bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translation and psychometric testing of the simplified version of the health-related diet and exercise self-efficacy scale in China
Authors: Mao Xia , Zeng Xuefang , Zhong Qinyi , Guo Jia
Published: August 2022

Background

Measuring health-related diet and exercise self-efficacy is an important first step in improving healthy behaviors and health outcomes. However, we did not find a self-efficacy measurement in Chinese that is specifically targeted at diet and exercise self-efficacy among healthy adults.

Aim

The present study aimed to translate the Health-Related Diet and Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale -simplified version into Mandarin Chinese (HRDESES) and evaluate its reliability and validity in Chinese healthy adults.

Methods

The HRDESES was translated and adapted to the Chinese context, with a good content validity of 0.86 among seven experts. The survey was then carried out in 216 adults in Hunan, China. Testing of the reliability included internal consistency reliability and test-retest reliability, while validity included content validity, construct validity, and criterion validity.

Results

The Cronbach's α of the HRDESES was 0.87 for the total scale, 0.86 for the diet subscale and 0.91 for the exercise subscale; the McDonald's ω of the HRDESES-SC was 0.85 for the total scale, 0.86 for the diet subscale and 0.91 for the exercise subscale, all demonstrating good internal consistency. The test-retest reliability was 0.88 for the total scale, 0.81 for the diet subscale and 0.82 for the exercise subscale, demonstrating good test-retest reliability. For construct validity, the scale effectively distinguished subjects by age, gender, education, occupation, marital status, and family income, showing good discriminant validity. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported a two-factor structure of the scale: diet and exercise subscale. It was demonstrated that the HRDESES was highly associated with the General Self-Efficacy Scale and its two subscales, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.83 to 0.86 (p < 0.05), showing high criterion validity.

Conclusion

The HRDESES had good reliability and validity and could be used as a simple and effective tool for assessing the health-related diet and exercise self-efficacy in Chinese healthy adults.
Total laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy with left posterior superior mesenteric artery first-approach and plexus-preserving circumferential lymphadenectomy: step-by-step technique with a surgical case report (with video)
Authors: Khiem Thanh , Hoi Ham , Hiep Tuan , Khue Kim , Duy Van , Inoue Yosuke , Son Hong , Dung Duc
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Total laparoscopic pancreaticoduodenectomy (tLPD) for cancer of the Vater remains a challenging procedure. Recently, several meta-analyses showed the superior aspects of “superior mesenteric artery (SMA)-first approach,” “systematic mesopancreas dissection,” and “circumferential lymphadenectomy around SMA” in increasing R0 resection rate and reducing postoperative complications including pancreatic fistula and bleeding as well as improving overall survival particularly.

Case presentation

Our patient is a 70-year-old female with a no special medical history, recruited because of jaundice. She was referred for pancreaticoduodenectomy because of a 10-mm-sized mass in distal bile duct referred to as Vater’s tumor. We used 5 trocars, and the patient was placed in a Trendelenburg position. The transverse colon was lifted, the first loop of the jejunum was pulled to the left, and lymph node groups 14th and 15th were removed en bloc and then exposed the SMA from the anterior to the left posterior side from the caudal side to the origin. The first jejunal vessels and the posterior inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery were ligated as well as the extensive mobility of the duodenum and head of the pancreas from the left side. The systematic mesopancreas dissection from the right site of the SMA will be easily and conveniently done afterwards. Histopathological examination of ypT2N1 indicated that 1 of the 22 lymph nodes was positive, which was 1 of 7 LN no. 14. Pathological results showed a Vater adenocarcinoma with all margins being negative.

Conclusions

This technique was safe and effective to perform precise level 2 mesopancreas dissection and complete lymphadenectomy around SMA without dissection of pl-SMA in laparoscopic field.
An efficient CRISPR-Cas9 enrichment sequencing strategy for characterizing complex and highly duplicated genomic regions. A case study in the Prunus salicina LG3-MYB10 genes cluster
Authors: Fiol Arnau , Jurado-Ruiz Federico , López‑Girona Elena , Aranzana Maria José
Published: August 2022

Background

Genome complexity is largely linked to diversification and crop innovation. Examples of regions with duplicated genes with relevant roles in agricultural traits are found in many crops. In both duplicated and non-duplicated genes, much of the variability in agronomic traits is caused by large as well as small and middle scale structural variants (SVs), which highlights the relevance of the identification and characterization of complex variability between genomes for plant breeding.

Results

Here we improve and demonstrate the use of CRISPR-Cas9 enrichment combined with long-read sequencing technology to resolve the MYB10 region in the linkage group 3 (LG3) of Japanese plum (Prunus salicina). This region, which has a length from 90 to 271 kb according to the P. salicina genomes available, is associated with fruit color variability in Prunus species. We demonstrate the high complexity of this region, with homology levels between Japanese plum varieties comparable to those between Prunus species. We cleaved MYB10 genes in five plum varieties using the Cas9 enzyme guided by a pool of crRNAs. The barcoded fragments were then pooled and sequenced in a single MinION Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) run, yielding 194 Mb of sequence. The enrichment was confirmed by aligning the long reads to the plum reference genomes, with a mean read on-target value of 4.5% and a depth per sample of 11.9x. From the alignment, 3261 SNPs and 287 SVs were called and phased. A de novo assembly was constructed for each variety, which also allowed detection, at the haplotype level, of the variability in this region.

Conclusions

CRISPR-Cas9 enrichment is a versatile and powerful tool for long-read targeted sequencing even on highly duplicated and/or polymorphic genomic regions, being especially useful when a reference genome is not available. Potential uses of this methodology as well as its limitations are further discussed.
Correction: LncRNA-mediated DNA methylation: an emerging mechanism in cancer and beyond
Authors: Huang Wanxu , Li Hua , Yu Qingsong , Xiao Wei , Wang Dan Ohtan
Published: August 2022

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Acute kidney injury-associated delirium: a review of clinical and pathophysiological mechanisms
Authors: Pang Haoming , Kumar Sanjeev , Ely E. Wesley , Gezalian Michael M. , Lahiri Shouri
Published: August 2022

Acute kidney injury is a known clinical risk factor for delirium, an acute cognitive dysfunction that is commonly encountered in the critically ill population. In this comprehensive review of clinical and basic research studies, we detail the epidemiology, clinical implications, pathogenesis, and management strategies of patients with acute kidney injury-associated delirium. Specifically addressed are the pathological roles of endogenous toxin or drug accumulation, acute kidney injury-mediated neuroinflammation, and acute kidney injury-associated volume overload as discrete potential biological mechanisms of the condition. The optimization of clinical contributors and normalization of renal function are reviewed as pragmatic management strategies in addition to potential and emerging therapeutic approaches.
In vitro total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of selected medicinal plants using different solvent systems
Authors: Mehmood Ansar , Javid Sonia , Khan Muhammad Faraz , Ahmad Khawaja Shafique , Mustafa Amna
Published: August 2022

Recently, an interest has surged in utilizing indigenous medicinal plants to treat infectious illnesses and extract bioactive substances, highlighting the need to analyze medicinal plants for phytochemicals and bioactivities. The present study was aimed to evaluate the impact of different solvent systems (aqueous, ethanol, and methanol) used for extraction on total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant, and antibacterial activity of three medicinal plants of Azad Kashmir (Achillea millefolium,Bergenia ciliata,andAloe vera). High phenolic content was found in methanol extracts ofB. ciliata(27.48 ± 0.58 mg GAE/g dry weight),A. vera(25.61 ± 0.33 mg GAE/g dry weight), andA. millefolium(24.25 ± 0.67 mg GAE/g dry weight). High flavonoid content was obtained in the ethanol extract ofA. millefolium(27.13 ± 0.64 mg QE/g dry weight), methanol extract ofB. ciliata(17.44 ± 0.44 ± 0.44 mg QE/g dry weight), and the methanol extract ofA. vera(14.68 ± 0.67 mg QE/g dry weight). Strong 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity (DPPH) was obtained with a methanol extract ofB. ciliata(IC50 = 60.27 ± 0.20 µg/mL). With a zone of inhibition and a minimum inhibitory concentration ranging from 10.00 ± 0.66 to 24.67 ± 1.21 mm and 78 to 625 µg/mL, respectively, all of the studied plants demonstrated notable antibacterial activity againstStaphylococcus aureusandEscherichia coli.A. verashowed greater antibacterial activity as compared to other plants under study while methanolic extract showed greater antibacterial activity than ethanolic and aqueous extract. The findings of this research support the use of these medicinal plants to treat a variety of diseases.
Synopsis of the ticks of Algeria with new hosts and localities records
Authors: Mechouk Noureddine , Mihalca Andrei Daniel , Deak Georgiana , Bouslama Zihad
Published: August 2022

Background

Ticks are obligate hematophagous arthropods with a world-wide distribution that are extremely important not only in terms of human and animal health but also economically. In Algeria, information on tick species is scarce.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed using online databases. The information extracted from the databases was was supplemented by information from an original study. Ticks were collected from various hosts and by flagging from January 2018 to December 2019.

Results

To date, in Algeria a total of 36 valid tick species belonging to two families have been recorded: (1) family Argasidae, with three Argas species and nine Ornithodoros species recorded; and (ii) family Ixodidae, with one Dermacentor species, three Haemaphysalis species, 10 Hyalomma species, four Ixodes species and six Rhipicephalus species recorded. The geographical distribution for each species was determined and listed. Eight new tick-host associations were recorded: four for Ixodes inopinatus sensu Estrada-Peña et al. 2014, one for Rhipicephalus bursa, one for R. turanicus, one for Hyalomma marginatum and one for Hy. lusitanicum. To our best knowledge, this study is the first to report the presence of I. inopinatus sensu Estrada-Peña et al. 2014 in Algeria. We also report here for the first time all tick species (Argasidae and Ixodidae) known to be present in Algeria.

Conclusion

This article represents a tool for students and scientists who work in the field of ticks and provides important new data on the distribution of ticks in Algeria.

Graphical Abstract
Placental imprinting of SLC22A3 in the IGF2R imprinted domain is conserved in therian mammals
Authors: Ishihara Teruhito , Griffith Oliver W. , Suzuki Shunsuke , Renfree Marilyn B.
Published: August 2022

Background

The eutherian IGF2R imprinted domain is regulated by an antisense long non-coding RNA, Airn, which is expressed from a differentially methylated region (DMR) in mice. Airn silences two neighbouring genes, Solute carrier family 22 member 2 (Slc22a2) and Slc22a3, to establish the Igf2r imprinted domain in the mouse placenta. Marsupials also have an antisense non-coding RNA, ALID, expressed from a DMR, although the exact function of ALID is currently unknown. The eutherian IGF2R DMR is located in intron 2, while the marsupial IGF2R DMR is located in intron 12, but it is not yet known whether the adjacent genes SLC22A2 and/or SLC22A3 are also imprinted in the marsupial lineage. In this study, the imprinting status of marsupial SLC22A2 and SLC22A3 in the IGF2R imprinted domain in the chorio-vitelline placenta was examined in a marsupial, the tammar wallaby.

Results

In the tammar placenta, SLC22A3 but not SLC22A2 was imprinted. Tammar SLC22A3 imprinting was evident in placental tissues but not in the other tissues examined in this study. A putative promoter of SLC22A3 lacked DNA methylation, suggesting that this gene is not directly silenced by a DMR on its promoter as seen in the mouse. Based on immunofluorescence, we confirmed that the tammar SLC22A3 is localised in the endodermal cell layer of the tammar placenta where nutrient trafficking occurs.

Conclusions

Since SLC22A3 is imprinted in the tammar placenta, we conclude that this placental imprinting of SLC22A3 has been positively selected after the marsupial and eutherian split because of the differences in the DMR location. Since SLC22A3 is known to act as a transporter molecule for nutrient transfer in the eutherian placenta, we suggest it was strongly selected to control the balance between supply and demand of nutrients in marsupial as it does in eutherian placentas.
Isolated posterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction: the necessity of routine 15-lead electrocardiography: a case series
Authors: Alsagaff Mochamad Yusuf , Amalia Rizki , Dharmadjati Budi Baktijasa , Appelman Yolande
Published: August 2022

Background

True isolated posterior myocardial infarction is an uncommon finding of acute coronary syndrome, with an incidence rate of 3–7%. The prevalence rates of isolated posterior myocardial infarction in men and women are 72% and 28%, respectively. This uncommon finding may be attributed to multiple factors, such as unremarkable changes on 12-lead electrocardiography, a lack of awareness or knowledge, and an absence of diagnostic consensus, which leads to reperfusion delay and poor clinical outcomes.

Case summary

Herein, we report three cases of acute myocardial infarction presenting as isolated ST-segment elevation in the posterior leads (V7–V9): Asian men aged 57, 62, and 53 years, who presented with ST-segment depression in V1–V3 that resolved gradually. Coronary angiography revealed a total/critical occlusion of the proximal circumflex coronary artery in all three cases. Routine and accurate interpretations of 15-lead electrocardiography (12-lead with additional V7–V9) resulted in a better sensitivity for isolated posterior myocardial infarction diagnoses, followed by a timely and opportune primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Conclusions

Isolated posterior myocardial infarction is a rare but potentially fatal event that is often accompanied by atypical and subtle changes on 12-lead electrocardiography (especially in the V1–V3 precordial leads) and may remain undetected by physicians. Therefore, the comprehensive and routine application of posterior leads is a crucial addition to the standard diagnosis and management of acute coronary syndrome in patients with subtle ST-segment changes who do not fulfill the criteria for ST-elevation myocardial infarction.
Mastopexy using de-epithelialised dermoglandular flaps: a case series for maximal volume conservation following breast implants removal
Authors: Khan Umar Daraz , Naseem Salma , Rafiq Sadia
Published: August 2022

Aims and objective

Removal of implants without replacement is often requested, and the procedure is more commonly performed today than ever before. However, the resultant loss of body image, secondary to the loss of breast volume, is not an outcome, that a patient is looking forward to. There is a lack of information on the options available to the patients following explantation. This case series presents an option of breast volume preservation and reshaping during mastopexy after breast implant removal that can be offered to selected patients. In the current case series, de-epithelialised dermoglandular flap mastopexy was used as an autologous tissue for breast reshaping and remodelling.

Material and methods

Since 2015, ten patients were selected for de-epithelialised dermoglandular mastopexy using wise pattern or vertical scar. Surgery was performed under general anaesthesia as a day case. A vertically oriented bipedicular dermoglandular flap was used for vertical scar mastopexy in two patients, and eight patients had Wise pattern incisions. Of these eight patients, four had superomedial and four had inferiorly based flaps for dermoglandular mastopexy and closure. All patients had a preoperative cup size D or larger.

Results

All patients had adequate results with an acceptable breast cup size. There was no skin breakdown, nipple loss, haematoma or infection.

Conclusion

De-epithelialised dermoglandular flap mastopexy is a safe procedure and can be used as an option in selected patients.

Level of Evidence

IV.
Evaluating the effects of analytical decisions in large-scale assessments: analyzing PISA mathematics 2003-2012
Authors: Heine Jörg-Henrik , Robitzsch Alexander
Published: August 2022

Research question

This paper examines the overarching question of to what extent different analytic choices may influence the inference about country-specific cross-sectional and trend estimates in international large-scale assessments. We take data from the assessment of PISA mathematics proficiency from the four rounds from 2003 to 2012 as a case study.

Methods

In particular, four key methodological factors are considered as analytical choices in the rescaling and analysis of the data: (1) The selection of country sub-samples for item calibration differing at three factor levels. (2) The item sample refering to two sets of mathematics items used within PISA. (3) The estimation method used for item calibration: marginal maximum likelihood estimation method as implemented in R package TAM or an pairwise row averaging approach as implemented in the R package pairwise. (4) The type of linking method: concurrent calibration or separate calibration with successive chain linking.

Findings

It turned out that analytical decisions for scaling did affect the PISA outcomes. The factors of choosing different calibration samples, estimation method and linking method tend to show only small effects on the country-specific cross-sectional and trend estimates. However, the selection of different link items seems to have a decisive influence on country ranking and development trends between and within countries.
Scientific policies of developing countries and mid-level entry strategy: from the perspective of a marine scientist
Authors: Lee Sang-Mook
Published: August 2022

Scientific developments are considered the primary source of the economic prosperity of a country. This faith in science appears stronger among economists and policymakers than those involved in day-to-day activities. However, science policy is often confused with a policy for science. The former is dictated by national interest and ideology, including long-term plans for the country. Because it is so crucial, whether to let scientists formulate the science policy of a nation is a long-standing issue in many countries. Policymakers and politicians generally provide the overall picture with some help from scientists. A common approach adopted by developing countries is the so-called ‘mid-level entry strategy.’ The idea is to dispense basic science to developed countries and focus on those areas that may bring immense profits. And when the time comes, and technology matures, bet heavily on those specific areas and jump ahead of the flock to reap the benefit. However, many consider DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) the most successful research and development (R&D) institution in the US. It is said that the accomplishment of the agency was possible because they started with basic science and moved up to applied and practical research. Doing so dominated the entire value chain, and the know-how was then disseminated to the public. Such observation leads one to conclude that, contrary to the myth of mid-level entry strategy, the real big reward for R&D of a country comes from starting at the fundamental level. On the other hand, because scientific and technological development is not straightforward, some examples may point to the contrary.
Level of asthma control and its determinants among adults living with asthma attending selected public hospitals in northwestern, Ethiopia: using an ordinal logistic regression model
Authors: Belachew Eyayaw Ashete , Tadess Sumeya , Alemayehu Mekuriaw , Ayele Emneteab Mesfin
Published: August 2022

Background

Asthma is a major public health challenge and is characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing that vary in severity and frequency from person to person. Asthma control is an important measure of health outcomes of the patients with asthma and reflecting the impact of an illness and its treatment from the patient’s perspective. Therefore, this study assessed the asthma control levels and their determinants among adults living with asthma in selected public referral hospitals in northwestern Ethiopia.

Materials and method

A multicenter institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted in North-western Ethiopia, from October to December 2021. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to recruit the study participants. Bi-variable and multivariable ordinal logistic regression was used to determine the independent predictors of asthma control levels. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Result

A total of 409 patients were included in the final analysis. Asthma was controlled by 28.9% with 95%CI (24.7, 33.5) people who have asthma. Regarding the potential predictor of asthma control level, being male (AOR = 6.5, 95%CI (1.28, 32.44), Married (AOR = 3.62, 95%CI (1.28, 10.27), healthcare provider adherence to guideline usage (AOR = 8.4,95%CI (2.7, 26) and non-fuel users (AOR = 6.0, 95%CI (1.5, 22.5) were variables that increase asthma control. However, non-adherent to medication (AOR = 0.16, 95%CI (0.059, 0.48), low level of patient enablement (AOR = 0.19, (95%CI) (0.08, 0.49) and poor relationship with healthcare provider (AOR = 0.024,95%CI (0.02, 0.23) were variables that significantly decreased asthma control level.

Conclusion

The findings indicated that asthma control remains suboptimal in a large proportion of patients with asthma in the study setting. Socio-demographic, clinical, healthcare-related, and medication-related variables were significantly associated with asthma control. Therefore, our study highlights multifaceted interventions, including comprehensive asthma education along with an integrated treatment plan to improve asthma control and quality of life.
Bedside insertion of a peripherally inserted central catheter into a patient with BMI of 84.8 kg/m2 using a magnetic tracking and electrocardiogram-based tip confirmation system: a case report
Authors: Uchida Satoshi , Takekawa Daiki , Hori Masaya , Hashiba Eiji , Hirota Kazuyoshi
Published: August 2022

Background

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are typically placed under fluoroscopy. We used a magnetic tracking and electrocardiogram-based tip confirmation system for insertion of a PICC insertion in a morbidly obese patient at the bedside.

Case presentation

A 53-year-old female with severe obesity (height, 160 cm; weight, 217 kg; BMI, 84.8 kg/m2) was admitted to the intensive care unit. Both bilateral, inguinal, and cervical regions were covered with an excess of adipose tissue, making it difficult to place a central venous line. Since transferring her to fluoroscopy seemed dangerous, a PICC was inserted using Sherlock 3CG® TCS at the bedside. Magnetic sensor guidance failed due to the thick subcutaneous tissue her precordium, but intracavity electrocardiography could direct the tip to an appropriate position.

Conclusion

We experienced bedside insertion of a PICC into a patient with BMI of 84.8 kg/m2 patient using a Sherlock 3CG® TCS. Since the interaction between Sherlock 3CG® TCS and body habitus has not been investigated, further reports are needed.
Vasomotor reactivity in patients with cerebral small vessel disease vs. internal border zone infarction and its correlation with disease outcome
Authors: Hamdy Sara , Fathy Mai , Elnasser Azza Abd , Darwish Eman A. F. , Hamid Eman , Aref Hany , El Nahas Nevine
Published: August 2022

Background

Available data collected from patients of different types of cerebrovascular strokes can detect risk factors, severity and clinical outcome of these patients. Differentiating between different types of strokes is mandatory for early diagnosis and proper management. The aim of this study is to compare between cerebral small vessel disease with lacunar infarctions and internal border zone infarctions regarding vasomotor reactivity by using transcranial color-coded duplex and its correlation with their MRI perfusion, disease severity and outcome.

Results

On admission, 56.7% of patients in lacunar stroke had impaired reactivity vs. 100% of patients in internal border zone group. At 3 months follow-up, this number dropped to 23.3% in lacunar group, but persisted as 100% in internal border zone group. On comparing the 3 perfusion parameters between the 2 groups, there was statistically significant impairment in all parameters in patients with internal border zone infarction than patients with lacunar infarction (longer time to peak, decreased cerebral blood flow and cerebral blood volume). By comparing the severity of the stroke by using National Institute of Health and Stroke Scale, it was found that patients with internal border zone infarction had higher disability than patients with lacunar infarction on admission and on discharge. At 3 months follow-up, the lacunar group had a better outcome than of the border zone group.

Conclusion

Patients having internal border zone infarction had higher clinical disability and worse prognosis, together with more impairment in vasomotor reactivity and MRI perfusion parameters than patients having lacunar infarction.
Weight stability in adults with obesity initiating medical marijuana treatment for other medical conditions
Authors: Lent Michelle R. , Visek Meghan , Syracuse Paulina , Dugosh Karen L. , Festinger David S.
Published: August 2022

Few studies have evaluated weight change in patients who initiate medical marijuana treatment to address diagnosed health concerns. The objective of this study was to examine whether patients initiating medical marijuana use for a qualifying health condition experienced changes in health and biopsychosocial functioning over time, including weight gain or loss. Specifically, this observational, longitudinal study evaluated changes in the body mass index (BMI) of adults with co-morbid obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m2) and severe obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2) who were starting medical marijuana treatment for any of the 23 qualifying medical conditions at one of three dispensaries in Pennsylvania. Height and weight measurements were collected at baseline (prior to medical marijuana use) and then 90 days (± 14 days) later. Participants included in analyses (n = 52, M = 55.0 ± 13.6 years, 59.6% female) had a mean baseline BMI of 36.2 ± 5.4 kg/m2 and the majority sought medical marijuana for chronic pain (73.1%). No significant change in BMI was observed from baseline to month three (p > 0.05) in the sample. Additionally, no significant change in BMI was observed in the subset of patients with severe obesity (n = 12, p > 0.05). Our findings are limited by low follow-up rates and convenience sampling methodology but may help to mitigate weight gain concerns in the context of medical marijuana use.
Study on equilibrium moisture sorption characteristics and modeling of Karaya (Sterculia urens Roxb.) gum
Authors: Saraugi Shristi Shefali , Patel Shadanan , Sahu Chandrahas , Khokhar Dharmendra
Published: August 2022

Background

Karaya gum is heavily acetylated polysaccharide and used for medicinal purposes as a bulk-forming laxative. It is also used in the paper and textile industries as well as food stabilizer. So its moisture sorption behavior study is important. The moisture sorption isotherms of karaya gum were investigated at four experimental temperatures (30, 40, 50 and 60 °C) under the water activities range from 0.10 to 0.95 using static gravimetric method.

Results

Maximum value of equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of karaya gum (39.7%, db) was noted with the set of highest water activity (0.92) at lowest temperature (30 °C) and minimum value of EMC (2.5%, db) with lowest water activity (0.11) at highest temperature (60 °C). The sorption data were fitted with GAB, Iglesias and Chirife, Caurie, Halsey and BET models. The adequacy of the sorption isotherm models were observed statistically using goodness of fit parameters. The well-known GAB model best interpreted the equilibrium data in a satisfactory manner in the test gum. The monolayer moisture content, estimated using GAB model, was found to be 12.66 g/100 g and 7.4 g/100 g gum at 30 °C and 60 °C, respectively. The isosteric heat of sorption was found to be maximum (36.24 kJ/mol) at 5% moisture content (db) of karaya gum.

Conclusion

Moisture sorption behavior of karaya gum was found to be temperature dependent. EMC decreases with the increase in temperature at particular water activity. The sorption behavior of the test gum expressed the typical type-II sigmoid-shaped curve. Isosteric heat of sorption of karaya gum was decreased with the increase in moisture content.
Food safety knowledge and practice of abattoir and butcher shop workers: a health risk management perspective
Authors: Gebeyehu Daniel Teshome , Tsegaye Habtam
Published: August 2022

Background

Meat is rich in essential proteins and valuable nutrients for human health. Despite these benefits, it is a favorable medium for microbial growth and transmission to humans unless recommended safety procedures are followed. This research aimed to assess the level of knowledge and practice of the abattoir and butcher shop workers who were working in the meat value chain.

Methods

The cross-sectional study design, using structured questionnaire interviews was used to assess the knowledge and practice of abattoir and butcher shop workers. A total of 226 randomly selected workers were participated in this study and bivariate logistic regression was used for data analysis.

Results

Of 226 total participants, 46% were abattoir workers and 54% were butcher shop workers. Majority (88.9%) of the participants did not know about meat safety and 74.3% of the participants had insufficient practices. The cumulative knowledge of both abattoir and butcher shop workers was significantly associated (p = 0.001) with their knowledge of the presence of diseases causing agents in meat, the source of meat contamination, and the common critical points of meat contamination along the meat value chain. The cumulative practice of abattoir workers was significantly associated with their practices on daily meat transporting vehicle washing (p = 0.007), reducing meat contamination (p = 0.001), duration of animal fasting before slaughter (p = 0.039), cleaning of the animal body before slaughter (p = 0.002), cleaning material used in the abattoir (p = 0.003), disposal of abattoir waste (p = 0.002), and type of biosecurity measures used (p = 0.013). Similarly, the cumulative practice of butcher shop workers was associated (p = 0.001) with their practices of attracting customers, storing remaining meat from daily sales, and measures on contaminated food. Employment of the participants was significantly associated with both the cumulative knowledge (p = 0.007) and practice (p = 0.001) of the participants while the age of the participants was associated (p = 0.001) with only their cumulative practices.

Conclusions

In general, the participants’ food safety knowledge and practice were unsatisfactory. As a result, the integrated food safety policy formulation in a One Health framework, and collaborative awareness creation among different food safety stakeholders were recommended.
Congenital heart disease in a patient with COVID-19 infection during early pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Abdelkader Mohamed Ali , Abbas Hamed Mohamed , Aboelkhair Ibrahim Mohamed , Alafify Aliaa Salah Ali , Elgazzar Basim Abdelfattah , Koura Mai Salah El-Din
Published: August 2022

Background

Since the end of 2019, the world has been afflicted by a coronavirus pandemic caused by coronavirus 2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome) (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 causes a wide range of signs and symptoms with varying consequences. The impact of the COVID-19 infection on pregnant women and their fetuses is still under investigation.

Case presentation

A case of a 34-years-old non-vaccinated pregnant woman who had a COVID-19 infection in the first month of her pregnancy and went into premature labor at 34 weeks was reported. Congenital heart disease and hydrops were present in the fetus. The infant girl was cyanotic after delivery, experienced bradycardia, and was in poor overall condition; she was admitted to the NICU and died 5 days later.

Conclusions

Some theories suggest that SARS-CoV-2 may be transmitted vertically from mother to fetus. Congenital abnormalities can be caused by a variety of viruses. Although, congenital heart diseases can occur due to different causes, we suggest that COVID-19 may play a role in the development of congenital heart defects.
Polish adaptation of self-report instruments for studying borderline personality traits – FFBI and FFBI-SF
Authors: Brud Piotr Paweł , Cieciuch Jan
Published: August 2022

Cel pracy

W artykule przedstawiono wyniki badań polskiej adaptacji samoopisowych kwestionariuszy FFBI (Five Factor Borderline Inventory) i FFBI-SF (Five Factor Borderline Inventory – Short Form), które zostały opracowane do pomiaru cech osobowości borderline.

Metoda

Badanie, które składało się z dwóch sesji, obejmowało niekliniczną próbę N = 527 dorosłych (1 sesja: N = 527; Mwiek = 32,74 lat; SDwiek = 10,12 lat; 44% mężczyzn; 2 sesja: N = 315; Mwiek = 33,56 lat; SDwiek = 10,71 lat; 48,6% mężczyzn). W celu zweryfikowania trafności zbieżnej i różnicowej zastosowano Borderline Personality Disorder Checklist (BPD Checklist), Screening Instrument for Borderline Personality Disorder (SI-Bord), Borderline Personality Inventory (BPI) i Personality Inventory for ICD-11 (PiCD).

Wyniki

Wyniki wykazały, że polskie adaptacje FFBI i FFBI-SF są rzetelne i trafne. Współczynnik alfa Cronbacha dla wyników skal FFBI/FFBI-SF wahał się od 0,80 do 0,94/0,67 do 0,91 (Mα = 0,89/Mα = 0,84). Uzyskano dwunastoczynnikową strukturę pozycji testowych FFBI/FFBI-SF. Wszystkie cechy FFBI/FFBI-SF są powiązane w oczekiwany sposób z aspektami borderline mierzonymi za pomocą BPD Checklist, SI-Bord, BPI oraz patologicznymi cechami osobowości mierzonymi za pomocą PiCD.

Wnioski

Uzyskane wyniki wykazują zadowalającą spójność wewnętrzną, trafność czynnikową, oraz trafność zbieżną i różnicową polskich adaptacji FFBI i FFBI-SF w próbie nieklinicznej.
The risk of increased daytime sleepiness and obstructive sleep apnea among the group of professional drivers
Authors: Bąk Ewelina , Napierała Jolanta
Published: August 2022

Introduction and purpose: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common clinical problem in the group of diseases classified as sleep breathing disorders. Professional drivers are a group that is particularly exposed to the consequences of OSA during the day. This is a very significant problem as chronic daytime sleepiness and falling asleep at the wheel are now recognized as one of the leading causes of road accidents caused by drivers.The aim of the study was to assess the risk of excessive daytime sleepiness and obstructive sleep apnea among the group of professional drivers. Material and methods: The research group consisted of 101 people employed as a professional driver. In order to assess excessive daytime sleepiness and the risk of obstructive sleep apnea, the Epworth sleepiness scale, the Berlin Questionnaire and the self-questionnaire were used. Results: Among 45 drivers (44.6%) had a high risk of OSA using the Berlin Questionnaire, and 56 drivers (55.4%) had a low risk of OSA. According to the Epworth sleepiness scale, it was found that 19.8% of drivers experienced mild daytime sleepiness and 13.9% were drivers with excessive daytime sleepiness require medical consultation. In drivers with a high risk of OSA, the relationship with increased excessive daytime sleepiness was confirmed in the Berlin Questionnaire (85.7%). Conclusions: Among professional drivers, the risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea increases due to risk factors. There is a relationship between excessive daytime sleepiness and risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea.
Diabetes mellitus and COVID-19: current state of knowledge
Authors: Wasilewska Inga , Rezmer Jakub , Świątek Łukasz
Published: August 2022

Introduction:
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by disturbances in carbohydrate metabolism. Long-term high blood glucose levels can lead to a variety of serious complications and organ failure. Diabetic patients are particularly at risk of the severe course of COVID-19.
Objective:
The study aimed to investigate the relationship between diabetes and COVID-19. The literature available in the PubMed database was used to carry out a systematic review of the literature. The meta-analyzes from 2021 and 2022 were used for the analysis, with the inclusion of the phrases "DIABETES" and "COVID-19" in the title.
A brief description of the state of knowledge:
Diabetes does not increase the incidence of COVID-19, but the risk of severe disease is higher in patients with diabetes compared to the non-diabetic population. This is especially true of patients with uncontrolled glycaemia. SARS-CoV-2 disrupts the carbohydrate metabolism, can damage pancreatic beta cells and, in this mechanism, induce diabetes or cause the progression of pre-existing diabetes. There is an increased incidence of COVID-19 complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome and death in patients with diabetes.
Conclusions:
Diabetic patients are at a higher risk of the severe course and rapid progression of COVID-19. Important in COVID-19 therapy is glycemic control and monitoring the percentage of glycosylated hemoglobin, CRP and D-dimers. The modification of the current treatment may be necessary. In patients who have undergone COVID-19, attention should be paid to the possibility of induction of diabetes or dysregulation of carbohydrate metabolism in patients suffering from diabetes previously.
Ranula as an early symptom of Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Aleksandrowicz Jakub , Zielińska Martyna , Zarankiewicz Natalia , Kuchnicka Julia , Kosz Katarzyna , Kuchnicka Aleksandra , Sapuła Klaudia , Remjasz Klaudia , Siedlecki Wojciech , Fabiś Mateusz
Published: August 2022

Introduction and purpose: 

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease affecting exocrine glands, mainly salivary glands. A ranula is a type of retention cyst associated with salivary extravasation that develops within the large salivary glands. The most common reason of developing ranula is trauma of bottom of the oral cavity. Damaging the sublingual gland, due to changes in Sjögren’s syndrome, may lead to the development of ranula. The aim of this review is to analyze the possible impact of ranulas on early diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome.

Material and method:

This review was based on articles collected in PubMed and published in the years 2003-2021 and books from 2009 and 2018. Articles were chosen using keywords such as "Sjögren's syndrome", "ranula", “mucocele” and "early diagnosis".

Results:

Ranulas are considered to be early clinical signs of Sjögren's syndrome. Undergoing diagnostic imaging in patients with ranulas allows to diagnose Sjögren's syndrome in early stage and implement appropriate therapy.

Conclusion:

Identification of ranula should suggest implementation of diagnostics of Sjögren's syndrome using imaging methods such as magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasonography. Early diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome is crucial to start the adequate treatment and get better results. It is recommended to include imaging tests in the diagnostic criteria of adolescent and adult SS in order to facilitate the diagnosis at an earlier stage of the disease.
Endocrine disease in guinea pigs: a review on hyperthyroidism
Authors: Vandekerckove Julie
Published: August 2022

While guinea pigs may suffer from a number of endocrine diseases such as hyperthyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism and diabetes mellitus, this literature review will focus on the current understanding and gaps in research on hyperthyroidism in this species. The purpose of this review is to describe the most recent recommendations on diagnostic and therapeutic options for hyperthyroidism in guinea pigs, based on previously published papers.
Managing canine apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jaworski Janek , Harper Aaron
Published: August 2022

Canine apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma represents a common challenge for veterinary practitioners. This is often partly because the majority of animals diagnosed with apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma show no systemic signs at the time of presentation. Moreover, rectal examinations are not frequently performed during routine physical examinations, making it difficult to diagnose a mass at an early stage. An understanding of the disease process, common metastatic sites, diagnostic modalities and multimodal treatment approaches will help practitioners achieve better clinical outcomes for animals diagnosed with apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma. Furthermore, knowledge of prognostic indicators will help practitioners to set realistic expectations with their clients and improve clinician–client communication. This article focuses on the predisposition, staging, multimodal treatment therapies and outcomes of dogs presenting with apocrine gland anal sac adenocarcinoma.
Diagnosis and initial management of uroabdomen in dogs and cats
Authors: Fioletti Alberto , Gosling Mark , Trimble Toby
Published: August 2022

Uroabdomen is a life-threatening condition occurring in dogs and cats, caused by loss of integrity of the urinary tract. A prompt diagnosis can be achieved by recognition and analysis of abdominal free fluid. A clinician's initial focus should be on treating potentially fatal complications, such as shock and hyperkalaemia, and providing adequate analgesia to the animal. Different urinary diversion techniques can then be considered, according to the site of leakage within the urinary tract, to stabilise the animal before a definitive treatment is performed. This article discusses how to diagnose uroabdomen and treat the early life-threatening complications.
The Effect of Embedding Phonological Awareness Training on Adult EFL Learners’ Phonological Awareness Skill
Authors: Hentasmaka Daning , Cahyono Bambang Yudi , Basthomi Yazid , Puspitasari Yunita
Published: August 2022

Phonological awareness relates closely to listening and speaking skills. It also has an important role in learning to read in an alphabetic writing system. In the context of learning a new language, it is essential to figure out an appropriate strategy in accelerating the phonological awareness skill. The present study aims at investigating the effect of embedding phonological awareness training in adult English as a foreign language (EFL) learners’ phonological awareness skill. It involved 63 EFL students who were divided into two groups: Experimental and control. The data were taken by using a phonological awareness test and analyzed by using independent samples t-test. The overall comparison showed that the experimental group who received an embedded phonological awareness training for 4.5 hours (45 minutes of six meetings) surpassed the control group who joined a regular vocabulary class without phonological awareness training (p = .017). Thus, phonological awareness training effectively accelerates adult EFL learners’ phonological awareness skills.
Implementing Project-Based Blended Learning Model Using Cognitive Conflict Strategy to Enhance Students’ Mathematical Spatial Literacy
Authors: Sari Rika Mulyati Mustika , Priatna Nanang , Juandi Dadang
Published: August 2022

High school teachers are mentors and facilitators that must be concerned about their students' formal thinking abilities. Students may not take a conservation task seriously because they perform operations without consulting. This necessitates modifying the learning process to increase student motivation. Therefore, this study aimed to examine students' mathematical spatial literacy through project-based blended learning with the cognitive conflict strategy. The study sample comprised 129 students, including 66 and 63 in the experimental and control classes, respectively, divided into the low, medium, and high levels. The findings showed that the experimental class students using project-based blended learning with the cognitive conflict strategy had higher mathematical spatial literacy than those in the control class using problem-based learning. Project-based blended learning with the cognitive conflict strategy and problem-based learning students at the high and moderate levels differed in their ability to increase their mathematical spatial literacy. However, low-level students are comparable in their ability to increase their mathematical spatial literacy.
Translanguaging as a Scaffolded Practice in a Primary School Content and Language Integrated Learning Context During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Setyaningrum Rina Wahyu , Setiawan Slamet , Anam Syafi’ul
Published: August 2022

Translanguaging enables students to communicate in multiple languages in an English-dominant classroom. It has received considerable attention from scholars in content and language integrated learning (CLIL). Its implementation in primary schools in European countries has been adopted in Asian countries, including Indonesia. This study employed a narrative inquiry investigating a teacher who taught first graders both content matter and English during the COVID-19 forced-remote learning. Furthermore, data were gathered using semi-structured interviews to guide the participant in narrating CLIL science teaching experiences. Virtual observations were carried out eight times to obtain evidence of translanguaging practiced. Due to forced-remote learning, the results indicated that the teacher had to find the most convenient ways to instruct the young students without adding to their burden. Furthermore, it was reported that scaffolding by translanguaging was planned systematically by valuing the students’ L1 and alternating it with English as the target language. The findings also discussed the practical implications of this study to maintain young learners' (YLs) engagement through translanguaging strategies.