bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining Handwashing Behavior in a Sample of College Students during COVID-19 Pandemic Using the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of Health Behavior Change: A Single Institutional Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Sharma Manoj , Batra Kavita , Davis Robert E. , Wilkerson Amanda H.
Published: January 2021

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, handwashing offers a simple and effective hygienic measure for disease prevention. Reportedly, a significant proportion of college students did not follow handwashing recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the pre-COVID era. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to explore and explain the handwashing behavior among college students during the COVID-19 pandemic using a contemporary fourth-generation multi-theory model (MTM) of health behavior change. Data were collected from 713 college students at a large public university in the Southern U.S. in October 2020 using a validated 36-item survey. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-tests, Pearson correlation, and hierarchical regression modeling. Among students not following handwashing recommendations, the constructs of participatory dialogue (β = 0.152; p < 0.05) and behavioral confidence (β = 0.474; p < 0.0001) were statistically significant and accounted for 27.2% of the variance in the likelihood of initiation of the behavior. Additionally, the constructs of emotional transformation (β = 0.330; p < 0.0001), practice for change (β = 0.296; p < 0.0001), and changes in the social environment (β = 0.180; p < 0.05) were statistically significant and accounted for 45.1% of the variance in the likelihood of sustaining handwashing behavior. This study highlights the applicability and usability of the MTM in designing and testing behavior change interventions and media messaging in campaigns targeting college students.
A Semi-Automatic Reconstruction of Archaeological Pottery Fragments from 2D Images Using Wavelet Transformation
Authors: Eslami Dariush , Di Angelo Luca , Di Stefano Paolo , Guardiani Emanuele
Published: January 2021

The problem of matching fragments of three-dimensional (3D) objects has gained increasing attention, and several approaches have been developed to solve this problem. To date, however, to the best knowledge of the authors, there is no computer-based method supporting archaeologists in this activity. For this purpose, in this paper, a semi-automatic approach is proposed for the reconstruction of archaeological pottery fragments based on two-dimensional (2D) images. Firstly, the method, considering the curves as features, involves the extraction of edge curves by applying the Canny filter algorithm to the fragments’ image. Next, the wavelet transformation method is used to fit the edge curves and obtain the approximation coefficients. Then, the correlation coefficients between fragments are computed and the matching of fragments is done by comparing their values. The proposed approach is tested on some real cases. The results of the experimentation show, if compared with the state-of-the-art, that the method seems to be efficient and accurate in the reconstruction of pottery from 2D images of their fragments.
Chromatin Manipulation and Editing: Challenges, New Technologies and Their Use in Plants
Authors: Fal Kateryna , Tomkova Denisa , Vachon Gilles , Chabouté Marie-Edith , Berr Alexandre , Carles Cristel C.
Published: January 2021

An ongoing challenge in functional epigenomics is to develop tools for precise manipulation of epigenetic marks. These tools would allow moving from correlation-based to causal-based findings, a necessary step to reach conclusions on mechanistic principles. In this review, we describe and discuss the advantages and limits of tools and technologies developed to impact epigenetic marks, and which could be employed to study their direct effect on nuclear and chromatin structure, on transcription, and their further genuine role in plant cell fate and development. On one hand, epigenome-wide approaches include drug inhibitors for chromatin modifiers or readers, nanobodies against histone marks or lines expressing modified histones or mutant chromatin effectors. On the other hand, locus-specific approaches consist in targeting precise regions on the chromatin, with engineered proteins able to modify epigenetic marks. Early systems use effectors in fusion with protein domains that recognize a specific DNA sequence (Zinc Finger or TALEs), while the more recent dCas9 approach operates through RNA-DNA interaction, thereby providing more flexibility and modularity for tool designs. Current developments of “second generation”, chimeric dCas9 systems, aiming at better targeting efficiency and modifier capacity have recently been tested in plants and provided promising results. Finally, recent proof-of-concept studies forecast even finer tools, such as inducible/switchable systems, that will allow temporal analyses of the molecular events that follow a change in a specific chromatin mark.
Heat Shock Protein 27 Injection Leads to Caspase Activation in the Visual Pathway and Retinal T-Cell Response
Authors: Grotegut Pia , Hoerdemann Philipp Johannes , Reinehr Sabrina , Gupta Nupur , Dick H. Burkhard , Joachim Stephanie C.
Published: January 2021

Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) is one of the small molecular chaperones and is involved in many cell mechanisms. Besides the known protective and helpful functions of intracellular HSP27, very little is known about the mode of action of extracellular HSP27. In a previous study, we showed that intravitreal injection of HSP27 led to neuronal damage in the retina and optic nerve after 21 days. However, it was not clear which degenerative signaling pathways were induced by the injection. For this reason, the pathological mechanisms of intravitreal HSP27 injection after 14 days were investigated. Histological and RT-qPCR analyses revealed an increase in endogenous HSP27 in the retina and an activation of components of the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathway. In addition, an increase in nucleus factor-kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB), as well as of microglia/macrophages and T-cells could be observed. In the optic nerve, however, only an increased apoptosis rate was detectable. Therefore, the activation of caspases and the induction of an incipient immune response seem to be the main triggers for retinal degeneration in this intravitreal HSP27 model.
Human Primary Dermal Fibroblasts Interacting with 3-Dimensional Matrices for Surgical Application Show Specific Growth and Gene Expression Programs
Authors: Grossi Sarah , Grimaldi Annalisa , Congiu Terenzio , Parnigoni Arianna , Campanelli Giampiero , Campomenosi Paola
Published: January 2021

Several types of 3-dimensional (3D) biological matrices are employed for clinical and surgical applications, but few indications are available to guide surgeons in the choice among these materials. Here we compare the in vitro growth of human primary fibroblasts on different biological matrices commonly used for clinical and surgical applications and the activation of specific molecular pathways over 30 days of growth. Morphological analyses by Scanning Electron Microscopy and proliferation curves showed that fibroblasts have different ability to attach and proliferate on the different biological matrices. They activated similar gene expression programs, reducing the expression of collagen genes and myofibroblast differentiation markers compared to fibroblasts grown in 2D. However, differences among 3D matrices were observed in the expression of specific metalloproteinases and interleukin-6. Indeed, cell proliferation and expression of matrix degrading enzymes occur in the initial steps of interaction between fibroblast and the investigated meshes, whereas collagen and interleukin-6 expression appear to start later. The data reported here highlight features of fibroblasts grown on different 3D biological matrices and warrant further studies to understand how these findings may be used to help the clinicians choose the correct material for specific applications.
Are There Any Red Flag Injuries in Severely Injured Patients in Older Age?
Authors: Popp Daniel , Frankewycz Borys , Lang Siegmund , Ernstberger Antonio , Alt Volker , Worlicek Michael , Kerschbaum Maximilian
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Severely injured elderly patients pose a significant burden to trauma centers and, compared with younger patients, have worse prognoses and higher mortality rates after major trauma. The objective of this study was to identify the etiological mechanisms that are associated with severe trauma in elderly patients and to detect which injuries correlate with high mortality in elderly patients. Methods: Using a prospect cohort study model over an 11-year period, severely injured patients (ISS ≥ 16) were divided into two age groups (Group 1: 18–64; Group 2: 65–99 years). A comparison of the groups was conducted regarding injury frequency, trauma mechanism, distribution of affected body parts (AIS and ISS regions) and injury related mortality. Results: In total, 1008 patient were included (Group 1: n = 771; Group 2: n = 237). The most relevant injury in elderly patients was falling from low heights (<3 m) in contrast to traffic accident in young patients. Severely injured patients in the older age group showed a significantly higher overall mortality rate compared to the younger group (37.6% vs. 11.7%; p = 0.000). In both groups, the 30-day survival for patients without head injuries was significantly better compared to patients with head injuries (92.7% vs. 85.3%; p = 0.017), especially analyzing elderly patients (86.6% vs. 58.6%; p = 0.003). The relative risk of 30-day mortality in patients who suffered a head injury was also higher in the elderly group (OR: Group 1: 4.905; Group 2: 7.132). Conclusion: In contrast to younger patients, falls from low heights (<3 m) are significant risk factors for severe injuries in the geriatric collective. Additionally, elderly patients with an ISS ≥ 16 had a significantly higher mortality rate compared to severe injured younger patients. Head injuries, even minor head traumata, are associated with a significant increase in mortality. These findings will contribute to the development of more age-related therapy strategies in severely injured patients.
Integrating Diverse Perspectives for Managing Neighborhood Trees and Urban Ecosystem Services in Portland, OR (US)
Authors: Alves Carvalho Nascimento Lorena , Shandas Vivek
Published: January 2021

Municipalities worldwide are increasingly recognizing the importance of urban green spaces to mitigate climate change’s extreme effects and improve residents’ quality of life. Even with extensive earlier research examining the distribution of tree canopy in cities, we know little about human perceptions of urban forestry and related ecosystem services. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the variations in socioeconomic indicators and public perceptions by asking how neighborhood trees and socioeconomic indicators mediate public perceptions of ecosystem services availability. Using Portland, Oregon (USA) as our case study, we assessed socioeconomic indicators, land cover data, and survey responses about public perceptions of neighborhood trees. Based on over 2500 survey responses, the results indicated a significant correlation among tree canopy, resident income, and sense of ownership for urban forestry. We further identified the extent to which the absence of trees amplifies environmental injustices and challenges for engaging communities with landscape management. The results suggested that Portland residents are aware of tree maintenance challenges, and the inclusion of cultural ecosystem services can better address existing environmental injustices. Our assessment of open-ended statements suggested the importance of conducting public outreach to identify specific priorities for a community-based approach to urban forestry.
A Plane Stress Failure Criterion for Inorganically-Bound Core Materials
Authors: Lechner Philipp , Hartmann Christoph , Ettemeyer Florian , Volk Wolfram
Published: January 2021

Inorganically-bound core materials are used in foundries in high quantities. However, there is no validated mechanical failure criterion, which allows performing finite-element calculations on the core geometries, yet. With finite-element simulations, the cores could be optimised for various production processes from robotic core handling to the decoring process after the casting. To identify a failure criterion, we propose testing methods, that enable us to investigate the fracture behaviour of inorganically-bound core materials. These novel testing methods induce multiple bi-axial stress states into the specimens and are developed for cohesive frictional materials in general and for sand cores in particular. This allows validating failure criteria in principal stress space. We found that a Mohr-Coulomb model describes the fracture of inorganic core materials in a plane stress state quite accurately and adapted it to a failure criterion, which combines the Mohr-Coulomb model with the Weakest-Link theory in one consistent mechanical material model. This novel material model has been successfully utilised to predict the fracture force of a Brazilian test. This prediction is based on the stress fields of a finite element method (FEM) calculation.
Process Kinetics of the Carbonation of Fly Ashes: A Research Study
Authors: Łączny Marian Jacek , Iwaszenko Sebastian , Smoliński Adam
Published: January 2021

The aim of the paper is to present the results of research on the carbonation process kinetics of coal combustion ashes originating from fluidized bed boilers used in power plants. Based on the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), the hypothesis that carbon dioxide is bounded by the mineral substances (calcium compounds) in the fly ashes was confirmed. Determining the kinetic parameters of the carbonation of fly ashes requires simultaneously taking into consideration the kinetics of the drying process of the sample. The drying process of the sample masks the effect of the reaction of CO2 with calcium compound. Unlike the ashes generated in pulverized fuel boilers, fly ashes contain irregular amorphic mineral components or poorly crystalized products of complete or partial dehydroxylation of claystone substance present in shale formations constituting the gangue as well as anhydrite (CaSO4), a desulfurization product. The content of free calcium oxide (CaO) in such ashes ranges from a few to several percent, which is a significant obstacle considering their use in cement and concrete production as type II admixtures understood to be inorganic grained materials of pozzolanic or latent hydraulic properties. The paper presents effective mechanisms which reduce the content of free CaO in ashes from Fluidized Bed Combustion (FBC) boilers to a level that allows their commercial utilization in the cement industry.
Modulating Kinetics of the Amyloid-Like Aggregation of S. aureus Phenol-Soluble Modulins by Changes in pH
Authors: Zaman Masihuz , Andreasen Maria
Published: January 2021

The pathogen Staphylococcus aureus is recognized as one of the most frequent causes of biofilm-associated infections. The recently identified phenol-soluble modulin (PSM) peptides act as the key molecular effectors of staphylococcal biofilm maturation and promote the formation of an aggregated fibril structure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of various pH values on the formation of functional amyloids of individual PSM peptides. Here, we combined a range of biophysical, chemical kinetics and microscopic techniques to address the structure and aggregation mechanism of individual PSMs under different conditions. We established that there is a pH-induced switch in PSM aggregation kinetics. Different lag times and growth of fibrils were observed, which indicates that there was no clear correlation between the rates of fibril elongation among different PSMs. This finding confirms that pH can modulate the aggregation properties of these peptides and suggest a deeper understanding of the formation of aggregates, which represents an important basis for strategies to interfere and might help in reducing the risk of biofilm-related infections.
Advances in Nanomaterials in Biomedicine
Authors: Ryabchikova Elena
Published: January 2021

Biomedicine is actively developing a methodological network that brings together biological research and its medical applications [...]
Interface Chemical Modification between All-Inorganic Perovskite Nanocrystals and Porous Silica Microspheres for Composite Materials with Improved Emission
Authors: Cherevkov Sergei , Azizov Ruslan , Sokolova Anastasiia , Nautran Valeriia , Miruschenko Mikhail , Arefina Irina , Baranov Mikhail , Kurdyukov Dmitry , Stovpiaga Ekaterina , Golubev Valery , Baranov Alexander , Ushakova Elena
Published: January 2021

In recent years, there has been rapid progress in the development of photonic devices based on lead halide perovskite nanocrystals since they possess a set of unique optical and charge transport properties. However, the main limiting factor for their subsequent application is poor stability against exposure to adverse environmental conditions. In this work, a study of a composite material based on perovskite CsPbBr3 nanocrystals embedded in porous silica microspheres is presented. We developed two different approaches to change the interface between nanocrystals and the surface of the microsphere pores: surface treatment of (i) nanocrystals or (ii) microspheres. The surface modification with tetraethylorthosilicate molecules not only increased stability but also improved the optical responses of the composite material. The position of the emission band remained almost unchanged, but its lifetime increased significantly compared to the initial value. The improvement of the optical performance via surface modification with tetraethylorthosilicate molecules also works for the lead-free Bi-doped Cs2AgInCl6 double perovskite nanocrystals leading to increased stability of their optical responses at ambient conditions. These results clearly demonstrate the advantage of a composite material that can be used in novel photonic devices with improved performance.
Extensive Phylogenetic Analysis of Piscine Orthoreovirus Genomic Sequences Shows the Robustness of Subgenotype Classification
Authors: Godoy Marcos , Medina Daniel A. , Suarez Rudy , Valenzuela Sandro , Romero Jaime , Kibenge Molly , Wang Yingwei , Kibenge Frederick
Published: January 2021

Piscine orthoreovirus (PRV) belongs to the family Reoviridae and has been described mainly in association with salmonid infections. The genome of PRV consists of about 23,600 bp, with 10 segments of double-stranded RNA, classified as small (S1 to S4), medium (M1, M2 and M3) and large (L1, L2 and L3); these range approximately from 1000 bp (segment S4) to 4000 bp (segment L1). How the genetic variation among PRV strains affects the virulence for salmonids is still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to describe the molecular phylogeny of PRV based on an extensive sequence analysis of the S1 and M2 segments of PRV available in the GenBank database to date (May 2020). The analysis was extended to include new PRV sequences for S1 and M2 segments. In addition, subgenotype classifications were assigned to previously published unclassified sequences. It was concluded that the phylogenetic trees are consistent with the original classification using the PRV genomic segment S1, which differentiates PRV into two major genotypes, I and II, and each of these into two subgenotypes, designated as Ia and Ib, and IIa and IIb, respectively. Moreover, some clusters of country- and host-specific PRV subgenotypes were observed in the subset of sequences used. This work strengthens the subgenotype classification of PRV based on the S1 segment and can be used to enhance research on the virulence of PRV.
Thermal, Rheological, Mechanical, and Electrical Properties of Polypropylene/Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites
Authors: Stanciu Nicoleta-Violeta , Stan Felicia , Sandu Ionut-Laurentiu , Fetecau Catalin , Turcanu Adriana-Madalina
Published: January 2021

In this paper, nanocomposites based on polypropylene (PP) filled with up to 5 wt.% of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were investigated for determining the material property data used in numerical simulation of manufacturing processes such as the injection molding and extrusion. PP/MWCNT nanocomposite pellets were characterized for rheological behavior, crystallinity, specific volume and thermal conductivity, while injection-molded samples were characterized for mechanical and electrical properties. The addition of MWCNTs does not significantly change the melting and crystallization behavior of the PP/MWCNT nanocomposites. The effect of MWCNTs on melt shear viscosity is more pronounced at low shear rates and MWCNT loadings of 1–5 wt.%. However, with the addition of up to 5 wt.% of MWCNTs, the PP/MWCNT nanocomposite still behaves like a non-Newtonian fluid. The specific volume of the PP/MWCNT nanocomposites decreases with increasing MWCNT loading, especially in the MWCNT range of 1–5 wt.%, indicating better dimensional stability. The thermal conductivity, depending on the pressure, MWCNT wt.% and temperature, did not exceed 0.35 W/m·K. The PP/MWCNT nanocomposite is electrical non-conductive up to 3 wt.%, whereas after the percolating path is created, the nanocomposite with 5 wt.% becomes semi-conductive with an electrical conductivity of 10−1 S/m. The tensile modulus, tensile strength and stress at break increase with increasing MWCNT loading, whereas the elongation at break significantly decreases with increasing MWCNT loading. The Cross and modified 2-domain Tait models are suitable for predicting the melt shear viscosity and specific volume as a function of MWCNTs, respectively. These results enable users to integrate the PP/MWCNT nanocomposites into computer aided engineering analysis.
PTSD Treatment Problems at the U.S. Veterans Administration
Authors: Koven Steven G.
Published: January 2021

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increasingly burdens the health of many people, as indicated by the growing numbers of U.S. military veterans’ claims. An increased awareness of PTSD as a health concern necessitates a careful exploration of treatments. A range of current PTSD treatments and the need to more selectively utilize treatments is addressed. Studies indicate that recent PTSD treatment breakthroughs may offer promise and can be more effectively utilized. Assertions from organizations such as the U.S. National Center for PTSD contradict the commonly cited contention that there is no “cure” for PTSD. A review of PTSD literature reveals that: (1) the U.S. Veterans Administration is dispensing drugs (some of which have harmful side effects) that are not approved for use in treating PTSD by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, (2) not aggressively exploring the use of novel approaches to PTSD treatment, and (3) not adequately funding research into PTSD treatment relatively to the funding of disability payments. Because of these factors the U.S. government is not optimally serving the interests of veterans.
Race, Disability and COVID-19: A DisCrit Analysis of Theological Education
Authors: Fears Barbara A.
Published: January 2021

The coronavirus pandemic of 2020 has generated public debate and private discussion about systemic racism in contemporary U.S. society and the ill preparedness and misdirected focus of clergy responding to this crisis. Later research will reveal reasons trained clergy called denominational offices, requesting assistance to address the needs of patients and parishioners, and initiated lawsuits demanding to gather for worship against medical advice and government mandates. While theological educators cannot anticipate every emergency awaiting graduates, U.S. history records national crises (i.e., hurricanes, mass shootings, BLM protests, etc.) that repeat. Practical theology course offerings, course content and course assignments, therefore, should be designed to prepare students to lead in anticipation of personal and communal tragedies. As professors introduce students to theory/theorists, we must also create space for the development of critical consciousness about and praxis for: problem solving, advocacy, race relations, relationship building, crisis management, identity politics, privilege, implicit curriculums and race-based disparities in health care, policing, religion, education, etc. Critical Race Theorists assert that this nation’s colonial past still plagues contemporary behaviors, employing the framework of Disability Studies and CRT (Dis/Crit), I analyze theological education to address what has been identified as racial paterfamilias in the institution, which may explain our colonial/capitalist response to COVID-19.
Improvement of the Interaction Model Aimed to Reduce the Negative Effects of Cybersickness in VR Rehab Applications
Authors: Veličković Predrag , Milovanović Miloš
Published: January 2021

Virtual reality (VR) has the potential to be applied in many fields, including medicine, education, scientific research. The e-health impact of VR on medical therapy for people cannot be ignored, but participants reported problems using them, as the capabilities and limitations of users can greatly affect the effectiveness and usability of the VR in rehabilitation. Previous studies of VR have focused on the development and use of the technology itself, and it is only in recent years that emphasis has been placed on usability problems that include the human factor. In this research, different ways of adapting interaction in VR were tested. One approach was focused on means of navigating through a VR, while the second dealt with the impact of the amount of animation and moving elements through a series of tests. In conclusion, the way of navigation and the amount of animation and moving elements, as well as their combination, are proven to have a great influence on the use of VR systems for rehabilitation. There is a possibility to reduce the occurrence of problems related to cybersickness if the results of this research are taken into consideration and applied from an early stage of designing VR rehabilitation applications.
Assessment of Spectra of the Atmospheric Infrared Ultraspectral Sounder on GF-5 and Validation of Water Vapor Retrieval
Authors: Cao Xifeng , Li Xiaoying , Liu Shuanghui , Zhang Xinyuan
Published: January 2021

Atmospheric Infrared Ultraspectral Sounder (AIUS) aboard the Chinese GaoFen-5 satellite was launched on 9 May 2018. It is the first hyperspectral occultation spectrometer in China. The spectral quality assessment of AIUS measurements at the full and representative spectral bands was presented by comparing the transmittance spectra of measurements with that of simulations. AIUS measurements agree well with simulations. Statistics show that more than 73% of the transmittance differences are within ±0.05 and more than 91% of the transmittance differences are within ±0.1. The spectral windows for O3, H2O, temperature, CO, CH4, and HCl were also analyzed. The comparison experiments indicate that AIUS data can provide reliable data for O3, H2O, temperature, CO, CH4, and HCl detection and dynamic monitoring. The H2O profiles were then retrieved from AIUS measurements, and the precision, resolution, and accuracy of the H2O profiles are discussed. The estimated precision is less than 1.3 ppmv (21%) below 57 km and about 0.9–2.4 ppmv (20–31%) at 60–90 km. The vertical resolution of H2O profiles is better than 5 km below 32 km and about 5–8 km at 35–85 km. Comparisons with MLS Level 2 products indicate that the mean H2O profiles of AIUS have a good agreement with those of MLS. The relative differences are mostly within ±10% at 16–75 km and about 10–15% at 16–20 km in 60∘–80∘ S. For 60∘–65 ∘ S in December, the relative differences are within ±5% between 22 km and 80 km. The H2O profiles retrieved from AIUS measurements are credible for scientific research.
A Bayesian Driver Agent Model for Autonomous Vehicles System Based on Knowledge-Aware and Real-Time Data
Authors: Ma Jichang , Xie Hui , Song Kang , Liu Hao
Published: January 2021

A key research area in autonomous driving is how to model the driver’s decision-making behavior, due to the fact it is significant for a self-driving vehicles considering their traffic safety and efficiency. However, the uncertain characteristics of vehicle and pedestrian trajectories affect urban roads, which poses severe challenges to the cognitive understanding and decision-making of autonomous vehicle systems in terms of accuracy and robustness. To overcome the abovementioned problems, this paper proposes a Bayesian driver agent (BDA) model which is a vision-based autonomous vehicle system with learning and inference methods inspired by human driver’s cognitive psychology. Different from the end-to-end learning method and traditional rule-based methods, our approach breaks the driving system up into a scene recognition module and a decision inference module. The perception module, which is based on a multi-task learning neural network (CNN), takes a driver’s-view image as its input and predicts the traffic scene’s feature values. The decision module based on dynamic Bayesian network (DBN) then makes an inferred decision using the traffic scene’s feature values. To explore the validity of the Bayesian driver agent model, we performed experiments on a driving simulation platform. The BDA model can extract the scene feature values effectively and predict the probability distribution of the human driver’s decision-making process accurately based on inference. We take the lane changing scenario as an example to verify the model, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) correlation between the BDA model and human driver’s decision process reached 0.984. This work suggests a research in scene perception and autonomous decision-making that may apply to autonomous vehicle system.
A Promising Wearable Solution for the Practical and Accurate Monitoring of Low Back Loading in Manual Material Handling
Authors: Matijevich Emily S. , Volgyesi Peter , Zelik Karl E.
Published: January 2021

(1) Background: Low back disorders are a leading cause of missed work and physical disability in manual material handling due to repetitive lumbar loading and overexertion. Ergonomic assessments are often performed to understand and mitigate the risk of musculoskeletal overexertion injuries. Wearable sensor solutions for monitoring low back loading have the potential to improve the quality, quantity, and efficiency of ergonomic assessments and to expand opportunities for the personalized, continuous monitoring of overexertion injury risk. However, existing wearable solutions using a single inertial measurement unit (IMU) are limited in how accurately they can estimate back loading when objects of varying mass are handled, and alternative solutions in the scientific literature require so many distributed sensors that they are impractical for widespread workplace implementation. We therefore explored new ways to accurately monitor low back loading using a small number of wearable sensors. (2) Methods: We synchronously collected data from laboratory instrumentation and wearable sensors to analyze 10 individuals each performing about 400 different material handling tasks. We explored dozens of candidate solutions that used IMUs on various body locations and/or pressure insoles. (3) Results: We found that the two key sensors for accurately monitoring low back loading are a trunk IMU and pressure insoles. Using signals from these two sensors together with a Gradient Boosted Decision Tree algorithm has the potential to provide a practical (relatively few sensors), accurate (up to r2 = 0.89), and automated way (using wearables) to monitor time series lumbar moments across a broad range of material handling tasks. The trunk IMU could be replaced by thigh IMUs, or a pelvis IMU, without sacrificing much accuracy, but there was no practical substitute for the pressure insoles. The key to realizing accurate lumbar load estimates with this approach in the real world will be optimizing force estimates from pressure insoles. (4) Conclusions: Here, we present a promising wearable solution for the practical, automated, and accurate monitoring of low back loading during manual material handling.
Component Analysis of Gas Mixture Based on One-Dimensional Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Zhan Canjian , He Jiafeng , Pan Mingjin , Luo Dehan
Published: January 2021

Indoor harmful gases are a considerable threat to the health of residents. In order to improve the accuracy of indoor harmful gas component identification, we propose an indoor toxic gas component analysis method that is based on the combination of bionic olfactory and convolutional neural network. This method uses the convolutional neural network’s ability to extract nonlinear features and identify each component of bionic oflactory respense signal. A comparison with the results of other methods verifies the improvement of recognition rate while with the same level of time cost, which proved the effectiveness of the proposed model. The experimental results showed that the recognition rate of different types and concentrations of harmful gas components reached 90.96% and it solved the problem of mutual interference between gases.
A Time-Frequency Measurement and Evaluation Approach for Body Channel Characteristics in Galvanic Coupling Intrabody Communication
Authors: Wei Ziliang , Wen Yangrong , Gao Yueming , Yang Mingjing , Yang Jiejie , Pun Sio Hang , Vai Mang I , Du Min
Published: January 2021

Intrabody communication (IBC) can achieve better power efficiency and higher levels of security than other traditional wireless communication technologies. Currently, the majority of research on the body channel characteristics of galvanic coupling IBC are motionless and have only been evaluated in the frequency domain. Given the long measuring times of traditional methods, the access to dynamic variations and the simultaneous evaluation of the time-frequency domain remains a challenge for dynamic body channels such as the cardiac channel. To address this challenge, we proposed a parallel measurement methodology with a multi-tone strategy and a time-parameter processing approach to obtain a time-frequency evaluation for dynamic body channels. A group search algorithm has been performed to optimize the crest factor of multitone excitation in the time domain. To validate the proposed methods, in vivo experiments, with both dynamic and motionless conditions were measured using the traditional method and the proposed method. The results indicate that the proposed method is more time efficient (Tmeas=1 ms) with a consistent performance (ρc > 98%). Most importantly, it is capable of capturing dynamic variations in the body channel and provides a more comprehensive evaluation and richer information for the study of IBC.
A Hybrid Model for PM2.5 Concentration Forecasting Based on Neighbor Structural Information, a Case in North China
Authors: Wang Ping , He Xuran , Feng Hongyinping , Zhang Guisheng , Rong Chenglu
Published: January 2021

PM2.5 concentration prediction is an important task in atmospheric environment research, so many prediction models have been established, such as machine learning algorithm, which shows remarkable generalization ability. The time series data composed of PM2.5 concentration have the implied structural characteristics such as the sequence characteristic in time dimension and the high dimension characteristic in dynamic-mode space, which makes it different from other research data. However, when the machine learning algorithm is applied to the PM2.5 time series prediction, due to the principle of input data composition, the above structural characteristics can not be fully reflected. In our study, a neighbor structural information extraction algorithm based on dynamic decomposition is proposed to represent the structural characteristics of time series, and a new hybrid prediction system is established by using the extracted neighbor structural information to improve the accuracy of PM2.5 concentration prediction. During the process of extracting neighbor structural information, the original PM2.5 concentration series is decomposed into finite dynamic modes according to the neighborhood data, which reflects the time series structural characteristics. The hybrid model integrates the neighbor structural information in the form of input vector, which ensures the applicability of the neighbor structural information and retains the composition form the original prediction system. The experimental results of six cities show that the hybrid prediction systems integrating neighbor structural information are significantly superior to the traditional models, and also confirm that the neighbor structural information extraction algorithm can capture effective time series structural information.
Customer Behavioral Reactions to Negative Experiences during the Product Return
Authors: Lysenko-Ryba Kateryna , Zimon Dominik
Published: January 2021

This paper takes a closer look at customer experience during product return and the customer’s ability to share information about it. The research process included the development of research tools such as questionnaires. Anonymous surveys were conducted by computer assisted web interview among individual customers from Poland on a sample 327 respondents. Non-stratified random sampling was used, as we considered it to be the most effective in terms of the effort-benefit ratio of the survey. A contingency table was constructed from the responses, the observed values and expected values were compared, and the Pearson Chi-square and the p-value of Fisher’s exact test were calculated. The research process carried out as well as the analysis of the obtained results allowed us to respond to the research questions. As a result, it can be stated that the clients, both satisfied (80.1%) and dissatisfied (84,4%), tended to share their opinion about return experience with other potential clients. Moreover, 42.2% of the respondents declared that they would not buy again from a seller after an unsuccessful return operation. The presented conclusions enrich the theoretical understanding of customer behavior and their purchase intention. It also offers retailers a quantitative benchmark and new perspective on the design of return policy in order to improve customer satisfaction.
Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitudes toward Tsunamis: A Local Survey in the Southern Coast of Iran
Authors: Salah Parastoo , Sasaki Jun
Published: January 2021

In regions with low tsunami risk probability, mitigation plans are unlikely to resonate with residents. Empirical data regarding people’s knowledge, awareness, and attitudes about tsunamis represent a keystone for better risk management and improved disaster preparedness. This study evaluated these factors on the southern coast of Iran, Makran, by conducting a field survey. The results presented in this paper indicate a low level of awareness and willingness to evacuate among residents and a low level of trust in the government in regard to risk management. Moreover, the results show a significant religious attribution affecting respondents’ risk perception and evacuation behavior that, along with the aforementioned factors, increases residents’ vulnerability. Based on our findings, we provide some recommendations to help policymakers understand how to shape mitigation and evacuation plans such that they will become more evidence-based, sensitive, informed, and cost-effective.
Understanding Farm-Level Incentives within the Bioeconomy Framework: Prices, Product Quality, Losses, and Bio-Based Alternatives
Authors: Jansen Sarah , Foster William , Anríquez Gustavo , Ortega Jorge
Published: January 2021

The bioeconomy framework emphasizes potential contributions of life sciences to novel, bio-based products and to discover economic uses for what would otherwise be considered waste or loss in traditional production systems. To best exploit this perspective, especially for biowaste innovations, economists should develop behavioral models that integrate decision-making with biophysical concepts. The supply to bioeconomy uses of farm production otherwise lost depends on the relative net benefits of adjusting production across a range of quality levels. Without understanding such incentives, one cannot fully anticipate the effects on prices and consumer welfare due to new alternatives. The analysis here examines farm-level incentives that determine quality, sales and loss levels, and possible switching of supplies to alternative uses. We present a farmer decision model of the distribution of product qualities, total losses, and the adoption of alternative profitable activities, such as for antioxidants or other novel bioproducts. We demonstrate how the introduction of bio-based alternatives changes opportunity costs of resource use, altering product quality proportions and sales to traditional markets. Adopting biowaste alternatives depends on scale, productivity, and fixed costs; adopting these reduces the proportion of production going to traditional buyers/consumers and shifts downward the distribution of traditional product (e.g., food-grade) qualities.
Modeling Urban Growth and Socio-Spatial Dynamics of Hangzhou, China: 1964–2010
Authors: Feng Jian , Chen Yanguang
Published: January 2021

Urban population density provides a good perspective for understanding urban growth and socio-spatial dynamics. Based on sub-district data of the five national censuses in 1964, 1982, 1990, 2000, and 2010, this paper is devoted to analyzing of urban growth and the spatial restructuring of the population in the city of Hangzhou, China. Research methods are based on mathematical modeling and field investigation. The modeling result shows that the negative exponential function and the power-exponential function can be well fitted to Hangzhou’s observational data of urban density. The negative exponential model reflects the expected state, while the power-exponential model reflects the real state of urban density distribution. The parameters of these models are linearly correlated to the spatial information entropy of population distribution. The fact that the density gradient in the negative exponential function flattened in the 1990s and 2000s is closely related to the development of suburbanization. In terms of investigation materials and the changing trend of model parameters, we can reveal the spatio-temporal features of Hangzhou’s urban growth. The main conclusions can be reached as follows. The policy of reformation and opening-up and the establishment of a market economy improved the development mode of Hangzhou. As long as a city has a good social and economic environment, it will automatically tend to the optimal state through self-organization.
The Design and Production of a Suitable Carrier for Microwires Used for Non-Contact Detection of Mechanical Strains
Authors: Ali Mohamad Al , Kmeť Stanislav , Platko Peter , Bajzecerová Viktória , Zeleňáková Martina
Published: January 2021

During the loading process, strain gauges connected to measuring devices are usually used to detect the strains of structural load-bearing members. Nowadays, newer and more sophisticated measurement methods are being developed. One of these involves the application of amorphous glass-coated microwires for non-contact detection of mechanical strains. This paper presents the results of research work aimed at finding a suitable carrier or transfer medium for such microwires. The identification of a suitable transfer medium was part of extensive theoretical and experimental research focusing on non-contact detection of mechanical strains based on amorphous glass-coated microwires. The results present an innovative and effective approach for sustainable practices in various fields of construction activity.
The Limits of Green Finance: A Survey of Literature in the Context of Green Bonds and Green Loans
Authors: Gilchrist David , Yu Jing , Zhong Rui
Published: January 2021

In response to the rapid development of green finance, this study evaluates a systematic literature survey with a focus on the determinants and the potential benefits of corporate engagement in environmentally responsible practices in the context of green bonds and green loans. We show that research has discovered that environmentally responsible practices not only enhance shareholder value but also the value accrued to nonfinancial stakeholders. Further, we provide an updated overview of research developments in relation to green bonds and syndicated loans. Lastly, we discuss the limitations in the nascent green finance research and propose new lines of research supporting our aim of advancing our knowledge of sustainable investments.
Hydrochemical and Isotopic Applications in the Western Aosta Valley (Italy) for Sustainable Groundwater Management
Authors: Grappein Barbara , Lasagna Manuela , Capodaglio Pietro , Caselle Chiara , Luca Domenico Antonio De
Published: January 2021

This research gives an overview of the status of water resources in the western Aosta Valley (Italy). Surface water, groundwater and precipitation were sampled during five sampling campaigns, and chemical analyses were performed and interpreted. Stable isotopes (δ18O and δ2H) were evaluated. This study highlights the relationships between water quality and quantity and local conditions (i.e., aquifer lithology, mixing into the aquifer, proximity to towns, contribution of snowmelt and ice melt to groundwater recharge, amount of rain, and season and altitude of the sampling location). A relationship between dust dispersed in the atmosphere as aerosols from the nearby Piedmont Region and the precipitation chemistry was identified, highlighting the presence of interregional conditions. Furthermore, isotopic analyses allowed the identification of aquifer feeding by both rainwater and glacial meltwater. Additionally, two origins for rainfall were identified: the Mediterranean Sea in winter and the Atlantic Ocean in summer. Finally, a local meteoric water line was calibrated for the study area. This research highlights the importance of implementing both traditional and isotopic techniques for water analysis to achieve optimal and sustainable management of water resources.
Design, Analysis, and Comparison of Control Strategies for an Industrial Robotic Arm Driven by a Multi-Level Inverter
Authors: Urrea Claudio , Jara Daniel
Published: January 2021

In this article, we present the design and implementation of different control strategies for the position of a 2-Degree-of-Freedom (DoF) robotic arm, namely gain scheduling per trenches, gain scheduling by interpolation, adaptive control, and fuzzy logic. The first link of this robot is driven by an Alternating Current Brushless Permanent Magnet Motor (ACBPMM) through a three-phase multi-level inverter with 27 levels of voltage per phase. Thanks to the topologies offered by ACBPMMs and to the multi-level inverter, high commutation frequencies are reduced, as observed in the computer simulations. Additionally, to determine which proposed control strategies are the most suitable for an ACBPMM connected to a multi-level inverter, a comparative study on the performance of the controllers implemented for this robot is conducted.