bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) Aqueous Extract on Postprandial Glycemia in Nondiabetic Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Diakos Alda , Silva Maria Leonor , Brito José , Moncada Margarida , de Mesquita Maria Fernanda , Bernardo Maria Alexandra
Published: March 2023

Ginger has shown beneficial effects on blood glucose control due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The present study investigated the effect of ginger aqueous extract on postprandial glucose levels in nondiabetic adults and characterized its antioxidant activity. Twenty-four nondiabetic participants were randomly assigned into two groups (NCT05152745), the intervention group (n = 12) and the control group (n = 12). Both groups were administered 200 mL of an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), after which participants in the intervention group ingested 100 mL of ginger extract (0.2 g/100 mL). Postprandial blood glucose was measured while fasting and after 30, 60, 90, and 120 min. The total phenolic content, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of ginger extract were quantified. In the intervention group, the incremental area under the curve for glucose levels decreased significantly (p < 0.001) and the maximum glucose concentration significantly reduced (p < 0.001). The extract possessed a polyphenolic content of 13.85 mg gallic acid equivalent/L, a flavonoid content of 3.35 mg quercetin equivalent/L, and a high superoxide radical inhibitory capacity (45.73%). This study showed that ginger has a beneficial effect on glucose homeostasis under acute conditions and encourages the use of ginger extract as a promising source of natural antioxidants.
Influences of Illumination Pretreatment on Soybean Oil Activated Clay Bleaching Effects and Soybean Oil Quality Evaluation
Authors: Ye Zhan , Luo Shufan , Lv Yaping , Liu Yuanfa
Published: March 2023

Visible light has been widely studied for possible applications in food industry as being a kind of clean energy. Presently, the influences of illumination pretreatment on soybean oil quality followed by conventional activated clay bleaching, including the oil color, fatty acid composition, oxidation stability, and micronutrient content, were investigated. Results demonstrated that the illumination pretreatment increased the color differences between the non-illuminated and illuminated soybean oils, which indicated that the light exposure could improve the decoloring effects. The fatty acids composition and the peroxide value (POV) and oxidation stability index (OSI) of the soybean oils showed little changes during this process. Although the illumination pretreatment affected the content of lipid-soluble micronutrients, including phytosterols and tocopherols, no significant differences could be observed (p > 0.05). Moreover, it showed that the illumination pretreatment showed significant effects for decreasing the following activated clay bleaching temperature, indicating the energy saving potential of this novel soybean oil decoloring process. The present study might provide new insights for developing eco-friendly and efficient vegetable oil bleaching technology.
Cognitive Impairment in Celiac Disease Patients: Scoping Review Exploring Psychological Triggers in a Chronic Condition
Authors: Caruso Alberto , Di Giacomo Dina
Published: March 2023

Celiac disease (CD), also known as gluten-sensitive enteropathy, is an inflammatory autoimmune reaction triggered by ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed subjects. Celiac disease is often associated with a wide range of disorders, caused by immune responses and by malabsorption with subsequent nutritional deficiencies. Prevalent neurologic manifestations are ataxia, epilepsy, cerebral calcification, cerebral white matter lesions, peripheral neuropathy and myopathy, but also cognitive impairment. The study aimed to identify emerging and urgent research domains in order to establish a CD-specific patient-tailored protocol that includes both psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Cochrane library in November 2022. We conducted a descriptive analysis of the characteristics of the included literature. Based on the exclusion/inclusion criteria, a total of seven articles were included in the scoping review process. This review demonstrated the lack of research on CD-related cognitive impairment key features and tries to focus on both cognitive and psychological manifestations as well as their two-way interaction. We tried to establish the specific areas involved, in order to have a comprehensive view of this condition and trying to determine a correct way of assessing CD cognitive impairment and its correlations with psychological distress and personal coping skills to a chronic condition. Nevertheless, research on this topic is progressively increasing and future studies should address specific key points.
Safety Survey on Lone Working Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alghamdi Sami A. , Alshamrani Saad A. , Alomair Othman I. , Alashban Yazeed I. , Abujamea Abdullah H. , Mattar Essam H. , Almalki Mohammed , Alkhorayef Mohammed
Published: March 2023

Purpose: The American College of Radiology (ACR) requires MR personnel not to work alone due to the increased risk of safety issues such as projectiles, aggressive patients, and technologist fatigue. As a result, we intend to assess the current safety of lone-working MRI technologists in MRI departments in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study using a self-report questionnaire was conducted in 88 Saudi hospitals. Results: A response rate of 64% (174/270) was obtained among the 270 MRI technologists which were identified. The study discovered that 86% of MRI technologists had prior experience working alone. In terms of MRI safety training, 63% of MRI technologists received such training. A question about lone MRI workers’ awareness of the ACR’s recommendations revealed that 38% were unaware of such recommendations. Furthermore, 22% were misinformed, believing that working alone in an MRI unit is optional or depends on the individual’s desire to work alone. Working alone has the primary consequence of being statistically significantly associated with projectile/object-related accidents/mistakes (p = 0.03). Conclusion: Saudi Arabian MRI technologists have extensive experience working alone without supervision. Most MRI technologists are unaware of lone working regulations, which has raised concerns about accidents/mistakes. There is a need for MRI safety training and adequate practical experience to raise awareness of MRI safety regulations and policies related to lone working among departments and MRI workers.
The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine among Peritoneal Dialysis Patients at a Second-Level Hospital in Yucatán Mexico
Authors: Gracida-Osorno Carlos , Jiménez-Martínez Sandra Luz , Uc-Cachón Andrés Humberto , Molina-Salinas Gloria María
Published: March 2023

Background: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely used for multiple reasons such as treatment of diseases and their symptoms, empowerment, self-care, disease prevention, dissatisfaction, adverse effects or cost of conventional medicine, perception of compatibility with beliefs, and idiosyncrasy. This study investigated CAM use in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). Methods: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted with 240 eligible patients with CKD in the PD program. By applying the I-CAM-Q-questionnaire, the frequency, level of satisfaction, and reasons for CAM use were explored, and the demographic and clinical data of users and non-users were analyzed. Data analysis included descriptive analysis, Student’s t-test, Mann-Whitney U, chi-square, and Fisher tests. Results: The main types of CAM used were herbal medicine, and chamomile was the most commonly used. To improve the state of well-being was the main reason for use, the attributable benefit of CAM was high, and only a low percentage of users reported side effects. Only 31.8% of the users informed their physicians. Conclusion: The use of CAM is popular among renal patients, and physicians are not adequately informed; in particular, the CAM type ingested represents a risk for drug interactions and toxicity.
Effect of Weed Competition on Growth of Container Grown Ornamentals Plants in Four Different Container Sizes
Authors: Khamare Yuvraj , Marble Stephen C. , Pearson Brian J. , Chen Jianjun , Devkota Pratap
Published: March 2023

The objective of this study was to assess the growth of two woody ornamental plants when subjected to different levels of weed competition in four different container sizes, representing different stages of production. Ligustrum (Ligustrum lucidum W.T.Aiton) and Japanese holly (Ilex crenata Thunb.) liners were potted individually into 3.8 L, 11.4 L, 24.7 L, and 56.8 L containers, respectively. Weed coverage of 0%, 50%, and 100% in each container size was maintained by surface sowing seeds of six common nursery weed species by volume, based on media surface area in each pot. Results showed that the shoot dry weight of ligustrum at 50% and 100% weed levels was reduced by 28% and 35%, 55% and 56%, 41% and 43%, and 12% and 14% in 3.8 L, 11.4 L, 24.7 L, and 56.8 L containers, respectively. The shoot dry weight of Japanese holly at 50% and 100% weed levels was reduced by 18% and 22%, 51% and 52%, 51% and 53%, and 40% and 53% in 3.8 L, 11.4 L, 24.7 L, and 56.8 L containers, respectively. Results indicate that weed competition at 50% and 100% weed level was similar across all four container sizes, and weeds remained competitive even in the larger container sizes.
Evaluation of Nursery Traits in Japanese Plums on Five Different Rootstocks
Authors: Nečas Tomáš , Wolf Jan , Zezulová Eliška , Ondrášek Ivo
Published: March 2023

Climate change has a negative effect on the environment in which traditional fruit species are grown and, at the same time, offers the potential for cultivation of new species. Japanese plums derived from P. salicina Lindley are a fruit species that is slowly being introduced to the Czech Republic. Therefore, there are efforts to find ways to grow these varieties. In our experiment, selected nursery traits that are important for the production of Japanese plum saplings in the region of the Czech Republic were evaluated. The main evaluation criteria were scion affinity, sapling yield, and selected growth characteristics. The results show that the best affinity was achieved with the Adesoto (92.0%) and the Torinel (90.0%) rootstocks. Moderate levels of affinity were found for Brompton (84.2%) and St. Julien A (80.0%) rootstocks. Weak affinity was found only for the rootstock Wavit (52.7%). The economically significant trait is the yield of saplings; here, the highest yields were obtained with the Adesoto rootstock (88.4%) and the Japanese plum variety ‘Black Star’ (89.3%). Generally, the Adesoto and Torinel rootstocks proved to be the most suitable for use with Japanese plum varieties.
Fusarium Species Associated with Diseases of Major Tropical Fruit Crops
Authors: Zakaria Latiffah
Published: March 2023

Mango, banana, papaya, pineapple, and avocado are categorized as major tropical fruits grown for local consumption, export, and sources of income to the growers. These fruit crops are susceptible to infection by Fusarium in the field, and after harvest, it causes root rot, vascular wilt, stem rot, and fruit rot. Among the most common and economically important Fusarium species associated with diseases of major fruit are F. oxysporum and F. solani, which are prevalent in tropical regions. Other species include F. incarnatum, F. proliferatum, and F. verticilliodes. Most of these species have a wide host range and infect different parts of the plant. Due to the economic importance of these fruit crops, this review highlights the diseases and Fusarium species that infect fruit crops in the field as well as after harvest. Updated information on Fusarium species infecting major tropical fruit crops is important as disease management in the field and after harvest often relies on the causal pathogens. Moreover, major fruit crops are traded worldwide, and newly recorded species associated with these fruit crops are important for biosecurity purposes. Information on the diseases and causal pathogens may help to facilitate routine diagnosis and planning of suitable plant disease management methods.
Academic Passion and Subjective Well-Being among Female Research Reserve Talents: The Roles of Psychological Resilience and Academic Climate
Authors: Yin Zijun , Xuan Bin , Zheng Xiaoyan
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between academic passion (AP) and subjective well-being (SWB), along with the mediating role of psychological resilience (PR) and the moderating role of academic climate (AC), among Chinese female research talent in reserve. A convenience sampling method was used to select 304 female master’s degree students from several universities in the central region of China a questionnaire survey. The results show that: (1) AP has a positive predictive effect on the SWB of female reserve research talents; (2) PR partially mediated the relationship between the AP and SWB of female reserve research talents; (3) AC moderated the relationship between the AP and SWB of female reserve research talents. Thus, the findings of this study support a moderated mediation model that explores the relationship between AP and SWB for female research backups, with PR as the mediating variable and AC as the moderating variable. These findings provide a new perspective with which to explore the mechanisms influencing the subjective well-being of female research reserves.
Health and Wellness Tourists’ Motivation and Behavior Intention: The Role of Perceived Value
Authors: Gan Ting , Zheng Jiansong , Li Wei , Li Jiaxin , Shen Junxian
Published: March 2023

In recent years, with the rapid change of people’s health concept, health and wellness tourism has shown a vigorous development trend. However, existing literature has been lacking on travelers’ behavioral intentions, influenced by their motivation in health and wellness tourism. To fill in this gap, we designed scales of tourists’ behavioral intention and motivation in health and wellness tourism and investigated the aforementioned effects, with a sample of 493 visitors who have traveled in health and wellness tourism. Factor analysis and structural equation models were applied to explore the relations among motivation, perceived value, and behavioral intention in health and wellness tourism. The results indicate that health and wellness tourists’ motivation significantly positively predicts their behavior intentions. Travelers’ perceived value of health and wellness tourism significantly partially mediates the associations between their behavioral intention and escape motivation, attractive motivation, environmental motivation, as well as interpersonal motivation. No empirical evidence supports the mediating role of perceived value in the correlation between consumption motivation and behavioral intention. Health and wellness tourism industries are encouraged to meet the intrinsic motivation of travelers and make them perceive the value of this kind of tourism, which in turn promotes tourists’ choice, evaluation, and satisfaction of health and wellness tourism.
The Effects on Energy Markets of Achieving a 1.5 °C Scenario
Authors: Lindholt Lars , Wei Taoyuan
Published: March 2023

Net zero emission scenarios are aligned with the criteria for the Paris Agreement to keep global warming below 1.5 °C. By soft-linking an energy model with a macroeconomic model, we create a similar pathway to the net zero emission scenario from the International Energy Agency (IEA) to 2050 both of demand for fossil fuels and total CO2 emissions. Soft-linking entails that we insert endogenous variables from one model into the other model. We implement measures such as CO2 taxes, improved energy efficiency, more renewables in electricity production and other sectors, easier substitution between electricity and fossil fuels for final users, and drastically limiting future production of oil, gas and coal. Our conclusion is that net zero is possible by introducing very strict measures, e.g., a high rate of energy efficiency improvement, far above what has been achieved in the past. While our partial equilibrium energy model, similar to the IEA model, overlooks the potential rebound effects, i.e., more energy used by consumers due to lower prices caused by energy efficiency improvement, our macroeconomic model does capture the rebound effects and has to implement stricter supply-side measures to reduce fossil fuel use to achieve the 1.5 °C scenario.
Poor Self-Rated Health and Associated Factors among Older Persons in Malaysia: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Sahril Norhafizah , Chan Yee Mang , Chan Ying Ying , Ahmad Noor Ani , Kassim Mohd Shaiful Azlan , Shahein Nik Adilah , Rezali Muhammad Solihin , Abd Razak Mohamad Aznuddin , Tahir Fatin Athirah , Ab Wahab Nor’ain , Shamsuddin Norliza , Adnan Muhammad Azri Adam , Khalil Muhamad Khairul Nazrin , Liew Siaw Hun
Published: March 2023

Objective: This study aims to determine the prevalence of poor self-rated health (SRH) in Malaysia and its association with sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle behavior, chronic diseases, depression, and functional limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs) among older persons. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting, participants, and outcome measures: We used data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2018, a nationwide community-based study. This study was conducted using a two-stage stratified cluster sampling design. Older persons were defined as persons aged 60 years and above. SRH was assessed using the question “How do you rate your general health?” and the answers were “very good”, “good”, “moderate”, “not good”, and “very bad”. SRH was then grouped into two categories; “Good” (very good and good) and “Poor” (moderate, not good, and very bad). Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were conducted using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The prevalence of poor SRH among older persons was 32.6%. Poor SRH was significantly related to physical inactivity, depression, and limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs). Multiple logistic regression revealed that poor SRH was positively associated with those who had depression (aOR 2.92, 95% CI:2.01,4.24), limitations in ADLs (aOR 1.82, 95% CI: 1.31, 2.54), low individual income (aOR 1.66, 95% CI:1.22, 2.26), physical inactivity (aOR 1.40, 95% CI:1.08, 1.82), and hypertension (aOR 1.23, 95% CI:1.02, 1.49). Conclusions: Older persons with depression, limitations in ADLs, low income, physical inactivity, and hypertension were significantly associated with poor SRH. These findings provide information to aid health personnel and policymakers in the development and implementation of health promotion and disease prevention programs, as well as adequate evidence in planning different levels of care for the older population.
Autogenic Training in Mental Disorders: What Can We Expect?
Authors: Breznoscakova Dagmar , Kovanicova Milana , Sedlakova Eva , Pallayova Maria
Published: March 2023

Autogenic training (AT) is a well-established self-induced relaxation technique based on autosuggestion. From the past two decades, an increasing number of AT studies strongly suggests the practical usefulness of psychophysiological relaxation in the area of medicine. Despite this interest, to date, limited critical clinical reflection on the application and effects of AT in mental disorders exists. The present paper reviews psychophysiological, psychopathological, and clinical aspects of AT in persons with mental disorders with emphasis on implications for future research and practice. Based on a formal literature search, 29 reported studies (7 meta-analyses/systematic reviews) were identified that examined the effects and impact of AT on mental disorders. The main psychophysiological effects of AT include autonomic cardiorespiratory changes paralleled by central nervous system activity modifications and psychological outputs. Studies demonstrate consistent efficacy of AT in reducing anxiety and medium range positive effects for mild-to-moderate depression. The impact on bipolar disorders, psychotic disorders, and acute stress disorder remains unexplored. As an add-on intervention psychotherapy technique with beneficial outcome on psychophysiological functioning, AT represents a promising avenue towards expanding research findings of brain–body links beyond the current limits of the prevention and clinical management of number of mental disorders.
Literature Review on Power Battery Echelon Reuse and Recycling from a Circular Economy Perspective
Authors: Nie Yongyou , Wang Yuhan , Li Lu , Liao Haolan
Published: March 2023

Developing new energy vehicles (NEVs) is necessary to grow the low-carbon vehicle industry. Many concentrated end-of-life (EoL) power batteries will cause large-scale environmental pollution and safety accidents when the time comes to replace the first generation of batteries if improper recycling and disposal methods are utilized. Significant negative externalities will result for the environment and other economic entities. When recycling EoL power batteries, some countries need to solve problems about lower recycling rates, unclear division of echelon utilization scenarios, and incomplete recycling systems. Therefore, this paper first analyzes representative countries’ power battery recycling policies and finds out the reasons for the low recycling rate in some countries. It is also found that echelon utilization is the critical link to EoL power battery recycling. Secondly, this paper summarizes the existing recycling models and systems to form a complete closed-loop recycling process from the two stages of consumer recycling and corporate disposal of batteries. The policies and recycling technologies are highly concerned with echelon utilization, but few studies focus on analyzing application scenarios of echelon utilization. Therefore, this paper combines cases to delineate the echelon utilization scenarios clearly. Based on this, the 4R EoL power battery recycling system is proposed, which improves the existing recycling system and can recycle EoL power batteries efficiently. Finally, this paper analyzes the existing policy problems and existing technical challenges. Based on the actual situation and future development trends, we propose development suggestions from the government, enterprises, and consumers to achieve the maximum reused of EoL power batteries.
Peer Relationship Profiles among Early Adolescents from Low-Income Families: The Unique and Combined Effects of Attachment to Mothers and Conscientiousness
Authors: Lan Xiaoyu , Wang Chen , Cui Guanyu
Published: March 2023

Using research data gathered from multiple sources, the current study explored positive aspects of peer relationship profiles (indexed by peer-nominated acceptance and self-reported friendships) in a person-centered approach among early adolescents from low-income families. Moreover, this study investigated the unique and combined associations of adolescents’ attachment to mothers and parent-rated conscientiousness with emerging peer relationship profiles. A total of 295 early adolescents (42.7% girls; Mage = 10.94, SD = 0.80) were involved in this study. Latent profile analysis identified three empirically derived peer relationship profiles: “isolated” (14.6%), “socially competent” (16.3%), and “average” (69.1%). Moderation analyses further showed that adolescents with secure attachment to mothers tend to have group memberships in socially competent and average profiles than the isolated profile. Such an association pattern was more heightened for those with higher conscientiousness (versus lower conscientiousness).
Effects of the Carbon Credit Policy on the Capital-Constrained Manufacturer’s Remanufacturing and Emissions Decisions
Authors: Wang Yongjian , Wang Fei , Li Wenbo
Published: March 2023

Considering the effect of carbon emission factors on financing, a carbon credit policy was introduced to explore the capital-constrained manufacturer’s remanufacturing and carbon emission decisions. Meanwhile, this paper also explored the bank’s optimal strategy according to the manufacturer’s decision feedback. The results showed the following: (1) The restraining effect of the carbon threshold will directly affect whether the carbon credit policy can positively affect manufacturers’ remanufacturing and carbon emissions. (2) When the carbon savings level of remanufactured products is higher, the carbon credit policy can better promote remanufacturing activities and effectively control total carbon emissions. (3) The bank’s optimal preferential interest rate for loans is inversely correlated with the carbon threshold. Moreover, under a given carbon threshold, a higher preferential interest rate for loans is also conducive to manufacturers carrying out more or a more extensive range of remanufacturing activities while banks maximize total profit. Based on these findings, this paper also provided managerial insights for manufacturers and policy implications for policy-makers.
Design Rainfall Change of Rainwater Source Control Facility to Meet Future Scenarios in Beijing
Authors: Wang Xuerao , Zhao Zhiyong , Zhang Zhiming , Ren Meifang , Sagris Thomas
Published: March 2023

Rainwater source control facilities are essential to sponge city construction in China. Their size is determined based on historical rainfall data. However, with global warming and rapid urban development, rainfall characteristics have also changed, potentially leading to the failure of rainwater source- control facilities to manage surface water in the future. In this study, the design rainfall’s change and spatial distribution are analyzed using historical (1961–2014) observation rainfall data and future (2020–2100) projection data of three CMIP6 climate models. The results show that EC-Earth3 and GFDL-ESM4 project that future design rainfall will increase. EC-Earth3 projects a significant increase, while MPI-ESM1-2 projects that the design rainfall will decrease significantly. From the perspective of space, the design rainfall isoline in Beijing has always increased from northwest to southeast. In the historical period, the difference in design rainfall in different regions has reached 19 mm, and this regional heterogeneity shows an increasing trend in the future projection of EC-Earth3 and GFDL-ESM4. The difference in design rainfall in different regions is 26.2 mm and 21.7 mm, respectively. Therefore, it is necessary to consider future rainfall changes in the design of rainwater source control facilities. The relationship curve between the volume capture ratio (VCR) of annual rainfall and design rainfall based on the rainfall data of the project site or region should be analyzed to determine the design rainfall of the rainwater source control facilities.
Removal of Antibiotic Resistance Genes from Animal Wastewater by Ecological Treatment Technology Based on Plant Absorption
Authors: Wang Han , Du Delin , Ding Yongzhen , Zhang Keqiang , Zhi Suli
Published: March 2023

With the aim of controlling the pollution of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in livestock and poultry wastewater, this paper highlights an ecological treatment technology based on plant absorption and comprehensively discusses the removal effect, driving factors, removal mechanism, and distribution characteristics of ARGs in plant tissues. The review shows that ecological treatment technology based on plant absorption has gradually become an important method of wastewater treatment of livestock and poultry breeding and has a good ARG removal effect. In plant treatment ecosystems, microbial community structure is the main driver of ARGs, while mobile genetic elements, other pollutants, and environmental factors also affect the growth and decline of ARGs. The role of plant uptake and adsorption of matrix particles, which provide attachment sites for microorganisms and contaminants, cannot be ignored. The distribution characteristics of ARGs in different plant tissues were clarified and their transfer mechanism was determined. In conclusion, the main driving factors affecting ARGs in the ecological treatment technology of plant absorption should be grasped, and the removal mechanism of ARGs by root adsorption, rhizosphere microorganisms, and root exudates should be deeply explored, which will be the focus of future research.
Telerehabilitation as a Therapeutic Exercise Tool versus Face-to-Face Physiotherapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Muñoz-Tomás Mª Teresa , Burillo-Lafuente Mario , Vicente-Parra Araceli , Sanz-Rubio Mª Concepción , Suarez-Serrano Carmen , Marcén-Román Yolanda , Franco-Sierra Mª Ángeles
Published: March 2023

Digital physiotherapy, often referred to as “Telerehabilitation”, consists of applying rehabilitation using telecommunication technologies. The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise when it is telematically prescribed. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, SportDiscus and PEDro (30 December 2022). The results were obtained by entering a combination of MeSH or Emtree terms with keywords related to telerehabilitation and exercise therapy. RCTs on patients over 18 years and two groups were included, one working with therapeutic exercise through telerehabilitation and one working with conventional physiotherapy group. Results: a total of 779 works were found. However, after applying the inclusion criteria, only 11 were selected. Telerehabilitation is most frequently used to treat musculoskeletal, cardiac and neurological pathologies. The preferred telerehabilitation tools are videoconferencing systems, telemonitoring and online platforms. Exercise programs ranged from 10 to 30 min and were similar in both intervention and control groups. In all the studies, results proved to be similar for telerehabilitation and face-to-face rehabilitation in both groups when measuring functionality, quality of life and satisfaction. Conclusion: this review generally concludes that intervention through telerehabilitation programs is as feasible and efficient as conventional physiotherapy in terms of functionality level and quality of life. In addition, telerehabilitation shows high levels of patients’ satisfaction and adherence, being values equivalent to traditional rehabilitation.
Correction: Martínez-Valverde et al. Health Needs Assessment: Chronic Kidney Disease Secondary to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Population without Social Security, Mexico 2016–2032. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 9010
Authors: Martínez-Valverde Silvia , Zepeda-Tello Rodrigo , Castro-Ríos Angélica , Toledano-Toledano Filiberto , Reyes-Morales Hortensia , Rodríguez-Matías Adrián , Durán-Arenas Juan Luis Gerardo
Published: March 2023

In the original publication [...]
Disparities of Health Program Information Systems in Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Indonesian Health Facility Research 2019
Authors: Idaiani Sri , Hendarwan Harimat , Herawati Maria Holly
Published: March 2023

Although a recording and reporting format for health centers already exists for Indonesia’s standard information system, numerous health applications still need to meet the needs of each program. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the potential disparities in information systems in the application and data collection of health programs among Indonesian community health centers (CHCs) based on provinces and regions. This cross-sectional research used data from 9831 CHCs from the Health Facilities Research 2019 (RIFASKES). Significance was assessed using a chi-square test and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The number of applications was depicted on a map using the spmap command with STATA version 14. It showed that region 2, which represented Java and Bali, was the best, followed by regions 1, which comprised Sumatra Island and its surroundings, and 3, Nusa Tenggara. The highest mean, equaling that of Java, was discovered in three provinces of region 1, namely, Jambi, Lampung, and Bangka Belitung. Furthermore, Papua and West Papua had less than 60% for all types of data-storage programs. Hence, there is a disparity in the health information system in Indonesia by province and region. The results of this analysis recommend future improvement of the CHCs’ information systems.
Sleep Disturbances and Mental Well-Being of Preschool Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Mexico
Authors: León Rojas Daniela , Castorena Torres Fabiola , Alvarado Ramos Salomon , del Castillo Morales Alfredo , Rodríguez-de-Ita Julieta
Published: March 2023

COVID-19 pandemic confinement caused changes in families and children’s routines worldwide. Studies conducted at the beginning of the pandemic have examined the harmful effects of these changes on mental health, including sleep disturbances. As sleep is essential for optimal childhood development, this study was designed to determine preschool-aged (3–6 years old) children’s sleep parameters and mental well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico. Using a cross-sectional design, a survey was applied to parents of preschool children, inquiring about their children’s confinement status, routine changes, and electronics use. The parents responded to the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire to assess children’s sleep and mental well-being. To provide objective sleep data, the children wore wrist actigraphy for seven days. Fifty-one participants completed the assessment. The children’s mean age was 5.2 years, and the prevalence of sleep disturbances was 68.6%. The use of electronic tablets in the bedroom near bedtime and symptoms of mental health deterioration (i.e., emotional distress and behavioral difficulties) were associated with sleep disturbances and their severity. The COVID-19 pandemic’s confinement-related routine changes greatly impacted preschool children’s sleep and well-being. We recommend establishing age-tailored interventions to manage children at higher risk.
Mental Health Conditions– and Substance Use—Associated Emergency Department Visits during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nevada, USA
Authors: Mojtahedi Zahra , Guo Ying , Kim Pearl , Khawari Parsa , Ephrem Hailey , Shen Jay J.
Published: March 2023

Background—Mental health conditions and substance use are linked. During the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health conditions and substance use increased, while emergency department (ED) visits decreased in the U.S. There is limited information regarding how the pandemic has affected ED visits for patients with mental health conditions and substance use. Objectives—This study examined the changes in ED visits associated with more common and serious mental health conditions (suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and schizophrenia) and more commonly used substances (opioids, cannabis, alcohol, and cigarettes) in Nevada during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 compared with the pre-pandemic period. Methods—The Nevada State ED database from 2018 to 2021 was used (n = 4,185,416 ED visits). The 10th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases identified suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, schizophrenia, and the use of opioids, cannabis, alcohol, and cigarette smoking. Seven multivariable logistic regression models were developed for each of the conditions after adjusting for age, gender, race/ethnicity, and payer source. The reference year was set as 2018. Results—During both of the pandemic years (2020 and 2021), particularly in 2020, the odds of ED visits associated with suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, schizophrenia, cigarette smoking, and alcohol use were all significantly higher than those in 2018. Conclusions—Our findings indicate the impact of the pandemic on mental health- and substance use-associated ED visits and provide empirical evidence for policymakers to direct and develop decisive public health initiatives aimed at addressing mental health and substance use-associated health service utilization, especially during the early stages of large-scale public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
How Neighbors Influence Rice–Crayfish Integrated System Adoption: Evidence from 980 Farmers in the Lower and Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River
Authors: Liu Ke , Qi Zhenhong , Tan Li , Hu Canwei
Published: March 2023

Rice-aquatic animal integrated systems can alleviate food and environmental insecurity. Understanding how this practice is adopted by farmers is significant for promoting the development of the agricultural industry. Given the information inadequacy and information frictions in agricultural society in China, farmers are susceptible to the behaviors of their neighbors through social interaction. This paper defines neighboring groups that are both spatially and socially connected to identify whether neighbors influence farmers’ adoption of rice–crayfish integrated systems using a sample in the lower and middle reaches of the Yangtze River in China. The findings reveal that for every one-unit increase in neighbors’ adoption behavior, the probability of farmers’ adoption increases by 0.367 units. Therefore, our results may have great value for policymakers seeking to take advantage of the neighborhood effect to complement formal extension systems and promote the developments of China’s ecological agriculture.
β-Adrenoreceptors as Therapeutic Targets for Ocular Tumors and Other Eye Diseases—Historical Aspects and Nowadays Understanding
Authors: Böhm Elsa Wilma , Stoffelns Bernhard , Gericke Adrian
Published: March 2023

β-adrenoreceptors (ARs) are members of the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), and are activated by catecholamines, such as epinephrine and norepinephrine. Three subtypes of β-ARs (β1, β2, and β3) have been identified with different distributions among ocular tissues. Importantly, β-ARs are an established target in the treatment of glaucoma. Moreover, β-adrenergic signaling has been associated with the development and progression of various tumor types. Hence, β-ARs are a potential therapeutic target for ocular neoplasms, such as ocular hemangioma and uveal melanoma. This review aims to discuss the expression and function of individual β-AR subtypes in ocular structures, as well as their role in the treatment of ocular diseases, including ocular tumors.
Fatty Acid Composition and Metabolism in Leishmania Parasite Species: Potential Biomarkers or Drug Targets for Leishmaniasis?
Authors: Leroux Marine , Luquain-Costaz Céline , Lawton Philippe , Azzouz-Maache Samira , Delton Isabelle
Published: March 2023

Fatty acids have received growing interest in Leishmania biology with the characterization of the enzymes allowing the complete fatty acid synthesis of this trypanosomatid parasite. This review presents a comparative analysis of the fatty acid profiles of the major classes of lipids and phospholipids in different species of Leishmania with cutaneous or visceral tropism. Specificities relating to the parasite forms, resistance to antileishmanial drugs, and host/parasite interactions are described as well as comparisons with other trypanosomatids. Emphasis is placed on polyunsaturated fatty acids and their metabolic and functional specificities, in particular, their conversion into oxygenated metabolites that are inflammatory mediators able to modulate metacyclogenesis and parasite infectivity. The impact of lipid status on the development of leishmaniasis and the potential of fatty acids as therapeutic targets or candidates for nutritional interventions are discussed.
Impact of Antithyroperoxidase Antibodies (Anti-TPO) on Ovarian Reserve and Early Embryo Development in Assisted Reproductive Technology Cycles
Authors: Safarian Galina Kh. , Niauri Dariko A. , Kogan Igor Y. , Bespalova Olesya N. , Dzhemlikhanova Lyailya Kh. , Lesik Elena A. , Komarova Evgeniya M. , Krikheli Inna O. , Obedkova Ksenia V. , Tkachenko Nataliya N. , Milyutina Yulia P. , Gzgzyan Aleksandr M. , Shoenfeld Yehuda
Published: March 2023

Autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) is one of the most common endocrinopathies and is more prevalent in women. It becomes evident that the circulating antithyroid antibodies that often follow AITD have effects on many tissues, including ovaries, and therefore that this common morbidity might have an impact on female fertility, the investigation of which is the aim of the present research. Ovarian reserve, ovarian response to stimulation and early embryo development in infertile patients with thyroid autoimmunity were assessed in 45 women with thyroid autoimmunity and 45 age-matched control patients undergoing infertility treatment. It was demonstrated that the presence of anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies is associated with lower serum anti-Müllerian hormone levels and antral follicle count. Further investigation revealed the higher prevalence of sub-optimal response to ovarian stimulation in TAI-positive women, lower fertilization rate and lower number of high-quality embryos in this group of patients. The cut-off value for follicular fluid anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody affecting the above-mentioned parameters was determined to be 105.0 IU/mL, highlighting the necessity of closer monitoring in couples seeking infertility treatment with ART.
The Role of BCL-2 and PD-1/PD-L1 Pathway in Pathogenesis of Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Authors: Kuszczak Bartłomiej , Wróbel Tomasz , Wicherska-Pawłowska Katarzyna , Rybka Justyna
Published: March 2023

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) belong to a group of clonal bone marrow malignancies. In light of the emergence of new molecules, a significant contribution to the understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease is the study of the B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) and the programmed cell death receptor 1 (PD-1) protein and its ligands. BCL-2-family proteins are involved in the regulation of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Disruptions in their interactions promote the progression and resistance of MDSs. They have become an important target for specific drugs. Bone marrow cytoarchitecture may prove to be a predictor of response to its use. The challenge is the observed resistance to venetoclax, for which the MCL-1 protein may be largely responsible. Molecules with the potential to break the associated resistance include S63845, S64315, chidamide and arsenic trioxide (ATO). Despite promising in vitro studies, the role of PD-1/PD-L1 pathway inhibitors has not yet been established. Knockdown of the PD-L1 gene in preclinical studies was associated with increased levels of BCL-2 and MCL-1 in lymphocytes T, which could increase their survival and promote tumor apoptosis. A trial (NCT03969446) is currently underway to combine inhibitors from both groups.
Proteomics as a New-Generation Tool for Studying Moulds Related to Food Safety and Quality
Authors: Álvarez Micaela , Andrade María J. , Núñez Félix , Rodríguez Mar , Delgado Josué
Published: March 2023

Mould development in foodstuffs is linked to both spoilage and the production of mycotoxins, provoking food quality and food safety concerns, respectively. The high-throughput technology proteomics applied to foodborne moulds is of great interest to address such issues. This review presents proteomics approaches useful for boosting strategies to minimise the mould spoilage and the hazard related to mycotoxins in food. Metaproteomics seems to be the most effective method for mould identification despite the current problems related to the bioinformatics tool. More interestingly, different high resolution mass spectrometry tools are suitable for evaluating the proteome of foodborne moulds able to unveil the mould’s response under certain environmental conditions and the presence of biocontrol agents or antifungals, being sometimes combined with a method with limited ability to separate proteins, the two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. However, the matrix complexity, the high ranges of protein concentrations needed and the performing of multiple steps are some of the proteomics limitations for the application to foodborne moulds. To overcome some of these limitations, model systems have been developed and proteomics applied to other scientific fields, such as library-free data independent acquisition analyses, the implementation of ion mobility, and the evaluation of post-translational modifications, are expected to be gradually implemented in this field for avoiding undesirable moulds in foodstuffs.
Transcription Factor ZmNAC20 Improves Drought Resistance by Promoting Stomatal Closure and Activating Expression of Stress-Responsive Genes in Maize
Authors: Liu Hui , Song Songbo , Liu Mengyao , Mu Yangwei , Li Ying , Xuan Yuxin , Niu Liangjie , Zhang Hui , Wang Wei
Published: March 2023

Drought is a major environmental threat that limits crop growth, development, and productivity worldwide. Improving drought resistance with genetic engineering methods is necessary to tackle global climate change. It is well known that NAC (NAM, ATAF and CUC) transcription factors play a critical role in coping with drought stress in plants. In this study, we identified an NAC transcription factor ZmNAC20, which regulates drought stress response in maize. ZmNAC20 expression was rapidly upregulated by drought and abscisic acid (ABA). Under drought conditions, the ZmNAC20-overexpressing plants had higher relative water content and survival rate than the wild-type maize inbred B104, suggesting that overexpression of ZmNAC20 improved drought resistance in maize. The detached leaves of ZmNAC20-overexpressing plants lost less water than those of wild-type B104 after dehydration. Overexpression of ZmNAC20 promoted stomatal closure in response to ABA. ZmNAC20 was localized in the nucleus and regulated the expression of many genes involved in drought stress response using RNA-Seq analysis. The study indicated that ZmNAC20 improved drought resistance by promoting stomatal closure and activating the expression of stress-responsible genes in maize. Our findings provide a valuable gene and new clues on improving crop drought resistance.
The Role of m6A Modifications in B-Cell Development and B-Cell-Related Diseases
Authors: Wang Shuqi , Li Huanxiang , Lian Zhengxing , Deng Shoulong
Published: March 2023

B cells are a class of professional antigen-presenting cells that produce antibodies to mediate humoral immune response and participate in immune regulation. m6A modification is the most common RNA modification in mRNA; it involves almost all aspects of RNA metabolism and can affect RNA splicing, translation, stability, etc. This review focuses on the B-cell maturation process as well as the role of three m6A modification-related regulators—writer, eraser, and reader—in B-cell development and B-cell-related diseases. The identification of genes and modifiers that contribute to immune deficiency may shed light on regulatory requirements for normal B-cell development and the underlying mechanism of some common diseases.
Overcoming Acquired Drug Resistance to Cancer Therapies through Targeted STAT3 Inhibition
Authors: Singh Sunanda , Gomez Hector J. , Thakkar Shreya , Singh Samara P. , Parihar Ashutosh S.
Published: March 2023

Anti-neoplastic agents for cancer treatment utilize many different mechanisms of action and, when combined, can result in potent inhibition of cancer growth. Combination therapies can result in long-term, durable remission or even cure; however, too many times, these anti-neoplastic agents lose their efficacy due to the development of acquired drug resistance (ADR). In this review, we evaluate the scientific and medical literature that elucidate STAT3-mediated mechanisms of resistance to cancer therapeutics. Herein, we have found that at least 24 different anti-neoplastic agents—standard toxic chemotherapeutic agents, targeted kinase inhibitors, anti-hormonal agents, and monoclonal antibodies—that utilize the STAT3 signaling pathway as one mechanism of developing therapeutic resistance. Targeting STAT3, in combination with existing anti-neoplastic agents, may prove to be a successful therapeutic strategy to either prevent or even overcome ADR to standard and novel cancer therapies.