bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Universe Thermodynamics and Evolution in Nonviscous and Viscous Strong and Electroweak Epochs: Possible Analytical Solutions
Authors: Tawfik Abdel Nasser , Greiner Carsten
Published: March 2021

Based on recent perturbative and non-perturbative lattice calculations with almost quark flavors and the thermal contributions from photons, neutrinos, leptons, electroweak particles, and scalar Higgs bosons, various thermodynamic quantities, at vanishing net-baryon densities, such as pressure, energy density, bulk viscosity, relaxation time, and temperature have been calculated up to the TeV-scale, i.e., covering hadron, QGP, and electroweak (EW) phases in the early Universe. This remarkable progress motivated the present study to determine the possible influence of the bulk viscosity in the early Universe and to understand how this would vary from epoch to epoch. We have taken into consideration first- (Eckart) and second-order (Israel–Stewart) theories for the relativistic cosmic fluid and integrated viscous equations of state in Friedmann equations. Nonlinear nonhomogeneous differential equations are obtained as analytical solutions. For Israel–Stewart, the differential equations are very sophisticated to be solved. They are outlined here as road-maps for future studies. For Eckart theory, the only possible solution is the functionality, H(a(t)), where H(t) is the Hubble parameter and a(t) is the scale factor, but none of them so far could to be directly expressed in terms of either proper or cosmic time t. For Eckart-type viscous background, especially at finite cosmological constant, non-singular H(t) and a(t) are obtained, where H(t) diverges for QCD/EW and asymptotic EoS. For non-viscous background, the dependence of H(a(t)) is monotonic. The same conclusion can be drawn for an ideal EoS. We also conclude that the rate of decreasing H(a(t)) with increasing a(t) varies from epoch to epoch, at vanishing and finite cosmological constant. These results obviously help in improving our understanding of the nucleosynthesis and the cosmological large-scale structure.
Arbitrary Configurable 20-Channel Coincidence Counting Unit for Multi-Qubit Quantum Experiment
Authors: Park Byung Kwon , Kim Yong-Su , Cho Young-Wook , Moon Sung , Han Sang-Wook
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a 20-channel coincidence counting unit (CCU) using a low-end field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The architecture of the CCU can be configured arbitrarily to measure from twofold to twentyfold coincidence counts thanks to a multifold controllable architecture, which can be easily manipulated by a graphical user interface (GUI) program. In addition, it provides up to 20 of each input signal count simultaneously. The experimental results show twentyfold coincidence counts with the resolution occurring in a less than 0.5 ns coincidence window. This CCU has appropriate characteristics for various quantum optics experiments using multi-photon qubits.
Analysis of Interconnected Arrivals on Queueing-Inventory System with Two Multi-Server Service Channels and One Retrial Facility
Authors: Jeganathan K. , Harikrishnan T. , Selvakumar S. , Anbazhagan N. , Amutha S. , Acharya Srijana , Dhakal Rajendra , Joshi Gyanendra Prasad
Published: March 2021

Present-day queuing inventory systems (QIS) do not utilize two multi-server service channels. We proposed two multi-server service channels referred to as T1S (Type 1 n-identical multi-server) and T2S (Type 2 m-identical multi-server). It includes an optional interconnected service connection between T1S and T2S, which has a finite queue of size N. An arriving customer either uses the inventory (basic service or main service) for their demand, whom we call T1, or simply uses the service only, whom we call T2. Customer T1 will utilize the server T1S, while customer T2 will utilize the server T2S, and T1 can also get the second optional service after completing their main service. If there is a free server with a positive inventory, there is a chance that T1 customers may go to an infinite orbit whenever they find that either all the servers are busy or no sufficient stock. The orbital customer can request for T1S service under the classical retrial policy. Q(=S−s) items are replaced into the inventory whenever it falls into the reorder level s such that the inequality always holds n<s. We use the standard (s,Q) ordering policy to replace items into the inventory. By varying S and s, we investigate to find the optimal cost value using stationary probability vector ϕ. We used the Neuts Matrix geometric approach to derive the stability condition and steady-state analysis with R-matrix to find ϕ. Then, we perform the waiting time analysis for both T1 and T2 customers using Laplace transform technique. Further, we computed the necessary system characteristics and presented sufficient numerical results.
Pore-Scale Simulation of Confined Phase Behavior with Pore Size Distribution and Its Effects on Shale Oil Production
Authors: Huang Jingwei , Wang Hongsheng
Published: March 2021

Confined phase behavior plays a critical role in predicting production from shale reservoirs. In this work, a pseudo-potential lattice Boltzmann method is applied to directly model the phase equilibrium of fluids in nanopores. First, vapor-liquid equilibrium is simulated by capturing the sudden jump on simulated adsorption isotherms in a capillary tube. In addition, effect of pore size distribution on phase equilibrium is evaluated by using a bundle of capillary tubes of various sizes. Simulated coexistence curves indicate that an effective pore size can be used to account for the effects of pore size distribution on confined phase behavior. With simulated coexistence curves from pore-scale simulation, a modified equation of state is built and applied to model the thermodynamic phase diagram of shale oil. Shifted critical properties and suppressed bubble points are observed when effects of confinement is considered. The compositional simulation shows that both predicted oil and gas production will be higher if the modified equation of state is implemented. Results are compared with those using methods of capillary pressure and critical shift.
An Experimental Study of the Decomposition and Carbonation of Magnesium Carbonate for Medium Temperature Thermochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Mahon Daniel , Claudio Gianfranco , Eames Philip
Published: March 2021

To improve the energy efficiency of an industrial process thermochemical energy storage (TCES) can be used to store excess or typically wasted thermal energy for utilisation later. Magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) has a turning temperature of 396 °C, a theoretical potential to store 1387 J/g and is low cost (~GBP 400/1000 kg). Research studies that assess MgCO3 for use as a medium temperature TCES material are lacking, and, given its theoretical potential, research to address this is required. Decomposition (charging) tests and carbonation (discharging) tests at a range of different temperatures and pressures, with selected different gases used during the decomposition tests, were conducted to gain a better understanding of the real potential of MgCO3 for medium temperature TCES. The thermal decomposition (charging) of MgCO3 has been investigated using thermal analysis techniques including simultaneous thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC), TGA with attached residual gas analyser (RGA) and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) (up to 650 °C). TGA, DSC and RGA data have been used to quantify the thermal decomposition enthalpy from each MgCO3.xH2O thermal decomposition step and separate the enthalpy from CO2 decomposition and H2O decomposition. Thermal analysis experiments were conducted at different temperatures and pressures (up to 40 bar) in a CO2 atmosphere to investigate the carbonation (discharging) and reversibility of the decarbonation–carbonation reactions for MgCO3. Experimental results have shown that MgCO3.xH2O has a three-step thermal decomposition, with a total decomposition enthalpy of ~1050 J/g under a nitrogen atmosphere. After normalisation the decomposition enthalpy due to CO2 loss equates to 1030–1054 J/g. A CO2 atmosphere is shown to change the thermal decomposition (charging) of MgCO3.xH2O, requiring a higher final temperature of ~630 °C to complete the decarbonation. The charging input power of MgCO3.xH2O was shown to vary from 4 to 8136 W/kg with different isothermal temperatures. The carbonation (discharging) of MgO was found to be problematic at pressures up to 40 bar in a pure CO2 atmosphere. The experimental results presented show MgCO3 has some characteristics that make it a candidate for thermochemical energy storage (high energy storage potential) and other characteristics that are problematic for its use (slow discharge) under the experimental test conditions. This study provides a comprehensive foundation for future research assessing the feasibility of using MgCO3 as a medium temperature TCES material. Future research to determine conditions that improve the carbonation (discharging) process of MgO is required.
Environmental Performance of Noise Reduction System in Cogeneration Plants—A Life Cycle Assessment Study
Authors: Marcinkowski Andrzej , Kopania Joanna
Published: March 2021

Although one of the most harmful factors to health is noise, it is often ignored in life cycle assessment (LCA) studies. Most researches regarding noise inclusion in LCA focus on the problem of transport noise, and very few works consider the impact of noise emitted by other sources. This study addresses the effects of noise generated by cogeneration plants. The main objective is to assess the environmental performance of the noise reduction system by considering the health effects of noise due to steam discharge as well as to compare the environmental loss associated with the production and disposal of a steam silencer with the benefits resulting from its application for noise reduction. A method to determine midpoint and endpoint human health indicators for a composition of noise emitted by intermittent stationary source and background noise is developed. The results indicate that the health benefit due to noise reduction is six orders of magnitude greater than the environmental loss. Human health indicators attributable to noise reduction in the residential zones under consideration span a wide range of disability adjusted life years (DALY)—0.16–136 DALY. The greatest values occur in the densely populated areas located close to the noise source. A formula is proposed to express annoyance of the residents of individual zones depending on their distance to the steam discharge source, its sound power level, and existing background noise level. Uncertainty and sensitivity analyses have been carried out assuming other conditions. Modifications of sound power level, noise reduction efficiency, steam discharge duration, and the silencer lifetime have not affected the overall conclusion drawn.
Land Potential Assessment of Napier Grass Plantation for Power Generation in Thailand Using SWAT Model. Model Validation and Parameter Calibration
Authors: Nantasaksiri Kotchakarn , Charoen-Amornkitt Patcharawat , Machimura Takashi
Published: March 2021

In Thailand, Napier grass is expected to play an important role as an energy resource for future power generation. To accomplish this goal, numerous areas are required for Napier grass plantations. Before introducing crops, the land potential of the country and the impact of crops on the environment should be assessed. The soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) model is very useful in investigating crop impacts and land potential. Unfortunately, the crop growth parameters of Napier grass are yet to be identified and, thus, conducting effective analysis has not been possible. Accordingly, in this study, parameter calibration and SWAT model validation of Napier grass production in Thailand was carried out using datasets from eight sites with 93 samples. Parameter sensitivity analysis was performed prior to parameter calibration, the results of which suggest that the radiation use efficiency and potential harvested index are both highly sensitive. The crop growth parameters were calibrated in order of their sensitivity index ranking, and the final values were obtained by reducing the root mean square error from 10.77 to 1.38 t·ha−1. The validation provides satisfactory results with coefficient of determination of 0.951 and a mean error of 0.321 t·ha−1. Using the developed model and calibrated parameters, local Napier grass dry matter yield can be evaluated accurately. The results reveal that, if only abandoned area in Thailand is used, then Napier grass can provide roughly 33,600–44,900 GWh of annual electricity, and power plant carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions can be reduced by approximately 21.2–28.3 Mt-CO2. The spatial distribution of estimated yield obtained in this work can be further utilized for land suitability analysis to help identify locations for Napier grass plantations, anaerobic digesters, and biogas power plants.
A Carbon Price Prediction Model Based on the Secondary Decomposition Algorithm and Influencing Factors
Authors: Zhou Jianguo , Wang Shiguo
Published: March 2021

Carbon emission reduction is now a global issue, and the prediction of carbon trading market prices is an important means of reducing emissions. This paper innovatively proposes a second decomposition carbon price prediction model based on the nuclear extreme learning machine optimized by the Sparrow search algorithm and considers the structural and nonstructural influencing factors in the model. Firstly, empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is used to decompose the carbon price data and variational mode decomposition (VMD) is used to decompose Intrinsic Mode Function 1 (IMF1), and the decomposition of carbon prices is used as part of the input of the prediction model. Then, a maximum correlation minimum redundancy algorithm (mRMR) is used to preprocess the structural and nonstructural factors as another part of the input of the prediction model. After the Sparrow search algorithm (SSA) optimizes the relevant parameters of Extreme Learning Machine with Kernel (KELM), the model is used for prediction. Finally, in the empirical study, this paper selects two typical carbon trading markets in China for analysis. In the Guangdong and Hubei markets, the EMD-VMD-SSA-KELM model is superior to other models. It shows that this model has good robustness and validity.
Comparative Analysis and Phylogenetic Implications of Plastomes of Five Genera in Subfamily Amyridoideae (Rutaceae)
Authors: Sun Kuo , Liu Qiao-Yun , Wang Ao , Gao Yong-Wei , Zhao Liang-Cheng , Guan Wen-Bin
Published: March 2021

In the most recent classification of Rutaceae, Amyridoideae is the largest and most diverse subfamily. In Amyridoideae, the genera Phellodendron, Tetradium, Toddalia and Zanthoxylum were proposed as “proto-Rutaceae”due to substantial phytochemical similarities. In this study, we investigated the plastome varia-tions in eight species representing these four genera and Melicope. All plastomes exhibited a typical quadripartite structure with four regions (LSC, SSC, IRa and IRb). The whole chloroplast genome size ranged from 158,383 bp to 159,014 bp and the gene number ranged from 115 to 116. By comparative analyses, we found that there were structural variations at the LSC/IR and SSC/IR borders of the plastomes in the five genera, especially in Melicope. Three most divergent regions (trnH-psbA, trnE-trnT and psaB) were found from the LSC region, which had great potential for developing effective genetic markers. In addition, we conducted a phylogenomic analyses of the “proto-Rutaceae”and related taxa with plastomes data from 36 species. Our results showed that (1) Phellodendron, Tetradium, Toddalia and Zanthoxylum were confirmed as close relatives and grouped together as the ‘proto-Rutaceae’, (2) Phellodendron was sister to Tetradium, and Toddalia was deeply nested within Zanthoxylum, and (3) Toddalia asiatica was closely related to the Southwest Pacific and East Asian species of Zanthoxylum, and Melicope pteleifolia was more closely related to Acronychia than it is to Tetradium. This study provided new insights into the plastome structural varia-tions in subfamily Amyridoideae, and demonstrated that the plastomes data were sufficiently robust to explore implications of the phylogeny for the previous phylogenetic hypotheses.
Can Payments for Watershed Services Help Advance Restoration of Longleaf Pine? A Critically Engaged Research Approach
Authors: Sellers R. Sean , Kreye Melissa M. , Carney Tyler J. , Ward Lauren K. , Adams Damian C.
Published: March 2021

Private forests in the southeastern US are critical for providing a variety of ecosystem services, including timber production and water resource protection. Restoration of longleaf pine (LLP) forests and savannas tends to enhance some ecosystem services, including water supply, over timber production. A variety of payments for watershed services (PWS) strategies have emerged to address the market failure associated with private forests and public water supply. The nature of these programs suggests that biodiversity protection may be a positive externality, or third-party benefit, to water resource protection. This paper uses a critically engaged research approach and expert interviews to investigate how PWS programs may help prevent land use change and promote LLP restoration. We also offer recommendations on how to sustain emerging efforts to implement PWS strategies while including LLP restoration objectives.
Applying Machine Strength Grading System to Round Timber Used in Hydraulic Engineering Works
Authors: Nocetti Michela , Aminti Giovanni , Wessels C. Brand , Brunetti Michele
Published: March 2021

Round timber is often used for hydraulic engineering works, but the strength grading of round logs is not as well developed as that of sawn timber. The advantages of using defined strength classes, as well as the proper selection of the raw material, could be applicable to hydraulic works as well. In this study, the methods and rules developed for sawn timber were applied to the mechanical selection of oak round logs, paying particular attention to the issue of the simplicity of grading operations and the moisture content of the timber. Both the acoustic velocity and dynamic modulus of elasticity of oak logs were measured with different instruments before performing destructive bending tests; machine settings were derived for both properties and dry and wet grading operations were simulated to compare efficiency. The use of the dynamic modulus of elasticity makes machine grading more efficient. On the other hand, the use of acoustic velocity alone is feasible and makes the procedure much faster, even if wet grading resulted in very conservative estimations. The yields obtained were similar for lower grades, but to achieve higher strength classes, the dynamic modulus was preferable. For very fast and less expensive measurements, velocity could be considered an appropriate method, as an improvement over the use of unselected material.
Fabrication and Characterization of Er/Yb Co-Doped Fluorophosphosilicate Glass Core Optical Fibers
Authors: Lipatov Denis S. , Lobanov Alexey S. , Guryanov Alexey N. , Umnikov Andrey A. , Abramov Alexey N. , Khudyakov Maxim M. , Likhachev Mikhail E. , Morozov Oleg G.
Published: March 2021

The technical process of the synthesis of a fluorophosphosilicate (FPS) glass core was thoroughly investigated for the first time utilizing a modified chemical vapor deposition (MCVD) all-gas-phase fabrication method. It was discovered that the limiting doping level of the silica glass simultaneously co-doped with phosphorus (P) and fluorine (F) was found to be confined by the formation of POF3 gas. The dopants content was achieved as high as 4.7 at% of P and 1.1 at% of F in a glass core, respectively. A developed “in-house” manufacturing method makes it possible to fabricate a large mode area (LMA) purely single-mode Er–Yb co-doped optical fibers with a core diameter of 20 μm and with a lasing efficiency comparable to commercially available LMA Er–Yb optical fibers.
DNN-m6A: A Cross-Species Method for Identifying RNA N6-methyladenosine Sites Based on Deep Neural Network with Multi-Information Fusion
Authors: Zhang Lu , Qin Xinyi , Liu Min , Xu Ziwei , Liu Guangzhong
Published: March 2021

As a prevalent existing post-transcriptional modification of RNA, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a crucial role in various biological processes. To better radically reveal its regulatory mechanism and provide new insights for drug design, the accurate identification of m6A sites in genome-wide is vital. As the traditional experimental methods are time-consuming and cost-prohibitive, it is necessary to design a more efficient computational method to detect the m6A sites. In this study, we propose a novel cross-species computational method DNN-m6A based on the deep neural network (DNN) to identify m6A sites in multiple tissues of human, mouse and rat. Firstly, binary encoding (BE), tri-nucleotide composition (TNC), enhanced nucleic acid composition (ENAC), K-spaced nucleotide pair frequencies (KSNPFs), nucleotide chemical property (NCP), pseudo dinucleotide composition (PseDNC), position-specific nucleotide propensity (PSNP) and position-specific dinucleotide propensity (PSDP) are employed to extract RNA sequence features which are subsequently fused to construct the initial feature vector set. Secondly, we use elastic net to eliminate redundant features while building the optimal feature subset. Finally, the hyper-parameters of DNN are tuned with Bayesian hyper-parameter optimization based on the selected feature subset. The five-fold cross-validation test on training datasets show that the proposed DNN-m6A method outperformed the state-of-the-art method for predicting m6A sites, with an accuracy (ACC) of 73.58–83.38% and an area under the curve (AUC) of 81.39–91.04%. Furthermore, the independent datasets achieved an ACC of 72.95–83.04% and an AUC of 80.79–91.09%, which shows an excellent generalization ability of our proposed method.
Correction: Weich, K., et al. Pigment Intensity in Dogs Is Associated with a Copy Number Variant Upstream of KITLG. Genes 2020, 11, 75
Authors: Bannasch Danika L. , Affolter Verena K. , York Daniel , Rebhun Robert B. , Grahn Robert A. , Weich Kalie M. , Kallenberg Angelica
Published: March 2021

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Impacts of Self Perceived Malocclusion on the Oral Health Related Quality of Life of Young Adults
Authors: Tajudin Zawani Mohd , Wan Hassan Wan Nurazreena , Yusof Zamros Yuzadi Mohd , Makhbul Mohd Zambri Mohamed
Published: March 2021

Self-awareness of poorly arranged teeth can influence the quality of life. This study aimed to report the impacts of self-perceived malocclusion in young adults and the association between demographic characteristics and oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL). In this cross-sectional study, six-hundred-forty-three subjects from Selangor, Malaysia selected using a multistage sampling technique answered the Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics (PIDA) questionnaire and self-rated their dental appearance using the Aesthetic Component of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need. Data were analyzed using multifactorial ANOVA to identify the association between demographic characteristics and total PIDA score. Five-hundred-twenty-four subjects (81.5%) completed the questionnaires. Overall, 87.8% had impacts on their OHRQoL. Psychological impact was the most impacted domain (75.8%), followed by dental self-confidence (59.4%), social impact (48.9%) and aesthetic concern (22.1%). 16.8% reported significant impacts on all domains. Their mean PIDA score was 36.3 (SD 17.1). Prevalence, extent and severity of impacts were higher amongst those with self-perceived malocclusion. Gender, ethnicity, and self-perceived malocclusion status were associated with PIDA score (p < 0.05). Sub-urban and rural females had significantly higher PIDA scores than sub-urban and rural males. In conclusion, majority of Malaysian young adults especially those with self-perceived malocclusion were impacted by their dental aesthetics.
The Role of Dental Occlusion and Neuromuscular Behavior in Professional Ballet Dancers’ Performance: A Pilot Study
Authors: Didier Henri , Assandri Fausto , Gaffuri Francesca , Cavagnetto Davide , Abate Andrea , Villanova Michele , Maiorana Carlo
Published: March 2021

Clinical practice and some scientific evidence seem to suggest that there is some kind of relationship between the components that form the postural chain. For professional dancers, good posture and balance are essential. The aim of the present retrospective study is to evaluate whether gnathological treatment could have an impact on the postural balance and sports performance of professional ballet dancers. Electromyographic (EMG) data and balance tests were recorded before and after six months of treatment with a customized occlusal splint. Twenty athletes were examined during ballet exercises in terms of balance and speed of execution by two experienced clinicians. The results showed statistically significant changes for all EMG tests carried out and the Flamingo Balance Test. It appears that the use of a customized occlusal device improved neuro-muscular coordination and the overall performance of dancers.
Intracranial Tuberculoma Mimicking Neurosarcoidosis: A Clinical Challenge
Authors: Abbasi Fatemah , Ozer Muhammet , Juneja Kirti , Goksu Suleyman Yasin , Mobarekah Babak Jamasian , Whitman Marc S.
Published: March 2021

Central nervous system (CNS) tuberculosis is a rare manifestation of all tuberculosis presentations. The incidence of brain tuberculoma is increasing in developed countries due to HIV infection and immigration from tuberculosis-endemic countries. Symptoms and radiologic findings of CNS tuberculosis can be non-specific and lead to misdiagnosis or mistreatment. Intracranial tuberculoma can present with a seizure, intracranial hypertension, or focal neurologic symptoms. In our case, the diagnosis was challenging between neurosarcoidosis and intracranial tuberculoma due to inconclusive results of stereotactic brain biopsy and clinical presentation. The pathology result of the open brain biopsy revealed non-caseating granuloma. Finally, we were able to diagnose intracranial tuberculoma following acid-fast bacilli culture results of open brain biopsy. This report highlights the importance of including intracranial tuberculoma in the differential diagnosis of cerebral space-occupying lesions, even in patients with negative laboratory findings of tuberculosis.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Family Functioning of Primary Caregivers of Children with Cerebral Palsy in Malaysia
Authors: Ying Kelvin , Rostenberghe Hans Van , Kuan Garry , Mohd Yusoff Mohammad Haris Amirul , Ali Siti Hawa , Yaacob Nik Soriani
Published: March 2021

Caregiving for children with cerebral palsy (CP) has proved to negatively impact on the physical and psychological well-being of their primary caregivers. The aim of the current study was to examine the overall impact of caregiving for children with CP on the primary caregivers’ health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and family functioning, and to identify potential factors associated with primary caregivers’ HRQOL and family functioning. The cross-sectional study involved a total of 159 primary caregivers of children with CP with a mean age of 42.8 ± 8.4 years. Demographic data and information on the physical and leisure activities of the primary caregivers were collected, and their quality of life (QOL) was measured based on the self-reported Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Family Impact Module (PedsQL FIM). Primary caregivers in the current study have shown good HRQOL and family functioning, with scores of 82.4 and 85.3 out of 100, respectively. Through multiple linear regression analyses, the mother’s level of education, family monthly income, sleeping problems in children with CP, and the existence of children with other types of disability have been identified as factors contributing to HRQOL and family functioning. The findings help set out the course for stakeholders to establish action to enhance the QOL of primary caregivers.
The Impact of Health Policies and Sociodemographic Factors on Doubling Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Mexico
Authors: Díaz-Castro Lina , Cabello-Rangel Héctor , Hoffman Kurt
Published: March 2021

Background. The doubling time is the best indicator of the course of the current COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the present investigation was to determine the impact of policies and several sociodemographic factors on the COVID-19 doubling time in Mexico. Methods. A retrospective longitudinal study was carried out across March–August, 2020. Policies issued by each of the 32 Mexican states during each week of this period were classified according to the University of Oxford Coronavirus Government Response Tracker (OxCGRT), and the doubling time of COVID-19 cases was calculated. Additionally, variables such as population size and density, poverty and mobility were included. A panel data model was applied to measure the effect of these variables on doubling time. Results. States with larger population sizes issued a larger number of policies. Delay in the issuance of policies was associated with accelerated propagation. The policy index (coefficient 0.60, p < 0.01) and the income per capita (coefficient 3.36, p < 0.01) had a positive effect on doubling time; by contrast, the population density (coefficient −0.012, p < 0.05), the mobility in parks (coefficient −1.10, p < 0.01) and the residential mobility (coefficient −4.14, p < 0.01) had a negative effect. Conclusions. Health policies had an effect on slowing the pandemic’s propagation, but population density and mobility played a fundamental role. Therefore, it is necessary to implement policies that consider these variables.
Incidence and Risk Factors of Hyperuricemia among 2.5 Million Chinese Adults during the Years 2017–2018
Authors: Shan Ruiqi , Ning Yi , Ma Yuan , Gao Xiang , Zhou Zechen , Jin Cheng , Wu Jing , Lv Jun , Li Liming
Published: March 2021

Objective: To assess the incidence and risk factors of hyperuricemia among Chinese adults in 2017–2018. Methods: A total of 2,015,847 adults (mean age 41.2 ± 12.7, 53.1% men) with serum uric acid concentrations assayed on at least two separate days in routine health examinations during 2017–2018 were analyzed. Hyperuricemia was defined as fasting serum urate concentration >420 μmol/L in men and >360 μmol/L in women. The overall and sex-specific incidence rate were stratified according to age, urban population size, geographical region, annual average temperature and certain diseases. Logistic regression analyses were performed to explore risk factors associated with hyperuricemia. Results: 225,240 adults were newly diagnosed with hyperuricemia. The age- and sex-standardized incidence rate per 100 person-years was 11.1 (95%CI: 11.0–11.1) (15.2 for men and 6.80 for women). The risk of hyperuricemia was positively associated with younger age, being male, larger urban population size, higher annual temperature, higher body mass index, lower estimate glomerular filtration rate, hypertension, dyslipidemia and fat liver. Conclusions: The incidence of hyperuricemia was substantial and exhibited a rising trend among younger adults, especially among men. Socioeconomic and geographic variation in incidence were observed. The risk of hyperuricemia was associated with estimate glomerular filtration rate, fat liver and metabolic factors.
Formation and Validation of the Healthy Diet Index (HDI) for Evaluation of Diet Quality in Healthcare
Authors: Lindström Jaana , Aittola Kirsikka , Pölönen Auli , Hemiö Katri , Ahonen Kirsti , Karhunen Leila , Männikkö Reija , Siljamäki-Ojansuu Ulla , Tilles-Tirkkonen Tanja , Virtanen Eeva , Pihlajamäki Jussi , Schwab Ursula
Published: March 2021

Lack of tools to evaluate the quality of diet impedes dietary counselling in healthcare. We constructed a scoring for a validated food intake questionnaire, to measure the adherence to a healthy diet that prevents type 2 diabetes (T2D). The Healthy Diet Index (HDI) consists of seven weighted domains (meal pattern, grains, fruit and vegetables, fats, fish and meat, dairy, snacks and treats). We studied the correlations of the HDI with nutrient intakes calculated from 7-day food records among 52 men and 25 women, and associations of HDI with biomarkers and anthropometrics among 645 men and 2455 women. The HDI correlated inversely with total fat (Pearson’s r = −0.37), saturated fat (r = −0.37), monounsaturated fat (r = −0.37), and the glycaemic index of diet (r = −0.32) and positively with carbohydrates (r = 0.23), protein (r = 0.25), fibre (r = 0.66), magnesium (r = 0.26), iron (r = 0.25), and vitamin D (r = 0.27), (p < 0.05 for all). In the linear regression model adjusted for BMI and age, HDI is associated inversely with waist circumference, concentrations of fasting and 2-h glucose and triglycerides in men and women, total and LDL cholesterol in women, and fasting insulin in men (p < 0.05 for all). The HDI proved to be a valid tool to measure adherence to a health-promoting diet and to support individualised dietary counselling.
Protective Face Masks: Effect on the Oxygenation and Heart Rate Status of Oral Surgeons during Surgery
Authors: Scarano Antonio , Inchingolo Francesco , Rapone Biagio , Festa Felice , Rexhep Tari Sergio , Lorusso Felice
Published: March 2021

Background: Safety in medical work requires eye protection, such as glasses, and protective facial masks (PFM) during clinical practice to prevent viral respiratory infections. The use of facial masks and other full personal protective equipment increases air flow resistance, facial skin temperature and physical discomfort. The aim of the present study was to measure surgeons’ oxygenation status and discomfort before and after their daily routine activities of oral interventions. Methods: 10 male voluntary dentists, specializing in oral surgery, and 10 male voluntary doctors in dentistry, participating in master’s courses in oral surgery in the Department of Oral Surgery of the University of Chieti, with mean age 29 ± 6 (27–35), were enrolled. This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of wearing a PFM on oxygenation status while the oral surgeons were actively working. Disposable sterile one-way surgical paper masks (Surgical Face Mask, Euronda, Italy) and FFP2 (Surgical Face Mask, Euronda, Italy) were used and the mask position covering the nose did not vary during the procedures. The FFP2 was covered by a surgical mask during surgical treatment. A pulse oximeter was used to measure the blood oximetry saturation during the study. Results: In all 20 surgeons wearing FFP2 covered by surgical masks, a reduction in arterial O2 saturation from around 97.5% before surgery to 94% after surgery was recorded with increase of heart rates. A shortness of breath and light-headedness/headaches were also noted. Conclusions: In conclusion, wearing an FFP2 covered by a surgical mask induces a reduction in circulating O2 concentrations without clinical relevance, while an increase of heart frequency and a sensation of shortness of breath, light-headedness/headaches were recorded.
The Impact of Depression Symptoms in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Novel Case-Control Investigation
Authors: Jiménez-Cebrián Ana , Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo Ricardo , Losa-Iglesias Marta , López-López Daniel , Calvo-Lobo César , Palomo-López Patricia , Romero-Morales Carlos , Navarro-Flores Emmanuel
Published: March 2021

Parkinson’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disease and it is known to cause motor disturbances associated with musculoskeletal problems of the locomotor apparatus, and non-motor symptoms, that are believed to have a harmful effect on health, social functioning and mobility. The aim of this study was to evaluate depression in patients with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) compared to subjects who do not have it. The sample consisted of 124 participants (mean age 69.18 ± 9.12). Patients with PD were recruited from a center of excellence for Parkinson’s disease (cases n = 62) and healthy subjects without PD from their relatives and caregivers (control n = 62). The Spanish version of Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) scores and categories were collected. A clear statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) was evident in the BDI scores between both groups. Parkinson’s patients presented worse results on the BDI = 15.48 ± 7.24 points compared to healthy subjects with BDI = 7.03 ± 6.99 points. Regarding BDI categories, there were statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) for the greater BDI categories in the Parkinson’s group compared with healthy subjects. The depression represents an important potential risk for increased symptoms and negative impact among patients with PD compared with healthy subjects.
To Be a Champion of the 24-h Ultramarathon Race. If Not the Heart ... Mosaic Theory?
Authors: Gajda Robert , Samełko Aleksandra , Czuba Miłosz , Piotrowska-Nowak Agnieszka , Tońska Katarzyna , Żekanowski Cezary , Klisiewicz Anna , Drygas Wojciech , Gębska-Kuczerowska Anita , Gajda Jacek , Knechtle Beat , Adamczyk Jakub Grzegorz
Published: March 2021

This comprehensive case analysis aimed to identify the features enabling a runner to achieve championship in 24-h ultramarathon (UM) races. A 36-year-old, multiple medalist of the World Championships in 24-h running, was assessed before, one and 10 days after a 24-h run. Results of his extensive laboratory and cardiological diagnostics with transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and a one-time cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) were analyzed. After 12 h of running (approximately 130 km), the athlete experienced an increasing pain in the right knee. His baseline clinical data were within the normal range. High physical efficiency in CPET (VO2max 63 mL/kg/min) was similar to the average achieved by other ultramarathoners who had significantly worse results. Thus, we also performed genetic tests and assessed his psychological profile, body composition, and markers of physical and mental stress (serotonin, cortisol, epinephrine, prolactin, testosterone, and luteinizing hormone). The athlete had a mtDNA haplogroup H (HV0a1 subgroup, belonging to the HV cluster), characteristic of athletes with the highest endurance. Psychological studies have shown high and very high intensity of the properties of individual scales of the tools used mental resilience (62–100% depending on the scale), openness to experience (10th sten), coherence (10th sten), positive perfectionism (100%) and overall hope for success score (10th sten). The athlete himself considers the commitment and mental support of his team to be a significant factor of his success. Body composition assessment (%fat 13.9) and the level of stress markers were unremarkable. The tested athlete showed a number of features of the champions of ultramarathon runs, such as: inborn predispositions, mental traits, level of training, and resistance to pain. However, none of these features are reserved exclusively for “champions”. Team support’s participation cannot be underestimated. The factors that guarantee the success of this elite 24-h UM runner go far beyond physiological and psychological explanations. Further studies are needed to identify individual elements of the putative “mosaic theory of being a champion”.
Compliance with Infection Prevention and Control Practice among Prospective Graduates of Nursing School in South Korea
Authors: Kim Hyunjung , Park Hyunju
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine compliance with infection prevention and control practice and factors affecting compliance in nursing students who are about to graduate. A cross-sectional survey design was used. A total of 178 students from two nursing colleges in South Korea responded to self-reported questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, independent t-test, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis were conducted. Mean score for compliance was 4.09 ± 0.43 out of 5. The highest score was on compliance with prevention of cross-infection (4.42 ± 0.54) and the lowest was on use of protective devices (3.86 ± 0.78). Non–occupational exposure scores on compliance subcategories were significantly higher than those for occupational exposure. Students’ perception of safe environment for infection control and a positive attitude toward infection control predicted compliance significantly (β = 0.28, p < 0.001; β = 0.18, p = 0.014, respectively). The findings clarify that the level of infection control compliance among Korean nursing students is moderate. In order to increase the level of compliance, a climate that emphasizes a safe environment for healthcare-associated infections should be strengthened. In addition, nursing education should endeavor to develop a positive attitude toward infection prevention.
The Effect of Walking Backward on a Treadmill on Balance, Speed of Walking and Cardiopulmonary Fitness for Patients with Chronic Stroke: A Pilot Study
Authors: Chang Ken-Wei , Lin Chih-Ming , Yen Chen-Wen , Yang Chia-Chi , Tanaka Toshiaki , Guo Lan-Yuen
Published: March 2021

This study determines the effect of walking backward on a treadmill on balance, speed of walking and cardiopulmonary fitness for patients with chronic stroke. Subjects with chronic stroke for more than six months, whose level of Brunnstrom stage is greater than IV and who are able to walk more than eleven meters with or without assistive devices were recruited. After grouping for a single-blind clinical randomized controlled trial, the subjects were divided into two groups: eight in the control group and eight in the experimental group. All subjects were subjected to 30 min traditional physical therapy, three times a week for four weeks. The experimental group was subjected to an additional 30 min of walking backward on a treadmill. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Timed Up and Go test (TUG) were used to determine the functional balance and walking ability. The walking speed was evaluated using a timed 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT), and the cardiopulmonary fitness was determined using a 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and a pulmonary function test (PFT). All assessments were made at baseline before training commenced (pre-training) and at the end of the four-week training period (post-training). A paired t-test and an independent t-test were used to determine the effect on balance, speed of walking and cardiopulmonary fitness before and after training. The level of significance α was 0.05. After four weeks of training, the experimental group showed significant differences (p < 0.05) on TUG, BBS, 10MWT, 6MWT, forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). This pilot study shows that the 30 min of walking backward on a treadmill three times a week for four weeks increased balance, speed of walking and cardiopulmonary fitness. Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials NCT02619110.
Why and How Does Empowering Leadership Promote Proactive Work Behavior? An Examination with a Serial Mediation Model among Hotel Employees
Authors: Wang Chung-Jen , Yang I-Hsiu
Published: March 2021

With the increasing competition in contemporary enterprise, sustainable human resource management is a powerful resource for workplace mental health. On the basis of job demands-recourses theory and conservation of resources theory, this study examined the relationship between empowering leadership and employees’ proactive work behavior. It also explored how job design inspires employees to be embedded in their work and to exhibit proactive work behavior. In addition, the research probed the mediating roles of job characteristics and job embeddedness in a serial mediation model within an integrated model. Data were collected from 461 employees of three- to five-star hotels through stratified random sampling. Results indicated that (1) empowering leadership has positive influences on job characteristics and proactive work behavior; (2) job characteristics have a positive influence on job embeddedness; (3) job embeddedness has a positive influence on proactive work behavior; (4) job characteristics mediate the effect of empowering leadership on proactive work behavior; (5) job embeddedness mediates the effect of empowering leadership on proactive work behavior; and (6) job characteristics and job embeddedness jointly mediate the effect of empowering leadership on proactive work behavior by bootstrapping analyses. Accordingly, this study suggests that promoting sustainable human resource management is needed for human health and organizational value at work, both of which enable empowering leadership to improve proactive work behavior via job characteristics and job embeddedness. The theoretical and managerial implications of empirical findings are also discussed.
Do Public Pensions Improve Mental Wellbeing? Evidence from the New Rural Society Pension Insurance Program
Authors: Wang Fang , Zheng Haitao
Published: March 2021

The causal effect of public pensions on the mental wellbeing of the elderly in lower and middle-income countries deserves further investigation. This paper first constructed a theoretical framework for the impact of New Rural Society Pension Insurance pensions in China on the mental wellbeing of the rural elderly, and described potential channels through which pension income may affect mental wellbeing. We then used the fixed effect model and the instrument variable approach to estimate the casual effects of pension income on the mental wellbeing of the rural elderly. The results reveal that pension income improves mental wellbeing by relieving depression of the rural elderly; however, the beneficial effects of pension income are very limited. Pension income has no beneficial effects on the mental health of the rural elderly in the east region, whereas it slightly relieves depression of those in the middle and west regions. We also found that pension income produces small improvements in the mental health of older females, elderly persons living independently, and those with relatively poor economic conditions.
Skimmed Milk Applied as a Phytopharmaceutical Product: A Risk for Allergic Populations?
Authors: Graczyk Halshka , Vernez David , Savic Nenad , Milon Antoine , Masserey Eric
Published: March 2021

Milk allergy is among the most common food-related allergies. Milk-based products are recognized as plant protection products (PPPs) in several countries as alternatives to synthetic pesticides. The potential health risk for allergic workers, as well as the general population, is yet to be assessed. An investigation was conducted in the Vaud Canton of Switzerland, where milk-based products are sprayed by helicopter over vineyards. Air lactose concentration was measured at 14 locations via 25 mm IOM Multidust samplers. Residual lactose concentration was measured on the surface of leaves over 7 days following spraying. Surface contamination downwind from the treated area was estimated through computer-based modeling using AgDRIFT® software. The average milk protein concentration inside and outside the vineyard was 0.47 and 0.16 µg/m3, respectively. Milk residues persisted on the leaf surface for an average of three days. Modelling results revealed an estimated order of magnitude of 0.1–0.5 µg/m3 in milk proteins within one hour after the treatment in the close vicinity of the treated area. Our results reveal that the potential exposure to milk proteins in and around helicopter-treated vineyards is not negligible and that prevention messages targeted to individuals with severe allergies should be considered.