bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Power Quality Enhancement in Electric Arc Furnace Using Matrix Converter and Static VAR Compensator
Authors: Jebaraj Bharath Singh , Bennet Jaison , Kannadasan Raju , Alsharif Mohammed H. , Kim Mun-Kyeom , Aly Ayman A. , Ahmed Mohamed H.
Published: May 2021

In recent years, non-linear loads on the distribution side are increasing rapidly. Notably, the electric arc furnace (EAF) is the most used non-linear load due to its diverse applications for industrial needs. However, EAF has some disadvantages like uneven distribution of heat inside the furnace, release of unwanted gases, increased level of harmonics, and Flickers in voltages. Specifically, power quality concerns are more and need comprehensive solutions. In this work, a matrix converter (MC) along with static VAR compensator (SVC) is proposed, and the hybrid exponential-hyperbolic furnace model is adapted in MATLAB platform. Simulations are carried out for different cases and the observed results are compared with existing methodologies. It was perceived that the power quality parameters such as peak current and voltages, total harmonic distortions (THDs), voltage flickers, and power factors are enhanced compared with existing methodologies. Precisely, the THD of current and voltage attains a prime rate of about 2.85% and 29.54%, respectively. Moreover, the proposed model’s voltage flicker and power factor offer a grander scale of about 1.26% and 0.9975, respectively. The enhanced scheme provides more significant advantages to the large-scale steel manufacturing plant with EAF.
Planar-Equirectangular Image Stitching
Authors: Syawaludin Muhammad-Firdaus , Kim Seungwon , Hwang Jae-In
Published: May 2021

The 360° cameras have served as a convenient tool for people to record their special moments or everyday lives. The supported panoramic view allowed for an immersive experience with a virtual reality (VR) headset, thus adding viewer enjoyment. Nevertheless, they cannot deliver the best angular resolution images that a perspective camera may support. We put forward a solution by placing the perspective camera planar image onto the pertinent 360° camera equirectangular image region of interest (ROI) through planar-equirectangular image stitching. The proposed method includes (1) tangent image-based stitching pipeline to solve the equirectangular image spherical distortion, (2) feature matching scheme to increase correct feature match count, (3) ROI detection to find the relevant ROI on the equirectangular image, and (4) human visual system (HVS)-based image alignment to tackle the parallax error. The qualitative and quantitative experiments showed improvement of the proposed planar-equirectangular image stitching over existing approaches on a collected dataset: (1) less distortion on the stitching result, (2) 29.0% increased on correct matches, (3) 5.72° ROI position error from the ground truth and (4) lower aggregated alignment-distortion error over existing alignment approaches. We discuss possible improvement points and future research directions.
The Power of Electricity: How Effective Is It in Promoting Sustainable Development in Rural Off-Grid Islands in the Philippines?
Authors: Lozano Lorafe , Taboada Evelyn B.
Published: May 2021

Electrification plays a crucial role in the advancement of rural communities but establishing its impact to the communities’ sustainable development remains a challenge. This paper presents a pragmatic framework for assessing how electrification affects sustainable development at the grassroots level with eight indicators in the economic, technical, social, and environmental dimensions highlighted. An exploratory factor analysis approach is applied to determine how these dimensions contribute to the community’s overall sustainable development. The framework is applied in two islands in the Philippines of less than 500 households and varying electrification levels. Results indicate that Gilutongan Island, which has less than 24-h electricity access rarely find productive uses of electricity and still make use of conventional fuels for lighting. Meanwhile, Cobrador Island, which has 24-h access see improvements in almost all aspects, although they are slightly burdened by the unaffordability of tariffs. This means that islands with limited hours for electricity access rarely experience positive impacts to their socioeconomic development while the opposite is true for islands with longer access. The framework can be a useful tool for decision- and policy-makers to assess electrification in rural off-grid communities and to streamline efforts in helping these communities achieve sustainable development.
A VSG-Based Coordinated DC Voltage Control for VSC-HVDC to Participate in Frequency Regulation
Authors: Zheng Tianwen , Chen Laijun , Guo Yan , Wei Wei , Zhou Bo , Sun Xinwei
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a coordinated DC voltage control strategy is proposed based on the VSG (virtual synchronous generator) method for the VSC-HVDC transmission system to participate in the frequency regulation of the connected weak grid. The voltage and power control capability of the VSC-HVDC is explored to attenuate the rate of change of frequency and to diminish the deviation of frequency. This is realized by the coordinated control of DC voltages at both the sending and the receiving ends with the VSG method. A small-signal model is established to investigate the dynamics of the control system. A tuning method for the selection of control parameters is also discussed in detail. The validity and superiority of the proposed control strategy are tested in the scenarios of sudden load changes and short circuit faults.
Quality and Reliability-Exploitation Modeling of Power Supply Systems
Authors: Stawowy Marek , Rosiński Adam , Siergiejczyk Mirosław , Perlicki Krzysztof
Published: May 2021

This article describes the issues related to the analysis of the reliability-exploitation of power supply systems in transport telematics devices (PSSs in TTDs). This paper characterizes solutions, which are applied in supply systems, and describes a PSS in a TTD from a main source and a standby one. This enables determining the dependencies denoting the probabilities of the system staying in full ability state, safety threat state, and safety unreliability state. A quality analysis of the PSS in TTD was conducted, and the indicator value of the supply continuity quality was evaluated. This indicator allows the demonstration of continuity quality of power supply (CQoPS) dependency on many quality dimensions, not just reliability. An example demonstrates the calculation of CQoPS factor for both the main and the standby power supply, employing three observations, each influencing the quality. The presented considerations in the field of quality and reliability-exploitation modeling of a PSS can be applied as well in other public utility facilities (including those classified as critical infrastructure). The character of functions performed by critical infrastructure facilities demands an operating continuity of these systems at an appropriate level. The co-first authors of the article once again address the issue of determining CQoPS factor, this time on the basis of modeling using mathematical evidence. TTD is an example in this article, because the presented methods can be used in any kind of system, especially in the power source of critical systems.
Influence of Cooking Methods on Onion Phenolic Compounds Bioaccessibility
Authors: Cattivelli Alice , Conte Angela , Martini Serena , Tagliazucchi Davide
Published: May 2021

The impact of domestic cooking (baking, boiling, frying and grilling) and in vitro digestion on the stability and release of phenolic compounds from yellow-skinned (YSO) and red-skinned onions (RSO) have been evaluated. The mass spectrometry identification pointed out flavonols as the most representative phenolic class, led by quercetin-derivatives. RSO contained almost the double amount of phenolic compounds respect to YSO (50.12 and 27.42 mg/100 g, respectively). Baking, grilling and primarily frying resulted in an increased amount of total phenolic compounds, especially quercetin-derivatives, in both the onion varieties. Some treatments promoted the degradation of quercetin-3-O-hexoside-4′-O-hexoside, the main compound present in both the onion varieties, leading to the occurrence of quercetin-4′-O-hexoside and protocatechuic acid-4-O-hexoside. After in vitro digestion, the bioaccessibility index for total phenolic compounds ranged between 42.6% and 65.5% in grilled and baked YSO, respectively, and between 39.8% and 80.2% in boiled and baked RSO, respectively. Baking contributed to the highest amount of bioaccessible phenolic compounds for both the onion varieties after in vitro digestion. An in-depth design of the cooking process may be of paramount importance in modulating the gastro-intestinal release of onion phenolic compounds.
Effects of Sodium Chloride on the Physical and Oxidative Stability of Filled Hydrogel Particles Fabricated with Phase Separation Behavior
Authors: Cao Chuanai , Li Xin , Yin Yongchao , Kong Baohua , Sun Fangda , Liu Qian
Published: May 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of sodium chloride (NaCl) concentration (0–500 mM) on the physical and oxidative stabilities of filled hydrogel that were stabilized using heat-denatured whey protein concentrate and high methoxy pectin. Our results showed that with an increase in NaCl concentration, the particle sizes, zeta-potentials, and interfacial layer thickness of filled hydrogels significantly increased and the lightness and whiteness gradually decreased (p < 0.05). Moreover, rheological characterization revealed that the apparent viscosity and viscoelastic behavior gradually decreased at higher NaCl concentration, which was mainly ascribed to the influence of NaCl on the electrostatic repulsion between droplets, thereby adversely impacting the physical stability of filled hydrogels. Furthermore, the result of cryo-scanning electron microscopy also verified the abovementioned results. Notably, higher NaCl concentration significantly promoted the oxidation of lipids and proteins (p < 0.05), thereby decreasing the oxidative stabilities of filled hydrogels. Our results indicated that filled hydrogels prepared under different ionic strength conditions can provide the theoretical basis for their future application in emulsion-based foods.
Ontogenetic Variation in the Mineral, Phytochemical and Yield Attributes of Brassicaceous Microgreens
Authors: Kyriacou Marios C. , El-Nakhel Christophe , Pannico Antonio , Graziani Giulia , Zarrelli Armando , Soteriou Georgios A. , Kyratzis Angelos , Antoniou Chrystalla , Pizzolongo Fabiana , Romano Raffaele , Ritieni Alberto , De Pascale Stefania , Rouphael Youssef
Published: May 2021

Microgreens constitute novel gastronomic ingredients that combine visual, kinesthetic and bioactive qualities. The definition of the optimal developmental stage for harvesting microgreens remains fluid. Their superior phytochemical content against mature leaves underpins the current hypothesis of significant changes in compositional profile during the brief interval of ontogeny from the appearance of the first (S1) to the second true leaf (S2). Microgreens of four brassicaceous genotypes (Komatsuna, Mibuna, Mizuna and Pak Choi) grown under controlled conditions and harvested at S1 and S2 were appraised for fresh and dry yield traits. They were further analyzed for macro- and micromineral content using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), carotenoid content using high-performance liquid chromatography with a diode-array detector (HPLC-DAD), volatile organic compounds using solid-phase microextraction followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC/MS), anthocyanins and polyphenols using liquid chromatography-high resolution-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) with Orbitrap technology and for chlorophyll and ascorbate concentrations, well as antioxidant capacity by spectrophotometry. Analysis of compositional profiles revealed genotype as the principal source of variation for all constituents. The response of mineral and phytochemical composition and of antioxidant capacity to the growth stage was limited and largely genotype-dependent. It is, therefore, questionable whether delaying harvest from S1 to S2 would significantly improve the bioactive value of microgreens while the cost-benefit analysis for this decision must be genotype-specific. Finally, the lower-yielding genotypes (Mizuna and Pak Choi) registered higher relative increase in fresh yield between S1 and S2, compared to the faster-growing and higher-yielding genotypes. Although the optimal harvest stage for specific genotypes must be determined considering the increase in yield against reduction in crop turnover, harvesting at S2 seems advisable for the lower-yielding genotypes.
Whey Protein Powder Analysis by Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Saxton Rose , McDougal Owen M.
Published: May 2021

There is an ever-expanding number of high protein dietary supplements marketed as beneficial to athletes, body builders, infant formulas, elder care, and animal feed. Consumers will pay more for products with high protein per serving data on their nutritional labels, making the accurate reporting of protein content critical to customer confidence. The Kjeldahl method (KM) is the industry standard to quantitate dairy proteins, but the result is based on nitrogen content, which is an approximation of nitrogen attributable to protein in milk. Product tampering by third-party manufacturers is an issue, due to the lack of United States Food and Drug Administration regulation of nutraceutical products, permitting formulators to add low-cost nitrogen-containing components to artificially inflate the KM approximated protein content in products. Optical spectroscopy is commonly used for quality control measurements and has been identified as having the potential to complement the KM as a more nuanced testing measure of dairy protein. Mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy spectra of eight protein standards provided qualitative characterization of each protein by amide I and amide II peak absorbance wavenumber. Protein doping experiments revealed that as protein amounts were increased, the amide I/II peak shape changed from the broad protein powder peaks to the narrower peaks characteristic of the individual protein. Amino acid doping experiments with lysine, glutamic acid, and glycine, determined the limit of detection by MIR spectroscopy as 25%, suggesting that MIR spectroscopy can provide product quality assurance complementary to dairy protein measurement by the KM.
Chemical Composition, Nutrient Quality and Acceptability of Edible Insects Are Affected by Species, Developmental Stage, Gender, Diet, and Processing Method
Authors: Meyer-Rochow Victor Benno , Gahukar Ruparao T. , Ghosh Sampat , Jung Chuleui
Published: May 2021

Edible insects have been considered as either nutritious food itemsper se, or as wholesome ingredients to various dishes and components of traditional subsistence. Protein, fat, mineral and vitamin contents in insects generally satisfy the requirements of healthy food, although there is considerable variation associated with insect species, collection site, processing method, insect life stage, rearing technology and insect feed. A comparison of available data(based on dry weight) showed that processing can improve the nutrient content, taste, flavour, appearance and palatability of insects, but that there are additional factors, which can impact the content and composition of insect species that have been recommended for consumption by humans. This review focuses on factors that have received little attention in connection with the task to improve acceptability or choice of edible insects and suggests ways to guarantee food security in countries where deficiencies in protein and minerals are an acute and perpetual problem. This review is meant to assist the food industry to select the most suitable species as well as processing methods for insect-based food products.
The Influence of Chemical Contaminants on the Physicochemical Properties of Unifloral and Multifloral Honey
Authors: Scripcă Laura Agripina , Amariei Sonia
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effect of antibiotic and pesticide residues on the physicochemical properties of unifloral and multifloral honey. The mineral elements content of honey was analyzed and correlated with antibiotic and pesticide residues, and a positive correlation was found between manganese and neonicotinoids. Potassium was found to be the most abundant mineral compound. Correlations were found between mineral content, color, and the content of antibiotic and pesticide residues of honey. In meadow honey, residues of antibiotics and pesticides were undetectable. In some of the other types of honey, the maximum residue limits regulated by European legislation were exceeded. Endosulfan residue was found in mint and rapeseed, honey with 0.42 and 5.14 ng/g, respectively. Neonicotinoids were found in 27% of the analyzed honey samples. Chloramphenicol was identified only in rapeseed honey, with concentrations ranging from 0.2 ng/g to 0.8 ng/g. Nitrofurans were found in 14%, and nitroimidazoles were found in 6% of the analyzed samples. According to EU legislation that is in force, the use of antibiotics in beekeeping is not allowed. The MRLs for neonicotinoids are 50 ng/g, and for coumaphos, the maximum limit is 100 ng/g. For the other pesticide residues, the maximum limit is 10 ng/g. The results of statistical analysis obtained using principal component analysis (PCA) showed a major difference in the levels of contamination of raspberry and meadow honey and the other types of honey.
Validation and Use of an Accurate, Sensitive Method for Sample Preparation and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Determination of Different Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in Dairy Products
Authors: Palacios Colón Laura , Rascón Andrés J. , Hejji Lamia , Azzouz Abdelmonaim , Ballesteros Evaristo
Published: May 2021

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances capable of altering the human hormone system and causing various diseases such as infertility and cancer as a result. In this work, a method for determining twenty-three different EDCs including parabens, alkylphenols, phenylphenols, organophosphorus pesticides, bisphenol A and triclosan in dairy products was developed. Samples are conditioned by addition of acetonitrile containing 1% formic acid, centrifugation and clean-up of the extract by continuous solid-phase extraction. EDCs in the extract are derivatised by heating in a microwave oven and quantified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The proposed method features good limits of detection (6–40 ng/kg) and precision (relative standard deviation < 7.6%); also, it is scarcely subject to matrix effects (1–20%). EDC recoveries from spiked samples ranged from 80 to 108%. The method was used to analyse a total of 33 samples of dairy products including cow, sheep and goat milk, yoghourt, milkshakes, cheese, cream, butter and custard. Bisphenol A was the individual contaminant detected in the greatest number of samples, at concentrations from 180 to 4800 ng/kg. 2-Phenylphenol and ethylparaben were found in more than one-half, at concentrations over the range 130–3500 and 89–4300 ng/kg, respectively. In contrast, alkylphenols, organophosphorus pesticides and triclosan were detected in none.
Application of Thermosonication in Red Pitaya Juice Processing: Impacts on Native Microbiota and Quality Properties during Storage
Authors: Zhu Wenxian , Ai Yana , Fang Fang , Liao Hongmei
Published: May 2021

The effects of thermosonication (TS) on microbial safety and quality of red pitaya juice during storage were assessed in this study. Freshly prepared red pitaya juices were thermosonicated at 475 W and 56 °C for 20 min. Upon TS processing, native microbiota including aerobic bacteria, yeasts, and molds reduced to less than 10 CFU/mL. Their growth during storage were slow and equal to thermal-processed (83 °C, 1.5 min) samples. During storage at 4 °C for 28 days, soluble solid content, pH, activities of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase, and browning degree remained unchanged. A visible color decay was observed in TS-processed samples at day 10, mainly resulting from decomposition of betacyanins and the growth of residual native microbiota. Compared to thermal-treated juices, better color retention was obtained by TS treatment. Therefore, TS is a promising alternative technology of thermal methods of juice processing, with equal shelf life and better quality retention effects.
Reduction of PVA Aerogel Flammability by Incorporation of an Alkaline Catalyst
Authors: Cheng Zhi-Han , Guo Mo-Lin , Chen Xiao-Yi , Wang Ting , Wang Yu-Zhong , Schiraldi David A.
Published: May 2021

Sodium hydroxide was used as a base catalyst to reduce the flammability of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) aerogels. The base-modified aerogels exhibited significantly enhanced compressive moduli, likely resulting in decreased gallery spacing and increased numbers of “struts” in their structures. The onset of decomposition temperature decreased for the PVA aerogels in the presence of the base, which appears to hinder the polymer pyrolysis process, leading instead to the facile formation of dense char. Cone calorimetry testing showed a dramatic decrease in heat release when the base was added. The results indicate that an unexpected base-catalyzed dehydration occurs at fire temperatures, which is the opposite of the chemistry normally observed under typical synthesis conditions.
Pediatric and Adolescent Oncofertility in Male Patients—From Alpha to Omega
Authors: Bîcă Ovidiu , Sârbu Ioan , Ciongradi Carmen Iulia
Published: May 2021

This article reviews the latest information about preserving reproductive potential that can offer enhanced prospects for future conception in the pediatric male population with cancer, whose fertility is threatened because of the gonadotoxic effects of chemotherapy and radiation. An estimated 400,000 children and adolescents aged 0–19 years will be diagnosed with cancer each year. Fertility is compromised in one-third of adult male survivors of childhood cancer. We present the latest approaches and techniques for fertility preservation, starting with fertility preservation counselling, a clinical practice guideline used around the world and finishing with recent advances in basic science and translational research. Improving strategies for the maturation of germ cells in vitro combined with new molecular techniques for gene editing could be the next scientific keystone to eradicate genetic diseases such as cancer related mutations in the offspring of cancer survivors.
Novel Homozygous Inactivating Mutation in the PCSK1 Gene in an Infant with Congenital Malabsorptive Diarrhea
Authors: Aerts Laetitia , Terry Nathalie A. , Sainath Nina N. , Torres Clarivet , Martín Martín G. , Ramos-Molina Bruno , Creemers John W.
Published: May 2021

Proprotein convertase 1/3 (PC1/3), encoded by the PCSK1 gene, is expressed in neuronal and (entero)endocrine cell types, where it cleaves and hence activates a number of protein precursors that play a key role in energy homeostasis. Loss-of-function mutations in PCSK1 cause a recessive complex endocrinopathy characterized by malabsorptive diarrhea and early-onset obesity. Despite the fact that neonatal malabsorptive diarrhea is observed in all patients, it has remained understudied. The aim of this study was to investigate the enteroendocrine pathologies in a male patient with congenital PCSK1 deficiency carrying the novel homozygous c.1034A>C (p.E345A) mutation. This patient developed malabsorptive diarrhea and metabolic acidosis within the first week of life, but rapid weight gain was observed after total parenteral nutrition, and he displayed high proinsulin levels and low adrenocorticotropin. In vitro analysis showed that the p.E345A mutation in PC1/3 resulted in a (near) normal autocatalytic proPC1/3 processing and only partially impaired PC1/3 secretion, but the processing of a substrate in trans was completely blocked. Immunohistochemical staining did not reveal changes in the proGIP/GIP and proglucagon/GLP-1 ratio in colonic tissue. Hence, we report a novel PCSK1 deficient patient who, despite neonatal malabsorptive diarrhea, showed a normal morphology in the small intestine.
Influencing Factors on Petrography Interpretations in Provenance Research—A Case-Study Review
Authors: Augustsson Carita
Published: May 2021

The use of framework petrography is a common initial step in provenance research of sand and sandstone. The data tend to be interpreted based on the three main components quartz, feldspar, and lithic fragments. Surprisingly often, this is done without taking other influencing factors than the tectonic setting of the catchment and/or the surroundings of the depositional basin into account. Based on a database of 14 studies with approximately 900 petrographic data points from sand and sandstone, this study demonstrates quantitative effects on the apparent composition resulting from both geological and non-geological biases. The study illustrates sandstone-classification differences based on different specifications of the three end-members quartz, feldspar, and lithic or rock fragments, how the point-counting method can affect the apparent petrographic composition of sandstone, how sorting and facies bias may be differentiated from a climate or provenance signal, and how bias due to diagenetic effects can be minimised. In conclusion, both geological and non-geological biases should be considered for provenance studies that include petrographic data.
Influence of Wave Climate on Intra and Inter-Annual Nearshore Bar Dynamics for a Sandy Beach
Authors: Andreeva Nataliya , Saprykina Yana , Valchev Nikolay , Eftimova Petya , Kuznetsov Sergey
Published: May 2021

The study investigates cross-shore outer sand bar dynamics in an open-coast non-tidal beach at the Bulgarian Black Sea due to wave climate. On seasonal to short-term (1–2 years) time scale, monthly field measurements of the outer bar profiles were related to respective modeled nearshore wave data. Hereby, seaward-shoreward bar migration was examined depending on the wave forcing, wave non-linearity, wave transformation scenarios, storms and direction of wave incidence. Analysis revealed that intra-annually highly non-linear waves were responsible for outer bar displacement, while the direction of migration depended on wave period, duration of conditions with wave steepness >0.04, angle of approach and total duration of storms. Short-term bar evolution was mainly governed by wave height and storms’ parameters as the angle of approach and duration. The correlation between the outer bar location and wave height annual variations initiated the first for the explored Black Sea region examination of possible connection between wave height’s temporal fluctuations and the variability of climatic indices the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), the Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation (AMO), the East Atlantic Oscillation (EA), the Arctic Oscillation (AO), the East Atlantic-Western Russia (EA/WR) and the Scandinavian (SCAND) patterns. According to the results the inter-annual outer bar location may vary depending on periods of maximum annual wave fluctuations, which in turn predominantly depend on indices the EA (4–5, 10–11, 20–30 years), the EA/WR (2–4, 9–13 years) and the NAO (15 years).
Thrombin Generation in Chronic Liver Diseases—A Pilot Study
Authors: Vecerzan Liliana , Olteanu Ariela , Maniu Ionela , Boicean Adrian , Cipăian Călin Remus , Dura Horaţiu , Fleacă Sorin Radu , Mihăilă Romeo Gabriel
Published: May 2021

The knowledge about coagulation disorders in patients with chronic liver disease changed in the last decade. The aim of this study was to analyze the parameters of thrombin generation in patients with chronic liver disease, as they are the most appropriate biomarkers to explore coagulation. (1) Background: The knowledge about coagulation disorders in patients with chronic liver disease changed in the last decade. The study of thrombin generation in patients with chronic liver disease provides a much more accurate assessment of the coagulation cascade; (2) Methods: This study is a prospective observational pilot study on hospitalized patients with chronic liver diseases that analyzed thrombin generation performed from their platelet-poor plasma versus that of control subjects. We analyzed a group of 59 patients with chronic liver disease and 62 control subjects; (3) Results: Thrombin generation was lower in hepatitis and cirrhosis patients compared to controls and decreases as the disease progressed. Lag time was higher in ethanolic etiology compared to the control group. Peak thrombin and endogenous thrombin potential were shorter in all etiologies when compared to the control group. The velocity index was significantly lower in HCV hepatopathies, ethanolic, and mixed etiology when compared with normal individuals; (4) Conclusions: Given the variability of thrombin generation in patients with chronic liver disease, its assay could serve to identify patients with high thrombotic and hemorrhagic risk and establish personalized conduct toward them.
Comparing Public and Provider Preferences for Setting Healthcare Priorities: Evidence from Kuwait
Authors: Alsabah Abdullah M. , Haghparast-Bidgoli Hassan , Skordis Jolene
Published: May 2021

As attempts are made to allocate health resources more efficiently, understanding the acceptability of these changes is essential. This study aims to compare the priorities of the public with those of health service providers in Kuwait. It also aims to compare the perceptions of both groups regarding key health policies in the country. Members of the general public and a sample of health service providers, including physicians, dentists, nurses, and technicians, were randomly selected to complete a structured, self-administered questionnaire. They were asked to rank health services by their perceived importance, rank preferred sources of additional health funding, and share their perceptions of the current allocation of health resources, including current healthcare spending choices and the adequacy of total resources allocated to healthcare. They were also asked for their perception of the current local policies on sending patients abroad for certain types of treatments and the policy of providing private health insurance for retirees. The response rate was above 75% for both groups. A higher tax on cigarettes was preferred by 73% of service providers as a source of additional funding for healthcare services, while 59% of the general public group chose the same option. When asked about the sufficiency of public sector health funding, 26.5% of the general public thought that resources were sufficient to meet all healthcare needs, compared with 40% of service providers. The belief that the public should be offered more opportunities to influence health resource allocation was held by 56% of the general public and 75% of service providers. More than half of the respondents from both groups believed that the policy on sending patients abroad was expensive, misused, and politically driven. Almost 64% of the general public stated that the provision of private health insurance for retirees was a ‘good’ policy, while only 34% of service providers agreed with this statement. This study showed similarities and differences between the general public and health service providers’ preferences. Both groups showed a preference for treating the young rather than the old. The general public preferred more expensive health services that had immediate effects rather than health promotion activities with delayed benefits and health services for the elderly. These findings suggest that the general public may not accept common allocative efficiency improvements in public health spending unless the challenges in this sector and the gains from reallocation are clearly communicated.
Elements of Suffering in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: The Experience of Loss, Grief, Stigma, and Trauma in the Severely and Very Severely Affected
Authors: Fennell Patricia A. , Dorr Nancy , George Shane S.
Published: May 2021

People who are severely and very severely affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) experience profound suffering. This suffering comes from the myriad of losses these patients experience, the grief that comes from these losses, the ongoing stigma that is often experienced as a person with a poorly understood, controversial chronic illness, and the trauma that can result from how other people and the health care community respond to this illness. This review article examines the suffering of patients with ME/CFS through the lens of the Fennell Four-Phase Model of chronic illness. Using a systems approach, this phase framework illustrates the effects of suffering on the patient and can be utilized to help the clinician, patient, family, and caregivers understand and respond to the patient’s experiences. We highlight the constructs of severity, uncertainty, ambiguity, and chronicity and their role in the suffering endured by patients with ME/CFS. A composite case example is used to illustrate the lives of severely and very severely affected patients. Recommendations for health care providers treating patients with ME/CFS are given and underscore the importance of providers understanding the intense suffering that the severely and very severely affected patients experience.
And When I Die: Theory of Planned Behavior as Applied to Sperm Cryopreservation
Authors: Gonen Limor Dina
Published: May 2021

The present study investigates fertility intentions of men, aged 18–59, as expressed in willingness to cryopreserve sperm for future use in procreation. An economic stated-preference framework is combined with the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to investigate which attributes are important in the decision to cryopreserve sperm, what is the Willingness to Pay (WTP) for cryopreservation, and which attributes influence it. A structured, two-part questionnaire was used, based on WTP and Conjoint analysis (CA) applied in tandem to elicit respondents’ preferences in evaluating utility. Findings show which attributes are important in the decision to cryopreserve sperm among them Risk of Infertility, Personal monthly income, Chance of pregnancy from frozen semen, Age and what are significant predictor variables for the WTP which are Personal monthly income, Importance of the risk of infertility, Initial registration fee to sperm bank and cryopreservation, and Degree of religious observance. The findings further demonstrate that respondents value sperm cryopreservation and have a positive WTP for it as it seems to contribute to improving well-being. As a result of these findings, governments should consider state funding for cryopreservation as part of national health policy.
Predicting a Need for Financial Assistance in Emergency Department Care
Authors: Davis Samuel , Nourazari Sara , Granovsky Rachel , Fard Nasser
Published: May 2021

Identifying patients with a low likelihood of paying their bill serves the needs of patients and providers alike: aligning government programs with their target beneficiaries while minimizing patient frustration and reducing waste among emergency physicians by streamlining the billing process. The goal of this study was to predict the likelihood of patients paying the balance of their emergency department visit bill within 90 days of receipt. Three machine learning methodologies were applied to predict payment: logistic regression, decision tree, and random forest. Models were trained and performance was measured using 1,055,941 patients with non-zero balances across 27 EDs from 1 August 2015 to 31 July 2017. The decision tree accurately predicted 87% of unsuccessful payments, providing significant opportunities to identify patients in need of financial assistance.
An Examination of COVID-19 Medications’ Effectiveness in Managing and Treating COVID-19 Patients: A Comparative Review
Authors: Al-Masaeed Mahmoud , Alghawanmeh Mohammad , Al-Singlawi Ashraf , Alsababha Rawan , Alqudah Muhammad
Published: May 2021

Background: The review seeks to shed light on the administered and recommended COVID-19 treatment medications through an evaluation of their efficacy. Methods: Data were collected from key databases, including Scopus, Medline, Google Scholar, and CINAHL. Other platforms included WHO and FDA publications. The review’s literature search was guided by the WHO solidarity clinical trials for COVID-19 scope and trial-assessment parameters. Results: The findings indicate that the use of antiretroviral drugs as an early treatment for COVID-19 patients has been useful. It has reduced hospital time, hastened the clinical cure period, delayed and reduced the need for mechanical and invasive ventilation, and reduced mortality rates. The use of vitamins, minerals, and supplements has been linked to increased immunity and thus offering the body a fighting chance. Nevertheless, antibiotics do not correlate with improving patients’ wellbeing and are highly discouraged from the developed clinical trials. Conclusions: The review demonstrates the need for additional clinical trials with a randomized, extensive sample base and over a more extended period to examine the potential side effects of the medications administered. Critically, the findings underscore the need for vaccination as the only viable medication to limit the SARS-CoV-2 virus spread.
Impact of Three Strengthening Exercises on Dynamic Knee Valgus and Balance with Poor Knee Control among Young Football Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wilczyński Bartosz , Wąż Piotr , Zorena Katarzyna
Published: May 2021

The observed dynamic knee valgus and the limited dynamic balance described in the literature are modifiable risk factors for injuries in athletes. Therefore, identification and appropriate prevention are crucial in managing the development of young athletes. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of three exercises strengthening the muscles: gluteal medius, popliteal and tibialis posterior to reduce dynamic knee valgus and improve the dynamic balance of the lower limbs in young football players with poor knee control. A total of 134 footballers were assessed for eligibility, and finally 45 participants (age 12–15) met the inclusion criteria. Participants were assessed with 2D video kinematic analysis during single-leg squats to assess the knee valgus angles and the dynamic balance (Y-Balance Test). No significant interactions between groups (Control and Exercise) and time (baseline and after 6 week) were noted for dynamic valgus for the left and right knee (p > 0.05). For the dynamic balance, there were statistically significant results, but not clinically relevant for anterior, posteromedial, and composite direction for the right lower limbs and for the anterior direction for left lower limbs in the exercise group. However, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in all of the YBT scores for both lower limbs between groups. This study demonstrated that there were no statistically significant differences in dynamic knee valgus angles and dynamic balance values after 6 weeks of exercise program in young footballers with poor knee control. Future randomized trials should focus on more comprehensive exercises, where possible using biofeedback methods to improve knee kinematics.
Evaluation of Air Temperature, Photoperiod and Light Intensity Conditions to Produce Cucumber Scions and Rootstocks in a Plant Factory with Artificial Lighting
Authors: An Sewoong , Hwang Hyunseung , Chun Changhoo , Jang Yoonah , Lee Hee Ju , Wi Seung Hwang , Yeo Kyung-Hwan , Yu In-ho , Kwack Yurina
Published: May 2021

Air temperature and light conditions are important factors not only to produce high-quality seedlings but also to promote energy efficiency in a plant factory with artificial lighting. In this study, we conducted two experiments in order to investigate the favorable conditions of air temperature, light intensity and photoperiod for the production of cucumber scions and rootstocks in a plant factory with artificial lighting. Cucumber scions and rootstocks were cultivated in two combined treatments: the combination of three different levels of difference between the day and night temperature (DIF), 25/20, 26/18 and 27/16 °C and five different light intensity conditions of photosynthetic photon flux, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 μmol·m−2·s−1 was set for the first experiment, and the combination of three different photoperiod conditions, 12, 16 and 20 h·d−1 and five different light intensity conditions, 50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 μmol·m−2·s−1 was set for the second experiment. In the air temperature and light intensity treatments, the hypocotyl elongation of cucumber scions and rootstocks was affected more largely by light intensity than DIF. The highest DIF treatment (27/16 °C) affected negatively on the accumulation of dry mass. On the contrary, the smallest DIF treatment (25/20 °C) was favorable for seedling growth due to lesser stress by rapid change of air temperature between photo- and dark-period. In the photoperiod and light intensity treatments, an increased DLI (daily light integral) promoted the growth of scions and rootstocks. Under the same DLI condition, the growth of scions and rootstocks increased with increasing photoperiod and decreasing light intensity. In both of experiments, while the dry weight increased with increasing the light intensity, the light use efficiencies were reduced by increasing the light intensity. Considering the growth and quality of seedlings and energy efficiency, the optimal environment conditions were represented by 25/20 °C of air temperature, 150 μmol·m−2·s−1 of light intensity and 16 h·d−1 of photoperiod.
Artificial Intelligence and Novel Sensing Technologies for Assessing Downy Mildew in Grapevine
Authors: Hernández Inés , Gutiérrez Salvador , Ceballos Sara , Iñíguez Rubén , Barrio Ignacio , Tardaguila Javier
Published: May 2021

Plant diseases and pests cause a large loss of world agricultural production. Downy mildew is a major disease in grapevine. Conventional techniques for plant diseases evaluations are time-consuming and require expert personnel. This work investigates novel sensing technologies and artificial intelligence applications for assessing downy mildew in grapevine under laboratory conditions. In our methodology, machine vision is applied to assess downy mildew sporulation, while hyperspectral imaging is used to explore its potential capability towards early detection of this disease. Image analysis applied to RGB leaf disc images is used to estimate downy mildew (Plamopara viticola) severity in grapevine (Vitis vinifera L. cv Tempranillo). A determination coefficient (R2) of 0.76 ** and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 20.53% are observed in the correlation between downy mildew severity by computer vision and expert’s visual assessment. Furthermore, an accuracy of 81% is achieved to detect downy mildew early using hyperspectral images. These results indicate that non-invasive sensing technologies and computer vision can be applied for assessing and quantify sporulation of downy mildew in grapevine leaves. The severity of this key disease is evaluated in grapevine under laboratory conditions. In conclusion, computer vision, hyperspectral imaging and machine learning could be applied for important disease detection in grapevine.
Combined Cooling and Power Management Strategy for a Standalone House Using Hydrogen and Solar Energy
Authors: Lambert Hugo , Roche Robin , Jemeï Samir , Ortega Pascal , Hissel Daniel
Published: May 2021

Tropical climate is characterized by hot temperatures throughout the year. In areas subject to this climate, air conditioning represents an important share of total energy consumption. In some tropical islands, there is no electric grid; in these cases, electricity is often provided by diesel generators. In this study, in order to decarbonize electricity and cooling production and to improve autonomy in a standalone application, a microgrid producing combined cooling and electrical power was proposed. The presented system was composed of photovoltaic panels, a battery, an electrolyzer, a hydrogen tank, a fuel cell, power converters, a heat pump, electrical loads, and an adsorption cooling system. Electricity production and storage were provided by photovoltaic panels and a hydrogen storage system, respectively, while cooling production and storage were achieved using a heat pump and an adsorption cooling system, respectively. The standalone application presented was a single house located in Tahiti, French Polynesia. In this paper, the system as a whole is presented. Then, the interaction between each element is described, and a model of the system is presented. Thirdly, the energy and power management required in order to meet electrical and thermal needs are presented. Then, the results of the control strategy are presented. The results showed that the adsorption cooling system provided 53% of the cooling demand. The use of the adsorption cooling system reduced the needed photovoltaic panel area, the use of the electrolyzer, and the use of the fuel cell by more than 60%, and reduced energy losses by 7% (compared to a classic heat pump) for air conditioning.
Children’s Experiences of Their Journey to School: Integrating Behaviour Change Frameworks to Inform the Role of the Built Environment in Active School Travel Promotion
Authors: Michail Nafsika , Ozbil Ayse , Parnell Rosie , Wilkie Stephanie
Published: May 2021

Childhood obesity is a public health problem with multiple effects on children’s life. Promoting Active School Travel (AST) could provide an inclusive opportunity for physical activity and shape healthy behaviours. Data for this cross-sectional study were drawn from questionnaires carried out in five primary schools located in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, in neighbourhoods chosen for their variability in IMD (index of multiple deprivation) and spatial structure of street networks (measured through space syntax measure of integration). A randomly selected and heterogenic sample of 145 pupils (aged 9–10) completed an open-ended questionnaire to state what they like and dislike about their journey to school. Thematic analysis identified four typologies (environmental context, emotions, social influences and trip factors) based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and specific themes and sub-themes underlying children’s affective experiences of their journeys to school. This study is the first known to authors to attempt to adapt the Capability, Opportunity and Motivation Behaviour (COM-B) model into AST and children’s experiences and associated behavioural domains with design aspects. Such an insight into children’s attitudes could inform urban planners and designers about how to apply more effective behaviour change interventions, targeting an AST increase among children.