bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Monoallelic Variant in REST Is Associated with Non-Syndromic Autosomal Dominant Hearing Impairment in a South African Family
Authors: Manyisa Noluthando , Schrauwen Isabelle , de Souza Rios Leonardo Alves , Mowla Shaheen , Tekendo-Ngongang Cedrik , Popel Kalinka , Esoh Kevin , Bharadwaj Thashi , Nouel-Saied Liz M. , Acharya Anushree , Nasir Abdul , Wonkam-Tingang Edmond , Kock Carmen de , Dandara Collet , Leal Suzanne M. , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: November 2021

Hearing impairment (HI) is a sensory disorder with a prevalence of 0.0055 live births in South Africa. DNA samples from a South African family presenting with progressive, autosomal dominant non-syndromic HI were subjected to whole-exome sequencing, and a novel monoallelic variant in REST [c.1244GC; p.(C415S)], was identified as the putative causative variant. The co-segregation of the variant was confirmed with Sanger Sequencing. The variant is absent from databases, 103 healthy South African controls, and 52 South African probands with isolated HI. In silico analysis indicates that the p.C415S variant in REST substitutes a conserved cysteine and results in changes to the surrounding secondary structure and the disulphide bonds, culminating in alteration of the tertiary structure of REST. Localization studies using ectopically expressed GFP-tagged Wild type (WT) and mutant REST in HEK-293 cells show that WT REST localizes exclusively to the nucleus; however, the mutant protein localizes throughout the cell. Additionally, mutant REST has an impaired ability to repress its known target AF1q. The data demonstrates that the identified mutation compromises the function of REST and support its implication in HI. This study is the second report, worldwide, to implicate REST in HI and suggests that it should be included in diagnostic HI panels.
Individual and Interactive Temporal Implications of UV-B Radiation and Elevated CO2 on the Morphology of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)
Authors: Barickman T. Casey , Brazel Skyler , Sehgal Akanksha , Walne C. Hunt , Gao Wei , Reddy K. Raja
Published: November 2021

Temporal and spatial variations in ozone levels and temporal changes in solar radiation greatly influence ultraviolet radiation incidence to crops throughout their growth, yet the interactive effects of CO2 and UV-B radiation on Basil production under sunlight environmental conditions has not been studied. Basil ‘Genovese’ plants grown under sunlit plant growth chambers were subjected to a combination of supplemental UV-B (0 and 10 kJ m−2d−1) and ambient (420 ppm) and elevated (720 ppm) CO2 treatments for 38 days after 14 days of germination. UV-B radiation treatments caused a decrease in basil stem branching, fresh mass, and stem dry mass under both CO2 treatments when harvested after 17 and 38 days of treatment. There was also an increase in basil leaf surface wax under UV-B (10 kJ m−2d−1) treatment compared to controls (0 kJ m−2d−1). Elevated CO2 treatments caused a decrease in morphological features, including specific leaf area and fresh mass. Interactive effects between UV-B and CO2 treatments existed for some morphological features, including plant height, root surface area, and average root diameter. Understanding the impacts that CO2 and UV-B radiation treatments have on basilcan improve existing varieties for increased tolerance while simultaneously improving yield, plant morphology, and physiology.
Willingness to Oppose Smoking among Pregnant Women
Authors: Olejniczak Dominik , Klimiuk Krzysztof , Religioni Urszula , Staniszewska Anna , Panczyk Mariusz , Nowacka Agnieszka , Mularczyk-Tomczewska Paulina , Krzych-Fałta Edyta , Korcala-Wichary Anna , Balwicki Łukasz
Published: November 2021

Even though smoking causes numerous threats to the developing foetus, it is the most common addiction in Polish women of reproductive age. Most studies undertake to examine the subject of opposing second-hand smoking or creating tools to reprimand pregnant women more effectively using a qualitative methodology. The study aimed to determine the profile of a pregnant woman who is willing to oppose the smoking of another pregnant woman. The research was conducted using an original multiple-choice questionnaire. The survey was shared on websites for expecting parents. Completed questionnaires were collected from 11,448 pregnant women. The Wald test for logistic regression was used for statistical analysis. Predictors of whether someone would draw another pregnant women’s attention to the fact that smoking is harmful were: intellectual work (OR 1.136; p-value 0.020) and currently being a student (OR 1.363; p-value 0.004), involvement of the child’s father (OR 1.377; p-value < 0.001), contact with social campaigns (OR 1.150; p-value 0.005) and knowledge about the consequences of smoking, as well as talking to the midwife about the harmfulness of cigarettes during pregnancy (OR 1.655; p-value < 0.001). Interpersonal relationships leave scope for public health interventions. It is worth enhancing criticism against smoking by specialists through information and education campaigns.
The Role of Discrete Emotions in Risk Perception and Policy Support during Public Health Crises: The Moderation Effect of SNS Dependency
Authors: Kim Soohee
Published: November 2021

People often experience strong emotions during public health crises. This study examines how these emotions shape the perception of risk and support for policies to address the risk. In particular, this study explores the moderating effects of social network services (SNS) use in the process, considering that SNS have become a prominent communication platform during crises. Using a nationwide online survey conducted on the issue of fine dust air pollution in South Korea, this study found that feelings of anxiety, anger, and sadness about the risk issue were positively related to risk perception and policy support, while the relative effects of these emotions varied. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that reliance on SNS for learning (i.e., SNS learning dependency) moderated the influence of anxiety: the positive impact of anxiety was greater among those who used SNS for learning, while no such effects were found among those who used SNS for play or entertainment (i.e., SNS entertainment dependency). The implications of this study are discussed in terms of the distinct role emotions play in public responses to risks and the importance of considering the impact of SNS on public perceptions and judgments in this era of social media.
Urbanization Affects Soil Microbiome Profile Distribution in the Russian Arctic Region
Authors: Korneykova Maria V. , Vasenev Viacheslav I. , Nikitin Dmitry A. , Soshina Anastasia S. , Dolgikh Andrey V. , Sotnikova Yulia L.
Published: November 2021

Urbanization in the Arctic results in considerable and still poorly known environmental consequences. The effect of urbanization on soil microbiome—an ecosystem component highly sensitive to anthropogenic disturbance—remains overlooked for the Arctic region. The research compared chemical and microbial properties of the natural Podzol soils and urban soils of Murmansk—the largest Arctic city. Particular attention was given to the profile distribution, which is almost completely ignored by most microbial studies. Soil microbiome was investigated by the quantitative indicators based on fluorescence microscopy (microbial biomass) and PCR real-time methods (amount of rRNA genes copies of archaea, bacteria, and fungi). The principal changes in urban soils’ properties compared to the natural references included a shift in pH and an increase in C and nutrients’ contents, especially remarkable for the subsoil. The numbers of rRNA genes copies of archaea, bacteria, and fungi in urban topsoils (106–1010, 109–1010, and 107–109, respectively) were lower than in Podzol; however, the opposite pattern was shown for the subsoil. Similarly, the total microbial biomass in urban topsoils (0.55–0.75 mg g−1) was lower compared to the 1.02 mg g−1 in Podzols, while urban subsoil microbial biomass was 2–2.5 times higher than in the natural conditions. Both for urban and natural soils and throughout the profiles, fungi were dominated by mycelium forms; however, the ratios of mycelium–spores were lower, and the amount of thin mycelium was higher in urban soils than in natural Podzols. Urbanization in the Arctic altered soil morphological and chemical properties and created a new niche for microbial development in urban subsoils; its contribution to biodiversity and nutrient cycling promises to become increasingly important under projected climate change.
Development and Testing of a Community-Based Intervention to Address Intimate Partner Violence among Rohingya and Syrian Refugees: A Social Norms-Based Mental Health-Integrated Approach
Authors: James Leah Emily , Welton-Mitchell Courtney , Michael Saja , Santoadi Fajar , Shakirah Sharifah , Hussin Hasnah , Anwar Mohammed , Kilzar Lama , James Alexander
Published: November 2021

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is the leading form of gender-based violence globally and increases during times of conflict and displacement. To reduce IPV and encourage help-seeking, a two-phase community-based intervention was co-designed with Rohingya in Malaysia and Syrians in Lebanon. Three day workshops, utilizing a social norms-based mental health-integrated approach, were implemented for women and men in each country (n = 148). Pre- to post-measures indicated reductions in beliefs about acceptability of violence and rigid gender norms, and improvements in mental health, functioning, coping, and self-efficacy for women and men following workshop participation. Workshop participation was also associated with increased help-seeking intent, for both mental health and IPV (victims and perpetrators). Workshops included community design of poster campaigns to address IPV, which were then tested in each setting using a randomized controlled trial in Malaysia (n = 240) and a matched cluster comparison in Lebanon (n = 260). Women in both settings found IPV less acceptable in the poster condition. Help-seeking preferences were also influenced by the poster for women and men in both countries. This participatory intervention research can provide a roadmap for use in other settings, emphasizing the value of community-generated solutions to IPV among displaced populations.
Muscle Contractile Properties Measured at Submaximal Electrical Amplitudes and Not at Supramaximal Amplitudes Are Associated with Repeated Sprint Performance and Fatigue Markers
Authors: Muñoz-López Alejandro , de Hoyo Moisés , Sañudo Borja
Published: November 2021

Background: The present study analyzes the associations between the muscle contractile properties (MCP) measured at different neuromuscular electrical stimulation amplitudes (NMESa) and the performance or transient fatigue after a bout of repeated sprints. Methods: Seventeen physically active male subjects performed six repeated sprints of 30 m with 30 s of passive recovery. Capillary blood creatine kinase (CK) concentration, knee extension or flexion isometric peak torque, tensiomyography, and repeated sprint performance were assessed. Results: Muscle displacement and contraction time were different in relation to the NMESa used in the rectus femoris and biceps femoris muscles. At rest, significant (p < 0.05) associations were found between muscle displacement and the loss of time in the repeated sprints (sprint performance) at 20 or 40 mA in the rectus femoris. At post +24 h or +48 h, the highest significant associations were found between the muscle displacement or the contraction time and CK or peak torques also at submaximal amplitudes (20 mA). The NMESa which elicits the peak muscle displacement showed lack of practical significance. Conclusion: Although MCP are typically assessed in tensiomyography using the NMESa that elicit peak muscle displacement, a submaximal NMESa may have a higher potential practical application to assess neuromuscular fatigue in response to repeated sprints.
The Muscularity-Oriented Eating Test, Drive for Muscularity Scale, and Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory among Chinese Men: Confirmatory Factor Analyses
Authors: He Jinbo , Murray Stuart , Compte Emilio J. , Song Jianwen , Nagata Jason M.
Published: November 2021

Research on eating disorders (EDs) and body image disturbances has focused mostly on females from Western countries, and little is known about EDs in male populations in China, which is partially due to the lack of validated assessment measures. The current work aims to translate the Muscularity-Oriented Eating Test (MOET), Drive for Muscularity Scale (DMS) and Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory (MDDI) into Chinese and examine their psychometric properties. The factor structures, reliability and validity of the translated scales were examined with two samples: male university students (n = 295, Mage = 18.92 years) and general adult men (n = 406, Mage = 28.53 years). With confirmatory factor analyses, the original factor structures are replicated for the MOET, DMS and MDDI. The results also support the adequate internal consistency for both samples. Strong evidence of convergent and incremental validity for the three measures is also found in both samples. Overall, the three measures prove to be good instruments for use among Chinese male university students and general adult men.
Distance from Healthcare Facilities Is Associated with Increased Morbidity of Acute Infection in Pediatric Patients in Matiari, Pakistan
Authors: Corden Elise , Siddiqui Saman Hasan , Sharma Yash , Raghib Muhammad Faraz , Adorno William , Zulqarnain Fatima , Ehsan Lubaina , Shrivastava Aman , Ahmed Sheraz , Umrani Fayaz , Rahman Najeeb , Ali Rafey , Iqbal Najeeha T. , Moore Sean R. , Ali Syed Asad , Syed Sana
Published: November 2021

The relationship between environmental factors and child health is not well understood in rural Pakistan. This study characterized the environmental factors related to the morbidity of acute respiratory infections (ARIs), diarrhea, and growth using geographical information systems (GIS) technology. Anthropometric, address and disease prevalence data were collected through the SEEM (Study of Environmental Enteropathy and Malnutrition) study in Matiari, Pakistan. Publicly available map data were used to compile coordinates of healthcare facilities. A Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was used to calculate the correlation between distance from healthcare facilities and participant growth and morbidity. Other continuous variables influencing these outcomes were analyzed using a random forest regression model. In this study of 416 children, we found that participants living closer to secondary hospitals had a lower prevalence of ARI (r = 0.154, p < 0.010) and diarrhea (r = 0.228, p < 0.001) as well as participants living closer to Maternal Health Centers (MHCs): ARI (r = 0.185, p < 0.002) and diarrhea (r = 0.223, p < 0.001) compared to those living near primary facilities. Our random forest model showed that distance has high variable importance in the context of disease prevalence. Our results indicated that participants closer to more basic healthcare facilities reported a higher prevalence of both diarrhea and ARI than those near more urban facilities, highlighting potential public policy gaps in ameliorating rural health.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Malay Version of Sports Motivation Scale-II
Authors: Chin Ngien-Siong , Liew Guo Chen , Kueh Yee Cheng , Hashim Hairul Anuar , Tee Vincent , Kuan Garry
Published: November 2021

The 18-item Sport Motivation Scale (SMS-II) is one of the most-utilised scales measuring athletes’ motivation and its psychometric properties. However, we found no Malay version used to examine the Malaysian multi-ethnic population. Thus, the study aimed to translate and validate the SMS-II into the Malay version using confirmatory factor analysis. A total of 436 (16.44 ± 1.22) state athletes were asked to complete the SMS-II Malay version, which utilised the forward–backwards translation method. The results showed an acceptable fit with the data (CFI = 0.906, SRMR = 0.064; RMSEA = 0.056) and internal consistency, with a Cronbach’s alpha value that exceeded 0.50, which supported its usage for the assessment of motivation among the multi-ethnic Malaysian athletes. The Cronbach’s alpha values of all the factors were satisfactory, except for introjected regulation. Thus, further studies are needed to improve the reliability of such factors. Nonetheless, the Malay version of SMS-II was found to be valid and reliable for assessing the level of motivation of the multi-ethnic Malaysian athletes.
Occupational Stressors and Safety Behaviour among Oil and Gas Workers in Kuwait: The Mediating Role of Mental Health and Fatigue
Authors: Alroomi Anwar S. , Mohamed Sherif
Published: November 2021

This paper provides an examination of direct and mediated relationships among occupational stressors (responsibilities towards family and living environment), mental health (anxiety and depression), fatigue (physical and mental fatigue), and safety behaviour (safety compliance and safety participation). In this cross-sectional study, data were collected by means of a questionnaire among oil and gas workers (foreign employees working at a remote oil and gas field site located in Kuwait), during a two-month period (November–December 2018). Regression analyses (bivariate and hierarchical), carried out on 387 responses, were employed to test the links between occupational stressors, mental health, fatigue, and safety behaviour in the hypothesised model. The results provide support for the direct relationship in the model, in that both responsibilities towards family and living environment predicted safety behaviour participation. Further, the results provide partial support for the mediated relationships in the model, as mental health and fatigue were found to mediate the relationship of responsibilities towards family and living environment with safety participation behaviour. It is concluded that occupational stressors have a negative effect on safety behaviour, while mental health and fatigue can operate as risk factors. Given this, it is recommended that organisations need to enhance remote oil and gas workers’ safety behaviour by encouraging them to effectively balance their stress, mental health, and level of fatigue. This can be achieved by actions such as promoting spirituality, boosting workers’ resilience, providing recreational facilities and encouraging communications.
Preliminary Assessment of COVID-19 Implications for the Water and Sanitation Sector in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: de França Doria Miguel , Segurado Patricia , Korc Marcelo , Heller Leo , Jimenez Cisneros Blanca , Hunter Paul R. , Forde Martin
Published: November 2021

COVID-19 has had a severe impact on human health, as well as in social and economic terms, with implications for the management and governance of the water and sanitation sector. These implications are evident in Latin America and the Caribbean due to existing challenges the region faces in accessing water and sanitation services. In spite of significant advances, around 65 million people in the LAC region currently lack appropriate access to water and soap to wash their hands—one of the most basic measures to prevent the spread of disease. Furthermore, social and economic vulnerabilities have exacerbated the effects of the pandemic in the region, particularly among those living in poverty. The COVID-19 pandemic thus requires the mobilization of frameworks such as the human rights to water and sanitation, specifically considering the region’s realities. This paper provides a review of some of the challenges currently faced in the region and advances a series of recommendations for enhancing access to water, sanitation and hygiene. The importance of effective governance, management and communication strategies in the water provisioning sector is highlighted in the context of the pandemic, and the role of science and research for adequate decision making is emphasized.
Role of Socio-Demographic and Environmental Determinants on Performance of Community Health Workers in Western Kenya
Authors: Njororai Fletcher , Ganu Daniel , Nyaranga Kogutu Caleb , Wilberforce Cholo
Published: November 2021

Background: The performance of community health workers remains an area of significant global focus. The role of community health workers in sub-Saharan Africa has evolved over time in response to changing health priorities, disease burdens, and workforce demands. Recently, Kenya revised its community health strategy in response to challenges faced with the implementation of grassroots primary health care initiative. Implementation of community health programs is often inconsistent, and they vary widely in many attributes. The purpose of this study was to explore factors influencing performance of community health workers in Vihiga County, Western Kenya in light of the political devolution. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional study design that involved a quantitative method of data collection. A sample of 309 participants was selected through cluster and simple random sampling. A self-administered and -structured questionnaire was used to gather data, s, and those who were not able to respond individually were guided by the research assistants. Results: The community health workers were 75.2% females and 24.8% males. Performance was significantly associated with not being employed, (OR = 2.4; 95% CI, 1.4–4.4), secondary education (OR = 0.7; 95% CI, 0.5–1.1), lack of conflict resolution mechanism (OR = 2.2; p = 0.017), lack of support (OR = 1.5; p = 0.03), and community health work not seen as important (OR = 1.5; p = 0.041). Poor communication skills were also more likely to influence performance of community health workers (OR = 0.5; p = 0.050) and poor road network (OR = 0.361; p = 0.000). Conclusions: These findings offer a deeper understanding of the interaction between CHWs contextual situations, structural challenges, and performance. Addressing influential factors of CHWs performance in multi-task settings is important in preventing overtaxing their work capacity and to maintain quality performance as countries move towards universal health coverage. Strategies for incentivizing, attracting, and sustaining men in CHWs is important to broaden perspectives about this critical role in society.
Do Gender, Age, Body Mass and Height Influence Eye Biometrical Properties in Young Adults? A Pilot Study
Authors: Kolačko Štefanija , Predović Jurica , Kokot Antonio , Bosnar Damir , Brzović-Šarić Vlatka , Šarić Borna , Balog Slaven , Milanovic Kristina , Ivastinovic Domagoj
Published: November 2021

Background: Do gender, age, body mass and height influence eye biometrical properties in young adults? Methods: A total of 155 eyes (92 female, 63 male) of healthy subjects between the ages of 18 and 39 years were included in the study. The subjects’ gender and age were recorded, and their body mass, height and biometrical properties of the eyes were measured. Results: The male subjects had significantly thicker and flatter corneas and lower minimal rim-to-disk ratios than the female subjects did. In both genders, age showed strong, negative correlations with anterior chamber depth and pupil diameter and a positive correlation with lens thickness. We also found significant, negative correlations between body height and mass with keratometry measurements, negative correlations between body height and optic disk rim area and rim volume, and positive correlations between body mass and axial length in both genders. Conclusions: Biometric eye parameters differ among people. In addition to age and gender, which are usually taken into consideration when interpreting ocular biometry findings, we strongly suggest that body height and mass should be also routinely considered when interpreting eye biometry data, as these factors have an impact on ocular biometry.
Predictors of Burnout in Hospital Health Workers during the COVID-19 Outbreak in South Korea
Authors: Jihn Chang-Ho , Kim Bokyoung , Kim Kue Sook
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to identify the factors that influence the components of burnout—emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and personal accomplishment (PA)—among hospital health workers, including doctors and nurses, during the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed 200 healthcare workers’ responses to the Employee Health Promotion Survey conducted at a general hospital in Seoul with over 200 hospital beds. The questionnaire included items about COVID-19-related burnout and its influencing factors. We performed three different multiple regression analyses using EE, DP, and PA as the dependent variables. The results show that sex, marital status, workload of treating suspected COVID-19 patients, fear of COVID-19 infection, anxiety, and depression predicted EE. The predictors of DP were job category, consecutive months of work in the current department, satisfaction with work environment, anxiety, and depression. The predictors of PA were the workload of directly interacting with patients, socioeconomic status, and job stress. For EE and DP, burnout was found to be worse in doctors and nurses than in other health workers; moreover, burnout was worse among nurses than among doctors across all three aspects of burnout. The findings can be used to establish tailored policies to address each burnout component.
Changes in Caregiver Personal Support Networks: Gender Differences and Effects on Health (CUIDAR-SE Study)
Authors: Rodríguez-Madrid María Nieves , del Río-Lozano María , Fernández-Peña Rosario , García-Calvente María del Mar
Published: November 2021

Technological changes have led to important advances in medical diagnoses and treatments that prolong the informal care process. Support from the personal network of informal caregivers is an undervalued resource and the changes that have occurred over time are unknown. The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in personal network support among informal caregivers and to examine the effect of these changes on self-perceived caregiver health, with a focus on differences between men and women and caregivers with high and low levels of burden We also investigated caregiver perceptions and explanations of changes to their support network (losses and additions and no change). Using a mixed-methods approach, data were obtained from 32 caregivers that were intentionally selected in Spain, who were interviewed twice with a one-year interval. In the quantitative phase, personal networks analysis was performed with Egonet software, which obtained data on the composition and functional content in social support from 1600 personal relationships (25 alters for each ego in the two waves). In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews were conducted in the two waves with a guide in order to explore the changes in informal support resources over time. The selected men with high levels of burden pointed out a loss of network support with more discouraging reports compared with the low-burden male caregivers. Furthermore, the selected women with low burden levels mentioned losses too; however, their reports were more positive. Women reported improved health, especially those with low burden scores in the first wave and those who did not lose support. Caregivers with a high initial burden and who lost support reported worse health, particularly men and women with a strong sense of duty toward care. Social support from personal networks is important for caregiver health and its effects are influenced by gender roles. Our findings could help by improving the relational and social capital of informal caregivers and adapting them to the new needs of formal home care systems.
Motivation for COVID-19 Vaccination in Priority Occupational Groups: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Štěpánek Ladislav , Janošíková Magdaléna , Nakládalová Marie , Ivanová Kateřina , Macík Jakub , Boriková Alena , Vildová Helena
Published: November 2021

Due to the limited availability of COVID-19 vaccines, occupational groups with priority access were identified prior to vaccination. The study aimed to analyze motives for vaccination in these occupational groups. Methods: Members of occupational groups, who were vaccinated at the vaccination center of University Hospital Olomouc before 30 April 2021, were asked to fill in an online questionnaire. Results: A total of 3224 completed questionnaires were obtained from 1332 healthcare workers, 1257 school employees, 363 social service workers, 210 security force members, and 62 critical infrastructure workers. The most frequent motive for vaccination was the effort to protect family members (76.2%), the effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in one’s profession (72.3%), followed by concerns about COVID-19 itself (49.1%) and exemptions from anti-epidemic measures (36.8%). Only for social services, the motive focused on one’s profession was mentioned more often (75.2%) than the motive focused on the family (71.1%). At the level of detailed profession-oriented motives, a collegial effort of security force members to protect co-workers and not to endanger the workplace was dominant. Conclusions: The effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the professional environment is a strong motive for vaccination, and strongest among social service workers.
Effects of COVID-19 Social Distancing Measures in Individuals with Chronic Pain Living in Spain in the Late Stages of the Lockdown
Authors: Miró Jordi , Sánchez-Rodríguez Elisabet , Ferreira-Valente Alexandra , Pais-Ribeiro José , Ciaramella Antonella
Published: November 2021

Social distancing measures during the lockdown have had a negative impact on chronic pain patients’ function. Research, however, has only focused on the early stages of the first lockdowns. The aim of this study was to improve the understanding of the effects of COVID-19 social distancing measures on individuals with chronic pain living in Spain during the late stages of the lockdown. A group of 361 adults with pain participated in this study. They responded to an online survey and provided information on sociodemographic issues, pain, fatigue, perceived health, and quality of life. The data showed that most participants suffered moderate to severe pain and interferences with pain treatment and an increase in pain intensity during the lockdown. Most participants also informed us that fatigue had worsened during the lockdown (62%). Importantly, females with lower monthly family income and lower education have been found to be associated with greater levels of pain and fatigue. Despite this, participants perceived themselves as having good health and good quality of life. The findings from this study can be used to inform policy and specific responses for future COVID-19 waves and future pandemics where social distancing measures must be implemented.
Fitness Fights Fires: Exploring the Relationship between Physical Fitness and Firefighter Ability
Authors: Chizewski Annmarie , Box Allyson , Kesler Richard , Petruzzello Steven J.
Published: November 2021

Background: Regular exercise in firefighters may be effective in preventing or attenuating ill health (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, and obesity), as well as improving their firefighting ability. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between physical fitness and firefighting ability. Methods: Male firefighter recruits’ (n = 89; age = 27.1 ± 4.2 yrs) physical fitness and firefighting ability were assessed at Week 1 and Week 7 during a basic firefighting training academy. Physical fitness was assessed via 1.5 mile run time, sit-up and push-up repetitions, the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) bench press test, vertical jump height, and sit-and-reach flexibility, while firefighting ability was assessed via completion time on a firefighting skills test. Results: Fitness predicted significant variance in firefighting ability at Week 1 (R2= 0.46; p < 0.01) and Week 7 (R2 = 0.46; p < 0.01), after accounting for age and body mass index. Cardiovascular endurance accounted for 22.4% (FΔ (1, 85) = 25.75) and 39.3% (FΔ (1, 85) = 55.53) while muscular endurance accounted for an additional 19.0% (FΔ (3, 82) = 10.34) and 6.3% (FΔ (3, 82) = 3.2) unique variance in firefighting ability at Week 1 and Week 7, respectively. Conclusions: Given the strong association between fitness and firefighting performance, municipal departments may want to focus on increasing fitness levels among firefighters.
Correction: Lee, B.U. Minimum Sizes of Respiratory Particles Carrying SARS-CoV-2 and the Possibility of Aerosol Generation. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17, 6960
Authors: Lee Byung Uk
Published: November 2021

The author would like to update a few calculation results in the Abstract and Section 4 “Calculation of Sizes of Respiratory Particles Containing SARS-CoV-2” in the previous publication [...]
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Composition of Dietary Supplements and Functional Foods Notified in Poland
Authors: Wróbel Kacper , Milewska Anna Justyna , Marczak Michał , Kozłowski Remigiusz
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has exerted a strong impact on numerous areas of everyday life. The aim of this study was to check how the pandemic influenced the composition of dietary supplements and other functional food products placed on the market till March 2021, compared to 2019. For this purpose, data concerning the registered products and reports of popularity of online searches of terms connected with vitamins and minerals were used. The results of the study made it possible to determine the group of ingredients especially popular during the pandemic. Their use in products after the announcement of the pandemic was significantly higher than in the preceding period. In conclusion, it can be shown that the pandemic changed the ingredients used in functional foods—mainly as far as vitamins and minerals are concerned. The highest proportional increase in its use in dietary supplements was noted for potassium. Personalized therapy has also become more popular, promoted by one of the manufacturers of dietary supplements active during the pandemic. Moreover, different phases of the pandemic were characterized by the popularity of different ingredients among the consumers—first, these were immunity-boosting ingredients, then those that improved psychological functions, and finally mixtures with universal health effects.
High Unawareness of Chronic Kidney Disease in Germany
Authors: Stolpe Susanne , Kowall Bernd , Scholz Christian , Stang Andreas , Blume Cornelia
Published: November 2021

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular events, hospitalizations, end stage renal disease and mortality. Main risk factors for CKD are diabetes, hypertension, and older age. Although CKD prevalence is about 10%, awareness for CKD is generally low in patients and physicians, hindering early diagnosis and treatment. We analyzed baseline data of 3305 participants with CKD Stages 1–4 from German cohorts and registries collected in 2010. Prevalence of CKD unawareness and prevalence ratios (PR) (each with 95%-confidence intervals) were estimated in categories of age, sex, CKD stages, BMI, hypertension, diabetes and other relevant comorbidities. We used a log-binomial regression model to estimate the PR for CKD unawareness for females compared to males adjusting for CKD stage and CKD risk factors. CKD unawareness was high, reaching 71% (68–73%) in CKD 3a, 49% (45–54%) in CKD 3b and still 30% (24–36%) in CKD4. Prevalence of hypertension, diabetes or cardiovascular comorbidities was not associated with lower CKD unawareness. Independent of CKD stage and other risk factors unawareness was higher in female patients (PR = 1.06 (1.01; 1.10)). Even in patients with CKD related comorbidities, CKD unawareness was high. Female sex was strongly associated with CKD unawareness. Guideline oriented treatment of patients at higher risk for CKD could increase CKD awareness. Patient–physician communication about CKD might be amendable.
Residents’ Spatial Preference for Urban Forest Park Route during Physical Activities
Authors: Cai Mengmeng , Cui Chuyun , Lin Lin , Di Shuyi , Zhao Zheng , Wang Yanbin
Published: November 2021

Urban parks positively affect the life quality and health of urban residents as well as the environment where they live. When it comes to the design of a future urban forest park, it is necessary to consider the protection of ecological environment, landscape sustainability and practicability. This study explored residents’ spatial preference for urban forest parks based on preference survey data. According to the rating scores obtained for four urban forest park routes during physical activities, this study used cognitive maps and multinomial logit models to figure out the potential influencing factors affecting residents’ spatial preference while they engage in physical activities. The results suggest that forest routes are still the primary choice for urban residents. Although familiarity with the spatial image preference for urban forest parks varied from person to person, residents’ choice of route shows certain commonalities, which was reflected in the sequential cognitive maps obtained from them. In addition, residents’ route preference is influenced by their exercise habits, environmental preference and residential location. There is also a certain correlation between residents’ preference and their characteristics. This study provides additional information for planners, developers, engineers, architects and foresters in building a more suitable environment that is aesthetically appealing and ecologically sound for physical exercising.
Looking for Razors and Needles in a Haystack: Multifaceted Analysis of Suicidal Declarations on Social Media—A Pragmalinguistic Approach
Authors: Ptaszynski Michal , Zasko-Zielinska Monika , Marcinczuk Michal , Leliwa Gniewosz , Fortuna Marcin , Soliwoda Kamil , Dziublewska Ida , Hubert Olimpia , Skrzek Pawel , Piesiewicz Jan , Karbowska Paula , Dowgiallo Maria , Eronen Juuso , Tempska Patrycja , Brochocki Maciej , Godny Marek , Wroczynski Michal
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we study language used by suicidal users on Reddit social media platform. To do that, we firstly collect a large-scale dataset of Reddit posts and annotate it with highly trained and expert annotators under a rigorous annotation scheme. Next, we perform a multifaceted analysis of the dataset, including: (1) the analysis of user activity before and after posting a suicidal message, and (2) a pragmalinguistic study on the vocabulary used by suicidal users. In the second part of the analysis, we apply LIWC, a dictionary-based toolset widely used in psychology and linguistic research, which provides a wide range of linguistic category annotations on text. However, since raw LIWC scores are not sufficiently reliable, or informative, we propose a procedure to decrease the possibility of unreliable and misleading LIWC scores leading to misleading conclusions by analyzing not each category separately, but in pairs with other categories. The analysis of the results supported the validity of the proposed approach by revealing a number of valuable information on the vocabulary used by suicidal users and helped to pin-point false predictors. For example, we were able to specify that death-related words, typically associated with suicidal posts in the majority of the literature, become false predictors, when they co-occur with apostrophes, even in high-risk subreddits. On the other hand, the category-pair based disambiguation helped to specify that death becomes a predictor only when co-occurring with future-focused language, informal language, discrepancy, or 1st person pronouns. The promising applicability of the approach was additionally analyzed for its limitations, where we found out that although LIWC is a useful and easily applicable tool, the lack of any contextual processing makes it unsuitable for application in psychological and linguistic studies. We conclude that disadvantages of LIWC can be easily overcome by creating a number of high-performance AI-based classifiers trained for annotation of similar categories as LIWC, which we plan to pursue in future work.
Functional Identification of Complement Factor D and Analysis of Its Expression during GCRV Infection in Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)
Authors: Ding Chunhua , Xiao Tiaoyi , Qin Beibei , Xu Baohong , Lv Zhao , Wang Hongquan
Published: November 2021

Complement factor D (Df) is a serine protease well known for activating the alternative pathway (AP) in mammals by promoting the cleavage of complement component 3 (C3), thus becoming involved in innate defense. In teleost fish, however, the functional mechanisms of Df in the AP and against pathogen infection are far from clear. In the present study, we cloned and characterized the Df gene, CiDf, from grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) and analyzed its function in promoting C3 cleavage and expression changes after grass carp reovirus (GCRV) infection. The open reading frame of CiDf was found to be 753 bp, encoding 250 amino acids with a molecular mass of 27.06 kDa. CiDf harbors a conserved Tryp_SPc domain, with three conserved residues representing the catalytic triad and three conserved binding sites in the substrate specificity pocket. Pairwise alignment showed that CiDf shares the highest identity (96%) and similarity (98%) with Df from Anabarilius grahami. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that CiDf and other fish Dfs formed a distinct evolutionary branch. Similar to most Dfs from other vertebrates, the CiDf gene structure is characterized by four introns and five exons. The incubation of recombinant CiDf protein with grass carp serum significantly increased the C3b content, demonstrating the conserved function of CiDf in the AP in promoting C3 cleavage, similar to Dfs in mammals. CiDf mRNA expression was widely detected in various tissues and levels were relatively higher in the liver, spleen, and intestine of grass carp. During GCRV infection over a 168-hour period, a high level of CiDf mRNA expression in the liver, spleen, and intestine was maintained at 144 and 168 h, suggesting AP activity at the late stage of GCRV infection. Collectively, the above results reveal the conserved structure and function of CiDf and its distinct expression patterns after GCRV infection, which provide a key basis for studying the roles of Df and AP during GCRV infection in the grass carp C. idella.
Characterization of Novel Pathogenic Variants Causing Pyridox(am)ine 5′-Phosphate Oxidase-Dependent Epilepsy
Authors: Barile Anna , Mills Philippa , di Salvo Martino L. , Graziani Claudio , Bunik Victoria , Clayton Peter , Contestabile Roberto , Tramonti Angela
Published: November 2021

Several variants of the enzyme pyridox(am)ine 5′-phosphate oxidase (PNPO), responsible for a rare form of vitamin B6-dependent neonatal epileptic encephalopathy known as PNPO deficiency (PNPOD), have been reported. However, only a few of them have been characterised with respect to their structural and functional properties, despite the fact that the knowledge of how variants affect the enzyme may clarify the disease mechanism and improve treatment. Here, we report the characterisation of the catalytic, allosteric and structural properties of recombinantly expressed D33V, R161C, P213S, and E50K variants, among which D33V (present in approximately 10% of affected patients) is one of the more common variants responsible for PNPOD. The D33V and E50K variants have only mildly altered catalytic properties. In particular, the E50K variant, given that it has been found on the same chromosome with other known pathogenic variants, may be considered non-pathogenic. The P213S variant has lower thermal stability and reduced capability to bind the FMN cofactor. The variant involving Arg161 (R161C) largely decreases the affinity for the pyridoxine 5′-phosphate substrate and completely abolishes the allosteric feedback inhibition exerted by the pyridoxal 5′-phosphate product.
MATE-Type Proteins Are Responsible for Isoflavone Transportation and Accumulation in Soybean Seeds
Authors: Ng Ming-Sin , Ku Yee-Shan , Yung Wai-Shing , Cheng Sau-Shan , Man Chun-Kuen , Yang Liu , Song Shikui , Chung Gyuhwa , Lam Hon-Ming
Published: November 2021

Soybeans are nutritionally important as human food and animal feed. Apart from the macronutrients such as proteins and oils, soybeans are also high in health-beneficial secondary metabolites and are uniquely enriched in isoflavones among food crops. Isoflavone biosynthesis has been relatively well characterized, but the mechanism of their transportation in soybean cells is largely unknown. Using the yeast model, we showed that GmMATE1 and GmMATE2 promoted the accumulation of isoflavones, mainly in the aglycone forms. Using the tobacco BrightYellow-2 (BY-2) cell model, GmMATE1 and GmMATE2 were found to be localized in the vacuolar membrane. Such subcellular localization supports the notion that GmMATE1 and GmMATE2 function by compartmentalizing isoflavones in the vacuole. Expression analyses showed that GmMATE1 was mainly expressed in the developing soybean pod. Soybean mutants defective in GmMATE1 had significantly reduced total seed isoflavone contents, whereas the overexpression of GmMATE1 in transgenic soybean promoted the accumulation of seed isoflavones. Our results showed that GmMATE1, and possibly also GmMATE2, are bona fide isoflavone transporters that promote the accumulation of isoflavones in soybean seeds.
Dental Pulp Stem Cell-Derived Secretome and Its Regenerative Potential
Authors: Bar Julia K. , Lis-Nawara Anna , Grelewski Piotr Grzegorz
Published: November 2021

The therapeutic potential of the dental pulp stem (DSC) cell-derived secretome, consisting of various biomolecules, is undergoing intense research. Despite promising in vitro and in vivo studies, most DSC secretome-based therapies have not been implemented in human medicine because the paracrine effect of the bioactive factors secreted by human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) is not completely understood. In this review, we outline the current data on the hDPSC- and SHED-derived secretome as a potential candidate in the regeneration of bone, cartilage, and nerve tissue. Published reports demonstrate that the dental MSC-derived secretome/conditional medium may be effective in treating neurodegenerative diseases, neural injuries, cartilage defects, and repairing bone by regulating neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and angiogenic processes through secretome paracrine mechanisms. Dental MSC-secretomes, similarly to the bone marrow MSC-secretome activate molecular and cellular mechanisms, which determine the effectiveness of cell-free therapy. Many reports emphasize that dental MSC-derived secretomes have potential application in tissue-regenerating therapy due to their multidirectional paracrine effect observed in the therapy of many different injured tissues.
A Critical Review of the Biochemical Mechanisms and Epigenetic Modifications in HIV- and Antiretroviral-Induced Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Mohan Jivanka , Ghazi Terisha , Chuturgoon Anil A.
Published: November 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a non-communicable disease characterised by a cluster of metabolic irregularities. Alarmingly, the prevalence of MetS in people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and antiretroviral (ARV) usage is increasing rapidly. This study aimed to look at biochemical mechanisms and epigenetic modifications associated with HIV, ARVs, and MetS. More specifically, emphasis was placed on mitochondrial dysfunction, insulin resistance, inflammation, lipodystrophy, and dyslipidaemia. We found that mitochondrial dysfunction was the most common mechanism that induced metabolic complications. Our findings suggest that protease inhibitors (PIs) are more commonly implicated in MetS-related effects than other classes of ARVs. Furthermore, we highlight epigenetic studies linking HIV and ARV usage to MetS and stress the need for more studies, as the current literature remains limited despite the advancement in and popularity of epigenetics.