bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardioprotective Peptides from Milk Processing and Dairy Products: From Bioactivity to Final Products including Commercialization and Legislation
Authors: Mirzapour-Kouhdasht Armin , Garcia-Vaquero Marco
Published: April 2022

Recent research has revealed the potential of peptides derived from dairy products preventing cardiovascular disorders, one of the main causes of death worldwide. This review provides an overview of the main cardioprotective effects (assayed in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo) of bioactive peptides derived from different dairy processing methods (fermentation and enzymatic hydrolysis) and dairy products (yogurt, cheese, and kefir), as well as the beneficial or detrimental effects of the process of gastrointestinal digestion following oral consumption on the biological activities of dairy-derived peptides. The main literature available on the structure–function relationship of dairy bioactive peptides, such as molecular docking and quantitative structure–activity relationships, and their allergenicity and toxicity will also be covered together with the main legislative frameworks governing the commercialization of these compounds. The current products and companies currently commercializing their products as a source of bioactive peptides will also be summarized, emphasizing the main challenges and opportunities for the industrial exploitation of dairy bioactive peptides in the market of functional food and nutraceuticals.
Global Understanding of Accretion and Ejection around Black Holes
Authors: Mondal Santanu
Published: April 2022

Accretion and ejection around compact objects, mainly around black holes, both in low mass, and supermassive, is rich and has been studied exhaustively [...]
Multi-Responsive Optimization of Novel pH-Sensitive Hydrogel Beads Based on Basil Seed Mucilage, Alginate, and Magnetic Particles
Authors: Srikhao Natwat , Chirochrapas Korrapat , Kwansanei Nessaraporn , Kasemsiri Pornnapa , Ounkaew Artjima , Okhawilai Manunya , Likitaporn Chutiwat , Theerakulpisut Somnuk , Uyama Hiroshi
Published: April 2022

Conventional drug delivery systems often cause side effects and gastric degradation. Novel drug delivery systems must be developed to decrease side effects and increase the efficacy of drug delivery. This research aimed to fabricate hydrogel beads for use as a drug delivery system based on basil seed mucilage (BSM), sodium alginate (SA), and magnetic particles (MPs). The Taguchi method and Grey relational analysis were used for the design and optimization of the hydrogel beads. Three factors, including BSM, SA, and MPs at four levels were designed by L-16 orthogonal arrays. BSM was the main factor influencing bead swelling, drug release rate at pH 7.4, and release of antioxidants at pH 1.2 and 7.4. In addition, SA and MPs mainly affected drug loading and drug release rate in acidic medium, respectively. Grey relational analysis indicated that the composition providing optimal overall properties was 0.2 vol% BSM, 0.8 vol% SA, and 2.25 vol% MPs. Based on the findings of this work, BSM/SA/MPs hydrogel beads have the potential to be used as a pH-sensitive alternative material for drug delivery in colon-specific systems.
Patients’ Satisfaction with E-Prescribing (Wasfaty) in Saudi Arabia: A Survey of Country-Level Implementation
Authors: Almaghaslah Dalia , Alsayari Abdulrhman , Almaghaslah Sokinh , Alsanna Haytham
Published: April 2022

Aim: This study was conducted to assess patient satisfaction with the e-prescription service implemented by the Ministry of Health hospitals and primary healthcare centres in Saudi Arabia. Methods: The study used a cross-sectional approach. Data were collected using a random sampling technique, and an online questionnaire was distributed among the study population. A five-point Likert scale, ranging from 1 (not at all satisfied) to 5 (very satisfied), was used to assess patient satisfaction. Results and Conclusions: A total of 400 patients participated in the study. More than half (57.5%) of them were males, and approximately one-third were between the ages of 30 and 39. Aspects related to the pharmacy, i.e., accessibility of pharmacies in terms of numbers, location, and opening hours, as well as pharmacy facilities, including waiting area, counselling area, dispensing area and parking lots, were skewed towards 5 (very satisfied). Aspects related to pharmacy personnel, i.e., knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as friendliness and approachability, were also skewed towards 5 (very satisfied). Factors related to patient experience with Wasfaty, the new service, as compared with old primary healthcare centres’ pharmaceutical services, such as the availability of pharmacists, procedures for refills, waiting time, privacy, and confidentiality, were also skewed towards 5 (very satisfied).
Differential Methylation Analysis of Suicidal Ideation Severity in Schizophrenia with the Illumina MethylationEPIC Array
Authors: Wang Kevin Z. , Chaudhary Zanib , Qian Jessica , Adanty Christopher , Graff-Guerrero Ariel , Gerretsen Philip , Zai Clement C. , De Luca Vincenzo
Published: April 2022

There is a multitude of factors that makes difficult to identify those at risk for suicide, especially among schizophrenia patients. Suicide cannot be explained by genetics alone, therefore epigenetic mechanisms including DNA methylation are thought to play a role. DNA methylation could be a valuable tool in helping predict those at-risk individuals. This cross-sectional study comprised 112 subjects diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and were grouped according to the current suicidal ideation severity. DNA methylation across the genome was measured with the Infinium® MethylationEPIC BeadChip. We utilized the dmpFinder and bumphunter functions within the Bioconductor minfi package to identify differentially methylated positions (DMPs) and differentially methylated regions (DMRs), respectively. Following quality control, we removed one sample from the analysis and reported the most significant DMPs and DMRs associated with suicidal ideation severity. All positions and regions identified in this analysis were only found to have suggestive levels of significance at the genome-wide level. The present study was one of the first to investigate genome-wide methylation and suicidal ideation severity. While there were many strengths of our study, including investigating both differentially methylated positions and regions, further larger-scale studies are necessary to replicate, support, and validate our findings presented here.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Regulates Autonomic Markers in Preterm Infants: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Manzotti Andrea , Cerritelli Francesco , Lombardi Erica , Monzani Elena , Savioli Luca , Esteves Jorge E. , Galli Matteo , La Rocca Simona , Biasi Pamela , Chiera Marco , Lista Gianluca
Published: April 2022

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) has been found to be effective in the context of premature infants. Nonetheless, no studies have investigated the immediate effects of OMT on heart rate variability (HRV). As altered HRV reflects poor or worsening newborn’s clinical conditions and neurodevelopment, should OMT improve HRV fluctuations, it could become a relevant intervention for improving the care of preterm newborns. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate whether OMT could affect HRV. The study was carried out at the Buzzi Hospital in Milan. From the neonatal intensive care unit, ninety-six preterm infants (41 males) were enrolled and were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: OMT or Static Touch. The infants were born at 33.5 weeks (±4.3) and had a mean birth weight of 2067 g (±929). The study had as primary outcome the change in the beat-to-beat variance in heart rate measured through root mean square of consecutive RR interval differences (RMSSD); other metrics were used as secondary and exploratory analyses. Despite the lack of statistically significant results regarding the primary outcomeand some study limitations, compared to static touch, OMT seemed to favor a parasympathetic modulation and improved HRV, which could reflect improvement in newborn’s clinical conditions and development.
Volatiles Distinguishing the European ‘Conference’ and the Asian ‘Yali’ Pears Stored at Different Post-Harvest Temperatures
Authors: Goliáš Jan , Balík Josef , Létal Jiří
Published: April 2022

A total of 124 identical volatile aromatic compounds were identified during storage of the European ‘Conference’ and the Asian ‘Yali’ pear cultivars in different temperature conditions. Only 5 volatiles were statistically differentiated in both cultivars by means of successive multinomial logistic regression: 3-methylbutan-1-al, 2-methylpropyl acetate, 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, ethanol, and eugenol. Significant statistical data obtained by sequential multinomial logistic regression developed by the principal component analysis (PCA) procedure and distinguishing the different ‘Conference’ and ‘Yali’ pears storage regimes were dimensionless in themselves. The PCA components were expressed as linear combinations of selected variables necessary to distinguish the cultivars. The eigenvalues of the first three PCA components differentiated the storage regimes. For each principal components were selected volatiles with a probability higher than 0.4. Combinations created from PCA components were shown using clusters distinguishing the pear storage conditions used. Analytical data from SPME-GC/MS such as concentration (ng kg−1) demonstrated multiple and order-of-magnitude differences between the ‘Conference’ and ‘Yali’ pears. The ‘Yali’ cultivar exhibited significantly higher concentrations of eugenol.
Genome-Wide Characterization Analysis of CCT Genes in Raphanus sativus and Their Potential Role in Flowering and Abiotic Stress Response
Authors: Tan Qunyun , He Zhengjin , Mei Shiyong , Zhang Jifang
Published: April 2022

CCT genes play vital roles in flowering, plant growth, development, and response to abiotic stresses. Although they have been reported in many plants, the characterization and expression pattern of CCT genes is still limited in R. sativus. In this study, a total of 58 CCT genes were identified in R. sativus. Phylogenetic tree, gene structure, and conserved domains revealed that all CCT genes were classified into three groups: COL, CMF, and PRR. Genome-wide identification and evolutionary analysis showed that segmental duplication expanded the CCT gene families considerably, with the LF subgenome retaining more CCT genes. We observed strong purifying selection pressure for CCT genes. RsCCT genes showed tissue specificity, and some genes (such as RsCCT22, RsCCT36, RsCCT42 and RsCCT51) were highly expressed in flowers. Promoter cis-elements and RNA-seq data analysis showed that RsCCT genes could play roles in controlling flowering through the photoperiodic pathway and vernalization pathway. The expression profiles of RsCCT genes under Cd, Cr, Pb, and heat and salt stresses revealed that many RsCCT genes could respond to one or more abiotic stresses. Our findings could provide essential information for further studies on the function of RsCCT genes.
Assessment of Physicochemical, Macro- and Microelements, Heavy Metals, and Related Human Health Risk from Organically, Conventionally, and Homemade Romanian Wines
Authors: Bora Florin Dumitru , Călugăr Anamaria , Bunea Claudiu-Ioan , Rozsa Sandor , Bunea Andrea
Published: April 2022

From the consumers’ perspective, organic and homemade products have become more attractive than conventional ones. However, scientific data regarding the characteristics, properties, and composition of these products are scarce. This study assessed the elemental composition of organic, conventional, and homemade Romanian wines. The physicochemical composition, SO2 (free and total) and total concentration of macroelements, microelements, and heavy metals from nine wine regions containing 165 samples of white (38 organic/70 conventional/57 homemade), 67 red (22/31/14) and 7 rosé (2/2/3) wines were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Dietary intake and target hazard quotient were also evaluated. The phytochemical and elemental compositions of the wine samples varied across regions and wine types. The highest levels of Ca, K, Fe and Al were detected in conventional wines, while homemade wines recorded high concentrations of Na, Mg, V, Ba and Rb. In the case of the rosé wine samples, the levels of trace elements and heavy metals were below the admissible limit. The estimated daily intake of a glass of wine provided less than 0.5% of the tolerable daily intake of the analyzed elements. No health concerns were identified. All wine samples can be safely consumed, regardless of the culture system used for production, and homemade wines are not of a lower quality than organic or conventional wines.
Study on the Application of Electronic Nose Technology in the Detection for the Artificial Ripening of Crab Apples
Authors: Qiao Jianlei , Su Guoqiang , Liu Chang , Zou Yuanjun , Chang Zhiyong , Yu Hailing , Wang Lianjun , Guo Ruixue
Published: April 2022

Ripening agents can accelerate the ripening of fruits and maintain a similar appearance to naturally ripe fruits, but the fruit flavor and quality will be changed compared to naturally ripe fruits. To find an efficient detection method to distinguish whether crab apples were artificial ripened, the naturally ripe and artificially ripe fruits were detected and analyzed using the electronic nose (e-nose) technique in this study. The fruit quality indexes of samples were determined by the traditional method as a reference. Significant differences were found between naturally ripe and artificially ripe fruits based on the analysis of soluble sugar content, titratable acidity content, sugar–acid ratio, soluble protein content, and soluble solids content. In addition, principal component analysis (PCA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), support vector machine (SVM), and random forest (RF) analyses were performed on the electrical signals generated by the electronic nose sensor, respectively. The results showed that the RF is the best recognition algorithm for distinguishing which crab apples were naturally ripe or artificially ripe; the average recognition accuracy is 98.3%. On the other hand, the prediction models between the e-nose response data and fruit quality indexes were constructed by partial least squares regression (PLSR), which showed that the feature value of e-nose response curves extracted by wavelet transform was highly correlated with the quality indexes of fruits, the determination coefficients (R2) of regression models were higher than 0.91. The results demonstrated that the detection technology with an electronic nose could be used to test whether the fruit of the crab apple was artificially ripe, which is an economical and efficient method.
Editorial for Special Issue: “Integrated Surface Water and Groundwater Analysis”
Authors: Chung Il-Moon , Chang Sun Woo , Hwang Yeonsang , Kim Yeonjoo
Published: April 2022

Comprehensive understanding of groundwater—surface water (GW–SW) interaction is essential for effective water resources management [...]
Correction of Empirical Equations Known as “Strickler-Type” for the Calculation of the Manning’s Roughness Coefficient for Costa Rica’s Northern Pacific Conditions
Authors: Serrano-Núñez Valeria , Watson-Hernández Fernando , Guzmán-Arias Isabel , Chavarría-Pizarro Laura , Quesada-Alvarado Francisco
Published: April 2022

When using numerical models for hydraulic simulations of rivers, calibration is key to be able to reflect accurately the interaction of water flow in the channel and to make it resemble what is observed. In this study, a calibrated two-dimensional hydraulic model was created for two control paths located in the Ahogados and Tempisquito rivers. Paths were analyzed morphologically from a grain-size analysis and the different roughness coefficients were calculated through a numerical model using the empirical equations known as “Strickler-type” as a first approximation and later adjustment by a factor obtained from comparing the observed and simulated data. It was identified that both paths are mountain rivers with beds of coarse material, mostly boulders (cobble gravel) and pebble gravel. Calibrated roughness coefficients were determined with an error percentage between the area of the pattern formed by the simulated and observed of less than 10%, and new empirical equations adjusted to the characteristics of the riverbeds were formulated.
Benefits, Risks and Gender Differences in Sport, and Exercise Dependence: Key Role of Alexithymia
Authors: Manfredi Paola
Published: April 2022

The literature has long highlighted the benefits of sport, but too much sport could indicate a dependence without a substance, namely exercise dependence. The literature has only recently investigated this issue and therefore several questions are open, particularly with regard to psychopathological significance and gender differences. The aim of this paper is to investigate whether young subjects (M = 20 years) with a risk of exercise dependency and non-dependent symptomatic display other behavioural and psychological suffering and discomforts, or whether such an investment in physical activity is compatible with a framework of relative well-being; and if there are differences related to gender. A total of 396 subjects were involved in this study. Exercise Dependence Scale, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, Subjective Happiness Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale and an ad hoc questionnaire with information relating to the consumption of alcohol, soft and hard drugs, quality of sleep and nutrition, affective and friendship relationships, hobbies, presence of psychological or physical disorders, motivations for sporting activity, and any traumatic experiences were used. With regard to the Exercise Dependence Scale (EDS), the prevalence of subjects at risk of exercise dependence was 1.5% and that of non-dependents symptomatic was 31.3%. Considering only men, the percentage of subjects at risk of exercise dependence rose to 3% and that of non-dependents symptomatic to 47.9%. Our data support the hypothesis that the risk of exercise dependence and the symptomatic condition without dependence can occur in situations of relative well-being (happiness, satisfaction, relationships) without significant associations with other problematic behaviours. Modest consumption of soft drugs is reported in non-dependent symptomatic subjects. The hypothesis of increased levels of alexithymia is confirmed but limited to the male gender. Gender differences are confirmed in the frequency and motivation to practice sport and in the risk of dependence. It is important that the assessment of addiction risk is integrated with the assessment of alexithymia and personal and social resources over time.
Temporal Validation of Chiang Mai University Intussusception Failed Reduction Score (CMUI)
Authors: Khorana Jiraporn , Sayuen Chanathip , Chanaturakarnnon Sutinee , Nate-anong Butsarin , Singhavejsakul Jesda , Tepmalai Kanokkan , Chantakhow Sireekarn , Sathavornvichit Wilai
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to validate the “Chiang Mai University Intussusception Failed Score (CMUI)” for intussusception non-operative reduction. Both a 2-year retrospective and a 5-year prospective consecutive review of patients with intussusception were conducted. Data were collected from January 2013 to December 2020. Related retrospective data of a developmental set from two centers from January 2006 to December 2012 were used. Ten prespecified prognostic factors for failed reduction were collected and from these a predictive score was calculated. The actual results of non-operative reduction were collected and set as a reference standard. Altogether, 195 episodes of intussusception were found. Twenty-two patients were excluded due to contraindications; therefore, a total of 173 episodes were included in the validation dataset. The development data set comprised 170 episodes. We found that no statistical significance was found from comparing the areas under the ROC of two datasets (p-value = 0.31), while specificity of the validation set was 93.8% (88.1–97.3). This temporal validation showed a high specificity and a high affinity for prediction of failed reduction as the development dataset despite being in an era of a higher successful reduction rate. The intensive reduction protocols might be introduced among patients with high-risk scores.
Focused-Attention Meditation Improves Flow, Communication Skills, and Safety Attitudes of Surgeons
Authors: Chen Hao , Liu Chao , Zhou Fang , Cao Xin-Yi , Wu Kan , Chen Yi-Lang , Liu Chia-Yih , Huang Ding-Hau , Chiou Wen-Ko
Published: April 2022

Objective: Patient safety is a worldwide problem and a focus of academic research. Human factors and ergonomics (HFE) is an approach to improving healthcare work systems and processes. From the perspective of the cognitive ergonomics of HFE, the aim of this study is to improve the flow level, communication skills, and safety attitudes of surgeons through focused-attention meditation (FAM) training, thus helping to reduce adverse clinical events. Methods: In total, 140 surgeons were recruited from three hospitals in China and randomly divided into two groups (FAM group and control group). The FAM group received 8 weeks of FAM training, while the control group was on the waiting list and did not receive any interventions. Three scales (WOLF, LCSAS, and SAQ-C) were used to measure the data of three variables (flow, communication skills, and safety attitude), respectively, at two times, before and after the intervention (pre-test and post-test). The incidence of adverse events during the intervention was also collected for both groups. Results: The ANOVA results showed that all three variables had a significant main effect of time and significant interactions between time and group. The independent-sample T-test results showed that the incidence of adverse events during the intervention was significantly lower in the FAM group than in the control group. Conclusions: The intervention of FAM could significantly improve surgeons’ flow levels, communication skills, and safety attitudes, potentially helping to reduce adverse clinical events.
Loneliness in Older Indian Dyads
Authors: Shankar Aparna , Kidd Tara
Published: April 2022

Background: Loneliness has been recognised as a major public health concern in older adults in developed nations, with little focus on low- and middle-income countries such as India. While the protective nature of social relationships on loneliness has been explored in the context of marriage, typically these benefits are examined in individual spouses rather than within the marital dyad. Methods: A sample of 398 opposite-sex married Indian couples (mean age 54.8 years) was obtained from the pilot wave of the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) conducted in 2010. These cross-sectional data were analysed using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Model, with one’s own and one’s partner’s cognitive function, functional limitations, depressive symptoms, employment status and contact with friends included as predictors of loneliness. Results: There were no gender differences in the pattern of associations. Depression was positively associated with loneliness with actor and partner effects being significant. One’s partner being employed was associated with less loneliness. Conclusions: The sample showed low levels of depression, loneliness, and reduced functionality; however, depression still predicted one’s own and one’s partner’s loneliness. Future work using longitudinal data could examine the role of employment in loneliness, particularly within the context of gender roles.
What Social Supports Are Available to Self-Employed People When Ill or Injured? A Comparative Policy Analysis of Canada and Australia
Authors: Khan Tauhid Hossain , MacEachen Ellen , Dunstan Debra
Published: April 2022

Self-employment (SE) is a growing precarious work arrangement internationally. In the current digital age, SE appears in configurations and contours that differ from the labor market of 50 years ago and is part of a ‘paradigm shift’ from manufacturing/managerial capitalism to entrepreneurial capitalism. Our purpose in this paper is to reflect on how a growing working population of self-employed people accesses social support systems when they are not working due to injury and sickness in the two comparable countries of Canada and Australia. We adopted ‘interpretive policy analysis’ as a methodological framework and searched a wide range of documents related to work disability policy and practice, including official data, legal and policy texts from both countries, and five prominent academic databases. Three major themes emerged from the policy review and analysis: (i) defining self-employment: contested views; (ii) the relationship between misclassification of SE and social security systems; (iii) existing social security systems for workers and self-employed workers: Ontario and NSW. Our comparative discussion leads us toward conclusions about what might need to be done to better protect self-employed workers in terms of reforming the existing social security systems for the countries. Because of similarities and differences in support available for SE’d workers in the two countries, our study provides insights into what might be required to move the different countries toward sustainable labour markets for their respective self-employed populations.
Spatial Analysis on the Role of Multi-Dimensional Urbanizations in Carbon Emissions: Evidence from China
Authors: Guo Mingyuan , Chen Shaoli , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2022

Using the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 1997 to 2015, this paper studies the impacts of urbanization on carbon emission. We use the entropy weight method to measure the weight of the indicator to evaluate four-dimensional urbanizations, including population, economic, consumption and living urbanization. In addition, we investigated the spatial correlation of carbon emissions, taking the spatial differences into consideration. The spatial Durbin model is finally selected to analyze the impacts of urbanizations on carbon emission. The conclusions are: Firstly, from the results of the panel data model, the four dimensions of urbanization all play a significant role in promoting carbon emissions in the whole regions. However, in eastern China, central China and western China, four dimensions of urbanization have different impacts on carbon emissions. Secondly, from Moran’s I of carbon emissions from 1997 to 2015 in China, we conclude that carbon emissions in China present a significant spatial aggregation. Thirdly, from the results of spatial econometrics model, population urbanization only promotes local carbon emissions. Economic urbanization and consumption urbanization promote local carbon emissions and reduce carbon emissions in its neighboring provinces. Living urbanization promotes both local carbon emissions and its neighboring provinces’ carbon emissions. This paper proposes some recommendations for the carbon emission decreasing during urbanization. First, establishment and improvement of coordination mechanisms and information sharing mechanisms across regions should also be considered. Second, control population growth reasonably and optimize population structure in order to achieve an orderly flow and rational distribution of the population. Third, the assessment mechanism of the local government should include not only economic indicators but also other indicators.
COVID-19 and Attendance Demand for Professional Sport in Japan: A Multilevel Analysis of Repeated Cross-Sectional National Data during the Pandemic
Authors: Funahashi Hiroaki , Sato Shintaro , Furukawa Takuya
Published: April 2022

In the current investigation, we assess the effect of COVID-19 on intention-based spectator demand for professional sports in Japan captured by eight, monthly repeated cross-sectional national surveys from May to December 2020 (n = 20,121). We regress spectator demand on individual (e.g., gender), prefecture-wave (e.g., COVID-19 infection status), and prefecture-level factors (i.e., with or without quality professional teams). The results of multilevel logistic regression demonstrate that individual (i.e., male, younger, full-time employment, and with children status) and prefecture-level team factors (i.e., with teams) were associated with intention-based spectator demand. Nevertheless, COVID-19-related factors were found to be unrelated to spectator demand. The findings imply that sports fans are likely to return to the stadium once behavioral restrictions are lifted. The current research provided further evidence that individual factors and team quality serve as influential antecedents of spectator demand in the context of the COVID-19 epidemic.
A Cross-Sectional Study about the Associations between Physical Activity Level, Self-Perceived Health Perception and Mental Health in Informal Caregivers of Elderly or People with Chronic Conditions in Spain
Authors: Denche-Zamorano Ángel , Muñoz-Bermejo Laura , Carlos-Vivas Jorge , Mendoza-Muñoz María , Franco-García Juan Manuel , Rojo-Ramos Jorge , Vega-Muñoz Alejandro , Contreras-Barraza Nicolás , Barrios-Fernandez Sabina
Published: April 2022

Providing informal care for older people, or people with chronic conditions, is associated with poorer physical and mental health and reduced quality of life. This task, in many cases, often relies on the women in the immediate family. Physical activity (PA) is a tool to enhance caregivers’ physical and mental health and their quality of life. Thus, this study aimed to analyse the associations between the physical activity level (PAL), self-perceived health (SPH) and mental health (SM) and its factors (positive coping, self-esteem, and stress) by conducting a cross-sectional study by using data from in the National Health Survey 2017 (ENSE 2017), the last one before the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample included 2225 caregivers (866 men and 1361 women). Descriptive analysis and non-parametric statistical tests, including chi-square, the Kruskal–Wallis test, the Mann–Whitney U test, and the Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient, were used. Dependence relationships were found between PAL and SPH and MH and their factors. The population groups that performed moderate or vigorous PA showed better results in both SPH and MH. Women scored worse than men in all the variables analysed. Hence, intense, or moderate PA practice may improve SPH and MH in Spanish informal caregivers, requiring the implementation of policies and programs considering the differences found between men and women in PAL, SPH, and MH.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Health and Experience of the Carers of Older Family Members Living with Dementia: An Italian–Hungarian Comparative Study
Authors: Kostyál László Árpád , Széman Zsuzsa , Almási Virág Erzsébet , Fabbietti Paolo , Quattrini Sabrina , Socci Marco , Gagliardi Cristina
Published: April 2022

This quantitative study (n = 370) compares the pandemic-related experiences of the family carers of older people living with dementia during the first wave of the pandemic, in two countries with different care regimes: Italy (Mediterranean) and Hungary (Eastern European). It aims at answering the following research questions: (1) How did the pandemic affect the subjective health of carers, and what were their experiences with care-related worries and workload? (2) What factors significantly predicted negative changes in these experiences? (3) What were carers’ main difficulties during the first pandemic wave? Results have shown that carers in both samples reported a worsening in mental health (Italy/Hungary: M = 2.25/2.55, SD = 0.93/0.99), and Italian carers also in general health (M = 2.54, SD = 0.98) (on a scale of 1 to 5, with values under “3” representing deterioration). Carers in both samples experienced high worry levels (Italy/Hungary: M = 4.2/3.7, SD = 0.93/0.89) and feeling overwhelmed with care tasks (M = 3.2/3.7, SD = 1.3/1.3) (on a scale of 1 to 5, higher values representing higher worry/work overload). In regression models, all of the above negative experiences were predicted by a combination of factors. Two of these factors stood out in importance due to being a predictor of more than one type of negative experience: a decline in the carer–care receiver relationship, predicting work overload, as well as general and mental health deterioration and being the child of the care receiver, predicting both high worry and subjective work overload. The top five encountered problems were the unavailability of medical and social care, difficulties with shopping (medicine included), restricted freedom, isolation, and anxiety.
Mothers’ Experiences of Childbirth and Perspectives on Korean Medicine-Based Postpartum Care in Korea: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lee Do-Eun , Suh Hyo-Weon , Park Han-Song , Youn Inae , Park Minjung , Seo Joohee
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to record the experiences of childbirth and postpartum care of postpartum women and gain an in-depth understanding of their experiences of Korean medicine-based postpartum healthcare. The investigator conducted a 60–90-min interview with the 8 participants (mean age 34 years), and the comments were analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The two major themes emerging from the participants’ comments were: “experience and awareness of childbirth and postpartum care” and “experiences of the Korean medicine-based postpartum program”. The first theme was analyzed in four primary categories: (1) experiences of breakdown of the body and mind; (2) impossibility of postpartum care without help; (3) experiences of relentless effort for recovery; and (4) experiences of body and mind recovery. The second theme was analyzed in four primary categories: (1) participation with vague expectations; (2) experiences of the effects of managing postpartum symptoms; (3) the need for a comprehensive Korean medicine management for postpartum women; and (4) suggested improvements for the Korean medicine-based postpartum program. Mothers recognized the importance of Korean medicine treatment during the postpartum period for the management of Sanhupung symptoms and postpartum care and reported the benefits of body warming, Sanhupung prevention, pain reduction, and sense of psychological stability.
Evidence of the Relationship between Social Vulnerability and the Spread of COVID-19 in Urban Spaces
Authors: Galacho-Jiménez Federico Benjamín , Carruana-Herrera David , Molina Julián , Ruiz-Sinoga José Damián
Published: April 2022

Modeling the social-spatial structure of urban spaces can facilitate the development of guidelines aimed at curbing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic while also acting as an instrument that helps decision-making concerning mitigation policies. The modeling process starts with categorization of urban spaces based on the concept of social vulnerability. A model is created based on this concept and the theory of analysis of social areas. Statistical techniques of factor analysis and geostatistics are applied. This generates a map of social differentiation that, when related to data on the evolution of the contagion, generates a multidimensional model of social vulnerability. The application of this model towards people (social structure) and the environment where they live (spatial structure) is specified. Our model assumes the uniqueness of cities, and it is intended to be a broadly applicable model that can be extrapolated to other urban areas if pertinent revisions are made. Our work demonstrates that aspects of the social and urban structures may be validly used to analyze and explain the spatial spread of COVID-19.
Anthropological Research Study of Migrants at the First Aid and Reception Center (CPSA) of Lampedusa
Authors: Segneri Maria Concetta , Di Napoli Anteo , Costanzo Gianfranco , Mirisola Concetta , Cavani Andrea , Castaldo Miriam
Published: April 2022

A medical anthropology research study was conducted in 2015 at the First Aid and Reception Center (CPSA) on the island of Lampedusa (Italy) as part of a larger health project carried out by the National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (INMP) in Rome. The study investigated the health conditions of migrants at the moment of their departure and on arrival, their migration journey, and their life plans and expectations for the future. The ethnographic method adopted for the study was based on participant observation and on data collection by means of a semi-structured interview (51 items simultaneously translated by cultural mediators into Tigrinya, Arabic, English, and French). Interviewed were 112 adults (82 men and 30 women) from the Gulf of Guinea and the Horn of Africa. The cooccurrence of forced migration and economic concerns was confirmed; violence and torture were constants throughout the migration journey in 81% of cases. Ethnographic data detailed the timing, countries, settings, perpetrators, and types of violence endured. A combination of qualitative and quantitative findings can both facilitate the identification of fragile health conditions and support clinicians in the diagnostic, therapeutic, and rehabilitation pathways. These data illustrate the importance and feasibility of multidisciplinary collaboration even in emergency contexts.
The Use of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Daily Clinical Practice of a Pediatric Nephrology Department
Authors: Veltkamp Floor , Teela Lorynn , van Oers Hedy A. , Haverman Lotte , Bouts Antonia H. M.
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is lower in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) compared to the general population. In 2011, the KLIK PROM portal was implemented in the Emma Children’s Hospital to monitor and discuss HRQoL in daily care. This study describes and assesses the implementation and use of the KLIK PROM portal in the pediatric nephrology department. (2) Methods: CKD patients (self-report, if 8–18 years of age) and their parents (proxy-report, if 1–8 years) were invited to complete HRQoL patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs): TNO-AZL Preschool children Quality Of Life (TAPQOL) or Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory for Children (PedsQL). The PROMs were completed before and discussed during outpatient consultations. The adaptation rate—the proportion of patients/parents who were invited and completed at least one PROM—was calculated. Reported HRQoL scores of CKD patients were compared to the general population. (3) Results: In total, 142 patients (proxy- and self-report) were invited, 112 patients completed at least one PROM (adaptation rate 79%). Patients (n = 84 with informed consent for scientific use) with CKD reported lower HRQoL and HRQoL was more often impaired compared to the general Dutch population. (4) Conclusions: The implementation of KLIK was successful and its use is feasible for daily care. Using KLIK, HRQoL problems can be easily identified and monitored.
Differences in Tau Seeding in Newborn and Adult Wild-Type Mice
Authors: Ferrer Isidro , Andrés-Benito Pol , Garcia-Esparcia Paula , López-Gonzalez Irene , Valiente Diego , Jordán-Pirla Mónica , Carmona Margarita , Sala-Jarque Julia , Gil Vanessa , del Rio José Antonio
Published: April 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other tauopathies are common neurodegenerative diseases in older adults; in contrast, abnormal tau deposition in neurons and glial cells occurs only exceptionally in children. Sarkosyl-insoluble fractions from sporadic AD (sAD) containing paired helical filaments (PHFs) were inoculated unilaterally into the thalamus in newborn and three-month-old wild-type C57BL/6 mice, which were killed at different intervals from 24 h to six months after inoculation. Tau-positive cells were scanty and practically disappeared at three months in mice inoculated at the age of a newborn. In contrast, large numbers of tau-positive cells, including neurons and oligodendrocytes, were found in the thalamus of mice inoculated at three months and killed at the ages of six months and nine months. Mice inoculated at the age of newborn and re-inoculated at the age of three months showed similar numbers and distribution of positive cells in the thalamus at six months and nine months. This study shows that (a) differences in tau seeding between newborn and young adults may be related to the ratios between 3Rtau and 4Rtau, and the shift to 4Rtau predominance in adults, together with the immaturity of connections in newborn mice, and (b) intracerebral inoculation of sAD PHFs in newborn mice does not protect from tau seeding following intracerebral inoculation of sAD PHFs in young/adult mice.
Functional Screen for microRNAs Suppressing Anchorage-Independent Growth in Human Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Huseinovic Angelina , Jaspers Annelieke , van Splunter Annina P. , Sørgård Hanne , Wilting Saskia M. , Swarts Dorian R. A. , van der Meulen Ida H. , van Beusechem Victor W. , de Menezes Renée X. , Steenbergen Renske D. M.
Published: April 2022

The progression of anchorage-dependent epithelial cells to anchorage-independent growth represents a critical hallmark of malignant transformation. Using an in vitro model of human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced transformation, we previously showed that acquisition of anchorage-independent growth is associated with marked (epi)genetic changes, including altered expression of microRNAs. However, the laborious nature of the conventional growth method in soft agar to measure this phenotype hampers a high-throughput analysis. We developed alternative functional screening methods using 96- and 384-well ultra-low attachment plates to systematically investigate microRNAs regulating anchorage-independent growth. SiHa cervical cancer cells were transfected with a microRNA mimic library (n = 2019) and evaluated for cell viability. We identified 84 microRNAs that consistently suppressed growth in three independent experiments. Further validation in three cell lines and comparison of growth in adherent and ultra-low attachment plates yielded 40 microRNAs that specifically reduced anchorage-independent growth. In conclusion, ultra-low attachment plates are a promising alternative for soft-agar assays to study anchorage-independent growth and are suitable for high-throughput functional screening. Anchorage independence suppressing microRNAs identified through our screen were successfully validated in three cell lines. These microRNAs may provide specific biomarkers for detecting and treating HPV-induced precancerous lesions progressing to invasive cancer, the most critical stage during cervical cancer development.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects and Decreased Formation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps by Enoxaparin in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Saithong Supichcha , Saisorn Wilasinee , Tovichayathamrong Punyot , Filbertine Grace , Torvorapanit Pattama , Wright Helen L. , Edwards Steven W. , Leelahavanichkul Asada , Hirankarn Nattiya , Chiewchengchol Direkrit
Published: April 2022

Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) are a contributing factor of vascular thrombosis and alveolar damage in COVID-19 patients. As enoxaparin is currently used to inhibit vascular thrombosis, this study aimed to investigate whether enoxaparin also reduced inflammation and NETs in COVID-19 patients. Patients with COVID-19 infection were classified into three groups: mild, moderate, and severe (n = 10 for all groups). Plasma was collected from patients and healthy donors (n = 10). Neutrophils isolated from healthy controls were incubated with COVID-19 or healthy plasma, and with or without enoxaparin pretreatment in vitro. Neutrophils and plasma isolated from patients treated with enoxaparin were also investigated. The levels of inflammatory cytokines and NET products such as dsDNA, NE, MPO–DNA and Histone–DNA complexes in plasma and supernatants were measured using immunofluorescence staining and ELISA kits. The expression of inflammatory signaling genes by neutrophils (RELA, SYK, ERK and PKC) was measured using real-time qPCR. The levels of NET products were elevated in the plasma of COVID-19 patients, particularly in the severe group (p < 0.01). Moreover, plasma from the severe group enhanced NET formation (p < 0.01) from neutrophils in vitro. Enoxaparin pretreatment in vitro decreased plasma-induced NETs in a dose-dependent manner and down-regulated the expression of inflammatory genes (p < 0.05). Patients treated with prophylactic enoxaparin showed lower inflammatory cytokine levels and expression of inflammatory genes (p < 0.05). Increased NETs were associated with the severity of COVID-19 infection, particularly in patients with severe pneumonia, and could be used as biomarkers to assess disease severity. Enoxaparin pretreatment inhibited NETs and reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines, and these effects mostly persisted in patients treated with prophylactic enoxaparin.
Bacteria-Derived Protein Aggregates Contribute to the Disruption of Host Proteostasis
Authors: Walker Alyssa C. , Bhargava Rohan , Dove Autumn S. , Brust Amanda S. , Owji Ali A. , Czyż Daniel M.
Published: April 2022

Neurodegenerative protein conformational diseases are characterized by the misfolding and aggregation of metastable proteins encoded within the host genome. The host is also home to thousands of proteins encoded within exogenous genomes harbored by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Yet, their contributions to host protein-folding homeostasis, or proteostasis, remain elusive. Recent studies, including our previous work, suggest that bacterial products contribute to the toxic aggregation of endogenous host proteins. We refer to these products as bacteria-derived protein aggregates (BDPAs). Furthermore, antibiotics were recently associated with an increased risk for neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—possibly by virtue of altering the composition of the human gut microbiota. Other studies have shown a negative correlation between disease progression and antibiotic administration, supporting their protective effect against neurodegenerative diseases. These contradicting studies emphasize the complexity of the human gut microbiota, the gut–brain axis, and the effect of antibiotics. Here, we further our understanding of bacteria’s effect on host protein folding using the model Caenorhabditis elegans. We employed genetic and chemical methods to demonstrate that the proteotoxic effect of bacteria on host protein folding correlates with the presence of BDPAs. Furthermore, the abundance and proteotoxicity of BDPAs are influenced by gentamicin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic that induces protein misfolding, and by butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that we previously found to affect host protein aggregation and the associated toxicity. Collectively, these results increase our understanding of host–bacteria interactions in the context of protein conformational diseases.
Can Selenium Reduce the Susceptibility and Severity of SARS-CoV-2?—A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Majeed Muhammed , Nagabhushanam Kalyanam , Prakasan Priji , Mundkur Lakshmi
Published: April 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 infection is a highly contagious viral infection, which has claimed millions of lives in the last two years. The infection can cause acute respiratory distress, myocarditis, and systemic inflammatory response in severe cases. The interaction of the viral spike protein with the angiotensin-converting enzyme in various tissues causes damage to vital organs and tissues, leading to complications in the post-infection period. Vaccines and antiviral drugs have improved patient response to the infection, but the long-term effect on vital organs is still unknown. Investigations are now focused on supportive nutrient therapies, which can mitigate the susceptibility as well as the long-term complications of COVID-19. Selenium is one such micronutrient that plays a vital role in preventing oxidative stress induced by the virus. Further, selenium is important for effective immune response, controlling systemic inflammation, and maintain overall health of humans. We examine the role of selenium in various aspects of SARS-CoV-2 infection and address the importance of selenium supplementation in reducing the susceptibility and severity of infection in this review.