bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Temperature Prediction Model Considering Stress Sensitivity for the Multiphase Fractured Horizontal Well in Tight Reservoirs
Authors: Duan Yonggang , Zhang Ruiduo , Wei Mingqiang
Published: August 2021

An accurate temperature profile of the multi-stage fractured horizontal well is the foundation of production profile interpretation using distributed temperature sensing. In this paper, an oil-water two-phase flow multi-stage fractured horizontal well temperature prediction model considering stress sensitivity effect and the Joule–Thomson effect is constructed. Based on the simulation calculation, the wellbore temperature variation under different formation parameters, water cuts, and fracture parameters is discussed. The wellbore temperature distribution in multistage fractured horizontal wells is affected by many factors. According to the principle of orthogonal experimental design, the difference between wellbore temperature and initial formation temperature is selected as the analysis condition. Sixteen groups of orthogonal experimental calculations are designed and conducted. By analyzing the experimental results, it is found that the fracture half-length, water production, and formation permeability are the main controlling factors of the wellbore temperature profile. Finally, the production profile of the well is determined by calculating the temperature profile of a tight oil well and fitting it to the measured data of distributed temperature sensing.
COVID-19: Evidenced Health Disparity
Authors: Iyanda Ayodeji , Boakye Kwadwo , Lu Yongmei
Published: August 2021

Health disparity is an unacceptable, unjust, or inequitable difference in health outcomes among different groups of people that affects access to optimal health care, as well as deterring it. Health disparity adversely affects disadvantaged subpopulations due to a higher incidence and prevalence of a particular disease or ill health. Existing health disparity determines whether a disease outbreak such as coronavirus disease 2019, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), will significantly impact a group or a region. Hence, health disparity assessment has become one of the focuses of many agencies, public health practitioners, and other social scientists. Successful elimination of health disparity at all levels requires pragmatic approaches through an intersectionality framework and robust data science.
The Dose of Somatostatin Analogues during Pre-Surgical Treatment Is a Key Factor to Achieve Surgical Remission in Acromegaly
Authors: Araujo-Castro Marta , Pascual-Corrales Eider , Pian Héctor , Ruz-Caracuel Ignacio , Acitores Cancela Alberto , Duque Sara García , Berrocal Víctor Rodríguez
Published: August 2021

Purpose: to determine whether pre-surgical treatment using long-acting somatostatin analogues (SSAs) may improve surgical outcomes in acromegaly. Methods: retrospective study of 48 patients with acromegaly operated by endoscopic transsphenoidal approach and for first time. Surgical remission was evaluated based on the 2010 criteria. Results: most patients, 83.3% (n = 40), harbored macroadenomas and 31.3% (n = 15) invasive pituitary adenomas. In this case, 14 patients were treated with lanreotide LAR and 6 with octreotide LAR, median monthly doses of 97.5 [range 60–120] and 20 [range 20–30] mg, respectively, for at least 3 months preoperatively. Presurgical variables were comparable between pre-treated and untreated patients (p > 0.05). Surgical remission was more frequent in those pre-treated with monthly doses ≥90 mg of lanreotide or ≥30 mg of octreotide than in untreated or pre-treated with lower doses (OR = 4.64, p = 0.025). However, no differences were found between pre-treated and untreated patients when lower doses were included or between those treated for longer than 6 months compared to those untreated or pre-treated for shorter than 6 months. Similarly, no differences were found either in terms of surgical or endocrine complications (OR = 0.65, p = 0.570), independently of the doses and the duration of SSA treatment (p > 0.05). Conclusions: the dose of SSAs is a key factor during pre-surgical treatment, since the beneficial effects in surgical remission were observed with monthly doses equal or higher than 90 mg of lanreotide and 30 mg of octreotide, but not with lower doses.
Effects of Antimony Stress on Growth and Physiology of 10 Genotypes of Catalpa bungei
Authors: Liu Zhenhua , Ma Wenjun , Tong Fangping , Wang Junhui
Published: August 2021

Increasing levels of antimony (Sb) pollution have been recognized as an emerging environmental problem. Phytoremediation of Sb-contaminated soil is a green, economical, and effective method for restoring polluted soils. Here, we studied differences in Sb tolerance, accumulation, and transport by different genotypes of Catalpa bungei C. A. Mey, with the goal of identifying genotypes that are suitable for remediating Sb-contaminated soil. Different concentrations of Sb were applied to soil, and we analyzed variation in growth, biomass, Sb content in different organs, Sb transport capacity, oxidizing substances, antioxidants, and antioxidant enzyme activities in 10 C. bungei genotypes. Marked differences were found in plant height, ground diameter, and biomass among different genotypes at given Sb concentrations. The Sb concentration in different plant organs also varied between genotypes. The content of Sb in each genotype was proportional to the exposure. At 600 mg Sb/kg soil, the highest concentration of Sb in roots and leaves was found in Genotype 63, and that in stems was found in Genotype 8402. The lowest concentration of Sb in roots, stems, and leaves was found in Genotypes 8402, 2-8, and 20-01, respectively. At 1200 mg Sb/kg soil, Genotype 5-2 had the highest concentration of Sb in roots, and Genotype 1-1 had the highest concentration in stems and leaves. The lowest concentration of Sb in roots was in Genotype 72, and that in stems and leaves was found in Genotype 20-01. At 2000 mg Sb/kg soil, the highest concentration of Sb in roots was found in Genotype 5-8, in stems in Genotype 8402, and in leaves in Genotype 72. The lowest concentration of Sb in roots was observed in Genotype 72 and in stems and leaves in Genotype 2-8. After absorption by C. bungei, Sb mainly accumulated in the roots, and upward transfer ability was poor. The Sb biological concentration factor of roots of all genotypes was >1 at each tested Sb concentration. Our results demonstrate that all 10 C. bungei genotypes could be used for plant stabilization of Sb-contaminated soil. However, the different genotypes of C. bungei had different responses to different Sb concentrations. Based on root Sb accumulation values, at soil Sb concentrations around 600 mg/kg, Genotypes 1, 63, and 5-8 are suited to phytoremediation; Genotypes 5-8, 1, and 5-2 are suited to phytoremediation at soil Sb concentrations around 1200 mg/kg; and Genotypes 5-8, 1, and 8402 are suited to phytoremediation at soil Sb concentrations around 2000 mg/kg. We demonstrate for the first time that Sb-contaminated soil can be improved by using specific plant genotypes tailored to different levels of Sb pollution.
Anthropometric Analysis of Selected Body Dimensions and Comparison with the Design Approach for Forestry and Agricultural Machine Operators
Authors: Gejdoš Miloš , Hitka Miloš , Balážová Žaneta
Published: August 2021

The aim of the study was to conduct an analysis of selected anthropometric measurements of sitting posture of the adult male population and to compare the results to the workplace of earthmoving machine operators. Research into this problem is important in several respects, particularly the design approaches taken for the current and future machines, and their impact on the health and safety of operators. The anthropometric analysis was based on dimension measurements of the adult male population gathered in the years 2002–2019. The sample consisted of 1702 subjects aged 18 to 25. Thirteen body dimensions were selected and evaluated according to the European Standard of International Organization for Standardization (EN ISO) Nr. 3411. Anthropometric analysis of individual dimensions was evaluated using descriptive statistics and frequency histograms. The results of the analysis were compared to values recommended in the EN ISO 3411 standard. Results confirmed the growing trend of specific human dimensions within the adult population. In eight of the 13 analyzed body dimensions, descriptive statistics showed above-average values in the analyzed population compared to the values given in the standard. The long-term trend commonly observed in the adult population of developed countries was also confirmed.
Isocitric Acid Production from Ethanol Industry Waste by Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Kamzolova Svetlana V. , Samoilenko Vladimir A. , Lunina Julia N. , Morgunov Igor G.
Published: August 2021

There is ever increasing evidence that isocitric acid can be used as a promising compound with powerful antioxidant activity to combat oxidative stress. This work demonstrates the possibility of using waste product from the alcohol industry (so-called ester-aldehyde fraction) for production of isocitric acid by yeasts. The potential producer of isocitric acid from this fraction, Yarrowia lipolytica VKM Y-2373, was selected by screening of various yeast cultures. The selected strain showed sufficient growth and good acid formation in media with growth-limiting concentrations of nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and magnesium. A shortage of Fe2+ and Ca2+ ions suppressed both Y. lipolytica growth and formation of isocitric acid. The preferential synthesis of isocitric acid can be regulated by changing the nature and concentration of nitrogen source, pH of cultivation medium, and concentration of ester-aldehyde fraction. Experiments in this direction allowed us to obtain 65 g/L isocitric acid with a product yield (YICA) of 0.65 g/g in four days of cultivation.
Extraction Kinetics of Total Polyphenols, Flavonoids, and Condensed Tannins of Lentil Seed Coat: Comparison of Solvent and Extraction Methods
Authors: Galgano Fernanda , Tolve Roberta , Scarpa Teresa , Caruso Marisa Carmela , Lucini Luigi , Senizza Biancamaria , Condelli Nicola
Published: August 2021

The lentil seed coat is a waste by-product still rich in phenolic compounds, specifically condensed tannins. The effect of different solvents, as well as different processes, namely conventional solid–liquid extraction (CSLE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), on the extraction yield of specific phenolic compound classes was studied. Four empirical two-parameter models were examined to select the one that better fit the experimental data obtained under different operating conditions. Additionally, ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI/QTOF-MS) was employed to profile the phenolic compounds obtained under distinct extraction conditions. In the operative conditions adopted here, the bioactive compounds yield achieved using UAE was lower than that obtained with CSLE. The kinetics of polyphenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins extraction from the lentil seed coat were successfully fitted to the power-law models, yielding mean values of the root mean square < 5.4%, standard error of estimation < 0.53, and coefficient of determination > 0.8. In addition, the UHPLC-ESI/QTOF-MS of the lentil seed coat extracts allowed the putative recognition of nearly 500 compounds, mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids.
Enzyme-Assisted Extraction of Fish Oil from Whole Fish and by-Products of Baltic Herring (Clupea harengus membras)
Authors: Aitta Ella , Marsol-Vall Alexis , Damerau Annelie , Yang Baoru
Published: August 2021

Baltic herring (Clupea harengus membras) is one of the most abundant commercially caught fish species from the Baltic Sea. Despite the high content of fat and omega-3 fatty acids, the consumption of Baltic herring has decreased dramatically over the last four decades, mostly due to the small sizes and difficulty in processing. At the same time there is an increasing global demand for fish and fish oil rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This study aimed to investigate enzyme-assisted oil extraction as an environmentally friendly process for valorizing the underutilized fish species and by-products to high quality fish oil for human consumption. Three different commercially available proteolytic enzymes (Alcalase®, Neutrase® and Protamex®) and two treatment times (35 and 70 min) were investigated in the extraction of fish oil from whole fish and by-products from filleting of Baltic herring. The oil quality and stability were studied with peroxide- and p-anisidine value analyses, fatty acid analysis with GC-FID, and volatile compounds with HS-SPME-GC-MS. Overall, longer extraction times led to better oil yields but also increased oxidation of the oil. For whole fish, the highest oil yields were from the 70-min extractions with Neutrase and Protamex. Protamex extraction with 35 min resulted in the best fatty acid composition with the highest content of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) but also increased oxidation compared to treatment with other enzymes. For by-products, the highest oil yield was obtained from the 70-min extraction with Protamex without significant differences in EPA and DHA contents among the oils extracted with different enzymes. Oxidation was lowest in the oil produced with 35-min treatment using Neutrase and Protamex. This study showed the potential of using proteolytic enzymes in the extraction of crude oil from Baltic herring and its by-products. However, further research is needed to optimize enzymatic processing of Baltic herring and its by-products to improve yield and quality of crude oil.
Swallowing Gel for Patients with Dysphagia: A Novel Application of Chitosan
Authors: Sangnim Tanikan , Sriamornsak Pornsak , Singh Inderbir , Huanbutta Kampanart
Published: August 2021

Dysphagia refers to difficulty swallowing certain foods, liquids, or pills. It is common among the elderly with chronic diseases who need to take drugs for long periods. Therefore, dysphagia might reduce compliance with oral drug administration in the aging population. Many pharmaceutical companies search for new products to serve as swallowing aids. Existing products are expensive and do not suit all geriatric patients. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and investigate pill swallowing aid gels prepared from carboxymethyl cellulose and chitosan. We formulated gels by dissolving different concentrations of carboxymethyl cellulose and low or high molecular weight chitosan in solvents to find appropriate gel rheology properties. We then added several portions of glycerin as the glidant of the formulation. We found that the optimized gel formulation was 6.25% (w/w) chitosan with a molecular weight of 80–120 kDa dissolved in 1.2% acetic acid and 4% (w/w) glycerin. The developed pill swallowing gel’s rheology was pseudoplastic with a viscosity of 73.74 ± 3.20 Pa⸱s. The developed chitosan gel had enhanced flow ability; it allowed the pill to cross a 300 mm tube within 6 s, while the reference product took 3 s. Even though the reference product could carry the pill in the tube faster, the chitosan gel better covered the pill, making it more convenient to use. Finally, using a theophylline tablet as a model tablet dosage form, we assessed the gel’s effect on drug disintegration and dissolution. The chitosan gel delayed the tablet disintegration time by about 3–7 min and slightly affected the theophylline dissolution rate. Lastly, all gels were physically stable after a month of storage in the stress condition. These results show the feasibility of manufacturing a chitosan gel usable as a pill swallowing gel for patients with dysphagia.
Exchange Counterion in Polycationic Hydrogels: Tunability of Hydrophobicity, Water State, and Floating Capability for a Floating pH Device
Authors: Danko Martin , Kronekova Zuzana , Krupa Igor , Tkac Jan , Matúš Peter , Kasak Peter
Published: August 2021

Smart gel materials are capable of controlling and switching swelling, water state, and wettability properties triggered by external stimuli. In this study, we fabricated a series of polyelectrolyte hydrogels bearing a 3-trimethylammoniumpropyl pendant to a methacrylamide-based backbone and examined the switchability with hydrophobic-like counteranions. The exchange between the initial chloride and camphor sulfate (CaS), dodecyl sulfate (DS), and perfluorooctanoate (PFO) counterions was investigated. The kinetics of the exchange showed that the fast exchange (within 4 h) of PFO allowed for a favorable coordination for ion pairing, resulting in a decrease in hydration. The reversibility of the exchange to the Cl− ion was only enabled for the CaS ion due to its bulkiness, while the PFO and DS hydrogels were unable to exchange, even by using tetrabutylammonium chloride, which is a structurally similar reagent, due to aggregation or the coagulates in the collapsed state of the linear tails of the counterions. The hydrogels exhibited a modulable water state and water swelling. Moreover, the hydrogels containing DS and PFO, as counterions, showed surface hydrophobic (contact angle 90°) and high hydrophobic (110°) behavior, respectively. The Raman spectrometry fluorescence with a pyrene probe indicated an increase in strong hydrogen-bonded water molecules, water confinement, and hydrophobic domains in the PFO hydrogel. Moreover, the PFO-modified hydrogel demonstrated a free-floating ability on the water surface, with a strong water repellency, showing that it has the potential to be applied in a floating pH detection device to distinguish between volatile and nonvolatile bases in a controlled manner.
C9orf72-G4C2 Intermediate Repeats and Parkinson’s Disease; A Data-Driven Hypothesis
Authors: Kobo Hila , Goldstein Orly , Gana-Weisz Mali , Bar-Shira Anat , Gurevich Tanya , Thaler Avner , Mirelman Anat , Giladi Nir , Orr-Urtreger Avi
Published: August 2021

Pathogenic C9orf72-G4C2 repeat expansions are associated with ALS/FTD, but not with Parkinson’s disease (PD); yet the possible link between intermediate repeat lengths and PD remains inconclusive. We aim to study the potential involvement of these repeats in PD. The number of C9orf72-repeats were determined by flanking and repeat-primed PCR assays, and the risk-haplotype was determined by SNP-array. Their association with PD was assessed in a stratified manner: in PD-patients-carriers of mutations in LRRK2, GBA, or SMPD1 genes (n = 388), and in PD-non-carriers (NC, n = 718). Allelic distribution was significantly different only in PD-NC compared to 600 controls when looking both at the allele with higher repeat’s size (p = 0.034) and at the combined number of repeats from both alleles (p = 0.023). Intermediate repeats (20–60 repeats) were associated with PD in PD-NC patients (p = 0.041; OR = 3.684 (CI 1.05–13.0)) but not in PD-carriers (p = 0.684). The C9orf72 risk-haplotype, determined in a subgroup of 588 PDs and 126 controls, was observed in higher frequency in PD-NC (dominant model, OR = 1.71, CI 1.04–2.81, p = 0.0356). All 19 alleles within the risk-haplotype were associated with higher C9orf72 RNA levels according to the GTEx database. Based on our data, we suggest a model in which intermediate repeats are a risk factor for PD in non-carriers, driven not only by the number of repeats but also by the variants’ genotypes within the risk-haplotype. Further studies are needed to elucidate this possible role of C9orf72 in PD pathogenesis.
Special Issue: Genetic Basis of Phenotypic Variation in Drosophila and Other Insects
Authors: Johnston J. Spencer , Hjelmen Carl E.
Published: August 2021

Next-generation sequencing provides a nearly complete genomic sequence for model and non-model species alike; however, this wealth of sequence data includes no road map [...]
Costs of Stroke and Incidence of First Diagnosis of Atrial Fibrillation at Time of Stroke. Neurology Ward Hospital Poznań, Poland 2018
Authors: Zaprutko Tomasz , Florczak-Wyspiańska Jolanta , Kopciuch Dorota , Paczkowska Anna , Ratajczak Piotr , Dorszewska Jolanta , Nowakowska Elżbieta , Kus Krzysztof
Published: August 2021

Stroke is a major cause of morbidity in industrialized countries, representing 8% of total deaths across Europe in 2017. It is also a very costly disorder, frequently caused by atrial fibrillation. We aimed to calculate the cost of stroke hospitalization in 2018 in Poznań (Poland). We also intended to present patients with the first AF diagnosis at the time of stroke. The study was conducted from January 2019 to July 2020. Data were obtained from hospital records and from the hospital accounting department. Out of 164 patients included in the study, 41 had AF and in 18 cases AF was first diagnosed at the time of stroke. The cost of hospitalization in Poznań was EUR 139,257.21 (x¯= EUR 849.13). Among those with concomitant AF, the general cost of inpatient care was EUR 33,859.18 (x¯= EUR 825.83). Considering those who had AF first diagnosed during hospitalization the cost was EUR 16,248.97 (x¯= EUR 906.24). Stroke is associated with high costs of inpatient care, which turned out to be higher among those with AF first diagnosed at the time of stroke. The number of patients who used oral anticoagulants at the time of admission was relatively low. The most frequently used NOAC was dabigatran.
Fractional Flow Reserve Derived from Computer Tomography in Asymptomatic Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Albuminuria without Significant Coronary Artery Stenosis—A Surrogate for Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction?
Authors: Lambrechtsen Jess , Heinsen Laurits Juhl , Larsson Johanna , Pararajasingam Gokulan , Egstrup Kenneth
Published: August 2021

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) patients with albuminuria have coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD). Fractional flow reserve assessed by coronary computed tomography angiography (FFRct) is dependent on the structure and function of the microcirculation and is likely influenced by CMD. We aimed to evaluate if asymptomatic patients with T2D who had no significant coronary artery stenosis but had been diagnosed with albuminuria had lower value of nadir FFRct compared to asymptomatic patients with T2D and no albuminuria. Methods and results: This was a cross-sectional study which compared the mean nadir FFRct values in coronary arteries in patients with T2D who had no symptoms of angina. The T2D patients were divided into two groups (albuminuria and no albuminuria) with albuminuria being defined as albumin–creatinine-ratio (ACR) ≥30 milligram per gram. The nadir FFRct values were compared between the two groups for left anterior descendent artery (FFRct-LAD), circumflex artery (FFRct-CX), and right coronary artery (FFRct-RCA) by using a two-sample Wilcoxon rank-sum (Mann–Whitney) test. Ninety-eight patients without albuminuria and 26 patients with albuminuria were included. No significant differences in mean values were detected for FFRct-CX 0.86 ± 0.07 and 0.88 ± 0.0, FFRct-RCA 0.88 ± 0.05 and 0.88 ± 0.07, or for FFRct-LAD 0.82 ± 0.07 and 0.82 ± 0.07 in patients with albuminuria and without albuminuria, respectively. Conclusion: In this observational study, we did not find that FFRct was affected by CMD. Therefore, it is not a surrogate for microvascular dysfunction in asymptomatic T2D patients with albuminuria.
Easily Extractable Glomalin-Related Soil Protein as Foliar Spray Improves Nutritional Qualities of Late Ripening Sweet Oranges
Authors: Meng Lu-Lu , Liang Sheng-Min , Srivastava Anoop Kumar , Li Yan , Liu Chun-Yan , Zou Ying-Ning , Kuča Kamil , Hashem Abeer , Fathi Abd_Allah Elsayed , Wu Qiang-Sheng
Published: August 2021

The role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in sweet oranges is well known, but the function of their secondary metabolite, especially the easily extractable glomalin-related soil protein (EE-GRSP), an active fraction of glomalin, is still unclear. The proposed study aimed to analyze the field response of foliar application of exogenous EE-GRSP on tree mycorrhizal development and fruit quality of two sweet orange (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck) varieties viz., Lane Late Navel (LLN) and Rohde Red Valencia (RRV). Application of EE-GRSP significantly increased the root mycorrhizal colonization and soil mycorrhizal hyphal length in both the sweet orange varieties. The external quality of fruits (fruit weight, polar diameter, and equatorial diameter) also improved in response to foliar application of EE-GRSP in both sweet orange varieties. However, EE-GRSP treatment showed no change in fruit soluble solid content, while it increased the Vc content, solids-acid ratio, fructose, glucose, and sucrose content of sarcocarp in the two sweet oranges varieties. The LLN variety treated with EE-GRSP recorded significantly higher N, P, K, Fe, and Si content of sarcocarp as a mark of nutritional quality, while the RRV variety treated with EE-GRSP displayed a higher concentration of nutrients like Cu, Fe, Si, and Zn in the sarcocarp as compared with the corresponding non-treated control. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report regarding the improvement in fruit quality of late-ripening sweet oranges (especially LLN) in response to foliar application of EE-GRSP as another potential biostimulant.
Hydrology and Cranes (Grus grus) Attraction Partnership in the Management of the Hula Valley—Lake Kinneret Landscape
Authors: Gophen Moshe
Published: August 2021

The Hula Valley in northern Israel was partly covered by swamps and a shallow lake. The entire valley was drained and converted for agricultural cultivation. Later, an additional soil reclamation operation was implemented, including eco-tourism. From the early 1990s, winter migratory cranes have attracted visitors, thus supporting the hydrological management of the entire valley that protects the downstream Lake Kinneret. It was documented that these birds have a minor impact on phosphorus pollution, but severely damaged agricultural crops are protected by mild deportation and daily, short, periodical corn seed feeding.
Evaluation of Physical Risk during Necropsy and Morgue Activities as Risk Management Strategy
Authors: Del Fante Zoe , Di Fazio Nicola , Papale Adriano , Tomao Paola , Del Duca Fabio , Frati Paola , Fineschi Vittorio
Published: August 2021

Physical risk assessments allow us to understand work-related critical issues, thus representing a useful tool in risk management strategies. In particular, our study focuses on the identification of already known and emerging physical risks related to necropsy and morgue activities, as well as crime scene investigations. The aim of our study is, therefore, to identify objective elements in order to quantify exposure to such risk factors among healthcare professionals and working personnel. For the research of potentially at-risk activities, data from the Morgue of Policlinico Umberto I Hospital in Rome were used. The scientific literature has been reviewed in order to assess the risks associated with morgue activity. Measurements were performed on previously scheduled days, in collaboration with the activities of different research units. The identified areas of risk were: microclimate; exposure to noise and vibrations; postural and biomechanical aspects of necropsy activities. The obtained results make it possible to detect interindividual variability in exposure to many of the aforementioned risk factors. In particular, the assessment of microclimate did not show significant results. On the contrary, exposure to vibrations and biomechanical aspects of load handling have shown potential risk profiles. For this reason, both profiles have been identified as possible action targets for risk management strategies.
Comparison of Three Eccentric Overload Training Strategies on Power Output and Interlimb Asymmetry in Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Moreno-Azze Alejandro , Arjol-Serrano José Luis , Falcón-Miguel David , Bishop Chris , Gonzalo-Skok Oliver
Published: August 2021

Background: The present study compared the effects of performing the lateral squat exercise in three different formats from eccentric overload training on concentric/eccentric peak/mean power and inter-limb asymmetries in young soccer players. Methods: Forty-five young male (U-17) soccer players were distributed into three groups. Two groups performed the same training volume with both legs, beginning with the weaker leg (SVW, n = 15) or with the stronger leg (SVS, n = 15). The third group executed double volume with the weaker leg and also commenced with such leg (DVW, n = 15) in the lateral squat during a 10-week period. Pre- and post-intervention metrics included concentric and eccentric peak/mean power during the lateral squat test and their corresponding asymmetries. Results: All groups improved all power variables. Concentric mean and peak power asymmetry were substantially reduced in the SVW (ES: 0.89), DVW (ES: 0.43), and in SVW (ES: 1.60). Eccentric mean and peak power asymmetry were also substantially decreased in SVW (ES: 0.81) and in DVW (ES: 0.68). Between-group analyses showed substantially better performance in concentric and eccentric variables with stronger and weaker legs in SVW and DVW groups compared with SVS. Conclusions: Those groups which started with the weaker leg showed greater both power enhancements and reductions on inter-limb asymmetries.
Hamstring Strain Injury (HSI) Prevention in Professional and Semi-Professional Football Teams: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Biz Carlo , Nicoletti Pietro , Baldin Giovanni , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Crimì Alberto , Ruggieri Pietro
Published: August 2021

Hamstring Strain Injuries (HSIs) are the most common type of lesion in professional footballers and the leading cause of absence days from sports. However, recent studies have shown that high-level football teams apparently do not apply any HSI prevention protocol. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of preventive strategies and protocols in reducing the incidence of hamstring muscle injuries in professional and semi-professional football teams. A literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE, ISI/Web of Science and Scopus databases was conducted with the keywords “hamstring* and (injury* or strain) and prevent* and (soccer or football)”. Quality and bias assessment was completed through the Kennelly modified scale. The Injury Incidence Rate (IIR) and the Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) were assessed in the statistical analysis. In the meta-analysis, data were extracted, pooled and analysed with “Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 3.3.070” software. In total, 8 of the 1017 original search studies met the inclusion criteria of this review. The total exposure of the studies was 170,221.8 h, while the number of HSIs recorded was 165 in the intervention groups and 224 in the control groups. The average score of the quality assessment was 23.6/34. The meta-analysis of six of the eight included studies provided strong evidence that interventions are effective in reducing hamstring injuries. The IRR of the effect size was 0.443, with p-value = 0.001. The studies analysed applied different preventive strategies: the Nordic hamstring exercise, the FIFA 11+ programme and exercises for core stability or balance training. All these interventions proved to have a successful effect on prevention of hamstring injuries.
At Home: Place Attachment and Identity in an Italian Refugee Sample
Authors: Nicolais Caterina , Perry James Michael , Modesti Camilla , Talamo Alessandra , Nicolais Giampaolo
Published: August 2021

The central tenet of Place Attachment theory states that an individual has an inborn predisposition to form strong bonds with places as well as with people. Our qualitative study applies this theory to understand how, despite loss and adversity, refugees are able to reconstruct a sense of identity, community, and “home”. Participants included 15 forcibly displaced people from different countries of origin. Semistructured interviews explored factors that facilitate participants’ integration in a new context and the impact of this context on their sense of identity. Data were analysed using Consensual Qualitative Research Methodology to identify recurrent themes and their frequencies within interview transcripts. Within the relational dimensions of place attachment, affiliation, and seeking help from others, the study explores the factors that facilitate the integration of refugees in a new context and the impact of this context on their sense of identity, identifying recurrent themes and their frequencies within interview transcripts. The most frequent resulting themes were (a) a sense of identity and (b) expectations toward the resettlement country. Additional, though less frequent, themes included: (c) sense of belonging, (d) community integration, (e) trust, (f) opportunity seizing, (g) being a point of reference for others, (h) sense of community, (i) positive memories, (j) refusal. These results begin to describe the ways by which Place Attachment, toward both birth and resettlement countries, contributes to a restructured identity and sense of “feeling at home” for refugees.
The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Image in Times of Crisis: The Mediating Role of Customer Trust
Authors: Chen Chih-Cheng , Khan Asif , Hongsuchon Tanaporn , Ruangkanjanases Athapol , Chen Yen-Tzu , Sivarak Ornlatcha , Chen Shih-Chih
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this research is to empirically examine relationships between a multi-dimensional set of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, numerous dimensions of customer trust, and corporate image in an emerging economy. It also analyzes the mediating effect of customer trust on the relationship between CSR and corporate image. This study focuses on two of the most well-known hotel chains situated in Pakistan. Close-ended, self-administered questionnaires were circulated amongst a total of 300 hotel customers. The research data was analyzed using a partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) model. The results revealed that economic, legal, and ethical CSR significantly impacted corporate image, while philanthropic CSR did not affect the corporate image. However, economic, legal, and philanthropic CSRs were found to be in a significant relationship with customer trust, while ethical CSR was not in a significant relationship with customer trust. Finally, customer trust fully mediated the relationship between economic and legal CSR with corporate image, whereas it partially mediated the relationship between ethical and philanthropic CSR. This study is unique from earlier CSR research based on an assessment of the connection between CSR dimensions and corporate image to examine customers’ trust in an emerging economy, especially in times of crisis.
Occupational Risk Factors and Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Spadarella Emanuela , Leso Veruscka , Fontana Luca , Giordano Angela , Iavicoli Ivo
Published: August 2021

Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP), including gestational hypertension (GH) and preeclampsia (PE), characterize a major cause of maternal and prenatal morbidity and mortality. In this systematic review, we tested the hypothesis that occupational factors would impact the risk for HDP in pregnant workers. MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge databases were searched for studies published between database inception and 1 April 2021. All observational studies enrolling > 10 pregnant workers and published in English were included. Un-experimental, non-occupational human studies were excluded. Evidence was synthesized according to the risk for HDP development in employed women, eventually exposed to chemical, physical, biological and organizational risk factors. The evidence quality was assessed through the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Out of 745 records identified, 27 were eligible. No definite conclusions could be extrapolated for the majority of the examined risk factors, while more homogenous data supported positive associations between job-strain and HDP risk. Limitations due to the lack of suitable characterizations of workplace exposure (i.e., doses, length, co-exposures) and possible interplay with personal issues should be deeply addressed. This may be helpful to better assess occupational risks for pregnant women and plan adequate measures of control to protect their health and that of their children.
Study on Multi-Agent Evolutionary Game of Emergency Management of Public Health Emergencies Based on Dynamic Rewards and Punishments
Authors: Fan Ruguo , Wang Yibo , Lin Jinchai
Published: August 2021

In the context of public health emergency management, it is worth studying ways to mobilize the enthusiasm of government, community, and residents. This paper adopts the method of combining evolutionary game and system dynamics to conduct a theoretical modeling and simulation analysis on the interactions of the behavioral strategies of the three participants. In response to opportunistic behavior and inadequate supervision in the static reward and punishment mechanism, we introduced a dynamic reward and punishment mechanism that considers changes in the social environment and the situation of epidemic prevention and control. This paper proves that the dynamic reward and punishment mechanism can effectively suppress the fluctuation problem in the evolutionary game process under static scenarios and achieve better supervision results through scenario analysis and simulation experiments.
Association of Structural Social Capital and Self-Reported Well-Being among Japanese Community-Dwelling Adults: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Nogi Kazuya , Imamura Haruhiko , Asakura Keiko , Nishiwaki Yuji
Published: August 2021

Previous studies have shown both positive and non-positive associations between social capital and health. However, longitudinal evidence examining its comprehensive effects on well-being is still limited. This study examined whether structural social capital in the local community was related to the later well-being of Japanese people aged 40 or above. A 4-year longitudinal study was conducted in a rural Japanese town. “Well-being” was measured using three indicators (happiness, self-rated health, and depressive symptoms), and those who were high in well-being in the baseline 2015 survey and responded to the follow-up 2019 survey were analyzed (n = 1032 for happiness, 938 for self-rated health, and 471 for depressive symptoms). Multilevel Poisson regression analysis adjusted for covariates showed that having contact with fewer neighbors was associated with a decline in happiness at both the community level (adjusted relative risk = 1.64, 95% confidence interval = 1.20–1.63) and the individual level (adjusted relative risk = 1.51, 95% confidence interval = 1.05–2.17), but participation in local community activities was not. The results suggest that dense personal networks might be more important in areas with thriving local community activities, not only for individuals but also for all community members.
Intercostal Muscles Oxygenation and Breathing Pattern during Exercise in Competitive Marathon Runners
Authors: Contreras-Briceño Felipe , Espinosa-Ramírez Maximiliano , Moya-Gallardo Eduardo , Fuentes-Kloss Rodrigo , Gabrielli Luigi , Araneda Oscar F. , Viscor Ginés
Published: August 2021

The study aimed to evaluate the association between the changes in ventilatory variables (tidal volume (Vt), respiratory rate (RR) and lung ventilation (V.E)) and deoxygenation of m.intescostales (∆SmO2-m.intercostales) during a maximal incremental exercise in 19 male high-level competitive marathon runners. The ventilatory variables and oxygen consumption (V.O2) were recorded breath-by-breath by exhaled gas analysis. A near-infrared spectroscopy device (MOXY®) located in the right-hemithorax allowed the recording of SmO2-m.intercostales. To explore changes in oxygen levels in muscles with high demand during exercise, a second MOXY® records SmO2-m.vastus laterallis. The triphasic model of exercise intensity was used for evaluating changes in SmO2 in both muscle groups. We found that ∆SmO2-m.intercostales correlated with V.O2-peak (r = 0.65; p = 0.002) and the increase of V.E (r = 0.78; p = 0.001), RR (r = 0.54; p = 0.001), but not Vt (p = 0.210). The interaction of factors (muscles × exercise-phases) in SmO2 expressed as an arbitrary unit (a.u) was significant (p = 0.005). At VT1 there was no difference (p = 0.177), but SmO2-m.intercostales was higher at VT2 (p < 0.001) and V.O2-peak (p < 0.001). In high-level competitive marathon runners, the m.intercostales deoxygenation during incremental exercise is directly associated with the aerobic capacity and increased lung ventilation and respiratory rate, but not tidal volume. Moreover, it shows less deoxygenation than m.vastus laterallis at intensities above the aerobic ventilatory threshold.
The Determinants of Telehealth Provision: Empirical Evidence from OECD Countries
Authors: Wang Fuhmei , Wang Jung-Der
Published: August 2021

Health services provided through the telecommunications system aim to improve the population’s health and well-being. This research aims to explore what digital, economic, and health factors are associated with the provision of telehealth services, especially in ageing communities. Applying Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries’ experiences, this research tries to construct a logistic regression model between adopting a telehealth system or not, a binary outcome variable, and a group of potentially explanatory variables. Estimation results showed that there were thresholds for telehealth provision: The demand for telehealth service usually began when the provision of telecommunication accessibility reached 50%, the proportion of elders exceeded 10%, or the proportion of health spending occupied more than 3–5% of the gross domestic product (GDP); the slope of each variable seemed to correspond with an increase in demand for such a provision. A growing number of individuals in OECD countries are now readily served by telehealth systems under the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings could be regarded as a model for other countries for implementing the necessary infrastructure early on when any of these parameters reaches its threshold. Moreover, telehealth applied in developing countries could be elevated for wider populations to access basic health services and for the remote delivery of health care. A rational decision could be made to appropriately use additional resources in telehealth provision. With accessible e-health services, the population’s health could be improved, which in turn would possibly increase productivity and social welfare.
Comparatively Analyzing the Impact of Government Subsidy and Carbon Tax Policy on Authorized Remanufacturing
Authors: Li Biao , Geng Yong , Xia Xiqiang , Qiao Dan , Wang Hao
Published: August 2021

Authorized remanufacturing is an important means to achieve green manufacturing and carbon neutrality. In this study, a game theory model between a manufacturer and a remanufacturer was constructed to analyze the impact of government subsidies and carbon tax policies on authorized remanufacturing. Based on the game theory model, the effects of two government policies on the optimal solution, namely, the unit cost of remanufacturing product authorization and the waste product recovery rate, were compared and analyzed. This analysis could provide a reference for the government to improve and formulate relevant remanufacturing policies. The main results are as follows: government subsidy policies may increase the unit cost of remanufacturing product authorization and the rates of waste product recovery; government carbon tax policies may not affect the unit cost of remanufacturing product authorization, and increase the rates of waste product recovery; the government subsidy policy may not affect the unit retail price of new products, and reduces the unit retail price of remanufactured products; the government subsidy and carbon tax policies may reduce sales of new products and increase sales of remanufactured products; the government subsidies may increase the revenue of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and the remanufacturer; and the government carbon tax policies may increase the revenue of the remanufacturer. However, government carbon tax policies increase the revenue of the OEM only when the new product carbon tax amount is higher than a certain threshold. The impact of the two policies on the environment is related to the ratio of the two products’ impact on the environment, i.e., the quota ratio between the unit government carbon tax of the new product and the unit government subsidy of the remanufactured product. Finally, the consumer surplus is maximized when the government adopts the subsidy policy and lowest when the government adopts the carbon tax policy.
Reproducibility of Skin Temperature Response after Cold Stress Test Using the Game Ready System: Preliminary Study
Authors: Priego-Quesada Jose Ignacio , Gandia-Soriano Alexis , Pellicer-Chenoll Maria Teresa , Catalá-Vilaplana Ignacio , Bermejo-Ruiz Jose Luis , Encarnación-Martínez Alberto , Salvador-Palmer Rosario , Cibrián Ortiz de Anda Rosa
Published: August 2021

The objective of this preliminary study was to determine the reproducibility of lower limbs skin temperature after cold stress test using the Game Ready system. Skin temperature of fourteen participants was measured before and after cold stress test using the Game Ready system and it was repeated the protocol in four times: at 9:00, at 11:00, at 19:00, and at 9:00 h of the posterior day. To assess skin temperature recovery after cold stress test, a logarithmic equation for each region was calculated, and constant (β0) and slope (β1) coefficients were obtained. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error (SE), and within-subject coefficient of variation (CV) were determined. No differences were observed between measurement times in any of the regions for the logarithmic coefficients (p > 0.38). Anterior thigh (β0 ICC 0.33–0.47; β1 ICC 0.31–0.43) and posterior knee (β0 ICC 0.42–0.58; β1 ICC 0.28–0.57) were the regions with the lower ICCs, and the other regions presented values with a fair and good reproducibility (ICC > 0.41). Posterior leg was the region with the better reproducibility (β0 ICC 0.68–0.78; β1 ICC 0.59–0.74; SE 3–4%; within-subject CV 7–12%). In conclusion, cold stress test using Game Ready system showed a fair and good reproducibility, especially when the posterior leg was the region assessed.
Delivery of Health Care by Spanish Dental Hygienists in Private and Public Dental Services during the COVID-19 De-Escalation Phase (June 2020): A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Expósito-Delgado Antonio Javier , Ausina-Márquez Verónica , Mateos-Moreno María Victoria , Martínez-Sanz Elena , del Carmen Trullols-Casas María , Llamas-Ortuño María Eulalia , Blanco-González José María , Almerich-Torres Teresa , Bravo Manuel , Martínez-Beneyto Yolanda
Published: August 2021

Background: The first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain posed a major challenge for Spanish dental professionals. The objective of this work is to describe the dental hygienists’ work status and employment patterns during the de-escalation phase in order to analyse the standards of knowledge, compliance with official recommendations, and dental activities both in the public health service and in the private sector. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire was answered by Spanish dental hygienists via WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. The questionnaire was piloted before it was distributed and carried out during June 2020. Results: Here, 517 dental hygienists were surveyed, of which 86.2% followed the official recommendations to avoid contagion and 63.8% agreed with the gradual return to work by limiting the use of aerosols. Private dental hygienists identified more with returning to work without restrictions (14.5%) versus those working for the public service (1.2%) (p < 0.005). Conclusions: Dental hygienists’ return to work has involved different strategies, aimed at controlling infection and guaranteeing the safety of patients and the rest of the dental team. The availability of personal protective equipment, the adaptation of clinical infrastructure, and patient care management have differed between professionals working in the private and public sectors.