bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Genetic Side of the Mood: A Scientometric Review of the Genetic Basis of Mood Disorders
Authors: Bonacina Giovanni , Carollo Alessandro , Esposito Gianluca
Published: January 2023

Mood disorders are highly heritable psychiatric disorders. Over the years, many genetic polymorphisms have been identified to pose a higher risk for the development of mood disorders. To overview the literature on the genetics of mood disorders, a scientometric analysis was performed on a sample of 5342 documents downloaded from Scopus. The most active countries and the most impactful documents in the field were identified. Furthermore, a total of 13 main thematic clusters emerged in the literature. From the qualitative inspection of clusters, it emerged that the research interest moved from a monogenic to a polygenic risk framework. Researchers have moved from the study of single genes in the early 1990s to conducting genome-wide association studies around 2015. In this way, genetic overlaps between mood disorders and other psychiatric conditions emerged too. Furthermore, around the 2010s, the interaction between genes and environmental factors emerged as pivotal in understanding the risk for mood disorders. The inspection of thematic clusters provides a valuable insight into the past and recent trends of research in the genetics of mood disorders and sheds light onto future lines of research.
Excluding Digenic Inheritance of PGAP2 and PGAP3 Variants in Mabry Syndrome (OMIM 239300) Patient: Phenotypic Spectrum Associated with PGAP2 Gene Variants in Hyperphosphatasia with Mental Retardation Syndrome-3 (HPMRS3)
Authors: Thompson Miles D. , Li Xueying , Spencer-Manzon Michele , Andrade Danielle M. , Murakami Yoshiko , Kinoshita Taroh , Carpenter Thomas O.
Published: January 2023

We present a case report of a child with features of hyperphosphatasia with neurologic deficit (HPMRS) or Mabry syndrome (MIM 239300) with variants of unknown significance in two post-GPI attachments to proteins genes, PGAP2 and PGAP3, that underlie HPMRS 3 and 4. Background: In addition to HPMRS 3 and 4, disruption of four phosphatidylinositol glycan (PIG) biosynthesis genes, PIGV, PIGO, PIGW and PIGY, result in HPMRS 1, 2, 5 and 6, respectively. Methods: Targeted exome panel sequencing identified homozygous variants of unknown significance (VUS) in PGAP2 c:284A>G and PGAP3 c:259G>A. To assay the pathogenicity of these variants, we conducted a rescue assay in PGAP2 and PGAP3 deficient CHO cell lines. Results: Using a strong (pME) promoter, the PGAP2 variant did not rescue activity in CHO cells and the protein was not detected. Flow cytometric analysis showed that CD59 and CD55 expression on the PGAP2 deficient cell line was not restored by variant PGAP2. By contrast, activity of the PGAP3 variant was similar to wild-type. Conclusions: For this patient with Mabry syndrome, the phenotype is likely to be predominantly HPMRS3: resulting from autosomal recessive inheritance of NM_001256240.2 PGAP2 c:284A>G, p.Tyr95Cys. We discuss strategies for establishing evidence for putative digenic inheritance in GPI deficiency disorders.
Impact of Dead Sea Halo-Karst Development on an Earthen Dike Rehabilitation Project
Authors: Closson Damien , Patil Akshay , Musthafa Mohamed , Gallagher Megan , Das Nitin
Published: January 2023

From the 1970s, the Dead Sea experienced severe halo-karstification and anthropogenic modifications. Progressively, but at an accelerating rate, subsidence, landslides, and sinkholes have increased in number and magnitude. The hazards’ triggering factors are the terminal lake level lowering at more than one meter per year and the dynamic equilibrium of the hydrogeological system. Over the Lisan peninsula, archived satellite images revealed the extent of the damaged areas. On 22 March 2000, the destruction of dike 19 represented a loss of 38 M USD. This is the most important event recorded since the beginning of the Dead Sea recession some 50 years ago. In 2018, a rehabilitation project of that dike started. This research analyses the viability of the reinstatement works. The advanced space borne radar interferometry technique is applied to map ground deformations before and during the project. This article reveals that the ongoing rehabilitation and reinstatement works of dike 19 are threatened by ongoing halo-karstification processes. Field observations and subsidence/uplift dynamics support this statement. The past experiences are taken into consideration to adapt industrial expansion strategies. However, the permeability of the salt pan floor could trigger a fast development of a karst system able to destroy the rehabilitated dike 19.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Gastrointestinal Disorders in 2022
Authors:   Gastrointestinal Disorders Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Relationships between Depression, Fear of Childbirth, and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms among Pregnant Women under the COVID-19 Pandemic in Japan
Authors: Usui Yuriko , Takegata Mizuki , Takeda Satoru , Kitamura Toshinori
Published: January 2023

Little is known about the causality of antenatal depression (AND). We focused on the causal relationships between AND, fear of childbirth (FOC), and obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. We also examined whether the perceived threat of COVID-19 is associated with AND. Participants were recruited for an Internet survey conducted in December 2020. A total of 245 pregnant women completed the online survey at 12 to 15 weeks’ gestational age (Time 1) and approximately 10 weeks later (Time 2). AND was estimated using the first two diagnostic items of Major Depressive Episode. The estimated prevalence of AND was 4.5% and 2.9% at Time 1 and Time 2, respectively. At both time points, no association was found between AND and the perception of COVID-19 threat. Structural equation modeling showed that AND predicted OCS (β = 0.16, p < 0.001), which, in turn, predicted FOC (β = 0.09, p = 0.042); FOC, in turn, predicted AND (β = 0.23, p < 0.001). AND, OCS, and FOC were predicted by borderline personality traits. Insecure adult attachment influenced AND and FOC via the perceived negative impact of the current pregnancy. Perinatal care providers should assess the personality and perception of pregnancy to prevent depression and pay attention to symptoms such as FOC and OCS in addition to those of depression.
Co-Creation in Health 4.0 as a New Solution for a New Era
Authors: Laurisz Norbert , Ćwiklicki Marek , Żabiński Michał , Canestrino Rossella , Magliocca Pierpaolo
Published: January 2023

Previous research on co-creation in healthcare indicates that the use of co-creation in the design process of health solutions influences their greater acceptance and adaptation, resulting in greater efficiency of health services and higher usability of implemented health solutions. Analysis of adaptation and acceptance of new technologies reveals the problem of misunderstanding and the need for more trust in modern tools implemented in the healthcare system. The remedy may be the use of co-creation in the process of developing modern medical products and services. This article’s main purpose is to explore the co-creation process in Health 4.0, which is understood as the development of healthcare through the application of methods and tools of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The literature review provided insights for an analytical framework—the co-creation matrix. We analyzed the case of the Italian medical platform Paginemediche.it to reveal the actors’ engagement in co-creation. The results demonstrated different levels of engagement in improving the efficiency of implementing medical and technological solutions. Both theoretical and practical analysis proved that the co-creation matrix helps more precisely define the scale and scope of co-creation in Health 4.0.
The Effect of Service Quality on Patient Citizenship Behaviors: Evidence from the Health Sector
Authors: Ulucayli Saime , Cek Kemal , Oniz Adile
Published: January 2023

Background: Nowadays, health organizations seek to bring innovations to their services to stand out in competition with their rivals by improving service quality (SQ), encouraging patients to always make the same organizational choices, and enhance the behavior of patient citizenship. Objective: This study aims to determine the mediating role of patient satisfaction (PS), patient loyalty (PL), and employee responsiveness (ER) between the service quality and patient citizenship behaviors (PCB). Methods: In order to test the proposed hypotheses, quantitative research methods were utilized; cross-sectional data was collected using scales between December 2021 and March 2022. Results were obtained from 422 participants. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling methods, using AMOS 21. Results: SQ was found to have a significant and positive effect on PL, PS, and ER. PL, PS, and ER were found to have a significant and positive effect on PCB. The indirect effect of SQ on PCB was found to be positive. Discussion: The findings demonstrate that SQ does not directly affect or create PCB, but it is affected by the mediators in order to create PCB via satisfaction, loyalty, and employee responsiveness.
Improving Learning and Study Strategies in Undergraduate Medical Students: A Pre-Post Study
Authors: Sisa Ivan , Garcés María Sol , Crespo-Andrade Cristina , Tobar Claudia
Published: January 2023

We aimed to describe the impact of a structured interventional program to improve learning and study skills in undergraduate medical students from a Latin American medical school. The interventional program’s design was based on diagnostic/prescriptive assessment test scores measuring ten scales. The program consisted of five tailored workshops. The cohort studied consisted of 81 third-year medical students. The outcome variable was the difference between “pre” and “post” test scores. The unadjusted score percentiles were used to compare improvement in learning and study skills. In addition, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess variation in the mean difference of the test scores by the number of workshops attended. The response rate was 100% (81/81) for the pre test and ~77% (62/81) for the post test. After the interventional program, nine out of ten scales showed statistical improvement, except for the scale of motivation. The scales with the highest and lowest percent change improvement were time management (66%, p-value: <0.001) and motivation (14.9%, p-value: 0.06). The students who attended more workshops obtained a higher percent change improvement in the post test. These findings suggest that through a well-designed interventional program, it is possible to improve learning and study skills among medical students.
A Framework for Automatic Clustering of EHR Messages Using a Spatial Clustering Approach
Authors: Ayaz Muhammad , Pasha Muhammad Fermi , Le Tham Yu , Alahmadi Tahani Jaser , Abdullah Nik Nailah Binti , Alhababi Zaid Ali
Published: January 2023

Although Health Level Seven (HL 7) message standards (v2, v3, Clinical Document Architecture (CDA)) have been commonly adopted, there are still issues associated with them, especially the semantic interoperability issues and lack of support for smart devices (e.g., smartphones, fitness trackers, and smartwatches), etc. In addition, healthcare organizations in many countries are still using proprietary electronic health record (EHR) message formats, making it challenging to convert to other data formats—particularly the latest HL7 Fast Health Interoperability Resources (FHIR) data standard. The FHIR is based on modern web technologies such as HTTP, XML, and JSON and would be capable of overcoming the shortcomings of the previous standards and supporting modern smart devices. Therefore, the FHIR standard could help the healthcare industry to avail the latest technologies benefits and improve data interoperability. The data representation and mapping from the legacy data standards (i.e., HL7 v2 and EHR) to the FHIR is necessary for the healthcare sector. However, direct data mapping or conversion from the traditional data standards to the FHIR data standard is challenging because of the nature and formats of the data. Therefore, in this article, we propose a framework that aims to convert proprietary EHR messages into the HL7 v2 format and apply an unsupervised clustering approach using the DBSCAN (density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise) algorithm to automatically group a variety of these HL7 v2 messages regardless of their semantic origins. The proposed framework’s implementation lays the groundwork to provide a generic mapping model with multi-point and multi-format data conversion input into the FHIR. Our experimental results show the proposed framework’s ability to automatically cluster various HL7 v2 message formats and provide analytic insight behind them.
Investigation on Musculoskeletal Injury and Psychological Empowerment of Reflexologists in Taiwan: Analysis of the Recognition to Alternative Therapy
Authors: Chen Ching-Yun , Cai Deng-Chuan
Published: January 2023

Many studies have proven that reflexology has been used as a complementary medical treatment. Therefore, the government has started to plan an examination system for reflexology personnel to ensure the quality of service. Reflexologists work long hours, have heavy workloads, and perform poses that do not conform to human factors, which often cause musculoskeletal fatigue. The purpose of this study is to understand the musculoskeletal pain conditions of reflexologists, the psychological empowerment status, and the perceptions of complementary medicine therapy. The data for this study were obtained in two ways: (1) 59 practitioners were surveyed by using a face-to-face questionnaire and (2) a semi-structured interview was carried out for 10 practitioners. This study discovered the following: (1) Reflexology practitioners have musculoskeletal discomfort symptoms in body parts, including the left shoulder (25.4%), left hand or wrist (25.4%), lower back (25.4%), right shoulder (23.7%), left elbow or forearm (22%). (2) Reflexology practitioners are highly psychologically empowered to work. (3) The practitioners of foot therapy hold a positive attitude towards foot therapy and believe that foot therapy is a natural therapy, which is self-serving and can help others. (4) Most reflexologists support the government’s desire to promote the reflexology examination system and are willing to help develop the policy. (5) The height of most reflexologist work chairs does not match the height of the guest’s seat and is not ergonomic.
Protection of Historical Mortars through Treatment with Suspensions of Nanoparticles
Authors: Pavlakou Efstathia I. , Lemonia Christine , Zouvani Emily , Paraskeva Christakis A. , Koutsoukos Petros G.
Published: January 2023

Mortars, which are very important elements for the integrity of historic monuments, consist mainly of calcium carbonate and silicates in different proportions. Chemical dissolution due to exposure in open air is very important for the degradation of mortars. Inorganic nanoparticles with chemical and crystallographic affinity with mortar components are expected to be effective structure stabilizers and agents offering resistance to chemical dissolution. In the present work, we have developed and applied suspensions of amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC), silicon oxide (am-SiO2) and composite nanoparticles by the precipitation of ACC on am-SiO2 and vice versa. The application of suspensions of the synthesized nanoparticles on three different historical mortars of Roman times (1st century AD), retarded their dissolution rate in solutions undersaturated with respect to calcite, in acid pH (6.50, 25 °C). All three test historic mortars, treated with suspensions of the nanoparticles prepared, showed high resistance towards dissolution at pH 6.50. The ability of the nanoparticles’ suspension to consolidate the damaged mortar was the key factor in deciding the corresponding effectiveness in the retardation of the rate of dissolution. The combination of ACC with am-SiO2 nanoparticles showed high efficiency for protection from the dissolution of calcite rich mortars.
Colorants Detected by HPLC-PDA in Textiles from 13th Century Lieto Ristinpelto, Finland
Authors: Wright Krista , Vanden Berghe Ina , Sahramaa Jenni , Suomela Jenni A.
Published: January 2023

Organic colorants of textiles found in the female burial of Lieto Ristinpelto, SW Finland, were analyzed by HPLC-PDA. The textiles’ visible colors varied from different brownish shades to blueish, greenish, and reddish hues. The aim of the chromatographic analysis was to deepen the current understandings of the dyes used in Finland at the transition between the 12th and 13th centuries AD, i.e., at the beginning of the local Medieval period, and to contribute important new information about dyes and clothing from this less-known period of textile history of Finland. The textile finds consisted of a bronze spiral ornamented shawl, an apron tied at the waist, two tablet-woven bands, and a diagonally plaited band with plaited tassels. A unique find was a textile possibly made using the sprang technique. Other textile finds were an orange wool tabby and twill fragments. Analysis of thirty samples from fourteen different textiles indicated that woad colorants were present in most samples, accompanied with lichen compounds, and dyer’s madder was in two visually orange fragments. The visually reddish samples contained luteolin, but no red colorants.
An Online Dissemination Workflow for the Scientific Process in CH through Semantic 3D: EMtools and EMviq Open Source Tools
Authors: Demetrescu Emanuel , Fanini Bruno , Cocca Enzo
Published: January 2023

This article explores the use of open source 3D tools to improve the transformation of the archaeological record into a virtual reconstruction. The goal of the research was to improve the dissemination of complete reconstructive Extended Matrix (EM) datasets, organized by epochs, to allow a “time travel” experience, by means of the EMviq online service “metaphor”. This article presents an incremental version (ver. 1.3.1) of EMtools (add-on for Blender 3D) and a renewed version of EMviq. These two original open source (GPL3) tools have been developed, on one hand, to facilitate the process of semantic enrichment and source-based 3D modeling of cultural contexts (EMtools) and, on the other hand, to visually inspect data within immersive virtual reality viewers, online (WebXR), or via mobile devices (EMviq). An application case is shown to illustrate the entire work-flow from the archaeological stratigraphic reading to the representation of the virtual reconstruction of what a context must have looked like at a given time in antiquity.
Deterioration Effects on Bricks Masonry in the Venice Lagoon Cultural Heritage: Study of the Main Façade of the Santa Maria dei Servi Church (14th Century)
Authors: Coletti Chiara , Cesareo Ludovica Pia , Nava Jacopo , Germinario Luigi , Maritan Lara , Massironi Matteo , Mazzoli Claudio
Published: January 2023

Tidal exchange, capillary rise, water condensation-evaporation cycles, and crystallization of salts are the main causes of damage in historic brick buildings in Venice. The present study addressed these issues by proposing a study of twenty-three brick samples collected on the main façade of the Santa Maria dei Servi Church (14th century). The color, mineralogical composition, and texture of these samples were studied using standard methods such as spectrophotometry, X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), optical microscopy (OM), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The presence of carbonates (calcite and dolomite) and newly formed silicate phases, such as gehlenite and diopside, provided indications of the temperatures reached during firing and suggested the absence of a good standardization in the production process. Meanwhile, XRPD and hyperspectral analysis (HA) detected sulfates (e.g., gypsum and mirabilite) as the main weathering products due to the salt decay process that affects monuments in the Venice lagoon environment. Moreover, secondary phases, such as Mg- and Ca-zeolites, occurred in bricks where the groundmass observed by OM was more vitrificated, and the XRPD patterns displayed the highest amorphous content. On-site mapping of sulfates and chlorophyll by HA was also performed on the main façade of the Church, highlighting the large presence of salts and biodeterioration.
Evaluation of the Irradiation Treatment Effects on Ancient Parchment Samples
Authors: Vadrucci Monia , Cicero Cristina , Mazzuca Claudia , Severini Leonardo , Uccelletti Daniela , Schifano Emily , Mercuri Fulvio , Zammit Ugo , Orazi Noemi , D’Amico Francesco , Parisse Pietro
Published: January 2023

In this work, the effect of X-ray irradiation as a disinfection treatment in original ancient parchment samples, belonging to a discarded book cover of a 16th-century archival register, has been evaluated. Specifically, the bacterial and fungal species isolated from the book cover have been characterized and then irradiated with increasing doses of X-rays with the aim to evaluate the effectiveness of the antimicrobial protocol on the isolated microorganisms. The deterioration effects induced by the X-ray treatment as well as the natural aging on the collagen matrix of the parchment sample have been tested by employing several techniques, namely, Light Transmission Analysis, Fiber Optic Reflectance Spectroscopy, Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transformed Infrared spectroscopy, UV Resonant Raman spectroscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy. The results reveal that the irradiation treatment applied to our ancient parchment samples deteriorated by biological attack and other naturally occurring phenomena, possibly associated with inappropriate conservation conditions, does not seem to induce further damage factors even when large doses of irradiation are employed. The X-rays-based disinfection treatment effects are limited on the collagen support and this confirms the potential of this method in mass disinfection of library and archival materials.
The Ontological Multiplicity of Digital Heritage Objects: 3D Modelling in the Cherish Project
Authors: Mackinnon Sterling
Published: January 2023

Digital objects are now pervasively used across the heritage sciences, often as 3D models. However, the theoretical discussion of what these objects are, ontologically speaking, can be diverse, ranging, and inconclusive. This paper will focus on the Cherish Project, a European research initiative that used a range of methods—including drone-based photogrammetry and laser scanning— to create 3D models of coastal heritage landscapes that are at risk due to climate change. In specifically attending to the database storage schemes and software/platforms employed by Cherish, this paper explores how digital heritage objects can more broadly be discussed in terms of their ontological multiplicity, the multi-sitedness of their production and circulation, and their mobility across interfaces as they are formalised and circulated. In tracing these specific factors, this paper arrives at epistemological insights about how digital heritage objects factor into knowledge producing practices like Cherish, foregrounding critical questions about how these practices might be differently discussed, pursued, or imagined.
Effect of Low R:FR Ratio on Nitrogen Assimilation and NRT Gene Expression in Pakchoi under Excessive Nitrate Stress
Authors: Zhou Xiaoting , Gan Yirong , Jiang Chenxiang , Chen Qiang , Chen Xu , Chen Libang , He Zhongqun
Published: January 2023

Nitrate accumulation is a major factor for the secondary salinization of greenhouse soil in China. Our previous study pointed out that a low ratio of red:far-red light (R:FR) can improve salt tolerance in pakchoi under excessive nitrate stress. However, the nitrogen metabolism mechanism is still unclear. To detect the effect of a low R:FR ratio on nitrogen metabolism of pakchoi under excessive nitrate stress, two extra additions of nitrogen of 80 mmol·L−1 NO3− (H80) and 160 mmol·L−1 NO3− (H160) with/without a low R:FR ratio (R:FR = 0.7) were set, and the growth index, chlorophyll content, key enzymes in nitrogen metabolism, nitrate and glutamic acid content and NRT gene expression level of pakchoi leaves were examined. The results indicated that a low ratio of R:FR could alleviate the reduction in growth and chlorophyll content in pakchoi under high-level nitrogen stress (H80 and H160). The activity of nitrate reductase (NR), glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamine synthetase (GOGAT) decreased under H80 and H160 conditions, except of NR with the H80 treatment. The activity of glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) increased under H80 treatment, but decreased under H160 treatment. However, the activity of GDH decreased further by reducing the ratio of R:FR. Excessive nitrate stress increased the nitrate content, and a low R:FR ratio could inhibit nitrate accumulation. However, the change in glutamic acid content was significantly increased under a low R:FR ratio without stress. Under the high-nitrogen level treatment (H160), the use of a low ratio of R:FR increased NRT gene expression. Therefore, a low R:FR ratio (R:FR = 0.7) could effectively promote the growth of pakchoi and improve its nitrogen metabolism, thus alleviating the stress effect of a high level of nitrogen in pakchoi.
Comparison of Nutrient Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Hydroponically Grown Commercial and Traditional Greek Tomato Cultivars
Authors: Georgaki Evangelia , Nifakos Kallimachos , Kotsiras Anastasios , Fanourakis Dimitrios , Tsaniklidis George , Delis Costas , Spiliopoulos Ioakim K.
Published: January 2023

The consumer demand for an enhanced diet intake of antioxidants and bioactive compounds is continuously rising. This work aims to evaluate the fruit nutritional composition and antioxidant activity of five tomato germplasm varieties, alongside a commercial F1 hybrid. Three varieties bear small-fruit (14–40 g), while two varieties and the commercial cultivar yield large fruit (150–300 g). Genotypes under study were cultivated in a greenhouse under the same environmental conditions. Fat, protein, carbohydrate, total phenol, total flavonoid, lycopene, and ascorbic acid contents were assessed at two fruit maturity stages (breaker, red ripe). For both hydrophilic and lipophilic fractions, antioxidant behavior was also evaluated by employing DPPH and FRAP assays. Small-fruit varieties generally possess higher fat and ascorbic acid content, as well as hydrophilic FRAP values as compared to large-fruit ones. In all varieties, lycopene content and lipophilic fraction radical scavenging capacity was considerably higher at red ripe stage. At red ripe stage, all germplasm varieties were clearly and consistently superior in terms of antioxidant activity at the lipophilic fraction owing to enhanced lycopene content. The results emphasize the value of reintroducing germplasm varieties in breeding programs and suggest that local varieties generally encompass high quality features.
Organo Mineral Fertilizers Increases Vegetative Growth and Yield and Quality Parameters of Pomegranate cv. Wonderful Fruits
Authors: Tarantino Annalisa , Disciglio Grazia , Frabboni Laura , Lopriore Giuseppe
Published: January 2023

In recent years, to improve sustainable production in horticultural crops, many new types of strategies have been developed, including organo-mineral fertilization to complement chemical fertilizers in order to enhance the nutritional status of plants and sustainability of the agroecosystems. This study was performed on a young pomegranate orchard of the “Wonderful” cultivar during the 2018 and 2019 seasons. The purpose was to evaluate the effects of three foliar applications (at the red ball, fruit setting, and fruit development stages) of four commercial organo-mineral fertilizers (Hendophyt®, Ergostim XL®, Siapton® 10L, and Allibio Rad®) on vegetative growth, yield, and several other physico-chemical parameters of the fruits, throughout each season. The results obtained showed several differences between the two years. The annual trunk growth of trees under all compared treatments showed significantly lower values in 2018 (average 9.7 mm) than in 2019 (average 11.8 mm). At the end of the two-year period, the biostimulant treatments resulted in significantly larger trunk diameters (average 43.6 mm) than the control (39.6 mm). Only in 2018, significantly higher number of fruits per tree, number of arils per fruit, edible part, and juice yield were obtained under biostimulant treatments compared with the control. No differences among treatments were observed for any color parameters or physico-chemical traits in the fruits for either year. In 2019, fruit morpho-pomological properties tended to be lower than in 2018, while in contrast, total phenol content and antioxidant activity were higher. The warmer and windier weather conditions of 2019 probably led to greater plant stress conditions, with a reduction in fruit size and an increase in the bioactive compounds of juice. In conclusion, due to the various positive results, foliar organo-mineral fertilizers could be recommended to improve the performance of pomegranate Wondeful cv. under similar conditions.
Adsorption/Desorption on Macroporous Resins of Okicamelliaside in the Extract of Camellia nitidissima Chi Leaves
Authors: Zheng Hanyu , Gao Ying , Zhang Jianyong , Meng Xin , Du Qizhen , Yin Junfeng
Published: January 2023

Okicamelliaside (OCS) from Camellia nitidissima Chi (C. nitidissima) leaves can be used in therapeutic drugs or nutritional foods. However, which resin is the best for separating OCS and the underlying mechanism for its superiority remains unclear. In this study, the differences in the adsorption/desorption effectiveness and adsorption kinetics of OCS on five resins were compared. AB-8 was found to be an effective resin for the separation of OCS and the adsorption kinetics followed a pseudo-first order model (R2 > 0.99). In order to optimize the separation of OCS by the resin AB-8, the adsorption time, OCS sample concentration, eluent solvent and volume were tested using a 7 mL column with a diameter of 2 cm. The results showed that the optimum adsorption time was 30 min and the optimum sample concentration was 2.5 mg/mL, while the optimum desorption was achieved by using 2.1 times column volume of 60% ethanol solution. The separation yielded a purified extract with OCS of 290.82 (±2.17) mg/g, which was 6.0 times more than the crude extract (E1, 48.51 (±0.56) mg/g of OCS). This study highlights the use of AB-8 resin for the separation of OCS as an effective technique on the basis of the adsorption/desorption of OCS on the resin. The method has the potential for obtaining green OCS extract with a high OCS content from the crude extract of the leaves of C. nitidissima.
Phytochemicals of Natural Products: Analysis and Biological Activities
Authors: Mihaylova Dasha , Popova Aneta
Published: January 2023

The natural products of the plant kingdom, both terrestrial and marine, have been widely explored [...]
Analyzing Spatial Trends of Precipitation Using Gridded Data in the Fez-Meknes Region, Morocco
Authors: Kessabi Ridouane , Hanchane Mohamed , Caloiero Tommaso , Pellicone Gaetano , Addou Rachid , Krakauer Nir Y.
Published: January 2023

The aim of this paper was to present a precipitation trend analysis using gridded data at annual, seasonal and monthly time scales over the Fez-Meknes region (northern Morocco) for the period 1961–2019. Our results showed a general decreasing trend at an annual scale, especially over the mountain and the wetter parts of the region, which was statistically significant in 72% of the grid points, ranging down to −30 mm per decade. A general upward trend during autumn, but still non-significant in 95% of the grid points, was detected, while during winter, significant negative trends were observed in the southwest (−10 to −20 mm per decade) and northeast areas (more than −20 mm per decade) of the region. Spring rainfall significantly decreased in 86% of the grid points, with values of this trend ranging between 0 and −5 mm per decade in the upper Moulouya and −5 to −10 mm per decade over the rest of the region (except the northwest). At a monthly time scale, significant negative trends were recorded during December, February, March and April, primarily over the northeast Middle Atlas and the northwest tip of the region, while a significant upward trend was observed during the month of August, especially in the Middle Atlas. These results could help decision makers understand rainfall variability within the region and work out proper plans while taking into account the effects of climate change.
Diminishment of Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacterales from Sink Outlets Using a Steam Cleaner
Authors: Umemura Takumi , Mutoh Yoshikazu , Sukawa Makiko , Hioki Tatsuya , Sakanashi Daisuke , Kato Hideo , Hagihara Mao , Yamada Tetsuya , Ikeda Yoshiaki , Mikamo Hiroshige , Ichihara Toshihiko
Published: January 2023

In 2016, Tosei General Hospital, a tertiary emergency medical facility with 633 beds in Japan, experienced a large nosocomial outbreak of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) that had spread to numerous sink outlets. Based on our experience with using steam cleaners to suppress CPE on environmental surfaces, we report the efficacy of steam cleaners in the disinfection of sink outlets. Steam cleaners were used to disinfect 22 target areas. CPE disappeared in 90.9% of the sink outlets within the first two months after disinfection, and, after 12 months, 54.5% of the sink outlets remained negative throughout the remainder of the study period. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using steam cleaners to disinfect sink outlets contaminated with CPE.
HIV Infection Indicator Disease-Based Active Case Finding in a University Hospital: Results from the SHOT Project
Authors: De Vito Andrea , Colpani Agnese , Mameli Maria Sabrina , Bagella Paola , Fiore Vito , Fozza Claudio , Montesu Maria Antonia , Fois Alessandro Giuseppe , Filigheddu Fabiana , Manzoni Noemi , Putzu Carlo , Babudieri Sergio , Madeddu Giordano
Published: January 2023

In 2014, UNAIDS launched renewed global targets for HIV control to achieve by 2025, known as “the three 95”: 95% of people living with HIV (PWH) diagnosed, of which 95% are receiving treatment, of which 95% are on sustained virological suppression. In Italy, new HIV diagnoses have been steadily decreasing since 2012. However, in 2020, 41% of new diagnoses presented with less than 200 CD4+ cells/µL and 60% with less than 350 CD4+ cells/µL. Implementing testing and early treatment is a key strategy to prevent AIDS, late presentation, and HIV transmission. We selected non-Infectious Diseases Units based on the European project HIDES and engaged colleagues in a condition-guided HIV screening strategy. We enrolled 300 patients, of which 202 were males (67.3%) and 98 were females (32.7%). Most of the screening was performed in Infectious Diseases (ID) and Hematologic wards. In total, we diagnosed eleven new HIV infections with a hospital prevalence in the study population of 3.7%. Five (45.4%) had a CD4 count <100/mm3, one (9.1%) <200/mm3, and one (9.1%) <300/mm3. Regarding risk factors, 81.8% declared having had unprotected sexual intercourse and 54.5% were heterosexual. All patients promptly started a combination antiretroviral regimen and 10 (90.9%) obtained an undetectable HIV-RNA status. Eight of the eleven (72.7%) patients are currently on follow-up in our outpatient clinic. A proactive indicator disease-guided screening can help avoid missed opportunities to diagnose HIV infection in a hospital setting. Implementing this kind of intervention could favor early diagnosis and access to treatment.
Gender Gap in Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic in South Korea: A Decomposition Analysis
Authors: Hwang Sunoong , Shin Heeju
Published: January 2023

The economic and social effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been widespread but unevenly distributed among genders. The pandemic may have also affected men’s and women’s mental health differently. This study examined whether the pandemic had stronger adverse effects on women’s mental health than on that of men given that the decline of the labor market was greater for women than for men. Using data from South Korea (June/September/December 2020, N = 3000), we investigated the gender gap in mental health during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic and its association with gender differences in labor market experiences. We employ the Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition method for this analysis. Although depression and anxiety increased among employed women and men during COVID-19, women showed lower levels of mental health than men. A significant portion of this gender gap is explained by women experiencing greater job loss, income reduction, and prohibition of remote work than men. We also find that women in their 30s experienced greater mental health problems than men of the same age even after controlling for other conditions. Overall, our findings show that a greater proportion of employed women than men experienced poor labor market conditions and increased family burdens during the COVID-19 pandemic, which contributed to women reporting worse mental health than men.
Oral Microbiota—One Habitat or Diverse Niches? A Pilot Study of Sampling and Identification of Oral Bacterial and Fungal Biota in Patients with Type I Diabetes Mellitus Treated with Insulin Pump
Authors: Gregorczyk-Maga Iwona , Fiema Mateusz , Kania Michal , Jachowicz-Matczak Estera , Romaniszyn Dorota , Gerreth Karolina , Klupa Tomasz , Wójkowska-Mach Jadwiga
Published: January 2023

Objective: The oral microbiota is a very complex and dynamic microbial ecosystem. Alterations of its balance can result in oral and systemic diseases. We aimed to characterize the microbiota in particular niches of the oral cavity in adult type 1 diabetes patients treated with continuous infusion of insulin with insulin pump (IP). In addition, we aimed to determine optimal sites of oral microbiota sampling in studies of large research groups of patients with DM I. Design: In this pilot study, we sampled the buccal and soft palate mucosa, tongue, palatal and buccal dental surfaces and gingival pockets of adult DM I patients treated with IP. Results: In total, 23 patients were recruited. The oral microbiota was dominated by Streptococus and Neisseria, with a low incidence of cariogenic S. mutans and Lactobacillus, as well as periodontal pathogens such as Prevotella. There were significant differences in overall CFU counts of all strains, Gram-positive, Staphylococci, Streptococci and S. oralis strains between mucosal and dental surface sites. The overall CFU counts of all strains and Gram-positive strains were higher in dental sites vs. mucosal sites (both p < 0.001). CFU counts of S. oralis were significantly higher in dental sites vs. gingival pocket sites (p = 0.013). Candida species were rare. The mucosal sites on the buccae presented lower diversity and bacterial counts. Conclusions: In the study group of adult DM I patients treated with IP, the microbiota in particular niches of the oral cavity was significantly different. Three distinct and optimally appropriate sampling sites for oral microflora were identified: buccal and palatal mucosa, dental surface and gingival pockets. The results of this study may be the basis for further studies of large groups of patients with DM I.
An Exploratory Study of Nurses’ Feelings about COVID-19 after Experiencing SARS
Authors: Lee Hui-Ling , Chang Pei-Ju , Lin Li-Chiu
Published: January 2023

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2003 in Taiwan impacted Taiwanese society. However, the first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported in Wuhan and spread around the world. During these outbreaks, nursing staff experienced different levels of pressure. Studies have explored the stress and adjustment of nurses during these periods, but studies describing the feelings of nurses during both SARS and COVID-19 outbreaks are lacking. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of nurses who had cared for both SARS and COVID-19 patients. A qualitative study combined with snowball sampling was applied. Semi-structured questions were used to interview 10 nurses who had experienced both SARS and COVID-19. Two themes and four sub-themes were analyzed, which were: facing the epidemic from the unknown to known; and the experiences from ignorance to proficiency. The sub-themes were: the feeling of frustration and concern; bottlenecks and pressures in my work; my mission and support; and positive energy and camaraderie. The results showed that the media acts as an important resource during disease outbreaks; therefore, government departments have to use their wisdom to make good use of the media. Secondly, understanding the general public’s response to the disease is also important for first-line nurses. Finally, on-the-job education and guidelines for first-line nurses are necessary, and support from the administration is also important.
Evaluation of Chemical Elements, Lipid Profiles, Nutritional Indices and Health Risk Assessment of European Eel (Anguilla anguilla L.)
Authors: Łuczyńska Joanna , Nowosad Joanna , Łuczyński Marek Jan , Kucharczyk Dariusz
Published: January 2023

The concentrations of ten elements (K, Na, Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, Hg, Cu, Mn, and Cd) and fatty acids were analyzed in muscles of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla Linnaeus, 1758). The eels were caught in freshwater lakes connected with the Sawica River (north-eastern Poland). On this basis, it was determined whether the consumption of the fish is beneficial and safe for the health of the consumer. The results showed that the metal concentrations followed this order: K > Na > Ca > Mg > Zn > Fe > Hg > Cu > Mn > Cd. The fatty acids gave rise to the following sequence: MUFAs > SFAs > n-3 PUFAs > n-6 PUFAs. The target hazard quotient (THQ) value was below 1.0. The hazard quotient for the benefit–risk ratio HQEFA (0.39) also was below one, indicating that the intake of the recommended dose of EPA + DHA (250 mg/day) and the intake of mercury (0.415 mg/kg) for a person weighing 70 kg does not pose an obvious risk for human health. The lipid quality indices were OFA: 24.69, DFA: 74.36, AI: 0.55, and TI: 0.41. Based on the above statements, the consumption of eel meat is safe from a health point of view. However, the levels of toxic metals in the muscles of eels and their environment should continue to be monitored, as eels occupy a high position in the food chain.
Study on Two Typical Progressive Motions in Tai Chi (Bafa Wubu) Promoting Lower Extremity Exercise
Authors: Li Haojie , Peng Fang , Lyu Shaojun , Ji Zhongqiu , Li Yameng
Published: January 2023

Background: By comparatively investigating the joints, muscles and bones of the lower extremity during two progressive motions in Bafa Wubu and normal walking, this paper aims to enrich the diversity of walking exercise and scientifically provide theoretical guidance for primary practitioners. The scientific training methods and technical characteristics of Bafa Wubu, as well as its contribution to comprehensive exercise of the lower extremities, are further explored. Methods: A total of eight professional athletes of Tai Chi at the national level were recruited. The kinetic parameters of the lower extremity were calculated using AnyBody 7.2 musculoskeletal modeling. Stress analysis of the iliac bone was performed using an ANSYS 19.2 workbench. Results: In Bafa Wubu, the ground reaction force during two progressive motions was significantly smaller than that noted during normal walking. During warding off with steps forward and laying with steps forward, the load at the three joints of the lower extremity was significantly smaller than that during normal walking in the frontal plane, but significantly greater than that noted during normal walking in the vertical axis. In addition, the lower limb joint torque was higher than that of normal walking in both progressive movements, and lower limb muscle activation was higher. The iliac bone loads during the two progressive motions were larger than those during normal walking, and the maximum loading point differed. Conclusions: This is the first study to demonstrate the biomechanical performance of Bafa Wubu in professional athletes of Tai Chi. Two progressive motions of Bafa Wubu require the lower extremity to be slowly controlled, thereby resulting in a smaller ground reaction force. In addition, the loads of the three joints at the lower extremity all increase in the vertical direction and decrease in the lateral direction, reducing the possibility of lateral injury to the joints. In addition, the two progressive motions significantly enhance the muscle strength of the plantar flexion muscles, dorsiflexor, and muscles around the thigh, and effectively stimulate the bones of the lower extremity. Therefore, progressive motion training contributes to improving the controlling and supporting capabilities of the lower extremities during normal walking.
Does the Internet Moderate the Neighborhood Effect? Internet Use, Neighborhoods, and Mental Health among Older Adults in Shanghai
Authors: Chen Wei , Miao Jia
Published: January 2023

Internet use may reduce the impact of the neighborhood on residents’ well-being by helping people utilize resources beyond their immediate neighborhoods or strengthen neighborhood influences by widening the digital divide across neighborhoods. This study investigates how internet use moderates neighborhood effects on mental health among older adults in Shanghai. Using data from the Shanghai Urban Neighborhood Survey (SUNS) and population census, hierarchical linear models reveal that older adults who more frequently use the internet report lower levels of mental distress. Internet use attenuates the negative effects of living in low-socioeconomic status (SES) neighborhoods. We also examine the roles of three types of internet use: social networking, leisure, and information seeking. The results show that only social networking and leisure internet use are significantly associated with improved mental health among older adults. The results suggest that social programs are needed to increase internet literacy among older adults to promote active aging, and priority should be given to relatively disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Health Risk Assessment in Children Occupationally and Para-Occupationally Exposed to Benzene Using a Reverse-Translation PBPK Model
Authors: Pech Kristal , Pérez-Herrera Norma , Vértiz-Hernández Ángel Antonio , Lajous Martín , Farías Paulina
Published: January 2023

Benzene is a known human carcinogen and one of the ten chemicals of major public health concern identified by the World Health Organization. Our objective was to evaluate benzene’s carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks (current and projected) in highly exposed children in Yucatan, Mexico. Benzene exposure was estimated through a reverse-translation, four-compartment, physiologically based pharmacokinetic model (PBPK) based on previously performed urine trans, trans-muconic acid (benzene metabolite) determinations. Using a risk assessment methodology, the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks of benzene were estimated for 6–12-year-old children from a family of shoemakers. The children’s hazard quotients for decreased lymphocyte count were 27 and 53 for 4 and 8 h/day exposure, respectively, and 37 for the projected 8 h/day exposure in adults. The risks of developing leukemia were 2–6 cases in 1000 children exposed 4 h/day; 4–10 cases in 1000 children exposed 8 h/day, and 2–9 cases in 1000 adults with an 8 h/day lifetime exposure. Children in Yucatan working in shoe-manufacturing workshops, or living next to them, are exposed to benzene concentrations above the reference concentration and have unacceptably high risks of presenting with non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic hematologic symptoms, now and in the future. Interventions to prevent further exposure and mitigate health risks are necessary.