bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aesthetic and Functional Rehabilitation of Patients with Genetic Microdontia: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Batisse Cindy , Cousson Pierre-Yves , Nicolas Emmanuel , Bessadet Marion
Published: March 2022

This case report presents the treatment of a 33-year-old patient with a genetic, generalized microdontia of permanent teeth. Microdontia is a developmental dental anomaly of the teeth characterized by a decrease in their size. In the literature, treatment has been multidisciplinary, often utilizing orthodontics and implantology. However, for adult patients with generalized microdontia who do not benefit from these treatments as much, a combination of adhesive dentistry, endodontics and removable prostheses remains a therapeutic alternative to consider. Given the specificities of the patient and the nature of the care, the objective of this treatment option was to manage the patient’s comfort while guaranteeing quality of care. A feature of this treatment was the use of general anesthesia for endodontic treatments and exodontia. Chairside CAD/CAM and adhesive dentistry reduced the chairside time and preserved healthy dental tissue.
Caring for Patients in Need of Palliative Care: Is This a Mission for Acute Care Hospitals? Key Questions for Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Cotogni Paolo , De Luca Anna
Published: March 2022

The prevalence of patients affected by end-stage diseases or advanced cancer is increasing due to an aging population and progression in medicine and public healthcare. The burden of symptoms these people suffer in the last months of life often forces them to seek aid in an emergency department. In developed countries, acute care hospital-based services are often better designed to treat acute clinical conditions than to manage the needs of patients with serious chronic diseases. Thus, the palliative care (PC) population poses very real clinical challenges to healthcare professionals who care for them in hospital settings. The authors have formulated four key questions (who, why, when, and how) to address in order to identify a model for providing the best care for these PC patients. The questions are related to: (1) defining people living with serious chronic diseases; (2) managing the challenge of unplanned hospital admission of these people; (3) identifying PC patients among people with serious chronic diseases; and (4) determining the appropriate work of caring for this inpatient PC population. Clinicians need the knowledge, tools, and services to care for these PC patients, and acute care hospitals should plan the work of caring for these inpatients.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Erosive Tooth Wear among Preschool Children—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yip Kimberley , Lam Phoebe Pui Ying , Yiu Cynthia Kar Yung
Published: March 2022

The prevalence of dental erosion among preschool children and its associated factors range widely between studies. The aims of this review are to evaluate the literature and to determine the prevalence and associated factors of dental erosion among children below 7 years old. An electronic search was undertaken to identify observational studies evaluating the prevalence of dental erosion and its associated factors in children below 7 years old. Dual independent screening, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, meta-analysis, meta-regression, and evaluation of quality of evidence were performed. Twenty-two papers were included. The overall estimated prevalence of dental erosion in children was 39.64% (95% CI: 27.62, 51.65; I2 = 99.9%), with very low certainty of evidence. There was also low-quality evidence suggesting that the likelihood of (1) boys having dental erosion was significantly higher than girls (p < 0.001) and (2) children with digestive disorders having dental erosion was significantly higher than those without such digestive disorders (p = 0.002). Qualitative synthesis identified that more frequent intake of fruit juices and soft drinks correlated with erosive tooth wear. Dental erosion is prevalent among over one-third of preschool children. Digestive disorders and dietary factors are the main potential contributing factors.
Nasrid Granada: The Case for Spain’s Cross-Cultural Identity
Authors: Drayson Elizabeth
Published: March 2022

For 2000 years, the history of Granada has been the story of its peoples—native Iberian, Roman, Jewish, Muslim, Christian and gypsy—who bequeathed a multi-cultural heritage to the city, forged by momentous racial, religious and political conflicts. That heritage is central to Spain’s vexed quest for its own identity, and pre-eminent in that quest is the encounter between Islam and Christianity that took place there. Based on historical sources including oral and written testimonies, early historiography and contemporary historical views, this article considers the answers to two key questions, with specific reference to the Nasrid dynasty of Granada: (i) how did the Nasrids contribute to the culture of Andalusia and the late medieval Mediterranean, and (ii) was religious difference an obstacle to cultural dialogue in Granada in the late Middle Ages? The contention is that Granada’s importance as a meeting place between Islam and Christianity hinges on its apparent transition from Muslim state to Christian enclave, an event crucial to our understanding of the history of the Iberian Peninsula, and also of Europe.
Decreased Solution pH and Increased K+ Uptake Are Related to Ammonium Tolerance in Hydroponically Cultured Plants
Authors: Song Jinnan , Yang Jingli , Jeong Byoung Ryong
Published: March 2022

The ammonium (NH4+) tolerance of plants is an important issue in agriculture, associated with several plant characteristics. So far, plant tissue acidification has been shown as the primary cause of NH4+ toxicity. Suppressed plant growth caused by excess NH4+ can be counteracted by potassium (K+) application. However, the effects of NH4+ tolerances on the differences regarding pH changes together with K+ uptake remain to be determined. Here, we performed an 84 h hydroponic cultivation of five species with different NH4+ tolerances, subjected to three NH4+:NO3− solutions (0:100, 50:50, or 100:0), to investigate the pH changes and ion uptakes. Consequently, the solution pH was lowered over time to varying extents in the presence of NH4+. The NH4+-tolerant ageratum and lettuce, shown to be tolerant to NH4+ in this trial, rapidly lowered the solution pH, whereas extremely NH4+-sensitive salvia and cabbage only gave a minor decrease in the solution pH when grown with 100:0 NH4+:NO3−. Additionally, the increased external NH4+ level led to a substantial decline in the net cation influxes (K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+). As compared to solely NH4+-fed salvia and cabbage, solely NH4+-fed ageratum and lettuce ultimately showed a relatively greater net K+ influx. Taken together, this study discusses how the decreases in pH and K+ are related to NH4+ tolerance in five hydroponically cultured species.
Stress-Inducible Overexpression of SlDDF2 Gene Improves Tolerance against Multiple Abiotic Stresses in Tomato Plant
Authors: Al-Deeb Taghleb , Abo Gamar Mohammad , El-Assi Najib , Al-Debei Hmoud , Al-Sayaydeh Rabea , Al-Abdallat Ayed M.
Published: March 2022

Dehydration-responsive element-binding protein 1 (DREB1)/C-repeat binding factor (CBF) family plays a key role in plant tolerance against different abiotic stresses. In this study, an orthologous gene of the DWARF AND DELAYED FLOWERING (DDF) members in Arabidopsis, SlDDF2, was identified in tomato plants. The SlDDF2 gene expression was analyzed, and a clear induction in response to ABA treatment, cold, salinity, and drought stresses was observed. Furthermore, two transgenic lines (SlDDF2-IOE#6 and SlDDF2-IOE#9) with stress-inducible overexpression of SlDDF2 under Rd29a promoter were generated. Under stress conditions, the gene expression of SlDDF2 was significantly higher in both transgenic lines. The growth performance, as well as physiological parameters, were evaluated in wild-type and transgenic plants. The transgenic lines showed growth retardation phenotypes and had higher chlorophyll content under stress conditions in plants. However, the relative decrease in growth performance (plant height, leaf number, and leaf area) in stressed transgenic lines was lower than that in stressed wild-type plants, compared with nonstressed conditions. The reduction in the relative water content and water loss rate was also lower in the transgenic lines. Compared with wild-type plants, transgenic lines showed enhanced tolerance to different abiotic stresses including water deficit, salinity, and cold. In conclusion, stress-inducible expression of SlDDF2 can be a useful tool to improve tolerance against multiple abiotic stresses in tomato plants.
Efficiency Analysis in Brazil’s Sao Paulo State Local Unified Health System (SUS): From Gender-Ethnicity-Power Inequities to the Dissolution of Health Effectiveness
Authors: Schenkman Simone , Bousquat Aylene , Ferreira Maria Paula
Published: March 2022

Health equity is cross sectioned by the reproduction of social relations of gender, ethnicity and power. The purpose of this article is to assess how intersectional health equity determines societal health levels, in a local efficiency analysis within Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS), among Sao Paulo state municipalities. Fixed Panel Effects Model and Data Envelopment Analysis techniques were applied, according to resources, health production and intersectoral dimensions. The effect variables considered were expectation of life at birth and infant mortality rates, in 2000 and 2010, according to local health regions (HR) and regionalized healthcare networks (RRAS). Inequity was assessed both socioeconomically and culturally (income, education, ethnicity and gender). Both methods demonstrated that localities with higher inequities (income and education, gender and ethnicity oriented), associated or not to vulnerability (young and low-income families, in subnormal urban agglomerations), were the least efficient. Health production contributes too little to health levels, especially at the local level, which is highly correlated to the intersectoral dimension. Intersectional health equity, reinforced in its intertwining with ethnicity, gender and social position, is essential in order to achieve adequate societal health levels, beyond health access or sanitary and clinical efficacy.
Modelling and Determination of Parameters Influencing the Transfer of Microorganisms from Food Contact Materials
Authors: Maitz Stephanie , Schmid Paul Jakob , Kittinger Clemens
Published: March 2022

The transfer of microorganisms on packaging materials to a contact surface has only been investigated in the context of laboratory-produced spiked packaging products and agar surfaces in small quantities (0.03–0.10%) so far. Correspondingly, this study focused on the localization of microorganisms on/in industrially produced packaging materials and on the establishment of an experimental laboratory set-up to determine and quantify the parameters influencing the microbial transport from surfaces and different layers of packaging materials to contact agar media. We established a simple model to determine the transfer of microorganisms from packaging materials to microbiological agar plates. In order to clarify the transfer of microorganisms within the material, the samples were split horizontally in their z-dimension, and so produced layers (inner layers) were investigated for their microbial transfer. The parameters incubation time, applied weight and bacterial load for the samples were investigated in more detail in the outer layers (front/back) and the inner layers. No significant difference in the microbial transfer was observed between the outer and inner layers of all samples. We indicate a time-dependent transfer to the media and an independence of the transfer from the applied weight. Moreover, the number of transferred microorganisms is not dependent on the bacterial load of the samples.
Prevalence and Predictors of Osteoporosis and Osteopenia in Postmenopausal Women of Punjab, India
Authors: Khinda Rubanpal , Valecha Srishti , Kumar Nitin , Walia J. P. S. , Singh Kuldeep , Sethi Sudhir , Singh Avtar , Singh Monica , Singh Puneetpal , Mastana Sarabjit
Published: March 2022

The prevalence and predictors of osteoporosis and osteopenia remain to be examined in the postmenopausal women of Punjab, India. The present cross-sectional study screened 1628 postmenopausal women during September 2019 to March 2020. Osteoporosis and osteopenia were confirmed on the basis of T-scores using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at the hip (femoral neck) and lumbar spine regions (L1–L4 vertebrae). The prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia was observed to be 30.50% and 44.20%, respectively, in postmenopausal women of Punjab. In univariable and multivariable regression analysis, variables independently influencing the risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia were: higher systolic blood pressure (95%CI: 1.22–3.11 & 1.08–2.49), triglyceride levels (95%CI: 1.21–3.10 & 1.42–2.51), poor sleep quality (95%CI: 1.91–2.47 & 1.76–3.47) and C-reactive protein levels (95%CI: 2.18–3.56 & 1.03–2.18). Years since menopause >10 years was observed to be an independent predictor for the risk of osteopenia but not for osteoporosis. Higher body mass index (>30 kg·m−2) was observed to be a significant protective factor against the risk of osteoporosis (95%CI: 0.26–0.68) and osteopenia (95%CI: 0.19–0.52). The higher prevalence rates of osteoporosis and osteopenia in postmenopausal women of Punjab are alarming, which solicits awareness and earlier testing of those women who are approaching menopause.
The Association between Depression and Perceived Stress among Parents of Autistic and Non-Autistic Children—The Role of Loneliness
Authors: Sipowicz Kasper , Pietras Tadeusz , Podlecka Marlena , Mokros Łukasz
Published: March 2022

Having an autistic child significantly impairs the functioning of the family, including the wellbeing of the parents. The aim of this study was to assess whether loneliness mediates the relationship between perceived stress and the severity of depressive symptoms in the studied sample of parents. This cross-sectional study involved 39 parents of autistic children and 45 parents of non-autistic children. They completed a set of tests: a survey on sociodemographic and clinical data and psychometric questionnaires, i.e., Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI), De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale (DJGLS), and Perceived Stress Questionnaire (KPS). A rise in external and intrapsychic stress, independently, was linked to a rise in the severity of depressive symptoms. The severity of depression, loneliness and stress was higher among parents of autistic children compared with parents of non-autistic children. Intrapsychic stress exhibited an indirect effect through loneliness on the worsening of depressive symptoms.
How Does Environmentally Specific Servant Leadership Fuel Employees’ Low-Carbon Behavior? The Role of Environmental Self-Accountability and Power Distance Orientation
Authors: Xia Yuhuan , Liu Yubo , Han Changlin , Gao Yang , Lan Yuanyuan
Published: March 2022

Environmental problems caused by excessive carbon emissions are becoming increasingly prominent and have received heightened attention in recent years. Encouraging people to adopt low-carbon behavior to reduce carbon emissions is desirable. Based on social learning theory, we developed and tested a moderated mediation model to investigate when and how environmentally specific servant (ESS) leadership impacts employees’ low-carbon behavior (i.e., private low-carbon behavior and public low-carbon behavior). We tested our theoretical framework with a sample of 483 subordinates and their direct supervisors working in northern China. The results indicate that ESS leadership is positively related to employees’ low-carbon behavior, and that environmental self-accountability plays a mediating role in this relationship. In addition, power distance orientation strengthens the direct effects of ESS leadership on employees’ environmental self-accountability and low-carbon behavior, as well as the indirect effect of ESS leadership on private low-carbon behavior via environmental self-accountability. Our findings contribute to the literature surrounding ESS leadership and low-carbon behavior, and help to promote green development and thus achieve the goals of carbon neutrality and decreasing carbon dioxide emissions.
Respiratory Protection Perceptions among Malian Health Workers: Insights from the Health Belief Model
Authors: Hines Stella E. , Gaitens Joanna , Mueller Nora M. , Molina Ochoa Diego , Fernandes Eseosa , McDiarmid Melissa A.
Published: March 2022

Reusable respiratory protective devices called elastomeric respirators have demonstrated their effectiveness and acceptability in well-resourced healthcare settings. Using standard qualitative research methods, we explored the feasibility of elastomeric respirator use in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). We conducted interviews and focus groups with a convenience sample of health workers at one clinical center in Mali. Participants were users of elastomeric and/or traditional N95 respirators, their supervisors, and program leaders. Interview transcripts of participants were analyzed using a priori constructs from the Health Belief Model (HBM) and a previous study about healthcare respirator use. In addition to HBM constructs, the team identified two additional constructs impacting uptake of respirator use (system-level factors and cultural factors). Together, these framed the perceptions of Malian health workers and highlighted both facilitators of and barriers to respirator use uptake. As needs for respiratory protection from airborne infectious hazards become more commonly recognized, elastomeric respirators may be a sustainable and economic solution for health worker protection in LMIC.
The Importance of Lifting Height and Load Mass for Muscular Workload during Supermarket Stocking: Cross-Sectional Field Study
Authors: Skovlund Sebastian Venge , Bláfoss Rúni , Skals Sebastian , Jakobsen Markus Due , Andersen Lars Louis
Published: March 2022

High physical work demands increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and sickness absence. Supermarket work involves a high amount of manual material handling. Identifying specific ergonomic risk factors is an important part of occupational health and safety efforts in the supermarket sector. In this cross-sectional field study among 64 supermarket workers, we used electromyography during the workday to determine the influence of lifting height and load mass on muscular workload of the low-back and neck/shoulder muscles during un-restricted manual material handling (grocery stocking). We found a significant effect of load mass, i.e., higher loads associated with higher muscular workload in the low-back and neck/shoulder muscles. We demonstrated a significant interaction between start and end position, i.e., lifts performed from ‘Low’ start positions to ‘High’ end positions demonstrated the highest low-back muscular workload, whereas ‘High’ positions were associated with increased neck/shoulder workload. In conclusion, lifting higher loads and lifting goods from low to high positions (low-back) and at high positions (neck/shoulder) are associated with higher muscular workload. These results can be used to guide highly warranted preventive initiatives to reduce the physical workload during supermarket work.
Correction: Meneguzzo et al. Short-Term Effects of Forest Therapy on Mood States: A Pilot Study. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18, 9509
Authors: Meneguzzo Francesco , Albanese Lorenzo , Antonelli Michele , Baraldi Rita , Becheri Francesco Riccardo , Centritto Francesco , Donelli Davide , Finelli Franco , Firenzuoli Fabio , Margheritini Giovanni , Maggini Valentina , Nardini Sara , Regina Marta , Zabini Federica , Neri Luisa
Published: March 2022

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Age Diversity Climate Affecting Individual-Level Work-Related Outcomes
Authors: Bellotti Lara , Zaniboni Sara , Balducci Cristian , Menghini Luca , Cadiz David M. , Toderi Stefano
Published: March 2022

The present study answers the call for more studies to investigate the age diversity climate’s effect on individual-level outcomes. Building on the social identity approach and social exchange theory, we surveyed 110 Italian employees aged between 18 and 61 years old (M = 46.10, SD = 10.02) and investigated the role of age diversity climate in predicting intentions to quit (H1), job-related wellbeing (H2), and work engagement (H3). Our findings confirmed the hypotheses (H1 and H2), showing the added effect of age diversity climate over and above age, job tenure, role clarity, job demands, job control, perceived support, and perceived job and organizational fit. In fact, age diversity climate accounted for a significant increase in the variance explained for two of the three hypothesized models (i.e., intentions to quit and job-related wellbeing, but not work engagement). To conclude, this study contributes to the existing literature by showing the age diversity climate’s predictive value for turnover intentions and job-related wellbeing, and corroborating the importance of supporting age diversity through a variety of Human Resources Management strategies.
Overview of the Composition of Whole Grains’ Phenolic Acids and Dietary Fibre and Their Effect on Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases
Authors: Khan Jabir , Khan Muhammad , Ma Yulin , Meng Yantong , Mushtaq Aroosa , Shen Qun , Xue Yong
Published: March 2022

Chronic non-communicable diseases are the major cause of death globally. Whole grains are recommended in dietary guidelines worldwide due to increasing evidence that their consumption can improve health beyond just providing energy and nutrients. Epidemiological studies have suggested that the incorporation of whole grains, as part of a healthy diet, plays a key role in reducing one’s risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cancer. Phenolic acids and dietary fibre are important components found in whole grains that are largely responsible for these health advantages. Both phenolic acids and dietary fibre, which are predominantly present in the bran layer, are abundant in whole-grain cereals and pseudo-cereals. Several studies indicate that whole grain dietary fibre and phenolic acids are linked to health regulation. The main focus of this study is two-fold. First, we provide an overview of phenolic acids and dietary fibres found in whole grains (wheat, barley, oats, rice and buckwheat). Second, we review existing literature on the linkages between the consumption of whole grains and the development of the following chronic non-communicable diseases: CVDs, obesity, T2D and cancer. Altogether, scientific evidence that the intake of whole grains reduces the risk of certain chronic non-communicable disease is encouraging but not convincing. Based on previous studies, the current review encourages further research to cover the gap between the emerging science of whole grains and human health.
Research on the Mechanism of Government–Industry–University–Institute Collaborative Innovation in Green Technology Based on Game–Based Cellular Automata
Authors: Li Tuochen , Zhou Xinyu
Published: March 2022

In order to ensure stable cooperation among the government, enterprise and university/institute in the green technology innovation process and guide an increasing number of innovation agents in the region to adopt cooperation, this paper studies the mechanism of green technology innovation. A tripartite evolutionary game model is established and the strategy choices of the government, industry and university/institute are analyzed through mathematical derivation. On this basis, the cellular automata theory is used to explore strategy choices of all innovation agents in the region from the perspective of a spatial game. From the numerical tests, the following results are obtained: increasing the cooperative innovation revenue, fairness of this revenue distribution or penalties for breach of contract can consolidate the cooperative relationship among the government, enterprise and university/institute, achieving the goal of guiding all innovation agents in the region to accept the collaborative innovation mode; regulating the government subsidy or government penalty can consolidate the cooperative relationship among participants in the pilot project, but cannot guide all innovation agents in the region accept the collaboration innovation mode. This paper’s results not only enrich the theory of government–industry–university–institute collaborative innovation in green technology, but provide ideas for stable cooperation mechanisms and comprehensive promotion of this collaborative innovation mode as well.
Approaches to Health Efficiency across the European Space through the Lens of the Health Budget Effort
Authors: Antohi Valentin Marian , Ionescu Romeo Victor , Zlati Monica Laura , Mirica Cristian , Cristache Nicoleta
Published: March 2022

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, financial resources allocated to the health system have been refocused according to priority 0: fighting the pandemic. The main objective of this research is to identify the vulnerabilities affecting the health budget effort in the EU and in the Member States during the health crisis period. The analysis takes into account relevant statistical indicators both in terms of financial allocation to health and expenditure on health protection of the population in the Member States, with the effect being tracked even during the pandemic period. The novelty of the study is the identification of viable directions of intervention based on the structural determination of expenditures related to measures to combat the pandemic and making proposals for changes in public policies based on the determination of the effectiveness of budget allocations in health in relation to the proposed purpose. The main outcome of the study is the identification of the vulnerabilities and the projection of measures to mitigate them in the medium and long term.
Analysis of Adolescent Physical Activity Levels and Their Relationship with Body Image and Nutritional Habits
Authors: Manzano-Sánchez David , Palop-Montoro María Victoria , Arteaga-Checa Milagros , Valero-Valenzuela Alfonso
Published: March 2022

The main objective of this research article was to make a cluster analysis in Compulsory Secondary Education students with regard to their physical activity levels, their relationship with nutritional habits and body perception. In this study, a total of 1089 students participated, to whom a battery of tests was given in order to assess three aspects: levels of physical activity, food consumption habits and perception of body image. The main results indicated that the adolescent sample presented high levels of physical activity in comparison with other studies. In addition, a profile analysis was carried out, showing that there were no differences in physical activity, in nutritional habits or in body-image index. Taking into account gender, women who practice light physical activity had better nutritional habits. On the other hand, boys dominated in the group of moderate-to-high physical activity, while the girls were mainly included in the profile of low physical activity. Finally, body-image index was greater in men than women. It was concluded that is necessary to promote the importance of adequate nutritional habits in addition to physical activity, and it is necessary to promote body image, particularly among adolescent girls, given their low values of physical activity and worse body-image perception in relation to boys.
Using Rasch Analysis to Assess the Psychometric Properties of a Five-Item Version of the General Self-Efficacy Scale in Adolescents
Authors: Steigen Anne Mari , Finbråten Hanne Søberg , Kleppang Annette Løvheim
Published: March 2022

The aim of the present study was to use Rasch analysis to assess the psychometric properties of the five-item version of the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) amongst adolescents aged 13 to 19. In this cross-sectional study, 6265 adolescents responded to a web-based questionnaire. Data collected from lower and upper secondary schools in Norway, during 2018, were analysed using the partial credit parameterisation of the unidimensional Rasch model. The five-item version of the GSES was found to be unidimensional and to have acceptable reliability. The targeting of the scale could have been better. All items had ordered thresholds, indicating that the response categories worked quite well. The five-item version of the GSES has potential for measuring self-efficacy in a general population of adolescents. In surveys concerning adolescents’ mental health, it is important to include aspects of positive mental health and health-promoting factors, such as self-efficacy.
The Development, Implementation, and Feasibility of a Circadian, Light, and Sleep Skills Program for Shipboard Military Personnel (CLASS-SM)
Authors: Harrison Elizabeth M. , Schmied Emily A. , Hurtado Suzanne L. , Easterling Alexandra P. , Glickman Gena L.
Published: March 2022

Service members face unique barriers to sufficient and high quality sleep. In the present study, a circadian, light, and sleep skills program for shipboard military personnel (CLASS-SM) was designed to encourage and inform strategies that support optimal sleep and circadian health in the context of those barriers. Phase 1 included program development and refinement via an iterative formative evaluation, including structured interviews with service members and feedback from veterans and experts, resulting in further tailoring to the population. In Phase 2, the highly tailored program was administered to shipboard personnel (n = 55), and acceptability indicators were measured. Sleep- and circadian-related knowledge (pre- and post-program) and the perceived relevance of, and satisfaction with, program content (post-program) were assessed. Before the intervention, most individuals were unaware that 7–9 h of sleep is recommended (72%) and had little understanding of the physiological effects of light; however, knowledge scores increased significantly post-program, from 51% to 88% correct (p < 0.0001). Reception was positive, with high reported satisfaction and relevance. Most individuals reported that they learned something new (89%), planned to use one or more learned strategies (100%), and intended to share learned information with others (85%); the physiological effects of light and circadian rhythms were the content areas most frequently reported as new and useful. The results demonstrate the need for, and feasibility of, the delivery of this program in operational environments.
The Risk of Herpes Zoster in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Retrospective Population-Based Study
Authors: Hsieh Wen-Che , Chen Chia-Hung , Cheng Yung-Chi , Yu Teng-Shun , Hsu Chung Y. , Ke Der-Shin , Lin Chih-Ming , Hsu Chao-Yu
Published: March 2022

Background: The association between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and the risk of herpes zoster (HZ) remains unclear. This study investigated the risk of HZ in women with PCOS. Methods: This study used data from the Longitudinal Generation Tracking Database (LGTD 2005) which contains the information of 2 million randomly selected from National Health Insurance beneficiaries. Patients who received a diagnosis of PCOS between 2000 and 2017 were included in the PCOS cohort. Patients who were not diagnosed as having PCOS were randomly selected from the LGTD 2005 and included in the control cohort. Patients who were aged <20 years and had a history of HZ before the index date were excluded. Patients who were in both the cohorts were matched at a ratio of 1:1 through propensity score matching based on age, comorbidities, and medication. The primary outcome was the diagnosis of HZ. Results: A total of 20,142 patients were included in each case and control cohorts. The incidence rates of HZ in the PCOS and control cohorts were 3.92 and 3.17 per 1000 person-years, respectively. The PCOS cohort had a significantly higher risk of HZ than did the control cohort (adjusted hazard ratios [aHR] = 1.26). Among the patients aged 30–39 years, those with PCOS had a significantly higher risk of HZ than did those without PCOS (aHR = 1.31). Among the patients without any comorbidities, those with PCOS had a significantly higher risk of HZ (aHR = 1.26) than did those without PCOS. Conclusion: PCOS is associated with the risk of HZ, especially in young women. The risk of HZ should be addressed while treating patients with PCOS. An HZ vaccine is recommended for these patients.
An Exploration of Features Impacting Respiratory Diseases in Urban Areas
Authors: Gryech Ihsane , Ghogho Mounir , Mahraoui Chafiq , Kobbane Abdellatif
Published: March 2022

Air pollution exposure has become ubiquitous and is increasingly detrimental to human health. Small Particulate matter (PM) is one of the most harmful forms of air pollution. It can easily infiltrate the lungs and trigger several respiratory diseases, especially in vulnerable populations such as children and elderly people. In this work, we start by leveraging a retrospective study of 416 children suffering from respiratory diseases. The study revealed that asthma prevalence was the most common among several respiratory diseases, and that most patients suffering from those diseases live in areas of high traffic, noise, and greenness. This paved the way to the construction of the MOREAIR dataset by combining feature abstraction and micro-level scale data collection. Unlike existing data sets, MOREAIR is rich in context-specific components, as it includes 52 temporal or geographical features, in addition to air-quality measurements. The use of Random Forest uncovered the most important features for the understanding of air-quality distribution in Moroccan urban areas. By linking the medical data and the MOREAIR dataset, we observed that the patients included in the medical study come mostly from neighborhoods that are characterized by either high average or high variations of pollution levels.
The Prevalence of Amnestic and Non-Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment and Its Association with Different Lifestyle Factors in a South Italian Elderly Population
Authors: Caffò Alessandro Oronzo , Spano Giuseppina , Tinella Luigi , Lopez Antonella , Ricciardi Elisabetta , Stasolla Fabrizio , Bosco Andrea
Published: March 2022

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a transition stage between normal aging and dementia and can be useful to monitor the cognitive status of people at risk of dementias. Our aims were to investigate the prevalence of amnestic and non-amnestic MCI in a South Italian elderly population, and to identify socio-demographic, clinical and lifestyle factors associated with MCI. A cross-sectional retrospective population study on 839 community-dwelling participants over 60 years of age was carried out. Elderly people were administered a brief neuropsychological screening to identify their cognitive and functional status, and a questionnaire to investigate several socio-demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors. Prevalence estimate for MCI was 12.0% (95% CI: 10.0–14.5%), for amnestic MCI was 7.4% (95% CI: 5.8–9.4%), and for non-amnestic MCI was 4.6% (95% CI: 3.4–6.4%), for people older than 60 years of age. Logistic regression models, corrected for age, sex, and education, revealed a significant association of MCI with the following factors: age, education, intellectual activities, and topographical disorientation. On the other hand, education, clinical factors (e.g., depression level and perceived physical pain), lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, alcohol, and leisure/productive activities), dietary habits, quality of life, and self-reported topographical disorientation were non-significantly associated with MCI. Prevalence estimates and the association of MCI and its subtypes with risk and protective factors were discussed in comparison with the most recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
On Health Effects of Resveratrol in Wine
Authors: Haunschild Robin , Marx Werner
Published: March 2022

We analyzed 3344 publications concerned with the health-related effects of resveratrol that occurs in wine and grapes. We discovered that publication activity increased until 2010 and decreased slightly afterwards. The most frequent author keywords were classified into six groups: (1) beverage-related keywords, (2) compound-related keywords, (3) disease-related keywords, (4) effect-related keywords, (5) mechanism-related keywords, and (6) broader keywords. By means of reference publication year spectroscopy, we analyzed and discussed the most frequently cited references (i.e., key papers) within the publication set. A rather large portion of the key papers exhibit a deliberative or positive attitude and report on the health effects of resveratrol, although limited data in humans preclude drawing unambiguous conclusions on its health-related benefits. From our analysis, we could not identify specific publications that provide a distinct change of direction of the ongoing scientific discourse. Moderate red wine consumption seems to bear the potential of being health promoting, whereas excessive alcohol consumption can induce liver cirrhosis and cancer.
Biochemical Characterization and Molecular Determination of Estrogen Receptor-α (ESR1 PvuII-rs2234693 T>C) and MiRNA-146a (rs2910164 C>G) Polymorphic Gene Variations and Their Association with the Risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Mir Rashid , Tayeb Faris J. , Barnawi Jameel , Jalal Mohammed M. , Saeedi Nizar H. , Hamadi Abdullah , Altayar Malik A. , Alshammari Sanad E. , Mtiraoui Nabil , Ali Mohammed Eltigani , Duhier Faisel M. Abu , Ullah Mohammad Fahad
Published: March 2022

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is regarded as one of the most frequently encountered endocrine disorders and affects millions of young women worldwide, resulting in an array of complex metabolic alterations and reproductive failure. PCOS is a risk factor for diabetes mellitus, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity and depression in patients. Estrogen receptors (ESRs) are significant candidates in endocrine function and ovarian response in women. Moreover, microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs are emerging as principal mediators of gene expression and epigenetic pathways in various disease states. This study has characterized the clinical parameters in PCOS patients with comprehensive biochemical profiling compared to healthy controls and further examined the influence of allelic variations for estrogen receptor-α (ESR1 PvuII-rs2234693 T>C) and miRNA-146a (rs2910164 C>G) gene polymorphism on the risk of and susceptibility to PCOS. In this case-control study, we have used amplification refractory mutation specific (ARMS)-PCR to detect and determine the presence of these polymorphic variants in the study subjects. Our results demonstrated that most of the biochemical markers, which were analyzed in the study, show statistically significant alterations in PCOS patients, including fasting glucose, free insulin, HOMA-IR, LDL, HDL, cholesterol and hormones such as FSH, LH, testosterone and progesterone, which correlate with the established biochemical alterations in the disorder. Further, it is reported that for estrogen receptor-α (ESR1 PvuII-rs2234693 T>C), the frequency of the T allele (fT) was significantly higher among patients (0.64 vs. 0.44) compared to controls, while the frequency of the C allele (fC) was lower in patients (0.36 vs. 0.56) compared to controls. However, it was found that there was no association of an increased risk of PCOS with the ESR1 PvuII-rs2234693 C>T gene polymorphism. On the contrary, the study found strong association of miRNA-146a (rs2910164 C>G) gene polymorphism with an enhanced risk of PCOS. The frequency of the C allele (fC) was significantly higher among patients (0.52 vs. 0.36) compared to controls. The frequency of the G allele (fG) was found to be lower in patients (0.48 vs. 0.64) compared to controls. The codominant, dominant and recessive models display a statistically significant association of polymorphic variations with PCOS. Moreover, the G allele was associated strongly with PCOS susceptibility with an OR = 1.92 (95%) CI = (1.300–2.859), RR = 1.38 (1.130–1.691) p-value < 0.001.
Spanish Cross-Cultural Validation of the Electronic Version of the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5)
Authors: Lizarraga-Limousin Raquel , Medrano-Sánchez Esther M. , Díaz-Mohedo Esther , Vergara-de-Carlos Lorena
Published: March 2022

The IIEF-5 questionnaire is a validated scale used as a diagnostic tool in erectile dysfunction (ED). This simplified version includes five items that focus on erectile function and satisfaction during sexual intercourse; it has favourable properties for detecting the presence and severity of erectile dysfunction The main objective of this study was to make a cross-cultural adaptation to Spanish of the IIEF-5 scale and to evaluate its psychometric properties of validity, reliability, and feasibility in the Spanish population. Validation of the IIEF-5 included: (i) professional translation of the scale; (ii) scientific evaluation of the translation; (iii) professional retranslation; (iv) assessment of 10 individuals to test correct comprehension and idiomatic adequacy; (v) validation of the IIEF-5 by an online survey. The study sample consisted of 100 participants, who received the online form either directly or through other participants who distributed it. Participants obtained a mean score of 22.3 (SD 2.7), implying normal erectile function. However, 23 results of mild dysfunction (n = 23) and 2 of mild to moderate dysfunction (5.1%) were identified. A Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.75 was obtained for the total of the final questionnaire, indicating high reliability. Validity analysis had a value of 0.784 (>0.5) and was therefore considered appropriate. The IIEF-5 scale is a reliable tool to test ED, and its Spanish version is satisfactorily understood by patients.
The Effectiveness and Cost of an Intervention to Increase the Provision of Preventive Care in Community Mental Health Services: Protocol for a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Fehily Caitlin , McKeon Emma , Stettaford Tegan , Campbell Elizabeth , Lodge Simone , Dray Julia , Bartlem Kate , Reeves Penny , Oldmeadow Christopher , Castle David , Lawn Sharon , Bowman Jenny
Published: March 2022

Preventive care to address chronic disease risk behaviours is infrequently provided by community mental health services. In this cluster-randomised controlled trial, 12 community mental health services in 3 Local Health Districts in New South Wales, Australia, will be randomised to either an intervention group (implementing a new model of providing preventive care) or a control group (usual care). The model of care comprises three components: (1) a dedicated ‘healthy choices’ consultation offered by a ‘healthy choices’ clinician; (2) embedding information regarding risk factors into clients’ care plans; and (3) the continuation of preventive care by mental health clinicians in ongoing consultations. Evidence-based implementation strategies will support the model implementation, which will be tailored by being co-developed with service managers and clinicians. The primary outcomes are client-reported receipt of: (1) an assessment of chronic disease risks (tobacco smoking, inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption, harmful alcohol use and physical inactivity); (2) brief advice regarding relevant risk behaviours; and (3) referral to at least one behaviour change support. Resources to develop and implement the intervention will be captured to enable an assessment of cost effectiveness and affordability. The findings will inform the development of future service delivery initiatives to achieve guideline- and policy-concordant preventive care delivery.
Technological Solutions for Diagnosis, Management and Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Symptoms: A Structured Review of the Recent Scientific Literature
Authors: Cammisuli Davide Maria , Cipriani Gabriele , Castelnuovo Gianluca
Published: March 2022

In people with Alzheimer’s disease (PwAD), there is a need for specific tools for the timely diagnosis, management, and treatment of symptoms. New technological solutions, including digital devices, application programs (apps), sensors and virtual reality, represent promising possibilities for objective and reliable assessment, monitoring and intervention strategies in this field. Our structured review presents an up-to-date summary of the technological solutions for the (i) diagnosis, (ii) management and (iii) treatment of AD-related symptoms. To this end, we searched electronic databases (i.e., PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) for studies published over the last 10 years. Two authors of the review extracted data of interest. A total of eight manuscripts were included. In the last decade, a series of technological solutions across AD stages have been proposed. These include: (i) innovative strategies for the early detection of deficits in finger dexterity, visuo-spatial abilities (including spatial navigation), divided attention and instrumental autonomy; (ii) tools to activate the patient’s responsiveness in terms of alertness and mood improvement; and (iii) useful interventions for retrieving memories, increasing body movements and improving spatial cognition. Methodological limitations, mainly pertaining to the paucity of randomized controlled trials and comprehensive assessments, were observed. Advances in technology currently provide the potential for designing innovative methods for evaluating, controlling and handling AD-related symptoms. The co-creation of technological solutions with all stakeholders represents the best way to design effective strategies for PwAD.
Over Half of Falls Were Associated with Psychotropic Medication Use in Four Nursing Homes in Japan: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Oya Nozomu , Ayani Nobutaka , Kuwahara Akiko , Kitaoka Riki , Omichi Chie , Sakuma Mio , Morimoto Takeshi , Narumoto Jin
Published: March 2022

Medication use can increase the risk of falls and injuries in nursing homes, creating a significant risk for residents. We performed a retrospective cohort study over one year to identify the incidence of drug-related falls with and without injury among four Japanese nursing homes with 280 beds. We evaluated the relationship between potential risk factors for falls and fall-related injuries while considering well-known risks such as ADLs and chronic comorbidities. By collaboratively reviewing care records, we enrolled 459 residents (mean age, 87) and identified 645 falls, including 146 injurious falls and 16 severe injurious falls requiring inpatient care, incidence: 19.5, 4.4, 0.5 per 100 resident-months, respectively. Medication influenced around three-quarters of all falls, >80% of which were psychotropic drugs. Regularly taking ≥5 medications was a risk factor for the initial falls (HR 1.33: CI 1.00–1.77, p = 0.0048) and injuries after falls (OR 2.41: CI 1.30–4.50, p = 0.006). Our findings on the incidence of falls with and without injury were similar to those in Western countries, where the use of psychotropic medication influenced >50% of falls. Discontinuing unnecessary medication use while simultaneously assessing patient ADLs and comorbidities with physicians and pharmacists may help to avoid falls in nursing homes.