bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Synergy between History of Mathematics and Mathematics Education: A Possible Path from Geometry to Symbolic Algebra
Authors: Florio Emilia
Published: September 2020

This paper proposes an experimental path aimed at guiding upper secondary school students to overcome that discontinuity, often perceived by them, between learning geometry and learning algebra. This path contributes to making students aware of how the algebraic language, formalized in the most powerful form by Descartes, grafts itself onto the geometric language. This is realized by introducing a problem included in a text written by Abū Kāmil before the year 870. This awareness acquired by the students, when accompanied by some semiotic considerations, allows the translation of the problem from “spoken” algebra to “symbolic” algebra, and it represents the background for a possible use of the same problem within the framework of analytic geometry. This proposition manifests a didactic and popular efficacy that supports and favors the recognition of the object it is talking about in different contexts, helping to create a unitary vision of mathematics.
SOFIA: Selection of Medical Features by Induced Alterations in Numeric Labels
Authors: Bravo Franklin Parrales , García Alberto A. Del Barrio , Russo Luis M. S. , Ayala Jose L.
Published: September 2020

This work deals with the improvement of multi-target prediction models through a proposed optimization called Selection Of medical Features by Induced Alterations in numeric labels (SOFIA). This method performs a data transformation when: (1) weighting the features, (2) performing small perturbations on numeric labels and (3) selecting the features that are relevant in the trained multi-target prediction models. With the purpose of decreasing the computational cost in the SOFIA method, we consider those multi-objective optimization metaheuristics that support parallelization. In this sense, we propose an extension of the Natural Optimization (NO) approach for Simulated Annealing to support a multi-objective (MO) optimization. This proposed extension, called MONO, and some multiobjective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs) are considered when performing the SOFIA method to improve prediction models in a multi-stage migraine treatment. This work also considers the adaptation of these metaheuristics to run on GPUs for accelerating the exploration of a larger space of solutions and improving results at the same time. The obtained results show that accuracies close to 88% are obtained with the MONO metaheuristic when employing eight threads and when running on a GPU. In addition, training times have been decreased from more than 8 h to less than 45 min when running the algorithms on a GPU. Besides, classification models trained with the SOFIA method only require 15 medical features or fewer to predict treatment responses. All in all, the methods proposed in this work remarkably improve the accuracy of multi-target prediction models for the OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) treatment, while selecting those relevant features that allow us to know in advance the response to every stage of the treatment.
Faulty Feeder Detection Method Based on VMD–FFT and Pearson Correlation Coefficient of Non-Power Frequency Component in Resonant Grounded Systems
Authors: Wei Kewen , Zhang Jing , He Yu , Yao Gang , Zhang Yikun
Published: September 2020

Through analyzing the transient components and transient characteristics in transient zero-sequence current (TZSC), a novel fault feeder detection method based on the transient correlation of non-power frequency components (NPFCs) for the resonant grounded system is proposed. Firstly, using variational mode decomposition combined with fast Fourier transformation (VMD–FFT) to decompose the TZSC, by removing the power frequency components and noise signals, the transient NPFCs can be obtained. Secondly, to reflect the overall changing trend between faulty and healthy currents, the moving average filter is introduced to smooth the NPFCs; in this way, the fault transient features can be accurately revealed. Finally, the faulty feeder can be detected by comparing the threshold with the maximum difference value of comprehensive correlation coefficient of NPFCs. The detection results show that the proposed fault detection method can accurately select the faulty feeder; it is unaffected by fault resistances, fault phase angles, etc. Moreover, the detection method can resist noise interference.
Application of Waveform Stacking Methods for Seismic Location at Multiple Scales
Authors: Li Lei , Xie Yujiang , Tan Jingqiang
Published: September 2020

Seismic source location specifies the spatial and temporal coordinates of seismic sources and lays the foundation for advanced seismic monitoring at all scales. In this work, we firstly introduce the principles of diffraction stacking (DS) and cross-correlation stacking (CCS) for seismic location. The DS method utilizes the travel time from the source to receivers, while the CCS method considers the differential travel time from pairwise receivers to the source. Then, applications with three field datasets ranging from small-scale microseismicity to regional-scale induced seismicity are presented to investigate the feasibility, imaging resolution, and location reliability of the two stacking operators. Both of the two methods can focus the source energy by stacking the waveforms of the selected events. Multiscale examples demonstrate that the imaging resolution is not only determined by the inherent property of the stacking operator but also highly dependent on the acquisition geometry. By comparing to location results from other methods, we show that the location bias is consistent with the scale size, as well as the frequency contents of the seismograms and grid spacing values.
Efficiency of Laser-Shaped Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Korzeniewska Ewa , Tomczyk Mariusz , Pietrzak Łukasz , Hadžiselimović Miralem , Štumberger Bojan , Sredenšek Klemen , Seme Sebastijan
Published: September 2020

The main aim of this paper is to analyze the influence of laser shaping of the photovoltaic cell based on its efficiency. The authors described both process of the monocrystalline photovoltaic cell manufacturing, its efficiency, and the possibilities of usage in architecture and the process of creating the photovoltaic cells of unconventional shapes by using laser technology. A method for cutting photovoltaic cells using a fiber laser was presented as well as the parameters of the laser cutting process. The described method allows cutting the massively produced silicon cells according to the predetermined trajectory. Using the proposed process parameters, satisfactory cutting edge quality, and negligible impact of the laser beam on changes in the structure of the photovoltaic cell active layers were achieved. In each cycle of structure cutting, only a small part of the material is removed (from 1 to 2 μm), and depending on the thickness, the process is repeated from 50 to 300 times. It has been shown that the efficiency of the modified cells depends on the ratio of their surface area to the laser cutting line.
Influence of Different Sweeteners on the Stability of Anthocyanins from Cornelian Cherry Juice
Authors: Moldovan Bianca , David Luminita
Published: September 2020

Cornelian cherries are red fruits which can be considered as a valuable dietary source of antioxidant biologically active compounds, especially anthocyanins. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the anthocyanins degradation process in Cornelian cherry juice supplemented with different sweeteners. Four formulations of Cornelian cherry juice were prepared using different sugars (sucrose, fructose) or artificial sweeteners (aspartame and acesulfame potassium). The obtained juices were stored at three distinct temperatures (2 °C, 25 °C, and 75 °C) in order to evaluate the effects of the sweetener and storage conditions on the pigment stability. The rate constants (k) and the half time values (t1/2) of the degradation processes were determined. The highest stability was observed for the anthocyanins from the unsweetened juice stored at 2 °C (k = 0.5·10−3 h−1), while the most accelerated degradation was registered for the fructose sweetened juice stored at 75 °C (k = 91.65·10−3 h−1). The presence of the different sweeteners in the Cornelian cherry juice affects their pigment stability during storage. The highest change in the retention of anthocyanins was determined by the presence of fructose, while acesulfame potassium had the less deleterious effect.
Characterization and Bio-Accessibility Evaluation of Olive Leaf Extract-Enriched “Taralli”
Authors: Cedola Annamaria , Palermo Carmen , Centonze Diego , Del Nobile Matteo Alessandro , Conte Amalia
Published: September 2020

Olive leaves are rich in many compounds precious for human health. Due to this property, the current study was aimed to valorize the extract from this by-product in a cereal-based food, very popular all around the world, the “taralli”. To this aim, ultrasound-assisted extraction was applied to dried olive leaves to obtain the extract, used as “taralli” ingredient, instead of white wine. The “taralli” with and without extract was subjected to in vitro digestion to assess the quantity of polyphenolic compounds released in the gastrointestinal tract to become available for absorption. Total content of phenols and flavonoids, as well as the antioxidant capacity, was measured on both cooked and uncooked samples, before and after digestion. In addition, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode-Array Detection (HPLC-DAD) of the three most abundant polyphenols present in olive leaf extracts, such as oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, and verbascoside, was carried out at the three stages of the digestion process. The results showed that the substitution of white wine with olive leaf extract increased the total content of polyphenols and flavonoids and the antioxidant capacity. Bio-accessibility of the main phenolic compounds demonstrated that oleuropein resisted slightly after gastric digestion but was almost completely degraded in the intestinal phase, while hydroxytyrosol and verbascoside were not resistant to the digestion process from the gastric phase.
Effects of Supplementation of Microalgae (Aurantiochytrium sp.) to Laying Hen Diets on Fatty Acid Content, Health Lipid Indices, Oxidative Stability, and Quality Attributes of Meat
Authors: Liu Bing , Jiang Jiang , Yu Dongyou , Lin Gang , Xiong Youling L.
Published: September 2020

The present study is conducted to investigate the effects of dietary docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)-rich microalgae (MA, Aurantiochytrium sp.) on health lipid indices, stability, and quality properties of meat from laying hens. A total of 450 healthy 50-wk-old Hy-Line Brown layers were randomly allotted to 5 groups (6 replicates of 15 birds each), which received diets supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0% MA for 15 weeks. Fatty acid contents and quality properties of breast and thigh muscles from two randomly selected birds per replicate (n = 12) were measured. The oxidative stability of fresh, refrigerated, frozen, and cooked meat was also determined. Results indicated that supplemental MA produced dose-dependent enrichments of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA), predominantly DHA, in breast and thigh muscles, with more health-promoting n-6/n-3 ratios (1.87–5.27) and favorable lipid health indices (p < 0.05). MA supplementation did not affect tenderness (shear force) and color (L*, a*, and b* values) of hen meat nor muscle endogenous antioxidant enzymes and fresh meat oxidation (p > 0.05). However, the n-3 LC-PUFA deposition slightly increased lipid oxidation in cooked and stored (4 °C) meat (p < 0.05). In conclusion, MA supplementation improves the nutritional quality of hen meat in terms of lipid profile without compromising meat quality attributes. Appropriate antioxidants are required to mitigate oxidation when such DHA-enriched meat is subjected to cooking and storage.
Microbiological and Chemical Quality of Portuguese Lettuce—Results of a Case Study
Authors: Ferreira Catarina , Lopes Filipa , Costa Reginaldo , Komora Norton , Ferreira Vânia , Cruz Fernandes Virgínia , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Teixeira Paula
Published: September 2020

In addition to environmental pollution issues, social concerns about the sustainability, safety, and quality of conventionally grown fruits and vegetables have been increasing. In order to evaluate if there were any microbiological differences between samples of organic and conventional lettuce, a wide range of parameters were tested, including pathogens and indicator organisms: the enumeration of Escherichia coli; the detection of Salmonella spp.; the detection/enumeration of Listeria monocytogenes; the enumeration of lactic acid bacteria, Pseudomonas spp. yeasts and molds, and Enterobacteriaceae. This study also evaluated the chemical safety of the lettuce samples, quantifying the nitrate concentration and 20 pesticides (14 organochlorine and 6 organophosphorus pesticides). Significant differences (p < 0.05) between the conventional and organic samples were only detected for the counts of total microorganisms at 30 °C. Pathogens were absent in all the samples. The analytical method, using the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) approach for pesticide extraction, was suitable for detecting the targeted analytes; the limit of quantification (LOQ) was between 0.6 and 1.8 µg/kg (lower than the Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) established by EU legislation). In three organic lettuce samples, one organochlorine pesticide (α-HCH) was observed below the MRLs. For the samples analyzed and for the parameters investigated, except for the total mesophilic counts, the organic and conventional lettuces were not different.
Enlarging Knowledge on Lager Beer Volatile Metabolites Using Multidimensional Gas Chromatography
Authors: Martins Cátia , Brandão Tiago , Almeida Adelaide , Rocha Sílvia M.
Published: September 2020

Foodomics, emergent field of metabolomics, has been applied to study food system processes, and it may be useful to understand sensorial food properties, among others, through foods metabolites profiling. Thus, as beer volatile components represent the major contributors for beer overall and peculiar aroma properties, this work intends to perform an in-depth profiling of lager beer volatile metabolites and to generate new data that may contribute for molecules’ identification, by using multidimensional gas chromatography. A set of lager beers were used as case-study, and 329 volatile metabolites were determined, distributed over 8 chemical families: acids, alcohols, esters, monoterpenic compounds, norisoprenoids, sesquiterpenic compounds, sulfur compounds, and volatile phenols. From these, 96 compounds are reported for the first time in the lager beer volatile composition. Around half of them were common to all beers under study. Clustering analysis allowed a beer typing according to production system: macro- and microbrewer beers. Monoterpenic and sesquiterpenic compounds were the chemical families that showed wide range of chemical structures, which may contribute for the samples’ peculiar aroma characteristics. In summary, as far as we know, this study presents the most in-depth lager beer volatile composition, which may be further used in several approaches, namely, in beer quality control, monitoring brewing steps, raw materials composition, among others.
Modifications of Gut Microbiota after Grape Pomace Supplementation in Subjects at Cardiometabolic Risk: A Randomized Cross-Over Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Ramos-Romero Sara , Martínez-Maqueda Daniel , Hereu Mercè , Amézqueta Susana , Torres Josep Lluís , Pérez-Jiménez Jara
Published: September 2020

Polyphenols are dietary bioactive compounds able to induce modifications in the gut microbiota profile, although more clinical studies are needed. With this aim, a randomized cross-over clinical trial was conducted, where 49 subjects at cardiometabolic risk (exhibiting at least two metabolic syndrome factors) were supplemented with a daily dose of 8 g of grape pomace (GP) for 6 weeks, with an equivalent control (CTL) period. The levels of total bacteria and Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Lactobacilliales, Bacteroides and Prevotella were estimated in fecal DNA by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), while fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were assessed by gas chromatography. Several cardiometabolic markers were evaluated in blood samples. GP reduced insulin levels only in half of the participants (responders). GP supplementation did not cause significant modifications in the microbiota profile of the whole group, except for a tendency (p = 0.059) towards a decrease in the proportion of Lactobacilliales, while it increased the proportion of Bacteroides in non-responder subjects. The reduction of insulin levels in subjects at cardiometabolic risk upon GP supplementation appears not to be induced by changes in the major subgroups of gut microbiota. Further studies at the species level may help to elucidate the possible role of microbiota in GP-induced insulinemic status.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals a Gene Expression Pattern Associated with Fuzz Fiber Initiation Induced by High Temperature in Gossypium barbadense
Authors: Cheng Gongmin , Zhang Longyan , Wei Hengling , Wang Hantao , Lu Jianhua , Yu Shuxun
Published: September 2020

Gossypium barbadense is an important source of natural textile fibers, as is Gossypium hirsutum. Cotton fiber development is often affected by various environmental factors, such as abnormal temperature. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms of temperature regulating the fuzz fiber initiation. In this study, we reveal that high temperatures (HT) accelerate fiber development, improve fiber quality, and induced fuzz initiation of a thermo-sensitive G. barbadense variety L7009. It was proved that fuzz initiation was inhibited by low temperature (LT), and 4 dpa was the stage most susceptible to temperature stress during the fuzz initiation period. A total of 43,826 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified through comparative transcriptome analysis. Of these, 9667 were involved in fiber development and temperature response with 901 transcription factor genes and 189 genes related to plant hormone signal transduction. Further analysis of gene expression patterns revealed that 240 genes were potentially involved in fuzz initiation induced by high temperature. Functional annotation revealed that the candidate genes related to fuzz initiation were significantly involved in the asparagine biosynthetic process, cell wall biosynthesis, and stress response. The expression trends of sixteen genes randomly selected from the RNA-seq data were almost consistent with the results of qRT-PCR. Our study revealed several potential candidate genes and pathways related to fuzz initiation induced by high temperature. This provides a new view of temperature-induced tissue and organ development in Gossypium barbadense.
Investigation of Spatial and Temporal Changes in the Land Surface Albedo for the Entire Chinese Territory
Authors: Yuan Jihui
Published: September 2020

Currently, global climate change (GCC) and the urban heat island (UHI) phenomena are becoming serious problems, partly due to the artificial construction of the land surface. When sunlight reaches the land surface, some of it is absorbed and some is reflected. The state of the land surface directly affects the surface albedo, which determines the magnitude of solar radiation reflected by the land surface in the daytime. In order to better understand the spatial and temporal changes in surface albedo, this study investigated and analyzed the surface albedo from 2000 to 2016 (2000, 2008, and 2016) in the entire Chinese territory, based on the measurement database obtained from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) instrument, aboard NASA’s Terra satellite. It was shown that the Northeast China exhibited the largest decline in surface albedo and North China showed the largest rising trend of surface albedo from 2000 to 2016. The correlation between changes in surface albedo and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) indicated that the change trend of surface albedo was opposite to that of NDVI. In addition, in order to better understand the distribution of surface albedo in the entire Chinese territory, the classifications of surface albedo in three years (2000, 2008, and 2016) were implemented using five classification methods in this study.
Mire Development and Disappearance due to River Capture as Hydrogeological and Geomorphological Consequences of LGM Ice-Marginal Valley Evolution at the Vistula-Neman Watershed
Authors: Wierzbicki Grzegorz , Grygoruk Mateusz , Grodzka-Łukaszewska Maria , Bartold Piotr , Okruszko Tomasz
Published: September 2020

The advances and retreats of ice sheets during Pleistocene significantly changed high- and mid-latitude landscapes and hydrological systems, albeit differently, in North America and Europe. On the southern margin of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) in the Baltic Sea basin, a specific type of valley has developed between glacial margins and upland or mountain slopes. We studied new geological data (boreholes, electrical resistivity imaging (ERI) from this geomorphic setting in Northeast Poland to understand: (1) how the landscape and river network evolved to eventually produce peat mires during the Holocene, and (2) the nature of groundwater recharge to fens in the upper Biebrza Valley. We present the results on a geological cross-section with hydrogeological interpretation. We also discuss regional geomorphology. In addition, we present the LGM extent derived from a spatial distribution of Vistulian (Weichselian) terminal moraines. These end moraines are also interpreted as Saalian kames. Thus, we additionally present another method of LGM extent delineation from a physicogeographical division. We link the steep slopes of the studied valley walls (kame terrace fronts) with thermokarst erosion in the periglacial zone. We then document the hydrogeological window (DISCONTINUITY in the till layer over the confined aquifer), which enables the outflow of groundwater into the peat bog. Although minerotrophic fen mire development in the study area is likely to be sustained in the near future through sufficient groundwater supply, the projected capture of the Biebrza River by the Neman River will not allow for sustaining peatland development.
Application of ‘Estimation Procedures’ in Unsaturated Soil Mechanics
Authors: Fredlund Delwyn G. , Fredlund Murray D.
Published: September 2020

The application of unsaturated soil mechanics in routine geotechnical engineering applications requires the determination of unsaturated soil properties. Unfortunately, the cost of direct measurement of unsaturated soil properties goes beyond the financial budget of most clients. A solution has arisen, however, that involves the measurement of two less costly soil properties functions that can be used in conjunction with a series of assumptions and estimation methodologies. The two laboratory tests involve measurement of the: (i) gravimetric water content versus soil suction, referred to as the soil-water characteristic curve (w-SWCC) and (ii) water content versus void ratio, referred to as the shrinkage curve (SC). These two unsaturated soil property relationships can be used along with saturated soil properties to extend unsaturated soil properties over the full range of soil suctions. “Estimation procedures” have been developed and verified for all physical properties of interest in unsaturated soil mechanics. The use of estimation procedures has meant that the geotechnical engineer must operate within a new paradigm. The new paradigm provides sufficient accuracy for most geotechnical engineering applications. The net result is an increased decision-making capability for geotechnical engineers.
Virtual Reality-Based Cognitive–Motor Rehabilitation in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Study on Motivation and Cognitive Function
Authors: Park Ji-Su , Jung Young-Jin , Lee Gihyoun
Published: September 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of virtual reality-based cognitive–motor rehabilitation (VRCMR) on the rehabilitation motivation and cognitive function in older adults. This study enrolled 40 older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), living in the community. The subjects were randomly assigned to a VRCMR group (n = 20) or a conventional cognitive rehabilitation (CCR) group (n = 20). The VRCMR group underwent VRCMR using MOTOcog, a computer recognition program, whereas the CCR group underwent conventional cognitive rehabilitation, which included puzzles, wood blocks, card play, stick construction activity, and maze activity. Both interventions were performed 30 min per day, 5 days/week, for 6 weeks. This study performed a cognitive assessment using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale, Trail Making Test A and B (TMT-A/B), and Digit Span Test forward and backward (DST-forward/backward). In addition, a 0-to-10 numeric rating self-report scale was used to assess interest and motivation during the rehabilitation training. After the intervention, the VRCMR group showed a significantly greater improvement in the MoCA (p = 0.045), TMT-A (p = 0.039), TMT-B (p = 0.040), and DST-forward (p = 0.011) scores compared to the CCR group, but not in the DST-backward score (p = 0.424). In addition, subjects in the experimental group had significantly higher interest (p = 0.03) and motivation (p = 0.03) than those in the control group. Cohen’s d effect size was 0.4, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4, and 0.5 for the MoCA, TMT-A, TMT-B, DST-forward, and DST-backward tests, respectively. This study demonstrates that VRCMR enhances motivation for rehabilitation and cognitive function in older adults with MCI better than CCR.
The Predictors of Obesity among Urban Girls and Boys Aged 8–10 Years—A Cross-Sectional Study in North-Western Poland
Authors: Ratajczak Joanna , Petriczko Elzbieta
Published: September 2020

Background: Children worldwide are increasingly becoming overweight and obese and developing related health problems, including hypertension, lipid disorders, abnormal glucose tolerance, type 2 diabetes, and secondary psychological disorders. The aim of the study was to determine sociodemographic risk factors that predict an increase in BMI in children at an early school age. Material and method: The study covered 4972 children aged 8–10 years, including boys (N = 2461) and girls (N = 2511). Measurements of basic anthropometric indicators were used, such as body height, body weight, body composition, and physical fitness. The criteria developed by the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) were adopted. Sociodemographic features were analyzed based on a diagnostic survey. IBM SPSS Statistics v.25 (Mineral Midrange SA, Warsaw, Poland) and IBM SPSS Amos software (Mineral Midrange SA, Warsaw, Poland) were used to perform descriptive statistics, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Pearson′s chi-square test, Student’s t-test, and the Mann-Whitney U test. The statistical significance index was assumed to be p < 0.05, while p < 0.01 was taken as an indicator of a trend which was not completely statistically significant. Results: Both the children and their parents had mainly moderate BMI. A total of 78.7% of children were within the weight norm. Among girls, extreme obesity was two times more frequent than extreme underweight. The examined boys were significantly taller, heavier, and had a higher BMI than girls. There were significant differences between boys and girls in BMI; however, gender alone accounted for less than 1% variance. The influence of parents′ characteristics was much greater, increasing the explained variance to 10%. Body weight of mothers and fathers (p < 0.001), mother′s height (p < 0.01) and both parents′ level of education (p < 0.001) were detected as significant predictors of children’s BMI. Conclusions: The analysis of selected sociodemographic and health factors determining the BMI of the child population indicates the need for preventive action and health promotion both among children and their parents.
Impact of Lifestyle Variables on Oral Diseases and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Children of Milan (Italy)
Authors: Carmagnola Daniela , Pellegrini Gaia , Malvezzi Matteo , Canciani Elena , Henin Dolaji , Dellavia Claudia
Published: September 2020

A large part of the Italian population doesn’t receive adequate information and support on how to maintain oral health. In this observational, cross-sectional, pilot study, we investigated how some lifestyle-related variables affect oral diseases and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of children attending public-school summer services in Milan. A survey that included questions on children’s oral disease, OHRQoL and lifestyle-related factors (feeding habits, oral hygiene protective behaviors, dental coaching and socio-economic and educational status), was administered to the children’s caregivers. Data from 296 surveys were analyzed to assess the protective/negative effect of each variable on oral disease and OHRQoL. With respect to disease, the “never” consumption of fruit juice, the use of fluoride toothpaste, higher educational qualification and ISEE (equivalent family income) of those who filled out the form, resulted protective factors. Regarding OHRQoL, the “never” assumption/use of tea bottle, sugared pacifier and fruit juice as well as the use of fluoride toothpaste, a higher educational qualification and ISEE of those who filled out the form, resulted to have protective effects. In conclusion, protective behaviors and socio-economic status affect oral disease and OHRQoL in children of Milan.
A Qualitative Study Exploring Menstruation Experiences and Practices among Adolescent Girls Living in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Uganda
Authors: Kemigisha Elizabeth , Rai Masna , Mlahagwa Wendo , Nyakato Viola N. , Ivanova Olena
Published: September 2020

(1) Background: Girls in low- and lower-middle income countries face challenges in menstrual health management (MHM), which impact their health and schooling. This might be exacerbated by refugee conditions. This study aimed at describing menstruation practices and experiences of adolescent girls in Nakivale refugee settlement in Southwestern Uganda. (2) Methods: We conducted a qualitative study from March to May 2018 and we intentionally selected participants to broadly represent different age groups and countries of origin. We conducted 28 semistructured interviews and two focus group discussions. Data were transcribed and translated into English. Analysis included data familiarization, manual coding, generation and refining of themes. (3) Results: Main findings included: (a) challenging social context with negative experiences during migration, family separation and scarcity of resources for livelihood within the settlement; (b) unfavorable menstruation experiences, including unpreparedness for menarche and lack of knowledge, limitations in activity and leisure, pain, school absenteeism and psychosocial effects; (c) menstrual practices, including use of unsuitable alternatives for MHM and poor health-seeking behavior. (4) Conclusions: A multipronged approach to MHM management is crucial, including comprehensive sexual education, enhancement of parent–adolescent communication, health sector partnership and support from NGOs to meet the tailored needs of adolescent girls.
What Role Can Process Mining Play in Recurrent Clinical Guidelines Issues? A Position Paper
Authors: Gatta Roberto , Vallati Mauro , Fernandez-Llatas Carlos , Martinez-Millana Antonio , Orini Stefania , Sacchi Lucia , Lenkowicz Jacopo , Marcos Mar , Munoz-Gama Jorge , Cuendet Michel A. , de Bari Berardino , Marco-Ruiz Luis , Stefanini Alessandro , Valero-Ramon Zoe , Michielin Olivier , Lapinskas Tomas , Montvila Antanas , Martin Niels , Tavazzi Erica , Castellano Maurizio
Published: September 2020

In the age of Evidence-Based Medicine, Clinical Guidelines (CGs) are recognized to be an indispensable tool to support physicians in their daily clinical practice. Medical Informatics is expected to play a relevant role in facilitating diffusion and adoption of CGs. However, the past pioneering approaches, often fragmented in many disciplines, did not lead to solutions that are actually exploited in hospitals. Process Mining for Healthcare (PM4HC) is an emerging discipline gaining the interest of healthcare experts, and seems able to deal with many important issues in representing CGs. In this position paper, we briefly describe the story and the state-of-the-art of CGs, and the efforts and results of the past approaches of medical informatics. Then, we describe PM4HC, and we answer questions like how can PM4HC cope with this challenge? Which role does PM4HC play and which rules should be employed for the PM4HC scientific community?
Assessing Infection Risks among Clients and Staff Who Use Tattooing Services in Poland: An Observational Study
Authors: Gębska-Kuczerowska Anita , Kucharska Izabela , Segiet-Swiecicka Agnieszka , Kuczerowski Marcin , Gajda Robert
Published: September 2020

Across cultures and generations, people have tattooed their bodies. Although blood-borne infections from tattooing have been reduced, certain service aspects remain improperly managed. We assessed the infection risks associated with tattooing by conducting a cross-sectional study (2013–2014) in Poland using an anonymous questionnaire survey. Scoring procedures for blood-borne infection risks for tattooists and their clients were used. Overall, 255 tattooists were interviewed. A quasi-random selection of tattoo parlors was based on a service register. Knowledge, attitudes, and behavior regarding blood-borne infection risks were assessed using a questionnaire. Simultaneously, tattoo centers were audited. Tattooing had a higher infection risk for tattooists than for clients. Approximately 50% of respondents underwent training on postexposure procedures, which constituted almost one in five of the reported needlestick/cut injuries sustained while working. Furthermore, 25.8% had no knowledge regarding risk from reliable sources, and 2.1% had not broadened their knowledge. Tattooists and their clients are at a risk of infection, and knowledge concerning infection risks remains an underestimated preventative factor. Service quality surveillance and creation of a register for tattoo-related complications may help assess the scale of this public health issue. However, a lack of these records implies the challenges in developing effective organizational and legal protections.
Redesigning the Paradigms of Clinical Practice for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in the Era of Lockdown for COVID-19: From Tradition to Telesemeiology
Authors: Robiony Massimo , Bocin Elena , Sembronio Salvatore , Costa Fabio , Bresadola Vittorio , Tel Alessandro
Published: September 2020

The rise of the COVID-19 pandemic has posed new challenges for health care institutions. Restrictions imposed by local governments worldwide have compromised the mobility of patients and decreased the number of physicians in hospitals. Additional requirements in terms of medical staff security further limited the physical contact of doctors with their patients, thereby questioning the traditional methods of clinical examination. Our institution has developed an organization model to translate the essential clinical services into virtual consultation rooms using a telemedicine interface which is commonly available to patients. We provide examples of clinical activity for a maxillofacial surgery department based on teleconsultation. Our experience is summarized and an organization model is drafted in which outpatient consultation offices are translated into virtual room environments. Clinical examples are provided, demonstrating how each subspecialty of oral and maxillofacial surgery can benefit from virtual examinations. The concept of “telesemeiology” is introduced and a checklist is presented to guide clinicians to perform teleconsultations. This paper is intended to provide an organization model based on telemedicine for maxillofacial surgeons and aims to represent an aid for colleagues who are facing the pandemic in areas where lockdown limits the possibility of a physical examination.
Risk of Acquired Cholesteatoma and External Auditory Canal Stenosis in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Lin Hung-Che , Shih Cheng-Ping , Chen Hsin-Chien , Cheng Chun-An , Huang Yuahn-Sieh , Lin Chen-Shien , Chung Chi-Hsian , Huang Bor-Rong , Lee Jih-Chin , Shangkuan Wei-Chuan , Chien Wu-Chien , Chu Chi-Ming
Published: September 2020

The aim of study is to investigate the risk of developing acquired cholesteatoma and external auditory canal (EAC) stenosis after traumatic brain injury (TBI) from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD). Each subject was individually traced from their index date to identify those who received a diagnosis of acquired cholesteatoma and EAC stenosis. Cox regression analyses were applied to determine the risk of TBI-related acquired cholesteatoma and EAC stenosis. The follow-up data collected over 10 years were obtained from the TBI and comparison cohorts, of 455,834 and 911,668 patients, respectively. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that TBI significantly increased the risk of cholesteatoma (adjusted hazard ratio (HR), 1.777; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.494−2.114, p < 0.001) and EAC stenosis (adjusted (HR), 3.549; 95% (CI), 2.713−4.644, p < 0.001). In our subgroup injury analysis, falls had the highest associated risk (4.308 times), followed by traffic injuries (66.73%; 3.718 times that of the control group). Otolaryngologists should not neglect the clinical importance and carefully investigate the possibility of subsequent cholesteatoma and EAC stenosis, which leads to hearing impairment in patients with TBI. Our research also shows the important role in preventing TBI, especially as a result of traffic injuries and falls.
Design and Validity of a Choice-Modeling Questionnaire to Analyze the Feasibility of Implementing Physical Activity on Prescription at Primary Health-Care Settings
Authors: Calonge-Pascual Sergio , Fuentes-Jiménez Francisco , Casajús Mallén José A. , González-Gross Marcela
Published: September 2020

Worldwide health policies are trying to implement physical activity on prescription (PAP) at healthcare settings. However, there is not a proper methodology to analyze PHC organizational staff factors. This study aims to validate two questionnaires to assess the self-perception of nurses and general practitioners to implement PAP at primary healthcare (PHC) settings. The designed choice-modeling Google-form questionnaire was sent to 11 expert nurses and 11 expert sports medicine physicians. Experts evaluated each question on a 1–5 points Likert-type scale according to their expertise. Aiken’s V coefficient values ≥0.75 were used to validate separately each question using the Visual Basic-6.0 software. A total of 10 sports medicine physicians and 10 nurses with 28.4 ± 5.1 y and 16.3 ± 11.8 y of PAP experience, respectively, validated the questionnaire. One expert in each group was not considered for offering 3 ± SD answers in ≥2 questions respect to the mean of the rest of experts. Final Aiken’s V coefficient values were 0.89 (0.77–1.00) for the nurses’ questionnaire and 0.84 (0.77–0.95) for the physicians’ one. The questionnaires designed to assess the PAP self-perception of PHC nurses and physicians were validated. This methodology could be used to analyze PHC organizational staff factors in order to achieve an efficient PAP implementation in other PHC contexts.
Factors Associated with Body Size Perception and Body Image (Dis)Satisfaction in the Elderly: Results of the ELSA-Brasil Study
Authors: da Fonseca Maria de Jesus Mendes , Pimenta Isiyara Taverna , Albuquerque Liliane da Silva , Aquino Estela M. L. , Cardoso Letícia de Oliveira , Chor Dóra , Griep Rosane Harter
Published: September 2020

The study aimed to assess the association between body image perception and (dis)satisfaction and sociodemographic and behavioral factors in the elderly, using multinomial logistic regression. Data were analyzed for 1686 women and 1499 men participating in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Men with less schooling and women with lower per capita income showed higher odds of underestimating their body size. Former smokers of both sexes showed higher odds of overestimating their body size; lower schooling and lower per capita income decreased these odds. Increasing age, lower per capita income, and smoking increased the odds of dissatisfaction due to thinness in men, and married marital status decreased these odds. In women, low per capita income, weekly consumption of vegetables, and smoking increased the odds of such dissatisfaction. Factors that increased the odds of dissatisfaction due to excess weight in both sexes were primary or secondary schooling and former smoking. In women, low per capita income, weak physical activity, weekly consumption of vegetables, and excessive alcohol intake also increased the odds of such dissatisfaction. The results suggest that improved living conditions and the adoption of healthy behaviors can help reduce misperceived negative body image among elderly.
Does the Clinical Form of Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) Influence the Oral Health–Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL)?
Authors: Daume Linda , Kreis Constance , Bohner Lauren , Kleinheinz Johannes , Jung Susanne
Published: September 2020

(1) Background: The aim of the study was to investigate the oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients with oral lichen planus (OLP) and to evaluate differences between the various clinical forms of OLP. Specifically, the differences in OHRQoL, physical pain levels and eating restriction were assessed; (2) Methods: One hundred and twelve patients with clinical and histological features of OLP from the Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery of the Münster University Hospital participated in this prospective study. OHRQoL was analysed by using the German short version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). Physical pain levels and restriction in eating were rated on visual analogue scales (VAS). The statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U-Test and the chi-squared test with a significance level at p = 0.05; (3) Results: Group 1 consisted of patients with reticular OLP (n = 50) and group 2 of patients with atrophic, erosive-ulcerative or bullous OLP (n = 62). The average OHIP-14 score was 13.54 points and differed significantly between the two groups. There were significant differences in the domains “physical pain”, “psychological discomfort”, “physical disability” and “social disability”. The VAS “physical pain” score and “restriction in eating” score varied significantly between the clinical forms. Positive correlations were found between the OHIP-14 total scores and the VAS scores; (4) Conclusion: The OHRQoL is significantly limited in patients with OLP; especially, patients with erosive-ulcerative OLP are affected.
Psychometric Properties of the Interpersonal Styles Questionnaire for Physical Education in a Mexican Sample
Authors: Duarte-Félix Héctor , Zamarripa Jorge , Baños Raúl , de la Cruz-Ortega Manuel , Delgado-Herrada Maritza
Published: September 2020

During physical education classes, one of the contextual factors that can influence motivation is the teacher’s interpersonal style. The aim of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties, structure, and factorial invariance across gender of the physical education teachers’ Interpersonal Styles Questionnaire of Sonora, Mexico. The participants were 500 students (50.8% boys, 49.2% girls) aged between 9 and 13 years old (mean age (Mage) = 10.72; standard deviation (SD) = 0.74) from different elementary schools of Sonora, Mexico. In terms of measuring the teacher’s interpersonal styles, the short version of the Learning Climate Questionnaire was used to measure autonomy support, whereas the Teacher Controllingness Scale was used to measure controlling style. The results support the structure and factorial invariance across gender groups of the Mexican version of the Interpersonal Styles Questionnaire for Physical Education (Cuestionario de Estilos Interpersonales en la Educación Física (CEI-EF, by its initials in Spanish)). In conclusion, the CEI-EF is a valid and reliable instrument that can be used to assess the teachers’ interpersonal styles and draw comparisons between groups of boys and girls.
The Contribution of Organised Leisure-Time Activities in Shaping Positive Community Health Practices among 13- and 15-Year-Old Adolescents: Results from the Health Behaviours in School-Aged Children Study in Italy
Authors: Borraccino Alberto , Lazzeri Giacomo , Kakaa Omar , Bad’ura Petr , Bottigliengo Daniele , Dalmasso Paola , Lemma Patrizia
Published: September 2020

Background and Objective: Participation in organised out-of-school leisure-time activities (OLTAs) has been shown to have a positive impact on community health practices and to lessen inequities in social and environmental opportunities among youths. According to the social capital theory, OLTAs foster bridging ties that allow individuals to forge new, wider-ranging social connections, increasing social integration and opportunities for identity-related exploration. This study aimed to describe participation in different types of OLTAs and its association with perceived life satisfaction, physical activity, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and drunkenness in a representative sample of youths. Methods: A representative sample of 11-, 13- and 15-year-old students (n = 47,799) was recruited throughout all Italian regions within the Italian 2013/2014 Health Behaviours in School-aged Children (HBSC) study. Data were collected according to the HBSC study protocol. Participants were compared on outcomes according to OLTA participation type (i.e., non-sport, sport-only, and mixed vs. no-OLTA). In accordance with the study sampling procedures, hierarchical logistic regression models were used. Results: Participation in OLTAs was significantly associated with high life satisfaction in all ages (sport-only: odds ratio (OR) = 1.67, 1.48 and 1.55 for 11- 13- and 15-year-olds; mixed: OR = 1.95, 1.60 and 1.45, respectively). Youths participating in OLTAs were more likely to meet physical activity recommendations and report lower rates of tobacco use and drunkenness. Conclusions: Participation in OLTAs showed a favourable impact on health behaviours. Thus, community organisations and clubs, whether supported by public investments, could contribute to the enhancement of beneficial health practices, by engaging and serving the community as a whole and further reducing inequities in both social and environmental opportunities.