growth process in high temporal resolution. Measurements were performed in two experimental plots with contrasting climatic conditions (middle and higher elevations) in the years 2016–2019, during the presence of extreme climatic conditions. We demonstrated a significant elongation of the growing season, with a more pronounced effect at higher elevation. Compared to the long-term mean, we observed an additional 50 days with a temperature above 15 °C at the higher elevation plot. There were no found patterns in the time-shift of both growth processes between plots. On the other hand we observed asynchrony of radial growth and meristems growth. Radial growth began earlier than the phenology of apical meristems growth. The onset, end and duration of meristem growth differed between studied plots and years as well. The onset of radial growth did not follow the gradient of microclimatic parameters; however, the differences in climatic conditions between plots did cause a shift in the onset of meristem growth. The process of the radial growth was twice as long as for apical meristem development. On average, radial growth requires 71 days more than meristem phenology to reach full process completion. Our data confirmed that these growth processes are strongly affected by external weather conditions and the duration of the growing season. More advanced and detailed monitoring of these processes can provide more accurate data of the health status of trees in the forest.
Heat Enhancement Effectiveness Using Multiple Twisted Tape in Rectangular Channels
Authors: Saghir M. Ziad , Bayomy Ayman , Rahman Md Abdur
Published: May 2021

Heat enhancement and heat removal have been the subject of considerable research in the energy system field. Flow-through channels and pipes have received much attention from engineers involved in heat exchanger design and construction. The use of insert tape is one of many ways to mix fluids, even in a laminar flow regime. The present study focused on the use of different twisted tapes with different pitch-to-pitch distances and lengths to determine the optimum design for the best possible performance energy coefficient. The results revealed that twisted tape of one revolution represented the optimal design configuration and provided the largest Nusselt number. The length of the tape played a major role in the pressure drop. The results revealed that the insertion of a shorter twisted tape can create mixing while minimizing the changes in the pressure drop. In particular, the best performance evaluation criterion is found for a short tape located towards the exit of the channel. The highest performance energy coefficient was obtained for the half-twisted tape for a Reynolds number varying between 200 and 600.
Effect of Soy Protein Isolate on Textural Properties, Cooking Properties and Flavor of Whole-Grain Flat Rice Noodles
Authors: Cao Zhongfu , Liu Yang , Zhu Hong , Li Yisi , Xiao Qian , Yi Cuiping
Published: May 2021

To investigate the effect of soy protein isolate on the quality of whole-grain flat rice noodles, the texture as well as the cooking properties and flavor of flat rice noodles, whole-grain flat rice noodles and whole-grain flat rice noodles with soy protein isolate were investigated. Among the three tested rice noodles, whole-grain flat rice noodles with soy protein isolate showed the highest cohesiveness, adhesiveness, resilience, and springiness. Compared to the flat rice noodles and whole-grain flat rice noodles, whole-grain flat rice noodles with soy protein isolate increased their moisture content and water absorption, whereas the opposite trend was observed for their cooking loss. The electronic nose analysis showed stronger response values at W5S, W1W, and W2W. Solid phase micro extraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry results showed that aldehydes are the main volatile compounds in whole-grain flat rice noodles and whole-grain flat rice noodles with soy protein isolate. Moreover, seven more volatile compounds were detected in whole-grain flat rice noodles with soy protein isolate compared to flat rice noodles and whole-grain flat rice noodles. The whole-grain flat noodles with the addition of SPI are more sensory acceptable. Thus, soy protein isolate, as a natural and safe additive, could be used to improve the quality and enrich the flavor of whole-grain flat rice noodles.
Optimum DNA Extraction Methods for Edible Bird’s Nest Identification Using Simple Additive Weighting Technique
Authors: Quek Meei Chien , Chin Nyuk Ling , Tan Sheau Wei
Published: May 2021

A simple additive weighting (SAW) technique was used to determine and compare the overall performance of five DNA extraction methods from conventional (SDS method) to commercial kits (Qiagen, Wizard, and NucleoSpin) for identifying origins of edible bird’s nest (EBN) using end-point polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A hybrid method (SDS/Qiagen) which has been developed by combining the conventional SDS method with commercialised Qiagen was determined as the most suitable in terms of speed and cost-effectiveness. The determination of optimum extraction method was by the performances on efficiency and feasibility, extracted DNA concentration, purity, PCR amplifiability, handling time and safety of reagents used. The hybrid SDS/Qiagen method is less costly compared to the commercial kits and offered a more rapid alternative to the conventional SDS method with significant improvement in the yield, purity and PCR amplifiability. The developed hybrid SDS/Qiagen method provides a more practical alternative over the lengthy process using conventional method and expensive process using commercial kits. Using the simple additive weighting (SAW) technique and analysis, the Qiagen method is considered the most efficient and feasible method without consideration of cost as it yielded the purest extracted DNA and achieved the highest PCR amplifiability with the shortest turnaround time.
Effects of Adding Legume Flours on the Rheological and Breadmaking Properties of Dough
Authors: Bojňanská Tatiana , Musilová Janette , Vollmannová Alena
Published: May 2021

The influence of the addition of four legume flours, chickpea, broad bean, common bean and red lentil (in amounts of 5%, 10% and 15% to a wheat-rye composite flour (50:50:0-control flour), in ratios of 50:45:5; 50:40:10; 50:35:15) was studied by analyzing the rheological properties of dough in order to further exploit the functionality of legume flours in bakery products. The rheological properties of dough were monitored using a Mixolab 2. A Rheofermentometer F4 was used to check the dough fermentation, and a Volscan was used for evaluating the baking trials. The addition of different legume flours in the mixtures resulted in different viscoelastic properties of the dough. The results showed a weakening of the protein network depending on the amount of legume flour added and on the specific legume flour. On the contrary, all samples with a higher proportion of legume flour showed an increased resistance to starch retrogradation. All flours had the ability to produce a sufficient volume of fermenting gases, with the exception of flours with a higher addition of broad bean flour, and the baking test confirmed a lower bread volume for bread with this addition. The results of the sensory evaluation indicated that legume flour additions resulted in breads with an acceptable sensory quality, in the case of additions of 5% at the same level as the bread controls, or even better. The aromas and flavors of the added non-cereal ingredients improved the sensory profile of wheat-rye bread. Breads with additions of chickpea, common bean and broad bean had a considerable proportion of darker colors in comparison to the control bread and bread with red lentil.
Effect of Pre-Heating Prior to Low Temperature 0.1 µm-Microfiltration of Milk on Casein–Whey Protein Fractionation
Authors: Schiffer Simon , Adekunle Bello Teslim , Matyssek Andreas , Hartinger Martin , Kulozik Ulrich
Published: May 2021

During skim milk microfiltration (nominal pore size of 0.1 µm) at 10 °C, the whey protein purity in the permeate is reduced by an enhanced serum casein permeation, primarily of β-casein. To decrease casein permeation, the possibility of a pre-heating step under pasteurization conditions before the filtration step was investigated, so as to shift the equilibrium from soluble serum casein monomers to impermeable micellar casein. Immediately after the pre-heating step, low temperature microfiltration at 10 °C was conducted before the casein monomers could diffuse into the serum. The hypothesis was that the dissociation of β-casein into the serum as a result of a decreasing temperature takes more time than the duration of the microfiltration process. It was found that pre-heating reduced the β-casein permeation during microfiltration without significantly affecting the flux and whey protein permeation, compared with a microfiltration at 10 °C without the pre-heating step. Furthermore, the addition of calcium (5 and 10 mM) not only reduced the casein permeation and thus increased the permeate purity, defined as a high whey protein-to-casein (g L−1/g L−1) ratio, but also decreased the filtration performance, possibly due to the structural alteration of the deposited casein micelle layer, rendering the deposit more compact and more retentive. Therefore, the possible combination of the addition of calcium and pre-heating prior to microfiltration was also investigated in order to evidence the potential increase of whey protein (WP) purity in the permeate in the case of Ca2+ addition prior to microfiltration. This study shows that pre-heating very close to low temperature microfiltration results in an increased purity of the whey protein fraction obtained in the permeate.
The Effects of Inertial Forces on the Dynamics of Disk Galaxies
Authors: Gomel Roy , Zimmerman Tomer
Published: May 2021

When dealing with galactic dynamics, or more specifically, with galactic rotation curves, one basic assumption is always taken: the frame of reference relative to which the rotational velocities are given is assumed to be inertial. In other words, fictitious forces are assumed to vanish relative to the observational frame of a given galaxy. It might be interesting, however, to explore the outcomes of dropping that assumption; that is, to search for signatures of non-inertial behavior in the observed data. In this work, we show that the very discrepancy in galaxy rotation curves could be attributed to non-inertial effects. We derive a model for spiral galaxies that takes into account the possible influence of fictitious forces and find that the additional terms in the new model, due to fictitious forces, closely resemble dark halo profiles. Following this result, we apply the new model to a wide sample of galaxies, spanning a large range of luminosities and radii. It turns out that the new model accurately reproduces the structures of the rotation curves and provides very good fittings to the data.
Alternative Strategies for Multi-Stress Tolerance and Yield Improvement in Millets
Authors: Numan Muhammad , Serba Desalegn D. , Ligaba-Osena Ayalew
Published: May 2021

Millets are important cereal crops cultivated in arid and semiarid regions of the world, particularly Africa and southeast Asia. Climate change has triggered multiple abiotic stresses in plants that are the main causes of crop loss worldwide, reducing average yield for most crops by more than 50%. Although millets are tolerant to most abiotic stresses including drought and high temperatures, further improvement is needed to make them more resilient to unprecedented effects of climate change and associated environmental stresses. Incorporation of stress tolerance traits in millets will improve their productivity in marginal environments and will help in overcoming future food shortage due to climate change. Recently, approaches such as application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) have been used to improve growth and development, as well as stress tolerance of crops. Moreover, with the advance of next-generation sequencing technology, genome editing, using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR/Cas9) system are increasingly used to develop stress tolerant varieties in different crops. In this paper, the innate ability of millets to tolerate abiotic stresses and alternative approaches to boost stress resistance were thoroughly reviewed. Moreover, several stress-resistant genes were identified in related monocots such as rice (Oryza sativa), wheat (Triticum aestivum), and maize (Zea mays), and other related species for which orthologs in millets could be manipulated by CRISPR/Cas9 and related genome-editing techniques to improve stress resilience and productivity. These cutting-edge alternative strategies are expected to bring this group of orphan crops at the forefront of scientific research for their potential contribution to global food security.
LGBTQI+ Healthcare (in)Equalities in Portugal: What Can We Learn from Asexuality?
Authors: Alcaire Rita
Published: May 2021

The main purpose of this article is to analyse how healthcare providers in Portugal perceive asexuality. To do so, the author makes use of qualitative data from both the CILIA LGBTQI+ Lives project and The Asexual Revolution doctoral research on asexuality in Portugal, namely, a focus group conducted with healthcare providers, drawing from their assessment of interview excerpts with people identifying as asexual. The data were explored according to thematic analysis and revealed three major tendencies: (1) old tropes at the doctor’s office; (2) narratives of willingness to learn about the subject; and (3) constructive and encouraging views of asexuality. From this analysis, valuable lessons can be drawn concerning the respect for gender and sexual diversity. The author argues that both formal and informal learning play an important role in building cultural competence among healthcare providers. This could be achieved both by introducing sexual and gender diversity in curricula in HE and through media exposure on these subjects. Overall, it will lead to building knowledge and empathy about marginalised groups, and will help fight inequalities of LGBTQI+ people in healthcare. As such, LGTBQI+ activism that puts the topics of asexuality and LGBTQI+ in the media agenda, is a powerful strategy. Hence, because healthcare providers show willingness to learn, the media becomes a source for learning about asexual and LGTBQI+ experiences, which they can incorporate in their medical practice.
Higher 90-Day Mortality after Surgery for Hip Fractures in Patients with COVID-19: A Case–Control Study from a Single Center in Italy
Authors: Grassi Alberto , Andriolo Luca , Golinelli Davide , Tedesco Dario , Rosa Simona , Gramegna Pasquale , Ciaffi Jacopo , Meliconi Riccardo , Landini Maria Paola , Filardo Giuseppe , Fantini Maria Pia , Zaffagnini Stefano
Published: May 2021

The mortality of hip fracture (HF) patients is increased by concomitant COVID-19; however, evidence is limited to only short follow-up. A retrospective matched case–control study was designed with the aim to report the 90-day mortality and determine the hazard ratio (HR) of concomitant HF and COVID-19 infection. Cases were patients hospitalized for HF and diagnosed with COVID-19. Controls were patients hospitalized for HF not meeting the criteria for COVID-19 diagnosis and were individually matched with each case through a case–control (1:3) matching algorithm. A total of 89 HF patients were treated during the study period, and 14 of them were diagnosed as COVID-19 positive (overall 15.7%). Patients’ demographic, clinical, and surgical characteristics were similar between case and control groups. At 90 days after surgery, 5 deaths were registered among the 14 COVID-19 cases (35.7%) and 4 among the 42 HF controls (9.5%). COVID-19-positive cases had a higher risk of mortality at 30 days (HR = 4.51; p = 0.0490) and 90 days (HR = 4.50; p = 0.025) with respect to controls. Patients with concomitant HF and COVID-19 exhibit high perioperative mortality, which reaches a plateau of nearly 30–35% after 30 to 45 days and is stable up to 90 days. The mortality risk is more than four-fold higher in patients with COVID-19.
Promoting Fruit and Vegetable Intake in Parents: A Cluster Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Sun Yuying , Fung Samantha S. W. , Man Patrick K. W. , Wan Alice N. T. , Stewart Sunita , Lam Tai Hing , Ho Sai Yin
Published: May 2021

We conducted a cluster randomised controlled trial of parents in 56 primary schools and community service centres (clusters) to evaluate the effectiveness of a single-session workshop on promoting more fruit and vegetable (FV) intake. A total of 803 parents were randomised to the FV intervention arm (16 clusters, n = 197), the more appreciation control arm (19 clusters, n = 270), or the less criticism control arm (21 clusters, n = 336). The FV intake of the FV arm was compared with that of the combined more appreciation or less criticism (MALC) arm. Both arms received a 2 h workshop: (i) the FV arm on increasing FV consumption and related food literacy; (ii) the MALC arm on increasing appreciation or reducing criticism of children. Primary outcomes were FV consumption per day in the past week assessed at baseline, 2-weeks, and 6-weeks. Secondary outcomes were behavioural determinants proposed by the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA), including outcome expectancies, self-efficacy, intention, and planning behaviour. The FV arm had a greater increase in FV consumption than the MALC arm, with large effect sizes (d: 0.97–1.08) and improvements in behavioural determinants with small effect sizes at all time points (d: 0.19–0.43). Our study was the first population-based randomised controlled trial to show that a brief, single 2 h HAPA-based workshop was effective in promoting fruit and vegetable intake in parents.
Of Pandemics and Zombies: The Influence of Prior Concepts on COVID-19 Pandemic-Related Behaviors
Authors: Marsh Jessecae K. , Ungson Nick D. , Packer Dominic J.
Published: May 2021

We use a concepts and categories research perspective to explore how prior conceptual knowledge influences thinking about a novel disease, namely COVID-19. We collected measures of how similar people thought COVID-19 was to several existing concepts that may have served as other possible comparison points for the pandemic. We also collected participants’ self-reported engagement in pandemic-related behaviors. We found that thinking the COVID-19 pandemic was similar to other serious disease outbreaks predicted greater social distancing and mask-wearing, whereas likening COVID-19 to the seasonal flu predicted engaging in significantly fewer of these behaviors. Thinking of COVID-19 as similar to zombie apocalypse scenarios or moments of major societal upheaval predicted stocking-up behaviors, but not disease mitigation behaviors. These early category comparisons influenced behaviors over a six-month span of longitudinal data collection. Our findings suggest that early conceptual comparisons track with emergent disease categories over time and influence the behaviors people engage in related to the disease. Our research illustrates how early concept formation influences behaviors over time, and suggests ways for public health experts to communicate with the public about emergent diseases.
The Male Experience of Suicide Attempts and Recovery: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Richardson Cara , Dickson Adele , Robb Kathryn A. , O’Connor Rory C.
Published: May 2021

Suicidal behaviour is a complex phenomenon—its aetiology spans biological, psychological, environmental, social and cultural facets. Men’s deaths by suicide outnumber women in every country in the world. This study explored the male experience of suicide attempts and recovery as well as factors which may be protective for men. Men (n = 12) participated in semi-structured face-to-face interviews which were subjected to Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Four master themes were identified: (1) “characteristics of attempt/volitional factors”, (2) “dealing with suicidal thoughts and negative emotions”, (3) “aftermath” and (4) “protective factors”. The theoretical and clinical implications of this study are discussed, including help seeking, emotional expression, the long-term impact of suicide attempt as well as the applied contribution to established theories.
Mentoring for Improving the Self-Esteem, Resilience, and Hope of Unaccompanied Migrant Youth in the Barcelona Metropolitan Area
Authors: Alarcón Xavier , Bobowik Magdalena , Prieto-Flores Òscar
Published: May 2021

In the last few years, the number of unaccompanied youths arriving in Europe has increased steadily. During their settlement in host countries, they are exposed to a great variety of vulnerabilities, which have an impact on their mental health. This research examines the effects of participation in a mentoring programme on the psychological and educational outcomes among unaccompanied migrant youths who live in the Barcelona metropolitan area. Data in this mixed-methods study were obtained from 44 surveys with mentored (treatment group) and non-mentored (control group) male youths who had recently turned 18, as well as through thirty semi-structured interviews with mentored youths, their adult mentors, and non-mentored youths. Our findings indicated that participation in the mentoring programme improved the mentored youths’ self-esteem, resilience, and hope, as well as their desired or expected educational outcomes in this new context. We conclude that well-targeted and problem-specific mentoring programmes have positive and marked effects on unaccompanied migrant youths’ mental health. The social and political implications of these outcomes are also discussed, providing information on how interventions can offer effective networks of support for the settlement and social inclusion of unaccompanied migrant youths.
Depressive Symptoms among Chinese Informal Employees in the Digital Era
Authors: Cai Yang , Kong Weiwei , Lian Yongsheng , Jin Xiangxin
Published: May 2021

The mental health status of informal employees is rarely studied in China. Nowadays, new economic forms such as gig economy and platform economy are emerging with the rapid development of information and communication technology, which has brought great changes to the labor market, especially to the informal employment field. Thus, it is of great significance to investigate the depressive symptoms among informal employees in the digital era. Based on the cross-sectional data of CFPS (China Family Panel Studies, 2018), this study takes a quantitative analysis framework to explore and analyze the association between informal employment and depressive symptoms in the Chinese labor market. After screening, a data set of 8893 employees (60.5% male and 39.5% female) was established. Several statistical methods, including the Mann–Whitney test and probit regression model, were used in the sample data analysis. The results show that the prevalence of depressive symptoms among informal employees is significantly higher than that among formal employees. Depressive symptoms are highly related to informal work and other factors, such as education, physical health, household income, etc. The impact of Internet use on informal employees’ depressive symptoms is not significant. The mental health inequality between formal and informal employees still exists in the digital era, and corresponding labor market regulations and social policies should be perfected to address this issue.
Sex Differences in the Oxygenation of the Left and Right Prefrontal Cortex during Moderate-Intensity Exercise
Authors: Inagaki Yuta , Sato Reo , Uchiyama Takashi , Kojima Sho , Morishita Shinichiro , Qin Weixiang , Tsubaki Atsuhiro
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Differences in cognitive performance with exercise between men and women have previously been reported. In this study, we evaluated between-sex differences in oxygenation of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) with moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (AE), which could contribute to noted differences in cognitive function. Method: The subjects were ten men (age, 21.5 ± 0.5 years; height, 171.7 ± 4.8 cm; weight, 65.6 ± 5.6 kg) and ten women (age, 21.4 ± 0.5 years; height, 157.6 ± 4.9 cm; weight, 51.3 ± 6.5 kg). They completed our AE protocol, consisting of a 30-min leg-ergometer cycling at an intensity of 50% peak oxygen uptake, with an initial 4-min rest period for baseline measurement. Measures of the dynamics of cerebral oxygenation included: oxygenated hemoglobin (O2Hb) in the left and right PFC (LR-PFC) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (HHb). The 30-min exercise period was subdivided into six 5-min phases, with the average and peak values determined in each phase. Results: A significant interaction was found between LR-PFC HHb and sex (p < 0.001), with significantly higher values in men than in women in phases 3–6 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: We report a significant sex effect of HHb in the LR-PFC.
Validation of an Online Version of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) for Alcohol Screening in Spanish University Students
Authors: Ballester Laura , Alayo Itxaso , Vilagut Gemma , Almenara José , Cebrià Ana , Echeburúa Enrique , Gabilondo Andrea , Gili Margalida , Lagares Carolina , Piqueras José , Roca Miquel , Soto-Sanz Victoria , Blasco Maria , Castellví Pere , G. Forero Carlos , Mortier Philippe , Alonso Jordi ,   on behalf of the UNIVERSAL Study Group
Published: May 2021

Online alcohol screening may be helpful in preventing alcohol use disorders. We assessed psychometric properties of an online version of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) among Spanish university students. We used a longitudinal online survey (the UNIVERSAL project) of first-year students (18–24 years old) in five universities, including the AUDIT, as part of the WHO World Mental Health International College Student (WMH-ICS) initiative. A reappraisal interview was carried out with the Timeline Followback (TLFB) for alcohol consumption categories and the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) for alcohol use disorder. Reliability, construct validity and diagnostic accuracy were assessed. Results: 287 students (75% women) completed the MINI, of whom 242 also completed the TLFB. AUDIT’s Cronbach’s alpha was 0.82. The confirmatory factor analysis for the one-factor solution of the AUDIT showed a good fit to the data. Significant AUDIT score differences were observed by TLFB categories and by MINI disorders. Areas under the curve (AUC) were very large for dependence (AUC = 0.96) and adequate for consumption categories (AUC > 0.7). AUDIT cut-off points of 6/8 (women/men) for moderate-risk drinking and 13 for alcohol dependence showed sensitivity/specificity of 76.2%/78.9% and 56%/97.5%, respectively. The online version of the AUDIT is useful for detecting alcohol consumption categories and alcohol dependence in Spanish university students.
Sustainable Service-Learning in Physical Education Teacher Education: Examining Postural Control to Promote ASD Children’s Well-Being
Authors: Valverde-Esteve Teresa , Salvador-Garcia Celina , Gil-Gómez Jesús , Maravé-Vivas María
Published: May 2021

As classrooms become more and more diverse, it is imperative to provide physical education teacher education (PETE) students with opportunities to develop competencies that promote quality education for all students. In this study, PETE students applied a physical education service-learning (SL) program aimed at enhancing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) children’s motor domain and general well-being—objectives that are connected to the third focus of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Traditionally, research on SL has focused on students’ outcomes, and there is a call to examine SL’s effects on service receivers, which is the gap this paper aspires to fill. The aim of this study was to measure the postural control of children with ASD who were involved in a 6-month SL program in comparison to ASD peers in a control group. A quasi-experimental design was used in which a total of 29 children with ASD participated. The results of the experimental group showed a significant improvement in the vestibular pathways, an improvement trend in the somatosensorial and visual pathways and improvements in the dynamic tests. This study provides valuable feedback about how SL programs can benefit ASD children to improve their postural control, thus contributing to the third SDG concerned with well-being promotion.
Transmission Dynamics, Heterogeneity and Controllability of SARS-CoV-2: A Rural–Urban Comparison
Authors: Li Yuying , Hu Taojun , Gai Xin , Zhang Yunjun , Zhou Xiaohua
Published: May 2021

Few studies have examined the transmission dynamics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in rural areas and clarified rural–urban differences. Moreover, the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) relative to vaccination in rural areas is uncertain. We addressed this knowledge gap through using an improved statistical stochastic method based on the Galton–Watson branching process, considering both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases. Data included 1136 SARS-2-CoV infections of the rural outbreak in Hebei, China, and 135 infections of the urban outbreak in Tianjin, China. We reconstructed SARS-CoV-2 transmission chains and analyzed the effectiveness of vaccination and NPIs by simulation studies. The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 showed strong heterogeneity in urban and rural areas, with the dispersion parameters k = 0.14 and 0.35, respectively (k < 1 indicating strong heterogeneity). Although age group and contact-type distributions significantly differed between urban and rural areas, the average reproductive number (R) and k did not. Further, simulation results based on pre-control parameters (R = 0.81, k = 0.27) showed that in the vaccination scenario (80% efficacy and 55% coverage), the cumulative secondary infections will be reduced by more than half; however, NPIs are more effective than vaccinating 65% of the population. These findings could inform government policies regarding vaccination and NPIs in rural and urban areas.