bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Brief Sleep Intervention Designed to Improve the Sleep, Mood, and Cognitive Performance of Esports Athletes
Authors: Bonnar Daniel , Lee Sangha , Roane Brandy M. , Blum Daniel J. , Kahn Michal , Jang Eunhee , Dunican Ian C. , Gradisar Michael , Suh Sooyeon
Published: April 2022

This study evaluated a brief sleep intervention designed to improve the sleep, mood, and cognitive performance of professional electronic sports (esports) athletes from three major esports regions (i.e., Asia, North America, and Oceania). Fifty-six esports athletes from South Korea (N = 34), the United States (N = 7), and Australia (N = 15) completed the study. Participants completed an initial 2-week pre-intervention phase to establish a baseline, followed by a 2-week intervention phase that involved a group sleep education class, 1:1 session with a trained clinical psychologist, and daily biofeedback. A wrist activity monitor and daily sleep diary were used to monitor sleep during both phases, while at pre- and post-intervention, participants completed a battery of sleep and mood questionnaires and underwent cognitive performance testing. Sleep knowledge increased from pre- to post-intervention (d = 0.83 [95% CI −1.21, −0.43], p =< 0.001), while there were modest improvements in sleep diary estimates (i.e., sleep onset latency (Mdiff = −2.9 min, p = 0.02), sleep onset time (Mdiff = −12 min, p = 0.03), and sleep efficiency (Mdiff = 1.1%, p = 0.004)) and wrist activity monitor estimates (i.e., sleep onset time (Mdiff = −18 min, p = 0.01)). Insomnia severity scores decreased significantly (d = 0.47 [95% CI 0.08, 0.84], p = 0.001), while sleepiness scores increased but not meaningfully (d = 0.23 [95% CI −0.61, 0.14], p = 0.025). However, there was no significant change in mood (i.e., depression and anxiety) or cognitive performance scores (i.e., mean reaction time or lapses). Sleep interventions for esports athletes require further investigation. Future research should examine whether a stepped-care model, whereby increasing therapeutic input is provided as needed, can optimize sleep, mood, and cognitive performance outcomes.
Bioactive Compounds for Fibromyalgia-like Symptoms: A Narrative Review and Future Perspectives
Authors: Shen Chwan-Li , Schuck Alexis , Tompkins Christina , Dunn Dale M. , Neugebauer Volker
Published: April 2022

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a prevalent, chronic condition without a cure or reliable therapy. The etiopathogenesis of this syndrome is ambiguous, which has heightened the challenge of discovering treatments to minimize patients’ painful symptoms. FM is characterized by diffuse musculoskeletal pain usually accompanied by functional pain syndromes, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and mood issues. Currently available treatment options for FM are limited. Recent studies have suggested a potential role for dietary bioactive compounds in FM management. We performed a narrative review to evaluate the existing evidence regarding the dietary bioactive compounds for FM, and we proposed molecular mechanisms on this topic. The inclusion criteria were (i) human, in vivo, or in vitro studies, (ii) studies related to the effect of bioactive compounds on FM-like symptoms, (iii) peer-reviewed literature, and (iv) publications until February 2022 in PubMed and Google Scholar. Exclusion criteria were (i) study designs using CCI, SNI, or SNL models because they are more NP models rather than FM models, and (ii) studies published in a language other than English. Keywords were dietary bioactive compounds, fibromyalgia, cell, animals, humans. Here, we report the effects of commonly consumed bioactive compounds (capsaicin, ginger, curcumin, n-3 PUFA, grape seed extract, naringin, and genistein) on FM-like symptoms in cellular, animal, and human studies. Cellular studies demonstrated that these bioactive compounds reduce pro-inflammatory production and increase antioxidant capacity of neurons or myoblasts that regulate apoptosis/cell survival. Animal studies showed that these regularly consumed bioactive compounds have an effect on FM-like symptoms, as evidenced by decreased pain hypersensitivity and fatigue as well as improved social behaviors. Further studies are warranted to allow meaningful comparison and quantification of the efficacy of these bioactive compounds on FM-like symptoms across studies, in terms of actual changes in antioxidant capacity, pain hypersensitivity, fatigue, and social behaviors. To date, human studies regarding the efficacy of these bioactive compounds on FM-like symptoms are limited and inconclusive. Our review identifies this important knowledge gap and proposes that the development and use of improved preclinical FM models are needed, particularly concerning the usage of female animals to better mimic FM pathophysiology and symptomatology.
How Do Self-Esteem, Dispositional Hope, Crisis Self-Efficacy, Mattering, and Gender Differences Affect Teacher Resilience during COVID-19 School Closures?
Authors: Baguri Ezza Mad , Roslan Samsilah , Hassan Siti Aishah , Krauss Steven Eric , Zaremohzzabieh Zeinab
Published: April 2022

(1) Background: The closure of schools and the transition to online teaching because of the COVID-19 pandemic’s restrictions have resulted in significant changes in the workplace. Consequently, several resilience strategies have been implemented, and chief among them focus on the topic of burnout and coping abilities; (2) Purpose: Thus, this study investigates the influence of self-esteem, dispositional hope, and mattering on teacher resilience, and how crisis self-efficacy and gender differences mediate and moderate the relationships among associated variables. (3) Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with a cluster random sampling. A total of 248 secondary school teachers in Malaysia participated in this study. Questions were first transferred and formatted using a template of a commercial internet survey provider. Then, the university’s online learning platform was used both as a questionnaire distribution channel and a data collection method. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) with a partial least squares method; (4) Results: The findings of this study revealed that self-esteem, dispositional hope, and mattering significantly influence teacher resilience, and crisis self-efficacy mediates the impact of self-esteem and dispositional hope on teacher resilience. In some instances, the results also showed that gender has a moderating effect on teacher resilience during the pandemic; (5) Conclusions: This study used psychological factors to understand teacher resilience and incorporated crisis self-efficacy into teacher resilience research. It is one of the very few studies in resilience literature to investigate the moderating role of gender on teacher resilience.
Types and Distribution of Organic Amines in Organic Nitrogen Deposition in Strategic Water Sources
Authors: Yang Yixuan , Zhao Tongqian , Jiao Huazhe , Wu Li , Xiao Chunyan , Guo Xiaoming
Published: April 2022

Organic nitrogen (ON) is an important part of atmospheric nitrogen deposition, but the content and distribution of components other than urea and amino acids are the blind area of current research. The deposition of organic amines (OA) in strategic water sources poses a great public health risk to unspecified populations. In order to further reveal the composition of about 50% soluble organic nitrogen, besides urea and amino acids, five functional sampling points (such as industrial area, agricultural area, urban area, tourism area and forest area) were set in the reservoir area to detect dissolved total nitrogen (DTN), dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) and OA components. The results show that the total nitrogen concentration was 6.42–10.82 mg/m3 and the DON concentration was 2.77–4.99 mg/m3. Ten kinds of OA were detected: dimethylamine (DMA), diethylamine (DEA), propylamine (PA), butylamine (BA), pyrrolidine (PYR), dibutylamine (DBA), N-methylaniline (NMA), 2-ethylaniline (2-ELA), benzylamine (BMA), and 4-ethylaniline (4-ELA). The average concentrations were 7.64, 26.35, 14.51, 14.10, 18.55, 7.92, 10.56, 12.84, 13.46 and 21.00 ng/m3, respectively. The total concentration of ten OA accounted for 2.28–9.81% of DON in the current month, of which the content of DEA was the highest, reaching 0.71%, the content of 4-ELA, PYR, PA and BA was 0.4–0.56%, and the content of DMA, DBA and NMA was 0.2–0.36%. The sources of OA in the reservoir area have significant seasonal differences. The content is the highest in spring, followed by autumn, and lower in summer and winter. The rainfall in spring and autumn is small, the source of road dust is relatively high, and the rainfall in summer is large. After the particles in the air are washed by rain, the concentration of OA in the sample is the lowest. On account of spring and autumn being the time of frequent agricultural activities, the concentration of OA is significantly higher than that in winter and summer.
Industrial Transformation and Urban Economic Efficiency Evolution: An Empirical Study of the Yangtze River Economic Belt
Authors: Dong Yin , Guo Baishu , He Dawei , Liao Xiaoli , Zhang Zhengyu , Wu Xueqin
Published: April 2022

Industrial transformation and high-quality urban development have become the core issues of urban-rural coordination and the leap forward in development in the new era. The research perspective of ‘pattern-process-mechanism’ is needed to reveal the spatiotemporal correlation characteristics of industrial transformation and urban economic efficiency evolution, and to expand its systematic, comprehensive and regional characteristics. Based on the geographical cognitive of local effects and spatial non-stationarity, we used a quantile regression model and a geographically weighted regression model to analyze the dynamic mechanism of industrial transformation and urban economic efficiency to explain the path characteristics of urban development and industrial transformation of the Yangtze River economic belt. The conclusions are as follows: (1) From 2000 to 2015, the average economic efficiency in the Yangtze River economic belt increased from 0.05 to 0.332, and the pattern gradually changed from spatial homogeneity to spatial mosaic; (2) From 2000 to 2015, the range and intensity of industrial transformation in the Yangtze River economic belt showed an increasing trend, while the speed of industrial transformation showed a downward trend, and the high-value unit of the three showed the characteristics of gradual homogenization; (3) From the perspective of the impact of industrial transformation on urban economic efficiency, the impact of the range and speed of industrial transformation on urban economic efficiency was gradually weakened, while the impact of the intensity of industrial transformation on urban economic efficiency was gradually strengthened, and the patterns of the three show the characteristics of a spatially inverted U-shaped distribution with high values in the middle reaches and low values in the upstream and downstream areas.
Single-Pill Combination to Improve Hypertension Treatment: Pharmaceutical Industry Development
Authors: Paczkowska-Walendowska Magdalena , Sip Szymon , Staszewski Rafał , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta
Published: April 2022

Multiple illness is an increasingly common phenomenon. Its consequence is the need for polytherapy, which is particularly common among people suffering from arterial hypertension. The development of combined preparations (containing at least two API-active pharmaceutical ingredients) dedicated to the treatment of hypertension is a response to increased compliance, especially in elderly patients. In our work, we describe in particular the possibilities of using β-adrenergic receptors blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in combinations. The combinations of APIs are used as single pills in patients with arterial hypertension with concomitant diseases such as hyperlipidemia; blood coagulation problems and diabetes mellitus were also discussed successively. Pharmacoeconomic analysis for the API combinations shown is also presented. As a final conclusion, numerous benefits of using the combined preparations should be indicated, especially by the elderly and/or in patients with coexistence of other diseases.
Association between Changes in the Regularity of Working Hours and Cognitive Impairment in Middle-Aged and Older Korean Workers: The Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging, 2008–2018
Authors: Lee Won-Tae , Lim Sung-Shil , Yoon Jin-Ha , Won Jong-Uk
Published: April 2022

Changes in the regularity of working hours affect the cognitive function of middle-aged workers. This study investigated the association between alterations in the regularity of working hours and cognitive impairment in middle-aged and elderly Korean workers. The data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging were analyzed and cognitive function was evaluated using the Korean version of the mini–mental state examination. A score of <23 points was defined as cognitive impairment. The effect of changes in the regularity of working hours on cognitive impairment development was assessed using the generalized estimating equation model. Compared with regular working hours group, the odds ratios (ORs; 95% confidence interval) of the “consistently irregular”, “regular to irregular”, and “irregular to regular” groups were 1.56 (1.30–1.88), 1.46 (1.20–1.77), and 1.24 (1.01–1.53), respectively. The risk of cognitive deterioration was found in the “consistently irregular” group. However, only workers with normal working hours in the “regular to irregular” group had a significant risk of cognitive deterioration (1.51 (1.21–1.89)). Altered working hours were associated with cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older workers. The study emphasizes the need to implement a standard work schedule that is suitable for middle-aged workers.
Effect of Bacillus subtilis Zeolite Used for Sediment Remediation on Sulfide, Phosphate, and Nitrogen Control in a Microcosm
Authors: Patil Maheshkumar Prakash , Jeong Ilwon , Woo Hee-Eun , Oh Seok-Jin , Kim Hyung Chul , Kim Kyeongmin , Nakashita Shinya , Kim Kyunghoi
Published: April 2022

Eutrophication is an emerging worldwide issue concerning the excessive accumulation of various pollutants in sediments, owing to the release of industrial or household wastewaters to coastal areas. The coastal sediment of Goseong Bay in the Republic of Korea is organically enriched with pollutants, including heavy metals, sulfide, phosphate, and ammonia. Microbial remediation and capping techniques have been suggested as effective routes for sediment remediation. In this study, Bacillus subtilis zeolite (BZ) was used as a sediment capping material, and effective remediation of coastal sediment was observed in a 40-day laboratory microcosm experiment. A significant decrease in the sediment water content and reduced concentration of acid volatile sulfide were observed in the BZ-capped sediment. In the overlying water and pore water, significant decreases in phosphate and dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN; NO2-N + NO3-N and NH4-N) concentrations were observed in the BZ-treated experiment. Based on our findings, we conclude that BZ could be an effective capping material for coastal sediment remediation.
Harmful Effect of Intrauterine Smoke Exposure on Neuronal Control of “Fetal Breathing System” in Stillbirths
Authors: Lavezzi Anna M. , Pusiol Teresa , Paradiso Beatrice
Published: April 2022

This article is aimed to contribute to the current knowledge on the role of toxic substances such as nicotine on sudden intrauterine unexplained deaths’ (SIUDS’) pathogenetic mechanisms. The in-depth histopathological examination of the autonomic nervous system in wide groups of victims of SIUDS (47 cases) and controls (20 cases), with both smoking and no-smoking mothers, highlighted the frequent presence of the hypodevelopment of brainstem structures checking the vital functions. In particular, the hypoplasia of the pontine parafacial nucleus together with hypoplastic lungs for gestational age were observed in SIUDS cases with mothers who smoked cigarettes, including electronic ones. The results allow us to assume that the products of cigarette smoke during pregnancy can easily cross the placental barrier, thus entering the fetal circulation and damaging the most sensitive organs, such as lungs and brain. In a non-negligible percentage of SIUDS, the mothers did not smoke. Furthermore, based on previous and ongoing studies conducted through analytical procedures and the use of scanning electron microscopy, the authors envisage the involvement of toxic nanoparticles (such as agricultural pesticides and nanomaterials increasingly used in biomedicine, bioscience and biotechnology) in the death pathogenesis, with similar mechanisms to those of nicotine.
Neurologists’ Knowledge, Practice, and Attitudes towards Pharmacovigilance and Adverse Drug Reactions Reporting Process in Epileptic Patients—Comparative Analysis from Poland and Egypt
Authors: Kopciuch Dorota , Kamal Nashwa Nabil , Kamal Nashaat Nabil , Hamdy Nermin Aly , Paczkowska Anna , Zaprutko Tomasz , Ratajczak Piotr , Fliciński Jędrzej , Kus Krzysztof , Nowakowska Elżbieta
Published: April 2022

Objectives: To compare neurologists’ knowledge, practice, and barriers of pharmacovigilance (PV) process among patients with epilepsy in Poland and Egypt. Methods: It was an international study that used an online questionnaire e-mailed to neurologists registered to practice in Poland and Egypt. Results: Most of the neurologists were familiar with the definition of PV and adverse drug reactions (ADRs), but relatively few neurologists knew where to report ADRs, especially the Egyptian neurologists. Only 31.11% of the neurologists from Egypt and 39.90% neurologists from Poland declared that they had reported ADRs at least once during their professional practice, and few of them declared the regular reporting of such incidents. The main reason for the neurologists not reporting ADRs was the lack of time and a conviction that reporting ADRs would be an additional burden that would generate extra work. Conclusion: The standards of pharmacovigilance process, safety control, and quality are not the same throughout the world. System-regulated PV stabilization in a country translates into the practice of maintaining PV. Monitoring the safety of pharmacotherapy and knowledge of risks associated with ADRs should be included in the academic curricula of physician courses.
Relationships between Recreation and Pollution When Striving for Wellbeing in Blue Spaces
Authors: Evers Clifton , Phoenix Cassandra
Published: April 2022

Our aim for this research was to identify and examine how recreation enthusiasts cope with and mitigate the violence of pollution as they strive for wellbeing in polluted “blue spaces” (e.g., seas, oceans). Our methodology to undertake the research was ethnography (online and offline), including autoethnography and informal interviews (40). The study proceeded from a constructivist epistemology which emphasizes that knowledge is situated and perspectival. The study site was a post-industrial area of northeast England where a long-standing but also rapidly growing surfing culture has to live with pollution (legacy and ongoing). We found evidence of what have become quotidian tactics that attach to themes of familiarity, embodiment, resignation, denial, and affect/emotion used by enthusiasts to cope with and mitigate the violence of pollution. We argue that by necessity some surfers are persisting in striving for wellbeing not simply in spite of pollution but rather with pollution. We assert surfers enact a “resigned activism” that influences their persistence. We extend critical scholarship concerning relationships between recreation, blue spaces, and wellbeing by moving beyond a restrictive binary of focusing on either threats and risks or opportunities and benefits of blue space to health and wellbeing, instead showing how striving for wellbeing through recreation in the presence of pollution provides evidence of how such efforts are more negotiated, fluid, situated, uncertain, dissonant, and even political than any such binary structure allows for.
Green Transformational Leadership and Employees’ Taking Charge Behavior: The Mediating Role of Personal Initiative and the Moderating Role of Green Organizational Identity
Authors: Du Yuechao , Yan Minghao
Published: April 2022

The green transformation of organizations requires employees not only to achieve environmentally friendly workflows within their duties, but also to go beyond their own current work and take personal initiative to realize the organizational goals. Employees’ taking charge behavior is a type of extra-role behavior that influences organizational change through constructive efforts. How can leaders increase employees’ environmental responsibility and efficiently promote their taking charge behaviors to help organizations make green changes? Based on self-determination theory and related research on green transformational leadership, this study explores the mechanisms and boundary conditions of how green transformational leadership influences employees’ taking charge behavior. Data were obtained through two-stage questionnaire surveys from 429 employees in Chinese manufacturing enterprises. The results show that green transformational leadership has a significantly positive impact on employees’ taking charge behavior and that personal initiative plays a mediating role. Furthermore, green organizational identity moderates the positive influence of green transformational leadership on employees’ personal initiative, and consequently, their taking charge behavior. These findings have theoretical implications for the green transformational leadership literature and managerial implications for practitioners.
A Study on the Impact of Institutional Pressure on Carbon Information Disclosure: The Mediating Effect of Enterprise Peer Influence
Authors: Tang Yongjun , Zhu Jun , Ma Wenchao , Zhao Mengxue
Published: April 2022

Enterprises should bear the main responsibility for greenhouse gas emissions. Disclosing carbon emission information is one of the important ways for enterprises to deal with climate change. Taking China’s A-share listed companies from 2014 to 2018 as the research sample, we study the impact of external explicit institutional pressure and implicit institutional pressure on corporate carbon information disclosure and analyze the mediating effect of enterprise peer influence in carbon disclosure. The empirical results show that external institutional pressure, namely environmental regulation and Confucian culture, has a significant positive impact on enterprise carbon information disclosure. Enterprise peer influence has a certain mediating effect between external institutional pressure and carbon information disclosure. The government should formulate and improve the carbon information disclosure institution and strengthen external supervision through the joint participation of all sectors of society.
Occupational Exposure of Hairdressers to Airborne Hazardous Chemicals: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kezic Sanja , Nunez Roberto , Babić Željka , Hallmann Sarah , Havmose Martin S. , Johansen Jeanne D. , John Swen M. , Macan Marija , Symanzik Cara , Uter Wolfgang , Weinert Patricia , Turk Rajka , Macan Jelena , van der Molen Henk F.
Published: April 2022

Introduction: Exposure to hazardous chemicals released during hairdressing activities from hair care products puts hairdressers at risk of adverse health effects. Safety assessments of hair products are mainly focused on consumers, but exposure for professional hairdressers might be substantially higher. Objective: To identify and assess available research data on inhalation exposures of professional hairdressers. Methods: A systematic search of studies between 1 January 2000 and 30 April 2021 was performed in Medline, Embase, Web of Science and in Cochrane registry, toxicological dossiers of the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) of the European Commission as well as the German MAK Commission. Studies reporting quantitative data on airborne concentrations of chemicals in the hairdresser’s workplace were considered. The outcome was an airborne concentration of chemicals in the working environment, which was compared, when possible, with current occupational exposure limits (OEL) or guidance levels. Results: In total, 23 studies performed in 14 countries were included. The average number of hairdressing salons per study was 22 (range 1–62). Chemicals most frequently measured were formaldehyde (n = 8), ammonia (n = 5), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) (n = 5), and toluene (n = 4). More than fifty other chemicals were measured in one to three studies, including various aromatic and aliphatic organic solvents, hydrogen peroxide, persulfate, and particulate matter. Most studies reported environmental air concentrations, while personal exposure was measured only in seven studies. The measured air concentrations of formaldehyde, ammonia, and TVOC exceeded OEL or guidance values in some studies. There was large variability in measuring conditions and reported air concentrations differed strongly within and between studies. Conclusion: Hairdressers are exposed to a wide spectrum of hazardous chemicals, often simultaneously. Airborne concentrations of pollutants depend on salon characteristics such as ventilation and the number of customers but also on used products that are often country- or client-specific. For exposure to formaldehyde, ammonia, and TVOC exceeding OELs or guidance values for indoor air was observed. Therefore, occupational exposure should be taken into account by safety regulations for hair care products.
A Comparison of Pre-Emptive Co-Amoxiclav, Postoperative Amoxicillin, and Metronidazole for Prevention of Postoperative Complications in Dentoalveolar Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gazal Giath , Al-Samadani Khalid H. , Alsaidalani Hamdi Mohammed , Karbouji Ghofran Ali , Alharbi Abdullah Mohammed
Published: April 2022

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of different oral antibiotics for prevention of dry socket and infection in adults following the surgical extraction of teeth under LA. Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted from 10 September 2020 until 10 May 2021. Forty-six patients were randomly allocated to three groups. Sixteen patients were in the postoperative co-amoxiclav (625 mg) group, fifteen in the preoperative co-amoxiclav (625 mg) plus postoperative metronidazole (500 mg) group and fifteen in the preoperative co-amoxiclav (625 mg) plus postoperative amoxicillin (500 mg) group. Evaluation of the postoperative signs of alveolar osteitis and infection was made by a dental surgeon five days postoperatively. Evaluation of the post-surgical extraction pain was made by patients immediately and five days postoperatively on standard 100 mm visual analogue scales (VAS). Furthermore, difficulty of surgery was recorded for all patients immediately postoperatively using (VAS). Results: all antibiotics used in this study were effective. Only 15% of patients had painful alveolar osteitis and 2% had oral infections. There was no significant decrease in the number of patients with severe alveolar osteitis or infection for co-amoxiclav plus metronidazole and co-amoxiclav plus amoxicillin groups compared to co-amoxiclav group at 5 days post-operation (p-values: 0.715, 0.819 & 0.309). Clinically, metronidazole was more effective in protecting the extracted tooth socket from alveolar osteitis compared to co-amoxiclav and amoxicillin. Moreover, there were significant decreases in mean pain scores at 5 days post-operation compared with the levels of pain immediately after surgery (p-value: 0.001). Conclusions: Administration of a single preoperative dose of co-amoxiclav with a full postoperative dose of amoxicillin or metronidazole was more effective than conventional treatment with postoperative co-amoxilcalv in reducing the incidence of both alveolar osteitis and infection after surgical extractions. However, these differences were not statistically significant. Interestingly, patients in metronidazole group had the lowest incidence of dry socket.
Adoption of Health Mobile Apps during the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Health Belief Model Approach
Authors: Alharbi Nouf Sahal , AlGhanmi Amany Shlyan , Fahlevi Mochammad
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to investigate the adoption of the Sehha, Mawid, and Tetamman mobile health applications during the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia. The present study investigated factors influencing app use intention based on the Health Belief Model (HBM) approach. This study was conducted using a sample of 176 participants from the Riyadh and Makkah regions during the lockdown in May 2020. This study uses structural equation modeling for data collected using SmartPLS 3.3.9 (GmbH, Oststeinbek, Germany) to examine the effect of constructs on the model. The most important predictor was the perceived benefits of the mobile health apps, followed by self-efficacy. The perceived barriers and cues to action have no significant effect on behavioral intention. The perceived benefits and self-efficacy as keys can provide an overview to the government and to health organizations for taking into account the most important factors of the adoption of mobile health apps, meaning that the developer must adjust to the characteristics of the community of people that need applications that provide many benefits and have an impact.
Health Literacy-Sensitive Counselling on Early Childhood Allergy Prevention: Results of a Qualitative Study on German Midwives’ Perspectives
Authors: von Sommoggy Julia , Grepmeier Eva-Maria , Curbach Janina
Published: April 2022

In Germany, midwives are involved in extensive antenatal and postnatal care. As health professionals, they can play a key role in strengthening health literacy (HL) of parents on how to prevent chronic allergic diseases in their children. The objective of this study is to explore midwives’ perspectives regarding HL-sensitive counselling in early childhood allergy prevention (ECAP). Twenty-four qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with midwives, and data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Only a small number of study participants were aware of HL as a concept. However, most of these use screening and counselling strategies which consider individual information needs and which support parental HL. HL sensitivity in counselling is largely based on the midwives’ “gut feelings” and counselling experience, rather than on formal education. The midwives were largely aware of evidence-based ECAP recommendations; however, allergy prevention was not seen as a stand-alone topic but as part of their general counselling on infant feeding and hygiene. They found parents to be more open to receiving complex prevention information during antenatal counselling. In order to strengthen midwives’ roles in HL-sensitive ECAP counselling, their formal education should provide them with explicit HL knowledge and counselling skills. ECAP should be an inherent part of antenatal care.
Fecal Microbiota Transplant in a Pre-Clinical Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Obesity and Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Bastos Rosana M. C. , Simplício-Filho Antônio , Sávio-Silva Christian , Oliveira Luiz Felipe V. , Cruz Giuliano N. F. , Sousa Eliza H. , Noronha Irene L. , Mangueira Cristóvão L. P. , Quaglierini-Ribeiro Heloísa , Josefi-Rocha Gleice R. , Rangel Érika B.
Published: April 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) burden encompasses diabetic kidney disease (DKD), the leading cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide. Despite compelling evidence indicating that pharmacological intervention curtails DKD progression, the search for non-pharmacological strategies can identify novel targets for drug development against metabolic diseases. One of those emergent strategies comprises the modulation of the intestinal microbiota through fecal transplant from healthy donors. This study sought to investigate the benefits of fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) on functional and morphological parameters in a preclinical model of type 2 DM, obesity, and DKD using BTBRob/ob mice. These animals develop hyperglycemia and albuminuria in a time-dependent manner, mimicking DKD in humans. Our main findings unveiled that FMT prevented body weight gain, reduced albuminuria and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels within the ileum and ascending colon, and potentially ameliorated insulin resistance in BTBRob/ob mice. Intestinal structural integrity was maintained. Notably, FMT was associated with the abundance of the succinate-consuming Odoribacteraceae bacteria family throughout the intestine. Collectively, our data pointed out the safety and efficacy of FMT in a preclinical model of type 2 DM, obesity, and DKD. These findings provide a basis for translational research on intestinal microbiota modulation and testing its therapeutic potential combined with current treatment for DM.
Metastasis and MAPK Pathways
Authors: Kciuk Mateusz , Gielecińska Adrianna , Budzinska Adrianna , Mojzych Mariusz , Kontek Renata
Published: April 2022

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. In many cases, the treatment of the disease is limited due to the metastasis of cells to distant locations of the body through the blood and lymphatic drainage. Most of the anticancer therapeutic options focus mainly on the inhibition of tumor cell growth or the induction of cell death, and do not consider the molecular basis of metastasis. The aim of this work is to provide a comprehensive review focusing on cancer metastasis and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway (ERK/JNK/P38 signaling) as a crucial modulator of this process.
Arabidopsis Plasma Membrane ATPase AHA5 Is Negatively Involved in PAMP-Triggered Immunity
Authors: Zhao Zhenzhen , Fan Jiangbo , Gao Yu G. , Wang Zonghua , Yang Piao , Liang Yinping , Opiyo Stephen , Xia Ye
Published: April 2022

Plants evolve a prompt and robust immune system to defend themselves against pathogen infections. Pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP)-triggered immunity (PTI) is the first battle layer activated upon the PAMP’s perception, which leads to multiple defense responses. The plasma membrane (PM) H+-ATPases are the primary ion pumps to create and maintain the cellular membrane potential that is critical for various essential biological processes, including plant growth, development, and defense. This study discovered that the PM H+-ATPase AHA5 is negatively involved in Arabidopsis PTI against the virulent pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pvr. tomato (Pto) DC3000 infection. The aha5 mutant plants caused the reduced stomata opening upon the Pto infection, which was associated with the salicylic acid (SA) pathway. In addition, the aha5 mutant plants caused the increased levels of callose deposition, defense-related gene expression, and SA accumulation. Our results also indicate that the PM H+-ATPase activity of AHA5 probably mediates the coupling of H2O2 generation and the apoplast alkalization in PTI responses. Moreover, AHA5 was found to interact with a vital defense regulator, RPM1-interacting protein 4 (RIN4), in vitro and in vivo, which might also be critical for its function in PTI. In summary, our studies show that AHA5 functions as a novel and critical component that is negatively involved in PTI by coordinating different defense responses during the Arabidopsis–Pto DC3000 interaction.
Acute and Delayed Effects of Mechanical Injury on Calcium Homeostasis and Mitochondrial Potential of Primary Neuroglial Cell Culture: Potential Causal Contributions to Post-Traumatic Syndrome
Authors: Bakaeva Zanda , Goncharov Mikhail , Krasilnikova Irina , Zgodova Arina , Frolov Daniil , Grebenik Ekaterina , Timashev Peter , Pinelis Vsevolod , Surin Alexander
Published: April 2022

In vitro models of traumatic brain injury (TBI) help to elucidate the pathological mechanisms responsible for cell dysfunction and death. To simulate in vitro the mechanical brain trauma, primary neuroglial cultures were scratched during different periods of network formation. Fluorescence microscopy was used to measure changes in intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and mitochondrial potential (ΔΨm) a few minutes later and on days 3 and 7 after scratching. An increase in [Ca2+]i and a decrease in ΔΨm were observed ~10 s after the injury in cells located no further than 150–200 µm from the scratch border. Ca2+ entry into cells during mechanical damage of the primary neuroglial culture occurred predominantly through the NMDA-type glutamate ionotropic channels. MK801, an inhibitor of this type of glutamate receptor, prevented an acute increase in [Ca2+]i in 99% of neurons. Pathological changes in calcium homeostasis persisted in the primary neuroglial culture for one week after injury. Active cell migration in the scratch area occurred on day 11 after neurotrauma and was accompanied by a decrease in the ratio of live to dead cells in the areas adjacent to the injury. Immunohistochemical staining of glial fibrillary acidic protein and β-III tubulin showed that neuronal cells migrated to the injured area earlier than glial cells, but their repair potential was insufficient for survival. Mitochondrial Ca2+ overload and a drop in ΔΨm may cause delayed neuronal death and thus play a key role in the development of the post-traumatic syndrome. Preventing prolonged ΔΨm depolarization may be a promising therapeutic approach to improve neuronal survival after traumatic brain injury.
Neuroprotection in Stroke—Focus on the Renin-Angiotensin System: A Systematic Review
Authors: Andone Sebastian , Bajko Zoltan , Motataianu Anca , Maier Smaranda , Barcutean Laura , Balasa Rodica
Published: April 2022

Stroke is the primary cause of disability in the adult population. Hypertension represents the leading risk factor being present in almost half the patients. The renin-angiotensin system is involved in the physiopathology of stroke and has an essential impact on hypertension as a risk factor. This article targeted the role of the renin-angiotensin system in stroke neuroprotection by reviewing the current literature available. The mechanism of action of the renin-angiotensin system was observed through the effects on AT1, AT2, and Mas receptors. The neuroprotective properties ascertained by angiotensin in stroke seem to be independent of the blood pressure reduction mechanism, and include neuroregeneration, angiogenesis, and increased neuronal resistance to hypoxia. The future relationship of stroke and the renin-angiotensin system is full of possibilities, as new agonist molecules emerge as potential candidates to restrict the impairment caused by stroke.
The Roles of NEDD4 Subfamily of HECT E3 Ubiquitin Ligases in Neurodevelopment and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Haouari Shanez , Vourc’h Patrick , Jeanne Médéric , Marouillat Sylviane , Veyrat-Durebex Charlotte , Lanznaster Débora , Laumonnier Frédéric , Corcia Philippe , Blasco Hélène , Andres Christian R.
Published: April 2022

The ubiquitin pathway regulates the function of many proteins and controls cellular protein homeostasis. In recent years, it has attracted great interest in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we have presented the first review on the roles of the 9 proteins of the HECT E3 ligase NEDD4 subfamily in the development and function of neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). We discussed their regulation and their direct or indirect involvement in neurodevelopmental diseases, such as intellectual disability, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Further studies on the roles of these proteins, their regulation and their targets in neurons will certainly contribute to a better understanding of neuronal function and dysfunction, and will also provide interesting information for the development of therapeutics targeting them.
The Mammary Gland: Basic Structure and Molecular Signaling during Development
Authors: Biswas Swarajit Kumar , Banerjee Saswati , Baker Ginger Wendolyn , Kuo Chieh-Yin , Chowdhury Indrajit
Published: April 2022

The mammary gland is a compound, branched tubuloalveolar structure and a major characteristic of mammals. The mammary gland has evolved from epidermal apocrine glands, the skin glands as an accessory reproductive organ to support postnatal survival of offspring by producing milk as a source of nutrition. The mammary gland development begins during embryogenesis as a rudimentary structure that grows into an elementary branched ductal tree and is embedded in one end of a larger mammary fat pad at birth. At the onset of ovarian function at puberty, the rudimentary ductal system undergoes dramatic morphogenetic change with ductal elongation and branching. During pregnancy, the alveolar differentiation and tertiary branching are completed, and during lactation, the mature milk-producing glands eventually develop. The early stages of mammary development are hormonal independent, whereas during puberty and pregnancy, mammary gland development is hormonal dependent. We highlight the current understanding of molecular regulators involved during different stages of mammary gland development.
Diet–Microbiota Interplay: An Emerging Player in Macrophage Plasticity and Intestinal Health
Authors: O’Mahony Cian , Amamou Asma , Ghosh Subrata
Published: April 2022

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with an increasing prevalence worldwide. Targeted therapies for IBD are limited by several factors, including the therapeutic ceiling and the high incidence of non-responders or loss-of-response. In order to improve therapeutic efficacy, there is critical need to decipher disease pathogenesis, currently not well understood. Macrophages, innate immune cells that exhibit high plasticity, perpetuate inflammatory signalling in IBD through excessive release of inflammatory mediators. In recent years, pioneering research has revealed the importance of the interplay between macrophages and gut microbiota in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Particular attention is focusing on microbiota-derived metabolites, believed to possess immunomodulatory properties capable of manipulating macrophage plasticity. Microbiota-derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and indole compounds, along with dietary sourced omega-3 (ω-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), exert anti-inflammatory effects, attributable to interactions with macrophages. Before we can effectively incorporate these metabolites into IBD therapies, a deeper understanding of microbiota–macrophage interactions at a molecular level is necessary. Therefore, the aim of this review is firstly to detail current knowledge regarding how diet and microbiota-derived metabolites modify macrophage plasticity. Later, we discuss the concept of therapeutic strategies directed at microbiota–macrophage interactions, which could be highly valuable for IBD therapies in the future.
PDGF/PDGFR: A Possible Molecular Target in Scleroderma Fibrosis
Authors: Paolini Chiara , Agarbati Silvia , Benfaremo Devis , Mozzicafreddo Matteo , Svegliati Silvia , Moroncini Gianluca
Published: April 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a clinically heterogeneous disorder of the connective tissue characterized by vascular alterations, immune/inflammatory manifestations, and organ fibrosis. SSc pathogenesis is complex and still poorly understood. Therefore, effective therapies are lacking and remain nonspecific and limited to disease symptoms. In the last few years, many molecular and cellular mediators of SSc fibrosis have been described, providing new potential options for targeted therapies. In this review: (i) we focused on the PDGF/PDGFR pathway as key signaling molecules in the development of tissue fibrosis; (ii) we highlighted the possible role of stimulatory anti-PDGFRα autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of SSc; (iii) we reported the most promising PDGF/PDGFR targeting therapies.
Delayed Topographical and Refractive Changes Following Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus
Authors: Eslami Maryam , Ghaseminejad Farhad , Dubord Paul J. , Yeung Sonia N. , Iovieno Alfonso
Published: April 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term topographic and refractive outcomes of corneal cross-linking (CXL) in keratoconus. Methods: We used a retrospective observational study of patients with keratoconus who underwent CXL with a minimum follow-up of 5 years. Patients’ refractive and topography data (corrected distance visual acuity, sphere, cylinder, average and maximum keratometry, and corneal aberrations) were collected. Results: A total of 112 patients/150 eyes (mean age: 33.2 ± 10.7 years; range: 13–61) were included. The mean follow-up was 5.87 ± 1.35 years (range: 5–10). At the last follow-up visit, an improvement in CDVA, spherical and cylindrical refraction, average and steepest keratometry, and corneal aberrations were observed (p < 0.05), with the exception of trefoil. At the last visit, 49 (34.8%) and 31 (22.0%) eyes had an improvement beyond 1D in their spherical and cylindrical power, respectively, and 43 (28.7%) eyes had a flattening of their steepest keratometry. Progressive improvement over time was observed for spherical refraction; max and mean-K; as well as corneal RMS, total, high, coma, and spherical aberrations (p < 0.05). More severe disease at the baseline correlated with an improvement in corneal aberrations over time. Conclusions: In addition to a progressive improvement in refractive and keratometric indices, corneal aberrations also demonstrate a steady decline with long-term follow-up after CXL, which was more pronounced in more severe patients.
Red Display for Three-Color Electrophoretic Displays with High Saturation via a Separation Stage between Black and Red Particles
Authors: Liu Linwei , Zeng Wenjun , Long Zhengxing , Yi Zichuan , Bai Pengfei , Tang Biao , Yuan Dong , Zhou Guofu
Published: April 2022

A three-color electrophoretic display (EPD) can solve the defect of an insufficient color display of black/white EPDs, but it is difficult to achieve a high red saturation due to the same driving polarity between black and red electrophoretic particles. In this work, a separation stage was proposed in the driving process to increase the red saturation in three-color EPDs. Firstly, red particles’ motion was analyzed by the electrophoretic theory and Stokes’ theorem to optimize driving parameters. Secondly, the activity of black particles was analyzed by testing different driving process parameters, and an optimal activation parameter for red particles was obtained. Next, the separation stage parameters were analyzed to reduce the mixing degree of black and red electrophoretic particles. Experimental results showed that the red and black electrophoretic particles could be effectively separated. Compared with an existing driving method, the red saturation was increased by 23.4%.