bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Pengetahuan dan Sikap Remaja Putri Tentang Keputihan dan Praktek Personal Hygiene di Hunian Sementara Pasca Bencana Alam
Authors: Enggar Enggar , Riska Ratna Sari
Published: May 2020

Post-disaster causes survivors to occupy temporary shelters provided with cramped conditions and all-emergency. Survivors who need attention to reproductive health are young women. The study aimed to determine the relationship of knowledge with attitudes of young women about vaginal discharge and the practice of personal hygiene in Temporary Shelter Petobo and Gawalise. This study used analytic research Cross-Sectional Study. The number of samples was 47 young women—analysis by Rank Spearman test. The results of this study obtained the Relationship between Knowledge (p-value=0,231; r=0,178) with attitudes of young women about leucorrhoea and practices personal hygiene. It is expected that an increase in personal education hygiene in young women living in temporary shelters, due to the cramped conditions in the humid and less of lavatory can cause disease
Penatalaksanaan IMD pada Ibu Postpartum Sectio Caesarea Mempengaruhi Status Gizi dan Kecepatan Produksi ASI
Authors: Syukur Nursari Abdul , Purwanti Susi
Published: May 2020

Many mothers who give birth to Sectio Caesarea (SC) do not Initiate Early Breastfeeding (IMD), which fails exclusive breastfeeding. This study aimed to determine the effect of IMD management in postpartum SC mothers on nutritional status, speed of milk production, and quality of breast milk protein. Method: quantitative research with quasi approach experiment. The research design used was a pre-post-test control non-equivalent control group. A sampling of this study used the Consecutive method sampling with a sample of 20 mothers who gave birth by cesarean section (SC). Hypothesis testing uses the independent t-test and the Mann-Whitney test. The study results showed an influence on the management of IMD in postpartum SC mothers on the speed of ASI production (p-value=0.004) and nutritional status (p-value=0.028). There was no effect of IMD management on postpartum SC mothers on the quality of breast milk protein (p-value = 0.543). This study recommends that the hospital implement an IMD promotion program before the abdominal wall is closed as a form of intervention to increase milk production and maternal nutritional status
Pregnant Mother's Consumes Fe and Anemia Tablets in City Palu
Authors: Pont Anna Veronica , Lisnawati Lisnawati
Published: May 2020

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 10% of live births experience complications from postpartum bleeding. The most frequent complication of postpartum bleeding is anemia. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of compliance of pregnant women consuming Fe tablets with anemia in the Talise Health Center Community in Palu City. This type of research was a cross-sectional design that involved first and second-semester pregnant women, and as many as 209 people. The number of samples was  34 people. Purposive sampling technique. Univariate and bivariate analysis (chi-square test). The results showed 92.3% of respondents' compliance and 7.7% of anemia, while non-compliant respondents took 37.5% of Fe tablets without anemia, and 62.5% of those who were not obedient and had anemia. Chi-square test results p = 0.004 (<0.05), there was an effect of compliance of pregnant women with anemia in Talise Health Center Community, Palu City. In conclusion, there is an influence of compliance of pregnant women with anemia at the Talise Health Center Community in Palu City. It is recommended to actively conduct counseling about the benefits of Fe tablets during the pregnancy.
PENGUKURAN TINGKAT KEPUASAN KONSUMEN TERHADAP KUALITAS PELAYANAN ETHIKOPIA COFFEE DI KABUPATEN SLEMAN
Authors: Wisudawati Tri , Saputro Wahyu Adhi
Published: May 2020

The coffe shop is not just a place to drink coffe but is a lifestyle. Coffee had a positive development trend in accordance with the habits of many people to drink coffee. One of the cafes that is currently popular in Sleman Regency is Ethikopia Coffee. Ethikopia Coffe visitors are satisfied to enjoy coffe products. This study aims to determine the final level of and italic statisfaction using servqual and in terms of five aspects namely tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance and empathy. This study used 30 samples with method a accidental sampling. Servqual score shows the average value gab for each dimension, tangible (-0.75), reliability (-0.47), responsive (-0.20) assurance (-1.01) and empathy (-0,42). The IPA analysis on Ethikopia Coffe that needs to be improved is in quadrant I is the tangible, responsive and empathic dimensions.
USULAN PERBAIKAN TATA LETAK FASILITAS PRODUKSI INDUSTRI KOPI STUDI KASUS CV. TRI ANOM AGROTEKTUR
Authors: Martha Nabilla Saptaryana , Ardiansah Irfan
Published: May 2020

Industrial layout is one of the important factors that affecting the efficiency of the production operation process, which can be seen from the material movement activities to be processed into products. CV. Tri Anom Agrotektur manages the coffee industry which is divided into 2 activity sectors, namely the upstream and downstream sectors. This study designed a proposal to improve the factory layout of the company’s upstream sector using qualitative methods and direct interviews with factory employees. In determining the layout improvement of the industry, it is necessary to first identify the production process, using the Process Flow Diagram and Process Flow Map. The data processing methods used are: Activity Relationship Chart (ARC), Activity Relationship Diagram (ARD), and Activity Allocation Diagram (AAD). Total area of the factory building is ± 1.072 m2, while the proposed total area of the building based on the area of the machine, the area of the employee’s movement and the additional area of production support room is ± 833 m2. The total proposed rooms are 23 rooms. Proposed improvements to the industrial layout can be use as company reference that is expected to increase productivity and reduce production costs
PENERAPAN METODE KLASIFIKASI ABC DAN 5S PADA GUDANG TOOLS PT. MESIN ISUZU INDONESIA
Authors: Putra Olga Aditya , Prakoso Indro
Published: May 2020

PT.Mesin Isuzu Indonesia manufacturing industry engaged in the automotive sector which produces machinery for Isuzu products as well as several other car parts. The warehouse is a very vital place for every company, the optimal warehouse layout will support the company's production process in meeting production targets because makes it easy to get things. The potential for tool changes can not be avoided and can occur at any time, the search process for the old tool will increase maintenance time so that it is feared that the target wil not be met. This means that the layout of the tool shed must be made optimal so that when engine maintenance occurs the search process for the tool does not take much time. ABC Classification is a method for grouping based on 3 types: fast, medium, and slow. The results of this research are the layout of tools on a shelf based on ABC classification and 5S principles
OPTIMASI BIAYA PENGIRIMAN KELAPA MENGGUNAKAN MODEL TRANSPORTASI METODE STEPPING STONE
Authors: Septiana Muhamad Anwar , Hidayattulloh Rifki , Machmudin Jamari , Anggraeni Nitta Fitria
Published: May 2020

Kelapa merupakan salah satu komoditi yang cukup penting bagi kebutuhan pangan di Indonesia khususnya untuk masakan berbahan baku santan dan kelapa parut. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menyelesaikan permasalahan biaya pengiriman kelapa pada tingkatan pedagang grosir kelapa dengan nama pemilik Pak Yayan di daerah Bandung Raya. Kelapa dipasok dari 3 daerah yaitu Tasikmalaya, Lampung dan Riau. Dari ketiga daerah tersebut kelapa akan disimpan di 3 gudang yaitu Karapitan, Ciganitri dan Cikoneng. Dari ketiga gudang tersebut kelapa akan didistribusikan ke 3 pasar di Bandung yaitu Pasar Cijerah, Pasar Buah Batu dan Pasar Baleendah. Pengiriman kelapa menggunakan alat transportasi darat berupa mobil pick up. Biaya pengiriman dihitung berdasarkan jumlah per butir kelapa yang akan dikirim ke pasar. Untuk mengoptimasi biaya pengiriman ke 3 pasar di Bandung digunakan model transportasi Northwest Corner (NWC). Langkah awal untuk menyelesaikan biaya transportasi pengiriman yang optimum dengan membentuk biaya pengiriman dari gudang ke pasar, jumlah kelapa yang disimpan di gudang dan permintaan kelapa pada tiap pasar kedalam model transportasi. Hasil perhitungan langsung biaya transportasi pengiriman kelapa dari 3 gudang ke 3 pasar dengan model Northwest Corner adalah sebesar Rp 167.500. Selanjutnya mencari hasil paling optimal dengan menggunakan metode Stepping Stone yang dapat memberikan solusi optimal biaya transportasi pengiriman kelapa menjadi sebesar Rp 147.500 Sehingga dengan mencari hasil paling optimal dengan menggunakan metode Stepping Stone dapat menghemat biaya transportasi pengiriman kelapa dari gudang ke pasar sebesar Rp 20.000
OPTIMASI KAPASITAS PRODUKSI UKM DENGAN GOAL PROGRAMMING
Authors: Sugianto Welly
Published: May 2020

UKM Jovelyn is a small medium enterprise (SME) that engaged in the field of bakery production. Until now, they produce cakes and cookies. They sell products throughout the Batam area which includes (Tiban market, aviari market, mitra market and puja bahari market), shops, school canteens and so on. The SME targets several things such as profit per month, number of hours worked, number of overtime hours, machine utilities, labor utilities and so forth. Until now, the SME has not been able to reach  the targets because the UKM has not determined the production amount based on the appropriate calculation. The number of products made is determined only on an intuitive basis. Determination of the amount of production cannot be determined by the usual simplex method because the objective function in the usual simplex method contains a target. Problem solving is done by using goal programming. The results of the calculation analysis show that to achieve the optimal value, the SME must produce coconut root cookies, butter cookies, nastar cookies, snow princess cookies and peanut cookies respectively 11.89 kg, 22.43 kg, 24.96 kg , 1.97kg and 0 kg. Sensitivity analysis is carried out after there are changes in conditions that result in changes in the linear program matrix, so the number of products that must be made also changes which include coconut root cookies as much as 12.8 kg, as much as 16.91 kg of butter cookies, nastar cookies as much as 25.7 and the last is 3.39 kg of nut cookies which in the initial calculation, nut cookies were not produced. The sensitivity analysis is not done by recalculation but rather by modifying the matrix and completing iteration with primal dual.
ANALISIS BIAYA TRANSPORTASI DISTRIBUSI PUPUK MENGGUNAKAN SOFTWARE LINGO
Authors: Aida Fitria Noor , Rahmanda Windi
Published: May 2020

The distribution of fertilizers in Central Sulawesi Province has not been efficient due to the large transportation costs in March 2016, the distribution of fertilizers could not go directly to retailers because the distance between regencies was far enough so that fertilizer was sent to distributors before to retailers to minimize costs to be incurred. company. Transhipment problems are in the form of indirect distribution problems because the products sent must go through several stages before reaching the consumer. This study will compare the Vogel Approximation method in previous studies with the completion of linear programming with Lingo software tools. Transportation costs using the Vogel Approximation method in previous studies compared with transportation costs using the Lingo software tool have the same cost of IDR 508,289,000, but there are several different fertilizer distributions. Lingo software simplifies data processing so that the results obtained are more accurate than the Vogel Approximation method. Companies can use lingo software to minimize costs by working effectively and efficiently.
Comparative Transcriptome Profiling Analysis Uncovers Novel Heterosis-Related Candidate Genes Associated with Muscular Endurance in Mules
Authors: Gao Shan , Nanaei Hojjat Asadollahpour , Wei Bin , Wang Yu , Wang Xihong , Li Zongjun , Dai Xuelei , Wang Zhichao , Jiang Yu , Shao Junjie
Published: June 2020

Heterosis has been widely exploited in animal and plant breeding programs to enhance the productive traits of hybrid progeny from two breeds or species. However, its underlying genetic mechanisms remain enigmatic. Transcriptome profiling analysis can be used as a method for exploring the mechanism of heterosis. Here, we performed genome-wide gene expression and alternative splicing (AS) analyses in different tissues (muscle, brain, and skin) from crosses between donkeys and horses. Our results indicated that 86.1% of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 87.2% of the differential alternative splicing (DAS) genes showed over-dominance and dominance in muscle. Further analysis showed that the “muscle contraction” pathway was significantly enriched for both the DEGs and DAS genes in mule muscle tissue. Taken together, these DEGs and DAS genes could provide an index for future studies of the genetic and molecular mechanism of heterosis in the hybrids of donkey and horse.
Impact of Climate Change on Olive Crop Production in Italy
Authors: Orlandi Fabio , Rojo Jesús , Picornell Antonio , Oteros Jose , Pérez-Badia Rosa , Fornaciari Marco
Published: June 2020

The effects of climate change on agricultural systems raise important uncertainties about the future productivity and suitability of crops, especially in areas suffering from intense environmental changes. Olive groves occupy Mediterranean areas characterized by seasonal temporary droughts, which cause this cultivation to be highly dependent on local microclimatic conditions. Olive crop production can be reliably estimated using pollen intensity metrics together with post-pollination environmental conditions. In this study, we applied this kind of statistics-based models to identify the most relevant meteorological variables during the post-pollination periods for olive fruit production. Olive pollen time-series for the period of 1999–2012 was analyzed in 16 Italian provinces. Minimum and maximum temperature during spring and summer (March–August) showed a negative relationship with olive production, while precipitation always showed a positive correlation. The increase in aridity conditions observed in areas of Italy during the summer represents an important risk of decreasing olive crop production. The effect of climate change on the olive production trend is not clear because of the interactions between human and environmental factors, although some areas might show an increase in productivity in the near future under different climate change scenarios. However, as more drastic changes in temperature or precipitation take place, the risk to olive production will be considerably greater.
Considering the Experimental Use of Temozolomide in Glioblastoma Research
Authors: Herbener Verena J. , Burster Timo , Goreth Alicia , Pruss Maximilian , von Bandemer Hélène , Baisch Tim , Fitzel Rahel , Siegelin Markus D. , Karpel-Massler Georg , Debatin Klaus-Michael , Westhoff Mike-Andrew , Strobel Hannah
Published: June 2020

Temozolomide (TMZ) currently remains the only chemotherapeutic component in the approved treatment scheme for Glioblastoma (GB), the most common primary brain tumour with a dismal patient’s survival prognosis of only ~15 months. While frequently described as an alkylating agent that causes DNA damage and thus—ultimately—cell death, a recent debate has been initiated to re-evaluate the therapeutic role of TMZ in GB. Here, we discuss the experimental use of TMZ and highlight how it differs from its clinical role. Four areas could be identified in which the experimental data is particularly limited in its translational potential: 1. transferring clinical dosing and scheduling to an experimental system and vice versa; 2. the different use of (non-inert) solvent in clinic and laboratory; 3. the limitations of established GB cell lines which only poorly mimic GB tumours; and 4. the limitations of animal models lacking an immune response. Discussing these limitations in a broader biomedical context, we offer suggestions as to how to improve transferability of data. Finally, we highlight an underexplored function of TMZ in modulating the immune system, as an example of where the aforementioned limitations impede the progression of our knowledge.
Osteopontin and Integrin Mediated Modulation of Post-Synapses in HIV Envelope Glycoprotein Exposed Hippocampal Neurons
Authors: Mahmud Farina J. , Boucher Thomas , Liang Shijun , Brown Amanda M.
Published: June 2020

The advent of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) antiretrovirals have reduced the severity of HIV related neurological comorbidities but they nevertheless remain prevalent. Synaptic degeneration due to the action of several viral factors released from infected brain myeloid and glia cells and inflammatory cytokines has been attributed to the manifestation of a range of cognitive and behavioral deficits. The contributions of specific pro-inflammatory factors and their interplay with viral factors in the setting of treatment and persistence are incompletely understood. Exposure of neurons to chemokine receptor-4(CXCR4)-tropic HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) can lead to post-synaptic degradation of dendritic spines. The contribution of members of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and specifically, of perineuronal nets (PNN) toward synaptic degeneration, is not fully known, even though these structures are found to be disrupted in post-mortem HIV-infected brains. Osteopontin (Opn, gene name SPP1), a cytokine-like protein, is found in abundance in the HIV-infected brain. In this study, we investigated the role of Opn and its ECM integrin receptors, β1- and β3 integrin in modifying neuronal synaptic sculpting. We found that in hippocampal neurons incubated with HIV-1 Env protein and recombinant Opn, post-synaptic-95 (PSD-95) puncta were significantly increased and distributed to dendritic spines when compared to Env-only treated neurons. This effect was mediated through β3 integrin, as silencing of this receptor abrogated the increase in post-synaptic spines. Silencing of β1 integrin, however, did not block the increase of post-synaptic spines in hippocampal cultures treated with Opn. However, a decrease in the PNN to βIII-tubulin ratio was found, indicating an increased capacity to support spine growth. From these results, we conclude that one of the mechanisms by which Opn counters the damaging impact of the HIV Env protein on hippocampal post-synaptic plasticity is through complex interactions between Opn and components of the ECM which activate downstream protective signaling pathways that help maintain the potential for effective post-synaptic plasticity.
PDX1 DNA Methylation Distinguishes Two Subtypes of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms with a Different Prognosis
Authors: Boons Gitta , Vandamme Timon , Ibrahim Joe , Roeyen Geert , Driessen Ann , Peeters Dieter , Lawrence Ben , Print Cristin , Peeters Marc , Van Camp Guy , Op de Beeck Ken
Published: June 2020

DNA methylation is a crucial epigenetic mechanism for gene expression regulation and cell differentiation. Furthermore, it was found to play a major role in multiple pathological processes, including cancer. In pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PNENs), epigenetic deregulation is also considered to be of significance, as the most frequently mutated genes have an important function in epigenetic regulation. However, the exact changes in DNA methylation between PNENs and the endocrine cells of the pancreas, their likely cell-of-origin, remain largely unknown. Recently, two subtypes of PNENs have been described which were linked to cell-of-origin and have a different prognosis. A difference in the expression of the transcription factor PDX1 was one of the key molecular differences. In this study, we performed an exploratory genome-wide DNA methylation analysis using Infinium Methylation EPIC arrays (Illumina) on 26 PNENs and pancreatic islets of five healthy donors. In addition, the methylation profile of the PDX1 region was used to perform subtyping in a global cohort of 83 PNEN, 2 healthy alpha cell and 3 healthy beta cell samples. In our exploratory analysis, we identified 26,759 differentially methylated CpGs and 79 differentially methylated regions. The gene set enrichment analysis highlighted several interesting pathways targeted by altered DNA methylation, including MAPK, platelet-related and immune system-related pathways. Using the PDX1 methylation in 83 PNEN, 2 healthy alpha cell and 3 healthy beta cell samples, two subtypes were identified, subtypes A and B, which were similar to alpha and beta cells, respectively. These subtypes had different clinicopathological characteristics, a different pattern of chromosomal alterations and a different prognosis, with subtype A having a significantly worse prognosis compared with subtype B (HR 0.22 [95% CI: 0.051–0.95], p = 0.043). Hence, this study demonstrates that several cancer-related pathways are differently methylated between PNENs and normal islet cells. In addition, we validated the use of the PDX1 methylation status for the subtyping of PNENs and its prognostic importance.
ImmunoPET in Multiple Myeloma—What? So What? Now What?
Authors: Bailly Clément , Chalopin Benjamin , Gouard Sébastien , Carlier Thomas , Remaud-Le Saëc Patricia , Marionneau-Lambot Séverine , Moreau Philippe , Touzeau Cyrille , Kraeber-Bodere Françoise , Bodet-Milin Caroline , Chérel Michel
Published: June 2020

Despite constant progress over the past three decades, multiple myeloma (MM) is still an incurable disease, and the identification of new biomarkers to better select patients and adapt therapy is more relevant than ever. Recently, the introduction of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) (including direct-targeting mAbs and immune checkpoint inhibitors) appears to have changed the paradigm of MM management, emphasizing the opportunity to cure MM patients through an immunotherapeutic approach. In this context, immuno-positron emission tomography (immunoPET), combining the high sensitivity and resolution of a PET camera with the specificity of a radiolabelled mAb, holds the capability to cement this new treatment paradigm for MM patients. It has the potential to non-invasively monitor the distribution of therapeutic antibodies or directly monitor biomarkers on MM cells, and to allow direct observation of potential changes over time and in response to various therapeutic interventions. Tumor response could, in the future, be anticipated more effectively to provide individualized treatment plans tailored to patients according to their unique imaging signatures. This work explores the important role played by immunotherapeutics in the management of MM, and focuses on some of the challenges for this drug class and the significant interest of companion imaging agents such as immunoPET.
Cosmetic Use-Related Adverse Events: Findings from Lay Public in Malaysia
Authors: Hadi Hazrina , Ai Nur’ain , Zamli Mazlina , Awadh Ammar Ihsan , Zafar Muhammad Zeeshan , Jamshed Shazia
Published: June 2020

Objectives: Although the occurrence of adverse cosmetic reactions is often underestimated by the consumers, the documentation of the incident might be helpful for the authority in regulating the cosmetic products. The objectives of this study were to assess the prevalence and type of adverse cosmetic event (ACE), as well as the measures adopted by those experiencing the ACE. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using a structured questionnaire comprised of 11 questions. The questionnaire was divided into two sections: demographic profile and adverse cosmetic reaction. A total of 552 cosmetic users in Malaysia participated in this study. Data were entered into Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 and descriptive statistics was applied. Findings: A total of 29% respondents have experienced ACEs. Eczema was found to be the most frequent type of ACE. Facial area (n = 178) was reported to be the most frequent body site affected by ACEs. A mere 41% attempted to consult health professionals. Conclusions: Few respondents consulted health professionals for recommendations, indicating that they misjudge occurrences related to adverse outcomes. The high diversity and non-specificity of cosmetic adverse reactions reported in the current research highlighted the need for a vigorous cosmetovigilance system.
Unravelling the Chemistry of the [Cu(4,7-Dichloroquinoline)2Br2]2 Dimeric Complex through Structural Analysis: A Borderline Ligand Field Case
Authors: Finocchio Giada , Rizzato Silvia , Macetti Giovanni , Tusha Gers , Lo Presti Leonardo
Published: June 2020

Large dark prismatic crystals (P 1 ¯ ) consisting of closely packed centrosymmetric [Cu(4,7-dichloroquinoline)2]2Br4 binuclear units are formed when 4,7-dichloroquinoline (DCQ, C9H5NCl2) binds copper(II). Cu2+ adopts a strongly distorted square pyramidal coordination geometry, perturbed by electrostatic interactions with two axial μ–Br ligands acting as highly asymmetric bridges. It is shown that, as electronic states of ligands are higher in energy than the metal ones, antibonding orbitals bear significant ligand-like character and electronic charge is partially transferred from inner-sphere coordinated halogen atoms to copper. Overall, the title compound sits on the Hoffman’s border between main group and transition chemistry, with non-negligible contributions of the ligands to the frontier orbitals. The relative energy placement of metal and ligand states determines an internal redox process, where the metal is slightly reduced at the expense of partial oxidation of the bromide ligands. In fact, the crystal structure is partially disordered due to the substitution of some penta-coordinated Cu(II) centers with tetra-coordinated Cu(I) ions. The geometry of the complex is rationalized in terms of electrostatic-driven distortions from an ideal octahedral prototype. Implications on the reactivity of Cu(II)–quinoline complexes are discussed.
Implant Diameter, Length, and the Insertion Torque/Depth Integral: A Study Using Polyurethane Foam Blocks
Authors: Arosio Paolo , Arosio Federico , Di Stefano Danilo Alessio
Published: June 2020

The amount of energy necessary to place an implant in its seat, described as the integral of the torque-depth curve at insertion (I), has been validated as a reliable measure of primary stability. This study aimed to investigate whether (I) may detect the variations in primary stability caused by changes in the implant length or diameter better than the insertion torque (IT). Cylindric implants featuring a double-etched, sandblasted surface with different diameters or lengths were placed into monolithic polyurethane foam blocks with different densities that mimicked human bone. (I)-, (I)*-, IT-, IT*-diameter and -length plots ((I)* and IT* were the derived values corrected for undersizing) were drawn and the relation between (I), (I)*, IT, and IT* and the fixture diameter or length was investigated with correlation analysis. (I)* and IT* correlated better than (I) and IT with the fixture diameter; (I), (I)*, IT, and IT* correlated equally well with the fixture length. In all cases, the slopes of the lines best fitting the experimental data were greater for (I) or (I)* than IT or IT*, respectively. (I) or (I)* were better detectors than IT or IT* of the changes in primary stability that can be achieved by increasing the fixture diameter or length.
Power-Efficient Driver Circuit for Piezo Electric Actuator with Passive Charge Recovery
Authors: Ozaki Takashi , Ohta Norikazu
Published: June 2020

Piezoelectric actuation is a promising principle for insect-scaled robots. A major concern while utilizing a piezoelectric actuator is energy loss due to its parasitic capacitance. In this paper, we propose a new concept to recover the charge stored in the parasitic capacitance; it requires only three additional lightweight passive components: two diodes and a resistor. The advantages of our concept are its small additional mass and simple operating procedure compared with existing charge recovery circuits. We provided a guideline for selecting a resistor using a simplified theoretical model and found that half of the charge can be recovered by employing a resistor that has a resistance sufficiently larger than the forward resistance of the additional diode. In addition, we experimentally demonstrated the concept. With a capacitive load (as a replacement for the piezoelectric actuator), it was successfully observed that the proposed concept decreased the power consumption to 58% of that in a circuit without charge recovery. Considering micro aerial vehicle (MAV) applications, we measured the lift-to-power efficiency of a flapping wing piezoelectric actuator by applying the proposed concept. The lift force was not affected by charge recovery; however, the power consumption was reduced. As a result, the efficiency was improved to 30.0%. We expect that the proposed circuit will contribute to the advancement of energy-saving microrobotics.
Heating Performance Characteristics of an Electric Vehicle Heat Pump Air Conditioning System Based on Exergy Analysis
Authors: Tang Xingwang , Guo Qin , Li Ming , Jiang Mingzhe
Published: June 2020

In this paper, a heat pump air conditioning system (HPACS) with refrigerant R134a based on the functional requirements of battery electric vehicle is designed and tested. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of different ambient temperature, air flow rate of internal condenser, expansion valve (EXV) opening and compressor speed. The results demonstrate that air flow rate of internal condenser, EXV opening and compressor speed have important impact on heating capacity, compressor power consumption and coefficient of performance (COP) under several ambient temperatures. To verify the HPACS can also provide the heating capacity required by the battery electric vehicle cabin in cold climate, the system was also tested under a −5 °C ambient temperature, it was found that the heating capacity is 3.6 kW and the COP is 3.2, demonstrating that the system has high energy efficiency. In addition, heating process analysis of the HPACS under lower temperature is studied by exergy principle. The results indicate that compressor is the highest exergy destruction in all components, accounting for 55%. The percentage of exergy destruction in other components is about 28%, 12% and 5% for the expansive valve, condenser, and evaporator. Furthermore, air flow rate of internal condenser, ambient temperature and expansion valve opening have important impact on exergy destruction and exergy efficiency of the HPACS.
Computer Simulation as a Tool for Managing the Technical Development of Methods for Diagnosing the Technical Condition of a Vehicle
Authors: Tucki Karol , Wasiak Andrzej , Orynycz Olga , Mruk Remigiusz
Published: June 2020

Introduced by the Civil Code, the rules of road safety are introducing continuously increasingly strict requirements on motor vehicles. These requirements relate to various aspects of the technical condition of vehicles, both those that determine traffic safety and those that affect the vehicle’s environmental impact. The law requires regular diagnosis of the technical condition of vehicles in service. Diagnostic tests conducted in the form of road tests or the tests performed in workshop conditions allow to determine the symptoms of dysfunctions of the tested vehicle, not always clearly defining the causes and location of damage. The purpose of the work is the design the simulation of a station for of vehicle dynamics tests up to 3.5 t using simulation programs OpenModelica and SciLab. A simulation of the work of the stand for testing the dynamics of vehicles in the form of a chassis dynamometer was achieved. The program enables the simulation of tests: NEDC (New European Drive Cycle), WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure), CADCM150 (joint Artemis driving cycle—Motorway at vMax = 150 kph), CADCU (Common Artemis Driving Cycle—Urban), FTP75 EPA (Federal Test Procedure, Environmental Protection Agency). The simulator (for any assumed type of vehicle) can be used in two modes: 1. Introduction of the presumed cause—Generates the expected results in the functioning of the vehicle. This function can be used to create a cause–effect relational database. 2. Analysis of data from the actual diagnostic system suggesting the causes of the observed (measured) errors in the functioning of the system. The simulator can be used both to design and implement the technological development of intelligent diagnostic systems, and to support the creation of application software for a workshop diagnostic system. Introducing the simulator into practice will also enable the improvement of road safety management.
Effect of Multi-Factor Coupling on the Movement Characteristics of the Hydraulic Variable Valve Actuation
Authors: Jin Zhaohui , Hong Wei , You Tian , Su Yan , Li Xiaoping , Xie Fangxi
Published: June 2020

Studies show that the valve lift (VL) of the cam-driven hydraulic variable valve actuation (VVA) can be continuously adjusted in the range of 0–8.2 mm by controlling the opening of the throttling valve. In the present study, an orthogonal experiment with interaction was designed to analyze the effect of multi-factor coupling on the VL, valve-seating velocity (VSV), and pressure fluctuation in the valve piston cavity. In order to reduce the pressure fluctuation, the Taguchi method was applied to find the optimal combination of the key parameters including the diameter of the piston, the spring preload of the valve-seating buffer mechanism (VSBM), the spring preload of the valve, and the valve piston mass. The correctness of the VVA simulation model is verified through experiments. Moreover, the pressure fluctuation is analyzed through a numerical simulation. The obtained results showed that as long as the VSV is less than 0.5 m·s−1, the pressure fluctuations in hydraulic VVA can be reduced by several means, such as increasing the spring stiffness of the VSBM and valve, increasing the valve piston area and diameter size of the thin-walled hole, and reducing the valve piston mass and total hydraulic oil volume.
Novel Time Method of Identification of Fractional Model Parameters of Supercapacitor
Authors: Lewandowski Miroslaw , Orzylowski Marek
Published: June 2020

Accurate dynamic models of supercapacitors (SCs) are a basis for the design, control and exploitation of the hybrid energy storage systems for electric vehicles. This paper concerns a fractional model of SC impedance, based on the Cole–Cole equation describing relaxation in electric double layer. This article provides a new method of identifying the parameters of fractional order model of SC impedance, performed without disconnecting the SC module from the energy storage system. The test drive for this purpose needs only the respect a few simple recommendations. The article presents the conditions of the mentioned test drive that will ensure the frequency spectra of the recorded signals lying in the bandwidth necessary for the correct identification of the model parameters. These parameters are determined by means of the Nelder–Mead simplex optimization method. The results of the identification described by the time method coincide with those obtained in the frequency domain. It has been shown in the last part of the article that the real energy losses in these systems significantly exceed the losses determined only on the basis of the nominal capacity and series equivalent resistance (ESR), to which the SC catalogue data are usually limited. This paper also provides an auxiliary frequency criterion for the selection of SCs intended for energy storage systems of electric vehicles.
Bubble Electret-Elastomer Piezoelectric Transducer
Authors: Kacprzyk Ryszard , Mirkowska Agnieszka
Published: June 2020

Ferroelectret-based piezoelectric transducers are, nowadays, commonly used in energy harvesting applications due to their high piezoelectric activity. Unfortunately, the processing properties of such materials are limited, and new solutions are sought. This paper presents a new solution of a piezoelectric transducer containing electret bubbles immersed in an elastomer matrix. Application of a gas-filled dielectric bubble as the fundamental cell of the piezo-active structure is discussed. A simplified model of the structure, containing electret thin-wall bubbles and elastomer dielectric filling, was applied to determine the value of the piezoelectric coefficient, d33. An exemplary structure containing piezo-active bubbles, made of an electret material, immersed in an elastomer filling is presented. The influence of the mechanical and electrical properties of particular components on the structure piezoelectric properties are experimentally examined and confirmed. The quasi-static method was used to measure the piezoelectric coefficient, d33. The separation of requirements related to the mechanical and electrical properties of the transducer is discussed.
Drought Resistance of Norway Spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst) and European Beech (Fagus sylvatica [L.]) in Mixed vs. Monospecific Stands and on Dry vs. Wet Sites. From Evidence at the Tree Level to Relevance at the Stand Level
Authors: Rukh Shah , Poschenrieder Werner , Heym Michael , Pretzsch Hans
Published: June 2020

Frequency of drought years is expected to increase through climate warming. Mixed stands have often shown to be more productive than monospecific stands in terms of yield and of resistance against windthrows and bark beetle attacks. Mixture of beech and spruce is of particular interest. However, little is known about its growth reaction to drought. Therefore, we investigated the drought reaction of beech and spruce in mixed vs. monospecific stands along an ecological gradient. In particular, we sought evidence for mixture-related resilience on the individual tree level. Therefore, we quantified the response of tree ring width to drought. Moreover, we attempted to explain the relevance of individual tree response on the stand level by quantifying the stand level loss of volume growth after drought. At the individual tree level, beech was found to be more resilient and resistant in pure vs. mixed stands. Spruce, in contrast, was favored by mixture, and this was especially evident on drier sites. Along the gradient, growth losses at stand level increased in both mixed and pure stands in 2015, with growth gains on the drier sites observed in the same drought year, in accordance with the Stress Gradient Hypothesis. However, the stand level difference of growth loss between mixed and pure stands was not statistically significant. Mitigating mixture effects on the level of the individual tree thus did not become evident on the level of the whole stand.
Presentation of Acrodermatitis Chronica Atrophicans Rashes on Lyme Disease Patients in Canada
Authors: Scott John D.
Published: June 2020

Lyme disease (Lyme borreliosis) is a complex multisystem illness with varying clinical manifestations. This tick-borne zoonosis is caused by the spirochetal bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (Bbsl) and, worldwide, presents with at least 20 different types of rashes. Certain cutaneous rashes are inherently interconnected to various stages of Lyme disease. In this study, five Canadian Lyme disease patients from a multi-age range presented various phases of the acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA) rash. In each case of ACA, the underlying etiological pathogen was the Lyme disease spirochete. Although ACA rashes are normally found on the lower extremities, this study illustrates that ACA rashes are not directly correlated with a tick bite, geographic area, age, Bbsl genospecies, exercise, or any given surface area of the body. Case 4 provides confirmation for an ACA rash and gestational Lyme disease. One patient (Case 5) puts forth a Bbsl and Bartonella sp. co-infection with a complex ACA rash. This study documents ACA rashes on Lyme disease patients for the first time in Canada.
Guidelines for Physical Activity—A Cross-Sectional Study to Assess Their Application in the General Population. Have We Achieved Our Goal?
Authors: Palermi Stefano , Sacco Anna Maria , Belviso Immacolata , Romano Veronica , Montesano Pietro , Corrado Bruno , Sirico Felice
Published: June 2020

National and international healthcare organizations propose guidelines for physical activity worldwide, defining its characteristics. These guidelines’ practical applications are difficult to estimate, since they are not fully followed. The aim of the present cross-sectional observational study was to assess awareness about guidelines for physical activity and to evaluate their practical applications in a sample of the Italian population. In total, 310 participants completed an online survey (mean age 29.10 ± 4.44), assessing the habits, beliefs and health effects of physical activity. In total, 39.35% of respondents were inactive. In total, 6.91% of active respondents did not perform a warm-up phase at the beginning of each training session and 77.14% did not check their own heart rate during the training session. Approximately half of respondents reported erroneous beliefs about the type, frequency and volume of physical activity, compared to data proposed by the guidelines. The preventive effect of physical activity was clearly perceived for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and depression. Several subjects misinterpreted the preventive role of physical activity in colon and breast cancers, and in femur and vertebral fractures. Habits and beliefs about physical activity in the general population are far from the guidelines and recommendations. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the conscious practice of physical activity further.
Burnout in Nursing Managers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Related Factors, Levels and Prevalence
Authors: Membrive-Jiménez María José , Pradas-Hernández Laura , Suleiman-Martos Nora , Vargas-Román Keyla , Cañadas-De la Fuente Guillermo A. , Gomez-Urquiza José Luis , De la Fuente-Solana Emilia I.
Published: June 2020

Burnout syndrome is a major problem in occupational health, which also affects nursing managers. The main aim was to analyze the level, prevalence and risk factors of burnout among nursing managers. A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted. The databases used were Medline (Pubmed), PsycINFO, CINAHL, LILACS, Scielo and Scopus. The search equation was “burnout AND nurs* AND (health manager OR case managers)”. Nursing managers present high levels of emotional exhaustion and a high degree of depersonalization. Some studies show that variables like age, gender, marital status, having children or mobbing and other occupational factors are related with burnout. The prevalence estimation of emotional exhaustion with the meta-analysis was high; 29% (95% CI = 9–56) with a sample of n = 780 nursing managers. The meta-analytical estimation of the correlation between burnout and age was r = −0.07 (95% CI = −0.23–0.08). Work overload, the need to mediate personnel conflicts, lack of time and support from superior staff, contribute to the development of burnout among nursing managers.
Public Health Emergency and Crisis Management: Case Study of SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak
Authors: Choi Hemin , Cho Wonhyuk , Kim Min-Hyu , Hur Joon-Young
Published: June 2020

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has caused an unparalleled public health crisis, delivering an immense shock to humanity. With the virus’s health consequences largely unknown, different health systems around the globe have pursued various avenues of crisis management. South Korea, troubled early by the virus, was once the second most affected nation in the world. Arrays of measures in South Korea, such as large-scale diagnostic testing and technology-based comprehensive contact tracing, have brought about debates among public health experts and medical professionals. This case study describes the major cluster transmissions in SARS-CoV-2 hotspots in South Korea (such as a religious sect, a call center, logistics facilities, and nightclubs) and offers early observations on how South Korean public health authorities acted in response to the initial outbreak of the virus and to the new waves prompted by re-opening economies. We then discuss the way in which South Korea’s experience can act as a reference for shaping other countries’ public health strategies in pandemic crisis management.
A Parsonian Approach to Patient Safety: Transformational Leadership and Social Capital as Preconditions for Clinical Risk Management—the GI Factor
Authors: Pfaff Holger , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of the combination of transformational leadership and social capital in safety capacity building. Drawing on the A-G-I-L concept of Talcott Parsons, we test a model for patient safety. The hypothesis is, that good safety management needs a combination of goal attainment (G) and integration (I), here called the GI factor. We tested this hypothesis by using transformational leadership as a surrogate for goal attainment and social capital as a surrogate for integration in a study of the perceptions of chief medical officers in 551 German hospitals. We conducted a cross-sectional hospital survey combined with secondary data analysis in all German hospitals with at least one internal medicine unit and one surgery unit (N = 1224 hospitals) in the year 2008 with a response rate of 45% (N = 551). The regression model explained 17.9% of the variance in perceived clinical risk management. We found that if both requirements for goal-oriented collective action—transformational leadership and social capital—are met, good safety management is more likely. The tentative conclusion is that it takes transformative leaders and cohesive followers together as a social basis to improve safety in hospitals.
A Scoping Review of Technological Approaches to Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Coulby Graham , Clear Adrian , Jones Oliver , Godfrey Alan
Published: June 2020

Indoor environment quality (IEQ) can negatively affect occupant health and wellbeing. Air quality, as well as thermal, visual and auditory conditions, can determine how comfortable occupants feel within buildings. Some can be measured objectively, but many are assessed by interpreting qualitative responses. Continuous monitoring by passive sensors may be useful to identify links between environmental and physiological changes. Few studies localise measurements to an occupant level perhaps due to many environmental monitoring solutions being large and expensive. Traditional models for occupant comfort analysis often exacerbate this by not differentiating between individual building occupants. This scoping review aims to understand IEQ and explore approaches as to how it is measured with various sensing technologies, identifying trends for monitoring occupant health and wellbeing. Twenty-seven studies were reviewed, and more than 60 state-of-the-art and low-cost IEQ sensors identified. Studies were found to focus on the home or workplace, but not both. This review also found how wearable technology could be used to augment IEQ measurements, creating personalised approaches to health and wellbeing. Opportunities exist to make individuals the primary unit of analysis. Future research should explore holistic personalised approaches to health monitoring in buildings that analyse the individual as they move between environments.