bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loading Performance of a Novel Shearer Drum Applied to Thin Coal Seams
Authors: Gao Kuidong , Zhang Xiaodi , Sun Liqing , Zeng Qingliang , Liu Zhihai
Published: January 2021

The poor loading performance of shearer drums restricts the development and production efficiency of coal in thin coal seams. Changing operation and structural parameters can improve the drum’s loading performance to some extent, but the effect is not obvious. A two-segment differential rotational speed drum (TDRSD) was proposed after analyzing the drum’s influence mechanism on coal particles. To further reveal the drum’s coal loading principle, the velocity, particles distribution, and loading rate were analyzed. The effect of the matching relationship of the rotational speed and helix angle between the front and rear drum are also discussed. The results show that a lower front drum rotational speed had a positive impact on improving the loading performance, and the loading rate first increases and then decreases with the increase in rear drum rotational speed. The optimal loading performance was obtained in the range 60–67.5 rpm. The front drum’s helix angle had no evident effect on loading performance, and the loading rate increase with the increase in the rear drum’s helix angle. The results provide a reference and guidance for operation parameters selection, structure design, and drum optimization.
Analysis of Crack Initiation and Propagation Thresholds of Inclined Cracks under High-Pressure Grouting in Ordovician Limestone
Authors: Xu Bin , Dong Shuning , Yin Shangxian , Li Shuxia , Xu Yanling , Dai Zhenxue
Published: January 2021

Control of the grouting pressure within the critical grouting pressure for crack propagation in Ordovician limestone can not only ensure grout penetration length, but also prevent the risk of creating an artificial water channel. Based on the fracture mechanics theory, a formula was proposed to calculate the critical grouting pressure of mixed mode I-II cracks in Ordovician limestone. The necessary conditions for tilted crack opening, the rationality of the existing empirical value of the maximum allowable grouting pressure was investigated based on the mechanical model. The RFPA2D-Flow numerical simulation software was used to evaluate the deduced theory. The research results show that the deduced theoretical calculation formula of the critical grouting pressure agrees with the numerical simulation results; when the mixed mode I-II fracture initiation occurs, the grouting pressure exceeds the perpendicular stress of the overlying rock; the greater the density of the overlying rock mass, the greater the value of grouting pressure for fracture initiation; when the side pressure coefficient was ≥1, crack dip angle increased and the grouting pressure for fracture initiation tended to decrease; and the empirical grouting pressure at the maximum allowable grouting pressure is 2.0–2.5 pw, which will not cause propagation and failure of the existing crack.
Impact of Conditioning Substances and Filtration Pressure on Dewatering Efficiency of Sewage Sludge
Authors: Kamizela Tomasz , Kowalczyk Mariusz
Published: January 2021

Sludge dewatering is a key element in sludge’s processing and management. Solid-phase separation, sludge volume reduction and the separation of a high-quality supernatant are the main tasks of the dewatering devices. The effectiveness of this task, in turn, results from the selection of the dewatering method and conditioning of the sludge before dewatering. The aim of the research was to determine the influence of conditioning substances (polyelectrolyte, fly ash and zeolite) on the efficiency of dewatering at variable filtration pressure. The use of polyelectrolyte in sludge conditioning was a solution that increased the efficiency of the filtration process. On the contrary, the use of structure-forming substances (fly ash and zeolite) slows the process but reduces the hydration of the filter cake. The same trends were obtained in dual conditioning combining dosing of polyelectrolyte and ash or zeolite. It was also shown that the dewatering efficiency of conditioned sludge with these two different substances (ash and zeolite) was the same. The use of zeolite in independent or dual conditioning was important for the quality of the supernatant.
The Influence of the Window Width on FRA Assessment with Numerical Indices
Authors: Banaszak Szymon , Kornatowski Eugeniusz , Szoka Wojciech
Published: January 2021

Frequency response analysis is a method used in transformer diagnostics for the detection of mechanical faults or short-circuits in windings. The interpretation of test results is often performed with the application of numerical indices. However, usually these indices are used for the whole frequency range of the recorded data, returning a single number. Such an approach is inaccurate and may lead to mistakes in the interpretation. An alternative quality assessment is based on the estimation of the local values of the quality index with the moving window method. In this paper, the authors analyse the influence of the width of the input data window for four numerical indices. The analysis is based on the data measured on the transformer with deformations introduced into the winding and also for a 10 MVA transformer measured under industrial conditions. For the first unit the analysis is performed for various window widths and for various extents of the deformation, while in the case of the second the real differences between the frequency response curves are being analysed. On the basis of the results it was found that the choice of the data window width significantly influences the quality of the analysis results and the rules for elements number selection differ for various numerical indices.
Characteristic Analysis and Indexing of Multimachine Transient Stabilization Using Virtual Synchronous Generator Control
Authors: Hirase Yuko , Uezaki Kazusa , Orihara Dai , Kikusato Hiroshi , Hashimoto Jun
Published: January 2021

As distributed power sources via grid-connected inverters equipped with functions to support system stabilization are being rapidly introduced, individual systems are becoming more complex, making the quantification and evaluation of the stabilizing functions difficult. Therefore, to introduce distributed power sources and achieve stable system operation, a system should be reduced to a necessary but sufficient size in order to enable the quantification of its behavior supported by transient theory. In this study, a system in which multiple distributed power supplies equipped with virtual synchronous generator control are connected is contracted to a two-machine system: a main power supply and all other power supplies. The mechanical torque of each power supply is mathematically decomposed into inertia, damping, synchronization torques, and the governor effect. The system frequency deviations determined by these elements are quantitatively indexed using MATLAB/Simulink. The quantification index displayed in three-dimensioned graphs illustrates the relationships between the various equipment constants of the main power supply, the control variables of the grid-connected inverter control, and the transient time series. Moreover, a stability analysis is performed in both the time and frequency domains.
Factors Affecting Alkali Activation of Laterite Acid Leaching Residues
Authors: Komnitsas Konstantinos , Bartzas Georgios , Karmali Vasiliki , Petrakis Evangelos
Published: January 2021

In this experimental study, the alkali activation of acid leaching residues using a mixture of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and alkaline sodium silicate solution (Na2SiO3) as activators is investigated. The residues were also calcined at 800 and 1000 °C for 2 h or mixed with metakaolin (MK) in order to increase their reactivity. The effect of several parameters, namely the H2O/Na2O and SiO2/Na2O ratios present in the activating solution, the pre–curing time (4–24 h), the curing temperature (40–80 °C), the curing time (24 or 48 h), and the ageing period (7–28 days) on the properties of the produced alkali activated materials (AAMs), including compressive strength, porosity, water absorption, and density, was explored. Analytical techniques, namely X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and elemental mapping analysis were used for the identification of the morphology and structure of the final products. The experimental results show that the laterite acid leaching residues cannot be alkali activated in an unaltered state, and the compressive strength of the produced AAMs barely reaches 1.4 MPa, while the mixing of the residues with 10 wt% metakaolin results in noticeably higher compressive strength (41 MPa). Moreover, the calcination of residues at 800 and 1000 °C has practically no beneficial effect on alkali activation. Alkali activated materials produced under the optimum synthesis conditions were subjected to high temperature firing for 2 h and immersed in distilled water or acidic solution (1 mol L−1 HCl) for 7 and 30 days in order to assess their structural integrity under different environmental conditions. This study explores the potential of alkali activation of laterite leaching residues amended with the addition of metakaolin for the production of AAMS that can be used as binders or in several construction applications in order to enable their valorization and also improve the environmental sustainability of the metallurgical sector.
Relationship between Forest Ecophysiology and Environment
Authors: Tognetti Roberto , Marshall John D.
Published: January 2021

Although aspects of forest ecophysiology and forest environments have received considerable attention from research scientists in the last three decades, assessment of implications for meeting the climate targets and international agreements is still a matter of debate [...]
Comparing Three Types of Mandarin Powders Prepared via Microfluidic-Jet Spray Drying: Physical Properties, Phenolic Retention and Volatile Profiling
Authors: Chen Xiao , Ting Joanna Le Hoong , Peng Yaoyao , Tangjaidee Pipat , Zhu Yongchao , Li Qili , Shan Yang , Quek Siew Young
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to offer an alternative way for delivering the benefits of the mandarin fruit juice to consumers via spray drying microencapsulation. Two mandarin cultivars, Afourer (A) and Richard Special (RS), were studied. Three types of juice sample were prepared, i.e., the whole fruit juice (A3 & RS3), the flavedo-removed fruit juice (A2 & RS2), and the peel-removed fruit juice (A1 & RS1) samples. Gum Acacia and maltodextrin (ratio of 1:1, w/w) were chosen as wall matrices for aiding the drying of the juice samples while using a microfluidic-jet spray dryer. The properties of the fruit powder (colour, water activity, bulk/trapped density, solubility, hygroscopicity, morphology) and the retention of major phytochemicals (i.e., phenolic and volatile compounds) were examined. The results showed that the powders produced from the whole fruit juices (A3 and RS3) gave higher yellow colour with a regular winkled surface than other powders (A1 & RS1, and A2 & RS2). The water activity of mandarin powders was in a range of 0.14 to 0.25, and the solubility was around 74% with no significant difference among all of the powders. The whole fruit powders had a significantly higher concentration of phenolic compounds (A3, 1023 µg/100 mg vs. A2, 809 µg/100 mg vs. A1, 653 µg/100 mg) and aroma compounds (A3, 775,558 µg/L vs. A2, 125,617 µg/L vs. A1, 12,590 µg/L). This study contributed to the delivery of phenolic and flavour compounds of the mandarin fruits, at the same time minimising waste generation during processing. It also gave insight into the production of spray-dried powders from the whole mandarin fruits.
Quantitative and Comparative Investigation of Plasmalogen Species in Daily Foodstuffs
Authors: Wu Yue , Chen Zhen , Jia Jiaping , Chiba Hitoshi , Hui Shu-Ping
Published: January 2021

Plasmalogens are an animal-derived functional phospholipid increasingly known as a safe and effective nutritional ingredient, however, the quantitation and comparison of plasmalogen species in foods is limited. In the present work, determination methods for dietary plasmalogens using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy under positive and negative ionization modes were compared. The negative-mode method, which showed better selectivity, sensitivity, and accuracy, was then applied in 14 kinds of livestock, poultry, and seafood samples. Livestock and poultry showed abundant total plasmalogen (530.83–944.94 nmol/g), higher than fish (46.08–399.75 nmol/g) and mollusk (10.00–384.76 nmol/g). While fish and mollusk samples expressed healthier fatty acyl composition, with higher eicosapentaenoyl and more beneficial n-6/n-3 ratio than the land animal meats, especially for squid and octopus, with eicosapentaenoyl of 98.4% and 94.5%, respectively. The correlations among plasmalogen species varied in different foodstuffs with distinguishing patterns, suggesting the customizable strategies for achieving targeted plasmalogen species. These findings not only provided fundamental comparison of plasmalogen among daily foodstuffs, but also contributed to extend the dietary plasmalogen sources for health food development.
Screening, Identification, and Quantification of Nutritional Components and Phytochemicals in Foodstuffs
Authors: Donno Dario
Published: January 2021

Foods confer many health-promoting benefits to humans for the treatment/prevention of different diseases [...]
Probiotic Effects against Virus Infections: New Weapons for an Old War
Authors: Lopez-Santamarina Aroa , Lamas Alexandre , del Carmen Mondragón Alicia , Cardelle-Cobas Alejandra , Regal Patricia , Rodriguez-Avila José Antonio , Miranda José Manuel , Franco Carlos Manuel , Cepeda Alberto
Published: January 2021

This review aimed to gather the available literature investigating the effects of probiotics against the most common viral infections using in vitro trials in cell lines and in vivo clinical trials in both experimental animals and humans. Probiotics were employed to prevent and reduce symptoms of infections caused by common viruses, especially respiratory tract viruses, but also for viral digestive infections (such as rotavirus, coronavirus, or norovirus) and other viral infections (such as viruses that cause hepatitis, human papillomavirus, human immunodeficiency virus, and herpes simplex virus). Different probiotics have been studied to see their possible effect against the abovementioned viruses, among which different Lactobacillus species, Bifidobacterium, Clostridium, Enterococcus, and Streptococcus can be highlighted. In many cases, mixtures of various probiotic strains were used. Although the results obtained did not show similar results, in most cases, probiotic supplementation improved both barrier and biochemical immune responses, decreased susceptibility to viral infections, and enhanced the effects of concomitant vaccines. Works collected in this review show a beneficial effect of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of different viral infections. We found interesting results related to the prevention of viral infections, reduction of the duration of diseases, and decrease of symptoms.
The Effect of Pre-Treatment (Blanching, Ultrasound and Freezing) on Quality of Freeze-Dried Red Beets
Authors: Ciurzyńska Agnieszka , Falacińska Julita , Kowalska Hanna , Kowalska Jolanta , Galus Sabina , Marzec Agata , Domian Ewa
Published: January 2021

This paper presents the influence of blanching, ultrasonic processing and freezing conditions on selected physical properties of freeze-dried red beet, i.e., water activity, structure, porosity and shrinkage. Red beets subjected to a selected pre-treatment using its various parameters were frozen by three methods and then freeze-dried. Ultrasound reduced the water activity of samples. Blanching in water reduced shrinkage and improved porosity. In addition to the type of pre-treatment applied, the quality was also affected by freezing conditions before drying. Combined freezing resulted in the highest shrinkage and the lowest porosity and water activity. Slowly frozen samples were characterized by the best porosity.
Sensory Features, Liking and Emotions of Consumers towards Classical, Molecular and Note by Note Foods
Authors: Głuchowski Artur , Czarniecka-Skubina Ewa , Kostyra Eliza , Wasiak-Zys Grażyna , Bylinka Kacper
Published: January 2021

Modern cuisine served at top-end restaurants attempts to attract customers, who increasingly demand new flavor, pleasure and fun. The materials were six dishes prepared using lemon or tomatoes and made in the traditional (classical), molecular and Note by Note (NbN) versions. The study explores sensory characteristics, consumer liking of key attributes, their declared sensations and emotions, as well as consumers’ facial expressions responding to the dishes. These objectives were investigated by descriptive quantitative analysis and consumer tests. Tests included a 9-point hedonic scale for degree of liking a dish, Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) for declared sensations and FaceReader for facial expressions. The influence of factors associated with consumer attitudes toward new food and willingness to try the dishes in the future were also determined. It was stated that the product profiles represent different sensory characteristics due to the technology of food production and the ingredients used. The food neophobia and consumer innovativeness had a significant (p ≤ 0.05) effect on liking. The odor-, flavor-, texture- and overall-liking of the NbN dishes were lower than that of traditional versions but did not vary from scores for molecular samples. The expected liking of NbN dishes was higher than experienced-liking. Traditional and modern products differed in CATA terms. Classical dishes were perceived by consumers as more tasty, traditional and typical while modern cuisine dishes were perceived as more surprising, intriguing, innovative and trendy. Mimic expressions assessment by FaceReader showed similar trends in some emotions in both classical dishes and separate temporal patterns in modern products.
Proteins Derived from the Dairy Losses and By-Products as Raw Materials for Non-Food Applications
Authors: Costa Catarina , Azoia Nuno G. , Coelho Lorena , Freixo Ricardo , Batista Patrícia , Pintado Manuela
Published: January 2021

The disposal of a high volume of waste-containing proteins is becoming increasingly challenging in a society that is aware of what is happening in the environment. The dairy industry generates several by-products that contain vast amounts of compounds, including proteins that are of industrial importance and for which new uses are being sought. This article provides a comprehensive review of the potential of the valorisation of proteins that can be recovered by chemical and/or physical processes from protein-containing milk by-products or milk surplus, particularly whey proteins or caseins. Whey proteins and casein characteristics, and applications in non-food industries, with special emphasis on the textile industry, packaging and biomedical, are reported in this review, in order to provide knowledge and raise awareness of the sustainability of these proteins to potentiate new opportunities in a circular economy context.
Production and Characterization of a Novel Gluten-Free Fermented Beverage Based on Sprouted Oat Flour
Authors: Aparicio-García Natalia , Martínez-Villaluenga Cristina , Frias Juana , Peñas Elena
Published: January 2021

This study investigates the use of sprouted oat flour as a substrate to develop a novel gluten-free beverage by fermentation with a probiotic (Lactobacillus plantarum WCFS1) starter culture. Physicochemical, microbiological, nutritional and sensory properties of sprouted oat fermented beverage (SOFB) were characterized. After fermentation for 4 h, SOFB exhibited an acidity of 0.42 g lactic acid/100 mL, contents of lactic and acetic acids of 1.6 and 0.09 g/L, respectively, and high viable counts of probiotic starter culture (8.9 Log CFU/mL). Furthermore, SOFB was a good source of protein (1.7 g/100 mL), β-glucan (79 mg/100 mL), thiamine (676 μg/100 mL), riboflavin (28.1 μg/100 mL) and phenolic compounds (61.4 mg GAE/100 mL), and had a high antioxidant potential (164.3 mg TE/100 mL). Spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms were not detected in SOFB. The sensory attributes evaluated received scores higher than 6 in a 9-point hedonic scale, indicating that SOFB was well accepted by panelists. Storage of SOFB at 4 °C for 20 days maintained L. plantarum viability and a good microbial quality and did not substantially affect β-glucan content. SOFB fulfils current consumer demands regarding natural and wholesome plant-based foods.
The Identification of a Novel Fucosidosis-Associated FUCA1 Mutation: A Case of a 5-Year-Old Polish Girl with Two Additional Rare Chromosomal Aberrations and Affected DNA Methylation Patterns
Authors: Domin Agnieszka , Zabek Tomasz , Kwiatkowska Aleksandra , Szmatola Tomasz , Deregowska Anna , Lewinska Anna , Mazur Artur , Wnuk Maciej
Published: January 2021

Fucosidosis is a rare neurodegenerative autosomal recessive disorder, which manifests as progressive neurological and psychomotor deterioration, growth retardation, skin and skeletal abnormalities, intellectual disability and coarsening of facial features. It is caused by biallelic mutations in FUCA1 encoding the α-L-fucosidase enzyme, which in turn is responsible for degradation of fucose-containing glycoproteins and glycolipids. FUCA1 mutations lead to severe reduction or even loss of α-L-fucosidase enzyme activity. This results in incomplete breakdown of fucose-containing compounds leading to their deposition in different tissues and, consequently, disease progression. To date, 36 pathogenic variants in FUCA1 associated with fucosidosis have been documented. Among these are three splice site variants. Here, we report a novel fucosidosis-related 9-base-pair deletion (NG_013346.1:g.10233_10241delACAGGTAAG) affecting the exon 3/intron 3 junction within a FUCA1 sequence. This novel pathogenic variant was identified in a five-year-old Polish girl with a well-defined pattern of fucosidosis symptoms. Since it is postulated that other genetic, nongenetic or environmental factors can also contribute to fucosidosis pathogenesis, we performed further analysis and found two rare de novo chromosomal aberrations in the girl’s genome involving a 15q11.1-11.2 microdeletion and an Xq22.2 gain. These abnormalities were associated with genome-wide changes in DNA methylation status in the epigenome of blood cells.
Meta-Analysis of Mutations in ALOX12B or ALOXE3 Identified in a Large Cohort of 224 Patients
Authors: Hotz Alrun , Kopp Julia , Bourrat Emmanuelle , Oji Vinzenz , Komlosi Katalin , Giehl Kathrin , Bouadjar Bakar , Bygum Anette , Tantcheva-Poor Iliana , Hellström Pigg Maritta , Has Cristina , Yang Zhou , Irvine Alan D. , Betz Regina C. , Zambruno Giovanna , Tadini Gianluca , Süßmuth Kira , Gruber Robert , Schmuth Matthias , Mazereeuw-Hautier Juliette , Jonca Natalie , Guez Sophie , Brena Michela , Hernandez-Martin Angela , van den Akker Peter , Bolling Maria C. , Hannula-Jouppi Katariina , Zimmer Andreas D. , Alter Svenja , Vahlquist Anders , Fischer Judith
Published: January 2021

The autosomal recessive congenital ichthyoses (ARCI) are a nonsyndromic group of cornification disorders that includes lamellar ichthyosis, congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma, and harlequin ichthyosis. To date mutations in ten genes have been identified to cause ARCI: TGM1, ALOX12B, ALOXE3, NIPAL4, CYP4F22, ABCA12, PNPLA1, CERS3, SDR9C7, and SULT2B1. The main focus of this report is the mutational spectrum of the genes ALOX12B and ALOXE3, which encode the epidermal lipoxygenases arachidonate 12-lipoxygenase, i.e., 12R type (12R-LOX), and the epidermis-type lipoxygenase-3 (eLOX3), respectively. Deficiency of 12R-LOX and eLOX3 disrupts the epidermal barrier function and leads to an abnormal epidermal differentiation. The type and the position of the mutations may influence the ARCI phenotype; most patients present with a mild erythrodermic ichthyosis, and only few individuals show severe erythroderma. To date, 88 pathogenic mutations in ALOX12B and 27 pathogenic mutations in ALOXE3 have been reported in the literature. Here, we presented a large cohort of 224 genetically characterized ARCI patients who carried mutations in these genes. We added 74 novel mutations in ALOX12B and 25 novel mutations in ALOXE3. We investigated the spectrum of mutations in ALOX12B and ALOXE3 in our cohort and additionally in the published mutations, the distribution of these mutations within the gene and gene domains, and potential hotspots and recurrent mutations.
Nuclear Receptors and Development of Marine Invertebrates
Authors: Miglioli Angelica , Canesi Laura , Gomes Isa D. L. , Schubert Michael , Dumollard Rémi
Published: January 2021

Nuclear Receptors (NRs) are a superfamily of transcription factors specific to metazoans that have the unique ability to directly translate the message of a signaling molecule into a transcriptional response. In vertebrates, NRs are pivotal players in countless processes of both embryonic and adult physiology, with embryonic development being one of the most dynamic periods of NR activity. Accumulating evidence suggests that NR signaling is also a major regulator of development in marine invertebrates, although ligands and transactivation dynamics are not necessarily conserved with respect to vertebrates. The explosion of genome sequencing projects and the interpretation of the resulting data in a phylogenetic context allowed significant progress toward an understanding of NR superfamily evolution, both in terms of molecular activities and developmental functions. In this context, marine invertebrates have been crucial for characterizing the ancestral states of NR-ligand interactions, further strengthening the importance of these organisms in the field of evolutionary developmental biology.
The Cenozoic Malaguide Basin from Sierra Espuña (Murcia, S Spain): An Example of Geological Heritage
Authors: Moliner-Aznar Santiago , Martín-Martín Manuel , Rodríguez-Estrella Tomás , Romero-Sánchez Gregorio
Published: January 2021

The Cenozoic Malaguide Basin from Sierra Espuña (Internal Betic Zone, S Spain) due to the quality of outcropping, areal representation, and continuity in the sedimentation can be considered a key-basin. In the last 30 years, a large number of studies with very different methodological approaches have been done in the area. Models indicate an evolution from passive margin to wedge-top basin from Late Cretaceous to Early Miocene. Sedimentation changes from limestone platforms with scarce terrigenous inputs, during the Paleocene to Early Oligocene, to the deep basin with huge supplies of turbidite sandstones and conglomerates during the Late Oligocene to Early Miocene. The area now appears structured as an antiformal stack with evidence of synsedimentary tectonics. The Cenozoic tectono-sedimentary basin evolution is related to three phases: (1) flexural tectonics during most of the Paleogene times to create the basin; (2) fault and fold compartmentation of the basin with the creation of structural highs and subsiding areas related to blind-fault-propagation folds, deforming the basin from south to north during Late Oligocene to Early Aquitanian times; (3) thin-skin thrusting tectonics when the basin began to be eroded during the Late Aquitanian-Burdigalian. In recent times some works on the geological heritage of the area have been performed trying to diffuse different geological aspects of the sector to the general public. A review of the studies performed and the revisiting of the area allow proposing different key-outcrops to follow the tectono-sedimentary evolution of the Cenozoic basin from this area. Eight sites of geological interest have been selected (Cretaceous-Cenozoic boundary, Paleocene Mula Fm, Lower Eocene Espuña-Valdelaparra Fms, Middle Eocene Malvariche-Cánovas Fms, Lowermost Oligocene As Fm, Upper Oligocene-Lower Aquitanian Bosque Fm, Upper Oligocene-Aquitanian Río Pliego Fm, Burdigalian El Niño Fm) and an evaluation has been performed to obtain four parameters: the scientific value, the educational and touristic potential, and the degradation risk. The firsts three parameters obtained values above 50 being considered of “high” or “very high” interest (“very high” in most of the cases). The last parameter shows always values below 50 indicating a “moderate” or “low” risk of degradation. The obtained values allow us considering the tectono-sedimentary evolution of this basin worthy of being proposed as a geological heritage.
Retrospect: The Outbreak Evaluation of COVID-19 in Wuhan District of China
Authors: Zhou Yimin , Chen Zuguo , Wu Xiangdong , Tian Zengwu , Ye Lingjian , Zheng Leyi
Published: January 2021

There were 27 novel coronavirus pneumonia cases found in Wuhan, China in December 2019, named as 2019-nCoV temporarily and COVID-19 formally by the World Health Organization (WHO) on the 11 February 2020. In December 2019 and January 2020, COVID-19 has spread on a large scale among the population, which brought terrible disaster to the life and property of the Chinese people. In this paper, we analyze the features and pattern of the virus transmission. Considering the influence of indirect transmission, a conscious-based Susceptible-Exposed-Infective-Recovered (SEIR) (C-SEIR) model is proposed, and the difference equation is used to establish the model. We simulated the C-SEIR model and key important parameters. The results show that (1) increasing people’s awareness of the virus can effectively reduce the spread of the virus; (2) as the capability and possibility of indirect infection increases, the proportion of people being infected will also increase; (3) the increased cure rate can effectively reduce the number of infected people. Then, the virus transmission can be modelled and used for the inflexion and extinction period of pandemic development so as to provide theoretical support for the Chinese government in the decision-making of pandemic prevention and recovery of economic production. Further, this study has demonstrated the effectiveness of the prevention measures taken by the Chinese government such as multi-level administrative district isolation and public health awareness.
River Flow Alterations Caused by Intense Anthropogenic Uses and Future Climate Variability Implications in the Balkans
Authors: Papadaki Christina , Dimitriou Elias
Published: January 2021

River flow alterations, caused by climate variability/change and intense anthropogenic uses (e.g., flow regulation by dams) are considered among the main global challenges of which hydrologists should be dealing with. For the purpose of this study, environmental flow and potential hydrological alterations are made for the extended Drin river basin, with limited historical hydrological information available. To overcome this limitation environmental flow assessment is made using simulated streamflow data from a watershed hydrological model. Descriptive statistics applied to streamflow values indicate that median monthly flows with no anthropogenic uses are consistently greater than those with anthropogenic uses by 0–37.4 m3/s in all subbasins. Moreover, an investigation of potential climate variability/change impact on river flow regime is made using streamflow simulations from a global hydrological model. Results indicate that hydrologic alteration is intense between nonregulated and regulated streamflow conditions. More specifically, for all Global Circulation Models and Regional Climate Models combinations, and both regulated and unregulated streamflow conditions, the minimum discharge values had statistically significant decreasing trends, except one combination (RCP 4.5–RCA4/ECEARTH) for unregulated conditions. Finally, results from this preliminary analysis could enhance the necessary conversations among all relevant stakeholders to discuss and decide on sustainable water resources management issues for the development of a Drin Basin Management Plan in the future.
Mental Illness Inequalities by Multimorbidity, Use of Health Resources and Socio-Economic Status in an Aging Society
Authors: García-Goñi Manuel , Stoyanova Alexandrina P. , Nuño-Solinís Roberto
Published: January 2021

Background: Mental illness, multi-morbidity, and socio-economic inequalities are some of the main challenges for the public health system nowadays, and are further aggravated by the process of population aging. Therefore, it is widely accepted that health systems need to focus their strategies for confronting such concerns. With guaranteed access to health care services under universal coverage in many health systems, it is expected that all services be provided equally to patients with the same level of need. Methods: In this paper, we explore the existence of inequalities in the access to services of patients with mental illness taking into account whether they are multimorbid patients, their socioeconomic status, and their age. We take advantage of a one-year (2010–2011) database on individual healthcare utilization and expenditures for the total population (N = 2,262,698) of the Basque Country. Results: More comorbidity leads to greater inequality in prevalence, being the poor sicker, although with age, this inequality decreases. All health services are more oriented towards greater utilization of the poor and sicker, particularly in the case of visits to specialists and emergency care. Conclusions: Mental health inequalities in prevalence have been identified as being disproportionally concentrated in the least affluent areas of the Basque Country. However, inequalities in the utilization of publicly-provided health services present a pro-poor orientation. As this region has adopted a system-wide transformation towards integrated care, its mental health delivery model offers excellent potential for international comparisons and benchlearning.
Sleep Quality, Mental and Physical Health: A Differential Relationship
Authors: Clement-Carbonell Violeta , Portilla-Tamarit Irene , Rubio-Aparicio María , Madrid-Valero Juan J
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to explore the association between sleep quality and its components and both dimensions of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in a sample of young adults. The sample comprised 337 participants with a mean age of 19.6 y (SD = 2.22). Sleep quality and HRQoL were measured through the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the SF-12, respectively. Regression analyses were used to investigate the association between sleep quality and HRQoL. Our results confirm the significant association between sleep quality and both physical (p = 0.015; β = −0.138; R2 = 0.07) and mental (p < 0.001; β = −0.348; R2 = 0.22) HRQoL in the adjusted models. However, our results also highlight the differential association between sleep quality and mental and physical HRQoL. Whereas all the sleep quality components (except sleep latency; p = 0.349) were significantly associated with mental HRQoL (p < 0.05), just two subscales (subjective sleep quality; p = 0.021; β = −0.143 and sleep disturbances p = 0.002; β = −0.165) showed a significant association. This study showed that there is a stronger association between sleep quality and mental health than sleep quality and physical health in young adults.
Organization of Community Mental Health Services for Persons with a Severe Mental Illness and Comorbid Somatic Conditions: A Systematic Review on Somatic Outcomes and Health Related Quality of Life
Authors: Martens Nicolaas , Destoop Marianne , Dom Geert
Published: January 2021

It is well established that persons with a severe mental illness (SMI) have a greater risk of physical comorbid conditions and premature mortality. Most studies in the field of community mental health care (CMHC) have only focused on improving cardiovascular health in people with a SMI using lifestyle approaches. Studies using organizational modifications are rather scarce. This systematic review aimed to synthesize and describe possible organizational strategies to improve physical health for persons with a SMI in CMHC. The primary outcome was Health-related Quality of Life (HR-QOL). Results suggested modest effects on quality of life and were inconsistent throughout all the included studies. Despite these findings, it appears that a more integrated approach had a positive effect on health outcomes, patient satisfaction and HR-QOL. The complexity of the processes involved in community care delivery makes it difficult to compare different models and organizational approaches. Mental health nurses were identified as possible key professionals in care organization, but no clear description of their role was found. This review could provide new insights into contributing factors for integrated care. Future research targeting the identification of the nurses’ role and facilitating factors in integrated care, in order to improve treatment and follow-up of somatic comorbidities, is recommended.
Heat-Moderating Effects of Bus Stop Shelters and Tree Shade on Public Transport Ridership
Authors: Lanza Kevin , Durand Casey P.
Published: January 2021

Rising temperatures threaten the resilience of public transit systems. We determined whether bus stop shelters and tree canopy surrounding bus stops moderated the effect of warm season temperatures on ridership in Austin, Texas, and whether shelters and trees were equitably distributed. For bus stops (n = 2271) of Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority, boardings per bus were measured 1 April–30 September 2019. Air temperature data originated from the Camp Mabry weather station. Tree canopy was calculated by classification of high-resolution aerial imagery from the National Agriculture Imagery Program. Data on race, ethnicity, poverty level, median age, and bus commuters within census tracts of bus stops originated from the 2014–2018 American Community Survey. Using multilevel negative binomial regression models, we found that shelters did not moderate the effect of high temperatures on ridership (p > 0.05). During high temperatures, each one-percent increase in tree canopy was associated with a lesser decrease (1.6%) in ridership compared to if there were no trees (1.7%) (p < 0.001). In general, shelters and trees were equitably distributed. Insignificant or modest effects of shelters and trees on ridership during high temperatures may be attributed to the transit dependency of riders. For climate change adaptation, we recommend tree planting at bus stops to protect from ridership losses and unhealthy exposure to extreme heat.
Environmental Barriers and Facilitators to Physical Activity among University Students with Physical Disability—A Qualitative Study in Spain
Authors: Monforte Javier , Úbeda-Colomer Joan , Pans Miquel , Pérez-Samaniego Víctor , Devís-Devís José
Published: January 2021

This paper qualitatively examines environmental factors operating as barriers and/or facilitators to participation in physical activity (PA) of people with physical disabilities. Interview data were collected from 27 Spanish university students through the innovative method of two-on-one interviews. Thereafter, data were subject to a flexible thematic analysis. Three themes were constructed: associations; PA practice spaces; and nonhumans. Concepts from different theories were used to generate meaningful interpretations around each theme. Drawing on our results, we offer several reflections and directions. Two key messages can be highlighted. First, environmental barriers and facilitators are context dependent and thus do not precede the circumstances in which they emerge. Second, Spanish universities should work harder to become relevant PA promoting environments for students with physical disability. The knowledge generated in this study is expected to inform the design, implementation and evaluation of programs promoting PA among Spanish university students with physical disability.
Cerebellar Degeneration in Epilepsy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ibdali Manar , Hadjivassiliou Marios , Grünewald Richard A. , Shanmugarajah Priya D.
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Cerebellar degeneration has been associated in patients with epilepsy, though the exact pathogenic mechanisms are not understood. The aim of this systematic review was to identify the prevalence of cerebellar degeneration in patients with epilepsy and identify any pathogenic mechanisms. Methodology: A systematic computer-based literature search was conducted using the PubMed database. Data extracted included prevalence, clinical, neuroradiological, and neuropathological characteristics of patients with epilepsy and cerebellar degeneration. Results: We identified three consistent predictors of cerebellar degeneration in the context of epilepsy in our review: temporal lobe epilepsy, poor seizure control, and phenytoin as the treatment modality. Whole brain and hippocampal atrophy were also identified in patients with epilepsy. Conclusions: Cerebellar degeneration is prevalent in patients with epilepsy. Further prospective studies are required to confirm if the predictors identified in this review are indeed linked to cerebellar degeneration and to establish the pathogenic mechanisms that result in cerebellar insult.
A Cross-Sectional Study on the Impacts of Perceived Job Value, Job Maintenance, and Social Support on Burnout among Long-Term Care Staff in Hawaii
Authors: Kim Bum Jung , Lee Sun-young
Published: January 2021

Extensive research has demonstrated the factors that influence burnout among social service employees, yet few studies have explored burnout among long-term care staff in Hawaii. This study aimed to examine the impact of job value, job maintenance, and social support on burnout of staff in long-term care settings in Hawaii, USA. This cross-sectional study included 170 long-term care staff, aged 20 to 75 years, in Hawaii. Hierarchical regression was employed to explore the relationships between the key independent variables and burnout. The results indicate that staff with a higher level of perceived job value, those who expressed a willingness to continue working in the same job, and those with strong social support from supervisors or peers are less likely to experience burnout. Interventions aimed at decreasing the level of burnout among long-term care staff in Hawaii may be more effective through culturally tailored programs aimed to increase the levels of job value, job maintenance, and social support.
Toward a More Comprehensive Index of Youth Cigarette Smoking: Average Number of Cigarettes Smoked per Day among Students in the United States over Two Decades
Authors: Bover Manderski Michelle T. , Delnevo Cristine D. , Warner Kenneth E.
Published: January 2021

Reliance on 30-day prevalence as the principal means of assessing trends in youth cigarette smoking may understate the magnitude of the decrease in youth smoking, because prevalence does not account for smoking frequency or intensity. We analyzed Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) data from 1997 through 2017 and estimated cigarette smoking prevalence (any smoking in the previous 30 days), frequency (number of smoking days in the previous 30 days), and intensity (cigarettes per day on smoking days). We calculated average cigarettes smoked per day (ACSD) as the product of frequency and intensity, divided by 30. We estimated ACSD among all high school students and by smoking frequency group (i.e., 1–5, 6–9, 10–19, 20–29, or 30 of the previous 30 days), sex, grade level, and race/ethnicity. Among US high school students, ACSD declined by 86.7% from 1997 to 2017, while prevalence declined by 75.8%. Within smoking frequency groups, smoking intensity remained similar over the two decades. However, changes in ACSD over time varied by race/ethnicity; ACSD increased among Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black daily smokers while it decreased among daily smokers of other race/ethnicity groups. ACSD declined more substantially than smoking prevalence over two decades but remained virtually unchanged within smoking frequency groups, indicating that changes in frequency, rather than intensity, drove this decline. Prevalence estimates alone understate the degree to which youth in the United States have rejected smoking, and racial/ethnic disparities in smoking intensity are hidden when we limit our lens to prevalence-only measures.
Potential Suppressive Effect of Nicotine on the Inflammatory Response in Oral Epithelial Cells: An In Vitro Study
Authors: An Na , Holl Jasmin , Wang Xuekui , Rausch Marco Aoqi , Andrukhov Oleh , Rausch-Fan Xiaohui
Published: January 2021

Smoking is a well-recognized risk factor for oral mucosal and periodontal diseases. Nicotine is an important component of cigarette smoke. This study aims to investigate the impact of nicotine on the viability and inflammatory mediator production of an oral epithelial cell line in the presence of various inflammatory stimuli. Oral epithelial HSC-2 cells were challenged with nicotine (10−8–10−2 M) for 24 h in the presence or absence of Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1 µg/mL) or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (10−7 M) for 24 h. The cell proliferation/viability was determined by MTT assay. Gene expression of interleukin (IL)-8, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, and β-defensin was assayed by qPCR. The production of IL-8 protein and cell surface expression of ICAM-1 was assessed by ELISA and flow cytometry, respectively. Proliferation/viability of HSC-2 cells was unaffected by nicotine at concentrations up to 10−3 M and inhibited at 10−2 M. Nicotine had no significant effect on the basal expression of IL-8, ICAM-1, and β-defensin. At the same time, it significantly diminished P. gingivalis LPS or the TNF-α-induced expression levels of these factors. Within the limitations of this study, the first evidence was provided in vitro that nicotine probably exerts a suppressive effect on the production of inflammatory mediators and antimicrobial peptides in human oral epithelial cells.
Quality of Life of Patients with Glaucoma in Slovakia
Authors: Majerníková Ľudmila , Hudáková Anna , Obročníková Andrea , Grešš Halász Beáta , Kaščáková Mária
Published: January 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify and analyse the quality of life of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) based on their visus and peripheral vision. Methods: Our study was observational in nature; it was a cross-sectional study. In total, 119 patients with POAG were included in a causal-comparative character, ex post facto research design. The authors collected data using the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25 (NEI VFQ-25) and World Health Organization Quality of Life abbreviated version questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) tools. Results: Only patients with POAG that were over 18 years of age and had no other ocular or chronic illnesses were included. The mean duration of glaucoma was 8.77 (SD ± 5.63) years. Binocular disability was observed in 68.0% of patients. Using WHOQOL-BREF, there were significant differences found in the better-eye-vision group in psychological (p < 0.001) and environment (p < 0.001) domains. In the worse-eye-vision group, significant differences were found in physical health (p < 0.001), environment (p < 0.001), and quality related to health (p < 0.001) domains. Using NEI VFQ-25, there were significant differences found (p = 0.000) in all domains except subscale driving. Conclusion: Quality of life of patients with visual impairment is significantly lower in comparison to that of patients without a visual impairment.