bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Load Forecasting Approach Based on Smart Meter Data Using Advance Preprocessing and Hybrid Deep Learning
Authors: Ünal Fatih , Almalaq Abdulaziz , Ekici Sami
Published: March 2021

Short-term load forecasting models play a critical role in distribution companies in making effective decisions in their planning and scheduling for production and load balancing. Unlike aggregated load forecasting at the distribution level or substations, forecasting load profiles of many end-users at the customer-level, thanks to smart meters, is a complicated problem due to the high variability and uncertainty of load consumptions as well as customer privacy issues. In terms of customers’ short-term load forecasting, these models include a high level of nonlinearity between input data and output predictions, demanding more robustness, higher prediction accuracy, and generalizability. In this paper, we develop an advanced preprocessing technique coupled with a hybrid sequential learning-based energy forecasting model that employs a convolution neural network (CNN) and bidirectional long short-term memory (BLSTM) within a unified framework for accurate energy consumption prediction. The energy consumption outliers and feature clustering are extracted at the advanced preprocessing stage. The novel hybrid deep learning approach based on data features coding and decoding is implemented in the prediction stage. The proposed approach is tested and validated using real-world datasets in Turkey, and the results outperformed the traditional prediction models compared in this paper.
Multi-Criteria Parametric Verifications for Stability Diagnosis of Rammed-Earth Historic Urban Ramparts Working as Retaining Walls
Authors: Serrano-Chacón Álvaro R. , Mascort-Albea Emilio J. , Canivell Jacinto , Romero-Hernández Rocío , Jaramillo-Morilla Antonio
Published: March 2021

Institutions such as ICOFORT (International committee on fortifications and military heritage) encourages the development of diagnosis strategies for the conservation and maintenance of historic earthen walls as highly necessary. Thus, it is important to be aware of the conditions in urban contexts, where the deterioration can be more aggressive and the risk of damage increases. Despite this, there are many strategies of constructive diagnosis for these kinds of monuments, but not many of them are concerned with the structural assessment of situations in which the ramparts work as a retaining wall in an unforeseen way. The medieval ramparts of Seville (Spain) are shown as a completely representative case study of the above-mentioned situation. In the research sector, the monument resists the lateral earth pressure developed by the new difference in height at both sides of the wall. Based on the limited states principle and on different international codes formulation, a tool was programmed to carry out automatic calculations to verify the case study’s overall stability conditions using standard sections. The obtained results were based on the overturning, bearing, and sliding overdesign factors (ODF) and determined a stable situation that could be at risk because of changes in the surrounding such as, excavations or the movements of the ground water table, or seismic events. Thus, the need and usefulness of strategies and control instruments that should be integrated into heritage intervention projects have been proved.
Allelic Expression Imbalance Analysis Identified YAP1 Amplification in p53- Dependent Osteosarcoma
Authors: Niu Guanglin , Bak Agnieszka , Nusselt Melanie , Zhang Yue , Pausch Hubert , Flisikowska Tatiana , Schnieke Angelika E. , Flisikowski Krzysztof
Published: March 2021

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary bone malignancy that mainly occurs during adolescent growth, suggesting that bone growth plays an important role in the aetiology of the disease. Genetic factors, such as heritable mutations of Rb1 and TP53, are associated with an increased risk of OS. Identifying driver mutations for OS has been challenging due to the complexity of bone growth-related pathways and the extensive intra-tumoral heterogeneity of this cancer. We previously generated pigs carrying a mutated TP53 gene, which develop OS at high frequency. RNA sequencing and allele expression imbalance (AEI) analysis of OS and matched healthy control samples revealed a highly significant AEI (p = 2.14 × 10−39) for SNPs in the BIRC3-YAP1 locus on pig chromosome 9. Analysis of copy number variation showed that YAP1 amplification is associated with the AEI and the progression of OS. Accordingly, the inactivation of YAP1 inhibits proliferation, migration, and invasion, and leads to the silencing of TP63 and reconstruction of p16 expression in p53-deficient porcine OS cells. Increased p16 mRNA expression correlated with lower methylation of its promoter. Altogether, our study provides molecular evidence for the role of YAP1 amplification in the progression of p53-dependent OS.
Non-Coding RNAs in Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy: Focus on Lung Cancer
Authors: Le Patricia , Romano Giulia , Nana-Sinkam Patrick , Acunzo Mario
Published: March 2021

Over the last several decades, clinical evaluation and treatment of lung cancers have largely improved with the classification of genetic drivers of the disease, such as EGFR, ALK, and ROS1. There are numerous regulatory factors that exert cellular control over key oncogenic pathways involved in lung cancers. In particular, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have a diversity of regulatory roles in lung cancers such that they have been shown to be involved in inducing proliferation, suppressing apoptotic pathways, increasing metastatic potential of cancer cells, and acquiring drug resistance. The dysregulation of various ncRNAs in human cancers has prompted preclinical studies examining the therapeutic potential of restoring and/or inhibiting these ncRNAs. Furthermore, ncRNAs demonstrate tissue-specific expression in addition to high stability within biological fluids. This makes them excellent candidates as cancer biomarkers. This review aims to discuss the relevance of ncRNAs in cancer pathology, diagnosis, and therapy, with a focus on lung cancer.
Automatic Detection of the Circulating Cell-Free Methylated DNA Pattern of GCM2, ITPRIPL1 and CCDC181 for Detection of Early Breast Cancer and Surgical Treatment Response
Authors: Wang Sheng-Chao , Liao Li-Min , Ansar Muhamad , Lin Shih-Yun , Hsu Wei-Wen , Su Chih-Ming , Chung Yu-Mei , Liu Cai-Cing , Hung Chin-Sheng , Lin Ruo-Kai
Published: March 2021

The early detection of cancer can reduce cancer-related mortality. There is no clinically useful noninvasive biomarker for early detection of breast cancer. The aim of this study was to develop accurate and precise early detection biomarkers and a dynamic monitoring system following treatment. We analyzed a genome-wide methylation array in Taiwanese and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) breast cancer (BC) patients. Most breast cancer-specific circulating methylated CCDC181, GCM2 and ITPRIPL1 biomarkers were found in the plasma. An automatic analysis process of methylated ccfDNA was established. A combined analysis of CCDC181, GCM2 and ITPRIPL1 (CGIm) was performed in R using Recursive Partitioning and Regression Trees to establish a new prediction model. Combined analysis of CCDC181, GCM2 and ITPRIPL1 (CGIm) was found to have a sensitivity level of 97% and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.955 in the training set, and a sensitivity level of 100% and an AUC of 0.961 in the test set. The circulating methylated CCDC181, GCM2 and ITPRIPL1 was also significantly decreased after surgery (all p < 0.001). The aberrant methylation patterns of the CCDC181, GCM2 and ITPRIPL1 genes means that they are potential biomarkers for the detection of early BC and can be combined with breast imaging data to achieve higher accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, facilitating breast cancer detection. They may also be applied to monitor the surgical treatment response.
Enhanced Activity of Titanocene Complex for Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Fijalkowski Karol J.
Published: March 2021

Enhanced titanocene (Cp2TiCl2) based electrocatalytic system for nitrogen reduction was shown, comprising glassy carbon electrode, high level of the catechol redox mediator, optimized binary THF/MeOH solvent and unique design of the reactor having ammonia permeable membrane at the outlet, which allowed constant nitrogen flow through the working solution during entire electrolysis without risk of evaporation of the solvent. Catalytic activity was observed in the potential range of (−1.5)–(−2.3) V, reaching TON of 2.83%, corresponding to the production of 0.566 μmol NH3 (9.64 μg) in 24 h hydrolysis at −2.3 V using 0.02 mmol TiCp2Cl2 (5 mg).
Sputter-Deposited Ag Nanoparticles on Electrospun PCL Scaffolds: Morphology, Wettability and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Valerini Daniele , Tammaro Loredana , Vitali Roberta , Guillot Gloria , Rinaldi Antonio
Published: March 2021

Porous scaffolds made of biocompatible and environmental-friendly polymer fibers with diameters in the nano/micro range can find applications in a wide variety of sectors, spanning from the biomedical field to textiles and so on. Their development has received a boost in the last decades thanks to advances in the production methods, such as the electrospinning technique. Conferring antimicrobial properties to these fibrous structures is a primary requirement for many of their applications, but the addition of antimicrobial agents by wet methods can present a series of drawbacks. In this work, strong antibacterial action is successfully provided to electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds by silver (Ag) addition through a simple and flexible way, namely the sputtering deposition of silver onto the PCL fibers. SEM-EDS analyses demonstrate that the polymer fibers get coated by Ag nanoparticles without undergoing any alteration of their morphological integrity upon the deposition process. The influence on wettability is evaluated with polar (water) and non-polar (diiodomethane) liquids, evidencing that this coating method allows preserving the hydrophobic character of the PCL polymer. Excellent antibacterial action (reduction > 99.995% in 4 h) is demonstrated against Escherichia coli. The easy fabrication of these PCL-Ag mats can be applicable to the production of biomedical devices, bioremediation and antifouling systems in filtration, personal protective equipment (PPE), food packaging materials, etc.
Smart Microgrid Energy Market: Evaluating Distributed Ledger Technologies for Remote and Constrained Microgrid Deployments
Authors: Ledwaba Lehlogonolo P. I. , Hancke Gerhard P. , Isaac Sherrin J. , Venter Hein S.
Published: March 2021

The increasing strain on ageing generation infrastructure has seen more frequent instances of scheduled and unscheduled blackouts, rising reliability on fossil fuel based energy alternatives and a slow down in efforts towards achieving universal access to electrical energy in South Africa. To try and relieve the burden on the National Grid and still progress electrification activities, the smart microgrid model and secure energy trade paradigm is considered—enabled by the Industrial IoT (IIoT) and distributed ledger technologies (DLTs). Given the high availability requirements of microgrid operations, the limited resources available on IIoT devices and the high processing and energy requirements of DLT operations, this work aims to determine the effect of native DLT algorithms when implemented on IIoT edge devices to assess the suitability of DLTs as a mechanism to establish a secure, energy trading market for the Internet of Energy. Metrics such as the node transaction time, operating temperature, power consumption, processor and memory usage are considered towards determining possible interference on the edge node operation. In addition, the cost and time required for mining operations associated with the DLT-enabled node are determined in an effort to predict the cost to end users—in terms of fees payable and mobile data costs—as well as predicting the microgrid’s growth and potential blockchain network slowdown.
The Efficiency of Circular Economies: A Comparison of Visegrád Group Countries
Authors: Lacko Roman , Hajduová Zuzana , Zawada Marcin
Published: March 2021

Efficiency of circular economies is one of the most important areas of the improvement of economic growth in a circular way, that is, improving worldwide GDP. The issue of circular economies, namely their efficiency, is a current topic of evidence of many literary sources in the literature. This issue is solved in the conditions of the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia. The goal of the study is to compare the circular efficiency within the Visegrád Group and efficiency of Visegrád Group countries to the European Union 28 average. Data envelopment analysis slack-based models are implemented to evaluate the output efficiencies of the selected subjects. Truncated regression is used to measure the impact of selected indicators on circular efficiency. The Visegrád Group countries are not among the most advanced in terms of recycling and the use of the circular economy, which was confirmed by this research. However, developments suggest significant improvements. The significance of this research lies in several benefits. One of the benefits is the perception of regional differences and the setting of EU cluster policies at the regional level. The idea of changing inputs is very significant since the outputs are oriented to the recycling rates of materials and waste. This research has shown that a higher level of GDP does not necessarily mean a higher level of efficiency of the circular economy.
Roaming Service for Electric Vehicle Charging Using Blockchain-Based Digital Identity
Authors: Ferreira Joao C. , Ferreira da Silva Catarina , Martins Jose P.
Published: March 2021

We present a suitable approach to address the electric vehicle charging roaming problem (e-roaming). Blockchain technologies are applied to support the identity management process of users charging their vehicles and to record energy transactions securely. At the same time, off-chain cloud-based storage is used to record the transaction details. A user wallet settled on a mobile application stores user verified credentials; a backend application in the vehicle charging station validates the user credentials to authorize the energy transaction. The current model can be applied to similar contexts where the user may be required to keep several credentials from different providers to authenticate digital transactions.
A Laboratory Study on the Shear Strength Behavior of Two Till Deposits from Northern Germany
Authors: Hailemariam Henok , Wuttke Frank
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the findings of a laboratory study of the shear strength and yielding behavior of two glacial till soil deposits from the area of Heiligenhafen, northern Germany. The tests were conducted on reconstituted forms of the soils using a triaxial cell capable of controlling the temperature of the specimens. The experimental program included a series of multi-stage consolidated drained (CD) compression triaxial tests at temperature ranges between 20 and 60 °C. For the temperature range considered in this study, a mild reduction in the effective friction angle of the two till soils of less than 1° was observed due to an increase in temperature from 20 to 60 °C. All the results were carefully assessed in view of the intrinsic soil behavior and fabric, and existing trends are highlighted. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the shearing properties of till deposits, and can contribute to the enhancement of existing soil constitutive models as well as the development of new models that are particularly suited to the behavior of glacial tills under elevated temperatures.
Per-Phase and 3-Phase Optimal Coordination of Directional Overcurrent Relays Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Matthews Ronald C. , Patel Trupal R. , Summers Adam K. , Reno Matthew J. , Hossain-McKenzie Shamina
Published: March 2021

Penetration of the power grid by renewable energy sources, distributed storage, and distributed generators is becoming increasingly common. Increased utilization of these distributed energy resources (DERs) has given rise to additional protection coordination concerns, particularly where they are utilized in an unbalanced manner or where loading among phases is unbalanced. Digital relays such as the SEL-751 (produced by Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Pullman, WA, USA) series have the capability of being set on a per-phase basis. This capability is underutilized in common practice. Additionally, in optimization algorithms for determining relay settings, the time-overcurrent characteristics (TOCs) of relays are generally not treated as variables and are assigned before running the optimization algorithm. In this paper, TOC options themselves are treated as discrete variables to be considered in the optimization algorithm. A mixed integer nonlinear programming problem (MINLP) is set up where the goal is to minimize relay operating times. A genetic algorithm (GA) approach is implemented in MATLAB where two cases are considered. In the first case, the TOC and Time dial setting (TDS) of each relay is set on a three-phase basis. In the second case, per-phase settings are considered. Relay TDSs and TOCs are both considered as simultaneous discrete control variables. Despite the stochastic nature of using per-phase settings for unbalanced systems is found to generally allow for shorter operating times. However, for relatively balanced systems, it is best to use three-phase settings if computation time is of importance.
Nanopore-Level Wood-Water Interactions—A Molecular Simulation Study
Authors: Shi Jingbo , Avramidis Stavros
Published: March 2021

The nanoscale wood-water interaction strength, accessible sorption sites, and cell wall pore sizes are important factors that drive water sorption and the hysteresis phenomenon in wood. In this work, these factors were quantitatively studied using molecular simulations based on a cell wall pore model, previously developed by the authors. Specifically, the wall-water interaction strength, the sorption sites network including their number, interaction range, strength, and spatial distributions were set at a series of theoretical values as simulation input parameters. The results revealed that most of the investigated parameters significantly affected both sorption isotherms and hysteresis. Water monolayers and clusters were observed on the simulated pore surface when the wood-water interaction and sorption site strength were set at unrealistically high values. Furthermore, multiple linear regression models suggested that wood-water interaction and sorption site parameters were coupled in determining sorption isotherms, but not in determining hysteresis.
Fermented Soy Products: Beneficial Potential in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Jang Chan Ho , Oh Jisun , Lim Ji Sun , Kim Hyo Jung , Kim Jong-Sang
Published: March 2021

Fermented soybean products, such as cheonggukjang (Japanese natto), doenjang (soy paste), ganjang (soy sauce), and douchi, are widely consumed in East Asian countries and are major sources of bioactive compounds. The fermentation of cooked soybean with bacteria (Bacillus spp.) and fungi (Aspergillus spp. and Rhizopus spp.) produces a variety of novel compounds, most of which possess health benefits. This review is focused on the preventive and ameliorative potential of fermented soy foods and their components to manage neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Comprehensive Metabolite Profiling and Microbial Communities of Doenjang (Fermented Soy Paste) and Ganjang (Fermented Soy Sauce): A Comparative Study
Authors: Song Da Hye , Chun Byung Hee , Lee Sunmin , Son Su Young , Reddy Chagam Koteswara , Mun Ha In , Jeon Che Ok , Lee Choong Hwan
Published: March 2021

Doenjang and ganjang are secondary fermented soybean products from meju (primary fermented product) following a complex fermentation process that separates the products into solid (doenjang) and liquid (ganjang) states. We performed a comparative study on gas chromatography mass spectrometry-(GC-MS) and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry-(LC-MS) based metabolite profiling with fungal and bacterial microbial community analysis of doenjang and ganjang during fermentation. Metabolite profiling and microbial community data showed distinct patterns, depending on the fermentation process. The relative levels of metabolic patterns were similar and most of the microorganisms produced halophilic or halotolerant microbes during the fermentation period in doenjang and ganjang. In the doenjang end products, isoflavones, soyasaponins, and amino acids were largely distributed and Debaryomyces and Staphylococcus were dominant, whereas the biogenic amine and phenylpropanoid contents were highly distributed in the ganjang end products, with higher levels of Meyerozyma and Tetragenococcus. Our results demonstrate that the quality of doenjang and ganjang is predominantly influenced by the microbiome and by metabolite changes during fermentation. Moreover, the present study provides a platform for comparing samples in different states.
Comparative Study for the Determination of Fat-Soluble Vitamins in Rice Cereal Baby Foods Using HPLC-DAD and UHPLC-APCI-MS/MS
Authors: Katsa Maria , Papalouka Natalia , Mavrogianni Theodora , Papagiannopoulou Irene , Kostakis Marios , Proestos Charalampos , Thomaidis Nikolaos S.
Published: March 2021

Two liquid chromatographic systems, one coupled to atmospheric pressure chemical ionization and tandem mass spectrometric methods (UHPLC-APCI-MS/MS) and the other a high-performance liquid chromatographic coupled to diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) were used to develop and validate methods for the simultaneous determination of fat-soluble vitamins A, D3 and E in rice cereal baby foods. The chromatographic separation was performed on C18 columns with a mixture of methanol-acetonitrile as mobile phase for all methods. The extraction of fat-soluble vitamins included enzymatic hydrolysis with α-amylase, saponification, extraction with petroleum ether or n-hexane and purification with silica cartridge (only for vitamin D3). Quantification of vitamin D3 and E through UHPLC-APCI-MS/MS was performed by the use of internal standards (IS) D3-d3 and E-d6, respectively, while IS was not used for vitamin A. The methods were optimized and validated in terms of linearity, precision, trueness, limits of detection and quantification. The recoveries were in the range of 85.0–107% for retinol, 92.0–105% for α-tocopherol and 95.2–106% for cholecalciferol and the %RSD (Relative Standard Deviation) values ranged from 6.4% to 15%. The evaluation of the methods was also conducted through the estimation of uncertainties, the application in commercial samples and the participation in a proficiency test
Treatment of Manure and Digestate Liquid Fractions Using Membranes: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Camilleri-Rumbau Maria Salud , Briceño Kelly , Fjerbæk Søtoft Lene , Christensen Knud Villy , Roda-Serrat Maria Cinta , Errico Massimiliano , Norddahl Birgir
Published: March 2021

Manure and digestate liquid fractions are nutrient-rich effluents that can be fractionated and concentrated using membranes. However, these membranes tend to foul due to organic matter, solids, colloids, and inorganic compounds including calcium, ammonium, sodium, sulfur, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium contained in the feed. This review paper is intended as a theoretical and practical tool for the decision-making process during design of membrane-based systems aiming at processing manure liquid fractions. Firstly, this review paper gives an overview of the main physico-chemical characteristics of manure and digestates. Furthermore, solid-liquid separation technologies are described and the complexity of the physico-chemical variables affecting the separation process is discussed. The main factors influencing membrane fouling mechanisms, morphology and characteristics are described, as well as techniques covering membrane inspection and foulant analysis. Secondly, the effects of the feed characteristics, membrane operating conditions (pressure, cross-flow velocity, temperature), pH, flocculation-coagulation and membrane cleaning on fouling and membrane performance are presented. Finally, a summary of techniques for specific recovery of ammonia-nitrogen, phosphorus and removal of heavy metals for farm effluents is also presented.
Nursing Students’ Experiences with Computer Simulation-Based Communication Education
Authors: Lee Ujin , Choi Heeseung , Jeon Yeseul
Published: March 2021

Simulation-based communication education has improved nursing students’ communication knowledge and skills. However, communication patterns that students commonly exhibit in simulated situations and students’ responses to specific clinical situations have not been systematically examined. The specific aims of the present study were (1) to identify non-therapeutic communication patterns that nursing students exhibit in simulated situations in the computer simulation-based education (ComEd) program, and (2) explore students’ responses to challenging clinical situations. This study used a mixed-method research design and a convenience sampling method to recruit participants. Frequency analysis and a conventional content analysis method were used to analyze answers provided by participants. A total of 66 students from four Korean nursing schools participated in the study. “False reassurance” was found to be the most common non-therapeutic communication pattern used by nursing students. Nursing students had difficulty in clinical situations such as reporting a patient’s condition to a doctor, communicating with a patient and perform basic nursing skills at the same time, and managing conflicts between patients. Technology-based communication simulation programs, which reflect various clinical situations, are considered a new alternative that can supplement the limitations of clinical practicum and improve the quality of nursing education.
Travelers’ Attitudes, Behaviors, and Practices on the Prevention of Infectious Diseases: A Study for Non-European Destinations
Authors: Bechini Angela , Zanobini Patrizio , Zanella Beatrice , Ancillotti Leonardo , Moscadelli Andrea , Bonanni Paolo , Boccalini Sara
Published: March 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to improve our comprehension of the attitudes, behaviors, and practices related to the health risks of travel to non-European destinations. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized an online questionnaire disseminated through social networks. Results: About 79% of the respondents reported that they informed themselves or would inform themselves about travel-related health risks before departure. The most used sources of information were the Internet (52%) and health professionals (42%). Older age groups were positively associated with seeking pretravel health information (OR = 2.44, CI 95%: 1.18–5.01, in the age group 25–34 years and OR = 14.6, CI 95%: 1.77–119.50, in subjects over 65 years). Travelers visiting friends and relatives (VFRs) were less likely to seek health information (OR = 0.49; CI 95%: 0.26–0.95). About 13.9% of participants had doubts about the practice of vaccination. Those who sought information on social media had a higher probability of refusing vaccination (OR = 3.24; CI 95%: 1.02–10.19). Conclusions: The data demonstrate that VFRs and the younger population are less informed about travel risks compared with other travelers. This study also revealed the importance that digital information assumes for travelers. Therefore, decisive efforts should be made to ensure that travelers can find correct and reliable information on the Web, particularly on social media.
Assessing the Levels of Awareness among European Citizens about the Direct and Indirect Impacts of Plastics on Human Health
Authors: Barbir Jelena , Leal Filho Walter , Salvia Amanda Lange , Fendt Maren Theresa Christin , Babaganov Rachel , Albertini Maria Cristina , Bonoli Alessandra , Lackner Maximilian , Müller de Quevedo Daniela
Published: March 2021

There is an urgent need to assess European citizens’ perspective regarding their plastic consumption and to evaluate their awareness of the direct and indirect effect of plastics on human health in order to influence current behavior trends. In this study, the evaluation has been cross-related with scientific facts, with the final aim of detecting the most recommendable paths in increasing human awareness, reducing plastic consumption, and consequently impacting human health. A statistical analysis of quantitative data, gathered from 1000 European citizens via an online survey in the period from May to June 2020, showed that a general awareness about the direct impact of plastic consumption and contamination (waste) on human health is high in Europe. However, only a few participants (from a higher educational group) were aware of the indirect negative effects that oil extraction and industrial production of plastic can have on human health. This finding calls for improved availability of this information to general public. Despite the participants’ positive attitude toward active plastic reduction (61%), plastic consumption on a daily basis is still very high (86%). The most common current actions toward plastic reduction are plastic bag usage, reusage, or replacement with sustainable alternatives (e.g., textile bags) and selecting products with less plastic packaging. The participants showed important criticism toward the information available to the general public about plastics and health. This awareness is important since significant relation has been found between the available information and the participants’ decisions on the actions they might undertake to reduce plastic consumption. The study clearly showed the willingness of the participants to take action, but they also requested to be strongly supported with joint efforts from government, policies, and marketing, defining it as the most successful way toward implementing these changes.
Influence of Size and Maturity on Injury in Young Elite Soccer Players
Authors: Rinaldo Natascia , Gualdi-Russo Emanuela , Zaccagni Luciana
Published: March 2021

The involvement of pre-adolescents in soccer is becoming more and more frequent, and this growing participation generates some concerns about the potential factors for sports injuries. The purpose of this study was to investigate sports injuries in younger (U9–U11) and older (U12–U13) children playing soccer at an elite level, analyzing potential anthropometric and maturity risk factors. A total of 88 elite soccer players aged 9–13 years were investigated. Weight, stature, and sitting height were measured at the start and at the end of the competitive season, computing the relative growth velocities. Additional body composition parameters were taken during a second survey. Maturity offset was calculated using predictive equations based on anthropometric traits such as years from age at peak height velocity (YPHV). Injuries suffered during the competitive season were recorded. Maturity and some anthropometric characteristics were significantly different according to the presence or absence of injuries among the players. Multiple logistic regression revealed that YPHV, body mass index (BMI), and calf muscle area were the factors most significantly correlated with injuries. Players with increased BMI, with decreased calf muscle area, and who were closer to their peak height velocity, were at a higher risk of injury. Findings showed that a monitoring program of anthropometric characteristics taking into account the maturational stage needs to be developed to prevent injuries.
Assessing Approaches of Human Inhalation Exposure to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons: A Review
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Yang Lu , Zhang Hao , Xing Wanli , Wang Yan , Bai Pengchu , Zhang Lulu , Hayakawa Kazuichi , Toriba Akira , Wei Yongjie , Tang Ning
Published: March 2021

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a class of important organic pollutants widely emitted from anthropogenic activities, with a general distribution in the gas and particulate phases. Some PAHs are carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic. Inhalation exposure to PAHs is correlated with adverse health outcomes in the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Thus, it is significant to determine the exposure level of the general population. This study summarizes the evaluation methods for PAH exposure, focusing on different exposure parameters. External exposure can be determined via the collection of the environmental pollution concentration through active samplers or passive samplers during environmental monitoring or personal sampling. Time-activity patterns give critical exposure information that captures the exposure period, origin, and behaviors. Modeling is a labor-less approach for human exposure estimation, and microenvironmental exposure requires specific research. It is important to select appropriate methods to quantify the exposure level to provide accurate data to establish the exposure–risk relationship and make scientific suggestions for the protection of public health.
The Effectiveness of Community Occupational Therapy Interventions: A Scoping Review
Authors: Estrany-Munar Maria-Francesca , Talavera-Valverde Miguel-Ángel , Souto-Gómez Ana-Isabel , Márquez-Álvarez Luis-Javier , Moruno-Miralles Pedro
Published: March 2021

Background: This review aims to evaluate the level of scientific evidence for the effectiveness of Community Occupational Therapy interventions. Methods: A systematic review was used to analyze and synthesize the studies collected. The databases of Cochrane, OTseeker, OTCATS, Web of Science, Scielo and Scopus were used in order to collect articles published between 2007 and 2020. PRISMA recommendations were followed. Results: A total of 12 articles comprised part of the study (7 randomized controlled studies, 4 systematic reviews and 1 meta-analysis). The main areas of practice were geriatric gerontology (22.1%) and mental health (19.7%), which were statistically significant (χ2; p < 0.005) compared to the rest. Regarding the studies analyzed, all of them had scores of >7 on the PEDro and AMSTAR scales. Conclusions: Research on Community Occupational Therapy constitutes a consolidated line of research but the objectives and areas of research were limited. Descriptive qualitative methodology predominated and studies on the effectiveness of Community Occupational Therapy interventions showed a medium–low level of evidence.
Understanding the Impact of Initial COVID-19 Restrictions on Physical Activity, Wellbeing and Quality of Life in Shielding Adults with End-Stage Renal Disease in the United Kingdom Dialysing at Home versus In-Centre and Their Experiences with Telemedicine
Authors: Antoun Joe , Brown Daniel J. , Jones Daniel J. W. , Sangala Nicholas C. , Lewis Robert J. , Shepherd Anthony I. , McNarry Melitta A. , Mackintosh Kelly A. , Mason Laura , Corbett Jo , Saynor Zoe L.
Published: March 2021

Early in the coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) containment strategy, people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) were identified as extremely clinically vulnerable and subsequently asked to ‘shield’ at home where possible. The aim of this study was to investigate how these restrictions and the transition to an increased reliance on telemedicine within clinical care of people living with kidney disease impacted the physical activity (PA), wellbeing and quality of life (QoL) of adults dialysing at home (HHD) or receiving in-centre haemodialysis (ICHD) in the UK. Individual semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with adults receiving HHD (n = 10) or ICHD (n = 10), were transcribed verbatim and, subsequently, thematically analysed. As result of the COVID-19 restrictions, PA, wellbeing and QoL of people with ESRD were found to have been hindered. However, widespread support for the continued use of telemedicine was strongly advocated and promoted independence and satisfaction in patient care. These findings highlight the need for more proactive care of people with ESRD if asked to shield again, as well as increased awareness of safe and appropriate PA resources to help with home-based PA and emotional wellbeing.
Factors That Influence Participation in Physical Activity in School-Aged Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review from the Social Ecological Model Perspective
Authors: Hu Donglin , Zhou Shi , Crowley-McHattan Zachary J. , Liu Zhiyun
Published: March 2021

High prevalence of physical inactivity and obesity in children and adolescents has become a global problem. This systematic review aimed to examine the existing literature regarding the factors that influence participation in physical activity (PA) in children and adolescents with reference to the social ecological model (SEM) proposed by McLeroy et al. (1988). The SEM provides a framework under which the influencing factors are categorized into five levels: intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational, community, and public policy. A systematic search of relevant literature published before July 2020 was conducted through Ebsco, ProQuest, PubMed Central, Scopus, and Web of Science. A total of fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The selected articles were all of high quality as assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (2018). The results indicated that gender, age, ethnicity, and self-concept were the most common influencing factors at the intrapersonal level. At the interpersonal and organization levels, supports from friends, parents, and teachers were positive predictors of students’ PA participation. Accessibility of facilities and safe neighborhoods was a crucial factor that influenced children and adolescents’ participation in PA at the community level. Future studies on the effective types of policies or practices that could successfully promote facilities’ accessibility and improve neighborhood safety are required. The outcomes of this systematic review are expected to inform practice and support the development and implementation of sound policies for the promotion of PA participation in children or adolescents from a comprehensive social ecological viewpoint.
Assessing Elementary School Students’ Manipulative Skill Competency in China
Authors: Chen Jun , Wang Xiaozan , Zhang Zhanjia , Chen Weiyun
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to test the validity and reliability of the Physical Education (PE) Metric Assessment Rubrics for assessing 4th-grade students’ manipulative skill competency and examine how well they demonstrated manipulative skill competency. Participants were 4th-grade students at six elementary schools in China. A total of 535 4th-grade students were assessed their soccer skills and 819 4th-grade students were assessed their basketball skills using the PE-Metric Assessment Rubrics. The results found that the soccer and basketball skill assessments had a high degree of internal consistency. And the results showed that the soccer and basketball skill assessment rubrics had a good factor structure. The students’ mean score in soccer and basketball skills assessment was lower than the Overall Competent Level. Further, the t-test indicated that soccer and basketball skill assessments had a significant difference in the mean score of Overall Competent Level between the boys and the girls. The PE-Metric Assessment Rubrics were valid and reliable assessment tools for assessing the manipulative skill competency in soccer and basketball skills among 4th-grade students in China. This study suggested that Chinese elementary school students need to improve basic manipulative skill competency in soccer and basketball skills.
Competitive Evolution of Professional Wheelchair Tennis from the Paralympic Games in Athens 2004 to Rio 2016: An Observational Study
Authors: Sánchez-Pay Alejandro , Sanz-Rivas David
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study was to analyse and compare the activity pattern and technical-tactical parameters of men’s wheelchair tennis matches from the Paralympic Games (PG) in Athens 2004 (A), Beijing 2008 (B), London 2012 (L) and Rio 2016 (R). A total of 5702 shots from twelve final round matches were analysed. Activity patterns (e.g., rally duration, shots per rally…) and technical effectivity (e.g., errors, winners…) were recorded. An ANOVA test with post hoc pairwise comparisons was conducted to compare the mean differences among matches of different PG. Game duration, points and shots per game differed according to the PG (R and L > B and A). Rally duration (p < 0.001) and shots per rally (p < 0.001) were longer at R and L than B and A. The effectivity of the last shots was different, the errors have been increasing and the winners have been decreasing. The main finding indicates that activity patterns and technical parameters have evolved mainly between A and B to L and R. This study gives an overview of the development of the sport over time, and coaches can use this information to adapt their training sessions to the current needs of the competition.
Intracellular and Tissue Levels of Vitamin B12 in Hepatocytes Are Modulated by CD320 Receptor and TCN2 Transporter
Authors: Boachie Joseph , Adaikalakoteswari Antonysunil , Goljan Ilona , Samavat Jinous , Cagampang Felino R. , Saravanan Ponnusamy
Published: March 2021

The liver mass constitutes hepatocytes expressing receptors for vitamin B12 (B12)-bound transporters in circulation. However, intrahepatic and circulating B12 interrelationship levels remain unclear. We assessed the intracellular B12 levels at various circulating B12 concentrations in human HepG2 cell-line and liver tissue levels of B12 in the C57BL/6 mouse model. In HepG2 cells treated with a range of B12 concentrations, the intracellular and circulatory B12 levels, transcript and protein levels of B12 receptor (CD320) and transporter (TCN2) were determined using immunoassays, qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Similar assessments were done in plasma and liver tissue of C57BL/6 mice, previously fed a diet of either a high or low B12 (30.82 µg B12/kg and 7.49 µg B12/kg, respectively) for 8–10 weeks. The physiological B12 status (0.15–1 nM) resulted in increased levels of intracellular B12 in HepG2 cells compared to supraphysiological levels of B12 (>1 nM). Gene and protein expression of CD320 and TCN2 were also higher at physiological levels of B12. Progressively increasing extracellular B12 to supraphysiological levels led to relative decreased levels of intracellular B12, lower expression of gene and protein levels of CD320 and TCN2. Similar results were observed in liver tissue from mice fed on a low B12 diet verses high B12 diet. These findings suggest that unlike supraphysiological B12, physiological levels of B12 in the extracellular media or circulation accelerates active transport of B12, and expression of CD320 and TCN2, resulting in higher relative uptake of B12 in hepatocytes.
Nanomaterials for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Inflammatory Arthritis
Authors: Hosseinikhah Seyedeh Maryam , Barani Mahmood , Rahdar Abbas , Madry Henning , Arshad Rabia , Mohammadzadeh Vahideh , Cucchiarini Magali
Published: March 2021

Nanomaterials have received increasing attention due to their unique chemical and physical properties for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the most common complex multifactorial joint-associated autoimmune inflammatory disorder. RA is characterized by an inflammation of the synovium with increased production of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10) and by the destruction of the articular cartilage and bone, and it is associated with the development of cardiovascular disorders such as heart attack and stroke. While a number of imaging tools allow for the monitoring and diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis, and despite ongoing work to enhance their sensitivity and precision, the proper assessment of RA remains difficult particularly in the early stages of the disease. Our goal here is to describe the benefits of applying various nanomaterials as next-generation RA imaging and detection tools using contrast agents and nanosensors and as improved drug delivery systems for the effective treatment of the disease.
Distinct Regulation of Dopamine D3 Receptor in the Basolateral Amygdala and Dentate Gyrus during the Reinstatement of Cocaine CPP Induced by Drug Priming and Social Stress
Authors: Guerrero-Bautista Rocío , Franco-García Aurelio , Hidalgo Juana M. , Fernández-Gómez Francisco José , Ribeiro Do Couto Bruno , Milanés M. Victoria , Núñez Cristina
Published: March 2021

Relapse in the seeking and intake of cocaine is one of the main challenges when treating its addiction. Among the triggering factors for the recurrence of cocaine use are the re-exposure to the drug and stressful events. Cocaine relapse engages the activity of memory-related nuclei, such as the basolateral amygdala (BLA) and the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG), which are responsible for emotional and episodic memories. Moreover, D3 receptor (D3R) antagonists have recently arisen as a potential treatment for preventing drug relapse. Thus, we have assessed the impact of D3R blockade in the expression of some dopaminergic markers and the activity of the mTOR pathway, which is modulated by D3R, in the BLA and DG during the reinstatement of cocaine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) evoked by drug priming and social stress. Reinstatement of cocaine CPP paralleled an increasing trend in D3R and dopamine transporter (DAT) levels in the BLA. Social stress, but not drug-induced reactivation of cocaine memories, was prevented by systemic administration of SB-277011-A (a selective D3R antagonist), which was able, however, to impede D3R and DAT up-regulation in the BLA during CPP reinstatement evoked by both stress and cocaine. Concomitant with cocaine CPP reactivation, a diminution in mTOR phosphorylation (activation) in the BLA and DG occurred, which was inhibited by D3R blockade in both nuclei before the social stress episode and only in the BLA when CPP reinstatement was provoked by a cocaine prime. Our data, while supporting a main role for D3R signalling in the BLA in the reactivation of cocaine memories evoked by social stress, indicate that different neural circuits and signalling mechanisms might mediate in the reinstatement of cocaine-seeking behaviours depending upon the triggering stimuli.
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Mediating Methylmercury Neurotoxicity and Neuroinflammation
Authors: Novo João P. , Martins Beatriz , Raposo Ramon S. , Pereira Frederico C. , Oriá Reinaldo B. , Malva João O. , Fontes-Ribeiro Carlos
Published: March 2021

Methylmercury (MeHg) toxicity is a major environmental concern. In the aquatic reservoir, MeHg bioaccumulates along the food chain until it is consumed by riverine populations. There has been much interest in the neurotoxicity of MeHg due to recent environmental disasters. Studies have also addressed the implications of long-term MeHg exposure for humans. The central nervous system is particularly susceptible to the deleterious effects of MeHg, as evidenced by clinical symptoms and histopathological changes in poisoned humans. In vitro and in vivo studies have been crucial in deciphering the molecular mechanisms underlying MeHg-induced neurotoxicity. A collection of cellular and molecular alterations including cytokine release, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, Ca2+ and glutamate dyshomeostasis, and cell death mechanisms are important consequences of brain cells exposure to MeHg. The purpose of this review is to organize an overview of the mercury cycle and MeHg poisoning events and to summarize data from cellular, animal, and human studies focusing on MeHg effects in neurons and glial cells. This review proposes an up-to-date compendium that will serve as a starting point for further studies and a consultation reference of published studies.