bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Syndromic Familial Mesiodens: Presentation of Three Cases
Authors: Alarcón Josefa , Guzmán Jacob , Masuko Telma S. , Cáceres Pablo Navarro , Fuentes Ramón
Published: August 2022

Mesiodens are the most common supernumerary teeth and are detected incidentally during routine radiographic examination, so late diagnosis complications are very common. The dentist must make a timely diagnosis and thus avoid clinical complications. Despite advances in knowledge of dental morphogenesis and differentiation, the etiology of mesiodens remains unclear. Therefore, several theories have been postulated to explain how and why they develop. It was described in the literature that heredity could play an important role in the appearance of supernumerary teeth, with a higher rate of appearance in relatives of those affected. This article reports three cases, a mother and two children, who present mesiodens, which shows that supernumerary teeth may involve a genetic factor. In addition, a literature review was carried out to assess the importance of the genetic factor as a possible cause of mesiodens. The relevance and implications of timely diagnosis in clinical practice to avoid manifestations of clinical complications are discussed. Therefore, the identification of the genetic risk factors responsible for the formation of supernumerary teeth is essential for developing a screening tool to determine an individual’s genetic risk.
Deep Learning for the Differential Diagnosis between Transient Osteoporosis and Avascular Necrosis of the Hip
Authors: Klontzas Michail E. , Stathis Ioannis , Spanakis Konstantinos , Zibis Aristeidis H. , Marias Kostas , Karantanas Apostolos H.
Published: August 2022

Differential diagnosis between avascular necrosis (AVN) and transient osteoporosis of the hip (TOH) can be complicated even for experienced MSK radiologists. Our study attempted to use MR images in order to develop a deep learning methodology with the use of transfer learning and a convolutional neural network (CNN) ensemble, for the accurate differentiation between the two diseases. An augmented dataset of 210 hips with TOH and 210 hips with AVN was used to finetune three ImageNet-trained CNNs (VGG-16, InceptionResNetV2, and InceptionV3). An ensemble decision was reached in a hard-voting manner by selecting the outcome voted by at least two of the CNNs. Inception-ResNet-V2 achieved the highest AUC (97.62%) similar to the model ensemble, followed by InceptionV3 (AUC of 96.82%) and VGG-16 (AUC 96.03%). Precision for the diagnosis of AVN and recall for the detection of TOH were higher in the model ensemble compared to Inception-ResNet-V2. Ensemble performance was significantly higher than that of an MSK radiologist and a fellow (P < 0.001). Deep learning was highly successful in distinguishing TOH from AVN, with a potential to aid treatment decisions and lead to the avoidance of unnecessary surgery.
PCQNet: A Trainable Feedback Scheme of Precoder for the Uplink Multi-User MIMO Systems
Authors: Bao Xiuwen , Jiang Ming , Fang Wenhao , Zhao Chunming
Published: August 2022

Multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO) technology can significantly improve the spectral and energy efficiencies of wireless networks. In the uplink MU-MIMO systems, the optimal precoder design at the base station utilizes the Lagrange multipliers method and the centralized iterative algorithm to minimize the mean squared error (MSE) of all users under the power constraint. The precoding matrices need to be fed back to the user equipment to explore the potential benefits of the joint transceiver design. We propose a CNN-based compression network named PCQNet to minimize the feedback overhead. We first illustrate the effect of the trainable compression ratios and feedback bits on the MSE between the original precoding matrices and the recovered ones. We then evaluate the block error rates as the performance measure of the centralized implementation with an optimal minimum mean-squared error (MMSE) transceiver. Numerical results show that the proposed PCQNet achieves near-optimal performance compared with other quantized feedback schemes and significantly reduces the feedback overhead with negligible performance degradation.
Rényi’s Entropy, Statistical Order and van der Waals Gas
Authors: Pennini Flavia , Plastino Angelo
Published: August 2022

The notion of statistical order derives from the disequilibrium concept introduced by López-Ruiz, Mancini, and Calbet thirty years ago. In this effort, it is shown that the disequilibrium is intimately linked to the celebrated Rényi entropy. One also explores this link in connection with the van der Waals gas description.
Integral Non-Singular Terminal Sliding Mode Consensus Control for Multi-Agent Systems with Disturbance and Actuator Faults Based on Finite-Time Observer
Authors: Yang Pu , Ding Yu , Shen Ziwei , Feng Kejia
Published: August 2022

This paper studies the consensus fault-tolerant control problem of a class of second-order leader–follower multi-agent systems with unknown disturbance and actuator faults, and proposes an integral non-singular terminal sliding mode control algorithm based on a finite-time observer. First, a finite-time disturbance observer was designed based on a combination of high-order sliding mode and dual layers adaptive rules to realize fast estimation and compensation of disturbance and faults. Then, a sliding surface with additional integral links was designed based on the conventional sliding surface, and an integral non-singular terminal sliding mode controller is proposed to realize the robust consensus in finite time and accurately diminish the chattering phenomena. Finally, a numerical example and simulation verify the effectiveness.
FPGA-Based Hardware Accelerator on Portable Equipment for EEG Signal Patterns Recognition
Authors: Xie Yu , Majoros Tamás , Oniga Stefan
Published: August 2022

Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a recording of comprehensive reflection of physiological brain activities. Because of many reasons, however, including noises of heartbeat artifacts and muscular movements, there are complex challenges for efficient EEG signal classification. The Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) is considered a promising tool for extracting data features. A deep neural network can detect the deeper-level features with a multilayer through nonlinear mapping. However, there are few viable deep learning algorithms applied to BCI systems. This study proposes a more effective acquisition and processing HW-SW method for EEG biosignal. First, we use a consumer-grade EEG acquisition device to record EEG signals. Short-time Fourier transform (STFT) and Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) methods will be used for data preprocessing. Compared with other algorithms, the CWT-CNN algorithm shows a better classification accuracy. The research result shows that the best classification accuracy of the CWT-CNN algorithm is 91.65%. On the other side, CNN inference requires many convolution operations. We further propose a lightweight CNN inference hardware accelerator framework to speed up inference calculation, and we verify and evaluate its performance. The proposed framework performs network tasks quickly and precisely while using less logical resources on the PYNQ-Z2 FPGA development board.
Practical Performance Analyses of 5G Sharing Voice Solution
Authors: Li Xiao , Wei Mingshuo , Xie Weiliang
Published: August 2022

Sharing network infrastructure is carried out by a few network operators in the world and is regarded as an effective means to accelerate the commercial 5G with seamless coverage and user experience guarantees but significantly reduced investment. Voice via IMS has been defined as the voice-bearing solution from 3rd-Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Release 5. Release 15 pointed out that 5G still adopts the IMS-based voice service architecture. In such a background, and in the process of global 5G network evolution from non-stand-alone (NSA) to stand-alone (SA), how to bear 5G voice services in the sharing network infrastructure has quite a few technical options. This paper investigates the 5G access network sharing technical solutions and presents the voice bearer technology under different new radio (NR) evolution stages. Analysis was performed for the different stages of voice handover. Performance results from field tests are provided to verify the feasibility of the solution, and performance analysis such as end-to-end call setup delay was also carried out. From the theoretical and practical analysis, the voice over long-term evolution (VoLTE) non-back-to-home solution has a relatively short access delay in the NSA sharing stage; EPS fallback based on either handover or redirection introduces a large time delay, so EPS fallback can only be used as a transition solution in the early stage of SA sharing deployment; voice over new radio (VoNR) has the lowest access time delay and the simplest implementation solution, so it is the final voice solution for 5G SA sharing network. The comparison of different voice-bearing solutions in different network development stages provides a reference for countries around the world.
N-Versions-Based Resilient Traffic Control Systems
Authors: Basuhail Abdullah , Khemakhem Maher , Eassa Fathy Elbouraey , Qurashi Junaid Mohammad , Jambi Kamal
Published: August 2022

Increasing the resilience of traffic control systems is a priority for many important cities worldwide. This is due to the ever-increasing problems leading to different failures in such systems. We are witnessing the intensive introduction of new technologies that automatically manage traffic but are exposed to different kinds of attacks. There are also unpredictable increases in climatic changes and the number of cars in many cities. These factors will surely enhance the failure risks of such systems and consequently increase the damage caused by traffic jams and road accidents. In this paper, we introduce a resilient traffic control system that consists of three levels: sensor control, display, and light control. Each level has three (or more) versions and a dynamic voter. Hence, the introduced system is based on diversity and redundancy (replication), called N-versions. We propose two techniques for the introduced resilient traffic control system. The first technique uses N-versions and dynamic voters to vote between the outcomes in each level. The second technique uses N-versions, dynamic voters, and acceptance testing units. The overhead in the second technique is evidently greater than that of the first technique, but its resilience is better. A fine analytical study is conducted and shows that the first technique requires only three versions to reach the optimal results, bounded by 1/15 probability of having a faulty system. The second technique leads to better results, which can determine small probabilities.
An Overview of Systolic Arrays for Forward and Inverse Discrete Sine Transforms and Their Exploitation in View of an Improved Approach
Authors: Chiper Doru Florin , Cracan Arcadie , Andries Vasilica-Daniela
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to present a unified overview of the main Very Large-Scale Integration (VLSI) implementation solutions of forward and inverse discrete sine transforms using systolic arrays. The main features of the most important solutions to implement the forward and inverse discrete sine transform (DST) using systolic arrays are presented. One of the central ideas presented in the paper is to emphasize the advantages of using regular and modular systolic array computational structures such as cyclic convolution, circular correlation, and pseudo-band correlation in the VLSI implementation of these transforms. The use of such computational structures leads to architectures well adapted to the features of VLSI technologies, with an efficient use of the hardware structures and a reduced I/O cost that helps avoiding the so-called I/O bottleneck. With the techniques presented in this review, we have developed a new VLSI implementation of the DST using systolic arrays that allow efficient hardware implementation with reduced complexity while maintaining high-speed performances. Using a new restructuring input sequence, we have been able to efficiently reformulate the computation of the forward DST transform into a special computational structure using eight short quasi-cycle convolutions that can be computed with low complexity and where some of the coefficients are identical. This leads to a hardware structure with high throughput. The new restructuring sequence is the use of the input samples in a natural order as opposed to previous solutions, leading to a significant reduction of the hardware complexity in the pre-processing stage due to avoiding a permutation stage to reverse the order. Moreover, the proposed VLSI architecture allows an efficient incorporation of the obfuscation technique with very low overheads.
Generation of Surface Maps of Erosion Resistance for Wind Turbine Blades under Rain Flows
Authors: Castorrini Alessio , Venturini Paolo , Bonfiglioli Aldo
Published: August 2022

Rain erosion on wind turbine blades raises considerable interest in wind energy industry and research, and the definition of accurate erosion prediction systems can facilitate a rapid development of solutions for blade protection. We propose here the application of a novel methodology able to integrate a multibody aeroelastic simulation of the whole wind turbine, based on engineering models, with high-fidelity simulations of aerodynamics and particle transport and with semi-empirical models for the prediction of the damage incubation time. This methodology is applied to generate a parametric map of the blade regions potentially affected by erosion in terms of the fatigue life of the coating surface. This map can represent an important reference for the evaluation of the sustainability of maintenance, control and mitigation interventions.
Solar-Driven Sorption System for Seasonal Heat Storage under Optimal Control: Study for Different Climatic Zones
Authors: Crespo Alicia , Fernández Cèsar , de Gracia Alvaro , Frazzica Andrea
Published: August 2022

Solar thermal energy coupled to a seasonal sorption storage system stands as an alternative to fossil fuels to supply residential thermal energy demand in climates where solar energy availability is high in summer and low in winter, matching with a high space heating demand. Sorption storage systems usually have a high dependency on weather conditions (ambient temperature and solar irradiation). Therefore, in this study, the technical performance of a solar-driven seasonal sorption storage system, using an innovative composite sorbent and water as working fluid, was studied under three European climates, represented by: Paris, Munich, and Stockholm. All scenarios analyses were simulation-based under optimal system control, which allowed to maximize the system competitiveness by minimizing the system operational costs. The optimal scenarios profit from just 91, 82 and 76% of the total sorption system capacity, for Paris, Munich, and Stockholm, respectively. That means that an optimal control can identify the optimal sorption storage size for each location and avoid oversizing in future systems, which furthermore involves higher investment costs. The best coefficient of performance was obtained for Stockholm (0.31), despite having the coldest climate. The sorption system was able to work at minimum temperatures of −15 °C, showing independence from ambient temperature during its discharge. In conclusion, a seasonal sorption system based on selective water materials is suitable to be integrated into a single-family house in climates of central and northern Europe as long as an optimal control based on weather conditions, thermal demand, and system state is considered.
Techno-Economic Evaluation of a Hybrid Energy System for an Educational Institution: A Case Study
Authors: Gbadamosi Saheed Lekan , Ogunje Fejiro S. , Wara Samuel Tita , Nwulu Nnamdi I.
Published: August 2022

This study evaluates the technical, economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy resources (RER) for electricity supply to large size buildings in an educational institution. The cost of energy generation coupled with the epileptic power supply has led to the demand for an alternative source of energy supply to an education institution in Nigeria. The essence of renewable energy generation is becoming more glaring and a hybrid energy system (HES) is believed to deliver efficient and sustainable energy for the institutions; this paper aims to analyse the techno-economic assessment of a HES design setup at the College of Engineering, Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti for powering the university buildings; this grid connected system was assessed with various system configurations was simulated using hybrid optimization model for electric renewables (HOMER) software and the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) with the consideration of the HES benefits was developed. The results obtained from the simulation indicate that the grid and solar Photovoltaic (PV) system provide an optimal system that adequately meets the load demand with more renewable energy integration and this significantly reduces the cost of energy by 45% and also causes a 32.09% reduction in CO2 emissions; this configuration is environmentally sustainable and financially suitable for electrifying an educational institution.
A High-Power-Density Active-Clamp Converter with Integrated Planar Transformer
Authors: Lee Dae-Woo , Lim Ji-Hoon , Lee Dong-In , Youn Han-Shin
Published: August 2022

This paper proposes an active-clamp forward-flyback (ACFF) converter with an integrated planar transformer for wide-input voltage and high-output current applications, such as low-voltage direct-current (LDC) converters in electric vehicles. An integrated planar transformer that consists of a forward-flyback transformer, single primary winding, and efficient structure of secondary windings is adopted for the proposed converter, and since this transformer is implemented with a common four-layer printed circuit board (PCB) winding, a high power density and low cost of the proposed converter can be achieved. In addition, due to the low leakage inductance induced by the planar transformer, a reduced commutation period can be achieved, and it is possible to increase the switching frequency resulting in low volume of transformer. Although the integrated planar transformer has relatively high conduction loss, the active-clamp topology can significantly reduce the conduction loss on switches compared with widely used full-bridge (FB) converters because it only utilizes two switches and shows the low circulating current. As a result, the proposed converter with an integrated planar transformer has strengths in high power density and cost competitiveness without degraded efficiency, and it is a very attractive topology for LDC converters and other applications that require wide-input voltage and high-output current.
Exploring the Influence of the Parameters’ Relationship between Reliability and Maintainability for Offshore Wind Farm Engineering
Authors: Chung I-Hua
Published: August 2022

The two main research goals of this study are to develop a relationship diagram between the parameters of reliability and maintainability and to investigate the impact of reliability and maintenance on engineering design costs. In this study, we use the theory of reliability and maintainability parameters to derive the relationship between the parameters using block diagrams. Compared with onshore wind farms, offshore wind farms have higher reliability requirements, but the maintenance degree of offshore wind farms is lower due to environmental factors. This study proposes an important concept of reliability and maintenance for value engineering, which can help system design engineers and project engineers integrate reliability concerns in the design phase and operation and maintenance phase.
Determining the Power and Capacity of Electricity Storage in Cooperation with the Microgrid for the Implementation of the Price Arbitration Strategy of Industrial Enterprises Installation
Authors: Kuźniak Rafał , Pawelec Artur , Bartosik Artur S. , Pawelczyk Marek
Published: August 2022

The growing worldwide costs of energy produced as a result of conventional fuel combustion, the limited capacity of the distribution grid, and the growing number of unstable installations based on renewable energy sources increase the need to implement systems of stabilization and regulate loads for end users. The battery energy storage system (BESS) that operates in the internal microgrid of an enterprise enables the management of the accumulated energy in any time zone of the day. Using a price arbitrage strategy with an electricity storage facility, we can reduce the cost of high electricity prices during peak demand periods. This study aims to determine the most effective method of setting up the capacity and electrical power of an energy storage system operating in a microgrid, in an enterprise to implement a price arbitration strategy. Such a method should include consideration of the characteristics of the demand profile of consumer systems, the charges related to electricity, and electricity storage costs. The proposed deterministic method is based on the use of a defined parameter, “marginal income elasticity”. In this study, the size of energy storage refers to the power and electric capacity of BESS that are used for the implementation of the price arbitrage strategy.
Diagnosis and Location of Power Cable Faults Based on Characteristic Frequencies of Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Gen , Chen Jie , Li Hongze , Hu Libin , Zhou Wenjun , Zhou Chengke , Li Mingzhen
Published: August 2022

Power cable condition diagnosis and deterioration location rely on signatures of aging characteristics which precede the final breakdown. The purpose of this study was to investigate how to diagnose and locate the aging and/or deterioration of power cables through the analysis of the impedance spectroscopy. The concepts of the reference frequency and characteristic frequency of cable impedance spectroscopy are defined for the first time. Based on the reference frequency, the optimal frequency range for analysis of impedance spectroscopy can be determined, whilst based on characteristic frequency, a set of criteria for assessing cable conditions are examined and established. The solution proposed in this paper has the advantage of being easier to implement than the previously reported “broadband” impedance spectroscopy methods, as it helps to reduce the frequency range for measurement instrumentations; the proposed method also does not need the measurements of the parameters of the cable being tested.
Impacts of the Russia-Ukraine War on Global Food Security: Towards More Sustainable and Resilient Food Systems?
Authors: Ben Hassen Tarek , El Bilali Hamid
Published: August 2022

As a conflict between two major agricultural powers, the Russia–Ukraine war has various negative socioeconomic impacts that are now being felt internationally and might worsen, notably, for global food security. If the war deepens, the food crisis will worsen, posing a challenge to many countries, especially those that rely on food imports, such as those in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Simultaneously, the war came at a bad time for global food markets because food prices were already high due to disruptions in the supply chain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, strong global demand, and poor harvests in some countries. Understanding how conflict-related disruptions in global food and fertilizer markets might affect price and availability is critical for understanding the overall impact on global food security. Further, four months into the war, its implications for food security suggest that this review is timely, urgent, and highly needed. Accordingly, this paper aims to investigate the Russia–Ukraine war’s direct and indirect impact on global food security. The paper highlights that the war resulted in immediate and far-reaching cascading consequences on global food security: Ukrainian exports have stopped, conscription and population displacement have caused labor shortages, access to fertilizers is restricted, and future harvests are uncertain. First, Ukraine’s export capacity has been hampered. Secondly, conscription and population displacement caused labor shortages. Thirdly, access to vital agricultural products such as fertilizers is also constrained. The war may delay spring planting and winter crop harvesting. Further, the war has indirect and cascading effects. Indeed, rising fertilizer costs may reduce their use and crop yields. Moreover, as seen during the 2007–2008 food crisis, export restrictions and speculation are driving up international prices and worsening the situation. Furthermore, the war triggered a panic buying movement at country and individual levels. Finally, the war may jeopardize the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 1 (No poverty), SDG 2 (Zero hunger), and DG 12 (Responsible consumption and production). However, the consequences of the war on food security are being exacerbated by a variety of underlying rigidities, vulnerabilities, and inefficiencies in global food systems. Accordingly, the transition toward healthy, equitable, and ecologically sustainable food systems must be strengthened by adopting urgent and long-term reforms and policies.
Effects of Different Storage Temperatures on Bacterial Communities and Functional Potential in Pork Meat
Authors: Zhao Fan , Wei Zhenqian , Zhou Guanghong , Kristiansen Karsten , Wang Chong
Published: August 2022

Storage temperature is considered one of the most important factors that affect the microbial spoilage of fresh meat. Chilling and superchilling are the most popular storage techniques on the market, but during transportation, the temperature may reach 10 °C and may even reach room temperature during local retail storage. In the present study, we stored fresh pork meat at different temperatures, −2 °C, 4 °C, 10 °C, and 25 °C. The composition and functional potential of fresh or spoiled meat resident microbes were analyzed based on 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The microbial composition exhibited high similarity between pork meat stored at −2 °C and 4 °C, with Pseudomonads and Brochothrix being the dominant taxa. Acinetobacter sp., Myroides sp., and Kurthia sp. were markers for spoiled pork meat stored at 25 °C. Both psychrophilic and mesophilic bacteria were observed to grow under a storage temperature of 10 °C, but the overall composition and functional potential based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were found to be similar to that of meat stored at room temperature. Our results broaden the knowledge of possible microbial changes in pork meat during storage, transportation, or retail.
The Influence of Public Transportation Stops on Bike-Sharing Destination Trips: Spatial Analysis of Budapest City
Authors: Jaber Ahmed , Abu Baker Laila , Csonka Bálint
Published: August 2022

This research looks at how spatial factors of public transportation influence the use of bike-sharing in an urban context. Based on a grid-cell-based method, ordinary least square regression and geographically weighted regression (GWR) are developed to reveal the link between the spatial distribution of bus, tram, rail stops, and bike-sharing trips. The public transportation coverage in Budapest City is rated as excellent, with all parts of the city covered within a 5 km radius. We find that areas with a high proportion of public transportation stops have a significantly higher number of bike-sharing trips. Bike-sharing trips are concentrated near regional railway stations, the central business district, and surrounding zones. The connection between bike-sharing and trams/rails appears to be stronger than the connection between bike-sharing and buses. According to the findings, nearly one-third of public transportation stops have accessible bike docks within 125 m walking distance. In GWR analysis, the coefficients of bus stops are increasing towards the center of the city, while the coefficients of tram/rail stops are decreasing. Finally, by examining the priority zones for establishing more bike-sharing facilities, it is discovered that the eastern side of the city requires more development than the western side because it has a high number of bike-sharing trips but no adequate facilities near public transportation facilities.
Internet-Related Instruments (Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale, Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short Form, and Nomophobia Questionnaire) and Their Associations with Distress among Malaysian University Students
Authors: Tung Serene , Gan Wan , Chen Jung-Sheng , Ruckwongpatr Kamolthip , Pramukti Iqbal , Nadhiroh Siti , Chang Yen-Ling , Lin Chien-Chin , Pakpour Amir , Lin Chung-Ying , Griffiths Mark
Published: August 2022

The present study evaluated the psychometric properties of four instruments related to internet use, namely the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS), Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale (SABAS), (nine-item) Internet Gaming Disorder Scale Short Form (IGDS9-SF), and Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMPQ) as well as their associations with psychological distress among Malaysian university students. A total of 380 Malaysian university students (71.6% females, mean age 24.0 years) were recruited through convenience sampling and completed an online survey including questions concerning socio-demographic background, social media addiction, smartphone addiction, internet gaming disorder, and nomophobia. Confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch analysis were applied to evaluate the psychometric properties of the instruments and Cronbach’s alpha value and McDonald’s omega value were used to confirm the internal consistency reliability of the instruments. The unidimensional structure was confirmed for the BSMAS, SABAS, and IGDS9-SF while the four-factor structure was confirmed for NMPQ. All instruments showed good internal consistency reliability. Promising validity and reliability were confirmed for BSMAS, SABAS, IGDS9-SF, and NMPQ. Therefore, they are useful to assess different types of problematic internet use among university students in Malaysia. Furthermore, a significant association was observed between internet use and psychological distress. The present study is the first to investigate the validity and reliability of BSMAS, SABAS, IGDS9-SF, and NMPQ among Malaysian university students using rigorous psychometric testing methods (i.e., Rasch analysis).
Influence of the Noise-Canceling Technology on How We Hear Sounds
Authors: Seol Hye-Yoon , Kim Seo-Hu , Kim Ga-Young , Jo Mini , Cho Young-Sang , Hong Sung-Hwa , Moon Il-Joon
Published: August 2022

Purpose: This study explores the influence of the noise-canceling technology in commercial earphones on sound pressure levels and preferred listening levels in terms of hearing protection. Materials and Methods: Thirty individuals completed puretone audiometry and real-ear measurements to assess sound pressure levels at the level of the eardrum with and without the activation of the noise-canceling function. The Knowles Electronics Manikin for Acoustic Research was used to investigate the acoustic characteristics of two environmental sounds (bus and café). Two types of earphones (wireless and wired canal type) were utilized in the study. Results: For both bus and café noises, in the low-frequency range, sound pressure levels were significantly decreased for all types of earphones when the noise-canceling function was turned on. The same results were observed for the whole frequency range. In terms of preferred listening levels, the wireless canal type and wired canal type earphones showed significant reduction in volume levels. Conclusion: The findings of the study show that for both low- and whole frequency range, the use of noise-canceling function significantly decreases the sound pressure levels of the signal for all styles of earphones, suggesting a potential of the noise-canceling technology in hearing protection.
Improving Special Ability Performance of Badminton Players through a Visual Reaction Training System
Authors: Kuo Kuei-Pin , Liao Chun-Chin , Kao Chun-Chieh
Published: August 2022

This study investigates the effects of a visual reaction training system (VRTS) in improving the footwork of badminton players. The participants comprised 20 high school male badminton players (mean age, 17.83 ± 1.57 years; mean height, 171.4 ± 11.52 cm; mean weight, 58.76 ± 9.32 kg) who first underwent a badminton footwork agility training program and subsequently, a fixed or random six-point footwork test and an agility t-test. A one-way repeated-measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction was performed to identify differences in terms of response time, movement time, and total shift time. The results measured at midtest and posttest after the training intervention revealed significant improvements in reaction (p ≤ 0.01) and movement (p ≤ 0.05) time for the fixed six-point footwork test (p ≤ 0.01). The total time results for the fixed or random six-point footwork test and agility t-test at midtest and posttest after the training intervention revealed significant improvement (p ≤ 0.05). Badminton footwork agility training conducted through the VRTS enhances the ability and agility of badminton players. Therefore, researchers and coaches should evaluate the footwork of badminton players by precisely measuring and quantify their ability.
The Shifting Baseline Syndrome and Generational Amnesia in Heritage Studies
Authors: Spennemann Dirk H. R.
Published: August 2022

It is widely understood that the preservation of cultural heritage sites and objects is underpinned by values projected by the public onto essentially inanimate objects, that these values vary in strength, and that they are mutable qualities. Using hindsight, the contemporary values are projected on past creations that persist into the present. If deemed significant, these past creations will be listed on heritage lists and afforded various levels of protection. As time moves on, new places or objects will be deemed significant and added to the lists. Using a case study, this paper examines the concept of shifting baselines and how they impact on the identification and listing/protection of heritage places. It will demonstrate that generational biases play a significant role in the initial listing and exert a lasting legacy through the static nature of heritage listings.
Towards the Optimal Mineral N Fertilization for Improving Peeled Tomato Quality Grown in Southern Italy
Authors: Parisi Mario , Burato Andrea , Pentangelo Alfonso , Ronga Domenico
Published: August 2022

Nitrogen (N) fertilization has often been used in excess by farmers to improve commercial yield and the profitability of processing tomato crops. However, N fertilizers greatly affect the overall tomato quality, including technological traits, nutritional characteristics, and mineral fruit composition. The aim of this work was to study the effects of increasing mineral N fertilization rates on processing tomato yield and quality when grown in Southern Italy conditions. The study was carried out at Battipaglia (Southern Italy) cropping cultivar “Messapico”, suitable for peeled tomato, and fruit quality was evaluated at the ripening stage. Results showed that N fertilization reduced sunburned fruits and resulted in increasing total yield, average fruit weight, as well as other fruit parameters (size, firmness, color indexes, pH, N, and calcium content). On the other hand, N fertilization negatively affected other fruit traits, such as dry matter and soluble solids content, total sugar index, ascorbic acid, and sodium content, while it had no effect on potassium and magnesium concentration in tomato fruits. Our results show that, in the investigated area, 200 kg N ha−1 is the best compromise to satisfy farmers and processors expectations, improve yield, and at the same time maintain good fruit quality attributes.
Volatiles of Zanthoxylum limoncello as Antifungal Agents against the Postharvest Rot of Manzano Pepper Triggered by Fusarium temperatum
Authors: Romero-Arenas Omar , Pérez-Vázquez Marco A. Kevin , Rivera Antonio , Pacheco-Hernández Yesenia , Ramirez-Garcia Sergio Alberto , Landeta-Cortés Gerardo , Villa-Ruano Nemesio
Published: August 2022

The manzano pepper (Capsicum pubescens) is an exportation product that generates substantial earnings for local producers in Mexico. Herein we report on the most relevant metabolic changes that occur during the postharvest rot of manzano peppers caused by Fusarium temperatum. Simultaneously, we describe the effect of the Zanthoxylum limoncello leaf essential oil (ZlEO) and its major volatiles on the control of this devastating disease. According to our results, ZlEO, 2-undecanone (34%), 2-undecenal (32%), and 2-dodecenal (8%) exerted in vitro fungicide activity on F. temperatum (MIC, 104.6–218.3 mg L−1) and a strong in situ fungistatic effect in manzano peppers previously infected with F. temperatum. A differential fungistatic activity was observed for the natural agents assayed. However, the best results were confirmed with 2-dodecenal, which improved the shelf life of infected peppers up to 16 d post-inoculation. The protective effect of ZlEO and its major volatiles resulted in the conservation of fruit firmness, pH, protein, fat, fiber, ascorbic acid, and nutraceuticals of manzano peppers (carotenoids and capsaicinoids). Our findings endorse the potential use of ZlEO and its major volatiles as natural antifungals to prevent the soft rot triggered by F. temperatum.
Effects of the Digital Economy on Carbon Emissions: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhu Zhichuan , Liu Bo , Yu Zhuoxi , Cao Jianhong
Published: August 2022

In order to reduce carbon emissions for sustainable development, we analyzed the impact of China’s digital economy development on carbon emissions. Based on the panel data of 30 Chinese provinces from 2009 to 2019, we measured the level of development of China’s digital economy using the entropy method. The relationship between the digital economy and carbon emissions was analyzed from multiple perspectives with the help of the fixed-effects model, the mediated-effects model and the spatial econometric model. The results indicate that the digital economy plays a significant inhibitory role in carbon emissions. In addition, the digital economy inhibits carbon emissions through the innovation effect and the industrial structure upgrading effect. Moreover, the digital economy exhibits a significant spatial spillover effect in dampening carbon emissions. Finally, there is regional heterogeneity in the direct and spatial spillover effect. The findings provide a basis for the digital economy to contribute to carbon emissions reduction and provide relevant policy references for achieving carbon neutrality and sustainable development.
Evaluation of a Hybrid Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Program in Acute Coronary Syndrome Low-Risk Patients Organised in Both Cardiac Rehabilitation and Sport Centres: A Model Feasibility Study
Authors: Meslet Jean-Baptiste , Dugué Benoit , Brisset Ugo , Pianeta Alain , Kubas Sophie
Published: August 2022

The aim of the study was to investigate the efficiency, the feasibility, and the safety of a hybrid cardiovascular rehabilitation program in low-risk acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients. Sixty low-risk patients with stable clinical status who experienced an ACS in the previous 3 months were included in a 3-week rehabilitation program. The patients were randomized either to a group performing the rehabilitation totally in a rehabilitation centre or partially (only the first 5 days) and then in sport centres equipped for supervised adapted physical activities. The sport centres were located in the vicinity of the patient’s home. Both rehabilitation programs entailed endurance and resistance training and educational therapy. Before and after rehabilitation, cardiorespiratory functions were measured. Similar and significant improvements in peak V.O2 and power output were seen in patients after both types of rehabilitation (p < 0.05). No particular complications were associated with both of our programs. We conclude that a hybrid rehabilitation program in low-risk ACS patients is feasible, safe, and as beneficial as a traditional program organised in a rehabilitation centre, at least in a short-term. A longitudinal follow-up should nevertheless be organised to examine the long-term impacts of this hybrid rehabilitation program.
Why Are Patients Unhappy with Their Healthcare? A Romanian Physicians’ Perspective
Authors: Hanganu Bianca , Manoilescu Irina Smaranda , Paparau Cristian , Gheuca-Solovastru Laura , Buhas Camelia Liana , Szalontay Andreea Silvana , Ioan Beatrice Gabriela
Published: August 2022

Background: Medical professional liability complaints are not triggered by a single factor, but rather by multiple factors, each having more or less implications, such as the characteristics of the physician, the medical system, the patients, the complexity of their pathology, and the inherent limits of medicine. Knowledge about the factors that initiate the complaint procedure is essential to identify the targeted measures to limit their prevalence and impact. The purpose of this study was to identify the reasons behind the malpractice complaints and the factors that may influence the initiation of complaints by the patients. Material and Methods: This study was conducted using an online questionnaire, addressed to Romanian doctors, with questions about the reasons for patient dissatisfaction and complaints, the factors that predispose a physician to being complained against, and the protective factors against patient complaints. Results: The study group included 1684 physicians, of whom 16.1% were themselves involved in a complaint, and 52.5% knew of a colleague who was complained against. The opinions of the participants regarding the reasons for the complaints, the predisposing factors to complaints, and the factors that contributed to the reported incident showed a strong link between professional liability complaints and the physician–patient/patient’s family relationship. The relationship between fellow physicians is additional to this. Conclusion: This study reveals that the improvement in the relational aspects of medical practice (physician–patient relationship and relationship between physicians) has the highest potential to decrease the number of malpractice complaints. Its practical relevance is related to the need for training physicians in the relational aspects of medical practice during academic years and throughout their career.
Association between Media Use and Bedtime Delays in Young Children: An Adjunct Study of the Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Yamamoto Midori , Mezawa Hidetoshi , Sakurai Kenichi , Mori Chisato
Published: August 2022

Excessive screen media use has been reported to cause shorter sleep; however, the types of media environments that affect early childhood sleep are less known. This study examined the association of multiple media use, screen time for each device, and the purpose of smartphone and tablet use with delayed bedtime among 4–8-year-olds. Participants were recruited from the Japan Environment and Children’s Study, a nationwide birth cohort study. Mothers of 1837 children reported screen media use and bedtime in a questionnaire. The association between delayed bedtimes (after 22:00 h) and media device use (smartphones, tablets, portable and console games, and TV/DVDs) was examined by logistic regression analysis. Children who used three or more devices besides TV/DVDs were more likely to have delayed bedtimes. Delayed bedtimes were associated with smartphone use, even with a 0.1–1 h/day screen time, and with prolonged screen time for tablets, portable games, and console games, but not for TV/DVDs. Gaming on smartphones and tablets was also associated with delayed bedtime. To ensure adequate sleep for young children, families must develop feasible measures to discourage children’s use of multiple devices and prolonged device use, especially for games, and a social environment that supports such measures.
Feasibility of a Social Network-Based Physical Activity Intervention Targeting Vocational School Students: A Pilot Study
Authors: Günther Liane , Schleberger Sarah , Pischke Claudia R.
Published: August 2022

Globally, four out of five adolescents do not meet the recommendations for physical activity (PA). Moving large segments of young adults from inactivity to activity is essential to reach the global target of a 15% relative reduction in inactivity by 2030 worldwide. This study aimed to examine the feasibility of a social network-based PA intervention (WALK2gether) in vocational school students. Fourteen students from one vocational school in the city of Duesseldorf were instructed to walk ten thousand steps per day over six weeks. Applied behavior change techniques were self-monitoring of steps and social comparison via a pedometer app and a Facebook group. Indicators of feasibility were documented. The intervention was minimally resource intensive, with a total of 92 h spent by the research staff. The recruitment rate was 19.2% and loss-to-follow up 28.6%. Our data revealed no significant change in the target behavior PA from baseline to follow-up. The target population did not interact in the Facebook group, while a moderate use of the pedometer app was noted. Although the results ought to be interpreted with caution due to the small sample size, the findings suggest that the WALK2gether intervention was partially feasible, but not appropriate for the target group.
Prenatal Effects of Nicotine on Obesity Risks: A Narrative Review
Authors: White Olivia , Roeder Nicole , Blum Kenneth , Eiden Rina D. , Thanos Panayotis K.
Published: August 2022

Nicotine usage by mothers throughout pregnancy has been observed to relate to numerous deleterious effects in children, especially relating to obesity. Children who have prenatally been exposed to nicotine tend to have lower birth weights, with an elevated risk of becoming overweight throughout development and into their adolescent and adult life. There are numerous theories as to how this occurs: catch-up growth theory, thrifty phenotype theory, neurotransmitter or endocrine imbalances theory, and a more recent examination on the genetic factors relating to obesity risk. In addition to the negative effect on bodyweight and BMI, individuals with obesity may also suffer from numerous comorbidities involving metabolic disease. These may include type 1 and 2 diabetes, high cholesterol levels, and liver disease. Predisposition for obesity with nicotine usage may also be associated with genetic risk alleles for obesity, such as the DRD2 A1 variant. This is important for prenatally nicotine-exposed individuals as an opportunity to provide early prevention and intervention of obesity-related risks.