bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exergoeconomic and Exergoenvironmental Analysis of a Novel Power and Cooling Cogeneration System Based on Organic Rankine Cycle and Ejector Refrigeration Cycle
Authors: Tao Jinke , Wang Huitao , Wang Jianjun , Feng Chaojun
Published: October 2022

A novel combined power and refrigeration system is proposed based on organic Rankine and jet refrigeration cycles. The system has a wider application range and can be adjusted to different cooling and evaporation temperatures. To meet the needs of diverse populations, the cooling and evaporation temperature can be as low as −60 degrees Celsius. The genetic algorithm is used to optimize the system, and the proposed system’s energy, exergy, economy, and environment are analyzed under optimal conditions. The results desmonstrate that the exergy damage, environmental impact rate, and exergy economic coefficient of steam turbine are the largest. The system’s exergy damage and the turbine’s investment cost are reduced, and the system’s performance is improved. The condenser has the greatest potential for improvement and should be considered a priority component for system improvement. In addition, the system parameters are analyzed. Higher low-pressure steam generation temperature, dryness of low-pressure steam generator outlet, turbine steam extraction ratio, refrigeration evaporation temperature, and compressor compression ratio are advantageous to system cooling capacity output but not the system net power.High-pressure evaporation temperature is unfavorable to the system’s output of net power and cooling capacity. Still, it is beneficial to improve the thermal and energy efficiency of the system. Under the same operating conditions, compared with the system proposed by predecessors, the system’s net power is increased by 12.52 kW, the thermal efficiency is increased by 4.27%, and the energy efficiency is increased by 2.57%. The system was optimized by taking low-pressure evaporation temperature, high-pressure evaporation temperature, outlet dryness of low-pressure steam generator, suction ratio of steam turbine and compression ratio of compressor as decision variables, and thermal efficiency, exergy efficiency, SUCP and SUEP as objective functions. The low-pressure evaporation temperature, high-pressure evaporation temperature, outlet dryness of low-pressure steam generator, suction ratio of steam turbine, and compression ratio of compressor are 357.99 K, 385.72 K, 0.1, and 0, respectively. The system thermal efficiency is 15.01%, exergy efficiency is 43.18%, SUCP is 45.525USD/MWh, and SUEP is 5122.6 MPTS/MWh.
Reproducible Production of Lithium-Ion Coin Cells
Authors: Luc Paul-Martin , Bauer Simon , Kowal Julia
Published: October 2022

Due to the simple structure and the possibility of manual production, coin cells enable fast and, compared to larger cell formats, an inexpensive examination option in battery research. The comparability and traceability of coin cell structures in literature are only feasible to a limited extent due to the lack of a standard in manual production. Since the findings from the literature are barely building up on each other and have not been repeated, a full factorial Design of Experiments (DoE) was performed to investigate the significance of earlier findings in terms of their influence on the reproducibility of the performance. The parameters studied were the anode-to-cathode ratio, the amount of electrolyte, the spring type and the separator count. To quantify the reproducibility of coin cell assembly, the number of functional cells (here: successful formation followed by 30 cycles) and the empirical coefficient of variation for the performance parameters discharge capacity, internal resistance and coulombic efficiency were compared. The critical parameters found in prior literature have no statistically significant influence on reproducibility when focusing on the number of functional cells. Instead, other uninvestigated parameters seem to influence the system coin cell more. By further examining the parameter settings that produced the most functional cells (≥75% of 8 cells), guidance for constructing coin cells (type R2032) was suggested, and other potential influencing parameters are discussed for further study.
A New Carrier Phase-Shift Modulation Based on Switching the Displacement Angle
Authors: Chen Yugang , Song Shuxiang , Liao Zhixian , Luo Dan , Lin Dong , Wei Duqu
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a new carrier phase-shift (CPS) modulation method based on switching the displacement angle (SDA) is proposed to compromise the harmonic content of the output voltage and the circulating current. It can be used in medium- and low-voltage applications where the AC-side voltage and DC-side current of the modular multilevel converter (MMC) are required to have low harmonic content simultaneously. In this proposed SDA-based CPS modulation, the carrier displacement angle of the MMC with N submodules in each arm is periodically switched between the values of 0 and π/N degrees, so that the harmonic content of the output voltage and the harmonic content of the circulating current will not be in extreme conditions, which occurs when the displacement angle is set to 0 or π/N degrees. The effectiveness of this method has been verified by simulation and experimental results.
Examining the Impact of Energy Price Volatility on Commodity Prices from Energy Supply Chain Perspectives
Authors: Min Hokey
Published: October 2022

Oil has historically been the most significant primary energy source for our daily lives and business activities. However, recent skyrocketing oil prices have been one of the greatest concerns among policymakers, business executives, and the general public due to their impacts on daily necessities, including food, clothing, and automobile transportation. As a result, fast-rising inflation on the global scale is attributed to mounting oil prices. Even though many countries have made a conscious effort to tame oil prices and the subsequent inflation, their efforts are often in vain due to some uncontrollable situations. These situations include the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, where Russia began weaponizing its oil resources and limiting oil supplies to its neighboring European countries. Faced with the current energy crisis, a growing number of policymakers and business executives have attempted to develop energy-induced risk mitigation strategies. With this in mind, the primary purpose of this paper is to investigate what may have caused oil price hikes and to determine how significantly oil prices influence commodity prices. This paper then proposes ways to mitigate energy-induced supply chain risks by analyzing four decades of secondary data obtained from multiple sources.
Landscape Dynamics in a Poverty-Stricken Mountainous City: Land-Use Change, Urban Growth Patterns, and Forest Fragmentation
Authors: Wen Chen , Wang Luqi
Published: October 2022

For poverty-stricken mountainous cities in China, both poverty alleviation and ecological restoration projects are sources of land-use change in urban development. However, the patterns in changes are understudied in light of sustainable forest management. The study aims to explore the characteristics of land-use change in a poverty-stricken mountainous city with a focus on forests. This research proposed a three-step approach to explore the multi-aspect dynamics of land change, including the differences among land-use categories, spatial characteristics of urban expansion, and forest fragmentation. This study investigated Enshi City, China, based on land-use data from 2000, 2010, and 2020. Throughout the two intervals, the gain of water bodies and the loss of grassland were active. Artificial surfaces increased most intensively from 2010 to 2020, with transitions from grassland and cultivated land. Edge-expansion was the dominant type of artificial surface growth. Furthermore, forests had the largest size of gain across the two intervals, and there was a substantial reduction in forest fragmentation in the western part of the city. The findings confirm that recent planning measures are effective in restoring the natural environment. The identified key areas can support sustainable forest management in urban growth.
Unravelling Metagenomics Approach for Microbial Biofuel Production
Authors: Sartaj Km , Patel Alok , Matsakas Leonidas , Prasad Ramasare
Published: October 2022

Renewable biofuels, such as biodiesel, bioethanol, and biobutanol, serve as long-term solutions to fossil fuel depletion. A sustainable approach feedstock for their production is plant biomass, which is degraded to sugars with the aid of microbes-derived enzymes, followed by microbial conversion of those sugars to biofuels. Considering their global demand, additional efforts have been made for their large-scale production, which is ultimately leading breakthrough research in biomass energy. Metagenomics is a powerful tool allowing for functional gene analysis and new enzyme discovery. Thus, the present article summarizes the revolutionary advances of metagenomics in the biofuel industry and enlightens the importance of unexplored habitats for novel gene or enzyme mining. Moreover, it also accentuates metagenomics potentials to explore uncultivable microbiomes as well as enzymes associated with them.
Involvement of NINJ2 Protein in Inflammation and Blood–Brain Barrier Transmigration of Monocytes in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Sorosina Melissa , Peroni Silvia , Mascia Elisabetta , Santoro Silvia , Osiceanu Ana Maria , Ferrè Laura , Clarelli Ferdinando , Giordano Antonino , Cannizzaro Miryam , Martinelli Boneschi Filippo , Filippi Massimo , Esposito Federica
Published: October 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). The migration of immune cells into the CNS is essential for its development, and plasma membrane molecules play an important role in triggering and maintaining the inflammation. We previously identified ninjurin2, a plasma membrane protein encoded by NINJ2 gene, as involved in the occurrence of relapse under Interferon-β treatment in MS patients. The aim of the present study was to investigate the involvement of NINJ2 in inflammatory conditions and in the migration of monocytes through the blood–brain barrier (BBB). We observed that NINJ2 is downregulated in monocytes and in THP-1 cells after stimulation with the pro-inflammatory cytokine LPS, while in hCMEC/D3 cells, which represent a surrogate of the BBB, LPS stimulation increases its expression. We set up a transmigration assay using an hCMEC/D3 transwell-based model, finding a higher transmigration rate of monocytes from MS subjects compared to healthy controls (HCs) in the case of an activated hCMEC/D3 monolayer. Moreover, a positive correlation between NINJ2 expression in monocytes and monocyte migration rate was observed. Overall, our results suggest that ninjurin2 could be involved in the transmigration of immune cells into the CNS in pro-inflammatory conditions. Further experiments are needed to elucidate the exact molecular mechanisms.
The Unique Experience of a New Multidisciplinary Program for 22q Deletion and Duplication Syndromes in a Community Hospital in Florida: A Reaffirmation That Multidisciplinary Care Is Essential for Best Outcomes in These Patients
Authors: Meneses Zaimary , Durant Jenna , Ale Hanadys
Published: October 2022

In 2018, the first 22q11.2 multidisciplinary program in the state of Florida was created at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital following the new paradigm for best care of 22q11.2 deletion patients. Since inauguration, the clinic flourished despite challenges. Our 22q clinic has 149 patients ranging from ages 0–21. From that total, 138 are 22q11.2DS: 74 females and 64 males (44% Hispanics, 35% Caucasians, 11% African American, 3% Asian and 7% multiracial). Eleven patients are in the 22q11.2 duplication group; 7 females and 4 males (50% Hispanics, 30% Caucasians 10% Asian and 10% multiracial). Our multidisciplinary team has grown to include twelve different specialties to better serve our growing patient population and has adapted to the pandemic by offering virtual clinics. Although there are many 22q multidisciplinary clinics worldwide, our clinic has special characteristics. We have an ethnically diverse group of patients and a large team of mostly bilingual providers who are passionate about and have expertise on 22q Deletion/Duplication Syndromes. Our 22q clinic is based at a community hospital and counts on the partnership of local 22q patient support groups. The program is also unique in that it is now expanding to care for adult 22q patients. Our clinic is another live example of how multidisciplinary care is the best way to achieve the most optimal outcomes in 22q patients, and that if there is a passionate and dedicated team of providers willing to collaborate for these patients, a 22q multidisciplinary program can thrive, succeed and grow at a community hospital.
The Relationship between Physiotherapist and Patient: A Qualitative Study on Physiotherapists’ Representations on This Theme
Authors: Monaco Silvia , Renzi Alessia , Galluzzi Beatrice , Mariani Rachele , Di Trani Michela
Published: October 2022

The physiotherapist represents a resource for the psychophysical well-being of an individual. Specific characteristics of the physiotherapist–patient relationship can influence the outcome of rehabilitation. This study aimed to explore physiotherapists’ representations on how they perceive their relationship with their patients, in order to highlight helpful elements in promoting the outcome of the intervention. In this study, 50 physiotherapists (27 females and 23 males; mean age = 42 years; sd = 12.2) participated in an individual interview, conducted remotely via videocall. Socio-demographic and occupational data were collected. The interviews were recorded and transcribed. Texts were analyzed using emotional text mining (ETM). Participants organized their work by means of three categories: (1) work with the patient, in which the physiotherapists described two complementary elements of the therapy, which are the observable-technical aspects of their work and the internal predispositions; (2) the healing process, highlighting the aims of their intervention, including the physical pathology and the relationship with the patients; (3) physiotherapist as a psychologist, describing the attempt to understand patients’ emotional experience to gradually transition to the practical intervention. Understanding the emotional and relational processes that form the basis of physiotherapist practice can contribute to the development of interventions in which the body and the mind can be integrated, resulting in a real person-centered point of view.
Relationship between Patient Experience Scores and Health Insurance
Authors: Markowitz Walter , Kausar Khadeja , Coffield Edward
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: the patient experience may be a performance indicator in value-based reimbursement. Accordingly, providers have an incentive to understand factors that affect their patients’ experiences. This study evaluated the relationship between health insurance type and patient experience ratings. (2) Methods: individual-level demographic, health/healthcare, and patient experience data were extracted from the Full-Year Consolidated Data File of the 2019 Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys. A logistic regression was used to evaluate whether how persons—included in this study’s analytic sample (aged 18 and over with complete covariate information)—rated the healthcare they received from all their providers was associated with their health insurance types controlling for covariates. (3) Results: relative to people 18–64 years of age with private health insurance, people 18–64 years of age without health insurance were less likely to rank their healthcare as a 9 or 10—where a 10 indicates the best possible care—(OR: 0.69; p = 0.015) while people aged 65 years or over with Medicare (OR: 1.34; p = 0.002) or with Medicare/private health insurance (OR: 1.48; p < 0.001) were more likely to rank their healthcare as a 9 or 10. (4) Conclusions: Select health insurance types were associated with how patients rate their healthcare. Stakeholders could use this information to create programs aimed to improve patient experience.
Application of a Deep Learning Approach to Analyze Large-Scale MRI Data of the Spine
Authors: Streckenbach Felix , Leifert Gundram , Beyer Thomas , Mesanovic Anita , Wäscher Hanna , Cantré Daniel , Langner Sönke , Weber Marc-André , Lindner Tobias
Published: October 2022

With its standardized MRI datasets of the entire spine, the German National Cohort (GNC) has the potential to deliver standardized biometric reference values for intervertebral discs (VD), vertebral bodies (VB) and spinal canal (SC). To handle such large-scale big data, artificial intelligence (AI) tools are needed. In this manuscript, we will present an AI software tool to analyze spine MRI and generate normative standard values. 330 representative GNC MRI datasets were randomly selected in equal distribution regarding parameters of age, sex and height. By using a 3D U-Net, an AI algorithm was trained, validated and tested. Finally, the machine learning algorithm explored the full dataset (n = 10,215). VB, VD and SC were successfully segmented and analyzed by using an AI-based algorithm. A software tool was developed to analyze spine-MRI and provide age, sex, and height-matched comparative biometric data. Using an AI algorithm, the reliable segmentation of MRI datasets of the entire spine from the GNC was possible and achieved an excellent agreement with manually segmented datasets. With the analysis of the total GNC MRI dataset with almost 30,000 subjects, it will be possible to generate real normative standard values in the future.
Effect of Dapagliflozin on Exercise Capacity and Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Nazer Rakan , Albratty Mohammed , Aldhahi Monira I. , Alqurashy Maiasa , Halawi Maryam A. , Albarrati Ali
Published: October 2022

Heart failure (HF) is a serious disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, with a high rate of exercise intolerance, rehospitalization, and death. HF has many underlying causes, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which corresponds with high mortality and short survival among patients with HF. Numerous studies have shown the crucial role of gliflozins, a new generation of blood glucose-lowering medications, in cardiac remodeling, with beneficial impacts on exercise capacity and cardiovascular (CV) mortality, even in non-diabetic individuals. The foundational CV-protective frameworks of these agents are intricate and multifaceted. Dapagliflozin is a new widely used drug and a valuable alternative for patients with T2DM and CV risk factors. Dapagliflozin was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019 to lower the risk of HF hospitalization in patients with concurrent T2DM and CV disease or associated risk factors. However, the effects of this new drug on exercise capacity and CV risk still need to be elucidated. The primary objective of this review is to summarize the effect of dapagliflozin on exercise capacity and CV risk in patients with HF.
A Case Study of Swine Wastewater Treatment via Electrochemical Oxidation by Ti4O7 Anode
Authors: Wan Hongyou , Wang Ruifeng , Wang Beibei , Zhang Kehao , Shi Huanhuan , Wang Hailong
Published: October 2022

With the rapid development of breeding industry, the efficient treatment of dramatically increasing swine wastewater is gradually becoming urgent. In particular, the development of application technologies suitable for the relatively small piggeries is critical due to the time cost and space requirements of conventional biological methods. In this study, Electrochemical oxidation (EO) was selected to systematically explore the treatment performance of three different swine wastewaters by Ti4O7 anode. It was observed that the colors changed from dark brown to light yellow after 60 min treatment at 50 mA/cm2, and the removal rates of turbidity and suspended solids ranged from 89.36% to 93.65% and 81.31% to 92.55%, respectively. The chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and total phosphorus (TP) of all the three swine wastewaters were simultaneously removed to a very low concentration in 120 min, especially for sample III, 61 ± 9 mg/L of COD, 6.6 ± 0.4 mg/L of NH3-N and 5.7 ± 1.1 mg/L of TP, which met the Discharge Standard of Pollutants for Livestock and Poultry Breeding (GB 18596-2001). Moreover, 70.93%–85.37% mineralization rates were also achieved in 120 min, confirming that EO treatment by Ti4O7 could efficiently remove the organic matters in wastewater. Excitation–emission matrix (EEM) and UV-vis spectrum characterization results further proved that aromatic compounds and macromolecules in wastewater were rapidly removed, which played important roles in the mineralization processes. The findings here provided an efficient and environment-friendly technology for swine wastewater treatment.
A Systematic Approach in Developing Management Workforce Readiness for Digital Health Transformation in Healthcare
Authors: Brommeyer Mark , Liang Zhanming
Published: October 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has sped up digital health transformation across the health sectors to enable innovative health service delivery. Such transformation relies on competent managers with the capacity to lead and manage. However, the health system has not adopted a holistic approach in addressing the health management workforce development needs, with many hurdles to overcome. The objectives of this paper are to present the findings of a three-step approach in understanding the current hurdles in developing a health management workforce that can enable and maximize the benefits of digital health transformation, and to explore ways of overcoming such hurdles. Methods: A three-step, systematic approach was undertaken, including an Australian digital health policy documentary analysis, an Australian health service management postgraduate program analysis, and a scoping review of international literatures. Results: The main findings of the three-step approach confirmed the strategies required in developing a digitally enabled health management workforce and efforts in enabling managers in leading and managing in the digital health space. Conclusions: With the ever-changing landscape of digital health, leading and managing in times of system transformation requires a holistic approach to develop the necessary health management workforce capabilities and system-wide capacity. The proposed framework, for overall health management workforce development in the digital health era, suggests that national collaboration is necessary to articulate a more coordinated, consistent, and coherent set of policy guidelines and the system, policy, educational, and professional organizational enablers that drive a digital health focused approach across all the healthcare sectors, in a coordinated and contextual manner.
Acute Exposure to Simulated Nocturnal Train Noise Leads to Impaired Sleep Quality and Endothelial Dysfunction in Young Healthy Men and Women: A Sex-Specific Analysis
Authors: Hahad Omar , Herzog Johannes , Röösli Martin , Schmidt Frank P. , Daiber Andreas , Münzel Thomas
Published: October 2022

A series of human field studies demonstrated that simulated nocturnal traffic noise exposure impaired sleep quality and endothelial function, which could be significantly improved after intake of vitamin C in case of endothelial function. However, it remains unclear whether these changes follow a sex-specific pattern. Thus, we aimed to analyze the effect of simulated nocturnal train noise exposure on sleep quality, endothelial function and its associated changes after vitamin C intake, and other hemodynamic and biochemical parameters in young healthy men and women. We used data from a randomized crossover study, wherein 70 healthy volunteers (50% women) were each exposed to one control pattern (regular background noise) and two different train noise scenarios (30 or 60 train noise events per night, with average sound pressure levels of 52 and 54 dB(A), respectively, and peak sound level of 73–75 dB(A)) in their homes for three nights. After each night, participants visited the study center for the measurement of endothelial function as well as other hemodynamic and biochemical parameters. Sleep quality measured via self-report was significantly impaired after noise 30 and noise 60 nights in both men and women (p < 0.001 vs. control). Likewise, endothelial function measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was significantly impaired after noise 30 and noise 60 nights in both men and women (p < 0.001 vs. control). While in women, vitamin C intake significantly improved FMD after both noise 30 and noise 60 study nights compared to control nights, no significant changes were observed in men. Exposure to simulated nocturnal train noise impairs sleep quality and endothelial function in both men and women, whereas a significant improvement of endothelial function after noise exposure and vitamin C intake could only be observed in women. These findings suggest for the first time that in men other mechanisms such as oxidative stress causing endothelial dysfunction may come into play.
Life and Leisure Activities following Stroke or Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA): An Observational, Multi-Centre, 6-Month Follow-Up Study
Authors: Reeves Matthew J. , Thetford Clare , McMahon Naoimh , Forshaw Denise , Brown Chris , Joshi Miland , Watkins Caroline
Published: October 2022

Objective: To examine changes in leisure participation following stroke/transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and explore its relationship to modifiable and non-modifiable participant characteristics. Design: An observational study design with self-report questionnaires collected at two time points (baseline and 6-months). Setting: The study was conducted across 21 hospital sites in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Participants: Participants were aged 18+ and had experienced a first or recurrent stroke or TIA and had a post-stroke/TIA modified Rankin score (mRS) of ≤3. Procedure: Research practitioners at each site approached potential participants. Individuals who agreed to participate completed a baseline questionnaire whilst an inpatient or at a first post-stroke/TIA clinic appointment. A follow-up questionnaire was posted to participants with a freepost return envelope. Two questionnaires were developed that collected demographic information, pre-stroke/TIA mRS, social circumstances (e.g., employment situation) and incorporated the shortened Nottingham Leisure Questionnaire (sNLQ). Results: The study recruited eligible participants (N = 3295); 2000 participants returned questionnaires at follow-up. Data showed three participant variables were significant predictors of engagement in leisure activities post-stroke/TIA: age, sex, and deprivation decile. There was an overall decline in the number and variety of leisure activities, with an average loss of 2.2 activities following stroke/TIA. Only one activity, “exercise/fitness” saw an increase in engagement from baseline to follow-up; watching TV remained stable, whilst participation in all other activities reduced between 10% and 40% with an average activity engagement reduction of 22%. Conclusions: Some groups experienced a greater reduction in activities than others—notably older participants, female participants, and those living in a low socioeconomic area. Registration: researchregistry4607. Strengths and limitations of this study: 1. This is the largest-ever study to survey life and leisure activity engagement following stroke/TIA. 2. Survey responses were self-reported retrospectively and, therefore, may have been misreported, or misremembered. 3. Despite the large cohort, there were few participants, and so respondents, from ethnic minority groups.
Using Core Elements of Health and Safety Management Systems to Support Worker Well-Being during Technology Integration
Authors: Haas Emily J. , Cauda Emanuele
Published: October 2022

Research studying the intersection of occupational safety and health (OSH) and direct reading and sensor technologies (DRST) is sparse, with a specific lack of research available that has empirically considered ways that DRST may impact worker well-being. In this paper, the authors examine how organizations could utilize core elements of their health and safety management system (HSMS) to coordinate and execute DRST in the workplace to support worker well-being. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) researchers developed a 39-item questionnaire targeting OSH professionals to understand attitudes toward DRST and the current and intended uses of DRST at their place of employment. Eighty-eight OSH professionals completed the questionnaire between August and December 2021. Descriptive results of the study sample are provided but the focus of the study applies the open-ended responses to two questions, which was deductively analyzed. Descriptive results show that reliability and validity of data was a top concern while the open-ended qualitative feedback revealed three primary themes: (1) acceptability and trust in technology; (2) ease of use; and (3) support and guidelines. Results provide an opening to use core HSMS elements (i.e., management commitment and leadership, communication and coordination, and employee involvement) during DRST integration to demonstrate support for workers during times of ambiguity and change.
Work-Related Factors and Lung Cancer Survival: A Population-Based Study in Switzerland (1990–2014)
Authors: Bovio Nicolas , Grzebyk Michel , Arveux Patrick , Bulliard Jean-Luc , Chiolero Arnaud , Fournier Evelyne , Germann Simon , Konzelmann Isabelle , Maspoli Manuela , Rapiti Elisabetta , Guseva Canu Irina
Published: October 2022

While previous Swiss studies have demonstrated differences in lung cancer mortality between occupational groups, no estimates are available on the association of occupation-related factors with lung cancer survival. This study aimed at determining whether occupation or work-related factors after diagnosis affect lung cancer survival. We used cancer registry records to identify lung cancer patients diagnosed between 1990 and 2014 in western Switzerland (n = 5773) matched with the Swiss National Cohort. The effect of occupation, the skill level required for the occupation, and the socio-professional category on 5-year lung cancer survival was assessed using non-parametric and parametric methods, controlling for histological type and tumour stage. We found that the net survival varied across skill levels and that the lowest skill level was associated with worse survival in both men and women. In the parametric models with minimal adjustment, we identified several occupational groups at higher risk of mortality compared to the reference category, particularly among men. After adjustment for histological type of lung cancer and tumour stage at diagnosis, most hazard ratios remained higher than 1, though non-statistically significant. Compared to top managers and self-employed workers, workers in paid employment without specific information on occupation were identified as the most at-risk socio-professional category in nearly all models. As this study was conducted using a relatively small sample and limited set of covariates, further studies are required, taking into account smoking habits and administrated cancer treatments. Information on return to work and working conditions before and after lung cancer diagnosis will also be highly valuable for analysing their effect on net lung cancer survival in large nationwide or international studies. Such studies are essential for informing health and social protection systems, which should guarantee appropriate work conditions for cancer survivors, beneficial for their quality of life and survival.
Lessons Learned from an Attempted Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial for Improvement of Chronic Pain-Associated Disability in Green Professions: Long-Term Effectiveness of a Guided Online-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (PACT-A)
Authors: Braun Lina , Terhorst Yannik , Titzler Ingrid , Freund Johanna , Thielecke Janika , Ebert David Daniel , Baumeister Harald
Published: October 2022

Musculoskeletal symptoms are increased in farmers, whereas the prevalence of chronified pain is unknown. Online interventions based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) have shown encouraging results in the general population, representing a promising approach for reducing pain interference in green professions (i.e., farmers, foresters, gardeners). We conducted a pragmatic RCT comparing a guided ACT-based online intervention to enhanced treatment-as-usual in entrepreneurs, contributing spouses, family members and pensioners in green professions with chronic pain (CPG: ≥grade II, ≥6 months). Recruitment was terminated prematurely after 2.5 years at N = 89 (of planned N = 286). Assessments were conducted at 9 weeks (T1), 6 months (T2) and 12 months (T3) post-randomization. The primary outcome was pain interference (T1). The secondary outcomes encompassed pain-, health- and intervention-related variables. No treatment effect for reduction of pain interference was found at T1 (β = −0.16, 95%CI: −0.64–0.32, p = 0.256). Improvements in cognitive fusion, pain acceptance, anxiety, perceived stress and quality of life were found only at T3. Intervention satisfaction as well as therapeutic and technological alliances were moderate, and uptake and adherence were low. Results are restricted by low statistical power due to recruitment issues, high study attrition and low intervention adherence, standing in contrast to previous studies. Further research is warranted regarding the use of ACT-based online interventions for chronic pain in this occupational group. Trial registration: German Clinical Trial Registration: DRKS00014619. Registered: 16 April 2018.
A Survey of 1000 Respondents on the Polish Population’s Knowledge and Attitudes about Tissue/Organ Donation and Transplantation in Times of Allogeneic Tissue Shortage
Authors: Hepa Anna , Łabuś Wojciech , Szatan Magdalena , Gierek Marcin , Kamiński Artur , Szyluk Karol , Niemiec Paweł , Glik Justyna , Kitala Diana
Published: October 2022

Tissue-engineered human allogeneic skin grafts retrieved from a deceased donor play an important role in the therapy of extensive and deeply burned patients. However, there is a vital deficit of allogeneic skin donors, and the reserves of human allogeneic skin grafts are not sufficient. The goal of this work was to analyze the level of knowledge and attitudes of Polish society in the field of transplantation, with particular emphasis on allogeneic skin transplantation. The study used a self-made questionnaire comprised of 23 questions. 1000 respondents took part in this research. The respondents were a diverse group in terms of age, sex, education, and place of residence. The obtained results show a general positive attitude of the respondents towards the idea of transplantology. However, people with lower education presented a more negative attitude towards the donation of tissues and organs. Additionally younger people were not able to clearly declare readiness for organ procurement. What is more data analysis revealed certain gaps in more detailed knowledge and surprising attitudes. In that respect, the lack of awareness about the criteria for determining brain death could be mentioned. There was also a lack of acceptance for skin procurement in specific population groups. It can therefore be concluded that a key role in the success of the idea of transplantation in Poland is the broad and systematic education of the society.
Spatial Pattern, Sources Identification, and Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in a Typical Soda Soil from Bayannur, Northwestern China
Authors: Zhang Shuncun , Wang Tao , Wang Hao , Kang Qiangqiang , Zhou Qian , Chen Bo
Published: October 2022

Soil is an important natural resource in the agricultural areas of northwest China. The heavy metal concentration and ecological risk assessments are crucial for food safety and human health. This work collected 35 surface soil samples and focused on a typical soda soil quality of the Hetao Plain in Bayannur, which is an important grain production base in northern China. The concentration and composition of heavy metal (arsenic (As), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn)), soluble salts, total organic carbon (TOC), and minerals of the surface soils were analyzed to assess the biotoxicity, ecological risk, sources, and influencing factors of heavy metals in these soda soil from this region. The enrichment factors (EF) showed that As, Co, Cu, and Pb were not contaminated in these soils, while Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni, and Zn were lightly contaminated. The index of geoaccumulation (Igeo) for the soda soils indicated that Co and Pb were uncontaminated, and Cr, Cd, Ni, Zn, Hg, Cu, and As were lightly contaminated. The potential ecological risk index (RI) indicated there were no or low risks for As, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn. Although the concentrations of Cd and Hg in the soil were low, the two heavy metals exhibited moderate–high ecological risk because they have high biological toxicity. Cd in the soils from Hetao Plain in Bayannur is mainly exchangeable and reducible fractions. The other heavy metals in these soda soils are mainly in residue fraction, implying that their mobility is low and not easily absorbed and used by plants. Heavy metal fractions, principal component analysis (PCA), and correlation analysis showed that As, Co, Cr, Cu, and Pb were mainly from natural sources, while Ni, Cd, and Zn were mainly from anthropogenic discharge-related irrigation, fertilizers, and pesticide application, and Hg was mainly from winter snowfall in the study area. Naturally sourced metal elements have obvious sediment properties, and their adsorption by clay minerals and coupling with organic matter along with sediment transport sorting. The salinity and pH of soda soils in the study area have a highly positive correlation, hence the influence of factors on the concentrations of soil heavy metals are consistent. For anthropogenically imported heavy metals, increasing salinity and pH promote the precipitation of metallic elements in water. Cd is present as an exchangeable and reducible fraction, while Ni and Zn are mainly sequestered by organic matter and clay minerals.
How School Travel Affects Children’s Psychological Well-Being and Academic Achievement in China
Authors: Ding Pengxiang , Feng Suwei
Published: October 2022

Previous research on the role of school travel in children’s well-being (WB) has paid little attention to developing countries. Using national survey data across China, this study examines how children’s psychological well-being (PWB) and academic performance differ across commute duration and mode among urban, rural, and urban fringe areas. Our findings show that commute times are significantly negatively associated with children’s PWB and academic achievements, and this correlation varies across areas. Children living in the urban fringe have the longest average one-way commuting time (18.6 min), but they have a better acceptance of longer commuting duration, whereas commuting time is more influential in the city center and rural areas. Regarding travel mode, walking to school is positively associated with PWB in the center area, while bicycles and public transport positively affect the rural student scores. Results from quantile regression show that students on the lower quantiles of the conditional distribution of PWB tend to suffer more than the others when commuting time increases; students with middle scores respond similarly to marginal changes in commuting time. Recommendations for urban planners and policymakers to enhance child WB include fostering school-home balance, improving public transit services, and investing in pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure for those vulnerable groups.
Maternal Characteristics and Socio-Economic Factors as Determinants of Low Birth Weight in Indonesia: Analysis of 2017 Indonesian Demographic and Health Survey (IDHS)
Authors: Wulandari Fatqiatul , Mahmudiono Trias , Rifqi Mahmud Aditya , Helmyati Siti , Dewi Mira , Yuniar Cindra Tri
Published: October 2022

Although low birth weight (LBW) is still a major health problem in Indonesia, studies about determinants of LBW with large sample sizes are still limited. This study aimed to examine the association between LBW and maternal characteristics, as well as socio-economic backgrounds in Indonesia. A secondary analysis of 2017 Indonesian Demographic and Health Survey (IDHS) was conducted, specifically using the questionnaires for women of childbearing age. A bivariate chi-square analysis and a multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed. As many as 6.7% of infants were born with LBW. In terms of maternal characteristics, women who gave birth to twins were 20.30 times more likely to have infants with LBW (p < 0.001). Women with birth intervals of <24 and ≥24 months were likely to have LBW infants (p < 0.05). Complications during pregnancy were also associated with LBW (1.99 times higher than women with no complications) (p < 0.001). In terms of socio-economic factors, women with higher education and higher wealth index were less likely to give birth to infants with LBW. Additionally, marital status and type of residence were also significantly associated with a higher risk of LBW. In conclusion, LBW was associated with maternal characteristics and socio-economic backgrounds among women of childbearing age in Indonesia, including twin births, birth interval, and pregnancy complications as well as educational attainment, wealth index, marital status, and type of residence.
Examining the Effects of Visibility and Time Headway on the Takeover Risk during Conditionally Automated Driving
Authors: Peng Haorong , Chen Feng , Chen Peiyan
Published: October 2022

The objective of this study is to examine the effects of visibility and time headway on the takeover performance in L3 automated driving. Both non-critical and critical driving scenarios were considered by changing the acceleration value of the leading vehicle. A driving simulator experiment with 18 driving scenarios was conducted and 30 participants complete the experiment. Based on the data obtained from the experiment, the takeover reaction time, takeover control time, and takeover responses were analyzed. The minimum Time-To-Collision (Min TTC) was used to measure the takeover risk level and a binary logit model for takeover risk levels was estimated. The results indicate that the visibility distance (VD) has no significant effects on the takeover control time, while the time headway (THW) and the acceleration of the leading vehicle (ALV) could affect the takeover control time significantly; most of the participants would push the gas pedal to accelerate the ego vehicle as the takeover response under non-critical scenarios, while braking was the dominant takeover response for participants in critical driving scenarios; decreasing the TCT and taking the appropriate takeover response would reduce the takeover risk significantly, so it is suggested that the automation system should provide the driver with the urgency of the situation ahead and the tips for takeover responses by audio prompts or the head-up display. This study is expected to facilitate the overall understanding of the effects of visibility and time headway on the takeover performance in conditionally automated driving.
Ophthalmology Practice and Social Media Influences: A Patients Based Cross-Sectional Study among Social Media Users
Authors: ALBalawi Hani B. , Alraddadi Osama
Published: October 2022

Many physicians consider social media a good tool for building their brands and attracting patients. However, limited data exist on patients’ perceptions of the value of social media in ophthalmology. Therefore, our objective was to examine how social media influences patients when choosing an ophthalmologist among social media users, and people’s behaviors toward ophthalmologists’ social media accounts. This was a cross-sectional study including 1086 participants. Males represented 77.3% of the sample. The majority of the participants (71.3%) were aged between 25 and 54 years. Regarding social media sites frequently checked, Twitter ranked first (75.3%), followed by Snapchat (52.8%) and YouTube (48.7%). The majority (92.3%) used social media sites at all times of the day. Concerning the importance of ophthalmologists’ social media sites, around 36.3% considered it either very or extremely important. As regards the important factors about an ophthalmologist’s social media site from participants’ perspectives, medical information written by the ophthalmologist (45.5%) and recommendations by friends (45.4%) were the most common reasons. Around 21% of females, compared to 16.8% of males, perceived the ophthalmologists’ social media sites as extremely important, p = 0.041. A quarter of participants aged between 18 and 24 years, compared to only 5.5% of those aged 65 and above, perceived the ophthalmologists’ social media sites as extremely important, p = 0.018. In conclusion, a considerable proportion of the people who used social media described ophthalmologists’ social media sites as very/extremely important in their choice of an ophthalmologist.
Visualizing the Knowledge Domain in Urban Soundscape: A Scientometric Analysis Based on CiteSpace
Authors: Yang Jiaxi , Lu Hong
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study was to identify the main research themes and knowledge structures in the field of urban soundscape. With the continuous expansion of research work in the field of urban soundscape, it has become necessary to carry out a systematic analysis. CiteSpace was used to conduct an information visualization analysis of high-quality literature related to urban soundscape research in the WoS database from 1976 to 2021. The results revealed the following: (1) In terms of research content, research hotspots center on noise, perception, and quality, while focusing on theory and methodology. (2) In terms of research methods, the Perceptual Restorative Soundscape Scale has gradually become the main method of soundscape research. With the development of sound acquisition technology and sound simulation technology, the soundscape perception model will undergo an iterative process of updating. (3) In terms of research objects, most of the research focuses on the soundscape of outdoor environments (such as urban parks, tourist attractions, and historical blocks) together with the influences and preferences for different types of soundscapes. The research results can provide reference for research and planning as well as the design practice of urban soundscape.
Active Monitoring of Residential Radon in Rome: A Pilot Study
Authors: Soldati Gaia , Ciaccio Maria Grazia , Piersanti Antonio , Cannelli Valentina , Galli Gianfranco
Published: October 2022

We present an overview of the potential of active monitoring techniques to investigate the many factors affecting the concentration of radon in houses. We conducted two experiments measuring radon concentration in 25 apartments in Rome and suburban areas for two weeks and in three apartments in the historic center for several months. The reference levels of 300 and 100 Bq/m3 are overcome in 17% and 60% of the cases, respectively, and these percentages rise to 20% and 76% for average overnight radon (more relevant for residents’ exposure). Active detectors allowed us to identify seasonal radon fluctuations, dependent on indoor-to-outdoor temperature, and how radon travels from the ground to upper floors. High levels of radon are not limited to the lowest floors when the use of heating and ventilation produces massive convection of air. Lifestyle habits also reflect in the different values of gas concentration measured on different floors of the same building or in distinct rooms of the same apartment, which cannot be ascribed to the characteristics of the premises. However, the finding that high residential radon levels tend to concentrate in the historic center proves the influence of factors such as building age, construction materials, and geogenic radon.