bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Analysis of VPSA Technology Retrofitted to Steam Reforming Hydrogen Plants to Capture CO2 and Produce Blue H2
Authors: Luberti Mauro , Brown Alexander , Balsamo Marco , Capocelli Mauro
Published: February 2022

The increasing demand for energy and commodities has led to escalating greenhouse gas emissions, the chief of which is represented by carbon dioxide (CO2). Blue hydrogen (H2), a low-carbon hydrogen produced from natural gas with carbon capture technologies applied, has been suggested as a possible alternative to fossil fuels in processes with hard-to-abate emission sources, including refining, chemical, petrochemical and transport sectors. Due to the recent international directives aimed to combat climate change, even existing hydrogen plants should be retrofitted with carbon capture units. To optimize the process economics of such retrofit, it has been proposed to remove CO2 from the pressure swing adsorption (PSA) tail gas to exploit the relatively high CO2 concentration. This study aimed to design and numerically investigate a vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) process capable of capturing CO2 from the PSA tail gas of an industrial steam methane reforming (SMR)-based hydrogen plant using NaX zeolite adsorbent. The effect of operating conditions, such as purge-to-feed ratio and desorption pressure, were evaluated in relation to CO2 purity, CO2 recovery, bed productivity and specific energy consumption. We found that conventional cycle configurations, namely a 2-bed, 4-step Skarstrom cycle and a 2-bed, 6-step modified Skarstrom cycle with pressure equalization, were able to concentrate CO2 to a purity greater than 95% with a CO2 recovery of around 77% and 90%, respectively. Therefore, the latter configuration could serve as an efficient process to decarbonize existing hydrogen plants and produce blue H2.
Relative Importance of Landscape and Climate Factors to the Species Diversity of Plant Growth Forms along an East Asian Archipelago
Authors: Lee Min-Ki , Lee Ho-Sang , Lee Hae-In , Lee Sang-Wook , Lee Yong-Ju , Lee Chang-Bae
Published: February 2022

Previous studies on island biogeography theory have limitations in that they are mostly focused on total plant species and the landscape factors of the islands. Our study was conducted to overcome these limitations by dividing the plants into five growth forms and analyzing climate and landscape factors on inhabited islands, uninhabited islands, and overall. This was achieved using plant data from 578 islands of an archipelago in South Korea. To test the relationship between the species richness of each growth form and environmental factors, we performed ordinary least squares regressions and multi-model inference tests. The results showed that the island area had the largest influence on species richness of all growth forms in overall and uninhabited islands. Moreover, climate factors, in addition to island area, significantly affected species richness of all growth forms on inhabited islands. However, the effect and of isolation-related landscape factors (i.e., distance from the mainland and structural connectivity) were different among growth forms and island categories. Our study reveals that there are differences in the effects of environmental factors on the growth forms of plants among island categories. This suggests that biodiversity management and conservation strategies should be applied separately to different growth forms and islands.
Warming Responses of Leaf Morphology Are Highly Variable among Tropical Tree Species
Authors: Manishimwe Aloysie , Ntirugulirwa Bonaventure , Zibera Etienne , Nyirambangutse Brigitte , Mujawamariya Myriam , Dusenge Mirindi E. , Bizuru Elias , Nsabimana Donat , Uddling Johan , Wallin Göran
Published: February 2022

Leaf morphological traits vary along climate gradients, but it is currently unclear to what extent this results from acclimation rather than adaptation. Knowing so is important for predicting the functioning of long-lived organisms, such as trees, in a rapidly changing climate. We investigated the leaf morphological warming responses of 18 tropical tree species with early (ES) abd late (LS) successional strategies, planted at three sites along an elevation gradient from 2400 m a.s.l. (15.2 °C mean temperature) to 1300 m a.s.l. (20.6 °C mean temperature) in Rwanda. Leaf size expressed as leaf area (LA) and leaf mass per area (LMA) decreased, while leaf width-to-length ratio (W/L) increased with warming, but only for one third to half of the species. While LA decreased in ES species, but mostly not in LS species, changes in LMA and leaf W/L were common in both successional groups. ES species had lower LMA and higher LA and leaf W/L compared to LS species. Values of LMA and LA of juvenile trees in this study were mostly similar to corresponding data on four mature tree species in another elevation-gradient study in Rwanda, indicating that our results are applicable also to mature forest trees. We conclude that leaf morphological responses to warming differ greatly between both successional groups and individual species, with potential consequences for species competitiveness and community composition in a warmer climate.
The Quality and Functional Improvement of Retorted Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang) by Enzymolysis Pre-Treatment with Cordyceps militaris Mushroom Extract
Authors: Barido Farouq Heidar , Kang Sun Moon , Lee Sung Ki
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to investigate the functional and quality improvement of retorted Korean ginseng chicken soup that was hydrolyzed using a single extract from Cordyceps militaris (CM) mushroom, or in combination with bromelain, flavorzyme, or a mix of both. A total of 36 fat-trimmed breast meat from commercial broilers were hydrolyzed with one of six treatments, (1) flavorzyme as a positive control (PC), (2) no addition as negative control (NC), (3) crude CM extract (CME), CM extract prepared with either (4) bromelain (CMB), (5) flavorzyme (CMF), or (6) bromelain:flavorzyme mixture (CMBF) in a water bath at 55 °C for 2.5 h, and subsequently retorted at 121.1 °C, 147.1 kPa for 1 h. The highest antioxidant activity was observed in the CMB treatment (40.32%), followed by CMBF (34.20%), and CME (32.97%). The suppression of malondialdehyde ranged between 28 and 83%. The water-holding-capacity of the treated samples increased, ranging between 59.69 and 62.98%, and significantly tenderized the meat. The shear force decreased from 23.05 N in negative control to 11.67 N in the CMB samples. The predominant nucleotides across the samples were 5′-IMP and hypoxanthine, and the lowest was adenosine. The intensification of the taste properties was due to the increase of umami substances, both by 5′-nucleotides (5′-IMP, 5′-GMP) and free amino acids (FAAs), whereas the highest improvement was observed in the CMB group. Therefore, the hydrolyzation of Korean ginseng chicken soup using CM extract, prepared using bromelain, improves functional and quality profiles.
Gluten Conformation at Different Temperatures and Additive Treatments
Authors: Chompoorat Pavalee , Fasasi Ayuba , Lavine Barry K. , Rayas-Duarte Patricia
Published: February 2022

The effect of temperature (25, 45, and 65 °C) on the gluten secondary structure was investigated by using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and modulation of disulfide and hydrogen bonds contributions (100 ppm ascorbic acid (AA), 0.6% diacetyl tartaric acid ester of monoglycerides (DATEM), and 0.25 mM dithiothreitol (DTT)). The results showed that additives heated at 65 °C altered most of the gluten matrix formation by changing structural secondary structures compared to the secondary structures of native gluten (control). The content of random coils, α-helices, and β-sheet of gluten increased, while the extent of β-turns and antiparallel β-sheets decreased, which led to the transformation to a more stable secondary conformation. In addition, the rheological properties (%creep strain) revealed that gluten deformation increased during the heating process with all of the additives. The chemometric method could quantitate an overall alteration of gluten polymerization and gluten matrix formation during heating with additive treatments.
Unraveling Gut Microbiota Signatures Associated with PPARD and PARGC1A Genetic Polymorphisms in a Healthy Population
Authors: Bailén María , Tabone Mariangela , Bressa Carlo , Lominchar María Gregoria Montalvo , Larrosa Mar , González-Soltero Rocío
Published: February 2022

Recent studies have revealed the importance of the gut microbiota in the regulation of metabolic phenotypes of highly prevalent metabolic diseases such as obesity, type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a family of ligand-activated nuclear receptors that interact with PPAR-γ co-activator-1α (PPARGC1A) to regulate lipid and glucose metabolism. Genetic polymorphisms in PPARD (rs 2267668; A/G) and PPARGC1A (rs 8192678; G/A) are linked to T2DM. We studied the association between the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs 2267668 and rs 8192678 and microbiota signatures and their relation to predicted metagenome functions, with the aim of determining possible microbial markers in a healthy population. Body composition, physical exercise and diet were characterized as potential confounders. Microbiota analysis of subjects with PPARGC1A (rs 8192678) and PPARD (rs 2267668) SNPs revealed certain taxa associated with the development of insulin resistance and T2DM. Kyoto encyclopedia of gene and genomes analysis of metabolic pathways predicted from metagenomes highlighted an overrepresentation of ABC sugar transporters for the PPARGC1A (rs 8192678) SNP. Our findings suggest an association between sugar metabolism and the PPARGC1A rs 8192678 (G/A) genotype and support the notion of specific microbiota signatures as factors related to the onset of T2DM.
Arsenic Mineral in Volcanic Tuff, a Source of Arsenic Anomaly in Groundwater: City of Chihuahua, Mexico
Authors: Ren Minghua , Rodríguez-Pineda José Alfredo , Goodell Philip
Published: February 2022

Arsenic is a naturally occurring trace element that causes many health effects when present in drinking water. Elevated arsenic concentrations in water are often attributed to nearby felsic volcanic sequences; however, the specific rock units to which the groundwater anomalies can be accredited are rarely identified. The groundwater from wells around the city of Chihuahua, Mexico, contains high arsenic content. Arsenic in groundwater increases toward the base rock containing Tertiary volcanic rocks. Through detailed scanning electron microscope (SEM) and electron microprobe (EMP) work, arsenic minerals are identified in the cavities of the Tertiary volcanic tuff from the northeast part of the Tabalaopa Basin, city of Chihuahua. Arsenic minerals, the As–Sr–Al phase (a possible arsenogoyazite–arsenoflorencite group mineral) crystallized in the vesicles of the tuff and the As–Y bearing phase included in biotite, prevail in the studied Tertiary volcanic outcrops. Based on the current study, the arsenic anomaly in the Tabalaopa–Aldama aquifer corresponds to these arsenic phases in the Tertiary volcanic rocks.
Job-Seeking Anxiety and Job Preparation Behavior of Undergraduate Students
Authors: Kim Jeoungmi , Oh Jina , Rajaguru Vasuki
Published: February 2022

This study attempted to examine and compare the job-seeking anxiety and job preparation behavior of undergraduate students. A descriptive cross-sectional study was employed; the study participants were 360 students (3rd and 4th grade), selected from K’ university in G city. Data were collected by structured self-reported questionnaires from November 2020 to February 2021. Variables included general characteristics, job-seeking anxiety and job preparation behavior and were analyzed by descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression analysis by using the SPSS/WIN 25.0 program. Of the total population, 70.8% were female in the health and social science group, the age group was 22–24 years (55.2%; 50.2%) and were fourth grade 62%; 59.1%). The level of job-seeking anxiety of students showed a higher proportion in health science (4.45 ± 0.81) than social science (3.73 ± 0.55). The level of job preparation behavior also revealed the same results in health science (4.28 ± 0.76) and social science (4.06 ± 0.81). Job anxiety showed a positive correlation with employment anxiety induction situation (r = 0.32, p < 0.01) and employment anxiety induction causes (r = 0.27, p < 0.01), and social science students showed a positive correlation with employment anxiety induction situation (r = 0.24, p < 0.01) and employment anxiety induction causes (r = 0.23, p < 0.01). The factors of age, gender and desired job position are highly associated with job-seeking anxiety and job preparation behavior. The findings of this study revealed job-seeking anxiety was higher among the undergraduate students and showed a high level of job preparation behavior. There is a need to develop intervention strategies for promoting job preparation behavior and reducing job-seeking anxiety among undergraduate students by providing career planning to improve the positive attitude towards desired job selection.
From Conventional Disinfection to Antibiotic Resistance Control—Status of the Use of Chlorine and UV Irradiation during Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Umar Muhammad
Published: February 2022

Extensive use of antibiotics for humans and livestock has led to an enhanced level of antibiotic resistance in the environment. Municipal wastewater treatment plants are regarded as one of the main sources of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the aquatic environment. A significant amount of research has been carried out to understand the microbiological quality of wastewater with respect to its antibiotic resistance potential over the past several years. UV disinfection has primarily been used to achieve disinfection, including damaging DNA, but there has been an increasing use of chlorine and H2O2-based AOPs for targeting genes, including ARGs, considering the higher energy demands related to the greater UV fluences needed to achieve efficient DNA damage. This review focuses on some of the most investigated processes, including UV photolysis and chlorine in both individual and combined approaches and UV advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) using H2O2. Since these approaches have practical disinfection and wastewater treatment applications globally, the processes are reviewed from the perspective of extending their scope to DNA damage/ARG inactivation in full-scale wastewater treatment. The fate of ARGs during existing wastewater treatment processes and how it changes with existing treatment processes is reviewed with a view to highlighting the research needs in relation to selected processes for addressing future disinfection challenges.
The Impact of Protective Gloves on Manual Dexterity in Cold Environments—A Pilot Study
Authors: Orysiak Joanna , Młynarczyk Magdalena , Irzmańska Emilia
Published: February 2022

Our research aimed to determine the impact of two types of protective gloves. The research tested the glove performance on men exposed to a range of temperatures reflecting the working conditions in fruit and vegetable processing. The gloves were assessed for performance within the time required to complete a specific manual task and for performance relative to the subjective thermal sensations in the male subjects. Six males participated in a total of 3 study variants: at +5 °C (with double gloves and single glove), at −1 °C (with double gloves and single glove) and in reference conditions +20 °C (without gloves), in which they performed manual tasks. The measurement of manual task performance time was used to assess manual dexterity. Subjective thermal sensations were determined. Differences in the time required to complete specific tasks were observed between the variants with gloves (both at a temperature of +5 °C and −1 °C), and without gloves (p < 0.05). The type of protective gloves had an impact on the time needed to complete manual tasks and therefore may affect manual dexterity.
Validity and Reliability of the Hungarian Version of Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire
Authors: Kiss Gabriella , Szabó Dorottya , Tékus Eva , Jancsó Gábor , Arató Endre , Makai Alexandra , Járomi Melinda , Mintál Tibor
Published: February 2022

Purpose: The aim of our study was to translate the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire (AVVQ) into Hungarian, and to investigate the validity and reliability of the Hungarian AVVQ, as well as to assess the health-related quality of life in patients with varicose veins of the leg. Methods: 374 adults participated in this study who were divided into two groups (varicose vein, healthy). We analyzed internal consistency, convergent validity (using the 36-Item Short Form Survey, SF-36), repeatability, and intra-class correlation coefficient of the Hungarian AVVQ. Regarding discriminant validity, we determined the scores of the Hungarian AVVQ in both groups using the Mann-Whitney U-test. Results: The Cronbach-alpha value was 0.890, while the correlation coefficient was R = 1.000. According to the results of the convergent validation, the scores of pain and dysfunction moderately correlated with some scores of the SF-36. The score of cosmetic appearance had a relationship with many scores of the SF-36. We registered a significant relationship between the score of extent of varicosity and some scores of the SF-36. There was significant correlation between the score of complications and numerous scores of the SF-36 (physical functioning, role limitations due to physical health, pain and general health). The score of pain and dysfunction, cosmetic appearance, extent of varicosity, complications and total score of the Hungarian AVVQ showed a significant difference between both groups. Conclusions: The Hungarian AVVQ was a reliable and a valid tool to assess the health-related quality of life among patients with varicose veins and was a useful tool to justify the further treatment of the patients.
Moderators and Other Predictors of Methylphenidate Response in Children and Adolescents with ADHD
Authors: D’Aiello Barbara , Di Vara Silvia , De Rossi Pietro , Pretelli Italo , Vicari Stefano , Menghini Deny
Published: February 2022

Methylphenidate (MPH) is the treatment of first choice for developmental ADHD. To date, no reliable method to predict how patients will respond to MPH exists and conflicting results are reported on clinical characteristics of responders. The present study aims to give a more precise characterization of the patients who will respond best to MPH to help clinicians in defining the treatment plan. Age, neuropsychological functioning (i.e., attention and working memory), and behavioral/emotional symptoms of 48 drug-naïve children and adolescents with ADHD (42 boys and 6 girls, age-range 6–16 years, mean age 10.5 ± 2.5 years, mean IQ 101.3 ± 11.2) were studied to assess how these different characteristics affected a single-dose MPH response. Four hierarchical linear regression models were used to explore whether age, neuropsychological measures at baseline, and behavioral/emotional symptoms could predict attention and working memory measures after a single-dose MPH administration. We found that improvement in attention and working memory was predicted by age, neuropsychological measures at baseline, and severity of ADHD symptoms. No behavioral and emotional symptoms predicted single-dose MPH response with the exception of conduct symptoms.
Using a Loneliness Measure to Screen for Risk of Mental Health Problems: A Replication in Two Nationally Representative Cohorts
Authors: Matthews Timothy , Bryan Bridget T. , Danese Andrea , Meehan Alan J. , Poulton Richie , Arseneault Louise
Published: February 2022

Background: Loneliness co-occurs alongside many mental health problems and is associated with poorer treatment outcomes. It could therefore be a phenomenon of interest to clinicians as an indicator of generalised risk for psychopathology. The present study tested whether a short measure of loneliness can accurately classify individuals who are at increased risk of common mental health problems. Methods: Data were drawn from two nationally representative cohorts: the age-18 wave of the UK-based Environmental Risk (E-Risk) Longitudinal Twin Study and the age-38 wave of the New Zealand-based Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study. In both cohorts, loneliness was assessed using the three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale, plus two stand-alone items about feeling alone and feeling lonely. Outcome measures consisted of diagnoses of depression and anxiety and self-reports of self-harm/suicide attempts, assessed via a structured interview. Results: ROC curve analysis showed that the Loneliness Scale had fair accuracy in classifying individuals meeting criteria for all three outcomes, with a cut-off score of 5 (on a scale from 3 to 9) having the strongest empirical support. Both of the stand-alone items showed modest sensitivity and specificity but were more limited in their flexibility. The findings were replicated across the two cohorts, indicating that they are applicable both to younger and older adults. In addition, the accuracy of the loneliness scale in detecting mental health problems was comparable to a measure of poor sleep quality, a phenomenon which is often included in screening tools for depression and anxiety. Conclusions: These findings indicate that a loneliness measure could have utility in mental health screening contexts, as well as in research.
COVID-19: Regional Differences in Austria
Authors: Moshammer Hanns , Poteser Michael , Weitensfelder Lisbeth
Published: February 2022

In the turbulent year 2020, overshadowed by the global COVID-19 pandemic, Austria experienced multiple waves of increased case incidence. While governmental measures to curb the numbers were based on current knowledge of infection risk factors, a retrospective analysis of incidence and lethality at the district level revealed correlations of relative infection risk with socioeconomic, geographical, and behavioral population parameters. We identified unexpected correlations between political orientation and smoking behavior and COVID-19 infection risk and/or mortality. For example, a decrease in daily smokers by 2.3 percentage points would be associated with an increase in cumulative incidence by 10% in the adjusted model, and an increase in voters of the right-wing populist party by 1.6 percentage points with an increase in cumulative mortality by 10%. While these parameters are apparently only single elements of complex causal chains that finally lead to individual susceptibility and vulnerability levels, our findings might have identified ecological parameters that can be utilized to develop fine-tuned communications and measures in upcoming challenges of this and other pandemics.
Personality Traits, Strategies of Coping with Stress and Psychophysical Wellbeing of Surgical and Non-Surgical Doctors in Poland
Authors: Marcisz-Dyla Ewa , Dąbek Józefa , Irzyniec Tomasz , Marcisz Czesław
Published: February 2022

The aim of the study was to determine the personality traits, strategies of coping with stress and psychophysical wellbeing of surgical and non-surgical Polish doctors. The study used the following questionnaires and scales: the Resiliency Assessment Scale, the Type D Personality Scale, the Framingham Type A Scale, the Mini COPE—Coping Inventory and the Wellbeing Scale. Doctors performing surgical specialties were characterized by a significantly higher level of resilience components, a more frequent occurrence of the type B behaviour pattern and less frequent type D personality than doctors performing non-surgical specializations. The Mini COPE point values were comparable between surgical and non-surgical physicians. The sense of psychological wellbeing was higher in surgical specialists. The higher the values of the Optimistic approach to life and the ability to mobilize oneself in difficult situations, the lower the values of the Turning to religion domain and the higher the values of the Denial domain correlated with the performance of surgical specialization. Men performing surgical specializations were more often optimistic and inclined to consume alcohol, while women with non-surgical specialization more often coped with stress by turning to religion. We conclude that the personality traits of Polish doctors vary depending on their specialization. Physicians’ coping strategies do not differ depending on their specialization. The sense of mental wellbeing is higher in surgical specialists compared to non-surgical specialists. An optimistic approach to life and the ability to mobilize oneself in difficult situations, as well as coping with stress by denial are associated with the surgical specialization. Men performing surgical specialties more often declare optimism and a tendency to cope with stress by consuming alcohol or psychoactive substances, while women who perform non-surgical specializations more often cope with stress by turning to religion. Psychological screening tests and appropriate training, taking into account medical specialization, could be one way of improving resilience and coping with stress among doctors.
Risk Prescriptions of Strong Opioids in the Treatment of Chronic Non-Cancer Pain by Primary Care Physicians in Catalonia: Opicat Padris Project
Authors: Perelló-Bratescu Aina , Dürsteler Christian , Álvarez-Carrera Maria Asunción , Granés Laura , Kostov Belchin , Sisó-Almirall Antoni
Published: February 2022

The prescription of strong opioids (SO) for chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) is steadily increasing. This entails a high risk of adverse effects, a risk that increases with the concomitant prescription of SO with central nervous system depressant drugs and with the use of SO for non-recommended indications. In order to examine this concomitant risk prescription, we designed a descriptive, longitudinal, retrospective population-based study. Patients aged ≥15 years with a continued SO prescription for ≥3 months during 2013–2017 for CNCP were included. Of these, patients who had received concomitant prescriptions of SO and risk drugs (gabapentinoids, benzodiazepines and antidepressants) and those who had received immediate-release fentanyl (IRF) were selected. The study included 22,691 patients; 20,354 (89.7%) patients received concomitant risk prescriptions. Men and subjects with a higher socioeconomic status received fewer concomitant risk prescriptions. Benzodiazepines or Z-drugs were prescribed concomitantly with SO in 15,883 (70%) patients, antidepressants in 14,932 (65%) and gabapentinoids in 11,267 (49%), while 483 (21.32%) patients received IRF (2266 prescriptions in total) without a baseline SO. In conclusion, our study shows that a high percentage of patients prescribed SO for CNCP received concomitant prescriptions with known risks, as well as IRF for unauthorized indications.
Caregiving and Caregiver Health 1 Year into the COVID-19 Pandemic (CUIDAR-SE Study): A Gender Analysis
Authors: Del Río-Lozano María , García-Calvente Mar , Elizalde-Sagardia Belén , Maroto-Navarro Gracia
Published: February 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of informal care and shown that women continue to shoulder the brunt of responsibilities in this area. In this study, we analyzed differences in caregiving and self-perceived health in a group of informal male and female caregivers 1 year into the COVID-19 pandemic. We performed a cross-sectional survey of 261 informal caregivers (165 women and 96 men) in two regions of Spain using computer-assisted telephone interviewing between February and April 2021. We performed descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses to calculate the odds of poor self-perceived health according to different caregiver, care recipient, and caregiving characteristics. We also analyzed the perceived effects of the pandemic on caregiving, caregiver health, and other aspects of life. Compared with male caregivers, female caregivers were more likely to experience increases in caregiving intensity and burden and a decline in self-perceived health as a result of the pandemic. Men providing high-intensity care, however, also reported deteriorated health. Men experienced fewer reductions in informal support, a factor that exerted a protective health effect. Women, by contrast, experienced a reduction in all support systems and in this case, a third-level education exerted a protective effect. Our results provide key insights that should be taken into account to design gender-based interventions aimed at supporting already stretched and burdened caregivers. A greater sharing of responsibilities and more resources are needed.
Willingness to Receive the COVID-19 Vaccination and the Psychological State of Japanese University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tsutsumi Shogo , Maeda Noriaki , Tashiro Tsubasa , Arima Satoshi , Mizuta Rami , Fukui Kazuki , Naito Koichi , Komiya Makoto , Urabe Yukio
Published: February 2022

Vaccinations may be one of the solutions to end the COVID-19 pandemic. One’s psychological state may be strongly related to one’s willingness to be vaccinated. This study investigated the relationship between the psychological state of Japanese university students and their willingness to be vaccinated. A self-report questionnaire on COVID-19, its vaccines (vaccination status, and perceived efficacy and safety), and psychological state (anxiety and depressive mood) was administered online, and 560 valid responses were obtained. The unvaccinated group reported significantly lower perceived vaccine effectiveness and importance than the vaccinated group. However, there were no differences in anxiety and depressive mood symptoms between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed on the unvaccinated participants to identify the factors associated with their unwillingness to be vaccinated; there was a significant association between anxiety and unwillingness to receive the vaccine (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant association between depressive mood and unwillingness to receive the vaccine. The results suggest that timely psychological support for Japanese university students experiencing high levels of anxiety is important in accelerating vaccination programs.
Fear of Infection and Depressive Symptoms among German University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results of COVID-19 International Student Well-Being Study
Authors: Spatafora Franca , Matos Fialho Paula M. , Busse Heide , Helmer Stefanie M. , Zeeb Hajo , Stock Christiane , Wendt Claus , Pischke Claudia R.
Published: February 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has a significant psychological impact at the population level and fear of infection is one of the stressors involved. The study aimed to examine fear of infection and associations with university students’ depressive symptoms, substance use, and social contacts during the COVID-19 outbreak in Germany in May 2020. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted at four German universities (n = 5.021, 69% female, mean age: 24 years) as part of the COVID-19 International Student Well-being Study. Fear of infection was assessed using self-generated items, depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center of Epidemiologic Studies Scale (CES-D-8). Associations between fear of infection and depressive symptoms were analyzed with linear regressions, controlling for sociodemographic variables. A total of 34% of the participants reported feeling worried about getting infected themselves, 75% were worried about someone from their personal network getting infected, and 78% feared that individuals close to them would get severely ill after infection. Sixteen percent of the variance of depressive symptoms could be explained by fear of infection (p ≤ 0.001). Students’ fear of infection should be considered in student communication and counseling to prevent worsening of mental health in this population.
Relationship of Quantitative Measures of Jumping Performance with Gross Motor Development in Typically Developed Preschool Children
Authors: Wang Jing-Ling , Sun Shih-Hen , Lin Hsiu-Chen
Published: February 2022

Jumping is a key movement developing in the preschool period, but limited studies have reported the determinants of jumping performance and its relationship with gross motor development. This study aimed to determine the correlations among jumping performance, quantitative parameters of jumping, and gross motor development in preschool children. Twenty-one preschool children were recruited from one kindergarten, and fifteen of them with complete data were further analyzed. The quantitative parameters of standing long jump (SLJ) and standing vertical jump (SVJ) were measured using a video-based motion capture system. The gross motor development was measured using the Preschooler Gross Motor Quality Scale (PGMQ). The Spearman’s rho value and a linear regression model were used to determine the relationships among the jumping performance, the quantitative measures, and the total PGMQ scores. The results indicate that the jumping performances were significantly correlated with the takeoff velocity, which was predicted by trunk inclination before takeoff in SLJ and by the ranges of trunk inclination during jumping in SVJ. Regression analysis showed that the preschool children with higher normalized jump height had better gross motor development, and that the jump performance and the gross motor development were directly or indirectly predicted by the slope of the hip-to-ankle angle plot during pre-takeoff. In conclusion, this study identifies key components of jumping in jumping performance and gross motor development in preschool children for physical education.
Psychological and Physical Intimate Partner Aggression Are Associated with Broad and Specific Internalizing Symptoms during Pregnancy
Authors: Perez Gabriela R. , Stasik-O’Brien Sara M. , Laifer Lauren M. , Brock Rebecca L.
Published: February 2022

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) has serious consequences, particularly during high-risk periods such as pregnancy, which poses a significant risk to maternal mental health. However, it is unclear whether IPV presents a broad risk for psychopathology or is specific to distinct diagnoses or symptom dimensions (e.g., panic, social anxiety). Further, the relative impact of physical versus psychological aggression remains unclear. Methods: One hundred and fifty-nine pregnant couples completed surveys assessing psychological and physical intimate partner aggression unfolding in the couple relationship, as well as a range of internalizing symptoms. Results: Psychological and physical aggression were each associated with broad negative affectivity, which underlies mood and anxiety disorders; however, only psychological aggression demonstrated a unique association. Further, for pregnant women, aggression was uniquely associated with several symptom dimensions characteristic of PTSD. In contrast, men demonstrated a relatively heterogeneous symptom presentation in relation to aggression. Conclusion: The present study identifies unique symptom manifestations associated with IPV for couples navigating pregnancy and suggests psychological aggression can be more detrimental to mental health than physical aggression. To promote maternal perinatal mental health, clinicians should screen for covert forms of psychological aggression during pregnancy (e.g., raised voices, insults), trauma-related distress, and symptom elevations in women and their partners.
“When you talk it out … you will feel like the burden has somehow gone down, you will feel light”: Social Support Received by Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in Western Kenya
Authors: Jadwin-Cakmak Laura , Lauber Kendall , Odhiambo Elijah Ochieng , Collins Ben , Gumbe Edwin , Norwitz Gabriella A. , Aloo Teddy , Lewis Katherine A. , Okutah Felix , Amico K Rivet , Olango Kennedy , Odero Wilson , Graham Susan M. , Harper Gary W.
Published: February 2022

Gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) experience many sexual orientation-related stressors that negatively influence physical and mental health, making it imperative to understand their experiences of resilience-promoting resources such as social support. We utilized qualitative and participatory methodologies to examine sources of social support and types of social support received by GBMSM in Western Kenya through in-depth interviews with 60 GBMSM, including both peer educators and community members. GBMSM received emotional, informational, and instrumental support from six different relationship types: friends and peer groups, family of origin, sexual and romantic partners, healthcare providers, peer educators, and other people including work colleagues and police officers. A key finding from this study is the centrality of sexuality-specific support across all sources and types of support. Implications for clinics and LGBTQ organizations, policy, and future research are discussed.
My Parents Taught…Green Was My Growth! The Role of Intergenerational Transmission of Ecological Values in Young Adults’ Pro-Environmental Behaviors and Their Psychosocial Mechanisms
Authors: Scopelliti Massimiliano , Barni Daniela , Rinallo Elena
Published: February 2022

Past research on pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs) has identified several psychosocial determinants, ranging from personal values to attitudes—mostly environmental concerns—and norms. Less attention has been devoted to the role of affect and identity processes, until recently, when investigations began into the emotional connections with nature and environmental identity, i.e., one’s self-concept in relation to the natural world. Finally, research into the parent–child transmission of ecological values was recently developed. We aimed to analyze the role of the above-mentioned variables in predicting different PEBs, within a comprehensive framework. We hypothesized a chain relationship between the ecological values of parents and mothers, the ecological values of their children, environmental concerns, affect towards nature, environmental identity, and PEBs, as the final outcomes. In a cross-sectional exploratory study, an online questionnaire was administered to 175 young Italian adults. Validated scales to measure the above variables and socio-demographics were included. The results showed a different pattern of predictors for each PEB. Overall, the importance of the emotional connection with nature and environmental identity in predicting PEBs has clearly emerged. Finally, the role of intergenerational transmission of ecological values in PEBs, with differences between the influence of fathers and mothers, is outlined. The study provides a more integrative view of PEBs by considering the variety of human processes. Theoretical and practical implications of results are discussed.
Improving Household Safety via a Dynamic Air Terminal Device in Order to Decrease Carbon Monoxide Migration from a Gas Furnace
Authors: Szczepanik-Scislo Nina
Published: February 2022

The airtightness of buildings is continuing to grow and impact the indoor environment. Its aim is to conserve energy, but this may influence the indoor air quality and increase contaminant accumulation by limiting the amount of fresh air that infiltrates the building. The goal of this study was to quantify how the contaminants from a faulty gas furnace in a household could impact the occupants. The gas furnace was located in an attached garage and leaked carbon monoxide (CO). Multizone and CFD simulations were caried out to determine if an air terminal device (ATD) with a changing geometry could improve the air quality. The goal of the ATD was to maintain a steady air throw in the garage, while the air flow in the ventilation system would change. A steady air throw should help to remove the carbon monoxide generated from the furnace and prevent infiltration into the household. The results show that with the use of the new ATD, it was possible to maintain a steady air throw and the infiltration of CO was lowered.
Applying the Moving Epidemic Method to Establish the Influenza Epidemic Thresholds and Intensity Levels for Age-Specific Groups in Hubei Province, China
Authors: Jiang Yuan , Tong Ye-qing , Fang Bin , Zhang Wen-kang , Yu Xue-jie
Published: February 2022

Background: School-aged children were reported to act as the main transmitter during influenza epidemic seasons. It is vital to set up an early detection method to help with the vaccination program in such a high-risk population. However, most relative studies only focused on the general population. Our study aims to describe the influenza epidemiology characteristics in Hubei Province and to introduce the moving epidemic method to establish the epidemic thresholds for age-specific groups. Methods: We divided the whole population into pre-school, school-aged and adult groups. The virology data from 2010/2011 to 2017/2018 were applied to the moving epidemic method to establish the epidemic thresholds for the general population and age-specific groups for the detection of influenza in 2018/2019. The performances of the model were compared by the cross-validation process. Results: The epidemic threshold for school-aged children in the 2018/2019 season was 15.42%. The epidemic thresholds for influenza A virus subtypes H1N1 and H3N2 and influenza B were determined as 5.68%, 6.12% and 10.48%, respectively. The median start weeks of the school-aged children were similar to the general population. The cross-validation process showed that the sensitivity of the model established with school-aged children was higher than those established with the other age groups in total influenza, H1N1 and influenza B, while it was only lower than the general population group in H3N2. Conclusions: This study proved the feasibility of applying the moving epidemic method in Hubei Province. Additional influenza surveillance and vaccination strategies should be well-organized for school-aged children to reduce the disease burden of influenza in China.
Regional Odontodysplasia: A Systematic Review of Case Reports
Authors: Nijakowski Kacper , Woś Patryk , Surdacka Anna
Published: February 2022

Regional odontodysplasia is a rare developmental disorder characterised by hypoplasia and hypomineralisation of enamel and dentin. Our systematic review aimed to organise the knowledge on localisation, symptomatology and treatment methods in patients with regional odontodysplasia based on case reports published in the databases PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. Case reports were described in 28 different countries, considering 180 patients (including 91 females). Regional odontodysplasia occurs mainly in both deciduous and permanent dentition (66.1%). The affected teeth were observed more frequently in the maxilla (70.0%), especially on the left side (45.6%). The most common reported symptoms were ghost teeth, poorly developed buds, yellowish-brown colour of crowns and delayed eruption of permanent teeth in affected quadrants. The most popular treatment method was surgical treatment (78.6%) with subsequent prosthetic therapy (34.6%). Based on the review of cases, pathognomonic clinical and radiological signs can be found, however, it is difficult to reach a consensus on the choice of treatment method.
One-Year Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown-Related Factors on Cardiovascular Risk and Mental Health: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Bérard Emilie , Huo Yung Kai Samantha , Coley Nicola , Bongard Vanina , Ferrières Jean
Published: February 2022

Lockdown measures have obvious psychological impacts, which could, in turn, increase cardiovascular risk. We assessed the association between lockdown-related factors and the worsening of cardiovascular risk, incident anxiety and depression during 12 months’ follow-up. During lockdown (April–May 2020), 534 subjects, aged 50–89 years, were included in the PSYCOV-CV study (NCT04397835) and followed for up to 12 months post-lockdown. We found that participants with symptoms of depression during lockdown were more likely to report increased cardiovascular drug treatment (Odds-Ratio (OR) = 5.08 (1.78–14.5), p = 0.002), decreased physical activity (OR = 1.76 (1.10–2.82), p = 0.019) and weight gain (OR = 1.85 (1.08–3.17), p = 0.024) after lockdown. Moreover, changes in sleep patterns (OR = 2.35 (1.13–4.88), p = 0.022) or living in a rural area during lockdown (OR = 1.70 (0.96–3.03, p = 0.069) were associated with higher incident depression, whereas a better relationship with one’s partner during lockdown was associated with less incident depression (OR = 0.56 (0.29–1.08), p = 0.084). Finally, we found that continuing to work during lockdown in a role requiring in-person contact with the public (such as cashiers, nurses or physicians) was associated with more incident anxiety after lockdown (OR = 3.38 (1.12–10.2), p = 0.031). Interestingly, decreased consumption of alcohol during lockdown was associated with less incident anxiety (OR = 0.30 (0.10–0.90), p = 0.032). Our study, conducted in a representative sample of an age group at increased risk of both cardiovascular disease and severe COVID-19, increases the understanding of modifiable factors associated with the health impacts of lockdown measures.
Football and Zumba Training in Female Hospital Staff: Effects after 12 and 40 Weeks on Self-Reported Health Status, Emotional Wellbeing, General Self-Efficacy and Sleep Problems
Authors: Barene Svein , Krustrup Peter
Published: February 2022

Background: This 40-weeks intervention study evaluates the effects on self-reported health status, emotional wellbeing, general self-efficacy and sleep problems among female hospital employees. Methods: 107 employees were cluster-randomized into three groups; football (FG), Zumba (ZG) and control (CG). Outcome measurements were conducted at baseline, 12 and 40 weeks. Weekly training frequencies in the first 12 and next 28 weeks were 2.4 ± 0.3 and 0.8 ± 0.2 in FG and 2.3 ± 0.3 and 0.9 ± 0.2 in ZG. Results: Compared to the CG, the ZG showed significant improvement in self-reported health status (p = 0.025), a reduced frequency of poor and restless sleep (on a 0–4 scale) (p = 0.004), as well as a tendency for reduction in the frequency of problems falling asleep (p = 0.055) and overall sleep problems (p = 0.051). Between baseline and 12 weeks, both the FG (p = 0.017) and the ZG (p = 0.017) showed within-group improvements in emotional wellbeing, whereas this improvement was maintained only in the ZG between baseline and 40 weeks (p = 0.002). The FG showed a significant within-group improvement in general self-efficacy (p = 0.012) between baseline and 12 weeks follow-up, with no such improvements in the other groups. Conclusion: The present findings revealed that a physical activity intervention with Zumba as well as football training may improve mental health and sleep outcomes in female hospital staff.