bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Effect of Packing Materials (Fills) and Flow Rate on the Range and Efficiency of a Forced Draft Evaporative Cooling Tower
Authors: Shinde Swapnil , Gulhane Nitin , Taler Jan , Ocłoń Paweł , Taler Dawid , de Lieto Vollaro Roberto
Published: July 2023

In the present study, experimental investigation is carried out on two different kinds of packing materials (fills). PVC fills that are traditionally used in the industry are compared and analyzed against the cellulose-based paper fills. Different mass flow rates of air are used to study the effect of the flow rate of air on the forced draft cooling tower. The volume flow rate of water also varied, and the range of the cooling tower, along with efficiency, was analyzed. Along with these two parameters, the effect of inlet water temperature on the performance of the tower was studied. Cooling tower efficiency was plotted against different L/G ratios ranging from 0.95 to 7.67. Results showed that the type of packing has a significant impact on the cooling tower performance. Paper fills gave a maximum cooling tower efficiency and range equal to 93.12% and 16.5 °C, respectively. The optimal L/G ratio range of 0.96 to 1.44 was identified as the point at which the cooling tower demonstrated its highest performance. The effect of the mass flow rate of water on the performance of the tower was far greater compared to the volume flow rate of water and inlet water temperature. The paper fills are found to be most effective under current experimental conditions, and the same can be implemented in the industrial towers under a wide spectrum of inlet water temperatures, mass flow rates of air, and volume flow rates of water.
A Review of the Data-Driven Prediction Method of Vehicle Fuel Consumption
Authors: Zhao Dengfeng , Li Haiyang , Hou Junjian , Gong Pengliang , Zhong Yudong , He Wenbin , Fu Zhijun
Published: July 2023

Accurately and efficiently predicting the fuel consumption of vehicles is the key to improving their fuel economy. This paper provides a comprehensive review of data-driven fuel consumption prediction models. Firstly, by classifying and summarizing relevant data that affect fuel consumption, it was pointed out that commonly used data currently involve three aspects: vehicle performance, driving behavior, and driving environment. Then, from the model structure, the predictive energy and the characteristics of the traditional machine learning model (support vector machine, random forest), the neural network model (artificial neural network and deep neural network), and this paper point out that: (1) the prediction model of fuel consumption based on neural networks has a higher data processing ability, higher training speed, and stable prediction ability; (2) by combining the advantages of different models to build a hybrid model for fuel consumption prediction, the prediction accuracy of fuel consumption can be greatly improved; (3) when comparing the relevant indicts, both the neural network method and the hybrid model consistently exhibit a coefficient of determination above 0.90 and a root mean square error below 0.40. Finally, the summary and prospect analysis are given based on various models’ predictive performance and application status.
Research on the Collaborative Optimization of the Power Distribution Network and Traffic Network Based on Dynamic Traffic Allocation
Authors: Zhang Baoqun , Gong Cheng , Wang Yan , Ma Longfei , Zhang Dongying , Xia Shiwei
Published: July 2023

With the increasing penetration rate of electric vehicles, the spatiotemporal coupling relationship between the power distribution network and traffic network is stronger than ever before. Under the dynamic wireless charging mode, traffic jam charging is introduced and the dynamic loading process of traffic flow is described using a cellular transmission model. The charging load is related to traffic flow and serves as a bond between the power distribution network and traffic network. The traffic flow achieves balanced allocation under dynamic user equilibrium conditions, and cooperatively optimizes the power flow of the power distribution network in conjunction with charging loads. Numerical analysis shows that this model can accurately depict the congestion situation during peak travel periods, and alleviate traffic congestion and distribution network voltage out of range.
Analysis of Flow and Pressure Drop on Tube Side of Spiral Tube Heat Exchanger under Sloshing Conditions
Authors: Li Fengzhi , Tian Zhongyun , Jiang Yiqiang , Zheng Wenke , Chen Jie , Li Shulei
Published: July 2023

The utilization of the spiral tube heat exchanger (SHE) has become increasingly prevalent in large-scale liquefaction processes. However, the flow pattern and frictional pressure drop of two-phase flow in the spiral tube have been scarcely studied, particularly under offshore sloshing conditions. An experimental system had been developed to explore the flow pattern and frictional pressure drop characteristics of mixed hydrocarbon fluid in a spiral tube. Moreover, these have been developed in order to examine the effects of sloshing style (roll, pitch, heave), sloshing period (5–15 s), sloshing amplitude (5–15° or 50–150 mm), mass flux (200–800 kg/(m2·s)), vapor quality (0–1), and saturation pressure (2–4 MPa) on the frictional pressure drop of methane/ethane mixture in the spiral tube. The results indicated that sloshing conditions reduce the frictional pressure drop, thereby enhancing fluid flow. A correlation was established to predict the sloshing factor of frictional pressure drop, and the MARD under verification conditions was 6.04%. Furthermore, three flow pattern boundaries were proposed based on We* as an indicator.
Experimental and Kinetic Study on Laminar Burning Velocities of High Ratio Hydrogen Addition to CH4+O2+N2 and NG+O2+N2 Flames
Authors: Zhang Ziyue , Zhu Runfan , Zhu Yanqun , Weng Wubin , He Yong , Wang Zhihua
Published: July 2023

In 2020, energy-related CO2 emissions reached 31.5 Gt, leading to an unprecedented atmospheric CO2 level of 412.5 ppm. Hydrogen blending in natural gas (NG) is a solution for maximizing clean energy utilization and enabling long-distance H2 transport through pipelines. However, insufficient comprehension concerning the combustion characteristics of NG, specifically when blended with a high proportion of hydrogen up to 80%, particularly with minority species, persists. Utilizing the heat flux method at room temperature and 1 atm, this experiment investigated the laminar burning velocities of CH4/NG/H2/air/He flames incorporating minority species, specifically C2H6 and C3H8, within NG. The results point out the regularity of SL enhancement, reaching its maximum at an equivalence ratio of 1.4. Furthermore, the propensity for the enhancement of laminar burning velocity aligned with the observed thermoacoustic oscillation instability during fuel-rich regimes. The experimental findings were contrasted with kinetic simulations, utilizing the GRI 3.0 and San Diego mechanisms to facilitate analysis. The inclusion of H2 augments the chemical reactions within the preheating zone, while the thermal effect from temperature is negligible. Both experimental and simulated results revealed that CH4 and NG with a large proportion of H2 had no difference, no matter whether from a laminar burning velocity or a kinetic analysis aspect.
Numerical Study of the Impact of Transverse Ribs on the Energy Potential of Air-Based BIPV/T Envelope Systems
Authors: Nghana Barilelo , Tariku Fitsum , Bitsuamlak Girma
Published: July 2023

Overheating in BIPV/T applications is a concern due to its negative impacts on the electrical conversion efficiency of the solar cells. Forced air cooling can be an effective thermal management strategy. However, its effectiveness is limited by the thermal resistance associated with the boundary layer formation on the walls of the air channel. The heat transfer effectiveness can be improved by appending transverse ribs to the BIPV/T air channel. This study numerically investigates the energy improvements associated with appending transverse ribs to a BIPV/T air channel using CFD. The impact of the varying the transverse rib roughness shape, pitch and height on the thermo-hydraulic performance parameter, electrical efficiency of the BIPV and building heating/cooling load is quantified. With the optimized transverse rib geometry, the heat removal rate is 2.73 times greater than with the smooth channel. This translated to a 30.5% reduction in the PV surface temperature and an increase in the electrical efficiency by 11.3% compared with the smooth channel under peak summer conditions for a mild oceanic climate. The wall heat gain during summer is also reduced by 45.2%.
Assessment of Summer Branch Drop: A Case Study in Four Portuguese Cities
Authors: S. F. Linhares Camila , Gonçalves Raquel , Dias Alfredo , Knapic Sofia , Martins Luis M.
Published: July 2023

This paper addresses the problem of summer branch drop (SBD) in urban forests, namely through detecting the causes of this unpredictable event, aiming at preventing and increasing the control of this phenomenon, while using the most recent methodologies to detect wood deterioration, namely visual tree assessment (VTA), drilling resistance, and acoustic tomography, in an isolated and associated way. The study considers events in the cities of Arcos de Valdevez in Viana do Castelo district (Site 1), Ponte de Lima in Viana do Castelo district (Site 2), Montemor-o-Novo in Évora district (Site 3), and Paços de Ferreira in Porto district (Site 4), targeting trees of public interest. Given the phytosanitary condition recognized using nondestructive equipment, a set of measures for the preservation of the tree elements and their history are suggested. SBD is mostly related to internal degradation. A VTA diagnosis, applied in isolation, could lead to an incorrect prognosis of the internal degradation. So, it is important to confirm of the presence of biotic agents through equipment (acoustic tomography and drilling resistance). Even with instrumental diagnostics, for reducing the subjectivity of the approach to estimating the SBD, a global analysis is necessary, including dendrometric parameters, predisposing or inciting factors, lower tree defences against internal degradation due to environmental conditions, and biotic agents.
Do All Types of Restorative Environments in the Urban Park Provide the Same Level of Benefits for Young Adults? A Field Experiment in Nanjing, China
Authors: Li Yuanbi , Zhang Jinguang , Jiang Bijun , Li Hongyi , Zhao Bing
Published: July 2023

Previous research has consistently shown that exposure to natural environments provides a variety of health benefits. The purpose of this study is to investigate the restorative benefits of non-virtual environments in field experiments as well as the differences in physiological and psychological effects between different types of restorative sites for stressed young adults. This controlled study design used the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), electroencephalogram (EEG), and heart rate variability (HRV) as psychophysiological indicators of individual affect and stress. We used a “stress imposition-greenspace recovery” pre- and post-test mode to simulate the most realistic short-term recovery experience in the park (Grassplots, Square, Forest, and Lakeside) under relatively free conditions. The experimental results show that all four natural spaces in the park have some degree of recovery. However, there were discernible differences in the restorative effects of four selected natural sites. Lakeside and Forest demonstrated the most robust restorative properties in terms of both negative emotion reduction and positive emotion enhancement. In contrast, Square showed the weakest facilitation of recovery, while Grassplots promoted moderate resilience. Physiologically, we found that the EEG-α% of the Square was significantly lower than the EEG-α% of the Forest (t = −3.56, p = 0.015). This means that stressed young adults were much more relaxed in the forest than in the paved square. The study answers which types of natural spaces, when considered together, would provide greater restorative benefits to stressed young people participating in natural therapies in urban parks. The study’s policy implications include the need to create more green natural spaces, especially forests with multiple plant levels, as well as to improve the restorative nature of urban parks through appropriate landscape space design.
How Does Vegetation Landscape Structure of Urban Green Spaces Affect Cultural Ecosystem Services at Multiscale: Based on PLS-SEM Model
Authors: Mao Qizheng , Hu Chanjuan , Guo Qinghai , Li Yuanzheng , Liu Min
Published: July 2023

Benefits of cultural ecosystem services (CESs) of urban green spaces (UGSs) for human health and general well-being have been widely recognized. Optimizing the landscape structure of green vegetation and improving CES are essential to reduce environmental inequality, and detecting the determinant landscape features that influence CES at multi-scale is the first step. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), we evaluated multiscale effects of vegetation landscape structure of UGS on residents’ perceptions of CES in 40 residential communities in Zhengzhou city, China. According to our results, at the micro-scale level in a single residential community, public activity spaces within green spaces, particularly large size of open spaces, was the most critical factor affecting residents’ perceptions of recreational services, which provided a multifunctional landscape, with opportunities for multiple recreational leisure activities and entertainment. Then, the percentage of vegetation coverage in green spaces, and large vegetation patches that can significantly improve residents’ perceptions of CES and were identified in the natural landscape. At the ecosystem level and species community level, although vegetation structure contributed little to the level of CES, an open vegetation structure with a large area of grass cover was particularly beneficial to increase aesthetic services, and both richness of flowers and ornamental trees improved residents’ spiritual perception. However, our findings suggest that improving the management of green space vegetation is the most effective and direct way of improving CES and resolving environmental inequities between residential communities with different vegetation coverage and infrastructure, and we suggest that future research should explore residents’ subjective perceptions of both vegetation and landscape structure of UGS at larger spatial scale.
Dry Matter Content and Additives with Different Modes of Action Modify the Preservation Characteristics of Grass Silage
Authors: Franco Marcia , Rinne Marketta
Published: July 2023

Two experiments evaluated how grass silage quality can be manipulated by various management options. In Experiment 1, silage characteristics were evaluated at two dry matter (DM) contents and treated with additives presenting different modes of action. Timothy grass was ensiled at low (224 g/kg) and high (534 g/kg) DM contents and five additives were applied: 1. control (C), 2. homofermentative lactic acid bacteria inoculant (HO), 3. heterofermentative lactic acid bacteria inoculant (HE), 4. salt-based additive (SA) and 5. Formic- and propionic-acid-based additive (FPA). A higher DM content and FPA restricted silage fermentation, and additive effects were generally greater in low rather than high DM silages. The chemical additives SA and FPA resulted in the highest aerobic stability, while the HE improved it at a high DM content. In Experiment 2, the low DM content grass was ensiled utilizing resin acids, as follows: 1. C, 2. FPA, 3. Resin acid oil (FOR) at 13 L/t, 4. FOR at 26 L/t, 5. Resin acid soluble in water (ROS) at 13 L/t and 6. ROS at 26 L/t. Wilting combined with additives improved the preservation characteristics of grass silages (Experiment 1), but resin acid products failed to modify silage fermentation compared to the control (Experiment 2).
Feasibility Study of Biohydrogen Production from Acid Cheese Whey via Lactate-Driven Dark Fermentation
Authors: Aranda-Jaramillo Brenda , León-Becerril Elizabeth , Aguilar-Juárez Oscar , Castro-Muñoz Roberto , García-Depraect Octavio
Published: July 2023

The high loading of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) present in cheese whey still limits its use as hydrogen feedstock. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of producing hydrogen from acid cheese whey via lactate-driven dark fermentation (LD-DF). Mesophilic batch fermentations were performed with delipidated acid cheese whey at a fixed pH of 5.8 and driven by an acidogenic bacterial culture containing LAB and lactate-oxidizing hydrogen producers (LO-HPB). The results obtained indicated that it is technically feasible to produce hydrogen from undiluted cheese whey through lactate oxidation-mediated fermentation. It was elucidated that the acidogenic fermentation of cheese whey followed a two-step lactate-type fermentation, in which fermentable carbohydrates were first converted into lactate, and then lactate was metabolized into hydrogen with the co-production of butyrate. The hydrogen yield and the maximum volumetric hydrogen production rate achieved were 44.5 ± 2.9 NmL/g-CODfed and 1.9 NL/L-d, respectively. Further microbial community analysis revealed that Lactobacillus, Clostridium, and Klebsiella were the dominant bacterial genera when the hydrogen production rate peaked. It was therefore suggested that the metabolic potential behind the association between LAB and LO-HPB was important in driving the two-step lactate-type fermentation. Overall, the LD-DF can be a strategic hydrogen-producing pathway to be implemented with cheese whey.
Physiochemical and Sensory Properties of Bread Fortified with Wheat Bran and Whey Protein Isolates
Authors: Pořízka Jaromír , Slavíková Zuzana , Bidmonová Karolína , Vymětalová Miroslava , Diviš Pavel
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the effect of fortifying baked goods with wheat bran (WBPI) and whey protein isolates (WPI) on their physicochemical and sensory properties. The aim was to enhance the nutritional value by incorporating high-protein ingredients. WBPI and WPI, which are rich in essential amino acids, were chosen to create high-protein flour blends. The main advantage of WBPI is that it is derived from readily available and inexpensive wheat bran. High-protein flour blends fortified with substitutions of 5%, 10%, and 15% flour with WBPI and WPI were subjected to chemical and rheological analysis. WBPI substitution slightly increased water binding and softening, but it resulted in a decrease in dough quality. In contrast, WPI substitution prolonged dough development time, improved dough stability, and enhanced farinographic quality. WBPI-substituted dough exhibited comparable extensographic properties to the reference flour, with 5% WBPI substitution leading to improved energy and dough resistance. However, as the level of WBPI flour substitution increased, extensographic parameters gradually declined without further enhancing the dough’s mechanical properties. Samples with 5% WPI substitution demonstrated superior mechanical properties compared to the reference sample. Baguette with high WBPI substitution was associated with reduced overall acceptance due to a bitter taste caused by the presence of small peptides, ferulic acid, and tannins, as confirmed by correlation analysis.
Cuticular Wax Triterpenes Maintain Storage Quality of Blueberries by Reducing Water Loss
Authors: Kong Qi , Liu Ruiling , Wu Weijie , Fang Xiangjun , Chen Hangjun , Han Yanchao , Chen Jianye
Published: July 2023

Cuticular wax contributes to maintaining postharvest storage quality against fruit water loss and softening. Triterpenoids, such as oleanolic acid (OA) and ursolic acid (UA), are the main components in blueberry cuticular wax, but their role in water migration during the storage of blueberries remains to be determined. Here, we examined the relationship between the content of OA and UA and the storage quality of blueberry fruit (25 °C). The results revealed that the UA content during eight-day postharvest storage ranged from 58 to 77 μg cm−2, which was negatively related to weight loss. Additionally, we investigated the effect of exogenous OA and UA on water migration in the blueberry fruit during storage at room temperature; the weight loss was significantly lower (by 22%) with UA treatment than in the control fruit. Our findings indicate that OA and UA effectively affect water migration in blueberry fruit during postharvest storage, which could contribute to improving postharvest preservation techniques.
Stability and Optimal Control of a Fractional SEQIR Epidemic Model with Saturated Incidence Rate
Authors: Sun Deguo , Li Qing , Zhao Wencai
Published: July 2023

The fractional differential equation has a memory property and is suitable for biomathematical modeling. In this paper, a fractional SEQIR epidemic model with saturated incidence and vaccination is constructed. Firstly, for the deterministic fractional system, the threshold conditions for the local and global asymptotic stability of the equilibrium point are obtained by using the stability theory of the fractional differential equation. If R0<1, the disease-free equilibrium is asymptotically stable, and the disease is extinct; when R0>1, the endemic equilibrium is asymptotically stable and the disease persists. Secondly, for the stochastic system of integer order, the stochastic stability near the positive equilibrium point is discussed. The results show that if the intensity of environmental noise is small enough, the system is stochastic stable, and the disease will persist. Thirdly, the control variables are coupled into the fractional differential equation to obtain the fractional control system, the objective function is constructed, and the optimal control solution is obtained by using the maximum principle. Finally, the correctness of the theoretical derivation is verified by numerical simulation.
Phase Inversion-Based Doxycycline Hyclate-Incorporated Borneol In Situ Gel for Periodontitis Treatment
Authors: Lertsuphotvanit Nutdanai , Tuntarawongsa Sarun , Chantadee Takron , Phaechamud Thawatchai
Published: July 2023

Borneol has been successfully employed as a gelling agent for in situ forming gel (ISG). While 40% borneol can regulate drug release, there is interest in novel approaches to achieve extended drug release, particularly through the incorporation of hydrophobic substances. Herein, triacetin was selected as a hydrophobic additive solvent for doxycycline hyclate (Dox)-loaded 40% borneol-based ISGs in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), which were subsequently evaluated in terms of their physicochemical properties, gel formation morphology, water sensitivity, drug release, and antimicrobial activities. ISG density and viscosity gradually decreased with the triacetin proportion to a viscosity of <12 cPs and slightly influenced the surface tension (33.14–44.33 mN/m). The low expelled force values (1.59–2.39 N) indicated the convenience of injection. All of the prepared ISGs exhibited favorable wettability and plastic deformation. Higher gel firmness from ISG prepared using NMP as a solvent contributed to the ability of more efficient controlled drug release. High triacetin (25%)-loaded ISG retarded solvent diffusion and gel formation, but diminished gel firmness and water sensitivity. ISG containing 5% triacetin efficiently prolonged Dox release up to 10 days with Fickian diffusion and presented effective antimicrobial activities against periodontitis pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Therefore, the Dox-loaded 40% borneol-based ISG with 5% triacetin is a potential effective local ISG for periodontitis treatment.
Variation in Rice Plastid Genomes in Wide Crossing Reveals Dynamic Nucleo–Cytoplasmic Interaction
Authors: Yang Weilong , Zou Jianing , Wang Jiajia , Li Nengwu , Luo Xiaoyun , Jiang Xiaofen , Li Shaoqing
Published: July 2023

Plastid genomes (plastomes) of angiosperms are well known for their relative stability in size, structure, and gene content. However, little is known about their heredity and variations in wide crossing. To such an end, the plastomes of five representative rice backcross inbred lines (BILs) developed from crosses of O. glaberrima/O. sativa were analyzed. We found that the size of all plastomes was about 134,580 bp, with a quadripartite structure that included a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions, a small single-copy (SSC) region and a large single-copy (LSC) region. They contained 76 protein genes, 4 rRNA genes, and 30 tRNA genes. Although their size, structure, and gene content were stable, repeat-mediated recombination, gene expression, and RNA editing were extensively changed between the maternal line and the BILs. These novel discoveries demonstrate that wide crossing causes not only nuclear genomic recombination, but also plastome variation in plants, and that the plastome plays a critical role in coordinating the nuclear–cytoplasmic interaction.
Hominid Alluvial Corridor (HAC) of the Guadalquivir and Guadaíra River Valleys (Southern Spain): Geoarchaeological Functionality of the Middle Paleolithic Assemblages during the Upper Pleistocene
Authors: Díaz del Olmo Fernando , Caro Gómez José A. , Borja Barrera César , Recio Espejo José M. , Cámara Artigas Rafael , Martínez Aguirre Aránzazu
Published: July 2023

This research addresses the geomorphological connectivity existing amid the piedmont’s karstic fillings (Sierra de Esparteros) and the Guadaíra and Guadalquivir Rivers’ alluvial terraces (SW of Spain), spotted with vestiges of human activities (Middle Palaeolithic). This study includes the analysis of 20 geoarchaeological sites and 28 lithic assemblages, with a total of 13,233 lithic pieces. Techno-typological and use–wear (SEM) analyses were conducted on these artifacts. Depending on the raw materials and the provenance of these lithic industries, two groups of assemblages were identified: one made of quartzite from the north, and another made of flint from the south. Two main geochronological periods were established (OSL and U/Th): (1) a short duration (MIS6/MIS5) and (2) a long duration (MIS5/MIS3). Techno-typological analysis showed three sorts of activities: (a) the provision and distribution of raw materials, (b) knapping, and (c) other activities that imply the use of a lithic workshop (LW), along with the settlement characteristics of habitual or recurrent (HS), temporary (TS), and indeterminate (IN). This geoarchaeological connectivity is called the “hominid alluvial corridor” (HAC). The underlined features are the geomorphological units, the continuum alluvial series, the raw material of the lithic industries as an indicator of provenance and transportation throughout the alluvial system, and the use–wear analysis of the tool-kit to interpret the functionality of the pieces.
Long-Term Impacts of COVID-19 Pneumonia on Quality of Life: A Single Institutional Pilot Study
Authors: Deesomchok Athavudh , Liwsrisakun Chalerm , Chaiwong Warawut , Pothirat Chaicharn , Duangjit Pilaiporn , Bumroongkit Chaiwat , Theerakittikul Theerakorn , Limsukon Atikun , Tajarernmuang Pattraporn , Trongtrakul Konlawij , Niyatiwatchanchai Nutchanok
Published: July 2023

Many studies have demonstrated poor quality of life (QoL) at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, these studies were limited due to cross-sectional design, a longer gap between visits, and lack of controls for comparison. Therefore, the aim of our prospective study was to assess the impact of COVID-19 pneumonia on QoL in both physical and mental health. A prospective study was conducted on adult patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. We used the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and Euro Quality of Life-5 Dimensions-5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L), EQ visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale to collect data at months, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12. Thirty-eight patients with COVID-19 pneumonia and twenty-five healthy subjects were completely followed up on all visits. All domains of SF-36, except bodily pain and EQ-5D-5L of the patients, were lower than controls. There was an improvement of EQ-VAS and SF-36 including physical functioning, social functioning, and role limitation (physical problems) domains throughout study period in the COVID-19 pneumonia group. Adult patients who recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia had lower QoL which improved over the one-year follow-up period.
The Senior Companion Program Plus: An Innovative Training Approach for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia
Authors: Fields Noelle L. , Xu Ling , Williams Ishan C. , Gaugler Joseph E. , Cipher Daisha J. , Cassidy Jessica , Feinhals Gretchen
Published: July 2023

African Americans adults are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) and are underrepresented in research about ADRD. Reducing gaps in the knowledge about ADRD in the African American community is important for addressing dementia care disparities. The existing psychoeducation interventions are often limited by cost and scalability; for these reasons, lay provider (i.e., volunteer) interventions are of increasing interest in ADRD research. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a training of African American Senior Companion (SC) volunteers (n = 11) with dementia-specific knowledge (i.e., Senior Companion Program/SCP Plus), as part of a culturally informed, in-home, psychoeducational intervention for African American ADRD family caregivers. Learning outcomes were measured pre- and post-training, using the Knowledge of Alzheimer’s Disease/dementia scale (KAD), the Sense of Competence Questionnaire, and the Preparedness for Caregiving Scale. The results showed significant improvements in knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease/dementia, one competence item, “It is clear to me how much care my care recipient needs”, and preparedness for caregiving. Overall, the study findings suggest the SCP Plus is a promising, culturally relevant, and potentially scalable lay provider training for ADRD with potential benefits that augment the existing Senior Companion Program.
Sedentary Behavior and Physical Activity of Community-Dwelling Korean Breast Cancer Survivors: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Lee Jung Soo , Park Mina , Kim Yeo Hyung
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to investigate the contemporary characteristics of sedentary behavior and physical activity levels in breast cancer survivors. The cross-sectional data of 10,073 community-dwelling Korean women aged ≥50 years in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. The differences in sedentary behavior, walking activity, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels between breast cancer survivors, other cancer survivors, and women with no history of cancer were compared by complex-sample general linear models. Breast cancer survivors spent significantly less mean time in sedentary behavior than other cancer survivors and women with no history of cancer; however, among them, 48.34% spent a long sedentary time of ≥420 min/day. Breast cancer survivors had a significantly higher level of walking activity and similar total MVPA levels compared to women with no history of cancer. When comparing domain-specific MVPA levels, breast cancer survivors showed significantly lower work-related MVPA levels than women with no history of cancer. In recent years, community-dwelling Korean breast cancer survivors were less sedentary, walked more, and had equivalent MVPA levels compared with women with no history of cancer. Considering the growing emphasis on healthy lifestyles, our results may reflect more contemporary behavior trends of breast cancer survivors.
The Prospective Effects of Coping Strategies on Mental Health and Resilience at Five Months after HSCT
Authors: Corman Maya , Dambrun Michael , Rubio Marie-Thérèse , Cabrespine Aurélie , Brindel Isabelle , Bay Jacques-Olivier , Peffault de La Tour Régis
Published: July 2023

Objectives: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is a stressful event that engenders psychological distress. This study examines the prospective effects of coping strategies during hospitalization on resilience and on various mental-health dimensions at five months after transplantation. Methods. One hundred and seventy patients (Mage = 52.24, SD = 13.25) completed a questionnaire assessing adjustment strategies during hospitalization, and 91 filled out a questionnaire five months after HSCT (Mage = 51.61, SD = 12.93). Results: Multiple regression analyses showed that a fighting spirit strategy positively predicted resilience (p < 0.05), whereas anxious preoccupations predicted anxiety (p < 0.05), poorer mental QoL (p < 0.01), and were associated with an increased risk of developing PTSD (OR = 3.27, p < 0.01; 95% CI: 1.36, 7.84) at five months after transplantation. Hopelessness, avoidance, and denial coping strategies were not predictive of any of the mental health outcomes. Finally, the number of transplantations was negatively related to a fighting spirit (p < 0.01) and positively related to hopelessness-helplessness (p < 0.001): Conclusions: These results highlight the importance of developing psychological interventions focused on coping to alleviate the negative psychological consequences of HSCT.
Musculoskeletal Injuries in Capoeira Athletes: An Epidemiological Study
Authors: Minghelli Beatriz
Published: July 2023

Capoeira involves fighting movements, turns, acrobatic jumps, and repeated movements, which can lead to injury. This study determined the incidence of injuries in capoeira athletes and analyzed the associated factors. The sample included 157 capoeira athletes, 94 (59.9%) of which were males aged 8–67 years. A questionnaire was administered; in the results, 95 (60.5%) athletes suffered injury during their entire capoeira practice, totaling 218 injuries, and 48 (30.6%) athletes had incurred an injury in the previous year, totaling 81 injuries. There were 0.85 injuries per 1000 h of capoeira training. The most common injuries were sprains (19.23%) and muscle bruises (14.10%), which were located in the ankles (20.51%) and knees (16.67%). Falls (24.36%) and repetitive movements (15.38%) were the most prevalent injury mechanisms. Male athletes presented a higher risk of sustaining capoeira-related injuries than women (odds ratio = 2.19; 95% CI: 1.05–4.61; p = 0.037). Individuals who trained equal to or more than three times per week were more at risk by 0.44 (p ≤ 0.001) than those who trained up to two times per week. This study showed a high prevalence of injuries in this sample. Sex (male) and a training frequency that was equal to or greater than three times per week were the associated risk factors. The data obtained can be used to create specific training programs for preventing injuries.
Artificial Intelligence in Evaluation of Permanent Impairment: New Operational Frontiers
Authors: Scendoni Roberto , Tomassini Luca , Cingolani Mariano , Perali Andrea , Pilati Sebastiano , Fedeli Piergiorgio
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) span multiple disciplines, including the medico-legal sciences, also with reference to the concept of disease and disability. In this context, the International Classification of Diseases, Injuries, and Causes of Death (ICD) is a standard for the classification of diseases and related problems developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), and it represents a valid tool for statistical and epidemiological studies. Indeed, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) is outlined as a classification that aims to describe the state of health of people in relation to their existential spheres (social, family, work). This paper lays the foundations for proposing an operating model for the use of AI in the assessment of impairments with the aim of making the information system as homogeneous as possible, starting from the main coding systems of the reference pathologies and functional damages. Providing a scientific basis for the understanding and study of health, as well as establishing a common language for the assessment of disability in its various meanings through AI systems, will allow for the improvement and standardization of communication between the various expert users.
Unraveling the Pomegranate Genome: Comprehensive Analysis of R2R3-MYB Transcription Factors
Authors: Suo Heming , Zhang Xuan , Hu Lei , Ni Huihui , Langjia Renzeng , Yuan Fangyu , Zhang Maowen , Zhang Shuiming
Published: July 2023

R2R3-MYB TFs represent one of the most extensive gene families in plants and play a crucial role in regulating plant development, metabolite accumulation, and defense responses. Nevertheless, there has been no systematic investigation into the pomegranate R2R3-MYB family. In this study, 186 R2R3-MYB genes were identified from the pomegranate genome and grouped into 34 subgroups based on phylogenetic analysis. Gene structure analysis showed that the PgR2R3-MYB family in the same subgroup had a similar structure. Gene duplication event analysis revealed that the amplification of the PgMYB family was driven by Whole Genome Duplication (WGD) and dispersed duplication. In the upstream promoter sequence of the PgMYB gene, we identified a large number of plant hormones and environmental response elements. Using phylogenetic analysis and RNA-seq analysis, we identified three PgMYB TFs that may be involved in the regulation of lignin synthesis. Their expression patterns were verified by qPCR experiments. This study provides a solid foundation for further studies on the function of the R2R3-MYB gene and the molecular mechanism of lignin synthesis.
Severe Typhoid Fever Complicated by Superior Mesenteric and Splenic Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Veronese Piero , Pappalardo Marco , Maffini Valentina , Rubini Monica , Giacometti Alessandra , Ruozi Maria Beatrice , Cella Simone , Dodi Icilio
Published: July 2023

Typhoid fever (Typhoid or enteric fever) is still the most common bacterial bloodstream infection worldwide, caused by Salmonella typhi. The transmission route is indirect through passive vehicles such as contaminated water or food. Main clinical findings are a fever lasting more than three days, abdominal symptoms, leukocytosis, and anemia. Typhoid can cause a wide range of multi-organ complications. We report a particularly severe form of this infection complicated by superior mesenteric vein and splenic vein thrombosis, an extremely uncommon manifestation.
Indigenous Peoples’ Experience and Understanding of Menstrual and Gynecological Health in Australia, Canada and New Zealand: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ciccia Donna , Doyle Aunty Kerrie , Ng Cecilia H. M. , Armour Mike
Published: July 2023

There are a variety of cultural and religious beliefs and customs worldwide related to menstruation, and these often frame discussing periods and any gynecological issues as taboo. While there has been previous research on the impact of these beliefs on menstrual health literacy, this has almost entirely been confined to low- and middle-income countries, with very little information on high-income countries. This project used the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) scoping review methodology to systematically map the extent and range of evidence of health literacy of menstruation and gynecological disorders in Indigenous people in the colonized, higher-income countries of Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. PubMed, CINHAL, PsycInfo databases, and the grey literature were searched in March 2022. Five studies from Australia and New Zealand met the inclusion criteria. Only one of the five included studies focused exclusively on menstrual health literacy among the Indigenous population. Despite considerable research on menstrual health globally, studies focusing on understanding the menstrual health practices of the Indigenous populations of Australia, New Zealand, and Canada are severely lacking, and there is little to no information on how Indigenous beliefs of colonized people may differ from the broader society in which they live.
Respiratory Health Impacts of Outdoor Air Pollution and the Efficacy of Local Risk Communication in Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Zhou Jiang , Gladson Laura , Díaz Suárez Valeria , Cromar Kevin
Published: July 2023

Relatively few studies on the adverse health impacts of outdoor air pollution have been conducted in Latin American cities, whose pollutant mixtures and baseline health risks are distinct from North America, Europe, and Asia. This study evaluates respiratory morbidity risk associated with ambient air pollution in Quito, Ecuador, and specifically evaluates if the local air quality index accurately reflects population-level health risks. Poisson generalized linear models using air pollution, meteorological, and hospital admission data from 2014 to 2015 were run to quantify the associations of air pollutants and index values with respiratory outcomes in single- and multi-pollutant models. Significant associations were observed for increased respiratory hospital admissions and ambient concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2), although some of these associations were attenuated in two-pollutant models. Significant associations were also observed for index values, but these values were driven almost entirely by daily O3 concentrations. Modifications to index formulation to more fully incorporate the health risks of multiple pollutants, particularly for NO2, have the potential to greatly improve risk communication in Quito. This work also increases the equity of the existing global epidemiological literature by adding new air pollution health risk values from a highly understudied region of the world.
Assessment of Forest Ecological Security in China Based on DPSIRM Model: Taking 11 Provincial Administrative Regions along the Yangtze River Basin as Examples
Authors: Guo Yanlong , Ma Xingmeng , Zhu Yelin , Chen Denghang , Zhang Han
Published: July 2023

China’s forest ecological problems are becoming increasingly serious, especially in the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) area. The basin has rich species resources and a well-developed natural forest management and conservation policy. Taking the YRB as the object, we combine the DPSIRM model to build a forest evaluation system containing 6 criterion layers and 24 indicator layers. The entropy weight method-TOPSIS and ArcGIS were combined to assess the forest state and the distribution characteristics of the 11 regions. Furthermore, grey relational analysis (GRA) was used to study the influencing factors of forest status. The results are as follows: (1) the comprehensive index of the YRB forests increased by 192.66% during the study period. The forest status showed the stage characteristics of small climb, basic flatness, and significant improvement. (2) The forest status varied significantly among provinces (cities), with Tibet (0.483) in the best condition and Qinghai (0.103) in a worse condition. (3) Except for Tibet, the rest of the regions are more influenced by the extent of development of the economy. (4) The factor most strongly correlated with the YRB is the forest response (R) indicator.
miRNAs in Neurological Manifestation in Patients Co-Infected with SARS-CoV-2 and Herpesvírus 6 (HHV-6)
Authors: Carneiro Vanessa Cristine de Souza , Moreira Otacilio da Cruz , Coelho Wagner Luis da Costa Nunes Pimentel , Rio Beatriz Chan , Sarmento Dmitry José de Santana , Salvio Andreza Lemos , Alves-Leon Soniza Vieira , de Paula Vanessa Salete , Leon Luciane Almeida Amado
Published: July 2023

Human herpesviruses (HHVs) can establish latency and be reactivated, also are neurotropic viruses that can trigger neurological disorders. HHV-6 is a herpesvirus that is associated with neurological disorders. Studies have reported the detection of HHV-6 in patients with COVID-19 and neurological manifestations. However, specific diagnoses of the neurological disorders caused by these viruses tend to be invasive or difficult to interpret. This study aimed to establish a relationship between miRNA and neurological manifestations in patients co-infected with COVID-19 and HHV-6 and evaluate miRNAs as potential biomarkers. Serum samples from COVID-19 patients in the three cohorts were analyzed. miRNA analysis by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) revealed miRNAs associated with neuroinflammation were highly expressed in patients with neurological disorders and HHV-6 detection. When compared with the group of patients without detection of HHVs DNA and without neurological alterations, the group with detection of HHV-6 DNA and neurological alteration, displayed significant differences in the expression of mir-21, mir-146a, miR-155 and miR-let-7b (p < 0.01). Our results reinforce the involvement of miRNAs in neurological disorders and provide insights into their use as biomarkers for neurological disorders triggered by HHV-6. Furthermore, understanding the expression of miRNAs may contribute to therapeutic strategies.
The Combined Use of Copper Sulfate and Trichlorfon Exerts Stronger Toxicity on the Liver of Zebrafish
Authors: Zhang Jianlu , Zhu Mingzhen , Wang Qijun , Yang Hui
Published: July 2023

In aquaculture, copper sulphate and trichlorfon are commonly used as disinfectants and insecticide, sometimes in combination. However, improper use can result in biotoxicity and increased ecological risks. The liver plays a crucial role in detoxification, lipid metabolism, nutrient storage, and immune function in fish. Selecting the liver as the main target organ for research helps to gain an in-depth understanding of various aspects of fish physiology, health, and adaptability. In the present study, zebrafish were exposed to Cu (0.5 mg/L) and Tri (0.5 mg/L) alone and in combination for 21 days. The results demonstrate that both Cu and Tri caused hepatocyte structure damage in zebrafish after 21 days of exposure, with the combination showing an even greater toxicity. Additionally, the antioxidant and immune enzyme activities in zebrafish liver were significantly induced on both day 7 and day 21. A transcriptome analysis revealed that Cu and Tri, alone and in combination, impacted various physiological activities differently, including metabolism, growth, and immunity. Overall, Cu and Tri, either individually or in combination, can induce tissue damage by generating oxidative stress in the body, and the longer the exposure duration, the stronger the toxic effects. Moreover, the combined exposure to Cu and Tri exhibits enhanced toxicity. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the combined use of heavy metal disinfectants and other drugs.
SLO3: A Conserved Regulator of Sperm Membrane Potential
Authors: Lyon Maximilian D. , Ferreira Juan J. , Li Ping , Bhagwat Shweta , Butler Alice , Anderson Kelsey , Polo Maria , Santi Celia M.
Published: July 2023

Sperm cells must undergo a complex maturation process after ejaculation to be able to fertilize an egg. One component of this maturation is hyperpolarization of the membrane potential to a more negative value. The ion channel responsible for this hyperpolarization, SLO3, was first cloned in 1998, and since then much progress has been made to determine how the channel is regulated and how its function intertwines with various signaling pathways involved in sperm maturation. Although Slo3 was originally thought to be present only in the sperm of mammals, recent evidence suggests that a primordial form of the gene is more widely expressed in some fish species. Slo3, like many reproductive genes, is rapidly evolving with low conservation between closely related species and different regulatory and pharmacological profiles. Despite these differences, SLO3 appears to have a conserved role in regulating sperm membrane potential and driving large changes in response to stimuli. The effect of this hyperpolarization of the membrane potential may vary among mammalian species just as the regulation of the channel does. Recent discoveries have elucidated the role of SLO3 in these processes in human sperm and provided tools to target the channel to affect human fertility.