bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical activity and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a scoping review
Authors: 项新月  , 黄丽华  , 方勇  , 蔡莎莎  , 张明月
Published: February 2022

Background
Reduced physical activity (PA) was the strongest predictor of all-cause mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This scoping review aimed to map the evidence on the current landscape of physical activity, barriers and facilitators, and assessment tools across COPD patients.
Methods
Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review methodology framework guided the conduct of this review. An electronic search was conducted on five English databases (PubMed, Cochrane library, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Web of Science (Medline)) and three Chinese databases (CNKI, CQVIP and WAN-FANG) in November 2021. Two authors independently screened the literature, extracted the studies characteristics.
Results
The initial search yielded 3686 results, of which 1754 were duplicates. Of the remaining 135 articles, 42 studies met the inclusion criteria. Among the reviewed articles, there were 14 (33.3%) cross-sectional study, 9 (21.4%) cohort study, 4 (9.5%) longitudinal study, 3 qualitative study, 12 (28.7%) randomized control trials (RCTs). The main barriers identified were older age, women, lung function, comorbidities, COPD symptoms (fear of breathlessness, severe fatigue, anxiety and depression), GOLD stage, frequency of exacerbation, oxygen use, low motivation and environment-related (season and weather). Twelve studies have evaluated the effects of physical exercise (e.g., walking training), pulmonary rehabilitation, pedometer, self-efficacy enhancing intervention, behavioral modification intervention on physical activity and have had inconsistent results.
Conclusions
Changing physical activity behavior in patients with COPD requires multidisciplinary collaboration. Future studies need to identify the best instruments to measure physical activity in clinical practice. Future studies should focus on the effects of different types, time and intensity of physical activity in COPD patients and conduct randomized, adequately-powered, controlled trials to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of behavioral change interventions in physical activity.
Wear Evaluation of Poly(vinyl alcohol) Hydrogel by UV Spectrometry and TOC Measurement of Lubricant
Authors: Takefuji Haruna , Annaka Masahiko , Yashima Shintaro
Published: February 2022

We report the wear evaluation of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogel by measuring the polymer concentration in the lubricant after the sliding test. Hydrogels are expected as biomaterials, and wear evaluation is required for their application. However, the swelling and drying behavior of hydrogels makes accurate wear evaluation difficult by applying the same method for solid materials. In this work, sliding tests were conducted, then the microscopic observation of the worn gel sample and the quantitative wear evaluation using the lubricant were performed. To understand the relationship between wear and surface geometry, glass substrates with various surface roughness and hydrogels with different surface geometries were used. UV spectrometry and total organic carbon measurements of the lubricant revealed that the wear amount increases with sliding time or surface roughness of the substrate, and it is possible to quantitatively evaluate the wear of the PVA gel. The effect of surface dimples on the hydrogel was different depending on the counter substance; friction and wear decreased against the glass, but low friction and high wear appeared against the gel. Because there were a few wear scars on the gel with dimples, it was suggested that dimples scrape and trap the generated wear particles, reducing the transfer of wear particles and surface damage. Measuring the concentration of PVA polymers in the lubricant made it possible to separately and quantitatively evaluate whether the wear of the gel was due to surface deformation and transfer, or loss due to surface damage.
A comparison of opioid-containing anesthesia versus opioid-free anesthesia using the Cortínez-Sepúlveda model on differential cytokine responses in patients undergoing gastric bypass surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Martínez-López Erika , Campos-Pérez Wendy , Ramírez-Plascencia Lilia , Pérez-Robles Mariana , Rivera-Valdés Juan J , Sánchez-Muñoz Patricia , Pérez-Vargas Liliana , González-Landeros Dulce , Cuevas Juan Heberto Muñoz
Published: February 2022

Background: Anesthetic agents, including opioids can modulate the altered immune function in patients with obesity through mechanisms that involve the expression and release of cytokines. For this reason, anesthetic care in patients with obesity remains controversial. Therefore, the aim of the study was to compare the effect of opioid-containing anesthesia vs opioid-free anesthesia using the Cortínez-Sepúlveda model on serum levels of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α before and after surgery in obese patients undergoing bypass surgery.Methods: A randomized cross-sectional study of 40 unrelated obese adults was performed at the Civil Hospital of Guadalajara “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca”. Before undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, patients were randomly assigned to two anesthesia groups: opiod-containing (n=20) or opiod-free (n=20). The opioid used in the opioid-containing anesthesia group was fentanyl. To characterize the disposition of intravenous propofol for the target-controlled infusion technique in obese patients, the Cortínez-Sepúlveda pharmacokinetic model was used. Body mass was determined to the nearest 0.05kg using a balance scale (Seca 703; Seca, Hamburg, Germany). Blood samples were taken before and immediately after surgery and cytokine serum levels were determined with ELISA kits. Pain was assessed using a numerical pain rating scale. Adverse effects were collected 24 h after surgery.Results: 6 men and 34 women were included in this study (37.9±10.6 years). Pre-surgery IL-6 and TNF-α serum levels were not detected in all participants. However, IL-1β levels significantly decreased after surgery (49.58pg/mL (18.50-112.20)-before surgery vs 13pg/mL (5.43-22)-after surgery, p=0.019). IL-6 concentrations were significantly higher in subjects who received opioid-containing anesthesia (with fentanyl) compared to subjects with opioid-free anesthesia (224.5pg/mL (186.3-262.8) vs 99.5pg/mL (60.8-138.2), respectively, p<0.001; adjusted by age, gender, and BMI). In addition, the use of opioids confers an increased risk for higher IL-6 levels in obese patients (OR=2.95, 95% CI: 1.2-7.2, p=0.010). A linear regression model showed that the operative time (in hours) of bypass surgery and anesthetic technique were positively correlated with IL-6 levels.Conclusion: Anesthesia with opioids was positively related to IL-6 serum levels in obese patients undergoing bypass surgery. This finding could have clinical relevance when choosing an appropriate anesthetic management plan for bariatric surgical patients. Trial registration: The study was retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov Identification Number: NCT04854252, date 22/04/2021.
The End Of Life Experiences Of People Living With Socio-Economic Deprivation In The Developed World: An Integrative Review
Authors: Bowers Sarah P , Chin Ming , O'Riordan Maire , Carduff Emma
Published: February 2022

Background: Those experiencing socioeconomic deprivation have poorer quality of health throughout their life course which can result in poorer quality of death – with decreased access to palliative care services, greater use of acute care, and a disparity in deaths at home compared with patients from less deprived populations.Aim: To summarise the current global evidence from developed countries on end-of-life experience for those living with socio-economic deprivation.Design: Integrative review in accordance with PRISMA. A thorough search of major databases from 2010-2020, using clear definitions of end-of-life care and well-established proxy indicators of socio-economic deprivation. Empirical research describing experience of adult patients in the last year of life care were included.Results: Forty studies were included from a total of 3508 after screening and selection. These were deemed to be of high quality; from a wide range of countries with varying healthcare systems; and encompassed all palliative care settings for patients with malignant and non-malignant diagnoses. Three themes were identified: 1) the multi-dimensional experience at end-of-life, 2) preferences and planning and 3) the uptake and utilization of services.Conclusions: Current models of healthcare services are not meeting the needs of those experiencing socio-economic deprivation at the end-of-life. Further work is needed to understand the disparity in care, particularly around ensuring patients voices are heard and can influence service development and delivery.
Live with mask and guilt: A qualitative study on experiences of stigma among postoperative oral cancer patients in China
Authors: Tan Chuxia , Yang Ronghong , Wang Dangdang , Zhong Chenxi , Mei Ranran , Deng Xianjiao , Chen Shihao , Li Wei , Ye Man
Published: February 2022

Objectives: To explore the drives, manifestations and coping strategies of stigma in postoperative oral cancer patients to provide a reference for the formulation of targeted intervention measures.Methods: Using a phenomenological approach, we enrolled 15 postoperative oral cancer patients in a certain Grade a hospital from 10 March 2021 to 30 June 2021 in Hunan Province, China. Semi-structured interviews were conducted. The interview data were analyzed using a framework analysis based on qualitative content analysis methods. This study aligns with the COREQ checklist.Results: The stigma experience of postoperative oral cancer patients can be divided into 3 themes: (1) drivers (internal factors and external factors); (2) manifestations (isolation, feeling of guilt, feeling of inferiority and the experience of discrimination); (3) coping strategies (self-adjustment, seeking social support and enhance physical quality).Conclusion: Postoperative oral cancer patients lived with mask and guilt, and experienced multiple forms of discrimination. Further work is needed to increase education and awareness about oral cancer to guide them to take positive coping and reduce stigma.
Microseismic energy distribution and impact risk analysis of complex heterogeneous spatial evolution of extra-thick layered strata
Authors: Lai Xingping , Jia Chong , Cui Feng , Chen Jianqiang , Zhou Yupu , Feng Ganggui , Gao Yuanjiang
Published: February 2022

In the process of deep mining of coal resources, coal seams with better geological conditions are gradually mined preferentially, and the problem of safe and efficient mining of working faces in complex and heterogeneous spaces of residual coal seams is faced. Taking the Kuangou Coal Mine as the background, using microseismic monitoring instruments and pressure sensor monitoring systems, the rock pressure appearance and microseismic energy characteristics accompanying the evolution of the overburden strata structure in the mining of solid coal and the lower working face of the gob are analyzed. Research on the precursory characteristics and early warning of micro-earthquakes. The research results show that: (1) The period of the W1123 working face mining under solid coal is relatively frequent, and the energy of microseismic events is higher than that under the mined-out area. However, the overlying rock structure under the gob is loose, broken and easy to move, showing obvious "high frequency-low energy" characteristics. (2) Extremely low values of the number and energy of microseismic events occurred in the first 3 to 5 days of the rockburst event in the working face, and the locations of the rockburst disaster in the mine were generally distributed at the edge of the low-density area of the microseismic event. The accuracy of rockburst prediction is effectively improved through multi-parameter comprehensive early warning. (3) Roof deep hole blasting and roof cutting pressure relief weaken the roof energy accumulation and the concentrated release of rock formation energy, reduce the roof activity intensity in the microseismic event gathering area, and reduce the occurrence of large-energy events, which will easily induce large shock hazards. The energy event weakens into a slow release of multiple small energy events. This research provides a reference for the safe and efficient mining of working faces in complex space environment.
Urinary Galectin-3 and CXCL-7 as biomarkers for diagnosing interstitial cystitis and correlation with clinical characteristics
Authors: Liu Junjiang , Hou Huiqing , Zhang Yunxia , Li Shoubin , Sun Fuzhen , Wang Gang , Wei Dong , Yang Tao , Gu Shouyi
Published: February 2022

Background: Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the bladder, while both Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 7 (CXCL-7) and Galectin-3 are the molecule related inflammatory diseases.Objective: This study sought to investigate the potential feasibility of diagnosis of interstitial cystitis by measurement of the urinary level of Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 7 (CXCL-7) and Galectin-3.Methods: Both interstitial cystitis patients with or without Hunner’s ulcers were recruited in the study, while healthy subjects were involved as controls. Then we collected urine samples from all the involved subjects, and the CXCL-7 level and Galectin-3 level in the supernatants of urine were measured by ELISA. Urinary creatinine concentrations (mg Cr) of involved subjects were measured to normalize the level of CXCL-7 and Galectin-3. Also the clinical data and demographic characteristics of the recruited subjects were collected. The Receiver-operating curve (ROC) analysis was performed to explore the sensitivity and specialty of both CXCL-7 and Galectin-3 to identify interstitial cystitis. And the associations between urinary levels (CXCL-7 or Galectin-3) and the symptom severity (O'Leary and Sant Symptom, OSSI index) were analyzed with linear regression.Results: The urinary levels of both CXCL-7 and Galectin-3 were significantly increased in interstitial cystitis compared to the healthy controls. The urinary CXCL-7 showed the sensitivity of 59.5% and specificity of 94.6%, at the cut-off value 21.30 pg/mg Cr to discriminate interstitial cystitis from controls, while the urinary Galectin-3 level showed the sensitivity of 62.2% and specificity of 91.9%, at the cut-off value 11.32 pg/mg Cr to discriminate interstitial cystitis from controls. Urinary Galectin-3 level was higher in interstitial cystitis patients with Hunner’s ulcers compared to patients without Hunner’s ulcers. The sensitivity and specificity were 45.5% and 93.3%, respectively for urinary CXCL-7 to discriminate from interstitial cystitis patients with Hunner’s ulcers to patients without Hunner’s ulcers, at the cut-off value of 35.97 pg/mg Cr. In addition, the urinary Galectin-3 level was positive correlated with the symptom severity.Conclusion: CXCL-7 and Galectin-3 were elevated in the interstitial cystitis patients, both of which could be supplementary biomarker for diagnosis of interstitial cystitis. Moreover, urinary CXCL-7 might serve as the biomarker to decimate interstitial cystitis with Hunner ‘s ulcers from the without Hunner’s ulcers.
Identification of ruptured intracranial aneurysms using the aneurysm-specific prediction score in patients with multiple aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhages
Authors: Zhang Xue-hua , Zhao Xiao-yan , Liu Lan-lan , Wen Li , Wang Guang-xian
Published: February 2022

Background: For patients with multiple aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhages (SAHs), a simple and fast imaging method that can identify ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIAs) may have great clinical value. We sought to use the aneurysm-specific prediction (ASP) score to identify RIAs in patients with multiple IAs (MIAs) and evaluate the ASP score.Methods: Between May 2018 and May 2021, 134 patients with 290 MIAs were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had an SAH due to IA rupture. CT angiography (CTA) was used to assess the maximum diameter, shape, and location of IAs to calculate the ASP score. Then, the ASP score was applied to patients with actual RIAs. Results: The IAs with the highest ASP scores had not ruptured in 17 (12.7%) of the 134 patients with 290 MIAs. The sensitivity, specificity, false omission rate, diagnostic error rate, and diagnostic accuracy of the ASP score were higher than those of the maximum diameter, shape, and location of IAs.Conclusions: The present study suggests that the ASP score has high diagnostic accuracy in identifying RIAs in patients with MIAs and SAH, but that it needs further evaluation.
Usefulness Of A Commercial LAMP Assay For Detection Of Malaria Infection, Including Plasmodium Knowlesi Cases, In Returning Travelers In Spain
Authors: Ramírez Alexandra Martín , Lanza Marta , Hisam Shamilah , Perez-Ayala Ana , Rubio José M.
Published: February 2022

Objective: Main malaria diagnosis is based on microscopic examination combined with rapid diagnostic tests. Both methods have low sensitivity and specificity. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification techniques have shown a sensitivity similar to PCR but with lower times of performance.This study aimed to assess a commercial LAMP for the diagnosis of malaria (Alethia® Malaria) against the Nested-Multiplex-Malaria PCR, including the analytical sensitivity and the operational characteristics.Results: One hundred five samples out of 114 rendered valid results, obtaining 85 positive samples and 18 negative samples with an agreement of 98% compared to the reference method with a sensitivity, specificity and kappa coefficient of 98.84%, 94.74% and 0.94 respectively, with only two discrepant samples. The turnaround time was estimated in 1 hour and 30 minutes, with a cost of 32.67€ per determination. The results showed several advantages of the Alethia® Malaria, as it was easy to perform, minimal training requirement and 40 minutes run. Moreover, it includes an internal control to avoid false negatives. However, it also showed some limitations such as the need for a specific amplification and detection device, the detection of only Plasmodium spp. and a very high price.
Understanding Variability in Carbon Foot Prints of Smallholder Dairy Farm, in the Central Highlands of Ethiopia.
Authors: Feyissa ABRAHAM ABERA , Senbeta Fayera , Diriba Dawit , Tolera Adugna
Published: February 2022

Smallholder dairy farms face enormous challenges of increasing milk production while also mitigating associated GHG emission, thereby increasing climate resilience. Carbon foot prints (CF) of smallholder milk production is expected to increase with increasing demand for dairy products under business as usual scenario. This study estimate the carbon foot prints of smallholder milk production and examine variation across farms using data from 480 households in order to identify viable options for mitigating GHG emissions. We applied a cradle to farm-gate Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach to examine the effects of farming systems on GHG emissions intensifies across intensification gradients of smallholder farm (SHF) from four dairy potential districts in central highlands of Ethiopia. Our study findings revealed that enteric fermentation was the primary source of GHG emission and CH4 emission from enteric fermentation and manure management comprised the bulk of total emission across farms. The estimated average CF varies depending on farm systems, Global Warming Potential (GWP), and allocation methods used. When GHG emissions were allocated to multiple products using economic allocation to milk, beef, finance and insurances, the overall average CF of milk production reported was 1.91 and 2.35 kg CO2e/kg fat and protein corrected milk (FPCM), and on average 72% of total GHG emissions were allocated to milk. With regard to farm typology, rural SHF tended to have significantly higher CF per kg of milk than urban and peri-urban SHF system. Variation in milk yield explained more than 50% of the variation in GHG emission intensity at farm level. Feed digestibility and feed efficiency had a negative and significant (P < 0.01) association with CF of SHF. Our findings suggested that improved feeding by increasing the proportion of concentrate and improved forage, and chemically upgrading straw and crop residue could provide opportunity to both increase milk yield and reduce the CF of milk production of SHF in the study area. Supporting SHF to realize strategies that contribute to climate resilient dairy development will requires interventions at several level in dairy value chain.
An analysis of the relationship between ACE2 genetic polymorphisms and the severity of COVID-19 disease in adult hospitalized patients - prospective observational study
Authors: Kotfis Katarzyna , Sieńko Jerzy , Marczak Izabela , Kotowski Maciej , Bogacz Anna , Tejchman Karol , Sieńko Magdalena
Published: February 2022

Background The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) first emerged in Hubei province of China in December 2019 and spread rapidly to other parts of the world, causing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) is recognized as the host receptor used by the SARS-CoV-2 virus to enter its target cells. Recent studies suggest that ACE2 gene polymorphisms might be candidates for genetic susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of ACE2 polymorphisms on COVID-19 disease risk and severity. Results In our study we confirmed that there is a statistically significant increased risk of a more severe disease course of SARS-CoV-2 infection associated with the need for hospitalization in the intensive care unit for patients with specific polymorphisms of the ACE2 gene. The most significant correlation was found for variant ACE2 rs2285666 (AA allele, OR=2.12, p=0.0189) and ACE2 rs2074192 (TT allele, OR=2.05, p=0.0016), and also for ACE2 rs4646174 (GG allele, OR=1.93, p=0.0016), ACE2 rs4646156 (TT allele OR=1.71, p=0.008) and ACE2 rs2158083 (TT allele OR=1.84, p=0.0025). Conclusions In conclusion, our findings identify that certain ACE2 polymorphisms impact the severity of COVID-19 disease independently of other well-known risk factors.
An assessment of health risks posed by consumption of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables among residents in the Kampala Metropolitan Area in Uganda
Authors: Ssemugabo Charles , Bradman Asa , Ssempebwa John C. , Sille Fenna , Guwatudde David
Published: February 2022

Background
Pesticide use for fruits and vegetable production in Uganda may result in presence of residues on produce which may pose health risks to consumers. Uganda does not have an established system for monitoring pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables and assessing potential health risks. This research aimed to conduct a health risk assessment of presence of pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables in the Kampala Metropolitan Area in Uganda.
Method
Pesticides were measured in 160 fruits and vegetables samples collected at farms, markets, street vendors, restaurants and homes using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fruit and vegetable consumption information was collected from 2,177 people. Pesticide concentrations were compared with European Union maximum residual limits (MRLs). Mean values of pesticide concentration residues found in the sample of fruits and vegetables; and fruits and vegetables intake and body weight were used to calculate the estimated daily intake (EDI) of pesticide residues. EDI values were compared with acceptable daily intakes (ADI) to calculate the hazard quotient by age group, and stage at which consumption happens along the chain.
Results
Overall, 57 pesticides were detected in fruits and vegetables from farm to fork. Of the 57, 39 pesticides were detected in all the fruits and vegetables studied. Concentrations of fonofos, fenitrothion and fenhexamid were above the European Union MRLs in some samples. Hazard quotients based on dietary ingestion scenarios for eighteen pesticides, including dichlorvos (444) alanycarb (314), fonofos (68), fenitrothion (62), dioxacarb (55) and benfuracarb (24) and others, were above 1, indicating the possibility of chronic health risk to consumers. Chronic health risk decreased with age but was stable for stage at which consumption happens along the food chain. The number of pesticides with EDI greater than the ADI decreased with increase in age; with 18, 13, 9, 11, 8, 9, and 9 pesticides for age groups < 5, 5–12, 13–19, 20–25, 36–49 and ≥ 50 respectively.
Conclusion
Chronic dietary pesticide exposures to Ugandans are likely common, and for some pesticides result in exposure exceeding health-based benchmarks. Risks were highest for younger participants. There is an urgent need to increase monitoring and regulation of pesticides in fruits and vegetables in order to protect consumers, especially the children who are especially vulnerable to the adverse effects of pesticides.
Pan-Genome Analysis Reveals The Molecular Targets of Identification and Virulence Detection in Mucoralean Fungi
Authors: Zhang Meijie , Xu Wenqi , Mei Huan , Ge Naicen , Song Ge , Tao Ye , Liu Weida , Liang Guanzhao
Published: February 2022

Mucoralean fungi offer various pathogens to cause mucormycosis, especially in immunodeficient patients. Over the past decades, both the morbidity and mortality of mucormycosis have increased rapidly, particularly in developing countries. Nowadays, mucormycosis more often happens in India for the COVID-19 pandemic and its backward diagnostic techniques. Our epidemiologic outcomes show several identifications of Mucoralean fungi are limited to genus, while Rhizopus species, Mucor species and Lichtheimia species have high proportions. To find more molecular targets to make rapid and accurate identifications of Mucorales genus and species, Pan-genome analysis and Phylogenetic tree are conducted with four Mucorales isolates we sequenced and 43 fungi from NCBI. A few Mucorales-specific genes have been found such as STE/STE20 protein kinase, GH36 and sel1 repeat protein. Mucorales genus-specific genes are also found in Lichtheimia species and Cunninghamella species, which covered cellular structure, biochemistry metabolism, molecular processing, and signal transduction. Reported proteins related to the virulence of Mucorales species were run with Orthofinder and 112092, cotH3, gcn4 and igp1 have shown the potential to be the direct identification as well as the virulence detection of Mucorales species. The molecular biological techniques need to be promoted, for which our study provide hypothesis and feasibility analysis.
Patient perspectives on delays in cervical cancer screening and follow-up care in Botswana: a mixed methods study
Authors: Grover Surbhi , Rendle Katharine A. , Ramogola-Masire Doreen , Monare Barati , Ogden Shannon , Toneff Hannah , Saia Chelsea , Wainwright Jocelyn , Friebel-Klingner Tara , Bonner Natalie , Bazzett-Matabele Lisa , Ralefala Tlotlo B , Bhatia Rohini , Luckett Rebecca , Vuylsteke Peter
Published: February 2022

Background: Delays in screening and timely diagnosis contribute significantly to global disparities in cervical cancer mortality in Botswana and other low- and middle-income countries, particularly those with high rates of HIV. Little is known about the modifiable factors shaping these delays from the perspectives of women themselves.Methods: From March-May 2019, we conducted a concurrent, mixed methods study of patients receiving cervical cancer care in Botswana. Structured questionnaires captured beliefs and knowledge related to cervical cancer screening and HIV. Clinical data were abstracted from medical records and confirmed by participants. Semi-structured interviews examined patients’ understanding of and experiences with cervical cancer screening. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate statistics. Qualitative data were analyzed using deductive and inductive content analysis and triangulated with quantitative data to identify areas of convergence and divergence.Results: Forty-two women were interviewed, 64% of whom were living with HIV. Median age was 45 years in women living with HIV (LWH) and 64 years in those without HIV. Overall screening rates prior to symptomatic disease were low (24%). Median time from most proximal screening to diagnosis was 52 median days (IQR: 15-176), with no significant differences by HIV status. General screening knowledge was higher among women living with HIV versus those without (100% vs 73%), but knowledge about specific risk factors including HPV was low in both groups. In interviews, participants expressed limited awareness of needing to be screened prior to symptoms. Additionally, participants reported significant delays in receipt of screening results and in obtaining referrals for follow-up care. However, participants also described myriad sources of social and tangible support that helped them to overcome some of these challenges. Conclusion: Interventions focused on increasing routine screening and supporting timely awareness and access to care are needed to reduce global disparities in cervical cancer.
Alkyl Ketene Dimer Grafted Cationic Cellulose Stabilizing Nano Magnesium Oxide for Efficient Protection of Aging Paper
Authors: He Bei , Ai Jingbo , Ren Junli , Zhao Lihong , Zhao He , Liu Chuanfu , Fan Huiming
Published: February 2022

Alkyl ketene dimer grafted cationic cellulose (AKD-g-CMCC) was designed to stabilize nano magnesium oxide (MgO) in low polarity mixed solution of hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDO) and isopropanol (IPA) for protection of aging paper. The highly stable nano MgO organic colloid exhibited a small average particle size (200 nm) and low viscosity (2.26 mPa·s), which is beneficial for the efficient protection of aging paper. Evaluation results showed that properties of treated aging paper were improved. Small-size MgO (200 nm) uniformly deposited on the paper endowed the treated paper with mild pH (8.30) and sufficient alkali reserve (1.00%, calcium carbonate equivalent) for deacidification. Meanwhile, the tensile index and tear index of treated paper increased by 40.78% and 27.28%, respectively. Moreover, the treated paper presented the low chromatic aberration (∆E=0.46) and the negligible influence in the appearance and clarity of writing. Additionally, the treated paper also had the excellent anti-aging and anti-adhesion performance.
Prevalence, Correlates, And Behavioral Outcomes For Alcohol Gifting In China
Authors: Zhang Lu , Huang Lixin , Li Ying , Wu Dan
Published: February 2022

INTRODUCATION: Alcohol gifting is a very common phenomenon in China. However, little is known about the potentially adverse consequences of alcohol gifting. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with alcohol gifting and explore whether drinking and other substance use could be predicted by alcohol gifting.METHODS: Using a cross-sectional multi-stage survey, A sample of 982 household heads from Guangdong Province and 530 household heads from Shaanxi Province was collected online from 30 April to 30 July 2020 in China. Participants completed questionnaires regarding socio-demographic characteristics, social capital, drinking status, and gifting alcohol behavior. Chi-squared analysis and multiple logistic regression analysis were used to verify the key factors associated with alcohol gifting, and to identify its relationship with alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking.RESULTS: Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that age, gender, household annual income, province, drinking status, and social participation were prominent predictors for both offering and receiving alcohol. People who were married, had an education level of junior high school, and with a high social network were more inclined to receive alcohol. When two alcohol gifting behaviors were accounted for in the models, people who offered and received alcohol were 2.25 (95% CI: 1.70-2.96;) and 1.85 (95% CI: 1.43-2.38) times more likely to be a current drinker than those who did not offer and receive alcohol, respectively. Receiving alcohol has been found to significantly predict current smoking status (AOR=1.64; 95% CI: 1.25-2.14), while those who offered alcohol were less likely to be current smokers (AOR=0.71;95% CI:0.53-0.95).CONCLUSIONS: Social participation is an important correlative factor for alcohol gifting. Alcohol receiving behaviors not only predicts alcohol use but tobacco use significantly. The study data provide evidence to supports that it is necessary to further supervise and regulate alcohol gifting behavior to decrease alcohol consumption and other substance consumption.
Motivators and demotivators to accessing malaria in pregnancy interventions in sub-Saharan Africa: A meta-ethnographic review
Authors: Aberese-Ako Matilda , Doegah Phidelia , Acquah Evelyn , Magnussen Pascal , Ansah Evelyn , Ampofo Gifty Dufie , Agei Dominic Dankwah , Klu Desmond , Mottey Elsie Ewoenam , Balen Julie , Doumbo Safiatou , Mbacham Wilfred , Gaye Ouma , Gyapong Margaret , Owusu-Agyei Seth , Targbor Harry
Published: February 2022

BackgroundDespite the introduction of efficacious interventions for malaria control, sub-Saharan Africa continues to bear the highest burden of malaria and its associated effects on vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children. This meta-ethnographic review contributes to literature on malaria in pregnancy interventions in sub-Saharan Africa by offering insights into the multiple factors that motivate or demotivate women from accessing MiP interventions.MethodsA meta-ethnographic approach was used for the synthesis. Original qualitative research articles published from 2010 to November 2021 in English in sub-Saharan Africa were searched for. Articles focusing on WHO’s recommended interventions such as intermittent preventive treatment with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine, long-lasting insecticidal nets and testing and treatment of Malaria in Pregnancy (MiP) were included. Selected articles were uploaded into Nvivo 11 for thematic coding and synthesis. ResultsTwenty-seven original qualitative research articles were included in the analysis. Main factors motivating uptake of MiP interventions were: (1) well organised ANC, positive attitudes of health workers and availability of MiP services; (2) Women’s knowledge of the effects of malaria in pregnancy, previous experience of accessing responsive ANC; (3) financial resources and encouragement from partners, relatives and friends and (4) favourable weather condition and nearness to a health facility. Factors that demotivated women from using MiP services were: (1) stock-outs, ANC charges and health providers failure to provide women with ample education on the need for MiP care; (2) perception of not being at risk and the culture of self-medication; (3) fear of being bewitched if pregnancy was noticed early, women’s lack of decision making power and dependence on traditional remedies and (4) warm weather, long distances to health facilities and the style of construction of houses making it difficult to hang LLINs. ConclusionsHealth system gaps need to be strengthened in order to ensure that MiP interventions become accessible to women. Additionally, health managers need to involve communities in planning, designing and implementing malaria interventions for pregnant women. It is important that the health system engage extensively with communities to facilitate pregnant women and communities understanding of MiP interventions and the need to support pregnant women to access them.
Exploring Factors That Influence Hrqol For People Living With Parkinson’s In One Region Of Ireland; A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Cassidy Irene , Doody Owen , Meskell Pauline
Published: February 2022

Background: The diversity of symptoms associated with Parkinson’s and their impact on functioning have led to an increased interest in exploring factors that impact Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). Although the experience of Parkinson’s is unique, some symptoms have a greater impact than others, e.g. depression. Moreover, as the risk of Parkinson’s increases with age, the financial and public health impact of this condition is likely to increase with the growing aging population. In Ireland, research is ongoing in the pursuit of causes and effective treatments for Parkinson’s; however, its impact on everyday living, functioning and HRQoL is largely under examined. This study aims to describe factors that influence HRQoL for people with Parkinson’s (PwP) in one region of Ireland. Methods: A cross-sectional postal survey was conducted of people (n=208) with Parkinson’s in one region of Ireland. This survey included socio-demographic questions, Nonmotor Symptoms Questionnaire for Parkinson’s disease (NMSQuest), the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) and the Parkinson's disease Questionnaire (PDQ-39). Descriptive and inferential statistics were conducted using SPSS, IBM version 25 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, II, USA).Results: Participants reflected a predominantly older population who were married and lived in their own home (91%). Participants diagnosed the longest reported poorer HRQoL regarding mobility, activities of daily living, emotional wellbeing, social support, cognition, and communication domains and overall HRQoL. Lower HRQoL correlated with higher depression scores p<0.001 and participants in the lower HRQoL cohort experienced 2.25 times more non-motor symptoms (NMSs) than participants with higher HRQoL. Hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis predicted Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS 15) score, non-motor symptom burden, and years since diagnosis to negatively impact HRQoL. Principal component analysis also indicated that for the population in this study, components measuring 1) independence/dependence 2) stigma 3) emotional wellbeing and 4) pain were central to explaining core aspects of participants’ HRQoL.Conclusions: Findings help to achieve a deeper understanding of the effects of Parkinson’s symptoms in Ireland, and direct future research priorities to identify interventions required to support people and improve their HRQoL. This study includes data on HRQoL influences and a conceptual person-centred guide for nurses and healthcare professionals in supporting care and QoL for people living with Parkinson’s.
Specification of Policy for the Barriers to Care and Treatment of Nepali Migrants Living with HIV/AIDS in India
Authors: Sarode Sunil , Ubale Pragati , Soletti Asha Banu
Published: February 2022

Nepal is one of the friendly nations of India in the Indian subcontinent. There are no severe international conflicts between India and Nepal. Moreover, cultural commonality is also essential in sustaining friendly relations between two countries. Therefore, the migration from Nepal to India is well established and unobjectionable phenomenon. There are no restrictions and basic requirements for Nepali migrants to come to India. Nepali migrants are coming to India without their families; hence there are high chances of being involved in sex avenues due to loneliness and their reproductive age group. Thus, they are at high risk and get infected with HIV. Later on, they transfer HIV to the general population in Nepal after their return. It is imperative to control such consequences. Therefore, it is necessary to provide preventive and health care services to Nepali Migrants. Therefore, it is crucial to study the existing policies for people living with HIV/AIDS concerning health care treatment. It is equally important to study the challenges for Nepali migrants to access health care treatment due to the existing policy. There is also a need to focus on the recommendations to develop the future policy to deal with the challenges of Nepali migrants to access the health care treatment without any hindrances. In this study, the qualitative and quantitative approach was adopted to collect the data from the Nepali migrants living with HIV/AIDS. Overall 50 Nepali migrants living with HIV/AIDS were interviewed and 4 Focussed Group Discussions were conducted to elicit the in-depth knowledge on the issues of Nepali migrants living with HIV/AIDS. Apart from that, the three Key Informant Interviews of health care providers were also done to understand their perspective regarding issues of Nepali migrants living with HIV/AIDS.
Treatment of Effluents from Food Services Establishment (FSEs) by Physico-chemical Processes: A Case Study for Trinidad & Tobago
Authors: Cudjoe Shamika , GOUTAM BANERJEE , VINCENT COOPER
Published: February 2022

In Trinidad & Tobago, it is estimated that approximately 231,304 kg/day of unaccounted for FOG-bearing wastewaters from Food Establishments, are released into the environment with no method of viable treatment in the country. This seeks to find a financially viable and optimal physico-chemical processes for the treatment of emulsified FOGs, for subsequent release into the environment. Bench-scale studies analysed the characteristics of FSE’s effluents from three popular sources, studied the treatment using Jar Tests experiments, and subsequent pilot plant study. The mean concentration of constituents in the FSEs’ samples were FOG (511 mg/l ± 116 mg/l), Suspended Solids (446 mg/l ± 146 mg/l), Chemical Oxygen Demand (2229 mg/l ± 963 mg/l) and pH (6 ± 0.3). Jar Tests were conducted using Poly-aluminium Chloride (PACl) as coagulant, anionic and cationic polyelectrolytes as flocculant aids with suitable pH adjustments of samples to determine the isoelectric point for the coagulant. FOG removal levels of 99.9% resulted in a final effluent concentration of 0.17 mg/l, which was within the regulatory standard of 20 mg/l. Required conditions were a PACl concentration of 250 mg/l, followed by flocculation aid with 4 mg/l of 0.1% low cationic polyelectrolyte (CP 1154) at pH adjusted to 8, and post-sedimentation for thirty minutes. The Jar test results were used as the basis for the design of a pilot-scale treatment plant. The plant achieved a 97.4% removal of FOG (residual of 16.8 mg/l) using 0.1% medium cationic polyelectrolyte (CP1156) and pre- and post-sedimentation times of 120 minutes, and 360 minutes, respectively.
Materials Informatics Approach Using Domain Modelling For Exploring Structure-Property Relationships Of Polymers
Authors: Hara Koki , Yamada Shunji , Kurotani Atsushi , Chikayama Eisuke , Kikuchi Jun
Published: February 2022

In the development of polymer materials, it is an important issue to explore the complex relationships between domain structure and physical properties. In the domain structure analysis of polymer materials, 1H-static solid-state NMR (ssNMR) spectra can provide information on mobile, rigid, and intermediate domains. But estimation of domain structure from its analysis is difficult due to the wide overlap of spectra from multiple domains. Therefore, we have developed a materials informatics approach that combines the domain modeling (http://dmar.riken.jp/matrigica/) and the integrated analysis of meta-information (the elements, functional groups, additives, and physical properties) in polymer materials. Firstly, the 1H-static ssNMR data of 120 polymer materials were subjected to a short-time Fourier transform to obtain frequency, intensity, and T2 relaxation time for domains with different mobility. The average T2 relaxation time of each domain is 0.96 ms for Mobile, 0.55 ms for Intermediate (Mobile), 0.32 ms for Intermediate (Rigid), and 0.11 ms for Rigid. Secondly, the estimated domain proportions were integrated with meta-information such as elements, functional group and thermophysical properties and was analyzed using a self-organization map and market basket analysis. This proposed method can contribute to explore structure-property relationships of polymer materials with multiple domains.
Synergistic Interactions of Repurposed Drugs that Inhibit Nsp1, a Major Virulence Factor for COVID-19
Authors: Kao Hung-Teh , Orry Andrew , Palfreyman Michael , Porton Barbara
Published: February 2022

Nsp1 is the first protein expressed from the SARS-CoV-2 genome and is a major virulence factor for COVID -19. A rapid multiplexed assay for detecting the action of Nsp1 was developed in cultured lung cells. The assay is based on the acute cytopathic effects induced by Nsp1. Virtual screening was used to stratify compounds that interact with two functional Nsp1 sites: the RNA-binding groove and C-terminal helix-loop-helix region. Experimental screening focused on compounds that could be readily repurposed to treat COVID-19. Multiple synergistic combinations of compounds that significantly inhibited Nsp1 action were identified. Among the most promising combinations are Ponatinib, Rilpivirine, and Montelukast, which together, reversed the toxic effects of Nsp1 to the same extent as null mutations in the Nsp1 gene.
Whey protein improves glycemia during an oral glucose tolerance test compared to vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise in young adult men
Authors: Gordon Ryan A , Zumbro Emily L , Castleberry Todd J , Sokoloski Matthew L , Brisebois Matthew F , Irvine Christopher J , Duplanty Anthony A , Ben-Ezra Vic
Published: February 2022

Background: Both aerobic exercise and whey protein can improve glucose regulation. The purpose of this study was to investigate how a single bout of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise and whey protein, independently, as well as when combined, influence glycemia during an oral glucose tolerance test in sedentary, young men.Methods: Healthy males (n = 11) completed four randomized trials: no exercise/no whey protein (R); exercise (EX; walking at 70% VO2max for 60 min); 50 g of whey protein (W); and exercise combined with 50 g of whey protein (EXW). Each trial included a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) that was completed after an overnight fast, and blood samples were collected over a two-hour period during the OGTT. For EX and EXW, the exercise bout was performed the evening before the OGTT. Additionally, for W and EXW, the 50 g of whey protein was consumed as a preload 30 minutes prior to the OGTT. Plasma samples were analyzed for glucose, insulin, C-peptide, glucagon, gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) and glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and postprandial incremental area under the curve (iAUC) was calculated for each. Results: Glucose iAUC was reduced during W (-32.9 ± 22.3 mmol/L) compared to R (122.7 ± 29.8 mmol/L; p < 0.01) and EX (154.3 ± 29.2 mmol/L; p < 0.01). Similarly, glucose iAUC was reduced for EXW (17.4 ± 28.9 mmol/L) compared to R and EX (p < 0.01 for both). There were no differences in iAUC for insulin, C-peptide, GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon between the four trials. Insulin, C-peptide, glucagon, GIP, and GLP-1 were elevated during the whey protein preload period for W and EXW compared to EX and R (p < 0.01). There were no differences for insulin, C-peptide, glucagon, GIP, or GLP-1 between trials for the remaining duration of the OGTT.Conclusions: Glucose responses during an oral glucose tolerance test were improved for W compared to EX. There were no additional improvements in glucose responses when vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise was combined with whey protein (EXW).