bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Energy Models in Local Heating Transition Decision Making: Insights from Ten Municipalities in The Netherlands
Authors: Henrich Birgit A. , Hoppe Thomas , Diran Devin , Lukszo Zofia
Published: January 2021

In 2018, the Dutch national government announced its decision to end natural gas extraction. This decision posed a challenge for local governments (municipalities); they have to organise a heat supply that is natural gas-free. Energy models can decrease the complexity of this challenge, but some challenges hinder their effective use in decision-making. The main research question of this paper is: What are the perceived advantages and limitations of energy models used by municipalities within their data-driven decision-making process concerning the natural-gas free heating transition? To answer this question, literature on energy models, data-driven policy design and modelling practices were reviewed, and based on this, nine propositions were formulated. The propositions were tested by reflecting on data from case studies of ten municipalities, including 21 experts interviews. Results show that all municipalities investigated, use or are planning to use modelling studies to develop planning documents of their own, and that more than half of the municipalities use modelling studies at some point in their local heating projects. Perceived advantages of using energy models were that the modelling process provides perspective for action, financial and socio-economic insights, transparency and legitimacy and means to start useful discussions. Perceived limitations include that models and modelling results were considered too abstract for analysis of local circumstances, not user-friendly and highly complex. All municipalities using modelling studies were found to hire external expertise, indicating that the knowledge and skill level that municipal officials have is insufficient to model independently.
Techno-Economic Efficiency Analysis of Various Operating Strategies for Micro-Hydro Storage Using a Pump as a Turbine
Authors: Lugauer Florian Julian , Kainz Josef , Gaderer Matthias
Published: January 2021

Storage technologies are an increasingly crucial element in the continued expansion of renewable energy production. Micro-hydro storage using a pump as a turbine is a potentially promising solution in certain cases, for example, for extending existing photovoltaic systems (PV) and thus reducing grid load and enabling economically beneficial self-consumption of the energy produced. This paper gives an overview of various operating strategies and their technical and economic efficiencies. The evaluation was based on a simulation model of a system that uses measured characteristic maps of both the pump and turbine operations. An optimizer was employed to vary the essential system parameters, which made it possible to determine the optimal economical operation of the pump as a turbine in combination with a PV system. This in turn enabled us to determine the conditions under which the system can be operated most profitably. It was then possible to make precise calculations of the stored energy quantities, total efficiency (ηtot = 42% with speed control), and many other values critical to each operating strategy. Based on the technical findings, the economic analysis resulted in a levelized cost of energy of 0.63 €/kWh for the micro-hydro storage when using speed control.
Modeling and Analysis of Polarized Couplers under Misalignment for Electric Vehicle Wireless Charging Systems
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Song Jiancheng , Liu Zongwei , Lyu Shixuan , Ren Hui , Zhang Ye , Song Yuan
Published: January 2021

Wireless power transfer (WPT) is becoming popular increasingly in stationary electric vehicle (EV) charging. Various coil structures were proposed to improve the coupling characteristics, and polarized couplers have been proven to have better performance. Considering the varying spatial scales of transmitting and receiving, coils will alter the mutual inductance, further affecting the output power and transmission efficiency; therefore, it is crucial to calculate the mutual inductance of polarized couplers with variable offset for WPT system design. However, given the complex structure and the various excitation conditions of polarized couplers, the solving process based on the finite element model is time-consuming and resource intensive, therefore it is necessary to develop analytical models of mutual inductance for polarized couplers under misalignment. In this paper, the analytical models of the two commonly used polarized couplers with a Double-D polarized coil (DDP) or a Bipolar polarized coil (BP) on both sides under misalignment along any direction under different excitation conditions are proposed based on dual Fourier transformation. The mutual inductance characteristics of the two polarized couplers under misalignment can be investigated based on the proposed analytical models and finite element models, respectively. The results show that the mutual inductance of BP-BP coupler with in-phase current excitation mode is greater and more stable, and the method based on the analytical model is timesaving. Finally, the prototype of the WPT system with the two polarized couplers has been built, and experiments have also been carried out to verify the accuracy of the analytical models.
Water Quality Monitoring with Arduino Based Sensors
Authors: Hong Wong , Shamsuddin Norazanita , Abas Emeroylariffion , Apong Rosyzie , Masri Zarifi , Suhaimi Hazwani , Gödeke Stefan , Noh Muhammad
Published: January 2021

Water is a quintessential element for the survival of mankind. Its variety of uses means that it is always in a constant state of demand. The supply of water most primarily comes from large reservoirs of water such as lakes, streams, and the ocean itself. As such, it is good practice to monitor its quality to ensure it is fit for human consumption. Current water quality monitoring is often carried out in traditional labs but is time consuming and prone to inaccuracies. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the feasibility of implementing an Arduino-based sensor system for water quality monitoring. A simple prototype consisting of a microcontroller and multiple attached sensors was employed to conduct weekly onsite tests at multiple daily intervals. It was found that the system works reliably but is reliant on human assistance and prone to data inaccuracies. The system however, provides a solid foundation for future expansion works of the same category to elevate the system to being Internet of Things (IoT) friendly.
E-Mail Network Patterns and Body Language Predict Risk-Taking Attitude
Authors: Sun Jiachen , Gloor Peter
Published: January 2021

As the Enron scandal and Bernie Madoff’s pyramid scheme have shown, individuals’ attitude towards ethical risks can have a huge impact on society at large. In this paper, we compare risk-taking attitudes assessed with the Domain-Specific Risk-Taking (DOSPERT) survey with individual e-mail networking patterns and body language measured with smartwatches. We find that e-mail communication signals such as network structure and dynamics, and content features as well as real-world behavioral signals measured through a smartwatch such as heart rate, acceleration, and mood state demonstrate a strong correlation with the individuals’ risk-preference in the different domains of the DOSPERT survey. For instance, we found that people with higher degree centrality in the e-mail network show higher likelihood to take social risks, while using language expressing a “you live only once” attitude indicates lower willingness to take risks in some domains. Our results show that analyzing the human interaction in organizational networks provides valuable information for decision makers and managers to support an increase in ethical behavior of the organization’s members.
Metagenome Analysis of a Hydrocarbon-Degrading Bacterial Consortium Reveals the Specific Roles of BTEX Biodegraders
Authors: Eze Michael O.
Published: January 2021

Environmental contamination by petroleum hydrocarbons is of concern due to the carcinogenicity and neurotoxicity of these compounds. Successful bioremediation of organic contaminants requires bacterial populations with degradative capacity for these contaminants. Through successive enrichment of microorganisms from a petroleum-contaminated soil using diesel fuel as the sole carbon and energy source, we successfully isolated a bacterial consortium that can degrade diesel fuel hydrocarbons. Metagenome analysis revealed the specific roles of different microbial populations involved in the degradation of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene (BTEX), and the metabolic pathways involved in these reactions. One hundred and five putative coding DNA sequences were identified as responsible for both the activation of BTEX and central metabolism (ring-cleavage) of catechol and alkylcatechols during BTEX degradation. The majority of the Coding DNA sequences (CDSs) were affiliated to Acidocella, which was also the dominant bacterial genus in the consortium. The inoculation of diesel fuel contaminated soils with the consortium resulted in approximately 70% hydrocarbon biodegradation, indicating the potential of the consortium for environmental remediation of petroleum hydrocarbons.
Idiopathic CD4 T Cell Lymphocytopenia: A Case of Overexpression of PD-1/PDL-1 and CTLA-4
Authors: Kumar Gaurav , Schmid-Antomarchi Heidy , Schmid-Alliana Annie , Ticchioni Michel , Roger Pierre-Marie
Published: January 2021

Idiopathic CD4 T cell lymphocytopenia (ICL) is a rare entity characterized by CD4 T cell count of <300 cells/mm3 along with opportunistic infection for which T cell marker expression remains to be fully explored. We report an ICL case for which T lymphocyte phenotype and its costimulatory molecules expression was analyzed both ex vivo and after overnight stimulation through CD3/CD28. The ICL patient was compared to five healthy controls. We observed higher expression of inhibitory molecules PD-1/PDL-1 and CTLA-4 on CD4 T cells and increased regulatory T cells in ICL, along with high activation and low proliferation of CD4 T cells. The alteration in the expression of both the costimulatory pathway and the apoptotic pathway might participate to down-regulate both CD4 T cell functions and numbers observed in ICL.
Spatial Characteristics of the Diffusion of Residential Solar Photovoltaics in Urban Areas: A Case of Seoul, South Korea
Authors: Kim Moon-Hyun , Gim Tae-Hyoung Tommy
Published: January 2021

Mini-solar photovoltaics, which are installed on apartment balconies, are rapidly spreading in Seoul, South Korea. Seoul has implemented a policy to diffuse mini-solar photovoltaics in apartments for energy transition since 2012. The policy considers compact land use and a large population of the city. This study examines a variety of variables in relation to the adoption of mini-solar photovoltaics. In particular, we focus on peer effects, namely, those of spatially adjacent, previously installed mini-solar photovoltaics. As apartment characteristics, four variables are selected to assess both within and between apartment complexes: one for the density of adopters as a within-complex variable and three for the number of adopters in the 500 m, 1 km, and 1.5 km radius of apartment complexes as between-complex variables. A major finding is that peer effects significantly contribute to the new adoption of mini-solar photovoltaics. Implications of this finding are discussed in an urban context.
Influence of Removing or Leaving the Prosthesis after Regenerative Surgery in Peri-Implant Defects: Retrospective Study: 32 Clinical Cases with 2 to 8 Years of Follow-Up
Authors: Astolfi Víctor , Gómez-Menchero Alberto , Ríos-Santos José Vicente , Bullón Pedro , Galeote Francisco , Ríos-Carrasco Blanca , Bullón de la Fuente Beatriz , Herrero-Climent Mariano
Published: January 2021

Purpose: The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the influence of removing or not removing a prosthesis after regenerative surgery on peri-implant defects. Methods: Two different groups were compared (Group 1: removing the prosthesis; Group 2: maintaining the prosthesis), analyzing radiographic bone filling (n = 32 implants) after regenerative treatment in periapical radiographs. The peri-implant defects were measured before and after regenerative treatment using Bio-Oss® (Geistlich Pharma, Wohhusen, Switzerland) and a reabsorbable collagen membrane (Jason®, Botis, Berlin, Germany), the healing period was two years after peri-implant regenerative surgery. Statistical analysis was performed, and a Chi square test was carried out. To determine the groups that made the difference, corrected standardized Haberman residuals were used, and previously a normality test had been applied; therefore, an ANOVA or Mann–Whitney U test was used for the crossover with the non-normal variables in Group 1 and Group 2. Results: The results obtained suggest that a regenerative procedure with xenograft, resorbable membrane, and detoxifying the implant surface with hydrogen peroxide form a reliable technique to achieve medium-term results, obtaining an average bone gain at a radiographic level of 2.84 mm (±1.78 mm) in patients whose prosthesis was not removed after peri-implant bone regenerative therapy and 2.18 mm (±1.41 mm) in patients whose prosthesis was removed during the healing period. Conclusions: There are no statistically significant differences in the response to treatment when removing or keeping the prosthesis after regenerative surgery in peri-implant defects.
Comparison of Interventional Strategies to Improve Recovery after Eccentric Exercise-Induced Muscle Fatigue
Authors: García-Sillero Manuel , Benítez-Porres Javier , García-Romero Jerónimo , Bonilla Diego A. , Petro Jorge L. , Vargas-Molina Salvador
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of various recovery techniques on muscle tissue after eccentric exercise-induced muscle fatigue (EIMF). Forty subjects (24.3 ± 2.6 years; 77.45 ± 8.3 kg; 177.0 ± 6.4 cm; 24.66 ± 1.6 kg∙m−2) were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: manual therapy (n =10, MT), mechanical vibration (n = 10, MV), percussion therapy (n = 10, PT) or foam roller (n = 10, FR). The contraction time (Tc) and the radial displacement (Dm) of the gastrocnemius was evaluated through tensiomyography (TMG). The application of the different techniques had positive effects for Tc and Dm in the treated leg compared to the untreated leg (F = 50.01, p < 0.01, η2p = 0.58 and F = 27.58, p < 0.01, η2p = 0.43, respectively) and for the interaction of the factors (Time x Leg x Therapy: F = 5.76, p < 0.01, η2p = 0.32 and F = 5.93, p < 0.01, η2p = 0.33, respectively). The results of the various methods used were similar: Tc (F = 0.17, p = 0.917; η2p = 0.01) and Dm (F = 3.30, p = 0.031, η2p = 0.22). PT interventions show potential for restoring muscle compliance and reducing stiffness, similar to MT and possibly more effective (cost-time relationship) compared to MV or FR.
Effects of Motor Imagery Training on Balance and Gait in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Oh Dong Sik , Choi Jong Duk
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the effects of motor imagery training on balance and gait abilities in older adults and to investigate the possible application of the training as an effective intervention against fall prevention. Subjects (n = 34) aged 65 years and over who had experienced falls were randomly allocated to three groups: (1) motor imagery training group (MITG, n = 11), (2) task-oriented training group (TOTG, n = 11), and (3) control group (CG, n = 12). Each group performed an exercise three times a week for 6 weeks. The dependent variables included Path Length of center of pressure (COP)-based static balance, Berg Balance Scale (BBS) score, Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) score, which assesses a person’s mobility based on changes in both static and dynamic balance, Falls Efficacy Scale (FES) score, which evaluates changes in fear of falls, and gait parameters (velocity, cadence, step length, stride length, and H-H base support) to evaluate gait. After the intervention, Path Length, BBS, TUG, velocity, cadence, step length, and stride length showed significant increases in MITG and TOTG compared to CG (p < 0.05). Post hoc test results showed a significantly greater increase in BBS, TUG, and FES in MITG compared with TOTG and CG (p < 0.05). Our results suggest that motor imagery training combined with functional training has positive effects on balance, gait, and fall efficacy for fall prevention in the elderly.
Contributing Factors Affecting the Severity of Metro Escalator Injuries in the Guangzhou Metro, China
Authors: Li Hongwei , Wang Yuxi , Xing Yingying , Zhao Xiaochen , Wang Ke
Published: January 2021

Urban rail transit has become one of the indispensable modes of public transportation in large cities. Escalators are ubiquitous in metro stations, as passengers typically use escalators when entering or leaving a metro station. Thus, escalators have become an accident-prone location. To develop suitable prevention strategies, it is necessary to understand the risk factors that affect the severity of escalator accidents. This study analyzed 967 escalator passenger accidents that occurred in the Guangzhou Metro from 2013 to 2015. The Haddon matrix was used to evaluate the interaction of humans, escalators, and environmental factors before, during, and after accidents. Then, the contributing factors associated with the severity levels were determined based on chi-square tests. Passengers aged 66 years and older are more vulnerable to serious injuries (p < 0.001), and previous health conditions are significantly related to the severity of the passenger’s injuries (p = 0.002). The weather conditions (rainy days) are also significantly related to the severity of escalator accident injuries (p = 0.039), and injured people with head injuries are at greater risk of being severely injured (p < 0.001). The analysis results of these risk factors can provide theoretical support for the metro operators to develop reasonable and effective preventive measures to reduce the escalator risk.
Insights into the Slow Uptake of Residential Lead Paint Remediation Funds: A Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Case Study
Authors: Cherney Margaret , Erdman Sarabeth , Kuon Madeline , Shupin Nicholas , Regis Najeda , Fitzelle-Jones Emma , Givler Kylie , Baldrige Susan , Okatch Harriet
Published: January 2021

Lead poisoning is a preventable condition that continues to affect thousands of children each year. Given that local governments and municipalities are eligible to apply for federal funds to perform lead remediation in low-income family homes, we sought to understand how lead poisoning knowledge levels may affect the uptake of these funds. We recruited and conducted 28 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with community members from Lancaster County in the state of Pennsylvania in the USA. We audio-recorded and transcribed each interview, and analyzed each transcript for salient themes. The interviewed participants displayed a varying degree of knowledge about lead and lead poisoning. Most of the participants were unaware of the lead paint remediation funds. Participants learned about lead from various sources, such as social media, and personal experiences with lead poisoning appeared to enhance knowledge. Some participants assumed lead poisoning prevention would be addressed by other stakeholders if necessary, including healthcare professionals and landlords. The results of this study suggest that in order to increase the timely uptake of the remediation funds, community-based organizations should design interventions that aim to increase awareness and knowledge about lead poisoning and lead poisoning prevention. These interventions should be tailored for different audiences including community members, healthcare professionals, and landlords.
Effects of Exercise on the Skin Epithelial Barrier of Young Elite Athletes-Swimming Comparatively to Non-Water Sports Training Session
Authors: Paciência Inês , Rodolfo Ana , Leão Leonor , Silva Diana , Cavaleiro Rufo João , Mendes Francisca , Padrão Patrícia , Moreira Pedro , Laerte Boechat Jose , Delgado Luís , Moreira André
Published: January 2021

The benefits of swimming have been extensively assessed. However, swimming pools contain chlorine and other irritating chemicals that may induce contact dermatitis. To evaluate the effect of a swimming training session on transepidermal water loss (TWEL) in swimmers compared to football players, elite swimmers and football players were invited to participate (58 athletes) in the study, where TEWL was measured before, immediately after, and 30 min after a 2 h training session. The probe was held on the dorsum of the hand, volar forearm, and on the antecubital flexure for 1 min. The volar forearm, antecubital flexure, and hand dorsum showed a significant increase in TEWL in swimmers in both measurements after training compared to baseline (p < 0.001). In football players, an increase in TEWL was observed on the hands’ dorsum between baseline and after training measurements. The variations on TEWL levels before and immediately after the training session were higher among swimmers on the volar forearm (p = 0.002) and antecubital flexure (p = 0.019). Our findings support the effect of the training environment—swimming pool versus outdoor sports—on the skin barrier function, with an increase of transepidermal water loss immediately after exercise. Exposure to a swimming pool environment in a 2 h training session may lead to changes in skin barrier function.
Effect of Adherence to Physical Exercise on Cardiometabolic Profile in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Bucciarelli Valentina , Bianco Francesco , Mucedola Francesco , Di Blasio Andrea , Izzicupo Pascal , Tuosto Desiree , Ghinassi Barbara , Bucci Ines , Napolitano Giorgio , Di Baldassarre Angela , Gallina Sabina
Published: January 2021

Background: Menopause is associated with negative cardiovascular adaptations related to estrogen depletion, which could be counteracted by physical exercise (PhE). However, the impact of total adherence-rate (TA) to PhE and sedentary time (SedT) on cardiometabolic profile in this population has not been elucidated. Methods: For 13-weeks, 43 women (57.1 ± 4.7 years) participated in a 4-days-a-week moderate-intensity walking training. They underwent laboratory, anthropometric and echocardiographic assessment, before and after training (T0–T1). Spontaneous physical activity (PhA) was assessed with a portable multisensory device. The sample was divided according to TA to PhE program: <70% (n = 17) and ≥70% (n = 26). Results: TA ≥ 70% group experienced a significant T1 improvement of relative wall thickness (RWT), diastolic function, VO2max, cortisol, cortisol/dehydroandrostenedione-sulphate ratio and serum glucose. After adjusting for SedT and 10-min bouts of spontaneous moderate-to-vigorous PhA, TA ≥ 70% showed the most significant absolute change of RWT and diastolic function, body mass index, weight and cortisol. TA ≥ 70% was major predictor of RWT and cortisol improvement. Conclusions: In a group of untrained, postmenopausal women, a high TA to a 13-weeks aerobic PhE program confers a better improvement in cardiometabolic profile, regardless of SedT and PhA levels.
A Multilingual Integrative Review of Health Literacy in Former Soviet Union, Russian-Speaking Immigrants
Authors: Kostareva Uliana , Albright Cheryl L. , Berens Eva-Maria , Polansky Patricia , Kadish Deborah E. , Ivanov Luba L. , Sentell Tetine L.
Published: January 2021

Large diasporas of former Soviet Union (FSU) immigrants are found in the USA, Germany, and Israel. To synthesize evidence, identify limitations, and propose future directions we conducted an integrative review on the health literacy of FSU immigrants, migrants, or refugees in four languages. Following integrative review and PRISMA guidelines, we searched four databases in English and performed supplementary searches in Russian, German, and Hebrew to identify qualitative and quantitative studies on FSU immigrants and health literacy. Six articles met inclusion criteria in English and one in German; the majority were published in the last five years. Only two articles measured health literacy of FSU immigrants, which was lower than the general population. Four articles were about immigrants with a mean age ≥50 years. All articles stressed the value of translated, culturally relevant health information. The health literacy of FSU immigrants is understudied, despite clear needs. Future research should include assessments of FSU immigrants’ health literacy and include diverse (e.g., age, gender) yet well-defined populations to determine both barriers and facilitators to their health literacy. This review, an example of a multilingual search, provided a comprehensive understanding of existing literature and is a useful approach for global health literacy research.
Active Parents–Active Children—A Study among Families with Children and Adolescents with Down Syndrome
Authors: Sollerhed Ann-Christin , Hedov Gerth
Published: January 2021

From a public health perspective, it is important that children with Down syndrome (DS) lay the foundations of physical activity (PA) early in life to keep active in school, as teenagers and as adults. The aims were to investigate PA patterns in children and adolescents with DS, as well as their parents’ and siblings’ PA patterns. Methods: A survey was performed among 310 families with children with DS (54% boys and 46% girls) aged 8–18 years (mean 14.04, SD 3.18) in Sweden. Chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression were carried out. Results: Nineteen percent of children and adolescents with DS and 34% of the parents were active three or more times per week. The child’s PA level was significantly associated with parents’ PA (OR = 5.5), siblings’ PA (OR = 5.1) and the child’s locomotion ability (OR = 3.5). Physically active parents had active children to a greater extent than inactive parents (59% vs. 29%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Physically active parents have active children. To promote PA among children and adolescents with DS, it is important to promote and pay attention to the parents’ and siblings’ PA behavior, as children with DS are dependent on support from the family.
Job Insecurity in Nursing: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Prado-Gascó Vicente , Giménez-Espert María del Carmen , De Witte Hans
Published: January 2021

Nurses are a key workforce in the international health system, and as such maintaining optimal working conditions is critical for preserving their well-being and good performance. One of the psychosocial risks that can have a major impact on them is job insecurity. This study aimed to carry out a bibliometric analysis, mapping job insecurity in 128 articles in nursing, and to determine the most important findings in the literature. The search was conducted in the Web of Science Core Collection database using the Science Citation Index (SCI)-Expanded and Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI) indexes on 6 March 2020. This field of discipline has recently been established and has experienced significant growth since 2013. The most productive and widely cited authors are Denton and Zeytinoglu. The most productive universities are Toronto University, McMaster University, and Monash University. The most productive countries are the United States, Canada, Australia, Finland, and the United Kingdom. The most widely used measure was Karasek’s Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ). The main findings report negative correlations with job satisfaction, mental well-being, and physical health. Job insecurity is a recent and little-discussed topic, and this paper provides an overview of the field. This will enable policies to reduce psychosocial risks among nurses to be implemented.
Clinical Manifestations and Changes of Haematological Markers among Active People Living in Polluted City: The Case of Douala, Cameroon
Authors: Eloge Tiekwe Joseph , Nadine Ongbayokolak , Solange Dabou , Telefo Phélix Bruno , Annesi-Maesano Isabella
Published: January 2021

Urban air pollution, despite its dangerous health impact, is poorly studied in sub-Saharan Africa (sSA). Epidemiological data on this silent killer are almost non-existent for cities of Cameroon, which seems to be one of the sSA countries where populations are highly exposed to air pollutants. Objective: The present study was conducted in Douala city, and aimed at determining the association of urban air quality degradation with respiratory and systemic health in active populations exposed to air pollutants on a daily basis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2017 to 2019 in 1182 active people consisting of motorbikes drivers (MD), outdoor urban workers (UW), and fuel station sellers (FSS). A standardized questionnaire was used to document participants’ data. One hundred and twenty-six (126) motorbike drivers were selected to evaluate the relationship between haematological (white blood cells, platelets) and inflammatory (C-reactive protein—CRP) biomarkers, and air pollution; compared with those of a sixty-five (65) motorbike drivers’ control group enrolled in Dschang, another town situated at about 216.3 km from Douala. Results: Among those recruited in urban Douala, some respiratory disorders such as running nostrils, colds, common fever, sore throats, dry cough, wheezing, chest pain, shortness of breath and systemic symptoms such as headaches, eye irritation, conjunctivitis, watery eyes and general tiredness were very common among MD, UW, and FSS. Regarding biological data, blood monocytes, lymphocytes and CRP were found to be significantly increased among selected MD in Douala, compared to control groups in Dschang. Conversely, a more significant decrease in blood neutrophil level was observed among MD in Douala than control groups in Dschang. These changes of haematological markers were significantly associated with place of residence, site of activity, and daily duration. Conclusion: Our results suggest the risk of suffering from respiratory impairments and systemic symptoms with exposure to urban air pollution among active people working near highways in Douala.
“Something Was Attacking Them and Their Reproductive Organs”: Environmental Reproductive Justice in an Indigenous Tribe in the United States Gulf Coast
Authors: Liddell Jessica L. , Kington Sarah G.
Published: January 2021

Environmental reproductive justice is increasingly being utilized as a framework for exploring how environmental exploitation and pollution contribute to reproductive health and reproductive injustices. However, little research explores how settler colonialism and historical oppression contribute to the physical transformation of land, and how this undermines tribal members’ health. Even less research explores the intersection of environmental justice and reproductive justice among Indigenous groups, especially in the Gulf South, who are especially vulnerable to environmental justice issues due to climate change, land loss, and oil company exploitation, and for tribes that are non-federally recognized. A qualitative description research methodology was used to conduct 31 life-history interviews with women from a Gulf Coast Indigenous tribe. Findings of this study reveal that central components of reproductive justice, including the ability to have children and the ability to raise children in safe and healthy environments, are undermined by environmental justice issues in the community. Among concerns raised by women were high rates of chronic healthcare issues among community members, and issues with infertility. Recognizing Indigenous sovereignty is central to addressing these environmental reproductive justice issues. This research is unique in exploring the topic of environmental reproductive justice among a state-recognized Gulf Coast tribe.
Current Status and Future Prospects for Shared Decision Making before and after Total Knee Replacement Surgery—A Scoping Review
Authors: van der Sluis Geert , Jager Jelmer , Punt Ilona , Goldbohm Alexandra , Meinders Marjan J. , Bimmel Richard , van Meeteren Nico L.U. , Nijhuis-van Der Sanden Maria W. G. , Hoogeboom Thomas J.
Published: January 2021

Background. To gain insight into the current state-of-the-art of shared decision making (SDM) during decisions related to pre and postoperative care process regarding primary total knee replacement (TKR). Methods. A scoping review was performed to synthesize existing scientific research regarding (1) decisional needs and preferences of patients preparing for, undergoing and recovering from TKR surgery, (2) the relation between TKR decision-support interventions and SDM elements (i.e., team talk, option talk, and decision talk), (3) the extent to which TKR decision-support interventions address patients’ decisional needs and preferences. Results. 2526 articles were identified, of which 17 articles met the inclusion criteria. Of the 17 articles, ten had a qualitative study design and seven had a quantitative study design. All included articles focused on the decision whether to undergo TKR surgery or not. Ten articles (all qualitative) examined patients’ decisional needs and preferences. From these, we identified four domains that affected the patients’ decision to undergo TKR: (1) personal factors, (2) external factors, (3) information sources and (4) preferences towards outcome prediction. Seven studies (5) randomized controlled trials and 2 cohort studies) used quantitative analyses to probe the effect of decision aids on SDM and/or clinical outcomes. In general, existing decision aids did not appear to be tailored to patient needs and preferences, nor were the principles of SDM well-articulated in the design of decision aids. Conclusions. SDM in TKR care is understudied; existing research appears to be narrow in scope with limited relevance to established SDM principles and the decisional needs of patients undertaking TKR surgery.
Implementing Service-Learning Programs in Physical Education; Teacher Education as Teaching and Learning Models for All the Agents Involved: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pérez-Ordás Raquel , Nuviala Alberto , Grao-Cruces Alberto , Fernández-Martínez Antonio
Published: January 2021

Service-learning (SL) is the subject of a growing number of studies and is becoming increasingly popular in physical education teacher education (PETE) programs. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the implementation of SL programs with PETE students. The databases used were Web of Science, SPORTDiscus (EBSCO), and SCOPUS. Articles were selected on the basis of the following criteria: (a) published in a peer-reviewed journal; (b) covers the use of SL programs with PETE students; (c) relates to physical education or physical activity programs; (d) availability of a full-text version in English and/or Spanish. Thirty-two articles met the inclusion criteria. Two types of findings were observed: firstly, findings relating to the study characteristics and objectives and, secondly, recommendations for improvement of this type of intervention. The objectives of the different studies focused on (a) the impact of the SL methodology on PETE students’ professional, social, and personal skills; (b) its impact on the community; (c) analysis of the effectiveness and quality of the programs. All but two studies analyzed the impact of SL on PETE, while only four analyzed community participants and only three analyzed the quality of the SL program. Recommendations for improving SL programs used with PETE students included: all stakeholders, e.g., students and community participants, should be studied and coordinated; the quality of the programs should be assessed, as studying the effectiveness of SL programs could help to attain the objectives of both students and the community; mixed methods should be used; and intervention implementation periods should be extended to provide more objective, controlled measurements.
Perinatal Outcomes Associated with Latency in Late Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes
Authors: Choi Eui Kyung , Kim So Yeon , Heo Ji-Man , Park Kyu Hee , Kim Ho Yeon , Choi Byung Min , Kim Hai-Joong
Published: January 2021

This study aims to evaluate the perinatal outcomes of preterm premature rupture of membrane (PPROM) with latency periods at 33 + 0–36 + 6 weeks of gestation. This retrospective case-control study included women with singleton pregnancies who delivered at 33 + 0–36 + 6 weeks at Korea University Ansan Hospital in South Korea between 2006–2019. The maternal and neonatal characteristics were compared between different latency periods (expectant delivery ≥72 h vs. immediate delivery <72 h). Data were compared among 345 women (expectant, n = 39; immediate delivery, n = 306). There was no significant difference in maternal and neonatal morbidities between the groups, despite the younger gestational age in the expectant delivery group. Stratified by gestational weeks, the 34-week infants showed a statistically significant lower exposure to antenatal steroids (73.4% vs. 20.0%, p < 0.001), while the incidence of respiratory distress syndrome (12.8%) and the use of any respiratory support (36.8%) was higher than those in the 33-week infants, without significance. Our study shows that a prolonged latency period (≥72 h) did not increase maternal and neonatal morbidities, and a considerable number of preterm infants immediately delivered at 34 weeks experienced respiratory complications. Expectant management and antenatal corticosteroids should be considered in late preterm infants with PPROM.
Factors Affecting the Cases and Deaths of COVID-19 Victims
Authors: Velasco Jerald M. , Tseng Wei-Chun , Chang Chia-Lin
Published: January 2021

This paper attempts to find the factors that affect the number of cases and deaths of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients a year after the first outbreak in Wuhan, China. There were 141 countries affected with COVID-19 involved in the study. Countries were grouped based on population. Using ordinary least squares regression, it was found that the total number of cases and deaths were significantly related with the levels of population of the different countries. On the overall, median age of the country, and average temperature are positively related with the number of deaths from the virus. On the other hand, population density is positively related with the deaths due to COVID for low populated countries. The result of this preliminary study can be used as a benchmark for authorities in the formulation of policies with regards to treating COVID-19 related issues.
Erratum: Yang, X. et al. Optimization of Culture Conditions for Amoxicillin Degrading Bacteria Screened from Pig Manure. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17, 1973
Authors: Yang Xuanjiang , Guo Panpan , Li Miao , Li Hualong , Hu Zelin , Liu Xianwang , Zhang Qiang
Published: January 2021

The second affiliation of the paper should have been included in our original article [...]
Analysis of Tradable Water Volumes of Industry in Water-Rich Areas of China: A Case Study of Changsha City
Authors: Chen Xiang-nan , Wu Feng-ping , Li Fang , Zhao Yue , Xu Xia
Published: January 2021

Tradable water volumes is one of the basic elements of water-rights trading. In China, water-rights transactions mostly occur in water-deficient areas. However, the water-rich areas are also facing serious water-shortage problems. It is necessary to stimulate the water-rights trading power in abundant water areas to improve water-resource predicament. This paper studied the concept and calculation method of tradable water volumes of industry. First, based on the property rights theory, we analyzed the concept of tradable water volumes, and put forward the preliminary determination of water-rights trading subjects. Then, we defined the tradable water volumes of industry as the difference between the initial water-rights allocation and the water demand of industry. We used the proportion method to calculate the initial water-rights allocation of industry under different runoff frequencies, and grey model (1,1) to predict the water demand of industry. Finally, we applied the calculation method to Changsha city which is in a water-rich area of China. The calculation results contribute to water-resource management in Changsha city. This paper will provide a theoretical basis for researching the tradable water volumes, and promote the development of water-rights trading in China’s water-rich areas.
A Workshop on Cognitive Aging and Impairment in the 9/11-Exposed Population
Authors: Daniels Robert D. , Clouston Sean A. P. , Hall Charles B. , Anderson Kristi R. , Bennett David A. , Bromet Evelyn J. , Calvert Geoffrey M. , Carreón Tania , DeKosky Steven T. , Diminich Erica D. , Finch Caleb E. , Gandy Sam , Kreisl William C. , Kritikos Minos , Kubale Travis L. , Mielke Michelle M. , Peskind Elaine R. , Raskind Murray A. , Richards Marcus , Sano Mary , Santiago-Colón Albeliz , Sloan Richard P. , Spiro Avron , Vasdev Neil , Luft Benjamin J. , Reissman Dori B.
Published: January 2021

The terrorist attacks on 11 September 2001 potentially exposed more than 400,000 responders, workers, and residents to psychological and physical stressors, and numerous hazardous pollutants. In 2011, the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) was mandated to monitor and treat persons with 9/11-related adverse health conditions and conduct research on physical and mental health conditions related to the attacks. Emerging evidence suggests that persons exposed to 9/11 may be at increased risk of developing mild cognitive impairment. To investigate further, the WTCHP convened a scientific workshop that examined the natural history of cognitive aging and impairment, biomarkers in the pathway of neurodegenerative diseases, the neuropathological changes associated with hazardous exposures, and the evidence of cognitive decline and impairment in the 9/11-exposed population. Invited participants included scientists actively involved in health-effects research of 9/11-exposed persons and other at-risk populations. Attendees shared relevant research results from their respective programs and discussed several options for enhancements to research and surveillance activities, including the development of a multi-institutional collaborative research network. The goal of this report is to outline the meeting’s agenda and provide an overview of the presentation materials and group discussion.
A Psychoacoustic Approach to Building Knowledge about Human Response to Noise of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Torija Antonio J. , Clark Charlotte
Published: January 2021

We are on the cusp of a revolution in the aviation sector, driven by the significant progress in electric power and battery technologies, and autonomous systems. Several industry leaders and governmental agencies are currently investigating the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or “drones” as commonly known, for an ever-growing number of applications—from blue light services to parcel delivery and urban mobility. Undoubtedly, the operation of UAVs will lead to noise exposure, which has the potential to become a significant public health issue. This paper first describes the main acoustic and operational characteristics of UAVs, as an unconventional noise source compared to conventional civil aircraft. Gaps in the literature and the regulations on the noise metrics and acceptable noise levels are identified and discussed. The state-of-the-art evidence on human response to aircraft and other environmental noise sources is reviewed and its application for UAVs discussed. A methodological framework is proposed for building psychoacoustic knowledge, to inform systems and operations development to limit the noise impact on communities.
Health Inequities in the Care Pathways for People Living with Young- and Late-Onset Dementia: From Pre-COVID-19 to Early Pandemic
Authors: Giebel Clarissa , Sutcliffe Caroline , Darlington-Pollock Frances , Green Mark A. , Akpan Asan , Dickinson Julie , Watson James , Gabbay Mark
Published: January 2021

Background: Little is known about how people with dementia and/or their family carers access health and social care services after a diagnosis. The aim of this study was to explore potential inequalities in care pathways for people with young-onset and late on-set dementia (YOD/LOD), including their family carers, with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) occurring throughout the course of the study and enabling a comparison between pre-pandemic and COVID-19 times. Methods: People with YOD and LOD with their family carers were recruited via local support groups in the North West Coast region of England. Semi-structured interviews explored the experiences of people with YOD and LOD and family carers on their access to both health and social care services and community-based services. Transcripts were coded by two researchers and analysed using thematic analysis. Fifteen interviews were conducted with seven people with YOD or LOD and 14 family carers between January and March 2020. Some interviews were conducted only with the person with dementia, because they did not have a family carer, and others were conducted only with the family carer, because the person with dementia was in the severe stages of the condition. Results: Four themes emerged from the interviews: (1) Getting the ball rolling: the process of diagnosis; (2) Balancing the support needs of people with dementia and carers; (3) Barriers to accessing support; and (4) Facilitators to accessing support. Inequities existed for both YOD and LOD, with emerging evidence of unequal experiences in accessing care at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussion: People with YOD and LOD and their carers require better support in accessing services after a diagnosis. Greater understanding of the pathways through which inequalities materialise are needed, especially those that might have been disrupted or exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Impressic Acid Attenuates the Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Response by Activating the AMPK/GSK3β/Nrf2 Axis in RAW264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Lee Gi Ho , Kim Ji Yeon , Jin Sun Woo , Pham Thi Hoa , Park Jin Song , Kim Chae Yeon , Choi Jae Ho , Han Eun Hee , Kim Young Ho , Jeong Hye Gwang
Published: January 2021

Inflammatory diseases are caused by excessive inflammation from pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines produced by macrophages. The Nrf2 signaling pathway protects against inflammatory diseases by inhibiting excessive inflammation via the regulation of antioxidant enzymes, including HO-1 and NQO1. We investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of impressic acid (IPA) isolated from Acanthopanax koreanum on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation and the underlying molecular mechanisms in RAW264.7 cells. IPA attenuated the LPS-induced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, and the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. IPA also increased the protein levels of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO1 by phosphorylating CaMKKβ, AMPK, and GSK3β. Furthermore, ML385, an Nrf2 inhibitor, reversed the inhibitory effect of IPA on LPS-induced production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in RAW264.7 cells. Therefore, IPA exerts an anti-inflammatory effect via the AMPK/GSK3β/Nrf2 signaling pathway in macrophages. Taken together, the findings suggest that IPA has preventive potential for inflammation-related diseases.