bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Cardiometabolic Multimorbidity Pattern with Dietary Factors among Adults in South Korea
Authors: Jeong Dawoon , Kim Jieun , Lee Hansongyi , Kim Do-Yeon , Lim Hyunjung
Published: September 2020

Globally, cardiometabolic multimorbidity pattern (CMP) is a complex chronic health status that negatively effects the life expectancy of adults globally, even more than single diseases. We aimed to identify multimorbidity patterns in Korean adults to clarify the associations between dietary factors and CMP. Nationally representative data of 9011 Korean adults aged 19–64 years were obtained from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) from the period 2013 to 2015. Multimorbidity patterns for CMP, inflammatory disease, cancer and other disease patterns were identified by exploratory factor analysis. Dietary factors including food and nutrient intake and dietary habits were evaluated. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models examined the associations between dietary factors and CMP. More than half of the multimorbidity patterns were CMP (n = 4907, 54.5%); CMP subjects were more likely to be older, male, less educated, lower income, laborers, smokers, and high-risk consumers of alcohol than those of non-CMP subjects. A higher intake of calcium (OR = 0.809, 95% CI = 0.691–0.945), potassium (OR = 0.838, 95% CI = 0.704–0.998), and fruits (OR = 0.841, 95% CI = 0.736–0.960) were inversely associated with the prevalence of CMP, while the consumption of irregular meals (OR = 1.164, 95% CI = 1.034–1.312) and skipping breakfast (OR = 1.279, 95% CI = 1.078–1.518) was positively related to a 16% and 28% higher likelihood of CMP, respectively. CMP accounts for more than half of the multimorbidity patterns in the Korean population, and lower intake of calcium, potassium, fruits, and skipping meals have strong associations with CMP.
Improving Successful Introduction after a Negative Food Challenge Test: How to Achieve the Best Result?
Authors: Emons Joyce , van Gunst Marije , Liem Olivia , Landzaat Lonneke , Arends Nicolette
Published: September 2020

Oral food challenges (OFC) confirm or exclude the presence of a food allergy. The outcome can be positive (allergic symptoms), inconclusive, or negative (no symptoms). In the case of a negative OFC, parents and children are advised to introduce the challenged food allergen into their diet. However, previous studies showed difficulties in a successful introduction at home. The aim of this prospective non-randomized intervention study is to evaluate the effect of a new strategy with more guidance regarding the dietary introduction after a negative food challenge test. We compared two cohorts: an historical (retrospective) control group of 157 children, previously described, who did not receive any special advice after a negative OFC, versus a new cohort consisting of 104 children, who were guided according to our new strategy of written introduction schemes, food diaries, and several phone calls. In the historical control group, introduction was successful in 56%, partially successful in 16%, and 28% failed to introduce at home. After introduction of our new strategy, complete introduction was found in 82%, 11% had partially introduced, and only 8% failed to introduce the allergen. In conclusion, comprehensive advice and dietary recommendation after a negative OFC results in an increase in successful home introduction. Therefore, more attention, guidance, and follow-up of children and parents are desirable after a negative OFC.
Preclinical Progress of Subunit and Live Attenuated Mycobacterium tuberculosis Vaccines: A Review following the First in Human Efficacy Trial
Authors: Watt Jacqueline , Liu Jun
Published: September 2020

Tuberculosis (TB) is the global leading cause of death from an infectious agent with approximately 10 million new cases of TB and 1.45 million deaths in 2018. Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) remains the only approved vaccine for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb, causative agent of TB), however clinical studies have shown BCG has variable effectiveness ranging from 0–80% in adults. With 1.7 billion people latently infected, it is becoming clear that vaccine regimens aimed at both post-exposure and pre-exposure to M. tb will be crucial to end the TB epidemic. The two main strategies to improve or replace BCG are subunit and live attenuated vaccines. However, following the failure of the MVA85A phase IIb trial in 2013, more varied and innovative approaches are being developed. These include recombinant BCG strains, genetically attenuated M. tb and naturally attenuated mycobacteria strains, novel methods of immunogenic antigen discovery including for hypervirulent M. tb strains, improved antigen recognition and delivery strategies, and broader selection of viral vectors. This article reviews preclinical vaccine work in the last 5 years with focus on those tested against M. tb challenge in relevant animal models.
Specific Real-Time PCR for the Detection and Absolute Quantitation of Grapevine Roditis Leaf Discoloration-Associated Virus, an EPPO Alert Pathogen
Authors: Morán Félix , Sassalou Chrysoula-Lito , Canales Celia , Maliogka Varvara I. , Olmos Antonio , Ruiz-García Ana Belén
Published: September 2020

Grapevine Roditis leaf discoloration-associated virus (GRLDaV) is an emerging grapevine pathogen included in the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO) alert list due to its ability to damage grapevine crops and cause production losses. This work aimed to develop a specific and reliable diagnostic tool that would contribute to preventing the spread of this pathogen. Therefore, a TaqMan real-time quantitative PCR was developed. The method was validated according to EPPO guidelines showing a high degree of analytical sensitivity, analytical specificity, selectivity, and repeatability and reproducibility. The sensitivity of this method is much higher than the sensitivity reached by previously reported methods even when tested in crude extracts, which could allow rapid testing by avoiding nucleic acid extraction steps. The method was also able to detect GRLDaV isolates from all the geographic origins reported so far, despite their high degree of genetic diversity. In addition, this new technique has been successfully applied for the quantitative detection of GRLDaV in plant material and two mealybug species, Planococcus citri and Pseudococcus viburni. In conclusion, the methodology developed herein represents a significant contribution to the diagnosis and control of this emerging pathogen in grapevine.
Imprinted Contact Lenses for Ocular Administration of Antiviral Drugs
Authors: Varela-Garcia Angela , Gomez-Amoza José Luis , Concheiro Angel , Alvarez-Lorenzo Carmen
Published: September 2020

A variety of ocular diseases are caused by viruses, and most treatments rely on the use of systemic formulations and eye drops. The efficient ocular barriers that oppose antiviral drug penetration have prompted the development of improved topical delivery platforms. The aim was to design hydrogel contact lenses endowed with an affinity for acyclovir (ACV) and its prodrug valacyclovir (VACV), first-choice drugs against herpes simplex virus (HSV) ocular keratitis, and that can sustain the release of therapeutic doses during daily wearing. Functional monomers suitable for interaction with these drugs were screened using computational modeling. Imprinted and non-imprinted hydrogels were prepared with various contents in the functional monomer methacrylic acid (MAA) and characterized in terms of swelling, transmittance, mechanical properties, and ocular compatibility (hen’s egg test on chorioallantoic membrane (HET-CAM) assay). The values were in the range typical of soft contact lenses. Compared to ACV, the capability to load VACV was remarkably higher due to stronger electrostatic interactions with MAA. The advantages of the imprinting technology were evidenced for VACV. Stability of VACV loading solution/hydrogels under steam heat sterilization and subsequent drug release was investigated. Permeability studies through bovine and porcine cornea and sclera of the drug released from the hydrogels revealed that VACV accumulates in the cornea and can easily cross the sclera, which may facilitate the treatment of both anterior and posterior eye segments diseases.
Improving the Energy Efficiency of Industrial Refrigeration Systems by Means of Data-Driven Load Management
Authors: Cirera Josep , Carino Jesus A. , Zurita Daniel , Ortega Juan A.
Published: September 2020

A common denominator in the vast majority of processes in the food industry is refrigeration. Such systems guarantee the quality and the requisites of the final product at the expense of high amounts of energy. In this regard, the new Industry 4.0 framework provides the required data to develop new data-based methodologies to reduce such energy expenditure concern. Focusing in this issue, this paper proposes a data-driven methodology which improves the efficiency of the refrigeration systems acting on the load side. The solution approaches the problem with a novel load management methodology that considers the estimation of the individual load consumption and the necessary robustness to be applicable in highly variable industrial environments. Thus, the refrigeration system efficiency can be enhanced while maintaining the product in the desired conditions. The experimental results of the methodology demonstrate the ability to reduce the electrical consumption of the compressors by 17% as well as a 77% reduction in the operation time of two compressors working in parallel, a fact that enlarges the machines life. Furthermore, these promising savings are obtained without compromising the temperature requirements of each load.
Glider-Based Active Acoustic Monitoring of Currents and Turbidity in the Coastal Zone
Authors: Gentil Mathieu , Many Gaël , Durrieu de Madron Xavier , Cauchy Pierre , Pairaud Ivane , Testor Pierre , Verney Romaric , Bourrin François
Published: September 2020

The recent integration of Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) onto underwater gliders changes the way current and sediment dynamics in the coastal zone can be monitored. Their endurance and ability to measure in all weather conditions increases the probability of capturing sporadic meteorological events, such as storms and floods, which are key elements of sediment dynamics. We used a Slocum glider equipped with a CTD (Conductivity, Temperature, Depth), an optical payload, and an RDI 600 kHz phased array ADCP. Two deployments were carried out during two contrasting periods of the year in the Rhone River region of freshwater influence (ROFI). Coastal absolute currents were reconstructed using the shear method and bottom tracking measurements, and generally appear to be in geostrophic balance. The responses of the acoustic backscatter index and optical turbidity signals appear to be linked to changes of the particle size distribution in the water column. Significantly, this study shows the interest of using a glider-ADCP for coastal zone monitoring. However, the comparison between suspended particulate matter dynamics from satellites and gliders also suggests that a synoptic view of the processes involved requires a multiplatform approach, especially in systems with high spatial and temporal variability, such as the Rhone ROFI area.
The Low-Latitude Plasma Irregularities after Sunrise from Multiple Observations in Both Hemispheres during the Recovery Phase of a Storm
Authors: Luo Weihua , Xiong Chao , Xu Jisheng , Zhu Zhengping , Chang Shanshan
Published: September 2020

The daytime plasma density disturbances in the low-latitude ionosphere, referred to as plasma irregularities, mainly occur during the nighttime and are an unusual phenomenon. Based on the observations from multiple low Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites, e.g., the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) F13 and F15, the first Satellite of the Republic of China (ROCSAT-1), the Gravity Recovery and the Climate Experiment (GRACE), and Challenging Mini-satellite Payload (CHAMP) satellites, as well as the ground-based Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, we report a special event of low-latitude plasma irregularities that were observed after sunrise in the Pacific longitudes on 18 August, 2003, following a moderate geomagnetic storm. Observations from three ground-based GPS stations in both hemispheres showed remarkable total electron content (TEC) disturbances during 20:00 to 21:00 UT (around local sunrise), agreeing well with the in situ plasma density irregularities recorded by the nearby flying LEO satellites. The plasma irregularities observed by these LEO satellites showed quite different depletion intensities at different altitudes. We suggest that the plasma irregularities were freshly generated near sunrise hours due to the disturbance of the dynamo electric field (DDEF), evolving into the post-sunrise and morning sector, but were not the remnant of the plasma irregularities generated during the previous nighttime.
Spatial Variability and Detection Levels for Chlorophyll-a Estimates in High Latitude Lakes Using Landsat Imagery
Authors: Lisboa Filipe , Brotas Vanda , Santos Filipe Duarte , Kuikka Sakari , Kaikkonen Laura , Maeda Eduardo Eiji
Published: September 2020

Monitoring lakes in high-latitude areas can provide a better understanding of freshwater systems sensitivity and accrete knowledge on climate change impacts. Phytoplankton are sensitive to various conditions: warmer temperatures, earlier ice-melt and changing nutrient sources. While satellite imagery can monitor phytoplankton biomass using chlorophyll a (Chl) as a proxy over large areas, detection of Chl in small lakes is hindered by the low spatial resolution of conventional ocean color satellites. The short time-series of the newest generation of space-borne sensors (e.g., Sentinel-2) is a bottleneck for assessing long-term trends. Although previous studies have evaluated the use of high-resolution sensors for assessing lakes’ Chl, it is still unclear how the spatial and temporal variability of Chl concentration affect the performance of satellite estimates. We discuss the suitability of Landsat (LT) 30 m resolution imagery to assess lakes’ Chl concentrations under varying trophic conditions, across extensive high-latitude areas in Finland. We use in situ data obtained from field campaigns in 19 lakes and generate remote sensing estimates of Chl, taking advantage of the long-time span of the LT-5 and LT-7 archives, from 1984 to 2017. Our results show that linear models based on LT data can explain approximately 50% of the Chl interannual variability. However, we demonstrate that the accuracy of the estimates is dependent on the lake’s trophic state, with models performing in average twice as better in lakes with higher Chl concentration (>20 µg/L) in comparison with less eutrophic lakes. Finally, we demonstrate that linear models based on LT data can achieve high accuracy (R2 = 0.9; p-value < 0.05) in determining lakes’ mean Chl concentration, allowing the mapping of the trophic state of lakes across large regions. Given the long time-series and high spatial resolution, LT-based estimates of Chl provide a tool for assessing the impacts of environmental change.
The Dark Target Algorithm for Observing the Global Aerosol System: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Remer Lorraine A. , Levy Robert C. , Mattoo Shana , Tanré Didier , Gupta Pawan , Shi Yingxi , Sawyer Virginia , Munchak Leigh A. , Zhou Yaping , Kim Mijin , Ichoku Charles , Patadia Falguni , Li Rong-Rong , Gassó Santiago , Kleidman Richard G. , Holben Brent N.
Published: September 2020

The Dark Target aerosol algorithm was developed to exploit the information content available from the observations of Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometers (MODIS), to better characterize the global aerosol system. The algorithm is based on measurements of the light scattered by aerosols toward a space-borne sensor against the backdrop of relatively dark Earth scenes, thus giving rise to the name “Dark Target”. Development required nearly a decade of research that included application of MODIS airborne simulators to provide test beds for proto-algorithms and analysis of existing data to form realistic assumptions to constrain surface reflectance and aerosol optical properties. This research in itself played a significant role in expanding our understanding of aerosol properties, even before Terra MODIS launch. Contributing to that understanding were the observations and retrievals of the growing Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) of sun-sky radiometers, which has walked hand-in-hand with MODIS and the development of other aerosol algorithms, providing validation of the satellite-retrieved products after launch. The MODIS Dark Target products prompted advances in Earth science and applications across subdisciplines such as climate, transport of aerosols, air quality, and data assimilation systems. Then, as the Terra and Aqua MODIS sensors aged, the challenge was to monitor the effects of calibration drifts on the aerosol products and to differentiate physical trends in the aerosol system from artefacts introduced by instrument characterization. Our intention is to continue to adapt and apply the well-vetted Dark Target algorithms to new instruments, including both polar-orbiting and geosynchronous sensors. The goal is to produce an uninterrupted time series of an aerosol climate data record that begins at the dawn of the 21st century and continues indefinitely into the future.
High-Resolution ISAR Imaging with Modified Joint Range Spatial-Variant Autofocus and Azimuth Scaling
Authors: Wei Jiaqi , Shao Shuai , Ma Hui , Wang Penghui , Zhang Lei , Liu Hongwei
Published: September 2020

Well-focused and accurately scaled high-resolution inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) images provide a sound basis for feature extraction and target recognition. This paper proposes a novel high-resolution ISAR imaging algorithm, namely modified joint range spatial-variant autofocus and azimuth scaling algorithm (MJAAS). After motion compensation, the shift of the equivalent rotational center (ERC) of the target destroys the linear relationship between the azimuth chirp rates (ACR) of echo signals and the range coordinates of scattering points, thereby leading to the failure of azimuth scaling. Accordingly, a new joint equivalent rotational center position and effective rotational velocity (JERCP-ERV) signal model is established, serving as the basis of MJAAS. By recourse to the Davidon-Fletcher-Powell (DFP) algorithm, MJAAS can jointly estimate the ERCP and ERV by solving a minimum entropy optimization problem, so as to simultaneously achieve accurate azimuth scaling and range spatial-variant autofocus, which further improves the image focusing performance. MJAAS is not restricted by the modes of motion errors (coherent or non-coherent) and the motion compensation methods, so it can be widely applied to real data with the advantages of strong practicality and high accuracy. Extensive experimental results based on both simulated and real data are provided to corroborate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
A Study on the Effect of Contact Pressure during Physical Activity on Photoplethysmographic Heart Rate Measurements
Authors: Scardulla Francesco , D’Acquisto Leonardo , Colombarini Raffaele , Hu Sijung , Pasta Salvatore , Bellavia Diego
Published: September 2020

Heart rate (HR) as an important physiological indicator could properly describe global subject’s physical status. Photoplethysmographic (PPG) sensors are catching on in field of wearable sensors, combining the advantages in costs, weight and size. Nevertheless, accuracy in HR readings is unreliable specifically during physical activity. Among several identified sources that affect PPG recording, contact pressure (CP) between the PPG sensor and skin greatly influences the signals. Methods: In this study, the accuracy of HR measurements of a PPG sensor at different CP was investigated when compared with a commercial ECG-based chest strap used as a test control, with the aim of determining the optimal CP to produce a reliable signal during physical activity. Seventeen subjects were enrolled for the study to perform a physical activity at three different rates repeated at three different contact pressures of the PPG-based wristband. Results: The results show that the CP of 54 mmHg provides the most accurate outcome with a Pearson correlation coefficient ranging from 0.81 to 0.95 and a mean average percentage error ranging from 3.8% to 2.4%, based on the physical activity rate. Conclusion: Authors found that changes in the CP have greater effects on PPG-HR signal quality than those deriving from the intensity of the physical activity and specifically, the individual best CP for each subject provided reliable HR measurements even for a high intensity of physical exercise with a Bland–Altman plot within ±11 bpm. Although future studies on a larger cohort of subjects are still needed, this study could contribute a profitable indication to enhance accuracy of PPG-based wearable devices.
Modified Red Blue Vegetation Index for Chlorophyll Estimation and Yield Prediction of Maize from Visible Images Captured by UAV
Authors: Guo Yahui , Wang Hanxi , Wu Zhaofei , Wang Shuxin , Sun Hongyong , Senthilnath J. , Wang Jingzhe , Robin Bryant Christopher , Fu Yongshuo
Published: September 2020

The vegetation index (VI) has been successfully used to monitor the growth and to predict the yield of agricultural crops. In this paper, a long-term observation was conducted for the yield prediction of maize using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and estimations of chlorophyll contents using SPAD-502. A new vegetation index termed as modified red blue VI (MRBVI) was developed to monitor the growth and to predict the yields of maize by establishing relationships between MRBVI- and SPAD-502-based chlorophyll contents. The coefficients of determination (R2s) were 0.462 and 0.570 in chlorophyll contents’ estimations and yield predictions using MRBVI, and the results were relatively better than the results from the seven other commonly used VI approaches. All VIs during the different growth stages of maize were calculated and compared with the measured values of chlorophyll contents directly, and the relative error (RE) of MRBVI is the lowest at 0.355. Further, machine learning (ML) methods such as the backpropagation neural network model (BP), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and extreme learning machine (ELM) were adopted for predicting the yields of maize. All VIs calculated for each image captured during important phenological stages of maize were set as independent variables and the corresponding yields of each plot were defined as dependent variables. The ML models used the leave one out method (LOO), where the root mean square errors (RMSEs) were 2.157, 1.099, 1.146, and 1.698 (g/hundred grain weight) for BP, SVM, RF, and ELM. The mean absolute errors (MAEs) were 1.739, 0.886, 0.925, and 1.356 (g/hundred grain weight) for BP, SVM, RF, and ELM, respectively. Thus, the SVM method performed better in predicting the yields of maize than the other ML methods. Therefore, it is strongly suggested that the MRBVI calculated from images acquired at different growth stages integrated with advanced ML methods should be used for agricultural- and ecological-related chlorophyll estimation and yield predictions.
Multi-View-Based Pose Estimation and Its Applications on Intelligent Manufacturing
Authors: Yang Haiwei , Jiang Peilin , Wang Fei
Published: September 2020

Pose estimation is a typical problem in the field of image processing, the purpose of which is to compare or fuse images acquired under different conditions. In recent years, many studies have focused on pose estimation algorithms, but so far there are still many challenges, such as efficiency, complexity and accuracy for various targets and conditions, in the field of algorithm research and practical applications. In this paper, a multi-view-based pose estimation method is proposed. This method can solve the pose estimation problem effectively for large-scale targets and achieve good performance accuracy and stability. Compared with existing methods, this method uses different views (positions and angles), each of which only observes some features of large-size parts, to estimate the six-degree-of-freedom pose of the entire large-size parts. Experimental results demonstrate that the accurate six-degree-of-freedom pose for different targets can be obtained by the proposed method which plays an important role in many actual production lines. What is more, a new visual guidance system, applied into intelligent manufacturing, is presented based on this method. The new visual guidance system has been widely used in automobile manufacturing with high accuracy and efficiency but low cost.
Discrete Sliding Mode Control Design for Bilateral Teleoperation System via Adaptive Extended State Observer
Authors: Yan Yongli , Ding Li , Yang Yana , Liu Fucai
Published: September 2020

The goal of this paper is to improve the synchronization control performance of nonlinear teleoperation systems with system uncertainties in the presence of time delays. In view of the nonlinear discrete states of the teleoperation system in packet-switched communication networks, a new discrete sliding mode control (DSMC) strategy is performed via a new reaching law in task space. The new reaching law is designed to reduce the chattering and improve control performance. Moreover, an adaptive extended state observer (AESO) is used to estimate the total system disturbances. The additional gain of AESO is adjusted in time to decrease the estimation errors of both system states and disturbances automatically and improve the estimation performances of the AESO. Finally, the validity of the designed control strategy is demonstrated by both simulation and experiments. Furthermore, the experimental comparison results indicate that the improvement is achievable with the proposed AESO and DSMC.
The Effect of Magnet-to-Coil Distance on the Performance Characteristics of EMATs
Authors: Wu Yutang , Wu Yunxin
Published: September 2020

The poor conversion efficiency and obvious lift-off effect of the electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) are commonly known to be problems for its practical application. For the purpose of enhancing the performance of EMATs, numerical simulations were performed in order to analyze the effect of various parameters. The results indicate that only the magnet-to-coil distance can effectively enhance the conversion efficiency and weaken the lift-off effect at the same time. When the magnet-to-coil distance is 2 mm, the lift-off effect will continue to be weakened as the magnet-to-coil distance increases, whereas the decrease of the lift-off effect is inconspicuous and the conversion efficiency starts to decline at this time. Therefore, to get the best performance of this specific EMAT, the suitable magnet-to-coil distance is 2 mm. The experiment effectively verifies the improvement of EMATs with a magnet-to-coil distance of 2 mm.
Improved Achiral and Chiral HPLC-UV Analysis of Ruxolitinib in Two Different Drug Formulations
Authors: Di Michele Alessandro , Schoubben Aurélie , Varfaj Ina , D’Arpino Alessandro , Mercolini Laura , Sardella Roccaldo , Ricci Maurizio , Tiacci Enrico
Published: September 2020

In this paper, two new reversed-phase (RP) HPLC-UV methods enabling the quantitative achiral and chiral analysis of ruxolitinib in commercial tablets (containing 20 mg of active pharmaceutical ingredient, API) and not commercially available galenic capsules (with 5 mg of API) are described. For the achiral method based on the use of a water/acetonitrile [70:30, v/v; with 0.1% (v) formic acid] eluent, a “research validation” study was performed mostly following the “International Council for Harmonization” guidelines. All the system suitability parameters were within the acceptance criteria: tailing factor, between 1.7 and 2.0; retention factor, 2.2; number of theoretical plates, >9000. The linearity curve showed R2 = 0.99 (Rxv2 = 0.99), while trueness (expressed as recovery) was between 96.3 and 106.3%. Coefficient of variations (CVs) (repeatability: CVw and intermediate precision: CVIP) did not exceed 1.3% and 2.9%, respectively. Moreover, the use of the enantiomeric Whelk-O1 chiral stationary phases operated under similar RP eluent conditions as for the achiral analyses, and the “inverted chirality columns approach (ICCA)” allowed us to establish that the enantiomeric purity of ruxolitinib is retained upon reformulation from tablets to capsules. The two developed methods can allow accurate determinations of ruxolitinib in drug formulations for medical use.
Storytelling and Arts to Facilitate Community Capacity Building for Urban Planning and Social Work
Authors: Taylor Crystal , Wei Qinghong
Published: September 2020

Creating social connections and fostering engagement in communities is a growing challenge for community work. Planners, social workers, and community activists are starting to look towards the arts and storytelling as a way to promote community capacity. A community in Lopez Island, Washington, facing sustainable housing and agricultural issues brought in a two-day storytelling and theatre program to build capacity for their ecosocial work. This research describes facilitator engagement methodology and pilots a community capacity survey to evaluate the experience of workshop participants. Preliminary results show that the storytelling program makes strides in deepening connections to others and generating authentic dialogue. Participants reported both positive experiences of building trust and negative feelings of vulnerability. As funding can be a major barrier for community groups to incorporate arts programs, this research introduces a preliminary survey that communities can adapt and improve upon to help them start gathering evidence-based data for assessing measures of community capacity. Though the facilitators brought unique theatrical and choreographic skills to the programming, planners and social workers can take away for practice a simple storytelling exercise that participants enthusiastically expressed fostered listening, trust, and connection.
Propelling Children’s Empathy and Friendship
Authors: León-Jiménez Susana , Villarejo-Carballido Beatriz , López de Aguileta Garazi , Puigvert Lídia
Published: September 2020

Schools play a crucial role in creating supportive and safe environments, and positive feelings are key in fostering such environments. Schools as Learning Communities, based on the dialogic participation of the whole community, are improving social cohesion. However, the underlying processes leading to such transformations remain underexplored. This article suggests that successful educational actions (SEAs) implemented in a school as a learning community, analyzed in this case study, promote positive feelings such as friendship and empathy, contributing to a safe and supportive environment. The purpose of this study was to analyze how SEAs generate friendship and empathy and their impact in the environment in a school as a learning community in Spain. To that end, the methods used were interviews with 18 students and 10 teachers, and reviews of two documentary films featuring the school. Results suggest that SEAs generate friendship and empathy among many children by promoting mutual support and sharing narratives in such dialogic settings. In addition, developing friendship and empathy contributes to reducing violent behaviors and promoting more inclusive attitudes among many students. This study concludes by providing insights on how SEAs can contribute to safe and supportive environments through fostering friendship and empathy.
Analysis and Characterization of Risk Methodologies Applied to Industrial Parks
Authors: Folch-Calvo Martin , Brocal-Fernández Francisco , González-Gaya Cristina , Sebastián Miguel A.
Published: September 2020

It is important to evaluate the risks in industrial parks and their processes due to the consequences of major accidents and especially the domino effect. Scientific works present a wide possibility of models to deal with these situations. In this work, based on the information extracted from the scientific literature, six groups of risk methodologies are defined, analyzed, and characterized with methods that cover the standards, preventive, probabilistic, traditional, modern, and dynamic evaluation that are applied or could be used in industrial parks. It also tries to achieve the objective of determining which are more appropriate if the possible situations and causes that can produce an accident are taken into account, identifying and evaluating them with characteristics of simultaneity and immediacy, determining the probability of an accident occurring with sufficient advance in time to avoid it under the use of a working operational procedure. There is no definitive methodology, and it is necessary that they complement each other, but considering the proposed objective, the integrated application of traditional methodologies together with the management of safety barriers, the dynamic evaluation of risks, and the inclusion of machine learning systems could fulfill the proposed objective.
The Importance of the Participatory Dimension in Urban Resilience Improvement Processes
Authors: LopezDeAsiain Maria , Díaz-García Vicente
Published: September 2020

This article discusses the approach adopted by the researchers into citizen participation in urban regeneration actions and projects. It describes the concepts of sustainability and habitability in relation to the urban environment and architecture within the framework of improving the resilience of our cities through the circular economy and decarbonisation processes in architecture. The authors review the participatory dimension of different urban regeneration actions carried out in Spain and the impact of this dimension on the results obtained by environmental, economic and social urban improvements. They then define possible strategies and methodological tools for integrating this dimension into traditional urban regeneration processes. The article presents case studies and their specific characteristics, and draws conclusions about their effectiveness and relevance. It also compares citizen-led interventions with interventions led by public administrations. Lastly, the authors analyse the potential reasons for success in these processes and projects, identifying weaknesses and proposing possible strategies for future development by researchers.
Optimization of Remanufacturing Disassembly Line Balance Considering Multiple Failures and Material Hazards
Authors: Meng Wei , Zhang Xiufen
Published: September 2020

End-of-life (EOL) electromechanical products often have multiple failure characteristics and material hazard attributes. These factors create uncertain disassembly task sequences and affect the remanufacturing cost, environmental sustainability, and disassembly efficiency of the remanufacturing disassembly line system. To address this problem, a novel multi-constraint remanufacturing disassembly line balancing model (MC-RDLBM) is constructed in this article, which accounts for the failure characteristics of the parts and material hazard constraints. To assign the disassembly task reasonably, a disassembly priority decision-making model was presented to describe the relationship between the failure layer, the material hazards layer, and the economic feasibility layer. Furthermore, the multi-objective non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) optimization for the MC-RDLBM is improved. To increase the convergence speed of the algorithm, an initial population construction method is designed, which includes the component failure and material hazards. Moreover, a novel genetic algorithm evolution rule with a Pareto non-dominant relation and crowded distance constraint is established, which expands the search scope of the chromosome’s autonomous evolution and avoids local convergence. Furthermore, a Pareto grade-based evaluation strategy for non-dominant solutions is proposed to eliminate the invalid remanufacturing disassembly task sequences. Finally, a case study verified the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method.
Elderly Sustainable Mobility: Scientific Paper Review
Authors: Fatima Kaniz , Moridpour Sara , De Gruyter Chris , Saghapour Tayebeh
Published: September 2020

The number of elderly people as a proportion of the world’s population is growing significantly. Special attention to the accessibility and mobility requirements of this group is needed. The contribution of this paper is a review of travel patterns, mode preferences, infrastructure solutions, accessibility indices, mode choice models and datasets as they relate to elderly mobility. Key findings highlight the role of residential location characteristics in shaping elderly travel patterns, helping to explain why research on elderly travel has largely relied on case studies to date. The review also summarizes a range of indices that have been developed to measure public transport and walking accessibility among the elderly, including distance and time-based methods. Future research should consider the dominance of private transport in facilitating elderly mobility and its implications for cities experiencing an aging population.
Entrepreneurial Competencies and Organisational Change—Assessing Entrepreneurial Staff Competencies within Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Seikkula-Leino Jaana , Salomaa Maria
Published: September 2020

Universities have become more entrepreneurial organisations in the past decades. However, the entrepreneurial competences needed for driving societal change have not been largely discussed in research literature. This paper sought to examine entrepreneurial staff competencies in the context of universities of applied sciences. A single case study from Finland, Tampere University of Applied Science, was selected. As the case institution has systematically developed an entrepreneurial strategy, the aim was to examine how entrepreneurial thinking and actions at individual and organisational levels were realised. The quantitative study involved 17 supervisors and 39 employees, and the survey took place in the Spring of 2020. The results indicate that the entrepreneurial strategy has been successfully implemented. Although both supervisors and employees evaluate themselves and the organisation to be entrepreneurial, internal communication should be further developed. Especially the provision of constructive feedback to support self-efficacy and self-esteem should be highlighted. As previous studies have stressed the challenges of integrating entrepreneurial behaviour in a ‘traditional’ academic context, these results provide insights for universities aiming to implement an entrepreneurial strategy, stressing psychological factors in the development of entrepreneurial competencies. Furthermore, we introduce a new theoretical approach to the discussion on the entrepreneurial university based on entrepreneurial competences.
Management of Slum-Based Urban Farming and Economic Empowerment of the Community of Makassar City, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Surya Batara , Syafri Syafri , Hadijah Hadijah , Baharuddin Baharuddin , Fitriyah Andi Tenri , Sakti Harry Hardian
Published: September 2020

The handling of slums based on urban farming and community empowerment is oriented toward improving the welfare and independence of the community. This study aimed to (1) analyze the influence of business motivation, human resource capacity, community participation, and economic business management on the economic empowerment in the handling of slums; (2) analyze the direct and indirect effects of urban farming, community capacity, and capital support efforts to improve the welfare and independence of the community; and (3) formulate a sustainability model for community-based slum management in the Metro Tanjung Bunga area. The research approach used was a sequential explanatory design, which is a combination of quantitative and qualitative research, and data were obtained through observation, surveys, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The research findings show that business motivation, human resource capacity, community participation, and economic business management have a significant effect on economic empowerment. The direct influence of urban farming increases the welfare of the community by 27.66%, strengthens the capacity of the community to increase welfare by 55.95%, and provides business capital support to improve community welfare by 36.72%. Urban farming, community capacity-building, and business capital support provide a positive effect on improving the welfare and independence of the community in slums. Sustainability in slum settlements includes infrastructure, developing economic potential, and community participation.
Drinking Water Security Challenges in Rohingya Refugee Camps of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Akhter Mehereen , Uddin Sayed Mohammad Nazim , Rafa Nazifa , Hridi Sanjida Marium , Staddon Chad , Powell Wayne
Published: September 2020

About a million Rohingyas have fled due to the ethnic cleansing in Myanmar and sought refuge in Bangladesh. The refugees are located in temporary settlements on hilly areas of Cox’s Bazar with inadequate water and sanitation facilities, giving rise to diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea. This exploratory study reports drinking water security challenges in two Rohingya refugee camps within the larger camp network—Camp 2 and the recently-built Camp 4 Extension (Camp 4Ext)—to discover the key everyday issues refugees are facing related to drinking water. Both qualitative and quantitative methods have been applied to determining whether contamination is occurring during the collection, transportation, and storage of drinking water by comparing the water quality at the source with that in storage. The results show that Camp 4Ext is more suited for living in several respects compared with the other camps, attributable to significantly better planning during its construction: there is a lower prevalence of diseases, lower water collection times, higher standards of sanitation, and better access to water sources. This study’s outcomes will help camp authorities and the various agencies working there to provide sustainable water and sanitation interventions to improve the wellness of the Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar. The outcomes will also provide useful information and strategic direction to the global scientific and development communities who are working in refugee camps in other parts of the world, to tackle water security challenges.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on User Experience with Online Education Platforms in China
Authors: Chen Tinggui , Peng Lijuan , Jing Bailu , Wu Chenyue , Yang Jianjun , Cong Guodong
Published: September 2020

During the COVID-19 pandemic, social education has shifted from face to face to online in order to avoid large gatherings and crowds for blocking the transmission of the virus. To analyze the impact of virus on user experience and deeply retrieve users’ requirements, this paper constructs a reasonable evaluation index system through obtaining user reviews about seven major online education platforms before and after the outbreak of COVID-19, and by combining the emotional analysis, hot mining technology, as well as relevant literature. At the same time, the variation coefficient method is chosen to weigh each index based on the difference of index values. Furthermore, this paper adopts the comprehensive evaluation method to analyze user experience before and after the outbreak of COVID-19, and finally finds out the change of users’ concerns regarding the online education platform. In terms of access speed, reliability, timely transmission technology of video information, course management, communication and interaction, and learning and technical support, this paper explores the supporting abilities and response levels of online education platforms during COVID-19, and puts forward corresponding measures to improve how these platforms function.
Can Energy Depletion of Wild Atlantic Salmon Kelts Negotiating Hydropower Facilities Lead to Reduced Survival?
Authors: Baktoft Henrik , Gjelland Karl Ø. , Szabo-Meszaros Marcell , Silva Ana T. , Riha Milan , Økland Finn , Alfredsen Knut , Forseth Torbjørn
Published: September 2020

Repeat spawners constitute an important component of Atlantic salmon populations, but survival of post-spawning individuals (kelts) are often compromised by anthropogenic structures such as hydropower plants (HPPs). Potential effects of HPPs include migration delays and associated increased energy depletion, which potentially results in increased overall mortality. We combined a detailed 3D hydraulic model with high-resolution 3D tracking of tagged kelts (length 73–104 cm) to obtain estimates of kelt movement through water. These estimates were then used in an energetics model to estimate hourly energy expenditure while negotiating the HPP area. Hourly kelt energy expenditure varied between 0.8 and 10.1 kJ × h−1 and was dependent on kelt length. Degree of additional energy depletion can amount to several percent of remaining energy content (our study indicates 4–5 percentage points) potentially leading to reduced post-spawning survival. In turn, this can nullify the iteroparous breeding strategy and jeopardize long-term stability and persistence of Atlantic salmon populations inhabiting HPP rivers.
On (ϕ, ψ)-Metric Spaces with Applications
Authors: Ameer Eskandar , Aydi Hassen , Hammad Hasanen A. , Shatanawi Wasfi , Mlaiki Nabil
Published: September 2020

The aim of this article is to introduce the notion of a ϕ,ψ-metric space, which extends the metric space concept. In these spaces, the symmetry property is preserved. We present a natural topology τϕ,ψ in such spaces and discuss their topological properties. We also establish the Banach contraction principle in the context of ϕ,ψ-metric spaces and we illustrate the significance of our main theorem by examples. Ultimately, as applications, the existence of a unique solution of Fredholm type integral equations in one and two dimensions is ensured and an example in support is given.
Modified Harris Hawks Optimizer for Solving Machine Scheduling Problems
Authors: Jouhari Hamza , Lei Deming , Al-qaness Mohammed A. A. , Elaziz Mohamed Abd , Damaševičius Robertas , Korytkowski Marcin , Ewees Ahmed A.
Published: September 2020

Scheduling can be described as a decision-making process. It is applied in various applications, such as manufacturing, airports, and information processing systems. More so, the presence of symmetry is common in certain types of scheduling problems. There are three types of parallel machine scheduling problems (PMSP): uniform, identical, and unrelated parallel machine scheduling problems (UPMSPs). Recently, UPMSPs with setup time had attracted more attention due to its applications in different industries and services. In this study, we present an efficient method to address the UPMSPs while using a modified harris hawks optimizer (HHO). The new method, called MHHO, uses the salp swarm algorithm (SSA) as a local search for HHO in order to enhance its performance and to decrease its computation time. To test the performance of MHHO, several experiments are implemented using small and large problem instances. Moreover, the proposed method is compared to several state-of-art approaches used for UPMSPs. The MHHO shows better performance in both small and large problem cases.