bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated with Mental Health among International Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic in South Korea
Authors: Kim Hae Ran , Kim Eun Jung
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate mental health problems among international students in South Korean universities during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to identify the factors that affect their mental health. A total of 488 international students living in South Korea participated in a web-based survey. The questionnaire was created using the Google Forms platform, and a link to the questionnaire was shared through social media. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to analyze the data. The prevalence rates of sleep problems, anxiety, and depression among international students were 47.1%, 39.6%, and 49%, respectively. The prevalence of mental health problems was higher among participants who were male, living with someone, residents of a rural area, and earning a higher income. The following variables were found to contribute to the prevalence of mental health problems: undergraduate student status, good understanding of the Korean language, longer hours of media usage, and experiences related to COVID-19 infection. A collaborative effort between the government and universities to manage the mental health of international students could promote the mental health of these students.
Factors Influencing Workplace Health Promotion Interventions for Workers in the Semiconductor Industry According to Risk Levels of Chronic Disease
Authors: Song Yun-Kyoung , Choi Boyoon , Kim Kyungim , Park Hyun Jin , Oh Jung Mi
Published: November 2021

(1) Background: This study aimed to analyze the risk of chronic diseases including hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia in workers of a semiconductor manufacturing company and the factors associated with their participation in workplace health promotion (WHP) programs. (2) Methods: Subjects were workers in a semiconductor and liquid crystal display company in South Korea who had undergone regular health checkups. Data from regular health checkups and WHP interventions were analyzed. Health risk was classified based on the diagnosed disease, in-house classification criteria, and pooled cardiovascular risk score. (3) Results: The baseline characteristics of 39,073 participants included the following: male, 67.8%; between 30 and 40 years of age, 74.1%; <2 h of physical activities, 65.9%. Workers at risk of chronic diseases accounted for 22.2%, and 20.1% were suspicious cases of chronic diseases. Body mass index, and cholesterol level were relatively high in workers with the burden of chronic diseases. The participation rate in WHP programs was 28.8% in a high-risk group among workers at risk of chronic diseases. More participation was shown in male, older age groups, production work type, and single-person household. (4) Conclusions: Because of the low participation rate in WHP activities among workers with the burden of chronic diseases, it is necessary to establish measures to encourage their participation.
Caregiver Perceptions of Environmental Facilitators and Barriers to Healthy Eating and Active Living during the Summer: Results from the Project SWEAT Sub-Study
Authors: Hopkins Laura C. , Sharn Amy R. , Remley Daniel , Schier Heather , Olak Regan , Drakeford Dorsena , Pannell Cara , Gunther Carolyn
Published: November 2021

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine caregiver perceptions of summertime neighborhood-level environmental barriers and facilitators to healthy eating and active living in their elementary-age racial minority children. Methods: Caregivers with students in the prekindergarten–fifth grade were recruited from two schools located in low-income urban neighborhoods of Columbus, OH, with a predominantly Black population. Participants engaged in the research portion of the Healthy Eating Active Living: Mapping Attribute using Participatory Photographic Surveys (HEALth MAPPSTM) protocol, which included (1) orientation; (2) photographing and geotagging facilitators and barriers to HEALth on daily routes; (3) in-depth interview (IDI) discussing images and routes taken; (4) focus groups (FG). IDIs and FGs were transcribed verbatim. Analyses were guided by grounded theory and interpretive phenomenology and were coded by researchers (n = 3), who used comparative analysis to develop a codebook and determine major themes. Results: A total of 10 caregivers enrolled and 9 completed the IDIs. Five caregivers participated in focus groups. A majority (77.8%, n = 7) of caregivers identified as Black, female (88.9%, n = 8), and low income (55.6%, n = 5). IDI and FG themes included (1) walkway infrastructure crucial for healthy eating and active living; (2) scarce accessibility to healthy, affordable foods; (3) multiple abandoned properties; (4) unsafe activity near common neighborhood routes. Conclusions: Caregivers perceived multiple neighborhood-level barriers to healthy eating and activity during the summer months when school is closed. Findings from this study provide initial insights into environmental determinants of unhealthy summer weight gain in a sample of predominantly racial minority school-age children from low-income households.
Influence of a Survival Swimming Training Programme on Water Safety Knowledge, Attitudes and Skills: A Randomized Controlled Trial among Young Adults in Sri Lanka
Authors: Ekanayaka Jeewanthika , Geok Chan Kim , Matthews Bernadette , Dharmaratne Samath D.
Published: November 2021

Drowning among young adults is high in Sri Lanka. Water safety education is a recommended strategy for drowning prevention but is often overlooked for young adults. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an adapted educational intervention, “Swim for Safety” on improving water safety knowledge, attitudes and survival swimming skills among undergraduates (19–28 years) in Sri Lanka. This study employed a parallel-group, two-arm randomized controlled trial design. The intervention group (n = 78) received a face-to-face, 12-lesson education programme, and the control group (n = 78) received a brochure and weekly mobile phone messages for six consecutive weeks. Baseline, post-intervention and three-month follow-up knowledge, attitudes and skills were evaluated. Knowledge and attitudes were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire and skills were evaluated following a skills assessment protocol. In total 116 participants, 60 intervention group and 56 control group, completed the study. At baseline there were no differences between groups in median scores of water safety knowledge, attitudes and survival swimming skills. The intervention group demonstrated statistically significant increases in median water safety knowledge, attitudes and survival swimming skill scores compared with the control group, following the intervention and maintained at three-month follow-up (p < 0.05). The adapted Swim for Safety programme significantly improved water safety knowledge, attitudes, and survival swimming skills among young adults in Sri Lanka. Therefore, it is recommended that the SfS programme be implemented widely to prevent drowning in young adults.
Parents’ Willingness to Invest in Primary Oral Health Prevention for Their Preschool Children
Authors: van Spreuwel Peggy C.J.M. , Jerković-Ćosić Katarina , van Loveren Cor , van der Heijden Geert J.M.G.
Published: November 2021

There is growing evidence for the beneficial effects of starting oral health prevention early in life. Preventing dental caries in very young children requires considerable investment from parents. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to explore parents’ willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to invest in time (WTIT) for primary oral health prevention in preschool children and describe whether these are related to the parents’ demographic, socio-economic and behavioural characteristics. In a convenience sample of parents of preschool children aged six months to four years (n = 142), data were collected with questionnaires. On average, parents were willing to pay EUR15.84 per month, invest time for 1.9 dental visits per year, and spend 2.4 min per day brushing their child’s teeth. A higher education level of the mother and having a child older than two were associated with a higher WTIT in brushing minutes per day (p = 0.03). In addition, parents who brushed their child’s teeth more frequently were also more willing to invest in brushing minutes (p < 0.01) and money (p < 0.01). Findings emphasise the importance of early oral health interventions and the need to increase awareness of primary prevention’s importance in maintaining healthy teeth and reducing possibly oral health inequalities.
Positive Association between Indoor Gaseous Air Pollution and Obesity: An Observational Study in 60 Households
Authors: Chen Jia-Kun , Wu Charlene , Su Ta-Chen
Published: November 2021

This study aims to analyze whether exposure to indoor air pollution affects obesity. In our research, we recruited 127 participants, with an average age of 43.30 ± 15.38 years old, residing in 60 households. We monitored indoor air quality for 24 h, and conducted both questionnaire surveys and collected serum samples for analysis, to assess the relationship between indoor air pollutant exposure and obesity. After adjusting for demographic characteristics, the results showed that CO2 exposure is positively associated with being overweight and with a higher risk of being abdominally obese. Exposures to CO and formaldehyde were also positively associated with being overweight. IQR increase in TVOC was positively associated with increases in the risk of a high BMI, being abdominally obese and having a high body fat percentage. Two-pollutant models demonstrate that TVOCs presented the strongest risks associated with overweightness. We concluded that persistent exposure to indoor gaseous pollutants increases the risk of overweightness and obesity, as indicated by the positive association with BMI, abdominal obesity, and percentage body fat. TVOCs display the strongest contribution to obesity.
Participants’ Perspective of Engaging in a Gym-Based Health Service Delivered Secondary Stroke Prevention Program after TIA or Mild Stroke
Authors: Sammut Maria , Haracz Kirsti , English Coralie , Shakespeare David , Crowfoot Gary , Nilsson Michael , Janssen Heidi
Published: November 2021

People who have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mild stroke have a high risk of recurrent stroke. Secondary prevention programs providing support for meeting physical activity recommendations may reduce this risk. Most evidence for the feasibility and effectiveness of secondary stroke prevention arises from programs developed and tested in research institute settings with limited evidence for the acceptability of programs in ‘real world’ community settings. This qualitative descriptive study explored perceptions of participation in a secondary stroke prevention program (delivered by a community-based multidisciplinary health service team within a community gym) by adults with TIA or mild stroke. Data gathered via phone-based semi-structured interviews midway through the program, and at the end of the program, were analyzed using constructivist grounded theory methods. A total of 51 interviews from 30 participants produced two concepts. The first concept, “What it offered me”, describes critical elements that shape participants’ experience of the program. The second concept, “What I got out of it” describes perceived benefits of program participation. Participants perceived that experiences with peers in a health professional-led group program, held within a community-based gym, supported their goal of changing behaviour. Including these elements during the development of health service strategies to reduce recurrent stroke risk may strengthen program acceptability and subsequent effectiveness.
Erratum: Suwattipong et al. Comparison of Point-of-Care Testing and Hospital-Based Methods in Screening for Potential Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Abnormal Glucose Regulation in a Dental Setting. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18, 6459
Authors: Suwattipong Muneedej , Thuramonwong Thitima , Tantipoj Chanita , Fuangtharnthip Pornpoj , Thanakun Supanee , Khovidhunkit Weerapan , Khovidhunkit Siribang-on Piboonniyom
Published: November 2021

In the original article [...]
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Prevalence among Participants of Woodstock Rock Festival in Poland Based on Rome IV Criteria Questionnaire
Authors: Palma Joanna , Antoniewicz Justyna , Borecki Krzysztof , Tejchman Karol , Skonieczna-Żydecka Karolina , Maciejewska-Markiewicz Dominika , Ryterska Karina , Komorniak Natalia , Czerwińska-Rogowska Maja , Wolska Anna , Mruk-Mazurkiewicz Honorata , Gudan Anna , Mazur Tomasz , Mijal Przemysław , Budawski Robert , Stachowska Zofia , Marlicz Wojciech , Stachowska Ewa
Published: November 2021

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder (FGID), in which etiology and pathogenesis are not fully explored. There is an ongoing need for more population studies adhering to new ROME IV criteria. In the current study, which follows our previous investigation among participants of the Woodstock Rock Festival in Poland, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of IBS and its relation to age, gender, education, and IBS type. Methods: Rome IV criteria questionnaire was used to assess abdominal complaints of 386 participants of the Woodstock Rock festival 2018. Results: Analyzed data revealed that Rome IV criteria were met by 42 participants (11.41%), 11 men and 31 women (p = 0.0028), with following types of IBS: IBS-M (mixed form) 55%, IBS-D (with diarrhea) 33%, IBS-U (unclassified) 10%, IBS-C (with constipation) 2%. No statistically significant correlation between IBS prevalence and age, gender, or education (p > 0.05) was found. Conclusions: The prevalence of IBS among major rock festival participants in Poland was high. Women met the criteria more often than men, which is consistent with global epidemiology for many years. Among participants of the Woodstock Rock Festival, the most frequent subtype was IBS-M, the rarest—IBS-C. There is a need of conducting cohort studies in bigger groups in our population.
Metabarcoding Analysis of Harmful Algal Bloom Species in the Western Pacific Seamount Regions
Authors: Xu Qing , Wang Chunzhi , Xu Kuidong , Chen Nansheng
Published: November 2021

The Western Pacific is the most oligotrophic sea on Earth, with numerous seamounts. However, the plankton diversity and biogeography of the Western Pacific in general and the seamount regions in particular remains largely unexplored. In this project, we quantitatively analyzed the composition and distribution patterns of plankton species in the Western Pacific seamount regions by applying metabarcoding analysis. We identified 4601 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) representing 34 classes in seven protist phyla/divisions in the Western Pacific seamount regions, among which Dinoflagellata was by far the most dominant division. Among the 336 annotated phytoplankton species (including species in Dinoflagellata), we identified 36 harmful algal bloom (HAB) species, many of which displayed unique spatial distribution patterns in the Western Pacific seamount regions. This study was the first attempt in applying ASV-based metabarcoding analysis in studying phytoplankton and HAB species in the Western Pacific seamount regions, which may facilitate further research on the potential correlation between HABs in the Western Pacific seamount regions and coastal regions.
Fluoride Exposure through Different Drinking Water Sources in a Contaminated Basin in Guanajuato, Mexico: A Deterministic Human Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Farías Paulina , Estevez-García Jesús Alejandro , Onofre-Pardo Erika Noelia , Pérez-Humara María Luisa , Rojas-Lima Elodia , Álamo-Hernández Urinda , Rocha-Amador Diana Olivia
Published: November 2021

Water fluoride levels above the World Health Organization’s guideline (1.5 mg/L), common in overexploited aquifers, represent a health hazard. Our objective was to assess the health risks posed by exposure to fluoride in different drinking water sources in a contaminated basin in Mexico. Fluoride was measured in mutual drinking water sources and in the urine of 39 children and women. Risks were estimated through hazard quotient (HQ) by drinking water source. Dental fluorosis was assessed in the children. Mean fluoride water concentrations (mg/L) were: well, 4.2; waterhole, 2.7; bottled, 2.1; rainwater, 0.4. The mean urinary fluoride concentrations (specific gravity adjusted) were 2.1 mg/L and 3.2 mg/L in children and women, respectively. Our multiple linear regression model showed children’s urinary fluoride concentrations increased 0.96 mg/L for every 1 mg/L increase in water fluoride (p < 0.001). Dental fluorosis was diagnosed in 82% of the children, and their HQ according to drinking water source was: well, 1.5; waterhole, 1.1; bottled, 0.8; harvested rainwater, 0.3. The pervasive dental fluorosis indicates a toxic past fluoride exposure; urinary fluoride levels and HQs indicate high exposure and current health risks for most children. Drinking harvested rainwater will likely prevent most of the local fluoride exposure.
Sense of Coherence in Managers during COVID-19 and the New World of Work: A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Mayer Claude-Hélène , Wegerle Cemonn , Oosthuizen Rudolf M.
Published: November 2021

During COVID-19, the working world has changed inevitably, and many managers experience extreme strain and stress. This study determines how managers cope with the changes during COVID-19 from a positive psychology and salutogenic perspective. It employs a hermeneutical research design and an interpretivist paradigm by using a mixed-method research approach in which managers’ sense of coherence (SOC) is investigated quantitatively through the 29-item Life-Orientation scale and qualitatively through semi-structured interviews. Purposeful and snowball sampling techniques are used. The sample consists of 17 managers. Data were collected in different organizations within South Africa and analysed through content analysis, linking quantitative and qualitative data in a holistic, integrated and complex way. In terms of the quantitative findings, the managers scored at the medium and higher end of the SOC-scale in comprehensibility, followed by manageability and finally meaningfulness. Male managers in the age group 47–57 scored highest. Female and younger managers scored lower on average. Lowest scores in comprehensibility and manageability were scored by a young female manager, while in meaningfulness the oldest male participant scored lowest. The qualitative findings show that high scoring SOC managers apply complex thoughts to the present and future workplace scenario. Individuals with lower SOC scores do not present as much knowledge, complex thinking and argumentation structures during the interview in comprehensibility scores as high scoring SOC managers, yet still acquire resources to manage the workplace (manageability). High meaningfulness scores are associated with creating meaningful workplace interaction (human–human and machine–human), knowledge distribution through technology, impactfulness, experiencing the job as meaningful, including helping others, and achievements. Managers have a complex view of the world and findings show the complex connections of a high/low SOC scores and the managers’ explorations and systemic understanding regarding their managerial world. Conclusions and recommendations for theory and practice are given.
Patient Safety Silence and Safety Nursing Activities: Mediating Effects of Moral Sensitivity
Authors: Jeong Hyo-eun , Nam Keum-hee , Kim Heui-yeoung , Son Yu-jung
Published: November 2021

Among the factors that threaten patient safety and quality of care due to the diversification and complication of hospital environments, nurses play a pivotal role regarding patient safety in the clinical setting. This study investigates the mediating effects of moral sensitivity on the relationship between nurses’ patient safety silence and safety nursing activities and contributes to developing strategies. Nurses (n = 120) employed for at least one year in two university hospitals in Korea between 1 September and 30 October 2020 participated in the study. Data were analyzed using t-test, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and multiple regression using the SPSS/WIN 22.0 program. Additionally, the mediating effects were analyzed using Baron and Kenny’s method and bootstrapping. Safety nursing activities were significantly negatively correlated with patient safety silence and significantly positively correlated with moral sensitivity. Patient safety silence was significantly negatively correlated with moral sensitivity. Moral sensitivity partially mediated the relationship between patient safety silence and safety nursing activities. There is a need to develop and implement individualized ethical programs that enhance moral sensitivity in nurses to promote patient safety nursing activities.
The Effects of Repeated Thermal Stress on the Physiological Parameters of Young Physically Active Men Who Regularly Use the Sauna: A Multifactorial Assessment
Authors: Podstawski Robert , Borysławski Krzysztof , Pomianowski Andrzej , Krystkiewicz Wioletta , Boraczyński Tomasz , Mosler Dariusz , Wąsik Jacek , Jaszczur-Nowicki Jarosław
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of thermal stress (TS) on changes in blood biochemical parameters and fluid electrolyte levels in young adult men with moderate and high levels of physical activity. Thirty men (22.67 ± 2.02 years) were exposed to four 12-min sauna sessions (temperature: 90–91 °C; relative humidity: 14–16%) with four 6-min cool-down breaks. The evaluated variables were anthropometric, physiological, and hematological characteristics. The mean values of HRavg (102.5 bpm) were within the easy effort range, whereas HRpeak (143.3 bpm) values were within the very difficult effort range. A significant increase was noted in pO2 (p < 0.001), total cholesterol (p < 0.008), HDL (p < 0.006) and LDL cholesterol (p < 0.007). Significant decreases were observed in the SBP (by 9.7 mmHg), DBP (by 6.9 mmHg) (p < 0.001), pH (p < 0.001), aHCO3- (p < 0.005), sHCO3- (p < 0.003), BE (ecf) (p < 0.022), BE (B), ctCO2 (for both p < 0.005), glucose (p < 0.001), and LA (p < 0.036). High 72-min TS did not induce significant changes in the physiological parameters of young and physically active men who regularly use the sauna, excluding significant loss of body mass. We can assume that relatively long sauna sessions do not disturb homeostasis and are safe for the health of properly prepared males.
Identifying Frequently Used NANDA-I Nursing Diagnoses, NOC Outcomes, NIC Interventions, and NNN Linkages for Nursing Home Residents in Korea
Authors: Shin Juh Hyun , Choi Gui Yun , Lee Jiyeon
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to identify the terminologies of NANDA-I, NOC, NIC, and NNN linkages that have been used for nursing home (NH) residents. This study used a retrospective descriptive design. Data accrued from 57 registered nurses (RNs) in 25 Korean NHs. The RNs randomly selected one resident and assessed for applied NANDA-I, NOC, and NIC from the previous 7 days by reviewing nursing charts and records. Finally, the data of 57 residents in 25 NHs were collected. Results: We identified seven NNN linkages: risk for falls–fall prevention behavior–fall prevention; self-care deficit: bathing/hygiene–self-care: activities of daily living (ADL)–self-care assistance: bathing/hygiene; impaired memory–memory–cognitive stimulation; chronic confusion–neurological status: consciousness–medication management; chronic confusion–memory–medication management; impaired walking–mobility–exercise promotion: strength training; and impaired walking–ambulation–exercise promotion: strength training. The identified core NANDA-I, NOC, NIC, and NNN linkages for NH residents from this study provide a scope of practice of RNs working in NHs.
Effects of Exposure to Indoor Fine Particulate Matter on Atopic Dermatitis in Children
Authors: Kim Young-Min , Kim Jihyun , Ha Seoung-Chul , Ahn Kangmo
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to investigate the short-term effect of exposure to indoor fine particulate matter (PM2.5) on atopic dermatitis (AD) symptoms in children. Sixty-four children (40 boys and 24 girls) with moderate-to-severe AD, aged under 18 years were enrolled in the study. They were followed up from February 2019 through November 2020. Exposure to indoor PM2.5 in each household of the enrolled children and their AD symptoms were measured daily. The generalized linear mixed model was utilized for statistical analysis. Subdivision analysis was performed by stratifying the patients by age, sex, season, severity, the presence of family allergic diseases, sensitization, and indoor environment conditions including temperature and relative humidity. A total of 9,321 person-days of AD symptom data were collected. The average PM2.5 concentration was 28.7 ± 24.3 µg/m3, with the highest value in winter (47.1 ± 29.6 µg/m3). The overall effect of PM2.5 on AD symptoms was not statistically significant. However, an increase of 10 µg/m3 in indoor PM2.5 concentration increased AD symptom scores by 16.5% (95% CI: 6.5, 27.5) in spring and12.6% (95% CI: 4.3, 21.5) in winter, 6.7% (95% CI: 2.3, 11.3) at indoor temperatures of <25.5 °C, and by 15.0% (95% CI: 3.5, 27.7) with no use of an air purifier. The harmful effect of PM2.5 in boys, in children aged ≥6 years, and in children with inhalant allergen sensitization was significant, showing an increase in AD symptoms of 4.9% (95% CI: 1.4, 8.6), 12.0% (95% CI: 5.3, 19.1), and 7.0% (95% CI: 1.9, 12.3) per 10 µg/m3 of PM2.5, respectively. Furthermore, children with inhalant allergen sensitization plus severe symptoms (SCORing Atopic Dermatitis, SCORAD ≥ 30.7, median value) showed more harmful effects from exposure to PM2.5 (15.7% (95% CI: 4.5, 28.1) increase in AD symptom scores per 10 µg/m3 of PM2.5 increase). Indoor exposure to PM2.5 exacerbated AD symptoms in children in spring, winter, and at indoor temperatures of < 25.5 °C. In particular, this harmful effect was prominent in children with inhalant allergen sensitization and severe symptoms. Minimizing exposure to indoor PM2.5 is needed for the proper management of AD.
Development of IoT-Based Particulate Matter Monitoring System for Construction Sites
Authors: Kim Hyunsik , Tae Sungho , Zheng Pengfei , Kang Geonuk , Lee Hanseung
Published: November 2021

Particulate matters (PMs) generated on construction sites can pose serious health risks to field workers and residents living near construction sites. PMs are generated in a wide range of locations; therefore, they must be managed in real time at various locations within construction sites for practical management of the PMs. However, no such systems exist currently. Therefore, this study aims to develop a system that can manage PMs in real time at multiple locations in a construction site using the Internet of Things technology. Accordingly, measuring instrument, network, and program services were developed as system components, while considering the characteristics of construction sites, and the construction site PM monitoring system was developed by integrating these components. Finally, performance certification and field application tests were performed to verify the developed system. The construction site PM monitoring system (CPMS) achieved grade 1 for reproducibility, relative precision, and data acquisition rate, and grade 2 for accuracy and coefficient of determination. Thus, it received a performance certification of grade 2, in total. In particular, regarding accuracy, which is a shortcoming of the light-scattering method and represents the accuracy of measurements, the CPMS was found to have an accuracy of 74.2%.
Spatial Variations of Indoor Air Chemicals in an Apartment Unit and Personal Exposure of Residents
Authors: Sakamoto Hironari , Uchiyama Shigehisa , Isobe Tomohiko , Kunugita Naoki , Ogura Hironao , Nakayama Shoji F.
Published: November 2021

Indoor air quality (IAQ) can greatly affect health in people spending much time indoors. However, the influence of IAQ on personal exposure to chemical compounds in Japan remains poorly investigated. Hence, this study aimed to clarify this influence thoroughly within one apartment. We surveyed the concentrations of 61 chemical compounds in the air in nine different spaces within an apartment unit, as well as the personal exposure of two residents in Japan. Using three kinds of diffusive samplers, this study was conducted continuously for 7 days in summer and winter. Health risks were evaluated by calculating the margin of exposure (MOE) using the measured concentrations. Some chemical concentrations showed large spatial variations and the personal exposure concentrations of these compounds also differed among residents. According to the calculated MOE, the chemicals with the highest health risk were acrolein, p-dichlorobenzene, and acetaldehyde in summer and acrolein, nitrogen dioxide, formic acid, p-dichlorobenzene, and benzene in winter. The IAQ of the house could be divided in two, and the IAQ in the space where residents spent much time (i.e., bedroom) highly affected each of the residents’ exposure. Investigating chemical concentrations in multiple spaces (including bedroom and living room) is necessary to understand the effect of IAQ on personal exposure.
The Impact of Large Mobile Air Purifiers on Aerosol Concentration in Classrooms and the Reduction of Airborne Transmission of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Duill Finn F. , Schulz Florian , Jain Aman , Krieger Leve , van Wachem Berend , Beyrau Frank
Published: November 2021

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, an increased risk of infection by virus-containing aerosols indoors is assumed. Especially in schools, the duration of stay is long and the number of people in the rooms is large, increasing the risk of infection. This problem particularly affects schools without pre-installed ventilation systems that are equipped with filters and/or operate with fresh air. Here, the aerosol concentration is reduced by natural ventilation. In this context, we are investigating the effect of large mobile air purifiers (AP) with HEPA filters on particle concentration and their suitability for classroom use in a primary school in Germany. The three tested APs differ significantly in their air outlet characteristics. Measurements of the number of particles, the particle size distribution, and the CO2 concentration were carried out in the classroom with students (April/May 2021) and with an aerosol generator without students. In this regard, the use of APs leads to a substantial reduction of aerosol particles in the considered particle size range of 0.178–17.78 µm. At the same time, the three APs are found to have differences in their particle decay rate, noise level, and flow velocity. In addition to the measurements, the effect of various influencing parameters on the potential inhaled particle dose was investigated using a calculation model. The parameters considered include the duration of stay, particle concentration in exhaled air, respiratory flow rate, virus lifetime, ventilation interval, ventilation efficiency, AP volumetric flow, as well as room size. Based on the resulting effect diagrams, significant recommendations can be derived for reducing the risk of infection from virus-laden aerosols. Finally, the measurements were compared to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling, as such tools can aid the optimal placement and configuration of APs and can be used to study the effect of the spread of aerosols from a source in the classroom.
The Psychological and Behavioral Patterns of Online Psychological Help-Seekers before and during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Text Mining-Based Longitudinal Ecological Study
Authors: Huang Yinghui , Liu Hui , Zhang Lin , Li Shen , Wang Weijun , Ren Zhihong , Zhou Zongkui , Ma Xueyao
Published: November 2021

Online mental health service (OMHS) platforms have contributed significantly to the public’s mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in China. However, it remains unclear why the public used OMHS platforms for psychological help-seeking (PHS) behavior and how PHS behavior varied across different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the ecological PHS behavior data from two OMHS platforms, we extracted population, psychological problems, and influential factors of PHS behavior by text mining and time series analysis methods. Seven top-ranked psychological problems (i.e., depression and anxiety, lack of interest, suicidal tendencies, social phobia, feelings of being worried and afraid, suffering, anger) and seven influential factors (i.e., interpersonal relationships, love, family, work, psychotherapy, personal characteristics, marriage) were found. The online PHS behaviors related to different psychological problems and influential factors remained a growing trend before 2020 and have been increasing significantly due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Four main stages were found during the pandemic according to the changes in the online PHS population: sharp growth, significant decline, slight rebound, and slow decline. This study identified large-scale, spontaneous PHS behaviors among the online public during the COVID-19 pandemic and the various psychological problems and influential factors that varied across different stages of the pandemic, suggesting that the government and health practitioners should adopt effective policies and strategies to prevent and intervene in mental health problems for the online public.
Moral Identity and Attitudes towards Doping in Sport: Whether Perception of Fair Play Matters
Authors: Sukys Saulius , Tilindiene Ilona , Majauskiene Daiva , Karanauskiene Diana
Published: November 2021

Research evidence suggests that athletes’ attitudes towards banned substances are among the strongest predictors of intention to use or actual practice of doping. Previous research has found that personal morality was negatively related to doping attitudes. However, less is known about the role of athletes’ perceptions of fair play on their attitudes towards doping. First, we examined whether moral identity was associated with athletes’ attitudes towards doping and whether their perceptions of fair play mediated this relationship. The second purpose was to determine whether these associations differed among non-athletes. Overall, 365 university students (49.9% males, 55.3% athletes) participated in this study (mean age 22.02, SD = 6.58). They completed questionnaires measuring the aforementioned variables. The results showed that athletes’ moral identity and endorsement of fair play were negatively associated with their attitudes towards doping. The mediation analyses showed that the effect of moral identity on attitudes towards doping was partially mediated by perceptions of fair play (indirect effect, β = −0.10, p < 0.05). Unlike student athletes, non-athletes’ moral identity negatively predicted attitudes towards doping only indirectly, via fair play perception (indirect effect, β = −0.08, p < 0.05). The study provides insights into how a person’s morality and perception of moral values in sport may act as factors related to doping in sport. The practical implications for the promotion of anti-doping attitudes for athletes and separately for student non-athletes were provided together with future research perspectives.
Hsp90 Inhibition: A Promising Therapeutic Approach for ARSACS
Authors: Nethisinghe Suran , Abeti Rosella , Kesavan Maheswaran , Wigley W. Christian , Giunti Paola
Published: November 2021

Autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in the SACS gene, encoding the 520 kDa modular protein sacsin, which comprises multiple functional sequence domains that suggest a role either as a scaffold in protein folding or in proteostasis. Cells from patients with ARSACS display a distinct phenotype including altered organisation of the intermediate filament cytoskeleton and a hyperfused mitochondrial network where mitochondrial respiration is compromised. Here, we used vimentin bundling as a biomarker of sacsin function to test the therapeutic potential of Hsp90 inhibition with the C-terminal-domain-targeted compound KU-32, which has demonstrated mitochondrial activity. This study shows that ARSACS patient cells have significantly increased vimentin bundling compared to control, and this was also present in ARSACS carriers despite them being asymptomatic. We found that KU-32 treatment significantly reduced vimentin bundling in carrier and patient cells. We also found that cells from patients with ARSACS were unable to maintain mitochondrial membrane potential upon challenge with mitotoxins, and that the electron transport chain function was restored upon KU-32 treatment. Our preliminary findings presented here suggest that targeting the heat-shock response by Hsp90 inhibition alleviates vimentin bundling and may represent a promising area for the development of therapeutics for ARSACS.
Mori Ramulus Suppresses Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Damage in Murine Myoblast C2C12 Cells through Activation of AMPK
Authors: Park Cheol , Ji Seon Yeong , Lee Hyesook , Choi Sung Hyun , Kwon Chan-Young , Kim So Young , Lee Eun Tag , Choo Sung Tae , Kim Gi-Young , Choi Yung Hyun , Kim Mi Ryeo
Published: November 2021

Mori Ramulus, the dried twigs of Morus alba L., has been attracting attention for its potent antioxidant activity, but its role in muscle cells has not yet been elucidated. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of aqueous extracts of Mori Ramulus (AEMR) against oxidative stress caused by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in C2C12 mouse myoblasts, and in dexamethasone (DEX)-induced muscle atrophied models. Our results showed that AEMR rescued H2O2-induced cell viability loss and the collapse of the mitochondria membrane potential. AEMR was also able to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in H2O2-treated C2C12 cells, whereas compound C, a pharmacological inhibitor of AMPK, blocked the protective effects of AEMR. In addition, H2O2-triggered DNA damage was markedly attenuated in the presence of AEMR, which was associated with the inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Further studies showed that AEMR inhibited cytochrome c release from mitochondria into the cytoplasm, and Bcl-2 suppression and Bax activation induced by H2O2. Furthermore, AEMR diminished H2O2-induced activation of caspase-3, which was associated with the ability of AEMR to block the degradation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, thereby attenuating H2O2-induced apoptosis. However, compound C greatly abolished the protective effect of AEMR against H2O2-induced C2C12 cell apoptosis, including the restoration of mitochondrial dysfunction. Taken together, these results demonstrate that AEMR could protect C2C12 myoblasts from oxidative damage by maintaining mitochondrial function while eliminating ROS, at least with activation of the AMPK signaling pathway. In addition, oral administration of AEMR alleviated gastrocnemius and soleus muscle loss in DEX-induced muscle atrophied rats. Our findings support that AEMR might be a promising therapeutic candidate for treating oxidative stress-mediated myoblast injury and muscle atrophy.
Regulation of p27 and Cdk2 Expression in Different Adipose Tissue Depots in Aging and Obesity
Authors: Colón-Mesa Ignacio , Fernández-Galilea Marta , Sáinz Neira , Lopez-Yus Marta , Artigas Jose M. , Arbonés-Mainar José Miguel , Félix-Soriano Elisa , Escoté Xavier , Moreno-Aliaga María Jesús
Published: November 2021

Aging usually comes associated with increased visceral fat accumulation, reaching even an obesity state, and favoring its associated comorbidities. One of the processes involved in aging is cellular senescence, which is highly dependent on the activity of the regulators of the cell cycle. The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in the expression of p27 and cdk2 in different adipose tissue depots during aging, as well as their regulation by obesity in mice. Changes in the expression of p27 and CDK2 in visceral and subcutaneous white adipose tissue (WAT) biopsies were also analyzed in a human cohort of obesity and type 2 diabetes. p27, but not cdk2, exhibits a lower expression in subcutaneous than in visceral WAT in mice and humans. p27 is drastically downregulated by aging in subcutaneous WAT (scWAT), but not in gonadal WAT, of female mice. Obesity upregulates p27 and cdk2 expression in scWAT, but not in other fat depots of aged mice. In humans, a significant upregulation of p27 was observed in visceral WAT of subjects with obesity. Taken together, these results show a differential adipose depot-dependent regulation of p27 and cdk2 in aging and obesity, suggesting that p27 and cdk2 could contribute to the adipose-tissue depot’s metabolic differences. Further studies are necessary to fully corroborate this hypothesis.
Kinetic Studies of Newly Patented Aminoalkanol Derivatives with Potential Anticancer Activity as Competitive Inhibitors of Prostate Acid Phosphatase
Authors: Grodner Błażej , Napiórkowska Mariola , Pisklak Dariusz Maciej
Published: November 2021

Background: Acid phosphatase and its regulation are important objects of biological and clinical research and play an important role in the development and treatment of prostate and bone diseases. The newly patented aminoalkanol (4-[2-hydroxy-3-(propan-2-ylamino)propyl]-1,7-dimethyl-8,9-diphenyl-4-azatricyclo[5.2.1.02,6]dec-8-ene-3,5,10-trione hydrochloride) (I) and (4-[3-(dimethylamino)-2-hydroxypropyl]-1,7-dimethyl-8,9-diphenyl-4-azatricyclo[5.2.1.02,6]dec-8-ene-3,5,10-trione hydrochloride) (II) derivatives have potential anticancer activity, and their influence on enzymatic activity can significantly impact the therapeutic effects of acid phosphatase against many diseases. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the action of compounds (I) and (II) on acid phosphatase. Methods: Capillary electrophoresis was used to evaluate the inhibition of acid phosphatase. Lineweaver–Burk plots were constructed to compare the Km of this enzyme in the presence of inhibitors (I) or (II) with the Km in solutions without these inhibitors. Results: Compound (I) showed a stronger competitive inhibition against acid phosphatase, whereas derivative (II) showed a weaker competitive type of inhibition. The detailed kinetic studies of these compounds showed that their type and strength of inhibition as well as affinity depend on the kind of substituent occurring in the main chemical molecule. Conclusions: This study is of great importance because the disclosed inhibition of acid phosphatase by compounds (I) and (II) raises the question of whether these compounds could have any effect on the treatment possibilities of prostate diseases.
The Great Escape: mRNA Export through the Nuclear Pore Complex
Authors: De Magistris Paola
Published: November 2021

Nuclear export of messenger RNA (mRNA) through the nuclear pore complex (NPC) is an indispensable step to ensure protein translation in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. mRNA is not translocated on its own, but it forms ribonuclear particles (mRNPs) in association with proteins that are crucial for its metabolism, some of which; like Mex67/MTR2-NXF1/NXT1; are key players for its translocation to the cytoplasm. In this review, I will summarize our current body of knowledge on the basic characteristics of mRNA export through the NPC. To be granted passage, the mRNP cargo needs to bind transport receptors, which facilitate the nuclear export. During NPC transport, mRNPs undergo compositional and conformational changes. The interactions between mRNP and the central channel of NPC are described; together with the multiple quality control steps that mRNPs undergo at the different rings of the NPC to ensure only proper export of mature transcripts to the cytoplasm. I conclude by mentioning new opportunities that arise from bottom up approaches for a mechanistic understanding of nuclear export.
In Vitro Cartilage Regeneration with a Three-Dimensional Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) Implant in a Bovine Cartilage Punch Model
Authors: Horbert Victoria , Xin Long , Föhr Peter , Huber René , Burgkart Rainer H. , Kinne Raimund W.
Published: November 2021

Resorbable polyglycolic acid (PGA) chondrocyte grafts are clinically established for human articular cartilage defects. Long-term implant performance was addressed in a standardized in vitro model. PGA implants (+/− bovine chondrocytes) were placed inside cartilage rings punched out of bovine femoral trochleas (outer Ø 6 mm; inner defect Ø 2 mm) and cultured for 84 days (12 weeks). Cartilage/PGA hybrids were subsequently analyzed by histology (hematoxylin/eosin; safranin O), immunohistochemistry (aggrecan, collagens 1 and 2), protein assays, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions, and implant push-out force measurements. Cartilage/PGA hybrids remained vital with intact matrix until 12 weeks, limited loss of proteoglycans from “host” cartilage or cartilage–PGA interface, and progressively diminishing release of proteoglycans into the supernatant. By contrast, the collagen 2 content in cartilage and cartilage–PGA interface remained approximately constant during culture (with only little collagen 1). Both implants (+/− cells) displayed implant colonization and progressively increased aggrecan and collagen 2 mRNA, but significantly decreased push-out forces over time. Cell-loaded PGA showed significantly accelerated cell colonization and significantly extended deposition of aggrecan. Augmented chondrogenic differentiation in PGA and cartilage/PGA-interface for up to 84 days suggests initial cartilage regeneration. Due to the PGA resorbability, however, the model exhibits limitations in assessing the “lateral implant bonding”.
Therapeutic Targeting of Alternative RNA Splicing in Gastrointestinal Malignancies and Other Cancers
Authors: Sahin Ilyas , George Andrew , Seyhan Attila A.
Published: November 2021

Recent comprehensive genomic studies including single-cell RNA sequencing and characterization have revealed multiple processes by which protein-coding and noncoding RNA processing are dysregulated in many cancers. More specifically, the abnormal regulation of mRNA and precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA) processing, which includes the removal of introns by splicing, is frequently altered in tumors, producing multiple different isoforms and diversifying protein expression. These alterations in RNA processing result in numerous cancer-specific mRNAs and pathogenically spliced events that generate altered levels of normal proteins or proteins with new functions, leading to the activation of oncogenes or the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes. Abnormally spliced pre-mRNAs are also associated with resistance to cancer treatment, and certain cancers are highly sensitive to the pharmacological inhibition of splicing. The discovery of these alterations in RNA processing has not only provided new insights into cancer pathogenesis but identified novel therapeutic vulnerabilities and therapeutic opportunities in targeting these aberrations in various ways (e.g., small molecules, splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs), and protein therapies) to modulate alternative RNA splicing or other RNA processing and modification mechanisms. Some of these strategies are currently progressing toward clinical development or are already in clinical trials. Additionally, tumor-specific neoantigens produced from these pathogenically spliced events and other abnormal RNA processes provide a potentially extensive source of tumor-specific therapeutic antigens (TAs) for targeted cancer immunotherapy. Moreover, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms associated with aberrant RNA processes and the biological impact they play might provide insights into cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis. Our goal is to highlight key alternative RNA splicing and processing mechanisms and their roles in cancer pathophysiology as well as emerging therapeutic alternative splicing targets in cancer, particularly in gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies.