bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perinatal Exposure to HIV Infection: The Experience of Craiova Regional Centre, Romania
Authors: Marcu Eugenia-Andreea , Dinescu Sorin-Nicolae , Pădureanu Vlad , Dumitrescu Florentina , Diaconu Radu
Published: February 2022

Background and objectives: HIV infection in pregnant women can be responsible for a number of consequences during pregnancy, such as: maternal anaemia, miscarriage, low birth weight, and preterm birth. The objectives of this study were to determine the maternal–foetal transmission rate of HIV among pregnant women living with HIV from Craiova Regional Centre in order to assess the risk factors for mother-to-child transmission of HIV and to identify the characteristics of newborns perinatally exposed to HIV. Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2020, including children born to HIV-positive mothers. Results: The studied group included 138 newborns and was divided into two subgroups: group A, which included 10 HIV-infected infants; and group B, which included 128 uninfected infants. The mother-to-child transmission rate was 3.5% for women to whom all prophylaxis standards were applied. We found a statistically significant correlation between the level of maternal HIV viremia and perinatal HIV transmission (p = 0.01). Preterm birth and low birth weight were associated with perinatal transmission of the infection. Conclusions: Perinatal transmission of HIV infection during our study was associated with inconsistent application of screening for HIV infection among pregnant women, lack of antiretroviral therapy, poor adherence to treatment, and detectable HIV viral load during pregnancy.
Future Developments in the Treatment of AL Amyloidosis
Authors: Theodorakakou Foteini , Fotiou Despina , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Kastritis Efstathios
Published: February 2022

The treatment of AL amyloidosis has evolved, and outcomes have improved, but primarily for patients with low or intermediate-risk disease. Recent advances have been limited to improvements in anti-clonal therapies, which, alone, cannot change the poor prognosis of patients with high-risk disease. Thus, new strategies are needed that combine different approaches to the treatment of the disease. Targeted therapies against plasma/B-cell clones that avoid chemotherapy or potentially cardiotoxic drugs may improve the depth of hematologic responses and reduce complications. Amyloid fibril and light-chain oligomer targeting may reduce direct toxicity and enhance tissue clearance. Future combinations should be tailored to clone characteristics and specific amyloid properties, but early identification of those at high risk to develop AL amyloidosis will also be integrated into management algorithms.
Risk and Protective Factors in Adolescent Suicidal Behaviour: A Network Analysis
Authors: Fonseca-Pedrero Eduardo , Al-Halabí Susana , Pérez-Albéniz Alicia , Debbané Martin
Published: February 2022

Given that death by suicide continues to rank among the top three causes of death during adolescence, new psychological models may contribute critical insight towards understanding the complex interactions between risk and protective factors in suicidal behaviour. The main objective of this study was to analyse the psychological network structure of suicidal behaviour and putative risk and protective factors in school-aged adolescents. Methods: Stratified random cluster sampling was performed. The final sample comprised 1790 students (53.7% female, M = 15.7 years, SD = 1.26). Instruments were administered to assess suicidal behaviour, emotional and behavioural difficulties, prosocial behaviour, subjective well-being, self-esteem, depressive symptomatology, academic performance, socio-economic status, school engagement, bullying, and cyberbullying. Results: In the estimated psychological network, the node with the highest strength was depressive symptomatology, and that with the highest expected influence value was bullying. Suicidal behaviour was positively connected to symptoms of depression and behavioural problems. In addition, suicidal behaviour was negatively connected to self-esteem and personal well-being. The results of the stability analysis indicated that the network was accurately estimated. Conclusions: Suicidal behaviour can be conceptualised as a dynamic, complex system of cognitive, emotional, and affective characteristics. New psychological models allow us to analyse and understand human behaviour from a new perspective, suggesting new forms of conceptualisation, evaluation, intervention, and prevention.
Mental Health of Nurses during the Fourth Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland
Authors: Dziedzic Beata , Kobos Ewa , Sienkiewicz Zofia , Idzik Anna
Published: February 2022

In the face of the current COVID-19 pandemic crisis, healthcare professionals, including nurses who provide direct care for patients, are at particular risk of mental health problems. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress among nurses working in healthcare facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study. A total of 333 professionally active nurses participated in the study. Data was collected in the period from 10 November to 20 November 2021. We collected sociodemographic data and used the short form of Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) to assess the mental health among nurses. Results: Severe and very severe symptoms of depression were found in 23.1% of nurses, whereas moderate symptoms were detected in 30.3%. High to very high levels of anxiety were observed in 46.5% of respondents, while 25.8% of nurses showed a moderate level of anxiety. Moderate and high levels of stress were found in 35.4% and 14.1% of the respondents, respectively. Contact with a patient suspected of having SARS-CoV-2 infection was a significant predictor of depressive symptoms. Gender, workplace, and contact with patients suspected of SARS-CoV-2 infection and patients with COVID-19 were significant predictors of anxiety, whereas contact with patients suspected of being infected with SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 patients was a significant predictor of stress. Conclusions: High scores for depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress among Polish nurses during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic are indicative of a direct threat to the mental health of nurses. Targeted support strategies need to be developed and implemented to prevent the deterioration of mental health in this group.
The Effect of Periodontal Treatment on Clinical and Biological Indicators, Quality of Life, and Oral Health in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Posada-López Adriana , Botero Javier Enrique , Pineda-Tamayo Ricardo Antonio , Agudelo-Suárez Andrés A.
Published: February 2022

Non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) has been shown to have systemic effects. It has been suggested that, similar to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), periodontitis (PD) has an impact on general health, in terms of psychological, physical, and social aspects. This study determines the effect of periodontal treatment in RA activity, health-related quality of life, and oral health self-perception before and after periodontal treatment in RA patients. A quasi-experimental, prospective, non-randomized study was conducted, and 52 patients were included in the study. Periodontal parameters and the instruments disease activity score-28 (DAS-28), SF-36, and OHIP-14 were measured at baseline and at 3 months after NSPT. All differences were statistically assessed. The study protocol was registered in Clinical Trials (NCT04658615). No statistically significant differences were found in the scores of DAS-28 before and after the intervention in the group with PD and reduced periodontium. When the effect of periodontal treatment was analyzed in the group of 29 patients who were followed up, it was found that there were statistically significant differences before and after in variables such as psychological distress, emotional role, and mental health, which indicates an improvement in the scores of these variables. NSPT influenced the health-related quality of life measured with SF-36 and OHIP-14 in patients with RA. In conclusion, NSPT has an effect on self-reported quality of life and health indicators more than the RA activity as measured with DAS-28. However, the clinical effect of periodontal treatment in RA patients provides important data to support periodontal care in patients.
Intimate Relationships and Stroke: Piloting a Dyadic Intervention to Improve Depression
Authors: Terrill Alexandra L. , Reblin Maija , MacKenzie Justin J. , Baucom Brian R. W. , Einerson Jackie , Cardell Beth , Richards Lorie G. , Majersik Jennifer J.
Published: February 2022

Stroke affects not only the survivor but also their romantic partner. Post-stroke depression is common in both partners and can have significant negative consequences, yet few effective interventions are available. The purpose of this study was to pilot test a novel 8-week remotely administered dyadic intervention (ReStoreD) designed to help couples better cope with stroke-related changes and reduce depressive symptoms. Thirty-four cohabitating survivor–partner dyads at least 3 months post-stroke and reporting some changes in mood were enrolled. Depressive symptoms were assessed pre- and post-intervention and at 3-month follow-up. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to assess the effects of ReStoreD over time on depressive symptoms in stroke survivors and their partners. Twenty-six dyads completed the study. Although statistical significance was not reached, there was a large effect size for improvements in depressive symptoms for stroke survivors. There was no significant improvement for partners, and the effect size was minimal. Those with more significant depressive symptoms at baseline were more likely to benefit from the intervention. This pilot study established proof-of-concept by demonstrating that depressive symptoms can be lessened in stroke survivors and partners with more severe depressive symptoms. Future research will establish the efficacy of the intervention in a fully powered study.
Assessing and Qualifying Neighborhood Walkability for Older Adults: Construction and Initial Testing of a Multivariate Spatial Accessibility Model
Authors: Amaya Valkiria , Moulaert Thibauld , Gwiazdzinski Luc , Vuillerme Nicolas
Published: February 2022

Population aging and urban development pose major challenges for societies today. Joining the literature assessing urban accessibility, the present exploratory research developed a multivariate accessibility model based on four independent variables—related to formal and structural urban space—that influence walkability for older adults (pedestrian network; facilities and shops; public benches; and slopes and gradients). The model used ArcGIS software. For the accessibility calculations, we selected two suburban neighborhoods in the conurbation of Grenoble (France) and selected three types of older adults’ profiles to reflect the variety of aging: an older adult in good health, an older adult with a chronic disease, and an older adult with reduced mobility. The results suggest that the accessibility of a neighborhood depends not only on its physical and urban characteristics, but it is also influenced by the physical and health characteristics of its inhabitants. The originality of the model lies mainly in its ability to estimate the spatial accessibility of a territory by taking into account, firstly, objective data such as the physical characteristics and the built environment of the neighborhood through objectification variables that consider such original variables as the presence of benches or the slopes and gradients and, secondly, specific data such as the physical and/or health characteristics of the study population. The measurement of geospatial accessibility could be of great value for public health in urban contexts, which is why relevant tools and methodologies are needed to objectively examine and intervene in public spaces in order to make them age-friendly.
In Whom Do We Trust? A Multifoci Person-Centered Perspective on Institutional Trust during COVID-19
Authors: Jiang Lixin , Bettac Erica L. , Lee Hyun Jung , Probst Tahira M.
Published: February 2022

Institutional trust plays a crucial role when a nation is facing mega crises (e.g., the COVID-19 pandemic) and has implications for employee work experiences and well-being. To date, researchers largely consider how institutional trust or trust in government may predict variables of interest in isolation. However, this variable-centered perspective ignores the possibility that there are subpopulations of employees who may differ in their trust in different institutions (i.e., the state government, the federal government). To address this, we examined institutional trust with two foci (i.e., trust in state government and trust in federal government) from a person-centered perspective. Using latent profile analysis and data from 492 U.S.-based employees, we identified five trust profiles: high trustors, federal trustors, state trustors, the ambivalent, and distrusters, and found that these profiles differentially predicted attitudes towards and behavioral compliance with CDC recommended COVID-19 prevention practices, job insecurity, affective commitment, helping behavior, and psychological well-being.
Lived Experiences of Newly Admitted to Long-Term Care Facilities among Older Adults with Disabilities in Taiwan
Authors: Chien Nai-Hui , Tsai Chin-Hsing , Lin Hung-Ru
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of Taiwanese older adults with disabilities newly admitted to long-term care facilities (LTCFs). A descriptive phenomenological method was used. Colaizzi’s method analysis of 15 participant interviews revealed six themes: “living here is a last resort”, “I don’t like it but still have to live here”, “my needs are not understood”, “looking forward to emotional support”, “practicing the way of survival”, and “trying to make myself better”. The older adults were admitted to the LTCF as they or their family members could not take care of themselves due to their disability. Participants explained their new life in the LTCF was like a prison, it was not easy for their needs to be understood. They used self-adjustment and established relationships with staff in the LTCF in order to live a stable life. They lived their lives with silence and alertness to practice the way of survival. They strived to make themselves better through rehabilitation, taking good care of their bodies, and finding their focus and value of life. It is important to pay attention to the care needs as well as life adjustment problems for newly older adults with disabilities in order to assist them in opening up new life experiences in LTCFs.
Nonlinear Dynamics of Reaction Time and Time Estimation during Repetitive Test
Authors: Iconaru Elena Ioana , Ciucurel Manuela Mihaela , Tudor Mariana , Ciucurel Constantin
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: In this research, we aimed to investigate a computational model of repetitive reaction time (RT) and virtual reaction time (VRT) testing. (2) Methods: The study involved 180 subjects (50 men, 130 women, mean age 31.61 ± 13.56 years). The data were statistically analyzed through the coefficient of variation (CV) and the Poincaré plot indicators. (3) Results: We obtained an excellent level of reliability for both sessions of testing and we put into evidence a relationship of association of the RT and VRT with the subjects’ age, which was more pregnant for RT (p < 0.05). For both RT and VRT data series, we determined a consistent closer association between CV and the Poincaré plot descriptors SD1, SD2 (SD—standard deviation), and the area of the fitting ellipse (AFE) (p < 0.01). We reported an underestimation of the time interval of 2 s during the VRT session of testing, with an average value of CV of VRT, the equivalent of the Weber fraction, of 15.21 ± 8.82%. (4) Conclusions: The present study provides novel evidence that linear and nonlinear analysis of RT and VRT variability during serial testing bring complementary insights to the understanding of complex neurocognitive processes implied in the task execution.
How Do Chinese People View Cyberbullying? A Text Analysis Based on Social Media
Authors: Lu Shan , Zhao Lingbo , Lai Lizu , Shi Congrong , Jiang Wanyue
Published: February 2022

The rise of cyberbullying has been of great concern for the general public. This study aims to explore public attitudes towards cyberbullying on Chinese social media. Cognition and emotion are important components of attitude, and this study innovatively used text analysis to extract the cognition and emotion of the posts. We used a web crawler to collect 53,526 posts related to cyberbullying in Chinese on Sina Weibo in a month, where emotions were detected using the software “Text Mind”, a Chinese linguistic psychological text analysis system, and the content analysis was performed using the Latent Dirichlet Allocation topic model. Sentiment analysis showed the frequency of negative emotion words was the highest in the posts; the frequency of anger, anxiety, and sadness words decreased in turn. The topic model analysis identified three common topics about cyberbullying: critiques on cyberbullying and support for its victims, rational expressions of anger and celebrity worship, and calls for further control. In summary, this study quantitatively reveals the negative attitudes of the Chinese public toward cyberbullying and conveys specific public concerns via three common topics. This will help us to better understand the demands of the Chinese public so that targeted support can be proposed to curb cyberbullying.
The Carbon Emission Reduction Effect of Tourism Economy and Its Formation Mechanism: An Empirical Study of China’s 92 Tourism-Dependent Cities
Authors: Tong Yun , Zhang Rui , He Biao
Published: February 2022

The tourism economy is regarded as an effective way to realize regional sustainable development. Hence, it is of great significance to explore whether and how tourism economy can alleviate regional carbon emission intensity. To this end, a structural equation model (SEM) reflecting the multiple pathways of the carbon emission reduction effect of tourism economy was constructed based on 92 tourism-dependent cities in China, and the existence and formation mechanism of the carbon emission reduction effect of tourism economy were empirically tested. The main findings are as follows: (1) The tourism economy has a significant carbon emission reduction effect in China. Although the direct impact of tourism economy on carbon emission intensity is significantly positive, the indirect impact is significantly negative and stronger than the direct impact. (2) The carbon emission reduction effect of tourism economy presents multiple pathways characteristics. There are single intermediary pathways such as Tourism Economy → Environmental Regulation → Carbon Emission Intensity, Tourism Economy → Opening-Up → Carbon Emission Intensity, and dual intermediary pathways such as Tourism Economy → Opening-Up → Industrial Development → Carbon Emission Intensity, Tourism Economy → Opening-Up → Innovation Capacity → Carbon Emission Intensity. (3) The formation mechanism of the carbon emission reduction effect of tourism economy presents obvious spatial heterogeneity.
Does It Matter Who You Live with during COVID-19 Lockdown? Association of Living Arrangements with Psychosocial Health, Life Satisfaction, and Quality of Life: A Pilot Study
Authors: Xu Zijun , Yu Xiaoyang , Zhang Dexing , Zheng Xiaoxiang , Zhang Zihuang , Lee Rym Chung-Man , Cheung Peter Man-Hin , Wong Samuel Yeung-Shan
Published: February 2022

Background: Living arrangements might greatly impact psychosocial health and quality of life, particularly during the COVID-19 lockdown. This pilot study aimed to examine the association of different common living arrangements with psychosocial health, life satisfaction, and quality of life among Chinese adults during the COVID-19 lockdown. Methods: An anonymous online survey was conducted using convenience sampling through the WeChat application in February 2020. Mental health (Patient Health Questionnaire-2, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2, post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, Patient Health Questionnaire-15, and meaning in life), social health (UCLA-3), quality of life (EQ5D and EQ-VAS), and life satisfaction were measured. Linear regression models were used. Result: The study included 1245 adults (mean age: 34.14 ± 10.71) in China. Compared to other living arrangements, participants who “live with partner and children” or “live with partner, children and parents” were more likely to have better outcomes of mental health, social health, quality of life, and life satisfaction. Participants who “live with parents or grandparents” or “live with partner” were more likely to have better health outcomes compared with those who “live with children” or “live alone”. Conclusion: Living with a partner, children, and/or parents could be a protective factor against poor psychosocial health during lockdown and quarantine.
Language Development in the Second Year of Life: The Case of Children with Sex Chromosome Trisomies Diagnosed before Birth
Authors: Zampini Laura , Lorini Alessandra , Silibello Gaia , Zanchi Paola , Dall’Ara Francesca , Ajmone Paola Francesca , Monti Federico , Lalatta Faustina , Costantino Maria Antonella , Vizziello Paola Giovanna
Published: February 2022

Many individual factors, such as early communicative skills, could play a role in explaining later linguistic outcomes. The detection of predictive variables is fundamental to identifying early the children who need intervention. The present study focuses on children with sex chromosome trisomies (SCTs), genetic conditions with an increased risk of developing language delays or impairments. The aims are to analyse their communicative skills at 18 months of age, and identify significant predictors of their later vocabulary size. Participants were 76 18-month-old children (38 with SCTs, and 38 typically-developing (TD) children). Their communicative skills were assessed during a parent–child play session, and parents filled in a report on their vocabulary development at 18 and 24 months. Children with SCTs showed significantly poorer linguistic skills at 18 months in both preverbal (babbling and gestures) and verbal abilities. A high percentage (nearly 70%) of toddlers with SCTs were late-talking children at 24 months, and those toddlers showed a lower frequency of babbling utterances at 18 months. Early lexical skills, children’s developmental quotient, and being part of the group of toddlers with SCTs were significant predictors of children’s vocabulary size six months later. These variables should be considered when assessing the linguistic competence of a child with SCTs to detect possible early risk factors of future language impairment.
Electrochemical Disinfection of Simulated Ballast Water Using RuO2-TiO2/Ti Electrode
Authors: Annamalai Sivasankar , Futalan Cybelle Concepcion , Ahn Yeonghee
Published: February 2022

The present work investigated the treatment of ballast water via electrochemical disinfection using a RuO2-TiO2/Ti electrode. Batch tests were conducted with simulated ballast water containing Escherichia coli as an indicator organism. The effect of varying NaCl concentrations (1%, 2%, and 3%; w/v) and current densities (0.3, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 mA/cm2) on the inactivation of E. coli was examined. Results showed higher disinfection efficiency of E. coli was obtained at higher NaCl concentration and current density. Complete inactivation of E. coli was attained within 2 and 1 min at 0.3 and 1 mA/cm2, respectively, under 3% NaCl concentration. Meanwhile, complete disinfection at 1 and 2% NaCl concentrations was observed in 6 and 2 min, respectively, using a current density of 0.3 mA/cm2. The 100% inactivation of E. coli was achieved with an energy consumption in the range of 2.8 to 2.9 Wh/m3 under the NaCl concentrations at 1 mA/cm2 and 1 min of electrolysis time. The complete disinfection attained within 1 min meets the D-2 standard (<250 CFU E. coli/100 mL) of ballast water under the International Maritime Organization. The values of energy consumption of the present work are lower than previous reports on the inactivation of E. coli from simulated ballast water.
Salutogenesis at Work as a Facilitator for Implementation? An Explorative Study on the Relationship of Job Demands, Job Resources and the Work-Related Sense of Coherence within a Complex Healthcare Programme
Authors: Cecon Natalia , Krieger Theresia , Salm Sandra , Pfaff Holger , Dresen Antje
Published: February 2022

Background: The implementation of complex healthcare programmes can be challenging for respective service providers (SPs) in implementation settings. A strong work-related sense of coherence (Work-SoC) promotes creation of job resources and potentially facilitates coping with demands that may arise during implementation. In this study, we analyse how SPs’ Work-SoC is influenced by job resources and demands during programme implementation and identify relevant implementation strategies to ensure a salutogenic implementation process. Methods: Qualitative data were collected during the implementation of a new complex psycho-oncological care programme called isPO. Four focus groups and four interviews were conducted with SPs. All were audiotaped, transcribed and content analysis was applied, whilst ensuring inter- and intra-rater reliability. Results: Each Work-SoC component was influenced by specific job resources and demands. In particular, comprehensibility and manageability interacted. Manageability affected assessment of the programme’s feasibility. High meaningfulness positively affected the programme’s acceptance and overall assessment among SPs. Furthermore, it buffered low manageability and was strongly associated with project identification. Conclusion: We found that Work-SoC could be used to assess SPs’ work environment, and therefore programme feasibility. It may be worthwhile to use Work-SoC as an implementation outcome or as an indicator for possible programmes.
Drivers of CO2 Emissions: A Debt Perspective
Authors: Zhao Tian , Liu Zhixin
Published: February 2022

CO2 emissions and debt accumulation are twin threats to sustainable development. To fill the gap that few studies can untangle the reasons behind CO2 emissions from the debt perspective, we illustrate debt can cause CO2 emissions through various channels. We then examined how debt-based drivers impact emission trajectories. We use the logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) method to decompose the emission changes into five factors. We make decomposition analyses between different country groups to identify their respective characteristics. Further, to investigate the potential financial crisis impacts, we consider the full period 2001–2019 and two sub-periods (pre- and post-2008). The results show that the gross domestic product (GDP) is always the biggest contributor to emissions, whose effect on advanced economies saw a bigger decrease after 2008 than that on emerging economies. Debt–GDP is second only to GDP in contributing to emissions. It has a similar impact on emissions before and after 2008 for advanced economies, while it rockets after 2008 for emerging economies. Private debt financing of fossil fuels is the prominent inhibitor for both economies, especially for emerging economies. It has a stronger mitigation impact after 2008 than before for emerging economies, while has the opposite change for advanced economies. Debt structure and fossil CO2 intensity have relatively smaller effects on emissions. The crisis is an opportunity to promote low-carbon development. Since the COVID-19 pandemic is analogous to the 2008 crisis in terms of debt level and emission change, we provide recommendations for emission mitigation in the post-pandemic context.
Correction: Loer et al. Subjective Generic Health Literacy and Its Associated Factors among Adolescents: Results of a Population-Based Online Survey in Germany. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17, 8682
Authors: Loer Anne-Kathrin M. , Domanska Olga M. , Stock Christiane , Jordan Susanne
Published: February 2022

In the discussion chapter (page 15 ff.) of the original paper [...]
A “Ballpark” Assessment of Social Distancing Efficiency in the Early Stages of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kim Taejong , Kim Hyosun
Published: February 2022

This paper presents an efficiency assessment of social distancing as an internationally adopted measure to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The simple framework adopted for the assessment accounts for two kinds of costs that a society may bear in a pandemic. The first is welfare loss due to infection and its consequences, and the second is welfare loss resulting from a slowdown in economic transactions. We call the first infection costs, and the second economic costs, for convenience in the paper. Efficient social distancing should minimize the sum of these costs. Infection costs are likely to decrease with social distancing at a decreasing rate as intensified social distancing eases pressure on scarce resources for intensive care. Economic costs on the other hand are likely to increase at an increasing rate as extreme slowdown in economic life may entail job losses and business failures. The resulting U-shaped total costs curve implies parity between infection costs and economic costs as a necessary condition for efficiency. In a simplified implementation of the framework, we approximate infection costs by the value of (statistical) lives lost, and economic costs by the gap between the actual gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020 and the potential GDP as predicted by the within-country growth trend during the preceding decade. The results for 158 countries suggest that the global community perhaps reacted with overly strict social distancing measures. The results for the subgroup of high-income countries, however, suggest that these countries were more successful in maintaining the parity between infection and economic costs.
A Digital Health Service for Elderly People with Balance Disorders and Risk of Falling: A Design Science Approach
Authors: Gaspar Andréa Gomes Martins , Lapão Luís Velez
Published: February 2022

In this study, a design science research methodology was used aiming at designing, implementing and evaluating a digital health service to complement the provision of healthcare for elderly people with balance disorders and risk of falling. An explanatory sequential mixed methods study allowed to identify and explore the dissatisfaction with electronic medical records and the opportunity for using digital health solutions. The suggested recommendations helped to elaborate and develop “BALANCE”, a digital service implemented on the METHIS platform, which was recently validated for remote monitoring of chronic patients in primary healthcare. “BALANCE” provides clinical and interactive data, questionnaire pre and post-balance rehabilitation, tutorial videos with balance exercises and patient-recorded videos of the exercises. This digital service was demonstrated, including five elderly patients with clinical recommendations for balance rehabilitation at home. Finally, the authors conducted two focus groups with the participants and their caregivers as well as with physicians. The focus groups aimed at exploring their satisfaction level, needs of adjustment in the “BALANCE” service and strategies for applicability. The digital healthcare service evaluation revealed a significant potential for clinical applicability of this digital solution for elderly people with balance disorders and risk of falling.
The Relationship between Compulsive Exercise, Self-Esteem, Body Image and Body Satisfaction in Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ruiz-Turrero Juncal , Massar Karlijn , Kwasnicka Dominika , Ten Hoor Gill A.
Published: February 2022

Purpose: In this study, we aimed to test the relationship between compulsive exercise and self-esteem, body image, and body satisfaction as potential predictors of eating disorders. Methods: Self-report measures of compulsive exercise beliefs and behaviors, self-esteem, body image, and body satisfaction, were completed by 120 female participants through an online questionnaire. Factor analyses with varimax rotation were performed to create exercise-frequency groups. ANOVA’s were performed on Body Mass Index (weight adjusted for height squared, BMI), current minus ideal weight, self-esteem, body image, and body satisfaction to determine if there were differences depending on these exercise groups. Results: Factor analysis revealed two factors for compulsive exercise beliefs and behaviors: (1) Exercise Fixation, and (2) Exercise Frequency and Commitment. Based on those factors, participants were subdivided into four clusters: (1) pathological obligatory exercisers, (2) exercise fixators, (3) committed exercisers, and (4) non-exercisers. No differences were found between these groups for BMI or current minus ideal weight. Pathological obligatory exercisers and committed exercisers spend significantly more hours on exercise weekly compared to exercise fixators or non-exercisers. No differences between pathological obligatory exercisers, exercise fixators, and non-exercisers were found on self-esteem or body satisfaction, where the committed exercisers scored significantly better. Both committed exercisers and non-exercisers scored significantly better on body image flexibility compared to pathological obligatory exercisers and exercise fixators. Conclusion: Compulsive exercise has both an exercise volume and an emotional component. The level of compulsive exercise is linked to one’s self-esteem, body image, and body satisfaction and those factors could be a target for future interventions.
Control of Gene Expression via the Yeast CWI Pathway
Authors: Sanz Ana Belén , García Raúl , Pavón-Vergés Mónica , Rodríguez-Peña José Manuel , Arroyo Javier
Published: February 2022

Living cells exposed to stressful environmental situations can elicit cellular responses that guarantee maximal cell survival. Most of these responses are mediated by mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, which are highly conserved from yeast to humans. Cell wall damage conditions in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae elicit rescue mechanisms mainly associated with reprogramming specific transcriptional responses via the cell wall integrity (CWI) pathway. Regulation of gene expression by this pathway is coordinated by the MAPK Slt2/Mpk1, mainly via Rlm1 and, to a lesser extent, through SBF (Swi4/Swi6) transcription factors. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms controlling gene expression upon cell wall stress and the role of chromatin structure in these processes. Some of these mechanisms are also discussed in the context of other stresses governed by different yeast MAPK pathways. Slt2 regulates both transcriptional initiation and elongation by interacting with chromatin at the promoter and coding regions of CWI-responsive genes but using different mechanisms for Rlm1- and SBF-dependent genes. Since MAPK pathways are very well conserved in eukaryotic cells and are essential for controlling cellular physiology, improving our knowledge regarding how they regulate gene expression could impact the future identification of novel targets for therapeutic intervention.
Enhanced Tumor Imaging Using Glucosamine-Conjugated Polyacrylic Acid-Coated Ultrasmall Gadolinium Oxide Nanoparticles in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Liu Shuwen , Yue Huan , Ho Son Long , Kim Soyeon , Park Ji Ae , Tegafaw Tirusew , Ahmad Mohammad Yaseen , Kim Seungho , Saidi Abdullah Khamis Ali Al , Zhao Dejun , Liu Ying , Nam Sung-Wook , Chae Kwon Seok , Chang Yongmin , Lee Gang Ho
Published: February 2022

Owing to a higher demand for glucosamine (GlcN) in metabolic processes in tumor cells than in normal cells (i.e., GlcN effects), tumor imaging in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be highly improved using GlcN-conjugated MRI contrast agents. Here, GlcN was conjugated with polyacrylic acid (PAA)-coated ultrasmall gadolinium oxide nanoparticles (UGONs) (davg = 1.76 nm). Higher positive (brighter or T1) contrast enhancements at various organs including tumor site were observed in human brain glioma (U87MG) tumor-bearing mice after the intravenous injection of GlcN-PAA-UGONs into their tail veins, compared with those obtained with PAA-UGONs as control, which were rapidly excreted through the bladder. Importantly, the contrast enhancements of the GlcN-PAA-UGONs with respect to those of the PAA-UGONs were the highest in the tumor site owing to GlcN effects. These results demonstrated that GlcN-PAA-UGONs can serve as excellent T1 MRI contrast agents in tumor imaging via GlcN effects.
Long-Term Dietary Taurine Lowers Plasma Levels of Cholesterol and Bile Acids
Authors: Tagawa Ryoma , Kobayashi Masaki , Sakurai Misako , Yoshida Maho , Kaneko Hiroki , Mizunoe Yuhei , Nozaki Yuka , Okita Naoyuki , Sudo Yuka , Higami Yoshikazu
Published: February 2022

Cholesterol is an essential lipid in vertebrates, but excess blood cholesterol promotes atherosclerosis. In the liver, cholesterol is metabolized to bile acids by cytochrome P450, family 7, subfamily a, polypeptide 1 (CYP7A1), the transcription of which is negatively regulated by the ERK pathway. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a hepatokine, induces ERK phosphorylation and suppresses Cyp7a1 transcription. Taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, reportedly promotes cholesterol metabolism and lowers blood and hepatic cholesterol levels. However, the influence of long-term feeding of taurine on cholesterol levels and metabolism remains unclear. Here, to evaluate the more chronic effects of taurine on cholesterol levels, we analyzed mice fed a taurine-rich diet for 14–16 weeks. Long-term feeding of taurine lowered plasma cholesterol and bile acids without significantly changing other metabolic parameters, but hardly affected these levels in the liver. Moreover, taurine upregulated Cyp7a1 levels, while downregulated phosphorylated ERK and Fgf21 levels in the liver. Likewise, taurine-treated Hepa1-6 cells, a mouse hepatocyte line, exhibited downregulated Fgf21 levels and upregulated promoter activity of Cyp7a1. These results indicate that taurine promotes cholesterol metabolism by suppressing the FGF21/ERK pathway followed by upregulating Cyp7a1 expression. Collectively, this study shows that long-term feeding of taurine lowers both plasma cholesterol and bile acids, reinforcing that taurine effectively prevents hypercholesterolemia.
Single-Cell Analysis Uncovers Osteoblast Factor Growth Differentiation Factor 10 as Mediator of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Modulation Associated with Plaque Rupture in Human Carotid Artery Disease
Authors: Brandt Karim J. , Burger Fabienne , Baptista Daniela , Roth Aline , Fernandes da Silva Rafaela , Montecucco Fabrizio , Mach Francois , Miteva Kapka
Published: February 2022

(1) Background: Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) undergo a complex phenotypic switch in response to atherosclerosis environmental triggers, contributing to atherosclerosis disease progression. However, the complex heterogeneity of VSMCs and how VSMC dedifferentiation affects human carotid artery disease (CAD) risk has not been clearly established. (2) Method: A single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of CD45− cells derived from the atherosclerotic aorta of Apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apoe−/−) mice on a normal cholesterol diet (NCD) or a high cholesterol diet (HCD), respecting the site-specific predisposition to atherosclerosis was performed. Growth Differentiation Factor 10 (GDF10) role in VSMCs phenotypic switch was investigated via flow cytometry, immunofluorescence in human atherosclerotic plaques. (3) Results: scRNAseq analysis revealed the transcriptomic profile of seven clusters, five of which showed disease-relevant gene signature of VSMC macrophagic calcific phenotype, VSMC mesenchymal chondrogenic phenotype, VSMC inflammatory and fibro-phenotype and VSMC inflammatory phenotype. Osteoblast factor GDF10 involved in ossification and osteoblast differentiation emerged as a hallmark of VSMCs undergoing phenotypic switch. Under hypercholesteremia, GDF10 triggered VSMC osteogenic switch in vitro. The abundance of GDF10 expressing osteogenic-like VSMCs cells was linked to the occurrence of carotid artery disease (CAD) events. (4) Conclusions: Taken together, these results provide evidence about GDF10-mediated VSMC osteogenic switch, with a likely detrimental role in atherosclerotic plaque stability.
IL-6 Cytokine Family: A Putative Target for Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Felcher Carla M. , Bogni Emilia S. , Kordon Edith C.
Published: February 2022

The IL-6 cytokine family is a group of signaling molecules with wide expression and function across vertebrates. Each member of the family signals by binding to its specific receptor and at least one molecule of gp130, which is the common transmembrane receptor subunit for the whole group. Signal transduction upon stimulation of the receptor complex results in the activation of multiple downstream cascades, among which, in mammary cells, the JAK-STAT3 pathway plays a central role. In this review, we summarize the role of the IL-6 cytokine family—specifically IL-6 itself, LIF, OSM, and IL-11—as relevant players during breast cancer progression. We have compiled evidence indicating that this group of soluble factors may be used for early and more precise breast cancer diagnosis and to design targeted therapy to treat or even prevent metastasis development, particularly to the bone. Expression profiles and possible therapeutic use of their specific receptors in the different breast cancer subtypes are also described. In addition, participation of these cytokines in pathologies of the breast linked to lactation and involution of the gland, as post-partum breast cancer and mastitis, is discussed.
Phytoplasma Infection Blocks Starch Breakdown and Triggers Chloroplast Degradation, Leading to Premature Leaf Senescence, Sucrose Reallocation, and Spatiotemporal Redistribution of Phytohormones
Authors: Wei Wei , Inaba Junichi , Zhao Yan , Mowery Joseph D. , Hammond Rosemarie
Published: February 2022

Witches’-broom (WB, excessive initiation, and outgrowth of axillary buds) is one of the remarkable symptoms in plants caused by phytoplasmas, minute wall-less intracellular bacteria. In healthy plants, axillary bud initiation and outgrowth are regulated by an intricate interplay of nutrients (such as sugars), hormones, and environmental factors. However, how these factors are involved in the induction of WB by phytoplasma is poorly understood. We postulated that the WB symptom is a manifestation of the pathologically induced redistribution of sugar and phytohormones. Employing potato purple top phytoplasma and its alternative host tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), sugar metabolism and transportation, and the spatiotemporal distribution of phytohormones were investigated. A transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed that starch breakdown was inhibited, resulting in the degradation of damaged chloroplasts, and in turn, premature leaf senescence. In the infected source leaves, two marker genes encoding asparagine synthetase (Sl-ASN) and trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (Sl-TPS) that induce early leaf senescence were significantly up-regulated. However, the key gibberellin biosynthesis gene that encodes ent-kaurene synthase (Sl-KS) was suppressed. The assessment of sugar content in various infected tissues (mature leaves, stems, roots, and leaf axils) indicated that sucrose transportation through phloem was impeded, leading to sucrose reallocation into the leaf axils. Excessive callose deposition and the resulting reduction in sieve pore size revealed by aniline blue staining and TEM provided additional evidence to support impaired sugar transport. In addition, a spatiotemporal distribution study of cytokinin and auxin using reporter lines detected a cytokinin signal in leaf axils where the axillary buds initiated. However, the auxin responsive signal was rarely present in such leaf axils, but at the tips of the newly elongated buds. These results suggested that redistributed sucrose as well as cytokinin in leaf axils triggered the axillary bud initiation, and auxin played a role in the bud elongation. The expression profiles of genes encoding squamosa promoter-binding proteins (Sl-SBP1), and BRANCHED1 (Sl-BRC1a and Sl-BRC1b) that control axillary bud release, as determined by quantitative reverse transcription (qRT)-PCR, indicated their roles in WB induction. However, their interactions with sugars and cytokinins require further study. Our findings provide a comprehensive insight into the mechanisms by which phytoplasmas induce WB along with leaf chlorosis, little leaf, and stunted growth.
Interaction of Alpha Synuclein and Microtubule Organization Is Linked to Impaired Neuritic Integrity in Parkinson’s Patient-Derived Neuronal Cells
Authors: Seebauer Lukas , Schneider Yanni , Drobny Alice , Plötz Sonja , Koudelka Tomas , Tholey Andreas , Prots Iryna , Winner Beate , Zunke Friederike , Winkler Jürgen , Xiang Wei
Published: February 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is neuropathologically characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons and the deposition of aggregated alpha synuclein (aSyn). Mounting evidence suggests that neuritic degeneration precedes neuronal loss in PD. A possible underlying mechanism could be the interference of aSyn with microtubule organization in the neuritic development, as implied by several studies using cell-free model systems. In this study, we investigate the impact of aSyn on microtubule organization in aSyn overexpressing H4 neuroglioma cells and midbrain dopaminergic neuronal cells (mDANs) generated from PD patient-derived human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) carrying an aSyn gene duplication (SNCADupl). An unbiased mass spectrometric analysis reveals a preferential binding of aggregated aSyn conformers to a number of microtubule elements. We confirm the interaction of aSyn with beta tubulin III in H4 and hiPSC-derived mDAN cell model systems, and demonstrate a remarkable redistribution of tubulin isoforms from the soluble to insoluble fraction, accompanied by a significantly increased insoluble aSyn level. Concordantly, SNCADupl mDANs show impaired neuritic phenotypes characterized by perturbations in neurite initiation and outgrowth. In summary, our findings suggest a mechanistic pathway, through which aSyn aggregation interferes with microtubule organization and induces neurite impairments.
The Barley Chloroplast Mutator (cpm) Mutant: All Roads Lead to the Msh1 Gene
Authors: Lencina Franco , Landau Alejandra , Prina Alberto R.
Published: February 2022

The barley chloroplast mutator (cpm) is a nuclear gene mutant that induces a wide spectrum of cytoplasmically inherited chlorophyll deficiencies. Plastome instability of cpm seedlings was determined by identification of a particular landscape of polymorphisms that suggests failures in a plastome mismatch repair (MMR) protein. In Arabidopsis, MSH genes encode proteins that are in charge of mismatch repair and have anti-recombination activity. In this work, barley homologs of these genes were identified, and their sequences were analyzed in control and cpm mutant seedlings. A substitution, leading to a premature stop codon and a truncated MSH1 protein, was identified in the Msh1 gene of cpm plants. The relationship between this mutation and the presence of chlorophyll deficiencies was established in progenies from crosses and backcrosses. These results strongly suggest that the mutation identified in the Msh1 gene of the cpm mutant is responsible for the observed plastome instabilities. Interestingly, comparison of mutant phenotypes and molecular changes induced by the barley cpm mutant with those of Arabidopsis MSH1 mutants revealed marked differences.