bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Impact of Public Information and Training Campaigns to Improve Energy Efficiency: Findings from the Italian Industry
Authors: Preziosi Michele , Federici Alessandro , Merli Roberto
Published: March 2022

Energy efficiency is a pillar for the energy system transition and for reaching the Sustainable Development Goals. In the light of the “energy efficiency first!” principle, European member states enforce policies to spread energy saving throughout the whole energy chain involving both citizens and industries. In this context, information and training campaigns arise as valuable support tools to disseminate energy efficiency and, therefore, for reducing energy consumption. Although various studies have evaluated the impact of information campaigns targeted to citizens, there is a lack of investigations that assess the impact of campaigns dedicated to industry sectors. This study discusses the results of a survey targeted at energy-intensive Italian companies, with a sample of 300 responses. Starting from the analysis of drivers that trigger the implementation of energy efficiency measures, the paper proposes an approach to evaluate the amount of energy savings linked to the Italian information and training program targeted to industries carried out by the Italian Energy Efficiency Agency. Results show that although information campaigns are not a crucial driver for companies, they are recognized as a factor that contributes to the implementation of energy efficiency practices. Findings show that roughly 1.4% of energy savings noted by interviewed companies to the Italian Energy Efficiency Agency are a direct effect of the information and training program. This outcome has significant implications, especially for decision-makers, giving evidence of the efficacy of information campaigns on industries, which have great potential for the transition to low carbon production systems.
Optimization Models under Uncertainty in Distributed Generation Systems: A Review
Authors: Alonso-Travesset Àlex , Martín Helena , Coronas Sergio , de la Hoz Jordi
Published: March 2022

Distributed generation systems (DGSs) are one of the key developments enabling the energy transition. DGSs provide users with increased control over their energy use and generation, but entail greater complexity in their design and operation. Traditionally, optimization models have been used to overcome this complexity, and currently, research is focusing on integrating uncertainties on them. This review attempts to analyze, classify and discuss 170 articles dealing with optimization of DGSs under uncertainty. A survey has been performed to identify the selected manuscripts and the strengths and weaknesses of previous reviews. As a result, an innovative classification has been designed and the distinct elements of optimization models in DGSs have been highlighted: microgrid architecture, sources of uncertainty, uncertainty addressing methods, problem types and formulations, objective functions, optimization algorithms and additional features. Each part is detailed thoroughly to provide an instructive overview of the research output in the area. Subsequently, several aspects of interest are discussed in depth: the future of dealing with uncertainty, the main contributions and trends, and the relative importance of the field. It is expected that this review will be of use to both experts and lay people to learn more about the current state of optimization models in DGSs and provide insights into how to further develop this field.
Motion Characteristics of High-Speed Supercavitating Projectiles Including Structural Deformation
Authors: Huang Chuang , Liu Zhao , Liu Zixian , Hao Changle , Li Daijin , Luo Kai
Published: March 2022

High-speed supercavitating projectiles receive tremendous hydrodynamic force when flying underwater in tail-slap mode, and have obvious structural deformation and structural vibration. To study the motion characteristics of high-speed supercavitating projectiles, a bidirectional fluid-structure interaction model was established, and validated by comparing with the existing results. The motion, supercavitation flow field, and structural deformation response process of a supercavitating projectile were numerically investigated under the conditions of initial speed within 800–1600 m/s. It was found that the tail-slap motion of high-speed supercavitating projectiles is correlated with a high-frequency structural vibration. Further, the amplitude of the structural vibration increases with the initial speed. When flying with an initial speed higher than 1200 m/s, supercavitating projectiles encounter a great structural deformation under the action of the huge hydrodynamic load, which exerts a significant influence on the motion characteristic, and even destroys the trajectory stability. Thus, the supercavitating projectile cannot be regarded as a rigid body any more, and the structural response effect must be considered.
Prediction of Wall and Indoor Hygrothermal Properties of Rammed Earth Folk House in Northwest Sichuan
Authors: Gao Qinglong , Wu Tao , Liu Lei , Yao Yong , Jiang Bin
Published: March 2022

The climate crisis is one of the most important problems today. In the process of human building, the use of cement, steel, and other industrial materials in the process of building construction and recycling has brought a huge burden to the natural environment. Earth is one of the oldest building materials, its availability and insulation make it an excellent constructive solution in human history. Among several existing earth construction techniques, rammed earth is one of the most relevant. In this paper, a numerical model of the rammed earth folk house in Mianyang was established, and an experimental device was built to verify it. With the typical meteorological year data of Mianyang in northwest Sichuan, the heat and moisture transfer in rammed earth wall, as well as the indoor thermal and moisture environment were numerically simulated. The results show that the rammed earth wall weakens the temperature fluctuation of the inner surface of the wall and makes the peak temperature of the inner surface of the wall lag the outer surface. The relative humidity in the center of the rammed earth wall can be maintained at about 60%, both in winter and summer. The moisture absorption and desorption capacity of rammed earth walls without inner decorative materials is about three times that of gypsum board, and the use of a waterproof coating will render the rammed earth wall almost unable to adjust the indoor relative humidity. Additionally, the use of decorative materials will increase the fluctuation range of indoor relative humidity and the risk of mold breeding.
Water Invasion Law and Water Invasion Risk Identification Method for Deep Sea Bottom-Water Gas Reservoir
Authors: Zhi Jiqiang , Bo Lifeng , Qu Guohui , Jiang Nan , Zhang Rongzhou
Published: March 2022

This study analyzes the water invasion characteristics and water encroachment of the deep sea bottom-water gas reservoir (LS17 field) in the South China Sea for the purpose of developing horizontal wells. Gas-producing profile tests and a three-dimensional (3D) water invasion simulation are used to produce a quantitative analysis of the bottom-water cresting influence factors. On this basis, we establish a suitable risk identification method for the water influx of a deep bottom-water reservoir. The results show that: (1) During the development of a bottom-water gas reservoir, the water ridging is affected by reservoir heterogeneity, production system and heel–toe effect of a horizontal wellbore, and reservoir heterogeneity is the main influencing factor; (2) the horizontal–vertical ratio of the well area determines whether the gas well productivity will be affected by the risk of water invasion. The stronger the reservoir heterogeneity, the smaller the safety limit value of the horizontal–vertical ratio; (3) when the permeability differential increases gradually, the safety limit value of the transverse longitudinal ratio decreases in turn; (4) based on the relationship curve between permeability level difference and the safety limit value of the horizontal–vertical ratio in the well area, the horizontal–vertical ratio of the N1H well is far greater than the safety limit value. The well is at high risk of water invasion and should be developed by water control. In order to improve deep seabed water and gas reservoirs, water control development should be carried out in well areas with sufficient water energy and high water invasion risk. The water invasion characteristics of bottom-water gas reservoirs under different water control technologies (such as variable density screen technology, filling water blocking, breathable coated gravel technology, etc.) and production systems (periodic gas production technology) should be studied. The research results can not only judge the water invasion risk of deep seabed water and gas reservoirs under different permeability levels and gas production rates but also provide a reference for water control development of offshore and onshore bottom-water and gas reservoirs.
Pyrolysis of Biomass Wastes into Carbon Materials
Authors: Sieradzka Małgorzata , Kirczuk Cezary , Kalemba-Rec Izabela , Mlonka-Mędrala Agata , Magdziarz Aneta
Published: March 2022

This study presents the results of the biomass pyrolysis process focusing on biochar production and its potential energetic (as solid fuel) and material (as adsorbent) applications. Three kinds of biomass waste were investigated: wheat straw, spent coffee grounds, and brewery grains. The pyrolysis process was carried out under nitrogen atmosphere at 400 and 500 °C (residence time of 20 min). A significant increase in the carbon content was observed in the biochars, e.g., from 45% to 73% (at 400 °C) and 77% (at 500 °C) for spent coffee grounds. In addition, the structure and morphology were investigated using scanning electron microscopy. Thermal properties were studied using a simultaneous thermal analysis under an oxidising atmosphere. The chemical activation was completed using KOH. The sorption properties of the obtained biochars were tested using chromium ion (Cr3+) adsorption from liquid solution. The specific surface area and average pore diameter of each sample were determined using the BET method. Finally, it was found that selected biochars can be applied as adsorbent or a fuel. In detail, brewery grains-activated carbon had the highest surface area, wheat straw-activated carbon adsorbed the highest amount of Cr3+, and wheat straw chars presented the best combustion properties.
The Circulating Current Reduction Control Method for Asynchronous Carrier Phases of Parallel Connected Inverters
Authors: Lee Seung-Yong , Jung Jae-Jung
Published: March 2022

Parallel operation of inverters is one of the most effective and representative ways to increase system capacity. However, zero-sequence circulating currents occur due to the practical deviations of components constituting individual inverters in case of parallel connected inverters in which a common direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC) bus is shared. In particular, circulating currents of the high-frequency component as well as those of the low-frequency component are generated due to the asynchronization of the carriers of individual inverters. In order to suppress the circulating currents as such, the phases of the carriers should be shifted as much as the phase errors between the carriers to compensate for the phase errors. A difficulty in this phase compensation control is that when there are several pulse-width modulation (PWM) carriers, it is impossible to identify the phase of each carrier. In this paper, to overcome the problem, a method to specify the position of one of the many carriers and control the carriers and compensate for phase errors based on the relevant phase was proposed. In addition, this paper includes the analysis of circulating currents generated in the case of carrier phase errors and proposes a method to identify carrier phase errors and compensate for the relevant errors. The proposed method was verified through simulations and experiments.
The Trade-Offs and Synergies of Ecosystem Services in Jiulianshan National Nature Reserve in Jiangxi Province, China
Authors: Feng Jiayuan , Chen Fusheng , Tang Fangran , Wang Fangchao , Liang Kuan , He Lingyun , Huang Chao
Published: March 2022

Ecosystem services are directly related to human well-being. Previous studies showed that management policies and human activities alter the trade-offs and synergies of ecosystem services. Taking effective measures to manage the trade-offs and synergies of ecosystem services is essential to sustain ecological security and achieve a “win-win” situation between society and ecosystems. This study investigated the spatiotemporal changes of water yield, soil conservation, and carbon sequestration in the Jiulianshan National Nature Reserve from 2000 to 2020 based on the InVEST model. We distinguished spatial patterns of trade-offs and synergies between ecosystem services using the correlation relationship analysis. Then we analyzed the response of ecosystem services relationships among different vegetation types and elevation bands. The results showed that water yield and carbon sequestration presented an overall upward trend, while soil conservation remained a marginal degradation. Rising ecosystem services were mainly in the central, western, and southeastern regions, and declining areas were mainly distributed in the midwestern and northeastern fringes. Synergies spatially dominated the interactions among water yield, soil conservation, and carbon sequestration, and the trade-offs were primarily concentrated in the northern, southern, and southwestern fringes. Among the different vegetation types, synergies dominated ecosystem services in broad-leaved forests, coniferous forests, mixed forests, and Moso bamboo forests and in grass. The trade-offs were gradually reduced with elevation. This study highlighted that trade-off of ecosystem services should be incorporated into ecological management policies, strengthening the effectiveness of nature reserves in protecting and improving China’s ecosystem services.
Effect of Dietary Plant Feedstuffs and Protein/Carbohydrate Ratio on Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata) Gut Health and Functionality
Authors: Basto-Silva Catarina , García-Meilán Irene , Couto Ana , Serra Cláudia R. , Enes Paula , Oliva-Teles Aires , Capilla Encarnación , Guerreiro Inês
Published: March 2022

This study investigated, for the first time, the integrated effects of dietary protein source and protein/carbohydrate (P/CH) ratio on gilthead seabream gut histomorphology, microbiota composition, digestive enzymes activity, and immunological and oxidative stress-related gene expressions. Four isolipidic diets: two fishmeal-based (FM) and two plant feedstuff (PF)-based diets, with P/CH ratios of 50/10 or 40/20 each (FM-P50/CH10; FM-P40/CH20; PF-P50/CH10; PF-P40/CH20), were tested. PF-based diets lead to more histomorphological alterations than FM-based diets. P/CH ratio had no relevant effect on gut histomorphology. Gut mucosa of fish fed PF-based diets presented a higher number of operational taxonomic units, and richness and diversity indices, while the P/CH ratio did not affect those parameters. The α-amylase activity was lower in fish fed with PF-based diets and in fish fed the P40/CH20 diets. Regarding the immune-related genes, only cyclooxygenase-2 was affected, being higher in fish fed the P50/CH10 diets than the P40/CH20 diets. Fish fed the FM-based diets presented higher expression of glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase, while fish fed the P50/CH10 diet had higher expression of superoxide dismutase. In conclusion, PF-based diets can compromise gut absorptive and digestive metabolism, but decreasing the dietary P/CH ratio had little effect on the parameters measured.
Fluid Flow and Structural Numerical Analysis of a Cerebral Aneurysm Model
Authors: Souza Maria Sabrina , Souza Andrews , Carvalho Violeta , Teixeira Senhorinha , Fernandes Carla S. , Lima Rui , Ribeiro João
Published: March 2022

Intracranial aneurysms (IA) are dilations of the cerebral arteries and, in most cases, have no symptoms. However, it is a very serious pathology, with a high mortality rate after rupture. Several studies have been focused only on the hemodynamics of the flow within the IA. However, besides the effect of the flow, the development and rupture of the IA are also associated with a combination of other factors such as the wall mechanical behavior. Thus, the objective of this work was to analyze, in addition to the flow behavior, the biomechanical behavior of the aneurysm wall. For this, CFD simulations were performed for different Reynolds numbers (1, 100, 500 and 1000) and for two different rheological models (Newtonian and Carreau). Subsequently, the pressure values of the fluid simulations were exported to the structural simulations in order to qualitatively observe the deformations, strains, normal stresses and shear stress generated in the channel wall. For the structural simulations, a hyperelastic constitutive model (5-parameter Mooney–Rivlin) was used. The results show that with the increase in the Reynolds number (Re), the recirculation phenomenon is more pronounced, which is not seen for Re = 1. The higher the Re, the higher the strain, displacement, normal and shear stresses values.
Mineral Content and Volatile Profiling of Prunus avium L. (Sweet Cherry) By-Products from Fundão Region (Portugal)
Authors: Nunes Ana R. , Gonçalves Ana C. , Pinto Edgar , Amaro Filipa , Flores-Félix José D. , Almeida Agostinho , Guedes de Pinho Paula , Falcão Amílcar , Alves Gilberto , Silva Luís R.
Published: March 2022

Large amounts of Prunus avium L. by-products result from sweet cherry production and processing. This work aimed to evaluate the mineral content and volatile profiling of the cherry stems, leaves, and flowers of the Saco cultivar collected from the Fundão region (Portugal). A total of 18 minerals were determined by ICP-MS, namely 8 essential and 10 non-essential elements. Phosphorus (P) was the most abundant mineral, while lithium (Li) was detected in trace amounts. Three different preparations were used in this work to determine volatiles: hydroethanolic extracts, crude extracts, and aqueous infusions. A total of 117 volatile compounds were identified using HS-SPME/GC-MS, distributed among different chemical classes: 31 aldehydes, 14 alcohols, 16 ketones, 30 esters, 4 acids, 4 monoterpenes, 3 norisoprenoids, 4 hydrocarbons, 7 heterocyclics, 1 lactone, 1 phenol, and 2 phenylpropenes. Benzaldehyde, 4-methyl-benzaldehyde, hexanal, lilac aldehyde, and 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one were the major volatile compounds. Differences in the types of volatiles and their respective amounts in the different extracts were found. This is the first study that describes the mineral and volatile composition of Portuguese sweet cherry by-products, demonstrating that they could have great potential as nutraceutical ingredients and natural flavoring agents to be used in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries.
Kombucha Reduces Hyperglycemia in Type 2 Diabetes of Mice by Regulating Gut Microbiota and Its Metabolites
Authors: Xu Suyun , Wang Yanping , Wang Jinju , Geng Weitao
Published: March 2022

Kombucha, which is rich in tea polyphenols and organic acid, is a kind of acidic tea soup beverage fermented by acetic acid bacteria, yeasts, lactic acid bacteria. Kombucha has been reported to possess anti-diabetic activity, but the underlying mechanism was not well understood. In this study, a high-fat, high-sugar diet combined with streptozotocin (STZ) injection was used to induce T2DM model in mice. After four weeks of kombucha intervention, the physiological and biochemical index were measured to determine the diabetes-related indicators. High-throughput sequencing technology was used to analyze the changes in gut microbiota from the feces. The results showed that four weeks of kombucha intervention increased the abundance of SCFAs-producing bacteria and reduced the abundance of gram-negative bacteria and pathogenic bacteria. The improvement in gut microbiota reduced the damage of intestinal barrier, thereby reducing the displacement of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and inhibiting the occurrence of inflammation and insulin resistance in vivo. In addition, the increased levels of SCFAs-producing bacteria, and thus increasing the SCFAs, improved islet β cell function by promoting the secretion of gastrointestinal hormones (GLP-1/PYY). This study methodically uncovered the hypoglycemic mechanism of kombucha through gut microbiota intervention, and the result suggested that kombucha may be introduced as a new functional drink for T2DM prevention and treatment.
Biocontrol Approaches against Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Foods
Authors: Puligundla Pradeep , Lim Seokwon
Published: March 2022

Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a well-known water- and food-borne zoonotic pathogen that can cause gastroenteritis in humans. It threatens the health of millions of people each year; several outbreaks of E. coli O157:H7 infections have been linked to the consumption of contaminated plant foods (e.g., lettuce, spinach, tomato, and fresh fruits) and beef-based products. To control E. coli O157:H7 in foods, several physical (e.g., irradiation, pasteurization, pulsed electric field, and high-pressure processing) and chemical (e.g., using peroxyacetic acid; chlorine dioxide; sodium hypochlorite; and organic acids, such as acetic, lactic, and citric) methods have been widely used. Although the methods are quite effective, they are not applicable to all foods and carry intrinsic disadvantages (alteration of sensory properties, toxicity, etc.). Therefore, the development of safe and effective alternative methods has gained increased attention recently. Biocontrol agents, including bacteriophages, probiotics, antagonistic bacteria, plant-derived natural compounds, bacteriocins, endolysins, and enzymes, are rapidly emerging as effective, selective, relatively safe for human consumption, and environmentally friendly alternatives. This paper summarizes advances in the application of biocontrol agents for E. coli O157:H7 control in foods.
Editorial for Special Issue “Fractal and Fractional in Cement-Based Materials”
Authors: Wang Lei , Tang Shengwen , Pia Giorgio , Chen E
Published: March 2022

Cement-based materials, including cement paste, mortar, and concrete, are the most widely used construction materials in the world [...]
Fractal Characteristics of the Pore Structure of Coral Powder–Cement Slurry under Different Fractal Models
Authors: Meng Qingshan , Qin Qinglong , Yang Huamei , Zhou Haoran , Wu Kai , Wang Lei
Published: March 2022

In this study, coral powder with different contents and levels of fineness were incorporated into cement; then, the pore structure of a coral powder–cement slurry was measured using the MIP test at days 3 days and 28, respectively. Neimark’s model, Ji’s model, and Pfeifer and Avnir’s model were also used to analyze the fractal characteristics of the coral powder–cement slurry. The results show that the coral powder–cement slurry has multifractal characteristics when using Neimark’s model, and the entire pore size range of the cement slurry can be divided into three parts: Region I (1–200 μm), Region II (70 nm–4 μm), and Region III (5–500 nm). The pore surface fractal dimension of both Regions I and III is less than 3, while that of Region II is greater than 3. This indicates that Regions I and III have obvious fractal characteristics, which Region II does not. Meanwhile, the pore surface fractal dimension of Region I is positively correlated with hydration age, while the pore surface fractal dimension of Region III is less affected by hydration age and coral powder contents. Ji’s model reveals that coral powder–cement slurry also has multifractal characteristics, but the entire pore size range of the cement slurry can be divided into two parts: Region I (5.482 nm–500 m) and Region II (120 nm–370 μm). The pore volume fractal dimension of Region I is greater than 2 and less than 2.5, while that of Region II is greater than 2.9 and less than 3. Therefore, both Regions I and II have fractal characteristics. In addition, the coral powder admixture, fineness, and age have large effects on the pore volume fractal dimension and pore size range of Region II. Pfeifer and Avnir’s model reveals that the entire pore size range of cement slurry can also be divided into Region I (5.482–600 nm), Region II (120 nm–10 μm), and Region III (5–365 μm), and that the pore surface fractal dimension of both Regions I and III is less than 3, while that of Region II is greater than 3. This indicates that Regions I and III have fractal characteristics, while Region II does not have fractal characteristics.
Further Studies of the Association of Planetary Nebula BMP J16135406 with Galactic Open Cluster NGC 6067
Authors: Fragkou Vasiliki , Parker Quentin A. , Zijlstra Albert A. , Crause Lisa , Sabin Laurence , Vázquez Roberto
Published: March 2022

Planetary Nebulae (PNe) that are physical members of Galactic open clusters are powerful probes that allow precise determination of their distance and crucially their initial mass on the main sequence. Here, we revisit the physical association of the PN BMP J1613–5406 with the open cluster NGC 6067 and present our preliminary results based on our new ESO/VLT FORS2 data. Our PN spectral data permit the calculation of a precise radial velocity and reddening to the PN that shows a tight consistency with the literature corresponding cluster parameters including importantly the radial velocity. Our measurements, combined with the agreement between the distances of the two objects and the fact that the PN is located well within the cluster boundaries, confirm that the PN is physically associated with the cluster. The cluster has a turn-off mass of around 5 solar masses that indicates a PN initial mass of around 5.6 solar masses. This is closer to the theoretical lower limit of core-collapse supernova formation than has ever been previously observed, providing a unique opportunity for further stellar and Galactic chemical evolution studies using this system.
The Effect of Socio-Demographic Factors in Health-Seeking Behaviors among Bangladeshi Residents during the First Wave of COVID-19
Authors: Mou Taslin Jahan , Afroz Khandaker Anika , Haq Md. Ahsanul , Jahan Dilshad , Ahmad Rahnuma , Islam Tariqul , Chowdhury Kona , Kumar Santosh , Irfan Mohammed , Islam Md. Saiful , Islam Md. Fokhrul , Adnan Nihad , Haque Mainul
Published: March 2022

Background: Socio-demographic variability among nations and cultures highly influences health-seeking behavior (HSB) in managing endemic or pandemic diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the influence of socio-demographic factors on HSB among Bangladeshi residents during the first wave of COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was performed with Bangladeshi residents (60% male and 40% female; age range: 10–60 years or above) from May to July 2020. Information was collected from the participants who resided in slum areas or did not have internet access through face-to-face surveys, maintaining spatial distancing and proper preventive measures. A self-reported and structured questionnaire, including socio-demographic and HSB, was undertaken, and the data was analyzed using a convenience sampling method. Finally, among the 947 participants, 20 were selected using a stratified random sampling technique for in-depth-interview (IDI). The linear regression analysis was performed to determine the influence of socio-demographic factors on HSB. Results: Only about 4.2% of respondents did not wear masks, but nearly half of the participants (46.6%) did not use hand gloves. The mean score of HSB was 9.98 (SD = 2.01) out of 16, with a correct overall rate of 62.4%. As per regression analysis, higher HSBs were found among participants who reported older age (>50 years) (9.96 ± 2.45), educated unemployed students (10.1 ± 1.95), higher education (10.5 ± 1.76), and higher-income (10.4 ± 1.59); in contrast, participants living in slum areas (8.18 ± 2.34) and whose source of income was business (8.46 ± 2.04) exhibited lower HSBs. Females, compared to men, showed better HSB in every aspect, apart from online food ordering. Qualitative data showed that the younger generation is more aware because of their access to information and persuaded the older generations to follow health-seeking protocols. The results also showed that some lower-income slum-dwellers have access to information and healthcare through their employers. IDIs also found cultural, religious, and mental-health affect people’s adherence to health-seeking guidelines and regulations. Conclusions: The findings suggest that socio-demographic factors significantly influenced HSBs during COVID-19 in the Bangladeshi population. Authorities can use these observations to systematically manage future endemics or pandemics.
Factors Associated with Loneliness in Rural Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Focusing on Connection with Others
Authors: Hanesaka Hiyori , Hirano Michiyo
Published: March 2022

The spread of COVID-19 is considered to have strengthened people’s awareness of others. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced connection with others among older adults and increased loneliness. This study aimed to investigate the factors affecting loneliness among older adults in rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic by focusing on the connection with others. The target group included 932 rural Japanese adults, aged 65–74 years. An anonymous, self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted. Valid responses were obtained from 405 participants (valid response rate: 43.5%). A multiple regression analysis was performed using the forced entry method with loneliness as the dependent variable. The independent variables were those showing significant associations with loneliness based on the univariate analysis. Sex (β = −0.139), economic situation (β = −0.103), neighborhood ties (β = −0.260), independent view of self (β = −0.213), interdependent view of self (β = 0.171), and communication through phone (β = −0.128) were significantly associated with loneliness. Connection with others and subjective views of the relationship between self and others were associated with loneliness in situations where one was more aware of the behavior of oneself and others in an infectious disease pandemic.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Depression in Medical Students in a Northern Thailand University: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Phomprasith Suwatthanachai , Karawekpanyawong Nuntaporn , Pinyopornpanish Kanokporn , Jiraporncharoen Wichuda , Maneeton Benchalak , Phinyo Phichayut , Lawanaskol Suppachai
Published: March 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of depression in medical students. This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence and associated factors of depression in medical students from May 2018 to April 2019. Depression was diagnosed using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire. We evaluated the following potential predictors: demographic data, stressors, psychiatric comorbidities, emotional intelligence (EI), and perceived social support. The association between potential factors and depression was analyzed using multiple logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of depression was 149 of 706 students with 12.5% suicidality. Second- and fourth-year medical students were high-risk groups. Risk factors identified were insufficient income, physical illness, and previous psychiatric illness. Depression in medical students likely coincides with anxiety, internet addiction, sleep problems, and loneliness. Highly associated stressors were personal relationships, physical health, mental health, difficulties in social relationships, satisfaction with grades, and boredom with medical education. Protective EI factors included emotional self-control, problem-solving abilities, inner peace, and life satisfaction. Up to 21.1% of medical students had depression. In this study, among multiple known risk factors of depression, we found that EI is the novel protective factor against depression among medical students. EI training might be protective intervention for medical students in the future.
Mental Health Nurses’ Tacit Knowledge of Strategies for Improving Medication Adherence for Schizophrenia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lin Yao-Yu , Yen Wen-Jiuan , Hou Wen-Li , Liao Wei-Chou , Lin Mei-Ling
Published: March 2022

Non-adherence to medication among patients with schizophrenia is an important clinical issue with very complex reasons. Since medication administration is an essential nursing responsibility, improving strategies for patient medication compliance must be fully understood. This study aimed to explore the strategies mental health nurses (MHNs) implement in clinically improving patients with schizophrenia and to describe the nurses’ tacit knowledge of application strategies. A qualitative study with purposeful sampling was used. Twenty-five experienced MHNs in a psychiatric hospital in central Taiwan were given an in-depth interview. The texts were content-analyzed using NVivo 12 Pro software. MHNs promote medication adherence among patients with schizophrenia using the following strategies: establishing a conversational relationship, overall assessment of non-adherence to medication, understanding the disease and adjusting the concept of medication, incorporating interpersonal connection feedback, and building supportive resources. This study explored the strategies of MHNs that incorporated knowledge in managing treatment adherence in patients with schizophrenia. The findings add knowledge to clinical nursing practice about medication adherence among patients with schizophrenia.
Suicide Attempts among School-Attending Adolescents in Mongolia: Associated Factors and Gender Differences
Authors: Badarch Javzan , Chuluunbaatar Bayar , Batbaatar Suvd , Paulik Edit
Published: March 2022

Attempting suicide is an important risk factor that can lead to suicide death. The aim of the current study was to examine the prevalence of suicide attempts and to identify the gender-specific predictors of suicide among adolescents in Mongolia. We analyzed data from the 2019 Mongolian Global School-Based Health Survey (GSHS) conducted nationwide among 13–18-year-old students. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to assess the correlates of suicide attempts. Overall, 32.1% of the adolescents reported to have had suicide attempts. Multivariable analysis showed a significant association in the total sample of suicide attempts with lack of close friends, anxiety, injury and violence, smoking and alcohol drinking, and sexual intercourse. Male suicide attempters were less likely to have close friends and more likely to have injuries, been physically attacked, been bullied, smoke, drink alcohol, and have had sexual intercourse. Within the female subgroup, anxiety, injury and violence, smoking and alcohol drinking significantly increased the odds of reporting suicide attempts. Increase of the student’s age by one year decreased the odds ratio of suicide attempts. Nearly one in three students had had a suicide attempt. Several factors, including mental distress, violence, and risky behaviors were found to be associated with suicide attempts. These can aid in designing intervention strategies for preventing suicidal behaviors among adolescents.
Experiences and Expectations of Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19: A Qualitative Study in Poland
Authors: Marcinowicz Ludmila , Fejfer-Wirbal Ewa , Taranta Ewa , Chlabicz Slawomir , Terlikowski Slawomir J.
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many new problems and challenges for medical personnel, patients and their families. The present study aimed to learn the difficulties and expectations of patients hospitalized for COVID-19. A descriptive qualitative research approach was adopted, and the study was carried out using semi-structured telephone interviews with 20 patients according to Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines. Two main themes were extracted from the experiences related by patients hospitalized for COVID-19: difficulties resulting from their poor health condition and difficulties resulting from hospital conditions and safety protocols. The patients’ expectations referred to professionalism and family members’ support. From the patient’s perspective, a sense of humor in the care provider is important, apart from professionalism and the effectiveness of treatment, because humor helps the patient endure difficult situations. The findings indicate that patients hospitalized for COVID-19 experienced both positive and negative emotions. Their negative experiences concerned organizational barriers and medical personnel shortages, especially of clinical nurses. Patients’ expectations are realistic and appropriate to the situation they are in. Learning the difficulties and expectations of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 may help care providers cope with this disease more effectively and ensure better care for patients, including nursing and psychological services.
The Tool for Evaluating Media Portrayals of Suicide (TEMPOS): Development and Application of a Novel Rating Scale to Reduce Suicide Contagion
Authors: Sorensen Chloe Chang , Lien Mego , Harrison Vicki , Donoghue John J. , Kapur Jeevanjot Singh , Kim Song Hi , Tran Nhi Thi , Joshi Shashank V. , Patel Sita G.
Published: March 2022

Research suggests that media adherence to suicide reporting recommendations in the aftermath of a highly publicized suicide event can help reduce the risk of imitative behavior, yet there exists no standardized tool for assessing adherence to these standards. The Tool for Evaluating Media Portrayals of Suicide (TEMPOS) allows media professionals, researchers, and suicide prevention experts to assess adherence to the recommendations with a user-friendly, standardized rating scale. An interdisciplinary team of raters constructed operational definitions for three levels of adherence to each of the reporting recommendations and piloted the scale on a sample of articles to assess reliability and clarify scale definitions. TEMPOS was then used to evaluate 220 news articles published during a high-risk period following the suicide deaths of two public figures. Post-hoc analyses of the results demonstrated how data produced by TEMPOS can be used to inform research and public health efforts, and inter-rater reliability analyses revealed substantial agreement across raters and criteria. A novel, wide-reaching, and practical approach to suicide prevention, TEMPOS allows researchers, suicide prevention professionals, and media professionals to study how adherence varies across contexts and can be used to guide future efforts to decrease the risk of media-induced suicide contagion.
Assessing Walking Programs in Fibromyalgia: A Concordance Study between Measures
Authors: López-Roig Sofía , Ecija Carmen , Peñacoba Cecilia , Ivorra Sofía , Nardi-Rodríguez Ainara , Lecuona Oscar , Pastor-Mira María Angeles
Published: March 2022

This study analyzes the degree of agreement between three self-report measures (Walking Behavior, WALK questionnaire and logbooks) assessing adherence to walking programs through reporting their components (minutes, rests, times a week, consecutive weeks) and their concordance with a standard self-report of physical activity (IPAQ-S questionnaire) and an objective, namely number of steps (pedometer), in 275 women with fibromyalgia. Regularized partial correlation networks were selected as the analytic framework. Three network models based on two different times of assessment, namely T1 and T2, including 6 weeks between both, were used. WALK and the logbook were connected with Walking Behavior and also with the IPAQ-S. The logbook was associated with the pedometers (Z-score > 1 in absolute value). When the behavior was assessed specifically and in a detailed manner, participants’ results for the different self-report measures were in agreement. Specific self-report methods provide detailed information that is consistent with validated self-report measures (IPAQ-S) and objective measures (pedometers). The self-report measures that assess the behavioral components of physical activity are useful when studying the implementation of walking as physical exercise.
HIV and STI Testing Preferences for Men Who Have Sex with Men in High-Income Countries: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kularadhan Varsicka , Gan Joscelyn , Chow Eric P. F. , Fairley Christopher K. , Ong Jason J.
Published: March 2022

Background: Regular testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI) is recommended at least annually for sexually active men who have sex with men (MSM) in most high-income countries. To encourage regular use of HIV and STI testing and treatment services for MSM, we reviewed the literature to summarise the attributes of an HIV/STI testing service that MSM prefer. Method: We conducted a scoping review, searching PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO and CINAHL in January 2020 for articles reporting primary data on the preferences of MSM (living in high-income countries) for HIV/STI testing services. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts and any discrepancies were resolved by a third reviewer. We extracted data on the service attributes that MSM preferred and summarised these thematically using a socioecological framework. Results: In total, 1464 publications were identified, 220 full texts were read and 57 were included in the final analysis. We found 21 articles addressing ‘individual’ attributes, 50 articles addressing ‘service’ attributes and 17 articles addressing ‘societal’ attributes. The key themes of preferences for HIV/STI testing services were: (1) the appeal of self-testing due to convenience and privacy; (2) the need to provide a variety of testing options; and (3) the influence of the testing experience, including confidentiality and privacy, tester characteristics and stigma. There were distinct patterns of preferences for subpopulations of MSM across studies, such as the preference of self-testing for young MSM, and of in-clinic testing for those who perceived themselves as high risk (i.e., with symptoms of STIs or exposed to a partner living with HIV). Conclusion: To make HIV/STI testing more accessible for MSM and encourage regular screening, it is important to address ‘individual’, ‘service’ and ‘societal’ attributes, such as enhancing the convenience of testing through self-testing, and providing a service that men feel comfortable and safe accessing. Furthermore, services should accommodate the preferences of diverse sub-populations within the MSM community.
Impact of Weather on Pedestrians’ Slip Risk
Authors: Hippi Marjo , Kangas Markku
Published: March 2022

Pedestrians’ slipping injuries are a very typical problem in the Nordic countries, causing varying degrees of injuries and in the worst case, long sick leaves. There is a clear seasonal variation in the number of slips. Sidewalk slipperiness and the risk of slips is a complex combination of weather, winter maintenance activities, number of walkers, and the grip between shoes and surface, as well as human behavioral and physical factors. In this study, the effect of weather on pedestrians’ slipping injuries is studied. Daily weather observations are compared to the slip statistics that have been collected from commuting accident statistics in cases where the way of commuting has been walking. A total of 16 cities from Finland for 14 winters are included in this study. The results reveal that snow on the ground increases the slip risk more than three times compared to no-snow situations. Near zero temperatures and precipitation are very typical on days when slip injuries occur more than usual. However, there are also days when high amounts of slips cannot be explained with the weather. The study also shows that there are significant differences as to the number and timing of slips between different parts of the country.
Comparison of Work-Related Stress in Cluster of Workers’ Suicides in Korea: Analysis of Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance, 2010–2017
Authors: Jang Jungwon , Kim Inah , Kim Yangwoo , Song Jaechul
Published: March 2022

Background: There is limited research on the heterogeneity of worker suicides. We compared differences in workers’ suicides by clustering suicide deaths. Methods: From 2010 to 2017, 353 suicide deaths were claimed in the Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance; variables were coded using a standardized methodology. A two-step cluster analysis classified the clusters based on demographic and employment conditions. Details of the suicide, clinical variables, personal stresses, and work-related stresses were compared using the chi-square test and one-way analysis of variance. Results: We identified five clusters and they differed particularly in work-related stress. “Responsibility-burdened type” experienced excessive responsibility as managers; “role-changed type” experienced a sudden and unpredictable role change as clerks or sales workers; “risk-exposed type” experienced physical risk factors at work (working alone, outdoors, and in shifts) as machine operating and assembling workers, or craft and related trades workers; “job-insecurity type” experienced unstable employment (irregular, nonpermanent) as elementary or service workers; “workplace-violence type” was mainly unmarried women who lived alone, and experienced interpersonal conflict and violence as professionals and related workers. There were no differences between clusters in clinical variables (except problem drinking) and personal stresses. Conclusion: Interventions to alleviate work-related stress in worker clusters are needed to prevent suicide in workers.
Relationship of Self Efficacy in Medication Understanding with Quality of Life among Elderly with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on Polypharmacy in Malaysia
Authors: Rosli Nur Athirah , Mazapuspavina Md Yasin , Ismail Zaliha , Elkudssiah Ismail Nahlah
Published: March 2022

Self-efficacy (SE) has been shown to be positively correlated with quality of life (QOL) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Medication understanding (MU) on the other hand, leads to good adherence that indirectly improves QOL. Measuring self-efficacy in medication understanding is useful to ascertain patient’s confidence in medication adherence. However, there is a lack of studies on the relationship between self-efficacy in medication understanding with QOL. This study aimed to determine the relationship between self-efficacy in medication understanding and QOL, and the factors associated with QOL in elderly with T2DM on polypharmacy. A cross-sectional study was conducted on these populations at primary care specialist clinic. Malay version of MU in SE questionnaire (MUSE) was used. Higher scores showed a better understanding. A revised Version Diabetic Quality of Life-13 (RVDQOL-13) questionnaire was used with lower scores indicating higher QOL. A total of 321 patients participated, with the majority being male (58.3%), Malay (84.7%), a predominant age group of 60–69 (75.7%) with mean age (±SD) of 66.7 (±0.286) years old. The median (IQR) of MUSE was high—30 (4)—while the RVDQOL-13 was low—19 (8)—which demonstrated high QOL. Inverse correlation was found between MUSE and QOL (r −0.14, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that MUSE score (β −0.282; 95% CI: (−5.438, −2.581); p < 0.001), low-income group (β −0.144; 95% CI: (−3.118, −0.534); p = 0.006) and duration of medications ≥240 days (β −0.282; 95% CI: (−5.438, −2.581); p < 0.001) were associated with better QOL, while medications ≥10 (β 0.109; 95% CI: 0.214, 4.462; p = 0.031) and those with pills and insulin (β 0.193; 95% CI: 1.206, 3.747; p < 0.001) were associated with poor QOL. In conclusion, higher MUSE is associated with better QOL. Findings suggest emphasizing self-efficacy in medication understanding in the management of elderly with T2DM on polypharmacy to improve QOL.