bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active Edible Packaging
Authors: Barbosa Cássia H. , Andrade Mariana A. , Vilarinho Fernanda , Fernando Ana Luísa , Silva Ana Sanches
Published: April 2021

Active edible packaging is a food packaging made of comestible bioproducts and active compounds that interacts with the food. The bioproducts, usually biopolymers, must be recognized as safe and with characteristics to be consumed by humans—comestible—and not toxic and capable of carrying an active compound, like anti-browning agents, colorants, flavors, nutrients, antimicrobial and/or antioxidant compounds, in order to extend the product shelf-life, reduce contamination and maintain or even enhance the nutritional value.
Cell-Free DNA Methylation as Blood-Based Biomarkers for Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma—A Literature Update
Authors: Henriksen Stine Dam , Thorlacius-Ussing Ole
Published: April 2021

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma has a horrible prognosis, which is partly due to difficulties in diagnosing the disease in an early stage. Additional blood-born biomarkers for pancreatic adenocarcinoma are needed. Epigenetic modifications, as changes in DNA methylation, is a fundamental part of carcinogenesis. The aim of this paper is to do an update on cell-free DNA methylation as blood-based biomarkers for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The current literature including our studies clearly indicates that cell-free DNA methylation has the potential as blood-based diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. However, still no clinical applicable biomarker for pancreatic adenocarcinoma based on DNA methylation do exist. Further well-designed validation studies are needed.
Peculiarities of Infiltration Measurements in Water-Repellent Forest Soil
Authors: Orfánus Tomáš , Zvala Anton , Čierniková Malvína , Stojkovová Dagmar , Nagy Viliam , Dlapa Pavel
Published: April 2021

The paper deals with measurements of water infiltration carried out on a well-developed forest floor formed by needle-leaf litter of Norway spruce. Three field methods (tension disk permeameter, single-ring infiltrometer and Guelph permeameter) were used to determine the soil hydraulic conductivity. The results were strongly influenced by the water repellency at the interface between the O- and A-horizons. This interface was severely water repellent during the hot and dry summer season, regardless of the generally humid mountain climate of the High Tatras foothill. The single-ring method paradoxically provided lower hydraulic conductivity (3.2 × 10−4 ± 1.3 × 10−4) compared to the tension disk permeameter (8.5 × 10−4 ± 3.3 × 10−4) due to the presence of the water-repellent O/A-interface. This effect was also observed with the Guelph permeameter method, which gave the lowest value (5.6 × 10−5 ± 4.3 × 10−5). Abrupt retardation of infiltration on the water-repellent interface may generate shallow subsurface runoff (as was proved by the irrigation experiment) or litter splash during extreme rainfall events and promote water flow to deeper soil horizons through preferential pathways. The observed effects of the forest floor on rainfall infiltration will depend on the seasonal variability of soil water repellency. Although the forest floor is a source of hydrophobic substances that cause water repellency at the O/A-interface and can trigger runoff generation, at the same time its cohesive duff layer protects the forest soil from erosion.
Rapid Changes in Ground Vegetation of Mature Boreal Forests—An Analysis of Swedish National Forest Inventory Data
Authors: Jonsson Bengt Gunnar , Dahlgren Jonas , Ekström Magnus , Esseen Per-Anders , Grafström Anton , Ståhl Göran , Westerlund Bertil
Published: April 2021

The boreal forest floor vegetation is critical for ecosystem functioning and an important part of forest biodiversity. Given the ongoing global change, knowledge on broad-scale changes in the composition and abundance of different plant species and species groups is hence important for both forest conservation and management. Here, we analyse permanent plot data from the National Forest Inventory (NFI) on changes in the vegetation over a 10-year period in four regions of Sweden. To limit the direct and relatively well-known effects of forest management and associated succession, we only included mature forest stands not influenced by forestry during the 10 years between inventories, and focused on vegetation change mainly related to other factors. Results show strong decrease among many species and species groups. This includes dominant species such as Vaccinimum myrtillus and Deschampsia flexuosa as well as several forest herbs. The only species increasing are some mosses in the southern regions. Our data do not allow for a causal interpretation of the observed patterns. However, the changes probably result from latent succession in combination with climate change and nitrogen deposition, and with time lags complicating the interpretation of their relative importance. Regardless of the cause, the observed changes are on a magnitude that suggest impacts on ecosystem functioning and hence highlight the need for more experimental work.
Differentiated Teaching Based on Standardized Metrics Integrating Fuzzy Logic Type 2 Detection Theory: High School Case—PrepaTec, Mexico
Authors: Sangermán Jiménez María Artemisa , Ponce Pedro
Published: April 2021

Universities and high schools constantly research and develop educational methods to improve the student learning process. This paper presents a novel educational methodology for students to obtain better learning results in Spanish grammar through an intervention that fuses differentiated instructions, standardized evaluation, and a Fuzzy Logic Type 2 system. This successful case study in a Mexico City high school reports improved Spanish grammar outcomes after the intervention. Before then, 79% of the students did not obtain satisfactory scores in a national Spanish evaluation. This educational methodology uses a flexible intervention plan that could be replicated or tailored for various educational scenarios and topics using the same framework.
ICT in Rural Areas from the Perspective of Dairy Farming: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vázquez-López Alba , Barrasa-Rioja Martín , Marey-Perez Manuel
Published: April 2021

This study presents a systematic review of 169 papers concerning the ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) related to rural areas, specifically to dairy farms. The objective was to delve into the relationship between dairy farmers and the administrative authorities via e-government, comparing this area to another eight concerning the farmer’s needs and expectations in relation to the ICT in different fields of their business. We observed that areas such as connectivity and digital inclusion are the most covered areas not only at the study level but also at the government level since countries all over the world are trying to develop politics to put an end to the so-called “digital divide,” which affects rural areas more intensely. This is increasing due to the growing technological innovations. The areas of the market, production, financial development, management and counseling, Smart Farming, and Internet of Things have been approached, associated with the ICT in dairy farms, showing in the latter two an increasing number of papers in the last few years. The area of public administration in relation to dairy farms has also been covered, being remarkable the low number of pieces of research concerning the interaction by the farmers, more specifically by dairy farmers, with the public administration, which is surprising due to the new global need and especially in the European Union (EU) of interacting with it telematically by all legal entities. The results show that there are still barriers to the implementation of the electronic government (e-government) since the websites do not meet the user’s expectations. Therefore, this study lays the ground for future research on this area. As a graphical abstract of the contributions of this paper, we present a graphic summary, where the different contributions by areas and expressed in percentage values are shown.
High-Moisture Meat Analogues Produced from Yellow Pea and Faba Bean Protein Isolates/Concentrate: Effect of Raw Material Composition and Extrusion Parameters on Texture Properties
Authors: Ferawati Ferawati , Zahari Izalin , Barman Malin , Hefni Mohammed , Ahlström Cecilia , Witthöft Cornelia , Östbring Karolina
Published: April 2021

Yellow pea and faba bean are potential candidates to replace soybean-based ingredients due to their suitability for cultivation in the northern hemisphere, non-genetically modified organisms cultivation practice and low risk of allergenicity. This study examined the functionality of local yellow pea and faba bean protein isolates/concentrate as meat analogue products. The most critical factors affecting the texture properties of meat analogue were also determined. Extrusion was used to produce high-moisture meat analogues (HMMAs) from yellow pea and faba bean protein isolates/concentrates and HMMAs with fibrous layered structures was successfully produced from both imported commercial and local sources. The texture properties of the HMMA produced were mainly affected by the ash, fiber and protein content and water-holding capacity of the source protein. Three extrusion process parameters (target moisture content, extrusion temperature, screw speed), also significantly affected HMMA texture. In conclusion, functional HMMA can be produced using protein isolates derived from locally grown pulses.
Tobacco Endgame Simulation Modelling: Assessing the Impact of Policy Changes on Smoking Prevalence in 2035
Authors: Chaiton Michael , Dubray Jolene , Guindon G. Emmanuel , Schwartz Robert
Published: April 2021

Smoking causes substantial amount of mortality and morbidity. This article presents the findings from simulation models that projected the impact of five potential Tobacco Endgame strategies on smoking prevalence in Ontario by 2035 and expected impact of smoking prevalence “less than 5 by 35” on tax revenue. We used Ontario SimSmoke simulation for modelling the expected impact of four strategies: plain packaging, free cessation services, decreasing the number of tobacco outlets, and increasing tobacco taxes. Separate models were used to project the impact of increasing the minimum age to legally purchase tobacco to 21 years on smoking prevalence and impact of price and tax increase to achieve “less than 5 by 35” on taxation revenue. The combined effect of four strategies in Ontario SimSmoke Model are expected to reduce smoking prevalence by 8.5% in 2035. Increasing tobacco taxes had the greatest independent predicted decrease in smoking prevalence (2.8%) followed by raised minimum age for legal purchase to 21 years (2.4%), decreasing tobacco outlets (1.5%), free cessation services (0.7%), and plain packaging (0.6%). Increasing tobacco excise tax and prices are projected to have minimal impact on taxation revenue, with a decrease from 1.5 billion to 1.2 billion annual tax receipts.
Approximate Controllability of Fully Nonlocal Stochastic Delay Control Problems Driven by Hybrid Noises
Authors: Yan Lixu , Fu Yongqiang
Published: April 2021

In this paper, a class of time-space fractional stochastic delay control problems with fractional noises and Poisson jumps in a bounded domain is considered. The proper function spaces and assumptions are proposed to discuss the existence of mild solutions. In particular, approximate strategy is used to obtain the existence of mild solutions for the problem with linear fractional noises; fixed point theorem is used to achieve the existence of mild solutions for the problem with nonlinear fractional noises. Finally, the approximate controllability of the problems with linear and nonlinear fractional noises is proved by the property of mild solutions.
Integration of Free Floating Car Sharing Systems in Rail Stations: A Web Based Data Analysis
Authors: Guirao Begoña , Molina-Sánchez Rafael , Ortuño Armando , Gálvez-Pérez Daniel
Published: April 2021

In the last decades, car sharing has been a tool for city planners to reduce private car traffic and pollution in big urban areas. The emergence of the ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies), together with the development of the collaborative economy, has allowed for the birth of the new Free-Floating Carsharing (FFCS): A more flexible type of carsharing, in which electric cars can be used. Little research has been devoted using real FFCS flows data, to the FFCS impacts on user behavior and even on the public transport system thus far. Furthermore, in big metropolitan areas, central rail stations should promote modal interchanges, including new modes of electric FFCS systems. The aim of this paper is to design a web-based platform to collect and analyze FFCS demand on the surrounding areas of rail stations and makes a proposal to provide these systems with electrical recharging energy obtained from the regenerative braking of high-speed trains. This case study includes Atocha and Chamartín Central Stations in Madrid (Spain). Scientific evidence shows a high demand of FFCS cars at central rail stations and a trip profile with a short time duration linked to the closest districts of rail stations.
The Effect of Disclosing Identities in a Socially Incentivized Public Good Game
Authors: Butz Britta , Harbring Christine
Published: April 2021

We investigate whether revealing the identities in a public good game that includes a donation incentive leads to higher contributions to the public good. Previous evidence suggests that contributions to a public good increase significantly when these take place in public. Also, the amount of money given in charitable donations seems to be sensitive to the revealing of identities. Using a laboratory experiment, we implement a 20% donation share that is dependent on participants’ contributions to a public good. The donation is either costless (because it is financed by the experimenter) or deducted from a team’s contributions. In both settings, we explore whether informing participants that group members’ identities will be disclosed at the end of the experiment leads to higher contributions to the public good. Non-parametric statistics indicate that when donations are costly for the participants, the announcement of subsequent identity disclosure results in significantly higher contributions in the second half of the repeated public good game. In contrast, revealing identities in settings with costless donations reduces contributions to the public good significantly. The regression results indicate that conditional cooperators might be one subgroup driving these results.
Systematic Modification of the Glass Transition Temperature of Ion-Pair Comonomer Based Polyelectrolytes and Ionomers by Copolymerization with a Chemically Similar Cationic Monomer
Authors: Deng Guodong , Schoch Timothy D. , Cavicchi Kevin A.
Published: April 2021

Ion-pair comonomers (IPCs) where both the anion and cation contain polymerizable functional groups offer a route to prepare polyampholyte, ion-containing polymers. Polymerizing vinyl functional groups by free-radical polymerization produces bridging ion-pairs that act as non-covalent crosslinks between backbone segments. In particular the homopolymerization of the IPC vinyl benzyl tri-n-octylphosphonium styrene sulfonate produces a stiff, glassy polymer with a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 191 °C, while copolymerization with a non-ionic acrylate produces microphase separates ionomers with ion-rich and ion-poor domains. This work investigates the tuning of the Tg of the polyelectrolyte or ion-rich domains of the ionomers by copolymerizing with vinyl benzyl tri-n-octylphosphonium p-toluene sulfonic acid. This chemically similar repeat unit with pendant rather than bridging ion-pairs lowers the Tg compared to the polyelectrolyte or ionomer containing only the IPC segments. Rheological measurements were used to characterize the thermomechanical behavior and Tg of different copolymers. The Tg variation in the polyelectrolyte vs. weight fraction IPC could be fit with either the Gordon–Taylor or Couchman–Karasz equation. Copolymerization of IPC with a chemically similar cationic monomer offers a viable route to systematically vary the Tg of the resulting polymers useful for tailoring the material properties in applications such as elastomers or shape memory polymers.
The Passive Body and States of Nature: An Examination of the Methodological Role State of Nature Theory Plays in Williams and Nietzsche
Authors: Lightbody Brian
Published: April 2021

In his work Truth and Truthfulness, Bernard Williams offers a very different interpretation of philosophical genealogy than that expounded in the secondary literature. The “Received View” of genealogy holds that it is “documentary grey”: it attempts to provide historically well-supported, coherent, but defeasible explanations for the actual transformation of practices, values, and emotions in history. However, paradoxically, the standard interpretation also holds another principle. Genealogies are nevertheless polemical because they admit that any evidence that would serve to justify a genealogical account is indexical to a perspective. In short, genealogies are not true per se. This view of genealogy leaves it vulnerable to three criticisms. I call these three: (1) the reflexive, (2) the substantive, and (3) the semantic. In contrast, Williams argues that all genealogies provide a functional account for the manifestation of something and further, that a State of Nature story subtends these accounts. The upshot of Williams’ approach is that it makes for strange philosophical bedfellows. For example, Nietzsche’s account for the rise of Christian morality shares methodological features with Hobbes’ functional explanation for the emergence of civilization and yet Nietzsche seems to take issue with genealogists who are hypothesis mongers gazing haphazardly into the blue. In the following article, I flesh out, more fully, how to make sense of Williams’ novel reclassification of genealogy. I show that Nietzsche’s genealogies are State of Nature stories and, just like Hobbes’ State of Nature story in chapter thirteen of Leviathan, are subtended by our collective corporeality. I then demonstrate how Nietzsche’s three stories in the Genealogy, when brought together, serve to undermine what Williams refers to as “… a new system (of reasons)—which very powerfully resists being understood in such terms …” Finally, I explain how my reconstruction of Williams’ interpretation of the genealogy immunizes it against the three criticisms noted above.
Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease Modifiers and Their Relevance in the New Era of Precision Medicine
Authors: Sepahzad Afsoon , Morris-Rosendahl Deborah J. , Davies Jane C.
Published: April 2021

Our understanding of cystic fibrosis (CF) has grown exponentially since the discovery of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene in 1989. With evolving genetic and genomic tools, we have come to better understand the role of CFTR genotypes in the pathophysiology of the disease. This, in turn, has paved the way for the development of modulator therapies targeted at mutations in the CFTR, which are arguably one of the greatest advances in the treatment of CF. These modulator therapies, however, do not target all the mutations in CFTR that are seen in patients with CF and, furthermore, a variation in response is seen in patients with the same genotype who are taking modulator therapies. There is growing evidence to support the role of non-CFTR modifiers, both genetic and environmental, in determining the variation seen in CF morbidity and mortality and also in the response to existing therapies. This review focusses on key findings from studies using candidate gene and genome-wide approaches to identify CF modifier genes of lung disease in cystic fibrosis and considers the interaction between modifiers and the response to modulator therapies. As the use of modulator therapies expands and we gain data around outcomes, it will be of great interest to investigate this interaction further. Going forward, it will also be crucial to better understand the relative influence of genomic versus environmental factors. With this understanding, we can truly begin to deliver personalised care by better profiling the likely disease phenotype for each patient and their response to treatment.
Genome Size Diversity in Rare, Endangered, and Protected Orchids in Poland
Authors: Rewers Monika , Jedrzejczyk Iwona , Rewicz Agnieszka , Jakubska-Busse Anna
Published: April 2021

Orchidaceae is one of the largest and the most widespread plant families with many species threatened with extinction. However, only about 1.5% of orchids’ genome sizes have been known so far. The aim of this study was to estimate the genome size of 15 species and one infraspecific taxon of endangered and protected orchids growing wild in Poland to assess their variability and develop additional criterion useful in orchid species identification and characterization. Flow cytometric genome size estimation revealed that investigated orchid species possessed intermediate, large, and very large genomes. The smallest 2C DNA content possessed Liparis loeselii (14.15 pg), while the largest Cypripedium calceolus (82.10 pg). It was confirmed that the genome size is characteristic to the subfamily. Additionally, for four species Epipactis albensis, Ophrys insectifera, Orchis mascula, Orchis militaris and one infraspecific taxon, Epipactis purpurata f. chlorophylla the 2C DNA content has been estimated for the first time. Genome size estimation by flow cytometry proved to be a useful auxiliary method for quick orchid species identification and characterization.
OTUs and ASVs Produce Comparable Taxonomic and Diversity from Shrimp Microbiota 16S Profiles Using Tailored Abundance Filters
Authors: García-López Rodrigo , Cornejo-Granados Fernanda , Lopez-Zavala Alonso A. , Cota-Huízar Andrés , Sotelo-Mundo Rogerio R. , Gómez-Gil Bruno , Ochoa-Leyva Adrian
Published: April 2021

The interplay between shrimp immune system, its environment, and microbiota contributes to the organism’s homeostasis and optimal production. The metagenomic composition is typically studied using 16S rDNA profiling by clustering amplicon sequences into operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and, more recently, amplicon sequence variants (ASVs). Establish the compatibility of the taxonomy, α, and β diversity described by both methods is necessary to compare past and future shrimp microbiota studies. Here, we used identical sequences to survey the V3 16S hypervariable-region using 97% and 99% OTUs and ASVs to assess the hepatopancreas and intestine microbiota of L. vannamei from two ponds under standardized rearing conditions. We found that applying filters to retain clusters >0.1% of the total abundance per sample enabled a consistent taxonomy comparison while preserving >94% of the total reads. The three sets turned comparable at the family level, whereas the 97% identity OTU set produced divergent genus and species profiles. Interestingly, the detection of organ and pond variations was robust to the clustering method’s choice, producing comparable α and β-diversity profiles. For comparisons on shrimp microbiota between past and future studies, we strongly recommend that ASVs be compared at the family level to 97% identity OTUs or use 99% identity OTUs, both using tailored frequency filters.
Deepening of In Silico Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 Detection RT-qPCR Assays in the Context of New Variants
Authors: Gand Mathieu , Vanneste Kevin , Thomas Isabelle , Van Gucht Steven , Capron Arnaud , Herman Philippe , Roosens Nancy H. C. , De Keersmaecker Sigrid C. J.
Published: April 2021

For 1 year now, the world is undergoing a coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic due to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The most widely used method for COVID-19 diagnosis is the detection of viral RNA by RT-qPCR with a specific set of primers and probe. It is important to frequently evaluate the performance of these tests and this can be done first by an in silico approach. Previously, we reported some mismatches between the oligonucleotides of publicly available RT-qPCR assays and SARS-CoV-2 genomes collected from GISAID and NCBI, potentially impacting proper detection of the virus. In the present study, 11 primers and probe sets investigated during the first study were evaluated again with 84,305 new SARS-CoV-2 unique genomes collected between June 2020 and January 2021. The lower inclusivity of the China CDC assay targeting the gene N has continued to decrease with new mismatches detected, whereas the other evaluated assays kept their inclusivity above 99%. Additionally, some mutations specific to new SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern were found to be located in oligonucleotide annealing sites. This might impact the strategy to be considered for future SARS-CoV-2 testing. Given the potential threat of the new variants, it is crucial to assess if they can still be correctly targeted by the primers and probes of the RT-qPCR assays. Our study highlights that considering the evolution of the virus and the emergence of new variants, an in silico (re-)evaluation should be performed on a regular basis. Ideally, this should be done for all the RT-qPCR assays employed for SARS-CoV-2 detection, including also commercial tests, although the primer and probe sequences used in these kits are rarely disclosed, which impedes independent performance evaluation.
Identification of Novel Candidate Genes and Variants for Hearing Loss and Temporal Bone Anomalies
Authors: Santos-Cortez Regie Lyn P. , Yarza Talitha Karisse L. , Bootpetch Tori C. , Tantoco Ma. Leah C. , Mohlke Karen L. , Cruz Teresa Luisa G. , Chiong Perez Mary Ellen , Chan Abner L. , Lee Nanette R. , Tobias-Grasso Celina Ann M. , Reyes-Quintos Maria Rina T. , Cutiongco-de la Paz Eva Maria , Chiong Charlotte M.
Published: April 2021

Background: Hearing loss remains an important global health problem that is potentially addressed through early identification of a genetic etiology, which helps to predict outcomes of hearing rehabilitation such as cochlear implantation and also to mitigate the long-term effects of comorbidities. The identification of variants for hearing loss and detailed descriptions of clinical phenotypes in patients from various populations are needed to improve the utility of clinical genetic screening for hearing loss. Methods: Clinical and exome data from 15 children with hearing loss were reviewed. Standard tools for annotating variants were used and rare, putatively deleterious variants were selected from the exome data. Results: In 15 children, 21 rare damaging variants in 17 genes were identified, including: 14 known hearing loss or neurodevelopmental genes, 11 of which had novel variants; and three candidate genes IST1, CBLN3 and GDPD5, two of which were identified in children with both hearing loss and enlarged vestibular aqueducts. Patients with variants within IST1 and MYO18B had poorer outcomes after cochlear implantation. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the importance of identifying novel variants and genes in ethnic groups that are understudied for hearing loss.
‘Muzak for Frogs’—Representations of ‘Nature’ in Decoder (1984)
Authors: Hanser Eva-Maria
Published: April 2021

This paper examines the various representations of ‘nature’ present in Decoder (1984), a German experimental cyberpunk film that was inspired by William S. Burroughs’ thoughts on utilising tapes as revolutionary weapons. Though Decoder is not a film one would easily associate with labels, such as ‘green’ or ‘environmental’, signs and images that represent or refer to ‘nature’ and non-human life are not omitted. Through a close reading of the film, the paper first explores the ways in which these representations convey and evoke certain meanings and associations and then elucidates the themes at play in the context of these representations.
Asymptomatic Cases, the Hidden Challenge in Predicting COVID-19 Caseload Increases
Authors: Snider Brett , Patel Bhumi , McBean Edward
Published: April 2021

The numbers of novel coronavirus cases continue to grow at an unprecedented rate across the world. Attempts to control the growth of the virus using masks and social-distancing, and, recently, double-masking as well, continue to be difficult to maintain, in part due to the extent of asymptomatic cases. Analyses of large datasets consisting of 219,075 individual cases in Ontario, indicated that asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic cases are substantial in number. Large numbers of cases in children aged 0–9 were asymptomatic or had only one symptom (35.0% and 31.4% of total cases, respectively) and resulted in fever as the most common symptom (30.6% of total cases). COVID-19 cases in children were more likely to be milder symptomatic with cough not seen as frequently as in adults aged over 40, and past research has shown children to be index cases in familial clusters. These findings highlight the importance of targeting asymptomatic and mild infections in the continuing effort to control the spread of COVID-19. The Pearson correlation coefficient between test positivity rates and asymptomatic rates of −0.729 indicates that estimates of the asymptomatic rates should be obtained when the test positivity rates are lowest as the best approach.
Protocol of the Study on Emergency Health Care Workers’ Responses Evaluated by Karasek Questionnaire: The SEEK-Study Protocol
Authors: Bouillon-Minois Jean-Baptiste , Trousselard Marion , Pereira Bruno , Schmidt Jeannot , Clinchamps Maelys , Thivel David , Ugbolue Ukadike Chris , Moustafa Farès , Occelli Céline , Vallet Guillaume , Dutheil Frédéric
Published: April 2021

Background: Stress is a significant public health concern that can be self-evaluated using the job control demands model from Karasek. Emergency health care workers are particularly exposed to stress because of the intrinsic characteristics associated with the job (i.e., life-threatening emergencies, overcrowding, lack of bed spaces). However, these attributes have never been studied using the Karasek model. Methods: An observational, prospective, multicentric study in French Emergency Departments will be conducted using a cohort of emergency health care workers. Four questionnaires before a control day and after a nightshift will be assessed every 5 years in the same emergency departments. Also, the Karasek questionnaire, a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Maslach Burnout Inventory scale, the Hospital Anxiety, Depression Scale, and a food intake questionnaire will be evaluated. Salivary biomarkers (cortisol, immunoglobulin A, lysozyme) will be collected from every emergency health care worker who consents to participating in the study. Conclusion: This study will provide a point of care for the emergency health care workers’ stress situation every 5 years. Ethics: This protocol was registered in Clinical Trials under the identification NCT02401607 after the French Ethics Committee’s approval.
Exploring Residents’ Purchase Intention of Green Housings in China: An Extended Perspective of Perceived Value
Authors: Zhao Shiwen , Chen Liwen
Published: April 2021

The promotion of green housings (GHs) is considered a potentially effective way to save energy, reduce air pollution, and promote industrial upgrading. However, the low level of public acceptance of GHs leads to insufficient GH market penetration in China. Thus, it is significant to explore GH purchase decisions to understand and enhance the market demand for GHs effectively. From an extended perspective of perceived value, this study proposes a comprehensive research model that integrates residents’ perceptions and personal traits to examine the influencing mechanism of residents’ intention to purchase GHs. The proposed model is empirically tested using data collected from 728 urban residents in China. The results reveal that perceived value is a crucial predictor of GH purchase intention. All dimensions of perceived benefits—including perceived functional benefits, perceived emotional benefits, perceived green benefits, and perceived social benefits—have a positive influence on perceived value, while perceived performance risks have a negative influence on perceived value. Two types of personal traits, namely, environmental concern and social trust, significantly affect residents’ perceived benefits and perceived risks. The findings contribute to a more in-depth analysis of the effects of residents’ perceptions and personal traits on GH purchase behavior. Furthermore, suggestions for policymakers and developers on popularizing GHs are proposed.
Lung Damage Caused by Heated Tobacco Products and Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bravo-Gutiérrez Omar Andrés , Falfán-Valencia Ramcés , Ramírez-Venegas Alejandra , Sansores Raúl H. , Ponciano-Rodríguez Guadalupe , Pérez-Rubio Gloria
Published: April 2021

The tobacco industry promotes electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and heated tobacco products (HTP) as a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes with misleading marketing sustained by studies with conflict of interest. As a result, these devices sell without regulations and warnings about their adverse effects on health, with a growing user base targeting young people. This systematic review aimed to describe the adverse effects on the respiratory system in consumers of these devices. We conducted a systematic review and bibliometric analysis of 79 studies without conflict of interest evaluating ENDS and HTP effects in the respiratory system in experimental models, retrieved from the PubMed database. We found that the damage produced by using these devices is involved in pathways related to pulmonary diseases, involving mechanisms previously reported in conventional cigarettes as well as new mechanisms particular to these devices, which challenges that the tobacco industry’s claims. The present study provides significant evidence to suggest that these devices are an emerging public health problem and that they should be regulated or avoided.
A Phenomenological Study of Mental Health Enhancement in Taekwondo Training: Application of Catharsis Theory
Authors: Bing Won-Chul , Kim Soo-Jung
Published: April 2021

In modern society, catharsis is often understood as the relieving of stress, and the psychological and medical effects of catharsis are well known even to ordinary people. There are many studies showing that physical activity is a good tool for managing and promoting mental health. However, there are not many studies on Taekwondo training and catharsis. Therefore, we conducted a study explaining catharsis as mental health promotion in Taekwondo training. This study explores mental health enhancement of Taekwondo training by using a phenomenological methodology. Phenomenology is a theory that seeks to understand an individual’s recognition of their own subjectivity rather than explaining objective factors about an individual. We collected data from interviews with 12 students who had been members of a university Taekwondo demonstration team. The phenomenological results were expressed as six themes: (1) vicarious purgation of repressed emotions, (2) emotional catharsis through pity and fear, (3) catharsis from ethics, (4) catharsis through mimesis, (5) catharsis from vicarious satisfaction through teammates, (6) catharsis from being the object of envy. Taekwondo, a traditional Korean martial art, is a physical activity that allows people to experience catharsis, which is a mental health effect of sports.
Fall 2020 COVID-19 Needs Assessment among New Jersey Secondary School Educational Professionals
Authors: Shendell Derek G. , Aggarwal Juhi , Campbell Maryanne L. F. , Gonzalez Lauren N. , Kaplun Elizabeth , Koshy Koshy , Mackie Thomas I.
Published: April 2021

Secondary or high school (HS) educational professionals expressed concerns about dealing with environmental and occupational health and safety protocols due to COVID-19. Concerns related to fall 2020 school re-opening and getting back into in-person teaching—whether full-time, part-time or some other approved hybrid model—plus ongoing uncertainty with how the state and federal government will be handling matters about mandates for virtual learning, rapid testing, vaccine distribution, etc. These concerns were related to both their experience as educational professionals and genuine interest in personal and student well-being. This study was a cross-sectional online survey in early fall from mid-September–early October 2020. Of a possible maximum participation of 740 New Jersey (NJ) supervisory-level HS teachers and administrators (e.g., department chairs, district and school principals), 100 confirmed unique respondents (13.5%) consented and completed the survey. Of 100 experienced (mean 18 years teaching) participants, 70% responded to the gender identity question (overall, 61% female, 39% male; by NJ region, gender ratios were similar). There were statistically significant differences (using Fischer’s exact test) between NJ regions regarding provision of online counseling and support services for teachers (p < 0.001); for resources and equipment for teachers to mediate online learning (p = 0.02); for assistive video technology tools (p = 0.03) and accessibility to structured online learning and professional development (p = 0.002); concerning learning aids to engage students in online instruction, online counseling, and support services for students and their families (p = 0.006); appropriate protocol is clean and disinfect areas used by a person with COVID-19 (p = 0.002); and, immediately separate staff and students who screen positive for COVID-19 (p = 0.03). There were few statistical differences by gender. This study reported what participants wanted regarding the development of future policies then implemented as reopening practices. Data can inform recommendations in NJ and elsewhere at federal, state, and local levels. Data provide new insights and valuable information to inform the consideration of acceptability of various policy measures among HS education professionals.
Can Public Spaces Effectively Be Used as Cleaner Indoor Air Shelters during Extreme Smoke Events?
Authors: Wheeler Amanda J. , Allen Ryan W. , Lawrence Kerryn , Roulston Christopher T. , Powell Jennifer , Williamson Grant J. , Jones Penelope J. , Reisen Fabienne , Morgan Geoffrey G. , Johnston Fay H.
Published: April 2021

During extreme air pollution events, such as bushfires, public health agencies often recommend that vulnerable individuals visit a nearby public building with central air conditioning to reduce their exposure to smoke. However, there is limited evidence that these “cleaner indoor air shelters” reduce exposure or health risks. We quantified the impact of a “cleaner indoor air shelter” in a public library in Port Macquarie, NSW, Australia when concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) were elevated during a local peat fire and nearby bushfires. Specifically, we evaluated the air quality improvements with central air conditioning only and with the use of portable high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter air cleaners. We measured PM2.5 from August 2019 until February 2020 by deploying pairs of low-cost PM2.5 sensors (i) inside the main library, (ii) in a smaller media room inside the library, (iii) outside the library, and (iv) co-located with regulatory monitors located in the town. We operated two HEPA cleaners in the media room from August until October 2019. We quantified the infiltration efficiency of outdoor PM2.5 concentrations, defined as the fraction of the outdoor PM2.5 concentration that penetrates indoors and remains suspended, as well as the additional effect of HEPA cleaners on PM2.5 concentrations. The infiltration efficiency of outdoor PM2.5 into the air-conditioned main library was 30%, meaning that compared to the PM2.5 concentration outdoors, the concentrations of outdoor-generated PM2.5 indoors were reduced by 70%. In the media room, when the HEPA cleaners were operating, PM2.5 concentrations were reduced further with a PM2.5 infiltration efficiency of 17%. A carefully selected air-conditioned public building could be used as a cleaner indoor air shelter during episodes of elevated smoke emissions. Further improvements in indoor air quality within the building can be achieved by operating appropriately sized HEPA cleaners.
Social Inequalities in Health Determinants in Spanish Children during the COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: González-Rábago Yolanda , Cabezas-Rodríguez Andrea , Martín Unai
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 lockdown was imposed in a context of notable inequalities in the distribution of the social determinants of health. It is possible that the housing conditions in which children and their families experienced the confinement, and the adoption of healthy behaviors, may have followed unequal patterns. The aim was to describe social inequalities in housing conditions and in health-related behaviors among children during the lockdown in Spain. This cross-sectional study was based on data from an online survey collecting information on the child population (3–12 years) living in Spain (n = 10,765). The outcome variables used were several housing conditions and health-related behaviors. The socioeconomic variables used were financial difficulties and parents’ educational level. Crude prevalence and prevalence ratios estimated using Poisson models were calculated. During lockdown, children from families with low educational levels and financial difficulties not only tended to live in poor housing conditions, but were also exposed to negative health determinants such as noise and tobacco smoke; they took less physical exercise, had a poorer diet, spent more time in front of screens and had less social contact. A notable social gradient was found in most of the variables analyzed. The results point to the need to incorporate the perspective of equity in the adoption of policies in order to avoid the increase of pre-existing social inequalities in the context of a pandemic.
Which Green Space Metric Best Predicts a Lowered Odds of Type 2 Diabetes?
Authors: Mazumdar Soumya , Chong Shanley , Astell-Burt Thomas , Feng Xiaoqi , Morgan Geoffrey , Jalaludin Bin
Published: April 2021

The choice of a green space metric may affect what relationship is found with health outcomes. In this research, we investigated the relationship between percent green space area, a novel metric developed by us (based on the average contiguous green space area a spatial buffer has contact with), in three different types of buffers and type 2 diabetes (T2D). We obtained information about diagnosed T2D and relevant covariates at the individual level from the large and representative 45 and Up Study. Average contiguous green space and the percentage of green space within 500 m, 1 km, and 2 km of circular buffer, line-based road network (LBRN) buffers, and polygon-based road network (PBRN) buffers around participants’ residences were used as proxies for geographic access to green space. Generalized estimating equation regression models were used to determine associations between access to green space and T2D status of individuals. It was found that 30%–40% green space within 500 m LBRN or PBRN buffers, and 2 km PBRN buffers, but not within circular buffers, significantly reduced the risk of T2D. The novel average green space area metric did not appear to be particularly effective at measuring reductions in T2D. This study complements an existing research body on optimal buffers for green space measurement.
Tracking Technical Skill Development in Young Basketball Players: The INEX Study
Authors: Guimarães Eduardo , Baxter-Jones Adam D. G. , Williams A. Mark , Tavares Fernando , Janeira Manuel A. , Maia José
Published: April 2021

This study investigated developmental stability, or tracking, in the development of technical skills in youth male basketball players and retrospectively profiled stable and unstable tracking patterns over time. A total of 97 basketball players were tracked bi-annually over 3 consecutive years. Players were divided into two age-categories according to their age at baseline: under-12; and under-14. Technical skills were assessed using the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance test battery. Anthropometric, body composition, biological maturation and physical performance data were collected. Cohen’s kappa (κ) was used to estimate tracking. With the exception of defensive movement in the under-12 age-category, tracking was low in all skill tests for both under-12 (0.22 ≤ κ ≤ 0.33) and -14 (0.20 ≤ κ ≤ 0.26) groupings. The overall technical skill showed moderate tracking for under-12 players (κ = 0.47) and low tracking for under-14 players (κ = 0.26). At baseline, players who were consistently more skilled or became more skillful (in the under-12 age-category) over time had a better growth-motor performance profile and most of them were selected to be members of regional teams. In conclusion, tracking of individual skill trajectories was low-to-moderate. Moreover, a better growth-motor performance profile seems crucial to maintain high levels of skill performance over time. It is recommended that basketball coaches track the developmental trajectories of their players to better understand the erratic nature of skill development and help design more effective practice regimes.
To Adapt or Not to Adapt: The Association between Implementation Fidelity and the Effectiveness of Diabetes Self-Management Education
Authors: Schinckus Louise , Van den Broucke Stephan , van der Zanden Gerard , Levin-Zamir Diane , Mueller Gabriele , Riemenschneider Henna , Hayter Victoria , Yardley Lucy , Schillinger Dean , Doyle Gerardine , Ganahl Kristin , Pelikan Jürgen , Chang Peter
Published: April 2021

Self-management education (SME) is a key determinant of diabetes treatment outcomes. While SME programs are often adapted for implementation, the impact of adaptations on diabetes SME effectiveness is not well documented. This study evaluated the impact of the implementation fidelity of diabetes SME programs on program effectiveness, exploring which factors influence implementation fidelity. Data from 33 type 2 diabetes SME program providers and 166 patients were collected in 8 countries (Austria, Belgium, Germany, Ireland, UK, Israel, Taiwan and USA). Program providers completed a questionnaire assessing their adherence to the program protocol and factors that influenced the implementation. Patients answered a pre–post questionnaire assessing their diabetes-related health literacy, self-care behavior, general health and well-being. Associations between implementation fidelity and outcomes were estimated through logistic regressions and repeated measures MANOVA, controlling for potential confounders. Adaptations of the program protocol regarding content, duration, frequency and/or coverage were reported by 39% of the providers and were associated with better, not worse, outcomes than strict adherence. None of the factors related to the participants, facilitating strategies, provider or context systematically influenced the implementation fidelity. Future research should focus on individual and contextual factors that may influence decisions to adapt SME programs for diabetes.