bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transferrin As A Targeting Ligand for Liposomes and Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Singh M.
Published: January 2023

In cancer treatment, one of the approaches is targeting of the drug to tumor cells via receptor specific ligands. Transferrin (molecular weight 80,000) has been used as a ligand for delivering anticancer drugs or drug containing liposomes mostly due to the increased number of transferrin (trf) receptors found on tumor cells as compared to normal cells. Transferrin was linked to methotrexate (MTX) containing small unilamellar liposomes and its activity was compared to antitransferrin receptor antibody (7D-3) linked to MTX liposomes. In each of these conjugates, the method of coupling was the same and a disulphide linkage was fanned between the ligand and MTX liposomes. No significant differences in the potency of 7D-3 conjugate or trf conjugate with MTX liposomes were observed in studies performed in vitro against various human tumor cell lines (Hela, KB and Colon). Trf was also linked to adriamycin via a schiff base which was formed by using glutaraldehyde. This conjugate was found to be effective in vitro against various human tumors (Lovo, HL-60, SW 403 and Hep2) and also in vivo against H­ mesothelioma tumors. Transferrin receptor has also been used for gene delivery. Gene delivery to K562 haematopoietic leukaemic cells was achieved by using a transferrin-polycation (poly-L-lysine or protamine) conjugate. This review will cover the various important applications of transferrin based drug delivery formulations in the chemotherapy of cancer and the related work performed in our and other laboratories.
Therapeutic Strategies for Coronary Artery Disease Beyond Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL)--Lowering
Authors: Saxena Uday , Arad Yadon
Published: January 2023

Coronary artery disease (CAD) ranks as the leading cause of death in the western world. The most widely used therapeutics utilized for the treatment of CAD are the lipid-lowering drugs, which lower plasma cholesterol. However lowering cholesterol alone may not be sufficient to provide benefit to all patient populations at risk for CAD. This creates an unmet medical need. Emerging knowledge of the genesis, progression and regression of atherosclerosis, that leads to CAD permits evaluation of other therapeutic strategies.

This review will evaluate two such naturally occurring paradigms, the nitric oxide pathway and the high-density lipoprotein system which are nature's defense mechanisms against atherosclerosis and may lead to next generation therapeutics against CAD.
Cadmium Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Kelley Colleen , Sargent David E. , Uno Jennifer K.
Published: January 2023

Pollution of the environment with toxic metals has increased dramatically since the beginning of the industrial revolution. Cadmium is of particular concern because it accumulates in the human body with a half-life exceeding IO years and has been Jinked with a number of health problems including renal tubular dysfunction, pulmonary emphysema, significant kidney damage, and possibly osteoporosis. Moreover, in 1993 the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified cadmium and compounds containing cadmium as human carcinogens.
The field of cadmium intoxication therapy has seen increases in interest due to its poignant toxicity in both humans and animals. Preliminary attempts to combat acute cadmium poisoning included the use of the chelating agents ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and British anti-Lewisite (BAL). This review will focus on the chemistry, biology, and effectiveness of cadmium intoxication therapy to date. The toxicokinetics of cadmium mammals will be discussed briefly to understand the extent and severity of overexposure. An overview of cadmium chelation therapy will be given with an e_mphasis on the measurable effectiveness of each and significant structure activity relationships. Cadmium intoxication therapy will be reviewed by their indicated routes of action: direct (chelation and antagonism), indirect (induction), and symptom alleviation. The methods by which cadmium therapeutics are evaluated (in vivo, in vitro) are to be discussed. An evaluation of the clinical potential for promising therapeutics will be given.
The Dolastatins, A Family of Promising Antineoplastic Agents
Authors: Poncet Joel
Published: January 2023

The dolastatins and some related compounds are antineoplastic pseudopeptides isolated from the sea hare Dolabella auricularia by the groups of G. R. Pettit and K. Yamada. Several groups including ours have contributed to the development of synthetic routes to most of these compounds. We recently described the synthesis of dolatrienoic acid, the lipidic component of dolastatin 14. Among all these metabolites, dolastatin IO and dolastatin 15 exhibit the most promising antiproliferative properties and are currently under evaluation in clinical trials. These antimitotic agents seem to exert their activity by interacting with tubulin and inducing apoptosis. Research in this
domain could greatly benefit from the recent elucidation of the atomic structure of tubulin. However, other targets cannot be excluded. Elucidation of the structure-activity relationships is an important step in the development of therapeutic agents. Parallel to the studies developed by other groups, our approach to exploring structural requirements for the antineoplastic activity of these compounds involved the determination of their preferred conformations in solution. Our study showed that dolastatin IO exists in two different conformations corresponding to a cis-trans isomerization of a central amide bond. Such a situation was not demonstrated in the case of dolastatin I 5. In view of elucidating the biological relevance of these findings, we elaborated hybrid molecules constituted of parts of both compounds. We also synthesized a cyclic analogue of dolastatin 10 which locked this compound in its cis conformation. Our results as well as those of others could be interpreted in terms of an existing structural model.
Inhibitors of 17α-Hydroxylase/17,20-Lyase (CYPl7): Potential Agents for the Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Brodie A.M.H. , Njar V.C.O.
Published: January 2023

Prostate cancer (PCa) is now the most prevalent cancer in men in the U.S.A. and Europe. At present the major treatment options include surgical or medical castration. These strategies depend on the abolition of the production of testosterone by the testes. However, as these procedures do not affect adrenal androgen production, they are frequently combined with androgen receptor antagonist to block their action.
Inhibition of the key enzyme which catalyzes the biosynthesis of androgens from pregnane precursors, I 7a­ hydroxylase/l 7,20-lyase (hereafter referred to as CYP17 ) could prevent androgen biosynthesis from both sources. Thus total blockade of androgen production by CYP17 inhibitors may provide effective treatment of prostate cancer patients. Indeed, this strategy is now an area of intense interest within research institutions and the pharmaceulical industry. This review highlights development in the design and evaluation of both steroidal and non-steroidal CYPl 7 inhibitors since 1965. Major emphasis is given to the potent CYPI 7 inhibitors and those which may show clinical promise. The review could function as a comprehensive working reference of research accomplishment in the field and what problems remain to be tackled in the future.
Identification of Potential MicroRNA-MRNA Regulatory Relationship
Pairs in Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea
Authors: Yan Wenli , Kan Zunqi , Li Zhaofeng , Ma Yuxia , Du Dongqing
Published: January 2023

Background:

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common gastrointestinal disease
worldwide, with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) being the prevalent
subtype. However, its pathogenesis remains unclear. Research has increasingly focused on identifying
genetic factors in the mechanisms underlying IBS.

Objective:

We aimed to explore key gene nodes and potential microRNA-mRNA regulatory pairs of
IBS-D using bioinformatics methods.

Methods:

We downloaded the GSE36701 microarray dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus
database and obtained 1358 differentially expressed mRNAs by analyzing mRNA profiles using the
GEO2R analysis tool. Based on our previous study, we used TargetScan, miTarBase, and miRDB to
predict the downstream genes of three known microRNAs (hsa-let-7b-5p, hsa-miR-19b-3p, and hsamiR-
20a-5p), and the microRNA-mRNA regulatory network was visualized using Cytoscape.

Results:

A total of 795 downstream target genes were found in TargetScan, miRTarBase, and
miRDB databases, and 50 candidate genes were obtained. The Metascape and STRING databases
were used to perform enrichment analysis and construct a protein-protein interaction network of
candidate genes. Finally, we constructed a network of 3 microRNAs and 50 candidate mRNAs,
among which 28 negative relation ship pairs and 5 key axes (hsa-miR-20a-5p/VEGFA, hsa-let-7b-
5p/MSN, hsa-let-7b-5p /PPP1R16B, hsa-19b-3p/ITGA2, and hsa-19b-3p/PIK3R3) were identified.

Conclusion:

We report five novel microRNA-mRNA regulatory axes in IBS-D pathogenesis and
speculated that PIK3R3, negatively regulated by hsa-miR-19b-3p, may regulate NF-κB production
through the PI3K/Akt pathway, which accounts for the occurrence of clinical symptoms in IBS-D
patients. Our findings may offer key biomarkers for IBS-D diagnosis and treatment.
Impact of Microgravity on Virulence, Antibiotic Resistance and Gene
Expression in Beneficial and Pathogenic Microorganisms
Authors: Salavatifar Maryam , Ahmadi Seyedeh Meysameh , Todorov Svetoslav Dimitrov , Khosravi-Darani Kianoush , Tripathy Abhishek
Published: January 2023

During space missions, the impact of the space conditions (both microgravity and radiation)
on physiologic and metabolic aspects of the microbiota of astronauts' bodies should be considered.
Changes depend on the mission's duration, types of organisms, and ecology. Reported alterations
are related to changes in morphology, growth, gene expression, and physiology of cells, resulting in
increased virulence, acid, antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation, secondary metabolism, and microbial
mutations. Accordingly, recent research indicates the impacts of simulated microgravity on human
physiology and bacterial characteristics. This paper has reviewed the aspects of microgravity on
changes in microbiota, including virulence, antibiotic resistance, and gene expression. Microgravity
can undermine humans and makes influence bacterial pathogenicity. The review of papers shows that
some microorganisms showed higher pathogenicity under microgravity conditions. Moreover, sulfamethoxazole
had the highest resistance among Gram-positive microorganisms, and gentamicin had
the highest resistance in Gram-negative bacteria. All antibiotics reviewed under microgravity conditions
were robust in both groups of microorganisms compared to the gravity condition. Furthermore,
some gene expression was altered in bacteria under microgravity conditions compared to Earth conditions
(standard bacterial growth conditions). Changes in microbial behavior under microgravity directly
influence astronauts' health conditions, and a detailed analysis of known facts can provide essential
information for the selection of appropriate probiotics for these specific cases during the missions and
after the recovery processes. Moreover, the study of microorganisms changes in the absence of gravity
will help to understand the mechanisms of causing diseases on Earth and may be applied in clinical
practice.
Insight on Cardiac Chronobiology and Latest Developments of Chronotherapeutic
Antihypertensive Interventions for Better Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Joshi Kumud , Das Madhubanti , Sarma Anupam , Arora Mandeep K. , SInghal Manmohan , Kumar Bhavna
Published: January 2023

Cardiac circadian rhythms are an important regulator of body functions, including car-diac activities and blood pressure. Disturbance of circadian rhythm is known to trigger and aggra-vate various cardiovascular diseases. Thus, modulating the circadian rhythm can be used as a ther-apeutic approach to cardiovascular diseases. Through this work, we intend to discuss the current understanding of cardiac circadian rhythms, in terms of quantifiable parameters like BP and HR. We also elaborate on the molecular regulators and the molecular cascades along with their specific genetic aspects involved in modulating circadian rhythms, with specific reference to cardiovascu-lar health and cardiovascular diseases. Along with this, we also presented the latest phar-macogenomic and metabolomics markers involved in chronobiological control of the cardiovascu-lar system along with their possible utility in cardiovascular disease diagnosis and therapeutics. Finally, we reviewed the current expert opinions on chronotherapeutic approaches for utilizing the conventional as well as the new pharmacological molecules for antihypertensive chronotherapy.
A Wholistic Approach to Non-Pharmacological Intervention for Primary Dysmenorrhea
Authors: Wal Pranay , Gupta Divyanshi , Wal Ankita , Pandey Shiv Shankar , Krishnan Karthickeyan
Published: January 2023

Background:

Primary dysmenorrhea is a prevalent complaint among women nowadays. Primary dysmenorrhea is a painful disorder that occurs during the menstrual cycle. It is described as unpleasant menstrual cramps or period discomfort that occurs without the presence of any pelvic illness. Primary dysmenorrhea is one of the most common causes of absence from school, work, and social activities. It has an impact on women's daily quality of life.

Objective:

To investigate the efficacy and safety of non-pharmacological treatments for women suffering from primary dysmenorrhea.

Methods:

We looked up information on gynaecology in the Cochrane library, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and other databases. We looked at multiple clinical trial databases from the year before as well as systematic reviews that had been done before.

Result:

As per qualitative assessment, non-pharmacological management for primary dysmenorrhea is extremely effective and wonderful for overall health. Primary dysmenorrhea can be treated with any of the approaches outlined in this study.

Conclusion:

The study revealed that non-pharmacological approaches, such as yoga, physical activity, heat treatment, massage therapy, water therapy, dietary supplements, acupressure, aromatherapy, massage therapy, and other non-invasive techniques, have a significant role in the management of dysmenorrhoea. It was observed that women who engage in regular physical activity do not experience severe dysmenorrhea. Additionally, it was discovered in this study that dietary nutrients like vitamin D and other nutraceuticals ameliorate the symptoms of dysmenorrhea.
Effects of SIRT1 on Osteogenic Differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal
Stem Cells in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Deng Xiangqun , Deng Ling , Xu Min , Sun Yanlei , Yang Mei
Published: January 2023

Background:

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are at high risk for osteoporosis.
SIRT1 plays an important regulatory role in the occurrence and development of diabetes
mellitus; however, it is still not clear whether SIRT1 is directly related to the osteogenic ability of
bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) in T2DM patients.

Methods:

We obtained BMSCs from patients with T2DM and healthy volunteers to determine the
effect of SIRT1 expression on the osteogenic capacity of BMSCs. As a result, SIRT1 expression in
BMSCs in T2DM was significantly lower compared to healthy volunteers, but the proliferative capacity
of BMSCs in the T2DM group was not significantly different from that of healthy volunteers.

Results:

During osteogenic differentiation, the expression of SIRT1 in MSCs from T2DM patients
was significantly decreased, and the osteogenic differentiation ability of MSCs from T2DM patients
was significantly lower than healthy volunteers. After intervention with resveratrol, the expression
of SIRT1 increased significantly, and the apoptotic rate of MSCs in T2DM patients decreased significantly.
Moreover, resveratrol promoted osteoblast differentiation of MSCs.

Conclusion:

Our study confirmed that the expression of SIRT1 is directly related to the osteogenic
potential of BMSCs in patients with T2DM. Resveratrol promoted the osteogenic differentiation of
BMSCs by increasing the expression of SIRT1. The increased expression of SIRT1 significantly
reduced BMSC apoptosis during osteogenic differentiation, which is one of the important mechanisms
by which SIRT1 regulates the osteogenic ability of BMSCs. Our data also provide strong
evidence that resveratrol may be used in the treatment of osteoporosis in patients with T2DM.
Control of Bacterial Wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum) and Reduction of Ginger Yield Loss through Integrated Management Methods in Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Benti Eyob Aysanew
Published: January 2023

Background:

Bacterial wilt incited by Ralstonia solanacearum is the most important disease affecting ginger production in southwestern Ethiopia. Unavailability of disease-free planting materials, resistant cultivars, and effective chemical compounds are the key constraints in managing the disease.

Objective:

The study was initiated to determine the effect of integrated management methods on bacterial wilt disease and yield loss of ginger through combining hot water, bio-fumigation, soil-solarization and chemical pesticides.

Methods:

A total of seven treatment combinations comprising hot water, bio-fumigation, soil-solarization, Mancozeb, and bleaching powder were tested in a randomized complete block design in three replications. Data on disease incidence, growth, yield, and yield components were recorded from randomly selected plants.

Results:

The use of Mancozeb for seed socking and soil drenching combined with bio-fumigation and soil-solarization reduced the incidence of bacterial wilt by 63.3% and enhanced the rhizome yield by 66.8%. Rhizome and soil treatment using bleaching powder along with soil bio-fumigation also reduced the disease incidence by 38.9% and increased ginger yield by 61.5%. It also provided the highest (6678.7%) marginal rate of return of any treatment combination tested in the experiment. Disease incidence was highly significantly and inversely (r= -0.98**) correlated with rhizome yield. The regression slope estimated that 83.4% of ginger yield loss was associated with the bacterial wilt disease.

Conclusion:

A combined application of Mancozeb, bio-fumigation and soil-solarization can be used to control ginger bacterial wilt. Alternatively, bleaching powder for rhizome and soil treatment in conjunction with bio-fumigation can be employed as an integrated management system against the disease.
Cytotoxic Activity of Gambier Leave (Uncaria gambir) Ethyl Acetate Extract on Mouse Embryonic Fibroblast Cell (NIH-3T3) using MTT Assay
Authors: Pramanik Farina , Satari Mieke Hemiawati , Azhari Azhari
Published: January 2023

Background:

Uncaria gambir or gambier is one of the plants widely found in Indonesia. Gambier is locally known as an antioxidant and antibacterial agent because it has high catechin content. Ethyl acetate extract of gambier leaves has been investigated to contain the highest catechin content than other extraction solvents. Fibroblasts are often used in biomaterial viability and toxicity tests because they have a highly reproducible growth rate and biological response. NIH-3T3 is commonly used as a substitute for human gingival fibroblasts. However, no study has been conducted on the cytotoxic activity of gambier extract on fibroblast cells.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether the cytotoxic activity of gambier ethyl acetate extract (GEE) exerts on NIH-3T3 cell lines using MTT assay.

Methods:

The cytotoxic activity of gambier extract was evaluated in three incubation periods. The cytotoxicity test was conducted using an ethyl acetate extract of gambier (Uncaria gambir Roxb.) leaves. The NIH-3T3 cell was treated by GEE in ten concentrations (0, 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 250, 500, and 1000 ppm) for 24-, 48, and 72-hour incubation periods. Cell viability was determined with MTT (3-4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl -2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. The data were analyzed statistically using SPSS based on ANOVA, followed by Tukey HSD post hoc with p<0.05 and ANOVA paired sample T-test with p<0.05, and the CD50 value was measured by Sigma Plot software.

Results:

GEE at 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 250 ppm have cell viability >80%, and cell viability was observed to be increased based on the incubation period. GEE at 1000 ppm significantly decreased the cell viability from GEE at 0 ppm in 24-, 48-, and 72-hour incubation periods (23.83%, 30.14%, and 19.02%, respectively). Moreover, GEE at 500 ppm became toxic by significantly decreasing the cell viability in 48- and 72-hour incubation (40.43% and 23.03%, respectively). The CD50 value of GEE at 24-, 48-, and 72-hour incubation was found to be 578.03 ppm, 488.63 ppm, and 470.70 ppm, respectively.

Conclusion:

GEE at 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 250 ppm were not found to be toxic to NIH-3T3 cells for 24-, 48-, and 72-hour incubation periods.
CYBERBULLYING AND VIDEOCONFERENCE EFFECTS ON BODY IMAGE DISTURBANCE IN MEDICAL STUDENTS OF YOGYAKARTA
Authors:   Universitas Gadjah Mada, Pratiti Budi , Sari Meliya , Aulia Afkar , Soewadi Soewadi
Published: January 2023

Medical students are often expected to have ideal appearance and thus, may be susceptible to body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Limited data exist about the influence of demographic factors on the severity of BDD in this population, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to understand the association between demographic variables and severity of body image disturbance in Indonesian medical students. Second-year medical students of Islamic University of Indonesia participated in the study (n=116). Participants completed the informed consent form, self-reported demographic questionnaire, Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire (BIDQ), and additional questions about bullying, cyberbullying, videoconference, and COVID-19. Data were analyzed using Pearsonâ€™s correlation and linear regression. We found significant correlations between height, female gender, history of being bullied, history of being cyberbullied, history of being body-shamed, history of being sexually-harassed, lack of confidence about appearance during videoconference, and the behavior of comparing appearance during videoconference with total BIDQ score (|r|=0.304-0.433, p=0.000-0.002). Regression analysis showed that only history of being cyberbullied, lack of confidence about appearance during videoconference, and the behavior of comparing appearance during videoconference (p=0.009 â€“ 0.037) significantly predicted BIDQ score. Internet-related factors such as cyberbullying and worrying or comparing appearance during teleconference could significantly affect body image of medical students.
ANALYSIS OF RADON GAS EXPOSURE IN THE HOME ON THE RISK OF LUNG CANCER (NARRATIVE REVIEW)
Authors:   State Islamic University of Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Sulthanah Adinda
Published: January 2023

According to WHO 2009, exposure to radon gas is known to be the second highest cause of lung cancer. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.EPA) estimates that 21,000 lung cancer deaths annually result from exposure to radon in the United States. Radon (ð‘…ð‘›222) naturally originates in soil and rock and it is the decay of Uranium-238 (ð‘ˆ 238). This study used a literature review study that aims to review several research journal articles regarding exposure to Radon gas in the home with the risk of lung cancer. The data base used to search for research journal articles are Science Direct, PubMed, DOAJ, JSTOR, and Taylor & Francis. The results of this study were: (1) nine out of twelve journal articles described a significant association between Rn in the home (concentration of Rn 37 Bq/ð‘š3 until â‰¥ 300 Bq/ð‘š3 ) and the risk of lung cancer; (2) the duration of stay of the occupants in the house lasted from 2-30 years; and (3) eight journal articles presented that the most common lung cancer cell subtype associated with Rn exposure in the home was adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. People need to maintain indoor airflow and choosing safe building material (not containing Rn).
ANALYSIS OF KNOWLEDGE ON CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE LUNG DISEASE
Authors:   Universitas Brawijaya, Djajalaksana Susanthy , Listyoko Aditya , Kristiani Maria , Effendi Tiar , Sirait Magdalena
Published: January 2023

Background : Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseaseÂ (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality and disability worldwide and represents a huge economical burden for the healthcare system. By knowing the level of public understanding of this disease, we were able to find out what education could be given to increase understanding about COPD. The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge of the non-medical and medical personnel about COPD. Methods : This is descriptive research. The research was conducted cross-sectionally with 200 respondents consisting of 100 medical subjects and 100 non-medical subjects. This research was carried out in the RSSA environment in November 2021. The data collection technique is that respondents filled out a Google Form. Results : The total score of the six categories showed that 73.875% of the medical group and 47.17% of the non-medical group already understood COPD. In all categories, the results of the analysis showing statistical significance (p<0.001). Conclusion : Our study shows significant knowledge about all knowledge of COPD between the general public and medical personnel. Suggestion : socialization to the public about COPD and the importance of the community getting to know COPD in preventive and treatment measures.
THE EFFECT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON INFECTIOUS SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT IN MOTHER AND CHILD HOSPITALS
Authors:   Universitas Brawijaya, Sedana I Ketut , Fajar Achmad , Wardhana Eka , Zamanti Arfiyani , Nofitria Dina
Published: January 2023

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease that being caused from Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). During COVID-19 pandemic, mother and child hospital carry their usual routine same as before the pandemic to give service for children and the mother. To increase the safety and the quality of service for the patient, the hospital increases the uses of medical personnel's protective equipment (PPE) and managing medical waste to adapt with the pandemic situation. Main purpose of the research is to examine how COVID-19 effected the number of the solid infectious medical waste being produced and the management of the waste itself on mother and child hospital. The research takes place on two mother and child hospital in Malang City with case study on both hospital by using quantitative research method for examining the impact that COVID-19 pandemic causes for the infectious solid medical waste number and the management of the waste itself. Analysis using the parametric T-Test shown 95% confidence interval. The result show their is a significant increase for the solid infectious medical waste that being produced by both Hospital. The first Hospital (A) show p-value 0,046 and the second hospital (B) p value is 0,00. The research concluded that COVID-19 pandemic effected the increase number of solid infectious medical waste produced in mother and child hospital and there is no difference for the waste management before and after COVID-19 pandemic.
Vulnerability to HIV Infection Among International Immigrants in China: Cross-sectional Web-Based Survey
Authors: Zhou Yuyin , Cheng Feng , Xu Junfang
Published: January 2023

Background

The rising number of migrants worldwide, including in China given its recent rapid economic development, poses a challenge for the public health system to prevent infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by risky sexual behaviors.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the risky sexual behaviors of international immigrants living in China to provide evidence for establishment of a localized public health service system.

Methods

Risky sexual behaviors were divided into multiple sexual partners and unprotected sexual behaviors. Basic characteristics, sexual knowledge, and behaviors of international immigrants were summarized with descriptive statistics. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with risky sexual behaviors, and the associations of demographic characteristics and risk behaviors with HIV testing and intention to test for HIV.

Results

In total, 1433 international immigrants were included in the study, 61.76% (n=885) of whom had never heard of STIs, and the mean HIV knowledge score was 5.42 (SD 2.138). Overall, 8.23% (118/1433) of the participants had been diagnosed with an STI. Among the 1433 international immigrants, 292 indicated that they never use a condom for homosexual sex, followed by sex with a stable partner (n=252), commercial sex (n=236), group sex (n=175), and casual sex (n=137). In addition, 119 of the international immigrants had more than three sex partners. Individuals aged 31-40 years were more likely to have multiple sexual partners (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.364, 95% CI 1.149-4.862). Married participants were more likely to have unprotected sexual behaviors (AOR 3.096, 95% CI –1.705 to 5.620), whereas Asians were less likely to have multiple sexual partners (AOR 0.446, 95% CI 0.328-0.607) and unprotected sexual behaviors (AOR 0.328, 95% CI 0.219-0.492). Women were more likely to have taken an HIV test than men (AOR 1.413, 95% CI 1.085-1.841). Those who were married (AOR 0.577, 95% CI 0.372-0.894), with an annual disposable income >150,000 yuan (~US $22,000; AOR 0.661, 95% CI 0.439-0.995), considered it impossible to become infected with HIV (AOR 0.564, 95% CI 0.327-0.972), and of Asian ethnicity (AOR 0.330, 95% CI 0.261-0.417) were less likely to have an HIV test. People who had multiple sexual partners were more likely to have taken an HIV test (AOR 2.041, 95% CI 1.442-2.890) and had greater intention to test for HIV (AOR 1.651, 95% CI 1.208-2.258).

Conclusions

International immigrants in China exhibit risky sexual behaviors, especially those aged over 30 years. In addition, the level of HIV-related knowledge is generally low. Therefore, health interventions such as targeted, tailored programming including education and testing are urgently needed to prevent new HIV infections and transmission among international immigrants and the local population.
The Reliability and Quality of Short Videos as a Source of Dietary Guidance for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Cross-sectional Study
Authors: He Zixuan , Wang Zhijie , Song Yihang , Liu Yilong , Kang Le , Fang Xue , Wang Tongchang , Fan Xuanming , Li Zhaoshen , Wang Shuling , Bai Yu
Published: January 2023

Background

Dietary management is considered a potential adjunctive treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Short-video sharing platforms have enabled patients to obtain dietary advice more conveniently. However, accessing useful resources while avoiding misinformation is not an easy task for most patients.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the quality of the information in IBD diet–related videos on Chinese short-video sharing platforms.

Methods

We collected and extracted information from a total of 125 video samples related to the IBD diet on the 3 Chinese short-video sharing platforms with the most users: TikTok, Bilibili, and Kwai. Two independent physicians evaluated each video in terms of content comprehensiveness, quality (rated by Global Quality Score), and reliability (rated by a modified DISCERN tool). Finally, comparative analyses of the videos from different sources were conducted.

Results

The videos were classified into 6 groups based on the identity of the uploaders, which included 3 kinds of medical professionals (ie, gastroenterologists, nongastroenterologists, and clinical nutritionists) and 3 types of non–medical professionals (ie, nonprofit organizations, individual science communicators, and IBD patients). The overall quality of the videos was poor. Further group comparisons demonstrated that videos from medical professionals were more instructive in terms of content comprehensiveness, quality, and reliability than those from non–medical professionals. Moreover, IBD diet–related recommendations from clinical nutritionists and gastroenterologists were of better quality than those from nongastroenterologists, while recommendations from nonprofit organizations did not seem to be superior to other groups of uploaders.

Conclusions

The overall quality of the information in IBD diet-related videos is unsatisfactory and varies significantly depending on the source. Videos from medical professionals, especially clinical nutritionists and gastroenterologists, may provide dietary guidance with higher quality for IBD patients.
The Effectiveness of an After-school Sport Sampling Intervention on Urban Middle School Youth in the Midwest: Posttest-Only Study
Authors: Lightner Joseph , Eighmy Katlyn , Valleroy Ella , Wray Bridget , Grimes Amanda
Published: January 2023

Background

Effective and scalable interventions are needed to combat chronic low levels of youth physical activity. After-school sport sampling programs may be vital interventions for teaching sports and increasing physical literacy and physical activity, which result in healthy lifelong habits that are maintained into adulthood.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of an after-school sport sampling intervention among underserved youth in the Midwest.

Methods

Youth (n=81) in 3 middle schools within a large Midwest city participated in an 8-month, after-school physical activity intervention that aimed to increase moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity, improve physical literacy, and decrease BMI. Difference scores for this 2-group, posttest-only design were calculated. A series of 2-tailed t tests were conducted to assess between-group differences.

Results

The intervention group had significantly better physical literacy (t115=7.57; P=.004) and engaged in more moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity minutes per week (t115=4.28; P=.04) and steps per day (t115=4.29; P=.03).

Conclusions

An after-school sport sampling program may be an effective solution for combating youth physical inactivity. Future research should assess the scalability of this intervention with larger populations and in different areas.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR2-10.2196/37126
Analysis of Wastewater Samples to Explore Community Substance Use in the United States: Pilot Correlative and Machine Learning Study (Preprint)
Authors: Severson Marie A , Onanong Sathaporn , Dolezal Alexandra , Bartelt-Hunt Shannon L , Snow Daniel D , McFadden Lisa M
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Substance use disorder and associated deaths have increased in the United States, but methods for detecting and monitoring substance use using rapid and unbiased techniques are lacking. Wastewater-based surveillance is a cost-effective method for monitoring community drug use. However, the examination of the results often focuses on descriptive analysis.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to explore community substance use in the United States by analyzing wastewater samples. Geographic differences and commonalities of substance use were explored.

METHODS

Wastewater was sampled across the United States (n=12). Selected drugs with misuse potential, prescriptions, and over-the-counter drugs and their metabolites were tested across geographic locations for 7 days. Methods used included wastewater assessment of substances and metabolites paired with machine learning, specifically discriminant analysis and cluster analysis, to explore similarities and differences in wastewater measures.

RESULTS

Geographic variations in the wastewater drug or metabolite levels were found. Results revealed a higher use of methamphetamine (z=–2.27, P=.02) and opioids-to-methadone ratios (oxycodone-to-methadone: z=–1.95, P=.05; hydrocodone-to-methadone: z=–1.95, P=.05) in states west of the Mississippi River compared to the east. Discriminant analysis suggested temazepam and methadone were significant predictors of geographical locations. Precision, sensitivity, specificity, and F1-scores were 0.88, 1, 0.80, and 0.93, respectively. Finally, cluster analysis revealed similarities in substance use among communities.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that wastewater-based surveillance has the potential to become an effective form of surveillance for substance use. Further, advanced analytical techniques may help uncover geographical patterns and detect communities with similar needs for resources to address substance use disorders. Using automated analytics, these advanced surveillance techniques may help communities develop timely, tailored treatment and prevention efforts.
Using the New “Life’s Essential 8” Metrics to Evaluate Trends in Cardiovascular Health Among US Adults From 2005 to 2018: Analysis of Serial Cross-sectional Studies (Preprint)
Authors: Li Cheng , Li Yanzhi , Zhao Min , Zhang Cheng , Bovet Pascal , Xi Bo
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

The recently published “Life’s Essential 8” (LE8) by the American Heart Association has overcome some limitations in evaluating cardiovascular health (CVH) in the previous “Life’s Simple 7.”

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to examine the secular trends in CVH, as assessed by the LE8, in US adults from 2005 to 2018.

METHODS

Using cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2005-2006 and 2017-2018, we calculated the age-standardized mean scores of overall CVH and each of the LE8 components, where a higher score (range 0-100 points) means a better health status. A total of 21,667 adults aged 20-79 years were included in this analysis.

RESULTS

The overall CVH did not significantly change between 2005-2006 and 2017-2018 (65.5, 95% CI 63.9-67.1 to 65.0, 95% CI 62.8-67.1; P=.82). The individual metrics did not significantly change for diet (41.0, 95% CI 38.0-43.9 to 41.5, 95% CI 36.5-46.6; P=.94), physical activity (57.5, 95% CI 53.0-61.9 to 53.0, 95% CI 48.7-57.3; P=.26), and blood pressure (68.4, 95% CI 65.2-71.5 to 68.6, 95% CI 65.3-71.9, P=.35), improved for nicotine exposure (64.7, 95% CI 61.1-68.4 to 71.9, 95% CI 67.7-76.2; P<.001), sleep health (83.7, 95% CI 81.6-85.7 to 84.1, 95% CI 81.2-87.1; P=.006), and blood lipids (61.6, 95% CI 59.1-64.0 to 67.0, 95% CI 63.5-70.4; P<.001), and worsened for BMI (63.4, 95% CI 59.7-67.1 to 56.2, 95% CI 52.5-59.9; P<.001) and blood glucose (83.9, 95% CI 82.4-85.4 to 77.4, 95% CI 74.5-80.3; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

According to the LE8, the overall CVH did not change among US adults from 2005 to 2018, as well as 3 components (diet, physical activity, and blood pressure). Other metrics such as nicotine exposure, blood lipids, and sleep health improved, while BMI and blood glucose deteriorated over time.

CLINICALTRIAL
Analisis Kegagalan Pelat Roller Coal Crusher Pada Circulating Fluidized Bed Boiler di PLTU Batu Bara
Authors: Utomo Faris Fadhil , Ilman Mochammad Noer
Published: January 2023

Salah satu alat yang digunakan untuk mengolah batu bara sebelum dimasukkan dan dibakar di dalam ruang bakar boiler pada Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga Uap (PLTU) batu bara dengan circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boiler adalah coal crusher. Salah satu masalah yang timbul pada alat tersebut adalah keausan pada gigi-gigi pelat yang bisa berdampak pada penurunan efisiensi pembakaran di boiler. Untuk mengatasi masalah ini, diperlukan repair weld untuk meningkatkan kekerasan permukaan (hardfacing) dengan menggunakan shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). Penelitian ini bertujuan mempelajari karakteristik material Hadfield steel yang digunakan sebagai pelat roller coal crusher di suatu PLTU batu bara CFB boiler pada kondisi sebelum perlakuan (as received) dan sesudah mengalami hardfacing (repair weld) menggunakan proses SMAW. Pada penelitian ini, perlakuan hardfacing dilakukan dengan menggunakan 3 jenis elektroda las SMAW, yaitu: AWS A5.4 E309-16, AWS A5.13 EFeMn-A, dan CHR 212, masing-masing untuk lapisan dasar, lapisan tengah dan permukaan atas dari gigi pelat. Selanjutnya dilakukan pengujian yang meliputi: uji komposisi kimia material, pengamatan struktur mikro, uji kekerasan mikro Vickers, uji tarik, uji impak, uji keausan, dan fraktografi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pelat as received  dengan struktur mikro berupa austenite cenderung rentan terhadap keausan (impact wear) pada gigi pelat saat dioperasikan karena kekerasan relatif rendah, yaitu sekitar 216 HV. Untuk pelat repair weld, struktur mikro berupa austenite pada lapisan AWS A5.4 E309-16 dan AWS A5.13 EFeMn-A dengan bentuk columnar dendritic sedangkan pada bagian permukaan gigi pelat yang dibuat dari elektroda CHR 212 berupa martensite dan austenite. Adanya struktur mikro berupa martensite pada permukaan gigi hasil dari repair welding ini menyebabkan peningkatan nilai kekerasan (700 HV) dan nilai ketahanan aus namun diikuti dengan penurunan ketangguhan impak dan kekuatan tarik akibat terjadinya retak las yang berupa retak pembekuan (weld solidification cracking) dan hydrogen-induced crack.
Juventud y migración. La construcción de una categoría para los derechos humanos
Authors: Velasco Rentería Oliver Ernesto
Published: January 2023

Este artículo es un estudio sobre la inmigración de jóvenes, su falta de reconocimiento en la legislación mexicana y las consecuencias de esta situación en los derechos humanos y las políticas públicas. Define lo que es ser joven e inmigrante, no como un enunciado legal sino como una situación, como un estado de ser que no siempre es un estado voluntario, sino un cambio forzado en la forma de vida de este pueblo. La situación y el contexto hacen que sea difícil de definir, pero eso es exactamente lo que falta en la legislación de derechos humanos. La principal propuesta de este documento es introducir la necesidad de categorías en lugar de conceptos para el uso legislativo en las definiciones de población, tomando en consideración situaciones que exponen la vulnerabilidad y el desalojo de los jóvenes inmigrantes, con el fin de brindar políticas más efectivas en los humanos.
La competencia intercultural en español como L2 y LE en el siglo XXI
Authors: Potvin Cynthia , Serrano Lezama Diana Karen
Published: January 2023

Si bien la enseñanza de segundas lenguas (L2) y lenguas extranjeras (LE) siempre ha prestado atención al componente gramatical (Sánchez Pérez, 2009), hoy en día enseñar una L2/LE significa mucho más que dotar al aprendiente de reglas gramaticales (Galindo Merino y Pérez Bernabeu, 2018; Villegas Paredes, 2018). En efecto, para lograr una comunicación exitosa, se requiere manejar una serie de aspectos interculturales compartidos por los hablantes de una comunidad lingüística dada. No sorprende entonces que obras de referencia como el Marco Común Europeo de Referencia para las Lenguas (MCER) (Consejo de Europa, 2001) y el Plan Curricular (Instituto Cervantes, 2007) hayan integrado la competencia intercultural dentro de las competencias por adquirir. Veinte años después de su publicación, el MCER (Consejo de Europa, 2001) incluso integraría las competencias pluricultural y plurilingüe (Consejo de Europa, 2020). Debido a que la evolución de la enseñanza de las L2/LE está estrechamente ligada con la evolución de la sociedad (Vez, 2015), la cual promueve la interculturalidad como competencia clave del siglo XXI (Deardorff, 2009), es de suponer que esta tendencia se verá reflejada en los manuales de español como segunda lengua y lengua extranjera (ELE). Mediante el análisis cualitativo de seis manuales de ELE recién publicados, destacaremos el tipo de cultura que más se expone en ellos. Para llevar a cabo nuestro análisis, nos basamos en la dicotomía cultura de tipo enciclopédico, o cultura con C mayúscula, y cultura a secas, según la terminología de Miquel y Sans (2004). Los resultados nos permitirán determinar los principales desafíos del desarrollo de la competencia intercultural en ELE. Para alcanzar el desarrollo óptimo de dicha competencia, propondremos recurrir al concepto de pedagogía intercultural (Chávez y Longerbeam, 2016; Lee, 2017). Aplicado este a la enseñanza del ELE, se reflejará el contexto de enseñanza como otro factor importante.
New geographic distribution of Chrysomya megacephala, the Oriental latrine blow fly (Diptera: Calliphoridae), in Mexico using citizen science and social media
Authors: Jaume-Schinkel Santiago , Mengual Ximo
Published: January 2023

In the present study we discuss the distribution of the exotic species Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) in Mexico, combining data from natural history collections, social media and citizen science. The oriental latrine blow fly is recorded for the first time in 16 Mexican states. Additionally, we provide an easy-to-follow guide to compare this species with similar looking species recorded from Mexico to help with its identification.
Ptychoid mites Steganacaridae (Oribatida), redescriptions, new records and identification key to the Mexican species
Authors: Ojeda Margarita , Iglesias Ricardo , Palacios-Vargas José G.
Published: January 2023

Ptychoid mites from Mexico are diverse, represented by 60 species of 17 genera. Data includes 6 genera and 21 species of the family Steganacaridae. Currently 5 species of the genus Atropacarus (Hoplophorella) are recorded in the country. Herein we present redescriptions and new records of A. (H.) singularis from Quintana Roo and A. (H.) hamatus from Puebla and Guerrero. New records for the country are given and a brief discussion on distribution is presented. A key to all the known species of Atropacarus (Hoplophorella) in Mexico is given.
Tuber caryophilum, a new truffle species growing in Carya illinoinensis orchards
Authors: Sánchez-Ledesma Judith A. , Guevara-Guerrero Gonzalo , Garibay-Orijel Roberto , Ángeles-Argáiz Rodolfo , Ávila-Rodríguez Verónica , Arreola-Ávila Jesús G. , Carrasco-Hernández Violeta , Borja-de la Rosa Amparo , González-García Fabián
Published: January 2023

Tuber is a genus of ectomycorrhizal fungi with an important diversity of species associated with hosts in Juglandaceae. Tuber caryophilum is proposed as a new species based on ecological, morphological and phylogenetic characters of 2 ribosomal markers (ITS and LSU). This species is characterized by forming ectomycorrhizae on the roots of Carya illinoinensis (nogal pecanero) in the Comarca Lagunera of Coahuila and Chihuahua, Mexico and by exhibiting 18-48 × 10-27 μm echinulate ascospores. Tuber caryophilum belongs to the Rufum clade and is the sister species of Tuber theleascum, a species reported in northern Mexico associated with Quercus canbyi and Q. polymorpha. These 2 truffles belong to a clade from the southern USA and northern Mexico with taxa associated to Quercus and Carya, such as Tuber lyonii.