bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Hybrid Simulation Framework for the Production Planning Process in the Atlantic Salmon Supply Chain
Authors: Vempiliyath Thomas , Thakur Maitri , Hargaden Vincent
Published: September 2021

The farmed salmon supply chain has a highly complex and integrated structure, where activities occur both in the sea and on land. Due to this complexity, the supply chain needs appropriate decision-support tools to aid the production planning process, which capture the material flows, information flows and behaviours of the decision makers in the chain. This paper proposes a hybrid simulation framework for production planning using the case of the Norwegian Atlantic salmon supply chain. This hybrid simulation comprises agent-based modelling (ABM) to capture the autonomous and interacting decision making behaviour of the supply chain actors, while discrete-event simulation (DES) is employed to model the various production processes within the chain. The simulation is implemented using AnyLogic™ version 8.0 simulation software, using a case study from the Norwegian farmed salmon sector. The proposed modelling framework provides a deeper understanding of the activities in the salmon supply chain, thereby enabling improved decision making.
Mitigating Potassium Leaching from Muriate of Potash in a Tropical Peat Soil Using Clinoptilolite Zeolite, Forest Litter Compost, and Chicken Litter Biochar
Authors: Krishnan Kavinraj , Ngerong Audrey Awing , Ahim Karen , Ahmed Osumanu Haruna , Ali Maru , Omar Latifah , Musah Adiza Alhassan
Published: September 2021

Using muriate of potash (MOP) as a source of potassium (K) is a cost-effective method for crop production in tropical peat soils. However, exchangeable K commonly leaches from tropical peat soils because of high rainfall and a lack of clay to retain this cation. Potassium retention as exchangeable K could inhibit K loss through leaching to increase K availability. Clinoptilolite zeolite (CZ), forest litter compost (FLC), and chicken litter biochar (CLB) can be used to retain K from MOP in tropical peat soils for crop use because of the high affinity of CZ, FLC, and CLB for K ions. These approaches can be used as innovative and sustainable alternatives for the frequently used lime (CaCO3). However, information on using CZ, FLC, and CLB for MOP K retention is limited. Thus, CZ, FLC, and CLB were tested in a leaching study to determine their effects on MOP K retention in tropical peat soil. The use of CZ and FLC at rates of 100% and 75% of the recommended rate for pineapple cultivation (a commonly grown fruit crop in tropical peat soils in Malaysia) improved the K availability, pH, and CEC of the peat soil because of the high CEC of CZ and the humic substances (humic acids, fulvic acids, and humin) of FLC, which have a high affinity for K ions. The CLB did not improve K retention because of the competition between K, Ca, Mg, and Na ions, which are inherently high in this soil amendment. Instead of liming, which only replaces a few of the leached cations, such as calcium, the results of this study suggest an alternative method of retaining peat cations, such as K, that reduce peat acidity. This alternative method of retaining peat soil cations, especially K ions, is a practical and sustainable approach for improving peat soil productivity.
First Report of Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Virulence Gene Characterization Associated with Staphylococcus aureus Carriage in Healthy Camels from Tunisia
Authors: Ben Chehida Faten , Gharsa Haythem , Tombari Wafa , Selmi Rachid , Khaldi Sana , Daaloul Monia , Ben Slama Karim , Messadi Lilia
Published: September 2021

A total of 318 nasal and rectal swabs were collected from 159 apparently healthy camels (Camelus dromedarius) randomly selected from five regions in southern and central Tunisia and screened for Staphylococcus aureus carriage. Staphylococcus spp. were recovered from 152 of 159 camels studied (95.6%) and in total 258 swabs (81%) were positive. Among these isolates, 16 were coagulase positive Staphylococcus (CoPS) (6.2%) and were characterized by biochemical and molecular tests as S. aureus. These were isolated from 14 camels (8.8%) with co-carriage in nasal and rectal mucosa by two camels. All S. aureus isolates recovered were methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and were characterized by spa typing and PFGE. Three different spa types were recovered: t729, t4013 and a spa type newly registered as t19687, which was the most common. PFGE analysis revealed seven different patterns and these were characterized by MLST, which revealed five different sequence types (ST6, ST88, ST3583 and two new sequences, ST6504 and ST6506). All isolates harbored different virulence genes, including hld, encoding delta hemolysin; lukE–lukD, encoding bicomponent leukotoxin LukE–LukD; the clfB gene, encoding clumping factor B; the laminin gene, encoding laminin-binding protein; and cap8, encoding capsule type 8. Fifteen isolates harbored hemolysin beta (hlb) and fourteen encoded hemolysin alpha (hla) and hemolysin G2 (hlgv). Adhesin factors, including clfA and fnbB, were detected in five and four isolates respectively. Binding proteins, including collagen (cbp) and elastin-binding protein (ebp), were detected in two S. aureus isolates while fibrinogen-binding protein (fib) was identified in four isolates. This study provides the first set of genotyping data on the population structure and presence of toxin genes of S. aureus strains in Tunisian camels.
First Report of Anthelmintic Resistance in Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Goats in Romania
Authors: Potârniche Adrian Valentin , Mickiewicz Marcin , Olah Diana , Cerbu Constantin , Spînu Marina , Hari Attila , Györke Adriana , Moroz Agata , Czopowicz Michał , Várady Marián , Kaba Jarosław
Published: September 2021

Currently, there are three classes of anthelmintics most commonly used in small ruminants: the benzimidazoles (BZs), macrocyclic lactones (MLs) and cholinergic agonists (especially levamisole; LEV). The widespread use of those products has led to the emergence of drug-resistant parasite strains which represents a serious threat to the livestock industry. In the present study, we describe for the first time a case of resistance to anthelmintics in goats in Romania. The study was carried out in 2021 in a dairy goat herd from the Transylvania region. Two types of diagnostic methods were used to confirm anthelmintic resistance (AR). First, the faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), an in vivo AR diagnostic method, was used to evaluate the efficacy of eprinomectin (EPM). The results of this test were analysed applying two different calculative methods that are used only in treated animals (without the control group). Furthermore, two in vitro methods were used: the egg hatch test (EHT) for the detection of resistance to BZs, and the larval development test (LDT) for detection of resistance to all three classes of anthelmintics. The results of FECRT indicate the resistance of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) to EPM in both calculative methods (FECR1 = −88% and FECR2 = −202%). In addition, the results obtained for ivermectin aglycone (IVM-AG) in LDT also indicate resistance to drugs from MLs group, especially avermectins. Similarly, the results of in vitro methods (EHT and LDT) indicate resistance to BZs in this herd. LEV was the only drug that stopped the development of L3 larvae 100% (LDT). H. contortus was the only nematode species found in coproculture after EPM treatment. Furthermore, H. contotus L3 larvae was the only species found in the wells with the highest concentrations of thiabendazole (TBZ) and IVM-AG in LDT. This suggests that resistance to both BZs and MLs was present for that species.
Antibacterial Effect of Sodium Hypochlorite and EDTA in Combination with High-Purity Nisin on an Endodontic-like Biofilm Model
Authors: Pinheiro Ericka T. , Karygianni Lamprini , Attin Thomas , Thurnheer Thomas
Published: September 2021

Antimicrobial peptides have been proposed as antibiofilm agents. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of endodontic irrigants combined or not with the antimicrobial peptide nisin against an endodontic biofilm model composed of eleven bacterial species. Biofilms were grown on hydroxyapatite discs for 3, 15 and 21 days and treated with 1.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) or 17% EDTA followed by high-purity nisin (nisin ZP) or saline for 5 min each. Differences between groups were tested by two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparisons test (p < 0.05). Treatment with 1.5% NaOCl completely eliminated 3-d and 15-d biofilms but did not eradicate 21-d biofilms. Treatment with 1.5% NaOCl and 17% EDTA was equally effective against 21-d biofilms, showing 5-log and 4-log cell reduction, respectively, compared to the untreated control (9 log10, p < 0.05). No significant difference was found between 1.5% NaOCl + nisin ZP and 1.5% NaOCl in 21-d biofilms (p > 0.05). Likewise, no significant difference was found between 17% EDTA + nisin ZP and 17% EDTA treatments (p > 0.05). In conclusion, 1.5% NaOCl or 17% EDTA were effective strategies to combat mature biofilms. The additional use of nisin did not improve the activity of conventional irrigants against multispecies biofilms.
Antibiotic-Related Adverse Drug Reactions in Patients Treated on the Dermatology Ward of Medical University of Gdańsk
Authors: Sokolewicz Ewa Maria , Rogowska Martyna , Lewandowski Miłosz , Puchowska Monika , Piechota Dorota , Barańska-Rybak Wioletta
Published: September 2021

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are unexpected reactions to a medication administered in a correct way at a standard dose. Drug-induced skin reactions account for 60–70% of all ADRs. The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of antibiotic-related dermatological ADR in patients treated in the department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology of the University Clinical Center in Gdańsk, Poland, in the years 2004–2021. A retrospective analysis of patients’ medical files was conducted in order to identify cases of ADR connected with the use of antibiotics, yielding 84 cases. The most common group of antibiotics were β-lactam, causing ADR in 47 patients. β-lactam antibiotics in our study included amoxicillin, alone and combined with clavulanic acid, and cephalosporins, affecting 22, 18 and 7 patients, respectively. In conclusion, β-lactam antibiotics showed the highest prevalence among antibiotic-induced skin reactions. They accounted for 15% of cases of all dermatological drug reactions and 55% of those caused by antibiotics. Especially amoxicillin, prescribed as a single drug or in combination with clavulanic acid, was commonly the culprit. Due to its wide use in the hospital and outpatient clinic, these adverse reactions have to be kept in mind by both hospital staff and general practitioners.
Alpha-Ketoglutarate: A Potential Inner Mitochondrial and Cytosolic Protector against Peroxynitrite and Peroxynitrite-Induced Nitration?
Authors: Greilberger Joachim , Greilberger Michaela , Wintersteiger Reinhold , Zangger Klaus , Herwig Ralf
Published: September 2021

The generation of peroxynitrite (ONOO−) is associated with several diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, neurodegeneration, cancer, inflammation, and sepsis. Alpha-ketoglutarate (αKG) is a known potential highly antioxidative agent for radical oxidative species such as peroxides. The question arises as to whether αKG is also a potential scavenger of ONOO− and a potential protector against ONOO−-mediated nitration of proteins. NMR studies of 1 mM αKG in 100 mM phosphate-buffered saline at pH 7.4 and pH 6.0 were carried out in the presence or absence of a final concentration of 2 mM ONOO−. An ONOO−–luminol-induced chemiluminescence reaction was used to measure the scavenging function of several concentrations of αKG; quantification of αKG was performed via spectrophotometric enzymatic assay of αKG in the absence or presence of 0, 1, or 2 mM ONOO−. The nitration of tyrosine residues on proteins was measured on ONOO−-treated bovine serum albumin (BSA) in the presence or absence of 0–24 mM αKG by an ELISA technique using a specific anti-IgG against nitro-tyrosine. The addition of ONOO− to αKG led to the formation of succinic acid and nitrite at pH 7.0, but not at pH 6.0, as αKG was stable against ONOO−. The absorbance of enzymatically estimated αKG at the time point of 30 min was significantly lower in favour of ONOO− (1 mM: 0.21 ± 0.03, 2 mM: 0.12 ± 0.05 vs. 0 mM: 0.32 ± 0.02; p < 0.001). The luminol technique showed an inverse logarithmic correlation of the ONOO− and αKG concentrations (y = −2 × 105 ln(x) + 1 × 106; r2 = 0.99). The usage of 4 mM αKG showed a significant reduction by nearly half in the chemiluminescence signal (284,456 ± 29,293 cps, p < 0.001) compared to the control (474,401 ± 18,259); for 20 and 200 mM αKG, there were further reductions to 163,546 ± 26,196 cps (p < 0.001) and 12,658 ± 1928 cps (p < 0.001). Nitrated tyrosine residues were estimated using the ELISA technique. A negative linear correlation was obtained by estimating nitrated tyrosine residues in the presence of αKG (r2 = 0.94): a reduction by half of nitrated tyrosine was estimated using 12 mM αKG compared to the control (326.1 ± 39.6 nmol vs. 844.5 ± 128.4 nmol; p < 0.001).
Ensuring Data Integrity in Databases with the Universal Basis of Relations
Authors: Yesin Vitalii , Karpinski Mikolaj , Yesina Maryna , Vilihura Vladyslav , Warwas Kornel
Published: September 2021

The objective of the paper was to reveal the main techniques and means of ensuring the integrity of data and persistent stored database modules implemented in accordance with the recommendations of the Clark–Wilson model as a methodological basis for building a system that ensures integrity. The considered database was built according to the schema with the universal basis of relations. The mechanisms developed in the process of researching the problem of ensuring the integrity of the data and programs of such a database were based on the provisions of the relational database theory, the Row Level Security technology, the potential of the modern blockchain model, and the capabilities of the database management system on the platform of which databases with the universal basis of relations are implemented. The implementation of the proposed techniques and means, controlling the integrity of the database of stored elements, prevents their unauthorized modification by authorized subjects and hinders the introduction of changes by unauthorized subjects. As a result, the stored data and programs remain correct, unaltered, undistorted, and preserved. This means that databases built based on a schema with the universal basis of relations and supported by such mechanisms are protected in terms of integrity.
Performance Analysis of Fully Actuated Multirotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Configurations with Passively Tilted Rotors
Authors: Kotarski Denis , Piljek Petar , Kasać Josip , Majetić Dubravko
Published: September 2021

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) nowadays represent an interesting tool capable of performing various missions. The multirotor type of UAV is proven to be a potential solution in missions that require precise movements, such as environmental objects manipulation. In this paper, a procedure for the performance analysis of fully actuated multirotor UAV configurations is proposed. For this purpose, a configuration is described by a control allocation scheme and implemented in the software package which enables the analysis and control implementation of a real system. The parameter analysis of the passively tilted multirotor configurations is performed based on the characteristics of the electric propulsion units, and the allocation of propulsion forces is graphically shown. The results of the proposed procedure provide an insight into the capabilities of configurations and can ultimately be used to select the propulsion system components and parameters according to the requirements and constraints associated with the specific mission profile. An experimental aircraft was built, and custom firmware was created, which enable us to experimentally prove the feasibility of fully actuated and passively tilted configurations.
Static Balancing Ability and Lower Body Kinematics Examination of Hungarian Folk Dancers: A Pilot Study Investigating the “Kalocsai Mars” Dance Sequence
Authors: Molnár Cecília , Pálya Zsófia , Kiss Rita M.
Published: September 2021

Folk dance is a collection of traditional dances that requires years of practicing to perform correctly. The aim of the present study was to develop a complex biomechanical measurement procedure that investigated Hungarian folk dancers’ balancing ability and lower body kinematics through a dance movement called “Kalocsai mars”. Therefore, 11 dancers’ motion (5 female and 6 male; age: 20.5 ± 2.5 years; height: 173.82 ± 7.82 cm; weight: 64.77 ± 8.67 kg) was recorded with an optical-based motion capture system and force platforms simultaneously. Before and after the dancing session, static balancing tests were performed, examining bipedal stance with eyes opened and closed conditions. The ANOVA results showed that the values of the range of motions of the knee joint flexion-extension angles and hip flexion averaged for sessions increased significantly (p=0.044, p=0.003, p=0.005) during the dancing sessions. The deviation in the joint angle was greater in the nondominant legs, suggesting that the nondominant side requires more attention to execute the dance steps correctly. The results of the balance tests showed that the oscillation in the posterior direction increased significantly after dancing (p=0.023). In comparison, the visual feedback had no significant effect on the dancers’ balancing ability.
Exploring the Gaze Behavior of Tennis Players with Different Skill Levels When Receiving Serves through Eye Movement Information
Authors: Lin Yen-Nan , Wang Jun , Su Yu , Wang I-Lin
Published: September 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore the gaze behavior of tennis players with different skill levels when receiving serves through eye movement information. Methods: The skill level was divided into group A (experts, with more than 10 years of playing experience) and group B (novices, with less than 2 years of playing experience). We compared the differences in gaze behavior between groups A and B at the head-shoulder, trunk-hips, arm-hand, leg-foot, racket, ball, and racket-ball contact area seven positions using the Eye-gaze Response Interface Computer Aid (ERICA) device. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA. Results: Compared with the novices, the experts have more gaze time in the head–shoulders, rack, and ball when serving forehand (p < 0.01). The experts also have more gaze time on the head–shoulders, trunk–hips, racket, ball, and racket–ball contact area when serving backhand (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Expert athletes have a longer stare time for a specific position, which mainly determines the direction of the ball. Tennis coaches can increase the gaze time for these four positions and improve tennis players’ ability to predict the direction of the ball.
Microstructure Evaluation and Thermal–Mechanical Properties of ABS Matrix Composite Filament Reinforced with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes by a Single Screw Extruder for FDM 3D Printing
Authors: Le Thai-Hung , Le Van-Son , Dang Quoc-Khanh , Nguyen Minh-Thuyet , Le Trung-Kien , Bui Ngoc-Tam
Published: September 2021

This paper reports the synthesis of a new printable ABS–MWCNT composite filament, for use in fused deposition modeling (FDM), using an extrusion technique. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were the initial materials used for fabricating the filaments. The MWCNTs were dispersed in ABS resin, then extruded through a single-shaft extruder in filament form, with MWCNT contents of 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 3% or 4% by weight. After extrusion, the diameter of the filaments was about 1.75 mm, making them appropriate for FDM. The as-synthesized filaments were then used in FDM to print out samples, on which tensile tests and other analyses were carried out. The results demonstrate that the sample with 2% MWCNTs had the highest strength value, 44.57 MPa, comprising a 42% increase over that of the pure ABS sample. The morphology and dispersion of MWCNTs in the composite were observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), demonstrating the uniform distribution of MWCNTs in the ABS matrix. The thermal behavior results indicated no significant change in the ABS structure; however, the melt flow index of the filaments decreased with an increase in the MWCNT content.
A Novel UCP Model Based on Artificial Neural Networks and Orthogonal Arrays
Authors: Rankovic Nevena , Rankovic Dragica , Ivanovic Mirjana , Lazic Ljubomir
Published: September 2021

Adequate estimation is a crucial factor for the implementation of software projects within set customer requirements. The use of Case Point Analysis (UCP) is the latest and most accurate method for estimating the effort and cost of realizing software products. This paper will present a new, improved UCP model constructed based on two different artificial neural network (ANN) architectures based on Taguchi Orthogonal Vector Plans. ANNs are an exceptional artificial intelligence tool that have been proven to be reliable and stable in this area of software engineering. The Taguchi method of Orthogonal Vector Plans is an optimization method that reduces the number of iterations required, which significantly shortens estimation time. The goal is to construct models that give a minimum magnitude relative error (MRE) value concerning previous approaches and techniques. A minimum number of iterations (less than six) and a minimum value of MMRE (less than 10%) have been achieved. The obtained results significantly improve the accuracy and reliability of estimating the effort and cost involved in the implementation of software projects.
Research on the Inertial Migration Characteristics of Bi-Disperse Particles in Channel Flow
Authors: Chen Dongmei , Lin Jianzhong , Hu Xiao
Published: September 2021

The inertial focusing effect of particles in microchannels shows application potential in engineering practice. In order to study the mechanism of inertial migration of particles with different scales, the motion and distribution of two particles in Poiseuille flow are studied by the lattice Boltzmann method. The effects of particle size ratio, Reynolds number, and blocking rate on particle inertial migration are analyzed. The results show that, at a high blocking rate, after the same scale particles are released at the same height of the channel, the spacing between the two particles increases monotonically, and the change in the initial spacing has little effect on the final spacing of inertial migration. For two different size particles, when the smaller particle is downstream, the particle spacing will always increase and cannot remain stable. When the larger particle is downstream, the particle spacing increases firstly and then decreases, and finally tends to be stable.
Indoor and Outdoor Performance of an Enhanced Photovoltaic Panel through Graphene/Fins/Phase Change Materials
Authors: Colarossi Daniele , Principi Paolo
Published: September 2021

The operative temperature of a photovoltaic cell influences the electric conversion yield. This can be enhanced by cooling the panel. Among the studied solutions, phase change materials (PCM) exploit latent heat and absorb a large amount of energy at a nearly constant temperature. PCMs suffer from a low thermal conductivity. Under these premises the paper presents a hybrid graphene/fins/PCM cooling system to maximize efficiency gains and thermal recovery. An indoor laboratory characterization, under a solar simulator, compares the proposed model with a reference one (an identical, simple PV module) under fixed environmental conditions. Outdoor tests investigate the performances of the two systems under natural conditions. Indoor results show that the front temperature of the proposed PCM integrated module is averagely 6 °C less, with a peak of 8 °C, than the reference case. This means an increase in the electric yield of about 3%. Outdoor investigations prove that, when the PCM is solid and during the melting phase, the proposed system is averagely 1.12 °C and 4.87 °C colder than the reference case, respectively. The thermal efficiency is 30% and 65%, respectively. Once the melting process is completed, the performance becomes worse, and the hybrid panel is almost 3 °C warmer than the simple panel.
Kefir Culture-Mediated Fermentation to Improve Phenolic-Linked Antioxidant, Anti-Hyperglycemic and Human Gut Health Benefits in Sprouted Food Barley
Authors: Ramakrishna Ramnarain , Sarkar Dipayan , Dogramaci Munevver , Shetty Kalidas
Published: September 2021

The bioprocessing strategy is an effective approach to improve bioavailability and stability of bioactive compounds for designing functional foods and ingredients. In this study, food barley was bio-transformed to improve functional bioactives by sprouting, coupled with beneficial lactic acid bacteria (LAB)-based fermentation. Dairy Kefir culture with mixed beneficial LAB strains was targeted to ferment aqueous slurries of sprouted hulless food barley flour (unpigmented, purple, and black barley) for 72 h, and modulation of phenolic-linked antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic functionalities were evaluated using in vitro assay models. The biochemical parameters analyzed were total soluble phenolic (TSP) content, profile of phenolic compounds, total antioxidant activity, and anti-hyperglycemic property-relevant α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme inhibitory activities. Furthermore, human gut health benefits of relevant properties of fermented slurries of barley flour were also evaluated based on growth of Kefir culture and subsequent determination of anti-bacterial potential against pathogenic human ulcer causing bacteria Helicobacter pylori. Kefir culture-mediated fermentation of 48-h sprouted barley flours improved the TSP content and associated antioxidant and anti-hyperglycemic functionalities. Additionally, anti-bacterial potential against H. pylori and sustaining active growth of viable LAB cells above the minimum level required for probiotic activity were also observed in fermented food barley flour slurries.
Preliminary Design Proposals for Dovetail Wood Board Elements in Multi-Story Building Construction
Authors: Ilgın Hüseyin Emre , Karjalainen Markku
Published: September 2021

Adhesives and metal fasteners play important roles in the composition and connections of engineered wood products (EWPs) such as cross-laminated timber and glue-laminated timber in the building construction industry. However, due to their petroleum-based nature, adhesives can cause toxic gas emissions, while metal fasteners compromise the end-of-life disposal and reusability of EWPs. These issues adversely affect the sustainable material properties of EWPs. Numerous studies have been conducted in the literature on the technological, ecological, social, and economic aspects of EWPs in construction with different construction solutions, but no studies have been conducted to evaluate the technical performance of dovetail wood board elements (DWBE) in multi-story or tall building construction. This study focuses on adhesive- and metal fastener-free DWBE as sustainable material alternatives for ecologically sensitive engineering solutions. Various preliminary design proposals are presented for DWBE using architectural modeling programs as an environmentally friendly approach intended for use in the timber construction industry. The research findings are based on a theoretical approach that has not yet been practically tested but is proposed considering existing construction practices that need further investigation, including technical performance tests. It is believed that this paper will contribute to the promotion and diffusion of DWBE for more diverse and innovative architectural and structural applications, particularly in multi-story timber building construction, as one of the key tools in tackling climate change challenges.
Creating Smart Cities: A Review for Holistic Approach
Authors: Rozario Sophia Diana , Venkatraman Sitalakshmi , Marimuthu Malliga , Khaksar Seyed Mohammad Sadegh , Subramani Gopi
Published: September 2021

With the rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) into urban people’s everyday walk of life, the functions of smart cities are fast approaching to be embedded in every step of people’s life. Despite the concept of smart cities founded in the late 1990s, there has been limited growth until recent popularity due to the advancements of IoTs. However, there are many challenges, predominantly people-centric, that require attention for the realisation of smart cities and expected real-life success. In this paper, we intend to investigate the state-of-the-art focus of smart cities from three angles: infrastructure engineering, information technology and people-centric management. We adopt a mixed-methods analysis of currently published literature on the topic of smart cities. Our study attempts to draw attention to the need for developing smart cities with a holistic approach involving multiple perspectives rather than a siloed emphasis on technology alone. We highlight that the fields of specialisations such as information technology and infrastructure engineering in contributing to smart cities need a cross-domain holistic approach of managing people-centric service requirements for improving consumer satisfaction and sustainability.
Source Apportionment and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in PM2.5 in Handan: A Typical Heavily Polluted City in North China
Authors: Cai Angzu , Zhang Haixia , Wang Litao , Wang Qing , Wu Xiaoqi
Published: September 2021

In order to determine the pollution sources and human health risks of metal elements in PM2.5, samples were collected by a large flow particulate matter sampler in the four seasons in 2013, 2015, and 2017 (January, April, July, and October). The mass concentrations of 10 metals (Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb) were analyzed. The sources of heavy metals were identified by Unmix, and the potential non-carcinogenic/carcinogenic risk was evaluated. The influences of local and regional sources were also explored during the high-carcinogenic risk period (HCRP). The wind field and 72 h backward trajectories were performed to identify the potential local and regional sources in HCRP. The results showed that the average annual concentrations of PM2.5 in the urban area of Handan city were 105.14, 91.18, and 65.85 μg/m3 in 2013, 2015, and 2017, respectively. The average daily concentrations of the metals in PM2.5 in January were higher than that of April, July, and October. The average mass concentrations of the 10 heavy metal elements in PM2.5 were 698.26, 486.92, and 456.94 ng·m−3 in 2013, 2015, and 2017, respectively. The main sources of the metals in PM2.5 were soil dust sources, vehicular emissions, coal burning, and industrial activities. The carcinogenic risks of Cr and As were above 1 × 10−6 over the three years. Wind direction analysis showed that the potential local sources were heavy industry enterprises and the economic development zone. The backward trajectory analysis indicated that PM2.5 long transported from Shandong, Henan, and the surrounding cities of Handan had quite an impact on the heavy metals contained in the atmosphere of the studied area. The health risk assessment results demonstrated that the trend for non-carcinogenic risk declined, and there was no non-carcinogenic risk in 2017. However, the carcinogenic risk levels were high over the three years, particularly in January.
Comparative Analysis of the Environmental Performance of Delivery Routes in the City Center and Peri-Urban Area of Madrid
Authors: Boggio-Marzet Alessandra , Monzón Andrés , Luque-Rodríguez Pablo , Álvarez-Mántaras Daniel
Published: September 2021

Cities are experiencing a process of suburbanization and last-mile delivery has grown, worsening traffic congestion, pollutant emissions, and citizens’ quality of life. Based on a real-life case study, this research compares the environmental performance of different delivery routes carried out by Diesel Light-Duty Vehicles (LDV) according to delivery area, city center or peri-urban. Some 242 delivery routes performed by thirteen drivers were recorded for one month, including instantaneous GPS position, speed, and other parameters (7262 km travelled). Four different delivery routes typologies were compared, and the drag function of the vehicles was characterized. It enabled calibration and modelling dynamics to calculate fuel consumption and pollutant emissions according to delivery routes. The results show that pedestrian crossings, traffic lights, and traffic congestion reduce the average operating speed by up to 57% in the city center and consequently overall energy efficiency. Our results highlight the urgency of replacing diesel LDV for deliveries in the city center with no-motorized transport modes and of implementing intermodality to cover deliveries in residential peri-urban areas. Due to low speeds and frequent start-stops, the efficiency of vehicles in these areas is reduced to a minimum and pollutant emissions increase. The outputs set a basis for recommendations for using LDV only for delivery routes with less traffic interruptions and foster intermodal solutions.
Observed Relationship between Ozone and Temperature for Urban Nonattainment Areas in the United States
Authors: Ninneman Matthew , Jaffe Daniel
Published: September 2021

This study examined the observed relationship between ozone (O3) and temperature using data from 1995 to 2020 at 20 cities across the United States (U.S.) that exceed the O3 National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS). The median slope of the O3 versus temperature relationship decreased from 2.8 to 1.5 parts per billion per degrees Celsius (ppb °C−1) in the eastern U.S., 2.2 to 1.3 ppb °C−1 in the midwestern U.S., and 1.7 to 1.1 ppb °C−1 in the western U.S. O3 in the eastern and midwestern U.S. has become less correlated with temperature due to emission controls. In the western U.S., O3 concentrations have declined more slowly and the correlation between O3 and temperature has changed negligibly due to the effects of high background O3 and wildfire smoke. This implies that meeting the O3 NAAQS in the western U.S. will be more challenging compared with other parts of the country.
Rayleigh Lidar Observations and Comparisons with TIMED/SABER of Typical Case Studies in Beijing (40.5° N, 116.2° E), China
Authors: Zou Xu , Yang Guotao , Chen Linxiang , Wang Jihong , Du Lifang
Published: September 2021

Based on 139 nights of observational data of the Rayleigh lidar site in Beijing, China (40.5° N, 116.2° E), typical lower MIL cases and their temperature inversion evolution process were reported and compared with the SABER data from the same time. Meanwhile, the seasonal distribution of lower MIL cases over North China was also statistically analyzed. The average inversion temperature of the low MIL is 23.4 K, and the average layer thickness is 4.78 km with an average MIL bottom altitude of 68.2 km. Meanwhile, 65% of the MIL propagates vertically, most of which goes downward. These results show the temperature behavior properties of the lower MIL over North China, which may be helpful for us to further understand middle atmosphere chemical and dynamics processes.
Reinitiation and Subsequent Discontinuation of Antiplatelet Treatment in Nonpersistent Older Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Wawruch Martin , Murin Jan , Tesar Tomas , Paduchova Martina , Petrova Miriam , Celovska Denisa , Havelkova Beata , Trnka Michal , Aarnio Emma
Published: September 2021

The successful treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) depends on adequate adherence to medications including antiplatelet agents. The aims of this study were (a) to identify the proportion of nonpersistent patients who reinitiated antiplatelet therapy and how many of them discontinued therapy after reinitiation, and (b) to identify patient- and medication-related characteristics associated with the likelihood of reinitiation and discontinuation among reinitiators. The analysis of reinitiation was conducted on 3032 nonpersistent users of antiplatelet agents aged ≥65 years, with PAD newly diagnosed in 2012. Discontinuation (i.e., a treatment gap of ≥6 months without antiplatelet medication prescription) was analysed in 2006 reinitiating patients. To identify factors associated with the likelihood of reinitiation and discontinuation, Cox regression with time-dependent covariates was used. Reinitiation was recorded in 2006 (66.2%) of 3032 patients who had discontinued antiplatelet medication. Among these 2006 reinitiators, 1078 (53.7%) patients discontinued antiplatelet therapy again. Ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction during nonpersistence and bronchial asthma/chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were associated with an increased likelihood of reinitiation. University education was associated with discontinuation among reinitiators. Factors associated with the probability of reinitiation and discontinuation in reinitiators make it possible to identify older PAD patients in whom “stop-starting” behaviour may be expected.
Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Induces SASP-Associated Gene Expression in Human Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells but Does Not Promote Cell Senescence
Authors: Grigorieva Olga , Arbatskiy Mikhail , Novoseletskaya Ekaterina , Dyachkova Uliana , Ishkin Alexander , Kalinina Natalia , Efimenko Anastasia
Published: September 2021

Activation of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) is a central part of tissue response to damage. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF-BB), which is abundantly released in the damaged area, potently stimulates the proliferation and migration of MSCs. Recent evidence indicates that tissue injury is associated with the accumulation of senescent cells, including ones of MSC origin. Therefore, we hypothesized that PDGF-BB induces MSC senescence. To evaluate mechanisms of early activation of MSCs by PDGF-BB, we performed transcriptome profiling of human MSCs isolated from adipose tissue after exposure to PDGF-BB for 12 and 24 h. We demonstrated that PDGF-BB induced the expression of several genes encoding the components of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) in MSCs such as plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), urokinase-type plasminogen activator and its receptor (uPA and uPAR), and some matrix metalloproteases. However, further experimental validation of transcriptomic data clearly indicated that PDGF-BB exerted mitogenic and pro-migratory effects on MSCs, and augmented their pro-angiogenic activity, but did not significantly stimulate MSC senescence.
Increasing the High Throughput of a Luminescence-Based Serum Bactericidal Assay (L-SBA)
Authors: Aruta Maria Grazia , Carducci Martina , Micoli Francesca , Necchi Francesca , Rossi Omar
Published: September 2021

Serum bactericidal assay (SBA) is the method to investigate in vitro complement-mediated bactericidal activity of sera raised upon vaccination. The assay is based on incubating the target bacteria and exogenous complement with sera at different dilutions and the result of the assay is represented by the sera dilution being able to kill 50% of bacteria present in the inoculum. The traditional readout of the assay is based on measurement of colony-forming units (CFU) obtained after plating different reaction mixes on agar. This readout is at low throughput and time consuming, even when automated counting is used. We previously described a novel assay with a luminescence readout (L-SBA) based on measurement of ATP released by live bacteria, which allowed to substantially increase the throughput as well as to reduce the time necessary to perform the assay when compared to traditional methods. Here we present a further improvement of the assay by moving from a 96-well to a 384-well format, which allowed us to further increase the throughput and substantially reduce costs while maintaining the high performance of the previously described L-SBA method. The method has been successfully applied to a variety of different pathogens.
Electromagnetic Pollution as a Possible Explanation for the Decline of House Sparrows in Interaction with Other Factors
Authors: Balmori Alfonso
Published: September 2021

In recent decades, there has been a decline of the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus), mainly in European cities, and several hypotheses have been proposed that attempt to determine the causes of this rapid decline. Previous studies indicated that house sparrows were significantly negatively associated with increasing electromagnetic radiation and sparrows disappeared from areas most polluted. In addition, there are many studies on the impact of radiation on other bird and non-bird species, as well as numerous laboratory studies that demonstrated detrimental effects at electric field strength levels that can be found in cities today. Electromagnetic radiation is the most plausible factor for multiple reasons, including that this is the only one that affects the other hypotheses proposed so far. It is a type of pollution that affects productivity, fertility, decreases insects (chicken feed), causes loss of habitat, decreases immunity and can promote disease. Additionally, the recent sparrow decline matches the deployment of mobile telephony networks. Further, there are known mechanisms of action for non-thermal effects of electromagnetic radiation that may affect sparrows causing their decline. Thus, electromagnetic radiation must be seriously considered as a factor for house sparrows’ decline, probably in synergy with the other factors previously proposed.
Rehabilitation Outcomes in Subjects with West Nile Neuro-Invasive Disease
Authors: Patel Komal , Greenwald Brian D. , Sabini Rosanna C.
Published: September 2021

West Nile Virus (WNV) is the most common mosquito borne cause of viral encephalitis in the United States. Physical and neuro-cognitive recovery from WNND may be prolonged or incomplete leading to chronic cognitive inefficiencies and functional decline. There continues to be no effective treatment of WNV and current management is primarily supportive. The objective of this review is to evaluate the functional outcomes and role of rehabilitation services in subjects with WNND. The charts of five subjects admitted to an acute inpatient brain injury rehabilitation facility from June to December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. (Mean, Range)-Age (64.8, 43–78 years), Admission Functional Independence Measure (FIM) (45.2, 14–63), Discharge FIM (82.2, 61–100), FIM score gain (37, 24–60), Cognitive FIM gain (7, 1–18), Mobility FIM gain (17.4, 13–20), ADL FIM gain (12.6, 4–23); acute brain injury inpatient rehabilitation facility length of stay (LOS) (17.8, 14–21 days); acute hospital LOS (15, 10–22 days). Of the five subjects, three were discharged home, one was discharged to a skilled nursing facility, and one was discharged to an assisted living facility. Subjects with WNND have significant functional decline across all FIM subcategories and may benefit from a course of brain injury-specific acute inpatient rehabilitation.
Pain Behavior of People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Coded with the New PAIC-15 and Validation of Its Arabic Translation
Authors: Defrin Ruth , Beshara Heba , Benromano Tali , Hssien Kutaiba , Pick Chaim G. , Kunz Miriam
Published: September 2021

Pain management necessitates assessment of pain; the gold standard being self-report. Among individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), self-report may be limited and therefore indirect methods for pain assessment are required. A new, internationally agreed upon and user-friendly observational tool was recently published—the Pain Assessment in Impaired Cognition (PAIC-15). The current study’s aims were: to test the use of the PAIC-15 in assessing pain among people with IDD and to translate the PAIC-15 into Arabic for dissemination among Arabic-speaking professionals. Pain behavior following experimental pressure stimuli was analyzed among 30 individuals with IDD and 15 typically developing controls (TDCs). Translation of the PAIC followed the forward–backward approach; and reliability between the two versions and between raters was calculated. Observational scores with the PAIC-15 exhibited a stimulus–response relationship with pressure stimulation. Those of the IDD group were greater than those of the TDC group. The overall agreement between the English and Arabic versions was high (ICC = 0.89); single items exhibited moderate to high agreement levels. Inter-rater reliability was high (ICC = 0.92). Both versions of the PAIC-15 are feasible and reliable tools to record pain behavior in individuals with IDD. Future studies using these tools in clinical settings are warranted.
Inhibitory Performance in Smokers Relative to Nonsmokers When Exposed to Neutral, Smoking- and Money-Related Pictures
Authors: Tsegaye Afework , Guo Cuiling , Cserjési Renáta , Kenemans Leon , Stoet Gijsbert , Kökönyei Gyöngyi , Logemann Alexander
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Smoking is associated with significant negative health consequences. It has been suggested that deficient inhibitory control may be implicated in (nicotine) addiction, but its exact role has not yet been elucidated. In the current study, our aim was to investigate the role of inhibitory control in relation to nicotine addiction in contexts that differ in terms of reward. Methods: Participants filled out questionnaires and performed a go/no-go task with three conditions. In one condition, the stimuli were neutral color squares, and in the reward conditions, these were smoking-related pictures and money-related pictures, respectively. In total, 43 non-abstinent individuals that smoke and 35 individuals that do not smoke were included in the sample. Results: The main results showed that individuals that smoke, relative to individuals that do not smoke, had reduced inhibitory control in both reward contexts, relative to a neutral context. The reductions in inhibitory control were mirrored by speeded responses. Conclusions: Individuals that smoke seem to present with reduced inhibitory control, which is most pronounced in contexts of reward. Consistent with incentive sensitization theory, the reduced inhibitory control may be (at least partly) due to the heightened approach bias to reward-related stimuli as indicated by the speeded responses.