bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sliding Mode Control with Minimization of the Regulation Time in the Presence of Control Signal and Velocity Constraints
Authors: Pietrala Mateusz , Leśniewski Piotr , Bartoszewicz Andrzej
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the design of the terminal continuous-time sliding mode controller is presented. The influence of the external disturbances is considered. The robustness for the whole regulation process is obtained by adapting the time-varying sliding line. The representative point converges to the demand state in finite time due to the selected shape of the nonlinear switching curve. Absolute values of control signal, system velocity and both of these quantities are bounded from above and considered as system constraints. In order to evaluate the dynamical performance of the system, the settling time is selected as a quality index and it is minimized. The approach presented in this paper is particularly suited for systems in which one state (or a set of states) is the derivative of the other state (or a set of states). This makes it applicable to a wide range of electromechanical systems, in which the states are the position and velocity of the mechanical parts.
Resilience Quantification of Smart Distribution Networks—A Bird’s Eye View Perspective
Authors: Nait Belaid Youba , Coudray Patrick , Sanchez-Torres José , Fang Yi-Ping , Zeng Zhiguo , Barros Anne
Published: May 2021

The introduction of pervasive telecommunication devices, in the scope of smart grids (SGs), has accentuated interest in the distribution network, which integrates a huge portion of new grid applications. High impact low probability (HILP) events, such as natural hazards, manmade errors, and cyber-attacks, as well as the inherent fragility of the distribution grid have propelled the development of effective resilience tools and methods for the power distribution network (PDN) to avoid catastrophic infrastructural and economical losses. Multiple resilience evaluation frameworks are proposed in the literature in order to assist distribution system operators (DSOs) in managing their networks when faced with exogenous threats. We conduct detailed analysis of existing quantitative resilience studies in both electric and telecommunication domains of a PDN, focusing on event type, metrics, temporal phases, uncertainty, and critical load. Our work adopts the standpoint of a DSO, whose target is to identify feasible resilience assessment frameworks, which apply to pre-defined requirements in terms of resilience evaluation objectives (planning, reactive response, or simple assessment), time of evaluation, and available enhancement strategies. Finally, results and observations on selected works are presented, followed by discussion of identified challenges and opportunities.
TIME to Change: An Evaluation of Practical Action Nepal’s Results Based Finance Program
Authors: Robinson Benjamin L. , Clifford Mike J. , Jewitt Sarah
Published: May 2021

Set against the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7, and the need to increase biomass Improved Cookstove (ICS) adoption and sustained use across the globe, this paper presents an evaluation of Practical Action Nepal’s (PAN) Results Based Financing for Improved Cookstove Market Development in Nepal (RBF) project, which was conducted between January and April 2020. Nepal has a long history of International Development assistance, yet 65.8% of rural households still use firewood as their primary source of energy. With this in mind we aimed to understand the barriers, enablers and engagement strategies for the adoption and sustained use of Improved Cookstoves (ICS), map key stakeholder role perceptions and interactions, and identify areas for improvement to increase the sustained use of ICS in the focus communities. This paper uses the methodological approach from the qualitative Technology Implementation Model for Energy (TIME) for the data collection and analysis elements. Our core results show a direct need for improved communication between all key stakeholder groups, the impact of demand and supply side financial incentives in creating reputational risk for community-based key stakeholders, and how the RBF mechanism promotes initial end-user adoption but not sustained use of ICS due to a focus on immediate results.
Quantitative Analysis of the Impact of Meteorological Environment on Photovoltaic System Feasibility
Authors: Ma Dengchang , Pan Guobing , Xu Fang , Sun Hongfei
Published: May 2021

The meteorological environment is a determining factor in photovoltaic (PV) system feasibility (PVSF). To evaluate this impact more accurately, a quantitative analysis model based on multimeteorological factors and the Random Forest Regression model is proposed in this work. Firstly, an evaluation system is established to assess the impact. Then, to predict the indicators of the evaluation system, a parameter, i.e., performance ratio in sampling period, is defined. Secondly, a set of essential influences on the performance ratio in the sampling period is established through analyzing and reducing the discovered influences on the PV system performance. Finally, data from the Desert Knowledge Australia Solar Centre (DKASC) website are used to conduct the experiment. During the experiment, the sample set is cleaned using the model based on the cosine of the zenith angle. The functional relationship between the performance ratio in the sampling period and its essential influences is established through training a Random Forest Regression model with the data of the modeling system. The data of the test system are used to verify the forecast performance of the proposed model. Compared with the reference model, which is based on the traditional physical experiment, the results of the proposed model accord better with the measured values.
Realistic Optimization of Parallelogram-Shaped Offshore Wind Farms Considering Continuously Distributed Wind Resources
Authors: Gonzalez-Rodriguez Angel G. , Serrano-González Javier , Burgos-Payán Manuel , Riquelme-Santos Jesús Manuel
Published: May 2021

Offshore wind power plants are becoming a realistic option for the renewable production of electricity. As an improvement tool to the profitability of OWFs, this work presents the first complete non-genetic (and non-binary) evolutionary algorithm to optimize the location, size and layout of a parallelogram-shaped offshore wind farm, as the arrangement that is becoming an standard for offshore wind farms. It has been tested in the HRI site. Most relevant economic data influencing the investment profitability have been taken into account. In addition, the paper introduces a new approach to offshore wind farm optimization based on a continuous behaviour of varying wind conditions, which allows a more realistic estimation of the energy produced. The proposed optimization approach has been tested based on the available information from HRI. Obtained solutions present similar values to the actual offshore wind farm in terms of investment and annual energy produced, but differs with respect to the optimal orientation and profitability. The contributions of this paper are: it details the first method to interpolate a continuous distribution of wind rose and Weibull parameters; it presents the first algorithm to obtain a realistic optimal solution to the location+sizing+micro-siting problem for regular arrangements; it is prepared to work with the most complete set of economic, bathymetric, and wind data.
Optimization-Driven Powertrain-Oriented Adaptive Cruise Control to Improve Energy Saving and Passenger Comfort
Authors: Anselma Pier Giuseppe
Published: May 2021

Assessing the potential of advanced driver assistance systems requires developing dedicated control algorithms for controlling the longitudinal speed of automated vehicles over time. In this paper, a multiobjective off-line optimal control approach for planning the speed of the following vehicle in adaptive cruise control (ACC) driving is proposed. The implemented method relies on the principle of global optimality fostered by dynamic programming (DP) and aims to minimize propelling energy consumption and enhance passenger comfort. The powertrain model and onboard control system are integrated within the proposed car-following optimization framework. The retained ACC approach ensures that the distance between the following vehicle and the preceding vehicle is always maintained within allowed limits. The flexibility of the proposed method is demonstrated here through ease of implementation on a wide range of powertrain categories, including a conventional vehicle propelled by an internal combustion engine solely, a pure electric vehicle, a parallel P2 hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) and a power-split HEV. Moreover, different driving conditions are considered to prove the effectiveness of the proposed optimization-driven ACC approach. Obtained simulation results suggest that up to 22% energy-saving and 48% passenger comfort improvement might be achieved for the ACC-enabled vehicle compared with the preceding vehicle by implementing the proposed optimization-driven ACC approach. Engineers may adopt the proposed workflow to evaluate corresponding real-time ACC approaches and assess optimal powertrain design solutions for ACC driving.
Short Communication: IPC Salix Cultivar Database Proof-of-Concept
Authors: McGovern Patrick N. , Kuzovkina Yulia A. , Soolanayakanahally Raju Y.
Published: May 2021

A variety of Salix L. (Willow) tree and shrub cultivars provide resources for significant commercial markets such as bioenergy, environmental applications, basket manufacturing, and ornamental selections. The International Poplar Commission of the Food and Agriculture Organization (IPC FAO) has maintained the Checklist for Cultivars of Salix L. (Willow) since 2015 and now lists 968 epithet records in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet format. This Proof-of-Concept (POC) investigates using an SQL database to store existing IPC Salix cultivar information and provide users with a format to compare and submit new Salix cultivar entries. The original IPC data were divided into three separate tables: Epithet, Species, and Family. Then, the data were viewed from three different model perspectives: the original Salix IPC spreadsheet data, the Canadian (PWCC), and the Open4st database. Requirements for this process need to balance database integrity rules with the ease of adding new Salix cultivar entries. An integrated approach from all three models proposed three tables: Epithet, Family, and Pedigree. The Epithet and Family tables also included Species data with a reference to a website link for accepted species names and details. The integrated process provides a more robust method to store and report data, but would require dedicated IT personnel to implement and maintain long-term. A potential use case scenario could involve users submitting their Checklist entries to the Salix administrator for review; the entries are then entered into a test environment by IT resources for final review and promotion to a production online environment. Perhaps the most beneficial outcome of this study is the investigation of various strategies and standards for Epithet and Family recording processes, which may benefit the entire Populus and Salix communities.
Impact of Tree Age and Size on Selected Properties of Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) Wood
Authors: Bijak Szymon , Lachowicz Hubert
Published: May 2021

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) is a non-native tree species that occupies a remarkable area in the forests of western Poland. It is mainly cultivated for the bee-keeping purposes as well as for its high quality wood. We investigated the impact of tree age and diameter on the selected structural, physical and mechanical attributes of wood of black locust that grows in conditions of mesic oligotrophic site. We analysed 200 samples originating from 18 trees that varied with age (38, 60 and 71 years old) and diameter (thin, medium and thick specimen selected according to Hartig’s method). Individual wood properties were determined along with corresponding European or Polish standards. Structural and mechanical attributes were determined for moisture of 12%. We found significant impact of tree age on tree-ring width, latewood proportion, density, oven-dry density, basic density, share of woody substance, porosity, as well as radial, tangential, longitudinal and volumetric shrinkage, compression strength parallel to grain, static bending, coefficient of compression strength parallel to grain and coefficient of static bending. The older the trees, the higher values of individual attributes were observed. In turn, the effect of tree diameter was less profound and no significant impact of that feature was found for latewood proportion, anisotropy and almost all of the shrinkage parameters. Thin trees exhibited the lowest values of the analysed parameters, while medium ones—the highest. In general, the highest technical quality of the investigated wood can be found in the youngest trees, whose wood characterises with the properties significantly exceeding native Polish tree species such as oak or beech.
α-Fodrin in Cytoskeletal Organization and the Activity of Certain Key Microtubule Kinesins
Authors: Sreeja Jamuna S. , Jyothy Athira , Sengupta Suparna
Published: May 2021

Cortical cytoskeletal proteins are significant in controlling various cellular mechanisms such as migration, cell adhesion, intercellular attachment, cellular signaling, exo- and endocytosis and plasma membrane integrity, stability and flexibility. Our earlier studies involving in vitro and ex vivo approaches led us to identify certain undiscovered characteristics of α-fodrin, a prominent cortical protein. The conventional functions attributed to this protein mainly support the plasma membrane. In the present study, we utilized a global protein expression analysis approach to detect underexplored functions of this protein. We report that downregulation of α-fodrin in glioblastoma cells, U-251 MG, results in upregulation of genes affecting the regulation of the cytoskeleton, cell cycle and apoptosis. Interestingly, certain key microtubule kinesins such as KIF23, KIF2B and KIF3C are downregulated upon α-fodrin depletion, as validated by real-time PCR studies.
Comprehensive Transcriptome Analysis of Rare Carpinus putoensis Plants under NO2 stress
Authors: Sheng Qianqian , Liu Congzhe , Song Min , Xu Jingyuan , Zhu Zunling
Published: May 2021

We evaluated a transcriptome using high-throughput Illumina HiSeq sequencing and related it to the morphology, leaf anatomy, and physiological parameters of Carpinus putoensis putoensis under NO2 stress. The molecular mechanism of the C. putoensis NO2 stress response was evaluated using sequencing data. NO2 stress adversely affected the morphology, leaf anatomy, and total peroxidase (POD) activity. Through RNA-seq analysis, we used NCBI to compare the transcripts with nine databases and obtained their functional annotations. We annotated up to 2255 million clean Illumina paired-end RNA-seq reads, and 250,200 unigene sequences were assembled based on the resulting transcriptome data. More than 89% of the C. putoensis transcripts were functionally annotated. Under NO2 stress, 1119 genes were upregulated and 1240 were downregulated. According to the KEGG pathway and GO analyses, photosynthesis, chloroplasts, plastids, and the stimulus response are related to NO2 stress. Additionally, NO2 stress changed the expression of POD families, and the HPL2, HPL1, and POD genes exhibited high expression. The transcriptome analysis of C. putoensis leaves under NO2 stress supplies a reference for studying the molecular mechanism of C. putoensis resistance to NO2 stress. The given transcriptome data represent a valuable resource for studies on plant genes, which will contribute towards genome annotations during future genome projects.
Stiffness and Strength of Stabilized Organic Soils—Part II/II: Parametric Analysis and Modeling with Machine Learning
Authors: Yousefpour Negin , Medina-Cetina Zenon , Hernandez-Martinez Francisco , Al-Tabbaa Abir
Published: May 2021

Predicting the range of achievable strength and stiffness from stabilized soil mixtures is critical for engineering design and construction, especially for organic soils, which are often considered “unsuitable” due to their high compressibility and the lack of knowledge about their mechanical behavior after stabilization. This study investigates the mechanical behavior of stabilized organic soils using machine learning (ML) methods. ML algorithms were developed and trained using a database from a comprehensive experimental study (see Part I), including more than one thousand unconfined compression tests on organic clay samples stabilized by wet soil mixing (WSM) technique. Three different ML methods were adopted and compared, including two artificial neural networks (ANN) and a linear regression method. ANN models proved reliable in the prediction of the stiffness and strength of stabilized organic soils, significantly outperforming linear regression models. Binder type, mixing ratio, soil organic and water content, sample size, aging, temperature, relative humidity, and carbonation were the control variables (input parameters) incorporated into the ML models. The impacts of these factors were evaluated through rigorous ANN-based parametric analyses. Additionally, the nonlinear relations of stiffness and strength with these parameters were developed, and their optimum ranges were identified through the ANN models. Overall, the robust ML approach presented in this paper can significantly improve the mixture design for organic soil stabilization and minimize the experimental cost for implementing WSM in engineering projects.
Is There Such a Thing as Hunter-Gatherer Archaeology?
Authors: Warren Graeme
Published: May 2021

This paper examines two related questions: firstly, whether there is a distinctive field of practice that might be called “hunter-gatherer archaeology” and which is different than other kinds of archaeology, and secondly, how such a claim might be justified. This question is considered through four prisms: (1) whether hunter-gatherers provide a unitary object of research; (2) whether hunter-gatherer archaeology is the same in different parts of the world; (3) whether hunter-gatherer archaeology is characterised by distinctive forms of archaeological record; and (4) whether there are distinctive themes within the field. None of these approaches provide a single unifying core, with any definition at best a constellation of “partially shared features” and with considerable difficulties surrounding the uncritical continued use of the concept of hunter-gatherers, which is linked to colonial ideologies and practices. Rather than provide a single unitary answer, it is proposed that the value and legitimacy of the concept of “hunter gatherer archaeology” requires consideration in the local contexts within which it might be used. In the European context within which I work, the broader social significance of the idea of the hunter-gatherer provides a significant opportunity for the development of a self-reflexive and publicly engaged hunter-gatherer archaeology committed to decoloniality. In this context, the potentials that the idea of a “hunter-gatherer archaeology” provides can, with caution, justify the continued use of the term. This answer will not characterise other locations, especially in colonised nations.
Remdesivir Treatment for COVID 19 in Pregnant Patients with Moderate to Severe Symptoms: Serial Case Report
Authors: Saroyo Yudianto Budi , Rumondang Amanda , Febriana Irene Sinta , Harzif Achmad Kemal , Irwinda Rima
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection that causes novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a major health problem worldwide and been declared a pandemic since March 2020 by WHO. One special population that poses a challenge is pregnant women with COVID-19. There have not been many studies related to COVID-19 in pregnancy. In this study, we present five serial cases of Remdesivir treatment for COVID-19 in pregnant women with moderate to severe symptoms. Case Illustration: We briefly describe five serial cases being treated with Remdesivir therapy during hospitalization. Four cases were delivered by cesarean section, and one was delivered vaginally in gestation week 37. All cases showed a shortened duration of hospitalization, rapid improvement in clinical symptoms, and no adverse events were observed in mothers, fetuses, and neonates. Discussion: Remdesivir, an inhibitor RNA Polymerase, has been used in COVID-19 treatment and is known to shorten recovery time in nonpregnant women. Some studies have shown no adverse effects on Remdesivir for pregnant women. Based on randomized control trial (RCT) during the Ebola epidemic, Remdesivir was safe to use for pregnant women. All cases showed reduced hospitalization time and better clinical outcomes without maternal, fetal, or neonatal adverse events. Conclusion: Remdesivir protocol for pregnant women with moderate to severe symptoms of COVID-19 has resulted in better clinical improvement with a shorter recovery period and no adverse effects during the hospitalization period. Further studies and RCT are warranted to evaluate the biosafety and effects of Remdesivir in pregnant women.
An Experimental Evidence on Public Acceptance of Genetically Modified Food through Advertisement Framing on Health and Environmental Benefits, Objective Knowledge, and Risk Reduction
Authors: Raza Syed Hassan , Zaman Umer , Ferreira Paulo , Farías Pablo
Published: May 2021

Owing to the emerging challenges on global food security and the decade of controversies over genetically modified food (hereafter GMF), the present study aims to explore the effects of advertisement framing on health and environmental benefits, sources of perceived risk reduction, and domain-specific knowledge on the acceptance of GMF. The study conducted a quasi-experimental factorial 2 (advertisement message framing: health vs. environmental benefits) × 2 (expert endorsement: present vs. absent) between-subject design involving 300 adult participants from Pakistan. Using a multi-group structural equation model, the four conditions were assigned to each participant group (n = 75) to test the hypothesized relationships. The quasi-experiment results suggested that the advertisement messages (ad-framed) incorporated with the health and environmental benefits, as delineated by experts, can be a viable communication strategy in developing effortless cognitive cues towards GMF acceptance. The pioneer findings validate the significant efficacy of advertisement messages (ad-framed with expert opinions) in reducing perceived risk through augmented objective knowledge that activates the mechanism of favorable development of attitude and acceptance of GMF. The study findings offer strategic directions to policymakers, marketers, and food technologists in raising greater awareness and acceptance towards GMF products.
Economic Stress at Work: Its Impact over Absenteeism and Innovation
Authors: Sanchez-Gomez Martin , Giorgi Gabriele , Finstad Georgia Libera , Alessio Federico , Ariza-Montes Antonio , Arcangeli Giulio , Mucci Nicola
Published: May 2021

Economic stress has been recognized as a major threat to the well-being and performance of workers, especially during times of global economic crisis. An interesting and relatively unexplored research topic concerns the associations between economic stress and employee job outcomes such as innovative behaviors, indispensable for business survival. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between economic stress, absenteeism and innovation. We considered both a direct and a mediation hypothesis and hypothesized that economic stress can have a negative influence on innovation directly and indirectly through increased absenteeism. A cross-sectional study was performed during 2018 and 2019 in an Italian food factory. A sample of 578 employees completed the Stress Questionnaire, the Janssen’s nine-item scale and a single-item regarding absenteeism. All relationships are supported by empirical data. As expected, the results indicated that economic stress is negatively related to innovation and positively related to absenteeism, which, in turn, plays a mediating role in the relationship between economic stress and innovative behavior. Herewith, those employees with higher levels of economic stress show higher levels of absenteeism contributing at the same time to a decrease in innovative behaviors. These findings show the importance of economic stress in understanding individual work outcomes and highlight the need to promote adequate intervention programs.
Effects of an Existential Nursing Intervention for College Students in the COVID-19 Pandemic Situation
Authors: Cho Sunhee , Jang Sun Joo
Published: May 2021

This study designed an intervention based on logo-autobiography to reduce Korean college students’ stress and depression and help them find meaning in their lives amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. A quasi-experimental design was used to conduct group interventions among college students. A total of 22 and 26 participants were included in the experimental and control groups, respectively. The experimental group received six sessions of a logo-autobiography for college students (LAC). The effects of the LAC interventions were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and four weeks after the program’s end to determine their retention rate. The effects of group, time, and the group-by-time interaction were verified using generalized estimating equations with an autoregressive correlation structure. The experimental group exhibited significantly lower levels of stress and depression and higher levels concerning the meaning of life than the control group. However, only the effects on stress and the meaning of life continued four weeks after the intervention’s end. Based on this study’s results, LAC can be considered a useful method for reducing stress and depression in college students who have just started their adult life, as well as for aiding them in their pursuit for the meaning of life.
Influence of Indoor Temperature Exposure on Emergency Department Visits Due to Infectious and Non-Infectious Respiratory Diseases for Older People
Authors: Jung Chien-Cheng , Chen Nai-Tzu , Hsia Ying-Fang , Hsu Nai-Yun , Su Huey-Jen
Published: May 2021

Previous studies have demonstrated that outdoor temperature exposure was an important risk factor for respiratory diseases. However, no study investigates the effect of indoor temperature exposure on respiratory diseases and further assesses cumulative effect. The objective of this study is to study the cumulative effect of indoor temperature exposure on emergency department visits due to infectious (IRD) and non-infectious (NIRD) respiratory diseases among older adults. Subjects were collected from the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database in Taiwan. The cumulative degree hours (CDHs) was used to assess the cumulative effect of indoor temperature exposure. A distributed lag nonlinear model with quasi-Poisson function was used to analyze the association between CDHs and emergency department visits due to IRD and NIRD. For IRD, there was a significant risk at 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31 °C when the CDHs exceeded 69, 40, 14, 5, and 1 during the cooling season (May to October), respectively, and at 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23 °C when the CDHs exceeded 8, 1, 1, 35, and 62 during the heating season (November to April), respectively. For NIRD, there was a significant risk at 19, 20, 21, 22, and 23 °C when the CDHs exceeded 1, 1, 16, 36, and 52 during the heating season, respectively; the CDHs at 1 was only associated with the NIRD at 31 °C during the cooling season. Our data also indicated that the CDHs was lower among men than women. We conclude that the cumulative effects of indoor temperature exposure should be considered to reduce IRD risk in both cooling and heating seasons and NIRD risk in heating season and the cumulative effect on different gender.
Factors Associated with SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Physician Trainees in New York City during the First COVID-19 Wave
Authors: Pawloski Kate R. , Kolod Betty , Khan Rabeea F. , Midya Vishal , Chen Tania , Oduwole Adeyemi , Camins Bernard , Colicino Elena , Leitman I. Michael , Nabeel Ismail , Oliver Kristin , Valvi Damaskini
Published: May 2021

Occupational and non-occupational risk factors for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have been reported in healthcare workers (HCWs), but studies evaluating risk factors for infection among physician trainees are lacking. We aimed to identify sociodemographic, occupational, and community risk factors among physician trainees during the first wave of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in New York City. In this retrospective study of 328 trainees at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City, we administered a survey to assess risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 infection between 1 February and 30 June 2020. SARS-CoV-2 infection was determined by self-reported and laboratory-confirmed IgG antibody and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction test results. We used Bayesian generalized linear mixed effect regression to examine associations between hypothesized risk factors and infection odds. The cumulative incidence of infection was 20.1%. Assignment to medical-surgical units (OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.18–5.34), and training in emergency medicine, critical care, and anesthesiology (OR, 2.93; 95% CI, 1.24–6.92) were independently associated with infection. Caring for unfamiliar patient populations was protective (OR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.03–0.73). Community factors were not statistically significantly associated with infection after adjustment for occupational factors. Our findings may inform tailored infection prevention strategies for physician trainees responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Can Social Prescribing Foster Individual and Community Well-Being? A Systematic Review of the Evidence
Authors: Vidovic Dragana , Reinhardt Gina Yannitell , Hammerton Clare
Published: May 2021

Social prescribing programmes (SP) are person-centred coaching schemes meant to help participants improve individual circumstances, thereby to reduce demand on health and social care. SP could be an innovative means to improve preventive and public health in the pursuit of universal financially sustainable healthcare. Given its potential, our systematic review assesses type, content, and quality of evidence available regarding SP effectiveness at the individual, system, and community levels. We examine the impact of SP on addressing loneliness, social isolation, well-being, and connectedness, as well as related concepts, which are not yet considered jointly in one study. Following PRISMA, we search: EBSCOHost (CINAHL Complete; eBook Collection; E-Journals; MEDLINE Full Text; Open Dissertations; PsycARTICLES; PsycINFO); Web of Science Core Collection; and UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Excluding systematic reviews and articles without impact evaluations, we review 51 studies. Several studies do not distinguish between core concepts and/or provide information on the measures used to assess outcomes; exactly one peer-reviewed study presents a randomised controlled trial. If we wish to know the potential of social prescribing to lead to universal financially sustainable healthcare, we urge researchers and practitioners to standardise definitions and metrics, and to explore conceptual linkages between social prescribing and system/community outcomes.
Somatic Characteristics and Special Motor Fitness of Young Top-Level Polish Table Tennis Players
Authors: Pluta Beata , Galas Szymon , Krzykała Magdalena , Andrzejewski Marcin , Podciechowska Karolina
Published: May 2021

In the present study, we aimed to identify the impact of chosen anthropometric measurements on the special physical fitness of elite junior table tennis players at different stages of sport training. A total of 87 table tennis players aged 13.4 ± 1.74 years (43.7% girls and 56.3% boys) from two Polish teams were analyzed. The anthropometry measurements included height, sitting height, body weight, arm span, humerus and femur breadths, five skinfold thicknesses, and five girths were assessed. Participants’ somatotypes were also calculated using the Heath–Carter method as well as body mass index (BMI), which was constructed using the lambda, mu, sigma (LMS) method. Body composition via a bioelectric impedance analysis was also analyzed. The level of special fitness of athletes was determined using tests from the Table Tennis Specific Battery Test, assessing reaction and displacement speeds. Mesomorphic (4.1) and ectomorphic (3.8) profiles were registered for boys and girls, respectively. Boys achieved higher scores than girls for almost all variables, with the exception of ectomorphic somatotype (p = 0.274), skinfold triceps (p = 0.444), and calf skinfold medial (p = 0.609). The relationship between the body height, thickness of the skinfolds of the triceps and suprailiac, biceps, and waist circumference and arm span in all three motor tests was observed, simultaneously significantly higher results were obtained by competitors at the specialist stage of training. Knowledge of the somatic and motor characteristics of young athletes can help coaches in creating a specific training program for improved health and performance, taking into consideration the athletes’ biological development, potential, and pre-disposition.
Barriers and Benefits of the Scheduled Telephone Referral Model (DETELPROG): A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Azogil-López Luis Miguel , Coronado-Vázquez Valle , Pérez-Lázaro Juan José , Gómez-Salgado Juan , Medrano-Sánchez Esther María
Published: May 2021

The recently developed scheduled mobile-telephone referral model (DETELPROG) has achieved especially important results in reducing waiting days for patients, but it has been decided to explore what barriers and positive aspects were detected by both primary care physicians (PCPs) and hospital attending physicians (HAPs) regarding its use. For this, a qualitative descriptive study was carried out through six semi-structured interviews and two focus groups in a sample of eleven PCPs and five HAPs. Interviews were carried out from September 2019 to February 2020. Data were analysed by creating the initial categories, recording the sessions, transcribing the information, by doing a comprehensive reading of the texts obtained, and analysing the contents. The results show that DETELPROG gives the PCP greater prominence as a patient’s health coordinator by improving their relationship and patient safety; it also improves the relationship between PCP and HAP, avoiding unnecessary face-to-face referrals and providing safety to the PCP when making decisions. The barriers for DETELPROG to be used by PCP were defensive medicine, patients’ skepticism in DETELPROG, healthcare burden, and inability to focus on the patient or interpret a sign, symptom, or diagnostic test. For HAP, the barriers were lack of confidence in the PCP and complexity of the patient. As a conclusion, DETELPROG referral model provides a lot of advantages and does not pose any new barrier to face-to-face referral or other non-face-to-face referral models, so it should be implemented in primary care.
Impacts of Industrial Restructuring and Technological Progress on PM2.5 Pollution: Evidence from Prefecture-Level Cities in China
Authors: Xu Ning , Zhang Fan , Xuan Xin
Published: May 2021

PM2.5 pollution has produced adverse effects all over the world, especially in fast-developing China. PM2.5 pollution in China is widespread and serious, which has aroused widespread concern of the government, the public and scholars. This paper evaluates the evolution trend and spatial pattern of PM2.5 pollution in China based on the data of 281 prefecture-level cities in China from 2007 to 2017, and reveals the pollution situation of PM2.5 and its relationship with industrial restructuring and technological progress by using spatial dynamic panel model. The results show that China’s PM2.5 pollution has significant path dependence and spatial correlation, and the industrial restructuring and technological progress have significant positive effects on alleviating PM2.5 pollution. As a decomposition item of technological progress, technical change effectively alleviates PM2.5 pollution. Another important discovery is that the interaction between industrial restructuring and technological progress will aggravate PM2.5 pollution. Finally, in order to effectively improve China’s air quality, while advocating the Chinese government to pursue high-quality development, this paper puts forward a regional joint prevention mechanism.
Updating Standards of Facial Growth in Romanian Children and Adolescents Using the Anthropometric Method—A Pilot Study
Authors: Ogodescu Emilia , Popa Malina , Luca Magda , Igna Andreea , Miron Mariana , Martha Krisztina , Tudor Anca , Todea Carmen
Published: May 2021

The anthropometric method is an important tri-dimensional and non-invasive assessment instrument for accurate diagnosis in paedodontics, orthodontics, and other medical fields. Our aim was to propose a technique that is accessible for clinicians and to determine the reference values for Romanian children and adolescents for the facial parameters selected. We proposed three basic instruments: a plastic compass, a ruler, and a digital caliper. Eighty-five children and adolescents (62% girls and 38% boys), aged between 3.5 and 14.5 years, were included in the study. We selected eight transversal, 12 vertical, and three sagittal measurements. Facial indices, according to Farkas L.G., were directly determined. The correlations between facial and general growth parameters, using Pearson correlation coefficient, for the entire sample were significant, direct, and strong for the following: Zy-Zy, Go-Go, N-Gn, N-Sn, Sto-Gn, Tr-Gn, Tr-Sn, Tr-Tr (r = 0.526–0.925, p < 0.001), and insignificant for Sn-Sto (r = 0.099–0.124, p > 0.354). The highest correlation coefficient is exhibited by Tr-Gn (r = 0.893 with height and r = 0.925 with weight). When performing a gender related comparison, we noticed that the vertical and transversal linear parameters and some facial indices are increased in boys (p < 0.05), depending on the age group. The simplified anthropometric technique represents an accessible method to every clinician, bringing important information related to dentofacial growth, diagnosis, and treatment planning in dentistry.
Prenatal HIV Test Uptake and Its Associated Factors for Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV in East Africa
Authors: Astawesegn Feleke Hailemichael , Stulz Virginia , Agho Kingsley E. , Mannan Haider , Conroy Elizabeth , Ogbo Felix Akpojene
Published: May 2021

Identifying the socioeconomic and structural issues that act as enablers and/or barriers to HIV testing services is critical in combatting HIV/AIDS amongst mothers and children in Africa. In this study, we used a weighted sample of 46,645 women aged 15–49 who gave birth in the two years preceding the survey from the recent DHS dataset of ten East African countries. Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate the factors associated with prenatal HIV test uptake in East Africa. The overall prenatal HIV test uptake for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV was 80.8% (95% CI: 74.5–78.9%) in East Africa, with highest in Rwanda (97.9%, 95% CI: 97.2–98.3%) and lowest in Comoros (17.0%, 95% CI: 13.9–20.7%). Common factors associated with prenatal HIV test service uptake were higher maternal education level (AOR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.10–1.50 for primary education and AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.53–2.51 for secondary or higher education), higher partner education level (AOR = 1.24; 95% CI: 1.06–1.45 for primary education and AOR = 1.56; 95% CI: 1.26–1.94 for secondary or higher school), women from higher household wealth index (AOR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.11–1.50 for middle wealth index; AOR = 1.57; 95% CL: 1.17–2.11 for rich wealth index), improved maternal exposure to the media, and increased awareness about MTCT of HIV. However, residents living in rural communities (AOR = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.51–0.85) and travelling long distances to the health facility (AOR = 0.8; 95% CI: 0.69–0.91) were associated with non-use of prenatal HIV test service in East African countries. In each East African country, factors associated with prenatal HIV test uptake for PMTCT varied. In conclusion, the pooled prenatal HIV test uptake for PMTCT of HIV was low in East Africa compared to the global target. Scaling up interventions to improve enablers whilst addressing barriers to the use of prenatal HIV test services are essential to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in East African countries.
Virtual Reality-Based Cognitive Stimulation on People with Mild to Moderate Dementia due to Alzheimer’s Disease: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Oliveira Jorge , Gamito Pedro , Souto Teresa , Conde Rita , Ferreira Maria , Corotnean Tatiana , Fernandes Adriano , Silva Henrique , Neto Teresa
Published: May 2021

The use of ecologically oriented approaches with virtual reality (VR) depicting instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) is a promising approach for interventions on acquired brain injuries. However, the results of such an approach on dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are still lacking. This research reports on a pilot randomized controlled trial that aimed to explore the effect of a cognitive stimulation reproducing several IADL in VR on people with mild-to-moderate dementia caused by AD. Patients were recruited from residential care homes of Santa Casa da Misericórdia da Amadora (SCMA), which is a relevant nonprofit social and healthcare provider in Portugal. This intervention lasted two months, with a total of 10 sessions (two sessions/week). A neuropsychological assessment was carried out at the baseline and follow-up using established neuropsychological instruments for assessing memory, attention, and executive functions. The sample consisted of 17 patients of both genders randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups. The preliminary results suggested an improvement in overall cognitive function in the experimental group, with an effect size corresponding to a large effect in global cognition, which suggests that this approach is effective for neurocognitive stimulation in older adults with dementia, contributing to maintaining cognitive function in AD.
Design of Nature Tourism Route in Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, Ecuador
Authors: Castillo-Vizuete Danny , Gavilanes-Montoya Alex , Chávez-Velásquez Carlos , Benalcázar-Vergara Paúl , Mestanza-Ramón Carlos
Published: May 2021

The design of new routes is a specific strategy to improve tourism management and to increase the attractiveness of landscape features, promoting activities as a part of sustainable development. This study proposes the design of alternative multi-parameter tourist routes in the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve based on spatial network analysis implemented in ArcGIS 10.5® software. Tourist interest points were identified and mapped using spatial analysis software, then two routes for bicycles and hiking were defined as being the most efficient, based on the most frequented tourist attractions. The main contribution of this study is the identification of optimal routes for vehicular, bicycling, and hiking traffic through tourist attractions, considering variables such as the time, distance, average circulation speed, road state, and tourist facilities. As a result, two routes were identified. Route one includes 17 tourist attractions, five lodging establishments, four food centers, and one health center. On the other hand, route two includes 11 tourist attractions, two lodging and food establishments, and one health center. The final contribution of this research is to maximize tour satisfaction by presenting new routes of visiting tourist attractions due to the growing demand in the Chimborazo Reserve.
Digital Quantification of Occlusal Contacts: A Methodological Study
Authors: Sigvardsson Jacob , Nilsson Samuel , Ransjö Maria , Westerlund Anna
Published: May 2021

Objective: To compare the reliability of digital occlusal contacts quantification and the validity of digital occlusal contacts quantification with traditional methods used for occlusal contact determination. Subjects and Methods: Thirty participants, all of whom were students at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg in Gothenburg, Sweden, were included in the study. Three different methods were used to evaluate occlusal contacts: (I) a digital examination of the patients’ casts, using the Ortho 3D Models (O3DM) software and measuring the total occlusal contact area in square millimeters (DE); (II) an examination involving the measurement of the total number of occlusal contacts on stone casts mounted in an articulator (AE); and (III) a clinical examination with the measurement of the total number of occlusal contacts with 8 μm-thick articulating foil (CE). Results: The repeated digital measurements (same casts scanned multiple times) showed a significant correlation of 0.85 (p < 0.01), which shows a diagnostic consistency. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between the results obtained with the DE method and the AE of 0.41 (p < 0.05), and between those acquired with the AE method and the CE of 0.37 (p < 0.05). However, no significant correlation was found between the DE method and the CE method with a correlation coefficient of 0.10 (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Digital casts can be used for quantification of the total occlusal contact area (in mm2) owing to the high reliability of repeated measurements and the strong validity of the method compared to traditionally employed stone cast measurements.
Measurement Invariance in the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) Scale among English-Speaking Whites and Asians
Authors: Kato Tsukasa
Published: May 2021

The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) Scale has been widely used to measure depressive symptoms. This study compared the measurement invariances for one-, two-, three-, and four-factor models of the CES-D across English-speaking Whites and Asians: White Americans, White Australians, Indians, Filipinos, and Singaporeans. White Americans and Australians, Indians, Filipinos, and Singaporeans English speakers (782 men and 824 women) whose ages ranged from 20 to 79 years, completed the CES-D. They were recruited from the data pool of the 2013 and 2014 Coping and Health Survey. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that the original four-factor model showed the best fit, compared to the other models. Mean and covariance structure analyses showed that the factor means of the CES-D subscales among Whites were significantly lower than were those among Asians; the score gap was particularly high between Whites and Indians. Additionally, Indians scored the highest on all subscales of the CES-D compared to all other countries. Overall, CES-D scores among Whites were lower than those among Asians.