bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Drought Stress on the Height Growth of Young Norway Spruce Full-Sib and Half-Sib Clonal Trials in Sweden and Finland
Authors: Hayatgheibi Haleh , Haapanen Matti , Lundströmer Jenny , Berlin Mats , Kärkkäinen Katri , Helmersson Andreas
Published: April 2021

The summer drought of 2018 was one of the most climatically severe events in Europe that led to record-breaking temperatures and wildfires in many parts of Europe. The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of the 2018 drought on the phenotypic and genetic response of Norway spruce height growth using the Standardized Precipitation-Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). To achieve this, the total cumulative height growth of about 6000 clones from 2016 to 2019 in four full-sib trials in Sweden, aged 6–7 years, and from 2017 to 2019 in two half-sib trials in Finland, aged 8–9 years, were measured. The results indicate that the 2018 drought caused reductions in the increment of trees. Although heritability estimates were similar to other reports for Norway spruce, the additive genetic variance was highly inflated in one of the visibly drought-damaged trials in Southern Sweden. Similarly, the genotype by environment (G × E) interaction was highly significant in the drought-damaged Southern Swedish trials. Both additive genetic and phenotypic correlations obtained between height increments in 2019 and final heights were the weakest in all studied trials, implying that the drought legacies might have influenced the recovery of trees in 2019. We may conclude that the severe drought can be an underlying factor for a strong G × E interaction and changes in the ranking of genotypes. Therefore, a selection of drought-resistant genotypes with a good growth capacity tested in variables sites should be considered as an important criterion for future breeding of Norway spruce.
North-Westward Expansion of the Invasive Range of Emerald Ash Borer, Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) towards the EU: From Moscow to Saint Petersburg
Authors: Musolin Dmitry L. , Selikhovkin Andrey V. , Peregudova Elena Y. , Popovichev Boris G. , Mandelshtam Michail Y. , Baranchikov Yuri N. , Vasaitis Rimvys
Published: April 2021

Agrilus planipennis is a devastating invasive pest of ash trees in European Russia, Ukraine, and North America. To monitor the north-western limit of its European invasive range, in June 2018 we established 10 study plots along the federal highway M10 (Russia) that runs between Moscow and Saint Petersburg through Tver’ City (approx. 180 km from Moscow), and lined with ash trees. On each plot, 2–4 Fraxinus pennsylvanica trees with heights ranging 6.1–17.0 m and diameters ranging 7.0–18.0 cm were girdled, i.e., 50 cm of their bark were removed. The study plots were visited and girdled trees were examined in September and November, 2018, and in October, 2019. Observations revealed that the current continuous north-western limit of A. planipennis range in European Russia coincides with the north-western border of Tver’ City and this range limit has not distinctly shifted north-westward during 2015–2019. In spite of the rich food supply (due to abundant F. pennsylvanica and F. excelsior plantings) in Tver’ City and along roads going to and from, the population density of A. planipennis in the area is currently low. Recent (September 2020) sudden detection of a spatially isolated A. planipennis outbreak approx. 520 km far north-westward from Tver’ (in Saint Petersburg) suggested that A. planipennis most likely had arrived at Saint Petersburg not by gradual stepwise (flying tree-to-tree) expansion of its continuous invasive range in Tver’ City, but as a result of its accidental introduction by means of, e.g., “insect-hitchhiked” vehicles, transported plants for planting, and/or other commodities. The proximity of the reported A.planipennis outbreak to the borders of the EU (approx. 130 km to Estonia and Finland) requires urgent measures for its containment and control, and constant monitoring.
Cambial Activity and Phenology in Three Understory Species along an Altitude Gradient in Mexico
Authors: Jiménez-Noriega Mayte S. , López-Mata Lauro , Terrazas Teresa
Published: April 2021

The aims of this study were to evaluate the cambial activity and phenology of three species with different life forms (Alchemilla procumbens, Acaena elongata and Ribes ciliatum) along an altitudinal gradient and to establish which environmental variables (light, soil humidity and temperature) had the greatest influence on cambial activity and phenological stages. Over two years, data on phenology, growth and cambium were gathered every four weeks in three to six sites per species in Sierra Nevada, Mexico. The results showed that Ribes is the only species that terminates cambial activity with leaves senescence and is influenced by the minimum soil temperature. The light environment influenced the vegetative stages in Alchemilla (cryptophyte), while in Acaena (hemicryptophyte), the mean soil temperature explained the findings related to leaf area during the dry season and growth along the gradient. In the three species, the reproductive phase dominated for a longer period at higher elevations, especially in Alchemilla. Only Ribes, the phanerophyte, showed a similar cambial activity to other trees and shrubs. Although cambium reactivates during the dry season, no xylogenesis occurs. The three species varied during the time in which vascular cambium was active, and this was dependent on the altitude. Specifically, the variation was more rhythmic in Ribes and switched on and off in Alchemilla. It is likely that, depending on the life form, vascular cambium may be more or less susceptible to one or more climate factors.
Genome-Wide Characterization of Dirigent Proteins in Populus: Gene Expression Variation and Expression Pattern in Response to Marssonina brunnea and Phytohormones
Authors: Li Lingling , Sun Weibo , Zhou Peijun , Wei Hui , Wang Pu , Li Hongyan , Rehman Shamsur , Li Dawei , Zhuge Qiang
Published: April 2021

Marssonina brunnea causes a major disease that limits poplar growth. Lignin and lignan play essential roles in protecting plants from various biological stresses. Dirigent (DIR) proteins are thought to control the stereoselective coupling of coniferyl alcohol in the formation of lignan and lignin. DIR family members have been well studied in several plant species, but no previous detailed genome-wide analysis has been carried out in forest trees, such as poplar. We identified 40 PtDIR genes in Populus trichocarpa and classified them into three subgroups (DIR-a, DIR-b/d, and DIR-e) based on phylogenetic analyses. These genes are distributed on 11 poplar chromosomes, and 80% of PtDIRs (32/40) are intronless. The cis-element analysis inferred that PtDIRs possess many types of biological and abiotic stress-response cis-elements. We also analyzed intra- and inter-specific collinearity, which provided deep insights into the evolutionary characteristics of the poplar DIR genes. Analyses of the protein tertiary structure and critical amino acid residues showed that PtDIR7–10 and PtDIR13–16, which belong to the DIR-a subfamily, might be involved in the regio- and stereo-selectivity of bimolecular phenoxy radical coupling in poplars. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis revealed different expression patterns for the PtDIR genes of P. trichocarpa and the PeDIR genes of ‘Nanlin 895’ in various tissues. Additionally, we analyzed responses of PeDIRs to M. brunnea and different phytohormone treatments (abscisic acid, salicylic acid, methyl jasmonate, and ethylene) in ‘Nanlin 895’. The results showed that at least 18 genes responded strongly to M. brunnea, and these PeDIRs also showed significant responses to phytohormones. These results suggest that DIR genes are involved in the poplar defense response against M. brunnea, and this study will provide fundamental insights for future research on poplar DIR genes.
Endogenous Transmission Mechanism and Spatial Effect of Forest Ecological Security in China
Authors: Cai Xiuting , Zhang Bin , Lyu Jiehua
Published: April 2021

Forest ecological security is an important component of ecological security and national security, and it is a requirement for the sustainable development of the forestry economy. In this study, based on the pressure–state–response (PSR) model, an evaluation index system of forest ecological security was constructed regarding three aspects: the pressure on the forest ecosystem caused by human activities, the state of the forest ecosystem, and the response measures taken by humans to protect the forest ecosystem. The forest ecological security and its pressure, state, and response in 31 provinces (municipalities and autonomous regions) in China from 2004 to 2018 were evaluated. Furthermore, with the help of a mediating effect model, the Moran index, and a spatial econometric model, the interaction relationship, spatial correlation effect, and spatial spillover effect of the pressure–state–response of forest ecological security were analyzed. The results showed the following: First, during the study period, the forest ecological security of most provinces was at sensitive and critical safety levels, and the forest ecological security level in Northeast and Southwest China was generally higher than that in Northwest and East China. Second, regarding the pressure, state, and response of forest ecological security, the pressure was generally low but with an increasing trend, the state was relatively good with continuous improvement, and the response was clearly insufficient and showed a fluctuating downward trend. Third, there were six different transmission mechanisms between pressure, state, and response of forest ecological security, among which there were significant transmission barriers between pressure and response. Given these findings, we propose suggestions to promote the improvement of forest ecological security in China.
Towards Uncertainty Quantification of LES and URANS for the Buoyancy-Driven Mixing Process between Two Miscible Fluids—Differentially Heated Cavity of Aspect Ratio 4
Authors: Wenig Philipp J. , Ji Ruiyun , Kelm Stephan , Klein Markus
Published: April 2021

Numerical simulations are subject to uncertainties due to the imprecise knowledge of physical properties, model parameters, as well as initial and boundary conditions. The assessment of these uncertainties is required for some applications. In the field of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), the reliable prediction of hydrogen distribution and pressure build-up in nuclear reactor containment after a severe reactor accident is a representative application where the assessment of these uncertainties is of essential importance. The inital and boundary conditions that significantly influence the present buoyancy-driven flow are subject to uncertainties. Therefore, the aim is to investigate the propagation of uncertainties in input parameters to the results variables. As a basis for the examination of a representative reactor test containment, the investigations are initially carried out using the Differentially Heated Cavity (DHC) of aspect ratio 4 with Ra=2×109 as a test case from the literature. This allows for gradual method development for guidelines to quantify the uncertainty of natural convection flows in large-scale industrial applications. A dual approach is applied, in which Large Eddy Simulation (LES) is used as reference for the Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) computations. A methodology for the uncertainty quantification in engineering applications with a preceding mesh convergence study and sensitivity analysis is presented. By taking the LES as a reference, the results indicate that URANS is able to predict the underlying mixing process at Ra=2×109 and the variability of the result variables due to parameter uncertainties.
The Contribution of Thai Fisheries to Sustainable Seafood Consumption: National Trends and Future Projections
Authors: Sampantamit Tiptiwa , Ho Long , Lachat Carl , Hanley-Cook Giles , Goethals Peter
Published: April 2021

Sustainably feeding a growing human population is one of the greatest food system challenges of the 21st century. Seafood plays a vital role in supporting human wellbeing, by providing bioavailable and nutrient-dense animal-source food. In Thailand, seafood demand is increasing, and wild capture fishery yields have plateaued, due to oceanic ecosystem degradation and fishery stock exploitation. In this study, we investigated the supply trend of fishery products and subsequent seafood-derived nutrient availability over the last decade. In addition, we explored the possibility of predicting seafood availability and consumption levels, including adherence to Thailand’s national food guide and global dietary recommendations for sustainable seafood consumption. Our findings indicate that, at national-level, fishery products supplied between 19% and 35% of the Thai populations recommended dietary protein intake, 4–6% of calcium, 6–11% of iron, and 2–4% of zinc from 1995 to 2015. Nevertheless, our research also reports that if Thailand’s wild-caught seafood production were to decrease by 13%, as is highly likely, by 2030, the country might face a per capita supply deficit of fish and shellfish to meet healthy and sustainable dietary recommendations (28–30 g/day), let alone the current Thai average intake (32 g/day). Although a 1% per year increase in aquaculture production might bridge this supply gap, policymakers and relevant fishery stakeholders must consider the long-term environmental impacts of such an approach in Thailand.
Growth Restriction and Genomic Imprinting-Overlapping Phenotypes Support the Concept of an Imprinting Network
Authors: Eggermann Thomas , Davies Justin H. , Tauber Maithé , van den Akker Erica , Hokken-Koelega Anita , Johansson Gudmundur , Netchine Irène
Published: April 2021

Intrauterine and postnatal growth disturbances are major clinical features of imprinting disorders, a molecularly defined group of congenital syndromes caused by molecular alterations affecting parentally imprinted genes. These genes are expressed monoallelically and in a parent-of-origin manner, and they have an impact on human growth and development. In fact, several genes with an exclusive expression from the paternal allele have been shown to promote foetal growth, whereas maternally expressed genes suppress it. The evolution of this correlation might be explained by the different interests of the maternal and paternal genomes, aiming for the conservation of maternal resources for multiple offspring versus extracting maximal maternal resources. Since not all imprinted genes in higher mammals show the same imprinting pattern in different species, the findings from animal models are not always transferable to human. Therefore, human imprinting disorders might serve as models to understand the complex regulation and interaction of imprinted loci. This knowledge is a prerequisite for the development of precise diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for patients affected by imprinting disorders. In this review we will specifically overview the current knowledge on imprinting disorders associated with growth retardation, and its increasing relevance in a personalised medicine direction and the need for a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach.
Structures of the ß-Keratin Filaments and Keratin Intermediate Filaments in the Epidermal Appendages of Birds and Reptiles (Sauropsids)
Authors: Parry David A.D.
Published: April 2021

The epidermal appendages of birds and reptiles (the sauropsids) include claws, scales, and feathers. Each has specialized physical properties that facilitate movement, thermal insulation, defence mechanisms, and/or the catching of prey. The mechanical attributes of each of these appendages originate from its fibril-matrix texture, where the two filamentous structures present, i.e., the corneous ß-proteins (CBP or ß-keratins) that form 3.4 nm diameter filaments and the α-fibrous molecules that form the 7–10 nm diameter keratin intermediate filaments (KIF), provide much of the required tensile properties. The matrix, which is composed of the terminal domains of the KIF molecules and the proteins of the epidermal differentiation complex (EDC) (and which include the terminal domains of the CBP), provides the appendages, with their ability to resist compression and torsion. Only by knowing the detailed structures of the individual components and the manner in which they interact with one another will a full understanding be gained of the physical properties of the tissues as a whole. Towards that end, newly-derived aspects of the detailed conformations of the two filamentous structures will be discussed and then placed in the context of former knowledge.
Responses to Mineral Supplementation and Salmon Lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) Infestation in Skin Layers of Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar L.)
Authors: Sveen Lene , Krasnov Aleksei , Timmerhaus Gerrit , Bogevik Andrè Sture
Published: April 2021

The crustacean ectoparasite salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis), which severely affects Atlantic salmon health and welfare is one of the main problems of commercial aquaculture. In the present study, fish were fed a diet supplemented with extra minerals through the inclusion of a commercial additive (Biofeed Forte Salmon), substituting wheat in the control diet, before experimental infestation with salmon lice. Lice counts reduced with time but with no apparent effect of the diets. Further, fish fed the mineral diet had an overall higher number of blue (acidic) mucous cells, while the ratio of purple mucous cells was higher in the mineral diet. The transcriptional response in skin was enhanced at 7 dpc (copepodite life stage) in fish fed the mineral diet including immune and stress responses, while at 21 dpc (pre-adult life stage), the difference disappeared, or reversed with stronger induction in the control diet. Overall, 9.3% of the genes affected with lice also responded to the feed, with marked differences in outer (scale + epidermis) and inner (dermis) skin layers. A comparison of transcriptome data with five datasets from previous trials revealed common features and gene markers of responses to lice, stress, and mechanically induced wounds. Results suggested a prevalence of generic responses in wounded skin and lice-infected salmon.
Pre-Procedural Lumbar Neuraxial Ultrasound—A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sidiropoulou Tatiana , Christodoulaki Kalliopi , Siristatidis Charalampos
Published: April 2021

A pre-procedural ultrasound of the lumbar spine is frequently used to facilitate neuraxial procedures. The aim of this review is to examine the evidence sustaining the utilization of pre-procedural neuraxial ultrasound compared to conventional methods. We perform a systematic review of randomized controlled trials with meta-analyses. We search the electronic databases Medline, Cochrane Central, Science Direct and Scopus up to 1 June 2019. We include trials comparing a pre-procedural lumbar spine ultrasound to a non-ultrasound-assisted method. The primary endpoints are technical failure rate, first-attempt success rate, number of needle redirections and procedure time. We retrieve 32 trials (3439 patients) comparing pre-procedural lumbar ultrasounds to palpations for neuraxial procedures in various clinical settings. Pre-procedural ultrasounds decrease the overall risk of technical failure (Risk Ratio (RR) 0.69 (99% CI, 0.43 to 1.10), p = 0.04) but not in obese and difficult spinal patients (RR 0.53, p = 0.06) and increase the first-attempt success rate (RR 1.5 (99% CI, 1.22 to 1.86), p < 0.0001, NNT = 5). In difficult spines and obese patients, the RR is 1.84 (99% CI, 1.44 to 2.3; p < 0.0001, NNT = 3). The number of needle redirections is lower with pre-procedural ultrasounds (SMD = −0.55 (99% CI, −0.81 to −0.29), p < 0.0001), as is the case in difficult spines and obese patients (SMD = −0.85 (99% CI, −1.08 to −0.61), p < 0.0001). No differences are observed in procedural times. Ιn conclusion, a pre-procedural ultrasound provides significant benefit in terms of technical failure, number of needle redirections and first attempt-success rate. Τhe effect of pre-procedural ultrasound scanning of the lumbar spine is more significant in a subgroup analysis of difficult spines and obese patients.
A Quantitative Management of Potassium Supply for Hydroponic Production of Low-Potassium Cherry-Type Tomato Fruit for Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Tsukagoshi Satoru , Aoki Miho , Johkan Masahumi , Hohjo Masaaki , Maruo Toru
Published: April 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been a global health problem in recent years. CKD patients often restrict their potassium (K) intake to avoid the high risk of hyperkalemia. In this study, quantitative K management in hydroponics was adopted to produce low K cherry-type tomato (Solanum lycopersicom L.) fruit. The total quantity of K supply per plant during the cultivation was 7.2 g (1 K), 3.6 g (1/2 K), 1.8 g (1/4 K), 0.9 g (1/8 K) and 0.6 g (1/12 K), respectively. The total fruit yield decreased to about 75% at 1/2 K and 58% at 1/12 K compared to 1 K. The fruit K content was lower in 1/4 K, 1/8 K and 1/12 K than in 1 K and 1/2 K, and the fruit from 1/8 K and 1/12 K achieved below 100 mg 100 g−1 FW of K. Total soluble solid content (Brix) was 7–8% in 1 K and 1/4 K but was lower in 1/8 K and 1/12 K. Fruit acid content decreased to 87% in 1/2 K to 70% in 1/4 K and 1/8 K, and to 57% in 1/12 K of 1 K. In conclusion, quantitative K management in hydroponics is expected to produce low K tomato fruit. Fruit K content of approximately 100 mg.100 g−1 FW was achieved when the quantity of K supply was 1/4 K and 1/8 K, with a relatively smaller effect on fruit yield, Brix and acid content.
Opening Gated Communities and Neighborhood Accessibility Benefits: The Case of Seoul, Korea
Authors: Dogan Omer , Han Jaewon , Lee Sugie
Published: April 2021

The level of spatial accessibility is directly related to how street networks are connected. Connected or so-called “permeable” network systems encourage walking, cycling, and riding public transit. Fast urbanization during the recent decades in the world metropolises has created separated urban areas. Gated-style apartment complexes have led this segregation more obviously with their inaccessible internal networks. Opening the internal network of apartment complexes and redesigning the pedestrian paths among apartment buildings will significantly mitigate these networks’ adverse effects on network permeability and increase spatial accessibility. This paper analyzes how such an opening design proposal for apartment complexes can change spatial accessibility using the case study of Mapo-gu, Seoul, Korea. It simulates three types of street networks and compares the results of accessibility in three conditions: (1) the internal networks of apartment complexes are not used by outsiders; (2) the internal networks of apartment complexes are open to outsiders with its existing entrances and path; and (3) the internal networks of sites are opened and redesigned by the Voronoi diagram method, which generates the optimal shortest path. An urban network analysis tool, Rhinoceros three-dimensional software, and Grashopper3D visual programming language have been used for the study results, which shows that a policy change in opening the intra-network of apartment complexes is likely to make the city more permeable. In addition, this study suggests extra modification on the pedestrian path for a higher level of accessibility in neighborhoods.
Predicting Active NBA Players Most Likely to Be Inducted into the Basketball Hall of Famers Using Artificial Neural Networks in Microsoft Excel: Development and Usability Study
Authors: Chou Po-Hsin , Chien Tsair-Wei , Yang Ting-Ya , Yeh Yu-Tsen , Chou Willy , Yeh Chao-Hung
Published: April 2021

The prediction of whether active NBA players can be inducted into the Hall of Fame (HOF) is interesting and important. However, no such research have been published in the literature, particularly using the artificial neural network (ANN) technique. The aim of this study is to build an ANN model with an app for automatic prediction and classification of HOF for NBA players. We downloaded 4728 NBA players’ data of career stats and accolades from the website at basketball-reference.com. The training sample was collected from 85 HOF members and 113 retired Non-HOF players based on completed data and a longer career length (≥15 years). Featured variables were taken from the higher correlation coefficients (<0.1) with HOF and significant deviations apart from the two HOF/Non-HOF groups using logistical regression. Two models (i.e., ANN and convolutional neural network, CNN) were compared in model accuracy (e.g., sensitivity, specificity, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, AUC). An app predicting HOF was then developed involving the model’s parameters. We observed that (1) 20 feature variables in the ANN model yielded a higher AUC of 0.93 (95% CI 0.93–0.97) based on the 198-case training sample, (2) the ANN performed better than CNN on the accuracy of AUC (= 0.91, 95% CI 0.87–0.95), and (3) an ready and available app for predicting HOF was successfully developed. The 20-variable ANN model with the 53 parameters estimated by the ANN for improving the accuracy of HOF has been developed. The app can help NBA fans to predict their players likely to be inducted into the HOF and is not just limited to the active NBA players.
A Transdisciplinary Approach to Address Climate Change Adaptation for Human Health and Well-Being in Africa
Authors: Wright Caradee Yael , Moore Candice Eleanor , Chersich Matthew , Hester Rebecca , Nayna Schwerdtle Patricia , Mbayo Guy Kakumbi , Akong Charles Ndika , Butler Colin D.
Published: April 2021

The health sector response to dealing with the impacts of climate change on human health, whether mitigative or adaptive, is influenced by multiple factors and necessitates creative approaches drawing on resources across multiple sectors. This short communication presents the context in which adaptation to protect human health has been addressed to date and argues for a holistic, transdisciplinary, multisectoral and systems approach going forward. Such a novel health-climate approach requires broad thinking regarding geographies, ecologies and socio-economic policies, and demands that one prioritises services for vulnerable populations at higher risk. Actions to engage more sectors and systems in comprehensive health-climate governance are identified. Much like the World Health Organization’s ‘Health in All Policies’ approach, one should think health governance and climate change together in a transnational framework as a matter not only of health promotion and disease prevention, but of population security. In an African context, there is a need for continued cross-border efforts, through partnerships, blending climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction, and long-term international financing, to contribute towards meeting sustainable development imperatives.
Regression with Highly Correlated Predictors: Variable Omission Is Not the Solution
Authors: Gregorich Mariella , Strohmaier Susanne , Dunkler Daniela , Heinze Georg
Published: April 2021

Regression models have been in use for decades to explore and quantify the association between a dependent response and several independent variables in environmental sciences, epidemiology and public health. However, researchers often encounter situations in which some independent variables exhibit high bivariate correlation, or may even be collinear. Improper statistical handling of this situation will most certainly generate models of little or no practical use and misleading interpretations. By means of two example studies, we demonstrate how diagnostic tools for collinearity or near-collinearity may fail in guiding the analyst. Instead, the most appropriate way of handling collinearity should be driven by the research question at hand and, in particular, by the distinction between predictive or explanatory aims.
Using Internet Search Queries to Assess Public Awareness of the Healthy Cities Approach: A Case Study in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Yang Jun , Zhang Yutong , Xiao Yixiong , Shen Shaoqing , Su Mo , Bai Yuqi , Zhou Jingbo , Gong Peng
Published: April 2021

Cities around the globe are embracing the Healthy Cities approach to address urban health challenges. Public awareness is vital for successfully deploying this approach but is rarely assessed. In this study, we used internet search queries to evaluate the public awareness of the Healthy Cities approach applied in Shenzhen, China. The overall situation at the city level and the intercity variations were both analyzed. Additionally, we explored the factors that might affect the internet search queries of the Healthy Cities approach. Our results showed that the public awareness of the approach in Shenzhen was low. There was a high intercity heterogeneity in terms of interest in the various components of the Healthy Cities approach. However, we did not find a significant effect of the selected demographic, environmental, and health factors on the search queries. Based on our findings, we recommend that the city raise public awareness of healthy cities and take actions tailored to health concerns in different city zones. Our study showed that internet search queries can be a valuable data source for assessing the public awareness of the Healthy Cities approach.
Using Digital Platforms to Promote Blood Donation: Motivational and Preliminary Evidence from Latin America and Spain
Authors: Torrent-Sellens Joan , Salazar-Concha Cristian , Ficapal-Cusí Pilar , Saigí-Rubió Francesc
Published: April 2021

The lack of blood donors is a global problem that prevents the demand for blood prompted by an ageing population and increased life expectancy from being met. The aim of this study was to conduct an initial exploration of the reasons for using digital platforms in blood donation. Using a Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework, microdata for 389 participants from Latin American countries and Spain, and Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the study obtained three main prediction paths. The first two started from feelings of trust in the digital community and a positive mood state associated with a modern lifestyle, and they were linked to attitudes and behavioural control in the explanation of the intention to donate and actual blood donation. The third path started from modern lifestyles, and was linked to the subjective norm in the prediction of intention and actual donation. These paths represent one of the very first attempts to predict intentions of donation and collaborative donation by taking a PLS-SEM approach. By determining the paths underpinning collaborative blood donors’ motives, the results of this study provide strong support for the usefulness of the TPB model within the context of digital platform use and blood donation.
Medial Sigmoid Depression of the Mandibular Ramus as a Lesion-Mimicking Anatomical Variation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yeung Andy Wai Kan , Wong Natalie Sui Miu
Published: April 2021

(1) Background: Medial sigmoid depression (MSD) of the mandibular ramus is an anatomical variation that resembles non-odontogenic cystic lesion. (2) Aim: The aim of this systematic review was to survey the literature to identify the relevant journal publications, reveal their scientific impact in terms of citations and compare the reported prevalence of MSD. (3) Materials and methods: PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science were queried to identify relevant publications. The search string was: “medial depression of mandibular ramus” OR “medial depression of the mandibular ramus” OR “medial depression of the mandibular rami” OR “medial depression of mandibular rami” OR “medial sigmoid depression”. (4) Results: Eight studies were identified. Dry mandibles and patient dental panoramic radiographs were evaluated in four and seven of the eight studies, respectively. The prevalence of MSD varied from 20.2% to 82.0%. In male and female patients, the prevalence was 18.3–76.0% and 22.0–64.0%, respectively. MSD tended to occur bilaterally and most prevalent in patients with Angle’s Class II occlusion. The semilunar and triangular shapes were more common than teardrop and circular shapes. The most cited study had 12 citations. (5) Conclusions: MSD was a seldom investigated and cited anatomical variation that was not uncommon. Its recognition should be further promoted.
Assessment of Quality of Life in Infertility Treated Women in Poland
Authors: Wdowiak Artur , Anusiewicz Agnieszka , Bakalczuk Grzegorz , Raczkiewicz Dorota , Janczyk Paula , Makara-Studzińska Marta
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life (QoL) of infertility treated women as it can affect the effectiveness of therapy. This cross-sectional study was conducted with Abbreviated World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF), Fertility Quality of Life tool (FertiQoL) and an author’s questionnaire. The study included 1200 women treated for infertility without the use of assisted reproductive technology (non-ART), intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilization (IVF). The control group was 100 healthy women who had children. The time to conceive did not significantly differ between study groups and was 3.1–3.6 years, on average. The quality of life in the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire data significantly differed between study groups and the control (physical domain p < 0.001, psychological p = 0.009; social p = 0.004; environmental p < 0.001). A significant effect was found in 4 FertiQoL subscales: emotional, biological, partnership, and attitude towards treatment; depending on the method of treatment. Women who received non-ART treatment evaluated their QoL in significantly more negative terms in these 4 subscales, compared to those treated with IVF. The quality of life depends on reproductive problems, methods of infertility treatment, age, place of residence, and education level. Prolongation of the duration of treatment unfavourably affects the quality of life. The quality of life of women undergoing infertility treatment differs according to the mode of work and having children from a previous relationship.
House Dust Avoidance during Pregnancy and Subsequent Infant Development: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Matsumura Kenta , Hamazaki Kei , Tsuchida Akiko , Inadera Hidekuni ,   The Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) Group
Published: April 2021

House dust, well known for causing allergy, contains chemicals that are harmful to fetal neurodevelopment. However, whether countermeasures for house dust allergy, such as frequent use of vacuum cleaners, frequent airing of futons, and the usage of anti-mite covers during pregnancy, are related to subsequent reduced risk of infant developmental delay remains unknown. Therefore, we examined this association by analyzing 81,106 mother-infant pairs who participated in a nationwide birth cohort in Japan. Infant developmental delays at 6 and 12 months postpartum were assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition. A generalized linear model analysis was used to derive adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with the lowest care frequency as reference, while controlling 22 covariates. Our analysis showed that the above-mentioned cleaning measures were overall associated with a reduced risk of developmental delays, both at 6 and 12 months postpartum (AOR varied from 0.73 to 0.95, median: 0.84). Additionally, risks tended to decrease with an increase in the cleaning frequency. In conclusion, a negative dose-response association existed between these measures during pregnancy and infant developmental delay. Our results identify a potential role of frequent vacuum cleaning, airing bedding, and usage of anti-mite bedding covers in promoting intact infant development.
Gender Equality and Social Inclusion in Relation to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in the Oromia Region of Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Geteneh Moges , Sherif Samiha , Sluijs Jose , Kuijpers Maarten , Chaka Tamene , Solomon Arsema , Hailu Yeshitila , Muluneh Muluken Dessalegn
Published: April 2021

The main purpose of the study was to deepen the understanding of gender and social inclusion in the context of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. An explorative qualitative study was conducted in three districts of the Oromia region using gender analysis frameworks. Twenty-one key informant interviews and nine focus group discussions were conducted. Findings showed 52% of households in the study area have basic service level water, 29% have basic service level sanitation, and 14% have basic service level hygiene. Women, girls, and people living with disability disproportionately experience poor access to quality WASH services. Women and girls participate in unequal domestic labor related to water management which often exposes them to discrimination and violence such as rape, abduction, and assault. Overall, women, girls, and other socially excluded groups are rarely consulted and engaged by local actors. This results in incongruent policy and political commitment which limits action at the grassroots level. Integrating gender equality and inclusion efforts into local governance agendas can help to increase access to and the quality of WASH services. These efforts must advocate for moving beyond gender parity to promote gender transformative approaches and inclusion to realize better WASH services for the communities they serve.
Insomnia among Prison Officers and Its Relationship with Occupational Burnout: The Role of Coping with Stress in Polish and Indonesian Samples
Authors: Sygit-Kowalkowska Ewa , Piotrowski Andrzej , Hamzah Imaduddin
Published: April 2021

Thus far, data on sleep disorders among prison officers (POs) have been scarce. Research allows us to relate this problem to occupational stress, which POs experience every day. The aim of the current study was to analyze the scale, predictors, and impact of select factors on the relationship between insomnia and occupational burnout. This study was carried out on a sample of 376 Indonesian and 288 Polish POs using the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) inventory, and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI). Results showed that 43.4% of the Polish sample exhibited early symptoms of insomnia, compared to 26.1% of the Indonesian sample. Sleep disorders had a significant role in developing occupational burnout. In both samples, coping strategies such as help-seeking and engagement were revealed to have a mediating role in the relationship between insomnia and occupational burnout dimensions. For the total sample and for the Polish sample, the coping strategy of help-seeking was the only predictor of insomnia. Discrepancies (concerning the role of age, gender, and multi-shift work) were observed between the current results and earlier studies. The current study’s limitations were discussed and new solutions were proposed.
Influential Factors of Masticatory Performance in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kim Hee-Eun
Published: April 2021

While appropriate nutrient intake is important for older adults, various oral problems cause decreased masticatory function. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the factors associated with decreased masticatory performance in older adults. Oral examinations were performed on 80 participants (mean age: 75.10 ± 5.64 years) to determine the number of functional tooth units (FTUs). Symptoms of periodontal and temporomandibular diseases were evaluated via a questionnaire. The tone, elasticity, and dynamic stiffness of the masseter muscle were measured using the Myoton® PRO device. The mixing ability test was used to assess the masticatory performance, and the mixing ability index (MAI) was calculated. The analysis of covariance test was performed to adjust for confounding factors, and multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors affecting MAI. A lower MAI was significantly associated with higher tone (p = 0.006) and lower elasticity (p = 0.013). The number of FTUs (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.724, p = 0.029), tone (adjusted OR = 1.215, p = 0.016), and elasticity (adjusted OR = 4.789, p = 0.038) were independently associated with the MAI. Muscle function training and prosthetic treatments may help increase masticatory performance in older adults, which would improve overall health.
Association between Life Skills and Academic Performance in Adolescents in the Autonomous Community of Aragon (Spain)
Authors: Sánchez-Hernando Beatriz , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Antón-Solanas Isabel , Gasch-Gallén Ángel , Melo Pedro , Nguyen Tam H. , Martínez-Riera José Ramón , Ferrer-Gracia Elisa , Gea-Caballero Vicente
Published: April 2021

Background: Learning and socio-emotional development is promoted through the creation and nurturing of an optimal school climate. This study aims to analyze the relationship between life skills and academic performance in a large sample of adolescents from the autonomous community of Aragón (Spain). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on the life skills and academic performance of a sample of 7th and 8th grade middle school students during the academic year 2018–2019. A sample of 43 middle schools were randomly selected; the final sample comprised 1745 students. The following data were collected through an anonymized, previously validated questionnaire: sociodemographic variables, social skills, self-efficacy, affective balance, and academic performance. Results: We found a statistically significant association between life skills and academic performance (p < 0.001) in our sample. We also observed significant gender differences in life skills, with boys obtaining higher scores in cognitive skills and affective balance, and with girls achieving higher scores in social skills. Conclusion: We argue that life skills should be integrated into educational policies in order to improve the academic performance and health outcomes of students.
Sink or Swim: Virtual Life Challenges among African American Families during COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Anakwe Adaobi , Majee Wilson , Noel-London Kemba , Zachary Iris , BeLue Rhonda
Published: April 2021

This study explores African American parents’ experiences with using technology to engage their children in meaningful activities (e.g., e-learning) during COVID-19 and its impact on family health. Eleven African American families were recruited through a local health department program from a rural Midwestern community to participate in semi-structured interviews. Majority of participants reported stresses from feelings of “sink or swim” in a digital world, without supports from schools to effectively provide for their children’s technology needs. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of family-school collaborative engagement and empowerment. Digital technology needs to become part of our school education system so that technology use among African Americans is elevated and families protected against future outbreaks. Further research with a more diverse African American sample is needed.
Physical Activity and Glycemic Control Status in Chinese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yao Wei-Yuan , Han Meng-Ge , De Vito Giuseppe , Fang Hong , Xia Qinghua , Chen Yingyao , Liu Xiaona , Wei Yan , Rothman Russell L. , Xu Wang-Hong
Published: April 2021

This secondary analysis was designed to evaluate the independent effect of physical activity (PA) on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A total of 799 T2DM patients from eight communities of Shanghai, China, were randomized into one control arm and three intervention arms receiving 1-year interventions of health literacy, exercise, or both. PA was measured using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire at baseline, 12 months, and 24 months and quantified as metabolic equivalents (Mets). A multiple level mixed regression model was applied to evaluate the associations between PA and HbA1c level. After adjusting for potential confounders including interaction of PA level with initial PA or HbA1c, a significant improved HbA1c was observed for the patients in the medium versus the lowest tertile groups of overall PA at 12 months (β: −3.47, 95%CI: −5.33, −1.60) and for those in the highest versus the lowest tertile group at 24 months (β: −0.50, 95%CI: −1.00, −0.01), resulting in a β (95%CI) of −3.49 (95%CI: −5.87, −1.11) during the whole two-year period of follow-up. The negative association was also observed when the subjects were classified according to their exercise levels using the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation as a cut-off point. The beneficial effect of higher PA level was only observed among patients having a lower level of baseline HbA1c or PA or both (all p values for interaction <0.05). Our results provide evidence for the beneficial effect of PA and suggest that the exercise intervention should be addressed to the physically inactive patients to improve their PA level to a physiological threshold.
An Investigation of the Association between Health Screening and Dental Scaling in Korea
Authors: Shin Bo-Mi , Heo Jung-Sun , Ryu Jae-In
Published: April 2021

Dental disease is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide, and its expenditure is continuously increasing. Periodontal disease is increasing as a chronic non-communicable disease in adults and older people. Health screening has been shown to be cost-effective and improves the quality of life through the early detection of diseases. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between national health screening and dental scaling as a preventive service for periodontal disease. The study used sample cohort data from 2002 to 2015 provided by the National Health Insurance Sharing Service in South Korea. A logistic regression analysis of the utilization of dental scaling was performed to identify the independent effects of national health screening. People who underwent health screening showed a higher tendency to undergo dental scaling. Additionally, disparities in utilization according to socioeconomic status were reduced among those who underwent screening. The intervention to extend dental coverage could be more beneficial when combined with health screening, encouraging more people to participate and reducing inequalities in utilization.