bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Industrial Data Denoising via Low-Rank and Sparse Representations and Its Application in Tunnel Boring Machine
Authors: Wang Yitang , Pang Yong , Sun Wei , Song Xueguan
Published: May 2022

The operation data of a tunnel boring machine (TBM) reflects its geological conditions and working status, which can provide critical references and essential information for TBM designers and operators. However, in practice, operation data may get corrupted due to equipment failures or data management errors. Moreover, the working state of a TBM system usually changes, which results in patterns of operation data that vary comparatively. This paper proposes a denoising approach to process the corrupted data. This approach is combined with low-rank matrix recovery (LRMR) and sparse representation (SR) theory. The classical LRMR model requires that the noise must be sparse, but the sparsity of noise cannot be fully guaranteed. In the proposed model, a weighted nuclear norm is utilized to enhance the sparsity of sparse components, and a constraint of condition number is applied to ensure the stability of the model solution. The approach is coupled with a fuzzy c-means algorithm (FCM) to find the natural partitioning using the TBM operation data as input. The performances of the proposed approach are illustrated through an application to the Shenzhen metro. Experimental results show that the proposed approach performs well in corrupted TBM data denoising. The different excavation status of the TBM recognition accuracy is improved remarkably after denoising.
A Review of Reinforcement Learning Applications to Control of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems
Authors: Sierla Seppo , Ihasalo Heikki , Vyatkin Valeriy
Published: May 2022

Reinforcement learning has emerged as a potentially disruptive technology for control and optimization of HVAC systems. A reinforcement learning agent takes actions, which can be direct HVAC actuator commands or setpoints for control loops in building automation systems. The actions are taken to optimize one or more targets, such as indoor air quality, energy consumption and energy cost. The agent receives feedback from the HVAC systems to quantify how well these targets have been achieved. The feedback is captured by a reward function designed by the developer of the reinforcement learning agent. A few reviews have focused on the reward aspect of reinforcement learning applications for HVAC. However, there is a lack of reviews that assess how the actions of the reinforcement learning agent have been formulated, and how this impacts the possibilities to achieve various optimization targets in single zone or multi-zone buildings. The aim of this review is to identify the action formulations in the literature and to assess how the choice of formulation impacts the level of abstraction at which the HVAC systems are considered. Our methodology involves a search string in the Web of Science database and a list of selection criteria applied to each article in the search results. For each selected article, a three-tier categorization of the selected articles has been performed. Firstly, the applicability of the approach to buildings with one or more zones is considered. Secondly, the articles are categorized by the type of action taken by the agent, such as a binary, discrete or continuous action. Thirdly, the articles are categorized by the aspects of the indoor environment being controlled, namely temperature, humidity or air quality. The main result of the review is this three-tier categorization that reveals the community’s emphasis on specific HVAC applications, as well as the readiness to interface the reinforcement learning solutions to HVAC systems. The article concludes with a discussion of trends in the field as well as challenges that require further research.
Short-Circuit Fault Current Modeling of a DC Light Rail System with a Wayside Energy Storage Device
Authors: Radu Petru Valentin , Lewandowski Miroslaw , Szelag Adam , Steczek Marcin
Published: May 2022

This paper proposes a simulation model to calculate short-circuit fault currents in a DC light rail system with a wayside energy storage device. The simulation model was built in MATLAB/Simulink using the electrical information required to define a comprehensive DC traction power rail system. The short-circuit fault current results obtained from the simulation model were compared with hand calculation results obtained using EN 50123-1 guidance. The relative error was 1.02%, which validates the model. A case study was carried out for a 1500 V DC light rail system. In the case study, a method was proposed to assess the DC protection and the withstand and breaking capacity of the DC circuit breakers for maximum current and distant faults. A traction power modeling simulation was conducted for the 1500 V DC light rail system to calculate the maximum load current in the analyzed electrical sections. It is concluded that the proposed simulation model and fault methodology can be used for DC protection settings calculations and DC circuit breaker rating analysis.
The Impact of Conventional Power Block Startup Procedures on the Fatigue Behavior of Drum Materials
Authors: Okrajni Jerzy , Wacławiak Krzysztof , Twardawa Mariusz , Junak Grzegorz
Published: May 2022

Varying demands for electricity within the energy sector require the modification of operating modes to ensure both an uninterrupted electricity supply and the upholding of safety standards. This paper presents a method for the prediction of drum fatigue life, via the local analysis of stress–strain fields and low-cycle fatigue tests of the drum material. The analysis compares the fatigue properties of an unused material and a material that has undergone many years of operation. In addition, this paper suggests drum operating conditions based on the results of load testing under industrial conditions. The drum model was developed on the basis of technical documentation. The analysis includes the calculations of time-dependent temperature distributions, stresses, and strains for various drum startup modes. The drum material fatigue properties are determined under low-cycle conditions. Using the modeling results and fatigue properties, predictions of drum life for different startup modes are presented. The paper summarizes the impact of a range of startup procedures and the drum material fatigue properties on the fatigue life of a working drum, under various mechanical and thermal loads. In addition, this paper proposes a methodological approach to fatigue life assessment, as a combination of multiple research methods.
Vegetation and Topographic Factors Affecting SOM, SOC, and N Contents in a Mountainous Watershed in North China
Authors: Lv Xiangrong , Jia Guodong , Yu Xinxiao , Niu Lili
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to reveal the main environmental factors affecting PH, SOM, SOC, TN, and AHN in mountainous areas of Beijing, using the Chaoguan Xigou watershed as the research object. The relationship among pH, SOM, SOC, TN, AHN, topographic factors, and vegetation factors was analyzed by correlation and redundancy analysis (RDA). The results showed that altitude was significantly positively correlated with vegetation types in the study area (p < 0.01). Menhinnick richness index (D), Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H), and Alatalo evenness index (E) ranged from 0.35–0.79, 0.86–1.73, and 0.39–0.7, respectively, indicating moderate variations. E was significantly positively correlated with stand type (p < 0.05), altitude (p < 0.05), and H (p < 0.01). The variation ranges of PH, SOM, SOC, TN, and AHN in soil were 5.78–7.13, 54.73–90.38 g/kg, 23.77–60.25 g/kg, 1.71–4.22 g/kg, and 95.64–223.26 mg/kg, respectively. All soil nutrient indexes had medium variation except for pH (weak variation). In this study, RDA results showed that altitude is the main environmental factor affecting the soil pH, SOM, SOC, TN, and AHN in this area and could explain 25.9% of the total variance. However, the effects of factors associated with altitude on pH, SOM, SOC, TN, and AHN need to be further studied.
An Ecosystem Services-Centric Land Use and Land Cover Classification for a Subbasin of the Tampa Bay Watershed
Authors: Lagrosa John J. , Zipperer Wayne C. , Andreu Michael G.
Published: May 2022

Land-use and land-cover (LULC) change is a primary driver of terrestrial carbon release, often through the conversion of forest into agriculture or expansion of urban areas. Classification schemes are a key component of landscape analyses. This study creates a novel LULC classification scheme by incorporating ecological data to redefine classes of an existing LULC classification based on variation in above-ground tree carbon. A tree inventory was conducted for 531 plots within a subbasin of the Tampa Bay Watershed, Florida, USA. Above-ground tree carbon was estimated using the i-Tree model. Plots were classified using the Florida Land Use Cover Classification System. Mean quantities of above-ground tree carbon, by class, were tested for statistical differences. A reclassification was conducted based on these differences. Sub-classes within a given “land cover” class were similar for six of the seven classes. Significant differences were found within the “Wetlands” class based on vegetation cover, forming two distinct groups: “Forested Wetlands” and “Non-forested and Mangrove Wetlands”. The urban “land use” class showed differences between “Residential” and “Non-residential” sub-classes, forming two new classes. LULC classifications can sometimes aggregate areas perceived as similar that are in fact distinct regarding ecological variables. These aggregations can obscure the true variation in a parameter at the landscape scale. Therefore, a study’s classification system should be designed to reflect landscape variation in the parameter(s) of interest.
The Lifetime Migratory History of Anadromous Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis): Insights and Risks from Pesticide-Induced Fish Kills
Authors: Roloson Scott D. , Knysh Kyle M. , Landsman Sean J. , James Travis L. , Hicks Brendan J. , van den Heuvel Michael R.
Published: May 2022

Brook trout populations in Prince Edward Island, Canada, have experienced over 50 pesticide-related fish kills since the 1960s. Life history evaluation of large sea-run brook trout recovered following two fish kill events was compared with a reference river using strontium:calcium otolith microchemistry. This study examined the dual hypotheses that anadromous brook trout are more likely to arise from sea-run mothers, and that freshwater entry timing makes them vulnerable to pesticide-induced fish kills. A total 89% of the fish exhibited an anadromous life history, and 77% of these were offspring of anadromous mothers, suggesting that anadromy is dominant in progeny of sea-run mothers. This study adds to our understanding of the maternal inheritance of anadromy in sea-run brook trout populations. Additionally, freshwater entry precedes the majority of fish kill events, illustrating that the overlap between migration and pesticide runoff contributes to the cumulative population risks to sea-run brook trout.
Flow Characterization at Heated Air Supersonic Facility SBR-50
Authors: Andrews Philip , Lax Philip , Elliott Skye , Firsov Alexander , Leonov Sergey
Published: May 2022

The supersonic wind tunnel facility SBR-50 at the University of Notre Dame was built in 2015 for experimental research related to shock wave (SW) interactions with obstacles and boundary layers (BL) as well as supersonic combustion and a plasma-based flow control. Currently, the facility provides the following range of flow parameters with a test section area at the nozzle exit of 76.2 × 76.2 mm: Mach number M=2 and 4, total pressure p0= 1–4 bar, stagnation temperature T0= 300–775 K, and typical duration of the steady-state flow t= 0.5–2 s. One distinct feature of the facility is the Ohmic gas heater installed in a long plenum section. Objective of this study is to characterize flow in the SBR-50 facility, specifically the dynamics of the gas temperature. Two measuring methods were applied for collection of a detailed dataset: thermocouple measurements and schlieren-based thermal mark (laser spark) velocimetry. The experimental data are compared with 3D Navier–Stokes modelling of the gas parameters over the entire flowpath. Particularly, this study proves that the original facility schematics (the concept of a virtual piston in the plenum) allow for a longer operation with a constant stagnation temperature compared to a constant plenum volume with adiabatic cooling of the stored gas.
Mixed Convection Flow over an Elastic, Porous Surface with Viscous Dissipation: A Robust Spectral Computational Approach
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Tariq Nafisa , Bhatti Muhammad Mubashir , Michaelides Efstathios E.
Published: May 2022

A novel computational approach is developed to investigate the mixed convection, boundary layer flow over a nonlinear elastic (stretching or shrinking) surface. The viscous fluid is electrically conducting, incompressible, and propagating through a porous medium. The consequences of viscous dissipation, Joule heating, and heat sink/source of the volumetric rate of heat generation are also included in the energy balance equation. In order to formulate the mathematical modeling, a similarity analysis is performed. The numerical solution of nonlinear differential equations is accomplished through the use of a robust computational approach, which is identified as the Spectral Local Linearization Method (SLLM). The computational findings reported in this study show that, in addition to being simple to establish and numerically implement, the proposed method is very reliable in that it converges rapidly to achieve a specified goal and is more effective in resolving very complex models of nonlinear boundary value problems. In order to ensure the convergence of the proposed SLLM method, the Gauss–Seidel approach is used. The SLLM’s reliability and numerical stability can be optimized even more using Gauss–Seidel approach. The computational results for different emerging parameters are computed to show the behavior of velocity profile, skin friction coefficient, temperature profile, and Nusselt number. To evaluate the accuracy and the convergence of the obtained results, a comparison between the proposed approach and the bvp4c (built-in command in Matlab) method is presented. The Matlab software, which is used to generate machine time for executing the SLLM code, is also displayed in a table.
Genetics of Hearing Impairment
Authors: Kremer Hannie , del Castillo Ignacio
Published: May 2022

The inner ear is a complex structure at the cellular and molecular levels [...]
Mutations in GHR and IGF1R Genes as a Potential Reason for the Lack of Catch-Up Growth in SGA Children
Authors: Stróżewska Weronika , Durda-Masny Magdalena , Szwed Anita
Published: May 2022

The aim of this review was to describe all of the mutations in the growth hormone receptor (GHR) and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) genes that have been discovered so far, and their possible impact on final body height, as well as their relationship with catch-up growth in children born small for gestational age (SGA). Mutations in the GHR gene were found to cause a body height below −2 SD, from the mean for sex and age, whereas the mutations in the IGF1R gene were associated with low body height and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and with being born SGA. After birth, when the child’s growth is not restricted by the intrauterine environment, the infant may develop its developmental potential and experience catch-up growth, which makes it possible to catch up with peers born appropriate for gestational age (AGA). Despite this, catch-up growth does not apply to all, but only to about 85% of SGA children, and its mechanism is unknown. It is possible that SGA children who did not experience catch-up growth are carriers of mutations in the GHR and/or IGF1R genes
A Comprehensive Review of Indel Detection Methods for Identification of Zebrafish Knockout Mutants Generated by Genome-Editing Nucleases
Authors: Carrington Blake , Bishop Kevin , Sood Raman
Published: May 2022

The use of zebrafish in functional genomics and disease modeling has become popular due to the ease of targeted mutagenesis with genome editing nucleases, i.e., zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/Cas9 (CRISPR/Cas9). These nucleases, specifically CRISPR/Cas9, are routinely used to generate gene knockout mutants by causing a double stranded break at the desired site in the target gene and selecting for frameshift insertions or deletions (indels) caused by the errors during the repair process. Thus, a variety of methods have been developed to identify fish with indels during the process of mutant generation and phenotypic analysis. These methods range from PCR and gel-based low-throughput methods to high-throughput methods requiring specific reagents and/or equipment. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of currently used indel detection methods in zebrafish. By discussing the molecular basis for each method as well as their pros and cons, we hope that this review will serve as a comprehensive resource for zebrafish researchers, allowing them to choose the most appropriate method depending upon their budget, access to required equipment and the throughput needs of the projects.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the Trehalose-6-Phosphate Synthase Gene Family in Rose (Rosa chinensis) and Differential Expression under Heat Stress
Authors: Wei Xiao-Ru , Ling Wu , Ma Yu-Wan , Du Jiao-Lin , Cao Fu-Xiang , Chen Hai-Xia , Chen Ji-Ren , Li Yu-Fan
Published: May 2022

Trehalose and some members of the trehalose 6-phosphate synthase (TPS) gene family play important roles in response to abiotic stress in plants. However, no studies investigating the TPS gene in rose have been reported. In this study, the trehalose content in the stems and roots of Rosa chinensis was significantly increased under heat stress, and nine TPS family members were identified from the genome of R. chinensis. The R. chinensis TPS (RcTPS) family members could be divided into two subfamilies based on the structure and phylogenetic analysis. In this study, we found that segmental duplications contributed to the expansion of the RcTPS gene family, and the type II subfamily gene pairs RcTPS9–RcTPS10 and RcTPS7a–RcTPS7b were created by segmental duplication events. The type I subfamily RcTPS members contained 17 exons in the protein-coding region, whereas type II subfamily members only had 3 or 4 exons. Most cis-acting elements in the promoters of RcTPS members were related to plant hormones, especially ABA hormones. A phylogenetic tree of 78 TPS homologous amino acids from R. chinensis and another 7 species was constructed, which could be divided into 5 clades, and purity selection was observed to be the dominant evolutionary selection pressure. Under heat stress, except for RcTPS1b, the other eight RcTPS members were upregulated in the roots, stems, orleaves. The type II subfamily members RcTPS7a and RcTPS7b showed significantly high expression patterns in response to heat stress in all three tissues. Our findings indicate that RcTPS7a and RcTPS7b may play important roles in the heat tolerance of R. chinensis and are helpful for future functional studies of the two RcTPS members during heat stress.
Weed Competition Effects on Growth and Yield of Spring-Sown White Lupine
Authors: Damalas Christos A. , Koutroubas Spyridon D.
Published: May 2022

White lupine (Lupinus albus L.) is an annual legume that is grown for both seeds and green biomass, but several agronomic aspects of this crop, including response to weed competition, have not been studied extensively. Field experiments over two growing seasons (2012 and 2016) were carried out in Orestiada, Greece, to study the growth and development of spring-sown white lupine under season-long weed competition from natural weed flora compared with its growth without weed competition. Treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications and included (i) a non-treated (weedy) control, where weeds (Chenopodium album and Sorghum halepense) remained in the plots throughout the experiments and (ii) a weed-free control, where weeds were removed upon crop emergence and the plots were kept free of weeds throughout the experiments by hand removal. The presence of Chenopodium album and Sorghum halepense reduced the aboveground dry matter accumulation of white lupine ‘Multitalia’ at 7 weeks after crop emergence by 18.0% in the first growing season and 29.5% in the second growing season, while the corresponding decrease in the aboveground dry matter accumulation at 9 weeks after crop emergence was 25.3 and 33.4%. However, the reduction in dry matter accumulation was limited to lower levels after flowering (9.9% in the first and 12.8% in the second growing season). In both growing seasons, values of the ability to withstand competition (AWC) index were lower at 7 and 9 weeks from crop emergence than at maturity. Seed yields were 1.58 Mg per ha under weedy conditions and 2.20 Mg per ha under weed free conditions in the first growing season, and 1.59 and 2.32 Mg per ha, respectively, in the second growing season. The values of the relative yield loss (RYL) index for seed yield were 28.2% in the first growing season and 31.5% in the second growing season. Overall, white lupine growth and seed yield was significantly affected by the occurrence of weeds mostly at the early vegetative stages, resulting in the potential yield not being achieved due to weed competition. Future research on weed competition across several sites and years would be useful to define more clearly the critical period of weed control in white lupine.
Hydrological Behavior of Karst Systems Identified by Statistical Analyses of Stable Isotope Monitoring Results
Authors: Mance Diana , Radišić Maja , Lenac Danijela , Rubinić Josip
Published: May 2022

The article presents findings of a two-year systematic study of stable isotope content in two karst groundwater resources in Primorsko-goranska county (Croatia): the Martinšćica wells (MWs) and the Dobrica spring (DBC). The temporal and spatial variation of hydrogen and oxygen isotopes is commonly studied in conjunction with hydrogeological conditions such as groundwater dynamics and discharge conditions. However, since this information was incomplete, we were forced to work with limited data and rely on analyses of stable isotope monitoring results. The obtained results show that winter precipitation is the most common recharge source for the systems, and the average residence time of water in the subsurface is less than a year. Furthermore, the MWs system is a typical dual-porosity system with dominant base flow. The results of the nonparametric regression analysis show that the possibility of seawater intrusion into the spring affecting DBC isotope content cannot be ruled out. We believe that the results presented in the paper demonstrate that when combined with statistical analyses, environmental stable isotopes are a powerful tool for gaining insights in karst hydrogeology.
Sarilumab Administration in COVID-19 Patients: Literature Review and Considerations
Authors: Marino Andrea , Munafò Antonio , Augello Egle , Bellanca Carlo Maria , Bonomo Carmelo , Ceccarelli Manuela , Musso Nicolò , Cantarella Giuseppina , Cacopardo Bruno , Bernardini Renato
Published: May 2022

Two years have passed since WHO declared a pandemic state for SARS-CoV-2 infection. COVID-19 pathogenesis consists of a first viral phase responsible for early symptoms followed by an inflammatory phase, cytokine-mediated, responsible for late-onset manifestations up to ARDS. The dysregulated immune response has an outstanding role in the progression of pulmonary damage in COVID-19. IL-6, through the induction of pro-inflammatory chemokines and cytokines, plays a key role in the development and maintenance of inflammation, acting as a pioneer of the hyperinflammatory condition and cytokine storm in severe COVID-19. Therefore, drugs targeting both IL-6 and IL-6 receptors have been evaluated in order to blunt the abnormal SARS-CoV-2-induced cytokine release. Sarilumab, a high-affinity anti-IL-6 receptor antibody, may represent a promising weapon to treat the fearsome hyperinflammatory phase by improving the outcome of patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Further prospective and well-designed clinical studies with larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are needed to assess the efficacy and the safety of this therapeutic approach to achieve improved outcomes in COVID-19.
A Comparison of Particulate Exposure Levels during Taxi, Bus, and Metro Commuting among Four Chinese Megacities
Authors: Zhang Ying , Huang Zhengdong , Huang Jiacheng
Published: May 2022

Exposure to inhalable particulate matter pollution is a hazard to human health. Many studies have examined the in-transit particulate matter pollution across multiple travel modes. However, limited information is available on the comparison of in-transit exposure among cities that experience different climates and weather patterns. This study aimed to examine the variations in in-cabin particle concentrations during taxi, bus, and metro commutes among four megacities located in the inland and coastal areas of China. To this end, we employed a portable monitoring approach to measure in-transit particle concentrations and the corresponding transit conditions using spatiotemporal information. The results highlighted significant differences in in-cabin particle concentrations among the four cities, indicating that PM concentrations varied in an ascending order of, and the ratios of different-sized particle concentrations varied in a descending order of CS, SZ, GZ, and WH. Variations in in-cabin particle concentrations during bus and metro transits between cities were mainly positively associated with urban background particle concentrations. Unlike those in bus and metro transit, in-cabin PM concentrations in taxi transit were negatively associated with urban precipitation and wind speed. The variations in particle concentrations during the trip were significantly associated with passenger density, posture, the in-cabin location of investigators, and window condition, some of which showed interactive effects. Our findings suggest that improving the urban background environment is essential for reducing particulate pollution in public transport microenvironments. Moreover, optimizing the scheduling of buses and the distribution of bus stops might contribute to mitigating the in-cabin exposure levels in transit. With reference to our methods and insights, policymakers and other researchers may further explore in-transit exposure to particle pollution in different cities.
The Influence of Maximum Squatting Strength on Jump and Sprint Performance: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of 492 Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Keiner Michael , Brauner Torsten , Kadlubowski Björn , Sander Andre , Wirth Klaus
Published: May 2022

This study aims to analyze the influence of relative strength performance, determined by parallel back squats (REL SQ), on 30 m sprinting (LS) and on jumping performance (squat [SJ], countermovement [CMJ]) in a large sample (n = 492) of elite youth soccer players. The soccer players were divided into subgroups based on their strength performance: strength level 1 (0.0–0.5 REL SQ), strength level 2 (>0.5–1.0 REL SQ), strength level 3 (>1.0 to 1.5 REL SQ), strength level 4 (>1.5 to 2.0 REL SQ), and strength level 5 (>2.0 REL SQ). The results of this study show that REL SQ explains 45–53% (r = |0.67–0.73|) of the variance of SJ, CMJ, and LS for the total sample. Strength levels 2–4 showed similar coefficients of correlation in jumping performance (r = |0.42–0.55|) and strength levels 2 and 3 in sprint performance (r = |0.41|). The respective extreme strength levels showed lower coefficients of correlation with the sprinting and jumping performance variables (r = |0.11–0.29|). No coefficients could be calculated for strength level 5 because no athlete achieved an appropriate strength level (>2.0 REL SQ). The data from this study show a clear influence of REL SQ on sprint and jump performance, even in a large sample.
Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Lavage and Biocompatible Electrical Neurostimulation, in Calcific Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy and Shoulder Pain, A Prospective Pilot Study
Authors: Pellegrino Raffaello , Di Iorio Angelo , Del Prete Cristina Maria , Barassi Giovanni , Paolucci Teresa , Tognolo Lucrezia , Fiore Pietro , Santamato Andrea
Published: May 2022

Calcific tendinopathy of the shoulder (CTS) is the most common cause of shoulder pain. Conservative treatment is considered as the first therapeutic choice for CTS. The main objective of this study was to assess the effect of US-guided needling (UGN) compared to UGN plus Biocompatible Electrical Neurostimulation (BEN) in the treatment of the CTS. Pilot, prospective, non-interventional, monocentric, and observational study of patients treated for calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy and shoulder pain. Patients’ selection, enrollment and interventions were conducted at the Chiparo Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation outpatient facility. Forty adult patients (aged 40–60 years) with a diagnosis of CTS in the acute and colliquative phase were recruited and enrolled into the study. Participants were assessed for self-perceived pain through the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and for functional limitation through the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index score (SPADI) at baseline (T0), after 15 days (T1), and after 40 days (T2). As a possible confounding factor between the two treatments’ response, the dimension of the tendon calcification was also assessed by US-examination. Through the study, both groups improved their perceived functional performance of the arm (p-value < 0.001). AT T1, the SPADI score decreased by half in both groups, and the improvement remained stable at T2. A multiplicative effect (Time × Treatment) was demonstrated (p-value < 0.001). An improvement in the NRS score was measured at T1, and it remained stable at T2, a multiplicative effect was also reported (p-value < 0.001). The main results of this pilot study provide evidence that UGN plus BEN increases functional performance and reduces shoulder pain in individuals with CTS. Moreover, the tendon calcification dimension at the baseline and the percentage of drainage of the lesion were associated with a functional performance recovery and pain reduction detected after intervention.
Comparison of Missing School Meals among Public Schools: How Did New York State Do during COVID-19?
Authors: Harb Amanda A. , Roberts Katherine J. , McCarthy Julia E. , Koch Pamela A.
Published: May 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic created barriers to participation in school meals. As a result, many students may have missed out on school meals. The objectives of this study are (1) to compare the number of school meals served by New York State public schools during the first spring and summer of the COVID-19 pandemic to the number served before the COVID-19 pandemic, and (2) to determine relationships between the number of meals served and the levels of school district need and urbanicity. Methods: This study is a secondary analysis of administrative data. The percentage change in the number of school breakfasts and lunches served was calculated for each month and by school district need level and urbanicity level. Results: The number of school meals served decreased during the first spring of the pandemic compared to the spring of the previous school year (−43% in April, −51% in May), while the number of school meals served increased during the first summer of the pandemic compared to the summer of the previous school year (+92% in July, +288% in August). Conclusions: Waivers may provide flexibility to increase participation in school meals, especially during the summer.
Mapping Mobility: Utilizing Local-Knowledge-Derived Activity Space to Estimate Exposure to Ambient Air Pollution among Individuals Experiencing Unsheltered Homelessness
Authors: MacMurdo Maeve G. , Mulloy Karen B. , Culver Daniel A. , Felix Charles W. , Curtis Andrew J. , Ajayakumar Jayakrishnan , Curtis Jacqueline
Published: May 2022

Individuals experiencing homelessness represent a growing population in the United States. Air pollution exposure among individuals experiencing homelessness has not been quantified. Utilizing local knowledge mapping, we generated activity spaces for 62 individuals experiencing homelessness residing in a semi-rural county within the United States. Satellite derived measurements of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) were utilized to estimate annual exposure to air pollution experienced by our participants, as well as differences in the variation in estimated PM2.5 at the local scale compared with stationary monitor data and point location estimates for the same period. Spatial variation in exposure to PM2.5 was detected between participants at both the point and activity space level. Among all participants, annual median PM2.5 exposure was 16.22 μg/m3, exceeding the National Air Quality Standard. Local knowledge mapping represents a novel mechanism to capture mobility patterns and investigate exposure to air pollution within vulnerable populations. Reliance on stationary monitor data to estimate air pollution exposure may lead to exposure misclassification, particularly in rural and semirural regions where monitoring is limited.
Ecosystem Health and Environmental Geography in the Belt and Road Regions
Authors: Huang Chunbo , Qin Yi , Du Xixi , He Jiawen , Fan Xin
Published: May 2022

The “Belt and Road” Initiative (BRI), i.e., the official Chinese term for the “Silk Road Economic Belt” and the “21st Century Maritime Silk Road”, was proposed to share China’s development opportunities with BRI-related countries and achieve common prosperity. Though the BRI itself conveys rich social and economic connotations, ecosystem health and the environmental problems in the Belt and Road regions are scientific issues. In this study, papers relating to the ecological issues of the BRI between January 2013 and December 2021 were collected and analyzed via CiteSpace. We found that some ecological issues were involved with the environmental challenges posed by the BRI, whereas others were, to a certain extent, subjective assumptions. Accordingly, we identified and classified the limitations and constraints of those environmental views about the BRI. By emphasizing that scientific data is key to explaining the ecological problems, we advanced four prospects for ecosystem health and environmental geography studies in the Belt and Road regions: (1) Spatial analysis and monitoring technology for the environment; (2) Clarification of the characteristics and mechanisms of the ecosystem and environments; (3) A focus on the interaction between the economy and the environment; (4) Specific and targeted strategies and solutions to different environmental problems.
Internet Addiction as a Moderator of the Relationship between Cyberhate Severity and Decisional Forgiveness
Authors: Mróz Justyna , Kaleta Kinga
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: Cyberhate is becoming increasingly prevalent, just as Internet addiction. One way to deal with hate speech may be to make a decision to forgive the offence. However, addiction to the Internet, due to cognitive changes caused, can play a role in the making of this decision. (2) Methods: A total of N = 246 participants completed the Online Cognitive Scale (OCS), Decision to Forgive Scale (DTFS), and a single-item scale to assess cyberhate severity. In our cross-sectional study, we tested the moderating role of Internet addiction in the relationship between the severity of cyberhate and decisional forgiveness. (3) Results: The results of our study show an inverse correlation between cyberhate severity and decisional forgiveness. We found that Internet addiction moderated the relationship between the perceived severity of cyberhate and forgiveness. In case of a high level of Internet addiction, the transgression severity–forgiveness link is not significant. (4) Conclusions: These results are in accordance with the studies that showed the negative effects of Internet addiction on cognitive processes.
Nicotine Dependence from Different E-Cigarette Devices and Combustible Cigarettes among US Adolescent and Young Adult Users
Authors: Lin Crystal , Gaiha Shivani Mathur , Halpern-Felsher Bonnie
Published: May 2022

E-cigarettes, the most popular tobacco product among adolescents, vary widely in design and nicotine composition; thus, different devices may have different addictive potential. However, few studies examine levels of nicotine dependence across devices among adolescent and young adult (AYA) e-cigarette users. To assess the extent of nicotine dependence among US AYA (ages 13–24) by e-cigarette device type, we conducted a large, national, cross-sectional survey (n = 4351) and used the Hooked on Nicotine Checklist (HONC) to assess levels of nicotine dependence among those who had used disposable, pod-based, and/or mods/other e-cigarette devices in the past 30 days. We also examined HONC scores among those who had used combustible cigarettes in the past 30 days, whether with or without using e-cigarettes. Patterns of nicotine dependence were comparable across those who had used a combustible cigarette and/or e-cigarette in the past 30 days, with 91.4% of combustible cigarette users, 80.7% of disposable e-cigarette users, 83.1% of pod-based e-cigarette users, and 82.5% of mods/other e-cigarette users showing signs of nicotine dependence, as measured by endorsing at least one HONC symptom. This pattern persisted when analyses were restricted to e-cigarette only users, with more than 70% of all e-cigarette only past-30-day users endorsing at least one HONC symptom, across all types of devices. A thorough understanding of the extent and presentation of nicotine dependence among AYA will help researchers, public health officials, and clinicians recognize and manage AYA nicotine dependence.
The Role of Tobacco Smoking in the Efficacy of Brief Alcohol Intervention: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Krolo Filipa , Baumann Sophie , Tiede Anika , Bischof Gallus , Krause Kristian , Meyer Christian , John Ulrich , Gaertner Beate , Freyer-Adam Jennis
Published: May 2022

This study investigated whether tobacco smoking affected outcomes of brief alcohol interventions (BAIs) in at-risk alcohol-drinking general hospital patients. Between 2011 and 2012 among patients aged 18–64 years, 961 patients were allocated to in-person counseling (PE), computer-based BAI containing computer-generated individual feedback letters (CO), and assessment only. PE and CO included contacts at baseline, 1, and 3 months. After 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, self-reported reduction of alcohol use per day was assessed as an outcome. By using latent growth curve models, self-reported smoking status, and number of cigarettes per day were tested as moderators. In PE and CO, alcohol use was reduced independently of smoking status (IRRs ≤ 0.61, ps < 0.005). At month 24, neither smoking status nor number of cigarettes per day moderated the efficacy of PE (IRR = 0.69, ps > 0.05) and CO (IRR = 0.85, ps > 0.05). Up to month 12, among persons smoking ≤ 19 cigarettes per day, the efficacy of CO increased with an increasing number of cigarettes (ps < 0.05). After 24 months, the efficacy of PE and CO that have been shown to reduce drinking did not differ by smoking status or number of cigarettes per day. Findings indicate that efficacy may differ by the number of cigarettes in the short term.
KPC-3-, GES-5-, and VIM-1-Producing Enterobacterales Isolated from Urban Ponds
Authors: Teixeira Pedro , Pinto Nuno , Henriques Isabel , Tacão Marta
Published: May 2022

Carbapenems are antibiotics of pivotal importance in human medicine, the efficacy of which is threatened by the increasing prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE). Urban ponds may be reservoirs of CRE, although this hypothesis has been poorly explored. We assessed the proportion of CRE in urban ponds over a one-year period and retrieved 23 isolates. These were submitted to BOX-PCR, PFGE, 16S rDNA sequencing, antibiotic susceptibility tests, detection of carbapenemase-encoding genes, and conjugation assays. Isolates were affiliated with Klebsiella (n = 1), Raoultella (n = 11), Citrobacter (n = 8), and Enterobacter (n = 3). Carbapenemase-encoding genes were detected in 21 isolates: blaKPC (n = 20), blaGES-5 (n = 6), and blaVIM (n = 1), with 7 isolates carrying two carbapenemase genes. Clonal isolates were collected from different ponds and in different campaigns. Citrobacter F6, Raoultella N9, and Enterobacter N10 were predicted as pathogens from whole-genome sequence analysis, which also revealed the presence of several resistance genes and mobile genetic elements. We found that blaKPC-3 was located on Tn4401b (Citrobacter F6 and Enterobacter N10) or Tn4401d (Raoultella N9). The former was part of an IncFIA-FII pBK30683-like plasmid. In addition, blaGES-5 was in a class 3 integron, either chromosomal (Raoultella N9) or plasmidic (Enterobacter N10). Our findings confirmed the role of urban ponds as reservoirs and dispersal sites for CRE.
Exposure to Food Marketing via Social Media and Obesity among University Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aljefree Najlaa M. , Alhothali Ghada Talat
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the associations between obesity and unhealthy food/drink intake with both the frequency of social media platform usage and food/drink marketing exposure on social media. Data were obtained from 316 university students aged 18–29 years at two universities in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. These participants completed online questionnaires with sections on demographics, anthropometric measurements, social media platform usage, food marketing exposure via social media, and unhealthy food consumption. All of the participants, 20.3% and 13.6% were overweight and obese, respectively. Snapchat was the most popular application (85.8%), followed by Instagram (75%), YouTube (61%), Twitter (51%), and TikTok (50%). The obese participants were more likely to purchase foods/drinks after watching relevant social media advertisements than their non-obese counterparts (p < 0.04). Moreover, those who purchased foods/drinks more frequently after watching such advertisements consumed higher amounts of potato chips (p < 0.01) and fast foods (p < 0.03). Finally, those who used Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram tended to have higher consumption rates for potato chips (p < 0.02), fast foods (p < 0.01), sweets (p < 0.02), and sugary drinks (p < 0.04). Public health policymakers in Saudi Arabia should consider regulating unhealthy food and drink advertisements on social media platforms, especially those targeted at younger generations.
STAR-VITAL, a Four Year Comprehensive Workplace Health Promotion Program: Study Design
Authors: Širok Klemen , Stubelj Mojca , Voglar Matej , Manojlović Denisa , Radoja Darinka , Laporšek Suzana , Vodopivec Matija , Arzenšek Ana , Rozman Natalija , Macur Mirna , Pesjak Katja , Perčič Simona
Published: May 2022

Background: Premature death, chronic disease, and productivity loss can be reduced with the help of programs that promote a healthy lifestyle. Workplace health promotion programs have been shown to be an efficient way of improving employee health. These can also benefit employers by improving retention, reducing worker turnover, and lowering healthcare costs. In Slovenia, a workplace health promotion program called “STAR-VITAL—Joint Measures for the Vitality of Older Workers” targeting small- and medium-sized enterprises has been ongoing since September 2017. We hypothesize that this workplace health promotion program will yield long-term health changes for the included employees and employers. Methods/Design: The manuscript presents a workplace health promotion program design that introduces some novel approaches and solutions to workplace health promotion program implementation. It also introduces a measurement of their effects that address the problem of low participation rates and the effectiveness of workplace health promotion programs, as follows: (1) the multifaceted and individualised approach to implementation, (2) customer relationship management (CRM) -based interaction management with program participants, and (3) impact evaluation based on employee health and labour market data observing both intermediate outcomes and the final outcomes based on national micro administrative data. Discussion: Although the novel approaches introduced with the STAR-VITAL program proved to be effective during the COVID-19 pandemic, they deserve the attention of scholars and practitioners. Further research is called for to further explore the potential of CRM in health promotion contexts, the effectiveness of multifaceted and individualised workplace health promotion program interventions, and micro administrative data-based impact evaluations. Conclusions: The STAR-VITAL program introduces several new approaches addressing the problem of low participation rates and the effectiveness of WHPPs. Further research is called for to discover and explore the potential of those novel approaches.
Editorial: New Training Strategies and Evaluation Methods for Improving Health and Physical Performance
Authors: Matias Catarina N. , Toselli Stefania , Monteiro Cristina P. , Campa Francesco
Published: May 2022

Physical activity is among the most effective methods for improving health, body composition, and physical function, and its practice is suitable for every population [...]
Effectiveness of App-Based Intervention to Improve Health Status of Sedentary Middle-Aged Males and Females
Authors: Martínez-Olcina María , Cuestas-Calero Bernardo José , Miralles-Amorós Laura , Vicente-Martínez Manuel , Sánchez-Sánchez Javier
Published: May 2022

Background: Adherence to a nutritional program and physical activity are the fundamental aspects of treatment for weight loss and associated problems. Previous research has shown that self-monitoring using a mobile device improves self-management. Methods: A total of 35 subjects (40.6 ± 9.24 years) participated in the study. During the control period (3 months), they received physical exercise guidelines and a personalized nutritional program, with the aim of promoting health status. In the experimental period (3 months), there was also a connection between the physical world (health care processes) and the digital world (app). All participants had their body composition and cardiovascular variables measured. They also underwent calcaneal densitometry to determine bone quality. Descriptive statistics, correlations and analysis of variance were performed (by a researcher who was not involved in the data collection) to study the changes between before and after interventions, as well as to make a comparison between treatments. Results: The use of an app, in which there exist a prediction of the evolution, messages of results and advice, among others, mediated by the assistance of dietitians/nutritionists and sports scientists, had a positive impact on the improvement of health parameters, showing significant differences in all variables except troponin. Conclusions: The combination of healthy habits with the use of the app provided benefits, improving health.