bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food Safety Awareness and Opinions in China: A Social Network Analysis Approach
Authors: Xia Lei , Chen Bo , Hunt Kyle , Zhuang Jun , Song Cen
Published: September 2022

Over recent years, food safety has garnered widespread attention and concern from society. Concurrently, social media sites and online forums have become popular platforms to disseminate news, share opinions, and connect with one’s social network. In this research, we focus on the intersection of food safety and online social networking by utilizing natural language processing techniques and social network analysis to study public opinions related to food safety. Using real data collected from a popular Chinese question-and-answer platform, we first identify hot topics related to food safety, and then analyze the emotional state of users in each community (i.e., users communicating about the same topic) to understand the public’s sentiment related to different food safety topics. We proceed by forming semantic networks to analyze the characteristics of food safety opinion networks. Our results show that Internet users form modular communities, each with differences in topics of concern and emotional states of community users. Users focus on a wide range of topics, showing that overall, food safety awareness is increasing. This paper provides novel insights that can help interested stakeholders monitor the discussions and opinions related to food safety.
Stress Response Mechanisms of Salmonella Enteritidis to Sodium Hypochlorite at the Proteomic Level
Authors: Li Danhong , He Shoukui , Dong Rui , Cui Yan , Shi Xianming
Published: September 2022

Salmonella Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) can adapt to sublethal sodium hypochlorite conditions, which subsequently triggers stress resistance mechanisms in this pathogen. Hence, the current work aimed to reveal the underlying stress adaptation mechanisms in S. Enteritidis by phenotypic, proteomic, and physiological analyses. It was found that 130 ppm sodium hypochlorite resulted in a moderate inhibitory effect on bacterial growth and an increased accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. In response to this sublethal treatment, a total of 492 proteins in S. Enteritidis showed significant differential abundance (p < 0.05; fold change >2.0 or <0.5), including 225 more abundant proteins and 267 less abundant proteins, as revealed by the tandem-mass-tags-based quantitative proteomics technology. Functional characterization further revealed that proteins related to flagellar assembly, two-component system, and phosphotransferase system were in less abundance, while those associated with ABC transporters were generally in more abundance. Specifically, the repression of flagellar-assembly-related proteins led to diminished swimming motility, which served as a potential energy conservation strategy. Moreover, altered abundance of lipid-metabolism-related proteins resulted in reduced cell membrane fluidity, which provided a survival advantage to S. Enteritidis. Taken together, these results indicate that S. Enteritidis employs multiple adaptation pathways to cope with sodium hypochlorite stress.
Research Progress on the Correlation between the Intestinal Microbiota and Food Allergy
Authors: Yang Hui , Qu Yezhi , Gao Yaran , Sun Shuyuan , Wu Rina , Wu Junrui
Published: September 2022

The increasing incidence of food allergy is becoming a substantial public health concern. Increasing evidence suggests that alterations in the composition of the intestinal microbiota play a part in the development of food allergy. Additionally, the application of probiotics to correct gut microbiota imbalances and regulate food allergy has become a research hotspot. However, the mechanism by which the gut microbiota regulates food allergy and the efficacy of probiotics are still in the preliminary exploration stage, and there are no clear and specific conclusions. The aim of this review is to provide information regarding the immune mechanism underlying food allergy, the correlation between the intestinal microbiota and food allergy, a detailed description of causation, and mechanisms by which the intestinal microbiota regulates food allergy. Subsequently, we highlight how probiotics modulate the gut microbiome–immune axis to alleviate food allergy. This study will contribute to the dovetailing of bacterial therapeutics with immune system in allergic individuals to prevent food allergy and ameliorate food allergy symptoms.
Fractional View Analysis of Swift–Hohenberg Equations by an Analytical Method and Some Physical Applications
Authors: Almutlak Salemah A. , Shah Rasool , Weera Wajaree , El-Tantawy Samir A. , El-Sherif Lamiaa S.
Published: September 2022

This study investigates the fractional-order Swift–Hohenberg equations using the natural decomposition method with non-singular kernel derivatives. The fractional derivative in the sense of Caputo–Fabrizio is considered. The Adomian decomposition technique (ADT) is a great deal to the overall natural transformation to create closed-form results of the given models. This technique provides a closed-form result for the suggested models. In addition, this technique is attractive, simple, and preferred over other techniques. The graphs of the solution in fractional and integer-order show that the achieved solutions are very close to the actual result of the examples. It is also investigated that the result of fractional-order models converges to the integer-order model’s solution. Furthermore, the proposed method validity is examined using numerical examples. The obtained results for the given problems fully support the theory of the proposed method. The present method is a straightforward and accurate analytical method to analyze other fractional-order partial differential equations, such as many evolution equations that govern the dynamics of nonlinear waves in plasma physics.
Computational Investigation to Design Ofloxacin-Loaded Hybridized Nanocellulose/Lipid Nanogels for Accelerated Skin Repair
Authors: AbouSamra Mona M. , El Hoffy Nada M. , El-Wakil Nahla A. , Awad Ghada E. A. , Kamel Rabab
Published: September 2022

The pharmaceutical application of biomaterials has attained a great success. Rapid wound healing is an important goal for many researchers. Hence, this work deals with the development of nanocellulose crystals/lipid nanogels loaded with ofloxacin (OFX) to promote skin repair while inhibiting bacterial infection. Ofloxacin-loaded hybridized nanocellulose/lipid nanogels (OFX-HNCNs) were prepared and evaluated adopting a computational method based on regression analysis. The optimized nanogels (OFX-HNCN7) showed a spherical outline with an encapsulation efficiency (EE), particle size (PS) and zeta potential (ZP) values of 97.53 ± 1.56%, 200.2 ± 6.74 nm and −26.4 ± 0.50 mV, respectively, with an extended drug release profile. DSC examination of OFX-HNCN7 proved the amorphization of the encapsulated drug into the prepared OFX-HNCNs. Microbiological studies showed the prolonged inhibition of bacterial growth by OFX-HNCN7 compared to the free drug. The cytocompatibility of OFX-HNCN7 was proved by Sulforhodamine B assay. Tissue repair was evaluated using the epidermal scratch assay based on cell migration in human skin fibroblast cell line, and the results depicted that cell treated with OFX-HNCN7 showed a faster and more efficient healing compared to the control. In overall, the obtained findings emphasize the benefits of using the eco-friendly bioactive nanocellulose, hybridized with lipid, to prepare a nanocarrier for skin repair.
Ultrasound-Assisted Encapsulation of Anthraquinones Extracted from Aloe-Vera Plant into Casein Micelles
Authors: Sadiq Uzma , Gill Harsharn , Chandrapala Jayani
Published: September 2022

Aloe-vera extracted anthraquinones (aloin, aloe-emodin, rhein) possess a wide range of biological activities, have poor solubility and are sensitive to processing conditions. This work investigated the ultrasound-assisted encapsulation of these extracted anthraquinones (AQ) into casein micelles (CM). The particle size and zeta potential of casein micelles loaded with aloin (CMA), aloe-emodin (CMAE), rhein (CMR) and anthraquinone powder (CMAQ) ranged between 171–179 nm and −23 to −17 mV. The AQ powder had the maximum encapsulation efficiency (EE%) (aloin 99%, aloe-emodin 98% and rhein 100%) and encapsulation yield, while the whole leaf Aloe vera gel (WLAG) had the least encapsulation efficiency. Spray-dried powder (SDP) and freeze-dried powder (FDP) of Aloe vera showed a significant increase in size and zeta potential related to superficial coating instead of encapsulation. The significant variability in size, zeta potential and EE% were related to anthraquinone type, its binding affinity, and its ratio to CM. FTIR spectra confirmed that the structure of the casein micelle remained unchanged with the binding of anthraquinones except in casein micelles loaded with whole-leaf aloe vera gel (CMWLAG), where the structure was deformed. Based on our findings, Aloe vera extracted anthraquinones powder (AQ) possessed the best encapsulation efficiency within casein micelles without affecting its structure. Overall, this study provides new insights into developing new product formulations through better utilization of exceptional properties of casein micelles.
Clustering of Genetic Anomalies of Cilia Outer Dynein Arm and Central Apparatus in Patients with Transposition of the Great Arteries
Authors: De Ita Marlon , Gaytán-Cervantes Javier , Cisneros Bulmaro , Araujo María Antonieta , Huicochea-Montiel Juan Carlos , Cárdenas-Conejo Alan , Lazo-Cárdenas Charles César , Ramírez-Portillo César Iván , Feria-Kaiser Carina , Peregrino-Bejarano Leoncio , Yáñez-Gutiérrez Lucelli , González-Torres Carolina , Rosas-Vargas Haydeé
Published: September 2022

Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is a congenital heart defect with a complex pathogenesis that has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) in isolated TGA-diagnosed patients and analyzed genes of motile and non-motile cilia ciliogenesis and ciliary trafficking, as well as genes previously associated with this heart malformation. Deleterious missense and splicing variants of genes DNAH9, DNAH11, and ODAD4 of cilia outer dynein arm and central apparatus, HYDIN, were found in our TGA patients. Remarkable, there is a clustering of deleterious genetic variants in cilia genes, suggesting it could be an oligogenic disease. Our data evidence the genetic diversity and etiological complexity of TGA and point out that population allele determination and genetic aggregation studies are required to improve genetic counseling.
A Novel Non-Allelic Homologous Recombination Event in a Parent with an 11;22 Reciprocal Translocation Leading to 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome
Authors: Pastor Steven , Tran Oanh , McGinn Daniel E. , Crowley T. Blaine , Zackai Elaine H. , McDonald-McGinn Donna M. , Emanuel Beverly S.
Published: September 2022

The most prevalent microdeletion in the human population occurs at 22q11.2, a region rich in chromosome-specific low copy repeats (LCR22s). The structure of this region has eluded characterization due to a combination of size, regional complexity, and haplotype diversity. To further complicate matters, it is not well represented in the human reference genome. Most individuals with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) carry a de novo, hemizygous deletion approximately 3 Mbp in size occurring by non-allelic homologous recombination (NAHR) mediated by the LCR22s. The ability to fully delineate an individual’s 22q11.2 regional structure will likely be important for studies designed to assess an unaffected individual’s risk for generating rearrangements in germ cells, potentially leading to offspring with 22q11.2DS. Towards understanding these risk factors, optical mapping has been previously employed to successfully elucidate the structure and variation of LCR22s across 30 families affected by 22q11.2DS. The father in one of these families carries a t(11;22)(q23;q11) translocation. Surprisingly, it was determined that he is the parent-of-deletion-origin. NAHR, which occurred between his der(22) and intact chromosome 22, led to a 22q11.2 deletion in his affected child. The unaffected sibling of the proband with 22q11.2DS inherited the father’s normal chromosome 22, which did not aberrantly recombine. This unexpected observation definitively shows that haplotypes that engage in NAHR can also be inherited intact. This study is the first to identify all structures involving a rearranged chromosome 22 that also participates in NAHR leading to a 22q11.2 deletion.
Patient Interaction Involving Older Adults: Provider vs. Caregiver Expectations
Authors: Shah Pooja , Donovan Kaitlin , Hubal Robert
Published: September 2022

This paper presents a study of the interaction between healthcare providers (HCPs) and older patients and their caregivers. The paper first presents results from a rapid review and narrative synthesis using PubMed and Google Scholar of HCP/patient/caregiver interactions involving older patients; these results then informed the design of a survey administered to HCPs and caregivers using a range of scenarios and their ratings of appropriateness of different responses, to explore where expectations align or differ between HCPs and caregivers. In analyzing ratings, the research found HCPs and caregivers generally approach the older adult encounter with similar expectations, but differences for specific situations are informative. HCPs appear to better recognize when there is a need to show empathy, as when a patient is frustrated or anxious. HCPs, overall, offer more calming responses, especially in embarrassing, upsetting, or worrying situations. For older patients of advanced age, HCPs value engagement with patients more than caregivers, but HCPs are more aligned with caregivers in their ratings of how to engage caregivers. Compared to caregivers, HCPs focus more on simplifying the description of treatment rather than using thorough explanations when a patient expresses hesitancy or avoidance. The results from this work suggest that having a fuller understanding of the different participants’ expectations may improve communication and identify potential pitfalls. A better understanding may also lead to changes in how students in the healthcare fields are trained; having better insight into this relationship will prepare them for interacting with older patients while addressing the needs of caregivers.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Dental Emergency Service from Oradea, Romania: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Moca Abel Emanuel , Țig Ioan Andrei , Ciavoi Gabriela , Iurcov Raluca , Șipoș Lucian Roman , Todor Liana
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the daily lives of the global population, not only in terms of social interaction but also in terms of access to medical and dental care. Non-urgent dental treatments could not be continued during the lockdown and only a small number of dental centres addressed patients with dental emergencies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, and living environment) of the individuals that accessed the dental emergency centre in Oradea (North-West Romania) and the main causes for accessing the dental emergency service among the population of Oradea (North-West Romania), during the COVID-19 lockdown, between March and May 2020 and, furthermore, to compare the results obtained in the lockdown timeframe (March–May 2020), with the results obtained in the corresponding timeframe in the pre-lockdown year (March–May 2019) and post-lockdown year (March–May 2021). The retrospective study was carried out by analysing the medical records of the patients who were treated in the dental emergency service of the Oradea County Emergency Clinical Hospital in the following periods: March–May 2019, March–May 2020, and March–May 2021. Most patients were treated in 2020, during the lockdown (n = 784), predominantly in April (n = 308). Most patients treated in April 2020 were male patients (43.7%, n = 205) and were aged between 30 and 39 years (19.4%, n = 74). The most frequent types of dental emergencies were acute apical periodontitis and acute pulpitis in all the months and years investigated. During the lockdown months of 2020, acute pulpitis was the most frequent type of emergency in March (42.2%, n = 100) and May (45.6%, n = 109), while in April, acute apical periodontitis was the most frequent type of emergency (43.5%, n = 166). The COVID-19 lockdown led to an increase in the number of patients that required emergency treatments and impacted all groups of people investigated.
The Association of Personality Traits and Parameters of Glycemic Regulation in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Patients Using isCGM
Authors: Sladić Rimac Daria , Bilić Ćurčić Ines , Prpić Križevac Ivana , Schonberger Ema , Centner Maja Gradinjan , Barišić Marija , Canecki Varžić Silvija
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to examine the impact of personality on glycemic regulation in adult patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). The study group consisted of subjects with T1DM, who were ≥ 18 years of age. The study was conducted in two phases: At baseline, subjects completed the Croatian version of the International Personality Item Pool scale (IPIP50s) and a questionnaire designed to gather socioeconomic data, duration of diabetes, presence of chronic complications, presence of cardiovascular risk factors, frequency, and type of pre-existing hypoglycemic episodes per week. Blood and urine samples were collected and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Each participant was provided with the intermittently scanned glucose monitoring system (isCGM) Freestyle Libre. During the second visit (3 months from the start of the trial), glycemic parameters were collected from the reports generated from the Freestyle Libre system. Estimated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values were significantly lower after three months compared to baseline HbA1c (Wilcoxon test, p < 0.001). An inverse correlation between the number of daily scans and degree of extraversion among subjects was observed, e.g., higher degrees of extraversion resulted in lower numbers of daily scans, while lower degrees of extraversion, i.e., introvertedness, resulted in higher numbers of daily scans (Rho = −0.238 p = 0.009). There was a positive correlation between emotional stability and time spent in hypoglycemia (Rho = 0.214; p = 0.02). In addition, a shorter duration of diabetes was associated with higher percentages of TIR and vice versa (p = 0.02). Investigating personality traits can be a useful tool for identifying patients predisposed to hypoglycemia and lower scanning frequency. Patients with a longer history of T1DM require closer follow-up and should be re-educated when necessary.
Should Audits Consider the Care Pathway Model? A New Approach to Benchmarking Real-World Activities
Authors: Kwok Chun Shing , Waters David , Phan Thanh , Myint Phyo Kyaw , Lip Gregory Y. H.
Published: September 2022

Clinical audit is a method to assess the quality of healthcare services based on whether standards are met or not met. This approach is limited because it fails to recognize how decisions that take place over time and the natural progression of disease has an impact on what happens to patients and the care they receive. The aim of this paper is to introduce the concept of care pathway and explain how care pathways can be audited to better understand care. The care pathway is defined by clinically relevant events that take place within one or more healthcare institutions. The process begins with defining an ideal care pathway which is created by considering local expertise and guidelines. It is then possible to audit against the extent to which this ideal care pathway is achieved. This care pathway audit can enable identification of patterns in real-world care which can help with the of design interventions to help shift patients from the less to more desirable pathways. We conclude that through the process of the care pathway audit cycle, it is possible to learn about real-world activities, better utilize resources, promote safer care, improve quality of care, and help develop more effective interventions.
Droplet Distribution in a University Dental Clinic Setting: The Importance of High-Volume Evacuation
Authors: Gualtieri Linda , Yong Ronald , Ah-Kion Jessley , Jamil Amanda L. A. , Bazaei Asmae , Kotecha Jhanvi , Long Sharron , Silcock Gloria , Miller Catherine M.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study is to compare droplet distribution during a piezoelectric ultrasonic debridement procedure using either high-volume or slow-volume evacuation. Droplet distribution during a crown preparation with slow-volume evacuation is also examined. Fluorescein dye is added to the water reservoir and the procedures are performed by a single operator for 15 min on a dental manikin with artificial upper and lower teeth. Placement of filter paper squares (10 cm × 10 cm) in radiating lines away from the oral cavity of the dental manikin allows for visualization of droplet dispersion. Results show minimal difference in the spread of the droplets between the two evacuators during the debridement procedure; however, the slow-volume evacuator produces a higher concentration of droplets than the high-volume evacuator. An even higher concentration of droplets in the vicinity of the dental chair is observed during the crown preparation procedure. This study recommends the use of a high-volume evacuator where possible during professional debridement and crown preparation to reduce contamination around the dental chair from potentially pathogenic microorganisms.
Improvements for the Micropropagation of Hybrid Hazelnut (C. americana × C. avellana)
Authors: P. Pincelli-Souza Renata , Sousa Moreira Laise , D. Cohen Jerry D.
Published: September 2022

The micropropagation of hybrid hazelnut (Corylus americana × Corylus avellana) has been limited in its agricultural application due to the lack of efficient procedures for tissue culture and root organogenesis. We established an efficient sterilization protocol for hazelnut micropropagation suitable for in vitro root induction that permitted us to approach the poor root organogenesis experienced with the micropropagation of hazelnut hybrids in vitro. Typically, with standard protocols, root organogenesis had yields of well under 20%. We found that cuttings grown in vitro to the four-leaf stage can be successfully rooted using a combination of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) pretreatment, followed by a one-week growth period in absolute darkness. The dark period was then followed by a transition to continuous light. In many cases, prolific visible roots formed between 12 and 14 days.
Effects of Exogenous Salicylic Acid (SA), 6-Benzylaminopurine (6-BA), or Abscisic Acid (ABA) on the Physiology of Rosa hybrida ‘Carolla’ under High-Temperature Stress
Authors: Wang Kaixuan , Shen Yuxiao , Wang Han , He Songlin , Kim Wan Soon , Shang Wenqian , Wang Zheng , Shi Liyun
Published: September 2022

The study of the regulatory mechanism of exogenous plant growth regulators (PGRs) on the relevant physiological indicators is essential to maintain the normal growth of Rosa hybrida under high-temperature conditions. The photosynthetic and physiological characteristics of the ornamental cut rose Rosa hybrida ‘Carolla’ under high temperature were studied by spraying leaves with various concentrations of exogenous salicylic acid (SA; 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 mmol·L−1), 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA; 10, 20, 30, or 50 μmol·L−1), abscisic acid (ABA; 10, 20, 30, or 50 mg·L−1), or distilled water (control). The results indicated that a foliar spray of either SA, 6-BA, or ABA could mitigate the impact of high temperatures. Compared to the control, the application of SA, 6-BA, or ABA increased the net CO2 assimilation rate (An), transpiration rate (E), stomatal conductance (Gs), and water use efficiency (WUE) of ‘Carolla’, while decreasing the leaf relative electrical conductivity (REC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. The applications of SA, 6-BA, or ABA increased the activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and altered the proline (Pro), soluble protein, and soluble sugar contents. The results showed that foliar sprays of SA, 6-BA, or ABA could enhance the heat tolerance of ‘Carolla’ by promoting photosynthesis, cell membrane structural stability, antioxidant enzyme activity, and osmoregulation in plants under high-temperature stress. The experiment showed that 1.5 mmol·L−1 SA, 20 μmol·L−1 6-BA, or 75 μmol·L−1 ABA could alleviate the damage caused by high temperatures, with 20 μmol·L−1 6-BA having the best effect.
Biodiversity and Spatiotemporal Distribution of Spontaneous Vegetation in Tangdao Bay National Wetland Park, Qingdao City, China
Authors: Xu Yue , Zhang Xuliang , Liu Xiujun , Zhang Zhaohui
Published: September 2022

Spontaneous vegetation plays an important role in protecting urban biodiversity and the maintenance of urban ecosystems. In this study, we investigated the species diversity, life-form composition, origin, flowering season, and spatiotemporal distribution of spontaneous vegetation in the exhibition and education area of Tangdao Bay National Wetland Park using the quadrat survey method. There were 65 spontaneous association types and 210 spontaneous plant species, belonging to 151 genera and 44 families. The associations and species of spontaneous plants in roadside habitats were found to be the highest. In addition, many species were found in woodland and lakeside habitats, whereas the lowest number of species were found in coastal habitats. The life-form composition included 76 annual and 94 perennial herb species. These plants were of various origins. There were 160 native, 9 domestically introduced, 2 introduced alien, and 39 invasive alien plant species, which predominantly came from the Americas. A single peak was observed from March to November for the spontaneous plant species that were in their growing season, including those of different life forms and from various sources. The same was true for spontaneous plants in their flowering season. During their growing season, the number of spontaneous plant species was highest during September and, during their flowering season, the number of species was highest in July. From April to September, the Shannon–Wiener diversity index for spontaneous vegetation in the roadside habitat was the highest, followed by those for the woodland and lakeside habitats, and that of the coastline habitat was the lowest. The monthly average Shannon–Wiener diversity index for spontaneous plant associations in the four habitats also varied, with a single peak. The diversity of spontaneous plants and alien invasive plants in Tangdao Bay National Wetland Park is high. The wise use and protection of spontaneous flowering plants with long ornamental seasons can effectively reduce the maintenance costs, resource consumption, and energy requirements of the park. Spontaneous plants should also be managed to reduce the harm from alien invasive plants in the park, and alien invasive plants should be removed from the park during their flowering seasons.
Emission Estimation of On-Demand Meal Delivery Services Using a Macroscopic Simulation
Authors: Schnieder Maren , Hinde Chris , West Andrew
Published: September 2022

While macroscopic simulations of passenger vehicle traffic within cities are now common practice, the integration of last mile delivery into a macroscopic simulation to evaluate the emissions has seldomly been achieved. In fact, studies focusing solely on last mile delivery generally focus on evaluating the delivery service itself. This ignores the effect the delivery service may have on the traffic flow in cities, and therefore, on the resulting emissions. This study fills this gap by presenting the results of two macroscopic traffic simulations of New York City (NYC) in PTV VISUM: (i) on-demand meal delivery services, where the emissions are evaluated for each OD-Pairs (i.e., each trip) and (ii) on-demand meal delivery services, where the emissions are evaluated for each link of the network (i.e., street). This study highlights the effect on-demand meal delivery has on the travelled distance (i.e., detours), congestion and emissions per km of every vehicle in the network, not just the delivery vehicles.
Mattering and Depressive Symptoms in Portuguese Postpartum Women: The Indirect Effect of Loneliness
Authors: Caetano Bárbara , Branquinho Mariana , Canavarro Maria Cristina , Fonseca Ana
Published: September 2022

Background: Postpartum depression is described as the most prevalent clinical condition in the postpartum period, with several negative consequences. The current study aimed to understand the relationship between mattering, loneliness and depressive symptoms in Portuguese postpartum women and to examine the potential mediating role of loneliness in the relationship between mattering and depressive symptomatology among postpartum women. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a sample collected online composed of 530 Portuguese women in the postpartum period, who answered self-report questionnaires to assess depressive symptoms, mattering, and loneliness. Results: It was found that the relationships between mattering, loneliness, and depressive symptoms were significant, p < 0.001: (a) higher levels of mattering were associated with lower levels of loneliness and depressive symptomatology and (b) higher levels of loneliness were associated with higher levels of depressive symptomatology. The relationship between mattering and postpartum depressive symptoms occurred directly and indirectly through loneliness, 95% CI = [−0.75, −0.46]. Conclusions: These results highlight the importance of studying loneliness as a possible risk factor for postpartum depression and alert to the pertinence of considering mattering and loneliness in the assessment and intervention with women in the perinatal period.
Consequences of COVID-19 on Employees in Remote Working: Challenges, Risks and Opportunities An Evidence-Based Literature Review
Authors: De Vincenzi Clara , Pansini Martina , Ferrara Bruna , Buonomo Ilaria , Benevene Paula
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic forced organizations across all sectors and sizes to undertake crucial changes in order to remain productive during the emergency. Among these, the shift towards remote working arrangements is still present in our workplaces, impacting employees’ well-being and productivity. This systematic review aims to describe the pandemic’s consequences on work organization by analyzing whether and how the shift towards remote or home-working impacted employees’ productivity, performance, and well-being. Furthermore, it describes the role of individual and organizational factors in determining employees’ adjustment to remote work. Sixty-seven peer-reviewed papers published from 2020 to 2022, written in English, were selected through the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Findings describe how remote working arrangements, the workplace and organizational factors, and the employees’ individual traits and skills impacted employees’ productivity and well-being. Furthermore, they provide a description of the organizational enforcement actions reported in the literature. Managerial and practical implications, such as enforcement actions, team management strategies, and initiatives to promote employees’ physical and mental health, will be discussed in the paper.
Associations between Sleep Duration and Anthropometric Indices of Adiposity in Female University Students
Authors: Borowska Beata , Suder Agnieszka , Kliś Katarzyna , Wronka Iwona
Published: September 2022

Objectives: To examine associations between sleep duration as well as time of going to sleep and anthropometric indices related to the amount and distribution of adiposity. Material: A total of 969 female university students, aged 19–24 years. Methods: Participants self-reported their sleep duration. Body weight, height, and waist circumference were measured. BMI, WHR and WHtR were calculated. Statistical analyses of results involved logistic regression models. Socioeconomic status and level of stress were added as covariates. Results: In 15% of the sample, sleep was too short (<6 h), and 10% slept too long (>8 h). Compared to women who followed the recommended sleep duration, among short sleepers, both underweight and overweight were more frequent, while long sleepers were more likely to be overweight. A higher prevalence of abdominal obesity and increased risk of metabolic syndrome were observed in both short and long sleepers than in recommended sleepers. Irregular sleep times were connected with higher OR, both for BMI < 18.5 and BMI > 25, for WC > 80, and WHtR below 0.4 and above 0.5. Irregular sleep times also led to an increased risk of metabolic diseases prevalence. Conclusions: Both too long and too short sleep increases the risk of overweight, obesity and abdominal obesity and, as a consequence, the risk of metabolic syndrome in young women.
Esports for Seniors: Acute Effects of Esports Gaming in the Community on the Emotional State and Heart Rate among Japanese Older Adults
Authors: Onishi Togo , Yamasaki Masayuki , Hara Taketaka , Hirotomi Tetsuya , Miyazaki Ryo
Published: September 2022

In the last few years, esports have become popular among older individuals. Although participation in esports can become a novel activity for older adults, evidence on their effects is limited to young individuals. This study investigated the effects of esports participation on the emotional and physiological states of older adults. Twenty-five older men and women participating in health promotion activities in community centers (75 ± 8 years old) played a two-player racing game (Gran Turismo Sport, Sony) for 8–10 min. Their heart rates (HRs) were measured while the subjects played the games. The blood pressure (BP) and Profile of Mood States (POMS) were measured before and after gaming. The average HR during games (98 ± 17 bpm) was significantly higher than at pre-gaming (76 ± 11 bpm, p < 0.001). The BP before and after the games did not significantly change. Interestingly, the vigor scores (positive mood affect) in POMS increased after the games (p < 0.05) in females, but not in males. In summary, among older individuals, playing esports games showed a moderate increase in HR, no spike/drop of BP, and positive mood elevation. Our preliminary data suggest the feasibility of participating in esports in a community for older adults and that it could affect mood positively, especially among older women.
The National Outcomes Evaluation Programme in Italy: The Impact of Publication of Health Indicators
Authors: Colais Paola , Pinnarelli Luigi , Mataloni Francesca , Giordani Barbara , Duranti Giorgia , D’Errigo Paola , Rosato Stefano , Seccareccia Fulvia , Baglio Giovanni , Davoli Marina
Published: September 2022

In Italy the National Outcomes Evaluation Programme, (P.N.E.) is the most comprehensive comparative evaluation of healthcare outcomes at the national level. The aim of this report is to describe the P.N.E. and some of the most relevant results achieved. The P.N.E. analysed 184 indicators on quality of care in 2015–2020 period. The data sources are the Italian Health Information Systems. The indicators reported were: proportion of surgery within 2 days after hip fracture in the elderly (HF), 30-day mortality after hospital admission for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), proportion of reoperations within 90 days of breast-conserving surgery and proportion of primary caesarean deliveries. Risk adjustment methods were used to take into account patients’ characteristics. From 2010 to 2020 the proportion of interventions within 2 days after HF increased from 31.3% to 64.6%, the AMI 30-day mortality decreased from 10.4% to 8.3%, the proportion of reinterventions within 90 days of breast-conserving surgery decreased from 12.0% to 5.9% and the proportion of primary caesarean deliveries decreased from 28.4% to 22.7%. Results by area of residence showed heterogeneity of healthcare quality. We observed a general improvement in different clinical areas not always associated with a reduction of heterogeneity among areas of residence.
Do Cross-Group Differences in Life Satisfaction Reflect Measurement Bias or True Differences in Life Satisfaction? Evidence from a Dutch National Sample
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine measurement invariance of the Dutch version of the Satisfaction with Life Scale between groups based on gender, age, education, perceived difficulty of the survey, perceived clarity of the survey, and national background. A nationally representative Dutch sample was used (N = 5369). Multiple-groups confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to test measurement invariance. Full metric and scalar invariance were supported for all groups studied. These results indicate that the items of the scale are understood and answered similarly by all groups. Therefore, the 5 items of the Satisfaction with Life Scale measure the same construct in all groups. In other words, the differences in the life satisfaction scores are indicative of actual differences in life satisfaction rather than measurement artifacts and biases. This means that the levels of life satisfaction can be meaningfully compared between groups in The Netherlands.
Three-Dimensional Landscape Pattern Characteristics of Land Function Zones and Their Influence on PM2.5 Based on LUR Model in the Central Urban Area of Nanchang City, China
Authors: Chen Wenbo , Zhang Fuqing , Luo Saiwei , Lu Taojie , Zheng Jiao , He Lei
Published: September 2022

China’s rapid urbanization and industrialization process has triggered serious air pollution. As a main air pollutant, PM2.5 is affected not only by meteorological conditions, but also by land use in urban area. The impacts of urban landscape on PM2.5 become more complicated from a three-dimensional (3D) and land function zone point of view. Taking the urban area of Nanchang city, China, as a case and, on the basis of the identification of urban land function zones, this study firstly constructed a three-dimensional landscape index system to express the characteristics of 3D landscape pattern. Then, the land-use regression (LUR) model was applied to simulate PM2.5 distribution with high precision, and a geographically weighted regression model was established. The results are as follows: (1) the constructed 3D landscape indices could reflect the 3D characteristics of urban landscape, and the overall 3D landscape indices of different urban land function zones were significantly different; (2) the effects of 3D landscape spatial pattern on PM2.5 varied significantly with land function zone type; (3) the effects of 3D characteristics of landscapes on PM2.5 in different land function zones are expressed in different ways and exhibit a significant spatial heterogeneity. This study provides a new idea for reducing air pollution by optimizing the urban landscape pattern.
Relationship between Job Satisfaction and Workload of Nurses in Adult Inpatient Units
Authors: Hellín Gil María Fuensanta , Ruiz Hernández José Antonio , Ibáñez-López Francisco Javier , Seva Llor Ana Myriam , Roldán Valcárcel Maria Dolores , Mikla Marzena , López Montesinos María José
Published: September 2022

Among Nursing and Psychology professionals, the job satisfaction of those in Adult Inpatient Units is analyzed, with a new scale to measure nursing workloads validated. Objective: The objective of this study was to relate nursing workloads to professional job satisfaction. Methods: This is an observational, analytical, descriptive, concurrent and quantitative study, which used the Overall Job Satisfaction scale and subscales therein, to identify global satisfaction—intrinsic or related to motivational factors and extrinsic or associated with hygienic factors—in nursing professionals (n = 104) from eight Inpatient Units of Internal Medicine and Surgery, in four hospital centers, to describe job satisfaction in the professionals studied and to find statistically significant associations between job satisfaction and workload (measured with the scale MIDENF®) in the inpatient units where they work. Results: There were higher levels of satisfaction in the variables “relationship with immediate boss” and “relationship with fellow workers”, and lower levels in “relationship with senior management” and “organizational system of the unit”. In the inferential analysis, the scores were 75.63 for overall satisfaction, 35.28 for intrinsic satisfaction, and 40.36 for extrinsic satisfaction. Conclusions: There is a close relationship between workload and job satisfaction, showing more dissatisfaction regarding organizational aspects and professional recognition.
Which Structural Interventions for Adolescent Contraceptive Use Have Been Evaluated in Low- and Middle-Income Countries?
Authors: Burchett Helen Elizabeth Denise , Kneale Dylan , Griffin Sally , de Melo Málica , Picardo Joelma Joaquim , French Rebecca S.
Published: September 2022

Reducing adolescent childbearing is a global priority, and enabling contraceptive use is one means of achieving this. Upstream factors, e.g., gender inequalities, fertility norms, poverty, empowerment and schooling, can be major factors affecting contraceptive use. We conducted a systematic map to understand which structural adolescent contraception interventions targeting these upstream factors have been evaluated in LMICs. We searched eight academic databases plus relevant websites and a 2016 evidence gap map and screened references based on set inclusion criteria. We screened 6993 references and included 40 unique intervention evaluations, reported in 138 papers. Seventeen evaluations were reported only in grey literature. Poverty reduction/economic empowerment interventions were the most common structural intervention, followed by interventions to increase schooling (e.g., through legislation or cash transfers) and those aiming to change social norms. Half of the evaluations were RCTs. There was variation in the timing of endline outcome data collection and the outcome measures used. A range of structural interventions have been evaluated for their effect on adolescent contraceptive use/pregnancy. These interventions, and their evaluations, are heterogenous in numerous ways. Improved understandings of how structural interventions work, as well as addressing evaluation challenges, are needed to facilitate progress in enabling adolescent contraceptive use in LMICs.
Establishing Occupational Therapy Needs: A Semi-Structured Interview with Hereditary Transthyretin Amyloidosis Patients
Authors: Gayà-Barroso Aina , González-Moreno Juan , Rodríguez Adrián , Ripoll-Vera Tomás , Losada-López Inés , Gili Margarita , Paneque Milena , Cisneros-Barroso Eugenia
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to explore the occupational performance and needs of patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv). A semi-structured interview was conducted by an occupational therapist with 44 patients with Val50Met-ATTRv recruited through patient associations. The interview addressed three related dimensions. The first one, the physical dimension, was evaluated using the Spanish versions of the Barthel Index, the Lawton and Brody scale, and the Norfolk questionnaire; the second one, the psychological dimension, was assessed with the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale and the SF-36 questionnaire; and the third dimension, the occupational performance, was assessed through unstructured questions on daily occupations, work, roles, and hobbies given the lack of standardized scales. Twenty participants (45.4%) responded that the disease had affected their basic activities of daily living, twenty- four (54.5%) perceived an impact on their instrumental activities of daily living, and all the participants reported that the disease symptoms had affected their ability to perform advanced activities as well as their employment status. Only three patients (6.8%) reported a lack of psychological impairment following disease diagnosis. These findings suggest that a semi-structured interview conducted by an occupational therapist can provide essential information that should be considered for the implementation of occupational therapy programs targeting patients living with a diagnosis of ATTRv.
Use of Nonprescription and Prescription Drugs and Drug Information Sources among Breastfeeding Women in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fujii Yukiko , Hirokawa Keiko , Kobuke Yuko , Kubota Toshio , Yoshitake Taketo , Haraguchi Koichi , Honda Yukiko , Kobayashi Hatasu , Harada Kouji H.
Published: September 2022

Breastfeeding women may experience various health issues that require medication. This survey aimed to gain insights into the use of nonprescription and prescription drugs by breastfeeding women in Japan. A cross-sectional study involving women with children aged under two years was conducted in Fukuoka, Japan. Nonprescription drugs were used by 26% of participants in the breastfed-only group, 41% in the breastfed more than half the time group, 55% in the formula-fed more than half the time group, and 82% in the formula-fed-only group. We found that when breastfeeding rates decreased, the use of nonprescription drugs increased (p < 0.05, Cochran–Armitage test for trend). There were significant differences in the use of nonprescription cold medicines and oral analgesics between the formula-fed and breastfed groups, but a nonsignificant difference in prescription drugs use between the groups. These results indicated breastfeeding had a significant influence on use of nonprescription drugs, which was not observed with prescription drugs. Breastfeeding women commonly used the Internet to obtain information on both nonprescription and prescription drugs; however, this did not influence medication use.