bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Closed-Loop Combustion Optimization Based on Dynamic and Adaptive Models with Application to a Coal-Fired Boiler
Authors: Zhu Chuanpeng , Huang Pu , Li Yiguo
Published: July 2022

To increase combustion efficiency and reduce pollutant emissions, this study presents an online closed-loop optimization method and its application in a boiler combustion system. To begin with, three adaptive dynamic models are established to predict NOx emission, the carbon content of fly ash (Cfh), and exhaust gas temperature (Teg), respectively. In these models, the orders of the input variables are considered to enable them to reflect the dynamics of the combustion system under load changes. Meanwhile, an adaptive least squares support vector machine (ALSSVM) algorithm is adopted to cope with the nonlinearity and the time-varying characteristics of the combustion system. Subsequently, based on the established models, an economic model predictive control (EMPC) problem is formulated and solved by a sequential quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm to calculate the optimal control variables satisfying the constraints on the control and control moves. The closed-loop optimization system is applied on a 600 MW boiler, and the performance analysis is conducted based on the operation data. The results show that the system can effectively increase boiler efficiency by about 0.5%.
Hybrid Game Optimization of Microgrid Cluster (MC) Based on Service Provider (SP) and Tiered Carbon Price
Authors: Feng Fei , Du Xin , Si Qiang , Cai Hao
Published: July 2022

Carbon trading is a market-based mechanism towards low-carbon electric power systems. A hy-brid game optimization model is established for deriving the optimal trading price between mi-crogrids (MGs) as well as providing the optimal pricing scheme for trading between the microgrid cluster(MC) and the upper-layer service provider (SP). At first, we propose a robust optimization model of microgrid clusters from the perspective of risk aversion, in which the uncertainty of wind and photovoltaic (PV) output is modeled with resort to the information gap decision theo-ry(IGDT). Finally, based on the Nash bargaining theory, the electric power transaction payment model between MGs is established, and the alternating direction multiplier method (ADMM) is used to solve it, thus effectively protecting the privacy of each subject. It shows that the proposed strategy is able to quantify the uncertainty of wind and PV factors on dispatching operations. At the same time, carbon emission could be effectively reduced by following the tiered carbon price scheme.
Laser Profilometry on Micro-PTC
Authors: Marotta Gianluca , Fontani Daniela , Francini Franco , Jafrancesco David , De Lucia Maurizio , Sansoni Paola
Published: July 2022

Profilometry is useful in detecting surface faults on solar concentrators, which can be imperfectly manufactured, thus affecting system performance. Profilometric analyses are performed on a micro-parabolic trough collector (m-PTC), with reduced sizes and greater mirror curvature than a usual PTC. The peculiar dimensions and shape of this micro-PTC request to develop a specific configuration of laser profilometry. It includes a laser diode with a converging lens placed in front of it, ensuring that the mirror curvature does not affect the beam reflection. A new method to calculate the spot position furnishes the reflected beam center even if it lies outside the target, giving it a virtual expansion. The profile is assessed with an iterative calculation, starting from a first point, physically measured. The results are the 3D profile reconstruction of the parabolic mirror and a map of the slope error for each mirror point. It also estimates the intercept factor, a parameter fundamental to optimize the m-PTC system, whose value is in agreement with a structured light measurement on the same object. This intercept factor was obtained averaging the local intercept factor calculated for each mirror point, which individuates the mirror portions not focusing the sunrays on the tube.
Solar Farms as the Only Power Source for the Entire Country
Authors: Manowska Anna , Nowrot Andrzej
Published: July 2022

The presented paper shows a hypothetical large solar farm that would be the only source of electricity for the entire country. The energy crisis in Europe raises the question of whether it is possible to supply an electrical system based only on renewable energy sources. What should the surface area of the solar panels be in a hypothetical large solar farm to power the entire country? In this work, we will show what requirements must be met to make this feasible. Very important differences between the installed power capacity in a coal-fired or nuclear power plant and a solar power plant are discussed. The article presents calculations of the surface area of photovoltaic panels in that solar farm for four exemplary countries in Central Europe: Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. These studies are particularly important for Poland, whose electrical system is still mainly based on coal-fired power plants. The hypothetical solar farm could, in practice, take the form of dozens of solar power plants located in different parts of the country. Most importantly, the proposed solution will counteract climate change.
Effects of Land Use Conversion on the Soil Microbial Community Composition and Functionality in the Urban Wetlands of North-Eastern China
Authors: Wu Yining , Gao Weifeng , Zou Yu , Dong Haiyan , Yu Fei , Wang He , Zong Cheng
Published: July 2022

Urban wetlands are undergoing intensive conversion from natural wetlands to farmlands, woodlands, and even alkaline land. This study aimed to determine the effects of land conversion on soil microbial communities of urban wetlands in the hinterland of Songnen Plain, Northeastern China. Soil samples were collected from various sites of Longfeng wetland, including swamp wetland (SW), meadow wetland (MW), woodland (WL), farmland (FL), and alkaline land (AL). High-throughput sequencing followed by bioinformatic analysis was conducted to evaluate the structure, composition, and function of soil bacterial and fungal communities. The most dominant bacterial and fungal phylum among the land-use types were Proteobacteria and Ascomycota, respectively. In addition, the bacterial diversity and functions varied significantly across different land-use types. However, no remarkable differences in fungal communities were observed under various land-use types. Edaphic parameters, including exchange sodium percent (ESP) and total nitrogen (TN), remarkably influenced the abundance and diversity of soil microbial communities. These results show that land-use type shapes various aspects of soil microbial communities, including soil physicochemical properties, microbial taxa structure, potential functional genes, and correlation with environmental factors. This study provides reliable data to guide land use management and supervision by decision-makers in this region.
Influence of Strip Clearcuts, Deer Exclusion and Herbicide on Initial Sapling Recruitment in Northern Hardwood Forests
Authors: Hupperts Stefan F. , Webster Christopher R. , Froese Robert E. , Bal Brandon , Dickinson Yvette L.
Published: July 2022

Sapling recruitment in hardwood forests is often suppressed by overstory shade, interspecific competition, and browsing pressure from white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus Zimmerman). In some northern hardwood stands, these three interacting factors may cause persistent recruitment failure of the dominant canopy species, sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh.), into the sapling size class. In this study, we compared initial (two-year) sugar maple and hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana ((Mill.) K. Koch) seedling and sapling recruitment in strip clearcuts to strip selection cuts, with combinations of herbicide and deer exclosures, in a northern hardwood forest with limited sugar maple sapling recruitment. We found that sugar maple sapling recruitment was higher in exclosures, particularly in strip clearcuts. Moreover, mixed models predicted that exclosures in strip clearcuts with herbicide tended to benefit sugar maple sapling recruitment, especially when the pre-treatment density was less than ~1500 stems ha−1. Sapling density of hophornbeam was also promoted in exclosure plots but was negatively affected by herbicide. Graminoid and Rubus spp. cover was also limited by herbicide following harvest, potentially alleviating constraints on future sugar maple sapling recruitment. Our findings indicate that sugar maple sapling recruitment in strip clearcuts is similar to strip selection cuts unless browsing pressure and interspecific competition are also alleviated.
High-Level Production of Catechol from Glucose by Engineered Escherichia coli
Authors: Song Guotian , Wu Fengli , Peng Yanfeng , Jiang Xiaolong , Wang Qinhong
Published: July 2022

Catechol (CA) is an aromatic compound with important applications in the fine chemical and pharmaceutical fields. As an alternative strategy to petroleum-based chemical synthesis, the production of catechol by using microbial cell factories has attracted great interest. However, the toxicity of catechol to microbial cells significantly limits the efficient production of bio-based catechol via one-step fermentation. Therefore, in this study, a two-step strategy for the efficient synthesis of CA was designed. Protocatechuic acid (PCA) was first efficiently produced by the engineered Escherichia coli strain AAA01 via fermentation, and then PCA in the fermentative broth was converted into CA by the whole-cell biocatalyst AAA12 with PCA decarboxylase. By optimizing the expression of flavin isoprenyl transferases and protocatechuic acid decarboxylases, the titer of CA increased from 3.4 g/L to 15.8 g/L in 12 h through whole-cell biocatalysis, with a 365% improvement; after further optimizing the reaction conditions for whole-cell biocatalysis, the titer of CA achieved 17.7 g/L within 3 h, which is the highest titer reported so far. This work provides an effective strategy for the green biomanufacturing of toxic compounds by Escherichia coli cell factories.
How to Reduce Food Waste Caused by Normative Illusion? A Study Based on Evolutionary Game Model Analysis
Authors: Tian Mengling , Zheng Yangyang
Published: July 2022

Reducing food waste is a priority for all sectors of society as it threatens national food security and the sustainability of global agriculture. Many studies on food waste have focused on a single subject, and the psychological factors of consumer waste are often overlooked. Based on evolutionary game theory, this paper introduces consumers’ normative illusion, constructs an evolutionary game model in which the government, caterers and consumers collaborate to reduce food waste, and simulates and analyses the behavioural strategies of the three stakeholders. The results show that: Firstly, food waste can be reduced under certain conditions by incentive-guided and punishment-inhibited policies. Moreover, incentive-guided policies can reduce government expenditures more than punishment-inhibited ones. Secondly, implementation of prior intervention, the resultant intervention and reducing the probability of consumers’ aversion to the intervention of caterers can optimise the government’s punishment-inhibited policy. Finally, under the punishment-inhibited policy, caterers can bear 60% of the prior intervention costs for food waste management. When caterers invest 40–60% of the prior intervention costs, both caterers and consumers can achieve the ideal state of cooperation; caterers can accept 40% of the resultant intervention cost for food waste management, and when the resultant intervention cost is less than 40%, consumers choose not to waste. Both caterers and consumers are involved in reducing food waste when the probability of consumer dissatisfaction with a caterer’s intervention is reduced to less than 40%.
The Power of Travel Search Data in Forecasting the Tourism Demand in Dubai
Authors: Rashad Ahmed Shoukry
Published: July 2022

Tourism plays an important economic role for many economies and after the COVID-19 pandemic, accurate tourism forecasting become critical for policymakers in tourism-dependent economies. This paper extends the growing literature on the use of internet search data in tourism forecasting through evaluating the predictive ability of Destination Insight with Google, a new Google product designed to monitor tourism recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper is the first attempt to explore the forecasting ability of the new Google data. The study focuses on the case of Dubai, given its status as a world-leading tourism destination. The study uses time series models that account for seasonality, trending variables, and structural breaks. The study uses monthly data for the period of January 2019 to April 2022. We explore whether the internet travel search queries can improve the forecasting of tourist arrivals to Dubai from the UK. We evaluate the accuracy of forecasts after incorporating the Google variable in our model. Our findings suggest that the new Google data can significantly improve tourism forecasting and serves as a leading indicator of tourism demand.
Minkowski’s Loop Fractal Antenna Dedicated to Sixth Generation (6G) Communication
Authors: Paun Maria-Alexandra , Nichita Mihai-Virgil , Paun Vladimir-Alexandru , Paun Viorel-Puiu
Published: July 2022

In this study, we will discuss the engineering construction of a special sixth generation (6G) antenna, based on the fractal called Minkowski’s loop. The antenna has the shape of this known fractal, set at four iterations, to obtain maximum performance. The frequency bands for which this 6G fractal antenna was designed in the current paper are 170 GHz to 260 GHz (WR-4) and 110 GHz to 170 GHz (WR-6), respectively. The three resonant frequencies, optimally used, are equal to 140 GHz (WR-6) for the first, 182 GHz (WR-4) for the second and 191 GHz (WR-4) for the third. For these frequencies the electromagnetic behaviors of fractal antennas and their graphical representations are highlighted.
Haemolysis Detection in MicroRNA-Seq from Clinical Plasma Samples
Authors: Smith Melanie D. , Leemaqz Shalem Y. , Jankovic-Karasoulos Tanja , McAninch Dale , McCullough Dylan , Breen James , Roberts Claire T. , Pillman Katherine A.
Published: July 2022

The abundance of cell-free microRNA (miRNA) has been measured in blood plasma and proposed as a source of novel, minimally invasive biomarkers for several diseases. Despite improvements in quantification methods, there is no consensus regarding how haemolysis affects plasma miRNA content. We propose a method for haemolysis detection in miRNA high-throughput sequencing (HTS) data from libraries prepared using human plasma. To establish a miRNA haemolysis signature we tested differential miRNA abundance between plasma samples with known haemolysis status. Using these miRNAs with statistically significant higher abundance in our haemolysed group, we further refined the set to reveal high-confidence haemolysis association. Given our specific context, i.e., women of reproductive age, we also tested for significant differences between pregnant and non-pregnant groups. We report a novel 20-miRNA signature used to identify the presence of haemolysis in silico in HTS miRNA-sequencing data. Further, we validated the signature set using firstly an all-male cohort (prostate cancer) and secondly a mixed male and female cohort (radiographic knee osteoarthritis). Conclusion: Given the potential for haemolysis contamination, we recommend that assays for haemolysis detection become standard pre-analytical practice and provide here a simple method for haemolysis detection.
BK Virus Infection and BK-Virus-Associated Nephropathy in Renal Transplant Recipients
Authors: Borriello Margherita , Ingrosso Diego , Perna Alessandra Fortunata , Lombardi Angela , Maggi Paolo , Altucci Lucia , Caraglia Michele
Published: July 2022

Poliomavirus BK virus (BKV) is highly infective, causing asymptomatic infections during childhood. After the initial infection, a stable state of latent infection is recognized in kidney tubular cells and the uroepithelium with negligible clinical consequences. BKV is an important risk factor for BKV-associated diseases, and, in particular, for BKV-associated nephropathy (BKVN) in renal transplanted recipients (RTRs). BKVN affects up to 10% of renal transplanted recipients, and results in graft loss in up to 50% of those affected. Unfortunately, treatments for BK virus infection are restricted, and there is no efficient prophylaxis. In addition, consequent immunosuppressive therapy reduction contributes to immune rejection. Increasing surveillance and early diagnosis based upon easy and rapid analyses are resulting in more beneficial outcomes. In this report, the current status and perspectives in the diagnosis and treatment of BKV in RTRs are reviewed.
Parametric Assessment of Soil Nailing on the Stability of Slopes Using Numerical Approach
Authors: Elahi Tausif E , Islam Md Azijul , Islam Mohammad Shariful
Published: July 2022

This study focuses on the stability analysis of slopes reinforced by soil nailing. The effects of slope geometry and nail parameters on slope stability are investigated using PLAXIS 2D. Four different slope angles and three different backslope angles are considered for assessing the effect of slope geometry on the stability of a nailed slope. The factor of safety (FS) was found to decrease with the increasing values of the slope angle as well as the backslope angle. The influence of different nail parameters (nail inclination, nail length, and nail spacing) was also investigated. With the increase in nail inclination, FS was found to increase initially and thereafter, reaching a peak value followed by a drop in FS. The optimum nail inclination was found between 0 and 25° at a horizontal angle, depending on the different slope geometries, which is evident from observation of the slip surface as well. With the increase of nail length, FS increases; however, the increase was small after L/H (length of nail/height of slope) reached a value of 0.9. Moreover, increasing the length of the nail was found to be effective in reducing the lateral movement of the slope. The maximum nail forces are observed in the bottom-most row of nails and increase with the depth. The inclusion of soil nailing with optimum nail parameters can increase FS by 29–75% depending on the slope geometry, signifying the effectiveness of nailing.
Priority Criteria for Community-Based Care Resource Allocation for Health Equity: Socioeconomic Status and Demographic Characteristics in the Multicriteria Decision-Making Method
Authors: Wu Hui-Ching
Published: July 2022

SDG 10 stipulates that inequality within and between countries can be reduced by governmental policies that focus on the allocation of fiscal resources and social protection strategies to improve equity. The sustainability of community-based care stations is a crucial support network for achieving the goal of active aging. Unequal allocation would occur only if the populations of administrative districts are considered. Comprehensive policies, in accordance with data and sustainable goals, must consider multiple factors. Hence, this study used multicriteria decision making (MCDM) to investigate how nine criteria-related socioeconomic statuses (SES) and demographic characteristics are prioritized in community resource and funding allocation. Thirty-four community care and aging experts were invited to complete a questionnaire based on the modified Delphi method and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method. The assessment criteria for the allocation of community resources are prioritized in the following order: disability level, age, household composition, identity of social welfare, family income, ethnicity, marital status, educational attainment, and gender. Quantitative indices can be used to determine the importance of resource allocation policymaking. The benefit of this study lies in decision makers’ application of ranking and weighting values in public funding allocation ratios for community-based care resources for health equity in Taiwan.
Factors Associated with Unprotected Anal Sex among Men Who Have Sex with Men in Mexico
Authors: Caballero-Hoyos Ramiro , Monárrez-Espino Joel , Ramírez-Ortíz María Guadalupe , Cárdenas-Medina Francisco Martín
Published: July 2022

The global prevalence of HIV is notably higher in men who have sex with men (MSM) compared with other male populations. Unprotected anal intercourse is the riskiest sexual behavior for HIV acquisition and/or transmission among this minority population. The purpose of the study was to identify if the syndemic of psychosocial stressors and experienced stigma are predictors of unprotected anal sex in Mexican MSM. A cross-sectional analytic study was carried out. It included adults residing in Manzanillo, Mexico, with oral/anal sex practices within the last year. Informed consent was given by 142 participants selected using snowball sampling. Collected data included sociodemographic characteristics, psychosocial stressors, experienced stigma, HIV knowledge, knowing a friend/acquaintance living with HIV/AIDS, and sexual risk behaviors. Adjusted logistic regression was used to identify predictors of unprotected anal sex within the last six months. Presence of syndemic of psychosocial stressors, drug use during sex, having friends/acquaintances with HIV/AIDS, and experiencing high stigma were positively associated; high level of HIV knowledge was negatively linked. Reducing psychosocial stressors and integrating stigma-mitigation strategies are key elements to reduce HIV transmission.
Neuromuscular Fatigue Responses of Endurance- and Strength-Trained Athletes during Incremental Cycling Exercise
Authors: Jurasz Maciej , Boraczyński Michał , Wójcik Zbigniew , Gronek Piotr
Published: July 2022

This study explored the development of neuromuscular fatigue responses during progressive cycling exercise. The sample comprised 32 participants aged 22.0 ± 0.54 years who were assigned into three groups: endurance-trained group (END, triathletes, n = 10), strength-trained group (STR, bodybuilders, n = 10) and control group (CG, recreationally active students, n = 12). The incremental cycling exercise was performed using a progressive protocol starting with a 3 min resting measurement and then 50 W workload with subsequent constant increments of 50 W every 3 min until 200 W. Surface electromyography (SEMG) of rectus femoris muscles was recorded during the final 30 s of each of the four workloads. During the final 15 s of each workload, participants rated their overall perception of effort using the 20-point rating of the perceived exertion (RPE) scale. Post hoc Tukey’s HSD testing showed significant differences between the END and STR groups in median frequency and mean power frequency across all workloads (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). Athletes from the END group had significantly lower electromyogram amplitude responses than those from the STR (p = 0.0093) and CG groups (p = 0.0006). Increasing RPE points from 50 to 200 W were significantly higher in the STR than in the END group (p < 0.001). In conclusion, there is a significant variation in the neuromuscular fatigue profiles between athletes with different training backgrounds when a cycling exercise is applied. The approximately linear trends of the SEMG and RPE values of both groups of athletes with increasing workload support the increased skeletal muscle recruitment with perceived exertion or fatiguing effect.
Rasch Modeling and Differential Item Functioning of the Self-Stigma Scale-Short Version among People with Three Different Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Fan Chia-Wei , Chang Kun-Chia , Lee Kuan-Ying , Yang Wen-Chi , Pakpour Amir H. , Potenza Marc N. , Lin Chung-Ying
Published: July 2022

Self-stigma is prevalent in individuals with psychiatric disorders and can profoundly affect people. A unified assessment with sound psychometric properties is needed for evaluating self-stigma across psychiatric conditions. The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Self-Stigma Scale-Short version (SSS-S) using Rasch modeling. Six-hundred and twelve participants with substance use disorders (n = 319), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (n = 100), and schizophrenia (n = 193) completed the SSS-S. Rasch results confirmed the unidimensionality of the nine items of the SSS-S. The four-point Likert scale of the SSS-S reflected monotonical increases along the self-stigma continuum. No ceiling or floor effects were detected. Among the three subdomains of the SSS-S, cognitive items appeared to be the most robustly endorsed, and behavioral items were the least endorsed. Two items in the SSS-S displayed differential item functioning across the three diagnoses. Additionally, SSS-S scores showed weak to moderate correlation with depression, anxiety, and stress scale scores. The SSS-S had overall satisfactory psychometric properties. Healthcare professionals may use this assessment to assess self-stigma in multiple psychiatric groups, and information gained may facilitate improved care.
Eating Advice for People Who Wear Dentures: A Scoping Review
Authors: Moynihan Paula , Varghese Roshan
Published: July 2022

Objective: A scoping review of available advice to address eating problems experienced by people who wear dentures was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement. The objective was to identify and map type, volume, and content of the available eating advice. Methods: Medline, CINAHL, and grey literature databases and Google were searched. Relevant content pertaining to study type, peer-review vs. grey literature, country of origin, advice content, and methods to evaluate effectiveness was mapped. Results: Of the 4591 records identified from peer-reviewed literature, 56 full papers underwent duplicate screening, resulting in 26 papers (from Germany (n = 1), Europe (n = 1), India (n = 2), Japan (n = 7), UK (n = 6), USA (n = 6), or other (n = 3)) being included in the review. These yielded 18 different items of relevant eating advice. Of the 258 screened websites, 63 were included, yielding 30 different items of eating advice. The most-cited advice was to eat soft food and avoid hard and sticky food, cut food into bite-sized pieces, and chew on both sides of the mouth and chew slowly and thoroughly. The identified advice was not supported by reference to peer-reviewed evidence. Advice included some conflicting messages and some advice was non-compliant with authoritative nutritional advice (e.g., avoid red meat, take a vitamin supplement). Conclusion: There is support for providing eating advice at the time of denture provision. A broad range of advice based on clinical experience to support people who wear dentures to overcome the functional limitations exists. However, the efficacy of this advice in improving diet and eating experience has not been tested.
Latent Class Analysis of Polysubstance Use and Sexual Risk Behaviors among Men Who Have Sex with Men Attending Sexual Health Clinics in Mexico City
Authors: Rodríguez-Bolaños Rosibel , Baruch-Dominguez Ricardo , Arillo-Santillán Edna , Yunes-Díaz Elsa , Rivera-Rivera Leonor , Cruz-Jiménez Lizeth , Thrasher James F. , Nyitray Alan G. , Lazcano-Ponce Eduardo
Published: July 2022

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are more likely to use drugs and other substances compared to their heterosexual peers. No studies have evaluated patterns of substance use among MSM adults in Mexico. We used latent class analysis (LCA) to identify MSM subgroups with specific substance use patterns and their associations with sexual behaviors. Methods: Data from 1850 adult MSM were collected at HIV clinics in Mexico City between September 2018 and December 2019. The structural equation modeling approach was used to estimate a LC model to identify patterns of substance use by self-report of substance use (i.e., cigarette smoking, alcohol, and drugs). To evaluate LC membership, we included HIV status, condomless anal sex (CAS), and serosorting, while controlling for demographic variables. Results: 30.3% were under the age of 22. Alcohol use in last 30 days (76.2%), binge drinking (29.2%), marijuana (29.4%), sex-drugs (23.9%), stimulants (13.7%), and depressants (6.3%). MSM reported engaging in CAS (55.9%) and serosorting (13.5%) behaviors, and 40% reported being HIV positive. LCA indicated three general categories of MSM substance users: Class 1 (49.0%), Class 2 (29.8%), and Class 3 (20.4%). Members of Class 3 were younger: 23–28 age years (aOR = 1.86) and 29–33 age years (aOR = 1.86), more educated: completed graduate studies (aOR = 1.60), had a high probability of polysubstance use and were more likely to engage in CAS and serosorting. Conclusions: Attempts to detect alcohol and problematic use of substances are needed for MSM followed by culturally competent approaches that address alcohol and drug use disorders.
Difference between Impacts of COVID-19 on Women and Men’s Psychological, Social, Vulnerable Work Situations, and Economic Well-Being
Authors: Iglesias Martínez Enrique , Roces García Jorge , Jiménez Arberas Estibaliz , Llosa José Antonio
Published: July 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 virus changed social reality worldwide, affecting people’s health and work life, particularly their anxiety levels. The purpose of this study is to verify the situation of women in terms of anxiety and social determinants in Spain during the pandemic. The sample consisted of 4686 people (3500 women and 1186 men). The tools used were the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and an ad hoc questionnaire to assess the work and mental situation of the participants. The results indicate a higher rate of anxiety among women than among men and reveal a relationship between higher levels of anxiety and more vulnerable work situations in terms of higher unemployment rates, contract changes, etc. Furthermore, there was a higher percentage of women than men in the sectors where the health crisis has had a greater impact and presence, with repercussions on the physical, mental, and social health of the entire population and especially on women. It is necessary to take into account the social determinants of health, not only at the structural level, in terms of the socio-economic and political contexts, to avoid and limit the axes of inequality such as gender.
Findings from a Nationwide Study on Alcohol Consumption Patterns in an Upper Middle-Income Country
Authors: Robert Lourdes Tania Gayle , Abd Hamid Hamizatul Akmal , Riyadzi Mohd Ruhaizie , Rodzlan Hasani Wan Shakira , Abdul Mutalip Mohd Hatta , Abdul Jabbar Norli , Mat Rifin Halizah , Saminathan Thamil Arasu , Ismail Hasimah , Mohd Yusoff Muhammad Fadhli
Published: July 2022

Alcohol consumption is a risk factor for various diseases, especially non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and injuries. The reduction of the harmful use of alcohol is mentioned in Target 3.5 of the Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDG). This study aimed to determine factors associated with current alcohol drinking among Malaysians aged 15 years and above. Data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019, a cross-sectional nationwide survey using a two-stage stratified random sampling design, was used. Current alcohol drinking was defined as having consumed any alcoholic beverage in the past 12 months. Descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analysis were employed. The prevalence of current drinkers was 11.5%; 95% CI: 9.8, 13.5. The majority (65%) consumed alcoholic beverages in Category 2, which is mainly beer. Current drinkers consumed alcohol mostly once a month (59.0%), one or two drinks (71.1%), on a typical day. Most respondents had six or more drinks less than once a month (27.6%). Sex, age, ethnicity, education, employment, and smoking were found to be significantly associated with current alcohol drinking. Marital status, locality of residence, and household income were not significantly associated. Alcohol drinking is a problem among certain vulnerable groups and should be tackled appropriately.
Spatial–Temporal Correlations between Soil pH and NPP of Grassland Ecosystems in the Yellow River Source Area, China
Authors: Zhang Xiaoning , Nian Lili , Liu Xingyu , Li Xiaodan , Adingo Samuel , Liu Xuelu , Wang Quanxi , Yang Yingbo , Zhang Miaomiao , Hui Caihong , Yu Wenting , Zhang Xinyu , Ma Wenjun , Zhang Yaoquan
Published: July 2022

In recent years, ecological concerns such as vegetation destruction, permafrost deterioration, and river drying have been paid much more attention to on the Yellow River Basin in China. Soil pH is regarded to be the fundamental variable among soil properties for vegetation growth, while net primary productivity (NPP) is also an essential indicator to reflect the healthy growth of vegetation. Due to the limitation of on-site samples, the spatial–temporal variations in soil pH and NPP, as well as their intrinsic mechanisms, remain unknown, especially in the Yellow River source area, China. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the coupling relationship between soil pH and NPP of the area. The study coupled MODIS reflectance data (MOD09A1) with on-site soil pH to estimate spatial–temporal variations in soil pH, explore the response of NPP to soil pH, and assess the extent to which they contribute to grassland ecosystems, thus helping to fill knowledge gaps. Results indicated that the surface spectral reflectance for seven bands could express the geographic pattern of soil pH by applying a multiple linear regression equation; NPP exhibited an increasing trend while soil pH was the contrary in summer from 2000 to 2021. In summer, NPP was negatively correlated with soil pH and there was a lag effect in the response of NPP to soil pH, revealing a correlation between temperate steppes > montane meadows > alpine meadows > swamps in different grassland ecosystems. In addition, contribution indices for temperate steppes and montane meadows were positive whereas they were negative for swamps and alpine meadows, which are apparent findings. The contribution index of montane and alpine meadows was greater than that of temperate steppes and swamps. The approach of the study can enable managers to easily identify and rehabilitate alkaline soil and provides an important reference and practical value for ecological restoration and sustainable development of grassland ecosystems in alpine regions.
Regular Exercise with Suicide Ideation, Suicide Plan and Suicide Attempt in University Students: Data from the Health Minds Survey 2018–2019
Authors: Ning Ke , Yan Chun , Zhang Yanjie , Chen Sitong
Published: July 2022

Background: Participating in exercise has been frequently recognized as a protective factor of suicide-related outcome (e.g., suicidal ideation) in children and adolescents, albeit with less of a focus on university/college students (especially using nationally representative sample). This study aimed to explore the associations between regular exercise with suicide ideation, plan, and suicide attempts using the data from Health Minds Survey (2018–2019 round). Methods: Using the cross-sectional data from a nationally representative sample (n = 62,026; mean age = 23.1 years) with self-reported information on exercise and the three suicide-related measures, binary logistic regression was used to estimate the associations of exercise with suicide ideation, plans, and attempts, respectively, while controlling for age, gender, being an international student or not, and race/ethnicity. Results: Compared with university students reporting five or more hours for exercise a week, those reporting less were more likely to report yes in terms of suicide ideation and a similar association was also observed in exercise and suicide plan. However, exercise was not significantly associated with suicide attempts. Conclusion: Spending more time exercising may be a protective factor against suicide ideation and plan for university students. Owing to the cross-sectional design nature, our research findings should be further investigated for confirmation or negation.
Maintenance of Physical Activity Behavior by Individuals with Prediabetes and Diabetes during the COVID-19 Pandemic after Completing an Exercise Intervention in Brazil
Authors: Ponciano Isabela Coelho , Seixas Mariana Balbi , Peçanha Tiago , Pereira Adriano Luiz , Trevizan Patrícia Fernandes , Britto Raquel Rodrigues , Silva Lilian Pinto da
Published: July 2022

This cross-sectional study evaluated the perception of individuals with prediabetes/diabetes about their living conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic to identify the facilitators, barriers, and reasons to remain physically active at home and adhere to recommended exercise. It included individuals with prediabetes/diabetes who had completed an exercise intervention, which started on-site and moved to a remote home-based regime due to the COVID-19 pandemic and were advised to keep exercising at home. The outcomes were assessed by a bespoke questionnaire that was developed by the research team, the Brazilian Portuguese adapted version of the Exercise Adherence Rating scale, and the Motives for Physical Activity Measure-Revised scale. Of 15 participants (8 female, 58 ± 11 years), most reported positive perceptions about their living conditions and few difficulties maintaining some physical activity at home. However, only 53.8% of them adhered to the recommended exercise. Time flexibility, no need for commuting, and a sense of autonomy were the main facilitators of home exercise, while a lack of adequate space was the main barrier. The descending order of median scores that were obtained in each reason for physical activity was fitness, enjoyment, competence, social, and appearance. Individuals with prediabetes/diabetes maintained some physical activity during the pandemic, mainly motivated by health concerns.
Physiological Responses at 15 Minutes of Recovery after a Session of Functional Fitness Training in Well-Trained Athletes
Authors: Maté-Muñoz José Luis , Budurin Mihai , González-Lozano Salvador , Heredia-Elvar Juan Ramón , Cañuelo-Márquez Ana María , Barba-Ruiz Manuel , Muriarte Diego , Garnacho-Castaño Manuel Vicente , Hernández-Lougedo Juan , García-Fernández Pablo
Published: July 2022

Background: the aim of this study was to analyse muscle fatigue and metabolic stress at 15 min of recovery after performing two independent sessions of functional fitness training (FFT): a session of strength functional fitness training (FFTstrength) and a session of endurance functional fitness training (FFTendurance). Methods: eighteen well-trained men conducted two protocols, separated by one week of rest: FFTstrength (3 sets of 21, 15 and 9 repetitions of Thruster with bar + Pull ups) and FFTendurance (3 sets × (30 kcal rowing + 15 kcal assault air bike)). Neuromuscular fatigue and metabolic stress were measured right before, right after and at 10 and 15 min after completing the FFT workout, as well as the mean heart rate (HRmean) and the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) at the end of the FFT. Results: FFTendurance recovered the velocity loss values after 15 min of recovery. On the other hand, FFTstrength only recovered velocity in the 1 m·s−1 Tests in squat (SQ), since the velocity levels were 7% lower in the 1 m·s−1 Tests in military press exercise (MP) after 15 min. Conclusions: These data indicate that there are specific recovery patterns not only as a function of the exercise and the body regions involved, but also regarding the recovery of neuromuscular and metabolic factors, since both FFT workouts obtained high blood lactate concentrations.
Bibliometric Analysis of the Knowledge Base and Future Trends on Sarcopenia from 1999–2021
Authors: Xiao Yao , Deng Ziheng , Tan Hangjing , Jiang Tiejian , Chen Zhiheng
Published: July 2022

Sarcopenia is characterized by progressive loss of muscle mass and function, and it is becoming a serious public health problem with the aging population. However, a comprehensive overview of the knowledge base and future trends is still lacking. The articles and reviews with “sarcopenia” in their title published from 1999 to 2021 in the SCIE database were retrieved. We used Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace to conduct a descriptive and bibliometric analysis. A total of 3582 publications were collected, from 4 published in 2000 increasing dramatically to 850 documents in 2021. The USA was the most productive country, with the most citations. The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart and Landi F were the most influential organization and author in this field, respectively. The core journal in this field was the Journal of Cachexia Sarcopenia and Muscle. According to the analysis of keywords and references, we roughly categorized the main research areas into four domains as follows: 1. Definition and diagnosis; 2. Epidemiology; 3. Etiology and pathogenesis; 4. Treatments. Comparing different diagnostic tools and the epidemiology of sarcopenia in different populations are recent hotspots, while more efforts are needed in the underlying mechanism and developing safe and effective treatments. In conclusion, this study provides comprehensive insights into developments and trends in sarcopenia research that can help researchers and clinicians better manage and implement their work.
Associations between Physical Activity Level and Health Services Use in Spanish Adults
Authors: Denche-Zamorano Ángel , Mendoza-Muñoz María , Carlos-Vivas Jorge , Muñoz-Bermejo Laura , Rojo-Ramos Jorge , Giakoni-Ramírez Frano , Godoy-Cumillaf Andrés , Barrios-Fernandez Sabina
Published: July 2022

One of the main concerns of governments and organisations worldwide is the cost and burden of health services, with sedentary lifestyles being a significant impacting factor, and physical activity is one of the potential solutions. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the possible associations between the physical activity level, hospitalisation prevalence, and the use and number of visits to emergency services in the Spanish population, examining potential differences between sex and age groups. This is a cross-sectional study based on data from the Spanish National Health Survey 2017 (ENSE 2017), the last one before the COVID-19 pandemic, with 17,199 participants. A descriptive analysis was performed using median and interquartile range (continuous variables) and absolute and relative frequencies (ordinal variables). Intergroup differences were analysed with non-parametric tests: chi-square and z-test for independent proportions (categorical variables), and Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U (continuous variables). Spearman’s rho was used to study correlations between variables. A multiple binary regression analysis was performed to predict hospitalisations. Hospitalisations and emergency services use showed a dependence relation with the physical activity level (p < 0.001): those who performed moderate and/or vigorous physical activity used those services less than sedentary individuals and those whose only activity was walking. Thus, associations could be drawn between the hospitalisation prevalence, the use and number of visits to emergency departments, and the physical activity level in the Spanish population aged 18–69 years in the pre-pandemic period.
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Their Relationship with Poor Sexual Health Outcomes: Results from Four Cross-Sectional Surveys
Authors: Wood Sara K. , Ford Kat , Madden Hannah C. E. , Sharp Catherine A. , Hughes Karen E. , Bellis Mark A.
Published: July 2022

Improving understanding of risk factors for risky sexual behaviour is fundamental to achieve better population sexual health. Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can increase the risk of poor sexual health outcomes, but most research is US-based. This study explored associations between ACEs and poor sexual health outcomes in the UK. Data from four cross-sectional ACE surveys with adult general populations in different regions of the UK from 2013–2015 (n = 12,788) were analysed. Data included participants’ demographics, ACE exposure, and four sexual health outcomes: having early sex (<16 years), having an accidental teenage pregnancy, becoming a teenage parent, or having a lifetime diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection. ACE count was a consistent and significant predictor of all four sexual health outcomes for both males and females, with odds of these outcomes between three and seven times higher for those with 4+ ACEs compared to those with no ACEs. Increased risks of some, but not all, sexual health outcomes were also found with higher residential deprivation, younger age, being of white ethnicity, and being born to a teenage mother. Findings highlight the need for effective interventions to prevent and ameliorate the lifelong effects of ACEs. Trauma-informed relationships and sex education, sexual health services, and antenatal/postnatal services, particularly for teenagers and young parents, could provide opportunities to prevent ACEs and support those affected. Ensuring that those living in deprived areas have access to services and that barriers to uptake are addressed is also key.
Exhaustion in Healthcare Workers after the First Three Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Oțelea Marina Ruxandra , Rașcu Agripina , Staicu Cătălin , Călugăreanu Lavinia , Ipate Mădălina , Teodorescu Silvia , Persecă Ovidiu , Voinoiu Angelica , Neamțu Andra , Calotă Violeta , Mateș Dana
Published: July 2022

This study aims to identify the determinants of exhaustion of frontline and second-line healthcare workers (HCW) during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A case–control study was conducted based on an anonymously distributed questionnaire, which was completed by 1872 HCW. Exhaustion was assessed with a validated Romanian questionnaire. The Siegrist questionnaire was used to determine workload, reward and overcommitment. Frontline HCW reported significantly more frequent longer working hours (p = 0.0009) and a better perception of the management of the risk for infection (p = 0.0002) than second-line HCW. The effort and overcommitment scores were higher in frontline HCW (9.51 + 1.98 vs. 8.45 + 21, p < 0.001 and 16.34 ± 2.80 vs. 15.24 ± 2.94, p < 0.001, respectively) and the reward scores were lower (5.21 ± 1.522 vs. 5.99 ± 1.44, p < 0.001). In the fully adjusted regression model, age, imbalance between effort and reward, overcommitment and management of the risk of infection in the workplace were associated with the exhaustion score in each category of HCW. The number of working hours was correlated with exhaustion in frontline HCW and occupation in second-line HCW. There were more similarities than differences between frontline and second-line HCW. Even if frontline HCW had a higher risk of exhaustion, the risk was not negligible for all HCW.
Electrically Conductive and Antimicrobial Agro-Food Waste Biochar Functionalized with Zinc Oxide Particles
Authors: Alves Zélia , Ferreira Nuno M. , Figueiredo Gonçalo , Mendo Sónia , Nunes Cláudia , Ferreira Paula
Published: July 2022

Carbonaceous materials derived from biomass have been used as sustainable platforms for the growth of ZnO particles aiming the production of functional composite fillers. Kidney-bean pods were pyrolyzed by applying an experimental design that demonstrates that the specific surface area (SBET) of biochar is improved with increasing pyrolysis temperature combined with a short air-oxidation time. Meanwhile, the graphitization degree and the electrical conductivity (EC) of biochars were negatively affected by increasing the air-oxidation time. The biochar sample with the higher EC and the one with the higher SBET were selected to be functionalized with ZnO particles by a solvothermal methodology, obtaining composites with an EC and SBET properties superior to the ZnO-rGO composite, in addition to a similar antibacterial activity. The developed ZnO-biochar composite structures, which are more ecological and biocompatible than the ZnO composites derived from graphene sheets, can be applied as electrically conductive and active fillers.