bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acoustic Noise Computation of Electrical Motors Using the Boundary Element Method
Authors: Sathyan Sabin , Aydin Ugur , Belahcen Anouar
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a numerical method and computational results for acoustic noise of electromagnetic origin generated by an induction motor. The computation of noise incorporates three levels of numerical calculation steps, combining both the finite element method and boundary element method. The role of magnetic forces in the production of acoustic noise is established in the paper by showing the magneto-mechanical and vibro-acoustic pathway of energy. The conversion of electrical energy into acoustic energy in an electrical motor through electromagnetic, mechanical, or acoustic platforms is illustrated through numerical computations of magnetic forces, mechanical deformation, and acoustic noise. The magnetic forces were computed through 2D electromagnetic finite element simulation, and the deformation of the stator due to these forces was calculated using 3D structural finite element simulation. Finally, boundary element-based computation was employed to calculate the sound pressure and sound power level in decibels. The use of the boundary element method instead of the finite element method in acoustic computation reduces the computational cost because, unlike finite element analysis, the boundary element approach does not require heavy meshing to model the air surrounding the motor.
Review on Life Cycle Assessment of Solar Photovoltaic Panels
Authors: Muteri Vincenzo , Cellura Maurizio , Curto Domenico , Franzitta Vincenzo , Longo Sonia , Mistretta Marina , Parisi Maria Laura
Published: January 2020

The photovoltaic (PV) sector has undergone both major expansion and evolution over the last decades, and currently, the technologies already marketed or still in the laboratory/research phase are numerous and very different. Likewise, in order to assess the energy and environmental impacts of these devices, life cycle assessment (LCA) studies related to these systems are always increasing. The objective of this paper is to summarize and update the current literature of LCA applied to different types of grid-connected PV, as well as to critically analyze the results related to energy and environmental impacts generated during the life cycle of PV technologies, from 1st generation (traditional silicon based) up to the third generation (innovative non-silicon based). Most of the results regarded energy indices like energy payback time, cumulative energy demand, and primary energy demand, while environmental indices were variable based on different scopes and impact assessment methods. Moreover, the review work allowed to highlight and compare key parameters (PV type and system, geographical location, efficiency), methodological insights (functional unit, system boundaries, etc.), and energy/environmental hotspots of 39 LCA studies relating to different PV systems, in order to underline the importance of these aspects, and to provide information and a basis of comparison for future analyses.
Continuing Trends in Popular Holocaust Fiction: Heather Morris and the Corporealization of Women’s Suffering
Authors: Dickson David
Published: January 2020

This article explores the problematic representation of female sufferers in works of fiction relating to the Holocaust. Specifically, I contend that modern fiction fails to engage with the moral and emotional complexity of wartime sexual compromise and instead replaces a cognitive understanding of history with a bodily connection to women’s wartime pain. I do so by focusing on Heather Morris’s two Holocaust-themed texts: The Tattooist of Auschwitz (2018) and Cilka’s Journey (2019). Morris, the article contends, cannot connect to the psychological or moral reality of Cilka’s wartime abuse and so instead focuses on the corporealization of her suffering. Having established the existence of the trend in Morris’s fiction, the article then also addresses Morris’s associated need to morally contextualise Cilka’s actions. In order to maintain her connection with Cilka’s body, I assert, Morris must frame Cilka’s actions using the incompatible morality of the post-war present day. To provide the character with depth would block Morris’s engagement with Cilka’s body as a post-memorial nonwitness. This is profoundly problematic as, rather than informing our understanding of the Holocaust past, Morris merely perpetuates a view of the event that is objectifying, de-humanising and frequently misogynistic.
Geological Heritage of the Anthropocene Epoch—A Conceptual Viewpoint
Authors: Ruban Dmitry A.
Published: January 2020

The growth of interest in the Anthropocene has coincided with the rise of geoheritage research and these ideas seem to be mutually enriching. However, very few previous investigations were devoted to the Anthropocene geoheritage. The conceptual treatment of the geoheritage classification demonstrates that the majority of geoheritage types and forms are relevant to the Anthropocene. From types, the most relevant are the stratigraphical, economical and geomorphological types, which include, for instance, such unique objects as the Anthropocene global stratotype candidate sections, exploited ore deposits and man-made landforms, respectively. Ex-situ forms (such as museum collections) and many in-situ forms (such as quarries and roadcuts) result from the geological-scale activity of humans. The practical importance of the strong Anthropocene–geoheritage relationship is linked to communication of Anthropocene-related knowledge and better research coordination. Importantly, geosites and geopaks themselves manifest human influence on the global geological environment, that is, their establishment among the Anthropocene-related forces.
The Occurrence of Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli in Aquaponic and Hydroponic Systems
Authors: Wang Yi-Ju , Deering Amanda J. , Kim Hye-Ji
Published: January 2020

Food safety concerns have been raised over vegetables and herbs grown in aquaponics and hydroponics due to the reuse of wastewater and spent nutrient solutions. This study was conducted to determine the occurrence of foodborne pathogens in greenhouse-based aquaponic and hydroponic systems. Fish feces, recirculating water, roots, and the edible portions of lettuce, basil, and tomato were collected at harvest, and microbiological analyses were conducted for the bacterial pathogens Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella spp. Enrichments and selective media were used for the isolation, and presumptive positive colonies were confirmed by PCR. STEC was found in fish feces, in the water of both systems, and on the surface of the roots of lettuce, basil, and tomato regardless of the system. However, contaminated water did not lead to the internalization of STEC into the roots, leaves, and/or fruit of the plants. Meanwhile, L. monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. were not present in any samples examined. Our results demonstrated that there are potential food safety hazards for fresh produce grown in aquaponic and hydroponic production systems.
Mortality in Different Mountain Sports Activities Primarily Practiced in the Winter Season—A Narrative Review
Authors: Niedermeier Martin , Gatterer Hannes , Pocecco Elena , Frühauf Anika , Faulhaber Martin , Menz Verena , Burtscher Johannes , Posch Markus , Ruedl Gerhard , Burtscher Martin
Published: January 2020

Annually, millions of people engage in mountain sports activities all over the world. These activities are associated with health benefits, but concurrently with a risk for injury and death. Knowledge on death rates is considered important for the categorization of high-risk sports in literature and for the development of effective preventive measures. The death risk has been reported to vary across different mountain sports primarily practiced in the summer season. To complete the spectrum, the aim of the present review is to compare mortality rates across different mountain sports activities primarily practiced in winter. A comprehensive literature search was performed on the death risk (mortality) during such activities, i.e., alpine (downhill) skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, ski touring, and sledging. With the exception of ski touring (4.4 deaths per 1 million exposure days), the mortality risk was low across different winter sports, with small activity-specific variation (0.3–0.8 deaths per 1 million exposure days). Traumatic (e.g., falls) and non-traumatic (e.g., cardiac death) incidents and avalanche burial in ski tourers were the predominant causes of death. Preventive measures include the improvement of sport-specific skills and fitness, the use of protective gear, well-targeted and intensive training programs concerning avalanche hazards, and sports-medical counseling for elderly and those with pre-existing diseases.
Research on the Industrial Energy Eco-Efficiency Evolution Characteristics of the Yangtze River Economic Belt in the Temporal and Spatial Dimension, China
Authors: Tang Zhonglin , Sun Geng , Fu Min , Wen Chuanhao , Plenković-Moraj Anđelka
Published: January 2020

Based on the panel data of the 11 provinces along the Yangtze River Economic Belt from 1997 to 2015, the super slack-based model (Super-SBM) model is adopted to calculate the provincial-level eco-efficiency of industrial energy. While bringing in time series analysis and spatial differentiation feature analysis, the traditional and spatial Markov probability transition matrix is established. This study delves into the spatial-temporal dynamic evolution traits of the eco-efficiency of industrial energy along the Yangtze River Economic Belt. According to the results: the eco-efficiency of industrial energy of the Yangtze River Economic Belt manifests “single crest” evolution and distribution traits from left to right and top to bottom, indicating that the eco-efficiency of industrial energy of the Yangtze River Economic Belt is steadily improving gradually. However, the overall level is still low and there is still ample room for the improvement of the eco-efficiency of industrial energy. Furthermore, the eco-efficiency of industrial energy along the Yangtze River Economic Belt is elevating. The geographical spatial pattern plays a pivotal role in the spatial and temporal evolution of eco-efficiency of industrial energy, and the spatial agglomeration traits are noticeable.
Associations between Handgrip Strength with Adverse Cardiometabolic Health among Representative Korean Adults
Authors: An Keun-Ok , Kim Junghoon
Published: January 2020

Reduced muscle mass and strength are notable features of aging. Loss of muscle mass contributes to cardiometabolic health. Although many studies have focused on skeletal muscle mass, it remains unclear whether muscle strength is beneficial for cardiometabolic health. We aimed to investigate the association between handgrip strength and the risk of adverse cardiometabolic health in middle-aged and older adults in the Korean general population. The study participants included 7602 adults from the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (KNHANES). The odds ratio for adverse cardiometabolic health significantly and linearly decreased according to the category of handgrip strength adjusted for potential confounding factors (p-Value < 0.05). In the stratified models by sex we also observed significant associations between handgrip strength and cardiometabolic health in men (p-Value < 0.001), but not in women. Our findings suggest that maintaining higher handgrip strength may contribute to improved cardiometabolic health.
Evaluation of Bioaerosol Bacterial Components of a Wastewater Treatment Plant Through an Integrate Approach and In Vivo Assessment
Authors: Bruni Erika , Simonetti Giulia , Bovone Beatrice , Casagrande Chiara , Castellani Federica , Riccardi Carmela , Pomata Donatella , Di Filippo Patrizia , Federici Ermanno , Buiarelli Francesca , Uccelletti Daniela
Published: January 2020

Wastewater carries different pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms that can be dispersed in the surrounding environment. Workers who frequent sewage treatment plants can therefore be exposed to aerosols that contain a high concentration of potentially dangerous biological agents, or they can come into direct contact with contaminated material. This can lead to allergies, infections and occupational health-associated diseases. A characterization of biological risk assessment of bioaerosol exposure is necessary. The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of an interdisciplinary method that combines chemical and biological approaches for the analysis of a bioaerosol derived from a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) situated in Italy. Sampled filters were analyzed by HPLC-MS/MS spectroscopy that searched for different chemical biomarkers of airborne microorganisms. The analytical quantification was compared to the biological cultural method that revealed an underrated microbial concentration. Furthermore, next generation sequencing analysis was used also to identify the uncultivable species that were not detected by the culture dependent-method. Moreover, the simple animal model Caenorhabditis elegans was used to evaluate the pathogenicity of two isolates—Acinetobacter iwoffii and Micrococcus luteus—that showed multidrug-resistance. This work represents a starting point for the development of a multidisciplinary approach for the validation of bioaerosol exposure on WWTP workplaces.
LiveWell RERC State of the Science Conference Report on ICT Access to Support Community Living, Health and Function for People with Disabilities
Authors: Morris John , Jones Mike , DeRuyter Frank , Putrino David , Lang Catherine E. , Jake-Schoffman Danielle
Published: January 2020

This article summarizes the proceedings of the three session State of the Science (SOS) Conference that was conducted by the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center for Community Living, Health and Function (LiveWell RERC) in June 2019 in Toronto, Canada. RERCs customarily convene an SOS conference toward the end of their five-year funding cycle in order to assess the current state and identify potential future research, development, and knowledge translation efforts needed to advance their field. The first two sessions focused on the current and future state of information and communication technology (ICT) for mobile health (mHealth) and mobile rehabilitation (mRehab). The third session was a wide-ranging discussion of pressing needs for future research and development in the field. Several “big ideas” resulted from the discussion among participants in the SOS Conference that should inform the structure and operation of future efforts, including: (1) identifying active ingredients of interventions, (2) incorporating effective behavior-change techniques into all interventions, (3) including measures of social determinants of health in evaluation studies, (4) incorporating user-customizable features into technology solutions, and (5) ensuring “discoverability” of research and development outputs by stakeholders via structured and continuous outreach, education and training. Substantive areas of work include gaming and esports, the gamification of interventions for health and fitness, the cultivation of community supports, and continuous outreach and education wherever a person with a disability may live.
Academic Effects of the Use of Flipped Learning in Physical Education
Authors: Hinojo Lucena Francisco Javier , López Belmonte Jesús , Fuentes Cabrera Arturo , Trujillo Torres Juan Manuel , Pozo Sánchez Santiago
Published: January 2020

The technological characteristics of today’s society have favored the inclusion of information and communication technology (ICT) and the emergence of new training methodologies in educational spaces. This study addresses flipped learning as an innovative approach in the teaching and learning processes of physical education at two educational stages, primary and secondary education. The objective of this study is to analyze the effectiveness of flipped learning with respect to traditional methodology. A descriptive and correlational experimental research design was used through a quantitative perspective. Two study groups were established, one control (traditional methodology) and one experimental (flipped learning) in each educational stage. A total of 119 students from an educational center in Ceuta (Spain) participated. These participants were chosen intentionally. The data were collected through a questionnaire. The results show that the experimental group obtained better evaluations in the academic indicators, highlighting the motivation, autonomy, and interactions between the different agents. Regarding the effectiveness of flipped learning according to the educational stage, its potential was demonstrated in both stages, highlighting a significant improvement in autonomy in secondary education.
The Improved Effects of a Multidisciplinary Team on the Survival of Breast Cancer Patients: Experiences from China
Authors: Lu Jianlong , Jiang Yan , Qian Mengcen , Lv Lilang , Ying Xiaohua
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to explore whether different multidisciplinary team (MDT) organizations have different effects on the survival of breast cancer patients. A total of 16354 patients undergoing breast cancer surgery during the period 2006–2016 at the Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center were retrospectively extracted. Patients treated by MDT were divided into a well-organized group and a disorganized group based on their organized MDT, professional attendance, style of data and information delivery, and the length of discussion time for each patient. Other patients, who were not treated by MDT, were placed in a non-MDT group as a comparator group. Each MDT patient was matched with a non-MDT patient, using propensity score matching to reduce selection bias. The Cox regression model was used to examine the difference in effects between groups. We found that the five-year survival rate of the well-organized MDT group was 15.6% higher than the non-MDT group. However, five-year survival rate of the disorganized MDT group was 19.9% lower than that of the non-MDT group. Patients in the well-organized MDT group had a longer survival time than patients in the non-MDT group (HR = 0.4), while the disorganized MDT group had a worse survival rate than the non-MDT group (HR = 2.8) based on the Cox model result. However, our findings indicate that a well-organized MDT may improve the survival rate of patients with breast cancer in China.
Overview of Stigma against Psychiatric Illnesses and Advancements of Anti-Stigma Activities in Six Asian Societies
Authors: Zhang Zhisong , Sun Kaising , Jatchavala Chonnakarn , Koh John , Chia Yimian , Bose Jessica , Li Zhimeng , Tan Wanqiu , Wang Sizhe , Chu Wenjing , Wang Jiayun , Tran Bach , Ho Roger
Published: January 2020

Background: In psychiatry, stigma is an attitude of disapproval towards people with mental illnesses. Psychiatric disorders are common in Asia but some Asians receive inadequate treatment. Previous review found that Asians with mental illness were perceived to be dangerous and aggressive. There is a need for renewed efforts to understand stigma and strategies which can effectively reduce stigma in specific Asian societies. The objective of this systematic review was to provide an up-to-date overview of existing research and status on stigma experienced by psychiatric patients and anti-stigma campaigns in China, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Korea, and Thailand. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in the following databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science, and local databases. Studies published in English and the official language of included countries/territories were considered for inclusion in the systematic review. Any article on stigma related to any form of psychiatric illness in the six Asian societies was included. Results: One hundred and twenty-three articles were included for this systematic review. This review has six major findings. Firstly, Asians with mental illnesses were considered as dangerous and aggressive, especially patients suffering from schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; second, psychiatric illnesses in Asian societies were less socially-acceptable and were viewed as being personal weaknesses; third, stigma experienced by family members was pervasive and this is known as family stigma; fourth, this systemic review reported more initiatives to handle stigma in Asian societies than a decade ago; fifth, there have been initiatives to treat psychiatric patients in the community; and sixth, the role of supernatural and religious approaches to psychiatric illness was not prevailing. Conclusion: This systematic review provides an overview of the available scientific evidence that points to areas of needed intervention to reduce and ultimately eliminate inequities in mental health in Asia.
Relationship between Leadership and Emotional Intelligence in Teachers in Universities and Other Educational Centres: A Structural Equation Model
Authors: Zurita-Ortega Félix , Olmedo-Moreno Eva María , Chacón-Cuberos Ramón , Expósito López Jorge , Martínez-Martínez Asunción
Published: January 2020

This study uses an explanatory model of the dimensions of leadership and emotional intelligence according to the methods used in particular teaching environments (universities and other educational institutions). The effect of different kinds of leadership on emotional intelligence dimensions is also established using an explanatory model. A total of 954 teachers participated in this cross-sectional study, teaching in 137 different schools/universities. The instruments used for the data collection were the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ-5) and the Trait Meta Mood Scale (TMMS-24). Data analysis was performed with the software IBM AMOS 23.0. (International Business Machines Corporation, Armonk, NY, USA) using multi-group analysis and structural equations. Results showed that the structural equation model had a good fit. Transformational leadership depends mainly on intellectual stimulation in university teachers, whereas intrinsic motivation is more relevant at the lower educational levels. In relation to transactional leadership, contingency reward has a greater regression weight in non-university education, whereas passive leadership is governed more by passive exception in university teachers. There was a positive and direct relationship between levels of emotional intelligence and transformational leadership in non-university teachers, which reveals the need for effective understanding and management of both one’s own and students’ emotions in order to act effectively as a leader. Transactional leadership was negatively related to some emotional intelligence dimensions, given the relevance of obtaining power in this dimension.
Financial Catastrophism Inherent with Out-of-Pocket Payments in Long Term Care for Households: A Latent Impoverishment
Authors: Del Pozo-Rubio Raúl , Pardo-García Isabel , Escribano-Sotos Francisco
Published: January 2020

Background: Out-of-pocket (OOP) payments are configured as an important source of financing long-term care (LTC). However, very few studies have analyzed the risk of impoverishment and catastrophic effects of OOP in LTC. To estimate the contribution of users to the financing of LTC and to analyze the economic consequences for households in terms of impoverishment and catastrophism after financial crisis in Spain. Methods: The database that was used is the 2008 Spanish Disability and Dependency Survey, projected to 2012. We analyze the OOP payments effect associated to the impoverishment of households comparing volume and financial situation before and after OOP payment. At the same time, the extent to which OOP payment had led to catastrophism was analyzed using different thresholds. Results: The results show that contribution of dependent people to the financing of the services they receive exceeds by 50% the costs of these services. This expenditure entails an increase in the number of households that live below the poverty. In terms of catastrophism, more than 80% of households dedicate more than 10% of their income to dependency OOP payments. In annual terms, the catastrophe gap generated by devoting more than 10% of the household income to dependent care OOP payment reached €3955, 1 million (0.38% of GDP). Conclusion: This article informs about consequences of OOP in LCT and supplements previous research that focus on health. Our results should serve to develop strategic for protection against the financial risk resulting from facing the costs of a situation of dependence.
Bisphenol a Exposure, DNA Methylation, and Asthma in Children
Authors: Yang Chia-Feng , Karmaus Wilfried J. J. , Yang Chen-Chang , Chen Mei-Lien , Wang I-Jen
Published: January 2020

Epidemiological studies have reported the relationship between bisphenol A (BPA) exposure and increased prevalence of asthma, but the mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated whether BPA exposure and DNA methylation related to asthma in children. We collected urinary and blood samples from 228 children (Childhood Environment and Allergic Diseases Study cohort) aged 3 years. Thirty-three candidate genes potentially interacting with BPA exposure were selected from a toxicogenomics database. DNA methylation was measured in 22 blood samples with top-high and bottom-low exposures of BPA. Candidate genes with differential methylation levels were validated by qPCR and promoter associated CpG islands have been investigated. Correlations between the methylation percentage and BPA exposure and asthma were analyzed. According to our findings, MAPK1 showed differential methylation and was further investigated in 228 children. Adjusting for confounders, urinary BPA glucuronide (BPAG) level inversely correlated with MAPK1 promoter methylation (β = −0.539, p = 0.010). For the logistic regression analysis, MAPK1 methylation status was dichotomized into higher methylated and lower methylated groups with cut off continuous variable of median of promoter methylation percentage (50%) while performing the analysis. MAPK1 methylation was lower in children with asthma than in children without asthma (mean ± SD; 69.82 ± 5.88% vs. 79.82 ± 5.56%) (p = 0.001). Mediation analysis suggested that MAPK1 methylation acts as a mediation variable between BPA exposure and asthma. The mechanism of BPA exposure on childhood asthma might, therefore, be through the alteration of MAPK1 methylation. The mechanism of BPA exposure on childhood asthma might, therefore, be through the alteration of MAPK1 methylation.
Multi-Agents-Based Modeling and Simulation for Carbon Permits Trading in China: A Regional Development Perspective
Authors: Zheng Junjun , Yang Mingmiao , Ma Gang , Xu Qian , He Yujie
Published: January 2020

China has been actively taking actions to control carbon emissions and promoting development of a carbon market. However, there are many disadvantages in a carbon market, owing to various designs and policies still under trial and implementation. Adopting the multi-agents technique, we constructed a framework about national carbon market to estimate the effect of a different design of policy made on the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) and environment. In particular, national and regional abatement policies were analyzed in our study. The results showed the carbon-trading mechanism can effectively reduce carbon emissions and make a negative impact on GDP. National abatement can neither be too high nor too low for reducing carbon emissions and maintaining economic stability. For different regions, the central region was impacted the most by a carbon trading mechanism, and the east region was the opposite. Moreover, the “sweeping approach” policy should be replaced by a regional “discriminating policy” because the abatement requirement to the western region was low and to the eastern region was relatively high, which is more beneficial to China’s regional development.
Occupational Class and Cancer Survival in Korean Men: Follow-Up Study of Nation-Wide Working Population
Authors: Lee Hye-Eun , Zaitsu Masayoshi , Kim Eun-A , Kawachi Ichiro
Published: January 2020

Background: We aimed to describe inequalities in site-specific cancer survival across different occupational classes in Korean men. Methods: Subjects included cancer diagnosed members of the national employment insurance program during 1995–2008. A total of 134,384 male cases were followed by linking their data to the Death registry until 2009. Occupational classes were categorized according to the Korean Standard Occupational Classification (KSOC). Hazard ratio adjusting age and diagnosed year were calculated for each occupation by cancer sites. Results: Men in service/sales and blue-collar occupations had lower survival of all cancer sites combined and esophagus, stomach, colorectal, liver, larynx, lung, prostate, thyroid cancer and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma than men in professional and managerial positions. Cancer sites with good prognosis like prostate cancer showed wider gap across occupational class. Conclusions: Considerable inequalities in cancer survival were found by occupation among Korean men. Cancer control policy should more focus on lower socioeconomic occupational class.
Spatiotemporal Variation of the Association between Urbanicity and Incident Hypertension among Chinese Adults
Authors: Wu Jinjing , Chen Jia , Li Zhen , Jiao Boshen , Muennig Peter
Published: January 2020

Urbanization is believed to result in a transition towards energy-dense diets, sedentary lifestyles, and a subsequent increase in the burden of hypertension (HTN) and other cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in developing countries. However, the extent to which this occurs is likely dependent on social contexts. We performed multilevel logistic regression models to examine whether the association between incident HTN and the degree to which a community exhibits urban features varied by region (the Northeast, East Coast, Central, and West) within China and period. We used longitudinal data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (1991–2015) and stratified analyses by sex. Among women, the positive association between medium-to-high urbanicity and HTN onset generally shifted to negative between 1991 and 2015. The high urbanicity was associated with lower odds of developing HTN in the East Coast from the early 1990s. The negative association between high urbanicity and HTN occurrence became statistically significant during 1991–2015 in the Northeastern and Central Regions, while the association remained positive and non-significant in the West. Among men, the relationship between urbanicity and incident HTN was generally non-significant, except for the East Coast in which the negative association between high urbanicity and HTN occurrence became statistically-significant in more recent years. Our findings suggest that, when a subnational region or the society as a whole has become more economically developed, higher urbanicity might turn out to be a protective factor of cardiovascular health. Moreover, improvements made to communities’ urban features might be more effective in preventing HTN for women than for men.
Community Health Survey of Residents Living Near a Solid Waste Open Dumpsite in Sabak, Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Norsa’adah Bachok , Salinah Omar , Naing Nyi Nyi , Sarimah Abdullah
Published: January 2020

The management of waste materials is a serious problem worldwide, especially in urbanizing countries like Malaysia. This study was conducted to compare the prevalence of health symptoms and diseases diagnosed among residents exposed to the solid waste open dumpsite in the suburb of Sabak with the non-exposed community. Research related to exposure to solid waste dumping with complete health problems has never been combined in one study. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted. The exposed group included residents within a 1 km radius and the non-exposed group included residents between a 2.5 and 4.0 km radius from the dumpsite. The selected residents were interviewed using validated, structured questionnaires. A total of 170 residents from the exposed group and 119 residents from the non-exposed group were selected. The mean (SD) duration time of residence was 22.6 (18.9) years for the exposed group and 15.0 (12.0) years for the non-exposed group. Dumpsite exposure was significantly associated with sore throat (adjusted odd ratio (AOR) 1.88; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05, 3.38; p = 0.031), diabetes mellitus (AOR 2.84; 95% CI: 1.10, 7.30; p = 0.021) and hypertension (AOR 2.56; 95% CI: 1.27, 5.13; p = 0.006). This study provides evidence that the unsanitary solid waste disposal in Malaysia is hazardous to the health of residents in the surrounding 1 km, and efforts are needed to minimize the hazards.
Effects of the Affordable Care Act on the Receipt of Colonoscopies among the Insured Elderly
Authors: Lee Minjee , Khan M. Mahmud , Brandt Heather M. , Salloum Ramzi G. , Chen Brian
Published: January 2020

Background: The Affordable Care Act (ACA) waived deductibles and eliminated coinsurance for colonoscopies for Medicare beneficiaries beginning in January 1, 2011. This study investigated the effect of the ACA’s directive to remove the financial barriers on the receipt of colonoscopies among the elderly insured, who are predominantly covered by Medicare. Methods: Data from the 2008–2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) were used to examine the receipt of colonoscopies in two years prior to the implementation of the ACA (2008 and 2010) and three years after the change (2012, 2014, and 2016). Multivariate logistic regressions were estimated to examine the change in colonoscopy use before and after the introduction of the ACA, adjusting for patient characteristics and availability of health care providers in the geographic region. Results: Of 349,899 eligible elderly insured in the age group 65 to 75 years, 236,275 (67.2%) had received a colonoscopy in the previous ten years. The receipt of colonoscopies increased from 63.5% in pre-ACA years to 69.2% in the post-ACA years (p < 0.001). Compared with the pre-ACA period, the odds ratio of colonoscopy uptake in post-ACA years was 1.15 (95% CI = 1.08–1.22). Conclusions: A statistically significant increase in colonoscopy use was observed in the post-ACA years. However, achieving the target coverage rate of 80% will require additional interventions to encourage higher levels of screenings.
Snowboarders’ Knowledge of the FIS Rules for Conduct on Ski Slopes
Authors: Carus Luis , Castillo Isabel
Published: January 2020

The objective of the present study is to assess snowboarders’ general perceptions of safety and knowledge of existing rules and both active and passive knowledge of the International Ski Federation (FIS) regulations in order to contribute to defining target groups for specific educational interventions in the field of injury prevention. Data were drawn from random interviews conducted with 918 snowboarders during the 2017–2018 winter season at five ski resorts located in the Spanish Pyrenees. To collect the data, a questionnaire assessing personal characteristics (gender, age, origin, and self-reported skill), general perception of safety, general request for rules, and knowledge of existing rules was used. Pearson’s Chi-squared tests were performed to compare characteristics between groups. The study revealed, for accident prevention purposes, a concerning lack of general knowledge of existing rules. Risk-inducing situations that could result in severe injuries were largely assessed incorrectly. The appropriate intuitive behavior increases with age and experience: youths and beginners are less able to implement the FIS rules than older and more experienced snowboarders. Stakeholders, such as parents, ski resorts, clubs or schools, should direct educational efforts at high-risk groups. Further research is needed to determine the causal relation between snowboard-related injuries and disregard of FIS rules.
Relation Modeling of Factors Influencing Life Satisfaction and Adaptation of Korean Older Adults in Long-Term Care Facilities
Authors: Park Soonyoung , Sok Sohyune R.
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to model and examine the relationship between the factors influencing the adaptation ability and life satisfaction of the elderly people living in long-term care facilities. This study used a cross-sectional descriptive design and relation prediction modeling. Participants were 229 older adults over 65 years old, who had lived for more than six months in the long-term care facilities of the Gyeonggi and Gyeongsang provinces, South Korea. The model construction was based on the Ecological model developed by Lawton (1982). The data were included demographics, physical health status, emotional health status, self-efficacy, and social support. The analysis of collected data was done by using the SPSS 22.0 and AMOS 22.0 programs. The model fit index for the modified model was χ2 = 15.561, χ2/df = 2.223, GFI = 0.980, AGFI = 0.920, NFI = 0.967, CFI = 0.970, and RMRS = 0.018, RMSEA = 0.021. Life satisfaction was influenced by the factors of adaptation, depression, anxiety, friend support, self-efficacy, and staff support. In addition, adaptation was affected by the factors of staff support, depression, anxiety, and friend support. This study suggests that life satisfaction and adaptation for Korean elderly in long-term facilities were primarily influenced by of the factors of anxiety, depression, friend support, and staff support. In the nursing practice, nurses need to pay attention to these factors to improve the life satisfaction and adaptation ability of Korean elderly in long-term facilities.
Development and Validation of a Homemade, Low-Cost Laparoscopic Simulator for Resident Surgeons (LABOT)
Authors: Soriero Domenico , Atzori Giulia , Barra Fabio , Pertile Davide , Massobrio Andrea , Conti Luigi , Gusmini Dario , Epis Lorenzo , Gallo Maurizio , Banchini Filippo , Capelli Patrizio , Penza Veronica , Scabini Stefano
Published: January 2020

Several studies have demonstrated that training with a laparoscopic simulator improves laparoscopic technical skills. We describe how to build a homemade, low-cost laparoscopic training simulator (LABOT) and its validation as a training instrument. First, sixty surgeons filled out a survey characterized by 12 closed-answer questions about realism, ergonomics, and usefulness for surgical training (global scores ranged from 1—very insufficient to 5—very good). The results of the questionnaires showed a mean (±SD) rating score of 4.18 ± 0.65 for all users. Then, 15 students (group S) and 15 residents (group R) completed 3 different tasks (T1, T2, T3), which were repeated twice to evaluate the execution time and the number of users’ procedural errors. For T1, the R group had a lower mean execution time and a lower rate of procedural errors than the S group; for T2, the R and S groups had a similar mean execution time, but the R group had a lower rate of errors; and for T3, the R and S groups had a similar mean execution time and rate of errors. On a second attempt, all the participants tended to improve their results in doing these surgical tasks; nevertheless, after subgroup analysis of the T1 results, the S group had a better improvement of both parameters. Our laparoscopic simulator is simple to build, low-cost, easy to use, and seems to be a suitable resource for improving laparoscopic skills. In the future, further studies should evaluate the potential of this laparoscopic box on long-term surgical training with more complex tasks and simulation attempts.
Effects of Biochar Application on Soil Organic Carbon Composition and Enzyme Activity in Paddy Soil under Water-Saving Irrigation
Authors: Yang Shihong , Chen Xi , Jiang Zewei , Ding Jie , Sun Xiao , Xu Junzeng
Published: January 2020

Rice water-saving irrigation technology can remarkably reduce irrigation water input and maintain high yield; however, this technology can also accelerate the decomposition of soil organic matter in paddy fields. The spatial and temporal distributions of soil organic carbon (SOC), water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC), and soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) under different water-carbon regulation scenarios were analyzed on the basis of field experiments in the Taihu Lake region in China to explore the effects of biochar application on SOC and its components in water-saving irrigation paddy fields. The response of soil catalase (CAT) and invertase (INV) to biochar application in water-saving irrigated rice fields was clarified. The results showed that water-saving irrigation reduced the SOC content by 5.7% to 13.3% but increased WSOC and SMBC contents by 13.8% to 26.1% and 0.9% to 11.1%, respectively, as compared with flooding irrigation. Nonflooding management promoted the oxidative decomposition of soil organic matter. Two years after straw biochar was added, paddy soil SOC content under water-saving irrigation was increased by 4.0% to 26.7%. The WSOC and SMBC contents were also increased by 4.0% to 52.4% and 7.0% to 40.8%, respectively. The high straw biochar addition rate exhibited great impact on SOC. Remarkable correlations among SOC, WSOC, and SMBC were observed, indicating that the addition of straw biochar improved soil labile C, such as WSOC and SMBC, which promoted SOC transformation and stability in paddy soil under water-saving irrigation. Soil CAT and INV were related to SOC conversion. In conclusion, the combination of water-saving irrigation and straw biochar addition was beneficial to the improvement of soil properties and fertility of paddy fields.
Type 2 Diabetes Alters Intracellular Ca2+ Handling in Native Endothelium of Excised Rat Aorta
Authors: Berra-Romani Roberto , Guzmán-Silva Alejandro , Vargaz-Guadarrama Ajelet , Flores-Alonso Juan Carlos , Alonso-Romero José , Treviño Samuel , Sánchez-Gómez Josué , Coyotl-Santiago Nayeli , García-Carrasco Mario , Moccia Francesco
Published: January 2020

An increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) plays a key role in controlling endothelial functions; however, it is still unclear whether endothelial Ca2+ handling is altered by type 2 diabetes mellitus, which results in severe endothelial dysfunction. Herein, we analyzed for the first time the Ca2+ response to the physiological autacoid ATP in native aortic endothelium of obese Zucker diabetic fatty (OZDF) rats and their lean controls, which are termed LZDF rats. By loading the endothelial monolayer with the Ca2+-sensitive fluorophore, Fura-2/AM, we found that the endothelial Ca2+ response to 20 µM and 300 µM ATP exhibited a higher plateau, a larger area under the curve and prolonged duration in OZDF rats. The “Ca2+ add-back” protocol revealed no difference in the inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate-releasable endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ pool, while store-operated Ca2+ entry was surprisingly down-regulated in OZDF aortae. Pharmacological manipulation disclosed that sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) activity was down-regulated by reactive oxygen species in native aortic endothelium of OZDF rats, thereby exaggerating the Ca2+ response to high agonist concentrations. These findings shed new light on the mechanisms by which type 2 diabetes mellitus may cause endothelial dysfunction by remodeling the intracellular Ca2+ toolkit.
β-Galactosylceramidase Deficiency Causes Bone Marrow Vascular Defects in an Animal Model of Krabbe Disease
Authors: Belleri Mirella , Coltrini Daniela , Righi Marco , Ravelli Cosetta , Taranto Sara , Chiodelli Paola , Mitola Stefania , Presta Marco , Giacomini Arianna
Published: January 2020

Krabbe disease (KD) is an autosomal recessive sphingolipidosis caused by the deficiency of the lysosomal hydrolase β-galactosylceramidase (GALC). Oligodendroglia degeneration and demyelination of the nervous system lead to neurological dysfunctions which are usually lethal by two years of age. At present, the only clinical treatment with any proven efficacy is hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation, which is more effective when administered in the neonatal period to presymptomatic recipients. Bone marrow (BM) sinusoidal endothelial cells (SECs) play a pivotal role in stem cell engraftment and reconstitution of hematopoiesis. Previous observations had shown significant alterations of microvascular endothelial cells in the brain of KD patients and in Galc mutant twitcher mice, an authentic model of the disease. In the present study, we investigated the vascular component of the BM in the femurs of symptomatic homozygous twitcher mice at postnatal day P36. Histological, immunohistochemical, and two-photon microscopy imaging analyses revealed the presence of significant alterations of the diaphyseal BM vasculature, characterized by enlarged, discontinuous, and hemorrhagic SECs that express the endothelial marker vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) but lack platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD31) expression. In addition, computer-aided image analysis indicates that twitcher CD31−/VEGFR2+ SECs show a significant increase in lumen size and in the number and size of endothelial gaps compared to BM SECs of wild type littermates. These results suggest that morphofunctional defects in the BM vascular niche may contribute to the limited therapeutic efficacy of hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation in KD patients at symptomatic stages of the disease.
Role of c-Jun N-Terminal Kinases (JNKs) in Epilepsy and Metabolic Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Busquets Oriol , Ettcheto Miren , Cano Amanda , R. Manzine Patricia , Sánchez-Lopez Elena , Espinosa-Jiménez Triana , Verdaguer Ester , Dario Castro-Torres Rubén , Beas-Zarate Carlos , X. Sureda Francesc , Olloquequi Jordi , Auladell Carme , Folch Jaume , Camins Antoni
Published: January 2020

Previous studies have reported that the regulatory function of the different c-Jun N-terminal kinases isoforms (JNK1, JNK2, and JNK3) play an essential role in neurological disorders, such as epilepsy and metabolic-cognitive alterations. Accordingly, JNKs have emerged as suitable therapeutic strategies. In fact, it has been demonstrated that some unspecific JNK inhibitors exert antidiabetic and neuroprotective effects, albeit they usually show high toxicity or lack therapeutic value. In this sense, natural specific JNK inhibitors, such as Licochalcone A, are promising candidates. Nonetheless, research on the understanding of the role of each of the JNKs remains mandatory in order to progress on the identification of new selective JNK isoform inhibitors. In the present review, a summary on the current gathered data on the role of JNKs in pathology is presented, as well as a discussion on their potential role in pathologies like epilepsy and metabolic-cognitive injury. Moreover, data on the effects of synthetic small molecule inhibitors that modulate JNK-dependent pathways in the brain and peripheral tissues is reviewed.
Dihydrochalcone Derivatives from Populus balsamifera L. Buds for the Treatment of Psoriasis
Authors: Bélanger Audrey , Grenier Alexe , Simard François , Gendreau Isabelle , Pichette André , Legault Jean , Pouliot Roxane
Published: January 2020

Psoriasis is a skin disorder characterized by epidermal hyperplasia, hyperkeratosis, and inflammation. The treatments currently available on the market only improve patients’ quality of life and are associated with undesirable side effects. Thus, research leading to the development of new, effective, and safer therapeutic agents is still relevant. Populus balsamifera L. buds were used traditionally by Native Americans to treat various skin pathologies such as eczema and psoriasis. In this study, the antipsoriatic activities of dihydrochalcone derivatives from Populus balsamifera L. buds, known as balsacones, were investigated. The experiments were performed in vitro using a psoriatic skin substitute model. Also, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities were investigated. The tested balsacones showed promising antipsoriatic properties by slowing down cell growth and by regulating the expression of involucrin, loricrin, and Ki67 better than methotrexate in psoriatic substitutes. All five tested compounds could be an effective topical treatment for psoriasis, with promising anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions that may contribute to clinical improvement in patients with psoriasis.