bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Not-Talking/Not-Knowing: Autoethnography and Settler Family Histories in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Morris Carolyn
Published: January 2022

Critical family history analyses have generated powerful insights into the history and ongoing workings of colonization by bringing to light forgotten family histories and reframing them as stories of colonialism. Such work unsettles the descendants of early colonizers by compelling them to acknowledge the ways in which they continue to benefit from the colonizing actions of their ancestors. My family were colonizers, and some not-very-distant ancestors were part of the first wave of “settlers” who dispossessed Māori of their land in coastal Taranaki. Where my family differs from the families of many writers in the critical family history field is that they remain almost to this day on the land first taken by our direct ancestors. The question I address is how these settler farmers deal with the fact that the land that is now theirs is only recently so, and only became so through acts of violent dispossession, and that the descendants of the original possessors of that land continue to live on the Coast. I argue that one way that settler-colonizers deal with this uncomfortable history is to erase it. The erasure of this history is accomplished through the simple but effective strategy of not-talking about it, which leads to not-knowing about it. This practice, I suggest is critical for the subjective security of settlers, and it remains a crucial strategy in ongoing practices of quotidian colonization. My analysis emanates from a critically reflexive exploration of my memories, of what I know and what I do not know about the history of the farm I grew up on, and demonstrates that autoethnography as a methodology is particularly useful for interrogating and breaking the silences about colonization that contribute to its perpetuation.
Stability and Oligomerization of Mutated SMN Protein Determine Clinical Severity of Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Niba Emma , Nishio Hisahide , Wijaya Yogik , Ar Rochmah Mawaddah , Takarada Toru , Takeuchi Atsuko , Kimizu Tomokazu , Okamoto Kentaro , Saito Toshio , Awano Hiroyuki , Takeshima Yasuhiro , Shinohara Masakazu
Published: January 2022

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a common autosomal recessive neuromuscular disease characterized by defects of lower motor neurons. Approximately 95% of SMA patients are homozygous for survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene deletion, while ~5% carry an intragenic SMN1 mutation. Here, we investigated the stability and oligomerization ability of mutated SMN1 proteins. Plasmids containing wild- and mutant-type SMN1 cDNA were constructed and transfected into HeLa cells. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) demonstrated similar abundances of transcripts from the plasmids containing SMN cDNA, but Western blotting showed different expression levels of mutated SMN1 proteins, reflecting the degree of their instability. A mutated SMN1 protein with T274YfsX32 exhibited a much lower expression level than other mutated SMN1 proteins with E134K, Y276H, or Y277C. In immunoprecipitation analysis, the mutated SMN1 protein with T274YfsX32 did not bind to endogenous SMN1 protein in HeLa cells, suggesting that this mutation completely blocks the oligomerization with full-length SMN2 protein in the patient. The patient with T274YfsX32 showed a much more severe phenotype than the other patients with different mutations. In conclusion, the stability and oligomerization ability of mutated SMN1 protein may determine the protein stability and may be associated with the clinical severity of SMA caused by intragenic SMN1 mutation.
The Dynamic Behavior of Chromatin in Response to DNA Double-Strand Breaks
Authors: García Fernández Fabiola , Fabre Emmanuelle
Published: January 2022

The primary functions of the eukaryotic nucleus as a site for the storage, retrieval, and replication of information require a highly dynamic chromatin organization, which can be affected by the presence of DNA damage. In response to double-strand breaks (DSBs), the mobility of chromatin at the break site is severely affected and, to a lesser extent, that of other chromosomes. The how and why of such movement has been widely studied over the last two decades, leading to different mechanistic models and proposed potential roles underlying both local and global mobility. Here, we review the state of the knowledge on current issues affecting chromatin mobility upon DSBs, and highlight its role as a crucial step in the DNA damage response (DDR).
APOE Polymorphism and Endocrine Functions in Subjects with Morbid Obesity Undergoing Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Farup Per G. , Jansen Aina , Hestad Knut , Aaseth Jan O. , Rootwelt Helge
Published: January 2022

Background: Obesity is an interplay between genes and the environment, including lifestyle. The genetics of obesity is insufficiently understood. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) genetic polymorphism has been associated with a wide range of disorders. Knowing that some APOE alleles are associated with obesity and endocrine disorders that are common in obesity, the present study aimed at exploring associations between APOE polymorphisms and endocrine functions in subjects with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. Methods: Analyses of hormones in blood collected before and one year after bariatric surgery were examined. The APOE alleles were grouped as follows: E2 = ε2ε2 + ε2ε3; E3 = ε3ε3 + ε2ε4; E4 = ε3ε4 + ε4ε4. The APOE groups were analysed as nominal and ordered groups (E2-E3-E4) with a linear mixed model to predict the hormonal effects of the groups. Results: Forty-nine women (79%) and thirteen (21%) men with a mean age of 47.7 (SD 8.5) years were included in the study. The adiponectin level was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the E2 group compared with the E4 group. Adiponectin and cortisol were positively and negatively associated, respectively, with the ordered APOE groups. Conclusions: The ordered APOE groups E2-E3-E4 were significantly associated with high and low levels of adiponectin and cortisol, respectively. The findings indicate APOE-mediated effects on body weight and metabolic functions in subjects with morbid obesity.
A Gain-of-Function Mutation on BCKDK Gene and Its Possible Pathogenic Role in Branched-Chain Amino Acid Metabolism
Authors: Maguolo Alice , Rodella Giulia , Giorgetti Alejandro , Nicolodi Marion , Ribeiro Rui , Dianin Alice , Cantalupo Gaetano , Monge Irene , Carcereri Sarah , De Bernardi Margherita Lucia , Delledonne Massimo , Pasini Andrea , Campostrini Natascia , Ion Popa Florina , Piacentini Giorgio , Teofoli Francesca , Vincenzi Monica , Camilot Marta , Bordugo Andrea
Published: January 2022

BCKDK is an important key regulator of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase complex activity by phosphorylating and so inactivating branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenases, the rate-limiting enzyme of the branched-chain amino acid metabolism. We identified, by whole exome-sequencing analysis, the p.His162Gln variant of the BCKDK gene in a neonate, picked up by newborn screening, with a biochemical phenotype of a mild form of maple syrup urine disease (MSUD). The same biochemical and genetic picture was present in the father. Computational analysis of the mutation was performed to better understand its role. Extensive atomistic molecular dynamics simulations showed that the described mutation leads to a conformational change of the BCKDK protein, which reduces the effect of inhibitory binding bound to the protein itself, resulting in its increased activity with subsequent inactivation of BCKDC and increased plasmatic branched-chain amino acid levels. Our study describes the first evidence of the involvement of the BCKDK gene in a mild form of MSUD. Although further data are needed to elucidate the clinical relevance of the phenotype caused by this variant, awareness of this regulatory activation of BCKDK is very important, especially in newborn screening data interpretation.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Geographies in 2021
Authors:   Geographies Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Sliding Stability Assessment of Concrete Dams Using a 3D Discontinuum Hydromechanical Model Following a Discrete Crack Approach
Authors: Farinha Maria Luísa Braga , Azevedo Nuno Monteiro , Schclar Leitão Noemi Alejandra , Rocha de Almeida João , Oliveira Sérgio
Published: January 2022

Evaluation of the sliding stability of concrete dams requires the use of numerical tools not only able to simulate the coupled hydromechanical behavior but also able to adequately represent the foundation discontinuities and the specific features of dam foundations. The formulation of a three-dimensional (3D) small displacement finite element model based on interface elements to simulate the discontinuities is presented. In this model, the hydraulic behavior is simulated assuming that the water flow occurs only along channels located at the edges of the triangular interface elements that simulate the discontinuities. The model is used to perform coupled hydromechanical analysis of a large arch-gravity dam and to assess safety against dam base sliding, assuming different constitutive models at the dam/foundation interface and two different approaches: (i) strength reduction method and (ii) amplification of the hydrostatic pressure, assuming an increase in the reservoir level. The present study shows that consistent results are obtained with the proposed numerical model and that stability analysis should preferably be carried out using the method of increasing the hydrostatic pressure and the corresponding uplift pressures, as this methodology leads to significantly lower safety factors.
A Review of Potential Role of Capsule Endoscopy in the Work-Up for Chemotherapy-Induced Diarrhea
Authors: Ando Takayuki , Sakumura Miho , Mihara Hiroshi , Fujinami Haruka , Yasuda Ichiro
Published: January 2022

Chemotherapy-induced diarrhea (CID) is a common, severe side effect of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Because patients are more prone to continuing chemotherapy if they do not suffer from CID, appropriate diagnosis and monitoring of this disease are essential. However, suitable monitoring methods are yet to be developed. To date, several studies have shown that small-bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) is useful in visualizing the entire small intestinal mucosa and detecting small intestinal abnormalities, including bleeding, malignant tumors, and mucosal injury, associated with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and low-dose aspirin. Currently, limited studies have evaluated the small intestinal mucosa using SBCE in patients receiving fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy or immune checkpoint inhibitors. These studies have reported that small intestinal mucosal injury is common in patients with severe fluoropyrimidine-induced diarrhea. SBCE might be a useful screening method for the early detection of enterocolitis induced by immune checkpoint inhibitors. SBCE may be a powerful tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of CID, and understanding its indication, contraindication, and capsule-retention risk for each patient is important for clinicians.
Are Non-Contact Thermometers an Option in Anaesthesia? A Narrative Review on Thermometry for Perioperative Medicine
Authors: van Zundert Andre , Intaprasert Tonchanok , Wiepking Floris , Eley Victoria
Published: January 2022

Measurement of core body temperature—clinical thermometry—provides critical information to anaesthetists during perioperative care. The value of this information is determined by the accuracy of the measurement device used. This accuracy must be maintained despite external influences such as the operating room temperature and the patient’s thermoregulatory defence. Presently, perioperative thermometers utilise invasive measurement sites. The public health challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, has highlighted the use of non-invasive, non-contact infrared thermometers. The aim of this article is to review common existing thermometers used in perioperative care, their mechanisms of action, accuracy, and practicality in comparison to infrared non-contact thermometry used for population screening during a pandemic. Evidence currently shows that contact thermometry varies in accuracy and practicality depending on the site of measurements and the method of sterilisation or disposal between uses. Despite the benefits of being a non-invasive and non-contact device, infrared thermometry used for population temperature screening lacks the accuracy required in perioperative medicine. Inaccuracy may be a consequence of uncontrolled external temperatures, the patient’s actions prior to measurement, distance between the patient and the thermometer, and the different sites of measurement. A re-evaluation of non-contact thermometry is recommended, requiring new studies in more controlled environments.
User Engagement and Abandonment of mHealth: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Mustafa Abdulsalam Salihu , Ali Nor’ashikin , Dhillon Jaspaljeet Singh , Alkawsi Gamal , Baashar Yahia
Published: January 2022

Mobile health (mHealth) apps have great potential to improve health outcomes. Given that mHealth apps have become ubiquitous, there is limited focus on their abandonment. Data concerning crucial metrics, including reasons for adoption and discontinued use, are limited. This study aims to gain broad insights into utilization of mHealth and game-like features promoting user engagement. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 209 mHealth users worldwide. The 17-item survey assessed sociodemographics, as well as the key motivators for mHealth uptake and discontinued use. Our findings show that sports and fitness activity tracking were the most common categories of health apps, with most users engaging with them at least several times a week. Interestingly, the most downloaded mHealth apps among younger adults include MyFitnessPal, Fitbit, Nike Run Club, and Samsung Health. Critical drivers of abandonment of mHealth apps were amotivation, loss of interest, and experimenting with different apps to identify the most suitable tool. Additionally, the financial cost of mHealth apps is crucial, with most participants advocating for free or more affordable apps. The study findings suggest that while many individuals utilize mHealth, several factors drive their abandonment. Moreover, data indicate that mHealth developers need to consider gamification strategies to sustain user commitment, as well as psychological variables, such as intrinsic motivation.
Machine Learning for Predicting Risk of Early Dropout in a Recovery Program for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Gottlieb Assaf , Yatsco Andrea , Bakos-Block Christine , Langabeer James R. , Champagne-Langabeer Tiffany
Published: January 2022

Background: An increase in opioid use has led to an opioid crisis during the last decade, leading to declarations of a public health emergency. In response to this call, the Houston Emergency Opioid Engagement System (HEROES) was established and created an emergency access pathway into long-term recovery for individuals with an opioid use disorder. A major contributor to the success of the program is retention of the enrolled individuals in the program. Methods: We have identified an increase in dropout from the program after 90 and 120 days. Based on more than 700 program participants, we developed a machine learning approach to predict the individualized risk for dropping out of the program. Results: Our model achieved sensitivity of 0.81 and specificity of 0.65 for dropout at 90 days and improved the performance to sensitivity of 0.86 and specificity of 0.66 for 120 days. Additionally, we identified individual risk factors for dropout, including previous overdose and relapse and improvement in reported quality of life. Conclusions: Our informatics approach provides insight into an area where programs may allocate additional resources in order to retain high-risk individuals and increase the chances of success in recovery.
The Use of Modern Technologies by Dentists in Poland: Questionnaire among Polish Dentists
Authors: Świtała Mateusz , Zakrzewski Wojciech , Rybak Zbigniew , Szymonowicz Maria , Dobrzyński Maciej
Published: January 2022

Background: From one year to another, dentists have access to more procedures using modern techniques. Many of them can improve the effectiveness of dental procedures and frequently facilitate and accelerate them. Objectives: Technically advanced devices are an important part of modern dentistry. Over the years, there were developed technologies like ultrasounds, lasers, air abrasion, ozonotherapy, caries diagnostic methods, chemomechanical caries removal (CMCR), pulp vitality tests, computer-controlled local anesthetic delivery (CCLAD). The aim of this study was to investigate the requirement of Polish dentists for such technologies. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was posted on a social media group of dentists from Poland. 187 responses were obtained. Results: It turned out that almost every respondent uses ultrasounds, but other technologies are not as popular. 43% use CCLAD, 33% use diagnostic methods, 28% use air abrasion, 25% use dental lasers, 21% use CMCR, 18% use pulp vitality tests and 6% use ozonotherapy. The most common reason for not using the aforementioned technologies were their high cost and the sufficient effectiveness of raditional methods. There was a correlation between use of a dental laser and CCLAD and size of office, CMCR use and dentists’ work time and air abrasion use and gender. Many dentists claim that they will try one of the modern technologies in the future. Conclusions: It can be concluded that Polish dentists tend to use ultrasounds and CCLAD more than any other technology. In the future this may change, so more studies in this topic are needed.
Clinicians’ Social Support, Job Stress, and Intent to Leave Healthcare during COVID-19
Authors: Tabur Ayhan , Choudhury Avishek , Emhan Abdurrahim , Mengenci Cengiz , Asan Onur
Published: January 2022

The onset of COVID-19 has escalated healthcare workers’ psychological distress. Multiple factors, including prolonged exposure to COVID-19 patients, irregular working hours, and workload, have substantially contributed to stress and burnout among healthcare workers. To explore the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare workers, our study compares the job stress, social support, and intention to leave the job among healthcare workers working in a pandemic (HP) and a non-pandemic hospital (HNP) in Turkey during the pandemic. The cross-sectional, paper-based survey involved 403 healthcare workers including physicians, registered nurses, health technicians, and auxiliary staff across two hospitals from 1 September 2020 to 31 November 2020. The findings indicate a significant impact of ‘Job stress’ on ‘Intent to leave’ job among participants in the HP. We noted that ‘intent to leave’ and ‘job stress’ were significantly higher among the HP healthcare workers than those working in the HNP, respectively. However, workers’ ‘social support’ was significantly lower in the HP. Healthcare workers, during COVID-19, face several hurdles such as job stress, reduced social support, and excessive workload, all of which are potential factors influencing a care provider’s intent to leave the job.
Current and Future Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Gautam Nitesh , Saluja Prachi , Malkawi Abdallah , Rabbat Mark G. , Al-Mallah Mouaz H. , Pontone Gianluca , Zhang Yiye , Lee Benjamin C. , Al’Aref Subhi J.
Published: January 2022

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) carry significant morbidity and mortality and are associated with substantial economic burden on healthcare systems around the world. Coronary artery disease, as one disease entity under the CVDs umbrella, had a prevalence of 7.2% among adults in the United States and incurred a financial burden of 360 billion US dollars in the years 2016–2017. The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning over the last two decades has unlocked new dimensions in the field of cardiovascular medicine. From automatic interpretations of heart rhythm disorders via smartwatches, to assisting in complex decision-making, AI has quickly expanded its realms in medicine and has demonstrated itself as a promising tool in helping clinicians guide treatment decisions. Understanding complex genetic interactions and developing clinical risk prediction models, advanced cardiac imaging, and improving mortality outcomes are just a few areas where AI has been applied in the domain of coronary artery disease. Through this review, we sought to summarize the advances in AI relating to coronary artery disease, current limitations, and future perspectives.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Hemato in 2021
Authors:   Hemato Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Northwest Native Plants: A Digital Space for Paleoethnobotanical Knowledges and Biocultural Heritage
Authors: Carney Molly , Diedrich Melanie , Blong John C. , d’Alpoim Guedes Jade , Fulkerson Tiffany J. , Kite Tiffany , Leonard-Doll Katy , LeCompte-Mastenbrook Joyce , Zimmermann Mario , Tushingham Shannon
Published: January 2022

Biocultural heritage preservation relies on ethnobotanical knowledge and the paleoethnobotanical data used in (re)constructing histories of human–biota interactions. Biocultural heritage, defined as the knowledge and practices of Indigenous and local peoples and their biological relatives, is often guarded information, meant for specific audiences and withheld from other social circles. As such, these forms of heritage and knowledge must also be included in the ongoing data sovereignty discussions and movement. In this paper we share the process and design decisions behind creating an online database for ethnobotanical knowledge and associated paleoethnobotanical data, using a content management system designed to foreground Indigenous and local perspectives. Our main purpose is to suggest that the Mukurtu content management system, originally designed for physical items of cultural importance, be considered as a potential tool for digitizing and ethically circulating biocultural heritage, including paleoethnobotanical resources. With this database, we aim to create access to biocultural heritage and paleoethnobotanical considerations for a variety of audiences while also respecting the protected and sensitive natures of Indigenous and local knowledges.
The Potential of Fermented Food from Southeast Asia as Biofertiliser
Authors: Mohd Zaini Nurul Solehah , Idris Hamidah , Yaacob Jamilah Syafawati , Wan-Mohtar Wan Abd Al Qadr Imad , Putra Samsudin Nik Iskandar , Abdul Sukor Arina Shairah , Lim Elicia Jitming , Abd Rahim Muhamad Hafiz
Published: January 2022

The intensive amount of chemical usage in agricultural practices could contribute to a significant impact on food safety issues and environmental health. Over-usage of chemical fertilisers may alter soil characteristics and contaminate water sources, leading to several human and animal health issues. Recently, there have been efforts to use microbial biofertilisers as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practice in the common household of Southeast Asia. Traditionally, this method tends to utilise leftover food materials and readily available bacterial cultures, such as yoghurt drinks, and ferment them under a specific period in either solid or liquid form. So far, most of the testimonial-based feedbacks from local communities have been positive, but only limited information is available in the literature regarding the usage of biofertiliser fermented food (BFF). Previously, raw food waste has been used in the agriculture system to promote plant growth, however, the functional role of fermented food in enhancing plant growth have yet to be discovered. An understanding of the symbiotic relationship between fermented food and plants could be exploited to improve agricultural plant production more sustainably. Fermented food is known to be rich in good microbial flora (especially lactic acid bacteria (LAB)). LAB exist in different sources of fermented food and can act as a plant growth-promoting agent, improving the nutrient availability of food waste and other organic materials. Therefore, in this review, the potential use of seafood-based, plant-based, and animal-based fermented food as biofertiliser, especially from Southeast Asia, will be discussed based on their types and microbial and nutritional contents. The different types of fermented food provide a wide range of microbial flora for the enrichment of proteins, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals content in enhancing plant growth and overall development of the plant. The current advances of biofertiliser and practices of BFF will also be discussed in this review.
Calibration of Thermal Dissipation Probes for Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
Authors: Alla Fouzia , Jdaini Kawtar , M’hamdi Hanane , Mechchate Hamza , AlZain Mashail , Alzamel Nurah , Noman Omar , Mimouni Jamal , Elhoumaizi Mohammed
Published: January 2022

The quantification of water flow through the stem is vital for date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) to promote a good water stress management. The thermal dissipation probe (TDP) method developed by Granier is widely used to evaluate transpiration of forest trees; however, there are contradictory reports regarding its reliability. Considerable errors in estimated sap flux density, which might be due to a lack ofspecies-specific calibrations. The TDP method uses a mathematical model that is based on an empirical equation to estimate sap flux density, which is claimed to be applicable to all tree species, independently of wood structure and anatomy. At the laboratory, we compared the rate of water uptake by cut stems with sap flux estimates derived from the TDP method to assess the validity of the method.Our calibration results were considerably different compared to the Granier’s original equation. Moreover, sap flux density was overestimated by 18.2 ± 0.5% when the original calibration parameters of Granierare employed. However, using new calibration parameters improved the accuracy of sap flow measurements. Our results indicated that it is not appropriate to use a general equation for different species. Therefore, previous estimations of date palm’s water requirement through thermal dissipation probes should be revised.
Complementary Nutrients in Decoupled Aquaponics Enhance Basil Performance
Authors: Rodgers Dylan , Won Eugene , Timmons Michael B. , Mattson Neil
Published: January 2022

Aquaponics combines raising fish and growing plants by recycling water and nutrients to reduce water consumption and reliance on chemical fertilizers. Coupled aquaponics systems recirculate water between fish and plant crops, whereas decoupled systems send mineralized fish effluent and wastewater unidirectionally to an independent hydroponic loop. Decoupling enables changes to the water, such as pH adjustments and complementary nutrient additions, to promote plant performance. In this study, basil, Ocimum basilicum (L.), was transplanted into 4 L containers filled with decoupled aquaponic (DAP), nutrient-complemented decoupled aquaponic (DAP+), or chemical-based conventional hydroponic (CON) nutrient solutions and grown for 21 days at pH 5.8. Plants grown in DAP+ and CON had greater biomass, height, and Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) chlorophyll index and lower root:shoot biomass ratios than those in DAP. Shoot fresh and dry biomass was 11% greater for CON than DAP+, while height, SPAD chlorophyll index, and root:shoot ratio did not differ. We concluded that added nutrients in DAP+ enhanced performance compared to DAP, and the biologically derived nutrition in DAP+ enhanced performance to be similar, but not equal, to CON. We cannot recommend specific adjustments to the targeted blend of complementary nutrients tested, but findings suggest that complementary nutrients are effective in decoupled aquaponics.
Effects of the Early Phase of COVID-19 on the Autistic Community in Sweden: A Qualitative Multi-Informant Study Linking to ICF
Authors: Fridell Anna , Norrman Hjalmar Nobel , Girke Linda , Bölte Sven
Published: January 2022

While the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, early outcome studies indicate severe and pervasive global effects of the pandemic and associated measures to prevent the spread of the virus. General population studies, as well as insight into the outcomes for particular groups, will be necessary in order to mitigate potentially long-term effects as well as to prepare for future epidemics or pandemics. The pandemic conditions have been marked by rapid and abrupt changes and unpredictability which are circumstances that leave the autistic population particularly vulnerable to adverse outcomes following the distinctive features of the diagnosis. Studies are only beginning to delineate the outcomes of the global autism community and the present study adds to these findings by providing a local, multi-perspective, qualitative analysis of the lived experiences of the Swedish autism community. In this study, autistic youth and adults, caregivers of autistic individuals, as well as representatives of Swedish interest organizations were interviewed. Thematic analysis was performed on the population as a whole and patterns of results were formalized according to the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF-CY). Participants report wide-ranging adverse outcomes of the pandemic relating to mental health and access to support, participation in daily activities and socialization, education, and work as well as parental resources. However, participants also report positive outcomes relating to a reduction in specific social and everyday demands, and normalization of lived experiences. Additionally, interviews outlined some strategies used to cope during pandemic conditions. Implications of these findings are discussed.
The Importance of Physical Activity to Augment Mood during COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Fennell Curtis , Eremus Thomas , Puyana Moisés Grimaldi , Sañudo Borja
Published: January 2022

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of COVID-19 lockdown on mood and objective physical activity. A sample of 78 college students in Spain completed an assessment of mood using the valid Profile of Mood State (POMS) questionnaire and had their physical activity tracked objectively using a validated wrist-worn accelerometer (Xiaomi Mi Band 2) for one week before being under COVID-19 lockdown (T1) and for one week during COVID-19 lockdown (T2). Paired samples t-tests revealed significantly greater (p = 0.027) POMS Total Mood Disturbance (TMD) Score T2 (mean ± SD) (22.6 ± 28.0) compared to T1 (17.7 ± 22.6) (lower score represents better mood) and significantly lower (p ≤ 0.001) POMS Vigor Score T2 (14.1 ± 5.0) compared to T1 (18.2 ± 4.5) (lower vigor score represents lower mental and physical energy levels). Additionally, Total Objective Steps was significantly less (p ≤ 0.001) lT2 (15,841.9 ± 17,253.2 steps) compared to T1 (64,607.0 ± 50,525.2 steps). Regression analyses demonstrated significant negative relationships of Total Objective Steps and POMS Depression (p = 0.014, Beta = −0.277, t = −2.511), POMS Anger (p = 0.040, Beta = −0.233, t = −2.091), and POMS TMD (p = 0.007, Beta = −0.302, t = −2.754) T2. The regressions also revealed a significant positive relationship (p = 0.012, Beta = 0.283, t = 2.57) of Total Objective Steps and POMS Vigor T2. These data suggest that being in a lockdown due to a pandemic may have negative physical and mental health-related consequences and that engaging in physical activity may reduce these deleterious mental health-related consequences during lockdowns and quarantines.
Exploring the Effects of Roadside Vegetation on the Urban Thermal Environment Using Street View Images
Authors: Li Bin , Xing Hanfa , Cao Duanguang , Yang Guang , Zhang Huanxue
Published: January 2022

Roadsides are important urban public spaces where residents are in direct contact with the thermal environment. Understanding the effects of different vegetation types on the roadside thermal environment has been an important aspect of recent urban research. Although previous studies have shown that the thermal environment is related to the type and configuration of vegetation, remote sensing-based technology is not applicable for extracting different vegetation types at the roadside scale. The rapid development and usage of street view data provide a way to solve this problem, as street view data have a unique pedestrian perspective. In this study, we explored the effects of different roadside vegetation types on land surface temperatures (LSTs) using street view images. First, the grasses–shrubs–trees (GST) ratios were extracted from 19,596 street view images using semantic segmentation technology, while LST and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values were extracted from Landsat-8 images using the radiation transfer equation algorithm. Second, the effects of different vegetation types on roadside LSTs were explored based on geographically weighted regression (GWR), and the different performances of the analyses using remotely sensed images and street view images were discussed. The results indicate that GST vegetation has different cooling effects in different spaces, with a fitting value of 0.835 determined using GWR. Among these spaces, the areas with a significant cooling effect provided by grass are mainly located in the core commercial area of Futian District, which is densely populated by people and vehicles; the areas with a significant cooling effect provided by shrubs are mainly located in the industrial park in the south, which has the highest industrial heat emissions; the areas with a significant cooling effect provided by trees are mainly located in the core area of Futian, which is densely populated by roads and buildings. These are also the areas with the most severe heat island effect in Futian. This study expands our understanding of the relationship between roadside vegetation and the urban thermal environment, and has scientific significance for the planning and guiding of urban thermal environment regulation.
Epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Italy Using Real-World Data: Methodology and Cohort Description of the Second Phase of Web-Based EPICOVID19 Study
Authors: Adorni Fulvio , Jesuthasan Nithiya , Perdixi Elena , Sojic Aleksandra , Giacomelli Andrea , Noale Marianna , Trevisan Caterina , Franchini Michela , Pieroni Stefania , Cori Liliana , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , Bianchi Fabrizio , Antonelli-Incalzi Raffaele , Maggi Stefania , Galli Massimo , Prinelli Federica ,   on behalf of the EPICOVID19 Working Group
Published: January 2022

Digital technologies have been extensively employed in response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic worldwide. This study describes the methodology of the two-phase internet-based EPICOVID19 survey, and the characteristics of the adult volunteer respondents who lived in Italy during the first (April–May 2020) and the second wave (January–February 2021) of the epidemic. Validated scales and ad hoc questionnaires were used to collect socio-demographic, medical and behavioural characteristics, as well as information on COVID-19. Among those who provided email addresses during phase I (105,355), 41,473 participated in phase II (mean age 50.7 years ± 13.5 SD, 60.6% females). After a median follow-up of ten months, 52.8% had undergone nasopharyngeal swab (NPS) testing and 13.2% had a positive result. More than 40% had undergone serological test (ST) and 11.9% were positive. Out of the 2073 participants with at least one positive ST, 72.8% had only negative results from NPS or never performed it. These results indicate that a large fraction of individuals remained undiagnosed, possibly contributing to the spread of the virus in the community. Participatory online surveys offer a unique opportunity to collect relevant data at individual level from large samples during confinement.
Estimation of Fine-Grained Foot Strike Patterns with Wearable Smartwatch Devices
Authors: Joo Hyeyeoun , Kim Hyejoo , Ryu Jeh-Kwang , Ryu Semin , Lee Kyoung-Min , Kim Seung-Chan
Published: January 2022

People who exercise may benefit or be injured depending on their foot striking (FS) style. In this study, we propose an intelligent system that can recognize subtle differences in FS patterns while walking and running using measurements from a wearable smartwatch device. Although such patterns could be directly measured utilizing pressure distribution of feet while striking on the ground, we instead focused on analyzing hand movements by assuming that striking patterns consequently affect temporal movements of the whole body. The advantage of the proposed approach is that FS patterns can be estimated in a portable and less invasive manner. To this end, first, we developed a wearable system for measuring inertial movements of hands and then conducted an experiment where participants were asked to walk and run while wearing a smartwatch. Second, we trained and tested the captured multivariate time series signals in supervised learning settings. The experimental results obtained demonstrated high and robust classification performances (weighted-average F1 score > 90%) when recent deep neural network models, such as 1D-CNN and GRUs, were employed. We conclude this study with a discussion of potential future work and applications that increase benefits while walking and running properly using the proposed approach.
The Understanding and Experiences of Living with Dementia in Chinese New Zealanders
Authors: Cheung Gary , Su April Yuehan , Wu Karen , Yue Blake , Yates Susan , Martinez Ruiz Adrian , Krishnamurthi Rita , Cullum Sarah
Published: January 2022

Little is known about the lived experience of dementia in the New Zealand Chinese community. This study aims to explore the understanding and experiences of living with dementia in Chinese New Zealanders. Participants were recruited from a memory service and a community dementia day programme. In-depth interviews were conducted by bilingual and bicultural researchers. The recorded interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed. Sixteen people living with dementia and family carers participated in this study. The first theme revealed the lack of understanding of dementia prior to diagnosis, the commonly used term of “brain shrinkage” and that dementia is associated with getting older. The second theme covered the symptoms experienced by people with dementia and how family carers found anhedonia and apathy particularly concerning. The third theme highlighted the tension between cultural obligation and carer stress. The fourth theme is about the stigma attached to dementia. Our results provide some insight into ways to improve dementia care for Chinese New Zealanders, including targeted psychoeducation in the Chinese community to improve awareness and to reduce stigma, access to person-centred interventions, and learning about strategies for healthy ageing to live well with dementia, and emotional support and psychoeducation for family carers to reduce carer stress.
Impact of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation on Work Engagement: A Cross-Sectional Study of Nurses Working in Long-Term Care Facilities
Authors: Zeng Derong , Takada Nozomu , Hara Yukari , Sugiyama Shoko , Ito Yoshimi , Nihei Yoko , Asakura Kyoko
Published: January 2022

Nurses’ work motivation impacts their job satisfaction and work engagement, affecting their quality of care. Work motivation, a personal resource, can be categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, each of which may function differently in the job demands–resources (JD–R) model. To study the effect of nurses’ intrinsic and extrinsic work motivation on work engagement in long-term care (LTC) facilities, we randomly selected 1200 facilities from 6055 LTC facilities in eastern Japan. Two nurses from each facility completed a self-report questionnaire—newly developed for this study for evaluating intrinsic and extrinsic work motivation—to assess their work engagement, job satisfaction, and work motivation. Multiple regression analysis of 561 valid questionnaires investigated the relationship between work motivation and work engagement, indicating that intrinsic work motivation, job satisfaction, and age had a significant positive effect on work engagement, while extrinsic work motivation had no significant effect. However, half the nurses chose to work because of extrinsic work motivation, explaining the high turnover rate of nursing staff in LTC facilities. Findings indicate the importance of measures to foster nurses’ intrinsic motivation to improve work engagement. Further research should investigate how to improve the intrinsic motivation of nurses working in LTC facilities.
Effects of Exercise Programs on Physical Factors and Safety in Adult Patients with Cancer and Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Morales-Rodriguez Erica , Pérez-Bilbao Txomin , San Juan Alejandro F. , Calvo Jorge Lorenzo
Published: January 2022

This study looks at the effects of exercise programs on physical factors and safety in adult patients with cancer and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or bone marrow transplantation (BMT). A systematic search was performed in the PubMed and Web of Science databases (from inception to 26 August 2021). A review was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale, based, in turn, on the Delphi list. A total of 25 randomized controlled trials studies were included, comprising 1434 patients. The most significant result of this systematic review is that exercise program interventions are safe and produce positive changes in cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, and the functional mobility-state in adult patients with cancer and HSCT or BMT. Only 3 patients from the 711 participants in the exercise interventions (i.e., 0.42%) reported adverse events related to exercise interventions. Moreover, exercise training programs may have a cardiological and muscular protective effect, as well as a healthy effect on the prevention and control of transplant complications, improving health outcomes.
Public R&D Projects-Based Investment and Collaboration Framework for an Overarching South Korean National Strategy of Personalized Medicine
Authors: Lee Doyeon , Kim Keunhwan
Published: January 2022

Since the South Korean government designated personalized medicine (PM) as a national strategic task in 2016, it has spared no investment to achieve its goals, which were recently accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study analyzed investment trends in 17 regions and eight technology clusters related to PM, consisting of 5727 public R&D projects worth USD 148.5 million, from 2015 to 2020. We also illustrated the level of investment for different PM-related technology clusters in each region; various research organizations explicitly verified comparable innovation capabilities for all eight technology fields in 17 regions, showing individual differences in technology areas per region. Our framework provided information to allow implementation of two goals: administering successful PM and improving regional equality in public health and healthcare according to technical and organizational levels. This study empirically demonstrates that it can provide a precise overarching innovation scheme with regional, technical, and organizational dimensions to establish collaboration among different stakeholders, thereby creating a foundation for an overarching national PM strategy.
Tourists’ Safety Perception Clues in the Urban Forest Environment: Visual Quality, Facility Completeness, Accessibility—A Case Study of Urban Forests in Fuzhou, China
Authors: Wang Hongda , Ye Jing , Tarin Muhammad Waqqas Khan , Liu Yueyan , Zheng Yushan
Published: January 2022

The service quality and safety perception of urban forests are important factors that influence tourists to choose them as recreation destinations. This study aims to propose a theoretical model of multivariate relationships to explore the relationship between service quality (including visual quality, facility completeness, and accessibility) and safety perception to examine whether visual quality, facility completeness, and accessibility on tourists’ safety perception in the urban forest and to explain the specific reasons for the impact. We collected sample data from many urban forest green spaces in Fuzhou through a two-stage field survey (N = 891), and controlling for potential confounders, a structural equation model was used to estimate relationships. Safety perception was divided into safety environment perception, control perception, and safety emotion. Visual quality of an urban forest positively affected safety emotion. Traffic accessibility positively affected control perception. Facility completeness had a positive impact on safety emotion and control perception. Both safety emotion and control perception played an important intermediary role in improving the perception of a safe environment in the multivariate model. Visual quality, facility completeness, and accessibility all had a positive impact on tourists’ safety perception of urban forests. The findings suggest that improving the service quality of a green space can effectively improve tourists’ evaluation of the safety of the urban forest environment. Specifically, tourists’ psychological tolerance to threats and their self-confidence in survival can be enhanced by improving the service quality of a green space.
Influence of Social Determinants of Health on COVID-19 Infection in Socially Vulnerable Groups
Authors: Morante-García Wladimir , Zapata-Boluda Rosa María , García-González Jessica , Campuzano-Cuadrado Pedro , Calvillo Cristobal , Alarcón-Rodríguez Raquel
Published: January 2022

The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a significant impact on the economy and health, especially for the most vulnerable social groups. The social determinants of health are one of the most relevant risks for becoming infected with COVID-19, due to the health consequences for those who are exposed to it. The objective of this study was to analyze the influence of social determinants in health on COVID-19 infection in vulnerable social groups. A transversal epidemiological study was carried out on 746 individuals in vulnerable situations living in conditions of extreme poverty in disadvantaged areas in the province of Almeria (southeast of Spain). Social determinants of health such access to drinking water (p < 0.001) and economic income (p = 0.04) influenced the infection of COVID-19. A binary logistic regression model showed that the significant predictors of COVID-19 infection were the lack of economic income and inaccessible drinking water. The government and social health services must be aware of this problem in order to play an active role in searching for solutions and implementing public health prevention measures to eliminate social inequalities in health.