bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On a New Modification of the Erdélyi–Kober Fractional Derivative
Authors: Odibat Zaid , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we introduce a new Caputo-type modification of the Erdélyi–Kober fractional derivative. We pay attention to how to formulate representations of Erdélyi–Kober fractional integral and derivatives operators. Then, some properties of the new modification and relationships with other Erdélyi–Kober fractional derivatives are derived. In addition, a numerical method is presented to deal with fractional differential equations involving the proposed Caputo-type Erdélyi–Kober fractional derivative. We hope the presented method will be widely applied to simulate such fractional models.
Well Posedness of New Optimization Problems with Variational Inequality Constraints
Authors: Treanţă Savin
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we studied the well posedness for a new class of optimization problems with variational inequality constraints involving second-order partial derivatives. More precisely, by using the notions of lower semicontinuity, pseudomonotonicity, hemicontinuity and monotonicity for a multiple integral functional, and by introducing the set of approximating solutions for the considered class of constrained optimization problems, we established some characterization results on well posedness. Furthermore, to illustrate the theoretical developments included in this paper, we present some examples.
DNA Intercalators Inhibit Eukaryotic Ribosomal RNA Synthesis by Impairing the Initiation of Transcription
Authors: Andrews William J. , Ray Swagat , Panova Tatiana , Engel Christoph , Panov Konstantin I.
Published: September 2021

In eukaryotes, ribosome biogenesis is driven by the synthesis of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) by RNA polymerase I (Pol-I) and is tightly linked to cell growth and proliferation. The 3D-structure of the rDNA promoter plays an important, yet not fully understood role in regulating rRNA synthesis. We hypothesized that DNA intercalators/groove binders could affect this structure and disrupt rRNA transcription. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the effect of a number of compounds on Pol-I transcription in vitro and in cells. We find that intercalators/groove binders are potent inhibitors of Pol-I specific transcription both in vitro and in cells, regardless of their specificity and the strength of its interaction with DNA. Importantly, the synthetic ability of Pol-I is unaffected, suggesting that these compounds are not targeting post-initiating events. Notably, the tested compounds have limited effect on transcription by Pol-II and III, demonstrating the hypersensitivity of Pol-I transcription. We propose that stability of pre-initiation complex and initiation are affected as result of altered 3D architecture of the rDNA promoter, which is well in line with the recently reported importance of biophysical rDNA promoter properties on initiation complex formation in the yeast system.
Familial Hypercholesterolemia Genetic Variations and Long-Term Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Hypercholesterolemia Who Underwent Coronary Angiography
Authors: Lee Wen-Jane , Chuang Han-Ni , Chen Yi-Ming , Liang Kae-Woei , Tung Hsin , Chen Jun-Peng , Lee I-Te , Wang Jun-Sing , Lin Ching-Heng , Lin Hsueh-Ju , Sheu Wayne Huey-Herng , Lee Wen-Lieng , Hsiao Tzu-Hung
Published: September 2021

Background: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) has been associated with early coronary artery disease (CAD) and increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, the prevalence of FH and its long-term outcomes in a CAD-high-risk cohort, defined as patients with hypercholesteremia who underwent coronary angiography, remains unknown. Besides, studies regarding the impact of genetic variations in FH on long-term cardiovascular (CV) outcomes are scarce. Methods and Results: In total, 285 patients hospitalized for coronary angiography with blood low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels ≥ 160 mg/dL were sequenced to detect FH genetic variations in LDL receptors apolipoprotein B and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9. Risk factors associated with long-term CV outcomes were evaluated. The prevalence of FH was high (14.4%). CAD and early CAD were significantly more prevalent among FH variation carriers than non-carriers, despite comparable blood LDL-C levels. Moreover, the FH variation carriers also underwent more revascularization after a mean follow-up of 6.1 years. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that FH genetic variation was associated with increased incidence of cardiovascular disease and mortality (odds ratio = 3.17, p = 0.047). Two common FH variants, LDLR c.986G>A and LDLR c.268G>A, showed the most significant impacts on high blood LDL-C levels and early-onset CAD. Conclusions: Our results indicate that FH genetic variants may exhibit differential effects on early-onset CAD and revascularization risks in patients undergoing coronary angiography. FH genetic information might help identify high-risk patients with typical CAD symptoms for appropriate intervention.
Investigation and Management of Apparently Sporadic Central Nervous System Haemangioblastoma for Evidence of Von Hippel–Lindau Disease
Authors: Furness Hugh , Salfity Louay , Devereux Johanna , Halliday Dorothy , Hanson Helen , Ruddy Deborah M. ,   UK VHL Study Group, Shah Neha , Sultana George , Woodward Emma R. , Sandford Richard N. , Snape Katie M. , Maher Eamonn R.
Published: September 2021

Haemangioblastomas are rare, highly vascularised tumours that typically occur in the cerebellum, brain stem and spinal cord. Up to a third of individuals with a haemangioblastoma will have von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease. Individuals with haemangioblastoma and underlying VHL disease present, on average, at a younger age and frequently have a personal or family history of VHL disease-related tumours (e.g., retinal or central nervous system (CNS) haemangioblastomas, renal cell carcinoma, phaeochromocytoma). However, a subset present an apparently sporadic haemangioblastoma without other features of VHL disease. To detect such individuals, it has been recommended that genetic testing and clinical/radiological assessment for VHL disease should be offered to patients with a haemangioblastoma. To assess “real-world” clinical practice, we undertook a national survey of clinical genetics centres. All participating centres responded that they would offer genetic testing and a comprehensive assessment (ophthalmological examination and CNS and abdominal imaging) to a patient presenting with a CNS haemangioblastoma. However, for individuals who tested negative, there was variability in practice with regard to the need for continued follow-up. We then reviewed the results of follow-up surveillance in 91 such individuals seen at four centres. The risk of developing a potential VHL-related tumour (haemangioblastoma or RCC) was estimated at 10.8% at 10 years follow-up. The risks of developing a recurrent haemangioblastoma were higher in those who presented <40 years of age. In the light of these and previous findings, we propose an age-stratified protocol for surveillance of VHL-related tumours in individuals with apparently isolated haemangioblastoma.
The Early Global Vocation of Rome. Worship, Culture and Beyond
Authors: Palazzo Anna Laura
Published: September 2021

In all likelihood, Rome was the first global city, holding such primacy for around two thousand years since the time when the Empire built strong integration and interdependence relationships with the whole oecumene. Against the backdrop of long-term beliefs powered by the Papacy, this paper highlights the main features of the global Rome as the very core of Christianity and, after several disruptive events from the Early Renaissance onwards, as a main destination of the Grand Tour. Making use of primary and secondary literature sources as well as of a substantial iconography, the paper investigates the interplay between power strategies and urban morphology—permanence/change—through two main lenses: (i) the ‘inertia’ over time of the radiocentric pattern of the Forma Urbis citywide, according to the old saying all roads lead to Rome; and, (ii) the relentless reuse processes over built-up areas and sense-making dynamics coupling tangible and intangible assets. Accordingly, the Città Antica and the Città Moderna would be intertwined in residents’ and visitors’ everyday experiences until the Age of Enlightenment, when a new sense of history was to require protection measures setting antiquities apart from city life. However, this is another story.
Oxygen Depletion Testing of Metals
Authors: Thickett David
Published: September 2021

The altered nature of archaeological metals means they deteriorate at much lower relative humidity (RH) conditions than historical metals. The study of deterioration for such materials is hampered by their complexity, variability and difficulties in measuring deterioration. Placing an object in a sealed container, controlling the RH and pollutant gases and measuring any decrease in oxygen concentration is an accessible method to measure the deterioration rate. It has been used for research into suitable environmental conditions to manage the deterioration rates of such artefacts, including the differences in the response of artefacts from different excavation sites. Some objects need the careful control of RH to low values; this is expensive to maintain and poses risks to other artefacts displayed together. Many objects are actually stable up to quite high RH values, and oxygen depletion testing has been used to identify those that can be safely displayed with minimal environmental control. The accelerated corrosion ‘Oddy’ test is frequently used to sift out unsuitable display materials. T the visual assessment is widely recognized to be subjective. the test container has been modified and oxygen depletion appears to give good quantitative measurements of corrosion that correspond with both visual comparison and corrosion loss measurement with linear stripping voltametry or chemical stripping for copper, lead and steel but not for silver.
Biostimulatory Action of Vegetal Protein Hydrolysate and the Configuration of Fruit Physicochemical Characteristics in Grafted Watermelon
Authors: Soteriou Georgios A. , Rouphael Youssef , Emmanouilidou Maria G. , Antoniou Chrystalla , Kyratzis Angelos C. , Kyriacou Marios C.
Published: September 2021

Foliar application of a vegetal-derived protein hydrolysate as a biostimulant was assessed for possible interaction with the ripening of diploid watermelon grafted onto interspecific hybrid rootstock. Assessment encompassed crop performance; fruit morphometric and sensory quality traits; soluble carbohydrates; macrominerals; and bioactive composition at 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 days post anthesis (dpa). The biostimulant effect on yield components was confounded by the vigorous rootstock effect. Pulp firmness declined precipitously with cell enlargement from 10 to 30 dpa, and the biostimulant phyto-hormonal potential on firmness and rind thickness was masked by grafting. Pulp colorimetry was determined solely by ripening and peaked at 40 dpa. The biostimulant effect reduced lycopene content by 8% compared to the control. Total sugars coevolved with soluble solids content, peaked at 30 dpa, and then stabilized. Fructose and glucose prevailed during rapid fruit growth from 10 to 30 dpa and sucrose prevailed at advanced ripeness between 40–50 dpa, whereas acidity peaked at 20 dpa and then decreased. Potassium, which was the most abundant micromineral, peaked before full ripeness at 30 dpa. The biostimulant effect on the watermelon fruit ripening process is not granted, at least regarding the conditions this study was carried out under. The absence of biostimulant effect might relate to rootstock vigorousness, the grafted watermelon physiology, or the type of biostimulant used.
Teacher-Rated School Leadership and Adolescent Gambling: A Study of Upper Secondary Schools in Stockholm, Sweden
Authors: Olsson Gabriella , Modin Bitte , Låftman Sara Brolin
Published: September 2021

So-called “effective schools” are characterised by properties such as a strong and purposeful school leadership and a favourable school ethos. In a previous study we showed that a school’s degree of teacher-rated ethos was inversely associated with student gambling and risk gambling. Building on these findings, the current study aims to examine the associations that teachers’ ratings of the school leadership share with gambling and risk gambling among students in the second grade of upper secondary school in Stockholm (age 17–18 years). Data were drawn from the Stockholm School Survey and the Stockholm Teacher Survey with information from 5191 students and 1061 teachers in 46 upper secondary schools. School-level information from administrative registers was also linked to the data. The statistical method was two-level binary logistic regression analysis. Teachers’ average ratings of the school leadership were inversely associated with both gambling (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93–0.998, p = 0.039) and risk gambling (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.89–0.99, p = 0.031) among upper secondary students, whilst adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics at the student and the school level. The findings lend further support to the hypothesis that characteristics of effective schools may reduce students’ inclination to engage in gambling and risk gambling behaviours.
Modelling Spatiotemporal Patterns of Lyme Disease Emergence in Québec
Authors: Tutt-Guérette Marc-Antoine , Yuan Mengru , Szaroz Daniel , McKinnon Britt , Kestens Yan , Guillot Camille , Leighton Patrick , Zinszer Kate
Published: September 2021

Lyme disease is a growing public health problem in Québec. Its emergence over the last decade is caused by environmental and anthropological factors that favour the survival of Ixodes scapularis, the vector of Lyme disease transmission. The objective of this study was to estimate the speed and direction of human Lyme disease emergence in Québec and to identify spatiotemporal risk patterns. A surface trend analysis was conducted to estimate the speed and direction of its emergence based upon the first detected case of Lyme disease in each municipality in Québec since 2004. A cluster analysis was also conducted to identify at-risk regions across space and time. These analyses were reproduced for the date of disease onset and date of notification for each case of Lyme disease. It was estimated that Lyme disease is spreading northward in Québec at a speed varying between 18 and 32 km/year according to the date of notification and the date of disease onset, respectively. A significantly high risk of disease was found in seven clusters identified in the south-west of Québec in the sociosanitary regions of Montérégie and Estrie. The results obtained in this study improve our understanding of the spatiotemporal patterns of Lyme disease in Québec, which can be used for proactive, targeted interventions by public and clinical health authorities.
Emotional Responses to the Visual Patterns of Urban Streets: Evidence from Physiological and Subjective Indicators
Authors: Zhang Zijiao , Zhuo Kangfu , Wei Wenhan , Li Fu , Yin Jie , Xu Liyan
Published: September 2021

Despite recent progress in the research of people’s emotional response to the environment, the built—rather than natural—environment’s emotional effects have not yet been thoroughly examined. In response to this knowledge gap, we recruited 26 participants and scrutinized their emotional response to various urban street scenes through an immersive exposure experiment using virtual reality. We utilized new physiological monitoring technologies that enable synchronized observation of the participants’ electroencephalography, electrodermal activity, and heart rate, as well as their subjective indicators. With the newly introduced measurement for the global visual patterns of the built environment, we built statistical models to examine people’s emotional response to the physical element configuration and color composition of street scenes. We found that more diverse and less fragmented scenes inspired positive emotional feelings. We also found (in)consistency among the physiological and subjective indicators, indicating a potentially interesting neural−physiological interpretation for the classic form−function dichotomy in architecture. Besides the practical implications on promoting physical environment design, this study combined objective physiology-monitoring technology and questionnaire-based research techniques to demonstrate a better approach to quantify environment−emotion relationships.
The Influence of Academic Emotions on Learning Effects: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tan Jing , Mao Jie , Jiang Yizhang , Gao Ming
Published: September 2021

Academic emotions can have different influences on learning effects, but these have not been systematically studied. In this paper, we objectively evaluate the influence of various academic emotions on learning effects and studied the relationship between positive and negative academic emotions and learning effects by using five electronic databases, including WOS, EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar. According to established standards, a total of 14 articles from 506 articles were included in the analysis. We divided the 14 studies into nine intervention studies and five observational studies; five of the nine intervention studies found that students who used active learning materials performed better and had higher mental loads than those who used neutral learning materials. Positive academic emotions promoted the learning effect. Four of the five observational studies with high school, college, and postgraduate participants reported that regulating academic emotions can improve learning effects. In conclusion, this paper holds that positive academic emotions are better than negative academic emotions at improving academic performance. In future research, a new method combining multichannel video observation, physiological data, and facial expression data is proposed to capture learners’ learning behavior in various learning environments.
Children’s Perceptions about Environmental Sustainability, Food, and Nutrition in Chile: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Fretes Gabriela , Sepúlveda Amapola , Corvalán Camila , Cash Sean B.
Published: September 2021

Food is inextricably linked to human health and environmental sustainability; however, very little is known about children’s perceptions of the concept of sustainability in the context of food choices. We aimed to explore the perceptions of Chilean schoolchildren about environmental sustainability, food, and nutrition. Eight online focus groups were conducted with boys and girls aged 8–9 (n = 30). Questions related to environmental sustainability, pocket money, and food characteristics such as price, front-of-package (FOP) warning label, and eco-labels were included. Data analysis was conducted using ATLAS.ti through a hybrid content analysis approach. Five central themes were identified: (1) children’s favorite snacks, (2) knowledge of sustainability, (3) sustainability and eco-labels use, (4) healthfulness of food products, and (5) pocket money and food prices. Most children were not aware of the meaning of “environmental sustainability”, but the concept was understood when it was explained in plain language. Participants showed awareness about the environmental impact of their eating behavior, had a positive perception of eco-labels, and identified food with fewer warning labels as “better” options. Results indicate that children understand the concept of sustainability in food if it is communicated clearly, and that eco-labels may be an effective tool in that effort.
Investigating the Feasibility of a Restaurant Delivery Service to Improve Food Security among College Students Experiencing Marginal Food Security, a Head-to-Head Trial with Grocery Store Gift Cards
Authors: Gamba Ryan J. , Wood Lana Mariko , Ampil Adianez , Engelman Alina , Lam Juleen , Schmeltz Michael T. , Pritchard Maria M. , Santillan Joshua Kier Adrian , Rivera Esteban S. , Ortiz Nancy , Ingram Darice , Cheyne Kate , Taylor Sarah
Published: September 2021

Restaurant delivery services have gained in popularity among college students; however, students participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are not allowed to redeem their benefits via restaurant delivery services. This mixed-methods head-to-head crossover trial assessed whether college students experiencing marginal food security prefer benefits via a grocery store gift card (as a proxy for traditional SNAP benefits) or via a restaurant delivery service gift card of equivalent value, and which type of benefit is more effective at improving food security status. Thirty college students experiencing marginal food security were recruited to receive $80 in cash equivalent benefits to spend over a two-month period in the form of grocery store gift cards and restaurant delivery service gift cards. Participants completed surveys and interviews to measure their food security status and share their experiences with each benefit type. After four months of benefits, 48.3% of participants improved their food security status. However, neither type of benefit was statistically better at improving food security status. Most participants preferred grocery store benefits (89.7%) over restaurant delivery service benefits (10.3%). However, more research is needed to explore whether allowing SNAP recipients to redeem their benefits with restaurant delivery services is a viable mechanism to address food challenges among college students experiencing marginal food security.
Organizing and Analyzing Data from the SHARE Study with an Application to Age and Sex Differences in Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Lusa Lara , Huebner Marianne
Published: September 2021

The SHARE study contains health, lifestyle, and socioeconomic data from individuals ages 50 and older in European countries collected over several waves. Leveraging these data for research purposes can be daunting due to the complex structure of the longitudinal design. The two aims of our study are (1) to develop a framework and R code for data management of the SHARE data to prepare for data analysis, and (2) to demonstrate how to apply the framework to a specific research question, where the aim is to model the presence of clinically significant depression assessed by the 12-item Europe depression scale. The result is a framework that substantially reduces the time to initiate research studies using SHARE data, facilitating the data extraction, data preparation and initial data analysis, with reproducible R code. Further, we illustrate the extensive work required to prepare an analysis-ready data set to ensure the validity of the modeling results. This underlines the importance of carefully considering and recording data management decisions that have to be built into the research process. The results about sex differences in the probability of depression are consistent with previous literature. Our findings about age-associated changes can be opportunities for adequate treatment interventions.
Understanding the Effect of Internal and External Factors on Households’ Willingness to Sort Waste in Dammam City, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Labib Ossama Ahmed , Manaf Latifah , Sharaai Amir Hamzah , Zaid Siti Sarah Mohamad
Published: September 2021

The acceleration of growth in the population in Saudi Arabia and the increase in municipal solid waste generation have caused a problem in Dammam city: an increase in solid waste production. Therefore, solid waste sorting is an important practice of municipal solid waste management. The main objectives in this research are understanding the effect of internal and external factors on household willingness in sorting waste in Dammam city and studying the attempts to construct a theoretical research model by adding market incentives, government facilitators, and awareness into the popular planned behaviour theory to explain residents’ waste sorting intentions. The data collection and analysis are based on the questionnaire study, which is based on the questionnaire survey data from 450 households in Dammam. This study revealed that social influence significantly predicts households’ willingness to sort and recycle, that is, to promote recycling. Additionally, the variable social influence has a significant but low influence on households’ willingness to sort and recycle. The result of the structural equation model shows that perceived behavioural control significantly predicts households’ willingness to sort and recycle waste. This finding is consistent with the theoretical expectation. Therefore, this research shows that attitude, social influence, perceived behavioural control, market incentives, government facilitators and awareness positively and significantly affect residents’ waste sorting intentions. Additionally, this research corroborates the discrepancy between internal and external variables.
Urban Nature and Public Health: How Nature Exposure and Sociocultural Background Relate to Depression Risk
Authors: Jakstis Kristen , Fischer Leonie K.
Published: September 2021

As the world’s population becomes more urbanized, there is an associated decrease in nature exposure and a rise in noncommunicable diseases, including depression. Previous cross-sectional studies examining urban nature exposure and depression have reported favorable associations. However, many of these studies rely primarily on nature exposure metrics that measure the intensity of nature exposure, while other dimensions of urban nature exposure remain understudied. Therefore, in a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based case study targeting a general urban population (n = 282), we examined the relationship between two less commonly studied urban nature exposure variables (i.e., gardening behavior and greenspace visit frequency) and depression risk while also considering sociocultural background (multivariate logistic regression model). Results indicated that being a gardener was significantly associated with a reduced odds of being at risk of depression and that having a family migration history, but not a self-migration history, was associated with increased odds of being at risk of depression. In the examination of neighborhood socialization frequency and depression risk, we did not determine any significant association. The results of this study, therefore, highlight the importance of considering both people’s sociocultural backgrounds and urban nature exposure in more detail to help plan for and support healthier cities in the future.
Maternal Stressful Life Events during Pregnancy and Atopic Dermatitis in Children Aged Approximately 4–6 Years
Authors: Senter Camilla C. , Bush Nicole R. , Loftus Christine T. , Szpiro Adam A. , Fitzpatrick Annette L. , Carroll Kecia N. , LeWinn Kaja Z. , Mason W. Alex , Sathyanarayana Sheela , Akingbade Oluwatobiloba A. , Karr Catherine J.
Published: September 2021

The prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children has steadily increased over time, yet it remains largely unknown how maternal factors during pregnancy are associated with child AD. Few studies have specifically assessed the relationship between prenatal stress and child AD, with inconsistent findings. In this prospective cohort study following 426 mother-child dyads from pregnancy to middle childhood, women reported stressful life events (SLEs) experienced during the 12 months before delivery and AD outcomes in children aged approximately 4–6 years, including current, location-specific, and ever AD. We used Poisson regression to estimate risk ratios (RRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) associated with a 1-unit increase in prenatal SLEs, adjusting for potential confounders. We also assessed whether the association between prenatal SLEs and child AD was modified by child sex, history of maternal atopy, or prenatal maternal resilient coping. The mean (standard deviation) of prenatal SLEs reported in the overall sample was 1.4 (1.6), with 37.1% of women reporting none. A 1-unit increase in prenatal SLEs was not significantly associated with current AD (RR: 1.08, 95% CI: 0.89, 1.31), location-specific AD (RR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.78, 1.52), or ever AD (RR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.87, 1.09). We did not find evidence of effect modification. Findings from this study suggest no association between prenatal SLEs and AD in middle childhood, although larger longitudinal studies with enhanced case definition and higher variability of SLE experience may more fully inform this question.
EKC Test of the Relationship between Nitrogen Dioxide Pollution and Economic Growth—A Spatial Econometric Analysis Based on Chinese City Data
Authors: Han Chengyu , Gu Zhaolin , Yang Hexiang
Published: September 2021

During the just concluded 13th Five-Year Plan, China continued to maintain the momentum of rapid economic development, but still faced environmental pollution problems caused by this. Finding the relationship between Nitrogen Dioxide pollution and economic development is helpful and significant in better achieving and optimizing sustainable environmental development. Taking China’s 333 prefecture-level cities as samples from 2016 to 2018, the spatial lag model (SAR) was used to study the impact of economic growth on urban Nitrogen Dioxide pollution. The results show that Nitrogen Dioxide has strong positive characteristics of spatial spillover, but there is a linear relationship between economic growth and Nitrogen Dioxide concentration that slowly rises, and there is no inverted U-shaped relationship, which does not support the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis; The results also show the impact of per capita GDP, natural gas consumption, residential natural gas consumption, industrialization, and transportation development on the increase of Nitrogen Dioxide concentration, and the impact of green coverage on the decrease of Nitrogen Dioxide concentration. However, there is no significant relationship between technological investment and Nitrogen Dioxide concentration. The above conclusions are still valid after the robustness test, and recommendations are put forward to reduce Nitrogen Dioxide pollution.
Psychological Vulnerability of French University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Four-Wave Longitudinal Survey
Authors: Charbonnier Elodie , Le Vigouroux Sarah , Goncalves Aurelie
Published: September 2021

Background: Many studies have highlighted the negative mental health consequences of lockdowns. However, to date, we do not know how these consequences change over time. The first objective of the present study was to track changes in adjustment strategies and clinical issues among French university students at different times of the pandemic. The second objective was to investigate the psychological and situational factors contributing to students’ anxiety and depressive symptoms. Method: This cohort study was conducted between 23 April and 11 December 2020. Measurements were performed four times: during France’s first national lockdown, during the period after lockdown, when universities were open, and finally during the second national lockdown. A total of 1294 university students were initially included, and 91 students completed the four measurement points over a 7-month period. Coping strategies (with the Brief-COPE), health concerns (with two questions), anxiety and depressive symptoms (with the HADS) were measured. Results: Results showed an evolution over time of anxiety (χ2 = 21.59 ***) and depressive (χ2 = 29.73 ***) symptoms. Depressive symptoms are significantly higher during lockdown periods compared to unlockdown periods. Anxiety symptoms are likewise particularly high during the two lockdowns, but also when the universities reopen. At different times, anxiety and depressive symptoms were positively associated with maladaptive strategies, such as the self-blame (rho between 0.33 and 0.51) and negatively with adaptive strategies, such as the positive reframing (rho between −0.23 and −0.44). Conclusions: The trajectory of anxiety, which is elevated even in the absence of lockdown, raises concerns about the long-term effects of the pandemic on these symptoms.
Practicing Sport in Cold Environments: Practical Recommendations to Improve Sport Performance and Reduce Negative Health Outcomes
Authors: Gatterer Hannes , Dünnwald Tobias , Turner Rachel , Csapo Robert , Schobersberger Wolfgang , Burtscher Martin , Faulhaber Martin , Kennedy Michael D.
Published: September 2021

Although not a barrier to perform sport, cold weather environments (low ambient temperature, high wind speeds, and increased precipitation, i.e., rain/water/snow) may influence sport performance. Despite the obvious requirement for practical recommendations and guidelines to better facilitate training and competition in such cold environments, the current scientific evidence-base is lacking. Nonetheless, this review summarizes the current available knowledge specifically related to the physiological impact of cold exposure, in an attempt to provide practitioners and coaches alike with practical recommendations to minimize any potential negative performance effects, mitigate health issues, and best optimize athlete preparation across various sporting disciplines. Herein, the review is split into sections which explore some of the key physiological effects of cold exposure on performance (i.e., endurance exercise capacity and explosive athletic power), potential health issues (short-term and long-term), and what is currently known with regard to best preparation or mitigation strategies considered to negate the potential negative effects of cold on performance. Specific focus is given to “winter” sports that are usually completed in cold environments and practical recommendations for physical preparation.
PM2.5 Pollutant Concentrations in Greenspaces of Nanjing Are High but Can Be Lowered with Environmental Planning
Authors: Yang Binghui , Chen Ye
Published: September 2021

Small-scale greenspaces in high-density central urban districts serve as important outdoor activity spaces for the surrounding residents, especially the elderly. This study selects six small-scale, popular greenspaces with distinct characteristics that are jointly situated along the same main urban artery in a high-density central urban district. Field investigations and questionnaires are conducted and combined with statistical analyses, to explore the spatial-temporal distribution and influencing factors of PM2.5 concentrations in these greenspaces. The study finds that the air quality conditions in the sites are non-ideal, and this has potential negative impacts on the health of the elderly visitors. Moreover, the difference values of PM2.5 concentrations’ spatial-temporal distributions are significantly affected by vehicle-related emissions, which have significant temporal characteristics. PM2.5 concentration is strongly correlated with percentage of green coverage (R = 0.82, p < 0.05), degree of airflow (R = −0.83, p < 0.05), humidity and comfort level (R = 0.54, p < 0.01 and R = −0.40, p < 0.01 respectively). Meanwhile, the sites’ “sky view factor” is strongly correlated with degree of airflow (R = 0.82, p < 0.05), and the comfort level plays an indirect role in the process of PM2.5 affecting crowd activities. Based on this analysis, an optimal set of index ranges for greenspace elements which are correlated with the best reduction in PM2.5 concentrations is derived. As such, this research reveals the technical methods to best reduce their concentrations and provides a basis and reference for improving the quality of small-scale greenspaces in high-density urban districts for the benefit of healthy aging.
Protective and Risk Factors in Exercise Addiction: A Series of Moderated Mediation Analyses
Authors: Gori Alessio , Topino Eleonora , Griffiths Mark D.
Published: September 2021

For a minority of individuals, exercise may become excessive and lead to an addictive behaviour. To better understand the processes by which exercise could become an addiction, the present study examined the risk and protective factors of exercise addiction among regular exercisers, by investigating the role of drive for thinness, bulimia, body dissatisfaction, body image concerns, and self-esteem. A sample of 319 Italian regular exercisers (Mage = 30.78 years, SD = 11.98) completed the Italian versions of the Exercise Addiction Inventory, Eating Disorder Inventory-3 Referral Form, Body Image Concern Inventory, and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Data were analyzed by implementing a series of moderated mediations. Drive for thinness, bulimia, and body dissatisfaction were positively associated with exercise addiction. An indirect path was found in each of these relationships, which included the mediation of body image concerns, as well as a significant moderation of self-esteem in the associations between drive for thinness, bulimia, body dissatisfaction, and the mediator. High self-esteem appeared to be a protective factor. The higher the level of self-esteem, the less indirect the effects of thinness drive, bulimia, body dissatisfaction, and body image concerns were on exercise addiction. Such findings contribute to a better understanding concerning the risk and protective factors of excessive exercise, and may have important practical implications in structuring interventions to reduce risk of developing exercise addiction, as well as orienting future research.
How Managers Perceive and (Do Not) Participate in Health Promotion Measures—Results from a Cross-Sectional Mixed-Methods Survey in a Large ICT Company
Authors: Schubin Kristina , Pfaff Holger , Zeike Sabrina
Published: September 2021

Managers often face stress and high work demands. Yet they have received limited attention as targets of workplace health promotion measures (HPMs). This study’s primary objective (1) is to examine managers’ self-reported participation in HPMs and factors associated with HPM participation. The secondary objective (2) is to examine managers’ perceptions of their working conditions. A cross-sectional mixed-methods online survey was conducted with a nonrandom sample of 179 managers in a large German ICT company. Stepwise logistic regression and qualitative content analysis were used for data analysis. Quantitative findings revealed that 57.9% of managers had not participated in HPMs yet. “Workload relief through digital tools” resulted as a significant predictor of managers’ previous HPM participation (OR: 2.84, 95% CI: 1.42–5.66). In qualitative findings, workload, time, lack of knowledge, and lack of demand were reported as participation barriers (1). Managers reported that work facility traits, workload, social support, and corporate culture should be improved to make their working conditions more health-promoting (2). These findings suggest that providing adequate organizational working conditions may help improve managers’ HPM participation rates and their perception of health-promoting work.
Workers with Cardiac AIMD Exposed to EMF: Methods and Case Studies for Risk Analysis in the Framework of the European Regulations
Authors: Mattei Eugenio , Censi Federica , Calcagnini Giovanni , Falsaperla Rosaria
Published: September 2021

Workers with cardiac active implantable medical devices (AIMD), such as a pacemaker (PM) or an implantable defibrillator (ICD), are considered by the occupational health and safety regulation framework as a particularly sensitive risk group that must be protected against the dangers caused by the interference of electromagnetic field (EMF). In this paper, we first describe the general methodology that shall be followed for the risk assessment of employees with a cardiac AIMD exposed to EMF, according to the EU regulation, and in particular to the EN 50527-2-1:2016 and 50527-2-2:2018 standards. Then, three case studies related to specific EMF sources are presented, to better describe how the initial analysis of the risk assessment can be performed in practice, and to understand if a further specific risk assessment analysis is required or not.
Lifestyle Habits and Exposure to BPA and Phthalates in Women of Childbearing Age from Northern Italy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Di Napoli Ilaria , Tagliaferri Sara , Sommella Eduardo , Salviati Emanuela , Porri Debora , Raspini Benedetta , Cena Hellas , Campiglia Pietro , La Rocca Cinzia , Cerbo Rosa Maria , De Giuseppe Rachele
Published: September 2021

Background: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are compounds that interfere with aspects of hormonal signaling. Considerable attention has been paid to their biological effects especially in women of childbearing age or during pregnancy as EDCs have been reported to cross the placenta becoming concentrated in the fetus’ circulation. Lifestyle habits, daily consumption of packaged foods and use of healthcare/cosmetic products are associated with increased EDCs levels. This cross-sectional research examined the EDCs levels and the lifestyle determinants of EDC exposure in a cohort of reproductive-age women from Northern Italy. Methods: Forty-five women (median age: 36, IQR: 30–38) were evaluated for urinary bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates levels and also studied for EDCs’ major determinants of daily exposure; food frequency/dietary, physical activity, smoking habits and weight status. Results: Although 100% of women seemed to have been exposed to common sources of EDCs, they reported a healthy lifestyle. The multivariable model described a positive and significant association between consumption of sauces/dressings in plastic containers and monoethyl phthalate exposure (p = 0.037). Conclusions: Since reproductive age encompasses a critical window for future health and functioning of the “mothers-to-be” and their children, future studies on prenatal dietary BPA and phthalate exposure and the role of consumer product choices in reducing such exposure are recommended.
Upregulation of CCL7, CCL20, CXCL2, IL-1β, IL-6 and MMP-9 in Skin Samples of PCB Exposed Individuals—A Preliminary Study
Authors: Leijs Marike , Fietkau Katharina , Merk Hans F. , Schettgen Thomas , Kraus Thomas , Esser André
Published: September 2021

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are well known immunotoxic and carcinogenic compounds. Although cutaneous symptoms are the hallmark of exposure to these compounds, exact pathophysiologic mechanisms are not well understood. We took skin biopsies from moderately high PCB exposed workers (n = 25) after an informed consent and investigated the expression of immunological markers such as CCL-7, CCL-20, CXCL2, IL-1β and IL-6, as well as the matrix metalloproteinase MMP-9, EPGN and NRF2 by RT-qPCR, and compared expression levels with plasma PCB levels. Statistical analyses showed a significant correlation between CCL-20, CXCL2, IL-6, IL-1β, CCL-7 and MMP-9 and PCB serum levels. EPGN and NRF2 were not correlated to PCB levels in the blood. We found a significant correlation of genes involved in autoimmune, auto-inflammatory and carcinogenesis in skin samples of PCB exposed individuals with elevated plasma PCB levels. Confirmation of these findings needs to be performed in bigger study groups and larger gen-sets, including multiple housekeeping genes. Further study needs to be performed to see whether a chronical exposure to these and similar compounds can cause higher incidence of malignancies and inflammatory disease.
Noncommunicable Disease Service Utilization among Expatriate Patients in Thailand: An Analysis of Hospital Service Data, 2014–2018
Authors: Khunakorncharatphong Anon , Pudpong Nareerut , Suphanchaimat Rapeepong , Julchoo Sataporn , Phaiyarom Mathudara , Sinam Pigunkaew
Published: September 2021

Global morbidity associated with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) has increased over the years. In Thailand, NCDs are among the most prevalent of all health problems, and affect both Thai citizens and non-Thai residents, such as expatriates. Key barriers to NCD health service utilization among expatriates include cultural and language differences. This study aimed to describe the situation and factors associated with NCD service utilizations among expatriate patients in Thailand. We employed a cross-sectional study design and used the service records of public hospitals from the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) during the fiscal years 2014–2018. The focus of this study was on expatriates or those who had stayed in Thailand for at least three months. The results showed that, after 2014, there was an increasing trend in NCD service utilizations among expatriate patients for both outpatient (OP) and inpatient (IP) care. For OP care, Cambodia, Laos PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam (CLMV) expatriates had fewer odds of NCD service utilization, relative to non-CLMV expatriates (p-value < 0.001). For IP care, males tended to have greater odds of NCD service utilization compared with females (AdjOR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.05–1.74, p-value = 0.019). Increasing age showed a significant association with NCD service utilization. In addition, there was a growing trend of the NCD prevalence amongst expatriate patients. This issue points to a need for prompt public health actions if Thailand aims to have all people on its soil protected with universal health coverage for their well-being, as stipulated in the Sustainable Development Goals. Future studies that aim to collect primary evidence of expatriates at the household level should be conducted. Additional research on other societal factors that may help provide a better insight into access to healthcare for NCDs, such as socioeconomic status, beliefs, and attitudes, should be conducted.
Changes in Substance Use and Mental Health Burden among Women during the Second Wave of COVID-19 in Germany
Authors: Schecke Henrike , Fink Madeleine , Bäuerle Alexander , Skoda Eva-Maria , Schweda Adam , Musche Venja , Dinse Hannah , Weismüller Benjamin Maurice , Moradian Sheila , Scherbaum Norbert , Teufel Martin
Published: September 2021

Unlike men, who are disproportionately affected by severe disease progression and mortality from COVID-19, women may be more affected by the economic, social and psychological consequences of the pandemic. Psychological distress and mental health problems are general risk factors for increases in the use of alcohol and other substances as a dysfunctional coping mechanism. Methods: An analysis was carried out of the female subset (n = 2153) of a population-based, cross-sectional online survey (October–December 2020), covering the “second wave” of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Results: Among women, 23% increased their alcohol use, 28.4% increased their nicotine use and 44% increased their illicit substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty percent reported major depressive symptoms and 23.4% symptoms of generalized anxiety. Generalized anxiety proved to be a significant predictor of increases in alcohol and nicotine use in logistic regression. Discussion: The mental health burden remained high during the second wave of COVID-19 and alcohol, nicotine and other substance use increased. However, the association between mental health and substance use was weak. Psychological distress does not seem to be the main motivator of substance use.