bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles of natural resources, globalization, and technological innovations in mitigation of environmental degradation in BRI economies
Authors: Majeed Abdul , Ye Chengang , Chenyun Ye , Wei Xu , Muniba
Published: June 2022

The environmental issue has become a global problem that needs to be examined frequently, motivating researchers to investigate it. Thus, the present study has investigated the asymmetric impact of natural resources, technological innovation, and globalization on the ecological footprint in the presence of environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) economies. This research divided the BRI economies into high income, middle-income, and low-income levels to capture income differences. The study has used annual time series data from 1990 to 2018. The study applied a novel Augmented Mean Group estimators method to calculate the robust and reliable outcomes. The findings show that natural resources drastically damage the environment quality, whereas technological innovations are helpful in reducing environmental degradation. Moreover, the result of the interaction term (natural resources and technological innovations) negatively impacts the ecological footprint. Interestingly, these findings are similar in the three income groups. In addition, globalization improves environmental quality in the middle-income BRI economies but reduces in high-income, low-income, and full sample countries. Furthermore, the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) concept has been validated across all BRI economies. In line with these findings, several relevant policies are recommended for a sustainable environment in the BRI economies.
Resveratrol inhibits the inflammatory response and oxidative stress induced by uterine ischemia reperfusion injury by activating PI3K-AKT pathway
Authors: Wang Ying , Wu Yong , Peng Shu
Published: June 2022

Uterus transplantation is a complex surgical procedure. Uterine ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury that occurs during this process may cause a loss of function of the uterus and the failure of transplantation. Resveratrol (RSV) is a naturally occurring polyphenol found abundantly in the skin of grapes and red wine, and it has also been used as a dietary supplement in clinical practice. RSV possesses strong anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects, and exhibits a role in immune system regulation. However, the role of RSV in protecting the uterus against I/R-induced injury is yet to be fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms underlying RSV in I/R-induced uterus injury. A total of 48 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups: Control (sham operation) group, the uterus I/R group, the 20 mg/kg RSV-pre-treated I/R (I/R+RSV/20) group and the 40 mg/kg RSV-pre-treated I/R (I/R+ RSV/40) group. A regular I/R model was established to induce uterus injury in rats. RSV at 20 or 40 mg/kg was intraperitoneally administrated into rats in both I/R+ RSV groups once per day for five consecutive days prior to ischemia. The control and I/R only groups received an intraperitoneal injection of the vehicle (ethanol) for the same period prior to ischemia. Samples from blood and uterine horns were collected 3 h after reperfusion. Changes in the levels of malondialdehyde, interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-10 and IL-37 were determined using ELISA, the activity levels of myeloperoxidase, catalase, and superoxidase dismutase were also determined using ELISA, the protein expression levels of PI3K, phosphorylated (p)-PI3K, AKT and p-AKT were determined using western blot analysis, and the uterine histology was investigated using H&E staining. Results of the present study demonstrated that treatment with RSV increased the capacity of antioxidants and suppressed uterine oxidative injury induced by I/R. Moreover, treatment with RSV decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, RSV promoted the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT, thus activating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. Therefore, administration of RSV prior to uterine I/R effectively alleviated inflammatory response and oxidative stress via activation of the PI3K-AKT pathway, suggesting that RSV may play a protective role in I/R-induced uterus injury.
Implementing a smoking cessation intervention for people experiencing homelessness: Participants’ preferences, feedback, and satisfaction with the ‘power to quit’ program
Authors: Odukoya Oluwakemi Ololade , Abdiwahab Ekland A. , Olubodun Tope , Azagba Sunday , Ogunsola Folasade Tolulope , Okuyemi Kolawole S.
Published: June 2022

Background

Smoking rates among populations experiencing homelessness are three times higher than in the general population. Developing smoking cessation interventions for people experiencing homelessness is often challenging. Understanding participant perceptions of such interventions may provide valuable insights for intervention development and implementation. We assessed participants’ satisfaction and preferences for the Power to Quit (PTQ) program.

Methods

PTQ was a 26-week community-based smoking-cessation RCT among people experiencing homelessness. A total of 315 of the 430 enrolled participants completed the 26 week-study feedback survey. Overall program satisfaction was measured on a 5-point Likert scale by asking the question “Overall, how satisfied were you with the Power to Quit Program?” Analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with overall program satisfaction.

Results

Participants were mostly male (74.9%), African American (59.0%), 40 years and older (78.2%), and not married or living with a partner (94.9%). Visa gift cards were the most preferred incentive followed by bus tokens and Subway restaurant coupons. The patch and counseling were the top-ranked intervention component, 55.3% rated the patch as very helpful; 59.4% felt counseling sessions was very helpful; 48.6% found reminder phone calls or messages most helpful for appointment reminders. Majority (78.7%) said they were very satisfied overall, 80.0% were very satisfied with the program schedule, and 85.4% were very satisfied with program staff. Race and age at smoking initiation were predictors of overall program satisfaction. African American/Black participants were 1.9 times more likely to be satisfied with the program compared to White participants.

Conclusion

Majority of the participants of PTQ were satisfied with the program. This study supports the acceptability of a smoking cessation program implemented in a population experiencing homelessness. The high rate of satisfaction among African American participants may be in part because of race concordance between participants, study staff, and community advisory board. Including staff that have a shared lived experience with participants in a smoking cessation study may improve the participant satisfaction within such studies.
Subtype-specific expression of MELK is partly due to copy number alterations in breast cancer
Authors: Hardeman Ashley A. , Han Yoo Jane , Grushko Tatyana A. , Mueller Jeffrey , Gomez Maria J. , Zheng Yonglan , Olopade Olufunmilayo I.
Published: June 2022

Maternal embryonic leucine-zipper kinase (MELK) regulates cell cycle progression and is highly expressed in many cancers. The molecular mechanism of MELK dysregulation has not been determined in aggressive forms of breast cancer, such as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). To evaluate molecular markers of MELK aberrations in aggressive breast cancer, we assessed MELK gene amplification and expression in breast tumors. MELK mRNA expression is highly up-regulated in basal-like breast cancer (BLBC), the major molecular subtype of TNBC, compared to luminal or other subtypes of breast tumors. MELK copy number (CN) gains are significantly associated with BLBC, whereas no significant association of CpG site methylation or histone modifications with breast cancer subtypes was observed. Accordingly, the CN gains appear to contribute to an increase in MELK expression, with a significant correlation between mRNA expression and CN in breast tumors and cell lines. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays revealed that both nuclear and cytoplasmic staining scores of MELK were significantly higher in invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) tumors compared to ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and normal breast tissues. Our data showed that upregulation of MELK in BLBC may be in part driven by CN gains, rather than epigenetic modifications, indicating a potential for overexpression and CN gains of MELK to be developed as a diagnostic and prognostic marker to identify patients who have more aggressive breast cancer.
Spatiotemporal variation of potential evapotranspiration and its dominant factors during 1970−2020 across the Sichuan-Chongqing region, China
Authors: Zheng Qingzhou , He Jun , Qin Mengsheng , Wu Xia , Liu Tiantian , Huang Xiaolin
Published: June 2022

Analyzing the primary factors of potential evapotranspiration (PET) dynamic is fundamental to accurately estimating crop yield, evaluating environmental impacts, and understanding water and carbon cycles. Previous studies have focused on regionally average regional PET and its dominant factors. Spatial distributions of PET trends and their main causes have not been fully investigated. The Mann–Kendall test was used to determine the significance of long-term trends in PET and five meteorological factors (net radiation, wind speed, air temperature, vapor pressure deficit, relative humidity) at 56 meteorological stations in the Sichuan-Chongqing region from 1970 to 2020. Furthermore, this present study combining and quantitatively illustrated sensitivities and contributions of the meteorological factors to change in annual and seasonal PET. There was a positive trend in PET for approximately 58%, 68%, 38%, 73% and 73% of all surveyed stations at annual, spring, summer, autumn and winter, respectively. Contribution analysis exhibited that the driving factors for the PET variation varied spatially and seasonally. For stations with an upward PET trend, vapor pressure deficit was a dominant factor at all time scales. For stations with a downward PET trend, annual changes in PET mainly resulted from decreased wind speed, as did changes in spring, autumn and winter; decreasing net radiation was the dominant factor in summer. The positive effect of the vapor pressure deficit offset the negative effects of wind speed and net radiation, leading to the increasing PET in this area as a whole. Sensitivity analysis showed that net radiation and relative humidity were the two most sensitive variables for PET, followed by vapor pressure deficit in this study area. Results from the two mathematical approaches were not perfect match, because the change magnitude of the meteorological factors is also responsible for the effects of meteorological factors on PET variation to some extent. However, conducting sensitivity and contribution analysis in this study can avoid the uncertainties from using a single method and provides detailed and well-understood information for interpreting the influence of global climate change on the water cycle and improving local water management.
Increasing incidence of reported scabies infestations in the Netherlands, 2011–2021
Authors: van Deursen Babette , Hooiveld Mariëtte , Marks Susan , Snijdewind Ingrid , van den Kerkhof Hans , Wintermans Bas , Bom Ben , Schimmer Barbara , Fanoy Ewout
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Several Public Health Services and general practitioners in the Netherlands observed an increase in scabies in the Netherlands. Since individual cases of scabies are not notifiable in the Netherlands, the epidemiological situation is mostly unknown. To investigate the scabies incidence in the Netherlands, we described the epidemiology of scabies between 2011 and 2021.

Methods

Two national data sources were analysed descriptively. One data source obtained incidence data of scabies (per 1,000 persons) of persons consulting in primary care from 2011–2020. The other data source captured the number of prescribed scabicides in the Netherlands from 2011–2021. To describe the correlation between the incidence of diagnoses and the number of dispensations between 2011 and 2020, we calculated a correlation coefficient.

Results

The incidence of reported scabies has increased by more than threefold the last decade (2011–2020), mainly affecting adolescents and (young) adults. This was also clearly reflected in the fivefold increase in dispensations of scabicide medication during 2011–2021. The incidence and dispensations were at an all-time high in 2021. We found a strong correlation between the reported incidence and the number of dispensations between 2011 and 2020.

Conclusions

More awareness on early diagnosis, proper treatment and treatment of close contacts is needed.
Evaluation of a commercial SARS-CoV-2 multiplex PCR genotyping assay for variant identification in resource-scarce settings
Authors: Umunnakwe Chijioke N. , Makatini Zinhle N. , Maphanga Mathapelo , Mdunyelwa Anele , Mlambo Khamusi M. , Manyaka Puseletso , Nijhuis Monique , Wensing Annemarie , Tempelman Hugo A.
Published: June 2022

The rapid emergence and spread of numerous severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants across the globe underscores the crucial need for continuous SARS-CoV-2 surveillance to ensure that potentially more pathogenic variants are detected early and contained. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is currently the gold standard for COVID-19 surveillance; however, it remains cost-prohibitive and requires specialized technical skills. To increase surveillance capacity, especially in resource-scarce settings, supplementary methods that are cost- and time-effective are needed. Real-time multiplex PCR genotyping assays offer an economical and fast solution for screening circulating and emerging variants while simultaneously complementing existing WGS approaches. In this study we evaluated the AllplexTMSARS-CoV-2 Variants II multiplex real-time PCR genotyping assay, Seegene (South Korea), and implemented it in retrospectively characterizing circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants in a rural South African setting between April and October 2021, prior to the emergence of the Omicron variant in South Africa. The AllplexTMSARS-CoV-2 Variants II real-time PCR assay demonstrated perfect concordance with whole-genome sequencing in detecting Beta and Delta variants and exhibited high specificity, sensitivity and reproducibility. Implementation of the assay in characterization of SARS-CoV-2 variants between April and October 2021 in a rural South African setting revealed a rapid shift from the Beta to the Delta variant between April and June. All specimens successfully genotyped in April were Beta variants and the Delta variant was not detected until May. By June, 78% of samples genotyped were Delta variants and in July >95% of all genotyped samples were Delta variants. The Delta variant continued to predominate through to the end of our analysis in October 2021. Taken together, a commercial SARS-CoV-2 variant genotyping assay detected the rapid rate at which the Delta variant displaced the Beta variant in Limpopo, an under-monitored province in South Africa. Such assays provide a quick and cost-effective method of monitoring circulating variants and should be used to complement genomic sequencing for COVID-19 surveillance especially in resource-scarce settings.
The good, the bad, and the mixed: Experiences during COVID-19 among an online sample of adults
Authors: Mills Devin J. , Petrovic Julia , Mettler Jessica , Hamza Chloe A. , Heath Nancy L.
Published: June 2022

Studies have outlined the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic to psychological health. However, the potential within-individual diversity of experiences during COVID-19, and how such experiences relate to indices of psychological distress and COVID-19-specific stressors, remains to be explored. A large online sample of American MTurk Workers (N = 3,731; Mage = 39.54 years, SD = 13.12; 51.70% female) completed short assessments of psychological distress, COVID-19-specific stressors (e.g., wage loss, death), and seven items assessing negative and positive COVID-19 experiences. Latent profile analyses were used to identify underlying profiles of COVID-19 experiences. A four-profile solution was retained representing profiles that were: (1) predominantly positive (n = 839; 22.49%), (2) predominantly negative (n = 849; 22.76%), (3) moderately mixed (n = 1,748; 46.85%), and (4) high mixed (n = 295; 7.91%). The predominantly positive profile was associated with lower psychological distress, whereas both the predominantly negative and high mixed profiles were associated with higher psychological distress. Interestingly, specific COVID-19 stressful events were associated with the high mixed profile. The present study challenges the narrative that the impacts of COVID-19 have been unilaterally negative. Future directions for research are proposed.
Time to death from cervical cancer and predictors among cervical cancer patients in Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North West Ethiopia: Facility-based retrospective follow-up study
Authors: Mebratie Andamlak Eskale , Moges Nurilign Abebe , Meselu Belsity Temesgen , Melesse Misganaw Fikrie
Published: June 2022

Introduction

A sexually transmitted virus called the Human Papillomavirus is responsible for more than 99% of cervical cancer cases and its precursors. In 2019, the median survival time of cervical cancer patients at 5 years was 37 months. The survival time and predictors of death from cervical cancer vary in different study settings. This study was aimed to assess the time to death and to identify the major predictors of death of cervical cancer patients in Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.

Methods

A facility-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted among 422 randomly selected cervical cancer patients in Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from 25th June 2017 to 31st March 2021. Data were extracted from the sampled patient charts by using a structured checklist which was prepared in an English version. Data were coded and then entered, edited, and cleaned using EPI-data 3.1 and exported to STATA14.2 statistical software for analysis. Frequencies and proportions were used to describe the study population with relevant variables and were presented using tables, pie charts, and graphs. Kaplan Meier and life table were used to describe the restricted mean survival time and the overall survival rates. Differences in survival among different variables were compared using the log-rank test. The assumption of proportional hazard was checked using Schoenfeld residual test. Variables having a P-value > 0.05 were considered as fulfilling the assumption. Variables with a significance level below 0.2 in the bivariable Cox regression model were included in a multivariable Cox regression model analysis, where Variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval. Model fitness was checked by Cox-Snell residual.

Results

The mean follow up time of this cohort was 27.66 (CI: 26.96, 28.36) months, and the restricted mean survival time of cervical cancer patients in this study was 40.21 (95% CI: 38.95, 41.47) months. Being FIGO stage IV [AHR = 6.10, 95% CI: 2.18, 16.90)], having adenocarcinoma [AHR = 3.12, 95% CI: 1.34, 7.28)], having co-morbidity [AHR = 2.57, 95% CI: 1.29, 5.11)], and being initiated with radiotherapy [AHR = 4.57, 95% CI: 1.60, 13.06)] were a significant predictors of death from cervical cancer.

Conclusion

The restricted mean survival time of cervical cancer patients in this study was 40.21 months. Marital status, type of tumor histology, stage of disease, type of treatment initiated, and presence of co-morbidity were significant predictors of death for cervical cancer. Treatment of comorbidities in the early stage of cervical cancer plays a key role in maximizing the survival time of cervical cancer patients.
TRR: Target-relation regulated network for sequential recommendation
Authors: Di Weiqiang , Wu ZhiHao , Lin Youfang
Published: June 2022

Item co-occurrence is an important pattern in recommendation. Due to the difference in correlation, the matching degrees between the target and historical items vary. The higher the matching degree, the greater probability they co-occur. Recently, the recommendation performance has been greatly improved by leveraging item relations. As an important bond imposed by relations, these connected items should have a strong correlation in the calculation of certain measures. This kind of correlation can be the biased knowledge that benefits parameter training. Specifically, we focus on tuples containing the target item and latest relational items that have relations such as complement or substitute with the target item in user’s behavior sequence. Such close relations mean the matching degrees between relational items and historical items should be highly affected by that of the target item and historical items. For example, given a relational item having relation complement with the target item, if the target item has high matching degrees with some items in user’s behavior sequence, this complementary item should behave similarly for the co-occurrence of complementary items. Under guidance of the above thought, in this work, we propose a target-relation regulated mechanism which converts the biased knowledge of high correlation of matching degrees into a regulation. It integrates the target item and relational items in history as a whole to characterize the matching score between the target item and historical items. Experiments conducted on three real-world datasets demonstrate that our model can significantly outperform a set of state-of-the-art models.
Inter-limb asymmetry in youth elite soccer players: Effect of loading conditions
Authors: Ascenzi Giampiero , Filetti Cristoforo , Di Salvo Valter , Nuñez F. Javier , Suarez-Arrones Luis , Ruscello Bruno , Francioni Fabio Massimo , Villanueva Alberto Mendez
Published: June 2022

The presence of inter-limb asymmetries can influence strength performance and represent an injury risk factor for team sport athletes. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of changes in resistance loads using different assessment modalities on the magnitude and the direction of inter-limb asymmetry within the same leg. Fifteen young elite soccer players from the same professional academy performed rear-foot-elevated-split-squat-test at different loading conditions (body mass with no overload, 25% of body mass, 50% of body mass 50%), isokinetic knee flexor (concentric 30°·s-1, concentric 60°·s-1, eccentric 90°·s-1) and extensor (concentric 60°·s-1, eccentric 60°·s-1). The outcomes from the agreement analyses suggested moderate level agreement between body mass vs body mass 25% (Kappa = 0.46), with no agreement or fair agreement for the other between-assessment comparison. Our results demonstrated that the magnitude and direction of within-limb strength imbalances were inconsistent when compared within the same assessment under different resistance load conditions.
Peripheral intravenous catheter insertion and use of ultrasound in patients with difficult intravenous access: Australian patient and practitioner perspectives to inform future implementation strategies
Authors: Schults Jessica A. , Calleja Pauline , Slaughter Eugene , Paterson Rebecca , Rickard Claire M. , Booker Catriona , Marsh Nicole , Fenn Mary , Kelly Jenny , Snelling Peter J. , Byrnes Joshua , Keijzers Gerben , Cooke Marie
Published: June 2022

Objective

To understand healthcare worker and patient experience with peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion in patients with difficult intravenous access (DIVA) including the use of ultrasound (US).

Methods

Descriptive study using 1-on-1 semi-structured interviews conducted between August 2020 and January 2021. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit healthcare practitioners (HCPs) and patients with DIVA who had PIVC experience. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Interview data were than mapped to the implementation theory Behaviour Change Wheel to inform implementation strategies.

Results

In total 78 interviews (13 patients; 65 HCPs) were completed with respondents from metropolitan (60%), regional (25%) and rural/remote (15%) settings across Australia. Thematic analysis revealed 4 major themes: i) Harmful patient experiences persist, with patient insights not leveraged to effect change; ii) ‘Escalation’ is just a word on the front lines; iii) Heightened risk of insertion failure without resources and training; and iv) Paving the way forward–‘measures need to be in place to prevent failed insertion attempts. Themes were mapped to the behaviour change wheel and implementation strategies developed, these included: staff education, e-health record for DIVA identification, DIVA standard of care and DIVA guidelines to support escalation and ultrasound use.

Conclusion(s)

DIVA patients continue to have poor healthcare experiences with PIVC insertion. There is poor standardisation of DIVA assessment, escalation, US use and clinician education across hospitals. Quality, safety, and education improvement opportunities exist to improve the patient with DIVA experience and prevent traumatic insertions. We identified a number of implementation strategies to support future ultrasound and DIVA pathway implementation.
The association between body mass index and all-cause mortality in Japanese patients with incident hemodialysis
Authors: Inagaki Koji , Tawada Naoto , Takanashi Masahiro , Akahori Toshiyuki
Published: June 2022

Background

A higher body mass index (BMI) has been associated with better survival among chronic kidney disease patients in some reports. However, more research is required to determine the associations between BMI and mortality in incident hemodialysis patients. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between mortality and BMI measured at the first hemodialysis session and 2 weeks after hemodialysis initiation in Japanese patients with incident hemodialysis.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 266 adult patients with incident hemodialysis who were treated at our hospital between May 2013 and June 2019. The data on BMI was obtained at the first hemodialysis session and 2 weeks after hemodialysis initiation. Patients were divided into tertiles based on BMI [<18.5 (low), 18.5–23.9 (normal), and ≥24 (high) kg/m2]. The normal group was used as the reference group. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality.

Results

The mean age of patient was 68.9 ± 12.0 years, and the BMI was 23.3 ± 4.24 kg/m2 at the first hemodialysis session. The body mass index was 22.0 ± 3.80 kg/m2 at 2 weeks after hemodialysis initiation. During a mean follow-up of 3.89 ± 2.12 years, 80 (30.1%) deaths occurred. In multivariate analyses, low BMI at the first hemodialysis session was significantly associated with worse all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 2.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.13–5.03). At 2 weeks after hemodialysis initiation, high BMI was significantly associated with better all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.18–0.81).

Conclusion

At 2 weeks after HD initiation, high BMI was associated with lower mortality in Japanese patients with incident hemodialysis.
Understanding of front of package nutrition labels: Guideline daily amount and warning labels in Mexicans with non-communicable diseases
Authors: Sagaceta-Mejía Janine , Tolentino-Mayo Lizbeth , Cruz-Casarrubias Carlos , Nieto Claudia , Barquera Simón
Published: June 2022

One strategy for the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is the implementation of the front-of-pack labeling (FoPL) in foods and beverages. In 2020, Mexico adopted the warning label system (WL) as a new public health policy, whose aim is to help consumers make healthier food choices. Previously, the Guideline Daily Amount (GDA) was the labelling used it. This paper aims to compare the understanding of two FoPL, the GDA and the WL, through the identification of unhealthy products in Mexicans with NCDs. We analyzed data from 14,880 Mexican adults older than 20 years old with NCDs (overweight-obesity (OW/O), self-reported diabetes mellitus 2 (DM2), or/and hypertension (HT), or/and dyslipidemia (Dys)). Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the GDA labeling or WL. Each group had to respond to a survey and had to classify food products images as healthy or unhealthy according to the labelling system to which they were assigned. The correct classification was determined according to the criteria of Chile’s labeling nutrient profile stage 3. To evaluate the correct classification in each one of the groups we evaluated the differences in proportions. Logistic regression models were used to assess the likelihood to correctly classify the product according to participants’ number of diseases and WL information, taking GDA label as a reference. Participants who used the information contained in the GDA label misclassified food product labels in greater proportion (70%), mostly participants with three or more NCDs (participants with OW/O+ HT+ Dys, represent 42.3% of this group); compared with those who used WL (50%). The odds of correct classification of food products using WL image were two times greater compared to GDA image in participants with NCDs; being greater in participants with three or more NCDs. The study results highlight the usefulness of WL as it helps Mexicans with NCDs to classify unhealthy food products more adequately compared with GDA.
Metagenomic analysis of the gut microbiota in piglets either challenged or not with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli reveals beneficial effects of probiotics on microbiome composition, resistome, digestive function and oxidative stress responses
Authors: Apiwatsiri Prasert , Pupa Pawiya , Sirichokchatchawan Wandee , Sawaswong Vorthon , Nimsamer Pattaraporn , Payungporn Sunchai , Hampson David J. , Prapasarakul Nuvee
Published: June 2022

This study used metagenomic analysis to investigate the gut microbiota and resistome in piglets that were or were not challenged with enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC) and had or had not received dietary supplementation with microencapsulated probiotics. The 72 piglets belonged to six groups that were either non-ETEC challenged (groups 1–3) or ETEC challenged (receiving 5ml of 109CFU/ml pathogenic ETEC strain L3.2 one week following weaning at three weeks of age: groups 4–6). On five occasions at 2, 5, 8, 11, and 14 days of piglet age, groups 2 and 5 were supplemented with 109CFU/ml of multi-strain probiotics (Lactiplantibacillus plantarumstrains 22F and 25F, andPediococcus acidilactici72N) while group 4 received 109CFU/ml ofP.acidilactici72N. Group 3 received 300mg/kg chlortetracycline in the weaner diet to mimic commercial conditions. Rectal faecal samples were obtained for metagenomic and resistome analysis at 2 days of age, and at 12 hours and 14 days after the timing of post-weaning challenge with ETEC. The piglets were all euthanized at 42 days of age. The piglets in groups 2 and 5 were enriched with several desirable microbial families, includingLactobacillaceae,LachnospiraceaeandRuminococcaceae, while piglets in group 3 had increases in members of theBacteroidaceaefamily and exhibited an increase intetWandtetQgenes. Group 5 had less copper and multi-biocide resistance. Mobile genetic elements IncQ1 and IncX4 were the most prevalent replicons in antibiotic-fed piglets. Only groups 6 and 3 had the integrase gene (intl) class 2 and 3 detected, respectively. The insertion sequence (IS) 1380 was prevalent in group 3. IS3 and IS30, which are connected to dietary intake, were overrepresented in group 5. Furthermore, only group 5 showed genes associated with detoxification, with enrichment of genes associated with oxidative stress, glucose metabolism, and amino acid metabolism compared to the other groups. Overall, metagenomic analysis showed that employing a multi-strain probiotic could transform the gut microbiota, reduce the resistome, and boost genes associated with food metabolism.
Language processing in Internet use disorder: Task-based fMRI study
Authors: Darnai Gergely , Perlaki Gábor , Orsi Gergely , Arató Ákos , Szente Anna , Horváth Réka , Áfra Eszter , Nagy Szilvia Anett , Kovács Norbert , Dóczi Tamás , Janszky József
Published: June 2022

Internet use disorder (IUD) is generally conceptualized as a fast-growing behavioral addiction. Several structural and functional brain alterations have been revealed in this condition, but previous behavioral studies indicated that language systems may also be impaired. We used a silent word generation task to induce brain activation in Broca’s area and other parts of the language system. Blood-oxygen-level-dependent activation analysis and psychophysiological interaction analysis were applied to assess functional brain changes. IUD was measured by the Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire and two additional questions concerning usage time and subjective rating of addiction. According to our key findings, areas strongly related to the default mode network were altered in IUD during the task. Moreover, Broca’s area showed altered functional connectivity with other language network and occipital areas in IUD. These findings may address the neural background of decreased verbal fluency performance previously reported in the literature, and we emphasize that beside the brain’s reward and inhibitory control systems, the language system is the next candidate to be involved in the pathogenesis of IUD.
Pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of two imidocarb formulations in cattle after subcutaneous injection
Authors: Wang Honglei , Chen Chen , Liu Maolin , Chen Xiaojie , Liu Chunshuang , Feng Yanyan , Yan Xinbo , Liu Yiming , Li Xiubo
Published: June 2022

Imidocarb (IMD) is commonly used for treatment of eperythrozoon, babesia, piroplasma and trypanosoma in animals, but there are few studies on its pharmacokinetics in cattle. The purpose of this study was to obtain pharmacokinetic parameters and assess the bioequivalence of subcutaneous injections of two IMD formulations in cattle. Forty-eight healthy cattle, 24 males and 24 females, were randomLy divided into two groups (test group and reference group) with 12 males and 12 females per group. The generic IMD was injected subcutaneously with a single dose of 3.0 mg/kg in the test group. Reference group animals were given one injection of the marketed IMD at the same dosage. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for IMD in cattle plasma were 0.05 ng/mL and 0.1 ng/mL, respectively. The recoveries ranged from 88.50% to 92.42%, and the equation of this calibration curve was Y = 13672.1X+187.43. The pharmacokinetics parameters of the test group showed that the maximum concentration of 2257.5±273.62 ng/mL was obtained at 2.14±0.67 h, AUC0-t 14553.95±1946.85 ng·h/mL, AUC∞ 15077.88±1952.19 ng·h/mL, T1/2 31.77±25.75 h, CL/F 0.14±0.02 mL/h/g, and Vz/F 6.53±5.34 mL/g. There was no significant difference in AUC0-t, AUC∞ and Cmax between the test group and the reference group (P>0.05). The 90% confidence interval of AUC0-t, AUC0-∞ and Cmax in the test group was included in 80%–125% AUC0-t, AUC0-∞ and 70%–143% Cmax in the reference group, respectively. Based on these results, the two preparations were found to be bioequivalent.
How language skills and working memory capacities explain mathematical learning from preschool to primary school age: Insights from a longitudinal study
Authors: Viesel-Nordmeyer Nurit , Röhm Alexander , Starke Anja , Ritterfeld Ute
Published: June 2022

Between the age span of 3 to 6 years the foundation for children’s mathematical learning (i.e., numerical abilities and cognition) are laid. However, the developing relations between mathematical skills, language, and working memory starting at preschool age and evolving into primary school age are not well understood. Adopting an empirically validated analysis model, the present study examines in detail longitudinal interdependencies between mathematical skills, a wide range of language skills, and working memory components underlying the mathematical learning process of 41 German preschool children (41.5% female) spanning ages 4 to 6. Phonological processing skills and expressive grammar skills emerged as the most significant language skills for the process of children’s mathematical learning across the investigated age span. Within the latter, children’s phonological processing skills and expressive grammar skills were supported by children’s word expression abilities. The phonological loop emerged as the most important working memory component for children’s early mathematical learning between ages 4 to 6. Furthermore, a wide array of language skills were associated with complex information and storage processes within this mathematical learning process. In conclusion, the present findings provide a more detailed and deeper insight into the learning process of children’s number concept, emphasizing the influence of phonological and particularly grammatical skills.
Trpc6 gain-of-function disease mutation enhances phosphatidylserine exposure in murine platelets
Authors: Boekell Kimber L. , Brown Brittney J. , Talbot Brianna E. , Schlondorff Johannes S.
Published: June 2022

Platelets enhance coagulation by exposing phosphatidylserine (PS) on their cell surface in response to strong agonist activation. Transient receptor potential channels, including TRPC6, have been implicated in the calcium influx central to this process. Here, we characterize the effect of a Trpc6 gain-of-function (GOF) disease-associated, and a dominant negative (DN), mutation on murine platelet activation. Platelets from mice harboring Trpc6E896K/E896K (GOF) and Trpc6DN/DN mutations were subject to in vitro analysis. Trpc6E896K/E896K and Trpc6DN/DN mutant platelets show enhanced and absent calcium influx, respectively, upon addition of the TRPC3/6 agonist GSK1702934A (GSK). GSK was sufficient to induce integrin αIIbβ3 activation, P-selection and PS exposure, talin cleavage, and MLC2 phosphorylation in Trpc6E896K/E896K, but not in wild-type, platelets. Thrombin-induced calcium influx and PS exposure were enhanced, and clot retraction delayed, by GOF TRPC6, while no differences were noted between wild-type and Trpc6DN/DN platelets. In contrast, Erk activation upon GSK treatment was absent in Trpc6DN/DN, and enhanced in Trpc6E896K/E896K, platelets, compared to wild-type. The positive allosteric modulator, TRPC6-PAM-C20, and fluoxetine maintained their ability to enhance and inhibit, respectively, GSK-mediated calcium influx in Trpc6E896K/E896K platelets. The data demonstrate that gain-of-function mutant TRPC6 channel can enhance platelet activation, including PS exposure, while confirming that TRPC6 is not necessary for this process. Furthermore, the results suggest that Trpc6 GOF disease mutants do not simply increase wild-type TRPC6 responses, but can affect pathways not usually modulated by TRPC6 channel activity, displaying a true gain-of-function phenotype.
HBV seroprevalence and liver fibrosis status among population born before national immunization in Southern Thailand: Findings from a health check-up program
Authors: Sono Supinya , Sae-Chan Jirayu , Kaewdech Apichat , Chamroonkul Naichaya , Sripongpun Pimsiri
Published: June 2022

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the leading cause of liver-related death worldwide, particularly in Asia. Patients with either current or past HBV infection are at risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we investigated the HBV seroprevalence in residents of southern Thailand born before the national vaccination program.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of individuals born before the nationwide HBV vaccination program who sought check-up programs which included HBV serology and abdominal ultrasound at a tertiary care hospital in southern Thailand from 2019 to 2020 was conducted. HBV serology, cirrhosis and liver fibrosis status (determined by ultrasonography and FIB-4), and clinical notes regarding management following HBsAg+ detection were obtained.

Results

Of 1,690 eligible individuals, the overall prevalence of HBsAg+ and HBsAg-antiHBc+, indicating current and past HBV infections, were 2.9% and 27.8%, respectively. Among current HBV patients, 87.8% were unaware of their infection. Cirrhosis was found in 8.2%, 1.1%, and 0.3% of patients with current, past, and no HBV infection, respectively (p<0.001). One-fourth of past HBV patients had FIB-4≥1.45, which indicated indeterminate or significant liver fibrosis, which may increase the risk of HCC.

Conclusion

The prevalence of HBsAg+ in Southern Thailand was 2.9%, and that of past infection (HBsAg-antiHBc+) was 27.8%. Patients with current and past HBV infection have an increased risk of cirrhosis and significant liver fibrosis. Most current HBV patients were unaware of their infection. Identifying patients with current and past HBV infection who are at risk for HCC and linking them to a cascade of care is necessary to reduce the burden of HBV-related liver diseases in Thailand.
Factors that hinder medical career aspirations: A nationwide questionnaire survey of teachers in charge of career guidance in Japanese high schools
Authors: Otaki Junji , Taketomi Kikuko , Shibahara Machiko , Watanabe Yoko , Nagata-Kobayashi Shizuko , Harada Yoshimi , Mitoma Hiroshi
Published: June 2022

Despite concerns raised on the inequality in healthcare provision in Japan, little is known about the factors that hinder candidates’ application to medical schools. A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted to identify the impact of economic factors and living place on students’ choice of and preparation for medical school. The survey was administered to high school teachers with career advisory roles, as they support and likely influence students’ choice and decision on this matter. Responses totaling 1,094 were obtained from 1,746 high schools across Japan. The ratio of high schools with two or more students enrolled in medical schools every year is higher in private schools, those with high tuition, and those located in big cities. Approximately 66.8% of the respondents agreed that "It is difficult for students in economically disadvantaged families to enroll in medical schools;" 42.0% agreed that "Some students gave up on aspiring to enter medical schools because they could not afford it," and 61.2% agreed that "Students living in urban areas are more likely to enroll in medical schools." When asked about the percentage of students attending prep school among those aspiring for a medical career, significantly more respondents from private versus public high schools answered "80% or more." When asked about the percentage of parents who are doctors or dentists among students aspiring for a medical career, significantly more respondents from private versus public high schools answered "50% or more.” The results suggest that students from lower-income families and those living in rural areas are more likely to be disadvantaged when choosing a medical career (because of financial difficulties) than those who live in urban areas and come from wealthier families. The results imply that economic and geographical divides in medical admission are reflected in high school teachers’ perception of and support provided to students.
Biomechanics of running: A special reference to the comparisons of wearing boots and running shoes
Authors: Shamsoddini Alireza , Hollisaz Mohammad Taghi
Published: June 2022

Boots are often used in sports, occupations, and rehabilitation. However, there are few studies on the biomechanical alterations after wearing boots. The current study aimed to compare the effects of running shoes and boots on running biomechanics. Kinematics and ground reaction forces were recorded from 17 healthy males during running at 3.3 m/s with shoe and boot conditions. Temporal distance gait variables, ground reaction force components as well as lower limb joints angle, moment, and power were compared using Paired t-test and Statistical Parametric Mapping package for time-series analysis. Running with boots was associated with greater stride, step, flight, and swing times, greater flight length, and smaller cadence (p<0.05). The only effect of boots on lower limb joints kinematics during running was a reduction in ankle range of motion (p<0.05). Significantly greater hip flexor, abductor, and internal rotator moments, greater knee extensor and abductor moments, and ankle plantar flexor moments were observed at push-off phase of running as well as greater ankle dorsiflexor moment at early-stance in boot condition (p<0.05). Also, knee joint positive power was greater with a significant temporal shift in boot condition, suggesting a compensatory mechanism in response to limited ankle range of motion and the inability of the ankle joint to generate the required power. Our findings showed that running with boots is physically more demanding and is associated with a greater net contribution of muscles spanning hip and knee joints in order to generate more power and compensate for the ankle joint limitations, consequently, may increase the risk of both musculoskeletal injuries and degenerative joint diseases.
Vitamin D status in breast cancer cases following chemotherapy: A pre and post observational study in a tertiary hospital in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Puspitaningtyas Herindita , Sulistyoningrum Dian Caturini , Witaningrum Riani , Widodo Irianiwati , Hardianti Mardiah Suci , Taroeno-Hariadi Kartika Widayati , Kurnianda Johan , Purwanto Ibnu , Hutajulu Susanna Hilda
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To observe pre- and post-treatment vitamin D level and its association with treatment and concomitant factors in breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy.

Methods

We performed a pre-post observational analysis that nested in an ongoing prospective cohort study of breast cancer patients at Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. 136 subjects were recruited from the main study. Information on subjects’ socio-demographic characteristics clinical status, and tumour profile was assessed at baseline. Number of chemotherapy cycles and chemotherapy-induced nausea vomiting (CINV) were also recorded. Vitamin D concentration was measured using ELISA methods at baseline and post-treatment. Vitamin D level of <20 ng/ml and <12 ng/ml were defined as deficiency and severe deficiency. Correlation between socio-demographic and clinical profile with baseline vitamin D was tested using Spearman correlation. Paired t-test was used to evaluate changes in post-treatment vitamin D concentration. The odds ratio for a subject to experience post-treatment vitamin D decrease was assessed based on number of chemotherapy cycles and CINV severity.

Results

The mean vitamin D level before chemotherapy was very low (8.80±3.64 ng/ml) in the whole panel. Higher AST level were associated with lower vitamin D level at baseline (r = -0.188, p = 0.028). Severe deficiency was found in 82.4% subjects at baseline and the rate increased to 89.0% after chemotherapy. Eighty-five cases showed a decrease level whereas 51 showed a slight improvement. Overall, a significant decrease of the vitamin D level was observed after chemotherapy (median change 3.13±4.03 ng/ml, p <0.001). Subjects who received >6 cycles of chemotherapy were less likely to experience a decreased level of post-treatment vitamin D (OR = 0.436, 95% CI = 0.196–0.968, p = 0.039).

Conclusions

Indonesian breast cancer patients showed pre-existing severe vitamin D deficiency and deterioration of vitamin D after chemotherapy. Future research is needed to explore its implication towards patients’ survival in the local setting. Evidence-based approach also needs to be taken to address this modifiable condition, including increasing awareness of the importance of maintaining vitamin D sufficiency both in patients and the general population.