bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prolonged Exposition with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) May Provide Survival Benefit after Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) in Advanced Primary Epithelial Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, and Primary Peritoneal Cancer
Authors: Acs Miklos , Herold Zoltan , Szasz Attila Marcell , Mayr Max , Häusler Sebastian , Piso Pompiliu
Published: July 2022

Background: The usage of cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for advanced gynecological cancers is increasing. Methods: Prospectively collected data of 85 advanced primary ovarian/fallopian tube cancer and peritoneal carcinoma patients of a single center were investigated. Results: A total 48, 37, 62, and 25 patients were enrolled into the HIPEC with/without neoadjuvant chemotherapy (upfront vs. interval) and into the 60 min and 90 min long HIPEC groups, respectively. Better overall survival (OS) was observed in the 90 min HIPEC group (p = 0.0330), compared to the 60 min HIPEC group. Neither OS (p = 0. 2410), disease-specific (p = 0. 3670), nor recurrence-free survival (p = 0.8240) differed between upfront and interval HIPEC. Higher peritoneal carcinomatosis index (PCI) values were associated with worse disease-specific survival (p = 0.0724). Age (p = 0.0416), body mass index (p = 0.0044), PCI (p < 0.0001), the type (p = 0.0016) and duration (p = 0.0012) of HIPEC, and increased perioperative morbidity (p < 0.0041) had the greatest impact on OS. Conclusions: Increasing data support the value of HIPEC in the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer. Ongoing prospective studies will definitively clarify the role and timing of this additional therapeutic approach.
Does Maternal Obesity Affect Preterm Birth? Documentary Cohort Study of Preterm in Firstborns—Silesia (Poland)
Authors: Sobczyk Karolina , Holecki Tomasz , Woźniak-Holecka Joanna , Grajek Mateusz
Published: July 2022

In addition to low birth weight and intrauterine growth restriction, prematurity is a major problem in modern neonatology. The etiology of premature delivery is multifactorial, but maternal obesity has been indicated as an important risk factor for preterm birth. This study aimed to assess the relationship between early pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and the risk of preterm delivery according to gestational age. In the cohort of 2794 firstborns, preterm deliveries accounted for 9.1%. Of all deliveries, 16, 48, and 189 were classified as extremely preterm, very preterm, and moderately preterm deliveries, respectively. The risk of extremely, very, and moderately preterm deliveries increased with the increasing BMI, with the highest overweight and obesity-related risk for extremely and very preterm delivery. The rate of extremely and very preterm delivery among normal-weight women (BMI 18.5 ≤ 25) was 1.8%, while that among overweight and obese women (BMI ≥ 25) was 2.36%. The rate of all preterm deliveries (22 ≤ 37 weeks) was 8% for normal-weight women and 10.3% for overweight and obese women. Compared with normal-weight women, the adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) for preterm delivery in overweight and obese women was 1.33 (0.98–1.79). In Poland, being overweight and obese during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery, especially extremely and very preterm delivery. This relationship should be assessed in other populations.
Unified, Labeled, and Semi-Structured Database of Pre-Processed Mexican Laws
Authors: Martinez-Seis Bella , Pichardo-Lagunas Obdulia , Koff Harlan , Equihua Miguel , Perez-Maqueo Octavio , Hernández-Huerta Arturo
Published: July 2022

This paper presents a corpus of pre-processed Mexican laws for computational tasks. The main contributions are the proposed JSON structure and the methodology used to achieve the semi-structured corpus with the selected algorithms. Law PDF documents were transformed into plain text, unified by a deconstruction of law–document structure, and labeled with natural language processing techniques considering part of speech (PoS); a process of entity extraction was also performed. The corpus includes the Mexican constitution and the Mexican laws that were collected from the official site in PDF format repealed before 14 October 2021. The collection has 305 documents, including: the Mexican constitution, 289 laws, 8 federal codes, 3 regulations, 2 statutes, 1 decree, and 1 ordinance. The semi-structured database includes the transformation of the set of laws from PDF format to a digital representation in order to facilitate its computational analysis. The documents were migrated to JSON type files to represent internal hierarchical relations. In addition, basic natural language processing techniques were implemented on laws for the identification of part of speech and named entities. The presented data set is mainly useful for text analysis and data science. It could be used for various legislative analysis tasks including: comprehension, interpretation, translation, classification, accessibility, coherence, and searches. Finally, we present some statistic of the identified entities and an example of the usefulness of the corpus for environmental laws.
A Database of Topo-Bathy Cross-Shore Profiles and Characteristics for U.S. Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Sandy Coastlines
Authors: Mickey Rangley C. , Passeri Davina L.
Published: July 2022

A database of seamless topographic and bathymetric cross-shore profiles along with metrics of the associated morphological characteristics based on the latest available lidar data ranging from 2011–2020 and bathymetry from the Continuously Updated Digital Elevation Model was developed for U.S. Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico open-ocean sandy coastlines. Cross-shore resolution ranges from 2.5 m for topographic and nearshore portions to 10 m for offshore portions. Topographic morphological characteristics include: foredune crest elevation, foredune toe elevation, foredune width, foredune volume, foredune relative height, beach width, beach volume, beach slope, and nearshore slope. This database was developed to serve as inputs for current and future morphological modeling studies aimed at providing real-time estimates of coastal change magnitudes resulting from imminent tropical storm and hurricane landfall. Beyond this need for model inputs, the database of cross-shore profiles and characteristic metrics could serve as a tool for coastal scientists to visualize and to analyze varying local, regional, and national variations in coastal morphology for varying types of studies and projects related to Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico sandy coastline environments.
The Role of Human Knowledge in Explainable AI
Authors: Tocchetti Andrea , Brambilla Marco
Published: July 2022

As the performance and complexity of machine learning models have grown significantly over the last years, there has been an increasing need to develop methodologies to describe their behaviour. Such a need has mainly arisen due to the widespread use of black-box models, i.e., high-performing models whose internal logic is challenging to describe and understand. Therefore, the machine learning and AI field is facing a new challenge: making models more explainable through appropriate techniques. The final goal of an explainability method is to faithfully describe the behaviour of a (black-box) model to users who can get a better understanding of its logic, thus increasing the trust and acceptance of the system. Unfortunately, state-of-the-art explainability approaches may not be enough to guarantee the full understandability of explanations from a human perspective. For this reason, human-in-the-loop methods have been widely employed to enhance and/or evaluate explanations of machine learning models. These approaches focus on collecting human knowledge that AI systems can then employ or involving humans to achieve their objectives (e.g., evaluating or improving the system). This article aims to present a literature overview on collecting and employing human knowledge to improve and evaluate the understandability of machine learning models through human-in-the-loop approaches. Furthermore, a discussion on the challenges, state-of-the-art, and future trends in explainability is also provided.
Interleukin Inhibitors in Cytokine Release Syndrome and Neurotoxicity Secondary to CAR-T Therapy
Authors: Ferreros Puri , Trapero Isabel
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy is an innovative therapeutic option for addressing certain recurrent or refractory hematological malignancies. However, CAR-T cells also cause the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines that lead to life-threatening cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. Objective: To study the efficacy of interleukin inhibitors in addressing cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity secondary to CAR-T therapy. Methodology: The authors conducted a bibliographic review in which 10 articles were analyzed. These included cut-off studies, case reports, and clinical trials involving 11 cancer centers and up to 475 patients over 18 years of age. Results: Tocilizumab is the only interleukin inhibitor approved to address CRS secondary to CAR-T therapy due to its efficacy and safety. Other inhibitors, such as siltuximab and anakinra, could be useful in combination with tocilizumab for preventing severe cytokine release and neurotoxicity. In addition, the new specific inhibitors could be effective in mitigating CRS without affecting the cytotoxic efficacy of CAR-T therapy. Conclusion: More lines of research should be opened to elucidate the true implications of these drugs in treating the side effects of CAR-T therapy.
Performance Estimation: CCL WPT Topologies with Helical Coils
Authors: Chen Chien-Lung , Hung Chung-Wen
Published: July 2022

The radius of the coil, the number of turns of the windings, and the parasitic resistances of energy-storing elements affect the performances of wireless power transfer systems. We aimed to study the effects of coil parameters on a wireless power transfer system with the capacitor–capacitor–coupling coil (CCL)-based circuit using numerical simulations. The power transfer system topologies, including series–CCL (S–CCL), CCL–S, and CCL–CCL, were studied vis-à-vis coil parameters. The helical coil and the system topologies were modeled using MATLAB, and the performances of the topologies were examined in comparison to the series–series (S–S) topology. The variables used in the simulations included the radius and number of turns, the parasitic resistance that was merged in the impedance, and the reactance of energy-storing elements. Subsequently, the performances of the topologies were estimated by numerical simulations under several circumstances. The simulation results showed that the parasitic resistance of the coupling coil affects the performances of the topologies directly. The coupling coils with smaller geometries are beneficial to power transfer in the wireless power transfer system and may further contribute to miniaturization.
The Prokaryotic Complex of Modern and Buried Soils on the Kamchatka Peninsula
Authors: Manucharova Natalia A. , Karimov Timur D. , Pevzner Maria M. , Nechushkin Roman I. , Pozdnyakov Lev A. , Stepanov Pavel Y. , Stepanov Alexey L.
Published: July 2022

A prokaryotic heterotrophic mesophilic community was studied in volcanic soil samples from Kamchatka. A phylogenetic and physiological characterization of the prokaryotic complex of modern and buried soils of the Kamchatka Peninsula is given. Volcanic Paleolithic soils (2500 and 11,300 years old) and their modern equivalents were investigated. It was found that the biomass of metabolically active prokaryotes in modern volcanic and Paleolithic soils reached 50 and 40 µg/g, respectively. The proportion of archaea in the metabolically active prokaryotic complex varied from 20% to 30% and increased in variants with the application of the nitrogen-containing biopolymer chitin. The application of the additional resource to paleovolcanic soils led to an incremental increase in the proportion of metabolically active prokaryotes, which reached 50% of the total prokaryotic biomass detected, indicating the high metabolic potential of the considered soils. Phylogenetic structure characteristics of the prokaryotic metabolically active component of modern and buried volcanic soil were established by molecular biology methods (metagenomic analysis, FISH method). The phylum Proteobacteria (74%), Acidobacteria, and Actinobacteria (14% combined) were dominant in modern soils; phylum Acidobacteria (51.8%) was dominant in paleosoils, whereas Chloroflexi (21%) and Proteobacteria (9%) were subdominant. It was determined that the potential activity of the microbial hydrolytic community, as measured by the relative response to the added resource (chitin), was found to increase in a series from modern to paleovolcanic soil. It was demonstrated that several key genes of the nitrogen cycle responsible for the processes of molecular nitrogen fixation, nitrification, and denitrification (nifH, amoA, nirK) were present in both modern and buried horizons.
Does Participation in Aquaculture Cooperatives Increase Farmers′ Profit and Output?
Authors: Cai Danfeng , Tong Pengcheng , Wei Xinyi , Hu Qiuguang
Published: July 2022

Individual aquaculture farmers in developing countries play an important role in ensuring food security. This study uses survey data from aquaculture households in Rongcheng and Xiangshan cities in China to explore the impact of cooperative participation on the benefits to the aquaculture households. The empirical results show that the participation of aquaculture farmers in cooperatives has effectively increased their net profit and output per unit area. On average, participating in cooperatives increased the net profit and output per unit area of farmers by approximately 15.55% and 11.47%, respectively. The test results of the mechanism show that the information services, technical training, and product sales guidance provided by the cooperatives have increased the net profit of the farmers. At the same time, the information services and product sales guidance provided by cooperatives are important reasons for the increase in the output per unit area.
Integrated Interpretation of the Results of Long-Term Geotechnical Monitoring in Underground Tunnels Using the Electromagnetic Radiation Method
Authors: Romanevich Kirill V. , Lebedev Mikhail O. , Andrianov Semen V. , Mulev Sergey N.
Published: July 2022

Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) technology makes it possible to evaluate changes in the stress-strain state (SSS) in the “tunnel lining-enclosing rock mass” system at a high level of interference, and to create schemes of long-term EMR control in tunnels (geotechnical monitoring systems). The issues of the variations in EMR signals are extremely important for monitoring systems: based on anomalous deviations from the normal regime one can draw conclusions about changes in the SSS, leading to geodynamic phenomena (e.g., rock bursts). This article presents data obtained during laboratory studies on samples and field studies in transport tunnels. Also, some results of long-term geotechnical monitoring by a set of methods is presented: EMR and tensometry of the tunnel lining, both methods are in the automatic mode. The ability of an EMR control system to respond to earthquakes affecting tunnel structures is shown. An analysis of long-term EMR studies was conducted, which showed the periodic oscillation of the “tunnel lining-enclosing rock mass” system. In a stable compressed state, minima of EMR pulses are recorded; when the rock mass and lining material are stretched, charges are separated on the edges of micro-defects and EMR increases; complete separation of the edges of micro-defects leads to the termination of intense EMR. The same occurs in the opposite direction during the compression of micro-defects and micro-fractures in the rock mass and concrete lining. The periods of compression and expansion are closely related to temperature fluctuations. The results differ in detail and, therefore, in to be more confident, additional studies are needed in various host rock massifs and types of tunnel lining.
Diamond Alpha Hilbert-Type Inequalities on Time Scales
Authors: El-Deeb Ahmed A. , Baleanu Dumitru , Askar Sameh S. , Cesarano Clemente , Abdeldaim Ahmed
Published: July 2022

In this article, we will prove some new diamond alpha Hilbert-type dynamic inequalities on time scales which are defined as a linear combination of the nabla and delta integrals. These inequalities extend some known dynamic inequalities on time scales, and unify and extend some continuous inequalities and their corresponding discrete analogues. Our results will be proven by using some algebraic inequalities, diamond alpha Hölder inequality, and diamond alpha Jensen’s inequality on time scales.
Ammonia Production Plants—A Review
Authors: Amhamed Abdulkarem I. , Shuibul Qarnain Syed , Hewlett Sally , Sodiq Ahmed , Abdellatif Yasser , Isaifan Rima J. , Alrebei Odi Fawwaz
Published: July 2022

Considering the global scientific and industrial effort to utilize ammonia as an alternative to natural gas combustion to run power plants, it is crucial to objectively assess the literature before adjusting or proposing new and advancing techniques in ammonia plants while considering a variety of factors. As a result, this paper assesses the global effort to improve existing ammonia plants and identifies progress by evaluating the currently available dataset to identify knowledge gaps and highlight aspects that have yet to be addressed. Based on the literature reviewed in this study, it was found that the majority of the efforts to advance ammonia plants mainly focus on reducing energy consumption, implementing alternative methods to extract the necessary hydrogen and nitrogen in the process, and changing the cycle arrangement and operating conditions to make the industrial plants more compact. However, regarding carbon reduction in the ammonia production process, it is clear that the effort is less significant when compared to the global scientific and industrial progress in other areas.
The Influence of the Precursor’s Nature and Drying Conditions on the Structure, Morphology, and Thermal Properties of TiO2 Aerogels
Authors: Donėlienė Jolanta , Fataraitė-Urbonienė Eglė , Danchova Nina , Gutzov Stoyan , Ulbikas Juras
Published: July 2022

A cost-effective solution for the synthesis of high-porosity TiO2 aerogels, which can be used as a mesoporous perovskite network charge-carrier material during the manufacture of solar cells, is described. The effects of the synthesis parameters (precursor (titanium (IV) isopropoxide (TIP) and tetrabutyl orthotitanate (TBOT)), additional solvent exchange (n-hexane (nH), cyclohexane (CH), and diethyl ether (DE)), subcritical drying (800 mbar vacuum, 70 °C, 8 h), aging, and calcination on the aerogel’s structure have been investigated. Methods of XRD, FT-IR, BET, Raman, STA, SEM, UV–vis, and thermal conductivity measurements were applied to find out the relation between the synthesis conditions and the properties of the synthesized aerogels. Amorphous aerogels are polydispersed systems with the highest probability of pore diameter from 0.5 to 15 nm. An nH-exchanged, aged aerogel synthesized from the precursor TIP shows the highest diameter of pores. After calcination, the aerogels tend to crystallize into an anatase phase and the size of the crystallites depends on the precursor’s nature. Calcination leads to a significant increase in both the apparent and true density of the aerogels, and it also results in an increase in porosity and thermal conductivity.
Integrated Transcriptome and Metabolomic Analysis Reveal Anti-Angiogenic Properties of Disarib, a Novel Bcl2-Specific Inhibitor
Authors: Manjunath Meghana , Swaroop Sai , Pradhan Sai Sanwid , Rao K Raksha , Mahadeva Raghunandan , Sivaramakrishnan Venketesh , Choudhary Bibha
Published: July 2022

Transcriptomic profiling of several drugs in cancer cell lines has been utilised to obtain drug-specific signatures and guided combination therapy to combat drug resistance and toxicity. Global metabolomics reflects changes due to altered activity of enzymes, environmental factors, etc. Integrating transcriptomics and metabolomics can provide genotype-phenotype correlation, providing meaningful insights into alterations in gene expression and its outcome to understand differential metabolism and guide therapy. This study uses a multi-omics approach to understand the global gene expression and metabolite changes induced by Disarib, a novel Bcl2-specific inhibitor in the Ehrlich adenocarcinoma (EAC) breast cancer mouse model. RNAseq analysis was performed on EAC mouse tumours treated with Disarib and compared to the controls. The expression of 6 oncogenes and 101 tumour suppressor genes interacting with Bcl2 and Bak were modulated upon Disarib treatment. Cancer hallmark pathways like DNA repair, Cell cycle, angiogenesis, and mitochondrial metabolism were downregulated, and programmed cell death platelet-related pathways were upregulated. Global metabolomic profiling using LC-MS revealed that Oncometabolites like carnitine, oleic acid, glycine, and arginine were elevated in tumour mice compared to normal and were downregulated upon Disarib treatment. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles identified arginine metabolism, histidine, and purine metabolism to be altered upon Disarib treatment. Pro-angiogenic metabolites, arginine, palmitic acid, oleic acid, and myristoleic acid were downregulated in Disarib-treated mice. We further validated the effect of Disarib on angiogenesis by qRT-PCR analysis of genes in the VEGF pathway. Disarib treatment led to the downregulation of pro-angiogenic markers. Furthermore, the chorioallantoic membrane assay displayed a reduction in the formation of the number of secondary blood vessels upon Disarib treatment. Disarib reduces tumours by reducing oncometabolite and activating apoptosis and downregulating angiogenesis.
What Advantages Do Adaptive Industrial Heritage Reuse Processes Provide? An Econometric Model for Estimating the Impact on the Surrounding Residential Housing Market
Authors: Dell’Anna Federico
Published: July 2022

When industrial relics, such as obsolete buildings, sites, and infrastructures, enter into a process of adaptive reuse, they become transformation engines capable of shaping the urban fabric. They provide tangible and intangible links to our past and have the potential to play a significant role in today’s cities’ futures. One unresolved issue is the quantification of the externalities of these transformation processes. If undertaken correctly, adaptive reuse can contribute to the development of social and cultural capital, environmental sustainability, urban regeneration, and, most importantly, economic benefits to the surrounding community. In this sense, understanding the value of heritage is particularly important in light of the new European urban environmental policy movement based on the circular economy, which aims to change the way Member States consume and produce materials and energy. After a review of the externalities generated by the adaptive reuse of disused industrial heritage, the paper will concentrate on the estimation of economic benefits given by a transformation process that affected Turin’s Aurora district (Northern Italy) during the last years. The hedonic pricing method (HPM) was used to investigate the effects of the construction of new headquarters and the redevelopment of an old power plant converted into a museum and conference center. This study used econometric models to identify a significant increase in market prices within 800 m of the site and calculated a EUR 16,650,445 capitalized benefit from the transformation on the surrounding residential building stock. The study thus contributed to the awareness that reused heritage not only improves the lives of residents, but it also has a positive impact on the real estate market, in terms of transactions, as well as market values.
In Vitro Techniques for Shipping of Micropropagated Plant Materials
Authors: Li Jingwei , He Min , Xu Xiuhong , Huang Tingmin , Tian Huan , Zhang Wanping
Published: July 2022

Shipping of in vitro micro-cuttings in tubes or jars is a frequently used method as the plants are more likely to quickly reproduce and comply with quarantine regulations in plant germplasm distribution. However, these containers are fragile during transportation. To diminish the risk associated with the long-distance shipping of in vitro plants, a safe and widely applicable packing and conservation technique based on microplate and slow growth was developed in this study. Potato cultivar ZHB and ginger cultivar G-2 were used to optimize the system with microplates (96 wells), vacuum-sealed packaging, and slow-growth techniques. Under regular culture conditions, packing in vacuum-sealed microplates reduced the survival of ZHB and G-2 micro-cuttings to 85.8% and 20.0%, respectively, and regeneration to 61.8% and 0%, respectively. Reducing the temperature to 10 °C maintained the survival of ZHB and G-2 micro-cuttings in the range of 83.3–100% after 60 days. Exposure to darkness decreased the survival of G-2 and inhibited regrowth. Thus, conservation in darkness at 10 °C is suggested. The effects of iron concentration and plant growth retardants were further assessed. The addition of 1/4 MS medium combined with 100 mg/L chlormequat chloride (CCC) resulted in full survival and growth inhibition of plantlets, without malformation identified. Finally, incubation with 1/4 MS medium supplemented with 100 mg/L CCC in vacuum-sealed microplates at 10 °C in the dark resulted in high survival and suppressed germination. Sweet potato HXS was incubated as well to test the broad-spectrum applications of the technique; 100% survival and 6.7% germination was gained. Morphological indices of released cuttings recovered to control levels after two cycles of subculture in MS medium. A 0.1–0.2% genetic variation was detected by SSR and ISSR, suggesting genetic stability of the conserved samples. Finally, micro-cuttings were safely transported to cities located thousands of kilometers away without package and sample damage. Our results enable easy distribution of in vitro plant germplasms.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Prevalent Plant-Parasitic Nematodes from Turfgrasses in Guangdong, China
Authors: Zeng Yongsan , Chen Xiaoguan , Ni Yibei , Zhao Chen , Kerns James , Tredway Lane , Roberts Joseph
Published: July 2022

The turfgrass industry has undergone a rapid development in Guangdong province, China, which has the largest number of golf courses in the country. Recent surveys of turfgrasses in the province revealed five plant-parasitic nematodes that are prevalent: Helicotylenchus dihystera, Mesocriconema xenoplax, Meloidogyne graminis, Hemicriconemoides rosae and Tylenchorhynchus leviterminalis. The most prevalent species are M. xenoplax and M. graminis, found in 60.6% and 27.3% of locations, respectively. These five species are morphologically and morphometrically described. Molecular characterization and phylogenetic analyses using 18S rRNA and the D2-D3 expansion segments of 28S rRNA sequences are provided. This is the first report on molecular characterization and phylogenetic relationships of plant-parasitic nematodes associated with turfgrasses in Guangdong, China. This work was a first step for future study including pathogenicity assay, relationship examination with other pathogens and development of control measures of these turf nematodes to provide more precise and effective management options to turf superintendents.
Factors Associated with Outpatient Satisfaction in Provincial Tertiary Hospitals in Nanchang, China: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Zhou Xiaojun , He Qiuwen , Li Qi , Kuang Jie , Han Yalan , Chen Jiayan
Published: July 2022

Outpatient satisfaction is important in evaluating the performance of tertiary public hospitals in China. However, only a few studies have examined the interaction between outpatient satisfaction and its related factors. This study aimed to explore the relationship between patient satisfaction and its related factors in provincial tertiary hospitals. Six hundred outpatients in three provincial tertiary hospitals in Nanchang, China, were randomly selected. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the relationship of the factors associated with outpatient satisfaction. The conceptual model fitted the data well (χ2/df = 4.367, CFI = 0.951, TLI = 0.937, SRMR = 0.055, RMSEA = 0.075), with all the path coefficients being statistically significant (p < 0.001). The environment and facilities showed the most significant influence on outpatient satisfaction (standardized total effect = 0.389), followed by the quality of diagnosis and treatment (standardized total effect = 0.235). The waiting time for medical services showed a partial mediation effect of 0.077 between the environment and facilities and outpatient satisfaction. The study indicates that targeted measures should be taken to improve the amenities of hospitals and shorten the waiting time for medical services, thus further improving outpatients’ medical experience.
Bone Regeneration by Multichannel Cylindrical Granular Bone Substitute for Regeneration of Bone in Cases of Tumor, Fracture, and Arthroplasty
Authors: Jung Ki-Jin , Sarkar Swapan Kumar , Kim Woo-Jong , Kim Bo-Ram , Park Jong-Seok , Lee Byong-Taek
Published: July 2022

In orthopedics, a number of synthetic bone substitutes are being used for the repair and regeneration of damaged or diseased bone. The nature of the bone substitutes determines the clinical outcome and its application for a range of orthopedic clinical conditions. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the possible applications of multichannel granular bone substitutes in different types of orthopedic clinical conditions, including bone tumor, fracture, and bone defect with arthroplasty. A clinical investigation on a single patient for every specific type of disease was performed, and patient outcome was evaluated by physical and radiographic observation. Brief physical characterization of the granular bone substitute and in vivo animal model investigation were presented for a comprehensive understanding of the physical characteristics of the granules and of the performance of the bone substitute in a physiological environment, respectively. In all cases, the bone substitute stabilized the bone defect without any complications, and the defect regenerated slowly during the postoperative period. Gradual filling of the defect with the newly regenerated bone was confirmed by radiographic findings, and no adverse effects, such as osteolysis, graft dispersion, and non-union, were observed. Homogeneous bone formation was observed throughout the defect area, showing a three-dimensional bone regeneration. High-strength multichannel granules could be employed as versatile bone substitutes for the treatment of a wide range of orthopedic conditions.
Electronic Cigarettes in Thailand: Behaviour, Rationale, Satisfaction, and Sex Differences
Authors: Chankaew Tamonwan , Baiya Peeraporn , Chinwong Dujrudee , Yoodee Voratima , Chinwong Surarong
Published: July 2022

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) use is trending in Thailand. Electronic cigarettes are banned and illegally imported. This study aimed to investigate the behaviour, rationale, and satisfaction of e-cigarettes users and compared them between males and females. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1050 participants using e-cigarettes from December 2019 to February 2020. The participants were recruited by an online questionnaire posted on social media. The participants were current e-cigarettes users aged 18 years and older. Of 1050 participants, 936 were male (89.1%). The average age was 31.2 ± 8.4 years. The participants were from all regions of the country, but most (64.5%) were from central Thailand. Most e-cigarettes users comprised private employees (43.2%). The main source of e-cigarettes in Thailand is online sources such as social media. Tank-style e-cigarettes were popular among users. Amongst e-cigarettes users, the top three rationales for using e-cigarettes were fewer harmful effects from e-cigarettes than conventional cigarettes (81.0%), smoking cessation aids (80.6%), and their lack of attaching cigarette odour (58.2%). The top three reasons for satisfaction were using e-cigarettes as a conventional cigarette cessation aid (5.1 ± 1.3), lessening cravings for conventional cigarettes (5.1 ± 1.3), and reducing conventional cigarettes withdrawal symptoms (5.0 ± 1.3). Online purchase was the main source of e-cigarettes in Thailand. The general rationale for using electronic cigarettes was that they are less harmful and to quit conventional cigarettes. Thai users were satisfied to use e-cigarettes as a conventional cigarette cessation aid. Males and females differed in behaviour, rationale, and satisfaction of e-cigarettes. Public health organisations should provide accurate information about the harm of electronic cigarettes and their efficacy for tobacco cessation.
Mobile Device Usage before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic among Rural and Urban Adults
Authors: Jonnatan Livia , Seaton Cherisse L. , Rush Kathy L. , Li Eric P. H. , Hasan Khalad
Published: July 2022

Technology has played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite affording a safe way for people to connect with others, the potential for problematic device usage (e.g., overuse, addiction) should be considered. The goal of this study was to examine mobile device use during the COVID-19 pandemic among rural and urban people in Canada. Based on an online survey conducted in the summer of 2021 in British Columbia (n = 465), participants self-reported spending more hours per day (M = 8.35 h) using technology during the pandemic compared to prior (M = 6.02 h), with higher increases among urban participants (p < 0.001). Mobile device usage scores were highest for reasons of social connectedness and productivity, with no rural/urban differences; however, urban participants reported higher use of mobile devices for their mental well-being (p = 0.001), but also reported higher, continuous use (p < 0.001), addiction (p < 0.001), and detrimental impacts on their physical health (p < 0.001) compared to rural participants. Because urban participants were more vulnerable to mobile device overuse and addiction during the pandemic, researchers and policy makers should consider the ongoing role and positive/negative impacts of mobile device use, paying particular attention to urban populations.
A Scopus-Based Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Contributions on Milk Fluoridation
Authors: Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem , Nwafor Jacob Njideka , Salami Afeez Abolarinwa , Egbedina Eyinade Adeduntan , Nnyanzi Lawrence Achilles , Ojo Temitope Oluwabukola , Duckworth Ralph M. , Zohoori Fatemeh Vida
Published: July 2022

Fluoridated-milk schemes have been developed and implemented in many countries to prevent dental caries. This study aimed to evaluate the impact/influence of scientific publications, researchers, and institutions conducting research on milk fluoridation; to explore the international and inter-institutional collaboration and illustrate scientific output trends; and to pinpoint research hotspots in milk fluoridation research. This bibliometric analysis of original research articles on milk fluoridation includes all of the original articles published in peer-reviewed journals systematically extracted from the SCOPUS database. In total, 108 articles were included in this study, with a total of 11,789 citations. A majority (67.6%) of these articles were in the subject area of ‘dentistry’, 22.2% externally funded, 14.8% published in the journal, Caries Research, 7.4% authored/co-authored by Twetman S, 6.5% by authors from Universidad de Chile, and the UK had the highest output (24.1%). The network visualizations showed that those countries with current/past histories of implemented milk fluoridation programs were interconnected on the network visualization map, and they were predominantly the hotspots for original research on milk fluoridation. This study also identified inequalities in research outputs on the topic. With the current enormous global burden of dental caries in children, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, there is an urgent need for greater and more equitable funding of milk fluoridation research globally.
Mathematical Modeling of the Evolution of Absenteeism in a University Hospital over 12 Years
Authors: Vialatte Luc , Pereira Bruno , Guillin Arnaud , Miallaret Sophie , Baker Julien Steven , Colin-Chevalier Rémi , Yao-Lafourcade Anne-Françoise , Azzaoui Nourddine , Clinchamps Maëlys , Bouillon-Minois Jean-Baptiste , Dutheil Frédéric
Published: July 2022

Increased absenteeism in health care institutions is a major problem, both economically and health related. Our objectives were to understand the general evolution of absenteeism in a university hospital from 2007 to 2019 and to analyze the professional and sociodemographic factors influencing this issue. An initial exploratory analysis was performed to understand the factors that most influence absences. The data were then transformed into time series to analyze the evolution of absences over time. We performed a temporal principal components analysis (PCA) of the absence proportions to group the factors. We then created profiles with contributions from each variable. We could then observe the curves of these profiles globally but also compare the profiles by period. Finally, a predictive analysis was performed on the data using a VAR model. Over the 13 years of follow-up, there were 1,729,097 absences for 14,443 different workers (73.8% women; 74.6% caregivers). Overall, the number of absences increased logarithmically. The variables contributing most to the typical profile of the highest proportions of absences were having a youngest child between 4 and 10 years old (6.44% of contribution), being aged between 40 and 50 years old (5.47%), being aged between 30 and 40 years old (5.32%), working in the administrative field (4.88%), being tenured (4.87%), being a parent (4.85%), being in a coupled relationship (4.69%), having a child over the age of 11 (4.36%), and being separated (4.29%). The forecasts predict a stagnation in the proportion of absences for the profiles of the most absent factors over the next 5 years including annual peaks. During this study, we looked at the sociodemographic and occupational factors that led to high levels of absenteeism. Being aware of these factors allows health companies to act to reduce absenteeism, which represents real financial and public health threats for hospitals.
Physical Characteristics and Performance Tests in Male Water Polo: A Multiple Regression Analysis on Youth
Authors: Melchiorri Giovanni , Triossi Tamara , Bianchi Daniele , Tancredi Virginia , Viero Valerio
Published: July 2022

Background: In water polo, more physical and performance variables are related to a performance in a match. The aim of our work was therefore: (a) to evaluate the relationships between anthropometric characteristics and performance tests and performance in a match in young male water polo players; (b) to propose new guidelines for match analysis. Methods: Multiple regression analysis was used to study the results in anthropometric evaluations (height, body mass, chest circumference, arm span, non-dominant arm length) and performance tests (push-up, chin-up, shuttle swim test, sprint swim 10 m, eggbeater kick, 100 m swimming) and two coaches’ evaluations of two friendly matches using new guidelines. A total of 130 subjects (age: 15.6 ± 0.9 years) were involved in the study. Results: In this study, we proposed a new performance model based on multiple regression analysis (r = 0.85, r2 = 0.73, adjusted r2 = 0.57) and described by the following equation: Coach’s Evaluation = 151.6 + (−0.016 × height) + (0.6 × body mass) + (−0.82 × chest) + (−0.59 × arm span) + (0.75 × non dominant arm length) + (−0.037 × push up) + (0.17 × chin up) + (5.87 × shuttle swim test) + (−2.2 × 10 m sprint swim) + (0.05 × eggbeater kick) + (−0.35 × 100 m swimming). Inter-observer values were: CV: −3.9%, ICC: 0.82, ES: 0.1. Intra-observer: CV: −4.1%, ICC: 0.96, ES: 0.06. Conclusions: The relationships between anthropometric and performance variables and the match analysis have been statistically described. The equation found can be used to predict the overall performance of a player and permits evaluations of how much the improvement in one of the qualities can affect the players’ overall performance. Moreover, the new method for match analysis we have proposed showed a good reliability and can be used for new studies on water polo.
External Support for Elderly Care Social Enterprises in China: A Government-Society-Family Framework of Analysis
Authors: Li Huimin , Huang Jianyuan , Liu Jiayun
Published: July 2022

As Chinese population ageing becomes increasingly severe, the disjunct between supply and demand for pension services is becoming increasingly serious. The development of elderly care social enterprises plays an important role in solving this disjunction. Such development comes from both the enterprise’s own capacity building and from external support. There are abundant studies on the capacity-building of pension social enterprises in the existing literature, but there are relatively few studies on their external support. In order to better study the external support of elderly care social enterprises in China, we adopted the case study method; we selected GY (a typical elderly care social enterprise in China) as a case study according to certain criteria, and we conducted a series of discussions. Firstly, an analytical ‘government-society-family’ framework was constructed. Second, it was argued that there is insufficient external support for elderly care social enterprises. At the government level, there is a lack of policies, difficulties in implementation and significant geographical differences; at the social level, there are weak support platforms and lack of community supports; and at the family level, there are constraints in regard to traditional concepts and the ability to pay. Finally, an external support system of Chinese elderly care social enterprises was constructed to help more elderly care social enterprises overcome the lack of external support in the development process.
Supportive Communities: Conceptualizing Supportive Structures for Coaches’ Learning and Well-Being in Community Youth Soccer
Authors: Hertting Krister , Grahn Karin , Wagnsson Stefan
Published: July 2022

Sweden has an extensive culture of community club sports for children and youths, based on voluntary leadership. Being a voluntary coach can be stressful and can affect coaches’ well-being. Since voluntary coaching is closely connected to and conditioned by family life and civil occupation, coaches need support for practical issues as well as for developing their coaching assignment in relation to the constantly changing conditions within sports for children and youths. The aim of this paper was to conceptualize and problematize the supportive structures in everyday activities, in order to promote learning and well-being and to prevent mental health issues. This paper is conceptual and based on a paradigm case. The starting point is communities of practice (CoP) and how CoPs can contribute to the development of supportive structures for coaches in youth sports. In conclusion, a CoP is dependent on negotiation within the coaching team as well as on facilitating factors that can add knowledge, perspectives, and experiences to the CoP. The facilitating factors mean that a CoP has the potential to be health-promoting for both coaches and players. Hence, it is important to create conditions, structures, and support—such as policies, practice-based education, mentorship, and facilitators.
Physical Activity Evaluation Using Activity Trackers for Type 2 Diabetes Prevention in Patients with Prediabetes
Authors: Bliudzius Antanas , Svaikeviciene Kristina , Puronaite Roma , Kasiulevicius Vytautas
Published: July 2022

Background: Prediabetes is a reversible condition, but lifestyle-changing measures, such as increasing physical activity, should be taken. This article explores the use of Fitbit activity trackers to assess physical activity and its impact on prediabetic patient health. Methods: Intervention study. In total, 30 volunteers (9 males and 21 females), aged 32–65 years, with impaired glucose levels and without diabetes or moving disorders, received Fitbit Inspire activity trackers and physical activity recommendations. A routine blood check was taken during the first and second visits, and body composition was analyzed. Physical activity variability in time was assessed using a Poincare plot. Results: The count of steps per day and variability differed between patients and during the research period, but the change in total physical activity was not statistically significant. Significant positive correlations between changes in lipid values, body mass composition, and variability of steps count, distance, and minutes of very active physical activity were observed. Conclusions: When assessing physical activity, data doctors should evaluate not just the totals or the medians of the steps count, but also physical activity variability in time. The study shows that most changes were better linked to the physical activity variability than the total count of physical activity.
Linking Housing Conditions and Energy Poverty: From a Perspective of Household Energy Self-Restriction
Authors: Chen Keyu , Feng Chao
Published: July 2022

Affordable and warm housing is a basic household living need, which is closely related to human health and well-being. This study attempts to establish the link between household housing conditions and energy poverty in China from the perspective of energy self-restriction using logit and mediation models based on microdata. The results report that: (1) households are more likely to be exposed to energy poverty if they live in larger, older, poorly insulated houses, without basic energy service equipment, and in rental housing; (2) the area of residence and energy installations are the main characteristics that distinguish energy poverty from non-energy poverty; (3) the link between housing conditions and energy poverty is reinforced by the psychology and behavior of households, with those living in poor conditions tending to restrain their energy consumption, thus worsening their energy poverty situation.
Experiences of How Health and Lifestyle among Individuals with Knee Pain Have Been Influenced during the COVID-19 Pandemic, a HALLOA Study
Authors: Sunesson Evelina , Sylwander Charlotte , Haglund Emma , Andersson Maria L. E. , Larsson Ingrid
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the health and lifestyles of both the general population and of vulnerable groups. Individuals with knee pain are recommended to lead an active lifestyle to relieve pain but find it difficult to maintain health and lifestyle compared to the general population due to the cause of chronic pain, impaired physical function, and a diminished quality of life. This study aimed to explore experiences of how health and lifestyle among individuals with knee pain have been influenced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviews (n = 19) were conducted in 2021 and analysed with qualitative content analysis. The results showed how individuals with knee pain adjusted their behaviour and revalued their life to maintain health and lifestyle during COVID-19. Adjusted behaviours emerged, such as spending more time at home, becoming digital, and spending more time outdoors, while revaluing life emerged as having a positive outlook on life and sharing responsibility. In conclusion, behaviour was adjusted, and life revalued to manage health and lifestyle during the pandemic. However, the findings are probably similar to the general population, i.e., individuals with knee pain live similar lives as the general population despite knee pain. The results may contribute to alternative ways of maintaining health and lifestyle in various vulnerable groups and may be applied in situations other than the pandemic.