bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects and Costs of Personalized Budgets for People with Disabilities: A Systematic Review
Authors: Robinson Marguerite , Blaise Marie , Weber Germain , Suhrcke Marc
Published: December 2022

This article reviews the peer-reviewed and grey literature published from January 1985 to November 2022 that has quantitatively evaluated the effects of personalized budgets for people with disabilities (PwDs), in terms of a range of benefit and cost outcomes. Benefit metrics of interest comprised measures of well-being, service satisfaction and use, quality of life, health, and unmet needs. A search was conducted using the PsycINFO, MEDLINE, CINAHL, ASSIA, and Social Care Online databases. Based on inclusion criteria and a quality assessment using the Downs and Black Checklist, a final count of 23 studies were identified for in-depth review. Given the heterogeneous nature of the studies, a narrative synthesis, rather than a formal meta-analysis, was undertaken. Taking the relatively scarce and often methodologically limited evidence base at face value, the findings suggest that—overall—personalized budget users tend to benefit in terms of well-being and service satisfaction outcomes, with the exception of mixed effects for people with mental health conditions. Only a minority of studies have investigated the cost-effectiveness or costs-only of personalized budgets, finding mixed results. Two out of the three cost-effectiveness studies find personal budgets to be more cost-effective than alternative options, meaning that the possibly higher costs of personalized budgets may be more than outweighed by additional benefits. Some evidence looking at service use and/or costs only also points to significant reductions in certain service use areas, which at least hints at the potential that personalized budgeting may—in some cases—entail reduced costs. Further research is needed to explore the generalizability of these conclusions and to better capture and understand the factors driving the observed heterogeneity in some of the results.
Statistical Measurements and Club Effects of High-Quality Development in Chinese Manufacturing
Authors: Lin Chunyan , Qiao Wen
Published: December 2022

Advanced manufacturing is the pillar for building a modern economic system. We measured the level of high-quality development of manufacturing (HQDM) in China, and found that it has gone through the three stages of expansion, cultivation, and promotion. Spatially, it is characterized as “high in the east, low in the west” and “fast in the west, slow in the east”, and presents non-equilibrium characteristics. To overcome the subjective bias introduced by artificially set clubs, we utilize a data-driven nonlinear time-varying factor model for clustering into four convergent clubs, where provinces with higher intensity of environmental regulation and environmental preference tend to move closer to the clubs with a higher level of HQDM. We reveal the convergence patterns and regional differences in HQDM, which provides a new perspective for determining the trends of high-quality manufacturing development, thus allowing for policy recommendations targeted at narrowing the manufacturing development gap.
Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Survivors in Relation to Age, Type of Surgery and Length of Time since First Treatment
Authors: Alvarez-Pardo Sergio , Romero-Pérez Ena Monserrat , Camberos-Castañeda Néstor , de Paz José Antonio , Horta-Gim Mario Alberto , González-Bernal Jerónimo J. , Mielgo-Ayuso Juan , Simón-Vicente Lucía , Fernández-Solana Jessica , González-Santos Josefa
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Quality of life assessment is a critical aspect of breast cancer patient outcomes, as diagnosis, prognosis and treatment can have a major impact on quality of life. The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of the sample and to verify the relationship between quality of life (QOL) in women diagnosed with breast cancer (BC) and their age, type or surgery and time since treatment; (2) Methods: a cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted with 183 women diagnosed with BC, aged 30–80 years in Mexico. Women’s QOL was assessed using two questionnaires, The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer-Quality of Life Core Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and The Breast Cancer Module (EORTC QLQ-BR23). (3) Results: the results show significant differences in several items when the variable age is taken into account, indicating that younger women have poorer social and sexual function, as well as poorer sexual enjoyment and lower expectations of the future. The type of surgery also indicates a significantly better QOL in those women who receive conservative treatment versus a mastectomy; the time elapsed since surgery does not show any significant results, except for sexual functioning and breast-related symptoms where >5 years implies better scores on the items. (4) Conclusions: in conclusion, it is important to take into account the characteristics of women with BC, particularly at the time of treatment, in order to mitigate the impact of the disease on their QOL with the help of a multidisciplinary team.
Clinical Outcomes of a Non-Compliant Balloon Dilatation Catheter: MOZEC™ NC Study
Authors: Pradhan Akshyaya , Vishwakarma Pravesh , Bhandari Monika , Sethi Rishi , Chandra Sharad , Chaudhary Gaurav , Sharma Akhil , Perrone Marco Alfonso , Dwivedi Sudhanshu , Narain Varun
Published: December 2022

The present study sought to assess the clinical outcomes of the Mozec™ Non-compliant (NC) Rx PTCA balloon dilatation catheter (BDC) (Meril Life Sciences Pvt. Ltd., Vapi, India) for dilatation of coronary lesions. This was a post-marketing, single-centre, single-arm, retrospective study. In total, 57 patients who had undergone post-dilatation with the Mozec™ NC Rx PTCA balloon dilatation catheter were evaluated. The primary endpoint was procedural success defined as (i) successful delivery of the investigational device to and across the target lesion; (ii) successful inflation, deflation, and withdrawal of the investigational device; (iii) absence of vessel perforation, flow-limiting vessel dissection, increase in thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow from baseline, clinically significant arrhythmia requiring medical treatment; and (iv) achievement of final TIMI flow grade 3 after percutaneous coronary intervention of the target lesion after single or multiple attempts to cross the target lesion. Procedural success was achieved in 57 (100%) patients. There were no incidences of major adverse cardiac events (MACE)/target lesion failure (TLF). Mozec™ NC Rx PTCA balloon dilatation catheter has demonstrated favourable outcomes for the dilatation of routine and complex coronary lesions in a small cohort, as evidenced by its 100% procedural success rate and absence of MACE.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Pollution Characteristics in Agricultural Soils of the Pearl River Delta Region, China
Authors: Cai Haolong , Yao Siyu , Huang Jiahui , Zheng Xiongkai , Sun Jianteng , Tao Xueqin , Lu Guining
Published: December 2022

In order to investigate the pollution status of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the agricultural soil, 240 agricultural soil topsoil samples were collected from nine Pearl River Delta cities from June to September 2019. In addition, 72 samples were collected for vertical soil profiles, which soil profiles were excavated to a depth of 80 cm. After sample preparation, GC-MS was used for the separation of compounds on a HP-5MS quartz capillary column. ArcGIS software was used to map the spatial distribution. Health risk assessment was conducted using USEPA standard. The results showed that the total concentration of 16 PAHs ranged from 43.4 to 5630 ng/g, with an average of 219 ng/g. The spatial distribution showed that most of the seriously polluted areas were in the coastal area, near the port, and there was point source pollution in the Gaoming of Foshan. Vertically distributed display Zhuhai, Jiangmen, Zhaoqing, Shenzhen and Dongguan increased and then decreased from bottom to bottom, showing a low-high-low pattern, the concentration of PAHs in Zhongshan and Foshan decreased with the soil depth, while the concentration of PAHs in Guangzhou and Huizhou was enriched with human activities. The PAHs components in soil samples were mainly medium and high rings (4–6 rings). The analysis of the origin of PAH in soil samples showed that the mixture of incomplete combustion sources of fossil fuels such as coal and biomass and traffic emission sources were the main sources of soil PAHs. A small amount can be attributed to oil sources such as oil spills. The human health risk assessment showed no cancer risk for children, while for adults, may cause a potential risk of cancer, which needs to be noticed. Spearman correlation analysis showed that PAH content was significantly correlated with SOC (p < 0.01) and pH (p < 0.05). Port transport, road emissions and industrial production make the area a pollution hot topic, and supervision should be strengthened to protect the environment and food safety.
The Follow-Up of Eating Disorders from Adolescence to Early Adulthood: A Systematic Review
Authors: Filipponi Caterina , Visentini Chiara , Filippini Tommaso , Cutino Anna , Ferri Paola , Rovesti Sergio , Latella Emanuela , Di Lorenzo Rosaria
Published: December 2022

Eating disorders (EDs) are common among children and adolescents and are characterized by excessive concerns for physical appearance, distorted body image, and fear of gaining weight. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the follow-up of EDs from adolescence to adulthood, analyzing persistence, relapses, and associated comorbidities. We searched scientific articles in PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus, and Embase through two research strings, one for quantitative outcomes (recovery/persistence, relapse, and remission) and one for the other outcomes (psychiatric and medical comorbidities, substance use, and social–relational complications). From a total of 8043 retrieved articles, we selected 503 papers after exclusion of duplicates and title/abstract screening. After a full-text evaluation, we included 16 studies eligible for this review. We performed a meta-analysis describing the quantitative results, and we created a narrative synthesis for the qualitative outcomes. Results: Our results confirm that EDs can persist in early adulthood in 40.7% of cases with a relapse percentage of 24.5%. Individuals with an ED more frequently present with an empathy deficit and comorbid anxiety and depressive disorders. EDs are chronic and complex disorders, more frequent in females. In most cases, EDs reduce the autonomy of individuals who present many difficulties in affirming their independence from parental family.
A Randomized Trial of a Swimming-Based Alternative Treatment for Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Hattabi Soukaina , Forte Pedro , Kukic Filip , Bouden Asma , Have Mona , Chtourou Hamdi , Sortwell Andrew
Published: December 2022

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered a highly prevalent neurodevelopmental childhood disorder extending from ages 1–2 to 12–13, associated with impairment across multiple domains, including social, emotional, and cognitive functioning. Little is known about alternative treatments for this disorder. Interest has grown in physical activity as a potential intervention for rehabilitating children with ADHD. This study aimed to investigate the impact of adapted swimming activity on cognitive functions, academic performance, and related behavior of Tunisian children with ADHD. The study was conducted on school children aged 9 to 12 years (n = 40, 5 female and 35 male) diagnosed with ADHD. They were randomly assigned to an experimental group (exercise intervention) or the control group. The Hayling test was used to assess cognitive performance, the Children Behavior Check List (CBCL) was used to assess ADHD-related behavior, and the change in reading and numeracy proficiency was assessed pre- and post-intervention. After 12 weeks of the intervention, the results revealed that there were significant improvements in behavior (p < 0.001), inhibition process (p < 0.001), and academic performance (p < 0.001) in the experimental group compared with the control group. These findings suggest that adapted swimming activity may have positive implications for cognitive function, behavior, and academic performance. This research may provide preliminary support for alternative therapeutic interventions that could be used by practitioners. Moreover, the results support active practice of recreational physical activities as a strategy to support children in overcoming ADHD deficiencies.
Stress and Alcohol Intake among Hispanic Adult Immigrants in the U.S. Midwest
Authors: Rodriguez Jacqueline , Golzarri-Arroyo Lilian , Rodriguez Cindy , Maupomé Gerardo
Published: December 2022

Alcohol intake and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) among recent and very recent Hispanic immigrants are not well characterized, in particular in the context of perceived stress among such groups. The objective of the present study was to shed light on alcohol intake and AUD overall, as well as potential modifications derived from varying levels of stress and socioeconomic status (SES). The study population was immigrants with six or fewer months of having arrived in the American Midwest, and members of their peer networks who had been in the U.S. for 2+ years. We found that AUD and alcohol intake spanned from very high to a considerable proportion who abstained; perceived stress did not have an obvious impact on AUD or alcohol intake. Moreover, neither New vs. Established immigrant statuses, or SES levels, were associated with AUD or alcohol intake. Future research should examine in a more finely-grained approach the components of SES to verify if the complex circumstances of recent immigrants are in fact amenable to SES classification using standard quantification approaches—even using the functional descriptions of the SES surrogates we used.
The Roles of Anxiety and Self-Esteem in the Risk of Eating Disorders and Compulsive Buying Behavior
Authors: De Pasquale Concetta , Morando Martina , Platania Silvia , Sciacca Federica , Hichy Zira , Di Nuovo Santo , Quattropani Maria Catena
Published: December 2022

In contemporary society, following the sudden changes that occur, different forms of addiction are becoming popular. Of note are the new addictions and concepts of poly-dependencies that involve common behaviors and trap people who suffering from them in a vicious circle. The main goal of this study is to investigate the possible mediating role that self-esteem had between trait anxiety and two specific new addictions: compulsive buying behavior and eating disorders. Furthermore, it was verified through a multigroup analysis that trait anxiety had a greater effect on eating disorders in a group of compulsive consumers. Three-hundred and fifty-two participants (67.9% women) were enrolled to participate in this study. The results showed that there was a direct effect of trait anxiety on eating disorders and on compulsive buying behavior; self-esteem mediated the effect of trait anxiety on eating disorders and compulsive buying behavior with specific differences; multi-group analysis showed differences in anxiety’s effect on eating disorders between compulsive and non-compulsive consumers; the group of compulsive consumers revealed a significant and stronger effect of trait anxiety on eating disorders in all domains identified. Further research is recommended to better understand the predictors of these disorders and to contribute to a more effective preventive intervention.
A Case Study of Factors That Affect Secondary School Mathematics Achievement: Teacher-Parent Support, Stress Levels, and Students’ Well-Being
Authors: Wijaya Tommy Tanu , Rahmadi Imam Fitri , Chotimah Siti , Jailani Jailani , Wutsqa Dhoriva Urwatul
Published: December 2022

Psychology is one of the numerous factors that influences students’ mathematics achievement, but studies on the influence of psychology on student mathematics achievement are still limited. This study analyzes key factors affecting mathematics achievement through teacher-parent support, stress, and students’ well-being in learning mathematics. Data was collected via online questionnaires. Participants of the study are 531 students studying at five secondary schools in Bandung, Indonesia. The data were analyzed using the structural equations modeling approach using SMART-PLS 3.0 software. The results showed that interest in learning was the most significant factor affecting students’ mathematics achievement. Moreover, teachers have a more substantial effect than parents’ support, which does not significantly reduce the students’ stress levels. The academic and emotional support of teachers and parents reduces students’ stress levels while increasing their feelings and interest in learning mathematics. This study provides essential results for school teachers and parents to improve students’ mathematics achievement at the secondary school level.
The Industrial Sprawl in China from 2010 to 2019: A Multi-Level Spatial Analysis Based on Urban Scaling Law
Authors: Zhang Lu , Lin Xuehan , Qiu Bingkui , Zhang Maomao , He Qingsong
Published: December 2022

Studying the spatial-temporal distribution industrial sprawl in China is important to solve industrial sprawl problems and promote urban sustainable development. This paper constructed a multi-level spatial analysis of the Chinese industrial sprawl during 2010–2019 by mainly using urban scaling law, supplemented by GIS methods. Results showed that: (1) China had obvious industrial sprawl with a growth rate of 31.79%, reaching 2762.37 km2 between 2010 and 2019. (2) There was a stronger industrial sprawl in large cities with a larger population according to urban scaling law, especially in the East. (3) The industrial sprawl was mainly concentrated in the cities in the Northeast, Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Shandong Peninsula, Yangtze River Delta region, Pearl River Delta region, Middle Yangtze River region, Fujian Province, and some cities in the West. (4) The gravity center of industrial sprawl generally moved southwest and distributed in Hubei Province. This study provided references for improving the efficiency of industrial land use and promoting high-quality urban development.
The PRISMA 2020 Statement: A System Review of Hospital Preparedness for Bioterrorism Events
Authors: Yao Lulu , Zhang Yongzhong , Zhao Chao , Zhao Feida , Bai Song
Published: December 2022

Hospitals are an important part of a nation’s response to bioterrorism events. At present, research in this field is still in the initial stage. The number of related studies is small, the research direction is relatively concentrated, and a comprehensive analysis and standard evaluation system are lacking. This literature survey was conducted using PRISMA methodology. Collective information was gathered from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and available grey literature sourced through Google and relevant websites. The studies were screened according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) flowchart. Analysis and summary of the extracted data was performed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Rapid Hospital Readiness Checklist (2020). Twenty-three articles were selected for review, data extraction, and data analysis. Referring to the WHO rapid hospital readiness checklist, six main indicator categories were determined, including emergency management, medical service capacity, surge capacity, laboratories, regional coordination, and logistical support, and fifty-two subcategories were finally identified. The study summarizes and analyzes the relevant literature on hospital disaster preparedness and extracts relevant capability elements, providing a reference for the preparation of hospitals against bioterrorism events and a basis for the design and development of hospital preparedness assessment indicators.
Risk Factors Associated with Intimate Partner Violence against Chinese Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zhao Qian , Huang Yuxin , Sun Mei , Li Ying , Lommel Lisa L.
Published: December 2022

Background: The prevalence of intimate partner violence against women in China remains high. Understanding associated risk factors will help inform prevention. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify associated risk factors of intimate partner violence against women in mainland China. Methods: Nine English and Chinese databases were searched from 1 August 2008–2 August 2022. Reference lists of relevant studies supplemented the initial results. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence was used to assess article quality. Study results were combined in a narrative synthesis. Results: Nineteen eligible studies were identified. Examples of key intimate partner violence risk factors included: partner’s low education or income, unhealthy habits (gambling), women’s marital status, poor health or education, women’s or partner’s childhood abuse or witnessing thereof at home, or multiple children and husband dominance. Conclusions: Despite the significant changes in Chinese policies and the new law, IPV continues, and this review has highlighted vulnerable women who need identification and protection. Further study is needed of individual (e.g., psychological well-being), relationship/family, and society/cultural variables.
County-Level Economic Changes and Drug Mortality in the United States: Evidence from the Great Recession
Authors: Kim Yeonwoo , Cano Manuel , Oh Sehun , Betz Michael
Published: December 2022

We aimed at examining whether county-level economic changes were associated with changes in county-level drug mortality rates since the Great Recession and whether the association is equally distributed across major sociodemographic subgroups. Using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (2004–2019), combined with census data, we conducted fixed effects analyses by including county-level economic changes as primary exposures and county-level drug-related mortality rates (per 100,000 people) from 2004–2007 (i.e., prior to the recession) to 2008–2011, 2012–2015, and 2016–2019 as an outcome variable based on 1833 counties. Our findings showed that drug mortality rates increased from 13.9 (2004–2007) to 16.0 (2008–2011), 18.0 (2012–2015), and 23.0 (2016–2019). Counties experiencing smaller median household income growth during and/or after the recession were associated with greater increase in drug mortality than counties experiencing larger median household income growth among the total population and all sociodemographic subgroups. Counties experiencing larger increases in unemployment rates and percentage of vacant housing units were associated with greater increase in drug mortality than counties experiencing smaller or no increase in unemployment rates and percentage of vacant housing units among certain sociodemographic subgroups. Findings suggest the importance of local economic contexts in understanding drug mortality risk since the recession. Drug overdose prevention polices need to be formulated by taking local economic changes following a major recession into consideration.
Case Study Demonstration of the Potential Acceptability and Effectiveness of a Novel Telehealth Treatment for People Experiencing Gambling Harm
Authors: Oakes Jane , Northe Vicky , Darwin Chris , Hopkins Liza
Published: December 2022

The evidence base for internet therapies is building but little is known yet about the acceptability and effectiveness of providing telehealth online in a group format for the treatment of gambling disorders. Therefore, this uncontrolled, real-world study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of providing evidence-based treatment in a group format using an online platform. This innovative approach to treatment of people experiencing gambling harm was developed during the COVID pandemic so that gamblers could access evidence-based treatment from their homes. A closed group treatment program was developed using telehealth, enabling gamblers to come together weekly to engage in a treatment program based on behavioral therapy using cue exposure. Four online gamblers who met the criteria for Gambling Disorder were recruited from a gambling help service. A case report evaluation methodology was used to gain an in-depth understanding of the effectiveness of this approach to treatment. Treatment was conducted weekly over 12 months. All participants engaged with the program and after completing treatment participants no longer met the criteria for a Gambling Disorder, were abstinent for 12 months post treatment and achieved improved life functioning. This program provides preliminary evidence that providing treatment online in a group setting can be an acceptable and effective model in the delivery of treatment for clients unable to attend face-to-face clinics or preferring telemedicine as an option for treatment delivery. These findings warrant further exploration through a larger randomized controlled study.
Perception of Current Educational Environment, Clinical Competency, and Depression among Malaysian Medical Students in Clinical Clerkship: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sudi Rosnaini , Chang Wai Leng , Arshad Nur Hidayah , Zainal Abidin Syasya Nabilah , Suderman Ulyssies , Woon Luke Sy-Cherng
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the educational environment of medical students in clinical clerkship, with potential impacts on clinical competency and reported increased prevalence of depression. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the perception of the educational environment, self-perceived clinical competency, and depression among them. Subjects (N = 196) at the National University of Malaysia participated through convenience sampling in an online survey including sociodemographic data, COVID-19-related stressors, Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM), self-perceived clinical competency, and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The cut-off point for depression was a PHQ-9 score ≥ 15. Multiple logistic regression followed bivariate analyses to identify factors for depression. The participants (mean age: 23.2 years, SD ± 0.98 years) were mainly female (71.9%) and Malay (59.2%). The prevalence of depression was 17.4% (95% CI: 12.3–23.4%). Most participants perceived the educational environment positively. In logistic regression, ethnicity (Adjusted OR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.2–8.1) and DREEM score were significantly associated with depression, whereas self-perceived clinical competency was not. A higher DREEM score indicating a better perception of the educational environment was linked to a lower likelihood of depression (p = 0.046). Besides ethnicity, perception of the educational environment emerged as a factor associated with depression. This relationship between the educational environment and mental well-being warrants further exploration.
Psychophysiological Responses of Humans during Seed-Sowing Activity Using Soil Inoculated with Streptomyces rimosus
Authors: Choi Na-Yoon , Park Sin-Ae , Lee Ye-Rim , Lee Choong Hwan
Published: December 2022

Electroencephalogram (EEG) responses and serum metabolite levels were used to investigate the effects of horticultural activities (seed-sowing) on the psychophysiological aspects of adults based on the presence or absence of the soil microorganism Streptomyces rimosus. In this case, 31 adults were subjected to seed-sowing activities using S. rimosus inoculated (experimental group) and medium (control group) soils. EEG was measured to analyze the resulting psychophysiological response, and blood samples (5 mL) were collected. The relative gamma power (RG), relative high beta (RHB), and SEF 50 and SEF 90 were significantly higher in the right than in the left occipital lobe (p < 0.05). In both occipital lobes, ratios of SMR to theta (RST), mid beta to theta (RMT), and SMR-mid beta to theta (RSMT) were high (p < 0.05). GC-TOF-MS-based serum metabolite analysis detected 33 metabolites. Compared to the control group, the experimental group showed a lower content of amino acids (except aspartic acid), lipids, and C6 sugar monomers after the activity (p < 0.05). Aminomalonic acid was decreased, and aspartic acid was increased (p < 0.05). This study confirmed a positive effect on improving the concentration and attention of adults when seed-sowing activity was performed using S. rimosus-inoculated soil.
The Association among Alcohol Consumption Patterns, Drink-Driving Behaviors, and the Harm from Alcohol-Related Road Traffic Injuries Due to the Drinking of Others in Thailand
Authors: Nasueb Sopit , Jankhotkaew Jintana , Vichitkunakorn Polathep , Waleewong Orratai
Published: December 2022

Thailand has one of the highest rates of traffic-related fatalities and alcohol-related road traffic injuries globally. Previous studies focused on alcohol consumption and road traffic injuries. However, no existing studies investigate the association between drink-driving behaviors and road traffic injuries due to the drinking of others. This study aims to explore any potential associations among alcohol drinking patterns, drink-driving behaviors, and the harm from alcohol-related road traffic injuries due to the drinking of others. The Thai Tobacco and Alcohol Use Household National Survey data in 2017 (n = 80,797) were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. This study found that current drinkers and binge drinkers were more likely to suffer from road traffic injuries due to others’ drink-driving behavior, i.e., 1.50 times (95% CI: 1.49–1.51) and 2.31 times (95% CI: 2.30–2.33), respectively, compared with non-drinkers. In addition, we found that drink-driving behavior was associated with harm from road traffic injuries due to others’ drink-driving behavior by 2.12 times (95% CI: 2.10–2.14) compared with the non-drinker group. This study calls for effective measures to reduce drink-driving behaviors to prevent road traffic injuries due to the drinking of others.
Pb(II) Ion Removal Potential in Chemically Modified Ziziphus joazeiro Barks
Authors: Santos Yannice , Costa Gilvânia , Menezes Jorge , Feitosa Alex , Coutinho Henrique , Sena Diniz , Filho Francisco , Teixeira Raimundo
Published: December 2022

In this study, five types of modified Ziziphus joazeiro barks were investigated for the removal of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The samples tested were natural barks, natural powder, washed with water, ethanol at 80% (EE) and 0.5 N NaOH. Batch kinetics experiments were performed under the conditions: 24–25 °C, pH 5.5–5.8, 102 mg·L−1 Pb(NO3)2, 100 rpm and 0.1 g of adsorbent, and analyses of pHpzc and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. All adsorbents tested showed potential to remove Pb(II) ions, but the adsorbent washed by 0.5 N NaOH obtained the highest experimental performance (25.5 mg·g−1 at 30 min), while the EE had the least performance (20.4 mg·g−1 at 60 min), and maximum removals of 99.9%. The kinetic models pointed to a probable chemisorption due to the best fit of pseudo-second order and Elovich, and Boyd’s model, suggesting that intraparticle diffusion limits the adsorption until the initial minutes of contact. The Langmuir isotherm fitted better to the experimental data for the NaOH adsorbent, with maximum adsorption capacity equal to 62.5 mg·g−1, although the Temkin model partially fitted, both suggesting the occurrence of chemisorption. The adsorption process is reversible (>81% at 20 min) and hence the adsorbents can be recycled and the Pb(II) ions recovered.
The Presence of Ankylosing Spondylitis and the Incidence of Subsequent External Eye Diseases: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Chia-Yi , Chen Hung-Chi , Huang Jing-Yang , Yen Chieh-Hung , Hwang Yih-Shiou , Chang Chao-Kai , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: December 2022

We aimed to survey the risk of external eye diseases in those with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) via the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) in Taiwan. We conducted a retrospective cohort study, and subjects diagnosed with AS were selected from the NHIRD. Then, the AS patients were matched 1:1 by propensity-score matching (PSM) to non-AS patients, and a total of 6754 participants were included in the AS and non-AS groups. The main outcomes were regarded as the occurrence of dry eye disease (DED), superficial keratopathy and corneal ulcers. We used Cox proportional hazard regression to yield the adjusted hazard ratios (AHR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) between the AS and non-AS groups. There were 709 and 408 external eye disease events that occurred in the AS and non-AS groups after a tracking interval of up to 17 years. The incidence of all external eye diseases was significantly higher in the AS group than the non-AS group (AHR: 1.826, 95% CI: 1.616–2.063, p < 0.0001). Additionally, the rates of DED (AHR: 1.973, 95% CI: 1.701–2.290, p < 0.0001) and superficial keratopathy (AHR: 1.593, 95% CI: 1.347–1.883, p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in the AS group than the non-AS group. In the sub-group analyses, the possibility of any external eye disease (p = 0.0030) and DED (p = 0.0386) was decreased in the older age group compared to those in the middle-aged group. In conclusion, AS is significantly correlated to subsequent external eye diseases, mainly the DED and superficial keratopathy.
Groundwater Potential Zone Mapping: Integration of Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) and GIS Techniques for the Al-Qalamoun Region in Syria
Authors: Alrawi Imad , Chen Jianping , Othman Arsalan Ahmed
Published: December 2022

One of the most critical processes for the long-term management of groundwater resources is Groundwater Potential Zonation (GWPZ). Despite their importance, traditional groundwater studies are costly, difficult, complex, and time-consuming. This study aims to investigate GWPZ mapping for the Al-Qalamoun region, in the Western part of Syria. We combined the Multi-Influence Factor (MIF) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methods with the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to estimate the GWPZ. The weight and score factors of eight factors were used to develop the GWPZ including drainage density, lithology, slope, lineament density, geomorphology, land use/land cover, rainfall, and soil. According to the findings, about 46% and 50.6% of the total area of the Al-Qalamoun region was classified as suitable for groundwater recharge by the AHP and MIF methods, respectively. However, 54% and 49.4% of the area was classified as having poor suitability for groundwater recharge by the AHP and MIF methods, respectively. These areas with poor suitability can be utilized for gathering surface water. The validation of the results showed that the AHP and MIF methods have similar accuracy for the GWPZ; however, the accuracy and results depend on influencing factors and their weights assigned by experts.
Identification and Mapping of High Nature Value Farmland in the Yellow River Delta Using Landsat-8 Multispectral Data
Authors: Li Cailin , Lin Fan , Aizezi Aziguli , Zhang Zeao , Song Yingqiang , Sun Na
Published: December 2022

The development of high nature value farmland (HNVf) can effectively improve the problems of biodiversity reduction, non-point source pollution and carbon loss in intensive farmland. To this end, we developed a set of general indicators based on Landsat 8 OLI imagery, including land cover (LC), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), Shannon diversity (SH) and Simpson’s index (SI). Combined with a Kohonen neural network (KNN), we assigned weights and developed the first potential HNVf map of the Yellow River Delta in China. The results showed that the four indicators were very effective for the expression of HNVf characteristics in the study area, and that SH and SI, in particular, could reflect the potential characteristics of HNVf at the edge of intensive farmland. LC, NDVI, SH and SI were weighted as 0.45, 0.25, 0.15 and 0.15, respectively. It was found that the potential HNVf type 2 (i.e., low-intensity agriculture, and natural and structural elements such as shrubs, woodlands and small rivers) in the study area was concentrated at the edges of intensive farmland, the transition zones from farmland to rivers and the estuary wetland areas of northern and eastern rivers. LC played a leading role in identifying HNVf. Based on six randomly selected real-world verification data from Map World, it was found that the accuracy of the validation set for HNVf type 2 was 83.33%, which exhibited the good development potential of HNVf in the study area. This is the first potential HNVf type 2 map of the Yellow River Delta in China and could provide a great deal of potential guidance for the development and protection of farmland biodiversity and regional carbon sequestration.
Acetylation State of Lysine 14 of Histone H3.3 Affects Mutant Huntingtin Induced Pathogenesis
Authors: Faragó Anikó , Zsindely Nóra , Farkas Anita , Neller Alexandra , Siági Fruzsina , Szabó Márton Richárd , Csont Tamás , Bodai László
Published: December 2022

Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder caused by the expansion of a polyglutamine-coding CAG repeat in the Huntingtin gene. One of the main causes of neurodegeneration in HD is transcriptional dysregulation that, in part, is caused by the inhibition of histone acetyltransferase (HAT) enzymes. HD pathology can be alleviated by increasing the activity of specific HATs or by inhibiting histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes. To determine which histone’s post-translational modifications (PTMs) might play crucial roles in HD pathology, we investigated the phenotype-modifying effects of PTM mimetic mutations of variant histone H3.3 in a Drosophila model of HD. Specifically, we studied the mutations (K→Q: acetylated; K→R: non-modified; and K→M: methylated) of lysine residues K9, K14, and K27 of transgenic H3.3. In the case of H3.3K14Q modification, we observed the amelioration of all tested phenotypes (viability, longevity, neurodegeneration, motor activity, and circadian rhythm defects), while H3.3K14R had the opposite effect. H3.3K14Q expression prevented the negative effects of reduced Gcn5 (a HAT acting on H3K14) on HD pathology, while it only partially hindered the positive effects of heterozygous Sirt1 (an HDAC acting on H3K14). Thus, we conclude that the Gcn5-dependent acetylation of H3.3K14 might be an important epigenetic contributor to HD pathology.
Himatanthus bracteatus-Composed In Situ Polymerizable Hydrogel for Wound Healing
Authors: de Almeida Bernadeth M. , dos Santos Izabella D. Dorta , de Carvalho Felipe M. A. , Correa Luana C. , Cunha John L. S. , Dariva Claudio , Severino Patricia , Cardoso Juliana C. , Souto Eliana B. , de Albuquerque-Júnior Ricardo L. C.
Published: December 2022

The Himatanthus genus presents anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activities, suggesting potential wound-healing properties. This study aimed to develop and analyze the wound-healing properties of a photopolymerizable gelatin-based hydrogel (GelMA) containing an ethanolic extract of Himatanthus bracteatus in a murine model. The extract was obtained under high pressure conditions, incorporated (2%) into the GelMA (GelMA-HB), and physically characterized. The anti-inflammatory activity of the extract was assessed using a carrageenan-induced pleurisy model and the GelMA-HB scarring properties in a wound-healing assay. The extract reduced IL-1β and TNF-α levels (48.5 ± 6.7 and 64.1 ± 4.9 pg/mL) compared to the vehicle (94.4 ± 2.3 pg/mL and 106.3 ± 5.7 pg/mL; p < 0.001). GelMA-HB depicted significantly lower swelling and increased resistance to mechanical compression compared to GelMA (p < 0.05). GelMA-HB accelerated wound closure over the time course of the experiment (p < 0.05) and promoted a significantly greater peak of myofibroblast differentiation (36.1 ± 6.6 cells) and microvascular density (23.1 ± 0.7 microvessels) on day 7 in comparison to GelMA (31.9 ± 5.3 cells and 20.2 ± 0.6 microvessels) and the control (25.8 ± 4.6 cells and 17.5 ± 0.5 microvessels) (p < 0.05). In conclusion, GelMA-HB improved wound healing in rodents, probably by modulating the inflammatory response and myofibroblastic and microvascular differentiation.
Direct Cardiac Epigenetic Reprogramming through Codelivery of 5′Azacytidine and miR-133a Nanoformulation
Authors: Muniyandi Priyadharshni , Palaninathan Vivekanandan , Hanajiri Tatsuro , Maekawa Toru
Published: December 2022

Direct reprogramming of cardiac fibroblasts to induced cardiomyocytes (iCMs) is a promising approach to cardiac regeneration. However, the low yield of reprogrammed cells and the underlying epigenetic barriers limit its potential. Epigenetic control of gene regulation is a primary factor in maintaining cellular identities. For instance, DNA methylation controls cell differentiation in adults, establishing that epigenetic factors are crucial for sustaining altered gene expression patterns with subsequent rounds of cell division. This study attempts to demonstrate that 5′AZA and miR-133a encapsulated in PLGA-PEI nanocarriers induce direct epigenetic reprogramming of cardiac fibroblasts to cardiomyocyte-like cells. The results present a cardiomyocyte-like phenotype following seven days of the co-delivery of 5′AZA and miR-133a nanoformulation into human cardiac fibroblasts. Further evaluation of the global DNA methylation showed a decreased global 5-methylcytosine (5-medCyd) levels in the 5′AZA and 5′AZA/miR-133a treatment group compared to the untreated group and cells with void nanocarriers. These results suggest that the co-delivery of 5′AZA and miR-133a nanoformulation can induce the direct reprogramming of cardiac fibroblasts to cardiomyocyte-like cells in-vitro, in addition to demonstrating the influence of miR-133a and 5′AZA as epigenetic regulators in dictating cell fate.
Dihydrotanshinone I Inhibits the Lung Metastasis of Breast Cancer by Suppressing Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Formation
Authors: Zhao Huan , Liang Yi , Sun Chengtao , Zhai Yufei , Li Xuan , Jiang Mi , Yang Ruiwen , Li Xiaojuan , Shu Qijin , Kai Guoyin , Han Bing
Published: December 2022

Breast cancer (BC) is a common female malignancy, worldwide. BC death is predominantly caused by lung metastasis. According to previous studies, Dihydrotanshinone I (DHT), a bioactive compound in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (S. miltiorrhiza), has inhibitory effects on numerous cancers. Here, we investigated the anti-metastatic effect of DHT on BC, where DHT more strongly inhibited the growth of BC cells (MDA-MB-231, 4T1, MCF-7, and SKBR-3) than breast epithelial cells (MCF-10a). Additionally, DHT repressed the wound healing, invasion, and migration activities of 4T1 cells. In the 4T1 spontaneous metastasis model, DHT (20 mg/kg) blocked metastasis progression and distribution in the lung tissue by 74.9%. DHT reversed the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) induced by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, as well as ameliorated NETs-induced metastasis. Furthermore, it inhibited Ly6G+Mpo+ neutrophils infiltration and H3Cit expression in the lung tissues. RNA sequencing, western blot, and bioinformatical analysis indicated that TIMP1 could modulate DHT acting on lung metastasis inhibition. The study demonstrated a novel suppression mechanism of DHT on NETs formation to inhibit BC metastasis.
The Relationship between Reactive Oxygen Species and the cGAS/STING Signaling Pathway in the Inflammaging Process
Authors: Andrade Bárbara , Jara-Gutiérrez Carlos , Paz-Araos Marilyn , Vázquez Mary Carmen , Díaz Pablo , Murgas Paola
Published: December 2022

During Inflammaging, a dysregulation of the immune cell functions is generated, and these cells acquire a senescent phenotype with an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines and ROS. This increase in pro-inflammatory molecules contributes to the chronic inflammation and oxidative damage of biomolecules, classically observed in the Inflammaging process. One of the most critical oxidative damages is generated to the host DNA. Damaged DNA is located out of the natural compartments, such as the nucleus and mitochondria, and is present in the cell’s cytoplasm. This DNA localization activates some DNA sensors, such as the cGAS/STING signaling pathway, that induce transcriptional factors involved in increasing inflammatory molecules. Some of the targets of this signaling pathway are the SASPs. SASPs are secreted pro-inflammatory molecules characteristic of the senescent cells and inducers of ROS production. It has been suggested that oxidative damage to nuclear and mitochondrial DNA generates activation of the cGAS/STING pathway, increasing ROS levels induced by SASPs. These additional ROS increase oxidative DNA damage, causing a loop during the Inflammaging. However, the relationship between the cGAS/STING pathway and the increase in ROS during Inflammaging has not been clarified. This review attempt to describe the potential connection between the cGAS/STING pathway and ROS during the Inflammaging process, based on the current literature, as a contribution to the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms that occur and contribute to the development of the considered adaptative Inflammaging process during aging.
Plasma Fibulin-5 Levels as an Independent Predictor of a Poor Outcome after an Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Suzuki Yume , Oinaka Hiroki , Nakajima Hideki , Nampei Mai , Kawakita Fumihiro , Miura Yoichi , Yasuda Ryuta , Toma Naoki , Suzuki Hidenori ,   pSEED Group
Published: December 2022

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a poor-outcome disease with a delayed neurological exacerbation. Fibulin-5 (FBLN5) is one of matricellular proteins, some of which have been involved in SAH pathologies. However, no study has investigated FBLN5’s roles in SAH. This study was aimed at examining the relationships between serially measured plasma FBLN5 levels and neurovascular events or outcomes in 204 consecutive aneurysmal SAH patients, including 77 patients (37.7%) with poor outcomes (90-day modified Rankin Scale 3–6). Plasma FBLN5 levels were not related to angiographic vasospasm, delayed cerebral ischemia, and delayed cerebral infarction, but elevated levels were associated with severe admission clinical grades, any neurological exacerbation and poor outcomes. Receiver-operating characteristic curves indicated that the most reasonable cut-off values of plasma FBLN5, in order to differentiate 90-day poor from good outcomes, were obtained from analyses at days 4–6 for all patients (487.2 ng/mL; specificity, 61.4%; and sensitivity, 62.3%) and from analyses at days 7–9 for only non-severe patient (476.8 ng/mL; specificity, 66.0%; and sensitivity, 77.8%). Multivariate analyses revealed that the plasma FBLN5 levels were independent determinants of the 90-day poor outcomes in both all patients’ and non-severe patients’ analyses. These findings suggest that the delayed elevation of plasma FBLN5 is related to poor outcomes, and that FBLN5 may be a new molecular target to reveal a post-SAH pathophysiology.