bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of an Index for Functionally Important Respiratory Symptoms among Adults in the Nationally Representative Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study, 2014–2016
Authors: Halenar Michael J. , Sargent James D. , Edwards Kathryn C. , Woloshin Steven , Schwartz Lisa , Emond Jennifer , Tanski Susanne , Pierce John P. , Taylor Kristie A. , Lauten Kristin , Goniewicz Maciej L. , Niaura Raymond , Anic Gabriella , Chen Yanling , Callahan-Lyon Priscilla , Gardner Lisa D. , Thekkudan Theresa , Borek Nicolette , Kimmel Heather L. , Cummings K. Michael , Hyland Andrew , Brunette Mary F.
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study is to validate the seven-item wheezing module from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Children (ISAAC) in the nationally representative Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study. Adult participants with complete Wave 2–3 data were selected, including those with asthma but excluding those with COPD and other respiratory diseases (n = 16,295). We created a nine-point respiratory symptom index from the ISAAC questions, assessed the reliability of the index, and examined associations with self-reported asthma diagnosis. Threshold values were assessed for association with functional outcomes. The weighted prevalence for one or more respiratory symptom was 18.0% (SE = 0.5) for adults without asthma, 70.1% (SE = 1.3) for those with lifetime asthma, 75.7% (SE = 3.7) for adults with past-year asthma not on medications, and 92.6% (SE = 1.6) for those on medications. Cronbach’s alpha for the respiratory symptom index was 0.86. Index scores of ≥2 or ≥3 yielded functionally important respiratory symptom prevalence of 7–10%, adequate sensitivity and specificity for identifying asthma, and consistent independent associations with all functional outcomes and tobacco use variables. Respiratory symptom index scores of ≥2 or ≥3 are indicative of functionally important respiratory symptoms and could be used to assess the relationship between tobacco use and respiratory health.
The Regime of Rural Ecotourism Stakeholders in Poverty-Stricken Areas of China: Implications for Rural Revitalization
Authors: Sun Keke , Xing Zeyu , Cao Xia , Li Weijia
Published: September 2021

The rural ecotourism system can be defined as a complex association of stakeholders. This system of rural ecotourism in relatively poor areas of China can influence rural revitalization strategies. The purpose of this study is to plan a rural ecotourism system among the tourism enterprises, local residents and government by using an evolutionary game theory. Based on the theoretical analysis, an evolution game model for the three stakeholders is developed and the evolution process of strategies is described by replicator dynamic equations. Then, a simulation method and case was used to analyze the stability of interactions among the stakeholders and determine an equilibrium solution in the finite rationality case. Finally, specific control strategies were proposed to suppress instability and an ideal evolutionarily stable strategy was obtained. This provides a theoretical basis for achieving a win-win situation among the three parties. The results of this study suggest appropriate roles for stakeholders in the rural ecotourism project that provide management implications for rural tourism activities, local economy and rural revitalization.
Baby Boomers Who Provide Informal Care for People Living with Dementia in the Community
Authors: Miyawaki Christina E. , Bouldin Erin D. , Taylor Christopher A. , McGuire Lisa C.
Published: September 2021

One in four Baby Boomers fills the informal caregiver role in the United States. The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of Baby Boomers who are informal caregivers for people living with dementia and compare their physical and mental health status to caregivers for persons with conditions other than dementia using 2015–2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data (N = 10,602). We identified caregiving status (assisting a family member/friend with a long-term illness or disability in the past month, managing personal care, and not caring for a child/grandchild) and whether the care recipient’s major health condition was dementia. We calculated weighted estimates and used chi-square tests and log-binomial regression for comparisons of selected characteristics. Among Baby Boomer caregivers, 15.4% were caring for someone with dementia. Dementia caregivers were more likely to be female, caring for a parent/parent-in-law, and providing care longer than caregivers for persons without dementia. After adjusting for sociodemographic and caregiving characteristics, the prevalence of fair/poor health, frequent mental distress, and chronic conditions were similar across types of caregivers. Although no differences in caregiver’s physical and mental health by care recipient’s dementia status were found, we should underscore the importance of maintaining Baby Boomer caregivers’ health and well-being.
The Association between Lifestyle Changes and Psychological Distress during COVID-19 Lockdown: The Moderating Role of COVID-Related Stressors
Authors: Alon-Tirosh Michal , Hadar-Shoval Dorit , Asraf Kfir , Tannous-Haddad Lubna , Tzischinsky Orna
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying circumstances (lockdown and social distancing) have been found to cause lifestyle habit changes. While negative changes (adopting risky behaviors) are known to be associated with high psychological distress, the effect of positive changes (adopting health-enhancing behaviors) has yet to be investigated. This study examined the association between the nature of changes and psychological distress, in addition to the moderating effect of “COVID-related stressors”. Online questionnaires, completed by 1969 participants, assessed the following: lifestyle changes due to COVID-19 with regard to cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, sleep quality, and eating habits; COVID-related stressors; Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale. Positive and negative changes were associated with higher psychological distress compared to no lifestyle change, and there was a moderating effect of COVID-related stressors in the association between COVID-related lifestyle changes and distress. In conclusion, to reduce psychological distress in overwhelming circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic, people should carefully consider whether to make changes in their lifestyle habits before doing so, even if these changes are perceived as positive and health-enhancing. Furthermore, efforts should be focused on reducing the perception of stress from COVID-19 by working on personal and mental perceptions of the situation.
Audiovisual Content to Promote Women Scientists on the YouTube Channels of Spanish Biosanitary Research Institutes
Authors: Almela-Baeza Javier , Febrero Beatriz , Pérez-Manzano Antonio , Bonache-Ibáñez Adrián , Ramírez Pablo
Published: September 2021

YouTube is an appropriate social network for disseminating scientific audiovisual content, and this content can help to make the position of women in science, and gender equality, more visible. The aim of this study is to analyse the visibility of women scientists on the YouTube channels of Spanish biosanitary research institutes accredited by the Instituto de Salud Carlos III. A mixed study of the channels and communication departments of the institutions has been carried out, analysing metrics of audience impact, the type of audiovisual production and the use of YouTube in the institution. Of the 1914 videos analysed, 4% (n = 76) of the content is related to the visibility of women scientists and has little impact. The audiovisual production is basic and informative, without a dramatic narrative structure and focused on transmitting the personal experiences of women scientists. It is necessary to invest resources in institutions to improve the production and dissemination of content that makes women in the scientific field more visible, especially among students.
Quality of Life and Activities of Daily Living among Patients with Complete Cervical Spinal Cord Injury and Surgical Treatment in Vietnam
Authors: Tien Nguyen Le Bao , Thanh Vo Van , Hanh Khuc Thi Hong , Anh Pham Gia , Huyen Le Thi Minh , Tu Ngo Thanh , Mai Dang Thi Ngoc , Toi Phung Lam
Published: September 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is defined as temporary or permanent changes in spinal cord function and reflex activity. The objective of this study is to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and activities of daily living (ADL) among postoperative surgery patients with complete cervical SCI in Vietnam and to explore the factors associated with these indices. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 88 adults in Vietnam from June 2018 to June 2019. The EQ-5D-5L, ADL, and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) were applied. Multivariate Tobit regression was adopted to determine factors that were associated with HRQOL, ADL, and IADL. Results: Participants who were in American Spinal Cord Injury Association (ASIA) scale group A (ASIA-A) had the lowest ADL, IADL index, and HRQOL score (p < 0.001). HRQoL and ADL were affected by health insurance coverage, occupation, type of fracture, and IADL. Meanwhile, IADL was significantly associated with living areas and ASIA. Low HRQoL among patients suffering from SCI was observed. Attention should be given to outcomes related to a disability during clinical treatment and should be treated effectively in the recovery.
Long-Term Quality of Life (BREAST-Q) in Patients with Mastectomy and Breast Reconstruction
Authors: García-Solbas Silvia , Lorenzo-Liñán Miguel Ángel , Castro-Luna Gracia
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: Mastectomy is the surgical treatment of choice in 20–30% of women with breast cancer. In addition, more women are undergoing risk-reducing mastectomies. It is necessary to study these women’s quality of life and satisfaction after surgery, as studies report high percentages of dissatisfaction with the results. The publication of the BREAST-Q© questionnaire in 2009 provided a valuable tool to measure these results. (2) Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study of 70 patients who underwent mastectomy and breast reconstruction, both therapeutic and prophylactic, in the last 10 years to whom the BREAST-Q© 2.0-Reconstruction Module questionnaire was provided for completion. (3) Results: The sexual satisfaction scale was the lowest score of the entire questionnaire (51.84 ± 21.13), while the highest score was obtained on the satisfaction with the surgeon scale (91.86 ± 18.11). The satisfaction with care scales showed the importance of the evaluation of these items for future studies. More than half of the patients of the study (51.5%) underwent at least one reoperation after the first surgery, with an average of one (1.15) intervention per patient and a maximum of five. (4) Conclusions: Mastectomy and breast reconstruction have a high negative impact on the sexual well-being of patients. The high percentage of reoperations is a factor to consider because of its possible influence on these patients’ quality of life and satisfaction.
Practical Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Indoor Air Quality and Thermal Comfort in Kindergartens. A Case Study of Slovenia
Authors: Lovec Vesna , Premrov Miroslav , Leskovar Vesna Žegarac
Published: September 2021

The experimental monitoring of carbon dioxide concentration was carried out in kindergartens in Slovenia, together with indoor air temperature and relative humidity, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the research was to estimate the practical impact of the pandemic on indoor air quality and thermal comfort. The case study sample included buildings with different architectural typology, which are predominantly present in the building stock of Slovenia. The monitoring process lasted for 125 days before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results have shown a better indoor air quality in kindergartens during the pandemic, mostly due to ventilation protocols and almost imperceptibly changed indoor air temperature. The COVID-19 pandemic affected air quality in kindergarten classrooms in Slovenia by reducing the average carbon dioxide concentration when children were present in classrooms by 30%.
Fate of Functional Bacterial and Eukaryotic Community Regulated by Earthworms during Vermicomposting of Dewatered Sludge, Studies Based on the 16S rDNA and 18S rDNA Sequencing of Active Cells
Authors: Yang Jun , Huang Kui , Peng Lansheng , Li Jianhui , Liu Aozhan
Published: September 2021

DNA sequencing of active cells involved in vermicomposting can clarify the roles of earthworms in regulating functional microorganisms. This study aimed to investigate the effect of earthworms on functional microbial communities in sludge by comparing biodegradation treatments with and without earthworms. PCR and high throughput sequencing based on pretreatment of propidium monoazide (PMA) were used to detect the changes in active bacterial 16S rDNA and eukaryotic 18S rDNA during vermicomposting. The results showed that the nitrate in sludge vermicomposting and control were significantly different from day 10, with a more stable product at day 30 of vermicomposting. Compared with the control, the Shannon indexes of active bacteria and eukaryotes decreased by 1.9% and 31.1%, respectively, in sludge vermicompost. Moreover, Proteobacteria (36.2%), Actinobacteria (25.6%), and eukaryotic Cryptomycota (80.3%) were activated in the sludge vermicompost. In contrast, the control had Proteobacteria (44.8%), Bacteroidetes (14.2%), Cryptomycota (50.00%), and Arthropoda (36.59%). Network analysis showed that environmental factors had different correlations between active bacterial and eukaryotic community structures. This study suggests that earthworms can decrease the diversity of bacterial and eukaryotic communities, forming a specific-functional microbial community and thus accelerating organic matter decomposition during vermicomposting of dewatered sludge.
Does Reflection on Everyday Events Enhance Meaning in Life and Well-Being among Emerging Adults? Self-Efficacy as Mediator between Meaning in Life and Well-Being
Authors: Czyżowska Natalia , Gurba Ewa
Published: September 2021

In recent years, the issue of the meaning in life has aroused particularly great interest in researchers considering the question of whether and how, using simple interventions, outside the therapeutic office, the sense of meaning in life and well-being can be strengthened. The aim of this study was to explore whether interventions based on reflection on everyday, stressful situations can contribute to fostering the sense of meaning in life and psychological well-being among emerging adults. Additionally, we aimed to explore relationships between the above-mentioned constructs and self-efficacy. The research focuses on emerging adults, who, as statistics show, are the most vulnerable among all adults to various mental problems. A pretest–posttest control group design was used. The study involved 80 emerging adults (56 women and 24 men) who were randomly assigned to the experimental group, which completed specially prepared diaries for a week, or the control group. Participants completed the Meaning in Life Questionnaire, the Generalised Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Ryff Scales of Psychological Well-Being twice. In the experimental group, significant differences were noted between pretest and posttest in psychological well-being, especially in the area of relationships with others (Mpretest = 59.3; Mposttest = 65.07; t(39) = −11.40; p = 0.001) and purpose in life (Mpretest = 54.85; Mposttest = 58.21; t(39) = −3.15; p = 0.003), as well as self-efficacy (Mpretest = 28.06; Mposttest = 29.60; t(39) = −2.82; p = 0.007). There were no differences in the level of meaning in life. The analysis carried out showed that self-efficacy mediates the relationship between presence of meaning in life and psychological well-being (the Aroian test: z = 4.48; SE = 0.11; p = 0.0007).
Helicopter Inside Cabin Acoustic Evaluation: A Case Study—IAR PUMA 330
Authors: Deaconu Marius , Cican Grigore , Toma Adina-Cristina , Drăgășanu Luminița Ioana
Published: September 2021

This paper presents an inside-cabin acoustic evaluation of the IAR PUMA 330 helicopter, manufactured by IAR S.A. Brasov. In this study, based on the acoustic assessment inside the helicopter, areas with high noise levels are identified. In this regard, several tests were carried out in accordance with the ISO 5129 standard. In the first stage of the assessment, a measurement campaign was performed to identify the acoustic leaks from the outside noise sources propagating inside the cabin (in the door area) and the acoustic attenuation of the helicopter structure. These tests were performed on the factory runway, with the helicopter in parked position (ground tests). During the ground tests, the helicopter engines were turned off. The tests consisted of placing two loudspeakers directed towards the helicopter door and generating pink noise. Inside the helicopter, the entire door frame opening was scanned with an intensity probe to identify acoustic leaks areas. The second assessment stage was to determine the areas of the cabin with the highest levels of noise. Within the measurement campaign, 16 microphones were placed inside the cabin, at the level of the passengers’ heads, arranged in seven zones. The tests were carried out with the helicopter engines started, staying at fixed point above the ground (hovering), and then a flight test, in which all the maneuvers necessary for the use of the helicopter were performed (in-flight tests). Based on the measurement results, it was possible to highlight the noise spectral components in each of the seven areas. The noise assessment revealed high noise levels inside the cabin, having as main noise sources the transmission gear and the door area, leading to the need for reducing the noise exposure for passengers and crew, thus the need to reduce noise levels inside the helicopter.
Self-Concept in Primary School Student with Dyslexia: The Relationship to Parental Rearing Styles
Authors: Huang Anyan , Sun Mingfan , Zhang Xuanzhi , Lin Yuhang , Lin Xuecong , Wu Kusheng , Huang Yanhong
Published: September 2021

Dyslexic children may be more likely to form a negative self-concept, especially with poor educational experiences and negative parenting. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the self-concept of Chinese dyslexic children in primary school, and explore the influence factors of self-concept as well as its relationship with parenting style. A total of 50 children with dyslexia and 50 non-dyslexics matched for age, grade and gender participated in the study. We used the Piers-Harris children’s self-concept scale (PHCSS) and the Chinese version of Egna Minnen Beträffande Uppfostran for Children (EMBU-C) to evaluate the self-concept and parenting styles of the study population. Our results indicated that the academic competence, popularity and general self-concept in the dyslexic group were significantly lower than those in the control group (p < 0.05). Based on the multivariate linear regression, we also found that residence (β = −0.32, p < 0.05) and physical activity (β = 0.36, p < 0.01) may influence factors self-concept in dyslexic children. In addition, a moderate and positive correlation was found between the self-concept of physical appearance and maternal emotional warmth (r = 0.36, p < 0.05) by using the Spearman correlation analysis. Our outcomes suggested that children with dyslexia have a poorer self-concept than typical developing children. The self-concept of dyslexic children should be improved in order to achieve better physical and mental development.
Home Tobacco Use Policies and Exposure to Secondhand Tobacco Smoke: Findings from Waves 1 through 4 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study
Authors: Rivard Cheryl , Brown Anthony , Kasza Karin , Bansal-Travers Maansi , Hyland Andrew
Published: September 2021

Background: The 2006 Surgeon General’s Report recommended the elimination of smoking in homes as an effective protective measure against the harmful effects of secondhand tobacco smoke exposure. This study aims to examine trends in the prevalence and levels of the adoption of home tobacco use policies specifically for cigarettes, e-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and the relationships between home tobacco use policies and self-reported exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke. Methods: This study utilizes data from Wave 1 (2013–2014) through Wave 4 (2016–2018) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, a large prospective cohort study of youths and adults in the United States which collected information about both smoke-free and tobacco-free home policies. We present the weighted, population-based, self-reported prevalence of home tobacco use policies overall and by product, and the average number of self-reported hours of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure by levels of home tobacco policy and by survey wave. In addition, we examine the characteristics of those who adopted (by yes or no) a home tobacco use ban between survey waves. Results: We found a high prevalence of completely tobacco-free home policies (69.5%). However, 10.6% of adults allow the use of any type of tobacco product inside their homes, and 19.8% have a policy allowing the use of some types of tobacco products and banning the use of others. Adults with a complete tobacco use ban inside their homes were more likely to be nonusers of tobacco (79.9%); living with children in the home (71.8%); at or above the poverty level (70.8%); non-white (76.0%); Hispanic (82.7%); and aged 45 or older (71.9%). The adoption of 100% tobacco-free home policies is associated with a 64% decrease in secondhand smoke exposure among youths and a 69% decrease in exposure among adults. Conclusions: Most US adults have implemented tobacco-free home policies; however, there is still exposure to SHS in the home, for both adults and children, particularly in the homes of tobacco users. Additional research should investigate tobacco-free home policies for different types of products and what effect they have on future tobacco use behaviors.
Socioeconomic Inequalities in Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour among the Chilean Population: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Vega-Salas María Jesús , Caro Paola , Johnson Laura , Armstrong Miranda E. G. , Papadaki Angeliki
Published: September 2021

Socioeconomic inequalities in physical (in)activity and sedentary behaviours are key mediators in obesity and health socioeconomic inequalities. Considering the high and uneven obesity rates in Chile, this review aims to systematically assess the socioeconomic inequalities in physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) among the Chilean population from different age groups. Peer-reviewed and grey literature were searched from inception until 31st December 2019 in PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Sciences and LILACS. Publications in English and Spanish, from observational studies that reported the comparison of at least one indicator of PA or SB between at least two groups of different socioeconomic positions (SEP), from the general Chilean population, were included. Data searches, screening, extraction, and quality assessment, using the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale for observational studies, were conducted by two independent researchers. Seventeen articles (from 16 studies) met the inclusion criteria (14 cross-sectional; two cohort). Across these, quality was considered low, medium and high for 19%, 69% and 13%, respectively. Results showed consistent evidence for a lower leisure-time PA and sitting time, and higher physical inactivity among adults from the lower, compared to the highest, SEP groups. Associations between SEP and total PA, moderate-to-vigorous PA, low PA, and transport and work-related PA were inconsistent. These findings provide insights to public health and physical activity researchers and policymakers aiming to reduce socioeconomic inequalities in PA and SB in Chile and other countries.
The Effect of Cold Exposure on Cognitive Performance in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Falla Marika , Micarelli Alessandro , Hüfner Katharina , Strapazzon Giacomo
Published: September 2021

Several aspects of cognition can be affected after cold exposure, but contradictory results have been reported regarding affected cognitive domains. The aim of the current systematic review was to evaluate the effects of specific cold exposure on cognitive performance in healthy subjects. A systematic search was performed using MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE (Scopus) and PsycINFO databases according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Inclusion criteria were healthy subjects exposed to a cold environment (either simulated or not) and cognitive performance related to cold exposure with an experimental design. The literature search identified 18 studies, eight studies investigated the effect of cold air exposure and ten the effect of cold water immersion on cognitive performance of healthy subjects. There were several differences among the studies (environmental temperature reached, time of exposure, timing, and type of cognitive test administration). Cold exposure induced in most of the experimental settings (15 of 18) an impairment of CP even before accidental hypothermia was established. The most investigated and affected cognitive domains were attention and processing speed, executive function, and memory. Gender differences and effects of repeated exposure and possible acclimation on cognitive performance need further studies to be confirmed.
Antitumor and Antioxidant Activity of S-Methyl Methionine Sulfonium Chloride against Liver Cancer Induced in Wistar Albino Rats by Diethyl Nitrosamine and Carbon Tertrachloride
Authors: Abouzed Tarek Kamal , Althobaiti Fayez , Abdelkhlek Nesreen Adel , Eldomany Ehab Bedir , Nasr Nasr Elsayed , Sadek Kadry Mohamed , El-Shazly Samir Ahmed , Kahilo Khaled A. , Dorghamm Doaa Abdallha
Published: September 2021

Liver disease, especially liver cancer, has become a threat facing the world. Now, antioxidant products are garnering great attention for the treatment and prevention of many diseases. S-Methyl methionine sulfonium chloride (MMSC) is a methionine derivative and is present in many vegetables and has anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidants. This is the first study aiming to investigate the antitumor activity of the MMSC. This study was carried out on 60 male Wistar albino rats (4–6 weeks old age) and divided into four groups, with the first group as normal control, second group as hepatocarcinoma induced by diethyl nitrosamine and carbon tetrachloride (DEN/CCL4) group, third group as normal rats treated with MMSC, and fourth group as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) induced rats treated with MMSC. Our findings revealed that MMSC administration after HCC induction significantly improved (p < 0.05) the liver function biomarkers, including AST, GGT, albumin, globulin, and albumin/globulin ratio (A/G), in comparison with those in the HCC group. Moreover, the histopathological changes of the liver tissue in the HCC group were improved by MMSC treatment. Likewise, the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), transforming growth factor (TGF-1β), and glypican 3 (GP3) were downregulated by MMSC treatment after HCC induction in comparison with those in the HCC-induced group. In conclusion, MMSC showed antitumor activity against HCC induction by DEN/CCl4 through decreasing lipid peroxide formation, the expression level of an inflammatory cytokines such as (TNF-α), immunoregulatory cytokines such as (TGF-1β), induced nitric oxide synthase, and glypican 3.
Arsenic Secondary Methylation Capacity Is Inversely Associated with Arsenic Exposure-Related Muscle Mass Reduction
Authors: Sarker Md. Khalequzzaman , Tony Selim Reza , Siddique Abu Eabrahim , Karim Md. Rezaul , Haque Nazmul , Islam Zohurul , Islam Md. Shofikul , Khatun Moriom , Islam Jahidul , Hossain Shakhawoat , Alam Saud Zahangir , Miyataka Hideki , Sumi Daigo , Barchowsky Aaron , Himeno Seiichiro , Hossain Khaled
Published: September 2021

Skeletal muscle mass reduction has been implicated in insulin resistance (IR) that promotes cardiometabolic diseases. We have previously reported that arsenic exposure increases IR concomitantly with the reduction of skeletal muscle mass among individuals exposed to arsenic. The arsenic methylation capacity is linked to the susceptibility to some arsenic exposure-related diseases. However, it remains unknown whether the arsenic methylation capacity affects the arsenic-induced reduction of muscle mass and elevation of IR. Therefore, this study examined the associations between the arsenic methylation status and skeletal muscle mass measures with regard to IR by recruiting 437 participants from low- and high-arsenic exposure areas in Bangladesh. The subjects’ skeletal muscle mass was estimated by their lean body mass (LBM) and serum creatinine levels. Subjects’ drinking water arsenic concentrations were positively associated with total urinary arsenic concentrations and the percentages of MMA, as well as inversely associated with the percentages of DMA and the secondary methylation index (SMI). Subjects’ LBM and serum creatinine levels were positively associated with the percentage of DMA and SMI, as well as inversely associated with the percentage of MMA. HOMA-IR showed an inverse association with SMI, with a confounding effect of sex. Our results suggest that reduced secondary methylation capacity is involved in the arsenic-induced skeletal muscle loss that may be implicated in arsenic-induced IR and cardiometabolic diseases.
Swallowing Function Evaluation in a Patient with Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker Disease with Pro105Leu: A Case Report
Authors: Nakane Ayako , Hasegawa Shohei , Ishii Miki , Tamai Tomoe , Moritoyo Rieko , Saito Mitsuko , Ando Mariko , Tohara Haruka
Published: September 2021

Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker disease (GSS) is a genetic prion disease. Swallowing function evaluation in patients with GSS remains unclear. Here, we describe a case of videofluoroscopic examination of swallowing (VF) to facilitate continued oral ingestion in a patient with P105L GSS. A 67-year-old woman developed gait disturbance and Parkinsonism symptoms at the age of 54 years. Since her family wanted her to continue oral ingestion, we performed VF, which revealed impairment and preservation of the oral and pharyngeal phases, respectively. Moreover, the impairment of the oral phase was improved by adjusting the patient’s posture and food consistency. A swallowing function evaluation based on the condition of a patient with GSS may facilitate continued oral ingestion.
Analysis of COVID-19 in Professionals Working in Geriatric Environment: Multicenter Prospective Study
Authors: Mihai Anca-Maria , Barben Jérémy , Dipanda Mélanie , Vovelle Jérémie , Nuss Valentine , Baudin-Senegas Camille , Putot Alain , Manckoundia Patrick
Published: September 2021

Healthcare workers (HCWs) are exposed to a higher risk of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) contamination. This prospective multicenter study describes the characteristics of HCWs tested for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) while working in a geriatric environment. We also compared HCWs with a positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) assay (RTPCR+ group) and those with a negative test result (RTPCR− group). Between 15/5/2020 and 15/9/2020, 258 HCWs, employed in the acute geriatric unit (AGU), geriatric rehabilitation unit (GRU) or nursing home of three hospitals in Burgundy (France) were invited to complete an online survey. Among the 171 respondents, 83 participants, with mean age 42 years and 87.9% female, were tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among these 83 participants, COVID-19 was confirmed in 38 cases (RTPCR+ group) of which 36 were symptomatic, and the RTPCR assay was negative in 45 cases (RTPCR− group) of which 20 participants were symptomatic. A total of 22.9% (of 83) had comorbidities, 21.7% were active smokers, and 65.1% had received the flu vaccine. A total of 37.3% worked in AGU, 19.3% in GRU and 16.9% in nursing homes. The most common symptom described was headache (23.2%), followed by fatigue or cough (12.5% each), and fever or myalgia (10.7% each). There were more participants with normal body mass index (p = 0.03) in the RTPCR+ group. In contrast, there were more users of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (p = 0.01), active smokers (p = 0.03) and flu vaccinated (p = 0.01) in the RTPCR− group. No difference was found between the two groups for the type of work (p = 0.20 for physicians and p = 0.18 for nurses). However, acquiring COVID-19 was significantly associated with working in AGU (p < 0.001) and nursing homes (p = 0.001). There were significantly more users of surgical masks (p = 0.035) in the RTPCR+ group and more filtering facepiece-2 mask users (p = 0.016) in the RTPCR− group. Our results reflect the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic in France. Further studies are needed to evaluate and track the risks and consequences of COVID-19 in HCWs.
Exploring the Spatial–Temporal Analysis of Coastline Changes Using Place Name Information on Hainan Island, China
Authors: Xia Jisheng , Luan Guize , Zhao Fei , Peng Zhiyan , Song Lu , Tan Shucheng , Zhao Zhifang
Published: September 2021

A coastline is the boundary zone between land and sea, an active zone of human social production activities and an area where the ecology is fragile and easy to change. The traditional method to analyze temporal and spatial changes in the coastline is to extract the coastline through remote sensing, LiDAR, and field sampling and analyze the temporal and spatial changes with statistical data. The coastline extracted by these methods has high spatial and temporal resolution, but it requires remote sensing images and data obtained by other sensors, so it is impossible to extract coastlines from before the emergence of remote sensing technology. This paper improves the coastline generation algorithm. Firstly, a triangulated irregular network is used to generate the preliminary rough coastline, and then, each line segment is optimized with Python language according to the influence range of the place names to further approach the real coastline. The accuracy of the coastline extracted by this method can reach 80% within 500 m, which is of great significance in the mapping and analysis of small- and medium-scale coastlines. This paper analyzes the changes in the coastline of Hainan Island before the founding of China (pre-founding) and in modern times and analyzes the impact of coastal development on coastline change. Through the analysis, it is found that, from before the founding of the People’s Republic of China to the present, the natural coastline of Hainan Island has become shorter, the artificial coastline has become longer, and the coastline generally presents a trend of advancing toward the ocean. This method realizes coastline construction under the condition of missing remote sensing images and puts forward a new way to study historical coastline changes.
How Did Built Environment Affect Urban Vitality in Urban Waterfronts? A Case Study in Nanjing Reach of Yangtze River
Authors: Fan Zhengxi , Duan Jin , Luo Menglin , Zhan Huanran , Liu Mengru , Peng Wangchongyu
Published: September 2021

The potential of urban waterfronts as vibrant urban spaces has become a focus of urban studies in recent years. However, few studies have examined the relationships between urban vitality and built environment characteristics in urban waterfronts. This study takes advantage of emerging urban big data and adopts hourly Baidu heat map (BHM) data as a proxy for portraying urban vitality along the Yangtze River in Nanjing. The impact of built environment on urban vitality in urban waterfronts is revealed with the ordinary least squares (OLS) and geographically weighted regression (GWR) models. The results show that (1) the distribution of urban vitality in urban waterfronts shows similar agglomeration characteristics on weekdays and weekends, and the identified vibrant cores tend to be the important city and town centers; (2) the building density has the strongest positive associations with urban vitality in urban waterfronts, while the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is negative; (3) the effects of the built environment on urban vitality in urban waterfronts have significant spatial variations. Our findings can provide meaningful guidance and implications for vitality-oriented urban waterfronts planning and redevelopment.
Silver Nanostructures: Limited Sensitivity of Detection, Toxicity and Anti-Inflammation Effects
Authors: Morozova Olga V.
Published: September 2021

Nanosilver with sizes 1–100 nm at least in one dimension is widely used due to physicochemical, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenesis, antiplatelet, antifungal, anticancer, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. Three modes of the nanosilver action were suggested: “Trojan horse”, inductive, and quantum mechanical. The Ag+ cations have an affinity to thiol, amino, phosphate, and carboxyl groups. Multiple mechanisms of action towards proteins, DNA, and membranes reduce a risk of pathogen resistance but inevitably cause toxicity for cells and organisms. Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) are known to generate two reactive oxygen species (ROS)-superoxide (•O2−) and hydroxyl (•OH) radicals, which inhibit the cellular antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) and cause mechanical damage of membranes. Ag+ release and replacement by electrolyte ions with potential formation of insoluble AgCl result in NP instability and interactions of heavy metals with nucleic acids and proteins. Protein shells protect AgNP core from oxidation, dissolution, and aggregation, and provide specific interactions with ligands. These nanoconjugates can be used for immunoassays and diagnostics, but the sensitivity is limited at 10 pg and specificity is restricted by binding with protective proteins (immunoglobulins, fibrinogen, albumin, and others). Thus, broad implementation of Ag nanostructures revealed limitations such as instability; binding with major blood proteins; damage of proteins, nucleic acids, and membranes; and immunosuppression of the majority of cytokines.
A Review of Tabular Data Synthesis Using GANs on an IDS Dataset
Authors: Bourou Stavroula , El Saer Andreas , Velivassaki Terpsichori-Helen , Voulkidis Artemis , Zahariadis Theodore
Published: September 2021

Recent technological innovations along with the vast amount of available data worldwide have led to the rise of cyberattacks against network systems. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) play a crucial role as a defense mechanism in networks against adversarial attackers. Machine Learning methods provide various cybersecurity tools. However, these methods require plenty of data to be trained efficiently, which may be hard to collect or to use due to privacy reasons. One of the most notable Machine Learning tools is the Generative Adversarial Network (GAN), and it has great potential for tabular data synthesis. In this work, we start by briefly presenting the most popular GAN architectures, VanillaGAN, WGAN, and WGAN-GP. Focusing on tabular data generation, CTGAN, CopulaGAN, and TableGAN models are used for the creation of synthetic IDS data. Specifically, the models are trained and evaluated on an NSL-KDD dataset, considering the limitations and requirements that this procedure needs. Finally, based on certain quantitative and qualitative methods, we argue and evaluate the most prominent GANs for tabular network data synthesis.
A Field Evaluation of the LuciTrap and the Western Australian Trap with Three Different Baits Types for Monitoring Lucilia cuprina and Lucilia sericata in New Zealand
Authors: Brett Paul , Lawrence Kevin , Kenyon Paul , Gedye Kristene , Pomroy William
Published: September 2021

Flytraps can be used on farms to monitor the populations of primary strike flies (Lucilia cuprina and Lucilia sericata) and, hence, offer a view regarding the incidence of flystrike on sheep. This study aimed to contrast the specificity and effectiveness of the LuciTrap with its combination of three chemical lures (Lucilures) and the Western Australian Trap with three bait types (LuciLure, Sheep liver with 30% sodium sulphide and squid). A mean model and rate model were fitted to the data. The mean model showed no difference (p > 0.05) in the mean weekly catch for L. cuprina between the Western Australian Trap with LuciLures and the Western Australian Trap baited with sheep liver with 30% sodium sulphide (p < 0.05). Whereas, for L. sericata, no difference (p > 0.05) was found between the Western Australian Trap with LuciLures, the Western Australian Trap baited with sheep liver with 30% sodium sulphide and the LuciTrap. The rate model illustrated that the Western Australian Trap with sheep liver with 30% sodium sulphide and LuciTrap did not differ (p > 0.05) for L. cuprina and L. sericata. Combined, these results indicate that New Zealand farmers can use either the LuciTrap or the Western Australian Trap with sheep liver with 30% sodium sulphide to monitor these target species.
Effects of Climatic Change on the Potential Distribution of Lycoriella Species (Diptera: Sciaridae) of Economic Importance
Authors: Marques Roberta , Duarte Juliano Lessa Pinto , Duarte Adriane da Fonseca , Krüger Rodrigo Ferreira , Silva da Cunha Uemmerson , Osorio-Olvera Luis , Contreras-Díaz Rusby G. , Jiménez-García Daniel
Published: September 2021

Lycoriella species (Sciaridae) are responsible for significant economic losses in greenhouse production (e.g., mushrooms, strawberries, and nurseries). The current distributions of species in the genus are restricted to cold-climate countries. Three species of Lycoriella are of particular economic concern in view of their ability to invade areas in countries across the Northern Hemisphere. We used ecological niche models to determine the potential for range expansion under future climate change scenarios (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) in the distribution of these three species of Lycoriella. Stable environmental suitability under climate change was a dominant theme in these species; however, potential range increases were noted in key countries (e.g., USA, Brazil, and China). Our results illustrate the potential for range expansion in these species in the Southern Hemisphere, including some of the highest greenhouse production areas in the world.
Active Ingredients of Voice Therapy for Muscle Tension Voice Disorders: A Retrospective Data Audit
Authors: Madill Catherine , Chacon Antonia , Kirby Evan , Novakovic Daniel , Nguyen Duy Duong
Published: September 2021

Background: Although voice therapy is the first line treatment for muscle-tension voice disorders (MTVD), no clinical research has investigated the role of specific active ingredients. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of active ingredients in the treatment of MTVD. A retrospective review of a clinical voice database was conducted on 68 MTVD patients who were treated using the optimal phonation task (OPT) and sob voice quality (SVQ), as well as two different processes: task variation and negative practice (NP). Mixed-model analysis was performed on auditory–perceptual and acoustic data from voice recordings at baseline and after each technique. Active ingredients were evaluated using effect sizes. Significant overall treatment effects were observed for the treatment program. Effect sizes ranged from 0.34 (post-NP) to 0.387 (post-SVQ) for overall severity ratings. Effect sizes ranged from 0.237 (post-SVQ) to 0.445 (post-NP) for a smoothed cepstral peak prominence measure. The treatment effects did not depend upon the MTVD type (primary or secondary), treating clinicians, nor the number of sessions and days between sessions. Implementation of individual techniques that promote improved voice quality and processes that support learning resulted in improved habitual voice quality. Both voice techniques and processes can be considered as active ingredients in voice therapy.
3D Considerations and Outcomes of Immediate Single Implant Insertion and Provisionalization at the Maxillary Esthetic Zone: A Long-Term Retrospective Follow-Up Study of Up to 18 Years
Authors: Mijiritsky Eitan , Barone Antonio , Cinar Ihsan Caglar , Nagy Katalin , Shacham Maayan
Published: September 2021

Aim: Long-term studies addressing the outcomes of single immediate implantation and provisionalization at the maxillary esthetic zone are needed. The current study aimed to assess such outcomes along a follow-up period of up to 18 years. Materials and methods: The current study is a continuation follow-up of our previously published up to 6-year follow-up study, dated between the years 2002–2008, performed in a private clinical practice in Tel-Aviv, Israel. A total of 15 patients (23 implants) who had been treated for single-tooth replacement at the maxillary esthetic zone since 2002, underwent clinical and radiographic follow-up evaluations. Primary outcomes included mean Marginal Bone Levels (MBL), with Bleeding on Probing (BOP), implant success rate, prosthetic and esthetic complications evaluated as secondary outcomes. Results: The implant success rate was at 100%. Bone remodeling processes were observed over the follow-up period, with 0.9 mm mean marginal bone loss observed during the first 6 years of observation, followed by −0.13 ± 0.06 mm mean loss after 6 to 18 years. The last finding suggests bone deposition, as reported by other studies (Donati et al., 2012). At the final radiographic evaluation, a mean MBL of 1.35 mm ± 0.16 was demonstrated. No differences with respect to implant type or site were found. A generalized absence of BOP and esthetic complications occurred in two cases as a result of continuous adjacent teeth eruption versus obvious implant ankylosis. Conclusions: Adhering to careful clinical protocols and 3D bone to implant considerations while immediately placing an anterior implant, this treatment approach offers both stable and esthetically acceptable results for the replacement of missing teeth at the maxillary esthetic zone.