bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interventions for School-Aged Children with Auditory Processing Disorder: A Scoping Review
Authors: Bigras Jacynthe , Lagacé Josée , El Mawazini Ahmed , Lessard-Dostie Héloïse
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Auditory processing (AP) disorder is associated with learning difficulties and poses challenges to school-aged children in their daily activities. This scoping review identifies interventions and provides audiologists with protocol insights and outcome measures. (2) Methods: A systematic search of both peer-reviewed and grey literature (January 2006 to August 2023) covered ten databases. Studies included had the following characteristics: (i) published in French or English; (ii) participants were school-aged, and had a normal audiogram, AP difficulties or disorder, and no cognitive, developmental, congenital or neurological disorder (with the exception of learning, attention, and language disabilities); (iii) were intervention studies or systematic reviews. (3) Results: Forty-two studies were included, and they predominantly featured auditory training (AT), addressing spatial processing, dichotic listening, temporal processing and listening to speech in noise. Some interventions included cognitive or language training, assistive devices or hearing aids. Outcome measures listed included electrophysiological, AP, cognitive and language measures and questionnaires addressed to parents, teachers or the participants. (4) Conclusions: Most interventions focused on bottom-up approaches, particularly AT. A limited number of top-down approaches were observed. The compiled tools underscore the need for research on metric responsiveness and point to the inadequate consideration given to understanding how children perceive change.
Self-Assessment of Lower Urinary Tract Condition in Female Competitive Cyclists
Authors: Saulicz Mariola , Saulicz Aleksandra , Saulicz Edward
Published: June 2024

During cycling, prolonged compression by the bicycle saddle on the anatomical structures located in the perineum area occurs. An additional factor that may have a negative impact on organs located in the pelvic area may be a prolonged sitting position resulting in increased intraabdominal pressure. This situation has the potential to adversely affect pelvic floor function. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) in female competitive road cyclists and cross-country cyclists. The study included 76 female competitive road cyclists and cross-country cyclists and 76 women not practising competitive sport. The Core Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Score (CLSS) questionnaire was used to assess the lower urinary tract condition. Female competitive cyclists had a statistically significantly higher LUTSs score (95% CI: 3.12–4.2 vs. 2.31–3.16; p < 0.05) compared to women not practising competitive sports. Female cyclists had a statistically significantly higher overall CLSS score (95% CI: 3.99–5.61 vs. 2.79–3.97; p < 0.05). Female cyclists had a statistically significantly higher incidence and severity of urinary frequency (p < 0.05 and p < 0.02), urge (p < 0.001 and p < 0.02) and stress incontinence (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001), and pain in the bladder (p < 0.01 and p < 0.01), while physically inactive women recorded a statistically higher incidence of slow urinary stream (p < 0.01 and p < 0.04). A statistically significant association was recorded between the years of cycling and the number of hours per week spent on training and the number of symptoms and their severity. The number of natural births experienced by women involved in competitive cycling significantly affects the severity of LUT symptoms. Compared to women not practising competitive sports, competitive female cyclists are found to have a higher prevalence of LUTSs and a greater degree of severity. LUTSs in competitive female cyclists are negatively influenced by years of competitive career and weekly number of training hours and the number of natural births experienced.
A Historical Landscape under Threat: Contestation and Preservation of Malta’s Pastoral Droveways
Authors: Alberti Gianmarco , Grima Reuben , Vella Nicholas C. , Xerri Kurt , Zammit David E.
Published: June 2024

Landscapes have been shaped and reshaped by humans to meet the changing needs of shifting subsistence strategies and demographic patterns. In the Mediterranean region, a widespread subsistence strategy that has left a major imprint is pastoralism, often tied with transhumance. Pastoralism and the associated tensions between pastoralists and settled agriculturalists have political and legal dimensions which are sometimes overlooked in mainstream accounts of national “patrimony”. The rapid transformations of subsistence strategies witnessed in the twentieth century have changed pastoral landscapes in diverse ways. This paper focusses on the central Mediterranean archipelago of Malta to explore how the values and management of such landscapes require holistic assessment, taking into account the intangible practices and embedded legal rights and obligations that maintained these systems. While in Malta pastoralism has practically disappeared, its physical imprint persists in the form of a network of droveways, which was once a carefully regulated form of commons. Burgeoning demographic growth is erasing large tracts of the historic environment. Against this backdrop of contestation, this paper draws on interdisciplinary approaches to interrogate the shifting legal and historical narratives through which pastoral landscapes have been managed, in the process revealing how dominant epistemological and legal frameworks are also implicated in the erasure of these landscapes.
Exploring Community Garden Coordinators’ Perceptions of Climate-Smart Adaptations to Support Local Food Systems
Authors: Erskine Olivia M. , Lamm Alexa J. , Sanders Catherine E. , Lamm Kevan W.
Published: June 2024

Extreme weather events, increased intensity of droughts and floods, and changes to growing seasons are results of climate change that impact horticulture, agriculture, and food systems. In the United States, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina experience similar impacts caused by climate change such as rising sea levels and extreme heat. In these states, community gardens can be a source of local, fresh foods, especially in areas experiencing food insecurity. The goals of this study were to identify garden coordinators’ perceptions of the need for climate change adaptation, perceptions regarding the five perceived attributes of climate change adaptation, and where community garden coordinators stand in the innovation–decision process when it comes to climate change adaptation. The findings show that participants valued relative advantage and low levels of complexity when adopting and implementing climate-smart practices into their gardens. This study found that the community gardens were all implementing some form of climate-smart adaptations even if implementation was not for climate-related reasons. All participants noted that the largest barrier to adopting new practices was a lack of extra money. The findings from this study should be used to inform environmental education and communication strategies that encourage adoption of climate-smart practices.
Structure and Function of Blueberry Fruit and Flowers: Stomata, Transpiration and Photoassimilation
Authors: Blanke Michael
Published: June 2024

Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) stands out among fruit in terms of three open physiological questions about its climacteric character, CO2 uptake, and the absence or presence of stomata on its floral organs. The objective of the present study was to examine the structures of blueberry flowers and fruit to explain their contribution to CO2 exchange and transpiration in order to clarify these discrepancies. Blueberries were dewaxed and the sepals/corolla removed for stomata counts, and their micromorphology was studied via LT-SEM. The fruit has stomata, contrary to beliefs in the literature, possibly because the stomata are occluded by the dense wax cover or ‘bloom’ and hidden on the distal part of the ovary in between and underneath the corolla. However, stomata were located on the distal part of the fruit surrounded by the sepals (calyx) and found predominantly on the abaxial sepals, while the adaxial side of the sepals and the proximal part of the ovary lacked stomata. The petals were devoid of stomata, trichomes, and chlorophyll and abscised after anthesis. In contrast, the sepals remained until maturity, contributing 5–7% to the berry surface but contributing to the majority of fruit stomata and chlorophyll. With 59–71% of the fruit’s chlorophyll, sepals were a significant source of the CO2 uptake. Similarly, with 95% of the berry stomata, sepals were a significant source of water loss, measured via porometry of fruit with and without sepals. Overall, this study identified the ovary as a minor source and sepals as the dominant source of CO2 and H2O exchange in blueberries.
Seroprevalence of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibodies in Healthcare Personnel in El Salvador Prior to Vaccination Campaigns
Authors: Ramírez José Elías Aguilar , Maliga Adrianna , Stewart Allison , Lino Allison , Oliva José Eduardo , Sandoval Xochitl , Zielinski-Gutierrez Emily , Chacon-Fuentes Rafael , Suchdev Parminder S. , Zelaya Susana , Sánchez Mario , Recinos Delmy Lisseth , López Beatriz , Hawes Ella , Liu Julie , Ronca Shannon E. , Gunter Sarah M. , Murray Kristy O. , Domínguez Rhina
Published: June 2024

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is a highly pathogenic emerging infectious disease. Healthcare personnel (HCP) are presumably at higher risk of acquiring emerging infections because of occupational exposure. The prevalence of COVID-19 in HCP is unknown, particularly in low- to middle-income countries like El Salvador. The goal of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among HCP in El Salvador just prior to vaccine rollout in March 2021. We evaluated 2176 participants from a nationally representative sample of national healthcare institutions. We found 40.4% (n = 880) of the study participants were seropositive for anti-spike protein antibodies. Significant factors associated with infection included younger age; living within the central, more populated zone of the country; living in a larger household (≥7 members); household members with COVID-19 or compatible symptoms; and those who worked in auxiliary services (i.e., housekeeping and food services). These findings provide insight into opportunities to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 risk and other emerging respiratory pathogens in HCP in El Salvador.
Analysing the Spatio-Temporal Variations of Urban Street Summer Solar Radiation through Historical Street View Images: A Case Study of Shanghai, China
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhang Longhao , He Jie
Published: June 2024

Understanding solar radiation in urban street spaces is crucial for comprehending residents’ environmental experiences and enhancing their quality of life. However, existing studies rarely focus on the patterns of urban street solar radiation over time and across different urban and suburban areas. In this study, street view images from the summers of 2013 and 2019 in Shanghai were used to calculate solar radiation in urban street spaces. The results show a general decrease in street solar radiation in 2019 compared to 2013, with an average drop of 12.34%. The decrease was most significant in October (13.47%) and least in May (11.71%). In terms of solar radiation data gathered from street view sampling points, 76.57% showed a decrease, while 23.43% showed an increase. Spatially, solar radiation decreased by 79.66% for every additional 1.5 km from the city centre. In summary, solar radiation generally shows a decreasing trend, with significant variations between different areas. These findings are vitally important for guiding urban planning, optimising green infrastructure, and enhancing the urban ecological environment, further promoting sustainable urban development and improving residents’ quality of life.
Mitochondrial One-Carbon Metabolism and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yu Yizhou , Martins L. Miguel
Published: June 2024

Mitochondrial one-carbon metabolism provides carbon units to several pathways, including nucleic acid synthesis, mitochondrial metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and methylation reactions. Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease is the most common age-related neurodegenerative disease, characterised by impaired energy metabolism, and is potentially linked to mitochondrial bioenergetics. Here, we discuss the intersection between the molecular pathways linked to both mitochondrial one-carbon metabolism and Alzheimer’s disease. We propose that enhancing one-carbon metabolism could promote the metabolic processes that help brain cells cope with Alzheimer’s disease-related injuries. We also highlight potential therapeutic avenues to leverage one-carbon metabolism to delay Alzheimer’s disease pathology.
Effects of Ultraviolet-C Exposure on Western Flower Thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis, and Ornamental Plants
Authors: Davari Agrin , Sullivan Cheryl F. , Rea Mark S. , Skinner Margaret , Parker Bruce L.
Published: June 2024

Western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (WFT), is one of the most destructive insect pests of vegetables and ornamental crops globally. Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) exposure has been shown to reduce populations of arthropod pests, including whiteflies and two-spotted spider mites, but has not been fully assessed for WFT. The goal of this study was to determine if UV-C radiance could be a viable strategy for inclusion in integrated pest management (IPM) programs for WFT. The objectives were to (1) assess the relationship among UV-C dose (irradiance × duration) and mortality of WFT adults and second instar larvae, (2) determine the effect of UV-C on WFT fecundity and egg hatch, and (3) assess the effect of the WFT lethal dose of UV-C on three WFT-prone ornamental plants. A UV-C dose is measured in Joules, which equals power (watts) × exposure time. A dose-dependent relationship between UV-C exposure and mortality of WFT larvae and adults was observed. At the doses of 0.98 and 0.68 J/cm2 (5 and 4 min exposure, respectively), 50% of the larvae died within 24 and 48 h, respectively. The UV-C dose needed to achieve 50% mortality was higher for adults than larvae, occurring at 5.2 and 4.4 J/cm2 (35 min and 25 min exposure, respectively) within 72 and 120 h, respectively. The number of eggs laid by surviving WFT subjected to UV-C treatment was less than by those that were untreated, and the egg-laying period was significantly shorter among those treated with UV-C. When leaves containing WFT eggs were exposed to UV-C doses known to cause 30–40% mortality in adults, 86–98% fewer eggs hatched compared to untreated controls. Ornamental plants exposed to UV-C doses lethal to eggs, second instars, and adult WFT either showed no damage, or when damage occurred, plants recovered within 14–30 days. Additional studies under controlled greenhouse conditions are needed to elucidate the effectiveness of UV-C radiance against WFT over time and its compatibility with biological control and other IPM practices.
Pediatric Carotid Injury after Blunt Trauma and the Necessity of CT and CTA—A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Krüger Lukas , Kamp Oliver , Alfen Katharina , Theysohn Jens , Dudda Marcel , Becker Lars
Published: June 2024

Background: Blunt carotid injury (BCI) in pediatric trauma is quite rare. Due to the low number of cases, only a few reports and studies have been conducted on this topic. This review will discuss how frequent BCI/blunt cerebrovascular injury (BCVI) on pediatric patients after blunt trauma is, what routine diagnostics looks like, if a computed tomography (CT)/computed tomography angiography (CTA) scan on pediatric patients after blunt trauma is always necessary and if there are any negative health effects. Methods: This narrative literature review includes reviews, systematic reviews, case reports and original studies in the English language between 1999 and 2020 that deal with pediatric blunt trauma and the diagnostics of BCI and BCVI. Furthermore, publications on the risk of radiation exposure for children were included in this study. For literature research, Medline (PubMed) and the Cochrane library were used. Results: Pediatric BCI/BCVI shows an overall incidence between 0.03 and 0.5% of confirmed BCI/BCVI cases due to pediatric blunt trauma. In total, 1.1–3.5% of pediatric blunt trauma patients underwent CTA to detect BCI/BCVI. Only 0.17–1.2% of all CTA scans show a positive diagnosis for BCI/BCVI. In children, the median volume CT dose index on a non-contrast head CT is 33 milligrays (mGy), whereas a computed tomography angiography needs at least 138 mGy. A cumulative dose of about 50 mGy almost triples the risk of leukemia, and a cumulative dose of about 60 mGy triples the risk of brain cancer. Conclusions: Given that a BCI/BCVI could have extensive neurological consequences for children, it is necessary to evaluate routine pediatric diagnostics after blunt trauma. CT and CTA are mostly used in routine BCI/BCVI diagnostics. However, since radiation exposure in children should be as low as reasonably achievable, it should be asked if other diagnostic methods could be used to identify risk groups. Trauma guidelines and clinical scores like the McGovern score are established BCI/BCVI screening options, as well as duplex ultrasound.
The Expression of microRNAs and Their Involvement in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Patronia Maria-Markella , Potiris Anastasios , Mavrogianni Despoina , Drakaki Eirini , Karampitsakos Theodoros , Machairoudias Pavlos , Topis Spyridon , Zikopoulos Athanasios , Vrachnis Dionysios , Moustakli Efthalia , Skentou Chara , Domali Ekaterini , Vrachnis Nikolaos , Drakakis Peter , Stavros Sofoklis
Published: June 2024

Background: Recurrent pregnancy loss refers to the spontaneous demise of two or more pregnancies before the 24 weeks of gestation. In almost half of the cases of recurrent miscarriages, the causes remain unknown since there is no reliable way of prognosis, early diagnosis, or treatment. Recent research has detected differential expression of certain miRNAs in reproductive system pathologies. Methods: The aim of the present review is to focus on microRNAs and their relationship with idiopathic recurrent miscarriages and to correlate miRNA expression with recurrent miscarriage and examine their potential role as biomarkers. Pubmed/Medline and Scopus databases were searched up to 31st January 2024 with terms related to recurrent pregnancy loss and miRNAs. Results: In total, 21 studies were selected for the review. A total of 75 different miRNAs were identified, showing a statistically significant differential expression. Around 40 miRNAs had increased expression, such as miR-520, miR-184 and miR-100-5p, 21 decreased, such as let-7c, and 14 had either increased or decreased expression depending on the study, such as miR-21. Conclusions: The dysregulation of miRNA expression is strongly associated with recurrent miscarriages. The circulating in the peripheral blood miRNAs, miR-100-5p and let-7c, might be utilized as biomarkers and establish a valuable non-invasive prognostic and diagnostic tool in the future.
Functional Level and Dynamic Posturography Results Two Years after Vestibular Neurectomy in Patients with Severe Meniere’s Disease
Authors: Jasińska-Nowacka Agnieszka , Lachowska Magdalena , Niemczyk Kazimierz
Published: June 2024

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcomes and balance compensation in patients with severe Meniere’s disease after vestibular neurectomy. Methods: Pre- and postoperative results were analyzed in twenty patients with unilateral Meniere’s disease before and two years after vestibular neurectomy. Clinical evaluation was performed using a subjective grading scale proposed by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory. Sensory organization test results were analyzed to assess the balance system before and after the surgery. Results: All patients reported a complete resolution of vertigo attacks after the vestibular neurectomy; 95% of patients reported functional level improvement according to a scale proposed by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and the average score decreased from 4.5 to 1.6. Clinical improvement, evaluated with the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, was present in all patients, with the average result decreasing from 81.7 to 16.4. Analyzing both grading systems, differences between pre- and postoperative results were statistically significant. No statistically significant differences were found between the sensory organization test results before and after vestibular neurectomy. Significant correlations were found between a patient’s age and postoperative results of the Dizziness Handicap Inventory and posturography. Conclusions: Vestibular neurectomy is an effective vertigo treatment in patients with severe Meniere’s disease with no clinical improvement despite conservative treatment. It results in subjective physical, functional, and emotional improvement, enabling patients to return to daily activities and work. An appropriate qualification of patients and comprehensive preoperative evaluation are essential to obtaining satisfactory clinical outcomes.
Observation Safely Reduces the Use of the Computerized Tomography in Medium-to-Low-Risk Patients with Suspected Acute Appendicitis: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Luksaite-Lukste Raminta , Gecaite Igne , Marcinkeviciute Kristina , Dumskis Eimantas , Samuilis Arturas , Zvirblis Tadas , Jasiunas Eugenijus , Bausys Augustinas , Drungilas Mantas , Luksta Martynas , Kryzauskas Marius , Petrulionis Marius , Beisa Augustas , Uselis Simonas , Valeikaite-Taugininene Gintare , Rackauskas Rokas , Strupas Kestutis , Poskus Tomas
Published: June 2024

Objectives—The objective was to compare the effectiveness of observation in standard-of-care computed tomography (CT) in adult patients with suspected acute appendicitis (AA). Methods—Patients with clinically suspected AA and inconclusive diagnosis after primary clinical examination, laboratory examination, and transabdominal ultrasound (TUS) were eligible for the study, and they were randomized (1:1) to parallel groups: observation-group patients were observed for 8–12 h and then, repeated clinical and laboratory examinations and TUS were performed; CT group (control group) patients underwent abdominopelvic CT scan. The study utilized Statistical Analysis System 9.2 for data analysis, including tests, logistic regression, ROC analysis, and significance evaluation. Patients were enrolled in the study at Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos in Lithuania between December 2018 and June 2021. Results—A total of 160 patients (59 men, 101 women), with a mean age of 33.7 ± 14.71, were included, with 80 patients in each group. Observation resulted in a reduced likelihood of a CT scan compared with the CT group (36.3% vs. 100% p < 0.05). One diagnostic laparoscopy was performed in the observation group; there were no cases of negative appendectomy (NA) in the CT group. Both conditional CT and observation pathways resulted in high sensitivity and specificity (97.7% and 94.6% vs. 96.7% and 95.8%). Conclusions—Observation including the repeated evaluation of laboratory results and TUS significantly reduces the number of CT scans without increasing NA numbers or the number of complicated cases.
Sex-Differences in Response to Treatment with Liraglutide 3.0 mg
Authors: Milani Ilaria , Guarisco Gloria , Chinucci Marianna , Gaita Chiara , Leonetti Frida , Capoccia Danila
Published: June 2024

Background: Sex differences characterize the prevalence and attitudes toward weight management. Despite limited evidence suggesting greater weight loss in women with anti-obesity pharmacotherapy, sex-specific analysis remains underexplored. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the sex-specific response to liraglutide 3.0 mg treatment in people with obesity without type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: Data were collected from 47 patients (31 women, 16 men) with age > 18 years; BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2; absence of T2D; and exclusion of prior anti-obesity treatment, comorbidities, or bariatric surgery. Only patients who maintained the liraglutide 3.0 mg dose for at least 6 months were included. Results: Both sexes showed significant reductions in weight and BMI at 3 and 6 months. Men achieved greater weight loss (WL), BMI reduction, %WL, WL > 5%, and >10% than women, and they also showed more significant improvements in metabolic parameters (total and LDL cholesterol, Fibrosis-4 Index FIB-4). No significant sex differences were observed in glucose metabolism or renal function. Conclusions: This study showed a greater therapeutic effect of liraglutide 3.0 mg in men. Given men’s higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and underrepresentation in clinical weight loss programs, these findings may increase male engagement and improve their CVD risk.
The Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Sexual Lives of Polish Young Adults
Authors: Perenc Helena , Pasieka Karolina , Juruś Kamil , Bierć Karolina , Bieś Rafał , Krzystanek Marek , Warchala Anna
Published: June 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant changes to daily life in Poland, with restrictions affecting various sectors, including entertainment, education, and travel. The pandemic’s impact extended to intimate aspects of life. This study aimed to compare the sexual functioning of young adults in Poland before and during the pandemic, using the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ-14). Methods: The research involved an online survey with demographic questions, the CSFQ-14 for pre-pandemic sexual functioning, and modified CSFQ-14 questions for the pandemic period. Sexual dysfunction was determined using predefined cutoff scores. Results: Overall, the study found no significant difference in the sexual functioning of young Poles during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to before. However, there were gender-specific trends. Women reported enhanced pleasure, satisfaction, and orgasm during lockdown, while men faced challenges with erection and ejaculation. A higher proportion of women experienced overall sexual dysfunction compared to men, both before and during the pandemic. This research provides insights into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sexual lives of young Poles. While overall sexual functioning remained relatively stable, specific aspects varied by gender. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the need to consider demographic factors, such as age and gender, when assessing the effects of external stressors like a pandemic on sexual health. Further research is essential to fully grasp these complexities and their potential long-term consequences.
Italian National Surveillance of Alcohol-Based Hand Rub Consumption in a Healthcare Setting—A Three-Year Analysis: 2020–2022
Authors: Caramia Alessandra , Petrone Daniele , Isonne Claudia , Battistelli Francesco , Sisi Sauro , Boros Stefano , Fadda Giulia , Vescio Maria Fenicia , Grossi Adriano , Barchitta Martina , Baccolini Valentina , Pezzotti Patrizio , D’Ancona Fortunato
Published: June 2024

Background/Objectives: Hand hygiene (HH) is pivotal in mitigating infectious disease transmission and enhancing public health outcomes. This study focuses on detailing the national surveillance system for alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) consumption in healthcare facilities across Italy, presenting results from a comprehensive three-year evaluation period, from 2020 to 2022. It aims to delineate this surveillance system and report on ABHR consumption trends in various Regions/Autonomous Provinces (Rs/APs). Methods: ABHR consumption data, collected through the ABHR Italian national surveillance system, coordinated by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), were analyzed. Statistical methods, e.g., the Mann–Whitney test, were used to assess trends in ABHR consumption, expressed in liters per 1000 patient days (L/1000PD). Results: The results show significant variation in ABHR consumption across Rs/APs and over the years studied. National median ABHR consumption decreased from 2020 to 2022, with a significant reduction from a median of 24.5 L/1000PD in 2020 to 20.4 L/1000PD in 2021 and 15.6 L/1000PD in 2022. Conclusions: The decline in ABHR consumption raises concerns about the ongoing adherence to HH practices in Italian healthcare settings. This underscores the essential role that systematic ABHR monitoring and improved surveillance play in enhancing HH compliance, suggesting that sustained and strategic efforts are fundamental to uphold high standards of hygiene and to effectively respond to fluctuating ABHR usage trends over time. Further research is needed to explore barriers to effective ABHR use and to develop targeted strategies to improve HH practices.
Theoretical Assessment of the Environmental Impact of the Preheating Stage in Thermoplastic Composite Processing: A Step toward Sustainable Manufacturing
Authors: Hosseini Abbas
Published: June 2024

Manufacturing processes have always played a pivotal role in the life cycle assessment of products, necessitating focused efforts to minimize their impact on the environment. Thermoplastic composite manufacturing is no exception to this concern. Within thermoplastic composite manufacturing, the preheating process stands out as one of the most energy-intensive stages, significantly affecting the environment. In this study, a theoretical analysis is conducted to compare three modes of preheating: conductive, radiative, and convective modes, considering their energy consumption and environmental impact. The analysis reveals the potential for substantial energy savings and emissions reduction through the selection of a proper preheating mode. Since the analysis used in this study is theoretical, it facilitates a parametric study of different modes of preheating to assess how process parameters impact the environment. Moreover, this study includes a comparison between emissions from material production and the preheating process, highlighting the substantial contribution of the preheating process to the overall product life cycle assessment.
Developing an Artificial Intelligence-Based Method for Predicting the Trajectory of Surface Drifting Buoys Using a Hybrid Multi-Layer Neural Network Model
Authors: Song Miaomiao , Hu Wei , Liu Shixuan , Chen Shizhe , Fu Xiao , Zhang Jiming , Li Wenqing , Xu Yuzhe
Published: June 2024

Accurately predicting the long-term trajectory of a surface drifting buoy (SDB) is challenging. This paper proposes a promising solution to the SDB trajectory prediction based on artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Initially, a scalable mathematical model for trajectory prediction is developed, transforming the challenge of predicting trajectory points into predicting velocities in eastward and northward directions. Subsequently, a four-layer trajectory prediction calculation framework (FLTPCF) is established, outlining a complete workflow for the real-time online training of marine environment data and SDBs’ trajectory prediction. Thirdly, for facilitating accurate long-term trajectory prediction, a hybrid artificial neural network trajectory prediction model, named CNN–BiGRU–Attention, integrates a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit (BiGRU), and Attention mechanism (AM), tuned for spatiotemporal feature extraction and extended time-series reasoning. Extensive experiments, including ablation studies, comparative analyses with state-of-the-art models like BiLSTM and Transformer, evaluations against numerical methods, and adaptability tests, were conducted for justifying the CNN–BiGRU–Attention model. The results highlight the CNN–BiGRU–Attention model’s excellent convergence, accuracy, and generalization capabilities in predicting 24, 48, and 72 h trajectories for SDBs with varying drogue statuses and under different sea conditions. This work has great potential to promote the intelligent degree of marine environmental monitoring.
Spatial-Temporal Ship Pollution Distribution Exploitation and Harbor Environmental Impact Analysis via Large-Scale AIS Data
Authors: Chen Xinqiang , Dou Shuting , Song Tianqi , Wu Huafeng , Sun Yang , Xian Jiangfeng
Published: June 2024

Ship pollution emissions have attracted increasing attention in the maritime field due to the massive growth of maritime traffic activities. It is important to identify the ship emissions (SEs) magnitude and corresponding spatial and temporal distributions for the purposes of developing appropriate strategies to mitigate environment pollution. The aim of this study was to estimate ship pollution emissions with various typical merchant ship types under different sailing conditions. We estimated the emission variation with a ship traffic emission assessment model (STEAM2), and then the ship pollution emission distribution was further visualized using ArcGIS. We collected data from the automatic identification system (AIS) for ships in New York Harbor and further analyzed the spatiotemporal distribution of pollutant emissions from ships. The experimental results demonstrate that the ship pollutant emission volume in the New York Harbor area in 2022 was 3340 t, while the pollution in terms of CO, SO2, CXHX, PM10, NOX, and PM2.5 was 136, 1421, 66, 185, 1384, and 148 t, respectively. The overall SEs from container ships, passenger ships, and tankers account for a large amount of pollution discharge. The pollutant emissions of container ships are significantly greater than that of their counterparts. Moreover, the spatiotemporal distributions of ship pollutant discharge can vary significantly among different ship types and sailing conditions.
Human Capital, Life Satisfaction, and the Floating Population’s Urban Settlement Intention in Cities—A Case Study of Six Cities in the Pearl River Delta
Authors: Jiang Qinyi , Wang Yuanyuan , Ye Xiaomei , Li Xinger , Pan Weimin , Wang Yuqu
Published: June 2024

The urban settlement intention of the floating population and its influencing factors have received widespread attention, but there is less literature on the relationship between human capital, life satisfaction, and the urban settlement intention of the floating population. Employing 2146 questionnaire data from the Pearl River Delta’s floating population, this study establishes measurement indicators for human capital and life satisfaction, constructs a structural equation model, and examines the influence of human capital on life satisfaction, as well as their collective impact on the floating population’s urban settlement intentions. The findings reveal that human capital influences multiple facets of the floating population’s life satisfaction, which subsequently shapes its desire to settle. Considering individual life satisfaction, the economic well-being and social security contentment of the floating population exert a notable impact on its urban settlement intentions, whereas satisfaction with emotional life and public service facilities appears to have a less pronounced effect. Further investigation into how varying levels of human capital modulate the influence of life satisfaction on urban settlement intentions, alongside the transition from fundamental economic security to psychological needs (about life satisfaction), holds substantial referential value for research on population migration and the development of citizenship policies in China.
Spatial-Temporal Evolution of Agricultural Carbon Balance at Township Scale and Carbon Compensation Zoning: A Case Study of Guangshui City, Hubei Province
Authors: Yang Zhengkun , Zhang Xuesong , Hu Xiurong , Zhou Xiaowen
Published: June 2024

Optimizing agricultural carbon compensation zoning is crucial for establishing robust mechanisms in agricultural carbon compensation management, with significant implications for achieving national “dual carbon” strategic objectives. This study employs K-means and the three-dimensional magic cube approach to construct a novel evaluation index system for comprehensive carbon compensation zoning. By combining spatial land-use zoning, we delineate carbon compensation zones in Guangshui City, Hubei Province, and analyze the spatiotemporal variations of agricultural carbon balance, proposing optimization strategies. The results show that (1) from 2000 to 2021, agricultural carbon emissions and absorption exhibit a trend of increasing followed by decreasing, with spatial patterns of “higher in the northwest, lower in the southeast” and “higher in the southwest, lower in the northeast”; (2) the Gini coefficient of agricultural carbon emissions averages at 0.24, with economic contribution coefficients and ecological carrying coefficients ranging from 0.04–16.1 and 0.39–1.99, respectively, from 2000 to 2021; and (3) in 2021, Guangshui City comprises seven payment zones, four balance zones, and six compensation zones, ultimately forming eight optimized agricultural carbon compensation zones in alignment with regional agricultural carbon balance objectives. This study provides theoretical references for enhancing county-level agricultural carbon comprehensive compensation management mechanisms.
An Assessment of Urban Residential Environment Quality Based on Multi-Source Geospatial Data: A Case Study of Beijing, China
Authors: Zhang Shijia , Xia Yang , Li Zijuan , Li Xue , Wu Yufei , Liu Peiyi , Du Shouhang
Published: June 2024

Assessing the urban residential environment quality (REQ) is essential for advancing sustainable urban development and enhancing urban residents’ living standards. Traditional REQ assessments rely on statistical data, prone to delays and lacking holistic insight. This study takes residential blocks as the analysis units and is conducted within the area of the Sixth Ring Road in Beijing. It synthesizes multi-source geospatial data to devise a comprehensive framework for assessing urban REQ, incorporating facets of environmental health and comfort, housing comfort, transportation convenience, city security, and life convenience. Utilizing the principle of minimal relative informational entropy, this study integrates the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with the entropy method to determine the weight of each evaluative criterion. Subsequently, a linear weighting technique is employed to ascertain the scores for each evaluative criterion, thus facilitating a detailed examination of the REQ. Finally, the research probes into the complex interrelation between the assessed REQ and the city’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and carbon emissions across varying scales. Findings reveal that (1) the overall REQ within Beijing’s Sixth Ring Road is superior at the center and diminishes towards the periphery. (2) The dispersion of environmental health and comfort and city security metrics is relatively uniform, showing minor variations; however, a marked disparity is observed in the distribution of housing comfort metrics. (3) Regions characterized by higher GDP tend to demonstrate relatively higher levels of the REQ. Conversely, areas boasting higher-quality urban REQ are more inclined to exhibit increased levels of carbon emissions.
Cross-Scriptal Orthographic Influence on Second Language Phonology
Authors: Shepperd Louise
Published: June 2024

Learners of additional languages, particularly in adulthood and instructed settings, are typically exposed to large quantities of written input from the earliest stages of learning, with varied and far-reaching effects on L2 phonology. Most research investigating this topic focuses on learning across languages that share the same orthographic script, often involving the Latin alphabet and English. Without exploring phonological learning over a greater diversity of spoken and written language combinations, our understanding of orthographic effects on L2 phonology remains narrow and unrepresentative of the many individuals acquiring languages across writing systems, globally. This paper draws together preliminary research relating to the influence of written input, in a distinct script from known languages, on L2 phonology. Studies are grouped into those with naïve participants, where the written forms are entirely unfamiliar to the participant, and those with experienced learners, who have varying levels of proficiency and familiarity with the target orthography. While there is great scope and need for further investigation, initial evidence suggests that even entirely unfamiliar written input impacts phonological learning and is certainly influential with growing proficiency in the spoken and written language. The article concludes with theoretical and methodological considerations for future research in this emerging field.
Exploring the Role of Self-Efficacy in Maintaining Healthy Lifestyle Habits among Patients with Cardiometabolic Diseases; Findings from the Multi-Center IACT Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kalantzi Vasiliki , Tsiampalis Thomas , Kouvari Matina , Belitsi Vasiliki , Zairis Antonios , Migdanis Athanasios , Papadopoulou Sousana K. , Bonoti Fotini , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B. , Kosti Rena I.
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Cardiometabolic disease progression can be delayed if patients engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors, adherence to which is highly influenced by psychosocial factors. The present study aimed at investigating the association of self-efficacy with the adherence level to healthy lifestyle behaviors among patients with cardiometabolic diseases in Greece. (2) Methods: 1988 patients (1180 females) with cardiometabolic diseases participated. Anthropometric, demographic, socioeconomic, clinical, and lifestyle characteristics were recorded. Patients were also asked to evaluate their efficacy to comply with healthy lifestyle behaviors. (3) Results: The majority exhibited unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. A subgroup demonstrated elevated self-efficacy in maintaining healthy habits despite facing diverse psychosocial challenges. Individuals with higher educational attainment, socioeconomic status, and rural/semi-urban residency had significantly elevated self-efficacy. Those with heightened self-efficacy exhibited significantly lower BMI and reduced prevalence of certain health conditions. Self-efficacy significantly influenced adherence to the Mediterranean diet, physical activity engagement, and smoking cessation, even in challenging circumstances. (4) Conclusions: This study represented an innovative approach in examining the role of self-efficacy in shaping health behaviors and outcomes within a Greek population. By integrating specific psychosocial circumstances into the analysis, valuable insights were provided into the contextual factors influencing self-efficacy and adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviors.
Electrophysiology Methods for Assessing of Neurodegenerative and Post-Traumatic Processes as Applied to Translational Research
Authors: Shigapova Rezeda Ramilovna , Mukhamedshina Yana Olegovna
Published: June 2024

Electrophysiological studies have long established themselves as reliable methods for assessing the functional state of the brain and spinal cord, the degree of neurodegeneration, and evaluating the effectiveness of therapy. In addition, they can be used to diagnose, predict functional outcomes, and test the effectiveness of therapeutic and rehabilitation programs not only in clinical settings, but also at the preclinical level. Considering the urgent need to develop potential stimulators of neuroregeneration, it seems relevant to obtain objective data when modeling neurological diseases in animals. Thus, in the context of the application of electrophysiological methods, not only the comparison of the basic characteristics of bioelectrical activity of the brain and spinal cord in humans and animals, but also their changes against the background of neurodegenerative and post-traumatic processes are of particular importance. In light of the above, this review will contribute to a better understanding of the results of electrophysiological assessment in neurodegenerative and post-traumatic processes as well as the possibility of translating these methods from model animals to humans.
Breast Cancer Drugs Screening Model Based on Graph Convolutional Network and Ensemble Method
Authors: Li Jia , Zhao Yun , Shi Guoxing , Tan Xuewen
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer is the first cancer incidence and the second cancer mortality in women. Therefore, for the life and health of breast cancer patients, the research and development of breast cancer drugs should be accelerated. In drug development, the search for compounds with good bioactivity, pharmacokinetics, and safety, including Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity (ADMET), has always been a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. In this paper, the relationship between the molecular descriptor and ADMET properties of compounds is studied. Aiming at the problem of composite ADMET attribute classification, a Stacking Algorithm based on Graph Convolutional Network (SA-GCN) was proposed. Firstly, feature selection was performed in the data of molecular descriptors. Then the SA-GCN is developed by integrating the advantages of ten classical classification algorithms. Finally, various performance indicators were used to conduct comparative experiments. Experiments show that the SA-GCN is superior to other classifiers in the classification performance of ADMET, and the classification accuracy is 97.6391%, 98.1450%, 94.4351%, 96.4587%, and 97.9764% compared to other classifiers. Therefore, this method can be well applied to the classification of ADMET properties of compounds and then could provide some help to screen out compounds with good biological activities.
Wafer Delay Minimization in Scheduling Single-Arm Cluster Tools with Two-Space Process Modules
Authors: Zou Chengyu , Zhang Siwei , Zeng Shan , Gu Lei , Li Jie
Published: June 2024

In semiconductor manufacturing, multi-space process modules (PMs) are adopted in some cluster tools for wafer processing. With multi-space PMs, a PM can have multiple wafers concurrently. Also, the internal chamber in a PM should rotate to make the robot able to load/unload a wafer into/from a space in the PM. This means that the wafer staying time in PMs is affected by both the rotation operations of the internal chambers of PMs and the robot tasks. Thus, minimizing the wafer delay time is quite challenging. In this work, for cluster tools with single-arm robots and two-space PMs, efforts are made for wafer delay minimization in scheduling the tools. Specifically, a two-wafer backward strategy is presented to operate the tools in a steady state. Then, the workloads of each processing step and the robot are analyzed. Further, to find optimal schedules with the objective of minimizing the total wafer delay time, efficient algorithms are established. Finally, case studies show that the wafer delay time at some steps can be totally eliminated by the proposed method. In the meantime, in all cases, the proposed method can work well in reducing the total wafer delay time at all steps.