bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-Microencapsulation of Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia huayllabambana) Oil with Natural Antioxidants Extracts
Authors: Chasquibol Nancy , Gonzales Billy Francisco , Alarcón Rafael , Sotelo Axel , Gallardo Gabriela , García Belén , Pérez-Camino María del Carmen
Published: May 2023

Sacha inchi (Plukenetia huayllabambana) oil was co-microencapsulated with natural antioxidant extracts (NAE), such as camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia (HBK) Mc Vaugh) fruit, Añil variety Andean potato (Solanum tuberosum andigenum, and elderberry fruit (Sambucus peruviana). Gum Arabic and the ternary combination of gum Arabic (GA) + maltodextrin (MD) + whey protein isolate (WPI) at different formulations were used as coating materials for the encapsulation process using spray-drying. The moisture content, particle size distribution and morphology, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, fatty acid and sterol composition, oxidative stability, and shelf-life were evaluated. Co-microcapsules of sacha inchi (P. huayllabambana) oil with camu camu skin extract (CCSE) at 200 ppm encapsulated with GA + MD + WPI had the highest total polyphenol content (4239.80 µg GAE/g powder), antioxidant activity (12,454.00 µg trolox/g powder), omega-3 content (56.03%), β-sitosterol (62.5%), greater oxidative stability (Oxidation Onset temperature of 189 °C), higher shelf-life (3116 h), and smaller particle sizes (6.42 μm). This research enhances the knowledge to obtain microcapsules containing sacha inchi (P. huayllabambana) oil with natural antioxidant extracts that could be used for the development of functional foods. Further research is needed to study the potential interactions and their influence between the bioactive components of the microcapsules and the challenges that may occur during scale-up to industrial production.
The Interaction Relationship of Aroma Components Releasing with Saliva and Chewing Degree during Grilled Eels Consumption
Authors: Huang Xuhui , Zhao Huilin , Guo Renrong , Du Fei , Dong Xiuping , Qin Lei
Published: May 2023

The interaction perception between aroma and oral chewing during food consumption has always been a hot topic in exploring consumers’ preferences and purchase desires. A chewing simulation system was set to find out the effect of key saliva components and chewing time on odorants released with grilled eel meat. Odor release did not always enhance with the degree of chewing, or the amount of saliva released. The breaking up of the tissue structure of the fish meat by the teeth encourages the release of odorants and the participation of saliva partially blocks this process. The release of pyrazine, alcohol, and acid compounds in grilled eel meat peaked within 20–60 s after chewing. Sufficient exposure of saliva to grilled eel meat will inhibit aromatic, ketone, ester, hydrocarbon, and sulfur compounds release. 3-methyl-2-butanol contributed to the subtle aroma differences that arise before and after eating grilled eel meat. Naphthalene, 2-acetylthiazole, 2-decenal, 2-undecanone, 5-ethyldihydro-2(3H)-furanone were the main odorants released in large quantities in the early stages of eating grilled eel and affected the top note. Consequently, the results provided the odorants information in aroma perception during grilled eel consumption and benefited the objective evaluation of grilled eel product optimization.
Does Preferred Information Format Affect Consumers’ Willingness to Pay: A Case Study of Orange Juice Produced by Biotechnology
Authors: Hu Yang , House Lisa A. , Gao Zhifeng
Published: May 2023

People who received a more personally relevant message were motivated to pay closer attention to the information and actively process it, which ultimately may stimulate behavioral changes. Therefore, preferred information content has been used in many disciplines to promote effective communication. However, no study has explored the impact of preferred information formats (e.g., word, infographic, and video) concerning food production. With the increasing application of biotechnology to food production, a complex topic to communicate, and evidence that consumers were willing to pay less for bioengineered foods, efficient communication was important to impact consumer preferences. The results of this study showed that consumers mostly preferred information format is writing. Providing information in video format did improve consumers’ trust in information about food biotechnology. However, receiving information in consumers’ preferred formats did not significantly change consumers’ WTP for genetically engineered orange juice.
Comparison between Blood, Non-Blood Fluids and Tissue Specimens for the Analysis of Cannabinoid Metabolites in Cannabis-Related Post-Mortem Cases
Authors: Zughaibi Torki A. , Al-Qumsani Latifa , Mirza Ahmed A. , Almostady Amal , Basrawi Jude , Tabrez Shams , Alsolami Faiz , Al-Makki Rami , Al-Ghamdi Sami , Al-Ghamdi Abdullah , Alzahrani Abdulnasser E. , Altowairqi Majda , Alharbi Hassan , Peace Michelle R. , Halwani Majed A. , Al-Asmari Ahmed I.
Published: May 2023

Cannabis use is widespread and is one of the most common drugs encountered in forensic-related analysis (antemortem and postmortem cases). However, the correlation between illicit cannabis use and death is rarely investigated, even while taking into consideration its role in the central nervous system depression and cardiovascular disorders. Few studies have discussed other non-blood specimens; this has brought a special interest in analyzing THC and its metabolites in different body parts in order to make precise forensic decisions. Herein, we are investigating the presence of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its metabolites:(11-hydroxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC-OH) and 11-nor-Δ9- tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxy (THC-COOH)) in different postmortem specimens. Forty-three cases of bodily fluids and tissue post-mortem samples, previously found to be cannabinoid-positive were analyzed in the current investigation using alkaline hydrolysis followed by solid phase extraction and LC-MS/MS for THC and its metabolites concentration. In the current study, the highest median THC-COOH and THC-OH concentrations were detected in bile samples (1380 ng/mL and 8 ng/mL, respectively), while the highest THC median concentration was detected in gastric contents (48 ng/mL). This can be explained due to the postmortem distribution of blood to other bodily fluids and tissues and the accumulation in bile following multiple doses. Furthermore, high THC levels in gastric contents can be explained by the undergoing cycles of entero-hepatic circulation which resulted in a significant increase in THC in gastric contents. THC-COOH can be the best indicator to detect cannabinoids in toxicology studies, thus the inclusion of active THC metabolites is essential in death investigations. Additionally, THC-OH concentrations in postmortem cases could be influenced by body mass index. In this study, all types were specimens found to be suitable for testing cannabinoid metabolites, except for vitreous humor which showed low rates of detectability for cannabinoid metabolites.
Coupled Systems of Nonlinear Proportional Fractional Differential Equations of the Hilfer-Type with Multi-Point and Integro-Multi-Strip Boundary Conditions
Authors: Ntouyas Sotiris K. , Ahmad Bashir , Tariboon Jessada
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we study a coupled system of nonlinear proportional fractional differential equations of the Hilfer-type with a new kind of multi-point and integro-multi-strip boundary conditions. Results on the existence and uniqueness of the solutions are achieved by using Banach’s contraction principle, the Leray–Schauder alternative and the well-known fixed-point theorem of Krasnosel’skiĭ. Finally, the main results are illustrated by constructing numerical examples.
Genome-Wide Identification and an Evolution Analysis of Tonoplast Monosaccharide Transporter (TMT) Genes in Seven Gramineae Crops and Their Expression Profiling in Rice
Authors: Zhou Mingao , Deng Xiaoxiao , Jiang Yifei , Zhou Guoning , Chen Jianmin
Published: May 2023

The tonoplast monosaccharide transporter (TMT) family plays essential roles in sugar transport and plant growth. However, there is limited knowledge about the evolutionary dynamics of this important gene family in important Gramineae crops and putative function of rice TMT genes under external stresses. Here, the gene structural characteristics, chromosomal location, evolutionary relationship, and expression patterns of TMT genes were analyzed at a genome-wide scale. We identified six, three, six, six, four, six, and four TMT genes, respectively, in Brachypodium distachyon (Bd), Hordeum vulgare (Hv), Oryza rufipogon (Or), Oryza sativa ssp. japonica (Os), Sorghum bicolor (Sb), Setaria italica (Si), and Zea mays (Zm). All TMT proteins were divided into three clades based on the phylogenetic tree, gene structures, and protein motifs. The transcriptome data and qRT-PCR experiments suggested that each clade members had different expression patterns in various tissues and multiple reproductive tissues. In addition, the microarray datasets of rice indicated that different rice subspecies responded differently to the same intensity of salt or heat stress. The Fst value results indicated that the TMT gene family in rice was under different selection pressures in the process of rice subspecies differentiation and later selection breeding. Our findings pave the way for further insights into the evolutionary patterns of the TMT gene family in the important Gramineae crops and provide important references for characterizing the functions of rice TMT genes.
Identification and Interpretation of eQTL and eGenes for Hodgkin Lymphoma Susceptibility
Authors: An Yeeun , Lee Chaeyoung
Published: May 2023

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revealed approximately 100 genomic signals associated with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL); however, their target genes and underlying mechanisms causing HL susceptibility remain unclear. In this study, transcriptome-wide analysis of expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) was conducted to identify target genes associated with HL GWAS signals. A mixed model, which explains polygenic regulatory effects by the genomic covariance among individuals, was implemented to discover expression genes (eGenes) using genotype data from 462 European/African individuals. Overall, 80 eGenes were identified to be associated with 20 HL GWAS signals. Enrichment analysis identified apoptosis, immune responses, and cytoskeletal processes as functions of these eGenes. The eGene of rs27524 encodes ERAP1 that can cleave peptides attached to human leukocyte antigen in immune responses; its minor allele may help Reed–Sternberg cells to escape the immune response. The eGene of rs7745098 encodes ALDH8A1 that can oxidize the precursor of acetyl-CoA for the production of ATP; its minor allele may increase oxidization activity to evade apoptosis of pre-apoptotic germinal center B cells. Thus, these minor alleles may be genetic risk factors for HL susceptibility. Experimental studies on genetic risk factors are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of HL susceptibility and improve the accuracy of precision oncology.
Contribution of Geosciences to Cultural Heritage Conservation Assessment: The Case Study of the Loggiato dei Cappuccini in Comacchio (Italy)
Authors: Marrocchino Elena , Paletta Maria Grazia , Ferroni Lorenzo , Manfrini Rino , Telloli Chiara
Published: May 2023

Geoscience disciplines play a pivotal role in the assessment of the conservation state of Cultural Heritage to orient the subsequent restoration interventions. In this report, we exemplify the potential of petrographic and thermographic analyses for the evaluation of the conservation state of a unique symbol of the architectural heritage in the challenging lagoon environment of Comacchio city (Ferrara Province, northeastern Italy). This study focuses on the Loggiato dei Cappuccini, starting from the historical analysis of the maintenance and restorations that this simple and pleasant monument has undergone over time. The degradation morphologies and the related triggering causes, characterized by macroscopic observations, were contextualized based on the recent restoration interventions. The current state of conservation has been evaluated quali-quantitatively, combining optical petrographic analyses of the main construction materials with thermographic analyses of the structures. The results of this study highlight the detrimental effects of previous restoration interventions on the long-term conservation state of the monument, emphasizing the need for a general environmental evaluation preliminarily to any conservative action. In particular, geoscience can contribute to a knowledge-based choice of materials that minimize the risk for alveolization and detachments.
The Development of Recommendations for Healthcare Providers to Support Patients Experiencing Medication Self-Management Problems
Authors: Mortelmans Laura , Goossens Eva , De Cock Anne-Marie , Petrovic Mirko , van den Bemt Patricia , Dilles Tinne
Published: May 2023

Medication self-management problems such as the inability to correctly obtain, understand, organize, administer or monitor medication can result in negative patient outcomes. However, supportive tools for healthcare providers to assist patients with medication self-management problems are lacking. This study aimed to develop recommendations for healthcare providers to support patients with polypharmacy who experience medication self-management problems. A three-phase study was conducted starting with (1) the mapping of medication self-management problems, followed by (2) a scoping review providing a list of relevant interventions and actions for each respective problem and (3) a three-round modified e-Delphi study with experts to reach consensus on the relevance and clarity of the recommended interventions and actions. The cut-off for consensus on the relevance and clarity of the recommendations was set at 80% expert agreement. Experts could propose additional recommendations based on their professional experience and expertise. The experts (n = 23) involved were healthcare professionals (i.e., nurses, pharmacists, and physicians) with specific expertise in medication management of patients with polypharmacy. Simultaneous with the second e-Delphi round, a panel of patients with polypharmacy (n = 8) evaluated the usefulness of recommendations. Results obtained from the patient panel were fed back to the panel of healthcare providers in the third e-Delphi round. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Twenty medication self-management problems were identified. Based on the scoping review, a list of 66 recommendations for healthcare providers to support patients with the identified medication self-management problems was composed. At the end of the three-round e-Delphi study, the expert panel reached consensus on the relevance and clarity of 67 recommendations, clustered according to the six phases of the medication self-management model by Bailey et al. In conclusion, this study resulted in a guidance document including recommendations that can serve as a resource for healthcare providers to support patients with polypharmacy in case of medication self-management problems. Future research should focus on the evaluation of the feasibility and user-friendliness of the guide with recommendations in clinical practice.
Quality and Yield of Edible Vegetables from Landscape Design
Authors: Istrate Ana-Maria-Roxana , Cojocariu Mirela , Teliban Gabriel-Ciprian , Cojocaru Alexandru , Stoleru Vasile
Published: May 2023

This study evaluated the effects of raised beds on crop production and quality in home gardens. The crops were grown using optimal management techniques and crop rotation principles based on organic farming. Three experimental versions were compared: V1 with 40-centimetre-high raised beds, V2 with 20-centimetre-high raised beds, and V3 with ground-level beds as the control. The results showed consistent dry weight and moisture content across all three versions for most vegetable varieties. The sweet pepper ‘Barbara’ stood out significantly, as V3 had the highest dry weight percentage (10.28%) and V2 had the highest moisture content percentage (93.40%). Nutrient analysis revealed no significant differences in lipid, ash, protein, nitrogen, or caloric value among the different versions of most vegetables. However, version V3 of the tomato ‘Tigerella’ showed the highest crude fibre content. Variations were observed in lycopene, ß-carotene, and calcium content among different versions of specific vegetables. Anti-nutritive compounds and average yield varied among the experimental versions for certain plant species. These findings have implications for dietary choices and can guide sustainable food production. It is recommended to consider raised beds, particularly V3, for cultivating sweet pepper ‘Barbara’, and further research is encouraged to explore the potential health benefits of version V3 of tomato ‘Tigerella’. These insights provide valuable vegetable science and nutrition information and can guide agricultural practices.
Effects of Light Intensity on Endogenous Hormones and Key Enzyme Activities of Anthocyanin Synthesis in Blueberry Leaves
Authors: An Xiaoli , Tan Tianyu , Zhang Xinyu , Guo Xiaolan , Zhu Yunzheng , Song Zejun , Wang Delu
Published: May 2023

Plant anthocyanin is a secondary metabolite widely distributed in the roots, stems, leaves, flowers and fruits of plants, and its synthesis is significantly affected by light intensity. To reveal the physiological response mechanism of anthocyanin synthesis in blueberry leaves at different light intensities, four light intensities (100% (CK), 75%, 50% and 25%) were set for the ‘O’Neal’ southern highbush blueberry as the experimental material in our study. The relationship between endogenous hormone contents, key enzyme activities, and variations in the anthocyanin content in blueberry leaves under various light intensities during the white fruit stage (S1), purple fruit stage (S2) and blue fruit stage (S3) of fruit development were studied. The results showed that the anthocyanin content of blueberry leaves increased first and then decreased, and decreased first and then increased with the increase in light intensity and development stage, respectively. The appropriate light intensity could significantly promote the synthesis of anthocyanin, and the anthocyanin content in leaves treated with 75% light intensity was 1.09~4.08 times that of other light intensity treatments. The content or activities of gibberellin (GA3), indoleacetic acid (IAA), jasmonic acid (JA), abscisic acid (ABA), ethylene (ETH), phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), chalcone isomerase (CHI), dihydroflavonol reductase (DFR) and UDP-glucose: flavonoid 3-glucosyltransferase (UFGT) were significantly or extremely significantly correlated with the content of anthocyanin in leaves. This indicated that light intensity significantly promoted anthocyanin synthesis in blueberry leaves by affecting endogenous hormone contents and key enzyme activities in the anthocyanin synthesis pathway. This study lays a foundation for further research on the molecular mechanism of light intensity regulating anthocyanin synthesis in blueberry leaves.
SARS-CoV CH.1.1 Variant: Genomic and Structural Insight
Authors: Bazzani Liliana , Imperia Elena , Scarpa Fabio , Sanna Daria , Casu Marco , Borsetti Alessandra , Pascarella Stefano , Petrosillo Nicola , Cella Eleonora , Giovanetti Marta , Ciccozzi Massimo
Published: May 2023

In early February 2023, the Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5, also known as “Kraken”, accounted for more than 44% of new COVID-19 cases worldwide, whereas a relatively new Omicron subvariant named CH.1.1, deemed “Orthrus”, accounted for less than 6% of new COVID-19 cases during the subsequent weeks. This emerging variant carries a mutation, L452R, previously observed in the highly pathogenic Delta and the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 variants, necessitating a shift to active surveillance to assure adequate preparedness for likely future epidemic peaks. We provide a preliminary understanding of the global distribution of this emerging SARS-CoV-2 variant by combining genomic data with structural molecular modeling. In addition, we shield light on the number of specific point mutations in this lineage that may have functional significance, thereby increasing the risk of disease severity, vaccine resistance, and increased transmission. This variant shared about 73% of the mutations with Omicron-like strains. Our homology modeling analysis revealed that CH.1.1 may have a weakened interaction with ACE2 and that its electrostatic potential surface appears to be more positive than that of the reference ancestral virus. Finally, our phylogenetic analysis revealed that this likely-emerging variant was already cryptically circulating in European countries prior to its first detection, highlighting the importance of having access to whole genome sequences for detecting and controlling emerging viral strains.
Reliability of ADR Jumping Photocell: Comparison of Beam Cut at Forefoot and Midfoot
Authors: Jimenez-Olmedo Jose M. , Penichet-Tomas Alfonso , Pueo Basilio , Villalon-Gasch Lamberto
Published: May 2023

The ability to detect small changes in a vertical jump is crucial when data are used by sports science specialists to monitor their athletes. This study aimed to analyze the intrasession reliability of the ADR jumping photocell and the reliability relative to the position of the transmitter when it is located facing the phalanges of the foot (forefoot) or the metatarsal area (midfoot). A total of 12 female volleyball players performed 240 countermovement jumps (CMJ), alternating both methods. The intersession reliability was higher for the forefoot method (ICC = 0.96; CCC = 0.95; SEM = 1.15 cm; CV = 4.11%) than for the midfoot method (ICC = 0.85; CCC = 0.81; SEM = 3.68 cm; CV = 8.75%). Similarly, the sensitivity values were better for the forefoot method (SWC = 0.32) than for the midfoot method (SWC = 1.04). Significant differences were found between the methods (13.5 cm, p < 0.05, ES = 2.1) with low agreement (rs = 0.57; ICC = 0.49; CCC = 0.15; SEM = 4.7 cm) and heteroscedasticity was observed (r2 > 0.1). In conclusion, the ADR jumping photocell is shown to be a reliable tool for measuring CMJs. However, the reliability of the instrument can be influenced depending on the placement of the device. Comparing the two methods, the midfoot placement was less reliable as indicated by higher values of SEM and systematic error, and thus its use is not recommended.
Medication Decision-Making and the Medicines’ Pathway in Nursing Homes: Experiences and Expectations of Involvement of Residents and Informal Caregivers
Authors: Damiaens Amber , Van Hecke Ann , Foulon Veerle
Published: May 2023

Background: Information on how residents and their informal caregivers are involved in the medicines’ pathway in nursing homes is scarce. Likewise, it is not known how they would prefer to be involved therein. Methods: A generic qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 17 residents and 10 informal caregivers from four nursing homes was performed. Interview transcripts were analyzed using an inductive thematic framework. Results: Four themes were derived to describe resident and informal caregiver involvement in the medicines’ pathway. First, residents and informal caregivers show behaviors of involvement across the medicines’ pathway. Second, their attitude towards involvement was mainly one of resignation, but variation was noted in their involvement preferences, ranging from minimal information to active participation needs. Third, institutional and personal factors were found to contribute to the resigned attitude. Last, situations were identified that drive residents and informal caregivers to act, regardless of their resigned attitude. Conclusions: Resident and informal caregiver involvement in the medicines’ pathway is limited. Nevertheless, interviews show that information and participation needs are present and show potential for residents’ and informal caregivers’ contribution to the medicines’ pathway. Future research should explore initiatives to increase the understanding and acknowledgement of opportunities for involvement and to empower residents and informal caregivers to take on their roles.
HIV and Hepatitis C Risk among Tajik Migrant Workers Who Inject Drugs in Moscow
Authors: Mackesy-Amiti Mary Ellen , Levy Judith A. , Bahromov Mahbatsho , Jonbekov Jonbek , Luc Casey M.
Published: May 2023

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic in Eastern Europe and Central Asia continues to grow with most infections occurring in high-risk groups including people who inject drugs and their sexual partners. Labor migrants from this region who inject drugs while in Russia are at especially high HIV risk. Male Tajik migrant workers who inject drugs in Moscow (N = 420) were interviewed prior to a randomized trial of the Migrants’ Approached Self-Learning Intervention in HIV/AIDS (MASLIHAT) peer-education HIV-prevention intervention. Participants were interviewed about their sex and drug use behavior and tested for HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) prior to the intervention. Only 17% had ever been tested for HIV. Over half of the men reported injecting with a previously used syringe in the past month, and substantial proportions reported risky sexual behavior. Prevalence rates of HIV (6.8%) and HCV (2.9%) were elevated, although lower than expected when compared to estimates of prevalence among people who inject drugs at the national level in Tajikistan. Risk behavior in diaspora varied across the men’s regional area of origin in Tajikistan and occupation in Moscow, with HIV prevalence rates highest among those working at the bazaars. Evidence-based prevention approaches and messaging that specifically address the drug- and sex-related risk behavior of migrants with varying backgrounds are needed.
Gardening in Childcare Centers: A Randomized Controlled Trial Examining the Effects of a Garden Intervention on Physical Activity among Children Aged 3–5 Years in North Carolina
Authors: Wells Nancy M. , Cosco Nilda Graciela , Hales Derek , Monsur Muntazar , Moore Robin C.
Published: May 2023

This study examined the effects of a childcare gardening intervention on children’s physical activity (PA). Eligible childcare centers were randomly assigned to: (1) garden intervention (n = 5; year 1); (2) waitlist control (n = 5; control year 1, intervention year 2); or (3) control (n = 5; year 2 only) groups. Across the two-year study, PA was measured for 3 days at four data collection periods using Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometers. The intervention comprised 6 raised fruit and vegetable garden beds and a gardening guide with age-appropriate learning activities. The sample included a total of 321 3–5-year-olds enrolled in childcare centers in Wake County, North Carolina, with n = 293 possessing PA data for at least one time point. The analyses employed repeated measures linear mixed models (SAS v 9.4 PROC MIXED), accounting for clustering of the children within the center and relevant covariates (e.g., cohort, weather, outside days, accelerometer wear). A significant intervention effect was found for MVPA (p < 0.0001) and SED minutes (p = 0.0004), with children at intervention centers acquiring approximately 6 min more MVPA and 14 min less sedentary time each day. The effects were moderated by sex and age, with a stronger impact for boys and the youngest children. The results suggest that childcare gardening has potential as a PA intervention.
Estimating Overall and Cause-Specific Excess Mortality during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Methodological Approaches Compared
Authors: Barbiellini Amidei Claudio , Fedeli Ugo , Gennaro Nicola , Cestari Laura , Schievano Elena , Zorzi Manuel , Girardi Paolo , Casotto Veronica
Published: May 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, excess mortality has been reported worldwide, but its magnitude has varied depending on methodological differences that hinder between-study comparability. Our aim was to estimate variability attributable to different methods, focusing on specific causes of death with different pre-pandemic trends. Monthly mortality figures observed in 2020 in the Veneto Region (Italy) were compared with those forecasted using: (1) 2018–2019 monthly average number of deaths; (2) 2015–2019 monthly average age-standardized mortality rates; (3) Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) models; (4) Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) models. We analyzed deaths due to all-causes, circulatory diseases, cancer, and neurologic/mental disorders. Excess all-cause mortality estimates in 2020 across the four approaches were: +17.2% (2018–2019 average number of deaths), +9.5% (five-year average age-standardized rates), +15.2% (SARIMA), and +15.7% (GEE). For circulatory diseases (strong pre-pandemic decreasing trend), estimates were +7.1%, −4.4%, +8.4%, and +7.2%, respectively. Cancer mortality showed no relevant variations (ranging from −1.6% to −0.1%), except for the simple comparison of age-standardized mortality rates (−5.5%). The neurologic/mental disorders (with a pre-pandemic growing trend) estimated excess corresponded to +4.0%/+5.1% based on the first two approaches, while no major change could be detected based on the SARIMA and GEE models (−1.3%/+0.3%). The magnitude of excess mortality varied largely based on the methods applied to forecast mortality figures. The comparison with average age-standardized mortality rates in the previous five years diverged from the other approaches due to the lack of control over pre-existing trends. Differences across other methods were more limited, with GEE models probably representing the most versatile option.
Analysis and Prediction of COVID-19 Multivariate Data Using Deep Ensemble Learning Methods
Authors: Sharma Shruti , Gupta Yogesh Kumar , Mishra Abhinava K.
Published: May 2023

The global economy has suffered losses as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic. Accurate and effective predictive models are necessary for the governance and readiness of the healthcare system and its resources and, ultimately, for the prevention of the spread of illness. The primary objective of the project is to build a robust, universal method for predicting COVID-19-positive cases. Collaborators will benefit from this while developing and revising their pandemic response plans. For accurate prediction of the spread of COVID-19, the research recommends an adaptive gradient LSTM model (AGLSTM) using multivariate time series data. RNN, LSTM, LASSO regression, Ada-Boost, Light Gradient Boosting and KNN models are also used in the research, which accurately and reliably predict the course of this unpleasant disease. The proposed technique is evaluated under two different experimental conditions. The former uses case studies from India to validate the methodology, while the latter uses data fusion and transfer-learning techniques to reuse data and models to predict the onset of COVID-19. The model extracts important advanced features that influence the COVID-19 cases using a convolutional neural network and predicts the cases using adaptive LSTM after CNN processes the data. The experiment results show that the output of AGLSTM outperforms with an accuracy of 99.81% and requires only a short time for training and prediction.
Exploration of Existing Integrated Mental Health and Addictions Care Services for Indigenous Peoples in Canada
Authors: Wu Jasmine , Smye Victoria , Hill Bill , Antone Joseph , MacDougall Arlene
Published: May 2023

Due to the persistent impacts of colonialism, Indigenous peoples of Canada face disproportionate rates of mental health and substance use disorders, which are often insufficiently addressed by Eurocentric ‘mainstream’ mental health and addiction services. The need to better address Indigenous mental health has led to Indigenous mental health integrated care (hereafter integrated care): programs using both Indigenous and Western practices in their care delivery. This research describes the common lessons, disjunctures, and solutions experienced by existing integrated care programs for Indigenous adults across Canada. It reveals the best practices of integrated care for programs, and contributes to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action #20 and #22. This study, co-designed by an Indigenous Knowledge Keeper and Practitioner, explores the programs’ relational processes through interviews with key informants. The data was analyzed in consultation with Indigenous collaborators to highlight Indigenous values and interpretations, and knowledge co-production. In highlighting the complexity of integrated care, study results show the lessons of ‘Real Commitment to Communities and Community Involvement,’ and tensions and disjunctures of ‘Culture as Healing,’ ‘People-focused vs. Practitioner-focused Programs,’ ‘Community-oriented vs. Individual-oriented Programs,’ and ‘Colonial Power Dynamics in Integrated Care.’ The discussion explores why tensions and disjunctures exist, and suggests how to move forward using integrated care’s lessons and the concept of IND-equity. Ultimately, Indigenous-led partnerships are paramount to integrated care because they leverage Indigenous knowledge and approaches to achieve health equity within integrated care.
Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID), Substantial Clinical Benefit (SCB), and Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) of the Shoulder Disability Questionnaire (SDQ) in Patients Undergoing Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Longo Umile Giuseppe , Papalia Rocco , De Salvatore Sergio , Casciaro Carlo , Piergentili Ilaria , Bandini Benedetta , Lalli Alberto , Franceschetti Edoardo , Denaro Vincenzo
Published: May 2023

The Shoulder Disability Questionnaire (SDQ) is a Patient-Reported Outcome Measure (PROM) applied to evaluate shoulder surgery outcomes. The purpose of this study is to identify the accurate Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID), Substantial Clinical Benefit (SCB) and Patient Acceptable Symptom State (PASS) values for the SDQ score. A total of 35 patients (21 women and 16 men, mean age 76.6 ± 3.2 years) were followed up at 6 months postoperatively. To assess the patient’s health satisfaction and symptoms, anchor questions were used. The MCID and SCB values of the SDQ score for patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair from inception to final follow-up were 40.8 and 55.6, respectively. A change of 40.8 in the SDQ score at 6 months after surgery shows that patients achieved a minimum clinically important improvement in their state of health, and a 55.6 change in the SDQ score reflects a substantial clinically important improvement. The PASS cut-off of the SDQ score at 6 months postoperatively ranged from 22.5 to 25.8. If an SDQ score of 22.5 or more is attained after surgery, the health condition can be recognized as acceptable by the majority of patients. These cut-offs will help with understanding specific patient results and allow clinicians to personally assess patient improvement after rotator cuff repair.
Risk Factors and Protective Factors of Internet Addiction in University Students during the Pandemic: Implications for Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Shek Daniel T. L. , Chai Wenyu , Zhou Kaiji
Published: May 2023

While the prevalence rates of Internet addiction (IA) amongst young people during the pandemic are disturbing, few studies have investigated the risk and protective factors of IA in Hong Kong university students under COVID-19. In this study, we examined the relationship between COVID-19-related stress and IA and the role of psychological morbidity and positive psychological attributes in the relationship. In summer 2022, 978 university students completed a survey assessing pandemic-related stress, psychological morbidity, and positive psychological attributes. While psychological morbidity was indexed by depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal behavior, positive psychological attributes included life satisfaction, flourishing, adversity beliefs, emotional competence, resilience, and family functioning measures. Results showed that stress and psychological morbidity positively predicted IA, and psychological morbidity mediated the association between stress and IA. Positive psychological attributes negatively predicted stress and IA, and mediated the connection between stress and IA. Positive psychological attributes moderated the mediating effect of psychological morbidity on the relationship between stress and IA. In addition to theoretical contributions, this study contributes to IA prevention and treatment: reducing psychological morbidity and promoting positive psychological attributes are promising strategies to address IA issues in young people.
Homo cerevisiae—Leveraging Yeast for Investigating Protein–Protein Interactions and Their Role in Human Disease
Authors: Laval Florent , Coppin Georges , Twizere Jean-Claude , Vidal Marc
Published: May 2023

Understanding how genetic variation affects phenotypes represents a major challenge, particularly in the context of human disease. Although numerous disease-associated genes have been identified, the clinical significance of most human variants remains unknown. Despite unparalleled advances in genomics, functional assays often lack sufficient throughput, hindering efficient variant functionalization. There is a critical need for the development of more potent, high-throughput methods for characterizing human genetic variants. Here, we review how yeast helps tackle this challenge, both as a valuable model organism and as an experimental tool for investigating the molecular basis of phenotypic perturbation upon genetic variation. In systems biology, yeast has played a pivotal role as a highly scalable platform which has allowed us to gain extensive genetic and molecular knowledge, including the construction of comprehensive interactome maps at the proteome scale for various organisms. By leveraging interactome networks, one can view biology from a systems perspective, unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying genetic diseases, and identify therapeutic targets. The use of yeast to assess the molecular impacts of genetic variants, including those associated with viral interactions, cancer, and rare and complex diseases, has the potential to bridge the gap between genotype and phenotype, opening the door for precision medicine approaches and therapeutic development.
Genome-Wide Identification of PEBP Gene Family in Solanum lycopersicum
Authors: Sun Yimeng , Jia Xinyi , Yang Zhenru , Fu Qingjun , Yang Huanhuan , Xu Xiangyang
Published: May 2023

The PEBP gene family is crucial for the growth and development of plants, the transition between vegetative and reproductive growth, the response to light, the production of florigen, and the reaction to several abiotic stressors. The PEBP gene family has been found in numerous species, but the SLPEBP gene family has not yet received a thorough bioinformatics investigation, and the members of this gene family are currently unknown. In this study, bioinformatics was used to identify 12 members of the SLPEBP gene family in tomato and localize them on the chromosomes. The physicochemical characteristics of the proteins encoded by members of the SLPEBP gene family were also examined, along with their intraspecific collinearity, gene structure, conserved motifs, and cis-acting elements. In parallel, a phylogenetic tree was built and the collinear relationships of the PEBP gene family among tomato, potato, pepper, and Arabidopsis were examined. The expression of 12 genes in different tissues and organs of tomato was analyzed using transcriptomic data. It was also hypothesized that SLPEBP3, SLPEBP5, SLPEBP6, SLPEBP8, SLPEBP9, and SLPEBP10 might be related to tomato flowering and that SLPEBP2, SLPEBP3, SLPEBP7, and SLPEBP11 might be related to ovary development based on the tissue-specific expression analysis of SLPEBP gene family members at five different stages during flower bud formation to fruit set. This article’s goal is to offer suggestions and research directions for further study of tomato PEBP gene family members.
Lunasin and Its Epigenetic Impact in Cancer Chemoprevention
Authors: Kaufman-Szymczyk Agnieszka , Kaczmarek Wiktoria , Fabianowska-Majewska Krystyna , Lubecka-Gajewska Katarzyna
Published: May 2023

Cancer diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide. Therefore, it is pivotal to search for bioactive dietary compounds that can avert tumor development. A diet rich in vegetables, including legumes, provides chemopreventive substances, which have the potential to prevent many diseases, including cancer. Lunasin is a soy-derived peptide whose anti-cancer activity has been studied for over 20 years. The results of the previous research have shown that lunasin inhibits histone acetylation, regulates the cell cycle, suppresses proliferation and induces apoptosis of cancer cells. Thus, lunasin seems to be a promising bioactive anti-cancer agent and a potent epigenetic modulator. The present review discusses studies of the underlying molecular mechanisms and new perspectives on lunasin application in epigenetic prevention and anti-cancer therapy.
Identification of Proteins Involved in Cell Membrane Permeabilization by Nanosecond Electric Pulses (nsEP)
Authors: Silkuniene Giedre , Mangalanathan Uma M. , Rossi Alessandra , Mollica Peter A. , Pakhomov Andrei G. , Pakhomova Olga
Published: May 2023

The study was aimed at identifying endogenous proteins which assist or impede the permeabilized state in the cell membrane disrupted by nsEP (20 or 40 pulses, 300 ns width, 7 kV/cm). We employed a LentiArray CRISPR library to generate knockouts (KOs) of 316 genes encoding for membrane proteins in U937 human monocytes stably expressing Cas9 nuclease. The extent of membrane permeabilization by nsEP was measured by the uptake of Yo-Pro-1 (YP) dye and compared to sham-exposed KOs and control cells transduced with a non-targeting (scrambled) gRNA. Only two KOs, for SCNN1A and CLCA1 genes, showed a statistically significant reduction in YP uptake. The respective proteins could be part of electropermeabilization lesions or increase their lifespan. In contrast, as many as 39 genes were identified as likely hits for the increased YP uptake, meaning that the respective proteins contributed to membrane stability or repair after nsEP. The expression level of eight genes in different types of human cells showed strong correlation (R > 0.9, p < 0.02) with their LD50 for lethal nsEP treatments, and could potentially be used as a criterion for the selectivity and efficiency of hyperplasia ablations with nsEP.
Zn2+ and Cu2+ Interaction with the Recognition Interface of ACE2 for SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Authors: Pelucelli Alessio , Peana Massimiliano , Orzeł Bartosz , Piasta Karolina , Gumienna-Kontecka Elzbieta , Medici Serenella , Zoroddu Maria Antonietta
Published: May 2023

The spike protein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 is able to bind to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor with a much higher affinity compared to other coronaviruses. The binding interface between the ACE2 receptor and the spike protein plays a critical role in the entry mechanism of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. There are specific amino acids involved in the interaction between the S protein and the ACE2 receptor. This specificity is critical for the virus to establish a systemic infection and cause COVID-19 disease. In the ACE2 receptor, the largest number of amino acids playing a crucial role in the mechanism of interaction and recognition with the S protein is located in the C-terminal part, which represents the main binding region between ACE2 and S. This fragment is abundant in coordination residues such as aspartates, glutamates, and histidine that could be targeted by metal ions. Zn2+ ions bind to the ACE2 receptor in its catalytic site and modulate its activity, but it could also contribute to the structural stability of the entire protein. The ability of the human ACE2 receptor to coordinate metal ions, such as Zn2+, in the same region where it binds to the S protein could have a crucial impact on the mechanism of recognition and interaction of ACE2–S, with consequences on their binding affinity that deserve to be investigated. To test this possibility, this study aims to characterize the coordination ability of Zn2+, and also Cu2+ for comparison, with selected peptide models of the ACE2 binding interface using spectroscopic and potentiometric techniques.
Narrative Review: Update on the Molecular Diagnosis of Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Ciobanu Cristian-Gabriel , Nucă Irina , Popescu Roxana , Antoci Lucian-Mihai , Caba Lavinia , Ivanov Anca Viorica , Cojocaru Karina-Alexandra , Rusu Cristina , Mihai Cosmin-Teodor , Pânzaru Monica-Cristina
Published: May 2023

The diagnosis and management of fragile X syndrome (FXS) have significantly improved in the last three decades, although the current diagnostic techniques are not yet able to precisely identify the number of repeats, methylation status, level of mosaicism, and/or the presence of AGG interruptions. A high number of repeats (>200) in the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 gene (FMR1) results in hypermethylation of promoter and gene silencing. The actual molecular diagnosis is performed using a Southern blot, TP-PCR (Triplet-Repeat PCR), MS-PCR (Methylation-Specific PCR), and MS-MLPA (Methylation-Specific MLPA) with some limitations, with multiple assays being necessary to completely characterise a patient with FXS. The actual gold standard diagnosis uses Southern blot; however, it cannot accurately characterise all cases. Optical genome mapping is a new technology that has also been developed to approach the diagnosis of fragile X syndrome. Long-range sequencing represented by PacBio and Oxford Nanopore has the potential to replace the actual diagnosis and offers a complete characterization of molecular profiles in a single test. The new technologies have improved the diagnosis of fragile X syndrome and revealed unknown aberrations, but they are a long way from being used routinely in clinical practice.
High-Strength, High-Water-Retention Hemicellulose-Based Hydrogel and Its Application in Urea Slow Release
Authors: Hou Yajun , Deng Baojuan , Wang Shanshan , Ma Yun , Long Xing , Wang Fei , Qin Chengrong , Liang Chen , Yao Shuangquan
Published: May 2023

The use of fertilizer is closely related to crop growth and environmental protection in agricultural production. It is of great significance to develop environmentally friendly and biodegradable bio-based slow-release fertilizers. In this work, porous hemicellulose-based hydrogels were created, which had excellent mechanical properties, water retention properties (the water retention ratio in soil was 93.8% after 5 d), antioxidant properties (76.76%), and UV resistance (92.2%). This improves the efficiency and potential of its application in soil. In addition, electrostatic interaction and coating with sodium alginate produced a stable core–shell structure. The slow release of urea was realized. The cumulative release ratio of urea after 12 h was 27.42% and 11.38%, and the release kinetic constants were 0.0973 and 0.0288, in aqueous solution and soil, respectively. The sustained release results demonstrated that urea diffusion in aqueous solution followed the Korsmeyer–Peppas model, indicating the Fick diffusion mechanism, whereas diffusion in soil adhered to the Higuchi model. The outcomes show that urea release ratio may be successfully slowed down by hemicellulose hydrogels with high water retention ability. This provides a new method for the application of lignocellulosic biomass in agricultural slow-release fertilizer.