bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Imaging Techniques for Radiotherapy Planning of Gliomas
Authors: Castellano Antonella , Bailo Michele , Cicone Francesco , Carideo Luciano , Quartuccio Natale , Mortini Pietro , Falini Andrea , Cascini Giuseppe Lucio , Minniti Giuseppe
Published: March 2021

The accuracy of target delineation in radiation treatment (RT) planning of cerebral gliomas is crucial to achieve high tumor control, while minimizing treatment-related toxicity. Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including contrast-enhanced T1-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequences, represents the current standard imaging modality for target volume delineation of gliomas. However, conventional sequences have limited capability to discriminate treatment-related changes from viable tumors, owing to the low specificity of increased blood-brain barrier permeability and peritumoral edema. Advanced physiology-based MRI techniques, such as MR spectroscopy, diffusion MRI and perfusion MRI, have been developed for the biological characterization of gliomas and may circumvent these limitations, providing additional metabolic, structural, and hemodynamic information for treatment planning and monitoring. Radionuclide imaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography (PET) with amino acid radiopharmaceuticals, are also increasingly used in the workup of primary brain tumors, and their integration in RT planning is being evaluated in specialized centers. This review focuses on the basic principles and clinical results of advanced MRI and PET imaging techniques that have promise as a complement to RT planning of gliomas.
Time to Pregnancy, Obstetrical and Neonatal Outcomes after Breast Cancer: A Study from the Maternity Network for Young Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Labrosse Julie , Lecourt Anne , Hours Alice , Sebbag Clara , Toussaint Aullene , Laas Enora , Coussy Florence , Grandal Beatriz , Dumas Elise , Daoud Eric , Morel Charlotte , Feron Jean-Guillaume , Faron Matthieu , Pierga Jean-Yves , Reyal Fabien , Hamy Anne-Sophie
Published: March 2021

Although an increasing number of young breast cancer (BC) patients have a pregnancy desire after BC, the time necessary to obtain a pregnancy after treatment and subsequent outcomes remain unknown. We aimed to determine the time to evolutive pregnancy in a cohort of BC survivors and subsequent obstetrical and neonatal outcomes. We analyzed BC patients treated at Institut Curie from 2005–2017, aged 18–43 years old (y.o.) at diagnosis having at least one subsequent pregnancy. 133 patients were included, representing 197 pregnancies. Mean age at BC diagnosis was 32.8 y.o. and at pregnancy beginning was 36.8 y.o. 71% pregnancies were planned, 18% unplanned and 86% spontaneous. 64% pregnancies resulted in live birth (n = 131). Median time from BC diagnosis to pregnancy beginning was 48 months and was significantly associated with endocrine therapy (p < 0.001). Median time to pregnancy was 4.3 months. Median time to evolutive pregnancy 5.6 months. In multivariate analysis, menstrual cycles before pregnancy remained significantly associated with time to pregnancy and endocrine therapy with time evolutive to pregnancy. None of the BC treatments (chemotherapy/endocrine therapy/trastuzumab) was significantly associated with obstetrical nor neonatal outcomes, that seemed comparable to global population. Our findings provide reassuring data for pregnancy counseling both in terms of delay and outcome.
Diagnostic, Predictive and Prognostic Molecular Biomarkers in Pancreatic Cancer: An Overview for Clinicians
Authors: Giannis Dimitrios , Moris Dimitrios , Barbas Andrew S.
Published: March 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common pancreatic malignancy and is associated with aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis. Most patients with PDAC present with an advanced disease stage and treatment-resistant tumors. The lack of noninvasive tests for PDAC diagnosis and survival prediction mandates the identification of novel biomarkers. The early identification of high-risk patients and patients with PDAC is of utmost importance. In addition, the identification of molecules that are associated with tumor biology, aggressiveness, and metastatic potential is crucial to predict survival and to provide patients with personalized treatment regimens. In this review, we summarize the current literature and focus on newer biomarkers, which are continuously added to the armamentarium of PDAC screening, predictive tools, and prognostic tools.
Study of Residual Stress Compensation in Continuous Membrane Micromirrors Based on Surface Micromachining Processes
Authors: Wang Qiang , Wang Weimin , Fang Liang , Zhou Chongxi , Fan Bin
Published: March 2021

Residual stress is one of the key factors that directly determines the optical quality of micro-optical devices. With the same residual stress, the larger the aperture is, the worse the optical quality is. Therefore, continuous micromirrors are more affected by residual stress than segmented micromirrors. However, due to the complexity of boundary conditions, the influence of residual stress in segmented micromirror arrays on the device performance has been widely investigated in theory and practical applications, but only a few research results about the influence of residual stress in the continuous micromirror arrays have been reported. In this work, the residual stress both in continuous and segmented micromirror arrays is analyzed and summarized, then an accurate model for continuous micromirrors is developed. Compared with the existing models, it combines two additional factors, layer plate and point supported boundary conditions. Based on the proposed model, the change of critical stress of continuous micromirrors induced by different thicknesses of residual stress compensated membrane is theoretically investigated. Finally, the compensating experiment has been carried out, and the results show that the optical quality of micromirror can be remarkably improved, almost two orders of magnitude, with the introduction of residual stress compensation.
Nonlinear Model Predictive Control of an Autonomous Power System Based on Hydrocarbon Reforming and High Temperature Fuel Cell
Authors: Kafetzis Alexandros , Ziogou Chrysovalantou , Papadopoulou Simira , Voutetakis Spyridon , Seferlis Panos
Published: March 2021

The integration and control of energy systems for power generation consists of multiple heterogeneous subsystems, such as chemical, electrochemical, and thermal, and contains challenges that arise from the multi-way interactions due to complex dynamic responses among the involved subsystems. The main motivation of this work is to design the control system for an autonomous automated and sustainable system that meets a certain power demand profile. A systematic methodology for the integration and control of a hybrid system that converts liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to hydrogen, which is subsequently used to generate electrical power in a high-temperature fuel cell that charges a Li-Ion battery unit, is presented. An advanced nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) framework is implemented to achieve this goal. The operational objective is the satisfaction of power demand while maintaining operation within a safe region and ensuring thermal and chemical balance. The proposed NMPC framework based on experimentally validated models is evaluated through simulation for realistic operation scenarios that involve static and dynamic variations of the power load.
Wood Chip Storage in Small Scale Piles as a Tool to Eliminate Selected Risks
Authors: Gejdoš Miloš , Lieskovský Martin
Published: March 2021

Massive use of wood biomass is usually associated with its long-term, large-scale storage in power plants and heating plants. Long-term storage of wood biomass (more than 3 months), in large volumes, brings risks from the point of view of human health or property treatment. This work aimed to verify how the long-term storage of wood chips from beech wood in small piles affects their energy properties and whether in this way it is possible to reduce the risk of fire by self-heating in piles and the volume of phytopathogenic spore production. Four experimental piles, each with a base of 4 × 4 m and a height of 2 m, were established. After 6 months, one of the piles was disassembled and samples from 0.5 m, 1.0 m, and 1.5 m height levels were taken for analysis. The results of the experiment confirmed that the energy properties of wood chips stored in small piles significantly deteriorate after more than half a year of storage. It has also been confirmed that the choice of this method of storing in smaller, spatially divided piles can lead to a significant minimization of the risk of spontaneous combustion and fire. The length of the storage period did not have a positive effect on the abundance of phytopathogen content in the stored piles. With the length of storage, only the number of identified harmful species of phytopathogens were changed and, at the same time, their number of colonies increased.
Depression as a Function of Social Support in Transgender and Cisgender Individuals with Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Authors: Yousuf Tahira , Naz Mahwish , Roberson Candace B. , Wise Suzanna M. , Rowland David L.
Published: March 2021

This study focused on the relationships among social support, self-esteem, and depression in transgender and cisgender individuals suffering from an incurable or curable sexually transmitted disease. Data were collected from 210 participants with an STI using a semi-structured interview along with culturally adapted standardized instruments. Results indicated no differences between transgender and cisgender groups in depression, although there were large differences in social support and self-esteem. Preliminary regression analysis identified only STI type and duration of STI as significant predictors of depression. However, when moderating roles for both social support and self-esteem were tested, each added to the explained variance and, equally importantly, revealed the effects of both gender status and social support on depression. These findings not only demonstrate how the compound stressors of gender minority status and STI type affect depressive symptoms, but also reveal the critical role that social support can play in mitigating depressive symptoms in those with gender minority status. Findings are interpreted within the context of South/Central Asian cultures that have pre- and post-colonial traditions regarding the social role of non-binary individuals.
Assessing Patient Safety Culture in Hospital Settings
Authors: Azyabi Abdulmajeed , Karwowski Waldemar , Davahli Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2021

The current knowledge about patient safety culture (PSC) in the healthcare industry, as well as the research tools that have been used to evaluate PSC in hospitals, is limited. Such a limitation may hamper current efforts to improve patient safety worldwide. This study provides a systematic review of published research on the perception of PSC in hospitals. The research methods used to survey and evaluate PSC in healthcare settings are also explored. A list of academic databases was searched from 2006 to 2020 to form a comprehensive view of PSC’s current applications. The following research instruments have been applied in the past to assess PSC: the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSPSC), the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ), the Patient Safety Climate in Health Care Organizations (PSCHO), the Modified Stanford Instrument (MSI-2006), and the Scottish Hospital Safety Questionnaire (SHSQ). Some of the most critical factors that impact the PSC are teamwork and organizational and behavioral learning. Reporting errors and safety awareness, gender and demographics, work experience, and staffing levels have also been identified as essential factors. Therefore, these factors will need to be considered in future work to improve PSC. Finally, the results reveal strong evidence of growing interest among individuals in the healthcare industry to assess hospitals’ general patient safety culture.
Socioecological Factors Influencing Sexual Health Experiences and Health Outcomes of Migrant Asian Women Living in ‘Western’ High-Income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gray Corie , Crawford Gemma , Maycock Bruce , Lobo Roanna
Published: March 2021

Migrant health has been identified as one of the most pressing issues of the 21st century. Migration experiences are influenced by gender and gender norms and have important implications for the sexual health of migrant women. This systematic review explored socioecological factors influencing sexual health experiences and health outcomes of migrant Asian women living in “Western” high-income countries. PRISMA guidelines were followed and this study was registered with PROSPERO. Five academic databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles published between 2000 and 2019. Of 2415 studies retrieved, 17 met the selection criteria: 12 qualitative, 4 quantitative, and 1 mixed-methods study. The four levels of Bronfenbrenner’s socioecological model were applied to examine the individual, interpersonal, institutional, and societal factors of influence. Most studies (n = 13) reported individual level factors, focusing on knowledge and use of contraceptives. At a societal level, host country sociocultural factors, including gender and cultural norms, influenced knowledge, ability to access and utilise contraceptives, and access to health services. Findings suggest that the public health policy, practice, and research to improve the sexual health of migrant women requires greater consideration of the intersecting factors of gender, culture, and the migration process.
Neighborhood-Level Lead Paint Hazard for Children under 6: A Tool for Proactive and Equitable Intervention
Authors: Baek Mikyung , Outrich Michael B. , Barnett Kierra S. , Reece Jason
Published: March 2021

Lead is well known for its adverse health effects on children, particularly when exposure occurs at earlier ages. The primary source of lead hazards among young children is paint used in buildings built before 1978. Despite being 100% preventable, some children remain exposed and state and local policies often remain reactive. This study presents a methodology for planners and public health practitioners to proactively address lead risks among young children. Using geospatial analyses, this study examines neighborhood level measurement of lead paint hazard in homes and childcare facilities and the concentration of children aged 0–5. Results highlight areas of potential lead paint hazard hotspots within a county in the Midwestern state studied, which coincides with higher concentration of non-white children. This places lead paint hazard in the context of social determinants of health, where existing disparity in distribution of social and economic resources reinforces health inequity. In addition to being proactive, lead poisoning intervention efforts need to be multi-dimensional and coordinated among multiple parties involved. Identifying children in higher lead paint hazard areas, screening and treating them, and repairing their homes and childcare facilities will require close collaboration of healthcare professionals, local housing and planning authorities, and community members.
Effect of Chronic Resistance Training on Circulating Irisin: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Cosio Pedro L. , Crespo-Posadas Manuel , Velarde-Sotres Álvaro , Pelaez Mireia
Published: March 2021

Irisin seems to play an important role in several chronic diseases, however, the interactions between chronic training and irisin are still unclear. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine the effect of chronic resistance training on circulating irisin in adults. Literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science and EBSCOhost (Academic Search Complete) until December 2020. Randomized controlled trials researching irisin levels after a resistance training program for at least 8 weeks among an adult population were eligible. Other inclusion criteria comprised recruiting a control group and reporting circulating irisin through ELISA kits. Cohen’s d effect size and subgroup analyses (95% confidence level) were calculated using a random effects analysis model. Data of the seven included studies comprising 282 individuals showed an increasing and non-significant tendency after a resistance training program (d = 0.58, 95% CI: −0.25 to 1.40, p = 0.17). Subgroup analyses showed significant increases for the older adults group (p < 0.001) and when training is demanding and progressive in terms of intensity (p = 0.03). Data suggest that resistance training programs seem to increase circulating irisin, especially in older adults and in demanding and progressive training programs. However, more studies should be conducted using robust measurement methods, such as mass spectrometry, to better understand the interaction between chronic resistance exercise and irisin.
Expanding the β-III Spectrin-Associated Phenotypes toward Non-Progressive Congenital Ataxias with Neurodegeneration
Authors: Sancho Paula , Andrés-Bordería Amparo , Gorría-Redondo Nerea , Llano Katia , Martínez-Rubio Dolores , Yoldi-Petri María Eugenia , Blumkin Luba , Rodríguez de la Fuente Pablo , Gil-Ortiz Fernando , Fernández-Murga Leonor , Sánchez-Monteagudo Ana , Lupo Vincenzo , Pérez-Dueñas Belén , Espinós Carmen , Aguilera-Albesa Sergio
Published: March 2021

(1) Background: A non-progressive congenital ataxia (NPCA) phenotype caused by β-III spectrin (SPTBN2) mutations has emerged, mimicking spinocerebellar ataxia, autosomal recessive type 14 (SCAR14). The pattern of inheritance, however, resembles that of autosomal dominant classical spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5). (2) Methods: In-depth phenotyping of two boys studied by a customized gene panel. Candidate variants were sought by structural modeling and protein expression. An extensive review of the literature was conducted in order to better characterize the SPTBN2-associated NPCA. (3) Results: Patients exhibited an NPCA with hypotonia, developmental delay, cerebellar syndrome, and cognitive deficits. Both probands presented with progressive global cerebellar volume loss in consecutive cerebral magnetic resonance imaging studies, characterized by decreasing midsagittal vermis relative diameter measurements. Cortical hyperintensities were observed on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images, suggesting a neurodegenerative process. Each patient carried a novel de novo SPTBN2 substitution: c.193A > G (p.K65E) or c.764A > G (p.D255G). Modeling and protein expression revealed that both mutations might be deleterious. (4) Conclusions: The reported findings contribute to a better understanding of the SPTBN2-associated phenotype. The mutations may preclude proper structural organization of the actin spectrin-based membrane skeleton, which, in turn, is responsible for the underlying disease mechanism.
Survey of MRI Usefulness for the Clinical Assessment of Bone Microstructure
Authors: Soldati Enrico , Rossi Francesca , Vicente Jerome , Guenoun Daphne , Pithioux Martine , Iotti Stefano , Malucelli Emil , Bendahan David
Published: March 2021

Bone microarchitecture has been shown to provide useful information regarding the evaluation of skeleton quality with an added value to areal bone mineral density, which can be used for the diagnosis of several bone diseases. Bone mineral density estimated from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) has shown to be a limited tool to identify patients’ risk stratification and therapy delivery. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been proposed as another technique to assess bone quality and fracture risk by evaluating the bone structure and microarchitecture. To date, MRI is the only completely non-invasive and non-ionizing imaging modality that can assess both cortical and trabecular bone in vivo. In this review article, we reported a survey regarding the clinically relevant information MRI could provide for the assessment of the inner trabecular morphology of different bone segments. The last section will be devoted to the upcoming MRI applications (MR spectroscopy and chemical shift encoding MRI, solid state MRI and quantitative susceptibility mapping), which could provide additional biomarkers for the assessment of bone microarchitecture.
Tracking Light Aircraft with Smartphones at Low Altitudes
Authors: Lilly Benjamin , Cetinkaya Deniz , Durak Umut
Published: March 2021

Most aircraft in the world are tracked by various surveillance radar systems. Currently there is no legal requirement for light aircraft to be fitted with a transponder; however, this does not mean light aircraft should not be tracked. By adding a cheap, live tracking solution for light aircraft, the safety of low-flying aircraft pilots can be greatly increased. The radio operators who coordinate the aircraft can have an improved understanding of the air traffic and in the event of an emergency, the position of the aircraft can be relayed to emergency services. This paper proposes an approach to use a smartphone as an aircraft transponder to improve the radar tracking capabilities of low-flying aircraft. This study presents a practical and effective approach as well as a prototype implementation. The study includes the development of the three main components: (1) A mobile application that transforms a smartphone into an aircraft transponder; exploiting the GPS functionalities, (2) a desktop application that visualizes the aircraft data in real time on a map, and (3) a backend that bridges the mobile and the desktop application. To evaluate the study, flight tests were performed in a real aircraft over the Isle of Wight in the UK.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Survey in Greece before the Implementation of Sterile Insect Technique against Aedes albopictus
Authors: Stefopoulou Angeliki , LaDeau Shannon L. , Syrigou Nefeli , Balatsos George , Karras Vasileios , Lytra Ioanna , Boukouvala Evangelia , Papachristos Dimitrios P. , Milonas Panagiotis G. , Kapranas Apostolos , Vahamidis Petros , Michaelakis Antonios
Published: March 2021

Community involvement in Aedes albopictus management can be very efficient and result in raising awareness among citizens. Toward this end, a door-to-door campaign can encourage active community participation in vector control. The current study describes the results of an intervention where a KAP (knowledge, attitude, practices) survey tool was paired with a door-to-door campaign and was implemented as an intervention method in Vravrona area (Attica, Greece) before the release of sterile males (sterile insect technique, SIT) against Aedes albopictus. The KAP tool was used to shed light on the knowledge, practices, and attitudes of local community members in order to better prepare and motivate participation in household mosquito control and to assess current understanding of SIT. Each household also received specific information about mosquito source habitat in their own yards at the time of the initial KAP survey. These household data were complemented by standardized mosquito trapping in the municipality. Our findings indicate that citizens’ attitude toward SIT ranged from indecisive to fully supportive, while 77.5% of the respondents agreed that the SIT has many advantages over chemical control methods. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that using the door-to-door campaign as an intervention and prerelease method before SIT can suppress the initial mosquito population and potentially improve its efficacy. Lastly, we show that the presence of local municipality officials during door-to-door visits was associated with increased willingness from the residents to participate in the intervention.
Effects of Chemical Insecticide Residues and Household Surface Type on a Beauveria bassiana-Based Biopesticide (Aprehend®) for Bed Bug Management
Authors: Shikano Ikkei , Bellicanta Giovani S. , Principato Simona , Jenkins Nina E.
Published: March 2021

The biopesticide Aprehend, containing spores of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana, is a biological control agent for the management of the common bed bug (Cimex lectularius L.) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae). The spores are applied in strategically placed barriers, which bed bugs walk across as they search for a bloodmeal. Application of chemical insecticides by the general public and professional pest managers is common, which means that Aprehend may be sprayed on existing insecticide residues. We evaluated the effect of chemical residues, of 22 different chemical insecticides on different household surface types. We found that residues from 12 chemical pesticides significantly reduced spore viability measured 5 weeks after application in comparison to the control. However, efficacy of Aprehend, as measured by bed bug mortality and mean survival time after exposure to sprayed surfaces, seven weeks after application was not impacted detrimentally. Furthermore, in some cases, efficacy of old chemical residues was enhanced by the combination of chemical and Aprehend seven weeks after application. Surface type also played a role in the relative efficacy of all products and combinations, particularly as the residues aged.
Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Polymers: Quantitative Research Direction Indices
Authors: Kusoglu Ihsan Murat , Doñate-Buendía Carlos , Barcikowski Stephan , Gökce Bilal
Published: March 2021

Research on Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) of polymer powder feedstocks has raised over the last decade due to the increased utilization of the fabricated parts in aerospace, automotive, electronics, and healthcare applications. A total of 600 Science Citation Indexed articles were published on the topic of L-PBF of polymer powder feedstocks in the last decade, being cited more than 10,000 times leading to an h-index of 46. This study statistically evaluates the 100 most cited articles to extract reported material, process, and as-built part properties to analyze the research trends. PA12, PEEK, and TPU are the most employed polymer powder feedstocks, while size, flowability, and thermal behavior are the standardly reported material properties. Likewise, process properties such as laser power, scanning speed, hatch spacing, powder layer thickness, volumetric energy density, and areal energy density are extracted and evaluated. In addition, material and process properties of the as-built parts such as tensile test, flexural test, and volumetric porosity contents are analyzed. The incorporation of additives is found to be an effective route to enhance mechanical and functional properties. Carbon-based additives are typically employed in applications where mechanical properties are essential. Carbon fibers, Ca-phosphates, and SiO2 are the most reported additives in the evaluated SCI-expanded articles for L-PBF of polymer powder feedstocks. A comprehensive data matrix is extracted from the evaluated SCI-index publications, and a principal component analysis (PCA) is performed to explore correlations between reported material, process, and as-built parts.
Burning Behaviour of Rigid Polyurethane Foams with Histidine and Modified Graphene Oxide
Authors: Sałasińska Kamila , Leszczyńska Milena , Celiński Maciej , Kozikowski Paweł , Kowiorski Krystian , Lipińska Ludwika
Published: March 2021

Since rigid polyurethane (PU) foams are one of the most effective thermal insulation materials with widespread application, it is an urgent requirement to improve its fire retardancy and reduce the smoke emission. The current work assessed the fire behavior of PU foam with non-halogen fire retardants system, containing histidine (H) and modified graphene oxide (GOA). For investigated system, three loadings (10, 20, and 30 wt.%) were used. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis, cone calorimetry (CC) and smoke density chamber tests as well as pre- and post-burning morphological evaluation using scanning electron microscope (SEM) were performed. Moreover, TGA combined with FT-IR was conducted to determine the substances, which could be evolved during the thermal decomposition of the PU with fire retardant system. The results indicated a reduction in heat release rate (HRR), maximum average rate of heat emission (MAHRE), the total heat release (THR) as well as the total smoke release (TSR), and maximum specific optical density (Dsmax) compared to the polyurethane with commercial fire retardant, namely ammonium polyphosphate (APP). A significantly improvement, especially in smoke suppression, suggested that HGOA system may be a candidate as a fire retardant to reduce the flammability of PU foams.
Ameliorating the Adverse Effects of Tomato mosaic tobamovirus Infecting Tomato Plants in Egypt by Boosting Immunity in Tomato Plants Using Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Sofy Ahmed R. , Sofy Mahmoud R. , Hmed Ahmed A. , Dawoud Rehab A. , Alnaggar Abd El-Aleem M. , Soliman Ahmed M. , El-Dougdoug Noha K.
Published: March 2021

Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) is one of the economically damageable Tobamovirus infecting the tomato in Egypt that has caused significant losses. It is therefore of great interest to trigger systemic resistance to ToMV. In this endeavor, we aimed to explore the capacity of ZnO-NPs (zinc oxide nanoparticles) to trigger tomato plant resistance against ToMV. Effects of ZnO-NPs on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth indices and antioxidant defense system activity under ToMV stress were investigated. Noticeably that treatment with ZnO-NPs showed remarkably increased growth indices, photosynthetic attributes, and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants compared to the challenge control. Interestingly, oxidative damage caused by ToMV was reduced by reducing malondialdehyde, H2O2, and O2 levels. Overall, ZnO-NPs offer a safe and economic antiviral agent against ToMV.
Association between Chinese Dietary Guidelines Compliance Index for Pregnant Women and Risks of Pregnancy Complications in the Tongji Maternal and Child Health Cohort
Authors: Ding Ye , Xu Fangping , Zhong Chunrong , Tong Lishu , Li Fang , Li Qian , Chen Renjuan , Zhou Xuezhen , Li Xiating , Cui Wenli , Zhang Yu , Huang Li , Xu Shangzhi , Liu Chaoqun , Wu Jiangyue , Chen Xi , Gao Qin , Yang Nianhong , Wang Zhixu
Published: March 2021

Background: Compliance with dietary guidelines among pregnant women can positively influence not only their own health but also the health of their babies. Measuring the compliance requires professional skills in nutrition and dietary counseling. In China, few simple and effective techniques assess dietary quality among pregnant women, especially in rural areas. We aimed to establish a new simple and effective assessment technique, the “Chinese Dietary Guidelines Compliance Index for Pregnant Women (CDGCI-PW)” and assess the association between maternal dietary compliance and risks of pregnancy complications. Methods: The CDGCI-PW consists of 13 main components which were based on the 2016 edition of the Chinese dietary guidelines for pregnant women. Each component was assigned a different score range, and the overall score ranged from 0 to 100 points. The Tongji Maternal and Child Health Cohort study (from September 2013 to May 2016) was a prospective cohort study designed to examine maternal dietary and lifestyle effects on the health of pregnant women and their offspring. The maternal diet during the second trimester was compared with the corresponding recommended intake of the Chinese balanced dietary pagoda for pregnant women to verify their compliance with dietary guidelines. The association between maternal dietary quality and risks of pregnancy complications was estimated by regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to identify the optimal cut-off values of CDGCI-PW for gestational hypertension and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Results: Among the 2708 pregnant women, 1489 were eventually followed up. The mean CDGCI-PW score was 74.1 (standard deviation (SD) 7.5) in the second trimester. The majority of foods showed the following trend: the higher the CDGCI-PW score, the higher the proportion of pregnant women who reported food intake within the recommended range. Moreover, a higher maternal CDGCI-PW score was significantly associated with lower risks of gestational hypertension [odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval [(CI): 0.30 (0.20, 0.37)] and GDM [OR (95% CI): 0.38 (0.31, 0.48)]. The optimal CDGCI-PW cut-off value for gestational hypertension was ≥68.5 (sensitivity 82%; specificity: 61%; area under the ROC curve, AUC = 0.743), and the optimal CDGCI-PW cut-off score for GDM was ≥75.5 (sensitivity 43%; specificity: 81%; area under the ROC curve, AUC = 0.714). Conclusions: The CDGCI-PW is a simple and useful technique that assesses maternal diet quality during pregnancy, while adherence to the CDGCI-PW is associated with a lower risk of gestational hypertension and GDM.
Coxiella burnetii Shedding in Milk and Molecular Typing of Strains Infecting Dairy Cows in Greece
Authors: Kalaitzakis Emmanouil , Fancello Tiziano , Simons Xavier , Chaligiannis Ilias , Tomaiuolo Sara , Andreopoulou Marianna , Petrone Debora , Papapostolou Aikaterini , Giadinis Nektarios D. , Panousis Nikolaos , Mori Marcella
Published: March 2021

Ruminants are considered the commonest animal reservoir for human infection of Coxiella burnetii, the Q fever causative agent. Considering the recently described importance of human Q fever in Greece, we aimed at providing the first comprehensive direct evidence of C. burnetii in dairy cows in Greece, including the genetic characterization of strains. The 462 examined dairy farms represented all geographical areas of Greece. One bulk tank milk sample was collected from every farm and tested for the presence of C. burnetii. Molecular genotyping of strains, performed directly on samples, revealed the existence of two separate clades characterized by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes of type 1 and type 2. The two clades were clearly distinguished in multiple locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) by two discriminative loci: MS30 and MS28. Whereas MLVA profiles of SNP-type 2 clade were closely related to strains described in other European cattle populations, the MLVA profile observed within the SNP type 1 clade highlighted a peculiar genetic signature for Greece, related to genotypes found in sheep and goats in Europe. The shedding of C. burnetii bearing this genotype might have yet undefined human epidemiological consequences. Surveillance of the genetic distribution of C. burnetii from different sources is needed to fully understand the epidemiology of Q fever in Greece.
Long Term Exposure to Virgin and Recycled LDPE Microplastics Induced Minor Effects in the Freshwater and Terrestrial Crustaceans Daphnia magna and Porcellio scaber
Authors: Jemec Kokalj Anita , Dolar Andraž , Titova Jelizaveta , Visnapuu Meeri , Škrlep Luka , Drobne Damjana , Vija Heiki , Kisand Vambola , Heinlaan Margit
Published: March 2021

The effects of microplastics (MP) are extensively studied, yet hazard data from long-term exposure studies are scarce. Moreover, for sustainable circular use in the future, knowledge on the biological impact of recycled plastics is essential. The aim of this study was to provide long-term toxicity data of virgin vs recycled (mechanical recycling) low density polyethylene (LDPE) for two commonly used ecotoxicity models, the freshwater crustacean Daphnia magna and the terrestrial crustacean Porcellio scaber. LDPE MP was tested as fragments of 39.8 ± 8.82 µm (virgin) and 205 ± 144 µm (recycled) at chronic exposure levels of 1–100 mg LDPE/L (D. magna) and 0.2–15 g LDPE/kg soil (P. scaber). Mortality, reproduction, body length, total lipid content, feeding and immune response were evaluated. With the exception of very low inconsistent offspring mortality at 10 mg/L and 100 mg/L of recycled LDPE, no MP exposure-related adverse effects were recorded for D. magna. For P. scaber, increased feeding on non-contaminated leaves was observed for virgin LDPE at 5 g/kg and 15 g/kg. In addition, both LDPE induced a slight immune response at 5 g/kg and 15 g/kg with more parameters altered for virgin LDPE. Our results indicated different sublethal responses upon exposure to recycled compared to virgin LDPE MP.
Biomechanical Analysis in Five Bar Linkage Prototype Machine of Gait Training and Rehabilitation by IMU Sensor and Electromyography
Authors: Seo Jeong-Woo , Kim Hyeong-Sic
Published: March 2021

The prototype machine of gait training and rehabilitation (MGTR) with a five-bar linkage structure was designed to improve the common end-effector type. Additionally, the study was conducted to evaluate the joint angle and muscle activity during walking for the evaluation of prototype: (1) Background: The gait rehabilitation systems are largely divided into exoskeletal type and end-effector type. The end-effector type can be improved a gait trajectory similar to normal gait according to this prototype. Therefore, a new design of prototype MGTR is proposed in this study. (2) Methods: The gait experience was conducted with thirteen healthy male subjects using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor and electromyography (EMG). It was compared that the hip and knee joints and the muscle activity between the normal gait and MGTR. (3) Results: The results showed that there was a high correlation between the knee joint angle for normal gait and MGTR. The range of motion (RoM) was small for the MGTR. The EMG results showed that the activation of the rectus femoris muscle was most similar to the normal gait and MGTR. (4) Conclusions: The characteristics of the kinematic variables of the subjects varied widely. It is necessary to modify the machine so that the link length can be adjusted in consideration of various segment lengths of patients.
Man Down Situation Detection Using an in-Ear Inertial Platform
Authors: Guilbeault-Sauvé Alex , De Kelper Bruno , Voix Jérémie
Published: March 2021

Man down situations (MDS) are a health or life threatening situations occurring largely in high-risk industrial workplaces. MDS automatic detection is crucial for workers safety especially in isolated working conditions where workers could be unable to call for help on their own, either due to loss of consciousness or an incapacitating injury. These solution must be reliable, robust, easy to use, but also have a low false-alarm rate, short response time and good ergonomics. This project aims to improve this technology by providing a global MDS definition according to a combination of three observable critical states based on characterization of body movement and orientation data from inertial measurements (accelerometer and gyroscope): the worker falls (F), worker immobility (I), the worker is down on the ground (D). The MDS detection strategy was established based on the detection of at least two distinct states, such as F-I, F-D or I-D, over a certain period of time. This strategy was tested using a large public database, revealing a significant reduction of the false alarms rate to 1.1%, reaching up to 99% accuracy. The proposed detection strategy was also incorporated into a digital earpiece, designed to address hearing protection issues, and validated according to an in vivo test procedure based on simulations of industrial workers normal activities and critical states.
Building Bridges: A Participatory Stakeholder Framework for Sustainable Urban Construction Logistics
Authors: Brusselaers Nicolas , Mommens Koen , Macharis Cathy
Published: March 2021

The urban built environment concentrates due to the growing urbanization trend, triggering construction and renovation works in urban areas. Although construction works often revitalize cities upon completion, the associated logistics activities engender a significant financial and environmental footprint if not handled appropriately. Cities have the largest potential to reduce negative impacts through requirements on construction logistics. However, today, there is a lack of knowledge within cities on how to set such demands and how to involve and manage the numerous and varying stakeholders in these processes. This paper presents a participatory decision-making framework for the governance of urban construction logistics on economic, environmental and societal levels, building further on the Multi-Actor Multi-Criteria Analysis (MAMCA). The framework was then implemented on a use case in the dense urban Brussels-Capital Region (Belgium), gathering a wide variety of stakeholders in the context of a sustainable Construction Logistics Scenario (CLS) evaluation. Special attention was paid on the identification of implementation barriers and the role of governments to facilitate the introduction and city-wide roll-out of novel CLS. Findings show how different processes are site-, actor- and condition-specific, thereby delivering a common built object which is often based on different motivations and concerns. The study proposes a flexible, replicable and upscalable framework both from an inter- and intracity perspective, which can serve to support (1) the management of processes and CLS, (2) the management of people and the community, and (3) the project and city, in the context of multi-level governance.
Research on Spatial Correlation Characteristics and Their Spatial Spillover Effect of Local Government Debt Risks in China
Authors: Li Xing , Ge Xiangyu , Fan Wei , Zheng Hao
Published: March 2021

Scholars have proposed a series of methods, such as “sustainability of local government debt”, to measure local government debt risks. However, these methods have caused a lot of controversy. Based on a macro balance sheet, this study uses an improved “distance to distress” to measure China’s local government debt risks and applies a social network model to identify the spatial correlation characteristics, as well as the spillover effect. The results are as follows: (1) The data show multiple and heterogeneous spatial correlations for China’s local government debt risks; (2) there are some similarities between the subgroups and seven major geographic regions in China. The links among subgroups are randomly distributed and external; (3) the data manifest a “small world”, with a decreasing transitivity since 2014; (4) between these two significant factors, the positive impact of local government competition is more obvious than the division of powers and responsibilities; and (5) the spatial spillover effect of China’s local government debt risks results from the combination of local government competition, the division of powers and responsibilities, and local government intervention. This paper provides a scientific basis for obtaining a deeper understanding of China’s local government debt risks, and puts forward policy recommendations to strengthen China’s debt management.
Sustainability as a Goal in Teaching Workforce Retention: Exploring the Role of Teacher Identity Construction in Preservice Teachers’ Job Motivation
Authors: Wang Di , Zhang Lawrence Jun
Published: March 2021

With the rapid increase in the number of students learning Chinese as a second or foreign language (CSL/CFL), there is a great demand for Chinese language teachers. Although many teacher preparation programmes have been established, only a few graduates from these programmes enter the profession of Chinese language teaching. This has caused instability of the teaching team and has threatened the sustainability of Chinese language education. To explore the reasons why graduates leave this area and the role of professional identity construction in preservice Chinese teachers’ job motivation, this longitudinal qualitative study investigates the job motivation of three student-teachers as a goal of sustainability in teaching force retention. This study was conducted during the participating teachers’ teaching practicum as part of a master’s degree programme in China. By interviewing the three participants and analysing their self-reflective journals, we found that their job motivations changed considerably during the course of their training. Indeed, their professional identity construction did not determine their career choice. Extrinsic factors, such as income and permanent residence, seemed to significantly affect their motivation of entering the profession. Such findings are important, as they help us gain a better understanding of why preservice CSL/CFL teachers choose other careers upon completing teacher education. These results are especially pertinent to those working in Chinese contexts.
Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Indoor Air Quality and Thermal Comfort of Primary Schools in Winter in a Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Alonso Alicia , Llanos Jesús , Escandón Rocío , Sendra Juan J.
Published: March 2021

Research studies have shown the potential effects of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) on pupils’ health and academic performance. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted renewed interest in the assessment of deficient indoor air quality (IAQ) conditions in schools and has become a priority over achieving adequate comfort conditions. Scientific studies confirm aerosols as one of the transmission routes of SARS-CoV-2 so that the possibility of airborne transmission increases in indoor environments with high occupancy, such as classrooms. As a result, international protocols and guidelines have established a requirement for educational buildings to over-ventilate with a fresh outdoor air supply. The main object of this work is to analyse the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on thermal comfort and indoor air quality, in winter, in two classrooms of southern Spain. Thus, onsite measurements of environmental variables were conducted before and during the pandemic. Both classrooms have mechanical ventilation systems as they are within a recently built primary school (2018). Results shows a decrease of 300 ppm in CO2 weekly average values during the pandemic, when hybrid ventilation is used, and a decrease of 400 ppm when schools are naturally ventilated during all teaching hours. However, the analysis of standards shows that over 60% of hours are thermal discomfort conditions.
Empirical Characterization Factors for Life Cycle Assessment of the Impacts of Reservoir Occupation on Macroinvertebrate Richness across the United States
Authors: Trottier Gabrielle , Turgeon Katrine , Verones Francesca , Boisclair Daniel , Bulle Cécile , Margni Manuele
Published: March 2021

The transformation of a river into a reservoir and the subsequent occupation of the riverbed by a reservoir can impact freshwater ecosystems and their biodiversity. We used the National Lake Assessment (134 reservoirs) and the National Rivers and Streams Assessment (2062 rivers and streams) of the United States Environmental Protection Agency in order to develop empirical characterization factors (CFs; in Potentially Disappeared Fraction of species [PDF]) evaluating the impacts of reservoir occupation on macroinvertebrate richness (number of taxa) at the reservoir, ecoregion and country spatial scales, using a space-for-time substitution. We used analyses of variance, variation partitioning, and multiple regression analysis to explain the role of ecoregion (or regionalization; accounting for spatial variability) and other potentially influential variables (physical, chemical and human), on PDFs. At the United States scale, 28% of macroinvertebrate taxa disappeared during reservoir occupation and PDFs followed a longitudinal gradient across ecoregions, where PDFs were higher in the west. We also observed that high elevation, oligotrophic and large reservoirs had high PDF. This study provides the first empirical macroinvertebrate-based PDFs for reservoir occupation to be used as CFs by LCA practitioners. The results provide strong support for regionalization and a simple empirical model for LCA modelers.