bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Named Data Networking Based Disaster Response Support System over Edge Computing Infrastructure
Authors: Tran Minh-Ngoc , Kim Younghan
Published: February 2021

After a disaster happens, effective communication and information sharing between emergency response team members play a crucial role in a successful disaster response phase. With dedicated roles and missions are assigned to responders, role-based communication is a pivotal feature that an emergency communication network needs to support. Previous works have shown that Named Data Networking (NDN) has many advantages over traditional IP-based networks in providing this feature. However, these studies are only simulation-based. To apply NDN in disaster scenarios, real implementation of a deployment architecture over existing infrastructure during the disaster should be considered. Not only should it ensure efficient emergency communication, but the architecture should deal with other disaster-related challenges such as responder mobility, intermittent network, and replacement possibility due to disaster damage. In this paper, we designed and implemented an NDN-based disaster response support system over Edge Computing infrastructure with KubeEdge as the chosen edge platform to solve the above issues. Our proof-of-concept system performance shows that the architecture achieved efficient role-based communication support, fast mobility handover duration, quick network convergence time in case of node replacement, and loss-free information exchange between responders and the management center on the cloud.
Influence of Common Source and Word Line Electrodes on Program Operation in SuperFlash Memory
Authors: Mazzetta Ivan , Irrera Fernanda
Published: February 2021

A theoretical study of the influence of word line and common source electrodes on the program operation in shrank SuperFlash memory is proposed. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the literature model defined for previous nodes is not always suitable, due to the continuous cell physical size reduction and to the consequent increment of capacitive coupling between the floating gate and adjacent electrodes. To get a deeper insight, an analytical model of the electric field in the region of source side injection is proposed. This model describes the impact of the cell physical and electrical parameters on the vertical and horizontal field components and highlights the strong dependence of the carrier injection on the technology node. Furthermore, the numerical and analytical models estimate the influence of the word line and common source electrodes on the time-to-program, the floating gate potential and the source side injection efficiency, taking into consideration, at the same time, their possible impact on the cell reliability.
Influence of Selected Factors on Thermal Parameters of the Components of Forced Cooling Systems of Electronic Devices
Authors: Posobkiewicz Krzysztof , Górecki Krzysztof
Published: February 2021

The paper presents some investigation results on the properties of forced cooling systems dedicated to electronic devices. Different structures of such systems, including Peltier modules, heat sinks, fans, and thermal interfaces, are considered. Compact thermal models of such systems are formulated. These models take into account a multipath heat transfer and make it possible to compute waveforms of the device’s internal temperature at selected values of the power dissipated in the device. The analytical formulas describing the dependences of the thermal resistance of electronic devices co-operating with the considered cooling systems on the power dissipated in the cooled electronic device and the power feeding the Peltier module and the speed of airflow caused by a fan are proposed. The correctness of the proposed models is verified experimentally in a wide range of powers dissipated in electronic devices operating in different configurations of the used cooling system.
Digital Forensics Analysis of Ubuntu Touch on PinePhone
Authors: Keim Yansi , Yoon Yung Han , Karabiyik Umit
Published: February 2021

New smartphones made by small companies enter the technology market everyday. These new devices introduce new challenges for mobile forensic investigators as these devices end up becoming pertinent evidence during an investigation. One such device is the PinePhone from Pine Microsystems (Pine64). These new devices are sometimes also shipped with OSes that are developed by open source communities and are otherwise never seen by investigators. Ubuntu Touch is one of these OSes and is currently being developed for deployment on the PinePhone. There is little research behind both the device and OS on what methodology an investigator should follow to reliably and accurately extract data. This results in potentially flawed methodologies being used before any testing can occur and contributes to the backlog of devices that need to be processed. Therefore, in this paper, the first forensic analysis of the PinePhone device with Ubuntu Touch OS is performed using Autopsy, an open source tool, to establish a framework that can be used to examine and analyze devices running the Ubuntu Touch OS. The findings include analysis of artifacts that could impact user privacy and data security, organization structure of file storage, app storage, OS, etc. Moreover, locations within the device that stores call logs, SMS messages, images, and videos are reported. Interesting findings include forensic artifacts, which could be useful to investigators in understanding user activity and attribution. This research will provide a roadmap to the digital forensic investigators to efficiently and effectively conduct their investigations where they have Ubuntu Touch OS and/or PinePhone as the evidence source.
Energy and Greenhouse Gas Savings for LEED-Certified U.S. Office Buildings
Authors: Scofield John , Brodnitz Susannah , Cornell Jakob , Liang Tian , Scofield Thomas
Published: February 2021

In this work, we present results from the largest study of measured, whole-building energy performance for commercial LEED-certified buildings, using 2016 energy use data that were obtained for 4417 commercial office buildings (114 million m2) from municipal energy benchmarking disclosures for 10 major U.S. cities. The properties included 551 buildings (31 million m2) that we identified as LEED-certified. Annual energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission were compared between LEED and non-LEED offices on a city-by-city basis and in aggregate. In aggregate, LEED offices demonstrated 11% site energy savings but only 7% savings in source energy and GHG emission. LEED offices saved 26% in non-electric energy but demonstrated no significant savings in electric energy. LEED savings in GHG and source energy increased to 10% when compared with newer, non-LEED offices. We also compared the measured energy savings for individual buildings with their projected savings, as determined by LEED points awarded for energy optimization. This analysis uncovered minimal correlation, i.e., an R2 < 1% for New Construction (NC) and Core and Shell (CS), and 8% for Existing Euildings (EB). The total measured site energy savings for LEED-NC and LEED-CS was 11% lower than projected while the total measured source energy savings for LEED-EB was 81% lower than projected. Only LEED offices certified at the gold level demonstrated statistically significant savings in source energy and greenhouse gas emissions as compared with non-LEED offices.
Spatial Distribution of Forest Ecosystem Service Benefits in Germany: A Multiple Benefit-Transfer Model
Authors: Elsasser Peter , Altenbrunn Kerstin , Köthke Margret , Lorenz Martin , Meyerhoff Jürgen
Published: February 2021

We investigate the economic benefits of fundamental forest ecosystem services (FES) for the population in Germany at national level in monetary terms and estimate the spatial distribution of these benefits at county level. Specifically, we consider the benefits of timber production, of global climate protection due to carbon sequestration, of recreation for local residents, and of services for nature protection and landscape amenity. Combining information from official statistics and data from valuation studies that are compatible with economic demand theory, we identify spatial drivers of FES benefits and derive generic valuation functions for each of the services. Using a Geographic Information System, these valuation functions are applied to the conditions in the Local Administrative Units (municipalities), resulting in Benefit Function Transfer estimates for each service and each municipality. Afterwards, results are aggregated to NUTS-3 level (counties) and mapped. Aggregate annual benefits of timber production to society as a whole, of climate protection and of recreation services together exceed the ten billion Euro mark—far more than what is reflected in market statistics. Scenarios illustrate the potential for enhancing nature protection benefits particularly by restoring forest biodiversity, as measured by an avifaunistic indicator. The spatial analysis reveals distinct distributional patterns for each of the services. We conclude that a spatially explicit valuation for an entire country is possible even with limited data, which can help policy makers improve the institutional setting in a way that the protection and use of the forests become more sustainable and efficient. After pointing at several caveats, we finally suggest various possibilities for further model development.
Raman Assisted Fiber Optical Parametric Amplifier for S-Band Multichannel Transmission System
Authors: Supe Andis , Zakis Kaspars , Gegere Lilita , Redka Dmitrii , Porins Jurgis , Spolitis Sandis , Bobrovs Vjaceslavs
Published: February 2021

In this paper we present results from the study of optical signal amplification using Raman assisted fiber optical parametric amplifier with considerable benefits for S-band telecommunication systems where the use of widely used erbium-doped fiber amplifier is limited. We have created detailed models and performed computer simulations of combined Raman and fiber optical parametric amplification in a 16-channel 40 Gbps/channel wavelength division multiplexed transmission system. Achieved gain bandwidth, as well as transmission system parameters—signal-to-noise ratio and bit-error-ratio—were analyzed by comparing the Raman assisted fiber optical parametric amplifier to the single pump fiber optical parametric amplifier. Results show that the 3 dB gain bandwidth in the case of combined amplification is up to 0.2 THz wider with 1.9 dB difference between the lowest and highest gain.
Mechanical Properties of Phormium Tenax Reinforced Natural Rubber Composites
Authors: Palanisamy Sivasubramanian , Mayandi Kalimuthu , Palaniappan Murugesan , Alavudeen Azeez , Rajini Nagarajan , Vannucchi de Camargo Felipe , Santulli Carlo
Published: February 2021

The introduction of natural fibers as a filler in a natural rubber (NR) matrix can be of relevance for their eco-friendly and sustainable nature as the substitute for carbon-based fillers. In this work, short Phormium tenax fibers were introduced in random orientation into a NR matrix in different lengths (6, 10, and 14 mm) and various amounts (10, 20, and 30%, taking 100 as the NR weight). The composite was fabricated using a two-roll mill according to American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D3184-11 standard. Several properties were determined, namely tensile and tear characteristics, hardness, and abrasion resistance. The results suggest that the shortest fiber length used, 6 mm, offered the best combination between loss of mechanical (tensile and tear) properties and hardness and the most acceptable resistance to abrasion, with the properties increasing with the amount of fibers present in NR. As a consequence, it is indicated that a higher amount of fibers could be possibly introduced, especially to achieve harder composites, though this would require a more controlled mixing process not excessively reducing tensile elongation at break.
Volatilome and Bioaccessible Phenolics Profiles in Lab-Scale Fermented Bee Pollen
Authors: Filannino Pasquale , Di Cagno Raffaella , Gambacorta Giuseppe , Tlais Ali Zein Alabiden , Cantatore Vincenzo , Gobbetti Marco
Published: February 2021

Bee-collected pollen (BCP) is currently receiving increasing attention as a dietary supplement for humans. In order to increase the accessibility of nutrients for intestinal absorption, several biotechnological solutions have been proposed for BCP processing, with fermentation as one of the most attractive. The present study used an integrated metabolomic approach to investigate how the use of starter cultures may affect the volatilome and the profile of bioaccessible phenolics of fermented BCP. BCP fermented with selected microbial starters (Started-BCP) was compared to spontaneously fermented BCP (Unstarted-BCP) and to unprocessed raw BCP (Raw-BCP). Fermentation significantly increased the amount of volatile compounds (VOC) in both Unstarted- and Started-BCP, as well as modifying the relative proportions among the chemical groups. Volatile free fatty acids were the predominant VOC in Unstarted-BCP. Started-BCP was differentiated by the highest levels of esters and alcohols, although volatile free fatty acids were always prevailing. The profile of the VOC was dependent on the type of fermentation, which was attributable to the selected Apilactobacillus kunkeei and Hanseniaspora uvarum strains used as starters, or to the variety of yeasts and bacteria naturally associated to the BCP. Started-BCP and, to a lesser extent, Unstarted-BCP resulted in increased bioaccessible phenolics, which included microbial derivatives of phenolic acids metabolism.
Comparative Evaluation of Brandy de Jerez Aged in American Oak Barrels with Different Times of Use
Authors: Valcárcel-Muñoz Manuel J. , Guerrero-Chanivet María , García-Moreno M. Valme , Rodríguez-Dodero M. Carmen , Guillén-Sánchez Dominico A.
Published: February 2021

Brandy de Jerez is a European Geographical Indication for grape-derived spirits aged in oak casks that have previously contained any kind of Sherry wine and, therefore, are known as Sherry Casks®. Wood compounds have a substantial influence in the quality of the brandies that are aged in the barrels. In the cellar, the barrels that have been used for many years to keep Sherry wine or other wine spirits are often used for this purpose. When wooden barrels are used for the first time, they release a large amount of compounds into the liquid contained in them. Such amount decreases over time but casks life cycle has remained unexplored until now. The present work has the aim to study the brandies obtained from the same wine spirit after two years ageing in three differently oak casks: namely new, 7 years of use (4 years containing Oloroso wine and 3 years containing wine spirits) and 32 years of use (8 years containing Oloroso wine and 24 years containing wine spirits). According to the results from our experiments, even after 32 years of use, the wood barrels still contribute to modify the organoleptic characteristics of brandy. Moreover, the brandies aged in used barrels were judged more balanced than those aged in new barrels.
Assessment of Chokeberry Powders Quality Obtained Using an Innovative Fluidized-Bed Jet Milling and Drying Method with Pre-Drying Compared with Convection Drying
Authors: Sadowska Anna , Świderski Franciszek , Hallmann Ewelina , Świąder Katarzyna
Published: February 2021

There is a need and great interest among food producers in obtaining powders from fruit and vegetables of both high nutritional value and sensory qualities superior to those hitherto obtained by convection drying (CD) and spray drying methods and cheaper to prepare than the sublimation method. This study is focused on whether powders can be obtained from fruit berries with a sticky structure, using the chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) as a test example, by a combined fluidized-bed jet milling and drying (FBJD) of pre-dried fruit by CD to an adequate water activity (aw). The pre-drying step reduced sticking between fruit particles during the simultaneous drying and grinding processes of the FBJD method in order to obtain powders of desired granulation. Three different pre-drying temperatures of 50, 60, and 70 °C were tested for levels of microorganisms in chokeberries at a water activity of 0.4. Vitamin C content and antioxidant properties were also examined along with polyphenol separation. Fruit pre-dried at 60–70 °C had significantly higher vitamin C and polyphenolic content and greater antioxidant properties than those pre-dried at 50 °C. Further studies were thus undertaken on powders pre-dried at 70 °C in which antioxidant properties, vitamin C, and polyphenols content were also compared with CD obtained powders. The FBJD method combined with CD pre-drying proved superior to just using the CD method, where powders had a greater preservation of vitamin C at 84% (CD powders 35%), a 12% higher total polyphenol content, and a 10% higher antioxidant activity. The test method also uses a much shorter drying time than the CD method, because the grinding of the hard-textured material takes only few minutes.
A Rapid Crosslinkable Maleimide-Modified Hyaluronic Acid and Gelatin Hydrogel Delivery System for Regenerative Applications
Authors: Yoo Kyung Min , Murphy Sean V. , Skardal Aleksander
Published: February 2021

Hydrogels have played a significant role in many applications of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering due to their versatile properties in realizing design and functional requirements. However, as bioengineered solutions are translated towards clinical application, new hurdles and subsequent material requirements can arise. For example, in applications such as cell encapsulation, drug delivery, and biofabrication, in a clinical setting, hydrogels benefit from being comprised of natural extracellular matrix-based materials, but with defined, controllable, and modular properties. Advantages for these clinical applications include ultraviolet light-free and rapid polymerization crosslinking kinetics, and a cell-friendly crosslinking environment that supports cell encapsulation or in situ crosslinking in the presence of cells and tissue. Here we describe the synthesis and characterization of maleimide-modified hyaluronic acid (HA) and gelatin, which are crosslinked using a bifunctional thiolated polyethylene glycol (PEG) crosslinker. Synthesized products were evaluated by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), ultraviolet visibility spectrometry, size exclusion chromatography, and pH sensitivity, which confirmed successful HA and gelatin modification, molecular weights, and readiness for crosslinking. Gelation testing both by visual and NMR confirmed successful and rapid crosslinking, after which the hydrogels were characterized by rheology, swelling assays, protein release, and barrier function against dextran diffusion. Lastly, biocompatibility was assessed in the presence of human dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes, showing continued proliferation with or without the hydrogel. These initial studies present a defined, and well-characterized extracellular matrix (ECM)-based hydrogel platform with versatile properties suitable for a variety of applications in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
Phenotypic and Genomic Analysis of Cystic Hygroma in Pigs
Authors: Letko Anna , Schauer Alexandria Marie , Derks Martijn F. L. , Grau-Roma Llorenç , Drögemüller Cord , Grahofer Alexander
Published: February 2021

Cystic hygroma is a malformation of the lymphatic and vascular system and is recognized as a benign congenital tumor that affects humans and animals in the perinatal period. This congeni-tal disorder is rarely described in animals, and until today, cystic hygroma in pigs has not been described in the literature. In a purebred Piètrain litter with twelve live-born piglets, cystic hy-groma was noticed on the rump of two male pigs within the first week of life. In addition, a third case of a crossbred weaner (Large White × Landrace) was detected during a herd examina-tion. To rule out common differential diagnoses, e.g., abscess or hematoma, further clinical and pathological investigations were conducted. During clinical examination, a painless and soft mass, which was compressible, was detected on the rump of all affected animals. The ultra-sonographic examination revealed a fluid-filled and cavernous subcutaneous structure. In addi-tion, a puncture of the cyst was conducted, revealing a serosanguinous fluid with negative bacte-riological culture. In all cases, a necropsy was performed, showing that the animals had fluid-filled cysts lined by well-differentiated lymphatic endothelium. Based on the clinicopathological examination, cystic hygroma was diagnosed. Furthermore, SNP array genotyping and whole-genome sequencing was performed and provided no evidence for a chromosomal disorder. In the Piètrain family, several genome regions were homozygous in both affected piglets. None-theless, a dominant acting de novo germline variant could not be ruled out, and therefore differ-ent filtering strategies were used to find pathogenic variants. The herein presented lists of pri-vate variants after filtering against hundreds of control genomes provide no plausible candidate and no shared variants among the two sequenced cases. Therefore, further studies are needed to evaluate possible genetic etiology. In general, systematic surveillance is needed to identify ge-netic defects as early as possible and to avoid the occurrence of losses in the pig population.
The In Silico Identification of Potential Members of the Ded1/DDX3 Subfamily of DEAD-Box RNA Helicases from the Protozoan Parasite Leishmania infantum and Their Analyses in Yeast
Authors: Mokdadi Molka , Abdelkrim Yosser Zina , Banroques Josette , Huvelle Emmeline , Oualha Rafeh , Yeter-Alat Hilal , Guizani Ikram , Barhoumi Mourad , Tanner N. Kyle
Published: February 2021

DEAD-box RNA helicases are ubiquitous proteins found in all kingdoms of life and that are associated with all processes involving RNA. Their central roles in biology make these proteins potential targets for therapeutic or prophylactic drugs. The Ded1/DDX3 subfamily of DEAD-box proteins is of particular interest because of their important role(s) in translation. In this paper, we identified and aligned the protein sequences of 28 different DEAD-box proteins from the kinetoplast-protozoan parasite Leishmania infantum, which is the cause of the visceral form of leishmaniasis that is often lethal if left untreated, and compared them with the consensus sequence derived from DEAD-box proteins in general, and from the Ded1/DDX3 subfamily in particular, from a wide variety of other organisms. We identified three potential homologs of the Ded1/DDX3 subfamily and the equivalent proteins from the related protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, which is the causative agent of sleeping sickness. We subsequently tested these proteins for their ability to complement a yeast strain deleted for the essential DED1 gene. We found that the DEAD-box proteins from Trypanosomatids are highly divergent from other eukaryotes, and consequently they are suitable targets for protein-specific drugs.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Humanities in 2020
Authors:   Humanities Editorial Office
Published: February 2021

Peer review is an essential part in the publication process, ensuring that Humanities maintains high quality standards for its published papers [...]
Periodontal Treatment Needs of Hemodialized Patients
Authors: Trzcionka Agata , Twardawa Henryk , Mocny-Pachońska Katarzyna , Tanasiewicz Marta
Published: February 2021

End-stage renal failure is the reason for complications in many systems and organs, and the applied pharmacotherapy often causes the deepening of already existing pathologies within the oral cavity, such as: caries, periodontal diseases, mucosal lesions or reduced saliva secretion. Reduced saliva secretion results in an increased accumulation of dental plaque, its mineralization and prolonged retention, which leads to the development of gingival and periodontal inflammation. There is some evidence that chronic kidney diseases are influenced by periodontal health. The aim of the work was to evaluate the dental needs by the usage of clinical assessment of periodontal tissues of patients suffering from end-stage chronic kidney disease, arterial hypertension or/and diabetes mellitus. Material and methods: 228 patients underwent the research. 180 patients were hemodialized in Diaverum dialysis stations (42 of them were diagnosed with end stage chronic disease, 79 with the end stage chronic disease and arterial hypertension, 16 with end stage chronic kidney disease and diabetes, 43 with end-stage chronic disease, arterial hypertension and diabetes) and 48 patients of the Conservative Dentistry with Endodontics Clinic of Academic Centre of Dentistry of Silesian Medical University in Bytom and patients of the dentistry division of Arnika Clinic in Zabrze not diagnosed with any of the aforementioned diseases. The scheme of the research comprised 2 parts: analysis of the general health and assessment of the periodontal status which contain the following indices: Periodontal Probing Depth (PPD), Clinical Attachment Lost (CAL), Bleeding Index or Bleeding on Probing Index (BI or BOP), Community Periodontal Index for Treatment Needs (CPITN). Results: Significantly lower percentage of patients with healthy periodontal tissues and higher percentage with periodontal pockets deeper than 3.5 mm and the loss of trainers connective of 5 mm or higher were in the examined group. The values of the bleeding index were significantly lower in control group. The analysis of the CPITN index indicates higher percentage of patients qualified as CPI 1 or 2 in the control group while in the examined one most of the patients turned out to require specialist periodontal treatment. Conclusions: there is a direct relationship between periodontal status and end-stage renal disease which typically includes other chronical civilization ailments. It is important to develop a scheme for the easy and rapid examination of periodontal status, to determine the treatment needs in this area, which will allow precise assignment of long-term dialyzed patients to the range of prophylactic and therapeutic procedures.
Does Young Adults’ Neighborhood Environment Affect Their Depressive Mood? Insights from the 2019 Korean Community Health Survey
Authors: Yim Da-Hye , Kwon Youngsang
Published: February 2021

The rates of depression among young adults have been increasing in high-income countries and have emerged as a social problem in South Koreans aged 19–34. However, the literature is unclear on whether the neighborhood environment that young adults live in affects the onset and severity of their depressive symptoms. This study analyzed data from the 2019 Korean Community Health Survey (KCHS) using the Tobit model to identify the effect of the neighborhood environment on young adults’ depressive moods. Controlling for other corresponding factors, young adults’ neighborhood environment satisfaction affected their depression, and natural environment satisfaction (32.5%), safety level satisfaction (31.0%), social overhead capital (SOC), environment satisfaction (30.2%), trust between neighbors satisfaction (20.1%), and public transportation environmental satisfaction (12.2%) affected young adults’ depressive moods. Of these, natural environment satisfaction (32.5%), safety level environment satisfaction (31.0%), and SOC environment satisfaction (30.2%) affected young adults’ depressive mood to a similar extent. This implies that many young adults in South Korea live in inadequate neighborhood conditions. This research contributes to the literature by identifying the specific environmental factors that affect young adults’ depressive moods.
Nutritional and 13-Week Subchronic Toxicological Evaluation of Lignosus rhinocerotis Mycelium in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Li I-Chen , Yang Bi-Hua , Lin Jing-Yi , Lin Shan , Chen Chin-Chu
Published: February 2021

Lignosus rhinocerotis (Tiger’s Milk mushroom) is a novel mushroom with sclerotium belonging to the Polyporaceae family and has been reported widely to possess anti-cancer, anti-cough, antioxidant, gastro-protective, immuno-modulating, and neurite-stimulating properties. As numerous studies have proven the tremendous medicinal values of L. rhinocerotis, it is necessary to understand its nutrition as well as its safety for the recipient. Previous research on L. rhinocerotis has mainly focused on the naturally occurring sclerotium and may have overlooked mushroom mycelia from submerged liquid fermentation, which ensures a high uniform quantitative biomass production as well as a high biological value. Hence, this is the first report on the evaluation of nutrition and 13-week repeated oral toxicity of L. rhinocerotis mycelium (LRM). The LRM powder contained 9.0 ± 4.2% moisture, 1.9 ± 1.3% ash, 1.6 ± 2.2% crude lipid, 8.4 ± 5.3% crude protein, 79.3 ± 4.6% carbohydrate, and 364 kcal/100 g energy. The total free amino acid ranged from 349 to 5636 mg/100 g and the umami index of freeze-dried LRM powder was 0.37. For safety assessment, ninety-six rats were divided into four groups, each consisting of twelve male and twelve female rats. Test articles were administered by oral gavage to rats at 850, 1700, and 3400 mg/kg body weight/day for 13 weeks and reverse osmosis water was used as the control. All animals survived to the end of the study. During the experiment period, no abnormal changes were observed in clinical signs, body weight, or ophthalmological examinations. No adverse or test article-related differences were found in urinalysis, hematology, or serum biochemistry parameters between the treatment and control groups. Necropsy and histopathological examination indicated no treatment-related changes. According to the above results, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of L. rhinocerotis was identified to be greater than 3400 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day in Sprague–Dawley rats.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Southeast Asia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kunasegaran Thubasni , Balasubramaniam Vinod R. M. T. , Arasoo Valliammai Jayanthi Thirunavuk , Palanisamy Uma Devi , Ramadas Amutha
Published: February 2021

A rapid increase in the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has been associated with various factors such as urbanization, lifestyle changes, adverse hyperglycemic intrauterine environment, and the resulting epigenetic changes. Despite this, the burden of GDM has not been well-assessed in Southeast Asia. We comprehensively reviewed published Southeast Asian studies to identify the current research trend in GDM in this region. Joanna Briggs Institute’s methodology was used to guide the scoping review. The synthesis of literature findings demonstrates almost comparable clinical evidence in terms of risk factors and complications, challenges presented in diagnosing GDM, and its disease management, given the similarities of the underlying population characteristics in Southeast Asia. Evidence suggests that a large proportion of GDM risk in women may be preventable by lifestyle modifications. However, the GDM burden across countries is expected to rise, given the heterogeneity in screening approaches and diagnostic criteria, mainly influenced by economic status. There is an urgent need for concerted efforts by government and nongovernmental sectors to implement national programs to prevent, manage, and monitor the disease.
Are You Prepared to Save a Life? Nursing Students’ Experience in Advanced Life Support Practice
Authors: Gutiérrez-Puertas Lorena , Márquez-Hernández Verónica V. , Gutiérrez-Puertas Vanesa , Rodríguez-García Mª Carmen , García-Viola Alba , Aguilera-Manrique Gabriel
Published: February 2021

The objective of this study was to explore the experiences and perceptions of nursing students after applying advanced life support techniques on a hospitalised patient in cardiac arrest in a simulated setting. A qualitative descriptive phenomenological study was conducted. Fifty-four nursing students from the University of Almería (Spain) participated. Three main themes and six subthemes were identified, which illustrate the experiences and perceptions of nursing students about performing advanced life support. The main themes were: (1) Analysing practice as part of the learning process, with the subthemes “working in an unknown environment” and “acquiring knowledge as the key to success”; (2) Facing reality: nursing students’ perceptions of an emergency situation, with the subthemes “facing stressful elements” and “emotional impact in emergency situations”; (3) Experience as a key element to integrating advanced life support into the healthcare setting, with the subthemes “discovering and facing the experience as a team” and “linking and transferring the situation to a real clinical setting”. The nursing students reported that the process of practising for an emergency situation through simulation was a fundamental part of their training, as it allowed them to acquire skills necessary for emergency situations and improve their clinical performance in advanced life support. In addition, they considered the experience a key element in integrating advanced life support into the healthcare setting. The results of this study highlight the need to develop and implement training programs focused on clinical and teamwork skills in nursing programs.
Gender Differences in the Risk of Ischemic Heart Disease According to Healthcare Utilization and Medication Adherence among Newly Treated Korean Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Shin Jiae , Ham Dongwoo , Paik Hee Young , Shin Sangah , Joung Hyojee
Published: February 2021

We aimed to investigate gender differences in ischemic heart disease (IHD) according to healthcare utilization and medication adherence among newly treated Korean hypertensive adults. The National Sample Cohort version 2.0 of the National Health Insurance Service was used for analysis. Newly treated hypertensive patients ≥ 20 years and without IHD in 2002 were selected from a population that underwent health examination during 2003–2006. Of those patients, 11,942 men and 11,193 women were analyzed and followed up for 10 years. We determined the association between IHD and healthcare utilization and medication adherence using the Cox proportional hazards model. Hypertensive women patients had a lower risk of IHD than men patients (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.88–1.00). The IHD risk was increased in patients who visited healthcare providers > 12 times/person-year (HR = 2.97, 95% CI 2.79–3.17), paid high out-of-pocket expense/person-year (HR = 1.55, 95% CI 1.41–1.69), and had medication nonadherence (HR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.58–1.77). However, the risk was decreased in patients who used both urban and rural areas (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.67–0.84) and mixed types of providers (HR = 0.93, CI 0.88–0.99). The risk of IHD was significantly different between men and women only in the visiting frequency to healthcare providers (men, HR = 3.21, 95% CI 2.93–3.52; women, HR = 2.78, 95% CI 2.53–3.04, p for interaction = 0.0188). In summary, the risk of IHD was similar according to healthcare utilization and medication adherence between men and women, except visiting frequency to healthcare providers.
Preliminary Study on the Effect of an Early Physical Therapy Intervention after Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: A Multicenter Non-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Muñoz-Fernández María Jesús , Medrano-Sánchez Esther M. , Ostos-Díaz Beatriz , Martín-Valero Rocío , Suárez-Serrano Carmen , Casuso-Holgado María Jesús
Published: February 2021

Selective sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) represents a minimally invasive surgery in patients with breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to explore the possible effect of an early physiotherapy intervention for the recovery of the upper limb and the surgical scars after SLNB in comparison with usual care. A total of 40 patients were enrolled in either the control group (n = 20) or the experimental group (n = 20). The intervention group performed an early physiotherapy program based on functional exercises, scar manual therapy, and educational tips. The control group received usual care. Shoulder range of motion (ROM), grip strength, upper limb pain and disability (SPADI), scar recovery (POSAS), myofascial adhesions (MAP-BC), quality of life (EORTCQLA-BR-23) and the presence of axillary web syndrome (AWS) and lymphoedema were assessed at baseline and immediately after intervention. A follow-up period of 6 months was performed for lymphoedema surveillance. Between groups significant differences in favor of the intervention were found for ROM (r = 0.43), grip strength (r = 0.32), SPADI (d = 0.45), POSAS (d = 1.28), MAP-BC (d = 1.82) and EORTCQLQ-BR 23 general function subscale (d = 0.37) (p < 0.05 for all variables). Our results suggest that an early physical therapy program seems to be more effective than usual care in women after SLNB. However, results should be interpreted with caution and future randomized trial with a larger sample size is needed.
Longitudinal Follow Up of Early Career Midwives: Insights Related to Racism Show the Need for Increased Commitment to Cultural Safety in Aboriginal Maternity Care
Authors: Thackrah Rosalie D. , Wood Jennifer , Thompson Sandra C.
Published: February 2021

Racism in health care undermines equitable service delivery, contributes to poorer health outcomes and has a detrimental effect on the Aboriginal workforce. In maternity care settings, Aboriginal women’s perceptions of discrimination are widespread, with the importance of cultural practices surrounding childbirth often not recognised. Efforts to build midwives’ cultural capabilities and address health disparities have seen Aboriginal content included in training programs but little is known about its application to clinical practice. This study reinterviewed midwives who had previously completed university midwifery training that aimed to increase understanding of Aboriginal people and cultural safety in health care. Participants were 14 non-Indigenous midwives and two Aboriginal midwives. Interviews explored the legacy of program initiatives on cultural capabilities and observations and experiences of racism in maternity care settings. Methods followed qualitative approaches for research rigour, with thematic analysis of transcribed interviews. Findings revealed the positive impact of well-designed content and placements, with non-Indigenous participants cognisant and responsive to casual racism but largely not recognising institutional racism. The Aboriginal midwives had experienced and were attuned to racism in all its guises and suggested initiatives to heighten awareness and dispel stereotypes. It is evident that greater attention must be paid to institutional racism in educational programs to increase its recognition and appropriate actions within health care settings.
Optimization of Walk Score Based on Street Greening—A Case Study of Zhongshan Road in Qingdao
Authors: Sun Ye , Lu Wei , Sun Peijin
Published: February 2021

Enhancing the walkability of urban streets is an effective means to improve public health, alleviate traffic congestion, and enhance the living environment. In China, the government has actively encouraged green travel and promoted improvements in the walk system. The walkability of the built environment is affected by many factors. In addition to the configuration of daily life facilities, street greening can have significant effects on walkability. To explore the rationality of street life facilities and understand the impact of the natural attributes of the block space (street-level greening) on the quality of the walking environment, we evaluated the walkability of Zhongshan Road in Qingdao, China and optimized the algorithm of the walk score. In this study, we selected residential areas as the starting point and modified the weight coefficients for facilities to evaluate the walkability of streets. Traditional research methods were combined with street view image capture, and the rate of the attenuation factor was used for the new optimization algorithm. We discussed the rationality of street life facilities and increased the green vision rate using a correction index. By comparing changes in walkability before and after joining, we analyzed the necessity of including new indicators. The results show that the average walking index of Zhongshan Road is 79.74, and the overall performance is good, showing a high trend in the west and a low trend in the east, and a high trend in the south and a low trend in the north. According to the general walking index, western stations and southern coastal areas have higher scores, and living facilities are well equipped; old northern and eastern residential areas have lower scores. Among them, the average weight of bookstores is 0.74, and the average weight of parks is 0.69. To meet residents’ needs for daily leisure activities, adding bookstores or similar facilities in community parks would be necessary to improve daily facilities and services. The average green viewing rate of Zhongshan Road is 20.48%, which is lower than the best visual perception value of 25.00%. Comparing the walking index changes before and after adding the green viewing rate, the high-scoring area shifted from the west to the south, and the west walking index has the most significant decline. Street greening has a certain impact on the quality of the walking environment. The results and conclusions of this study can be used as a reference in developing street walkability indicators and further improving the evaluation system.
Indicator Compounds Representative of Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) Found in the Water Cycle in the United States
Authors: Zhang Shuangyi , Gitungo Stephen , Dyksen John E. , Raczko Robert F. , Axe Lisa
Published: February 2021

The presence of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) in the aquatic environment has recently become a global issue. The very large number of CECs reported in the literature makes it difficult to interpret potential risks as well as the removal efficiencies, especially for the more recalcitrant compounds. As such, there is a need for indicator compounds that are representative of CECs detected in systems worldwide. In an effort to develop such a list, five criteria were used to address the potential for applying indicator compounds; these criteria include usage, occurrence, resistance to treatment, persistence, and physicochemical properties that shed light on the potential degradability of a class of compounds. Additional constraints applied included the feasibility of procuring and analyzing compounds. In total, 22 CECs belonging to 13 groups were selected as indicator compounds. These compounds include acetaminophen and ibuprofen (analgesic); erythromycin, sulfamethoxazole, and trimethoprim (antibiotics); diazepam and fluoxetine (antidepressants); carbamazepine (antiepileptic); atenolol and propranolol (β-blockers); gemfibrozil (blood lipid regulator); tris(2-chloroethyl)phosphate (TCEP) (fire retardant); cotinine (nicotine metabolite); atrazine, metolachlor, and N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET) (pesticides); 17β-estradiol and cholesterol (steroids); caffeine (psychomotor stimulant); perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (surfactants); and iopromide (X-ray contrast agent). These thirteen groups of compounds represent CECs with the greatest resistance to treatment processes, most persistent in surface waters, and detected with significant frequency throughout the water cycle. Among the important implications of using indicator compounds are the ability to better understand the efficacy of treatment processes as well as the transport and fate of these compounds in the environment.
Effects of Exercise in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lin Kuan-Yin , Cheng Hui-Ching , Yen Chia-Jui , Hung Ching-Hsia , Huang Yu-Ting , Yang Hsin-Lun , Cheng Wan-Ting , Tsai Kun-Ling
Published: February 2021

Background: Cisplatin administration may induce muscle atrophy, thereby reducing the fitness level of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). To date, only animal studies have been conducted to test the effectiveness of exercise interventions in diminishing side effects of cisplatin. Aim: To determine whether exercise training improves physical fitness and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients receiving chemotherapy for Head & Neck (H&N). Material and methods: This pilot-randomized controlled trial was conducted on 57 participants receiving chemotherapy for HNC. The participants were randomized into an exercise group and a control group. The exercise group received moderate-intensity combined aerobic, resistance and flexibility exercises three times a week for eight weeks during chemotherapy. The control group received no specific information regarding exercise. The outcome measures including body composition, muscle strength, balance, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed at baseline and eight weeks following baseline. Results: The body composition (body fat percentage, p = 0.002; skeletal muscle percentage, p = 0.008), dynamic balance (p = 0.01), muscle strength (upper extremity, p = 0.037; lower extremity, p = 0.025) and HRQoL (p = 0.001) showed a significant difference between the exercise group and the control group eight weeks following baseline. Significant deteriorations were noted in flexibility, muscle strength, cardiovascular fitness and several domains of HRQoL scale in the control group at eight weeks following baseline. Conclusions: This study found that a combined aerobic, resistance and flexibility exercise program during chemotherapy may improve physical fitness (i.e., muscle strength, balance, flexibility and body composition) and HRQoL and alleviate the deterioration of cardiovascular fitness in patients with HNC. Further research studies with large sample sizes are warranted to investigate the long-term effects of exercise in this population.
Mitigating Urban Visual Pollution through a Multistakeholder Spatial Decision Support System to Optimize Locational Potential of Billboards
Authors: Wakil Khydija , Tahir Ali , Hussnain Muhammad Qadeer ul , Waheed Abdul , Nawaz Raheel
Published: February 2021

Urban visual pollution is increasingly affecting the built-up areas of the rapidly urbanizing planet. Outdoor advertisements are the key visual pollution objects affecting the visual pollution index and revenue generation potential of a place. Current practices of uninformed and uncontrolled outdoor advertising (especially billboards) impairs effective control of visual pollution in developing countries. Improving this can result in over 20% reduction of visual pollution. This article presents a spatial decision support system (SDSS) to facilitate all the stakeholders (development control authorities, advertisers, billboard owners, and the public) in balancing the optimal positioning of billboards under the governing regulations. In terms of its technical implementation, SDSS is based on well-known geospatial open source technologies and uses an analytical hierarchy process AHP-inspired approach in spatial decision-making. It can help users through its category-specific user interface to identify potential sites to position new billboards and the selection of boards from existing sites based on a wide variety of characteristics. The observations of all stakeholders have been recorded through panel feedback to assess the system’s initial effectiveness. The proposed system has been found functional in identifying hot spots for the focused management and exploration of the best suitable sites for new billboards. So, it helps the advertising agencies, urban authorities, and city councils in better planning and management of existing billboard locations to optimize revenue and improve urban aesthetics. The system can be replicated in other countries irrespective of spatial boundaries by incorporating jurisdictional rules and regulations.