bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mindfulness Training Associated With Resting-State Electroencephalograms Dynamics in Novice Practitioners via Mindful Breathing and Body-Scan
Authors: Ng Hei-Yin Hydra , Wu Changwei W. , Huang Feng-Ying , Cheng Yu-Ting , Guu Shiao-Fei , Huang Chih-Mao , Hsu Chia-Fen , Chao Yi-Ping , Jung Tzyy-Ping , Chuang Chun-Hsiang
Published: October 2021

Objectives: Mindfulness-based stress reduction has been proven to improve mental health and quality of life. This study examined how mindfulness training and various types of mindfulness practices altered brain activity.

Methods: Specifically, the spectral powers of scalp electroencephalography of the mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) group (n=17) who underwent an 8-week MBSR training—including mindful breathing and body-scan—were evaluated and compared with those of the waitlist controls (n=14).

Results: Empirical results indicated that the post-intervention effect of MBSR significantly elevated the resting-state beta powers and reduced resting-state delta powers in both practices; such changes were not observed in the waitlist control. Compared with mindful breathing, body-scanning resulted in an overall decline in electroencephalograms (EEG) spectral powers at both delta and low-gamma bands among trained participants.

Conclusion: Together with our preliminary data of expert mediators, the aforementioned spectral changes were salient after intervention, but mitigated along with expertise. Additionally, after receiving training, the MBSR group’s mindfulness and emotion regulation levels improved significantly, which were correlated with the EEG spectral changes in the theta, alpha, and low-beta bands. The results supported that MBSR might function as a unique internal processing tool that involves increased vigilant capability and induces alterations similar to other cognitive training.
Prosocial Gains and Losses: Modulations of Human Social Decision-Making by Loss-Gain Context
Authors: Feng Chunliang , Zhang Yijie , Zhang Zhixin , Yuan Jie
Published: October 2021

The role of the loss-gain context in human social decision-making remains heavily debated, with mixed evidence showing that losses (vs. gains) boost both selfish and prosocial motivations. Herein, we propose that the loss context, compared to the gain context, exacerbates intuitive reactions in response to the conflict between self-interest and prosocial preferences, regardless of whether those dominant responses are selfish or altruistic. We then synthesize evidence from three lines of research to support the account, which indicates that losses may either enhance or inhibit altruistic behaviors depending on the dominant responses in the employed interactive economic games, prosocial/proself traits, and the explicit engagement of deliberative processes. The current perspective contributes to the ongoing debate on the association between loss-gain context and human prosociality by putting forward a theoretical framework to integrate previous conflicting perspectives.
The Positive Effect of Perceived Exercise Benefit and the Negative Effect of Perceived Severity of Disease and Weakness on College Students' Amount of Exercise: The Mediate and Suppressor Role of Physical Fitness Evaluation Self-Efficacy
Authors: Xue-liu Li , Mu Xia
Published: October 2021

Background: The decline in the physical fitness of college students has become a serious social problem worldwide. Therefore, exploring the factors affecting the amount of exercise of college students is of great significance in improving college students' physique. According to the expectation value theory and previous studies, perceived exercise benefit and perceived severity of disease and weakness may have positive or negative impact on exercise behavior, and according to the self-efficacy theory, physical evaluation self-efficacy may be the most powerful motivational factors and it play a mediating role between other factors and exercise behavior. Therefore, this study was designed to determine the critical role of physical evaluation self-efficacy in the path of perceived exercise benefit and perceived severity of disease and weakness affecting the amount of exercise of college students.

Methods: By means of Physical Fitness Health Belief of College Students Scale and Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), 801 undergraduate students were investigated in this study.

Results: (1) When perceived exercise benefit, exercise self-efficacy, and severity of perceived disease and weakness predicted the amount of exercise separately, the first two have a positive effect on the amount of exercise, but the latter has no effect. However, when these three factors entered the regression equation at the same time, the perceived severity of disease and weakness had a negative effect on the amount of exercise. (2) The influence of physical evaluation self-efficacy on the college students' the amount of exercise was bigger than benefit of perceived exercise and the perceived severity of disease and weakness in both separated and simultaneous comparison conditions. (3) Physical evaluation self-efficacy completely mediated the positive effect of perceived exercise benefits on the amount of exercise and inhibited the negative effect of perceived severity of disease and weakness on the amount of exercise.

Conclusion: Physical evaluation self-efficacy has a strong predictive power on the amount of exercise of college students. This was reflected in its ability to mediate the impact of expectation of exercise results and in its ability to suppress the adverse effects of concern about illness on exercise.
Use of Linguistic Complexity in Writing Among Chinese EFL Learners in High-Stakes Tests: Insights From a Corpus of TOEFL iBT
Authors: Qian Leyi , Cheng Yan , Zhao Yali
Published: October 2021

In studies on second language writing, linguistic complexity exhibited by learners has long been regarded as being indicative of writing proficiency. However, there are relatively scant studies focusing on the diversity and structural elaboration of complexity in L2 production data that are extracted from high-stakes tests [such as Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and International English Language Testing System (IELTS)]. Using a large-scale learner corpus collected from a TOEFL (internet-based test (iBT), this study aims to explore the extent to which the three dimensions of linguistic complexity, syntactic, lexical, and morphological complexity, are associated with human scoring in high-stakes tests. In addition, we also tend to tap into within-genre topic effects on the production of complexity measures by learners. To this end, a total of 1,002 writing samples were collected from a TOEFL11 corpus, and six automated-coding instruments were used to investigate the variations of complexity among Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. The results from the correlation analysis, multiple linear regression, and independent sample t-tests indicated that there was not a linear correlation between the majority of linguistic complexity and human-rated score levels and that proficiency among Chinese EFL learners did not signal a discriminative power in their language production. In the meantime, strong within-proficiency topic effects were found on the majority of measures in the syntactic, lexical, and morphological dimensions.
The Mediating Role of Bullying and Victimisation on the Relationship Between Problematic Internet Use and Substance Abuse Among Adolescents in the UK: The Parent–Child Relationship as a Moderator
Authors: Samara Muthanna , Massarwi Adeem Ahmad , El-Asam Aiman , Hammuda Sara , Smith Peter K. , Morsi Hisham
Published: October 2021

Over the last decade, research into the negative effects of problematic internet use has greatly increased. The current study adopted a mediation-moderation model in exploring the relationship between problematic internet use and substance abuse (drinking, drug use, and smoking tobacco cigarettes) among 1,613 adolescents (aged 10–16) in the UK. The findings of the study revealed a significant positive correlation between problematic internet use and substance abuse, which is mediated by traditional and cyber bullying and victimisation. Furthermore, the parent–child relationship was found to be a protective factor that moderated the correlation between problematic internet use and substance abuse and the correlation between problematic internet use and traditional bullying. The study emphasises the critical need to reduce problematic internet use among adolescents as a risk factor for involvement in bullying as perpetrators and victims, in addition to substance abuse. Furthermore, the findings of the study highlight the importance of a good parent–child relationship as a protective factor among adolescents. In light of the findings of the study, interventions for reducing problematic internet use taking into account bullying and the parent–child relationship are needed among adolescents.
Catatonia: A Common Cause of Late Regression in Autism
Authors: Ghaziuddin Mohammad
Published: October 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social communication deficits and restricted interests and behaviors which begin very early in life. In about a quarter of cases, the symptoms emerge about 18–24 months after a period of normal development, a phenomenon commonly described as early regression. However, marked functional decline can also occur in persons with autism after a relatively stable childhood. As opposed to early regression, which occurs in normally developing children, late regression occurs typically in adolescents with an established diagnosis of autism. Apart from their occasional mention in the literature, these individuals have not been examined systematically. This Brief Report describes the presentation, comorbidity and short-term outcome of 20 persons with ASD who developed late regression. The mean age of onset of regression was 13 years. One of the earliest symptoms was an increase in obsessive slowing and compulsive rituals. Other symptoms included motor abnormalities, aggression and mood disturbance. The most common comorbid disorder was catatonia occurring in 17 patients. Despite treatment with several modalities, the outcome was often suboptimal. These findings suggest that catatonia is a common cause of late regression in persons with autism. Clinical and research implications are discussed.
Buprenorphine Induction in a Rural Maryland Detention Center During COVID-19: Implementation and Preliminary Outcomes of a Novel Telemedicine Treatment Program for Incarcerated Individuals With Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Belcher Annabelle M. , Coble Kelly , Cole Thomas O. , Welsh Christopher J. , Whitney Anna , Weintraub Eric
Published: October 2021

Over 10 million individuals pass through U.S. detention centers on an annual basis, with nearly two-thirds meeting criteria for drug dependence/abuse. Despite proven efficacy, treatment with medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is underutilized in jail settings—a gap that could be addressed using telemedicine. Here we describe a new program of telemedicine-based clinical provision of new/continuing buprenorphine treatment for individuals detained in a rural jail. Implementation objectives were completed between January and August 2020, and patient encounters were conducted between August 2020 and February 2021. We established (i) telemedicine hardware/software capability; (ii) a screening process; (iii) buprenorphine administration methods; (iv) necessary medical release procedures; (v) telemedicine encounter coordination and medication prescription procedures; and (vi) a research platform. Seven incarcerated patients have been treated, two of whom were referred from community treatment. Patients were mostly male (71%), non-Hispanic White (86%), and averaged 33 years old. All patients tested positive for an opioid upon intake and began/continued buprenorphine treatment in the jail. Average time to first MOUD appointment was 9 days and patients were maintained in treatment an average 21 days. Referrals for continuing community treatment were offered to all patients prior to discharge. We report successful implementation of telemedicine MOUD in a rural detention center, with treatment engagement and initiation occurring prior to the high-risk period of discharge. The fact that this program was launched during the height of the pandemic highlights the flexibility of telemedicine-based buprenorphine treatment. Challenges and obstacles to implementation of buprenorphine treatment in a correctional system are discussed.
EEG Microstates and Its Relationship With Clinical Symptoms in Patients With Schizophrenia
Authors: Sun Qiaoling , Zhou Jiansong , Guo Huijuan , Gou Ningzhi , Lin Ruoheng , Huang Ying , Guo Weilong , Wang Xiaoping
Published: October 2021

Schizophrenia is a complex and devastating disorder with unclear pathogenesis. Electroencephalogram (EEG) microstates have been suggested as a potential endophenotype for this disorder. However, no clear dynamic pattern of microstates has been found. This study aims to identify the dynamics of EEG microstates in schizophrenia and to test whether schizophrenia patients with altered clinical symptoms severity showed different microstates abnormalities compared with healthy controls. Resting-state EEG data in 46 individuals who met the ICD-10 diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia and 39 healthy controls was recorded. The patients with schizophrenia were divided into subgroups based on the level of their negative or positive symptoms assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. Microstate parameters (contribution, occurrence, and duration) of four prototypical microstate classes (A–D) were investigated. Compared with healthy controls, individuals with schizophrenia showed increased duration and contribution of microstate class C, decreased contribution and occurrence of microstate class B. Different microstate patterns were found between subgroups and healthy controls. Results in this study support the consistent observation of abnormal EEG microstates patterns in patients with schizophrenia and highlight the necessity to divide subjects into subgroups according to their clinical symptoms.
Adding a Seat at the Table: A Case Study of the Provider's Perspective on Integrating Community Health Workers at Provider Practices in California
Authors: Paulson Courtney A. , Durazo Eva M. , Purry Leigh D. , Covington Arianne E. , Bob Bruce Alan , Peters Rebecca A. , Torchia Steven , Beard Baylis , McDermott Lucy E. , Lerner Amy , Smart-Sanchez Joycelyn , Ashok Mahima , Ejuwa Jacqueline , Cosgrove Shannon
Published: October 2021

Blue Shield of California's Community Health Advocate Program was created to support whole person-health needs by helping individuals of all socio-economic statuses navigate and access community resources, social services, and medical systems. Blue Shield's Health Reimagined team is partnering with medical providers, community resources centers, and community partners to provide intensive person-centered and technology-enabled care to patients, ensuring social needs are met while promoting health equity. A key aspect of the Health Reimagined initiative embeds Community Health Advocates (CHAs) within physician practices serving patients using a payor-agnostic approach, by which Blue Shield aims to increase access to social services and community resources, improve health outcomes, reduce medical costs, and improve overall patient experience. The purpose of this case study is to understand the provider's perspective of embedding a CHA into the care team and the resulting impact on the practice and patients. Blue Shield also sought to identify best practices and barriers of a CHA program within primary and specialty care practices. As part of an ongoing two-year mixed-methods impact evaluation (2019–2021), 10 semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 18 providers and office staff at five primary care and specialty practices where CHAs have been embedded. We also conducted two focus groups with the same five CHAs at different points in time. Several themes emerged from the provider, office staff, and CHA interviews. Provider practices found great value in adding a CHA to their care team as the CHA brings flexibility and continuity to patient care. They also found that having access to a CHA with shared life experiences of the communities they served is a key component to the program's success. Providers and staff reported a new understanding of the social determinants of health that impacts a patient's wellbeing with the embedding of a CHA in the care team. Overall, practitioners expressed high satisfaction with the CHA program. During the COVID-19 pandemic, CHAs have been critically important in care, as social needs have increased, and resources have shifted. The CHA program is constantly adapting to address challenges faced by all stakeholders and applying new knowledge to ensure best practices are implemented within the CHA program.
Estimating the Number of Civilian Casualties in Modern Armed Conflicts–A Systematic Review
Authors: Khorram-Manesh Amir , Burkle Frederick M. , Goniewicz Krzysztof , Robinson Yohan
Published: October 2021

Objective:To examine the possibility of estimating the number of civilian casualties in modern armed conflicts.

Methods:A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science search engines. The outcome was analyzed using a qualitative inductive thematic analysis. The scientific evidence of selected article was assessed, using the Health Evidence Quality Assessment Tool.

Findings:The review of 66 included articles in this study indicates that with an increasing number of public health emergencies and the lack of vital elements of life such as water and food, emerging armed conflicts seem to be inevitable. In contrast to military-led cross-border traditional wars, modern armed conflicts affect internally on local communities and take civilian lives. Consequently, the measures and tools used in traditional military-led cross-border wars to adequately tally wounded and dead for many decades under the mandates of the International Humanitarian Law, is insufficient for modern warfare. While casualty counting during modern conflicts is deficient due to organizational, political or strategic reasons, the international organizations responsible for collecting such data (the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent and International Institute of Humanitarian Law) face difficulties to access the conflict scene, resulting in under-reported, unreliable or no-reported data.

Conclusion:There are challenges in estimating and counting the number of civilian casualties in modern warfare. Although the global need for such data is evident, the risks and barriers to obtaining such data should be recognized, and the need for new international involvement in future armed conflicts should be emphasized.
A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study of Integrated Pediatric Complex Care: Experiences of Parents With Care and the Value of Parent Engagement in Research
Authors: Hlyva Oksana , Rae Charlene , Deibert Shelby , Kamran Rakhshan , Shaikh Haniah , Thabane Lehana , Rosenbaum Peter , Klassen Anne , Lim Audrey
Published: October 2021

Introduction:Children with medical complexity (CMC) are among the most vulnerable children in society. These children and their families face challenges of fragmented care and are at risk for poorer health outcomes. Families with CMC play a vital role in providing care and navigating the complexities of healthcare systems. It is essential to understand the best ways to engage these families in research to improve the care and optimize the health of CMC.

Objectives:This study explored parent engagement within the context of a feasibility study evaluating an Integrated Tertiary Complex Care (ITCC) clinic created to support CMC closer to home. This paper aimed: (1) to understand the family experiences of care and (2) to explore parent engagement in the study.

Method:This mixed-methods feasibility study included three components. First, feedback from focus groups was used to identify the common themes that informed interviews with parents. Second, one-on-one interviews were conducted with parents to explore their experience with care, such as the ITCC clinic, using an interpretative description approach. Third, the questionnaires were completed by parents at baseline and 6-months post-baseline. These questionnaires included demographic and cost information and three validated scales designed to measure the caregiver strain, family-centered care, and parental health. The recruitment rate, percentage completion of the questionnaires, and open-ended comments were used to assess parent engagement in the study.

Results:The focus groups involved 24 parents, of which 19 (14 women, five men) provided comments. The findings identified the importance of Complex Care Team (CC Team) accessibility, local access, and family-centered approach to care. The challenges noted were access to homecare nursing, fatigue, and lack of respite affecting caregiver well-being. In this study, 17 parents participated in one-on-one interviews. The identified themes relevant to care experience were proximity, continuity, and coordination of care. The parents who received care through the ITCC clinic appreciated receiving care closer to home. The baseline questionnaires were completed by 44 of 77 (57%) eligible parents. Only 24 (31%) completed the 6-month questionnaire. The challenges with study recruitment and follow-up were identified.

Conclusion:Family engagement was a challenging yet necessary endeavor to understand how to tailor the healthcare to meet the complex needs of families caring for CMC.
Choosing Ethics Over Morals: A Possible Determinant to Embracing Artificial Intelligence in Future Urban Mobility
Authors: Kassens-Noor E. , Siegel Josh , Decaminada Travis
Published: October 2021

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming integral to human life, and the successful wide-scale uptake of autonomous and automated vehicles (AVs) will depend upon people's willingness to adopt and accept AI-based technology and its choices. A person's state of mind, a fundamental belief evolving out of an individual's character, personal choices, intrinsic motivation, and general way of life forming perceptions about how society should be governed, influences AVs perception. The state of mind includes perceptions about governance of autonomous vehicles' artificial intelligence (AVAI) and thus has an impact on a person's willingness to adopt and use AVs. However, one determinant of whether AVAI should be driven by society's ethics or the driver's morals, a “state of mind” variable, has not been studied. We asked 1,473 student, staff, and employee respondents at a university campus whether they prefer an AVAI learn their owners own personal morals (one's own principles) or adopt societal ethics (codes of conduct provided by an external source). Respondents were almost evenly split between whether AVAI should rely on ethics (45.6%) or morals (54.4%). Personal morals and societal ethics are not necessarily distinct and different. Sometimes both overlap and discrepancies are settled in court. However, with an AVAI these decision algorithms must be preprogrammed and the fundamental difference thus is whether an AI should learn from the individual driver (this is the status quo on how we drive today) or from society incorporating millions of drivers' choices. Both are bounded by law. Regardless, to successfully govern artificial intelligence in cities, policy-makers must thus bridge the deep divide between individuals who choose morals over ethics and vice versa.
Coffee as a Naturally Beneficial and Sustainable Ingredient in Personal Care Products: A Systematic Scoping Review of the Evidence
Authors: Carvalho Neto Dão Pedro de , Gonot-Schoupinsky Xavier P. , Gonot-Schoupinsky Freda N.
Published: October 2021

This systematic scoping review presents evidence from 52 primary research articles for the beneficial, and sustainable, use of coffee in personal care products. The identification and evaluation of natural ingredients that harbor bioactive compounds capable of supporting healthy personal care and protecting and improving the appearance and condition of skin and hair is topical. Demand for natural and sustainable ingredients in beauty and personal care products is driving growth in a market valued at over $500 billion. Coffee, as one of the world's favorite beverages, is widely studied for its internal benefits. External benefits, however, are less known. Here the potential of coffee and its by-products as ingredients in cosmetic and personal care formulations is explored. Diverse applications of a range of bioactive compounds from the coffee bean, leaves, and by-products, are revealed. Research is evaluated in light of economic and environmental issues facing the coffee industry. Many of the 25 million smallholder coffee farmers live in poverty and new markets may assist their economic health. Coffee by-products are another industry-wide problem, accounting for 8 million tons of residual waste per year. Yet these by-products can be a rich source of compounds. Our discussion highlights phenolic compounds, triacylglycerols, and caffeine for cosmetic product use. The use of coffee in personal care products can benefit consumers and industry players by providing natural, non-toxic ingredients and economic alternatives and environmental solutions to support sustainability within the coffee production chain. Database searches identified 772 articles. Of those included (k = 52), a minority (k = 10; N = 309) related to clinical trials and participant studies. Applications were classified, using the PERSOnal Care products and ingredients classification (PERSOC). Sustainability potential was evaluated with the Coffea Products Sustainability (COPS) model. Overall objectives of the systematic scoping review were to: (1) scope the literature to highlight evidence for the use of coffee constituents in externally applied personal care products, and (2) critically evaluate findings in view of sustainability concerns.
Giving Good Bacteria to Chickens to Keep Humans From Getting Sick
Authors: Mendoza Mary , Ali Rizwana , Roberts Natalie , Boop Lauren , Bedell Kristin , Rhew Brad , Hassan Hosni M. , Azcarate-Peril M. Andrea , Koci Matthew D.
Published: October 2021

The bacteria Salmonella is a major cause of food poisoning. Poultry products are one of the leading foods that cause Salmonella outbreaks. While farmers, food processors, and the public health community already do a lot to prevent these illnesses, people are still getting sick. Our group is studying how we can use the “good” bacteria in the intestines of chickens to drive Salmonella out of chickens. To test this idea, we used various diets to change the bacterial populations in chicken intestines. We found that changes in the numbers of good bacteria can lead to lower levels of Salmonella. We are currently working to identify which bacteria are responsible for the changes in the amount of Salmonella in the chicken intestines, with the goal of making a diet that will eliminate Salmonella from chickens. Hopefully, this will reduce the number of people who get sick from eating poultry products.
Free-Roaming Dog Surveys in Quito, Ecuador: Experiences, Lessons Learned, and Future Work
Authors: Cárdenas Max , Grijalva C. Jaime , de la Torre Stella
Published: October 2021

The selection of a survey method of free-roaming dog populations should be based on analyses of local capacities and management priorities. Here, we compare the results of surveys of the stray dog population in Quito, Ecuador, using two different methodologies and propose an alternative method for future surveys in the city. We carried out all surveys in ~5 km-transects in a sample of eight urban and eight rural parishes (16 transects total). In 2018, we used the capture-recapture method to estimate absolute population size and 95% CI. We began transect surveys at 04 h 00 (local time) and identified individuals with photographs. The main limitations of this method were errors in identifying individuals, since photographs were not always clear, partly due to low light conditions during the surveys. This method also required more time and more complex logistics. In 2019, we used distance sampling to estimate population density and began the surveys at 08 h 00 (local time). Errors in the estimation of animal-observer distances and angles were our main concern when using this method. For future surveys, we propose to carry out direct observations of dog abundance (number of free-roaming dogs/km) during street counts, complemented with capture-recapture surveys every 5 years. This alternative method albeit simple, is sensitive enough to (1) provide local authorities with objective assessments of management interventions, (2) better understanding the dynamics of free-roaming dog populations and (3) increasing public awareness about the problem of pet abandonment through citizen participation in the surveys.
A Linearly Involved Generalized Moreau Enhancement of ℓ2,1-Norm with Application to Weighted Group Sparse Classification
Authors: Chen Yang , Yamagishi Masao , Yamada Isao
Published: October 2021

This paper proposes a new group-sparsity-inducing regularizer to approximate ℓ2,0 pseudo-norm. The regularizer is nonconvex, which can be seen as a linearly involved generalized Moreau enhancement of ℓ2,1-norm. Moreover, the overall convexity of the corresponding group-sparsity-regularized least squares problem can be achieved. The model can handle general group configurations such as weighted group sparse problems, and can be solved through a proximal splitting algorithm. Among the applications, considering that the bias of convex regularizer may lead to incorrect classification results especially for unbalanced training sets, we apply the proposed model to the (weighted) group sparse classification problem. The proposed classifier can use the label, similarity and locality information of samples. It also suppresses the bias of convex regularizer-based classifiers. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed classifier improves the performance of convex ℓ2,1 regularizer-based methods, especially when the training data set is unbalanced. This paper enhances the potential applicability and effectiveness of using nonconvex regularizers in the frame of convex optimization.
Factors Influencing Wine Purchasing by Generation Y and Older Cohorts on the Serbian Wine Market
Authors: Balenović Ivan , Ignjatijević Svetlana , Stojanović Goran , Vapa Tankosić Jelena , Lekić Nemanja , Milutinović Olivera , Gajić Aleksandar , Ivaniš Miloš , Bošković Jelena , Prodanović Radivoj , Puvača Nikola , Duđak Ljubica
Published: October 2021

This research investigates current preferences in wine purchase patterns and factors that affect the online purchase of wine by Generation Y and older cohorts in the Republic of Serbia. Our research utilizes descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, the Mann–Whitney nonparametric test, and binary logistic regression. The results indicate that wine purchasing is conducted on an occasional basis—mostly monthly and weekly—with a tendency to buy wine throughout the whole year. The older cohort has a more pronounced rank, compared to Generation Y, regarding WTP for wines with a specific geographical origin and local wines. Although Generation Y and the older cohort have no habit of buying wine online, the information on geographical origin represents the most important online information related to online purchase intention. The strongest influence on online wine purchasing among members of the older cohort is a link that connects producers with consumers to allow the latter to obtain additional information and send remarks, suggestions, and/or praise, as well as a link to the winemakers’ association website, and the very significant influence of female gender. The strongest influence on online wine purchasing in Generation Y is the information on geographical origin. Female gender and income are also very significant. As wine consumption in the Republic of Serbia is gradually increasing, a growing interest in online wine purchases is expected. Our findings can provide useful information for building profiles of online wine consumers, depending on age cohort.
Skeletochronology and Paleohistology of Hyposaurus rogersii (Crocodyliformes, Dyrosauridae) from the Early Paleogene of New Jersey, USA
Authors: Pellegrini Rodrigo A. , Callahan Wayne R. , Hastings Alexander K. , Parris David C. , McCauley John D.
Published: October 2021

The paleohistology of dyrosaurids is known from a small sample, despite being common fossils and representing a rare lineage of crocodylomorphs that survived the Cretaceous–Paleogene extinction. Their lifestyle has been inferred only from sections of the snout, vertebrae, partial femur, and tibia. To improve this, we conducted a skeletochronological and paleohistological study of midshaft cross-sections of both femora and humeri of a nearly complete Hyposaurus rogersii skeleton. We found lamellar-zonal bone that underwent remodeling, evidenced by resorption cavities and abundant secondary osteons within the primary periosteal cortex. The osteons, mostly longitudinally oriented and arranged in circular rows, often anastomose radially along a linear path, resembling radial rows. The medullary cavity is completely open, lacking trabeculae: endosteal deposition is limited to thin lamellae surrounding the cavity. Analysis of cyclical growth marks and the presence of an external fundamental system indicate the specimen was a fully mature adult 17–18 years of age. Comparison of the skeleton to others suggests sexual dimorphism and that it was female. The open medullary cavity, and no evidence for pachyosteosclerosis, osteosclerosis, osteoporosis, or pachyostosis indicate H. rogersii was not a deep diver or a fast swimmer in the open ocean but a near-shore marine ambush predator.
Monitoring of the Reproductive Cycle in Captive-Bred Female Boa constrictor: Preliminary Ultrasound Observations
Authors: Bertocchi Mara , Bigliardi Enrico , Pelizzone Igor , Vetere Alessandro , Manfredi Sabrina , Cattarossi Diego , Rizzi Matteo , Di Ianni Francesco
Published: October 2021

The Boa constrictor is one of the most common reptiles bred in captivity. To achieve a successful breeding season, thorough knowledge of the females’ reproductive activity is necessary. In this regard, information on the Boa constrictor is still rather scarce. The aim of the present study was to monitor the ovarian activity and the embryonic development of boas by ultrasound. We performed brief scans on thirty non-anaesthetized snakes using a portable ultrasound system and a 7.5–10 MHz linear array transducer (Esaote MyLab™ Classic). Ultrasound features, dimensions, and echogenicity of the preovulatory and postovulatory follicles were determined. As gestation progresses, the postovulatory follicle size increases, and the embryonic silhouette becomes increasingly recognizable. During the second month after ovulation, by using color Doppler, early embryos’ heart activity could be evaluated. It is possible to highlight vascular connections between the mother and the membrane covering the embryonic structures. Ultrasound also allows one to identify follicular regression or slugs (nonfertilized eggs) early. The present study suggests that ultrasound could be an excellent noninvasive technique to evaluate the reproductive activity of Boa constrictor, allowing us to precisely identify the correct time for mating, monitor embryo development and viability, and allow the early diagnosis of follicular regression.
Identification of Reference Genes for Expression Studies in the Whole-Blood from Three Cattle Breeds under Two States of Livestock Weather Safety
Authors: Lozano-Villegas Kelly J. , Rodríguez-Hernández Roy , Herrera-Sánchez María P. , Uribe-García Heinner F. , Naranjo-Gómez Juan S. , Otero-Arroyo Rafael J. , Rondón-Barragán Iang S.
Published: October 2021

Real-time PCR is widely used to study the relative abundance of mRNA due to its specificity, sensitivity, and repeatability quantification. However, relative quantification requires a reference gene, which should be stable in its expression, showing lower variation by experimental conditions or tissues. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability of the expression of five commonly used reference genes (actb, ywhaz, b2m, sdha, and 18s rRNA) at different physiological stages (alert and emergency) in three different cattle breeds. In this study, five genes (actb, ywhaz, b2m, sdha, and 18s rRNA) were selected as candidate reference genes for expression studies in the whole blood from three cattle breeds (Romosinuano, Gyr, and Brahman) under heat stress conditions. The transcription stability of the candidate reference genes was evaluated using geNorm and NormFinder. The results showed that actb, 18SrRNA, and b2m expression were the most stable reference genes for whole blood of Gyr and Brahman breeds under two states of livestock weather safety (alert and emergency). Meanwhile, actb, b2m, and ywhaz were the most stable reference genes for the Romosinuano breed.
Antibacterial Profile of a Microbicidal Agent Targeting Tyrosine Phosphatases and Redox Thiols, Novel Drug Targets
Authors: White Kylie , Nicoletti Gina , Cornell Hugh
Published: October 2021

The activity profile of a protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) inhibitor and redox thiol oxidant, nitropropenyl benzodioxole (NPBD), was investigated across a broad range of bacterial species. In vitro assays assessed inhibitory and lethal activity patterns, the induction of drug variants on long term exposure, the inhibitory interactions of NPBD with antibiotics, and the effect of plasma proteins and redox thiols on activity. A literature review indicates the complexity of PTP and redox signaling and suggests likely metabolic targets. NPBD was broadly bactericidal to pathogens of the skin, respiratory, urogenital and intestinal tracts. It was effective against antibiotic resistant strains and slowly replicating and dormant cells. NPBD did not induce resistant or drug-tolerant phenotypes and showed low cross reactivity with antibiotics in synergy assays. Binding to plasma proteins indicated lowered in-vitro bioavailability and reduction of bactericidal activity in the presence of thiols confirmed the contribution of thiol oxidation and oxidative stress to lethality. This report presents a broad evaluation of the antibacterial effect of PTP inhibition and redox thiol oxidation, illustrates the functional diversity of bacterial PTPs and redox thiols, and supports their consideration as novel targets for antimicrobial drug development. NPBD is a dual mechanism agent with an activity profile which supports consideration of tyrosine phosphatases and bacterial antioxidant systems as promising targets for drug development.
The Blood–Brain Barrier, Oxidative Stress, and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Banks William A. , Rhea Elizabeth M.
Published: October 2021

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a network of specialized endothelial cells that regulates substrate entry into the central nervous system (CNS). Acting as the interface between the periphery and the CNS, the BBB must be equipped to defend against oxidative stress and other free radicals generated in the periphery to protect the CNS. There are unique features of brain endothelial cells that increase the susceptibility of these cells to oxidative stress. Insulin signaling can be impacted by varying levels of oxidative stress, with low levels of oxidative stress being necessary for signaling and higher levels being detrimental. Insulin must cross the BBB in order to access the CNS, levels of which are important in peripheral metabolism as well as cognition. Any alterations in BBB transport due to oxidative stress at the BBB could have downstream disease implications. In this review, we cover the interactions of oxidative stress at the BBB, how insulin signaling is related to oxidative stress, and the impact of the BBB in two diseases greatly affected by oxidative stress and insulin resistance: diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer’s disease.
Oleuropein Enhances Stress Resistance and Extends Lifespan via Insulin/IGF-1 and SKN-1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Feng Shiling , Zhang Chunyan , Chen Tao , Zhou Lijun , Huang Yan , Yuan Ming , Li Tian , Ding Chunbang
Published: October 2021

Oleuropein (OLE) is a secoiridoid glycoside that mainly exists in olives with multifaceted health benefits. The present study aimed to investigate the stress resistance and lifespan extension effects of OLE in Caenorhabditis elegans. The results showed that OLE could significantly prolong the lifespan of C. elegans by 22.29%. Treatment with OLE also significantly increased the survival rates of worms against lethal heat shock and oxidative stress. Meanwhile, OLE supplementation increased the expression and activity of antioxidant enzymes and suppressed the generation of malondialdehyde in nematodes. In addition, the results from mutants implied that OLE might mediate longevity and stress resistance via DAF-16/FoxO, which played a vital role in the insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway. To further identify the molecular targets of OLE, mRNA level and loss-of-function mutants of IIS-associated genes were investigated. The data revealed that OLE activated IIS by down-regulating the upstream components, daf-2 and age-1. Furthermore, another stress response and longevity pathway in parallel to DAF-16, SKN-1/Nrf2, was also shown to involve in OLE-induced beneficial effects. Collectively, these results provide the theoretical basis that OLE could enhance the stress resistance and increase the lifespan of C. elegans through the IIS and SKN-1/Nrf2 signaling pathways.
Phenolic Compounds in Honey and Their Relationship with Antioxidant Activity, Botanical Origin, and Color
Authors: Becerril-Sánchez Ana L. , Quintero-Salazar Baciliza , Dublán-García Octavio , Escalona-Buendía Héctor B.
Published: October 2021

Honey has been employed since antiquity due to its sensory, nutritional, and therapeutic properties. These characteristics are related to its physical and chemical composition. For example, phenolic compounds are substances that can determine antioxidant activity, as well as sensory characteristics, and can be employed as biomarkers of floral and geographical origin. This has generated a growing interest in the study of phenolic compounds and their influence in the intrinsic properties of this beekeeping product. This review aims to summarize, analyze, and update the status of the research that demonstrates the role of phenolic compounds in antioxidant activity, botanical-geographical origin, and the sensory characteristics of honey. These phenolic compounds, according to various results reported, have great relevance in honey’s biological and functional activity. This leads to research that will link phenolic compounds to their floral, geographical, productive, and territorial origin, as well as some sensory and functional characteristics.
Induction of the Nrf2 Pathway by Sulforaphane Is Neuroprotective in a Rat Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Model
Authors: Sandouka Sereen , Shekh-Ahmad Tawfeeq
Published: October 2021

Epilepsy is a chronic disease of the brain that affects over 65 million people worldwide. Acquired epilepsy is initiated by neurological insults, such as status epilepticus, which can result in the generation of ROS and induction of oxidative stress. Suppressing oxidative stress by upregulation of the transcription factor, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) has been shown to be an effective strategy to increase endogenous antioxidant defences, including in brain diseases, and can ameliorate neuronal damage and seizure occurrence in epilepsy. Here, we aim to test the neuroprotective potential of a naturally occurring Nrf2 activator sulforaphane, in in vitro epileptiform activity model and a temporal lobe epilepsy rat model. Sulforaphane significantly decreased ROS generation during epileptiform activity, restored glutathione levels, and prevented seizure-like activity-induced neuronal cell death. When given to rats after 2 h of kainic acid-induced status epilepticus, sulforaphane significantly increased the expression of Nrf2 and related antioxidant genes, improved oxidative stress markers, and increased the total antioxidant capacity in both the plasma and hippocampus. In addition, sulforaphane significantly decreased status epilepticus-induced neuronal cell death. Our results demonstrate that Nrf2 activation following an insult to the brain exerts a neuroprotective effect by reducing neuronal death, increasing the antioxidant capacity, and thus may also modify epilepsy development.
Is There a Glutathione Centered Redox Dysregulation Subtype of Schizophrenia?
Authors: Palaniyappan Lena , Park Min Tae M. , Jeon Peter , Limongi Roberto , Yang Kun , Sawa Akira , Théberge Jean
Published: October 2021

Schizophrenia continues to be an illness with poor outcome. Most mechanistic changes occur many years before the first episode of schizophrenia; these are not reversible after the illness onset. A developmental mechanism that is still modifiable in adult life may center on intracortical glutathione (GSH). A large body of pre-clinical data has suggested the possibility of notable GSH-deficit in a subgroup of patients with schizophrenia. Nevertheless, studies of intracortical GSH are not conclusive in this regard. In this review, we highlight the recent ultra-high field magnetic resonance spectroscopic studies linking GSH to critical outcome measures across various stages of schizophrenia. We discuss the methodological steps required to conclusively establish or refute the persistence of GSH-deficit subtype and clarify the role of the central antioxidant system in disrupting the brain structure and connectivity in the early stages of schizophrenia. We propose in-vivo GSH quantification for patient selection in forthcoming antioxidant trials in psychosis. This review offers directions for a promising non-dopaminergic early intervention approach in schizophrenia.
Whey Protein Isolate-Xylose Maillard-Based Conjugates with Tailored Microencapsulation Capacity of Flavonoids from Yellow Onions Skins
Authors: Milea Ștefania Adelina , Aprodu Iuliana , Enachi Elena , Barbu Vasilica , Râpeanu Gabriela , Bahrim Gabriela Elena , Stănciuc Nicoleta
Published: October 2021

The objective of this study is to encapsulate flavonoids from yellow onion skins in whey protein isolates (WPI) and xylose (X), by Maillard-based conjugates, as an approach to improve the ability to entrap flavonoids and to develop powders with enhanced antioxidant activity. WPI (0.6%, w/v) was conjugated to X (0.3%, w/v) through the Maillard reaction at 90 °C for 120 min, in the presence of a flavonoid-enriched extract. Two variants of powders were obtained by freeze-drying. The glycation of WPI allowed a better encapsulation efficiency, up to 90.53 ± 0.29%, corresponding to a grafting degree of 30.38 ± 1.55%. The molecular modelling approach was used to assess the impact of X interactions with α-lactalbumin and β-lactoglobulin on the ability of these proteins to bind the main flavonoids from the yellow onion skins. The results showed that X might compete with quercetin glucosides to bind with α-lactalbumin. No interference was found in the case of β-lactoglobulin. The microstructural appearance of the powders revealed finer spherosomes in powder with WPI–X conjugates via the Maillard reaction. The powders were added to nachos, followed by a phytochemical characterization, in order to test their potential added value. An increase in antioxidant activity was observed, with no significant changes during storage.