bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vision, Enabling Technologies, and Scenarios for a 6G-Enabled Internet of Verticals (6G-IoV)
Authors: Nekovee Maziar , Ayaz Ferheen
Published: January 2023

5G is the critical mobile infrastructure required to both enable and accelerate the full digital transformation of vertical sectors. While the 5G for vertical sectors is aiming at connectivity requirements of specific verticals, such as manufacturing, automotive and energy, we envisage that in the longer term the expansion of wide area cellular connectivity to these sectors will pave the way for a transformation to a new Internet of Verticals (IoV) in the 6G era, which we call 6G-IoV. In this paper, we describe our vision of 6G-IoV and examine its emerging and future architectural and networking enablers. We then illustrate our vision by describing a number of future scenarios of the 6G-IoV, namely the Internet of Cloud Manufacturing accounting for around 25% of digital services and products, the Internet of Robotics to cater the challenges of the growing number of robotics and expected 7% increase in usage over the coming years and the Internet of Smart Energy Grids for net-zero energy balance and shifting to 100% dependence on the renewables of energy generation.
Natural and Sustainable? Consumers’ Textile Fiber Preferences
Authors: Sigaard Anna Schytte , Laitala Kirsi
Published: January 2023

Textile fibers have become a major issue in the debate on sustainable fashion and clothing consumption. While consumers are encouraged to choose more sustainable and circular textile materials, studies have indicated that a reduction in production and consumption has the greatest potential to reduce the total environmental impact. This can be considered an ecocentric perspective with a focus on degrowth as opposed to a technocentric view where new technologies are expected to solve environmental problems while economic growth continues. Based on a survey in Norway (N = 1284), we investigate how the techno- and ecocentric perspectives impact Norwegian consumers’ fiber preferences and perceptions and the corresponding effects on their clothing consumption. We found that the majority of consumers preferred natural fibers compared to synthetic materials. This contradicts current market practices and the recommendations by material sustainability comparison tools such as the Higg Material Sustainability Index (MSI), where many synthetics receive better ratings than natural fibers. We also found that perceptions of high sustainability regarding fibers were negatively correlated with reduced consumption. Our study suggests that a continued focus on material substitution and other technological measures for reducing climate change will impede the move toward sustainability in the textile sector.
Effects of the Aging Period and Method on the Physicochemical, Microbiological and Rheological Characteristics of Two Cuts of Charolais Beef
Authors: Di Paolo Marika , Ambrosio Rosa Luisa , Lambiase Claudia , Vuoso Valeria , Salzano Angela , Bifulco Giovanna , Barone Carmela Maria Assunta , Marrone Raffaele
Published: January 2023

Wet-aging (WA) and dry-aging (DA) methods are usually used in the beef industry to satisfy the consumers’ tastes; however, these methods are not suitable for all anatomical cuts. In this study, WA and DA were applied to improve the quality of two cuts of Charolais beef (Longissimus dorsi and Semitendinosus). For 60 days (i.e., 2 days, 15 days, 30 days and 60 days of sampling), a physicochemical, rheological, and microbiological analysis were performed at WA (vacuum packed; temperature of 4 ± 1 °C) and at DA (air velocity of 0.5 m/s; temperature of 1 ± 1 °C; relative humidity of 78 ± 10%) conditions. The results showed that the aging method influenced the aging loss (higher in the DA), cooking loss (higher in the WA), malondialdehyde concentration (higher in the DA) and fatty acid profile (few changes). No differences in the drip loss and color were observed, which decreased after 30 days of aging. The WBSF and TPA test values changed with increasing an aging time showing that the aging improved the tenderness of meat regardless of the aging method. Moreover, the aging method does not influence the microbiological profile. In conclusion, both WA and DA enhanced the quality of the different beef cuts, suggesting that an optimal method-time and aging combination could be pursued to reach the consumers’ preferences.
Nutritional, Physicochemical, Microstructural, Rheological, and Organoleptical Characteristics of Ice Cream Incorporating Adansonia digitata Pulp Flour
Authors: Sakr Sally S. , Mohamed Sahar H. S. , Ali Asmahan A. , Ahmed Waheeba E. , Algheshairy Reham M. , Almujaydil Mona S. , Al-Hassan Ahmed A. , Barakat Hassan , Hassan Mohamed F. Y.
Published: January 2023

Ice cream’s appeal is unrivaled. Nonmilk and milk ingredients in ice cream formulas affect their nutritional value, structure, and organoleptical qualities. Seeking novel dietary ingredients instead of artificial flavoring compounds is vital for improving ice cream taste preference, adding antioxidants, and increasing nutritional value. The current study examines the feasibility of manufacturing a new flavored ice cream with excellent dietary value using Adansonia digitata L. (Baobab) fruit pulp (ADFP). The prepared ice cream’s physicochemical and microbiological quality, and rheological, microstructural, and organoleptic properties were investigated. Using ADFP instead of skim milk powder with a partial or complete replacement, five ice cream samples were produced and marked as IB-0, IB-25, IB-50, IB-75, and IB-100. Chemical characteristics were not noticeably impacted except protein and ash, which considerably decreased with increasing ADFP levels. Increasing ADFP in the samples increased titratable acidity and reduced pH. All ice cream samples were microbiologically acceptable with no pathogenic bacteria. By increasing ADFP in the samples, the daily values (%DV) of sodium, potassium, and magnesium were not considerably affected. Calcium reduced from 14.91% in IB-0 to 7.75% in IB-100. All microelements found in the study rose considerably as ADFP increased. Increasing ADFP levels significantly boosted antioxidant levels. The IB-100 sample had the highest total phenolic content (149.29 mg GAE 100 g−1), antioxidant activity (98.12 µmol of TE 100 g−1), total flavonoids (5.96 mg QE 100 g−1), and total flavanols (4.01 mg QE 100 g−1). The inclusion of ADFP had a beneficial effect on the color of the samples. It did not negatively affect the ice cream’s organoleptic acceptability as determined by organoleptic, rheological, and microstructural examinations. Interestingly, when skim milk powder was replaced with 50% and 75%, the hardness, viscosity, and aqueous phase separation were significantly improved. In conclusion, ADPF improves the nutritional value of ice cream and can be used as a natural coloring ingredient without affecting microstructural and rheological properties.
Detection Method for Tomato Leaf Mildew Based on Hyperspectral Fusion Terahertz Technology
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Wang Yafei , Zhou Zhankun , Zhang Yixue , Wang Xinzhong
Published: January 2023

Leaf mildew is a common disease of tomato leaves. Its detection is an important means to reduce yield loss from the disease and improve tomato quality. In this study, a new method was developed for the multi-source detection of tomato leaf mildew by THz hyperspectral imaging through combining internal and external leaf features. First, multi-source information obtained from tomato leaves of different disease grades was extracted by near-infrared hyperspectral imaging and THz time-domain spectroscopy, while the influence of low-frequency noise was removed by the Savitzky Golay (SG) smoothing algorithm. A genetic algorithm (GA) was used to optimize the selection of the characteristic near-infrared hyperspectral band. Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to optimize the THz characteristic absorption spectra and power spectrum dimensions. Recognition models were developed for different grades of tomato leaf mildew infestation by incorporating near-infrared hyperspectral imaging, THz absorbance, and power spectra using the backpropagation neural network (BPNN), and the models had recognition rates of 95%, 96.67%, and 95%, respectively. Based on the near-infrared hyperspectral features, THz time-domain spectrum features, and classification model, the probability density of the posterior distribution of tomato leaf health parameter variables was recalculated by a Bayesian network model. Finally, a fusion diagnosis and health evaluation model of tomato leaf mildew with hyperspectral fusion THz was established, and the recognition rate of tomato leaf mildew samples reached 97.12%, which improved the recognition accuracy by 0.45% when compared with the single detection method, thereby achieving the accurate detection of facility diseases.
Oligo (Poly (Ethylene Glycol) Fumarate)-Based Multicomponent Cryogels for Neural Tissue Replacement
Authors: Zoughaib Mohamed , Dayob Kenana , Avdokushina Svetlana , Kamalov Marat I. , Salakhieva Diana V. , Savina Irina N. , Lavrov Igor A. , Abdullin Timur I.
Published: January 2023

Synthetic hydrogels provide a promising platform to produce neural tissue analogs with improved control over structural, physical, and chemical properties. In this study, oligo (poly (ethylene glycol) fumarate) (OPF)-based macroporous cryogels were developed as a potential next-generation alternative to a non-porous OPF hydrogel previously proposed as an advanced biodegradable scaffold for spinal cord repair. A series of OPF cryogel conduits in combination with PEG diacrylate and 2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl-trimethylammonium chloride (MAETAC) cationic monomers were synthesized and characterized. The contribution of each component to viscoelastic and hydration behaviors and porous structure was identified, and concentration relationships for these properties were revealed. The rheological properties of the materials corresponded to those of neural tissues and scaffolds, according to the reviewed data. A comparative assessment of adhesion, migration, and proliferation of neuronal cells in multicomponent cryogels was carried out to optimize cell-supporting characteristics. The results show that OPF-based cryogels can be used as a tunable synthetic scaffold for neural tissue repair with advantages over their hydrogel counterparts.
Comparative and Functional Analysis of miRNAs and mRNAs Involved in Muscle Fiber Hypertrophy of Juvenile and Adult Goats
Authors: Zhang Sanbao , Zhang Qiongwen , Yang Lili , Gao Xiaotong , Chen Ting , Li Tianbao , Sun Wenyue , Liu Yufan , Zheng Zihua , Pan Yan , Wei Yingming , Huang Yanna , Jiang Mingsheng , Jiang Qinyang
Published: January 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that post-transcriptionally regulate several pathway intermediates and affect the skeletal muscle development in mice, pigs, sheep, and cattle. However, to date, only a small number of miRNAs have been reported in the muscle development of goats. In this report, the longissimus dorsi transcripts of one- and ten-month-old goats were analyzed by sequencing RNAs and miRNAs. The results showed that the ten-month-old Longlin goats had 327 up- and 419 down-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared with the one-month-old. In addition, 20 co-up-regulated and 55 co-down-regulated miRNAs involved in the muscle fiber hypertrophy of goats were identified in ten-month-old Longlin and Nubian goats compared with one-month-old. Five miRNA–mRNA pairs (chi-let-7b-3p-MIRLET7A, chi-miR193b-3p-MMP14, chi-miR-355-5p-DGAT2, novel_128-LOC102178119, novel_140-SOD3) involved in the goat skeletal muscle development were identified by miRNA–mRNA negative correlation network analysis. Our results provided new insight into the functional roles of goat muscle-associated miRNAs, allowing a deeper understanding of the transformation of miRNA roles during mammalian muscle development.
Agreement between Family Members and the Physician’s View in the ICU Environment: Personal Experience as a Factor Influencing Attitudes towards Corresponding Hypothetical Situations
Authors: Stamou Paraskevi , Tsartsalis Dimitrios , Papathanakos Georgios , Dragioti Elena , Gouva Mary , Koulouras Vasilios
Published: January 2023

Background: It is not known whether intensive care unit (ICU) patients’ family members realistically assess patients’ health status. Objectives: The aim was to investigate the agreement between family and intensivists’ assessment concerning changes in patient health, focusing on family members’ resilience and their perceptions of decision making. Methods: For each ICU patient, withdrawal criteria were assessed by intensivists while family members assessed the patient’s health development and completed the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale and the Self-Compassion Scale. Six months after ICU discharge, follow-up contact was established, and family members gave their responses to two hypothetical scenarios. Results: 162 ICU patients and 189 family members were recruited. Intensivists’ decisions about whether a patient met the withdrawal criteria had 75,9% accuracy for prediction of survival. Families’ assessments were statistically independent of intensivists’ opinions, and resilience had a significant positive effect on the probability of agreement with intensivists. Six months after discharge, family members whose relatives were still alive were significantly more likely to consider that the family or patient themselves should be involved in decision-making. Conclusions: Resilience is related to an enhanced probability of agreement of the family with intensivists’ perceptions of patients’ health progression. Family attitudes in hypothetical scenarios were found to be significantly affected by the patient’s actual health progression.
Consequences of the Early Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Home-Healthcare Recipients in Norway: A Nursing Perspective
Authors: Melby Line , Lyngstad Merete , Ose Solveig Osborg
Published: January 2023

Municipal home-healthcare services are becoming increasingly important as growing numbers of people are receiving healthcare services in their home. The COVID-19 pandemic represented a challenge for this group, both in terms of care providers being restricted in performing their duties and care receivers declining services for fear of being infected. Furthermore, preparedness plans were not always in place. The purpose of this study is to investigate the consequences for recipients of home healthcare in Norway of the actual level of COVID-19 infection spread in the local population, as observed by licensed nurses working in home-healthcare services. Approximately 2100 nurses answered the survey. The most common adverse consequences for home-healthcare recipients were increased isolation and loneliness, increased health concerns, and the loss of respite care services. An increased burden for relatives/next of kin and fewer physical meetings with service providers were frequently observed and reported as well. This study shows that there were more adverse consequences for service users in municipalities with higher levels of contagion than in those with lower levels of contagion. This indicates that the municipalities adapted measures to the local rate of contagion, in line with local municipal preparedness strategies.
Serum Vitamin D Level and Gut Microbiota in Women
Authors: Al-Khaldy Noorah S. , Al-Musharaf Sara , Aljazairy Esra’a A. , Hussain Syed Danish , Alnaami Abdullah M. , Al-Daghri Nasser , Aljuraiban Ghadeer
Published: January 2023

Obesity and vitamin D deficiency are two major public health concerns. Evidence suggests that alteration in gut microbiota composition is a possible risk factor for obesity. Additionally, altered vitamin D status has a potential role in shaping the gut microbial community. Further, the prevalence of obesity has been rising in the Middle East, especially among women of reproductive age, which is of specific concern due to its adverse effects on the health of their offspring. To date, limited evidence is available on the association between gut microbiota composition and vitamin D levels in Arab women. This study aims to identify the associations between serum vitamin D, gut microbiota, and obesity among Saudi females. The current study is a case–control study including 92 women aged 18 to 25 years, (n = 48) with normal weight and (n = 44) with obesity. Anthropometric, biochemical, lifestyle data, and fecal samples were collected and analyzed. We used shotgun metagenomic sequencing to characterize microbial communities of stool samples. Vitamin D levels were significantly associated with alpha and beta diversities. Serum vitamin D levels were positively associated with bacteria known to regulate immunological responses; Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron in the normal weight group (r = 0.34, p = 0.03) and Bifidobacterium adolescentis in the obesity group (r = 0.33, p = 0.04). In conclusion, the findings suggest that vitamin D status may play a role in regulating the gut microbiota composition by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria while nourishing the beneficial strains.
Epidemiology of Injuries in Amateur Male Soccer Players: A Prospective One-Year Study
Authors: Kekelekis Afxentios , Kounali Zoe , Kofotolis Nikolaos , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Kellis Eleftherios
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this study was to prospectively monitor and analyze injuries in Greek amateur male soccer players over one competitive season. One hundred and thirty male soccer players in a regional amateur league participated in this study. Injury data and exposure were collected from six teams during training and competition match over one season (2018/19). Injuries were collected weekly and were classified by setting, mechanism, severity, type, calendar distribution, period of injury occurrence, and anatomical location. A total of 103 injuries were recorded during the season, with an incident rate (IR) of 5.5 injuries/1000 h with 95% confidence intervals (CI) values of 4.45 (lower limit) and 6.09 (upper limit). Furthermore, IR was greater for the posterior thigh (IR 1.83/1000 h, 95% CI 1.21–2.44) and hip/groin complex (IR 1.45/1000 h, 95% CI 0.90–1.99) compared to other anatomical locations. Similarly, muscle injuries had greater IR (IR 3.61/1000 h, 95% CI 2.74–4.47) than other tissues. Amateur soccer players had a seven-fold greater chance of getting injured during games (IR 20.76/1000 h, 95% CI 15.28–26.24) rather than during training (IR 3.077/1000 h, 95% CI 2.16–3.80), while injury rates were higher towards the end of a session and peaked in October and February of the season. Based on these results, amateur soccer may benefit from injury prevention strategies incorporated into their regular training practice and focus on muscle injuries, especially in the posterior thigh and the hip/groin complex.
Information and Advance Care Directives for End-of-Life Residents with and without Dementia in Nursing Homes
Authors: Mota-Romero Emilio , Rodríguez-Landero Olga , Moya-Dieguez Rocío , Cano-Garzón Glaucione Marisol , Montoya-Juárez Rafael , Puente-Fernández Daniel
Published: January 2023

Background: Communication and advance care directives may be affected by the presence of dementia. We sought to describe the information and end-of-life preferences provided to nursing homes residents and their families. Methods: Trained nurses collected information from 124 residents randomly selected with palliative care needs from eight nursing homes. Results: A total of 54.4% of the residents with dementia had been provided with information about their state of health, compared to 92.5% of the residents without dementia (p < 0.01); family members exhibited no differences regarding information (p = 0.658), regardless of whether the resident was cognitively impaired. Most advance care interventions remained unexplored, except for cases where a transfer to hospital (81.5%) or serotherapy (69.4%) was desired. Decisions regarding palliative sedation (p = 0.017) and blood transfusion (p = 0.019) were lower among residents with dementia. Conclusions: Residents, especially residents with dementia, are provided with limited information and their preferences are inadequately explored.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Hematology Reports in 2022
Authors:   Hematology Reports Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
The Mortella II Wreck, a Genoese Merchantman Sunk in 1527 in Corsica (Saint-Florent, France): A Preliminary Assessment of the Site, Hull Structures and Artefacts
Authors: Cazenave de la Roche Arnaud , Ciacchella Fabrizio
Published: January 2023

This article presents the results of a preliminary archaeological operation carried out in 2021 on the Mortella II wreck. It was designed as a continuation and complement to the excavation of the Mortella III wreck that was performed between 2010 and 2019 and to which it is historically linked: both ships were Genoese merchantmen sailing together, which sank in 1527 in the context of the 7th Italian War between France and Spain. The paper takes up the main outcomes of the lines of research on shipbuilding and artefacts (anchors and artillery). It discusses their characteristics, comparing them to other wrecks of similar Mediterranean origin. In this way, this work seeks to contribute to the knowledge of Mediterranean shipbuilding and the material culture of the Renaissance, which is currently little known.
Altered Bimanual Kinetic and Kinematic Motor Control Capabilities in Older Women
Authors: Lee Joon Ho , Kang Nyeonju
Published: January 2023

Older women may experience critical neuromuscular impairments interfering with controlling successful bimanual motor actions. Our study aimed to investigate altered bimanual motor performances in older women compared with younger women by focusing on kinetic and kinematic motor properties. Twenty-two older women and 22 younger women performed bimanual kinetic and kinematic motor tasks. To estimate bimanual kinetic functions, we calculated bimanual maximal voluntary contractions (i.e., MVC) and force control capabilities (i.e., mean force, accuracy, variability, and regularity of the total force produced by two hands) during bimanual hand-grip submaximal force control tasks. For bimanual kinematic performances, we assessed the scores of the Purdue Pegboard Test (i.e., PPT) in both hands and assembly tasks, respectively. For the bimanual MVC and PPT, we conducted an independent t-test between two groups. The bimanual force control capabilities were analyzed using two-way mixed ANOVAs (Group × Force Level; 2 × 2). Our findings revealed that the older women showed less bimanual MVC (p = 0.046) and submaximal force outputs (p = 0.036) and greater changes in bimanual force control capabilities as indicated by a greater force variability (p = 0.017) and regularity (p = 0.014). Further, the older women revealed lower scores of PPT in both the hands condition (p < 0.001) and assembly task condition (p < 0.001). The additional correlation analyses for the older women showed that lower levels of skeletal muscle mass were related to less bimanual MVC (r = 0.591; p = 0.004). Furthermore, a higher age was related to lower scores in the bimanual PPT assembly task (r = −0.427; p = 0.048). These findings suggested that older women experience greater changes in bimanual motor functions compared with younger women.
Investigating the Role of Friendship Interventions on the Mental Health Outcomes of Adolescents: A Scoping Review of Range and a Systematic Review of Effectiveness
Authors: Manchanda Tanya , Stein Alan , Fazel Mina
Published: January 2023

Friendships are crucial in adolescent development. This paper presents a scoping review, followed by a systematic review, to assess friendship interventions and their impacts on the mental health outcomes of adolescents aged 12–24 years. Studies were included if they incorporated a friend or authentic social group in an intervention dedicated to improving mental health outcomes and well-being. Twenty-four studies were included in the scoping review, and eighteen in the systematic review. Data from 12,815 adolescents were analysed; three prominent themes emerged. The most common theme was promoting mental health literacy, followed by supporting help-seeking, and friendship-building/combating isolation. Most evaluations focused on the individual who had received the intervention, rather than their wider friends who would have been potential contacts and experienced any altered interactions. Of the studies focusing on friendship-building, all had positive short-term outcomes but inconclusive long-term effects. Two studies recruited friends from an individual’s authentic social group. While opportunities for improving mental health literacy and help-seeking emerged as key themes, the role of friends in mental health interventions has only been included in a small number of studies. Given that friends are a key point of contact for many adolescents, a better understanding of their domains of influence, particularly on mental health, will potentially enhance interventions.
How Does Problematic Internet Use Influence Chinese Rural Adolescent Externalizing Problem Behaviors? The Mediating Role of Mental Health and the Moderating Role of Parental Knowledge
Authors: Yang Shuping , Zhu Xingchen
Published: January 2023

This study aims to provide a new perspective on the relationship between problematic Internet use and externalizing problem behavior among adolescents. Many studies have focused on the relationship between problematic Internet use and adolescent externalizing problem behavior; however, research on the underlying mechanism remain understudied. Altogether, 1161 Chinese rural adolescents aged 13–17 years completed a self-report questionnaire. The results indicate that: (1) Problematic Internet use has a negative effect on rural adolescent externalizing problem behaviors; (2) mental health has an effect on the relationship between problematic Internet use and externalizing problem behaviors; and (3) parental knowledge may moderate the indirect effect by attenuating the relationship between problematic Internet use and externalizing problem behaviors. Regarding these findings, this study has discussed the potential reasons and provided some practical suggestions to improve problematic Internet use among rural adolescents.
Dietary Patterns, Occupational Stressors and Body Composition of Hospital Workers: A Longitudinal Study Comparing before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: de Lira Carlos Rodrigo Nascimento , Akutsu Rita de Cássia Coelho de Almeida , Coelho Lorene Gonçalves , Zandonadi Renata Puppin , Costa Priscila Ribas de Farias
Published: January 2023

This longitudinal study aimed to evaluate the association between dietary patterns and the body composition of hospital workers subjected to occupational stressors before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data on sociodemographic, occupational, lifestyle, anthropometric, food consumption and occupational stress were collected before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 218 workers from a private hospital in Santo Antônio de Jesus, Bahia, Brazil were included in the study. After evaluating the normality of the data, parametric or non-parametric tests were used to characterize the sample. Dietary pattern was defined with Exploratory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling was used to test the desired association. During the pandemic, work per shift increased by 8.2% (p = 0.004) and working hours > 40 h/week increased by 9.2% (p = 0.006). Despite the higher prevalence of low occupational stress (85.8% vs. 72.1%), high stress increased by 13.7% from 2019 to 2020 (p < 0.001) and 30.3% reported a positive mediating effect on the variables of body composition, body mass index (b = 0.478; p < 0.001), waist circumference (b = 0.395; p = 0.001), fat-free mass (b = 0.440; p = 0.001) and fat mass (b = −0.104; p = 0.292). Therefore, a dietary pattern containing high-calorie foods was associated with changes in the body composition of hospital workers, including occupational stressors as mediators of this relationship.
“It Happened When I Was Connecting to the Community…”: Multiple Pathways to Migrant (Non)Belonging in a New Destination Setting
Authors: Soto Saavedra Claudia , Lopez Jane Lilly , Shaw Stacey A. , Gibbs Benjamin G.
Published: January 2023

Migrants’ sense of belonging in their country and community of residence has direct effects on their health and wellbeing. A diverse set of case studies suggest that legal immigration status plays a primary role in shaping migrants’ opportunities for and experiences of belonging. Few of these studies, though, have examined belonging for migrants with varied legal immigration statuses living in the same receiving context, limiting our understanding of if and how migrant status interacts with other factors to shape access to belonging for migrants settling in the same host community. To address this gap, we analyze 73 semi-structured interviews with migrants in Utah, USA, to investigate the process and experience of belonging for migrants across permanent, temporary, undocumented, and refugee statuses. While legal immigration status is an important factor shaping (non)belonging, it does not appear to function as a master status for migrant belonging. Rather, we find that legal immigration status works alongside a number of community-level factors—including cultural, social, linguistic, and racial/ethnic factors—to shape belonging for migrants of all immigration statuses. These non-legal, community-level factors emerged as critical features of (non)belonging for many migrants living in Utah. Our findings suggest that, although they cannot change federal immigration policies, local- and state-level governments and organizations can enhance migrants’ access to belonging and wellbeing across many other dimensions.
Lessons Learned during a Rapidly Evolving COVID-19 Pandemic: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-Led Mental Health and Wellbeing Responses Are Key
Authors: Dudgeon Patricia , Collova Jemma R. , Derry Kate , Sutherland Stewart
Published: January 2023

As the world journeys towards the endemic phase that follows a pandemic, public health authorities are reviewing the efficacy of COVID-19 pandemic responses. The responses by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia have been heralded across the globe as an exemplary demonstration of how self-determination can achieve optimal health outcomes for Indigenous peoples. Despite this success, the impacts of pandemic stressors and public health responses on immediate and long-term mental health and wellbeing require examination. In December 2021, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and wellbeing leaders and allies (N = 50) attended a virtual roundtable to determine the key issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities, and the actions required to address these issues. Roundtable attendees critically reviewed how the rapidly evolving pandemic context has impacted Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB). This paper presents an overview of this national collaborative consultation process, and a summary of the key issues and actions identified. These results build on evidence from other roundtables held in Australia during 2020, and the emerging consensus across the globe that Indigenous self-determination remains essential to Indigenous SEWB, especially during and following a pandemic.
Ability of the Sport Education Model to Promote Healthy Lifestyles in University Students: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Liao Chun-Chin , Hsu Chien-Huei , Kuo Kuei-Pin , Luo Yu-Jy , Kao Chun-Chieh
Published: January 2023

Although studies on sports performance, leadership abilities, group cohesion, and learning motivation have revealed that the sport education model contributes considerably to the development of healthy lifestyles, few studies have explored the development of healthy lifestyles from an educational intervention perspective. This study fills this gap in the literature. In addition, studies have mostly recruited elementary or middle school students; few have explored the effectiveness of sport education for college students. To fill this gap, this study conducted quasi-experimental research on university students by using different teaching strategies, with healthy lifestyles as the dependent variable. The research participants consisted of 95 students from Ming Chuang University distributed to an experimental group or control group. The experimental group was taught using the sport education model; the control group was taught using direct instruction. The results indicate that the sport education model has a stronger ability to promote healthy lifestyles than conventional teaching. Additionally, the results suggest that teachers should apply specific teaching strategies to cultivate and reinforce exercise habits and healthy behaviors among students. On the basis of the results, the researchers suggest that physical education teachers establish effective teaching strategies and promote healthy lifestyles to students.
Nursing Staff Knowledge on the Use of Intraosseous Vascular Access in Out-Of-Hospital Emergencies
Authors: Ibarra Romero Macarena , Sánchez-García Juan Carlos , Cavazzoli Emanuele , Tovar-Gálvez María Isabel , Cortés-Martín Jonathan , Martínez-Heredia Nazaret , Rodríguez-Blanque Raquel
Published: January 2023

In healthcare practice, there may be critically injured patients in whom catheterisation of a peripheral venous access is not possible. In these cases, intraosseous access may be the preferred technique, using an intraosseous vascular access device (IOVA). Such devices can be used for infusion or administration of drugs in the same way as other catheterisations, which improves emergency care times, as it is a procedure that can be performed in seconds to a minute. The aim of this study was to analyse the level of knowledge of nursing staff working in emergency departments regarding the management of the intraosseous vascular access devices. To this end, a cross-sectional online study was carried out using an anonymous questionnaire administered to all professionals working in emergency and critical care units (ECCUs) in Granada district (Spain). The results show that 60% of the participants believe that with the knowledge they have, they would not be able to perform intraosseous vascular access, and 74% of the participants believe that the low use of this device is due to insufficient training. The obtained results suggest that the intraosseous access route, although it is a safe and quick way of achieving venous access in critical situations, is considered a secondary form of access because the knowledge of emergency and critical care professionals is insufficient, given the totality of the participants demanding more training in the management of intraosseous access devices. Therefore, the implementation of theoretical/practical training programmes related to intraosseous access (IO) could promote the continuous training of nurses working in ECCUs, in addition to improving the quality of care in emergency and critical care situations.
Physical Activity and Habitus: Parental Support or Peer Support?
Authors: Niu Long , Xu Jing , E Yiting
Published: January 2023

Social support can affect an individual’s physical activity and activity habitus. This study aims to explore: (1) the correlations between physical activity and parental/peer support among Chinese college students; (2) the differences between the effects of parental/peer support on college students’ physical activity. To achieve these aims, we conducted a cross-sectional study from September to December 2021, recruiting 1005 students (479 male respondents) from seven comprehensive universities in western China. Through OLS linear regression and quantile regression, we empirically testify that both parental support and peer support have significant influence on physical activity and activity habitus of Chinese college students, and peer support has greater impact. We also examine such effects of both types of support by grouping the samples into two groups on the bases of their existing physical activity habitus. We posit that as the most intimate interpersonal relationships, parental support and peer support play a key role in college students’ physical activity and activity habitus, and peer support has greater impact as they step into college. Our study provides insights into the factors of physical activity and activity habitus and we propose that attention regarding the impact of social support should be paid when we are trying to promote the physical activity of college students.
Relational Competence, School Adjustment and Emotional Skills: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Group of Junior and High School Students of the Sicilian Hinterland
Authors: Pellerone Monica , Martinez Torvisco Juan , Razza Stesy Giuseppa , Lo Piccolo Alessandra , Guarnera Maria , La Rosa Valentina Lucia , Commodari Elena
Published: January 2023

Research has demonstrated the influence of emotional adjustment on the manifestation of problematic behaviors in adolescence, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the present research is to investigate the role of self-esteem and relational skills on school performance in a group of middle and high school students during the COVID-19 period. The research involved 392 students, aged between 11 and 20 (M = 13.78; S.D. = 2.56). Participants completed the following instruments: an anamnestic constructed ad hoc questionnaire; the Interpersonal Relationships Test, in order to evaluate the perception of adolescents concerning the quality of their relationships in social, family and school contexts; and the Multidimensional Test of Self-Esteem, structured in six scales, which coincide with the dimensions considered constitutive of self-esteem. The preliminary data have shown how the older girls, attending the high school, tend to manifest a higher level of social competence with peer group and teachers. Furthermore, the perception of a reduced emotional self-efficacy but an elevated environmental control and good interpersonal skills seem to predict the school adjustment. Understanding adolescents’ perceptions of difficulties and their social support networks can offer some insight into how major social changes can be associated with individual well-being, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Life cycle Assessment Integrated with the Lexicographic Method for the Multi-Objective Optimization of Community-Based Rainwater Utilization
Authors: Li Yi , Xu Wenjun , Zhang Wenlong , Huang Youyi , Wan Fenfen , Xiong Wei
Published: January 2023

Community-based rainwater utilization (CB-RWU) has the advantage of easy maintenance and multiple benefits. However, its promotion proves to be a complicated task due to difficulties in quantifying and evaluating external benefits. This study integrated the life cycle assessment (LCA) with a multi-objective optimization model to optimize the relationship among all stages of CB-RWU, considering the trade-offs among the benefit–cost ratio, water-saving efficiency and environmental impact. The LCA results identified abiotic depletion potential for fossil fuels (ADPF) as the key impact indicators throughout the life cycle of CB-RWU. The optimal solution from the lexicographic method was 0.3098, 28.47% and 24.68 MJ for the benefit–cost ratio, water-saving efficiency and ADPF, respectively. Compared with the traditional optimization method, the lexicographic method improved the three object functions by 26%, 43% and 14%, respectively. The uncertainty of the environmental impact was the highest (CV = 0.633) with variations in the floor area ratio, total runoff coefficient and reservoir volume. Changes in the total runoff coefficient were the main source of the uncertainty, which suggested that more attention should be paid to the area ratio of each underlying surface. In addition, economic support from the government is urgently required for the further promotion and development of CB-RWU.
Public Willingness to Pay for Green Lifestyle in China: A Contingent Valuation Method Based on Integrated Model
Authors: Geng Jichao , Yang Na , Zhang Wei , Yang Li
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this study was to note how people recognize the green lifestyle and how much extra money they are willing to pay for it. An integrated model based on the theory of planned behavior was constructed, and data on the willingness to pay (WTP) for green lifestyles of 1377 respondents in five cities in East China were measured and calculated using the double-bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation method (DBDC) combined with interval regression analysis. The results showed that the respondents were willing to pay an extra 81.8 yuan, 52.5 yuan, 38.9 yuan, 53.2 yuan, and 37.2 yuan per month for green food, clothing, travel, housing, and waste recycling, respectively. Attitude and moral norms were the strongest predictors of WTP for green clothing, travel, housing, and waste recycling. Perceived behavior control, environmental awareness, personal habits, subjective knowledge, gender, income, and education can affect a few kinds of green lifestyle’s WTP.
Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Different Exercise Mode on Carotid Atherosclerosis
Authors: Gao Pincao , Zhang Xinxin , Yin Shanshan , Tuo Haowen , Lin Qihan , Tang Fang , Liu Weiguo
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: There is increasing evidence showing the health benefits of exercise on carotid atherosclerosis. However, little is known about the different exercise modes for carotid atherosclerosis. This study was designed to perform a meta-analysis of effect of different exercise modes on carotid atherosclerosis so as to provide evidence-based suggestions for the prevention and management of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. (2) Methods: Six databases were systematically searched to identify randomized trials that compared exercise to a non-exercise intervention in patient with carotid atherosclerosis. We a priori specified changes in cIMT, TC, LDL-C, and HDL-C biomarkers as outcomes. (3) Results: Thirty-four trials met the eligibility criteria, comprising 2420 participants. The main analyses showed pronounced differences on cIMT (MD = −0.06, 95%CI (−0.09, −0.04), p < 0.00001, TC (MD = −0.41, 95%CI (−0.58, −0.23), p < 0.00001), LDL-C (MD = −0.31, 95%CI (−0.43, −0.20), p < 0.00001), and HDL-C (MD = 0.11, 95%CI (0.04, 0.19), p = 0.004), which significantly reduced the risk factors of carotid atherosclerosis disease. In the different exercise modes, the effect was pronounced for aerobic exercise for all outcomes except TC; high-intensity interval exercise also showed significance for all outcomes except TC and HDL-C; aerobic exercise combined with resistance exercise did not affect any outcome except HDL-C; (4) Conclusions: Exercise has a prominent prevention and improvement effect on carotid atherosclerosis. In the perspective of exercise pattern, aerobic exercise and high-intensity intermittent exercise can improve carotid atherosclerosis; however, aerobic exercise has a more comprehensive improvement effect.
Echocardiographic Assessment of Patients with Glycogen Storage Disease in a Single Center
Authors: Seol Jaehee , Jung Seyong , Koh Hong , Jung Jowon , Kang Yunkoo
Published: January 2023

Glycogen storage disease (GSD) is a hereditary metabolic disorder caused by enzyme deficiency resulting in glycogen accumulation in the liver, muscle, heart, or kidney. GSD types II, III, IV, and IX are associated with cardiac involvement. However, cardiac manifestation in other GSD types is unclear. This study aimed to describe whether energy deprivation and the toxic effects of accumulated glycogen affect the heart of patients with GSD. We evaluated the left ventricle (LV) wall mass, LV systolic and diastolic function and myocardial strain with conventional echocardiography and two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D STE) in 62 patients with GSD type I, III, VI and IX who visited the Wonju Severance Hospital in 2021. Among the GSD patients, the echocardiographic parameters of 55 pediatrics were converted into z-scores and analyzed. Of the patients, 43 (62.3%), 7 (11.3%) and 12 (19.4%) patients were diagnosed with GSD type I, type III, and type IX, respectively. The median age was 9 years (range, 1–36 years), with 55 children under 18 years old and seven adults over 18 years. For the 55 pediatric patients, the echocardiographic parameters were converted into a z-score and analyzed. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the BMI z-score (p = 0.022) and CK (p = 0.020) predicted increased LV mass z-score, regardless of GSD type. There was no difference in the diastolic and systolic functions according to myocardial thickness; however, 2D STE showed a negative correlation with the LV mass (r = −0.28, p = 0.041). Given that patients with GSD tend to be overweight, serial evaluation with echocardiography might be required for all types of GSD.
Fewer Children in Families Associated with Lower Odds of Early Childhood Caries: A Sample from Three Countries
Authors: Park Amy H. , Kulchar Rachel J. , Susarla Sita Manasa , Turton Bathsheba , Sokal-Gutierrez Karen
Published: January 2023

Childhood caries experience is influenced by family characteristics and oral health practices in the context of many social-commercial determinants. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between families’ number of children, oral health practices and child caries experience in a convenience sample of 1374 children aged 6 months through 6 years and their families from Ecuador, Nepal, and Vietnam. Data were collected by mother interviews and child dental exams. Multivariate logistic and Zero-Inflated-Poisson regression analyses assessed associations between number of children, oral health practices and decayed, missing or filled teeth (dmft). Families had a mean of 2.2 children (range 1–12); 72% of children had tooth decay, with mean dmft of 5.4. Adjusting for child age, sex, and urban/rural location, a greater number of children in the family was associated with significantly less likelihood of unhealthy bottle feeding practices, having a toothbrush/toothpaste and parent helping child brush, and being cavity-free; higher number of dmft, and greater likelihood of having a dental visit. Early childhood oral health promotion should include focus on oral hygiene and healthy feeding—particularly breastfeeding and healthy bottle feeding practices—as well as access to family planning services and support for childcare.