bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in Microwave Large-Signal Metrology: From Vector-Receiver Load-Pull to Vector Signal Network Analyzer and Time-Domain Load-Pull Implementations (Invited Paper)
Authors: Reynoso-Hernández J. Apolinar , Pulido-Gaytan Manuel Alejandro , Niubó-Alemán Thaimí , Molina-Ceseña Marlon
Published: April 2022

Radiofrequency (RF) power amplifiers (PAs) are important elements of modern communication systems. The most important components in PAs are the transistors, which are operated under large-signal regimes in such applications. Designing and optimizing PAs are challenging tasks that demand the highest accuracy on large-signal measurements at both device and circuit levels. Large-signal power transistor characterization demands the development and utilization of high-frequency and low-frequency load-pull systems. Furthermore, the static and dynamic characterization of two-input PAs requires the development of new measurement systems that consist of an nonlinear vector network analyzer (NVNA) and an arbitrary waveform generators (AWG). This paper reviews the research activities, achievements, and current research goals at CICESE Research Center in Mexico in the large-signal microwave metrology field.
Forest Conversion and Soil Depth Can Modify the Contributions of Organic and Inorganic Colloids to the Stability of Soil Aggregates
Authors: Li Chong , Yu Zizhou , Lin Jie , Meng Miaojing , Zhao Youpeng , Jia Zhaohui , Peng Xiaonan , Liu Xin , Zhang Jinchi
Published: April 2022

The stability of soil aggregates is critical for maintaining soil structures and is positively correlated with soil resident organic and inorganic colloids. Forest conversion and soil depth affects the formation of soil aggregates; however, the detailed mechanisms involved in their stabilization have not been well investigated. Therefore, to explore the main factors that influence the stability of soil aggregates for different forest types and soil depths, twelve soil samples were collected from four types of forests (native, mixed, Chinese fir, and bamboo forest) and three soil depths (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm) in subtropical forests. The results revealed that the distributions and mean weight diameters (MWDs) of large macroaggregates in the bamboo forest were significantly lower than those in the other forest types at all soil depths (p < 0.05). Organic and inorganic colloids (organically-complexed Fe oxide and fulvic acid) in the soil directly impacted the stability of soil aggregates, while soil properties (e.g., pH and bulk density) indirectly promoted soil aggregate stability through the modification of colloids. In both native and bamboo forests, organic colloids contributed most to the stability of soil aggregates, reaching 80.31% and 61.37%, respectively. The contributions of organic colloids were found to decrease with soil depth, which was primarily due to changes in the organic matter caused by the decomposition of litter. Elucidating and promoting the specific contributions of organic and inorganic colloids on the stability of soil aggregates will be increasingly important for the optimal management of different forest types.
Untargeted MS-Based Metabolomics Analysis of the Responses to Drought Stress in Quercus ilex L. Leaf Seedlings and the Identification of Putative Compounds Related to Tolerance
Authors: Tienda-Parrilla Marta , López-Hidalgo Cristina , Guerrero-Sanchez Victor M. , Infantes-González Álvaro , Valderrama-Fernández Rocío , Castillejo María-Ángeles , Jorrín-Novo Jesús V. , Rey María-Dolores
Published: April 2022

The effect and responses to drought stress were analyzed in Quercus ilex L. seedlings using a nontargeted metabolomic approach, implementing the approaches of previous studies in which other -omics platforms, transcriptomics, and proteomics were employed. This work aimed to characterize the Q. ilex leaf metabolome, determining possible mechanisms and molecular markers of drought tolerance and identifying putative bioactive compounds. Six-month-old seedling leaves subjected to drought stress imposed by water withholding under high-temperature and irradiance conditions were collected when leaf fluorescence decreased by 20% (day 17) and 45% (day 24) relative to irrigated seedlings. A total of 3934 compounds were resolved, with 616 being variable and 342 identified, which belonged to five chemical families. Out of the identified compounds, 33 were variable, mostly corresponding to amino acids, carboxylic acids, benzenoids, flavonoids and isoprenoids. Epigallocatechin, ellagic acid, pulegone, indole-3-acrylic acid and dihydrozeatin-O-glucoside were up-accumulated under drought conditions at both sampling times. An integrated multi-omics analysis of phenolic compounds and related enzymes was performed, revealing that some enzymes involved in the flavonoid pathways (chalcone synthase, anthocyanidin synthase and anthocyanidin reductase) were up-accumulated at day 24 in non-irrigated seedlings. Some putative markers of tolerance to drought in Q. ilex are proposed for assisting breeding programs based on the selection of elite genotypes.
The Biological Origins of Soil Organic Matter in Different Land-Uses in the Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Dessie , Mentler Axel , Sandén Hans , Rewald Boris , Godbold Douglas L.
Published: April 2022

In the Ethiopian highlands, clearance of Afromontane dry forest and conversion to crop and grazing land lead to land degradation and loss of soil organic matter (SOM). Eucalyptus is often grown on degraded soils, and this results in the partial recovery of soil carbon stocks. The aim of this work was to assess the biological sources of SOM in this land-use sequence. In top-soils (0–10 cm) of four land-use systems, namely remnant natural forest, eucalyptus plantation, cropland, and grazing land, in the Ethiopian highlands, the origin of SOM was investigated. For this, a sequential extraction method was used, involving a solvent extraction, base hydrolysis, and a subsequent CuO oxidation. In these extracts, biomarkers (molecular proxies) were identified to characterize the SOM of the soil of the four land-uses. Putative lipid monomers of leaf, root, and microbial degradation products suggest that root inputs and microbial inputs dominate in SOM of all the land-uses, except grazing land. The ratios of syringyls, vanillyls, and cinnamyls showed that non-woody angiosperm plants were the predominant source for lignin in eucalyptus, cropland, and grazing land soil. In the soils of the natural forest, lignin originates from both woody angiosperms and woody gymnosperms. Our study shows the importance of root and microbial inputs in the formation of SOM, but also that, in the natural forest, legacies of previous forest cover are present.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Green Landscape Buffers to Reduce Fire Severity and Limit Fire Spread in California: Case Study of Golf Courses
Authors: Herbert Claudia , Butsic Van
Published: April 2022

Communities looking to improve fire protection may consider incorporating landscape features that ‘buffer’ the effects of a fire between developed and undeveloped lands. While landscapes such as golf courses, vineyards, or agriculture are already being considered part of this buffer zone, few empirical studies demonstrate causally how well these different landscape features operate as a fire buffer. This research selects golf courses as an example of a possible buffer landscape and proposes methods to test if this buffer alters fire severity and limits fire spread. Using propensity score matching and multiple linear regression, we demonstrate golf courses that burned in California between 1986 and 2020 had a predicted 49% reduction in fire severity relative to otherwise similar vegetated land. This reduction in fire severity is regionally dependent, with the effect of golf course buffering landscapes most pronounced in the North Bay region. For limiting fire spread, golf courses function similarly to hardscaped land uses such as airports, suggesting that irrigation and vegetation management can be effective in creating desired buffering qualities. These methods suggest that artificially created irrigated green zones act as effective buffers, providing de facto fuel breaks around communities, and can be reproduced for other potential buffering landscape features. This study does not advocate for the use of any specific anthropogenic landscape feature, but rather highlights that community-based fire hazard reduction goals could be attained through considering landscape features beyond fuel reduction manipulations.
Comparative Metabolomics Study of Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai from Different Geographical Regions
Authors: Ma Yubo , Li Jihan , Li Jingling , Yang Li , Wu Guanle , Liu Shiyao
Published: April 2022

Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai (C. speciosa) is not only a Chinese herbal medicine but also a functional food widely planted in China. Its fruits are used to treat many diseases or can be processed into food products. This study aims to find key metabolic components, distinguish the differences between geographical regions and find more medicinal and edible values of C. speciosa fruits. We used ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) and widely targeted metabolomics analysis to reveal key and differential metabolites. We identified 974 metabolites and screened 548 differential metabolites from 8 regions. We selected significantly high-content differential metabolites to visualize a regional biomarker map. Comparative analysis showed Yunnan had the highest content of total flavonoids, the highest amounts of compounds related to disease resistance and drug targets and the most significant difference from the other regions according to the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform database, a unique platform for studying the systematic pharmacology of Chinese herbal medicine and capturing the relationship between drugs, targets and diseases. We used oral bioavailability (OB) ≥ 30% and drug likeness (DL) ≥ 0.18 as the selection criteria and found 101 key active metabolites, which suggests that C. speciosa fruits were rich in healthy metabolites. These results provide valuable information for the development of C. speciosa.
Influence of Feeding Weaned Piglets with Laminaria digitata on the Quality and Nutritional Value of Meat
Authors: Ribeiro David , Alfaia Cristina , Pestana José , Carvalho Daniela , Costa Mónica , Martins Cátia , Lemos José , Mourato Miguel , Gueifão Sandra , Delgado Inês , Carvalho Patrícia , Coelho Diogo , Coelho Inês , Freire João , Almeida André , Prates José
Published: April 2022

Laminaria digitata is a novel feedstuff that can be used in pig diets to replace conventional feedstuffs. However, its resilient cell wall can prevent the monogastric digestive system from accessing intracellular nutrients. Carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) supplementation is a putative solution for this problem, degrading the cell wall during digestion. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of 10% L. digitata feed inclusion and CAZyme supplementation on the meat quality and nutritional value of weaned piglets. Forty weaned piglets were randomly allocated to four experimental groups (n = 10): control, LA (10% L. digitata, replacing the control diet), LAR (LA + CAZyme (0.005% Rovabio® Excel AP)) and LAL (LA + CAZyme (0.01% alginate lyase)) and the trial lasted for two weeks. The diets had no effect on any zootechnical parameters measured (p > 0.05) and meat quality traits, except for the pH measured 24 h post-mortem, which was higher in LAL compared to LA (p = 0.016). Piglets fed with seaweed had a significantly lower n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio compared to control, to which the higher accumulation of C20:5n-3 (p = 0.001) and C18:4n-3 (p < 0.0001) contributed. In addition, meat of seaweed-fed piglets was enriched with bromine (Br, p < 0.001) and iodine (I, p < 0.001) and depicted a higher oxidative stability. This study demonstrates that the nutritional value of piglets’ meat could be improved by the dietary incorporation of L. digitata, regardless of CAZyme supplementation, without negatively affecting growth performance in the post-weaning stage.
Prevalence Rates and Characteristics of Malnutrition, Frailty, and Other Nutrition and Muscle Mass-Related Conditions Document Potential Quality of Care Gap for Medicare Patients in US Skilled Nursing Facilities
Authors: Arensberg Mary Beth , Brunton Cory , Drawert Susan , Richardson Brenda
Published: April 2022

Changes to the payment structure of the United States (U.S.) healthcare system are leading to an increased acuity level of patients receiving short-term skilled nursing facility care. Most skilled nursing facility patients are older, and many have medical conditions that cannot be changed. However, conditions related to nutrition/muscle mass may be impacted if there is early identification/intervention. To help determine the diagnosis and potential impact of nutrition/muscle mass-related conditions in skilled nursing facilities, this study evaluated 2016–2020 US Medicare claims data. Methods aimed to identify a set of skilled nursing facility claims with one or more specific diagnoses (COVID-19, malnutrition, sarcopenia, frailty, obesity, diabetes, and/or pressure injury) and then to determine length of stay, discharge status, total charges, and total payments for each claim. Mean values per beneficiary were computed and between–group comparisons were performed. Results documented that each year, the total number of Medicare skilled nursing facility claims declined, whereas the percentage of claims for each study diagnosis increased significantly. For most conditions, potentially related to nutrition/muscle mass, Medicare beneficiaries had a shorter length of skilled nursing facility stays compared to those without the condition(s). Furthermore, a lower percentage of these Medicare beneficiaries were discharged home (except for those with claims for sarcopenia and obesity). Total claim charges for those with nutrition/muscle mass-related conditions exceeded those without (except for those with sarcopenia). We conclude that although the acuity level of patients in skilled nursing facilities continues to increase, skilled nursing facility Medicare claims for nutrition/muscle mass-related conditions are reported at lower levels than their likely prevalence. This represents a potential care gap and requires action to help improve patient health outcomes and skilled nursing facility quality metrics.
Factors Influencing Length of Stay and Discharge Destination of Patients with Hip Fracture Rehabilitating in a Private Care Setting
Authors: Thornburgh Zoe , Samuel Dinesh
Published: April 2022

Background: Rehabilitation after a hip fracture has long-term importance, prompting some patients to utilise private services. Insufficient data regarding private rehabilitation in the UK can cause ambiguity and potential problems for all involved. Aim: The present study, involving patients with hip fractures rehabilitating in a private UK care setting, examined relationships between length of stay (LoS), discharge destination (DD) and 12 predictor variables. Methods: The variables included the retrospective measurement of the Functional Independence Measure. The variables were informed by a literature review and patient and public involvement. Retrospective data from the records of patients with hip fractures were utilised. Data were analysed using Spearman’s rho, Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis H and chi-squared tests as appropriate. Odds ratios, distribution quartiles and survivor analysis were also utilised. Results: The median length of stay (LoS) was 20.5 days: 82% returned home, 6.5% died and 11.5% remained as long-term residents. Significant relationships existed between LoS and age (p = 0.004), comorbidities (p = 0.001) and FIMadmission (p = 0.001). DD was associated with age (p = 0.007), delirium (p = 0.018), comorbidities (p = 0.001) and both FIMpre-fracture and FIMadmission (p = 0.000). Conclusions: Factors associated with length of stay were identified, but further research incorporating multiple sites is required for greater predictor precision. Discharge destination was evident by 90 days, facilitating long-term planning.
Barriers to Medication Review Process Implementation—Cross-Sectional Study among Community Pharmacists in Jordan
Authors: Abu Assab Mohammad , Alhamad Hamza , Almazari Inas , Azzam Bilyana , Abu Assab Hanadi
Published: April 2022

The medication review process (MRP) is an extended, vital role of community pharmacists in improving health outcomes of medication use, yet it is neither systematically nor comprehensively provided bycommunity pharmacies in Jordan. This study aimed to identify the potential barriers hinderingMRP implementation bycommunity pharmacists in Jordan. A total of 550 community pharmacists electronically received a previously constructed and validated Arabic questionnaire explicitly developed to assess the current medication review practices and factors hindering the MRP, of whom 417 answered the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 75.8%. Among the investigated six categories’ seventeen barriers tothe implementation of the MRP, the highest rating was found for remuneration barriers (55.8%), followed by barriers related to regulations and patients, which scored 52.3% and 48.8%, respectively. Resource-related barriers were recognizedby 44.6% of participants, while qualifications and barriers related to physicians scored 42.9% and 41.8%, respectively. Although community pharmacists in Jordan are eager to extend their roles from traditional to more patient-centered ones, they encounter various barriers hinderingsuch development. Regulation adjustments accompanied by cost-effective remuneration and proper training are strong facilitators for community pharmacists to initiate the medication review service; make available the needed resources; and invest efforts, time, and money to operate it.
Is There a Need for Cultural Adaptation of the Last Aid Course?—A Mixed-Methods Study across the Danish-German Border
Authors: Bollig Georg , Safi Mariam , Schmidt Marina , Ewald Hermann
Published: April 2022

Last Aid courses (LAC) have been established in 20 countries in Europe, Australia, and America to improve the public discourse about death and dying and to empower people to contribute to end-of-life care in the community. A mixed-methods approach was used to investigate the views of LAC participants about the course and cultural differences in relation to care and nursing at the end of life in the border region of Germany and Denmark. One-day workshops were held, including Last Aid courses in German and Danish, focus group interviews, and open discussions by the participants. The results show that almost all participants appreciate the LAC as an option to talk and learn about death and end-of-life care. The informants find individual differences more important than cultural differences in end-of-life care but describe differences connected to regulations and organization of services across the border. Suggestions for adaptation and improvement of the LAC include the topics of organization and support across the border, religions, and cultures, and supporting people in grief. The findings of the study will inform a revision of the Last Aid curriculum and future projects across the border and will help to include the views of minorities.
Digital Routes in Greek History’s Paths
Authors: Kargas Antonios , Loumos Georgios , Mamakou Irene , Varoutas Dimitrios
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we present the development of a virtual reality application, namely “Roots in Greek History” or RoGH, which provides the user with a unique experiential travel or transfer back in time to specific historical periods and historical places which are part of the Greek history and its cultural heritage. The tool is a multi-purpose one which is mainly addressed to tourists, teachers, or researchers. The users are facilitated in deriving historical data, challenged to connect with the past, and are invited to explore the history and the time period, archaeological ruins, and monuments of the past through virtual reality. In order to achieve this goal, the system exploits a dynamically designed and organised chronology, which can provide historical content for various places and cities in different times of their history. Users are given the freedom to choose “place” and “time” and consequently to have access to a variety of content (including 2D or 3D models, text, photos, multimedia, etc.), in an entertaining and educational procedure that creates a personalised information path and leads to empowering knowledge.
Influence of Different Defoliation Timings on Quality and Phenolic Composition of the Wines Produced from the Serbian Autochthonous Variety Prokupac (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Ćirković Dušica , Matijašević Saša , Ćirković Bratislav , Laketić Darko , Jovanović Zoran , Kostić Boban , Bešlić Zoran , Sredojević Milica , Tešić Živoslav , Banjanac Tijana , Gašić Uroš
Published: April 2022

The variety Prokupac is the dominant variety in the vineyards of Southern Serbia, which produces quality wines of characteristic and unique tastes. In the agroecological conditions of the Prokuplje vine district, the influence of manual defoliation on the phenolic profile of the wine produced from the variety Prokupac was examined. Four experimental treatments with different timings of manual defoliation were applied: early defoliation—treatment I, early defoliation—treatment II, late defoliation—treatment III and the control. The phenolic profile of the wine was determined for the three treatments of defoliation and the control treatment. Additionally, a multivariate analysis was applied on the obtained results, together with already published data (grape seeds and skins phenolic profiles). Identification and quantification of the phenolic compounds was performed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) with an ultraviolet multi-diode detector (DAD) and mass detector with three analyzers—triple quadrupole (QQQ). Based on the obtained results, it was determined that there are significant differences between the experimental treatments in the content of individual polyphenols, total polyphenols and the antioxidant capacity. Twenty (20) phenolic compounds were identified in the wine samples of the experimental treatments. Defoliation significantly affected the variations of the contents of phenolic acids and flavonoids. In treatment III, the highest content of gallic acid was obtained, while the treatments with early defoliation did not differ in relation to the control sample. Early defoliation in treatments I and II had an effect on the phenolic composition of the wine by favoring the accumulation of flavonol, while the content of hydroxycinnamic acid and total anthocyanins (TAC) was higher in treatment III. The TAC increases with later defoliation. The wines obtained by the defoliation treatments did not show higher antioxidant activity compared to the control sample. A principal component analysis resulted in clustering of the samples based on the phenolic components characteristic for each group of samples.
Self-Incompatibility of Camellia weiningensis Y.K. Li.
Authors: Gao Chao , Wei Hongli , Qiu Jie , Long Li , Yang Lu
Published: April 2022

This study compared the pollen tube growth, fruit setting, and seed setting characteristics of Camellia weiningensis Y.K. Li. under self- and cross-pollination to identify its self-incompatibility characteristics and types. C. weiningensis pollen tube growth was observed by fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy, and a field experiment with manual pollination verified fruit and seed setting characteristics. Both self- and cross-pollinated pollen germinated from the stigma. At 72 h after cross-pollination, the pollen tube reached the style base, with tube growth showing a slow-fast-slow pattern. The tube growth speed was maximal, 343.36 μm·h−1, at 12–24 h after pollination. For self-pollination, the pollen did not germinate on the stigma 4 h before pollination. At 12–24 h after pollination, the growth rate was maximal at 263.36 μm·h−1. At 96 h, a small amount of pollen reached the style base and stagnated. The pollen tube end showed callose reactions, such as abnormal swelling, distortion, and brightness. In the field experiment, the fruit setting rate under cross-pollination was 68.5%, while that under self-pollination was 15.3%. When the fruit grew to maturity, the growth dynamics of the transverse and longitudinal diameters showed a “slow-fast-slow”, S-shaped curve. The number of aborted selfed and outcrossed seeds was 13.9 and 4.7, respectively. Thus, C. weiningensis showed self-incompatibility. The self-incompatibility reaction occurred at the style base and represented prezygotic self-incompatibility. The self-incompatibility of C. weiningensis is one of the main reasons for its low seed setting rate, which should be fully considered in cross breeding.
Influence of Lifestyle Habits in the Development of Obesity during Adolescence
Authors: Carpena Lucas Pedro Juan , Sánchez-Cubo Francisco , Vargas Vargas Manuel , Mondéjar Jiménez José
Published: April 2022

Background: The alarming increase in childhood obesity is a global public health problem since it has significant health consequences. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the potentially modifiable risk factors for developing excess weight and determine the importance of developing certain habits to prevent childhood overweight and obesity. Methods: The sample included 416 students between the ages of 12 and 14 (12.8 ± 0.62) first-year high school students from Murcia in Spain. Data were collected on their lifestyle habits through the ENHASA questionnaire, and the somatometry of the participants was measured. Such data were studied through structural equation modeling and importance-performance map analyses. Results: The modifiable risk factors that presented the greatest potency directly regarding when developing excess weight in adolescents were ‘use of electronic devices’ and ‘not performing physical activity’ (p < 0.001). ‘Social and school environment’ and ‘diet’ showed relationships but no significant differences with overweight or obesity. Globally, the lifestyle habit of the greatest importance for not being overweight was ‘engagement in extracurricular physical activities’. On the other hand, the habits related to using new technologies in a sedentary way showed the best capacity for improvement. Therefore, it would be very efficient to focus on them to control excess weight. Conclusion: Responsible and limited use of screens and engaging in extracurricular physical activities may be the most remarkable and cost-effective strategies for obesity prevention programs.
Are sEMG, Velocity and Power Influenced by Athletes’ Fixation in Paralympic Powerlifting?
Authors: Guerra Ialuska , Aidar Felipe J. , Greco Gianpiero , de Almeida-Neto Paulo Francisco , De Candia Michele , de Araújo Tinoco Cabral Breno Guilherme , Poli Luca , Filho Mauro Mazini , Carvutto Roberto , Silva Ana Filipa , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Badicu Georgian , Cataldi Stefania , Fischetti Francesco
Published: April 2022

The bench press is performed in parapowerlifting with the back, shoulders, buttocks, legs and heels extended over the bench, and the use of straps to secure the athlete to the bench is optional. Thus, the study evaluated muscle activation, surface electromyography (sEMG), maximum velocity (MaxV) and mean propulsive velocity (MPV), and power in paralympic powerlifting athletes under conditions tied or untied to the bench. Fifteen experienced Paralympic powerlifting male athletes (22.27 ± 10.30 years, 78.5 ± 21.6 kg) took part in the research. The sEMG measurement was performed in the sternal portion of the pectoralis major (PMES), anterior deltoid (AD), long head of the triceps brachii (TRI) and clavicular portion of the pectoralis major (PMCL). The MaxV, MPV and power were evaluated using an encoder. Loads of 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% 1RM were analyzed under untied and tied conditions. No differences were found in muscle activation between the tied and untied conditions; however, sEMG showed differences in the untied condition between AD and TRI (F (3112) = 4.484; p = 0.005) in the 100% 1RM load, between PMCL and AD (F (3112) = 3.743; p = 0.013) in 60% 1RM load and in the tied condition, between the PMES and the AD (F (3112) = 4.067; p = 0.009). There were differences in MaxV (F (3112) = 213.3; p < 0.001), and MPV (F (3112) = 248.2; p < 0.001), between all loads in the tied and untied condition. In power, the load of 100% 1RM differed from all other relative loads (F (3112) = 36.54; p < 0.001) in both conditions. The tied condition seems to favor muscle activation, sEMG, and velocity over the untied condition.
Healthcare Workers’ Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccination in Russia
Authors: Briko Nikolay I. , Korshunov Vladimir A. , Mindlina Alla Ya , Polibin Roman V. , Antipov Maksim O. , Brazhnikov Alexey I. , Vyazovichenko Yurii E. , Glushkova Ekaterina V. , Lomonosov Kirill S. , Lomonosova Alena V. , Lopukhov Platon D. , Pozdnyakov Artem A. , Saltykova Tatiana S. , Torchinsky Nikolay V. , Tsapkova Natalia N. , Chernyavskaya Olga P. , Shamis Arseny V.
Published: April 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the problem of the population’s adherence to vaccination has become significantly aggravated around the world. This study is aimed at evaluating healthcare workers’ (HCWs) acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination in Russia. A cross-sectional multicenter study was carried out by interviewing HCWs in Russia using an electronic questionnaire and snowball sampling. The analysis included 85,216 questionnaires from 81 out of 85 regions of Russia. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.22. The results indicated that 35.0% (CI 95%, 34.7–35.3) of HCWs were ready to get COVID-19 vaccination. The acceptance level was 42.4% (41.8–42.9) for all physicians and 31.3% (30.9–31.6) for nursing staff. A total of 29.4% (29.1–29.7) of HCWs were willing to recommend COVID-19 vaccination to patients: 38.5% (38.0–39.1) of physicians, and 24.7% (24.4–25.1) of nursing staff. Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination is higher among HCWs dealing with infectious diseases and involved in vaccination. The low acceptance of HCWs toward vaccination against COVID-19 can be explained by the low level of awareness of HCWs in these issues. Additional educational programs are needed for HCWs, both for physicians and nurses, using all possible forms and methods of education.
Cardiovascular Outcomes among Combustible-Tobacco and Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) Users in Waves 1 through 5 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, 2013–2019
Authors: Mahoney Martin C. , Rivard Cheryl , Kimmel Heather L. , Hammad Hoda T. , Sharma Eva , Halenar Michael J. , Sargent Jim , Cummings K. Michael , Niaura Ray , Goniewicz Maciej L. , Bansal-Travers Maansi , Hatsukami Dorothy , Gaalema Diann , Fong Geoffrey , Gravely Shannon , Christensen Carol H. , Haskins Ryan , Silveira Marushka L. , Blanco Carlos , Compton Wilson , Stanton Cassandra A. , Hyland Andrew
Published: April 2022

Background: Prior studies have not clearly established risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among smokers who switch to exclusive use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). We compared cardiovascular disease incidence in combustible-tobacco users, those who transitioned to ENDS use, and those who quit tobacco with never tobacco users. Methods: This prospective cohort study analyzes five waves of Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study data, Wave 1 (2013–2014) through Wave 5 (2018–2019). Cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence was captured over three intervals (Waves 1 to 3, Waves 2 to 4, and Waves 3 to 5). Participants were adults (40+ years old) without a history of CVD for the first two waves of any interval. Change in tobacco use status, from exclusive past 30 day use of any combustible-tobacco product to either exclusive past 30 day ENDS use, dual past 30 day use of ENDS and combustible-tobacco, or no past 30 day use of any tobacco, between the first two waves of an interval was used to predict onset of CVD between the second and third waves in the interval. CVD incidence was defined as a new self-report of being told by a health professional that they had congestive heart failure, stroke, or a myocardial infarction. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) analyses combined 10,548 observations across intervals from 7820 eligible respondents. Results: Overall, there were 191 observations of CVD among 10,548 total observations (1.7%, standard error (SE) = 0.2), with 40 among 3014 never users of tobacco (1.5%, SE = 0.3). In multivariable models, CVD incidence was not significantly different for any tobacco user groups compared to never users. There were 126 observations of CVD among 6263 continuing exclusive combustible-tobacco users (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.44; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.87–2.39), 15 observations of CVD among 565 who transitioned to dual use (AOR = 1.85; 0.78–4.37), and 10 observations of CVD among 654 who quit using tobacco (AOR = 1.18; 0.33–4.26). There were no observations of CVD among 53 who transitioned to exclusive ENDS use. Conclusions: This study found no difference in CVD incidence by tobacco status over three 3 year intervals, even for tobacco quitters. It is possible that additional waves of PATH Study data, combined with information from other large longitudinal cohorts with careful tracking of ENDS use patterns may help to further clarify this relationship.
Expert Consensus on a Proposed Study Framework to Explore Factors Influencing Plasmodium knowlesi Malaria Preventive Behavior: A Modified Delphi Method Protocol
Authors: Naserrudin Nurul Athirah , Hod Rozita , Jeffree Mohammad Saffree , Ahmed Kamruddin , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat
Published: April 2022

The increasing incidence of P. knowlesi malaria infection among humans is a public health threat. This zoonotic disease is challenging to eliminate owing to the presence of animal reservoirs. Understanding the factors such as the community’s belief, social context, drivers, and barriers can provide insights into malaria preventive behavior. It is crucial to improve the current preventive measures. This study aims to achieve consensus among malaria experts based on evidence from literature reviews and experts’ opinions on possible factors influencing malaria preventive behavior among communities exposed to P. knowlesi malaria infection. A modified Delphi study protocol was developed to gather experts’ consensus on the study framework to explore the factors influencing preventive behavior among communities exposed to P. knowlesi malaria infection. The framework is adapted from the ideation model, and it is integrated with other relevant theories and extensive literature reviews. We will use the modified Delphi protocol to reach a consensus. The experts will respond to each questionnaire item and a related open-ended questionnaire. Consensus is predetermined at more than 70% agreement on the items. We will use descriptive statistics and thematic analysis to analyze the data. All experts will remain anonymous to maintain the characteristics of a traditional Delphi study.
Enhancing Physical Activity and Psychological Well-Being in College Students during COVID-19 through WeActive and WeMindful Interventions
Authors: Friedman Kathryn , Marenus Michele W. , Murray Andy , Cahuas Ana , Ottensoser Haley , Sanowski Julia , Chen Weiyun
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to examine the immediate and short-term effects of aerobic and resistance training (WeActive) and mindful exercise (WeMindful) virtual interventions in improving physical activity (PA) and resilience among college students. Participants were 55 students who were randomly assigned to either the WeActive group (n = 31) or the WeMindful group (n = 24). Both groups attended two virtual 30 min aerobic and resistance training sessions (WeActive) or mindful exercise sessions (WeMindful) per week for eight weeks. All participants completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10) via Qualtrics one week prior to (pre-test) and after the intervention (post-test) and 6 weeks after the intervention (follow up). There was a significant main effect of time for resilience (F = 3.4.15, p = 0.024), where both the WeActive group and the WeMindful group significantly increased the resilience scores from pre-test to follow up (t = −2.74, p = 0.02; t = −2.54, p = 0.04), respectively. For moderate physical activity (MPA), there was a significant interaction effect of time with group (F = 4.81, p = 0.01, η2 = 0.038), where the WeActive group significantly increased MPA over time from pre-test to follow-up test as compared to the WeMindful group (t = −2.6, p = 0.033). Only the WeActive intervention was effective in increasing MPA. Both interventions were effective in increasing resilience from pre-test to 6 week follow up.
Exploring Factors Contributing to the Smoking Behaviour among Hong Kong Chinese Young Smokers during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lam Katherine-Ka-Wai , Ho Ka-Yan , Wu Cynthia-Sau-Ting , Tong Man-Nok , Tang Lai-Ngo , Mak Yim-Wah
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 has significant impacts on young smokers in their smoking behaviors. This qualitative study summarises the lived experience of young smokers during COVID-19. Moreover, through their lived experience, we aim to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic influence tobacco use behaviours in this population. A purposive sampling of 48 smokers aged between 17–25 years old is individually interviewed for 30 to 45 min. All interviews are transcribed in verbatim and analysed by two researchers separately using Colaizzi’s method of descriptive phenomenology. The results reveal the following six important themes, which could explain the mixed pattern of smoking behaviour changes in young smokers: (1) perceptions of COVID-19 and its association with smoking, (2) more time at home, (3) taking masks off to smoke, (4) the effects of COVID-19 on smokers’ financial status and academic performance, (5) reduced social gatherings, and (6) restricted access to tobacco products. To conclude, this pandemic and the anti-pandemic measures, i.e., mask mandates, stay-at-home and work-from-home orders, and class suspension, result in both new obstacles and new advantages for smoking cessation among young people. More studies should be performed to monitor any transition of tobacco products and the trajectory of use in this population during this pandemic, thus informing public health policy making.
Key Role of Multidisciplinary Collaboration towards Global Elimination of HCV Infection
Authors: Krekulova Laura , Oktabec Zbynek , Riley Lee W.
Published: April 2022

The elimination of HCV (hepatitis C virus) infection is, according to WHO (World Health Organization), of international interest. With new diagnostic tools and treatment possibilities, one major challenge for the elimination is to involve infected patients, especially those from socially excluded subpopulations, into HCV infection-treatment programs. The key question is how to help people who inject drugs (PWID) to engage in HCV infection-treatment programs and improve communication between PWID and hepatologists or other medical professionals involved in the treatment of chronic HCV infection. Furthermore, the medical professionals have to accept the changing spectrum of patients with chronic viral hepatitis. Without close interdisciplinary cooperation, it would be extremely difficult to achieve the WHO goal of global viral hepatitis C elimination. Here, we try to encourage our colleagues as well as addictologists and social workers to play their crucial part in the viral hepatitis C eradication process. It is extremely important for the healthcare providers to be able to communicate with addicted clients, inform PWID about the latest developments in the diagnosis and HCV infection treatment, and get them motivated to engage with specialized treatment programs.
Effect of a Digitally-Enabled, Preventive Health Program on Blood Pressure in an Adult, Dutch General Population Cohort: An Observational Pilot Study
Authors: Castela Forte José , Folkertsma Pytrik , Gannamani Rahul , Kumaraswamy Sridhar , van Dam Sipko , Hoogsteen Jan
Published: April 2022

Worldwide, it is estimated that at least one in four adults suffers from hypertension, and this number is expected to increase as populations grow and age. Blood pressure (BP) possesses substantial heritability, but is also heavily modulated by lifestyle factors. As such, digital, lifestyle-based interventions are a promising alternative to standard care for hypertension prevention and management. In this study, we assessed the prevalence of elevated and high BP in a Dutch general population cohort undergoing a health screening, and observed the effects of a subsequent self-initiated, digitally-enabled lifestyle program on BP regulation. Baseline data were available for 348 participants, of which 56 had partaken in a BP-focused lifestyle program and got remeasured 10 months after the intervention. Participants with elevated SBP and DBP at baseline showed a mean decrease of 7.2 mmHg and 5.4 mmHg, respectively. Additionally, 70% and 72.5% of participants showed an improvement in systolic and diastolic BP at remeasurement. These improvements in BP are superior to those seen in other recent studies. The long-term sustainability and the efficacy of this and similar digital lifestyle interventions will need to be established in additional, larger studies.
A Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of Telemedicine in Glycemic Management among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Primary Care
Authors: Zhang Anqi , Wang Jinsong , Wan Xiaojuan , Zhang Ziyi , Zhao Shuhan , Guo Zihe , Wang Chufan
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Telemedicine interventions are gradually being used in primary health care to help patients with type 2 diabetes receive ongoing medical guidance. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of using telemedicine in primary health care for the management of patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A systematic search was conducted from database inception to August 2021 in nine databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, EBSCO, CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP, and CBM. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed for studies that met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4 (Cochrane) and Stata v.16.0SE (College Station, TX, USA). Results: A total of 32 articles were included in this study. Analysis showed a reduction in glycated hemoglobin, fasting glucose, and postprandial glucose after the telemedicine intervention. Systolic blood pressure and self-efficacy improved significantly, but there was no significant improvement in weight, lipid metabolism, or diabetes awareness. Subgroup analysis based on the duration of intervention showed significant improvement in glycated hemoglobin at 6 months of intervention. Conclusions: Telemedicine interventions may help patients with type 2 diabetes to effectively control blood glucose and improve self-management in primary health care. There is only moderate benefit, and the benefit may not be sustained beyond 6 months. However, the evidence for the improvement in lipid metabolism is insufficient and further studies are needed.
Ecological Restoration and Carbon Sequestration Regulation of Mining Areas—A Case Study of Huangshi City
Authors: Liao Qipeng , Liu Xinran , Xiao Mingzhu
Published: April 2022

As an important carbon sink indicator, the vegetation net primary productivity (NPP) is key and helpful for understanding regional carbon sequestration and storage of mining areas. Systematic analysis of NPP of the ecological reconstruction process in mining areas can effectively contribute to local governments and related departments for making ecological decisions under the “double carbon goals” (“peak of carbon release” and “carbon neutrality”) and help to promote regional sustainable development. In this study, we used the CASA model to systematically assess the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics of NPP of Huangshi City from 1990 to 2018. Meanwhile, various scenarios were set up to study the effects of climate factors, landscape pattern evolution, and ecological restoration on regional carbon storage. Our results documented that (1) NPP of the study area an increasing trend from 1990–2018 shows and exhibits significant spatial heterogeneity; (2) the significant increase of NPP was mainly in the restored mining areas, indicating that the ecological restoration of mining areas can effectively improve the regional carbon sequestration capacity; (3) from 1990 to 2018, climate change released 0.136 TgC, while landscape pattern change contributed to carbon storage with 0.266 TgC; and (4) the restoration and reconstruction of vegetation in the mining areas is an important way to achieve carbon neutrality of Huangshi City in the future, and the changes of NPP varied among different ecological restoration modes.
The Influence of Nurse Education Level on Hospital Readmissions—A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Wieczorek-Wójcik Beata , Gaworska-Krzemińska Aleksandra , Owczarek Aleksander , Wójcik Michał , Orzechowska Monika , Kilańska Dorota
Published: April 2022

Background: Readmissions are adverse, costly, and potentially preventable. The study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of reducing readmissions resulting from missed care, depending on the level of education of nurses, from the perspective of the service provider. Methods: We calculated missed care resulting in additional readmissions based on the longitudinal study conducted between 2012 and 2014, as well as readmissions that could have been potentially prevented by adding a 10% increase in hours of nursing care provided by BSN/MSc nurses for 2014. The cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) was performed to calculate the cost-effectiveness of preventing one hospitalization in non-surgical and surgical wards by increasing the number of nursing hours provided by BSN/MSc nurses. Cost–benefit analysis (CBA) was performed, and the CBR (cost–benefit ratio) and BCR (benefit–cost ratio) were calculated. Results: Increasing the number of hours of nursing care (RN) by 10% decreased the chance for an unplanned readmission by 11%; (OR = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.78−1.01; p = 0.08) in non-surgical wards and 43% (OR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.49−0.67; p < 0.001) in surgical wards. In non-surgical wards, the number of readmissions that were preventable with extra hours provided by BSN/MSc nurses was 52, and the cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) was USD 226.1. The number of preventable readmissions in surgical wards was 172, and the CER was USD 54.96. In non-surgical wards, the CBR was USD 0.07, while the BCR was USD 1.4. In surgical wards, the CBR was USD 0.02, and the BCR was USD 4.4. Conclusions: The results of these studies broaden the understanding of the relationship among nursing education, patient readmission, and the economic outcomes of hospital care. According to the authors, the proposed intervention has an economic justification. Hence, the authors recommend it for approval by the service provider.