bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomonitoring–Health Risk Nexus of Potentially Toxic Metals on Cerithidea obtusa: A Biomonitoring Study from Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Yap Chee Kong , Al-Mutairi Khalid Awadh
Published: April 2023

The present study aimed to assess the human health risks of six potentially toxic metals (PTMs) (Cd, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb and Zn) in 21 populations of popular mangrove snails, Cerithidea obtusa, collected from Malaysia. In general, the concentrations (mg/kg wet weight) of Cd (0.03–2.32), Cu (11.4–35.2), Fe (40.9–759), Ni (0.40–6.14), Pb (0.90–13.4) and Zn (3.11–129) found in the snails in all populations were lower than the prescribed maximum permissible limits (MPL)s for Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn. However, in the investigated snail populations, Cd (14%), Pb (62%), Cu (19%), and Zn (10%) were found in exceedance of the MPL of the respective metal. The target hazard quotient (THQ) values in all populations for Cu, Ni, Fe and Zn were all found to be below 1.00. However, for the THQ values of Cd and Pb, two populations exceeded 1.00, while others were below the threshold level. The estimated weekly intake (EWI) of all six metals for all populations was only 0.03–4.65% of the provisional tolerable weekly intake. This conclusively indicates that, based on the EWI, there are no health risks of the six PTMs in the consumption of snails from Malaysia since the assessments are dependent on the consumers’ body weight and consumption rate. Nonetheless, the present results indicate that the amounts of snails consumed should be limited to minimize the potential health risks of PTMs to consumers. The relatively low and weak but positive correlations of Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn between C. obtusa and their habitat sediments indicate that C. obtusa can be a potential biomonitor for Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn. This is important for effective mangrove management from the perspective of the sustainable resources from the intertidal mangrove environment. Hence, the biomonitoring–health risk nexus of PTMs in mangrove snails is proposed in the present study.
Physical Treatments to Control Clostridium botulinum Hazards in Food
Authors: Munir Muhammad Tanveer , Mtimet Narjes , Guillier Laurent , Meurens François , Fravalo Phillipe , Federighi Michel , Kooh Pauline
Published: April 2023

Clostridium botulinum produces Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), causing a rare but potentially deadly type of food poisoning called foodborne botulism. This review aims to provide information on the bacterium, spores, toxins, and botulisms, and describe the use of physical treatments (e.g., heating, pressure, irradiation, and other emerging technologies) to control this biological hazard in food. As the spores of this bacterium can resist various harsh environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, the thermal inactivation of 12-log of C. botulinum type A spores remains the standard for the commercial sterilization of food products. However, recent advancements in non-thermal physical treatments present an alternative to thermal sterilization with some limitations. Low- (<2 kGy) and medium (3–5 kGy)-dose ionizing irradiations are effective for a log reduction of vegetative cells and spores, respectively; however, very high doses (>10 kGy) are required to inactivate BoNTs. High-pressure processing (HPP), even at 1.5 GPa, does not inactivate the spores and requires heat combination to achieve its goal. Other emerging technologies have also shown some promise against vegetative cells and spores; however, their application to C. botulinum is very limited. Various factors related to bacteria (e.g., vegetative stage, growth conditions, injury status, type of bacteria, etc.) food matrix (e.g., compositions, state, pH, temperature, aw, etc.), and the method (e.g., power, energy, frequency, distance from the source to target, etc.) influence the efficacy of these treatments against C. botulinum. Moreover, the mode of action of different physical technologies is different, which provides an opportunity to combine different physical treatment methods in order to achieve additive and/or synergistic effects. This review is intended to guide the decision-makers, researchers, and educators in using physical treatments to control C. botulinum hazards.
Optimization of the Black Garlic Processing Method and Development of Black Garlic Jam Using High-Pressure Processing
Authors: Chang Wen-Chang , Lin Wen-Chun , Wu She-Ching
Published: April 2023

Black garlic has many beneficial effects, and it has a less spicy flavor. However, its aging conditions and related products still need to be further investigated. The present study aims to analyze the beneficial effects under different processing conditions and utilize high-pressure processing (HPP) in the production of black garlic jam. The highest antioxidant activities, including the DPPH scavenging, total antioxidant capacity, and reducing power (86.23%, 88.44%, and A700 = 2.48, respectively), were observed in black garlic that had been aged for 30 days. Similarly, the highest total phenols and flavonoids were observed in black garlic that had been aged for 30 days (76.86 GAE/g dw and 13.28 mg RE/g dw, respectively). The reducing sugar in black garlic was significantly increased to about 380 (mg GE/g dw) after 20 days of aging. The free amino acids in black garlic were decreased time-dependently to about 0.2 mg leucine/g dw after 30 days of aging. For the browning indexes of black garlic, the uncolored intermediate and browning products were increased in a time-dependent manner and reached a plateau at day 30. Another intermediate product in the Maillard reaction, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), was observed in concentrations that increased to 1.81 and 3.04 (mg/g dw) at day 30 and 40, respectively. Furthermore, the black garlic jam made by HPP was analyzed for its texture and sensory acceptance, showing that a 1:1.5:2 ratio of black garlic/water/sugar was the most preferred and was classified as “still acceptable”. Our study suggests suitable processing conditions for black garlic and outlines the prominent beneficial effects after 30 days of aging. These results could be further applied in HPP jam production and increase the diversity of black garlic products.
Quality Characteristics of Sweet Potato Jelly Prepared Using the Enzymatic Saccharification Method
Authors: Lee Hye-Won , Jo Yeon-Jae , Jung Yun-Jo , Chung Mi-Nam , Lee Jun-Soo , Jeong Heon-Sang
Published: April 2023

In this study, jelly was prepared using saccharified sweet potatoes without sugar, and its quality characteristics were compared according to the sweet potato cultivar. Three sweet potato varieties, namely Juwhangmi (orange color), Sinjami (purple color), and Daeyumi (yellow flesh color), were used. The total free sugar and glucose contents of the hydrolysate were found to increase during the enzyme treatment. However, no differences in the moisture, total soluble solids, or textural properties were found among the sweet potato cultivars. Sinjami had high total polyphenol and flavonoid contents of 446.14 mg GAE/100 g and 243.59 mg CE/100 g, respectively, and it had the highest antioxidant activity among the cultivars. Based on the sensory evaluation, an overall preference appeared in the order of Daeyumi, Sinjami, and Juwhangmi cultivars. This result shows that jelly can be manufactured by saccharifying sweet potatoes, and it was confirmed that the characteristics of raw sweet potatoes had a great influence on the quality characteristics of the jelly. Further, the characteristics of raw sweet potatoes had a remarkable influence on the quality characteristics of the jelly.
Microbial Community Variations and Bioconversion Improvements during Soybean-Based Fermentation by Kefir Grains
Authors: Luo Jiaqi , Liu Siyu , Lu Hongyun , Chen Qihe , Shi Ying
Published: April 2023

Soybeans possess unexpected flavors and are difficult to be absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. Kefir grain fermentation provides diverse strains and bioactive compounds, which may enhance flavor and bioaccessibility. Third-generation sequencing was applied to analyze the microbial diversity in milk and soybean kefir grains in this study. In both types of kefir grains, the most common bacterial genus was Lactobacillus, and their fungal communities were dominated by Kazachstania. Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens was the most abundant species in kefir grains, while Lactobacillus kefiri showed a higher proportion in soybean kefir grains. In addition, the quantification of free amino acids and volatile flavor compounds in soybean solution and soybean kefir have shown the increased content of glutamic acid and a decreased amount of unpleasant beany flavor compounds, demonstrating that the nutritive value and sensory properties of soybean can be improved by kefir grain fermentation. Finally, the bioconversion of isoflavones during fermentation and in vitro digestion was evaluated, suggesting that fermentation is beneficial for aglycone formation and absorption. To conclude, kefir fermentation is proposed to change the microbial structure of kefir grains, promote the nutritional value of soybean-based fermented products, and provide possible solutions for the development of soybean products.
Effect of Buffalo Breed on the Detailed Milk Composition in Guangxi, China
Authors: Abdel-Hamid Mahmoud , Huang Li , Huang Zizhen , Romeih Ehab , Yang Pan , Zeng Qingkun , Li Ling
Published: April 2023

Buffalo is the second source of milk in the world, and its milk is rich in nutritive components. It is well-known that breed influences milk composition. This work aimed to compare the detailed milk composition of three buffalo breeds (Murrah, Nili-Ravi, and Mediterranean) housed under the same environmental conditions. Mediterranean buffalo milk showed a significantly higher content of fat, protein, and some fatty acids. Moreover, the milk from the Mediterranean breed was characterized by the highest content of sphingomyelin (SM), cholesterol, and lanosterol. However, the Murrah buffalo milk contained the highest amount of total unsaturated fatty acids, phosphatidylinositol, and whey proteins. Furthermore, the Nili-Ravi buffalo milk was characterized by the highest content of total saturated fatty acids, phosphatidylglycerol, squalene, lathosterol, stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, and casein fractions. Nevertheless, the lactose and amino acid profiles of the milk remained almost similar across the three buffalo breeds. The generated results in this study enable a comprehensive understanding of the milk constituent variability that is linked to buffalo breeds, which may support the acquirement of essential scientific knowledge on milk ingredient–processing interactions that will offer a foundation of knowledge for Chinese dairy processors in terms of milk processability and innovation.
Migration and Proliferation Dichotomy: A Persistent Random Walk of Cancer Cells
Authors: Al Shamsi Hamed
Published: April 2023

A non-Markovian model of tumor cell invasion with finite velocity is proposed to describe the proliferation and migration dichotomy of cancer cells. The model considers transitions with age-dependent switching rates between three states: moving tumor cells in the positive direction, moving tumor cells in the negative direction, and resting tumor cells. The first two states correspond to a migratory phenotype, while the third state represents a proliferative phenotype. Proliferation is modeled using a logistic growth equation. The transport of tumor cells is described by a persistent random walk with general residence time distributions. The nonlinear master equations describing the average densities of cancer cells for each of the three states are derived. The present work also includes the analysis of models involving power law distributed random time, highlighting the dominance of the Mittag–Leffler rest state, resulting in subdiffusive behavior.
Sub-Diffusion Two-Temperature Model and Accurate Numerical Scheme for Heat Conduction Induced by Ultrashort-Pulsed Laser Heating
Authors: Ji Cuicui , Dai Weizhong
Published: April 2023

In this study, we propose a new sub-diffusion two-temperature model and its accurate numerical method by introducing the Knudsen number (Kn) and two Caputo fractional derivatives (0<α,β<1) in time into the parabolic two-temperature model of the diffusive type. We prove that the obtained sub-diffusion two-temperature model is well posed. The numerical scheme is obtained based on the L1 approximation for the Caputo fractional derivatives and the second-order finite difference for the spatial derivatives. Using the discrete energy method, we prove the numerical scheme to be unconditionally stable and convergent with O(τmin{2−α,2−β}+h2), where τ,h are time and space steps, respectively. The accuracy and applicability of the present numerical scheme are tested in two examples. Results show that the numerical solutions are accurate, and the present model and its numerical scheme could be used as a tool by changing the values of the Knudsen number and fractional-order derivatives as well as the parameter in the boundary condition for analyzing the heat conduction in porous media, such as porous thin metal films exposed to ultrashort-pulsed lasers, where the energy transports in phonons and electrons may be ultraslow at different rates.
Bempedoic Acid and Statins in Lipid-Lowering Strategy: Which Came First, the Egg or the Chicken?
Authors: Natale Francesco , Molinari Riccardo , Franzese Rosa , Mollo Noemi , Cimmino Giovanni
Published: April 2023

The goal in cardiovascular prevention is the reduction of morbidity and mortality through the promotion of healthy lifestyles in the general population. The management of modifiable risk factors with pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, based on the individual risk is the first strategy suggested by the current guidelines. Several epidemiological studies have clearly shown the direct correlation between high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and incidence of cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, numerous randomized clinical studies have reported a huge benefit in terms of major cardiovascular events achievable by the reduction of LDL-C, thus supporting the notion that “the lower is better”. Among the lipid-lowering strategies, statins are the drugs of choice in cardiovascular prevention, at both primary and secondary level. To achieve the ambitious targets suggested by the current guidelines, other lipid-lowering therapies are currently available in addition to statins, such as ezetimibe the inhibitors of the PCSK9. Pharmacological research has recently led to the development of a new drug, the bempedoic acid, which further enrich the available therapies. This drug also acts on the biosynthesis of cholesterol but at upstream level than statins. From the biochemical point of view, it has the potential to be considered before the statin with consequent titration of statins to achieve the desirable LDL-C target. In the present review, the biochemical and pharmacological characteristics of bempedoic acid are discussed. An overview of the clinical data that support its use in the management of the cardiovascular patient and its allocation in the lipid-lowering scenario will be also provided.
Tuning the Electronic Structure of a Novel 3D Architectured Co-N-C Aerogel to Enhance Oxygen Evolution Reaction Activity
Authors: Ni Chunsheng , Huang Shuntian , Koudama Tete Daniel , Wu Xiaodong , Cui Sheng , Shen Xiaodong , Chen Xiangbao
Published: April 2023

Hydrogen generation through water electrolysis is an efficient technique for hydrogen production, but the expensive price and scarcity of noble metal electrocatalysts hinder its large-scale application. Herein, cobalt-anchored nitrogen-doped graphene aerogel electrocatalysts (Co-N-C) for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are prepared by simple chemical reduction and vacuum freeze-drying. The Co (0.5 wt%)-N (1 wt%)-C aerogel electrocatalyst has an optimal overpotential (0.383 V at 10 mA/cm2), which is significantly superior to that of a series of M-N-C aerogel electrocatalysts prepared by a similar route (M = Mn, Fe, Ni, Pt, Au, etc.) and other Co-N-C electrocatalysts that have been reported. In addition, the Co-N-C aerogel electrocatalyst has a small Tafel slope (95 mV/dec), a large electrochemical surface area (9.52 cm2), and excellent stability. Notably, the overpotential of Co-N-C aerogel electrocatalyst at a current density of 20 mA/cm2 is even superior to that of the commercial RuO2. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) confirms that the metal activity trend is Co-N-C > Fe-N-C > Ni-N-C, which is consistent with the OER activity results. The resulting Co-N-C aerogels can be considered one of the most promising electrocatalysts for energy storage and energy saving due to their simple preparation route, abundant raw materials, and superior electrocatalytic performance.
Tumor Microenvironment-Responsive 6-Mercaptopurine-Releasing Injectable Hydrogel for Colon Cancer Treatment
Authors: Kim Sungjun , Lee Wonjeong , Park Heewon , Kim Kyobum
Published: April 2023

Colon cancer is a significant health concern. The development of effective drug delivery systems is critical for improving treatment outcomes. In this study, we developed a drug delivery system for colon cancer treatment by embedding 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), an anticancer drug, in a thiolated gelatin/polyethylene glycol diacrylate hydrogel (6MP-GPGel). The 6MP-GPGel continuously released 6-MP, the anticancer drug. The release rate of 6-MP was further accelerated in an acidic or glutathione environment that mimicked a tumor microenvironment. In addition, when pure 6-MP was used for treatment, cancer cells proliferated again from day 5, whereas a continuous supply of 6-MP from the 6MP-GPGel continuously suppressed the survival rate of cancer cells. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that embedding 6-MP in a hydrogel formulation can improve the efficacy of colon cancer treatment and may serve as a promising minimally invasive and localized drug delivery system for future development.
SATB2-Associated Syndrome Due to a c.715C>T:p(Arg239*) Variant in Adulthood: Natural History and Literature Review
Authors: Copelli Matheus de Mello , Pairet Eleonore , Atique-Tacla Milena , Vieira Társis Paiva , Appenzeller Simone , Helaers Raphaël , Vikkula Miikka , Gil-da-Silva-Lopes Vera Lúcia
Published: April 2023

SATB2-associated syndrome (SAS) is a rare condition, and it is characterized by severe developmental delay/intellectual disability, especially severe speech delay/or absence, craniofacial abnormalities, and behavioral problems. Most of the published reports are limited to children, with little information about the natural history of the disease and the possible novel signs and symptoms or behavioral changes in adulthood. We describe the management and follow-up of a 25-year-old male with SAS due to a de novo heterozygous nonsense variant SATB2:c.715C>T:p.(Arg239*) identified by whole-exome sequencing and review the literature. The case herein described contributes to a better characterization of the natural history of this genetic condition and in addition to the genotype–phenotype correlation of the SATB2:c.715C>T:p.(Arg239*) variant in SAS, highlights some particularities of its management.
Integrative Transcriptomics Data Mining to Explore the Functions of TDP1α and TDP1β Genes in the Arabidopsis thaliana Model Plant
Authors: Pagano Paola , Pagano Andrea , Paternolli Stefano , Balestrazzi Alma , Macovei Anca
Published: April 2023

The tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1) enzyme hydrolyzes the phosphodiester bond between a tyrosine residue and the 3′-phosphate of DNA in the DNA–topoisomerase I (TopI) complex, being involved in different DNA repair pathways. A small TDP1 gene subfamily is present in plants, where TDP1α has been linked to genome stability maintenance, while TDP1β has unknown functions. This work aimed to comparatively investigate the function of the TDP1 genes by taking advantage of the rich transcriptomics databases available for the Arabidopsis thaliana model plant. A data mining approach was carried out to collect information regarding gene expression in different tissues, genetic backgrounds, and stress conditions, using platforms where RNA-seq and microarray data are deposited. The gathered data allowed us to distinguish between common and divergent functions of the two genes. Namely, TDP1β seems to be involved in root development and associated with gibberellin and brassinosteroid phytohormones, whereas TDP1α is more responsive to light and abscisic acid. During stress conditions, both genes are highly responsive to biotic and abiotic treatments in a time- and stress-dependent manner. Data validation using gamma-ray treatments applied to Arabidopsis seedlings indicated the accumulation of DNA damage and extensive cell death associated with the observed changes in the TDP1 genes expression profiles.
Rare 15q21.1q22.31 Duplication Due to a Familial Chromosomal Insertion and Diagnostic Investigation in a Carrier of Balanced Chromosomal Rearrangement and Intellectual Disability
Authors: Nascimento Carolina Gama , Prota Joana Rosa Marques , Sgardioli Ilária Cristina , Spineli-Silva Samira , Campos Nilma Lúcia Viguetti , Gil-da-Silva-Lopes Vera Lúcia , Vieira Társis Paiva
Published: April 2023

Insertions are rare balanced chromosomal rearrangements with an increased risk of imbalances for the offspring. Moreover, balanced rearrangements in individuals with abnormal phenotypes may be associated to the phenotype by different mechanisms. This study describes a three-generation family with a rare chromosomal insertion. G-banded karyotype, chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), whole-exome sequencing (WES), and low-pass whole-genome sequencing (WGS) were performed. Six individuals had the balanced insertion [ins(9;15)(q33;q21.1q22.31)] and three individuals had the derivative chromosome 9 [der(9)ins(9;15)(q33;q21.1q22.31)]. The three subjects with unbalanced rearrangement showed similar clinical features, including intellectual disability, short stature, and facial dysmorphisms. CMA of these individuals revealed a duplication of 19.3 Mb at 15q21.1q22.31. A subject with balanced rearrangement presented with microcephaly, severe intellectual disability, absent speech, motor stereotypy, and ataxia. CMA of this patient did not reveal pathogenic copy number variations and low-pass WGS showed a disruption of the RABGAP1 gene at the 9q33 breakpoint. This gene has been recently associated with a recessive disorder, which is not compatible with the mode of inheritance in this patient. WES revealed an 88 bp deletion in the MECP2 gene, consistent with Rett syndrome. This study describes the clinical features associated with the rare 15q21.1–q22.31 duplication and reinforces that searching for other genetic causes is warranted for individuals with inherited balanced chromosomal rearrangements and abnormal phenotypes.
A Comprehensive Pan-Cancer Analysis of the Regulation and Prognostic Effect of Coat Complex Subunit Zeta 1
Authors: Hong Ye , Xia Zengfei , Sun Yuting , Lan Yingxia , Di Tian , Yang Jing , Sun Jian , Qiu Miaozhen , Luo Qiuyun , Yang Dajun
Published: April 2023

The Coatomer protein complex Zeta 1 (COPZ1) has been reported to play an essential role in maintaining the survival of some types of tumors. In this study, we sought to explore the molecular characteristics of COPZ1 and its clinical prognostic value through a pan-cancers bioinformatic analysis. We found that COPZ1 was extremely prevalent in a variety of cancer types, and high expression of COPZ1 was linked to poor overall survival in many cancers, while low expression in LAML and PADC was correlated with tumorigenesis. Besides, the CRISPR Achilles’ knockout analysis revealed that COPZ1 was vital for many tumor cells’ survival. We further demonstrated that the high expression level of COPZ1 in tumors was regulated in multi-aspects, including abnormal CNV, DNA-methylation, transcription factor and microRNAs. As for the functional exploration of COPZ1, we found a positive relationship between COPZ1’s expression and stemness and hypoxia signature, especially the contribution of COPZ1 on EMT ability in SARC. GSEA analysis revealed that COPZ1 was associated with many immune response pathways. Further investigation demonstrated that COPZ expression was negatively correlated with immune score and stromal score, and low expression of COPZ1 has been associated to more antitumor immune cell infiltration and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The further analysis of COPZ1 expression and anti-inflammatory M2 cells showed a consistent result. Finally, we verified the expression of COPZ1 in HCC cells, and proved its ability of sustaining tumor growth and invasion with biological experiments. Our study provides a multi-dimensional pan-cancer analysis of COPZ and demonstrates that COPZ1 can serve as both a prospective target for the treatment of cancer and a prognostic marker for a variety of cancer types.
Framework for Guiding the Development of High-Quality Conversational Agents in Healthcare
Authors: Denecke Kerstin
Published: April 2023

Evaluating conversational agents (CAs) that are supposed to be applied in healthcare settings and ensuring their quality is essential to avoid patient harm and ensure efficacy of the CA-delivered intervention. However, a guideline for a standardized quality assessment of health CAs is still missing. The objective of this work is to describe a framework that provides guidance for development and evaluation of health CAs. In previous work, consensus on categories for evaluating health CAs has been found. In this work, we identify concrete metrics, heuristics, and checklists for these evaluation categories to form a framework. We focus on a specific type of health CA, namely rule-based systems that are based on written input and output, have a simple personality without any kind of embodiment. First, we identified relevant metrics, heuristics, and checklists to be linked to the evaluation categories through a literature search. Second, five experts judged the metrics regarding their relevance to be considered within evaluation and development of health CAs. The final framework considers nine aspects from a general perspective, five aspects from a response understanding perspective, one aspect from a response generation perspective, and three aspects from an aesthetics perspective. Existing tools and heuristics specifically designed for evaluating CAs were linked to these evaluation aspects (e.g., Bot usability scale, design heuristics for CAs); tools related to mHealth evaluation were adapted when necessary (e.g., aspects from the ISO technical specification for mHealth Apps). The resulting framework comprises aspects to be considered not only as part of a system evaluation, but already during the development. In particular, aspects related to accessibility or security have to be addressed in the design phase (e.g., which input and output options are provided to ensure accessibility?) and have to be verified after the implementation phase. As a next step, transfer of the framework to other types of health CAs has to be studied. The framework has to be validated by applying it during health CA design and development.
Awareness and Attitude of Polish Gynecologists and General Practitioners towards Human Papillomavirus Vaccinations
Authors: Sypień Piotr , Marek Weronika , Zielonka Tadeusz M.
Published: April 2023

Human papillomavirus (HPV) leads to diseases of the skin and mucous membranes of the anogenital and upper gastrointestinal tract, especially neoplasia. HPV vaccinations effectively protect against the development of HPV-related diseases. However, despite the wide availability of vaccination for patients, only a few percent of Polish children are vaccinated. The reasons for this are certainly complex. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate gynecologists’ and general practitioners’ knowledge, awareness and attitudes towards HPV vaccination and analyze their opinions about the interest in HPV vaccinations among children and parents. An anonymous, voluntary, cross-sectional survey study was conducted among 300 Polish gynecologists and general practitioners. Participants were from a diverse group with a wide range of work experience and different workplaces. Most of the respondents (83%), especially the gynecologists (p = 0.03), declared informing and discussing with parents the HPV-related diseases and prevention methods. Only 8% of the participants reported a negative reaction from parents when talking about HPV vaccines. However, in practice, physicians very rarely recommend this vaccine. HPV vaccination was recommended more often by female physicians (p = 0.03), general practitioners (p < 0.001), physicians working over five years (p < 0.001), doctors who regularly vaccinated themselves against influenza (p = 0.01) and those who vaccinated their children against HPV (p =0.001). The availability of educational materials for parents and/or patients encouraged physicians to provide this information (p < 0.001). Polish gynecologists and general practitioners declared a positive attitude regarding HPV vaccines; however, they rarely recommended this vaccine. Physicians who vaccinate themselves against influenza and their own children against HPV are more likely to provide information and encourage HPV vaccination in others. Additionally, the availability of educational material for parents and adolescents plays an essential role in the popularization of this vaccination. Knowledge alone is not enough for physicians to recommend the vaccination to patients.
Effects of Different Types of Potassium Fertilizers on Nutrient Uptake by Grapevine
Authors: Hu Wenjie , Wang Jin , Deng Qunxian , Liang Dong , Xia Hui , Lin Lijin , Lv Xiulan
Published: April 2023

Potassium (K) is the most important element for fruit quality improvement. This study aimed at determining the best K fertilizer type that can promote grape growth and nutrient uptake. Specifically, four types of K fertilizers (complex fertilizer, potassium nitrate, potassium sulfate, and potassium dihydrogen phosphate) were applied to grapevines grown in plastic pots, and then their effects on grape growth and nutrient uptake were explored. Results showed that the complex fertilizer and potassium nitrate treatments increased the biomass of the grapevine plants, whereas the other fertilizers had no significant effects on the biomass. Only the potassium nitrate treatment increased the contents of photosynthetic pigments in grapevine leaves. The complex fertilizer and potassium nitrate treatments increased the total N content in the grapevine plants to some extent, whereas the other fertilizer treatments decreased the total N content to some extent. It was also evident that all four K fertilizers increased the total P and K contents in the grapevine plants. Compared to the control, the complex fertilizer, potassium nitrate, potassium sulfate, and potassium dihydrogen phosphate treatments increased the scion total P content by 20.18%, 9.77%, 12.52%, and 30.81%, respectively, and increased the scion total K content by 15.37%, 8.41%, 20.15%, and 26.48%, respectively. In addition, correlation and grey relational analyses showed that the rootstock stem total N content, rootstock root biomass, and soil alkali-hydrolyzable N concentration were the top three indicators most closely associated with the scion total N content, whereas the rootstock root total P content, soil available P concentration, and rootstock stem total P content were the top three indicators most closely associated with the scion total P content. Additionally, the rootstock root total K content, soil available K concentration, and rootstock root total P content were the top three indicators most closely associated with the scion total K content. Overall, the different K fertilizers can all promote the uptake of P and K by grapevine plants, and the potassium dihydrogen phosphate fertilizer is the best choice.
Search for a Relevant Scale to Optimize the Quality Monitoring of Groundwater Bodies in the Occitanie Region (France)
Authors: Jabrane Meryem , Touiouine Abdessamad , Valles Vincent , Bouabdli Abdelhak , Chakiri Said , Mohsine Ismail , El Jarjini Youssouf , Morarech Moad , Duran Yannick , Barbiero Laurent
Published: April 2023

In France, and more generally in Europe, the high number of groundwater bodies (GWB) per administrative region is an obstacle for the management and monitoring of water for human consumption by regional health agencies. Moreover, GWBs show a high spatial, temporal, physico-chemical, and bacteriological variability. The objective is to establish homogeneous groupings of GWB from the point of view of water quality and the processes responsible for this quality. In the Occitanie region in southwestern France, the cross-referencing of two databases, namely the French reference system for groundwater bodies and SISE-EAUX, provided a dataset of 8110 observations and 15 parameters distributed over 106 GWB. The 8-step approach, including data conditioning, dimensional reduction by Principal Component Analysis, and hierarchical clustering, resulted in 20 homogeneous groups of GWB over the whole region. The loss of information caused by this grouping is quantified by the evolution of the explained variance. Splitting the region into two large basins (Adour-Garonne and Rhône Méditerranée) according to the recommendations of the European community does not result in a significant additional loss of information contained in the data. A quick study of a few groups allows to highlight the specificities of each one, thus enabling targeted guidelines or recommendations for water quality management and monitoring. In the future, the method will have to be tested on the scale of large European watersheds, as well as in the context of an increase in the number of parameters.
Time Perspective Latent Profile Analysis and Its Meaning for School Burnout, Depression, and Family Acceptance in Adolescents
Authors: Kossewska Joanna , Tomaszek Katarzyna , Macałka Emilia
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to apply latent profile analysis (LPA) to (a) empirically identify adolescents’ profiles based on their time perspective (TP), using a person-centered approach; (b) outline the identified profiles across student burnout, depression, and perceived family acceptance; and (c) establish differences between pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 students. Cross-sectional data were collected through an online survey of 668 adolescents. The participants completed the Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale (KADS), Student School Burnout Scale (SSBS), Time Perspective Inventory (TPI), and Perceived Family Acceptance (PFA) items. Five subtypes of TP were found: hedonistic youth focused mainly on the present time; hedonistic youths focused on the present and future time; fatalistic youths focused on the present and negative past time; future-oriented youths with a positive perception of the past; and hedonistic youths focused on the present with a mild past-negative time perspective. These five profiles were compared for the variables of student burnout, depression, and perceived family acceptance. Scores from SSBS, KADS, and PFA showed a statistical difference across the five subtypes, with the most intensive mental health, social, and educational problems in profile 5. The level of SSBS was significantly different in the pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 samples; however, no significant differences were found in KADS and PFA. Thus, perspective should be emphasized in adolescents with burnout and depression symptoms.
The Long-Term Efficacy and Sustainability of the Tabby Improved Prevention and Intervention Program in Reducing Cyberbullying and Cybervictimization
Authors: Sorrentino Anna , Sulla Francesco , Santamato Margherita , Cipriano Annarosa , Cella Stefania
Published: April 2023

Although cyberbullying and cybervictimization prevention programs have proved effective in the short term, their effectiveness remains unclear in the long run. Thus, the present study evaluated the long-term effects of the Tabby Improved Prevention and Intervention Program (TIPIP). Participants were 475 middle and high school students (Mage = 12.38; SD = 1.45; F = 241, 51%), of whom, 167 were in the Experimental Group (EG; Mage = 13.15; SD = 1.52; M = 51.5%), and 308 were in the Control Group (CG; Mage = 13.47; SD = 1.35; M = 47.7%). Students completed measures assessing cyberbullying and cybervictimization at three time points: baseline (T1), immediately after the intervention (6 months, T2), and at 1 year (T3). The results showed no significant effects of the TIPIP in reducing both cyberbullying and cybervictimization over time. Overall, our results confirm the lack of effectiveness of long-term preventive programs and emphasize that different curricula should be implemented in future programs to prevent and manage cyberbullying and cybervictimization, also taking into account psychological mechanisms and processes involved in such behaviors.
COVID-19 Racism and Chinese American Families’ Mental Health: A Comparison between 2020 and 2021
Authors: Cheah Charissa S. L. , Ren Huiguang , Zong Xiaoli , Wang Cixin
Published: April 2023

This study compared rates of multiple forms of COVID-19 racism-related discrimination experiences, fear/worries, and their associations with mental health indices among Chinese American parents and youth between 2020 and 2021. Chinese American parents of 4- to 18-year-old children and a subsample of their 10- to 18-year-old adolescents completed surveys in 2020 and 2021. A high percentage of Chinese American parents and their children continued to experience or witness anti-Chinese/Asian racism both online and in person in 2021. Parents and youth experienced less vicarious discrimination in person but more direct discrimination (both online and in person) and reported poorer mental health in 2021 than in 2020. Associations with mental health were stronger in 2021 than in 2020 for parents’ and/or youth’s vicarious discrimination experiences, perceptions of Sinophobia, and government-related worries, but weaker only for parents’ direct discrimination experiences. The spillover effect from parents’ vicarious discrimination experiences and Sinophobia perceptions to all youth mental health indices were stronger in 2021 than in 2020. Chinese American families experienced high rates of racial discrimination across multiple dimensions, and the detrimental impacts on their mental health were still salient in the second year of the pandemic. Vicarious and collective racism may have even stronger negative impacts on mental health and well-being later in the pandemic. Decreasing health disparities for Chinese Americans and other communities of color requires extensive, long-term national efforts to eliminate structural aspects of racism.
Editorial: Health and Well-Being Related to New Family Forms: Perspectives of Adults, Couples, Children, and Professionals
Authors: Segal-Engelchin Dorit , Taubman-Ben-Ari Orit
Published: April 2023

The aim of this Special Issue is to advance our understanding of the factors that shape the experience, well-being, and mental health of individuals on their path to creating new family forms, including adults and children, and to inform the development of policies and practices designed to promote the thriving of these families. This Special Issue contains a collection of 13 papers that shed light on a range of micro- and macro-level factors contributing to the experience and outcomes of members of new family forms from various countries, such as the UK, Israel, Italy, China, Portugal, the Netherlands, the US, and Russia. The papers extend the current knowledge on the subject from a variety of perspectives, including medical, psychological, social, and digital communications. Their findings can aid professionals supporting members of new family forms to recognize the similarities and challenges they share with their counterparts in traditional heterosexual two-parent families, as well as their unique needs and strengths. They may also encourage policymakers to promote laws and policies designed to address the cultural, legal, and institutional constraints facing these families. Based on the overall picture that emerges from this Special Issue, we suggest valuable avenues for future research.
Examining the Role of Interpersonal Violence in Racial Disparities in Breastfeeding in North Dakota (ND PRAMS 2017–2019)
Authors: Kanichy (Makah) MichaeLynn , Schmidt Lexie , Anderson RaeAnn , Njau Grace , Stiffarm (Aaniiih) Amy , Schmidt Matthew , Stepanov Anastasia , Williams Andrew
Published: April 2023

Background. The 2019 overall breastfeeding initiation rate in the US was 84.1%, yet only 76.6% of American Indian (AI) women initiated breastfeeding. In North Dakota (ND), AI women have greater exposure to interpersonal violence than other racial/ethnic groups. Stress associated with interpersonal violence may interfere with processes important to breastfeeding. We explored whether interpersonal violence partially explains racial/ethnic disparities in breastfeeding in ND. Methods. Data for 2161 women were drawn from the 2017–2019 ND Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System. Breastfeeding questions in PRAMS have been tested among diverse populations. Breastfeeding initiation was self-report to “Did you ever breastfeed or pump breast milk to feed your new baby, even for a short period?” (yes/no). Breastfeeding duration (2 months; 6 months) was self-reported how many weeks or months of breastmilk feeding. Interpersonal violence for both 12 months before and during pregnancy based on self-report (yes/no) of violence from a husband/partner, family member, someone else, or ex-husband/partner. An “Any violence” variable was created if participants reported “yes” to any violence. Logistic regression models estimated crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for breastfeeding outcomes among AI and Other Race women compared to White women. Sequential models were adjusted for interpersonal violence (husband/partner, family member, someone else, ex-husband/partner, or any). Results. AI women had 45% reduced odds of initiating breastfeeding (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.36, 0.82) compared to white women. Including interpersonal violence during pregnancy did not change results. Similar patterns were observed for all breastfeeding outcomes and all interpersonal violence exposures. Discussion. Interpersonal violence does not explain the disparity in breastfeeding in ND. Considering cultural ties to the tradition of breastfeeding and the role of colonization may provide a better understanding of breastfeeding among AI populations.
Adverse Perinatal Outcomes among Adolescent Pregnant Women Living with HIV: A Propensity-Score-Matched Study
Authors: Osmundo Junior Gilmar de Souza , Cabar Fábio Roberto , Peres Stela Verzinhasse , Waissman Adriana Lippi , Galletta Marco Aurélio Knippel , Francisco Rossana Pulcineli Vieira
Published: April 2023

HIV infection and adolescent pregnancy are known to increase the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. However, data are limited concerning the outcomes of pregnancies among adolescent girls living with HIV. This retrospective propensity-score matched study aimed to compare adverse perinatal outcomes in adolescent pregnant women living with HIV (APW-HIV-positive) with HIV-negative adolescent pregnant women (APW-HIV-negative) and adult pregnant women with HIV (PW-HIV). APW-HIV-positive were propensity-score matched with APW-HIV-negative and PW-HIV. The primary endpoint was a composite endpoint of adverse perinatal outcomes, comprising preterm birth and low birth weight. There were 15 APW-HIV-positive and 45 women in each control group. The APW-HIV-positive were aged 16 (13–17) years and had had HIV for 15.5 (4–17) years, with 86.7% having perinatally acquired HIV. The APW-HIV-positive had higher rates of perinatally acquired HIV infection (86.7 vs. 24.4%, p < 0.001), a longer HIV infection time (p = 0.021), and longer exposure to antiretroviral therapy (p = 0.034) compared with the PW-HIV controls. The APW-HIV-positive had an almost five-fold increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes compared with healthy controls (42.9% vs. 13.3%, p = 0.026; OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.2–19.1). The APW-HIV-positive and APW-HIV-negative groups had similar perinatal outcomes.
‘If in Doubt, Sit Them Out’: How Long to Return to Elite Cycling Competition following a Sports-Related Concussion (SRC)?
Authors: Heron Neil , Jones Nigel , Cardwell Christopher , Gomes Clint
Published: April 2023

Introduction: A concussion or sports-related concussion (SRC) is a traumatic brain injury induced by biomechanical forces. After a SRC diagnosis is made, a concussed individual must undergo a period away from competition while they return to their baseline level of functioning. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) currently recommend a minimum of 6 days restriction from competitive cycling following a SRC but there is a growing feeling amongst those involved in brain injury research that this period is too short. Therefore, how much time should cyclists be removed from competitive sporting action following a SRC? Aims: To review the time out of competition following the diagnosis of a SRC for elite cyclists within British Cycling (BC). Methods: All medical records for elite cyclists within BC were audited for diagnoses of “concussion” or “sports-related concussions” from January 2017 until September 2022. The days out of competition following the concussion until ready to compete again (that is, returned to full training) was then calculated. All diagnoses and management of SRC were undertaken by the medical team at BC and in-keeping with current international guidelines. Results: Between January 2017 and September 2022, there were 88 concussions diagnosed, 54 being males and 8 in para-athletes. The median duration for time out of competition for all concussions was 16 days. There was no statistical difference between males (median 15.5 days) and females (median 17.5 days) for time out of competition (p-value 0.25). The median duration out of competition following a concussion for able-bodied athletes was 16 (80 athletes) compared to 51 days (8 athletes) in para-cyclists, which was not statistically different (p-value 0.39). Conclusions: This is the first study to report SRC concussion recovery times in elite cycling, including para-athletes. Between January 2017 and September 2022, there were 88 concussions diagnosed at BC and the median duration for time out of competition for all concussions was 16 days. There was no statistically significant difference in recovery times between male and females and para- and able-bodied athletes. This data should be used to help establish minimum withdrawal times post-SRC for elite cycling participation and we call on the UCI to review this data when establishing SRC protocols for cycling, with further research required in para-cyclists.