bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitors of the Plasmodium falciparum Hsp90 towards Selective Antimalarial Drug Design: The Past, Present and Future
Authors: Stofberg Melissa Louise , Caillet Celine , de Villiers Marianne , Zininga Tawanda
Published: October 2021

Malaria is still one of the major killer parasitic diseases in tropical settings, posing a public health threat. The development of antimalarial drug resistance is reversing the gains made in attempts to control the disease. The parasite leads a complex life cycle that has adapted to outwit almost all known antimalarial drugs to date, including the first line of treatment, artesunate. There is a high unmet need to develop new strategies and identify novel therapeutics to reverse antimalarial drug resistance development. Among the strategies, here we focus and discuss the merits of the development of antimalarials targeting the Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) due to the central role it plays in protein quality control.
A Taguchi Approach for Optimizing Design Mixture of Geopolymer Concrete Incorporating Fly Ash, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag and Silica Fume
Authors: Karthik Sundaravadivelu , Mohan Kaliyaperumal Saravana Raja
Published: October 2021

In recent decades, geopolymer concrete (GPC) has been extensively researched as a potential substitute sustainable building material that may reduce CO2 emissions due to its utilization of industrial by-products. Fly ash (FA) and ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS) are preferred geopolymer raw materials due to their obtainability and high alumina and silica concentrations. GGBFS-FA based GPC offers a clean and sustainable development technology alternative. In this study, the Taguchi method was used to optimize the mixed proportions of geopolymer concrete to achieve desired strength criteria. Four factors and four levels were considered: binder content, including four combinations of FA and GGFBS dosage, dosage of superplasticizer (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2%), Na2SiO3/NaOH ratio (1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3), and molarity (6, 8, 10 and 12). Using these ingredients and factors, the effect of compressive strength was examined. The Taguchi approach using an L16 orthogonal array was employed to find the optimum condition of every factor while limiting the number of experiments. The findings indicated that the optimum synthesis conditions for maximum compressive strength obtained from the binder comprised 45% of FA, 45% of GGBFS and 10% of silica fume, 1.5% dosage of superplasticizer, Na2SiO3/NaOH ratio = 1.5, and 12 molar contents.
A Natural Colonisation of Asia: Phylogenomic and Biogeographic History of Coin Spiders (Araneae: Nephilidae: Herennia)
Authors: Turk Eva , Bond Jason E. , Cheng Ren-Chung , Čandek Klemen , Hamilton Chris A. , Gregorič Matjaž , Kralj-Fišer Simona , Kuntner Matjaž
Published: October 2021

Reconstructing biogeographic history is challenging when dispersal biology of studied species is poorly understood, and they have undergone a complex geological past. Here, we reconstruct the origin and subsequent dispersal of coin spiders (Nephilidae: Herennia Thorell), a clade of 14 species inhabiting tropical Asia and Australasia. Specifically, we test whether the all-Asian range of Herennia multipuncta is natural vs. anthropogenic. We combine Anchored Hybrid Enrichment phylogenomic and classical marker phylogenetic data to infer species and population phylogenies. Our biogeographical analyses follow two alternative dispersal models: ballooning vs. walking. Following these assumptions and considering measured distances between geographical areas through temporal intervals, these models infer ancestral areas based on varying dispersal probabilities through geological time. We recover a wide ancestral range of Herennia including Australia, mainland SE Asia and the Philippines. Both models agree that H. multipuncta internal splits are generally too old to be influenced by humans, thereby implying its natural colonisation of Asia, but suggest quite different colonisation routes of H. multipuncta populations. The results of the ballooning model are more parsimonious as they invoke fewer chance dispersals over large distances. We speculate that coin spiders’ ancestor may have lost the ability to balloon, but that H. multipuncta regained it, thereby colonising and maintaining larger areas.
Development of Quantitative Rapid Isothermal Amplification Assay for Leishmania donovani
Authors: Khan Md Anik Ashfaq , Faisal Khaledul , Chowdhury Rajashree , Ghosh Prakash , Hossain Faria , Weidmann Manfred , Mondal Dinesh , Abd El Wahed Ahmed
Published: October 2021

Quantification of pathogen load, although challenging, is of paramount importance for accurate diagnosis and clinical management of a range of infectious diseases in a point-of-need testing (PONT) scenario such as in resource-limited settings. We formulated a quantification approach to test the standard-curve based absolute quantification ability of isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay. As a test of principle, a 10-fold dilution series of Leishmania donovani (LD) genomic DNA prepared in nuclease-free-water (NFW), and from culture-spiked-blood (CSB) were tested, and a 15 min assay was performed. A modified algorithm was formulated to derive the detection outcome. The threshold-record times (Tr) in seconds thus obtained were plotted against the initial load of parasite genomes for log-linear regression analysis. The quantitative RPA (Q-RPA) assay was further evaluated against a LD quantitative (q)-PCR assay with DNA extracted from visceral and post-Kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis case specimens and stratified into different ranges of threshold cycle (Ct). The best-fitted regression models were found linear with mean r2/root mean square error (RMSE) values of residual points (in seconds) estimated as 0.996/8.063 and 0.992/7.46 for replicated series of NFW and CSB, respectively. In both series, the lower limit of detection reached less than 0.1 parasite genome equivalent DNA. Absolute agreement between Q-RPA and LD-qPCR was found for test positivity, and strong positive correlations were observed between the Tr and Ct values (r = 0.89; p < 0.0001) as well as between the absolute parasite loads (r = 0.87; p < 0.0001) quantified by respective assays. The findings in this very first Q-RPA assay for leishmaniasis are suggestive of its potential in monitoring LD load in clinical specimens, and the development of rapid Q-RPA assays for other infectious diseases.
Administrative Perceptions Regarding Supervision of Online Teaching and Learning
Authors: Schwanenberger Michael , Dereshiwsky Mary , Sujo-Montes Laura
Published: October 2021

Deans, associate deans, and department chairs in higher education institutions manage not only their departments’ course offerings but also faculty and students who teach and learn both in person and online. Possessing a good understanding of how to plan, supervise, and evaluate online degree programs for maximum efficiency, optimum student learning, and optimum faculty support is imperative for these professionals. The purpose of this study was to investigate administrators’ perceptions, attitudes, and experiences managing various online learning environments. A basic qualitative research design was applied to this study. Current and former administrators were invited to participate in individual in-depth interviews that were transcribed and analyzed for emerging themes. Results indicated that administrators need multiple levels of support, including supervisor’s support as well as instructional and technology support, among others. It is concluded that administrators find themselves in “a continuum” in terms of the need for different types of support. Implications for further research are discussed.
A Multiphysics System-to-Cell Framework to Assess the Impact of Operating Conditions of Standalone PV Systems on Lithium-Ion Battery Lifetime
Authors: Golzar Farzin , Astaneh Majid , Ghorbanzadeh Milad
Published: October 2021

This paper proposes a multiphysics simulation structure for predicting Li-ion batteries’ useful life by consolidating battery cell electrochemical and thermal-aging models into the electrical domain of PV-battery standalone systems. This model can consider the effect of operating conditions at the system level, such as charge/discharge patterns and energy management strategies, to evaluate battery capacity fade at the cell level. The proposed model is validated using experimental observations with a RRMSE of 1.1%. Results show that the operating conditions of the battery bank affect its lifetime significantly. A wide range of 2.7 to 12.5 years of battery lifetime is predicted by applying the model to different case studies. In addition, the model predicts that managing the maximum cell state of charge level can enhance the battery bank lifetime by 60%. The developed model is a generic multiscale decision-making framework to investigate the effect of operating conditions on battery service life.
Research on Optimal Torque Control of Turning Energy Consumption for EVs with Motorized Wheels
Authors: Sun Wen , Rong Juncai , Wang Junnian , Zhang Wentong , Zhou Zidong
Published: October 2021

This paper aims to explore torque optimization control issue in the turning of EV (Electric Vehicles) with motorized wheels for reducing energy consumption in this process. A three-degree-of-freedom (3-DOF) vehicle dynamics model is used to analyze the total longitudinal force of the vehicle and explain the influence of torque vectoring distribution (TVD) on turning resistance. The Genetic Algorithm-Particle Swarm Optimization Hybrid Algorithm (GA-PSO) is used to optimize the torque distribution coefficient offline. Then, a torque optimization control strategy for obtaining minimum turning energy consumption online and a torque distribution coefficient (TDC) table in different cornering conditions are proposed, with the consideration of vehicle stability and possible maximum energy-saving contribution. Furthermore, given the operation points of the in-wheel motors, a more accurate TDC table is developed, which includes motor efficiency in the optimization process. Various simulation results showed that the proposed torque optimization control strategy can reduce the energy consumption in cornering by about 4% for constant motor efficiency ideally and 19% when considering the motor efficiency changes in reality.
Comparing LSTM and GRU Models to Predict the Condition of a Pulp Paper Press
Authors: Mateus Balduíno César , Mendes Mateus , Farinha José Torres , Assis Rui , Cardoso António Marques
Published: October 2021

The accuracy of a predictive system is critical for predictive maintenance and to support the right decisions at the right times. Statistical models, such as ARIMA and SARIMA, are unable to describe the stochastic nature of the data. Neural networks, such as long short-term memory (LSTM) and the gated recurrent unit (GRU), are good predictors for univariate and multivariate data. The present paper describes a case study where the performances of long short-term memory and gated recurrent units are compared, based on different hyperparameters. In general, gated recurrent units exhibit better performance, based on a case study on pulp paper presses. The final result demonstrates that, to maximize the equipment availability, gated recurrent units, as demonstrated in the paper, are the best options.
Mathematical Analysis and Update of ADM1 Model for Biomethane Production by Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Bertacchi Stefano , Ruusunen Mika , Sorsa Aki , Sirviö Anu , Branduardi Paola
Published: October 2021

Biomethane is a renewable product that can directly substitute its fossil counterpart, although its synthesis from residual biomasses has some hurdles. Because of the complex nature of both biomasses and the microbial consortia involved, innovative approaches such as mathematical modeling can be deployed to support possible improvements. The goal of this study is two-fold, as we aimed to modify a part of the Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1 (ADM1), describing biomethane production from activated sludge, matching with its actual microbial nature, and to use the model for identifying relevant parameters to improve biomethane production. Firstly, thermodynamic analysis was performed, highlighting the direct route from glucose to biomethane as the most favorable. Then, by using MATLAB® and Simulink Toolbox, we discovered that the model fails to predict the microbiological behavior of the system. The structure of the ADM1 model was then modified by adding substrate consumption yields in equations describing microbial growth, to better reflect the consortium behavior. The updated model was tested by modifying several parameters: the coefficient of decomposition was identified to increase biomethane production. Approaching mathematical models from a microbiological point of view can lead to further improvement of the models themselves. Furthermore, this work represents additional evidence of the importance of informatics tools, such as bioprocess simulations to foster biomethane role in bioeconomy.
Characterization of Novel Lactobacillus paracasei HY7017 Capable of Improving Physiological Properties and Immune Enhancing Effects Using Red Ginseng Extract
Authors: Mo Sung-Joon , Nam Bora , Bae Chu-Hyun , Park Soo-Dong , Shim Jae-Jung , Lee Jung-Lyoul
Published: October 2021

Red ginseng has powerful potential for use as a prebiotic, but its use is limited due to its antibacterial activity. The aim of this study is to present panax ginseng’s endophytic lactic acid bacteria capable to overcome the antibacterial activity of red ginseng and improve their characteristic. Lactobacillus paracasei HY7017 (HY7017) was cultured in a medium supplemented with red ginseng. The probiotic properties and immune-enhancing effects of HY7017 were investigated in vitro and in vivo. HY7017 was proliferated strongly in RGE and had significantly improved properties compared with an L. paracasei type strain ATCC25302. HY7017 cultured in RGE-supplemented medium increased the production of nitric oxide, TNF-α, and IL-6 in macrophages, and increased IL-12 and IFN-γ secretion in splenocytes. Furthermore, HY7017 restored WBC counts, increased the amount of IL-2 and IFN-γ released, and enhanced the cytotoxicity of natural killer cells when orally administered to immunosuppressed mice. Moreover, HY7017 has properties that make it suitable as a probiotic, such as stability in the gastrointestinal tract and adhesion to Caco-2 cells. This study showed that HY7017 cultured with RGE may contribute to the development of probiotics to enhance immunity.
Nutrient Content of Micro/Baby-Green and Field-Grown Mature Foliage of Tropical Spinach (Amaranthus sp.) and Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)
Authors: Ayeni Albert
Published: October 2021

Micro/baby-greens are gaining popularity in human diets as functional foods that deliver superior nutritional values and health benefits to consumers. This study conducted multiple times between 2017 and 2019 under greenhouse conditions and in the field at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA, showed that micro/baby-greens from tropical spinach (Amaranthus sp.) and roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) are rich in digestible carbohydrates, digestible protein, and dietary fiber. On dry weight basis, both vegetables have high relative percentages of P, K, and Mg; and relatively high ppm Fe, Mn, and Zn. Foliage tissues of both species are relatively low in total fat, Ca, and Cu. Between 10 and 20 days after sowing (DAS), percent digestible carbohydrates in fresh foliar tissue increased 100% in tropical spinach and 50% in roselle, while digestible protein dropped 21% in tropical spinach and 50% in roselle. Compared to field grown mature foliage, greenhouse-grown micro/baby-greens were lower in digestible carbohydrates and Ca but higher in digestible protein, P, K, Mg, Fe, Mn, and Zn.
Effects on Growth and Metabolism of Difference between Day and Night Temperatures (DIF) and Supplementation with Rare Earth Elements (REE) in Micropropagated Dendrobium aphyllum (Roxb.) C. E. Fischer
Authors: Liu Boling , Tang Lijun , Gao Bowen , Jeong Byoung Ryong , Deng Shijun , Wei Hao
Published: October 2021

Dendrobium aphyllum (Roxb.) C. E. Fischer is an ornamental plant with certain medicinal values from the Orchidaceae family. Currently, micropropagation is the main means through which it is propagated. In this research, the effects of different daytime and nighttime temperatures (DIF) and medium supplementation with rare earth elements (REE) on the growth and metabolism of D. aphyllum during a micropropagation period were investigated. Three kinds of REE nitrates, La(NO₃)₃, Ce(NO₃)₃ and Nd(NO₃)₃, at four concentrations, 50, 100, 150, and 200 μM, were added to the culture medium. Three DIFs, 0, 6 and 12 °C, with an identical mean daily temperature of 20 °C, were used with photoperiod/dark period temperatures of 20/20 °C, 23/17 °C and 26/14 °C, respectively. After four weeks of culture, both supplemental REE and DIF treatments promoted growth of the plant compared with the control group. With increased REE concentration and DIF, the growth of the plants was suppressed and symptoms of stress response occurred. At the same concentration, Ce(NO₃)₃ had a more significant promotional effect on plant growth. In general, the medium supplemented with 100 μM Ce(NO₃)₃ combined with a 6 °C DIF was the most optimal for the vegetative growth of the plant. A 12 °C DIF promoted synthesis of more primary metabolites such as total proteins and polysaccharides. From the perspective of improving the medicinal values of this plant, increasing the DIF for an optimal growth environment is a valuable reference. This study can provide a technical basis for the propagation and production of Dendrobium aphyllum in the future.
Understanding Rural Women’s Domestic Work Experiences (DWE) in Ibadan, Nigeria: Development of a Measurement Tool Using Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Osinuga Abisola , Janssen Brandi , Fethke Nathan B , Story William T , Imaledo John A , Baker Kelly K
Published: October 2021

Gender norms prescribe domestic labor as primarily a female’s responsibility in developing countries. Many domestic tasks depend on access to water, so the physical, emotional, and time demands of domestic labor may be exacerbated for women living in water-insecure environments. We developed a set of domestic work experience (DWE) measures tailored to work in rural areas in developing countries, assessed rural Nigerian women’s DWE, and examined relationships among the measures. Interviewer-administered survey data were collected between August and September from 256 women in four rural Nigerian communities. Latent factors of DWE were identified by analyzing survey items using confirmatory factor analysis. Pearson’s correlation was used to examine relationships among latent factor scores, and multivariate linear regression models were used to determine if factor scores significantly differed across socio-demographic characteristics. The DWE measures consisted of latent factors of the physical domain (frequency of common domestic tasks, water sourcing and carriage, experience of water scarcity), the psychosocial domain (stress appraisal and demand–control), and the social domain (social support). Significant correlations were observed among the latent factors within and across domains. Results revealed the importance of measuring rural Nigerian women’s DWE using multiple and contextual approaches rather than relying solely on one exposure measure. Multiple inter-related factors contributed to women’s DWE. Water insecurity exacerbated the physical and emotional demands of domestic labor DWE varied across age categories and pregnancy status among rural Nigerian women.
The Link between Landscape Characteristics and Soil Losses Rates over a Range of Spatiotemporal Scales: Hubei Province, China
Authors: Li Qing , Zhou Yong , Wang Li , Zuo Qian , Yi Siqi , Liu Jingyi , Su Xueping , Xu Tao , Jiang Yan
Published: October 2021

Controlling soil erosion is beneficial to the conservation of soil resources and ecological restoration. Understanding the spatial distribution characteristics of soil erosion helps find the key areas for soil control projects and optimal scale for investing in a soil and water conservation project at the lowest cost. This study aims to answer the question of how the spatial distribution of soil erosion in Hubei Province changed between 2000 and 2020. Moreover, how do the effects of natural factors and human activities on soil erosion vary over the years? What are the differences in landscape pattern characteristics and the spatial cluster of soil erosion at multiple administrative scales? We simulated the spatial distribution of soil erosion in Hubei province from 2000 to 2020 by the Chinese Soil Loss Equation model at three administrative scales. We investigated the relationship between soil erosion and driving factors by Geodector. We explored the landscape pattern and hotspots of land at different levels of soil erosion by Fragstat and hotspot analysis. The results show that: (1) The average soil erosion rate decreased from 2000 to 2020. Soil erosion is severe in the mountainous areas of western Hubei province, while it is less severe in the central plains. (2) Land-cover type, precipitation, and normalized difference vegetation index are the most influencing factors of soil erosion in 2000–2010, 2015, and 2020, respectively. (3) The aggregation index values at the town scale are higher than those at the city and county scales, while the fractal dimension index values at the town scale are lower, which indicates that soil erosion projects are most efficient when the project unit is ‘town’. (4) At the town scale, if the hotspot area (6.84% of the total area) is treated as the protection target, it can reduce 50.42% of the total soil erosion of Hubei province. Hotspots of soil erosion overlap with high erosion zones, mainly in the northwestern, northeastern, and southwestern parts of Hubei province in 2000, while the hotspots in northwestern Hubei disappear in 2020. In conclusion, land managers in Hubei should optimize the land-use structure, soil and water conservation in slope land, and eco-engineering controls at the town scale.
Does Irrigation with Treated and Untreated Wastewater Increase Antimicrobial Resistance in Soil and Water: A Systematic Review
Authors: Slobodiuk Stacy , Niven Caitlin , Arthur Greer , Thakur Siddhartha , Ercumen Ayse
Published: October 2021

Population growth and water scarcity necessitate alternative agriculture practices, such as reusing wastewater for irrigation. Domestic wastewater has been used for irrigation for centuries in many historically low-income and arid countries and is becoming more widely used by high-income countries to augment water resources in an increasingly dry climate. Wastewater treatment processes are not fully effective in removing all contaminants, such as antimicrobial resistant bacteria (ARB) and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). Literature reviews on the impact of wastewater irrigation on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the environment have been inconclusive and mostly focused on treated wastewater. We conducted the first systematic review to assess the impact of irrigation with both treated or untreated domestic wastewater on ARB and ARGs in soil and adjacent water bodies. We screened titles/abstracts of 3002 articles, out of which 41 were screened in full text and 26 were included in this review. Of these, thirteen investigated irrigation with untreated wastewater, and nine found a positive association with ARB/ARGs in soil. Out of thirteen studies focused on treated wastewater, six found a positive association with ARB/ARGs while six found mixed/negative associations. Our findings demonstrate that irrigation with untreated wastewater increases AMR in soil and call for precautionary action by field workers, their families, and consumers when untreated wastewater is used to irrigate crops. The effect of irrigation with treated wastewater was more variable among the studies included in our review, highlighting the need to better understand to what extent AMR is disseminated through this practice. Future research should assess factors that modify the effect of wastewater irrigation on AMR in soil, such as the degree and type of wastewater treatment, and the duration and intensity of irrigation, to inform guidelines on the reuse of wastewater for irrigation.
Shock Index as a Predictor for Angiographic Hemostasis in Life-Threatening Traumatic Oronasal Bleeding
Authors: Hsu Fang-Yu , Mao Shih-Hsuan , Chuang Andy Deng-Chi , Wong Yon-Cheong , Chen Chih-Hao
Published: October 2021

The objective of this retrospective study was to identify predictors of angiographic hemostasis among patients with life-threatening traumatic oronasal bleeding (ONB) and determine the threshold for timely referral or intervention. The diagnosis of traumatic, life-threatening ONB was made if the patient suffered from craniofacial trauma presenting at triage with unstable hemodynamics or required a definitive airway due to ONB, without other major bleeding identified. There were 4404 craniofacial trauma patients between January 2015 and December 2019, of which 72 (1.6%) fulfilled the diagnosis of traumatic life-threatening ONB. Of these patients, 39 (54.2%) received trans-arterial embolization (TAE), 11 (15.3%) were treated with other methods, and 22 (30.5%) were excluded. Motor vehicle accidents were the most common cause of life-threatening ONB (52%), and the internal maxillary artery was the most commonly identified hemorrhaging artery requiring embolization (84%). Shock index (SI) was significantly higher in the angiographic hemostasis group (p < 0.001). The AUC-ROC was 0.87 (95% CI, 0.88–1.00) for SI to predict angiographic hemostasis. Early recognition and timely intervention are crucial in post-traumatic, life-threatening ONB management. Patients initially presenting with SI > 0.95 were more likely to receive TAE, with the TAE group having statistically higher SI than the non-TAE group whilst receiving significantly more packed red blood cells. Hence, for patients presenting with life-threatening traumatic ONB and a SI > 0.95, TAE should be considered if preliminary attempts at hemostasis have failed.
Spatiotemporal Variation in Rainfall Erosivity and Correlation with the ENSO on the Tibetan Plateau since 1971
Authors: Cui Bohao , Zhang Yili , Liu Linshan , Xu Zehua , Wang Zhaofeng , Gu Changjun , Wei Bo , Gong Dianqing
Published: October 2021

Soil erosion is a serious ecological problem in the fragile ecological environment of the Tibetan Plateau (TP). Rainfall erosivity is one of the most important factors controlling soil erosion and is associated with the El Niño southern oscillation (ENSO). However, there is a lack of studies related to the spatial distribution and temporal trends of rainfall erosivity on the TP as a whole. Additionally, the understanding of the general influence of ENSO on rainfall erosivity across the TP remains to be developed. In this study, long-term (1971–2020) daily precipitation data from 91 meteorological stations were selected to calculate rainfall erosivity. The analysis combines co-kriging interpolation, Sen’s slope estimator, and the Mann–Kendall trend test to investigate the spatiotemporal patten of rainfall erosivity across the TP. The Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) and multivariate ENSO Index (MEI) were chosen as ENSO phenomenon characterization indices, and the relationship between ENSO and rainfall erosivity was explored by employing a continuous wavelet transform. The results showed that an increasing trend in annual rainfall erosivity was detected on the TP from 1971 to 2020. The seasonal and monthly rainfall erosivity was highly uneven, with the summer erosivity accounting for 60.36%. The heterogeneous spatial distribution of rainfall erosivity was observed with an increasing trend from southeast to northwest. At the regional level, rainfall erosivity in the southeastern TP was mainly featured by a slow increase, while in the northwest was more destabilizing and mostly showed no significant trend. The rainfall erosivity on the whole TP was relatively high during non-ENSO periods and relatively low during El Niño/La Niña periods. It is worth noting that rainfall erosivity in the northwest TP appears to be more serious during the La Niña event. Furthermore, there were obvious resonance cycles between the rainfall erosivity and ENSO in different regions of the plateau, but the cycles had pronounced discrepancies in the occurrence time, direction of action and intensity. These findings contribute to providing references for soil erosion control on the TP and the formulation of future soil conservation strategies.
Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Programming in Schools to Support Student’s Health-Related Fitness: An Observational Study
Authors: Walker Timothy J. , Craig Derek W. , Pavlovic Andjelka , Thiele Shelby , Natale Breanna , Szeszulski Jacob , DeFina Laura F. , Kohl Harold W.
Published: October 2021

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines recommend schools use a coordinated health approach to support healthy eating and physical activity. This study examines whether the number of healthy eating and physical activity programs and activities used by schools and their perceived success relate to students’ health-related fitness. This observational study used data from the Healthy Zone Schools Program. Data (collected in 2017–2019) were integrated from three sources: (1) school surveys, (2) FitnessGram®, and (3) the Texas Education Agency. Independent variables were the number of health promotion programs and activities and their perceived success; dependent variables were meeting Healthy Fitness Zone Standards (HFZ) for aerobic capacity and body mass index (BMI). We used mixed-effects logistic regression models. Fifty-six schools were in the analytic sample (n = 15,096 students with aerobic capacity data and n = 19,969 with BMI data). Results indicated the perceived success of physical activity programs/activities was significantly associated with students meeting HFZ standards for aerobic capacity (OR = 1.32, CI = 1.06–1.63). There was a significant direct association between the number of physical activity and healthy eating activities implemented (OR = 1.04, CI = 1.01–1.06) and students meeting HFZ for BMI. Schools using multiple health programs and activities need to balance the number provided with their capacity to maintain success.
Analysis of the LNAPL Migration Process in the Vadose Zone under Two Different Media Conditions
Authors: Zuo Rui , Zhao Xiao , Yang Jie , Pan Minghao , Xue Zhenkun , Gao Xiang , Wang Jinsheng , Teng Yanguo
Published: October 2021

This study focused on the processes of free infiltration, precipitation displacement, and natural attenuation of the LNAPL under the condition of near-surface leakage. Sandbox experiments were performed to explore the migration characteristics of LNAPL in the vadose zone with two media structures and the influences of the soil interface on the migration of LNAPL. The results indicate that the vertical migration velocity of the LNAPL infiltration front in medium and coarse sand was 1 order of magnitude higher than that in fine sand and that the LNAPL accumulated at the coarse–fine interface, which acted as the capillary barrier. Displacement of precipitation for LNAPL had little relationship with rainfall intensity and was obviously affected by medium particle size, where coarse sand (40.78%) > medium sand (20.5%) > fine sand (10%). The natural attenuation rate of the LNAPL in the vadose zone was related to the water content of the media; the natural attenuation rate of fine sand was higher. This study simulated the process of the LNAPL leakage from the near surface into the layered heterogeneous stratum, improved the understanding of the migration of the LNAPL under different stratum conditions, and can provide support for the treatment of LNAPL leakage events in the actual site.
Risk of Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection in Patients with Tuberculosis: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Ming-Tsung , Chung Chi-Hsiang , Ke Hung-Yen , Peng Chung-Kan , Chien Wu-Chien , Shen Chih-Hao
Published: October 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) can cause chronic inflammation. The occurrence of aortic aneurysm (AA) and aortic dissection (AD) may be associated with chronic inflammatory disease, but whether TB increases the risk of AA and AD remains to be determined. This study aimed to investigate the association between TB and the development of AA and AD. We conducted a population-based cohort study using data obtained from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database. We selected 31,220 individuals with TB and 62,440 individuals without TB by matching the cohorts according to age, sex, and index year at a ratio of 1:2. Cox regression analysis revealed that the TB cohort had a 1.711-fold higher risk of AA and AD than the non-TB cohort after adjustment for sex, age, socioeconomic status, and comorbidities (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.711; 95% confidence interval = 1.098–2.666). Patients with pulmonary, extrapulmonary, and miliary TB had a 1.561-, 1.892-, and 8.334-fold higher risk of AA and AD, respectively. Furthermore, patients with TB at <6 months, 6–12 months, and 1–5 years of follow-up had a 6.896-, 2.671-, and 2.371-fold risk of AA and AD, respectively. Physicians should consider the subsequent development of AA and AD while treating patients with TB.
Longitudinal Impact of Depressive Symptoms and Peer Tobacco Use on the Number of Tobacco Products Used by Young Adults
Authors: North Caroline , Marti C. Nathan , Loukas Alexandra
Published: October 2021

We examined the role of depressive symptoms in the longitudinal trajectory of the number of tobacco products used across young adulthood, ages 18–30 years, and whether peer tobacco use exacerbated the effects of the depressive symptoms. Participants were 4534 initially 18–25-year-old young adults in the Marketing and Promotions Across Colleges in Texas project (Project M-PACT), which collected data across a 4.5-year period from 2014 to 2019. Growth curve modeling within an accelerated design was used to test study hypotheses. Elevated depressive symptoms were associated with a greater number of tobacco products used concurrently and at least six months later. The number of tobacco-using peers moderated the association between depressive symptoms and the number of tobacco products trajectory. Young adults with elevated depressive symptoms used a greater number of tobacco products but only when they had a greater number of tobacco-using peers. Findings indicate that not all young adults with depressive symptoms use tobacco. Having a greater number of tobacco-using peers may facilitate a context that both models and encourages tobacco use. Therefore, tobacco prevention programs should aim to include peer components, especially for young adults.
Meta-Analysis of the Association between Asbestos Exposure and Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Wu Chih-Wei , Chuang Hung-Yi , Tsai Dong-Lin , Kuo Tzu-Yu , Yang Chen-Cheng , Chen Huang-Chi , Kuo Chao-Hung
Published: October 2021

Background: We conducted a meta-analysis to quantitatively assess the association between asbestos exposure and esophageal cancer. Methods: We systematically collected articles from three electronic databases and calculated the pooled standardized mortality rate (SMR) from the meta-analysis. Subgroup analysis according to the type of asbestos exposure, follow-up years, sample size, industry classification, sex, and high-dose exposure was conducted. Results: From 242 studies, 34 cohort studies were included in our meta-analysis. Pooled SMR was positively associated with asbestos exposure and esophageal cancer (pooled SMR = 1.28; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.19–1.38, p < 0.00001). In the subgroup analysis, (1) chrysolite, (2) four groups with follow-up over ten years, (3) the textile industry and shipyard, (4) both male and female, and (5) eight studies on highest asbestos exposure, all the subgroups showed significantly increased pooled SMRs. Conclusion: Asbestos exposure was significantly and positively associated with esophageal cancer, especially chrysolite. Considering the long latency period, we suggest that patients should be followed up for cancer, including esophageal cancer, for over ten years.
The Fire and Explosion Hazard of Coloured Powders Used during the Holi Festival
Authors: Kukfisz Bożena , Piec Robert
Published: October 2021

During the world-famous Holi festival, people throw and smear each other with a colored powder (Holi color, Holi powder, Gulal powder). Until now, adverse health and environmental effects (skin and eye irritation, air pollution, and respiratory problems) have been described in the available literature. However, the literature lacks data on the flammable and explosive properties of these powders during mass events, despite the fact that burns, fires, and explosions during the Holi festival have taken place many times. The aim of the article is to present the fire and explosion parameters of three currently used Holi dust and cornflour dust types as reference dust. The minimum ignition temperature of the dust layer and dust cloud, the maximum explosion pressure and its maximum rate of growth over time, the lower explosion limit, the limit of oxygen concentration, and the minimum ignition energy were determined. Tests confirmed that the currently available Holi powders should be classified as flammable dusts and low-explosive dusts. The likelihood of a fire or explosion during mass incidents involving a Holi dust-air mixture is high.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Safety of the BNT162b2 COVID-19 Vaccine in the Vaccination Campaign among the Health Workers of Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS
Authors: Pascucci Domenico , Nurchis Mario Cesare , Sapienza Martina , Castrini Francesco , Beccia Flavia , D’Ambrosio Floriana , Grossi Adriano , Castagna Carolina , Pezzullo Angelo Maria , Zega Maurizio , Staiti Domenico , De Simone Francesco Maria , Mores Nadia , Cambieri Andrea , Vetrugno Giuseppe , Damiani Gianfranco , Laurenti Patrizia
Published: October 2021

Health workers, especially those in patient-facing roles, had a significantly increased risk of COVID-19 infection, having serious outcomes, and risking spreading the virus to patients and staff. Vaccination campaign planning suggests allocating initial supplies of BNT162b2 vaccine to health workers given the importance of early protection to safeguard the continuity of care to patients. The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness and safety of BNT162b2 vaccine among the health workers of Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS (FPG). The retrospective cohort study was conducted among health staff working at the FPG. Vaccination data were collected from hospital records. The primary end points were vaccine effectiveness and safety. A total of 6649 health workers were included, of whom 5162 received injections. There were 14 cases of COVID-19 with onset at least 14 days after the second dose among vaccinated health workers and 45 cases among unvaccinated ones. BNT162b2 was 91.5% effective against COVID-19 (95% credible interval, 84.7% to 95.3%). The safety profile of BNT162b2 vaccine consisted of short-term, non-serious events. The promotion and boost of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign represents a key public health measure useful to curb the spread of the pandemic especially in vulnerable contexts, such as hospitals, where health workers carry out a paramount role for the entire community, and requires further protection with a possible booster dose in view of autumn-winter 2021.
Adverse Collateral Effects of COVID-19 Public Health Restrictions on Physical Fitness and Cognitive Performance in Primary School Children
Authors: Chambonnière Camille , Fearnbach Nicole , Pelissier Léna , Genin Pauline , Fillon Alicia , Boscaro Audrey , Bonjean Line , Bailly Mélina , Siroux Julie , Guirado Terry , Pereira Bruno , Thivel David , Duclos Martine
Published: October 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the COVID-19-related confinement and social restrictions affected the levels of physical fitness and academic achievement in primary school French children. A total of 206 primary school children (106 before confinements and 100 after restrictions) completed a test battery evaluating their anthropometric characteristics, body compositions, activity preferences, cognitive performances and physical fitness. The performance of the Standing Long Jump was better at T0 (169.9 ± 142.5 cm) compared to T1 (135.2 ± 31.4 cm) (p = 0.0367), and the Medicine Ball Throw performance declined from T0 to T1 (297.3 ± 81.1 cm vs. 249 ± 52 cm; p < 0.0001). Motor skills (26.9 ± 6.2 s vs. 30.9 ± 5.4 s; p < 0.0001), the shuttle-run test (stages completed), Maximal Aerobic Speed, and the estimated VO2max were lower at T1 compared to T0 (p < 0.0001). Executive functioning was found to be greater at T0 compared to T1 (p < 0.0001). Explicit liking or wanting for sedentary or physical activities did not change between T0 and T1. Both overall physical fitness and cognitive performance drastically declined among primary school French children with the COVID-19-related public health restrictions, which reinforces the need to urgently develop preventive strategies in anticipation of further mitigation measures.
Evidence Map and Systematic Review of Disinfection Efficacy on Environmental Surfaces in Healthcare Facilities
Authors: Christenson Elizabeth C. , Cronk Ryan , Atkinson Helen , Bhatt Aayush , Berdiel Emilio , Cawley Michelle , Cho Grace , Coleman Collin Knox , Harrington Cailee , Heilferty Kylie , Fejfar Don , Grant Emily J. , Grigg Karen , Joshi Tanmay , Mohan Suniti , Pelak Grace , Shu Yuhong , Bartram Jamie
Published: October 2021

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) contribute to patient morbidity and mortality with an estimated 1.7 million infections and 99,000 deaths costing USD $28–34 billion annually in the United States alone. There is little understanding as to if current environmental surface disinfection practices reduce pathogen load, and subsequently HAIs, in critical care settings. This evidence map includes a systematic review on the efficacy of disinfecting environmental surfaces in healthcare facilities. We screened 17,064 abstracts, 635 full texts, and included 181 articles for data extraction and study quality assessment. We reviewed ten disinfectant types and compared disinfectants with respect to study design, outcome organism, and fourteen indictors of study quality. We found important areas for improvement and gaps in the research related to study design, implementation, and analysis. Implementation of disinfection, a determinant of disinfection outcomes, was not measured in most studies and few studies assessed fungi or viruses. Assessing and comparing disinfection efficacy was impeded by study heterogeneity; however, we catalogued the outcomes and results for each disinfection type. We concluded that guidelines for disinfectant use are primarily based on laboratory data rather than a systematic review of in situ disinfection efficacy. It is critically important for practitioners and researchers to consider system-level efficacy and not just the efficacy of the disinfectant.
Associations of Diet with Cardiometabolic and Inflammatory Profiles in Pregnant Women at Risk for Metabolic Complications
Authors: Jaworsky Kataryna , Ebersole Jeffrey L. , Planinic Petar , Basu Arpita
Published: October 2021

Dietary intakes play an important role in the development of metabolic complications during pregnancy. While reported observational studies reveal an inverse association of healthy diets with weight gain, gestational diabetes, and hypertensive complications during pregnancy, there is a paucity of studies conducted among women of specific ethnicities vulnerable to higher risks of pregnancy complications. This is a secondary cross sectional analysis using baseline data from a previously reported clinical trial. We aim to identify associations of maternal habitual dietary intakes with cardiometabolic risks and inflammatory profiles in primarily African American (AA) and Hispanic women in the first half of pregnancy. Fifty-two women met the study criteria and anthropometric, clinical, and dietary data were obtained at baseline. Linear regression analysis was used to determine associations after covariate adjustments. Among the maternal dietary nutrient intakes, total fats were positively associated with maternal body weight, BMI, and serum CRP (β ± SE: 0.25 ± 0.13, 0.28 ± 0.18, and 0.29 ± 0.14, respectively, all p < 0.05), and saturated fats were positively associated with glycated hemoglobin (0.32 ± 0.12). Dietary fiber intake showed a consistent inverse association with body weight (−0.26 ± 0.13), BMI (−0.19 ± 0.15), glycated hemoglobin (−0.22 ± 0.16), as well as serum CRP (−0.19 ± 0.14). Among the maternal food group intakes, dairy intake was inversely associated with systolic blood pressure (−0.18 ± 0.15) and serum IL-6 (−0.22 ± 0.17), and vegetable intake showed an inverse association with serum CRP (−0.17 ± 0.12) all in adjusted analyses (all p < 0.05). Thus, maternal diet modifications, especially decreasing fats and increasing fiber and dairy may help address obesity and inflammation leading to pregnancy complications in AA and Hispanic women.
Effects of E-Cigarette Flavoring Chemicals on Human Macrophages and Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Morris Anna M. , Leonard Stephen S. , Fowles Jefferson R. , Boots Theresa E. , Mnatsakanova Anna , Attfield Kathleen R.
Published: October 2021

E-cigarettes utilize a wide range of flavoring chemicals with respiratory health effects that are not well understood. In this study, we used pulmonary-associated cell lines to assess the in vitro cytotoxic effects of 30 flavoring chemicals. Human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) and both naïve and activated macrophages (THP-1) were treated with 10, 100, and 1000 µM of flavoring chemicals and analyzed for changes in viability, cell membrane damage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and inflammatory cytokine release. Viability was unaffected for all chemicals at the 10 and 100 µM concentrations. At 1000 µM, the greatest reductions in viability were seen with decanal, hexanal, nonanal, cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, vanillin, alpha-pinene, and limonene. High amounts of ROS were elicited by vanillin, ethyl maltol, and the diketones (2,3-pentanedione, 2,3-heptanedione, and 2,3-hexanedione) from both cell lines. Naïve THP-1 cells produced significantly elevated levels of IL-1β, IL-8, and TNF-α when exposed to ethyl maltol and hexanal. Activated THP-1 cells released increased IL-1β and TNF-α when exposed to ethyl maltol, but many flavoring chemicals had an apparent suppressive effect on inflammatory cytokines released by activated macrophages, some with varying degrees of accompanying cytotoxicity. The diketones, L-carvone, and linalool suppressed cytokine release in the absence of cytotoxicity. These findings provide insight into lung cell cytotoxicity and inflammatory cytokine release in response to flavorings commonly used in e-cigarettes.
Exploring Factors Contributing to the Implementation of Ontario’s Healthy Kids Community Challenge: Surveys and Key Stakeholder Interviews with Program Providers
Authors: Vine Michelle M. , Laxer Rachel E. , Lee Jessica , Harrington Daniel W. , Manson Heather E.
Published: October 2021

(1) Background: To explore factors contributing to the Healthy Kids Community Challenge (HKCC) program implementation; (2) Methods: Data were collected through a quantitative survey (n = 124) and in-depth telephone interviews (n = 16) with program providers. Interviews were recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis using NVivo; (3) Results: Provincial funding and in-kind support from community partners were key. Initiatives were feasible to implement, and key messages were well-received by communities. Specific practices and process were commonly discussed, and strong local program leadership was crucial to implementation; (4) Conclusions: Results have implications for planning and implementing future multi-component, community-based health promotion programs that include similar partnerships.