bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of an Ag3PO4/Nb2O5 Photocatalyst for the Degradation of Dye
Authors: Osman Nur Syazwani , Sulaiman Siti Norhasimah , Muhamad Ernee Noryana , Mukhair Hayati , Tan Sin Tee , Abdullah Abdul Halim
Published: April 2021

In this work, the photocatalytic performance of Ag3PO4, Nb2O5 and Ag3PO4/Nb2O5 hybrid photocatalysts to degrade methyl orange dye, MO, in an aqueous solution under visible light irradiation was evaluated. The Ag3PO4 and Ag3PO4/Nb2O5 photocatalysts, with various Ag to Nb molar ratios, were prepared using a facile precipitation method. The photocatalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction, UV–Visible, X-ray Photoelectron, and Photoluminescence spectroscopies. Upon the addition of Ag3PO4, the band gap energy of Nb2O5 decreased from 3.0 eV to 2.7 eV, indicating the possible use of the Ag3PO4/Nb2O5 hybrid photocatalysts under visible light irradiation. All of the prepared Ag3PO4/Nb2O5 catalysts exhibited higher photocatalytic performance than Ag3PO4 in degrading methyl orange dye under 23-watt visible light irradiation. The Ag3PO4/Nb2O5 catalyst, with a mole ratio of 2:1, exhibited the fastest MO degradation rate of 7.3 × 10−2 min−1, which is twice faster than that of Ag3PO4. The catalyst also shows better stability, as it is reusable for up to six experimental cycles while maintaining its photocatalytic activity above 60%.
Sample Environment for Operando Hard X-ray Tomography—An Enabling Technology for Multimodal Characterization in Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Becher Johannes , Weber Sebastian , Ferreira Sanchez Dario , Doronkin Dmitry E. , Garrevoet Jan , Falkenberg Gerald , Motta Meira Debora , Pascarelli Sakura , Grunwaldt Jan-Dierk , Sheppard Thomas L.
Published: April 2021

Structure–activity relations in heterogeneous catalysis can be revealed through in situ and operando measurements of catalysts in their active state. While hard X-ray tomography is an ideal method for non-invasive, multimodal 3D structural characterization on the micron to nm scale, performing tomography under controlled gas and temperature conditions is challenging. Here, we present a flexible sample environment for operando hard X-ray tomography at synchrotron radiation sources. The setup features are discussed, with demonstrations of operando powder X-ray diffraction tomography (XRD-CT) and energy-dispersive tomographic X-ray absorption spectroscopy (ED-XAS-CT). Catalysts for CO2 methanation and partial oxidation of methane are shown as case studies. The setup can be adapted for different hard X-ray microscopy, spectroscopy, or scattering synchrotron radiation beamlines, is compatible with absorption, diffraction, fluorescence, and phase-contrast imaging, and can operate with scanning focused beam or full-field acquisition mode. We present an accessible methodology for operando hard X-ray tomography studies, which offer a unique source of 3D spatially resolved characterization data unavailable to contemporary methods.
Antioxidant Determination with the Use of Carbon-Based Electrodes
Authors: Pisoschi Aurelia Magdalena , Pop Aneta , Iordache Florin , Stanca Loredana , Bilteanu Liviu , Serban Andreea Iren
Published: April 2021

Antioxidants are compounds that prevent or delay the oxidation process, acting at a much smaller concentration, in comparison to that of the preserved substrate. Primary antioxidants act as scavenging or chain breaking antioxidants, delaying initiation or interrupting propagation step. Secondary antioxidants quench singlet oxygen, decompose peroxides in non-radical species, chelate prooxidative metal ions, inhibit oxidative enzymes. Based on antioxidants’ reactivity, four lines of defense have been described: Preventative antioxidants, radical scavengers, repair antioxidants, and antioxidants relying on adaptation mechanisms. Carbon-based electrodes are largely employed in electroanalysis given their special features, that encompass large surface area, high electroconductivity, chemical stability, nanostructuring possibilities, facility of manufacturing at low cost, and easiness of surface modification. Largely employed methods encompass voltammetry, amperometry, biamperometry and potentiometry. Determination of key endogenous and exogenous individual antioxidants, as well as of antioxidant activity and its main contributors relied on unmodified or modified carbon electrodes, whose analytical parameters are detailed. Recent advances based on modifications with carbon-nanotubes or the use of hybrid nanocomposite materials are described. Large effective surface area, increased mass transport, electrocatalytical effects, improved sensitivity, and low detection limits in the nanomolar range were reported, with applications validated in complex media such as foodstuffs and biological samples.
Laying Open and Curettage under Local Anesthesia to Treat Pilonidal Sinus: Long-Term Follow-Up in 111 Consecutively Operated Patients
Authors: Garg Pankaj , Yagnik Vipul D.
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Several techniques for the treatment of pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) are in vogue, though none have emerged as the gold standard. Laying open (deroofing) and curettage under local anesthesia is one of the most straightforward procedures to treat PSD. In this study, the long-term follow-up in a large series was analyzed. (2) Methods: The laying open approach was performed for all types of consecutive PSD patients—simple, complicated, and abscess. The primary outcome parameter of the study was the healing rate. The secondary outcome parameters were operating time, hospital stay, time to resumption of normal work, and healing time. (3) Results: 111 (M/F–92/19, mean age-22.9 ± 5.7 years) consecutive patients were operated on and followed for 38 months (6–111 months). Of these, 24 had pilonidal abscesses, 87 had chronic pilonidal disease, while 22 had recurrent disease. Operating time and hospital stay were 24 ± 7 min and 66 ± 23 min, respectively. On average, patients could resume normal work in 3.6 ± 2.9 days and the healing time was 43.8 ± 7.4 days. Three patients were lost to follow-up. Complete resolution of the disease occurred in 104/108 (96.3%) patients, while 4 (3.7%) had a recurrence. One recurrence was due to a missed tract, while three recurrences presented after complete healing had occurred. Two patients with recurrence were operated on again with the same procedure, and both healed completely. Thus, the overall success rate of this procedure was 98.1% (106/108) with a recurrence rate after first surgery of 3.7% over a median follow-up of 38 months. (4) Conclusions: Pilonidal disease managed by laying open (deroofing) with curettage under local anesthesia is associated with a high cure rate. This procedure is effective in treating all kinds of pilonidal disease (simple, complicated, and abscess).
Nighttime Light Hurts Mammalian Physiology: What Diurnal Rodent Models Are Telling Us
Authors: Mendoza Jorge
Published: April 2021

Natural sunlight permits organisms to synchronize their physiology to the external world. However, in current times, natural sunlight has been replaced by artificial light in both day and nighttime. While in the daytime, indoor artificial light is of lower intensity than natural sunlight, leading to a weak entrainment signal for our internal biological clock, at night the exposure to artificial light perturbs the body clock and sleep. Although electric light at night allows us “to live in darkness”, our current lifestyle facilitates nighttime exposure to light by the use, or abuse, of electronic devices (e.g., smartphones). The chronic exposure to light at nighttime has been correlated to mood alterations, metabolic dysfunctions, and poor cognition. To decipher the brain mechanisms underlying these alterations, fundamental research has been conducted using animal models, principally of nocturnal nature (e.g., mice). Nevertheless, because of the diurnal nature of human physiology, it is also important to find and propose diurnal animal models for the study of the light effects in circadian biology. The present review provides an overview of the effects of light at nighttime on physiology and behavior in diurnal mammals, including humans. Knowing how the brain reacts to artificial light exposure, using diurnal rodent models, is fundamental for the development of new strategies in human health based in circadian biology.
Improve the Performance of SONOS Type UV TD Sensors Using IOHAOS with Enhanced UV Transparency ITO Gate
Authors: Hsieh Wen-Ching , Jong Fun-Cheng , Tseng Wei-Ting
Published: April 2021

This research demonstrates that an indium tin oxide–silicon oxide–hafnium aluminum oxide‒silicon oxide–silicon device with enhanced UV transparency ITO gate (hereafter E-IOHAOS) can greatly increase the sensing response performance of a SONOS type ultraviolet radiation total dose (hereafter UV TD) sensor. Post annealing process is used to optimize UV optical transmission and electrical resistivity characterization in ITO film. Via nano-columns (NCols) crystalline transformation of ITO film, UV transparency of ITO film can be enhanced. UV radiation causes the threshold voltage VT of the E-IOHAOS device to increase, and the increase of the VT of E-IOHAOS device is also related to the UV TD. The experimental results show that under UV TD irradiation of 100 mW·s/cm2, ultraviolet light can change the threshold voltage VT of E-IOHAOS to 12.5 V. Moreover, the VT fading rate of ten-years retention on E-IOHAOS is below 10%. The VT change of E-IOHAOS is almost 1.25 times that of poly silicon–aluminum oxide–hafnium aluminum oxide–silicon oxide–silicon with poly silicon gate device (hereafter SAHAOS). The sensing response performance of an E-IOHAOS UV TD sensor is greatly improved by annealed ITO gate.
Conductive Nanofilms with Oppositely Charged Reduced Graphene Oxides as a Base for Electroactive Coatings and Sensors
Authors: Kruk Tomasz , Warszyński Piotr
Published: April 2021

We demonstrate a method for the formation of multilayers composed of reduced graphene oxide (rGO), which can be used for transparent, conducting thin films. Using the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly of positively and negatively charged GO sheets, we could obtain thin films with highly controllable sheet resistance. The natural negative charge of graphene oxide was turned to positive by the amidation reaction. After forming the multilayer films, the graphene oxide underwent thermal reduction at temperatures above 150 °C. The (rGO+/rGO−) films were characterized by UV-Vis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and their conductivity was measured by the four-point method. We found that after deposition of five (rGO+/rGO−), the coating structure reached the percolation limit, and the film resistance decreased more gradually to around 20 kΩ/sq for the films obtained by eleven deposition cycles with graphene oxide reduced at 250 °C. The formation of thin films on polyimide allows the forming of new flexible conductive materials, which can find applications, e.g., in biomedicine as new electroactive, low-cost, disposable sensors.
A Systematic Investigation of Models for Color Image Processing in Wound Size Estimation
Authors: Ferreira Filipe , Pires Ivan Miguel , Costa Mónica , Ponciano Vasco , Garcia Nuno M. , Zdravevski Eftim , Chorbev Ivan , Mihajlov Martin
Published: April 2021

In recent years, research in tracking and assessing wound severity using computerized image processing has increased. With the emergence of mobile devices, powerful functionalities and processing capabilities have provided multiple non-invasive wound evaluation opportunities in both clinical and non-clinical settings. With current imaging technologies, objective and reliable techniques provide qualitative information that can be further processed to provide quantitative information on the size, structure, and color characteristics of wounds. These efficient image analysis algorithms help determine the injury features and the progress of healing in a short time. This paper presents a systematic investigation of articles that specifically address the measurement of wounds’ sizes with image processing techniques, promoting the connection between computer science and health. Of the 208 studies identified by searching electronic databases, 20 were included in the review. From the perspective of image processing color models, the most dominant model was the hue, saturation, and value (HSV) color space. We proposed that a method for measuring the wound area must implement different stages, including conversion to grayscale for further implementation of the threshold and a segmentation method to measure the wound area as the number of pixels for further conversion to metric units. Regarding devices, mobile technology is shown to have reached the level of reliable accuracy.
Application of Supervised Machine Learning to Recognize Competent Level and Mixed Antinuclear Antibody Patterns Based on ICAP International Consensus
Authors: Wu Yi-Da , Sheu Ruey-Kai , Chung Chih-Wei , Wu Yen-Ching , Ou Chiao-Chi , Hsiao Chien-Wen , Chang Huang-Chen , Huang Ying-Chieh , Chen Yi-Ming , Lo Win-Tsung , Chen Lun-Chi , Huang Chien-Chung , Hsieh Tsu-Yi , Huang Wen-Nan , Yen Tsai-Hung , Chen Yun-Wen , Chen Chia-Yu , Chen Yi-Hsing
Published: April 2021

Background: Antinuclear antibody pattern recognition is vital for autoimmune disease diagnosis but labor-intensive for manual interpretation. To develop an automated pattern recognition system, we established machine learning models based on the International Consensus on Antinuclear Antibody Patterns (ICAP) at a competent level, mixed patterns recognition, and evaluated their consistency with human reading. Methods: 51,694 human epithelial cells (HEp-2) cell images with patterns assigned by experienced medical technologists collected in a medical center were used to train six machine learning algorithms and were compared by their performance. Next, we choose the best performing model to test the consistency with five experienced readers and two beginners. Results: The mean F1 score in each classification of the best performing model was 0.86 evaluated by Testing Data 1. For the inter-observer agreement test on Testing Data 2, the average agreement was 0.849 (κ) among five experienced readers, 0.844 between the best performing model and experienced readers, 0.528 between experienced readers and beginners. The results indicate that the proposed model outperformed beginners and achieved an excellent agreement with experienced readers. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that the developed model could reach an excellent agreement with experienced human readers using machine learning methods.
Survival Rate of Zygomatic Implants for Fixed Oral Maxillary Rehabilitations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Comparing Outcomes between Zygomatic and Regular Implants
Authors: Lorusso Felice , Conte Roberto , Inchingolo Francesco , Festa Felice , Scarano Antonio
Published: April 2021

Background: Zygomatic implants have been proposed alone or in combination with premaxillary conventional implants for severe resorbed maxillary atrophy rehabilitation. The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate through a qualitative systematic review and meta-analysis the survival rate of zygomatic implants in conjunction with regular fixtures for maxillary rehabilitation. Methods: The article screening was conducted on the PubMed/Medline and EMBASE electronic databases according to the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) guidelines. The scientific papers were included for qualitative analysis and risk-of-bias evaluation. Only the papers that included rehabilitation with zygomatic implants in combination with regular implants were considered for the meta-analysis comparative evaluation of the implant survival rate. Results: The paper search screened a total of 137 papers. After the initial screening, a total of 32 articles were considered for the qualitative analysis. There was a similar implant survival rate between zygomatic and premaxilla regular implants (p = 0.02; Z: 2.26). Conclusions: Zygomatic and conventional implants showed a high long-term survival rate for fixed maxillary rehabilitations, but few included studies reported the marginal bone loss after loading. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the pattern of marginal bone loss between zygomatic and conventional implants after long-term functional loading.
Differences in Graphomotor Skills by the Writing Medium and Children’s Gender
Authors: No Boram , Choi Naya
Published: April 2021

Factors of graphomotor skills may serve as indicators to determine a writer’s handwriting proficiency or acclimation to different writing surface textures. This study examines differences in children’s graphomotor skills based on types of writing medium and gender. Participants were 97 six-year-old Korean preschool children who had not received formal writing training prior to the study. Writing tasks were completed on a tablet screen and paper. Writing samples were analyzed using the Eye and Pen software to investigate spatial, temporal, and pressure exertion exhibited during the writing tasks. A repeated measures ANOVA revealed differences in graphomotor skills such as print size, writing speed, and writing pressure. Writing on a tablet screen decreased clarity of writing; print size and speed increased as the stylus slides across the tablet surface with relatively less friction, thereby decreasing the exertion of writing pressure. Analysis of writing differences according to gender indicated that boys generated larger print sizes than girls. Results suggest that while simple writing tasks may be feasible on the tablet screen, providing children with a larger writing medium and encouraging larger print sizes for writing practice, especially for boys, may be beneficial in the development of graphomotor skills among young learners.
From Resistance to Digital Technologies in the Context of the Reaction to Distance Learning in the School Context during COVID-19
Authors: Toto Giusi Antonia , Limone Pierpaolo
Published: April 2021

In the relationship between teachers and distance learning in the context of COIVD-19, a series of unprecedented dynamics have emerged relating to a process of open-air experimentation that is going on in the world of school. The main constructs investigated in this paper concern the professional perceptions of teachers in terms of their skills and resistances towards digital technologies. To investigate this topic, a questionnaire on distance learning was administered to a sample of 658 teachers. From a methodological point of view, factor and reliability analyses and correlation and regression analyses were conducted. From the analysis of the results, it emerged that the questionnaire measures the resistance of teachers to distance learning and focuses on three main dimensions (two positive and one negative) that link teachers’ perceptions to the resistance to distance learning. In conclusion, the theme of the acceptance of technologies in the practice of teachers is still a subject full of meaning for professional perception and vision. A second issue concerns precisely the relationship between digital technologies and users, which must no longer focus only on the relationship with students but also on the perspective of the other training actors, including teachers.
Characteristic Analysis of Fractional-Order Memristor-Based Hypogenetic Jerk System and Its DSP Implementation
Authors: Qin Chuan , Sun Kehui , He Shaobo
Published: April 2021

In this paper, a fractional-order memristive model with infinite coexisting attractors is investigated. The numerical solution of the system is derived based on the Adomian decomposition method (ADM), and its dynamic behaviors are analyzed by means of phase diagrams, bifurcation diagrams, Lyapunov exponent spectrum (LEs), dynamic map based on SE complexity and maximum Lyapunov exponent (MLE). Simulation results show that it has rich dynamic characteristics, including asymmetric coexisting attractors with different structures and offset boosting. Finally, the digital signal processor (DSP) implementation verifies the correctness of the solution algorithm and the physical feasibility of the system.
Channel Sounding and Scene Classification of Indoor 6G Millimeter Wave Channel Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Yin Liang , Yang Ruonan , Yao Yuliang
Published: April 2021

Millimeter wave, especially the high frequency millimeter wave near 100 GHz, is one of the key spectrum resources for the sixth generation (6G) mobile communication, which can be used for precise positioning, imaging and large capacity data transmission. Therefore, high frequency millimeter wave channel sounding is the first step to better understand 6G signal propagation. Because indoor wireless deployment is critical to 6G and different scenes classification can make future radio network optimization easy, we built a 6G indoor millimeter wave channel sounding system using just commercial instruments based on time-domain correlation method. Taking transmission and reception of a typical 93 GHz millimeter wave signal in the W-band as an example, four indoor millimeter wave communication scenes were modeled. Furthermore, we proposed a data-driven supervised machine learning method to extract fingerprint features from different scenes. Then we trained the scene classification model based on these features. Baseband data from receiver was transformed to channel Power Delay Profile (PDP), and then six fingerprint features were extracted for each scene. The decision tree, Support Vector Machine (SVM) and the optimal bagging channel scene classification algorithms were used to train machine learning model, with test accuracies of 94.3%, 86.4% and 96.5% respectively. The results show that the channel fingerprint classification model trained by machine learning method is effective. This method can be used in 6G channel sounding and scene classification to THz in the future.
An IOTA-Based Service Discovery Framework for Fog Computing
Authors: Tang Tsung-Yi , Hou Li-Yuan , Liang Tyng-Yeu
Published: April 2021

With the rise in fog computing, users are no longer restricted to only accessing resources located in central and distant clouds and can request services from neighboring fog nodes distributed over networks. This can effectively reduce the network latency of service responses and the load of data centers. Furthermore, it can prevent the Internet’s bandwidth from being used up due to massive data flows from end users to clouds. However, fog-computing resources are distributed over multiple levels of networks and are managed by different owners. Consequently, the problem of service discovery becomes quite complicated. For resolving this problem, a decentralized service discovery method is required. Accordingly, this research proposes a service discovery framework based on the distributed ledger technology of IOTA. The proposed framework enables clients to directly search for service nodes through any node in the IOTA Mainnet to achieve the goals of public access and high availability and avoid network attacks to distributed hash tables that are popularly used for service discovery. Moreover, clients can obtain more comprehensive information by visiting known nodes and select a fog node able to provide services with the shortest latency. Our experimental results have shown that the proposed framework is cost-effective for distributed service discovery due to the advantages of IOTA. On the other hand, it can indeed enable clients to obtain higher service quality by automatic node selection.
Interaction of Particles and Filter Fabric in Ultrafine Filtration
Authors: Bächle Volker , Morsch Patrick , Fränkle Bernd , Gleiß Marco , Nirschl Hermann
Published: April 2021

Filter fabrics are frequently used in the separation of particle-laden process streams. Especially for low-concentration and fine particles in the micrometer range, separation on filter fabrics offers considerable advantages over alternative processes. In this process, the inflowing particles are prevented from flowing through the meshes of the fabric. This interaction results in the initial resistance of the filtration not corresponding to the pure water resistance of the filter fabric. Knowledge of this increase in resistance is rare, but it leads to a significant increase in flow resistance, and thus a strong reduction in the hydraulic load on the filter apparatus. Within the scope of this investigation, measurements for 30 filter fabrics and their interaction with 3 particle systems is presented and their effect on the flow behavior is discussed. The knowledge allows an improved design of filter apparatus by correcting the pure water resistance to the resistance with particle interaction and improve the performance of ultra-fine filtration process.
Formation of Environmentally Friendly Tourist Behaviors in Ecotourism Destinations in China
Authors: Ren Jie , Su Kaiwen , Chang Yaoyin , Wen Yali
Published: April 2021

The rapid development of ecotourism provides a win–win path for ecological and environmental protection and sustainable economic development. However, environmental problems are increasingly prominent in ecotourism destinations, which seriously hinders their sustainable development. This study explored how environmental knowledge, environmental perceived value, perceived consumption effectiveness, and environmental attitudes stimulate and shape environmentally friendly tourist behaviors. A sample survey of 406 tourists at Taibai Mountain National Nature Reserve in China was conducted, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to assess the causal relationships in the formation of environmentally friendly behaviors. The results show that environmental knowledge has a significant positive impact on environmental attitudes, environmental perceived value, and perceived consumption effectiveness. Further, environmental perceived value has a significant positive impact on environmental attitudes and environmentally friendly behavior; environmental attitudes and environmental behavior have a significant positive impact; environmental awareness has a significant positive impact on environmental behaviors; and perceived consumption effectiveness has a significant positive impact on environmentally friendly behaviors and is the most important direct predictor. Overall, the results reveal the formation mechanism of environmental friendly behavior, and provide a scientific basis and theoretical support for the stimulation and shaping of environmentally friendly tourist behaviors in ecotourism destinations.
Characterization of the Teaching Profile within the Framework of Education 4.0
Authors: Ramírez-Montoya María Soledad , Loaiza-Aguirre María Isabel , Zúñiga-Ojeda Alexandra , Portuguez-Castro May
Published: April 2021

The authors of the Education 4.0 concept postulated a flexible combination of digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving in educational environments linked to real-world scenarios. Therefore, teachers have been challenged to develop new methods and resources to integrate into their planning in order to help students develop these desirable and necessary skills; hence, the question: What are the characteristics of a teacher to consider within the framework of Education 4.0? This study was conducted in a higher education institution in Ecuador, with the aim to identify the teaching profile required in new undergraduate programs within the framework of Education 4.0 in order to contribute to decision-making about teacher recruitment, professional training and evaluation, human talent management, and institutional policies interested in connecting competencies with the needs of society. Descriptive and exploratory approaches, where we applied quantitative and qualitative instruments (surveys) to 337 undergraduate students in education programs and 313 graduates, were used. We also included interviews with 20 experts in the educational field and five focus groups with 32 chancellors, school principals, university professors, and specialists in the educational area. The data were triangulated, and the results were organized into the categories of (a) processes as facilitators (b), soft skills, (c) human sense, and (d) the use of technologies. The results outlined the profile of a professor as a specialized professional with competencies for innovation, complex problem solving, entrepreneurship, collaboration, international perspective, leadership, and connection with the needs of society. This research study may be of value to administrators, educational and social entrepreneurs, trainers, and policy-makers interested in implementing innovative training programs and in supporting management and policy decisions.
Mid-Infrared Ultra-Short Pulse Generation in a Gas-Filled Hollow-Core Photonic Crystal Fiber Pumped by Two-Color Pulses
Authors: Fourcade-Dutin Coralie , Zurita-Miranda Olivia , Mounaix Patrick , Bigourd Damien
Published: April 2021

We show numerically that ultra-short pulses can be generated in the mid-infrared when a gas filled hollow-core fiber is pumped by a fundamental pulse and its second harmonic. The generation process originates from a cascaded nonlinear phenomenon starting from a spectral broadening of the two pulses followed by an induced phase-matched four wave-mixing lying in the mid-infrared combined with a dispersive wave. By selecting this mid-infrared band with a spectral filter, we demonstrate the generation of ultra-short 60 fs pulses at a 3–4 µm band and a pulse duration of 20 fs can be reached with an additional phase compensator.
Mechanism of Delayed Convulsion in Fish: The Actions of Norepinephrine in Spinal Cord
Authors: Lee Cheng-Linn , Kominami Yuri , Ushio Hideki
Published: April 2021

Cranial spiking (CS) is among the most popular slaughtering methods for delaying the rigor mortis progress of fish muscles. However, it may cause a convulsion (subsequently referred to as delayed convulsion), which undermines the meat quality and taste. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism underlying the delayed convulsion and examine its influence on ATP consumption. Ten carps, nine tilapias, ten rainbow trouts, two ayus, three greenling, thirty-five red seabreams, two striped jack and two stone flounders underwent CS around the medulla oblongata area, which induced different delayed convulsion profiles specific to each species. To investigate the norepinephrine (NE) actions related to delayed convulsion, 27 red seabreams, a representative fish species that exhibits delayed convulsion, were treated with a monoamine-depleting agent, reserpine, or with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, pargyline, two hours before CS. Spinal cord destruction (SCD) was employed to completely prevent spinal cord functions of the fish in another group. Compared with the control group (CS only), the reserpine, pargyline, and SCD groups showed significantly inhibited delayed convulsion and ATP consumption. This suggests that delayed convulsion is the main ATP-consuming response. Our findings suggest that delayed clonic convulsion in red seabreams is associated with the rapid decrease in spinal cord NE levels, which triggered the rebound motor neuron hyperactivity.
A Review into the Effectiveness of Ozone Technology for Improving the Safety and Preserving the Quality of Fresh-Cut Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Botondi Rinaldo , Barone Marco , Grasso Claudia
Published: April 2021

In recent years, consumers have become increasingly aware of the nutritional benefits brought by the regular consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, which reduces the risk of health problems and disease. High-quality raw materials are essential since minimally processed produce is highly perishable and susceptible to quality deterioration. The cutting, peeling, cleaning and packaging processes as well as the biochemical, sensorial and microbial changes that occur on plant tissue surfaces may accelerate produce deterioration. In this regard, biological contamination can be primary, which occurs when the infectious organisms directly contaminate raw materials, and/or by cross-contamination, which occurs during food preparation processes such as washing. Among the many technologies available to extend the shelf life of fresh-cut products, ozone technology has proven to be a highly effective sterilization technique. In this paper, we examine the main studies that have focused on the effects of gaseous ozone and ozonated water treatments on microbial growth and quality retention of fresh-cut fruit and vegetables. The purpose of this scientific literature review is to broaden our knowledge of eco-friendly technologies, such as ozone technology, which extends the shelf life and maintains the quality of fresh produce without emitting hazardous chemicals that negatively affect plant material and the environment.
A Stochastic Estimation Framework for Yearly Evolution of Worldwide Electricity Consumption
Authors: Abu Al-Haija Qasem
Published: April 2021

The determination of electric energy consumption is remarked as one of the most vital objectives for electrical engineers as it is highly essential in determining the actual energy demand made on the existing electricity supply. Therefore, it is important to find out about the increasing trend in electric energy demands and use all over the world. In this work, we present a prediction scheme for the progression of worldwide aggregates of cumulative electricity consumption using the time series of the records released annually for the net electricity use throughout the world. Consequently, we make use of an autoregressive (AR) model by retaining the best possible autoregression order recording the highest regression accuracy and the lowest standardized regression error. The resultant regression scheme was proficiently employed to regress and forecast the evolution of next-decade data for the net consumption of electricity worldwide from 1980 to 2019 (in billion kilowatt-hours). The experimental outcomes exhibited that the highest accuracy in regressing and forecasting the global consumption of electricity is 95.7%. The prediction results disclose a linearly growing trend in the amount of electricity issued annually over the past four decades’ observation for the global net electricity consumption dataset.
Process Engineering of the Acetone-Ethanol-Butanol (ABE) Fermentation in a Linear and Feedback Loop Cascade of Continuous Stirred Tank Reactors: Experiments, Modeling and Optimization
Authors: Karstens Katja , Trippel Sergej , Götz Peter
Published: April 2021

The production of butanol, acetone and ethanol by Clostridium acetobutylicum is a biphasic fermentation process. In the first phase the carbohydrate substrate is metabolized to acetic and butyric acid, in the following second phase the product spectrum is shifted towards the economically interesting solvents. Here we present a cascade of six continuous stirred tank reactors (CCSTR), which allows performing the time dependent metabolic phases of an acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) batch fermentation in a spatial domain. Experimental data of steady states under four operating conditions—with variations of the pH in the first bioreactor between 4.3 and 5.6 as well as the total dilution rate between 0.042 h−1 and 0.092 h−1—were used to optimize and validate a corresponding mathematical model. Beyond a residence time distribution representation and substrate, biomass and product kinetics this model also includes the differentiation of cells between the metabolic states. Model simulations predict a final product concentration of 8.2 g butanol L−1 and a productivity of 0.75 g butanol L−1 h−1 in the CCSTR operated at pHbr1 of 4.3 and D = 0.092 h−1, while 31% of the cells are differentiated to the solventogenic state. Aiming at an enrichment of solvent-producing cells, a feedback loop was introduced into the cascade, sending cells from a later state of the process (bioreactor 4) back to an early stage of the process (bioreactor 2). In agreement with the experimental observations, the model accurately predicted an increase in butanol formation rate in bioreactor stages 2 and 3, resulting in an overall butanol productivity of 0.76 g L−1 h−1 for the feedback loop cascade. The here presented CCSTR and the validated model will serve to investigate further ABE fermentation strategies for a controlled metabolic switch.
Expert Opinion on the Management of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in the Middle East with a Focus on the Use of Silymarin
Authors: Hashem Ahmed , Shastri Yogesh , Al Otaibi Malfi , Buchel Elwin , Saleh Hussam , Ahmad Reyaz , Ahmed Hamouda , Al Idris Fateh , Ahmed Saleh , Guda Mohamed , Gillessen Anton
Published: April 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty disease (NAFLD) is amongst the leading causes of chronic liver disease worldwide. The prevalence of NAFLD in the Middle East is 32%, similar to that observed worldwide. The clinicians in this region face several challenges in diagnosing and treating patients with NAFLD. Additionally, there are no national or regional guidelines to address the concerns faced with current treatment options. Silymarin, derived from milk thistle, provides a rational and clinically proven approach to hepatoprotection. This article focuses on addressing regional diagnostic challenges and provides clear guidance and potential solutions for the use of Silymarin in the treatment of NAFLD in the Middle East. Both clinical and preclinical studies have highlighted the efficiency of Silymarin in managing NAFLD by reducing liver disease progression and improving patient symptoms and quality of life, alongside being safe and well tolerated. An expert panel of professionals from the Middle East convened to establish a set of regional-specific diagnostics. A consensus was established to aid general physicians to address the diagnostic challenges in the region. In conclusion, Silymarin can be considered beneficial in treating NAFLD and should be initiated as early as possible and continued as long as necessary.
The Healthy Gluten-Free Diet: Practical Tips to Prevent Metabolic Disorders and Nutritional Deficiencies in Celiac Patients
Authors: Rinninella Emanuele , Cintoni Marco , Raoul Pauline , Triarico Silvia , Dionisi Tommaso , Gasbarrini Giovanni Battista , Gasbarrini Antonio , Mele Maria Cristina
Published: April 2021

The gluten-free diet (GFD) is the cornerstone treatment for coeliac disease (CD). However, a healthy GFD is more complex than the only exclusion of gluten-containing foods. Most celiac patients do not receive nutritional advice and tend to consume industrial gluten-free products (GFPs), which often lack fiber, vitamins, and other micronutrients while being rich in saturated fats and refined sugars. This review focuses on the main potential metabolic disorders and nutritional deficiencies in CD patients at diagnosis and dissects the main nutritional and metabolic issues due to a non-balanced GFD. Nutritional tips to achieve an adequate dietary approach in CD are provided. We also compared the main nutritional components of naturally gluten-free cereals (including pseudocereals) to give an exhaustive overview of the possible healthy alternatives to processed GFPs. Clinicians and dietitians should be systematically involved in the diagnosis of CD to monitor the appropriateness of GFD and the patient’s nutritional status over time.
Experimental Verification of the Balance between Elastic Pressure and Ionic Osmotic Pressure of Highly Swollen Charged Gels
Authors: Nakajima Tasuku , Hoshino Ken-ichi , Guo Honglei , Kurokawa Takayuki , Gong Jian Ping
Published: April 2021

The equilibrium swelling degree of a highly swollen charged gel has been thought to be determined by the balance between its elastic pressure and ionic osmotic pressure. However, the full experimental verification of this balance has not previously been conducted. In this study, we verified the balance between the elastic pressure and ionic osmotic pressure of charged gels using purely experimental methods. We used tetra-PEG gels created using the molecular stent method (St-tetra-PEG gels) as the highly swollen charged gels to precisely and separately control their network structure and charge density. The elastic pressure of the gels was measured through the indentation test, whereas the ionic osmotic pressure was determined by electric potential measurement without any strong assumptions or fittings. We confirmed that the two experimentally determined pressures of the St-tetra-PEG gels were well balanced at their swelling equilibrium, suggesting the validity of the aforementioned relationship. Furthermore, from single-strand level analysis, we investigated the structural requirements of the highly swollen charged gels in which the elasticity and ionic osmosis are balanced at their swelling equilibrium.
Territorial Assessment of the East Kazakhstan Geo/Ecotourism: Sustainable Travel Prospects in the Southern Altai Area
Authors: Chlachula Jiri , Zhensikbayeva Nazgul Zh. , Yegorina Anna V. , Kabdrakhmanova Nazym K. , Czerniawska Jolanta , Kumarbekuly Sanat
Published: April 2021

In spite of picturesque landscapes, natural beauties and authentic traditional lifestyles to be seen in East Kazakhstan, tourism is far from being developed. The Kazakh Altai (called the Kazakh Switzerland) is one the most colourful parts of the country and, indeed, all Central Asia. The attractiveness of this geographically isolated region (formerly a part of the Imperial Russia), consisting of rocky semi-deserts, vast parkland-steppes, and rugged mountain terrains, is reflected in its distinctive geological and geomorphological character, its pristine nature, and its extraordinary geodiversity and biodiversity. This study presents a roster of geotourism and ecotourism loci for the broader Altai area within a framework of sustainable development. The modelled assessment of the tourism and recreation potential is based upon multi-proxy analyses of GIS, DEM, and cartographic data. It integrates the most appealing natural (biotic and abiotic) site-specific natural features across all physiographic zones within a broad region. The most significant and representative geosites fall within three geographic sectors suitable for geo- and ecotourism. Prospects for travel to these places are enhanced by the presence of numerous prehistoric archaeological sites and historical monuments, which document the rich, multi-ethnic background of Kazakhstan and the ancient Silk Road that traverses it. These geological, environmental and cultural resources, and the regional geoheritage and environmental conservation concepts have been figured into strategies for economic growth of rural Kazakhstan. Visitors travelling to this most appealing region are constrained by climate of pronounced continentality, seasonality, geographic accessibility, the international border-zone regulations and a lack of services of an international standard.
Influence of the Perception of Barriers in Practice of PA in Adolescents: Explanatory Model
Authors: Portela-Pino Iago , Alvariñas-Villaverde Myriam , Martínez-Torres Javier , Pino-Juste Margarita
Published: April 2021

Background: Sedentarism is an important risk factor for non-communicable diseases. To avoid it, it is necessary to establish the barriers which influence a low level of practice of Physical Activity. Methods: This study, conducted with 833 students, aims to describe a model to explain the barriers determining the level of practice of Physical Activity in adolescents according to age, school year, BMI and gender. The inclusion of the analyzed barriers followed the tetra-factorial model: Body image/physical and social anxiety; Tiredness/laziness; Responsibilities/lack of time and Environment/facilities. Results: The barriers to Physical Activity in adolescents are fatigue and sloth, and temporary obligations. The barrier that least influences the practice of Physical Activity is the environment and body image. It is determined that the subjects with the lowest Physical Activity index were those with a high fatigue and laziness score and higher age. The level of physical activity of this population is medium (95% CI, 2.8274–2.9418). Conclusions: It is necessary to overcome tiredness or apathy towards the practice of Physical Activity, especially in those under 16 years of age.
Associations between Nurse Staffing Levels, Patient Experience, and Hospital Rating
Authors: Hong Kyung Jin , Cho Sung-Hyun
Published: April 2021

The current study aimed to examine patient experience scores and differences in the scores based on the region and nurse staffing level of hospitals as well as to verify the effect of nurse-related patient experience scores on the overall rating of hospitals. Secondary data from the second Korean Patient Experience Survey—conducted using the cross-sectional design method—were analyzed, and 146 hospitals were included. Patient experience scores included six dimensions, and hospitals were categorized as: tertiary or general hospitals based on their type; capital and non-capital region hospitals based on regions; and beds-nurse or patients-nurse ratios were used based on nurse staffing levels. Pearson’s correlation, simple regression, and multiple regression analysis methods were used. Among the six patient experience dimensions, the nurse-related patient experience score of 86.0 was the highest, whereas patient rights score of 78.4 was lowest. Moreover, the patient experience score for general hospitals with low nurse staffing grade was low, and the nurse experience score affected the overall hospital rating in general hospitals (p = 0.040). Policies to improve nurse staffing level are required to provide high-quality nursing care focused on communication with patients, which can enhance patient experience and satisfaction.
Factors Associated with Poor Glycemic Control Amongst Rural Residents with Diabetes in Korea
Authors: Ahn Junhee , Yang Youngran
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Glycemic control is an effective way to reduce the cardiovascular complications of diabetes. The purpose of this study was to identify the factors associated with poor glycemic control amongst rural residents with diabetes in Korea. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional analysis was conducted amongst a total of 522 participants who had completed baseline health examinations for the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) Rural Cohort from 2005 to 2011. The subjects were divided into two groups: the good glycemic control group (GCG) (glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C) < 7%) and the poor GCG (HbA1C ≥ 7%). Logistic regression was used to examine the role of sociodemographics, health-related behavior, comorbidity and diabetes-related and clinical factors in poor glycemic control amongst rural residents with diabetes. (3) Results: In total, 48.1% of participants were in the poor GCG. Poor GCG was significantly associated with drinking (odds ratio (OR) = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.24–0.71), lack of regular physical activity (OR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.03–2.76), fasting blood glucose (FBG) > 130 mg/dL (OR = 7.80, 95% CI = 4.35–13.98), diabetes for > 7 years (OR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.08–2.98), cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.05–2.84) and positive urine glucose (OR = 6.24, 95% CI = 1.32–29.44). (4) Conclusion: Intensive glucose control interventions should target individuals amongst rural residents with diabetes who do not engage in regular physical activity, have been diagnosed with diabetes for more than seven years and who have high fasting-blood glucose, high cholesterol levels and glucose-positive urine.