bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parental Perspectives of the Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Food-Related Behaviors: Systematic Review
Authors: Titis Elzbieta
Published: September 2022

Home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic has been accompanied by dramatic changes in household food dynamics that can significantly influence health. This systematic literature review presents parental perspectives of the impact of COVID-19 lockdown (up to 30 June 2022) on food preparation and meal routines, as well as other food-related behaviors, capturing both favorable and unfavorable changes in the household food environment. Themes and trends are identified and associations with other lifestyle factors are assessed. Overall, families enjoyed more time together around food, including planning meals, cooking, and eating together. Eating more diverse foods and balanced home-cooked meals (e.g., fresh fruit and vegetables) was combined with overeating and increased snacking (e.g., high-calorie snacks, desserts, and sweets), as parents became more permissive towards food; however, food insecurity increased among families with the lowest income. Adoption of meal planning skills and online shopping behavior emerged alongside behaviors aimed at self-sufficiency, such as bulk purchasing and stockpiling of non-perishable processed foods. These results are an important first step in recognizing how this pandemic may be affecting the family food environment, including low-income families. Future obesity prevention and treatment initiatives, but also ongoing efforts to address food management, parental feeding practices, and food insecurity, can account for these changes moving forward.
Food Applications and Potential Health Benefits of Hawthorn
Authors: Zhang Juan , Chai Xiaoyun , Zhao Fenglan , Hou Guige , Meng Qingguo
Published: September 2022

Hawthorn (Crataegus) is a plant of the Rosaceae family and is widely grown throughout the world as one of the medicinal and edible plants, known as the “nutritious fruit” due to its richness in bioactive substances. Preparations derived from it are used in the formulation of dietary supplements, functional foods, and pharmaceutical products. Rich in amino acids, minerals, pectin, vitamin C, chlorogenic acid, epicatechol, and choline, hawthorn has a high therapeutic and health value. Many studies have shown that hawthorn has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-cardiovascular disease, and digestive enhancing properties. This is related to its bioactive components such as polyphenols (chlorogenic acid, proanthocyanidin B2, epicatechin), flavonoids (proanthocyanidins, mucoxanthin, quercetin, rutin), and pentacyclic triterpenoids (ursolic acid, hawthornic acid, oleanolic acid), which are also its main chemical constituents. This paper briefly reviews the chemical composition, nutritional value, food applications, and the important biological and pharmacological activities of hawthorn. This will contribute to the development of functional foods or nutraceuticals from hawthorn.
Determination of Maximum Oil Yield, Quality Indicators and Absorbance Spectra of Hulled Sunflower Seeds Oil Extraction under Axial Loading
Authors: Kabutey Abraham , Herák David , Mizera Čestmír
Published: September 2022

The present study aims to estimate the maximum oil yield of hulled sunflower seed samples in a uniaxial process under a load of 40 kN and speed of 4 mm/min. The oil samples were assessed for their quality parameters and spectra curves within the wavelength range of 325–600 nm. The results show that heating temperatures in the range of 40 °C to 80 °C increased the oil output; however, a maximum oil yield of 48.869 ± 6.023% with a minimum energy of 533.709 ± 65.644 J at the fifth repeated pressing was obtained from the unheated sample compared to the heated samples. The peroxide values ranged from 6.898 ± 0.144 to 7.290 ± 0.507 meq O2/kg, acid values from 1.043 ± 0.166 to 1.998 ± 0.276 mg KOH/g oil and free fatty acid values from 0.521 ± 0.083 to 0.999 ± 0.138 mg KOH/g oil, which were within the recommended quality threshold. There were significant spectral differences among the oil samples. A single absorbance peak was observed at 350 nm for all oil samples, indicating low levels of pigment molecules in the oil. The study revealed the need for repeated pressings to recover the considerable residual oil remaining in the seedcake after the first pressing.
Exploring Parents’ Concerns Regarding Long-Term Support and Living Arrangements for Their Children with Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Shuleski Kaylynn , Zalles Laura , Lozano Reymundo
Published: September 2022

Given limited data regarding future planning specific to Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) individuals and the growing population of individuals within this community, this study sought to explore the concerns and challenges caregivers of individuals affected by FXS encounter when considering long-term support plans. This involved identifying the reasons individuals with FXS continue to reside with family and the reservations caregivers have regarding future supports and living arrangements. We administered an anonymous online survey consisting of 34 questions assessing eligibility, living arrangements/supports, and future concerns. We found that most individuals with FXS were affected with moderate Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and co-occurring behavioral conditions but had overall good health. The majority of individuals with FXS currently resided with family due to parental desire, their own desire, and the inability to live independently. For one-third of caregivers, the plan for future living arrangements is to continue residing with family members long-term. A large proportion of caregivers had not considered alternative arrangements or were unsure. More than 70% of caregivers of individuals with FXS are concerned about multiple aspects of the individual’s future. Caregivers of younger individuals are the most concerned, but also believe they have time before they need to plan or are unable to currently assess the future need for support.
The Prevalence of Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Producing ESBL among Male and Female Patients with Urinary Tract Infections in Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abalkhail Adil , AlYami Ahmad S. , Alrashedi Saeed F. , Almushayqih Khalid M. , Alslamah Thamer , Alsalamah Yasir Ahmed , Elbehiry Ayman
Published: September 2022

The Escherichia coli that produces extended-spectrum lactamases (ESBL-E. coli) can develop resistance to many antibiotics. The control of ESBL-E. coli disorders is challenging due to their restricted therapeutic approaches, so this study aims to determine the prevalence and pattern of the antibiotic resistance of ESBL-E. coli among male and female patients with urinary tract infections in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. During the period of 2019 to 2020 at King Fahd Medical City, Riyadh, 2250 urine samples from patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs) were collected, and microbial species were cultured and identified using standard biochemical techniques. A double-disc synergy test was used to identify ESBL-producing strains of E. coli, and an in vitro method and the clinical laboratory standard institute (CLSI) criteria were employed to determine the resistance of these strains to antimicrobial drugs. ESBL-E. coli was detected in 510 (33.49%) of the 1523 E. coli isolates, 67.27% of which were recovered from women and 33.7% of which were recovered from men. A total of 284 (55.69%) ESBL-E. coli isolates were found in patients under 50 years of age, and 226 (44.31%) were found in patients over 50 years of age. Nearly all the isolates of ESBL-E. coli were resistant to cephalosporins (ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, cefepime, cefuroxime, and cephalothin) and penicillin (ampicillin), whereas the majority of the isolates were sensitive to several carbapenems (imipenem, meropenem, and ertapenem), aminoglycosides (amikacin), and nitrofurantoins. The development of antibiotic resistance by ESBL-E. coli, the most frequent pathogen linked to urinary tract infections, plays a crucial role in determining which antibiotic therapy is appropriate.
Association between Smartphone Addiction and Suicide
Authors: Shinetsetseg Oyuntuya , Jung Yun Hwa , Park Yu Shin , Park Eun-Cheol , Jang Suk-Yong
Published: September 2022

Objective: This study aimed to explore the associations between smartphone overdependence (smartphone addiction) and suicidal ideation and attempts among Korean adolescents to acknowledge the risk of smartphone overuse. Methods: Data were obtained from the results of the 2020 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey. Smartphone addiction was categorized into three groups: adolescents who scored less than 23 were categorized as the general user group and formed the reference, those with scores of 23–30 were categorized as the potential-risk user group, and those with scores higher than 31 were categorized under the high-risk user group. Suicidal ideation and suicide attempt were identified as dependent variables in the present study. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between SA and suicidal ideation and suicide attempt status among Korean adolescents. Results: This study included 41,173 general users of smartphones, 12,142 potential-risk users, and 1633 high-risk users from among 54,948 adolescents who were middle- and high-school students. Adolescents with potentially risky smartphone use showed a higher likelihood of suicidal ideation (OR: 1.50, CI: 1.42–1.60). Similarly, adolescents with high-risk smartphone use showed a significant risk of suicidal ideation (OR: 2.49, CI: 2.21–2.81) and suicide attempt (OR: 1.87, CI: 1.48–2.37) compared to the adolescents who were general users. Conclusion: Our study results encourage parents and social workers to acknowledge that adolescents’ smartphone addiction leads to a higher risk to their mental health, wherein they may engage in suicidal ideation and even resort to a suicide attempt.
Air Pollution Characteristics during the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics
Authors: Chu Fangjie , Gong Chengao , Sun Shuang , Li Lingjun , Yang Xingchuan , Zhao Wenji
Published: September 2022

Using air pollution monitoring data from 31 January to 31 March 2022, we evaluated air quality trends in Beijing and Zhangjiakou before and after the 2022 Winter Olympics and compared them with the conditions during the same period in 2021. The objective was to define the air quality during the 2022 Winter Olympics. The results indicated that: (1) the average concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, NO2, CO, and SO2 in Zhangjiakou during the 2022 Winter Olympics were 28.15, 29.16, 34.96, 9.06, and 16.41%, respectively, lower than those before the 2022 Winter Olympics; (2) the five pollutant concentrations in Beijing showed the following pattern: during the 2022 Winter Olympics (DWO) < before the 2022 Winter Olympics < after 2022 Winter Paralympics < during 2022 Winter Paralympics; (3) on the opening day (4 February), the concentrations of the five pollutants in both cities were low. PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations varied widely without substantial peaks and the daily average maximum values were 15.17 and 8.67 µg/m3, respectively, which were 65.56 and 69.79% lower than those of DWO, respectively; (4) the PM2.5 clean days in Beijing and Zhangjiakou DWO accounted for 94.12 and 76.47% of the total days, respectively, which were 11.76 and 41.18% higher than those during the same period in 2021; (5) during each phase of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing and Zhangjiakou, the NO2/SO2 and PM2.5/SO2 trends exhibited a decrease followed by an increase. The PM2.5/PM10 ratios in Beijing and Zhangjiakou were 0.65 and 0.67, respectively, indicating that fine particulate matter was the main contributor to air pollution DWO.
Study Protocol of an App-Based Prevention Program for Perinatal Depression
Authors: Tan Xiangmin , He Yuqing , Hua Nan , Wiley James , Sun Mei
Published: September 2022

The prevalence of perinatal depression (PND) in China is continuously rising, and the suicide rate among pregnant women is remarkably high. Preventing the occurrence of PND based on the management of primary health care is of great significance. Improving adherence to intervention programs is a key concern for PND prevention. Thus, a new intervention strategy based on mobile health could bring a new perspective to prevent the occurrence of PND and reduce the sample dropout rate. A single-blind, cluster randomized controlled trial will be performed to evaluate the effectiveness of a personalized, dynamic, and stratified intervention strategy based on an app. Four health centers will be randomly selected and randomly assigned to an intervention group (two centers) and a control group (two centers). Participants (n = 426) will be enrolled from the four selected health centers, with 213 in each group. The intervention group will receive the interventions personalized by the feature-matching algorithm of the user profile and be reassigned to the low-risk group (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale [EPDS] < 9) or moderate/high-risk group (9 ≤ EPDS < 13 and EPDS ≥ 13, but not meeting the criteria for PND) for intervention based on each EPDS score until 6 months after delivery. The control group will receive the same intervention components of the app but without the dynamic, personalized, and stratified function. Depression status, negative emotion symptoms, parental competence, and sample dropout rate will be measured at different weeks of pregnancy (12–16 [baseline], 24, 37) and at 42 days, 3 months, and 6 months after delivery. Follow-up evaluation (t6: 12 months after delivery) will also be conducted. If the intervention is effective, it will provide a personalized, time-friendly, and dynamic intervention for preventing PND. This phenomenon can effectively reduce the sample dropout rate and provide an empirical basis for promoting maternal mental health.
Proactive Criminal Thinking and Restrictive Deterrence: A Pathway to Future Offending and Sanction Avoidance
Authors: Guan Xin , Lo T. Wing
Published: September 2022

Perceived crime benefit and criminal thinking are essential factors in predicting future offending. However, less is known about how the interaction of the two influences individuals’ perception and cognition of crime. This study explores whether proactive criminal thinking mediates the effect of perceived crime benefit, and tests whether restrictive deterrence influences these pathways. Using a drug dealer sample that was drawn from the Second RAND Inmate Survey, this paper finds that proactive criminal thinking significantly mediates the effect of perceived crime benefit on future offending, criminal self-efficacy, and future sanction avoidance. Mediation pathways are enhanced when taking a heterogeneous crime strategy as a moderator, but only in the experienced drug dealer subsample. These results suggest that proactive criminal thinking is a route for channeling the effects of perceived crime benefit, and an amplifier for bringing restrictive deterrence into play. Both roles apply to experienced offenders rather than less-experienced offenders. Integrating restrictive deterrence with individuals’ perception and cognition of crime is a meaningful attempt to fit restrictive deterrence into a broader theoretical map.
A Qualitative Evaluation of Social Aspects of Sugar-Rich Food and Drink Intake and Parental Strategies for Reductions
Authors: Christensen Bodil Just , Bestle Sidse Marie Sidenius , Trolle Ellen , Biltoft-Jensen Anja Pia , Matthiessen Jeppe , Lassen Anne Dahl
Published: September 2022

Danish children have a much larger intake of sugar-rich foods and drinks than recommended. This study aimed to (1) explore social aspects and practices of pre-school children’s intake of sugar-rich foods and drinks and (2) evaluate barriers and parental strategies to reduce their children’s intake of sugar-rich foods and drinks employed in connection with the 3.5-month family-centred intervention trial ‘Are you too sweet?’. Intervention components included communication of the recommended maximum intake and reduction strategies, supported by resources encouraging and facilitating behavioural changes. A random sample of families (n = 24) from intervention schools participated in post-intervention semi-structured interviews. A thematic content analysis was conducted, revealing three main domains of social practices: (1) ‘family treats’, including the weekly Danish concept ‘Friday sweets’, (2) ‘everyday treats’, such as sweet snacks in lunch packs, between-meals snacks and soft drink habits and (3) ‘socialized treats’, including treats at special occasions. Parents employed several strategies, most often substitution and portion-size reduction, but also limiting home availability. Families most frequently made changes that were easily adoptable and close to existing routines at home. In conclusion, the intervention components provided families with knowledge and strategies that facilitated behavioural changes towards reducing the intake of sugar-rich foods and drinks.
Experimental Study on the Modular Vertical Greening Shading in Summer
Authors: Bao Shenglin , Zou Simin , Zhao Mingqiao , Chen Qiuyu , Li Baofeng
Published: September 2022

Previous studies have shown that vertical greening has a significant cooling and energy-saving effect, most of which are applied to opaque walls. However, windows are the critical factor contributing to the indoor thermal environment. This study developed a modular vertical greening shading device (MVGSD), and introduces its detailed structure: water supply mode, plant selection, and substrate preparation. To investigate the thermal performance of MVGSD, a structural model test was carried out. The results show that MVGSD has a noticeable effect on indoor temperature. Specifically, the greatest indoor temperature can be reduced by 4 °C and effectively low the concentration of CO2 (The CO2 absorption rate is 53.1%). In addition, the characteristics of the louver shading and MVGSD were compared, and it was found that the indoor temperature by using MVGSD is 2.6 °C lower than the louver. It is also worth mentioning that indoor humidity is improved by MVGSD, which has a beneficial effect on the thermal comfort of human beings.
Gay Community Stress Scale with Its Cultural Translation and Adaptions in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Chung-Ying , Huang Yu-Te , Lee Chiu-Hsiang , Fan Chia-Wei , Yen Cheng-Fang
Published: September 2022

The present study aimed to adapt the Gay Community Stress Scale (GCSS) into the traditional Chinese version for measuring gay community stress experienced. Additionally, we examined its psychometric propensities among gay and bisexual men (GBM) in Taiwan. In total, 736 GBM participated in this study and completed the 35-item traditional Chinese version of the GCSS (29 items from the original GCSS and six items from the results of the focus group interviews among GBM in Taiwan); the Measure of Internalized Sexual Stigma for Lesbians and Gay Men (MISS-LG); the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI); and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Exploratory factor analysis results suggest a five-factor structure (i.e., Sex, Status, Competition, Exclusion, and Externals) for the 32-item traditional Chinese version of the GCSS among Taiwanese GBM; three items were deleted due to low factor loadings (i.e., <0.3). The five-factor “Externals” were not observed in the original GCSS. Moreover, the concurrent validity of the traditional Chinese version was supported by the positive correlations with MISS-LG, STAI, and CES-D. In conclusion, the traditional Chinese version of the GCSS showed relatively satisfactory psychometric properties. However, further research is needed to investigate the reasons for the possible etiology account for the different factor structures between the traditional Chinese version and the original GCSS.
Edible Insect Consumption for Human and Planetary Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ros-Baró Marta , Casas-Agustench Patricia , Díaz-Rizzolo Diana Alícia , Batlle-Bayer Laura , Adrià-Acosta Ferran , Aguilar-Martínez Alícia , Medina Francesc-Xavier , Pujolà Montserrat , Bach-Faig Anna
Published: September 2022

This systematic review aimed to examine the health outcomes and environmental impact of edible insect consumption. Following PRISMA-P guidelines, PubMed, Medline ProQuest, and Cochrane Library databases were searched until February 2021. Twenty-five articles met inclusion criteria: twelve animal and six human studies (randomized, non-randomized, and crossover control trials), and seven studies on sustainability outcomes. In animal studies, a supplement (in powdered form) of 0.5 g/kg of glycosaminoglycans significantly reduced abdominal and epididymal fat weight (5–40% and 5–24%, respectively), blood glucose (10–22%), and total cholesterol levels (9–10%), and a supplement of 5 mg/kg chitin/chitosan reduced body weight (1–4%) and abdominal fat accumulation (4%) versus control diets. In other animal studies, doses up to 7–15% of edible insect inclusion level significantly improved the live weight (9–33%), reduced levels of triglycerides (44%), cholesterol (14%), and blood glucose (8%), and increased microbiota diversity (2%) versus control diet. In human studies, doses up to 7% of edible insect inclusion level produced a significant improvement in gut health (6%) and reduction in systemic inflammation (2%) versus control diets and a significant increase in blood concentrations of essential and branched-chain amino acids and slowing of digestion (40%) versus whey treatment. Environmental indicators (land use, water footprint, and greenhouse gas emissions) were 40–60% lower for the feed and food of edible insects than for traditional animal livestock. More research is warranted on the edible insect dose responsible for health effects and on environmental indicators of edible insects for human nutrition. This research demonstrates how edible insects can be an alternative protein source not only to improve human and animal nutrition but also to exert positive effects on planetary health.
Crocus Sativus for Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Munirah Mohd Puad , Norhayati Mohd Noor , Noraini Mohamad
Published: September 2022

Insomnia is a common complaint affecting human performance in daily life activities. This study aimed to analyze the effects of Crocus sativus on insomnia. Methods: PRISMA guidelines were used according to the PICOS model. A systematic search of PubMed/Medline and the Cochrane Library was undertaken for literature until December 2021. A random effects model was used with I2 statistic to assess heterogeneity and a GRADE assessment was used to assess the quality of the outcomes. Eight articles were included, involving 431 participants. Crocus sativus reduced insomnia severity (SMD: 0.53; 95%CI: −0.05 to 1.11; I2 statistic = 59%; p = 0.08) and increased sleep quality (SMD 0.89, 95% CI 0.10 to 1.68; I2 statistic = 90%; p = 0.03; 6 studies, 308 participants, very low-quality evidence) and duration (SMD: 0.57; 95%CI: 0.21 to 0.93; I2 statistic = 40%; p = 0.002; 5 studies; 220 participants, moderate-quality evidence) compared with the placebos. Although there is limited evidence of a very low- to moderate-quality, Crocus sativus may benefit people with insomnia. This non-pharmacological intervention may reduce the chance of adults with insomnia taking sedative–hypnotic medication, thus reducing dependency and withdrawal symptoms.
Promotoras de Salud in a Father-Focused Nutrition and Physical Activity Program for Border Communities: Approaches and Lessons Learned from Collaboration
Authors: Johnson Cassandra M. , Allicock Marlyn A. , Sharkey Joseph R. , Umstattd Meyer M. Renée , Gómez Luis , Prochnow Tyler , Laviolette Chelsey , Beltrán Elva , Garza Luz M.
Published: September 2022

Promotoras de salud (promotoras) have been a valuable part of community research for Latino families, such as in the recruitment or delivery of health promotion programs. However, there has been limited discussion of how to integrate a promotora model into a father-focused program to support nutrition and physical activity within Latino families. This manuscript’s purpose is to describe how to engage and collaborate with promotoras in a father-focused, family-centered program for Latino families living in colonias near the U.S.–Mexico border. As part of a longstanding community–academic partnership, the authors outline approaches and lessons learned from collaboration with promotoras during the design (including formative work and training), implementation, and evaluation of a behavioral program—¡Haz Espacio para Papi! (HEPP, Make Room for Daddy!). Promotoras’ contributions supported the entire program, from design through evaluation. The team of all-female promotoras created a balance between the needs and preferences of the community and the goals and requirements of the research. While there is considerable time and human capital required for collaboration, the mutual benefits can make this work meaningful to all involved.
The Fatigue-Related Symptoms Post-Acute SARS-CoV-2: A Preliminary Comparative Study
Authors: Thomas Marie
Published: September 2022

A sizeable sub-group of individuals continue to experience persistent debilitating symptoms post-acute SARS-CoV-2. Although these can vary from person to person, fatigue appears to be the most common symptom. Post-viral fatigue has been documented in conditions such as influenza, infectious mononucleosis and more recently chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The current study uses measures that successfully describe the fatigue-related symptoms associated with CFS to investigate the fatigue experienced post-acute SARS-CoV-2. Twenty-six volunteers were recruited from Long COVID support groups active on social media. Data were collected anonymously using an online survey platform. These data were compared to pre-pandemic data from non-fatigued and CFS groups. The post-acute SARS-CoV-2 volunteers reported significantly higher levels of fatigue and cognitive difficulties than the non-fatigued controls. They also report more individual symptoms (such as lack of concentration) and problems with sleep quality. There was a similarity between the post-acute SARS-CoV-2 volunteers and the CFS group in terms of levels of depression, perceived stress, emotional distress and cognitive difficulties. Although this was a small-scale study, it demonstrates the range of symptoms experienced post-acute SARS-CoV-2. In addition, the similarities between this group and CFS suggests the need for further research into the mechanisms at play here, the need to identify those at risk of long-term symptoms and the development of possible interventions.
Physical Culture and Sports as an Educational Basis of Students’ Healthy Physical Activities during and Post-Lockdown COVID-19 Restrictions
Authors: Dróżdż Remigiusz , Pasek Marcin , Zając Magdalena , Szark-Eckardt Mirosława
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: The SARS-CoV-2 virus manifests itself in many aspects of everyday life, among which one of the most frequently accentuated are changes in physical activity from the perspective of lockdown mobility limitations. The aim of this study was to assess the level of physical activity in groups of students with different levels of educational engagement in physical activity while taking into account the realities of remote and traditional education. (2) Methods: The study was conducted among 200 students of 3 majors with varying degrees of curriculum related to physical activity, including students of physical education (n-73), tourism and recreation (n-65) and students of a non-physical education major (n-62). The survey technique used was the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). (3) Results: PE students are the most engaged in physical activity compared to other study groups. This pattern is particularly true for high physical activity. An interesting observation is that, in the post-lockdown period, there was no statistically significant difference between the physical activity levels of PE students and TR students. Meanwhile, such a difference in favor of PE students was evident during the lockdown period. (4) Conclusions: Educational links to physical activity appear to be an important factor in stimulating this activity during times of epidemiological emergency.
β-Cyclodextrin-Based Supramolecular Imprinted Fiber Array for Highly Selective Detection of Parabens
Authors: Liu Zhimin , Zhou Qingqing , Wang Dan , Duan Yunli , Zhang Xuehua , Yang Yi , Xu Zhigang
Published: September 2022

A novel high-throughput array analytical platform based on derived β-cyclodextrin supramolecular imprinted polymer (SMIP) fibers was constructed to achieve selective enrichment and removal of parabens. SMIP fiber arrays have abundant imprinting sites and introduce the host–guest inclusion effect of the derived β-cyclodextrin, which is beneficial to significantly improve the adsorption ability of fiber for parabens. Upon combination with HPLC, a specific and sensitive recognition method was developed with a low limit of detection (0.003–0.02 µg/L, S/N = 3) for parabens analysis in environmental water. This method has a good linearity (R > 0.9994) in the linear range of 0.01–200 µg/L. The proposed SMIP fiber array with high-throughput adsorption capacity has great potential in monitoring water pollution, which also provides a reliable reference for the analysis of more categories of pharmaceutical and personal care product pollutants.
Novel Roles of RNA m6A Methylation Regulators in the Occurrence of Alzheimer’s Disease and the Subtype Classification
Authors: Li Min , Cheng Wenli , Zhang Luyun , Zhou Cheng , Peng Xinyue , Yu Susu , Zhang Wenjuan
Published: September 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common forms of dementia, closely related to epigenetic factors. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant RNA modification, affecting the pathogenesis and development of neurodegenerative diseases. This study was the first exploration of the combined role of 25 common m6A RNA methylation regulators in AD through the integrated bioinformatics approaches. The 14 m6A regulators related to AD were selected by analyzing differences between AD patients and normal controls. Based on the selected m6A regulators, AD patients could be well classified into two m6A models using consensus clustering. The two clusters of patients had different immune profiles, and m6A regulators were associated with the components of immune cells. Additionally, there were 19 key AD genes obtained by screening differential genes through weighted gene co-expression network and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis, which were highly associated with important m6A regulators during the occurrence of AD. More interestingly, NOTCH2 and NME1 could be potential targets for m6A regulation of AD. Taken together, these findings indicate that dysregulation of m6A methylation affects the occurrence of AD and is vital for the subtype classification and immune infiltration of AD.
The Clinical Application of Growth Hormone and Its Biological and Molecular Mechanisms in Assisted Reproduction
Authors: Pan Peipei , Huang Xuefeng
Published: September 2022

Growth hormone (GH) has been used as a co-gonadotrophin in assisted reproduction, particularly in poor ovarian responders. The application of GH has been alleged to activate primordial follicles and improve oocyte quality, embryo quality, and steroidogenesis. However, the effects of GH on the live birth rate among women is controversial. Additionally, although the basic biological mechanisms that lead to the above clinical differences have been investigated, they are not yet well understood. The actions of GH are mediated by GH receptors (GHRs) or insulin-like growth factors (IGFs). GH regulates the vital signal transduction pathways that are involved in primordial follicular activation, steroidogenesis, and oocyte maturation. However, the therapeutic windows and duration of GH administration during assisted reproductive technology require further investigation. The review aimed to clarify the role of GH in human fertility from a molecular and biological point of view to provide evidence for proper GH administration.
Functional Characterization of Ubiquitination Genes in the Interaction of Soybean—Heterodera glycines
Authors: Qi Nawei , Yan Jichen , Lei Piao , Zhu Xiaofeng , Liu Xiaoyu , Xuan Yuanhu , Fan Haiyan , Wang Yuanyuan , Chen Lijie , Duan Yuxi
Published: September 2022

Ubiquitination is a kind of post-translational modification of proteins that plays an important role in plant response to biotic and abiotic stress. The response of soybean GmPUB genes to soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines) infection is largely unknown. In this study, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect the relative expression of 49 GmPUB genes in susceptible cultivar William 82 and resistant cultivar Huipizhi after SCN inoculation. The results show that GmPUB genes responded to cyst nematode infection at 1 day post-inoculation (dpi), 5 dpi, 10 dpi and 15 dpi. The expression levels of GmPUB16A, GmPUB20A, GmCHIPA, GmPUB33A, GmPUB23A and GmPUB24A were dramatically changed during SCN infection. Furthermore, functional analysis of these GmPUB genes by overexpression and RNAi showed that GmPUB20A, GmPUB33A and GmPUB24A negatively regulated soybean resistance under SCN stress. The results from our present study provide insights into the complicated molecular mechanism of the interaction between soybean and SCN.
Characterization of miRNAs in Milk Small Extracellular Vesicles from Enzootic Bovine Leukosis Cattle
Authors: Tsukada Fumi , Takashima Shigeo , Wakihara Yoshiko , Kamatari Yuji O. , Shimizu Kaori , Okada Ayaka , Inoshima Yasuo
Published: September 2022

Enzootic bovine leukosis (EBL) is a B-cell lymphosarcoma caused by the bovine leukemia virus (BLV). Most BLV-infected cattle show no clinical signs and only some develop EBL. The pathogenesis of EBL remains unclear and there are no methods for predicting EBL before its onset. Previously, it was reported that miRNA profiles in milk small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) were affected in cattle in the late stage of BLV infection. It raised a possibility that miRNA profile in milk sEVs from EBL cattle could be also affected. To characterize the difference in milk of EBL cattle and healthy cattle, we examined the miRNA profiles in milk sEVs from four EBL and BLV-uninfected cattle each using microarray analysis. Among the detected miRNAs, three miRNAs—bta-miR-1246, hsa-miR-1290, and hsa-miR-424-5p—which were detectable using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and are associated with cancers in humans—were selected as biomarker candidates for EBL. To evaluate the utility of these miRNAs as biomarkers for EBL, their levels were measured using milk that was freshly collected from 13 EBL and seven BLV-uninfected cattle. bta-miR-1246 and hsa-miR-424-5p, but not hsa-miR-1290, were detected using qPCR and their levels in milk sEVs from EBL cattle were significantly higher than those in BLV-uninfected cattle. bta-miR-1246 and hsa-miR-424-5p in sEVs may promote metastasis by targeting tumor suppressor genes, resulting in increased amounts in milk sEVs in EBL cattle. These results suggest that bta-miR-1246 and hsa-miR-424-5p levels in milk sEVs could serve as biomarkers for EBL.
Effects of Oral Exposure to Low-Dose Bisphenol S on Allergic Asthma in Mice
Authors: Yanagisawa Rie , Koike Eiko , Win-Shwe Tin-Tin , Takano Hirohisa
Published: September 2022

Bisphenol S (BPS) is increasingly being used as an alternative for bisphenol A; however, its health effects remain unclear. We investigated the effects of oral exposure to low-dose BPS on allergic asthma. C3H/HeJ male mice were intratracheally administered with allergen (ovalbumin (OVA), 1 μg/animal) every 2 weeks from 6 to 11 weeks old. BPS was ingested by drinking water at doses equivalent to 0.04, 0.4, and 4 μg/kg/day. We then examined pulmonary inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, serum OVA-specific immunoglobulin (Ig) levels, Th2 cytokine/chemokine production, and mediastinal lymph node (MLN) cell activities. Compared with OVA alone, moderate-dose BPS (BPS-M) with OVA significantly enhanced pulmonary inflammation, airway hyperresponsiveness, and OVA-specific IgE and IgG1. Furthermore, interleukin (IL)-5, IL-13, IL-33, and CCL11/Eotaxin protein levels in the lungs increased. Conversely, these allergic responses were reduced in the high-dose BPS+OVA group. In MLN cells, BPS-M with OVA increased the total cell count and activated antigen-presenting cells including conventional dendritic cell subset (cDC2). After OVA restimulation, cell proliferation and Th2 cytokine production (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) in the culture supernatant also increased. Therefore, oral exposure to low-dose BPS may exacerbate allergic asthmatic responses by enhancing Th2-polarized responses and activating the MLN cells.
OsTBP2.1, a TATA-Binding Protein, Alters the Ratio of OsNRT2.3b to OsNRT2.3a and Improves Rice Grain Yield
Authors: Zhang Yong , Iqbal Muhammad Faseeh , Wang Yulong , Qian Kaiyun , Xiang Jinxia , Xu Guohua , Fan Xiaorong
Published: September 2022

The OsNRT2.3a and OsNRT2.3b isoforms play important roles in the uptake and transport of nitrate during rice growth. However, it is unclear which cis-acting element controls the transcription of OsNRT2.3 into these specific isoforms. In this study, we used a yeast one-hybrid assay to obtain the TATA-box binding protein OsTBP2.1, which binds to the TATA-box of OsNRT2.3, and verified its important role through transient expression and RNA-seq. We found that the TATA-box of OsNRT2.3 mutants and binding protein OsTBP2.1 together increased the transcription ratio of OsNRT2.3b to OsNRT2.3a. The overexpression of OsTBP2.1 promoted nitrogen uptake and increased rice yield compared with the wild-type; however, the OsTBP2.1 T-DNA mutant lines exhibited the opposite trend. Detailed analyses demonstrated that the TATA-box was the key cis-regulatory element for OsNRT2.3 to be transcribed into OsNRT2.3a and OsNRT2.3b. Additionally, this key cis-regulatory element, together with the binding protein OsTBP2.1, promoted the development of rice and increased grain yield.
Reliability Analysis of Gravity Retaining Wall Using Hybrid ANFIS
Authors: Mustafa Rashid , Samui Pijush , Kumari Sunita
Published: September 2022

Gravity retaining walls are a vital structure in the area of geotechnical engineering, and academicians in earlier studies have conveyed substantial uncertainties involved in calculating the factor of safety against overturning, using a deterministic approach. Hence, to enhance the accuracy and eliminate the uncertainties involved, artificial intelligence (AI) was used in the present research. The main aim of this study is to propose a high-performance machine learning (ML) model to determine the factor of safety (FOS) of gravity retaining walls against overturning. The projected methodology included a novel hybrid machine learning model that merged with an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and meta-heuristic optimization techniques (particle swarm optimization (PSO), genetic algorithm (GA), firefly algorithm (FFA) and grey wolf optimization (GWO)). In this research, four hybrid models, namely ANFIS-PSO, ANFIS-FFA, ANFIS-GA and ANFIS-GWO, were created to estimate the factor of safety against overturning. The proposed hybrid models were evaluated on two distinct datasets (training 70% and testing 30%) with three input combinations, namely cohesion (c), unit weight of soil (Υ) and angle of shearing resistance (φ). To access the prediction power of different hybrid models, various statistical parameters such as R2, AdjR2, VAF, WI, LMI, a-20 index, PI, KGE, RMSE, SI, MAE, NMBE and MBE were computed for training (TR) and testing (TS) datasets. The overall performance of the models indicated that ANFIS-PSO provided better results among all four models. The reliability index was computed using the first-order second-moment (FOSM) method for all models, and the probability of failure was also computed. A Williams plot was drawn to check the applicability domain of the hybrid model and to check the influence of different input parameters on the prediction of the factor of safety, and the Gini index was also computed.
Mating and Sexual Selection in Empidine Dance Flies (Empididae)
Authors: Murray Rosalind L. , Gwynne Darryl T. , Bussière Luc F.
Published: September 2022

Species whose behaviour or morphology diverges from typical patterns can provide unique insights on the evolutionary forces that promote diversity. Darwin recognised that while elaborate sexually selected traits mostly occurred among males, in a few species females possess such traits. Some species from the subfamily Empidinae (Diptera: Empididae) are among the animals that are often invoked to illustrate female ornaments. Empidines include taxa that exhibit varying levels of female ornament expression; some species possess multiple, elaborate female-specific ornaments while others have fewer and more modest adornments, and many species are altogether lacking discernible sexual ornamentation. This continuous variation in display traits in the Empidinae provides unique opportunities to explore the causes and consequences of sexually selected ornament expression. Here, we review the literature on sexual selection and mating systems in these flies and synthesise the evidence for various evolutionary forces that could conceivably create this impressive morphological and behavioural diversity, despite evolutionary constraints on female ornament exaggeration that help to explain its general rarity among animals. We also suggest some aspects of diversity that remain relatively unexplored or poorly understood, and close by offering suggestions for future research progress in the evolutionary ecology of mating behaviour among empidine flies.
Individual Trajectories of Bone Mineral Density Reveal Persistent Bone Loss in Bone Sarcoma Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Avnet Sofia , Falzetti Luigi , Bazzocchi Alberto , Gasperini Chiara , Taddei Fulvia , Schileo Enrico , Baldini Nicola
Published: September 2022

Multiagent chemotherapy offers an undoubted therapeutic benefit to cancer patients, but is also associated with chronic complications in survivors. Osteoporosis affects the quality of life of oncologic patients, especially at the paediatric age. However, very few studies have described the extent of loss of bone mineral density (BMD) in bone sarcoma patients. We analysed a retrospective series of children and adolescents with primary malignant bone tumours (52 osteosarcoma and 31 Ewing sarcoma) and retrieved their BMD at diagnosis and follow-up as Hounsfield units (HU). We studied their individual BMD trajectories before and after chemotherapy up to 5 years, using routine chest CT scan and attenuation thresholds on T12 vertebrae ROI. At one year, bone sarcoma patients showed significant bone loss compared to diagnosis: 17.6% and 17.1% less for OS and EW, respectively. Furthermore, a bone loss of more than 49.2 HU at one-year follow-up was predictive of the persistence of a reduced bone mass over the following 4 years, especially in patients with EW. At 4 years, only 26% and 12.5% of OS and EW, respectively, had recovered or improved their BMD with respect to the onset, suggesting a risk of developing morbidities related to a low BMD in those subjects.
Device for Negative Pressure Wound Therapy in Low-Resource Regions: Open-Source Description and Bench Test Evaluation
Authors: Farré Ramon , Rodríguez-Lázaro Miguel A. , Gonzalez-Martin Julian , Castro Pedro , Hospital Teresa , Compta Yaroslau , Solana Gorka , Gozal David , Otero Jorge
Published: September 2022

Background: Negative (vacuum) pressure therapy promotes wound healing. However, commercially available devices are unaffordable to most potential users in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), limiting access to many patients who could benefit from this treatment. This study aimed to design and test a cheap and easy-to-build negative pressure device and provide its detailed open-source description, thereby enabling free replication. Methods: the negative pressure device was built using off-the-shelf materials available via e-commerce and was based on a small pump, a pressure transducer, and the simplest Arduino controller with a digital display (total retail cost ≤ 75 US$). The device allows the user to set any therapeutic range of intermittent negative pressure and has two independent safety mechanisms. The performance of the low-cost device was carefully tested on the bench using a phantom wound, producing a realistic exudate flow rate. Results: the device generates the pressure patterns set by the user (25–175 mmHg of vacuum pressure, 0–60 min periods) and can drain exudate flows within the clinical range (up to 1 L/h). Conclusions: a novel, low-cost, easy-to-build negative pressure device for wound healing displays excellent technical performance. The open-source hardware description provided here, which allows for free replication and use in LMICs, will facilitate the application and wider utilization of this therapy to patients.
Increased Respiratory Drive after Prolonged Isoflurane Sedation: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Müller-Wirtz Lukas Martin , Grimm Dustin , Albrecht Frederic Walter , Fink Tobias , Volk Thomas , Meiser Andreas
Published: September 2022

Low-dose isoflurane stimulates spontaneous breathing. We, therefore, tested the hypothesis that isoflurane compared to propofol sedation for at least 48 h is associated with increased respiratory drive in intensive care patients after sedation stop. All patients in our intensive care unit receiving at least 48 h of isoflurane or propofol sedation in 2019 were included. The primary outcome was increased respiratory drive over 72 h after sedation stop, defined as an arterial carbon dioxide pressure below 35 mmHg and a base excess more than −2 mmol/L. Secondary outcomes were acid–base balance and ventilatory parameters. We analyzed 64 patients, 23 patients sedated with isoflurane and 41 patients sedated with propofol. Patients sedated with isoflurane were about three times as likely to show increased respiratory drive after sedation stop than those sedated with propofol: adjusted risk ratio [95% confidence interval]: 2.9 [1.3, 6.5], p = 0.010. After sedation stop, tidal volumes were significantly greater and arterial carbon dioxide partial pressures were significantly lower, while respiratory rates did not differ in isoflurane versus propofol-sedated patients. In conclusion, prolonged isoflurane use in intensive care patients is associated with increased respiratory drive after sedation stop. Beneficial effects of isoflurane sedation on respiratory drive may, thus, extend beyond the actual period of sedation.