bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tree-Ring Analysis Reveals Density-Dependent Vulnerability to Drought in Planted Mongolian Pines
Authors: Sun ShouJia , Lei Shuai , Jia HanSen , Li Chunyou , Zhang JinSong , Meng Ping
Published: January 2020

Population density influences tree responses to environmental stresses, such as drought and high temperature. Prolonged drought negatively affects the health of Mongolian pines in forests planted by the Three-North Shelter Forest Program in North China. To understand the relationship between stand density and drought-induced forest decline, and to generate information regarding the development of future management strategies, we analyzed the vulnerability to drought of planted Mongolian pines at three stand densities. A tree-ring width index for trees from each density was established from tree-ring data covering the period 1988–2018 and was compared for differences in radial growth. Resistance (Rt), recovery (Rc), resilience (Rs), and relative resilience (RRs) in response to drought events were calculated from the smoothed basal area increment (BAI) curves. The high-density (HDT) group showed a consistently lower tree-ring width than the border trees (BT) and low-density (LDT) groups. The BAI curve of the HDT group started to decrease five years earlier than the LDT and BT groups. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that the radial growth of all of the groups was related to precipitation, relative humidity (RH), potential evapotranspiration (ET0), and standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) in the previous October and the most recent July, indicating that Mongolian pine trees of different densities had similar growth–climate relationships. Over the three decades, the trees experienced three severe drought events, each causing reduced tree-ring width and BAI. All of the groups showed similar Rc to each drought event, but the HDT group exhibited significantly lower Rt, Rs, and RRs than the BT group, suggesting that the HDT trees were more vulnerable to repeated drought stress. The RRs of the HDT group decreased progressively after each drought event and attained <0 after the third event. All of the groups showed similar trends regarding water consumption under varying weather conditions, but the HDT group showed significantly reduced whole-tree hydraulic capability compared with the other two groups. From these results, HDT trees exhibit ecophysiological memory effects from successive droughts, including sap flux dysfunction and higher competition index, which may prevent recovery of pre-drought growth rates. HDT trees may be at greater risk of mortality under future drought disturbance.
Forecasting Forest Areas in Myanmar Based on Socioeconomic Factors
Authors: Michinaka Tetsuya , Hlaing Ei , Oo Thaung , Mon Myat , Sato Tamotsu
Published: January 2020

National circumstances should be considered in establishing and adjusting forest reference emission levels (FRELs/FRLs) under the United Nations Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (UN-REDD+ Programme). Myanmar, one of the world’s least developed countries may face accelerating deforestation under an open and democratic political system that desires rapid economic development. This research analyzes the impacts of population growth and economic development on forest areas in Myanmar by using panel data analysis, an econometrics approach based on panel data of forest areas, population, and gross domestic product (GDP) by states and regions in 2005, 2010, and 2015. This research revealed that per capita GDP and population density gave statistically significant negative impacts on forest areas. Using the regression model obtained above, medium population growth projections, and three GDP development scenarios, annual forest areas from 2016 to 2020 were forecast. The forecasting results showed possible higher deforestation under higher economic development. Finally, this research showed the necessity of adjusting the current average deforestation for RELs in the REDD+ scheme in Myanmar and the direction in which the adjustment should go.
Disturbance History and Dynamics of an Old-Growth Nothofagus Forest in Southern Patagonia
Authors: Amoroso Mariano Martín , Blazina Ana Paula
Published: January 2020

The identification of disturbance events using disturbance chronologies has become a valuable tool in reconstructing disturbance history in temperate forests worldwide; yet detailed reconstructions of disturbance history and their effect on the structure and dynamics of the old-growth Nothofagus forests in the southern Patagonia are scarce. We reconstructed forest dynamics and disturbance history of an old-growth N. pumilio forest in the Toro River Valley, Santa Cruz, Argentina using dendroecological techniques. Since a variation in the disturbance regimes was expected with changing elevation, we sampled at different elevations. We found distinct differences in forest structure, dynamics, and disturbance history with changes in the elevation. The disturbance chronologies provided robust evidence that forests in the study area have been subjected to multiple disturbance events over the last 200 years. Yet, recognizing the agent of disturbance could be difficult in these montane forests and further studies are required. Moreover, disturbances might have varied from frequent, moderate- to high-severity events to less frequent and more severe events. This study represents the first of its kind for the temperate forests of Patagonia.
Disentangling the Roles of Topography, Patch, and Land Use on Conservation Trait Status of Specialist Birds in Marginal Forest Land Use Types
Authors: Zasadil Petr , Romportl Dušan , Horák Jakub
Published: January 2020

One of the main questions in ecology and conservation is how organisms are governed and affected by their traits within the context of abiotic gradients. The main question of our study addresses how patch, topography, and land use influence conservation trait status (rarity and red-list index) of birds generally, and of farmland and woodland specialists specifically, in marginal forest landscape types. We sampled birds from 68 traditional fruit orchards existing as remnants of agroforestry within the Pardubice Region of the Czech Republic during two consecutive years. We recorded 57 bird species, of which 31 species were forest dwellers and 16 farmland dwellers. Topographical predictors played the most significant role in influencing traits of the bird community as a whole. Farmland bird traits indicated the most balanced values, as they were significantly influenced by all studied predictor sets. Their responses nevertheless differed among the studied traits and also showed a more complex pattern because the values of interaction between some predictor categories were relatively high. Traits of woodland birds were most influenced by the patch configuration. We found that a structurally diversified marginal habitat type of traditional fruit orchards is able to promote a number of specialist species and also reveals important relationships between bird conservation traits and different predictor sets. Researchers should pay more attention to the conservation traits of birds and their interactions with environmental predictors. Furthermore, conservationists should be more attentive to the biodiversity value and sustainable management of traditional fruit orchards.
Cloning, Characterization and Expression Analysis of the Phosphate Starvation Response Gene, ClPHR1, from Chinese Fir
Authors: Chen Wanting , Chen Ranhong , Zhang Ying , Li Jiaoyang , Tigabu Mulualem , Ma Xiangqing , Li Ming
Published: January 2020

The study on the function and sequence of PHR1 (Phosphate Starvation Response gene 1) gene, which plays a central role in plant phosphorus (Pi) signal regulatory network, is of great significance to further study response mechanisms to Pi deficiency. In this work, the previously selected Pi-efficient Chinese fir clone M32 was used as research material to obtain the full-length sequence of ClPHR1 transcription factors in Chinese fir by RACE (Rapid Amplification of cDNA Ends) full-length cloning technique, and the structure, function and subcellular localization of ClPHR1 gene encoding protein were analyzed. The temporal and spatial expression characteristics of ClPHR1 transcription factors in Chinese fir under low Pi stress were also analyzed, and the overexpression of ClPHR1 gene in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana was obtained to verify the function of ClPHR1 gene under low Pi stress. The results showed that the length of the ClPHR1 gene obtained by rapid amplification of cDNA ends technique was 1954 bp, of which 1512 bp was an open reading frame. ClPHR1 was predicted to be an unstable hydrophilic protein with only one possible transmembrane domain. The ClPHR1 gene had a highly conserved MYB-CC domain, which is similar to the PHR1 gene of other plants. Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that the sequence had high homology with PHR1 genes in the Prunus species. The ClPHR1 was expressed in all organs of Chinese fir, with the highest expression in the roots, followed by the leaves with the lowest expression in stems. ClPHR1 expression in roots was reduced dramatically at the beginning of Pi stress treatment and followed by an increase at 7days; in leaves, it increased dramatically at the beginning of Pi starvation treatment and showed a decreasing trend after 3 days; in stems, the expression level of ClPHR1 increased after 7 days of Pi stress treatment. The transient expression vector was introduced into plant cells, and it was found that ClPHR1 was located in the nucleus and was a MYB-CC transcription factor expressed in the cell nucleus. The ClPHR1 overexpression vector was constructed, and then introduced into Arabidopsis thaliana by agrobacterium infection inflorescence method. The expressions of Pi transporter genes, AtPHT1;1, AtPHT1;2, AtPHT1;8 and AtPHT1;9, was significantly higher in the overexpressing strain than that in the wild type strain. The results suggest that the ClPHR1 transcription factor could regulate the regulation of downstream Pi transporter gene and increase Pi utilization efficiency of the Chinese fir under Pi stress.
The Role of Climate Niche, Geofloristic History, Habitat Preference, and Allometry on Wood Density within a California Plant Community
Authors: Nelson Rebecca A. , Francis Emily J. , Berry Joseph A. , Cornwell William K. , Anderegg Leander D. L.
Published: January 2020

Research Highlights: To better understand within-community variation in wood density, our study demonstrated that a more nuanced approach is required beyond the climate–wood density correlations used in global analyses. Background and Objectives: Global meta-analyses have shown higher wood density is associated with higher temperatures and lower rainfall, while site-specific studies have explained variation in wood density with structural constraints and allometry. On a regional scale, uncertainty exists as to what extent climate and structural demands explain patterns in wood density. We explored the role of species climate niche, geofloristic history, habitat specialization, and allometry on wood density variation within a California forest/chaparral community. Materials and Methods: We collected data on species wood density, climate niche, geofloristic history, and riparian habitat specialization for 20 species of trees and shrubs in a California forest. Results: We found a negative relationship between wood density and basal diameter to height ratio for riparian species and no relationship for non-riparian species. In contrast to previous studies, we found that climate signals had weak relationships with wood density, except for a positive relationship between wood density and the dryness of a species’ wet range edge (species with drier wet range margins have higher wood density). Wood density, however, did not correlate with the aridity of species’ dry range margins. Geofloristic history had no direct effect on wood density or climate niche for modern California plant communities. Conclusions: Within a California plant community, allometry influences wood density for riparian specialists, but non-riparian plants are ‘overbuilt’ such that wood density is not related to canopy structure. Meanwhile, the relationship of wood density to species’ aridity niches challenges our classic assumptions about the adaptive significance of high wood density as a drought tolerance trait.
Mitigating Webshell Attacks through Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Guo You , Marco-Gisbert Hector , Keir Paul
Published: January 2020

A webshell is a command execution environment in the form of web pages. It is often used by attackers as a backdoor tool for web server operations. Accurately detecting webshells is of great significance to web server protection. Most security products detect webshells based on feature-matching methods—matching input scripts against pre-built malicious code collections. The feature-matching method has a low detection rate for obfuscated webshells. However, with the help of machine learning algorithms, webshells can be detected more efficiently and accurately. In this paper, we propose a new PHP webshell detection model, the NB-Opcode (naïve Bayes and opcode sequence) model, which is a combination of naïve Bayes classifiers and opcode sequences. Through experiments and analysis on a large number of samples, the experimental results show that the proposed method could effectively detect a range of webshells. Compared with the traditional webshell detection methods, this method improves the efficiency and accuracy of webshell detection.
Long-Range Wireless Radio Technologies: A Survey
Authors: Foubert Brandon , Mitton Nathalie
Published: January 2020

Wireless networks are now a part of the everyday life of many people and are used for many applications. Recently, new technologies that enable low-power and long-range communications have emerged. These technologies, in opposition to more traditional communication technologies rather defined as "short range", allow kilometer-wide wireless communications. Long-range technologies are used to form Low-Power Wide-Area Networks (LPWAN). Many LPWAN technologies are available, and they offer different performances, business models etc., answering different applications’ needs. This makes it hard to find the right tool for a specific use case. In this article, we present a survey about the long-range technologies available presently as well as the technical characteristics they offer. Then we propose a discussion about the energy consumption of each alternative and which one may be most adapted depending on the use case requirements and expectations, as well as guidelines to choose the best suited technology.
Unwinding BRAHMA Functions in Plants
Authors: Thouly Caroline , Le Masson Marie , Lai Xuelei , Carles Cristel C. , Vachon Gilles
Published: January 2020

The ATP-dependent Switch/Sucrose non-fermenting (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complex (CRC) regulates the transcription of many genes by destabilizing interactions between DNA and histones. In plants, BRAHMA (BRM), one of the two catalytic ATPase subunits of the complex, is the closest homolog of the yeast and animal SWI2/SNF2 ATPases. We summarize here the advances describing the roles of BRM in plant development as well as its recently reported chromatin-independent role in pri-miRNA processing in vitro and in vivo. We also enlighten the roles of plant-specific partners that physically interact with BRM. Three main types of partners can be distinguished: (i) DNA-binding proteins such as transcription factors which mostly cooperate with BRM in developmental processes, (ii) enzymes such as kinases or proteasome-related proteins that use BRM as substrate and are often involved in response to abiotic stress, and (iii) an RNA-binding protein which is involved with BRM in chromatin-independent pri-miRNA processing. This overview contributes to the understanding of the central position occupied by BRM within regulatory networks controlling fundamental biological processes in plants.
Mapping DNA Topoisomerase Binding and Cleavage Genome Wide Using Next-Generation Sequencing Techniques
Authors: McKie Shannon J. , Maxwell Anthony , Neuman Keir C.
Published: January 2020

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms have been adapted to generate genome-wide maps and sequence context of binding and cleavage of DNA topoisomerases (topos). Continuous refinements of these techniques have resulted in the acquisition of data with unprecedented depth and resolution, which has shed new light on in vivo topo behavior. Topos regulate DNA topology through the formation of reversible single- or double-stranded DNA breaks. Topo activity is critical for DNA metabolism in general, and in particular to support transcription and replication. However, the binding and activity of topos over the genome in vivo was difficult to study until the advent of NGS. Over and above traditional chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-seq approaches that probe protein binding, the unique formation of covalent protein–DNA linkages associated with DNA cleavage by topos affords the ability to probe cleavage and, by extension, activity over the genome. NGS platforms have facilitated genome-wide studies mapping the behavior of topos in vivo, how the behavior varies among species and how inhibitors affect cleavage. Many NGS approaches achieve nucleotide resolution of topo binding and cleavage sites, imparting an extent of information not previously attainable. We review the development of NGS approaches to probe topo interactions over the genome in vivo and highlight general conclusions and quandaries that have arisen from this rapidly advancing field of topoisomerase research.
Shedding Light on the Antimicrobial Peptide Arsenal of Terrestrial Isopods: Focus on Armadillidins, a New Crustacean AMP Family
Authors: Becking Thomas , Delaunay Carine , Cordaux Richard , Berjeaud Jean-Marc , Braquart-Varnier Christine , Verdon Julien
Published: January 2020

In crustaceans, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are clustered into four major groups according to their amino acid composition and structure: (1) single-domain peptides containing cysteine residues such as anti-lipopolysaccharide-factor (ALF), (2) multi-domain or chimeric AMPs such as crustins, (3) non-conventional AMPs, and (4) linear single-domain AMPs. The majority of AMPs has been described in commercially exploited crustaceans, particularly decapods living in aquatic environments (crab, shrimp, lobster, and crayfish). Here, we aimed at establishing the AMPs repertoire of terrestrial isopods (Oniscidea), an original suborder of crustaceans adapted to life outside of the aquatic environment. Using transcriptomic data from 21 species, we identified 110 ALF and 73 crustin sequences. We also characterized the full-length sequence of armadillidins from 17 species, similar to the AMP previously described in the terrestrial isopod Armadillidium vulgare. Furthermore, we tested the antimicrobial activity of three armadillidin peptides characterized from three distantly related species. This analysis revealed similar activity spectra against pathogens, despite extensive structural variation among the tested peptides. In addition to conventional crustacean AMPs, our work highlights armadillidins as a new and independent family of AMPs specific to the Oniscidea, thus opening new perspectives concerning the study of the immune system of terrestrial isopods.
The Complete Genome of an Endogenous Nimavirus (Nimav-1_LVa) From the Pacific Whiteleg Shrimp Penaeus (Litopenaeus) Vannamei
Authors: Bao Weidong , Tang Kathy , Alcivar-Warren Acacia
Published: January 2020

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV), the lone virus of the genus Whispovirus under the family Nimaviridae, is one of the most devastating viruses affecting the shrimp farming industry. Knowledge about this virus, in particular, its evolution history, has been limited, partly due to its large genome and the lack of other closely related free-living viruses for comparative studies. In this study, we reconstructed a full-length endogenous nimavirus consensus genome, Nimav-1_LVa (279,905 bp), in the genome sequence of Penaeus (Litopenaeus) vannamei breed Kehai No. 1 (ASM378908v1). This endogenous virus seemed to insert exclusively into the telomeric pentanucleotide microsatellite (TAACC/GGTTA)n. It encoded 117 putative genes, with some containing introns, such as g012 (inhibitor of apoptosis, IAP), g046 (crustacean hyperglycemic hormone, CHH), g155 (innexin), g158 (Bax inhibitor 1 like). More than a dozen Nimav-1_LVa genes are involved in the pathogen-host interactions. We hypothesized that g046, g155, g158, and g227 (semaphorin 1A like) were recruited host genes for their roles in immune regulation. Sequence analysis indicated that a total of 43 WSSV genes belonged to the ancestral/core nimavirus gene set, including four genes reported in this study: wsv112 (dUTPase), wsv206, wsv226, and wsv308 (nucleocapsid protein). The availability of the Nimav-1_LVa sequence would help understand the genetic diversity, epidemiology, evolution, and virulence of WSSV.
Reworking GWAS Data to Understand the Role of Nongenetic Factors in MS Etiopathogenesis
Authors: Mechelli Rosella , Umeton Renato , Manfrè Grazia , Romano Silvia , Buscarinu Maria Chiara , Rinaldi Virginia , Bellucci Gianmarco , Bigi Rachele , Ferraldeschi Michela , Salvetti Marco , Ristori Giovanni
Published: January 2020

Genome-wide association studies have identified more than 200 multiple sclerosis (MS)-associated loci across the human genome over the last decade, suggesting complexity in the disease etiology. This complexity poses at least two challenges: the definition of an etiological model including the impact of nongenetic factors, and the clinical translation of genomic data that may be drivers for new druggable targets. We reviewed studies dealing with single genes of interest, to understand how MS-associated single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variants affect the expression and the function of those genes. We then surveyed studies on the bioinformatic reworking of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data, with aggregate analyses of many GWAS loci, each contributing with a small effect to the overall disease predisposition. These investigations uncovered new information, especially when combined with nongenetic factors having possible roles in the disease etiology. In this context, the interactome approach, defined as “modules of genes whose products are known to physically interact with environmental or human factors with plausible relevance for MS pathogenesis”, will be reported in detail. For a future perspective, a polygenic risk score, defined as a cumulative risk derived from aggregating the contributions of many DNA variants associated with a complex trait, may be integrated with data on environmental factors affecting the disease risk or protection.
The Effect Sizes of PPARγ rs1801282, FTO rs9939609, and MC4R rs2229616 Variants on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Risk among the Western Saudi Population: A Cross-Sectional Prospective Study
Authors: Bakhashab Sherin , Filimban Najlaa , Altall Rana M. , Nassir Rami , Qusti Safaa Y. , Alqahtani Mohammed H. , Abuzenadah Adel M. , Dallol Ashraf
Published: January 2020

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common polygenic disease with associated comorbidities. Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of T2DM. The aim of this study is to determine the allele and genotype frequency of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) rs1801282, fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) rs9939609, and melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) rs2229616 polymorphisms and their association with risk of T2DM in the western Saudi population as mediators of adiposity phenotypes. In a cross-sectional prospective study, genomic DNA from control and T2DM patients were isolated and genotyped for these single-nucleotide polymorphisms. There was a significant association of the MC4R rs2229616 variant with T2DM, but no association with T2DM was detected with PPARγ rs1801282 or FTO rs9939609. The combination of C/C for PPARγ rs1801282, A/A for FTO rs9939609, and C/C for MC4R rs2229616 increased the risk of T2DM by 1.82. The A/T genotype for FTO rs9939609 was predicted to decrease the risk of T2DM when combined with C/C for PPARγ rs1801282 and C/C for MC4R rs2229616 or C/C for PPARγ rs1801282 and C/T MC4R rs2229616. In conclusion, our study showed the risk of the assessed variants for the development of T2DM in the Saudi population.
Geostatistics and Structure from Motion Techniques for Coastal Pollution Assessment along the Policoro Coast (Southern Italy)
Authors: Cagnazzo Cosimo , Potente Ettore , Rosato Sabino , Mastronuzzi Giuseppe
Published: January 2020

The coastal system, with its physical chemical and biological components, is the place where the lithosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere intersect and interact, and in which human activity has a considerable impact on the balance of the whole ecosystem. The aim of this study is to assess the health of the coastal environment in a natural protected area in Policoro (Italy). Sand samples have been collected and analysed to detect the presence of environmental contaminants and pollutants (heavy metals). A photogrammetric survey was carried out using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and an updated orthophoto of the area was obtained using the Structure from Motion (SfM) processing technique. Geostatistical techniques have been used to assess the distribution of the contaminants in the study area.
Design and Development of a Wearable Exoskeleton System for Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Ou Yang-Kun , Wang Yu-Lin , Chang Hua-Cheng , Chen Chun-Chih
Published: January 2020

For more than a decade, many countries have been actively developing robotic assistive devices to assist in the rehabilitation of individuals with limb disability to regain function in the extremities. The exoskeleton assistive device in this study has been designed primarily for hemiplegic stroke patients to aid in the extension of fingers to open up the palm to simulate the effects of rehabilitation. This exoskeleton was designed as an anterior-support type to achieve palmar extension and acts as a robotic assistive device for rehabilitation in bilateral upper limb task training. Testing results show that this wearable exoskeleton assistive device with human factor consideration using percentile dimensions can provide comfortable wear on patients as well as adequate torque to pull individual fingers into flexion towards the palm for rehabilitation. We hope this exoskeleton device can help stroke patients with loss of function in the upper extremities to resume motor activities in order to maintain activities of daily living.
Development of a Responsible Policy Index to Improve Statutory and Self-Regulatory Policies that Protect Children’s Diet and Health in the America’s Region
Authors: Rincón-Gallardo Patiño Sofía , Rajamohan Srijith , Meaney Kathleen , Coupey Eloise , Serrano Elena , Hedrick Valisa , da Silva Gomes Fabio , Polys Nicholas , Kraak Vivica
Published: January 2020

In 2010, 193 Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) endorsed World Health Assembly Resolution WHA63.14 to restrict the marketing of food and beverage products high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) to children to prevent obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). No study has examined HFSS marketing policies across the WHO regional office countries in the Americas. Between 2018 and 2019, a transdisciplinary team examined policies to restrict HFSS food and beverage product marketing to children to develop a responsible policy index (RESPI) that provides a quality score based on policy characteristics and marketing techniques. After designing the RESPI, we conducted a comprehensive literature review through October 2019 to examine policies in 14 countries in the WHO Americans Region. We categorized policies (n = 38) as either self-regulatory or statutory and calculated the RESPI scores, ranked from 0 (lowest) to 10 (highest). Results showed Brazil, Canada, Chile, and Uruguay had the highest RESPI scores associated with statutory policies that restricted point of sale, cartoon, licensed media characters and celebrities; and HFSS products in schools and child care settings, and broadcast and print media. Policymakers can use the RESPI tool to evaluate marketing policies within and across geopolitical boundaries to protect children’s diet and health.
Time Spent at Work and Its Impact on the Academic Performance of Pharmacy Students
Authors: Okogbaa John , Allen Rondall E. , Sarpong Daniel F.
Published: January 2020

The objective of this study was to determine the impact of time spent at work (workload) on the academic performance of pharmacy students. A cross-sectional 12-item survey was administered to pharmacy students at the end of the spring 2011 semester to primarily assess the type of employment and their weekly workload during the 2010–2011 academic year. Academic performance was determined by semester and cumulative grade point average (GPA). Descriptive statistics were performed. Stratified multiple linear regression models were obtained to assess the association between students’ workload and GPA. Analysis of covariance was used to compare academic performance by workload after accounting for work type and potential covariates. Statistical significance was defined a priori as p < 0.05. For both fall and spring semesters, nonpharmacy-related work was significant and positively associated with GPA. Both semester GPAs were fairly similar among three student classifications (P1–P3). However, GPAs across both semesters varied by classification. The negative association of workload on GPA was significant in the fall but not in the spring semester. Although workload matters, future studies using a mixed-method approach might help explain the role of workload on the academic performance of pharmacy during the first three years of their professional training.
Analysis of Relevant Features from Photoplethysmographic Signals for Atrial Fibrillation Classification
Authors: Millán César A. , Girón Nathalia A. , Lopez Diego M.
Published: January 2020

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia found in clinical practice. It affects an estimated 33.5 million people, representing approximately 0.5% of the world’s population. Electrocardiogram (ECG) is the main diagnostic criterion for AF. Recently, photoplethysmography (PPG) has emerged as a simple and portable alternative for AF detection. However, it is not completely clear which are the most important features of the PPG signal to perform this process. The objective of this paper is to determine which are the most relevant features for PPG signal analysis in the detection of AF. This study is divided into two stages: (a) a systematic review carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Diagnostic Test Accuracy Studies (PRISMA-DTA) statement in six databases, in order to identify the features of the PPG signal reported in the literature for the detection of AF, and (b) an experimental evaluation of them, using machine learning, in order to determine which have the greatest influence on the process of detecting AF. Forty-four features were found when analyzing the signal in the time, frequency, or time–frequency domains. From those 44 features, 27 were implemented, and through machine learning, it was found that only 11 are relevant in the detection process. An algorithm was developed for the detection of AF based on these 11 features, which obtained an optimal performance in terms of sensitivity (98.43%), specificity (99.52%), and accuracy (98.97%).
From Sedentary and Physical Inactive Behaviours to an Ultra Cycling Race: A Mixed-Method Case Report
Authors: Guex Kenny , Wicht Sophie , Besson Cyril , Degache Francis , Gojanovic Boris , Gremion Gerald
Published: January 2020

In faculties of health sciences, almost 30% of nursing students exercise less than once a week. This mixed-method case report presents the 38-month evolution of the physiological and psychological health parameters of a sedentary and physically inactive nursing student. During this period, she first took part in a one-semester institutional physical activity (PA) program that was offered by her university before being selected for participation in the Race Across America (RAAM) with a university relay team. In the four months leading up to the RAAM, she followed a cycling training program. After the RAAM, she was followed-up for the next 28 months. The results showed that each phase of the study had an important impact on the subject and showed that sedentary and physical inactive behaviours are reversible. Institutional PA programs, including training education in addition to concurrent strength and endurance training, can lead to physiological and psychological health improvements. For some individuals, participating in an athletic challenge can improve motivation and long-term adherence to PA participation. An individualised approach should be considered in future interventions that aim to promote PA participation. In the specific context of a university of health sciences, this kind of initiative could positively influence the general population’s health by empowering students to become role models towards PA promotion.
Air Monitoring Stations Far Removed From Drilling Activities Do Not Represent Residential Exposures to Marcellus Shale Air Pollutants. Response to the Paper by Hess et al. on Proximity-Based Unconventional Natural Gas Exposure Metrics
Authors: Buonocore Jonathan J. , Casey Joan A. , Croy Rachel , Spengler John D. , McKenzie Lisa
Published: January 2020

In their study “Assessing Agreement in Exposure Classification between Proximity-Based Metrics and Air Monitoring Data in Epidemiology Studies of Unconventional Resource Development” Hess et al [...]
Can Children of Different Ages Recognize Dog Communication Signals in Different Situations?
Authors: Eretová Petra , Chaloupková Helena , Hefferová Marcela , Jozífková Eva
Published: January 2020

The presented study examines the ability of 265 children aged 4–12 years to correctly assign contextual cues and inner state values to a set of audio and audio-visual recordings of dog vocalizations and behaviors in different situations. Participants were asked to mark which situation each recording captured, what inner state of the dog it showed, and what inner state a human would feel in the same situation. Recognition of the inner state of dogs was affected by the age of the child when evaluating the audio recordings (p < 0.001), and such a tendency was revealed in evaluating the audiovisual materials (p = 0.08). The inner state of dog evaluation was associated with both the situation assessment (p < 0.01) and human inner state (p < 0.001) in the case of audio recordings, but it was only correlated with situation assessment in audio-visual recordings (p < 0.01). The contextual situations were recognized by the participants only in the audio materials, with “stranger” being the best recognized situation, while “play” was the least recognized. Overall, children aged 4–5 years showed a limited ability to understand dog signals compared to children aged 6–12 years, who were successful in recognizing the dogs’ stimuli more than 80% of the time. Therefore, children younger than 6 years of age require increased supervision when interacting with dogs.
Anthropometric and Physical Fitness Profiles of World-Class Male Padel Players
Authors: Sánchez-Muñoz Cristóbal , Muros José Joaquín , Cañas Jerónimo , Courel-Ibáñez Javier , Sánchez-Alcaraz Bernardino Javier , Zabala Mikel
Published: January 2020

The aims of this study were to describe and compare the anthropometric and physical fitness attributes of male padel players according to their competitive level, and to establish a functional anthropometric and physical profile. A total of 60 males participated in the present study. Athletes were grouped according to competition level, forming an elite group (n = 25) and a subelite group (n = 35). Anthropometric variables, hand grip and lumbar isometric strength, flexibility, and lower-body muscular strength were measured. Elite padel players were significantly older and showed significantly lower values for the thigh and calf skinfolds, the sum of six and eight skinfolds, and the sum of lower-limb skinfolds than the subelite group. Elite padel players also had significantly lower values than subelite players for body fat percentage and thigh fat area, whilst showing significantly higher values for lumbar isometric strength. Somatotype of the elite padel players could be defined as endo-mesomorphic. Results suggest that training and talent identification of padel players should focus on their anthropometric characteristics and physical fitness, with these being different between elite and subelite athletes. Normative data could help coaches throughout the talent identification process and in the design of training programs when seeking to optimise sports performance.
Sex and Gender Interactions on the Use and Impact of Recreational Cannabis
Authors: Greaves Lorraine , Hemsing Natalie
Published: January 2020

Cannabis is the second most frequently used substance in the world and regulated or legalized for recreational use in Canada and fourteen US states and territories. As with all substances, a wide range of sex and gender related factors have an influence on how substances are consumed, their physical, mental and social impacts, and how men and women respond to treatment, health promotion, and policies. Given the widespread use of cannabis, and in the context of its increasing regulation, it is important to better understand the sex and gender related factors associated with recreational cannabis use in order to make more precise clinical, programming, and policy decisions. However, sex and gender related factors include a wide variety of processes, features and influences that are rarely fully considered in research. This article explores myriad features of both sex and gender as concepts, illustrates their impact on cannabis use, and focuses on the interactions of sex and gender that affect three main areas of public interest: the development of cannabis use dependence, the impact on various routes of administration (ROA), and the impact on impaired driving. We draw on two separate scoping reviews to examine available evidence in regard to these issues. These three examples are described and illustrate the need for more comprehensive and precise integration of sex and gender in substance use research, as well as serious consideration of the results of doing so, when addressing a major public health issue such as recreational cannabis use.
Exploring the Relationship between Green Space in a Neighbourhood and Cardiovascular Health in the Winter City of China: A Study Using a Health Survey for Harbin
Authors: Leng Hong , Li Shuyuan , Yan Shichun , An Xiuli
Published: January 2020

A severely cold climate has a significant impact on cardiovascular health, involving temperature, air environment, exercise and diet. Existing studies have revealed that green space, as an important health resource, may play a positive role in promoting cardiovascular health through the air environment and exercise. Studies focusing on the correlation between green space and cardiovascular health are rarely carried out in winter cities. The purpose of this paper is to take a winter city in China as an empirical case to explore the correlation between green space in a neighbourhood and cardiovascular health in a representative sample at the neighbourhood level, combining the results with Urban Residential Area Planning and Design Standards (GB50180-2018) in China and the existing research. The results showed that green space characteristics of a neighbourhood were related to cardiovascular disease and some of its risk factors. In neighbourhoods with a Green Space Ratio lower than 28%, residents had a higher risk of physical inactivity, overweight or obesity, hypertension and stroke. In neighbourhoods with a Green View Index lower than 15%, residents had a higher risk of physical inactivity, overweight/obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia and stroke. A correlation was found between evergreen tree configuration type and the prevalence of overweight/obesity and hypertension. No correlation was found between the type of sports field and cardiovascular disease and its risk factors, except for hypertension. Residents’ cardiovascular health scores also showed significant differences among neighbourhoods with different green space characteristics. Intervention efforts may benefit from emphasising the importance of improving the Green Space Ratio and Green View Index effectively in a neighbourhood to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Study on the Utilization of Inpatient Services for Middle-Aged and Elderly Rural Females in Less Developed Regions of China
Authors: Wen Xiaotong , Cui Lanyue , Yuan Fang , Liu Xiaojun , Ouyang Mufeng , Sun Yuxiao , Liu Yuchen , Liu Yong , Yu Huiqiang , Zheng Huilie , Lu Yuanan , Yuan Zhaokang
Published: January 2020

The aim of this study is to understand the utilization of inpatient services and its contributing factors among middle-aged and elderly females (MAEF) in less developed rural regions. Five surveys were conducted between 2006 and 2014 with rural residents of Jiangxi by stratified cluster random sampling. Participant females included only those who were aged 45 and above. Complex sampling logistics analysis was performed to analyze the effect of three factors on inpatient service. Complex sampling logistics regression analysis revealed that the probability of hospitalization for the divorced or widowed females was significantly lower than that of married ones (aOR = 0.177, p < 0.05). However, the probability of early discharge was significantly higher among divorced or widowed females than married ones (aOR = 3.237, p < 0.05). In addition, females with chronic diseases were more likely to be hospitalized (aOR = 3.682, p < 0.05). Also, early discharge (aOR = 7.689, p < 0.05) occurred among the participants who should be hospitalized but were not hospitalized occurred (aOR = 3.258, p < 0.05). The continuous improvement of the new rural cooperative medical policy has promoted the utilization of inpatient services for the MAEF. Findings from this study emphasize the need to strengthen the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases among middle-aged and elderly women.
Built and Natural Environmental Correlates of Parental Safety Concerns for Children’s Active Travel to School
Authors: Kim Young-Jae , Lee Chanam
Published: January 2020

This cross-sectional study examines built and natural environmental correlates of parental safety concerns for children’s active travel to school (ATS), controlling for socio-demographic, attitudinal, and social factors. Questionnaire surveys (n = 3291) completed by parents who had 1st–6th grade children were collected in 2011 from 20 elementary schools in Austin, Texas. Objectively-measured built and natural environmental data were derived from two software programs: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Environment for Visualizing Images (ENVI). Ordinal least square regressions were used for statistical analyses in this study. Results from the fully adjusted final model showed that bike lanes, the presence of highway and railroads, the presence of sex offenders, and steep slopes along the home-to-school route were associated with increased parental safety concerns, while greater intersection density and greater tree canopy coverage along the route were associated with decreased parental safety concerns. Natural elements and walking-friendly elements of the built environment appear important in reducing parental safety concerns, which is a necessary step toward promoting children’s ATS.
Extent of Primary DNA Damage Measured by the Comet Assay in Health Professionals Exposed to Antineoplastic Drugs: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gianfredi Vincenza , Nucci Daniele , Fatigoni Cristina , Salvatori Tania , Villarini Milena , Moretti Massimo
Published: January 2020

Background: Antineoplastic drugs (ANDs) are a broad group of chemicals showing, at the same time, carcinogenic effects. The potential, albeit true, risk of side effects cannot be accepted, especially if resulting from occupational exposure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between occupational exposure to ANDs and the extent of primary DNA damage in health professionals. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus were used to perform the literature search. The databases were examined in July 2019. Sub-group, moderator, and cumulative analyses were conducted. The trim and fill method was used in the case of potential publication bias. Results: Twenty studies were included in the qualitative analysis, and 19 in quantitative evaluation. The pooled effect size was 1.27 [(95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.66–1.88), p = 0.000] based on 1569 subjects. The moderator analysis by duration of exposure showed a positive association between duration of exposure and primary DNA damage. Conclusions: This systematic review clearly shows a significant association between occupational exposure to ANDs and the extent of primary DNA damage in health professionals. Considering these results, health professionals should be warned against this potential occupational risk.
Resilience Assessment of Complex Urban Public Spaces
Authors: Xu Hui , Li Yang , Wang Lin
Published: January 2020

Risk events frequently occur in “complex urban public spaces” (CUPSs) and cause serious economic losses and casualties. To reduce the risks and enhance the system resilience, this paper formulates a theoretical framework to assess the resilience of CUPSs. Resilience is defined as the ratio of preparedness to vulnerability, according to the implication of the concept. Three-level practical indicator systems were established for these two dimensions, respectively. Furthermore, a hybrid approach combining the Analytic Network Process (ANP) and the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) was adopted. The Chongqing West Railway Station (the Station (W)) and the Lianglukou Rail Transit Station (the Station (L)) were used for a case study. The results showed that the Chongqing West Railway Station was more resilient to risks than the Lianglukou Rail Transit Station. Therefore, the proposed theoretical framework could be applied in assessing the resilience level of CUPSs. Resilience improvement strategies can be formulated according to the assessment results. Furthermore, the practical indicators could also provide references for urban disaster management.
VIKOR Method for MAGDM Based on Q-Rung Interval-Valued Orthopair Fuzzy Information and Its Application to Supplier Selection of Medical Consumption Products
Authors: Gao Hui , Ran Linggang , Wei Guiwu , Wei Cun , Wu Jiang
Published: January 2020

The VIKOR model has been considered a viable tool for many decision-making applications in the past few years, given the advantages of considering the compromise between maximizing the utility of group and minimizing personal regrets. The q-rung interval-valued orthopair fuzzy set (q-RIVOFS) is a generalization of intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) and Pythagorean fuzzy set (PFS) and has emerged to solve more complex and uncertain decision making problems which IFS and PFS cannot handle. In this manuscript, the key innovation is to combine the traditional VIKOR model with q-RIVOFS to develop the q-rung interval-valued orthopair fuzzy VIKOR model. In the new developed model, to express more information, the attribute’s values in MAGDM problems are depicted by q-RIVOFNs. First of all, some basic theories and aggregation operators of q-RIVOFNs are simply introduced. Then we develop the origin VIKOR model to q-RIVOFS environment and briefly express the computing steps of this new established model. Thereafter, the effectiveness of the model is verified by an example of supplier selection of medical consumer products and through comparative analysis, the superiority of the new method is further illustrated.