bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of microRNA polymorphisms on high-dose methotrexate-related hematological toxicities in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Zhan Min , Liu Ting , Zhang Zhou , Wang Guoqiang , Cao Zhongqiang , Li Xuejuan , Zeng Hongwu , Mai Huirong , Chen Zebin
Published: June 2023

Objectives

It is well known that transporter and enzyme genes could be regulated by microRNA (miRNA) at the post-transcriptional level, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA, which are involved in the miRNA production and structure, may impact the miRNA expression level and then influence drug transport and metabolism. In this study, we aim to evaluate the association between miRNA polymorphisms and high-dose methotrexate (HD-MTX) hematological toxicities in Chinese pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Method

A total of 181 children with ALL were administered with 654 evaluable cycles of HD-MTX. Their hematological toxicities were evaluated according to the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5. The association between 15 candidate SNPs of miRNA and hematological toxicities (leukopenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia) was analyzed using Fisher's exact test. Further multiple backward logistic regression analysis was used to explore the independent risk factors for grade 3/4 hematological toxicities.

Result

Rs2114358 G>A in pre-hsa-miR-1206 was related to HD-MTX-related grade 3/4 leukopenia after multiple logistic regression [GA + AA vs. GG: odds ratio (OR): 2.308, 95% CI: 1.219–4.372, P = 0.010], and rs56103835 T > C in pre-hsa-mir-323b was associated with HD-MTX-related grade 3/4 anemia (TT + TC vs. CC: OR: 0.360, 95% CI: 0.239–0.541, P = 0.000); none of the SNPs were significantly associated with grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia. Bioinformatics tools predicted that rs2114358 G>A and rs56103835 T>C would impact the secondary structure of pre-miR-1206 and pre-miR-323b, respectively, and then probably influence the expression level of mature miRNAs and their target genes.

Conclusion

Rs2114358 G>A and rs56103835 T>C polymorphism may potentially influence HD-MTX-related hematological toxicities, which may serve as candidate clinical biomarkers to predict grade 3/4 hematological toxicities in pediatric patients with ALL.
Clinician perception of care at the end of life in a quaternary neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Imai Lauren , Gray Megan M. , Kim Brennan J. H. , Lyle Allison N. J. , Bock Amber , Weiss Elliott Mark
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Care for neonates at the end of life (EOL) is often challenging for families and medical teams alike, performed suboptimally, and requires an experienced and compassionate clinician. Much literature exists on adult and pediatric EOL care, but limited studies examine the neonatal process.

Methods

We aimed to describe clinicians' experiences around EOL care in a single quaternary neonatal intensive care unit as we implemented a standard guideline using the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit-Quality of Dying and Death 20 tool.

Results

Surveys were completed by 205 multidisciplinary clinicians over three time periods and included 18 infants at EOL. While most responses were high, a meaningful minority were below goal (<8 on 0–10 scale) for troubling symptom management, conflict between parents and staff, family access to resources, and parent preparation of symptoms. Comparison between Epochs revealed improvement in one symptom management and four communication categories. Satisfaction scores related to education around EOL were better in later Epochs. Neonatal Pain, Agitation, and Sedation Scale scores were low, with few outliers.

Discussion

These findings can guide those aiming to improve processes around neonatal EOL by identifying areas with the greatest challenges (e.g., conflict management) and areas that need further study (e.g., pain management around death).
Propofol inhibits neuroinflammation and metabolic reprogramming in microglia in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Guan Shuyuan , Sun Lingbin , Wang Xihua , Huang Xirui , Luo Tao
Published: June 2023

Microglial activation-induced neuroinflammation is closely related to the development of sepsis-associated encephalopathy. Accumulating evidence suggests that changes in the metabolic profile of microglia is crucial for their response to inflammation. Propofol is widely used for sedation in mechanically ventilated patients with sepsis. Here, we investigate the effect of propofol on lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation, neuronal injuries, microglia metabolic reprogramming as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms. The neuroprotective effects of propofol (80 mg/kg) in vivo were measured in the lipopolysaccharide (2 mg/kg)-induced sepsis in mice through behavioral tests, Western blot analysis and immunofluorescent staining. The anti-inflammatory effects of propofol (50 μM) in microglial cell cultures under lipopolysaccharide (10 ng/ml) challenge were examined with Seahorse XF Glycolysis Stress test, ROS assay, Western blot, and immunofluorescent staining. We showed that propofol treatment reduced microglia activation and neuroinflammation, inhibited neuronal apoptosis and improved lipopolysaccharide-induced cognitive dysfunction. Propofol also attenuated lipopolysaccharide-stimulated increases of inducible nitric oxide synthase, nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor-α, interlukin-1β and COX-2 in cultured BV-2 cells. Propofol-treated microglia showed a remarkable suppression of lipopolysaccharide-induced HIF-1α, PFKFB3, HK2 expression and along with downregulation of the ROS/PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Moreover, propofol attenuated the enhancement of mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis induced by lipopolysaccharide. Together, our data suggest that propofol attenuated inflammatory response by inhibiting metabolic reprogramming, at least in part, through downregulation of the ROS/PI3K/Akt/mTOR/HIF-1α signaling pathway.
Increased plasma renin by vasodilators promotes the progression of abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Liu Yu , Liu Shuai , Zhao Jiani , Wu Kemin , Xu Baohui , Wang Wei
Published: June 2023

Background: It is well-accepted that antihypertensive therapy is the cornerstone of treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) patients with hypertension. Direct-acting vasodilators were used in the treatment of hypertension by directly relaxing vascular smooth muscle but may have destructive effects on the aortic wall by activating the renin–angiotensin system axis. Their roles in AAA disease remain to be elucidated. In this study, we used hydralazine and minoxidil, two classical direct-acting vasodilators, to investigate their influence and potential mechanisms on AAA disease.

Methods and results: In this study, we investigated the plasma renin level and plasma renin activity in AAA patients. Simultaneously, age and gender ratio-matched patients diagnosed with peripheral artery disease and varicose veins were selected as the control group using a ratio of 1:1:1. Our regression analysis suggested both the plasma renin level and plasma renin activity are positively associated with AAA development. In view of the well-established relationship between direct-acting vasodilators and increased plasma renin concentration, we established a porcine pancreatic elastase-infused AAA mouse model, followed by oral administration of hydralazine (250 mg/L) and minoxidil (120 mg/L) to investigate effects of direct-acting vasodilators on AAA disease. Our results suggested both hydralazine and minoxidil promoted the progression of AAA with increased aortic degeneration. Mechanistically, the vasodilators aggravated aortic inflammation by increased leukocyte infiltration and inflammatory cytokine secretion.

Conclusion and relevance: The plasma renin level and plasma renin activity are positively associated with AAA development. Direct vasodilators aggravated experimental AAA progression, which raised cautionary concerns about their applications in AAA disease.
Hepatotoxic mechanism of cantharidin: insights and strategies for therapeutic intervention
Authors: Jin Dian , Huang Na-Na , Wei Jing-Xia
Published: June 2023

Cantharidin (CTD), a natural compound derived from Mylabris, is widely used in traditional Oriental medicine for its potent anticancer properties. However, its clinical application is restricted due to its high toxicity, particularly towards the liver. This review provides a concise understanding of the hepatotoxic mechanisms of CTD and highlights novel therapeutic strategies to mitigate its toxicity while enhancing its anticancer efficacy. We systematically explore the molecular mechanisms underlying CTD-induced hepatotoxicity, focusing on the involvement of apoptotic and autophagic processes in hepatocyte injury. We further discuss the endogenous and exogenous pathways implicated in CTD-induced liver damage and potential therapeutic targets. This review also summarizes the structural modifications of CTD derivatives and their impact on anticancer activity. Additionally, we delve into the advancements in nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems that hold promise in overcoming the limitations of CTD derivatives. By offering valuable insights into the hepatotoxic mechanisms of CTD and outlining potential avenues for future research, this review contributes to the ongoing efforts to develop safer and more effective CTD-based therapies.
ISI spectral radii and ISI energies of graph operations
Authors: Bilal Ahmad , Munir Muhammad Mobeen , Qureshi Muhammad Imran , Athar Muhammad
Published: June 2023

Graph energy is defined to be the p-norm of adjacency matrix associated to the graph for p = 1 elaborated as the sum of the absolute eigenvalues of adjacency matrix. The graph’s spectral radius represents the adjacency matrix’s largest absolute eigenvalue. Applications for graph energies and spectral radii can be found in both molecular computing and computer science. On similar lines, Inverse Sum Indeg, (ISI) energies, and (ISI) spectral radii can be constructed. This article’s main focus is the ISI energies, and ISI spectral radii of the generalized splitting and shadow graphs constructed on any regular graph. These graphs can be representation of many physical models like networks, molecules and macromolecules, chains or channels. We actually compute the relations about the ISI energies and ISI spectral radii of the newly created graphs to those of the original graph.
Global characteristics and drivers of sodium and aluminum concentrations in freshly fallen plant litter
Authors: Wang Yiqing , Wu Fuzhong , Wu Qiqian , Yue Kai , Yuan Ji , Yuan Chaoxiang , Peng Yan
Published: June 2023

Plant litter is not only the major component of terrestrial ecosystem net productivity, the decomposition of which is also an important process for the returns of elements, including sodium (Na) and aluminum (Al), which can be beneficial or toxic for plant growth. However, to date, the global characteristics and driving factors of Na and Al concentrations in freshly fallen litter still remain elusive. Here, we evaluated the concentrations and drivers of litter Na and Al with 491 observations extracted from 116 publications across the globe. Results showed that (1) the average concentrations of Na in leaf, branch, root, stem, bark, and reproductive tissue (flowers and fruits) litter were 0.989, 0.891, 1.820, 0.500, 1.390, and 0.500 g/kg, respectively, and the concentrations of Al in leaf, branch, and root were 0.424, 0.200 and 1.540 g/kg, respectively. (2) mycorrhizal association significantly affected litter Na and Al concentration. The highest concentration of Na was found in litter from trees associated with both arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AM) and ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECM), followed by litter from trees with AM and ECM. Lifeform, taxonomic, and leaf form had significant impacts on the concentration of Na and Al in plant litter of different tissues. (3) leaf litter Na concentration was mainly driven by mycorrhizal association, leaf form and soil phosphorus concentration, while leaf litter Al concentration was mainly controlled by mycorrhizal association, leaf form, and precipitation in the wettest month. Overall, our study clearly assessed the global patterns and influencing factors of litter Na and Al concentrations, which may help us to better understand their roles in the associated biogeochemical cycles in forest ecosystem.
Industrial chicory genome gives insights into the molecular timetable of anther development and male sterility
Authors: Waegneer Evelien , Rombauts Stephane , Baert Joost , Dauchot Nicolas , De Keyser Annick , Eeckhaut Tom , Haegeman Annelies , Liu Chang , Maudoux Olivier , Notté Christine , Staelens Ariane , Van der Veken Jeroen , Van Laere Katrijn , Ruttink Tom
Published: June 2023

Industrial chicory (Cichorium intybus var. sativum) is a biannual crop mostly cultivated for extraction of inulin, a fructose polymer used as a dietary fiber. F1 hybrid breeding is a promising breeding strategy in chicory but relies on stable male sterile lines to prevent self-pollination. Here, we report the assembly and annotation of a new industrial chicory reference genome. Additionally, we performed RNA-Seq on subsequent stages of flower bud development of a fertile line and two cytoplasmic male sterile (CMS) clones. Comparison of fertile and CMS flower bud transcriptomes combined with morphological microscopic analysis of anthers, provided a molecular understanding of anther development and identified key genes in a range of underlying processes, including tapetum development, sink establishment, pollen wall development and anther dehiscence. We also described the role of phytohormones in the regulation of these processes under normal fertile flower bud development. In parallel, we evaluated which processes are disturbed in CMS clones and could contribute to the male sterile phenotype. Taken together, this study provides a state-of-the-art industrial chicory reference genome, an annotated and curated candidate gene set related to anther development and male sterility as well as a detailed molecular timetable of flower bud development in fertile and CMS lines.
A near-complete genome assembly of Thalia dealbata Fraser (Marantaceae)
Authors: Tang Min , Huang Jialin , Ma Xiangli , Du Juan , Bi Yufen , Guo Peiwen , Lu Hao , Wang Lei
Published: June 2023

This study presents a chromosome-level, near-complete genome assembly of Thalia dealbata (Marantaceae), a typical emergent wetland plant with high ornamental and environmental value. Based on 36.99 Gb PacBio HiFi reads and 39.44 Gb Hi-C reads, we obtained a 255.05 Mb assembly, of which 251.92 Mb (98.77%) were anchored into eight pseudo-chromosomes. Five pseudo-chromosomes were completely assembled, and the other three had one to two gaps. The final assembly had a high contig N50 value (29.80 Mb) and benchmarking universal single-copy orthologs (BUSCO) recovery score (97.52%). The T. dealbata genome had 100.35 Mb repeat sequences, 24,780 protein-coding genes, and 13,679 non-coding RNAs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that T. dealbata was closest to Zingiber officinale, whose divergence time was approximately 55.41 million years ago. In addition, 48 and 52 significantly expanded and contracted gene families were identified within the T. dealbata genome. Moreover, 309 gene families were specific to T. dealbata, and 1,017 genes were positively selected. The T. dealbata genome reported in this study provides a valuable genomic resource for further research on wetland plant adaptation and the genome evolution dynamics. This genome is also beneficial for the comparative genomics of Zingiberales species and flowering plants.
Medicago truncatula PHO2 genes have distinct roles in phosphorus homeostasis and symbiotic nitrogen fixation
Authors: Huertas Raul , Torres-Jerez Ivone , Curtin Shaun J. , Scheible Wolf , Udvardi Michael
Published: June 2023

Three PHO2-like genes encoding putative ubiquitin-conjugating E2 enzymes of Medicago truncatula were characterized for potential roles in phosphorous (P) homeostasis and symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF). All three genes, MtPHO2A, B and C, contain miR399-binding sites characteristic of PHO2 genes in other plant species. Distinct spatiotemporal expression patterns and responsiveness of gene expression to P- and N-deprivation in roots and shoots indicated potential roles, especially for MtPHO2B, in P and N homeostasis. Phenotypic analysis of pho2 mutants revealed that MtPHO2B is integral to Pi homeostasis, affecting Pi allocation during plant growth under nutrient-replete conditions, while MtPHO2C had a limited role in controlling Pi homeostasis. Genetic analysis also revealed a connection between Pi allocation, plant growth and SNF performance. Under N-limited, SNF conditions, Pi allocation to different organs was dependent on MtPHO2B and, to a lesser extent, MtPHO2C and MtPHO2A. MtPHO2A also affected Pi homeostasis associated with nodule formation. Thus, MtPHO2 genes play roles in systemic and localized, i.e., nodule, P homeostasis affecting SNF.
An empirical study on the reading response to picture books of children aged 5–6
Authors: Wang Defeng , Su Min , Zheng Yiyi
Published: June 2023

Picture book reading has drawn a great deal of attention, while the reading response to children’s book has barely been noticed. This study therefore used the lag sequence analysis method to conduct an empirical study on the reading reaction of 60 5–6-year old children during collective picture book reading activities. Results indicated that the children had rich and diversified reading responses which mainly consisted of language description and emotional experience rather than careful observation of the picture books and in-depth understanding of the relationship between the pictures and text. In addition, the children’s oral expression and vocabulary are important predictors of differences in the reading responses of children with different reading abilities. “Image observation to personal empirical reaction” is also the key behavioral sequence that distinguishes children with different reading abilities.
Breaking the boundaries: the power of ligatures in visual-word recognition
Authors: Fernández-López María , Perea Manuel , Marcet Ana
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Current neurobiological-inspired models of visual-word recognition propose that letter detectors in the word recognition system can tolerate some variations in the visual form of the letters. However, it is unclear whether this tolerance extends to novel ligatures, which combine two letters into a single glyph.

Methods

To investigate this, the present study utilized a masked priming experiment with a lexical decision task to examine whether primes containing novel ligatures are effective in activating their corresponding base word, relative to omitted-letter primes, in the initial stages of word processing. For each target word (e.g., VIRTUAL), were created an identity prime (virtual), a prime containing a novel ligature of two of the letters (e.g., virtual; “ir” in a single glyph), and an omitted-letter prime where one letter was removed (e.g., vrtual [omitted-vowel] in Experiment 1; vitual [omitted-consonant] in Experiment 2).

Results

Results showed that the presence of a novel ligature in the prime resulted in faster lexical decision times compared to a prime with an omitted vowel (Experiment 1), but not with an omitted consonant (Experiment 2). Furthermore, the performance with the primes containing the novel ligature was not different from that of the identity primes.

Discussion

These results suggest that the word recognition system can quickly enable separate letter detectors for novel ligatures. These findings have important implications for our understanding of the front-end of visual-word recognition.
Self-esteem and professional identity among male nurses and male nursing students: mediating roles of perceived prejudice and psychological distress
Authors: Wu Xiaoqin , You Xu , Pu Jinyuan , Li Junping , Wu Wenzhi , Ma Xiao , Long Qing , Zhang Yunqiao , Zhao Xinling , Guo Zeyi , Cao Xiang , Tu Fangjun , Zeng Yong
Published: June 2023

Introduction

There are not enough nurses around the world, and there are even fewer male nurses. It has not been easy for men to become nurses because of stereotypes about the roles of men and women in the workplace, which lead to prejudice and discrimination. This study explored how the self-esteem of male nurses and male nursing students affects their professional identity in an environment where stereotypes and social prejudice exist. This study also examined the differences of relevant variables in different sociodemographic characteristics of the research subjects in a Chinese social context.

Methods

By purposive and snowball sampling, 464 male nurses and male nursing students were surveyed through questionnaires from November 2021 to January 2022. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 25.0 and PROCESS Macro 3.3.

Results

Self-esteem could indirectly affect professional identity through perceived prejudice and psychological distress. Nonetheless, self-esteem still had a significant direct effect on professional identity. The total mediating effect accounted for 32.816% of the total effect, and the direct effect accounted for 67.184% of the total effect. Also of note was that 81.7% of participants reported experiencing psychological distress.

Discussion

To improve the professional identity of male nurses and male nursing students, nursing educators and administrators should do the following: protect and improve their self-esteem; take steps to reduce social prejudice against them; value their mental health and alleviate their psychological distress.
Gender-related issues in a Taiwanese university medical science laboratory setting: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Tseng Chun-Yi , Chang Shu-Ching
Published: June 2023

Introduction

This paper provides a glimpse into gender issues in a university-based medical science laboratory setting in northern Taiwan. In this study, gender issues with respect to perceptions regarding gender, the degree of gender neutrality in the work environment, and the influence of gender on researchers’ academic careers were analyzed.

Methods

From July to August 2021, semistructured interviews to understand the perspectives of five faculty members at Chang Gung University School of Medicine regarding gender issues were conducted. The data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Subsequently, coding was performed using ATLAS.ti Web (Version 4.0.10).

Results and discussion

It was found that gender is not perceived to correlate with performance in the medical sciences. Although the medical science laboratories in the study institution are mostly gender-neutral, instances of discrimination might have been concealed elsewhere because of underreporting. Nevertheless, medical science research culture in Chang Gung University appears to promote respect and equality owing to increased general awareness regarding such issues as well as robust policies that protect women’s rights and promote gender equality. Marriage, motherhood, and family obligations remain key challenges to the academic career of female scientists in the institution. To achieve more equitable representation of male and female scientists as well as to prevent female scientists from leaving medical science laboratories in Taiwan, institutional and national policies that provide tailored support for female scientists intending to start families must continue to be implemented.
A comparison of ICD-11 and DSM-5 criteria of PTSD among Chinese trauma-exposed adolescent samples
Authors: Wang Li , Fang Ruojiao , Chen Chen , Cao Chengqi
Published: June 2023

This study aimed at comparing the prevalence and comorbidity differences of PTSD according to ICD-11 and DSM-5 definitions across two Chinese adolescent trauma-exposed samples. A total of 1,201 students exposed to earthquake and 559 students from vocational schools exposed to potentially traumatic events were included in this study. The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 was used to measure PTSD symptoms. The MDD and GAD subscales of the Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale were used to measure major depression disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) symptoms. No significant PTSD prevalence differences between ICD-11 and DSM-5 were found across the two samples. The differences regarding comorbidities between ICD-11 and DSM-5 definitions were not significant among these two samples. The results revealed that the ICD-11 and DSM-5 provided similar prevalence of PTSD and comorbidity rates with MDD and GAD in Chinese trauma-exposed adolescent samples. This study contributes to the current understanding of the similarities and differences using different PTSD criteria and informs the organization and application of these two globally applied PTSD criteria.
Is patients’ rurality associated with in-hospital sepsis death in US hospitals?
Authors: Chang Jongwha , Medina Mar , Kim Sun Jung
Published: June 2023

Background

The focus of this study was to explore the association of patients’ rurality and other patient and hospital-related factors with in-hospital sepsis mortality to identify possible health disparities across United States hospitals.

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample was used to identify nationwide sepsis patients (n = 1,977,537, weighted n = 9,887,682) from 2016 to 2019. We used multivariate survey logistic regression models to identify predictors for how patients’ rurality is associated with in-hospital death.

Findings

During the study periods, in-hospital death rates among sepsis inpatients continuously decreased (11.3% in 2016 to 9.9% in 2019) for all rurality levels. Rao-Schott Chi-Square tests demonstrated that certain patient and hospital factors had varied in-hospital death rates. Multivariate survey logistic regressions suggested that rural areas, minorities, females, older adults, low-income, and uninsured patients have higher odds of in-hospital mortality. Further, specific census divisions like New England, Middle Atlantic, and East North Central had greater in-hospital sepsis death odds.

Conclusion

Rurality was associated with increased in-hospital sepsis death across multiple patient populations and locations. Further, rurality in New England, Middle Atlantic, and East North Central locations is exceptionally high odds. In addition, minority races in rural areas also have an increased odds of in-hospital death. Therefore, rural healthcare requires a more significant influx of resources and should also include assessing patient-related factors.
Comparing the emotional impact of the UK COVID-19 lockdown in very preterm and full-term born children: a longitudinal study
Authors: Sun Zeyuan , Hadaya Laila , Leoni Marguerite , Dazzan Paola , Simonoff Emily , Counsell Serena J. , Edwards A. David , Nosarti Chiara , Vanes Lucy
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a global mental health crisis, especially for those individuals who are vulnerable to stress and anxiety due to pre-existing mental health problems. This study aimed to understand the emotional impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on children who were born very preterm (VPT, <32 weeks' gestation), as they are vulnerable to mental health difficulties and are at increased risk of developing psychiatric problems during childhood compared to their full-term-born counterparts.

Methods

The parents of 32 VPT children (mean age = 8.7) and 29 term-born controls (mean age = 8.8), who had previously taken part in a study of brain development and psychopathology following VPT birth, completed an online modified version of the Coronavirus Health and Impact Survey (CRISIS). The emotional impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on the child and the parent, measured by the CRISIS, was studied in relation to pre-existing mental health, assessed with the parent-rated Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), evaluated before the CRISIS completion (mean time gap 15 months). Linear regression model comparisons were conducted to study the effects of COVID-19-related stressors on children's and parents' behavior, relationships and mental health.

Results

There were no significant group differences in pre-existing SDQ internalizing/externalizing symptoms, child's emotions or parent's emotions during the COVID-19 lockdown. However, higher pre-existing internalizing symptoms in VPT children were associated with greater lockdown-related emotional problems and worries (simple slope = 1.95, p < 0.001), whereas this was not observed in term-born children.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that VPT children with pre-existing internalizing problems may be more vulnerable to the negative impact of certain societal and familial stressors, such as social restrictions during the national COVID-19 lockdown periods. Further rigorous studies are therefore needed to assess the severity of increased risks for this particularly vulnerable group in the context of potentially stressful life changes and adjustments.
A concise review of chewing gum as an anti-cariogenic agent
Authors: Yeung Clara Yan-Yu , Chu Chun-Hung , Yu Ollie Yiru
Published: June 2023

Chewing gum has been endorsed as a caries preventive agent by the FDI World Dental Federation, the American Dental Association, and the European Food Safety Authority. This review discusses the mechanism and provides an update of the use of chewing gum for caries prevention. Chewing gum typically consists of a water-insoluble gum base, water-soluble added ingredients, and active ingredients. It can be classified as sugar-containing or sugar-free, as well as nonmedicated or medicated. Chewing gum prevents dental caries through a range of mechanisms, including the clearance of the oral cavity, neutralization of oral acidity, inhibition of cariogenic bacterial growth, remineralization of enamel, and reduction of appetite. Recent clinical studies have evaluated the efficacy of sugar-free chewing gum for caries prevention, with most demonstrating positive results, although some studies have reported contradictory outcomes. To achieve optimal caries prevention, it is generally recommended that individuals chew sugar-free gum for five minutes after meals, three times daily.
Total pain and social suffering: marginalised Greenlanders' end-of-life in Denmark
Authors: Graven Vibeke , Abrahams Maja Bangsgaard , Pedersen Tina
Published: June 2023

With a focus on socially marginalised Greenlanders in Denmark, this study explores the significance of the concept of social suffering for the concept of total pain. Greenland is a former Danish colony and Greenlanders retain the right to Danish citizenship with all the benefits of access to the resources of Denmark as any other Danish citizen. However, Greenlanders are overrepresented amongst the most socially disadvantaged in Denmark. They have a disproportionately high risk of early death, often undiagnosed and untreated. This study reports on research conducted with socially marginalised Greenlanders and some of the professionals who work with them. It interrogates the concept of total pain as developed by Cicely Saunders, the founder of modern palliative care. Saunders noted that pain at the end-of-life was not adequately explained by symptoms of a disease process because it was more like a situation that engulfed every aspect of the patient and those close to them; it included physical, psychological, spiritual, and social dimensions. We agree with other scholars that the social dimension of the total pain experience is underexplored. By drawing on the theoretical and methodological lens of intersectionality, our work with marginalised Greenlanders has enabled us to describe the multiple and intersecting social forces that create social suffering for this group. This leads us to conclude that social suffering is not entirely an individual experience but a product of social harm and disadvantage, poverty, inequality, and the various legacies of colonialism, which combine to place some citizens in a harmed condition. Our findings also draw us into a discussion with the concept of total pain and its neglect of the socially constructed nature of social suffering. We conclude by indicating ways in which the concept of total pain can be informed by a more thoroughgoing concept of social suffering. We conclude, with others, that there is a problem of inequity in the way that end-of-life care is currently distributed. Finally, we point to ways in which an understanding of social suffering can help to address the exclusion of some of the most vulnerable citizens from appropriate end-of-life care.
Development and validation of multi-analyte methods for the determination of migrating substances from plastic food contact materials by GC-EI-QqQ-MS and GC-APCI-QTOF-MS
Authors: Kanakaki Chrysoula , Traka Theodora , Thomaidis Nikolaos S.
Published: June 2023

The packaging has proven to be a source of some serious food contaminants, with several chemicals migrating from the food contact material into the food. Therefore, efficient means of control of the migration extend and identification of the migrating substances must be established. The necessity of migration tests has been underlined by the European Union (EU) Regulation No. 10/2011, requiring the evaluation of the presence of intentionally and non-intentionally added substances. To facilitate this purpose, highly sensitive, multi-analyte methods are required. Targeting a wide range of volatile migrating compounds, we developed and validated a GC-EI-QqQ-MS and a GC-APCI-QTOF-MS method for the simultaneous determination of 131 and 126 food packaging substances, respectively. Even though the GC-EI-QqQ-MS method presented increased sensitivity for several of the investigated compounds, covering the existing EU requirements and specific migration limits (SMLs) for all targeted analytes; the complementary high-resolution method inherently enables the possibility of further utilization of the obtained raw data among others for retrospective analysis. The applicability of both methods was tested using 95% v/v aqueous ethanol food simulant, representative for the worst foreseeable conditions of intended use for many food contact material applications. Real food packaging samples belonging to different types of plastic materials were tested toward chemical migration, utilizing different migration protocols, depending on the sample characteristics. The favorable analytical features of both methods enable their use for the direct analysis of the investigated food simulant, overcoming the need for sample preparation. Thus, labor intensive and/or time-consuming pre-concentration procedures, which would furthermore restrict the applicability of the methods to certain groups of analytes and add to the uncertainty of the overall results, could be eliminated.
Protective Effect of Vaccine Doses and Antibody Titers Against SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Chen Chien-Chia , Hsu Meng-Kai , Huang Yi-Jen , Lai Mei-Jun , Wu Shu-Wei , Lin Min-Huey , Hung Hsu-Shan , Lin Yu-Chun , Huang Yu-Tsung , Lee Ya-Fen , Tsai Meng-Kun , Lee Chih-Yuan
Published: June 2023

Patients undergoing kidney transplantation have a poor response to vaccination and a higher risk of disease progression of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The effectiveness of vaccine doses and antibody titer tests against the mutant variant in these patients remains unclear. We retrospectively analyzed the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a single medical center according to vaccine doses and immune responses before the outbreak. Among 622 kidney transplant patients, there were 77 patients without vaccination, 26 with one dose, 74 with two doses, 357 with three, and 88 with four doses. The vaccination status and infection rate proportion were similar to the general population. Patients undergoing more than three vaccinations had a lower risk of infection (odds ratio = 0.6527, 95% CI = 0.4324–0.9937) and hospitalization (odds ratio = 0.3161, 95% CI = 0.1311–0.7464). Antibody and cellular responses were measured in 181 patients after vaccination. Anti-spike protein antibody titer of more than 1,689.3 BAU/mL is protective against SARS-CoV-2 infection (odds ratio = 0.4136, 95% CI = 0.1800–0.9043). A cellular response by interferon-γ release assay was not correlated with the disease (odds ratio = 1.001, 95% CI = 0.9995–1.002). In conclusion, despite mutant strain, more than three doses of the first-generation vaccine and high antibody titers provided better protection against the omicron variant for a kidney transplant recipient.
Work–Life Balance and Work from Home Experience: Perceived Organizational Support and Resilience of European Workers during COVID-19
Authors: Ferreira Pedro , Gomes Sofia
Published: June 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, most workers had to work from home due to the successive lockdowns across European countries. This constraint posed significant challenges to many workers and companies regarding working conditions and work–life balance. Framed by the job demands–resources model (JD–R), the goal of this paper is to examine the association of perceived organizational support (POS) and individual resilience (IR) with work–life balance (WLB) during the COVID-19 pandemic across European countries. This goal is complemented by assessing the role of work-from-home (WFH) as a mediator. Based on a quantitative approach, data were extracted from the second round of the survey “Living, Working, and COVID-19” from Eurofound. A series of regressions using SEM-PLS tested the hypothesis. Findings reveal that WFH negatively influences WLB. POS positively influences WFH and negatively influences WLB when mediated by WFH. IR negatively influences WFH and positively influences WLB when mediated by WFH. These results have essential theoretical implications related to the relations between individual and organizational resources and WLB and practical implications for the management of WFH, namely, the importance of providing adequate organizational resources and promoting the development of individual resources.
A Case Study of Air Quality and a Health Index over a Port, an Urban and a High-Traffic Location in Rhodes City
Authors: Logothetis Ioannis , Antonopoulou Christina , Zisopoulos Georgios , Mitsotakis Adamantios , Grammelis Panagiotis
Published: June 2023

One of people’s greatest concerns about air quality degradation is its impact on human health. This work is a case study that aims to investigate the air quality and the related impact on people’s health in a coastal city over the eastern Mediterranean. The analysis proceeded during a low-tourist density period, covering the days from 17 to 27 November 2022. Hourly PM2.5, NO2 and O3 concentration records from three, mobile, Air Quality Monitoring Systems (AQMS), established in an urban location, port and central area of Rhodes city, are analyzed. To investigate the impact of pollution levels on human health, the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is calculated. The daily and diurnal variation of pollutants’ concentration and AQHI among the different areas, as well as the relation among the ambient air pollutants and AQHI, are studied. Additionally, to investigate the impact of wind regime on the variation of pollution and AQHI levels, the hourly zonal and meridional wind-speed components, as well as the temperature at 2 m, the dew point temperature at 2 m, and the height of the boundary layer from ERA5 reanalysis, are retrieved for the region of the southeastern Mediterranean. Results show that the highest pollution level occurs in the city center of Rhodes, compared to the rest of the studied locations. In general, the findings do not show exceedances of the pollutants’ concentration according to the European Directive 2008/50/EC. Moreover, findings show that in some cases, the health risk is classified from Low to Moderate in terms of AQHI. The analysis indicates that the climate conditions affect the pollutants’ concentration due to dispersion, and likely, the atmospheric transport of pollutants. Finally, this work aims to improve the knowledge regarding the air quality of southeastern Greece, promoting the framework for the green and sustainable development of the South Aegean Sea.
Dietary Probiotics Modulate Gut Barrier and Immune-Related Gene Expression and Histomorphology in Broiler Chickens under Non- and Pathogen-Challenged Conditions: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yosi Fitra , Metzler-Zebeli Barbara U.
Published: June 2023

Data published in the literature about the favorable effects of dietary probiotics on gut health in broiler chickens are inconsistent. To obtain a more comprehensive understanding, we conducted a meta-analysis to assess the effects of probiotics on the gut barrier and immune-related gene expression, histomorphology, and growth in chickens that were either challenged or non-challenged with pathogens. From the 54 articles published between 2012 and 2022, subsets of data, separately for non-challenged and challenged conditions, for response variables were created. The mean dietary probiotic concentrations ranged from 4.7 to 6.2 and 4.7 to 7.2 log10 colony-forming unit/kg under non-challenged and challenged conditions, respectively. Probiotics increased the expression of genes for mucins and tight junction proteins in the jejunum and ileum at weeks 3 and 6. The stimulatory effect of probiotics on tight junction protein expression was partly stronger in challenged than in non-challenged birds. Meta-regressions also showed an anti-inflammatory effect of probiotics under challenged conditions by modulating the expression of cytokines. Probiotics improved villus height at certain ages in the small intestine while not influencing growth performance. Dietary metabolizable energy, crude protein, and days post-infection modified the effects of probiotics on the observed variables. Overall, meta-regressions support the beneficial effects of probiotics on gut integrity and structure in chickens.
Antifungal Properties of Hydrazine-Based Compounds against Candida albicans
Authors: Camaioni Louis , Lambert Dylan , Sendid Boualem , Billamboz Muriel , Jawhara Samir
Published: June 2023

Candida albicans, an opportunistic yeast, is the most common cause of fungal infection. In the past decade, there has been an increase in C. albicans resistance to existing antifungal drugs, which has necessitated the development of new antifungal agents. In the present study, screening 60 compounds from the JUNIA chemical library enabled us to explore an additional 11 hybrid compounds that contain pyrrolidinone rings and hydrazine moieties for their potential antifungal activities. This chemical series was identified with fair to excellent antifungal activities. Among this series, three molecules (Hyd.H, Hyd.OCH3, and Hyd.Cl) significantly reduced C. albicans viability, with rapid fungicidal activity. In addition, these three compounds exhibited significant antifungal activity against clinically isolated fluconazole- or caspofungin-resistant C. albicans strains. Hyd.H, Hyd.OCH3, and Hyd.Cl did not show any cytotoxicity against human cancer cell lines up to a concentration of 50 µg/mL and decreased Candida biofilm formation, with a significant reduction of 60% biofilm formation with Hyd.OCH3. In an infection model of Caenorhabditis elegans with C. albicans, hydrazine-based compounds significantly reduced nematode mortality. Overall, fungicidal activity was observed for Hyd.H, Hyd.OCH3, and Hyd.Cl against C. albicans, and these compounds protected C. elegans from C. albicans infection.
New Strategies to Kill Metabolically-Dormant Cells Directly Bypassing the Need for Active Cellular Processes
Authors: Stojowska-Swędrzyńska Karolina , Kuczyńska-Wiśnik Dorota , Laskowska Ewa
Published: June 2023

Antibiotic therapy failure is often caused by the presence of persister cells, which are metabolically-dormant bacteria capable of surviving exposure to antimicrobials. Under favorable conditions, persisters can resume growth leading to recurrent infections. Moreover, several studies have indicated that persisters may promote the evolution of antimicrobial resistance and facilitate the selection of specific resistant mutants; therefore, in light of the increasing numbers of multidrug-resistant infections worldwide, developing efficient strategies against dormant cells is of paramount importance. In this review, we present and discuss the efficacy of various agents whose antimicrobial activity is independent of the metabolic status of the bacteria as they target cell envelope structures. Since the biofilm-environment is favorable for the formation of dormant subpopulations, anti-persister strategies should also include agents that destroy the biofilm matrix or inhibit biofilm development. This article reviews examples of selected cell wall hydrolases, polysaccharide depolymerases and antimicrobial peptides. Their combination with standard antibiotics seems to be the most promising approach in combating persistent infections.
The Eco-Immunological Relevance of the Anti-Oxidant Response in Invasive Molluscs
Authors: Malagoli Davide , Franchi Nicola , Sacchi Sandro
Published: June 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are volatile and short-lived molecules playing important roles in several physiological functions, including immunity and physiological adaptation to unsuitable environmental conditions. In an eco-immunological view, the energetic costs associated with an advantageous metabolic apparatus able to cope with wide changes in environmental parameters, e.g., temperature range, water salinity or drought, could be further balanced by the advantages that this apparatus may also represent in other situations, e.g., during the immune response. This review provides an overview of molluscs included in the IUCN list of the worst invasive species, highlighting how their relevant capacity to manage ROS production during physiologically challenging situations can also be advantageously employed during the immune response. Current evidence suggests that a relevant capacity to buffer ROS action and their damaging consequences is advantageous in the face of both environmental and immunological challenges, and this may represent a trait for potential invasiveness. This should be considered in order to obtain or update information when investigating the potential of the invasiveness of emerging alien species, and also in view of ongoing climate changes.
High Imperceptible Data Hiding Method Based on Combination Theory for AMBTC Compressed Images
Authors: Anggriani Kurnia , Chiou Shu-Fen , Wu Nan-I , Hwang Min-Shiang
Published: June 2023

The rapid development of digital multimedia has resulted in a massive storm of large-scale data. The data compression method reduces data size and lowers transmission costs. As a result, data-hiding research in the compression domain poses significant challenges to researchers. This work proposes a highly imperceptible data-hiding scheme for a compressed absolute moment block truncation coding (AMBTC) image. The proposed method addresses the shortcomings of the current block-based AMBTC data-hiding scheme, with an incredibly complex block as non-embedding. This is because embedding in complex blocks causes substantial distortions in the image, resulting in low imperceptibility performance. Combination theory was implemented to ensure the high imperceptibility of the modified compressed images. The experimental findings proved that the proposed method achieved high imperceptibility and high hiding capacity by modifying one pixel in a block to embed confidential bits.