bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operando Analysis of Losses in Commercial-Sized Solid Oxide Cells: Methodology Development and Validation
Authors: Staffolani Antunes , Baldinelli Arianna , Bidini Gianni , Nobili Francesco , Barelli Linda
Published: July 2022

The development of decarbonised systems is being fostered by the increasing demand for technological solutions for the energy transition. Solid Oxide Cells are high-efficiency energy conversion systems that are foreseen for commercial development. They exhibit potential power generation and power-to-gas applications, including a reversible operation mode. Long-lasting high performance is essential for guaranteeing the success of the technology; therefore, it is fundamental to provide diagnosis tools at this early stage of development. In this context, operando analysis techniques help detect and identify incipient degradation phenomena to either counteract damage at its origin or correct operando protocols. Frequent switches from the fuel cell to the electrolyser mode add more challenges with respect to durable performance, and deep knowledge of reverse-operation-induced damage is lacking in the scientific and technical literature. Following on from preliminary experience with button cells, in this paper, the authors aim to transfer the methodology to commercial-sized Solid Oxide Cells. On the basis of the experimental evidence collected on planar square cells under dry and wet reactant feed gases, the main contributions to impedance are identified as being charge transfer (f = 103–104 Hz), oxygen surface exchanged and diffusion in bulk LSCF (f = 102–103 Hz), and gas diffusion in the fuel electrode (two peaks, f = 1–100 Hz). The results are validated using the ECM methodology, implementing an LRel(RctQ)GWFLW circuit.
A Review of Ground Source Heat Pump Application for Space Cooling in Southeast Asia
Authors: Ratchawang Sorranat , Chotpantarat Srilert , Chokchai Sasimook , Takashima Isao , Uchida Youhei , Charusiri Punya
Published: July 2022

Ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems have been used worldwide in buildings because of their advantages of highly efficient performance in terms of energy and environment for space cooling and heating; however, cooling demand is predominant in tropical climates. This paper reviews of the GSHP systems applications in Southeast Asia; several applications of GSHP in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Vietnam have been addressed. Experiments were initiated in 2006 in Kamphaengphet; the latest experiment found in the Scopus searching tool is the GSHP simulation in Kuantan in 2019 using EnergyPlus using the ground loop design software. GSHP systems have the potential to be used in Southeast Asia despite the dominance of cooling demand, leading to a thermal imbalance within the subsurface. This imbalance can reduce the performance of the system; however, groundwater flow is considered as a key factor in preventing the effect of thermal distribution owing to GSHP operation. These results suggest that the GSHP has the potential to reduce emissions and electricity consumption within areas having tropical climates, such as Southeast Asia, for sustainability and future generation.
Biodiesel Produced from Propanol and Longer Chain Alcohols—Synthesis and Properties
Authors: Gotovuša Mia , Pucko Ivan , Racar Marko , Faraguna Fabio
Published: July 2022

Biodiesel has established itself as a renewable fuel that is used in transportation worldwide and is partially or in some cases completely replacing conventional fuels. Chemically, biodiesel is a fatty acid monoalkyl ester (FAAE). Generally, the term biodiesel refers to the fatty acid methyl or ethyl esters (FAME or FAEE). Herein, an overview of the research on the synthesis of FAAE in which the alkyl moiety is a C3+ alkyl chain (branched/unbranched) is given. In addition, a comparison of the properties of the aforementioned FAAE with each other, with FAME and FAEE, and with fuel standards is given. The length of the alkyl chain has a major influence on viscosity, while pour point temperatures are generally lower when branched alcohols are used, but the fatty acid part of the molecule also has a major influence. The development of new pathways for the synthesis of higher alcohols from biomass opens a future perspective for the production of long chain FAAE as biofuels, fuel additives, or biolubricants. Due to their properties, FAAEs produced from C3–C5 alcohols have the potential to be used as fuels, while all C3+ FAAEs can be used as valuable bioadditives, and C8+ FAAEs can be used as biolubricants and viscosity improvers.
Direct and Indirect Carbon Emission from Household Consumption Based on LMDI and SDA Model: A Decomposition and Comparison Analysis
Authors: Chen Jingjing , Lin Yangyang , Wang Xiaojun , Mao Bingjing , Peng Lihong
Published: July 2022

Household consumption has become an important field of carbon dioxide emissions. Urban–rural disparity in the household carbon emissions (HCEs) of residents and their influencing factors are relevant to HCE reduction. Taking Fujian as the study area, the LMDI and SDA models were used to analyze the effects of influencing factors for the direct household carbon emissions (DHCEs) and indirect carbon emissions (IHCEs) of urban and rural residents from 2006 to 2018. The HCEs continue to rise, approximately 65% from the IHCEs in 2017, and urban areas occupied 67% in 2018. The gap between urban and rural per capita HCEs is narrowing. In 2017, approximately 75% of urban per capita HCEs came from the IHCEs, while the per capita DHCEs’ occupation exceeded the IHCEs in rural areas. Per capita consumption expenditure has the largest positive effect on the DHCEs and IHCEs in urban and rural areas. With the urbanization process, the inhibition effect of rural DHCEs is larger than the positive effect of the urban DHCEs, while the positive impact on urban areas is more substantial than on rural areas in the IHCEs. Combined with regional differences, urban and rural areas should take “common but differentiated” emission reduction responsibilities.
Study on Induced Voltage and Circulation Current of Metal Layer in Single-Core Cable of High-Speed Railway Power Transmission Line
Authors: Wang Hao , Wu Zhensheng
Published: July 2022

The metal shield and metal armor layers of single-core cables on high-speed railroad power penetration lines are usually grounded by common equipment protectors. This grounding method brings a continuous circulating current between the metal shield and metal armor layer compared to the subequipment protection grounding. In order to quantitatively study the circulating current condition of the through line and its influence on the reliability of the railroad power through line, the induced electric potential and circulating current generation mechanism of the single-core cable of the through line and its influencing factors were firstly analyzed in depth. Then, based on the cross-sectional structure of the single-core cable and the location of the traction network and cable in the roadbed section, a traction power supply model was established and simulated for the interlayer-induced potentials and circulating currents due to the two grounding protection methods under no load, single train operation, and heavy load four-train operation of the line. Finally, three actual sections of the Shanghai–Kunming and Nan–Kunming high-speed railroads in China were selected to collect and analyze the loop flow data with no load and with vehicles passing through, and finally the loop flow law of single-core cable for railroad electric through traffic was derived. The analysis shows that when the metal sheath of a single-core cable is grounded by ordinary equipment, the circulating current generated does not exceed 1% of the core current, which meets the relevant safety standards, but the induced voltage in the case of large loads will exceed 50 V safety voltage.
Burn Severity Assessment Using Sentinel-1 SAR in the Southeast Peruvian Amazon, a Case Study of Madre de Dios
Authors: Alarcon-Aguirre Gabriel , Miranda Fidhel Reynaldo Fabrizzio , Ramos Enciso Dalmiro , Canahuire-Robles Rembrandt , Rodriguez-Achata Liset , Garate-Quispe Jorge
Published: July 2022

Fire is one of the significant drivers of vegetation loss and threat to Amazonian landscapes. It is estimated that fires cause about 30% of deforested areas, so the severity level is an important factor in determining the rate of vegetation recovery. Therefore, the application of remote sensing to detect fires and their severity is fundamental. Radar imagery has an advantage over optical imagery because radar can penetrate clouds, smoke, and rain and can see at night. This research presents algorithms for mapping the severity level of burns based on change detection from Sentinel-1 backscatter data in the southeastern Peruvian Amazon. Absolute, relative, and Radar Forest Degradation Index (RDFI) predictors were used through singular polarization length (dB) patterns (Vertical, Vertical-VV and Horizontal, Horizontal-HH) of vegetation and burned areas. The Composite Burn Index (CBI) determined the algorithms’ accuracy. The burn severity ratios used were estimated to be approximately 40% at the high level, 43% at the moderate level, and 17% at the low level. The validation dataset covers 384 locations representing the main areas affected by fires, showing the absolute and relative predictors of cross-polarization (k = 0.734) and RDFI (k = 0.799) as the most concordant in determining burn severity. Overall, the research determines that Sentinel-1 cross-polarized (VH) data has adequate accuracy for detecting and quantifying burns.
Unboxing Deep Learning Model of Food Delivery Service Reviews Using Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) Technique
Authors: Adak Anirban , Pradhan Biswajeet , Shukla Nagesh , Alamri Abdullah
Published: July 2022

The demand for food delivery services (FDSs) during the COVID-19 crisis has been fuelled by consumers who prefer to order meals online and have it delivered to their door than to wait at a restaurant. Since many restaurants moved online and joined FDSs such as Uber Eats, Menulog, and Deliveroo, customer reviews on internet platforms have become a valuable source of information about a company’s performance. FDS organisations strive to collect customer complaints and effectively utilise the information to identify improvements needed to enhance customer satisfaction. However, only a few customer opinions are addressed because of the large amount of customer feedback data and lack of customer service consultants. Organisations can use artificial intelligence (AI) instead of relying on customer service experts and find solutions on their own to save money as opposed to reading each review. Based on the literature, deep learning (DL) methods have shown remarkable results in obtaining better accuracy when working with large datasets in other domains, but lack explainability in their model. Rapid research on explainable AI (XAI) to explain predictions made by opaque models looks promising but remains to be explored in the FDS domain. This study conducted a sentiment analysis by comparing simple and hybrid DL techniques (LSTM, Bi-LSTM, Bi-GRU-LSTM-CNN) in the FDS domain and explained the predictions using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) and Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (LIME). The DL models were trained and tested on the customer review dataset extracted from the ProductReview website. Results showed that the LSTM, Bi-LSTM and Bi-GRU-LSTM-CNN models achieved an accuracy of 96.07%, 95.85% and 96.33%, respectively. The model should exhibit fewer false negatives because FDS organisations aim to identify and address each and every customer complaint. The LSTM model was chosen over the other two DL models, Bi-LSTM and Bi-GRU-LSTM-CNN, due to its lower rate of false negatives. XAI techniques, such as SHAP and LIME, revealed the feature contribution of the words used towards positive and negative sentiments, which were used to validate the model.
Effects of Culture Conditions on the Performance of Arthrospira platensis and Its Production of Exopolysaccharides
Authors: Li Zihan , Liu Yuhuan , Zhou Ting , Cao Leipeng , Cai Yihui , Wang Yunpu , Cui Xian , Yan Hongbin , Ruan Roger , Zhang Qi
Published: July 2022

Exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Arthrospira platensis (A. platensis) has been widely applied in industry and commerce for its various activities but the accumulation of EPS in culture medium may influence the growth of A. platensis reversely. This work aims to explore the impacts of initial pH, nitrogen source and concentration, phosphate concentration and recycle times of the culture medium on the growth of A. platensis and the secretion of its EPS. The results showed that EPS accumulated with the increase in recycle times of culture medium. The optimal initial pH for the growth of A. platensis was 8.50, and high pH of 11.5 inhibited the growth of biomass while resulting in highest EPS content of 92.87 mg/g DW. Excessive and limited nitrogen (NaNO3 of 25.00 g/L and NaNO3 < 2.50 g/L) and phosphate (K2HPO4 of 5.00 g/L and K2HPO4 < 0.50 g/L) inhibited the biomass production of A. platensis by 1.28–30.77% and 14.29–45.05%, respectively. EPS yield of 97.57 mg/g DW and 40.90 mg/g DW were obtained under NaNO3 of 25.00 g/L and K2HPO4 of 5.00 g/L due to salt stress. These findings are beneficial in providing a theoretical basis for high yield EPS from A. platensis without affecting biomass yield.
Loss of Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) after Retort Sterilization of the EPA-BCAA Fortified Complete Nutrition Drink
Authors: Khoonin Watcharapol , Shantavasinkul Prapimporn Chattranukulchai , Santivarangkna Chalat , Trachootham Dunyaporn
Published: July 2022

Retort sterilization is cost-effective for small-scale production of specialized nutrition products. However, the sensory properties and stability of active ingredients after sterilization remain undetermined. This study aimed to investigate the effect of retort on the existence of functional compounds and the sensory satisfaction of a fortified complete nutrition formula with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and fish oil providing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Changes in EPA and BCAA contents after retort were determined by using LC-MS/MS. Nutrient values, osmolality, rheology and sensory acceptance of the processed fortified and control formulas were compared. After retort, the fortified formula had an increase in all types of BCAAs but 30% loss of EPA (p = 0.001). The fortified formula had slightly higher protein and fiber contents, along with increased osmolality. It had higher viscosity and shear stress, but similar IDDSI level at 0. Among flavors tested, the fortified formula with Japanese rice flavor received the highest satisfaction scores with over 80% sensory acceptance. In conclusion, retort sterilization preserved BCAAs of the functional drink, but the addition of 30% fish oil was required to compensate for the EPA loss. The sterilized fortified formula with Japanese rice flavor was sensory acceptable.
Impact of Non-Saccharomyces Wine Yeast Strains on Improving Healthy Characteristics and the Sensory Profile of Beer in Sequential Fermentation
Authors: Postigo Vanesa , Sanz Paula , García Margarita , Arroyo Teresa
Published: July 2022

The use of non-Saccharomyces yeasts in brewing is a useful tool for developing new products to meet the growing consumer demand for innovative products. Non-Saccharomyces yeasts can be used both in single and in mixed fermentations with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, as they are able to improve the sensory profile of beers, and they can be used to obtain functional beers (with a low ethanol content and melatonin production). The aim of this study was to evaluate this capacity in eight non-Saccharomyces strains isolated from Madrid agriculture. For this purpose, single fermentations were carried out with non-Saccharomyces strains and sequential fermentations with non-Saccharomyces and the commercial strain SafAle S-04. The Wickerhamomyces anomalus strain CLI 1028 was selected in pure culture for brewing beer with a low ethanol content (1.25% (v/v)) for its fruity and phenolic flavours and the absence of wort flavours. The best-evaluated strains in sequential fermentation were CLI 3 (Hanseniaspora vineae) and CLI 457 (Metschnikowia pulcherrima), due to their fruity notes as well as their superior bitterness, body, and balance. Volatile compounds and melatonin production were analysed by GC and HPLC, respectively. The beers were sensory-analysed by a trained panel. The results of the study show the potential of non-Saccharomyces strains in the production of low-alcohol beers, and as a flavour enhancement in sequential fermentation.
The Impact of Vanilla and Lemon Aromas on Sensory Perception in Plant-Based Yogurts Measured with Static and Dynamic Methods
Authors: Greis Maija , Kukkonen Roosa , Lampi Anna-Maija , Seppä Laila , Partanen Riitta , Sandell Mari
Published: July 2022

The application of cross-modal interaction is a potential strategy to tackle the challenges related to poor sensory properties, such as thin mouthfeel, in plant-based yogurts. Thus, we aim to study the influence of aroma compounds possibly congruent with sweetness on the perceived sensory profile. Descriptive analysis and temporal dominance of sensations (n = 10 × 4) with a trained panel were conducted with and without a nose clip. One unflavored sample and samples flavored with either lemon or vanilla aromas were included (vanilla; 0.05%; 0.1%; lemon: 0.025%; 0.05%). Odor intensity, thick, sticky, and melting sensation, sweetness, and grain-like flavor were evaluated on an unstructured 10-cm line scale with anchors and reference samples. The results demonstrate how vanilla and lemon aromas suppressed grain-like flavor and enhanced odor intensity and sweetness. The following order was detected among samples in perceived sweetness intensity: unflavored < lemon < vanilla. The two sessions with and without nose clip differed statistically in sweetness, highlighting that the aromas impacted the perceived sweetness but not the mouthfeel in vanilla samples. The study suggests that congruent aromas could modify the perceived sweetness in plant-based yogurts; however, aroma or perceived sweetness does not impact the mouthfeel in plant-based yogurts. While the odor–taste interaction in such products is evident, the study highlights that aroma compounds alone do not modify mouthfeel.
Investigating the Impact of Dragon Fruit Peel Waste on Starch Digestibility, Pasting, and Thermal Properties of Flours Used in Asia
Authors: Chumroenvidhayakul Siriwan , Thilavech Thavaree , Abeywardena Mahinda , Adisakwattana Sirichai
Published: July 2022

As a by-product of dragon fruit consumption, dragon fruit peel (DFP) was developed into powder as a natural ingredient. Nevertheless, the effect of DFP on the physicochemical properties of flours used in Asian food processing and cooking remains unknown. In this study, starch digestibility, thermal, pasting, and physicochemical properties of DFP and flours (potato, rice, glutinous rice, and wheat) were characterized. It was found that DFP contained 65.2% dietary fiber together with phenolic compounds, betacyanins, and antioxidant activity. The results demonstrated that DFP (from 125 to 500 mg) reduced starch digestibility of flours, rapidly digestible starch, and slowly digestible starch, along with an increased proportion of undigested starch. A marked increase in phenolic compounds, betacyanins, and antioxidant activity occurred when DFP and flour were incubated for 180 min under simulated gastrointestinal digestion. The results indicate that bioactive compounds in DFP were highly bioaccessible and remained intact after digestion. Moreover, DFP exerted a significantly lower gelatinization enthalpy of flours with increasing peak viscosity and setback with decreasing pasting temperature. FTIR confirmed the decreased ratio at 1047/1022 cm−1, indicating the disruption of short-range orders of starch and DFP. These findings would expand the scope of DFP food applications and provide a knowledge basis for developing DFP flour-based products.
The Emancipatory Praxis of Women in Galician Emigration and Exile Theatre in Buenos Aires during the Mid-Decades of the Twentieth Century
Authors: Biscainho-Fernandes Carlos-Caetano
Published: July 2022

Galician theatrical activity in Buenos Aires has traditionally been approached from a text-centric and androcentric perspective, with a strong emphasis on canonical plays such as Os vellos non deben de namorarse and A soldadeira. With the exception of studies by Laura Tato and an issue of Cadernos da Escola Dramática Galega devoted to the Compañía Gallega de Comedias Marujita Villanueva, the dramatic work of Galician women in Buenos Aires has been mostly consigned to the margins or directly overlooked. Only the actresses in Castelao’s Os vellos non deben de namorarse receive even a passing mention. The aim of this article is to highlight the important role of female figures such as Maruxa Boga, Maruxa Villanueva and Mariví Villaverde in Galician dramatic activity in Buenos Aires in the mid-decades of the twentieth century, and to examine the emancipatory activities of some of these women outside the patriarchal confines of their time.
Assessing the Use of Hospital Information Systems (HIS) to Support Decision-Making: A Cross-Sectional Study in Public Hospitals in the Huíla Health Region of Southern Angola
Authors: Sanjuluca Tomas Hambili Paulo , de Almeida Anabela Antunes , Cruz-Correia Ricardo
Published: July 2022

Hospital information systems could be relevant tools to inform hospital managers, support better management decisions in healthcare, and increase efficiency. Nonetheless, hospital managers’ effective use of these systems to support decision-making in Angola is unknown. Our study aimed to analyse the use of hospital information systems as a tool to support decision-making by hospital managers in Huíla, Angola. It was a descriptive, cross-sectional study inducted between July and September 2017 in seven hospitals in Huíla Province, Angola, specifically in the cities of Lubango and Matala. Thirty-six members of the hospital boards filled out a self-questionnaire that consisted of twenty questions based on the following issues: Characterisation of the interviewee’s profile; availability of information in the institution; and quality and usefulness of the available operational information. At least two thirds of the participants reported being unsatisfied or relatively satisfied with each assessed hospital information systems-specific feature. More than 50% have rarely or never used the health information system to support decision-making. Most managers do not use hospital information systems to support management-related decision-making in Angola. Improving the ability of hospital information systems to compute adequate indicators and training for hospital managers could be targets for future interventions to support better management-related decision-making in Angolan healthcare.
In Vitro and In Vivo Performance of Plum (Prunus domestica L.) Pollen from the Anthers Stored at Distinct Temperatures for Different Periods
Authors: Đorđević Milena , Vujović Tatjana , Cerović Radosav , Glišić Ivana , Milošević Nebojša , Marić Slađana , Radičević Sanja , Fotirić Akšić Milica , Meland Mekjell
Published: July 2022

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of different storage periods and temperatures on pollen viability in vitro and in vivo in plum genotypes ‘Valerija’, ‘Čačanska Lepotica’ and ‘Valjevka’. In vitro pollen viability was tested at day 0 (fresh dry pollen) and after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of storage at four different temperatures (4, −20, −80 and −196 °C), and in vivo after 12 months of storage at distinct temperatures. In vitro germination and fluorescein diacetate (FDA) staining methods were used to test pollen viability, while aniline blue staining was used for observing in vivo pollen tube growth. Fresh pollen germination and viability ranged from 42.35 to 63.79% (‘Valjevka’ and ‘Čačanska Lepotica’, respectively) and 54.58 to 62.15%, (‘Valjevka’ and ‘Valerija’, respectively). With storage at 4 °C, pollen viability and germination decreased over the period, with the lowest value after 12 months of storage. Pollen germination and viability for the other storage temperatures (−20, −80 and −196 °C) were higher than 30% by the end of the 12 months. Pollination using pollen stored at 4 °C showed that pollen tube growth mostly ended in the lower part of the style. With the other storage temperatures, pollen tube growth was similar, ranging between 50 and 100% of the pistils with pollen tubes penetrated into the nucellus of the ovule in the genotype ‘Čačanska Lepotica’. The results of these findings will have implications for plum pollen breeding and conservation.
Study on the Mechanism of Rootstock Damage during Clamping in Watermelon Grafting
Authors: Wu Kang , Lou Jianzhong , Li Chen , Luo Wei , Li Congcong , Li Jianping
Published: July 2022

Rootstock has a soft tissue that should be held carefully to avoid mechanical damage. Holding the rootstock stem is a significant factor in the grafting process, with direct consequences on the survival rate of grafting. To analyze the damage mechanism of clamping rootstock, a finite element model of the clamping mechanism was established, and different clamping velocities and silicone rubber thicknesses were then studied in this study using the finite element method (FEM). The density and elasticity modulus of the rootstock stem and silicone rubber were determined experimentally using standard methods. The results show that as the clamping velocity increased, the contact force on the rootstock stem increased, and the clamping velocity should be lower than the critical velocity to reduce the probability of damage occurrence on the stem. The increase in silicone rubber thickness would decrease the force on the stem, while also resulting in the instability of the rootstock clamping. A silicone rubber thickness of 4 mm was confirmed as an appropriate thickness for this device. The simulation results were compared with the experimental results, and the mean error was 7.01% within the allowable range, which indicated that the FEM simulation model was reliable.
Crop Diversification Effects on Soil Aggregation and Aggregate-Associated Carbon and Nitrogen in Short-Term Rainfed Olive Groves under Semiarid Mediterranean Conditions
Authors: González-Rosado Manuel , Parras-Alcántara Luis , Aguilera-Huertas Jesús , Lozano-García Beatriz
Published: July 2022

Soil particle aggregation and their associated carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) content can provide valuable diagnostic indicators of changes in soil properties in response to the implementation of different agricultural management practices. In this sense, there is limited knowledge regarding the impact of intercropping on soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) pools in aggregates. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term effect (4 years) of three crop diversifications in rainfed olive orchards on soil aggregation, SOC and TN concentration and SOC stocks (SOC-S) under semi-arid Mediterranean conditions. Olive orchards were diversified with Crocus sativus (D-S), Vicia sativa and Avena sativa in rotation (D-O) and Lavandula x intermedia (D-L) and compared with monocropping system (CT). Soil samples were collected at two depths (0–10 and 10–30 cm) and analysed for soil aggregate mass, SOC and TN content in aggregate-size fractions obtained by the wet-sieving method. Changes caused by crop diversifications on SOC-S were also determined. Overall, after 4 years, a reduction in aggregation values was observed. However, D-S increased the macroaggregates (>250 μm) percentage, Mean Weigh Diameter values, and Geometric Mean Value in the 0–10 cm. Across treatments, aggregate-associated C in 0–10 cm was higher in the D-S treatment, while in the 10–30 cm soil layer, the greatest values were found in CT. Regarding the SOC-S, after 4 years, significant losses were recorded under CT management in 0–10 cm (−1.21 Mg ha−1) and 10–30 cm (−0.84 Mg ha−1), while D-O and D-L showed similar values to those obtained at the beginning of the study. The highest increases in SOC-S were found in D-S, with an increase of 5.88% in the 0–10 cm and 14.47% in the 10–30 cm. Our results showed the high potential of the diversified cropping system to increase soil stability and SOC sequestration.
Effects of Plant Growth Regulators on Plum (Prunus domestica L.) Grown on Two Rootstocks at Harvest and at the Postharvest Period
Authors: Barać Gordana , Mastilović Jasna , Kevrešan Žarko , Milić Biserka , Kovač Renata , Milović Maja , Kalajdžić Jelena , Bajić Aleksandra , Magazin Nenad , Keserović Zoran
Published: July 2022

Plant growth regulators (PGRs), such as cytokinins (6-benzyladenine; BA) and gibberellins (GAs), are widely used in fruit production. This study focused on the plum cultivar “Čačanska rodna” (P. domestica L.) grafted on vegetative rootstock “WaVit” and generative rootstock Prunus cerasifera, with interstock Prunus spinosa. PGR treatments included 50 mg L−1 and 100 mg L−1 of BA and 200 mg L−1 of gibberellin A3 (GA3) and non-treated control. Pomological characteristics of plum fruits were examined at harvest, while physicochemical properties were analyzed at harvest and after 28 days of cold storage and 4 days of shelf life. GA3 and BA application changed the fruit morphological traits, improved skin strength, and increased carotenoid, anthocyanin and sucrose content while decreasing the titratable acidity at harvest. The beneficial effects of higher sucrose, anthocyanin and carotenoid levels persisted in all PGR-treated fruits after cold storage and shelf life. GA3-treated fruits had firmer flesh, stronger skin and higher total soluble solids (TSS) content, while in BA-treated plums, these effects were rootstock-dependent. The physical properties and chemical composition of plum fruit in the postharvest period suggest beneficial effects of the applied PGR treatments. Moreover, these chemical treatments might have prolonged the beneficial impact on fruit storability, nutritional profile and sensory properties. Based on our results, GA3 preharvest treatment can be included in standard cultivation practices within contemporary production systems of European plums not only to improve fruit quality at harvest but also to improve the storage potential and nutritional value, regardless of the rootstock used.
Influence of Family Environment on the Scientific Fitness Literacy of Preschool and School Children in China: A National Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Pan Xiang , Wang Huan , Wu Dongming , Liu Xinhua , Deng Pengyu , Zhang Yanfeng
Published: July 2022

Scientific fitness literacy (SFL) is a holistic concept based on physical literacy but has a smaller scope and is more specific to exercise and scientific fitness. We developed an instrument to assess SFL and explored the differences and similarities in the effects of the home environment on children’s SFL. Data from a nationwide stratified random sample of children were analyzed using multiple linear regression. SFL scores were significantly lower for preschoolers than for school-age children. The family environment has an impact throughout the preschool and school years, with school-age children’s SFL being less influenced by family members than preschool children; screen time has a negative impact on their SFL but reducing the number of electronic devices and increasing parental physical activity and modeling can alleviate its impact. The economic status of the family is crucial, with sports consumption expenditure and household sports equipment ownership being favourable factors for children’s SFL. Positive parental attitudes and sporting habits have a positive impact on their children’s SFL. The findings of this study can be used to improve children’s SFL in the home environment and to take effective measures to avoid the risk factors.
Global Warming’s Six MTurks: A Secondary Analysis of a US-Based Online Crowdsourcing Market
Authors: Austhof Erika , Brown Heidi E.
Published: July 2022

Using a global warming audience segmentation tool (Six Americas Super Short Survey (SASSY)) as a case study, we consider how public health can use consumer panels and online crowdsourcing markets (OCMs) in research. Through a secondary analysis, we aim to understand how consumer panels and OCMs are similar to or different from each other on demographics and global warming beliefs through SASSY, and how they compare to US Census estimates. With this information, researchers will understand public opinion of global warming in their sample, which is useful for many climate change initiatives. Neither the consumer panel (Ipsos) or OCM sample (MTurk) matched US estimates of population demographics. Both panels achieved similar SASSY segments, showing that even with diverse sampling frames, SASSY is a useful tool for understanding global warming sentiment. Compared to Ipsos, MTurk was younger (more Millennials and Generation X), had higher educational attainment, and lower income. Both panels were majority White, but Ipsos was more diverse than the unweighted MTurk. Ipsos had more respondents from the South whereas MTurk had more respondents from the West. Across the MTurk SASSY segment, there were no significant differences for the majority of demographic characteristics except for age; younger generations were more Alarmed or Concerned, and older generations were more Doubtful and Dismissive. Researchers interested in understanding their sample’s opinions of global warming should use SASSY and consider oversampling in key demographic variables if they intend to achieve a nationally representative and diverse sample.
Improved Aerobic Capacity and Adipokine Profile Together with Weight Loss Improve Glycemic Control without Changes in Skeletal Muscle GLUT-4 Gene Expression in Middle-Aged Subjects with Impaired Glucose Tolerance
Authors: Venojärvi Mika , Lindström Jaana , Aunola Sirkka , Nuutila Pirjo , Atalay Mustafa
Published: July 2022

(1) Objective: The aim of this study was to clarify the role of adipokines in the regulation of glucose metabolism in middle-aged obese subjects with impaired glucose tolerance in response to a long-term exercise and dietary intervention. (2) Methods: Skeletal muscle, plasma and serum samples were examined in 22 subjects from an exercise–diet intervention study aiming to prevent type 2 diabetes. The subjects were further divided into two subgroups (non-responders n = 9 and responders n = 13) based on their achievement in losing at least 3 kg. (3) Results: The two-year exercise–diet intervention reduced leptin levels and increased adiponectin levels in responders; the changes in leptin levels were significantly associated with changes in their weights (r = 0.662, p < 0.01). In responders, insulin sensitivity (Bennett and McAuley index) increased and was associated with changes in maximal oxygen uptake (VO2peak) (r = 0.831, p < 0.010 and r = 0.890, p < 0.01). In addition, the VO2peak and oxidative capacity of skeletal muscle improved in responders, but not in non-responders. However, there were no changes between the two groups in expressions of the glucose transporter protein-4 (GLUT-4) gene or of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-α1 or AMPK-α2 proteins. (4) Conclusions: The exercise–diet intervention decreased serum leptin and increased serum adiponectin concentrations, improved glucose control without affecting GLUT-4 gene expression in the skeletal muscle in responders.
National Implementation of a Group-Based Program Promoting Patient Engagement and Peer Support in the Veterans Health Administration: A Multi-Methods Evaluation
Authors: Drake Connor , Abadi Melissa H. , Batchelder Heather R. , Richard Bonnie O. , Balis Laura E. , Rychener David
Published: July 2022

Evidence-based approaches promoting patient engagement and chronic illness self-management include peer support, shared decision-making, and education. Designed based on these components, Taking Charge of My Life and Health (TCMLH) is a group-based, ‘Whole Person’ care program promoting mental and physical self-care and patient empowerment. Despite evidence of effectiveness, little is known about implementation for TCMLH and similar programs. In this first-of-its-kind, multi-methods evaluation conducted between 2015–2020, we report on implementation strategies and intervention adaptations with a contextual analysis to describe TCMLH translational efforts in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities across the United States. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected via listening sessions with TCMLH facilitators, open-ended survey responses from facilitators, and quarterly reports from clinical implementation sites. We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to analyze, interpret, and organize qualitative findings, and descriptive statistics to analyze quantitative data. Most TCMLH programs (58%) were adapted from the original format, including changes to the modality, duration, or frequency of sessions. Findings suggest these adaptations occurred in response to barriers including space, staffing constraints, and participant recruitment. Overall, findings highlight practical insights for improving the implementation of TCMLH, including recommendations for additional adaptations and tailored implementation strategies to promote its reach.
A Nationwide Natural Experiment of e-Health Implementation during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland: User Satisfaction and the Ease-of-Use of Remote Physician’s Visits
Authors: Duplaga Mariusz
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a considerable increase in the use of e-health applications. Shortly after confirmation of the first case of COVID-19 in Poland, the Ministry of Health allowed for the general use of remote physician’s visits (RPVs) as a substitute for traditional visits to the physician’s office. It was estimated that during the first year of the pandemic, as many as 80% of primary care visits were provided remotely, mainly by phone. This study’s main aim was to assess the use of e-health services in the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the factors related to user satisfaction and positive assessment of the ease-of-use of RPVs were analyzed. The analysis was based on data obtained from a computer-assisted web-based interviewing (CAWI) survey among 2410 adult Internet users in Poland. The questionnaire consisted of 55 items, including a 16-item European Health Literacy Questionnaire, an 8-item e-Health Literacy scale, a set of questions about the use of and experience with e-health services during the pandemic, and items exploring the sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents. Univariate logistic regression models were developed for variables reflecting user satisfaction and the assessment of the ease-of-use of RPVs. The use of RPVs increased during the pandemic by about 200%. Higher health literacy and e-health literacy, older age, higher income, a greater number of e-health services used before the pandemic, and telephone-based remote visits were significantly associated with higher user satisfaction and ease-of-use of RPVs. Respondents using RPVs for renewal of prescriptions were more favorable in assessing satisfaction and ease-of-use. A less positive assessment of satisfaction and ease-of-use was provided by students and vocationally passive persons in comparison to the employed. Finally, the perception of the threat of COVID-19 was associated with higher satisfaction and better assessment of ease-of-use. Persons declaring the intention to be vaccinated against COVID-19 were more likely to be satisfied with remote visits. User satisfaction and the feeling of ease-of-use in the case of remote advice provided by a physician depend on many factors. Significant predictors include selected sociodemographic and economic variables, determinants associated with the perception of the threat of COVID-19, the aims and tools used for the RPVs, and earlier experience with e-health services.
You Have Received More Help than I Did and I Envy You: A Social Comparison Perspective on Receiving Help in the Team
Authors: Han Shaoqin , Zhan Yuanfang , Zhang Lu , Mu Renyan
Published: July 2022

In the current research, we developed and tested a model of how and when upward social comparison of received help influenced an employee’s interpersonal citizenship behavior. Based on social comparison theory, we posited that upward social comparison of received help triggered an employee’s feelings of envy, which in turn had a negative relationship with interpersonal citizenship behavior (ICB). Further, we argued that the effects of upward social comparison of received help on envy differed in the employee’s social comparison orientation. Using data collected in three waves from 411 employees in China, we found that upward social comparison of received help was positively associated with the employee’s feelings of envy while controlling for overall receiving help, which further negatively affected interpersonal citizenship behavior. Moreover, the relationship between the upward social comparison of received help and the employee’s feelings of envy was stronger when employees had high levels of social comparison orientation and further strengthened the indirect relationship between the upward social comparison of received help and the employee’s ICB via envy. Overall, these findings have the potential to extend our knowledge of the adverse effects of receiving help in a team by introducing a social comparison perspective.
Sub-Inhibitory Concentrations of Amoxicillin and Tylosin Affect the Biofilm Formation and Virulence of Streptococcus suis
Authors: Zuo Jing , Fan Qingying , Li Jinpeng , Liu Baobao , Xue Bingqian , Zhang Xiaoling , Yi Li , Wang Yang
Published: July 2022

Streptococcus suis (S. suis) can form a protective biofilm during infection and lead to prolonged disease. Oral antibiotics are often used for treatment in clinical practice, but sub-inhibitory concentration levels often exist due to low oral absorption rate, resulting in disease deterioration. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Amoxicillin and Tylosin on the biofilm formation and virulence of S. suis HA9801 at sub-inhibitory concentration. We first determined that the test groups (1/4MIC Amoxicillin and Tylosin) could significantly increase the amount of biofilm formation without affecting bacterial growth. The LD50 value of the test groups was significantly higher than that of the control group in the mouse infection model. In the mouse infection model, the LD50 value of the experimental group was significantly increased, but the tissue bacterial load was significantly decreased. Further RT-PCR analysis showed that the expression levels of virulence-related genes in the experimental group were significantly reduced. Our study suggests that both Amoxicillin and Tylosin at sub-inhibitory concentrations could enhance the biofilm formation ability of S. suis HA9801 and reduce its virulence to form persistent infection.
Exploring Influential Factors Affecting the Severity of Urban Expressway Collisions: A Study Based on Collision Data
Authors: Wang Kun , Feng Xiaoyuan , Li Hongbo , Ren Yilong
Published: July 2022

When traffic collisions occur on urban expressways, the consequences, including injuries, the loss of lives, and damage to properties, are more serious. However, the existing research on the severity of expressway traffic collisions has not been deeply explored. The purpose of this research was to investigate how various factors affect the severity of urban expressway collisions. The severity of urban expressway collisions was set as the dependent variable, which could be divided into three categories: slight collisions, severe collisions, and fatal collisions. Ten variables, including individual characteristics, collision characteristics, and road environment conditions, were selected as independent factors. Based on 975 valid urban expressway collisions, an ordered logistic regression model was established to evaluate the impacts of influence factors on the severity of these crashes. The results show that gender, collision modality, road pavement conditions, road surface conditions, and visibility are significant factors that affect the severity of urban expressway collisions. Females were more likely to be involved in more severe urban expressway collisions than males. For collisions involving pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles, the risk of more severe injury was 7.508 times higher than that associated with vehicle–vehicle collisions. The probability of more severe collisions on urban expressways with poor pavement conditions and wet surface conditions is greater than that on urban expressways with good pavement conditions and dry surface conditions. In addition, as visibility increases, the probability of more severe collisions on urban expressways gradually decreases. These results provide more effective strategies to reduce casualties as a result of urban expressway collisions.
Mifepristone (RU-486®) as a Schedule IV Controlled Drug—Implications for a Misleading Drug Policy on Women’s Health Care
Authors: Hsieh Yi-Ping , Wang Yun-Ju , Feng Ling-Yi , Wu Li-Tzy , Li Jih-Heng
Published: July 2022

Background: Mifepristone (RU-486) has been approved for abortion in Taiwan since 2000. Mifepristone was the first non-addictive medicine to be classified as a schedule IV controlled drug. As a case of the “misuse” of “misuse of drugs laws,” the policy and consequences of mifepristone-assisted abortion for pregnant women could be compared with those of illicit drug use for drug addicts. Methods: The rule-making process of mifepristone regulation was analyzed from various aspects of legitimacy, social stigma, women’s human rights, and access to health care. Results and Discussion: The restriction policy on mifepristone regulation in Taiwan has raised concerns over the legitimacy of listing a non-addictive substance as a controlled drug, which may produce stigma and negatively affect women’s reproductive and privacy rights. Such a restriction policy and social stigma may lead to the unwillingness of pregnant women to utilize safe abortion services. Under the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, the US FDA’s action on mifepristone prescription and dispensing reminds us it is time to consider a change of policy. Conclusions: Listing mifepristone as a controlled drug could impede the acceptability and accessibility of safe mifepristone use and violates women’s right to health care.