bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Grey Lotka-Volterra Model in Water-Economy-Industry-Technology Innovation System in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region
Authors: Guo Xiaorui , Wu Lifeng , Wang Meng
Published: July 2022

With the proposal of China’s high-quality development strategy, how to promote regional stability and coordinated development based on a deep understanding of the main contradictions and changes in China’s society has become the focus of research. High-quality development is a brand-new coordinated development concept, which aims to optimize the economic structure, transform the development model, enhance the development momentum, and take innovation as the primary driving force. How to promote the coordinated development of this region has become a hot issue considered by scholars. The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region is the capital economic circle of China, and the purpose of this study is to promote the coordinated and stable development of the region. On this premise, this paper firstly adopts the composite Grey Lotka-Volterra (GLV) model and Fractional GM(1,1) (FGM(1,1)) model to research Water Resources system-Economic System-Industrial System-Technology Innovation System in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Secondly, by analyzing the research data, it is found that the relationship between the system is very complex, and the stability calculation results are all below 0. Then, the analysis of the research results shows that there is no obvious coordination among the three regions, and they have not yet reached a state of mutual promotion and stable and coordinated development. Finally, four suggestions are put forward for the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. This can not only provide direction for the future development of the region but also have reference significance for the development of other regions. Further, accelerate the coordination and unity of all factors of production in China and promote China’s development at a deeper and higher level.
The Need for Psychological Support of Health Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Influence on Their Work
Authors: Santana-López Borja Nicolás , Santana-Padilla Yeray Gabriel , Bernat-Adell María Desamparados , González-Martín Jesús María , Santana-Cabrera Luciano
Published: July 2022

The aim of this research was to analyze how the need for psychological support of health workers (HCWs) influenced the beliefs, perceptions and attitudes towards their work during the COVID-19 pandemic and to predict the need of psychological assistance. A descriptive transversal study was conducted based on a self-administered questionnaire distributed to health professionals working in the Canary Islands, Spain. The data were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-squared test and the linear trend test. The correlation test between ordinal and frequency variables was applied using Kendall’s Tau B. Multiple logistic regression was used to predict dichotomous variables. The sample included 783 health professionals: 17.8% (n = 139) of them needed psychological or psychiatric support. Being redeployed to other services influenced the predisposition to request psychological help, and HCWs who required psychological support had more negative attitudes and perceptions towards their work. After five waves of COVID-19, these HCWs reported to be physically, psychologically and emotionally exhausted or even “burned out”; they did not feel supported by their institutions. The commitment of health personnel to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic decreased after the five waves, especially among professionals who required psychological support.
Interventions to Reduce Pesticide Exposure from the Agricultural Sector in Africa: A Workshop Report
Authors: Röösli Martin , Fuhrimann Samuel , Atuhaire Aggrey , Rother Hanna-Andrea , Dabrowski James , Eskenazi Brenda , Jørs Erik , Jepson Paul C. , London Leslie , Naidoo Saloshni , Rohlman Diane S. , Saunyama Ivy , van Wendel de Joode Berna , Adeleye Adeoluwa O. , Alagbo Oyebanji O. , Aliaj Dem , Azanaw Jember , Beerappa Ravichandran , Brugger Curdin , Chaiklieng Sunisa , Chetty-Mhlanga Shala , Chitra Grace A. , Dhananjayan Venugopal , Ejomah Afure , Enyoh Christian Ebere , Galani Yamdeu Joseph Hubert , Hogarh Jonathan N. , Ihedioha Janefrances N. , Ingabire Jeanne Priscille , Isgren Ellinor , Loko Yêyinou Laura Estelle , Maree Liana , Metou’ou Ernest Nkoum , Moda Haruna Musa , Mubiru Edward , Mwema Mwema Felix , Ndagire Immaculate , Olutona Godwin O. , Otieno Peter , Paguirigan Jordan M. , Quansah Reginald , Ssemugabo Charles , Solomon Seruwo , Sosan Mosudi B. , Sulaiman Mohammad Bashir , Teklu Berhan M. , Tongo Isioma , Uyi Osariyekemwen , Cueva-Vásquez Henry , Veludo Adriana , Viglietti Paola , Dalvie Mohamed Aqiel
Published: July 2022

Despite the fact that several cases of unsafe pesticide use among farmers in different parts of Africa have been documented, there is limited evidence regarding which specific interventions are effective in reducing pesticide exposure and associated risks to human health and ecology. The overall goal of the African Pesticide Intervention Project (APsent) study is to better understand ongoing research and public health activities related to interventions in Africa through the implementation of suitable target-specific situations or use contexts. A systematic review of the scientific literature on pesticide intervention studies with a focus on Africa was conducted. This was followed by a qualitative survey among stakeholders involved in pesticide research or management in the African region to learn about barriers to and promoters of successful interventions. The project was concluded with an international workshop in November 2021, where a broad range of topics relevant to occupational and environmental health risks were discussed such as acute poisoning, street pesticides, switching to alternatives, or disposal of empty pesticide containers. Key areas of improvement identified were training on pesticide usage techniques, research on the effectiveness of interventions targeted at exposure reduction and/or behavioral changes, awareness raising, implementation of adequate policies, and enforcement of regulations and processes.
Pinch Grip per SE Is Not an Occupational Risk Factor for the Musculoskeletal System: An Experimental Study on Field
Authors: Sala Emma , Lopomo Nicola Francesco , Romagnoli Francesco , Tomasi Cesare , Fostinelli Jacopo , De Palma Giuseppe
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Some ergonomic evaluation methods define pinch grip as a risk factor independent of the exerted force. The present experimental study was performed with the main aim of objectively measuring the muscle engagement during the execution of pinch grip. Methods: the participants of the study were healthy workers occupationally involved in a high-intensity repetitive job related to the sorting of letters and small packages. Surface electromyography (sEMG) was used to study the activity of the abductor pollicis brevis and first dorsal interosseous fibers related to the execution of the required working tasks, while the force exerted during voluntary muscle contraction for pinch grip was measured by a portable acquisition system. The subjects were specifically asked to exert the maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and further voluntary isometric contractions with a spontaneous force (SF) equal to 10%,20% and 50% of the MVIC; finally, the workers were asked to hold in pinch grip two types of envelopes, weighing 100 g and 500 g, respectively. Results: The force required to pinch 100 and 500 g envelopes by the fifteen subjects of the study corresponded to 4 and 5% MVIC, respectively. The corresponding sEMG average rectified values (ARV) were approximately 6% of that at MVIC for first dorsal interosseus (FDI) fibers and approximately 20–25% of MVIC for abductor pollicis brevis (ABP) fibers. Bivariate correlation analysis showed significant relationships between force at MVIC and FDI ARV at MCV. Conclusions: The obtained results demonstrate that muscle recruitment during pinch grip varies as a function of the SF: not only the position but also the exerted force should be considered when assessing the pinch grip as risk factor for biomechanical overload of the upper limb.
Movement Pandemic Adaptability: Health Inequity and Advocacy among Latinx Immigrant and Indigenous Peoples
Authors: Espinoza-Kulick Mario Alberto Viveros
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated longstanding inequities in resources and healthcare, stacked on top of historical systems that exploit immigrants and communities of color. The range of relief, mutual aid, and advocacy responses to the pandemic highlights the role of social movement organizations in addressing the ways that immigration status creates systemic barriers to adequate health and wellbeing. This paper conceptualizes what I call, “movement pandemic adaptability,” drawing from a decolonial-inspired study including participant-observation (September 2018–September 2020), interviews (n = 31), and focus groups (n = 12) with community members and health advocates. Data collection began before the COVID-19 pandemic (September 2018–February 2019) and continued during its emergence and the initial shelter-in-place orders (March 2019–September 2020). Movement pandemic adaptability emerged as a strategy of drawing from pre-existing networks and solidarities to provide culturally relevant resources for resilience that addressed vulnerabilities created by restrictions against undocumented people and language barriers for communities that speak Spanish and a range of Indigenous languages. This paper presents how the relationship between immigration status and health is influenced by the local context, as well as the decisions of advocates, policymakers, and community members.
The Influence of Acute Aerobic Exercise on Craving Degree for University Students with Mobile Phone Dependency: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yang Guan , Shangguan Rulan , Ke Yuanyuan , Wang Songtao
Published: July 2022

These days, mobile phone dependency (MPD) has become one of the most imperative and impressive puzzles in the area of behavioral addictions and public health across the world, especially the individuals with MPD that might frequently crave using mobile phones themselves. The target of the current study was to determine whether moderate-intensity aerobic exercise could reduce the craving degree for mobile phones for university students with MPD by a randomized, controlled trial. Sixty Chinese undergraduates, including 30 male and 30 female students aged from 18 to 22 years (20.08 ± 1.94 years) with MPD were recruited and then randomly assigned to the exercise group (n = 30) or the control group (n = 30) with even numbers by gender and major. Participants in the exercise group were required to perform an acute moderate-intensity treadmill exercise lasting for 30 min at 45–68% heart rate reserve (HRR) with background music, while the control group were only asked to listen to the same music for 40 min without any exercise. Sport watches were employed to monitor their heart rate (HR), and the exercise group was also obliged to report their rating of perceived exertion (RPE). After completing the experimental task, a visual analog scale (VAS) was used to evaluate their craving degree for mobile phones, and an independent samples t-test was computed to reveal the difference in the scores of craving degree for mobile phones between the two groups. The results showed that the VAS score for the exercise group (3.77 ± 1.36) was significantly lower (p < 0.001) than that of the control group (6.11 ± 1.39). The findings suggested that acute moderate-intensity aerobic exercise could be an effective and reliable means to help deal with the issue of mobile phones craving for the undergraduates with MPD, and more longitudinal intervention studies and control trial designs should be conducted in the near future to further test the long-term effects of this exercise.
The Relationship between Personality, Motivation and Academic Performance at Medical Students from Romania
Authors: Muntean Lorena Mihaela , Nireștean Aurel , Sima-Comaniciu Andreea , Mărușteri Marius , Zăgan Cătălin Andrei , Lukacs Emese
Published: July 2022

The academic and health system requirements are constantly growing due to the continuous development of this sector. Therefore, it is important to investigate the structural factors that improve performance in the medical system. The aim of our pilot study is to analyze if there are associations or correlations between personality and motivation and the results obtained for the National Residency Exam of Romanian medical graduates. We conducted a prospective pilot study on 179 medical students from George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu Mures, Romania between February 2021 and December 2021, who were evaluated by the DECAS, IM, and SPM scale. Our results showed that all the dimensions of personality according to the Big Five Model, which include openness (OR = 0.392, p = 0.01), extraversion (OR = 0.512, p = 0.03), conscientiousness (OR = 3.671, p = 0.004), agreeableness (OR = 2.791, p = 0.07), and emotional stability (OR = 4.863, p = 0.0003), are statistically associated with the result obtained. Motivation also plays an important role in academic achievements, through motivational persistence and motivational involvement which correlates with the conscientiousness dimension and the result obtained. This study confirms that both personality structure and motivation are associated or correlated with the academic results of medical students and represent a starting point for future research.
Material Security Scale as a Measurement of Poverty among Key Populations At-Risk for HIV/AIDS in Malaysia: An Implication for People Who Use Drugs and Transgender People during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mohd Salleh Nur Afiqah , Ahmad Ahsan , Vicknasingam Balasingam , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Yahya 'Abqariyah
Published: July 2022

The HIV epidemic is fueled by poverty; yet, methods to measure poverty remain scarce among populations at risk for HIV infection and disease progression to AIDS in Malaysia. Between August and November 2020, using data from a cross-sectional study of people who use drugs, (PWUD), transgender people, sex workers and men who have sex with men, this study examined the reliability and validity of a material security scale as a measurement of poverty. Additionally, we assessed factors associated with material security scores. We performed confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for 268 study participants included in the analysis. A revised nine-item three-factor structure of the material security scale demonstrated an excellent fit in CFA. The revised material security score displayed good reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.843, 0.826 and 0.818 for housing, economic resources and basic needs factors, respectively. In a subsequent analysis, PWUD and transgender people were less likely to present good material security scores during the pandemic, compared to their counterparts. The revised nine-item scale is a useful tool to assess poverty among key populations at-risk for HIV/AIDS with the potential to be extrapolated in similar income settings.
Converting Bilateral Free-End Removable Partial Dentures to Implant-Assisted Removable Partial Dentures Using 6 mm Short Implants: Patient-Reported Outcomes of a Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Abou-Ayash Samir , Rudaz Anne-Carole , Janner Simone , Kraus Dominik , Schimmel Martin , Enkling Norbert
Published: July 2022

The study assessed oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of patients who received two 6 mm short implants in mandibular molar sites, converting existing bilateral free-end removable partial dentures (RPDs) to implant-assisted RPDs (IARPDs). After a postsurgical healing period of 4 months, the participants received a non-retentive dome abutment for 8 weeks, and then a retentive ball abutment for another 8 weeks. Afterwards, the participants made their final choice on which abutment to keep. The final follow-up was 1 year after implant placement. OHRQoL was evaluated with the 49-items version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-49) at the abutment exchanges and the final follow-up. Furthermore, numerical rating scales were used to analyze patient satisfaction after 1 year. Questionnaire data of 13 participants were evaluated. Overall, OHRQoL increased with both the dome (p = 0.02) and the ball abutments (p < 0.001), without a significant difference between the abutments (p = 0.953). The questionnaires revealed an improvement in terms of oral situation, quality of life, and masticatory capacity (all p < 0.01). Patients showed a significant preference for the ball abutments (p < 0.001). Converting RPDs to IARPDs resulted in significant improvement of OHRQoL. Patients seem to prefer retentive over non-retentive abutments, although no differences in terms of OHRQoL were observed.
Comparison of Clonazepam and Tongue Protector in the Treatment of Burning Mouth Syndrome
Authors: Zborowski Jacek , Konopka Tomasz
Published: July 2022

Background: BMS is a chronic pain syndrome affecting the oral mucosa. It consists of experiencing a burning or dysesthetic sensation. BMS prevalence varies, with up to 15% among women. An effective treatment is still unattainable. Material and Methods: A total of 60 patients with BMS qualified for a randomised trial, divided in two groups: the clonazepam-treated and tongue protector group. Treatment was provided for 4 weeks in both groups. In the former, the oral dosage of clonazepam 0.5 mg; in the latter, a tongue protector was used. Clinical oral examination was performed, and the presence of taste disorder and pain intensity, on the visual analogues scale, were recorded. Psychological domains were explored with the Beck depression inventory (depression), Athens insomnia scale (insomnia), Eyesenck personality questionnaire-revised (personality traits), and WHO quality of life questionnaire (quality of life). Results: Complete recovery was observed in three patients after clonazepam and one patient after tongue guard treatment. A greater improvement in the VAS scores, from baseline to the control values, was demonstrated in the clonazepam group, and it was statistically significant. In women, the level of depression significantly correlated with all domains of quality of life. Conclusions: BMS is an ongoing multi-specialist challenge. The development of new pathophysiological concepts of BMS offers hope for more effective treatment. Considering the influence of BMS on the quality of life and mental disorders in most patients, further research on the possibilities of therapy seems to be very important.
Regulation and Certification of (Bio)Medical Engineers: A Case Study on Romania
Authors: Miculescu Marian , Ion Oana Andreea
Published: July 2022

This paper analyzes the Romanian biomedical engineering educational path and certification process in European and international contexts and emphasizes the existence of a deficient operationalization of this qualification and profession, arguing that the domestic shortcomings are both a consequence of an unquestioned process of adopting European and even international classification schemes, and of insufficiently developed national administrative capabilities to properly implement the aforementioned classification frameworks. The core part of the article investigates the current academic track of the biomedical engineering specialization and scrutinizes the classification of occupations at different jurisdictional levels. The conclusions of the study indicate that one of the possible solutions for improving this unsatisfying status quo comes from a better communication between the national and European levels, and by their pro-active involvement in the international attempts of reviewing and refining the existing frameworks. The article ends with several recommendations and policy proposals meant to strengthen the role of various profession-certifying European documents, as well as to alleviate the regulatory deficiencies that this specialization has at Romanian level, in order to maximize its potential in the labor market.
COVID-19 Fear, Health Behaviors, and Subjective Health Status of Call Center Workers
Authors: Kim Hye-Ryoung , Yang Hwa-Mi
Published: July 2022

Background: Fear may be critical in explaining individual and social behaviors. This study investigates the association between COVID-19 fear and health behavior and subjective health status changes of call center workers in the COVID-19 era. Methods: This cross-sectional study uses an online survey with 339 call center workers. We measured COVID-19 fear, health behaviors, and subjective health, and analyzed with the Macnemar or paired t-test, ANOVA or χ2 test, Scheffe’s test, and multiple linear regression. Results: COVID-19 fear was associated with poor stress management, shorter sleep hours, and binge eating. Moreover, COVID-19 fear and time pressure at work were negatively associated with subjective health status. Conclusion: Strengthening the support system for call center workers to manage the COVID-19 fear might be essential. Moreover, there is a need to improve dense environments and reduce time pressure by ensuring adequate rest time and increasing physical activity.
Spatial Variability of COVID-19 Hospitalization in the Silesian Region, Poland
Authors: Kowalska Małgorzata , Niewiadomska Ewa
Published: July 2022

Assessment of regional variation in the COVID-19 epidemic is an important task for the implementation of effective action in public health, especially in densely populated regions. In this descriptive study, the temporal and spatial variability of morbidity and in-hospital mortality of COVID-19 in the Silesian Voivodship (Poland) was analyzed. Secondary epidemiological data of hospitalized patients due to COVID-19 from 1 March to 31 December 2020 and from 1 January to 31 December 2021 were obtained from the regional registry of the Silesian Voivodship Office in Katowice. A year by year (2020 versus 2021) comparative analysis showed a similar course pattern of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Silesian Voivodeship; with the worst situation occurring in the colder months of the year. The percentage of in-hospital mortality remained at a high level, close to 20% during the second year of observation. The risk of death in patients hospitalized due to COVID-19 increased with the number of comorbidities. The highest number of patients was documented in densely inhabited regions with intensive population movement (Częstochowa and border counties). The epidemiological ‘map’ facilitates the generation of hypotheses needed for the explanation of the observed epidemic hazard in one of the most populated regions of Poland.
How Is Professional Identity Associated with Teacher Career Satisfaction? A Cross-Sectional Design to Test the Multiple Mediating Roles of Psychological Empowerment and Work Engagement
Authors: Sun Binghai , Zhu Feng , Lin Shuwei , Sun Jiayu , Wu Ying , Xiao Weilong
Published: July 2022

(1) Purpose: Previous studies investigated the positive relationship between professional identity and career satisfaction in teachers, but the underlying reasons were not explored. Therefore, the present study explores the mediating effects of two variables, namely, psychological empowerment and work engagement on the relationship between professional identity and career satisfaction. (2) Method: The present study used the professional identity scale, psychological empowerment scale, Utrecht Work Engagement scale and career satisfaction scale to investigate 2104 teachers (Mage = 39.50 years, SD = 8.74) in a province in China. The demographic variables (e.g., gender, age, teaching age) were controlled as covariates to conduct conservative predictions. (3) Result: (a) professional identity is positively related to career satisfaction; (b) psychological empowerment and career satisfaction play parallel mediator roles between professional identity and career satisfaction; (c) psychological empowerment and career satisfaction play serial mediator roles between professional identity and career satisfaction. (4) Limitations: Data were collected by participant self-report. This method may lead to recall bias. Further, we adopted a cross-sectional rather than experimental or longitudinal design, thus precluding causal conclusions. Lastly, it would be useful to validate our findings with a national sample. (5) Conclusions: The present study indicates that the relationship between professional identity is positively associated with teacher career satisfaction. More importantly, professional identity can indirectly make an impact on teacher career satisfaction through the single mediating effects of psychological empowerment and work engagement, and the chain mediating effect, by improving the level of psychological empowerment, and thereby increasing work engagement.
Differences and Influencing Factors of Relative Poverty of Urban and Rural Residents in China Based on the Survey of 31 Provinces and Cities
Authors: Sun Hong , Li Xiaohong , Li Wenjing , Feng Jun
Published: July 2022

China achieved comprehensive poverty eradication under the current standards in 2020, but eliminating absolute poverty does not mean the end of poverty alleviation and reduction; relative poverty will exist for a long time and has become the subject of poverty study. In this paper, the social poverty line (SPL) index is utilized to establish the relative poverty standard, and CHFS2017 is used to compare the regional distribution of relative poverty in China. The results show that the relative poverty in rural areas is more serious than that in urban areas. The rural relative poverty rate in five provinces and cities including Beijing is over 60%, and the rural relative poverty rate in Qinghai is low. The urban relative poverty rate in many provinces and cities of the central and western regions is below 40%, and the relatively high relative poverty rate in the eastern region has drawn attention to the issue of the income distribution. Moreover, a logit model for binary is employed for the influencing factor analysis of the relative poverty of urban and rural residents. The results show that the education year has a negative effect on the relative poverty of urban and rural residents. Happiness has a positive effect on urban residents, government financial expenditure and financial support for agriculture have different effects on rural residents and urban residents. Therefore, we put forward aiming at relative poverty in the rural areas of the central and western regions to reduce financial pressure and increase the benefits of poverty reduction.
Spatiotemporal Regularity and Socioeconomic Drivers of the AQI in the Yangtze River Delta of China
Authors: Yan Dan , Chen Guoliang , Lei Yu , Zhou Qi , Liu Chengjun , Su Fan
Published: July 2022

Air pollution has caused adverse effects on the climate, the ecological environment and human health, and it has become a major challenge facing the world today. The Yangtze River Delta (YRD) is the region with the most developed economy and the most concentrated population in China. Identifying and quantifying the spatiotemporal characteristics and impact mechanism of air quality in this region would help in formulating effective mitigation policies. Using annual data on the air quality index (AQI) of 39 cities in the YRD from 2015 to 2018, the spatiotemporal regularity of the AQI is meticulously uncovered. Furthermore, a geographically weighted regression (GWR) model is used to qualify the geographical heterogeneity of the effect of different socioeconomic variables on the AQI level. The empirical results show that (1) the urban agglomeration in the YRD presents an air pollution pattern of being low in the northwest and high in the southeast. The spatial correlation of the distribution of the AQI level is verified. The spatiotemporal regularity of the “high clustering club” and the “low clustering club” is obvious. (2) Different socioeconomic factors show obvious geographically heterogeneous effects on the AQI level. Among them, the impact intensity of transportation infrastructure is the largest, and the impact intensity of the openness level is the smallest. (3) The upgrading of the industrial structure improves the air quality status in the northwest more than it does in the southeast. The impact of transportation infrastructure on the air pollution of cities in Zhejiang Province is significantly higher than the impact on the air pollution of other cities. The air quality improvement brought by technological innovation decreases from north to south. With the expansion of urban size, there is a law according to which air quality first deteriorates and then improves. Finally, the government should promote the upgrading of key industries, reasonably control the scale of new construction land, and increase the cultivation of local green innovative enterprises.
Association between Recreational Screen Time and Sleep Quality among Adolescents during the Third Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Canada
Authors: Vézina-Im Lydi-Anne , Beaulieu Dominique , Turcotte Stéphane , Roussel-Ouellet Joanie , Labbé Valérie , Bouchard Danielle
Published: July 2022

The study objective was to verify whether recreational screen time was associated with sleep quality among adolescents during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Data collection took place in four high schools in the region of Chaudière-Appalaches (Quebec, Canada) from the end of April to mid-May 2021. Recreational screen time and sleep quality were measured using the French versions of validated questionnaires specifically designed for adolescents. A total of 258 adolescents (14–18 years; 66.3% girls) answered the online survey. Adolescent boys had a higher total mean recreational screen time (454.3 ± 197.5 vs. 300.5 ± 129.3 min/day, p < 0.0001) and a higher total mean sleep quality score (4.2 ± 0.9 vs. 3.9 ± 0.8, p = 0.0364) compared to girls. Recreational screen time (β = −0.0012, p = 0.0005) and frequency of concurrent screen use (sometimes: β = −0.3141, p = 0.0269; often: β = −0.4147, p = 0.0048; almost always or always: β = −0.6155, p = 0.0002) were negatively associated with sleep quality while being a boy (β = 0.4276, p = 0.0004) was positively associated with sleep quality and age (p = 0.6321) was not. This model explained 16% of the variance in adolescents’ sleep quality. Public health interventions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic should target recreational screen time, concurrent screen use and especially girls to possibly improve sleep quality and promote adolescents’ physical and mental health.
New Hyaluronic Acid from Plant Origin to Improve Joint Protection—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Galla Rebecca , Ruga Sara , Aprile Silvio , Ferrari Sara , Brovero Arianna , Grosa Giorgio , Molinari Claudio , Uberti Francesca
Published: July 2022

Background: In recent decades, hyaluronic acid (HA) has attracted great attention as a new treatment option for osteoarthritis. Classical therapies are not able to stop the cartilage degeneration process nor do they favor tissue repair. Nowadays, it is accepted that high molecular weight HA can reduce inflammation by promoting tissue regeneration; therefore, the aim of this study was to verify the efficacy of a new high molecular weight HA of plant origin (called GreenIuronic®) in maintaining joint homeostasis and preventing the harmful processes of osteoarthritis. Methods: The bioavailability of GreenIuronic® was investigated in a 3D intestinal barrier model that mimics human oral intake while excluding damage to the intestinal barrier. Furthermore, the chemical significance and biological properties of GreenIuronic® were investigated in conditions that simulate osteoarthritis. Results: Our data demonstrated that GreenIuronic® crosses the intestinal barrier without side effects as it has a chemical–biological profile, which could be responsible for many specific chondrocyte functions. Furthermore, in the osteoarthritis model, GreenIuronic® can modulate the molecular mechanism responsible for preventing and restoring the degradation of cartilage. Conclusion: According to our results, this new form of HA appears to be well absorbed and distributed to chondrocytes, preserving their biological activities. Therefore, the oral administration of GreenIuronic® in humans can be considered a valid strategy to obtain beneficial therapeutic effects during osteoarthritis.
Impact of Multiple Sclerosis Risk Polymorphism rs7665090 on MANBA Activity, Lysosomal Endocytosis, and Lymphocyte Activation
Authors: González-Jiménez Adela , López-Cotarelo Pilar , Agudo-Jiménez Teresa , Casanova Ignacio , Silanes Carlos López de , Martín-Requero Ángeles , Matesanz Fuencisla , Urcelay Elena , Espino-Paisán Laura
Published: July 2022

Deficiencies in Mannosidase β (MANBA) are associated with neurological abnormalities and recurrent infections. The single nucleotide polymorphism located in the 3′UTR of MANBA, rs7665090, was found to be associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) susceptibility. We aimed to study the functional impact of this polymorphism in lymphocytes isolated from MS patients and healthy controls. A total of 152 MS patients and 112 controls were genotyped for rs7665090. MANBA mRNA expression was quantified through qPCR and MANBA enzymatic activity was analyzed. Upon phytohemagglutinin stimulation, immune activation was evaluated by flow cytometry detection of CD69, endocytic function, and metabolic rates with Seahorse XFp Analyzer, and results were stratified by variation in rs7665090. A significantly reduced gene expression (p < 0.0001) and enzymatic activity (p = 0.018) of MANBA were found in lymphocytes of MS patients compared to those of controls. The rs7665090*GG genotype led to a significant β-mannosidase enzymatic deficiency correlated with lysosomal dysfunction, as well as decreased metabolic activation in lymphocytes of MS patients compared to those of rs7665090*GG controls. In contrast, lymphocytes of MS patients and controls carrying the homozygous AA genotype behaved similarly. Our work provides new evidence highlighting the impact of the MS-risk variant, rs7665090, and the role of MANBA in the immunopathology of MS.
Modeling Lung Carcinoids with Zebrafish Tumor Xenograft
Authors: Carra Silvia , Gaudenzi Germano , Dicitore Alessandra , Cantone Maria Celeste , Plebani Alice , Saronni Davide , Zappavigna Silvia , Caraglia Michele , Candeo Alessia , Bassi Andrea , Persani Luca , Vitale Giovanni
Published: July 2022

Lung carcinoids are neuroendocrine tumors that comprise well-differentiated typical (TCs) and atypical carcinoids (ACs). Preclinical models are indispensable for cancer drug screening since current therapies for advanced carcinoids are not curative. We aimed to develop a novel in vivo model of lung carcinoids based on the xenograft of lung TC (NCI-H835, UMC-11, and NCI-H727) and AC (NCI-H720) cell lines and patient-derived cell cultures in Tg(fli1a:EGFP)y1 zebrafish embryos. We exploited this platform to test the anti-tumor activity of sulfatinib. The tumorigenic potential of TC and AC implanted cells was evaluated by the quantification of tumor-induced angiogenesis and tumor cell migration as early as 24 h post-injection (hpi). The characterization of tumor-induced angiogenesis was performed in vivo and in real time, coupling the tumor xenograft with selective plane illumination microscopy on implanted zebrafish embryos. TC-implanted cells displayed a higher pro-angiogenic potential compared to AC cells, which inversely showed a relevant migratory behavior within 48 hpi. Sulfatinib inhibited tumor-induced angiogenesis, without affecting tumor cell spread in both TC and AC implanted embryos. In conclusion, zebrafish embryos implanted with TC and AC cells faithfully recapitulate the tumor behavior of human lung carcinoids and appear to be a promising platform for drug screening.
The Role of HDACs in the Response of Cancer Cells to Cellular Stress and the Potential for Therapeutic Intervention
Authors: Alseksek Rahma K. , Ramadan Wafaa S. , Saleh Ekram , El-Awady Raafat
Published: July 2022

Throughout the process of carcinogenesis, cancer cells develop intricate networks to adapt to a variety of stressful conditions including DNA damage, nutrient deprivation, and hypoxia. These molecular networks encounter genomic instability and mutations coupled with changes in the gene expression programs due to genetic and epigenetic alterations. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are important modulators of the epigenetic constitution of cancer cells. It has become increasingly known that HDACs have the capacity to regulate various cellular systems through the deacetylation of histone and bounteous nonhistone proteins that are rooted in complex pathways in cancer cells to evade death pathways and immune surveillance. Elucidation of the signaling pathways involved in the adaptive responses to cellular stress and the role of HDACs may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. In this article, we overview the dominant stress types including metabolic, oxidative, genotoxic, and proteotoxic stress imposed on cancer cells in the context of HDACs, which guide stress adaptation responses. Next, we expose a closer view on the therapeutic interventions and clinical trials that involve HDACs inhibitors, in addition to highlighting the impact of using HDAC inhibitors in combination with stress-inducing agents for the management of cancer and to overcome the resistance to current cancer therapy.
A microRNA Signature for the Diagnosis of Statins Intolerance
Authors: Mangas Alipio , Pérez-Serra Alexandra , Bonet Fernando , Muñiz Ovidio , Fuentes Francisco , Gonzalez-Estrada Aurora , Campuzano Oscar , Rodriguez Roca Juan Sebastian , Alonso-Villa Elena , Toro Rocio
Published: July 2022

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD) are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Western societies. Statins are the first-choice therapy for dislipidemias and are considered the cornerstone of ASCVD. Statin-associated muscle symptoms are the main reason for dropout of this treatment. There is an urgent need to identify new biomarkers with discriminative precision for diagnosing intolerance to statins (SI) in patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as evolutionarily conserved molecules that serve as reliable biomarkers and regulators of multiple cellular events in cardiovascular diseases. In the current study, we evaluated plasma miRNAs as potential biomarkers to discriminate between the SI vs. non-statin intolerant (NSI) population. It is a multicenter, prospective, case-control study. A total of 179 differentially expressed circulating miRNAs were screened in two cardiovascular risk patient cohorts (high and very high risk): (i) NSI (n = 10); (ii) SI (n = 10). Ten miRNAs were identified as being overexpressed in plasma and validated in the plasma of NSI (n = 45) and SI (n = 39). Let-7c-5p, let-7d-5p, let-7f-5p, miR-376a-3p and miR-376c-3p were overexpressed in the plasma of SI patients. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis supported the discriminative potential of the diagnosis. We propose a three-miRNA predictive fingerprint (let-7f, miR-376a-3p and miR-376c-3p) and several clinical variables (non-HDLc and years of dyslipidemia) for SI discrimination; this model achieves sensitivity, specificity and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 83.67%, 88.57 and 89.10, respectively. In clinical practice, this set of miRNAs combined with clinical variables may discriminate between SI vs. NSI subjects. This multiparametric model may arise as a potential diagnostic biomarker with clinical value.
Molecular Identification of the G-Protein Genes and Their Expression Profiles in Response to Nitrogen Deprivation in Brassica napus
Authors: Xie Yuyu , Nan Yunyou , Atif Ayub , Hu Wencong , Zhang Yanfeng , Tian Hui , Gao Yajun
Published: July 2022

Heterotrimeric guanine nucleotide binding protein (G-protein) consisting of Gα, Gβ, and Gγ subunits is one of the key signal transducers in plants. Recent studies indicated that G-protein has been proposed as an important mediator of nitrogen responses in rice, wheat, and Arabidopsis. However, little is known about these G-proteins in Brassica napus (B. napus), except for three identified G-proteins, BnGA1, BnGB1, and BnGG2. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to characterize the members of the G-protein gene family in allotetraploid B. napus and to analyze their expression profiles in response to nitrogen deprivation. In total, 21 G-protein family members were identified in B. napus, encoding two Gα, six Gβ, and 13 Gγ. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses showed that although genome-wide triploid events increased the number of genes encoding Gα, Gβ, and Gγ subunits, the gene structure and protein properties of the genes encoding each G-protein subunit were extremely conserved. Collinearity analysis showed that most G-protein genes in B. napus had syntenic relationships with G-protein members of Arabidopsis, Brassica rape (B. rapa), and Brassica oleracea (B. oleracea). Expression profile analysis indicated that Gα and C-type Gγ genes (except BnGG10 and BnGG12 were highly expressed in flower and ovule) were barely expressed in most organs, whereas most Gβ and A-type Gγ genes tended to be highly expressed in most organs. G-protein genes also showed various expression patterns in response to nitrogen-deficient conditions. Under nitrogen deficiency, Gα and five C-type Gγ genes were upregulated initially in roots, while in leaves, Gα was downregulated initially and five C-type Gγ genes were highly expressed in different times. These results provide a complex genetic dissection of G-protein genes in B. napus, and insight into the biological functions of G-protein genes in response to nitrogen deficiency.
Differential MicroRNA Expression in Porcine Endometrium Related to Spontaneous Embryo Loss during Early Pregnancy
Authors: Gu Shengchen , Zang Xupeng , Jiang Lei , Gu Ting , Meng Fanming , Huang Sixiu , Cai Gengyuan , Li Zicong , Wu Zhenfang , Hong Linjun
Published: July 2022

Litter size is an important indicator to measure the production capacity of commercial pigs. Spontaneous embryo loss is an essential factor in determining sow litter size. In early pregnancy, spontaneous embryo loss in porcine is as high as 20–30% during embryo implantation. However, the specific molecular mechanism underlying spontaneous embryo loss at the end of embryo implantation remains unknown. Therefore, we comprehensively used small RNA sequencing technology, bioinformatics analysis, and molecular experiments to determine the microRNA (miRNA) expression profile in the healthy and arresting embryo implantation site of porcine endometrium on day of gestation (DG) 28. A total of 464 miRNAs were identified in arresting endometrium (AE) and healthy endometrium (HE), and 139 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were screened. We combined the mRNA sequencing dataset from the SRA database to predict the target genes of these miRNAs. A quantitative real-time PCR assay identified the expression levels of miRNAs and mRNAs. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were performed on differentially expressed target genes of DEMs, mainly enriched in epithelial development and amino acids metabolism-related pathways. We performed fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and the dual-luciferase report gene assay to confirm miRNA and predicted target gene binding. miR-205 may inhibit its expression by combining 3′-untranslated regions (3′ UTR) of tubulointerstitial nephritis antigen-like 1 (TINAGL1). The resulting inhibition of angiogenesis in the maternal endometrium ultimately leads to the formation of arresting embryos during the implantation period. This study provides a reference for the effect of miRNA on the successful implantation of pig embryos in early gestation.
ZmNRAMP4 Enhances the Tolerance to Aluminum Stress in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Li Hongjie , Wang Ning , Hu Wanpeng , Yan Weina , Jin Xinwu , Yu Yan , Du Chengfeng , Liu Chan , He Wenzhu , Zhang Suzhi
Published: July 2022

Aluminum (Al) toxicity causes severe reduction in crop yields in acidic soil. The natural resistance-associated macrophage proteins (NRAMPs) play an important role in the transport of mineral elements in plants. Recently, OsNrat1 and SbNrat1 were reported specifically to transport trivalent Al ions. In this study, we functionally characterized ZmNRAMP4, a gene previously identified from RNA-Seq data from Al-treated maize roots, in response to Al exposure in maize. ZmNRAMP4 was predominantly expressed in root tips and was specifically induced by Al stress. Yeast cells expressing ZmNRAMP4 were hypersensitive to Al, which was associated with Al accumulation in yeast. Furthermore, overexpression of ZmNRAMP4 in Arabidopsis conferred transgenic plants with a significant increase in Al tolerance. However, expression of ZmNRAMP4, either in yeast or in Arabidopsis, had no effect on the response to cadmium stress. Taken together, these results underlined an internal tolerance mechanism involving ZmNRAMP4 to enhance Al tolerance via cytoplasmic sequestration of Al in maize.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Understanding the Inflammatory Implications of the Microbiome
Authors: Khalyfa Ahamed A. , Punatar Shil , Yarbrough Alex
Published: July 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. It is well known that repeated inflammatory insults in the liver can cause hepatic cellular injury that lead to cirrhosis and, ultimately, hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, the microbiome has been implicated in multiple inflammatory conditions which predispose patients to malignancy. With this in mind, we explore the inflammatory implications of the microbiome on pathways that lead to HCC. We also focus on how an understanding of these underlying inflammatory principles lead to a more wholistic understanding of this deadly disease, as well as potential therapeutic implications.
Global Profiling of Genes Expressed in the Silk Glands of Philippine-Reared Mulberry Silkworms (Bombyx mori)
Authors: de la Peña Pauline Nicole O. , Lao Adria Gabrielle D. , Bautista Ma. Anita M.
Published: July 2022

RNA sequencing was used to assemble transcriptome data for Philippine-reared silkworm and compare gene expression profiles of strains reared in high- and low-temperature environments. RNA was isolated from the silk glands of fifth instar larvae and mRNA-enriched libraries were sequenced using Illumina NextSeq 500. Transcriptome reads were assembled using reference-based and de novo assemblers, and assemblies were evaluated using different metrics for transcriptome quality, including the read mapping rate, E90N50, RSEM-eval, and the presence of single-copy orthologs. All transcriptome assemblies were able to reconstruct >40,000 transcripts. Differential expression analysis found 476 differentially expressed genes (DEGs; 222 upregulated, 254 downregulated) in strains reared in different temperatures. Among the top DEGs were myrosinase, heat shock proteins, serine protease inhibitors, dehydrogenases, and regulators of the juvenile hormone. Validation of some of the top DEGs using qPCR supported the findings of the in silico analysis. GO term enrichment analysis reveals an overrepresentation of GO terms related to nucleotide metabolism and biosynthesis, lipid and carbohydrate metabolic processes, regulation of transcription, nucleotide binding, protein binding, metal binding, catalytic activity, oxidoreductase activity, and hydrolase activity. The data provided here will serve as a resource for improving local strains and increasing silk production of Philippine-reared B. mori strains.