bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexural Strength of Damaged RC Beams Repaired with Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) Using Different Techniques
Authors: Turki Abbas Yahya , Al-Farttoosi Mahdi Hameed
Published: July 2023

In this study, an experimental program was developed to investigate the flexural behavior of pre-damaged reinforced concrete (RC) beams that had been repaired and strengthened using carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates under a monotonic load. Two techniques were used: externally bonded reinforcement (EBR) and near-surface-mounted (NSM) reinforcement, to repair and strengthen the tested beams. The experimental program involved casting and testing nine simply supported RC rectangular beams; one beam was considered as the reference beam and did not undergo additional strengthening, and the remaining beams were strengthened using CFRP laminates. These eight beams were divided into two main groups for the purposes of strengthening: beams for which the EBR technique was used, and beams for which the NSM technique was used. The primary variables observed in the EBR and NSM groups included four damage percentages obtained according to the preload (20, 40, 60, and 80%) from the ultimate load carried by the reference beam. The experimental results show that decreasing the damage percentage leads to an increase in ultimate strength from about 3.6% to 17.2% for the beams repaired using the EBR technique and from 27.6% to 57% for the beams repaired using the NSM technique; additionally, the NSM method was more effective than the EBR method in terms of the flexural strength and mode of failure. However, using CFRP laminates enhances the flexure capacity of strengthened RC beams.
Performance-Based Evacuation Optimization for Teaching Building with Heterogeneous Populations: Simulation and Numerical Studies
Authors: Yang Lanyu , Zhou Bailing , Wu Tao
Published: July 2023

Building evacuation safety has been one of the focal points of researchers, and there is a wealth of research findings for certain places (e.g., buildings with a high population density) or for particular research subjects (e.g., the physically challenged ethnic group). However, current publications are relatively rare in analyzing the features of physically impaired individuals in crowded places and their impact on the effectiveness of the whole evacuation process, including non-disabled people. Additionally, only such studies tend to concentrate on the behavioral characteristics of disabled people, which lack exploring and comparing evacuation optimization strategies and evaluation of comprehensive evacuation performance. This paper proposed a computer simulation-based method that combined horizontally phased evacuation and vertically phased evacuation, supplemented with the use of handicapped ramps and a reasonable arrangement of class locations, to achieve the optimal evacuation performance of a teaching building with special consideration of the heterogeneous population. And then, a simulated building model was constructed to test and compare the effectiveness and applicability of these approaches through 33 evacuation scenario studies. The results found that (1) component design can improve evacuation effectiveness, with the arrangement of ramps and the location of stair doors successfully reducing evacuation time by 12% and 6.6%, respectively; (2) a combination of two ramps and separate handicap access can decrease evacuation time by 18%; (3) the horizontal-phased evacuation approach drops evacuation time by 7.1%, but the vertical-phased evacuation strategy is not very efficient. When the two are successfully combined, evacuation time is further reduced to 9.2%; and (4) based on the above measures, the evacuation time can be finally shortened by 19% if the veteran teachers are concentrated in the classrooms on the lower floors. These obtained conclusions will provide significant reference and methodological support for the safe evacuation of other similar buildings with heterogeneous populations.
Hydrodynamics of Swirling Steam–Water Two-Phase Flows under External Shear
Authors: Ghazwani Hassan A. S. , Sanaullah Khairuddin , Khan Afrasyab
Published: July 2023

The hydrodynamics of steam–water two-phase flows under the effects of shearing, swirling, and large-scale discrete boundary conditions were investigated on an experimental basis. The steam was injected in a swirling configuration into concurrently flowing water. Both the steam and water were injected at gauge pressures of 1.0 and 2.0 bars, whereas the swirling was caused by a propeller moving at rotational speeds of 60 and 300 rpm. The ensembled normalized amplitudes of the velocity fluctuations across a layer defined by spatial positions along the radial and axial directions inhibited the swirling steam–water two-phase flows. This ensembled nature and the normalized amplitudes of the velocity fluctuations were investigated under the action of the above-stated operating conditions, and it was found that the swirling steam–water two-phase body of the flow showed proportionally varying percentages of ensembled-normalized amplitudes of the velocity fluctuations.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Visualization Techniques for NACA Symmetric Airfoils at Extremely Low Reynolds Numbers
Authors: Rodríguez-Sevillano Ángel Antonio , Casati-Calzada María Jesús , Bardera-Mora Rafael , Ballesteros-Grande Lucía , Martínez-García-Rodrigo Lucía , López-Cuervo-Alcaraz Alejandra , Fernández-Antón Jaime , Matías-García Juan Carlos , Barroso-Barderas Estela
Published: July 2023

This article aims to highlight the importance of utilizing flow visualization techniques in the preliminary analysis of streamlined and bluff bodies, especially the potential use of visualization with ink in a water channel as a tool for a preliminary approach during fluid mechanics analysis. According to this, the study compares the results obtained using a classical flow visualization technique, ink injection in water, with those obtained through the employment of a laser-based measurement and visualization technique, called PIV, in a low-speed wind tunnel. The article briefly presents both techniques and highlights the importance of flow visualization in the analysis of aerodynamic bodies. This study focuses on flow over NACA airfoils at extremely low Reynolds numbers, which is of great interest for application in extraterrestrial atmospheres, such as on Mars. After obtaining images of the flow streamlines over the NACA 0018 airfoil, the results of both techniques were compared. The results indicated that there was good agreement between the visualization with the water channel and the PIV results, suggesting that the results obtained in the water channel represented a scientifically valid approximation and an essential complement to computational models that require experimental validation.
Functional and Nutritional Characteristics of Natural or Modified Wheat Bran Non-Starch Polysaccharides: A Literature Review
Authors: Sztupecki Wendy , Rhazi Larbi , Depeint Flore , Aussenac Thierry
Published: July 2023

Wheat bran (WB) consists mainly of different histological cell layers (pericarp, testa, hyaline layer and aleurone). WB contains large quantities of non-starch polysaccharides (NSP), including arabinoxylans (AX) and β-glucans. These dietary fibres have long been studied for their health effects on management and prevention of cardiovascular diseases, cholesterol, obesity, type-2 diabetes, and cancer. NSP benefits depend on their dose and molecular characteristics, including concentration, viscosity, molecular weight, and linked-polyphenols bioavailability. Given the positive health effects of WB, its incorporation in different food products is steadily increasing. However, the rheological, organoleptic and other problems associated with WB integration are numerous. Biological, physical, chemical and combined methods have been developed to optimise and modify NSP molecular characteristics. Most of these techniques aimed to potentially improve food processing, nutritional and health benefits. In this review, the physicochemical, molecular and functional properties of modified and unmodified WB are highlighted and explored. Up-to-date research findings from the clinical trials on mechanisms that WB have and their effects on health markers are critically reviewed. The review points out the lack of research using WB or purified WB fibre components in randomized, controlled clinical trials.
Shaping Poultry Meat Quality Attributes in the Context of Consumer Expectations and Preferences—A Case Study of Poland
Authors: Grzybowska-Brzezińska Mariola , Banach Joanna Katarzyna , Grzywińska-Rąpca Małgorzata
Published: July 2023

The optimisation of poultry meat quality attributes at the industrial level requires getting to know the changing customer needs and expectations to justify further measures taken in the future to improve the production process. This article was aimed at the following: (1) to identify and assess consumer expectations and behaviour in relation to the quality criteria for poultry meat offered on the market in Poland, and (2) to identify the significance of the sensory characteristics of poultry meat, mainly variegated colours on its surface, as a criterion for creating the expected quality in a shop. The study results showed that the attributes which significantly lower the quality and commercial value of meat are the defects noticeable on the fillet surface, namely discolouration and hematomas, which are mainly caused during the poultry stunning. The absence of noticeable bruising or hematomas and a uniform colour on the fillet surface are the main attributes of high-quality poultry meat retail cuts, which are expected by consumers. A recommendation for poultry meat producers is that bruising and hematomas need to be eliminated and that the offer should be adjusted to Polish consumers’ expectations about the quality attributes of the meat offered on the market. The elimination of these meat defects will be possible, e.g., through the introduction of innovative technical solutions into the poultry stunning process, which will improve meat quality at its production stage.
Comparison of Physicochemical Properties of Noodles Fortified with Commercial Calcium Salts versus Calcium Citrate from Oyster Shells
Authors: Lin Hong-Ting Victor , Chen Guan-Wen , Chang Ke-Liang Bruce , Bo Yi-Jun , Sung Wen-Chieh
Published: July 2023

This study examined the physicochemical effects of the fortification of noodles with 0.25–1.00% (w/w) calcium salts, viz. calcium acetate, calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, and calcium lactate. Fortification with calcium citrate, calcium acetate, and calcium carbonate increased the pH and breaking force of the dried noodles. However, the fortification of noodles with any concentration of calcium did not increase the extent of elongation of the control raw noodles. The L* and b* values of the raw and dried noodle color increased with increasing concentrations of calcium salts, except for noodles with added calcium citrate. Fortification with calcium citrate yielded no significant influence on color, texture, adhesiveness, springiness, flavor, and overall scores for cooked noodles. Noodles fortified with 0.5% calcium citrate made from oyster shells were compared with a control sample of noodles and noodles fortified with commercially available calcium citrate. The particle size of the calcium citrate made from oyster shells (258 nm) was smaller than that of the purchased calcium citrate (2631 nm). Noodles fortified with calcium citrate made from oyster shells showed no significantly difference compared to noodles fortified with commercially available calcium citrate. These results suggest that calcium citrate made from oyster shells may be used as the additive of choice for the manufacture of calcium-fortified noodles.
Valorization of Soybean Residue (Okara) by Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction: Compositional, Physicochemical, and Functional Properties of Oil and Defatted Powder
Authors: Aussanasuwannakul Aunchalee , Boonbumrung Sumitra , Pantoa Thidarat
Published: July 2023

In the context of food waste valorization, the purpose of this study is to demonstrate the complete valorization of soybean residue (okara) through supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SCE). Okara oil (OKO) was separated from full-fat powder (FFP) using SCE with and without ethanol (EtOH) as a cosolvent. The kinetics of extraction, chemical composition, and physicochemical, functional, and health-promoting properties of OKO and defatted powder (DFP) were determined. The process yielded 18.5% oil after 450 min. The soluble dietary fiber and protein of the DFP increased significantly; its water and oil absorption capacities increased despite the decrease in swelling capacity corresponding to particle size reduction. The OKO was rich in linoleic and oleic acids, with a ratio of ω6-to-ω3 fatty acids = 9.53, and EtOH increased its phenolic content (0.45 mg GAE/g), aglycone content (239.6 μg/g), and antioxidant capacity (0.195 mg TE/g). The DFP paste showed gel-like consistency and shear-thinning flow behavior, whereas the OKO showed characteristic transition of the product and affected lubrication at contact zones. Both fractions showed potential as food ingredients based on their nutritional and functional properties, as well as the capability of modifying the microstructure of a model food system.
Effect of the Addition of Freeze-Dried Grape Pomace on Fresh Tagliatelle Gluten Network and Relationship to Sensory and Chemical Quality
Authors: la Gatta Barbara , Rutigliano Mariacinzia , Liberatore Maria Teresa , Dilucia Flavia , Palmitessa Maurizio , Di Luccia Aldo , Lamacchia Carmela
Published: July 2023

The incorporation of 5 and 10% freeze-dried grape pomace powder (GPP) in fresh tagliatelle pasta preparation was evaluated for its effect on chemical composition, gluten protein structure, and sensory properties. The addition of the freeze-dried GPP led to a significant increase (p < 0.05) in polyphenol content in the raw and cooked fortified pasta samples with respect to 100% semolina pasta, although the phenolic content decreased after the cooking process. The opposite phenomenon was observed with the antioxidant activity, which increased significantly (p < 0.05) when switching from raw to cooked pasta samples fortified with GPP. The formation of a proper gluten structure was found in the fortified raw pasta, even if a change in the protein arrangement was shown in the fortified cooked samples, confirmed by a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in both the unextractable polymeric protein percentage (% UPP) and disulfide bond (S-S) formation. These results suggest a possible interaction between the protein sulfhydryl groups (-Cys) and polyphenols of grape pomace during cooking through non-disulfide covalent bonds, which was confirmed by the significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the -SH groups when comparing 100% semolina pasta with fortified pasta sample. Finally, a sensory analysis showed that the highest significant score (p < 0.05) was achieved by the 5% GP-fresh pasta sample.
Microencapsulation of Betaxanthin Pigments from Pitahaya (Hylocereus megalanthus) By-Products: Characterization, Food Application, Stability, and In Vitro Gastrointestinal Digestion
Authors: Otálora María Carolina , Wilches-Torres Andrea , Gómez Castaño Jovanny A.
Published: July 2023

The yellow pitahaya peels generated as by-products during the consumption and processing of the fresh fruit are a rich and underutilized source of betaxanthins (natural yellow-orange pigment with antioxidant activity) and mucilage (structuring material used in the spray-drying process), molecules of high interest for the food industry. In this work, the betaxanthin-rich extract (BRE) obtained from this by-product was microencapsulated by spray drying (SD) using pitahaya peel mucilage (MPP) and maltodextrin (MD) as wall materials. Both types of microencapsulates (i.e., SD-MPP and SD-MD) retained high betaxanthin content (as measured by UV-vis) and antioxidant activity (ORAC). These microencapsulates were characterized structurally (FTIR and zeta potential), morphologically (SEM and particle size/polydispersity index), and thermally (DSC/TGA). The powdered microencapsulates were incorporated into the formulation of candy gummies as a food model, which were subjected to an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion process. The characterization study (FTIR and antioxidant activity) of the microcapsules showed that the fruit peel mucilage favors the retention of betaxanthins, while the SEM analysis revealed a particle size of multimodal distribution and heterogeneous morphology. The addition of SD-MPP microcapsules in the candy gummy formulation favored the total dietary fiber content as well as the gumminess and chewiness of the food matrix; however, the inhibition of AAPH• (%) was affected. The stability of the yellow color in the gummies after 30 days of storage indicates its suitability for storage. Consequently, the microencapsulation of betaxanthins with pitahaya peel mucilage can be used as a food additive colorant in the food industry, replacing synthetic colorants, to develop products with beneficial qualities for health that can satisfy the growing demand of consumers.
Development of a Functional Acceptable Diabetic and Plant-Based Snack Bar Using Mushroom (Coprinus comatus) Powder
Authors: Dimopoulou Maria , Vareltzis Patroklos , Floros Stylianos , Androutsos Odysseas , Bargiota Alexandra , Gortzi Olga
Published: July 2023

Consumers’ growing concern about health and well-being has led to increased interest in functional foods. This research aims to evaluate the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of a functional plant-based (PB) snack bar enriched with Coprinus comatus powder. The snack bar formulations exhibited a wide range of flavor and textural characteristics. Two PB snack bars and four commercial bars were evaluated by a consumer panel of healthy volunteers (n = 20). The PB snack bar scored ‘like extremely’ on the 9-point hedonic scale. External preference mapping determined that sweetness, flavors, cohesiveness, gumminess, and adhesion had the greatest influence on consumer acceptability. Water content, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrate, reducing sugar, resistant starch, and dietary fiber were measured. Nutritional content was enhanced (omega 3, fiber and protein), and samples were shelf life stable (aw < 0.29; moisture content < 10%). In addition, the PB snack bar underwent simulated digestion according to the INFOGEST protocol, and from the comparative evaluation, the PB snack can be seen to control the post-prandial glycemic responses, as observed by the different degree of reducing sugars released via the matrix. The PB snack bar can be further functionally enhanced by the addition of their unique ingredients such as Coprinus comatus. Coprinus comatus powder is claimed to benefit glycemic control in diabetes and has attracted growing interest in terms of its potential use in natural products with possible health benefits.
Climate Change—A Global Threat Resulting in Increasing Mycotoxin Occurrence
Authors: Kos Jovana , Anić Mislav , Radić Bojana , Zadravec Manuela , Janić Hajnal Elizabet , Pleadin Jelka
Published: July 2023

During the last decade, scientists have given increasingly frequent warnings about global warming, linking it to mycotoxin-producing moulds in various geographical regions across the world. In the future, more pronounced climate change could alter host resilience and host–pathogen interaction and have a significant impact on the development of toxicogenic moulds and the production of their secondary metabolites, known as mycotoxins. The current climate attracts attention and calls for novel diagnostic tools and notions about the biological features of agricultural cultivars and toxicogenic moulds. Since European climate environments offer steadily rising opportunities for Aspergillus flavus growth, an increased risk of cereal contamination with highly toxic aflatoxins shall be witnessed in the future. On top of that, the profile (representation) of certain mycotoxigenic Fusarium species is changing ever more substantially, while the rise in frequency of Fusarium graminearum contamination, as a species which is able to produce several toxic mycotoxins, seen in northern and central Europe, is becoming a major concern. In the following paper, a high-quality approach to a preventative strategy is tailored to put a stop to the toxicogenic mould- and mycotoxin-induced contamination of foods and feeds in the foreseeable future.
Fractional PID Controller for Voltage-Lift Converters
Authors: Martinez-Patiño Luis M. , Perez-Pinal Francisco J. , Soriano-Sánchez Allan Giovanni , Rico-Secades Manuel , Zarate-Orduño Carina , Nuñez-Perez Jose-Cruz
Published: July 2023

Voltage-lift is a widely used technique in DC–DC converters to step-up output voltage levels. Several traditional and advanced control techniques applicable to power electronic converters (PEC) have been reported and utilized for voltage-lift applications. Similarly, in recent years the implementation of fractional-order controllers (FOC) in PEC applications has gained interest, aiming to improve system performance, and has been validated in basic converter topologies. Following this trend, this work presents an FOC for a voltage-lift converter, requiring only output voltage feedback. A third-order non-minimal phase system is selected for experimentation to verify FOC implementations for more complex PEC configurations. A simple, straightforward design and approximation methodology for the FOC is proposed. Step-by-step development of the FOC, numerical and practical results on a 50 W voltage-lift converter are reported. The results show that PEC transient and steady-state responses can be enhanced using FOC controllers when compared with classical linear controllers. Extended applications of FOC for improved performance in power conversion is also discussed.
Evaluation of Osteogenic Potential of Fucoidan Containing Chitosan Hydrogel in the Treatment of Periodontal Intra-Bony Defects—A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Eshwar Shruthi , Konuganti Kranti , Manvi Supriya , Bharadwaj Aarya N. , Sajjan Sudarshan , Boregowda Sateesha Shivally , Jain Vipin
Published: July 2023

Periodontal diseases significantly impact about half of the global population, and their treatment often encompasses relieving symptoms as well as regenerating the destroyed tissues. Revolutionary research in the management of periodontal disease includes biomaterials, a boon to re-generative dentistry owing to their excellent biological properties: non-toxicity, anti-inflammatory, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and adhesion. This study aimed to fabricate an injectable fucoidan containing chitosan hydrogel and prove its effectiveness in periodontal bone regeneration. The injectable hydrogel was prepared using the sol-gel method and was subjected to various physical, chemical, and biological characterizations to understand its efficacy in formation of new bone. The effectiveness of the developed hydrogel was assessed in periodontal bony defects to study the soft and hard tissue changes. A total of 40 periodontitis patients with bony defects were recruited and randomized into two groups to receive fucoidan-chitosan hydrogel and concentrated growth factor, respectively. Customized acrylic stents were used to guide the hydrogel placement into the defect site. Post-surgical changes in clinical parameters were assessed at 3, 6, and 9 months to appreciate the soft and hard tissue changes using repeated measures analysis of variance and Bonferroni’s post hoc test. Significance was kept at 5%. The porosity, water uptake of the prepared hydrogel showed good efficacy, with particle size of the fucoidan containing chitosan hydrogel of 6.000 nm. The MG-63 osteoblasts cell line revealed biocompatibility, biodegradability and showed slow and sustained drug release, increased cell proliferation, and enhanced alkaline phosphatase secretion. Mineralization assay was greatest in the fucoidan containing chitosan hydrogel. Clinically, it exhibited significantly lower probing depth values and a higher mean improvement in clinical attachment level as compared to the concentrated growth factor (CGF) group at the end of 3 and 6 months (p < 0.05). The mean of the defect fills in the fucoidan containing chitosan group was 1.20 at the end of 9 months (p < 0.001) as compared with defect fills observed in the CGF group. The presence of fucoidan in the hydrogel significantly contributed to bone regeneration in humans, thus strengthening its potential in tissue engineering. Fucoidan-chitosan will be a promising biomaterial for bone tissue regeneration.
Cellulose Nanocrystal (CNC) Gels: A Review
Authors: Veloso Sérgio R. S. , Azevedo Ana G. , Teixeira Paulo F. , Fernandes Célio B. P.
Published: July 2023

The aim of this article is to review the research conducted in the field of aqueous and polymer composites cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) gels. The experimental techniques employed to characterize the rheological behavior of these materials will be summarized, and the main advantages of using CNC gels will also be addressed in this review. In addition, research devoted to the use of numerical simulation methodologies to describe the production of CNC-based materials, e.g., in 3D printing, is also discussed. Finally, this paper also discusses the application of CNC gels along with additives such as cross-linking agents, which can represent an enormous opportunity to develop improved materials for manufacturing processes.
Nanostructured Bioaerogels as a Potential Solution for Particulate Matter Pollution
Authors: Saleh Wafa Mustafa , Ahmad Mardiana Idayu , Yahya Esam Bashir , H.P.S. Abdul Khalil
Published: July 2023

Particulate matter (PM) pollution is a significant environmental and public health issue globally. Exposure to high levels of PM, especially fine particles, can have severe health consequences. These particles can come from a variety of sources, including natural events like dust storms and wildfires, as well as human activities such as industrial processes and transportation. Although an extensive development in air filtration techniques has been made in the past few years, fine particulate matter still poses a serios and dangerous threat to human health and to our environment. Conventional air filters are fabricated from non-biodegradable and non-ecofriendly materials which can cause further environmental pollution as a result of their excessive use. Nanostructured biopolymer aerogels have shown great promise in the field of particulate matter removal. Their unique properties, renewable nature, and potential for customization make them attractive materials for air pollution control. In the present review, we discuss the meaning, properties, and advantages of nanostructured aerogels and their potential in particulate matter removal. Particulate matter pollution, types and sources of particulate matter, health effect, environmental effect, and the challenges facing scientists in particulate matter removal are also discussed in the present review. Finally, we present the most recent advances in using nanostructured bioaerogels in the removal of different types of particulate matter and discuss the challenges that we face in these applications.
Gel Protein Extraction’s Impact on Conformational Epitopes of Linear Non-Tagged MPT64 Protein
Authors: Kusuma Sri Agung Fitri , Fadhlillah Muhammad , Rostinawati Tina , Maisyarah Intan Timur , Syafitri Raden Indah Puspita , Subroto Toto
Published: July 2023

The production and purification of recombinant proteins are crucial to acquiring pure MPT64 protein. Due to the fact that protein epitopes may undergo conformational changes during purification, this study, therefore, investigated an effective rapid purification method to produce highly intracellular pure MPT64 protein without causing conformational changes in the epitope under denaturing conditions. MPT64 was isolated from E. coli and electrophoresed using gel SDS-PAGE. Then, the desired protein bands were excised and purified with two methods: electroelution and passive elution. The isolated protein was identified via peptide mass fingerprinting using MALDI-TOF MS and reacted with IgG anti-MPT64, and the cross-reactivity of the isolated protein with IgY anti-MPT64 was confirmed using Western blot. The results show that both of these methods produced pure MPT64 protein, and the MPT64 protein was confirmed based on the MALDI-TOF MS results. Neither of these two methods resulted in epitope changes in the MPT64 protein so it could react specifically with both antibodies. The yield of MPT64 protein was higher with electroelution (2030 ± 41 µg/mL) than with passive elution (179.5 ± 7.5 µg/mL). Thus, it can be inferred that the electroelution method is a more effective method of purifying MPT64 protein and maintaining its epitope than the passive elution method.
Anchored in History: Understanding the Persistence of Eco-Violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt through Collective Memory
Authors: Olumba Ezenwa E.
Published: July 2023

The Nigerian Middle Belt is the epicentre of violent conflicts between Fulani herders and sedentary farmers over land and agricultural resources called eco-violence; existing research has not adequately addressed the persistence of these conflicts. Using Social Representations Theory (SRT), this paper examines empirical case studies conducted in April 2018 and May 2022 in Benue State, Nigeria, to determine why these conflicts persist. The paper argues that contending parties anchor, objectify, and socially represent past contestations in pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial Nigeria in present-day realities and events in the Middle Belt, leading to the re-experience of collective memories and their consequences on people’s violent collective behaviour. Consequently, people resort to violence to redress present grievances viewed through the prism of past events. To promote sustainable peace when tackling deeply-rooted conflicts, it is essential to comprehend the historical context and the significance of collective memory while employing a comprehensive strategy for conflict resolution. Implementing the Cognitive Reappraisal Technique to address issues related to collective memories is critical to this approach.
GEOAM: A Holistic Assessment Tool for Unveiling the Geoeducational Potential of Geosites
Authors: Zafeiropoulos George , Drinia Hara
Published: July 2023

A new assessment method named GEOAM (geoeducational assessment method), that will be a useful tool for highlighting the geoeducational and geoethical value of a geosite, is proposed. This method takes into account, initially, 11 criteria, which are grouped into 8 categories. Each criterion addresses a different aspect of the geosite’s potential for promoting sustainable development, environmental management, and education. A simplified scoring system using a scale of 1–5 is used, where each criterion is scored based on the degree to which it is presented or implemented. The method was piloted in eight geotopes of the Kalymnos Island and five geotopes of the Nisyros Island, in the SE Aegean Sea, Greece. The implementation of this assessment method highlighted the geoeducational value of these geosites. Based on the criteria and subcriteria incorporated in GEOAM, this paper discusses GEOAM’s potential to promote sustainable development and rational environmental management by directing educators and stakeholders toward actions that conserve and protect geoheritage for future generations, while also contributing to the economic, social, and cultural development of the surrounding communities. By quantifying the geoeducational potential of geosites and integrating essential concepts such as geoconservation and geoethics, the implementation of this new assessment method can benefit the educational community, tourism industry, and environmental conservation efforts.
Self-Compassion during COVID-19 in Non-WEIRD Countries: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kotera Yasuhiro , Kirkman Ann , Beaumont Julie , Komorowska Magdalena A. , Such Elizabeth , Kaneda Yudai , Rushforth Annabel
Published: July 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted people’s mental health negatively worldwide, including in non-WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialised, Rich and Democratic) countries. Self-compassion, kindness and understanding towards oneself in difficult times have received increasing attention in the field of mental health. Self-compassion is strongly associated with good mental health in various populations. This narrative review aimed to synthesise the evidence on self-compassion and mental health in non-WEIRD countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. MEDLINE and PsycINFO were searched for empirical studies. Self-compassion was consistently associated with positive mental health in non-WEIRD countries too. However, how, and to what degree, each component of self-compassion impacts mental health remains to be evaluated across different cultures. Future research such as multi-national intervention studies, or component network meta-analysis, is needed to advance our understanding of how self-compassion improves mental health in different populations.
Enabling System Functionalities of Primary Care Practices for Team Dynamics in Transformation to Team-Based Care: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)
Authors: Liu Lingrui , Chien Alyna , Singer Sara
Published: July 2023

Team-based primary care has been shown to be an important initiative for transforming primary care to achieve whole-person care, enhance health equity, and reduce provider burnout. Organizational approaches have been explored to better implement team-based care but a thorough understanding of the role of system functions is lacking. We aimed to identify the combinations of system functionalities in primary care practices that most enable effective teamwork. We used a novel method, qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), to identify cross-case patterns in 19 primary care practices in the Harvard Academic Innovations Collaborative (AIC), an initiative for transforming primary care practices by establishing teams and implementing team-based care. QCA findings identified that primary care practices with strong team dynamics exhibited strengths in three operational care process functionalities, including management of abnormal test results, cancer screening and medication management for high-priority patients, care transitions, and in health information technology (HIT) functionality. HIT functionality alone was not sufficient to achieve the desired outcomes. System functionalities in a primary care practice that support physicians and their teams in identifying patients with urgent and complex acute illnesses requiring immediate response and care and overcoming barriers to collaboration within and across institutional settings, may be essential for sustaining strong team-based primary care.
Information-Driven Integrated Healthcare: An Analysis of the Cooperation Strategy of County Medical Community Based on Multi-Subject Simulation
Authors: Dong Changqi , Liu Jida , Mi Jianing
Published: July 2023

The fragmentation and uneven quality of primary medical resources in China call for a deepening of integrated healthcare reform. China is promoting its county medical community (CMC) reform on a large scale in county-level administrative regions to promote the integration of local primary healthcare systems through information technology, which is consistent with the current trend of the digital governance era. Considering that the construction of a county medical community involves collaborative relationships between multi-level subjects, the evolutionary game theory was adopted in this study to construct a game model between the lead hospital of a CMC and primary healthcare institutions, and then the incentives of government department support were introduced to analyze the behavioral evolution of these three subjects. Taking into account the uncertainty of the real-life environment and information transformation, white Gaussian noise was introduced as a random disturbance term, and a numerical simulation was performed. In the two-subject model we focus on four parameters: information and management authority ceded by the primary healthcare institutions, integration coefficient of CMC information construction, intensity factor of information integration in the CMC, and medical resources delivered by the lead hospital. In the three-subject model we focus on three parameters: information and portion of authority ceded by the primary healthcare institutions and government departments, policy effect coefficient of CMC construction, and intensity of government departments’ support for CMC construction. The simulation results show that there is a positive incentive for the concession of management power and information from the primary healthcare institutions to the lead hospital, but further determination of empowerment boundaries is needed. The lead hospital can improve the balance of medical resources in the county through the downward transfer of medical resources, but long-term resource delivery may inhibit the enthusiasm of the lead hospital. An improvement in the information integration intensity of the CMC can promote the efficient flow of information and knowledge and enhance the organizational closeness of the county medical community. At the same time, the integration of CMC information construction reduces the cost of collaboration among medical community members and streamlines and consolidates business modules, which can promote more efficient use of medical resources. The government departments’ policies and funds provide obvious incentives to the lead hospital and primary healthcare institutions, but there is a need to explore appropriate financial payment ratios to balance the government’s financial pressure.
Relationships among Square Dance, Group Cohesion, Perceived Social Support, and Psychological Capital in 2721 Middle-Aged and Older Adults in China
Authors: Qu Yujia , Liu Zhiyuan , Wang Yan , Chang Lei , Fan Hongying
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Aging is a global phenomenon, and China’s aging is extensive and rapid and already at the middle to upper level worldwide. Promoting social interaction and increasing positive psychological qualities in individuals are key components in helping people adapt to the physical and mental changes of the aging process. Among them, how middle-aged and older adults improve their physical and mental health through physical activity is of great concern. (2) Methods: This study measured the physical activity of 2721 middle-aged and elderly square dance participants across China, and structural equation modeling was applied to explore the relationship between square dance exercise and group cohesion as well as the role of perceived social support and psychological capital. (3) Results: The results showed that (a) square dance exercise positively predicts group cohesion among middle-aged and older adults. (b) Perceived social support and psychological capital mediate the relationship between square dance exercise and group cohesion, and the mediating role consists of three pathways: perceived social support alone, psychological capital alone, and perceived social support-psychological capital chain mediation. (c) The mediating effect of psychological capital alone is greater than the mediating effect of perceived social support alone and the mediating effect of the perceived social support-psychological capital chain. (4) Conclusions: This study provides support for the theory and practice of square dance exercise and intervention guidance for increasing positive psychological qualities and group dynamic levels in middle-aged and older adults.
A Roadmap for Craft Understanding, Education, Training, and Preservation
Authors: Zabulis Xenophon , Partarakis Nikolaos , Demeridou Ioanna , Doulgeraki Paraskevi , Zidianakis Emmanouil , Argyros Antonis , Theodoridou Maria , Marketakis Yannis , Meghini Carlo , Bartalesi Valentina , Pratelli Nicolò , Holz Christian , Streli Paul , Meier Manuel , Seidler Matias Katajavaara , Werup Laura , Sichani Peiman Fallahian , Manitsaris Sotiris , Senteri Gavriela , Dubois Arnaud , Ringas Chistodoulos , Ziova Aikaterini , Tasiopoulou Eleana , Kaplanidi Danai , Arnaud David , Hee Patricia , Canavate Gregorio , Benvenuti Marie-Adelaide , Krivokapic Jelena
Published: July 2023

A roadmap is proposed that defines a systematic approach for craft preservation and its evaluation. The proposed roadmap aims to deepen craft understanding so that blueprints of appropriate tools that support craft documentation, education, and training can be designed while achieving preservation through the stimulation and diversification of practitioner income. In addition to this roadmap, an evaluation strategy is proposed to validate the efficacy of the developed results and provide a benchmark for the efficacy of craft preservation approaches. The proposed contribution aims at the catalyzation of craft education and training with digital aids, widening access and engagement to crafts, economizing learning, increasing exercisability, and relaxing remoteness constraints in craft learning.
Genome-Wide Association Mapping of Oil Content and Seed-Related Traits in Shea Tree (Vitellaria paradoxa subsp. nilotica) Populations
Authors: Odoi Juventine Boaz , Adjei Emmanuel Amponsah , Barnor Michael Teye , Edema Richard , Gwali Samson , Danquah Agyemang , Odong Thomas Lapaka , Hendre Prasad
Published: July 2023

Shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) is an important fruit tree crop because of its oil used for cooking and the industrial manufacture of cosmetics. Despite its essential benefits, quantitative trait loci linked to the economic traits have not yet been studied. In this study, we performed association mapping on a panel of 374 shea tree accessions using 7530 Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) markers for oil yield and seed-related traits. Twenty-three SNP markers significantly (−log10 (p) = 4.87) associated with kernel oil content, kernel length, width, and weight were identified. The kernel oil content and kernel width had the most significant marker–trait associations (MTAs) on chromosomes 1 and 8, respectively. Sixteen candidate genes identified were linked to early induction of flower buds and somatic embryos, seed growth and development, substrate binding, transport, lipid biosynthesis, metabolic processes during seed germination, and disease resistance and abiotic stress adaptation. The presence of these genes suggests their role in promoting bioactive functions that condition high oil synthesis in shea seeds. This study provides insights into the important marker-linked seed traits and the genes controlling them, useful for molecular breeding for improving oil yield in the species.
Disparities in Smokefree and Vapefree Home Rules and Smokefree Policy Attitudes Based on Housing Type and Cigarette Smoking Status, United States, 2019
Authors: Reyes-Guzman Carolyn M. , Patel Minal , Wang Teresa W. , Corcy Nalini , Chomenko Dana , Slotman Beth , Vollinger Robert E.
Published: July 2023

This study examined variations in cigarette smoking status, home smoking and vaping rules, and attitudes toward smoking rules among U.S. adults. We analyzed data from the 2019 U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey Supplements (n = 40,296 adults) and calculated weighted prevalence estimates of adult cigarette smoking based on housing type. In 2019, multi-unit housing (MUH) residents who currently smoked were predominantly residents of privately rented housing (66.9%), followed by privately owned (17.6%) and public housing (15.5%). MUH residents who currently smoked had the highest proportions of allowing smoking (26.7%) or vaping (29.1%) anywhere inside their homes and were least likely to support rules allowing smoking inside all MUH apartments or living areas. In the adjusted models, MUH residents with a current smoking status were 92% less likely to have a complete smoking ban. More than one in four MUH residents with a current smoking status allowed all smoking inside the home and supported allowing smoking inside all MUH apartment or living areas, reinforcing how MUH residents may be at higher risk of experiencing secondhand smoke or aerosol exposure, or incursions within their places of residence. Our results can inform the development, implementation, and sustainment of strategies to reduce exposures from tobacco and nicotine products in all living environments.
Match Running Performance Profile and Heart Rate Response in Amputee Soccer Players
Authors: Panagiotopoulou Foteini-Vasiliki , Michailidis Yiannis , Mandroukas Athanasios , Mavropoulos Aris , Tsimaras Vasilios , Nikolaidis Pantelis T. , Christoulas Kosmas , Metaxas Thomas
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The purpose of this study was (a) to create a profile of the running performances of male amputee soccer players in different speed zones, (b) to investigate the relationship between heart rate (HR) and running distance in two soccer matches, and (c) to study the effect of the level of amputation on the running distance covered during a match. Material and Methods: The participants were male amputee soccer players (n = 10, Greek, n = 5; Belgian, n = 5) who played two international, friendly matches. Distances were measured using a global positioning system, and HRs were recorded using a Polar Team Pro. Results: No differences in the distances covered were observed between participants with different levels of amputation (p > 0.05). Nevertheless, there was a trend that participants with a below-the-knee amputation tended to cover longer distances in total (difference +262.3 m, Cohen’s d = 0.40) and in zones 2 (+324.4 m, d = 0.79), 3 (+ 7.1 m, d = 0.65), 4 (+22.7 m, d = 0.43), and 5 (+0.4 m, d = 0.20) and less distance in zone 1 (−207.2 m, d = 0.88). They also tended to perform more accelerations (+3.9, d = 0.89) and decelerations (+4.2, d = 0.87) and had a higher mean HR (+8.4%, d = 2.04) than those with an above-the-knee amputation. Moreover, the mean HR corresponded to 83.3% of the HRmax and did not correlate with distance in any speed zone. Conclusions: It was concluded that the level of amputation might influence running performance and acute physiological response during a soccer match.