bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA-Seq Based Transcriptomic Analysis of Bud Sport Skin Color in Grape Berries
Authors: Wen Wuwu , Fang Haimeng , Yue Lingqi , Khalil-Ur-Rehman Muhammad , Huang Yiqi , Du Zhaoxuan , Yang Guoshun , Xu Yanshuai
Published: February 2023

The most common bud sport trait in grapevines is the change in color of grape berry skin, and the color of grapes is mainly developed by the composition and accumulation of anthocyanins. Many studies have shown that MYBA is a key gene regulates the initiation of bud sport color and anthocyanin synthesis in grape peels. In the current study, we used berry skins of ‘Italia’, ‘Benitaka’, ‘Muscat of Alexandria’, ‘Flame Muscat’, ‘Rosario Bianco’, ‘Rosario Rosso’, and ‘Red Rosario’ at the véraison stage (10 weeks post-flowering and 11 weeks post-flowering) as research materials. The relative expressions of genes related to grape berry bud sport skin color were evaluated utilizing RNA-Seq technology. The results revealed that the expressions of the VvMYBA1/A2 gene in the three red grape varieties at the véraison stage were higher than in the three white grape varieties. The VvMYBA1/A2 gene is known to be associated with UFGT in the anthocyanin synthesis pathway. According to the results, VvMYBA1/A2 gene expression could also be associated with the expression of LDOX. In addition, a single gene (gene ID: Vitvi19g01871) displayed the highest expressions in all the samples at the véraison stage for the six varieties. The expression of this gene was much higher in the three green varieties compared to the three red ones. GO molecular function annotation identified it as a putative metallothionein-like protein with the ability to regulate the binding of copper ions to zinc ions and the role of maintaining the internal stable state of copper ions at the cellular level. High expression levels of this screened gene may play an important role in bud sport color of grape berry skin at the véraison stage.
Loneliness in University Students during Two Transitions: A Mixed Methods Approach Including Biographical Mapping
Authors: Jaud Janna , Görig Tatiana , Konkel Tobias , Diehl Katharina
Published: February 2023

Several studies have shown that loneliness is prevalent in university students. However, up to now, it is less clear how transitions during this life stage are associated with loneliness. Therefore, we aimed to explore the association of loneliness with the transition from high school to university and the transition into the COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty students were interviewed in qualitative interviews based on a semi-structured guide that also included biographical mapping. In addition, the participants reported social and emotional loneliness based on the six-item De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale for three points in time: (1) at the time of the interview, (2) at the beginning of their studies at the university and (3) at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The qualitative data were analyzed using a structuring content analysis following Mayring. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. We found that emotional loneliness increased both during high school graduation and at the start of study at the university, as well as at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Social loneliness was higher during university studies than during the last years at high school and increased at the beginning of the pandemic. The results indicate that both transitions played an important role for perceived social and emotional loneliness. Further quantitative studies in larger samples will be relevant in the future to better target the responses to loneliness during transitions. Universities can actively counteract loneliness, especially during the transition from high school to university, by organizing events and meeting places where new students can network.
Severity and Outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 Reinfection Compared with Primary Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Deng Jie , Ma Yirui , Liu Qiao , Du Min , Liu Min , Liu Jue
Published: February 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) reinfection has brought new challenges to the global prevention and control of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic; however, current studies suggest that there is still great uncertainty about the risk of severe COVID-19 and poor outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 reinfection. Random-effects inverse-variance models were used to evaluate the pooled prevalence (PP) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) of severity, outcomes and symptoms of reinfection. Random-effects were used to estimate the pooled odds ratios (OR) and its 95%CI of severity and outcomes between reinfections and primary infections. Nineteen studies involving a total of 34,375 cases of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection and 5,264,720 cases of SARS-CoV-2 primary infection were included in this meta-analysis. Among those SARS-CoV-2 reinfection cases, 41.77% (95%CI, 19.23–64.31%) were asymptomatic, and 51.83% (95%CI, 23.90–79.76%) were symptomatic, only 0.58% (95%CI, 0.031–1.14%) manifested as severe illness, and 0.04% (95%CI, 0.009–0.078%) manifested as critical illness. The PPs for SARS-CoV-2 reinfection-related hospitalization, admission to ICU, and death were, respectively, 15.48% (95%CI, 11.98–18.97%), 3.58% (95%CI, 0.39–6.77%), 2.96% (95%CI, 1.25–4.67%). Compared with SARS-CoV-2 primary infection cases, reinfection cases were more likely to present with mild illness (OR = 7.01, 95%CI, 5.83–8.44), and the risk of severe illness was reduced by 86% (OR = 0.14, 95%CI, 0.11–0.16). Primary infection provided some protection against reinfection and reduces the risk of symptomatic infection and severe illness. Reinfection did not contribute to extra risk of hospitalization, ICU, or death. It is suggested to scientifically understand the risk of reinfection of SARS-CoV-2, strengthen public health education, maintain healthy habits, and reduce the risk of reinfection.
Plant Based Diet and Its Effect on Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Salehin Salman , Rasmussen Peter , Mai Steven , Mushtaq Muhammad , Agarwal Mayank , Hasan Syed Mustajab , Salehin Shahran , Raja Muhammad , Gilani Syed , Khalife Wissam I.
Published: February 2023

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally and here in the United States. Diet has a major impact on the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. An unhealthy diet is the most significant potential behavioral and modifiable risk factor for ischemic heart disease. Despite these established facts, dietary interventions are far less frequent than pharmaceutical and procedural interventions in the management of cardiovascular disease. The beneficial effects of a plant-based diet on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality have been demonstrated in a number of recent clinical studies. The significant findings of each study are discussed in this review article, highlighting the role of a healthy plant-based diet in improving cardiovascular outcomes. From a clinician’s standpoint, the knowledge and understanding of the facts and data points from these recent clinical studies would ensure more effective patient counseling on the substantial benefits of dietary interventions.
Spatial Differentiation of PM2.5 Concentration and Analysis of Atmospheric Health Patterns in the Xiamen-Zhangzhou-QuanZhou Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Zeng Suiping , Tian Jian , Song Yuanzhen , Zeng Jian , Zhao Xiya
Published: February 2023

Exploring the spatial differentiation of PM2.5 concentrations in typical urban agglomerations and analyzing their atmospheric health patterns are necessary for building high-quality urban agglomerations. Taking the Xiamen-Zhangzhou-Quanzhou urban agglomeration as an example, and based on exploratory data analysis and mathematical statistics, we explore the PM2.5 spatial distribution patterns and characteristics and use hierarchical analysis to construct an atmospheric health evaluation system consisting of exposure–response degree, regional vulnerability, and regional adaptation, and then identify the spatial differentiation characteristics and critical causes of the atmospheric health pattern. This study shows the following: (1) The average annual PM2.5 value of the area in 2020 was 19.16 μg/m3, which was lower than China’s mean annual quality concentration limit, and the overall performance was clean. (2) The spatial distribution patterns of the components of the atmospheric health evaluation system are different, with the overall cleanliness benefit showing a “north-central-south depression, the rest of the region is mixed,” the regional vulnerability showing a coastal to inland decay, and the regional adaptability showing a “high north, low south, high east, low west” spatial divergence pattern. (3) The high-value area of the air health pattern of the area is an “F-shaped” spatial distribution; the low-value area shows a pattern of “north-middle-south” peaks standing side by side. The assessment of health patterns in the aforementioned areas can provide theoretical references for pollution prevention and control and the construction of healthy cities.
Associations of Social Networks with Physical Activity Enjoyment among Older Adults: Walkability as a Modifier through a STROBE-Compliant Analysis
Authors: Asiamah Nestor , Agyemang Simon Mawulorm , Yarfi Cosmos , Jnr Reginald Arthur-Mensah , Muhonja Faith , Khan Hafiz T. A. , Kouveliotis Kyriakos , Sghaier Sarra
Published: February 2023

The available evidence suggests that social networks can contribute to physical activity (PA) enjoyment, which is necessary for the maintenance of PA over the life course. This study assessed the associations of active and sedentary social networks with PA enjoyment and ascertained whether walkability moderates or modifies these associations. A cross-sectional design compliant with STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) was employed. The participants were 996 community-dwelling older Ghanaians aged 50 years or older. A hierarchical linear regression analysis was used to analyse the data. After adjusting for age and income, the study found that the active social network size (β = 0.09; p < 0.05) and sedentary social network size (β = 0.17; p < 0.001) were positively associated with PA enjoyment. These associations were strengthened by walkability. It is concluded that active and sedentary social networks may better support PA enjoyment in more walkable neighbourhoods. Therefore, enabling older adults to retain social networks and live in more walkable neighbourhoods may be an effective way to improve their PA enjoyment.
Web-Based Interventions Reduced Dental Anxiety among Adults in Lithuania and Norway: A Pilot Study
Authors: Stangvaltaite-Mouhat Lina , Stankeviciene Indre , Martinussen Sigrid Sofia Sanchez , Sabataitis Vytautas , Sandjord Camilla , Toresen Ingrid , Tryggestad Marianne Stoltenberg , Puriene Alina , Johnsen Jan-Are Kolset
Published: February 2023

Dental anxiety (DA) is a prevalent public health issue. However, there is a lack of self-administered DA interventions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term effects of web-based interventions aiming to reduce DA in adults in two European countries. A pretest posttest design was used. Tailor-made websites were developed in Lithuania and Norway. Volunteers who self-reported DA were invited to participate. DA levels measured by the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) were assessed at baseline and after two weeks via online questionnaires. The interventions were completed by 34 participants in Lithuania and 35 participants in Norway. In Lithuania, the median posttest MDAS score (9.5, IQR 5.25) decreased compared to the median pretest MDAS score (14.5, IQR 8; Z value = −4.246, p < 0.001). The same was found in Norway—the median posttest MDAS score (12, IQR 9) was lower compared to the median pretest MDAS score (15, IQR 7; Z value = −3.818, p < 0.001). The present study demonstrated that two tailor-made web-based interventions had the potential to reduce dental anxiety levels when assessed in the short term in Lithuania and Norway. Studies with more controlled designs assessing long-term outcomes are needed to validate the results of this pilot study also in other cultures.
Treated Livestock Wastewater Irrigation Is Safe for Maize (Zea mays) and Soybean (Glycine max) Intercropping System Considering Heavy Metals Migration in Soil–Plant System
Authors: Kama Rakhwe , Liu Yuan , Song Jibin , Hamani Abdoul Kader Mounkaila , Zhao Shouqiang , Li Siyi , Diatta Sekouna , Yang Fengxia , Li Zhongyang
Published: February 2023

Water deficit is a major problem affecting crop production worldwide. The use of treated wastewater in irrigation systems improves soil health and enhances crop growth and productivity. However, it has been characterized as a source of heavy metals. The unknown is how heavy metals’ movements would be impacted under an intercropping system when irrigated with treated wastewater. Understanding the dynamic of heavy metals in soil–plant systems is essential for environmental risk assessment and sustainable agriculture. A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted to explore the effects of treated wastewater irrigation on plant growth, soil chemical properties, and the movements of Zn, Cu, Pb, and Cd from soil to plants in monoculture and intercropping systems. Maize and soybean were selected as the test crops and groundwater and treated livestock wastewater as the water sources. This study found that treated wastewater irrigation and intercropping systems synergically increased the soil nutrient content and crop growth. The concentrations of Zn, Pb, and Cd were significantly higher in leaves compared to other plant parts contrastingly to Cu, which was higher in roots. In addition, treated wastewater irrigation increased grain nutrient content in mono- and intercropping systems while the concentration of heavy metals was in the acceptable range for human consumption. The enrichment degree of Cu and Pb due to treated livestock wastewater irrigation relative to groundwater irrigation was higher in uncultivated soil compared with cultivated soil. This study showed that the intercropping system facilitated heavy metals’ transfer from soil to plant except for Cd. These findings provide guidelines for a safe utilization of treated wastewater in agricultural systems and to reduce freshwater use pressure.
Stigmatizing Monkeypox and COVID-19: A Comparative Framing Study of The Washington Post’s Online News
Authors: Ju Weilun , Sannusi Shahrul Nazmi , Mohamad Emma
Published: February 2023

Background: Stigma relating to health can result in a broad range of vulnerabilities and risks for patients and healthcare providers. The media play a role in people’s understanding of health, and stigma is socially constructed through many communication channels, including media framing. Recent health issues affected by stigma include monkeypox and COVID-19. Objectives: This research aimed to examine how The Washington Post (WP) framed the stigma around monkeypox and COVID-19. Guided by framing theory and stigma theory, online news coverage of monkeypox and COVID-19 was analyzed to understand the construction of social stigma through media frames. Methods: This research used qualitative content analysis to compare news framings in The Washington Post’s online news coverage of monkeypox and COVID-19. Results: Using endemic, reassurance, and sexual-transmission frames, The Washington Post predominantly defined Africa as the source of monkeypox outbreaks, indirectly labeled gays as a specific group more likely to be infected with monkeypox, and emphasized that there was no need to worry about the spread of the monkeypox virus. In its COVID-19 coverage, The Washington Post adopted endemic and panic frames to describe China as the source of the coronavirus and to construct an image of panic regarding the spread of the virus. Conclusions: These stigma discourses are essentially manifestations of racism, xenophobia, and sexism in public health issues. This research confirms that the media reinforces the stigma phenomenon in relation to health through framing and provides suggestions for the media to mitigate this issue from a framing perspective.
Body Image in Adolescents with Gender Incongruence and Its Association with Psychological Functioning
Authors: Verveen Anouk , van der Miesen Anna I. R. , de Graaf Nastasja M. , Kreukels Baudewijntje P. C. , de Vries Annelou L. C. , Steensma Thomas D.
Published: February 2023

During adolescence, many individuals with gender incongruence (GI) experience distress related to body dissatisfaction. This study aims to describe the body (dis)satisfaction of Dutch adolescents referred for GI and to describe the influence of body image on their psychological functioning. Self-report measures on body satisfaction (Body Image Scale) and psychological functioning (Youth Self-Report) were obtained from 787 adolescents (aged 10–18) who were referred to the Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria at the Amsterdam University Medical Centers between 1996 and 2016. First, a general description of body satisfaction in adolescents with GI was developed. Secondly, multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine the association between body image and psychological functioning, both for total problems and for internalizing and externalizing problems separately. Third, regression analyses are repeated for body area subscales. Adolescents with GI report the greatest dissatisfaction with the genital area, regardless of birth-assigned sex. For all other body areas, there were birth-assigned sex differences in satisfaction. The analyses showed that body satisfaction was significantly related to total psychological problems and both internalizing and externalizing problems. Greater body dissatisfaction is significantly associated with worse psychological functioning in adolescents with GI. Clinicians should monitor the body image of adolescents with GI over time, especially during puberty and medical interventions.
Logistics Service Selection Strategy of Green Manufacturers in Green Low-Carbon Supply Chain
Authors: Yuan Xigang , Sheng Wenwen , Wang Min , Zhang Dalin
Published: February 2023

In order to analyze the logistics service mode and sales mode selection strategy, a green low-carbon supply chain consisting of a single manufacturer and a single e-commerce platform is considered. First, in the green low-carbon supply chain which consists of a direct selling channel and reselling channel, the selection strategy of the manufacturer’s logistics service mode is analyzed. Second, in the green low-carbon supply chain which consists of a direct selling channel and an agency channel, the selection strategy of the manufacturer’s logistics service mode is analyzed. Last, the manufacturer’s sales mode is analyzed. We use the backward induction method to solve the theoretical model. This study contributes to the literature by considering the optimal decision of a green low-carbon supply chain. This study brings together the literature from streams on the selling channel selection strategy in green supply chains and the logistics service strategy in green supply chains. The impacts of the logistics service cost, the selling cost, and the green input cost coefficient on the optimal decision and the firms’ profit are discussed. The result shows that in the direct selling channel and reselling channel, when the basic market demand and the logistics service level of the third-party logistics service provider are low, manufacturers will choose the e-commerce platform logistics service; in the opposite case, manufacturers will choose the third-party logistics service. In the direct selling channel and agency channels, when the logistics service level of the third-party logistics service provider is greater than or equal to a certain critical value and less than or equal to the logistics service level of the e-commerce platform, manufacturers will choose the e-commerce platform logistics service; in the opposite case, manufacturers will choose the third-party logistics service. No matter whether the manufacturer chooses the logistics service provided by the third-party logistics service provider or the logistics service provided by the e-commerce platform, the manufacturer should choose the direct selling channel and the agency channel.
The Role of Web-Based Adaptive Choice-Based Conjoint Analysis Technology in Eliciting Patients’ Preferences for Osteoarthritis Treatment
Authors: Al-Omari Basem , Farhat Joviana , Shraim Mujahed
Published: February 2023

Objective: To assess the feasibility of using adaptive choice-based conjoint (ACBC) analysis to elicit patients’ preferences for pharmacological treatment of osteoarthritis (OA), patients’ satisfaction with completing the ACBC questionnaire, and factors associated with questionnaire completion time. Methods: Adult patients aged 18 years and older with a medical diagnosis of OA, experiencing joint pain in the past 12 months, and living in the Northeast of England participated in the study. The participants completed a web-based ACBC questionnaire about their preferences regarding pharmaceutical treatment for OA using a touchscreen laptop independently, and accordingly, the questionnaire completion time was measured. Moreover, the participants completed a pen-and-paper feedback form about their experience in completing the ACBC questionnaire. Results: Twenty participants aged 40 years and older, 65% females, 75% had knee OA, and suffering from OA for more than 5 years participated in the study. About 60% of participants reported completing a computerized questionnaire in the past. About 85% of participants believed that the ACBC task helped them in making decisions regarding their OA medications, and 95% agreed or strongly agreed that they would be happy to complete a similar ACBC questionnaire in the future. The average questionnaire completion time was 16 min (range 10–24 min). The main factors associated with longer questionnaire completion time were older age, never using a computer in the past, and no previous experience in completing a questionnaire. Conclusions: The ACBC analysis is a feasible and efficient method to elicit patients’ preferences for pharmacological treatment of OA, which could be used in clinical settings to facilitate shared decision-making and patient-centered care. The ACBC questionnaire completion consumes a significantly longer time for elderly participants, who never used a computer, and never completed any questionnaire previously. Therefore, the contribution of patients and public involvement (PPI) group in the development of the ACBC questionnaire could facilitate participants’ understanding and satisfaction with the task. Future research including patients with different chronic conditions may provide more useful information about the efficiency of ACBC analysis in eliciting patients’ preferences for osteoarthritis treatment.
Acute Acoustic Trauma after Exposure to Assault Rifle Noise among Conscripts in the Finnish Defence Forces—A Population-Based Survey
Authors: Toivonen Markku , Pääkkönen Rauno , Niemensivu Riina , Aarnisalo Antti , Mäkitie Antti A.
Published: February 2023

Conscripts are exposed to various sources of impulse noise despite hearing protection recommendations. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of acute acoustic trauma (AAT) among conscripts after exposure to assault rifle noise in the Finnish Defence Forces (FDF). This nationwide population-based cohort comprised all conscripts (>220,000) in the FDF during the years 1997–2003 and 2008–2010. We included those who claimed to have AAT symptoms from assault rifle noise during the study periods. During the investigated 10 years, 1617 conscripts (annual variation, 75–276) experienced a new hearing loss due to AAT. Altogether, 1456 (90%) of all AAT-induced hearing losses were caused by rifle-caliber weapons and 1304 (90%) of them when firing a blank cartridge. There was no clear diminishing trend in the annual numbers of AATs. In 1277 (88%) incidents, no hearing protector was used. Tinnitus was the most prominent symptom. Hearing losses after AAT were typically mild, but serious deficits also occurred. In conclusion, we found that 0.7–1.5% of the conscripts experienced an AAT during their service in the FDF. Most incidents occurred when firing a blank cartridge with a rifle-caliber weapon and with no hearing protector in use.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Homecare Services for Adults and Older Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Curioni Cintia , Silva Ana Carolina , Damião Jorginete , Castro Andrea , Huang Miguel , Barroso Taianah , Araujo Daniel , Guerra Renata
Published: February 2023

This study provides an overview of the literature on the cost-effectiveness of homecare services compared to in-hospital care for adults and older adults. A systematic review was performed using Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL and CENTRAL databases from inception to April 2022. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (i) (older) adults; (ii) homecare as an intervention; (iii) hospital care as a comparison; (iv) a full economic evaluation examining both costs and consequences; and (v) economic evaluations arising from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Two independent reviewers selected the studies, extracted data and assessed study quality. Of the 14 studies identified, homecare, when compared to hospital care, was cost-saving in seven studies, cost-effective in two and more effective in one. The evidence suggests that homecare interventions are likely to be cost-saving and as effective as hospital. However, the included studies differ regarding the methods used, the types of costs and the patient populations of interest. In addition, methodological limitations were identified in some studies. Definitive conclusions are limited and highlight the need for better standardization of economic evaluations in this area. Further economic evaluations arising from well-designed RCTs would allow healthcare decision-makers to feel more confident in considering homecare interventions.
Spillover of Vaccine Hesitancy into Adult COVID-19 and Influenza: The Role of Race, Religion, and Political Affiliation in the United States
Authors: Zhang Victoria , Zhu Peiyao , Wagner Abram L.
Published: February 2023

Background: Due to its potential to lead to vaccine delays and refusals, vaccine hesitancy has attracted increased attention throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. It is crucial to investigate whether demographic patterns differ between adult general vaccine hesitancy and COVID-19 and flu vaccine non-receipt. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted online in August 2022. In response to questions about vaccine hesitancy, participants indicated whether they would receive the vaccine given various safety and efficacy profiles. Through logistic regression models, we examined variations between general vaccine hesitancy and COVID-19 non-vaccination. Results: Among the 700 participants, 49% of the respondents were classified as having general vaccine hesitancy, 17% had not received the COVID-19 vaccine, and 36% had not had flu vaccinations. In the multivariable analysis, general vaccine hesitancy and the non-receipt of COVID-19 vaccines were significantly higher in Non-Hispanic Black participants, those with no religious affiliation, and Republicans and Independents. Conclusions: Patterns of vaccine hesitancy and the non-receipt of the COVID-19 vaccination did not vary, indicating a substantial overlap and potential spillover in vaccine hesitancy over the course of the pandemic. Because changing people’s opinions regarding vaccinations is generally a challenge, different interventions specific to demographic subgroups may be necessary.
Health Care Providers’ Perspective and Knowledge about Peri-Surgical Medication and Practices in Breastfeeding Women
Authors: De Hondt Lena , Gorsen Santina Lisa , Verburgh Patrick , De Paepe Kristien , Muyldermans Joke , Tommelein Eline
Published: February 2023

Many guidelines offer recommendations to support the continuation of breastfeeding and the choice of medication when a mother undergoes a surgical procedure. The aim of this study is to investigate health care providers’ (HCPs) current practices and knowledge about peri-surgical medication and practices in breastfeeding women. We performed a cross-sectional study in Flanders (Belgium) assessing demographics, beliefs about breastfeeding and its health benefits, current practices concerning breastfeeding women undergoing (surgical) procedures and specific knowledge about the use of medication during breastfeeding. Two hundred and ninety-one (291) participants completed the online questionnaire. Many participants considered their knowledge about breastfeeding to be good, and almost all participants acknowledged the superiority of breastfeeding and the importance of its continuation. Very few participants were, however, familiar with the available protocols concerning surgical procedures in breastfeeding women. Less than half of the participants routinely advised the recommended practices to protect breastfeeding. For most of the peri-surgical medication, participants needed to look-up information about the compatibility with breastfeeding. We conclude that there is a knowledge gap and recommend the development of a comprehensive guideline as well as implementation of this information in basic and post-academic training.
Assessment of Oral Health in Long-Term Enteral and Parenteral Nutrition Patients: Significant Aspects of Nursing Care
Authors: Terech-Skóra Sylwia , Kasprzyk-Mazur Joanna , Leyk-Kolańczak Magdalena , Kruk Agnieszka , Piotrkowska Renata , Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska Wioletta , Książek Janina
Published: February 2023

Oral health is an underestimated factor affecting overall human health and quality of life. Long-term enteral or parenteral nutritional treatment requires not only regular assessment of access routes, the patient’s nutritional status, and tolerance to the selected method of nutrition but also of oral health. This article discusses the connections between the influence of chewing function, salivation, and xerostomia on the health of the oral cavity of patients on long-term enteral and parenteral nutrition. In addition, the role of nurses in assessing oral health is presented as well as crucial elements of a comprehensive oral assessment in a nursing care plan. Patients receiving long-term enteral and parenteral nutrition have an increased risk of developing oral diseases. Increasing knowledge about the factors affecting oral health among nurses is crucial to provide appropriate care for patients requiring long-term nutritional treatment with omission of the natural route of food intake. Regular assessment of oral health by nurses should be an important aspect in long-term nutritional treatment recommendations.
“We Should Be Working Together, and It Felt like They Disrupted That”: Pregnant Women and Partners’ Experiences of Maternity Care in the First UK COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown
Authors: Keely Alice , Greenfield Mari , Darwin Zoe
Published: February 2023

Pregnant women were identified as being at elevated risk from COVID-19 early in the pandemic. Certain restrictions were placed upon birth partners accompanying their pregnant partner to in-person maternity consultations and for in-patient maternity care. In the absence of a central directive in England, the nature of restrictions varied across maternity services. Eleven participants (seven pregnant women and four partners), who were expectant parents during the first UK COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, took part in serial interviews in pregnancy and the postnatal period. Data were subject to a reflexive thematic analysis. Four main themes were identified, with sub-themes: uncertainty and anxiety (uncertainty and anxiety about COVID-19, uncertainty and anxiety about maternity services); disruption of partnering and parenting role; complexity around entering hospital spaces (hospitals offering protection while posing threat, individual health professionals in inflexible systems); and attempting to feel in control. Separating couples may result in disruption to their anticipated roles and significant distress to both partners, with potential impacts for mental health and future family relationships. Trauma-informed perspectives are relevant for understanding parents’ experiences of maternity care in the pandemic and identifying ways to improve care to promote and protect the mental health of all parents.
Chinese American and Non-Hispanic White Breast Cancer Patients’ Knowledge and Use of BRCA Testing
Authors: Wang Haocen , Chen Lei-Shih , Hsiao Hsin-Yi , Hsiao Suh Chen , Han Tian , Chang Emily , Assoumou Bertille , Wang Judy Huei-Yu
Published: February 2023

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Chinese American women. Knowing the BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) gene mutation status can improve breast cancer patients’ health outcomes by guiding targeted treatment towards preventing breast cancer recurrence and other BRCA-related cancers. Nevertheless, it is unclear if there is a disparity in knowledge and use of BRCA testing among Chinese American breast cancer patients. This cross-sectional study investigated the possible presence of differences in the knowledge and the use of BRCA testing between Chinese American and Non-Hispanic White (NHW) breast cancer patients. We surveyed 45 Chinese American and 48 NHW adult breast cancer patients who had been diagnosed with breast cancer within the previous two years through telephone interviews. The results showed that race was not statistically related to the use of BRCA testing. BRCA testing utilization was associated with family history (p < 0.05) and age (p < 0.05). However, Chinese American participants’ understanding of BRCA testing was significantly lower than that of NHW participants (p = 0.030). Our findings suggest that a disparity exists in BRCA testing knowledge between Chinese American and NHW breast cancer patients. Genetic education and counseling are needed to improve BRCA testing knowledge and uptake among Chinese American breast cancer patients.
The Impact of Fintech Development on Air Pollution
Authors: Ma Yuzhen , Wei Xinyang , Yan Gaoyun , He Xiaoyu
Published: February 2023

Over the past 40 years of reform and opening-up, China has achieved rapid economic and technological growth at the cost of severe air pollution. The emerging Fintech, as the result of financial institutions’ adapting to the latest digital technology, might be a solution to reduce air pollution. This paper investigates the impact of Fintech development on air pollution using a two-factor fixed effects model based on data for prefecture-level cities in China from 2011 to 2017. The findings show that Fintech development can effectively reduce air pollution emissions, and this conclusion is proved to be robust throughout a series of tests. The mechanism analysis shows that Fintech reduces air pollution by promoting digital finance and green innovation.
Nurses’ Readiness to Undertake Controlled Negative Pressure Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Wounds—Research Report
Authors: Przybek-Mita Joanna , Bazaliński Dariusz , Szewczyk Maria Teresa , Kardyś Daria , Mańkowski Bartosz , Więch Paweł
Published: February 2023

Local wound treatment with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) shortens the healing process but requires the supervision of trained medical personnel for administering the therapeutic procedures. Professional supervision and control of the effectiveness of NPWT, as well as education conducted by nurses, are of particular importance for therapeutic and caring processes, both in hospital and at home. The aim of the study was the assessment of the perception of NPWT by certified nurses in the topical treatment of chronic wounds. The study was conducted using the method of estimation and a diagnostic survey with the proprietary NPWT perception questionnaire: 495 subjects were enrolled in the study and 401 respondents aged 25–67 years qualified for statistical analysis. Despite their experience and competence, the respondents critically assessed their knowledge, pointing to an average subjective level of knowledge related to wound treatment and a low level of knowledge related to NPWT. Most of the respondents had no experience of independent treatment using this method. The data obtained from the questionnaire clearly indicate theoretical preparation and high motivation to undertake activities related to the implementation of NPWT in their own practice. Low readiness values suggested that the subjects did not have the resources or the ability to implement the method. The perception of NPWT in the surveyed group of nurses was determined by numerous factors, including self-assessment of their own knowledge, motivation and readiness to use NPWT. A high level of NPWT perception was noted, despite low motivation related to the availability and knowledge of the method. Theoretical knowledge is insufficient to implement innovative methods in local wound treatment. Practical skills and motivation are indispensable elements that should be met during the training and education of nurses in the field of wound care.
Impact of Social Media Use on Mental Health within Adolescent and Student Populations during COVID-19 Pandemic: Review
Authors: Draženović Marija , Vukušić Rukavina Tea , Machala Poplašen Lovela
Published: February 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed our lives. By increased screen time during the pandemic, social media (SM) could have significantly impacted adolescents’ and students’ mental health (MH). This literature review aims to synthesize the research on the impact of SM usage on MH of adolescents and students during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. A review of the published literature was conducted in April 2021, through a search of PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection databases. The search yielded 1136 records, with 13 articles selected for this review. Most of the included studies observed the negative impact of SM use on MH of adolescents and students, most noticeably observed were anxiety, depression and stress. More active and prolonged SM usage was associated with a negative impact on MH of adolescents and students. Two studies recorded some potentially positive effects, such as support in coping and providing a sense of connection for those who were isolated due to social distancing measures. Since this review focuses on the early period of the pandemic, future studies should investigate the long-term impact of SM use on adolescents and students MH, with all relevant elements that can enable adequate public health response.
Perception of Work-Related Stress and Quality of Life among Nurses during COVID-19 Pandemic–An International, Multicenter Prospective Study
Authors: Jarabicová Oľga , Šupínová Mária , Jankovičová Júlia , Witczak Izabela , Zemanová Miroslava , Cmorej Patrik Christian , Rypicz Łukasz
Published: February 2023

The major focus of the study was the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers’ mental health. Nurses are the workers who were exposed to pandemic–related stress, being the most affected. The present cross-sectional study was focused on finding out the differences of the level of work-related stress and quality of life in nurses of the three Central European states, specifically the Czech Republic, the Slovak Republic, and Poland. A structured anonymous online questionnaire was created, and then the link was distributed to the target population through executives. Data analysis was performed by using the R programme–version 4.1.3. The study found that nurses from the Czech Republic achieved lower stress levels and had a higher quality of life than nurses from Poland and Slovakia.
Machine Learning Models to Predict the Risk of Rapidly Progressive Kidney Disease and the Need for Nephrology Referral in Adult Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hsu Chia-Tien , Pai Kai-Chih , Chen Lun-Chi , Lin Shau-Hung , Wu Ming-Ju
Published: February 2023

Early detection of rapidly progressive kidney disease is key to improving the renal outcome and reducing complications in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We aimed to construct a 6-month machine learning (ML) predictive model for the risk of rapidly progressive kidney disease and the need for nephrology referral in adult patients with T2DM and an initial estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. We extracted patients and medical features from the electronic medical records (EMR), and the cohort was divided into a training/validation and testing data set to develop and validate the models on the basis of three algorithms: logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). We also applied an ensemble approach using soft voting classifier to classify the referral group. We used the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), precision, recall, and accuracy as the metrics to evaluate the performance. Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) values were used to evaluate the feature importance. The XGB model had higher accuracy and relatively higher precision in the referral group as compared with the LR and RF models, but LR and RF models had higher recall in the referral group. In general, the ensemble voting classifier had relatively higher accuracy, higher AUROC, and higher recall in the referral group as compared with the other three models. In addition, we found a more specific definition of the target improved the model performance in our study. In conclusion, we built a 6-month ML predictive model for the risk of rapidly progressive kidney disease. Early detection and then nephrology referral may facilitate appropriate management.
Organizational Risk Factors for Aircrew Health: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Marqueze Elaine Cristina , de Sá e Benevides Erika Alvim , Russo Ana Carolina , Fürst Mariana Souza Gomes , Roscani Rodrigo Cauduro , Guimarães Paulo Cesar Vaz , Salim Celso Amorim
Published: February 2023

Addressing the field of health and safety at work, the primary objective of the present systematic review was to analyze the organizational risk factors for aircrew health according to professional category (flight attendants and pilots/co-pilots) and their consequences. The secondary objective was to identify the countries in which studies were carried out, focusing on the quality of content of the publications. The Medline/Pubmed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched for eligible studies according to PRISMA statements. The risk of bias and the methodological quality of the studies were assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and Loney tools. Of the 3230 abstracts of articles screened, 36 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most of the research conducted on risk factors for the work organization of aircrew was carried out in the United States and the European Union and had moderate or low-quality methodology and evidence. However, the findings are homogeneous and allow the most prevalent organizational risk factors for the health of aircrew to be determined, namely, high work demand, long hours, and night work. Consequently, the most pervasive health problems were sleep disturbances, mental health disorders, musculoskeletal disorders, and fatigue. Thus, the regulation of the aircrew profession must prioritize measures that minimize these risk factors to promote better health and sleep for these professionals and, consequently, to provide excellent safety for workers and passengers.
The Use of Wearable Technologies in the Assessment of Physical Activity in Preschool- and School-Age Youth: Systematic Review
Authors: Sousa António C. , Ferrinho Susana N. , Travassos Bruno F.
Published: February 2023

In recent years, physical activity assessment has increasingly relied on wearable monitors to provide measures for surveillance, intervention, and epidemiological research. This present systematic review aimed to examine the current research about the utilization of wearable technology in the evaluation in physical activities of preschool- and school-age children. A database search (Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus) for original research articles was performed. A total of twenty-one articles met the inclusion criteria, and the Cochrane risk of bias tool was used. Wearable technology can actually be a very important instrument/tool to detect the movements and monitor the physical activity of children and adolescents. The results revealed that there are a few studies on the influence of these technologies on physical activity in schools, and most of them are descriptive. In line with previous research, the wearable devices can be used as a motivational tool to improve PA behaviors and in the evaluation of PA interventions. However, the different reliability levels of the different devices used in the studies can compromise the analysis and understanding of the results.
Co-Occurring Conduct Problems and Anxiety: Implications for the Functioning and Treatment of Youth with Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Authors: Halldorsdottir Thorhildur , Fraire Maria G , Drabick Deborah A. G. , Ollendick Thomas H.
Published: February 2023

Conduct problems and anxiety symptoms commonly co-occur among youths with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD); however, how these symptoms influence functioning and treatment outcomes remains unclear. This study examined subtypes based on these co-occurring symptoms in a clinical sample of 134 youths (Mage = 9.67, 36.6% female, 83.6% white) with ODD and the predictive power of these subgroups for youth functioning and psychosocial treatment outcomes. The latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify subgroups based on parent- and self-reported conduct problems and anxiety symptoms. Differences among the subgroups in clinician-, parent-, and/or self-reported accounts of symptom severity, school performance, underlying processing known to be impaired across ODD, conduct and anxiety disorders, self-concept, and psychosocial treatment outcomes were examined. Four distinct profiles were identified: (1) Low Anxiety/Moderate Conduct Problems (n = 42); (2) High Anxiety/Moderate Conduct Problems (n = 33); (3) Moderate Anxiety/Moderate Conduct Problems (n = 40); and (4) Moderate Anxiety/High Conduct Problems (n = 19). The Moderate Anxiety/High Conduct Problems group exhibited more severe behavioral problems, greater difficulties with negative emotionality, emotional self-control, and executive functioning; they also demonstrated worse long-term treatment outcomes than the other subgroups. These findings suggest more homogeneous subgroups within and across diagnostic categories may result in a deeper understanding of ODD and could inform nosological systems and intervention efforts.
A Sustainable Road Transport Decarbonisation: The Scenario Analysis of New Energy Vehicle in China
Authors: Chen Anqi , You Shibing , Liu Huan , Zhu Jiaxuan , Peng Xu
Published: February 2023

Due to the prosperous development of the economy, the emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) have intensified and attracted attention worldwide. China has set the “dual-carbon” aim to pursue sustainable development in the transport sector. Thus, this study created a generalised Bass model to forecast new energy vehicle (NEV) ownership by introducing a new factor, charging piles, to reflect the infrastructure effects. Using the improved model with the hypothesis of annual mileage, an empirical analysis was conducted with the subject of NEVs in China by using the NEV-related panel data from 2010 to 2020, and the forecast result is outstanding with a goodness-of-fit of 99.7%. With the forecasts, carbon emission reduction was calculated with a bottom-up method. To further discuss the pathway to achieve carbon neutrality in the transport sector of China, a scenario analysis was conducted with ideal, enhanced, and radical constraints. The results show that if all factors remain “as is” until 2050, China will be far from carbon neutrality. Thus, this paper proposes relevant policy implications to assist the government to obtain effective methods to assess carbon reduction benefits and find viable pathways to a sustainable road transport system.