bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of COVID-19 Risk in Public Areas Using IoT and Machine Learning
Authors: Elbasi Ersin , Topcu Ahmet E. , Mathew Shinu
Published: July 2021

COVID-19 is a community-acquired infection with symptoms that resemble those of influenza and bacterial pneumonia. Creating an infection control policy involving isolation, disinfection of surfaces, and identification of contagions is crucial in eradicating such pandemics. Incorporating social distancing could also help stop the spread of community-acquired infections like COVID-19. Social distancing entails maintaining certain distances between people and reducing the frequency of contact between people. Meanwhile, a significant increase in the development of different Internet of Things (IoT) devices has been seen together with cyber-physical systems that connect with physical environments. Machine learning is strengthening current technologies by adding new approaches to quickly and correctly solve problems utilizing this surge of available IoT devices. We propose a new approach using machine learning algorithms for monitoring the risk of COVID-19 in public areas. Extracted features from IoT sensors are used as input for several machine learning algorithms such as decision tree, neural network, naïve Bayes classifier, support vector machine, and random forest to predict the risks of the COVID-19 pandemic and calculate the risk probability of public places. This research aims to find vulnerable populations and reduce the impact of the disease on certain groups using machine learning models. We build a model to calculate and predict the risk factors of populated areas. This model generates automated alerts for security authorities in the case of any abnormal detection. Experimental results show that we have high accuracy with random forest of 97.32%, with decision tree of 94.50%, and with the naïve Bayes classifier of 99.37%. These algorithms indicate great potential for crowd risk prediction in public areas.
A Quantitative Model to Evaluate Serendipity in Hypertext
Authors: Kim Yuri , Han Bin , Kim Jihyun , Song Jisoo , Kang Seoyeon , Park Seongbin
Published: July 2021

Serendipity is the phenomenon of people making unexpected and beneficial discoveries. While research on the mechanism and effectiveness of serendipity in information acquisition has been actively conducted, little attempt has been made to quantify serendipity when it occurs. In this paper, we present a quantitative model that measures serendipity experienced by users in a hypertext environment. In order to propose an evaluation model that measures how probable users would experience serendipitous moments in the process of an active search, we define a serendipitous discovery as an unexpected discovery that can happen during a sidetracked search. The proposed model consists of three parts: (a) pre-encountering—how early the user falls into the sidetracked search in the process of an active search; (b) post-encountering—the degree of interests of the entire process from the active search to obtaining unxpected information; and (c) discovery—the degree of the unexpectedness of the information obtained from the discovery. We evaluated the proposed model against examples with different structures and the potential serendipity values computed indicated the difference between the spaces in a meaningful way.
A Survey of MMIC Active Filters
Authors: Pantoli Leonardo , Leuzzi Giorgio , Deborgies Francois , Jankovic Petar , Vitulli Francesco
Published: July 2021

High-Q filters are a critical component in many systems. However, high-Q filters require very low-loss passive elements that are not compatible with monolithic technology. Therefore, filters are often implemented as off-chip components. Tunable high-Q filters require even larger space and weight, and are usually quite bulky. Active filters have been proposed in the past for a monolithic implementation. However, it is not easy to fulfil such requirements as a high dynamic range, low power consumption, low noise, wide tunability, stability, etc. With this study, we propose a survey of the main solutions presented in the literature, investigating the fulfilment of all or most requirements and their potential applications and feasibility, to be used in practical applications.
Implementation of Non-Isolated Zeta-KY Triple Port Converter for Renewable Energy Applications
Authors: Chandran Ilambirai Raghavan , Ramasamy Sridhar , Ahsan Mominul , Haider Julfikar , Rodrigues Eduardo M. G.
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes a three-port Zeta-KY dc-dc converter which is fed with hybrid sources like photovoltaic (PV) cells and batteries. The converter proposed here is a multi-input single-output (MISO) structure which harnesses the benefits of Zeta and KY converters. The combination of these converters is highly advantageous since the Zeta converter provides lesser output voltage ripples with high gain and the KY converter topology suits well for withstanding load transients. The KY converter used in this research work is subjected to a topological change to facilitate bidirectional power flow. The bidirectional flow is essential to save the excess power in PV source in batteries during low load conditions. This novel multiport topology with bidirectional facility is first of its kind and has not been discussed earlier in the research arena. In the proposed work, two control algorithms are developed and deployed: the first one ensures the maximum power extraction from the PV and the second one maintains constant dc bus voltage and manages bidirectional power flow. MATLAB Simulink and hardware prototype of the proposed system has been realized for a 72 V dc bus and a 500 W electric vehicular drive. The simulation and experimental results reveal that the proposed system is viable for medium power electric shuttle applications. The proposed system is subjected to various test cases and it is observed that the source and load intermittencies are catered very well by the proposed three port Zeta-KY converter. The developed multiport converter is feasible for renewable energy applications.
Experimental Cyber Attack Detection Framework
Authors: Mironeanu Cătălin , Archip Alexandru , Amarandei Cristian-Mihai , Craus Mitică
Published: July 2021

Digital security plays an ever-increasing, crucial role in today’s information-based society. The variety of threats and attack patterns has dramatically increased with the advent of digital transformation in our lives. Researchers in both public and private sectors have tried to identify new means to counteract these threats, seeking out-of-the-box ideas and novel approaches. Amongst these, data analytics and artificial intelligence/machine learning tools seem to gain new ground in digital defence. However, such instruments are used mainly offline with the purpose of auditing existing IDS/IDPS solutions. We submit a novel concept for integrating machine learning and analytical tools into a live intrusion detection and prevention solution. This approach is named the Experimental Cyber Attack Detection Framework (ECAD). The purpose of this framework is to facilitate research of on-the-fly security applications. By integrating offline results in real-time traffic analysis, we could determine the type of network access as a legitimate or attack pattern, and discard/drop the latter. The results are promising and show the benefits of such a tool in the early prevention stages of both known and unknown cyber-attack patterns.
Analytical Winding Power Loss Calculation in Gapped Magnetic Components
Authors: Holguín Fermín A. , Prieto Roberto , Asensi Rafael , Cobos José A.
Published: July 2021

The analytical calculation of winding loss in gapped magnetic components is complex, and numerical analysis tools, such as finite elements analysis (FEA) tools, are commonly needed to characterize the windings. As FEA tools are used, the required design time of these types of components increases greatly when many simulations are needed to select the appropriate component for a given application, and simple analytical models become necessary to reduce the design time. In this paper, some analytical approaches for winding loss calculation in gapped magnetic components are reviewed and a general two-dimensional equivalent method, which aims to consider the frequency effects in conductors in a simplified manner, is proposed afterward. Due to its simplicity, it can be integrated into design and optimization tools in order to evaluate the influence of the air gap over the winding loss even at the early stages of the design process. The presented model shows good agreement with FEA simulations and measurements.
Evaluation of Transmission Properties of Networks Described with Reference Graphs Using Unevenness Coefficients
Authors: Bujnowski Sławomir , Marciniak Beata , Lutowski Zbigniew , Flizikowski Adam , Oyerinde Olutayo Oyeyemi
Published: July 2021

This paper discusses an evaluation method of transmission properties of networks described with regular graphs (Reference Graphs) using unevenness coefficients. The first part of the paper offers generic information about describing network topology via graphs. The terms ‘chord graph’ and ‘Reference Graph’, which is a special form of a regular graph, are defined. The operating principle of a basic tool used for testing the network’s transmission properties is discussed. The next part consists of a description of the searching procedure of the shortest paths connecting any two nodes of a graph and the method determining the number of uses of individual graph edges. The analysis shows that using particular edges of a graph depends on two factors: their total number in minimum length paths and their total number in parallel paths connecting the graph nodes. The latter makes it possible to define an unevenness coefficient. The calculated values of the unevenness coefficients can be used to evaluate the transmission properties of networks and to control the distribution of transmission resources.
Modeling and Formulation of Optimization Problems for Optimal Scheduling of Multi-Generation and Hybrid Energy Systems: Review and Recommendations
Authors: Liaquat Sheroze , Zia Muhammad Fahad , Benbouzid Mohamed
Published: July 2021

Increasing power demands require multiple generating units interconnected with each other to maintain the power balance of the system. This results in a highly dense power system consisting of multiple generating units which coordinate with each other to maintain the balanced performance of the system. Among different energy sources, the thermal source, the hydro energy source, the photovoltaic system, and the wind energy source are the most popular ones. Researchers have developed several optimization problems in the literature known as dispatch problems to model the system consisting of these different types of energy sources. The constraints for each system depend upon the generation type and the nature of the objective functions involved. This paper provides a state-of-the-art review of different dispatch problems and the nature of the objective functions involved in them and highlights the major constraints associated with each optimization function.
Defect Data Association Analysis of the Secondary System Based on AFWA-H-Mine
Authors: Xu Yan , Wang Mingyu , Fan Wen
Published: July 2021

The fault data of the secondary system of smart substations hide some information that the association analysis algorithm can mine. The convergence speed of the Apriori algorithm and FP-growth algorithm is slow, and there is a lack of indicators to evaluate the correlation of association rules and the method to determine the parameter threshold. In this paper, the H-mine algorithm is used to realize the fast mining of fault data. The algorithm can traverse data faster by using the data structure of the H-struct. This paper also sets the lift and CF value to screen the association rules with good correlation. When setting the three key parameters of association analysis, namely, support threshold, confidence threshold, and lift threshold, an objective function composed of weighted average lift, CF value, and data coverage rate was selected, and the adaptive fireworks algorithm was used to optimize the parameters in the association analysis. In particular, the rule screening strategy is introduced in fault cause analysis in this paper. By eliminating rules with high similarity, derived signals in association rules are eliminated to the greatest extent to improve the readability of rules and ensure easy understanding of results.
Analysis of the Influence of Silicone Rubber Aging on the Transmission Parameters of Terahertz Waves
Authors: Yang Haitao , Wu Zhensheng , Dong Weinan , Dang Junpeng , Ren Hao
Published: July 2021

In this study, a method for testing the aging of silicone rubber insulators using terahertz waves in the 0.17–0.22 THz frequency band is proposed, aiming at the problem of online non-destructive testing of the aging degree of composite insulators. The relationship between the aging degree of silicone rubber composite insulators and the relative dielectric constant was studied through first-principles calculations and molecular chain scission models. In addition, the electromagnetic model of the terahertz signal incident on the silicon rubber sheet was simulated and the relationship between the aging degree of the silicon rubber and the terahertz input return loss was obtained. Eleven insulator samples with different degrees of aging were selected. In these samples, the degree of aging was calibrated according to the degree of surface deterioration and the average partial discharge voltage. The terahertz return loss measurement experiment was performed after that. Finally, the results of experiment and calculation simulation were compared and the reliability of the relationship between the aging degree of the silicone rubber insulator and the terahertz input return loss was verified.
Process and Energy Intensification of Glycerol Carbonate Production from Glycerol and Dimethyl Carbonate in the Presence of Eggshell-Derived CaO Heterogeneous Catalyst
Authors: Praikaew Wanichaya , Kiatkittipong Worapon , Aiouache Farid , Najdanovic-Visak Vesna , Ngaosuwan Kanokwan , Wongsawaeng Doonyapong , Lim Jun Wei , Lam Su Shiung , Kiatkittipong Kunlanan , Laosiripojana Navadol , Boonyasuwat Sunya , Assabumrungrat Suttichai
Published: July 2021

The process and energy intensifications for the synthesis of glycerol carbonate (GC) from glycerol and dimethyl carbonate (DMC) using an eggshell-derived CaO heterogeneous catalyst were investigated. The transesterification reaction between glycerol and DMC was typically limited by mass transfer because of the immiscible nature of the reactants. By varying the stirring speed, it was observed that the mass transfer limitation could be neglected at 800 rpm. The presence of the CaO solid catalyst made the mass transport-limited reaction process more prominent. Mass transfer intensification using a simple kitchen countertop blender as an alternative to overcome the external mass transfer limitation of a typical magnetic stirrer was demonstrated. A lower amount of the catalyst and a shorter reaction time were required to achieve 93% glycerol conversion or 91% GC yield, and the turnover frequency (TOF) increased almost 5 times from 1.5 to 7.2 min−1 when using a conventional magnetic stirrer and countertop blender, respectively. In addition, using a simple kitchen countertop blender with 7200 rpm, the reaction temperature of 60 °C could be reached within approximately 3 min without the need of a heating unit. This was the result of the self-frictional heat generated by the high-shear blender. This was considered to be heat transfer intensification, as heat was generated locally (in situ), offering a higher homogeneity distribution. Meanwhile, the trend toward energy intensification was promising as the yield efficiency increased from 0.064 to 2.391 g/kJ. A comparison among other process intensification techniques, e.g., microwave reactor, ultrasonic reactor, and reactive distillation was also rationalized.
Frederick III of Aragon (1296–1337)
Authors: Vagnoni Mirko
Published: July 2021

Frederick III of Aragon, King of Sicily (1296–1337). Frederick III of Aragon was the third king of the Aragonese dynasty on the throne of Sicily. He ruled from 1296 to 1337 and he was the only Aragonese king of Sicily who made a significant use of his image. In particular, we have four official (namely, commissioned directly by him or his entourage) representations of him: the royal seal, the billon silver denaro coin, the lost mosaic from the Church of Santa Maria della Valle (known as Badiazza) near Messina, and the mosaic in the Cathedral of Messina.
Early Growth of 11 Native and Three Alien Tree Species in Northeastern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Marquez Conrado , Aguilos Rustum , Bacsal Renato , Adornado Henry , Aguilos Maricar
Published: July 2021

Early growth performances of 11 native tree species were investigated in three different sites in Mindanao, Philippines, to evaluate their adaptability and potential for plantation development. Three alien species were added to assess how native species could potentially compete with these alien species based on survival rate, diameter growth rate (DGR), and height growth rate (HGR). A year after planting, the native species common to all sites that obtained >80% survival rate were Casuarina equisetifolia L. Alstonia macrophylla Wall. ex. G.Don., Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br., and Parkia javanica (Lam.) Merr. and were comparable to an alien species Acacia mangium Willd. The species with the lowest survival rate (30%) across all sites was Duabanga moluccana Blume. Native species P. javanica, Eucalyptus deglupta Blume, and A. macrophylla all had a DGR of 34 mm year−1 and were comparable with the alien species Schizolobium parahyba (Vell.) S.F.Blake with 38 mm year−1. However, the HGR of native species E. deglupta (245 cm year−1) and Melia dubia Cav. (230 cm year−1) were higher than an alien species S. parahyba (222 cm year−1). No native species can compete with the DGR (52 mm year−1) and HGR (384 cm year−1) of A. mangium. Rainfall significantly explained 13%–97% of DGR, HGR and survival rate of >70% of the species while air temperature explained about 17%–96% of the variations of similar variables. This early assessment provides a strong basis to better predict the early performances of native species in the Philippines. Through this, appropriate silvicultural intervention can be recommended towards improving the growth and survival of the native seedlings as alternative industrial tree plantation species in the country.
Effect of Defoliation on the Defense Reactions of Silver Birch (Betula pendula) Infected with Phytophthora plurivora
Authors: Berezovska Daria , Oszako Tomasz , Malewski Tadeusz , Stocki Marcin , Marozau Aleh , Stocka Natalia , Moser Warren Keith , Baggett Larry Scott , Belbahri Lassaad , Nowakowska Justyna Anna
Published: July 2021

In natural environments, plants develop adaptive mechanisms at the cellular and molecular levels to cope with many external factors, e.g., insects and soil pathogens. We studied physiological stress induced by different levels of foliage removal (defoliation 30% and 60%) and by infection of root rot pathogen Phytophthora plurivora on the common Polish tree species, Betula pendula, grown in an open greenhouse. This study showed that P. plurivora damaged the root system which negatively impacted all morphological parameters. However the loss of 30% of the leaves had a positive effect on defense responses. Chlorophyll-a fluorescence parameters indicated a decrease in photosynthetic efficiency in defoliated plants, but plants inoculated with the pathogen had a higher performance index showing increased vigor of the infected plant than birches. The study demonstrated the intense immunity response of birch to P. plurivora through the expression of Hsp90 and Hsp83 genes. The trees weakened by P. plurivora became more susceptible to infection by Erysiphe ornata var. ornata.
Forest Aboveground Biomass Estimation and Mapping through High-Resolution Optical Satellite Imagery—A Literature Review
Authors: Ahmad Adeel , Gilani Hammad , Ahmad Sajid Rashid
Published: July 2021

This paper provides a comprehensive literature review on forest aboveground biomass (AGB) estimation and mapping through high-resolution optical satellite imagery (≤5 m spatial resolution). Based on the literature review, 44 peer-reviewed journal articles were published in 15 years (2004–2019). Twenty-one studies were conducted in Asia, eight in North America and Africa, five in South America, and four in Europe. This review article gives a glance at the published methodologies for AGB prediction modeling and validation. The literature review suggested that, along with the integration of other sensors, QuickBird, WorldView-2, and IKONOS satellite images were most widely used for AGB estimations, with higher estimation accuracies. All studies were grouped into six satellite-derived independent variables, including tree crown, image textures, tree shadow fraction, canopy height, vegetation indices, and multiple variables. Using these satellite-derived independent variables, most of the studies used linear regression (41%), while 30% used linear multiple regression and 18% used non-linear (machine learning) regression, while very few (11%) studies used non-linear (multiple and exponential) regression for estimating AGB. In the context of global forest AGB estimations and monitoring, the advantages, strengths, and limitations were discussed to achieve better accuracy and transparency towards the performance-based payment mechanism of the REDD+ program. Apart from technical limitations, we realized that very few studies talked about real-time monitoring of AGB or quantifying AGB change, a dimension that needs exploration.
Influence of Microencapsulation on Fermentative Behavior of Hanseniaspora osmophila in Wine Mixed Starter Fermentation
Authors: Alberico Grazia , Capece Angela , Mauriello Gianluigi , Pietrafesa Rocchina , Siesto Gabriella , Garde-Cerdán Teresa , Maresca Diamante , Romano Raffaele , Romano Patrizia
Published: July 2021

In recent years, as a consequence of the re-evaluation of the role of non-Saccharomyces yeasts, several studies have been conducted on the use of controlled mixed fermentations with Saccharomyces and different non-Saccharomyces yeast species from the winemaking environment. To benefit from the metabolic particularities of some non-Saccharomyces yeasts, the management of a non-Saccharomyces strain in mixed fermentation is a crucial step, in particular the use of procedures addressed to increase the persistence of non-Saccharomyces strains during the fermentative process. The use of microencapsulation for cell immobilization might represent a strategy for enhancing the competitiveness of non-Saccharomyces yeasts during mixed fermentation. This study was aimed to assess the fermentative performance of a mixed starter culture, composed by a wild Hanseniaspora osmophila strain (ND1) and a commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain (EC1118). For this purpose, free and microencapsulated cells of ND1 strain were tested in co-culture with EC1118 during mixed fermentations in order to evaluate the effect of the microencapsulation on fermentative behavior of mixed starter and final wine composition. The data have shown that H. osmophila cell formulation affects the persistence of both ND1 and EC1118 strains during fermentations and microencapsulation resulted in a suitable system to increase the fermentative efficiency of ND1 strain during mixed starter fermentation.
Development of an Accelerated Stability Model to Estimate Purple Corn Cob Extract Powder (Moradyn) Shelf-Life
Authors: Ferron Lucia , Milanese Chiara , Colombo Raffaella , Papetti Adele
Published: July 2021

Moradyn is an Italian purple corn variety whose cobs represent a rich source of polyphenols. At the industrial level, they are used to produce a dried extract (MCE) by the addition of 20% Arabic gum. In order to evaluate the extract solid-state stability, an innovative accelerated stress protocol was developed following the isoconversion approach. The degradation kinetics of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G), the most suitable marker to monitor the overall MCE degradation status, was monitored under five temperature–humidity (RH) combinations. These data were used to build a mathematical model, able to estimate the C3G stability at 25 °C and 30% RH, whose predictiveness was further assessed by comparing the predicted vs. experimental C3G isoconversion time. Finally, by applying this model, the expiry date of the extract was calculated to be within 26–33 days, confirming that the addition of 20% Arabic gum is insufficient to stabilize MCE and highlighting the need of a new formula in order to prolong MCE shelf-life.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Essential Oil from Omija (Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill.) Produced by Supercritical Fluid Extraction Using CO2
Authors: Lee Jae-Hoon , Lee Yun-Yeol , Lee Jangho , Jang Young-Jin , Jang Hae-Won
Published: July 2021

Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., which is known as omija in South Korea, is mainly cultivated in East Asia. The present study aimed to investigate the chemical composition of essential oil from the omija (OMEO) fruit obtained by supercritical fluid extraction using CO2 and to confirm the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of OMEO using HaCaT human keratinocyte and RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. As a result of the chemical composition analysis of OMEO using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, a total of 41 compounds were identified. The detailed analysis results are sesquiterpenoids (16), monoterpenoids (14), ketones (4), alcohols (3), aldehydes (2), acids (1), and aromatic hydrocarbons (1). OMEO significantly reduced the increased ROS levels in HaCaT keratinocytes induced by UV-B irradiation (p < 0.05). It was confirmed that 5 compounds (α-pinene, camphene, β-myrcene, 2-nonanone, and nerolidol) present in OMEO exhibited inhibitory activity on ROS production. Furthermore, OMEO showed excellent anti-inflammatory activity in RAW 264.7 macrophages induced by lipopolysaccharide. OMEO effectively inhibited NO production (p < 0.05) by suppressing the expression of the iNOS protein. Finally, OMEO was investigated for exhibition of anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB pathway. Taken together, OMEO could be used as a functional food ingredient with excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
Eco-Efficiency of the Fisheries Value Chains in the Gambia and Mali
Authors: Avadí Angel , Acosta-Alba Ivonne
Published: July 2021

The Gambian and Malian fisheries and fish processing value chains are predominantly artisanal and represent a key source of protein and livelihoods, yet their eco-efficiency has not been studied to date. A Life Cycle Assessment was used to estimate the associated environmental impacts of those value chains and provide information on the eco-efficiency indicators, which relate technical efficiencies to environmental impacts. The results showed that industrial Gambian fleets’ fuel use efficiency is rather low as compared with the global mean fuel use intensity (landed fish/consumed fuel) for both small pelagics and demersal fish. In Mali, the fuel use intensity of motorised artisanal fisheries is lower than the mean values for artisanal inland fisheries in developing countries, but the important increase of frozen imported fish from fish farming multiplies the estimated impacts by four. The least energy-intensive fisheries (cast nets and stow nets in Gambia and opportunistic fishers in Mali) feature better eco-efficiency scores. Based on the identified sources of inefficiencies, we suggest improvements in the landing/processing infrastructure and fishing units’ engines, coupled with technical and business training and improved processing methods, to ameliorate seafood eco-efficiency and a stronger recognition of the importance of the artisanal fisheries subsector to overcome challenges and improving resource management.
Simulation of Thermal and Electric Field Distribution in Packaged Sausages Heated in a Stationary Versus a Rotating Microwave Oven
Authors: Tepnatim Wipawee , Daud Witchuda , Kamonpatana Pitiya
Published: July 2021

The microwave oven has become a standard appliance to reheat or cook meals in households and convenience stores. However, the main problem of microwave heating is the non-uniform temperature distribution, which may affect food quality and health safety. A three-dimensional mathematical model was developed to simulate the temperature distribution of four ready-to-eat sausages in a plastic package in a stationary versus a rotating microwave oven, and the model was validated experimentally. COMSOL software was applied to predict sausage temperatures at different orientations for the stationary microwave model, whereas COMSOL and COMSOL in combination with MATLAB software were used for a rotating microwave model. A sausage orientation at 135° with the waveguide was similar to that using the rotating microwave model regarding uniform thermal and electric field distributions. Both rotating models provided good agreement between the predicted and actual values and had greater precision than the stationary model. In addition, the computational time using COMSOL in combination with MATLAB was reduced by 60% compared to COMSOL alone. Consequently, the models could assist food producers and associations in designing packaging materials to prevent leakage of the packaging compound, developing new products and applications to improve product heating uniformity, and reducing the cost and time of the research and development stage.
A New Classification of Perceptual Interactions between Odorants to Interpret Complex Aroma Systems. Application to Model Wine Aroma
Authors: Ferreira Vicente , de-la-Fuente-Blanco Arancha , Sáenz-Navajas María-Pilar
Published: July 2021

Although perceptual interactions are usually mentioned and blamed for the difficulties in understanding the relationship between odorant composition and aromatic sensory properties, they are poorly defined and categorised. Furthermore, old classifications refer mainly to effects on the odour intensity of the mixture of dissimilar non-blending odours and do not consider odour blending, which is one of the most relevant and influential perceptual interactions. Beginning with the results from classical studies about odour interaction, a new and simple systematic is proposed in which odour interactions are classified into four categories: competitive, cooperative, destructive and creative. The first categories are most frequent and display a mild level of interaction, being characterised mostly by analytical processing. The last two are less frequent and activate (or deactivate) configurational processes of object recognition with deep effects on the quality and intensity of the perception. These interactions can be systematically applied to interpret the formation of sensory descriptors from the odorant composition, suggesting that qualitatively the system works. However, there is a lack of quantitative data to work with odour intensities reliably, and a pressing need to systematise the effects of creative interactions.
In Vitro Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity of Hungarian Honeys against Respiratory Tract Bacteria
Authors: Balázs Viktória Lilla , Nagy-Radványi Lilla , Filep Rita , Kerekes Erika , Kocsis Béla , Kocsis Marianna , Farkas Ágnes
Published: July 2021

Honey is a rich source of carbohydrates, while minor compounds such as amino acids and polyphenols contribute to its health-promoting effects. Honey is one of the oldest traditional remedies applied for microbial infections, due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of Hungarian black locust, linden, and sunflower honeys against the most common biofilm-forming respiratory tract pathogens Haemophilus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The unifloral character of all three honey types was confirmed by melissopalynological analysis. The antibacterial activity of each honey sample against each bacterium strain was proven with agar well diffusion assay and thin layer chromatography—direct bioautography. Kinetics and mechanisms of antibacterial action were clarified with time-kill assay and membrane degradation study. The anti-biofilm activity was evidenced using crystal violet assay. In each assay, linden honey was the most effective, followed by sunflower and black locust honey. In addition, each honey sample had greater potential to suppress respiratory tract bacteria, compared to major sugar components. In conclusion, honey in general and linden honey in particular, can have a role in the treatment of respiratory tract infections caused by biofilm-forming bacteria.
Softness, Elasticity, and Toughness of Polymer Networks with Slide-Ring Cross-Links
Authors: Mayumi Koichi , Liu Chang , Yasuda Yusuke , Ito Kohzo
Published: July 2021

Slide-ring (SR) gels cross-linked by ring molecules are characterized by softness (low Young’s modulus), elasticity (low hysteresis loss), and toughness (large fracture energy). In this article, the mechanical and fracture properties of SR gels are reviewed to clarify the physical understanding of the relationship between the molecular-level sliding dynamics of the slide-ring cross-links and macroscopic properties of SR gels. The low Young’s modulus and large fracture energy of SR gels are expressed by simple equations as a function of the degree of sliding movement. The dynamic fracture behaviors of SR gels gives us the time scale of the sliding dynamics of the cross-links, which is at the micro-sec scale. The fast sliding motion of the cross-links leads to the elasticity of the SR gels. The SR concept can be applied to solvent-free elastomers and composite materials.
An FGA Frameshift Variant Associated with Afibrinogenemia in Dachshunds
Authors: Mischke Reinhard , Metzger Julia , Distl Ottmar
Published: July 2021

Congenital fibrinogen disorders are very rare in dogs. Cases of afibrinogenemia have been reported in Bernese Mountain, Bichon Frise, Cocker Spaniel, Collie, Lhasa Apso, Viszla, and St. Bernard dogs. In the present study, we examined four miniature wire-haired Dachshunds with afibrinogenemia and ascertained their pedigree. Homozygosity mapping and a genome-wide association study identified a candidate genomic region at 50,188,932–64,187,680 bp on CFA15 harboring FGB (fibrinogen beta chain), FGA (fibrinogen alpha chain), and FGG (fibrinogen gamma-B chain). Sanger sequencing of all three fibrinogen genes in two cases and validation of the FGA-associated mutation (FGA:g.6296delT, NC_006597.3:g.52240694delA, rs1152388481) in pedigree members showed a perfect co-segregation with afibrinogenemia-affected phenotypes, obligate carriers, and healthy animals. In addition, the rs1152388481 variant was validated in 393 Dachshunds and samples from 33 other dog breeds. The rs1152388481 variant is predicted to modify the protein sequence of both FGA transcripts (FGA201:p.Ile486Met and FGA-202:p.Ile555Met) leading to proteins truncated by 306 amino acids. The present data provide evidence for a novel FGA truncating frameshift mutation that is very likely to explain the cases of severe bleeding due to afibrinogenemia in a Dachshund family. This mutation has already been spread in Dachshunds through carriers before cases were ascertained. Genetic testing allows selective breeding to prevent afibrinogenemia-affected puppies in the future.
Total Genotype Score Modelling of Polygenic Endurance-Power Profiles in Lithuanian Elite Athletes
Authors: Pranckeviciene Erinija , Gineviciene Valentina , Jakaitiene Audrone , Januska Laimonas , Utkus Algirdas
Published: July 2021

Total genotype score (TGS) reflects additive effect of genotypes on predicting a complex trait such as athletic performance. Scores assigned to genotypes in the TGS should represent an extent of the genotype’s predisposition to the trait. Then, combination of genotypes highly ranks those individuals, who have a trait expressed. Usually, the genotypes are scored by the evidence of a genotype–phenotype relationship published in scientific studies. The scores can be revised computationally using genotype data of athletes, if available. From the available genotype data of 180 Lithuanian elite athletes we created an endurance-mixed-power performance TGS profile based on known ACE rs1799752, ACTN3 rs1815739, and AMPD1 rs17602729, and an emerging MB rs7293 gene markers. We analysed an ability of this TGS profile to stratify athletes according to the sport category that they practice. Logistic regression classifiers were trained to compute the genotype scores that represented the endurance versus power traits in the group of analysed athletes more accurately. We observed differences in TGS distributions in female and male group of athletes. The genotypes with possibly different effects on the athletic performance traits in females and males were described. Our data-driven analysis and TGS modelling tools are freely available to practitioners.
Genomic Mosaicism Formed by Somatic Variation in the Aging and Diseased Brain
Authors: Costantino Isabel , Nicodemus Juliet , Chun Jerold
Published: July 2021

Over the past 20 years, analyses of single brain cell genomes have revealed that the brain is composed of cells with myriad distinct genomes: the brain is a genomic mosaic, generated by a host of DNA sequence-altering processes that occur somatically and do not affect the germline. As such, these sequence changes are not heritable. Some processes appear to occur during neurogenesis, when cells are mitotic, whereas others may also function in post-mitotic cells. Here, we review multiple forms of DNA sequence alterations that have now been documented: aneuploidies and aneusomies, smaller copy number variations (CNVs), somatic repeat expansions, retrotransposons, genomic cDNAs (gencDNAs) associated with somatic gene recombination (SGR), and single nucleotide variations (SNVs). A catch-all term of DNA content variation (DCV) has also been used to describe the overall phenomenon, which can include multiple forms within a single cell’s genome. A requisite step in the analyses of genomic mosaicism is ongoing technology development, which is also discussed. Genomic mosaicism alters one of the most stable biological molecules, DNA, which may have many repercussions, ranging from normal functions including effects of aging, to creating dysfunction that occurs in neurodegenerative and other brain diseases, most of which show sporadic presentation, unlinked to causal, heritable genes.
The Hydrothermal Vent Field at the Eastern Edge of the Hellenic Volcanic Arc: The Avyssos Caldera (Nisyros)
Authors: Dura Ana , Mertzimekis Theo J. , Nomikou Paraskevi , Gondikas Andreas , Gómez Míguez Martín Manuel , Bakalis Evangelos , Zerbetto Francesco
Published: July 2021

Almost three-quarters of known volcanic activity on Earth occurs in underwater locations. The presence of active hydrothermal vent fields in such environments is a potential natural hazard for the environment, society, and economy. Despite its importance for risk assessment and risk mitigation, the monitoring of volcanic activity is impeded by the remoteness and the extreme conditions of many underwater volcanoes. The morphology and the activity of the submarine caldera, Avyssos, at the northern part of Nisyros volcano in the South Aegean Sea (Greece), were studied using a remotely operated underwater vehicle. The recorded time series of temperature and conductivity over the submarine volcano have been analyzed in terms of the Generalized Moments Method. This type of analysis can be used as an indicator for the state of activity of a submarine volcano. Here, we expand the work conducted for the first time in 2018. We present the findings of the geological exploration and the mathematical analysis, obtained from the data collected in October 2010. The temperature and conductivity time series show minor fluctuations in a rather stable environment. Based on these results, the impact of developing appropriate mechanisms and policies to avoid the associated natural hazard is expected to be important.
Patient Safety Culture Assessment in Primary Care Settings in Greece
Authors: Antonakos Ioannis , Souliotis Kyriakos , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Tountas Yannis , Kantzanou Maria
Published: July 2021

Introduction: A positive safety culture is considered a pillar of safety in health organizations and the first crucial step for quality health services. In this context, the aim of this study was to set a reference evaluation for the patient safety culture in the primary health sector in Greece, based on health professionals’ perceptions. Methods: We used a cross-sectional survey with a 62% response rate (n = 459), conducted in primary care settings in Greece (February to May 2020). We utilized the “Medical Office Survey on Patient Safety Culture” survey tool from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The study participants were health professionals who interacted with patients from 12 primary care settings in Greece. Results: The most highly ranked domains were: “Teamwork” (82%), “Patient Care Tracking/Follow-up” (80% of positive scores), and “Organizational Learning” (80%); meanwhile, the lowest-ranked ones were: “Leadership Support for Patient Safety” (62%) and “Work Pressure and Pace” (46%). The other domains, such as “Overall Perceptions of Patient Safety and Quality” (77%), “Staff Training“ (70%), “Communication about Error” (70%), “Office Processes and Standardization” (67%), and “Communication Openness” (64%), ranked somewhere in between. Conclusions: A positive safety culture was identified in primary care settings in Greece, although weak areas concerning the safety culture should be addressed in order to improve patient safety.
Accreditation and Certification: Do They Improve Hospital Financial and Quality Performance?
Authors: Brooks Matthew , Beauvais Brad M. , Kruse Clemens Scott , Fulton Lawrence , Mileski Michael , Ramamonjiarivelo Zo , Shanmugam Ramalingam , Lieneck Cristian
Published: July 2021

The relationship between healthcare organizational accreditation and their leaders’ professional certification in healthcare management is of specific interest to institutions of higher education and individuals in the healthcare management field. Since academic program accreditation is one piece of evidence of high-quality education, and since professional certification is an attestation to the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who are certified, we expect alumni who graduated from accredited programs and obtained professional certification to have a positive impact on the organizations that they lead, compared with alumni who did not graduate from accredited programs and who did not obtain professional certification. The authors’ analysis examined the impact of hiring graduates from higher education programs that held external accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). Graduates’ affiliation with the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) professional healthcare leadership organization was also assessed as an independent variable. Study outcomes focused on these graduates’ respective healthcare organization’s performance measures (cost, quality, and access) to assess the researchers’ inquiry into the perceived value of a CAHME-accredited graduate degree in healthcare administration and a professional ACHE affiliation. The results from this study found no effect of CAHME accreditation or ACHE affiliation on healthcare organization performance outcomes. The study findings support the need for future research surrounding healthcare administration professional graduate degree program characteristics and leader development affiliations, as perceived by various industry stakeholders.
Application of Smartphone Technologies in Disease Monitoring: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moses Jeban Chandir , Adibi Sasan , Shariful Islam Sheikh Mohammed , Wickramasinghe Nilmini , Nguyen Lemai
Published: July 2021

Technologies play an essential role in monitoring, managing, and self-management of chronic diseases. Since chronic patients rely on life-long healthcare systems and the current COVID-19 pandemic has placed limits on hospital care, there is a need to explore disease monitoring and management technologies and examine their acceptance by chronic patients. We systematically examined the use of smartphone applications (apps) in chronic disease monitoring and management in databases, namely, Medline, Web of Science, Embase, and Proquest, published from 2010 to 2020. Results showed that app-based weight management programs had a significant effect on healthy eating and physical activity (p = 0.002), eating behaviours (p < 0.001) and dietary intake pattern (p < 0.001), decreased mean body weight (p = 0.008), mean Body Mass Index (BMI) (p = 0.002) and mean waist circumference (p < 0.001). App intervention assisted in decreasing the stress levels (paired t-test = 3.18; p < 0.05). Among cancer patients, we observed a high acceptance of technology (76%) and a moderately positive correlation between non-invasive electronic monitoring data and questionnaire (r = 0.6, p < 0.0001). We found a significant relationship between app use and standard clinical evaluation and high acceptance of the use of apps to monitor the disease. Our findings provide insights into critical issues, including technology acceptance along with regulatory guidelines to be considered when designing, developing, and deploying smartphone solutions targeted for chronic patients.
The Relation between Physical Education Teachers’ (De-)Motivating Style, Students’ Motivation, and Students’ Physical Activity: A Multilevel Approach
Authors: Van Doren Nele , De Cocker Katrien , De Clerck Tom , Vangilbergen Arwen , Vanderlinde Ruben , Haerens Leen
Published: July 2021

Research suggests that physical education (PE) teachers can play a crucial role in the promotion of students’ physical activity. Grounded in Self-Determination Theory, this study investigated how students’ perceptions of PE teachers (de-)motivating style relate to students’ device-based physical activity levels during PE. Moreover, it was examined whether students’ motivation plays an intervening role in this relation and whether students’ physical activity differs according to their gender and lesson topic. A sample of 302 secondary school students aged between 11 and 16 years (M = 13.05, SD = 1.04) completed a questionnaire assessing their perceptions of teachers’ (de-)motivating style and their personal motivation toward PE. Students also wore ActiGraph GT3X accelerometers during the PE lesson. Multilevel structural equation modeling revealed that the teachers’ motivating style had a significant positive relation with students’ autonomous motivation, both at the student level and the class level, and teachers’ controlling style had a significant positive relation with students’ controlled motivation and amotivation at both levels. However, in terms of students’ physical activity levels, students’ gender, the lesson topic, and teachers’ controlling style seemed to be more decisive than students’ motivation and teachers’ motivating style.