bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the Effects of Socioeconomic Development on Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) in China’s Cities Based on Spatial Autocorrelation Analysis and MGWR Model
Authors: Wang Yanzhao , Cao Jianfei
Published: February 2023

Understanding the characteristics of PM2.5 and its socioeconomic factors is crucial for managing air pollution. Research on the socioeconomic influences of PM2.5 has yielded several results. However, the spatial heterogeneity of the effect of various socioeconomic factors on PM2.5 at different scales has yet to be studied. This paper collated PM2.5 data for 359 cities in China from 2005 to 2020, as well as socioeconomic data: GDP per capita (GDPP), secondary industry proportion (SIP), number of industrial enterprise units above the scale (NOIE), general public budget revenue as a proportion of GDP (PBR), and population density (PD). The spatial autocorrelation and multiscale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) model was used to analyze the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of PM2.5 and explore the impact of different scales of economic factors. Results show that the overall economic level was developing well, with a spatial distribution trend of high in the east and low in the west. With a large positive spatial correlation and a highly concentrated clustering pattern, the PM2.5 concentration declined in 2020. Secondly, the OLS model’s statistical results were skewed and unable to shed light on the association between economic factors and PM2.5. Predictions from the GWR and MGWR models may be more precise than those from the OLS model. The scales of the effect were produced by the MGWR model’s variable bandwidth and regression coefficient. In particular, the MGWR model’s regression coefficient and variable bandwidth allowed it to account for the scale influence of economic factors; it had the highest adjusted R2 values, smallest AICc values, and residual sums of squares. Lastly, the PBR had a clear negative impact on PM2.5, whereas the negative impact of GDPP was weak and positively correlated in some western regions, such as Gansu and Qinghai provinces. The SIP, NOIE, and PD were positively correlated with PM2.5 in most regions. Our findings can serve as a theoretical foundation for researching the associations between PM2.5 and socioeconomic variables, and for encouraging the coequal growth of the economy and the environment.
Effects of a Multicomponent Programme for Improving Physical and Psychological Health in Victims of Intimate Partner Violence: Study Protocol for a Randomised Control Trial
Authors: Calle-Guisado Violeta , Adsuar Jose Carmelo , Barrios-Fernandez Sabina , Mendoza-Muñoz María , Muñoz-Bermejo Laura , Domínguez-Muñoz Francisco Javier , Ortiz-González Luis , Rojo-Ramos Jorge
Published: February 2023

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a public health problem that psychologically and physically affects the women who suffer from it. In this article, we propose an intervention protocol based on therapeutic tourism through adventure physical activities and psychological therapy that could improve the psychological and physical health of women participants. We propose a randomized study where participants will be separated into two groups, control and experimental, and we will perform measurements including self-concept, self-image, depression, and perceived stress, combining these with physiological measurements of stress level by determining stress-related hormones (Cortisol and DHEA), as well as the overall cost-effectiveness of the program. All data collected at the end of the protocol will be statistically analysed. If the final data are positive and it is feasible, this protocol could be proposed as a measure for the treatment of the sequelae of victims of gender violence.
Rural Land Transfer and Urban Settlement Intentions of Rural Migrants: Evidence from a Rural Land System Reform in China
Authors: Su Yinxin , Hu Mingzhi , Wu Yuzhe
Published: February 2023

Using data from the China Migrants Dynamic Survey, this paper provides new evidence on the impact of rural land transfer on urban settlement intentions of rural migrants. There was a rural land system reform in rural China that provided increased compensation for rural land expropriation and allowed the transaction of collective construction land for business purposes. We determine an increase in urban settlement intentions of rural migrants following the reform as an exogenous change in rural land transfer of rural migrants. We examine two mechanisms that may explain how the reform increased the settlement intentions of rural migrants, and our empirical evidence suggests that the reform increased social integration and reduced rural place attachment of rural migrants. Furthermore, we determine variations in the effect of the reform across migrants of various ages, social security benefits, and migration distances. Overall, this study extends the implications of the market-oriented rural land reform to sustainable and inclusive urbanization and highlights the role of social integration and rural place attachment in migration decisions.
Acute Pesticide Poisoning in Tobacco Farming, According to Different Criteria
Authors: Faria Neice Muller Xavier , Meucci Rodrigo Dalke , Fiori Nadia Spada , Carret Maria Laura Vidal , Mello-da-Silva Carlos Augusto , Fassa Anaclaudia Gastal
Published: February 2023

Background: Brazil is one of the world’s largest pesticide consumers, but information on pesticide poisoning among workers is scarce. Objective: To evaluate acute pesticide poisoning among tobacco growers, according to different criteria. Methods: This was a two-step cross-sectional study with 492 pesticide applicators. It used a 25 question pesticide-related symptoms (PRS) questionnaire and medical diagnosis for comparison with toxicological assessment. Associations were evaluated using Poisson regression. Results: 10.6% reported two or more PRS, while 8.1% reported three or more. Furthermore, 12.2% received a medical diagnosis of poisoning. According to toxicologists, possible cases accounted for 14.2% and probable cases for 4.3%. PRS increased during the period of greater exposure. Those exposed to dithiocarbamates, sulfentrazone, pyrethroids, fipronil and iprodione exhibited more PRS. The number of exposure types, multi-chemical exposure, clothes wet with pesticides and spillage on the body/clothes were associated with acute poisonings. All criteria showed sensitivity greater than 79% for probable cases but only greater than 70% for medical diagnosis when compared to possible cases, presenting substantial Kappa agreement. Conclusion: The prevalence of acute pesticide poisoning is much higher than officially recorded. Trained physicians can screen for pesticide poisoning. It is necessary to improve workers’ education to reduce pesticide use and exposure to them.
Design and Development of Tools for Risk Evaluation of Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease in Community Pharmacy
Authors: Rondeaux Sarah , Braeckman Tessa , Beckwé Mieke , El Oueriaghli El Ghammaz Dounia , Devroey Dirk , De Vriese Carine
Published: February 2023

There is an increasing motivation to implement pharmacist-led screening services in community pharmacies. This study aims to develop tools to support the pharmacist in the context of a diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk assessment service. Our development involved a multistep process using a user-centred approach, including a need assessment phase (14 patients, 17 pharmacists) and a creative design phase, followed by the evaluation of the materials (10 patients, 16 pharmacists). Three following themes covering educational needs emerged from stakeholders’ discussions: “content”, “layout”, and “form”, with three additional themes regarding the practical organisation: “software”, “awareness”, and “referral”. Based on the need assessment, tools for patient education purposes and awareness campaigns were created. During the development, special attention was paid to the writing style and structure with less text and more graphical colourful elements to suit patients with different health literacy and educational levels. The evaluation phase allowed researchers to observe participants engaging with the materials. Overall, participants were satisfied with the tools. The contents were considered valuable and relevant. However, adaptations were necessary to ensure their understanding and long-term usability. Finally, future research is required to evaluate the materials’ impact on patients’ behaviour towards their identified risk factors and ensure their effectiveness.
Experience of Chinese Recent Retirees on the Effects of Retirement on Healthy Ageing in Shenzhen and Hong Kong
Authors: Lai Daniel W. L. , Ruan Yong-Xin , Wang Julia Juan , Liu Emma H. S. , Zhou Jia-Jia
Published: February 2023

This study examined perspectives of recent retirees in Shenzhen and Hong Kong on how retirement influenced their healthy ageing. It investigated retirees’ perceptions of healthy ageing and the ways in which healthy ageing connected with retirees’ transition into retirement. A qualitative design with narrative interviews was used to interview twelve recent retirees in Shenzhen and thirteen in Hong Kong. The participants elaborated their perspectives on healthy ageing, which covered physical, mental, social, and financial domains. Retirees in both cities identified healthy ageing as maintaining an independent life and avoiding becoming a burden on family members. This study found that retirement declined physical health (in parallel with raised awareness of health promotion), posed both negative and positive influences on mental health, and shrank peripheral social networks of retirees. In addition, regional social welfare systems have different impacts on retirees’ financial security and social participation. Retirees in Hong Kong reported higher stress of financial security and a strong desire for labor participation. Migrant–local welfare gaps were documented by retirees in Shenzhen. This study suggested that retirement planning, establishing a multi-pillar retirement-protection system, and narrowing the welfare gap between migrants and local residents should be implemented to reinforce healthy ageing.
Effects of Lead and Zinc Exposure on Uptake and Exudation Levels, Chlorophyll-a, and Phycobiliproteins in Sarcodia suiae
Authors: Chang Chia-Ching , Tseng Chung-Chih , Han Tai-Wei , Barus Beta Susanto , Chuech Jhih-Yang , Cheng Sha-Yen
Published: February 2023

The present study aimed to determine the changes in the biosorption, bioaccumulation, chlorophyll-a (chl-a), phycobiliproteins, and exudation in the red seaweed Sarcodia suiae exposed to lead and zinc. The seaweed was exposed to ambient lead and zinc environments for 5 days before being transferred to fresh seawater, and the changes in biodesorption, biodecumulation, chl-a, and phycobiliprotein levels in S. suiae were investigated. Lead and zinc biosorption and bioaccumulation in the seaweed increased with the increase in the lead and zinc concentrations and exposure times. Meanwhile, the biosorption and bioaccumulation of zinc in the seaweed following exposure to zinc were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the biosorption and bioaccumulation of lead in the seaweed following exposure to lead with the same concentration at each exposure time. The chl-a, phycoerythrin (PE), phycocyanin (PC), and allophycocyanin (APC) contents in the seaweed significantly decreased with the increase in the lead and zinc concentrations and exposure times. The chl-a, PE, PC, and APC contents in S. suiae, which was exposed to 5 Pb2+ mg/L for 5 days, were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in the seaweed exposed to zinc at the same concentration and for the same exposure times. In the lead and zinc exudation tests, the highest biodesorption and biodecumulation were observed on the 1st day of exudation after the seaweed was transferred to fresh seawater. The residual percentages of the lead and zinc in the seaweed cells were 15.86% and 73.08% after 5 days of exudation, respectively. The biodesorption rate and biodecumulation rate of the seaweed exposed to lead were higher than those of the seaweed exposed to zinc. However, the effect of lead on chl-a and phycobiliproteins was greater than that of zinc. This might be the result of lead not being a necessary metal for these algae, whereas zinc is.
Tai Chi Exercise for Mental and Physical Well-Being in Patients with Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sani Norliyana Abdullah , Yusoff Siti Suhaila Mohd , Norhayati Mohd Noor , Zainudin Aida Maziha
Published: February 2023

Tai Chi is a mindfulness–body practice that has physiological and psychosocial benefits and can be integrated into the prevention and rehabilitation of various medical conditions; however, the effectiveness of Tai Chi in the treatment of depression remains unclear. This review aimed to determine the effects of Tai Chi exercise on mental and physical well-being in patients with depressive symptoms. We searched databases for English language publications that appeared during January 2000–2022. The included trials were RCTs that involved people with depression with no other medical conditions, and included both adolescent and adult samples. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model and the heterogeneity was estimated using I2 statistics. The quality of each trial was assessed according to the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. The eight trials were divided into two comparisons: (1) a combination of Tai Chi and antidepressants versus standard antidepressants; (2) Tai Chi versus no intervention. The Tai Chi intervention showed improvements in mental and physical well-being as evidenced by the reductions in depression and anxiety and improved quality of life (QOL) of the patients with depressive symptoms. Further well-controlled RCTs are recommended with a precision trial design and larger sample sizes.
The Impact of Economic Growth Target Constraints on Environmental Pollution: Evidence from China
Authors: Nie Changfei , Luo Wen , Feng Yuan , Chen Zhi
Published: February 2023

Economic growth target (EGT) has become an essential tool for macroeconomic administration all around the world. This study examines the effect and mechanisms of EGT on environmental pollution (EP) by using economic growth target data from provincial Government Work Reports in China from 2003–2019. The conclusions denote that EGT significantly aggravates regional EP, and it still stands after robustness tests and instrumental variable (IV) estimation. The result of mediating effect shows that EGT aggravates EP mainly from three ways: investment surge, technological innovation, and resource allocation. The result of the moderating effect shows that government’s fiscal space positively adjusts the effect of EGT on EP, while environmental regulation negatively adjusts the effect of EGT on EP. The heterogeneity test reflects that the effect of EGT on EP is more significant on provinces that adopt a “hard constraint” setting method and fulfill EGT. Our study provides a reference to better balance the link between EGT and sustainable development for the government department.
Arterial Stiffness as a Predictor of the Index of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Chang Guili , Hu Yueliang , Ge Qian , Chu Shaoli , Avolio Alberto , Zuo Junli
Published: February 2023

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and cardiovascular disease in the hypertensive population in China and to determine the specific cfPWV cut-off value for assessing future cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 630 hospital patients with primary hypertension and multiple cardiovascular risk factors or complications involving damage to clinical target organs. The study was conducted between July 2007 and October 2008. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk calculations were computed according to criteria presented by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association. Patients were stratified by a predefined risk threshold of 10% and divided into two groups: ASCVD ≥ 10% or ASCVD < 10%. cfPWV was used as a marker of arterial stiffness. A receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was applied to establish the optimal cfPWV cut-off point to differentiate between participants with and without ASCVD risk. Results: In the study cohort of 630 patients (age 63.55.2 ± 8.6 years, 61.7% male) with primary hypertension, the pressure indices (augmented pressure, augmentation index [AIx], aortic pulse pressure, aortic systolic pressure [SBP]) and Framingham Risk Scores (FRS) were greater in females than in males (p < 0.001); ASCVD risk scores and peripheral diastolic pressure (DBP) were higher in males (p < 0.05). All hemodynamic indices showed a significant positive correlation with ASCVD risk scores and FRS; AIx was not correlated with ASCVD risk scores. In multivariate logistic analysis, cfPWV was significantly associated with ASCVD risk (OR: 1.324, 95% confidence interval: 1.119–1.565, p < 0.001) after adjusting for age, gender, smoking, body mass index, total cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, antihypertensive treatment, statin treatment, and DBP. In the ROC analysis, the area under the curve was 0.758 and 0.672 for cfPWV and aortic SBP (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively); the optimal critical value of cfPWV and aortic SBP was 12.45 m/s (sensitivity 63.2%, specificity 77.8%) and 124.5 mmHg (sensitivity 63.9%, specificity 65.3%). Conclusions: cfPWV is significantly correlated with the risk of ASCVD. The best cut-off value of cfPWV for assessing future CVD risk in the hypertensive population in China is 12.45 m/s.
Mesothelioma Due to Workplace Exposure: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis of Current Situation and Future Trends
Authors: Lai Hanpeng , Hu Chenglei , Qu Man , Liu Xing , Xue Yu , Xu Ping , Hao Dongdong
Published: February 2023

Background: This article provides an overview of the current status and research progress of mesothelioma. Methods: A total of 2638 documents published from 1 January 2004 to 30 November 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection and analyzed via Microsoft Office Excel 2019, VOSviewer 1.6.18, and Tableau 2022.2. Results: There was an obvious increase in the number of publications regarding mesothelioma in the last 18 years, with the United States dominating the research field with 715 publications and 23,882 citations, while the University of Turin contributed the most (118). Occupational & Environmental Medicine was the most popular journal (80), with Corrado Magnani being the most prolific author (52) and Michele Carbone obtaining the most citations (4472). “Oncology” and “Health Science of Environment & Occupation” were the two main subjects, while the keywords “asbestos”, “lung cancer”, “gene expression”, “apoptosis”, “survival”, and “cisplatin” were the most popular. Conclusions: The containment of mesothelioma calls for more participation from low- and middle-income countries, and further attention needs to be paid to clinical research.
Relationship between Executive Functions, Social Cognition, and Attachment State of Mind in Adolescence: An Explorative Study
Authors: Williams Riccardo , Andreassi Silvia , Moselli Marta , Fantini Fiorella , Tanzilli Annalisa , Lingiardi Vittorio , Laghi Fiorenzo
Published: February 2023

Background: The passage from pre-adolescence to adolescence is presented as a turning point for the achievement of those abilities in social understanding as they commonly appear in adulthood. Developmental perspectives point to the possible role of neuro-cognitive maturation and social experiences to facilitate this growth. This paper has the goal to goalsto propose a valid and reliable measure of the new quantitative and qualitative advancements in social understanding occurring in the adolescent passage; relying on this, the research has two main objectives (a) to establish the associations between the advancements in social understanding and the executive functions held responsible for the neuro-cognitive rearrangements of adolescence; (c) to evidence the significant associations between attachment models and the development of social understanding in this phase of life. Methods: 100 subjects (50 boys and 50 girls, aged 11–15) were administered with AICA, SCORS, CNT, Stroop Color-Word Test, and WISC-III. Results: Advancements in the complexity of self–other representations and mentalization of interpersonal exchanges significantly occurs in the passage from pre-adolescence to adolescence and seem to be promoted by increased performances in executive control and cognitive shifting. Dismissing state of mind with respect to attachment is associated with lower development of social understanding in adolescence. The neurocognitive reorganization that underlies the passage from pre-adolescence to adolescence seems to provide the scaffolding for more sophisticated interpretations of the social world. Past and current affective experience can boost or hinder the full deployment of such human maturational potential. Given the importance of social cognition for adjustment and psychopathology, clinical intervention should target the amelioration of individual and family abilities in social reasoning and mentalization.
Variations of Habitat Quality and Ecological Risk and Their Correlations with Landscape Metrics in a Robust Human Disturbed Coastal Region—Case Study: Xinggang Town in Southern China
Authors: Han Huiqing , Su Zhihua , Yang Guangbin
Published: February 2023

This paper explores how landscape risk and habitat quality vary in coastal areas with strong anthropogenic disturbance based on a case study. We analyze the temporal–spatial variations of habitat quality and ecological risk in the coastal region by adopting the methods of theInVEST model and the ecological risk index. The correlations of habitat quality and ecological risk with landscape metrics are subsequently quantified. The results indicated the presence of obvious distance gradients in relation to the deterioration of habitat quality and the increase in ecological risk. Moreover, the gradient area close to the coastline exhibits significant habitat quality and ecological risk changes. The majority of landscape metrics show positive correlations with habitat quality and ecological risk, and these correlations vary with the distance gradients. Since the rapid urbanization of the coastal region, the marked expansion of built-up land and decrease in natural landscapes has significantly impacted the landscape pattern index and, consequently, changed the habitat quality and ecological risk level.
Response of Soil Detachment Rate to Sediment Load and Model Examination: A Key Process Simulation of Rill Erosion on Steep Loessial Hillslopes
Authors: Shen Nan , Wang Zhanli , Zhang Fengbao , Zhou Chunhong
Published: February 2023

The rate of soil detachment by water flow indicates soil erosion intensity directly. The exact relation between soil detachment rate and actual sediment load in water flow, however, is still unclear, and the existing relationships have not been adequately tested. The aims of the present study were to investigate the response of soil detachment rate to sediment load using rill flume data with loessial soil and to quantitatively examine the soil detachment equations in the WEPP and EUROSEM soil erosion models. Six slopes were combined with seven flow discharges to measure detachment rates under seven sediment loads using a rill flume with a soil-feeding hopper. Significant differences were found among the soil detachment rate by different sediment loads in low sediment load levels, but an insensitive response of soil detachment rate to sediment load was found under high levels of sediment load. The soil detachment rate was proved to be negatively linearly correlated with sediment load. The rill detachment equation in the WEPP model predicted the soil detachment rate by rill flow very well under our experiment condition. The soil detachment equation in the EUROSEM model underestimated the detachment rates under controlled conditions, but removing the setting velocity from the equation greatly improved prediction. Further experiments that could reflect the dynamic convective detachment and deposition process need to be conducted to compare with the present examination results and to further understand rill erosion processes.
The Mental Health Costs of Armed Conflicts—A Review of Systematic Reviews Conducted on Refugees, Asylum-Seekers and People Living in War Zones
Authors: Carpiniello Bernardo
Published: February 2023

Aims: Armed conflicts produce a wide series of distressing consequences, including death, all of which impact negatively on the lives of survivors. This paper focuses specifically on the mental health consequences of war on adults and child/adolescent refugees or those living in war zones through a review of all systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses published from 2005 up until the current time. Results: Fifteen systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses conducted in adult populations, and seven relating to children and adolescents, were selected for the purpose of this review. Prevalence rates of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were two- to three-fold higher amongst people exposed to armed conflict compared to those who had not been exposed, with women and children being the most vulnerable to the outcome of armed conflicts. A series of war-related, migratory and post-migratory stressors contribute to short- and long-term mental health issues in the internally displaced, asylum seekers and refugees. Conclusion: It should be a required social responsibility for all psychiatrists and psychiatric associations to commit to raising awareness amongst political decision-makers as to the mental health consequences caused by armed conflicts, as part of their duty of care for people experiencing the consequences of war.
Psychological Distress, Resilience, and Help-Seeking Experiences of LGBTIQA+ People in Rural Australia
Authors: Reynish Tamara , Hoang Ha , Bridgman Heather , Nic Giolla Easpaig Bróna
Published: February 2023

The aims of this paper were to explore mental health, the aspects associated with psychological distress and resilience, and the help-seeking experiences of LGBTIQA+ people. This research used a mixed-method approach using a survey and semi-structured interviews. The study was conducted in rural and remote Tasmania, Australia. Sixty-six participants completed the survey, and 30 participated in interviews. Participants reported a range of mental health concerns and varied experiences of accessing care and support in rural Australia. Depression and anxiety were the most common among participants. Almost half of all participants had attempted suicide in their lifetime, and just over a fifth had self-harmed. Two-thirds of the sample had high/very high psychological distress. For respondents, lacking social support was associated with increased psychological distress and low level of resilience. Public acceptance and social support enhanced interviewees’ resilience. Interviewees experienced a lack of nearby mental health professionals, were unimpeded by operating hours, and trusted mental health professionals, which impacted help seeking and mental health. The findings indicate that acceptance, access and proximity to care, and mental health professionals’ cultural competence would benefit rural Tasmanian LGBTIQA+ peoples’ mental health. There is a need to improve public education, improve mental health professionals’ curricula, and provide inclusive and tailored mental health care.
Monitoring Multi-Scale Ecological Change and Its Potential Drivers in the Economic Zone of the Tianshan Mountains’ Northern Slopes, Xinjiang, China
Authors: Tang Lina , Kasimu Alimujiang , Ma Haitao , Eziz Mamattursun
Published: February 2023

Accurately capturing the changing patterns of ecological quality in the urban agglomeration on the northern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains (UANSTM) and researching its significant impacts responds to the requirements of high-quality sustainable urban development. In this study, the spatial and temporal distribution patterns of remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) were obtained by normalization and PCA transformation of four basic indicators based on Landsat images. It then employed geographic detectors to analyze the factors that influence ecological change. The result demonstrates that: (1) In the distribution of land use conversions and degrees of human disturbance, built-up land, principally urban land, and agricultural land, represented by dry land, are rising, while the shrinkage of grassland is the most substantial. The degree of human disturbance is increasing overall for glaciers. (2) The overall ecological environment of the northern slopes of Tianshan is relatively poor. Temporally, the ecological quality changes and fluctuates, with an overall rising trend. Spatially, ecological quality is low in the north and south and high in the center, with high values concentrated in the mountains and agriculture and low values in the Gobi and desert. However, on a large scale, the ecological quality of the Urumqi–Changji–Shihezi metropolitan area has worsened dramatically compared to other regions. (3) Driving factor detection showed that LST and NDVI were the most critical influencing factors, with an upward trend in the influence of WET. Typically, LST has the biggest influence on RSEI when interacting with NDVI. In terms of the broader region, the influence of social factors is smaller, but the role of human interference in the built-up area of the oasis city can be found to be more significant at large scales. The study shows that it is necessary to strengthen ecological conservation efforts in the UANSTM region, focusing on the impact of urban and agricultural land expansion on surface temperature and vegetation.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Eating Disorders in Military First Line of Defense against COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study during the Second Epidemic Wave in Peru
Authors: Valladares-Garrido Mario J. , León-Figueroa Darwin A. , Picón-Reátegui Cinthia Karina , García-Vicente Abigaíl , Valladares-Garrido Danai , Failoc-Rojas Virgilio E. , Pereira-Victorio César Johan
Published: February 2023

Few studies have evaluated eating disorders in military personnel engaged in defense activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with eating disorders in military personnel from Lambayeque, Peru. A secondary data analysis was performed among 510 military personnel during the second epidemic wave of COVID-19 in Peru. We used the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) to assess eating disorders. We explored associations with insomnia, food insecurity, physical activity, resilience, fear to COVID-19, burnout syndrome, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress and selected sociodemographic variables. Eating disorders were experienced by 10.2% of participants. A higher prevalence of eating disorders was associated with having 7 to 12 months (PR: 2.97; 95% CI: 1.24–7.11) and 19 months or more (PR: 2.62; 95% CI: 1.11–6.17) working in the first line of defense against COVID-19, fear of COVID-19 (PR: 2.20; 95% CI: 1.26–3.85), burnout syndrome (PR: 3.73; 95% CI: 1.90–7.33) and post-traumatic stress (PR: 2.97; 95% CI: 1.13–7.83). A low prevalence of eating disorders was found in the military personnel. However, prevention of this problem should be focused on at-risk groups that experience mental health burdens.
Efficacy of Pilates on Pain, Functional Disorders and Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yu Zhengze , Yin Yikun , Wang Jialin , Zhang Xingxing , Cai Hejia , Peng Fenglin
Published: February 2023

Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a common health problem. Pilates is a unique exercise therapy. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of Pilates on pain, functional disorders, and quality of life in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, VIP, Wanfang Data, CBM, EBSCO, and Embase were searched. Randomized controlled trials of Pilates in the treatment of CLBP were collected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 12.2. Results: 19 randomized controlled trials with a total of 1108 patients were included. Compared with the controls, the results showed the following values: Pain Scale [standard mean difference; SMD = −1.31, 95%CI (−1.80, −0.83), p < 0.00001], Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) [mean difference; MD = −4.35, 95%CI (−5.77, −2.94), p < 0.00001], Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) [MD = −2.26, 95%CI (-4.45, −0.08), p = 0.04], 36-item Short-Form (SF-36) (Physical Function (PF) [MD = 5.09, 95%CI (0.20, 9.99), p = 0.04], Role Physical (RP) [MD = 5.02, 95%CI (−1.03, 11.06), p = 0.10], Bodily Pain (BP) [MD = 8.79, 95%CI (−1.57, 19.16), p = 0.10], General Health (GH) [MD = 8.45, 95%CI (−5.61, 22.51), p = 0.24], Vitality (VT) [MD = 8.20, 95%CI(−2.30, 18.71), p = 0.13], Social Functioning (SF) [MD = −1.11, 95%CI (−7.70, 5.48), p = 0.74], Role Emotional (RE) [MD = 0.86, 95%CI (−5.53, 7.25), p = 0.79], Mental Health (MH) [MD = 11.04, 95%CI (−12.51, 34.59), p = 0.36]), Quebec Back in Disability Scale (QBPDS) [MD = −5.51, 95%CI (−23.84, 12.81), p = 0.56], and the sit-and-reach test [MD = 1.81, 95%CI (−0.25, 3.88), p = 0.09]. Conclusions: This meta-analysis reveals that Pilates may have positive efficacy for pain relief and the improvement of functional disorders in CLBP patients, but the improvement in quality of life seems to be less obvious. Registration: PROSPERO CRD42022348173.
Towards Effective, Sustainable Solution for Hospital Wastewater Treatment to Cope with the Post-Pandemic Era
Authors: Liu Ang , Zhao Yaqian , Cai Yamei , Kang Peiying , Huang Yulong , Li Min , Yang Anran
Published: February 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread across the globe since the end of 2019, posing significant challenges for global medical facilities and human health. Treatment of hospital wastewater is vitally important under this special circumstance. However, there is a shortage of studies on the sustainable wastewater treatment processes utilized by hospitals. Based on a review of the research trends regarding hospital wastewater treatment in the past three years of the COVID-19 outbreak, this review overviews the existing hospital wastewater treatment processes. It is clear that activated sludge processes (ASPs) and the use of membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are the major and effective treatment techniques applied to hospital wastewater. Advanced technology (such as Fenton oxidation, electrocoagulation, etc.) has also achieved good results, but the use of such technology remains small scale for the moment and poses some side effects, including increased cost. More interestingly, this review reveals the increased use of constructed wetlands (CWs) as an eco-solution for hospital wastewater treatment and then focuses in slightly more detail on examining the roles and mechanisms of CWs’ components with respect to purifying hospital wastewater and compares their removal efficiency with other treatment processes. It is believed that a multi-stage CW system with various intensifications or CWs incorporated with other treatment processes constitute an effective, sustainable solution for hospital wastewater treatment in order to cope with the post-pandemic era.
The Impact of Economic Policy Uncertainty on Regional Total-Factor Energy Productivity in China
Authors: Wang Bin , Meng Chenyang , Yu Hongwei
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the effect and possible mechanism of implicit macroeconomic policy uncertainty on regional energy productivity in China. This study takes the unexpected output of environmental pollution from energy consumption into account and uses the DEA-SBM method to measure the regional total-factor energy productivity (RTFEP) of prefecture cities in China from 2003 to 2017. Based on the economic policy uncertainty (EPU) index constructed by Baker et al. this paper estimates the effects of EPU on RTFEP and finds that there is a significant negative relationship between them. Specifically, for every unit increase in EPU, RTFEP will decrease by 5.7%. This paper further examines the mechanism of EPU on RTFEP from the perspective of the market and the government and finds that EPU exerts a restraining effect on RTFEP by affecting the consumption structure of the energy market and government intervention in the economy. In addition, the results show that there is heterogeneity in the impact of EPU on RTFEP which varies between resource-based cities at different development stages and different dominant resources. Finally, this paper proposes to cope with the negative impact of EPU on RTFEP by optimizing the energy consumption structure, regulating government investment areas, and transforming the economic development mode.
HERV-W ENV Induces Innate Immune Activation and Neuronal Apoptosis via linc01930/cGAS Axis in Recent-Onset Schizophrenia
Authors: Li Xuhang , Wu Xiulin , Li Wenshi , Yan Qiujin , Zhou Ping , Xia Yaru , Yao Wei , Zhu Fan
Published: February 2023

Schizophrenia is a severe neuropsychiatric disorder affecting about 1% of individuals worldwide. Increased innate immune activation and neuronal apoptosis are common findings in schizophrenia. Interferon beta (IFN-β), an essential cytokine in promoting and regulating innate immune responses, causes neuronal apoptosis in vitro. However, the precise pathogenesis of schizophrenia is unknown. Recent studies indicate that a domesticated endogenous retroviral envelope glycoprotein of the W family (HERV-W ENV, also called ERVWE1 or syncytin 1), derived from the endogenous retrovirus group W member 1 (ERVWE1) locus on chromosome 7q21.2, has a high level in schizophrenia. Here, we found an increased serum IFN-β level in schizophrenia and showed a positive correlation with HERV-W ENV. In addition, serum long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 1930 (linc01930), decreased in schizophrenia, was negatively correlated with HERV-W ENV and IFN-β. In vitro experiments showed that linc01930, mainly in the nucleus and with noncoding functions, was repressed by HERV-W ENV through promoter activity suppression. Further studies indicated that HERV-W ENV increased IFN-β expression and neuronal apoptosis by restraining the expression of linc01930. Furthermore, HERV-W ENV enhanced cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and stimulator of interferon genes protein (STING) expression and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) phosphorylation in neuronal cells. Notably, cGAS interacted with HERV-W ENV and triggered IFN-β expression and neuronal apoptosis caused by HERV-W ENV. Moreover, Linc01930 participated in the increased neuronal apoptosis and expression level of cGAS and IFN-β induced by HERV-W ENV. To summarize, our results suggested that linc01930 and IFN-β might be novel potential blood-based biomarkers in schizophrenia. The totality of these results also showed that HERV-W ENV facilitated antiviral innate immune response, resulting in neuronal apoptosis through the linc01930/cGAS/STING pathway in schizophrenia. Due to its monoclonal antibody GNbAC1 application in clinical trials, we considered HERV-W ENV might be a reliable therapeutic choice for schizophrenia.
Novel Benzo[a]phenoxazinium Chlorides Functionalized with Sulfonamide Groups as NIR Fluorescent Probes for Vacuole, Endoplasmic Reticulum, and Plasma Membrane Staining
Authors: Ferreira João C. C. , Sousa Rui P. C. L. , Preto A. , Sousa Maria João , Gonçalves M. Sameiro T.
Published: February 2023

The demand for new fluorophores for different biological target imaging is increasing. Benzo[a]phenoxazine derivatives are fluorochromophores that show promising optical properties for bioimaging, namely fluorescent emission at the NIR of the visible region, where biological samples have minimal fluorescence emission. In this study, six new benzo[a]phenoxazinium chlorides possessing sulfonamide groups at 5-amino-positions were synthesized and their optical and biological properties were tested. Compared with previous probes evaluated using fluorescence microscopy, using different S. cerevisiae strains, these probes, with sulfonamide groups, stained the vacuole membrane and/or the perinuclear membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum with great specificity, with some fluorochromophores capable of even staining the plasma membrane. Thus, the addition of a sulfonamide group to the benzo[a]phenoxazinium core increases their specificity and attributes for the fluorescent labeling of cell applications and fractions, highlighting them as quite valid alternatives to commercially available dyes.
The Co-Expression of Estrogen Receptors ERα, ERβ, and GPER in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Hojnik Marko , Sinreih Maša , Anko Maja , Hevir-Kene Neli , Knific Tamara , Pirš Boštjan , Grazio Snježana Frković , Rižner Tea Lanišnik
Published: February 2023

Estrogens have important roles in endometrial cancer (EC) and exert biological effects through the classical estrogen receptors (ERs) ERα and ERβ, and the G-protein–coupled ER, GPER. So far, the co-expression of these three types of ERs has not been studied in EC. We investigated ERα, ERβ, GPER mRNA and protein levels, and their intracellular protein distributions in EC tissue and in adjacent control endometrial tissue. Compared to control endometrial tissue, immunoreactivity for ERα in EC tissue was weaker for nuclei with minor, but unchanged, cytoplasmic staining; mRNA and protein levels showed decreased patterns for ERα in EC tissue. For ERβ, across both tissue types, the immunoreactivity was unchanged for nuclei and cytoplasm, although EC tissues again showed lower mRNA and protein levels compared to adjacent control endometrial tissue. The immunoreactivity of GPER as well as mRNA levels of GPER were unchanged across cancer and control endometrial tissues, while protein levels were lower in EC tissue. Statistically significant correlations of estrogen receptor α (ESR1) versus estrogen receptor β (ESR2) and GPER variant 3,4 versus ESR1 and ESR2 was seen at the mRNA level. At the protein level studied with Western blotting, there was significant correlation of ERα versus GPER, and ERβ versus GPER. While in clinical practice the expression of ERα is routinely tested in EC tissue, ERβ and GPER need to be further studied to examine their potential as prognostic markers, provided that specific and validated antibodies are available.
Deep Paleoproteotyping and Microtomography Revealed No Heart Defect nor Traces of Embalming in the Cardiac Relics of Blessed Pauline Jaricot
Authors: Bourdin Virginie , Charlier Philippe , Crevat Stéphane , Slimani Lotfi , Chaussain Catherine , Kielbasa Mélodie , Pible Olivier , Armengaud Jean
Published: February 2023

Scientific examination of the heart of Blessed Pauline Jaricot—a French missionary figure—was carried out in 2022. As tandem mass spectrometry proteotyping has proven to be valuable to obtain the broad taxonomic repertoire of a given sample without any a priori information, we aimed at exploring the conditions of preservation of the relics and possible conditions of death. Metaproteomics and high-resolution microtomography imaging approaches were combined. A dataset comprising 6731 high-resolution MS/MS spectra was acquired and 968 of these spectra could be assigned to specific peptidic biomolecules. Based on the taxonomical information encompassed by the identified peptide sequences, 5 phyla were identified amongst eukaryota (94% of the biomass): Ascomycota (55%), with the species Aspergillus versicolor, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Aspergillus glaucus, corresponding to expected cadaverous fungal flora; Chordata (42%), represented by a unique species, Homo sapiens; Streptophyta (3%); and Arthropoda (traces). Bacteria (6% of the biomass) were poorly represented. No trace of embalming substance could be retrieved, nor any pathogens. Imaging evidenced no heart defect nor embalming traces. No evidence that was inconsistent with natural and spontaneous conservation could be retrieved. This study prefigures the power of modern molecular techniques such as paleoproteotyping coupled to microtomography to gain insight into historical relics.
RANKL-RANK-OPG Pathway in Charcot Diabetic Foot: Pathophysiology and Clinical-Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Greco Tommaso , Mascio Antonio , Comisi Chiara , Polichetti Chiara , Caravelli Silvio , Mosca Massimiliano , Mondanelli Nicola , Troiano Elisa , Maccauro Giulio , Perisano Carlo
Published: February 2023

Charcot Foot (CF), part of a broader condition known as Charcot Neuro-Osteoarthropathy (CNO), is characterized by neuropathic arthropathy with a progressive alteration of the foot. CNO is one of the most devastating complications in patients with diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy but can also be caused by neurological or infectious diseases. The pathogenesis is multifactorial; many studies have demonstrated the central role of inflammation and the Receptor Activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL)-Receptor Activator of NF-κB (RANK)-Osteoprotegerin (OPG) pathway in the acute phase of the disease, resulting in the serum overexpression of RANKL. This overexpression and activation of this signal lead to increased osteoclast activity and osteolysis, which is a prelude to bone destruction. The aim of this narrative review is to analyze this signaling pathway in bone remodeling, and in CF in particular, to highlight its clinical aspects and possible therapeutic implications of targeting drugs at different levels of the pathway. Drugs that act at different levels in this pathway are anti-RANKL monoclonal antibodies (Denosumab), bisphosphonates (BP), and calcitonin. The literature review showed encouraging data on treatment with Denosumab, although in a few studies and in small sample sizes. In contrast, BPs have been re-evaluated in recent years in relation to the high possibility of side effects, while calcitonin has shown little efficacy on CNO.
Discovery of Novel Thiazolidinedione-Derivatives with Multi-Modal Antidiabetic Activities In Vitro and In Silico
Authors: Arineitwe Charles , Oderinlo Ogunyemi , Tukulula Matshawandile , Khanye Setshaba , Khathi Andile , Sibiya Ntethelelo
Published: February 2023

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and related complications continue to exert a significant burden on health care systems globally. Although conventional pharmacological therapies are beneficial in the management of this metabolic condition, it is still necessary to seek novel potential molecules for its management. On this basis, we have synthesised and evaluated the anti-diabetic properties of four novel thiazolidinedione (TZD)-derivatives. The TZD derivatives were synthesised through the pharmacophore hybridisation strategy based on N-arylpyrrole and TZD. The resultant derivatives at different concentrations were screened against key enzymes of glucose metabolism and glucose utilisation in the liver (HEP-G2) cell line. Additionally, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ activation was performed through docking studies. Docking of these molecules against PPAR-γ predicted strong binding, similar to that of rosiglitazone. Hence, TZDD2 was able to increase glucose uptake in the liver cells as compared to the control. The enzymatic inhibition assays showed a relative inhibition activity; with all four derivatives exhibiting ≥ 50% inhibition activity in the α-amylase inhibition assay and a concentration dependent activity in the α-glucosidase inhibition assay. All four derivatives exhibited ≥30% inhibition in the aldose reductase inhibition assay, except TZDD1 at 10 µg/mL. Interestingly, TZDD3 showed a decreasing inhibition activity. In the dipeptidyl peptidase–4 inhibition assay, TZDD2 and TZDD4 exhibited ≥20% inhibition activity.