bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on Residual Compressive Distribution of High-Strength Steel for Bridges by Base Metal Hammer Impact Peening
Authors: Kurihara Yasuyuki , Sakino Yoshihiro , Kato Tomoharu
Published: November 2021

Various peening techniques have been used to improve the fatigue strength of steel structures. Among them, base metal impact hammer peening shows significant improvement in fatigue strength in ordinary steel, but the effect on high-strength steel has not been sufficiently studied. Accordingly, this study applied base material hammer impact peening to test specimens of 780 MPa grade high-strength steel (HT780) and 490 MPa grade ordinary steel (SM490), and the residual stress was measured and simulated. The experimental results clarified that a large compressive residual stress was introduced into the inner part of the plate thickness near the indentation in the high-strength steel, although the range of introduction of residual stress was equivalent in both the ordinary steel and high-strength steel.
The Impact of Variable Horizon Shade on the Growing Season Energy Budget of a Subalpine Headwater Wetland
Authors: Hrach Dylan M. , Petrone Richard M. , Van Huizen Brandon , Green Adam , Khomik Myroslava
Published: November 2021

Surface energy budgets are important to the ecohydrology of complex terrain, where land surfaces cycle in and out of shadows creating distinct microclimates. Shading in such environments can help regulate downstream flow over the course of a growing season, but our knowledge on how shadows impact the energy budget and consequently ecohydrology in montane ecosystems is very limited. We investigated the influence of horizon shade on the surface energy fluxes of a subalpine headwater wetland in the Canadian Rocky Mountains during the growing season. During the study, surface insolation decreased by 60% (32% due to evolving horizon shade and 28% from seasonality). The influence of shade on the energy budget varied between two distinct periods: (1) Stable Shade, when horizon shade was constant and reduced sunlight by 2 h per day; and (2) Dynamic Shade, when shade increased and reduced sunlight by 0.18 h more each day, equivalent to a 13% reduction in incoming shortwave radiation and 16% in net radiation. Latent heat flux, the dominant energy flux at our site, varied temporally because of changes in incoming radiation, atmospheric demand, soil moisture and shade. Horizon shade controlled soil moisture at our site by prolonging snowmelt and reducing evapotranspiration in the late growing season, resulting in increased water storage capacity compared to other mountain wetlands. With the mounting risk of climate-change-driven severe spring flooding and late season droughts downstream of mountain headwaters, shaded subalpine wetlands provide important ecohydrological and mitigation services that are worthy of further study and mapping. This will help us better understand and protect mountain and prairie water resources.
Summer Drought in 2019 on Polish Territory—A Case Study
Authors: Ziernicka-Wojtaszek Agnieszka
Published: November 2021

The summer 2019 drought in Poland, i.e., the warmest year in observation history, was characterized. Meteorological, agricultural, hydrological, and hydrogeological aspects were taken into account. Meteorological drought in the light of regionally differentiated days of low precipitation frequency lasted the longest, i.e., over 3 months in central-western Poland. In the period between June–August 2019, in the belt of South Baltic Lakes and Central Polish Lowlands, the lowest precipitation sums of 30–60% of the norm were recorded. The values of the climatic water balance (CWB) calculated by the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation (IUNG) method for individual months of June–August for the Polish area were −129, −64, and −53 mm, respectively. The most threatened were fruit bushes, spring cereals, maize for grain and silage, and leguminous plants. In central-western and south-western Poland, the drought accelerated the date of the lowest flows by two months on average from the turn of September and October to the turn of July and August. In the lowland belt, where the drought was the most intensive, the average monthly groundwater level, both of free and tight groundwater table, was lower than the monthly averages for the whole hydrological year.
Relationship between Short-Range and Homotopic Long-Range Resting State Functional Connectivity in Temporal Lobes in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Wu Xiaoyin , Lin Fang , Sun Weiting , Zhang Tingzhen , Sun Huiwen , Li Jun
Published: November 2021

To investigate the relationship between short-range and homotopic long-range resting state functional connectivity (RSFC) in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and typically developing (TD) children, we analyzed functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) RSFC in 25 children with ASD and 22 age-matched TD children. The resting state fNIRS signals, including spontaneous fluctuations in the oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2) and deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations, were recorded from the bilateral temporal lobes. We found that (1) there was no difference in the short-range RSFC between the left and right hemisphere in either ASD or TD group; (2) both the short-range and homotopic long-range RSFC were weaker in the ASD than TD group; and (3) the short-range RSFC was stronger than the homotopic long-range RSFC in the ASD group, whereas no such difference was observed in the TD group. These observations might be helpful for a better understanding of the underlying cortical mechanism in ASD.
Understanding Parinaud’s Syndrome
Authors: Ortiz Juan Fernando , Eissa-Garces Ahmed , Ruxmohan Samir , Cuenca Victor , Kaur Mandeep , Fabara Stephanie P. , Khurana Mahika , Parwani Jashank , Paez Maria , Anwar Fatima , Tamton Hyder , Cueva Wilson
Published: November 2021

Parinaud’s syndrome involves dysfunction of the structures of the dorsal midbrain. We investigated the pathophysiology related to the signs and symptoms to better understand the symptoms of Parinaud’s syndrome: diplopia, blurred vision, visual field defects, ptosis, squint, and ataxia, and Parinaud’s main signs of upward gaze paralysis, upper eyelid retraction, convergence retraction nystagmus (CRN), and pseudo-Argyll Robertson pupils. In upward gaze palsy, three structures are disrupted: the rostral interstitial nucleus of the medial longitudinal fasciculus (riMLF), interstitial nucleus of Cajal (iNC), and the posterior commissure. In CRN, there is a continuous discharge of the medial rectus muscle because of the lack of inhibition of supranuclear fibers. In Collier’s sign, the posterior commissure and the iNC are mainly involved. In the vicinity of the iNC, there are two essential groups of cells, the M-group cells and central caudal nuclear (CCN) group cells, which are important for vertical gaze, and eyelid control. Overstimulation of the M group of cells and increased firing rate of the CCN group causing eyelid retraction. External compression of the posterior commissure, and pretectal area causes pseudo-Argyll Robertson pupils. Pseudo-Argyll Robertson pupils constrict to accommodation and have a slight response to light (miosis) as opposed to Argyll Robertson pupils were there is no response to a light stimulus. In Parinaud’s syndrome patients conserve a slight response to light because an additional pathway to a pupillary light response that involves attention to a conscious bright/dark stimulus. Diplopia is mainly due to involvement of the trochlear nerve (IVth cranial nerve. Blurry vision is related to accommodation problems, while the visual field defects are a consequence of chronic papilledema that causes optic neuropathy. Ptosis in Parinaud’s syndrome is caused by damage to the oculomotor nerve, mainly the levator palpebrae portion. We did not find a reasonable explanation for squint. Finally, ataxia is caused by compression of the superior cerebellar peduncle.
Viral Membrane Fusion Proteins and RNA Sorting Mechanisms for the Molecular Delivery by Exosomes
Authors: Zubarev Ilya , Vladimirtsev Dmitry , Vorontsova Maria , Blatov Igor , Shevchenko Konstantin , Zvereva Svetlana , Lunev Evgenii A. , Faizuloev Evgeny , Barlev Nikolay
Published: November 2021

The advancement of precision medicine critically depends on the robustness and specificity of the carriers used for the targeted delivery of effector molecules in the human body. Numerous nanocarriers have been explored in vivo, to ensure the precise delivery of molecular cargos via tissue-specific targeting, including the endocrine part of the pancreas, thyroid, and adrenal glands. However, even after reaching the target organ, the cargo-carrying vehicle needs to enter the cell and then escape lysosomal destruction. Most artificial nanocarriers suffer from intrinsic limitations that prevent them from completing the specific delivery of the cargo. In this respect, extracellular vesicles (EVs) seem to be the natural tool for payload delivery due to their versatility and low toxicity. However, EV-mediated delivery is not selective and is usually short-ranged. By inserting the viral membrane fusion proteins into exosomes, it is possible to increase the efficiency of membrane recognition and also ease the process of membrane fusion. This review describes the molecular details of the viral-assisted interaction between the target cell and EVs. We also discuss the question of the usability of viral fusion proteins in developing extracellular vesicle-based nanocarriers with a higher efficacy of payload delivery. Finally, this review specifically highlights the role of Gag and RNA binding proteins in RNA sorting into EVs.
The Role of Tumor-Derived Exosomes (TEX) in Shaping Anti-Tumor Immune Competence
Authors: Whiteside Theresa L.
Published: November 2021

Emerging studies suggest that extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediating intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment (TME) play a key role in driving cancer progression. Tumor-derived small EVs or exosomes (TEX) enriched in immunosuppressive proteins or in microRNAs targeting suppressive pathways in recipient cells contribute to reprogramming the TME into a cancer-promoting milieu. The adenosinergic pathway is an acknowledged major contributor to tumor-induced immune suppression. TEX carry the components of this pathway and utilize ATP to produce adenosine (ADO). TEX-associated ADO emerges as a key factor in the suppression of T cell responses to therapy. Here, the significance of the ADO pathway in TEX is discussed as a highly effective mechanism of cancer-driven immune cell suppression and of resistance to immune therapies.
Effect of Machining Limiting Factors on Drilling Progress during Spark Assisted Chemical Engraving (SACE): General Trends
Authors: Abou Ziki Jana D. , Wüthrich Rolf
Published: November 2021

Spark Assisted Chemical Engraving (SACE) is a micro-machining technology for non-conductive materials, mainly glass, based on thermal assisted etching. Generally, during SACE, drilling proceeds at a fast rate reaching 100 µm/s for the first 100 µm and then it slows down for depths higher than 300 µm. While several techniques have been proposed to establish faster drilling, they mainly rely on tuning the machining parameters to enhance the machining performance. However, with this approach machining parameters need to be constantly tuned to achieve certain machining performance depending on the size of the tool and the features needed. Therefore, this necessitates further work to enhance understanding regarding the SACE machining process fundamentals in order to enhance machining speed and quality. Since SACE is a thermal assisted etching process, both local heating and flushing of electrolyte in the machining zone are required. However, to the authors’ knowledge there is not any study that attempts to analyze the effect of each of these machining limiting factors on the machining performance. This work attempts to clarify the effect of each flushing and heating on the drilling progress for hole depths higher than 100 microns. It therefore provides a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of the SACE machining process.
Microring Zone Structure for Near-Field Probes
Authors: Micek Patrik , Pudis Dusan , Gaso Peter , Durisova Jana , Jandura Daniel
Published: November 2021

Recent advances in Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) technologies have shown the possibility of transmission enhancement of localized modes propagating through sub-diffraction wide slits and apertures, resulting in the strong near-field focusing of metallic planar nanostructures. This work presents a new approach to the fabrication of high-resolution near-field optical probes using 3D lithography in combination with numerical finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations. A narrow 500 nm depth of field focus area was observed both by numerical analysis and near field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) measurements. Further research and optimization are planned in order to achieve subwavelength focal regions and increased signal intensities.
Self and Nonself Short Constituent Sequences of Amino Acids in the SARS-CoV-2 Proteome for Vaccine Development
Authors: Otaki Joji M. , Nakasone Wataru , Nakamura Morikazu
Published: November 2021

Current SARS-CoV-2 vaccines take advantage of the viral spike protein required for infection in humans. Considering that spike proteins may contain both “self” and “nonself” sequences (sequences that exist in the human proteome and those that do not, respectively), nonself sequences are likely to be better candidate epitopes than self sequences for vaccines to efficiently eliminate pathogenic proteins and to reduce the potential long-term risks of autoimmune diseases. This viewpoint is likely important when one considers that various autoantibodies are produced in COVID-19 patients. Here, we comprehensively identified self and nonself short constituent sequences (SCSs) of 5 amino acid residues in the proteome of SARS-CoV-2. Self and nonself SCSs comprised 91.2% and 8.8% of the SARS-CoV-2 proteome, respectively. We identified potentially important nonself SCS clusters in the receptor-binding domain of the spike protein that overlap with previously identified epitopes of neutralizing antibodies. These nonself SCS clusters may serve as functional epitopes for effective, safe, and long-term vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, analyses of self/nonself status changes in mutants revealed that the SARS-CoV-2 proteome may be evolving to mimic the human proteome. Further SCS-based proteome analyses may provide useful information to predict epidemiological dynamics of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Microstructural Master Alloys Features of Aluminum–Erbium System
Authors: Savchenkov Sergey , Kosov Yaroslav , Bazhin Vladimir , Krylov Kirill , Kawalla Rudolf
Published: November 2021

Aluminum master alloys with rare earth metals are widely studied by many scientists around the world, but research on the production of Al-Er master alloys is still limited. The purpose of this work is to study the microstructure parameters of aluminum-erbium master alloys obtained by metallothermic reduction of salt mixtures containing erbium oxide or fluoride. The structural features were investigated by optical and scanning electron microscopy, and the dependence of the microhardness of the eutectic and solid solution fields of obtained master alloys on the content of erbium in the master alloy was determined. Studies have shown that master alloys obtained by metallothermic reduction of erbium compounds from chloride–fluoride melts are characterized by a uniform distribution of Al3Er intermetallic compounds in the volume of double eutectic [(Al) + Al3Er] and have a strong grain refinement effect. The analysis of the microstructure showed that the structure of the master alloys varies depending on the content of erbium. When the content of erbium in the master alloy is up to 6 wt.%, the eutectic structure is preserved. When the content of erbium in the master alloy is 8 wt.% or more, the structure becomes a solid solution with individual inclusions of various shapes and intermetallic compounds.
Analysis of Smart Home Technology Acceptance and Preference for Elderly in Dubai, UAE
Authors: Arar Mohammad , Jung Chuloh , Awad Jihad , Chohan Afaq Hyder
Published: November 2021

The elderly are the most predicted users for smart home technology in the United Arab Emirates and the population over 65 is expected to increase to 24.3% by 2030. Despite the rapid development of smart home technology, research has been mainly focused on technology development. To encourage conservative elderly users, however, smart home technology should be implemented for UAE elderly users to accept and integrate it into their daily lives. The objective of this paper is to analyze the preferences and needs of smart home technologies to understand the behaviors of UAE elderly users, and the factors affecting the acceptance of technology. As a methodology, a survey and interview were conducted for 110 people in their 40s and 60s and a total of 105 valid survey responses were collected and used as data for frequency, mean, cross-analysis, independent sample t-test, one-way variance analysis, and multiple regression analysis with IBM SPSS statistics 27. The results showed that 67.0% of UAE elderly users have chronic diseases such as high blood pressure (16.2%), heart disease (3.8%), diabetes (32.4%), or arthritis (10.5%). Therefore, smart home technology for health management is inevitable to improve overall lifestyles. It was statistically proven that UAE elderly users want automatic fall detection in the living room (39.0%) and bedroom (25.7%). Lifestyle monitoring in living room (44.7%) and bedroom (18.1%); the elderly preferred living room most for daily life assistance (36.2%), environmental control (50.5%), health and biometric monitoring (49.5%), and video conferencing (82.9%). In the case of sensors, elderly preferred the switch at the entrance (36.2%), and motion detecting sensors (42.9%), video cameras (56.2%), and voice recognition (50.5%) sensors in the living room. However, UAE elderly users do not think smart home technology can protect their privacy. It is found that age group and computer technology affinity are the most influential variables and UAE elderly users have an anxiety about technology, which influenced the acceptance of smart home technology.
Entropic Balance Conditions and Optimization of Distillation Column System
Authors: Balunov Alexander , Sukin Ivan , Tsirlin Anatoly
Published: November 2021

The paper considers the limitation problem of the distillation column systems separating multicomponent mixtures with serial and parallel structures. The solution takes into account the irreversibility of processes. Using entropic balance conditions, the dependence of load on heat consumption is obtained for a binary distillation column. This dependence is parameterized through two characteristic coefficients–reversible efficiency and irreversibility factor. This dependence was used to solve problems of distribution of heat and raw material fluxes in parallel column structure and selection of optimal separation order in serial structure. The obtained results make it possible to estimate the minimum heat consumption for the separation of a given flow of raw materials, the maximum productivity, and efficiency of the system.
Selective Recovery of Copper from a Synthetic Metalliferous Waste Stream Using the Thiourea-Functionalized Ion Exchange Resin Puromet MTS9140
Authors: Riley Alex L. , Porter Christopher P. , Ogden Mark D.
Published: November 2021

The extraction of Cu from mixed-metal acidic solutions by the thiourea-functionalized resin Puromet MTS9140 was studied. Despite being originally manufactured for precious metal recovery, a high selectivity towards Cu was observed over other first-row transition metals (>90% removal), highlighting a potential for this resin in base metal recovery circuits. Resin behaviour was characterised in batch-mode under a range of pH and sulphate concentrations and as a function of flow rate in a fixed-bed setup. In each instance, a high selectivity and capacity (max. 32.04 mg/g) towards Cu was observed and was unaffected by changes in solution chemistry. The mechanism of extraction was determined by XPS to be through reduction of Cu(II) to Cu(I) rather than chelation. Elution of Cu was achieved by the use of 0.5 M–1 M NaClO3. Despite effective Cu elution (82%), degradation of resin functionality was observed, and further detailed through the application of IC analysis to identify degradation by-products. This work is the first detailed study of a thiourea-functionalized resin being used to selectively target Cu from a complex multi-metal solution.
Community Orchards for Food Sovereignty, Human Health, and Climate Resilience: Indigenous Roots and Contemporary Applications
Authors: Lovell Sarah , Hayman Jann , Hemmelgarn Hannah , Hunter Andrea , Taylor John
Published: November 2021

Community orchards could play a valuable role as nature-based solutions to complex challenges we face today. In these unique plantings, a variety of nut- and fruit-producing trees and berry shrubs are often established together on public spaces to provide the community with healthy, fresh food. Interest in these plantings has been increasing in the United States, even more so since the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in our food systems. However, the roots of community orchards can be traced back to Indigenous foodways which have persisted for millennia. Then and now, community orchards support an array of functions, positioning them to contribute to solutions to major challenges related to food security, human health, and climate resilience. In this paper, contemporary applications are considered for Indigenous communities in the US that seek to care for their communities and the environment. A case study of the Osage Orchard project in Pawhuska, OK, USA, highlights the value of reconnecting with cultural foods and practices of Osage ancestors, to meet the needs and preferences of a contemporary Indigenous community.
Genomic Methylated Cytosine Level during the Dedifferentiation and Cellular Competence in Coffea arabica Lines: Insights about the Different In Vitro Responses
Authors: Oliveira João Paulo de Morais , Sanglard Natália Arruda , Ferreira Adésio , Clarindo Wellington Ronildo
Published: November 2021

Coffea arabica genotypes present distinct responses in vitro, and somaclonal variation occurrence has been reported. Global cytosine methylation is one of the epigenetic mechanisms that influences the Coffea in vitro responses. We aimed to establish the indirect somatic embryogenesis in C. arabica ‘Catuaí Vermelho’, ‘Caturra’ and ‘Oeiras’, associate the distinct responses to the methylated cytosine genomic level, and check the ploidy stability. Leaf explants were cultured in callus induction and proliferation medium. The resulted calli were transferred to the regeneration medium, and the mature cotyledonary somatic embryos were transferred to the seedling medium. ‘Oeiras’ exhibited the highest number of responsive leaf explants, followed by ‘Caturra’ and ‘Catuaí Vermelho’. Global methylated cytosine level increased over time in the ‘Catuaí Vermelho’ and ‘Caturra’ friable calli, remaining constant in ‘Oeiras’. ‘Oeiras’ did not regenerate somatic embryos, while ‘Catuaí Vermelho’ exhibited the highest number. Somatic embryo regeneration was associated with the increase of the methylated cytosine level. However, the ‘Catuaí Vermelho’ embryogenic calli showed a lower methylated cytosine level than ‘Caturra’. Recovered plantlets exhibited the same 2C value and chromosome number to the explant donors. Therefore, cytosine hypermethylation occurred during C. arabica indirect somatic embryogenesis, influencing cell competence and somatic embryos regeneration.
Land Use and Land Cover Changes in the Diversity and Life Zone for Uncontacted Indigenous People: Deforestation Hotspots in the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve, Ecuadorian Amazon
Authors: Heredia-R Marco , Torres Bolier , Cabrera-Torres Francisco , Torres Emma , Díaz-Ambrona Carlos G. H. , Pappalardo Salvatore Eugenio
Published: November 2021

Land use and land cover change (LULC) is an essential component for the monitoring environmental change and managing natural resources in areas of high natural and cultural biodiversity, such as the Amazon biome. This study was conducted in in the northern Amazon of Ecuador, specifically in the Diversity and Life Zone (DLZ) of the Yasuní Biosphere Reserve (YBR). The general aim was to investigate the territorial dynamics of land use/land cover changes to support policies for environmental and sociocultural protection in the DLZ. Specific objectives included (i) mapping LULC spatial and temporal dynamics in the DLZ in the period from 1999 to 2018, (ii) identifying sensitive LULC hotspots within the DLZ, and (iii) defining the possible policy implications for sustainable land use in the DLZ. Multitemporal satellite imagery from the Landsat series was used to map changes in LULC, which were divided into three-time stages (1999–2009, 2009–2018, 1999–2018). We adopted open-access Landsat images downloaded from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The processes for assessing LULC in the DLZ included (1) data collection and analysis, (2) data processing for remote sensing, (3) thematic land cover, and (4) homogenization and vectorization of images. The results showed that in the period 1999–2018, most of the uses and land cover were transformed into pastures in the DLZ. Therefore, it is important to improve territorial planning, to avoid conflicts between indigenous populations, migrant settlers, and uncontacted indigenous populations that live in the DLZ, within the YBR.
Viability, Storage Stability and In Vitro Gastrointestinal Tolerance of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Grown in Model Sugar Systems with Inulin and Fructooligosaccharide Supplementation
Authors: Parhi Priyanka , Song Keang , Choo Wee
Published: November 2021

This study aims to investigate the effects of inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) supplementation on the viability, storage stability, and in vitro gastrointestinal tolerance of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in different sugar systems using 24 h growth and 10 days survival studies at 37 °C, inulin, and FOS (0%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3% and 4%) supplementation in 2%, 3%, and 4% glucose, fructose, lactose, and sucrose systems. Based on the highest percentage increase in growth index, sucrose and lactose were more suitable sugar substrates for inulin and FOS supplementation. In survival studies, based on cell viability, inulin supplementation showed a better protective effect than FOS in 3% and 4% sucrose and lactose systems. Four selected sucrose and lactose systems supplemented with inulin and FOS were used in a 12-week storage stability study at 4 °C. Inulin (3%, 4%) and FOS (2%, 4%) supplementation in sucrose and lactose systems greatly enhanced the refrigerated storage stability of L. plantarum. In the gastrointestinal tolerance study, an increase in the bacterial survival rate (%) showed that the supplementation of FOS in lactose and sucrose systems improved the storage viability of L. plantarum. Both inulin and FOS supplementation in sucrose and lactose systems improved the hydrophobicity, auto-aggregation, co-aggregation ability of L. plantarum with Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis.
In Situ Synthesis of Magnetic Poly(DMAEAB-co-NIPAm)@Fe3O4 Composite Hydrogel for Removal of Dye from Water
Authors: Chen Zhi , Song Xia , Soh Wilson Wee Mia , Wen Yuting , Zhu Jingling , Zhang Miao , Li Jun
Published: November 2021

Water pollution by toxic substances, such as dye molecules, remains a major environmental problem that needs to be solved. In the present work, the magnetic composite hydrogel based on the poly(2-(methacryloyloxy)-N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-N,N-dimethylethan-1-aminium bromide-co-N-isopropylacrylamide) copolymer with incorporated Fe3O4 particles ((poly(DMAEAB-co-NIPAm)@Fe3O4)) was prepared by an in situ synthesis technique for the efficient removal of dye molecules from water. The successfully synthesized magnetic hydrogel was characterized by FTIR, XRD, TGA, and TEM. The removal efficiency of the anionic dye bromophenol blue (BPB) and the cationic dye rhodamine B (RDM) by the prepared hydrogel adsorbents was evaluated. Various adsorption parameters, including the concentration of adsorbents and adsorption time, were also investigated. The results showed that the synthesized magnetic hydrogel had excellent BPB removal performance compared to the removal of RDM. The optimum adsorbent concentration for 0.5 mM BPB solution was approximately 0.5 g/L, and the removal efficiency was more than 99%. The kinetics data of BPB removal fitted well into the pseudo-2nd-order model, indicating that BPB dye adsorption involves chemical adsorption and physical adsorption. In addition, recycling studies were conducted to examine the reusability of the magnetic hydrogel for BPB removal for up to five cycles and the hydrogel could be reused without losing its high removal efficiency. The magnetic hydrogel poly(DMAEAB-co-NIPAm)@Fe3O4 with high removal efficiency, good selectivity, and reusability shows great potential for the removal of anionic dyes in wastewater treatment.
Fruit Quality Attributes of ‘Arisoo’ and ‘Picnic’ Apples as Influenced by 1-Methylcyclopropene Concentration and Its Application Frequency during Cold Storage
Authors: Kwon Jung-Geun , Yoo Jingi , Win Nay Myo , Maung The-Thiri , Naing Aung Htay , Kang In-Kyu
Published: November 2021

The efficacy of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) in maintenance of apple fruit quality can differ depending on apple cultivar, ethylene content at harvest, 1-MCP concentration, the interval between harvest and 1-MCP application, and the number of applications. In this study, we investigated whether the 1-MCP concentration and its application frequency differently affected fruit quality attributes of the two new apple cultivars ‘Arisoo’ and ‘Picnic’. The fruits were treated with 1-MCP (as single or double treatments) at the rate of 0 μL L−1 (control), 0.5 μL L−1, 1 μL L−1, 0.5 + 0.5 μL L−1, and 1 + 1 μL L−1 for 18 h, and they were stored at 0 °C up to six months. Comparatively, the fruit qualities of 1-MCP treated fruits were higher than that of the control during cold storage, with a higher suppression of internal ethylene content and a slower reduction of titratable acidity in 1-MCP treatments than the controls throughout the cold storage in both cultivars, regardless of the concentration and number of applications. Reduction of fruit firmness and soluble solid contents were maintained by single application of 0.5 μL L−1 1-MCP in ‘Arisoo’ apple, while double application of 0.5 + 0.5 μL L−1 was needed in ‘Picnic’ cultivar. The effective concentration for weight-loss reduction was found to be the single application of 1 μL L−1 1-MCP in both ‘Arisoo’ and ‘Picnic’. Conclusively, 1-MCP as single treatment at the rate of 0.5 μL L−1 could be sufficient in inhibiting ethylene action and maintaining fruit quality losses during cold storage, particularly in ‘Arisoo’. However, double application of 1-MCP might be necessary for some quality attributes in ‘Picnic’ apple.
Biodiversity and Spatial-Temporal Dynamics of Margalefidinium Species in Jiaozhou Bay, China
Authors: Liu Shuya , Zhang Mengjia , Zhao Yongfang , Chen Nansheng
Published: November 2021

Many Margalefidinium species are cosmopolitan harmful algal bloom (HAB) species that have caused huge economic and ecological damage. Despite extensive research on Margalefidinium species, the biodiversity and spatial-temporal dynamics of these species remain obscure. Jiaozhou Bay is an ideal area for HAB research, being one of the earliest marine survey areas in China. In this study, we carried out the first metabarcoding study on the temporal and spatial dynamics of Margalefidinium species using the 18S rDNA V4 region as the molecular marker and samples collected monthly at 12 sampling sites in Jiaozhou Bay in 2019. Two harmful Margalefidinium species (M. polykrikoides and M. fulvescens) were identified with potentially high genetic diversity (although we cannot rule out the possibility of intra-genome sequence variations). Both M. polykrikoides and M. fulvescens demonstrated strong temporal preference with a sharp peak of abundance in early autumn (September), but without showing strong location preference in Jiaozhou Bay. Our results revealed that temperature might be the main driver for their temporal dynamics. Knowledge of biodiversity and spatial-temporal dynamics of the Margalefidinium species may shed light on the understanding of mechanisms underlying strongly biased occurrences of Margalefidinium blooms recorded globally.
Lean Six Sigma Redesign of a Process for Healthcare Mandatory Education in Basic Life Support—A Pilot Study
Authors: Dempsey Anne , Robinson Ciara , Moffatt Niamh , Hennessy Therese , Bradshaw Annmarie , Teeling Sean Paul , Ward Marie , McNamara Martin
Published: November 2021

Healthcare staff are required to undertake mandatory training programs to ensure they maintain key clinical competencies. This study was conducted in a private hospital in Ireland, where the processes for accessing mandatory training were found to be highly complex and non-user friendly, resulting in missed training opportunities, specific training license expiration, and underutilized training slots which resulted in lost time for both the trainers and trainees. A pilot study was undertaken to review the process for accessing mandatory training with a focus on the mandatory training program of Basic Life Support (BLS). This was chosen due to its importance in patient resuscitation and its requirement in the hospital achieving Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. A pre- and post-team-based intervention design was used with Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology employed to redesign the process of booking, scheduling, and delivery of BLS training leading to staff individual BLS certification for a period of two years. The redesign of the BLS training program resulted in a new blended delivery method, and the initiation of a pilot project led to a 50% increase in the volume of BLS classes and a time saving of 154 h 30 min for staff and 48 h 14 min for BLS instructors. The success of the BLS process access pilot has functioned as a platform for the redesign of other mandatory education programs and will be of interest to hospitals with mandatory training requirements that are already facing healthcare challenges and demands on staff time.
Effects of E-Cigarette Refill Liquid Flavorings with and without Nicotine on Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Goenka Shilpi , Simon Sanford R.
Published: November 2021

Smoking is an etiologic factor for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Although cigarette smoke has been extensively researched for retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell degeneration, the potential for adverse effects on the retinal epithelium following exposure to flavored e-cigarette refill liquid has never been explored. In this preliminary study, we have examined the effects of 20 e-liquids (10 different flavored nicotine-free and 10 nicotine-rich e-liquids) used in e-cigarettes on the metabolic activity, membrane integrity, and mitochondrial membrane potential of RPE cells. Our results showed that of the flavors studied over the concentration range: 0.5, 1, and 2% v/v for a duration of 48 h, cinnamon was the most toxic and menthol was the second most toxic, while other flavors showed lesser or no cytotoxicity. The presence of nicotine augmented cytotoxicity for cinnamon, menthol, strawberry, vanilla, and banana while for other flavors there was no synergism. Together, our results demonstrate that exposure of RPE to flavored e-cigarette refill liquids caused significant cytotoxicity and may be a risk factor for the development of retinal pathogenesis, although further in-depth studies are necessary.
Smoking Cessation Apps: A Systematic Review of Format, Outcomes, and Features
Authors: Barroso-Hurtado María , Suárez-Castro Daniel , Martínez-Vispo Carmela , Becoña Elisardo , López-Durán Ana
Published: November 2021

Smoking cessation interventions are effective, but they are not easily accessible for all treatment-seeking smokers. Mobile health (mHealth) apps have been used in recent years to overcome some of these limitations. Smoking cessation apps can be used in combination with a face-to-face intervention (FFSC-Apps), or alone as general apps (GSC-Apps). The aims of this review were (1) to examine the effects of FFSC-Apps and GSC-Apps on abstinence, tobacco use, and relapse rates; and (2) to describe their features. A systematic review was conducted following the internationally Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Of the total 6016 studies screened, 24 were included, of which nine used GSC-Apps and 15 FFSC-Apps. Eight studies reported significant differences between conditions in smoking cessation outcomes, with three of them being in favor of the use of apps, and two between different point-assessments. Concerning Apps features, most GSC-Apps included self-tracking and setting a quit plan, whereas most of the FFSC-Apps included self-tracking and carbon monoxide (CO) measures. Smartphone apps for smoking cessation could be promising tools. However, more research with an adequate methodological quality is needed to determine its effect. Nevertheless, smartphone apps’ high availability and attractiveness represent a great opportunity to reach large populations.
Faculty of Education Professors’ Perception about the Inclusion of University Students with Disabilities
Authors: Valle-Flórez Rosa-Eva , de Caso Fuertes Ana María , Baelo Roberto , García-Martín Sheila
Published: November 2021

The recognition of the right to the inclusion of people with disabilities on a global scale has led to progress in the planning and development of policies and programs among different areas. The present work addresses the accessibility barriers to university education as an opportunity for greater inclusion. Universities must facilitate all students’ physical, curricular, and relational access and comply with a “reasonable accommodation” policy to allow students with disabilities equal opportunities. The aim is to analyze the barriers that hinder educational inclusion. Four factors are explored: the students’ accessibility to facilities and resources; the teachers’ willingness to respond to students with disabilities and special educational needs (SEN); the teachers’ curricular adjustments to meet those needs; the students’ interactions with their peers and professors. We worked with a sample of 201 university professors of teacher training programs in Spain. The results show statistically significant differences in the factors indicated, according to sex, age group, teaching experience, and experience with students who require educational support. According to the study results, a series of recommendations are included to improve the training necessary for university professors to promote inclusive education.
Understanding Wildlife Crime from Eco-Existential and African Perspectives: A Psycho-Philosophical Investigation
Authors: Mayer Claude-Hélène
Published: November 2021

Wildlife crime has huge consequences regarding global environmental changes to animals, plants and the entire ecosystem. Combatting wildlife crime effectively requires a deep understanding of human–wildlife interactions and an analysis of the influencing factors. Conservation and green criminology are important in reducing wildlife crime, protecting wildlife and the ecosystem and informing policy-makers about best practices and strategies. However, the past years have shown that wildlife crime is not easy to combat and it is argued in this article that there are underlying existential “givens” and culture-specific aspects that need to be investigated to understand why wildlife crime is still on the rise. This theoretical article explores (eco-)existential perspectives, Greening’s four givens and selected African philosophical concepts, aiming to understand the complexities behind the prevalence of wildlife crime within global and African contexts.
Reactor Designs and Configurations for Biological and Bioelectrochemical C1 Gas Conversion: A Review
Authors: Ayol Azize , Peixoto Luciana , Keskin Tugba , Abubackar Haris Nalakath
Published: November 2021

Microbial C1 gas conversion technologies have developed into a potentially promising technology for converting waste gases (CO2, CO) into chemicals, fuels, and other materials. However, the mass transfer constraint of these poorly soluble substrates to microorganisms is an important challenge to maximize the efficiencies of the processes. These technologies have attracted significant scientific interest in recent years, and many reactor designs have been explored. Syngas fermentation and hydrogenotrophic methanation use molecular hydrogen as an electron donor. Furthermore, the sequestration of CO2 and the generation of valuable chemicals through the application of a biocathode in bioelectrochemical cells have been evaluated for their great potential to contribute to sustainability. Through a process termed microbial chain elongation, the product portfolio from C1 gas conversion may be expanded further by carefully driving microorganisms to perform acetogenesis, solventogenesis, and reverse β-oxidation. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the various kinds of bioreactors that are employed in these microbial C1 conversion processes.
Performance of Professional Soccer Players before and after COVID-19 Infection; Observational Study with an Emphasis on Graduated Return to Play
Authors: Savicevic Anamarija Jurcev , Nincevic Jasna , Versic Sime , Cuschieri Sarah , Bandalovic Ante , Turic Ante , Becir Boris , Modric Toni , Sekulic Damir
Published: November 2021

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in sport has been the subject of numerous studies over the past two years. However, knowledge about the direct impact of COVID-19 infection on the performance of athletes is limited, and the importance of studies on this topic is crucial during the current pandemic era. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in the match running performance (MRP) of professional soccer players that occurred as a result of COVID-19 infection after fulfilling all of the prerequisites for a safe return to play (RTP). The participants were 47 professional soccer players from a team which competed in first Croatian division (21.6 years old on average) during the 2020/21 season. The total sample was divided into two subgroups based on the results of a PCR test for COVID-19, where 31 players tested positive (infected) and 16 tested negative. We observed the PCR test results (positive vs. negative PCR), the number of days needed to return to the team, number of days needed to RTP after quarantine and isolation, and MRP (10 variables measured by a global positioning system). The number of days where the infected players were not included in the team ranged from 7 to 51 (Median: 12). Significant pre- to post-COVID differences in MRP for infected players were only found for high-intensity accelerations and high-intensity decelerations (t-test = 2.11 and 2.13, respectively; p < 0.05, moderate effect size differences), with poorer performance in the post-COVID period. Since a decrease of the MRP as a result of COVID-19 infection was only noted in two variables, we can highlight appropriateness of the applied RTP. However, further adaptations and improvements of the RTP are needed with regard to high-intensity activities.
International Trade and Health in Thailand: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kiewnin Kamonwan , Boontantrapiwat Titaree , Sosom Jeerapa , Hongtumrong Mintar , Khunakorncharatphong Anon , Kanchanachitra Churnrurtai , Pachanee Cha-aim
Published: November 2021

International trade has become more complicated and is now related to more aspects of health and the health system. As Thailand is active in international trade and health, understanding what knowledge exists and determining the knowledge gap is essential for generating the necessary evidence in order to promote better understanding and allow evidence-based policy decisions to be made. This study reviewed the existence of knowledge on international trade and health issues in a scoping review, focusing on Thailand during the period 1991–2020. In total, 156 studies from seven databases and manual searching were included. Of these, 46% were related to trade in health services and 39% were linked to intellectual property, particularly access to medicines. This review found only a very small amount of research on other issues and did not identify any study on trade policies or products related to health and international trade and the environment. We therefore recommend that further studies should be carried out to provide more critical evidence—in particular, more research focusing on the impacts of trade on health-related goods and the analysis of the positive and negative impacts of international trade on industry is needed. Furthermore, better knowledge management through the publication of research findings and making them searchable on international databases will increase the visibility of international trade, increase our knowledge of health issues, and provide supporting evidence.
The Effectiveness of Hearing Protection Devices: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kwak Chanbeom , Han Woojae
Published: November 2021

To prevent intensive noise exposure in advance and be safely controlled during such exposure, hearing protection devices (HPDs) have been widely used by workers. The present study evaluates the effectiveness of these HPDs, partitioned into three different outcomes, such as sound attenuation, sound localization, and speech perception. Seven electronic journal databases were used to search for published articles from 2000 to 2021. Based on inclusion criteria, 20 articles were chosen and then analyzed. For a systematic review and meta-analysis, standardized mean differences (SMDs) and effect size were calculated using a random-effect model. The funnel plot and Egger’s regression analysis were conducted to assess the risk of bias. From the overall results of the included 20 articles, we found that the HPD function performed significantly well for their users (SMDs: 0.457, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.034–0.881, p < 0.05). Specifically, a subgroup analysis showed a meaningful difference in sound attenuation (SMDs: 1.080, 95% CI: 0.167–1.993, p < 0.05) when to wear and not to wear HPDs, but indicated no significance between the groups for sound localization (SMDs: 0.177, 95% CI: 0.540–0.894, p = 0.628) and speech perception (SMDs: 0.366, 95% CI: −0.100–1.086, p = 0.103). The HPDs work well for their originally designated purposes without interfering to find the location of the sound sources and for talking between the workers. Taking into account various factors, such as the characteristics of the users, selection of appropriate types, and fitting methods for wearing in different circumstances, seems to be necessary for a reliable systematic analysis in terms of offering the most useful information to the workers.