bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Ginseng Powder Supplementation on the Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Capacity, and Sensory Characteristics of Cream Soup
Authors: Kwon Kang-Sik , Shabbir Umair , Cha Seung-Hyeon , Jang Keum-Il
Published: April 2022

Ginseng has been used as a medicinal herb in Asian countries for hundreds of years. It contains many kinds of ginsenosides as major active ingredients and is known to have neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antidiabetic properties. In this study, we have developed cream soup with different concentrations (0%, 3%, 5%, 7%, and 10%) of ginseng powder (GP) and determined the quality characteristics (color, viscosity, salinity, etc.) and antioxidant activity, along with sensory parameters. After the addition of GP, significant differences in salinity, L* and a*color value, DPPH, and ABTS were found among different concentrations of GP. Cream soup supplemented with GP 10% exhibited the highest values for DPPH and ABTS (83.5% and 87%, respectively), while the contents of total phenolic and saponin were 0.651 ± 0.02 (mg Gallic acid Equiv./g, DW) and 0.797 ± 0.05 (mg Diosgenin Equiv./g, DW), respectively. Moreover, there were no significant changes for °Brix value, pH, acidity, and total flavonoids content compared to control. The sensory characteristics indicated bitterness with the increase in the concentration of GP. However, a non-significant difference was observed between the control and supplemented samples for color, viscosity, and overall preference. Therefore, the supplementation of GP to cream soup could exhibit health benefits and increase the demand for ginseng to promote public health as functional food material.
Isolation, Characterization, and Application of Clostridium sporogenes F39 to Degrade Zearalenone under Anaerobic Conditions
Authors: Zhai Congning , Yu Yangguang , Han Jun , Hu Junqiang , He Dan , Zhang Hongyin , Shi Jianrong , Mohamed Sherif Ramzy , Dawood Dawood H. , Wang Gang , Xu Jianhong
Published: April 2022

Zearalenone (ZEN) is produced by Fusarium spp. and is widely found in moldy wheat, corn, and other grains. ZEN has a strong toxicity and causes reproductive and immune disorders and estrogenic syndrome in animals and humans. Biodegradation has been demonstrated as an efficient way to control the hazardous effect of ZEN. A promising way to apply biodegradation in feed is to introduce anaerobic ZEN-degrading microorganisms, which can function during the digestion process in animal intestines. The aim of this study was to isolate anaerobic ZEN-degrading bacteria from anaerobic environments. A strain named F39 was isolated from animal intestinal contents and had a ZEN-degradation rate of 87.35% in 48 h to form trace amount of α- and β-zearalenol. Based on the morphological and physiological properties and phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA and rpoB gene sequences, F39 was identified as Clostridium sporogenes. The optimum temperature for the growth of F39 was 37 °C, the optimum pH was 7.0, and the most suitable carbon source was beef extract, while the optimal conditions for the degradation of ZEN were as follows: 35 °C, pH 7.0, and GAM medium. ZEN was degraded by F39 with a high efficiency in the concentration range of 1–15 mg/L. The bioactive factors responsible for ZEN degradation were mainly distributed intracellularly. F39 can degrade most of the ZEN present, but a small amount is broken down into two secondary metabolites, α- and β-zearalenol, and the toxicity of the degradation products is reduced. With an efficiency of 49%, F39 can more effectively degrade ZEN in wheat-based feedstuffs than in other feedstuff, and the degradation efficiency was pH related. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of Clostridium sporogenes F39’s ability to maintain the biodegradation potentials.
Quality Assessment of Fruits and Vegetables Based on Spatially Resolved Spectroscopy: A Review
Authors: Si Wan , Xiong Jie , Huang Yuping , Jiang Xuesong , Hu Dong
Published: April 2022

Damage occurs easily and is difficult to find inside fruits and vegetables during transportation or storage, which not only brings losses to fruit and vegetable distributors, but also reduces the satisfaction of consumers. Spatially resolved spectroscopy (SRS) is able to detect the quality attributes of fruits and vegetables at different depths, which is of great significance to the quality classification and defect detection of horticultural products. This paper is aimed at reviewing the applications of spatially resolved spectroscopy for measuring the quality attributes of fruits and vegetables in detail. The principle of light transfer in biological tissues, diffusion approximation theory and methodologies are introduced, and different configuration designs for spatially resolved spectroscopy are compared and analyzed. Besides, spatially resolved spectroscopy applications based on two aspects for assessing the quality of fruits and vegetables are summarized. Finally, the problems encountered in previous studies are discussed, and future development trends are presented. It can be concluded that spatially resolved spectroscopy demonstrates great application potential in the field of fruit and vegetable quality attribute evaluation. However, due to the limitation of equipment configurations and data processing speed, the application of spatially resolved spectroscopy in real-time online detection is still a challenge.
The Optimisation of Cooking Parameters for Spirt Whiskey Production from Native Irish Wheat: A Response Surface Method Approach
Authors: Morris Sinead , Byrne John L. , Murphy Ben , Whelan Stephen J. , Carroll John P. , Ryan David
Published: April 2022

Barley and maize have dominated the Irish whiskey sector, but in recent years, alternative grains have started to gain traction. Ireland has a high average wheat yield, producing grain that is high in starch but low in protein, offering the potential for use in distillation. To successfully utilise Irish-grown wheat in distillation, cultivars that are suitable to the Irish climate and give high yields of alcohol need to be identified. This necessitates the development of a rapid screening test for grain alcohol yield. This study examined the optimal temperature, time period, α-amylase dose rate, and calcium concentration to be used in the cooking of wheat grain to maximise alcohol yields. It was determined that lower cooking temperatures are more successful in achieving higher alcohol yields, and it was confirmed that temperature is a key variable in the cooking process. By optimising all parameters, alcohol yields of 458 LA/tonne were obtained, demonstrating that the optimum parameters can be successfully used for both hard and soft endoderm wheat produced in Ireland as well as for different varieties. This indicates potential for producing higher alcohol yields using Irish-grown wheat in Irish distilleries.
Effect of COVID-19 on Attitude and Travel Mode Based on Walking Distance—The Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Puppateravanit Chonnipa , Sano Kazushi , Hatoyama Kiichiro
Published: April 2022

This study examines the relationship between travel modes and the attitudes of residents and travelers around mass transit stations. The importance of this study was emphasized by considering that the attitudes toward residence could affect future travel and relocation considerations. In particular, the outbreak of COVID-19 may have a significant effect on their relationship. To investigate the direct and indirect effects before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, a moderated mediation model was used to test the hypothesis of this study by three-step approach analysis. The attitude toward residence was defined to test the hypothesis of the mediator, and the walking distance to the nearest mass transit station was employed to identify the level of the moderator. The results indicated that the attitude toward residence mediated the relationship between the attitude toward travel mode and travel mode behavior. The sensitivity of COVID-19 accurately reflects the various effects on travel mode. Moreover, multi-group analyses show that walking distance moderators have a direct effect on attitudes toward travel mode and travel mode behavior as well as the attitude toward residence.
The Basic Study of Liposome in Temperature-Sensitive Gel at Body Temperature for Treatment of Peritoneal Dissemination
Authors: Sugiyama Ikumi , Ando Kaana , Sadzuka Yasuyuki
Published: April 2022

Peritoneal dissemination is a disease that is difficult to treat surgically because it is widely scattered and proliferates in the abdominal cavity. It is a challenge that even if the drug is administered directly into the abdominal cavity, it rapidly disappears from the abdominal cavity, and the therapeutic effect is not optimal, as expected. In this study, for a liposomal paclitaxel in temperature-sensitive gel that is a suspension before administration and a gel after intraperitoneal administration, the antitumor effect of this formulation was evaluated. Temperature-sensitive gels were prepared using methylcellulose, sodium citrate, and macrogol 4000 and mixed with liposomal paclitaxel. Liposomal paclitaxel containing temperature-sensitive gel in the body was administered into the peritoneal cavity of a mouse model of peritoneal dissemination; the number of cells was significantly reduced compared to a paclitaxel solution of liposomal paclitaxel. These results showed that the liposome in temperature-sensitive gel inhibited cell proliferation in the abdominal cavity. This formulation can be administered easily at room temperature, and it gels and remains in the abdominal cavity for a long period, resulting in a more substantial effect than the existing drug.
Changing from Visibility to Invisibility—An Intersectional Perspective on Mixedness in Switzerland and Morocco
Authors: Gilliéron Gwendolyn
Published: April 2022

In the context of intermarriage, mixedness can take different forms. Most often, it refers to a mix of class, religion, nationality, ethnicity or ‘race’ in a couple. In this article, I go beyond a separate analysis of categories, analyzing the interrelation of these factors. The article discusses how and under which circumstances mixed children become visible in Switzerland and Morocco using a comparative and intersectional approach to mixedness. Based on 23 biographical narrative interviews, I analyze three situations of stigmatization: racialization, language practices and othering due to religious affiliation. Stigmatization processes due to mixedness, it is argued, are a relational phenomenon depending not only on markers such as ‘race’, ethnicity and religion but also on their interplay with gender, class, language and biographical experiences. The results suggest that mixed individuals have found creative ways to navigate their visibility: they normalize their binational origin, look for alternative spaces of belonging, emphasize their ‘Swiss-ness’ or ‘Moroccan-ness’, use languages to influence their social positioning or acquire knowledge about their binational origin in order to confront stigmatizations. The study reveals further that processes of othering due to mixedness are not only an issue in ‘Western’ societies that look back on a long history of immigration and have pronounced migration discourses. Even in Morocco, a country where immigration has so far been a marginal phenomenon, the importance of social hierarchies for the positioning of people of binational origin is evident.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Three Family Members with a Novel NNT Pathogenic Variant Causing Primary Adrenal Insufficiency
Authors: Krasovec Tjasa , Sikonja Jaka , Zerjav Tansek Mojca , Debeljak Marusa , Ilovar Sasa , Trebusak Podkrajsek Katarina , Bertok Sara , Tesovnik Tine , Kovac Jernej , Suput Omladic Jasna , Hartmann Michaela F. , Wudy Stefan A. , Avbelj Stefanija Magdalena , Battelino Tadej , Kotnik Primoz , Groselj Urh
Published: April 2022

Nicotinamide nucleotide transhydrogenase (NNT) deficiency causes primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) and possibly some extra-adrenal manifestations. A limited number of these patients were previously described. We present the clinical and genetic characteristics of three family members with a biallelic novel pathogenic variant in the NNT gene. The patients were followed until the ages of 21.6, 20.2, and 4.2 years. PAI was diagnosed in the eldest two brothers after an Addisonian crisis and the third was diagnosed at the age of 4.5 months in the asymptomatic stage due to the genetic screening of family members. Whole exome sequencing with a targeted interpretation of variants in genes related to PAI was performed in all the patients. The urinary steroid metabolome was determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry in the asymptomatic patient. The three patients, who were homozygous for c.1575dup in the NNT gene, developed isolated glucocorticoid deficiency. The urinary steroid metabolome showed normal excretion of cortisol metabolites. The adolescent patients had slow pubertal progression with low–normal testicular volume, while testicular endocrine function was normal. Bone mineral density was in the range for osteopenia in both grown-up siblings. Echocardiography revealed no structural or functional heart abnormalities. This article is among the first with a comprehensive and chronologically-detailed description of patients with NNT deficiency.
A Risk Model of Eight Immune-Related Genes Predicting Prognostic Response to Immune Therapies for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Yu Miao , Zhang Yi , Mao Rongchen , Zhu Chao , Zhao Ruixue , Jin Lai
Published: April 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment is considered as an innovative approach for cancers. Since not every patient responded well to ICI therapy, it is imperative to screen out novel signatures to predict prognosis. Based on 407 gastric cancer (GC) samples retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), 36 immune-related hub genes were identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and eight of them (RNASE2, CGB5, INHBE, DUSP1, APOA1, CD36, PTGER3, CTLA4) were used to formulate the Cox regression model. The obtained risk score was proven to be significantly correlated with overall survival (OS), consistent with the consequence of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohort (n = 433). Then, the relationship between the risk score and clinical, molecular and immune characteristics was further investigated. Results showed that the low-risk subgroup exhibited higher mutation rate, more M1 macrophages, CD8+ and CD4+ T cells infiltrating, more active MHC-I, and bias to “IFN-γ Dominant” immune type, which is consistent with our current understanding of tumor prognostic risk. Furthermore, it is suggested that our model can accurately predict 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS of GC patients, and that it was superior to other canonical models, such as TIDE and TIS. Thus, these eight genes are probably considered as potential signatures to predict prognosis and to distinguish patient benefit from ICI, serving as a guiding individualized immunotherapy.
Estimation of In Situ Heat Capacity and Thermal Diffusivity from Undisturbed Ground Temperature Profile Measured in Ground Heat Exchangers
Authors: Pambou Claude Hugo K. , Raymond Jasmin , Miranda Mafalda M. , Giordano Nicolò
Published: April 2022

Undisturbed ground temperature (UGT), thermal conductivity (TC) and heat capacity (HC) are essential parameters to design geothermal heat pumps and underground thermal energy storage systems, particularly borehole heat exchangers (BHE). However, field methods to assess the thermal state and properties of the subsurface are costly and time consuming. Moreover, HC is often not evaluated in situ but arbitrarily selected from literature considering the geological materials intercepted by boreholes. This work proposes an original empirical approach to reproduce a UGT profile and estimate in situ thermal diffusivity (TD) and HC in the scope of conventional thermal response tests (TRTs). Empirical equations were developed to reproduce a UGT profile measured along a BHE. Experimental coefficients are found with a non-linear least square solver optimization and used to calculate the damping depth, TD and HC. The suggested heat tracing method was verified and validated against other field methods demonstrating to be fast and reliable. The novelty of this new empirical approach relies on the use of a single temperature profile providing a simple way to better assess subsurface thermal properties.
Is Chlorhexidine in Dentistry an Ally or a Foe? A Narrative Review
Authors: Pałka Łukasz , Nowakowska-Toporowska Agnieszka , Dalewski Bartosz
Published: April 2022

Chlorhexidine has been one of the most effective and popular antiseptic substances used in medicine for decades. In dentistry, it has been used in endodontics, periodontology, surgery, and general dentistry. It is also widely used daily by patients in mouth rinses, gels, or toothpastes. Because of its multiple uses, we should follow all types of research reporting its potential adverse effects. This article aims to review the most up-to-date studies regarding chlorhexidine and its possible side effects, in the period of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, as the use of different antiseptic substances has rapidly increased.
Pre-Pandemic Dietary Assessment of Elderly Persons Residing in Nursing Homes—Silesia (Poland)
Authors: Grajek Mateusz , Krupa-Kotara Karolina , Kobza Joanna , Yanakieva Antoniya
Published: April 2022

Background. Residents of nursing homes (NHs) are one of the most vulnerable social groups to SARS-CoV-2 infection. It seems obvious that all preventive methods, including nutrition, should be a priority for these homes. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the menus of elderly people residing in nursing homes and to compare them with the recommendations and especially with the scientific literature that proves the protective effect of nutrition on the course of COVID-19 disease. Material and methods. The material investigated in the research were decade menus selected at several nursing homes between 2017 and 2020. The total number of 4640 daily menus from 58 NHs located in Silesia (Poland) were analyzed in the research. Data analysis included mathematical tools of Kruskal–Wallis and U Mann–Whitney tests for multiple comparisons in scarcely observed samples (p = 0.05). Results. It has been noted that the energy value provided with food scored 1780.22 kcal, which denoted 102.72% of the daily standard for females and 98.23% for males. The investigated menus differed in terms of energy and nutrition value. The mean content of proteins totaled 47.95 g/day, which covered 93.83% of the daily requirements for this nutrient. When it came to fat content, a level of 109.12 g/day was observed; this covered 160.47% of the daily requirement for females and 143.58% for males. Absorbable carbohydrates constituted 116.60% of the daily standard, i.e., 151.59 g/day. It was stated that values for vitamin D reached 7.01 (±0.63) µg per day, which can be interpreted as 41.00% of the recommended intake for females and 42.00% for males. It was also noted that the values for vitamins A and E were respectively two and fifteen times lower than the recommendations. Conclusions. The evaluated menus must not be an aid in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. The content of energy from food, fats, and carbohydrates substantially exceeded recommended standards, whereas the content of proteins, vitamins A, E, D, zinc and calcium did not meet requirements regarding nutrition standards for the analyzed group.
Oral Hygiene and Periodontal Treatment Needs in Adult Patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
Authors: Hildebrandt Tomasz , Świętochowska Elżbieta , Trzcionka Agata , Zawilska Anna , Mazurek Henryk , Mączkowiak Dagmara , Rahnama Mansur , Tanasiewicz Marta
Published: April 2022

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal multisystem recessive genetic disease. Patients with Cystic Fibrosis, oral bacteria related to dental and periodontal diseases that can also inhabit the lungs, increases the risk for systemic complications. Our study aimed at assessing oral hygiene status of cystic fibrosis adult patients. The study was conducted on 40 patients diagnosed with CF and 40 healthy participants. The following indices were included: Simplified Oral Hygiene (OHI-S), Approximal Plaque Index (API), Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN), and a questionnaire. Obtained results proved that the API was 44.63% in the study group, indicating sufficient hygiene, and 37% in the control group, indicating quite good hygiene. Significantly higher OHI-S was found in the study group. It was found based on the analysis of treatment needs that home care and professional instructions on proper oral hygiene were more often needed in the control group compared to CF patients. In conclusion, the obtained API and OHI-S values in adult CF patients were indicative of satisfactory oral hygiene. Periodontal treatment needs assessed based on the CPITN index in patients with CF indicated the need for professional preventive treatments. An interdisciplinary dental care to support oral health could be recommendable in individuals with chronic respiratory diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis.
Impact of HIIT Sessions with and without Cognitive Load on Cortical Arousal, Accuracy and Perceived Exertion in Amateur Tennis Players
Authors: Clemente-Suárez Vicente Javier , Villafaina Santos , García-Calvo Tomás , Fuentes-García Juan Pedro
Published: April 2022

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) exercises, with and without cognitive load, on the accuracy, critical flicker fusion threshold (CFFT), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) on recreational tennis players. A total of 32 players of tennis at recreational level (25 men and 7 women) were enrolled in this cross-sectional the study. Participants had to perform, randomly, two HIIT sessions. In one of them, cognitive load was induced by conducting an incongruent Stroop during rests. After training accuracy of tennis serve, CFFT, and RPE were measured. Results showed that accuracy after baseline and HIIT without cognitive load were significantly higher than after HIIT with cognitive load. RPE significantly increased (p-value < 0.001) after HIIT sessions in both, with and without cognitive load. However, significant differences were not observed between the two sessions in the RPE (p-value = 0.405). Furthermore, differences were not obtained in the CFFT neither within nor between sessions (p-value > 0.05). Therefore, HIIT with and without cognitive load increased the RPE in recreational tennis players. Furthermore, HIIT sessions with cognitive load significant altered tennis serve accuracy.
Evolution of Liu Kang’s Palette and Painting Practice for the Execution of Female Nude Paintings: The Analytical Investigation of a Genre
Authors: Lizun Damian , Kurkiewicz Teresa , Mądry Mateusz , Szczupak Bogusław , Rogóż Jarosław
Published: April 2022

The comprehensive technical investigation of female nude paintings by the Singapore pioneer artist Liu Kang (1911–2004) provided the evidence for a discussion of the evolution of his palette of colours and his working process for expression in this genre, particularly the execution of female bodies. As the artist’s free expression in classical nude paintings was limited by the censorship imposed by the Singapore government, the investigated artworks span two periods, 1927–1954 (early career) and 1992–1999 (the “golden years”, during which censorship policies were relaxed). Hence, eight paintings from the Liu family and National Gallery Singapore were selected for non- and micro-invasive analyses of the paint layers. The obtained results were supplemented with archival sources to elucidate certain aspects of Liu Kang’s working practice. The investigation revealed the importance of drawing and sketching studies in the development of artistic ideas. The analytical techniques, such as polarised light microscopy (PLM), field emission scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectroscopy (FE-SEM-EDS) and attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), enabled us to observe a transition from the yellow iron-based tonal ranges of skin colours to complex pigment mixtures composed of additions of cobalt blue, ultramarine, Prussian blue, Cr-containing yellow(s) and green(s), cadmium yellow, orange and/or red and organic reds, revealing the artist’s more liberal use of colours and his experimentation with their contrasting and complementary juxtaposes. In terms of painting technique, the artist’s comparatively laborious paint application using small brushes quickly gave way to a more effortless manipulation of the paint using bigger brushes and the incorporation of palette knives. Moreover, visible light (VIS), near-infrared (NIR) and X-ray radiography (XRR) imaging techniques led to the discovery of a hidden composition in one investigated artwork, which bears resemblance to the nude painting known only from an archival photograph. Additionally, for the first time, the archival search provided photographic evidence that Liu Kang used oil paint tubes from Royal Talens and Rowney in the 1990s. Overall, this in-depth investigation contributes to the understanding of Liu Kang’s approach to the female nude painting and may assist conservators and art historians in studies of twentieth-century commercial paints.
Exercise Dose Equalization in High-Intensity Interval Training: A Scoping Review
Authors: Normand-Gravier Tom , Britto Florian , Launay Thierry , Renfree Andrew , Toussaint Jean-François , Desgorces François-Denis
Published: April 2022

Based on comparisons to moderate continuous exercise (MICT), high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is becoming a worldwide trend in physical exercise. This raises methodological questions related to equalization of exercise dose when comparing protocols. The present scoping review aims to identify in the literature the evidence for protocol equalization and the soundness of methods used for it. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for original investigations comparing the effects of HIIT to MICT. A total of 2041 articles were identified, and 169 were included. Of these, 98 articles equalized protocols by utilizing energy-based methods or exercise volume (58 and 31 articles, respectively). No clear consensus for protocol equalization appears to have evolved over recent years. Prominent equalization methods consider the exercise dose (i.e., energy expenditure/production or total volume) in absolute values without considering the nonlinear nature of its relationship with duration. Exercises resulting from these methods induced maximal exertion in HIIT but low exertion in MICT. A key question is, therefore, whether exercise doses are best considered in absolute terms or relative to individual exercise maximums. If protocol equalization is accepted as an essential methodological prerequisite, it is hypothesized that comparison of program effects would be more accurate if exercise was quantified relative to intensity-related maximums.
The Prevalence of Anemia and Its Associated Factors among Older Persons: Findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2015
Authors: Krishnapillai Ambigga , Omar Mohd Azahadi , Ariaratnam Suthahar , Awaluddin Smaria , Sooryanarayana Rajini , Kiau Ho Bee , Tauhid Noorlaili Mohd , Ghazali Sazlina Shariff
Published: April 2022

Background: There is limited evidence on the association of anemia with chronic diseases and disabilities among older persons in Malaysia. We assessed the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among community-dwelling older persons. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study using data from the nationwide National Health and Morbidity Survey 2015 (NHMS 2015) on the health of older adults conducted by the Institute for Public Health, National Institutes of Health, Malaysia. A two-stage stratified random-cluster sampling design was utilized. Data were collected on the sociodemographic profiles, non-communicable disease (NCD) comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes and hypercholesterolemia status) and disabilities among the older persons. Anemia was defined based on the World Health Organization’s standards. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association of anemia with chronic diseases and disabilities. Results: The prevalence of anemia was 35.3% (95% CI: 33.1, 37.4) in the older persons. Chronic disease profiling showed that the prevalence rates of anemia among the older persons with diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia were 38.6%, 35.3% and 34.1%, respectively. In the multivariable analysis, persons aged 80 years and above (adjusted OR (aOR): 2.64; 95% CI: 2.00, 3.47), 70–79 years (aOR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.21, 1.66), with diabetes (aOR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.51) and with disabilities in walking (aOR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.11, 1.54) and self-care (aOR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.22, 2.05) had higher odds of anemia compared to their respective reference categories. Among the persons with diabetes, the respondents aged 80 years and above (aOR: 2.48; 95% CI: 1.56, 3.94), 70–79 years old (aOR: 1.38; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.76) and with disabilities in vision (aOR: 1.29; 95% CI: 1.02, 1.63) and walking (aOR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.18, 1.91) were more likely to be anemic. Furthermore, among the older persons without diabetes, persons aged 80 years and above (aOR: 2.89; 95% CI: 2.05, 4.07), 70–79 years old (aOR: 1.46; 95% CI: 1.19, 1.80) and with difficulty in self-care (aOR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.30, 2.69) were more likely to be anemic. Conclusions: The resilient predictors of developing anemia were advancing age and diabetes, based on our study. Anemia is significantly associated with walking and vision disabilities among older persons with diabetes and with self-care difficulties in those without diabetes. There is a need for future studies to evaluate strategies to prevent anemia among older adults in order to promote healthy aging.
The Relationship between Social Support and Secondary Posttraumatic Growth among Health Care Providers Working with Trauma Victims—The Mediating Role of Cognitive Processing
Authors: Gurowiec Piotr Jerzy , Ogińska-Bulik Nina , Michalska Paulina , Kędra Edyta
Published: April 2022

Background: Individuals, who help trauma victims as part of their professional responsibilities, may experience positive effects of their work, occurring in the form of Secondary Posttraumatic Growth (SPTG). Its determinants include environmental factors such as social support, and individual characteristics, particularly cognitive processing of the trauma. The purpose of this study was to determine the associations between SPTG and social support and cognitive processing of trauma, also considered as a mediator, in a group of medical personnel exposed to secondary trauma. Methods: The results of 408 participants, paramedics and nurses, were analyzed. Three measurement tools were used: the Secondary Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, the Social Support Scale measuring four sources of support and the Cognitive Trauma Processing Scale to assess five cognitive coping strategies. Results: The results indicated that SPTG was positively related to social support and cognitive coping strategies. Cognitive coping strategies act as a mediator in the relationship between social support and SPTG. Conclusions: Despite their exposure to secondary traumatization, paramedics and nursing staff experience positive consequences of their work related to helping injured people. In order to promote growth after trauma, it is advisable to encourage medical representatives to use social support and primarily positive coping strategies.
Exercise and Occupational Stress among Firefighters
Authors: Soteriades Elpidoforos S. , Vogazianos Paris , Tozzi Federica , Antoniades Athos , Economidou Eleftheria C. , Psalta Lilia , Spanoudis George
Published: April 2022

The aim of our study was to evaluate the potential association between physical activity and occupational stress among firefighters. Data were collected from Cypriot firefighters through a web-based battery of internationally validated questionnaires completed anonymously (COPSOQ, DASS). A total of 430 firefighters (response rate 68%) completed the survey (age range: 21–60 years). More than half of the firefighters (54%) reported either no or minimal physical activity. A total of 11% of firefighters reported moderate to extremely severe stress based on the DASS-S scale. Using multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models, we showed that firefighters who exercised had 50% lower risk of occupational stress, and using a categorical model, we found that every hour per week of increased physical activity among firefighters was associated with 16% lower risk of occupational stress after adjusting for age, education, smoking, and body mass index (OR = 1.16; p = 0.05). In addition, our findings suggest an inverse dose–response relationship between physical activity and occupational stress among firefighters. Physical activity appears to be inversely associated with occupational stress and serves as an important mitigating factor of occupational stress in firefighters. Further research is warranted to evaluate the potential effect of exercise interventions on occupational stress, and the overall mental health of firefighters and other occupational groups.
Oral Health Service Access in Racial/Ethnic Minority Neighborhoods: A Geospatial Analysis in Washington, DC, USA
Authors: Liu Meirong , Kao Dennis , Gu Xinbin , Holland Whittni , Cherry-Peppers Gail
Published: April 2022

Previous studies on individual-level variables have improved our knowledge base of oral health service use. However, environmental or contextual variables are also important in understanding oral health disparities in racial and ethnic neighborhoods. Based on Bronfenbrenner’s ecological framework, this study examines the geographic availability of oral health providers in Washing-ton DC, U.S.A. Census tract-level data were drawn from the American Community Survey, joined with tract-level shapefiles, and overlaid with the geographic location of dental services throughout the city. Visual maps, descriptive statistics, and spatial lag regression models showed that census tracts with higher concentrations of African Americans were significantly farther from their nearest oral health providers (r = 0.19, p < 0.001), after controlling for neighborhood poverty rate, median age, and gender. Such findings confirm that in urban areas with highly di-verse populations such as Washington DC, racial disparities in oral health care access are signifi-cant. The study highlights that identifying neighborhoods with limited oral health care providers should be a priority in diminishing racial disparities in oral health service access. Improving access to racial/ethnic minority communities, especially African American neighborhoods, will require changes in health policies and programs, workforce development, resource allocation, community outreach, and educational programs.
Relationship between Meteorological and Air Quality Parameters and COVID-19 in Casablanca Region, Morocco
Authors: Khalis Mohamed , Toure Aly Badara , El Badisy Imad , Khomsi Kenza , Najmi Houda , Bouaddi Oumnia , Marfak Abdelghafour , Al-Delaimy Wael K. , Berraho Mohamed , Nejjari Chakib
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between meteorological parameters, air quality and daily COVID-19 transmission in Morocco. We collected daily data of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Casablanca region, as well as meteorological parameters (average temperature, wind, relative humidity, precipitation, duration of insolation) and air quality parameters (CO, NO2, 03, SO2, PM10) during the period of 2 March 2020, to 31 December 2020. The General Additive Model (GAM) was used to assess the impact of these parameters on daily cases of COVID-19. A total of 172,746 confirmed cases were reported in the study period. Positive associations were observed between COVID-19 and wind above 20 m/s and humidity above 80%. However, temperatures above 25° were negatively associated with daily cases of COVID-19. PM10 and O3 had a positive effect on the increase in the number of daily confirmed COVID-19 cases, while precipitation had a borderline effect below 25 mm and a negative effect above this value. The findings in this study suggest that significant associations exist between meteorological factors, air quality pollution (PM10) and the transmission of COVID-19. Our findings may help public health authorities better control the spread of COVID-19.
Use of Health Services and Rehabilitation before and after the Beginning of Long-Term Sickness Absence—Comparing the Use by Employment and Disability Pension Transition after the Sickness Absence in Finland
Authors: Perhoniemi Riku , Blomgren Jenni
Published: April 2022

The objective of the study was to follow the health care and rehabilitation use before, during and after long-term sickness absence (LTSA), and to compare the use by post-LTSA labour market situation in terms of disability pension and employment. Individuals aged 18–58 with a ≥30-day LTSA spell in 2015 (N = 2427) were included from the total population of the city of Oulu, Finland. Register data included LTSA spells, outpatient health care visits, inpatient care spells and rehabilitation spells, disability pensions (DP), employment dates, and demographic, socioeconomic and disability-related covariates. The study population was followed for one year before, and three years after the start of LTSA. Negative binomial regression models were utilized to examine covariate-adjusted use of the three service types and group differences. The use of outpatient health care peaked at the start of the LTSA spell, and adjusted for covariates, the height of the peak was similar regardless of post-LTSA labour market situation. Adjusted for covariates, those who transferred to permanent DP after an LTSA used more outpatient (predicted mean 4.87 for attendance days quarterly, 95% CI 4.36–5.38) and inpatient (predicted mean 84 days quarterly, 95% CI 0.62–1.06) health care than others during three years after the start of LTSA. Individuals not employed after an LTSA showed the highest and increasing level of rehabilitation use. The results indicate that Individuals returning to employment after an LTSA are provided with relatively high amount of early outpatient care, possibly aiding the return. For individuals not employed after an LTSA, rehabilitation is used quite frequently but rather late in the disability process. The frequent use of health care among future disability pensioners is consistent with their increasing health problems leading to retirement.
Introduction to the Special Issue “Emerging Trends in Combustible Tobacco and Vaping Product Use”
Authors: Dunbar Michael S. , Tucker Joan S.
Published: April 2022

Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable death and disease worldwide [...]
Cognitive–Emotional Aspects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in the Context of Female Genital Mutilation
Authors: Wulfes Nele , von Fritschen Uwe , Strunz Cornelia , Kröhl Nadine , Scherer Roland , Kröger Christoph
Published: April 2022

Around 200 million women and girls worldwide are affected by female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). FGM/C is a procedure that harms or alters the external female genitals for non-medical reasons, and is usually performed on children. Often, this procedure leads to severe consequences for the women’s physical and mental health. In a cross-sectional sample of 112 women seeking medical counseling, physical and mental health characteristics associated with FGM/C were examined and possible predictors for the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in women affected by FGM/C were identified. A total of 55.4% (n = 66) of the women reported symptom levels of probable PTSD. Predictors for higher PTSD symptomology were an older age at the time of the FGM/C procedure, feelings of guilt and the centrality of the event in the woman’s life. Thus, cognitive–emotional processing was found to play an important role in the emergence of PTSD in women suffering from FGM/C. However, interventions taking into consideration these characteristics are mostly lacking and need to be investigated further in the context of FGM/C.
Oral Health of Elderly People in Institutionalized Care and Three-Month Rehabilitation Programme in Southern Poland: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Michalak Piotr , Polak-Szlósarczyk Paulina , Dyduch-Dudek Wioletta , Zarzecka-Francica Elżbieta , Styrna Maria , Czekaj Łukasz , Zarzecka Joanna
Published: April 2022

Demographic ageing is a global growing process and the quality of ageing is an important parameter in this process. The aim of the study was to analyse the distribution of remaining dentition in relation to oral hygiene indicators among elderly people remaining in institutional care and those who participated in a 3-month rehabilitation program, aimed at increasing time of independent functioning, in southern Poland. The patients underwent a questionnaire and clinical examination. An analysis of missing teeth was performed, plaque index, and gingival index were measured. Residents of the Municipal Health Centre for Older and Dependent People (n = 50) had a higher incidence of missing teeth in the maxilla (88.4%), mandible (77.6%), as well as in the maxilla and mandible combined (83%) than residents of the Daily Medical Care House (n = 30). The distribution of the remaining teeth, in both groups, corresponds to the outlets of the large salivary glands. The group of 53.8% of patients with dry mouth had PI scored 3. Residents with dry mouth were more likely to have plaque deposits and gingival inflammation. It is necessary to develop and implement an oral care program for patients with reduced saliva secretion, with a particular focus on dependents.
Bullied Because of Their Teeth: Evidence from a Longitudinal Study on the Impact of Oral Health on Bullying Victimization among Australian Indigenous Children
Authors: Islam Md Irteja , Chadwick Verity , Esgin Tuguy , Martiniuk Alexandra
Published: April 2022

Making life better for Indigenous peoples is a global priority. Although bullying and oral health have always been a topic of concern, there is limited information regarding the impact of this problem on the general population, with no evidence in this regard among the Australian Indigenous population. Thus, we aimed to quantify the relationship between bullying victimization and oral health problems by remoteness among 766 Australian Indigenous children aged between 10–15-years using data from the LSIC study. Bivariate and multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression analyses were employed. Findings indicated children self-reported bullying more than parents reported their children were being bullied (44% vs. 33.6%), with a higher percentage from rural/remote areas than urban areas. Parents reported that oral health problems increased the probability (OR 2.20, p < 0.05) of being bullied, in Indigenous children living in urban areas. Racial discrimination, lower level of parental education and poor child oral hygiene increase the risk of bullying victimization. Parental happiness with life and a safe community were associated with a lower risk of bullying. Dental problems are linked with Australian Indigenous children experiencing bullying victimization. Cultural resilience and eliminating discrimination may be two modifiable paths to ameliorating health issues associated with bullying in the Australian Indigenous community.
Knowledge about the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease among Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Visiting the Outpatient Clinics at Tertiary Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alduraywish Shatha A. , Aldakheel Fahad M. , Azizalrahman Lojain A. , Alzaid Lujain T. , Alqahtani Shouq S. , Alhussein Sara H. , Almutairi Atheer M.
Published: April 2022

Background: One of the primary goals of diabetes management is to prevent cardiovascular events. The rate of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is significantly high in the diabetic population. Inadequate knowledge of CVDs risk in diabetes may result in the failure of its early prevention, causing increased morbidity and mortality. The objectives of this study were to assess the CVD risk knowledge and determine the predictors of the knowledge among adults with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the study objectives. Convenience sampling was used to recruit adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) who visited the King Saud University Medical City (KSUMC) outpatient clinics. Data were collected using the Heart Disease Fact Questionnaire. SPSS software (version 24.0) was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 383 patients were recruited. The level of CVD risk knowledge was high among all participants (19.04 ± 3.47). There were significant differences in knowledge scores between different groups, including age (p = 0.01), marital status (p = 0.01), and type of residence (p = 0.04). Participants who were older than 40 years, married, and lived in traditional houses had higher knowledge scores. Conclusion: The study findings indicated a high level of CVD risk knowledge in our study population. The presence of multidisciplinary intensive education programmes targeting type 2 DM patients, such as that conducted at KSUMC, might be responsible for the higher levels of knowledge among our study population. Thus, increasing the efforts towards the education of patients will improve the level of knowledge, including CVD risk knowledge.
Effects of Changes in Seasonal Weather Patterns on the Subjective Well-Being in Patients with CAD Enrolled in Cardiac Rehabilitation
Authors: Martinaitiene Dalia , Raskauskiene Nijole
Published: April 2022

Objective: We examined whether seasonal and monthly variations exist in the subjective well-being of weather-sensitive patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) during cardiac rehabilitation. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 865 patients (30% female, age 60 ± 9) were recruited within 2–3 weeks of treatment for acute coronary syndrome and during cardiac rehabilitation. The patients completed the Palanga self-assessment diary for weather sensitivity (PSAD-WS) daily, for an average of 15.5 days. PSAD-WS is an 11-item (general) three-factor (psychological, cardiac, and physical symptoms) questionnaire used to assess weather sensitivity in CAD patients. Weather data were recorded using the weather station “Vantage Pro2 Plus”. Continuous data were recorded eight times each day for the weather parameters and the averages of the data were linked to the respondents’ same-day diary results. Results: Weather-sensitive (WS) patients were found to be more sensitive to seasonal changes than patients who were not WS, and they were more likely to experience psychological symptoms. August (summer), December (winter), and March (spring) had the highest numbers of cardiac symptoms (all p < 0.001). In summary, peaks of symptoms appeared more frequently during the transition from one season to the next. Conclusion: This study extends the knowledge about the impact of atmospheric variables on the general well-being of weather-sensitive CAD patients during cardiac rehabilitation.