bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Research on Forest Fire Image Segmentation Algorithms Based on Fully Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Wang Ziqi , Peng Tao , Lu Zhaoyou
Published: July 2022

In recent years, frequent forest fires have plagued countries all over the world, causing serious economic damage and human casualties. Faster and more accurate detection of forest fires and timely interventions have become a research priority. With the advancement in deep learning, fully convolutional network architectures have achieved excellent results in the field of image segmentation. More researchers adopt these models to segment flames for fire monitoring, but most of the works are aimed at fires in buildings and industrial scenarios. However, there are few studies on the application of various fully convolutional models to forest fire scenarios, and comparative experiments are inadequate. In view of the above problems, on the basis of constructing the dataset with remote-sensing images of forest fires captured by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and the targeted optimization of the data enhancement process, four classical semantic segmentation models and two backbone networks are selected for modeling and testing analysis. By comparing inference results and the evaluation indicators of models such as mPA and mIoU, we can find out the models that are more suitable for forest fire segmentation scenarios. The results show that the U-Net model with Resnet50 as a backbone network has the highest segmentation accuracy of forest fires with the best comprehensive performance, and is more suitable for scenarios with high-accuracy requirements; the DeepLabV3+ model with Resnet50 is slightly less accurate than U-Net, but it can still ensure a satisfying segmentation performance with a faster running speed, which is suitable for scenarios with high real-time requirements. In contrast, FCN and PSPNet have poorer segmentation performance and, hence, are not suitable for forest fire detection scenarios.
Phenological Shifts of the Deciduous Forests and Their Responses to Climate Variations in North America
Authors: Li Zixuan , Fang Husheng , Tu Jianguang , Li Xiaolei , Sha Zongyao
Published: July 2022

Forests play a vital role in sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Vegetation phenology is sensitive to climate changes and natural environments. Exploring the patterns in phenological events of the forests can provide useful insights for understanding the dynamics of vegetation growth and their responses to climate variations. Deciduous forest in North America is an important part of global forests. Here we apply time-series remote sensing imagery to map the critical dates of vegetation phenological events, including the start of season (SOS), end of season (EOS), and growth length (GL) of the deciduous forests in North America during the past two decades. The findings show that the SOS and EOS present considerable spatial and temporal variations. Earlier SOS, delayed EOS, and therefore extended GL are detected in a large part of the study area from temporal trend analysis over the years, though the magnitude of the trend varies at different locations. The phenological events are found to correlate to the environmental factors and the impact on the vegetation phenology from the factors is location-dependent. The findings confirm that the phenology of the deciduous forests in North America is updated such as advanced SOS and delayed EOS in the last two decades and the climate variations are likely among the driving forces for the updates. Considering that previous studies warn that shifts in vegetation phenology could reverse the role of forests as net emitters or net sinks, we suggest that forest management should be strengthened to forests that experience significant changes in the phenological events.
Research on Tree Ring Micro-Destructive Detection Technology Based on Digital Micro-Drilling Resistance Method
Authors: Hu Xueyang , Zheng Yili , Xing Da , Sun Qingfeng
Published: July 2022

Micro-drilling resistance method is a widely used tree ring micro-destructive detection technology. To solve the problem that the detection signal of the analog micro-drilling resistance method has excessive noise interference and cannot intuitively identify tree ring information, this research proposes a digital micro-drilling resistance method and provides a recommended hardware implementation. The digital micro-drilling resistance method adopts the photoelectric encoder instead of ADC as the signal sampling module. Through the theoretical analysis of the DC motor characteristic, the PWM closed-loop speed control, the detection principle of the digital method is given. Additionally, the experimental equipment that can complete the detection of the digital method and the analog method simultaneously is designed to carry out comparative experiments. The experimental results show that: (1) The detection results of the digital method have a better-quality signal which can intuitively identify the tree rings. (2) The average correlation coefficient reaches 0.9365 between the detection results of the digital method and the analog method. (3) The average Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) of the digital method is 39.0145 dB, which is 19.2590 dB higher than that of the analog method. The average noise interference energy in the detection result of the digital method is only 1.27% of the analog method. In summary, hardware implementation of the digital micro-drilling resistance method can correctly reflect the tree ring information and significantly improve the signal quality of the micro-drilling resistance technology. This research is helping to improve the identification accuracy of micro-drilling resistance technology, and to develop the application of tree ring micro-destructive detection technology in the high-precision field.
Spatial and Temporal Evolution of Ecosystem Service Value in Shaanxi Province against the Backdrop of Grain for Green
Authors: Li Kai , Zhang Beiying
Published: July 2022

The Grain for Green Project (GGP) has influenced Shaanxi Province’s land-use pattern, resulting in a shift in ecosystem service value (ESV). Exploring the spatial and temporal evolution of the pattern of land use and ESV in Shaanxi Province, before and after the project’s implementation, can give a theoretical foundation for regional land-use planning. For this study, we used the transfer matrix and the value equivalent approaches to investigate the influence of project implementation on the spatial distribution and evolution of patterns of land use and ESV in Shaanxi Province based on four periods of land-use data from 1990 to 2020. The results suggest the following: (1) Farmland, forestland, and grassland were the most common land-types in Shaanxi Province. Farmland, forestland, and grassland in Shaanxi Province were all altered dramatically over the research period due to the GGP. Farmland was turned mostly into forestland and grassland, and forestland and grassland areas progressively grew. (2) The ESVs in Shaanxi Province were USD 3802.82, 3814.90, 3836.20, and 3806.50 billion in 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020, respectively. The most value was supplied by hydrological management, while water resources provided the lowest value. Forestland and grassland were the most valuable land-types in high-value locations, whereas built-up land was the most valuable land-type in low-value areas. (3) While the GGP has increased the ESV of forestland and grassland, it has harmed the acreage of other land-types, resulting in a decline in the total ESV in Shaanxi Province.
Sugarcane Bagasse-Based Ethanol Production and Utilization of Its Vinasse for Xylitol Production as an Approach in Integrated Biorefinery
Authors: Hor Sreyden , Kongkeitkajorn Mallika Boonmee , Reungsang Alissara
Published: July 2022

Biorefinery of sugarcane bagasse into ethanol and xylitol was investigated in this study. Ethanol fermentation of sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate was carried out by Saccharomyces cerevisiae. After ethanol distillation, the vinasse containing xylose was used to produce xylitol through fermentation by Candida guilliermondii TISTR 5068. During the ethanol fermentation, it was not necessary to supplement a nitrogen source to the hydrolysate. Approximately 50 g/L of bioethanol was produced after 36 h of fermentation. The vinasse was successfully used to produce xylitol. Supplementing the vinasse with 1 g/L of yeast extract improved xylitol production 1.4-fold. Cultivating the yeast with 10% controlled dissolved oxygen resulted in the best xylitol production and yields of 10.2 ± 1.12 g/L and 0.74 ± 0.04 g/g after 60 h fermentation. Supplementing the vinasse with low fraction of molasses to improve xylitol production did not yield a positive result. The supplementation caused decreases of up to 34% in xylitol production rate, 24% in concentration, and 24% in yield.
Bacterial Diversity and Dynamics during Spontaneous Cheese Whey Fermentation at Different Temperatures
Authors: Mazorra-Manzano Miguel A. , Robles-Porchas Glen R. , Martínez-Porchas Marcel , Ramírez-Suárez Juan C. , García-Sifuentes Celia O. , Torres-Llanez María J. , González-Córdova Aarón F. , Hernández-Mendoza Adrián , Vallejo-Cordoba Belinda
Published: July 2022

The effect of temperature (32–50 °C) on bacterial dynamics and taxonomic structure was evaluated during spontaneous whey fermentation for lactic acid production. Bacterial plate count in fresh whey (5 log CFU/mL) increased in two orders of magnitude after 60 h of fermentation (7 log CFU/mL), followed by one log reduction after 120 h (6 log CFU/mL) at 37 and 42 °C. Streptococcus and Lactobacillus counts ranged between 5–9 and 5–8 log CFU/mL, respectively. High-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene (V3-V4 region) used as a taxonomic marker revealed thirteen different bacterial phyla. Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria were detected in all fermentation treatments (32–50 °C, 0–120 h), where Firmicutes was the predominant phylum. Bacterial diversity included more than 150 bacterial genera with predominant lactic acid bacteria (belonging to Firmicutes) such as Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Streptococcus, and Tetragenococcus. At the species level, fresh whey presented 61 predominant species (relative abundance > 0.05%); however, only 57.4% of these resisted the fermentation conditions (most of them belonging to lactic acid bacteria genera). Tetragenococcus halophilus, Lactococcus lactis, and Enterococcus casseliflavus were the predominant bacteria found in all treatments. Temperatures between 37–42 °C were more favorable for lactic acid production and could be considered appropriate conditions for fermented whey production and for the standardization of some artisanal cheese-making processes requiring acid whey addition for milk coagulation. The diversity of native beneficial bacteria found in fresh whey offers attractive technological characteristics, and their fermentative capacity would represent a biotechnological option to add value to cheese whey.
Fuel in Tasmanian Dry Eucalypt Forests: Prediction of Fuel Load and Fuel Hazard Rating from Fuel Age
Authors: Marsden-Smedley Jon B. , Anderson Wendy R. , Pyrke Adrian F.
Published: July 2022

This paper presents equations for fuel load and fuel hazard rating (FHR) models based on the time since last fire for dry eucalypt forests in eastern Tasmania. The fuel load equations predict the load of the surface/near-surface and elevated fine fuel. The FHR equations predict the surface, near-surface, combined surface and near-surface, bark, and overall FHR. The utility of the “Overall fuel hazard assessment guide” from Victoria, Australia, is assessed for Tasmanian dry eucalypt forests: we conclude that, when fuel strata components are weighted according to their influence on fire behaviour, the Victorian guide provides a rapid, robust, and effective methodology for estimating FHR. The equations in this paper will be used for operational planning and on-the-ground performing of hazard reduction burning, prediction of fire behaviour for fire risk assessments and bushfire control, and providing inputs into the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System.
Riblet Drag Reduction Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Mele Benedetto
Published: July 2022

One of the most interesting passive drag reduction techniques is based on the use of riblets or streamwise grooved surfaces. Detailed flow features inside the grooves can be numerically detected only by Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS), still unfeasible for high Reynolds numbers and complex flows. Many papers report the DNS of flows on microgrooved surfaces providing fundamental details on the drag reduction devices, but all are limited to plate or channel flows far from engineering Reynolds numbers. The numerical simulation of riblets and other drag reduction devices at very high Reynolds numbers is difficult to perform due to the riblet dimensions (microns in aeronautical applications). To overcome these difficulties, some models for riblet simulation have been developed in recent years, due to the data provided by DNS, experiments, and theoretical analyses. In all these models, the drag reduction is modeled rather than effectively captured; however, the analysis of some nonlocal effects on practical aeronautical configurations with riblets, requires their adoption. In this paper, the capabilities of these models in predicting riblets’ performance and some interesting features of the riblets’ effect on form drag and shock waves are shown. Two models are discussed and compared showing their respective advantages and limitations and providing possible enhancements. A comparison between the two models in terms of accuracy and convergence is discussed, and two new formulae are proposed to improve one of these models. Finally, a review of the results obtained by the two models is provided showing their capabilities in the analysis of the riblet effect on complex configurations.
Preparation, Physicochemical Characterization, and Antioxidant Activity of Naringin–Silk Fibroin–Alginate Microspheres and Application in Yogurt
Authors: Wang Hongyue , Hu Hao , Zhang Xindi , Zheng Lijun , Ruan Jingxin , Cao Jiaqing , Zhang Xiangrong
Published: July 2022

Naringin is the major polyphenol in bitter orange peel with antioxidant property. However, its pH sensitivity, low solubility, and bitter taste limit its application in food. In this study, naringin–sodium alginate–silk fibroin microspheres were prepared by the ionic gel method. The loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency of naringin in microspheres were 13.2% and 77.6%, respectively. The morphology of microspheres was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The X-ray diffractometry and differential scanning calorimetry results showed naringin was amorphous after encapsulation. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and molecular docking analysis confirmed the intermolecular hydrogen bonds between naringin and sodium alginate. Naringin could release from the microspheres continuously under different pH conditions. Compared with free naringin, the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity and the stability of naringin microspheres were significantly improved. The application of naringin microspheres in yogurt indicated the precipitation of whey could be effectively reduced and the decline rate of pH was inhibited. The study suggested that naringin encapsulated microspheres were beneficial for improving the shelf life of this bioactive product as well as providing a new idea for functional yogurt.
Recent Developments and Applications of Nanosystems in the Preservation of Meat and Meat Products
Authors: Ulloa-Saavedra Araceli , García-Betanzos Claudia , Zambrano-Zaragoza María , Quintanar-Guerrero David , Mendoza-Elvira Susana , Velasco-Bejarano Benjamín
Published: July 2022

Due to their high water, lipid, and protein content, meat and meat products are highly perishable. The principal spoilage mechanisms involved are protein and lipid oxidation and deterioration caused by microbial growth. Therefore, efforts are ongoing to ensure food safety and increase shelf life. The development of low-cost, innovative, eco-friendly approaches, such as nanotechnology, using non-toxic, inexpensive, FDA-approved ingredients is reducing the incorporation of chemical additives while enhancing effectiveness and functionality. This review focuses on advances in the incorporation of natural additives that increase the shelf life of meat and meat products through the application of nanosystems. The main solvent-free preparation methods are reviewed, including those that involve mixing organic–inorganic or organic–organic compounds with such natural substances as essential oils and plant extracts. The performance of these additives is analyzed in terms of their antioxidant effect when applied directly to meat as edible coatings or marinades, and during manufacturing processes. The review concludes that nanotechnology represents an excellent option for the efficient design of new meat products with enhanced characteristics.
Tooth Cementum Annulation: A Literature Review
Authors: Perrone Valentina , Gocha Timothy P. , Randolph-Quinney Patrick , Procopio Noemi
Published: July 2022

Tooth Cementum Annulation (or TCA) is a technique that relies on the analysis of the incremental growth of dental cementum for age and season at death estimation. It has been extensively adopted as a “black box technique”, despite numerous controversies. Its potential in forensics called for this review, which aims to provide the reader with an overarching critical synthesis of what has been done and what is known about the TCA from different perspectives. Results have been divided according to three different themes: human, animal and evolutionary studies, as well as biological studies. The summary and comparison of these show the complexity of this topic, its limits, and how the scientific community can collectively collaborate for improvements. Overall, it is clear that the potential of the TCA is significant in terms of age and season at death estimation and that (as long as its biology is still addressed and researched for) there should not be any reason to not consider this technique as valid as the other anthropological methods adopted for biological profiling.
Exact Solutions of the Nonlinear Modified Benjamin-Bona-Mahony Equation by an Analytical Method
Authors: Alotaibi Trad , Althobaiti Ali
Published: July 2022

The current manuscript investigates the exact solutions of the modified Benjamin-Bona-Mahony (BBM) equation. Due to its efficiency and simplicity, the modified auxiliary equation method is adopted to solve the problem under consideration. As a result, a variety of the exact wave solutions of the modified BBM equation are obtained. Furthermore, the findings of the current study remain strong since Jacobi function solutions generate hyperbolic function solutions and trigonometric function solutions, as liming cases of interest. Some of the obtained solutions are illustrated graphically using appropriate values for the parameters.
Identification of Differential Expression Genes between Volume and Pressure Overloaded Hearts Based on Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Fu Yuanfeng , Zhao Di , Zhou Yufei , Lu Jing , Kang Le , Jiang Xueli , Xu Ran , Ding Zhiwen , Zou Yunzeng
Published: July 2022

Volume overload (VO) and pressure overload (PO) are two common pathophysiological conditions associated with cardiac disease. VO, in particular, often occurs in a number of diseases, and no clinically meaningful molecular marker has yet been established. We intend to find the main differential gene expression using bioinformatics analysis. GSE97363 and GSE52796 are the two gene expression array datasets related with VO and PO, respectively. The LIMMA algorithm was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of VO and PO. The DEGs were divided into three groups and subjected to functional enrichment analysis, which comprised GO analysis, KEGG analysis, and the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network. To validate the sequencing data, cardiomyocytes from AR and TAC mouse models were used to extract RNA for qRT-PCR. The three genes with random absolute values of LogFC and indicators of heart failure (natriuretic peptide B, NPPB) were detected: carboxylesterase 1D (CES1D), whirlin (WHRN), and WNK lysine deficient protein kinase 2 (WNK2). The DEGs in VO and PO were determined to be 2761 and 1093, respectively, in this study. Following the intersection, 305 genes were obtained, 255 of which expressed the opposing regulation and 50 of which expressed the same regulation. According to the GO and pathway enrichment studies, DEGs with opposing regulation are mostly common in fatty acid degradation, propanoate metabolism, and other signaling pathways. Finally, we used Cytoscape’s three techniques to identify six hub genes by intersecting 255 with the opposite expression and constructing a PPI network. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARα), acyl-CoA dehydrogenase medium chain (ACADM), patatin-like phospholipase domain containing 2 (PNPLA2), isocitrate dehydrogenase 3 (IDH3), heat shock protein family D member 1 (HSPD1), and dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase (DLAT) were identified as six potential genes. Furthermore, we predict that the hub genes PPARα, ACADM, and PNPLA2 regulate VO myocardial changes via fatty acid metabolism and acyl-Coa dehydrogenase activity, and that these genes could be employed as basic biomarkers for VO diagnosis and treatment.
Mild Cognitive Impairment in Rural Areas: Research Advances and Implications for Clinical Practice and Healthcare Policy
Authors: Peritogiannis Vaios , Roganaki Aglaia , Siarava Eleftheria , Samakouri Maria
Published: July 2022

Mild cognitive or neurocognitive impairment (MCI) may be more prevalent in rural areas. Differences between rural and urban MCI patients in terms of risk factors, course and prognosis are rarely reported. The present review aims to summarize the latest research on MCI in rural areas. A literature search was performed in the databases of PubMed, Scopus and ScienceDirect for articles published over the last decade. Eleven articles were included in this review, reporting on the differences between rural and urban MCI patients. Several risk factors, such as older age, lack of activities and food insecurity have been associated with MCI in both rural and urban areas, whereas others, such as obesity, adverse childhood experiences and plasma chemokine C-C motif ligand 11 (considered as a potential negative regulator of neurogenesis), differed according to the place of residence. No specific protective factor for rural women has been reported. There is some evidence that MCI may present earlier in rural residents, but that progression to dementia may be more rapid in urban residents. It seems that there may be clinically relevant differences in the onset, course and prognosis of MCI with regards to the place of residence (urban vs rural). Those differences should be taken into account for the design of health policies and service delivery across different settings.
Sense of Coherence and Work Stress or Well-Being in Care Professionals: A Systematic Review
Authors: González-Siles Pablo , Martí-Vilar Manuel , González-Sala Francisco , Merino-Soto César , Toledano-Toledano Filiberto
Published: July 2022

Job-related stress affects the physical and psychological health of professionals dedicated to care. This work is a systematic review that aims to determine the relationships between a sense of coherence (SOC) and work stress and well-being perceived by care professionals. The review was carried out following the PRISMA guidelines, and the search was carried out using the Web of Science (WoS), PubMed, and Scopus databases, obtaining a final selection of 41 articles. The results indicate that stress, depression, burnout, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) negatively correlate with SOC; in contrast, job satisfaction, well-being, and quality of life positively correlate with SOC. It is concluded that SOC could act as a mediating variable and as a predictor variable of these health problems.
pXRF Data Evaluation Methodology for On-Site Analysis of Precious Artifacts: Cobalt Used in the Blue Decoration of Qing Dynasty Overglazed Porcelain Enameled at Customs District (Guangzhou), Jingdezhen and Zaobanchu (Beijing) Workshops
Authors: Colomban Philippe , Simsek Franci Gulsu , Gironda Michele , d’Abrigeon Pauline , Schumacher Anne-Claire
Published: July 2022

In a noninvasive determination, Raman and XRF analyses showed the possibility of identifying specific phases and elements characteristic of the use of recipes and ingredients imported from Europe, according to the information documented in Chinese and European archives. Two sets of objects, supposed to have been produced during the Qing Dynasty (1662–1912) at the Forbidden City (‘imperial bowls’ of the Baur Foundation, Geneva) and in the customs district of Guangzhou (Musée Ariana, Geneva), were analyzed with pXRF and also for some objects with Raman microspectroscopy also on-site. The heterogeneity of the colored zones, in three spatial directions, requires the development of a new methodology. We focused particular attention on the cobalt used in the colored areas and marks, drawn either on the body layer (standard underglaze) or on the glaze itself (overglaze). Comparison is made with previous data on Chinese and Vietnamese porcelains from the Yuan (1271–1368) and Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) periods. Combined data for objects attributed to Guangzhou from the Kangxi and Yongzheng periods indicates the use of the same raw materials containing cobalt, associated with arsenic, nickel, zinc, copper and bismuth, according to the European sources. Similarity of the glaze composition and impurities promotes the production of the glazed body with the same raw materials as those used at Jingdezhen. A consistent shift in data for Qianlong style items, which are significantly richer in manganese, is compatible with their partial mixing with Asian cobalt. The deliberate selection of conflicting objects—namely, examples belonging to the other places of production or different periods—are well-observed outside the ‘Guangzhou’ cluster. Some artifacts have anachronistic purity characteristics that support a production after ca. 1850. For instance, two objects on which certain attributions had been made concerning the stylistic analysis are definitive examples of ceramics using a refined ‘cobalt’, and therefore now may be assigned to the later production period of the first half of the 19th century.
Comparing Different Methods for Pruning Pitaya (Hylocereus undatus)
Authors: Arredondo Emilio , Chiamolera Fernando M. , Casas Marina , Cuevas Julián
Published: July 2022

Recently there have been new trends in global consumption toward fresh foods that are sources of healthy bioactive compounds, as is the case with pitaya. However, pitaya cultivation is a relatively recent phenomenon and little is known about its management. The objective of this work is to determine the most appropriate annual fruiting pruning method for pitaya in order to obtain a regular annual yield of quality fruit and an intense shoot renewal that guarantee future production. This study compared the response of Hylocereus undatus to spur, cane, and combined pruning. As control plants, we left some plants where only sanitary pruning was performed. The results indicate that spur pruning greatly reduced flowering (seven times less than controls) and did not promote intense vegetative growth. Cane pruning, on the contrary, allowed greater flowering which is compatible with a higher number of new shoots (8% more than controls). The vigor of the new shoots was equal in all treatments. Fruit size and quality did not differ either among treatments. Spur pruning only seems applicable as a rejuvenation pruning. Combined pruning gave an intermediate response and seems of no interest given the good shoot renewal provided by cane pruning. Performing sanitary pruning alone may be an interesting option, but only in the first years of cultivation.
Mix-and-Match COVID-19 Vaccinations (Heterologous Boost): A Review
Authors: Garg Ishan , Sheikh Abu Baker , Pal Suman , Shekhar Rahul
Published: July 2022

Various safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines utilizing different platforms (mRNA, adenovirus vector, inactivated virus-based) are available against SARS-CoV-2 infection. A prime-boost regimen (administration of two doses) is recommended to induce an adequate and sustained immune response. Most of these vaccines follow a homologous regimen (the same type of vaccine as priming and booster doses). However, there is a growing interest in a heterologous prime-boost vaccination regimen to potentially help address concerns posed by fluctuating vaccine supplies, serious adverse effects (anaphylaxis and thromboembolic episodes following adenovirus-based vaccines), new emerging virulent strains, inadequate immune response in immunocompromised individuals, and waning immunity. Various studies have demonstrated that heterologous prime-boost vaccination may induce comparable or higher antibody (spike protein) titers and a similar reactogenicity profile to the homologous prime-boost regimen. Based on these considerations, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has issued guidance supporting the “mix-and-match” heterologous boost COVID-19 vaccine strategy.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Depressive Symptomatology in High School Students during the Lockdown Period Due to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Gómez-Delgado Guillermo , Almaraz-Vega Ernesto , Ramírez-Mireles Jaime Eduardo , Gutiérrez-Paredes María Elena , Padilla-Galindo María del Rocío
Published: July 2022

The objectives of this study were to evaluate and compare the prevalence of health-related quality of life and depressive symptomatology in high school students during the lockdown period due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with students attending the High School Education System of the University of Guadalajara, Jalisco, México. Through a Google Forms survey, students answered their perceptions of health-related quality of life and depressive symptomatology. The outcome variable was the presence of depressive symptoms, assessed using the Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.8 in both surveys. A total of 1446 students participated (women, 64.9%; mean age of 16.1 ± 0.9 years). Among the students, 22% manifested clinical depressive symptoms (24.4 ± 5.0), and males showed lower scores on health-related quality of life and depressive symptoms (44.9 ± 11.9, p = 0.005) (12 ± 7.7, p = <0.001) compared to their female peers (45.2 ± 10.6, p = 0.005) (13.7 ± 7.5, p = <0.001), respectively. During the lockdown due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a high prevalence of depressive symptomatology was identified in our students with in addition to a low perception of health-related quality of life in dimensions, mood and emotions, and peers and social support.
Spatial Distribution and Convergence of Agricultural Green Total Factor Productivity in China
Authors: Zhu Liping , Shi Rui , Mi Lincheng , Liu Pu , Wang Guofeng
Published: July 2022

The power source, spatial-temporal differentiation and convergence of the growth rate of green total factor productivity in China’s agriculture were analyzed. The Malmquist index was used to measure the growth rate, and the spatial-temporal convergence was tested by σ convergence, absolute β convergence, conditional β convergence and dynamic spatial convergence. The study drew conclusions that the impetus for the intensive growth of green agriculture was insufficient, and the driving force for the growth of agricultural green total factor productivity (AGTFP) in the eastern, western and central region was green technology progress. In addition, AGTFP did not have an absolute σ convergence trend. Dynamic spatial absolute β and conditional β convergence indicated that regional differences were not completely related to regional endowment conditions, and regional green agricultural production was unbalanced. This study provides an important support for regional green development in China’s agriculture.
Multifaceted Assessment of Wastewater-Based Epidemiology for SARS-CoV-2 in Selected Urban Communities in Davao City, Philippines: A Pilot Study
Authors: Otero Maria Catherine B. , Murao Lyre Anni E. , Limen Mary Antoinette G. , Caalim Daniel Rev A. , Gaite Paul Lorenzo A. , Bacus Michael G. , Acaso Joan T. , Miguel Refeim M. , Corazo Kahlil , Knot Ineke E. , Sajonia Homer , de los Reyes Francis L. , Jaraula Caroline Marie B. , Baja Emmanuel S. , Del Mundo Dann Marie N.
Published: July 2022

Over 60 countries have integrated wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) in their COVID-19 surveillance programs, focusing on wastewater treatment plants (WWTP). In this paper, we piloted the assessment of SARS-CoV-2 WBE as a complementary public health surveillance method in susceptible communities in a highly urbanized city without WWTP in the Philippines by exploring the extraction and detection methods, evaluating the contribution of physico-chemical–anthropogenic factors, and attempting whole-genome sequencing (WGS). Weekly wastewater samples were collected from sewer pipes or creeks in six communities with moderate-to-high risk of COVID-19 transmission, as categorized by the City Government of Davao from November to December 2020. Physico-chemical properties of the wastewater and anthropogenic conditions of the sites were noted. Samples were concentrated using a PEG-NaCl precipitation method and analyzed by RT-PCR to detect the SARS-CoV-2 N, RdRP, and E genes. A subset of nine samples were subjected to WGS using the Minion sequencing platform. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in twenty-two samples (91.7%) regardless of the presence of new cases. Cycle threshold values correlated with RNA concentration and attack rate. The lack of a sewershed map in the sampled areas highlights the need to integrate this in the WBE planning. A combined analysis of wastewater physico-chemical parameters such as flow rate, surface water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and total dissolved solids provided insights on the ideal sampling location, time, and method for WBE, and their impact on RNA recovery. The contribution of fecal matter in the wastewater may also be assessed through the coliform count and in the context of anthropogenic conditions in the area. Finally, our attempt on WGS detected single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in wastewater which included clinically reported and newly identified mutations in the Philippines. This exploratory report provides a contextualized framework for applying WBE surveillance in low-sanitation areas.
Research on Determining the Critical Influencing Factors of Carbon Emission Integrating GRA with an Improved STIRPAT Model: Taking the Yangtze River Delta as an Example
Authors: Guo Feipeng , Zhang Linji , Wang Zifan , Ji Shaobo
Published: July 2022

Driven by China’s peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality goals, each region should choose a suitable local implementation path according to local conditions, so it is of great significance to mine and analyze the critical influencing factors of regional carbon emissions. Therefore, this paper integrates grey relation analysis (GRA) and an improved STIRPAT model and selects the Yangtze River Delta region of China as the research object to analyze the factors affecting carbon emissions in four provinces in the region. Firstly, it uses the IPCC method to calculate the energy carbon emissions of each province. Secondly, according to the existing research, the relevant influencing factors of carbon emissions are sorted and summarized as candidate sets and this paper uses GRA to calculate the correlation degree of the above candidate sets. On this basis, this paper combines with the characteristics of the improved STIRPAT model to determine the index selection criteria and filter out the critical factors of each province. Thirdly, an improved STIRPAT model is constructed for each province to explore the influence of critical factors and analyze the influencing factors of carbon emissions in detail. The empirical results show that during the period from 2005 to 2019, the carbon emissions of the four provinces in the Yangtze River Delta are significantly different in structure and trend. At the same time, the critical influencing factors of each province are different and the influence of the same factor on different regions is significantly different. Finally, the policy suggestions for the provinces to achieve their peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality goals are precisely tailored to the different carbon emission influencing factors.
The Subjective Experience of Ageism: The Perceived Ageism Questionnaire (PAQ)
Authors: Brinkhof Lotte P. , de Wit Sanne , Murre Jaap M. J. , Krugers Harm J. , Ridderinkhof K. Richard
Published: July 2022

Ageism as perceived by older individuals has been recognized as a potential risk factor for physical and mental health. We aimed to develop a comprehensive scale that can quantify perceived ageism among aging individuals (55+), including both positive and negative stereotypes, prejudices, and discriminations. This effort resulted in an 8-item Perceived Ageism Questionnaire (PAQ-8), with good psychometric properties and a two-factor structure distinguishing a positive (3 items) and negative (5 items) subscale (Analysis 1; n = 500). This dimensionality was confirmed in a separate cross-validation sample (Analysis 2; n = 500). The subscales’ correlation patterns with individuals’ self-perceptions of aging and mental health variables (i.e., quality of life, mental well-being, depression, anxiety, loneliness and perceived stress) accorded with theoretical hypotheses and existing knowledge of the concept of ageism. The PAQ-8 can help to gather more standardized data of the level, role and impact of perceived ageism.
Recovering from Intimate Partner Violence through Strengths and Empowerment (RISE): Initial Evaluation of the Clinical Effects of RISE Administered in Routine Care in the US Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Iverson Katherine M. , Danitz Sara B. , Low Stephanie K. , Knetig Jennifer A. , Doyle Kathryn W. , Bruce LeAnn E.
Published: July 2022

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a common concern among military Veterans that negatively impacts health. The United States’ Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has launched a national IPV Assistance Program (IPVAP) to provide comprehensive services to Veterans, their families and caregivers, and VHA employees who use or experience IPV. Grounded in a holistic, Veteran-centered psychosocial rehabilitation framework that guides all facets of the program, the IPVAP initiated the pilot implementation of a novel intervention called Recovering from IPV through Strengths and Empowerment (RISE). This evidence-based, person-centered, trauma-informed, and empowerment-oriented brief counseling intervention is designed to support those who experience IPV and to improve their psychosocial wellbeing. This program evaluation study describes clinical outcomes from patients who participated in a pilot implementation of RISE in routine care. We examined changes in general self-efficacy, depression, and valued living, as well as treatment satisfaction among patients who received RISE and completed program evaluation measures at VHA facilities during the pilot. Results from 45 patients (84% women) indicate that RISE was associated with significant pretreatment to posttreatment improvements in self-efficacy, depression, and valued living (Cohen’s d s of 0.97, 1.09, and 0.51, respectively). Patients reported high satisfaction with treatment. Though preliminary results were similar across gender and IPV types, findings from the evaluation of the pilot implementation of RISE demonstrate the intervention’s feasibility, acceptability, and clinical utility in routine VHA care and inform the scalability of RISE. Additionally, findings provide preliminary support for the effectiveness and acceptability of RISE with men. Modification to RISE and its implementation are discussed, which may be useful to other settings implementing IPV interventions.
Assessment of Soil Salinity Changes under the Climate Change in the Khorezm Region, Uzbekistan
Authors: Khamidov Mukhamadkhan , Ishchanov Javlonbek , Hamidov Ahmad , Donmez Cenk , Djumaboev Kakhramon
Published: July 2022

Soil salinity negatively affects plant growth and leads to soil degradation. Saline lands result in low agricultural productivity, affecting the well-being of farmers and the economic situation in the region. The prediction of soil salinization dynamics plays a crucial role in sustainable development of agricultural regions, in preserving the ecosystems, and in improving irrigation management practices. Accurate information through monitoring and evaluating the changes in soil salinity is essential for the development of strategies for agriculture productivity and efficient soil management. As part of an ex-ante analysis, we presented a comprehensive statistical framework for predicting soil salinity dynamics using the Homogeneity test and linear regression model. The framework was operationalized in the context of the Khorezm region of Uzbekistan, which suffers from high levels of soil salinity. The soil salinity trends and levels were projected under the impact of climate change from 2021 to 2050 and 2051 to 2100. The results show that the slightly saline soils would generally decrease (from 55.4% in 2050 to 52.4% by 2100 based on the homogeneity test; from 55.9% in 2050 to 54.5% by 2100 according to the linear regression model), but moderately saline soils would increase (from 31.2% in 2050 to 32.5% by 2100 based on the homogeneity test; from 31.2% in 2050 to 32.4% by 2100 according to the linear regression model). Moreover, highly saline soils would increase (from 13.4% in 2050 to 15.1% by 2100 based on the homogeneity test; from 12.9% in 2050 to 13.1% by 2100 according to the linear regression model). The results of this study provide an understanding that soil salinity depends on climate change and help the government to better plan future management strategies for the region.
Organizational Health Literacy in Schools: Concept Development for Health-Literate Schools
Authors: Kirchhoff Sandra , Dadaczynski Kevin , Pelikan Jürgen M. , Zelinka-Roitner Inge , Dietscher Christina , Bittlingmayer Uwe H. , Okan Orkan
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Health literacy is considered a personal asset, important for meeting health-related challenges of the 21st century. Measures for assisting students’ health literacy development and improving health outcomes can be implemented in the school setting. First, this is achieved by providing students with learning opportunities to foster their personal health literacy, thus supporting behavior change. Second, it is achieved by measures at the organizational level promoting social change within the proximal and distal environment and supporting the school in becoming more health-literate. The latter approach is rooted in the concept of organizational health literacy, which comprises a settings-based approach aiming at changing organizational conditions to enhance health literacy of relevant stakeholders. The HeLit-Schools project aims to develop the concept of health-literate schools, describing aspects that need to be addressed for a school to become a health-literate organization. (2) Method: The concept development builds on existing concepts of organizational health literacy and its adaptation to the school setting. (3) Results: The adaptation results in the HeLit-Schools concept describing a health-literate school with eight standards. Each standard depicts an area within the school organization that can be developed for fostering health literacy of school-related persons. (4) Conclusions: The HeLit-Schools concept offers an approach to organizational development for sustainably strengthening health literacy.
Adherence to Combined Healthy Movement Behavior Guidelines among Adolescents: Effects on Cardiometabolic Health Markers
Authors: Guedes Dartagnan Pinto , Zuppa Marizete Arenhart
Published: July 2022

Background: The combined movement behavior guidelines for adolescents recommend ≥60 min of moderate to vigorous physical activity, ≤2 h of screen time, and 8–10 h of sleep. Considering that the information available on this topic in the young Latin American population is rare, this study aimed to identify the proportion of a sample of Brazilian adolescents meeting individual guidelines as well as the combination of the three healthy movement behavior guidelines. In addition, another objective of the study was to examine the effects of compliance with these guidelines on cardiometabolic health markers. Methods: This is a cross-sectional school-based study, with the participation of 306 adolescents aged 14 to 18 years. A questionnaire with structured questions was applied to collect data on physical activity, screen time, and sleep duration. Cardiometabolic health was assessed by the calculation of a continuous risk score, including twelve markers related to body fat, blood pressure, plasma lipids and lipoproteins, glycemia, and insulin. Results: Only 4.8% (4.3–5.4) of the adolescents met the three healthy movement behavior guidelines, while 9.3% (8.4–10.4) of the sample did not meet any of the guidelines. No significant difference between sexes was found in the simultaneous compliance of the three movement guidelines. Adolescents who did not meet any of the movement guidelines were twice as likely to have higher cardiometabolic risk (OR = 2.05 (1.41–3.17)) than their peers who met all three guidelines. Conclusions: Considering the high proportion of adolescents who did not meet the movement behavior guidelines and the negative effects on cardiometabolic health, it is suggested that future policies and interventions should consider an integrated and holistic approach aimed at simultaneous actions of maximizing physical activity, minimizing screen time, and ensuring sufficient sleep duration.
New Targets and New Technologies in the Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Montemurro Nicola , Aliaga Nelida , Graff Pablo , Escribano Amanda , Lizana Jafeth
Published: July 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, whose main neuropathological finding is pars compacta degeneration due to the accumulation of Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites, and subsequent dopamine depletion. This leads to an increase in the activity of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and the internal globus pallidus (GPi). Understanding functional anatomy is the key to understanding and developing new targets and new technologies that could potentially improve motor and non-motor symptoms in PD. Currently, the classical targets are insufficient to improve the entire wide spectrum of symptoms in PD (especially non-dopaminergic ones) and none are free of the side effects which are not only associated with the procedure, but with the targets themselves. The objective of this narrative review is to show new targets in DBS surgery as well as new technologies that are under study and have shown promising results to date. The aim is to give an overview of these new targets, as well as their limitations, and describe the current studies in this research field in order to review ongoing research that will probably become effective and routine treatments for PD in the near future.