bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Tree and Stand Traits on the Specific Leaf Area in Managed Scots Pine Forests of Different Ages
Authors: Błasiak Agnieszka , Węgiel Andrzej , Łukowski Adrian , Sułkowski Sławomir , Turski Mieczysław
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to understand the relationships between stand structure (tree size, volume, biomass, social position, stand density) and the variability of specific leaf area (SLA) at the stand level, which could improve forest management modeling. The study was carried out on 100 trees selected from 10 stands of Scots pine located in northwestern Poland. The stands had been established in a similar way and were similarly managed. Five mid-aged (51–60 years) and five mature (81–90 years) pure Scots pine stands were selected. To obtain the SLA index, we used the direct method, which involves scanning ca. 50 needles from each part of the tree crown. The average SLA was from 4.65 to 6.62 m2·kg−1 and differed significantly according to the part of the crown measured (p < 0.0001) and the tree age (p < 0.0001). The smallest SLA was in the upper part of the crown and the largest in the lower part of the crown, which is in line with the known relation to the light exposure of needles. Mid-aged stands of Scots pine have higher SLA values than mature ones. Dominant trees in mid-aged stands have a lower SLA than more shaded intermediate ones, which is probably due to the different lighting conditions within the canopy. No clear relationship is observed between the stand density and the SLA.
Multicriteria Decision Analysis and Group Decision-Making to Select Stand-Level Forest Management Models and Support Landscape-Level Collaborative Planning
Authors: Marques Marlene , Reynolds Keith M. , Marto Marco , Lakicevic Milena , Caldas Carlos , Murphy Philip J. , Borges José G.
Published: March 2021

Forest management planning is a challenge due to the diverse criteria that need to be considered in the underlying decision-making process. This challenge becomes more complex in joint collaborative management areas (ZIF) because the decision now may involve numerous actors with diverse interests, preferences, and goals. In this research, we present an approach to identifying and quantifying the most relevant criteria that actors consider in a forest management planning process in a ZIF context, including quantifying the performance of seven alternative stand-level forest management models (FMM). Specifically, we developed a combined multicriteria decision analysis and group decision-making process by (a) building a cognitive map with the actors to identify the criteria and sub-criteria; (b) structuring the decision tree; (c) structuring a questionnaire to elicit the importance of criteria and sub-criteria in a pairwise comparison process, and to evaluate the FMM alternatives; and (d) applying a Delphi survey to gather actors’ preferences. We report results from an application to a case study area, ZIF of Vale do Sousa, in North-Western Portugal. Actors assigned the highest importance to the criteria income (56.8% of all actors) and risks (21.6% of all actors) and the lowest to cultural services (27.0% of all actors). Actors agreed on their preferences for the sub-criteria of income (diversification of income sources), risks (wildfires) and cultural services (leisure and recreation activities). However, there was a poor agreement among actors on the sub-criteria of the wood demand and biodiversity criteria. For 27.0% of all actors the FMM with the highest performance was the pedunculate oak and for 43.2% of all actors the eucalypt FMM was the least preferable alternative. The findings indicate that this approach can support ZIF managers in enhancing forest management planning by improving its utility for actors and facilitating its implementation.
Parent Material Effect on Soil Organic Carbon Concentration under Primeval European Beech Forests at a Regional Scale
Authors: Pichler Viliam , Gömöryová Erika , Leuschner Christoph , Homolák Marián , Abrudan Ioan Vasile , Pichlerová Magdaléna , Střelcová Katarína , Di Filippo Alfredo , Sitko Roman
Published: March 2021

The research presented herein explores soil organic carbon concentration (SOCC) under monodominant primeval forests of European beech trees and their association with parent material on a regional scale. Soil sampling to a maximum depth of 0.8 m was conducted in six localities in the West, East, and South Carpathians, Eastern Albanides, and Central Apennines, situated on different parent materials. Samples were analysed for SOCC by the dry combustion method. The average SOCC values representing individual localities ranged from 12.5 g kg−1 to 154.8 g kg−1 with a 99.7% coefficient of variation. SOCC association with climatic variables and forest stand volume data available from the literature were assessed by a Pearson correlation coefficient. Differences in SOCC among localities caused by site conditions were treated as a fixed factor in Welch’s ANOVA and found to be significant (p < 0.05) in the majority of cases. The associations between SOCC and climatic variables or stand volume were nonsignificant or perturbed. Since they validly explained less than 10% of the overall SOCC variance, the results of multiple comparison tests were assessed and interpreted in view of distinct parent materials.
On Some Significant Phytoplasma Diseases of Forest Trees: An Update
Authors: Marcone Carmine , Valiunas Deividas , Mondal Soma , Sundararaj Ramachandran
Published: March 2021

This paper provides an updating of information of a selected number of major phytoplasma diseases of forest trees, with a focus on the associated phytoplasma taxa. Phytoplasma diseases of forest trees have been less extensively studied than those affecting fruit trees. Research on the role of phytoplasmas as the cause of diseases of forest trees has only in the last few years been intensified, after sensitive and specific detection methods greatly based on PCR technology became available. Various phytoplasma taxa have been identified in naturally infected elm, ash, conifer, sandal, and eucalyptus trees, whereas only one phytoplasma taxon has been recorded in naturally infected alder trees. However, for almost all of the reviewed diseases, there is still sparse information about insect vectors, plant host range, strain virulence, pathogenicity, and host tolerance and resistance. Knowledge of these aspects is the basis for appropriate disease management. In particular, further research is required to clarify the role of phytoplasmas in asymptomatic trees. In addition, the etiological role of various “non-specific” phytoplasma taxa, which have been recorded in forest trees, while no data from pathological studies are available, needs to be further investigated.
Two-Layer Network Caching for Different Service Requirements
Authors: Reali Gianluca , Femminella Mauro
Published: March 2021

Network caching is a technique used to speed-up user access to frequently requested contents in complex data networks. This paper presents a two-layer overlay network caching system for content distribution. It is used to define some caching scenarios with increasing complexity, which refers to real situations, including mobile 5G connectivity. For each scenario our aim is to maximize the hit ratio, which leads to the formulation of NP-complete optimization problems. The heuristic solutions proposed are based on the theory of the maximization of monotone submodular functions under matroid constraints. After the determination of the approximation ratio of the greedy heuristic algorithms proposed, a numerical performance analysis is shown. This analysis includes a comparison with the Least-Frequently Used (LFU) eviction strategy adapted to the analyzed systems. Results show very good performance, under the hypotheses of either known or unknown popularity of contents.
The Effect of Seeding Treatments and Climate on Fire Regimes in Wyoming Sagebrush Steppe
Authors: Bowman-Prideaux Chris , Newingham Beth A. , Strand Eva K.
Published: March 2021

Wildfire size and frequency have increased in the western United States since the 1950s, but it is unclear how seeding treatments have altered fire regimes in arid steppe systems. We analyzed how the number of fires since 1955 and the fire return interval and frequency between 1995 and 2015 responded to seeding treatments, anthropogenic features, and abiotic landscape variables in Wyoming big sagebrush ecosystems. Arid sites had more fires than mesic sites and fire return intervals were shortest on locations first treated between 1975 and 2000. Sites drill seeded before the most recent fire had fewer, less frequent fires with longer fire return intervals (15–20 years) than aerially seeded sites (intervals of 5–8 years). The response of fire regime variables at unseeded sites fell between those of aerial and drill seeding. Increased moisture availability resulted in decreased fire frequency between 1994 and 2014 and the total number of fires since 1955 on sites with unseeded and aerially pre-fire seeding, but fire regimes did not change when drill seeded. Greater annual grass biomass likely contributed to frequent fires in the arid region. In Wyoming big sagebrush steppe, drill seeding treatments reduced wildfire risk relative to aerial seeded or unseeded sites.
Bisphenol A and Metabolites in Meat and Meat Products: Occurrence, Toxicity, and Recent Development in Analytical Methods
Authors: Siddique Md Abu bakar , Harrison Sabine M. , Monahan Frank J. , Cummins Enda , Brunton Nigel P.
Published: March 2021

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a commonly used compound in many industries and has versatile applications in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins production. BPA is classified as endocrine-disrupting chemical which can hamper fetal development during pregnancy and may have long term negative health outcomes in humans. Dietary sources, main route of BPA exposure, can be contaminated by the migration of BPA into food during processing. The global regulatory framework for using this compound in food contact materials is currently not harmonized. This review aims to outline, survey, and critically evaluate BPA contamination in meat products, including level of BPA and/or metabolites present, exposure route, and recent advancements in the analytical procedures of these compounds from meat and meat products. The contribution of meat and meat products to the total dietary exposure of BPA ranges between 10 and 50% depending on the country and exposure scenario considered. From can lining materials of meat products, BPA migrates towards the solid phase resulting higher BPA concentration in solid phase than the liquid phase of the same can. The analytical procedure is comprised of meat sample pre-treatment, followed by cleaning with solid phase extraction (SPE), and chromatographic analysis. Considering several potential sources of BPA in industrial and home culinary practices, BPA can also accumulate in non-canned or raw meat products. Very few scientific studies have been conducted to identify the amount in raw meat products. Similarly, analysis of metabolites and identification of the origin of BPA contamination in meat products is still a challenge to overcome.
Composite Coatings of Chitosan and Alginate Emulsions with Olive Oil to Enhance Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life of Fresh Figs (Ficus carica L. cv. ‘Pingo De Mel’)
Authors: Vieira Tiago M. , Moldão-Martins Margarida , Alves Vítor D.
Published: March 2021

Fresh figs are very appreciated and have been associated with health benefits. However, these fruits are highly perishable. In this study, edible coatings were studied envisaging their positive effect in enhancing figs’ shelf-life. Fig fruits cv. ‘Pingo de mel’ were harvested at commercial ripening stage and single emulsion-based coatings, composed of chitosan + olive oil and alginate + olive oil, were applied. After coatings application by dipping each fruit in the emulsion-based solutions at 4 °C and drying, the coated fruits were sprayed with crosslinking solutions (6% tripolyphosphate and 1% calcium chloride for chitosan and alginate-based coatings, respectively). Then, were maintained at 4 °C and analyzed after 1, 7, 14 and 19 days of storage. After each time interval, fruits were further maintained at 25 °C for 2 days. The results have shown that coatings were effective on delaying fungal decay and postharvest ripening indicators (respiration rate, mass loss, softening and total soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio). The results foresee a fruits’ shelf life between 14 and 19 days under refrigeration at 4 °C that may be followed up to 2 days at ambient temperature, higher than that estimated for uncoated fruits (less than 14 days at 4 °C plus to 2 days at ambient temperature).
Innovative Preservation Technology for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
Authors: Pace Bernardo , Cefola Maria
Published: March 2021

The preservation of the freshness of fruits and vegetables until their consumption is the aim of many research activities. Quality losses of fresh fruit and vegetables during cold chain are frequently attributable to an inappropriate use of postharvest technologies. Moreover, especially when fresh produce is transported to distant markets, it is necessary to adopt proper postharvest preservation technologies in order to preserve the initial quality and limit microbial decay. Nowadays, for each step of supply chain (packing house, cold storage rooms, precooling center, refrigerate transport and distribution), are available innovative preservation technologies that, alone or in combination, could improve the fresh products in order to maintain the principal quality and nutritional characteristics. The issue groups five original studies and two comprehensive reviews within the topic of preservation technologies related to innovative packaging and postharvest operation and treatments, highlighting their effect on quality keeping.
Active Polypropylene-Based Films Incorporating Combined Antioxidants and Antimicrobials: Preparation and Characterization
Authors: Peighambardoust Seyed Hadi , Fasihnia Seyedeh Homa , Peighambardoust Seyed Jamaleddin , Pateiro Mirian , Domínguez Rubén , Lorenzo José M.
Published: March 2021

Development of polypropylene (PP) films incorporating antioxidant-antimicrobial agents can inhibit microbial growth and reduce undesirable deteriorating reactions and can preserve the quality of food. This study was aimed to use a combination of sorbic acid (SA), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) to provide a synergistic effect at their reduced concentrations. A Combination of the additives was more effective in enhancing mechanical properties compared to their single state in film composition. The PP-2%SA-3%BHA film (T3) had the highest tensile strength (17.9 MPa) and the lowest elongation at break (7.1%) than other films. The fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) proposed physical mixing of active additives within PP-matrix. Scanning electron microscopy showed uniform dispersion of the additives in PP-2%SA-1%BHT-1%BHA film (T4) compared to others. BHT containing films decreased the storage and loss moduli leading to weakening of film viscoelastic behaviour and reducing film melting point. The prepared active films showed higher antioxidant activity than control PP-film following an order of T4 > T2 > T3 corresponding to DPPH radical scavenging values of 89.1, 83.4 and 79.1%, respectively. All active films inhibited gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria growth. The results of this study indicated that the prepared active films possess desirable mechanical, thermal, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties enabling their use in food packaging.
(−)-Epigallocatechin Gallate Stability in Ready-To-Drink (RTD) Green Tea Infusions in TiO2 and Oleic-Acid-Modified TiO2 Polylactic Acid Film Packaging Stored under Fluorescent Light during Refrigerated Storage at 4 °C
Authors: Baek Naerin , Kim Young , Duncan Susan , Leitch Kristen , O’Keefe Sean
Published: March 2021

The light-protective effectiveness of titanium dioxide polylactic acid (TiO2 PLA) nanocomposite films (T-PLA) and oleic-acid-modified (OA_TiO2PLA) nanocomposite films was investigated in ready-to-drink (RTD) green tea infusions in oxygen-impermeable glass packaging. The stability of (−)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) was evaluated in RTD green tea infusions in glass packaging covered with PLA (polylactic acid), T-PLA and OT-PLA under fluorescent light during 20 days of storage at 4 °C. Levels of EGCG and color change of RTD green tea infusions were determined. In addition, sensory tests for difference were conducted on green tea infusions in glass packaging without and with complete light protection during 10 days of storage at 4 °C. Of the panelists, 60% noticed sensory differences in the RTD green tea infusion in two different packaging conditions during 10 days of storage under fluorescent light by a triangle test (p < 0.05). During 20 days of storage, levels of EGCG with complete light protection decreased by 10.8% (0.73 mg/mL), and there was a 42.2% loss of EGCG (0.48 mg/mL) in RTD green tea infusions in the glass packaging covered by PLA film. Finally, 3% T-PLA preserved higher levels of EGCG in RTD green tea infusions compared to 1% T-PLA and OT-PLA.
Evolution of Multicellular Complexity in The Dictyostelid Social Amoebas
Authors: Kin Koryu , Schaap Pauline
Published: March 2021

Multicellularity evolved repeatedly in the history of life, but how it unfolded varies greatly between different lineages. Dictyostelid social amoebas offer a good system to study the evolution of multicellular complexity, with a well-resolved phylogeny and molecular genetic tools being available. We compare the life cycles of the Dictyostelids with closely related amoebozoans to show that complex life cycles were already present in the unicellular common ancestor of Dictyostelids. We propose frost resistance as an early driver of multicellular evolution in Dictyostelids and show that the cell signalling pathways for differentiating spore and stalk cells evolved from that for encystation. The stalk cell differentiation program was further modified, possibly through gene duplication, to evolve a new cell type, cup cells, in Group 4 Dictyostelids. Studies in various multicellular organisms, including Dictyostelids, volvocine algae, and metazoans, suggest as a common principle in the evolution of multicellular complexity that unicellular regulatory programs for adapting to environmental change serve as “proto-cell types” for subsequent evolution of multicellular organisms. Later, new cell types could further evolve by duplicating and diversifying the “proto-cell type” gene regulatory networks.
Characterization of Four Orphan Receptors (GPR3, GPR6, GPR12 and GPR12L) in Chickens and Ducks and Regulation of GPR12 Expression in Ovarian Granulosa Cells by Progesterone
Authors: Li Zejiao , Jiang Biying , Cao Baolong , Zhang Zheng , Zhang Jiannan , Li Juan , Huang Yan , Wang Yajun
Published: March 2021

The three structurally related orphan G protein-coupled receptors, GRP3, GPR6, and GPR12, are reported to be constitutively active and likely involved in the regulation of many physiological/pathological processes, such as neuronal outgrowth and oocyte meiotic arrest in mammals. However, the information regarding these orphan receptors in nonmammalian vertebrates is extremely limited. Here, we reported the structure, constitutive activity, and tissue expression of these receptors in two representative avian models: chickens and ducks. The cloned duck GPR3 and duck/chicken GPR6 and GPR12 are intron-less and encode receptors that show high amino acid (a.a.) sequence identities (66–88%) with their respective mammalian orthologs. Interestingly, a novel GPR12-like receptor (named GPR12L) sharing 66% a.a. identity to that in vertebrates was reported in the present study. Using dual-luciferase reporter assay and Western blot, we demonstrated that GPR3, GPR6, GPR12, and GPR12L are constitutively active and capable of stimulating the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway without ligand stimulation in birds (and zebrafish), indicating their conserved signaling property across vertebrates. RNA-seq data/qRT-PCR assays revealed that GPR6 and GPR12L expression is mainly restricted to the chicken brain, while GPR12 is highly expressed in chicken ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) and oocytes of 6 mm growing follicles and its expression in cultured GCs is upregulated by progesterone. Taken together, our data reveal the structure, function, and expression of GPR3, GPR6, GPR12, and GPR12L in birds, thus providing the first piece of evidence that GPR12 expression is upregulated by gonadal steroid (i.e., progesterone) in vertebrates.
Genetic Causes of Oculocutaneous Albinism in Pakistani Population
Authors: Sajid Zureesha , Yousaf Sairah , Waryah Yar M. , Mughal Tauqeer A. , Kausar Tasleem , Shahzad Mohsin , Rao Ali R. , Abbasi Ansar A. , Shaikh Rehan S. , Waryah Ali M. , Riazuddin Saima , Ahmed Zubair M.
Published: March 2021

Melanin pigment helps protect our body from broad wavelength solar radiation and skin cancer. Among other pigmentation disorders in humans, albinism is reported to manifest in both syndromic and nonsyndromic forms as well as with varying inheritance patterns. Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA), an autosomal recessive nonsyndromic form of albinism, presents as partial to complete loss of melanin in the skin, hair, and iris. OCA has been known to be caused by pathogenic variants in seven different genes, so far, according to all the currently published population studies. However, the detection rate of alleles causing OCA varies from 50% to 90%. One of the significant challenges of uncovering the pathological variant underlying disease etiology is inter- and intra-familial locus heterogeneity. This problem is especially pertinent in highly inbred populations. As examples of such familial locus heterogeneity, we present nine consanguineous Pakistani families with segregating OCA due to variants in one or two different known albinism-associated genes. All of the identified variants are predicted to be pathogenic, which was corroborated by several in silico algorithms and association with diverse clinical phenotypes. We report an individual affected with OCA carries heterozygous, likely pathogenic variants in TYR and OCA2, raising the question of a possible digenic inheritance. Altogether, our study highlights the significance of exome sequencing for the complete genetic diagnosis of inbred families and provides the ramifications of potential genetic interaction and digenic inheritance of variants in the TYR and OCA2 genes.
Cone Dystrophy Associated with a Novel Variant in the Terminal Codon of the RPGR-ORF15
Authors: Hadalin Vlasta , Šuštar Maja , Volk Marija , Maver Aleš , Sajovic Jana , Jarc-Vidmar Martina , Peterlin Borut , Hawlina Marko , Fakin Ana
Published: March 2021

Mutations in RPGRORF15 are associated with rod-cone or cone/cone-rod dystrophy, the latter associated with mutations at the distal end. We describe the phenotype associated with a novel variant in the terminal codon of the RPGRORF15 c.3457T>A (Ter1153Lysext*38), which results in a C-terminal extension. Three male patients from two families were recruited, aged 31, 35, and 38 years. Genetic testing was performed by whole exome sequencing. Filtered variants were analysed according to the population frequency, ClinVar database, the variant’s putative impact, and predicted pathogenicity; and were classified according to the ACMG guidelines. Examination included visual acuity (Snellen), colour vision (Ishihara), visual field, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and electrophysiology. All patients were myopic, and had central scotoma and reduced colour vision. Visual acuities on better eyes were counting fingers, 0.3 and 0.05. Electrophysiology showed severely reduced cone-specific responses and macular dysfunction, while the rod-specific response was normal. FAF showed hyperautofluorescent ring centred at the fovea encompassing an area of photoreceptor loss approximately two optic discs in diameter (3462–6342 μm). Follow up after 2–11 years showed enlargement of the diameter (avg. 100 μm/year). The novel c.3457T>A (Ter1153Lysext*38) mutation in the terminal RPGRORF15 codon is associated with cone dystrophy, which corresponds to the previously described phenotypes associated with mutations in the distal end of the RPGRORF15. Minimal progression during follow-up years suggests a relatively stable disease after the initial loss of the central cones.
Genetic, Genomics, and Responses to Stresses in Cyanobacteria: Biotechnological Implications
Authors: Cassier-Chauvat Corinne , Blanc-Garin Victoire , Chauvat Franck
Published: March 2021

Cyanobacteria are widely-diverse, environmentally crucial photosynthetic prokaryotes of great interests for basic and applied science. Work to date has focused mostly on the three non-nitrogen fixing unicellular species Synechocystis PCC 6803, Synechococcus PCC 7942, and Synechococcus PCC 7002, which have been selected for their genetic and physiological interests summarized in this review. Extensive “omics” data sets have been generated, and genome-scale models (GSM) have been developed for the rational engineering of these cyanobacteria for biotechnological purposes. We presently discuss what should be done to improve our understanding of the genotype-phenotype relationships of these models and generate robust and predictive models of their metabolism. Furthermore, we also emphasize that because Synechocystis PCC 6803, Synechococcus PCC 7942, and Synechococcus PCC 7002 represent only a limited part of the wide biodiversity of cyanobacteria, other species distantly related to these three models, should be studied. Finally, we highlight the need to strengthen the communication between academic researchers, who know well cyanobacteria and can engineer them for biotechnological purposes, but have a limited access to large photobioreactors, and industrial partners who attempt to use natural or engineered cyanobacteria to produce interesting chemicals at reasonable costs, but may lack knowledge on cyanobacterial physiology and metabolism.
An Economic Analysis of Brownfield and Greenfield Industrial Parks Investment Projects: A Case Study of Eastern Slovakia
Authors: Pavolová Henrieta , Bakalár Tomáš , Tokarčík Alexander , Kozáková Ľubica , Pastyrčák Tomáš
Published: March 2021

The implementation of industrial park investment projects in relation to the use of brownfields and greenfields is a constantly debated issue. Brownfields are unused areas, often with devastated building objects and environmental burden that pose potential risks to the investor but also contain the possibility of using the available infrastructure and facilities for the use of the proposed investment project. The objective of the study was to assess the positive and negative investment of these types of sites based on the available information on the possibilities of investing in the implementation of the brownfield industrial park compared to the greenfield in the western part of East Slovak region and to identify a more appropriate alternative of investing. Based on the assessment of investment in the industrial parks, the appropriateness of the allocation of investment capital was assessed through the simple additive weighting (SAW) method. The SAW approach allows us to objectivize the weighting value of selected factors and thus assess the appropriateness of the allocation of investment capital. Based on the results, it is more advantageous to allocate the investment capital to the greenfield as the return on investment of the project expressed as a percentage of the average annual profit was 9.5%, compared to brownfield with only 2.9%.
Associations between Inter-Limb Asymmetries in Jump and Change of Direction Speed Tests and Physical Performance in Adolescent Female Soccer Players
Authors: Pardos-Mainer Elena , Bishop Chris , Gonzalo-Skok Oliver , Nobari Hadi , Pérez-Gómez Jorge , Lozano Demetrio
Published: March 2021

The association between asymmetries in jump and change of direction (COD) with physical performance in several sports show inconclusive results. The purposes of this study were to: (1) measure inter-limb asymmetries in three distinct groups in adolescent female soccer players and, (2) to determine the association between inter-limb asymmetries and physical performance in different age groups. Fifty-four players were distributed in three age groups: U-18, U-16 and U-14. All of them performed a series of jumps, sprints and change of direction speed tests. Asymmetries were assessed as the percentage difference between limbs, with the equation: 100/Max value (right and left) * in value (right and left) * −1 + 100. Mean inter-limb asymmetries were 2.91%, 4.82% and 11.6% for 180° COD, single leg hop and single leg countermovement jump tests respectively, but higher percentages of asymmetries were observed in many players individually. U-18 and U-16 showed significant differences on 180° left COD compared to U-14. Effect size (ES): 0.80 and 0.74, respectively; U-18 presented differences on single left leg hop test compared to U-14, ES: −0.72; U-16 also showed differences on 40 m speed compared to U-14, ES 0.87 (All p < 0.05). Jumping and COD physical tests show asymmetries in adolescent female soccer players, but these asymmetries do not interfere with physical performance. The largest asymmetry was observed in the single leg countermovement jump, and no asymmetries between groups were found. Due to the high variability in the direction of asymmetries, it is recommended to consider players’ individual asymmetries for designing specific training programs.
Assessment of the Exposure to Gradient Magnetic Fields Generated by MRI Tomographs: Measurement Method, Verification of Limits and Clearance Areas through a Web-Based Platform
Authors: Di Liberto Riccardo , Andreuccetti Daniele , Comelli Moreno , Burriesci Giancarlo
Published: March 2021

This work is the result of a campaign of measures of exposure levels to magnetic field gradients (GMF) generated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tomographs, to which both healthcare staff and any persons accompanying patients who remain inside the magnet room are exposed while performing a diagnostic Investigation. The study was conducted on three MRI tomographs with a static magnetic induction field up to 1.5 T installed in two hospitals of Lombardy. The study aims to characterize electromagnetic emissions within the magnet room and the definition of a measurement method suitable for assessing the level of exposure of healthcare personnel and any persons accompanying patients. The measurements performed concerned the determination of the weighted peak index for magnetic induction, due to the diagnostic GMF, relating to the action levels for the workers and the reference levels for the general population, in force in the European Union. Thanks to the defined experimental setup, the use of two different measuring instruments, and the software resources of the WEBNIR platform, it was possible to identify, for both categories of exposed persons, the “clearance” space, i.e., the distance from the magnet of the tomograph that guarantees health protection concerning the exposure to GMF, according to the indications of the standards in force. The method used showed that the exposure levels to GMF are substantially safe for professionally exposed workers who do not carry specific risks. For workers particularly sensitive to the specific risk, as well as to individuals part of the population, it is however advisable to maintain a distance from the magnet of about one meter to prevent sensorial neuromuscular stimulation effects.
The Effect of Autoregulated Flywheel and Traditional Strength Training on Training Load Progression and Motor Skill Performance in Youth Athletes
Authors: Westblad Niklas , Petré Henrik , Kårström Andreas , Psilander Niklas , Björklund Glenn
Published: March 2021

Background: The effects of flywheel resistance training (FRT) on youth are relatively unknown. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of autoregulated FRT with traditional strength training (TST) on jumping, running performance and resistance training load progression in youth athletes. Thirty youth athletes (11.8 ± 0.9 yr) were matched for peak height velocity (PHV) status and block-randomised into two groups: FRT (n = 15, PHV −0.8 ± 1.6) and TST (n = 15, PHV −0.8 ± 1.5). Twelve resistance training sessions over a six-week intervention with flywheel or barbell squats were performed using autoregulated load prescription. Squat jump (SJ); countermovement jump (CMJ); and 10 m, 20 m and 30 m sprints were assessed pre- and post-intervention. The external load increased similarly for FRT and TST (z = 3.8, p = 0.06). SJ increased for both groups (p < 0.05) but running performance was unaffected (p > 0.05). Conclusions: FRT resulted in similar load progression and motor skill development in youth athletes as TST, but the perceived exertion was less. Autoregulation is a practical method for adjusting training load during FRT and should be considered as an alternative to autoregulated TST.
Higher Accuracy of Lung Ultrasound over Chest X-ray for Early Diagnosis of COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Martínez Redondo Javier , Comas Rodríguez Carles , Pujol Salud Jesús , Crespo Pons Montserrat , García Serrano Cristina , Ortega Bravo Marta , Palacín Peruga Jose María
Published: March 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic rapidly strained healthcare systems worldwide. The reference standard for diagnosis is a positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test, but results are not immediate and sensibility is variable. Aim: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of lung ultrasound compared to chest X-ray for COVID-19 pneumonia. Design and Setting: A retrospective analysis of symptomatic patients admitted into one primary care centre in Spain between March and September 2020. Method: Patients’ chest X-rays and lung ultrasounds were categorized as normal or pathologic. RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 infection. Pathologic lung ultrasound images were further categorized as showing either local or diffuse interstitial disease. McNemar and Fisher tests were used to compare diagnostic accuracy. Results: Most of the 212 patients presented fever at admission, either as a standalone symptom (37.74% of patients) or together with others (72.17% of patients). The positive predictive value of the lung ultrasound was 90% for the diffuse interstitial pattern and 46.92% for local pattern. The lung ultrasound had a significantly higher sensitivity (82.75%) (p < 0.001), but lower specificity (71%) than the chest X-ray (54.02% and 86%, respectively) (p = 0.008) for identifying interstitial lung disease. Moreover, sensitivity of the lung ultrasound for severe interstitial disease was 100%, and was significantly higher than the chest X-ray (58.33%) (p = 0.002). Conclusion: The lung ultrasound is more accurate than the chest X-ray for identifying patients with COVID-19 pneumonia and it is especially useful for those presenting diffuse interstitial disease.
What Role Does Body Image in Relationship between Level of Health Literacy and Symptoms of Eating Disorders in Adolescents?
Authors: Boberová Zuzana , Husárová Daniela
Published: March 2021

(1) Background: The aim of this study was to explore the associations between health literacy and symptoms for eating disorders among adolescents, taking into consideration age and gender and whether this association is mediated by body image. (2) Methods: We used data on 5054 adolescents (mean age = 13.9, 51.7% boys) from the Health Behaviour in School-Aged Children study conducted in 2018 in Slovakia. We used logistic regression models to examine associations between level of health literacy and symptoms for eating disorders mediated by body image. (3) Results: Adolescents with low and medium levels of health literacy had a higher occurrence of reporting two or more symptoms of eating disorders (odds ratio (OR)/95% CI: 2.25/1.78–2.84 and 1.37/1.15–1.65). Adjustment for body image reduced the significance of association between low level of health literacy and symptoms for eating disorders by 26.4%, and association between medium level of health literacy and symptoms for eating disorders by 29.7%. (4) Conclusions: Adolescents who have a low health literacy level were found to have a higher probability of having symptoms for eating disorders, especially when they perceive themselves as fat. The study refers to potential theoretical frameworks for health literacy intervention that may provide guidelines for the intervention design and materials.
The Contribution of Neighborhood Tree and Greenspace to Asthma Emergency Room Visits: An Application of Advanced Spatial Data in Los Angeles County
Authors: Kim Dohyung , Ahn Yongjin
Published: March 2021

This paper aims to investigate the role of neighborhood tree and greenspace on asthma morbidity, especially asthma emergency room visits. We employed advanced spatial data which allow for precisely capturing both the quantity and the features of tree and greenspace within a neighborhood environment. The results from the spatial regression models in Los Angeles County revealed that the features of trees and greenspace, such as the configuration of the tree canopy, the level of tree clustering, and private neighborhood greenspaces contribute to decreasing asthma morbidity, in addition to the quantity of tree and greenspace acreages. Notably, however, large scale greenspace, such as golf courses, school playgrounds, and parks fails to reduce the number of asthma emergency room visits at the statistically significant level. These findings imply that the creation of dense or clustered tree patches and small-scale neighborhood greenspaces might play a substantial role in mitigating air quality and consequently reducing asthma emergency room visits.
Portuguese Nurses’ Stress, Anxiety, and Depression Reduction Strategies during the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: de Pinho Lara Guedes , Sampaio Francisco , Sequeira Carlos , Teixeira Laetitia , Fonseca César , Lopes Manuel José
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to mental health problems worldwide. Nurses are particularly prone to stress because they directly care for individuals with suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19. The aims of this study were (a) to explore the association between the mental health promotion strategies used by nurses during the COVID-19 outbreak and their symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress; (b) to compare the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress of mental health nurses to those of non-mental health nurses; and (c) to compare the frequency of use of mental health strategies of mental health nurses to those of non-mental health nurses. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 821 nurses. Univariate and multivariate regression models were developed to identify potential protective factors of depression, anxiety, and stress. The chi-square test was also used to compare the use of strategies among mental health and non-mental health nurses. Portuguese nurses demonstrated high symptoms of depressive symptoms, stress, and anxiety. Healthy eating, physical activity, rest between shifts, maintaining social contacts, verbalizing feelings/emotions, and spending less time searching for information about COVID-19 were associated with better mental health. Mental health nurses had less depression, anxiety, and stress, and used more strategies to promote mental health than other nurses. We consider it important to promote nurses’ mental health literacy by encouraging them to develop skills and strategies aimed at improving their resilience and ability to deal with difficult situations while caring for the population.
Characteristics of Selected Somatic and Motor Abilities of Youth Soccer Players with Diabetes Type 1 Treated with Insulin Pump Therapy
Authors: Krzykała Magdalena , Domaszewska Katarzyna , Woźniewicz-Dobrzyńska Małgorzata , Kryściak Jakub , Konarska Agata , Araszkiewicz Aleksandra , Zozulińska-Ziółkiewicz Dorota , Gawrecki Andrzej , Biegański Grzegorz , Konarski Jan M.
Published: March 2021

Long-term insulin treatment can slow the growth process and decrease physical fitness level in children. In diabetic children, these two developments should be constantly monitored. The aim of the present study was to examine differences in somatic and physical fitness characteristics between soccer-training boys with type 1 diabetes and healthy boys of the same age (reference values based on Polish population norms for somatic and motor parameters). The participants were 94 boys (8–17 years), diagnosed with diabetes, who participated in soccer training on a regular basis and received routine medical care. The study involved (a) anthropometric and body composition measurements, (b) general motor ability assessments, and (c) comparison of those characteristics with the healthy Polish population. The diabetic boys were found to have lower levels of almost all somatic traits and motor abilities as compared with the healthy boys (p ≤ 0.05). Handgrip strength was a variable with the smallest difference between the two groups. The observed differences indicate the necessity to design an appropriate control and assessment system based on simple medical and fitness field tests for diabetic children and adolescents. It will allow optimizing advanced training as well as minimize health risks before, during, or after exercise.
Eating Alone or Together among Community-Living Older People—A Scoping Review
Authors: Björnwall Amanda , Mattsson Sydner Ylva , Koochek Afsaneh , Neuman Nicklas
Published: March 2021

Research on healthy aging commonly concerns problems related to loneliness and food intake. These are not independent aspects of health since eating, beyond its biological necessity, is a central part of social life. This scoping review aimed to map scientific articles on eating alone or together among community-living older people, and to identify relevant research gaps. Four databases were searched, 989 articles were identified and 98 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. In the first theme, eating alone or together are treated as central topics of interest, isolated from adjoining, broader concepts such as social participation. In the second, eating alone or together are one aspect of the findings, e.g., one of several risk factors for malnutrition. Findings confirm the significance of commensality in older peoples’ life. We recommend future research designs allowing identification of causal relationships, using refined ways of measuring meals alone or together, and qualitative methods adding complexity.
Diet-Related Mobile Apps to Promote Healthy Eating and Proper Nutrition: A Content Analysis and Quality Assessment
Authors: Choi Jihye , Chung Chongwook , Woo Hyekyung
Published: March 2021

Dietary mobile applications (apps) continue to hold promise for facilitating a healthy diet and managing nutrition. However, few studies have objectively evaluated the content and quality of such apps in Korea. The present study assessed the content and quality of dietary mobile apps using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). We selected 29 dietary apps based on keywords and eligibility criteria for inclusion in the analyses. We conducted regression analyses to examine the association between app content and MARS scores. Most of the apps featured a tracking tool, while few featured rewards or follow-up management. Our quality assessment revealed that the top-rated apps have distinct levels of quality in terms of MARS scores. The regression analyses showed that the ways in which the apps provide information and motivate the users are statistically significant predictors of app quality. Our findings may facilitate the selection of dietary apps in Korea and provide guidelines for app developers regarding potential improvements in terms of content and quality.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of an Interdisciplinary Preventive Oral Hygiene Program for Children with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Schulz-Weidner Nelly , Logeswaran Thushiha , Jux Christian , Schlenz Maximiliane Amelie , Krämer Norbert , Bulski Julia Camilla
Published: March 2021

It is recognized that children with congenital heart disease (CHD) are predisposed to having poorer oral health. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary preventive oral hygiene program (POHP) for children with CHD. The aim was the reduction of the incidence of dental caries, as well as improvement of oral hygiene. The total number of participants in this study was 107 children with CHD aged between two to six years. At baseline, these children were compared to a healthy control group (HCG) of 101 children of similar age from five preschools in Giessen, Germany. All examinations were carried out before the introduction of a standardized POHP. The Quigley/Hein Plaque- (QHI), Silness/Loe Gingival- (GI) and Gingival Hyperplasia Index (GHI) were determined. Starting with baseline, the described procedures were repeated in the CHD group during two follow-ups after three and six months. In the first examination, compared to controls, CHD children showed a significantly (p < 0.05) poorer oral hygiene (QHI: 2.6; GI: 0.3; GHI: 0.2). All oral hygiene parameters (QHI, GI, GHI) of the CHD group improved significantly over the whole period of the preventive program (p < 0.05). These results demonstrated an improvement in CHD children involved in a standardized POHP. The data with regard to the general health of these risk patients, including prevention of endocarditis, demonstrate the necessity of an interdisciplinary approach between pediatric cardiologists, pediatricians and dentists.
Does Paradoxical Leadership Facilitate Leaders’ Task Performance? A Perspective of Self-Regulation Theory
Authors: Chen Silu , Zhang Yu , Liang Lili , Shen Tao
Published: March 2021

As an emerging Chinese indigenous leadership style, paradoxical leadership has received considerable attention from researchers. Many studies have demonstrated the positive impact of paradoxical leadership on employees, teams, and organizations; however, there is less information on how paradoxical leaders influence their own work outcomes. On the basis of self-regulation theory, in this study, we examined the impact of paradoxical leadership on leaders’ task performance. In addition, we investigated the mediating effects of job crafting and career resilience on this relationship. Through a survey of 120 leaders and 271 of their immediate followers, our empirical analysis found the following: (1) paradoxical leadership was positively related to leaders’ task performance, (2) job crafting mediated the relationship between paradoxical leadership and leaders’ task performance, and (3) career resilience positively moderated the relationship between paradoxical leadership and job crafting, and had an indirect effect on task performance through job crafting. Our model offers novel insights into the paradoxical leadership literature and implications for improving leaders’ job crafting and task performance.