bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inclusion of Renewable Energy Sources in Municipal Environmental Policy—The Case Study of Kraków, Poland
Authors: Jeleński Tomasz , Dendys Marta , Radziszewska-Zielina Elżbieta , Fedorczak-Cisak Małgorzata
Published: December 2021

This article reviews the evolution of local environmental policy in the context of energy transition and particularly the implementation of RES. The study concerns Kraków, whose policy has been compared with other cities and metropolises and was analysed in a timespan of about 30 years. It was hypothesised that, until recently, RES were treated in the city with reserve concerning their feasibility in local environmental and economic conditions, but since RES have been appreciated as a viable means to effectively combat low-stack emissions, the local air quality targets have been integrated with global decarbonisation goals. This launched a dedicated subsidy stream for RES installations and contributed to the sharp increase in the number of installations. Trend analysis techniques have been used to study environmental indicators in relation to the evolution of municipal policies, the expenditures, and their effects. The review confirms that the implementation of RES had not been a priority for Kraków but a complementary measure to those aimed at improving air quality. The recent integration of the environmental and RES policies has been the next step that is now helping to pursue both the city’s strategic goals: further air quality improvement and climate neutrality by 2050. Kraków may serve as an example of a city that has treated RES in a manner adequate to local conditions and capabilities, thus achieving the intended goals.
A New Prediction Method for the Complete Characteristic Curves of Centrifugal Pumps
Authors: Li Huokun , Lin Hongkang , Huang Wei , Li Jiazhen , Zeng Min , Ma Jiming , Hu Xin
Published: December 2021

Complete pump characteristics (CPCs) are the key for establishing pump boundary conditions and simulating hydraulic transients. However, they are not normally available from manufacturers, making pump station design difficult to carry out. To solve this issue, a novel method considering the inherent operating characteristics of the centrifugal pump is therefore proposed to predict the CPCs. First, depending on the Euler equations and the velocity triangles at the pump impeller, a mathematical model describing the complete characteristics of a centrifugal pump is deduced. Then, based on multiple measured CPCs, the nonlinear functional relationship between the characteristic parameters of the characteristic operating points (COPs) and the specific speed is established. Finally, by combining the mathematical model with the nonlinear relationship, the CPCs for a given specific speed are successfully predicted. A case study shows that the predicted CPCs are basically consistent with the measured data, showing a high prediction accuracy. For a pump-failure water hammer, the simulated results using the predicted CPCs are close to that using the measured data with a small deviation. This method is easy to program and the prediction accuracy meets the requirements for hydraulic transient simulations, providing important data support for engineering design.
Effect of Seawater and Fly Ash Contaminants on Insulator Surfaces Made of Polymer Based on Finite Element Method
Authors: Negara I Made Yulistya , Hernanda I. G. N. Satriyadi , Asfani Dimas Anton , Wardani Mira Kusuma , Yegar Bonifacius Kevin , Syahril Reynaldi
Published: December 2021

Polymer is an insulating substance that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its benefits. Light density, superior dielectric and thermal properties, and water-resistant or hydrophobic properties are only a few of the benefits. The presence of impurities or pollutants on the insulator’s surface lowers its dielectric capacity, which can lead to current leakage. The influence of seawater and fly ash pollutants on the distribution of the electric field and the current density of the insulator was simulated in this study. The finite element method was used to execute the simulation (FEM). Polymer insulators are subjected to testing in order to gather current leakage statistics. The tested insulator is exposed to seawater pollution, which varies depending on the equivalent salt density deposit value (ESDD). The pollutant insulator for fly ash varies depending on the value of non-soluble deposit density (NSDD). The existence of a layer of pollutants increased the value of the electric field and the value of the surface current density, according to the findings. Both in simulation and testing, the ESDD value of seawater pollutants and the NSDD value of fly ash contaminants influenced the value of the leakage current that flowed. The greater the ESDD and NSDD values are, the bigger the leakage current will be.
Well-Logging Prediction Based on Hybrid Neural Network Model
Authors: Wu Lei , Dong Zhenzhen , Li Weirong , Jing Cheng , Qu Bochao
Published: December 2021

Well-logging is an important formation characterization and resource evaluation method in oil and gas exploration and development. However, there has been a shortage of well-logging data because Well-logging can only be measured by expensive and time-consuming field tests. In this study, we aimed to find effective machine learning techniques for well-logging data prediction, considering the temporal and spatial characteristics of well-logging data. To achieve this goal, the convolutional neural network (CNN) and the long short-term memory (LSTM) neural networks were combined to extract the spatial and temporal features of well-logging data, and the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm was used to determine hyperparameters of the optimal CNN-LSTM architecture to predict logging curves in this study. We applied the proposed CNN-LSTM-PSO model, along with support vector regression, gradient-boosting regression, CNN-PSO, and LSTM-PSO models, to forecast photoelectric effect (PE) logs from other logs of the target well, and from logs of adjacent wells. Among the applied algorithms, the proposed CNN-LSTM-PSO model generated the best prediction of PE logs because it fully considers the spatio-temporal information of other well-logging curves. The prediction accuracy of the PE log using logs of the adjacent wells was not as good as that using the other well-logging data of the target well itself, due to geological uncertainties between the target well and adjacent wells. The results also show that the prediction accuracy of the models can be significantly improved with the PSO algorithm. The proposed CNN-LSTM-PSO model was found to enable reliable and efficient Well-logging prediction for existing and new drilled wells; further, as the reservoir complexity increases, the proxy model should be able to reduce the optimization time dramatically.
Application of the ARMA Model to Describe and Forecast the Flotation Feed Solids Flow Rate
Authors: Joostberens Jarosław , Rybak Aurelia , Pielot Joachim , Dylong Artur
Published: December 2021

The flow rate of solids is subject to random disturbances of the changing feed and can significantly affect the quantitative and qualitative parameters of the coal flotation products. This quantity can be described as a stochastic process. The paper presents the results of the solids flow rate model for coal flotation identification calculations, treated as a disturbance to the process. This is an innovative approach to modelling those quantitative parameters of the flotation feed that are measurably available and whose random changes have a significant impact on the enhancement process under industrial conditions. These include the volumetric flow rate of the feed and, in particular, concentration of solids in the feed. Therefore, it is suggested that random changes of these two parameters of the feed should be mapped using a model of one quantity—the flow rate of solids. This solution is advantageous because this quantity, as a quantitative parameter of the feed, has a significant impact on the course of the coal flotation process. The model is necessary in the process of designing an automatic control system through simulation tests. It allows us to generate a data string simulating random changes to this quantitative parameter of the feed. On this basis, in the simulation model, the correct functioning of the automatic control system is tested, the task of which is to compensate the influence of this disturbance. To determine the empirical model of the feed solids flow rate, measurement data obtained during the registration of the solids concentration and volumetric flow rate of the feed were used in four consecutive periods of operation of an industrial facility of one of the Polish coal processing plants. The time courses of the solids flow rate in the feed were described by ARMA (autoregressive–moving-average model) means, and the two-stage least squares method was used to estimate the model parameters. The results of the identification and verification of the designated model showed the correctness of adopting the third-order ARMA model, with parameters a1 = −1.0682, a2 = −0.2931, a3 = 0.3807, c1 = −0.1588, c2 = −0.2301, c3 = 0.1037, and variance σ2ε = 0.0891, white noise sequence εt, determined on the basis of a series of residuals described by the fifth-order model. It has been shown that the identified model of the flow rate of solids of the feed to flotation as disturbances can be used to develop a predictive model that allows forecasting the modelled quantity with a prediction horizon equal to the sampling period. One-step forecasting based on the determined predictor equation was found to give results consistent with the recorded values of the solid part flow rate of the feed and the extreme values of the prediction error are within the range from −1.08 to 2.90 kg/s.
Methodology for Assessing the Stability of Drilling Rigs Based on Analytical Tests
Authors: Bołoz Łukasz , Kozłowski Artur
Published: December 2021

Underground mining machines, such as wheel-tyre drilling rigs, are articulated and equipped with booms that project far beyond the undercarriage. Such a structure makes these machines prone to losing stability. Hence, it is necessary to analyse the distribution of masses and geometry as well as their broadly understood stability during the entire design process, taking into account many factors resulting from the manner and conditions of their operation. However, there are no appropriate computational models that would enable analytical tests to be carried out for machines with this kind of construction. This article is concerned with the author’s computational model, which allows the stability of single- and twin-boom drilling rigs to be quickly assessed. The model makes it possible to perform analyses without having to solve differential equations that are present in dynamic models or using specialist software based on CAD and CAE tools. The developed model allows determination of the pressure of wheels and jacks as a function of many important parameters and variables. Additionally, the distances of the centre of gravity from the tipping edge are calculated. The developed computational model was verified by comparing the obtained results with the results of the full dynamic model, the results of model tests carried out in the CAD/CAE program, and the results of empirical tests of wheel and jack pressures on the ground for the selected drilling rig. The model was subjected to verification and validation, which proved that it was fully correct and useful. The model was used to prepare a practical and user-friendly calculation sheet. Apart from the numerical values, the calculation sheet contains a graphical representation of the machine, the location of the centre of gravity, the tipping edges, as well as graphs of the wheel and jack pressures. Next, analytical tests of the stability of the selected drilling rig were carried out. The obtained calculation results are consistent with the results of empirical research. The computational model and the spreadsheet provide handy tools used during the design process by one of the Polish company’s producing drilling rigs.
Advances in Fluid Power Systems
Authors: Dindorf Ryszard , Takosoglu Jakub , Wos Piotr
Published: December 2021

The main purpose of this special edition of “Advances in Fluid Power Systems” was to present new scientific work in the field of fluid power systems for the hydraulic and pneumatic control of machines and devices that are used in various industries [...]
Mining Technologies Innovative Development: Economic and Sustainable Outlook
Authors: Zhironkin Sergey , Szurgacz Dawid
Published: December 2021

Today science faces the task of ensuring the innovative development of the mineral extractive sector of the economy in resource-rich countries, in the context of unfolding two opposite trends [...]
The Issue of Operating Security Systems in Terms of the Impact of Electromagnetic Interference Generated Unintentionally
Authors: Jakubowski Krzysztof , Paś Jacek , Rosiński Adam
Published: December 2021

This article discusses issues regarding electromagnetic interference generated unintentionally by transport telematics systems and electronic security systems (ESS) located within a railway area. These systems should operate correctly, since they ensure the safety of both vehicles and passengers. The electronic devices they use are exposed to electromagnetic interference that may lead to incorrect ESS functioning. In order to determine the impact of electromagnetic interference on ESS, the authors measured unintentional low-frequency electromagnetic field generated by MV—15 and 30 kV—power lines. This enabled determining the areas with maximum values of electromagnetic interference. The next stage of the research was to develop an ESS operating process model that takes into account the impact of unintentionally generated electromagnetic interference on the operating process. Introducing the electromagnetic interference impact coefficient enables a rational selection of solutions aimed at protecting against electromagnetic interference through the application of technical and organizational measures.
Influence of Externally Bonded CFRP on the Shear Behavior of Strengthened and Rehabilitated Reinforced Concrete T-Beams Containing Shear Stirrups
Authors: Abdel-Jaber Mu’tasime
Published: December 2021

This study aims to investigate the effect of using externally bonded carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) on the strengthening and rehabilitation of reinforced concrete (RC) T-beams reinforced with steel stirrups. Three configurations of CFRP were used: 45° inclined strips, horizontal straight strips, and U-wrapped sheets. A total of 19 specimens of strengthened and preloaded RC T-beams were experimentally tested. The experimental results were compared with the theoretical values determined according to the ACI 440.2R−17 code. The results proved that all beams containing CFRP recorded higher strength than the control sample, regardless of whether the beams were tested for strengthening or rehabilitation purposes. The horizontal straight strips of the CFRP schemes recorded the highest enhancement in the shear capacity, followed by the U-wrapped sheets and inclined strips. Moreover, the ACI 440.2R−17 code overestimated the capacities of some samples.
Mental Health Symptoms Associated with Sexualized Drug Use (Chemsex) among Men Who Have Sex with Men: A Systematic Review
Authors: Íncera-Fernández Daniel , Gámez-Guadix Manuel , Moreno-Guillén Santiago
Published: December 2021

Background: Sexualized drug use (SDU), also known as chemsex, refers to the use of psychoactive substances for sexual purposes among men who have sex with men (MSM), which has been associated with mental health symptoms. The objective of this review is to systematically review the available evidence on mental health outcomes in MSM who use sexualized drugs. Methods: To prepare this systematic review, search strategies were developed and applied to the Web of Science, Science Direct, PubMed, and Scopus databases. A total of 117 articles were found, of which 12 were selected for the final review. Results: Those MSM who practiced SDU were more likely to experience from depression, anxiety, or a substance dependence, although these results were not found in all the studies analyzed. Among those who practiced the administration of intravenous drugs (referred to as slamsex), the mental health symptoms were more severe. Conclusions: This systematic review contributes to a fuller understanding of the mental health symptoms present in MSM who consume drugs for sexual purposes. Greater uniformity in data collection instruments is required, as well as the need to conduct a more in-depth assessment of the psychosocial adjustment of people who practice chemsex.
A Golf Course Quality Scale (GCQS): Validity and Reliability Testing on Spanish Golf Courses
Authors: Cavas-García Francisco , Martínez-Moreno Alfonso , López-Gullón José María , Díaz-Suárez Arturo
Published: December 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties, in terms of validity and reproducibility, of the Golf Course Quality Scale (GCQS) in the Spanish golf course context. The GCQS is a scale that measures the quality of a golf course perceived by its users. It is comprised of 22 five-point Likert scale items, ranging from 1 (disagree) to 5 (totally agree). The items were grouped into five dimensions: services, etiquette, facilities, golf courses, and staff. A translated and adapted version of the Australian CQS questionnaire was administered to a total of 401 federated golf players in the Region of Murcia (RM). The margin of error was 4.9% with a confidence level of 95%. Of the total sample, 88.5% were men and 11.5% were women. The participants were between the ages of 18 and 80 (M = 54.1, SD = 14.3). Following an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to determine the suitability of the proposed items and the factorial structure of the scale, a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed using structural equations under the maximum likelihood extraction method. This assessed the fit of the model and its internal consistency, with values above 0.79. In conclusion, the validity and reliability of this psychometric scale for the purposes of evaluating the quality of golf courses perceived by their users have been verified. The results confirm that the scale is a useful tool for golf course research and management.
Ambient Air Pollution and Cardiorespiratory Outcomes amongst Adults Residing in Four Informal Settlements in the Western Province of South Africa
Authors: Bagula Herman , Olaniyan Toyib , de Hoogh Kees , Saucy Apolline , Parker Bhawoodien , Leaner Joy , Röösli Martin , Dalvie Mohamed Aqiel
Published: December 2021

Few studies have investigated the relationship between ambient air pollution and cardiorespiratory outcomes in Africa. A cross-sectional study comprising of 572 adults from four informal settlements in the Western Cape, South Africa was conducted. Participants completed a questionnaire adapted from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey, and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey questionnaire. Exposure estimates were previously modelled using Land-Use Regression for Particulate Matter (PM2.5) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) at participants’ homes. The median age of the participants was 40.7 years, and 88.5% were female. The median annual NO2 level was 19.7 µg/m3 (interquartile range [IQR: 9.6–23.7]) and the median annual PM2.5 level was 9.7 µg/m3 (IQR: 7.3–12.4). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess associations between outcome variables and air pollutants. An interquartile range increase of 5.12 µg/m3 in PM2.5 was significantly associated with an increased prevalence of self-reported chest-pain, [Odds ratio: 1.38 (95% CI: 1.06–1.80)], adjusting for NO2, and other covariates. The study found preliminary circumstantial evidence of an association between annual ambient PM2.5 exposure and self-reported chest-pain (a crude proxy of angina-related pain), even at levels below the South African National Ambient Air Quality Standards.
Alcohol Use and Its Related Psychosocial Effects during the Prolonged COVID-19 Pandemic in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Sugaya Nagisa , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Suzuki Naho , Uchiumi Chigusa
Published: December 2021

We conducted a large-scale survey in the Japanese population, about one year after the initial declaration of the state of emergency, to investigate alcohol use under the prolonged coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and its related psychosocial and demographic characteristics. The survey was conducted online between 15 and 20 June 2021. A total of 11,427 participants were included in the analysis (48.5% female, 48.82 ± 13.30 years, range = 20–90 years). Compared with females, males were more prevalent in the hazardous user and the potential alcoholism group and were less prevalent in the no alcohol-related problem group. However, the prevalence of potential alcoholism among the participants in our study was higher than that previously reported. This trend was particularly pronounced in women. The presence of potential alcoholism was related to a deteriorated psychological status, particularly depression and anxiety, and various difficulties in their daily lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the future, intervention methods and systems should be developed to provide optimal assistance to people with psychological problems who are vulnerable to alcohol-related problems during the COVID-19 pandemic, while conducting further long-term follow-up studies.
Relationship between Resting State Heart Rate Variability and Sleep Quality in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Grässler Bernhard , Dordevic Milos , Herold Fabian , Darius Sabine , Langhans Corinna , Halfpaap Nicole , Labott Berit K. , Müller Patrick , Ammar Achraf , Thielmann Beatrice , Böckelmann Irina , Müller Notger G. , Hökelmann Anita
Published: December 2021

Sleep problems can be caused by psychological stress but are also related to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Improving lifestyle behaviors, such as good sleep hygiene, can help to counteract the negative effects of neurodegenerative diseases and to improve quality of life. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the relationship between subjectively reported measures of sleep quality (via Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)) and objective measures of cardiac autonomic control (via resting state heart rate variability (HRV)) among individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The PSQI and resting state HRV data of 42 MCI participants (69.0 ± 5.5; 56–80 years) were analyzed. Nineteen of the participants reported poor sleep quality (PSQI score > 5). Good sleepers showed higher resting heart rate than bad sleepers (p = 0.037; ES = 0.670). Correlation analysis showed a significant correlation between the parameter HF nu and sleep efficiency, contrasting the expected positive association between reduced HRV and poor sleep quality in healthy and individuals with specific diseases. Otherwise, there were no significances, indicating that measures of subjective sleep quality and resting HRV were not related in the present sample of MCI participants. Further research is needed to better understand the complex relationship between HRV and lifestyle factors (e.g., sleep) in MCI.
A Study of Differences in Compulsory Courses Offering Medicine Humanization and Medical Communication in Polish Medical Schools: Content Analysis of Secondary Data
Authors: Dec-Pietrowska Joanna , Szczepek Agnieszka
Published: December 2021

Medical humanity is an essential element of medical education, and the respective courses are introduced to the curricula of medical schools worldwide. However, significant differences in this type of medical education were identified in Italy, Spain, and the UK. In Poland, this issue was not yet analyzed. The classes offered on a compulsory and not elective basis secure the uniform skills of future physicians. Therefore, we were prompted to ask a question: do Polish medical students receive equal compulsory education in medical humanities? To answer that question, we performed a content analysis of mandatory classes’ frequency, types, and content on medical humanization and communication in Polish medical schools. The study used publicly available information provided on the home pages of the universities to perform content and comparative analyses. Of 22 identified universities, 15 had publicly listed teaching programs, and nine had freely available syllabi. The names and types of courses varied from school to school. The number of hours the courses offered throughout medical education ranged from 15 to 216. In some medical schools, the classes were scheduled during the early, pre-clinical part of the study, whereas in other schools they were offered each year. The content of the courses always covered the topics of physician–patient communication but rarely offered protocols, such as the Calgary Cambridge guide. We conclude that the medical humanities represented by medical humanization and communication courses are included in the publicly available compulsory curriculum of most Polish medical schools. However, to secure equal education of future Polish physicians, there is a need to unify the medical humanities program.
Influence of Financialization of Heavily Polluting Enterprises on Technological Innovation under the Background of Environmental Pollution Control
Authors: Zhou Yingying , Du Yuehan , Lei Fengyi , Su Ziru , Feng Yifei , Li Jie
Published: December 2021

In the wake of the acceleration of China’s industrialization and rapid economic growth, environmental pollution has also attracted great attention. The technological innovation of heavily polluting enterprises is conducive to reducing pollution emissions and promoting environmental health. The financial investment tendency and behavior of real enterprises have a significant impact on the technological innovation decision-making of enterprises. A panel model is used in this paper in order to empirically test the impact of financialization of Chinese heavily polluting enterprises on technological innovation based on the data of Listed Companies in Chinese heavily polluting industries from 2008 to 2019. The + results show that the financialization of heavily polluting enterprises has a significant crowding out effect on technological innovation. After introducing arbitrage motivation as the regulating variable, further research finds that arbitrage motivation weakens the inhibitory effect of enterprise financialization on technological innovation, that is, the stronger the arbitrage motivation, the smaller the negative effect of financialization on enterprise technological innovation, which weakens this crowding out effect. Finally, the listed enterprises in heavily polluting industries are divided into state-owned enterprises and non-state-owned enterprises according to their corporate attributes. Compared with state-owned enterprises, the financialization of non-state-owned enterprises has a greater squeeze out of technological innovation; and arbitrage motivation has a more significant regulatory effect on the impact of enterprise financialization on technological innovation.
Effects of Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Triathletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Borrego-Sánchez Alicia , Vinolo-Gil Maria Jesus , de-la-Casa-Almeida Maria , Rodríguez-Huguet Manuel , Casuso-Holgado María Jesús , Martín-Valero Rocío
Published: December 2021

Triathlon is an aerobic sport, which is commonly measured by maximal aerobic consumption (VO2max). Objective: to analyze the changes produced in cardiorespiratory and physiological measurements during practice, which determine triathletes’ performance level. A systematic review and a meta-analysis based on PRISMA protocol and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020189076) was conducted. The research was performed using PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Embase, Dialnet, Web of Science (WOS) and MEDLINE databases during February and March 2020. Studies that measured cardiorespiratory variables in triathletes published in the last 10 years were included. Results: 713 articles were identified, with 25 studies selected for the systematic review and five articles for the meta-analysis. These articles concluded that the main cardiorespiratory variables that determine triathletes’ performance were modified depending on the triathlon segment performed and the athletes’ sex and age. The meta-analysis showed no conclusive results related to the effects of changes in VO2max in triathletes’ performance [SMD = −0.21; 95%CI: (−0.84 to 0.43)]. Conclusions: cardiorespiratory fitness, in terms of VO2max and ventilatory thresholds, is the strongest predictor of performance in triathlon. This response may be affected depending on the triathlon segment performed and the athlete’s age or sex, leading to both physiological and biomechanical alterations that affect competition performance.
Death Notification in Italian Critical Care Unites and Emergency Services. A Qualitative Study with Physicians, Nurses and Relatives
Authors: Testoni Ines , Iacona Erika , Palazzo Lorenza , Barzizza Beatrice , Baldrati Beatrice , Mazzon Davide , Navalesi Paolo , Mistraletti Giovanni , Leo Diego De
Published: December 2021

This qualitative study was conducted in critical care units and emergency services and was aimed at considering the death notification (DN) phenomenology among physicians (notifiers), patient relatives (receivers) and those who work between them (nurses). Through the qualitative method, a systemic perspective was adopted to recognise three different categories of representation: 23 clinicians, 13 nurses and 11 family members of COVID-19 victims were interviewed, totalling 47 people from all over Italy (25 females, mean age: 46,36; SD: 10,26). With respect to notifiers, the following themes emerged: the changes in the relational dimension, protective factors and difficulties related to DN. With respect to receivers, the hospital was perceived as a prison, bereavement between DN, lost rituals and continuing bonds. Among nurses, changes in the relational dimension, protective factors and the impact of the death. Some common issues between physicians and nurses were relational difficulties in managing distancing and empathy and the support of relatives and colleagues. The perspective of receivers showed suffering related to loss and health care professionals’ inefficacy in communication. Specifically, everyone considered DNs mismanaged because of the COVID-19 emergency. Some considerations inherent in death education for DN management among health professionals were presented.
Measure of Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay Men (MISS-LG) in Taiwan: Psychometric Evidence from Rasch and Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Yen Cheng-Fang , Huang Yu-Te , Potenza Marc N. , Tsai Tzu-Tung , Lin Chung-Ying , Tsang Hector W. H.
Published: December 2021

Internalized sexual stigma may hamper the development of self-identity, social interaction, and intimate relationship in lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. The Measure of Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay Men (MISS-LG) is an important instrument assessing internalized sexual stigma for LGB individuals. However, its psychometric properties have not been examined in LGB populations outside the Italian community. The present study used advanced psychometric testing to evaluate the traditional Chinese version (the MISS-LG) among LGB individuals in Taiwan. LGB individuals (500 male, 500 female) participated in this study and completed the MISS-LG, HIV and Homosexuality Related Stigma (HHRS), and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ). Confirmatory factor analysis results confirmed the three-factor structure of the MISS-LG; however, two items for males and one item for females had somewhat low factor loadings on the sexuality factor. Each MISS-LG factor was found to be unidimensional in Rasch results, except for the slight misfit in Item 3 and concurrent validity of the MISS-LG was supported by the positive correlations with HHRS and the AAQ. The Chinese MISS-LG has relatively satisfactory psychometric properties. However, further research is needed to investigate the reasons for problematic fitting of several items.
Effect of CAD/CAM Ceramic Thickness on Shade Masking Ability of Discolored Teeth: In Vitro Study
Authors: Ellakany Passent , Madi Marwa , Aly Nourhan M. , Al-Aql Zainb S. , AlGhamdi Maher , AlJeraisy Abdulrahman , Alagl Adel S.
Published: December 2021

Shade matching is a common challenge that dentists face during fabrication of esthetic dental restoration. Thus, the aim of the current study was to assess the masking ability of two types of CAD/CAM ceramics for gaining high esthetic prosthesis. This in vitro study used a total sample size of 66 lithium disilicate (LD) and leucite reinforced (LR) CAD/CAM ceramics sub-grouped into three thicknesses: 0.5, 1, and 1.5 mm. Nine shades of natural dentin die materials were prepared as a replica of the underlying tooth structure. The difference in color (ΔE) and translucency parameter (TP) were assessed for both tested ceramics at the three thicknesses. One-way ANOVA was performed to compare the three thicknesses of each ceramic, followed by multiple pairwise comparisons between both ceramics. LR had significantly higher ΔE than LD at all thicknesses used unlike the case in TP. Thickness of 0.5 mm exhibited the highest ΔE and TP, while 1.5 mm thickness showed the lowest ΔE and TP in both ceramics. Increase in ceramic thickness had a great impact on both color masking ability of the underlying tooth structure and its translucency. The higher the ceramic thickness, the better the masking ability and the lower the translucency was reported.
Mitigation of CyanoHABs Using Phoslock® to Reduce Water Column Phosphorus and Nutrient Release from Sediment
Authors: Li Ji , Sellner Kevin , Place Allen , Cornwell Jeffrey , Gao Yonghui
Published: December 2021

Cyanobacterial blooms can be stimulated by excessive phosphorus (P) input, especially when diazotrophs are the dominant species. A series of mesocosm experiments were conducted in a lake dominated by a cyanobacteria bloom to study the effects of Phoslock®, a phosphorus adsorbent. The results showed that the addition of Phoslock® lowered the soluble reactive phosphate (SRP) concentrations in water due to efficient adsorption and mitigated the blooms. Once settled on the sediments, Phoslock® serves as a barrier to reduce P diffusion from sediments into the overlying waters. In short-term (1 day) incubation experiments, Phoslock® diminished or reversed SRP effluxes from bottom sediments. At the same time, the upward movement of the oxic–anoxic interface through the sediment column slightly enhanced NH4+ release and depressed N2 release, suggesting the inhibition of nitrification and denitrification. In a long-term (28 days) experiment, Phoslock® hindered the P release, reduced the cyanobacterial abundance, and alleviated the bloom-driven enhancements in the pH and oxygen. These results suggest that, through suppression of internal nutrient effluxes, Phoslock® can be used as an effective control technology to reduce cyanobacteria blooms common to many freshwater systems.
A Delphi Consensus Approach for the Management of Chronic Pain during and after the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Cascella Marco , Miceli Luca , Cutugno Francesco , Di Lorenzo Giorgio , Morabito Alessandro , Oriente Alfonso , Massazza Giuseppe , Magni Alberto , Marinangeli Franco , Cuomo Arturo ,   on behalf of the DELPHI Panel
Published: December 2021

Due to a lack of published evidence on the topic, a modified Delphi approach was used to develop recommendations useful for chronic pain management during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Focusing on the available literature and personal clinical expertise, an Italian board of nine professionals from different disciplines identified four main topics: prevention of chronic pain, treatment of chronic pain, consequences of inadequate treatment, and perspectives. They elaborated a semi-structured questionnaire. A multidisciplinary panel of experts in the field of pain management was requested to comment on the statements. Based on the answers provided, a structured questionnaire was prepared (Round 1). It included 21 statements divided into three categories (organizational issues; diagnosis and therapies; telemedicine and future perspectives). A five-point Likert scale was adopted. The threshold for consensus was set at a minimum of 70% of the number of respondents (level of agreement ≥ 4, Agree or Strongly Agree). A final questionnaire with rephrasing of the statements that did not reach the consensus threshold was elaborated (Round 2). A total of 29 clinicians were included in the panel. Twenty clinicians (69%) responded in both the first and second round. After two rounds, consensus (≥70%) was achieved in 20 out of 21 statements. The lack of consensus was recorded for the statement regarding the management of post-COVID pain (55%; Median 4; IQR 2.3). Another statement on telemedicine reached the threshold in the first round (70%), but the value was not confirmed in Round 2 (65%; Median 4; IQR 2). Most of the proposed items reached consensus, suggesting the need to make organizational changes, the structuring of careful diagnostic and therapeutic pathways, and the application of new technologies in pain medicine. Long-COVID-19 care is an issue that needs further research. Remote assistance for chronic pain must be regulated.
Gender-Based Violence Risk Mitigation by Non-GBV Specialists Prior to and during COVID-19: A Global Survey of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Humanitarian Practitioners
Authors: Sharma Vandana , Gompers Annika , Kelly Jocelyn T. D. , Patrick Erin , Heckman Christine , Solomon Arsema , Scott Jennifer
Published: December 2021

Available evidence indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic and response measures may lead to increased risk of gender-based violence (GBV), including in humanitarian contexts. This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of humanitarian practitioners related to GBV risk mitigation approaches during COVID-19 in order to refine current guidance and inform future materials. A global, online cross-sectional survey of humanitarian practitioners was conducted between November 2020 and April 2021. We calculated descriptive statistics and used Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests to compare knowledge, attitudes, and practices among GBV specialists and non-specialists. Of 170 respondents, 58% were female and 44% were GBV specialists. Almost all (95%) of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they have a role to play in GBV risk mitigation. Compared to GBV specialists, a higher proportion of non-specialists reported little to no knowledge on GBV risk mitigation global guidance (38% vs. 7%, p < 0.001) and on how to respond to a disclosure of GBV (18% vs. 3%, p < 0.001). Respondents reported several barriers to integrating GBV risk mitigation into their work during COVID-19, including insufficient funding, capacity, knowledge, and guidance. Efforts to mainstream GBV risk mitigation actions should continue and intensify, leveraging the lessons and experiences generated thus far.
Influence of Physical and Technical Aspects on Change of Direction Performance of Rugby Players: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Freitas Tomás T. , Alcaraz Pedro E. , Calleja-González Julio , Arruda Ademir F. S. , Guerriero Aristide , Mercer Valter P. , Pereira Lucas A. , Carpes Felipe P. , McGuigan Michael R. , Loturco Irineu
Published: December 2021

We examined the relationships between change of direction (COD) speed and deficit, and a series of speed- and power-related measurements in national team rugby union players and analyzed the influence of movement patterns on COD ability. Eleven male athletes completed the following physical assessments on different days: day 1—anthropometric measurements, and lower-body kinematic parameters (assessed with eight inertial sensors) and completion time in COD tests (pro-agility, 45° cutting maneuver (CUT), and “L” (L-Drill)); day 2—bilateral and unilateral squat and countermovement jumps, 40 m linear sprint, and bar-power output in the jump squat and half-squat exercises. Pearson’s product–moment correlations were performed to determine the relationships between COD velocities, COD deficits, and the speed–power variables. Differences between players with higher and lower COD deficits were examined using magnitude-based inferences. Results showed that (1) greater sprint momentum was associated with higher COD deficits, particularly in drills with sharper angles and multiple directional changes (L-drill and pro-agility); (2) higher unilateral jump heights were associated with greater COD deficits in the pro-agility and L-drill but not in the CUT; (3) faster athletes were less efficient at changing direction and presented greater trunk and knee flexion angles during COD maneuvers, probably as a consequence of higher inertia.
Performance of a Genetic Algorithm for Estimating DeGroot Opinion Diffusion Model Parameters for Health Behavior Interventions
Authors: Johnson Kara Layne , Walsh Jennifer L. , Amirkhanian Yuri A. , Carnegie Nicole Bohme
Published: December 2021

Leveraging social influence is an increasingly common strategy to change population behavior or acceptance of public health policies and interventions; however, assessing the effectiveness of these social network interventions and projecting their performance at scale requires modeling of the opinion diffusion process. We previously developed a genetic algorithm to fit the DeGroot opinion diffusion model in settings with small social networks and limited follow-up of opinion change. Here, we present an assessment of the algorithm performance under the less-than-ideal conditions likely to arise in practical applications. We perform a simulation study to assess the performance of the algorithm in the presence of ordinal (rather than continuous) opinion measurements, network sampling, and model misspecification. We found that the method handles alternate models well, performance depends on the precision of the ordinal scale, and sampling the full network is not necessary to use this method. We also apply insights from the simulation study to investigate notable features of opinion diffusion models for a social network intervention to increase uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among Black men who have sex with men (BMSM).
Obesity and Diet Predict Attitudes towards Health Promotion in Pre-Registered Nurses and Midwives
Authors: Blake Holly , Watkins Kathryn , Middleton Matthew , Stanulewicz Natalia
Published: December 2021

Nurses and midwives are integral to public health promotion; in the UK, they are advised to act as role models by their governing body, but overweight or obesity rates are high. We explored whether obesity and dietary habits are related to attitudes towards healthy role modelling and health promotion practice. A total of 346 pre-registered UK nurses and midwives (92.6% female; 18–53 years) completed an online survey. Items included body composition, dietary habits assessed by the Lifestyle Behaviour Questionnaire (LBQ), attitudes towards being role models for health (RA: role attitudes) and attitudes toward health promotion practice (ATHPP): 33.8% of the sample self-reported as overweight or obese; 67.6% did not consume 5-a-day portions of fruit/veg; 31.5% reported a healthy diet; and 89.6% believed their diet could be healthier. Positive RA was significantly linked to health promotion engagement (HP) (ß = 0.33, p < 0.001). Positive ATHPP was significantly predicted by lower BMI (ß = −0.08, p = 0.078), positive RA (ß = 0.67, p < 0.001), lower HP (ß = −0.25, p < 0.001) and male gender (ß = 0.09, p = 0.02). Greater confidence in patients valuing healthcare professional’s advice was predicted by healthier diet (ß = 0.11, p = 0.03), lower BMI (ß = −0. 16, p < 0.01), more positive RA (ß = 0.14, p < 0.01) as well as HP engagement during training (ß = 0.20, p < 0.01). One’s own motivation to promote health, similarly to ATHPP, was predicted by RA (ß = 0.17, p = 0.001) and previous HP engagement (ß = 0.39, p < 0.001). Findings show that overweight and obesity are prevalent in pre-registered nurses and midwives; the majority did not consume a healthy diet. Individual’s body composition, diet and attitudes towards role modelling are positively associated with their attitudes towards, and confidence in, health promotion practice. Experiences of health promotion practice during training can have either a positive or a negative influence on attitudes. Mentors and educators could actively promote healthy lifestyles for pre-registered nurses and midwives and facilitate more opportunities for health promotion practice during placements, which includes time for reflection.
Usability Study of a Multicomponent Exergame Training for Older Adults with Mobility Limitations
Authors: Thalmann Melanie , Ringli Lisa , Adcock Manuela , Swinnen Nathalie , de Jong Jacqueline , Dumoulin Chantal , Guimarães Vânia , de Bruin Eling D.
Published: December 2021

The global population aged 60 years and over rises due to increasing life expectancy. More older adults suffer from “geriatric giants”. Mobility limitations, including immobility and instability, are usually accompanied by physical and cognitive decline, and can be further associated with gait changes. Improvements in physical and cognitive functions can be achieved with virtual reality exergame environments. This study investigated the usability of the newly developed VITAAL exergame in mobility-impaired older adults aged 60 years and older. Usability was evaluated with a mixed-methods approach including a usability protocol, the System Usability Scale, and a guideline-based interview. Thirteen participants (9 female, 80.5 ± 4.9 years, range: 71–89) tested the exergame and completed the measurement. The System Usability Scale was rated in a marginal acceptability range (58.3 ± 16.5, range: 30–85). The usability protocol and the guideline-based interview revealed general positive usability. The VITAAL exergame prototype received positive feedback and can be considered usable by older adults with mobility limitations. However, minor improvements to the system in terms of design, instructions, and technical aspects should be taken into account. The results warrant testing of the feasibility of the adapted multicomponent VITAAL exergame, and its effects on physical and cognitive functions, in comparison with conventional training, should be studied.
On the Road to Accurate Protein Biomarkers in Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis: Current Status and Future Advances
Authors: Yan Yiwu , Yeon Su Yeon , Qian Chen , You Sungyong , Yang Wei
Published: December 2021

Prostate cancer (PC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among men worldwide. Molecular biomarkers work in conjunction with existing clinicopathologic tools to help physicians decide who to biopsy, re-biopsy, treat, or re-treat. The past decade has witnessed the commercialization of multiple PC protein biomarkers with improved performance, remarkable progress in proteomic technologies for global discovery and targeted validation of novel protein biomarkers from clinical specimens, and the emergence of novel, promising PC protein biomarkers. In this review, we summarize these advances and discuss the challenges and potential solutions for identifying and validating clinically useful protein biomarkers in PC diagnosis and prognosis. The identification of multi-protein biomarkers with high sensitivity and specificity, as well as their integration with clinicopathologic parameters, imaging, and other molecular biomarkers, bodes well for optimal personalized management of PC patients.