bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Process Performance and Functional Microbial Community in the Anaerobic Digestion of Chicken Manure: A Review
Authors: Song Yapeng , Qiao Wei , Zhang Jiahao , Dong Renjie
Published: June 2023

Anaerobic digestion is one of the most widely used treatment methods for animal manure. Chicken manure has high methane production potential and is thus a suitable substrate for biogas plants. However, high nitrogen content inhibits the metabolism of anaerobic microorganisms and thus hinders methane production from chicken manure. Enhancing the performance of anaerobic digestion for chicken manure is indeed a long-standing challenge. This review presents new insights into maintaining methanogens’ activities, the decomposition of acetate, and the dynamics of methanogenic pathways under high ammonia stress. This review also analyzed the possible strategies for alleviating ammonia inhibition effects, including supplementing trace elements, co-digestion with nitrogen-less materials, in-situ ammonia removal, and long adaptation of anaerobic consortia to ammonia stress. The insights obtained in this paper may provide helpful information for a better understanding of anaerobic digestion technology for chicken manure and other nitrogen-rich waste and wastewater.
Experimental Study on the Thermal Performance of Flat Loop Heat Pipe Applied in Data Center Cooling
Authors: Tang Yongle , Zhang Xuewei , Liu Zhichun
Published: June 2023

The cooling system is the auxiliary equipment that consumes the most energy in a data center, accounting for about 30 to 50% of the total energy consumption. In order to effectively reduce the energy consumption of a data center, it is very important to improve the heat exchange efficiency at the chip level. Compared with air cooling, single-phase cold plate liquid cooling, and immersion liquid cooling, the flat loop heat pipe (FLHP) is considered to be a better chip-level cooling solution for data centers. It has extremely high heat transfer efficiency and heat flux variability, and it can avoid the operation risk caused by liquid entering the server. In this paper, a FLHP with an evaporator designed with a “Tesla valve” flow channel configuration is developed. Experiments on the FLHP are carried out, focusing on the installation angles and cooling condition factors. The results show that an inclination angle of 20° is the critical point of the influence of gravity on the performance of the FLHP; to ensure good operation of the FLHP, the installation angle should be greater than 20°. The equivalent heat transfer coefficients of the FLHP condenser under different cooling conditions are calculated. It is found that water cooling can provide higher cooling heat transfer coefficients with lower energy consumption and operating noise. Additionally, the heat transfer limit, operating temperature uniformity, and start-up stability of the FLHP are significantly improved under water cooling conditions. The maximum heat load of the FLHP is up to 230 W, and the temperature difference of the evaporator surface can be controlled within 0.5 °C, under 20 °C water cooling. Finally, using the FLHP for thermal management of the chip, its heat transfer efficiency is 166 and 41% higher than that of air cooling and water cooling, respectively.
Applied Control and Artificial Intelligence for Energy Management: An Overview of Trends in EV Charging, Cyber-Physical Security and Predictive Maintenance
Authors: Ricciardi Celsi Lorenzo , Valli Anna
Published: June 2023

On 28 February–2 March 2023, the 2023 States General of Artificial Intelligence (AI) event was held in Italy under the sponsorship of several multinational companies. The purpose of this event was mainly to create a venue for allowing international protagonists of AI to discuss and confront on the recent trends in AI. The aim of this paper is to report on the state of the art of the literature on the most recent control engineering and artificial intelligence methods for managing and controlling energy networks with improved efficiency and effectiveness. More in detail, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the scope of the literature review considered in this paper is specifically limited to recent trends in EV charging, cyber-physical security, and predictive maintenance. These application scenarios were identified in the above-mentioned event as responsible for triggering most of the business needs currently expressed by energy companies. A critical discussion of the most relevant methodological approaches and experimental setups is provided, together with an overview of the future research directions.
Exploring the Potential of Lignocellulosic Biomass-Derived Polyoxymethylene Dimethyl Ether as a Sustainable Fuel for Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Kowthaman Chakrapani Nagappan , Rahman S. M. Ashrafur , Fattah I. M. R.
Published: June 2023

The most effective way to reduce internal combustion engine emissions is to use a sustainable alternative fuel that contains oxygen molecules. Alternative fuels may be used to address a future global energy crisis. Different oxygenated alternative fuels have been investigated in internal combustion engines. Polyoxymethylene di-methylene ether (PODE), which contains 3–5 CH2O groups, is currently superior in the field of oxygenated fuels due to its physical and chemical properties. Furthermore, using PODE as a fuel does not necessitate any significant engine modifications. When compared to standard diesel fuel, the use of PODE results in near stoichiometric combustion with less hazardous exhaust gas. It also significantly reduces NOx emissions due to the lack of C-to-C bonds. Several articles in the literature were found on the manufacturing and application processes for the production of PODE. However, the current review focuses primarily on simplifying the various production technologies, the physical and chemical properties of PODEn and its advantages and disadvantages in ICEs, PODEn application in internal combustion engines and its characteristics, PODE spray analysis, and measurements of the fuel’s physical and chemical characteristics. This review emphasizes the fact that PODE can be used as a sole fuel or in conjunction with fossil fuels and advanced combustion technologies. Because C-C bonds and higher oxygen molecules are not available, the trade-off relationship between nitrogen oxides and soot production is avoided when PODEn is used as a fuel, and combustion efficiency is significantly improved.
Obesity vs. Metabolically Healthy Obesity in East Asia
Authors: Mathis Bryan J. , Tanaka Kiyoji , Hiramatsu Yuji
Published: June 2023

With over one-third of East Asia’s 1.7 billion people overweight or obese, mounting demographic pressure and burgeoning healthcare costs are forcing public health officials to grapple with the rising morbidity and mortality associated with obesity. However, the presence of metabolically healthy obesity, in which the short-term disease risks of diabetes and heart disease are low, represents a possible buffer for healthcare planning in East Asia. This narrative review analyzes the health risks from obesity through representative Japan- and China-specific analyses that take into account unique cultural, genetic, and other factors that drive obesity; the potential impact of metabolically healthy obesity on public health; and suggested non-surgical/non-pharmacological interventions to relieve pressure on the nationalized healthcare systems prevalent in the region. Such an emphasis on interventions to both delay obesity as well as potentially reverse metabolic syndrome could save millions of lives and billions of USD equivalents in healthcare throughout East Asia.
Oral Administration of Animal and Plant Protein Mixture with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IDCC 3501 Improves Protein Digestibility
Authors: Jeon Hyeon , Kim Hayoung , Lee Minjee , Moon Jinseok , Kim Jungyeon , Yang Jungwoo , Jung Young
Published: June 2023

A combined usage of animal and plant proteins-mixture could aid to solve environmental and social problems arising from the use of animal protein alone, while also improving the taste and texture of plant protein. Protein mixtures could be a better protein source due to the high availability of amino acids in the body compared with single proteins. Consuming proteins with probiotics can provide more beneficial health effects by helping to hydrolyze protein and absorb amino acids in the body. In this study, coadministration of an animal and plant protein mixture with a high concentration of probiotics was investigated to increase protein digestibility and amino acids absorbability in a mice model. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum IDCC 3501, which has the maximum ability to hydrolyze a protein mixture, composed of soybean protein and milk protein, was selected, and the changes in mice (C57BL/6J, male, six weeks) were investigated after the coadministration of protein mixture and 5 × 108 or 5 × 109 CFU/mL of L. plantarum for eight weeks. Normal diet, high-protein diet (HPD), and HPD supplementing L. plantarum were separately administered to mice. Food and water consumption of the mice did not differ depending on diet type. Measurements of the serum concentrations of amino acids showed that the absorption of aspartate, glutamate, isoleucine, leucine, valine, and lysine increased when high concentrations of protein and probiotics were administered. Thus, high L. plantarum concentrations could be a protein diet supplementation to improve health by promoting the absorption of amino acids.
Fermentation of Date Pulp Residues Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia kudriavzevii—Insights into Biological Activities, Phenolic and Volatile Compounds, Untargeted Metabolomics, and Carbohydrate Analysis Post In Vitro Digestion
Authors: Alkalbani Nadia S. , Alam Muneeba Zubair , Al-Nabulsi Anas , Osaili Tareq M. , Olaimat Amin , Liu Shao-Quan , Kamal-Eldin Afaf , Ayyash Mutamed
Published: June 2023

Utilizing agricultural byproducts, such as date pulp residue (DPR), can contribute significantly towards achieving sustainable food production. This paper aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties of DPR and evaluate the health benefits of nonfermented and fermented DPR samples both pre- and post-digestion (bioaccessible portions). Additionally, it aimed to analyze the carbohydrates and untargeted metabolites in the bioaccessible portions. Fermentation of DPR by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia kudriavzevii resulted in an abundance of malic acid (over 2400 mg/100 g) and the identification of 42 volatiles, with different degrees of predominance observed in the samples. Twenty phenolics were determined by UPLC in fermented DPR, with (-)-epicatechin, tyrosol, and gallic acid being the most abundant. Bioaccessibility studies revealed that fermented DPR samples retained at least ~44% of α-glucosidase inhibition and exhibited improved α-amylase inhibition compared to nonfermented and undigested samples. In vitro cytotoxicity assays showed a more potent inhibitory effect of fermented DPR against MCF-7 and Caco2 cell lines (average inhibition of 55% and 74.4% for the two types of fermented samples) compared to nonfermented DPR. The untargeted metabolomics analysis identified C5-branched dibasic acid metabolism as the most prominent pathway, with four metabolites identified. Furthermore, the analysis of bioaccessible carbohydrate metabolites in the fermented DPR using LC-QTOF showed the presence of a group of phytochemicals, including three terpenoid metabolites.
Non-Linear Analyses of Fish Behaviours in Response to Aquatic Environmental Pollutants—A Review
Authors: Eguiraun Harkaitz , Martinez Iciar
Published: June 2023

Analysis of fish behaviour is an effective way to indirectly identify the presence of environmental pollutants that negatively affect fish life, its production and quality. Monitoring individual and collective behaviours produces large amounts of non-linear data that require tailor-suited computational methods to interpret and manage the information. Fractal dimension (FD) and entropy are two groups of such non-linear analysing methods that serve as indicators of the complexity (FD) and predictability (entropy) of the behaviours. Since behavioural complexity and predictability may be modulated by contaminants, the changes in its FD and entropy values have a clear potential to be embedded in a biological early warning system (BEWS), which may be particularly useful in Precision Fish Farming settings and to monitor wild populations. This work presents a review of the effects of a wide range of environmental contaminants, including toxic compounds, cleaning and disinfecting agents, stimulant (caffeine), anaesthetics and antibiotics, heavy metals (lead, cupper, and mercury), selenium, pesticides and persistent environmental pollutants, on the FD and entropy values of collective and individual behavioural responses of different fish species. All the revised studies demonstrate the usefulness of both FD and entropy to indicate the presence of pollutants and underline the need to consider early changes in the trend of the evolution of their values prior to them becoming significantly different from the control values, i.e., while it is still possible to identify the contaminant and preserve the health and integrity of the fish.
Short and Long-Term Effects of Early and Late Weaning on Atlantic Cod, Gadus morhua
Authors: Puvanendran Velmurugu , Hansen Øyvind J.
Published: June 2023

Studies have shown negative short-term effects of early weaning (EW) in finfish larvae but information on long-term effects of EW on growth and subsequent economic loss is lacking. We evaluated the short- and long-term effects of EW and late weaning (LW) on Atlantic cod. Cod larvae were fed with enriched rotifers from 2 to 35 days post-hatch (dph) and weaning carried out from 21 to 35 dph (EW) or with enriched rotifers from 2 to 29 dph followed by enriched Artemia nauplii from 25 to 56 dph and weaning carried out from 45 to 56 dph (LW). At 190 dph, 50 fish from each tank were tagged with an electronic tag and were transferred to sea cages at 10 months old. At the end of 30 months post-hatch, the weight of the fish was recorded. Our results showed a significant short-term effect of the weaning method on the growth of Atlantic cod at 65 dph, but no significant difference at 90 and 190 dph. However, fish from LW showed a significantly higher body weight compared to fish from EW at 30 months post-hatch. A cost analysis indicated substantial benefit for commercial cod farming by using LW and we recommend using LW to gain sizable financial benefit.
Numerical Investigation on Pairing Solutions of Non-Positive Displacement Pumps and Internal Gear Pump for High-Speed Design
Authors: Sun Fei , Ji Hong , Yang Shengqing , Li Chen
Published: June 2023

Raising the working speed of hydraulic pumps to maximize the efficient matching range of electric motors is one of the possible ways to achieve energy efficiency in electric machinery. By means of a simulation method verified with subsequent experiments in terms of filling efficiency, this paper first analyzed the suction capacity of crescent-type internal gear pumps with different geometric parameters at high speed, and the gear pair that is more suitable for high-speed operation was obtained. Subsequently, as the more significant contributions, two pairing solutions of a non-positive displacement pump and an internal gear pump were proposed to pressurize the inlet of the gear pump to keep it from cavitating. In the compact design solution, the inclined-holes type and axial-flow blade pumps share the same speed as the hydraulic pump, while the decentralized layout solution allows for flexible adjustment of the centrifugal impeller-type pump speed to maximize the filling capability. The final simulation results show that, with the help of inclined-holes type and centrifugal impeller type pumps, the filling efficiency of the internal gear pump at 6000 rpm can be improved by 3.59% and 5.84%, respectively, while the axial-flow blades pump fails to eliminate cavitation regardless of speed. Moreover, when the hydraulic pump works at 6000 rpm, the centrifugal impeller speed needs to be set above 2500 rpm to make sense.
Exploring the Potential of Wild Andean Blueberries for Powdered Juice Production through Spray Drying
Authors: Estupiñan-Amaya Mauren , Fuenmayor Carlos Alberto , López-Córdoba Alex
Published: June 2023

The Andean blueberry (Vaccinium meridionale Sw) is an underutilized wild fruit native to South America. It is known for its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. In this study, Andean blueberry juice powders were produced via spray drying, using maltodextrin (MD), gum Arabic (GA) or a combination of both (MD:GA) as wall materials. The spray-dried juices were analyzed for the recovery percentage of total polyphenols and monomeric anthocyanins, as well as for their physicochemical and technological properties. Results showed that the type of carrier agent used caused statistically significant differences in the bioactive content and the antioxidant activity of the powders (p < 0.05). It was found that the MD samples has the highest monomeric anthocyanins content (0.88 ± 0.02 mg cyanidin 3-glucoside equivalents/g) and the highest anthocyanins recovery (96.3 ± 1.7%), while the MD:GA powders showed the highest values of total polyphenol content (5.70 ± 0.09 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), DPPH scavenging capacity (2.49 ± 0.02 mg gallic acid equivalents/g) and phenolics recovery (87.2 ± 1.1%). Furthermore, all the spray-dried powders exhibited low moisture content (<5.5%) and water activity (<0.40), as well as high solubility in water (>94%) and good flowability. Future prospects include evaluating the stability of the Andean blueberry juice powders during storage and exploring the formulation of new foods and beverages that incorporate these spray-dried powders.
UV-B Radiation Induced the Changes in the Amount of Amino Acids, Phenolics and Aroma Compounds in Vitis vinifera cv. Pinot Noir Berry under Field Conditions
Authors: Sun Meng , Jordan Brian , Creasy Glen , Zhu Yi-Fan
Published: June 2023

High UV-B radiation can challenge Pinot noir growth in the wine-making region of the Southern Hemisphere. The aim of this work was to determine UV-B effects on amino acids, phenolic composition and aroma compounds of Pinot noir fruit. Sunlight exposure with or without UV-B did not affect fruit production capacity, °Brix and total amino acids in the vineyard over the two years. This research reported increased contents of skin anthocyanin and skin total phenolics in berry skins under UV-B. The research showed that there were no changes in C6 compounds. Some monoterpenes concentrations were decreased by UV-B. The information also indicated how important leaf canopy management was for vineyard management. Therefore, UV radiation potentially affected fruit ripeness and crop load, and even stimulated the accumulation of phenolic compounds that may affect Pinot noir quality. This research reported that canopy management (UV-B exposure) may be a good way for vineyard management to increase the accumulation of anthocyanins and tannins in berry skins.
Influence of Different Drying Methods on Anthocyanins Composition and Antioxidant Activities of Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) Pericarps and LC-MS Analysis of the Active Extract
Authors: Nawawi Nur , Ijod Giroon , Abas Faridah , Ramli Nurul , Mohd Adzahan Noranizan , Mohamad Azman Ezzat
Published: June 2023

Mangosteen pericarps (MP) often end up as agricultural waste despite being rich in powerful natural antioxidants such as anthocyanins and xanthones. This study compared the effect of different drying processes and times on phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities of MP. Fresh MP were subjected to 36 and 48 h of freeze-drying (−44 ± 1 °C) and oven-drying (45 ± 1 °C), and 30 and 40 h of sun-drying (31 ± 3 °C). The samples were analyzed for anthocyanins composition, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant activities, and color characteristics. Analysis of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) with electrospray ionization identified two anthocyanins in MP: cyanidin-3-O-sophoroside and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside. Overall, the drying process, time, and their interactions significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the phenolic compounds, antioxidant activities, and color in MP extracts. Both freeze-drying after 36 h (FD36) and 48 h (FD48) possessed significantly (p < 0.05) higher total anthocyanins (2.1–2.2 mg/g) than other samples. However, FD36 was associated with significantly (p < 0.05) higher TPC (~94.05 mg GAE/g), TFC (~621.00 mg CE/g), and reducing power (~1154.50 μmol TE/g) compared to FD48. Moreover, FD36 is more efficient for industrial applications due to less time and energy consumption. Subsequently, obtained dried MP extracts could be further utilized as an alternative to synthetic food colorants.
Synthesis and Performance Evaluation of a Novel Nanoparticle Coupling Expanded Granule Plugging Agent
Authors: Li Xuejiao , Li Qi , Fu Meilong , Li Li , Su Lingyang , Wang Yingyang
Published: June 2023

This study focuses on the characteristics of fractured and vuggy high-temperature and high-salt reservoirs in the Tahe Oilfield. The Acrylamide/2-acrylamide-2-methylpropanesulfonic copolymer salt was selected as a polymer; the hydroquinone and hexamethylene tetramine was selected as the crosslinking agent with a ratio of 1:1; the nanoparticle SiO2 was selected, and its dosage was optimized to 0.3%; Additionally, a novel nanoparticle coupling polymer gel was independently synthesized. The surface of the gel was a three-dimensional network structure, with grids arranged in pieces and interlaced with each other, and the structure was very stable. The SiO2 nanoparticles were attached to the gel skeleton, forming effective coupling and enhancing the strength of the gel skeleton. To solve the problem of complex gel preparation and transportation, the novel gel is compressed, pelletized, and dried into expanded particles through industrial granulation, and the disadvantage of the rapid expansion of expanded particles is optimized through physical film coating treatment. Finally, a novel nanoparticle coupling expanded granule plugging agent was developed. Evaluation of the performance of the novel nanoparticle coupling expanded granule plugging agent. With an increase in temperature and mineralization, the expansion multiplier of granules decreases; aged under high-temperature and high-salt conditions for 30 days, the expansion multiplier of granules can still reach 3.5 times, the toughness index is 1.61, and the long-term stability of the granules can be good; the water plugging rate of granules is 97.84%, which is superior to other widely used particle-based plugging agents.
Synthesis and Performance Evaluation of Alginate-Coated Temperature-Sensitive Polymer Gel Microspheres
Authors: Song Zhaozheng , Hu Junhang , Liu Ping , Sun Yili
Published: June 2023

With the long-term water-flooding development of the reservoir, the non-homogeneity of the formation is increasing and the reservoir environment is deteriorating; the microspheres used for deep plugging have shown disadvantages, such as poor temperature and salt resistance and faster expansion. In this study, a polymeric microsphere was synthesized that is resistant to high temperature and high salt and can achieve slow expansion and slow release for deep migration. P(AA-AM-SA)@TiO2 polymer gel/inorganic nanoparticle microspheres were prepared by reversed-phase microemulsion polymerization using acrylamide (AM) and acrylic acid (AA) as monomers, 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH-570)-modified TiO2 as the inorganic core, and sodium alginate (SA) as a temperature-sensitive coating material. Through single-factor analysis of the polymerization process, the optimal synthesis conditions were determined as follows: the oil(Cyclohexane)-water volume ratio was 8:5, the emulsifier mass ratio (Span-80:Tween-80) was 3:1 (10 wt% of the total system amount), the stirring speed was 400 r/min, the reaction temperature was 60 °C, and the initiator (ammonium persulfate and sodium bisulfite) dosage was 0.6 wt%. The size of the dried polymer gel/inorganic nanoparticle microspheres prepared by the optimized synthesis conditions was 10~40 μm with uniform particle size. The observation of P(AA-AM-SA)@TiO2 microspheres reveals that the Ca elements are uniformly distributed on the microspheres, and FT-IR indicates that the synthesized product is the target product. TGA shows that the polymer gel/inorganic nanoparticle microspheres have better thermal stability after the addition of TiO2, with a larger mass loss at 390 °C, which can adapt to the medium-high permeability reservoir environment. The thermal and aqueous salinity resistance of the P(AA-AM-SA)@TiO2 microspheres was tested, and the cracking temperature of P(AA-AM-SA)@TiO2 microsphere temperature-sensitive material was 90 °C. It still has favorable water absorption and swelling performance under the sodium salt concentration of 2.5 × 104 mg/L and can tolerate calcium salt up to 2.0 × 104 mg/L. Plugging Performance Test results show that the microspheres have good injectability between the permeability of 1.23 and 2.35 μm2 and good plugging effect near the permeability of 2.20 μm2. At high temperature and high salinity, P(AA-AM-SA)@TiO2 microspheres have a remarkable effect on profile control and water shutoff, the plugging rate reaches 95.3%, and the oil recovery rate is increased by 12.89% compared with water flooding, achieving the effect of slow swelling and slow release.
Modulating the Viscoelastic Properties of Covalently Crosslinked Protein Hydrogels
Authors: Boni Rossana , Regan Lynne
Published: June 2023

Protein engineering allows for the programming of specific building blocks to form functional and novel materials with customisable physical properties suitable for tailored engineering applications. We have successfully designed and programmed engineered proteins to form covalent molecular networks with defined physical characteristics. Our hydrogel design incorporates the SpyTag (ST) peptide and SpyCatcher (SC) protein that spontaneously form covalent crosslinks upon mixing. This genetically encodable chemistry allowed us to easily incorporate two stiff and rod-like recombinant proteins in the hydrogels and modulate the resulting viscoelastic properties. We demonstrated how differences in the composition of the microscopic building blocks change the macroscopic viscoelastic properties of the hydrogels. We specifically investigated how the identity of the protein pairs, the molar ratio of ST:SC, and the concentration of the proteins influence the viscoelastic response of the hydrogels. By showing tuneable changes in protein hydrogel rheology, we increased the capabilities of synthetic biology to create novel materials, allowing engineering biology to interface with soft matter, tissue engineering, and material science.
Rheological Characteristics of Soluble Cress Seed Mucilage and β-Lactoglobulin Complexes with Salts Addition: Rheological Evidence of Structural Rearrangement
Authors: Taheri Afsaneh , Kashaninejad Mahdi , Tamaddon Ali Mohammad , Du Juan , Jafari Seid Mahdi
Published: June 2023

Functional, physicochemical, and rheological properties of protein–polysaccharide complexes are remarkably under the influence of the quality of solvent or cosolute in a food system. Here, a comprehensive description of the rheological properties and microstructural peculiarities of cress seed mucilage (CSM)-β-lactoglobulin (Blg) complexes are discussed in the presence of CaCl2 (2–10 mM), (CSM–Blg–Ca), and NaCl (10–100 mM) (CSM–Blg–Na). Our results on steady-flow and oscillatory measurements indicated that shear thinning properties can be fitted well by the Herschel–Bulkley model and by the formation of highly interconnected gel structures in the complexes, respectively. Analyzing the rheological and structural features simultaneously led to an understanding that formations of extra junctions and the rearrangement of the particles in the CSM–Blg–Ca could enhance elasticity and viscosity, as compared with the effect of CSM–Blg complex without salts. NaCl reduced the viscosity and dynamic rheological properties and intrinsic viscosity through the salt screening effect and dissociation of structure. Moreover, the compatibility and homogeneity of complexes were approved by dynamic rheometry based on the Cole–Cole plot supported by intrinsic viscosity and molecular parameters such as stiffness. The results outlined the importance of rheological properties as criteria for investigations that determine the strength of interaction while facilitating the fabrication of new structures in salt-containing foods that incorporate protein–polysaccharide complexes.
Ileocolic Anastomosis Dehiscence in Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Gomes Sara Lima , Santos Pedro Miguel Dias dos , Costa Pereira Joaquim , Martins Sandra F.
Published: June 2023

Background: Anastomotic leakage (AL) is one of the most feared complications in colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. Although many series have reported the general risk factors for AL, published studies focusing on ileocolic anastomosis are scarce. The main aim of this study was to identify potential risk factors associated with ileocolic anastomosis dehiscence in surgery for CRC. Methods: A total of 188 patients who underwent primary ileocolic anastomosis after elective CRC surgery in Braga’s Hospital from November of 2018 to February of 2022 were included. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify independent risk factors for AL. Results: AL occurred in 13 patients (6.9%), and about three-fourths of these patients required surgical re-intervention. The mortality rate was 5.3%. Diabetes mellitus, ASA score of ≥3, laparotomy or conversion to laparotomy approach, postoperative blood transfusion, and postoperative hypoalbuminemia were associated with an increased risk of AL. In the multivariable analysis, postoperative hypoalbuminemia (p = 0.018; OR: 0.281; CI: 0.098; 0.806) and shorter operating time (p = 0.038; OR: 0.985; CI: 0.972; 0.999) were independent risk factors for AL. Conclusions: Postoperative hypoalbuminemia and shorter operating time are independent risk factors for AL after ileocolic anastomosis.
Decision-Making Styles and Managerial Creativity of Nursing Managers in Saudi Arabia: A Multi-Center Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: AlAmer Naheel A.
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: Nursing managers as responsible personnel are required to think outside the box in order to make useful decisions using an appropriate style in a creative manner. This study aims to investigate the relationship between nursing managers’ decision-making styles and managerial creativity. (2) Methods: A multi-center cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 245 managers in five large government hospitals using self-administered questionnaires on managerial creativity and general decision-making styles. (3) Results: A significant relationship was found between rational, avoidant, and dependent styles and total managerial creativity. A positive correlation was present between the rational style and total managerial creativity and a negative correlation was found between avoidant, dependent, and spontaneous styles and total managerial creativity. According to a regression analysis, the rational style has a positive effect on managerial creativity, whereas the dependent and avoidant styles have a negative effect. (4) Conclusions: The majority of nursing managers in various hospitals throughout the kingdom are creative and almost all use rational and dependent decision-making styles, which are significantly related to managerial creativity. Thus, it is important to continue to conduct training programs on decision-making styles, especially the rational, dependent, and avoidant styles, for the top-, middle-, and low-level managers.
Type 2 Diabetes Patients’ Views of Local Pharmacists and Fulfilment with Pharmaceutical Diabetes Care in Syria’s Latakia Governorate: An Online Survey Research
Authors: Al Assaf Sarah , Kleiner Dénes , Zelkó Romána , Hankó Balázs
Published: June 2023

Assessing the attitudes of diabetic patients towards community-pharmacy services and determining the demand for new services could help monitor and evaluate the therapeutic response. This study aimed to evaluate type 2 diabetes patients’ satisfaction regarding pharmacy care in community pharmacies and shed a light on the reasons for diabetic patients’ non-adherence to treatments. An online survey was conducted on a random sample of patients (n = 196) at the national Diabetes Centre in Latakia, Syria, from April to November 2022. The questionnaire consisted of four primary parts: (1) demographic characteristics of responders, (2) patients’ therapeutic behaviors, (3) diabetes knowledge, and (4) the general level of satisfaction with pharmacy diabetes services. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. Around 89% of respondents were satisfied with the information provided by community pharmacists. The patients’ non-adherence showed a maximum as a function of the number of concomitantly taken medicines, which indicated that in most serious cases patients’ adherence was increasing. Overall, most patients were delighted with community pharmacists’ expertise and pharmacy services. This positive image allows pharmacists to expand their duties as healthcare providers in diabetes care, and increase the patient therapeutic adherence by performing a reconciliation of the patient’s medicines, which involves reviewing all patients’ drugs and identifying realistic solutions to their adherence issues.
Self-Rated Oral Health as a Valid Measure of Oral Health Status in Adults Living in Rural Australia
Authors: Atala-Acevedo Claudia , McGrath Roisin , Glenister Kristen , Capurro Daniel , Bourke Lisa , Simmons David , Morgan Mike , Mariño Rodrigo
Published: June 2023

It is unclear how well self-rated oral health (SROH) reflects actual oral health status in the rural Australian population. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the clinically assessed oral health status and SROH of adults living in rural Australia. The data were from 574 participants who took part in the Crossroads II cross-sectional study. Three trained and calibrated dentists evaluated the oral health status of participants based on WHO criteria. SROH was assessed with the question ‘Overall, how would you rate the health of your teeth and gums?’, with a score ranging from excellent = 5 to poor = 1. A logistic regression analysis (LRA) was performed, allowing us to assess factors associated with SROH. The mean age of participants was 59.2 years (SD 16.3), and 55.3% were female. The key results from the LRA show poorer SROH in those with more missing teeth (OR = 1.05; 95% CI; 1.01–1.08), more decayed teeth (OR = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.11–1.46), and more significant clinical attachment loss of periodontal tissue (6mm or more) (OR = 2.63; 95% CI: 1.29–5.38). This study found an association between negative SROH and clinical indicators used to measure poor oral health status, suggesting that self-rated oral health is an indicator of oral health status. When planning dental healthcare programs, self-reported oral health should be considered a proxy measure for oral health status.
Is Rejection, Parental Abandonment or Neglect a Trigger for Higher Perceived Shame and Guilt in Adolescents?
Authors: Marici Marius , Clipa Otilia , Runcan Remus , Pîrghie Loredana
Published: June 2023

Theories of development point out that childhood experiences are relevant across the lifespan, and that the parent-child relationship is essential for a child’s physical and psychological wellbeing. The aim of this study is to investigate whether parental abandonment influences self-conscious emotions such as guilt and shame. This quasi-experiment included 230 adolescents and teenagers (M = 17.1, SD = 1.82), and data were collected via a self-reported questionnaire administered online. We used the Guilt Inventory, the Experience of Shame Scale, the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, and the Parental Acceptance/Rejection Questionnaire. Results indicated that the child’s environment was significantly associated with feelings of shame. Abuse is associated with both guilt and shame, while paternal rejection is associated with guilt. The environment in which children and teenagers develop is associated with how they perceive themselves in relation to others. This study underlines the importance of considering child development conditions and the paramount importance of social work assistance for abandoned children and teenagers.
Understanding the Experiences of Clinicians Accessing Electronic Databases to Search for Evidence on Pain Management Using a Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Arumugam Vanitha , MacDermid Joy C. , Walton Dave , Grewal Ruby
Published: June 2023

The act of searching and retrieving evidence falls under the second step of the EBP process—tracking down the best evidence. The purpose of this study is to understand the competencies of clinicians accessing electronic databases to search for evidence on pain management using a mixed methods approach. Thirty-seven healthcare professionals (14 occupational therapists, 13 physical therapists, 8 nurses, and 2 psychologists) who are actively involved in pain management were included. This study involved two parts (a qualitative and a quantitative part) that ran in parallel. Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide (qualitative data); data were transcribed verbatim. During the interview, participants were evaluated in comparison to a set of pre-determined practice competencies using a chart-stimulated recall (CSR) technique (quantitative data). CSR was scored on a 7-point Likert scale. Coding was completed by two raters; themes across each of the competencies were integrated by three raters. Seven themes evolved out of the qualitative responses to these competencies: formulating a research question, sources of evidence accessed, search strategy, refining the yield, barriers and facilitators, clinical decision making, and knowledge and awareness about appraising the quality of evidence. The qualitative results informed an understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in the competencies evaluated. In conclusion, using a mixed methods approach, we found that clinicians were performing well with their basic literature review skills, but when it came to advanced skills like using Boolean operators, critical appraisal and finding levels of evidence they seem to require more training.
Flat Magnetic Stimulation for Stress Urinary Incontinence: A 3-Month Follow-Up Study
Authors: Barba Marta , Cola Alice , Rezzan Giorgia , Costa Clarissa , Melocchi Tomaso , De Vicari Desirèe , Terzoni Stefano , Frigerio Matteo , Maruccia Serena
Published: June 2023

Background: flat magnetic stimulation is based on a stimulation produced by electromagnetic fields with a homogenous profile. Patients with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) can take advantage of this treatment. We aimed to evaluate medium-term subjective, objective, and quality-of-life outcomes in patients with stress urinary incontinence to evaluate possible maintenance schedules. Methods: a prospective evaluation through the administration of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ7), and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was performed at three different time points: at the baseline (T0), at the end of treatment (T1), and at 3-month follow-up (T2). The stress test and the Patient Global Impression of Improvement questionnaire (PGI-I) defined objective and subjective outcomes, respectively. Results: 25 consecutive patients were enrolled. A statistically significant reduction in the IIQ7 and ICIQ-SF scores was noticed at T1 returned to levels comparable to the baseline at T2. However, objective improvement remained significant even at a 3-month follow-up. Moreover, the PGI-I scores at T1 and T2 were comparable, demonstrating stable subjective satisfaction. Conclusion: despite a certain persistence of the objective and subjective continence improvement, the urinary-related quality of life decreases and returns to baseline values three months after the end of flat magnetic stimulation. These findings indicate that a further cycle of treatment is probably indicated after 3 months since benefits are only partially maintained after this timespan.
Digital Health Training, Attitudes and Intentions to Use It among Romanian Medical Students: A Study Performed during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lotrean Lucia Maria , Sabo Simina Antonia
Published: June 2023

Introduction: This study focuses on medical students from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, and has three objectives. First, it evaluates the opinions of medical students regarding their previous training as well as their needs for future training in the field of digital health. Second, it assesses their attitudes regarding digital health and their intention to use digital tools as physicians. Lastly, the interrelationship between these issues as well as the socio-demographic factors which influence them are investigated. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey was performed during June–August 2021 among fifth and sixth year students of the Faculty of Medicine from the Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Anonymous online questionnaires were used which were filled in by 306 students. Results: Less than half of the participating students declared that they benefited from training or different practical examples during medical education regarding the use of digital tools in different medical areas, while the majority said that they would like to receive more training in the field of digital health. A total of 58.2% said that they totally agree with the introduction of a formal training in the medical curricula regarding digital health. Many students declared positive attitudes toward the use of digital tools in different domains within the medical field and intention to use digital tools as physicians; several differences were noted, including gender, year of study, type of domain, and previous training with regard to the use of digital tools in those domains. Moreover, the need for future training and the desire for the introduction of a formal training program into the medical curricula with regard to this field were stronger among those with more positive attitudes and higher intentions to use digital tools in their medical activity. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study from Romania which investigated the training, attitudes, and intentions regarding the use of digital health among Romanian medical students, and offers valuable information to guide the education of medical students.
Functional Capacity of Noninstitutionalized Older Adults from Northwest Mexico: Reference Values
Authors: Núñez-Othón Gabriel , Romero-Pérez Ena Monserrat , Camberos Néstor Antonio , Horta-Gim Mario Alberto , Tánori-Tapia José Manuel , de Paz José Antonio
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Physical capacity (PC) is a strong determinant of health, quality of life, and functional independence in older adults. Having reference values for PC specific to a particular region allows for a contextual interpretation of an individual’s level. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to describe the evolution of key aspects of PC during the aging process and provide reference values for the major components of health-related PC for the older adult population in Northwest Mexico. Methods: A total of 550 independent older adults (60–84 years, 70% women) from the city of Hermosillo (Sonora, Mexico) were included between January and June 2019. PC was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test Battery (SFTB) and grip-strength test. Reference values were established for 5-year age groups, providing percentile values at 10, 25, 50, 75, and 90. The percentage decrease in functional capacity with aging was determined via a linear regression analysis of age against the percentage value of each subject relative to the average value of 60-year-old individuals of the same sex. Results: Statistically significant differences in the results between men and women within the same age group were few and inconsistent, except for handgrip strength, which was lower in women across all age groups. The functional level, with respect to reference values for each age and sex group, was similar between men and women. The most pronounced functional decline during the aging period occurs between 70 and 80 years of age. The various tests generally show an annual percentage loss of approximately 1% from 60 years of age. Conclusions: This is the first study in Mexico that provides reference values for physical capacity using the Senior Fitness Test Battery. In general, older adults—both men and women—show similar functional levels with respect to their respective reference values. In general, an annual decline of 1% from the age of 60 years occurs.
Impact of Care Interventions on the Survival of Patients with Cardiac Chest Pain
Authors: Meneguin Silmara , Pollo Camila Fernandes , Jolo Murillo Fernando , Sartori Maria Marcia Pereira , de Morais José Fausto , de Oliveira Cesar
Published: June 2023

Background: Chest pain is considered the second most frequent complaint among patients seeking emergency services. However, there is limited information in the literature about how the care provided to patients with chest pain, when being attended to in the emergency room, influences their clinical outcomes. Aims: To assess the relationship between care interventions performed on patients with cardiac chest pain and their immediate and late clinical outcomes and to identify which care interventions were essential to survival. Methods: In this retrospective study. We analyzed 153 medical records of patients presenting with chest pain at an emergency service center, São Paulo, Brazil. Participants were divided into two groups: (G1) remained hospitalized for a maximum of 24 h and (G2) remained hospitalized for between 25 h and 30 days. Results: Most of the participants were male 99 (64.7%), with a mean age of 63.2 years. The interventions central venous catheter, non-invasive blood pressure monitoring, pulse oximetry, and monitoring peripheral perfusion were commonly associated with survival at 24 h and 30 days. Advanced cardiovascular life support and basic support life (p = 0.0145; OR = 8053; 95% CI = 1385–46,833), blood transfusion (p < 0.0077; OR = 34,367; 95% CI = 6489–182,106), central venous catheter (p < 0.0001; OR = 7.69: 95% CI 1853–31,905), and monitoring peripheral perfusion (p < 0.0001; OR = 6835; 95% CI 1349–34,634) were independently associated with survival at 30 days by Cox Regression. Conclusions: Even though there have been many technological advances over the past decades, this study demonstrated that immediate and long-term survival depended on interventions received in an emergency room for many patients.