bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heuristic Learning as a Method for Improving Students’ Teamwork Skills in Physical Education
Authors: D’Isanto Tiziana , Aliberti Sara , Altavilla Gaetano , Esposito Giovanni , D’Elia Francesca
Published: October 2022

Transversal skills are the knowledge, skills, and personal qualities that are currently needed to meet the demands of the working world and everyday life. Schools have the task of equipping students with these skills, working not only on disciplinary goals but also on operational–behavioral goals. In 2018, the European Union adopted new recommendations on eight key competencies for lifelong learning and asked schools to implement new methods to develop these recommendations. To be successful, it is necessary to stimulate students’ development of these competences, which are also called soft skills, from the earliest years of the school experience. Physical education (PE) is called upon to make its contribution. In Italy, the two teaching methods used during PE classes are prescriptive teaching and heuristic learning. It is not clear which of the two methods is the most effective in improving soft skills, especially the skills involved in teamwork. The objective of this article was to compare the effects of these two teaching methods on students’ teamwork skills during PE classes in primary schools. After verifying the normality of the data, a Student’s t-test for dependent samples was performed to assess pre-test and post-test differences in each of two groups, while a Student’s t-test for independent samples was performed to compare the two groups after 3 months. Heuristic learning proved to be the most effective method for improving teamwork skills. The results may make an important contribution to future teacher training on the most effective teaching methods for developing students’ soft skills.
Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes among Migrants with Pulmonary Tuberculosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Japan, 2009–2018
Authors: Lee Sangnim , Aung Myo Nyein , Kawatsu Lisa , Uchimura Kazuhiro , Miyahara Reiko , Takasaki Jin , Ohkado Akihiro , Yuasa Motoyuki
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to describe characteristics and treatment outcomes of overseas-born pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) patients in Japan, and identify the factors associated with “treatment non-success”. We conducted a retrospective analysis of overseas-born patients with drug-susceptible PTB using cohort data of PTB cases newly registered in the Japan tuberculosis (TB) surveillance system between 2009 and 2018. Overall, 9151 overseas-born PTB cases were included in this study, and 70.3% were aged 34 years old or younger. “Students of high school and higher” (28.6%) and “regular workers other than service related sectors” (28.5%) accounted for over half of the study population, and they have continued to increase. Overall, the treatment success rate was 67.1%. Transferred-out constituted the largest proportion (14.8%) among the treatment non-success rate (32.9%). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed patients whose health insurance type was “others and unknown”, including the uninsured (adjusted OR (AOR) = 3.43: 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) 2.57–4.58), those diagnosed as TB within “one year” (AOR = 2.61, 95% CI 1.97–3.46) and “1–5 years” (AOR = 2.44, 95% CI 1.88–3.17) of arrival in Japan, and males (AOR = 1.34, 95% CI 1.16–1.54), which were the main factors associated with treatment non-success. These findings imply that Japan needs to develop TB control activities considering the increasing trends of overseas-born PTB patients, the majority of whom are young and highly mobile. There is a need to pay greater attention to overseas-born PTB patients diagnosed within a short duration after entering Japan, who may be socially and economically disadvantaged for their treatment completion.
Emissions of Fungal Volatile Organic Compounds in Residential Environments and Temporal Emission Patterns: Implications for Sampling Methods
Authors: Kim Kyunghoon , Lee Suyeon , Choi Yelim , Kim Daekeun
Published: October 2022

Currently, little is known about the occurrences of fungi-derived microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) in various indoor materials and their detection in residential environments, despite mVOCs being linked to several acute health effects. We identified various mVOCs emitted from fungi grown on PVC wallpaper, silicone rubber, and malt extract agar. We also investigated mVOCs temporal emission and whether fungi-derived VOCs concentration can be used to estimate fungal concentration in the air using active and passive air sampling methods. Among the three fungal growth media included in this study, silicone rubber produced the most variety of mVOCs: 106 compounds (from Aspergillus niger), 35 compounds (from Alternaria alternata), and 85 compounds (from Penicillium chrysogenum). We also found the emission patterns of eight chemical classes (i.e., aromatics, ethers, aliphatics, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, chlorides, and nitrides) from the three different fungi. From the results of our field experiments in 11 residential environments, passive air samplers led to higher correlations coefficients (0.08 to 0.86) between mVOCs’ air concentrations and airborne fungal concentrations, compared with active air samplers, which showed negative correlation coefficients (−0.99 to −0.02) for most compounds. This study elucidated the occurrence and temporal emission patterns of fungal VOCs in residential environments.
Transition from Laser to Intravitreal Injections for Diabetic Retinopathy: Hospital Utilization and Costs from an Extended Healthcare Perspective
Authors: Hertzberg Silvia Nanjala Walekhwa , Jørstad Øystein K. , Petrovski Beáta Éva , Bragadottir Ragnheidur , Steffensen Leif Arthur , Moe Morten Carstens , Burger Emily A. , Petrovski Goran
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To describe the trends in hospital utilization and economic outcomes associated with the transition from laser to intravitreal injection (IVI) therapy for diabetic retinopathy (DR) at Oslo University Hospital (OUH), which provides the largest retina service in Norway. Methods: This descriptive study analyzed hospital administrative data and determined the average utilization and treatment proportions of laser therapy, IVIs and vitrectomy for each patient per year. The Chi-square test was used to compare resource use between treatment groups. From an extended healthcare perspective, the annual cost per patient was calculated using Norwegian tariff data from 2020 and the National Medication Price Registry for patients seen between 2010 and 2018. Bootstrapping was performed to generate 95% confidence intervals for the cost per patient per year. Results: Among the 1838 (41% female) patients treated for DR between 2005 and 2018, OUH provided on average 1.09 laser treatments per DR patient and 0.54 vitrectomies per DR patient in 2005, whose utilization declined to 0.54 and 0.05 treatments per DR patient, respectively, by 2018. Laser treatments declined from 64% to 10%, while vitrectomies declined from 32% to 1%. In contrast, IVI treatments increased from 4.5% to 89% of the total share, representing an average increase, from 0.08 injections per patient in 2005 to 4.73 injections per patient in 2018. Both the increasing number of DR patients and the shift in the type of treatment increased the economic costs of treating DR from a total of EUR 0.605 million (EUR 2935 per patient) in 2010 to EUR 2.240 million (EUR 3665 per patient) in 2018, with IVIs contributing considerably to these costs. Conclusions: Despite the decline in the use of vitrectomies, the transition from laser to IVI therapy for DR increased the healthcare resource utilization and economic costs of its treatment over the observed time. A main cost driver was the need for long-term IVIs, in addition to the drug cost itself. Trade-offs can be achieved through effective alternative IVI delivery or appropriate drug choice that balances patient needs with the economic burden of treating DR.
Current Perspectives on the Determinants of Acceptability of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Nonoccupational Post-Exposure Prophylaxis among People at Risk for HIV: A Scoping Review
Authors: Zhou Lingmi , Assanangkornchai Sawitri
Published: October 2022

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and nonoccupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) were found to be effective HIV biomedical interventions. However, several barriers to acceptance of these interventions were discovered among populations at risk for HIV, and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may also exacerbate these. The current scoping review aims to update information in regards to facilitators and barriers for PrEP and nPEP acceptability among key populations collected in the past two years and to identify any existing knowledge gaps during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Of 1453 studies retrieved, 16 met the final inclusion criteria. The review synthesized a range of individual, PrEP-specific, psychosocial, and health system factors that may affect the acceptability of PrEP or nPEP. The conclusion from this scoping review is that more research is needed to enable a comprehensive understanding of the determinants of acceptability of PrEP and nPEP in the context of COVID-19, particularly among PWID and FSWs.
Religiosity Is Associated with Reduced Risk of All-Cause and Coronary Heart Disease Mortality among Jewish Men
Authors: Eilat-Adar Sigal , Hellerstein Devora , Goldbourt Uri
Published: October 2022

Previous studies have found an inverse association between religiosity and mortality. However, most of these studies were carried out with Christian participants. This longitudinal study aimed to determine whether a composite variable based on self-reported religious education and religious practices is associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) and all-cause mortality in 9237 Jewish men aged 40–65 years at baseline, over a 32-year follow-up. Jewish men were characterized by their degree of religiosity, from the Ultra-Orthodox (“Haredim”)—the strictest observers of the Jewish religious rules, and in descending order: religious, traditional, secular, and agnostic. Demographic and physical assessments were made in 1963 with a 32-year follow-up. The results indicate that Haredim participants, in comparison to the agnostic participants, had lower CHD mortality. Hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI)—adjusted by age, cigarette smoking, systolic blood pressure, diabetes, socioeconomic status, BMI, and cholesterol, was: [HR = 0.68 (95% CI 0.58,0.80)] for Haredim; [HR = 0.82 (95% CI 0.69,0.96)] for religious; [HR = 0.85 (95% CI 0.73–1.00)] for traditional; and [HR = 0.92 (95% CI 0.79–01.06) for secular, respectively (p for trend = 0.001). The same pattern was observed for total mortality. This study shows an association between religious practice among men and a decreased rate of CHD and total mortality.
Bio-Physics Approach to Urinary Incontinence Disabilities
Authors: Prosperi Loris , Barassi Giovanni , Panunzio Maurizio , Pellegrino Raffaello , Marinucci Celeste , Di Iulio Antonella , Colombo Antonio , Licameli Marco , Moccia Antonio , Melchionna Mario
Published: October 2022

Background: The terminology of urinary incontinence (UI) and pelvic floor dysfunctions is complex. It affects quality of life and daily activities in personal, social, and professional fields. Managing UI without pharmacologic therapies is effective with a low risk of adverse effects and a large benefit for increasing continence rates. The aim of this preliminary retrospective observational study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the association between manual therapy and focused mechano-acoustic vibrations in women with nonspecific UI. Materials and methods: A group of 15 incontinent women (mean age 59.5 ± 11.4), referred to the Physiotherapy Center, Rehabilitation and Re-education (Ce.Fi.R.R.), located at the University “Gabriele d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara from January 2019 December 2021, were enrolled after medical examination. The women were evaluated at T0 (admission protocol), T1 (after 8 weeks), and T2 (after 12 weeks). All patients received the rehabilitation protocol twice a week for a total of 8 weeks (T1) and were reevaluated after 12 weeks (T2). Outcome measures were: the Pelvic Floor Disability Index, the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire-7, and the MyotonPRO. Results: The analysis of MyotonPRO data showed no significant improvements in all parameters. The PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 questionnaire results showed a significant reduction in scores between T0 and T2.Results over time of the ANOVA values confirming the significant differences in the PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 questionnaire results but not in the MyotonPRO variables. Conclusions: Despite limitations and no significant results, this study demonstrated that the integration of manual and focused mechano-acoustic vibrations therapy improved the symptoms of UI and reduced its psychosocial impact. Further experience could be required to establish the place of this integrated approach in achieving long-term improvements in UI.
Air Pollution Increased the Demand for Gym Sports under COVID-19: Evidence from Beijing, China
Authors: Dong Xin , Yang Shili , Zhang Chunxiao
Published: October 2022

Air pollution may change people’s gym sports behavior. To test this claim, first, we used big data crawler technology and ordinary least square (OLS) models to investigate the effect of air pollution on people’ gym visits in Beijing, China, especially under the COVID-19 pandemic of 2019–2020, and the results showed that a one-standard-deviation increase in PM2.5 concentration (fine particulate matter with diameters equal to or smaller than 2.5 μm) derived from the land use regression model (LUR) was positively associated with a 0.119 and a 0.171 standard-deviation increase in gym visits without or with consideration of the COVID-19 variable, respectively. Second, using spatial autocorrelation analysis and a series of spatial econometric models, we provided consistent evidence that the gym industry of Beijing had a strong spatial dependence, and PM2.5 and its spatial spillover effect had a positive impact on the demand for gym sports. Such a phenomenon offers us a new perspective that gym sports can be developed into an essential activity for the public due to this avoidance behavior regarding COVID-19 virus contact and pollution exposure.
ERP Study of Mine Management System Warning Interface under Fatigue
Authors: Bai Yuxin , Shao Jiang , Zhang Ying , Chen Lulu , Zhao Xijie , Tian Fangyuan , Xue Chengqi
Published: October 2022

Due to the large volume of monitoring data in mines, concentrating on and reviewing the data for a long period of time will easily cause fatigue. To study the influence of different visual codes of early-warning interfaces on the response of individuals who are fatigued, the changes in the subjective fatigue and corresponding frequency waves are compared before and after a fatigue-inducing task, as well as using event-related potential to study the behavioral data and EEG signals of subjects who participated in an oddball task on an early-warning interface. The results showed that all 14 subjects became fatigued after the fatigue-inducing task, and the amplitude of P200 when text is used in a fatigued state was the largest, with the longest latency. The subjects showed a slower reaction time and a reduced accuracy rate, thus indicating that in designing a warning interface, when text rather than color is used as a visual code, the operating load will be larger, mental load is increased, and attention resources are consumed. The experimental results provide the basis for the design and evaluation of early-warning interfaces of mine management systems.
Use of Instant Messaging Software in a German Hospital—An Exploratory Investigation among Physicians
Authors: Sayegh-Jodehl Sabine , Mukowski-Kickhöfel Rebecca , Linke Diane , Müller-Birn Claudia , Rose Matthias
Published: October 2022

Internationally, evidence exists that physicians use instant messaging services for communication tasks in everyday clinical practice However, there are only few data on physicians in Germany in this regard. Therefore, at the initiation of our project “DocTalk-Dialog meets Chatbot: Collaborative Learning and Teaching in the Process of Work”, we conducted a stakeholder survey with an exploratory research approach. The aim was to gain initial insights into use of instant messaging software and attitudes towards data security and advantages and disadvantages before implementing a data-secure in-house messaging platform. N = 70 physicians at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin completed an exploratory questionnaire with closed and open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data using thematic analysis. The use of messenger software was not widespread in the sample studied. Physicians most frequently used face-to-face contact for communication. On average, up to ten instant messages were exchanged per day, mainly among colleagues, to answer mutual questions, and to send pictures. With a high awareness of privacy-related restrictions among participating physicians, advantages such as fast and uncomplicated communication were also highlighted. An instant messenger solution that complies with the German data protection guidelines is needed and should be investigated in more detail.
Impact of China’s Rural Land Marketization on Ecological Environment Quality Based on Remote Sensing
Authors: Li Zihao , Xie Xihang , Yan Xinyue , Bai Tingting , Xu Dong
Published: October 2022

The market entry of rural collective operating construction land (MERCOCL) is an important way for the Chinese government to promote the marketization of rural land. However, the impact of China’s Rural Land Marketization on the ecological environment quality (EEQ) remains to be understood. Understanding these mechanisms is necessary for regional sustainable development and rational resource allocation. Therefore, a universal assessment model of China’s regional EEQ was built based on the Landsat 5/8 and the national ecological index (EI) provided by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment at the national district and county scale. A total of 229 counties (32 pilot counties and other counties in the pilot cities) in China from 2011 to 2018 were taken as the research object. This paper empirically studied the evolution process, driving mechanism and spatial heterogeneity of EEQ from the perspective of MERCOCL. The study shows that China’s EEQ presented a spatial distribution pattern of “high in the south, low in the north, high in the east and low in the west”. When a county implemented the MERCOCL policy, its EEQ index increased by 0.342, with the improvement effect occurring in the second year after the MERCOCL implementation. Regarding the mechanism, MERCOCL mainly improved the EEQ by promoting industrial structure optimization and increasing urban population aggregation. From the perspective of spatial heterogeneity, the improvement effect of MERCOCL on EEQ was more significant in regions with lower economic development levels and latitudes (southern China). This study will facilitate an understanding of the impact of China’s rural land marketization on the EEQ and provide scientific data support for government departments to formulate sustainable urban development policies that meet local conditions.
Further Examination of the Psychometric Properties of the Multicomponent Mental Health Literacy Scale: Evidence from Chinese Elite Athletes
Authors: Wang Xiang , Liang Wei , Liu Jingdong , Zhang Chun-Qing , Duan Yanping , Si Gangyan , Bu Danran , Zhao Daliang
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Multicomponent Mental Health Literacy Scale (MMHLS) among Chinese elite athletes. Particularly, the factorial validity, convergent validity, discriminant validity, concurrent validity, internal-consistency reliability, and test-retest reliability of the MMHLS were examined. A total of 320 participants were recruited from the Guangdong provincial sports training center in China. Data collection was conducted between 30 June and 31 July 2020 using electronic questionnaires. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Rasch analysis, correlation analysis and independent-sample t-tests were conducted using Mplus 8.3 and ConQuest 2.0. The CFA results supported the factorial validity of the three-dimensional MMHLS, consisting of knowledge-oriented MHL, beliefs-oriented MHL, and resource-oriented MHL. Cronbach’s alpha and composite reliability coefficients supported the internal-consistency reliability of the MMHLS. Moreover, the convergent and discriminant validities were supported for the subdimension of MHL-Knowledge, MHL-Beliefs, and MHL-Resources. Concurrent validity was demonstrated through correlations between MMHLS, help-seeking attitudes, and stigma. Rasch analysis provided further evidence of the psychometric quality of the instrument in terms of its dimensionality, item fit statistics, and rating scale effectiveness. Finally, test–retest reliability was 0.66 after one month. In conclusion, the 24-item three-dimensional MMHLS was verified to be a reliable and valid measurement of mental health literacy in Chinese elite athletes.
Association of ACE2 Gene Variants with the Severity of COVID-19 Disease—A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Sienko Jerzy , Marczak Izabela , Kotowski Maciej , Bogacz Anna , Tejchman Karol , Sienko Magdalena , Kotfis Katarzyna
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus (SARS-CoV-2), has triggered an enormous scientific response. Many studies have focused on understanding the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus into the host cell. The angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) is recognized as the host receptor used by SARS-CoV-2 to enter its target cells. Recent studies suggest that ACE2 gene polymorphisms might be candidates for genetic susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of ACE2 polymorphisms on COVID-19 disease risk and severity. In our study, we confirmed that there is a statistically significant increased risk of a more severe disease course of SARS-CoV-2 infection associated with the need for hospitalization in intensive care for patients with specific polymorphisms of the ACE2 gene. The most significant correlation was found for variant ACE2 rs2285666 (AA allele, OR = 2.12, p = 0.0189) and ACE2 rs2074192 (TT allele, OR = 2.05, p = 0.0016), and for ACE2 rs4646174 (GG allele, OR = 1.93, p = 0.0016), ACE2 rs4646156 (TT allele OR = 1.71, p = 0.008) and ACE2 rs2158083 (TT allele OR = 1.84, p = 0.0025). In conclusion, our findings identify that certain ACE2 polymorphisms impact the severity of COVID-19 disease independently of other well-known risk factors.
Environmental Status and Human Health: Evidence from China
Authors: Cheng Suli , Xiang Zubing , Xi Haojun
Published: October 2022

In recent years, there have been growing concerns about the environment and its effect on human health. In this paper, we measure human health by mortality. Firstly, we use the method of deviation decomposition to investigate the different changes of mortality in eastern, central and western regions of China. Secondly, we study the linearity and nonlinearity between environmental status and mortality by semi–parametric additive panel model. Following is the primary conclusions obtained in the study: (1) There exists a big mortality gap among different regions; the gap is mainly dominated by the inter–regional difference; the mortality of the middle region increases heavily; the western region becomes a major source of mortality differences. (2) Mortality decreased with the increase of urban green area. On the other hand, the higher the environmental pollution index, the higher the mortality rate. (3) The environmental pollution index, urban green area, number of licensed (assistant) physicians per thousand and the per capita GDP can affect mortality in a nonlinear way.
The Impact of Social Supports on the Excessive Alcohol Use of the Middle-Aged Adults in South Korea: Do All Types of Social Supports Have Positive Effects on Excessive Alcohol Users?
Authors: Maeng Seong-Jun , Kim Kwang-Hyun , Kang Jun-Hyeok
Published: October 2022

The purpose of the study is to discuss the necessity of interventions on excessive alcohol use among middle-aged adult Koreans and attempt to investigate the effect of social supports including family support and friend support on excessive alcohol use. To achieve these goals, a self-administered online survey was conducted on middle-aged adult Koreans from 40 to 59 years old sampled through the convenience allocation extraction method, with responses of a total of 767 samples analyzed. The results from the analysis was that the support of the family reduced excessive alcohol use, whereas the support of friends provoked excessive alcohol use. Based on these results, the necessity of a distinction in the different types of social supports for interventions in excessive alcohol use was revealed. In addition, several practical and political implications for the alleviation of excessive alcohol use among middle-aged adults are recommended.
Selected Texan K-12 Educators’ Perceptions of Youth Suicide Prevention Training
Authors: McKoin Owens Melanie , Zickafoose Alexis , Wingenbach Gary , Haddad Sana , Freeny Jamie , Engels Josephine
Published: October 2022

K-12 school personnel may be frontline responders for youth contemplating suicide or other harmful behaviors. Therefore, the purpose of this preliminary study was to determine selected K-12 educators’ perceptions of youth suicide prevention (YSP) training. A longitudinal trend survey with repeated measures and proportionally stratified random samples of K-12 personnel from nine Texas independent school districts provided data. Participants’ perceived knowledge of the YSP content showed significant appreciative gains between pre- and follow-up post-tests. Likewise, their confidence levels for helping students at risk of suicide and approaching other adults to talk about students at risk of suicide rose significantly between pretests and follow-up post-tests. This preliminary study reinforces the value of training educators to acquire content knowledge and confidence boosting opportunities for engagement in difficult dialogue about suicidality. YSP training helped improve educators’ confidence to engage with others about students’ mental health concerns, calling attention to the importance of identifying early warning signs that may aid in early support and prevention of youth mental health concerns.
Hg Pollution Indices along the Reis Magos River Basin—Brazil: A Precursory Study
Authors: Sartori Eldis Maria , Dalfior Bruna Miurim , Provete Carolina Scocco , Cordeiro Suellen Geronimo , Dias Carneiro Maria Tereza Weitzel , Lelis Maria de Fátima Fontes , Barroso Gilberto Fonseca , Brandão Geisamanda Pedrini
Published: October 2022

Mercury is a metal present in the Earth’s crust, but due to human contribution, its concentration can increase, causing environmental impacts to aquatic ecosystems, among others. The Reis Magos River Hydrographic Basin represents economic and socio-environmental importance for the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. However, there are not many publications regarding the quality of water and sediments, so no data is reported concerning the total concentration of Hg. Thus, the present work aimed to evaluate the distribution of total Hg in water and sediments along this hydrographic basin. For a better inference, physicochemical parameters of the water were determined (temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), total dissolved solids (TDS), and salinity), and in the sediments, the contents of matter organic matter, pH, carbonates and granulometry. Mercury determination was performed by Thermodecomposition and Amalgamation Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (TDA AAS) with a DMA-80 spectrometer. The Hg determined in the water was lower than the limit of quantification, 0.14 µg∙L−1, which is lower than the maximum limits recommended by world reference environmental agencies. In the sediment samples, the Hg found were below 170 µg∙kg−1, values below which there is less possibility of an adverse effect on the biota. However, when the degree of anthropic contribution was evaluated using the Geoaccumulation index (IGeo), the contamination factor (CF), and the ecological risk potential index (EF), there was evidence of moderate pollution. Thus, this highlighted the need for monitoring the region since climatic variations and physical-chemical parameters influence the redistribution of Hg between the water/sediment interface.
National Survey: How Do We Approach the Patient at Risk of Clinical Deterioration outside the ICU in the Spanish Context?
Authors: Clemente Vivancos Álvaro , León Castelao Esther , Castellanos Ortega Álvaro , Bodi Saera Maria , Gordo Vidal Federico , Martin Delgado Maria Cruz , Jorge-Soto Cristina , Fernandez Mendez Felipe , Igeño Cano Jose Carlos , Trenado Alvarez Josep , Caballero Lopez Jesus , Parraga Ramirez Manuel Jose
Published: October 2022

Background: Anticipating and avoiding preventable intrahospital cardiac arrest and clinical deterioration are important priorities for international healthcare systems and institutions. One of the internationally followed strategies to improve this matter is the introduction of the Rapid Response Systems (RRS). Although there is vast evidence from the international community, the evidence reported in a Spanish context is scarce. Methods: A nationwide cross-sectional research consisting of a voluntary 31-question online survey was performed. The Spanish Society of Intensive, Critical and Coronary Care Medicine (SEMICYUC) supported the research. Results: We received 62 fully completed surveys distributed within 13 of the 17 regions and two autonomous cities of Spain. Thirty-two of the participants had an established Rapid Response Team (RRT). Common frequency on measuring vital signs was at least once per shift but other frequencies were contemplated (48.4%), usually based on professional criteria (69.4%), as only 12 (19.4%) centers used Early Warning Scores (EWS) or automated alarms on abnormal parameters. In the sample, doctors, nurses (55%), and other healthcare professionals (39%) could activate the RRT via telephone, but only 11.3% of the sample enacted this at early signs of deterioration. The responders on the RRT are the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), doctors, and nurses, who are available 24/7 most of the time. Concerning the education and training of general ward staff and RRT members, this varies from basic to advanced and specific-specialized level, simulating a growing educational methodology among participants. A great number of participants have emergency resuscitation equipment (drugs, airway adjuncts, and defibrillators) in their general wards. In terms of quality improvement, only half of the sample registered RRT activity indicators. In terms of the use of communication and teamwork techniques, the most used is clinical debriefing in 29 centers. Conclusions: In terms of the concept of RRS, we found in our context that we are in the early stages of the establishment process, as it is not yet a generalized concept in most of our hospitals. The centers that have it are in still in the process of maturing the system and adapting themselves to our context.
Quantifying the Carbon Reduction Potential of Recycling Construction Waste Based on Life Cycle Assessment: A Case of Jiangsu Province
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Guo Rong , Tian Junjie , Sun Honghao , Wang Yi , Li Haiyan , Yao Lu
Published: October 2022

The recycling of construction waste is key to reducing waste generation and CO2 emissions. This study aimed to develop a quantitative model for analyzing the carbon reduction potential of recycling construction, demolition, and renovation waste (CDRW) in Jiangsu province. The waste generation rate calculation method and nonlinear autoregressive artificial neural network model were used to estimate and predict CDRW generation. The life cycle assessment was performed to calculate the carbon reduction potential of recycling CDRW. In quantifying the carbon reduction potential, not only construction and demolition waste, but also renovation waste was considered for the first time. The results showed that the total carbon reduction potential of recycling CDRW increased from 3.94 Mt CO2e in 2000 to 58.65 Mt CO2e in 2020. Steel and concrete were the main contributors. By scenario analysis, the carbon reduction potential of fully recycling CDRW in 2020 increased by 37.79 Mt CO2e, a growth rate of 64%. The study further predicts future CDRW generation and the corresponding carbon reduction potential. Our conclusions indicate that 245.45 Mt of CDRW will be generated in 2030, and carbon reduction potential may reach 82.36 Mt CO2e. These results will help the government manage construction waste better and reach early achievement of the carbon peak target.
Effects of the Ketogenic Diet on Muscle Hypertrophy in Resistance-Trained Men and Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vargas-Molina Salvador , Gómez-Urquiza José L. , García-Romero Jerónimo , Benítez-Porres Javier
Published: October 2022

Reviews focused on the ketogenic diet (KD) based on the increase in fat-free mass (FFM) have been carried out with pathological populations or, failing that, without population differentiation. The aim of this review and meta-analysis was to verify whether a ketogenic diet without programmed energy restriction generates increases in fat-free mass (FFM) in resistance-trained participants. We evaluated the effect of the ketogenic diet, in conjunction with resistance training, on fat-free mass in trained participants. Boolean algorithms from various databases (PubMed, Scopus. and Web of Science) were used, and a total of five studies were located that related to both ketogenic diets and resistance-trained participants. In all, 111 athletes or resistance-trained participants (87 male and 24 female) were evaluated in the studies analyzed. We found no significant differences between groups in the FFM variables, and more research is needed to perform studies with similar ketogenic diets and control diet interventions. Ketogenic diets, taking into account the possible side effects, can be an alternative for increasing muscle mass as long as energy surplus is generated; however, their application for eight weeks or more without interruption does not seem to be the best option due to the satiety and lack of adherence generated.
Acute Effects of Ischemic Intra-Conditioning on 30 m Sprint Performance
Authors: Fostiak Krzysztof , Bichowska Marta , Trybulski Robert , Trabka Bartosz , Krzysztofik Michal , Rolnick Nicholas , Filip-Stachnik Aleksandra , Wilk Michal
Published: October 2022

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of ischemic intra-conditioning applied during rest intervals on 30 m sprint performance. Thirty-four trained male (n = 12) and female (n = 22) track and field and rugby athletes volunteered to participate in the study (age = 19.6 ± 4 years; training experience = 5.3 ± 1.9 years). In a randomized and counterbalanced order, participants performed six sets of 30 m sprints under three different testing conditions: without ischemic intra-conditioning, and with ischemic intra-conditioning at 60% or 80% arterial occlusion pressure applied bilaterally before the first trial of the sprint and during the rest periods between all sprint trials. During experimental sessions, subjects perform 6 × 30 m sprints with a 7 min rest interval between attempts. The cuffs were applied following a 1 min rest period and lasted for 5 min before being released at the 6th minute to allow for reperfusion (1 min + 5 min ischemic intra-conditioning + 1 min reperfusion). The two-way repeated measures ANOVA did not show statistically significant condition × set interaction for time of the sprint (p = 0.06; η2 = 0.05). There was also no main effect of ischemic intra-conditioning for any condition (p = 0.190; η2 = 0.05). This study indicates that ischemic intra-conditioning did not enhance the performance of 30 m sprints performed by athletes. However, ischemic intra-conditioning did not decrease performance either.
The Comprehensive Health Risk Assessment of Polish Smelters with Ecotoxicological Studies
Authors: Wróbel Magdalena , Trzyna Agnieszka , Zeynalli Farhad , Rybak Justyna
Published: October 2022

Air pollution connected to smelter activity can significantly deteriorate the quality of soil due to the precipitation of rain or simple deposition of the air particulates into the ground. Hence, in this study, we focused on the analysis of the soil which can inform us about the general state of the environment in the area and the possible health hazard for humans. If the top layer of the soil is in bad condition, it can indicate that air pollution in the area is also not in good condition, and the lives of the inhabitants of these areas can be at serious risk. To comprehensively identify the level of contamination in the soils from the areas of Polish smelters, studies of the concentration of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the soil were conducted. On the basis of the obtained results, health risk assessment was performed to verify the possible influence on human health. The results showed that the non-carcinogenic risk existed only for Oława, while the possibility of the carcinogenic risk occurred in all of the studied places. The outcome is very disturbing and certain steps must be undertaken in order to protect the lives of the inhabitants. Additionally, in order to assess the suitability of soils for the cultivation of edible plants, phytotoxicity tests were conducted. The obtained results revealed that in all the studied areas, a visible inhibition of roots and shoots can be observed. The conducted study indicated the most polluted regions and the possible health hazard, and it can provide the general information about the impact of smelters on the environment.
Retinal and Choroidal Effects of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure as Treatment for Sleep Apnea: Results at 12 Months
Authors: Naranjo-Bonilla Pedro , Giménez-Gómez Rafael , Muñoz-Villanueva María del Carmen , Jurado-Gámez Bernabé
Published: October 2022

Background: To determine the impacts of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on retinal and choroidal thickness measurement in individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods: Participants were 28 patients with OSA treated with CPAP who were enrolled immediately after diagnosis and graded according to the apnea hypopnea index (AHI) determined in an overnight polysomnography. Inclusion criteria were a new diagnosis of OSA and an indication for CPAP. Participants underwent a full ophthalmologic examination including standard automated perimetry (SAP) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) at the levels peripapillary, macular, and choroidal before CPAP onset, and after three and twelve months of CPAP. The data compared before and after treatment were intraocular pressure, SAP, and the thicknesses peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL), total retinal (TR), retinal ganglion cell layer (RGCL), inner plexiform layer (IPL), photoreceptor layer (PL), and choroidal. Results: After 3 months of CPAP, we observed thickening of the pRNFL (in 5/6 subfields) (p < 0.004) and TR (in 5/9 subfields) (p < 0.010). At 12 months, thickening persisted in these layers, this time affecting 2/6 and 2/9 subfields, respectively (p < 0.012 and p < 0.001, respectively). Choroidal thinning was observed at the temporal level at both 3 and 12 months compared to measurements before starting CPAP treatment (p = 0.014 and p = 0.038, respectively). SAP remained unchanged. Intraocular pressure was higher at 12 months than at 3 months (p = 0.001). Conclusions: 12 months of CPAP avoids retinal thinning and normalizes choroidal thickness in OSA patients.
Association between E-Cigarette Advertising Exposure and Use of E-Cigarettes among a Cohort of U.S. Youth and Young Adults
Authors: Do Vuong V. , Nyman Amy L. , Kim Yoonsang , Emery Sherry L. , Weaver Scott R. , Huang Jidong
Published: October 2022

Youth and young adult (YYA) use of e-cigarettes increased rapidly between 2010 and 2019 in the United States, during which exposure to e-cigarette advertising was also increased. We aimed to examine whether exposure to e-cigarette advertising among YYAs may lead to subsequent e-cigarette use. A cohort of 3886 YYAs ages 13–24 was recruited from two survey panels in 2018 and followed up until 2019. Survey data were collected online and by telephone. The primary outcome was past 30-day use of e-cigarettes at the follow-up survey. Among 2304 YYAs who retained at the follow-up survey and were not past 30-day e-cigarette users at baseline, both youth and young adults exposed to e-cigarette advertising at baseline had elevated odds of past 30-day e-cigarette use at follow-up (Youth adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.77, 95% CI: 1.23, 6.24; Young adults aOR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.08, 5.11) compared with those not reporting baseline advertising exposure. The majority of YYAs reported exposure to e-cigarette advertising at baseline (Youth: 63.7%, 95% CI: 59.8, 67.4; Young adults: 58.3%, 95% CI: 53.6, 62.8). Our findings suggest that exposure to e-cigarette advertising was associated with an increase in subsequent past 30-day use of e-cigarettes among YYAs. Restricting advertising targeted at YYAs may reduce the likelihood of e-cigarette use among YYAs.
Analysis of a State Police Academy Menu Cycle for Dietary Quality and Performance Nutrition Adequacy
Authors: Pepito Bryan Michael , Dawes Jay , Hildebrand Deana , Joyce Jillian
Published: October 2022

Law enforcement officers have high rates of overweight and obesity. With diet as a leading risk factor, training academies present an opportunity for early-career nutrition intervention. Our purpose was to determine the dietary quality (DQ) and performance nutrition adequacy of a state police academy’s cafeteria menu. This cross-sectional content analysis included six weeks (three daily meals, Monday–Friday) of a police academy menu. Nutrient content was determined by portioning menus, gathering food specifications, and performing nutrient analysis. DQ was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) 2015. Statistical analyses included independent t-tests and Cohen’s d. The total HEI score was 54/100. Subcomponent scores indicating adequacy included added sugar (5/5), total protein (4.97/5) and whole fruits (4.77/5). Seafood/plant proteins (0.33/5), fatty acid ratio (1.31/5), and dairy scores (1.59/10) needed significant improvement. The menu met the recommended intake for 13 of 19 nutrients investigated. Nutrients that did not meet adequacy were calories (% mean difference, needs-menu = 36.7%), carbohydrates (52.3%), vitamins D (82.5%) and E (66.7%), magnesium (44.1%), and potassium (41.8%). The academy menu leaves room for improvement in DQ and shortfall nutrients. By increasing low scores, the overall DQ of the menu will increase and supplement missing nutrients.
Mapping Research Trends of Adapted Sport from 2001 to 2020: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Liu Tao , Wassell Nicole , Liu John , Zhang Meiqi
Published: October 2022

Objectives: To identify the research landscape in terms of keywords, annual outputs, journals, countries, and institutions and explore the hot topics and prospects regarding adapted sport research. Materials and methods: Publications designated as “article” on adapted sport retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. VOSviewer 1.6.11, Citespace, and Bibliometrix in R Studio were applied for the bibliometric analyses. Results: A total of 1887 articles were identified. Over the past two decades, athletic performance, sociology/psychology, and rehabilitation were extensively investigated. Basketball, soccer, and swimming were the three most focused adapted sports. Researchers showed a growing interest in submitting their studies to sport science, rehabilitation, and sociological journals. Adapted sport research was more common in developed countries and regions. The UK contributed most publications accounting for about 20% of the total publications. Conclusions: With the growth of publications concerning adapted sport, the bibliometric analysis presented an overview of collaboration, trends, and hotspots in the field.
Description, Organization, and Individual Postgraduate Perspectives of One Italian School of Anesthesia and Intensive Care
Authors: Villani Matteo , Lob Valentina , Del Prete Anna , Guerra Emmanuele , Chili Elisabetta , Bertellini Elisabetta
Published: October 2022

Introduction: The study aims to describe the organization of one accredited school of Anesthesia and Intensive Care of University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy. The analysis of the post-graduation period aims to measure the time-to-first job, the perceived challenges, what postgraduate residents choose as first employ, and the overall satisfaction rating of a cohort of residents completing their training until 2017 with the usual and standard training program. Methods: We collected organization and administrative records of the five-year program of the A-IC School of 4 cohorts of residents who joined from 2009 to 2012 and we performed a survey. We also analyzed the differences among school cohorts during the medical training. In the end, it was investigated as a reason to choose hub hospitals or not. Results: The focus of the training activities revolved around the operating room with a mean of 30.41 ± 6.6 (sd), months followed by Intensive care with 17.29 ± 4.49 (sd) months. Although 7.5% of the respondents were not fully satisfied of the school’s program, 89.7% of residents rated their training as adequate. In fact, 97.2% respondents reported they could overcome the professional challenges they faced after graduation. The multiple variables logistic regression showed a correlation among working in hub hospitals and training performed in university hospitals with a p value of 0.015. Conclusion: This paper describes the postgraduation period. This point should be examined as an integral part of the accreditation procedure. Knowing the satisfaction rate, perception autonomy, and which type of hospitals are preferred can measure the education training capacity of a postgraduation school.
A Qualitative Systematic Review of Access to Substance Use Disorder Care in the United States Criminal Justice System
Authors: Barenie Rachel E. , Cernasev Alina , Jasmin Hilary , Knight Phillip , Chisholm-Burns Marie
Published: October 2022

Background: The majority of patients with a substance use disorder (SUD) in the United States do not receive evidence-based treatment. Research has also demonstrated challenges to accessing SUD care in the US criminal justice system. We conducted a systematic review of access to SUD care in the US criminal justice system. Methods: We searched for comprehensive qualitative studies in multiple databases through April 2021, and two researchers reviewed 6858 studies using pre-selected inclusion criteria. Once eligibility was determined, themes were extracted from the data. This review provides a thematic overview of the US qualitative studies to inform future research-based interventions. This review was conducted in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Results: There were 6858 unique abstract results identified for review, and seven qualitative studies met the inclusion criteria. Two themes were identified from these results: (1) managing withdrawal from medication-assisted treatment, and (2) facilitators and barriers to treatment programs in the criminal justice system. Conclusions: Qualitative research evaluating access to SUD care in the US criminal justice system varied, with some interventions reported not rooted in evidence-based medicine. An opportunity may exist to develop best practices to ensure evidence-based treatment for SUDs is delivered to patients who need it in the US criminal justice system.