bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural basis of terephthalate recognition by solute binding protein TphC
Authors: Gautom Trishna , Dheeman Dharmendra , Levy Colin , Butterfield Thomas , Caiger Lewis , Fisher Karl , Johannissen Linus , Dixon Neil
Published: April 2021

Biological degradation of Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic and assimilation of the corresponding monomers ethylene glycol and terephthalate (TPA) into central metabolism offers an attractive route for bio-based molecular recycling and bioremediation applications. A key step is the cellular uptake of the non-permeable TPA into bacterial cells which has been shown to be dependent upon the presence of the key tphC gene. However, little is known from a biochemical and structural perspective about the encoded solute binding protein, TphC. Here, we report the biochemical and structural characterisation of TphC in both open and TPA-bound closed conformations. This analysis demonstrates the narrow ligand specificity of TphC towards aromatic para-substituted dicarboxylates, such as TPA and closely related analogues. Further phylogenetic and genomic context analysis of the tph genes reveals homologous operons as a genetic resource for future biotechnological and metabolic engineering efforts towards circular plastic bio-economy solutions.
Reverse Heat Flow with Peltier-Induced Thermoinductive Effect
Authors: Okawa Kenjiro , Amagai Yasutaka , Fujiki Hiroyuki , Kaneko Nobu-Hisa
Published: April 2021

The inductive component is the only missing components in thermal circuits unlike their electromagnetic counterparts. Herein, we report an electrically controllable reverse heat flow, which can be regarded as a proper equivalent of the “thermoinductive” effect. The underlying concept is the heating and cooling of the ends of the material by the Peltier effect under an applied ac current; this form a negative temperature gradient in the opposite direction in a controllable manner. We have derived the exact solution indicating that this reverse heat flow occurs universally in solid-state systems, even in conventional metallic Cu, and that it is considerably enhanced by thermoelectric properties (i.e., a large Seebeck coefficient and low thermal conductivity). A local cooling of 25 mK was demonstrated in (Bi,Sb)2Te3, which was explained by our exact solution. This electrically controlled reverse heat flow is directly applicable to the fabrication of a “thermoinductor” in thermal circuits.
Activation of G-protein Coupled Estradiol Receptor 1 in the Dorsolateral Striatum Enhances Motivation for Cocaine and Drug-Induced Reinstatement in Female Rats
Authors: Quigley Jacqueline , Logsdon Molly K. , Graham Brianna C. , Beaudoin Kendra G. , Becker Jill B
Published: April 2021

BackgroundEstradiol potentiates drug-taking behaviors, including motivation to self-administer cocaine and reinstatement of drug-seeking after extinction in females, but not males. The dorsolateral stratum (DLS) is a region of the brain implicated in mediating drug-seeking behaviors and more specifically, is a target brain area to study how estradiol regulates these behaviors. The estradiol receptors α, β, and G-protein coupled estradiol receptor 1 (GPER1) are all present in the DLS. In this study the effects of activating GPER1 in the DLS on drug-seeking are investigated. MethodsGonad-intact male and female rats were trained to self-administer cocaine (0.4 mg/kg/inf) on an fixed-ratio 1 schedule of reinforcement. For four weeks, animals underwent testing on a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement to determine their motivation to attain cocaine. Halfway through progressive ratio testing, a selective agonist targeting GPER1 (G1) was administered intra-DLS to determine the contribution of GPER1 activation on motivation for cocaine. The effects of intra-GPER1 activation on drug-induced reinstatement after extinction was subsequently determined. ResultsActivation of GPER1, via G1 administration intra-DLS potentiated females’ motivation to self-administer cocaine. There was no effect of prior G1 treatment on extinction of cocaine-taking in females, however, G1 treatment resulted in greater drug-induced reinstatement (10 mg/kg cocaine, i.p.). There were no effects of intra-DLS GPER1 activation observed on motivation for cocaine or cocaine-induced reinstatement of responding in males. Conclusions These results support the conclusion that activation of GPER1 in the DLS enhances cocaine seeking behaviors for female, but not male rats.
Polymorphism on human aromatase affects protein dynamics and substrate binding: spectroscopic evidence.
Authors: Nardo Giovanna Di , Venere Almerinda Di , Zhang Chao , Nicolai Eleonora , Castrignanò Silvia , Paola Luisa Di , Gilardi Gianfranco , Mei Giampiero
Published: April 2021

Human aromatase is a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily, involved in steroid hormones biosynthesis. In particular, it converts androgen into estrogens being therefore responsible for the correct sex steroids balance. Due to its capacity in producing estrogens it has also been considered as a promising target for breast cancer therapy. Two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (R264C and R264H) have been shown to alter aromatase activity and they have been associated to an increased or decreased risk for estrogen-dependent pathologies. Here, the effect of these mutations on the protein dynamics is investigated by UV/FTIR and time resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. H/D exchange rates were measured by FTIR for the three proteins in the ligand-free, substrate- and inhibitor-bound forms and the data indicate that the wild-type enzyme undergoes a conformational change leading to a more compact tertiary structure upon substrate or inhibitor binding. Indeed, the H/D exchange rates are decreased when a ligand is present. In the variants, the exchange rates in the ligand-free and –bound forms are similar, indicating that a structural change is lacking, despite the single amino acid substitution is located in the peripheral shell of the protein molecule. Moreover, the fluorescence lifetimes data show that the quenching effect on tryptophan-224 observed upon ligand binding in the wild-type, is absent in both variants. Since this residue is located in the catalytic pocket, these findings suggest that substrate entrance and/or retention in the active site is partially compromised in both mutants. A contact network analysis demonstrates that the protein structure is organized in two main clusters, whose connectivity is altered by ligand binding, especially in correspondence of helix-G, where the amino acid substitutions occur. Our findings demonstrate that SNPs resulting in mutations on aromatase surface modify the protein flexibility that is required for substrate binding and catalysis. The cluster analysis provides a rationale for such effect, suggesting helix G as a possible target for aromatase inhibition.
Preparation and characterization of nanocellulose from Albizia lebbeck sawdust and their application in nanocomposites using poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)
Authors: Sultana Shahin , Reja Mohammad Mahbub , Hilary Lutfun Naher , Islam Muhammad Saiful , Uddin Mohammad Zamsed , Ajmo Walliullah Md.
Published: April 2021

The nanocellulose and its nanocomposites have significant importance in the most economic sectors of applications. This research involves the synthesis of nanocellulose from Albizia lebbeck wood sawdust. Quantitative evaluations of chemical components present in the sawdust of a native hardwood species Albizia lebbeck were determined by chemical analysis method. The results revealed that the approximate amount of hot water extractives, 96% ethanol extractives, alpha-cellulose, hollocellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and ash content were 6.9%, 7.31%, 40.72%, 65.10%, 24.38%, 25.67%, and 1.10% respectively. Nanocellulose was synthesized from the extracted alpha-cellulose by acid hydrolysis method. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) characterizations have been done for Albizia lebbeck sawdust, extracted alpha-cellulose and synthesized nanocellulose respectively. The average diameter of synthesized nanocellulose was found 155.6 nm by particle size analyzer. Nanocellulose with different weight percentages (2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10%) were reinforced with poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) to prepare nanocomposites by solution casting method. The thermal stability of pure PVC, nanocellulose and 2wt% nanocellulose–PVC nanocomposite was investigated and the result revealed that 2 wt% nanocellulose reinforced PVC nanocomposites is thermally more stable than the nanocellulose and pure PVC. The tensile properties of all nanocomposites were counducted by universal testing machine (UTM) and the highest tensile strength was obtained for 2 wt% nanocellulose reinforced PVC nanocomposites. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of 2 wt% nanocellulose reinforced PVC nanocomposites also exhibited the uniformly dispersion of nanocelulose in nanocomposite.
Workload is Associated with the Occurrence of Non-Contact Injuries in Professional Male Soccer Players: A Pilot Study
Authors: Nobari Hadi , Khalili Sara Mahmoudzadeh , Zamorano Angel Denche , Bowman Thomas G. , Adsuar Jose Carmelo , Perez-Gomez Jorge , Granacher Urs
Published: April 2021

Background: Injuries in professional soccer are a significant concern for teams, and they are, mostly, caused by high training load. This cohort study described the relationship between workload parameters with the occurrence of non-contact injuries, during weeks with high and low workload in professional soccer players throughout the season.Methods: Twenty-one professional soccer players aged 28.3±3.9 yrs. who competed in the Iranian Persian Gulf Pro League participated in this 48-week study. The external load was monitored using global positioning system (GPS, GPSPORTS Systems Pty Ltd) and the type of injury was documented by the team's medical staff daily. Odds ratio (OR) and relative risk (RR) were calculated for non-contact injuries for high- and low-load weeks according to acute (AW), chronic (CW), acute to chronic workload ratio (ACWR), and AW variation (Δ-Acute) values. By using Poisson distribution, the interval between previous and new injuries were estimated.Results: Overall, 12 non-contact injuries occurred during high load and 9 during low load weeks. Based on the variables ACWR and Δ-AW, there was a significantly increased risk of sustaining non-contact injuries (p < 0.05) during high-load weeks for ACWR (OR: 4.67), and Δ-AW (OR: 4.07). Finally, the expected time between injuries was significantly shorter in high load weeks for ACWR [1.25 vs 3.33, rate ratio time (RRT)] and Δ-AW [1.33 vs 3.45, RRT] respectively, compared to low load weeks.Conclusion: The risk of sustaining injuries was significantly larger during high workload weeks for ACWR, and Δ-AW compared with low workload weeks. The high numbers for OR in high load weeks indicate that there is a significant relationship between workload and occurrence of non-contact injuries. The predicted time to new injuries is shorter in high load weeks compared to low load weeks. Therefore, the frequency of injuries is higher during high load weeks for ACWR and Δ-AW. ACWR and Δ-AW appear to be good indicators for estimating the injury risk, and the time interval between injuries.
Detoxification of E-waste polluted site using cashew nut shell-based activated carbon
Authors: Tetteh Isaac Kow , Gidisu Christina Koli , Sulemana Alhassan , Miezah Kodwo
Published: April 2021

This study considered the potential use of activated carbon (AC) produced from cashew nuts for remediation of electronic waste (E-waste) polluted soil sites at Agbogbloshie, Accra, Ghana. The AC supplied by Climate-Environmental Research and Technology (CLERET) Laboratory, one of the research and development (R&D) umbrellas of Explore Scientific Innovations Ltd., Ghana. It was prepared by a two-stage process involving wood-fired reactor for thermal pyrolysis at temperature ranging from 800–1000 oC, followed with activation with oxidizing gas generated by wood-fired steam boiler at 160 oC and 7.5 atm pressure for 30 minutes. The product was characterized based on bulk density, particle size, iodine number, electrical conductivity (EC), porosity, and pH. Three replicates of soil samples were scooped from at a depth of 0–15 cm using a soil auger from two randomly selected sites. The samples were digested with 10 ml of ternary solution (20 ml of HClO4; 500 ml of HNO3; 50 ml of H2SO4) on a hot plate at 90°C for 30 minutes to an hour and analyzed for selected heavy metals (Pb, Fe, Cu, Cr and Cd) using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The cashew nut shell-based AC significantly removed the heavy metal contents of the E-waste polluted soil with removal efficiency in the order: Cd (100%) > Pb (93%) > Fe (87%) > Cu (87%) > Cr (76%) for granular and Cd (100%) > Pb (98%) > Fe (96%) > Cu (94%) > Cr (87%) for powdered activated carbons. The slopes of the linear graph of the adsorption isotherms of the tested metals which is indicative of the quality of adsorption of the metals were in the order: Pb (0.9754) > Fe (0.9093) > Cr (0.8799) > Cu (0.8176) > Cd (0.7511). These agro-based waste materials therefore have great potential for effective detoxification of E-waste polluted sites.
Early Identification of Acute Kidney Injury in the Icu With Real-time Urine Output Monitoring: A Clinical Investigation
Authors: Willner Dafna , Goldman Aliza , MSc Hagar Azran , Stern Tal , Kirshenbom Dvora , Rosenthal Guy
Published: April 2021

BackgroundThe inconsistencies in classifying AKI according to the KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes) urine output (UO) criteria have prevented an accurate assessment of the role this easily available biomarker can play in the early identification of AKI. Study goal: To assess and compare the performance of the two KDIGO criteria (SCr and UO) for early identification of AKI in the intensive care unit (ICU) by comparing the standard SCr criteria to real-time, consecutive, electronic urine output measurements. Methods95 catheterized patients in the GICU of Hadassah Medical Center, Israel were connected to The RenalSense™ Clarity RMS™ sensor kit to monitor UO electronically (UOelec). UOelec and SCr were recorded between 24-48 hours and up to one week, respectively, after ICU admission. ResultsReal-time consecutive UO measurements identified significantly more AKI patients than SCr in the patient population, 57.9% (N=55) versus 26.4% (N=25), respectively (P<0.0001). In 20 patients that had AKI according to both criteria, time to AKI identification was significantly earlier by the UOelec criteria as compared to the SCr criteria (P<0.0001). Among this population, the median (IQR) identification time of AKI UOelec was 12.75 (8.75, 26.25) hours from ICU admission and 39.06 (25.8, 108.64) hours for AKI SCr. ConclusionApplication of KDIGO criteria for AKI using continuous electronic monitoring of UO identifies more AKI patients, and identifies them earlier, than using the SCr criteria alone. This application can enable the clinician to set protocol goals for earlier intervention of the treatment of AKI.
The Impact of Optic Nerve Movement on Intracranial Radiation Treatment
Authors: Qing Kun , Nie Ke , Liu Bo , Feng Xue , Stone James R , Cui Taoran , Zhang Yin , Zhu Jiahua , Chen Quan , Wang Xiao , Parikh Shreel , Mugler John P. , Kim Sung , Weiner Joseph , Yue Ning , Chundury Anupama
Published: April 2021

Purpose: In radiotherapy, high radiation exposure to optic nerve (ON) can cause optic neuropathy or vision loss. In this study, we evaluated the pattern and extent of the ON movement using MRI, and investigated the potential dosimetric effect of this movement on radiotherapy. Methods: Five volunteers were requested to gaze toward five directions during MRI acquisitions, including neutral (straight forward), left/right (horizontal movement), and up/down (vertical movement). The motion of the ON was analyzed quantitatively. To evaluate the potential dosimetric effect of this motion, the ON motion was hypothetically applied to three patients with perioptic tumors.Results: The motion of ON followed a nearly conical shape among all five subjects. The anterior end of ONs moved with 10.4 ± 2.2 mm and 11.1 ± 1.4 mm horizontally for the left and right eyes, and 9.3 ± 0.8 mm vertically for the right eye. Posterior end of ON has negligible displacement. In the three clinical scenario, the hypothetical movement of ON in this measured range introduced non-negligible dosimetric effect. Conclusion: The range of motion of the anterior portions of the optic nerves is on the order of centimeters, which may need to be considered with extra attention during radiation therapy workflow.
A Fatal Case of Traumatic Brain Injury With Severe Coagulopathy Due to Rhabdophis Tigrinus (Yamakagashi) Bites, A Case Report
Authors: Ueno Daisuke , Shiino Yasukazu , Takahashi Jiro , Miyamoto Satomi , Inoue Takahiro
Published: April 2021

Background
Yamakagashi venom is a prothrombin activator, leading to disseminated intravascular coagulation. We report a fatal case of severe coagulopathy from head trauma assumed to be caused by a yamakagashi bite.
Case Presentation:
An 80-year-old man fell and developed systemic tonic–clonic convulsions. Head computed tomography revealed brain contusion and acute subdural hematoma. Physical examination revealed two bite marks with persistent bleeding on the right lower leg. The patient stated that he had been bitten by some creature 3 days prior, but the bite was left untreated. Laboratory tests showed fibrinogen levels below the detection limit. Even though 18 units of fresh frozen plasma were administered for coagulopathy, fibrinogen levels did not improve. He died approximately 13 hours after admission.
Conclusion
In this case of a yamakagashi bite with active bleeding due to trauma, early administration of Yamakagashi antivenom should be considered to control coagulopathy.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of a Large-Scale Crèche Intervention to Prevent Child Drowning in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Alfonso Y. Natalia , Hyder Adnan A , Alonge Olakunle , Salam Shumona Sharmin , Baset Kamran , Rahman Aminur , H Emdad Md. Dewan , Islam Md Irteja , Rahman Fazlur , El-Arifeen Shams , Bishai David
Published: April 2021

Drowning is the leading cause of death among children 12-59 months old in rural Bangladesh. This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of a large-scale crèche intervention in preventing child drowning. Estimates of the effectiveness of the crèches was based on prior studies and the program cost was assessed using monthly program expenditures captured prospectively throughout the study period from two different implementing agencies. The study evaluated the cost-effectiveness from both a program and societal perspective. Results showed that from the program perspective the annual operating cost of a crèche was $416.35 (95%C.I.: $222 to $576), the annual cost per child was $16 (95%C.I.: $9 to $22) and the incremental-cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) per life saved with the crèches was $17,803 (95%C.I.: $9,051 to $27,625). From the societal perspective (including parents time valued) the ICER per life saved was -$176,62 (95%C.I.: -$347,091 to -$67,684)—meaning crèches generated net economic benefits per child enrolled. Based on the ICER per disability-adjusted-life years averted from the societal perspective (excluding parents time), $2,020, the crèche intervention was cost-effective even when the societal economic benefits were ignored. Based on the evidence, the creche intervention has great potential for reducing child drowning at a cost that is reasonable.
Variable-Order Fractional Dynamic Behavior of Viscoelastic Damping Material
Authors: Li Zhanlong , Dong Zhifei , Wang Yao , Zhang Zheng , Qin Yuan
Published: April 2021

Viscoelastic damping material has been widely used in engineering machinery to absorb vibration and noise. In engineering, the dynamic behavior of the viscoelastic material is mainly affected by temperature and frequency. Classical dynamic behavior equations of the viscoelastic damping material have complex structures with multiple and ambiguous parameters. So a novel variable-order fractional constitutive model (VOFC) is established based on the variable-order fractional operator. Then the viscoelastic dynamic equations are derived by the Laplace transform of the VOFC model. The DMA test by the three-point bending mode is carried out at variable temperatures and frequencies and the frequency spectrum of the dynamic behaviors, i.e., the loss modulus, the storage modulus and the loss factor are obtained. Against the test data ,the VOFC model is compared with classical models such as the integer-order Maxwell model (IOM), the constant fractional-order Kelvin-Voigt model (CFK), the constant fractional-order Maxwell model (CFM) and the constant fractional-order standard linear solid model (CFS). Through the comparison , it can be found that the VOFC model can describe dynamic behaviors of the viscoelastic damping material at different temperatures and frequencies more accurately. Furthermore, the VOFC model has simpler structure and only two parameters with clearly-physical meanings.
Peer victimization and the association with hippocampal development and working memory in children with and without ADHD 
Authors: Papadopoulos Alissa , Seguin Diane , Correa Susana , Duerden Emma G.
Published: April 2021

Background
Children with ADHD are at risk of experiencing peer victimization, which is associated with delayed brain development and cognitive difficulties. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between problem behaviours, peer victimization, hippocampal morphology, and working memory in children with and without ADHD.
Methods
218 typically developing participants (50.5% male) and 232 participants diagnosed with ADHD (77.6% male) were recruited. The ADHD group was subdivided into inattentive (ADHD-I) or combined (ADHD-C) type. The Child Behaviour Checklist measured problem behaviours and peer victimization. Hippocampal subfield volumes were obtained using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-fifth edition measured working memory (WM).
Results
The ADHD-C group displayed significantly higher rates of problem behaviours and peer victimization (all, p < 0.001). Left Cornu Ammonis 3 (CA3) volume was a positive predictor of levels of peer victimization (all, p < 0.013). Left CA3 volume was a positive predictor of WM and left Cornu Ammonis 4 (CA4) volume was a negative predictor (all, p < 0.025). A cluster analysis revealed that children displaying symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity are the most at risk for peer victimization.
Conclusions
Interventions focusing on minimizing peer victimization may aid in mitigating adverse downstream effects, and aid in promoting brain health and cognitive function.
Public assistance program and depressive symptoms of the recipient: A cross-sectional Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study
Authors: Kino Shiho , Nishioka Daisuke , Ueno Keiko , Haseda Maho , Kondo Naoki
Published: April 2021

Background
Health inequality between public assistance recipients and non-recipients has been reported. However, it is not clear whether this is due to the participants’ income inequality or because of other socioeconomic and psychosocial factors. We aimed to examine whether older recipients of public assistance were more likely to have depressive symptoms compared to non-recipients.
Methods
Data were obtained from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study, a 2016 community-based study of older adults. Poisson regression analyses with a robust error variance using fixed effects were conducted to examine the relationship between receiving public assistance and depressive symptoms controlling for sociodemographic factors. Depressive symptoms were assessed by the Geriatric Depression Scale 15.
Results
We found that the recipients of public assistance were 1.57 times (95%CI: 1.47, 1.67) more likely to have depressive symptoms compared to non-recipients. When additionally adjusting for indicators of social participation, this relationship was slightly attenuated; however, the recipients still had worse mental health (Incidence rate ratio: 1.33; 95%CI: 1.25, 1.42).
Conclusions
Even after controlling for sociodemographic factors, older recipients of public assistance were more likely to have depressive symptoms than non-recipients. However, social participation could slightly attenuate the negative relationship between receiving public assistance and depressive symptoms. Therefore, the public assistance program needs to consider inclusion of other healthcare supports in addition to financial support.
Multi-State Analysis of the Impact of Childhood Starvation on the Healthy Life Expectancy of the Elderly in China
Authors: Dong Huiling , Wu Bingyi , Wu Qunhong
Published: April 2021

Background
Child malnutrition is not only common in developing countries, but also an important issue faced by developed countries. This study aimed to explore the influence and degree of childhood starvation on the health of the elderly, which providing a reference for formulating health-related policies under the concept of full-life cycle health.
Methods
Based on Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) in 2008, 2011 and 2014, this paper took a total of 13,185 elderly people aged 65–99 years as the target population. By IMaCH software, with gender and income level as the control variables, and the average life expectancy and healthy life expectancy of the elderly was measured. The\({x}^{2}\)test was used to explore the differences in socio-economic status of elderly people with or without starvation in childhood. The paired t test was used to analyze the difference both average life expectancy and healthy life expectancy.
Results
(1) The results showed that there was a statistically significant difference in age, gender, residency, education level, and income level between the groups with or without starvation (P < 0.05).(2)Transition probabilities in health-disability, health-death, and disability-death all showed an upward trend with age(P < 0.05), where the elderly who experienced starvation in childhood were higher than those without such an experience(P < 0.05). However, the probability of disability-health recovery showed a downward trend with age(P < 0.05), whereas the elderly who experienced starvation in childhood were lower than those without starvation(P < 0.05). (3) For the elderly who experienced starvation in childhood, the health indicators of the average life expectancy, healthy life expectancy, and healthy life expectancy proportion accounted for the remaining life were lower than those of the elderly without childhood starvation (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
The average life expectancy and healthy life expectancy of the elderly with childhood starvation both are lower than those without childhood starvation. It shows that the negative impact of childhood starvation on health through the life course till old age, has a persistent negative cumulative effect on the quantity and quality of life. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the nutritional status of children in poor families from the perspective of social policy-making.
Evaluation of water, sanitation and hygiene status of COVID-19 healthcare facilities in Ghana using the WASH FIT approach
Authors: Ashinyo Mary Eyram , Amegah Kingsley E. , Dubik Stephen Dajaan , Ntow-Kummi Gloria , Adjei Maxwell Kudzo , Amponsah Joyce , Ayivase John T. , Amoah Serwah , Ashinyo Anthony , Sodzi-Tettey Sodzi , Awekeya Hectoria , Codjoe Agnes , Tegbey Isaac Eyram , Kwakye Akosua Takyiwah O. , Akoriyea Samuel Kaba
Published: April 2021

Access to improved water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) is essential for the delivery of high-quality care in healthcare facilities and the prevention of hospital-acquired infections such as the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2. In addition, unimpeded access to WASH facilities in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) treatment centres (TCs) is central in facilitating compliance with infection prevention and control protocols. However, data for the WASH status of COVID-19 TCs in Ghana are limited. We evaluated the WASH status of seven COVID-19 TCs in Ghana using the WHO/UNICEF water and sanitation for health facility improvement tool (WASH FIT). The water domain had the highest number of indicators meeting standards with an average percentage score of 90.5% (range: 66.7–100%) across the seven TCs, followed by management (66.9%) and hygiene (58.7%). The TCs performed poorly in the sanitation and healthcare waste domain, with an average percentage score of 44.6% (range: 22.2–75%). These findings highlight the challenges being faced by COVID-19 TCs in implementing WASH services. Specific WASH interventions are urgently required to strengthen WASH services in the COVID-19 TCs. This should precede the prioritisation of resources to WASH infrastructure in the treatment facilities coupled with actions that involve all stakeholders.
Hypertension among coal mining workers associated with parental hypertension in Indonesia
Authors:   Faculty of Public Health, Jember University, Jl. Kalimantan No.42, Krajan Timur, Sumbersari, Kec. Sumbersari, Jember Regency, East Java 68121 Indonesia, Akbar Kurnia Ardiansyah
Published: April 2021

Hypertension is a chronic disease with its prevalence increasing from 2013 to 2018 among population of Indonesia. In 2013 the prevalence of hypertension was 25.8%, and in 2018 it increased to 34.1%. Therefore, the participation of all related parties, both doctors and health professionals from various fields of hypertension specialization, government, the private sector, and the public, is needed to control hypertension. One of the private parties that has the authority to participate in the prevention of hypertension in Indonesia is business. One sector that has a large workforce is the coal mining sector. This study aimed to look at the influence exerted by hypertension in parents’ case history on risks of incidence withhypertension among coal mining workers. This study is a cross-sectional one with two variables, namely hypertension in parents’ case histories and hypertension among coal mining workers performed on a sampling including 360 coal mining workers. The results showed that if a father had hypertension in his case history the risk of incidence with hypertension among coal mining workers was 3.143 times higher because OR = 3.143; 95% CI (1.568 <OR <6.229), while if a mother had hypertension in her case history the risk of incidence with hypertension among coal mining workers is 6.519 times higher because OR = 6.519; 95% CI (3,267 <OR <13,008) and if parents have hypertension in their case history, the risk of incidence with hypertension among coal mine workers is 6.061 times higher because OR = 6.061; 95% CI (2,910 <OR <12,625). The Conclusion is enough to prove that hereditary or genetic factors play a role in the increased risk of hypertension in coal mining workers.
Association between HSPA1B, S100B, and TNF genes polymorphisms and risks of chronic mercury poisoning
Authors:   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, 12 a the 3rd micro-district, Angarsk, 665827, Russian Federation, Chernyak Yu.I.
Published: April 2021

We examined association between HSPA1B (+1267A/G, rs1061581), TNF-α (–308G/A, rs1800629), and S100B (C/T, rs9722) genes polymorphisms and chronic mercury poisoning (CMP). PCR-RFLP analysis was used to examine a cohort consisting of 128 workers who were chronically exposed to mercury vapor; workers were distributed into two groups. The group 1 was made up of workers with long working experience who didn’t have CMP (n = 46), the group 2 included patients with long-term CMP period (n = 82). In addition, we estimated frequencies of rs1061581genotypes in 298 practically healthy men from regional sub-population (group 3). HSPA1B (+1267A/G) polymorphic variant was established to have more frequent carriage of both minor G allele (р = 0.003) and a rare GG homozygote (р = 0.005) in the group 2 against the group 1. 23.2 % patients from the group 2 turned out to have GG genotype and CMP was diagnosed in 95 % people who had it. We didn’t detect any differences in genotypes distribution among people from the examined occupational cohort (groups 1 and 2) against the group 3. GG-HSP1AB (+1267A/G) homozygous genotype was shown to be associated with CMP risks (OR = 13.57, p < 0.0001, recessive model). Haplotype G–G (rs1061581–rs1800629) carriers were established to run 2.6 higher risks of CMP occurrence (р = 0.0098), and there was a significant linkage disequilibrium D' = 0.459 (р = 0.0004) between a pair of the abovementioned polymorphic loci. These data indicate that there is genetic interaction between HSPA1B (+1267A/G) and TNF-α (–308G/A) loci in the examined cohort. Overall, these results indicate that carriers of GG-HSPA1B (+1267A/G) genotype run high predictive risks of CMP occurrence.
Gut microbiota as risk factor causing obesity in children
Authors:   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8/1 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119048, Russian Federation, Petrova P.Yu. , Aga A.D. ,   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8/1 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119048, Russian Federation, Trapeznikova E.S. ,   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8/1 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119048, Russian Federation, Budanova E.V. ,   I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 8/1 Trubetskaya Str., Moscow, 119048, Russian Federation
Published: April 2021

Nowadays obesity resulting from abnormal or excessive fat deposits in a body has become a true epidemic. Risk factors that cause the disease include improper lifestyle, hereditary predisposition, as well as metabolic activity of gut microbiota. Research works performed over the last decades indicate that microbes that create colonies in human intestines play a significant role in maintaining proper metabolism. There is a correlation between disorders in gut microbiota structure and immune disorders, elevated susceptibility to infections, and obesity. There is more and more evidence that gut microbiota and its overall bacterial genome exert their influence on nutrients assimilation and regulate energy metabolism and fat accumulation. Certain differences were detected in microbiota gut structure in children and adults with obesity and people with proper body mass index. Delivery and feeding are among key factors influencing gut microbiota formation in a child. Thus, research results indicate that natural birth, as opposed to cesarean section, can prevent obesity occurrence in a child. Breast-feeding also makes a substantial contribution into development of an infant since breast milk is balanced food that provides optimal metabolism in an infant’s body and helps creating proper gut microbiota. At the same time, according to data obtained via numerous research works, artificial feeding can be related to obesity occurrence in future. Ways to fight obesity include medication therapy, dietary nutrition, physical activity as well as bariatric surgery; the latter is nowadays considered to be the most efficient procedure on the matter. Reduction in body mass via influencing gut microbiota is a promising trend in research in the sphere. Despite there are objective data on benign effects produced by probiotics and prebiotics on gut microbiota, experts haven’t been able to reach agreement on their efficiency yet.
Deglobalization: New Trends and Challenges in World Economy
Authors: Komolov O. O.
Published: April 2021

The article deals with the problem of today’s economy de-globalization in conditions of post-crisis restoration of world economy from 2009 to the present day. The author shows that de-globalization is characterized by aggravation of protectionist policy of states (especially in conditions of combating against COVID-19 pandemic) and extension of sanction regimes. It caused the relative drop in intensity of global trade and global capital flows and at the same time led to the crisis in regional integration in different parts of the world. The article systematized the most widely spread approaches of today’s researchers to the issue of de-globalization. It was found out that expectations of fast return of global economy to the former trajectory of globalization were groundless. The author shows that COVID-19 pandemic fostered disintegration processes in global economy. It was caused not only by objective need to combat against the virus but also by goals of stimulating policy of states essential for overcoming lock-down after-effects. A conclusion was drawn that, on the one hand, de-globalization conditions give states the tools for supporting national manufacturers and development of priority industries but, on the other hand, overall radicalization of political discourse could raise risks of social tension and military confrontation.
Labour Productivity in Medical Institutions as an Object of Scientific Analysis
Authors: Popsuyko A. N. , Batsina E. A. , Artamonova G. V. , Morozova E. A.
Published: April 2021

The article provides results of scientific research on problems of evaluating labour productivity of workers in medical institutions. Now we face a certain deficit of knowledge about possibilities and specificity of using calculations of labour productivity in sectors of social sphere, especially public health. The authors analyzed sources of home and foreign literature, normative documents for the period 2010–2019 dealing with this problem and practices of public health system functioning. For the research they used database of the Russian index of academic citing, the search system of full texts of academic publications Google Scholar, reference system ‘ConsultantPlus’ and e-resource eLIBRARY.RU. At the same time the authors analyzed public reports by authority representatives on issues of raising labour productivity in medical institutions, information of open internet-sources with the help of search engine ‘Yandex’. The research helped the authors formulate their own definition of labour productivity in respect to medical institutions’ work. The article enumerates factors affecting the labour productivity index, such as selection system, training and development of personnel, working environment and staff interaction, digitalization of personnel in medical organization, system of quality management, advanced managerial technologies.
Retratos da quarentena: relato pedagógico de uma sequência didática desenvolvida no curso de inglês do ensino secundário
Authors: Souto Guimarães Araújo Joana
Published: April 2021

O texto relata a experiência em torno de uma sequência didática desenvolvida no curso de inglês do 1º ano do Ensino Médio (designação brasileira equivalente ao ensino secundário em Portugal) durante o período de ensino remoto emergencial em 2020. Com o enfoque nos estudos dos gêneros textuais, sobretudo aqueles ligados à transmissão de informações pessoais, como é o caso do “perfil pessoal”, o curso propôs a análise e a produção de imagens acompanhadas de textos/áudios sobre o cotidiano da quarentena, estabelecendo-se relações entre a composição da imagem, a representação do espaço e a expressão da subjetividade. Além da perspectiva multimodal, em que fazemos o uso de tecnologias de apoio, como de edição de áudio e imagem, e publicação em murais on-line (Padlet), a sequência didática objetivou a troca de experiências entre os alunos, oferecendo-lhes a possibilidade de conexão humana durante o isolamento, além de propiciar uma oportunidade para pensarem criticamente a linguagem e mobilizarem as habilidades linguísticas aprendidas durante o curso. O relato pretende, portanto, acompanhar o entrecruzamento de duas abordagens: uma de caráter reflexivo, ligada aos processos de espacialização, subjetivação e à noção de discurso, e outra mais pragmática, relacionada aos estudos dos gêneros textuais e ao multiletramento no ensino de línguas.
Assessment for Learning in Primary Language Learning and Teaching
Authors: Britton Maria
Published: April 2021

This volume provides a detailed account of the practical use of Assessment for Learning (AfL) in primary language classrooms. It gives an in-depth account of the ways in which eight experienced primary language teachers incorporated this type of assessment into their practice and discusses the possible impact of AfL on primary language learning.
The Differential Effects of Social Media on Depressive Symptoms and Suicidal Ideation Among the Younger and Older Adult Population in Hong Kong During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Population-Based Cross-sectional Survey Study
Authors: Yang Xue , Yip Benjamin H K , Mak Arthur D P , Zhang Dexing , Lee Eric K P , Wong Samuel Y S
Published: April 2021

Background

Social media has become a ubiquitous part of daily life during the COVID-19 pandemic isolation. However, the role of social media use in depression and suicidal ideation of the general public remains unclear. Related empirical studies were limited and reported inconsistent findings. Little is known about the potential underlying mechanisms that may illustrate the relationship between social media use and depression and suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

This study tested the mediation effects of social loneliness and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms on the relationship between social media use and depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation, as well as the moderation effect of age on the mediation models.

Methods

We administered a population-based random telephone survey in May and June 2020, when infection control measures were being vigorously implemented in Hong Kong. A total of 1070 adults (658 social media users and 412 nonusers) completed the survey. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and multigroup SEM were conducted to test the mediation and moderation effects.

Results

The weighted prevalence of probable depression was 11.6%; 1.6% had suicidal ideation in the past 2 weeks. Both moderated mediation models of depressive symptoms (χ262=335.3; P<.05; comparative fit index [CFI]=0.94; nonnormed fit index [NNFI]=0.92; root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA]=0.06) and suicidal ideation (χ234=50.8; P<.05; CFI=0.99; NNFI=0.99; RMSEA=0.02) showed acceptable model fit. There was a significantly negative direct effect of social media use on depressive symptoms among older people (β=–.07; P=.04) but not among younger people (β=.04; P=.55). The indirect effect via PTSD symptoms was significantly positive among both younger people (β=.09; P=.02) and older people (β=.10; P=.01). The indirect effect via social loneliness was significant among older people (β=–.01; P=.04) but not among younger people (β=.01; P=.31). The direct effect of social media use on suicidal ideation was not statistically significant in either age group (P>.05). The indirect effects via PTSD symptoms were statistically significant among younger people (β=.02; P=.04) and older people (β=.03; P=.01). Social loneliness was not a significant mediator between social media use and suicidal ideation among either age group (P>.05).

Conclusions

Social media may be a “double-edged sword” for psychosocial well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, and its roles vary across age groups. The mediators identified in this study can be addressed by psychological interventions to prevent severe mental health problems during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
One Year of Pandemic Learning Response: Benefits of Massive Online Delivery of the World Health Organization’s Technical Guidance
Authors: Utunen Heini , Van Kerkhove Maria D , Tokar Anna , O'Connell Gillian , Gamhewage Gaya M , Fall Ibrahima Socé
Published: April 2021

The World Health Organization (WHO) launched the first web-based learning course on COVID-19 on January 26, 2020, four days before the director general of the WHO declared a public health emergency of international concern. The WHO is expanding access to web-based learning for COVID-19 through its open-learning platform for health emergencies, OpenWHO. Throughout the pandemic, OpenWHO has continued to publish learning offerings based on the WHO’s emerging evidence-based knowledge for managing the COVID-19 pandemic. This study presents the various findings derived from the analysis of the performance of the OpenWHO platform during the pandemic, along with the core benefits of massive web-based learning formats.
Theory Integration for Lifestyle Behavior Change in the Digital Age: An Adaptive Decision-Making Framework (Preprint)
Authors: Zhang Chao , Lakens Daniël , IJsselsteijn Wijnand A
Published: April 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

Despite the growing popularity of digital health interventions, limitations of traditional behavior change theories and a lack of theory integration hinder theory-driven behavior change applications. In this paper, we aim to review theories relevant to lifestyle behavior change from the broader psychology literature and then integrate these theories into a new theoretical framework called adaptive decision-making to address two specific problems. First, our framework represents lifestyle behaviors at two levels—one of individual daily decisions (action level) and one of larger behavioral episodes (reflection level)—to more closely match the temporal characteristics of lifestyle behaviors and their associated digital data. Second, the framework connects decision-making theories and learning theories to explain how behaviors and cognitive constructs dynamically influence each other, making it a suitable scaffold for building computational models. We map common digital intervention techniques onto the behavioral and cognitive processes in the framework and discuss possible contributions of the framework to both theory development and digital intervention design.
Correction: Work-Related and Personal Factors Associated With Mental Well-Being During the COVID-19 Response: Survey of Health Care and Other Workers (Preprint)
Authors: Evanoff Bradley A , Strickland Jaime R , Dale Ann Marie , Hayibor Lisa , Page Emily , Duncan Jennifer G , Kannampallil Thomas , Gray Diana L
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

The response to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has created an unprecedented disruption in work conditions. This study describes the mental health and well-being of workers both with and without clinical exposure to patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Objective: The aim of this study is to measure the prevalence of stress, anxiety, depression, work exhaustion, burnout, and decreased well-being among faculty and staff at a university and academic medical center during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and describe work-related and personal factors associated with their mental health and well-being. Methods: All faculty, staff, and postdoctoral fellows of a university, including its medical school, were invited in April 2020 to complete an online questionnaire measuring stress, anxiety, depression, work exhaustion, burnout, and decreased well-being. We examined associations between these outcomes and factors including work in high-risk clinical settings and family/home stressors. Results: There were 5550 respondents (overall response rate of 34.3%). Overall, 38% of faculty and 14% of staff (n=915) were providing clinical care, while 57% of faculty and 77% of staff were working from home. Among all workers, anxiety (prevalence ratio 1.37, 95% CI 1.09-1.73), depression (prevalence ratio 1.28, 95% CI 1.03-1.59), and high work exhaustion (prevalence ratio 1.24, 95% CI 1.13-1.36) were independently associated with community or clinical exposure to COVID-19. Poor family-supportive behaviors by supervisors were also associated with these outcomes (prevalence ratio 1.40, 95% CI 1.21-1.62; prevalence ratio 1.69, 95% CI 1.48-1.92; and prevalence ratio 1.54, 95% CI 1.44-1.64, respectively). Age <40 years and a greater number of family/home stressors were also associated with these poorer outcomes. Among the subset of clinicians, caring for patients with COVID-19 and working in high-risk clinical settings were additional risk factors. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the pandemic has had negative effects on the mental health and well-being of both clinical and nonclinical employees. Mitigating exposure to COVID-19 and increasing supervisor support are modifiable risk factors that may protect mental health and well-being for all workers.