bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pattern Transfer Printing by Controlling the Deposition Angle to Form Various Patterns
Authors: Park Tae Wan , Park Woon Ik
Published: February 2020

The nanofabrication of modern electronic devices requires advanced nanopatterning technologies. To fabricate desirable nanodevices with excellent device performance, controlling the shape and dimension of the pattern is very important. However, to achieve more facile and faster device fabrication, with better pattern resolution, pattern-tunability, process simplicity, and cost-effectiveness, some remaining challenges still need to be resolved. In this study, we introduce a simple and practical method to generate various patterns using a nanotransfer printing (nTP) process. To obtain functional materials with diverse shapes on a polymer replica pattern, in the nTP process we controlled the angle of deposition before transfer-printing. First, we obtained three different pattern shapes with a thickness of ~ 30 nm on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) replica patterns. Then, the deposited functional patterns on the PMMA patterns are successfully transfer-printed onto SiO2/Si substrates, showing line, L-shape line, and concavo-convex patterns. We observed the pattern shapes of the patterns by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical microscope. Moreover, we systemically analyzed how to form patterns of various shapes using one kind of master mold. We expect that this simple approach will be widely used to fabricate various useful patterns for electronic device applications.
‘The Piracies of Some Little Privateers’: Language, Law and Maritime Violence in the Seventeenth-Century Caribbean
Authors: Coakley John
Published: February 2020

Prior to the eighteenth century, the words ‘pirate’ and ‘privateer’ had no comprehensive English legal meanings. Scholars today who attempt to determine who in history was a ‘pirate’ run afoul of this language problem; this article aims to clarify it by tracing the etymology of ‘privateer’ in late seventeenth-century English Jamaica, where the word saw a great deal of use. Seeing Jamaica as a laboratory for language use and legal development, rather than simply a site of problematic lawlessness within the empire, it reconsiders the consolidation of English state power at the turn of the century.

This article argues that ‘pirate’, an ancient but ill-defined word in early modern England, generally referred to a sea robber who acted unlawfully, but that much lawful sea raiding also occurred under various names. In about 1660, the word ‘privateer’ was born, first taking root in the new English colony of Jamaica, where it referred to the island's growing community of private seafarers. After an Anglo-Spanish treaty in 1670, Jamaicans gradually conflated ‘privateer’ and ‘pirate’, a process that culminated in a law that promised death to both. The law spread from the periphery to the metropolitan centre, but English imperial officials, prompted by the events of the Glorious Revolution, repurposed the Jamaican words, clarifying and distinguishing them to exert greater control over state violence.
HUBUNGAN INTENSITAS PENGGUNAAN GAME ONLINE TERHADAP RESIKO KEJADIAN DE QUERVAIN SYNDROME PADA PEMAIN GAMES ONLINE SMARTPHONE DI KOTA MAKASSAR
Authors: Hardiyanty Nur , Am.Ramli Nurfatri Ramadani , Tang Aco
Published: February 2020

ABSTRAK

 

De Quervain Syndrome merupakan salah satu repetitive strain injury yang melibatkan aktivitas ibu jari yang berulang. Salah satu tanda dan gejala yang sering dirasakan oleh penderita De Quervain Syndrome adalah nyeri pada ibu jari dan pembengkakan pada sisi ibu jari. Penggunaan game online pada smartphone secara tidak langsung dapat meningkatkan aktivitas pada ibu jari. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan intensitas penggunaan game online smartphone terhadapat kejadian De Quervain Syndrome pada pemain game online smartphone di kota Makassar. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskiptif dengan desain penelitian cross sectional. Teknik pengambilan sampel yaitu Purposive Non-Random Sampling. Data sampel yang mengalami kejadian De Quervain Syndrome diperoleh melalui pengambilan form data responden dan pemeriksaan finkelstein test dan WHAT test. Analisis data menggunakan uji Spearman’s rho dan analisis bivariat korelasional. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat hubungan lemah namun bermakna antara intensitas penggunaan game online smartphone dan kejadian De Quervain Syndrome (p=0.049).

 

Kata Kunci: Game online smartphone, De Quervain, Finkelstein Test,WHAT Test

 

ABSTRACT

De Quervain Syndrome is a repetitive strain injury that involves repeated thumb activity. The sign and symptom that is often felt by people with De Quervain Syndrome are thumb pain and swelling on the side of the thumb. The use of online games on smartphones can indirectly increase activity on the thumb. This study aims to determine the relationship between the intensity of the use of smartphone online games to the incidence of De Quervain Syndrome in smartphone online game players in the city of Makassar. This study is an descriptive study with a cross sectional research design. The sampling technique is Purposive Non-Random Sampling. Sample data that experienced De Quervain Syndrome were obtained through taking respondent data form and finkelstein test and WHAT test. Data analysis using Spearman’s rho test and correlational bivariate analysis. The results of the study showed  that There is a weak but significant relationship between the intensity of the use of online smartphone games with the incidence of De Quervain Syndrome in smartphone online game users (p=0.049).

 

Keywords: Smartphone Online Game, De Quervain, Finkelstein Test,WHAT Test
ULTRASOUND, TENS DAN KINESIOTAPING MENINGKATKAN AKTIFITAS FUNGSIONAL PADA OSTEOARTHRITIS LUTUT
Authors: Pramita Indah
Published: February 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) Lutut adalah gangguan degeneratif pada sendi lutut yang megakibatkan nyeri dan gangguan gerak. Timbulnya nyeri tersebut mengakibatkan penurunan aktifitas fungsional pada pasien OA lutut. Penanganan Fisioterapi di Rumah Sakit selama ini masih menggunakan modalitas alat dengan Ultrasound dan TENS untuk menurunkan nyeri. Kinesiotaping (KT) adalah sebuah alternatif terapi dengan menggunakan plester elastis untuk memberikan stimulasi pada otot yang mengalami penurunan kekuatan. Dengan adanya peningkatan kekuatan otot pada pasien OA lutut diharapkan mampu menurunkan nyeri serta meningkatkan aktifitas fungsional pada pasien OA lutut. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui efek pemberian Ultrasound, TENS, dan kinesiotaping dalam meningkatkan aktifitas fungsional pada osteoarthritis lutut. Penelitian ini menggunakan jenis penelitian pre eksperimental dengan desain pre tes post tes control group desain. Sampel dalam penelitian ini adalah pasien oateoarthritis lutut yang disaring berdasar kriteria inklusi, eksklusi yaitu 20 sampel, dibagi menjadi 2 kelompok. Uji analisis antar kelompok menggunakan uji independent t test untuk melihat perbedaan antar kelompok. Hasil penelitian didapatkan nilai p=0,001 (p<0.05) yang membuktikan pemberian Ultrasound, TENS dan Kinesiotaping lebih  meningkatkan aktifitas fungsional pada osteoarthritis lutut.

Kata Kunci: Osteoarthritis, Kinesiotaping, Aktifitas Fungsional
REGARDING STRATEGY TO IMPROVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF ROAD TRANSPORT
Authors: Redziuk Anatolii , Klymenko Oleksii
Published: February 2020

The substantiation for the necessity for development and proposals for the formation of a state strategy for improving an energy efficiency of road transport are presented. They are based in particular on the results of retrospective analysis and projections of energy consumption and СО2 emissions by road transport in Ukraine for the period up to 2050 under different scenarios of socio-economic development and variants of state regulation in this area. The international obligations of Ukraine in this area are considered within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and in accordance with the provisions of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union, the European Atomic Energy Community and their member states. It is proved that these international obligations of Ukraine will not be fulfilled without the prompt introduction of a set of effective measures to reduce specific energy consumption in road transport sector of the economy. And hence there is a need for corresponding state strategy, which should determine in which way, at the expense of which resources, and at what price will Ukraine guarantee fulfillment of specified engagements at a stated time. The results of the reconstruction of energy consumption, CO2 and "local" toxic pollutants emissions in Ukraine by road transport during 1990-2015 are presented. Estimates of reserves (potential) for reduction of energy consumption by road transport in Ukraine are given. The analysis (structure) of possible measures to reduce energy consumption by road transport is given. Economic restrictions on investing in the development of road transport infrastructure and introduction of the latest technologies are considered. The proposals regarding solving the problem of accelerated renewal of Ukrainian road transport fleet on more energy efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles are outlined. Keywords: road transport, energy efficiency.
There Is (Scientific) Strength in Numbers: A Comprehensive Quantitation of Fc Gamma Receptor Numbers on Human and Murine Peripheral Blood Leukocytes
Authors: Kerntke Christina , Nimmerjahn Falk , Biburger Markus
Published: February 2020

Antibodies are essential mediators of immunological defense mechanisms, are clinically used as therapeutic agents, but are also functionally involved in various immune-mediated disorders. Whereas IgG antibodies accomplish some of their biological tasks autonomously, many functions depend on their binding to activating and inhibitory Fcγ receptors (FcγR). From a qualitative point of view expression patterns of FcγR on immunologically relevant cell types are well-characterized both for mice and humans. Surprisingly, however, there is only quite limited information available on actual quantities of FcγR expressed by the different leukocyte populations. In this study we provide a comprehensive data set assessing quantitatively how many individual human and mouse FcγRs are expressed on B cells, NK cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, basophils and both classical, and non-classical monocytes under steady state conditions. Moreover, among human donors we found two groups with different expression levels of the inhibitory FcγRIIb on monocytes which appears to correlate with haplotypes of the activating FcγRIIIa.
Adaptive Scatter Search to Solve the Minimum Connected Dominating Set Problem for Efficient Management of Wireless Networks
Authors: Hedar Abdel-Rahman , Abdulaziz Shada N. , Sewisy Adel A. , El-Sayed Gamal A.
Published: February 2020

An efficient routing using a virtual backbone (VB) network is one of the most significant improvements in the wireless sensor network (WSN). One promising method for selecting this subset of network nodes is by finding the minimum connected dominating set (MCDS), where the searching space for finding a route is restricted to nodes in this MCDS. Thus, finding MCDS in a WSN provides a flexible low-cost solution for the problem of event monitoring, particularly in places with limited or dangerous access to humans as is the case for most WSN deployments. In this paper, we proposed an adaptive scatter search (ASS-MCDS) algorithm that finds the near-optimal solution to this problem. The proposed method invokes a composite fitness function that aims to maximize the solution coverness and connectivity and minimize its cardinality. Moreover, the ASS-MCDS methods modified the scatter search framework through new local search and solution update procedures that maintain the search objectives. We tested the performance of our proposed algorithm using different benchmark-test-graph sets available in the literature. Experiments results show that our proposed algorithm gave good results in terms of solution quality.
Combined Effects of Water Depth and Velocity on the Accelerometric Parameters Measured in Horses Exercised on a Water Treadmill
Authors: Saitua Aritz , Becero Mireya , Argüelles David , Castejón-Riber Cristina , Sánchez de Medina Antonia , Satué Katy , Muñoz Ana
Published: February 2020

Horse trainers often claim that exercise on a water treadmill (WT) leads to a greater muscle power and development compared to terrestrial locomotion, because of the greater viscosity of water compared to air. This research assesses locomotor changes measured with accelerometers fixed in the pectoral region and in the sacrum midline in six horses subjected to exercise sessions of 40 min duration on a WT without water (DT), and with water at the depth of fetlock (FET) and carpus (CAR) with velocities of 6 km/h and at the depth of stifle (STF) at 5 km/h. Another five horses performed the same exercise sessions but always with a velocity of 5 km/h. Total power increased from DT to FET and CAR, without significant differences between CAR and STF depths when the velocity was the same. However, a significant decrease was found when the velocity was reduced. The greater total power with water was distributed mainly to the dorsoventral axis, with significant increases in dorsoventral displacement and dorsoventral power. Both parameters were significantly affected by velocity and water depth. In conclusion, total and dorsoventral powers increased with velocity and water depth, leading to reduction in longitudinal and mediolateral power, during exercise on a WT.
Molecular Changes Induced by Oxidative Stress that Impair Human Sperm Motility
Authors: Nowicka-Bauer Karolina , Nixon Brett
Published: February 2020

A state of oxidative stress (OS) and the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the male reproductive tract are strongly correlated with infertility. While physiological levels of ROS are necessary for normal sperm functioning, elevated ROS production can overwhelm the cell’s limited antioxidant defenses leading to dysfunction and loss of fertilizing potential. Among the deleterious pleiotropic impacts arising from OS, sperm motility appears to be particularly vulnerable. Here, we present a mechanistic account for how OS contributes to altered sperm motility profiles. In our model, it is suggested that the abundant polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) residing in the sperm membrane serve to sensitize the male germ cell to ROS attack by virtue of their ability to act as substrates for lipid peroxidation (LPO) cascades. Upon initiation, LPO leads to dramatic remodeling of the composition and biophysical properties of sperm membranes and, in the case of the mitochondria, this manifests in a dissipation of membrane potential, electron leakage, increased ROS production and reduced capacity for energy production. This situation is exacerbated by the production of cytotoxic LPO byproducts such as 4-hydroxynonenal, which dysregulate molecules associated with sperm bioenergetic pathways as well as the structural and signaling components of the motility apparatus. The impact of ROS also extends to lesions in the paternal genome, as is commonly seen in the defective spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic males. Concluding, the presence of OS in the male reproductive tract is strongly and positively correlated with reduced sperm motility and fertilizing potential, thus providing a rational target for the development of new therapeutic interventions.
Thermal Relaxation Spectra for Evaluating Luminescence Quantum Efficiency of CASN:Eu2+ Measured by Balanced-Detection Sagnac-Interferometer Photothermal Deflection Spectroscopy
Authors: Chima Hiromichi , Shiokawa Naoyuki , Seto Keisuke , Takahashi Kohsei , Hirosaki Naoto , Kobayashi Takayoshi , Tokunaga Eiji
Published: February 2020

Highly sensitive broadband photothermal spectroscopy with a white-light lamp as the excitation source was developed by combining a Sagnac interferometer and balanced detection with a photothermal deflection method. A probe beam was split by a birefringent crystal CaCO3 into signal and reference beams with a balanced intensity. This balanced detection enabled the measurement of photoexcited thermal relaxation spectra of materials in the air over the whole visible range in the weak excitation limit 50 µW/cm2. The photothermal excitation spectrum of Eu2+-doped CaAlSiN3 phosphors (CASN:Eu2+) with a high luminescent quantum efficiency was measured to be distinctly different from the photoluminescence excitation spectrum which reflects the absorption spectrum, revealing the thermal relaxation mechanism of the phosphor. Assuming a typical non-radiative relaxation from the higher excited states to the lowest excited state and successively to the ground state, it is demonstrated that the photoluminescence efficiency of the phosphors is readily evaluated simply by comparing the photothermal and photoluminescence excitation spectra.
Time-Domain Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Determination of Wettability Alteration: Analysis for Low-Salinity Water
Authors: Medina-Rodriguez Bryan X. , Reilly Teresa , Wang Heng , Smith Erik Robert , Garcia-Olvera Griselda , Alvarado Vladimir , Aryana Saman
Published: February 2020

Wettability has been shown to influence oil recovery. This property has become central to low-salinity (LSW) and smart (SWF) water flooding recovery mechanisms research. The challenge lies in the fact that oil recovery results from the combined effects of solid-liquid and liquid-liquid interactions. This demands methods that allow an independent interpretation of wettability alteration contributions. The primary objective of this work is to assess changes in wettability through the application of Time-Domain Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (TD-NMR) T 2 distribution and diffusion coefficient, starting with a well-controlled porous system, that is, glass beads, and then a model rock (Berea), in the presence of one phase, either oil or brine exclusively. Subsequently, two-phase fluid saturation was tested. For the glass beads, dimethyldichlorosilane was used to induce a hydrophobic response, as confirmed by contact angle experiments on slides of the same material. Sodium sulfate was used for its known positive influence on oil recovery during LSW and SWF. In cases where alteration of surface properties was expected, a leftward shift of the average T 2 distribution curve modes, accompanied by a reduction on the diffusion coefficient during the aging process was observed. The results of this work confirm that fluid-solid interactions during LSW and SWF, namely a shift in wettability, take place after the injection of low-salinity water.
A Review of the Flow-Induced Noise Study for Centrifugal Pumps
Authors: Guo Chang , Gao Ming , He Suoying
Published: February 2020

Flow-induced noise is a significant concern for the design and operation of centrifugal pumps. The negative impacts of flow-induced noise on operating stability, human health and the environment have been shown in many cases. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the flow-induced noise study for centrifugal pumps to synthesize the current study status. First, the generation mechanism and propagation route of flow-induced noise are discussed. Then, three kinds of study methodologies, including the theoretical study of hydrodynamic noise, numerical simulation and experimental measurement study, are summarized. Subsequently, the application of the three study methodologies to the analysis of the distribution characteristics of flow-induced noise is analyzed from aspects of the noise source identification and comparison, the frequency response analysis, the directivity characteristics of sound field and the noise changing characteristics under various operating conditions. After that, the analysis of the noise optimization design of centrifugal pumps is summarized. Finally, based on previous study results, this paper puts forward the unsolved problems and implications for future study. In conclusion, the information collected in this review paper could guide further study of the flow-induced noise of centrifugal pumps.
Correction: Bedon, C.; Fasan, M. Reliability of Field Experiments, Analytical Methods and Pedestrian’s Perception Scales for the Vibration Serviceability Assessment of an In-Service Glass Walkway. Appl. Sci. 2019, 9, 1936
Authors: Bedon Chiara , Fasan Marco
Published: February 2020

We, the authors, wish to make the following corrections to our paper [...]
The Optimization of the Location and Capacity of Reactive Power Generation Units, Using a Hybrid Genetic Algorithm Incorporated by the Bus Impedance Power-Flow Calculation Method
Authors: Kim Insu
Published: February 2020

Dynamic and static reactive power resources have become an important means of maintaining the stability and reliability of power system networks. For example, if reactive power is not appropriately compensated for in transmission and distribution systems, the receiving end voltage may fall dramatically, or the load voltage may increase to a level that trips protection devices. However, none of the previous optimal power-flow studies for reactive power generation (RPG) units have optimized the location and capacity of RPG units by the bus impedance matrix power-flow calculation method. Thus, this study proposes a genetic algorithm that optimizes the location and capacity of RPG units, which is implemented by MATLAB. In addition, this study enhances the algorithm by incorporating bus impedance power-flow calculation method into the algorithm. The proposed hybrid algorithm is shown to be valid when applied to well-known IEEE test systems.
The Effect of Light Intensity on Vegetative Propagation Efficacy, Growth, and Morphology of “Albion” Strawberry Plants in a Precision Indoor Propagation System
Authors: Xu Xiangnan , Hernández Ricardo
Published: February 2020

Open-field strawberry propagation is faced with several challenges such as lack of daughter plants, low quality, and disease transmission. Propagating strawberry plants in a completely enclosed controlled environment using a precision indoor propagation (PIP) system could overcome some of the challenges seen in open-field strawberry propagation. Optimizing the light intensity in a PIP system improves plant growth and reduce propagation cost. In the present study, “Albion” strawberry plants were grown as stock plants in a PIP system to examine plant propagation efficacy under three light intensities, PPF-250 (241 ± 13), PPF-350 (337 ± 13), or PPF-450 (443 ± 17) photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD, μmol m−2 s−1) at 12 h photoperiod. They were grown under 25.7 ± 0.05 °C temperature, 0.95 ± 0.04 kPa vapor pressure deficit, and 73% ± 5.2% relative humidity. The number of daughter plants, morphology, and growth were recorded weekly (non-destructive measurements) for two intervals (01 to 12 weeks and 12 to 21 weeks). The number, total dry mass, and total fresh mass of daughter plants per stock plant increased with the increase in light intensity. The propagation efficacy to light ranged between 0.3 and 1.9 daughter plants per mole of light, depending on light intensity and harvest time. The number of daughter plants per week was estimated to be 36.2 plants wk−1 m−2. Daughter plants were classified by size and size was not influenced by the light treatment. Stock plant crown diameter, leaf area, fresh mass, dry mass, and leaf count all increased with an increase in PPFD. The shoot dry mass percent distribution to the daughter plant was 45% to 46% and was not affected by light intensity treatment. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using PIP systems for the production of strawberry daughter plants.
On a Curious Chance Resemblance: Rudolf von Laban’s Kinetography and the Geometric Abstractions of Sophie Taeuber-Arp
Authors: Brandl Flora L.
Published: February 2020

This paper investigates a case of historical co-emergence between a modern system of dance notation and the rise of geometric abstraction in the applied arts during the first decades of the 20th century. It does so by bringing together the artistic careers of the choreographer Rudolf von Laban and the visual artist Sophie Taeuber-Arp. Comparing their pedagogical agendas and visual aesthetics, this paper argues that the resemblances between Laban’s Kinetography and Taeuber-Arp’s early geometric compositions cannot be a matter of pure coincidence. The paper therefore presents and supports the hypothesis of a co-constitutive relationship between visual abstraction and the dancing body in the European avant-garde.
Impacts of Biomass Burning Emission Inventories and Atmospheric Reanalyses on Simulated PM10 over Indochina
Authors: Takami Kyohei , Shimadera Hikari , Uranishi Katsushige , Kondo Akira
Published: February 2020

Biomass burning (BB) is a major source of atmospheric particles over Indochina during the dry season. Moreover, Indochina has convoluted meteorological scales, and regional meteorological conditions dominate the transport patterns of pollutants. This study focused on the impacts of BB emission inventories and atmospheric reanalyses on simulated PM10 over Indochina in 2014 using the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model. Meteorological fields to input to CMAQ were produced by using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model simulation with the United States National Centers for Environmental Prediction Final (NCEP FNL) Operational Global Analysis or European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasts Interim Reanalysis (ERA-interim). The Fire INventory from NCAR (FINN) v1.5 or the Global Fire Emissions Database including small fires (GFED v4.1s) was selected for BB emissions for the air quality simulation. The simulation case with NCEP FNL and FINN v1.5 (FNL + FINN) performed best throughout 2014, including the season when BB activities were intensified. The normalized percentage difference for maximum daily mean PM10 concentrations at Chiang Mai for FNL + FINN and the two simulation cases applying GFED v4.1s for BB emissions (−53% to −27%) was much larger than that between the FNL + FINN and ERA + FINN cases (10%). BB emission inventories more strongly impacted PM10 simulation than atmospheric reanalyses in highly polluted areas by BB over Indochina in 2014.
Effect of High Intensity Interval Training Compared to Continuous Training on Cognitive Performance in Young Healthy Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mekari Said , Earle Meghan , Martins Ricardo , Drisdelle Sara , Killen Melanie , Bouffard-Levasseur Vicky , Dupuy Olivier
Published: February 2020

To improve cognitive function, moving the body is strongly recommended; however, evidence regarding the proper training modality is still lacking. The purpose of this study was therefore to assess the effects of high intensity interval training (HIIT) compared to moderate intensity continuous exercise (MICE), representing the same total training load, on improving cognitive function in healthy adults. It was hypothesized that after 6 weeks (3 days/week) of stationary bike training, HIIT would improve executive functions more than MICE. Twenty-five participants exercised three times a week for 6 weeks after randomization to the HIIT or MICE training groups. Target intensity was 60% of peak power output (PPO) in the MICE group and 100% PPO in the HIIT group. After training, PPO significantly increased in both the HIIT and MICE groups (9% and 15%, p < 0.01). HIIT was mainly associated with a greater improvement in overall reaction time in the executive components of the computerized Stroop task (980.43 ± 135.27 ms vs. 860.04 ± 75.63 ms, p < 0.01) and the trail making test (42.35 ± 14.86 s vs. 30.35 ± 4.13 s, p < 0.01). T exercise protocol was clearly an important factor in improving executive functions in young adults.
No Immediate Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation at Various Intensities on Cerebral Blood Flow in People with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Workman Craig D. , Ponto Laura L. Boles , Kamholz John , Rudroff Thorsten
Published: February 2020

Animal and transcranial magnetic stimulation motors have evoked potential studies suggesting that the currently used transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) intensities produce measurable physiological changes. However, the validity, mechanisms, and general efficacy of this stimulation modality are currently being scrutinized. The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate the effects of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex tDCS on cerebral blood flow. A sample of three people with multiple sclerosis underwent two blocks of five randomly assigned tDCS intensities (1, 2, 3, 4 mA, and sham; 5 min each) and [15O]water positron emission tomography imaging. The relative regional (i.e., areas under the electrodes) and global cerebral blood flow were calculated. The results revealed no notable differences in regional or global cerebral blood flow from the different tDCS intensities. Thus, 5 min of tDCS at 1, 2, 3, and 4 mA did not result in immediate changes in cerebral blood flow. To achieve sufficient magnitudes of intracranial electrical fields without direct peripheral side effects, novel methods may be required.
Erratum: Richard Wadsworth et al. Changes in Rainfall in Sierra Leone: 1981–2018. Climate 2019, 7, 144
Authors: Editorial Office Climate
Published: February 2020

The authors would like to correct the funding part of this article [...]
Anodic Protection Assessment Using Alumina-Forming Alloys in Chloride Molten Salt for CSP Plants
Authors: Fernández Angel G. , Cabeza Luisa F.
Published: February 2020

The generation of a natural protective coating in alumina-forming alloys was analyzed using a ternary chloride molten salt as a thermal energy storage material for concentrated solar power (CSP) technology. The formation of the protective layer was monitored using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). A protective layer model for the OCT alloy and a localized corrosion model for the OCI and OC4 alloys were obtained after 5 h of immersion. The corrosion rates calculated using the linear polarization technique (LPR), were 8.03, 21.55, and 7.61 mm/year for OC4, OCI, and OCT alloys, respectively. These results were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Our analysis showed that MgAl2O4 was the main protective coating generated by the alumina-forming alloys.
Deforestation and Connectivity among Protected Areas of Tanzania
Authors: Gizachew Belachew , Rizzi Jonathan , Shirima Deo D. , Zahabu Eliakimu
Published: February 2020

Protected Areas (PAs) in Tanzania had been established originally for the goal of habitat, landscape and biodiversity conservation. However, human activities such as agricultural expansion and wood harvesting pose challenges to the conservation objectives. We monitored a decade of deforestation within 708 PAs and their unprotected buffer areas, analyzed deforestation by PA management regimes, and assessed connectivity among PAs. Data came from a Landsat based wall-to-wall forest to non-forest change map for the period 2002–2013, developed for the definition of Tanzania’s National Forest Reference Emissions Level (FREL). Deforestation data were extracted in a series of concentric bands that allow pairwise comparison and correlation analysis between the inside of PAs and the external buffer areas. Half of the PAs exhibit either no deforestation or significantly less deforestation than the unprotected buffer areas. A small proportion (10%; n = 71) are responsible for more than 90% of the total deforestation; but these few PAs represent more than 75% of the total area under protection. While about half of the PAs are connected to one or more other PAs, the remaining half, most of which are Forest Reserves, are isolated. Furthermore, deforestation inside isolated PAs is significantly correlated with deforestation in the unprotected buffer areas, suggesting pressure from land use outside PAs. Management regimes varied in reducing deforestation inside PA territories, but differences in protection status within a management regime are also large. Deforestation as percentages of land area and forested areas of PAs was largest for Forest Reserves and Game Controlled areas, while most National Parks, Nature Reserves and Forest Plantations generally retained large proportions of their forest cover. Areas of immediate management concern include the few PAs with a disproportionately large contribution to the total deforestation, and the sizeable number of PAs being isolated. Future protection should account for landscapes outside protected areas, engage local communities and establish new PAs or corridors such as village-managed forest areas.
Hazards of Activation of Cryogenic Processes in the Arctic Community: A Geopenetrating Radar Study in Lorino, Chukotka, Russia
Authors: Tregubov Oleg , Kraev Gleb , Maslakov Aleksey
Published: February 2020

The subsurface structure of permafrost is of high significance to forecast landscape dynamics and the engineering stability of infrastructure under human impacts and climate warming, which is a modern challenge for Arctic communities. Application of the non-destructive method of geo-penetrating radar (GPR) survey is a promising way to study it. The study program, which could be used for planning and monitoring of measures of adaptation of Arctic communities to environmental changes is provided in this paper. The main principle was to use etalons of coupled radargrams and archive geological data to interpret changes in the permafrost structure from a grid of 5–10 m deep GPR transects. Here, we show the application of GPR to reconstruct and predict hazards of activation of cryogenic processes from the spatial variability in the structure of permafrost. The cumulative effects of the village and climate change on permafrost were manifested in changes in the active layer thickness from 0.5−1.0 m to up to 3.5 m. Despite that the permafrost degradation has declined due to the improved maintenance of infrastructure and the effects of ground filling application, the hazards of heaving and thermokarst remain for the built-up area in Lorino.
New Perspectives in the Definition/Evaluation of Seismic Hazard through Analysis of the Environmental Effects Induced by Earthquakes
Authors: Porfido Sabina , Alessio Giuliana , Gaudiosi Germana , Nappi Rosa
Published: February 2020

The application of the Environmental Seismic Intensity (ESI) scale 2007 to moderate and strong earthquakes, in different geological context all over the word, highlights the importance of Earthquake Environmental Effects (EEEs) for the assessment of seismic hazards. This Special Issue “New Perspectives in the Definition/Evaluation of Seismic Hazard through Analysis of the Environmental Effects Induced by Earthquakes” presents a collection of scientific contributions that provide a sample of the state-of-the-art in this field. Moreover the collected papers also analyze new data produced with multi-disciplinary and innovative methods essential for development of new seismic hazard models.
Trends in Transportation Modes and Time among Chinese Population from 2002 to 2012
Authors: Gong Weiyan , Yuan Fan , Feng Ganyu , Ma Yanning , Zhang Yan , Ding Caicui , Chen Zheng , Liu Ailing
Published: February 2020

Giving the rising trends in obesity and chronic diseases in China, strategies to increase physical activity are important. Transport-related activity is a substantial source of physical activity and can be easily incorporated into the daily lives. It is a key social factor of health, which can help improve people’s mental and physical health and decrease environmental pollution. However, little is known about recent trends in transportation modes and time in China. Between 2002 and 2010–2012, information about transportation behaviors of Chinese population aged 15 years or older were collected within two Chinese Nutrition and Health Surveys. A stratified multistage cluster sampling method was conducted to select participants. Sociodemographic information, transportation modes, and time were collected during face-to-face interviews. The study included 82,377 (mean age 41.2 years) and 143,075 (mean age 48.7 years) participants in the 2002 and 2010–2012 surveys respectively. The weighted prevalence of active transportation (including walking and cycling) decreased from 83.8% in 2002 to 54.3% in 2010–2012 (p < 0.001). During the same period, the number of participants using public transportation (including taking the bus, subway, or shuttle bus) has doubled (7.5% and 15.7%, respectively, for 2002 and 2010–2012, (p < 0.001)), and the proportion of inactive transportation (including driving or taking a car, motorcycle, taxi, or electric bicycle) more than tripled. Concurrently, the transportation time almost doubled with an increase of 25.9 min over the 10 years (p < 0.001). The prevalence of active transportation increased with age. Participants with higher family income and education reported a lower prevalence of active transportation. Females were more likely to use active transportation (OR (95% CI): 4.41 (4.14–4.70) and 2.50 (2.44–2.57), respectively, for 2002 and 2010–2012, where males were the reference). Before the prevalence of active transportation and physical activity gets lower, there is a need for the public health sector and the transport and land use sector to work together to develop related policies and initiatives with the aim of promoting active transportation and public transportation to increase the levels of physical activity and to decrease the risks of chronic diseases.
Gender Norms, Roles and Relations and Cannabis-Use Patterns: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hemsing Natalie , Greaves Lorraine
Published: February 2020

Currently, boys and men use cannabis at higher rates than girls and women, but the gender gap is narrowing. With the legalization of recreational cannabis use in Canada and in multiple US states, these trends call for urgent attention to the need to consider how gender norms, roles and relations influence patterns of cannabis use to inform health promotion and prevention responses. Based on a scoping review on sex, gender and cannabis use, this article consolidates existing evidence from the academic literature on how gender norms, roles and relations impact cannabis-use patterns. Evidence is reviewed on: adherence to dominant masculine and feminine norms and cannabis-use patterns among adolescents and young adults, and how prevailing norms can be both reinstated or reimagined through cannabis use; gendered social dynamics in cannabis-use settings; and the impact of gender roles and relations on cannabis use among young adults of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Findings from the review are compared and contrasted with evidence on gender norms, roles and relations in the context of alcohol and tobacco use. Recommendations for integrating gender transformative principles in health promotion and prevention responses to cannabis use are provided.
Turnover Intention among Field Epidemiologists in South Korea
Authors: Ryu Sukhyun
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this study was to explore the level of occupational stress, job satisfaction, and turnover intention among Korean field epidemiologists, and to identify the factors that contribute to their turnover intention. We surveyed the Korean field epidemiologists in the cohort from 2016 to 2018 using the Occupational Stress Inventory, revised edition, and questionnaires developed from the Public Health Workforce Interest and Needs Survey. Fisher’s exact test was used to identify the association between sociodemographic characteristics, occupational stress, job satisfaction, and turnover intention. Overall, 17 Korean field epidemiologists participated in this study (response rate: 74%). More than half of field epidemiologists had turnover intention (53%), and it was less likely to be present in the field epidemiologists recruited from the civilian sector than those recruited from the military (adjusted odds ratio, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.39–0.88). Furthermore, about two-thirds of field epidemiologists had a burden of occupational stress on Role Ambiguity (65%), and only one respondent expressed satisfaction with the job. There was no significant relation among the levels of occupational stress, job satisfaction, and turnover intention. In this study, the field epidemiologists recruited from the military were more likely to have turnover intention. Additional studies to identify possible ways to reduce turnover intention among the public health workforce are warranted.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Glycemic Control in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: United States 2003–2014
Authors: Smalls Brittany L. , Ritchwood Tiarney D. , Bishu Kinfe G. , Egede Leonard E.
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to determine whether racial differences in HbA1c persist in older adults (≥65 years) living with type 2 diabetes. Data from The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2014 were used to examine the association between HbA1c and older adults (≥65 years) over time. Compared to non-Hispanic Whites, Mexican Americans had the greatest difference in average HbA1c among minority groups, followed by those with unspecified/mixed ethnicities and non-Hispanic Blacks. In the adjusted linear model, racial minorities had a statistically significant relationship with HbA1c. There was no relationship between HbA1c and older age and insulin use. Trends in mean HbA1c over time increased for non-Hispanic Blacks and Mexican Americans and decreased for non-Hispanic Whites. The findings suggest that racial differences in HbA1c persist into older age and compared to non-Hispanic Whites, non-Hispanic Blacks and Mexican Americans are at an increased risk of morbidity, mortality, and disability due to high HbA1c. Furthermore, alternate measures of glycemic control may be needed to screen and manage T2DM in racial minorities.
“Dr. Google, I am in Pain”—Global Internet Searches Associated with Pain: A Retrospective Analysis of Google Trends Data
Authors: Kamiński Mikołaj , Łoniewski Igor , Marlicz Wojciech
Published: February 2020

We aimed to rank the most common locations of pain among Google users globally and locally and analyze secular and seasonal trends in pain-related searches in the years 2004–2019. We used data generated by Google Trends (GT) to identify and analyze global interest in topics (n = 24) related to locations of pain and how these progressed over time. We analyzed secular trends and time series decomposition to identify seasonal variations. We also calculated the interest in all topics with reference to the relative search volume (RSV) of “Abdominal pain”. Google users were most commonly interested in “Headache” (1.30 [times more frequently than “Abdominal pain”]), “Abdominal pain” (1.00), and “Back pain” (0.84). “Headache” was the most frequent search term in n = 41 countries, while “Abdominal pain” was the most frequent term in n = 27 countries. The interest in all pain-related topics except “Dyspareunia” increased over time. The sharpest increase was observed for “Abdominal pain” (5.67 RSV/year), and “Toothache” (5.52 RSV/year). Most of the topics revealed seasonal variations. Among pain-related topics, “Headache,” “Abdominal pain,” and “Back pain” interested most Google users. GT is a novel tool that allows retrospective investigation of complaints among Internet users.
Cardiac Troponin T Release after Football 7 in Healthy Children and Adults
Authors: Cirer-Sastre Rafel , Legaz-Arrese Alejandro , Corbi Francisco , López-Laval Isaac , Puente-Lanzarote Juan José , Hernández-González Vicenç , Reverter-Masia Joaquin
Published: February 2020

The objective of this study was to compare the release of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) after a football 7 match between two cohorts of children and adult players. Thirty-six male football players (children = 24, adult = 12) played a football 7 match, and cTnT was measured before, and 3 h after exercise. Concentrations of cTnT were compared between groups and time, and correlated with participants’ characteristics, as well as internal and external exercise load. Cardiac troponin T was elevated in all participants (p < 0.001), and exceeded the upper reference limit for myocardial infarction in 25 (~70%) of them. Baseline concentrations were higher in adults (p < 0.001), but the elevation of cTnT was comparable between the groups (p = 0.37). Age (p < 0.001), body mass (p = 0.001) and height (p < 0.001), and training experience (p = 0.001) were associated to baseline cTnT values, while distance (p < 0.001), mean speed (p < 0.001), and peak (p = 0.013) and mean (p = 0.016) heart rate were associated to the elevation of cTnT. The present study suggests that a football 7 match evoked elevations of cTnT during the subsequent hours in healthy players regardless of their age. However, adults might present higher resting values of cTnT than children. In addition, results suggest that the exercise-induced elevations of cTnT might be mediated by exercise load but not participant characteristics.
Strengthening Health Systems to Support Children with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities in Fiji—A Commentary
Authors: Woolfenden Sue , Milner Kate , Tora Kali , Naulumatua Kelera , Mataika Reapi , Smith Fleur , Lingam Raghu , Kado Joseph , Tuibeqa Ilisapeci
Published: February 2020

Supporting children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) is recognized as an increasing priority in Fiji, a middle-income Pacific Island country. Our objective was to describe our approach to developing a model of care and strengthening local leadership in developmental paediatrics in Fiji to ensure high-quality identification, assessment and management of children with NDDs. Paediatric staff at Colonial War Memorial (CWM) Hospital in Suva have worked in partnership with Australian paediatricians to develop the model of care. The platform of continuing medical education during biannual 3 to 4 days of clinic-based teaching with visiting developmental paediatricians from Australia has been used. Since 2010, there have been 15 local and regional paediatric trainees trained. Since 2015, our two local lead paediatric trainees have run a weekly local developmental clinic. In total, 370 children aged 0 to 18 with NDDs have been comprehensively assessed with a detailed history and standardised tools. The model is extending to two divisional hospitals. Research engagement with the team is resulting in the development of a local evidence base. Local, regional and international leadership and collaboration has resulted in increased capacity in the Fijian health system to support children with NDDs.
Assessing Health Impacts of Conventional Centralized and Emerging Resource Recovery-Oriented Decentralized Water Systems
Authors: Romeiko Xiaobo Xue
Published: February 2020

Energy shortage and climate change call for sustainable water and wastewater infrastructure capable of simultaneously recovering energy, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, and protecting public health. Although energy and greenhouse gas emissions of water and wastewater infrastructure are extensively studied, the human health impacts of innovative infrastructure designed under the principles of decentralization and resource recovery are not fully understood. In order to fill this knowledge gap, this study assesses and compares the health impacts of three representative systems by integrating life cycle and microbial risk assessment approaches. This study found that the decentralized system options, such as on-site septic tank and composting or urine diverting toilets, presented much lower life cycle cancer and noncancer impacts than the centralized system. The microbial risks of decentralized systems options were also lower than those of the centralized system. Moreover, life cycle cancer and noncancer impacts contributed to approximately 95% of total health impacts, while microbial risks were associated with the remaining 5%. Additionally, the variability and sensitivity assessment indicated that reducing energy use of wastewater treatment and water distribution is effective in mitigating total health damages of the centralized system, while reducing energy use of water treatment is effective in mitigating total health damages of the decentralized systems.