bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Rice Types and Boiling Time on Glycemic Index: An In Vivo Evaluation Using the ISO 2010 Method
Authors: Vîrlan Anna , Coșciug Lidia , Țurcanu Dinu , Siminiuc Rodica
Published: December 2024

Effective blood glucose management is essential for individuals with type 1 diabetes, particularly when dietary adjustments involve staple foods like rice. As a primary carbohydrate worldwide, rice significantly influences the glycemic index (GI) based on its type and cooking method. This study investigated the impact of rice type and boiling duration on the GI in healthy adults using an in vivo approach aligned with ISO 2010 standards. The glycemic response to four rice types (white round-grain, parboiled medium-grain, white long-grain, and whole-grain long-grain) was measured through postprandial blood glucose levels under both standard and extended boiling conditions to assess their implications for dietary glycemic control. Ten healthy participants (mean age 25 years, body mass index (BMI) 23.0 ± 1.6 kg/m2) consumed rice samples containing 50 g of available carbohydrates, prepared under controlled boiling conditions. Postprandial glycemic response was measured at regular intervals over 2 h following ingestion, with glucose solution as a reference food. The GI was calculated based on the incremental area under the glycemic response curve for each rice sample. Extended boiling significantly increased the GI across all rice types. White round-grain rice exhibited the highest relative increase (+15.8%) in the GI, while whole-grain long-grain rice, despite showing a greater percentage increase (+25.4%), maintained the lowest overall GI due to its high amylose and fiber content. Rice types with higher amylopectin content demonstrated faster glycemic responses and higher GI compared to high-amylose types. This study highlights rice type and cooking time as critical factors influencing postprandial glycemic response. Shorter boiling durations may benefit individuals requiring strict glycemic control, particularly those with diabetes, underscoring the importance of personalized dietary guidance for managing glycemic outcomes effectively.
Extraction and Characterization of Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L.) Solid Waste from the Industrial Processing of Fresh-Cut Products for Nutraceutical Use
Authors: Corrias Francesco , Scano Efisio , Milia Massimo , Atzei Alessandro , Casula Mattia , Arru Nicola , Angioni Alberto
Published: December 2024

Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L.) is an herbaceous perennial plant from the Mediterranean Basin, cultivated as a poly-annual crop in different countries. Artichoke produces a considerable amount of waste at the end of the harvesting season in the field (5.2 tons/ha/year, DW) and from the industrial processing of fresh-cut products during the harvesting time (800 tons/year). The qualitative and quantitative phenolic profile and inulin content of artichoke samples from the field and industrial processing waste have been investigated after green extraction. The best operative conditions were achieved using the dried biomass extracted with water at 80 °C for 120 min and a matrix-to-solvent ratio of 1:30. The data obtained showed that the concentration of total polyphenols in fresh artichokes followed this order: stems > heads > leaves > outer bracts. Chlorogenic acid and 3,4 di-O-caffeoylquinic acid were the most concentrated caffeoylquinic derivates, whereas luteolin 7-O-malonyglucoside, luteolin 7-O-glucoside and 7-O-rutinoside were the most abundant flavonoids. The artichoke by-products showed high polyphenolic and inulin values, thus representing an important source of health-promoting biomolecules for application in pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical fields. According to the principles of circular economy, the work scheme proposed in this article, the use of waste and its processing into useful products such as nutraceutical supplies could provide a practical and economic opportunity for companies and farmers involved in the cultivation and industrial processing of artichokes.
Foodomics as a Tool for Evaluating Food Authenticity and Safety from Field to Table: A Review
Authors: Zhang Shuchen , Chen Jianan , Gao Fanhui , Su Wentao , Li Tiejing , Wang Yuxiao
Published: December 2024

The globalization of the food industry chain and the increasing complexity of the food supply chain present significant challenges for food authenticity and raw material processing. Food authenticity identification now extends beyond mere adulteration recognition to include quality evaluation, label compliance, traceability determination, and other quality-related aspects. Consequently, the development of high-throughput, accurate, and rapid analytical techniques is essential to meet these diversified needs. Foodomics, an innovative technology emerging from advancements in food science, enables both a qualitative judgment and a quantitative analysis of food authenticity and safety. This review also addresses crucial aspects of fully processing food, such as verifying the origin, processing techniques, label authenticity, and detecting adulterants, by summarizing the omics technologies of proteomics, lipidomics, flavoromics, metabolomics, genomics, and their analytical methodologies, recent developments, and limitations. Additionally, we analyze the advantages and application prospects of multi-omics strategies. This review offers a comprehensive perspective on the food chain, food safety, and food processing from field to table through omics approaches, thereby promoting the stable and sustained development of the food industry.
Amelioration Effect of Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens ZW3 on Ovalbumin-Induced Allergic Symptoms in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Xu Hanxue , Duan Xiaowei , Wang Yanping , Geng Weitao
Published: December 2024

Previous studies have shown that supplementation with specific probiotics can be used to alleviate allergy symptoms. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anti-allergic effects of Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens ZW3 (ZW3) in ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic mice. The mice were divided into six groups: the food allergy group, positive group (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG), low-dose ZW3 group, middle-dose ZW3 group, high-dose ZW3 group, and the control group involving healthy mice. BALB/c mice were intraperitoneally injected with OVA/complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) for allergy sensitization. Probiotics were administered orally once every two days in the probiotic-treated groups. The allergic score, serum OVA-sIgE, body mass, thymus, and spleen indexes were detected on day 22, and the relative mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines was detected via RT-qPCR. The results suggest that the body weight and thymus index returned to normal levels; allergy scores, serum OVA-sIgE, IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10 expression decreased; and IFN-γ and IL-2 increased significantly in the ZW3 group compared with the allergy group. Furthermore, ZW3 decreased Muribaculaceae and Ruminococcaceae abundance and increased Lachnospiraceae abundance in the intestinal flora. In summary, ZW3 induced anti-allergic effects by increasing Th1 cytokines and decreasing Th2 cytokines, which can remarkably ameliorate the symptoms of an ovalbumin-induced food allergy.
Impact of Chocolate Cadmium on Vulnerable Populations in Serbia
Authors: Nešić Aleksandra , Lučić Milica , Vesković Jelena , Mandić Ljiljana Janković , Momčilović Milan , Miletić Andrijana , Onjia Antonije
Published: December 2024

Chocolate is one of the most popular and widely consumed confectionery products. However, elevated cadmium (Cd) content in this commodity threatens food safety and human health. It is crucial to monitor the presence of Cd in chocolate and to evaluate its associated health risks. This study assessed the Cd levels in milk and dark chocolates from the Serbian market (n = 155). Cadmium concentrations varied between 0.010 and 0.29 mg/kg. The obtained values were used to evaluate the hazard quotient (HQ) and cancer risk (CR). The estimated weekly intakes (EWIs) were below the tolerable limits for all samples. However, in some samples, the EWI reached 60.9% and 63.5% of the tolerable limit for toddlers and other children, respectively. No health risk was found based on the HQ. On the other hand, based on CR values, all chocolate products can be classified as posing a moderate risk. The Monte Carlo simulation indicated that toddlers and other children were more exposed to non-carcinogenic risk, whereas vegetarians, adults, pregnant women, and other children were more exposed to cancer risk. Sensitivity analysis indicates that body weight, exposure frequency, and ingestion rate are the most influential factors for non-cancer and cancer health risks.
Hollow Salt Prepared Through Spray Drying with Alginate Enhances Salinity Perception to Reduce Sodium Intake
Authors: Jiang Qian , Yan Jiayi , Song Chen , Yang Yunning , Chen Guangyuan , Kong Fanhua , Yang Jingfeng , Song Shuang
Published: December 2024

Currently, high-salt diets have become one of the world’s biggest dietary crisis and long-term high-salt diets are seriously detrimental to human health. In response to this situation, the present study proposed a saltiness enhancement strategy using alginate, which is a dietary fibre from brown algae and has many health benefits, such as regulating intestinal microbiota, anti-hypertension and anti-obesity. The comparison of alginates with different viscosities showed that alginate of 1000–1500 cps at a concentration of 1.25 g/L could enhance the saltiness of NaCl solution by 11.5%. Then, a solid salt was prepared through spray drying with 4.83% of this alginate, and its structure was characterised by X-Ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy to confirm its hollow structure with a particle size of 6.25 ± 2.26 μm as well as its crystal structure similar to original NaCl. Moreover, the conductivity monition revealed that the hollow salt exhibited a more rapid dissolution in water and its alginate component increased the adhesive retention of sodium ions on the tongue surface, which both effectively enhanced the sensory perception. Finally, as revealed by the sensory evaluation, the prepared hollow salt showed higher saltiness than that of original table salt and it could reduce sodium intake by 29%. Thus, the hollow salt prepared with alginate in the present study has potential for salt reduction.
Review: Application of Protein-Based Raw Materials in Health Foods in China
Authors: Duan Hao , Liu Gaigai , Liu Jiaqi , Wang Zhuoye , Bao Shuyuan , Chang Xinyue , Yan Wenjie
Published: December 2024

Raw protein materials are beneficial for human health, so they are being increasingly used in health foods. In recent years, there has been more and more research on and applications of raw protein materials, but few teams have conducted a detailed review of the application status of raw protein materials in China’s health foods, the basis for their compliance and use, and the research on their health care functions. Therefore, this review evaluates the application of animal and plant proteins in China’s health foods, the impact of animal and plant proteins on human health, and future research recommendations for animal and plant proteins. This review analyzes and discusses the data on approved health foods that have been verified to contain raw protein materials (mainly including the number of protein health foods approved over the years, the classification of raw protein materials and types of relevant regulations, the analysis of the frequency of use of raw protein materials, and the functions of approved health foods). Through this process, the application of raw protein materials in health foods in China is systematically reviewed. In short, through data analysis, this study found that in 1996~2024, a total of 1142 health foods containing raw protein materials were approved in China, which are mainly divided into animal proteins, vegetable proteins, microbial proteins, and peptide raw materials, and peptide raw materials comprise the majority. The compliance applications of these ingredients are mainly related to China’s five categories of food regulations. The results show the following for health foods containing raw protein materials: in terms of the dosage form, they are mainly solid preparations; according to their functional claims, they mainly help to enhance immunity, help improve bone density, help improve skin moisture, and relieve physical fatigue; and in the application of raw materials, it is found that the use of raw materials such as casein phosphopeptide, soybean protein isolate, whey protein, collagen, spirulina, and other raw materials in products is relatively high. Finally, based on these studies, this paper discusses suggestions for raw protein materials in the future development of health food in China and also discusses the limitations of the current research in this review.
A Survey on the Evaluation of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) Taste in Austria
Authors: Iannilli Emilia , Pötz Emilise Lucerne , Hummel Thomas
Published: December 2024

The umami taste is well validated in Asian culture but remains less recognized and accepted in European cultures despite its presence in natural local products. This study explored the sensory and emotional perceptions of umami in 233 Austrian participants who had lived in Austria for most of their lives. Using blind tasting, participants evaluated monosodium glutamate (MSG) dissolved in water, providing open-ended verbal descriptions, pleasantness ratings, and comparisons to a sodium chloride (NaCl) solution. Discrimination tests excluded MSG ageusia, and basic demographic data were collected. A text semantic-based analysis (TSA) was employed to analyze the emotional valence and descriptive content of participants’ responses. The results showed that MSG was predominantly associated with neutral sentiments across the group, including both female and male subgroups. “Sour” was the most frequent taste descriptor, while “unfamiliar” characterized the perceptual experience. Pleasantness ratings for MSG and NaCl were positively correlated, suggesting that overcoming the unfamiliarity of umami could enhance its acceptance and align it with the pleasantness of salt. These findings advance the understanding of umami sensory perception and its emotional and cultural acceptance in European contexts, offering valuable insights for integrating umami into Western dietary and sensory frameworks.
Study on Starch-Based Thickeners in Chyme for Dysphagia Use
Authors: Li Youdong , Li Lingying , Liu Guoyan , Liang Li , Liu Xiaofang , Zhang Jixian , Wen Chaoting , Xu Xin
Published: December 2024

A dysphagia diet is a special dietary programme. The development and design of foods for dysphagia should consider both swallowing safety and food nutritional quality. In this study, we investigated the rheological properties (viscosity, thixotropy, and viscoelasticity), textural properties, and swallowing behaviour of commercially available natural, pregelatinised, acetylated, and phosphorylated maize starch and tapioca starch. The results showed that all the samples belonged to food grade 3 in the framework of the International Dysphagia Dietary Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) and exhibited shear-thinning behaviour in favour of dysphagia patients, except for the sample containing pregelatinised starch, which was grade 2. Rheological tests showed that the samples had good structural recovery properties. At the same starch concentration, the elastic modulus of phosphorylated cassava starch FSMP was significantly greater than that of the starch solution, whereas that of acetylated starch was significantly less than that of the starch solution, and the combination of acetylated starch and protein led to a significant viscosity reduction phenomenon, resulting in FSMPs with good stability and fluidity; this may provide an opportunity for the incorporation of more high-energy substructures. The textural results showed that all the samples possessed textural properties of low hardness, low adhesion, and high cohesion, all of which could be used as food for dysphagia patients. This study may provide a theoretical basis for the creation and design of novel nutritional foods for dysphagia.
Natural Eutectic Solvent-Based Temperature-Controlled Liquid–Liquid Microextraction and Nano-Liquid Chromatography for the Analysis of Herbal Aqueous Samples
Authors: Santana-Mayor Álvaro , D’Orazio Giovanni , Rodríguez-Delgado Miguel Ángel , Socas-Rodríguez Bárbara
Published: December 2024

In this work, two novel (-)-menthol-based hydrophobic natural eutectic solvents with vanillin and cinnamic acid were prepared and applied as extraction solvents. In this regard, 12 endocrine disruptors, including phenol, 2,4-dimethylphenol, 2,3,6-trimethylphenol, 4-tert-butylphenol, 4-sec-butylphenol, 4-tert-amylphenol, 4-n-hexylphenol, 4-tert-octylphenol, 4-n-heptylphenol, 4-n-octylphenol, and 4-n-nonylphenol and bisphenol A, were studied in a green tea drink. A temperature-controlled liquid–liquid microextraction was used as the extraction method, and nano-liquid chromatography–ultraviolet detection was used as the separation and determination system. Different parameters affecting the compatibility of the non-ionic eutectic solvents with water-polar organic solvent mixtures and chromatographic and detection systems were optimized, including injection/dilution solvent, injection mode, mobile phase composition, and step gradient. With the same purpose, two stationary phases were tested, including XBridge® C18 and a mixed-phase Cogent C30-XBridge® C18. Finally, the greenness and blueness of the methodology were assessed to evaluate the environmental profile and usability of the procedure.
L-Cysteine Treatment Delays Leaf Senescence in Chinese Flowering Cabbage by Regulating ROS Metabolism and Stimulating Endogenous H2S Production
Authors: Gan Linzhi , Mou Zhenliang , Chen Jianye , Shan Wei , Kuang Jianfei , Lu Wangjin , Zhao Yating , Wei Wei
Published: December 2024

Leaf senescence is a major concern for postharvest leafy vegetables, as leaves are highly prone to yellowing and nutrient loss, resulting in reduced commercial value and limited shelf-life. This study aimed to investigate the effect of L-cysteine (L-cys) on postharvest Chinese flowering cabbage stored at 20 °C. The results showed that 0.5 g L−1 L-cys treatment effectively slowed leaf senescence by downregulating chlorophyll degradation genes (BrNYC1, BrNOL, BrPPH, BrPAO, BrNYE, and BrSAGs) and senescence marker gene BrSAG12. Moreover, this treatment exhibited positive influence on the nutritional quality of cabbage. Also, L-cys treatment maintained ROS homeostasis, preventing excessive ROS accumulation and lipid membrane oxidation. L-cys treatment also maintained a higher total antioxidant capacity and scavenging rate of •OH and O2•−. Additionally, L-cys treatment maintained high levels of ascorbate and glutathione and activated antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase) and the expression of the encoding genes. Furthermore, L-cys treatment elevated endogenous H2S levels, which are correlated with increased L-cysteine desulfhydrase activity and the upregulation of H2S biosynthesis-related genes. These findings suggest that L-cys can delay leaf senescence by reducing chlorophyll breakdown, maintaining ROS homeostasis, and stimulating endogenous H2S production.
Variations in the Impact of Gingerols’ Conversion to Shogaols on the Properties of Corn Starch with Different Amylose Contents
Authors: Han Zhong , Xiao Wenhao , Geng Yuhuan , Cai Diejia , Zeng Xin’an , Zhao Wei , Gao Wenhong , Ma Ji
Published: December 2024

The polyphenol–starch complex has become a hot research topic since it is evident that this modification method can alter the physicochemical properties of starch as well as improve its nutritional value. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of ginger polyphenol gingerols (GNs) and shogaols (SNs) on the structure of starch with different amylose content (WCS, CS, G56, G80). Textural and rheological results indicated that GNs and SNs had more pronounced inhibitory retrogradation effects for relative low-level amylose starches (WCS and CS) compared to relative high-level amylose starches (G56 and G80). GNs and SNs improved the freeze–thaw stability of starch gels. FT-IR and XRD results revealed that GNs and SNs decreased the (short- and long-range) ordered structure of starches through a non-covalent interaction. Moreover, DSC results proved that the gelatinisation temperature of CS/G56/G80 significantly increased, and the enthalpy (ΔH) decreased by the incorporation of GNs and SNs. Overall, this in-depth study is beneficial in providing valuable pathways for starch–polyphenol interactions to improve the quality of starchy foods.
Fractal Characteristics of the Spatial Distribution of Mine Earthquake Sources in the Vicinity of a Fault: A Case Study in the Ashele Copper Mine
Authors: Zhao Congcong , Fu Shigen , Huang Yinghua
Published: December 2024

Potential faults are common sensitive geological bodies that affect the safe mining of underground mines, often leading to major accidents such as rock instability and rockburst during mining. The failure mechanism of faults has been widely studied. However, due to the spatiotemporal specificity of fault occurrence, there are few theoretical and mathematical methods suitable for effective analysis in mine safety risk management. This study aims to introduce fractal theory to characterize the spatiotemporal activity fractal characteristics of induced faults intersecting the mining site and roadway during the mining process of the Ashele copper mine in China. Using microseismic systems and fractal theory, a spatiotemporal fractal model of the fault slip process is constructed, and a fractal analysis method is proposed. The fractal dimension value is calculated based on the spatiotemporal parameters of different segments and stages. The fractal dimension is used to characterize and analyze the evolution of the fault. The physical formation process of potential faults and the relationship between fractal dimension values and multiple parameters, including spatial clustering, regional distribution characteristics, and energy-release characteristics, were analyzed based on the division of events into different time stages. Discovering fractal dimension’s temporal and spatial–temporal characteristics can provide technical references for mine disaster prevention.
Utilization of RT-PCR and Optical Genome Mapping in Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia with Cryptic PML::RARA Rearrangement: A Case Discussion and Systemic Literature Review
Authors: George Giby V. , Elsadawi Murad , Evans Andrew G. , Ali Sarmad , Zhang Bin , Iqbal M. Anwar
Published: December 2024

Background: Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is characterized by abnormal promyelocytes and t(15;17)(q24;q21) PML::RARA. Rarely, patients may have cryptic or variant rearrangements. All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)/arsenic trioxide (ATO) is largely curative provided that the diagnosis is established early. Methods: We present the case of a 36-year-old male who presented with features concerning for disseminated intravascular coagulation. Although the initial diagnostic work-up, including pathology and flow cytometry evaluation, suggested a diagnosis of APL, karyotype and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), using the PML/RARA dual fusion and RARA breakapart probes, were negative. We performed real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and optical genome mapping (OGM) to further confirm the clinicopathological findings. Results: RT-PCR revealed a cryptic PML::RARA fusion transcript. OGM further confirmed the nature and orientation of a cryptic rearrangement with an insertion of RARA into PML at intron 3 (bcr3). In light of these findings, we performed a systematic literature review to understand the prevalence, diagnosis, and prognosis of APL with cryptic PML::RARA rearrangements. Conclusions: This case, in conjunction with the results of our systematic literature review, highlights the importance of performing confirmatory testing in FISH-negative cases of suspected APL to enable prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Advances in the Structure, Function, and Regulatory Mechanism of Plant Plasma Membrane Intrinsic Proteins
Authors: Li Xueting , Guo Yirong , Ling Qiuping , Guo Zhejun , Lei Yawen , Feng Xiaomin , Wu Jiayun , Zhang Nannan
Published: December 2024

Plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs), as members of the aquaporin (AQPs) family, can transport not only water but also urea, CO2, H2O2, metal ions, and trace elements. They are crucial for maintaining water balance, substance transport, and responding to various stresses. This article delves into the structure, function, response mechanism, molecular mechanism, and regulatory mechanism of PIPs as a result of biological and abiotic stresses. It also summarizes current research trends surrounding PIPs and highlights potential research directions for further exploration. The aim is to assist researchers in related fields in gaining a more comprehensive understanding and precise insight into the advancements in PIP research.
Whole Genome Sequencing and Comparative Genomics Analysis of Goat-Derived Klebsiella oxytoca
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhang Zhenxing , Wang Ziying , Chen Yimei , Liao Lianjie , Du Li , Gao Hongyan , Chen Qiaoling , Man Churiga , Chen Si , Wang Fengyang
Published: December 2024

Background: This research aims to enhance the genomic database of Klebsiella oxytoca by identifying virulence genes through the whole genome sequencing and comparative analysis of a goat-derived K. oxytoca (KOHN1) strain, while clarifying the relationship between its genetic evolution and virulence, ultimately providing a theoretical foundation for clinical prevention and diagnosis. Methods: Third-generation Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing and second-generation Illumina sequencing were used to sequence the strain and analyze the database annotations. Screening for 10 virulence genes was conducted using PCR. Comparative genomic analyses of the strain KOHN1 with four human-derived K. oxytoca model strains were performed using collinearity analysis, taxonomy classification through ANI analysis, and gene function family analysis. Results: The genome size of the KOHN1 strain was 5,817,806 bp, and the GC content was 55.14%. It contained 5227 predicted coding genes, including 25 rRNA genes, 85 tRNA genes, and 53 sRNA genes. A total of 14 type VI secretion system effector proteins and 146 virulence factor-related genes were annotated. Additionally, eight virulence genes—fimA, fimH, entB, mrkD, clpV, rmpA, vgrG, and hcp—were detected through PCR identification. The strain has 448 drug resistance genes, mainly against β-lactams and fosfomycins. Comparative genomic analysis indicated that its closest relation is the human isolate ASM338647. Conclusions: In this study, the whole genome sequence of a goat-derived K. oxytoca (KOHN1) strain was obtained, revealing its evolutionary relationship with domestic and foreign isolates and providing a reference for future studies on the mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance and the pathogenicity of K. oxytoca.
Risk and Protective Factors for Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors Among Asian American Young Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Li Yong , Chang Tzu-Fen , Zhou Qing , Li Kathryn , Baiden Philip , Kaplan Mark S.
Published: December 2024

Background: Asian American (AA) young adults, including AA college students, may experience more suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) compared to other racial and ethnic groups of the same age. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first systematic review of the risk and protective factors for STBs with a focus on AA young adults. Methods: Informed by the social-ecological perspective and the cultural model and theory of suicide, this study systematically reviews the risk and protective factors for STBs among AA young adults. Based on 22 research articles published between 1998 and 2023, we analyzed and discussed the effects of 37 risk and 15 protective factors at the individual, relationship, community, societal, and cultural levels. Results: Most risk factors are at the individual level (e.g., depressive symptoms and hopelessness), followed by factors at the cultural level (e.g., acculturation and acculturative stress), the relationship level (e.g., family problems and romantic relationship problems), the community level (e.g., verbal threats on campus), and the societal level (e.g., public stigma about mental health). Also, most protective factors are at the individual level (e.g., self-reliance and fear of suicide), followed by the relationship level (e.g., social support and family responsibilities), the community level (e.g., religious affiliations), and the cultural level (desire not to burden others). Conclusions: This systematic review emphasizes the need for future research to explore cultural factors, subgroup differences, and longitudinal designs, while advocating for culturally specific prevention and intervention strategies to improve mental health outcomes for AAYAs.
Improving GPs’ Emotional Intelligence and Resilience to Better Manage Chronic Respiratory Diseases Through an Experiential Online Training Intervention: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Boulougari Katerina , Christodoulakis Antonios , Bouloukaki Izolde , Karademas Evangelos C. , Lionis Christos , Tsiligianni Ioanna
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: High levels of emotional intelligence (EI) and resilience in primary care physicians (PCPs) can help them communicate better with patients, build stronger relationships with colleagues, and foster a positive and collaborative workplace. However, studies have indicated that primary care physicians (PCPs) often do not focus enough on developing these skills. Consequently, the purpose of this mixed methods study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an experiential online training (EOT) intervention in enhancing the EI and resilience of PCPs who treat patients with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs). Methods: A total of 46 PCPs from Greece participated in a 25-hour EOT program, which focused on counseling skills for lifestyle change and breathing techniques for self-regulation. Quantitative data were collected using the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Short Form (TEIQue-SF) and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-25) before, immediately after, and three months post-intervention. Additionally, qualitative data were obtained through written reflections from participants regarding their clinical practice. Results: The results revealed significant improvements in EI and resilience scores immediately after the intervention (ΕΙ: 5.13, SD: 0.65 vs. 5.3, SD: 0.57, p = 0.007; resilience: 76.6, SD: 11.75 vs. 79.83, SD: 10.24, p = 0.029), as well as at the three-month follow-up (ΕΙ: 5.3, SD: 0.57 vs. 5.36, SD: 0.48, p = 0.007; resilience: 79.83, SD: 10.24 vs. 81.03, SD: 7.86, p = 0.029). The thematic analysis of qualitative data identified improvements in five key themes: communication skills, stress management, emotional awareness, resilience, and patient care. Participants reported feeling more confident, empathetic, and effective when interacting with patients, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. The convergence of the quantitative and qualitative findings showed the efficacy of the EOT intervention in enhancing PCPs’ EI, resilience, well-being, and, ultimately, their practice.
The Internet of Things in the Nutritional Management of Patients with Chronic Neurological Cognitive Impairment: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sguanci Marco , Mancin Stefano , Gazzelloni Andrea , Diamanti Orejeta , Ferrara Gaetano , Morales Palomares Sara , Parozzi Mauro , Petrelli Fabio , Cangelosi Giovanni
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The Internet of Things (IoT) technology connects objects to the internet, and its applications are increasingly used in healthcare to improve the quality of care. However, the use of IoT for the nutritional management of patients with chronic neurological cognitive impairment is still in development. This scoping review aims to describe the integration of IoT and its applications to support monitoring, interventions, and nutritional education for patients with chronic neurological cognitive impairment. Methods: A scoping review was conducted using the Cochrane, PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases following the Arksey and O’Malley framework. Results: Of the 1424 records identified, 10 were included in the review. Most of the articles were peer-reviewed proceedings from technology conferences or publications in scientific and technology journals. IoT-based innovations in nutritional management were discussed in methodological articles, case studies, or project descriptions. Innovations were identified across three key areas: monitoring, intervention, and education. Conclusions: IoT technology offers promising innovations for the nutritional management of patients with chronic neurological cognitive impairment. However, IoT capabilities in this field are still in the early stages of development and are not yet highly specific.
Resilience, Post-Traumatic Growth, and Transplant Effects—Gender Differences Following Liver Transplantation: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fernández-Alonso Víctor , Moro-Tejedor María Nieves , Pérez-Gómez Manuela , Leñero-Cirujano Miriam , Hernández-Matías Ana María
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: The state of patients’ health following liver transplantation is influenced by a number of factors. To provide personalized nursing care, it is essential to understand the impact that the transplant has had on the patient’s life. The primary aim of this study was to examine gender differences in the overall health effect following liver transplantation. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Connor–Davidson 10 Resilience Scale, the 21-item Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory, and the Transplant Effects Questionnaire. Data were collected during May–July 2021, and statistical analyses were performed. Results: A sample of 174 liver transplant patients who completed questionnaires were included in this study. Of these, 24.1% were women. Psychological resilience in men was correlated with personal strength, whereas in women, it was associated with relationships with others. Significant gender differences were found in psychological post-traumatic growth since liver transplantation. Additionally, resilience levels were positively and significantly associated with adherence to immunosuppressive therapy following the transplant. However, no mediating or moderating effect of resilience was identified. Conclusions: The results provide valuable insights for validating and improving interventions from a gender perspective. Nursing care must incorporate a gender perspective to deepen our understanding of the emotional determinants and the ability to deal with them.
From Pandemic to COVID-19 Endemic: Mental Health Impact, Psychological and Social Well-Being Among Social Work Students—Implications for the Healthcare System
Authors: Apostol Alexandru-Cosmin , Rădoi Mihaela , Irimescu Gabriela
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Our research paper aims to analyse the relationship between the perceived impact on mental health due to the COVID-19 pandemic, social well-being, and psychological well-being among social work students. As we transition from the pandemic phase to an endemic phase of COVID-19, it is necessary to examine these aspects, recognizing the interdependence and complementarity of social and medical care within the healthcare system. Methods: The research was conducted nearly three years after the lockdown measures imposed by the spread of COVID-19, during a period when onsite academic activities had resumed, as they were prior to the pandemic. The sample consisted of 235 social work students from both bachelor’s and master’s programmes studying at a large university in Romania. Data was collected between December 2022 and January 2023, during a time when onsite educational activities were once again taking place. Results: Our results show that, despite the significant amount of time that had passed since the pandemic began, its negative effects were still strongly felt on a psychosocial level. Conclusions: This finding leads us to conclude that there is a long-term COVID-19 impact on mental health. Most study participants reported experiencing high (42.10%) or moderate (23%) levels of being mentally affected, which also affected their psychological and social well-being, key factors in preparing future social-medical care professionals to provide adequate integrated healthcare services.
A Tissue Culture Technique for Rapid Clonal Propagation, Microrhizome Induction, and RAPD Analysis of Kaempferia grandifolia Saensouk & Jenjittikul—A Rare Plant Species in Thailand
Authors: Nonthalee Sukanya , Saensouk Surapon , Maneechai Suthira , Souladeth Phetlasy , Saensouk Piyaporn
Published: December 2024

Kaempferia grandifolia Saensouk & Jenjittikul (Zingiberaceae), a rare plant species in Thailand, is commonly used as a medicinal plant, while the young leaves are cooked and eaten as a vegetable. This study focused on the in vitro propagation of K. grandifolia plants to induce the development of shoots, roots, microrhizomes, and acclimatization. The genetic variations between plants grown under in vitro propagation and plants grown in nature were also assessed. An efficient protocol was developed for in vitro propagation of K. grandifolia using microshoots (0.5 cm in length). The optimal responses for shoot multiplication (4.78 ± 1.15 shoots/explant) and root induction (11.56 ± 1.39 roots/explant) were obtained within 8 weeks in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 3 mg/L of 6-benzylamino purine (BAP) plus 0.5 mg/L of NAA. Microrhizome induction was 80% when the shoot buds were cultured on MS medium supplemented with 2 mg/L of BAP, 1 mg/L of NAA, 11 µM of silver nitrate (AgNO3), and 70 g/L of sucrose after 20 weeks. The survival rate of plantlets was 100% when transplanted to soil and sand. Micropropagated and field-grown donor plants of K. grandifolia showed 91.49% genetic similarity through RAPD analysis.
Antibacterial and Mosquito Repellent Potential of Eight Citrus Cultivars and Their Chemical Composition
Authors: Nawaz Mehwish , Ullah Bait , Abbas Muhammad Ghazanfar , Binyameen Muhammad , Apšegaitė Violeta , Mozūraitis Raimondas , Azeem Muhammad
Published: December 2024

Citrus fruit peels are a rich source of essential oils (EOs), which contain biologically active compounds; however, they are often discarded as waste, which causes pollution. The fresh peels of eight citrus cultivars growing in Pakistan were used to extract EOs through steam distillation. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of fresh peel EOs revealed that limonene was the most abundant compound, constituting 94.5%, 96.1%, 95.3%, 93.3%, 56.2%, 91.5%, 96.4%, and 96.7% of Citrus jambhiri, C. aurantium, C. sinensis var. Malta cv. Blood Malta, C. sinensis var. Malta cv. Shakri Malta, C. limon, C. pseudolimon, C. reticulata var. Mandarin cv. Feutrell’s Early, and C. reticulata var. Mandarin cv. Kinnow, respectively. The dried peel EO of C. reticulata var. Mandarin cv. Kinnow contained 95.2% limonene. C. limon peel EO exhibited the highest antibacterial activity among all citrus peel EOs with the minimum inhibitory concentration of 312 μg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus. The C. aurantium and C. sinensis var. Malta cv. Shakri Malta peel EOs exhibited the highest mosquito repellent activity against Ae. aegypti females, providing protection for 45 min when tested at a concentration of 166 µg/cm2. This study showed C. aurantium and Shakri Malta peel EOs could be used to formulate natural mosquito repellent.
A Qualitative Exploration of Relations Between Salutogenesis and Persistent Music Performance Among Refugees Resettled in the United States
Authors: Muriithi Bernard Austin Kigunda , Muriithi Jennifer
Published: December 2024

In its broadest meaning, salutogenesis denotes an orientation toward the origins and assets for positive health, as opposed to the origins and risk factors associated with disease (i.e., pathogenesis). While salutogenesis continues to inspire health promotion, it has been noted that qualitative studies can further its understanding and broaden its use in research, clinical practice, and policies. The present study is based on an analysis of structured and unstructured recorded interviews with six refugee musicians. Applying interpretive phenomenological analysis, we comparatively explored the factors contributing to persistence in music between participants. Five factors were found: (a) long-term participation and identity as musicians; (b) desirable effects of music performance; (c) competence, talent, and social recognition; (d) management of social and cultural differences; and (e) locally organized refugee events. The links between music performance and salutogenesis include the following: (1) the inclusion of salutogenic orientation (in addition to pathogenic orientation) toward health; (2) that music invigorated generalized resistance resources so that their expression was augmented, steady, and enduring; and (3) that a high sense of coherence (SOC) was demonstrated. Future studies are needed to reveal whether other activities can take similar roles in developing SOC, and experimental studies are needed before health policy recommendations regarding activities can be made for people that need improved SOC.
The Indirect Effects of Fathers’ Parenting Style and Parent Emotion Regulation on the Relationship Between Father Self-Efficacy and Children’s Mental Health Difficulties
Authors: Carbone Alicia , Pestell Carmela , Nevill Thom , Mancini Vincent
Published: December 2024

Improving parental self-efficacy has been linked with reductions in child mental health difficulties; however, underlying mechanisms remain unclear, especially for fathers. This study investigated whether father self-efficacy influences child mental health difficulties indirectly through parenting style and parent-facilitated regulation of children’s negative emotions. A community sample of American fathers (N = 350, M = 39.45 years old) completed self-reports on father self-efficacy, parenting styles, parent-facilitated emotion regulation, and their children’s mental health difficulties (aged 4–12). Path analysis was used to test a cross-sectional, parallel–sequential indirect effect model. Father self-efficacy had a significant indirect effect on child mental health difficulties via three significant pathways of permissive parenting, authoritative parenting–acceptance of child’s negative emotions, and authoritarian parenting–avoidance of child’s negative emotions. Our model explained a moderate amount of variance in child mental health difficulties. The findings support promoting father self-efficacy through parenting interventions and highlight parenting beliefs as important for clinicians providing child mental health care.
Conventional and Tropism-Modified High-Capacity Adenoviral Vectors Exhibit Similar Transduction Profiles in Human iPSC-Derived Retinal Organoids
Authors: McDonald Andrew , Gallego Carmen , Andriessen Charlotte , Orlová Michaela , Gonçalves Manuel A. F. V. , Wijnholds Jan
Published: December 2024

Viral vector delivery of gene therapy represents a promising approach for the treatment of numerous retinal diseases. Adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV) constitute the primary gene delivery platform; however, their limited cargo capacity restricts the delivery of several clinically relevant retinal genes. In this study, we explore the feasibility of employing high-capacity adenoviral vectors (HC-AdVs) as alternative delivery vehicles, which, with a capacity of up to 36 kb, can potentially accommodate all known retinal gene coding sequences. We utilized HC-AdVs based on the classical adenoviral type 5 (AdV5) and on a fiber-modified AdV5.F50 version, both engineered to deliver a 29.6 kb vector genome encoding a fluorescent reporter construct. The tropism of these HC-AdVs was evaluated in an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived human retinal organoid model. Both vector types demonstrated robust transduction efficiency, with sustained transgene expression observed for up to 110 days post-transduction. Moreover, we found efficient transduction of photoreceptors and Müller glial cells, without evidence of reactive gliosis or loss of photoreceptor cell nuclei. However, an increase in the thickness of the photoreceptor outer nuclear layer was observed at 110 days post-transduction, suggesting potential unfavorable effects on Müller glial or photoreceptor cells associated with HC-AdV transduction and/or long-term reporter overexpression. These findings suggest that while HC-AdVs show promise for large retinal gene delivery, further investigations are required to assess their long-term safety and efficacy.
Transcriptomic Analysis of HPV-Positive Oesophageal Tissue Reveals Upregulation of Genes Linked to Cell Cycle and DNA Replication
Authors: Shafiq Muhammad Osama , Cakir Muharrem Okan , Bilge Ugur , Pasha Yasmin , Ashrafi G. Hossein
Published: December 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection, implicated in various cancers, yet its influence in non-cancerous oesophageal tissue remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the gene expression changes associated with high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) in non-cancerous oesophageal tissue to elucidate potential early oncogenic mechanisms. Using RNA sequencing, we compared transcriptomic profiles of HPV-positive and HPV-negative non-cancerous oesophageal tissues. Differential gene expression analysis revealed significant upregulation of cell cycle and DNA replication pathways in HPV-positive samples, specifically involving key genes such as CCNA2, DSN1, and MCM10, which are known to regulate cellular proliferation and genomic stability. Additionally, kinase and transcription factor enrichment analyses highlighted HR-HPV-associated regulatory molecules, including E2F4 and CSNK2A1, suggesting HPV’s role in modulating host cell cycle control. These findings support the hypothesis that HPV infection may initiate cellular alterations in oesophageal tissue, potentially predisposing it to malignancy. This study contributes to understanding HPV’s impact in non-cancerous tissues and identifies possible biomarkers for early HPV-related cellular changes, offering insights into HPV-driven cancer development beyond traditionally associated sites.
The Critical Role of Autophagy and Phagocytosis in the Aging Brain
Authors: Bondy Stephen C. , Wu Meixia
Published: December 2024

As the organism ages, there is a decline in effective energy supply, and this retards the ability to elaborate new proteins. The consequences of this are especially marked in the gradual decline in brain function. The senescence of cells and their constituent organelles is ultimately the cause of aging of the entire nervous system. What is less immediately obvious is that brain aging is also accompanied by the failure of catabolic events that lead to the removal of non-functional cells and ineffective subcellular components. The removal of non-working cellular and subcellular elements within the brain is essential in order to allow the appearance of fresh cells and organelles with a full range of capacities. Thus, the maintenance of operative mechanisms for the dispersal of failed tissue components is important, and its diminished capacity with aging is a significant contributory factor to the onset and progression of age-related neurological disorder. This report discusses the mechanisms underlying autophagy and phagocytosis and how these can be adversely modulated as aging proceeds. The means by which the effective recycling of cellular components may be reinstated in the aged brain are considered.