bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of Triple-Band (DSRC, 5G, 6G) Antenna for Autonomous Vehicle Telematics
Authors: Bryant Briana , Won Hoyun , Hong Yang-Ki , Lee Woncheol , Choi Minyeong
Published: August 2022

A triple-band stacked-patch antenna covering dedicated short-range communication (DSRC), fifth-generation (5G) millimeter-wave, and sixth-generation (6G) millimeter-wave frequency bands is reported for autonomous vehicles telematics applications. To show the effectiveness of the developed antenna, the antenna performances, such as the S-parameter, realized gain at boresight, and radiation patterns were simulated and measured for DSRC and 5G, and only simulated for 6G. The simulated results show good agreement with the measured results. The results show that the developed triple-band antenna can cover all three bands with high peak realized gains of 6.87 dBi, 12.3 dBi, and 19.8 dBi at DSRC, 5G, and 6G frequency bands, respectively, as well as high isolation between ports of >20 dB. The results also show a straightforward structure and higher antenna gain than the previously reported triple-band antennas in the simulation level.
Multi-Branch Attention-Based Grouped Convolution Network for Human Activity Recognition Using Inertial Sensors
Authors: Li Yong , Wang Luping , Liu Fen
Published: August 2022

Recently, deep neural networks have become a widely used technology in the field of sensor-based human activity recognition and they have achieved good results. However, some convolutional neural networks lack further selection for the extracted features, or the networks cannot process the sensor data from different locations of the body independently and in parallel. Therefore, the accuracy of existing networks is not ideal. In particular, similar activities are easy to be confused, which limits the application of sensor-based HAR. In this paper, we propose a multi-branch neural network based on attention-based convolution. Each branch of the network consists of two layers of attention-based grouped convolution submodules. We introduce a dual attention mechanism that consists of channel attention and spatial attention to select the most important features. Sensor data collected at different positions of the human body are separated and fed into different network branches for training and testing independently. Finally, the multi-branch features are fused. We test the proposed network on three large datasets: PAMAP2, UT, and OPPORTUNITY. The experiment results show that our method outperforms the existing state-of-the-art methods.
Uncertainty and Sensitivity of the Feature Selective Validation (FSV) Method
Authors: Bongiorno Jacopo , Mariscotti Andrea
Published: August 2022

The FSV method is a recognized validation tool that initially assesses the similarity between data sets for electromagnetic measurements and models. Its use may be extended to many problems and applications, and in particular, with relation to electrical systems, but it should be characterized in terms of its uncertainty, as for measurement tools. To this aim, the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM) is applied for the propagation of uncertainty from the experimental data to the Feature Selective Validation (FSV) quantities, using Monte Carlo analysis as confirmation, which ultimately remains the most reliable approach to determine the propagation of uncertainty, given the significant FSV non-linearity. Such non-linearity in fact compromises the accuracy of the Taylor approximation supporting the use of first-order derivatives (and derivative terms in general). MCM results are instead more stable and show sensitivity vs. input data uncertainty in the order of 10 to 100, highly depending on the local data samples value. To this aim, normalized sensitivity coefficients are also reported, in an attempt to attenuate the scale effects, redistributing the observed sensitivity values that, however, remain in the said range, up to about 100.
Small Sample Hyperspectral Image Classification Method Based on Dual-Channel Spectral Enhancement Network
Authors: Pei Songwei , Song Hong , Lu Yinning
Published: August 2022

Deep learning has achieved significant success in the field of hyperspectral image (HSI) classification, but challenges are still faced when the number of training samples is small. Feature fusing approaches based on multi-channel and multi-scale feature extractions are attractive for HSI classification where few samples are available. In this paper, based on feature fusion, we proposed a simple yet effective CNN-based Dual-channel Spectral Enhancement Network (DSEN) to fully exploit the features of the small labeled HSI samples for HSI classification. We worked with the observation that, in many HSI classification models, most of the incorrectly classified pixels of HSI are at the border of different classes, which is caused by feature obfuscation. Hence, in DSEN, we specially designed a spectral feature extraction channel to enhance the spectral feature representation of the specific pixel. Moreover, a spatial–spectral channel was designed using small convolution kernels to extract the spatial–spectral features of HSI. By adjusting the fusion proportion of the features extracted from the two channels, the expression of spectral features was enhanced in terms of the fused features for better HSI classification. The experimental results demonstrated that the overall accuracy (OA) of HSI classification using the proposed DSEN reached 69.47%, 80.54%, and 93.24% when only five training samples for each class were selected from the Indian Pines (IP), University of Pavia (UP), and Salinas Scene (SA) datasets, respectively. The performance improved when the number of training samples increased. Compared with several related methods, DSEN demonstrated superior performance in HSI classification.
Simultaneous Estimation of Vehicle Mass and Unknown Road Roughness Based on Adaptive Extended Kalman Filtering of Suspension Systems
Authors: Yang Haolin , Kim Bo-Gyu , Oh Jong-Seok , Kim Gi-Woo
Published: August 2022

This study presents a vehicle mass estimation system based on adaptive extended Kalman filtering with unknown input (AEKF-UI) estimation of vehicle suspension systems. The suggested real-time methodology is based on the explicit correlation between road roughness and suspension system. Because the road roughness input influences the suspension system, AEKF-UI with a forgetting factor is proposed to simultaneously estimate the time-varying parameter (vehicle mass) of vehicle suspension systems and road roughness using an unknown input estimator. However, a constant forgetting factor does not adaptively weigh the covariance of all the states, and optimal filtering cannot be ensured. To resolve this problem, we present an adaptive forgetting factor technique employed to track time-varying parameters and unknown inputs. Simulation studies demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can simultaneously estimate the vehicle mass variation and unknown road roughness input. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed estimation algorithm were verified through laboratory-level experiments.
Assessing the Contribution of Natural Gas Exploitation to the Local Economic Growth in China
Authors: Peng Cheng , Feng Dianzhuang , Long Hai
Published: August 2022

This study investigates whether natural gas exploitation is a blessing or a curse for provincial and prefecture economic growth. This study employs regression models and synthetic control methods (SCM) to investigate the research question based on hybrid panel and time-series data from 1993 to 2015 from 14 prefecture cities in Sichuan province in China. Based on the provincial data of Sichuan, the regression results show that natural gas exploitation is a curse for the provincial economic development of Sichuan because of the negative associations between gas resources and economic performance, for which the increasing rent-seeking in the province may partially account. However, the SCM results find that the local economy of Dazhou city may benefit from its sufficient natural gas resources in the short run, but it is not sustainable. Meanwhile, the gas resource has no significant contributions to the regional economic growth of Sichuan overall, which is partially attributed to the fact that resource exploitation has no significant spillover effects on some sustainable contributors, such as education, innovation, and others. The practical implication for the economic governors is that the resource-consumed economic route is not sustainable, although it may drive local economic growth in the short run.
New Nine-Level Cascade Multilevel Inverter with a Minimum Number of Switches for PV Systems
Authors: Al-Samawi Ali Abedaljabar , Trabelsi Hafedh
Published: August 2022

To support the grid system with high power quality from photovoltaics (PVs) and reduce the partial shading condition (PSC) effect of the PV system, as well as the mismatch power issue, in this study, we present a simple single-phase, nine-level cascade inverter architecture for photovoltaic (PV) systems with a minimum number of power components and passive parts. This reduction in the number of switches decreases the switching losses and the number of driving circuits, which causes a reduction in the complexity of the control circuit and hence reduces the cost and size. The suggested inverter shows a lower output voltage total harmonic distortion (THD) and unity power factor. In addition, this inverter’s control and switching techniques are far simpler than those of recently published designs. To evaluate the performance of the proposed inverter, we performed a comparison of the cascaded multilevel inverter (CMLI) topology, which required recent cascade topologies with the same nine voltage levels. The comparison depends on parameters such as the number of components (diode and capacitors) and the number of active switches in the inverter, in addition to total harmonic distortion. MATLAB/Simulink models for a grid-tied solar system PV application driven by the proposed nine-level inverter were built for design and validation.
Thermal Performance Evaluation of Window Shutters for Residential Buildings: A Case Study of Abu Dhabi, UAE
Authors: Abdullah Abdullah Khalid , Darsaleh Abeer , Abdelbaqi Shaimaa , Khoukhi Maatouk
Published: August 2022

The research is aimed at comparing residential building windows’ thermal performance with and without thermal shutters, and at examining thermal shutters’ performance upon being insulated with various types of insulation, glares, outside temperatures, and solar radiation. As an example, one case study based out of the UAE is chosen, covering the status of the housing typology and traits of building energy consumption. The study uses the primary tool of computer simulation software “DesignBuilder” to examine the impact of window shutters design on energy consumption and environmental impact. It was found that the usage of conventional insulating materials within the shutters is sufficient for the house to attain a reduction in heat gain of up to 50%. Furthermore, the application of the rolling shutters with analyzed control strategies recorded a potential reduction in equivalent CO2 emissions level, up to 15%, which would decrease the environmental burden on a national level. The simulations have shown high insulating materials did not differ much in the reduction in energy when running a simulation for a whole unit of housing rather than experimenting a window unit separably as reviewed in the literature. The findings can be applicable to other regions with similar climatic conditions and cultural constraints, such as those of the Middle East and the GCC countries.
Clean Coal Technologies as an Effective Way in Global Carbon Dioxide Mitigation
Authors: Smoliński Adam , Bąk Andrzej
Published: August 2022

Energy security is a main challenge in today’s economies [...]
Dynamic Characteristics of Transverse-Magnetic-Field Induced Arc for Plasma-Jet-Triggered Protective Gas Switch in Hybrid UHVDC System
Authors: Wang Wen , Li Zhibing , Gao Keli , Dong Enyuan , Qu Xuebin , Xu Xiaodong
Published: August 2022

A plasma jet-triggered gas switch (PJT-GS) has been developed as an important piece of equipment to operate in an ±800 kV ultra-high voltage direct current transmission system (UHV DC) to achieve grid system protection and control. The crucial factors that would affect its operational performance, such as the current level the PJT-GS could withstand and the gas gap distance between the two rotating electrodes, are comparatively studied in the present work by analysing the arc dynamic characteristics. The rotating electrode used in the PJT-GS is designed with a helical-slotted structure, and the arc can be rotated circularly driven by the produced transverse magnetic field (TMF) along the electrode edge. The objective of such research is to provide a thorough study of the arc dynamic behaviour during the current flowing process of the PJT-GS and also to characterise the physical mechanism that affects the arc rotation and the PJT-GS operation performance. The magnetohydrodynamic-based (MHD) approach is applied by establishing a 3D arc model. Following such a study, the variation of arc characteristics under different operation conditions could be thoroughly determined and it also could provide the guidance for the PJT-GS optimum design reasonably to support its corresponding engineering applications.
Identifying Suitable Restoration and Conservation Areas for Dracaena cinnabari Balf.f. in Socotra, Yemen
Authors: Rezende Marcelo , Maděra Petr , Vahalík Petr , Van Damme Kay , Habrová Hana , Riccardi Tullia , Attorre Fabio , De Sanctis Michele , Sallemi Grazia , Malatesta Luca
Published: August 2022

We examine the distribution of Dracaena cinnabari, the Socotran Dragon’s Blood Tree, an endangered species endemic to the island of Socotra (Yemen)—and we propose an accessibility approach to its conservation, taking the proximity of local communities and land users into account. Using the present occurrence of D. cinnabari, we applied a machine learning algorithm (random forest classifier) to estimate the potential distribution of the species across the island (overall validation accuracy of 0.91) based on available climatic and physiographic parameters. In parallel, we used an accessibility methodology to generate a map of the energy cost of accessing potential areas from the villages. This community-focused accessibility map, combined with the potential distribution map of Dracaena cinnabari, could contribute to decision-making processes related to long-term ecological restoration and reforestation activities. With our case study, we wish to emphasize that user-focused efforts and the implementation of sustainable land practices should play key roles in conserving endangered tree species.
A Comparative Study on the Debittering of Kinnow (Citrus reticulate L.) Peels: Microbial, Chemical, and Ultrasound-Assisted Microbial Treatment
Authors: Suri Shweta , Singh Anupama , Nema Prabhat K. , Taneja Neetu Kumra
Published: August 2022

Kinnow mandarin (Citrus reticulate L.) peels are a storehouse of well-known bioactive compounds, viz., polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, limonoids, and tocopherol, which exhibit an effective antioxidant capacity. However, naringin is the most predominant bitter flavanone compound found in Kinnow peels that causes their bitterness. It prohibits the effective utilization of peels in food-based products. In the present study, a novel approach for the debittering of Kinnow peels has been established to tackle this problem. A comparative evaluation of the different debittering methods (chemical, microbial, and ultrasound-assisted microbial treatments) used on Kinnow peel naringin and bioactive compounds was conducted. Among the chemical and microbial method; solid-state fermentation with A. niger led to greater extraction of naringin content (7.08 mg/g) from kinnow peels. Moreover, the numerical process optimization of ultrasound-assisted microbial debittering was performed by the Box–Behnken design (BBD) of a response surface methodology to maximize naringin hydrolysis. Among all three debittering methods, ultrasound-assisted microbial debittering led to a greater hydrolysis of naringin content and reduced processing time. The optimum conditions were ultrasound temperature (40 °C), time (30 min), and A. niger koji extract (1.45%) for the maximum extraction rate of naringin (11.91 mg/g). These debittered Kinnow peels can be utilized as raw material to develop therapeutic food products having a high phytochemical composition without any off-flavors or bitterness.
An Evaluation of the Nutri-Score System along the Reasoning for Scientific Substantiation of Health Claims in the EU—A Narrative Review
Authors: Peters Stephan , Verhagen Hans
Published: August 2022

In this narrative review, the scientific evidence in support of the front-of-pack label (FOPL) Nutri-Score system is evaluated along with the reasoning for scientific substantiation of health claims in the EU. A health claim could be phrased as ‘Nutri-Score as an FOPL system results in an increased purchase of healthier foods by consumers’. Peer-reviewed scientific literature as found in Pubmed under search terms ”NutriScore” and “Nutri-Score” that investigate the effects of the Nutri-Score on food purchases were evaluated. In total, eight papers were identified. Only three studies were conducted in real-life settings, and five were on online purchases. In the EU, health claims are evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Considering the three basic questions that EFSA uses to evaluate scientific substantiation of health claims, it appears that the (i) food/constituent (the Nutri-Score system) is sufficiently defined/characterised, and (ii) the evidence is sufficient to appraise the system as ‘beneficial to human health’. However, the scientific evidence for a (iii) cause-and-effect relationship is contradictory and limited. In conclusion, based on the EFSA approach for substantiation of health claims, there is insufficient evidence to support a health claim based on the Nutri-Score system, since a cause-and-effect relationship could not be established.
The Changes Occurring in Proteins during Processing and Storage of Fermented Meat Products and Their Regulation by Lactic Acid Bacteria
Authors: Wang Daixun , Cheng Feng , Wang Yi , Han Jun , Gao Fang , Tian Jianjun , Zhang Kaiping , Jin Ye
Published: August 2022

Protein, which is the main component of meat, is degraded and oxidized during meat fermentation. During fermentation, macromolecular proteins are degraded into small peptides and free amino acids, and oxidation leads to amino acid side chain modification, molecular crosslinking polymerization, and peptide chain cleavage. At different metabolic levels, these reactions may affect the protein structure and the color, tenderness, flavor, and edible value of fermented meat products. Lactic acid bacteria are currently a research hotspot for application in the fermented meat industry. Its growth metabolism and derivative metabolites formed during the fermentation of meat products regulate protein degradation and oxidation to a certain extent and improve product quality. Therefore, this paper mainly reviews the changes occurring in proteins in fermented meat products and their effects on the quality of the products. Referring to studies on the effects of lactic acid bacteria on protein degradation and oxidation from all over the world, this review aims to provide a relevant reference for improving the quality of fermented meat products.
Synbiotics and Gut Microbiota: New Perspectives in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Jiang Haoran , Cai Miaomiao , Shen Boyuan , Wang Qiong , Zhang Tongcun , Zhou Xiang
Published: August 2022

The number of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has increased sharply over the past decades. Apart from genetic predisposition, which may cause some of the diagnosed cases, an unhealthy diet and lifestyle are incentive triggers of this global epidemic. Consumption of probiotics and prebiotics to gain health benefits has become increasingly accepted by the public in recent years, and their critical roles in alleviating T2DM symptoms are confirmed by accumulating studies. Microbiome research reveals gut colonization by probiotics and their impacts on the host, while oral intake of prebiotics may stimulate existing metabolisms in the colon. The use of synbiotics (a combination of prebiotics and probiotics) can thus show a synergistic effect on T2DM through modulating the gastrointestinal microenvironment. This review summarizes the research progress in the treatment of T2DM from the perspective of synbiotics and gut microbiota and provides a class of synbiotics which are composed of lactulose, arabinose, and Lactobacillus plantarum, and can effectively adjust the blood glucose, blood lipid, and body weight of T2DM patients to ideal levels.
The Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Flavonoids from Propolis via Nrf2 and NF-κB Pathways
Authors: Xu Wenzhen , Lu Han , Yuan Yuan , Deng Zeyuan , Zheng Liufeng , Li Hongyan
Published: August 2022

Accumulating evidence shows that oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. It has been suggested that propolis possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the main flavonoids of propolis (chrysin, pinocembrin, galangin, and pinobanksin) and propolis extract were researched. The results showed that the cellular ROS (Reactive oxygen species) levels, antioxidant enzymes, Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) nuclear translocation, and the expression of NQO1 (NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1) and HO-1 (heme oxygenase 1) were regulated by different concentrations of individual flavonoids and propolis extract, which showed good antioxidant and pro-oxidant effects. For example, ROS levels were decreased; SOD and CAT activities were increased; and the expression of HO-1 protein was increased by chrysin. The results demonstrated that NO (Nitric Oxide), NOS (Nitric Oxide Synthase), and the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway were inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by different concentrations of individual flavonoids and propolis extract. Moreover, the results revealed that the phytochemicals presented antioxidant effects at lower concentrations but pro-oxidant effects and stronger anti-inflammatory effects at higher concentrations. To maintain the balance of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, it is possible that phytochemicals activate the Nrf2 pathway and inhibited the NF-κB (Nuclear factor kappa B) pathway.
Characterization of Botanical Origin of Italian Honey by Carbohydrate Composition and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Authors: Tedesco Raffaello , Scalabrin Elisa , Malagnini Valeria , Strojnik Lidija , Ogrinc Nives , Capodaglio Gabriele
Published: August 2022

Honey is a natural sweetener constituted by numerous macro- and micronutrients. Carbohydrates are the most representative, with glucose and fructose being the most abundant. Minor honey components like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), minerals, vitamins, amino acids are able to confer honey-specific properties and are useful to characterize and differentiate between honey varieties according to the botanical origin. The present work describes the chemical characterization of honeys of different botanical origin (multifloral, acacia, apple–dandelion, rhododendron, honeydew, and chestnut) produced and collected by beekeepers in the Trentino Alto-Adige region (Italy). Melissopalynological analysis was conducted to verify the botanical origin of samples and determine the frequency of different pollen families. The carbohydrate composition (fourteen sugars) and the profile of VOCs were evaluated permitting to investigate the relationship between pollen composition and the chemical profile of honey. Statistical analysis, particularly partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), demonstrates the importance of classifying honey botanical origin on the basis of effective pollen composition, which directly influences honey’s biochemistry, in order to correctly define properties and value of honeys.
The Role of Amaranth, Quinoa, and Millets for the Development of Healthy, Sustainable Food Products—A Concise Review
Authors: Balakrishnan Gayathri , Schneider Renée Goodrich
Published: August 2022

The selection of sustainable crops adaptable to the rapidly changing environment, which also cater to the dietary needs of the growing population, is a primary challenge in meeting food security. Grains from ancient crops such as amaranth, quinoa, and millets are positioned to address this challenge and hence have gained dietary predominance among cereals and pseudocereals due to their nutritional value and energy efficiency. From a nutritional perspective, they are recognized for their complete protein, phenolic compounds and flavonoids, prebiotic fibers, and essential micronutrients, including minerals and vitamins. Bioactive peptides from their proteins have shown antihypertensive, antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. The nutritional diversity of these grains makes them a preferred choice over traditional cereals for developing healthy, sustainable food products such as plant-based dairy, vegan meats, and gluten-free products. With growing consumer awareness about sustainability and health, the categories mentioned above are transitioning from ‘emerging’ to ‘mainstream’; however, there is still a significant need to include such healthy grains to fulfill the nutritional gap. This review article emphasizes the health benefits of amaranth, quinoa, and millet grains and discusses the recent research progress in understanding their application in new sustainable food categories. The challenges associated with their incorporation into novel foods and future research directions are also provided.
Special Issue: Innovative Pasta with High Nutritional and Health Potential
Authors: Gazza Laura , Nocente Francesca
Published: August 2022

This editorial summarizes some of the key challenges in the production of novel pasta formulations in order to obtain high nutritional and healthy products [...]
Characteristics of Mussels-Derived Carbon Dots and Their Applications in Bio-Imaging and Detection of Riboflavin
Authors: Zhao Wenyu , Zhang Yi , Cao Bin , Li Zhuoyan , Sun Chengfeng , Cao Xiaolin , Cong Shuang
Published: August 2022

A simple and green strategy has been demonstrated for the synthesis of carbon dots (CDs) from mussels. The chemical structure and optical properties of mussels-derived CDs prepared at different reaction temperatures (140, 160, and 180 °C) were evaluated. The average size of synthesized fluorescent CDs decreased from 2.06 to 1.30 nm as reaction temperatures increased from 140 to 180 °C. The fluorescence quantum yield of CDs could reach up to 15.20%. The surface of CDs was rich in functional groups such as -OH, -NH2, and -COOH, providing CDs with good water solubility and biocompatibility. Furthermore, the mussel-derived CDs have been successfully applied in bio-imaging for onion endothelium cells, HepG2 cells, and zebrafish. In addition, CDs could be employed as a biosensor for riboflavin detection. Therefore, mussels are a promising carbon resource for preparing N-doped CDs for bio-imaging and monitoring riboflavin.
Progress in Antibacterial Hydrogel Dressing
Authors: Liu Jie , Jiang Wenqi , Xu Qianyue , Zheng Yongjie
Published: August 2022

Antibacterial hydrogel has excellent antibacterial property and good biocompatibility, water absorption and water retention, swelling, high oxygen permeability, etc.; therefore, it widely applied in biomedicine, intelligent textiles, cosmetics, and other fields, especially for medical dressing. As a wound dressing, the antibacterial hydrogel has the characteristics of absorbing wound liquid, controlling drug release, being non-toxic, being without side effects, and not causing secondary injury to the wound. Its preparation method is simple, and can crosslink via covalent or non-covalent bond, such as γ-radiation croFsslinking, free radical polymerization, graft copolymerization, etc. The raw materials are easy to obtain; usually these include chondroitin sulfate, sodium alginate, polyvinyl alcohol, etc., with different raw materials being used for different antibacterial modes. According to the hydrogel matrix and antibacterial mode, the preparation method, performance, antibacterial mechanism, and classification of antibacterial hydrogels are summarized in this paper, and the future development direction of the antibacterial hydrogel as wound dressing is proposed.
Rheological Properties of Organic Kerosene Gel Fuel
Authors: Li Meng-Ge , Wu Yan , Cao Qin-Liu , Yuan Xin-Yi , Chen Xiong , Han Jun-Li , Wu Wei-Tao
Published: August 2022

Gel fuel potentially combines the advantages of solid fuel and liquid fuel due to its special rheological properties, which have essential impacts on the application of gel fuel in propulsion systems. In this paper, we study the rheological property of organic kerosene gel through a series of measurements on its viscosity as a function of the shear rate, temperature, and shear history. The measured datasets are then fitted with constitutive relationships between the viscosity and shear rate at three different levels: the power law shear-thinning model, the power law dependency on both the temperature and shear rate, and the thixotropic property. It is found that intense pre-shear could exhaust thixotropy and reduce viscosity of the kerosene gel. For the power law shear-thinning model, the consistency index increases with the gellant mass fraction, whereas the power law exponent remains constant. The dependence of viscosity on temperature could be well approximated by an empirical power law relationship. As for the thixotropic property of the kerosene gel, the fitted second-order kinetic model corresponds accurately to the viscosity at different shear rates and shear times. The constitutive models fitted in this work at different levels are consistent with each other and provide useful tools for further applications of organic kerosene gel fuel.
Optimizing Time Management for Drip-and-Ship Stroke Patients Qualifying for Endovascular Therapy—A Single-Network Study
Authors: Hädrich Kevin , Krukowski Pawel , Barlinn Jessica , Gawlitza Matthias , Gerber Johannes C. , Puetz Volker , Linn Jennifer , Kaiser Daniel P. O.
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND: We sought to identify factors for delayed drip-and-ship (DS) management in stroke patients transferred from primary hospitals to our comprehensive stroke center (CSC) for endovascular therapy (EVT). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of all patients transferred to our CSC for EVT between 2016 and 2020. We analyzed emergency and hospital records to assess DS process times and factors predictive of delays. We dichotomized the admission period to 2016–2017 and 2018–2020 according to the main process optimization, including the introduction of a prenotification call. RESULTS: We included 869 DS patients (median age 76 years (IQR 65–82), NIHSS 16 (IQR 11–21), 278 min (IQR 243–335) from onset to EVT); 566 were transferred in 2018–2020. Admission in 2016–2017, during on-call, longer tranfer distance, and general anesthesia were factors independently associated with delayed onset to EVT time (F(5, 352) = 14.76, p < 0.000). Other factors associated with delayed DS management were: transfer mode, primary hospital type, site of large-vessel occlusion, and intravenous thrombolysis. Total transfer time was faster for distances <50 km by ambulance and for distances >71 km by helicopter. CONCLUSION: Assessment of DS processes and times throughout the patient pathway allows identification of potentially modifiable factors for improvement of the very time-critical workflow for stroke patients.
Development of a Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test Protocol Using Aquatic Treadmill in Healthy Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Choi Hee-Eun , Kim Chul , Do Hwan-Kwon , Lee Hoo-Seok , Min Eun-Ho
Published: August 2022

Traditional cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) protocols are difficult to apply to patients who have difficulty walking on a treadmill. Therefore, this study aimed to develop an aquatic treadmill (AT) CPET protocol involving constant increments in exercise load (metabolic equivalents (METs)) at regular intervals. Fourteen healthy male participants were enrolled in this study. The depth of the water pool was set to the umbilicus level of each participant, and the water temperature was maintained at 28–29 °C. The testing protocol comprised a total of 12 stages at different speeds. The starting speed was 0.7 km/h, which was increased by 0.6 or 0.7 km/h every 2 min. Heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen uptake, minute ventilation, respiratory exchange ratio, and rate of perceived exertion were recorded at each stage. All values showed a significant increasing trend with stage progression (p < 0.001). Peak oxygen uptake and heart rate values were 29.76 ± 3.75 and 168.36 ± 13.12, respectively. We developed a new AT CPET protocol that brings about constant increments in METs at regular intervals. This new AT CPET protocol could be a promising alternative to traditional CPET protocols for patients who experience difficulty walking on a treadmill.
Single-Center-Single-Blinded Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of a Nutraceutical Containing Boswellia Serrata, Bromelain, Zinc, Magnesium, Honey, Tyndallized Lactobacillus Acidophilus and Casei to Fight Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and Otitis Media
Authors: Della Volpe Antonio , De Luca Pietro , De Lucia Antonietta , Martines Francesco , Piroli Piera , D’Ascanio Luca , Camaioni Angelo , La Mantia Ignazio , Di Stadio Arianna
Published: August 2022

Some nutraceuticals have been studied as supportive treatment for fighting upper respiratory tract infection and middle ear disease. Our study aims at evaluating the effect of a specific oral supplementation in the treatment of pediatric otits media. The subjects were randomly assigned by the physician (single-blinded study) to one of three groups: Control Group (CG), Treatment Group 1 (TG1), or Treatment Group 2 (TG2). Both TG were treated with Flogostop Duo (for 20 days—TG1 or 30 days—TG2) in combination with the standard treatment, while CG underwent standard treatment only. The standard treatment was nasal aerosol with Fluticasone and Mucolytic, and nasal washing with hypertonic solution. All patients were analyzed by otoscopy, impedance, fibroscopy, and pure auditory test at the baseline (T0), after 20 days (T1) and 35 days (T2). 120 children were included in the study, 40 in the CG, 40 in the TG1, and 40 in the TG2. Both TG1 and TG2 presented statistically significant differences with respect to controls in otoscopy, impedance, fibroscopy, and PTA at T2. The otoscopy improved at T2 with statistically significant value only in TG2. The impedance and fibroscopy improved at T1 both in TG1 and TG2 compared to CG. A statistically significant improvement was observed in TG2 at T2 in comparison to both CG and TG1. Statistically significant differences were observed in PTA at T2 only compared with controls. This study confirmed the efficacy of nutraceutical as supporting therapy in the upper respiratory tract infection in children. In particular, the supplement containing Boswellia serrata and Bromelain, which are molecules with strong anti-inflammatory and pain-control capacities, could add the benefit without the adverse effects which are related to NSAID use.
Healthcare Providers’ Perception and Barriers Concerning the Use of Telehealth Applications in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alghamdi Saeed M. , Aldhahir Abdulelah M. , Alqahtani Jaber S. , Siraj Rayan A. , Alsulayyim Abdullah S. , Almojaibel Abdullah A. , Alhotye Munyra , Alanazi Abdullah M. , Alqarni Abdullah A.
Published: August 2022

Background: Telehealth services are widely used in Saudi Arabia. Despite this, neither the use rate nor the attitudes, perceptions, and barriers concerning telehealth applications have been evaluated nationally from the perspective of healthcare providers (HCPs). Aim: This study aims to explore the use rate of telehealth, as well as the attitudes, perceptions, and barriers concerning telehealth use in Saudi Arabia from the perspective of HCPs. Methods and design: A cross-sectional survey was conducted and distributed to all HCPs between 16 November 2021 and 16 March 2022, through an online platform (Survey Monkey). Results: Overall, 1034 HCPs completed the online survey, of which 65.0% (n = 677) were male. Physicians accounted for 22.34%, while nurses and respiratory therapists accounted for 22.34% and 21.47%, respectively. Only 491 HCPs (47%) have used telehealth applications, the majority for less than a year (21.47%) or from one to three years (14.51%). Around 44% of HCPs perceived telehealth as being useful in quality and care delivery. Around 43% of HCPs felt comfortable using telehealth, and 45.45% perceived telehealth as being useful for patients with transportation difficulties. Additionally, 38% believed that telehealth provides a confidential way of protecting patients’ information, and 36% would like to receive more training in telehealth. Speech-language therapists and public health professionals were the highest HCP users (98% and 95%, respectively), while general physicians and dentists were the lowest users (44% and 55%, respectively). Lack of time or a busy schedule was the most common barrier to not using telehealth among all HCPs (38%). Conclusion: The use of telehealth was perceived as being positive as well as valuable and confidential in monitoring and providing care. However, challenges such as the lack of time or a busy schedule impeded the use of telehealth among HCPs in Saudi Arabia.
A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis to Explore Diabetes Self-Care Factors in a Rural Sample
Authors: Abbott Laurie , Graven Lucinda , Schluck Glenna , Lemacks Jennifer
Published: August 2022

Diabetes is a public health problem that requires management to avoid health sequelae. Little is known about the determinants that influence diabetes self-care activities among rural populations. The purpose of this analysis was to explore the relationships among diabetes self-care activities, diabetes knowledge, perceived diabetes self-management, diabetes fatalism, and social support among an underserved rural group in the southern United States. A diabetes health promotion program was tested during a cluster randomized trial that tested a disease risk reduction program among adults living with prediabetes and diabetes. A structural equation model was fit to test psychosocial factors that influence diabetes self-care activities using the Information–Motivation–Behavioral Skills Model of Diabetes Self-Care (IMB-DSC) to guide the study. Perceived diabetes self-management significantly predicted self-care behaviors, and there was also a correlation between perceived diabetes self-management and diabetes fatalism. Perceived diabetes self-management influenced diabetes self-care activities in this rural sample and had an association with diabetes fatalism. The findings of this study can facilitate clinical care and community programs targeting diabetes and advance health equity among underserved rural groups.
Current Salivary Glands Biopsy Techniques: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Pellegrini Matteo , Pulicari Federica , Zampetti Paolo , Scribante Andrea , Spadari Francesco
Published: August 2022

Biopsy is a surgical procedure performed to collect a portion of tissue or organ for diagnostic studies. The aim of the present manuscript is to describe state-of-the-art major and minor salivary gland biopsy techniques and assess the indications and complications of other salivary gland biopsy techniques. A search was performed using the following MeSH terms: biopsy, fine-needle biopsies, image-guided biopsies, frozen sections, and salivary glands disease. A current overview of major and minor salivary glands biopsy techniques was provided. In the oncological field, a comparison was made between the most widely used biopsy method, ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy (US-FNAB), and an alternative method, ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy (US-guided CNB), highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each. Finally, intra-operative frozen sections (IOFSs) were presented as an additional intraoperative diagnostic method. Minor salivary gland biopsy (MSGB) is the simplest diagnostic method used by clinicians in the diagnosis of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. In neoplastic lesions, US-FNAB represents the most performed method; however, due to its low diagnostic accuracy for non-neoplastic specimens, US-guided CNB has been introduced as an alternative method.
Exploring the Efficacy of a Virtual First Year Interprofessional Education Event
Authors: Shamputa Isdore Chola , Kek Boon , Waycott Loretta , Fournier Tammie , McCarville Shaun , Doucet John , Gaudet Derek J. , Nicholson Marc
Published: August 2022

Interprofessional education (IPE) activities are utilized in health education programs to develop interprofessional collaboration (IPC) competencies. All first-year healthcare students at three postsecondary learning institutions attend a mandatory introductory IPE event annually. During the 2020/2021 academic year, the event was moved from a face-to-face activity to a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. This study examined whether the virtual IPE activity was effective in supporting the development of interprofessional competencies for first-year healthcare students. Two hundred and six students attended a synchronous didactic presentation on IPE competencies and discussed a simulated case in interprofessional groups of eight students and two faculty facilitators. The Interprofessional Collaborative Competency Attainment Survey (ICCAS) was used to measure the students’ opinions on interprofessional competencies. Paired t-tests were used to compare the pre- and post-scores. One hundred and nine (52.9% response rate) students completed the survey. Surveys from 99 students with matched pre- and post-scores were included in the study. The ICCAS competencies showed improvements (p < 0.05) in all of the students’ self-reported IPE competencies following the activity compared to before the training. Our findings indicate that the virtual IPE activity is effective in facilitating the development of IPC for first-year healthcare students.
Postharvest Handling of Horticultural Products
Authors: Antunes Maria Dulce , Gago Custódia , Guerreiro Adriana
Published: August 2022

Fruit and vegetables are in a live state after harvest [...]
Balance of Carotenoid Synthesis and Degradation Contributes to the Color Difference between Chinese Narcissus and Its Yellow-Tepal Mutant
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Zhou Yi , Wu Yijing , Cai Junhuo , Zhang Yiqiang , Shen Jincai , Wu Shibin , Liu Wenjie , Cai Ming , Cheng Tangren , Zhang Qixiang
Published: August 2022

Chinese narcissus (Narcissus tazetta var. chinensis) was introduced to China 1300–1400 years ago, and has grown naturally in southeastern China. It is a popular Chinese traditional potted flower and a well-known flowering bulb cultivated worldwide with only two white-tepal triploid cultivars, ‘Jinzhan Yintai’ and ‘Yulinglong’. Recently, a mutant with yellow tepals was observed and promptly became popular. To clarify the key pigment for color difference and its molecular mechanism of accumulation, we conducted pigment metabolite analysis and comparative transcriptome analysis on ‘Jinzhan Yintai’ and the yellow-flowered mutant. The results showed that there was no significant difference in total flavonoid content between the mutant and ‘Jinzhan Yintai’, whereas the total carotenoid content of the mutant was more than 10-fold higher than that of ‘Jinzhan Yintai’. Based on the RNA-sequencing results, sixty-four unigenes, corresponding to 29 enzymes associated with the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway, were analyzed in detail. A comparative KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, in conjunction with quantitative real-time PCR data, revealed the opposite gene expression mode of the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway. Compared with ‘Jinzhan Yintai ’, PSY and PDS were up-regulated in the three mid-flowering stages of the mutant, whereas NCED genes were strongly down-regulated, which likely contributed to carotenoid accumulation in chromoplasts of the tepals in the mutant.
Extreme Wave Analysis for the Dubai Coast
Authors: Elkersh Khaled , Atabay Serter , Yilmaz Abdullah Gokhan
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to present the result of commonly used extreme wave analysis distribution methods applied to a long-term wave hindcast at a point in the Arabian Gulf near the coastline of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The wave data were hindcasted for a total period of 40 years, starting from 1 January 1979 to 31 December 2018. This analysis aims to support the design, repair, and maintenance of coastal structures near the Dubai coast. A 2.5 m threshold is selected using the Peak Over Threshold method to filter the storm data for the extreme wave analysis. Different distribution methods are used for this analysis such as Log-normal, Gumbel, Weibull, Exponential, and Generalized Pareto Distribution (GPD). The significant wave heights are predicted for different return periods. The GPD distribution appears to fit the data best compared to the other distribution methods. Many coastal projects are being planned near the Dubai coastline. Hence, the analysis presented in this paper would be useful in designing safe and efficiently designed projects.
‘A Lot of People Just Go for Walks, and Don’t Do Anything Else’: Older Adults in the UK Are Not Aware of the Strength Component Embedded in the Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines—A Qualitative Study
Authors: Gluchowski Ashley , Bilsborough Helena , Mcdermott Jane , Hawley-Hague Helen , Todd Chris
Published: August 2022

Strength recommendations have been embedded within the UK’s Chief Medical Officers’ physical activity guidelines since 2011. In 2019, they were given a more prominent position in the accompanying infographic. However, there is limited evidence that these recommendations have been successful in their population-wide dissemination. This study aimed to explore the engagement of community-dwelling older adults with the guidelines to date and to gain a nuanced understanding of the awareness, knowledge, and action that older adults take to fulfil strength recommendations. A total of fifteen older adults living in the UK participated in one online interview. A general inductive approach was used to generate themes from the data. There were four major themes that were found. 1. The strength component of the physical activity guidelines, 2. Barriers, 3. Motivators, and 4. Solutions. No participants were aware of the strength guidelines. When they were asked what activities they used to fulfil the ‘build strength on at least two-days-per-week′ criteria, walking, yoga, and Pilates were the most common responses. Ageism and strength training misconceptions were major barriers to participation in strengthening exercise. Older adults were much less aware of the benefits of building strength and strength training participation when compared to aerobic activities, so motivators to participation were generally not specific to strength training. Finally, there are several ways that practitioners can overcome the barriers to strength training participation. Solutions to improving the uptake and adherence to strength training participation are likely to be more successful when they include opportunities for social interaction, ability-appropriate challenge, and provide both short- and long-term benefits.