bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Integrated Approach of Hypobaric Pressures and Potassium Permanganate to Maintain Quality and Biochemical Changes in Tomato Fruits
Authors: Muhammad Ali , Dayisoylu Kenan Sinan , Khan Hamid , Khan Muhammad Rafiullah , Khan Imran , Hussain Fida , Basit Abdul , Ali Mehboob , Khan Suliman , Idrees Muhammad
Published: December 2022

Limited postharvest life of tomato fruit is due to its highly perishable nature. Hypobaric pressure is a new emerging hurdle technology usually used up to a pressure of 100 kPa for the preservation of fruits and vegetables. In this study, an integrated approach of hypobaric pressures (40 kPa and 50 kPa) and sponge-dipping of potassium permanganate (KMnO4) was designed for the postharvest life extension of tomato fruits. Fruits were treated with either 400 ppm of KMnO4, or 40 or 50 kPa hypobaric pressures, or their combination. Fruits without any treatment was considered as a control treatment. All groups were packaged in polypropylene trays as ready to retail and stored at room temperature at 25 ± 1 °C for 21 days. Basic quality parameters such as pH, total soluble solid, percent weight loss, percent spoilage, firmness, ethylene production rate, and color were evaluated at 3-day intervals. Results showed the application of hypobaric pressures and KMnO4, either alone or in combination, provided a synergistic effect in maintaining the quality compared to the control treatment during the 21 days of storage. The highest decay was found in the control compared to the combined treatments of KMnO4 + 40 kPa and KMnO4 + 50 kPa. Similarly, a decrease in firmness and color values was highest in the control treatment followed by the KMnO4 and 50 kPa hypobaric pressure compared to the combined treatment of KMnO4 + 50 kPa. In the same way, a high ethylene production rate was observed in the control, while the lowest ethylene production rate was found in KMnO4 + 50 kpa. Sensory evaluation indicated a highest score of 9 on the 9-point hedonic scale of tomato fruits. Among all groups, the combined application of 50 kPa hypobaric pressure + 400 ppm KMnO4 retained the best overall quality attributes compared to all other treatments throughout the experiment; therefore, this treatment could be applied at a commercial level for tomato fruits.
Mucilage-Based and Calcium Ascorbate Edible Coatings Improve Postharvest Quality and Storability of Minimally Processed Cactus Pear Fruit Stored under Passive Atmosphere
Authors: Liguori Giorgia , Greco Giuseppe , Gaglio Raimondo , Settanni Luca , Gentile Carla , Inglese Paolo
Published: December 2022

The minimally processed fruit and vegetable industry showed rapid growth worldwide, primarily due to the increasing consumer need for ready-to-eat fresh products characterized by high nutritional, sensory and healthy value. The postharvest life of peeled cactus pear fruits is relatively short, due to the processing operations that affect fruit integrity and cause metabolic disfunctions, as well as pulp browning, microbial growth, loss of firmness, off-flavor development, and nutraceutical value loss. In this study, we investigated the effects of mucilage-based (OFI) and calcium ascorbate edible coating on minimally processed cactus pear summer-ripening fruit, cold stored under passive atmosphere. The effect of the edible coating on the postharvest life, quality attributes, and nutraceutical value of fruit was evaluated by colors, total soluble solids content, carbohydrates; titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, betalains, DPPH, visual quality, and sensorial analysis. Our data showed a significant effect of mucilage-based and calcium ascorbate-based coating on preserving quality, nutritional value, sensorial parameters, and improving postharvest life of minimally processed cactus pear fruits; OFI had the most effective barrier effect. Furthermore, both coating treatments did not negatively affect the natural taste of minimally processed cactus pear fruits, which is an important aspect regarding the use of edible coatings when taste modification is undesirable.
A Stacked Machine Learning Algorithm for Multi-Step Ahead Prediction of Soil Moisture
Authors: Granata Francesco , Di Nunno Fabio , Najafzadeh Mohammad , Demir Ibrahim
Published: December 2022

A trustworthy assessment of soil moisture content plays a significant role in irrigation planning and in controlling various natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and droughts. Various machine learning models (MLMs) have been used to increase the accuracy of soil moisture content prediction. The present investigation aims to apply MLMs with novel structures for the estimation of daily volumetric soil water content, based on the stacking of the multilayer perceptron (MLP), random forest (RF), and support vector regression (SVR). Two groups of input variables were considered: the first (Model A) consisted of various meteorological variables (i.e., daily precipitation, air temperature, humidity, and wind speed), and the second (Model B) included only daily precipitation. The stacked model (SM) had the best performance (R2 = 0.962) in the prediction of daily volumetric soil water content for both categories of input variables when compared with the MLP (R2 = 0.957), RF (R2 = 0.956) and SVR (R2 = 0.951) models. Overall, the SM, which, in general, allows the weaknesses of the individual basic algorithms to be overcome while still maintaining a limited number of parameters and short calculation times, can lead to more accurate predictions of soil water content than those provided by more commonly employed MLMs.
Universal Health Coverage for Antiretroviral Treatment: A Review
Authors: Endalamaw Aklilu , Gilks Charles F , Ambaw Fentie , Habtewold Tesfa Dejenie , Assefa Yibeltal
Published: December 2022

Universal health coverage is essential for the progress to end threats of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome epidemic. The current review assesses the publication rate, strategies and barriers for antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage, equity, quality of care, and financial protection. We searched Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Of the available articles, 43.13% were on ART coverage, 40.28% were on financial protection, 10.43% were on quality of care, and 6.16% were on equity. A lack of ART, fear of unwanted disclosure, lack of transportation, unaffordable health care costs, long waiting time to receive care, and poverty were barriers to ART coverage. Catastrophic health care costs were higher among individuals who were living in rural settings, walked greater distances to reach health care institutions, had a lower socioeconomic status, and were immunocompromised. There were challenges to the provision of quality of care, including health care providers’ inadequate salary, high workload and inadequate health workforce, inappropriate infrastructure, lack of training opportunities, unclear division of responsibility, and the presence of strict auditing. In conclusion, ART coverage was below the global average, and key populations were disproportionally less covered with ART in most countries. Huge catastrophic health expenditures were observed. UHC contexts of ART will be improved by reaching people with poor socioeconomic status, delivering appropriate services, establishing a proper health workforce and service stewardship.
Efficacy of a 4-Week Nurse-Led Exercise Rehabilitation Program in Improving the Quality of Life in Women Receiving a Post-Mastectomy Reconstruction Using the Motiva ErgonomixTM Round SilkSurface
Authors: Kang Jung Joong , Lee Hyunho , Park Bom Hui , Song Yu Kwan , Park Soon Eun , Kim Robert , Lee Kyung Ah
Published: December 2022

We assessed the efficacy of a 4-week nurse-led exercise rehabilitation (ER) program in improving the quality of life (QOL) of breast cancer survivors (BCS) receiving an implant-based breast reconstruction. The eligible patients were equally randomized to either of both groups: the intervention group (n = 30; a 4-week nurse-led ER program) and the control group (n = 30; a 4-week physical therapist-supervised one). Both after a 4-week ER program and at baseline, the patients were evaluated for the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) scores. There was a significantly higher degree of increase in global health status/QOL scores, physical functioning scores, role functioning scores, and emotional functioning scores at 4 weeks from baseline in the intervention group as compared with the control group (p = 0.001). However, there was a significantly higher degree of decrease in fatigue scores, nausea/vomiting scores, pain scores, dyspnea scores, and FSS scores in the intervention group as compared with the control group (p = 0.001). In conclusion, our results indicate that a 4-week nurse-led ER program might be effective in the QOL in BCS receiving a post-mastectomy implant-based reconstruction using the Motiva ErgonomixTM Round SilkSurface.
How Can Quantitative Analysis Be Used to Improve Occupational Health without Reinforcing Social Inequalities? An Examination of Statistical Methods
Authors: Lederer Valérie , Messing Karen , Sultan-Taïeb Hélène
Published: December 2022

Taking account of sex and gender in occupational health studies poses statistical challenges. Other sociodemographic variables, such as racialization, class, and age, also affect the relations between workplace exposures and health and interact with sex and gender. Our objective was to perform a critical review of conventional and emerging statistical tools, examining whether each analysis takes account of sociodemographic variables (1) in a way that contributes to identification of critical occupational determinants of health (2) while taking account of relevant population characteristics to reflect intersectional approaches to health and (3) using sample sizes and population characteristics available to researchers. A two-step search was conducted: (1) a scientific watch concerning the statistical tools most commonly used in occupational health over the past 20 years; (2) a screening of the 1980–2022 literature with a focus on emerging tools. Our examination shows that regressions with adjustment for confounders and stratification fail to reveal the sociodemographic mechanisms that interact with occupational health problems, endangering the identification of occupational risks. Multilevel (notably MAIHDA) analyses, decision tree, cluster, and latent analyses are useful methods to consider when seeking to orientate prevention. Researchers should consider methods that adequately reveal the mechanisms connecting sociodemographic variables and occupational health outcomes.
Perception of School Violence: Indicators of Normalization in Mapuche and Non-Mapuche Students
Authors: Muñoz-Troncoso Flavio , Cuadrado-Gordillo Isabel , Riquelme-Mella Enrique , Miranda-Zapata Edgardo , Ortiz-Velosa Eliana
Published: December 2022

The current social and political scenario in Chile has opened up the debate on two centuries of usurpation and discrimination towards the Mapuche people. Educational centers are not oblivious to the social exclusion faced by indigenous children and young people, and this forms part of the phenomenon of school violence. This study explores the differences in perception between Mapuche and non-Mapuche students regarding school violence. The issue is the lack of knowledge regarding cultural variations in the perception of school violence in spaces of social and cultural diversity in the Mapuche context. This study describes the characteristics of school violence perceived by students in relation to differences based on ancestry and characterizes the variations in perception. A total of 1404 students participated from urban schools in the city of Temuco, Chile, aged 10 to 13 (M = 11.4; SD = 1.1) who completed the CENVI questionnaire. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the total sample and categories provides indexes that fit the proposed model. The omega coefficients provide internal reliability guarantees. This study tests configural, metric and scalar invariance for all the categories explored, and statistically significant differences are found between Mapuche and non-Mapuche students in the perception of physical and verbal violence, where the Mapuche student perceives more violence. Results are discussed based on existing research on education in spaces of social and cultural diversity in the Mapuche context, with research into elements that can help explain the findings.
Alteration of Cell Membrane Permeability by Cetyltrimethylammonium Chloride Induces Cell Death in Clinically Important Candida Species
Authors: Jothi Ravi , Sangavi Ravichellam , Raja Veerapandian , Kumar Ponnuchamy , Pandian Shunmugiah Karutha , Gowrishankar Shanmugaraj
Published: December 2022

The increased incidence of healthcare-related Candida infection has necessitated the use of effective disinfectants/antiseptics in healthcare settings as a preventive measure to decontaminate the hospital environment and stop the persistent colonization of the offending pathogens. Quanternary ammonium surfactants (QASs), with their promising antimicrobial efficacy, are considered as intriguing and appealing candidates for disinfectants. From this perspective, the present study investigated the antifungal efficacy and action mechanism of the QAS cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC) against three clinically important Candida species: C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. glabrata. CTAC exhibited phenomenal antifungal activity against all tested Candida spp., with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFC) between 2 and 8 µg/mL. The time–kill kinetics of CTAC (at 2XMIC) demonstrated that an exposure time of 2 h was required to kill 99.9% of the inoculums in all tested strains. An important observation was that CTAC treatment did not influence intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), signifying that its phenomenal anticandidal efficacy was not mediated via oxidative stress. In addition, sorbitol supplementation increased CTAC’s MIC values against all tested Candida strains by three times (8–32 μg/mL), indicating that CTAC’s possible antifungal activity involves fungus cell membrane destruction. Interestingly, the increased fluorescence intensity of CTAC-treated cells in both propidium iodide (PI) and DAPI staining assays indicated the impairment of cell plasma membrane and nuclear membrane integrity by CTAC, respectively. Additionally, CTAC at MIC and 2XMIC was sufficient (>80%) to disrupt the mature biofilms of all tested spp., and it inhibited the yeast-to-hyphae transition at sub-MIC in C. albicans. Finally, the non-hemolytic activity of CTAC (upto 32 µg/mL) in human blood cells and HBECs signified its non-toxic nature at the investigated concentrations. Furthermore, thymol and citral, two phytocompounds, together with CTAC, showed synergistic fungicidal effectiveness against C. albicans planktonic cells. Altogether, the data of the present study appreciably broaden our understanding of the antifungal action mechanism of CTAC and support its future translation as a potential disinfectant against Candida-associated healthcare infections.
Circadian Clock Desynchronization and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Catalano Federica , De Vito Francesca , Cassano Velia , Fiorentino Teresa Vanessa , Sciacqua Angela , Hribal Marta Letizia
Published: December 2022

The circadian rhythm regulates biological processes that occur within 24 h in living organisms. It plays a fundamental role in maintaining biological functions and responds to several inputs, including food intake, light/dark cycle, sleep/wake cycle, and physical activity. The circadian timing system comprises a central clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and tissue-specific clocks in peripheral tissues. Several studies show that the desynchronization of central and peripheral clocks is associated with an increased incidence of insulin resistance (IR) and related diseases. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the impact of circadian clock dysregulation on insulin action. We focus our attention on two possible mediators of this interaction: the phosphatases belonging to the pleckstrin homology leucine-rich repeat protein phosphatase family (PHLPP) family and the deacetylase Sirtuin1. We believe that literature data, herein summarized, suggest that a thorough change of life habits, with the return to synchronized food intake, physical activity, and rest, would doubtless halt the vicious cycle linking IR to dysregulated circadian rhythms. However, since such a comprehensive change may be incompatible with the demand of modern society, clarifying the pathways involved may, nonetheless, contribute to the identification of therapeutic targets that may be exploited to cure or prevent IR-related diseases.
The Rural Fires of 2017 and Their Influences on Water Quality: An Assessment of Causes and Effects
Authors: Sequeira Mário David , Castilho Ana , Tavares Alexandre Oliveira , Dinis Pedro
Published: December 2022

As water is facing increasing pressures from population and economic growth and climate change, it becomes imperative to promote the protection, restoration and management of this resource and its watersheds. Since water quality depends on multiple factors both natural and anthropic, it is not easy to establish their influences. After the October 2017 fires that affected almost 30% of the Mondego hydrographic basin in Central Portugal, 10 catchments were selected for periodic physical-chemical monitoring. These monitoring campaigns started one month after the fires and lasted for two hydrological years, measuring the electric conductivity (EC), pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity (Turb), alkalinity (Alk), major and minor ions, and trace elements. The obtained data were then statistically analysed alongside the geomorphological characteristics of each catchment coupled with features of land-use and occupation. From the results, it was possible to establish that fire-affected artificial areas, through the atmospheric deposition and surface runoff of combustion products, had the most impact on surface water quality, increasing As, K−, Ca2+, Mg2+, NO3−, SO42− and Sr, and consequently increasing electrical conductivity. Agricultural land-use seems to play a major influence in raising the water’s EC, Cl, K− and Na2+. Regarding natural factors such as catchment geology, it was found that the extent of igneous exposures influences As, and the carbonate sedimentary units are a source of Ca2+ and HCO32− concentrations and impose an increase in alkalinity. Rainfall seems, in the short term, to increase the water concentration in Al and NO3−, while also raising turbidity due to sediments dragged by surface runoff. While, in the long-term, rainfall reduces the concentrations of elements in surface water and approximates the water’s pH to rainfall features.
Mid-Infrared Emissivity Retrieval from Nighttime Sentinel-3 SLSTR Images Combining Split-Window Algorithms and the Radiance Transfer Method
Authors: Ye Xin , Ren Huazhong , Wang Pengxin , Sun Zhongqiu , Zhu Jian
Published: December 2022

Land surface emissivity is a key parameter that affects energy exchange and represents the spectral characteristics of land cover. Large-scale mid-infrared (MIR) emissivity can be efficiently obtained using remote sensing technology, but current methods mainly rely on prior knowledge and multi-temporal or multi-angle remote sensing images, and additional errors may be introduced due to the uncertainty of external data such as atmospheric profiles and the inconsistency of multiple source data in spatial resolution, observation time, and other information. In this paper, a new practical method was proposed which can retrieve MIR emissivity with only a single image input by combining the radiance properties of TIR and MIR channels and the spatial information of remote sensing images based on the Sentinel-3 Sea and land surface temperature radiometer (SLSTR) data. Two split-window (SW) algorithms that use TIR channels only and MIR and TIR channels to retrieve land surface temperature (LST) were developed separately, and the initial values of MIR emissivity were obtained from the known LST and TIR emissivity. Under the assumption that the atmospheric conditions in the local area are constant, the radiance transfer equations for adjacent pixels are iterated to optimize the initial values to obtain stable estimation results. The experimental results based on the simulation dataset and real SLSTR images showed that the proposed method can achieve accurate MIR emissivity results. In future work, factors such as angular effects, solar radiance, and the influence of atmospheric water vapor will be further considered to improve performance.
Cultural Proficiency in First Nations Health Research: A Mixed-Methods, Cross-Cultural Evaluation of a Novel Resource
Authors: Saunders Paul , Doyle Aunty Kerrie
Published: December 2022

Recent efforts have illustrated the efficacy of culturally proficient approaches to research, underpinned by robust partnerships between researchers and First Nations peoples and communities. This article seeks to determine differences in approaches to First Nations research engagement perceptions between First Nations and non-First Nations researchers, as well as whether participation in a cultural proficiency workshop improved the perceived cultural proficiency of non-First Nations health researchers. Also, whether a set of novel cultural proficiency resources, designed in the Sydney region could be applied broadly across First Nations contexts within Australia. The evaluation adopted a mixed-methods, cross-cultural (First Nations and non-First Nations) design to appraise the novel cultural proficiency resources, identifying participant perceptions to First Nations research engagement, as well as views regarding the feasibility of universal application of the resources. A quantitative pre- and post-workshop evaluation was also undertaken to measure differences in self-reported cultural proficiency. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis and quantitative data were analysed applying t-tests. Both qualitative and quantitative evaluation showed minimal variation between the cultural groups regarding research engagement perceptions, based on viewing of the online resources. A statistically significant increase in self-reported cultural proficiency was found in non-First Nations workshop participants. Cultural proficiency education and training programs that promote an immersive, interactive, and ongoing framework can build the perceived cultural proficiency of non-First Nations health researchers, however First Nations expertise must validate this perceived cultural proficiency to be beneficial in practice. Based on the research findings, applying the underlying ethical principles of First Nations research with a local, context-centred approach allows for the broad application of cultural proficiency research education and training programs within Australia.
Psychosocial Factors Associated with Burnout and Self-Perceived Health in Spanish Occupational Therapists
Authors: Juy Rubén , Nieto Ana , Contador Israel , Ramos Francisco , Fernández-Calvo Bernardino
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: There are few studies of burnout syndrome (BS) in occupational therapists (OTs), and protective factors for BS have received little attention in the scientific literature. This research aimed to estimate the prevalence of BS, characterize the associated psychosocial factors, and analyze their relationship with health in a sample of Spanish OTs. (2) Methods: A total of 127 therapists completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and other standardized questionnaires measuring: personality traits (reduced five-factor personality inventory, NEO-FFI), coping styles (Coping Strategies Questionnaire, CAE), work-family conflict (Survey Work-Home Interaction Nijmegen, SWING), professional factors (role ambiguity/clarity and modified role conflict questionnaires), and the perception of health (Goldberg’s General Health Questionnaire). Several correlational and multiple regression analyses were performed to study the psychosocial predictors of burnout and its relationship with health perceptions. (3) Results: 15.8% of the professionals presented BS, with emotional exhaustion (EE; 38.7%) being the most compromised dimension. Neuroticism, role conflict, negative work-family interaction, and open emotional expression (OE) significantly predicted a higher EE. The main predictors of cynicism (CY) were being male, role conflict, and OE. Role conflict, role ambiguity and social support-seeking were significant predictors of reduced professional efficiency (PE). (4) Conclusions: A high percentage of OTs with BS suggests the need for increased awareness of the importance of this syndrome in the health community. It would be critical to consider the protective factors (i.e., emotional management, social support) that help promote OTs’ well-being and health.
Co-Creating ICT Risk Strategies with Older Australians: A Workshop Model
Authors: Sheahan Jacob , Hjorth Larissa , Figueiredo Bernardo , Martin Diane M. , Reid Mike , Aleti Torgeir , Buschgens Mark
Published: December 2022

As digital inclusion becomes a growing indicator of wellbeing in later life, the ability to understand older adults’ preferences for information and communication technologies (ICTs) and develop strategies to support their digital literacy is critical. The barriers older adults face include their perceived ICT risks and capacity to learn. Complexities, including ICT environmental stressors and societal norms, may require concerted engagement with older adults to achieve higher digital literacy competencies. This article describes the results of a series of co-design workshops to develop strategies for increased ICT competencies and reduced perceived risks among older adults. Engaging older Australians in three in-person workshops (each workshop consisting of 15 people), this study adapted the “Scenario Personarrative Method” to illustrate the experiences of people with technology and rich pictures of the strategies seniors employ. Through the enrichment of low-to-high-digital-literacy personas and mapping workshop participant responses to several scenarios, the workshops contextualized the different opportunities and barriers seniors may face, offering a useful approach toward collaborative strategy development. We argued that in using co-designed persona methods, scholars can develop more nuance in generating ICT risk strategies that are built with and for older adults. By allowing risks to be contextualized through this approach, we illustrated the novelty of adapting the Scenario Personarrative Method to provide insights into perceived barriers and to build skills, motivations, and strategies toward enhancing digital literacy.
Partnering with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples: An Evaluation Study Protocol to Strengthen a Comprehensive Multi-Scale Evaluation Framework for Participatory Systems Modelling through Indigenous Paradigms and Methodologies
Authors: Lee Grace Yeeun , Robotham Julie , Song Yun Ju C. , Occhipinti Jo-An , Troy Jakelin , Hirvonen Tanja , Feirer Dakota , Iannelli Olivia , Loblay Victoria , Freebairn Louise , Agung-Igusti Rama , Chang Ee Pin , Dudgeon Pat , Hickie Ian Bernard
Published: December 2022

The social and emotional wellbeing of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be supported through an Indigenous-led and community empowering approach. Applying systems thinking via participatory approaches is aligned with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research paradigms and can be an effective method to deliver a decision support tool for mental health systems planning for Indigenous communities. Evaluations are necessary to understand the effectiveness and value of such methods, uncover protective and healing factors of social and emotional wellbeing, as well as to promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander self-determination over allocation of funding and resources. This paper presents modifications to a published evaluation protocol for participatory systems modelling to align with critical Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander guidelines and recommendations to support the social and emotional wellbeing of young people. This paper also presents a culturally relevant participatory systems modelling evaluation framework. Recognizing the reciprocity, strengths, and expertise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander methodologies can offer to broader research and evaluation practices, the amended framework presented in this paper facilitates empowering evaluation practices that should be adopted when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as well as when working with other diverse, non-Indigenous communities.
Lower Carbon, Stronger Nation: Exploring Sociopolitical Determinants for the Chinese Public’s Climate Attitudes
Authors: Pan Yeheng , Xie Yu , Jia Hepeng , Luo Xi , Zhang Ruifen
Published: December 2022

Although numerous studies have examined the Chinese public’s attitudes towards climate change, few have shed light on how sociopolitical factors related to the policy and the state have shaped such attitudes. This constituted our research goal. Against the background of China’s Dual Carbon Goals, a national survey (n = 1469) was conducted to investigate the relationships between climate attitudes and climate benefit perception, institutional trust, policy familiarity, nationalism, and environmental values. Findings showed that respondents shared a high score of nationalism and a high level of trust in Chinese institutions. Their national benefit perception of climate action, nationalism, and trust in national institutions were strong determinants of their attitudes towards climate change. The findings suggested that for many Chinese, a lower-carbon future will be accompanied by a coming stronger nation, which is a key driver for people to adopt positive attitudes towards addressing climate change. As such, the current study revealed an alternative landscape of the determinants underlying people’s attitudes towards climate change. To our knowledge, this is the first scholarly effort in China to empirically demonstrate the predictive role of nationalistic value in shaping climate attitudes and is one of the earliest efforts in climate communication to test the impact of the policy on such attitudes.
Ball Screens in the Men’s 2019 Basketball World Cup
Authors: Prieto-Lage Iván , Vázquez-Estévez Christopher , Paramés-González Adrián , Argibay-González Juan Carlos , Reguera-López-de-la-Osa Xoana , Gutiérrez-Santiago Alfonso
Published: December 2022

Background: The objective of this research was to analyse the effectiveness and search for successful patterns in ball screens in the men’s 2019 Basketball World Cup. Methods: The sample consisted of 515 ball screens obtained in critical moments. LINCE software was used as a registration instrument by means of an observational instrument designed ad hoc. A descriptive analysis and chi-square tests (χ2) were performed with SPSS 25.0 and a T-patterns analysis with Theme 5 software. Results: The results indicate that the criteria that have the most influence on this type of action are the result of the team executing the screen (winning, losing or tying), the type of offense and the defence used on the ball screen. The most representative patterns of success tend to take place between 9–16 s of possession, with the screeners being inside players and the screened players being outside players, and it is performed in the upper areas of the court against an individual type of defence and ending with the screened player advancing towards the basket or passing to an open teammate. Conclusions: The data obtained will enable the coaching staff to train ball screens in accordance with specific game situations.
Migration and Transformation of Cd in Pig Manure–Insect Frass (Hermetia illucens)–Soil–Maize System
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Wu Nan , Ma Ye , Wang Zhiqiang , Cai Ruijie , Xu Xiaoyan
Published: December 2022

Little is known about the fate of heavy metals in the recycling system of animal manure–black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) transformation-larval frass application. In this work, BSFL-transformed pig manure with different concentrations of exogenous cadmium (Cd) (0, 3, 15, 30 mg kg−1), and the obtained BSFL frass fertilizer were further used in pot experiments of maize planting to explore Cd migration during the whole recycling system. Results showed that Cd addition to pig manure had no significant effects on BSFL growth or BSFL transformation performance. The Cd concentrations in BSFL frass were 10.9–19.8% lower than those in pig manure, while those in BSFL bodies were 2.3–4.0-times those of pig manure. For maize planting, only 30 mg kg−1 of Cd treatment significantly inhibited maize growth. The BSFL frass application (under exogenous Cd treatment) enhanced Cd contents in the aboveground and underground parts of maize (3.3–57.6-times) and those in soil (0.5–1.7-times) compared with CK (no Cd addition). Additionally, 61.2–73.5% of pig manure-sourced Cd was transformed into BSFL frass and the rest entered BSFL bodies. Only a small part (0.31–1.34%) of manure-sourced Cd entered maize plants. BSFL transformation decreased the proportions of weak acid-dissolved Cd from 44.2–53.0% (manure) to 37.3–46.0% (frass). After frass application, the proportions of weak acid-dissolved Cd in soil were further decreased to 17.8–42.5%, while the residual fractions of Cd increased to 27.2–67.7%. The findings provided a theoretical basis for the rational application of BSFL frass fertilizers sourced from heavy-metal-contaminated manure.
A Brief Report on the Collapse of Self-Built Houses on 29 April 2022, in Changsha, China
Authors: Wang Yan-Ning , Chen Qian , Peng Jing-Rui , Chen Jun
Published: December 2022

A self-built house collapsed in Changsha City, Hunan Province, on 29 April 2022, causing 53 people to be trapped and 39 people to go missing. The tragedy caused a huge loss of life, so the stability of self-built houses has a non-negligible impaction on public safety. This report presents causes of the incident, rescue operations, cause analysis, and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The main conclusions about the reasons for the collapse include: (a) reckless heightening, (b) unreasonable structure, (c) adverse geological conditions, (d) architectural vulnerabilities, (e) negligence of competent authorities, and (f) lack of security awareness. This paper provides a reference for avoiding similar security incidents in the future.
Effects of the Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic on Assault-Related Head Injury in Melbourne: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Domínguez D Juan F , Truong Johnny , Burnett Jake , Satyen Lata , Akhlaghi Hamed , Stella Julian , Rushworth Nick , Caeyenberghs Karen
Published: December 2022

Assault is the leading preventable cause of death, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and associated mental health problems. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on patterns of interpersonal violence across the world. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we analysed medical records of 1232 assault victims (domestic violence: 111, random assault: 900, prison assault: 221) with head injuries who presented to the emergency department (ED) at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne, Australia, a city with one of the longest and most severe COVID-19 restrictions worldwide. We examined changes in prevalence in the assault group overall and in domestic violence, random assault, and prison assault victims, comparing data from 19.5 months before and after the first day of COVID-19 restrictions in Melbourne. Moreover, we investigated differences driven by demographic factors (Who: age group, sex, and nationality) and clinical variables (Where: assault location, and When: time of arrival to the ED and time from moment of injury until presentation at ED). Descriptive statistics and chi-square analyses were performed. We found the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the Where of assault-related TBI, with a shift in the location of assaults from the street to the home, and the increase at home being driven by random assaults on middle-aged adults. Overall, we observed that 86% of the random assault cases were males, whereas 74% of the domestic assault cases were females. Meanwhile, nearly half (44%) of the random assault victims reported alcohol consumption versus a fifth (20%) of domestic violence victims. These findings will have direct implications for developing screening tools and better preventive and ameliorative interventions to manage the sequelae of assault TBI, particularly in the context of future large-scale health crises or emergencies.
Functions of mHealth Diabetes Apps That Enable the Provision of Pharmaceutical Care: Criteria Development and Evaluation of Popular Apps
Authors: Ali Sherazi Bushra , Laeer Stephanie , Krutisch Svea , Dabidian Armin , Schlottau Sabina , Obarcanin Emina
Published: December 2022

Personal digital health apps for managing diabetes should include functions that enable the provision of pharmaceutical care services and allow within-app communication with pharmacists and other healthcare providers, thereby improving patient outcomes. The primary aim of this study was to assess the functions of diabetes apps that were relevant to providing pharmaceutical care services (i.e., medication management, adherence, non-pharmacological management, interoperability, and communication). Sixteen criteria related to pharmaceutical care were developed and then used to assess ten popular diabetes apps. The highest numbers of pharmaceutical care criteria were met by the apps Diabetes:M and mySugr (11 criteria); Contour™Diabetes, Dario Health, and OneTouch Reveal® (ten); and DiabetesConnect and ESYSTA (nine); followed by Glucose Buddy (eight), meala (seven), and lumind (three). The most prevalent functions were related to promoting adherence and non-pharmacological management, but most criteria relevant to medication management were lacking. Five apps allowed within-app communication between patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs); however, no app included communication with pharmacists. High-quality diabetes apps are powerful tools to support pharmaceutical care and remotely monitor diabetes patients. Improvements are needed as they often lack many medication management functions, including within-app communication with HCPs (especially pharmacists). To maximize diabetes app use and improve outcomes, app developers should consider including pharmacists alongside other healthcare providers when customizing app designs.
Utilization of Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Theory to Evaluate Workplace Stress Experienced by Health Care Assistants in a UK In-Patient Dementia Unit after 10 Years of National Financial Austerity (2008–2018)
Authors: Udushirinwa Christopher Chigozie , McVicar Andrew , Teatheredge Julie
Published: December 2022

Aims: Workplace stress for support workers in UK hospitals (Health Care Assistants; HCAs) is poorly understood. This study explores experiences of HCAs working in a National Health Service in-patient dementia unit after 10 years of national financial austerity (2008–2018). Design: Qualitative evaluation. Methods: 15 HCAs (42%) from a specialist dementia care Unit were interviewed. Interviews were guided by UK Health & Safety Executive published dimensions of work stress. Framework analysis was applied to interview transcriptions, corroborated by a follow-up focus group (6 HCAs). Post hoc interviews with 10 nurses were later introduced to obtain a balanced view of teamwork on the Unit. Results: Health care assistants were altruistic regarding demands of dementia care but otherwise negative of most aspects of their work environment. Staff shortages had increased job demands: workload, poor shift rotas, and excessive reliance on inexperienced agency staff. According to HCAs, job resources of the care team were in significant deficit: nurses in charge were perceived as poor team leaders, had poor interpersonal skills, lacked respect for experienced HCAs, and deemed to be frequently absent from the ward so failing to support carers. HCAs’ lack of decision-latitude exacerbated the situation. In contrast, nurses interviewed did not recognise the teamwork issues raised by HCAs, who were considered obstructive, unsupportive, lacked awareness of nurses’ responsibilities, and of insights how understaffing meant excessive administration and time required to support patients’ relatives. Such dissonant inter-group views caused considerable friction and exacerbated the work pressure. Conclusion: Study outcomes spotlighted impacts of socioeconomic issues for HCAs. Staff shortage, exacerbated by financial austerity measures (pre-COVID pandemic), increased job demands for HCAs but their psychosocial job resources were in serious deficit, so putting them at risk of burnout. Inter-group relations are key for a collaborative ethos, and are amenable to interventions. Such difficulties should not be allowed to fester.
Parental Emotional Availability and Family Functioning in Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa Subtypes
Authors: Criscuolo Michela , Marchetto Chiara , Buzzonetti Alessandra , Castiglioni Maria Chiara , Cereser Lucia , Salvo Pierandrea , Zanna Valeria
Published: December 2022

Emotional availability (EA) is a complex construct describing the emotional bond between parents and child, and it refers to support, sensitivity, warmth and closeness. Few studies have investigated the perception of parental EA and its association with dysfunctional eating pattern. The aim of the study is to explore the perception of mothers’ and fathers’ EA of adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) and any differences between the two subtypes of binge–purge (B/P) or restrictive (R) AN. Furthermore, it investigates the association of parental EA with AN symptomatology and with patients’ perception of family functioning, which is identified as a maintenance factor for AN. A total of 60 adolescents between 12 and 18 years and their parents (n = 120) were recruited in two eating disorder (ED) specialized care centers. Patients completed the LEAP and the FACES IV questionnaires evaluating parental EA and family functioning, respectively. Results showed no difference between AN subtypes, but a greater perception of mother when compared to father EA was found. Moreover, the EA construct was found not to be associated with ED symptomatology but with a greater positive family functioning. Our study is the first that explores EA in AN, and results suggest the importance of considering parents’ emotional engagement as part of the treatment core, together with the eating symptomatology management.
The Impact of Parental and Peer Attachment on Gaming Addiction among Out-of-School Adolescents in South Korea: The Mediating Role of Social Stigma
Authors: Kim Soyoun , Chun JongSerl
Published: December 2022

Most studies on gaming addiction have targeted adolescents in schools, while studies on gaming addiction among out-of-school adolescents remain scarce. Therefore, this study investigated the influence of parental and peer attachment on gaming addiction, mediated by social stigma among Korean out-of-school adolescents. The Dropout Youth Panel Survey was used for a sample of 437 dropout adolescents. The results showed that out-of-school adolescents’ social stigma fully mediated the relationship between parental and peer attachment and gaming addiction. Parental attachment significantly predicted out-of-school adolescents’ gaming addiction by decreasing their social stigma. Peer attachment also influenced gaming addiction in out-of-school adolescents via the mediated effects of social stigma. No direct effect of parental and peer attachment on gaming addiction was found. Social stigma played an important role in decreasing levels of gaming addiction. In addition, our study revealed that the direct and total effects of parental attachment on gaming addiction were greater than the effect of peer attachment. This study empirically verified the importance of social stigma based on modified labeling theory and provides a valid mechanism to describe how Korean out-of-school adolescents develop gaming addictions. The findings suggest effective strategies for prevention and treatment for dropout adolescents in South Korea.
Implementation Activities in Smoke-Free Public Housing: The Massachusetts Experience
Authors: Lee Boram , Fung Vicki , Cheng David , Winickoff Jonathan P. , Rigotti Nancy A. , Shah Radhika , McGlave Claire , Goldberg Sydney , Song Glory , Doane Jacqueline , Kingsley Melody , Henley Patricia , Ursprung Sanouri , Banthin Christopher , Levy Douglas E.
Published: December 2022

A 2018 rule requiring federally-subsidized public housing authorities (PHAs) in the United States to adopt smoke-free policies (SFPs) has sparked interest in how housing agencies can best implement SFPs. However, to date, there is little quantitative data on the implementation of SFPs in public housing. Massachusetts PHAs were among the pioneers of SFPs in public housing, and many had instituted SFPs voluntarily prior to the federal rule. The aim of this study was to examine the adoption, implementation, and outcomes of SFPs instituted in Massachusetts PHAs prior to 2018 using a survey conducted that year. The survey asked if PHAs had SFPs and, if so, what activities were used to implement them: providing information sessions, offering treatment or referral for smoking cessation, soliciting resident input, training staff, partnering with outside groups, using a toolkit, and/or providing outdoor smoking areas. We used multivariable regression to investigate associations between implementation activities and respondent-reported policy outcomes (resident support, complaints about neighbors’ smoking, and the number of violations reported per year). Of 238 Massachusetts PHAs, 218 (91%) completed the survey and 161 had an SFP prior to 2018. Common implementation activities were offering smoking cessation treatment/referral (89%) and information sessions for residents (85%). Information sessions for residents were associated with higher resident support (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 4.3; 95%CI 1.2–15.3). Training staff (AOR 6.3, 95%CI 1.2–31.8) and engaging in ≥5 implementation activities (AOR 4.1, 95%CI 1.2–14.1) were associated with fewer smoking-related complaints. Utilization of multiple implementation activities, especially ones that informed residents and trained PHA staff, was associated with more favorable policy outcomes. We identified five groups of PHAs that shared distinct patterns of SFP implementation activities. Our findings, documenting implementation activities and their associations with SFP outcomes among the early adopters of SPFs in Massachusetts public housing, can help inform best practices for the future implementation of SFPs in multiunit housing.