bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation of Insulating Glass Units: Thermal Performance, Measurements and Energy Impacts
Authors: Likins-White Madison , Tenent Robert C. , Zhai Zhiqiang (John)
Published: February 2023

Insulating glass unit (IGU) degradation has been studied extensively. However, there is limited understanding of how present durability evaluation standards relate to product lifetime. Furthermore, there is debate on how to quantify performance of installed windows over time to better understand degradation processes. More knowledge on these topics is required to link durability evaluation to product lifetime projections based on energy performance. Energy models provide helpful estimations of total annual building energy consumption. However, most models are based on “as installed” performance of envelope components and fail to account for performance degradation. This can lead to an underestimation of building lifetime energy consumption. A better understanding of the relationship between durability and energy performance can inform integration of degradation dynamics into energy modeling software. This will improve lifetime building energy consumption estimations as well as inform appropriate retrofit strategies and timing. This paper reviews current durability literature, various standards for window performance ratings and weathering methods, existing in situ IGU energy performance measurement techniques, and whole-building energy effects. The challenges and disparities among various studies are analyzed and discussed. The authors hope that further work in this area will lead to the development of improved in situ test methods to assess IGU degradation in the field and link this knowledge to improved energy performance modeling approaches.
Molecular Heterogeneity in BRAF-Mutant Gliomas: Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Lhermitte Benoit , Wolf Thibaut , Chenard Marie Pierre , Coca Andres , Todeschi Julien , Proust François , Hirsch Edouard , Schott Roland , Noel Georges , Guerin Eric , Reita Damien , Chammas Agathe , Salmon Alexandra , Martin Sophie , Dontenwill Monique , Entz-Werlé Natacha
Published: February 2023

Over the last few decades, deciphering the alteration of molecular pathways in brain tumors has led to impressive changes in diagnostic refinement. Among the molecular abnormalities triggering and/or driving gliomas, alterations in the MAPK pathway reign supreme in the pediatric population, as it is encountered in almost all low-grade pediatric gliomas. Activating abnormalities in the MAPK pathway are also present in both pediatric and adult high-grade gliomas. Across those alterations, BRAF p.V600E mutations seem to define homogeneous groups of tumors in terms of prognosis. The recent development of small molecules inhibiting this pathway retains the attention of neurooncologists on BRAF-altered tumors, as conventional therapies showed no significant effect, nor prolonged efficiency on the high-grade or low-grade unresectable forms. Nevertheless, tumoral heterogeneity and especially molecular alteration(s) associated with MAPK-pathway abnormalities are not fully understood with respect to how they might lead to the specific dismal prognosis of those gliomas and/or affect their response to targeted therapies. This review is an attempt to provide comprehensive information regarding molecular alterations related to the aggressiveness modulation in BRAF-mutated gliomas and the current knowledge on how to use those targeted therapies in such situations.
Comparison of RNA Marker Panels for Circulating Tumor Cells and Evaluation of Their Prognostic Relevance in Breast Cancer
Authors: Welsch Eva , Schuster Eva , Krainer Michael , Marhold Maximilian , Bartsch Rupert , Fischer Michael B. , Hermann Michael , Hastermann Gabriele , Uher Heidemarie , Sliutz Gerhard , Anker Birgit , Zeillinger Robert , Obermayr Eva
Published: February 2023

Liquid biopsy is a promising tool for therapy monitoring of cancer patients, but a need for further research in this field exists in order to improve sensitivity, specificity, standardization and minimize costs. In our present study, we evaluated two panels of transcripts related with the presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) (Panel 1: CK19, EpCAM, SCGB2A2 and Panel 2: EMP2, SLC6A8, HJURP, MAL2, PPIC and CCNE2) in two cohorts of breast cancer patients (metastatic and early). A blood cell fraction possibly containing CTCs was isolated with density gradient centrifugation, followed by RNA isolation and qPCR using TaqMan® or RT-qPCR using hybridization probes. The positivity rates of the investigated panels were similar, albeit higher in metastatic (69.4% Panel 1, 75.0% Panel 2; total 86.1%) compared to early (18.9% Panel 1, 23.3% Panel 2; total 31.1%) breast cancer patients. CK19, SCGB2A2, EMP2, HJURP, MAL2, and CCNE2 individually correlated with shorter overall survival in the metastatic patient cohort. The findings highlight the additional value of Panel 2 markers, which are in contrast to CK19 and EpCAM not solely linked to an epithelial phenotype.
Centrosymmetric Nickel(II) Complexes Derived from Bis-(Dithiocarbamato)piperazine with 1,1′-Bis-(Diphenylphosphino)ferrocene and 1,2-Bis-(Diphenylphosphino)ethane as Ancillary Ligands: Syntheses, Crystal Structure and Computational Studies
Authors: Srivastava Devyani , Prakash Om , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Kumar Abhinav , Alarifi Abdullah , Abduh Naaser A. Y. , Afzal Mohd , Muddassir Mohd
Published: February 2023

Two Ni(II) complexes with the formula [{Ni(dppf)}2{(L1)2}](PF6)2 (Ni-I) and [{Ni(dppe)}2{(L1)2}](PF6)2 (Ni-II) were prepared by reacting [Ni(dppf)Cl2] and [Ni(dppe)Cl2] (dppf = 1,1′-Bis-(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene; dppe = 1,2-Bis-(diphenylphosphino)ethane) with secondary amine piperazine derived ligand disodium bis-(dithiocarbamate)piperazine ((piper(dtc)2 = L1) and counter anion PF6−. These complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, FT-IR, 1H, 13C and 31P NMR, UV-Vis. spectroscopy and single crystal X-ray diffraction. The X-ray analyses reveal centrosymmetric structures where each Ni(II) centre adopts distorted square planar geometry defined by two sulfur centres of dithiocarbamate ligand and two phosphorus centres of dppf and dppe ligands in Ni-I and Ni-II, respectively. The supramolecular framework of both Ni-I and Ni-II are sustained by C-H⋯π and C-H⋯F interactions, and they also display interesting intramolecular C-H⋯Ni anagostic interactions. Further, the nature of these interactions are studied using Hirshfeld surface analyses, DFT and quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) calculations. Additionally, non-covalent interaction (NCI) plot analyses were conducted to gain additional insight into these non-covalent interactions. This work is vital in a new approach towards the rational designing of the centrosymmetric molecules with interesting architectures.
Hepatic Encephalopathy Confirmed by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in a Patient with Unobvious Cause of Chronic Liver Disease Decompensation
Authors: Czempik Piotr F. , Pluta Michał P. , Hofman Mariusz , Liberski Piotr S. , Jaworski Tomasz , Szczepańska Anna , Bożek Oskar
Published: February 2023

Fifty-four-year old male was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) due to impaired consciousness. Past medical history included alcohol dependence, liver cirrhosis, esophageal varices, 2 esophageal varices banding procedures in the past, pathological obesity. Computed tomography (CT) examination of the head performed in the referring hospital was normal. At admission the CT examination of the head was repeated and showed no abnormalities. Urgent esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed presence of esophageal varices and scarification following previous banding procedures located in the middle and lower part of the esophagus. Gastrointestinal bleeding being the most likely cause of chronic liver decompensation was therefore excluded. Multimodal neurologic diagnostic assessment was negative. Finally magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head was performed. Taking into account clinical picture and the MRI result, the differential diagnosis included chronic liver encephalopathy, exacerbated acquired hepatocerebral degeneration, and acute liver encephalopathy. Due to history of umbilical hernia CT of the abdomen and pelvis was performed and showed intussusception of the ileum, confirming hepatic encephalopathy. In this case report the MRI suggested the diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy and prompted search for alternative causes of decompensation of chronic liver disease.
Prevalence of Schistosoma haematobium and Intestinal Helminth Infections among Nigerian School Children
Authors: Alade Tolulope , Ta-Tang Thuy-Huong , Nassar Sulaiman Adebayo , Akindele Akeem Abiodun , Capote-Morales Raquel , Omobami Tosin Blessing , Berzosa Pedro
Published: February 2023

Schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) are two parasitic diseases mainly affecting school children. The purpose of this study was to estimate the current prevalence and infection intensity, in addition to the associations of these infections with age and sex, in children aged 4–17 years living in Osun State, Nigeria. From each participant (250 children), one urine and one stool sample were taken for the study, for the microscopic detection of eggs or larvae in faeces by means of the Kato–Katz method and eggs in filtrated urine. The overall prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was 15.20%, with light infection. The intestinal helminthic species identified (and their prevalence) were S. stercoralis (10.80%), S. mansoni (8%), A. lumbricoides (7.20%), hookworm (1.20%), and T. trichiura (0.4%), all of them being classified as light infections. Single infections (67.95%) are more frequent than multiple infections (32.05%). With this study, schistosomiasis and STH are still endemic in Osun State, but with a light to moderate prevalence and light infection intensity. Urinary infection was the most prevalent, with higher prevalence in children over 10 years. The >10 years age group had the highest prevalence for all of the intestinal helminths. There were no statistically significant associations between gender and age and urogenital or intestinal parasites.
Enabling Virtual Learning for Biomechanics of Tooth Movement: A Modified Nominal Group Technique
Authors: Ridzuan Fakhitah , Rao Gururajaprasad Kaggal Lakshmana , Wahab Rohaya Megat Abdul , Dasor Maryati Md , Mokhtar Norehan
Published: February 2023

Virtual learning is a medium that can enhance students’ understanding of a specific topic. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic provided an opportunity for dental education to shift from traditional learning to blended learning as it began to utilize technology to help students study effectively. In this study, we collaborated with experts in the field of dentistry to reach a consensus about which topics are appropriate to include in the virtual learning module about the biomechanics of tooth movement. We convened a panel of five experts who had a minimum of two years of experience in teaching orthodontics and introduced them to the Nominal Group Technique (NGT), which is a well-established, organized, multistep, assisted group meeting technique for generating consensus. The following ten key topics were identified for inclusion in the module: physiology of tooth movement; tooth movement–definition, type, theory, indications; force systems; anchorage; fixed appliances; biomaterials related to tooth movement; removable appliances; factors affecting tooth movement; iatrogenic effect of tooth movement; and current advances and evidence regarding tooth movement. The modified NGT approach led to the development of a ranked thematic list of the topics related to the biomechanics of tooth movement that can be delivered to students via virtual learning.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Endodontic Sealers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Guo Jindong , Peters Ove A. , Hosseinpour Sepanta
Published: February 2023

Inflammation is a crucial step prior to healing, and the regulatory effects of endodontic materials on the immune response can influence tissue repair. This review aimed to answer whether endodontic sealers can modulate the immune cells and inflammation. An electronic search in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases were performed. This systematic review was mainly based on PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was evaluated by SYRCLEs and the Modified CONSORT checklist for in vivo and in vitro studies, respectively. In total, 28 articles: 22 in vitro studies, and six in vivo studies were included in this systematic review. AH Plus and AH 26 can down-regulate iNOS mRNA, while S-PRG sealers can down-regulate p65 of NF-κB pathways to inhibit the production of TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6. In vitro and in vivo studies suggested that various endodontic sealers exhibited immunomodulatory impact in macrophages polarization and inflammatory cytokine production, which could promote healing, tissue repair, and inhibit inflammation. Since the paradigm change from immune inert biomaterials to bioactive materials, endodontic materials, particularly sealers, are required to have modulatory effects in clinical conditions. New generations of endodontic sealers could hamper detrimental inflammatory responses and maintain periodontal tissue, which represent a breakthrough in biocompatibility and functionality of endodontic biomaterials.
A Physical Measure for Characterizing Crossover from Integrable to Chaotic Quantum Systems
Authors: Lyu Chenguang Y. , Wang Wen-Ge
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a quantity that describes a response of a system’s eigenstates to a very small perturbation of physical relevance is studied as a measure for characterizing crossover from integrable to chaotic quantum systems. It is computed from the distribution of very small, rescaled components of perturbed eigenfunctions on the unperturbed basis. Physically, it gives a relative measure to prohibition of level transitions induced by the perturbation. Making use of this measure, numerical simulations in the so-called Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick model show in a clear way that the whole integrability-chaos transition region is divided into three subregions: a nearly integrable regime, a nearly chaotic regime, and a crossover regime.
Linear Codes from Two Weakly Regular Plateaued Balanced Functions
Authors: Yang Shudi , Zhang Tonghui , Li Ping
Published: February 2023

Linear codes with a few weights have been extensively studied due to their wide applications in secret sharing schemes, strongly regular graphs, association schemes, and authentication codes. In this paper, we choose the defining sets from two distinct weakly regular plateaued balanced functions, based on a generic construction of linear codes. Then we construct a family of linear codes with at most five nonzero weights. Their minimality is also examined and the result shows that our codes are helpful in secret sharing schemes.
Analyzing Indonesian SOEs Privatization: A Comparison between the SOEs’ Performance and Privatization Determination
Authors: Rasyid Rafki , Karimi Syafruddin , Taifur Werry Darta , Ridwan Endrizal
Published: February 2023

This study investigates the privatization situation in Indonesia between 1996 and 2020. This study conducts a comparative analysis to see the impact of privatization on companies’ performance and, with regard to the crisis that occurred with respect to the companies that have been privatized, its economic impact. Furthermore, the determinants of the government’s decision to release its share from state-owned companies are also identified using the regression method. This study found, with regard to the state-owned enterprises in Indonesia, the impact of the economy as there were no differences in the companies’ performance before and during the crisis. This study found that the ability of the company to generate profits declined after privatization, but the company’s efficiency improved. Otherwise, the debt ratio of state-owned companies decreased after the privatization was carried out. Almost the same results were found when comparing the long-term performance with the short-term performance of the privatized SOEs. The determining factors that influenced the Indonesian government’s decision to divest its shares in state-owned companies were Indonesia’s corruption perception index ranking, the company’s ability to generate profits on its sales, and government ownership percentage stock in SOEs.
Self-Efficacy Beliefs as well as Perceived Advantages and Challenges of Interdisciplinary Science Teaching from a Longitudinal Perspective
Authors: Handtke Kevin , Bögeholz Susanne
Published: February 2023

The advantages and challenges of interdisciplinary science teaching and the respective qualification of teachers are an ongoing topic of discussion, especially in countries with no or only partly interdisciplinary science teaching in secondary education. For example, German secondary science teacher education is almost exclusively discipline-specific. Up to now, research does not focus on the effect of German teacher education qualifying for interdisciplinary science teaching in secondary education from a longitudinal perspective. Thus, we were interested in the influence of current German science teacher education over time: Do (prospective) teachers believe they are capable of interdisciplinary science teaching (i.e., self-efficacy beliefs)? How do their beliefs develop during teacher education? Which advantages and challenges do they perceive regarding interdisciplinary science teaching? Do their perceptions change over time? We surveyed 271 (prospective) biology, chemistry, and physics teachers in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Examining the absolute stability (i.e., the change in the mean) of the self-efficacy beliefs showed no significant changes. Analyzing the relative stability (i.e., the change in the rank order) of the self-efficacy beliefs showed middle and positive correlations between the measurements of neighboring time points. The prospective teachers agreed in majority (>50%) with nine out of seventeen advantages and seven out of seventeen challenges of interdisciplinary science teaching. Three advantages reached over 70% approval: Cross-linking content, Addressing key problems, and Promoting interest in science. Four challenges reached over 70% approval: Lack of teacher education, Out-of-field teaching, Lack of depth in content, and Low motivation of teachers due to low affinity to and education in the subject. Neither do the perceptions change strongly between the time points (absolute and relative stability) nor are they very stable. Moreover, it seems that the (prospective) teachers realize the complexity of interdisciplinary science teaching, e.g., regarding experimentation or missing material, with progressing teacher education. The results, rather including no positive effect of two years of teacher education on self-efficacy beliefs, reveal obstacles for teacher education as well as starting points to support (prospective) teachers regarding interdisciplinary science teaching.
Convenient Procedure for Measuring the Electrical Resistance of Fastening Systems in Urban Railway Tracks
Authors: Vranešić Katarina , Haladin Ivo , Lakušić Stjepan , Burnać Krešimir
Published: February 2023

Electrical resistance is among the characteristics that fastening systems must meet to ensure the proper functioning of signaling systems in railway infrastructure. The EN 13146-5:2012 standard specifies a laboratory testing method for determining the electrical resistance under wet conditions between running rails provided by a fastening system on steel or concrete sleepers. In urban railway tracks, the electrical resistance of fastening systems affects the stray current; however, there is no standardized electrical resistance measuring method. There is also no definition for the minimum value that the electrical resistance of fastening systems must satisfy to prevent stray currents. For this reason, this paper analysis the possibility of using the standard EN 13146-5:2012 for the measurement and analysis of the electrical resistance of fastening systems in urban railway tracks. In this study, the electrical resistance of different fastening systems used in urban railway tracks was measured. Based on the tests results, the modifications needed in the EN 13146-5 standard for it to be suitable for urban railway tracks were identified. The proposed modifications include the use of a DC current source. The test should be performed on a rail sample fastened to the concrete base, and the current circuit should be closed by the reference electrode installed in the base. Spraying water from nozzles is not applicable for this measurement. The test should be performed under dry conditions and at different water levels (water on the top of the concrete base and on the top of the levelling layer). Different water levels were used to simulate the most common conditions in urban railway tracks built as part of the road surface, where the track-drying process is very slow. The test should not be performed when the rails are immersed in water, because the current flows directly from the rail into the water in such case, and the fastening system has no influence on the measured electrical resistance value. In addition to describing the proposed changes, the calculation of the minimum electrical resistance value that fastening systems in urban railway tracks must satisfy is also presented.
Evidence for 40 Years of Treeline Shift in a Central Alpine Valley
Authors: Frei Esther R. , Barbeito Ignacio , Erdle Lisa M. , Leibold Elisabeth , Bebi Peter
Published: February 2023

Alpine treeline ecosystems are generally expected to advance with increasing temperatures and after land-use abandonment. Multiple interacting factors modify this trend. Understanding the long-term processes underlying treeline advance is essential to predict future changes in structure and function of mountain ecosystems. In a valley in the Central Swiss Alps, we re-assessed a 40-year-old survey of all treeline trees (>0.5 m height) and disentangled climate, topographical, biotic, and disturbance (land use and avalanche risk) factors that have led to treeline advance with a combination of ground-based mapping, decision tree, and dendroecological analyses. Between the first ground survey in 1972/73 and the resurvey in 2012, treeline advanced on average by 10 meters per decade with a maximum local advance of 42 meters per decade. Larch consistently advanced more on south-facing slopes, while pine advance was greater on north-facing slopes. Newly established spruce mostly represented infilling below the previous treeline. The forefront of treeline advance above 2330 m a.s.l. occurred mainly on favorable microsites without competing dwarf shrub vegetation. At slightly lower elevations, treeline advanced mainly on sites that were used for agriculture at the beginning of the 20th century. This study indicates that although treeline advances under the effect of climate warming, a combination of additional ecological factors controls this advance at regional and local scales.
Design of Decorative Wooden Wall Panels from Sliced Pedunculate Slavonian Oak (Quercus robur L.) from Veneer Production Residue
Authors: Mamić Domagoj , Domljan Danijela
Published: February 2023

The growing awareness of nature conservation encourages producers, engineers, and designers to contribute to the rational and innovative use of raw materials. Sustainable development is imperative, symbolizing the balance between meeting the needs of the present generations without compromising the needs of future ones. The aim of this paper is to investigate the production process of cut veneer of Pedunculate Slavonian oak (Quercus robur L.) and which parts of the logs are lost or thrown in the production of cut veneer, to analyze the increase in the use of veneers that currently represent residue in processing, and to propose directions of designing a new product from the analyzed residue—decorative wall panels. The research was conducted in the company Spačva Ltd. in Vinkovci, Vukovar-Srijem County, Croatia, in 2021/2022. The findings emphasize that the vast majority of unused veneers, considered technologically unacceptable in the production process, can be decoratively and visually desirable due to their natural appearance in the design of a new product. By analyzing and applying the design principles and elements, natural phenomena were applied to the veneers that represent the basic motif of the new decorative wall panels. The initial solutions of the decorative wall coverings made of veneer with a natural appearance and the solution from other wood residues from production are shown. The results of this study have potentially far-reaching implications for wood product manufacturers and demonstrate the importance of applying design in wood technology to reduce residue, demonstrating that residue from standard production can be designed into an innovative, sustainable product that reduces environmental damage.
Effects of Air Pollution on the Health of Older Adults during Physical Activities: Mapping Review
Authors: Andrade Alexandro , D’Oliveira Anderson , De Souza Loiane Cristina , Bastos Ana Cecilia Rosatelli de Freitas , Dominski Fábio Hech , Stabile Luca , Buonanno Giorgio
Published: February 2023

Atmospheric pollutants present environmental threats to health and have been investigated in different environments, such as highways, squares, parks, and gyms. These environments are frequented by older adults, who are considered fragile to the harmful impacts of pollution present in the air. The aim was to analyze the state of the art on the effects of air pollution on the health of older adults during physical activities (PAs) through a mapping review. The search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cinahl databases until June 2022. Of the 10,109 studies initially identified, 58 met the inclusion criteria. The most investigated health outcome was cardiovascular disease, followed by respiratory outcomes. Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) were the most investigated pollutants. Of the 75 health outcomes investigated, in 29, air pollution had harmful effects on the health of the older adults during the practice of PA, more frequently in cardiovascular diseases. In 25 outcomes, the beneficial effects of PA to the health of the older adults remained, despite exposure to high and low concentrations of pollutants, most often in terms of mental disorders. We conclude that poor air quality is a harmful factor for the health of older adults during the practice of PAs, more frequently in cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. On the other hand, for mental-health-related outcomes (depression and cognition), in most studies, the beneficial effects of PA in older adults were maintained, even after exposure to pollutants.
Beneficial and Impeding Factors for the Implementation of Health-Promoting Lifestyle Interventions—A Gender-Specific Focus Group Study
Authors: Wittmann Felix G. , Zülke Andrea , Schultz Adrian , Claus Mandy , Röhr Susanne , Luppa Melanie , Riedel-Heller Steffi G.
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: The prevalence of dementia increases and so does the number of interventions that address modifiable risk factors for dementia. Recent evidence suggests that there are gender differences in the prevalence of those lifestyle factors as well as in the effectiveness of interventions. This study aims to identify differences in factors that benefit or hinder the effectiveness of interventions since a target group’s perspective gets more relevant. (2) Methods: Two focus groups, a female (n = 11) and a male (n = 8) group, were interviewed, audio recorded and transcribed. Qualitative analyses were performed and main- and subcategories were identified. (3) Results: Main differences were observed including aspects of lifestyle changes (e.g., respective diet and importance of an active lifestyle) and gender-typical behavior and perception by relevant healthcare actors. (4) Conclusions: Identified differences might help to address and raise the efficiency of lifestyle interventions. Further, the importance of social aspects and retirement as an auspicious moment to start interventions were identified as relevant by study participants.
Tobacco Smoke Exposure According to Location of Home Smoking in Israel: Findings from the Project Zero Exposure Study
Authors: Rosen Laura J. , Zucker David M. , Gravely Shannon , Bitan Michal , Rule Ana M. , Myers Vicki
Published: February 2023

Young children are particularly vulnerable to harms from tobacco smoke exposure (TSE). This study aimed to compare TSE: (1) between children who live in smoking families and those who do not; and (2) among children who live in smoking households with varying smoking locations. The data came from two studies that were conducted concurrently in Israel (2016–2018). Study 1: a randomized controlled trial of smoking families (n = 159); Study 2: a cohort study of TSE among children in non-smoking families (n = 20). Hair samples were collected from one child in each household. Baseline hair nicotine data were analyzed for 141 children in Study 1 and 17 children in Study 2. Using a logistic regression analysis (exposed vs. not exposed as per laboratory determination) and a linear regression (log hair nicotine), we compared TSE between: (1) children in Study 1 vs. Study 2; (2) children in families with different smoking locations in Study 1: balcony; garden, yard, or other place outside of the home; or inside the home (designated smoking areas within the home (DSAs) or anywhere). A higher proportion of children living in smoking households were measurably exposed to tobacco smoke (68.8%) compared to children living in non-smoking households (35.3%, p = 0.006). Among children from smoking families, 75.0% of those whose parents smoked in the house were exposed, while 61.8% of children whose parents restricted smoking to the porch (n = 55) were exposed, and 71.4% of those whose parents smoked outside the home (including gardens and yards) (n = 42) were exposed. In univariable and multivariable models, smoking location was not significantly associated with exposure. The majority of children in smoking families were measurably exposed to TSE, even if smoking was restricted to designated areas in the home, balconies, orgarden/yard/other outdoor areas. Reducing population smoking rates, particularly among parents, restricting smoking to at least 10 meters from homes and children, and denormalizing smoking around others are recommended to reduce population-level child TSE and tobacco-attributable disease and death.
Prioritizing Neighbourhood Amenities to Enhance Neighbourhood Satisfaction: A Case Study in Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zheng Zhenhua , Kang Dezhi , Zhou Ying , Zhang Yifeng , Zhang Xu
Published: February 2023

In China, the improvement in amenities has been often criticized for not addressing the priorities of residents’ demand due to over-standardised, top–down practices and the misallocation of resources. Previous studies have investigated how people’s wellbeing or quality of life is associated with neighbourhood attributes. However, very few have researched how identifying and prioritizing the improvement in neighbourhood amenities could significantly enhance neighbourhood satisfaction. Therefore, this paper investigated the residents’ perception on the neighbourhood amenities in Wuhan, China, and explored the application of the Kano–IPA model for prioritizing the improvement in amenities in both commodity-housing and traditional danwei neighbourhoods. Firstly, total 5100 valid questionnaires were distributed through street face-to-face surveying to solicit the residents’ perceptions of the usage and satisfaction of amenities in different neighbourhoods. Then, various statistical techniques, including descriptive, logistical regression modelling were adopted to analyse the general characteristics and significant associations of amenities’ usage and demand. Lastly, an age-friendly strategy for the improvement in amenities in old neighbourhoods was proposed by referring to the widely applied Kano–IPA marketing model. The results showed that there is no significant difference in the usage frequency of amenities among different neighbourhoods. However, significant differences of associations between residents’ perception on amenities and neighbourhood satisfaction were identified among different groups of residents. To demonstrate prioritizing neighbourhood amenities in double-aging neighbourhoods, basic, excitement, and performance factors fitting age-friendly scenarios were determined and categorized. This research can provide a reference for allocating financial budgets and determining schedules to improve neighbourhood amenities. It also showcased the variances of residents’ demands and the provision of public goods among different neighbourhoods in urban China. Similar studies can be expected in addressing different scenarios that challenges emerged, such as suburban or resettled neighbourhoods where low-income residents generally live.
Noise Emission Models of Electric Vehicles Considering Speed, Acceleration, and Motion State
Authors: Lan Ziqin , Yuan Minmin , Shao Shegang , Li Feng
Published: February 2023

Electric vehicles, known for their low-noise emission, are popular and widespread in metropolises in China, and they provide an opportunity for a reduction in environmental noise from vehicles. To understand the noise from electric vehicles better, this study develops noise emission models considering speed, acceleration, and motion state. The model construction is based on the data collected from a pass-by noise measurement experiment in Guangzhou, China. The models describe a linear relationship between the noise level, the logarithm of speed, and the acceleration for multiple motion states (i.e., the constant-speed state, the acceleration state, and the deceleration state). From the spectrum analysis, the low-frequency noise is barely affected by the speed and acceleration, but the noise at a certain frequency is most sensitive to them. Compared to other models, the proposed ones have the highest accuracy and the greatest ability for extrapolation and generalization.
Eight Weeks of High-Intensity Interval Training Using Elevation Mask May Improve Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Pulmonary Functions, and Hematological Variables in University Athletes
Authors: Abouzeid Nasser , ELnaggar Mahmoud , FathAllah Haytham , Amira Mostafa
Published: February 2023

Background: In the last two decades, high-altitude training (HAT) and elevation training masks (ETMs) have been widely used among athletes to enhance physical performance. However, few studies have examined the effect of wearing ETMs on physiological and hematological parameters in different sports. Aims: The present study aimed to investigate the impact of ETM use in athletes on several hematological and physiological indicators among cyclists, runners, and swimmers. Methods: The impact of wearing an ETM on lung function (LF), aerobic capacity (AC), and hematological levels in male university-level athletes (cyclists, runners, and swimmers) was investigated using an experimental approach. The participants (N = 44) were divided into (i) an experimental group wearing ETMs (n = 22; aged 21.24 ± 0.14 years old) and (ii) a control group not wearing ETMs (n = 22; aged 21.35 ± 0.19 years old). Both groups underwent 8 weeks of high-intensity cycle ergometer interval training. Pre- and post-training tests included the above-mentioned physiological and hematological parameters. Results: Except for FEV₁, FEV₁/FVC, VT1, and MHR in the control group and FEV₁/FVC and HRM in the experimental group, all variables were significantly improved after the 8-week cycle ergometer HIIT program. Significant benefits in favor of the experimental group were noted in terms of changes in FVC, FEV₁, VO₂max, VT1, PO to VT, VT2, and PO to VT2. Conclusions: The eight-week ETM-assisted HIIT program improved cardiorespiratory fitness and hematological variables in all participants. Future research would be useful to further investigate the physiological changes resulting from ETM-assisted HIIT programs.
Uplifted by Dancing Community: From Physical Activity to Well-Being
Authors: Zygmont Agnieszka , Doliński Wojciech , Zawadzka Dominika , Pezdek Krzysztof
Published: February 2023

The aim of the article is to present the dancing experience of older adult women who increase their well-being through dancing. That aim was realized through conducting qualitative research in accordance with COREQ among the members of a dance group “Gracje” from Wrocław. In the article, we show that senior women dance as a form of physical activity in the pursuit of health, enabling them to maintain the level of physical ability that allows them to fully enjoy different aspects of life. Thus, health is not only attempting to avoid illnesses, but, first of all, experiencing well-being, i.e., satisfaction with life in its physical, mental (cognitive) and social aspects. That satisfaction touches, in particular, such spheres as acceptance of an aging body, a need for personal growth and entering into new social relationships. Increasing that sense of satisfaction and agency (subjectivity) in each of those spheres as a consequence of organized dancing activity should be treated as one of the most important factors responsible for improving the quality of life of older adult women.
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life throughout Treatment with Clear Aligners in Comparison to Conventional Metal Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kaklamanos Eleftherios G. , Makrygiannakis Miltiadis A. , Athanasiou Athanasios E.
Published: February 2023

Background: Orthodontic clear aligners constitute an alternative and increasingly used orthodontic treatment modality, offering enhanced esthetics with potential consequences regarding patients’ oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Objective: Summarize and systematically evaluate existing evidence on the OHRQoL of patients treated with orthodontic clear aligners compared to treatment with conventional metal, fixed appliances. Search methods: We searched without limitations six databases and searched manually the reference lists of relevant studies up to the end of October 2022. Selection criteria: We looked for data from prospective studies that compared OHRQoL, using instruments that had undergone full psychometric validation, between orthodontic patients with clear aligners and labial, fixed, metal orthodontic appliances. Data collection and analysis: We extracted the data from the located studies, and we assessed the risk of bias with the Cochrane Collaboration suggested tools. The quality of available evidence was based on the GRADE approach. Results: Three studies were identified. OHRQoL was impacted less by clear aligners compared to treatment with conventional labially placed, fixed, metal appliances. The exploratory meta-regression, with the time point of assessment as predictor, did not reveal any statistically significant effect. The quality of the available evidence ranged from very low to low. Conclusions: According to the exploratory synthesis of the limited available dataset, treatment with clear aligners could be associated with better OHRQoL ratings compared to treatment with conventional labially placed, metal, fixed appliances. However, the quality of the presented evidence renders further high-quality studies warranted to be able to reach safer conclusions.
Association of Dual Sensory Impairment with Declining Physical Function in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Kong Hyun Ho , Shin Kwangsoo , Won Chang Won
Published: February 2023

Few studies have investigated whether dual sensory impairment (DSI) adversely affects the deterioration of physical function in older adults compared to single sensory impairment (SSI, visual or auditory). We studied the association between DSI and declining physical function by analyzing the data of 2780 Korean community-dwelling adults aged 70–84 years. Sensory impairment was assessed through pure tone audiometry and visual acuity testing. Muscle strength (handgrip strength) and physical performance (timed up and go test and short physical performance battery (SPPB)) were evaluated. In the cross-sectional analysis, DSI was associated with higher odds of having low muscle strength (odds ratio (OR), 1.78; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.27–2.48) and poor physical performance (SPPB: OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.38–3.00) than SSI. Among all sensory impairment groups in the longitudinal analysis, DSI at baseline increased the risk of deteriorating physical performance during the follow-up period (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.31–2.88; p < 0.01) the most. DSI showed a more severe adverse effect on the decline in physical function among community-dwelling older adults than SSI. More comprehensive care is needed to prevent the deterioration of physical function in older adults due to DSI.
Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices about Pharmacovigilance among Community Pharmacists in Qassim, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdulsalim Suhaj , Farooqui Maryam , Alshammari Mohammed Salem , Alotaibi Meshal , Alhazmi Abdulfattah , Alqasomi Abdulmajeed , Altowayan Waleed Mohammad
Published: February 2023

Background: Pharmacovigilance (PV) is an essential activity to detect adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and ensure patient safety. Hence, we aimed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding PV among community pharmacists in Qassim, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted by using a validated questionnaire after obtaining ethical approval from the Deanship of Scientific Research, Qassim University. The sample size was calculated based on the total number of pharmacists in the Qassim area by using Raosoft, Inc. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20 was used for data entry and analysis. Ordinal logistic regression was performed to identify the predictors of KAP. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 209 community pharmacists participated in the study; 62.9% of them defined the PV correctly, and 59% of them defined ADRs correctly. However, only 17.2% knew where to report ADRs. Interestingly, the majority of participants (92.9%) reported that it is necessary to report ADRs, and 73.8% of them were willing to report ADRs. A total of 53.8% of the participants identified ADRs during their careers; however, only 21.9% reported ADRs. Barriers discourage ADR reporting; the majority of the participants (85.6%) do not know how to report ADRs. Conclusion: Community pharmacists who participated in the study were knowledgeable about PV, and their attitude towards reporting ADRs was highly positive. However, the number of reported ADRs was low because of the lack of knowledge on how and where to report ADRs. Continuous education and motivation about ADRs reporting and PV are warranted among community pharmacists for the rational use of medications.
Antero-Posterior Mandibular Excursion in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients Treated with Mandibular Advancement Device: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Stipa Chiara , Incerti-Parenti Serena , Cameli Matteo , Ippolito Daniela Rita , Gracco Antonio , Alessandri-Bonetti Giulio
Published: February 2023

Since obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) management with a mandibular advancement device (MAD) is likely to be life-long, potential changes in mandibular movements during therapy should be investigated. The purpose of this study was to use a method that has already been shown to be reliable in order to determine whether the range of antero-posterior mandibular excursion, the procedure upon which MAD titration is based, varies between baseline (T0) and at least 1 year of treatment (T1). The distance between maximal voluntary protrusion and maximal voluntary retrusion determined using the millimetric scale of the George Gauge was retrospectively collected from the medical records of 59 OSA patients treated with the MAD and compared between T0 and T1. A regression analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of treatment time, MAD therapeutic advancement and the patient’s initial characteristics in excursion range variation. A statistically significant increase of 0.80 ± 1.52 mm (mean ± standard deviation, p < 0.001) was found for antero-posterior mandibular excursion. The longer the treatment time (p = 0.044) and the smaller the patient’s mandibular excursion at T0 (p = 0.002), the greater the increase was. These findings could be explained by a muscle–tendon unit adaptation to the forward mandibular repositioning induced by the MAD. During MAD therapy, patients can develop a wider range of antero-posterior mandibular excursion, especially those with a smaller initial excursion capacity.
Mississippi Small Farm Product Amounts, Seasonality, and Proximity to K-12 Public Schools
Authors: Thomson Jessica L. , Landry Alicia S. , Walls Tameka I. , McMillen Randall
Published: February 2023

The study’s purpose was to determine small farm product amounts and seasonality and examine spatial relationships between small farms and K-12 public schools in Mississippi. Online survey participation invitations were sent via email to farmers and school food service directors from October 2021 to January 2022. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics and proximities between farms (n = 29) and schools (n = 122) determined using spatial analysis. Median yearly amounts for both fresh fruits and vegetables ranged from 1–50 to 201–500 pounds while other product amounts ranged from 1–50 to >1000 pounds. Fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and other product seasonality ranged from 1 to 6 months, 1 to 12 months, and 3 to 12 months, respectively. In total, 8 out of 12 fresh fruits, 24 out of 25 fresh vegetables, and all other products were harvested during the academic school year. Fifty percent of the schools were within a 20-mile radius of at least one small farm, while 98% were within a 50-mile radius. While many product amounts were small (1–50 pounds), most were harvested during the school year and in close proximity to at least one school. Contracting directly with farmers may be more attractive to school food authorities given current supply chain disruptions and decreasing product availability for school meal programs.
Dialogue between VE-Cadherin and Sphingosine 1 Phosphate Receptor1 (S1PR1) for Protecting Endothelial Functions
Authors: Garnier Olivia , Vilgrain Isabelle
Published: February 2023

The endothelial cells (EC) of established blood vessels in adults remain extraordinarily quiescent in the sense that they are not actively proliferating, but they fulfill the necessary role to control the permeability of their monolayer that lines the interior of blood vessels. The cell–cell junctions between ECs in the endothelium comprise tight junctions and adherens homotypic junctions, which are ubiquitous along the vascular tree. Adherens junctions are adhesive intercellular contacts that are crucial for the organization of the EC monolayer and its maintenance and regulation of normal microvascular function. The molecular components and underlying signaling pathways that control the association of adherens junctions have been described in the last few years. In contrast, the role that dysfunction of these adherens junctions has in contributing to human vascular disease remains an important open issue. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid mediator found at high concentrations in blood which has important roles in the control of the vascular permeability, cell recruitment, and clotting that follow inflammatory processes. This role of S1P is achieved through a signaling pathway mediated through a family of G protein-coupled receptors designated as S1PR1. This review highlights novel evidence for a direct linkage between S1PR1 signaling and the mediation of EC cohesive properties that are controlled by VE-cadherin.