bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Machine Learning Techniques in Analog Integrated Circuit Design Automation
Authors: Mina Rayan , Jabbour Chadi , Sakr George E.
Published: January 2022

Analog integrated circuit design is widely considered a time-consuming task due to the acute dependence of analog performance on the transistors’ and passives’ dimensions. An important research effort has been conducted in the past decade to reduce the front-end design cycles of analog circuits by means of various automation approaches. On the other hand, the significant progress in high-performance computing hardware has made machine learning an attractive and accessible solution for everyone. The objectives of this paper were: (1) to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing state-of-the-art machine learning techniques used in analog circuit sizing and analyze their effectiveness in achieving the desired goals; (2) to point out the remaining open challenges, as well as the most relevant research directions to be explored. Finally, the different analog circuits on which machine learning techniques were applied are also presented and their results discussed from a circuit designer perspective.
Channel-Quality-Evaluation-Based Anchor Node Selection for UWB Indoor Positioning
Authors: Chen Chunxue , Huang Zheng , Wang Jiayu , Yuan Lei , Bao Jun , Chen Zhuming
Published: January 2022

Ultra-wideband (UWB) is a widely used technology in wireless indoor positioning. However, Non-line-of-sight (NLOS) and complex multipath fading introduce positioning errors to the UWB system. In order to alleviate the influence of non-line-of-sight (NLOS) and multipath fading, a channel-quality-evaluation-based method is proposed in this paper. In the proposed method, the qualities of the channel between unknown nodes and anchor nodes are evaluated by a weighted equation related to the channel impulse response (CIR) characteristics. Anchor nodes with higher quality are selected adaptively for positioning. The experiments showed that this method can reduce the root-mean-squared error (RMSE) of the positioning results by 40.4% on average and 95.78% in some strongly degraded cases.
Improvement of Contact Force Calculation Model Considering Influence of Yield Strength on Coefficient of Restitution
Authors: Liu Xichun , Chen Wei , Shi Hu
Published: January 2022

Aiming at the problem that the current coefficient of restitution model cannot effectively predict energy dissipation in the multi-body system collision process, a coefficient of restitution model considering the yield strength is proposed in this article. As an important parameter for energy loss and material deformation prediction during collision, the coefficient of restitution has an important influence on the accurate calculation of contact force. The current main coefficient of restitution models are compared and analyzed in this article. In view of the large difference between the results obtained by different models on the same parameter, through the use of ANSYS/LS–DYNA for dynamic simulation, the influence of different yield strengths on the coefficient of restitution is studied. Then, the article establishes a new coefficient of restitution model considering the yield strength combined with the J–G model, and verifies the effectiveness of the model in the article using experimental results. At the same time, the article compares the new coefficient of restitution model with the constant coefficient of restitution model, and further studies the effect of the coefficient of restitution on the dynamic results.
Heat Transfer Potential of Unidirectional Porous Tubes for Gas Cooling under High Heat Flux Conditions
Authors: Yuki Kazuhisa , Kibushi Risako , Kubota Ryohei , Unno Noriyuki , Tanaka Shigeru , Hokamoto Kazuyuki
Published: January 2022

To discuss a suitable porous structure for helium gas cooling under high heat flux conditions of a nuclear fusion divertor, we first evaluate effective thermal conductivity of sintered copper-particles in a simple cubic lattice by direct numerical heat-conduction simulation. The simulation reveals that the effective thermal conductivity of the sintered copper-particle highly depends on the contacting state of each particle, which leads to the difficulty for the thermal design. To cope with this difficulty, we newly propose utilization of a unidirectional porous tube formed by explosive compression technology. Quantitative prediction of its cooling potential using the heat transfer correlation equation demonstrates that the heat transfer coefficient of the helium gas cooling at the pressure of 10 MPa exceeds 30,000 W/m2/K at the inlet flow velocity of 25 m/s, which verifies that the unidirectional porous copper tubes can be a candidate for the gas-cooled divertor concept.
Numerical Study on Pool Film Boiling of Liquid Hydrogen over Horizontal Cylinders
Authors: Wang Jiaojiao , Li Yanzhong , Wang Lei
Published: January 2022

Due to the low boiling point of hydrogen, the boiling phenomenon is usually encountered in the applications of liquid hydrogen. The underlying mechanism as well as the physical performance of film boiling over horizontal cylinders are not yet fully understood, especially for the various diameters. In this paper, pool film boiling of hydrogen over horizontal cylinders with diameters ranging from 0.2 to 30 mm is investigated based on the volume-of-fluid method. By the analysis of the gas–liquid interface evolution and the heat transfer mechanism, the cylinders are divided into wire heaters, transition heaters, and tube heaters. The results show that the heat transfer of the wire is affected by the evolution of a single bubble, while the heat transfer of the tube is mainly affected by the movement of multiple crescent-shaped gas structures along the surface. Besides, with the increase in cylinder diameter, the bubble detachment diameter increases, the heat flux decreases correspondingly, and the bubble growth period experiences a complicated principle.
Evaluation of the Factors Influencing Residual Oil Evolution after Alkali/Surfactant/Polymer Flooding in Daqing Oilfield
Authors: Nie Chunlin , Wu Xiaolin , Hou Zhaowei , Li Junjian , Jiang Hanqiao
Published: January 2022

The alkali/surfactant/polymer (ASP) flood has long been considered to reduce residual oil saturation significantly after waterflood. This paper provides an experimental investigation of the factors (permeability, pore structure, ASP formula, injection volume, viscosity, and injection volume) that influence the evolution of residual oil after ASP flooding. ASP flood experiments were conducted on the cores drilled in Daqing field, and two-dimensional real-structure micromodels were constructed based on these cores. For the ASP core flood experiments, X-ray computed tomography imaging was used for the visualization of the residual oil evolution. For the ASP micromodel flood experiments, images of the residual oil distribution were obtained using a microscope with a 5× magnification objective. The results showed that as water saturation increased during the flood, the proportion of oil clusters decreased, and the proportion of oil droplets first increased and then decreased. For the cores with smaller pore throats and more complex pore structure, the residual oil became more scattered. In this case, the oil clusters became smaller, and oil droplets became easier to retain. An increased injection rate improved the emulsification, resulting in more residual oil in small pores getting replaced. Increasing the viscosity by increasing the polymer concentration improved the sweep efficiency, mainly because residual oil in large pore throats was displaced, but had a negative impact on emulsification. Increasing the viscosity of the injection fluid was shown to have a negative impact on improving the oil recovery ratio, because the mobilization of residual oil in smaller pores was greatly impacted by emulsification. The effect of increasing injection volume on improving recovery was more pronounced for cores with lower permeability.
Biotechnology and Cytotherapeutics: The Swiss Progenitor-Cell Transplantation Program
Authors: Laurent Alexis , Scaletta Corinne , Abdel-Sayed Philippe , Michetti Murielle , de Buys Roessingh Anthony , Raffoul Wassim , Hirt-Burri Nathalie , Applegate Lee Ann
Published: January 2022

Historically, primary human progenitor cells (e.g., WI-38 and MRC-5 diploid-cell sources) have been industrially applied in research and in manufacturing processes for vaccines and for biologicals. Furthermore, tissue-specific primary progenitor-cell banks have recently been developed and exploited for the provision of safe, consistent, and effective cellular active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) in homologous allogeneic regenerative medicine applications. Notably, the modern legal and regulatory frameworks for novel therapeutic products and for progenitor-cell therapy development have been iteratively optimized to guarantee utmost product safety, quality, and efficacy. Over 50 years of global technical hindsight around progenitor-cell biotechnological substrates and over 30 years of in-house clinical experience around the therapeutic uses of standardized progenitor-cell sources in Switzerland have demonstrated the importance of such biological materials for public health. The aim of this entry work was to summarize the evolution of the industrial applications of selected primary progenitor-cell sources, ranging from the use as robust biotechnological substrates to standardized cellular API manufacture and their clinical uses in highly specialized regenerative medicine.
Role of Egg Parasitoids in Controlling the Pine Processionary Moth in the Cedar Forests of Chréa National Park (Algeria)
Authors: Sebti Safia , Bonifácio Luís , Chakali Gahdab
Published: January 2022

The sustainable protection of cedar stands in Chréa National Park can only be accomplished through the stability of the ecosystem. Outbreaks of Thaumetopoea pityocampa are a major threat and are largely attributed to the high population fecundity, changes in the diversity of natural enemies and global interactions within the ecosystem. Egg parasitoids (Hymenoptera) are essential in the biological control of T. pityocampa. To assess the impact of the parasitoids on the populations of the pine processionary moth, egg masses from cedar plantations were collected, reared in a laboratory and checked regularly for the emergence of the egg parasitoids: Trichogramma embryophagum, Baryscapus servadeii and Ooencyrtus pityocampa. Observations showed an inter-annual variation in the abundance of the three parasitoids as a result of the variation in the population density of the processionary moth, and on the underlying effect of temperature. Parasitoids had variable parasitism rates, with yearly averages ranging from 3.86% to 51.14%, dependent on the spatiotemporal distribution of the host populations. The aggregate effect of multiple parasitoid species could optimize control of T. pityocampa in cedar stands.
The Centre–Periphery Model, a Possible Explanation for the Distribution of Some Pinus spp. in the Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico
Authors: Ramírez-Orozco Claudia Lizbeth , Hernández-Díaz José Ciro , Carrillo-Parra Artemio , Wehenkel Christian , Quiñones-Pérez Carmen Zulema , López-Sánchez Carlos A. , Bailón-Soto Claudia Edith
Published: January 2022

Genetic diversity is key to survival of species. In evolutionary ecology, the general centre–periphery theory suggests that populations of species located at the margins of their distribution areas display less genetic diversity and greater genetic differentiation than populations from central areas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity and differentiation in six of the main pine species of the Sierra Madre Occidental (northern Mexico). The species considered were Pinus arizonica, P. cembroides, P. durangensis, Pinus engelmannii, P. herrerae and P. leiophylla, which occur at the margins and centre of the geographic distribution. We sampled needles from 2799 individuals belonging to 80 populations of the six species. We analysed amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs) to estimate diversity and rarity indexes, applied Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA), and used the Kruskal–Wallis test to detect genetic differences. Finally, we calculated Spearman’s correlation for association between variables. The general centre–periphery model only explained the traits in P. herrerae. The elevation gradient was an important factor that influenced genetic diversity. However, for elevation as partitioning criterion, most populations showed a central distribution. This information may be useful for establishing seed collections of priority individuals for maintenance in germplasm banks and their subsequent sustainable use.
Modeling Potential Changes in Rare Species Habitat from Planned Timber Harvest in Minnesota, USA
Authors: Gifford Tyler S. , Zobel John M. , Shartell Lindsey M.
Published: January 2022

In 2018, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conducted the Sustainable Timber Harvest Analysis that resulted in the 10-year Stand Exam List (SEL). The SEL includes stands that will be assessed for potential management action from 2021 to 2030, but the location, number, and impact of stands actually harvested remains unknown. This study sought to use modeling to assess potential habitat changes from the SEL for five threatened, endangered, or special concern wildlife species. Three simulation scenarios captured the potential range of harvest from the SEL, and the Wildlife Habitat Indicator for Native Genera and Species model assessed associated habitat changes. The most realistic simulation scenario resulted in statistically insignificant habitat changes of less than ±6%, while two scenarios providing the upper and lower extremes of harvest resulted in statistically significant changes for one species each. Scenarios that resulted in less harvest and more mature forests benefited the five species, reflecting their habitat preferences. The tempering of habitat change values in the most realistic simulation scenario provides evidence for forest management tradeoffs between different wildlife species habitat requirements, as well as other forest resource management objectives.
Controlling the Trade-Off between Resource Efficiency and User Satisfaction in NDNs Based on Naïve Bayes Data Classification and Lagrange Method
Authors: Herouala Abdelkader Tayeb , Kerrache Chaker Abdelaziz , Ziani Benameur , Calafate Carlos T. , Lagraa Nasreddine , Tahari Abdou el Karim
Published: January 2022

This paper addresses the fundamental problem of the trade-off between resource efficiency and user satisfaction in the limited environments of Named Data Networks (NDNs). The proposed strategy is named RADC (Resource Allocation based Data Classification), which aims at managing such trade-off by controlling the system’s fairness index. To this end, a machine learning technique based on Multinomial Naïve Bayes is used to classify the received contents. Then, an adaptive resource allocation strategy based on the Lagrange utility function is proposed. To cache the received content, an adequate content placement and a replacement mechanism are enforced. Simulation at the system level shows that this strategy could be a powerful tool for administrators to manage the trade-off between efficiency and user satisfaction.
The Build-Up of Population Genetic Divergence along the Speciation Continuum during a Recent Adaptive Radiation of Rhagoletis Flies
Authors: Powell Thomas H. Q. , Hood Glen Ray , Doellman Meredith M. , Deneen Pheobe M. , Smith James J. , Berlocher Stewart H. , Feder Jeffrey L.
Published: January 2022

New species form through the evolution of genetic barriers to gene flow between previously interbreeding populations. The understanding of how speciation proceeds is hampered by our inability to follow cases of incipient speciation through time. Comparative approaches examining different diverging taxa may offer limited inferences, unless they fulfill criteria that make the comparisons relevant. Here, we test for those criteria in a recent adaptive radiation of the Rhagoletis pomonella species group (RPSG) hypothesized to have diverged in sympatry via adaptation to different host fruits. We use a large-scale population genetic survey of 1568 flies across 33 populations to: (1) detect on-going hybridization, (2) determine whether the RPSG is derived from the same proximate ancestor, and (3) examine patterns of clustering and differentiation among sympatric populations. We find that divergence of each in-group RPSG taxon is occurring under current gene flow, that the derived members are nested within the large pool of genetic variation present in hawthorn-infesting populations of R. pomonella, and that sympatric population pairs differ markedly in their degree of genotypic clustering and differentiation across loci. We conclude that the RPSG provides a particularly robust opportunity to make direct comparisons to test hypotheses about how ecological speciation proceeds despite on-going gene flow.
Expanding Phenotype of Poirier–Bienvenu Syndrome: New Evidence from an Italian Multicentrical Cohort of Patients
Authors: Orsini Alessandro , Santangelo Andrea , Bravin Francesca , Bonuccelli Alice , Peroni Diego , Battini Roberta , Foiadelli Thomas , Bertini Veronica , Valetto Angelo , Iacomino Michele , Nigro Vincenzo , Torella Anna Laura , Scala Marcello , Capra Valeria , Vari Maria Stella , Fetta Anna , Di Pisa Veronica , Montanari Francesca , Epifanio Roberta , Bonanni Paolo , Giorda Roberto , Operto Francesca , Pastorino Grazia , Sarigecili Esra , Sardaroglu Esra , Okuyaz Cetin , Bozdogan Sevgan , Musante Luciana , Faletra Flavio , Zanus Caterina , Ferretti Alessandro , Vigevano Federico , Striano Pasquale , Cordelli Duccio Maria
Published: January 2022

Background: Poirier–Bienvenu Neurodevelopmental Syndrome (POBINDS) is a rare disease linked to mutations of the CSNK2B gene, which encodes for a subunit of caseinkinase CK2 involved in neuronal growth and synaptic transmission. Its main features include early-onset epilepsy and intellectual disability. Despite the lack of cases described, it appears that POBINDS could manifest with a wide range of phenotypes, possibly related to the different mutations of CSNK2B. Methods: Our multicentric, retrospective study recruited nine patients with POBINDS, detected using next-generation sequencing panels and whole-exome sequencing. Clinical, laboratory, and neuroimaging data were reported for each patient in order to assess the severity of phenotype, and eventually, a correlation with the type of CSNK2B mutation. Results: We reported nine unrelated patients with heterozygous de novo mutations of the CSNK2B gene. All cases presented epilepsy, and eight patients were associated with a different degree of intellectual disability. Other features detected included endocrinological and vascular abnormalities and dysmorphisms. Genetic analysis revealed six new variants of CSNK2B that have not been reported previously. Conclusion: Although it was not possible to assess a genotype–phenotype correlation in our patients, our research further expands the phenotype spectrum of POBINDS patients, identifying new mutations occurring in the CSNK2B gene.
Subcellular Dynamics of a Conserved Bacterial Polar Scaffold Protein
Authors: Giacomelli Giacomo , Feddersen Helge , Peng Feng , Martins Gustavo Benevides , Grafemeyer Manuela , Meyer Fabian , Mayer Benjamin , Graumann Peter L. , Bramkamp Marc
Published: January 2022

In order to survive, bacterial cells rely on precise spatiotemporal organization and coordination of essential processes such as cell growth, chromosome segregation, and cell division. Given the general lack of organelles, most bacteria are forced to depend on alternative localization mechanisms, such as, for example, geometrical cues. DivIVA proteins are widely distributed in mainly Gram-positive bacteria and were shown to bind the membrane, typically in regions of strong negative curvature, such as the cell poles and division septa. Here, they have been shown to be involved in a multitude of processes: from apical cell growth and chromosome segregation in actinobacteria to sporulation and inhibition of division re-initiation in firmicutes. Structural analyses revealed that DivIVA proteins can form oligomeric assemblies that constitute a scaffold for recruitment of other proteins. However, it remained unclear whether interaction with partner proteins influences DivIVA dynamics. Using structured illumination microscopy (SIM), single-particle tracking (SPT) microscopy, and fluorescent recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) experiments, we show that DivIVA from Corynebacterium glutamicum is mobilized by its binding partner ParB. In contrast, we show that the interaction between Bacillus subtilis DivIVA and its partner protein MinJ reduces DivIVA mobility. Furthermore, we show that the loss of the rod-shape leads to an increase in DivIVA dynamics in both organisms. Taken together, our study reveals the modulation of the polar scaffold protein by protein interactors and cell morphology. We reason that this leads to a very simple, yet robust way for actinobacteria to maintain polar growth and their rod-shape. In B. subtilis, however, the DivIVA protein is tailored towards a more dynamic function that allows quick relocalization from poles to septa upon division.
Functional Validation of Osteoporosis Genetic Findings Using Small Fish Models
Authors: Kague Erika , Karasik David
Published: January 2022

The advancement of human genomics has revolutionized our understanding of the genetic architecture of many skeletal diseases, including osteoporosis. However, interpreting results from human association studies remains a challenge, since index variants often reside in non-coding regions of the genome and do not possess an obvious regulatory function. To bridge the gap between genetic association and causality, a systematic functional investigation is necessary, such as the one offered by animal models. These models enable us to identify causal mechanisms, clarify the underlying biology, and apply interventions. Over the past several decades, small teleost fishes, mostly zebrafish and medaka, have emerged as powerful systems for modeling the genetics of human diseases. Due to their amenability to genetic intervention and the highly conserved genetic and physiological features, fish have become indispensable for skeletal genomic studies. The goal of this review is to summarize the evidence supporting the utility of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) for accelerating our understanding of human skeletal genomics and outlining the remaining gaps in knowledge. We provide an overview of zebrafish skeletal morphophysiology and gene homology, shedding light on the advantages of human skeletal genomic exploration and validation. Knowledge of the biology underlying osteoporosis through animal models will lead to the translation into new, better and more effective therapeutic approaches.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Root Restriction Effects on the Primary Metabolites during Grape Berry Development and Ripening
Authors: Leng Feng , Wang Yue , Cao Jinping , Wang Shiping , Wu Di , Jiang Ling , Li Xian , Bao Jinsong , Karim Naymul , Sun Chongde
Published: January 2022

Root restriction (RR) has been reported to enhance grape berry quality in diverse aspects of grape life. In this study, RR-induced increases in the main primary metabolites in the grape berry and the expression of their related genes were studied at different developmental stages. Mainly the transcriptomic and metabolomic level were analyzed using ‘Summer Black’ grape berry as a material. The main results were as follows: A total of 11 transcripts involved in the primary metabolic pathways were significantly changed by the RR treatment. Metabolites such as sugars, organic acids, amino acids, starch, pectin, and cellulose were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed along with their metabolic pathways. Sucrose synthase (VIT_07s0005g00750, VIT_11s0016g00470) and sucrose phosphate synthase (VIT_18s0089g00410) were inferred to play critical roles in the accumulation of starch, sucrose, glucose, and fructose, which was induced by the RR treatment. RR treatment also promoted the malic acid and tartaric acid accumulation in the young berry. In addition, the grape berries after the RR treatment tended to have lower pectin and cellulose content.
MiR-612, miR-637, and miR-874 can Regulate VEGFA Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: Castanhole-Nunes Márcia Maria U. , Tunissiolli Nathalia M. , Oliveira André R. C. P. , Mattos Marlon F. , Galbiatti-Dias Ana Lívia S. , Kawasaki-Oyama Rosa S. , Pavarino Erika C. , da Silva Renato F. , Goloni-Bertollo Eny M.
Published: January 2022

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNA molecules acting as important posttranscriptional gene and protein expression regulators in cancer. The study goal was to examine VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A) expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines upon transfection miR-612, miR-637, or miR-874. Methods: MiR-612 mimics, miR-637 mimics, or miR-874 inhibitors were transfected using Lipofectamine RNAiMax in both HCC cell lines, HepG2 and HuH-7. Real-time PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA methods were used to evaluate VEGFA regulation by the miRNAs. Results: Gene and protein expression levels of VEGFA were down-expressed in both cell lines, HepG2 and HuH-7, transfected with miR-612 or miR-637. Transfection with miR-874 inhibitor showed an increase in VEGFA gene expression in HepG2 and HuH-7 cell lines; however, no regulation was observed on VEGFA protein expression by miR-874 inhibition. Correlation analysis between miRNAs and VEGFA protein expression showed that miR-637 and miR-874 expression present inversely correlated to VEGFA protein expression. Conclusions: VEGFA was down-regulated in response to hsa-miR-612 or hsa-miR-637 overexpression; however, the modulation of VEGFA by miR-874 was observed only at the gene expression and thus, needs further investigation.
Behavioral Activation System and Early Life Parental Abuse Are Associated with Antisocial Behaviors in Mexican Adolescents
Authors: Espinoza-Romero Jennifer Lizeth , Frías-Armenta Martha , Lucas Marc Yancy , Corral-Frías Nadia Sarai
Published: January 2022

Antisocial behavior (AB) is a complex phenomenon, predicted by a wide range of biological, environmental, and personality factors. These have high human and economic costs especially in adolescents, highlighting the importance of investigating factors that may be associated with these behaviors. Among the most potent predictors of AB are early life experiences and personality. To this end, the present study sought to investigate the association between early life parental abuse and behavioral activation system (BAS) personality traits assessed within the reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST) framework and antisocial behaviors in Mexican adolescents. Our sample consisted of 342 adolescents (Mage = 17, SD = 2.47) from northwestern Mexico. Participants, after parental consent and participant consent/assent (if minors), self-reported early life parental abuse, current BAS personality traits, and antisocial behaviors. Through structural equation models, our results suggest there is a positive association between early life parental abuse and antisocial behaviors, as well as a negative association with BAS personality traits (R2 = 37%). These results contribute to the current literature by suggesting that personality and environmental variables can predict adolescent antisocial behaviors. Future studies should explore the interplay between these variables longitudinally and investigate both risk and protective factors, as well as negative and positive outcomes.
Effectiveness of a Tailored Fall-Prevention Program for Discharged Older Patients: A Multicenter, Preliminary, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ueda Tetsuya , Higuchi Yumi , Hattori Gentoku , Nomura Hiromi , Yamanaka Gen , Hosaka Akiko , Sakuma Mina , Fukuda Takato , Fukumoto Takanori , Nemoto Takashi
Published: January 2022

This multicenter, preliminary, randomized controlled trial investigated the effect of a tailored fall-prevention program using home floor plans for discharged orthopedic patients aged ≥65 years who experienced ≥1 fall(s) in the past year (n = 72) at five acute-care hospitals. The control group received standard care (exercise to prevent recurrent falls), whereas the intervention group received a tailored fall-prevention program in addition to usual care. A physical therapist conducted the tailored education program using each patient’s home floor plans before discharge. A follow-up survey of falls and near-falls at home was performed using a monthly fall calendar for the 1-month period after discharge. Data on 81.5% of participants remained for the final analyses. No falls occurred in the intervention group; however, 4.3% of those in the control group experienced a fall. Near-falls were reported by 3.7% and 26.9% of the participants in the intervention and control groups, respectively. The proportion of participants who did not experience near-falls in the 1st month after discharge was lower in the intervention than in the control group (p = 0.018). In conclusion, the tailored fall-prevention program using home floor plans in multiple acute-care hospitals was effective in reducing falls and near-falls in discharged orthopedic patients.
Health Risks Due to Metal Concentrations in Soil and Vegetables from the Six Municipalities of the Island Province in the Philippines
Authors: Nolos Ronnel C. , Agarin Christine Joy M. , Domino Maria Ysabel R. , Bonifacio Pauline B. , Chan Eduardo B. , Mascareñas Doreen R. , Senoro Delia B.
Published: January 2022

This paper investigated the health risks due to metal concentrations in soil and vegetables from the island province in the Philippines and the potential ecological risks. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in vegetables and soil in six municipalities of the province were analyzed using the Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) Perkin Elmer Optima 8000. It was recorded that all metal concentrations in the soil, except for Cd, exceeded the soil quality standard (SQS). The concentration of Fe and Mn was highest among other metals. The Nemerow synthetical pollution index (Pn) in all soil samples was under Class V which means severe pollution level. Likewise, the risk index (RI) of soil ranged from high to very high pollution risk. Most of the metal concentrations in the vegetables analyzed also exceeded the maximum permissible limit (MPL). All health hazard indices (HHIs) were less than 1, which means potential low non-carcinogenic risk to human population by vegetable consumption. However, it was found that concentration of Cr and Ni in vegetables is a potential health hazard having concentrations exceeding the maximum threshold limit. A 75% temporary consumption reduction of bitter melon, eggplant, sweet potato tops, and string beans produced from two municipalities may be helpful in reducing exposure to target metals. Additional studies are needed to confirm this recommendation. Spatial correlation analysis showed that six out of target metals had datasets that were more spatially clustered than would be expected. The recorded data are useful for creation of research direction, and aid in developing strategies for remediation, tools, and programs for improving environmental and vegetable quality monitoring.
The Use of Lean Six Sigma Methodology in the Reduction of Patient Length of Stay Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Surgery
Authors: Moffatt Sinead , Garry Catherine , McCann Hannah , Teeling Sean Paul , Ward Marie , McNamara Martin
Published: January 2022

Background: The purpose of this study was to reduce the length of stay of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction patients within a private hospital in Ireland, reducing any non-value-added activity in the patient pathway, with the goal of increasing patient flow, bed capacity, and revenue generation within the hospital system, while maintaining patient satisfaction. Methods: We used a pre-/post-intervention design and Lean Six Sigma methods and tools to assess and improve the current process. Results: A reduction in inpatient length of stay by 57%, and a reduction in identified non-value-added activity by 88%, resulted in a new day-case surgery pathway for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction patients. The pathway evidenced no re-admissions and demonstrated patient satisfaction. Conclusion: Six months post-project commencement, we had successfully achieved our goals of reducing our anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction patient’s length of stay. This study contributes to the growing body of published evidence which shows that adopting a Lean Six Sigma approach can be successfully employed to optimise care and surgical pathways in healthcare.
International Understandings of Health Literacy in Childhood and Adolescence—A Qualitative-Explorative Analysis of Global Expert Interviews
Authors: Schulenkorf Tessa , Sørensen Kristine , Okan Orkan
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: With regard to children and adolescents, health literacy should only not be understood as an individual ability, but rather as dependent based on its contextual determinants. The study examines how experts define health literacy in childhood and adolescence and discusses whether they include these factors. (2) Methods: In 48 interviews with experts from 32 countries, specific questions for defining health literacy in childhood and adolescence were analyzed. Data analysis was conducted according to the summary of the qualitative content analysis. Main categories and subcategories were developed exploratively and inductively. (3) Results: No expert had an official definition of health literacy in childhood or adolescence. There were more experts who located health literacy only at the individual level alone than those who located it at both the individual and contextual levels. On the individual level, there was a focus on information processing, knowledge, behavior, and skills. At the contextual level, system responsibility, the ability of others, and relationship between age and development were the main points. (4) Conclusions: To develop an adequate method of dealing with health literacy in the target group, there must be a target group-specific consideration of the dependencies, ages, and developmental stages of that group. While this is considered as consensus in scientific discourse, it has seemingly not yet been adopted in development-related policies internationally.
Evaluation of the Efficiency in Public Health Centers in Greece Regarding the Human Resources Occupied: A Bootstrap Data Envelopment Analysis Application
Authors: Trakakis Anastasios , Nektarios Miltiadis , Tziaferi Styliani , Prezerakos Panagiotis
Published: January 2022

In this paper, the overall efficiency of health centers in Greece is measured by applying the input-oriented model of Data Envelopment Analysis. In addition, four different models were subjected to the input-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis to investigate the contribution of each category of human resources to the efficiency results of the health centers. The bootstrap technique was performed to generate confidence intervals for the models. Data for 155 health centers in Greece were provided by the Ministry of Health. The health centers submitted in the analysis obtained an average efficiency value of 0.932. The average results of the partial models in terms of each input show that the efficiency values achieved by the health centers are mostly influenced by the number of physicians and the number of managers employed. The second factor influencing the efficiency values of the health centers are the number of nursing staff occupied in the health centers. Non-medical staff employed in the health centers had the least contribution to the efficiencies measured. This paper provides important information for the stakeholders and the Government of Greece so as to better allocate the personnel employed in primary health care according to the efficiencies attained by the health centers.
Lifestyle and Self-Perceived Quality of Life in Sports Students: A Case Study
Authors: Gavala-González Juan , Torres-Perez Amanda , Gálvez-Fernández Ismael , Fernández-García José Carlos
Published: January 2022

Adolescence has been considered a crucial stage for the adoption of healthy habits such as physical activity. In addition, numerous research studies have shown that physical activity is a positive factor for health behaviors and quality of life. In this sense, the aim of this study was to examine the relationship between physical activity levels and perceived quality of life in a sample of students studying physical activity and sport. This is a descriptive observational study with a population of physical activity and sports students from the San Pablo High School in Seville, Spain. The participants (N = 86), with a mean age of 18.56 ± 1.88 years, were pursuing professional qualifications in Physical Activity and Sport. They were administered the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF) and the SF-36 questionnaire on perceived health status. For data analysis, a correlation analysis (Spearman’s rho) was performed. The results indicate that students attending sports-related vocational training programs engaged in more physical activity (96.9%) than the population average suggested by the World Health Organization (20%). In addition, a direct relationship was shown between participating in physical activity and perceived health. Depending on the intensity of the physical activity, students found less physical interference (IPAQ Vigorous—Physical Function (rho = 0.252; p = 0.019); IPAQ Sedentary—Bodily Pain (rho = 0. 223; p < 0.039); IPAQ Total—Physical Function (rho = 0.256; p = 0.018)) and emotional interference (IPAQ Moderate—Emotional Role (rho = 0.237; p = 0.028)) when performing exercise or activities of daily life; therefore, physical activity appears to be beneficial for self-perception of quality of life.
County-Wide Mortality Assessments Attributable to PM2.5 Emissions from Coal Consumption in Taiwan
Authors: Chio Chia-Pin , Lo Wei-Cheng , Tsuang Ben-Jei , Hu Chieh-Chun , Ku Kai-Chen , Wang Yi-Sheng , Chen Yung-Jen , Lin Hsien-Ho , Chan Chang-Chuan
Published: January 2022

Over one-third of energy is generated from coal consumption in Taiwan. In order to estimate the health impact assessment attributable to PM2.5 concentrations emitted from coal consumption in Taiwan. We applied a Gaussian trajectory transfer-coefficient model to obtain county-wide PM2.5 exposures from coal consumption, which includes coal-fired power plants and combined heat and power plants. Next, we calculated the mortality burden attributable to PM2.5 emitted by coal consumption using the comparative risk assessment framework developed by the Global Burden of Disease study. Based on county-level data, the average PM2.5 emissions from coal-fired plants in Taiwan was estimated at 2.03 ± 1.29 (range: 0.32–5.64) μg/m3. With PM2.5 increments greater than 0.1 μg/m3, there were as many as 16 counties and 66 air quality monitoring stations affected by coal-fired plants and 6 counties and 18 monitoring stations affected by combined heat and power plants. The maximum distances affected by coal-fired and combined heat and power plants were 272 km and 157 km, respectively. Our findings show that more counties were affected by coal-fired plants than by combined heat and power plants with significant increments of PM2.5 emissions. We estimated that 359.6 (95% CI: 334.8–384.9) annual adult deaths and 124.4 (95% CI: 116.4–132.3) annual premature deaths were attributable to PM2.5 emitted by coal-fired plants in Taiwan. Even in six counties without power plants, there were 75.8 (95% CI: 60.1–91.5) deaths and 25.8 (95%CI: 20.7–30.9) premature deaths annually attributable to PM2.5 emitted from neighboring coal-fired plants. This study presents a precise and effective integrated approach for assessing air pollution and the health impacts of coal-fired and combined heat and power plants.
Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Hospitalized Cancer Patients—Study from Silesia, Poland
Authors: Kasprzycka Karolina , Kurzawa Marta , Kucharz Malgorzata , Godawska Monika , Oleksa Marta , Stawowy Marta , Slupinska-Borowka Katarzyna , Sznek Wiktoria , Gisterek Iwona , Boratyn-Nowicka Agnieszka , Rucinska Monika , Osowiecka Karolina , Nawrocki Sergiusz
Published: January 2022

Background: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is common amongst cancer patients. The aim of the study was to investigate the use of CAM, beliefs about CAM and the purpose of using it amongst Polish cancer patients. Methods: The study included 864 cancer patients (median 63 years old), who were individually interviewed. The questionnaire was designed specifically for this study. Results: Amongst 732 patients who declared that they heard about CAM, 342 patients (46.7%) had used CAM; 91% of these patients had used it as a complementary therapy and 9% had used it as an alternative therapy. Patients younger in age, highly educated, professionally active, with longer medical history, and at more advanced cancer stages have, statistically, used CAM more often; 66% of participants could not state what the health effect of CAM is. Patients received information about CAM from the internet, friends, family and other patients. Only 18% of patients discussed using CAM with a doctor. Conclusions: CAM was popular amongst Polish cancer patients, especially in younger, educated and professionally active patients with longer cancer history at advanced stage. Patients used CAM as a complementary therapy for strengthening immune system, improving morphological and biochemical test parameters, reducing the side effects of conventional therapy and improving their well-being.
Social-Ecological Correlates of Children’s Independent Mobility: A Systematic Review
Authors: Riazi Negin A. , Wunderlich Kelly , Yun Lira , Paterson Derek C. , Faulkner Guy
Published: January 2022

Children’s independent mobility (IM) is associated with a range of benefits and understanding the factors that influence IM can support creation of effective interventions. The review (Prospero CRD42016042174) systematically summarized the available literature for social-ecological correlates of children’s IM in school-aged children and youth (aged 5–17 years). In this case, 53 studies were included and evaluated six individual, 15 interpersonal, 12 social environment, and 19 built environment- level variables. Most studies originated from Australia (n = 15) and Canada (n = 8) with most published in 2011 or later (n = 48). Variables that were consistently (positively and/or negatively) associated with children’s IM were age, ethnicity/race, child’s perceived competence, ownership of a house/access to house keys, having siblings, parents’ attitude toward IM and perception of child’s confidence, children’s interest in environment and activities, parents’ concern around traffic, housing/residential density, length of residency in one’s home, distance to destinations, and proximity to green space. Given the inter-related social-ecological correlates identified, intervention to promote children’s IM will likely need a multi-level and multi-sectoral approach. However, focus areas of building children’s skills and confidence, helping parents gain confidence in their children’s abilities, assuaging parental traffic concerns, and building environments with shorter distances to destinations of interest for children should be prioritized.
Can Green Technological Innovation Reduce Hazardous Air Pollutants?—An Empirical Test Based on 283 Cities in China
Authors: Ma Ning , Liu Puyu , Xiao Yadong , Tang Hengyun , Zhang Jianqing
Published: January 2022

Based on the panel data of 283 cities in China from 2009 to 2018, this paper analyzes the effect of urban green scientific and technological innovation enhancement on hazardous air pollutants using the GS2SLS method, which simultaneously controls for model endogeneity and spatial spillover effects and reveals the transmission mechanism of urban green scientific and technological innovation level. It was found that (1) There is a significant spatial spillover effect of hazardous air pollutants between regions, both in China as a whole and in the eastern, central, and western parts of the country, and the spatial spillover effect of hazardous air pollutants is significantly greater in the eastern and central parts of China than in the western parts. (2) Green technological innovation has a significant inhibitory effect on hazardous air pollutants in cities in eastern and central China. An extended study found that the improvement in green technology levels in innovative cities has a better effect on controlling hazardous air pollutants than in non-innovative cities. (3) The energy- saving and green economy effects have a mediating influence on the effect of green technological innovation on hazardous air pollutants in cities, and the simultaneous occurrence of these two effects in green technological innovation serves to enhance the transmission of hazardous air pollutants in order to facilitate the long-term management of haze.
Validity and Reliability of the Portuguese Version of the Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire—EVS III
Authors: Batista Marco , Leyton-Román Marta , Jiménez-Castuera Ruth
Published: January 2022

The main objective of this study was to validate the Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire—EVS III, using confirmatory factor analysis of the measurement model. A total of 822 Portuguese individuals of both genders, aged between 18 and 66 years old (M = 28.43 SD = 12.07), participated in this study, of which 382 were male (46.5%) and 440 were female (53.5%). The main results obtained revealed that the psychometric qualities prove the adequacy of the factor structure of the Healthy Lifestyles Questionnaire—EVS III (7 factors/32 items) and that it has acceptable validity indices: χ2 = 644.6828, p = 0.000, df = 168, χ2/df = 3.84, NFI = 0.901, TLI = 0.902, CFI = 0.921, IFI = 0.922, MFI = 0.900, GFI = 0.909, AGFI = 0.901, RMR = 0.073, SRMR = 0.059 and RMSEA = 0.059, enabling the assessment of factors related to a balanced diet, respect for mealtimes, tobacco consumption, alcohol consumption, consumption of other drugs, resting habits and physical activity habits. The Portuguese version of the Healthy Lifestyles Questionnaire—EVS III can be used with reasonable confidence for the assessment of healthy lifestyles.