bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamic Analysis of Waste Vegetable Oil Conversion to Biodiesel with Solar Energy
Authors: León José A. , Montero Gisela , Coronado Marcos A. , Ayala José R. , Montes Daniela G. , Pérez Laura J. , Quintana Lisandra , Armenta Jesús M.
Published: March 2022

Exergy and energy analyses of two biodiesel production processes that integrate solar energy as the main energy source were developed to determine the process with the higher efficiency from an energy and exergy approach. The biodiesel production processes were simulated in ASPEN PLUS®, and the solar energy supply was studied in TRNSYS®, using EXCEL® simultaneously for the exergetic analysis. The solar thermal energy collection system can supply 81% of the energy required by the alkali process in the Flash separation equipment. For the supercritical process, solar thermal energy can supply 74.5% of the energy in the preheating and separation stages. The energy efficiency of the supercritical process is higher; nevertheless, the exergetic efficiency of the alkaline process is higher than the supercritical one. Solar collection systems contribute from 85% to 93% of the exergy destroyed by the global process for both cases. The alkaline biodiesel production process has the highest advantages when using solar energy as the main source of energy, compared to a process in supercritical conditions that presents greater irreversibilities and requires more infrastructure to collect the solar resource. However, using solar energy as the foremost energy source offers an alternative to fossil fuels, and it provides an environmental benefit concurrently with the use of biodiesel.
Laccases—Versatile Enzymes Used to Reduce Environmental Pollution
Authors: Paraschiv Gigel , Ferdes Mariana , Ionescu Mariana , Moiceanu Georgiana , Zabava Bianca Stefania , Dinca Mirela Nicoleta
Published: March 2022

The accumulation of waste and toxic compounds has become increasingly harmful to the environment and human health. In this context, the use of laccases has become a focus of interest, due to the properties of these versatile enzymes: low substrate specificity, and water formation as a non-toxic end product. Thus, we begin our study with a general overview of the importance of laccase for the environment and industry, starting with the sources of laccases (plant, bacterial and fungal laccases), the structure and mechanism of laccases, microbial biosynthesis, and the immobilization of laccases. Then, we continue with an overview of agro-waste treatment by laccases wherein we observe the importance of laccases for the biodisponibilization of substrates and the biodegradation of agro-industrial byproducts; we then show some aspects regarding the degradation of xenobiotic compounds, dyes, and pharmaceutical products. The objective of this research is to emphasize and fully investigate the effects of laccase action on the decomposition of lignocellulosic materials and on the removal of harmful compounds from soil and water, in order to provide a sustainable solution to reducing environmental pollution.
Artificial Neural Network Based Optimal Feedforward Torque Control of Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines: A Feasibility Study and Comparison with the State-of-the-Art
Authors: Buettner Max A. , Monzen Niklas , Hackl Christoph M.
Published: March 2022

A novel Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Based Optimal Feedforward Torque Control (OFTC) strategy is proposed which, after proper ANN design, training and validation, allows to analytically compute the optimal reference currents (minimizing copper and iron losses) for Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines (IPMSMs) with highly operating point dependent nonlinear electric and magnetic characteristics. In contrast to conventional OFTC, which either utilizes large look-up tables (LUTs; with more than three input parameters) or computes the optimal reference currents numerically or analytically but iteratively (due to the necessary online linearization), the proposed ANN-based OFTC strategy does not require iterations nor a decision tree to find the optimal operation strategy such as e.g., Maximum Torque per Losses (MTPL), Maximum Current (MC) or Field Weakening (FW). Therefore, it is (much) faster and easier to implement while (i) still machine nonlinearities and nonidealities such as e.g., magnetic cross-coupling and saturation and speed-dependent iron losses can be considered and (ii) very accurate optimal reference currents are obtained. Comprehensive simulation results for a real and highly nonlinear IPMSM clearly show these benefits of the proposed ANN-based OFTC approach compared to conventional OFTC strategies using LUT-based, numerical or analytical computation of the reference currents.
Can Clean Heating in Winter in Northern China Reduce Air Pollution?—Empirical Analysis Based on the PSM-DID Method
Authors: Wang Si , Huang Qiaojie , Liu Qiang , Sun Demei
Published: March 2022

In northern China, a large volume of coal is consumed for heating in winter, resulting in frequent smog and air pollution, which has a serious effect on people’s health and quality of life. Clean heating is a national important livelihood strategy related to residents’ warmth. Whether haze weather can be effectively reduced and whether the heating energy structure can really be improved needs to be verified. This study takes 115 heating cities in the northern area as the research objects, takes 12 pilot cities implementing clean heating policy as the treatment group, employs the Propensity Score Matching method to match the non-pilot cities to get the reasonable control group city, uses the double-difference method to carry out the quantitative test on the implementation effect of the clean heating policy. The results show that clean heating in northern China reduces the air pollution in winter, and the air pollution level in winter decreases 46.6% after the implementation of the policy. Clean heating is an effective environmental regulation method that can control the level of winter air pollution from the source.
Uncertainty Study of the In-Vessel Phase of a Severe Accident in a Pressurized Water Reactor
Authors: Šadek Siniša , Grgić Davor , Allison Chris , Perez-Ferragut Marina
Published: March 2022

A comprehensive uncertainty analysis in the event of a severe accident in a two-loop pressurized water reactor is conducted using an uncertainty package integrated in the ASYST code. The plant model is based on the nuclear power plant (NPP) Krško, a Westinghouse-type power plant. The station blackout scenario with a small break loss of coolant accident is analyzed, and all processes of the in-vessel phase are covered. A best estimate plus uncertainty (BEPU) methodology with probabilistic propagation of input uncertainty is used. The uncertain parameters are selected based on their impact on the safety criteria, the operation of the NPP safety systems and to describe uncertainties in the initial and boundary conditions. The number of required calculations is determined by the Wilks formula from the desired percentile and confidence level, and the values of the uncertain parameters are randomly sampled according to appropriate distribution functions. Results showing the thermal hydraulic behaviour of the primary system and the propagation of core degradation are presented for 124 successful calculations, which is the minimum number of required calculations to estimate a 95/95 tolerance limit at the 3rd order of the Wilks formula application. A statistical analysis of the dispersion of results is performed afterwards. Calculation of the influence measures shows a strong correlation between the decay heat and the representative output quantities, which are the mass of hydrogen produced during the oxidation and the height of molten material in the lower head. As the decay heat increases, an increase in the production of hydrogen and the amount of molten material is clearly observed. The correlation is weak for other input uncertain parameters representing physical phenomena, initial and boundary conditions. The influence of the order of the Wilks formula is investigated and it is found that increasing the number of calculations does not significantly change the bounding values or the distribution of results for this particular application.
MaxEnt Modeling to Estimate the Impact of Climate Factors on Distribution of Pinus densiflora
Authors: Duan Xiangguang , Li Junqing , Wu Shuhong
Published: March 2022

Pinus densiflora is an important evergreen coniferous species with both economic and ecological value. It is an endemic species in East Asia. Global climate warming greatly interferes with species survival. This study explored the impact of climate change on the distribution of this species and the relationship between its geographical distribution and climate demand, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the protection of P. densiflora under the background of global warming. This research used 565 valid data points and 19 typical climatic environmental factors distributed in China, Japan, and South Korea. The potential distribution area of P. densiflora in East Asia under the last glacial maximum (LGM), mid-Holocene, the current situation and two scenarios (RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5) in the future (2050s and 2070s) was simulated by the MaxEnt model. The species distribution model toolbox in ArcGIS software was used to analyze the potential distribution range and change of P. densiflora. The contribution rates, jackknife test and environmental variable response curves were used to assess the importance of key climate factors. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to evaluate model accuracy. The MaxEnt model had an excellent simulation effect (AUC = 0.982). The forecast showed that the Korean Peninsula and Japan were highly suitable areas for P. densiflora, and the area had little change. Moreover, during the LGM, there was no large-scale retreat to the south, and it was likely to survive in situ in mountain shelters. The results suggested that Japan may be the origin of P. densiflora rather than the Shandong Peninsula of China. The distribution area of P. densiflora in the mid-Holocene and future scenarios was reduced compared with the current distribution, and the reduction of future distribution was greater, indicating that climate warming will have certain negative impacts on the distribution of P. densiflora in the future. The precipitation of the warmest quarter (Bio18), temperature seasonality (Bio4), mean annual temperature (Bio1) and mean temperature of the wettest quarter (Bio8) had the greatest impact on the distribution area of P. densiflora.
Assessment and Sustainability of Logging Operations in Calabrian Pine High Forests
Authors: Bernardi Bruno , Macrì Giorgio , Falcone Giacomo , Stillitano Teodora , Benalia Souraya , De Luca Anna Irene
Published: March 2022

Forest mechanisation plays an important role in increasing labour productivity and reducing production costs. This work aims at evaluating various logging scenarios in Calabrian pine high forests, considering technical, economic and environmental aspects. The cut-to-length system was adopted and structured as follows: felling and processing operations were carried out using a medium-sized chainsaw while extraction of the processed material was carried out using three different vehicles for timber extraction: (i) by cable skidder, (ii) by grapple skidder and (iii) by a forwarder. The methodology was based on productivity analysis and production cost analysis, while for environmental performance, the life cycle assessment (LCA) approach was adopted. The selected functional unit (FU) was referred to as 1 h of logging operations. However, to assess the resulting usefulness, further analyses were performed using an alternative FU consisting of 1 m3 of round wood. The study’s outcomes show the complexity in achieving an optimal balance between productivity, economic aspects and sustainable management in forest operations.
Quantitative Analysis of Methodological and Environmental Influences on Survival of Planted Mangroves in Restoration and Afforestation
Authors: Gorman Daniel , Vanderklift Mathew A. , Lafratta Anna
Published: March 2022

Mangrove planting has been employed for decades to achieve aims associated with restoration and afforestation. Often, survival of planted mangroves is low. Improving survival might be aided by augmenting the understanding of which planting methods and environmental variables most influence plant survival across a range of contexts. The aim of this study was to provide a global synthesis of the influence of planting methods and background environment on mangrove survival. This was achieved through a global meta-analysis, which compiled published survival rates for the period 1979–2021 and analyzed the influence of decisions about minimum spacing and which life stage to plant, and environmental contexts such as climate, tidal range and coastal setting on the reported survival of planted individuals, classified by species and root morphology. Generalized Additive Mixed Modeling (GAMM) revealed that planting larger mangrove saplings was associated with increased survival for pencil-rooted species such as Avicennia spp. and Sonneratia spp. (17% increase cf. seedlings), while greater plant spacing was associated with higher survival of stilt-rooted species in the family Rhizophoraceae (39% increase when doubling plant spacing from 1.5 to 3.0 m). Tidal range showed a nonlinear positive correlation with survival for pencil-rooted species, and the coastal environmental setting was associated with significant variation in survival for both pencil- and stilt-rooted species. The results suggest that improving decisions about which species to plant in different contexts, and intensive care after planting, is likely to improve the survival of planted mangroves.
Melt-Spun, Cross-Section Modified Polycaprolactone Fibers for Use in Tendon and Ligament Tissue Engineering
Authors: Bauer Benedict , Emonts Caroline , Bonten Louisa , Annan Rokaya , Merkord Felix , Vad Thomas , Idrissi Akram , Gries Thomas , Blaeser Andreas
Published: March 2022

Tissue Engineering is considered a promising route to address existing deficits of autografts and permanent synthetic prostheses for tendons and ligaments. However, the requirements placed on the scaffold material are manifold and include mechanical, biological and degradation-related aspects. In addition, scalable processes and FDA-approved materials should be applied to ensure the transfer into clinical practice. To accommodate these aspects, this work focuses on the high-scale fabrication of high-strength and highly oriented polycaprolactone (PCL) fibers with adjustable cross-sectional geometry and degradation kinetics applying melt spinning technology. Four different fiber cross-sections were investigated to account for potential functionalization and cell growth guidance. Mechanical properties and crystallinity were studied for a 24-week exposure to phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) at 37 °C. PCL fibers were further processed into scaffolds using multistage circular braiding with three different hierarchical structures. One structure was selected based on its morphology and scaled up in thickness to match the requirements for a human anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) replacement. Applying a broad range of draw ratios (up to DR9.25), high-strength PCL fibers with excellent tensile strength (up to 69 cN/tex) could be readily fabricated. The strength retention after 24 weeks in PBS at 37 °C was 83–93%. The following braiding procedure did not affect the scaffolds’ mechanical properties as long as the number of filaments and the braiding angle remained constant. Up-scaled PCL scaffolds resisted loads of up to 4353.88 ± 37.30 N, whilst matching the stiffness of the human ACL (111–396 N/mm). In conclusion, this work demonstrates the fabrication of highly oriented PCL fibers with excellent mechanical properties. The created fibers represent a promising building block that can be further processed into versatile textile implants for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Study of Water Distribution, Textural and Colour Properties of Cold Formulated and Air-Dried Apple Snacks
Authors: Castagnini Juan Manuel , Tappi Silvia , Tylewicz Urszula , Laghi Luca , Rocculi Pietro
Published: March 2022

Vacuum impregnation is considered a cold formulation technology since it allows the incorporation of a desired functional compound into porous plant tissue without applying any heat. It is widely used in combination with the drying process to obtain added-value snacks. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of two trehalose concentrations (5 and 10% w/w) on: (i) the water state and texture evolution during the air drying (50 °C, 8 h) of apple snacks vacuum impregnated with blueberry juice, and on (ii) the colour of the final dried apple snacks. The results of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) showed that trehalose affects the water mobility of the samples during drying especially after 200–300 min of drying. In terms of textural properties, trehalose could increase the crispier characteristic of the samples impregnated with trehalose at the end of drying. Significative changes were found in terms of chroma and hue angle.
Effects of κ-Carrageenan and Guar Gum on the Rheological Properties and Microstructure of Phycocyanin Gel
Authors: Lei Yu-chen , Zhao Xia , Li Dong , Wang Li-jun , Wang Yong
Published: March 2022

The effects of two polysaccharides on the performance and microstructure of phycocyanin gels were studied by choosing anionic polysaccharides (κ-carrageenan) and neutral polysaccharides (guar gum). The linear and nonlinear rheological properties and microstructure of the phycocyanin-polysaccharide composite gel were evaluated. The results show that both κ-carrageenan and guar gum can enhance the network structure of phycocyanin gel and weaken the frequency dependence. The sample with 0.4% κ-carrageenan has the highest gel strength. All samples exhibited Type I behavior (inter-cycling strain-thinning) and mainly elastic behavior. As the concentration of κ-carrageenan increases, hydrophobic interactions and disulfide bonds play an essential role in maintaining the three-dimensional structure of the gel. Too high a concentration of guar gum hinders the formation of protein disulfide bonds. This research can provide a theoretical basis for designing and developing new food products based on phycocyanin and different polysaccharides with ideal texture in the food industry.
Preparation of Highly Substituted Sulfated Alfalfa Polysaccharides and Evaluation of Their Biological Activity
Authors: Li Zhiwei , Wei Yuanhao , Wang Yawen , Zhang Ran , Zhang Chuanjie , Wang Caixing , Yan Xuebing
Published: March 2022

Alfalfa polysaccharides (AP) receive wide attention in the field of medicine, because of their anti-inflammatory property. However, AP has high molecular weight and poor water solubility, resulting in low biological activity. We wanted to obtain highly bioactive alfalfa polysaccharides for further research. Herein, we successfully synthesized highly substituted sulfated alfalfa polysaccharides (SAP) via the chlorosulfonic acid (CSA)-pyridine (Pyr) method, which was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). Under the best reaction conditions, that is, the reaction temperature, time, and ratio of CSA to Pyr being 55 °C, 2.25 h, and 1.5:1, respectively, the maximum degree of substitution of SAP can reach up to 0.724. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy also confirmed the existence of sulfonic acid groups on SAP. Despite the increased average molecular weight of SAP, its water solubility is improved, which is beneficial for its biological activity. Further in vitro results showed that SAP exhibited better antioxidant activity and antibacterial ability than AP. Besides, the former can efficiently enhance the viability of oxidatively stressed intestinal epithelial cells compared with the latter. Furthermore, SAP has the potential to inhibit obesity. It is concluded that sulfation modification could improve the antioxidant, antibacterial, bovine intestinal epithelial cells’ proliferation-promoting, and the obesity inhibition abilities of AP. The improvement of AP biological activity may provide references for the utilization of plant extracts that have weaker biological activity.
The Evolution of Invertebrate Animals
Authors: Bertrand Stephanie , Escriva Hector
Published: March 2022

The current diversity of metazoans has been achieved through a long process of evolution since the appearance of their unicellular ancestor about 1000 Mya [...]
Simulation Research on the Methods of Multi-Gene Region Association Analysis Based on a Functional Linear Model
Authors: Li Shijing , Zhou Fujie , Shen Jiayu , Zhang Hui , Wen Yongxian
Published: March 2022

Genome-wide association analysis is an important approach to identify genetic variants associated with complex traits. Complex traits are not only affected by single gene loci, but also by the interaction of multiple gene loci. Studies of association between gene regions and quantitative traits are of great significance in revealing the genetic mechanism of biological development. There have been a lot of studies on single-gene region association analysis, but the application of functional linear models in multi-gene region association analysis is still less. In this paper, a functional multi-gene region association analysis test method is proposed based on the functional linear model. From the three directions of common multi-gene region method, multi-gene region weighted method and multi-gene region loci weighted method, that test method is studied combined with computer simulation. The following conclusions are obtained through computer simulation: (a) The functional multi-gene region association analysis test method has higher power than the functional single gene region association analysis test method; (b) The functional multi-gene region weighted method performs better than the common functional multi-gene region method; (c) the functional multi-gene region loci weighted method is the best method for association analysis on three directions of the common multi-gene region method; (d) the performance of the Step method and Multi-gene region loci weighted Step for multi-gene regions is the best in general. Functional multi-gene region association analysis test method can theoretically provide a feasible method for the study of complex traits affected by multiple genes.
SEM3D: A 3D High-Fidelity Numerical Earthquake Simulator for Broadband (0–10 Hz) Seismic Response Prediction at a Regional Scale
Authors: Touhami Sara , Gatti Filippo , Lopez-Caballero Fernando , Cottereau Régis , de Abreu Corrêa Lúcio , Aubry Ludovic , Clouteau Didier
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we present SEM3D: a 3D high-fidelity numerical earthquake simulator that is tailored to predict the seismic wave field of complex earthquake scenarios from the fault to the epicenter site. SEM3D solves the wave-propagation problem by means of the spectral element method (SEM). The presented demonstrative test case was a blind MW6.0 earthquake scenario at the European experimental site located in the sedimentary basin of Argostoli on the island of Kefalonia (Western Greece). A well-constrained geological model, obtained via geophysical inversion studies, and seismological model, given the large database of seismic traces recorded by the newly installed ARGONET network, of the site were considered. The domain of interest covered a region of 44 km × 44 km × 63 km, with the smallest grid size of 130 m × 130 m × 35 m. This allowed us to simulate the ground shaking in its entirety, from the seismic source to the epicenter site within a 0–10 Hz frequency band. Owing to the pseudo-spectral nature of the numerical method and given the high polynomial order (i.e., degree nine), the model featured 1.35·1010 DOFs (degrees of freedom). The variability of the synthetic wave field generated within the basin is assessed herein, exploring different random realizations of the mean velocity structure and heterogeneous rupture path.
An Early-Warning System to Validate the Soil Profile during TBM Tunnelling
Authors: Abate Glenda , Corsico Sebastiano , Grasso Salvatore , Massimino Maria Rossella
Published: March 2022

Identification of soil condition at the working face of a tunnel boring machine (TBM) is a key factor for the efficiency and safety of TBM tunneling. The paper presents the first application of the Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratio (HVSR) method on microtremors induced by a TBM during tunnelling. The innovative application is based on the development of an easy-to-use and economical early-warning system, which aims to confirm, or otherwise, the soil profile established in the design phase of tunnels by comparing the soil natural frequencies obtained from the soil profile carried out during the design phase and the soil natural frequencies coming from the HVSR analysis of the microtremors induced by the TBM during tunnelling. Just one or two geophones are necessary to use the proposed procedure. It can be applied to an area up to about 20 m ahead of the TBM excavation front and constitutes a powerful early warning system. Due to the great heterogeneity of the subsoil, dual-mode TBMs are often used, frequently changing from Open-Face (OF) mode for rock formations to Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) mode for cohesive and incoherent soil. Any “additional” information on the soil, which will be dug in the next days or hours is extremely useful for subsoil with great heterogeneity. The new procedure offers a reasonable time interval in which to modify the excavation method. This, in turn, can avoid damage to the TBM and existing structures and infrastructures. It allows us also to have a valuable geotechnical database for future works on the infrastructural networks. The proposed procedure has been successfully applied during the construction of the new underground lines in Catania (Italy).
Simulating Thermal Interaction of Gas Production Wells with Relict Gas Hydrate-Bearing Permafrost
Authors: Chuvilin Evgeny , Tipenko Gennadiy , Bukhanov Boris , Istomin Vladimir , Pissarenko Dimitri
Published: March 2022

The thermal interaction of a gas production well with ice-rich permafrost that bears relict gas hydrates is simulated in Ansys Fluent using the enthalpy formulation of the Stefan problem. The model admits phase changes of pore ice and hydrate (ice melting and gas hydrate dissociation) upon permafrost thawing. The solution is derived from the energy conservation within the modeling domain by solving a quasilinear thermal conductivity equation. The calculations are determined for a well completion with three casing strings and the heat insulation of a gas lifting pipe down to a depth of 55 m. The thermal parameters of permafrost are selected according to laboratory and field measurements from the Bovanenkovo gas-condensate field in the Yamal Peninsula. The modeling results refer to the Bovanenkovo field area and include the size of the thawing zone around wells, with regard to free methane release as a result of gas hydrate dissociation in degrading permafrost. The radius of thawing around a gas well with noninsulated lifting pipes operating for 30 years may reach 10 m or more, while in the case of insulated lifting pipes, no thawing is expected. As predicted by the modeling for the Bovanenkovo field, methane emission upon the dissociation of gas hydrates caused by permafrost thawing around producing gas wells may reach 400,000–500,000 m3 over 30 years.
Implementing an Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme to Improve Adherence to a Perioperative Prophylaxis Guideline
Authors: Ahmed Nehad J. , Almalki Ziyad S. , Alfaifi Abdullah A. , Alshehri Ahmed M. , Alahmari Abdullah K. , Elazab Emad , Almansour Alaa , Haseeb Abdul , Balaha Mohamed F. , Khan Amer H.
Published: March 2022

Perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis is effective in reducing the rate of surgical site infections (SSIs); however, non-adherence to surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis protocols can lead to several negative outcomes. We performed a before-and-after intervention study with the aim of improving the process outcome, including adherence to guidelines. Another objective of this study was to investigate improvement in patient outcomes as a result of adherence to a surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis programme. The indicators of improved patient outcomes were a reduction in overall SSI rate and the decreased cost of antibiotics. SSI rate was calculated as a percentage by dividing the number of SSIs by the total number of surgeries and then multiplying the value obtained by 100%. The interventions implemented in the surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis programme included establishment of a guideline, educational sessions, and a monthly revision of prescriptions. Our findings show that implementation of the interventions resulted in reduced antibiotic consumption, a considerable decrease in the cost of prophylaxis, and a decrease in the incidence of SSIs.
Effect of a Community Gerontology Program on the Control of Metabolic Syndrome in Mexican Older Adults
Authors: Mendoza-Núñez Víctor Manuel , Pulido-Castillo Gabriela , Correa-Muñoz Elsa , Rosado-Pérez Juana
Published: March 2022

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is highly prevalent in older adults; it constitutes a risk factor for cognitive deterioration, frailty, and Alzheimer’s disease. For this reason, the WHO has pointed out the importance of the implementation of community programs for the training of healthy aging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a community gerontology program framed in active aging on the control of metabolic syndrome in older adults. Methods: An experimental study was carried out in a convenience sample of 80 older adults diagnosed with MS according to the ATPIII criteria, comprising (1) experimental group (EG), n = 40; (2) control group (CG), n = 40. During a 6-month period, the EG participated in a supervised community gerontology program, and the CG was assessed monthly. Results: A statistically significant decrease was observed in the number of components for the diagnosis of MS. In this regard, of the total of participants with a diagnosis of MS in EG, only 28% maintained the diagnosis of MS (ATPIII ≥ 3 criteria), in contrast to 83% of the CG participants (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that health self-care training within the framework of active aging is effective for the control of MS in older adults.
Multimodal Narratives for the Presentation of Silk Heritage in the Museum
Authors: Hauser Hansgeorg , Beisswenger Cynthia , Partarakis Nikolaos , Zabulis Xenophon , Adami Ilia , Zidianakis Emmanouil , Patakos Andreas , Patsiouras Nikolaos , Karuzaki Effie , Foukarakis Michalis , Tsoli Aggeliki , Qammaz Ammar , Argyros Antonis , Cadi Nedjma , Baka Evangelia , Thalmann Nadia Magnenat , Olivias Brenda , Makrygiannis Dimitrios , Glushkova Alina , Manitsaris Sotirios , Nitti Vito , Panesse Lucia
Published: March 2022

In this paper, a representation based on digital assets and semantic annotations is established for Traditional Craft instances, in a way that captures their socio-historic context and preserves both their tangible and intangible Cultural Heritage dimensions. These meaningful and documented experiential presentations are delivered to the target audience through narratives that address a range of uses, including personalized storytelling, interactive Augmented Reality (AR), augmented physical artifacts, Mixed Reality (MR) exhibitions, and the Web. The provided engaging cultural experiences have the potential to have an impact on interest growth and tourism, which can support Traditional Craft communities and institutions. A secondary impact is the attraction of new apprentices through training and demonstrations that guarantee long-term preservation. The proposed approach is demonstrated in the context of textile manufacturing as practiced by the community of the Haus der Seidenkultur, a former silk factory that was turned into a museum where the traditional craft of Jacquard weaving is still practiced.
The Inclusion of Green Light in a Red and Blue Light Background Impact the Growth and Functional Quality of Vegetable and Flower Microgreen Species
Authors: Orlando Matteo , Trivellini Alice , Incrocci Luca , Ferrante Antonio , Mensuali Anna
Published: March 2022

Microgreens are edible seedlings of vegetables and flowers species which are currently considered among the five most profitable crops globally. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have shown great potential for plant growth, development, and synthesis of health-promoting phytochemicals with a more flexible and feasible spectral manipulation for microgreen production in indoor farms. However, research on LED lighting spectral manipulation specific to microgreen production, has shown high variability in how these edible seedlings behave regarding their light environmental conditions. Hence, developing species-specific LED light recipes for enhancement of growth and valuable functional compounds is fundamental to improve their production system. In this study, various irradiance levels and wavelengths of light spectrum produced by LEDs were investigated for their effect on growth, yield, and nutritional quality in four vegetables (chicory, green mizuna, china rose radish, and alfalfa) and two flowers (french marigold and celosia) of microgreens species. Microgreens were grown in a controlled environment using sole-source light with different photosynthetic photon flux density (110, 220, 340 µmol m−2 s−1) and two different spectra (RB: 65% red, 35% blue; RGB: 47% red, 19% green, 34% blue). At harvest, the lowest level of photosynthetically active photon flux (110 µmol m−2 s−1) reduced growth and decreased the phenolic contents in almost all species. The inclusion of green wavelengths under the highest intensity showed positive effects on phenolic accumulation. Total carotenoid content and antioxidant capacity were in general enhanced by the middle intensity, regardless of spectral combination. Thus, this study indicates that the inclusion of green light at an irradiance level of 340 µmol m−2 s−1 in the RB light environment promotes the growth (dry weight biomass) and the accumulation of bioactive phytochemicals in the majority of the microgreen species tested.
Monitoring Freeze-Damage in Grapefruit by Electric Bioimpedance Spectroscopy and Electric Equivalent Models
Authors: Romero Fogué David , Masot Peris Rafael , Ibáñez Civera Javier , Contat Rodrigo Laura , Laguarda-Miro Nicolas
Published: March 2022

Grapefruit is a cold-sensitive citrus fruit, and freezing can spoil the harvest when the fruit is still on the tree and even later during manufacturing and transport due to inappropriate postharvest management. This study performed a specific Electric Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) analysis and statistical data treatment to obtain an EIS and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN)-based model for early freeze-damage detection in grapefruit showing a Correct Correlation Rate of 100%. Additionally, Cryo-Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy observations were conducted on both fresh and frozen/thawed samples, analyzing the different impedance responses in order to understand the biological changes in the tissue. Finally, a modified Hayden electric equivalent model was parameterized to simulate the impedance response electrically and link the electric behavior of biological tissue to the change in its properties due to freezing. The developed technique is introduced as an alternative to the traditional ones, as it is fast, economic, and easy to carry out.
The Use of Opuntia ficus-indica Mucilage and Aloe arborescens as Edible Coatings to Improve the Physical, Chemical, and Microbiological Properties of ‘Hayward’ Kiwifruit Slices
Authors: Sortino Giuseppe , Inglese Paolo , Farina Vittorio , Passafiume Roberta , Allegra Alessio
Published: March 2022

Edible coatings (EC) with mucilage of Opuntia ficus-indica or Aloe arborescens are promising to extend the shelf life of fresh-cut fruit products by reducing weight loss and microbial spoilage. In this work, fresh-cut kiwifruits (cv. Hayward) were coated in solutions with mucilage extracted from Opuntia ficus-indica (MC) and A. arborescens (AL). We used three alternative treatments with AL or MC, MC+AL, and with distilled water as control, and stored in passive atmosphere at 5 °C for 3, 5, 7, and 9 d, respectively. For all treatments at each storage period, firmness, weight loss, color, visual quality score, respiration rate, pectin content, and microbiological characteristics were observed. The treatments with mucilage and A. arborescens applied on fresh-cut kiwi slices showed different significant effects until 9 days of storage, in terms of firmness and total pectin. Microbial spoilage analysis revealed the beneficial effects of this strategy after 3 d, particularly in terms of bacteria and yeast. A. arborescens provided a reduction of microbial activity, probably due to the higher quantity of aloin if related to Aloe species. Furthermore, the treatment with MC and AL increased the total pectin content, showing positive effects in terms weight loss and firmness. The results showed that the MC+AL treatment improved the visual score of fresh-cut kiwi fruit until 7 d of storage.
Associations between Coronavirus Crisis Perception, Perceived Economic Risk of Coronavirus, General Self-Efficacy, and Coronavirus Anxiety at the Start of the Pandemic: Differences by Gender and Race
Authors: Garcia Samantha , Hopfer Suellen , Botes Elouise , Greiff Samuel
Published: March 2022

The coronavirus pandemic has escalated rates of anxiety in the general U.S. population. Understanding how factors associated with coronavirus anxiety at the start of the pandemic differed among populations hardest impacted by coronavirus anxiety is key to effectively remediating negatively associated health outcomes and to better understand how to address concerns of the public at the start of a global pandemic. This study was a secondary analysis of data from a cross-sectional online survey of 1165 Prolific users between 13 and 15 March 2020. Data were collected from a stratified sample of U.S. adults aged 20 or older and currently living in the United States. The sample was stratified for age, gender, and race. Coronavirus anxiety was assessed as the dependent variable, alongside three independent variables: coronavirus crisis perception, perceived economic risk of coronavirus, and general self-efficacy. Multiple linear regression assessed the associations between the independent variables and coronavirus anxiety. Interactions between independent variables and two sociodemographic variables (i.e., gender, race) were also explored. The models were adjusted for age, gender, race, education, employment, and income. The average age of participants was 45.6 ± 15.7. The majority (76%) identified as White, approximately half identified as female and reported obtaining a bachelor’s degree or higher. Coronavirus crisis perception and perceived economic risk of coronavirus were positively associated with coronavirus anxiety (β = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.41, 1.00; β = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.09, 1.00, respectively). General self-efficacy was negatively associated with coronavirus anxiety (β = −0.15, 95% CI = −1.00, −0.11). Gender and race both moderated the association between coronavirus crisis perception and anxiety. Race moderated the association between perceived economic risk and coronavirus crisis perception. These results provide a foundation to further explore cognitive factors in subgroups disproportionately affected by anxiety during the pandemic.
An Intelligent System for Proper Management and Disposal of Unused and Expired Medications
Authors: Banjar Haneen , Alrowithi Rahaf , Alhadrami Sara , Magrabi Esraa , Munshi Reema , Alrige Mayda
Published: March 2022

For years, several countries have been concerned about how to dispose of unused pharmaceuticals that can endanger human health and the environment. Moreover, some people are in desperate need of medical attention and medications, but they lack the financial resources to obtain them. In Saudi Arabia, there are no take-back medicine programs, and there is no published research on how medications properly are disposed. The aim of this research is to use the power of artificial intelligence to assist in the proper management and disposal of expired and unused medications and to develop a prototype device for collecting medication by automatically classifying medications for proper disposal and donation. In this research, artificial intelligence technologies such as web-based expert systems, image recognition and classification algorithms, chatbots, and the internet of things are used to assist in a take-back medications program. In conclusion, the prototype design of a web-based expert system and the device reduced improper disposal risks by providing significant advice on the safe disposal of unwanted pharmaceuticals. By using an organized method of collecting expired medications, the benefits were made possible.
Older Adults’ Engagement in Residential Care: Pitfalls, Potentials, and the Role of ICTs
Authors: Blok Marije , Groot Barbara , Huijg Johanna M. , de Boer Alice H.
Published: March 2022

Over the previous years, the residential care sector has gone through a transition from a rather paternalistic approach towards a more democratic way of caregiving. Nevertheless, many care organizations still find it challenging to engage their residents in the process of care. In this study, we investigated the challenges regarding the engagement of older adults in residential care. As recent studies indicated the increasing opportunities of ICTs, we paid particular attention to this in the process of engagement. We followed a participatory action research approach among caregivers and older adults at a somatic care department in a care residence in the Netherlands. Methods used included 15 participants in two homogeneous group sessions, reflections on action in practice, and one mixed focus group. Our findings show that both caregivers and older adults acknowledge the importance of engagement in daily care. However, their different perspectives on how this should take place, made the actual engagement of older adults a challenge. We determined three dilemmas complicating this engagement in care, and labeled these (1) autonomy versus dependence; (2) personal experiences versus privacy; and (3) happiness versus honesty. We found different ways of how caregivers and older adults deal with these dilemma’s in practice and defined these in terms of pitfalls and potentials. ICTs were shown to reinforce both the pitfalls and potentials. Paying attention to these challenges in residential care, including how caregivers and older adults deal with these challenges, will encourage a mutual understanding and actual engagement in decisions on daily care. Further research is recommended on the role of organizations’ management, older adults’ relatives, or older adults with cognitive impairments.
Effectiveness of Interventions to Promote Medication Adherence in Schizophrenic Populations in Thailand: A Systematic Review
Authors: Inwanna Suchanart , Duangchan Cherdsak , Matthews Alicia K.
Published: March 2022

Medication non-adherence is a leading cause of poor treatment outcomes among Thai patients with psychiatric disorders and creates challenges for psychiatric nurses. This systematic review synthesized research on intervention effectiveness for antipsychotic medication adherence in Thai schizophrenic populations. Following PRISMA guidelines, searches were completed in seven databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, ThaiJO, and Google Scholar. No restriction dates were used. Screening and extraction of data were performed systematically. Eligible studies consisted of nine quasi-experimental and two randomized control trial studies. The Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument (JBI-MAStARI) was used to assess the studies’ methodological quality. This review revealed that individual counseling combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI) techniques improved and maintained medication adherence behavior over time. Post-testing after intervention completion and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups showed that treatment group participants were more adherent than control group participants (p < 0.01). These findings suggest that incorporating CBT and MI into clinical practice can enhance medication adherence behavior. Booster session efficacy for reinforcing and sustaining adherence should be investigated. Greater rigor is warranted in future intervention studies based on a quality appraisal of previous studies.
Association of the Unstimulated Whole Salivary Cytokine IL-1β Levels with Initial, Moderate and Severe Periodontitis. A Case Control Study
Authors: Majeed Muhammad M. , Ahmed Imtiaz , Roome Talat , Alali Yasser , Al-Aali Khulud A. , Ahmed Naseer , Saleem Zohra , Alhumaidan Abdulkareem A. , Farooqui Waqas A. , Ahmed Saeeda , Vohra Fahim , Abduljabbar Tariq
Published: March 2022

Periodontitis (P) is a highly prevalent inflammatory disease of the oral cavity. The objective of the study was to evaluate the stages of pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β in initial, moderate and severe periodontitis. One hundred and twenty two patients were included in the study. Periodontitis subjects had at least 20 natural teeth and ≥8 sites with pocket depths of >4 mm and clinical attachment loss (CAL). A questionnaire was used with respect to the socio demographic parameters which included age, gender, ethnicity, education, marital, residence and occupation. To categorize the severity of the disease, teeth were assessed for, Plaque index (PI), Bleeding on probing (BOP), CAL, missing tooth, tooth mobility and bone loss. Unstimulated whole saliva (UWS) was collected and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) cytokine levels were analyzed using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay with microplate reader at 450 nm. Clinical parameters and salivary cytokine concentrations were assessed using one-way analysis of variance, whereas a correlation of cases with gender and severity of periodontitis was evaluated using chi-square test. Fifty-nine patients were healthy controls and 63 were periodontitis patients Thirty two percent (n = 20) had initial periodontitis, 40% (n = 25) suffered from moderate and 29% (n = 18) had severe periodontitis. Periodontitis subgroups were significantly different with regards to age and gender (p < 0.001). The mean PPD and CAL among the periodontitis patients (PPD, 3.52 ± 1.25 mm; CAL, 4.04 ± 1.64 mm) were significantly compromised (p < 0.05) compared to healthy controls (PPD, 1.52 ± 0.73 mm; CAL, 0.08 ± 0.28 mm). Increased levels of IL-1β were associated with high CAL and PPD findings. UWS IL-1β levels were higher in periodontitis patients compared to healthy individuals. In addition, cases of severe periodontitis showed significantly higher UWS IL-1β levels compared to initial and moderate periodontitis patients. Comparative levels of salivary IL-1β can be potentially used as a diagnostic tool for periodontitis identification and disease progression along with clinical parameters.