bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maxwell Equations without a Polarization Field, Using a Paradigm from Biophysics
Authors: Eisenberg Robert S.
Published: January 2021

When forces are applied to matter, the distribution of mass changes. Similarly, when an electric field is applied to matter with charge, the distribution of charge changes. The change in the distribution of charge (when a local electric field is applied) might in general be called the induced charge. When the change in charge is simply related to the applied local electric field, the polarization field P is widely used to describe the induced charge. This approach does not allow electrical measurements (in themselves) to determine the structure of the polarization fields. Many polarization fields will produce the same electrical forces because only the divergence of polarization enters Maxwell’s first equation, relating charge and electric forces and field. The curl of any function can be added to a polarization field P without changing the electric field at all. The divergence of the curl is always zero. Additional information is needed to specify the curl and thus the structure of the P field. When the structure of charge changes substantially with the local electric field, the induced charge is a nonlinear and time dependent function of the field and P is not a useful framework to describe either the electrical or structural basis-induced charge. In the nonlinear, time dependent case, models must describe the charge distribution and how it varies as the field changes. One class of models has been used widely in biophysics to describe field dependent charge, i.e., the phenomenon of nonlinear time dependent induced charge, called ‘gating current’ in the biophysical literature. The operational definition of gating current has worked well in biophysics for fifty years, where it has been found to makes neurons respond sensitively to voltage. Theoretical estimates of polarization computed with this definition fit experimental data. I propose that the operational definition of gating current be used to define voltage and time dependent induced charge, although other definitions may be needed as well, for example if the induced charge is fundamentally current dependent. Gating currents involve substantial changes in structure and so need to be computed from a combination of electrodynamics and mechanics because everything charged interacts with everything charged as well as most things mechanical. It may be useful to separate the classical polarization field as a component of the total induced charge, as it is in biophysics. When nothing is known about polarization, it is necessary to use an approximate representation of polarization with a dielectric constant that is a single real positive number. This approximation allows important results in some cases, e.g., design of integrated circuits in silicon semiconductors, but can be seriously misleading in other cases, e.g., ionic solutions.
A Secure Control Design for Networked Control Systems with Linear Dynamics under a Time-Delay Switch Attack
Authors: Victorio Mauro , Sargolzaei Arman , Khalghani Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2021

Networked control systems (NCSs) are designed to control and monitor large-scale and complex systems remotely. The communication connectivity in an NCS allows agents to quickly communicate with each other to respond to abrupt changes in the system quickly, thus reducing complexity and increasing efficiency. Despite all these advantages, NCSs are vulnerable to cyberattacks. Injecting cyberattacks, such as a time-delay switch (TDS) attack, into communication channels has the potential to make NCSs inefficient or even unstable. This paper presents a Lyapunov-based approach to detecting and estimating TDS attacks in real time. A secure control strategy is designed to mitigate the effects of TDS attacks in real time. The stability of the secure control system is investigated using the Lyapunov theory. The proposed TDS attack estimator’s performance and secure control strategy are evaluated in simulations and a hardware-in-the-loop environment.
Power Forecasting of a Photovoltaic Plant Located in ENEA Casaccia Research Center
Authors: Radicioni Martina , Lucaferri Valentina , De Lia Francesco , Laudani Antonino , Lo Presti Roberto , Lozito Gabriele Maria , Riganti Fulginei Francesco , Schioppo Riccardo , Tucci Mario
Published: January 2021

This work proposes an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) able to provide an accurate forecasting of power produced by photovoltaic (PV) plants. The ANN is customized on the basis of the particular season of the year. An accurate analysis of input variables, i.e., solar irradiance, temperature and air humidity, carried out by means of Pearson Correlation, has allowed to select, day by day, the most suitable set of inputs and ANN architecture also to reduce the necessity of large computational resource. Thus, features are added to the ANN as needed, avoiding waste of computational resources. The method has been validated through data collected from a PV plant installed in ENEA (National agency for new technologies, energy and sustainable economic development) Research Center, located in Casaccia, Rome (Italy). The developed strategy is able to furnish accurate predictions even in the case of strong irregularities of solar irradiance, providing accurate results in rapidly changing scenarios.
A Data-Driven and Data-Based Framework for Online Voltage Stability Assessment Using Partial Mutual Information and Iterated Random Forest
Authors: Liu Songkai , Shi Ruoyuan , Huang Yuehua , Li Xin , Li Zhenhua , Wang Lingyun , Mao Dan , Liu Lihuang , Liao Siyang , Zhang Menglin , Yan Guanghui , Liu Lian
Published: January 2021

Due to the rapid development of phasor measurement units (PMUs) and the wide area of interconnection of modern power systems, the security of power systems is confronted with severe challenges. A novel framework based on data for static voltage stability margin (VSM) assessment of power systems is presented. The proposed framework can select the key operation variables as input features for the assessment based on partial mutual information (PMI). Before the feature selection procedure is completed by PMI, a feature preprocessing approach is applied to remove redundant and irrelevant features to improve computational efficiency. Using the selected key variables, a voltage stability assessment (VSA) model based on iterated random forest (IRF) can rapidly provide the relative VSM results. The proposed framework is examined on the IEEE 30-bus system and a practical 1648-bus system, and a desirable assessment performance is demonstrated. In addition, the robustness and computational speed of the proposed framework are also verified. Some impact factors for power system operation are studied in a robustness examination, such as topology change, variation of peak/minimum load, and variation of generator/load power distribution.
Battery Energy Storage System for Emergency Supply and Improved Reliability of Power Networks
Authors: Szott Marcin , Wermiński Szymon , Jarnut Marcin , Kaniewski Jacek , Benysek Grzegorz
Published: January 2021

This paper introduces the concept of a battery energy storage system as an emergency power supply for a separated power network, with the possibility of island operation for a power substation with one-side supply. This system, with an appropriately sized energy storage capacity, allows improvement in the continuity of the power supply and increases the reliability of the separated network at a specified time during the limitation of power transmission as a result of damage or disconnection of the main power line. This paper presents and describes a specific method of energy storage system dimensioning based on real measurement data. Based on the obtained parameters, an analysis of the reliability improvement of the considered network was performed. The implementation of the battery energy storage system will contribute to a more than 5-fold reduction in the occurrence of power outages in the time interval from 3 min to 1.5 h, which will clearly reduce the System Average Interruption Frequency Index and System Average Interruption Duration Index factors. In this paper, the network conditions for operational normality and failure are presented and the cost for implementation of an energy storage system (about EUR 1 million) is compared with the possible implementation of an additional power line (about EUR 5 million) to a specific power substation.
A Comparative Analysis of Septage Management in Five Cities in the Philippines
Authors: Baltazar Dalton Erick , Harada Hidenori , Fujii Shigeo , Tan Maria Francesca , Akib Shatirah
Published: January 2021

This study assessed and compared septage management systems in Baliwag, Calamba, Muntinlupa, Pasig, and San Fernando, the Philippines, using fecal waste flow diagrams and service delivery scorecards. According to the fecal waste flow diagrams, San Fernando is the most successful in preventing its environment’s pollution. It is followed by Baliwag, Muntinlupa, and Pasig. In Calamba, all of the fecal waste is disposed of to the environment. According to the scorecards, Pasig has the most efficient septage management service, followed by San Fernando, Baliwag, Muntinlupa, and Calamba. Among the five areas, San Fernando can be considered to have the most efficient septage management system as it had the best fecal waste flow diagram and second highest ratings in the service delivery scorecard. It might have been an advantage that the city itself is managing the whole system—from implementing rules for septic tank plans, to the collection, treatment, and disposal of septage.
Evaluating Coexistence of Fish Species with Coastal Cutthroat Trout in Low Order Streams of Western Oregon and Washington, USA
Authors: Martens Kyle D. , Dunham Jason
Published: January 2021

When multiple species of fish coexist there are a host of potential ways through which they may interact, yet there is often a strong focus on studies of single species without considering these interactions. For example, many studies of forestry–stream interactions in the Pacific Northwest have focused solely on the most prevalent species: Coastal cutthroat trout. To examine the potential for interactions of other fishes with coastal cutthroat trout, we conducted an analysis of 281 sites in low order streams located on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula and along the central Oregon coast. Coastal cutthroat trout and juvenile coho salmon were the most commonly found salmonid species within these streams and exhibited positive associations with each other for both presence and density. Steelhead were negatively associated with the presence of coastal cutthroat trout as well as with coho salmon and sculpins (Cottidae). Coastal cutthroat trout most frequently shared streams with juvenile coho salmon. For densities of these co-occurring species, associations between these two species were relatively weak compared to the strong influences of physical stream conditions (size and gradient), suggesting that physical conditions may have more of an influence on density than species interactions. Collectively, our analysis, along with a review of findings from prior field and laboratory studies, suggests that the net effect of interactions between coastal cutthroat trout and coho salmon do not appear to inhibit their presence or densities in small streams along the Pacific Northwest.
Acceptance of a Nordic, Protein-Reduced Diet for Young Children during Complementary Feeding—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Johansson Ulrica , Lindberg Lene , Öhlund Inger , Hernell Olle , Lönnerdal Bo , Lundén Saara , Sandell Mari , Lind Torbjörn
Published: January 2021

Early life is critical for developing healthy eating patterns. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a Nordic, protein-reduced complementary diet (ND) compared to a diet following the current Swedish dietary guidelines on eating patterns and food acceptance. At 4–6 months (mo) of age infants were randomized to a Nordic group (NG, n = 41) or a Conventional group (CG, n = 40), and followed until 18 mo of age. Daily intake of fruits and vegetables (mean ± sd) at 12 mo was significantly higher in the NG compared to the CG: 341 ± 108 g/day vs. 220 ± 76 g/day (p < 0.001), respectively. From 12 to 18 mo, fruit and vegetable intake decreased, but the NG still consumed 32% more compared to the CG: 254 ± 99 g/day vs. 193 ± 67 g/day (p = 0.004). To assess food acceptance, both groups were tested with home exposure meals at 12 and 18 mo. No group differences in acceptance were found. We find that a ND with parental education initiates healthy eating patterns during infancy, but that the exposure meal used in the present study was insufficient to detect major differences in food acceptance. This is most likely explained by the preparation of the meal. Nordic produce offers high environmental sustainability and favorable taste composition to establish healthy food preferences during this sensitive period of early life.
Effect of Unsaturated Fatty Acids on Intra-Metabolites and Aroma Compounds of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in Wine Fermentation
Authors: Liu Peitong , Ivanova-Petropulos Violeta , Duan Changqing , Yan Guoliang
Published: January 2021

The small changes in concentration of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) cause a significant influence on the aromatic component of wines. In this work, the effect of UFAs mixture (including linoleic, oleic, and α-linolenic acids) addition on intra-metabolites and aromatic compounds of two Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain EC1118 and BDX were investigated in red wine fermentation, respectively. The results showed that the pre-fermentative addition of UFAs significantly modified the physiological and energetic state of cells, and affected the levels of intra-metabolites in glycolysis pathway and TCA cycle, redox balance, ATP pool, fatty acids, and amino acids metabolism, which consequently altered the chemical and volatile composition of the wines. Different with the control wine, the wines produced by UFAs addition were characterized with higher amounts of glycerol, C6-alcohols and higher alcohols, and lower levels of acetic acid, medium-chain fatty acids, and acetate esters. Interestingly, the production of ethyl esters showed opposite profiles in different strains due to the distinct expression of EEB1, indicating that the effect of UFAs on ethyl esters syntheses is strain-specificity. Our results highlighted the effectiveness of modulating UFAs content in shaping aroma characteristics, and verified that fine adjusting the content of UFAs combined with inoculating proper yeast is a promising strategy to modulate the aromatic quality of wine, which probably provides an alternative approach to meet the expectations of wine consumers for diverse aromatic qualities.
Genotype and Successive Harvests Interaction Affects Phenolic Acids and Aroma Profile of Genovese Basil for Pesto Sauce Production
Authors: Ciriello Michele , Formisano Luigi , El-Nakhel Christophe , Kyriacou Marios C. , Soteriou Georgios A. , Pizzolongo Fabiana , Romano Raffaele , De Pascale Stefania , Rouphael Youssef
Published: January 2021

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is an essential ingredient of the Mediterranean cuisine due to its distinctive aroma. Genovese basil leaves are used to prepare “pesto”, a condiment that has always caught the interest of consumers and producers. Usually, basil for industrial processing is harvested more than once to extract a higher yield. However, successive cuts can affect quality traits that play a crucial role in defining the product’s final sensory profile. This research was aimed to evaluate the impact of cut on the quantitative and qualitative properties of three Genovese basil cultivars (Aroma 2, Eleonora and Italiano Classico) grown in an open field. Nitrate content, phenolic acids and aromatic profile were determined by ion chromatography (IC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC/MS) analysis, respectively. The second harvest increased fresh biomass and total phenolic acids content by 172% and 413%, respectively, with Italiano Classico recording the highest values. The combination of second-cut Aroma 2 yielded the lowest nitrate (473.8 mg kg−1 of fresh weight) and Eugenol (2.4%) levels. In the second harvest, Eleonora showed an increase in eugenol and trans-α-bergamotene of 75.3% and 48.2%, respectively; whereas, eucalyptol and β-cis-ocimene decreased by 34.4% and 51.6%, respectively. Although successive harvests may increase basil yield and quality overall, the cultivar-dependent response to successive cuts needs to be accounted for in order to accomplish standardization of industrial “pesto” sauce.
A Network Perspective of the Ecosystem’s Health Provision Spectrum in the Tourist Trails of UNESCO Global Geoparks: Santo Sepulcro and Riacho do Meio Trails, Araripe UGG (NE of Brazil)
Authors: Guimarães Eduardo S. , Gabriel Ronaldo C. D. , Sá Artur A. , Soares Rafael C. , Bandeira Paulo Felipe R. , Torquato Isabella Hevily S. , Moreira Helena , Marques Michel M. , Guimarães Jaqueliny R. S.
Published: January 2021

In this investigation, we formulated the Ecosystem’s Health Provision Spectrum and its centrality indicators, based on the identification of the Ecosystem Health Potentials and Opportunities on the trails of Santo Sepulcro and Riacho do Meio in the Araripe UNESCO Global Geopark (UGG), establishing a baseline for the promotion of green exercise and geotourism in the territory. Based on the network methodology for complex systems, we analyzed the closeness and strength of biotic, abiotic variables, nature phenomena, infrastructure, and sensory experiences in order to determine the configuration of these associations. In the Santo Sepulcro, regarding the association, two negative relations and two positive relations among the variables were highlighted; as for closeness and strength, Aquatic Diversity with the Scientific Values of Geodiversity stood out. In Riacho do Meio, we highlight three positive associations among the variables; as for connectivity, Biodiversity and Meteorological and Climate Exposure presented the highest values and, as for strength, the variables Biodiversity, Route Classification, and Aquatic Diversity were the most prominent. We conclude, based on the presented configuration, that the variables with greater connectivity act as hubs; if these variables are optimized, the network will present an acceptable theoretical configuration. However, neglecting central strength variables can cause the network to collapse.
Latitudinal Characteristic Nodule Composition of Soybean-Nodulating Bradyrhizobia: Temperature-Dependent Proliferation in Soil or Infection?
Authors: Hafiz Md Hafizur Rahman , Salehin Ahsanul , Adachi Fumihiko , Omichi Masayuki , Saeki Yuichi , Yamamoto Akihiro , Hayashi Shohei , Itoh Kazuhito
Published: January 2021

A species-specific latitudinal distribution of soybean rhizobia has been reported; Bradyrhizobium japonicum and B. elkanii dominate in nodules in northern and southern areas, respectively. The aim of this study was to elucidate whether temperature-dependent proliferation in soil or infection is more reliable for determining the latitudinal characteristic distribution of soybean-nodulating rhizobia under local climate conditions. Three study locations, Fukagawa (temperate continental climate), Matsue and Miyazaki (humid sub-tropical climate), were selected in Japan. Each soil sample was transported to the other study locations, and soybean cv. Orihime (non-Rj) was pot-cultivated using three soils at three study locations for two successive years. Species composition of Bradyrhizobium in the nodules was analyzed based on the partial 16S rRNA and 16S–23S rRNA ITS gene sequences. Two Bradyrhizobium japonicum (Bj11 and BjS10J) clusters and one B. elkanii (BeL7) cluster were phylogenetically sub-grouped into two (Bj11-1-2) and four clusters (BjS10J-1-4) based on the ITS sequence. In the Fukagawa soil, Bj11-1 dominated (80–87%) in all study locations. In the Matsue soil, the composition was similar in the Matsue and Miyazaki locations, in which BeL7 dominated (70–73%), while in the Fukagawa location, BeL7 decreased to 53% and Bj11-1 and BjS10J-3 increased. In the Miyazaki soil, BeL7 dominated at 77%, and BeL7 decreased to 13% and 33% in the Fukagawa and Matsue locations, respectively, while BjS10J-2 and BjS10J-4 increased. It was supposed that the B. japonicum strain preferably proliferated in the Fukagawa location, leading to its nodule dominancy, while in the Miyazaki location, temperature-dependent infection would lead to the nodule dominancy of B. elkanii, and both factors would be involved in the Matsue location.
Nutraceutical Content and Daily Value Contribution of Sweet Potato Accessions for the European Market
Authors: Galvao Aline C. , Nicoletto Carlo , Zanin Giampaolo , Vargas Pablo F. , Sambo Paolo
Published: January 2021

Sweet potatoes (SPs) are considered by the FAO as a primary crop for “traditional agriculture” in the tropics, but in Europe, its consumption is not widespread. However, consumer demand has grown exponentially over the past five years. This study has evaluated the quality and nutrient contents of storage roots of 29 SPs accessions to characterize their role in improving the human diet. Roots were analyzed for nutraceuticals, sugars, and minerals. Results underlined a considerable variability of nutrient content related to color among SPs accessions. The deep-orange-fleshed SPs showed a higher content of β-carotene compared to the light orange- and cream-fleshed ones; 100 g of edible product of HON86 can supply 32.3% of the daily value contribution of vitamin A, followed by the pale orange-fleshed BRA32 and BRA54. The total phenolic content of the purple ecotypes was about two to five times higher than the other genotypes. The calcium content was generally low, whereas, in many accessions, magnesium and phosphorus content reached 20%, or higher of the contribution to the daily value. Such a high variability suggests different use of the different accessions according to their strengths, but might also be used for breeding to improve quality traits of the commercial varieties.
How Are We Managing Patients with Hyperuricemia and Gout: A Cross Sectional Study Assessing Knowledge and Attitudes of Primary Care Physicians?
Authors: Zuzic Furlan Sanja , Rusic Doris , Bozic Josko , Rumboldt Mirjana , Rumboldt Zvonko , Rada Marko , Tomicic Marion
Published: January 2021

Background: Studies show that hyperuricemia is an element of the pathophysiology of many conditions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess primary care physicians’ knowledge and attitudes toward asymptomatic hyperuricemia and gout management. Methods: A survey-based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the primary physicians’ attitudes, knowledge, and patient management regarding hyperuricemia and gout. Results: A total of 336 primary care physicians were included. Physicians who read at least one scientific paper covering the topic of hyperuricemia in the past year scored significantly higher in knowledge questions (N = 152, 6.5 ± 2.05 vs. N = 183, 7.04 ± 2.14, p = 0.019). Only around half of physicians correctly identified drugs that can lower or elevate serum uric acid levels. Furthermore, the analysis of correct answers to specific questions showed poor understanding of the pathophysiology of hyperuricemia and possible risk factors. Conclusions: This study identified gaps in primary care physicians’ knowledge essential for the adequate management of patients with asymptomatic hyperuricemia and gout. As hyperuricemia and gout are among the fastest rising non-communicable diseases, greater awareness of the available guidelines and more education about the causes and risks of hyperuricemia among primary care physicians may reduce the development of diseases that have hyperuricemia as risk factors.
Effects of Dispositional Resilience and Self-Efficacy on Practice in Advanced Care Planning of Terminally Ill Patients among Taiwanese Nurses: A Study Using Path Modeling
Authors: Pan Hsueh-Hsing , Wu Li-Fen , Chang Li-Fang , Hung Yu-Chun , Lin Chin , Ho Ching-Liang
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to expand on previous research elucidating the effects of dispositional resilience and self-efficacy on practice in advanced care planning (ACP) of terminally ill patients among Taiwanese nurses using path modeling. This cross-sectional study was conducted using cluster sampling. Data were collected using demographics, nurses’ knowledge, attitude, and practice of ACP (KAP-ACP) inventory, Dispositional Resilience Scale, and General Self-Efficacy Scale. A total of 266 nurses from a tertiary medical center in northern Taiwan participated in this study in 2019. The results showed that gender and ward were significant K-ACP predictors among nurses. The ACP knowledge, ward, and experience of caring for terminally ill friends or relatives were significant A-ACP predictors, whereas ACP attitudes, dispositional resilience, self-efficacy, ward, and the frequency of caring for terminally ill patients were the key predictors of P-ACP. The path modeling showed that dispositional resilience; self-efficacy; medical, surgical, hematology and oncology wards; previous experience in caring for terminally ill friends or relatives; participating in the do-not-resuscitate signature; and the frequency of caring for terminally ill patients directly influenced ACP practices. We recommend that nurses enhance their dispositional resilience and self-efficacy, which may encourage them to appreciate the value of ACP practice of terminally ill patients and improve the quality of care.
Distress and Resilience in Resettled Refugees of War: Implications for Screening
Authors: Hollifield Michael , Toolson Eric C. , Verbillis-Kolp Sasha , Farmer Beth , Yamazaki Junko , Woldehaimanot Tsegaba , Holland Annette
Published: January 2021

There is little work published about predictors of specific trajectory types of distress in refugees of war during early resettlement in a host country. Data about distress (Refugee Health Screener—15 (RHS-15)) and possible predictors of distress were collected at the domestic medical examination (T1) within 90 days of arrival and the civil surgeon examination (T2) 11–16 months after T1 for refugee groups from three countries (COU). Descriptive, correlative, analyses of variance, and regression techniques were used to determine trajectory type and their predictors. A higher percentage (7.3%) were distressed at T2 than at T1. By group, the Bhutanese became more distressed, the Burmese became less distressed, and Iraqi’s continued to have high distress. A regression model showed gender, loss, post-migration stress, and self-efficacy to be significant predictors of trajectory type (R2 = 0.46). When the T1 RHS-15 score was added to the model, observed variance increased (R2 = 0.53) and T1 RHS score accounted for the majority of variance (r = 0.64, p < 0.001), with post-migration stress accounting for markedly less (β = 0.19, p = 0.03). Loss and self-efficacy became less significant. Loss was, however, a strong predictor of delayed and chronic distress trajectory type. These data suggest that screening for distress should occur at least twice during resettlement to detect those with initial distress and those with delayed distress. Screening should be coupled with identifying other social determinants of health and a comprehensive assessment to determine the need for intervention for secondary prevention (i.e., reducing delayed distress) and treatment (reducing chronic distress).
Risk Factors for Fall-Related Serious Injury among Korean Adults: A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Kim Moon-Sook , Jung Hyun-Myung , Lee Hyo-Yeon , Kim Jinhyun
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors of serious fall-related injuries by analyzing the differences between two fall groups: one with serious fall-related injuries and one without such injuries. Applying a retrospective, descriptive investigation study design, we analyzed the degree of fall-related injury and the risk factors related to serious falls by conducting a complete survey of the medical records of fall patients reported throughout one full year, 2017, at a tertiary hospital in Seoul, Korea. Among the patients with reported falls, 188 sustained no injury (63.1%), 72 sustained minor injury (24.2%), and 38 patients sustained serious injury (12.8%). The serious fall-related injuries included eight lacerations requiring suture (2.7%), 23 fractures (7.7%), five brain injuries (1.7%), and two deaths (0.7%). Analysis results indicated that taking anticoagulants/antiplatelet drugs (p = 0.016) and having a fall history (p = 0.038) were statistically significant in the differences between the group with serious injury related to falls and the group without serious injury. Logistic regression revealed that taking anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs was the factor most significantly correlated with serious injuries related to falls (OR = 2.299, p = 0.022). Results show that it is necessary to develop a patient-tailored fall prevention activity program.
Bystanders’ Views on the Use of Automated External Defibrillators for Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Implications for Health Promotions
Authors: Chow Susan Ka Yee
Published: January 2021

Despite the widespread availability of automated external defibrillators, not everyone is enthusiastic about using them. The aim of this study was to examine the reasons for not using an automated external defibrillator (AED) and predictors of the reasons. The study had a cross-sectional design using an online survey. Data were collected in eighteen districts in Hong Kong to be representative of the city. The questionnaire consisted of questions on demographics, knowledge and attitude towards AED use, reasons for not using AED, and whether the kind of victim could affect the decision of the bystanders. There was a high significant correlation between knowledge and attitude, with r = 0.782 and p < 0.001. Of the respondents, 53.3% agreed that the kind of victim would affect their willingness to operate an AED. A binary logistic regression model revealed that a higher education (OR 6.242, 95% CI: 1.827–21.331), concern about the kind of victim involved (OR 2.822, 95% CI: 1.316–6.052), and a younger age were significant predictors of worrying about taking on responsibility in using AED. Other than knowledge, other barriers included a desire to avoid legal liability, and the kind of victim they encountered. Life experiences in adulthood could possibly affect the social responsibility and influence the behaviors of adults to operate AEDs.
Spatial Access Matters: An Analysis of Policy Change and Its Effects on Avoidable Infant Mortality in Portugal
Authors: Weiland Morgan , Santana Paula , Costa Claudia , Doetsch Julia , Pilot Eva
Published: January 2021

In 2006, a policy reform restructured the maternal and perinatal healthcare system, including closing smaller maternity units, to further improve care in Portugal. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the 2006 National Program of Maternal and Neonatal Health policy on spatial inequalities in access to care and consequently avoidable infant mortality. A thematic analysis of qualitative data including interviews and surveys and a quantitative spatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems was applied. Spatial inequalities were found which may lead to avoidable infant mortality. Inequalities exist in freedom of choice and autonomy in care, within a medicalized system. Changes in approach to and organization of care would further enhance equitable spatial access to care in maternal health and reduce avoidable infant mortality.
Incorporating Mental Health Research into Disaster Risk Reduction: An Online Training Module for the Hazards and Disaster Workforce
Authors: Evans Candace M. , Adams Rachel M. , Peek Lori
Published: January 2021

There is an expansive and growing body of literature that examines the mental health consequences of disasters and large-scale emergencies. There is a need, however, for more explicit incorporation of mental health research into disaster risk reduction practices. Training and education programs can serve as a bridge to connect academic mental health research and the work of disaster risk reduction practitioners. This article describes the development and evaluation of one such intervention, the CONVERGE Disaster Mental Health Training Module, which provides users from diverse academic and professional backgrounds with foundational knowledge on disaster mental health risk factors, mental health outcomes, and psychosocial well-being research. Moreover, the module helps bridge the gap between research and practice by describing methods used to study disaster mental health, showcasing examples of evidence-based programs and tools, and providing recommendations for future research. Since its initial release on 8 October 2019, 317 trainees from 12 countries have completed the Disaster Mental Health Training Module. All trainees completed a pre- and post-training questionnaire regarding their disaster mental health knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Wilcoxon Signed Rank tests demonstrated a significant increase in all three measures after completion of the training module. Students, emerging researchers or practitioners, and trainees with a high school/GED education level experienced the greatest benefit from the module, with Kruskal–Wallis results indicating significant differences in changes in knowledge and skills across the groups. This evaluation research highlights the effectiveness of the Disaster Mental Health Training Module in increasing knowledge, skills, and attitudes among trainees. This article concludes with a discussion of how this training can support workforce development and ultimately contribute to broader disaster risk reduction efforts.
Is Helping Really Helping? Health-Related Quality of Life after TBI Predicting Caregiver Depression Symptom Trajectories in Latin America
Authors: Ohayagha Chimdindu , Perrin Paul B. , Cariello Annahir N. , Arango-Lasprilla Juan Carlos
Published: January 2021

Previous research connecting health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and caregiver mental health has primarily been conducted cross-sectionally in the U.S. and Western Europe. This study, therefore, examined how HRQoL in individuals immediately after their TBI predicts longitudinal caregiver depression symptom trajectories in Latin America. A sample of 109 patients with an acute TBI and 109 caregivers (total n = 218) was recruited from three hospitals in Mexico City, Mexico, and in Cali and Neiva, Colombia. TBI patients reported their HRQoL while they were still in hospital, and caregivers reported their depression symptoms at the same time and at 2 and 4 months later. Hierarchal linear models (HLM) found that caregiver depression symptom scores decreased over time, and lower patient mental health and pain-related quality of life at baseline (higher pain) predicted higher overall caregiver depression symptom trajectories across the three time points. These findings suggest that in Latin America, there is an identifiable relationship between psychological and pain-related symptoms after TBI and caregiver depression symptom outcomes. The results highlight the importance of early detection of caregiver mental health needs based in part upon patient HRQoL and a culturally informed approach to rehabilitation services for Latin American TBI caregivers.
Ecological Compensation Standard of Trans-Boundary River Basin Based on Ecological Spillover Value: A Case Study for the Lancang–Mekong River Basin
Authors: Zhao Yue , Wu Feng-ping , Li Fang , Chen Xiang-nan , Xu Xia , Shao Zhi-ying
Published: January 2021

Ecological compensation is an effective means to solve the conflict of interests among trans-boundary river basin countries. How to determine the ecological compensation standard is the core of ecological compensation. On the basis of the emergy synthesis method, we developed an emergy-water resources ecological footprint model for trans-boundary river basin countries. Based on the calculation of ecosystem service value and consumption ecological value of trans-boundary river basin countries, the ecological spillover value of each basin country is obtained. From the perspective of supply and consumption, the ecological compensation standard in basin countries is determined by judging the supply and consumption status of ecological services and combining with the willingness to pay for ecological compensation. Taking the Lancang–Mekong River Basin as an example, the results show that (1) the ecosystem service value of the Lancang–Mekong River Basin countries from high to low is Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, China, Vietnam, and Myanmar; (2) in terms of ecosystem service value consumption, the order from high to low is Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Laos, and Myanmar; and (3) Thailand and Vietnam, located in the lower reaches of the basin, belong to the consumers of ecological services, and based on the actual willingness to pay, they need to pay $46.913 billion and $1.699 billion, respectively.
The Neonatal Environment and Health Outcomes (NEHO) Birth Cohort Study: Behavioral and Socioeconomic Characteristics and Drop-Out Rate from a Longitudinal Birth Cohort in Three Industrially Contaminated Sites in Southern Italy
Authors: Ruggieri Silvia , Maltese Sabina , Drago Gaspare , Cibella Fabio , Panunzi Simona
Published: January 2021

Pregnant women living in industrially contaminated sites (ICSs) are exposed to environmental contaminants through different pathways, and thus children’s health may be affected by pollutants. We created the Neonatal Environment and Health Outcomes (NEHO) longitudinal birth cohort in three ICSs in the Mediterranean area of southern Italy, collecting comprehensive information on personal data and lifestyles by questionnaire. Through multiple correspondence analysis, we identified possible clusters of enrolled women, and a neural network classifier analysis (NNCA) was performed to identify variables capable of predicting the attrition rate of the study. NEHO recruited 845 mother–child pairs over two years. The mothers’ mean age was 31.1 ± 5.2 SD years. We found significant differences in socioeconomic status (SES) among the three evaluated ICS, and an overall 11.1% prevalence of mothers who actively smoked during pregnancy. Active smoking during pregnancy was strongly associated with the lowest socioeconomic level (p < 0.0001). By means of the NNCA, we found that smoking during pregnancy and the lowest education level characterized the cluster with the highest attrition rate (p < 0.001). Our results demonstrate that reason for public health concern still exists regarding smoking during pregnancy and that SES influences both lifestyles, producing negative pregnancy outcomes and a higher survey attrition rate.
Gestational Exposure to Phthalates and Social Responsiveness Scores in Children Using Quantile Regression: The EARLI and HOME Studies
Authors: Patti Marisa A. , Newschaffer Craig , Eliot Melissa , Hamra Ghassan B. , Chen Aimin , Croen Lisa A. , Fallin M. Daniele , Hertz-Picciotto Irva , Kalloo Geetika , Khoury Jane C. , Lanphear Bruce P. , Lyall Kristen , Yolton Kimberly , Braun Joseph M.
Published: January 2021

Linear regression is often used to estimate associations between chemical exposures and neurodevelopment at the mean of the outcome. However, the potential effect of chemicals may be greater among individuals at the ‘tails’ of outcome distributions. Here, we investigated distributional effects on the associations between gestational phthalate exposure and child Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)-related behaviors using quantile regression. We harmonized data from the Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation (EARLI) (n = 140) Study, an enriched-risk cohort of mothers who had a child with ASD, and the Health Outcomes and Measures of the Environment (HOME) Study (n = 276), a general population cohort. We measured concentrations of 9 phthalate metabolites in urine samples collected twice during pregnancy. Caregivers reported children’s ASD-related behaviors using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) at age 3–8 years; higher scores indicate more ASD-related behaviors. In EARLI, associations between phthalate concentrations and SRS scores were predominately inverse or null across SRS score quantiles. In HOME, positive associations of mono-n-butyl phthalate, monobenzyl phthalate, mono-isobutyl phthalate, and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate concentrations with SRS scores increased in strength from the median to 95th percentile of SRS scores. These results suggest associations between phthalate concentrations and SRS scores may be stronger in individuals with higher SRS scores.
Plasmid Replicons for the Production of Pharmaceutical-Grade pDNA, Proteins and Antigens by Lactococcus lactis Cell Factories
Authors: Duarte Sofia O.D. , Monteiro Gabriel A.
Published: January 2021

The Lactococcus lactis bacterium found in different natural environments is traditionally associated with the fermented food industry. But recently, its applications have been spreading to the pharmaceutical industry, which has exploited its probiotic characteristics and is moving towards its use as cell factories for the production of added-value recombinant proteins and plasmid DNA (pDNA) for DNA vaccination, as a safer and industrially profitable alternative to the traditional Escherichia coli host. Additionally, due to its food-grade and generally recognized safe status, there have been an increasing number of studies about its use in live mucosal vaccination. In this review, we critically systematize the plasmid replicons available for the production of pharmaceutical-grade pDNA and recombinant proteins by L. lactis. A plasmid vector is an easily customized component when the goal is to engineer bacteria in order to produce a heterologous compound in industrially significant amounts, as an alternative to genomic DNA modifications. The additional burden to the cell depends on plasmid copy number and on the expression level, targeting location and type of protein expressed. For live mucosal vaccination applications, besides the presence of the necessary regulatory sequences, it is imperative that cells produce the antigen of interest in sufficient yields. The cell wall anchored antigens had shown more promising results in live mucosal vaccination studies, when compared with intracellular or secreted antigens. On the other side, engineering L. lactis to express membrane proteins, especially if they have a eukaryotic background, increases the overall cellular burden. The different alternative replicons for live mucosal vaccination, using L. lactis as the DNA vaccine carrier or the antigen producer, are critically reviewed, as a starting platform to choose or engineer the best vector for each application.
Urinary Levels of the Acrolein Conjugates of Carnosine Are Associated with Cardiovascular Disease Risk
Authors: O’Toole Timothy E. , Li Xiaohong , Riggs Daniel W. , Hoetker David J. , Baba Shahid P. , Bhatnagar Aruni
Published: January 2021

Carnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide (β-alanine-L-histidine) which supports physiological homeostasis by buffering intracellular pH, chelating metals, and conjugating with and neutralizing toxic aldehydes such as acrolein. However, it is not clear if carnosine can support cardiovascular function or modify cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. To examine this, we measured urinary levels of nonconjugated carnosine and its acrolein conjugates (carnosine-propanal and carnosine-propanol) in participants of the Louisville Healthy Heart Study and examined associations with indices of CVD risk. We found that nonconjugated carnosine was significantly associated with hypertension (p = 0.011), heart failure (p = 0.015), those categorized with high CVD risk (p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI; p = 0.007), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP; p = 0.026), high-density lipoprotein (HDL; p = 0.007) and certain medication uses. Levels of carnosine-propanal and carnosine-propanol demonstrated significant associations with BMI, blood glucose, HDL and diagnosis of diabetes. Carnosine-propanal was also associated with heart failure (p = 0.045) and hyperlipidemia (p = 0.002), but no associations with myocardial infarction or stroke were identified. We found that the positive associations of carnosine conjugates with diabetes and HDL remain statistically significant (p < 0.05) in an adjusted, linear regression model. These findings suggest that urinary levels of nonconjugated carnosine, carnosine-propanal and carnosine-propanol may be informative biomarkers for the assessment of CVD risk—and particularly reflective of skeletal muscle injury and carnosine depletion in diabetes.
Effects of Physiological Doses of Resveratrol and Quercetin on Glucose Metabolism in Primary Myotubes
Authors: Eseberri Itziar , Laurens Claire , Miranda Jonatan , Louche Katie , Lasa Arrate , Moro Cedric , Portillo Maria P.
Published: January 2021

Phenolic compounds have emerged in recent years as an option to face insulin resistance and diabetes. The central aim of this study was: (1) to demonstrate that physiological doses of resveratrol (RSV) or quercetin (Q) can influence glucose metabolism in human myotubes, (2) to establish whether AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and protein kinase B –PKB- (Akt) pathways are involved in this effect. In addition, the effects of these polyphenols on mitochondrial biogenesis and fatty acid oxidation were analysed. Myotubes from healthy donors were cultured for 24 h with either 0.1 μM of RSV or with 10 μM of Q. Glucose metabolism, such as glycogen synthesis, glucose oxidation, and lactate production, were measured with D[U-14C]glucose. β-oxidation using [1–14C]palmitate as well as the expression of key metabolic genes and proteins by Real Time PCR and Western blot were also assessed. Although RSV and Q increased pgc1α expression, they did not significantly change either glucose oxidation or β-oxidation. Q increased AMPK, insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), and AS160 phosphorylation in basal conditions and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3β) in insulin-stimulated conditions. RSV tended to increase the phosphorylation rates of AMPK and GSK3β. Both of the polyphenols increased insulin-stimulated glycogen synthesis and reduced lactate production in human myotubes. Thus, physiological doses of RSV or Q may exhibit anti-diabetic actions in human myotubes.