bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aminopolycarboxylic Acids-Functionalized Chitosan-Based Composite Cryogels as Valuable Heavy Metal Ions Sorbents: Fixed-Bed Column Studies and Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Dinu Maria Valentina , Humelnicu Ionel , Ghiorghita Claudiu Augustin , Humelnicu Doina
Published: April 2022

Over the years, a large number of sorption experiments using the aminopolycarboxylic acid (APCA)-functionalized adsorbents were carried out in batch conditions, but prospective research should also be directed towards column studies to check their industrial/commercial feasibility. In this context, sorption studies of five-component heavy metal ion (HMI) solutions containing Zn2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, Ni2+, and Co2+ in equimolar concentrations were assessed in fixed-bed columns using some APCA-functionalized chitosan-clinoptilolite (CS-CPL) cryogel sorbents in comparison to unmodified composite materials. The overall sorption tendency of the APCA-functionalized composite sorbents followed the sequence Co2+ < Zn2+ < Cd2+ ≤ Pb2+ < Ni2+, meaning that Co2+ ions had the lowest affinity for the sorbent’s functional groups, whereas the Ni2+ ions were strongly and preferentially adsorbed. To get more insights into the application of the composite microbeads into continuous flow set-up, the kinetic data were described by Thomas and Yoon–Nelson models. A maximum theoretical HMI sorption capacity of 145.55 mg/g and a 50% breakthrough time of 121.5 min were estimated for the column containing CSEDTA-CPL cryogel sorbents; both values were much higher than those obtained for the column filled with pristine CS-CPL sorbents. In addition, desorption of HMIs from the composite microbeads in dynamic conditions was successfully achieved using 0.1 M HCl aqueous solution. Moreover, a theoretical analysis of APCA structures attached to composite adsorbents and their spatial structures within the complex combinations with transition metals was systematically performed. Starting from the most stable conformer of EDTA, coordinative combinations with HMIs can be obtained with an energy consumption of only 1 kcal/mole, which is enough to shift the spatial structure into a favorable conformation for HMI chelation.
Oral Function Rehabilitation with the Simplified Lauritzen Clinical Remount Technique in a Patient with Bimaxillary Alveolar Exostoses: A Case Report
Authors: Cheng Chi-Hsiang , Atsuta Ikiru , Egashira Yuki , Koyano Kiyoshi , Ayukawa Yasunori
Published: April 2022

This case report describes a 70 year-old man with IVA lung cancer who required oral function rehabilitation by fabricating dentures with a simplified clinical remount technique. A pair of dentures were fabricated for a 70-year-old man with stage IVA lung cancer. Due to severe bimaxillary exostoses, the dentures could not properly extend and achieve a peripheral seal. The treatment philosophy was to stabilize the dentures and achieve proper function with optimized occlusion. The simplified Lauritzen clinical remount technique was performed at the time of denture delivery and 3 months later. After the second clinical remount procedure, the patient was able to eat meals with the dentures and maintained in a stable condition. Compared with the original technique, the simplified Lauritzen clinical remount omits the facebow transfer and keeps the condylar guidance setting and the Bennett angle unchanged during the adjustment. The prostheses are mounted to a type 3, non-arcon type articulator with anterior stop screws attached to the bilateral condylar parts. With the aid of anterior stop screws, the eccentric movement of dentures can be differentiated on a millimeter scale and balanced easily. It is effective to use occlusal-optimized dentures and the clinical remount technique, especially in difficult cases.
The Effects of Green Tea (Camellia sinensis), Bamboo Extract (Bambusa vulgaris) and Lactic Acid on Sebum Production in Young Women with Acne Vulgaris Using Sonophoresis Treatment
Authors: Chilicka Karolina , Rogowska Aleksandra M. , Rusztowicz Monika , Szyguła Renata , Yanakieva Antoniya , Asanova Binnaz , Wilczyński Sławomir
Published: April 2022

People struggling with acne vulgaris, not only experience skin eruptions and skin pain, but also report that their quality of life is worse compared with healthy people. This study examined, for the first time, the effect of sonophoresis on select skin parameters (sebum level) in young women suffering from acne vulgaris. The study included 60 women 19–23 years of age (M = 21.45, SD = 0.91) with mild and moderate facial acne. The inclusion criteria were 19–23 years of age, female or male gender, mild to moderate acne, no dermatological treatment within last 12 months, and no hormonal contraception (women). No men volunteered for the study, so the group was homogeneous. The patients were divided into two groups. Group A underwent a sonophoresis procedure using ultrasound and ultrasound gel combined with a green tea, bamboo extract ampule, and 5% lactic acid. Group B was the placebo group, where sonophoresis was performed using only ultrasound gel (no ampules). The members of the placebo group were told that they were undergoing sonophoresis with a green tea, bamboo extract, and 5% lactic acid ampule. Before and after the series of procedures, sebum levels were measured in the skin. Each patient underwent a series of five procedures using sonophoresis equipment at one-week intervals. Sonophoresis with green tea, bamboo extract, and 5% lactic acid contributed to the reduction of skin eruptions and sebum levels in the participants of the study (group A). The study results demonstrated that the combined use of plant preparations, lactic acid, and ultrasound had a positive effect on the skin of people suffering from acne vulgaris, including reduction of skin eruptions and sebum levels on the surface of the skin.
Impacts on Context Aware Systems in Evidence-Based Health Informatics: A Review
Authors: Christopoulou Stella C.
Published: April 2022

Background: The application of Context Aware Computing (CAC) can be an effective, useful, feasible, and acceptable way to advance medical research and provide health services. Methods: This review was conducted in accordance with the principles of the development of a mixed methods review and existing knowledge in the field via the Synthesis Framework for the Assessment of Health Information Technology to evaluate CAC implemented by Evidence-Based Health Informatics (EBHI). A systematic search of the literature was performed during 18 November 2021–22 January 2022 in Cochrane Library, IEEE Xplore, PUBMED, Scopus and in the clinical registry platform Clinicaltrials.gov. The author included the articles in the review if they were implemented by EBHI and concerned with CAC technologies. Results: 29 articles met the inclusion criteria and refer to 26 trials published between 2011 and 2022. The author noticed improvements in healthcare provision using EBHI in the findings of CAC application. She also confirmed that CAC systems are a valuable and reliable method in health care provision. Conclusions: The use of CAC systems in healthcare is a promising new area of research and development. The author presented that the evaluation of CAC systems in EBHI presents positive effects on the state of health and the management of long-term diseases. These implications are presented in this article in a detailed, clear, and reliable manner.
European Flat Oyster (Ostrea Edulis L.) in the Eastern Baltic as Evidence of Long-Distance Trade in Medieval and Early Modern Times
Authors: Lõugas Lembi , Jürjo Inna , Russow Erki
Published: April 2022

Along most of the European littoral, oysters were appreciated as a wholesome and palatable food from the Stone Age onwards, yet were transported much further from their natural habitats when long-distance trade in marine foodstuffs began in medieval times. The brackish waters of the Baltic Sea are not considered a suitable environment for this mollusc, and therefore all archaeological oyster shell finds are the result of import to the eastern Baltic. In this study, over 1000 shells found in different medieval and early modern archaeological contexts in Estonia were analysed, and the obtained data recorded in a data repository. Some conclusions are set out, based on shell size and shape, and breakage traces, but more detailed taphonomic studies are left for the future. This study identifies the earliest imports of oysters recorded by archaeological material and written sources. Both show records not much earlier than the 16th century AD. Although no information is preserved about the exact origin of oysters imported to Estonia, the oyster beds most probably exploited are those in the central eastern North Sea, i.e., the Wadden Sea.
A Retrospective Data Analysis for the Risk Evaluation of the Development of Drug-Associated Jaw Necrosis through Dentoalveolar Interventions
Authors: Buchbender Mayte , Bauerschmitz Charlotte , Pirkl Sebastian , Kesting Marco R. , Schmitt Christian M.
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to analyse the development of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) in patients who underwent surgical intervention to identify potential risk factors between three different groups sorted by the type of oral surgery (single tooth extraction, multiple extraction, osteotomy). Data from patients with this medical history between 2010 and 2017 were retrospectively analysed. The following parameters were collected: sex, age, medical status, surgical intervention location of dentoalveolar intervention and form of medication. A total of 115 patients fulfilled the criteria and underwent 115 dental surgical interventions (female n = 90, male n = 25). In total, 73 (63.47%) of them had metastatic underlying diseases, and 42 (36.52%) had osteoporotic ones. MRONJ occurred in 10 patients (8.70%) (female n = 5, male n = 5). The occurrence of MRONJ was significantly correlated (p ≤ 0.05) with the mandible site and male sex. Tooth removal at the mandible site remains the main risk factor for the development of MRONJ. The risk profile of developing MRONJ after dentoalveolar interventions could be expected as follows: tooth osteotomy > multiple extractions > single tooth extraction.
Substance Use among Belgian Higher Education Students before and during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tholen Robert , Ponnet Koen , Van Hal Guido , De Bruyn Sara , Buffel Veerle , Van de Velde Sarah , Bracke Piet , Wouters Edwin
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted many countries to issue far-reaching policy measures that may have led to increased substance use. Higher education students may have been disproportionally affected due to the rearrangement of educational life and their susceptibility to psychosocial distress and substance use. The current study examined associations between pandemic-related stressors, psychosocial distress, and self-reported alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis use before and during the first wave of the pandemic. Data were collected in Belgium as part of the COVID-19 International Student Well-being Study (C19 ISWS) and analyzed using multinomial logistic regression analyses. The sample contained 18,346 higher education students aged 17 to 24 (75% women). Overall use of alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis as well as binge drinking decreased during the pandemic, perhaps due to limited social gatherings. Moving back to the parental home was associated with decreased substance use, while depressive symptoms were associated with increased substance use. Perceived threat and academic stress were associated with increased binge drinking among heavy bingers and increased tobacco use. Decreases among students who moved back to their parental home may be explained by increased informal social control. Increased substance use was associated with a number of stressors and psychosocial distress, which suggests that some students may have been self-medicating to manage their mental health amidst the pandemic. Public health policy concerning substance use may prove to be less effective if not tailored to particular subgroups within the student population.
Sexual Desire and Body Image. Gender Differences and Correlations before and during COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Cedro Clemente , Mento Carmela , Piccolo Maria Cristina , Iannuzzo Fiammetta , Rizzo Amelia , Muscatello Maria Rosaria Anna , Pandolfo Gianluca
Published: April 2022

Recent literature has extensively examined sexual behavior during lockdown due to COVID-19. However, there are no recent studies that have considered the relationship between body image quality, sexual arousability, and sexual anxiety. The present study has two main objectives: (1) to examine gender differences in bodily and sexual experience; and (2) the comparison of bodily and sexual experience, before and during the COVID-19 lockdown. A total of 301 adult subjects (161 women and 140 men) aged between 16 and 73 years (Mean = 37.4; S.D. = 10.3) participated in the study. Data on biographical information were collected via an online panel. The Body Uneasiness Test (BUT) and the Sexual Arousability Inventory (SAI) were used for the assessment. Univariate ANOVA showed worse scores for women, compared with men, in terms of body image avoidance, depersonalization, overall severity of body image quality, sexual arousability, and sexual anxiety dimensions. When compared against time, only women showed significant correlations between the function of sexual arousal and all parameters concerning body image alteration. Interestingly, these correlations were weak and sporadic before lockdown, but strong and numerous during lockdown. This finding suggests that the impact of COVID-19 restrictions affected the female population more, with a profound repercussion on self-image and sexual and mental well-being.
Patterns of Perceived Harms and Benefits of the COVID-19 Outbreak in Hong Kong Adults: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Chen Bo-Wen , Gong Wei-Jie , Lai Agnes Yuen-Kwan , Sit Shirley Man-Man , Ho Sai-Yin , Wang Man-Ping , Yu Nancy Xiaonan , Lam Tai-Hing
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic caused different types of harms and benefits, but the combined patterns of perceived harms and benefits are unclear. We aimed to identify the patterns of perceived harms and benefits of the COVID-19 outbreak and to examine their associations with socio-demographic characteristics, happiness, and changes in smoking and drinking. A population-based cross-sectional online survey was conducted in May 2020 on Hong Kong adults (N = 4520). Patterns of perceived harms and benefits of COVID-19 were identified using latent profile analysis. Their associations with socio-demographic characteristics, happiness, and changes in smoking and drinking were examined using multinomial logistic regression. We identified three distinct patterns: indifferent (66.37%), harm (13.28%), and benefit (20.35%). Compared with the indifferent subgroup, the harm subgroup was younger, less happy, and had increased drinking, and hence might be at higher risk, whereas the benefit subgroup was more likely to be female, live with one or more cohabitants, have postsecondary education, be happier, and have decreased drinking, and could be more adaptive. Future studies can target the harm subgroup to facilitate their positive adjustments.
Exposure of Buffalo Milkers to Pathogenic Bacteria and Characterization of Isolated Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus spp.
Authors: Carraturo Federica , Alterisio Maria Chiara , Guccione Jacopo , Cerullo Valeria , Salamone Michela , Morelli Michela , Libralato Giovanni , Russo Ernesto , d’Angelo Raffaele , Ciaramella Paolo , Di Loria Antonio , Guida Marco
Published: April 2022

The research was focused on the surveillance of the exposure of buffalo milkers in contact with both animals and potentially contaminated equipment, pointing attention on the diffusion of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus spp. The monitoring was performed for 12 months, allowing the collection of 600 raw milk and buffalo udder surface samples, 192 milking lanes, 400 milking clusters, 160 personal protective equipment (PPEs) and electronic devices surface samples in contact with the workers of four milking parlors located in Southern Italy. The analysis of the milk samples evidenced the highest exposure to the bacteria considered (and mainly to S. aureus) from late winter–spring seasons onward. The possible risk arising from buffalo udder, milking clusters, and lines were instead considered rather stable along the entire period of sampling. The PPEs turned out to be a source of contamination for milkers mainly during the spring and summer periods. The analysis for oxacillin/methicillin resistance revealed in all the farms enrolled an overall amount of 37.5% of Staphylococci strains (belonging to S. aureus, S. haemolyticus, S. pseudintermedius, S. chromogenes species) resistant both to methicillin and oxacillin. The investigation demonstrated that the potential transfer of pathogenic bacteria to humans would have a better chance to occur at milk resumption time (since late winter–spring onward) when the number of animals to be milked is greater and the activity in the milking parlor is more challenging. At the same time, the findings seem to point out that the potential risk may be worsened by a significant presence of oxacillin/methicillin-resistant Staphylococci, potentially resulting from irrational use of antibiotics.
MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Analysis and Human Post-Mortem Microbial Community: A Pilot Study
Authors: Campobasso Carlo Pietro , Mastroianni Gennaro , Feola Alessandro , Mascolo Pasquale , Carfora Anna , Liguori Bruno , Zangani Pierluca , Dell’Annunziata Federica , Folliero Veronica , Petrillo Arianna , Della Pepa Maria Elena , Martora Francesca , Galdiero Marilena
Published: April 2022

Introduction: The human post-mortem microbiome (HPM) plays a major role in the decomposition process. Successional changes in post-mortem bacterial communities have been recently demonstrated using high throughput metagenomic sequencing techniques, showing great potential as a post-mortem interval (PMI) predictor. The aim of this study is to verify the application of the mass spectrometry technique, better known as MALDI-TOF MS (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry), as a cheap and quick method for microbe taxonomic identification and for studying the PM microbiome. Methods: The study was carried out on 18 human bodies, ranging from 4 months to 82 years old and with a PMI range from 24 h up to 15 days. The storage time interval in the coolers was included in the final PMI estimates. Using the PMI, the sample study was divided into three main groups: seven cases with a PMI < 72 h; six cases with a PMI of 72–168 h and five cases with a PMI > 168 h. For each body, microbiological swabs were sampled from five external anatomical sites (eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and rectum) and four internal organs (brain, spleen, liver, and heart). Results: The HPM became increasingly different from the starting communities over time in the internal organs as well as at skin sites; the HPM microbiome was mostly dominated by Firmicutes and Proteobacteria phyla; and a PM microbial turnover existed during decomposition, evolving with the PMI. Conclusions: MALDI-TOF is a promising method for PMI estimation, given its sample handling, good reproducibility, and high speed and throughput. Although several intrinsic and extrinsic factors can affect the structure of the HPM, MALDI-TOF can detect the overall microbial community turnover of most prevalent phyla during decomposition. Limitations are mainly related to its sensitivity due to the culture-dependent method and bias in the identification of new isolates.
Social Support and Psychological Distress among the Bedouin Arab Elderly in Israel: The Moderating Role of Gender
Authors: Abu-Kaf Sarah , Nakash Ora , Hayat Tsahi , Cohen Michal
Published: April 2022

In Israel, as in other developed countries, mental health problems are common among older adults who are members of disadvantaged ethnic minorities that are experiencing cultural and social changes. The main goals of the current study were: (a) to examine gender differences in the levels of psychological distress and social support among Bedouin elders, and (b) to examine the moderating role of gender in the associations between social support indices and psychological distress. We used a cross-sectional design, and independent t-tests and hierarchical linear regression analysis were performed. The study was conducted in homes and in social clubs and community centers for elderly people and involved face-to-face interviews and self-administered questionnaires. A convenience sample of 170 Bedouin Arab elderly people living in Israel participated in the study. Participants completed self-report questionnaires that assessed psychological distress, perceived social support, instrumental social support, and socio-demographic characteristics. Male elders reported lower levels of psychological distress and higher levels of instrumental support. Female elders, who reported low levels of both perceived and instrumental support, also reported higher levels of psychological distress. Among the women, there were significant associations between psychological distress and perceived social support, and instrumental support only when the levels of support were low. This study underscores the moderating role of gender in the associations between different types of social support and psychological distress among elderly people belonging to ethnic and cultural underprivileged minority groups.
Knowledge and Behaviours towards Immunisation Programmes: Vaccine Hesitancy during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era
Authors: Dettori Marco , Arghittu Antonella , Castiglia Paolo
Published: April 2022

Assessing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards vaccination is a key strategy when implementing national and international immunisation programmes aimed at improving compliance among the population and thereby increasing vaccination coverage. While vaccination’s role as a powerful life-saving weapon in the fight against infectious diseases has been further highlighted following the introduction of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine, there is still a discrepancy between the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of vaccines and the perception of the risk attributed to them. Known as “Vaccine Hesitancy” (VH), this phenomenon is the delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccines, despite the availability of services. VH can be found in at least 15% of the worldwide population, and even professional groups tasked with promoting vaccination as a primary prevention measure, e.g., healthcare workers (HCWs), sometimes have doubts regarding vaccination. Since 2014, this Public Health problem has been increasing in 90% of countries worldwide, to the extent that in 2019 it was listed as one of the ten greatest threats to global health by the World Health Organization (WHO). VH has also affected COVID-19 vaccination, hampering the achievement of desired vaccination coverage. Monitoring this trend by studying people’s behaviour and attitudes could be a useful tool to aid Public Health, in orienting vaccination policies and designing new health education and continuous training interventions, aimed at both the general public and accountable cohorts, such as HCWs.
The Future of Climate-Resilient and Climate-Neutral City in the Temperate Climate Zone
Authors: Antoszewski Patryk , Krzyżaniak Michał , Świerk Dariusz
Published: April 2022

The urban heat island (UHI) effect is the main problem regarding a city’s climate. It is the main adverse effect of urbanization and negatively affects human thermal comfort levels as defined by physiological equivalent temperature (PET) in the urban environment. Blue and green infrastructure (BGI) solutions may mitigate the UHI effect. First, however, it is necessary to understand the problem from the degrading side. The subject of this review is to identify the most essential geometrical, morphological, and topographical parameters of the urbanized environment (UE) and to understand the synergistic relationships between city and nature. A four-stage normative procedure was used, appropriate for systematic reviews of the UHI. First, one climate zone (temperate climate zone C) was limited to unify the design guidelines. As a result of delimitation, 313 scientific articles were obtained (546 rejected). Second, the canonical correlation analysis (CCA) was performed for the obtained data. Finally, our research showed the parameters of the UE facilities, which are necessary to mitigate the UHI effect. Those are building density and urban surface albedo for neighborhood cluster (NH), and distance from the city center, aspect ratio, ground surface albedo, and street orientation for street canyon (SC), as well as building height, material albedo, and building orientation for the building structure (BU). The developed guidelines can form the basis for microclimate design in a temperate climate. The data obtained from the statistical analysis will be used to create the blue-green infrastructure (BGI) dynamic modeling algorithm, which is the main focus of the future series of articles.
Computation of Fetal Kicking in Various Fetal Health Examinations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Liu Yuwei , Xuan Rongrong , He Yuhuan , Ren Feng , Gu Yaodong
Published: April 2022

Fetal movement has always been considered an essential indicator to evaluate the health of the unborn fetus. Many factors affect fetal movement. The frequency of fetal kicking is an important measurement of whether fetal development is progressing and healthy. Various instruments and methods of detecting fetal movement have been used and each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Although limited by the fetal environment in utero, the finite element method and musculoskeletal model can be used to calculate fetal lower limb movement. This review aims to summarize the current detection techniques for fetal movement, especially in the lower limbs. These will be outlined by describing the different measurements of fetal movement, and the related biomechanical analyses of fetal lower limb skeletogenesis and the associated muscular development to better evaluate and calculate the movements of the fetus in the womb.
A Preliminary Evaluation of Virginia Fresh Match: Impacts and Demographic Considerations for Future Fruit and Vegetable Incentive Programs
Authors: Misyak Sarah A. , Parker Molly K. , Ledlie Johnson Meredith , Hedges Sam , Borst Elizabeth , McNamara Best Maureen , Hedrick Valisa E.
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this communication is to describe the preliminary evaluation of the Virginia Fresh Match (VFM) financial incentive program for fresh fruits and vegetables for Virginia Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program shoppers and to determine if there were differences in incentive outcomes by race. In this cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was administered to shoppers using Virginia Fresh Match incentives at participating farmers markets and community-based food retail outlets. Repeated measures ANOVAs were used to detect differences in fruit and vegetable consumption between demographic groups over time. Chi-square tests were used to determine if there were associations between race and perceived impact of VFM incentives on making food last and the attribution of VFM incentives to changes in fruit and vegetable consumption frequency. Frequency of fruit and vegetable intake was significantly higher during VFM incentive use, with a difference of 1.17 ± 0.07 and 1.07 ± 0.07 on a Likert scale measure, respectively (p ≤ 0.001). There were racial differences in assertions that VFM incentives helped food to last. VFM incentives were effective at increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, but racial differences should be considered in the administration of VFM to avoid reinforcing systems or approaches that may contribute to disparities in food access and food security.
Sexual Risk Behavior and Lifetime HIV Testing: The Role of Adverse Childhood Experiences
Authors: Dyer Typhanye V. , Turpin Rodman E. , Hawthorne David J. , Jain Vardhmaan , Sayam Sonica , Mittal Mona
Published: April 2022

Despite the success of HIV prevention drugs such as PrEP, HIV incident transmission rates remain a significant problem in the United States. A life-course perspective, including experiences of childhood adversity, may be useful in addressing the HIV epidemic. This paper used 2019 BRFSS data to elucidate the role that childhood adversity plays in the relationship between HIV risk and HIV testing. Participants (n = 58,258) completed self-report measures of HIV risk behaviors, HIV testing, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The median number ACEs in the sample was 1, with verbal abuse (33.9%), and parental separation (31.3%) being the most common ACEs reported. Bivariate findings showed that all ACEs were associated with increased HIV risk and testing. However, increased risk was not correlated with increased HIV testing, with the highest incongruence related to mental health problems of household member (53.48%). While both self-reported HIV risk and ACEs were positively associated with HIV testing, their interaction had a negative association with testing (aPR = 0.51, 95%CI 0.42, 0.62). The results highlight the need for targeted HIV prevention strategies for at-risk individuals with a history of childhood adversity.
Legal Relief for Children in Immigrant Families: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Wichelt Natalie , Torres Kenny , de la Vega Gabriela , Linton Julie M. , Montez Kimberly
Published: April 2022

Objective: Immigration status is a known social driver of health. Little research exists on addressing concerns about immigration status in primary care. The objective of this study is to understand the experiences of immigrant families that received a clinical-community intervention to address immigration-related concerns. Methods: We conducted a mixed-methods study: an embedded experimental design study. We implemented an immigration-focused legal needs screening tool and referral intervention at one academic primary care clinic in January 2018. Caregivers who screened positive for immigration-related concerns and were referred to a local immigration law firm were invited to participate in a semi-structured interview. Interviews were recorded, de-identified, transcribed, and systematically coded using an inductive content analysis approach. A modified constant comparative method was used to iteratively review codes, identify emerging themes, and resolve differences through consensus. Results: Nineteen caregivers reported immigration-related legal concerns, seven of whom were interviewed. Most (84.2%) were mothers, identified as Hispanic (94.7%), were from Mexico (52.6%), and reported persecution and fear of returning to their country of origin (57.9%). In interviews, we identified three major themes: (1) families were motivated to immigrate due to mental health trauma and persecution; (2) families sought legal services for several immigration-related concerns; and (3) families experienced challenges in navigating the legal system, with which clinics may assist. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the need for immigration-related services in primary care settings and the feasibility and potential benefits of implementing a legal screening and referral intervention.
The Adaptation and Validation of the Trans Attitudes and Beliefs Scale to the Spanish Context
Authors: López-Sáez Miguel Ángel , Angulo-Brunet Ariadna , Platero R. Lucas , Lecuona Oscar
Published: April 2022

This article examines the reliability and validity of the adaptation of the Trans Attitudes and Beliefs Scale (TABS), an instrument capable of detecting transphobic positions, to the Spanish context. A total of 829 psychology students participated in the adaptation procedure. A confirmatory factor analysis was performed to study the fit of the new scale to the factor structure of the original scale (interpersonal comfort, gender identity beliefs, and human value). Convergent validity evidence showed significant correlations and predictive levels with different constructs and sociodemographic variables. The internal consistency of the mean scores was adequate at the global level. The study showed that the TABS is a psychometrically sound instrument for the assessment of attitudes toward trans people, particularly in the context of debates over access to rights and the lack of professional training in disciplines such as psychology.
The Relationship of Shopping-Related Decisions with Materialistic Values Endorsement, Compulsive Buying-Shopping Disorder Symptoms and Everyday Moral Decision Making
Authors: Müller Astrid , Georgiadou Ekaterini , Birlin Annika , Laskowski Nora M. , Jiménez-Murcia Susana , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , Hillemacher Thomas , de Zwaan Martina , Brand Matthias , Steins-Loeber Sabine
Published: April 2022

Background: Compulsive buying-shopping disorder (CBSD) is associated with high materialistic values endorsement and excessive purchasing of consumer goods. A subgroup of individuals with CBSD engage in socially unacceptable behaviors to continue shopping despite negative consequences. This investigation aimed at exploring possible links between ego-oriented shopping-related decisions, materialism, symptoms of CBSD and close-to-everyday moral decision making. Methods: In study 1, patients with CBSD were interviewed to develop a list of conflict situations, capturing typical shopping-related dilemmas. In study 2, the shopping-related dilemmas from study 1, standardized close-to-everyday moral dilemmas, the Material Values Scale and Pathological Buying Screener were administered to a web-based convenience sample (n = 274). Results: The main effects of a moderated hierarchical regression analysis revealed an association of more ego-oriented shopping-related decisions with both higher materialistic values endorsement and more CBSD symptoms, but not with everyday moral decision-making. However, a more egoistic everyday moral decision making style moderated the effect of CBSD symptoms on ego-oriented shopping related decisions. Conclusions: The findings indicate that a more egoistic everyday moral decision making style is not directly linked to domain-specific shopping-related decision making but strengthens the link between symptoms of CBSD and ego-oriented shopping-related decisions.
Using GIS to Understand Healthcare Access Variations in Flood Situation in Surabaya
Authors: Nurwatik Nurwatik , Hong Jung-Hong , Jaelani Lalu Muhamad , Handayani Hepi Hapsari , Cahyono Agung Budi , Darminto Mohammad Rohmaneo
Published: April 2022

This paper proposes to identify the variation of accessibility to healthcare facilities based on vulnerability assessments of floods by using open source data. The open source data comprises Open Street Map (OSM), world population, and statistical data. The accessibility analysis is more focused on vulnerable populations that might be affected by floods. Therefore, a vulnerability assessment is conducted beforehand to identify the location where the vulnerable population is located. A before and after scenario of floods is applied to evaluate the changes of healthcare accessibility. A GIS Network Analyst is chosen as the accessibility analysis tool. The results indicate that the most vulnerable population lives in the Asemrowo district. The service area analysis showed that 94% of the West of Surabaya was well-serviced in the before scenario. Otherwise, the decrement of service area occurs at the city center in the after scenario. Thus, the disaster manager can understand which vulnerable area is to be more prioritized in the evacuation process.
Hydrological Web Services for Operational Flood Risk Monitoring and Forecasting at Local Scale in Niger
Authors: De Filippis Tiziana , Rocchi Leandro , Massazza Giovanni , Pezzoli Alessandro , Rosso Maurizio , Housseini Ibrahim Mohamed , Tarchiani Vieri
Published: April 2022

Emerging hydrological services provide stakeholders and political authorities with useful and reliable information to support the decision-making process and develop flood risk management strategies. Most of these services adopt the paradigm of open data and standard web services, paving the way to increase distributed hydrometeorological services’ interoperability. Moreover, sharing of data, models, information, and the use of open-source software, greatly contributes to expanding the knowledge on flood risk and to increasing flood preparedness. Nevertheless, services’ interoperability and open data are not common in local systems implemented in developing countries. This paper presents the web platform and related services developed for the Local Flood Early Warning System of the Sirba River in Niger (SLAPIS) to tailor hydroclimatic information to the user’s needs, both in content and format. Building upon open-source software components and interoperable web services, we created a software framework covering data capture and storage, data flow management procedures from several data providers, real-time web publication, and service-based information dissemination. The geospatial infrastructure and web services respond to the actual and local decision-making context to improve the usability and usefulness of information derived from hydrometeorological forecasts, hydraulic models, and real-time observations. This paper presents also the results of the three years of operational campaigns for flood early warning on the Sirba River in Niger. Semiautomatic flood warnings tailored and provided to end users bridge the gap between available technology and local users’ needs for adaptation, mitigation, and flood risk management, and make progress toward the sustainable development goals.
Aquaporins Are One of the Critical Factors in the Disruption of the Skin Barrier in Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Authors: Tricarico Paola Maura , Mentino Donatella , De Marco Aurora , Del Vecchio Cecilia , Garra Sabino , Cazzato Gerardo , Foti Caterina , Crovella Sergio , Calamita Giuseppe
Published: April 2022

The skin is the largest organ of the human body, serving as an effective mechanical barrier between the internal milieu and the external environment. The skin is widely considered the first-line defence of the body, with an essential function in rejecting pathogens and preventing mechanical, chemical, and physical damages. Keratinocytes are the predominant cells of the outer skin layer, the epidermis, which acts as a mechanical and water-permeability barrier. The epidermis is a permanently renewed tissue where undifferentiated keratinocytes located at the basal layer proliferate and migrate to the overlying layers. During this migration process, keratinocytes undertake a differentiation program known as keratinization process. Dysregulation of this differentiation process can result in a series of skin disorders. In this context, aquaporins (AQPs), a family of membrane channel proteins allowing the movement of water and small neutral solutes, are emerging as important players in skin physiology and skin diseases. Here, we review the role of AQPs in skin keratinization, hydration, keratinocytes proliferation, water retention, barrier repair, wound healing, and immune response activation. We also discuss the dysregulated involvement of AQPs in some common inflammatory dermatological diseases characterised by skin barrier disruption.
Hyperosmotic Stress Induces Phosphorylation of CERT and Enhances Its Tethering throughout the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Authors: Shimasaki Kentaro , Kumagai Keigo , Sakai Shota , Yamaji Toshiyuki , Hanada Kentaro
Published: April 2022

The ceramide transport protein (CERT) delivers ceramide from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the Golgi apparatus, where ceramide is converted to sphingomyelin (SM). The function of CERT is regulated in two distinct phosphorylation-dependent events: multiple phosphorylations in a serine-repeat motif (SRM) and phosphorylation of serine 315 residue (S315). Pharmacological inhibition of SM biosynthesis results in an increase in SRM-dephosphorylated CERT, which serves as an activated form, and an enhanced phosphorylation of S315, which augments the binding of CERT to ER-resident VAMP-associated protein (VAP), inducing the full activation of CERT to operate at the ER–Golgi membrane contact sites (MCSs). However, it remains unclear whether the two phosphorylation-dependent regulatory events always occur coordinately. Here, we describe that hyperosmotic stress induces S315 phosphorylation without affecting the SRM-phosphorylation state. Under hyperosmotic conditions, the binding of CERT with VAP-A is enhanced in an S315 phosphorylation-dependent manner, and this increased binding occurs throughout the ER rather than restrictedly at the ER–Golgi MCSs. Moreover, we found that de novo synthesis of SM with very-long acyl chains preferentially increases via a CERT-independent mechanism under hyperosmotic-stressed cells, providing an insight into a CERT-independent ceramide transport pathway for de novo synthesis of SM.
More Prominent Inflammatory Response to Pachyman than to Whole-Glucan Particle and Oat-β-Glucans in Dextran Sulfate-Induced Mucositis Mice and Mouse Injection through Proinflammatory Macrophages
Authors: Hiengrach Pratsanee , Visitchanakun Peerapat , Finkelman Malcolm A. , Chancharoenthana Wiwat , Leelahavanichkul Asada
Published: April 2022

(1→3)-β-D-glucans (BG) (the glucose polymers) are recognized as pathogen motifs, and different forms of BGs are reported to have various effects. Here, different BGs, including Pachyman (BG with very few (1→6)-linkages), whole-glucan particles (BG with many (1→6)-glycosidic bonds), and Oat-BG (BG with (1→4)-linkages), were tested. In comparison with dextran sulfate solution (DSS) alone in mice, DSS with each of these BGs did not alter the weight loss, stool consistency, colon injury (histology and cytokines), endotoxemia, serum BG, and fecal microbiome but Pachyman–DSS-treated mice demonstrated the highest serum cytokine elicitation (TNF-α and IL-6). Likewise, a tail vein injection of Pachyman together with intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced the highest levels of these cytokines at 3 h post-injection than LPS alone or LPS with other BGs. With bone marrow-derived macrophages, BG induced only TNF-α (most prominent with Pachyman), while LPS with BG additively increased several cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10); inflammatory genes (iNOS, IL-1β, Syk, and NF-κB); and cell energy alterations (extracellular flux analysis). In conclusion, Pachyman induced the highest LPS proinflammatory synergistic effect on macrophages, followed by WGP, possibly through Syk-associated interactions between the Dectin-1 and TLR-4 signal transduction pathways. Selection of the proper form of BGs for specific clinical conditions might be beneficial.
Fetuin-A Promotes 3-Dimensional Growth in LNCaP Prostate Cancer Cells by Sequestering Extracellular Vesicles to Their Surfaces to Act as Signaling Platforms
Authors: Ochieng Josiah , Korolkova Olga Y. , Li Guoliang , Jin Renjie , Chen Zhenbang , Matusik Robert J. , Adunyah Samuel , Sakwe Amos M. , Ogunkua Olugbemiga
Published: April 2022

The present studies were conducted to evaluate key serum proteins and other components that mediate anchorage-independent growth (3-D growth) of LNCaP prostate cancer cells as spheroids. The cells were cultured on ultra-low attachment plates in the absence and presence of fetuin-A and with or without extracellular vesicles. The data show that fetuin-A (alpha 2HS glycoprotein) is the serum protein that mediates 3-D growth in these cells. It does so by sequestering extracellular vesicles of various sizes on the surfaces of rounded cells that grow as spheroids. These vesicles in turn transmit growth signals such as the activation of AKT and MAP kinases in a pattern that differs from the activation of these key growth signaling pathways in adherent and spread cells growing in 2-D. In the process of orchestrating the movement and disposition of extracellular vesicles on these cells, fetuin-A is readily internalized in adhered and spread cells but remains on the surfaces of non-adherent cells. Taken together, our studies suggest the presence of distinct signaling domains or scaffolding platforms on the surfaces of prostate tumor cells growing in 3-D compared to 2-D.
Aldehyde Dehydrogenases Expression in Corneal Epithelial Cells with Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency
Authors: Bardag-Gorce Fawzia , Diaz Alissa , Niihara Robert , Stark Jeremy , Cortez Daileen , Lee Alexander , Hoft Richard , Niihara Yutaka
Published: April 2022

Purpose: The purpose of the present study is to investigate the expression of aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) in rabbit corneas with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) and corneas treated with cultured autologous oral mucosa epithelial cell sheet CAOMECS designed to reconstruct the ocular surface with LSCD. Methods: New Zealand white rabbit autologous oral mucosal epithelial cells were isolated from a buccal biopsy and cultured to be grafted back onto corneas of rabbit model of LSCD. Immunofluorescent staining and Western blot analysis were used to compare the expression of ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3 in healthy, LSCD-diseased, CAOMECS treated corneas. Human oral mucosal and corneal epithelial cells (OMECS and CECs) were cultured and treated with retinoic acid (RA) to further investigate the expression of ALDHs. Results: In healthy corneas, ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3 were markedly expressed in basal cells of corneal epithelium. In LSCD diseased corneas, ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3 were markedly expressed in the conjunctivalized apical epithelial cells, the goblet cells, and the stroma. CAOMECS grafted corneas showed a decreased expression of ALDHs as compared to LSCD diseased corneas. Western blot analysis confirmed the up regulation of ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3 expression in LSCD-diseased corneal epithelial cells. CAOMECS expressed low levels of ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3, as compared to diseased CECs (D-CEC). When ALDH1A3 was up regulated by retinoic acid treatment in OMECS, Pax-6 expression was down regulated, suggesting a decrease in regenerative capacity when ALDH enzymes are up regulated. Conclusions: These findings report for the first time the up regulation of ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3 in rabbit corneas with LSCD and document that CAOMECS grafting used to reconstruct corneal epithelium may reduce the expression levels of ALDH enzymes.
Multi-Regression Analysis to Enhance the Predictability of the Seismic Response of Buildings
Authors: Vargas-Alzate Yeudy F. , Gonzalez-Drigo Ramon , Avila-Haro Jorge A.
Published: April 2022

Several methodologies for assessing seismic risk extract information from the statistical relationship between the intensity of ground motions and the structural response. The first group is represented by intensity measures (IMs) whilst the latter by engineering demand parameters (EDPs). The higher the correlation between them, the lesser the uncertainty in estimating seismic damage in structures. In general, IMs are composed by either a single (scalar-based IMs) or a group of features of both the ground motion and the structure (vector-valued IMs); the latter category provides higher efficiency to explain EDPs when compared to the first one. This paper explores how to find new vector-valued IMs, which are highly correlated with EDPs, by means of multi-regression analysis. To do so, probabilistic nonlinear dynamic analyses have been performed by considering a seven-story reinforced concrete building as a testbed. At a first stage, 30 scalar-based IMs have been correlated with 4 EDPs (i.e., 120 groups of IM-EDP pairs have been studied). Afterwards, the structural responses have been classified as elastic, inelastic and a combination of both. It has been analyzed how efficiency behaves when making these classifications. Then, 435 vector-valued IMs have been created to enhance the predictability of the scalar EDPs (i.e., 1740 groups of IM-EDP pairs have been analyzed). Again, the most efficient IMs have been identified. Sufficiency, which is another statistical property desired in IMs, has also been examined. Results show that the efficiency and sufficiency to predict the structural response increase when considering vector-valued IMs. This sophistication has important consequences in terms of design or assessment of civil structures.