bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Architectural and Structural Design Typologies of Multi-Storey Timber Buildings in Europe
Authors: Žegarac Leskovar Vesna , Premrov Miroslav
Published: June 2021

Numerous countries across the globe have witnessed the recent decades’ trend of multi-storey timber buildings on the rise, owing to advances in engineering sciences and timber construction technologies. Despite the growth and numerous advantages of timber construction, the global scale of multi-storey timber construction is still relatively low compared to reinforced concrete and steel construction. One of the reasons for a lower share of high-rise timber buildings lies in the complexity of their design, where the architectural design, the selection of a suitable structural system, and the energy efficiency concept strongly depend on the specific features of the location, particularly climate conditions, wind exposure, and seismic hazard. The aforementioned shows the need for a comprehensive study on existing multi-storey timber buildings, which correspond to the boundary conditions in a certain environment, to determine the suitability of such a construction in view of its adjustment to local contexts. Apart from exposing the problems and advantages of such construction, the current paper provides a brief overview of high-rise timber buildings in Europe. Moreover, it addresses the complexity of the design approach to multi-storey timber buildings in general. The second part of the paper highlights the importance of synthesising the architectural, energy, and structural solutions through a detailed analysis of three selected case studies. The findings of the paper provide an expanded view of knowledge of the design of tall timber buildings, which can significantly contribute to a greater and better exploitation of the potential of timber construction in Europe and elsewhere.
Development of a Robot-Based Multi-Directional Dynamic Fiber Winding Process for Additive Manufacturing Using Shotcrete 3D Printing
Authors: Hack Norman , Bahar Mohammad , Hühne Christian , Lopez William , Gantner Stefan , Khader Noor , Rothe Tom
Published: June 2021

The research described in this paper is dedicated to the use of continuous fibers as reinforcement for additive manufacturing, particularly using Shotcrete. Composites and in particular fiber reinforced polymers (FRP) are increasingly present in concrete reinforcement. Their corrosion resistance, high tensile strength, low weight, and high flexibility offer an interesting alternative to conventional steel reinforcement, especially with respect to their use in Concrete 3D Printing. This paper presents an initial development of a dynamic robot-based manufacturing process for FRP concrete reinforcement as an innovative way to increase shape freedom and efficiency in concrete construction. The focus here is on prefabricated fiber reinforcement, which is concreted in a subsequent additive process to produce load-bearing components. After the presentation of the fabrication concept for the integration of FRP reinforcement and the state of the art, a requirements analysis regarding the mechanical bonding behavior in concrete is carried out. This is followed by a description of the development of a dynamic fiber winding process and its integration into an automated production system for individualized fiber reinforcement. Next, initial tests for the automated application of concrete by means of Shotcrete 3D Printing are carried out. In addition, an outlook describes further technical development steps and provides an outline of advanced manufacturing concepts for additive concrete manufacturing with integrated fiber reinforcement.
Dynamics of Two Anadromous Species in a Dam Intersected River: Analysis of Two 100-Year Datasets
Authors: Azeiteiro Ulisses M. , Pereira Mário J. , Soares Amadeu M. V. M. , Braga Heitor O. , Morgado Fernando , Sousa Magda C. , Dias João M. , Antunes Carlos
Published: June 2021

Long-term time-series datasets are key for assessing the population dynamics of fish species with economic interest. This study examines two 100-year datasets for sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus and allis shad Alosa alosa from the Minho River. This basin on the Iberian Peninsula is home to one of the largest populations at the southern distribution limit of these critically endangered anadromous fish species. Besides assessing the importance of the environmental drivers of fish capture data (temperature, salinity, upwelling, precipitation, and climatic oscillation), this study also assesses how dam construction affected these populations using intervention analysis—A statistical tool to detect significant breakpoints in time series data. Results showed contrasting trends between sea lamprey and allis shad, with the number of captured fish from the first progressively improving from 1914 to 2017, and the latter recording a significant decline over time. Although no significant correlations were detected between fishing data and environmental variables, some of the identified breakpoints in the time series data matched the dates when the major dams in Minho River were built. Other historical activities associated with mining might explain the notable changes detected in the trends, while issues associated with illegal, unreported, and unregulated capture data are also discussed.
On the Choice of Interface Parameters in Robin–Robin Loosely Coupled Schemes for Fluid–Structure Interaction
Authors: Gigante Giacomo , Vergara Christian
Published: June 2021

We consider two loosely coupled schemes for the solution of the fluid–structure interaction problem in the presence of large added mass effect. In particular, we introduce the Robin–Robin and Robin–Neumann explicit schemes where suitable interface conditions of Robin type are used. For the estimate of interface Robin parameters which guarantee stability of the numerical solution, we propose a new strategy based on the optimization of the reduction factor of the corresponding strongly coupled (implicit) scheme, by means of the optimized Schwarz method. To check the suitability of our proposals, we show numerical results both in an ideal cylindrical domain and in a real human carotid. Our results showed the effectiveness of our proposal for the calibration of interface parameters, which leads to stable results and shows how the explicit solution tends to the implicit one for decreasing values of the time discretization parameter.
Classical and Multisymplectic Schemes for Linearized KdV Equation: Numerical Results and Dispersion Analysis
Authors: Aderogba Adebayo Abiodun , Appadu Appanah Rao
Published: June 2021

We construct three finite difference methods to solve a linearized Korteweg–de-Vries (KdV) equation with advective and dispersive terms and specified initial and boundary conditions. Two numerical experiments are considered; case 1 is when the coefficient of advection is greater than the coefficient of dispersion, while case 2 is when the coefficient of dispersion is greater than the coefficient of advection. The three finite difference methods constructed include classical, multisymplectic and a modified explicit scheme. We obtain the stability region and study the consistency and dispersion properties of the various finite difference methods for the two cases. This is one of the rare papers that analyse dispersive properties of methods for dispersive partial differential equations. The performance of the schemes are gauged over short and long propagation times. Absolute and relative errors are computed at a given time at the spatial nodes used.
Effects of Inclusion of Schizochytrium spp. and Forage-to-Concentrate Ratios on Goats’ Milk Quality and Oxidative Status
Authors: Mavrommatis Alexandros , Sotirakoglou Kyriaki , Kamilaris Charalampos , Tsiplakou Eleni
Published: June 2021

Although the dietary inclusion level of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and the forage: concentrate (F:C) ratio affect milk quality, their interaction has not been broadly studied. To address such gaps and limitations a two-phase trial using twenty-two dairy goats was carried out. During the first phase, both groups (20 HF n = 11; high forage and 20 HG n = 11; high grain) were supplemented with 20 g Schizochytrium spp./goat/day. The 20 HF group consumed a diet with F:C ratio 60:40 and the 20 HG-diet consisted of F:C = 40:60. In the second phase, the supplementation level of Schizochytrium spp. was increased to 40 g/day/goat while the F:C ratio between the two groups were remained identical (40 HF n = 11; high forage and 40 HG n = 11; high grain). Neither the Schizochytrium spp. supplementation levels (20 vs. 40) nor the F:C ratio (60:40 vs. 40:60) affected milk performance. The high microalgae level (40 g) in combination with high grain diet (40 HG) modified the proportions of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and the ω3/ω6 ratio in milk, to a beneficial manner according to human health recommendation guidelines. However, the highest inclusion level of Schizochytrium spp. (40 g) and foremost in combination with the high grain diets (40 HG) induced an oxidative response as observed by the increased protein carbonyls (CP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in milk and blood plasma indicating severe limitations for a long-term, on-farm application. In conclusion, the supplementation with 20 g Schizochytrium spp. and high forage diet (60:40) appears to be an ideal formula to enrich dairy products with essential biomolecules for human health without adversely affect milk oxidative stability.
Some New Harmonically Convex Function Type Generalized Fractional Integral Inequalities
Authors: Ali Rana Safdar , Mukheimer Aiman , Abdeljawad Thabet , Mubeen Shahid , Ali Sabila , Rahman Gauhar , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy
Published: June 2021

In this article, we established a new version of generalized fractional Hadamard and Fejér–Hadamard type integral inequalities. A fractional integral operator (FIO) with a non-singular function (multi-index Bessel function) as its kernel and monotone increasing functions is utilized to obtain the new version of such fractional inequalities. Our derived results are a generalized form of several proven inequalities already existing in the literature. The proven inequalities are useful for studying the stability and control of corresponding fractional dynamic equations.
Rice (Oryza sativa) TIR1 and 5′adamantyl-IAA Significantly Improve the Auxin-Inducible Degron System in Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Watson Adam T. , Hassell-Hart Storm , Spencer John , Carr Antony M.
Published: June 2021

The auxin-inducible degron (AID) system is a powerful tool to induce targeted degradation of proteins in eukaryotic model organisms. The efficiency of the existing Schizosaccharomyces pombe AID system is limited due to the fusion of the F-box protein TIR1 protein to the SCF component, Skp1 (Skp1-TIR1). Here, we report an improved AID system for S. pombe that uses the TIR1 from Oryza sativa (OsTIR1) not fused to Skp1. Furthermore, we demonstrate that degradation efficiency can be improved by pairing an OsTIR1 auxin-binding site mutant, OsTIR1F74A, with an auxin analogue, 5′adamantyl-IAA (AID2). We provide evidence for the enhanced functionality of the OsTIR1 AID and AID2 systems by application to the essential DNA replication factor Mcm4 and to a non-essential recombination protein, Rad52. Unlike AID, no detectable auxin-independent depletion of AID-tagged proteins was observed using AID2.
Epigenetic Changes Induced by Maternal Factors during Fetal Life: Implication for Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Barchetta Ilaria , Arvastsson Jeanette , Sarmiento Luis , Cilio Corrado M.
Published: June 2021

Organ-specific autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, are believed to result from T-cell-mediated damage of the target tissue. The immune-mediated tissue injury, in turn, is known to depend on complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Nevertheless, the mechanisms whereby environmental factors contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases remain elusive and represent a major untapped target to develop novel strategies for disease prevention. Given the impact of the early environment on the developing immune system, epigenetic changes induced by maternal factors during fetal life have been linked to a likelihood of developing an autoimmune disease later in life. In humans, DNA methylation is the epigenetic mechanism most extensively investigated. This review provides an overview of the critical role of DNA methylation changes induced by prenatal maternal conditions contributing to the increased risk of immune-mediated diseases on the offspring, with a particular focus on T1D. A deeper understanding of epigenetic alterations induced by environmental stressors during fetal life may be pivotal for developing targeted prevention strategies of type 1 diabetes by modifying the maternal environment.
Transcriptional Pausing and Activation at Exons-1 and -2, Respectively, Mediate the MGMT Gene Expression in Human Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Al-Obaide Mohammed A. Ibrahim , Srivenugopal Kalkunte S.
Published: June 2021

Background: The therapeutically important DNA repair gene O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) is silenced by promoter methylation in human brain cancers. The co-players/regulators associated with this process and the subsequent progression of MGMT gene transcription beyond the non-coding exon 1 are unknown. As a follow-up to our recent finding of a predicted second promoter mapped proximal to the exon 2 [Int. J. Mol. Sci.2021, 22(5), 2492], we addressed its significance in MGMT transcription. Methods: RT-PCR, RT q-PCR, and nuclear run-on transcription assays were performed to compare and contrast the transcription rates of exon 1 and exon 2 of the MGMT gene in glioblastoma cells. Results: Bioinformatic characterization of the predicted MGMT exon 2 promoter showed several consensus TATA box and INR motifs and the absence of CpG islands in contrast to the established TATA-less, CpG-rich, and GAF-bindable exon 1 promoter. RT-PCR showed very weak MGMT-E1 expression in MGMT-proficient SF188 and T98G GBM cells, compared to active transcription of MGMT-E2. In the MGMT-deficient SNB-19 cells, the expression of both exons remained weak. The RT q-PCR revealed that MGMT-E2 and MGMT-E5 expression was about 80- to 175-fold higher than that of E1 in SF188 and T98G cells. Nuclear run-on transcription assays using bromo-uridine immunocapture followed by RT q-PCR confirmed the exceptionally lower and higher transcription rates for MGMT-E1 and MGMT-E2, respectively. Conclusions: The results provide the first evidence for transcriptional pausing at the promoter 1- and non-coding exon 1 junction of the human MGMT gene and its activation/elongation through the protein-coding exons 2 through 5, possibly mediated by a second promoter. The findings offer novel insight into the regulation of MGMT transcription in glioma and other cancer types.
Improving Community Resilience and Emergency Plans by Mapping Risk and Preparedness at the Neighborhood Scale
Authors: Finzi Yaron , Ganz Noam , Limon Yoash , Langer Sebastian
Published: June 2021

People living in areas of significant seismic risk seldom undertake sufficient preparations to safeguard their families. This is most problematic in remote communities such as those along the Dead Sea Fault, Israel, where self-reliance is a key factor in coping with disasters. To facilitate individual and familial involvement in earthquake preparedness in remote areas, we designed a tool for self-assessment of risk and preparedness. The personalized risk assessment is based on national hazard and building standards, and on personal input regarding structure characteristics. The risk and preparedness evaluations enhance awareness and provide immediate feedback to help users improve familial preparedness. The spatial analysis of the data collected is used to form high-resolution maps that expose specific challenges for emergency responses. A study conducted in the town of Mitzpe Ramon exposed neighborhoods with a relatively high risk of damage and low preparedness. Integrating these results with seasonal stress-factors such as peak tourism and extreme weather, provides new and important insights into the ability of the local community and emergency forces to cope with multihazard situations. An analysis of the heterogeneous distribution of expected hardship within a community should be implemented worldwide to improve risk mitigation.
Transfer Learning for LiDAR-Based Lane Marking Detection and Intensity Profile Generation
Authors: Patel Ankit , Cheng Yi-Ting , Ravi Radhika , Lin Yi-Chun , Bullock Darcy , Habib Ayman
Published: June 2021

Recently, light detection and ranging (LiDAR)-based mobile mapping systems (MMS) have been utilized for extracting lane markings using deep learning frameworks. However, huge datasets are required for training neural networks. Furthermore, with accurate lane markings being detected utilizing LiDAR data, an algorithm for automatically reporting their intensity information is beneficial for identifying worn-out or missing lane markings. In this paper, a transfer learning approach based on fine-tuning of a pretrained U-net model for lane marking extraction and a strategy for generating intensity profiles using the extracted results are presented. Starting from a pretrained model, a new model can be trained better and faster to make predictions on a target domain dataset with only a few training examples. An original U-net model trained on two-lane highways (source domain dataset) was fine-tuned to make accurate predictions on datasets with one-lane highway patterns (target domain dataset). Specifically, encoder- and decoder-trained U-net models are presented wherein, during retraining of the former, only weights in the encoder path of U-net were allowed to change with decoder weights frozen and vice versa for the latter. On the test data (target domain), the encoder-trained model (F1-score: 86.9%) outperformed the decoder-trained (F1-score: 82.1%). Additionally, on an independent dataset, the encoder-trained one (F1-score: 90.1%) performed better than the decoder-trained one (F1-score: 83.2%). Lastly, on the basis of lane marking results obtained from the encoder-trained U-net, intensity profiles were generated. Such profiles can be used to identify lane marking gaps and investigate their cause through RGB imagery visualization.
Flood Mapping from Dam Break Due to Peak Inflow: A Coupled Rainfall–Runoff and Hydraulic Models Approach
Authors: Tedla Mihretab G. , Cho Younghyun , Jun Kyungsoo
Published: June 2021

In this study, we conducted flood mapping of a hypothetical dam break by coupling the Hydrologic Engineering Center’s Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS) and River Analysis System (HEC-RAS) models under different return periods of flood inflow. This study is presented as a case study on the Kesem embankment dam in Ethiopia. Hourly hydrological and meteorological data and high-resolution land surface datasets were used to simulate the design floods for piping dam failure with empirical dam breach methods. Based on the extreme inflows and the dam physical characteristics, the dam failure was simulated by a two-dimensional, unsteady flow hydrodynamic model. As a result, the dam will remain safe for up to 50-year return-period inflows, but it breaks for 100- and 200-year return periods and floods the downstream area. For the 100-year peak inflow, a 208 km2 area will be inundated by a maximum depth of 20 m and for a maximum duration of 46 h. The 200-year inflow will inundate a 240 km2 area with a maximum depth of 31 m for a maximum duration of 93 h. The 2D flood map provides satisfactory spatial and temporal resolution of the inundated area for evaluation of the affected facilities.
Respiratory Telerehabilitation of Boys and Young Men with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sobierajska-Rek Agnieszka , Mański Łukasz , Jabłońska-Brudło Joanna , Śledzińska Karolina , Wasilewska Eliza , Szalewska Dominika
Published: June 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic forced reorganization of the multidisciplinary healthcare system for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Digital solutions seem to be optimal for providing rehabilitation at this time. The aim of this study was to investigate whether it is possible to conduct respiratory physical therapy with the use of telerehabilitation in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Methods: The study was conducted during an online conference for families with DMD. During the physical therapy panel we showed the video with the instructions of respiratory exercises. All participants (n = 152) were asked to fill in the online survey evaluating the quality, acceptance, and understanding of the instructions. Results: The survey was filled in by 45 (29.6%) participants. The mean rating of satisfaction was 4.70/5, and for intelligibility was 4.78/5. Thirty-seven (82.2%) patients declared that they had performed the exercises, all caregivers declared that it was possible to perform the proposed exercises a few times a week or daily, and only two respondents replied to invitations to individual online sessions. Conclusions: Findings from the study show that respiratory telerehabilitation may be implemented for DMD patients; however, the interest in digital rehabilitation among caregivers of DMD boys in Poland is low. The reasons for this situation require further research.
The Perceived Stigma Reduction Expressed by Young Adults in Response to Suicide Prevention Videos
Authors: Keller Sarah , McNeill Vanessa , Tran Tan
Published: June 2021

Evidence indicates that stigma impedes an individual’s chance of seeking professional help for a mental health crisis. Commonly reported aggregate-level results for stigma-reduction efforts obfuscate how much stigma reduction is needed to incur a practically meaningful change within an individual, defined here as an attitudinal shift and openness towards seeking mental health for oneself and/or support for others. When basing conclusions and recommendations about stigma-reducing interventions on aggregate scales, it is unclear how much stigma reduction is needed to incur meaningful change within an individual. We explored the impact of reductions in stigma of help-seeking scores in response to an online suicide prevention video among young adults in the United States, using online surveys to collect qualitative and quantitative data. We compared mean changes in the stigma scores from pre- to post-test (video exposure) of 371 young U.S. adults using standard t-tests and individual level analysis. A separate thematic analysis of free-text responses was also conducted from a smaller, randomly-selected subgroup, capturing individuals’ attitudes towards help-seeking for mental health problems. Great attention was given to participants to ensure that they were in a campus setting where counseling services were available. Four main themes emerged: (1) small changes in stigma scores were associated with individual reports of meaningful reductions in their attitudes towards professional counseling; (2) increased empathy towards victims of suicide and other mental health problems sometimes indicated increased empathy for victims of suicide and decreased openness in professional help; (3) empathy towards victims sometimes took the form of increased scores and grief or sadness, possibly thwarting the potential for help-seeking; and (4) self-reports of decreased stigma were not always associated with increased openness towards help-seeking. Results also indicated that small stigma score charges, not meeting statistical significance, were often associated with increased openness towards seeking help. These findings, discovered using mixed-methods, contribute to the body of literature regarding stigma towards suicide and help-seeking by demonstrating deficits in the aggregate-only analysis of stigma-reducing interventions specifically aimed at suicide prevention. Such individuation in stigma experiences indicates that public education on how to reduce the stigma of help-seeking for suicide prevention needs to consider individual-level analyses for improving target populations. Recommendations for future research include additional studies prior to releasing suicide prevention videos to public forums where they may be seen by individuals without access to help.
Knowledge and Attitudes of Parents towards Childhood Hearing Loss and Pediatric Hearing Services in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Ayas Muhammed , Yaseen Hakam
Published: June 2021

The successful implementation of pediatric audiology services depends on parental engagement and support. It is essential to analyze the gaps in knowledge level and attitude of the parents in United Arab Emirates (UAE), towards pediatric hearing loss and pediatric audiology services. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude of parents in Sharjah, UAE.A cross-sectional survey was administered to 295 parents in a tertiary care hospital setting. The self-reported questionnaire consisted of 26 items. 34.2% of the parents ascertaining good knowledge and 65.8% reported poor knowledge regarding the various factors related to the childhood hearing loss. Further, 86.2% of parents reported positive attitudes regarding accessing pediatric audiology services. A significant association was found between age groups, educational status, and knowledge levels. The study highlights the poor knowledge demonstrated by parents in the UAE regarding hearing loss and its associated risk factors. Findings outline the critical need in the region to enhance parental awareness. More health promotion activities and community outreach campaigns are necessary to increase the uptake of pediatric audiology services in the region.
Insomnia, Inattention and Fatigue Symptoms of Women with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Authors: Lin Pai-Cheng , Ko Chih-Hung , Lin Yen-Ju , Yen Ju-Yu
Published: June 2021

Aim: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) has predictable, cyclic, psychological, and somatic symptoms, such as sleep problems. They result in functional impairment, are aggravated in the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, and are resolved by menstruation. The present study evaluated the insomnia, inattention, and fatigue symptoms of PMDD and their fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. Methods: A total of 100 women were diagnosed as having PMDD based on psychiatric interviews and a prospective investigation of three menstrual cycles. A total of 96 individuals without PMDD were recruited as controls. Their symptoms, namely insomnia, inattention, and fatigue as well as functional impairment were assessed by using the premenstrual symptoms screening tool, the Pittsburgh insomnia rating scale, the attention and performance self-assessment scale, and the fatigue-assessment scale during both premenstrual and follicular phases. Results: In both the premenstrual and follicular phases, women with PMDD experienced more severe insomnia, inattentiveness, and fatigue than did women in the control group. A paired t-test demonstrated that women with PMDD had more severe severity insomnia, inattentiveness, and fatigue in the luteal phase than in the follicular phase. A repeated-measures analysis of variance demonstrated that the interaction period of PMDD and a menstrual cycle was significantly associated with insomnia, inattentiveness, and fatigue. A further correlation analysis demonstrated that all three symptoms were positively associated with self-reported functional impairment due to PMDD. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that women with PMDD experienced an exacerbation of insomnia, memory problems, difficulty maintaining focus, and fatigue in the premenstrual phase. These symptoms are correlated with PMDD symptoms severity and functional impairment, and as such, they should be evaluated, and interventions should be employed in the late luteal phase of women with PMDD.
Effect of Online Training during the COVID-19 Quarantine on the Aerobic Capacity of Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Kalinowski Paweł , Myszkowski Jakub , Marynowicz Jakub
Published: June 2021

Motor abilities, such as endurance and the optimal level of physical activity, play a fundamental role in football as they are necessary to maintain the high effectiveness of the training process. The aim of this study was the observation of the trend of changes in the level of cardiorespiratory endurance of young football players in a one-year cycle overlapping with the COVID-19 lockdown and an assessment of the impact of the training intervention during home confinement. The participants of the study were 24 young football players. We analysed the results of the study in a one-year training cycle (lockdown from 11 March 2020 to 6 May 2020). The cardiorespiratory endurance was measured using the Multistage 20 m Shuttle Run test—Beep Test. A repeated measures analysis of variance was used in the study. Detailed comparisons were made using Tukey’s HSD test. Statistically significant differences were noted in endurance in a one year cycle: F(5.115) = 22.65; p < 0.001; partial Eta-squared = 0.50. An increase in the level of endurance by mean = 179.17 m, SD ± 189.87 m was noted between T1 and T6. After the break caused by the COVID-19 restrictions, a decrease in the level of cardiorespiratory endurance was noted. Only after two training mesocycles was a significant increase in the mean value noted compared to the period before the pandemic (p < 0.05). With the negative impact of restrictions in mind, coaches and physiotherapists should exercise caution when planning training, taking into consideration the level of physical activity during the pandemic.
Barriers to the Digitization of Health Information: A Qualitative and Quantitative Study in Kenya and Lao PDR Using a Cloud-Based Maternal and Child Registration System
Authors: Numair Tarek , Harrell Daniel Toshio , Huy Nguyen Tien , Nishimoto Futoshi , Muthiani Yvonne , Nzou Samson Muuo , Lasaphonh Angkhana , Palama Khomsonerasinh , Pongvongsa Tiengkham , Moji Kazuhiko , Hirayama Kenji , Kaneko Satoshi
Published: June 2021

Digitalization of health information can assist patient information management and improve health services even in low middle-income countries. We have implemented a mother and child health registration system in the study areas of Kenya and Lao PDR to evaluate barriers to digitalization. We conducted in-depth interviews with 20 healthcare workers (HCWs) who used the system and analyzed it qualitatively with thematic framework analysis. Quantitatively, we analyzed the quality of recorded data according to missing information by the logistic regression analysis. The qualitative analysis identified six themes related to digitalization: satisfaction with the system, mothers’ resistance, need for training, double work, working environment, and other resources. The quantitative analysis showed that data entry errors improved around 10% to 80% based on odds ratios in subsequent quarters compared to first quarter periods. The number of registration numbers was not significantly related to the data quality, but the motivation, including financial incentives among HCWs, was related to the registration behavior. Considering both analysis results, workload and motivation to maintain high performance were significant obstacles to implementing a digital health system. We recommend enhancing the scope and focus on human needs and satisfaction as a significant factor for digital system durability and sustainability.
Effect of Copper Sulphate and Cadmium Chloride on Non-Human Primate Sperm Function In Vitro
Authors: Hardneck Farren , de Villiers Charon , Maree Liana
Published: June 2021

In order to address the large percentage of unexplained male infertility in humans, more detailed investigations using sperm functional tests are needed to identify possible causes for compromised fertility. Since many environmental and lifestyle factors might be contributing to infertility, future studies aiming to elucidate the effect of such factors on male fertility will need the use of appropriate research models. The current study aimed to assess the effects of two heavy metals, namely copper sulphate, and cadmium chloride, on non-human primate (NHP) sperm function in order to establish the possibility of using these primate species as models for reproductive studies. Our combined results indicated that the functionality of NHP spermatozoa is inhibited by the two heavy metals investigated. After in vitro exposure, detrimental effects, and significant lowered values (p < 0.05) were obtained for sperm motility, viability and vitality, acrosome intactness, and hyperactivation. These metals, at the tested higher concentrations, therefore, have the ability to impair sperm quality thereby affecting sperm fertilizing capability in both humans and NHPs.
Urinary Fluoride Levels among Canadians with and without Community Water Fluoridation
Authors: Riddell Julia K. , Malin Ashley J. , McCague Hugh , Flora David B. , Till Christine
Published: June 2021

Drinking water is a major source of dietary fluoride intake in communities with water fluoridation. We examined the association between urinary fluoride adjusted for specific gravity (UFSG) and tap water fluoride levels, by age and sex, among individuals living in Canada. Participants included 1629 individuals aged 3 to 79 years from Cycle 3 (2012–2013) of the Canadian Health Measures Survey. We used multiple linear regression to estimate unique associations of tap water fluoride levels, age, sex, ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), use of fluoride-containing dental products, smoking in the home, and tea consumption with UFSG. UFSG concentration was significantly higher among participants who received fluoridated drinking water (mean = 1.06 mg/L, standard deviation = 0.83) than among those who did not (M = 0.58 mg/L, SD = 0.47), p < 0.01. UFSG increased over adulthood (ages 19 to 79). Higher UFSG concentration was associated with being female, tea drinking, and smoking in the home. In conclusion, community water fluoridation is a major source of contemporary fluoride exposure for Canadians. Lifestyle factors including tea consumption, as well as demographic variables such as age and sex, also predict urinary fluoride level, and are therefore important factors when interpreting population-based fluoride biomonitoring data.
Floorball Injuries Presenting to a Swiss Adult Emergency Department: A Retrospective Study (2013–2019)
Authors: Radtke Stephanie , Trepp Gian-Luca , Müller Martin , Exadaktylos Aristomenis K. , Klukowska-Rötzler Jolanta
Published: June 2021

Background: The popularity of floorball has surged throughout Switzerland in the last 20 years. However, epidemiological studies are still scarce. Objective: To collect information on floorball-related injuries, their severity and approximate cost in adults who presented to our emergency department from 2013–2019. Moreover, to use this information to suggest possible strategies to prevent injuries. Materials and Methods: The study population includes all patients who suffered injuries related to floorball and were then seen at the University Hospital in Bern during a 7-year period. Bern University Hospital, Switzerland, has a comprehensive management system (Ecare) that was used to generate the data for this study. The data were then used to create an injury profile of all cases presented during the said period. Results: A total of 263 injures were recorded from 2013 to 2019. The most common locations for injuries were to the eyes (43.73%), followed by the lower extremities (25.48%). The mean cost per case was CHF 1191.43. However, the vast majority of admissions could be sent home (93.16%) and did not cost more than 500 CHF/case (57.41%). Of the 22 cases that cost more than CHF 2000, 10 were located around the torso and 6 affected one or both eyes. Significant differences were observed between the age groups and treatment area (p = 0.008), costs (p = 0.008), route of discharge (p = 0.023) and type of trauma (p = 0.020). Conclusion: Although floorball is still a relatively minor sport, its impact on sport-related injuries must not be underestimated. Injuries to the eyes are particularly common. In our opinion, our findings provide strong evidence that all floorball players (not only children and adolescents) should wear protective eyewear. We conclude that the Swiss Floorball Association (Swiss Unihockey) should mandate the use of protective eyewear.
The Acceptability, Feasibility, and Effectiveness of Wearable Activity Trackers for Increasing Physical Activity in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Creaser Amy V. , Clemes Stacy A. , Costa Silvia , Hall Jennifer , Ridgers Nicola D. , Barber Sally E. , Bingham Daniel D.
Published: June 2021

Wearable activity trackers (wearables) embed numerous behaviour change techniques (BCTs) that have previously been shown to increase adult physical activity (PA). With few children and adolescents achieving PA guidelines, it is crucial to explore ways to increase their PA. This systematic review examined the acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of wearables and their potential mechanisms of action for increasing PA in 5 to 19-year-olds. A systematic search of six databases was conducted, including data from the start date of each database to December 2019 (PROSPERO registration: CRD42020164506). Thirty-three studies were included. Most studies (70%) included only adolescents (10 to 19 years). There was some—but largely mixed—evidence that wearables increase steps and moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA and reduce sedentary behaviour. There were no apparent differences in effectiveness based on the number of BCTs used and between studies using a wearable alone or as part of a multi-component intervention. Qualitative findings suggested wearables increased motivation to be physically active via self-monitoring, goal setting, feedback, and competition. However, children and adolescents reported technical difficulties and a novelty effect when using wearables, which may impact wearables’ long-term use. More rigorous and long-term studies investigating the acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of wearables in 5 to 19-year-olds are warranted.
“How Come You Don’t Call Me?” Smartphone Communication App Usage as an Indicator of Loneliness and Social Well-Being across the Adult Lifespan during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wetzel Britta , Pryss Rüdiger , Baumeister Harald , Edler Johanna-Sophie , Gonçalves Ana Sofia Oliveira , Cohrdes Caroline
Published: June 2021

Loneliness and lack of social well-being are associated with adverse health outcomes and have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Smartphone communication data have been suggested to help monitor loneliness, but this requires further evidence. We investigated the informative value of smartphone communication app data for predicting subjective loneliness and social well-being in a sample of 364 participants ranging from 18 to 78 years of age (52.2% female; mean age = 42.54, SD = 13.22) derived from the CORONA HEALTH APP study from July to December 2020 in Germany. The participants experienced relatively high levels of loneliness and low social well-being during the time period characterized by the COVID-19 pandemic. Apart from positive associations with phone call use times, smartphone communication app use was associated with social well-being and loneliness only when considering the age of participants. Younger participants with higher use times tended to report less social well-being and higher loneliness, while the opposite association was found for older adults. Thus, the informative value of smartphone communication use time was rather small and became evident only in consideration of age. The results highlight the need for further investigations and the need to address several limitations in order to draw conclusions at the population level.
Impact of a Season of Bike Patrol on Police Officers’ Level of Fitness: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lehouillier Frédérique , Dugas Marc-Olivier , Lavallière Martin
Published: June 2021

Bike patrollers must have a good level of fitness to perform their patrolling duties adequately and effectively by bike and accomplish specific work tasks, which may require the use of various physical capacities. However, there is little information on the real workload associated with bike patrol and its impact on health. The purpose of this study was to assess the general physical fitness of police officers before and after a season of bike patrolling and then quantify its effects on each patroller’s health. All six male police officers (29.5 ± 4.3 years old) performed two complete physical fitness evaluations (PRE- and POST-season), which included anthropometric measurements (weight, waist circumference, and body mass index), a push-up test, a sit-up test, a grip strength test, a vertical jump test, a sit-and-reach test, and an aerobic capacity test on a bicycle ergometer. Paired t-tests were used to evaluate the differences in test performance between the PRE- and POST-season. Grip strength, estimated VO2max, and power deployed on the bike all showed significant improvement after the season (p-value 0.0133; 0.007; and 0.003, respectively). No significant differences were found among the evaluation’s other components (p > 0.05). Results show the workload associated with a bike patrol season caused a considerable improvement in grip strength, VO2max, and power deployed on the bike, and might be beneficial for their overall health as a work-integrated avenue to keep the officers fit for duty. Further research on the subject is suggested.
Healthcare for Older Adults, Where Are We Moving towards?
Authors: Tarazona-Santabalbina Francisco José , Santaeugènia Gonzàlez Sebastià Josep , García Navarro José Augusto , Viña Jose
Published: June 2021

Since the end of World War II, science has not stopped progressing [...]
Pregnant Women Who Smoke May Be at Greater Risk of Adverse Effects from Bushfires
Authors: Kumar Ratika , Eftekhari Parivash , Gould Gillian Sandra
Published: June 2021

Bushfires substantially increase the environmental health risks for people living in affected areas, especially the disadvantaged (e.g., those experiencing health inequities due to their socio-economic status, racial/ethnic backgrounds, geographic location and/or sexual orientation) and those with pre-existing health conditions. Pregnant women exposed to bushfire smoke are at a greater risk of adverse pregnancy and foetal outcomes, especially if they smoke tobacco, which may compound the toxic impacts. Bushfires may also exacerbate mental stress, leading to an increase in smoking. There are gaps in the evidence and more research is required on the combined effect of bushfire smoke and tobacco smoke on pregnant populations.
Effect of Inducible BMP-7 Expression on the Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Tóth Ferenc , Tőzsér József , Hegedűs Csaba
Published: June 2021

BMP-7 has shown inductive potential for in vitro osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, which are an ideal resource for regenerative medicine. Externally applied, recombinant BMP-7 was able to induce the osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs but based on our previous results with BMP-2, we aimed to study the effect of the tetracyclin-inducible BMP-7 expression on these cells. DPSC, mock, and DPSC-BMP-7 cell lines were cultured in the presence or absence of doxycycline, then alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, mineralization, and mRNA levels of different osteogenic marker genes were measured. In the DPSC-BMP-7 cell line, the level of BMP-7 mRNA significantly increased in the media supplemented with doxycycline, however, the expression of Runx2 and noggin genes was upregulated only after 21 days of incubation in the osteogenic medium with doxycycline. Moreover, while the examination of ALP activity showed reduced activity in the control medium containing doxycycline, the accumulation of minerals remained unchanged in the cultures. We have found that the induced BMP-7 expression failed to induce osteogenic differentiation of DPSCs. We propose three different mechanisms that may worth investigating for the engineering of expression systems that can be used for the induction of differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells.
Absolute Proteome Analysis of Hippocampus, Cortex and Cerebellum in Aged and Young Mice Reveals Changes in Energy Metabolism
Authors: Gostomska-Pampuch Kinga , Drulis-Fajdasz Dominika , Gizak Agnieszka , Wiśniewski Jacek R. , Rakus Dariusz
Published: June 2021

Aging is associated with a general decline of cognitive functions, and it is widely accepted that this decline results from changes in the expression of proteins involved in regulation of synaptic plasticity. However, several lines of evidence have accumulated that suggest that the impaired function of the aged brain may be related to significant alterations in the energy metabolism. In the current study, we employed the label-free “Total protein approach” (TPA) method to focus on the similarities and differences in energy metabolism proteomes of young (1-month-old) and aged (22-month-old) murine brains. We quantified over 7000 proteins in each of the following three analyzed brain structures: the hippocampus, the cerebral cortex and the cerebellum. To the best of our knowledge, this is the most extensive quantitative proteomic description of energy metabolism pathways during the physiological aging of mice. The analysis demonstrates that aging does not significantly affect the abundance of total proteins in the studied brain structures, however, the levels of proteins constituting energy metabolism pathways differ significantly between young and aged mice.
Ocular Graft-versus-Host Disease in a Chemotherapy-Based Minor-Mismatch Mouse Model Features Corneal (Lymph-) Angiogenesis
Authors: Gehlsen Uta , Stary Daniela , Maass Martina , Riesner Katarina , Musial Gwen , Stern Michael E. , Penack Olaf , Steven Philipp
Published: June 2021

Ocular graft-versus-host disease (oGVHD) is a fast progressing, autoimmunological disease following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, leading to severe inflammation of the eye and destruction of the lacrimal functional unit with consecutive sight-threatening consequences. The therapeutic “window of opportunity” is narrow, and current treatment options are limited and often insufficient. To achieve new insights into the pathogenesis and to develop new therapeutic approaches, clinically relevant models of oGVHD are desirable. In this study, the ocular phenotype was described in a murine, chemotherapy-based, minor-mismatch GVHD model mimicking early-onset chronic oGVHD, with corneal epitheliopathy, inflammation of the lacrimal glands, and blepharitis. Additionally, corneal lymphangiogenesis was observed as part of oGVHD pathogenesis for the first time, thus opening up the investigation of lymphangiogenesis as a potential therapeutic and diagnostic tool.