bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel, Edible Melanin-Protein-Based Bioactive Films for Cheeses: Antimicrobial, Mechanical and Chemical Characteristics
Authors: Ferraz Ana Rita , Goulão Manuela , Santo Christophe E. , Anjos Ofélia , Serralheiro Maria Luísa , Pintado Cristina M. B. S.
Published: April 2023

The cheese rind is the natural food packaging of cheese and is subject to a wide range of external factors that compromise the appearance of the cheese, including color defects caused by spoilage microorganisms. First, eight films based on whey protein isolate (WPI) coatings were studied, of which IS3CA (WPI 5% + sorbitol 3% + citric acid 3%) was selected for presenting better properties. From the IS3CA film, novel films containing melanin M1 (74 µg/mL) and M2 (500 µg/mL) were developed and applied to cheese under proof-of-concept and industrial conditions. After 40 days of maturation, M2 presented the lowest microorganism count for all the microbial parameters analyzed. The cheese with M2 showed the lowest lightness, which indicates that it is the darkest cheese due to the melanin concentration. It was found that the mechanical and colorimetric properties are the ones that contribute the most to the distinction of the M2 film in cheese from the others. Using FTIR-ATR, it was possible to distinguish the rinds of M2 cheeses because they contained the highest concentrations of melanin. Thus, this study shows that the film with M2 showed the best mechanical, chemical and antimicrobial properties for application in cheese.
Determination of Pesticide Residues in IV Range Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L.) and Its Industrial Wastes
Authors: Corrias Francesco , Arru Nicola , Atzei Alessandro , Milia Massimo , Scano Efisio , Angioni Alberto
Published: April 2023

Fourth-range products are those types of fresh fruit and vegetables that are ready for raw consumption or after cooking, and belong to organic or integrated cultivations. These products are subject to mild post-harvesting processing procedures (selection, sorting, husking, cutting, and washing), and are afterwards packaged in packets or closed food plates, with an average shelf life of 5–10 days. Artichokes are stripped of the leaves, stems and outer bracts, and the remaining heads are washed with acidifying solutions. The A LC-MS/MS analytical method was developed and validated following SANTE guidelines for the detection of 220 pesticides. This work evaluated the distribution of pesticide residues among the fraction of artichokes obtained during the industrial processing, and the residues of their wastes left on the field were also investigated. The results showed quantifiable residues of one herbicide (pendimethalin) and four fungicides (azoxystrobin, propyzamide, tebuconazole, and pyraclostrobin). Pendimethalin was found in all samples, with the higher values in leaves 0.046 ± 8.2 mg/kg and in field waste 0.30 ± 6.7 mg/kg. Azoxystrobin was the most concentrated in the outer bracts (0.18 ± 2.9 mg/kg). The outer bracts showed the highest number of residues. The industrial waste showed a significant decrease in the number of residues and their concentration.
Proximate Composition and Fatty Acid Profile of Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata) Fed with Pelvetia canaliculata-Supplemented Diets: An Insight towards the Valorization of Seaweed Biomass
Authors: Antunes Madalena , Neves Marta , Pires Damiana , Passos Ricardo , do Carmo Beatriz , Tchobanov Carolina F. , Forte Sara , Vaz Mariana , Baptista Teresa , Tecelão Carla
Published: April 2023

Seaweeds are a sustainable source of protein and lipids that may be used to replace fish by-products in aquaculture feed. This study aimed at using the macroalgae Pelvetia canaliculata as an ingredient in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) feed, either as freeze-dried powder or as algae residue (waste) that was obtained after the supplementation of sunflower oil. The formulated diets and the fish muscle were analyzed concerning the proximate composition and the fatty acid profile. The health lipid indices hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (h/H), atherogenic (AI), thrombogenic (TI), as well as n-3/n-6 and polyunsaturated fatty acid/saturated fatty acid (PUFA/SFA) ratios were calculated. Additionally, the peroxidizability index (PI) was determined. No differences were observed in the proximate composition of fish muscle regardless of the diet used. Fish fed a diet supplemented with 10% of algae waste (W10) stand out for the highest content in oleic acid (C18:1 n-9), and the lowest in both linoleic (C18:2 n-6) and palmitic (C16:0) fatty acids. All fish samples showed values of health lipid indices within the limits recommend for a nutritional balanced diet. These results highlight that fish fed diets supplemented with P. canaliculata are sources of healthy lipids that might be consumed on a regular basis to prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Determination of 355 Pesticides in Lemon and Lemon Juice by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS
Authors: Aslantas Sule , Golge Ozgur , González-Curbelo Miguel , Kabak Bulent
Published: April 2023

While pesticides have become a primary tool in modern agriculture, these compounds remain a high priority on the list of consumer concerns regarding food safety. The use of pesticides in the production and post-harvesting of lemon fruits is widely used to ensure agricultural yield and fruit quality. Therefore, monitoring studies on citrus fruits to enforce regulatory compliance and ensure food safety is in great demand. The aim of this study was to monitor multi-class pesticide residues in lemon fruits commercialized in Turkey. The transmission of residues that existed on the outer surface of the fruit into its juice was also studied. Whole fruits and lemon juice samples were prepared using the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) methodology prior to analysis. For the screening and quantification of 355 pesticide residues, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) were used. The analytical method has been shown to have a sufficiently low limit of quantification with respect to current maximum residue limits (MRLs) for all target analytes. The obtained recovery and precision parameters fulfilled the requirements in DG SANTE guidelines. The in-house validated analytical method was then applied for the determination of 355 pesticide substances in 100 whole fruit samples and their juices. Sixteen different residues were detected in 43% of lemon fruits, whereas 57 lemon samples were pesticide-free. The MRLs exceedances were recorded in 29 lemon samples. The most frequently detected (17%) pesticide in lemon fruits was chlorpyrifos-methyl, with a range of 0.013–0.098 mg kg−1. A lower frequency was detected for metamitron (10%, 0.027–0.118 mg kg−1), buprofezin (9%, 0.023–0.076 mg kg−1), pyriproxyfen (9%, 0.021–0.102 mg kg−1) and malathion (7%, 0.100–0.482 mg kg−1) in whole fruits. However, none of the pesticide residues were detected in lemon juice samples. These results showed that target analytes are unable to penetrate the lemon exocarp and/or endocarp.
Food Emulsion Gels from Plant-Based Ingredients: Formulation, Processing, and Potential Applications
Authors: Yiu Canice Chun-Yin , Liang Sophie Wenfei , Mukhtar Kinza , Kim Woojeong , Wang Yong , Selomulya Cordelia
Published: April 2023

Recent advances in the understanding of formulations and processing techniques have allowed for greater freedom in plant-based emulsion gel design to better recreate conventional animal-based foods. The roles of plant-based proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids in the formulation of emulsion gels and relevant processing techniques such as high-pressure homogenization (HPH), ultrasound (UH), and microfluidization (MF), were discussed in correlation with the effects of varying HPH, UH, and MF processing parameters on emulsion gel properties. The characterization methods for plant-based emulsion gels to quantify their rheological, thermal, and textural properties, as well as gel microstructure, were presented with a focus on how they can be applied for food purposes. Finally, the potential applications of plant-based emulsion gels, such as dairy and meat alternatives, condiments, baked goods, and functional foods, were discussed with a focus on sensory properties and consumer acceptance. This study found that the implementation of plant-based emulsion gel in food is promising to date despite persisting challenges. This review will provide valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals looking to understand and utilize plant-based food emulsion gels.
Tracing a Female Mind in Late Nineteenth Century Australia: Rose Selwyn
Authors: Byrne Paula Jane
Published: April 2023

Rose Selwyn (1824–1905) was a first wave Australian feminist and public speaker. The poetry, art, and scraps of writing Rose left in her archive allow the reader to piece together an intellectual history, a genealogy of the making of self. Rose attained her way of being through several contemporary influences—the mysticism of Tractarianism, a concern with death and its meanings, an interest in the literary edges of the world, a concern with the suffering body, and a passion for women and a woman-centred world. From these tangled contemporary concerns, she made a feminism for all non-Aboriginal women apparent in her speeches. Her role as a colonising woman in a violent landscape created a complex relationship with Aboriginal people where she may be seen to be criticising her elite landholding (squatter) peers and introducing concepts such as an Aboriginal parliament.
Complete Mitogenome and Phylogenetic Analysis of the Carthamus tinctorius L.
Authors: Wu Zhihua , Yang Tiange , Qin Rui , Liu Hong
Published: April 2023

Carthamus tinctorius L. 1753 (Asteraceae), also called safflower, is a cash crop with both edible and medical properties. We analyzed and reported the safflower mitogenome based on combined short and long reads obtained from Illumina and Pacbio platforms, respectively. This safflower mitogenome mainly contained two circular chromosomes, with a total length of 321,872 bp, and encoded 55 unique genes, including 34 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 3 rRNA genes, and 18 tRNA genes. The total length of repeat sequences greater than 30 bp was 24,953 bp, accounting for 7.75% of the whole mitogenome. Furthermore, we characterized the RNA editing sites of protein-coding genes located in the safflower mitogenome, and the total number of RNA editing sites was 504. Then, we revealed partial sequence transfer events between plastid and mitochondria, in which one plastid-derived gene (psaB) remained intact in the mitogenome. Despite extensive arrangement events among the three mitogenomes of C. tinctorius, Arctium lappa, and Saussurea costus, the constructed phylogenetic tree based on mitogenome PCGs showed that C. tinctorius has a closer relationship with three Cardueae species, A. lappa, A. tomentosum, and S. costus, which is similar to the phylogeny constructed from the PCGs of plastid genomes. This mitogenome not only enriches the genetic information of safflower but also will be useful in the phylogeny and evolution study of the Asteraceae.
Contribution of Genetic Test to Early Diagnosis of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) Deficiency: The Experience of a Reference Center in Southern Italy
Authors: Barretta Ferdinando , Uomo Fabiana , Fecarotta Simona , Albano Lucia , Crisci Daniela , Verde Alessandra , Fisco Maria Grazia , Gallo Giovanna , Dottore Stagna Daniela , Pricolo Maria Rosaria , Alagia Marianna , Terrone Gaetano , Rossi Alessandro , Parenti Giancarlo , Ruoppolo Margherita , Mazzaccara Cristina , Frisso Giulia
Published: April 2023

Background: the deficiency of 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) constitutes a rare and severe metabolic disease and is included in most expanded newborn screening (NBS) programs worldwide. Patients with severe MTHFR deficiency develop neurological disorders and premature vascular disease. Timely diagnosis through NBS allows early treatment, resulting in improved outcomes. Methods: we report the diagnostic yield of genetic testing for MTHFR deficiency diagnosis, in a reference Centre of Southern Italy between 2017 and 2022. MTHFR deficiency was suspected in four newborns showing hypomethioninemia and hyperhomocysteinemia; otherwise, one patient born in pre-screening era showed clinical symptoms and laboratory signs that prompted to perform genetic testing for MTHFR deficiency. Results: molecular analysis of the MTHFR gene revealed a genotype compatible with MTHFR deficiency in two NBS-positive newborns and in the symptomatic patient. This allowed for promptly beginning the adequate metabolic therapy. Conclusions: our results strongly support the need for genetic testing to quickly support the definitive diagnosis of MTHFR deficiency and start therapy. Furthermore, our study extends knowledge of the molecular epidemiology of MTHFR deficiency by identifying a novel mutation in the MTHFR gene.
PCSK3 Overexpression in Sjögren’s Syndrome Patients May Be Regulated by rs4932178 SNP in Its Promoter Region and Correlates with IFN-γ Gene Expression
Authors: Latini Andrea , De Benedittis Giada , Colafrancesco Serena , Perricone Carlo , Novelli Giuseppe , Novelli Lucia , Priori Roberta , Ciccacci Cinzia , Borgiani Paola
Published: April 2023

Background: The PCSK3 gene encodes for the protease enzyme Furin, which promotes proteolytic maturation of important regulators of the immune response, and also enhances the secretion of interferon-γ (IFN). Several studies have suggested its possible involvement in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases. Methods: We investigated the PCSK3 gene expression level in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from Sjögren’s Syndrome (SS) patients and healthy controls and we evaluated a possible correlation with IFN-γ gene expression. Moreover, we also explored the variability of two PCSK3 genetic polymorphisms (rs4932178 and rs4702) to evaluate a possible association between these polymorphisms and the expression levels of this gene. Results: We observed, by RT-qPCR, that the PCSK3 expression level was significantly higher in SS patients compared to the controls (p = 0.028), and we confirmed a positive correlation between PCSK3 and IFN-γ expression levels (p < 0.001). Moreover, we reported that the variant homozygous genotype of rs4932178 SNP is associated with a higher expression of the PCSK3 gene (p = 0.038) and with the SS susceptibility (p = 0.016). Conclusions: Our data suggest that Furin could play a role in SS development, also promoting IFN-γ secretion.
Clinical Experience with Genome-Wide Noninvasive Prenatal Screening in a Large Cohort of Twin Pregnancies
Authors: De Falco Luigia , Savarese Giovanni , Savarese Pasquale , Petrillo Nadia , Ianniello Monica , Ruggiero Raffaella , Suero Teresa , Barbato Cosimo , Mori Alessio , Ramiro Cristina , Della Corte Luigi , Saccone Gabriele , Di Spiezio Sardo Attilio , Fico Antonio
Published: April 2023

Non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) in twin gestations has been shown to have high detection rates and low false-positive rates for trisomy 21, as seen in singleton pregnancies, although there have been few large cohort twin studies, genome-wide studies in particular, to date. In this study, we looked at the performance of genome-wide NIPT in a large cohort consisting of 1244 twin pregnancy samples collected over a two-year period in a single laboratory in Italy. All samples underwent an NIPS for common trisomies, with 61.5% of study participants choosing to undergo genome-wide NIPS for additional fetal anomalies (namely, rare autosomal aneuploidies and CNVs). There were nine initial no-call results, all of which were resolved upon retest. Based on our NIPS results, 17 samples were at high risk for trisomy 21, one for trisomy 18, six for a rare autosomal aneuploidy, and four for a CNV. Clinical follow-up was available for 27 out of 29 high-risk cases; a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 99.9%, and a PPV of 94.4% were noted for trisomy 21. Clinical follow-up was also available for 1110 (96.6%) of the low-risk cases, all of which were true negatives. In conclusion, we found that NIPS was a reliable screening approach for trisomy 21 in twin pregnancies.
Generation and Characterization of a Transgenic Mouse That Specifically Expresses the Cre Recombinase in Spermatids
Authors: Gobé Clara , Ialy-Radio Côme , Pierre Rémi , Cocquet Julie
Published: April 2023

Spermiogenesis is the step during which post-meiotic cells, called spermatids, undergo numerous morphological changes and differentiate into spermatozoa. Thousands of genes have been described to be expressed at this stage and could contribute to spermatid differentiation. Genetically-engineered mouse models using Cre/LoxP or CrispR/Cas9 are the favored approaches to characterize gene function and better understand the genetic basis of male infertility. In the present study, we produced a new spermatid-specific Cre transgenic mouse line, in which the improved iCre recombinase is expressed under the control of the acrosomal vesicle protein 1 gene promoter (Acrv1-iCre). We show that Cre protein expression is restricted to the testis and only detected in round spermatids of stage V to VIII seminiferous tubules. The Acrv1-iCre line can conditionally knockout a gene during spermiogenesis with a > 95% efficiency. Therefore, it could be useful to unravel the function of genes during the late stage of spermatogenesis, but it can also be used to produce an embryo with a paternally deleted allele without causing early spermatogenesis defects.
Loss of Primary Cilia Potentiates BRAF/MAPK Pathway Activation in Rhabdoid Colorectal Carcinoma: A Series of 21 Cases Showing Ciliary Rootlet CoiledCoil (CROCC) Alterations
Authors: Remo Andrea , Grillo Federica , Mastracci Luca , Simbolo Michele , Fassan Matteo , Cecchini Maria Paola , Miscio Giuseppe , Sassano Antonio , Parente Paola , Vanoli Alessandro , Sabella Giovanna , Giordano Guido , Urso Emanuele Damiano , Cerulo Luigi , Scarpa Aldo , Fiorica Francesco , Pancione Massimo
Published: April 2023

A rhabdoid colorectal tumor (RCT) is a rare cancer with aggressive clinical behavior. Recently, it has been recognized as a distinct disease entity, characterized by genetic alterations in the SMARCB1 and Ciliary Rootlet Coiled-Coil (CROCC). We here investigate the genetic and immunophenotypic profiling of 21 RCTs using immunohistochemistry and next-generation sequencing. Mismatch repair-deficient phenotypes were identified in 60% of RCTs. Similarly, a large proportion of cancers exhibited the combined marker phenotype (CK7-/CK20-/CDX2-) not common to classical adenocarcinoma variants. More than 70% of cases displayed aberrant activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway with mutations prevalently in BRAF V600E. SMARCB1/INI1 expression was normal in a large majority of lesions. In contrast, ciliogenic markers including CROCC and γ-tubulin were globally altered in tumors. Notably, CROCC and γ-tubulin were observed to colocalize in large cilia found on cancer tissues but not in normal controls. Taken together, our findings indicate that primary ciliogenesis and MAPK pathway activation contribute to the aggressiveness of RCTs and, therefore, may constitute a novel therapeutic target.
Recent Advances in Genetics and Genomics of Snub-Nosed Monkeys (Rhinopithecus) and Their Implications for Phylogeny, Conservation, and Adaptation
Authors: Kuang Weimin , Zinner Dietmar , Li Yuan , Yao Xueqin , Roos Christian , Yu Li
Published: April 2023

The snub-nosed monkey genus Rhinopithecus (Colobinae) comprises five species (Rhinopithecus roxellana, Rhinopithecus brelichi, Rhinopithecus bieti, Rhinopithecus strykeri, and Rhinopithecus avunculus). They are range-restricted species occurring only in small areas in China, Vietnam, and Myanmar. All extant species are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, all with decreasing populations. With the development of molecular genetics and the improvement and cost reduction in whole-genome sequencing, knowledge about evolutionary processes has improved largely in recent years. Here, we review recent major advances in snub-nosed monkey genetics and genomics and their impact on our understanding of the phylogeny, phylogeography, population genetic structure, landscape genetics, demographic history, and molecular mechanisms of adaptation to folivory and high altitudes in this primate genus. We further discuss future directions in this research field, in particular how genomic information can contribute to the conservation of snub-nosed monkeys.
Transcriptome Signatures of Atlantic Salmon—Resistant Phenotypes against Sea Lice Infestation Are Associated with Tissue Repair
Authors: Valenzuela-Muñoz Valentina , Gallardo-Escárate Cristian , Valenzuela-Miranda Diego , Nuñez-Acuña Gustavo , Benavente Bárbara P. , Alert Alejandro , Arevalo Marta
Published: April 2023

Salmon aquaculture is constantly threatened by pathogens that impact fish health, welfare, and productivity, including the sea louse Caligus rogercresseyi. This marine ectoparasite is mainly controlled through delousing drug treatments that have lost efficacy. Therein, strategies such as salmon breeding selection represent a sustainable alternative to produce fish with resistance to sea lice. This study explored the whole-transcriptome changes in Atlantic salmon families with contrasting resistance phenotypes against lice infestation. In total, 121 Atlantic salmon families were challenged with 35 copepodites per fish and ranked after 14 infestation days. Skin and head kidney tissue from the top two lowest (R) and highest (S) infested families were sequenced by the Illumina platform. Genome-scale transcriptome analysis showed different expression profiles between the phenotypes. Significant differences in chromosome modulation between the R and S families were observed in skin tissue. Notably, the upregulation of genes associated with tissue repairs, such as collagen and myosin, was found in R families. Furthermore, skin tissue of resistant families showed the highest number of genes associated with molecular functions such as ion binding, transferase, and cytokine activity, compared with the susceptible. Interestingly, lncRNAs differentially modulated in the R/S families are located near genes associated with immune response, which are upregulated in the R family. Finally, SNPs variations were identified in both salmon families, where the resistant ones showed the highest number of SNPs variations. Remarkably, among the genes with SPNs, genes associated with the tissue repair process were identified. This study reported Atlantic salmon chromosome regions exclusively expressed in R or S Atlantic salmon families’ phenotypes. Furthermore, due to the presence of SNPs and high expression of tissue repair genes in the resistant families, it is possible to suggest mucosal immune activation associated with the Atlantic salmon resistance to sea louse infestation.
Questioning ‘Informed Choice’ in Medical Screening: The Role of Neoliberal Rhetoric, Culture, and Social Context
Authors: Gram Emma , Jønsson Alexandra , Brodersen John , Damhus Christina
Published: April 2023

Participation in medical screening programs is presented as a voluntary decision that should be based on an informed choice. An informed choice is often emphasized to rely on three assumptions: (1) the decision-maker has available information about the benefits and harms, (2) the decision-maker can understand and interpret this information, and (3) the decision-maker can relate this information to personal values and preferences. In this article, we empirically challenge the concept of informed choice in the context of medical screening. We use document analysis to analyze and build upon findings and interpretations from previously published articles on participation in screening. We find that citizens do not receive neutral or balanced information about benefits and harms, yet are exposed to manipulative framing effects. The citizens have high expectations about the benefits of screening, and therefore experience cognitive strains when informed about the harm. We demonstrate that decisions about screening participation are informed by neoliberal arguments of personal responsibility and cultural healthism, and thus cannot be regarded as decisions based on individual values and preferences independently of context. We argue that the concept of informed choice serves as a power technology for people to govern themselves and can be considered an implicit verification of biopower.
Key Maternity Care Stakeholders’ Views on Midwives’ Professional Autonomy
Authors: Vermeulen Joeri , Buyl Ronald , Luyben Ans , Fleming Valerie , Fobelets Maaike
Published: April 2023

Advancement towards the professionalism of midwifery is closely linked to midwives’ professional autonomy. Although the perspectives of Belgian midwives on their professional autonomy have been studied, the views of other maternity care stakeholders are a blind spot. The aim of this study, therefore, was to explore maternity care stakeholders’ views on Belgian midwives’ professional autonomy. A qualitative exploratory study was performed using focus group interviews. A heterogenous group of 27 maternity care stakeholders participated. The variation between midwives, with different levels of autonomy, was reported. The analysis of the data resulted in five themes: (1) The autonomous midwife is adequately educated and committed to continuous professional further education, (2) The autonomous midwife is competent, (3) The autonomous midwife is experienced, (4) The autonomous midwife assures safe and qualitative care, and (5) The autonomous midwife collaborates with all stakeholders in maternity care. A maternity collaborative framework, where all maternity care professionals respect each other’s competences and autonomy, is crucial for providing safe and quality care. To achieve this, it is recommended to implement interprofessional education to establish strong foundations for interprofessional collaboration. Additionally, a regulatory body with supervisory powers can help ensure safe and quality care, while also supporting midwives’ professional autonomy and professionalisation.
The Roles of Trust and Its Antecedent Variables in Healthcare Consumers’ Acceptance of Online Medical Consultation during the COVID-19 Pandemic in China
Authors: Yan Mian , Zhang Meijuan , Kwok Alex Pak Ki , Zeng Haoyan , Li Yanfeng
Published: April 2023

Online medical consultation (OMC) is generating considerable interest among researchers and practitioners due to the mandatory quarantine measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. However, the acceptance rate of OMC has declined over time. This paper aims to empirically investigate OMC acceptance using a proposed research model by integrating the technology acceptance model (TAM) with trust and its antecedent variables. A quantitative self-administered cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data from 260 healthcare consumers. A partial least squares structural equation modeling method was used to examine the data. Results revealed that healthcare consumers’ behavioral intention was influenced by attitudes, while perceived usefulness and trust significantly influenced behavioral intention through attitude as a mediator. In addition, perceived risk, perceived privacy protection, network externalities, cognitive reputation, and interactivity directly influenced trust. Overall, the research model explained 50% of the variance in attitude and 71% of the variance in behavioral intention. The study’s findings should provide useful insights into making effective design, development, and implementation decisions for OMC services.
Gender and Age Differences in Anthropometric Characteristics of Taiwanese Older Adults Aged 65 Years and Older
Authors: Su Yan-Jhu , Ho Chien-Chang , Lee Po-Fu , Lin Chi-Fang , Hung Yi-Chuan , Chen Pin-Chun , Hung Chang-Tsen , Chang Yun-Chi
Published: April 2023

A previous study provided reference data on the age and gender distribution of anthropometric parameters in Taiwanese adults. However, there are very few large-scale analyses of anthropometric data of older adults in Taiwan. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to describe gender- and age-specific distributions of anthropometric measurements and anthropometry assessments of Taiwanese older adults. This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 22,389 adults aged 65 years or older (8017 males and 14,372 females) who participated in Taiwan’s National Physical Fitness Survey 2014–2015. All participants were recruited using stratified convenience sampling from 46 physical fitness test stations in 22 cities or counties in Taiwan. The anthropometric measurements and anthropometry assessments included in the present study were the assessments of height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). The results showed statistically significant differences in weight, height, WC, and WHR across all age groups among both male and female individuals aged 65 years and older in Taiwan. However, there was no significant difference in BMI and HC between males and females in all age groups. Anthropometric status provides an initial assessment of the overall health of the population. This study uses a representative population of Taiwanese older adults over the age of 65 for analysis and provides detailed information on anthropometric data distribution.
The Impact of Japan’s Soft Lockdown on Depressive Symptoms among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Ikeda Shinpei , Haga Hiroshi
Published: April 2023

This study investigated the impact of stay-at-home orders on depressive symptoms among community-dwelling older adults during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. A questionnaire was administered to older adults living in Ayase City, Kanagawa Prefecture, in July 2020, after the Japanese government declared its first COVID-19 state of emergency and stay-at-home order. In a sample of 1056 people, 69.1% were stay-at-home, and 30.9% were not. Those in the first group were more likely to be women, young-old, or non-workers. In addition, the patients tended to have more diseases. Of the participants, 39.3% had depressive symptoms and 60.7% did not. Multivariate analysis revealed that depressive symptoms were associated with increased frequency of being alone during the daytime (OR = 1.27; 95% CI = 1.07, 1.51), less face-to-face contact with friends or acquaintances (OR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.65, 0.94), increased contact with friends or acquaintances through email/LINE app (OR = 1.29; 95% CI = 1.03, 1.60), and refraining from going out (OR = 1.54; 95% CI = 1.12, 2.09). These results suggest that quarantine measures related to soft lockdowns may aggravate the mental health of community-dwelling older adults. Therefore, it is necessary to consider macro-level policies.
Increased CT Use and No Change in Injury Severity among Child Motor Vehicle Victims: A National Trauma Database Study in Japan
Authors: Ishii Wataru , Hitosugi Masahito , Kandori Kenji , Miyaguni Michitaro , Iizuka Ryoji
Published: April 2023

The number of fatalities associated with traffic accidents has been declining owing to improvements in vehicle safety performance and changes in the law. However, injuries in children can lead to social and economic losses. We examined 10-year changes in the characteristics of traffic trauma among pediatric motor vehicle passengers by analyzing data from the Japan Trauma Data Bank (JTDB). Among the 36,715 injured motor vehicle passengers under the age of 15 years who were registered in the JTDB from 2004 to 2019, we compared the groups injured during 2004–2007 (n = 94) and 2017–2019 (n = 203). Physiologically, the 2004–2007 group had a lower body temperature and Glasgow Coma Scale score as well as a higher mortality. Anatomical severity was higher in the 2004–2007 group for the head, face, and neck, according to the Abbreviated Injury Scale. In terms of treatment, only craniotomy as a primary surgery was significantly lower in the 2017–2019 group. The 2017–2019 group had significantly higher rates of receiving whole-body computed tomography (CT). Because the rate of performing CT has increased, with no changes in the injury severities of the trunk and extremities, limiting the number of CT examinations is suggested for pediatric motor vehicle passengers involved in road traffic collisions. The severity of trunk and extremity injuries has not improved in more than 10 years; further preventive measures for these injuries should be considered.
Acute and Long-Lasting Effects of Slow-Paced Breathing on Handball Team Coach’s Match Stress
Authors: Nikolovski Zoran , Vrdoljak Dario , Foretić Nikola , Perić Mia , Marić Dora , Fountoulakis Charalampos
Published: April 2023

Stress was previously defined as a response to any demand for change. These demands are noticeable during sport events, not only in athletes but also in coaches. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the influence of slow-paced breathing (SPB) on acute stress to handball coaches during official matches. One professional handball coach, aged 37 (height, 180 cm; weight, 80 kg), took part in the study. His salivary cortisol (C) concentration and alpha-amylase (AA) activity were measured, and his heart rate (HR) was monitored during six official matches. In the first three matches the SPB training protocol was not followed. From match four to match six, the coach performed SPB training every day and directly before the match. The decrease observed in AA was statistically significant with a large effect size (1.80). The trend of change in HR is visible and similar for matches with and without SPB. However, for SPB matches, there is a lower starting point compared to matches without SPB (89.81 ± 6.26 and 96.62 ± 8.10, respectively). Moreover, values of AA on SPB matches were smaller before the match (93.92 ± 15.89) compared to the same time point in non-SPB matches (115.30 ± 26.00). For AA, there is a significant effect size in the half-time (2.00) and after the match (−2.14). SPB matches showed a lower increase in AA. SPB might be used as one of the possible tools that could help coaches in achieving a desirable mental state during the match.
Simulation of Lower Limb Muscle Activation Using Running Shoes with Different Heel-to-Toe Drops Using Opensim
Authors: Quan Wenjing , Gao Linna , Xu Datao , Zhou Huiyu , Korim Tamás , Shao Shirui , Baker Julien S. , Gu Yaodong
Published: April 2023

Background: Although numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the acute effects of shoe drops on running kinematics and kinetic variables, their effects on muscle forces remain unknown. Thus, the primary aim of this study was to compare the muscle force, kinematics, and kinetic variables of habitually rearfoot runners with heel-to-toe drops of negative 8 mm shoes (minimalist shoes) and positive 9 mm shoes (normal shoes) during the running stance phase by using musculoskeletal modeling and simulation techniques. Methods: Experimental data of lower limb kinematics, ground reaction force, and muscle activation from 16 healthy runners with rearfoot strike patterns were collected and analyzed in OpenSim. Using Matlab, the statistical parameter mapping paired t-test was used to compare the joint angle, moment, and muscle force waveform. Results: The results revealed differences in the sagittal ankle and hip angles and sagittal knee moments between the different heel-to-toe drops of running shoes. Specifically, it showed that the negative 8 mm running shoes led to significantly smaller values than the positive 9 mm running shoes in terms of the angle of ankle dorsiflexion, ankle eversion, knee flexion, hip flexion, and hip internal and hip external rotation. The peak ankle dorsiflexion moment, ankle plantarflexion moment, ankle eversion moment, knee flexion moment, knee abduction moment, and knee internal rotation also decreased obviously with the minimalist running shoes, while the lateral gastrocnemius, Achilleas tendon, and extensor hallucis longus muscles were obviously greater in the minimalist shoes compared to normal shoes. The vastus medialis, vastus lateralis and extensor digitorum longus muscles force were smaller in the minimalist shoes. Conclusions: Runners may shift to a midfoot strike pattern when wearing negative running shoes. High muscle forces in the gastrocnemius lateral, Achilleas tendon, and flexor hallucis longus muscles may also indicate an increased risk of Achilleas tendonitis and ankle flexor injuries.
Psychosocial Care Needs, Personality Styles, and Coping Strategies of Mourners in a Rural Municipality in Spain: An Observational Study
Authors: Brito-Brito Pedro-Ruymán , Galdona-Luis Irayma , Rodríguez-Álvaro Martín , García-Hernández Alfonso-Miguel
Published: April 2023

Grieving is a natural, self-limiting process of adaptation to a new reality following a significant loss, either real or perceived, with a wide range of manifestations that have an impact on the health of the grieving individual. This study aims to analyse the relationships between interpersonal styles, coping strategies, and psychosocial care needs in a sample of mourners in a rural municipality. Initial hypothesis: there are associations between types of grief and psychosocial needs, as well as between types of grief and interpersonal styles or coping strategies. An observational, descriptive, analytical, cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample of 123 people. Female participants represented 64.2% of all participants. The mean age was 42.7 (±13.2) years, and 86.2% of participants reported continuing to suffer from the loss, with a 10.5% prevalence of maladaptive grieving. Regarding the associations identified between coping strategies and the interpersonal characteristics of the mourners, we found that those with the best coping scores described themselves as self-confident, boastful, jovial, forceful, gentle-hearted, self-assured, outgoing, and/or neighbourly. By contrast, mourners who obtained poorer coping scores self-identified as shy, unsparkling, timid, unsociable, unbold, and/or bashful. This provides a clinical profile linked to maladaptive grieving in which emotional, self-perception, and social problems are prevalent.
Ageing, Leisure Time Physical Activity and Health in Europe
Authors: Alvarez-Lourido Diego , Paniza Prados José Luis , Álvarez-Sousa Antonio
Published: April 2023

The goal of this article is to analyse leisure time physical activity (LTPA) and health-driven motivations to engage in such activity among elderly people in the European Union. We use as a base the recommendations of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the theory of the correlation between physical activity according to individual factors (age, gender, socio-economic status) and contextual factors (habitat, community infrastructures, the model of the welfare state of the country of residence). Data are taken from Eurobarometer 88.4. The Generalized Structural Equation Model (GSEM) methodology was used, with the STATA program. The results show that 65.3% of EU citizens over the age of 60 engage in some form of LTPA, that 40.4% do so for health reasons, and that only 32.3% engage in LTPA that meets the minimum guidelines set by the WHO. In addition, there are large differences based on individual and contextual characteristics. The following group was found to be those who practice the most: men, with high socio-economic status, belonging to the middle and upper social classes, living in rural areas where there is infrastructure for physical activity, and above all, in the countries of the Nordic model of social welfare.
Preharvest Multiple Applications of GABA Improve Quality Traits and Antioxidant Compounds of Pomegranate Fruit during Storage
Authors: Lorente-Mento José Manuel , Valero Daniel , Martínez-Romero Domingo , Badiche Fátima , Serrano María , Guillén Fabián
Published: April 2023

GABA (γ-Aminobutyric acid) is an amino acid with diverse effects on plant development, including delayed senescence in horticultural commodities. The main goal of this research was to investigate the impact of GABA applications to pomegranate trees on the ‘Mollar de Elche’ quality traits and antioxidant compounds during storage for 60 days at 10 °C. In the 2019 experiment, pomegranate trees received foliar sprays of GABA at 10-, 50- or 100-mM concentrations at three stages of fruit development. Pomegranates harvested from GABA-treated trees exhibited enhanced fruit firmness, titratable acidity, the red color of skin and aril, and higher levels of total phenolics and total and specific anthocyanins compared to those obtained from the control group. These quality traits were maintained at higher levels during 60 days of preservation at 10 °C, and the most important effects were observed for 100 mM dose. In a 2020 experiment, GABA was sprayed at a 100 mM dose, and results were confirmed, showing a retard of the ripening process in pomegranates from GABA-treated trees concerning controls for two months of storage and an extension of their shelf life (with optimal quality traits appreciated by consumers) from 30 to 60 days. Moreover, the increase in anthocyanin content due to GABA treatments resulted in redder fruits, which would appeal more to consumers and have improved health benefits.
Pesticide Exposure among Latinx Children in Rural Farmworker and Urban Non-Farmworker Communities: Associations with Locality and Season
Authors: Arcury Thomas A. , Chen Haiying , Quandt Sara A. , Talton Jennifer W. , Anderson Kim A. , Scott Richard P. , Summers Phillip , Laurienti Paul J.
Published: April 2023

This study uses repeated measures to document the pesticide exposure of rural and urban Latinx children (age eight at baseline), and to compare these children in terms of the frequency and concentration of their exposure to a large set of pesticides, accounting for season. We used silicone wristbands worn for one week up to ten times at quarterly intervals from 2018 to 2022 to assess pesticide exposure in children from rural farmworker (n = 75) and urban non-farmworker (n = 61) families. We determined the detection and concentrations (ng/g) of 72 pesticides and pesticide degradation products in the wristbands using gas chromatography electron capture detection and gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The most frequently detected pesticide classes were organochlorines, pyrethroids, and organophosphates. Controlling for season, organochlorine or phenylpyrazole detections were less likely for rural children than for urban children. Detections of organochlorines, pyrethroids, or organophosphates were lower in spring and summer versus winter. Controlling for season, urban children had greater concentrations of organochlorines, while rural children had greater concentrations of pyrethroids and Chlorpyrifos. Pesticide concentrations were lower in winter and spring compared with summer and fall. These results further document that pesticides are ubiquitous in the living environment for children in vulnerable, immigrant communities.
Examining Disparities in Current E-Cigarette Use among U.S. Adults before and after the WHO Declaration of the COVID-19 Pandemic in March 2020
Authors: Mamudu Hadii M. , Adzrago David , Dada Oluwabunmi , Odame Emmanuel A. , Ahuja Manik , Awasthi Manul , Weierbach Florence M. , Williams Faustine , Stewart David W. , Paul Timir K.
Published: April 2023

This paper aims to estimate the prevalence of e-cigarette use before and after the COVID-19 pandemic declaration and to delineate disparities in use across subpopulations. Data were derived from the 2020 Health Information National Trends Survey (N = 3865) to conduct weighted multivariable logistic regression and marginal analyses. The overall prevalence of current e-cigarette use increased from 4.79% to 8.63% after the COVID-19 pandemic declaration. Furthermore, non-Hispanic Black people and Hispanic people had lower odds of current e-cigarette use than non-Hispanic White people, but no significant differences were observed between groups before the pandemic. Compared to heterosexual participants, sexual minority (SM) participants had higher odds of current e-cigarette use after the declaration, with insignificant differences before. People who had cardiovascular disease conditions, relative to those without, had higher odds of current e-cigarette use after the declaration, but no group differences were found before the declaration. The marginal analyses showed that before and after the pandemic declaration, SM individuals had a significantly higher probability of using e-cigarettes compared to heterosexual individuals. These findings suggest the importance of adopting a subpopulation approach to understand and develop initiatives to address substance use, such as e-cigarettes, during pandemics and other public health emergencies.
Elementary Classroom Views of Nature Are Associated with Lower Child Externalizing Behavior Problems
Authors: Pearson Amber L. , Brown Catherine D. , Reuben Aaron , Nicholls Natalie , Pfeiffer Karin A. , Clevenger Kimberly A.
Published: April 2023

Exposure to nature views has been associated with diverse mental health and cognitive capacity benefits. Yet, much of this evidence was derived in adult samples and typically only involves residential views of nature. Findings from studies with children suggest that when more greenness is available at home or school, children have higher academic performance and have expedited attention restoration, although most studies utilize coarse or subjective assessments of exposure to nature and largely neglect investigation among young children. Here, we investigated associations between objectively measured visible nature at school and children’s behavior problems (attention and externalizing behaviors using the Brief Problem Monitor Parent Form) in a sample of 86 children aged seven to nine years old from 15 classrooms across three schools. Images of classroom windows were used to quantify overall nature views and views of specific nature types (sky, grass, tree, shrub). We fitted separate Tobit regression models to test associations between classroom nature views and attention and externalizing behaviors, accounting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, residential deprivation score, and residential nature views (using Google Street View imagery). We found that higher levels of visible nature from classroom windows were associated with lower externalizing behavior problem scores, after confounder adjustment. This relationship was consistent for visible trees, but not other nature types. No significant associations were detected for attention problems. This initial study suggests that classroom-based exposure to visible nature, particularly trees, could benefit children’s mental health, with implications for landscape and school design.