bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vaginal Microbiota Is Stable throughout the Estrous Cycle in Arabian Mares
Authors: Barba Marta , Martínez-Boví Rebeca , Quereda Juan José , Mocé María Lorena , Plaza-Dávila María , Jiménez-Trigos Estrella , Gómez-Martín Ángel , González-Torres Pedro , Carbonetto Belén , García-Roselló Empar
Published: November 2020

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) dominate human vaginal microbiota and inhibit pathogen proliferation. In other mammals, LAB do not dominate vaginal microbiota, however shifts of dominant microorganisms occur during ovarian cycle. The study objectives were to characterize equine vaginal microbiota in mares by culture-dependent and independent methods and to describe its variation in estrus and diestrus. Vaginal swabs from 8 healthy adult Arabian mares were obtained in estrus and diestrus. For culture-dependent processing, bacteria were isolated on Columbia blood agar (BA) and Man Rogosa Sharpe (MRS) agar. LAB comprised only 2% of total bacterial isolates and were not related to ovarian phases. For culture-independent processing, V3/V4 variable regions of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene were amplified and sequenced using Illumina Miseq. The diversity and composition of the vaginal microbiota did not change during the estrous cycle. Core equine vaginal microbiome consisted of Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria at the phylum level. At the genus level it was defined by Porphyromonas, Campylobacter, Arcanobacterium, Corynebacterium, Streptococcus, Fusobacterium, uncultured Kiritimatiaellae and Akkermansia. Lactobacillus comprised only 0.18% of the taxonomic composition in estrus and 0.37% in diestrus. No differences in the relative abundance of the most abundant phylum or genera were observed between estrus and diestrus samples.
Navigated 3D Ultrasound in Brain Metastasis Surgery: Analyzing the Differences in Object Appearances in Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Saß Benjamin , Carl Barbara , Pojskic Mirza , Nimsky Christopher , Bopp Miriam
Published: November 2020

Background: Implementation of intraoperative 3D ultrasound (i3D US) into modern neuronavigational systems offers the possibility of live imaging and subsequent imaging updates. However, different modalities, image acquisition strategies, and timing of imaging influence object appearances. We analyzed the differences in object appearances in ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 35 cases of brain metastasis, which were operated in a multimodal navigational setup after intraoperative computed tomography based (iCT) registration. Method: Registration accuracy was determined using the target registration error (TRE). Lesions segmented in preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (preMRI) and i3D US were compared focusing on object size, location, and similarity. Results: The mean and standard deviation (SD) of the TRE was 0.84 ± 0.36 mm. Objects were similar in size (mean ± SD in preMRI: 13.6 ± 16.0 cm3 vs. i3D US: 13.5 ± 16.0 cm3). The Dice coefficient was 0.68 ± 0.22 (mean ± SD), the Hausdorff distance 8.1 ± 2.9 mm (mean ± SD), and the Euclidean distance of the centers of gravity 3.7 ± 2.5 mm (mean ± SD). Conclusion: i3D US clearly delineates tumor boundaries and allows live updating of imaging for compensation of brain shift, which can already be identified to a significant amount before dural opening.
Towards an Improved Inventory of N2O Emissions Using Land Cover Maps Derived from Optical Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Fieuzal Rémy , Sicre Claire Marais , Tallec Tiphaine
Published: November 2020

Agricultural soils are the primary anthropogenic source of N2O emissions, one of the most important greenhouse gases, because of the use of nitrogen (N) fertilizers. The proposed method provides access to an inventory of potential N2O emissions (the term potential refers to possible but not yet actual) at a fine scale, with an annual update, without a heavy deployment linked to a collection of field measurements. The processing chain is applied to optical satellite images regularly acquired at a high spatial resolution during the 2006–2015 period, allowing a better spatial and temporal resolution of the estimates of potential N2O emissions from crops. The yearly potential N2O emissions inventory is estimated over a study site located in southwestern France, considering seven main seasonal crops (i.e., wheat, barley, rapeseed, corn, sunflower, sorghum and soybean). The first step of the study, that is the land use classification, is associated with accurate performances, with an overall accuracy superior to 0.81. Over the study area, the yearly potential budget of N2O emissions ranges from 97 to 113 tons, with an estimated relative error of less than 5.5%. Wheat, the main cultivated crop, is associated with the maximum cumulative emissions regardless of the considered year (with at least 48% of annual emissions), while maize, the third crop regarding to the allocated area (grown on less than 8% of the study site), has the second highest cumulative emissions. Finally, the analysis of a 10-year map of the potential N2O budget shows that the mainly observed crop rotation (i.e., alternating of wheat and sunflower) reaches potential emissions close to 16 kg N2O emitted per hectare, while the monoculture maize is associated with the maximum value (close to 28.9 kg per hectare).
Comparison of Backscatter Coefficient at 1064 nm from CALIPSO and Ground–Based Ceilometers over Coastal and Non–Coastal Regions
Authors: Baroni Thaize , Pandey Praveen , Preissler Jana , Gimmestad Gary , O’Dowd Colin
Published: November 2020

This study investigates the direct comparison of backscatter coefficient profiles at 1064 nm which were measured by CALIOP (Cloud–Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization) and by ground–based ceilometers located in coastal and non–coastal regions. The study uses data recorded between 2013 and 2016 to investigate the challenges involved in performing such a comparison in different environments. The standard Level 2 CALIOP Aerosol Profile version 4 product is evaluated against data from two ground–based Jenoptik CHM15K ceilometers: One at Mace Head (western Ireland) and the other at Harzgerode (central Germany). A statistical analysis from a series of CALIOP overpasses within 100 km distance from the ground–stations is presented considering different along–track averages in CALIOP data (5 km, 15 km, 25 km, 35 km, and 100 km) at the closest approach. The mean bias calculated from the correlative measurements between CALIOP and the ground–based ceilometers shows negative bias for 80% of the cases analyzed at Mace Head and positive bias for 68% of the cases investigated at Harzgerode, considering both daytime and nighttime measurements in cloud–free scenarios. The correlation of these results with HYSPLIT shows that different air samples play a role in the comparison. To our knowledge, this is the first study that addresses the limitations and capabilities in comparing CALIOP data with ground–based ceilometers at 1064 nm wavelength in different environments.
BRAF Mutation in Colorectal Cancers: From Prognostic Marker to Targetable Mutation
Authors: Nakayama Izuma , Hirota Toru , Shinozaki Eiji
Published: November 2020

The Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (BRAF) mutation is detected in 8–12% of metastatic colorectal cancers (mCRCs) and is strongly correlated with poor prognosis. The recent success of the BEACON CRC study and the development of targeted therapy have led to the determination of BRAF-mutated mCRCs as an independent category. For nearly two decades, a growing body of evidence has established the significance of the BRAF mutation in the development of CRC. Herein, we overview both basic and clinical data relevant to BRAF-mutated CRC, mainly focusing on the development of treatment strategies. This review is organized into eight sections, including clinicopathological features, molecular features, prognosis, the predictive value of anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapy, resistant mechanisms for BRAF-targeting treatment, the heterogeneity of the BRAF mutation, future perspectives, and conclusions. A characterization of the canonical mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway is essential for controlling this malignancy, and the optimal combination of multiple interventions for treatments remains a point of debate.
Midline Meningiomas of the Anterior Skull Base: Surgical Outcomes and a Decision-Making Algorithm for Classic Skull Base Approaches
Authors: Aftahy Amir Kaywan , Barz Melanie , Krauss Philipp , Wagner Arthur , Lange Nicole , Hijazi Alaa , Wiestler Benedikt , Meyer Bernhard , Negwer Chiara , Gempt Jens
Published: November 2020

(1) Background: Midline meningiomas such as olfactory groove (OGMs), planum sphenoidale (PSMs), or tuberculum sellae meningiomas (TSMs) are challenging, and determining the appropriate approach is important. We propose a decision algorithm for choosing suitable transcranial approaches. (2) Methods: A retrospective chart review between 06/2007 and 01/2020. Clinical outcomes, radiographic findings, and postoperative complication rates were analyzed with respect to operative approaches. (3) Results: We included 88 patients in the analysis. Of these, 18.2% (16/88) underwent an interhemispheric approach, 72.7% (64/88) underwent a pterional/frontolateral/supraorbital approach, 2.3% (2/88) underwent a unilateral subfrontal approach, and 6.8% (6/88) underwent a bifrontal approach. All OGMs underwent median approaches, along with one PSM. All of the other PSMs and TSMs were resected via lateral approaches. The preoperative tumor volume was ∅20.2 ± 27.1 cm3. Median approaches had significantly higher tumor volume but also higher rates of Simpson I resection (75.0% vs. 34.4%). An improvement of visual deficits was observed in 34.1% (30/88). The adverse event rate was 17.0%. Median follow-up was 15.5 months (range 0–112 months). (4) Conclusions: Median approaches provides satisfying results for OGMs, lateral approaches enable sufficient exposure of the visual apparatus for PSMs and TSMs. In proposing a simple decision-making algorithm, the authors found that satisfactory outcomes can be achieved for midline meningiomas.
Wear Behavior of Ni-Based Composite Coatings with Dual Nano-SiC: Graphite Powder Mix
Authors: Pinate Santiago , Zanella Caterina
Published: November 2020

This work explores the surface protection against wear provided by electroplated metal matrix composite coatings containing hard and lubricant particles. The second phase mix was selected to provide wear resistance by hardening the material and decreasing the friction coefficient. In this study, the capacity of providing wear protection by nano-SiC and self-lubrication by submicron graphite was addressed. Nickel-based composites with a dual powder mix of SiC 60 nm and graphite 400 nm, combined on a 10:10 g L−1 ratio, were produced by electrocodeposition. In addition, to better understand their synergy, mono-composites with SiC 60 nm or Graphite 400 nm with a powder load of 10 g L−1 were also produced. Pure nickel was also electrodeposited under the same conditions as a benchmark. Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) maps and chemical composition analysis were used to correlate the results from microhardness, wear resistance, and friction to the microstructure and particle incorporation rate. The wear rate tested by pin-on-disc decreased when the codeposition fraction and microhardness increased. Three main factors were determined to contribute to the coating hardness: Intrinsic hardness of the particle type, strengthening by grain refinement, and dispersion strengthening. The composites containing SiC provided the best wear protection due to the highest microhardness and grain refinement.
Phytoplankton Temporal Strategies Increase Entropy Production in a Marine Food Web Model
Authors: Vallino Joseph J. , Tsakalakis Ioannis
Published: November 2020

We develop a trait-based model founded on the hypothesis that biological systems evolve and organize to maximize entropy production by dissipating chemical and electromagnetic free energy over longer time scales than abiotic processes by implementing temporal strategies. A marine food web consisting of phytoplankton, bacteria, and consumer functional groups is used to explore how temporal strategies, or the lack thereof, change entropy production in a shallow pond that receives a continuous flow of reduced organic carbon plus inorganic nitrogen and illumination from solar radiation with diel and seasonal dynamics. Results show that a temporal strategy that employs an explicit circadian clock produces more entropy than a passive strategy that uses internal carbon storage or a balanced growth strategy that requires phytoplankton to grow with fixed stoichiometry. When the community is forced to operate at high specific growth rates near 2 d−1, the optimization-guided model selects for phytoplankton ecotypes that exhibit complementary for winter versus summer environmental conditions to increase entropy production. We also present a new type of trait-based modeling where trait values are determined by maximizing entropy production rather than by random selection.
Shortcut-to-Adiabaticity-Like Techniques for Parameter Estimation in Quantum Metrology
Authors: Cabedo-Olaya Marina , Muga Juan Gonzalo , Martínez-Garaot Sofía
Published: November 2020

Quantum metrology makes use of quantum mechanics to improve precision measurements and measurement sensitivities. It is usually formulated for time-independent Hamiltonians, but time-dependent Hamiltonians may offer advantages, such as a T4 time dependence of the Fisher information which cannot be reached with a time-independent Hamiltonian. In Optimal adaptive control for quantum metrology with time-dependent Hamiltonians (Nature Communications 8, 2017), Shengshi Pang and Andrew N. Jordan put forward a Shortcut-to-adiabaticity (STA)-like method, specifically an approach formally similar to the “counterdiabatic approach”, adding a control term to the original Hamiltonian to reach the upper bound of the Fisher information. We revisit this work from the point of view of STA to set the relations and differences between STA-like methods in metrology and ordinary STA. This analysis paves the way for the application of other STA-like techniques in parameter estimation. In particular we explore the use of physical unitary transformations to propose alternative time-dependent Hamiltonians which may be easier to implement in the laboratory.
Entropy Production in Exactly Solvable Systems
Authors: Cocconi Luca , Garcia-Millan Rosalba , Zhen Zigan , Buturca Bianca , Pruessner Gunnar
Published: November 2020

The rate of entropy production by a stochastic process quantifies how far it is from thermodynamic equilibrium. Equivalently, entropy production captures the degree to which global detailed balance and time-reversal symmetry are broken. Despite abundant references to entropy production in the literature and its many applications in the study of non-equilibrium stochastic particle systems, a comprehensive list of typical examples illustrating the fundamentals of entropy production is lacking. Here, we present a brief, self-contained review of entropy production and calculate it from first principles in a catalogue of exactly solvable setups, encompassing both discrete- and continuous-state Markov processes, as well as single- and multiple-particle systems. The examples covered in this work provide a stepping stone for further studies on entropy production of more complex systems, such as many-particle active matter, as well as a benchmark for the development of alternative mathematical formalisms.
A Broadband Enhanced Structure-Preserving Reduced-Order Interconnect Macromodeling Method for Large-Scale Equation Sets of Transient Interconnect Circuit Problems
Authors: Wang Ning , Wang Huifang , Yang Shiyou
Published: November 2020

In the transient analysis of an engineering power electronics device, the order of its equivalent circuit model is excessive large. To eliminate this issue, some model order reduction (MOR) methods are proposed in the literature. Compared to other MOR methods, the structure-preserving reduced-order interconnect macromodeling (SPRIM) based on Krylov subspaces will achieve a higher reduction radio and precision for large multi-port Resistor-Capacitor-Inductor (RCL) circuits. However, for very wide band frequency transients, the performance of a Krylov subspace-based MOR method is not satisfactory. Moreover, the selection of the expansion point in this method has not been comprehensively studied in the literature. From this point of view, a broadband enhanced structure-preserving reduced-order interconnect macromodeling (SPRIM) method is proposed to reduce the order of equation sets of a transient interconnect circuit model. In addition, a method is introduced to determine the optimal expansion point at each frequency in the proposed method. The proposed method is validated by the numerical results on a transient problem of an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT)-based inverter busbar under different exciting conditions.
PCB-Embedded Spiral Pattern Pick-Up Coil Current Sensor for WBG Devices
Authors: Cha Hwa-Rang , Kim Kyeong-Mo , Song Min-Soo , Kim Rae-Young
Published: November 2020

This paper proposes a current sensor for wide bandgap (WBG) devices. The current of a power semiconductor device is mainly measured using a Rogowski coil, an active current transformer, and a coaxial shunt resistor. The Rogowski coil and active current transformer are not suitable for the current measurement of surface mount WBG devices due to their operating principle. The coaxial shunt resistor causes parasitic inductance. Since WBG devices are more sensitive to parasitic inductance than silicon devices, parasitic inductance may affect circuit operation. To overcome these problems, this paper proposes a printed circuit board (PCB)-embedded spiral pattern pick-up coil current measurement for WBG devices. The proposed pick-up coil has high mutual inductance compared to the conventional pick-up coil, so the measurement sensitivity is high. In addition, there is no need for additional processing outside the PCB. Experimental results using a double pulse tester circuit are provided to verify the performance of the proposed current sensor.
Review of the Photothermal Energy Conversion Performance of Nanofluids, Their Applications, and Recent Advances
Authors: Boldoo Tsogtbilegt , Ham Jeonggyun , Kim Eui , Cho Honghyun
Published: November 2020

Nanoparticles have been thoroughly investigated in the last few decades because they have many beneficial and functional qualities. Their capability to enhance and manipulate light absorption, thermal conductivity, and heat transfer efficiency has attracted significant research attention. This systematic and comprehensive work is a critical review of research on the photothermal energy conversion performance of various nanofluids as well as the recent advances in several engineering applications. Different nanofluids used in the photothermal energy conversion process were compared to identify the suitable applications of each nanofluid in thermal systems. An analysis of the previous investigations based on experimental and numerical studies has established that nanomaterials have the potential to increase the efficiency of solar thermal systems.
Renewable Energy Promotion Instruments Used by Innovation Brokers in a Technology Transfer Network. Case Study of the Enterprise Europe Network
Authors: Gródek-Szostak Zofia , Suder Marcin , Kusa Rafał , Szeląg-Sikora Anna , Duda Joanna , Niemiec Marcin
Published: November 2020

Stable and sustainable economic development—including that of renewable energy resources (RES)—requires institutional support of an environment that would enable market operations, and support them in case they are ineffective. Innovation brokers, including structured technology transfer networks, play a key role in promoting, disseminating, and liaising between the parties in the RES sector. The aim of the paper is to present the structure of events used to promote RES in Europe by the Enterprise Europe Network in the years 2017–2018; to verify whether the type of promotion instrument used is significantly related to the location of the events organized; to research whether the selection of the supporting partner is determined by the organized event’s geographical location. The analysis is carried out by means of an empirical study of the network of innovation brokers, i.e., the Enterprise Europe Network. Additionally, the available data are analyzed in terms of the type of the partner supporting individual events. It has been shown that there is a significant variation in the structure of the types of events for individual regions of Europe. This could mean that the organizers’ decisions as to the type of events organized in particular regions of Europe are deliberate and in some way adjusted to the region in which they take place.
A Novel Electricity Theft Detection Scheme Based on Text Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Feng Xiaofeng , Hui Hengyu , Liang Ziyang , Guo Wenchong , Que Huakun , Feng Haoyang , Yao Yu , Ye Chengjin , Ding Yi
Published: November 2020

Electricity theft decreases electricity revenues and brings risks to power usage’s safety, which has been increasingly challenging nowadays. As the mainstream in the relevant studies, the state-of-the-art data-driven approaches mainly detect electricity theft events from the perspective of the correlations between different daily or weekly loads, which is relatively inadequate to extract features from hours or more of fine-grained temporal data. In view of the above deficiencies, we propose a novel electricity theft detection scheme based on text convolutional neural networks (TextCNN). Specifically, we convert electricity consumption measurements over a horizon of interest into a two-dimensional time-series containing the intraday electricity features. Based on the data structure, the proposed method can accurately capture various periodical features of electricity consumption. Moreover, a data augmentation method is proposed to cope with the imbalance of electricity theft data. Extensive experimental results based on realistic Chinese and Irish datasets indicate that the proposed model achieves a better performance compared with other existing methods.
Field Test of Wind Power Output Fluctuation Control Using an Energy Storage System on Jeju Island
Authors: Chae Sang Heon , Kang Chul Uoong , Kim Eel-Hwan
Published: November 2020

At present, renewable energy installations are expanding to solve both environmental problems and expensive energy fuel import prices in isolated areas. However, in a small-scale power system, rapid output fluctuations of renewable energy may cause power quality problems such as voltage and frequency fluctuations in the power system. To solve this problem, the local government of Jeju Island in South Korea implemented a megawatt (MW)-class pilot project to stabilize the output power of wind turbines using an energy storage system (ESS). In this project, a 0.5 MWh lithium-ion battery was connected to a 3 MW wind turbine via 1 MW power conversion system (PCS). In this paper, the field test results were divided into four categories as follows. First, the performance of stabilizing the output of the wind turbine using ESS was confirmed. Second, the control performance of the ESS was confirmed when the wind turbine suddenly stopped due to an accident. Third, it was confirmed that the ESS discharged energy into the power system after the stabilization of the wind turbine output. Fourth, the reasons for the failure of the ESS to control output stabilization of the wind turbine were analyzed through MATLAB simulation.
Microanalysis of Selected NSAIDs Using the Spectrophotometric Method
Authors: Gumułka Paweł , Dąbrowska Monika , Starek Małgorzata
Published: November 2020

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the group of drugs most commonly used in medicine. They are available over the counter to treat fevers and pains of various origins. The clinical and pharmaceutical analysis of these drugs requires effective analytical procedures for drug quality control, pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies. This article presents the spectrophotometric method that was used to analyze selected drugs from the NSAID group. The conditions for the determination of selected coxibs and oxicams in the UV range with the use of microplates have been developed. The presented procedure has been validated in accordance with the requirements, guaranteeing reliable results. The obtained results give the basis for the conclusion that the method can be successfully used in the quality control of pharmaceutical preparations with a small amount of available sample.
Factors Influencing Young Korean Men’s Knowledge and Stigmatizing Attitudes about HIV Infection
Authors: Shim Mi-So , Kim Gwang Suk
Published: November 2020

Stigma against people living with HIV (PLHIV) fosters depression and negatively impacts the quality of life in PLHIV and is a barrier to the whole process of treatment. This study aimed to identify the levels of knowledge and stigmatizing attitudes toward HIV infection among Korean men in their 20s and the factors influencing them. A cross-sectional design was used. Two hundred and eight Korean men in their 20s responded to self-report questionnaires that included items on knowledge and stigmatizing attitudes about HIV infection, subjective norms for safer sexual behaviors (SSBs), participants’ HIV-related characteristics, sex-related characteristics, and general characteristics. The mean score (±SD) for knowledge was 13.9 (±5.28) and for stigmatizing attitudes was 64.1 (±11.42). In quantile regression analysis, exposure to HIV-related information was a significant factor for knowledge in every quantile, and experience of HIV education was a significant factor in the 50th quantile. Experience of meeting PLHIV was a significant factor for stigmatizing attitudes in the 25th quantile, and subjective norms for SSB were a significant factor for stigmatizing attitudes in the 25th and 50th quantiles. Findings suggest the need for intervention to improve young Korean men’s knowledge, as well as intervention focusing on norms for SSB, to prevent stigmatizing attitudes.
Green Infrastructure Offset the Negative Ecological Effects of Urbanization and Storing Water in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area, China
Authors: Liao Qipeng , Wang Zhe , Huang Chunbo
Published: November 2020

Land use planning usually increases the uncertainties of the ecosystem structures and functions because various human demands usually bring both positive and negative ecological effects. It is critical for estimating various land use changes and their ecological effects, but the previous studies have failed to decouple the respective and the combined effects of different land use changes on ecosystem services. Net primary productivity (NPP) could be used to indicate many ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration and storage. Here, we employed a light use efficiency model to estimate the spatial and temporal dynamics of NPP in the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) area from 2000 to 2015, and designed four scenarios to analyze the relative roles of afforestation, urbanization and storing water on NPP dynamics. Our results documented that terrestrial NPP of the TGR area increased from 547.40 gC•m−2 to 629.96 gC•m−2, and carbon sequestration capacities were 31.66 TgC (1Tg = 1012g) and 36.79 TgC in 2000 and 2015, respectively. Climate change and land use change both could contribute to carbon sequestration with 4.08 TgC and 1.05 TgC. Among these land use changes, only afforestation could sequester carbon with 2.04 TgC, while urbanization-induced and impoundment-induced emissions were 0.12 TgC and 0.32 TgC, respectively, and other land use changes also could release 0.55 TgC of carbon. This finding suggested that although positive and negative environmental effects happened simultaneously over the past decades, green infrastructure could effectively offset the carbon emissions from urbanization and storing water in the TGR area, which provides some fundamental supports for further ecological restoration and contributes to empowering land use policies towards carbon sequestration and storage at the regional scale.
Cellular Phone Use and Risk of Tumors: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Choi Yoon-Jung , Moskowitz Joel M. , Myung Seung-Kwon , Lee Yi-Ryoung , Hong Yun-Chul
Published: November 2020

We investigated whether cellular phone use was associated with increased risk of tumors using a meta-analysis of case-control studies. PubMed and EMBASE were searched from inception to July 2018. The primary outcome was the risk of tumors by cellular phone use, which was measured by pooling each odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI). In a meta-analysis of 46 case-control studies, compared with never or rarely having used a cellular phone, regular use was not associated with tumor risk in the random-effects meta-analysis. However, in the subgroup meta-analysis by research group, there was a statistically significant positive association (harmful effect) in the Hardell et al. studies (OR, 1.15—95% CI, 1.00 to 1.33— n = 10), a statistically significant negative association (beneficial effect) in the INTERPHONE-related studies (case-control studies from 13 countries coordinated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC); (OR, 0.81—95% CI, 0.75 to 0.89—n = 9), and no statistically significant association in other research groups’ studies. Further, cellular phone use with cumulative call time more than 1000 h statistically significantly increased the risk of tumors. This comprehensive meta-analysis of case-control studies found evidence that linked cellular phone use to increased tumor risk.
Reference Values for Isometric, Dynamic, and Asymmetry Leg Extension Strength in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Portilla-Cueto Kora , Medina-Pérez Carlos , Romero-Pérez Ena Monserrat , Hernández-Murúa José Aldo , Patrocinio de Oliveira Claudia Eliza , Souza-Teixeira Fernanda de , González-Bernal Jerónimo J , Vila-Chã Carolina , de Paz José Antonio
Published: November 2020

Having recognized the value of resistance training in patients with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), there are a lack of lower limb normative reference values for one repetition maximum (1RM) and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) in this population. Hence, the purposes of this study were to provide reference values for 1RM and MVIC of knee extensors in PwMS across the disability spectrum and to examine knee extension strength asymmetry. Three hundred and ninety PwMS participated in the study, performing MVIC and 1RM tests of bilateral (both legs together at once) and unilateral (each leg singly) knee extensors. There was no difference in 1RM according to the disease course of MS, but there was according to the degree of neurological disability, being more preserved in those with a lower degree of disability. MVIC tends to be higher in patients with relapsing–remitting MS respect those with progressive MS, and in patients with lower levels of neurological disability. Asymmetry above the values considered normal in 1RM was present in 20–60% of patients and 56–79% in the MVIC test, depending on the type of MS and tended to be lower in those with less disability. Reference values are given by quartiles for 1RM, MVIC, and asymmetry.
Return on Investment (ROI) and Development of a Workplace Disability Management Program in a Hospital—A Pilot Evaluation Study
Authors: Camisa Vincenzo , Gilardi Francesco , Di Brino Eugenio , Santoro Annapaola , Vinci Maria Rosaria , Sannino Serena , Bianchi Natalia , Mesolella Valentina , Macina Nadia , Focarelli Michela , Brugaletta Rita , Raponi Massimiliano , Ferri Livia , Cicchetti Americo , Magnavita Nicola , Zaffina Salvatore
Published: November 2020

The progressive ageing of the working population and the increase in related chronic diseases tend to affect working capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate a Workplace Disability Management Program (WDMP) within a pediatric hospital. Absenteeism due to healthcare workers’ (HCWs) pre- and post- WDMP and the related costs were used for the program evaluation. The Return on Investment (ROI), the Break-Even Analysis (BEA) and the value of the average annual productivity of HCWs who took advantage of the Disability Management (DM) interventions to assess the economic impact of the program, were also used. The HCWs enrolled in the program were 131 (approximately 4% of hospital staff), of which 89.7% females and with an average age of 50.4 years (SD ± 8.99). Sick leave days of the HCWs involved decreased by 66.6% in the year following the end of WDMP compared to the previous one (p < 0.001). The total estimated cost reduction of absenteeism is 427,896€ over a year. ROI was equal to 27.66€. BEA indicated that the break-even point was reached by implementing the program on 3.27 HCWs. The program evaluation demonstrated the particular effectiveness of the implemented WDMP model, acting positively on the variables that affect productivity and the limitation to work.
Psychological Strain and Suicidal Ideation in Athletes: The Multiple Mediating Effects of Hopelessness and Depression
Authors: Sun Guoxiao , Zhao Jingyi , Tian Siyu , Zhang Liwei , Jia Cunxian
Published: November 2020

The present study aims to examine the relationship between psychological strain, suicidal ideation, hopelessness, and depression among Chinese athletes. Participants were 774 Chinese athletes (454 men and 320 women), with a range of ages from 12 to 35 (M = 18.47, SD = 3.39). The structural equation modeling method was used to examine the multiple mediating effects of hopelessness and depression between psychological strain and suicidal ideation. As expected, a positive correlation between psychological strain, suicidal ideation, hopelessness, and depression was found. Additionally, results seem to indicate that psychological strain directly and positively influenced suicidal ideation, and that hopelessness and depression played a serial mediating role in the relationship between psychological strain and suicidal ideation. To conclude, the psychological strain theory is applicable for explaining suicidal ideation in athletes. In athletes, psychological strain is sequentially associated first with a sense of hopelessness and then depression, which is in turn related to suicidal ideation. The present study makes a significant contribution to the literature because we provide a new theoretical basis and new methods for preventing mental disorder and suicidality in athletes.
Factors Associated with Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Oral Care Among the Elderly in Hong Kong Community
Authors: Wong Florence M.F.
Published: November 2020

Background: The oral health of elderly populations is a significant concern, as it is closely linked to general health and health-related quality of life. Poor oral health exacerbates oral diseases, leading to an increased risk of non-communicable diseases and self-care dependence, particularly in the elderly, worldwide. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) play influential roles in individual oral care. However, the evidence of KAP related to oral care among the elderly is still inadequate. Objective: This study aimed to examine KAP and their associated factors related to oral care among the elderly community. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was used. The eligible subjects were recruited, using convenience sampling and snowball sampling. Results: A total of 385 elderly individuals were included, and 51.4% were women. The mean age was 71.66 (SD 6.28). Knowledge was reportedly poor, as more than 50% elderly answered several questions incorrectly. The mean attitude and practices scores were 44.94 (SD 6.33) and 68.90 (SD 10.44), respectively. There was a significant correlation among knowledge, attitudes, and practices (p < 0.001). Multivariable regression analysis revealed numerous factors had remarkably significant association with knowledge [R2 = 0.30, F (4,380) = 11.96, p < 0.001], attitudes [R2 = 0.28, F (6,378) = 9.27, p < 0.001], and practices [R2 = 0.31, F (5,379) = 12.34, p < 0.001], particularly education levels, full-time employment, and self-care independence. Conclusions: Based on the KAP theoretical model, KAP are closely interrelated. Identified factors associated with KAP are useful to understand at-risk groups. Elderly individuals at lower education levels, with poor family support and inadequate self-care independence, have poor KAP related to oral care. Therefore, this study improves insight for health promotion developers, suggesting that more attention should be paid to at-risk elderly groups’ oral health. To enhance participation in dental care and improve oral care performance in the elderly, educational program containing oral health knowledge should be offered to at-risk groups. Family support and involvement are also important for improving oral care among elderly individuals.
A Low-Intensity Internet-Based Intervention Focused on the Promotion of Positive Affect for the Treatment of Depression in Spanish Primary Care: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vara Mª Dolores , Mira Adriana , Miragall Marta , García-Palacios Azucena , Botella Cristina , Gili Margalida , Riera-Serra Pau , García-Campayo Javier , Mayoral-Cleries Fermín , Baños Rosa Mª
Published: November 2020

Background: A large number of low-intensity Internet-based interventions (IBIs) for the treatment of depression have emerged in Primary Care; most of them focused on decreasing negative emotions. However, recent studies have highlighted the importance of addressing positive affect (PA) as well. This study is a secondary analysis of a randomized control trial. We examine the role of an IBI focused on promoting PA in patients with depression in Primary Care (PC). The specific objectives were to explore the profile of the patients who benefit the most and to analyze the change mechanisms that predict a significantly greater improvement in positive functioning measures. Methods: 56 patients were included. Measures of depression, affect, well-being, health-related quality of life, and health status were administered. Results: Participants who benefited the most were those who had lower incomes and education levels and worse mental health scores and well-being at baseline (7.9%–39.5% of explained variance). Improvements in depression severity and PA were significant predictors of long-term change in well-being, F (3,55) = 17.78, p < 0.001, R2 = 47.8%. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of implementing IBIs in PC and the relevance of PA as a key target in Major Depressive Disorder treatment.
Common Running Musculoskeletal Injuries and Associated Factors among Recreational Gorge Marathon Runners: An Investigation from 2013 to 2018 Taroko Gorge Marathons
Authors: Hsu Chia-Li , Yang Chich-Haung , Wang Jen-Hung , Liang Chung-Chao
Published: November 2020

Many studies exist on the incidence and related risk factors of running injuries, such as those obtained during marathons. However, in gorge-terrain marathons, an insufficient number of reports exist in the relevant literature. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries occurring in participants in the 2013 to 2018 Taroko Gorge Marathons in Taiwan and the distribution of running injuries and related influencing factors. A total of 718 runners who entered the physiotherapy station presented with records of treatment and injuries and filled out a running-related injury and self-training questionnaire for further statistical analysis. The association between risk factors and injury were evaluated by logistic regression. The injured areas on the lower extremities after the gorge marathon were as follows: 28% in the knees, 20% in the posterior calves, 13% in the thighs, 10% in the ankles, and 8% in the feet. The analysis of injury-related risk factors showed that male athletes demonstrated a higher risk of thigh injury than female athletes (OR = 2.42, p = 0.002). Underweight runners exhibited a higher risk of thigh injury (OR = 3.35, p = 0.006). We conclude that in the gorge marathon the rates of knee, calf, thigh, and foot injuries are significantly increased. Medical professionals, coaches, and runners may use the findings of this study to reduce the potential risk of running injuries in marathons.
Unboxed: US Young Adult Tobacco Users’ Responses to a New Heated Tobacco Product
Authors: Kim Minji , Watkins Shannon Lea , Koester Kimberly A. , Mock Jeremiah , Kim Hyunjin Cindy , Olson Sarah , Harvanko Arit Michael , Ling Pamela M.
Published: November 2020

The heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS was authorized for sale in the US in 2019. We investigated how young adults with experience using multiple tobacco products reacted to, perceived, and developed interest in IQOS, informing policies that might prevent HTPs from becoming ubiquitous. We used a novel qualitative method in which 33 young adult tobacco users in California (fall 2019) “unboxed” an IQOS device, tobacco sticks, and marketing materials and narrated their impressions and opinions. We conducted content and thematic analyses of participants’ reactions, sensory experiences, and interest. Multiple attributes influenced appeal for participants, including sleek electronic design, novel technology, perceived harmfulness, complexity, and high cost. The “no smoke” claim and heating technology suggested that smoking IQOS was safer than smoking cigarettes. Public health programs should closely monitor HTP marketing and uptake, particularly as “reduced exposure” claims were authorized in July 2020. Evidence-based regulations (e.g., requiring plain packaging for tobacco sticks), actions addressing IQOS’ unique attributes (e.g., regulating device packaging to reduce high-tech appeal), and public education might help to counter the appeal generated by potentially misleading IQOS marketing tactics.
Non-Smoker’s Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke in South Africa during 2017
Authors: Ngobese Senamile P. , Egbe Catherine O. , Londani Mukhethwa , Ayo-Yusuf Olalekan A.
Published: November 2020

Current South African tobacco control law allows for 25% designated smoking areas in some indoor public places. This study investigates non-smokers’ exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) in workplaces, homes, cafés/restaurants, and shebeens (local bars) using data from the 2017 South African Social Attitude Survey. Factors associated with any level of exposure were explored using multiple-variable-adjusted logistic regression analysis. The sample of 3063 participants (16+ years old), comprised 51.7% females and 78.5% Black Africans. The current smoking prevalence from this study was 21.5%. About 47% of non-smokers reported exposure to SHS in at least one location. Females were significantly less likely to be exposed to SHS in all locations except at home compared to males. Adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that females, adults aged 45–54 years, 55–64 years, and 65+ years were significantly less likely to be exposed to SHS (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.63, 0.60, 0.55, and 0.24, respectively) than males and those aged 16–24 years. Those who identified as Coloureds were significantly more likely to be exposed to SHS (AOR = 1.69) than Black Africans. This study found that nearly half of non-smokers reported exposure to SHS. A 100% smoke-free policy consistent with the World Health Organisation (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control would protect more people from exposure to SHS in South Africa.
What Socio-Economic and Political Factors Lead to Global Pesticide Dependence? A Critical Review from a Social Science Perspective
Authors: Hu Zhanping
Published: November 2020

Dependence on chemical pesticides has become one of the most pressing challenges to global environmental sustainability and public health. Considerable regulatory efforts have been taken to mitigate pesticide dependence, which however has resulted in a prevalent ‘managerial failure’. Massive pesticide application has generated severe genetic resistance from pests, which has in turn further aggravated pesticide dependence and thus induced agrochemical industries to develop new pesticide varieties. This review proposes to look beyond the resistance-dependence nexus and presents a comprehensive discussion about global pesticide dependence in a social science perspective, i.e., revealing the socio-economic and political factors that reinforce pesticide dependence. These factors are classified into five intertwined themes: (1) agricultural regime, (2) social process of pesticide application, (3) economic analysis, (4) politics and governance, and (5) promotional failure of alternatives. It is found that pesticide dependence is not just a technological issue in the sphere of natural sciences, but more a human-made issue, with deep-seated socio-economic and political reasons. Addressing contemporary trap of global pesticide dependence entails a full acknowledgement and comprehension of the complex and intertwined factors. Furthermore, this review identifies two major explanatory approaches underlying the extant social science literature: a structuralist approach that stresses macro-level structures such as institutions, policies and paradigms, and an individualist approach that focuses on the decision-making of farmers at the micro level. This review recognizes the limitations of the two approaches and calls for transcending the duality. This study advocates a policy framework that emphasizes alignment and coordination from multi-dimensions, multi-actors and multi-scales. For future research, collaborations between natural and social scientists, and more integrated and interdisciplinary approaches should be strengthened.
Implications of Altered Endosome and Lysosome Biology in Space Environments
Authors: Johnson Ian R. D. , Nguyen Catherine T. , Wise Petra , Grimm Daniela
Published: November 2020

Space exploration poses multiple challenges for mankind, not only on a technical level but also to the entire physiology of the space traveller. The human system must adapt to several environmental stressors, microgravity being one of them. Lysosomes are ubiquitous to every cell and essential for their homeostasis, playing significant roles in the regulation of autophagy, immunity, and adaptation of the organism to changes in their environment, to name a few. Dysfunction of the lysosomal system leads to age-related diseases, for example bone loss, reduced immune response or cancer. As these conditions have been shown to be accelerated following exposure to microgravity, this review elucidates the lysosomal response to real and simulated microgravity. Microgravity activates the endo-lysosomal system, with resulting impacts on bone loss, muscle atrophy and stem cell differentiation. The investigation of lysosomal adaptation to microgravity can be beneficial in the search for new biomarkers or therapeutic approaches to several disease pathologies on earth as well as the potential to mitigate pathophysiology during spaceflight.