bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production and Characterization of Gelatin Biomaterials Based on Agave Microfibers and Bentonite as Reinforcements
Authors: Ruiz-Martínez Isidra Guadalupe , Rodrigue Denis , Arenas-Ocampo Martha Lucía , Camacho-Díaz Brenda Hildeliza , Avila-Reyes Sandra Victoria , Solorza-Feria Javier
Published: May 2022

The objective of this work was to obtain biomaterials as gelatin films or biofilms produced by casting, reinforced with a microfiber (MF) from Agave angustifolia Haw bagasse and bentonite (BN) nanoparticles and evaluate the effect of such reinforcements at different concentrations. Agave microfibers were obtained by a non-abrasive chemical method. Three formulations based on gelatin with glycerol were reinforced with microfiber, bentonite and both materials with 1.5, 3.5 and 5.5% w/w solids content. Physicochemical properties were determined using SEM and FTIR, thickness, soluble matter and moisture. The XRD, barrier, mechanical and thermal properties were measured. The films’ micrographs showed agglomerations on the surface. Interactions between its functional groups were found. The solubility increased when the MF concentration increased. The thickness of the films was between 60 and 110 μm. The crystallinity ranged from 23 to 86%. The films with both MF and BN and 3.5% w/w solids had the lowest barrier properties, while the film with 5.5% w/w solids showed the highest mechanical properties, being thermally resistant. Overall, Agave microfibers together with bentonite were able to improve some of the films’ properties, but optimized mixing conditions had to be used to achieve good particle dispersion within the gelatin matrix to improve its final properties. Such materials might have the potential to be used as food packaging.
Advances in Time Series Forecasting Development for Power Systems’ Operation with MLOps
Authors: Gürses-Tran Gonca , Monti Antonello
Published: May 2022

Forecast developers predominantly assess residuals and error statistics when tuning the targeted model’s quality. With that, eventual cost or rewards of the underlying business application are typically not considered in the model development phase. The analysis of the power system wholesale market allows us to translate a time series forecast method’s quality to its respective business value. For instance, near real-time capacity procurement takes place in the wholesale market, which is subject to complex interrelations of system operators’ grid activities and balancing parties’ scheduling behavior. Such forecasting tasks can hardly be solved with model-driven approaches because of the large solution space and non-convexity of the optimization problem. Thus, we generate load forecasts by means of a data-driven based forecasting tool ProLoaF, which we benchmark with state-of-the-art baseline models and the auto-machine learning models auto.arima and Facebook Prophet.
Finite Time Stability of Fractional Order Systems of Neutral Type
Authors: Ben Makhlouf Abdellatif , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: May 2022

This work deals with a new finite time stability (FTS) of neutral fractional order systems with time delay (NFOTSs). In light of this, FTSs of NFOTSs are demonstrated in the literature using the Gronwall inequality. The innovative aspect of our proposed study is the application of fixed point theory to show the FTS of NFOTSs. Finally, using two examples, the theoretical contributions are confirmed and substantiated.
On a Nonlinear Fractional Langevin Equation of Two Fractional Orders with a Multiplicative Noise
Authors: Omaba McSylvester , Nwaeze Eze
Published: May 2022

We consider a stochastic nonlinear fractional Langevin equation of two fractional orders Dβ(Dα+γ)ψ(t)=λϑ(t,ψ(t))w˙(t),0<t≤1. Given some suitable conditions on the above parameters, we prove the existence and uniqueness of the mild solution to the initial value problem for the stochastic nonlinear fractional Langevin equation using Banach fixed-point theorem (Contraction mapping theorem). The upper bound estimate for the second moment of the mild solution is given, which shows exponential growth in time t at a precise rate of 3c1expc3t2(α+β)−1+c4t2α−1 on the parameters α>1 and α+β>1 for some positive constants c1,c3 and c4.
The Sharp Bounds of Hankel Determinants for the Families of Three-Leaf-Type Analytic Functions
Authors: Arif Muhammad , Barukab Omar Mohammed , Afzal Khan Sher , Abbas Muhammad
Published: May 2022

The theory of univalent functions has shown strong significance in the field of mathematics. It is such a vast and fully applied topic that its applications exist in nearly every field of applied sciences such as nonlinear integrable system theory, fluid dynamics, modern mathematical physics, the theory of partial differential equations, engineering, and electronics. In our present investigation, two subfamilies of starlike and bounded turning functions associated with a three-leaf-shaped domain were considered. These classes are denoted by BT3l and S3l*, respectively. For the class BT3l, we study various coefficient type problems such as the first four initial coefficients, the Fekete–Szegö and Zalcman type inequalities and the third-order Hankel determinant. Furthermore, the existing third-order Hankel determinant bounds for the second class will be improved here. All the results that we are going to prove are sharp.
Co-Solvent Assisted Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Algal Biomass and Biocrude Upgrading
Authors: Jena Umakanta , Eboibi Blessing E. , Das K. C.
Published: May 2022

This study reports the hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of microalgae Spirulina platenesis in the presence of alcohol or formic acid co-solvents. HTL runs are performed in a 1.8-L batch reactor at 300 °C using an alcohol (methanol and ethanol) or formic acid co-solvent. Consequently, hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of resultant algal biocrude is performed at 350 °C for 2 h under high hydrogen pressure (~725 psi) using the Ru/C catalyst. The HTL results are compared with the control HTL run performed in water only. The results of the study show that the addition of co-solvents leads to a 30–63% increased biocrude yield over the control HTL run. Formic acid results in a 59.0% yield of biocrude, the highest amongst all co-solvents tested. Resultant biocrudes from formic acid-assisted and ethanol-assisted HTL runs have 21.6% and 3.8–11.0% higher energy content, respectively, than that of the control run. However, that of the methanol-assisted HTL results in biocrude with 4.2–9.0% lower energy density. Viscosity of biocrude from methanol- or ethanol-assisted HTL is higher than the control HTL but formic acid-assisted HTL results in a less viscous biocrude product. In addition, the HDO study leads to a 40.6% yield of upgraded oil, which is characterized by a higher net energy content and lower O/C and N/C ratios when compared to the initial HTL biocrude.
The History of Early Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Ben-Dror Judith , Shalamov Michal , Sonnenblick Amir
Published: May 2022

“The story of cancer is the story of human ingenuity, resilience, and perseverance, but also of hubris, paternalism, and misperception” (Siddhartha Mukherjee). The present review discusses the evolution of early breast cancer (BC) treatment philosophy in the last 50 years and the shift from an emphasis on local therapy to an emphasis on systemic precision treatment options.
Does the Quality of Postpartum Hemorrhage Local Protocols Improve the Identification and Management of Blood Loss after Vaginal Deliveries? A Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Vendittelli Françoise , Barasinski Chloé , Rivière Olivier , Da Costa Correia Caroline , Crenn-Hébert Catherine , Dreyfus Michel , Legrand Anne , Gerbaud Laurent
Published: May 2022

Substandard care, which can result from a delayed recognition of the severity of blood loss, can increase maternal morbidity. Our objectives were to assess the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and of second-line procedures in maternity units according to the quality of their PPH protocol. We used a mixed design, a prospective cohort (3442 women with PPH after vaginal delivery; February–July 2011), and an audit of the written protocols (177 French maternity units; September 2010–June 2011). A quality score was calculated for the protocol of each unit. Maternity units were classified into three categories according to this score: category 1 (total score: 0–8), category 2 (9–12.5), and category 3 (>12.5). The PPH incidence (>500 mL) was 3.2%, 3.3% and 4.6% among maternity units in categories 1, 2 and 3, respectively (p < 0.0001). The incidence of severe maternal morbidity (surgery and/or artery embolization and/or blood transfusion) was higher among maternity units in category 1 (54.8%; 95% CI: 51.9, 57.7) than in either category 2 (50.1%; 95% CI: 47.8, 52.5) or 3 (38.0%; 95% CI: 33.8, 42.4]) (p < 0.0001). The risks of severe maternal morbidity were lower for category 3 than category 1 and 2 (respectively, adjusted RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.60–0.86 and 0.77, 95% CI 0.68–0.87). Finally, maternity units with higher scores identified PPH better and used fewer curative second-line procedures.
The World’s Oldest Book Printed by Movable Metal Type in Korea in 1239: The Song of Enlightenment
Authors: Yoo Woo Sik
Published: May 2022

Four nearly identical versions of an ancient printed book, the Song of Enlightenment with Commentaries by Buddhist Monk Nammyeong Cheon (南明泉和尙頌證道歌), were examined by image analysis and comparisons to identify whether they are the identical versions or different versions in terms of printing techniques. Two out of four versions have been designated as Korean treasures and the other two versions are currently being examined for designation as Korean cultural properties. One of two Korean treasures has been spotlighted as a potential movable metal type printing book prior to the Jikji printed in 1377, as recognized by the UNESCO Memory of the World program. Heated debates over the printing techniques and printing dates have overwhelmed Korean historians for more than 50 years. Due to the subjective nature of the evaluation, it was hard to reach a unanimous decision. Finding objective new evidence is needed to end this heated debate. We found very clear evidence showing that one version is significantly different from the others and was likely printed using movable metal type in September 1239. It is the oldest extant book printed using metal type, 138 years prior to the printing date of Jikji.
An Identification and Expression Analysis of the ABCG Genes Related to Benzaldehyde Transportation among Three Prunus Species
Authors: Hao Ruijie , Chang Jun , Qiu Chen , Yang Shuting
Published: May 2022

The plants of Prunus mostly bloom in early spring, and the flowers of various species possess their individual floral scent characteristics; Prunus mume, especially, can volatilize a large amount of benzenoid compounds into the air during the flowering phase. In order to elucidate the molecular basis of the differences in the volatile capacity of aromatic substances among Prunus flowers, the endogenous and the headspace volatile components and the expression of ABCG genes were studied among P. mume, P. armeniaca, and P. persica. We detected the floral components in the three species by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and we found that benzaldehyde was the key component. Meanwhile, the volatilization efficiency of benzaldehyde in P. mume and P. armeniaca were much higher than that in P. persica. Furthermore, 130, 135, and 133 ABC family members from P. mume, P. armeniaca, and P. persica were identified, respectively. WGCNA analysis demonstrated that candidate ABCG genes were positively correlated with benzaldehyde volatilization efficiency. Moreover, quantitative Real-time PCR indicated that ABCG17 was more likely to be involved in the transmembrane transport of benzaldehyde. This study aimed to provide a theoretical basis for elucidating the transmembrane transport of benzaldehyde and to further the valuable information for fragrant flower breeding in Prunus.
The Implication of the First Wave of COVID-19 on Mental Health: Results from a Portuguese Sample
Authors: Quintas Jorge , Guerreiro Ana , de Carvalho Maria João Leote , Duarte Vera , Pedro Ana Rita , Gama Ana Filipa , Keygnaert Inês , Dias Sónia
Published: May 2022

The social conditions created by the COVID-19 pandemic had a great potential to affect the mental health of individuals. Meta-analyses indicate a rise in these problems in these periods among general populations, patients and health professionals, even with substantial heterogeneous results. This paper examines mental health impacts specifically during the first wave of COVID-19. An online survey was conducted with a Portuguese convenience sample (N = 1.062) comprising questions about substance use, perceived stress, post-traumatic stress disorder and self-damage behaviors. The results concerning substance use show an extensive use of medication to sleep or calm down, especially among women and older respondents, a small percentage of alcohol consumers with a high pattern of use and less frequent cannabis consumption, even with a quarter of users who began only in the COVID-19 period. The rates of perceived stress and PTSD were higher compared with international prevalence estimations during the pandemic conditions. Both correlated measures were worse for women and young people. Another problematic issue was the rate of suicidal ideation, with a relevant proportion of starters during this period. These data reinforce the need to promote access to mental health services.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Total and Cause-Specific Mortality in Pavia, Northern Italy
Authors: Perotti Pietro , Bertuccio Paola , Cacitti Stefano , Deandrea Silvia , Boschetti Lorenza , Dalle Carbonare Simona , Marguati Stefano , Migliazza Simona , Porzio Eleonora , Riboli Simona , Cadum Ennio , Cecconami Lorella , Odone Anna
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic had an unfavorable impact on overall mortality in Italy, with the strongest consequences in northern Italy. Scant data are available on cause-specific mortality. This study aims at investigating the impact of the pandemic on the overall and cause-specific mortality in one province in northern Italy, Pavia. We linked individual-level administrative data (i.e., death certification and population data) from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) in Pavia province between 2015 and 2020. We computed age-standardized mortality rates (Italian population 2011) by cause, sex, and calendar year, and computed the rate ratio and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals to compare rates in 2020 versus 2015–2019. The 2020 excess total mortality in Pavia was 24% in men and 25% in women, reaching rates of 1272.6/100,000 and 1304.4/100,000, respectively. Significant excesses were found for infectious and parasitic diseases, excluding COVID-19 (about +30% in both sexes); respiratory system diseases (44% in men; 30% in women); and dementia and Alzheimer’s disease among men (24%). Reductions were reported for neoplasms (−14% in men); cerebrovascular diseases (−25% in men); and ischemic diseases (−13% in women), but also for transport accidents in men. COVID-19 was the third cause of death in both sexes with rates of 274.9/100,000 men (859 total deaths) and 213.9/100,000 women (758 total deaths). Excess mortality in Pavia was higher than Italy but lower than Lombardy. Increases in mortality from causes related to infectious and respiratory diseases can likely be explained by underdiagnosed deaths from COVID-19.
The Impact of Hyper-Acute Inflammatory Response on Stress Adaptation and Psychological Symptoms of COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Papava Ion , Dehelean Liana , Romosan Radu Stefan , Bondrescu Mariana , Dimeny Cristian Zoltan , Domuta Eugenia Maria , Bratosin Felix , Bogdan Iulia , Grigoras Mirela Loredana , Tigmeanu Codruta Victoria , Gherman Angelica , Marincu Iosif
Published: May 2022

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection induces a significant inflammatory response that are amplified by persistent stress. The pathophysiology of mental illnesses is explored in terms of inflammatory processes. Thus, anxious, depressed, or psychotic episodes may occur as a result of metabolic and immunological imbalances, as a direct result of their effect on the central nervous system, or as a side effect of the COVID-19 medication protocols. As such, the primary objective of this research is to establish if the psychological profiles of COVID-19 patients change substantially according to illness severity. The secondary objective is to determine if particular biological inflammatory indicators are associated with anxiety, sadness, psychoticism, and paranoid ideation. A cross-sectional study was performed on 90 hospitalized patients admitted during a 3-month period in the COVID-19 unit. All patients received the COPE-60 and SCL-90R questionnaires. Clinical and paraclinical data were collected and the information was classified according to the severity of COVID-19.The hyper-acute inflammation encountered in patients with severe COVID-19 infection characterized 80.0% of patients using disengagement coping methods, significantly more than patients with mild or moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection severity (p-value = 0.012), respectively, 73.3% severe COVID-19 patients engaging in emotion-focused coping strategies based on the COPE-60 scale (p-value = 0.037). Additionally, it was determined that negative coping mechanisms (disengagement) and emotion-focused methods are independent risk factors for developing psychoticism symptoms following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, based on the SCL-90 questionnaire (OR = 2.07; CI = 1.44–3.01), respectively (OR = 2.92; CI = 1.44–3.01). Elevated white blood cells and monocytes and inflammatory markers, such as fibrinogen, procalcitonin, IL-6, and D-dimers, were also identified as risk factors for psychoticism symptoms in multivariate analysis. It is particularly important to consider the constant mental-state evaluation in patients with severe COVID-19 that might benefit from early intervention before psychotic symptoms onset.
The “Empty-Goal” Rule Change from the Perspective of International-Level Team Handball Goalkeepers
Authors: Iusepolsky Reuven , Morgulev Elia , Zach Sima
Published: May 2022

The 2016 “empty-goal” rule change in team handball allowed for swift goalkeeper-player substitutions, which opened the door to a variety of tactical solutions that could not be implemented prior to the change. This change is one of many rule changes that have taken place in ball games in general and in handball in particular that were aimed to improve the competition and make gameplay more interesting. Previous literature shows that more often than not, such rule changes have led to unforeseen and undesired effects on players’ and teams’ behavior and performance. The aim of the current study was to consider the empty-goal rule from the goalkeeper’s perspective, as their offense–defense game routine was drastically transformed following the introduction of this new rule. Results of a survey among 95 professional goalkeepers, 80 of whom participated in international matches, revealed that the keepers’ level of confidence in empty-goal situations is moderate to high, that empty goal is rarely practiced more than once a week, and that less experienced goalkeepers are more positive regarding this rule change. Additionally, we found that the amount of empty-goal practice is positively related to the approval of the empty-goal rule among goalkeepers.
Emotion Recognition in Preterm and Full-Term School-Age Children
Authors: Della Longa Letizia , Nosarti Chiara , Farroni Teresa
Published: May 2022

Children born preterm (<37 weeks’ gestation) show a specific vulnerability for socio-emotional difficulties, which may lead to an increased likelihood of developing behavioral and psychiatric problems in adolescence and adulthood. The accurate decoding of emotional signals from faces represents a fundamental prerequisite for early social interactions, allowing children to derive information about others’ feelings and intentions. The present study aims to explore possible differences between preterm and full-term children in the ability to detect emotional expressions, as well as possible relationships between this ability and socio-emotional skills and problem behaviors during everyday activities. We assessed 55 school-age children (n = 34 preterm and n = 21 full-term) with a cognitive battery that ensured comparable cognitive abilities between the two groups. Moreover, children were asked to identify emotional expressions from pictures of peers’ faces (Emotion Recognition Task). Finally, children’s emotional, social and behavioral outcomes were assessed with parent-reported questionnaires. The results revealed that preterm children were less accurate than full-term children in detecting positive emotional expressions and they showed poorer social and behavioral outcomes. Notably, correlational analyses showed a relationship between the ability to recognize emotional expressions and socio-emotional functioning. The present study highlights that early difficulties in decoding emotional signals from faces may be critically linked to emotional and behavioral regulation problems, with important implications for the development of social skills and effective interpersonal interactions.
Climate Changes Exacerbate the Spread of Ixodes ricinus and the Occurrence of Lyme Borreliosis and Tick-Borne Encephalitis in Europe—How Climate Models Are Used as a Risk Assessment Approach for Tick-Borne Diseases
Authors: Voyiatzaki Chrysa , Papailia Sevastiani I. , Venetikou Maria S. , Pouris John , Tsoumani Maria E. , Papageorgiou Effie G.
Published: May 2022

Climate change has influenced the transmission of a wide range of vector-borne diseases in Europe, which is a pressing public health challenge for the coming decades. Numerous theories have been developed in order to explain how tick-borne diseases are associated with climate change. These theories include higher proliferation rates, extended transmission season, changes in ecological balances, and climate-related migration of vectors, reservoir hosts, or human populations. Changes of the epidemiological pattern have potentially catastrophic consequences, resulting in increasing prevalence of tick-borne diseases. Thus, investigation of the relationship between climate change and tick-borne diseases is critical. In this regard, climate models that predict the ticks’ geographical distribution changes can be used as a predicting tool. The aim of this review is to provide the current evidence regarding the contribution of the climatic changes to Lyme borreliosis (LB) disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) and to present how computational models will advance our understanding of the relationship between climate change and tick-borne diseases in Europe.
A Social–Ecological Study of Perceptions and Determinants of Sexual Enhancement Drug Use among Men and Women in Ghana
Authors: Amoah Padmore Adusei , Adjei Stephen Baffour , Arthur-Holmes Francis
Published: May 2022

The use and sale of sexual enhancement drugs (particularly unapproved aphrodisiacs) have become a public health concern in Ghana and many other sub-Saharan African countries. While most studies have examined this phenomenon from the level of individual perspectives, this study investigates the multi-dimensional and multi-level factors (e.g., individual characteristics and behaviours, interpersonal factors, community norms and practices, institutional and public policy factors) that influence attitudes, perceptions, and use of aphrodisiacs among men and women in Ghana. Using a concurrent mixed-method design, we derived the data from a semi-structured interview and cross-sectional survey conducted across five administrative regions in Ghana. Interpretative phenomenological analysis and logistic regression techniques were used to analyse the qualitative and quantitative (survey) data, respectively. Approximately 12.6% of participants (17.6% among males and 7.2% among females) had used an aphrodisiac in the six months prior to the study. Approximately 23.4% of the participants had more than one partner during the same period. Among men, being religious (B = −0.238, p < 0.05) and having multiple sexual partners (B = 0.481, p < 0.01) were positively associated with the use of aphrodisiacs. For women, being employed (B = −1.539, p < 0.01), engaging in physical activities (exercising) (B = −0.658, p < 0.05), having good health (B = 0.869, p < 0.05), having multiple sexual partners (B = 1.191, p < 0.01), and taking alcohol (B = 1.041, p < 0.01) were associated with use of aphrodisiacs. Although many participants had used aphrodisiacs, women, in particular, held unfavourable views about the drugs due to perceived negative health implications for themselves and their partners. The findings also show that community-level factors (e.g., social norms and expectations), interpersonal factors (e.g., expectations of partners and friends), public policy (e.g., drug-related regulations), and organisational/institutional factors (e.g., health system arrangements about access and use of drugs) were critical to the sale and use of aphrodisiacs among both men and women in Ghana. A multi-level analysis of the use of sexual enhancement drugs among men and women is crucial to formulating social and public health policies that aim to improve public knowledge of these drugs, reduce uncontrolled production, and protect population health and well-being.
Research on Diet and Human Health
Authors: López-Gil José Francisco , Tárraga-López Pedro Juan
Published: May 2022

One of the major public health challenges is the global burden and threat of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) [...]
Part of the Game? Exploring the Prevalence and Normalization of Gambling in Belgian Sports Clubs
Authors: Constandt Bram , Rosiers Johan , Moernaut Jolien , Van Der Hoeven Stef , Willem Annick
Published: May 2022

Gambling and sports are entangled in a close relationship. However, little remains known about gambling behaviors and perceptions in sports. Drawing on normalization theory, this study explores the prevalence and predictors of problem gambling as well as the normalization of gambling (including its availability and accessibility, prevalence, and socio-cultural accommodation) in sports clubs. A cross-sectional study design was implemented, based on an online survey completed by 817 Belgian sports club actors. This survey consisted of the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) and questions about personal and socio-cultural factors regarding gambling. Data were analyzed with SPSS 26 software, using descriptive statistics and an ordinal logistic regression analysis. These analyses exposed being male, being aged 26–35 years old, and being involved in football (soccer) as factors that might be linked with higher levels of problem gambling in sports. Furthermore, sports betting is especially shown to be normalized in sports clubs given its prevalence, and its frequently organized and discussed character. Moreover, respondents disclosed a lack of formal rules (96%) and education initiatives (98.7%) on gambling in their sports club. Given the indicated support for gambling regulations and educational measures, this study may inform sports organizations about how to help denormalize gambling.
Diet Quality, Dieting, Attitudes and Nutrition Knowledge: Their Relationship in Polish Young Adults—A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jezewska-Zychowicz Marzena , Plichta Marta
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between diet quality, dieting, nutrition knowledge and attitudes in a group of Polish young adults. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2018 amongst 638 students of food and nutrition-related majors. Based on the frequency of consumption of 24 food groups, the “Pro-Healthy Diet Index” (pHDI) and “Non-Healthy Diet Index” (nHDI) were calculated. To assess the nutrition knowledge, the “GAROTA” test was used. The k-means clustering method was used to identify clusters-attitudes towards food and nutrition. The relationships between pHDI and nHDI indices, dieting, nutrition knowledge (NK), and attitudes towards food and nutrition were verified, using multiple linear regression analysis. The results confirmed some relationships between the variables. Higher nHDI characterized males (p < 0.0001) and people with more unfavorable attitudes towards food and nutrition (p < 0.0001), and those not using a diet (p < 0.0001). Higher nutrition knowledge (p < 0.0001) and higher BMI (p = 0.0370) were correlated with lower nHDI. Higher pHDI characterized people with more favorable attitudes (p < 0.0001) and those using a diet (p = 0.0002). Nutrition knowledge showed an adverse association with nHDI (r = −0.172, p < 0.05) and no association with pHDI. Thus, declarative nutrition knowledge does not seem to be a good indicator of healthy dietary behavior. Nutrition education programs that concentrate only on knowledge of facts, and neglect the development of favorable attitudes towards food and nutrition, may not be efficient enough to develop adequate dietary behavior of students.
Willingness to Pay for Implementation of an Environmentally Friendly Pharmaceutical Policy in Finland—A Discrete Choice Experiment Study
Authors: Alajärvi Lasse , Lehtimäki Aku-Ville , Timonen Johanna , Martikainen Janne
Published: May 2022

The use of pharmaceuticals is their main pathway to the environment, making the public a major stakeholder in environmentally friendly pharmaceutical policies, including an environmental classification system for medicines. We studied the Finnish adult population’s (n = 2030) preferences and willingness to pay (WTP) for an environmentally friendly pharmaceutical policy by means of an online survey employing a discrete choice experiment (DCE). We also studied the relative importance of the policy attributes, namely, the environmental impact, geographical scope, available information about the environmental impact of a pharmaceutical, and the effect of the respondents’ general environmental attitudes on the WTP. The total annual WTP of the Finnish adult population ranges from 37 million to 134 million euros, depending on the attribute levels. Moreover, the environmental attitude of a respondent had a significant impact on the WTP. Generally, the environmental impact of the policy was the most important attribute, the geographical scope of the policy the second, and information about the environmental impact of pharmaceuticals was the third most important attribute. However, the most environmentally friendly respondents preferred information as the second important attribute. This study provides insights into the environmental valuations of the public to be used in preparing new pharmaceutical policy measures.
Utilization of Postnatal Care Services among Thai Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Results of a Web-Based Survey
Authors: Aye Yin Min , Kim Soo Jung , Suriyawongpaisal Wichukorn , Hong Seo Ah , Chang Yan-Shing
Published: May 2022

The postnatal period is an underserved aspect of maternity care, potentially worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to identify postnatal care (PNC) use by health personnel within the 42 days of childbirth among postpartum mothers in Thailand. This web-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2021 (n = 840). Multiple binary and ordinal logistic regressions were conducted to predict three outcome variables (≥2 times, ≥3 times, or level of PNC use). Women who received PNC were in low numbers (≥2: 30.7% and (≥3: 12.9%), while 54.4% of women reported no barriers to access PNC, and 31.9% reported barriers, including worries over COVID-19 infection, followed by movement restrictions imposed by the government (11.7%) and the closure of healthcare centers (10%). Women working in a self-employed capacity, living in urban areas, and undergoing a Caesarean section with no/less worry about COVID-19 infection were more likely to utilize postnatal care (≥2 or number of PNC). This study provides timely information, revealing that a relatively low percentage of postpartum women received PNC, particularly among the socially deprived group. Since the fear of COVID infection is listed as a major barrier, the provision of PNC services, including a telehealth program should be considered.
The Comparative Effect of Reduced Mindfulness-Based Stress on Heart Rate Variability among Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Shu-Jung , Chang Yun-Chen , Hu Wen-Yu , Chang Yuh-Ming , Lo Chi
Published: May 2022

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a powerful tool for observing interactions between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. This study evaluated HRV during a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program among women with breast cancer after receiving treatment. A quasi-experimental, nonrandomized design was used. Patients were allocated to usual care (n = 25) and MBSR (n = 25) groups. HRV was measured using recognized methods to assess the autonomic nervous system. Two-way ANOVA and t-tests were used to examine HRV changes between and within groups, respectively. A significant interaction effect of time with group was observed on heart rate (F (1, 96) = 4.92, p = 0.029, η2 = 0.049). A significant difference was also observed within the MBSR group preintervention and postintervention with regard to heart rate (t (24) = −3.80, p = 0.001), standard deviation of the RR interval (t (24) = 5.40, p < 0.001), root-mean-square difference in the RR interval (t (24) = 2.23, p = 0.035), and high-frequency power (t (24) = 7.73, p < 0.001). Large effect sizes for heart rate and SDNN of 0.94 and 0.85, respectively, were observed between the MBSR and usual care groups. This study provides preliminary evidence that an MBSR program may be clinically useful for facilitating parasympathetic activity associated with feelings of relaxation in treated breast cancer survivors.
Antiosteoporotic Nanohydroxyapatite Zoledronate Scaffold Seeded with Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for Bone Regeneration: A 3D In Vitro Model
Authors: Tschon Matilde , Boanini Elisa , Sartori Maria , Salamanna Francesca , Panzavolta Silvia , Bigi Adriana , Fini Milena
Published: May 2022

Background: Bisphosphonates are widely employed drugs for the treatment of pathologies with high bone resorption, such as osteoporosis, and display a great affinity for calcium ions and apatitic substrates. Here, we aimed to investigate the potentiality of zoledronate functionalized hydroxyapatite nanocrystals (HAZOL) to promote bone regeneration by stimulating adhesion, viability, metabolic activity and osteogenic commitment of human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs). Methods: we adopted an advanced three-dimensional (3D) in vitro fracture healing model to study porous scaffolds: hMSCs were seeded onto the scaffolds that, after three days, were cut in halves and unseeded scaffolds were placed between the two halves. Scaffold characterization by X-ray diffraction, transmission and scanning electron microscopy analyses and cell morphology, viability, osteogenic differentiation and extracellular matrix deposition were evaluated after 3, 7 and 10 days of culture. Results: Electron microscopy showed a porous and interconnected structure and a uniform cell layer spread onto scaffolds. Scaffolds were able to support cell growth and cells progressively colonized the whole inserts in absence of cytotoxic effects. Osteogenic commitment and gene expression of hMSCs were enhanced with higher expressions of ALPL, COL1A1, BGLAP, RUNX2 and Osterix genes. Conclusion: Although some limitations affect the present study (e.g., the lack of longer experimental times, of mechanical stimulus or pathological microenvironment), the obtained results with the adopted experimental setup suggested that zoledronate functionalized scaffolds (GHAZOL) might sustain not only cell proliferation, but positively influence osteogenic differentiation and activity if employed in bone fracture healing.
Relative Cation-Anion Diffusion in Alkyltriethylammonium-Based Ionic Liquids
Authors: Kruk Danuta , Masiewicz Elżbieta , Kołodziejski Karol , Markiewicz Roksana , Jurga Stefan
Published: May 2022

19F Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spin-lattice relaxation experiments have been performed for a series of ionic liquids including the same anion, bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, and cations with alkyl chains of different lengths: triethylhexylammonium, triethyloctylammonium, decyltriethylammonium, dodecyltriethylammonium, decyltriethylammonium, and hexadecyltriethylammonium. The experiments have been carried out in a frequency range of 10 kHz to 10 MHz versus temperature. A thorough analysis of the relaxation data has led to the determination of the cation–anion as a relative translation diffusion coefficient. The diffusion coefficients have been compared with the corresponding cation–cation and anion–anion diffusion coefficients, revealing a correlation in the relative translation movement of the anion and the triethylhexylammonium, triethyloctylammonium, decyltriethylammonium, and dodecyltriethylammonium cations, whereas the relative translation diffusion between the anion and the cations with the longer alkyl chains, decyltriethylammonium and hexadecyltriethylammonium, remains rather uncorrelated (correlated to a much lesser extent).
Progression and Dissemination of Pulmonary Mycobacterium Avium Infection in a Susceptible Immunocompetent Mouse Model
Authors: Rosenbloom Raymond , Gavrish Igor , Tseng Anna E. , Seidel Kerstin , Yabaji Shivraj M. , Gertje Hans P. , Huber Bertrand R. , Kramnik Igor , Crossland Nicholas A.
Published: May 2022

Pulmonary infections caused by the group of nontuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM), Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), are a growing public health concern with incidence and mortality steadily increasing globally. Granulomatous inflammation is the hallmark of MAC lung infection, yet reliable correlates of disease progression, susceptibility, and resolution are poorly defined. Unlike widely used inbred mouse strains, mice that carry the mutant allele at the genetic locus sst1 develop human-like pulmonary tuberculosis featuring well-organized caseating granulomas. We characterized pulmonary temporospatial outcomes of intranasal and left intrabronchial M. avium spp. hominissuis (M.av) induced pneumonia in B6.Sst1S mice, which carries the sst1 mutant allele. We utilized traditional semi-quantitative histomorphological evaluation, in combination with fluorescent multiplex immunohistochemistry (fmIHC), whole slide imaging, and quantitative digital image analysis. Followingintrabronchiolar infection with the laboratory M.av strain 101, the B6.Sst1S pulmonary lesions progressed 12–16 weeks post infection (wpi), with plateauing and/or resolving disease by 21 wpi. Caseating granulomas were not observed during the study. Disease progression from 12–16 wpi was associated with increased acid-fast bacilli, area of secondary granulomatous pneumonia lesions, and Arg1+ and double positive iNOS+/Arg1+ macrophages. Compared to B6 WT, at 16 wpi, B6.Sst1S lungs exhibited an increased area of acid-fast bacilli, larger secondary lesions with greater Arg1+ and double positive iNOS+/Arg1+ macrophages, and reduced T cell density. This morphomolecular analysis of histologic correlates of disease progression in B6.Sst1S could serve as a platform for assessment of medical countermeasures against NTM infection.
Neonatal Rat Glia Cultured in Physiological Normoxia for Modeling Neuropathological Conditions In Vitro
Authors: Gargas Justyna , Janowska Justyna , Ziabska Karolina , Ziemka-Nalecz Malgorzata , Sypecka Joanna
Published: May 2022

Cell culture conditions were proven to highly affect crucial biological processes like proliferation, differentiation, intercellular crosstalk, and senescence. Oxygen tension is one of the major factors influencing cell metabolism and thus, modulating cellular response to pathophysiological conditions. In this context, the presented study aimed at the development of a protocol for efficient culture of rat neonatal glial cells (microglia, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes) in oxygen concentrations relevant to the nervous tissue. The protocol allows for obtaining three major cell populations, which play crucial roles in sustaining tissue homeostasis and are known to be activated in response to a wide spectrum of external stimuli. The cells are cultured in media without supplement addition to avoid potential modulation of cell processes. The application of active biomolecules for coating culturing surfaces might be useful for mirroring physiological cell interactions with extracellular matrix components. The cell fractions can be assembled as cocultures to further evaluate investigated mechanisms, intercellular crosstalk, or cell response to tested pharmacological compounds. Applying additional procedures, like transient oxygen and glucose deprivation, allows to mimic in vitro the selected pathophysiological conditions. The presented culture system for neonatal rat glial cells is a highly useful tool for in vitro modeling selected neuropathological conditions.
MITF in Normal Melanocytes, Cutaneous and Uveal Melanoma: A Delicate Balance
Authors: Gelmi Maria Chiara , Houtzagers Laurien E. , Strub Thomas , Krossa Imène , Jager Martine J.
Published: May 2022

Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) is an important regulator of melanogenesis and melanocyte development. Although it has been studied extensively in cutaneous melanoma, the role of MITF in uveal melanoma (UM) has not been explored in much detail. We review the literature about the role of MITF in normal melanocytes, in cutaneous melanoma, and in UM. In normal melanocytes, MITF regulates melanocyte development, melanin synthesis, and melanocyte survival. The expression profile and the behaviour of MITF-expressing cells suggest that MITF promotes local proliferation and inhibits invasion, inflammation, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) transition. Loss of MITF expression leads to increased invasion and inflammation and is more prevalent in malignant cells. Cutaneous melanoma cells switch between MITF-high and MITF-low states in different phases of tumour development. In UM, MITF loss is associated with loss of BAP1 protein expression, which is a marker of poor prognosis. These data indicate a dual role for MITF in benign and malignant melanocytic cells.
Hypoxic and Hypercapnic Responses in Transgenic Murine Model of Alzheimer’s Disease Overexpressing Human AβPP: The Effects of Pretreatment with Memantine and Rivastigmine
Authors: Andrzejewski Kryspin , Jampolska Monika , Mojzych Ilona , Conde Silvia V. , Kaczyńska Katarzyna
Published: May 2022

Despite the severe respiratory problems reducing the quality of life for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients, their causes are poorly understood. We aimed to investigate hypoxic and hypercapnic respiratory responses in a transgenic mouse model of AD (AβPP V717I) overexpressing AβPP and mimicking early-onset AD. The cholinesterase inhibitor rivastigmine and the NMDA receptor antagonist memantine were used to investigate the effects of drugs, used to treat AD cognitive dysfunction, on breathing in hypoxia and hypercapnia. We found a significant increase in the respiratory response to hypercapnia and no difference in the hypoxic response in APP+ mice, compared with the control group (APP−). Memantine had no effect on respiration in either group, including responses to hypoxia and hypercapnia. Rivastigmine depressed resting ventilation and response to hypercapnia irrespective of the mice genotype. Reduction in hypoxia-augmented ventilation by rivastigmine was observed only in APP+ mice, which exhibited lower acetylcholinesterase activity in the hippocampus. Treatment with rivastigmine reduced the enzyme activity in both groups equally in the hippocampus and brainstem. The increased ventilatory response to hypercapnia in transgenic mice may indicate alterations in chemoreceptive respiratory nuclei, resulting in increased CO2 sensitivity. Rivastigmine is a potent reductant of normoxic and hypercapnic respiration in APP+ and APP− mice.
Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Induce Fibrosis and Telomere Length Alterations
Authors: Alswady-Hoff Mayes , Erdem Johanna Samulin , Aleksandersen Mona , Anmarkrud Kristine Haugen , Skare Øivind , Lin Fang-Chin , Simensen Vincent , Arnoldussen Yke Jildouw , Skaug Vidar , Ropstad Erik , Zienolddiny-Narui Shanbeh
Published: May 2022

Telomere shortening can result in cellular senescence and in increased level of genome instability, which are key events in numerous of cancer types. Despite this, few studies have focused on the effect of nanomaterial exposure on telomere length as a possible mechanism involved in nanomaterial-induced carcinogenesis. In this study, effects of exposure to multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) on telomere length were investigated in mice exposed by intrapleural injection, as well as in human lung epithelial and mesothelial cell lines. In addition, cell cycle, apoptosis, and regulation of genes involved in DNA damage repair were assessed. Exposure to MWCNT led to severe fibrosis, infiltration of inflammatory cells in pleura, and mesothelial cell hyperplasia. These histological alterations were accompanied by deregulation of genes involved in fibrosis and immune cell recruitment, as well as a significant shortening of telomeres in the pleura and the lung. Assessment of key carcinogenic mechanisms in vitro confirmed that long-term exposure to the long MWCNT led to a prominent telomere shortening in epithelial cells, which coincided with G1-phase arrest and enhanced apoptosis. Altogether, our data show that telomere shortening resulting in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis may be an important mechanism in long MWCNT-induced inflammation and fibrosis.
Influence of Cortisol on the Fibril Formation Kinetics of Aβ42 Peptide: A Multi-Technical Approach
Authors: Nucara Alessandro , Ripanti Francesca , Sennato Simona , Nisini Giacomo , De Santis Emiliano , Sefat Mahta , Carbonaro Marina , Mango Dalila , Minicozzi Velia , Carbone Marilena
Published: May 2022

Amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) aggregates are known to be correlated with pathological neurodegenerative diseases. The fibril formation process of such peptides in solution is influenced by several factors, such as the ionic strength of the buffer, concentration, pH, and presence of other molecules, just to mention a few. In this paper, we report a detailed analysis of in vitro Aβ42 fibril formation in the presence of cortisol at different relative concentrations. The thioflavin T fluorescence assay allowed us to monitor the fibril formation kinetics, while a morphological characterization of the aggregates was obtained by atomic force microscopy. Moreover, infrared absorption spectroscopy was exploited to investigate the secondary structure changes along the fibril formation path. Molecular dynamics calculations allowed us to understand the intermolecular interactions with cortisol. The combined results demonstrated the influence of cortisol on the fibril formation process: indeed, at cortisol-Aβ42 concentration ratio (ρ) close to 0.1 a faster organization of Aβ42 fragments into fibrils is promoted, while for ρ = 1 the formation of fibrils is completely inhibited.