bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anoctamin 5 (ANO5) Muscle Disorders: A Narrative Review
Authors: Soontrapa Pannathat , Liewluck Teerin
Published: September 2022

Anoctaminopathy-5 refers to a group of hereditary skeletal muscle or bone disorders due to mutations in the anoctamin 5 (ANO5)-encoding gene, ANO5. ANO5 is a 913-amino acid protein of the anoctamin family that functions predominantly in phospholipid scrambling and plays a key role in the sarcolemmal repairing process. Monoallelic mutations in ANO5 give rise to an autosomal dominant skeletal dysplastic syndrome (gnathodiaphyseal dysplasia or GDD), while its biallelic mutations underlie a continuum of four autosomal recessive muscle phenotypes: (1). limb–girdle muscular dystrophy type R12 (LGMDR12); (2). Miyoshi distal myopathy type 3 (MMD3); (3). metabolic myopathy-like (pseudometabolic) phenotype; (4). asymptomatic hyperCKemia. ANO5 muscle disorders are rare, but their prevalence is relatively high in northern European populations because of the founder mutation c.191dupA. Weakness is generally asymmetric and begins in proximal muscles in LGMDR12 and in distal muscles in MMD3. Patients with the pseudometabolic or asymptomatic hyperCKemia phenotype have no weakness, but conversion to the LGMDR12 or MMD3 phenotype may occur as the disease progresses. There is no clear genotype–phenotype correlation. Muscle biopsy displays a broad spectrum of pathology, ranging from normal to severe dystrophic changes. Intramuscular interstitial amyloid deposits are observed in approximately half of the patients. Symptomatic and supportive strategies remain the mainstay of treatment. The recent development of animal models of ANO5 muscle diseases could help achieve a better understanding of their underlying pathomechanisms and provide an invaluable resource for therapeutic discovery.
Exome Sequencing Identifies a Biallelic GALNS Variant (p.Asp233Asn) Causing Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IVA in a Pakistani Consanguineous Family
Authors: Ghafoor Saima , Silveira Karina da Costa , Qamar Raheel , Azam Maleeha , Kannu Peter
Published: September 2022

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) type IVA is a lysosomal storage disease that mainly affects the skeletal system and is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme N-acetylgalactosamine-6-sulfatase (GALNS). The condition can mistakenly be diagnosed as a primary skeletal dysplasia such as spondylo-epiphyseal dysplasia, which shares many similar phenotypic features. Here, we utilised whole exome sequencing to make the diagnosis of MPS IVA in a resource poor country. We report for the first time the identification of a biallelic GALNS missense variant (c.697G>A, p.Asp233Asn) in the Pakistani population and highlight the potential contribution that academic institutions can make in rare disease diagnosis in the absence of a developed clinical genetic service.
A Splice Variant of the MYH7 Gene Is Causative in a Family with Isolated Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Myasnikov Roman P. , Kulikova Olga V. , Meshkov Alexey N. , Bukaeva Anna A. , Kiseleva Anna V. , Ershova Alexandra I. , Petukhova Anna V. , Divashuk Mikhail G. , Zotova Evgenia D. , Sotnikova Evgeniia A. , Abisheva Alexandra A. , Muraveva Alisa V. , Koretskiy Sergey N. , Popov Sergey V. , Utkina Marina V. , Snigir Ekaterina A. , Mitrofanov Sergey I. , Konureeva Ksenia D. , Mershina Elena A. , Sinitsyn Valentin E. , Yudin Sergey M. , Drapkina Oxana M.
Published: September 2022

Variants of the MYH7 gene have been associated with a number of primary cardiac conditions, including left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC). Most cases of MYH7-related diseases are associated with such variant types as missense substitutions and in-frame indels. Thus, truncating variants in MYH7 (MYH7tv) and associated mechanism of haploinsufficiency are usually considered not pathogenic in these disorders. However, recent large-scale studies demonstrated evidence of the significance of MYH7tv for LVNC and gave rise to an assumption that haploinsufficiency may be the causal mechanism for LVNC. In this article, we present a family with isolated LVNC and a heterozygous splice variant of the MYH7 gene, analyze possible consequences of this variant and conclude that not all variants that are predicted truncating really act through haploinsufficiency. This study can highlight the importance of a precise assessment of MYH7 splicing variants and their participation in the development of LVNC.
Rock Mechanical Laboratory Testing of Thebes Limestone Formation (Member I), Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Egypt
Authors: Alcaíno-Olivares Rodrigo , Ziegler Martin , Bickel Susanne , Ismaiel Hesham , Leith Kerry , Perras Matthew
Published: September 2022

The Thebes Limestone Formation of Lower Eocene age is one of the most extensive rock units in Egypt. It is of importance to the apogee of the ancient Egyptian civilization, particularly in Luxor (South-Central Egypt), where the rock formation hosts the Theban Necropolis, a group of funerary chambers and temples from the New Kingdom Egyptian era (3500–3000 BP). In this work, we investigated the petrophysical and rock mechanical properties (e.g., rock strength, critical crack stress thresholds) through laboratory tests on eleven rock blocks collected from one area within the Theban Necropolis known as the Valley of the Kings (KV). The blocks belong to Member I of the Thebes Limestone Formation, including six blocks of marly limestone, three blocks of micritic limestone, one block of argillaceous limestone from the Upper Esna Shale Formation, and one block of silicified limestone of unknown origin. Special attention was given to the orientation of bedding planes in the samples: tests were conducted in parallel (PA) and perpendicular (PE) configurations with respect to bedding planes. We found that the marly limestone had an average unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of 30 MPa and 39 MPa for the PA and PE tests, respectively. Similarly, the micritic limestone tests showed an average UCS of 24 MPa for the PA orientation and 58 MPa for the PE orientation. The critical crack thresholds were the first ever reported for Member I, as measured with strain gauge readings. The average crack initiation (CI) stress thresholds for the marly limestone (PA: 14 MPa) and the micritic limestone (PA: 11 MPa; PE: 24 MPa) fall within the typical ratio of CI to UCS (0.36–0.52). The micritic limestone had an average Young’s modulus (E) of 19.5 GPa and 10.3 GPa for PA and PE, respectively. The Poisson’s ratios were 0.2 for PA and 0.1 for PE on average. Both marly and micritic limestone can be characterised by a transverse isotropic strength behaviour with respect to bedding planes. The failure strength for intact anisotropic rocks depends on the orientation of the applied force, which must be considered when assessing the stability of tombs and cliffs in the KV and will be used to understand and improve the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Developing a Cold-Related Mortality Database in Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Md. Mahbub , Mahtab A.S.M. , Ahmed M. Razu , Hassan Quazi K.
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to develop a database of historical cold-related mortality in Bangladesh using information obtained from online national newspapers and to analyze such data to understand the spatiotemporal distribution, demographic dynamics, and causes of deaths related to cold temperatures in winter. We prepared a comprehensive database containing information relating to the winter months (December to February) of 2009–2021 for the eight administrative divisions of Bangladesh and systematically removed redundant records. We found that 1249 people died in Bangladesh during this period due to cold and cold-related illnesses, with an average of 104.1 deaths per year. The maximum number of cold-related deaths (36.51%) occurred in the Rangpur Division. The numbers were much higher here than in the other divisions because Rangpur has the lowest average monthly air temperature during the winter months and the poorest socioeconomic conditions. The primary peak of cold-related mortality occurred during 21–31 December, when cold fronts from the Himalayas entered Bangladesh through the Rangpur Division in the north. A secondary peak occurred on 11–20 January each year. Our results also showed that most of the cold-related mortality cases occurred when the daily maximum temperature was lower than 21 °C. Demographically, the highest number of deaths was observed in children aged six years and under (50.68%), followed by senior citizens 65 years and above (20.42%). Fewer females died than males, but campfire burns were the primary cause of female deaths. Most mortality in Bangladesh was due to the cold (75.5%), cold-triggered illness (10.65%), and campfire burns (5.8%). The results of this research will assist policymakers in understanding the importance of taking necessary actions that protect vulnerable public health from cold-related hazards in Bangladesh.
Describing the Rehabilitation Workforce Capacity in the Public Sector of Three Rural Provinces in South Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Conradie Thandi , Berner Karina , Louw Quinette
Published: September 2022

The World Health Organisation emphasises the importance of addressing gaps in health systems where rehabilitation services are poorly integrated. In South Africa, regions with the largest disability rates are usually the areas where rehabilitation is least accessible, due to inadequate workforce capacity. The first step towards addressing workforce capacity is to determine current capacity. This paper presents a cross-sectional study to describe rehabilitation workforce data in the public sector of three rural South African provinces. A web-based therapist survey and a telephonic facility survey was conducted. Data were collected regarding total number of therapists per province, age, years employed, qualifications, salary level, profession type, level of care, and rural/urban distribution. Descriptive statistics were conducted, while Chi-squared tests compared professions regarding highest qualification and salary level. Population-adjusted ratios were calculated using national uninsured population statistics. The web-based survey had 639 responses while the telephonic survey reported on 1166 therapists. Results indicated that the mean age of therapists across the respective provinces was 28, 35 and 31 years of age, and the mean employment years in the respective provinces were three, eight and five years. Most of the workforce (n = 574) had a bachelor’s degree as their highest qualification. A total of 27% of the workforce were community service therapists and 61% of therapists earned a production-level salary. Occupational therapy was best (40%) and speech and audiology therapy least (7%) represented. Three percent of therapists worked at primary level, versus eighty percent at secondary level. Forty percent of therapists worked in rural areas. Workforce density per province ranged from 0.71–0.98 per 10,000 population. Overall, results show that the rehabilitation workforce density is low, and that the distribution of therapists between rural and urban settings, and levels of care, is inequitable. Considering the rise in rehabilitation need, prioritisation and strengthening of the rehabilitation workforce capacity is vital to ensure integration across all levels of care and service.
Predicting Heavy Metal Concentrations in Shallow Aquifer Systems Based on Low-Cost Physiochemical Parameters Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Huynh Thi-Minh-Trang , Ni Chuen-Fa , Su Yu-Sheng , Nguyen Vo-Chau-Ngan , Lee I-Hsien , Lin Chi-Ping , Nguyen Hoang-Hiep
Published: September 2022

Monitoring ex-situ water parameters, namely heavy metals, needs time and laboratory work for water sampling and analytical processes, which can retard the response to ongoing pollution events. Previous studies have successfully applied fast modeling techniques such as artificial intelligence algorithms to predict heavy metals. However, neither low-cost feature predictability nor explainability assessments have been considered in the modeling process. This study proposes a reliable and explainable framework to find an effective model and feature set to predict heavy metals in groundwater. The integrated assessment framework has four steps: model selection uncertainty, feature selection uncertainty, predictive uncertainty, and model interpretability. The results show that Random Forest is the most suitable model, and quick-measure parameters can be used as predictors for arsenic (As), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn). Although the model performance is auspicious, it likely produces significant uncertainties. The findings also demonstrate that arsenic is related to nutrients and spatial distribution, while Fe and Mn are affected by spatial distribution and salinity. Some limitations and suggestions are also discussed to improve the prediction accuracy and interpretability.
Contamination Assessment and Temporal Evolution of Nitrates in the Shallow Aquifer of the Metauro River Plain (Adriatic Sea, Italy) after Remediation Actions
Authors: Taussi Marco , Gozzi Caterina , Vaselli Orlando , Cabassi Jacopo , Menichini Matia , Doveri Marco , Romei Marco , Ferretti Alfredo , Gambioli Alma , Nisi Barbara
Published: September 2022

Over the last decades, groundwater resources at global level have suffered a significant deterioration due to nitrate pollution, mainly related to the input of agricultural fertilizers, manure, sewage, and untreated urban and industrial effluents. The most impacted waters are those forming surface and shallow reservoirs, which usually play a key role in supplying waters to civil, agricultural, and industrial activities. The terminal portion of the Metauro River plain, located in central Italy along the Adriatic Sea coastline, hosts a strategic phreatic aquifer that, along with the surface water of the Metauro River, supplies water to the local population (i.e., about 60,000 people). This shallow coastal aquifer experiences a long-lasting story of nitrate contamination since the 1970s when the increase in the use of agricultural fertilizers contributed to very high levels of pollution (NO3− > 100 mg/L). This fact prompted the local authorities to carry out remediation actions that involve a pumping system to inject the NO3−-poor waters from the Metauro River course directly into the shallow aquifer. The present work was aimed at defining the contamination of nitrates in this important water resource. The main geochemical characteristics and the temporal evolution of NO3− concentrations (between 2009 and 2020), in the shallow coastal aquifer of the Metauro River plain, were analyzed by means of classical geochemical analyses and multivariate methods accounting for the compositional nature of the data, to assess the efficiency of the in-situ remediation over time.
Escaping from Air Pollution: Exploring the Psychological Mechanism behind the Emergence of Internal Migration Intention among Urban Residents
Authors: Vuong Quan-Hoang , Le Tam-Tri , Khuc Quy Van , Nguyen Quang-Loc , Nguyen Minh-Hoang
Published: September 2022

Rapid urbanization with poor city planning has resulted in severe air pollution in urban areas of low- and middle-income countries. Given the adverse impacts of air pollution, citizens may develop ideation of averting behaviors, including migration to another region. The current study explores the psychological mechanism and demographic predictors of internal migration intention among urban people in Hanoi, Vietnam—one of the most polluted capital cities in the world. The Bayesian Mindsponge Framework (BMF) analytics was used to construct a model and perform Bayesian analysis on a stratified random sampling dataset of 475 urban people. We found that migration intention was negatively associated with an individual’s satisfaction with air quality. The association was moderated by the perceived availability of a nearby alternative (i.e., a nearby province/city with better air quality). The high migration cost due to geographical distance made the moderation effect of the perceived availability of a faraway alternative negligible. These results validate the proposed psychological mechanism behind the emergence of migration intention. Moreover, it was found that male and young people were more likely to migrate. While the brain drain effect did not clearly show, it is likely due to complex underlying interactions of various related factors (e.g., age and gender). The results hint that without air pollution mitigation measures, the dislocation of economic forces might occur and hinder sustainable urban development. Therefore, collaborative actions among levels of government, with the environmental semi-conducting principle at heart, are recommended to reduce air pollution.
Access to Health-Related Information, Health Services, and Welfare Services among South and Southeast Asian Immigrants in Japan: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Matsuoka Sadatoshi , Kharel Madhu , Koto-Shimada Kyoko , Hashimoto Maiko , Kiyohara Hiroyuki , Iwamoto Azusa , Nishihara Mika , Fujita Masami
Published: September 2022

Migrants face several challenges in their daily lives in the host country due to limited knowledge about the language, culture, and social system of the host country. Their vulnerability increases in a time of crisis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, migrant communities were severely affected. Evidence on migrants’ access to COVID-19-related information and services is limited. We conducted a qualitative, descriptive study among migrants from Vietnam, Myanmar, and Nepal living in Japan to explore the barriers and promoting factors for their access to health-related information, health services, and welfare services during the first wave of COVID-19. We used a thematic analysis to identify key themes according to the study’s objectives. Further, these themes were assessed using an adapted version of the ecological model. The migrants mainly relied on the information available on social networking sites and were not aware of formal sources of information. Language was a major barrier, followed by cognitive bottlenecks and time constraints for migrants accessing health-related information and services. Social media, short-form information provided using their native language or plain Japanese and illustrations, and supportive people around could help them to access health-related information and services. The findings from this study demonstrate how migrants can represent a vulnerable group in a host country, even more so in a time of crisis.
Web-Based Personalized Intervention to Improve Quality of Life and Self-Efficacy of Long-Term Breast Cancer Survivors: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Soto-Ruiz Nelia , Escalada-Hernández Paula , Martín-Rodríguez Leticia San , Ferraz-Torres Marta , García-Vivar Cristina
Published: September 2022

Long-term breast cancer survivors (>5 years free of disease) may suffer late sequelae of cancer that impact on their quality of life. The use of telehealth for cancer care is recommended but little is known about the effectiveness of digital interventions for long-term cancer survivors. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based personalized intervention based on artificial intelligence instead of usual primary health care to improve the quality of life of long-term survivors of breast cancer and self-efficacy for the management of late sequelae. A randomized controlled trial will be conducted. The sample will consist of long-term breast cancer survivors recruited from primary health centers. Women will be randomly assigned to the intervention group to receive a web-based personalized intervention or to the control group to receive standard primary health care by nurses. Data on quality of life of cancer survivors and self-efficacy for the management of late sequelae of cancer will be collected and assessed at preintervention, and at 3, 6, and 9 months. It is expected that, at the end of the programme, the experimental group will have improved quality of life and improved self-efficacy for the management of late sequelae of cancer.
Moral Disengagement as a Self-Regulatory Cognitive Process of Transgressions: Psychometric Evidence of the Bandura Scale in Chilean Adolescents
Authors: Concha-Salgado Andrés , Ramírez Angélica , Pérez Beatriz , Pérez-Luco Ricardo , García-Cueto Eduardo
Published: September 2022

Moral disengagement is a process of cognitive restructuring that allows individuals to disassociate from their internal moral standards and behave unethically without feeling distressed. It has been described as a key predictor of maladaptive behaviors (e.g., delinquency, aggression, and cyberbullying) and as a mediator between individual variables and unethical outcomes (e.g., empathy and aggression). We aimed to provide evidence of validity based on the internal structure, reliability, and correlations with other constructs of the most used instrument to measure disengagement from moral self-sanctions: Bandura’s Mechanisms of Moral Disengagement Scale (MMDS). A non-probabilistic national sample of 528 Chilean adolescents from 14 to 18 years participated in the study. The results showed that the 10-item version of the MMDS had a unidimensional structure and good internal consistency. As expected, the MMDS-10 showed positive and medium correlations with abusive, violent antisocial, and delinquent behaviors and negative and medium associations with prosocial behavior and empathy. Additionally, moral disengagement fully mediated the relationship between empathy and violent antisocial behavior, supporting the hypothesis on moral disengagement as a self-regulatory cognitive process. The results confirm previous research, and the findings are discussed in terms of their implications for reducing the use of moral disengagement strategies in adolescence.
Adherence to Prescribing Indicators at a District Hospital in Ghana: Do We Match WHO Standards?
Authors: Amponsah Obed Kwabena Offe , Ayisi-Boateng Nana Kwame , Nagaraja Sharath Burugina , Nair Divya , Muradyan Karlos , Hedidor George Kwesi , Labi Appiah-Korang , Opare-Addo Mercy Naa Aduele , Sarkodie Emmanuel , Buabeng Kwame Ohene
Published: September 2022

(1) Background: Rational use of medicines (RUM) and their assessment are important to ensure optimal use of resources and patient care in hospitals. These assessments are essential to identifying practice gaps for quality improvement. (2) Methods: Assessment of adherence to WHO/International Network for Rational Use of Drugs core prescribing indicators among outpatients in 2021 was conducted at the University Hospital of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. We reviewed electronic medical records (EMR) of 110,280 patient encounters in the year which resulted in 336,087 medicines prescribed. (3) Results: The average number of medicines prescribed per encounter was three, with generics being prescribed in 76% of prescriptions. Injections were prescribed in 7% of encounters while 90% of medicines were from Ghana’s Essential Medicines List, 2017. (4) Conclusions: With the exception of patient encounters with injections, none of the prescribing indicators assessed in this study met WHO optimum levels, providing targets for quality improvement in RUM. Implementing prescribing guides and policies, regular audits and feedback as well as continuous professional development training may help to improve prescribing practices in the hospital.
Comparison of the Effectiveness of the Ultrasonic Method and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Combined with Intraoral Scanning and Prosthetic-Driven Implant Planning Method in Determining the Gingival Phenotype in the Healthy Periodontium
Authors: Bednarz-Tumidajewicz Magdalena , Furtak Aneta , Zakrzewska Aneta , Rąpała Małgorzata , Gerreth Karolina , Gedrange Tomasz , Bednarz Wojciech
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two diagnostic methods: ultrasonic gingival thickness measurement (UGTM) and cone-beam computed tomography, intraoral scanning by computer-aided design technology with prosthetic-driven implant planning software (CBCT/CAD/PDIP) in determining the gingival phenotype (GP). Thirty periodontally healthy patients were examined. The ultrasonic device Pirop G® with a frequency of 20 MHz and CBCT/CAD/PDIP were used to measure gingival thickness at upper canines and incisors in three points localized midbuccally, namely free gingival thickness (FGT), supracrestal (SGT) and crestal (CGT). Probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and width of keratinized tissue (WKT) were measured using periodontal probe. Intra-examiner and inter-examiner agreement and agreement between methods were evaluated using Bland-Altman analyses. Comparing both methods in the determination of SGT (bias = 0.17 mm, SD = 0.25 mm, p < 0.000) and CGT (bias = −0.45 mm, SD = 0.32 mm, p < 0.000) 95.0% and 95.6% agreement were found, respectively, and in the FGT range only 93.3% (bias = −0.45 mm, SD = 0.32 mm, p < 0.000). The presence of positive correlations between WKT and SGT was shown. A positive correlation between SGT and WKT confirms the purpose of measuring these parameters for the evaluation of the GP. Both the ultrasonic method and cone-beam computed tomography combined with intraoral scanning and prosthetic-driven implant planning method were useful in determining gingival phenotype, however, the ultrasonic method was more accurate for measuring GT.
Microbial Fuel Cell-Based Biosensor for Simultaneous Test of Sodium Acetate and Glucose in a Mixed Solution
Authors: Qiu Song , Wang Luyang , Zhang Yimei , Yu Yingjie
Published: September 2022

Most microbial fuel cell (MFC) sensors only focus on the detection of mixed solutions with respect to the chemical oxygen demand (COD) or toxicity; however, the concentrations of the individual analytes in a mixed solution have rarely been studied. Herein, we developed two types of MFC sensors, adapted with sodium acetate (MFC-A) and glucose (MFC-B) as organic substrates in the startup period. An evident difference in the sensor sensitivities (the slope value of the linear-regression curve) was observed between MFC-A and MFC-B. MFC-A exhibited a superior performance compared with MFC-B in the detection of sodium acetate (4868.9 vs. 2202 mV/(g/L), respectively) and glucose (3895.5 vs. 3192.9 mV/(g/L), respectively). To further compare these two MFC sensors, the electrochemical performances were evaluated, and MFC-A exhibited a higher output voltage and power density (593.76 mV and 129.81 ± 4.10 mW/m2, respectively) than MFC-B (484.08 mV and 116.21 ± 1.81 mW/m2, respectively). Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and microbial-community analysis were also performed, and the results showed a richer anode biomass of MFC-A in comparison with MFC-B. By utilizing the different sensitivities of the two MFC sensors towards sodium acetate and glucose, we proposed and verified a novel method for a simultaneous test on the individual concentrations of sodium acetate and glucose in a mixed solution. Linear equations of the two variables (concentrations of sodium acetate and glucose) were formulated. The linear equations were solved according to the output voltages of the two MFC sensors, and the solutions showed a satisfactory accuracy with regard to sodium acetate and glucose (relative error less than 20%).
Knowledge and Attitude Related to Hepatitis C among Medical Students in the Oral Direct Acting Antiviral Agents Era in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Thi Thanh Hang , Nguyen Thi Thuy Linh , So Samuel , Hoang Thi Hai Van , Nguyen Thi To Uyen , Ngo Thanh Binh , Nguyen Minh Phuong , Thai Quang Hung , Nguyen Ngoc Khoi , Ho Thi Quynh Anh Le , Tran Quang Phuc , Mai Trung Son , Toy Mehlika , Pham Minh Khue
Published: September 2022

Background: Medical students play important frontline roles in the prevention, early detection, and treatment of hepatitis C. This study investigated knowledge and attitudes toward hepatitis C among 5th- and 6th-year medical students and possible associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 2000 students from eight medical universities using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Results: The mean knowledge and attitude scores for hepatitis C were 20.1 ± 4.0 (out of 26) and 10.6 ± 2.9 (out of 20), respectively. Approximately, three-quarters (74.4%) of the participants had a good knowledge score, but only a small proportion (3.1%) obtained a good attitude score. Although the participants had fairly high knowledge about the causes, consequences, and transmission routes of hepatitis C, there were important gaps in their knowledge about hepatitis C screening and treatment. In multivariate analysis, female students, 5th-year students, and students from the central provinces had significantly higher knowledge and attitude scores. There was a low positive correlation between knowledge and attitude scores. Conclusion: This study points out the need to update the medical training curriculum to improve the knowledge and attitude of students about hepatitis C infection.
Trajectory of Teacher Well-Being Research between 1973 and 2021: Review Evidence from 49 Years in Asia
Authors: Yu Dongqing , Chen Junjun , Li Xinlin , Yan Zi
Published: September 2022

This review portrays a dynamic developmental trend in the teacher well-being literature in Asia between 1973 and 2021 using a descriptive quantitative analysis approach. A search of the Scopus database identified 168 journal articles across 46 countries and regions in Asia. This number of publications indicated a substantial change in the knowledge corpus, particularly during the pandemic, although overall production was still relatively low. Further results revealed diversity but an imbalance of research location, research type, research methods, data collection techniques, and research foci. A functionalist perspective may suggest that the knowledge base on teacher well-being is at a beginning stage. Recommendations for future research are proposed including cross-region collaborations, more developed research foci, using mixed-method approaches, high-quality qualitative research designs, innovative qualitative techniques, and diverse qualitative data collection techniques.
Experiences of Assistive Products and Home Care among Older Clients with and without Dementia in Sweden
Authors: Borg Johan , Alam Moudud , Boström Anne-Marie , Marmstål Hammar Lena
Published: September 2022

The purpose was to compare selection, use and outcomes of assistive products among older home care clients with and without dementia in Sweden, and to explore the relations between the use of assistive products and perceptions of home care, loneliness and safety. Self-reported data from 89,811 home care clients aged 65 years or more, of whom 8.9% had dementia, were analysed using regression models. Excluding spectacles, 88.2% of them used assistive products. Respondents without dementia were more likely to use at least one assistive product but less likely to use assistive products for remembering. Respondents with dementia participated less in the selection of assistive products, used less assistive products, and benefited less from them. Users of assistive products were more likely to be anxious and bothered by loneliness, to feel unsafe at home with home care, to experience that their opinions and wishes regarding assistance were disregarded by home care personnel, and to be treated worse by home care personnel. The findings raise concerns about whether the needs for assistive products among home care clients with dementia are adequately provided for. They also indicate a need to strengthen a person-centred approach to providing home care to users of assistive products.
Three-Way DNA Junction as an End Label for DNA in Atomic Force Microscopy Studies
Authors: Sun Zhiqiang , Stormberg Tommy , Filliaux Shaun , Lyubchenko Yuri L.
Published: September 2022

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is widely used for topographic imaging of DNA and protein-DNA complexes in ambient conditions with nanometer resolution. In AFM studies of protein-DNA complexes, identifying the protein’s location on the DNA substrate is one of the major goals. Such studies require distinguishing between the DNA ends, which can be accomplished by end-specific labeling of the DNA substrate. We selected as labels three-way DNA junctions (3WJ) assembled from synthetic DNA oligonucleotides with two arms of 39–40 bp each. The third arm has a three-nucleotide overhang, GCT, which is paired with the sticky end of the DNA substrate generated by the SapI enzyme. Ligation of the 3WJ results in the formation of a Y-type structure at the end of the linear DNA mole cule, which is routinely identified in the AFM images. The yield of labeling is 69%. The relative orientation of arms in the Y-end varies, such dynamics were directly visualized with time-lapse AFM studies using high-speed AFM (HS-AFM). This labeling approach was applied to the characterization of the nucleosome arrays assembled on different DNA templates. HS-AFM experiments revealed a high dynamic of nucleosomes resulting in a spontaneous unraveling followed by disassembly of nucleosomes.
Psychosocial Issues Related to Newborn Screening: A Systematic Review and Synthesis
Authors: Tluczek Audrey , Ersig Anne L. , Lee Shinhyo
Published: September 2022

Genomic advances have contributed to a proliferation of newborn screening (NBS) programs. Psychosocial consequences of NBS have been identified as risks to these public health initiatives. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review synthesizes findings from 92 evidence-based, peer-reviewed research reports published from 2000 through 2020 regarding psychosocial issues associated with NBS. Results describe parents’ knowledge of and attitudes towards NBS, reactions to and understanding of positive NBS results, experiences of communication with health providers, decisions about carrier testing, and future pregnancies. Findings also explain the impact of positive NBS results on parent–child relationships, child development, informing children about carrier status, family burden, quality of life, and disparities. In conclusion, psychosocial consequences of receiving unexpected neonatal screening results and unsolicited genetic information remain significant risks to expansion of NBS. Findings suggest that risks may be mitigated by improved parent NBS education, effective communication, individualized genetic counseling, and anticipatory developmental guidance. Clinicians need to take extra measures to ensure equitable service delivery to marginalized subpopulations. Future investigations should be more inclusive of culturally and socioeconomically diverse families and conducted in low-resource countries. Providing these countries with adequate resources to develop NBS programs is an essential step towards achieving international health equity.
Inheritance of Resistance to Cry1A.105 in Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Yu Wenbo , Head Graham P. , Huang Fangneng
Published: September 2022

Cry1A.105 is a bioengineered Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticidal protein consisting of three domains derived from Cry1Ac, Cry1Ab, and Cry1F. It is one of the two pyramided Bt toxins expressed in the MON 89034 event, a commonly planted Bt maize trait in the Americas. Recent studies have documented that field resistance of the corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), to the Cry1A.105 toxin in maize plants has become widespread in the United States. To investigate the inheritance of resistance to Cry1A.105 in H. zea, two independent tests, each with various genetic crosses among susceptible and Cry1A.105-resistant populations, were performed. The responses of these susceptible, resistant, F1, F2, and backcrossed insect populations to Cry1A.105 were assayed using a diet overlay method. The bioassays showed that the resistance to Cry1A.105 in H. zea was inherited as a single, autosomal, nonrecessive gene. The nonrecessive nature of the resistance could be an important factor contributing to the widespread resistance of maize hybrids containing Cry1A.105 in the United States. The results indicate that resistance management strategies for Bt crops need to be refined to ensure that they are effective in delaying resistance evolution for nonrecessive resistance (nonhigh dose).
Not by the Book: Observations of Delayed Oviposition and Re-Colonization of Human Remains by Blow Flies
Authors: Owings Charity G. , McKee-Zech Hayden S. , Schwing Sarah T. , Bugajski Kristi N. , Davis Mary C. , Steadman Dawnie W.
Published: September 2022

Postmortem interval estimations can be complicated by the inter-individual variation present in human decomposition. Forensic entomologists may especially face challenges interpreting arthropod evidence in scenarios that are not “by the book”, or that vary in unexpected ways. Therefore, it is important to report instances where blow fly colonization does not align with expected soft tissue decomposition as blow fly larvae are often used to produce a time of colonization (TOC) estimation to infer a minimum PMI. We followed the decomposition and blow fly activity of three human donors at the Anthropology Research Facility (University of Tennessee). Delayed oviposition occurred on one donor 115 d post-placement, whereas two donors experienced blow fly re-colonization after cessation of the consumption phase, one 22 d and one more than 200 d after blow fly larvae were last observed. A null hypothesis model tested whether the entomological TOC and anthropological total body score (TBS) estimations encompassed the time of placement (TOP) for each donor. While the null hypothesis was rejected for all TOC estimations, it could not be rejected for the TBS estimations. We discuss how the non-linear nature of human decomposition can pose challenges to interpreting blow fly evidence and suggest that forensic entomology practitioners should recognize these limitations in both research endeavors and applied casework.
Sociodemographic Associations of Dementia Literacy in Older Australians
Authors: Siette Joyce , Dodds Laura
Published: September 2022

Recent levels of dementia literacy in older Australian adults remains relatively unexplored. Our purpose was to identify whether dementia literacy has changed in older Australians, sociodemographic characteristics associated with better literacy, and barriers to dementia risk reduction. A 32-item adapted British Social Attitudes Survey was administered to 834 community-dwelling older adults (mean age 73.3, SD = 6.0, range 65–94) on dementia awareness and knowledge of dementia risk and protective factors. Descriptive analyses, logistic, and multiple linear regressions were used to examine sociodemographic factors on dementia awareness and literacy. Most respondents (61%) were aware of the relationship between different lifestyle factors and dementia risk, with the majority reporting cognitive (85.0%) and physical inactivity (83.4%) as key risk factors. Few were able to identify less well-known factors (e.g., chronic kidney disease; 15.8%). Individuals with higher educational attainment were more likely to agree that dementia is modifiable (OR 1.228, 95% CI 1.02–1.47). Younger age (β = −0.089, 95% CI −0.736–−0.065, p = 0.019) was significantly associated with a higher number of correctly-identified dementia risk factors. Lack of knowledge was the key barrier to hindering dementia risk reduction. A tailored, evidence-informed, population-based lifespan approach targeting dementia literacy may help alleviate commonly reported barriers and support dementia risk reduction.
In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Fucoidans from Five Species of Brown Seaweeds
Authors: Obluchinskaya Ekaterina D. , Pozharitskaya Olga N. , Shikov Alexander N.
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to compare the anti-inflammatory effects of fucoidans from brown seaweeds (Saccharina japonica (SJ), Fucus vesiculosus (FV), Fucus distichus (FD), Fucus serratus (FS), and Ascophyllum nodosum (AN)), and determine the relationship between composition and biological activity. The anti-inflammatory activity was tested in vitro. It is believed that inflammation could be triggered by free radicals. Fucoidans from F. vesiculosus (FV1 and FV3) showed the strongest 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity with an IC50 = 0.05 mg/mL. In the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) test, the activity was concentration-dependent. Notable, the TAC of fucoidans except samples of FV2 and SJ (which have a lower phenolic content) was higher than that of phloroglucinol. The TAC of fucoidans strongly and positively correlated with polyphenol content. A weak correlation was associated with xylose content. The synergistic effect for fucoidans was calculated for the first time using carbohydrates and polyphenols as model mixtures. The synergy in the DPPH test was found only for FV1 and FV3 (mixture effect ME = 2.68 and 2.04, respectively). The ME strongly positively correlated with polyphenols. The relationship of ME with fucose content was positive but moderate. It was first established that the anti-inflammatory effects of fucoidan could be mediated via the inhibition of protein denaturation. The inhibition was concentration-dependent and strongly correlated with the fucose content and moderate with sulfate content. The purified fucoidan FV2 showed the most promising activity (IC50 = 0.20 mg/mL vs. IC50 = 0.37 mg/mL for diclofenac sodium). Similar relations were also observed in the membrane protection model. Fucoidans were able to stabilize the cell membrane integrity of human red blood corpuscles (HRBC). The results of our study support the rationality of fucoidan use as a promising agent for the treatment of inflammatory-related diseases via mechanisms of radical scavenging, antioxidant activity, inhibition of protein denaturation, and HRBC membrane stabilization.
Nanoformulation of Seaweed Eisenia bicyclis in Albumin Nanoparticles Targeting Cardiovascular Diseases: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Pinto Sofia , Gaspar Maria Manuela , Ascensão Lia , Faísca Pedro , Reis Catarina Pinto , Pacheco Rita
Published: September 2022

Natural products, especially those derived from seaweeds, are starting to be seen as effective against various diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This study aimed to design a novel oral formulation of bovine albumin serum nanoparticles (BSA NPs) loaded with an extract of Eisenia bicyclis and to validate its beneficial health effects, particularly targeting hypercholesterolemia and CVD prevention. Small and well-defined BSA NPs loaded with Eisenia bicyclis extract were successfully prepared exhibiting high encapsulation efficiency. Antioxidant activity and cholesterol biosynthesis enzyme 3-hydroxy-3 methylutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) inhibition, as well as reduction of cholesterol permeation in intestinal lining model cells, were assessed for the extract both in free and nanoformulated forms. The nanoformulation was more efficient than the free extract, particularly in terms of HMGR inhibition and cholesterol permeation reduction. In vitro cytotoxicity and in vivo assays in Wistar rats were performed to evaluate its safety and overall effects on metabolism. The results demonstrated that the Eisenia bicyclis extract and BSA NPs were not cytotoxic against human intestinal Caco-2 and liver HepG2 cells and were also safe after oral administration in the rat model. In addition, an innovative approach was adopted to compare the metabolomic profile of the serum from the animals involved in the in vivo assay, which showed the extract and nanoformulation’s impact on CVD-associated key metabolites. Altogether, these preliminary results revealed that the seaweed extract and the nanoformulation may constitute an alternative natural dosage form which is safe and simple to produce, capable of reducing cholesterol levels, and consequently helpful in preventing hypercholesterolemia, the main risk factor of CVDs.
Effects of the RNA-Polymerase Inhibitors Remdesivir and Favipiravir on the Structure of Lipid Bilayers—An MD Study
Authors: Bringas Mauro , Luck Meike , Müller Peter , Scheidt Holger A. , Di Lella Santiago
Published: September 2022

The structure and dynamics of membranes are crucial to ensure the proper functioning of cells. There are some compounds used in therapeutics that show nonspecific interactions with membranes in addition to their specific molecular target. Among them, two compounds recently used in therapeutics against COVID-19, remdesivir and favipiravir, were subjected to molecular dynamics simulation assays. In these, we demonstrated that the compounds can spontaneously bind to model lipid membranes in the presence or absence of cholesterol. These findings correlate with the corresponding experimental results recently reported by our group. In conclusion, insertion of the compounds into the membrane is observed, with a mean position close to the phospholipid head groups.
Dietary Lactoferrin Supplementation Improves Growth Performance and Intestinal Health of Juvenile Orange-Spotted Groupers (Epinephelus coioides)
Authors: Song Tao , Qin Yingmei , Ke Liner , Wang Xuexi , Wang Kun , Sun Yunzhang , Ye Jidan
Published: September 2022

A 56-day feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary lactoferrin (LF) supplementation on the growth performance and intestinal health of juvenile orange-spotted groupers fed high-soybean-meal (SBM) diets. The control diet (FM) and high-soybean-meal diet (SBM60) were prepared to contain 480 g/kg protein and 110 g/kg fat. Three inclusion levels of 2, 6, and 10 g/kg LF were added into the SBM60 to prepare three diets (recorded as LF2, LF6, and LF10, respectively). The results showed that the supplementation of LF in SBM60 increased the growth rate in a dose-dependent manner. However, the feed utilization, hepatosomatic index, whole-body proximate composition, and the abundance and diversity of intestinal microbiota did not vary across the dietary treatments (p > 0.05). After the dietary intervention with LF, the contents of the intestinal malondialdehyde, endotoxin, and d-lactic acid, as well as the plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol were lower, and the intestinal activities of the glutathione peroxidase, lipase, trypsin, and protease were higher in the LF2-LF10 groups than that in the SBM60 group (p < 0.05). The supplementation of LF in SBM60 increased the muscle layer thickness of the middle and distal intestine and the mucosal fold length of the middle intestine vs. the SBM60 diet (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the supplementation of LF in SBM60 resulted in an up-regulation of the mRNA levels for the IL-10 and TGF-β1 genes and a down-regulation of the mRNA levels of the IL-1β, IL-12, IL-8, and TNF-α genes vs. the SBM60 diet (p < 0.05). The above results showed that a dietary LF intervention improves the growth and alleviates soybean meal-induced enteritis in juvenile orange-spotted groupers. The dietary appropriate level of LF was at 5.8 g/kg, through the regression analysis of the percent weight gain against the dietary LF inclusion levels.