bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lignocellulose Nanofibre Obtained from Agricultural Wastes of Tomato, Pepper and Eggplants Improves the Performance of Films of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) for Food Packaging
Authors: Bascón-Villegas Isabel , Sánchez-Gutiérrez Mónica , Pérez-Rodríguez Fernando , Espinosa Eduardo , Rodríguez Alejandro
Published: December 2021

Films formulated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (synthetic biopolymer) were reinforced with lignocellulose nanofibres (LCNF) from residues of vegetable production (natural biopolymer). The LCNF were obtained by mechanical and chemical pre-treatment by 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl radical (TEMPO) and added to the polyvinyl alcohol (polymer matrix) with the aim of improving the properties of the film for use in food packaging. The mechanical properties, crystallinity, thermal resistance, chemical structure, antioxidant activity, water barrier properties and optical properties (transparency and UV barrier), were evaluated. In general, with the addition of LCNF, an improvement in the studied properties of the films was observed. In terms of mechanical properties, the films reinforced with 7% LCNF TEMPO showed the best results for tensile strength, Young’s modulus and elongation at break. At the same LCNF proportion, the thermal stability (Tmax) increased between 5.5% and 10.8%, and the antioxidant activity increased between 90.9% and 191.8%, depending on the raw material and the pre-treatment used to obtain the different LCNF. Finally, a large increase in UV blocking was also observed with the addition of 7% LCNF. In particular, the films with 7% of eggplant LCNF showed higher performance for Young’s modulus, elongation at break, thermal stability and UV barrier. Overall, results demonstrated that the use of LCNF generated from agricultural residues represents a suitable bioeconomy approach able to enhance film properties for its application in the development of more sustainable and eco-friendly food packaging systems.
The Effect of Combined Superheated Steam Roasting and Smoking on the Quality Characteristic of Alaska Pollack (Gadus chalcogrammus) Roe
Authors: Tirtawijaya Gabriel , Lee Jin-Hwa , Jang Jong-Su , Kim Do-Youb , Sohn Jae-Hak , Choi Jae-Suk
Published: December 2021

Alaska pollack roe (APR) is a protein source that is usually salted and fermented, containing a high salt content. Using a combination of superheated steam roasting and smoking, we developed a new low-salt ready-to-eat APR variant, whose quality characteristics we analyzed. The optimal conditions for roasting (216 °C for 4 min) and smoking (64 °C for 14 min) were obtained from sensorial attributes using response surface methodology. Under the optimal conditions, smoke-roasted APR had an overall acceptance (OA) score of 8.89. The combination of roasting and smoking significantly increased volatile basic nitrogen (VBN, 18.6%) and decreased the total bacterial count (TBC, 38.6%), while thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were not affected. Smoke-roasting APR also increased its nutritional content to 30% protein with 44% essential amino acids, and more than 40% DHA and EPA in 4.3% fat. During 30 days of storage, the OA, VBN, TBARS, and TBC values significantly changed with time and storage temperature (p < 0.05). The shelf life of the product was estimated to be 24 d. In conclusion, the combination of roasting and smoking APR could improve product quality and may be an alternative to diversify processed APR.
Oat Protein Concentrates with Improved Solubility Produced by an Enzyme-Aided Ultrafiltration Extraction Method
Authors: Immonen Mika , Myllyviita Julia , Sontag-Strohm Tuula , Myllärinen Päivi
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study was to develop an extraction method to produce highly functional oat protein concentrates. We investigated the possibility of combining enzyme-aided slightly alkaline (pH 8.0) extraction with ultrafiltration and subsequent diafiltration for concentration of the extracted oat proteins. A further aim was to study how the deamidation of oat proteins with protein-glutaminase (PG) improves the solubility of proteins as a function of the following parameters: pH (6.0–9.0), enzyme dosage (4–20 U/g protein), and incubation time (1–4 h) with response surface methodology (RSM). Furthermore, we investigated selected functional properties, such as heat-induced gelation and solubility, of the oat protein concentrates. The chosen parameters for the enzymatic deamidation pre-treatment process by PG were as follows: pH 8.0, dosage 11.0 U/g protein, and an incubation time of 4 h (1 h at native pH and 3 h at pH 8.0). Two oat protein concentrates were produced, non-deamidated and ultrafiltered, and deamidated and ultrafiltered, with protein concentrations of 45.0 and 52.4%, respectively. The solubility of both oat protein concentrates was significantly improved at neutral and slightly alkaline pH compared to the solubility of proteins extracted from the starting material. Additionally, both oat protein concentrates produced equally strong heat-induced gel-like structures at a protein concentration of 10%.
Food Security and the COVID-19 Crisis from a Consumer Buying Behaviour Perspective—The Case of Bangladesh
Authors: Rabbi Mohammad Fazle , Oláh Judit , Popp József , Máté Domicián , Kovács Sándor
Published: December 2021

Since COVID-19 was confirmed in Bangladesh in March 2020, the government have enacted stringent measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, which has had a significant impact on people’s lives. Food consumption habits of consumers have shifted as a result of declining grocery shopping frequency, negative income shock, and food prices shooting up. This paper aims to explore Bangladeshi consumers’ buying behaviour in association with the stress generated from a food supply shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic and the post-outbreak perception of the food industry, using a dataset with 540 online samples collected between July and August 2021. A two-stage cluster sampling method and self-administrated questionnaire techniques were adopted for collecting the data during the third wave of COVID-19. Using partial least squares path modelling (PLS-PM) and multivariate multiple ordered logit regression (MVORD) to reveal the pertinent structure between all the blocks, this study provides two key findings. First, a higher intensity of COVID-19 impact translates into higher food stress associated with income reduction and higher food prices. Second, food stress directly affects consumer buying and consumption behaviour. We strongly recommend connecting consumers with local producers and collective use of shared warehouses through institutions, policies, and reforms to prevent disruption in the food supply chain and to keep food prices stable. Additionally, food producers, distributors, stakeholders, and policy planners should strengthen the food supply chain to stabilize food security.
Protein Enrichment of Wheat Bread with Microalgae: Microchloropsis gaditana, Tetraselmis chui and Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Qazi Waqas Muhammad , Ballance Simon , Kousoulaki Katerina , Uhlen Anne Kjersti , Kleinegris Dorinde M. M. , Skjånes Kari , Rieder Anne
Published: December 2021

Cell wall disrupted and dried Microchloropsis gaditana (Mg), Tetraselmis chui (Tc) and Chlorella vulgaris (Cv) microalgae biomasses, with or without ethanol pre-treatment, were added to wheat bread at a wheat flour substitution level of 12%, to enrich bread protein by 30%. Baking performance, protein quality and basic sensory properties were assessed. Compared to wheat, Mg, Tc and Cv contain higher amounts of essential amino acids and their incorporation markedly improved protein quality in the bread (DIAAS 57–66 vs. 46%). The incorporation of microalgae reduced dough strength and bread volume and increased crumb firmness. This was most pronounced for Cv and Tc but could be improved by ethanol treatment. Mg gave adequate dough strength, bread volume and crumb structure without ethanol treatment. To obtain bread of acceptable smell, appearance, and colour, ethanol treatment was necessary also for Mg as it markedly reduced the unpleasant smell and intense colour of all algae breads. Ethanol treatment reduced the relative content of lysine, but no other essential amino acids. However, it also had a negative impact on in vitro protein digestibility. Our results show that Mg had the largest potential for protein fortification of bread, but further work is needed to optimize pre-processing and assess consumer acceptance.
Radiation Proctitis: The Potential Role of Hyaluronic Acid in the Prevention and Restoration of Any Damage to the Rectal Mucosa among Prostate Cancer Patients Submitted to Curative External Beam Radiotherapy
Authors: Ferini Gianluca , Tripoli Antonella , Umina Vincenza , Borzì Giuseppina Rita , Marchese Valentina Anna , Illari Salvatore Ivan , Cacciola Alberto , Lillo Sara , Parisi Silvana , Valenti Vito
Published: December 2021

Aim: To evaluate if hyaluronic acid reduces proctitis episodes with respect to corticosteroids in prostate cancer patients submitted to radical or adjuvant radiotherapy. Methods: A consecutive series of eligible patients received hyaluronic acid enemas as supportive care (experimental group, from January 2013 to June 2015). A historical group (control group), treated from October 2011 to December 2012, received beclomethasone dipropionate suppositories. We registered each patient’s data regarding acute and chronic proctitis. All patients were treated with static-intensity-modulated radiotherapy coupled to a daily set-up verification with orthogonal anterior–posterior/lateral X-ray pairs. Results: A total of 269 patients, 175 in the experimental group and 94 in the control group, was evaluated; 2 Gy/day (up to a total median dose of 80 Gy) and 2.7 Gy/day (up to a total median dose of 67.5 Gy) fractionation schemes were used for 216 and 53 patients, respectively. All patients had a good tolerance to radiotherapy, reporting no G3 or greater proctitis. No significant difference was reported concerning the total rate of proctitis between the two groups but only with respect to its grade: a higher G2 rate within the control group. There was no correlation between daily dose fractionation and toxicity grade. Conclusions: Hyaluronic acid enemas might be effective in reducing the severity of radiation proctitis.
Relationship between Structure and Rheology of Hydrogels for Various Applications
Authors: Stojkov Gorjan , Niyazov Zafarjon , Picchioni Francesco , Bose Ranjita K.
Published: December 2021

Hydrogels have gained a lot of attention with their widespread use in different industrial applications. The versatility in the synthesis and the nature of the precursor reactants allow for a varying range of hydrogels with different mechanical and rheological properties. Understanding of the rheological behavior and the relationship between the chemical structure and the resulting properties is crucial, and is the focus of this review. Specifically, we include detailed discussion on the correlation between the rheological characteristics of hydrogels and their possible applications. Different rheological tests such as time, temperature and frequency sweep, among others, are described and the results of those tests are reported. The most prevalent applications of hydrogels are also discussed.
Family Histories, Family Stories and Family Secrets: Late Discoveries of Being Adopted
Authors: Clapton Gary
Published: December 2021

This paper reviews what we know about the experiences of adopted people who discover in later-life that they are adopted. It begins by discussing how and why various facets of the adoption experience have come to the fore over the 20th and 21st century time span of contemporary adoption. The paper concludes with the fact that research on the late discovery of adoption is in its infancy. It also points to parallels that will exist for people who have been conceived by anonymous donation and raises additional areas for possible research.
The Genetic Basis of Anthocyanin Acylation in North American Grapes (Vitis spp.)
Authors: Karn Avinash , Diaz-Garcia Luis , Reshef Noam , Zou Cheng , Manns David C. , Cadle-Davidson Lance , Mansfield Anna Katharine , Reisch Bruce I. , Sacks Gavin L.
Published: December 2021

Hydroxycinnamylated anthocyanins (or simply ‘acylated anthocyanins’) increase color stability in grape products, such as wine. Several genes that are relevant for anthocyanin acylation in grapes have been previously described; however, control of the degree of acylation in grapes is complicated by the lack of genetic markers quantitatively associated with this trait. To characterize the genetic basis of anthocyanin acylation in grapevine, we analyzed the acylation ratio in two closely related biparental families, Vitis rupestris B38 × ‘Horizon’ and ‘Horizon’ × Illinois 547-1, for 2 and 3 years, respectively. The acylation ratio followed a bimodal and skewed distribution in both families, with repeatability estimates larger than 0.84. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping with amplicon-based markers (rhAmpSeq) identified a strong QTL from ‘Horizon’ on chromosome 3, near 15.85 Mb in both families and across years, explaining up to 85.2% of the phenotypic variance. Multiple candidate genes were identified in the 14.85–17.95 Mb interval, in particular, three copies of a gene encoding an acetyl-CoA-benzylalcohol acetyltransferase-like protein within the two most strongly associated markers. Additional population-specific QTLs were found in chromosomes 9, 10, 15, and 16; however, no candidate genes were described. The rhAmpSeq markers reported here, which were previously shown to be highly transferable among the Vitis genus, could be immediately implemented in current grapevine breeding efforts to control the degree of anthocyanin acylation and improve the quality of grapes and their products.
Investigation of Isocitrate Dehydrogenase 1 and 2 Mutations in Acute Leukemia Patients in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alkhatabi Heba , Bin Saddeq Haneen Abdulfattah , Alyamani Luay , Shinawi Thoraia , Yasin Elrashed B. , Alserihi Raed , Felimban Raed , Tayeb Hossam H. , Mimani Rawan , Alalla Zainab , Abu-Elmagd Muhammad , Abuzenadah Adel
Published: December 2021

Different forms of human cancer show mutations for isocitrate dehydrogenases 1 and 2 (IDH1/2). Mutation of these genes can cause aberrant methylation of the genome CpG islands (CGIs), which leads to an increase of suppressed oncogenes transcription or repression of active tumor suppressor gene transcription. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of IDH1/2 mutations in acute leukemia patients. The study cohort included 43 AML patients and 30 childhood ALL patients, from whom DNA bone marrow samples were taken. The alteration hotspots in codons IDH1 (R132) and IDH2 (R172 and R140) were examined via direct sequencing. Mutations in IDH1 were detected in 7 out of 43 (16.2%) AML patients; 5 of them occurred at codon R132. The other two mutations included a single-nucleotide polymorphism, which affected codon G105 in one patient. However, no mutation was detected in the IDH2 in any of the patients. Moreover, no mutations were detected in either IDH1 or IDH2 in ALL patients. The dominance of IDH1 mutations in AML, which was 16%, emphasizes the existence of the mutation in our population. On the other hand, IDH2 mutation was observed to be less frequent in both illnesses. Due to the limitation of using a small sample size, larger cohort screening is recommended to determine their usefulness as prognostic indicators.
The FORCE Panel: An All-in-One SNP Marker Set for Confirming Investigative Genetic Genealogy Leads and for General Forensic Applications
Authors: Tillmar Andreas , Sturk-Andreaggi Kimberly , Daniels-Higginbotham Jennifer , Thomas Jacqueline Tyler , Marshall Charla
Published: December 2021

The FORensic Capture Enrichment (FORCE) panel is an all-in-one SNP panel for forensic applications. This panel of 5422 markers encompasses common, forensically relevant SNPs (identity, ancestry, phenotype, X- and Y-chromosomal SNPs), a novel set of 3931 autosomal SNPs for extended kinship analysis, and no clinically relevant/disease markers. The FORCE panel was developed as a custom hybridization capture assay utilizing ~20,000 baits to target the selected SNPs. Five non-probative, previously identified World War II (WWII) cases were used to assess the kinship panel. Each case included one bone sample and associated family reference DNA samples. Additionally, seven reference quality samples, two 200-year-old bone samples, and four control DNAs were processed for kit performance and concordance assessments. SNP recovery after capture resulted in a mean of ~99% SNPs exceeding 10X coverage for reference and control samples, and 44.4% SNPs for bone samples. The WWII case results showed that the FORCE panel could predict first to fifth degree relationships with strong statistical support (likelihood ratios over 10,000 and posterior probabilities over 99.99%). To conclude, SNPs will be important for further advances in forensic DNA analysis. The FORCE panel shows promising results and demonstrates the utility of a 5000 SNP panel for forensic applications.
Assembly of the Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Chinese Plum (Prunus salicina): Characterization of Genome Recombination and RNA Editing Sites
Authors: Fang Bo , Li Jingling , Zhao Qian , Liang Yuping , Yu Jie
Published: December 2021

Despite the significant progress that has been made in the genome sequencing of Prunus, this area of research has been lacking a systematic description of the mitochondrial genome of this genus for a long time. In this study, we assembled the mitochondrial genome of the Chinese plum (Prunus salicina) using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing data. The mitochondrial genome size of P. salicina was found to be 508,035 base pair (bp), which is the largest reported in the Rosaceae family to date, and P. salicina was shown to be 63,453 bp longer than sweet cherry (P. avium). The P. salicina mitochondrial genome contained 37 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 3 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and 16 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes. Two plastid-derived tRNA were identified. We also found two short repeats that captured the nad3 and nad6 genes and resulted in two copies. In addition, nine pairs of repeat sequences were identified as being involved in the mediation of genome recombination. This is crucial for the formation of subgenomic configurations. To characterize RNA editing sites, transcriptome data were used, and we identified 480 RNA editing sites in protein-coding sequences. Among them, the initiation codon of the nad1 gene confirmed that an RNA editing event occurred, and the genomic encoded ACG was edited as AUG in the transcript. Combined with previous reports on the chloroplast genome, our data complemented our understanding of the last part of the organelle genome of plum, which will facilitate our understanding of the evolution of organelle genomes.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Diabetes Mellitus among War Veterans Seeking Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Mayer Ante , Mizdrak Maja , Babić Marija , Mastelić Tonći , Glavina Trpimir , Božić Joško , Kurir Tina Tičinović
Published: December 2021

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders. However, we should not neglect the somatic aspects of PTSD. Associations with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are particularly concerning because PTSD was associated with an even 53% higher risk for CVD. This study aimed to analyze the prevalence of several CVD risk factors, especially diabetes mellitus among PTSD patients divided into three groups according to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) risk stratification (low, intermediate, and high). This cross-sectional study included one hundred male PTSD veterans. The mean age was 53 (40–67) years. The estimated OSA risk was 95% for the whole cohort, and 53% were in the high-risk group. Median HbA1c was 5.6 (4.6–10)%. The hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels showed that 34 patients were in the prediabetes group, and 20 of them fulfilled the criteria for diabetes. However, only 13 of them were aware of their previous diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. In testing knowledge about diabetes, 62% and only 23% of patients knew the correct definition of HbA1c and level of fasting plasma glucose, respectively. Diabetic patients had insufficient knowledge about diabetic complications and treatment. A higher level of PTSD symptoms in veterans was associated with a higher prevalence of OSA. The results strongly support further research and education into early detection of CVD risk factors associated with PTSD.
Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined with Rehabilitation on Arm and Hand Function in Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Joo-Hyun , Jeun Yu-Jin , Park Hae Yean , Jung Young-Jin
Published: December 2021

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that may enhance motor recovery after stroke. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of tDCS combined with rehabilitation on arm and hand function after stroke. Electronic databases were searched from their inception to September 2021. We performed a systematic review of selected randomized controlled trials, and methodological qualities were measured using the PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database) scale. We calculated the standardized mean difference for effect size using the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis 3.0 software. We selected 28 studies for the systematic review and 20 studies for the meta-analysis. The overall effect size was 0.480 (95% CI [0.307; 0.653], p < 0.05), indicating a moderate effect size of tDCS combined with rehabilitation for upper extremity function in stroke survivors. The tDCS with occupational therapy/physical therapy (0.696; 95% CI [0.390; 1.003], p < 0.05) or virtual reality therapy (0.510; 95% CI [0.111; 0.909], p < 0.05) was also significantly more effective than other treatments. This meta-analysis of 20 randomized controlled trials provides further evidence that tDCS combined with rehabilitation, especially occupational therapy/physical therapy and virtual reality therapy, may benefit upper extremity function of the paretic upper limb in stroke patients.
COVID-19 Impact and Vaccination Willingness among Romanian Patients with Autoimmune/Immune-Mediated Diseases
Authors: Pinte Larisa , Caraiola Simona , Balaban Daniel Vasile , Badea Camelia , Mazilu Diana , Ionescu Georgeta Daniela , Iosub Maria-Ilinca , Bălan Elena-Sabina , Negoi Florentina , Dumitrescu Bianca , Mateescu Bogdan , Ionescu Ruxandra , Parvu Magda Ileana , Baicus Cristian
Published: December 2021

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with immune diseases are a vulnerable population. We aimed to evaluate their access to medical care, as well as their awareness and willingness to obtain the vaccine after a year of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional, multicenter study was conducted on a questionnaire basis, handled both online as well as in person. Results: 651 patients with autoimmune or immune mediated diseases were enrolled. More than half (339/641 [53%]) reported difficulties in obtaining medical care throughout the pandemic and 135/651 ([21%]) of them were confirmed with COVID-19; 442/651, ([68%]) expressed their willingness to be vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. The factors associated with an increased probability of vaccination were the male gender (OR = 2.01, CI95% 1.2–3.7, p = 0.001), the patient’s opinion that she/he was well informed (OR = 3.2, CI 95% 2.1–6.01, p < 0.001), physician’s advice (OR = 2.1, CI 95% 1.3–3.5, p < 0.001), and flu vaccination in the past (OR = 1.5, CI 95% 1.1–2.3, p < 0.001), while those associated with a decreased probability of vaccination were COVID-19 disease in the past medical history (OR = 0.7, CI 95% 0.3-0.95, p = 0.02), and the opinion that patients with autoimmune diseases are at increased risk for adverse reactions (OR = 0.7, CI95% 0.53–0.89, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Given the fact that considering themselves informed regarding vaccination is the most important factor in order to be immunized against SARS-CoV-2, effective information campaigns would substantially increase willingness.
Rhizospheric Fungal Diversities and Soil Biochemical Factors of Fritillaria taipaiensis over Five Cultivation Years
Authors: Zhou Nong , Mu Maojun , Xie Hui , Wu Yu , Zhou You , Li Weidong
Published: December 2021

Fritillaria taipaiensis is a valuable traditional Chinese medicinal plant that has experienced continuous decline over its cropping area. The present study aims to explore the reasons for the quality and growth decline. The fungal diversities and biochemical factors in its rhizospheric soils with cultivation duration from 1 up to 5 years were analyzed and compared. The results showed that rhizospheric fungi of F. taipaiensis belong to six phyla, including Neocallimastigomycota, Glomeromycota, Basidiomycota, Chytridiomycota, Zygomycota and Ascomycota. Thirteen genera (Pseudogymnoascus, Fusarium, Mortierella, Colletotrichum, Laetinaevia, Gibberella, Synchytrium, Lysurus, Trichocladium, Volutella, Monoblepharis, Aquamyces and Trichoderma) constituted the “core community” in the rhizosphere of F. taipaiensis. The dominant fungal genera varied significantly in rhizospheric soils with different cultivation years. The abundance of fungal species in the soil declined with the cultivation year generally. The pH, available P, organic matter and urease activity were the primary factors determining the fungal community composition in the rhizosphere. The content of organic matter, available N, P and K and the activities of urease and alkaline phosphatase decreased with cultivation years. The soil pH increased with cultivation years and was unsuitable for F. taipaiensis growth. These features suggested that long-term single planting altered the fungal community structure, fertility conditions and soil enzyme activities in F. taipaiensis rhizospheric soils, which could be detrimental for plant growth and quality.
Effect of TiO2 Nanoparticles on the Yield and Photophysiological Responses of Cherry Tomatoes during the Rainy Season
Authors: Choi Hyo Gil
Published: December 2021

The rainy season occurs mainly from June to July in Korea, and this season causes insufficient ambient light intensity for the growth of cherry tomato in a greenhouse. Titanium dioxide (TiO2), as a photocatalyst, is known to affect photosynthesis in plants. This study was carried out to investigate the influence of TiO2 foliar spray application on the yield and photophysiological responses of cherry tomato under low ambient light intensity during the rainy season in a greenhouse. Cherry tomato plants were treated with 100 mg·L−1 TiO2 (T1) or 200 mg·L−1 TiO2 (T2) nanoparticle suspension on 26 June. The control group was not treated with TiO2. In the O–J phase of the OJIP transient under a cloudy day (2 July), the slope in the control and T1 groups rose more sharply than that in the T2 group. Conversely, on a clear day (10 July), the J–I phase of the T2 group sharply increased compared to that of the control and T1 groups. On a cloudy day with low ambient light intensity, the rate of electron transport flux from QA to QB per photosystem II reaction center (ET0/RC) and carbon dioxide (CO2) fixation of TiO2-treated plants were increased compared to those of the control. However, on a clear day of high light intensity, the ET0/RC and CO2 fixation of the T2 group were lower than those of the control and Tl groups. The yield of fruit was increased in the T1 group over that in other treatments. TiO2 treatment reduced the size of the fruit and delayed the ripening time, but greatly increased the fruit hardness. These results suggest that setting the concentration and supply amount of TiO2 nanoparticles suitable for various environmental conditions should be prioritized in order to improve the effect of TiO2 nanoparticles in tomato cultivation.
Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism in Severe COVID-19: A Study-Level Meta-Analysis of 21 Studies
Authors: Lobbes Hervé , Mainbourg Sabine , Mai Vicky , Douplat Marion , Provencher Steeve , Lega Jean-Christophe
Published: December 2021

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with COVID-19 in intensive care units (ICU) is frequent, but risk factors (RF) remain unidentified. In this meta-analysis (CRD42020188764) we searched for observational studies from ICUs reporting the association between VTE and RF in Medline/Embase up to 15 April 2021. Reviewers independently extracted data in duplicate and assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. Analyses were conducted using the random-effects model and produced a non-adjusted odds ratio (OR). We analysed 83 RF from 21 studies (5296 patients). We found moderate-certainty evidence for an association between VTE and the D-dimer peak (OR 5.83, 95%CI 3.18–10.70), and length of hospitalization (OR 7.09, 95%CI 3.41–14.73) and intubation (OR 2.61, 95%CI 1.94–3.51). We identified low-certainty evidence for an association between VTE and CRP (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.32–2.53), D-dimer (OR 4.58, 95% CI 2.52–8.50), troponin T (OR 8.64, 95% CI 3.25–22.97), and the requirement for inotropic drugs (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.15–2.43). Traditional VTE RF (i.e., history of cancer, previous VTE events, obesity) were not found to be associated to VTE in COVID-19. Anticoagulation was not associated with a decreased VTE risk. VTE RF in severe COVID-19 correspond to individual illness severity, and inflammatory and coagulation parameters.
Children and Parents’ Awareness Regarding Potential Hazards Derived from the Use of Chemical Products in Greece
Authors: Tsitsimpikou Christina , Georgiadis Nikolaos , Tsarouhas Konstantinos , Kartsidis Panagiotis , Foufa Eleni , Bacopoulou Flora , Choursalas Athanasios , Kouretas Dimitrios , Nikolaidis Alexandros K. , Koulaouzidou Elisabeth A.
Published: December 2021

Over the last decades, human activities prompted the high production and widespread use of household chemical products, leading to daily exposure of humans to several chemicals. The objective of this study was to investigate the frequency of chemicals’ use by children and parents in Greece and estimate the level of risk awareness and understanding among them. A total of 575 parents and children were asked to answer an anonymous, closed-ended, validated, and self-administered questionnaire. One-third of the children and almost half of the parents participating in the study believed that commonly used chemical products do not pose any risk to human health or to the environment, despite the product labelling. The majority of both children (61.8%) and parents (70.6%) were informed about product safety via the product labelling. Around 20% in both groups could not differentiate between systemic toxicity and acute lethal effects depicted by pictograms on the label and milder hazards, such as skin irritation. Moreover, the information on hazard and precautionary statements appearing on the label was very poorly perceived. Therefore, as both children and parents seem not to clearly identify the hazards and risks arising from the use of everyday chemical products, targeted awareness policies should be implemented to support the safe use of household products.
Exercise as a Peripheral Circadian Clock Resynchronizer in Vascular and Skeletal Muscle Aging
Authors: Silva Bruna Spolador de Alencar , Uzeloto Juliana Souza , Lira Fábio Santos , Pereira Telmo , Coelho-E-Silva Manuel J. , Caseiro Armando
Published: December 2021

Aging is characterized by several progressive physiological changes, including changes in the circadian rhythm. Circadian rhythms influence behavior, physiology, and metabolic processes in order to maintain homeostasis; they also influence the function of endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and immune cells in the vessel wall. A clock misalignment could favor vascular damage and indirectly also affect skeletal muscle function. In this review, we focus on the dysregulation of circadian rhythm due to aging and its relationship with skeletal muscle changes and vascular health as possible risk factors for the development of sarcopenia, as well as the role of physical exercise as a potential modulator of these processes.
Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing and Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales in Companion and Animal-Assisted Interventions Dogs
Authors: Roscetto Emanuela , Varriale Chiara , Galdiero Umberto , Esposito Camilla , Catania Maria Rosaria
Published: December 2021

Animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) are being implemented in many countries for the beneficial effects they have on humans. Patients involved in AAI are often individuals at greater risk of acquiring infections, and these activities involve close contact between humans and animals, as is the case with humans living with a pet. The spread of multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales is a serious problem for human health; an integrated One Health strategy is imperative to combat this threat. Companion dogs can be a reservoir of multidrug-resistant pathogens, and animal-to-human transmission could occur during AAI sessions. The aim of this review was to collect the available data on the carriage of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales in companion dogs and in an AAI context. Several papers have generally addressed the issue of microbial transmission during AAIs. Studies on the intestinal carriage of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and/or carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales have mainly been conducted in companion animals while few data are available on the carriage in dogs participating in AAI sessions. This review aims to draw attention to the antibiotic resistance problem in a One Health context and to the importance of extending infection control measures to this human–animal interface, to keep the balance of benefits/risks for AAIs shifted towards the benefits of these activities.
Sensory Processing Sensitivity Questionnaire: A Psychometric Evaluation and Associations with Experiencing the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Malinakova Klara , Novak Lukas , Trnka Radek , Tavel Peter
Published: December 2021

Sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) is a common human neurobiological trait that is related to many areas of human life. This trait has recently received increased public interest. However, solid scientific research on SPS is lagging behind. Progress in this area is also hindered by a lack of comprehensive research tools suitable for a rapid assessment of SPS. Thus, the aim of this study was to offer a newly developed tool, the Sensory Processing Sensitivity Questionnaire (SPSQ), and to assess its psychometric properties and associations with emotional and relational variables measured during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. We found the tool to have good psychometric characteristics: high temporal stability (r = 0.95) and excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.92; McDonald’s ω = 0.92). The fit of the SPSQ bi-factor model was satisfactory: χ2 (88.0) = 506.141; p < 0.001; CFI = 0.993; TLI = 0.990; RMSEA = 0.070; SRMR = 0.039. Testing of configural, metric, scalar and strict invariance suggested that the SPSQ assesses SPS equivalently between males and females. The scale’s validity was supported via a strong association with an existing SPS measure. Further, we observed higher total SPSQ scores among women, students and religious respondents, and we found that more sensitive respondents reported higher feelings of anxiety and more deterioration in relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, this study also identifies people with this trait as being potentially more vulnerable during periods of an increased presence of global stressors.
Which Non-Pharmaceutical Primary Care Interventions Reduce Inequalities in Common Mental Health Disorders? A Protocol for a Systematic Review of Quantitative and Qualitative Studies
Authors: Tanner Louise , Sowden Sarah , Still Madeleine , Thomson Katie , Bambra Clare , Wildman Josephine
Published: December 2021

Common mental health disorders (CMDs) represent a major public health concern and are particularly prevalent in people experiencing disadvantage or marginalisation. Primary care is the first point of contact for people with CMDs. Pharmaceutical interventions, such as antidepressants, are commonly used in the treatment of CMDs; however, there is concern that these treatments are over-prescribed and ineffective for treating mental distress related to social conditions. Non-pharmaceutical primary care interventions, such as psychological therapies and “social prescribing”, provide alternatives for CMDs. Little is known, however, about which such interventions reduce social inequalities in CMD-related outcomes, and which may, unintentionally, increase them. The aim of this protocol (PROSPERO registration number CRD42021281166) is to describe how we will undertake a systematic review to assess the effects of non-pharmaceutical primary care interventions on CMD-related outcomes and social inequalities. A systematic review of quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods primary studies will be undertaken and reported according to the PRISMA-Equity guidance. The following databases will be searched: Assia, CINAHL, Embase, Medline, PsycInfo and Scopus. Retrieved records will be screened according to pre-defined eligibility criteria and synthesised using a narrative approach, with meta-analysis if feasible. The findings of this review will guide efforts to commission more equitable mental health services.
Interaction Structures in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for Adolescents
Authors: Can Barış , Halfon Sibel
Published: December 2021

Despite advances in psychotherapy research showing an evidence-base for psychodynamic psychotherapy (PDT) in adolescents, developmentally specific treatment characteristics are under-researched. We aimed to identify interaction structures (IS: reciprocal patterns of in-session interactions involving therapist interventions, patient behaviors, and the therapeutic relationship) and assess associations between IS and outcome. The study cohort comprised 43 adolescents (Mage = 13.02 years) with nonclinical, internalizing, and comorbid internalizing–externalizing problems in PDT. A total of 123 sessions from different treatment phases were rated based on the Adolescent Psychotherapy Q-Set (APQ). Outcome was assessed with the Brief Problem Monitor-Youth (BPM-Y) administered repeatedly over the treatment course. Principal component analysis of APQ items resulted in five IS, named “Negative Therapeutic Alliance”, “Demanding Patient, Accommodating Therapist”, “Emotionally Distant Resistant Patient”, “Inexpressive Patient, Inviting Therapist”, and “Exploratory Psychodynamic Technique” (EPT). Multilevel modeling analyses with Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) estimations indicated a two-way interaction effect between EPT and problem levels at baseline such that patients with lower problems at baseline showed good outcome in the context of EPT, whereas an inverse relationship was found for patients with higher problems. Findings provide empirical evidence for characteristic components of PDT for adolescents and preliminary answers about who benefits from psychodynamic techniques.
Potential of Community Volunteers in Flood Early Warning Dissemination: A Case Study of Bangladesh
Authors: Al-Mueed Murtuza , Chawdhery Md Rafique Ahasan , Harera Emmanuel , Alhazmi Riyadh A. , Mobrad Abdulmajeed M. , Althunayyan Saqer M. , Al-Wathinani Ahmed M.
Published: December 2021

Flood early warning (FEW) is a vital component of disaster risk management and is particularly important for saving lives, developing a sustainable agro-based economy, economic stability, and the overall development of the people of Bangladesh as well as others. This study was conducted in a northern, flood-prone area of Bangladesh to investigate the potential of incorporating volunteers of the community to the Union Councils (UCs) to disseminate FEW alongside the top-down approach. Several studies have found that despite having a sophisticated flood forecasting technology, local communities are not reaping the benefits of it, as the existing dissemination system is inaccessible to most local people. Since risk communication takes place in a social context, this study investigated and thereby proposed that volunteerism, as a form of social capital or communal virtue, can potentially assist the community-based disaster management (CBDM) institutions in enhancing their capacity to reach the maximum population at times of flood risk. Therefore, it was confirmed that the trained volunteers need to be integrated into and endorsed by the national policy. In addition, this study also provides a number of recommendations connecting literature with policy documents of Bangladesh.
When Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Predicts Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Poor Sleep—Results from a Larger Cross-Sectional and Quasi-Longitudinal Study
Authors: Khazaie Habibolah , Khazaie Sepideh , Zakiei Ali , Dürsteler Kenneth M. , Brühl Annette Beatrix , Brand Serge , Sadeghi-Bahmani Dena
Published: December 2021

Poor sleep is associated with a higher risk of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) as a proxy of unfavorable emotion regulation. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that past non-suicidal self-injury was associated with current non-suicidal self-injury and with current subjective sleep patterns. To this end, a larger sample of young adults were assessed. A total of 2374 adults (mean age: 27.58 years; 39.6% females) completed a series of self-rating questionnaires covering sociodemographic information, past and current NSSIs, suicide attempts, and current sleep patterns, including experiencing nightmares. Past NSSIs predicted current NSSIs. Current sleep patterns had a modest impact on the association between past and current NSSIs. Compared to male participants, female participants did not report more sleep complaints or more current NSSIs, but more past NSSIs. Past NSSIs predicted the occurrences of nightmares and suicide attempts. The best predictor of current NSSI was the remembered past NSSI, while current poor sleep was only modestly associated with current NSSI. Further indicators of current NSSI and poor sleep were suicide attempts and nightmares within the last six months. Overall, it appears that poor emotion regulation should be considered as underlying factor to trigger and maintain non-suicidal self-injury-related behavior and poor sleep. Further, unlike previous studies, which focused on the possible influence of sleep patterns on NSSIs, the aim of the present study paradigm was to investigate NSSIs on sleep patterns.
Health Risk Assessment of Exposure to 15 Essential and Toxic Elements in Spanish Women of Reproductive Age: A Case Study
Authors: Sáez Carmen , Sánchez Alfredo , Yusà Vicent , Dualde Pablo , Fernández Sandra F. , López Antonio , Corpas-Burgos Francisca , Aguirre Miguel Ángel , Coscollà Clara
Published: December 2021

This case study investigates the exposure of 119 Spanish women of reproductive age to 5 essential (Co, Cu, Mn, V, Zn) and 10 toxic (Ba, Be, Cs, Ni, Pb, Pt, Sb, Th, Al, U) elements and assesses their risk. The essential elements (Co, Cu, Mn, V, and Zn) showed average concentrations (GM: geometric mean) of 0.8, 35, 0.5, 0.2, and 347 μg/L, respectively. Five of the toxic elements (Ba, Cs, Ni, Al, U) exhibited detection frequencies of 100%. The GM concentrations of the novel toxic elements were 12 μg/L (Al), 0.01 μg/L (Pt), 0.02 μg/L (U), 0.12 μg/L (Th), 0.009 μg/L (Be) and 4 μg/L (Cs). The urine analysis was combined with a survey to assess any variations between subgroups and potential predictors of exposure to elements in the female population. Significant differences were obtained between the rural and urban areas studied for the toxic element Cs, with higher levels found in mothers living in urban areas. In relation to diet, statistically significantly higher levels of essential (Cu) and toxic (Ba) elements were detected in women with a high consumption of fish, while mothers who consumed a large quantity of legumes presented higher levels of the toxic element Ni (p = 0.0134). In a risk-assessment context, hazard quotients (HQs) greater than 1 were only observed for the essential elements Zn and Cu in P95. No deficiency was found regarding the only essential element for which a biomonitoring equivalent for nutritional deficit is available (Zn). For the less-studied toxic elements (Al, Pt, U, Th, Be, and Cs), HQs were lower than 1, and thus, the health risk due to exposure to these elements is expected to be low for the female population under study.
New Access Routes to Undertreated Populations; How Do Problem Substance Users Recruited from an Unemployment Office Differ from Detoxification Treatment Inpatients?
Authors: Scherbaum Norbert , Mikoteit Thomas , Witkowski Lilia , Bonnet Udo , Specka Michael , Schifano Fabrizio , Lieb Bodo
Published: December 2021

Background: Only a minority of subjects with substance use disorders (SUDs) are in addiction-specific treatment (treatment gap). Co-operation between an unemployment office and a psychiatric hospital was established for the assessment and counseling of long-term unemployed clients with SUD. We aim at validating whether such a treatment gap exists in that group, and whether clients from an unemployment office differed from a matched group of inpatient detoxification patients with regard to socio-economic characteristics, substance use and treatment history, and the prevalence of mental disorders Methods: Unemployment office clients (n = 166) with an SUD were assessed using a standardized sociodemographic and clinical interview. They were compared with 83 inpatients from a local detoxification ward, matched for age, sex, and primary addictive disorder (matching ratio 2:1). Results: Most (75.9%) subjects were males, with an average age of 36.7 years. The SUDs mostly related to alcohol (63.9%) and cannabis (27.7%). Although most unemployment office clients had a long SUD history, only half of them had ever been in addiction-specific treatment during their lifetime, and only one in four during the last year. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups regarding age at onset of problematic substance use, the proportion of migrants, and prevalence of comorbid mental disorders. The unemployment office sample showed lower levels of education (p < 0.001), job experience (p = 0.009), and current employment rates (p < 0.001). Conversely, inpatients showed lower rates of imprisonment (p < 0.001), more inpatient detoxification episodes (p < 0.03); and longer abstinence periods (p < 0.005). Conclusions: There was a lifetime and recent treatment gap in the group of long-term unemployed subjects with alcohol and cannabis dependence. The markedly lower educational attainment, chronic employment problems and higher degree of legal conflicts in the client group, as compared with patients in detoxification treatment, might require specific access and treatment options. The co-operation between the psychiatric unit and the unemployment office facilitated access to that group.