bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Esophageal Cancer Mortality with Municipal Socioeconomic Deprivation Level in Japan, 2013–2017: An Ecological Study Using Nationwide Data
Authors: Okui Tasuku , Hirata Akie , Nakashima Naoki
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to show geographical differences in esophageal cancer mortality in Japan and reveal an association of esophageal cancer mortality with municipal socioeconomic deprivation level. Esophageal cancer mortality data in the Vital Statistics from 2013 to 2017 for each municipality and corresponding population data were analyzed. The deprivation level was derived from the municipal socioeconomic variables by principal component analysis. Municipalities were classified into five quintiles based on the deprivation level, and an association between the level and esophageal cancer mortality was evaluated using a Bayesian spatial model. As a result of regression analysis, the relative risk of esophageal cancer mortality tended to become larger as the deprivation level increased irrespective of sex, and the relative risk of esophageal cancer mortality was significantly higher in quintile 5 (most deprived) than quintile 1 (least deprived) among men and women. These results suggest that the deprivation level increases the risk of esophageal cancer mortality in Japan.
The Associations of Meteorological and Environmental Factors with Memory Function of the Older Age in Urban Areas
Authors: Qiu Yuehong , Deng Zeming , Jiang Chujuan , Wei Kaigong , Zhu Lijun , Zhang Jieting , Jiao Can
Published: May 2022

Individual, meteorological, and environmental factors are associated with cognitive function in older age. However, little is known about how meteorological and environmental factors interact with individual factors in affecting cognitive function in older adults. In the current study, we used mixed effects models to assess the association of individual, meteorological, and environmental factors with cognitive function among older adults in urban areas. Data from 2623 adults aged 60 to 91 years from 25 provinces (or autonomous regions/municipalities) from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) were used. We used the memory test in CFPS to measure memory function, while meteorological data from the daily climate data set of China’s surface international exchange stations, and the traffic and greening data compiled by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) of China, were used to assess meteorological and environmental factors. The ICC of the empty model indicated that 7.7% of the variation in memory test scores for the older adults was caused by provincial characteristics. Results showed that the temperature and relative humidity of provinces moderated the effect of gender on the memory function for the older urban adults. Specifically, in the high temperature areas, memory scores for females were higher than those of males, and in the middle humidity areas, memory scores were also higher for the females than those of males. This study explained how meteorological and environmental factors played roles in influencing demographic factors on memory function among older adults. Further research is needed to better define the role and potential mechanism of this moderation.
Comparative Study of Algal Responses and Adaptation Capability to Ultraviolet Radiation with Different Nutrient Regimes
Authors: Ren Lingxiao , Huang Jing , Ding Keqiang , Wang Yi , Yang Yangyang , Zhang Lijuan , Wu Haoyu
Published: May 2022

Frequent outbreaks of harmful algal blooms (HABs) represent one of the most serious outcomes of eutrophication, and light radiation plays a critical role in the succession of species. Therefore, a better understanding of the impact of light radiation is essential for mitigating HABs. In this study, Chlorella pyrenoidosa and non-toxic and toxic Microcystis aeruginosa were mono-cultured and co-cultured to explore algal responses under different nutrient regimes. Comparisons were made according to photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), UV-B radiation exerted oxidative stresses, and negative effects on the photosynthesis and growth of three species under normal growth conditions, and algal adaptive responses included extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production, the regulation of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, photosynthetic pigments synthesis, etc. Three species had strain-specific responses to UV-B radiation and toxic M. aeruginosa was more tolerant and showed a higher adaptation capability to UV-B in the mono-cultures, including the lower sensitivity and better self-repair efficiency. In addition to stable μmax in PAR ad UV-B treatments, higher EPS production and enhanced production of photosynthetic pigments under UV-B radiation, toxic M. aeruginosa showed a better recovery of its photosynthetic efficiency. Nutrient enrichment alleviated the negative effects of UV-B radiation on three species, and the growth of toxic M. aeruginosa was comparable between PAR and UV-B treatment. In the co-cultures with nutrient enrichment, M. aeruginosa gradually outcompeted C. pyrenoidosa in the PAR treatment and UV-B treatment enhanced the growth advantages of M. aeruginosa, when toxic M. aeruginosa showed a greater competitiveness. Overall, our study indicated the adaptation of typical algal species to ambient UV-B radiation and the stronger competitive ability of toxic M. aeruginosa in the UV-radiated waters with severer eutrophication.
Investigating Racial Differences in Allostatic Load by Educational Attainment among Non-Hispanic Black and White Men
Authors: Gilmore Danielle R. , Carreño Tzitzi Morán , Zare Hossein , Moore Justin X. , Rogers Charles R. , Brooks Ellen , Petersen Ethan , Kennedy Carson , Thorpe Roland J.
Published: May 2022

Education continues to be a key factor contributing to increased access to critical life-improving opportunities and has been found to be protective against Allostatic Load (AL). The purpose of this study was to assess AL among Non-Hispanic (NH) White and NH Black men with the same level of education. We used 1999–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) data with an analytical sample of 6472 men (1842 NH Black and 4630 NH White), and nine biomarkers to measure AL, controlling for various demographic and health-related factors. NH Black men had a higher AL score than NH White men (39.1%, 842 vs. 37.7%, 1,975). Racial disparities in AL between NH Black and NH White men who have a college degree or above (PR: 1.49, CI: [1.24–1.80]) were observed. Models posited similar AL differences at every other level of education, although these were not statistically significant. The findings reveal that socioeconomic returns to education and the societal protective mechanisms associated with education vary greatly between White and Black men.
Global Warming and Its Implications on Nature Tourism at Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Authors: Sibitane Zinzi E. , Dube Kaitano , Lekaota Limpho
Published: May 2022

The past decade recorded the highest number of high impact extreme weather events such as flooding, rainfall events, fires, droughts, and heatwaves amongst others. One of the key features and drivers of extreme weather events has been global warming, with record temperatures recorded globally. The World Meteorological Organization indicated that the 2010–2020 decade was one of the warmest on record. Continued global warming triggers a chain of positive feedback with far-reaching adverse implications on the environment and socio-economic activities. The tourism industry fears that increased global warming would result in severe challenges for the sector. The challenges include species extinction, disruption of tourism aviation, and several tourism activities. Given the extent of climate variability and change, this study examines the impacts of rising temperatures on tourism operations at Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa. The study adopts a mixed-method approach that uses secondary, archival, and primary data collected through interviews and field observations to investigate the impacts. Data analysis was done using XLSTAT and Mann–Kendall Trend Analysis to analyse climate trends, while content and thematic analyses were used to analyse primary data findings. The study found that increasing temperature is challenging for tourists and tourism employees as it affects productivity, sleeping patterns, tourism operations, and infrastructure. High temperatures are a considerable threat to water availability and animal sightings, adversely affecting the game drive experience. Increased heatwaves resulted in bird mortality and hatching mortality for turtles; this is a significant conservation challenge. The study recommends that heat stress be treated as a health and safety issue to protect tourists and employees.
The Use of Simple Language in Informal Forest Education as a Key to the Correct Interpretation of Sustainable Forest Management—The Experience of Poland
Authors: Korcz Natalia , Janeczko Emilia , Kobyłka Agata
Published: May 2022

In view of the increasing conflict between society and forest management and a significant increase in the social functions of the forest, informal forest education is becoming increasingly important. In Poland, it is carried out mainly based on the field educational infrastructure, which consists, among other things, of forest educational paths equipped with educational boards. The paper presents the results of research on the assessment of the availability of texts presented on educational boards. The study was conducted on the basis of photographs of educational boards located on six educational paths in the forests of the Regional Directorate of State Forests in Lublin. Using the Google Lans application, the main text from each board was read and then analyzed in the Promovolt software program to determine the level of text accessibility using the Fog Index. The results were then compared with the opinion of respondents using an online survey, which indicated that most of the boards are written in language that is either simple, understandable to middle/high school students, or quite difficult but understandable to first-degree students. On the other hand, the respondents generally indicated the level of accessibility of the text to be easier because, in their opinion, it is enough to have a primary education to understand the content of the boards. This observation leads to the conclusion that in order for education to be more effective, simple language should be used, which can be understood by the less educated members of the population.
The Negative Association between Breastfeeding Duration and Infant Febrile Seizure: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Chen Hsi-Yu , Chang Yu-Hsun , Ding Dah-Ching
Published: May 2022

Two to five percent of infants and children experience febrile seizures (FS). Breastfeeding is beneficial to the health of mothers and children. Nevertheless, the benefits of breastfeeding in reducing FS remain unclear; thus, the present study aimed to evaluate this association. The case group was selected from 2010 to 2019, and the selected population was children younger than 5 years (i.e., children born from 2005–2019). The control group was selected from newborn infants at our hospital born between 2005 and 2019. Finally, 55 children with FS and 110 children in the control group were recruited. The results show longer breastfeeding duration is associated with an increased risk of FS (adjusted odds ratio: 1.06, 95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.11, p = 0.028). When comparing cases of FS with the control group, the percentage of inclusive breastfeeding over 12 months (32.7% vs. 9.1%, p = 0.017) and longer duration of exclusive breastfeeding were higher (10.86 ± 11.82 vs. 5.40 ± 7.17 months, p < 0.001). However, the comparison of the prevalence of FS between the different breastfeeding duration groups did not reach statistical significance. In conclusion, our study showed that a longer breastfeeding duration was associated with a higher risk of FS. Future large-scale studies evaluating the association between breastfeeding duration and febrile seizures are needed.
Predicting Hazardous Alcohol Drinking Behaviors in Family Members of Hazardous Alcohol-Drinker Patients
Authors: Chen Ching-Yen , Lin Chen-Chun , Kao Jung-Ta , Yeh Wen-Ling , Lin Chiao-Yun , Tsai Yun-Fang
Published: May 2022

Family members of hazardous or harmful alcohol drinkers suffer many consequences of their relative’s alcohol-drinking behaviors and risk developing their own hazardous alcohol drinking behaviors. Studies of alcohol-related healthcare problems have mainly focused on patients, with few studies on their family members. This cross-sectional study explored factors predicting hazardous alcohol drinking behaviors in family members of hazardous alcohol-drinker patients. Participants were recruited from four randomly chosen hospitals in Taiwan. Data were collected using self-report questionnaires on family members’ alcohol use, perceived stress, coping mechanisms, social support, health, quality of life, protective factors against hazardous alcohol drinking, facilitative factors for hazardous alcohol drinking, and demographics. The 318 family members who participated in this study were divided by their Chinese-version Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test scores into two groups: hazardous alcohol drinkers (score ≥ 8) and non-hazardous alcohol drinkers (score < 8). Significant factors predicting hazardous alcohol drinking behaviors were found by logistic regression to be the frequency of using general coping mechanisms (OR = 1.29, p < 0.01), the frequency of using strategies to cope with patients’ drinking-related behaviors (OR = 0.89, p < 0.01), factors protecting against hazardous alcohol drinking (OR = 0.76, p < 0.01) and factors facilitating hazardous alcohol drinking (OR = 1.52, p < 0.01). Interventions should be designed for family members of hazardous alcohol drinkers to address these four significant predictors.
Unmet Healthcare Needs and Their Determining Factors among Unwell Migrants: A Comparative Study in Shanghai
Authors: Pan Lin , Wang Cong , Cao Xiaolin , Zhu Huanhuan , Luo Li
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyze the health status and unmet healthcare needs, and the impact of related factors, of unwell migrants in Shanghai. A total of 10,938 respondents, including 934 migrants and 10,004 non-migrants, were interviewed in Shanghai’s Sixth Health Service Survey. Descriptive statistics were utilized to present the prevalence of health status and unmet healthcare needs. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the relationships between predisposing factors, enabling factors, need factors, and health-related behavior and unmet healthcare needs in the Anderson health service utilization model. This study indicated the percentages of migrants having a fair or poor self-evaluated health status (21.09%) and suffering from chronic diseases (72.91%) were lower than those of non-migrants (28.34% and 88.64%, respectively). Migrants had higher percentages of unmet hospitalization needs (88.87%), unmet outpatient care needs (44.43%), and self-medication (23.98%) than those of non-migrants (86.24%, 37.95%, 17.97%, respectively). Migrants enrolled in Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance were more likely to utilize hospitalization services (OR = 1.457) than those enrolled in other health insurances or uninsured. Need factors had impacts on unwell migrants’ unmet healthcare needs. Other factors, including age and health behavior, were also found to significantly affect unwell migrants’ unmet health service needs. Specific gaps continue to exist between unwell migrants and non-migrants regarding the accessibility of local health services. Flexible policies, such as enhancing the health awareness of migrants and eliminating obstacles for migrants to access medical services, should be implemented to provide convenient and affordable healthcare services to unwell migrants.
Public Interest, Risk, Trust, and Personal Protective Equipment Purchase and Usage: Face Masks Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Feng Jie , Li Jian , Hu Wuyang , Li Gucheng
Published: May 2022

This analysis considers public interest in COVID-19-related issues as well as individuals’ risk perception and trust in society in their demand for face masks during the pandemic. Through a national survey, we examine demand during both the outbreak and the recovery stage of the pandemic and differentiate demand into purchasing and usage. The examination allows us to observe the evolvement of demand over time and stockpiling. We find that public interest and risk perception had a more significant association with mask demand during the outbreak stage, and trust was more connected with mask demand during the recovery stage. While stocking was evident in both stages, consumers were much less price sensitive in the outbreak stage. Overall, the relationship between most factors and mask demand was smaller in the recovery stage. Our research is useful for policymakers to assess the creation and termination of temporary legislation to help manage the value chain of personal protective equipment during a major public health crisis.
A Load-Carrier Perspective Method for Evaluating Land Resources Carrying Capacity
Authors: Luo Wenzhu , Shen Liyin , Zhang Lingyu , Liao Xia , Meng Conghui , Jin Chi
Published: May 2022

If land resources are forced to withstand greater populations than they are able to withstand, irreversible damage to the land resources system will happen in a specific region. This challenge highlights the urgency of appropriately evaluating the land resources carrying capacity (LRCC). A proper level of the capacity can ensure that land resources demands imposed by human activities are at a reasonable level. There is a need for a proper evaluation method for assessing LRCC. This study presents a new evaluation method from a load-carrier perspective for assessing LRCC by examining the relationships between the pressure caused by human activities and the supply capacity of land resources. In developing this method, a land resources system is determined by two primary components, namely carrier and load. The compositions of carrier and load are determined by applying the theory of multifunctional land use. A case demonstration is conducted to show the application of the method. The main findings can be drawn from this study as follows. Firstly, a “load-carrier” perspective method is requested for evaluating the regional LRCC, and it is effective in obtaining the value of LRCC in the demonstration case. Secondly, the composition of land resources carriers and loads embodied in the load-carrier perspective method is determined by using the theory of multifunctional land use. Thirdly, the case results suggest that seven regions are overloaded in LRCC and the other two regions are approaching the limitation of LRCC among nine county-level administration regions in Chongqing. This study contributes to the development of literature in the field of LRCC. The application of the “load-carrier” perspective method can help local governments in the case study regions make policies to ensure that land resources demands imposed by human activities are under control at a reasonable level.
Altered Visceral Adipose Tissue Predictors and Women’s Health: A Unicenter Study
Authors: Moreira Vanessa Carvalho , de Souza Silva Calliandra Maria , da Silva Izabel Cristina Rodrigues
Published: May 2022

(1) Background: The excess visceral adipose tissue (VAT) accumulation in women may reflect an early or advanced state of a metabolic disorder and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease than other types of obesity. This study aimed to determine the predictor variables (demographic information, anthropometric data, and blood biomarkers) for changes in VAT in adult women. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with women aged 18–59 years attending nutritional consultation at the Centro Universitário de Brasília (CEUB)’s nutrition school clinic, Brazil. All participants’ medical records were reviewed throughout the study and data of interest were collected. Various anthropometric measurements and biochemical exams were performed and analyzed in a univariate logistic regression model to identify the possible risk factors predictors for the presence of altered VAT. (3) Results: Our logistic regression model considered body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 kg/m2, lipid accumulation product (LAP), and waist–hip ratio (WHR) as predictors of altered VAT. (4) Conclusion: LAP has a robust predictive capacity for changes in visceral fat in adult women, followed by WHR and BMI, making these variables effective in assessing the risk for changes in visceral fat and their inclusion essential in the individual and collective clinical practice.
How Much Burnout and Coping Influence Quality of Life among Young Oncology Providers in Romania during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lungulescu Cristian-Virgil , Turcu-Stiolica Adina , Lungulescu Cristina , Dumitrescu Elena-Adriana , Turcu-Stiolica Razvan-Aurelian , Croitoru Vlad-Mihai , Cazacu Irina-Mihaela , Gheorghe Adelina-Silvana , Stanculeanu Dana-Lucia , Sur Daniel
Published: May 2022

This study aims to investigate the correlations between burnout, coping strategies, and quality of life among young oncology healthcare workers in Romania during the COVID-19 pandemic. We collected the data using an online questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic questions, the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the COPE questionnaire, and the 15D instrument. A total of 122 healthcare providers responded to our survey. We evaluated the differences in the scores among the three groups of healthcare workers in oncology under 40 years old: medical oncologists (n = 87), radiation oncologists (n = 11), and oncology nurses (n = 24). Finally, we conducted a correlation analysis between the dimensions of burnout, coping, and quality of life. Overall, the medical oncologists exhibited much higher burnout levels than nurses in the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, having statistically significant higher levels of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and lack of personal achievement. Some factors were inversely associated with burnout: active approach, planning, positive interpretation and growth, and acceptance. Our findings illustrated a very good level of health-related quality of life (average = 0.93, SD = 0.06), and no statistically significant differences were found in the quality of life between the three groups. This study was the first to identify the profile of young oncology providers in Romania. Our findings may be relevant in creating preventive strategies for burnout and increasing the quality of life in Romanian young oncology providers in future crises.
The Role of Motor Coordination, ADHD-Related Characteristics and Temperament among Mothers and Infants in Exclusive Breastfeeding: A Cohort Prospective Study
Authors: Freund-Azaria Adi , Bar-Shalita Tami , Regev Rivka , Bart Orit
Published: May 2022

Although exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of life, breastfeeding rates are low. Motor skills and ADHD-related characteristics have not yet been examined as breastfeeding barriers. The aim of this study was to explore whether mothers’ and infants’ motor skills, mothers’ ADHD-related characteristics and infants’ temperament are associated with exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months after birth. Participants were 164 mothers and their infants recruited 2 days after birth. Mothers completed a demographic and delivery information questionnaire, the Infant Feeding Intentions Scale and the Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale. At 6 months, mothers completed the Adult DCD (developmental coordination disorder)/Dyspraxia Checklist, the Adult ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) Self-Report Scale Symptom Checklist-v1.1, and the Infant Characteristics Questionnaire, and provided information about their breastfeeding status. They were then divided into two groups accordingly: EBF (exclusive breastfeeding) and NEBF (non-exclusive breastfeeding). Infants were observed using the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants and the Alberta Infant Motor Scale. At 6 months, NEBF mothers reported higher prevalence of DCD (10.2% vs. 1.9%, χ2 = 5.561, p = 0.018) and ADHD (20.3% vs. 8.6%, χ2 = 4.680, p = 0.030) compared to EBF mothers. EBF infants demonstrated better motor coordination (t = 2.47, p = 0.016, d = 0.511), but no temperament differences compared to NEBF infants. Maternal DCD, ADHD and poor infant motor coordination are associated with non-exclusive breastfeeding and may become exclusive breastfeeding barriers. These findings may assist in identifying women at risk of not exclusively breastfeeding and encourage tailoring interventions for achieving higher exclusive breastfeeding rates.
Association between Low-Dose Computed Tomography Results and 1-Year Smoking Cessation in a Residential Smoking Cessation Program
Authors: Shin Da-Som , Noh Hye-Mi , Song Hong Ji , Park Kyung Hee , Seo Young-Gyun , Paek Yu-Jin
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health threat. Smoking and smoking-related lung diseases are risk factors for severe COVID-19 infection. This study investigated whether low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan results affected the success of 1-year smoking cessation. The Gyeonggi Southern Smoking Support Center performed the residential smoking cessation program from January to December 2018. During the program, LDCT was performed on 292 participants; 6 months later, follow-up via telephone or visit was conducted. Among the 179 participants who succeeded in smoking cessation for 6 months, telephone follow-up was conducted to determine whether there was a 12-month continuous smoking cessation. In order to evaluate the association between LDCT results and 12-month continuous abstinence rate (CAR), logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). The CARs at 6 and 12 months were 61.3% and 31.5%, respectively. Indeterminate or suspicious malignant lung nodules were associated with a higher 12-month CAR (OR, 3.02; 95% CI, 1.15–7.98), whereas psychiatric history was associated with a lower 12-month CAR (OR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.03–0.15). These results suggest that abnormal lung screening results may encourage smokers to quit smoking.
Sustainability via Active Garden Education: The Sustainability Action Plan Model and Process
Authors: Lee Rebecca E. , Szeszulski Jacob , Lorenzo Elizabeth , Arriola Anel , Bruening Meg , Estabrooks Paul A. , Hill Jennie L. , O’Connor Teresia M. , Shaibi Gabriel Q. , Soltero Erica G. , Todd Michael
Published: May 2022

Sustainability of intervention programming is challenging to achieve under real world conditions, since few models exist and many studies do not plan far beyond the funding period. Programming content in early care and education centers (ECECs) is often driven by guidelines. However, implementation is very sensitive to contextual factors, such as the setting and implementer (teacher) characteristics. This paper presents the model, definitions, and methodology used for the sustainability action plan capitalizing on a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach, developed for a multi-site, multi-level garden-based childhood obesity prevention study, Sustainability via Active Garden Education (SAGE). The Ecologic Model of Obesity is applied to develop a sustainability action plan (SAP) and accompanying measures to link early care and education (ECE) environment, the community, policies, and classroom practices to an early childhood obesity prevention program. The SAGE SAP provides an example of how to iteratively evaluate and refine sustainability processes for an obesity prevention intervention utilizing CBPR approaches and will be applied to assess the sustainability of SAGE in a cluster randomized controlled trial. This SAP model can also help inform intervention delivery and scalability within ECECs.
Perceptions of Barriers: An Examination of Public Health Practice in Kansas
Authors: Eppler Megan , Brock Kayla , Brunkow Cheyenne , Mulcahy Ellyn R.
Published: May 2022

Public health and healthcare professionals perform a wide variety of services for their communities, and serve in important and often overlapping roles, particularly in rural communities. In this qualitative study, public health practitioners in Kansas were asked about their perceptions of barriers to public health and vulnerable people in their communities. Participants from across Kansas were interviewed via teleconferencing, telephone, or email, and emergent themes were identified using qualitative thematic analysis. While asked about public health specifically, during interviews, many participants discussed barriers to healthcare as well. The top barriers to effective public health practice identified in this study were funding, education, accessibility, and affordability. Others included politics, transportation, and the need to expand Medicare and Medicaid. The populations believed most vulnerable in their communities were community members living in poverty, elderly people, and other marginalized populations. Our findings suggest public health practitioners in Kansas observe a lack of understanding and knowledge in their communities about public health, along with the recognition that a lack of accessibility and affordability to health services are barriers to effective public health practice.
Feasibility Trial of Yoga Programme for Type 2 Diabetes Prevention (YOGA-DP) among High-Risk People in India: A Qualitative Study to Explore Participants’ Trial- and Intervention-Related Barriers and Facilitators
Authors: Mishra Pallavi , Harris Tess , Greenfield Sheila Margaret , Hamer Mark , Lewis Sarah Anne , Singh Kavita , Nair Rukamani , Mukherjee Somnath , Manjunath Nandi Krishnamurthy , Tandon Nikhil , Kinra Sanjay , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Chattopadhyay Kaushik
Published: May 2022

Yoga-based interventions can be effective in preventing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We developed a Yoga programme for T2DM prevention (YOGA-DP) and conducted a feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) among high-risk people in India. This qualitative study’s objective was to identify and explore participants’ trial- and intervention-related barriers and facilitators. The feasibility trial was conducted at two Yoga centres in New Delhi and Bengaluru, India. In this qualitative study, 25 trial participants (13 intervention group, 12 control group) were recruited for semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using deductive logic and an interpretative phenomenological approach. Amongst intervention and control participants, key barriers to trial participation were inadequate information about recruitment and randomisation processes and the negative influence of non-participants. Free blood tests to aid T2DM prevention, site staff’s friendly behaviour and friends’ positive influence facilitated trial participation. Amongst intervention participants, readability and understanding of the programme booklets, dislike of the Yoga diary, poor quality Yoga mats, difficulty in using the programme video, household commitment during home sessions, unplanned travel, difficulty in practising Yoga poses, hesitation in attending programme sessions with the YOGA-DP instructor of the opposite sex and mixed-sex group programme sessions were key barriers to intervention participation. Adequate information was provided on T2DM prevention and self-care, good venue and other support provided for programme sessions, YOGA-DP instructors’ positive behaviour and improvements in physical and mental well-being facilitated intervention participation. In conclusion, we identified and explored participants’ trial- and intervention-related barriers and facilitators. We identified an almost equal number of barriers (n = 12) and facilitators (n = 13); however, intervention-related barriers and facilitators were greater than for participating in the trial. These findings will inform the design of the planned definitive RCT design and intervention and can also be used to design other Yoga interventions and RCTs.
Preservation of Villages in Central Italy: Geomatic Techniques’ Integration and GIS Strategies for the Post-Earthquake Assessment
Authors: Piccinini Fabio , Gorreja Alban , Di Stefano Francesco , Pierdicca Roberto , Sanchez Aparicio Luis Javier , Malinverni Eva Savina
Published: May 2022

Historical villages represent a highly vulnerable cultural heritage; their preservation can be ensured thanks to technological innovations in the field of geomatics and information systems. Among these, Geographical Information Systems (GISs) allow exploiting heterogeneous data for efficient vulnerability assessment, in terms of both time and usability. Geometric attributes, which currently are mainly inferred by visual inspections, can be extrapolated from data obtained by geomatic technologies. Furthermore, the integration with non-metric data ensures a more complete description of the post-seismic risk thematic mapping. In this paper, a high-performance information system for small urban realities, such as historical villages, is described, starting from the 3D survey obtained through the integrated management of recent innovative geomatic sensors, such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Terrestrial Laser Scanners (TLSs), and 360º images. The results show that the proposed strategy of the automatic extraction of the parameters from the GIS can be generalized to other case studies, thus representing a straightforward method to enhance the decision-making of public administrations. Moreover, this work confirms the importance of managing heterogeneous geospatial data to speed up the vulnerability assessment process. The final result, in fact, is an information system that can be used for every village where data have been acquired in a similar way. This information could be used in the field by means of a GIS app that allows updating the geospatial database, improving the work of technicians. This approach was validated in Gabbiano(Pieve Torina), a village in Central Italy affected by earthquakes in 2016 and 2017.
Predicting Poverty Using Geospatial Data in Thailand
Authors: Puttanapong Nattapong , Martinez Arturo , Bulan Joseph Albert Nino , Addawe Mildred , Durante Ron Lester , Martillan Marymell
Published: May 2022

Poverty statistics are conventionally compiled using data from socioeconomic surveys. This study examines an alternative approach to estimating poverty by investigating whether readily available geospatial data can accurately predict the spatial distribution of poverty in Thailand. In particular, the geospatial data examined in this study include the intensity of night-time light (NTL), land cover, vegetation index, land surface temperature, built-up areas, and points of interest. The study also compares the predictive performance of various econometric and machine-learning methods such as generalized least squares, neural network, random forest, and support-vector regression. Results suggest that the intensity of NTL and other variables that approximate population density are highly associated with the proportion of an area’s population that are living in poverty. The random forest technique yielded the highest level of prediction accuracy among the methods considered in this study, primarily due to its capability to fit complex association structures even with small-to-medium-sized datasets. This obtained result suggests the potential applications of using publicly accessible geospatial data and machine-learning methods for timely monitoring of the poverty distribution. Moving forward, additional studies are needed to improve the predictive power and investigate the temporal stability of the relationships observed.
Tiller Angle Control 1 Is Essential for the Dynamic Changes in Plant Architecture in Rice
Authors: Wang Hong , Tu Ranran , Sun Lianping , Wang Dongfei , Ruan Zheyan , Zhang Yue , Peng Zequn , Zhou Xingpeng , Fu Junlin , Liu Qunen , Wu Weixun , Zhan Xiaodeng , Shen Xihong , Zhang Yingxin , Cao Liyong , Cheng Shihua
Published: May 2022

Plant architecture is dynamic as plants develop. Although many genes associated with specific plant architecture components have been identified in rice, genes related to underlying dynamic changes in plant architecture remain largely unknown. Here, we identified two highly similar recombinant inbred lines (RILs) with different plant architecture: RIL-Dynamic (D) and RIL-Compact (C). The dynamic plant architecture of RIL-D is characterized by ‘loosetiller angle (tillering stage)–compact (heading stage)–loosecurved stem (maturing stage)’ under natural long-day (NLD) conditions, and ‘loosetiller angle (tillering and heading stages)–loosetiller angle and curved stem (maturing stage)’ under natural short-day (NSD) conditions, while RIL-C exhibits a compact plant architecture both under NLD and NSD conditions throughout growth. The candidate locus was mapped to the chromosome 9 tail via the rice 8K chip assay and map-based cloning. Sequencing, complementary tests, and gene knockout tests demonstrated that Tiller Angle Control 1 (TAC1) is responsible for dynamic plant architecture in RIL-D. Moreover, TAC1 positively regulates loose plant architecture, and high TAC1 expression cannot influence the expression of tested tiller-angle-related genes. Our results reveal that TAC1 is necessary for the dynamic changes in plant architecture, which can guide improvements in plant architecture during the modern super rice breeding.
Cerebral Cavernous Malformation Pathogenesis: Investigating Lesion Formation and Progression with Animal Models
Authors: Phillips Chelsea M. , Stamatovic Svetlana M. , Keep Richard F. , Andjelkovic Anuska V.
Published: May 2022

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is a cerebromicrovascular disease that affects up to 0.5% of the population. Vessel dilation, decreased endothelial cell–cell contact, and loss of junctional complexes lead to loss of brain endothelial barrier integrity and hemorrhagic lesion formation. Leakage of hemorrhagic lesions results in patient symptoms and complications, including seizures, epilepsy, focal headaches, and hemorrhagic stroke. CCMs are classified as sporadic (sCCM) or familial (fCCM), associated with loss-of-function mutations in KRIT1/CCM1, CCM2, and PDCD10/CCM3. Identifying the CCM proteins has thrust the field forward by (1) revealing cellular processes and signaling pathways underlying fCCM pathogenesis, and (2) facilitating the development of animal models to study CCM protein function. CCM animal models range from various murine models to zebrafish models, with each model providing unique insights into CCM lesion development and progression. Additionally, these animal models serve as preclinical models to study therapeutic options for CCM treatment. This review briefly summarizes CCM disease pathology and the molecular functions of the CCM proteins, followed by an in-depth discussion of animal models used to study CCM pathogenesis and developing therapeutics.
The Role of N and S Doping on Photoluminescent Characteristics of Carbon Dots from Palm Bunches for Fluorimetric Sensing of Fe3+ Ion
Authors: Saengsrichan Aphinan , Saikate Chaiwat , Silasana Peeranut , Khemthong Pongtanawat , Wanmolee Wanwitoo , Phanthasri Jakkapop , Youngjan Saran , Posoknistakul Pattaraporn , Ratchahat Sakhon , Laosiripojana Navadol , Wu Kevin C.-W. , Sakdaronnarong Chularat
Published: May 2022

This work aims to enhance the value of palm empty fruit bunches (EFBs), an abundant residue from the palm oil industry, as a precursor for the synthesis of luminescent carbon dots (CDs). The mechanism of fIuorimetric sensing using carbon dots for either enhancing or quenching photoluminescence properties when binding with analytes is useful for the detection of ultra-low amounts of analytes. This study revealed that EFB-derived CDs via hydrothermal synthesis exceptionally exhibited luminescence properties. In addition, surface modification for specific binding to a target molecule substantially augmented their PL characteristics. Among the different nitrogen and sulfur (N and S) doping agents used, including urea (U), sulfate (S), p-phenylenediamine (P), and sodium thiosulfate (TS), the results showed that PTS-CDs from the co-doping of p-phenylenediamine and sodium thiosulfate exhibited the highest PL properties. From this study on the fluorimetric sensing of several metal ions, PTS-CDs could effectively detect Fe3+ with the highest selectivity by fluorescence quenching to 79.1% at a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.1 µmol L−1. The PL quenching of PTS-CDs was linearly correlated with the wide range of Fe3+ concentration, ranging from 5 to 400 µmol L−1 (R2 = 0.9933).
Prime Editor 3 Mediated Beta-Thalassemia Mutations of the HBB Gene in Human Erythroid Progenitor Cells
Authors: Zhang Haokun , Zhou Qinlinglan , Chen Hongyan , Lu Daru
Published: May 2022

Recently developed Prime Editor 3 (PE3) has been implemented to induce genome editing in various cell types but has not been proven in human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Using PE3, we successfully installed the beta-thalassemia (beta-thal) mutations in the HBB gene in the erythroid progenitor cell line HUDEP-2. We inserted the mCherry reporter gene cassette into editing plasmids, each including the prime editing guide RNA (pegRNA) and nick sgRNA. The plasmids were electroporated into HUDEP-2 cells, and the PE3 modified cells were identified by mCherry expression and collected using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Sanger sequencing of the positive cells confirmed that PE3 induced precise beta-thal mutations with editing ratios from 4.55 to 100%. Furthermore, an off-target analysis showed no unintentional edits occurred in the cells. The editing ratios and parameters of pegRNA and nick sgRNA were also analyzed and summarized and will contribute to enhanced PE3 design in future studies. The characterization of the HUDEP-2 beta-thal cells showed typical thalassemia phenotypes, involving ineffective erythropoiesis, abnormal erythroid differentiation, high apoptosis rate, defective alpha-globin colocalization, cell viability deterioration, and ROS resisting deficiency. These HUDEP-2 beta-thal cells could provide ideal models for future beta-thal gene therapy studies.
The Plasmid pEX18Gm Indirectly Increases Caenorhabditis elegans Fecundity by Accelerating Bacterial Methionine Synthesis
Authors: Guo Rui , Li Gen , Lu Leilei , Sun Shan , Liu Ting , Li Mengsha , Zheng Yong , Walhout Albertha J. M. , Wu Jun , Li Huixin
Published: May 2022

Plasmids are mostly found in bacteria as extrachromosomal genetic elements and are widely used in genetic engineering. Exploring the mechanisms of plasmid–host interaction can provide crucial information for the application of plasmids in genetic engineering. However, many studies have generally focused on the influence of plasmids on their bacterial hosts, and the effects of plasmids on bacteria-feeding animals have not been explored in detail. Here, we use a “plasmid–bacteria–Caenorhabditis elegans” model to explore the impact of plasmids on their host bacteria and bacterivorous nematodes. First, the phenotypic responses of C. elegans were observed by feeding Escherichia coli OP50 harboring different types of plasmids. We found that E. coli OP50 harboring plasmid pEX18Gm unexpectedly increases the fecundity of C. elegans. Subsequently, we found that the plasmid pEX18Gm indirectly affects C. elegans fecundity via bacterial metabolism. To explore the underlying regulatory mechanism, we performed bacterial RNA sequencing and performed in-depth analysis. We demonstrated that the plasmid pEX18Gm upregulates the transcription of methionine synthase gene metH in the bacteria, which results in an increase in methionine that supports C. elegans fecundity. Additionally, we found that a pEX18Gm-induced increase in C. elegans can occur in different bacterial species. Our findings highlight the plasmid–bacteria–C. elegans model to reveal the mechanism of plasmids’ effects on their host and provide a new pattern for systematically studying the interaction between plasmids and multi-species.
Metalloendopeptidase ADAM-like Decysin 1 (ADAMDEC1) in Colonic Subepithelial PDGFRα+ Cells Is a New Marker for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Ha Se Eun , Jorgensen Brian G. , Wei Lai , Jin Byungchang , Kim Min-Seob , Poudrier Sandra M. , Singh Rajan , Bartlett Allison , Zogg Hannah , Kim Sei , Baek Gain , Kurahashi Masaaki , Lee Moon-Young , Kim Yong-Sung , Choi Suck-Chei , Sasse Kent C. , Rubin Samuel J. S. , Gottfried-Blackmore Andres , Becker Laren , Habtezion Aida , Sanders Kenton M. , Ro Seungil
Published: May 2022

Metalloendopeptidase ADAM-Like Decysin 1 (ADAMDEC1) is an anti-inflammatory peptidase that is almost exclusively expressed in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We have recently found abundant and selective expression of Adamdec1 in colonic mucosal PDGFRα+ cells. However, the cellular origin for this gene expression is controversial as it is also known to be expressed in intestinal macrophages. We found that Adamdec1 mRNAs were selectively expressed in colonic mucosal subepithelial PDGFRα+ cells. ADAMDEC1 protein was mainly released from PDGFRα+ cells and accumulated in the mucosal layer lamina propria space near the epithelial basement membrane. PDGFRα+ cells significantly overexpressed Adamdec1 mRNAs and protein in DSS-induced colitis mice. Adamdec1 was predominantly expressed in CD45− PDGFRα+ cells in DSS-induced colitis mice, with only minimal expression in CD45+ CD64+ macrophages. Additionally, overexpression of both ADAMDEC1 mRNA and protein was consistently observed in PDGFRα+ cells, but not in CD64+ macrophages found in human colonic mucosal tissue affected by Crohn’s disease. In summary, PDGFRα+ cells selectively express ADAMDEC1, which is localized to the colon mucosa layer. ADAMDEC1 expression significantly increases in DSS-induced colitis affected mice and Crohn’s disease affected human tissue, suggesting that this gene can serve as a diagnostic and/or therapeutic target for intestinal inflammation and Crohn’s disease.
Ion and Molecular Transport in Solid Electrolytes Studied by NMR
Authors: Volkov Vitaly I. , Chernyak Alexander V. , Slesarenko Nikita A. , Avilova Irina A.
Published: May 2022

NMR is the method of choice for molecular and ionic structures and dynamics investigations. The present review is devoted to solvation and mobilities in solid electrolytes, such as ion-exchange membranes and composite materials, based on cesium acid sulfates and phosphates. The applications of high-resolution NMR, solid-state NMR, NMR relaxation, and pulsed field gradient 1H, 7Li, 13C, 19F, 23Na, 31P, and 133Cs NMR techniques are discussed. The main attention is paid to the transport channel morphology, ionic hydration, charge group and mobile ion interaction, and translation ions and solvent mobilities in different spatial scales. Self-diffusion coefficients of protons and Li+, Na+, and Cs+ cations are compared with the ionic conductivity data. The microscopic ionic transfer mechanism is discussed.