bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety Verification of Driving Resource Occupancy Rules Based on Functional Language
Authors: Hu Zhixi , Zhu Yi , Chen Xiaoying , Zhao Yu
Published: February 2022

Autonomous driving is a safety-critical system, and the occupancy of its environmental resources affects the safety of autonomous driving. In view of the lack of safety verification of environmental resource occupation rules in autonomous driving, this paper proposes a verification method of automatic driving model based on functional language through CSPM. Firstly, the modeling and verification framework of an autopilot model based on CSPM is given. Secondly, the process algebra definition of CSPM is given. Thirdly, the typical single loop environment model in automatic driving is abstracted, and the mapping method from automatic driving model to CSP is described in detail for the automatic driving environment and the typical collision, overtaking, lane change and other scenes involved. Finally, the autopilot model of the single loop is mapped to CSPM, and the application effect of this method is discussed by using FDR tool. Experiments show that this method can verify the safety of autonomous driving resources, thereby improving the reliability of the autonomous driving model.
IoT Nodes Authentication and ID Spoofing Detection Based on Joint Use of Physical Layer Security and Machine Learning
Authors: Marabissi Dania , Mucchi Lorenzo , Stomaci Andrea
Published: February 2022

The wide variety of services and applications that shall be supported by future wireless systems will lead to a high amount of sensitive data exchanged via radio, thus introducing a significant challenge for security. Moreover, in new networking paradigms, such as the Internet of Things, traditional methods of security may be difficult to implement due to the radical change of requirements and constraints. In such contexts, physical layer security is a promising additional means to realize communication security with low complexity. In particular, this paper focuses on node authentication and spoofing detection in an actual wireless sensor network (WSN), where multiple nodes communicate with a sink node. Nodes are in fixed positions, but the communication channels varies due to the scatterers’ movement. In the proposed security framework, the sink node is able to perform a continuous authentication of nodes during communication based on wireless fingerprinting. In particular, a machine learning approach is used for authorized nodes classification by means of the identification of specific attributes of their wireless channel. Then classification results are compared with the node ID in order to detect if the message has been generated by a node other than its claimed source. Finally, in order to increase the spoofing detection performance in small networks, the use of low-complexity sentinel nodes is proposed here. Results show the good performance of the proposed method that is suitable for actual implementation in a WSN.
Effect of Different Smoke Vent Layouts on Smoke and Temperature Distribution in Single-Side Multi-Point Exhaust Tunnel Fires: A Case Study
Authors: Tao Liangliang , Zeng Yanhua
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a numerical model verified by a 1:10 small-scale model test was used to study the effect of different smoke vent layouts on fire characteristics and smoke exhaust efficiency. The results show that the total smoke spread length is shortest when four smoke vents are opened near the fire source. If there are more than four smoke vents, some of them will only inhale fresh air rather than smoke. More seriously, some smoke vents will promote the spread of toxic smoke farther. Under different smoke vent layout schemes, the maximum temperature shows the same change trend with the increase in smoke exhaust volume (first increasing and then decreasing). When there are four smoke vents, the temperature field is in a good range compared with other schemes. If four smoke vents are opened, the total smoke exhaust efficiency is highest, and exhaust rate has little influence on total exhaust efficiency. Total smoke exhaust efficiency of the tunnel is more than 93.7% under different exhaust volumes, and the maximum difference of total smoke exhaust efficiency is less than 1.5% under different exhaust volume of Case “4”. The exhaust volume has little influence on temperature decay beneath the ceiling, and a temperature attenuation model of a point exhaust tunnel with four smoke vents was proposed. For the single-side point exhaust tunnels, the number of smoke vents near the exhaust fan side shall not be more than that on the other side. Four smoke vents shall be opened in case of fire and the exhaust volume is 220 m³/s with HRR of 30 MW.
Downstream Approach Routes for the Purification and Recovery of Lactobionic Acid
Authors: Sarenkova Inga , Sáez-Orviz Sara , Rendueles Manuel , Ciprovica Inga , Zagorska Jelena , Díaz Mario
Published: February 2022

The successful development of a lactobionic acid (LBA) bioconversion process on an industrial scale demands the selection of appropriate downstream methodological approaches to achieve product purification once the bioconversion of LBA is completed. These approaches depend on the nature of the substrate available for LBA production, and their necessary implementation could constitute a drawback when compared to the lesser effort required in downstream approaches in the production of LBA obtained by chemical synthesis from refined lactose. Thus, the aim of this research is to separate LBA from an acid whey substrate after bioconversion with Pseudomonas taetrolens. Freeze drying, crystallization, adsorption with activated carbon, microfiltration, centrifugation, and precipitation with 96% (v/v) ethanol were carried out to separate and purify LBA. The closest product to commercial LBA was obtained using precipitation with ethanol, obtaining a white powder with 95 ± 2% LBA concentration. The procedure described in this paper could help to produce LBA on an industrial scale via microbial bioconversion from acid whey, developing a promising biotechnological approach for lactose conversion.
Evaluation of Techniques for Intensifying the Process of the Alcoholic Extraction of Coffee Ground Oil Using Ultrasound and a Pressurized Solvent
Authors: Toda Tatiane Akemi , Santana Ana Julia Morelli , Ferreira Julieta Adriana , Pallone Eliria Maria de Jesus Agnolon , Aguiar Claudio Lima de , Rodrigues Christianne Elisabete da Costa
Published: February 2022

Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) techniques were evaluated and compared with conventional extraction for obtaining spent coffee ground oil (SCGO). The use of absolute ethanol (ET0) and hydrated ethanol (ET6) as solvents, two levels of SCG mass ratio:solvent, 1:4 (U4) and 1:15 (U15), and ultrasound powers of 0, 200, 400, and 600 W were tested. ET0 and U15 resulted in higher extraction yields of SCGO (YSCGO, 82%). A positive effect of sonication on YSCGO was observed only for condition U4. UAE resulted in defatted solids (DS) with higher apparent density values, corroborating the increase in the amount of smaller diameter particles due to sonication. The micrographs showed changes in the surfaces of the solids from the UAE and PLE, although the crystalline structures of the DS were not altered. UAE and PLE, compared to conventional extraction, did not allow significant gains in terms of YSCGO and, consequently, in the number of contact stages in an extractor configured in cross-currents.
Right Fractional Sobolev Space via Riemann–Liouville Derivatives on Time Scales and an Application to Fractional Boundary Value Problem on Time Scales
Authors: Hu Xing , Li Yongkun
Published: February 2022

Using the concept of fractional derivatives of Riemann–Liouville on time scales, we first introduce right fractional Sobolev spaces and characterize them. Then, we prove the equivalence of some norms in the introduced spaces, and obtain their completeness, reflexivity, separability and some embeddings. Finally, as an application, we propose a recent method to study the existence of weak solutions of fractional boundary value problems on time scales by using variational methods and critical point theory, and, by constructing an appropriate variational setting, we obtain two existence results of the problem.
Existence Results for Coupled Nonlinear Sequential Fractional Differential Equations with Coupled Riemann–Stieltjes Integro-Multipoint Boundary Conditions
Authors: Alruwaily Ymnah , Ahmad Bashir , Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Alzaidi Ahmed S. M.
Published: February 2022

This paper is concerned with the existence of solutions for a fully coupled Riemann–Stieltjes, integro-multipoint, boundary value problem of Caputo-type sequential fractional differential equations. The given system is studied with the aid of the Leray–Schauder alternative and contraction mapping principle. A numerical example illustrating the abstract results is also presented.
Ionization-Gasdynamic Simulations of Wind-Blown Nebulae around Massive Stars
Authors: Dwarkadas Vikram V.
Published: February 2022

Using a code that employs a self-consistent method for computing the effects of photo-ionization on circumstellar gas dynamics, we model the formation of wind-driven nebulae around massive stars. We take into account changes in stellar properties and mass-loss over the star’s evolution. Our simulations show how various properties, such as the density and ionization fraction, change throughout the evolution of the star. The multi-dimensional simulations reveal the presence of strong ionization front instabilities in the main-sequence phase, similar to those seen in galactic ionization fronts. Hydrodynamic instabilities at the interfaces lead to the formation of filaments and clumps that are continually being stripped off and mixed with the low density interior. Even though the winds start out as completely radial, the spherical symmetry is quickly destroyed, and the shocked wind region is manifestly asymmetrical. The simulations demonstrate that it is important to include the effects of the photoionizing photons from the star, and simulations that do not include this may fail to reproduce the observed density profile and ionization structure of wind-blown bubbles around massive stars.
Mixed Micellization, Thermodynamic and Adsorption Behavior of Tetracaine Hydrochloride in the Presence of Cationic Gemini/Conventional Surfactants
Authors: Azum Naved , Rub Malik Abdul , Khan Anish , Alotaibi Maha M. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Rahman Mohammed M.
Published: February 2022

In this approach, tensiometry and UV-visible techniques are used to determine the effect of cationic gemini and conventional surfactants on tetracaine hydrochloride (TCH), an anesthetic drug. We have estimated micellar, interfacial, and energetic constraints. To gain a deep understanding of their mixed association behavior, the outputs were examined using different theoretical models. The critical micelle concentration for single and mixed amphiphiles was estimated. The cmc values of mixed amphiphiles were found between the individual amphiphiles due to strong attractive interaction (synergism) between the components after mixing. The non-ideal behavior of mixtures was confirmed by the larger values of ideal cmc than the experimental cmc values. The negative values of interaction parameter (β) and values of activity coefficients less than unity indicate strong synergistic interaction between drug and surfactant. The stability of the mixed systems is demonstrated by the negative Gibbs free energy of micellization and excess free energy of micellization. In contrast to a single chain surfactant, a double chain surfactant (gemini) exhibits better interactions with the drug. Spectral measurements (UV-visible spectra) were used to monitor the binding of the drug with surfactant (conventional as well as gemini). Studying these mixed aggregates could help to optimize their compositions and find synergistic properties between TCH monomers and surfactants.
Multi-Level Analysis and Identification of Tumor Mutational Burden Genes across Cancer Types
Authors: Wang Shuangkuai , Tong Yuantao , Zong Hui , Xu Xuewen , Crabbe M. James C. , Wang Ying , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: February 2022

Tumor mutational burden (TMB) is considered a potential biomarker for predicting the response and effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, there are still inconsistent standards of gene panels using next-generation sequencing and poor correlation between the TMB genes, immune cell infiltrating, and prognosis. We applied text-mining technology to construct specific TMB-associated gene panels cross various cancer types. As a case exploration, Pearson’s correlation between TMB genes and immune cell infiltrating was further analyzed in colorectal cancer. We then performed LASSO Cox regression to construct a prognosis predictive model and calculated the risk score of each sample for receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The results showed that the assessment of TMB gene panels performed well with fewer than 500 genes, highly mutated genes, and the inclusion of synonymous mutations and immune regulatory and drug-target genes. Moreover, the analysis of TMB differentially expressed genes (DEGs) suggested that JAKMIP1 was strongly correlated with the gene expression level of CD8+ T cell markers in colorectal cancer. Additionally, the prognosis predictive model based on 19 TMB DEGs reached AUCs of 0.836, 0.818, and 0.787 in 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS models, respectively (C-index: 0.810). In summary, the gene panel performed well and TMB DEGs showed great potential value in immune cell infiltration and in predicting survival.
Transcriptomics-Based Identification of Genes Related to Tapetum Degradation and Microspore Development in Lily
Authors: Sui Juanjuan , Jia Wenjie , Xin Yin , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: February 2022

Lily is a popular and economically ornamental crop around the world. However, its high production of pollen grains causes serious problems to consumers, including allergies and staining of clothes. During anther development, the tapetum is a crucial step for pollen formation and microspore release. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanism of tapetum degradation and microspore development in lily where free pollen contamination occurs. Here, we used the cut lily cultivar ‘Siberia’ to characterize the process of tapetum degradation through the use of cytology and transcriptomic methods. The cytological observation indicated that, as the lily buds developed from 4 cm (Lo 4 cm) to 8 cm (Lo 8 cm), the tapetum completed the degradation process and the microspores matured. Furthermore, by comparing the transcriptome profiling among three developmental stages (Lo 4 cm, Lo 6 cm and Lo 8 cm), we identified 27 differentially expressed genes. These 27 genes were classed into 4 groups by function, namely, cell division and expansion, cell-wall morphogenesis, transcription factors, LRR-RLK (leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinases), plant hormone biosynthesis and transduction. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed as validation of the transcriptome data. These selected genes are candidate genes for the tapetum degradation and microspore development of lily and our work provides a theoretical basis for breeding new lily cultivars without pollen.
Correction: Liao et al. Twelve-Week Lower Trapezius-Centred Muscular Training Regimen in University Archers. Healthcare 2022, 10, 171
Authors: Liao Chien-Nan , Fan Chun-Hao , Hsu Wei-Hsiu , Chang Chia-Fang , Yu Pei-An , Kuo Liang-Tseng , Lu Bo-Ling , Hsu Robert Wen-Wei
Published: February 2022

The authors would like to make the following corrections to the published paper [...]
New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation Is a Risk Factor of Ischemic Stroke in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Liu Chi-Chun , Chen Yu-Hsuan , Chang Yin-Han , Chien Wu-Chien , Lin Hui-Chen , Cheng Chun-Gu , Cheng Chun-An
Published: February 2022

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) induces atrial fibrillation (AF) and stroke, and COPD with AF increased ischemic stroke (IS) in a cross-sectional study. Therefore, healthcare providers must be concerned and well-informed about this particular situation. For this study, inpatient data were obtained from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database in 2010. We identified patients who were hospitalized with COPD (International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification [ICD-9-CM] is 491, 492, and 496). Patients who experienced AF (ICD-9-CM to 427.3) during the same admission or after COPD hospitalization were discharged and defined as new-onset AF. The outcome was IS (ICD-9-CM as 433–437). The factors related to IS after COPD were used for multivariate logistic regression. There were 4177/62,163 (6.72%) patients with incident IS. The risk of IS after COPD hospitalization was shown to have an adjusted odds ratio of 1.749 (95% CI: 1.584–1.93, p < 0.001) for patients with new-onset AF. Other factors included advanced age, atherosclerosis factors, comorbidity severity, sepsis and lower-level hospital admission. In conclusion, COPD patients suffering from new-onset AF had an increased incidence of IS in the population observation study. New-onset AF was an omit risk factor for IS in COPD in the Chinese population.
The Association of Persistent Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety with Recurrent Acute Coronary Syndrome Events: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Alhurani Abdullah S. , Hamdan-Mansour Ayman M. , Ahmad Muayyad M. , McKee Gabrielle , O’Donnell Sharon , O’Brien Frances , Mooney Mary , Saleh Zyad T. , Moser Debra K.
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine the role of persistent symptoms of depression and anxiety in a second acute coronary syndrome (ACS) event. Data presented in this study were from an RCT study. A follow-up for 24 months after baseline to detect a second ACS event among 1162 patients from five hospitals. Hierarchal Cox regression analyses were used. The results showed that persistent depression only (HR 2.27; 95% CI: 1.35–3.81; p = 0.002), and comorbid persistent depression and anxiety (HR 2.03; 95% CI: 1.03–3.98; p = 0.040) were the significant predictors of a second ACS event. Secondary education level compared to primary educational level (HR 0.63; 95% CI: 0.43–0.93; p = 0.020) and college or more education level compared to primary educational level (HR 0.47; 95% CI: 0.27–0.84; p = 0.011) were the only demographic variables that were significant predictors of a second event. The study reveals that attention must be paid by healthcare providers to assess and manage persistent depression; particularly when it is co-morbid with anxiety.
Effects of Metribuzin Herbicide on Some Morpho-Physiological Characteristics of Two Echinacea Species
Authors: Karimmojeni Hassan , Rezaei Mohammad , Tseng Te-Ming , Mastinu Andrea
Published: February 2022

Echinacea is a perennial plant that is used for its phytotherapeutic potential. Echinacea crops are often affected by invasive weeds. One of the most effective strategies in weed control is the use of chemicals such as herbicides. However, herbicides also affect the physiological and morphological processes of Echinacea. For this reason, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of different dosages (0, 250, 500, 750, 1000, and 1250 g ha−1) of the postemergent herbicide metribuzin on some morphological and physiological characteristics of Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia collected from different locations in Iran (E. purpurea from the Shiraz and Isfahan regions and E. angustifolia from the Ardestan and Kazerun regions). Application of metribuzin decreased leaf dry weight for both Echinacea species at high doses (750 and 1250 g ha−1). At high metribuzin dose (1250 g ha−1), E. purpurea Shiraz leaves showed an increase in MDA (malondialdehyde) up to 9.14, while in other species the MDA content was lower. Minimum and maximum fluorescence increased at both the registered dosage (500 g ha−1) and at high doses (750–1250 g ha−1) of metribuzin treatments in both species. The Fv/Fm (maximum quantum yield) value was reduced in herbicide treated species, compared to the control, starting at the 250 g ha−1 dose, and was lowest at 750 g ha−1 dose. The results of this study indicate that metribuzin has adverse effects on the physiology and morphology of Echinacea species at dosages above 500 g ha−1.
The Renewable Hydrogen–Methane (RHYME) Transportation Fuel: A Practical First Step in the Realization of the Hydrogen Economy
Authors: Ingersoll John G.
Published: February 2022

The permanent introduction of green hydrogen into the energy economy would require that a discriminating selection be made of its use in the sectors where its value is optimal in terms of relative cost and life cycle reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Consequently, hydrogen can be used as an energy storage medium when intermittent wind and solar power exceed certain penetration in the grid, likely above 40%, and in road transportation right away, to begin displacing gasoline and diesel fuels. To this end, the proposed approach is to utilize current technologies represented by PHEV in light-duty and HEV in heavy-duty vehicles, where a high-performance internal combustion engine is used with a fuel comprised of 15–20% green hydrogen and 85–89% green methane depending on vehicle type. This fuel, designated as RHYME, takes advantage of the best attributes of hydrogen and methane, results in lower life cycle carbon dioxide emissions than BEVs or FCEVs and offers a cost-effective and pragmatic approach, both locally as well as globally, in establishing hydrogen as part of the energy economy over the next ten to thirty years.
Associations between Biomarkers of Metal Exposure and Dry Eye Metrics in Shipyard Welders: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Liou Ying-Hsi , Chen Ying-Jen , Chen Wei-Liang , Li Kuan-Ying , Chou Ting-Yu , Huang Yung-Chi , Wang Chung-Ching , Lai Ching-Huang
Published: February 2022

Shipyard welders are often exposed to welding metal fumes. Ocular surfaces are continually exposed to environmental hazards. However, limited information on the associations between metal exposure and dry eye metrics in occupational settings is available. This study employed a cross-sectional design that involved the participation of 59 welders and 25 administrative staff in a shipyard in northern Taiwan from September 2020 to October 2020. The participants’ individual information, laboratory data, exposure to particulate matter < 2.5 μm, urinary, and toenail metal concentrations were collected. Dry eye metrics were evaluated using standardized questionnaires and a noninvasive ocular surface analyzer. Urinary V and Cr and toenail V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Zn, As, and Cd and Pb were significantly higher in the exposed group than in the control group. After adjustment for confounding factors, dry eye metrics were associated with urinary Cd (β = 0.407; p = 0.007) and toenail Pb (β = 0.482; p = 0.002). The participants with higher urinary Cd exhibited higher odds ratios for elevated dry eye metrics. Our study revealed that exposure to welding procedures increases several metal biomarkers. In addition, urinary Cd, and toenail Pb might be related to dry eye disease in shipyard welders.
Advancing Behavioral Intervention and Theory Development for Mobile Health: The HeartSteps II Protocol
Authors: Spruijt-Metz Donna , Marlin Benjamin M. , Pavel Misha , Rivera Daniel E. , Hekler Eric , De La Torre Steven , El Mistiri Mohamed , Golaszweski Natalie M. , Li Cynthia , Braga De Braganca Rebecca , Tung Karine , Kha Rachael , Klasnja Predrag
Published: February 2022

Background: Recent advances in mobile and wearable technologies have led to new forms of interventions, called “Just-in-Time Adaptive Interventions” (JITAI). JITAIs interact with the individual at the most appropriate time and provide the most appropriate support depending on the continuously acquired Intensive Longitudinal Data (ILD) on participant physiology, behavior, and contexts. These advances raise an important question: How do we model these data to better understand and intervene on health behaviors? The HeartSteps II study, described here, is a Micro-Randomized Trial (MRT) intended to advance both intervention development and theory-building enabled by the new generation of mobile and wearable technology. Methods: The study involves a year-long deployment of HeartSteps, a JITAI for physical activity and sedentary behavior, with 96 sedentary, overweight, but otherwise healthy adults. The central purpose is twofold: (1) to support the development of modeling approaches for operationalizing dynamic, mathematically rigorous theories of health behavior; and (2) to serve as a testbed for the development of learning algorithms that JITAIs can use to individualize intervention provision in real time at multiple timescales. Discussion and Conclusions: We outline an innovative modeling paradigm to model and use ILD in real- or near-time to individually tailor JITIAs.
COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown and Wellbeing: Experiences from Aotearoa New Zealand in 2020
Authors: Officer Tara , Imlach Fiona , McKinlay Eileen , Kennedy Jonathan , Pledger Megan , Russell Lynne , Churchward Marianna , Cumming Jacqueline , McBride-Henry Karen
Published: February 2022

In 2020, in the first COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, Aotearoa New Zealand consistently maintained stringent public health measures including stay-at-home lockdowns and distancing responses. Considering the widespread disruption to social functioning caused by the pandemic, this paper aimed to explore environmental and social factors that influenced the wellbeing of individuals during the first lockdown in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our mixed-methods study involved a survey (n = 1010) and semi-structured interviews of a subset of surveyed individuals undertaken at the tail end of the first 2020 lockdown. Survey participants were recruited through social media-driven snowball sampling, less than 50% were aged under 45 years and 85% identified as female. Of those interviewed, 63% identified as female. Qualitative interview findings and open-ended survey results were analysed thematically. Participants described a variety of factors influencing wellbeing, largely related to the community and household; physical, behavioural, and lifestyle factors; access to health services; and social and economic foundations. While much of the focus of COVID-19 recovery was on reversing the economic and physical toll of the pandemic, our findings emphasise the need to empower individuals, families, and communities to mitigate the pandemic’s negative implications on wellbeing.
Reducing the Physical Burden of Older Persons’ Household Caregivers: The Effect of Household Handrail Provision
Authors: Phetsitong Ruttana , Vapattanawong Patama
Published: February 2022

The household handrail is necessary for dependent older people to perform their daily living activities, improve caregiving competency, and reduce caregiver burden. This study aimed to explore physical burden levels and examine their association with handrail provision among caregivers in older people’s households in Phuttamonthon District, Thailand, in 2017. This study used the physical dimension of the Caregiver Burden Inventory to quantify the levels of physical burden among 254 caregivers in households with a dependent older person. It classified the studied households into three categories: no handrail, one handrail, and more than one handrail. The analysis employed the ordinal logistic model approach. The findings showed that the mean physical burden score was 5 ± 3.85, indicating a high burden. After adjusting for potential factors, the caregivers in older people’s households with one handrail were less likely to experience a high physical burden than those without a handrail (OR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.14–0.67). Nonetheless, the analysis found no significant differences in physical burden between caregivers of households with more than one handrail and those of households with no handrails. Having handrails in housing might enhance older people’s ability to adjust to disability and illness, ultimately reducing the physical care burden of caregivers. However, having the appropriate number of handrails in older people’s households should be considered.
Does Prenatal Physical Activity Affect the Occurrence of Postnatal Anxiety and Depression? Longitudinal Study
Authors: Baran Joanna , Kalandyk-Osinko Katarzyna , Baran Rafał
Published: February 2022

The aim of the foregoing study was to assess whether physical activity during pregnancy affects the occurrence of anxiety and depression during pregnancy, postpartum and 6 months following childbirth. This study tried to answer the following questions: How was the incidence of depression and anxiety different in the pre- and postpartum periods? What intensity level of physical activity protects against the symptoms of anxiety and depression? Does the time spent engaged in sedentary activities and MVPA affect the occurrence of depression and anxiety before and after childbirth? The study group under analysis consisted of 187 women aged 19–41 years. The research was conducted between April 2016 and November 2020. The study was divided into four stages: T0—qualification to participate in the study; T1—medical history acquisition, consisting of a short questionnaire and two long questionnaires (the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7)), as well as an assessment of 7-day physical activity using Actigraph accelerometers during the pregnancy; T2—the completion of the EPDS and GAD-7 questionnaires after the birth; T3—the completion of the EPDS and GAD-7 questionnaire 6 months after giving birth. The obtained results were statistically processed in the Statistica 13.3 software package. A significance level of p < 0.05 was assumed. The highest percentage of depression occurred immediately after the delivery, followed by 6 months after delivery, and the smallest number of women suffered from depression before the birth (p < 0.001). The analysis of correlations of physical activity with anxiety symptoms did not show significant correlations. However, the situation is different in the case of depression symptoms. Women taking fewer steps before delivery showed a greater tendency to develop depressive symptoms before, immediately after and 6 months after the delivery (p < 0.001). Women who were less active (took fewer steps per day, spent less time in moderate-to-vigorous physical (MVPA) activities or spent more time being sedentary) showed symptoms of depression on the EPDS scale. It appeared that those with severe anxiety symptoms had the highest sedentary time scores before the delivery (p = 0.020). Reduced physical activity promotes the onset of postnatal depression, while being active reduces this risk. Interestingly, even light physical activity “protects” against the occurrence of depression and is better than sedentary activities. Such clear conclusions cannot be drawn in relation to anxiety symptoms. Sedentary behaviour may promote anxiety symptoms immediately after childbirth, but this study should be continued in order to confirm it during other time periods.
Functional and Psychological Changes after Exercise Training in Post-COVID-19 Patients Discharged from the Hospital: A PRISMA-Compliant Systematic Review
Authors: Ahmadi Hekmatikar Amir Hossein , Ferreira Júnior João Batista , Shahrbanian Shahnaz , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: February 2022

Millions of people worldwide are infected with COVID-19, and COVID-19 survivors have been found to suffer from functional disabilities and mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. This is a matter of concern because COVID-19 is still not over. Because reinfection is still possible in COVID-19 survivors, decreased physical function and increased stress and anxiety can lower immune function. However, the optimal exercise intensity and volume appear to remain unknown. Therefore, the current systematic review aimed to evaluate the effect of resistance or aerobic exercises in post-COVID-19 patients after hospital discharge. We conducted searches in the Scopus, SciELO, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases. Studies that met the following criteria were included: (i) English language, (ii) patients with COVID-19 involved with resistance or aerobic exercise programs after hospital discharge. Out of 381 studies reviewed, seven studies met the inclusion criteria. Evidence shows that exercise programs composed of resistance exercise (e.g., 1–2 sets of 8–10 repetitions at 30–80% of 1RM) along with aerobic exercise (e.g., 5 to 30 min at moderate intensity) may improve the functional capacity and quality of life (reduce stress and mental disorders) in post-COVID-19 patients. In addition, only one study reported reinfection of three subjects involved with the exercise program, suggesting that exercise programs may be feasible for the rehabilitation of the patients. A meta-analysis was not conducted because the included studies have methodological heterogeneities, and they did not examine a control group. Consequently, the results should be generalized with caution.
Multisystem Amyloidosis in a Coal Miner with Silicosis: Is Exposure to Silica Dust a Cause of Amyloid Deposition?
Authors: Gołębiowski Tomasz , Kuźniar Jakub , Porażko Tomasz , Wojtala Renata , Konieczny Andrzej , Krajewska Magdalena , Klinger Marian
Published: February 2022

The over-secretion of monoclonal immunoglobulin light chains by clonal B cells followed by the aggregation and extracellular deposition of fibrillar deposits are responsible forthe clinical course AL amyloidosis. It is well documented that silica significantly increases the number of immunoglobulin-secreting cells. In the present paper, we report on a coal miner with silicosis and fast progressing primary amyloidosis with predominantly heart, kidney, and lung manifestations. Severeheart failure due to myocardial hypertrophy resulted in the patient’s death. We conclude that long-term environmental silica exposure and silica deposition may contribute to the development of monoclonal gammopathy and amyloidosis due to chronic stimulus and the dysregulation of the immune system.
Risk of Fall-Related Injuries Associated with Antidepressant Use in Elderly Patients: A Nationwide Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Jung Yu-Seon , Suh David , Choi Hang-Seok , Park Hee-Deok , Jung Sun-Young , Suh Dong-Churl
Published: February 2022

Previous studies have reported a higher risk of falls among tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) users compared to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) users, yet SSRIs are known as a safer antidepressant class for use in older adults. This study examined the effects of antidepressant use on the risk of fall-related injuries after classifying antidepressant drugs, polypharmacy, and central nervous system (CNS) drugs by therapeutic classes and identifying factors influencing risk of fall-related injuries. A retrospective matched cohort study based on propensity scores was conducted among older adults, aged 70–89 years, who initiated antidepressant use between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2014 using the national health insurance system senior cohort in Korea. The proportional hazard Cox regression model was used to examine the association between fall-related injuries and antidepressants. The subgroup analyses were performed to assess the risk of fall-related injuries by the number of concurrently administered medications, therapeutic classes of antidepressants, and CNS class medications. This study found that duloxetine, escitalopram, paroxetine, amitriptyline, imipramine, and trazodone significantly increased the risk of fall-related injuries in older adults. When antidepressants were prescribed to older adults, prescribers carefully considered factors including the dose, number of concurrently administered medications, and therapeutic classes of CNS.
An Analysis of the Willingness to the COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Shots among Urban Employees: Evidence from a Megacity H in Eastern China
Authors: Hu Tianzhen , Li Li , Lin Chuanxue , Yang Zikun , Chow Cheng , Lu Zhipeng , You Chen
Published: February 2022

Many studies have shown that urban workers may have a higher acceptance rate of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine uptake compared to their rural counterparts. As Omicron spreads globally, the COVID-19 booster vaccination has been acknowledged as the primary strategy against this variant. In this study, we identify factors related to the willingness of workers in megacities to take the vaccine booster shots and their main reasons accounting for their booster willingness. This research survey was conducted in megacity H in eastern China, and a total of 1227 employees from different industries were interviewed. The study at hand examines the relationship between various characteristics (including both economic and non-economic factors) of urban employees and their intention/desire to accept the COVID-19 booster shoots. The survey results show that some characteristics, namely work organization, vaccine knowledge, and social network, affect their intention to take COVID-19 vaccine booster shots. Urban employees with a strong work organization, a high degree of vaccine knowledge, and a dense social capital are more likely to receive booster injections than other employees. Therefore, work organization, vaccine knowledge, and social networks provide fundamental entry points for designing enhanced injection strategies to increase the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines among employees in megacities.
Injuries and Overuse Injuries in Show Jumping—A Retrospective Epidemiological Cross-Sectional Study of Show Jumpers in Germany
Authors: Meyer Heinz-Lothar , Scheidgen Philip , Polan Christina , Beck Paula , Mester Bastian , Kauther Max Daniel , Dudda Marcel , Burggraf Manuel
Published: February 2022

This retrospective cross-sectional epidemiological study deals with sport-specific injury patterns in show jumping. A total of 363 show jumpers of all levels (S) answered a retrospective questionnaire about injuries and overuse damages which occurred in the course of their careers. Demographic data and information on injuries in various body regions were collected. In addition to descriptive analysis, significance tests were performed. For better statistical comparability with other sports, exposure time was extrapolated with total career duration and weekly training hours, and injuries per 1000 jumping hours were calculated. The study included 251 (69%) women and 112 (31%) men, who were on average 26.9 ± 10.9 years old. The injury rate for the entire collective was 3.7 per 1000 h of exposure. The most frequently affected body region was the head (31%). Overuse complaints play a subordinate role and mainly affect the upper extremities (65%). The riders of the professional lower performance levels are less likely to injure themselves per 1000 h than riders of the higher performance levels. Riders who often or always wore a helmet suffered significantly fewer head injuries (p = 0.008) and had a significantly lower total injury duration than riders who did not wear a helmet (p = 0.006). Similarly, the study showed that riders who often or always wore a safety vest suffered significantly fewer spinal injuries (p = 0.017) and had significantly fewer injuries per 1000 riding hours (p = 0.031) than riders who did not wear a safety vest. Based on the present results, there should be an extension of the general helmet requirement and a requirement to wear safety vests in show jumping in general.
Assessment of Fish Quality Based on the Content of Heavy Metals
Authors: Łuczyńska Joanna , Pietrzak-Fiećko Renata , Purkiewicz Aleksandra , Łuczyński Marek Jan
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to estimate the fish quality in terms of the Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn contents. The research material was the muscle tissue of the fish crucian carp (Carassius carassius Linnaeus, 1758), flounder (Platichthys flesus Linnaeus, 1758), Gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata Linnaeus, 1758), mackerel (Scomber scombrus Linnaeus, 1758), Blue grenadier (Macruronus novaezelandiae Hector, 1871), rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum, 1792), tench (Tinca tinca Linnaeus, 1758), tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus, 1758), Walleye pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus Pallas, 1814) and perch (Perca fluviatilis Linnaeus, 1758.). Heavy metals were determined with the atomic absorption spectrometry method (AAS). Significantly high concentrations of zinc (19.52 mg/kg wet weight), copper (0.77 mg/kg) and iron (6.95 mg/kg) were found in the muscles of crucian carp (p < 0.05) compared to the other fish studied, whereas Walleye pollock had a higher content of manganese (0.266 mg/kg) (p < 0.05). All studied fish species do not pose a threat to humans from these four metals. This was indicated by quality indexes (THQ and HI) whose values were below one. The values of these metals also did not exceed the maximum allowable concentrations established by the FAO (1983), but monitoring both the aquatic environment and the fish living there is necessary, for example, for the time-changing abiotic and biotic factors that can cause an increase in metals in the organs of fish.
The Moderating Effect of Social Support between Loneliness and Depression: Differences between the Young-Old and the Old-Old
Authors: Son Hyegyeong , Cho Heeran J. , Cho Sunghwan , Ryu Juhyun , Kim Sunghee
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to investigate the moderation of social support in the association between loneliness and depression in different age groups of older adults. The sample consisted of 1532 community-dwelling adults aged 65 years or older, based on the data from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP), Wave 3 (2015–2016). Eleven items of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) were used to measure depressive symptoms. Similarly, a four-item scale was used to measure social support (each from spouse and family), and a three-item scale for loneliness. The results were as follows. Loneliness was associated with depression in both the young-old and the old-old groups. Spousal support and family support were associated with reduced depression in the young-old group, whereas only spousal support was associated with relieving depression in the old-old group. Social support had a significant moderating effect on the relationship between loneliness and depression in the old-old group, whereas it had no significant effect in the young-old group. From these results, it can be concluded that spousal support plays a significant role in seniors’ mental health. The role of caregivers for a person’s well-being grows later in life, so practitioners could help couples communicate with this consideration. In addition, regular contacts with family members and spousal support are recommended to prevent older old adults’ depression.
Public Awareness of Consumer Products Containing Radioactive Materials: Empirical Evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Sulaiman Zuraidah , Ahmad Sugiran Hanis Syuhada , Hasbullah Nornajihah Nadia , Mas’od Adaviah , Hashim Suhairul , Bradley David Andrew
Published: February 2022

The emergence of online purchase platforms makes products containing radioactive materials more accessible to consumers. These products are gaining popularity and are widely available and easily accessible in the market today. This study examined how consumer’s psychological factors affect their decision of purchasing products containing radioactive materials in the market. Based on the protective action decision model (PADM) and the heuristic-systematic model (HSM), this study proposed a model to add to the literature on consumer awareness of risky products. In particular, this study investigated which type of regulatory focus message (promotion-focused advertisement or prevention-focused advertisement) is significant in moderating the effects of radiation safety knowledge and product knowledge on risk perception when purchasing products containing radioactive materials. The relationship between consumers’ risk perception and information seeking, which leads to the purchase intention of such products was also investigated. Advertisements with varying regulatory focus messages were randomly distributed to participants to determine whether consumers are more influenced by promotion-focused advertisement or prevention-focused advertisement to mitigate the risk of purchasing products containing radioactive materials. The results revealed that promotion-focused advertising messages evoked a positive effect on consumers’ radiation safety knowledge and product knowledge toward risk perception. However, prevention-focused regulatory advertising messages did not moderate the relationships between both radiation safety knowledge and product knowledge on consumers’ risk perception. This study offers guidelines for manufacturers, sellers, and marketers of products containing radioactive materials, and, importantly, for the government to devise strategies in designing effective social marketing advertisement for business, environmental and societal benefits.
Healthcare Professionals’ Perceptions of Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors in Pregnant Migrant Women and the Potential of a Digital Support Tool—A Qualitative Study
Authors: Söderström Emmie , Müssener Ulrika , Löfgren Mikaela , Sandell Linnea , Thomas Kristin , Löf Marie
Published: February 2022

Eating healthily and being physically active during pregnancy are important for maternal and offspring health. Maternity healthcare is a key arena for health promotion; however, 20% of pregnant women in Sweden are foreign-born, which may reduce reach due to language and cultural barriers. The aims of this study were to explore healthcare professionals’ perceptions about (a) promoting health behaviors (i.e., healthy diet, physical activity, and weight gain) among Arabic- and Somali-speaking pregnant women and (b) how a translated version of the previously evaluated Swedish app (HealthyMoms) can be tailored and used as a tool in their clinical work. Healthcare professionals in Swedish maternity care (n = 14) were interviewed. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Healthcare professionals expressed challenges in health promotion work, including cultural and educational aspects and low awareness of health behaviors among women themselves and their social environment. Further, a lack of resources within the clinical practice and a need for cultural awareness among healthcare professionals were highlighted. Finally, it was perceived that a translated app has potential to provide basic and culturally adjusted information, facilitate communication and thus has potential to become a helpful tool in maternity care to support healthy lifestyle behaviors in Arabic- and Somali-speaking pregnant women.