bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pattern Reconstruction of 3-D Modular Antennas by Means of a Non-Redundant Near-Field Spherical Scan
Authors: D’Agostino Francesco , Ferrara Flaminio , Gennarelli Claudio , Guerriero Rocco , Riccio Giovanni
Published: July 2022

A very flexible source model is proposed here to reduce the volumetric redundancy when considering the pattern reconstruction of three-dimensional modular antennas by means of a near-field spherical scan using a non-redundant sampling representation. Since this last facet is based on the appropriate choice of antenna model for the evaluation of the optimal parameters to be used, the proposed geometry guaranteed the minimum number of needed samples and then a significant time saved for data acquisition on the near-field spherical grid. Then, an optimal interpolation algorithm used these non-redundant samples for an accurate evaluation of the near-field data that were usable in the classical near-field to far-field transformation. The reliability and accuracy of the reconstruction process were proven by means of numerical tests. These last showed a remarkable reduction (about 53%) in needed near-field samples as compared to those required by the classical near-field to far-field transformation and this was achieved without any loss in accuracy.
Improving FPGA Based Impedance Spectroscopy Measurement Equipment by Means of HLS Described Neural Networks to Apply Edge AI
Authors: Fe Jorge , Gadea-Gironés Rafael , Monzo Jose M. , Tebar-Ruiz Ángel , Colom-Palero Ricardo
Published: July 2022

The artificial intelligence (AI) application in instruments such as impedance spectroscopy highlights the difficulty to choose an electronic technology that correctly solves the basic performance problems, adaptation to the context, flexibility, precision, autonomy, and speed of design. Present work demonstrates that FPGAs, in conjunction with an optimized high-level synthesis (HLS), allow us to have an efficient connection between the signals sensed by the instrument and the artificial neural network-based AI computing block that will analyze them. State-of-the-art comparisons and experimental results also demonstrate that our designed and developed architectures offer the best compromise between performance, efficiency, and system costs in terms of artificial neural networks implementation. In the present work, computational efficiency above 21 Mps/DSP and power efficiency below 1.24 mW/Mps are achieved. It is important to remark that these results are more relevant because the system can be implemented on a low-cost FPGA.
Modular Level Power Electronics (MLPE) Based Distributed PV System for Partial Shaded Conditions
Authors: Sarwar Sajid , Javed Muhammad Yaqoob , Jaffery Mujtaba Hussain , Ashraf Muhammad Saqib , Naveed Muhammad Talha , Hafeez Muhammad Annas
Published: July 2022

Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy is a very promising renewable energy technology, as solar PV systems are less efficient because of climate conditions, temperature, and irradiance change. So, to resolve this problem, two PV topologies are used, i.e., centralized and distributed PV systems. The centralized technique is quicker than the distributed technique in terms of convergence speed and a faster power tracking approach. In the event of uniform irradiance, the centralized system also has the benefit of supplying superior energy, but in PS scenarios, a huge amount of energy is lost. However, the distributed approach requires current and voltage measurements at each panel, resulting in a massive data set. Nevertheless, in the event of shading circumstances, the distributed technique is highly effective because a modular level power electronics (MLPE) converter is used. While in a centralized PV system, there is only a single DC-DC converter for the whole PV system. In this research work, a DFO-based DC-DC converter is designed for modular level, with an ability to perform a rapid shutdown of the module under fire hazard conditions, troubleshooting, and monitoring of a module in a very efficient way. The robustness of the proposed MPPT DFO algorithm is tested with different techniques such as Cuckoo Search (CS), Fruit Fly Optimization (FFO), Particle swarm optimization (PSO), Incremental conductance (InC), and Perturb and observe(P&O) techniques. The proposed technique shows better results in terms of MPPT efficiency, dynamic responsiveness, and harmonics. Furthermore, the result of MLPE and the centralized system is verified by using the Helioscope with different inverter companies like SMA, Tigo, Enphase, Solar edge, and Huawei. The results prove that MLPE is a better option in the case of shading region for attaining the maximum power point.
Energy-Efficient Electro-Hydraulic Power Source Driven by Variable-Speed Motor
Authors: Yan Zheng , Ge Lei , Quan Long
Published: July 2022

Hydraulic systems are widely used in industry due to their small size-to-power ratios and their ability to produce very large linear force and torque. In traditional hydraulic systems, a variable pump driven by an electric motor is often used as power source. In these systems, the electro-hydraulic power source always operates at its rated speed, causing lots of noise and low energy consumption, especially in no-load and light-load conditions. These problems can be solved by changing the speed of the electric motor according to the load state of the electro-hydraulic power source. In order to improve the energy efficiency of the electro-hydraulic power source and realize pressure and flow control on the basis of low cost, this paper presents the power-source structure of a variable-displacement pressure-compensated pump driven by a variable-speed electric motor; this controls the flow by adjusting the electric motor speed and controls the pressure with the variable-displacement pressure-compensated pump. However, for the variable-speed system, the starting of the electric motor with a load is relatively slow; this makes it difficult to meet the demand of flow control, and will also have a great impact on the power grid. To address these problems, a hydraulic accumulator is introduced to the inlet port of the hydraulic pump to assist in starting the pump. This method can realize the combined control of pressure, flow and power, and has high energy efficiency. This research uses experiments to verify the feasibility of the scheme, and the results show that the starting periods of the power source can be shortened from 2.8 s to 0.7 s when the load pressure is about 18 MPa. Furthermore, regarding maintaining pressure without flow outputs, the energy consumption of the designed power source can be reduced by almost 30% compared with a pure variable-displacement power source.
Hybrid Model of Rolling-Element Bearing Vibration Signal
Authors: Jablonski Adam
Published: July 2022

The generation of synthetic vibration signals enables the testing of novel machine diagnostic methods without the costly introduction of real failures. One of major goals of vibration-based condition monitoring is the early detection of bearing faults. This paper presents a novel modeling technique based on the combination of the known mechanical properties of a modeled object (phenomenological part) and observation of a real object (behavioral part). The model uses the real pulse response of bearing housing, along with the external instantaneous machine speed profile. The presented method is object-oriented, so it is applicable to a large group of machinery.
Research on the Influence of Power-Supply Mode and Copper-Shielding Layer on the Loss of Cryogenic Permanent Magnet Motor for LNG Pump
Authors: Liu Shuqi , Ge Baojun , Tao Dajun , Wang Yue , Hou Peng , Wang Yong
Published: July 2022

In order to study the method for reducing the losses in cryogenic permanent magnet motors for LNG pumps, the design of a submersible cryogenic permanent magnet brushless DC motor is presented in this paper. First, the materials used in the motor were tested at room temperature and at a low temperature, and the BH curve and BP curve of the silicon-steel sheet were obtained. Next, DC power supply and PWM power supply were used to analyze the influence of the power-supply mode on the motor loss. Finally, based on the calculation results of the motor loss, the ability of the copper-shielding layer to reduce the motor loss was explored. In the calculation process, the influence of the temperature was considered, and the motor losses at different temperatures were compared and analyzed, which provided a reference for reducing the loss of the cryogenic permanent magnet motor.
Transient Stability Analysis of a Multi-Machine Power System Integrated with Renewables
Authors: Agarala Ajaysekhar , Bhat Sunil S. , Mitra Arghya , Zychma Daria , Sowa Pawel
Published: July 2022

The impact on the stability of power systems is rising as the penetration level of renewable energy with sporadic natures rises rapidly on the grid. However, the impact of different types of renewable energy sources (wind, solar) and their combination on system stability varies even with the same penetration level. This paper concentrates mainly on the stability analysis of multi-machine systems connected to various types of renewable energy sources. The study presents a simple and novel control technique named automatic reactive power support (ARS) for both single and combinations of renewable sources by injecting the available reactive power into the system during fault through converters to enhance system stability. The permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) and doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) are both considered as wind generators in this paper for comparison. In addition, transient stability enhancement is carried out by improving critical clearing time of a three-phase fault in the power system. With the creation of a 3-phase fault at various buses, stability analysis is carried out on the 9-bus WSCC test bus system and also on the 68-bus IEEE test system. Comparative analysis of six test case conditions is provided and the considered cases are without renewable source, with DFIG as a wind generator, PMSG as a wind generator, solar PV farm, wind farm with DFIG and solar PV in combination and the combination of wind farm with PMSG and solar PV. Moreover, the improvement in critical clearing time of the system is compared using conventional and proposed controls with all the aforementioned renewable sources. Comparative results show that the proposed control technique improves system stability and also that the combination of renewable energy sources ought to enhance the critical clearing time of system.
Otovestibular Symptoms of COVID-19 and Its Vaccines/Treatments
Authors: Cherchi Marcello
Published: July 2022

The rapidly developing literature regarding COVID-19 and its treatments has documented an impressive breadth of pathology across multiple organ systems. In this entry, researchers highlight the audiologic and vestibular manifestations that have been reported in association with COVID-19, its vaccines, and some of its treatments.
The Effects of Fire Disturbance on Litter Decomposition and C:N:P Stoichiometry in a Larix gmelinii Forest Ecosystem of Boreal China
Authors: Li Fei , Shi Zhe , Zhao Bingqing , Bono Gong Jinhua , Sun Long , Hu Tongxin
Published: July 2022

Fire disturbance can affect the function of the boreal forest ecosystem through litter decomposition and nutrient element return. In this study, we selected the Larix gmelinii forest, a typical forest ecosystem in boreal China, to explore the effect of different years (3 years, 9 years, 28 years) after high burn severity fire disturbance on the decomposition rate (k) of leaf litter and the Carbon:Nitrogen:Phosphorus (C:N:P) stoichiometry characteristics. Our results indicated that compared with the unburned control stands, the k increased by 91–109% within 9 years after fire disturbance, but 28 years after fire disturbance the decomposition rate of the upper litter decreased by 45% compared with the unburned control stands. After fire disturbance, litter decomposition in boreal forests can be promoted in the short term (e.g., 9 years after a fire) and inhibited in the long term (e.g., 28 years after a fire). Changes in litter nutrient elements caused by the effect of fire disturbance on litter decomposition and on the C, N, and C:N of litter were the main litter stoichiometry factors for litter decomposition 28 years after fire disturbance. The findings of this research characterize the long-term dynamic change of litter decomposition in the boreal forest ecosystem, providing data and theoretical support for further exploring the relationship between fire and litter decomposition.
‘We’re Farmers Not Foresters’: Farmers’ Decision-Making and Behaviours towards Managing Trees for Pests and Diseases
Authors: Ambrose-Oji Bianca , Goodenough Alice , Urquhart Julie , Hall Clare , Karlsdóttir Berglind
Published: July 2022

Policy makers are challenged to find ways of influencing and supporting land manager behaviours and actions to deal with the impacts of increasing pressure from tree pests and diseases. This paper investigates attitudes and behaviours of farmers towards managing trees on farmland for pests and diseases. Data collection with farmers included deliberative workshops and semi-structured interviews. Data were thematically analyzed using the COM-B (Capacity/Opportunity/Motivation-Behaviour) model to understand the drivers of farmer behaviour for tree health. Results suggested farmers had some knowledge, experience and skills managing trees, but they did not recognize this capacity. Social norms and networks impacted the context of opportunity to act for tree health, along with access to trusted advice and labour, and the costs associated with management action. Motivational factors such as self-efficacy, perceived benefits of acting, personal interest and sense of agency were impacted by farmers’ self-identity as food producers. The COM-B model also provides a framework for identifying intervention design through a Behaviour Change Wheel. This suggests that enhancing self-efficacy supported by the right kind of advice and guidance, framed and communicated in farmers’ terms and brokered by appropriate knowledge intermediaries, seems critical to building action amongst different farmer types and attitudinal groups.
The Effect of Thinning Management on the Carbon Density of the Tree Layers in Larch–Birch Mixed Natural Secondary Forests of the Greater Khingan Range, Northeastern China
Authors: Meng Yongbin , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Chunxu , Wang Zichun , Li Yaoxiang
Published: July 2022

Natural secondary forests not only contribute to the total balance of terrestrial carbon, but they also play a major role in the future mitigation of climate change. In China, secondary forests have low productivity and carbon sequestration, which seriously restricts the sustainable development of the forest. Thinning is a core measure of scientific management of forest ecosystems and is a primary natural forest management technique. The carbon density of the tree layer is most affected by thinning. Taking larch–birch mixed natural secondary forests in the Greater Khingan Range, Northeast China, as the research object, we analyzed the changes in tree layer carbon density of secondary forests under different thinning intensities. The results showed that in five thinned groups, when intensity was 49.6%, the diameter at breast height (DBH) and individual tree biomass significantly increased. Thinning had no significant effect on the carbon content of the tree stem, branches and bark, but had significant effects on the carbon content of leaves. Our result showed that the carbon content of birch leaves increased and that of larch decreased. As the thinning intensity increases, the proportion of broad-leaved tree species (birch) increased, yet larch decreased. In the short term, thinning will reduce the total biomass and carbon density of tree layers. However, when the thinning intensity was 49.6%, the carbon accumulation was higher than that of the blank control group (CK group) after thinning for 12 years. This shows that after a long period of time, the carbon density of tree layers will exceed that of the CK group. Reasonable thinning intensity management (49.6% thinning intensity) of natural secondary forests can make trees grow better, and the proportion of broad-leaved trees increases significantly. It can also increase the carbon sequestration rate and lead to more accumulation of biomass and carbon density. This can not only promote the growth of secondary forests, but also shows great potential for creating carbon sinks and coping with climate change.
Which Is the Best Substrate to Regenerate? A Comparative Pot Experiment for Tree Seedling Growth on Decayed Wood and in Soil
Authors: Fukasawa Yu , Kitabatake Hiroyuki
Published: July 2022

Dead wood is an important microsite for seedling regeneration in forest ecosystems. Although recent studies have found important associations between fungal wood decay type (white rot and brown rot) and both density and species composition of regenerating seedlings, its abiotic and biotic mechanisms are unknown. In the present study, pot experiments were conducted with the seedlings of two ectomycorrhizal tree species (Abies veitchii and Betula ermanii) and two arbuscular mycorrhizal tree species (Chamaecyparis obtusa and Cryptomeria japonica) to evaluate their growth using three substrates: brown rot wood, white rot wood, and soil. Results showed that the shoot growth of B. ermanii grown in white rot wood was greater than in other substrates, but this effect disappeared in sterilized substrates, suggesting some biotic positive effects occur in white rot wood. The seedling weights of Cr. japonica and Ch. obtusa were found to be greater in soil than in wood, and this may be partly attributable to the high mycorrhizal rate of their roots in soil. Colonization of arbuscular and ectomycorrhizal fungi was restricted to the seedlings in unsterilized soil. These results demonstrate the importance of the biological mechanisms affecting seedlings’ preferences for a variety of regeneration microsites and illustrate the need for future experiments to include larger sets of seedling species.
A Comparative Study of Yeasts for Rosa roxburghii Wine Fermentation
Authors: Yu Zhi-Hai , Huang Gui-Dan , Huang Xiao-Yan , Pu Jiang-Hua , Wu Jia-Sheng , Yue Li-Rong , Hardie William James , Liu Xiao-Zhu , Huang Ming-Zheng
Published: July 2022

Wine produced by fermentation of Chestnut rose (Rosa roxburghii) hips, known as cili (Chinese-Mandarin), in Guizhou province, and other places in China is becoming popular but there is limited knowledge of suitable yeast strains for its production. In this study, we first investigated the oenological properties of six commercial S. cerevisiae yeast strains (X16, F33, SH12, GV107, S102, RMS2), one commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. bayanus (S103), one commercial, non-Saccharomyces yeast strain, Torulaspora delbrueckii Prelude, and one indigenous S. cerevisiae strain, CZ, for cili wine fermentation. We measured the key traits of each of the yeast strains, viz., sulfite resistance, flocculation, hydrogen sulfide production capacity, fermentation rate, and yeast growth curves. Subsequently, we measured the resultant wine characteristics, viz., pH, alcohol content, residual sugar, titratable acidity, volatile acidity, ascorbic acid content and headspace volatile compounds. The overall suitability of each yeast type was evaluated using a multi-factor, unweighted, scorecard. On that basis, RMS2 was the most suitable, and closely followed by CZ and X16. This study is the first comparative evaluation of yeasts for cili wine production and provides a preliminary guide for their selection.
Conversion of Enantiomers during the Separation of Acetoin from Fermentation Broth
Authors: Zhang Jiaxiang , Fu Zhihao , Zhao Xiangying , Yao Mingjing , Li Yuchen , Liu Liping , Liu Jianjun , Tian Yanjun
Published: July 2022

Acetoin (AC) is an important platform compound with two enantiomers (R)-AC and (S)-AC. Due to its unique spatial structure, optically pure AC has particularly high application in asymmetric synthesis. Highly optically pure AC could be produced from glucose using biofermentation technology. In this paper, we have observed that the recovered AC product from the fermentation broth containing (R)-AC was a racemic mixture. The changes of the enantiomeric excess (e.e.) of (R)-AC enantiomers in the feed solution during the recovery process were then investigated, confirming that the racemization occurs during solvent distillation. Further studies showed that high temperature is the main factor affecting the conversion of the two enantiomers, while low temperature significantly prevents this conversion reaction. Therefore, we optimized the solvent recovery process and used vacuum distillation to reduce the distillation process temperature, which effectively prevented the racemization: obtains AC products with more than 98% purity and successfully maintained the proportion of (R)-AC above 96%. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the factors affecting the enantiomeric purity in the downstream extraction process of AC production by fermentation.
Experimental Study of Collateral Patency following Overlapped Multilayer Flow Modulators Deployment
Authors: Tupin Simon , Takase Kei , Ohta Makoto
Published: July 2022

Decades after its introduction, endovascular aneurysm repair remains a challenging procedure with risks of collateral patency failure. Here, we investigate the ability of a porous stent, the Multilayer Flow Modulator (MFM), to maintain renal perfusion after a single or overlapping case. Silicone models representing an ideal infrarenal AAA geometry were used to analyze and compare three cases (control, single MFM and two overlapped MFMs). Micro-computed tomography was used to image the deployed MFM devices geometry and evaluate pore size and density along with porosity in both two (planimetric) and three dimensions (gravimetric). Laser particle image velocimetry (PIV) experiments were performed to image velocity and vorticity fields at the aorta-renal bifurcation. Flow experiments revealed renal arteries perfusion preservation in both single and overlapped cases. Microstructure analysis revealed an uneven distribution of wires in the MFM devices leading to local change in planimetric porosity and pore size. Overlap of a second MFM device led to a significant decrease in those 2D metrics but did not affect the gravimetric porosity and the branch perfusion. This first microstructure evaluation of MFM device combined with flow experiments revealed the ability of the device to preserve collateral flow thanks to a highly porous microstructure.
On Sliding Mode Control for Singular Fractional-Order Systems with Matched External Disturbances
Authors: Song Shubin , Meng Bo , Wang Zhen
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we investigate the problem of sliding mode control for singular fractional-order systems that have matched uncertainties. We design an innovative integral sliding mode function and controller based on the normalizable condition. A strict linear matrix inequality-based sufficient condition is obtained for the system’s stability. The normalizable condition is eliminated by updating and developing the control method, and a sufficient and necessary condition is developed for the admissibility of the system. Lastly, verification of our method’s effectiveness is numerically conducted in two instances.
Certain New Subclass of Multivalent Q-Starlike Functions Associated with Q-Symmetric Calculus
Authors: Khan Mohammad Faisal , Goswami Anjali , Khan Shahid
Published: July 2022

In our present investigation, we extend the idea of q-symmetric derivative operators to multivalent functions and then define a new subclass of multivalent q-starlike functions. For this newly defined function class, we discuss some useful properties of multivalent functions, such as the Hankel determinant, symmetric Toeplitz matrices, the Fekete–Szego problem, and upper bounds of the functional ap+1−μap+12 and investigate some new lemmas for our main results. In addition, we consider the q-Bernardi integral operator along with q-symmetric calculus and discuss some applications of our main results.
Approximate Solution of Fractional Differential Equation by Quadratic Splines
Authors: Duan Jun-Sheng , Li Ming , Wang Yan , An Yu-Lian
Published: July 2022

In this article, we consider approximate solutions by quadratic splines for a fractional differential equation with two Caputo fractional derivatives, the orders of which satisfy 1<α<2 and 0<β<1. Numerical computing schemes of the two fractional derivatives based on quadratic spline interpolation function are derived. Then, the recursion scheme for numerical solutions and the quadratic spline approximate solution are generated. Two numerical examples are used to check the proposed method. Additionally, comparisons with the L1–L2 numerical solutions are conducted. For the considered fractional differential equation with the leading order α, the involved undetermined parameters in the quadratic spline interpolation function can be exactly resolved.
Dynamic Analysis and Audio Encryption Application in IoT of a Multi-Scroll Fractional-Order Memristive Hopfield Neural Network
Authors: Yu Fei , Yu Qiulin , Chen Huifeng , Kong Xinxin , Mokbel Abdulmajeed Abdullah Mohammed , Cai Shuo , Du Sichun
Published: July 2022

Fractional-order chaotic systems are widely used in the field of encryption because of its initial value sensitivity and historical memory. In this paper, the fractional-order definition of Caputo is introduced based on a nonideal flux-controlled memristive Hopfield neural network model, when changing the parameters of the fractional-order memristive Hopfield neural network (FMHNN) can generate a different amount of multi-scroll attractors. Some dynamical behaviors are investigated by numerical simulation, especially analyzed coexistence and bifurcation under different orders and different coupling strengths. The results show that the chaotic system of FMHNN has abundant dynamic behaviors. In addition, a chaotic audio encryption scheme under a Message Queueing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol is proposed and implemented by Raspberry Pi; the audio encryption system based on FMHNN has a broad future in intelligent home and other IoT applications.
Identifying Partial Topological Structures of Stochastic Multi-Group Models with Multiple Dispersals via Graph-Theoretic Method
Authors: Zhang Chunmei , Xia Dan , Chen Huiling , Yang Hui , Li Ran , Gunasekaran Nallappan
Published: July 2022

In this paper, the partial topology identification of stochastic multi-group models with multiple dispersals is investigated. Based on adaptive pinning control and a graph-theoretic method, some sufficient criteria about partial topology identification of stochastic multi-group models with multiple dispersals are obtained. That is to say, the unknown partial topological structures can be identified successfully. In the end, numerical examples are provided to verify the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Therapeutic Potential of Mitotic Kinases’ Inhibitors in Cancers of the Gastrointestinal System
Authors: Javed Aadil , Malagraba Gianluca , Yarmohammadi Mahdieh , Perelló-Reus Catalina M. , Barceló Carles , Rubio-Tomás Teresa
Published: July 2022

Mitosis entails mechanistic changes required for maintaining the genomic integrity in all dividing cells. The process is intricate and temporally and spatially regulated by the ordered series of activation and de-activation of protein kinases. The mitotic kinases ensure the stepwise progression of entry into mitosis after the G2 phase of the cell cycle, followed by prophase, pro-metaphase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase, and subsequently cytokinesis and birth of two daughter cells with equal segregation and distribution of the genome. The major mitotic kinases include cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1), Aurora A and B Kinases, and Polo-Like-Kinase 1 (PLK1), among others. Overexpression of some of these kinases has been reported in many cancers as the mitotic fidelity and genome integrity are interlinked and dependent on these regulators, the native irregularities in these factors can be targeted as therapeutic strategies for various cancers. Here, we report and summarize the recent updates on the literature describing the various mitotic inhibitors targeting kinases, which can be used as potential therapeutic interventions for gastrointestinal cancers including gastric cancer, liver cancer, pancreatic cancer and colorectal cancer.
Care and Safety of Schoolchildren with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Parental Perceptions of the School Nurse Role
Authors: Drakopoulou Marianna , Begni Panagiota , Mantoudi Alexandra , Mantzorou Marianna , Gerogianni Georgia , Adamakidou Theodoula , Alikari Victoria , Kalemikerakis Ioannis , Kavga Anna , Plakas Sotirios , Fasoi Georgia , Apostolara Paraskevi
Published: July 2022

Schoolchildren with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) need supervision in the management of their disorder by the school nurse, securing proper care and safety in the school environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the parents’ perceptions regarding the care and safety of their children with T1DM at school. In this cross-sectional study, 356 parents of children with T1DM attending primary and secondary school (convenience sample) completed the “Parents’ Opinions about School-based Care for Children with Diabetes” and the “Safety of children with T1DM at school”. The majority (58.8%) noted that their children received some care from a school nurse, less than half (44.6%) declared feeling very safe concerning diabetes care, and 42.5% reported high levels of diabetes management satisfaction. Younger age of the child (p < 0.001), school nurses’ advanced diabetic care skills (p < 0.001), existence of school nurse’s office (p < 0.05) and higher educational level of the father were positively correlated with higher parental feelings of safety and satisfaction. The presence of a school nurse was associated with higher academic performance (p < 0.001), significantly fewer absences due to the disorder (p < 0.001) and better diabetes management (p < 0.043). The daily presence of a school nurse in school decreases absenteeism, greatly improves school performance and enhances diabetic management of schoolchildren with T1DM.
Introducing New Paths towards Public Primary Healthcare Services in Greece: Efforts for Scaling-Up Mental Healthcare Services Addressed to Older Adults
Authors: Pinaka Ourania , Gioulekas Fotios , Routa Evlampia , Delliou Aikaterini , Stamatiadis Evangelos , Dratsiou Ioanna , Romanopoulou Evangelia , Billinis Charalambos
Published: July 2022

The exponential growth in the aging population challenges the Primary Care Providers (PCPs) who provide health care services to older adults who are considered highly vulnerable and are in need of specialized healthcare services. The development of new policies and the adoption of appropriate health strategies by PCPs may improve the early detection and prevention of mental disorders in older adults. This reduces both queuing and costs in outpatient clinics while preventing stigma for patients and families. To this end, specialized training for PCPs at the Local Primary Health Care Unit (LPHCU) was provided in order to conduct efficient assessments of older adults (65 and above years old, without previously diagnosed depression or dementia, and willing to participate). The assessment is based on the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Older adults identified with MMSE <20 and GDS >5 were referred to the psychiatric outpatient clinic. The aim of this study is to discuss evidence-informed policymaking in Greece with a focus on advancing mental health practices and scaling up quality primary healthcare services for older adults.
Functional Reaction Times of a Simulated Blocking Test among Para Taekwondo Athletes
Authors: O’Sullivan David Michael , Jeong Hee Seong , Won Hyung Jin
Published: July 2022

Para taekwondo is a combat sport martial art that requires fast reaction times for successful defense during fighting. The current classification system is based on the function and the effective length of the upper limbs, which affects the athlete’s ability to block. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the differences between the different classes in the athlete’s ability to block and move around the ring. A total of 87 Para taekwondo (K42, K43, and K44) athletes’ data were analyzed. Each participant engaged in the blocking reaction time test in a fighting stance with the left leg in front, the right leg in front, and the legs parallel in random order. A foot-stepping reaction test was performed to anlyze how the athletes moved in various directions. The results indicated no significant differences between the classes for the lower body foot stepping reaction times and the upper body blocking performance times. The stimulated blocking time of the Para taekwondo athletes ranged from 0.79 to 0.97 s Furthermore, the neurological group (0.86 ± 0.09 s) was significantly slower than the amputation/dysmelia group (0.81 ± 0.07 s). We thus concluded that the neurologically impaired athletes were disadvantaged and therefore belonged in a separate class.
Contribution to the Understanding of the Colour Change in Bluish-Grey Limestones
Authors: Silva Teresa P. , de Oliveira Daniel , Veiga João P. , Lisboa Vitor , Carvalho Jorge , Barreiros M. Alexandra , Coutinho Mathilda L. , Salas-Colera Eduardo , Vigário Rogério
Published: July 2022

Bluish-grey limestones have been extensively used as ornamental stones for decoration purposes in buildings, as well as in works of art, and accordingly, have been the target of intense exploration. In Portugal, the Jurassic limestone massif known as the Maciço Calcário Estremenho (MCE), has been the source of grey-coloured ornamental stones, namely the Azul Valverde (one of the most well-known bluish-grey limestones) and Atlantic Blue varieties, both of which may undergo colour changes in outdoor environments. In this sense, it is important to understand the sudden colour change from bluish-grey to yellow/beige in the same limestone block in a quarry, or even, what happens to the colour when polished limestone is placed outdoors. This study was undertaken using various techniques, namely XRF (X-ray fluorescence spectrometry), XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), DTA–TG (differential thermal analysis/thermogravimetry) and colourimetry. Synchrotron radiation was also used at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF, Grenoble, France) where XANES (X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure) spectra at Fe K-edge were collected to ascertain the speciation state of Fe in different coloured zones of the limestone, previously checked by EDXRF (energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence). The presence of Fe2+ and Fe3+ are responsible for the greyish and yellow/brown colour, respectively. On the other hand, the UV radiation from the sun causes a quickened and severe bleaching/fading on the dark blue/grey polished limestone.
Determining Optimal Temperature Combination for Effective Pretreatment and Anaerobic Digestion of Corn Stalk
Authors: Li Juan , Li Xiujin , Wachemo Akiber Chufo , Chen Weiwei , Zuo Xiaoyu
Published: July 2022

Temperature is one of the important factors affecting both chemical pretreatment and anaerobic digestion (AD) process of corn stalk (CS). In this work, the combined ways between pretreatment temperature (40 °C and 60 °C) and AD temperature (35 °C and 55 °C) were selected to investigate the AD performance for sodium hydroxide (NaOH) pretreated CS. Three organic loading rates (OLRs) of 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 g·L−1·d−1 were studied within 255 days using continuously stirred tank reactors (CSTR). The results revealed that biogas yields of CS after pretreated were higher than that of untreated groups by 36.79–55.93% and 11.49–32.35%, respectively. When the temperature of NaOH pretreatment changed from 40 °C to 60 °C, there was no significant difference in enhancing the methane yields during the three OLRs. The mesophilic AD (MAD) of CS pretreated with 2% NaOH under 40 °C and 60 °C conditions produced 275 and 280 mL·gvs−1 methane yield at OLR of 1.6 g·L−1·d−1. However, as the OLR increased, the methane yield of CS under thermophilic AD (TAD) condition was further higher than under MAD condition. Furthermore, from the perspectives of energy balance and economic analysis, AD of 40 °C-treated CS recovered more energy and TAD is less expensive. Therefore, temperature of 40 °C was considered as an appropriate for pretreatment whether in mesophilic or thermophilic AD system. On the other hand, TAD was chosen as the optimal AD temperatures for higher OLRs.
Combined Effects of Obesity and Dyslipidaemia on the Prevalence of Diabetes Amongst Adults Aged ≥45 Years: Evidence from a Nationally Representative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Simin , Sun Donghan , Qian Xiaoyi , Li Li , Wu Wenwen
Published: July 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the combined effects of different types of obesity and dyslipidaemia on the prevalence of diabetes in middle-aged and elderly residents. Methods: Data were obtained from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Studydatabase, and 5023 valid participants were included after excluding those with missing data. A Chi-square test was used to test the difference in the prevalence of diabetes between the groups. Binary logistic regression was used to analyse the relationship between different types of obesity combined with dyslipidaemia and the prevalence of diabetes. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that, compared with those with a body mass index <24/ortholiposis, the subgroup with systemic obesity/dyslipidaemia had 4.37 times the risk of diabetes (OR = 4.37, 95% CI = 2.36–8.10, p < 0.001). In addition, compared with those with a normal waist circumference (WC)/ortholiposis, the subgroup with abdominal obesity/dyslipidaemia had 3.58 times the risk of diabetes (OR = 3.58, 95% CI = 2.49–5.13, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The coexistence of obesity and dyslipidaemia can significantly increase the risk of diabetes, suggesting that the strict control of weight, WC and lipid level is beneficial to the prevention of diabetes.
A Resilience Analysis of a Medical Mask Supply Chain during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Simulation Modeling Approach
Authors: Zheng Yi , Liu Li , Shi Victor , Huang Wenxing , Liao Jianxiu
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused severe consequences such as long-term disruptions and ripple effects on regional and global supply chains. In this paper, firstly, we design simulation models using AnyLogistix to investigate and predict the pandemic’s short-term and long-term disruptions on a medical mask supply chain. Then, the Green Field Analysis experiments are used to locate the backup facilities and optimize their inventory levels. Finally, risk analysis experiments are carried out to verify the resilience of the redesigned mask supply chain. Our major research findings include the following. First, when the pandemic spreads to the downstream of the supply chain, the duration of the downstream facilities disruption plays a critical role in the supply chain operation and performance. Second, adding backup facilities and optimizing their inventory levels are effective in responding to the pandemic. Overall, this paper provides insights for predicting the impacts of the pandemic on the medical mask supply chain. The results of this study can be used to redesign a medical mask supply chain to be more resilient and flexible.
Swallowing Outcomes in Open Partial Horizontal Laryngectomy Type I and Endoscopic Supraglottic Laryngectomy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Saraniti Carmelo , Ciodaro Francesco , Galletti Cosimo , Gallina Salvatore , Verro Barbara
Published: July 2022

Background: Effective swallowing represents the main challenge in supraglottic laryngectomy. This study aimed to assess swallowing outcome comparing endoscopic supraglottic laryngectomy (ESL) and open partial horizontal laryngectomy type I (OPHL I). Methods: A retrospective study was carried out on 20 patients that underwent supraglottic laryngectomy from 2015 to 2021: 10 underwent ESL (group A) and 10 underwent OPHL I (Group B). Patients underwent fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) 3 months and 12 months after surgery and videofluoroscopy swallowing studies (VFSS) 12 months after surgery. A Swallowing Outcome After Laryngectomy (SOAL) questionnaire was administered to patients to assess their life quality. Results: A naso-gastric tube was placed in two patients of Group A and in all patients of Group B. Tracheostomy was performed in two patients of Group A and in all patients in Group B and it has been closed in 100% of them. According to Donzelli’s scale, FEES and VFSS showed better results in Group A at 3 months, while at 12 months they did not show statistically significant differences between ESL and OPHL I in terms of laryngeal penetration and aspiration. The SOAL questionnaire showed satisfactory life quality. Conclusion: Swallowing evaluation by FEES and VFSS did not demonstrate statistically significant differences at 12 months post-op between two surgeries, although ESL showed less cases of laryngeal penetration and aspiration at 3 months post-op. Anyway, good results of any surgery depend on careful patient selection and the surgeon’s experience.
Economic Freedom, Education and CO2 Emissions: A Causality Analysis for EU Member States
Authors: Sart Gamze , Bayar Yilmaz , Danilina Marina , Sezgin Funda Hatice
Published: July 2022

Environmental sustainability is one of three pillars of sustainability. However, a significant worldwide deterioration in the environment has been experienced since the Industrial Revolution, but the efforts to protect the environment date back to the 1970s. In this context, many economic and non-economic factors underlying environmental degradation have been investigated until today, but the influence of economic freedom indicators and education on the environment have been relatively less analyzed and the researchers have mainly focused on the influence of economic and institutional variables on the environment. Therefore, this paper investigates the reciprocal interplay among economic freedom indicators, education, and environment in EU member states over the 2000–2018 term by using a causality test with cross-sectional dependency and heterogeneity and taking the research gap into consideration. The causality analysis indicates that market-oriented economic structure and education can be beneficial in combatting environmental degradation.
The Potential of Thyroid Hormone Therapy in Severe COVID-19: Rationale and Preliminary Evidence
Authors: Mourouzis Iordanis , Apostolaki Vassiliki , Trikas Athanasios , Kokkinos Leonidas , Alexandrou Natassa , Avdikou Maria , Giannoulopoulou Myrto , Vassi Aimilia , Tseti Ioulia , Pantos Constantinos
Published: July 2022

Tissue hypoxia is one of the main pathophysiologic mechanisms in sepsis and particularly in COVID-19. Microvascular dysfunction, endothelialitis and alterations in red blood cell hemorheology are all implicated in severe COVID-19 hypoxia and multiorgan dysfunction. Tissue hypoxia results in tissue injury and remodeling with re-emergence of fetal programming via hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1a)-dependent and -independent pathways. In this context, thyroid hormone (TH), a critical regulator of organ maturation, may be of relevance in preventing fetal-like hypoxia-induced remodeling in COVID-19 sepsis. Acute triiodothyronine (T3) treatment can prevent cardiac remodeling and improve recovery of function in clinical settings of hypoxic injury as acute myocardial infarction and by-pass cardiac surgery. Furthermore, T3 administration prevents tissue hypoxia in experimental sepsis. On the basis of this evidence, the use of T3 treatment was proposed for ICU (Intensive Care Unit) COVID-19 patients (Thy-Support, NCT04348513). The rationale for T3 therapy in severe COVID-19 and preliminary experimental and clinical evidence are discussed in this review.
Increased Secondary Attack Rates among the Household Contacts of Patients with the Omicron Variant of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 in Japan
Authors: Ogata Tsuyoshi , Tanaka Hideo , Tanaka Emiko , Osaki Natsumi , Noguchi Etsuko , Osaki Yukino , Tono Ayane , Wada Koji
Published: July 2022

This study investigated the household secondary attack rate (HSAR) of patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) during the omicron variant-dominant period. The HSAR of COVID-19 cases during the omicron variant-dominant period (4–20 January 2022) was calculated and compared with the delta variant-dominant period (20 August to 7 November 2021) in Itako, Japan. In Itako, all 47 and 119 samples tested during the omicron and delta variant-dominant periods were negative and positive, respectively, for the L452R mutation. We used a generalized estimating equation regression model. The HSAR was 31.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 27.7–36.2) for 456 household contacts during the omicron variant-dominant period; it was higher than that during the delta variant-dominant period (25.2%) (adjusted risk ratio [aRR] 1.61, CI 1.13–2.28). During the omicron variant-dominant period, HSAR was lower for the household contacts of completely vaccinated index patients (27.3%) than for contacts of other index patients (41.2%) (vaccine effectiveness for infectee 0.43, 95% CI 0.16–0.62) and was significantly higher for female contacts than for male contacts (36.2% vs. 26.1%; aRR 1.29, 95% CI 1.01–1.65). The HSAR was significantly higher during the omicron variant-dominant period than the delta variant-dominant period. The vaccination of index patients might protect household contacts.
Legionella and Air Transport: A Study of Environmental Contamination
Authors: Treglia Michele , Pallocci Margherita , Ricciardi Tenore Giorgio , Castellani Paola , Pizzuti Fabrizio , Bianco Giovanna , Passalacqua Pierluigi , De Luca Lucilla , Zanovello Claudia , Mazzuca Daniela , Gratteri Santo , Messineo Agostino , Quintavalle Giuseppe , Marsella Luigi Tonino
Published: July 2022

Introduction: There is growing interest in the public health and transport sectors in research into exposure to biological hazards, considering not only the risks arising from inter-human contagion, but also those related to exposure to the flight environment itself. The aim of this paper is to report data from an investigation into the water and air-conditioning systems of commercial aircraft for the presence of Legionella contamination, with a total of 645 water samples taken during the period 2007–2021. Methods: The investigation involved 126 aircraft of six different commercial aircraft types: MD80, Airbus A320 F, Embraer 175/190, AIRBUS A330, Boeing 767 and Boeing 777. Water samples were taken from the water systems (toilet taps, galley and boilers). Each sample was preliminarily subjected to an evaluation of the following parameters: temperature, pH and residual chlorine. The ScanVit® Legionella kit was used for bacteria detection and enumeration. Results: Samples were considered positive if the number of colony-forming units/liter (CFU/L) was >100. For the entire observation period, 45% of the investigated aircraft tested positive. Regarding the overall number of samples analyzed, 68.4% (441/645) were below 100 CFU/L, and thus within the limits allowed by the Italian Guidelines. Conclusions: Water system contamination with Legionella in the air transport field is a real public health issue that should not be underestimated given the heavy passenger traffic. Infection should be considered an occupational risk to which crew members are exposed.