bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovations in Forest Bioeconomy: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Jankovský Martin , García-Jácome Sandra P. , Dvořák Jiří , Nyarko Isaac , Hájek Miroslav
Published: October 2021

Innovations are a key component of the forest bioeconomy. Many types of innovations are needed for an efficient forest bioeconomy to be deployed. This article aimed to analyze the scientific literature on the topic of innovations in the forest bioeconomy, to understand where we are and where we are likely to be in the future, considering technologies, business models, etc. First, the scientific literature, in the form of peer-reviewed articles indexed in the Web of Science, was compiled in a comprehensive dataset, on which we analyzed the most important authors, their affiliations, regions they come from, journals where papers were most commonly published, and under which categories the papers were indexed. The total number of papers matching the keywords was 161. We found that the number of papers published on the topic is increasing and that, on average, each paper was cited 18 times. A total of 504 authors dealt with the topic, presenting a rather small community. This finding was reinforced by the outcomes of the analysis of regions where the authors of the papers were affiliated—Europe being the region to which most papers were affiliated. We conducted a qualitative synthesis of the literature on forest bioeconomy innovations. We found that authors dealt with the necessary adaptation of policies, while innovations were mainly focused on biorefining, biotechnology, production of various biomaterials, as well as innovations of business models and stakeholder interactions.
Live Crown Ratio Models for Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda) with Beta Regression
Authors: Poudel Krishna P. , Avery Samantha C. , Granger Joshua J.
Published: October 2021

The growth and production potential of a tree depends on its crown dimensions as these are closely related to a tree’s photosynthetic capacity. However, tree crowns have been studied less compared to their main stems because of their lower market value and because the measurement of crown dimensions, such as crown volume or surface area, is difficult. Frequently, an individual tree’s live crown ratio (LCR) is predicted by linear or nonlinear models that are a function of easy-to-measure dendrometric variables using ordinary least-squares techniques. Using the long-term data from established genetic and spacing trials, we developed and evaluated the predictive performance of three nonlinear models and introduced a new generalized linear model for predicting LCR. The nonlinear models were fit using exponential, Weibull, and Richards functions. The generalized linear model was based on beta regression. This resulted in a slightly smaller error than the other models in predicting the LCR of loblolly pine trees used in this study. Crown ratio is measured in percentage unit and should be modeled using generalized linear models that assume a beta distribution for error terms.
The Contribution of Roots, Mycorrhizal Hyphae, and Soil Free-Living Microbes to Soil Respiration and Its Temperature Sensitivity in a Larch Forest
Authors: Makita Naoki , Fujimoto Roma , Tamura Azusa
Published: October 2021

Soil respiration plays a critical role in driving soil carbon (C) cycling in terrestrial forest ecosystems. However, evidence to demonstrate the response of roots, mycorrhizal hyphae, and soil free-living microbes of soil respiration and their temperature sensitivity (Q10) remains lacking. Here, we used a root exclusion method to assess the contribution and response of root respiration (Rroot), mycorrhizal respiration (Rmyc), and (soil organic matter) SOM respiration (Rsom) to soil temperature in a larch forest. During the growing period, the contributions of Rroot, Rmyc, and Rsom to soil respiration were 42%, 6%, and 52%, respectively. The respiration rates of all components increased exponentially with increasing temperature. Based on these constitutive respiration rates with soil temperature, the Q10 values for Rroot, Rmyc, and Rsom were 3.84, 5.18, and 1.86, respectively. The results showed that the response to temperature change was different among roots, mycorrhizal hyphae, and microbes in the soil, while the temperature sensitivity of autotrophic respiration was higher than that of heterotrophic respiration. Importantly, the Rmyc at this site was extremely sensitive to temperature, although its overall emission was small. Mycorrhizal associations were identified as the key drivers of soil respiration and temperature sensitivity. A good understanding of the different soil CO2 efflux components will provide useful information for determining soil C fluxes and predicting soil C dynamics under changing environments.
Numerical Analysis of Seismic Performances of Post-Fire Scoria Aggregate Concrete Beam-Column Joints
Authors: Cai Bin , Hu Wen-Li , Fu Feng
Published: October 2021

In order to analyze the post-fire seismic performances of scoria aggregate concrete (SAC) beam-column joints precisely and effectively, one finite element model (FEM) was developed to simulate the seismic behavior of SAC beam-column joints. The FEM consists of two sequential parts: firstly, the heat transfer analysis of the beam-column joints, and then the seismic analysis of the SAC joints by combining the temperature field distribution obtained from the heat transfer analysis with the mechanical properties of the SAC after fire, both of which were implemented in ABAQUS. In order to make the simulation results more accurate, spring elements were applied to simulate the bond–slip behavior with material degradation due to fire damage in the simulation of seismic analysis. Moreover, in order to validate the FEM, the seismic behavior of the natural aggregate concrete (NAC) beam-column joints after fire was simulated with the established FEM, and the simulation results were compared with the available test data. It is proved that the FEM we built was accurate and effective and provided efficient solutions for evaluating the seismic performance of post-fire beam-column joints so that the effects of various parameters, namely, fire time, longitudinal reinforcement ratio, and axial compression ratio on the seismic performance of SAC beam-column joints after fire were investigated in depth, which indicated the increase of axial compression ratio can improve the strength, initial stiffness, and energy dissipation capacity of SAC joints, while the increase of longitudinal reinforcement ratio can increase the strength and stiffness of SAC joints to a small extent, but too high reinforcement ratio will significantly weaken the energy dissipation capacity of SAC joints.
Numerical Exploration via Least Squares Estimation on Three Dimensional MHD Yield Exhibiting Nanofluid Model with Porous Stretching Boundaries
Authors: Zubair Tamour , Usman Muhammad , Nazir Umar , Kumam Poom , Sohail Muhammad
Published: October 2021

The numerical study of a three-dimensional magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) Casson nano-fluid with porous and stretchy boundaries is the focus of this paper. Radiation impacts are also supposed. A feasible similarity variable may convert a verbalized set of nonlinear “partial” differential equations (PDEs) into a system of nonlinear “ordinary” differential equations (ODEs). To investigate the solutions of the resulting dimensionless model, the least-square method is suggested and extended. Maple code is created for the expanded technique of determining model behaviour. Several simulations were run, and graphs were used to provide a thorough explanation of the important parameters on velocities, skin friction, local Nusselt number, and temperature. The comparison study attests that the suggested method is well-matched, trustworthy, and accurate for investigating the governing model’s answers. This method may be expanded to solve additional physical issues with complicated geometry.
Impact of ABCG2 Gene Polymorphism on the Predisposition to Psoriasis
Authors: Huang Yu-Huei , See Lai-Chu , Chang Ya-Ching , Chung Wen-Hung , Chang Lun-Ching , Yang Shun-Fa , Su Shih-Chi
Published: October 2021

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease which is caused by the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Evidence shows an association of psoriasis with co-morbidities including cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome and hyperuricemia. Genome-wide association studies have revealed that the ABCG2 gene encoding ATP-binding cassette G2 protein was associated with inflammation and higher serum urate concentrations. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the role of ABCG2 gene polymorphisms on the susceptibility to psoriasis. The genotype distribution of two ABCG2 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs2231142 and rs2231137, was examined in 410 psoriasis patients and 1,089 gender-matched non-psoriasis controls. We found that heterozygotes (GT) for rs2231142 was associated with a decreased risk of psoriasis (p = 0.001; adjusted OR = 0.532; 95% CI, 0.370–0.765) after adjusting for age, as compared with homozygotes for the major allele (GG). Subjects who carried at least one polymorphic allele (homozygote or heterozygote for the minor allele) were less susceptible to psoriasis (p = 0.002; adjusted OR = 0.594; 95% CI, 0.249–0.823) and bearing higher serum urate levels (p = 0.026) than those homozygous for the major allele. Our results indicated that the ABCG2 gene polymorphism was associated with the risk of psoriasis.
Influence of Historical Land-Use Change on Contemporary Channel Processes, Form, and Restoration
Authors: Miller Jerry R. , Grow David , Philyaw L. Scott
Published: October 2021

Big Harris Creek, North Carolina, possesses a geomorphic history similar to many drainages in the southern Appalachian piedmont, and was used herein as a representative example of the influence of European settlement on contemporary channel form and processes. The integrated use of historical, dendrogeomorphic, stratigraphic, and cartographic data shows that the conversion of land-cover from a mix of natural conditions and small farms to commercial cotton production in the late 1800s and early 1900s led to significant upland soil erosion, gully formation, and the deposition of legacy sediments on the valley floor. Aggradation was followed by catchment-wide channel incision in the mid-1900s in response to reforestation and the implementation of soil conservation measures. Collectively, the responses form an aggradational-degradational episode (ADE) that produced the geomorphic framework for the contemporary processes operating along the drainage network. Defined, characterized, and mapped process zones (stream reaches of similar form and process) show that the type, intensity, and evolutionary sequence of geomorphic responses varied within the catchment as a function of the position along the drainage network, the erosional resistance of the underlying bedrock, and the valley characteristics (particularly width). Understanding the spatially variable influences of the ADE on contemporary, reach-scale geomorphic processes provides valuable insights for restoration as it helps inform practitioners of the sensitivity and ways in which the reach is likely to respond to future disturbances, the potential impacts of processes on proposed manipulations intended to achieve the project’s restoration goals, and the potential risk(s) involved with channel reconstruction. The latter is strongly controlled by geotechnical differences between erosionally resistant precolonial deposits and easily eroded legacy sediments that locally form the channel banks following the ADE.
Enhancing the Engineering Properties of Subgrade Materials Using Processed Waste: A Review
Authors: Amakye Samuel Y. , Abbey Samuel J. , Booth Colin A. , Mahamadu Abdul-Majeed
Published: October 2021

Subgrade materials refer to the original ground underneath a road pavement, when these materials are made up of expansive soil it is referred to as expansive subgrade. Sometimes, these materials do not have sufficient capacity to support the weight of the road pavement and traffic load, which means they require some form of modification and re-engineering to enhance their load capacity. Chemical modification techniques using traditional stabilisers (such as cement and lime) have proved to be an effective means of subgrade stabilisation. However, high costs and environmental concerns associated with the use and production of these additives have highlighted the need for more sustainable and environmentally friendly substitutes. This study reviews the use of industrial by-products and other waste materials used for subgrade stabilisation, focusing on the sustainability of using processed wastes and how they alter the engineering properties of weak subgrade, compared to the use of cement and also reviews the availability of processed waste materials in quantities sufficient to meet the current demand for subgrade stabilisation. The findings illustrate that, processed waste is less expensive and has better sustainability credentials compared to cement. Moreover, processed wastes are available in sufficient quantities to meet existing demands for subgrade stabilisation. Therefore, it is recommended that the use of processed wastes should be promoted and utilised to improve and enhance the geotechnical properties of weak subgrade materials where possible.
Drought Monitoring over West Africa Based on an Ecohydrological Simulation (2003–2018)
Authors: Tsutsui Hiroyuki , Sawada Yohei , Onuma Katsuhiro , Ito Hiroyuki , Koike Toshio
Published: October 2021

In Africa, droughts are causing significant damage to human health and the economy. In West Africa, a severe decline in food production due to agricultural droughts has been reported in recent years. In this study, we simulated ecohydrological variables using the Coupled Land and Vegetation Data Assimilation System, which can effectively evaluate the hydrological water cycle and provide a dynamic evaluation of terrestrial biomass. Using ecohydrological variables (e.g., soil moisture content, leaf area index and vegetation water content) as a drought indicator, we analyzed agricultural droughts in the Sahel-inland region of West Africa during 2003–2018. Results revealed reasonable agreement between the simulated values and the pearl millet yield, and produced a successful quantification of severe droughts in the Sahel-inland region.
SARS–CoV–2 and Food—How Confident Are We about Them?
Authors: Economou Vangelis , Sakkas Hercules , Bezirtzoglou Eugenia , Papa Anna , Soultos Nikolaos
Published: October 2021

The recent COVID-19 pandemic and coronaviruses have been thrust into the lives of humans around the globe. Several concerns of the scientific community, authorities and common people have been aroused concerning the prophylaxis measures that need to be taken in order to safeguard public health. Among others, the possibility of a faecal—oral route, and consequent waterborne or foodborne transmission, have been given little attention. Ground zero was the seafood market of Huanan in Wuhan, China; therefore, it was quite logical at the time to assume a certain degree of relationship between water, seafood and SARS–CoV–2. In this manuscript, a critical review of the current literature concerning these routes of transmission is made. The main questions discussed are whether (i) SARS–CoV–2 can infect food animals, (ii) it can be detected in water, retaining its infectivity for the necessary amount of time, (iii) there is a possibility of contamination of food by SARS–CoV–2 through its various production processes and (iv) there is evidence of foodborne or waterborne transmission.
Side Effects Following Administration of the First Dose of Oxford-AstraZeneca’s Covishield Vaccine in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jahan Nishat , Rahman Fahad Imtiaz , Saha Poushali , Ether Sadia Afruz , Roknuzzaman ASM , Sarker Rapty , Kalam Khondoker Tashya , Haq Kashfa , Nyeen Julkar , Himi Humayra Zaman , Hossain Md. Nazmul , Chowdhury Mahtab Hossain , Uddin Mostafa Moin , Alam Nur Haque
Published: October 2021

In response to the raging COVID-19 pandemic, Bangladesh started its vaccine administration in early 2021; however, due to the rapid development and launch of the vaccines in the market, many people had concerns regarding the safety of these vaccines. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the side effects that were experienced by the Bangladeshi residents after receiving the first dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca’s Covishield vaccine (ChAdOx1nCoV-19). The study was conducted using both online and printed questionnaires and the data were analysed using SPSS. The results included the responses of 474 vaccine recipients from March–April 2021. Pain at the site of injection, fever, myalgia, fatigue and headache were the most commonly reported symptoms, and the overall side effects were found to be significantly more prevalent in the younger population (p ≤ 0.05). These findings were consistent with the results indicated by the clinical trial of ChAdOx1nCoV-19. Logistic regression analysis further revealed that compared to people aged 70 years or above, the incidence of reported side effects was significantly higher in people aged 18–30 years (odds ratio (OR) = 8.56), 31–40 years, (OR = 5.05), 41–50 years (OR = 4.08), 51–60 years (OR = 3.77) and 61–70 years (OR = 3.67). In addition, a significantly higher percentage of female participants suffered from post-vaccination side effects compared to males (OR = 1.51). It was concluded that the Covishield vaccine was well-tolerated among people of different age groups. Nevertheless, further long-term follow-up study with a larger sample size is warranted to establish the long-term safety of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Project Earthrise: Proceedings of the Ninth Annual Conference of inVIVO Planetary Health
Authors: Prescott Susan L. , Wegienka Ganesa , Kort Remco , Nelson David H. , Gabrysch Sabine , Hancock Trevor , Kozyrskyj Anita , Lowry Christopher A. , Redvers Nicole , Poland Blake , Robinson Jake , Moubarac Jean-Claude , Warber Sara , Jansson Janet , Sinkkonen Aki , Penders John , Erdman Susan , Nanan Ralph , van den Bosch Matilda , Schneider Kirk , Schroeck Nicholas J. , Sobko Tanja , Harvie Jamie , Kaplan George A. , Moodie Rob , Lengnick Laura , Prilleltensky Isaac , Celidwen Yuria , Berman Susan H. , Logan Alan C. , Berman Brian
Published: October 2021

The “Earthrise” photograph, taken on the 1968 Apollo 8 mission, became one of the most significant images of the 20th Century. It triggered a profound shift in environmental awareness and the potential for human unity—inspiring the first Earth Day in 1970. Taking inspiration from these events 50 years later, we initiated Project Earthrise at our 2020 annual conference of inVIVO Planetary Health. This builds on the emergent concept of planetary health, which provides a shared narrative to integrate rich and diverse approaches from all aspects of society towards shared solutions to global challenges. The acute catastrophe of the COVID-19 pandemic has drawn greater attention to many other interconnected global health, environmental, social, spiritual, and economic problems that have been underappreciated or neglected for decades. This is accelerating opportunities for greater collaborative action, as many groups now focus on the necessity of a “Great Transition”. While ambitious integrative efforts have never been more important, it is imperative to apply these with mutualistic value systems as a compass, as we seek to make wiser choices. Project Earthrise is our contribution to this important process. This underscores the imperative for creative ecological solutions to challenges in all systems, on all scales with advancing global urbanization in the digital age—for personal, environmental, economic and societal health alike. At the same time, our agenda seeks to equally consider our social and spiritual ecology as it does natural ecology. Revisiting the inspiration of “Earthrise”, we welcome diverse perspectives from across all dimensions of the arts and the sciences, to explore novel solutions and new normative values. Building on academic rigor, we seek to place greater value on imagination, kindness and mutualism as we address our greatest challenges, for the health of people, places and planet.
Vascular Ageing and Aerobic Exercise
Authors: Kozakova Michaela , Palombo Carlo
Published: October 2021

Impairment of vascular function, in particular endothelial dysfunction and large elastic artery stiffening, represents a major link between ageing and cardiovascular risk. Clinical and experimental studies identified numerous mechanisms responsible for age-related decline of endothelial function and arterial compliance. Since most of these mechanisms are related to oxidative stress or low-grade inflammation, strategies that suppress oxidative stress and inflammation could be effective for preventing age-related changes in arterial function. Indeed, aerobic physical activity, which has been shown to improve intracellular redox balance and mitochondrial health and reduce levels of systemic inflammatory markers, also improves endothelial function and arterial distensibility and reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases. The present paper provides a brief overview of processes underlying age-related changes in arterial function, as well as the mechanisms through which aerobic exercise might prevent or interrupt these processes, and thus attenuate vascular ageing.
Comprehensive Assessment of Triggers for Behaviours of Concern Scale (CATS): Initial Development
Authors: Limbu Bharati , Unwin Gemma , Deb Shoumitro (Shoumi)
Published: October 2021

Challenging behaviour displayed by people with intellectual disabilities (ID) can be difficult to manage if caregivers do not understand the reasons for the behaviour. Identifying the contextual variables/triggers for the behaviour is likely to help undertake a functional analysis leading to a person-centred positive behaviour support plan. Currently, a limited number of checklists are available for trigger assessment and none were developed using an interview with the family caregivers. This article describes the development and contents of the comprehensive assessment of triggers for behaviours of concern scale (CATS). CATS was developed in two stages. Stage 1 used a ‘bottom-up’ approach, in which caregivers of adults with ID who show aggressive behaviour were interviewed to identify the triggers for aggression. In stage two, using a ‘top-down’ approach, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather items from existing trigger checklists. Trigger items from both stages were combined and the duplicates were removed. The final list in CATS consists of 333 contextual triggers categorised under five main domains and 12 subdomains. CATS can be used by caregivers to identify triggers or antecedents of challenging behaviour. Further work is needed to test its psychometric properties, utility, and acceptability.
Emotional Dysregulation in Preschoolers with Autism Spectrum Disorder—A Sample of Romanian Children
Authors: Costescu Cristina , Șogor Mălina , Thill Serge , Roșan Adrian
Published: October 2021

Emotional dysregulation problems seem to affect more than 80% of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and may include irritability, aggressive behaviors, self-injury, and anxiety. Even though these types of problems are very common and affect the well-being of individuals with ASD, there are no objective assessment tools developed for this population and there are only a few intervention techniques meant to address these symptoms. This study investigates the feasibility of using off-the-shelf wearable devices to accurately measure heart rate, which has been associated with emotional dysregulation, and to test the effectiveness of functional communication training in reducing the emotional outburst in preschoolers with ASD. We used a single-case experiment design with three preschoolers with ASD to test if the duration of the emotional outburst and the elevated heart rate levels can be reduced by using functional communication training. Our results show that for two of the participants, the intervention was effective in reducing the duration of behaviors associated with emotional outburst, and that there were significant differences between baseline and intervention phase in terms of heart rate levels. However, our results are inconclusive regarding the association between elevated heart rates and the occurrence of the emotional outburst. Nevertheless, more research is needed to investigate the use of off-the-shelf wearable devices in predicting challenging behaviors in children with ASD.
Exploring People’s Reaction and Perceived Issues of the COVID-19 Pandemic at Its Onset
Authors: Heanoy Eamin Z. , Nadler Ezra H. , Lorrain Dominic , Brown Norman R.
Published: October 2021

The experience of the COVID-19 Pandemic has varied considerably from individual-to-individual. Little is known about the changes in the level of experience general people went through during the first few months after the coronavirus (COVID-19) was declared as a Pandemic. This longitudinal qualitative study explores the general public’s reports of their experience with the COVID-19 Pandemic during its early stage. An online survey was conducted using a convenience/snowball sampling technique in March and again in May 2020, where North American adults with at least a college-degree, and female majority, shared their experiences with the COVID-19 Pandemic in response to an open-ended question, apart from completing questionnaires assessing transitional impact and psychological well-being. Open responses were first content analyzed to identify themes most commonly reported, and then, the quantitative analysis examined the reliability of the changes of themes between the two-time points. Text-analysis of the open-responses from the two waves identified seven themes, namely emotional response, social contact, virus-infected, financial impact, impact on plans, disease, and non-disease related concern, as well as social-distance. These themes indicated that, (a) people were distressed and having negative affective thoughts; (b) they spoke more about their plans-and-goals that were affected by the Pandemic than their financial condition; (c) people mostly used digital platforms to maintain contact with their social network, although they preferred face-to-face interactions; (d) they spoke more about the infection experienced by people in general than infection experienced by themselves and individuals they know. Surprisingly, (e) people mentioned more about the way the Pandemic had disrupted their day-to-day activities than the disease-related health concern. Finally, (f) most of the respondents approved of the practice of social distancing while some expressed its negative or neutral effect on their social lives. The quantitative measure determined that as time passed, people’s experience with the Pandemic became quite different as people talked more about getting infected, and their affected goals-and-plans. We concluded with a remark that this Pandemic would most likely leave an impression on people’s lives and that these online comment-style responses might provide us with insights into people’s perspectives as the Pandemic unfolds, helping us in understanding the uniqueness of the Pandemic experience of individuals for an effective tailored intervention to protect their well-being during a health-crisis.
Bioprinting Technology in Skin, Heart, Pancreas and Cartilage Tissues: Progress and Challenges in Clinical Practice
Authors: Di Piazza Eleonora , Pandolfi Elisabetta , Cacciotti Ilaria , Del Fattore Andrea , Tozzi Alberto Eugenio , Secinaro Aurelio , Borro Luca
Published: October 2021

Bioprinting is an emerging additive manufacturing technique which shows an outstanding potential for shaping customized functional substitutes for tissue engineering. Its introduction into the clinical space in order to replace injured organs could ideally overcome the limitations faced with allografts. Presently, even though there have been years of prolific research in the field, there is a wide gap to bridge in order to bring bioprinting from “bench to bedside”. This is due to the fact that bioprinted designs have not yet reached the complexity required for clinical use, nor have clear GMP (good manufacturing practices) rules or precise regulatory guidelines been established. This review provides an overview of some of the most recent and remarkable achievements for skin, heart, pancreas and cartilage bioprinting breakthroughs while highlighting the critical shortcomings for each tissue type which is keeping this technique from becoming widespread reality.
Mortality and Alcohol as Its Cause—Comparative Characteristics of the Two Neighboring Countries: Ukraine and Poland
Authors: Lyubinets Oleh , Kachmarska Marta , Sygit Katarzyna Maria , Cipora Elżbieta , Grshybowskyj Jaroslaw
Published: October 2021

This paper presents a comparative assessment of mortality in Poland and Ukraine, including due to alcohol consumption, by sex, place of residence, and age groups. Mortality from alcohol consumption is and remains one of the health problems of the state’s population. The aim of this study was to establish the difference in mortality, including due to alcohol consumption, in the two neighboring countries. The analysis was conducted in 2008 and 2018 according to statistical institutions in Poland and Ukraine. Data from the codes of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases of the 10th edition: F10, G31.2, G62.1, I42.6, K70, K86.0, and X45 were used to calculate mortality due to alcohol consumption. The share of mortality caused by alcohol consumption in Ukraine in 2008 was 3.52%, and 1.83% in 2018. At the same time, in Poland, there is an increase in this cause of death from 1.72% to 2.36%. Mortality caused by alcohol consumption is the main share of mortality in the section “Mental and behavioral disorders” in both Ukraine, at 73–74%, and Poland, at 82–92%. Changes in the mortality rate in the cities and villages of Ukraine and Poland showed different trends: Poland nated, a significant increase in mortality, while in Ukraine it has halved on average. Overall and alcohol mortality rates in both countries were higher among the male population. The analysis of mortality among people of working age showed that the highest proportion of deaths from alcohol consumption in both countries was among people aged 25–44. Despite the geographical proximity, and similarity of natural and climatic characteristics and population, mortality rates in each country reflect the difference in the medical and demographic situation, and the effectiveness of state social approaches to public health.
Marine Debris in the Beilun Estuary Mangrove Forest: Monitoring, Assessment and Implications
Authors: Li Dongmei , Zhao Li , Guo Zhiming , Yang Xi , Deng Wei , Zhong Haoxiang , Zhou Peng
Published: October 2021

A modified approach for marine debris investigation in mangrove forests is developed, including some practical programs, viz., sampling location, time, area, materials, size and sources data processing. The marine debris method was practiced in the Beilun Estuary mangrove forest region in Fangchenggang in 2019, viz., the debris items were classified, counted, weighed and recorded, and the marine debris pollution was assessed to understand the impact of human activities. The results show that the mass density is 21.123 (2.355~51.760) g/m2, and more than 90% came from the land-based and human activities. More than 60% of the total debris weights are plastics, followed by fabrics (17.91%) and Styrofoam (10.07%); the big-size and oversize debris account for 76.41% and 13.33%, respectively. The quantity density is 0.163 (0.013~0.420) item/m2, and ~95% came from land-based human activities. More than 75% of the total debris items were plastics, followed by Styrofoam (14.36%), fabrics (4.10%) and glass (3.59%); the big-size, medium-size and oversize debris are 76.41%, 13.33% and 10.26%, respectively. The results suggest that mangrove forests are barriers for the medium-/big-size marine debris, acting as traps for marine debris. Our study provides recommendations and practical guidance for establishing programs to monitor and assess the distribution and abundance of marine debris. The results show that mangrove areas in the Beilun Estuary are filled with some plastic debris (plastics plus Styrofoam) and that the density and type at Zhushan and Rongshutou near the China-Vietnam border are more than those at Shijiao and Jiaodong. The results of this study are also expected to not only provide baseline data for the future assessment of Beilun Estuary mangroves but also to help China and Vietnam strengthen marine land-based pollution control and promote coastal wetland and mangrove conservation, marine species conservation and sustainable use.
Comparison of the Mental Health Impact of COVID-19 on Vulnerable and Non-Vulnerable Groups: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Nam Soo-Hyun , Nam Jeong-Hyun , Kwon Chan-Young
Published: October 2021

Vulnerable populations may be more vulnerable to mental health problems posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A systematic review was performed to compare the mental health impact of COVID-19 between vulnerable and non-vulnerable groups. Five electronic databases were searched for observational studies reporting the psychological outcomes of both vulnerable populations and healthy controls during the COVID-19 era. The primary outcomes are the severity of depression and anxiety, and secondary outcomes include other aspects of mental health such as stress or sleep disturbance. Meta-analysis was performed for the severity of mental health symptoms, and the results were presented as standardized mean difference and 95% confidence intervals. A total of 25 studies were included. According to the findings, the elderly generally experienced significantly lower levels of psychological symptoms including depression, anxiety, and perceived stress. Pregnant women, patients with chronic diseases, and patients with pre-existing severe mental disorders showed mixed results according to each mental health outcome. The results indicate that vulnerable groups have been affected differently in the COVID-19 era. Though the insufficient number and heterogeneity of included studies leave the results inconclusive, our findings may contribute to identifying priorities of mental health needs among various vulnerable populations and allocating health resources with efficiency.
Prevalence of Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Infection in the General Population of the Veneto Region: Results of a Screening Campaign with Third-Generation Rapid Antigen Tests in the Pre-Vaccine Era
Authors: Cocchio Silvia , Nicoletti Michele , De Siena Francesco Paolo , Lattavo Gaia , Furlan Patrizia , Fonzo Marco , Tonon Michele , Zabeo Federico , Russo Francesca , Baldo Vincenzo
Published: October 2021

The aim of our study was to ascertain the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the general population during a period of moderate risk, just before Italy started to implement its vaccination campaign. A third-generation antigenic nasal swab sample was collected by a healthcare provider, and all individuals testing positive subsequently had a nasopharyngeal swab for molecular testing; the result was used to calculate the positive predictive value. The population consisted of 4467 asymptomatic adults with a mean age of 46.8 ± 16.00 years. The 62.2% tested for the first time, while 37.8% had previously undergone a mean 2.2 tests for SARS-CoV-2. With 77 of our overall sample reporting they had previously tested positive for COVID-19 and 14 found positive on our screening test, the overall estimated prevalence of the infection was 0.31%. Nine of the 14 cases were confirmed on molecular testing with a PPV of 64.3%. The mean age of the individuals testing positive was 38.1 ± 17.4. Based on the timing of symptom onset, six of the above cases were classified as false negatives, and the adjusted estimated prevalence was 0.34%. Describing levels of infection in a general population seems to be very difficult to achieve, and the universal screening proved hugely expensive particularly in a low-prevalence situation. Anyway, it is only thanks to mass screening efforts that epidemiological data have been collected. This would support the idea that routine screening may have an impact on mitigating the spread of the virus in higher-risk environments, where people come into contact more frequently, as in the workplace.
Healthcare Voucher Scheme for Screening of Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Huang Junjie , Ngai Chun-Ho , Tin Man-Sing , Sun Qingjie , Tin Pamela , Yeoh Eng-Kiong , Wong Martin C. S.
Published: October 2021

The present study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with unwillingness to join a healthcare voucher scheme for screening of cardiovascular risk factors in a Chinese population. We conducted a telephone survey by random selection of 1200 subjects who were aged 45 years or above in Hong Kong. We collected data on their attitude, perception, and perceived feasibility of a healthcare voucher scheme. The overall rates of having received at least one type, two types, and all three types of screening tests are 81.1%, 80.7%, and 79.3%, respectively. Younger individuals (aOR = 0.338, p = 0.004), those of a higher educational level (aOR = 1.825, p = 0.006), being employed (aOR = 3.030, p = 0.037), and lower perception of screening as beneficial (aOR = 0.495, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with no regular screening for at least one medical condition. The overall rate of willingness to join the voucher scheme (among those aged ≥ 45) is 83.7%. Male sex (aOR = 2.049, p = 0.010) and absence of family history of cardiovascular disease (aOR = 0.362, p = 0.002) are independent predictors of unwillingness to join. Our findings highlighted the significance of sex and family history on screening of cardiovascular factors. These constructs and independent predictors identified provide evidence-based formulation and implementation targeted screening strategies that enhance the screening rate of the three cardiovascular risk factors.
Associations between Temperature and Influenza Activity: A National Time Series Study in China
Authors: Chen Can , Zhang Xiaobao , Jiang Daixi , Yan Danying , Guan Zhou , Zhou Yuqing , Liu Xiaoxiao , Huang Chenyang , Ding Cheng , Lan Lei , Huang Xihui , Li Lanjuan , Yang Shigui
Published: October 2021

Previous studies have reported that temperature is the main meteorological factor associated with influenza activity. This study used generalized additive models (GAMs) to explore the relationship between temperature and influenza activity in China. From the national perspective, the average temperature (AT) had an approximately negative linear correlation with the incidence of influenza, as well as a positive rate of influenza H1N1 virus (A/H1N1). Every degree that the monthly AT rose, the influenza cases decreased by 2.49% (95%CI: 1.24%–3.72%). The risk of influenza cases reached a peak at −5.35 °C with RRs of 2.14 (95%CI: 1.38–3.33) and the monthly AT in the range of −5.35 °C to 18.31 °C had significant effects on the incidence of influenza. Every degree that the weekly AT rose, the positive rate of A/H1N1 decreased by 5.28% (95%CI: 0.35%–9.96%). The risk of A/H1N1 reached a peak at −3.14 °C with RRs of 4.88 (95%CI: 1.01–23.75) and the weekly AT in the range of −3.14 °C to 17.25 °C had significant effects on the incidence of influenza. Our study found that AT is negatively associated with influenza activity, especially for A/H1N1. These findings indicate that temperature could be integrated into the current influenza surveillance system to develop early warning systems to better predict and prepare for the risks of influenza.
PPAR-Gamma Activation May Inhibit the In Vivo Degeneration of Bioprosthetic Aortic and Aortic Valve Grafts under Diabetic Conditions
Authors: Katahira Shintaro , Sugimura Yukiharu , Grupp Sophia , Doepp Robin , Selig Jessica Isabel , Barth Mareike , Lichtenberg Artur , Akhyari Payam
Published: October 2021

Background: We aimed to examine the anti-calcification and anti-inflammatory effects of pioglitazone as a PPAR-gamma agonist on bioprosthetic-valve-bearing aortic grafts in a rat model of diabetes mellitus (DM). Methods: DM was induced in male Wistar rats by high-fat diet with an intraperitoneal streptozotocin (STZ) injection. The experimental group received additional pioglitazone, and controls received normal chow without STZ (n = 20 each group). Cryopreserved aortic donor grafts including the aortic valve were analyzed after 4 weeks and 12 weeks in vivo for analysis of calcific bioprosthetic degeneration. Results: DM led to a significant media proliferation at 4 weeks. The additional administration of pioglitazone significantly increased circulating adiponectin levels and significantly reduced media thickness at 4 and 12 weeks, respectively (p = 0.0002 and p = 0.0107, respectively). Graft media calcification was highly significantly inhibited by pioglitazone after 12 weeks (p = 0.0079). Gene-expression analysis revealed a significant reduction in relevant chondro-osteogenic markers osteopontin and RUNX-2 by pioglitazone at 4 weeks. Conclusions: Under diabetic conditions, pioglitazone leads to elevated circulating levels of adiponectin and to an inhibition of bioprosthetic graft degeneration, including lower expression of chondro-osteogenic genes, decreased media proliferation, and inhibited graft calcification in a small-animal model of DM.
Photophysical Properties of BADAN Revealed in the Study of GGBP Structural Transitions
Authors: Fonin Alexander V. , Silonov Sergey A. , Antifeeva Iuliia A. , Stepanenko Olga V. , Stepanenko Olesya V. , Fefilova Anna S. , Povarova Olga I. , Gavrilova Anastasia A. , Kuznetsova Irina M. , Turoverov Konstantin K.
Published: October 2021

The fluorescent dye BADAN (6-bromoacetyl-2-dimetylaminonaphtalene) is widely used in various fields of life sciences, however, the photophysical properties of BADAN are not fully understood. The study of the spectral properties of BADAN attached to a number of mutant forms of GGBP, as well as changes in its spectral characteristics during structural changes in proteins, allowed to shed light on the photophysical properties of BADAN. It was shown that spectral properties of BADAN are determined by at least one non-fluorescent and two fluorescent isomers with overlapping absorbing bands. It was found that BADAN fluorescence is determined by the unsolvated “PICT” (planar intramolecular charge transfer state) and solvated “TICT” (twisted intramolecular charge transfer state) excited states. While “TICT” state can be formed both as a result of the “PICT” state solvation and as a result of light absorption by the solvated ground state of the dye. BADAN fluorescence linked to GGBP/H152C apoform is quenched by Trp 183, but this effect is inhibited by glucose intercalation. New details of the changes in the spectral characteristics of BADAN during the unfolding of the protein apo and holoforms have been obtained.
Precise Characterization of Genetic Interactions in Cancer via Molecular Network Refining Processes
Authors: Jung Jinmyung , Hwang Yongdeuk , Ahn Hongryul , Lee Sunjae , Yoo Sunyong
Published: October 2021

Genetic interactions (GIs), such as the synthetic lethal interaction, are promising therapeutic targets in precision medicine. However, despite extensive efforts to characterize GIs by large-scale perturbation screening, considerable false positives have been reported in multiple studies. We propose a new computational approach for improved precision in GI identification by applying constraints that consider actual biological phenomena. In this study, GIs were characterized by assessing mutation, loss of function, and expression profiles in the DEPMAP database. The expression profiles were used to exclude loss-of-function data for nonexpressed genes in GI characterization. More importantly, the characterized GIs were refined based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) or protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks, under the assumption that genes genetically interacting with a certain mutated gene are adjacent in the networks. As a result, the initial GIs characterized with CRISPR and RNAi screenings were refined to 65 and 23 GIs based on KEGG networks and to 183 and 142 GIs based on PPI networks. The evaluation of refined GIs showed improved precision with respect to known synthetic lethal interactions. The refining process also yielded a synthetic partner network (SPN) for each mutated gene, which provides insight into therapeutic strategies for the mutated genes; specifically, exploring the SPN of mutated BRAF revealed ELAVL1 as a potential target for treating BRAF-mutated cancer, as validated by previous research. We expect that this work will advance cancer therapeutic research.
BSA Hydrogel Beads Functionalized with a Specific Aptamer Library for Capturing Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Serum and Blood
Authors: Krämer Markus , Kissmann Ann-Kathrin , Raber Heinz Fabian , Xing Hu , Favella Patrizia , Müller Ingrid , Spellerberg Barbara , Weil Tanja , Kubiczek Dennis , Sihler Susanne , Ziener Ulrich , Rosenau Frank
Published: October 2021

Systemic blood stream infections are a major threat to human health and are dramatically increasing worldwide. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a WHO-alerted multi-resistant pathogen of extreme importance as a cause of sepsis. Septicemia patients have significantly increased survival chances if sepsis is diagnosed in the early stages. Affinity materials can not only represent attractive tools for specific diagnostics of pathogens in the blood but can prospectively also serve as the technical foundation of therapeutic filtration devices. Based on the recently developed aptamers directed against P. aeruginosa, we here present aptamer-functionalized beads for specific binding of this pathogen in blood samples. These aptamer capture beads (ACBs) are manufactured by crosslinking bovine serum albumin (BSA) in an emulsion and subsequent functionalization with the amino-modified aptamers on the bead surface using the thiol- and amino-reactive bispecific crosslinker PEG4-SPDP. Specific and quantitative binding of P. aeruginosa as the dedicated target of the ACBs was demonstrated in serum and blood. These initial but promising results may open new routes for the development of ACBs as a platform technology for fast and reliable diagnosis of bloodstream infections and, in the long term, blood filtration techniques in the fight against sepsis.
Comparison of Bone Regeneration in Different Forms of Bovine Bone Scaffolds with Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2
Authors: Seok Hyun , Kim Hee-Youl , Kang Dong-Cheol , Park Jung-Ho , Park Jong Hoon
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to compare the bone regeneration ability of particle and block bones, acting as bone scaffolds, with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP)-2 and evaluate them as rhBMP-2 carriers. Demineralized bovine bone particles, blocks, and rhBMP-2 were grafted into the subperiosteal space of a rat calvarial bone, and the rats were randomly divided into four groups: particle, block, P (particle)+BMP, and B (block)+BMP groups. The bone volume of the B+BMP group was significantly higher than that of the other groups (p < 0.00), with no significant difference in bone mineral density. The average adipose tissue volume of the B+BMP group was higher than that of the P+BMP group, although the difference was not significant. Adipose tissue formation was observed in the rhBMP-2 application group. Histologically, the particle and B+BMP groups showed higher formation of a new bone. However, adipose tissue and void spaces were also formed, especially in the B+BMP group. Hence, despite the formation of a large central void space, rhBMP-2 could be effectively used with block bone scaffolds and showed excellent new bone formation. Further studies are required to evaluate the changes in adipose tissue.