bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Downstream Transport of Geosmin Based on Harmful Cyanobacterial Outbreak Upstream in a Reservoir Cascade
Authors: Shin Jae-Ki , Park Yongeun , Kim Nan-Young , Hwang Soon-Jin
Published: August 2022

Understanding water quality events in a multiple-impoundment series is important but seldom presented comprehensively. Therefore, this study was conducted to systematically understand the explosion event of geosmin (GSM) in the North Han River (Chuncheon, Soyang, Euiam, and Cheongpyeong Reservoirs) and Han River (Paldang Reservoir), which consists of a cascade reservoir series, the largest drinking water source system in South Korea. We investigated the spatiotemporal relationship of harmful cyanobacterial blooms in the upstream reservoir (Euiam) with the water quality incident event caused by the GSM in the downstream reservoir (Paldang) from January to December 2011. The harmful cyanobacterial bloom occurred during August–September under a high water temperature (>20 °C) after a heavy-rainfall-based flood runoff event. The high chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentration in the upper Euiam Reservoir was prolonged for two months with a maximum concentration of 1150.5 mg m−3, in which the filamentous Dolichospermum circinale Kütz dominated the algal community at a rate of >99%. These parameters remarkably decreased (17.3 mg Chl-a m−3) in October 2011 when the water temperature decreased (5 °C) and soluble reactive phosphorus was depleted. However, high and unprecedented GSM concentrations, with a maximum value of 1640 ng L−1, were detected in the downstream reservoirs (Cheongpyeong and Paldang); the level was 11 times higher than the value (10 ng L−1) recommended by the World Health Organization. The concentrations of GSM gradually decreased and had an adverse effect on the drinking water quality until the end of December 2011. Our study indicated that the time lag between the summer–fall cyanobacterial outbreak in the upstream reservoir and winter GSM explosion events in the downstream reservoirs could be attributed to the transport and release of GSM through the effluent from hydroelectric power generation in this multiple-reservoir system. Therefore, we suggest that a structural understanding of the reservoir cascade be considered during water quality management of drinking water sources to avoid such incidents in the future.
Are Lockdowns Effective in Managing Pandemics?
Authors: Yanovskiy Moshe , Socol Yehoshua
Published: August 2022

The present coronavirus crisis caused a major worldwide disruption which has not been experienced for decades. The lockdown-based crisis management was implemented by nearly all the countries, and studies confirming lockdown effectiveness can be found alongside the studies questioning it. In this work, we performed a narrative review of the works studying the above effectiveness, as well as the historic experience of previous pandemics and risk-benefit analysis based on the connection of health and wealth. Our aim was to learn lessons and analyze ways to improve the management of similar events in the future. The comparative analysis of different countries showed that the assumption of lockdowns’ effectiveness cannot be supported by evidence—neither regarding the present COVID-19 pandemic, nor regarding the 1918–1920 Spanish Flu and other less-severe pandemics in the past. The price tag of lockdowns in terms of public health is high: by using the known connection between health and wealth, we estimate that lockdowns may claim 20 times more life years than they save. It is suggested therefore that a thorough cost-benefit analysis should be performed before imposing any lockdown for either COVID-19 or any future pandemic.
The Effects of Eccentric Contraction Execution Time on the Properties of the Patellar Tendon
Authors: Martínez Fernando , Abián Pablo , Jiménez Fernando , Abián-Vicén Javier
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of eccentric contraction execution time on the morphological and elastic properties of the patellar tendon (PT) in a six-week, single-leg decline squat (SLDS) exercise training program. In addition, the effects of a six-week detraining period on the same variables were evaluated. Fifty participants were randomized into the control group (CG; n = 15), experimental group 1 (EG6s; n = 17; eccentric contraction execution time = 6 s) and experimental group 2 (EG3s; n = 18; eccentric contraction execution time = 3 s). The thickness and elastographic index (EI) in different regions of interest (ROIs) in the PT were measured after 6 weeks of eccentric training using the single-leg decline squat exercise (three sessions per week, 80% of the eccentric one-repetition maximum) and after 6 weeks of detraining. There was an increase in the thickness of the PT in the different ROIs analyzed in both experimental groups at the end of the training period. Especially worth noting was the increase in the thickness of the PT at the proximal level in EG3s (p = 0.001), and the increase at the distal level in EG6s (p = 0.001). On the other hand, there was a reduction in EI in EG6S at the end of the intervention program (p = 0.021), and both experimental groups increased EI in the three regions of interest analyzed after the detraining period (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the execution time of the eccentric contraction in the SLDS exercise determines the anatomical level of the morphological adaptations in the PT. These morphological adaptations are lost after 6 weeks of detraining, producing an increase in tendon stiffness.
Examining Risk Factors in the Cannabis–Suicide Link: Considering Trauma and Impulsivity among University Students
Authors: Daneshmend Ayeila Z. B. , Stewart Jayme , Jarkas Dana A. , Franklyn Sabina I. , Gabrys Robert L. , Patterson Zachary R. , Abizaid Alfonso , Hellemans Kim G. C. , McQuaid Robyn J.
Published: August 2022

Cannabis is a commonly used substance among university students that may have several negative health repercussions, including suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempts (SA). The factors that contribute to or help explain this relation remain uncertain. Earlier negative experiences, especially trauma encountered during early life, have been associated with the development of psychopathology upon later stressor encounters. In the current study, we examined the associations between SI and SA with problematic cannabis use among young adults and the role of earlier trauma experiences and trait impulsiveness in understanding this link. Among university students (N = 539), problematic cannabis use was moderately related to lifetime and past-12-months suicidal ideation and attempts. Impulsiveness mediated the relationship between problematic cannabis use and lifetime SI and SA. Moreover, previous life trauma moderated the relationship between problematic cannabis use and SA, such that the association between problematic cannabis use and SA was stronger among those who experienced high levels of trauma. These findings highlight behavioral and environmental factors that could predict suicide ideation and attempts among young cannabis users. Accordingly, trait impulsiveness and early trauma experiences should be considered, alongside problematic cannabis use, in suicide-risk detection and prevention strategies among young adults.
A Novel Block Chain Method for Urban Digitization Governance in Birth Registration Field: A Case Study
Authors: Shi Jihui , Danquah Solomon Kwadwo Nyedu , Dong Wanhao
Published: August 2022

Even though digitization is widely recognized as one of the most imperative trends in achieving effective urban governance, digital infrastructure remains far from the global trend in many African countries. This paper proposes a novel, resilient data manipulation architecture model called the Birth Notification Verification Model (BNVM) using blockchain and smart contracts. The proposed solution was evaluated in a real-world use case scenario in Ghana. The model, which is based on the Ten Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) Framework, focuses on the initial inputs for birth registration at the birth notification level. The approach presented in this study paves the way for the creation of decentralized, secure, transparent, and automated systems for civil registration. The application of a smart contract architecture that blends a centralized design with an on-chain and off-chain architecture is further supported by this, providing more evidence of its viability. It offers a safe verification framework for the Ghana Birth and Death Registry based on smart contract technology and can guarantee a birth notification as proof of birth certificate registration in accordance with international standards. The findings provide insight into the use of blockchain technology in public registry institutions. Furthermore, exploring its adoption and implementation in Sub-Saharan Africa contributes to the growing field of blockchain technology research and demonstrates how the concept will address long-standing issues with corruption and security in developing countries.
The Effect of Governance on Industrial Wastewater Pollution in China
Authors: Li Lili , Shi Yaobo , Huang Yun , Xing Anlu , Xue Hao
Published: August 2022

Water pollution not only aggravates the deterioration of the ecological environment and endanger human health, but also has a significantly negative impact on economic growth and social development. It is crucial to investigate the relationship between industrial wastewater governance and industrial wastewater pollution on the path to reduce water pollution. In this paper, we studied whether industrial wastewater governance affected industrial wastewater pollution using the panel fixed effect model and system generalized moment estimation model (SYS-GMM) with the panel data of 30 provinces from 2005 to 2020 in China. This is the only empirical analysis of the relationship between industrial wastewater governance and industrial wastewater pollution. We proxied industrial wastewater pollution by organic pollutants and inorganic pollutants and measured the per capita investment in industrial wastewater governance. The results shed light on the positive correlation between the per capita investment in industrial wastewater governance and industrial wastewater pollution. The increase in per capita investment in industrial wastewater governance promoted the increase of pollutant emissions from industrial wastewater. The estimation also indicated that there was an inverted U-shaped relationship between per capita GDP and inorganic /organic pollutants in industrial wastewater. Our empirical research shows that it is necessary to increase investment in industrial wastewater treatment and optimize the investment structure of environmental treatment, so as to pave the way for the comprehensive utilization of a variety of environmental treatment solutions.
Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Vertebral Artery Hypoplasia
Authors: Bakalarz Marcin , Rożniecki Jacek J. , Stasiołek Mariusz
Published: August 2022

Vertebral artery hypoplasia (VAH) belongs to the relatively frequent Doppler ultrasonography (US) findings. However, its clinical significance remains controversial. This was a retrospective study analyzing clinical data of patients undergoing US because of cerebrovascular disease in a single academic neurology center. In the dataset of 2500 US examinations, 80 individuals with VAH (VA diameter < 2.0 mm) were identified (3.2% of all patients). Patients with significant vertebral artery asymmetry (SVAA, difference in VA diameters > 1.0 mm) (n = 80) and patients with normal VA diameter (n = 80) were also recruited. Clinical parameters including clinical signs and symptoms, concomitant diseases, imaging findings and the hospitalization outcome were compared between groups. The frequency of vertigo was highest in VAH group. Ischemic lesions of the cerebellum were found in 10% of VAH patients, 16% of SVAA patients and 5% of control subjects. Neurological deficits improved in over 60% of patients in each group, whereas ca. 30% of patients remained in a stable neurological status. The percentage of patients who deteriorated did not exceed 5% in any of the groups. The results of our study support a relatively high frequency of VAH. Our observations suggest coexistence of VAH with a higher frequency of neurological presentations associated with posterior arterial circulation of the central nervous system.
Channels Adopted for Information Seeking during COVID-19: Comparing Social Media with News Media and Interpersonal Communication in Taiwan
Authors: Li Shu-Chu Sarrina , Wu Tai-Yee , Zeng Huai-Kuai , Lo Shih-Yu
Published: August 2022

By adopting niche theory, this study compared social media with news media and interpersonal communication regarding their capabilities in satisfying people’s information needs of daily use, surveillance, convenience, and information quality during the outbreak of COVID-19. Two methods were adopted to collect data for this study: the first was to conduct 20 intensive interviews, and the second was to administer an online survey by contracting a professional polling company with a panel of 8.8 million members. The stratified random sampling method was used to acquire a representative sample, from which 1100 valid questionnaires were obtained. The results showed that: (1) Social media were superior to traditional news media in terms of its convenience. However, several new types of online news, such as Yahoo news, were able to compete with social media for convenience. (2) Interpersonal communication did not outperform in satisfying individuals’ needs for the four gratifications. Nevertheless, interpersonal communication plays the role of social support for individuals.
University Students’ Mental Health and Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings from the UniCoVac Qualitative Study
Authors: Gogoi Mayuri , Webb Adam , Pareek Manish , Bayliss Christopher D. , Gies Lieve
Published: August 2022

The worldwide spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in early 2020 affected all major sectors, including higher education. The measures to contain the spread of this deadly disease led to the closure of colleges and universities across the globe, disrupting the lives of millions of students and subjecting them to a new world of online learning. These sudden disturbances coupled with the demands of a new learning system and the experiences of living through a pandemic have placed additional strains on the mental health of university students. Research on university students’ mental health, conducted during the pandemic, have found high levels of stress, anxiety and depression among students. In this qualitative study, we aimed to understand how pandemic experiences have affected student well-being by conducting in-depth interviews with 34 undergraduate students enrolled in a UK university. All interviews were conducted through Microsoft Teams and recorded with prior permission. Transcripts of recorded interviews were thematically analysed which identified two broad themes: (i) University students’ mental health and well-being experiences during the pandemic; (ii) factors that influenced students’ mental health and well-being. These factors were further distributed across six sub-themes: (a) isolation; (b) health and well-being; (c) bereavement; (d) academic concerns; (e) financial worries and; (f) support, coping, and resilience. Our study identifies the importance of mental health support to university students during pandemics and calls for measures to improve access to support services through these crisis points by universities. Findings can also inform students’ mental health and risk assessments in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Relationship between Doping Prevalence and Socioeconomic Parameters: An Analysis by Sport Categories and World Areas
Authors: Terreros José Luís , Manonelles Pedro , López-Plaza Daniel
Published: August 2022

Socioeconomic differences between countries, including corruption and doping scandals, have increased in the last few decades. The aims of the current investigation were to examine doping prevalence according to world areas and sport groups and its association with socioeconomic factors worldwide. The Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) of 160 countries competing at 2016 Olympics were analyzed between 2013 and 2018. In addition, the relationship between doping prevalence and socioeconomic characteristics, including Human Development Index (HDI), Per Capita Income (PCI) and Corruption Index (CI), was investigated. Africa, Asia, and America were revealed to have a significantly lower doping prevalence than Europe and Oceania when observing the sum and the mean ADRV/10,000 inhabitants (p < 0.01). Strong to moderate correlations were identified between Corruption Index and ADRVs and HDI and ADRVs (p < 0.01). However, the number of Olympic athletes was positively associated with the ADRVs and the HDI (r = 0.663 and 0.424, respectively). In the comparison by sport groups, the Independent Recognized Sports (AIMS) showed significantly higher Adverse Analytical Findings (AAF) and ADRVs (p < 0.01) than Olympic and Recognized International Sports (ARISF). In conclusion, the results of the current study reveal doping prevalence differences between world areas and sport categories, identifying associations with socioeconomic characteristics of each country.
The Association of Life Events Outside the Workplace and Burnout: A Cross-Sectional Study on Nursing Assistants
Authors: Tortorelli Mariana , Trigo Telma Ramos , Bolibio Renata , de Freitas Camila Colás Sabino , Ribeiro Floracy Gomes , de Lucia Mara Cristina Souza , Iosifescu Dan V. , Fráguas Renério
Published: August 2022

Background: Burnout, by definition, is related to adverse chronic workplace stressors. Life events outside the workplace have been associated with an increased risk of psychiatric morbidity. However, it is unknown whether life events outside the workplace increase the severity of burnout. Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the association between burnout and life events outside the workplace in nursing assistants. Methods: In an observational, cross-sectional, single-site study of 521 nursing assistants at a university hospital, we assessed burnout with the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey, and life events with the Social Readjustment Rating Scale. We constructed equations of multiple linear regression analyses that included each burnout subscale as the dependent variable and a domain of life events as the independent variable. Results were adjusted for potential confounders, including gender, no religion or faith, years of work, and depression. Results: An increase in the number of life events in the domain of personal changes or difficulties (e.g., personal injury or illness, sexual difficulties, change in recreation, church activities, social activities, sleeping habits, eating habits and revision of personal habits) was associated with increased severity of emotional exhaustion. An increase in the number of life events in the domain of changes in familial situation and in the domains of death of relatives or friends were associated with increased severity of depersonalization. Those associations were independent of work-related life events and other potential confounders. Conclusions: Life events outside the workplace may increase the levels of burnout in nursing assistants.
The Relationship between Cellphone Usage on the Physical and Mental Wellbeing of University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Daniyal Muhammad , Javaid Syed Fahad , Hassan Ali , Khan Moien A. B.
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: The study aims to examine the use of cell phones on physical and mental health status and their impact on personality among university students. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire. The association of physical and mental health variables with the demographic variables was examined using Pearson’s correlation and χ2-test. The binary logistic regression model was further used to predict the probabilities of negative impact on personality due to excessive use of cell phones. (3) Results: A total of 400 participants participated with a mean age of 24.45 ± 3.45 years. The average eye strain was more in High cell phone users HCPU than in LCPU and that difference was significant p = 0.000. The average neck pain was more in (HCPU) than Low cell phone users (LCPU) and there was a significant difference between the two groups with p = 0.006. The average weight gain was more in HCPU than LCPU and that difference was significant p = 0.000. Considering back pain, back pain was found more in HCPU as compared to LCPU with a statistical difference at p = 0.027. Cell phone usage significantly correlated with eye strain (r = 0.577, p = 0.000), neck pain (r = 0.543, p = 0.000), back pain (r = 0.611, p = 0.000), weight gain (r = 0.423, p = 0.000), depression (r = 0.430, p = 0.000), loneliness (r = −0.276, p = 0.002), and mood disorder (r = 0.608, p = 0.000). Eye strain, neck pain, and back pain was observed more in HCPU than in LCPU. HCPU felt they gained more weight when compared to the respondents in the LCPU group. HCPU felt more changes in mood and feeling low when compared to the LCPU, while LCPU group felt more lonelier when compared to the HCPU group. (4) Conclusions: The study highlights a significant association between excess use of cell phones and negative effects on physical and mental health wellbeing. Based on the results, it is recommended that more physical activities and alternative to minimize cell phone usage should be planned for the students. Public health policy makers and stakeholder need to address the ill effects of excessive use of cell phones through novel policies., especially young students, and alternatives to reduce their cell phone activities.
Should We Be Worried about Smartphone Addiction? An Examination of Canadian Adolescents’ Feelings of Social Disconnection in the Time of COVID-19
Authors: Parent Natasha , Xiao Bowen , Hein-Salvi Claire , Shapka Jennifer
Published: August 2022

As the COVID-19 global pandemic limited face-to-face social contact, mental health concerns increased for adolescents. Additionally, many adolescents turned to technology to communicate with their peers, which also raised concerns about adolescent smartphone addiction. However, research has yet to examine how mental health and technology engagement are related to adolescents’ feelings of social connection—an important developmental predictor of wellbeing across the lifespan. Specifically, little is known regarding the relative risk of adolescents’ mental health concerns, a known risk factor for social disconnection and isolation and smartphone addiction in contributing to feelings of social disconnection in the time of COVID-19. The present study investigated how mental health outcomes and smartphone addiction contributed to Canadian adolescents’ (n = 1753) feelings of social disconnection during COVID-19. Between October 2020 and May 2021, data were collected from five secondary schools in and around the lower mainland of British Columbia using an online-administered self-report questionnaire. Adolescents responded to questions about their smartphone addiction, internalizing problems, and an open-ended question about their feelings of connection to others. Findings from logistic regression analyses indicated that depression was a predictor of feeling socially disconnected: however, smartphone addiction was not associated with feelings of social disconnection during COVID-19. Implications of these findings can help inform the development of prevention programs targeting adolescents at risk for social disconnection in times of increased social isolation (e.g., a global pandemic). Specifically, these findings suggest that adolescents higher in depressive symptoms, and not those higher in smartphone addiction, are the ones most at risk.
The Narrative Medicine Approach in the Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema: An Italian Experience
Authors: Midena Edoardo , Polo Chiara , Frizziero Luisa , Marini Maria Giulia , Lattanzio Rosangela , Vadalà Maria , Pilotto Elisabetta , Varano Monica
Published: August 2022

The study retraces the healthcare pathway of patients affected by diabetic macular edema (DME) through the direct voice of patients and caregivers by using a “patient journey” and narrative method approach. The mapping of the patient’s journey was developed by a multidisciplinary board of health professionals and involved four Italian retina centers. DME patients on intravitreal injection therapy and caregivers were interviewed according to the narrative medicine approach. Narratives were analyzed through a quali-quantitative tool, as set by the narrative medicine method. The study involved four specialized retina centers in Italy and collected a total of 106 narratives, 82 from DME patients and 24 from caregivers. The narratives reported their difficulty in identifying the correct pathway of care because of a limited awareness of diabetes and its complications. Patients experienced reduced autonomy due to ocular complications. In the treatment of diabetes and its complications, a multidisciplinary approach currently appears to be missing. DME reduces the quality of life of affected patients. The narrative medicine approach offers qualitative and emotional patient-guided information. The patient journey provides all of those involved in the management of DME with flowcharts to refer to, identifying the critical points in the healthcare journey of DME patients to improve the management of the disease.
COVID-19 Testing Strategies for K-12 Schools in California: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Maya Sigal , McCorvie Ryan , Jacobson Kathleen , Shete Priya B. , Bardach Naomi , Kahn James G.
Published: August 2022

Public health officials must provide guidance on operating schools safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data from April–December 2021, we conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis to assess six screening strategies for schools using SARS-CoV-2 antigen and PCR tests and varying screening frequencies for 1000 individuals. We estimated secondary infections averted, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), cost per QALY gained, and unnecessary school days missed per infection averted. We conducted sensitivity analyses for the more transmissible Omicron variant. Weekly antigen testing with PCR follow-up for positives was the most cost-effective option given moderate transmission, adding 0.035 QALYs at a cost of USD 320,000 per QALY gained in the base case (Reff = 1.1, prevalence = 0.2%). This strategy had the fewest needlessly missed school days (ten) per secondary infection averted. During widespread community transmission with Omicron (Reff = 1.5, prevalence = 5.8%), twice weekly antigen testing with PCR follow-up led to 2.02 QALYs gained compared to no test and cost the least (USD 187,300), with 0.5 needlessly missed schooldays per infection averted. In periods of moderate community transmission, weekly antigen testing with PCR follow up can help reduce transmission in schools with minimal unnecessary days of school missed. During widespread community transmission, twice weekly antigen screening with PCR confirmation is the most cost-effective and efficient strategy. Schools may benefit from resources to implement routine asymptomatic testing during surges; benefits decline as community transmission declines.
Prevalence of Lumbar Segmental Instability in Young Individuals with the Different Types of Lumbar Disc Herniation—Preliminary Report
Authors: Kuligowski Tomasz
Published: August 2022

Lumbar segmental instability (LSI) can cause pain and disability, and its background can be related to lumbar disc herniation (LDH). This retrospective study was conducted to analyze the prevalence of lumbar segmental instability (LSI) in young patients with different types of lumbar disc herniation (LDH). The study evaluated 133 individuals (18–25 years old) who suffered from LDH and underwent MRI and flexion-extension X-rays. Two groups were created: protrusion (PRO) and extrusion (EXT). LSI was scored positive when translatory motion was greater than 4 mm anteriorly or 2 mm posteriorly at the level of herniation. Statistica 13 was used to perform statistics. The LSI overall prevalence was 18.33% in PRO and 21.92% in EXT (p > 0.05). Out of all LSI positives, higher LSI incidence was observed in females compared to males; in PRO: 63.64%; in EXT: 68.75% (p > 0.05). LSI correlated positively with the passive lumbar extension test (PLE) (R = 0.32; p = 0.01) in the PRO group only. In summary, the results showed that the overall incidence of LSI was higher with severer disc damage. In addition, females were more prone to this pathology. However, the different types of LDH do not significantly affect the prevalence of LSI in young individuals.
Predicting the Intention to Sort Waste at Home in Rural Communities in Lebanon: An Application of the Theory of Planned Behaviour
Authors: Bardus Marco , Massoud May A.
Published: August 2022

Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Lebanon have limited technical, economic, and social infrastructures to manage municipal solid waste properly. Understanding what motivates citizens to sort waste at home is paramount to designing effective, efficient, and equitable waste management interventions. Within the solid waste management project “RES-Q” in Southern Lebanon, we investigated the socio-cognitive predictors of waste sorting in a sample of 767 households from the targeted area using the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). Perceived behavioural control (β = 0.96, p < 0.001), perceived norms (β = −0.30, p < 0.001), and current behaviour (β = 0.06, p < 0.001) were the strongest predictors of intention; attitude toward separating waste was not a significant predictor (β = 0.04, p = 0.3881). Consequently, future behavioural interventions should build capability and opportunity to perform the behaviour before normalising it. For example, citizens should receive bins and bags to separate waste and be shown how to perform the behaviour and how easy and convenient it is to increase their behavioural control. In parallel, waste collection and treatment infrastructures must be in place so that citizens can see that sorting waste is a social norm. These actions will ensure the success of future behavioural interventions within the RES-Q project and beyond.
Exploring the Major Factors Affecting Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Korean Adolescents: Based on the 2021 Korea Youth Health Behavior Survey
Authors: Kim Mi-Lyang , Shin Kyulee
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: Recently, the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among adolescents has been higher than in adults. Early detection is important for treatment. Accordingly, although various factors affecting adolescents’ GAD have been studied, the body of research is fragmented, and an integrated analysis of the influencing factors is needed. Therefore, in this study, we intended to analyze various factors affecting GAD. (2) Methods: Using data from the Korea Youth Health Behavior Survey (2021), sociodemographic factors, negative emotion, and physical activity factors were selected. Correlation analysis, t-test, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis were performed using SPSS 26.0. (3) Results: Perceived stress was found to be the factor that had the greatest influence on GAD. (4) Conclusions: The risk of GAD in Korean adolescents was found to increase in female students who had higher levels of perceived stress, and participated in less high-intensity or muscle-strengthening exercise.
Correlation between Glycation-Related Biomarkers and Quality of Life in the General Japanese Population: The Iwaki Cross-Sectional Research Study
Authors: Tsubokawa Masaya , Nishimura Miyuki , Murashita Koichi , Iwane Takuro , Tamada Yoshinori
Published: August 2022

The correlation between diabetes-related biomarkers and quality of life (QOL) remains unclear. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the correlation between diabetes-related biomarkers and QOL in a general Japanese population who underwent health checkups as a part of the Iwaki Health Promotion Project. Male and female participants aged ≥ 20 years from Iwaki District, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture who participated in the 2019 medical evaluation were recruited. QOL was evaluated using the Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36). Fasting blood glucose, homeostatic model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), glycoalbumin, and plasma pentosidine were also evaluated as diabetes-related markers. Of the 1065 recruited participants, 1053 completed the clinical and QOL evaluations. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that upregulated diabetes-related markers levels were correlated with decreased SF-36 scores. Blood glucose, HOMA-IR, HbA1c, glycoalbumin, and plasma pentosidine levels were correlated with general health. Moreover, plasma pentosidine levels were correlated with role physical, social functioning, and role emotional in addition to general health. These results indicated that the levels of diabetes-related biomarkers, particularly the levels of plasma pentosidine, a glycation marker, were associated with QOL in our cohort.
Environmental Health Responses to COVID 19 in Western Australia: Lessons for the Future
Authors: Oosthuizen Jacques , Stoneham Melissa , Hannelly Toni , Masaka Edmore , Dodds Giverny , Andrich Victor
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic tested the health system of Western Australia (WA) and the relatively new overarching legislative framework that guided the state-wide public health response to the pandemic. This study aimed to evaluate the experiences and roles of environmental health officers (EHOs) in WA during the management of COVID-19 and to identify any policy changes that are needed to facilitate the rapid deployment of EHOs during a future public health crisis. An online survey with 78 respondents was administered and analysis was both qualitative and quantitative. It was found that participants believed there was inadequate resourcing, workforce shortages, increased workloads, and a lack of recognition and integration of the profession within the COVID-19 response. Notably, more than 65% of the respondents believed they could have been better utilised during the pandemic. This research has demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic in WA had clear gaps in its processes for managing responses and resilience to pandemics. Policy recommendations outlining a more efficient and integrated delivery of environmental health services throughout the state during emergencies are discussed.
Influence of Parent–Child Conflict on Psychological Distress among Chinese Adolescents: Moderating Effects of School Connectedness and Neighborhood Disorder
Authors: Wang Zhiyou , Chen Ji-Kang
Published: August 2022

Previous empirical studies have found that not all adolescents showed a high level of psychological distress when facing parent–child conflict, which implies that there could be some additional moderating variables in this pair association. School connectedness and neighborhood disorder have been regarded as possible moderators of this relationship, but empirical evidence is lacking. The participants in this study included 971 students from two middle schools (grades 7–9) and two high schools (grades 10–12) and their parents in the City of Y, Shanxi Province, in mainland China. The PROCESS macro was used to conduct the moderation analysis. The results revealed that both school connectedness and neighborhood disorder significantly moderated the association of parent–child conflict with adolescent psychological distress. These findings highlighted the significance of increasing school connectedness and decreasing neighborhood disorder to alleviate adolescent psychological distress, thereby contributing to related policies and interventions.
The Effect of Global Warming on Complex Disorders (Mental Disorders, Primary Hypertension, and Type 2 Diabetes)
Authors: Natur Sarya , Damri Odeya , Agam Galila
Published: August 2022

Multiple studies imply a strong relationship between global warming (GW) and complex disorders. This review summarizes such reports concentrating on three disorders—mental disorders (MD), primary hypertension, and type 2 diabetes (T2D). We also attempt to point at potential mechanisms mediating the effect of GW on these disorders. Concerning mental disorders, immediate candidates are brain levels of heat-shock proteins (HSPs). In addition, given that heat stress increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels which may lead to blood–brain barrier (BBB) breakdown and, hence, enhanced protein extravasation in the brain, this might finally cause, or exacerbate mental health. As for hypertension, since its causes are incompletely understood, the mechanism(s) by which heat exposure affects blood pressure (BP) is an open question. Since the kidneys participate in regulating blood volume and BP they are considered as a site of heat-associated disease, hence, we discuss hyperosmolarity as a potential mediator. In addition, we relate to autoimmunity, inflammation, sodium excretion, and HSP70 as risk factors that might play a role in the effect of heat on hypertension. In the case of T2D, we raise two potential mediators of the effect of exposure to ambient hot environment on the disease’s incidence—brown adipose tissue metabolism and HSPs.
Bacterial Cross-Transmission between Inanimate Surfaces and Patients in Intensive Care Units under Real-World Conditions: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kuczewski Elisabetta , Henaff Laetitia , Regard Anne , Argaud Laurent , Lukaszewicz Anne-Claire , Rimmelé Thomas , Cassier Pierre , Fredenucci Isabelle , Loeffert-Frémiot Sophie , Khanafer Nagham , Vanhems Philippe
Published: August 2022

Background/Objectives: Contaminated surfaces play an important role in the nosocomial infection of patients in intensive care units (ICUs). This study, conducted in two ICUs at Edouard Herriot Hospital (Lyon, France), aimed to describe rooms’ microbial ecology and explore the potential link between environmental contamination and patients’ colonization and/or infection. Methods: Environmental samples were realized once monthly from January 2020 to December 2021 on surfaces close to the patient (bedrails, bedside table, and dedicated stethoscope) and healthcare workers’ high-touch surfaces, which were distant from the patient (computer, worktop/nurse cart, washbasin, and hydro-alcoholic solution/soap dispenser). Environmental bacteria were compared to the cultures of the patients hospitalized in the sampled room over a period of ± 10 days from the environmental sampling. Results: Overall, 137 samples were collected: 90.7% of the samples close to patients, and 87.9% of the distant ones were positives. Overall, 223 bacteria were isolated, mainly: Enterococcus faecalis (15.7%), Pantoea agglomerans (8.1%), Enterobacter cloacae/asburiae (6.3%), Bacillus cereus and other Bacillus spp (6.3%), Enterococcusfaecium (5.8%), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (5.4%), and Acinetobacter baumannii (4.9%). Throughout the study, 142 patients were included, of which, n = 67 (47.2%) were infected or colonized by at least one bacterium. In fourteen cases, the same bacterial species were found both in environment and patient samples, with the suspicion of a cross-contamination between the patient–environment (n = 10) and environment–patient (n = 4). Conclusions: In this work, we found a high level of bacterial contamination on ICU rooms’ surfaces and described several cases of potential cross-contamination between environment and patients in real-world conditions.
The Dual Roles of Nano Zero-Valent Iron and Zinc Oxide in Antibiotics Resistance Genes (ARGs) Spread in Sediment
Authors: Luo Ling , Deng Dahang , Zhao Xin , Hu Hairong , Li Xinyi , Gu Jidong , He Yan , Yang Gang , Deng Ouping , Xiao Yinlong
Published: August 2022

Nanoparticles (NPs) are widely used and ubiquitous in the environment, but the consequences of their release into the environment on antibiotics resistance genes (ARGs), microbial abundance, and community, are largely unknown. Therefore, this study examined the effect of nano zero-valent iron (nZVI) and zinc oxide (nZnO) on tetracycline resistance genes (tet-ARGs) and class 1 integron (intI1) in sediment under laboratory incubation. The coexistence of NPs and tetracycline (TC) on tet-ARGs/intI1 was also investigated. It was found that nZVI and nZnO promoted tet-ARGs/intI1 abundance in sediment without TC but reduced the inducing effect of TC on tet-ARGs/intI1 in sediment overlaid with TC solution. Without TC, nZVI, intI1, and the bacterial community could directly promote tet-ARGs spread in nZVI sediment, while intI1 and bacterial abundance were the most directly important reasons for tet-ARGs spread in nZnO sediment. With TC, nZVI and bacterial community could reduce tet-ARGs abundance in nZVI sediment, while nZnO and bacterial community could directly promote tet-ARGs in nZnO sediment. Finally, these findings provided valuable information for understanding the role of NPs in promoting and reducing ARGs in the environment.
Predictive Analysis of the Pro-Environmental Behaviour of College Students Using a Decision-Tree Model
Authors: Wang Qiaoling , Kou Ziyu , Sun Xiaodan , Wang Shanshan , Wang Xianjuan , Jing Hui , Lin Peiying
Published: August 2022

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has hindered the achievement of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Pro-environmental behaviour contributes to the achievement of the SDGs, and UNESCO considers college students as major contributors. There is a scarcity of research on college student pro-environmental behaviour and even less on the use of decision trees to predict pro-environmental behaviour. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the validity of applying a modified C5.0 decision-tree model to predict college student pro-environmental behaviour and to determine which variables can be used as predictors of such behaviour. To address these questions, 334 university students in Guangdong Province, China, completed a questionnaire that consisted of seven parts: the Perceived Behavioural Control Scale, the Social Identity Scale, the Innovative Behaviour Scale, the Sense of Place Scale, the Subjective Norms Scale, the Environmental Activism Scale, and the willingness to behave in an environmentally responsible manner scale. A modified C5.0 decision-tree model was also used to make predictions. The results showed that the main predictor variables for pro-environmental behaviour were willingness to behave in an environmentally responsible manner, innovative behaviour, and perceived behavioural control. The importance of willingness to behave in an environmentally responsible manner was 0.1562, the importance of innovative behaviour was 0.1404, and the perceived behavioural control was 0.1322. Secondly, there are 63.88% of those with high pro-environmental behaviour. Therefore, we conclude that the decision tree model is valid in predicting the pro-environmental behaviour of college student. The predictor variables for pro-environmental behaviour were, in order of importance: Willingness to behave in an environmentally responsible manner, Environmental Activism, Subjective Norms, Sense of Place, Innovative Behaviour, Social Identity, and Perceived Behavioural Control. This study establishes a link between machine learning and pro-environmental behaviour and broadens understanding of pro-environmental behaviour. It provides a research support with improving people’s sustainable development philosophy and behaviour.
Effect of Humic Acid on the Growth and Metabolism of Candida albicans Isolated from Surface Waters in North-Eastern Poland
Authors: Cudowski Adam , Pietryczuk Anna , Górniak Andrzej
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of humic acid on the growth and metabolism of Candida albicans, a common waterborne pathogenic yeast. At 10–20 mg/L, humic acid caused the greatest increase in biomass and compactness of proteins and monosaccharides, both in cells and in extracellular secretion of the yeast. At higher humic acid concentrations (40–80 mg/L), C. albicans cells still had higher protein levels compared to control, but showed reduced levels of metabolites and inhibited growth, and a significant increase in the activity of antioxidant enzymes, indicating a toxic effect of the humic acid. The increase in protein content in the cells of C. albicans combined with an increase in the activity of antioxidant enzymes may indicate that the studied yeast excels in conditions of high water enrichment with low availability of organic matter. This indicates that Candida albicans is capable of breaking down organic matter that other microorganisms cannot cope with, and for this reason, this yeast uses carbon sources that are not available to other microorganisms. This indicates that this fungus plays an important role in the organic carbon sphere to higher trophic levels, and is common in water polluted with organic matter.
Beyond Accessibility: A Multidimensional Evaluation of Urban Park Equity in Yangzhou, China
Authors: Li Zhiming , Liang Zhengyuan , Feng Linhui , Fan Zhengxi
Published: August 2022

Evaluating park equity can help guide the advancement of sustainable and equitable space policies. Previous studies have mainly considered accessibility when evaluating park equity while ignoring the selectivity and convenience of entering parks and residents’ recognition of parks. Measuring equity based mainly on spatial thinking has resulted in the social aspects of parks receiving insufficient attention. In this study, we therefore integrated the spatial and social equity of parks and developed a multidimensional framework to evaluate park equity in four dimensions: accessibility (Ai), diversity (Di), convenience (Ci), and satisfaction (Si). Empirical analysis from Yangzhou, China showed that: (1) in Yangzhou’s built-up districts, 23.43% of the communities received high- or relatively high-level park access but 17.72% received little or no park access. (2) The Gini coefficient indicated that all three dimensions showed a mismatch with population distribution, except for satisfaction (Si), which showed a relatively reasonable match. (3) Park access was generally better in communities with better locations, environments, and facilities. High-income groups enjoyed significantly better park access than low- and middle-income groups. These findings could help urban planners and policymakers develop effective policies to reduce inequality in park access.
Uncovering Factors Affecting Taxi Income from GPS Traces at the Directional Road Segment Level
Authors: Jin Shuxin , Wu Zhouhao , Shen Tong , Wang Di , Cai Ming
Published: August 2022

Nowadays, the market demand for taxis is still intense. However, there exist lots of issues affecting the healthy development of the taxi industry, such as an increasing difficulty in hailing taxis, detouring behavior etc., and especially, the low incomes of taxi drivers. This paper establishes a multi-layer road index (MRI) system of 7862 directional road segments (DRSs), and collects over 194 million occupied GPS points within a week, revealing the factors affecting taxi drivers’ incomes in Shenzhen, China. The income differences has been identified on different DRSs, which accordingly have been categorized into two levels. Four categories of DRS factors, i.e., road attributes, traffic dynamics, points of interest (POIs), and taxi operation strategies, are defined as the impact factors affecting income levels. The selected sample-based binomial logit (SBL) model has been proposed to reveal the significance of these influencing factors. The results indicate that the road segments with different features have different incomes over different time periods. The main factors in income analysis are the factors used to represent taxi operation strategies. Highly rewarding pick-up road segments can be identified, which could contribute to drivers’ income improvements, and can further contribute to the development of the taxi market.