bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unique Variant Spectrum in a Jordanian Cohort with Inherited Retinal Dystrophies
Authors: Azab Bilal , Dardas Zain , Aburizeg Dunia , Al-Bdour Muawyah , Abu-Ameerh Mohammed , Saleh Tareq , Barham Raghda , Maswadi Ranad , Ababneh Nidaa A , Alsalem Mohammad , Zouk Hana , Amr Sami , Awidi Abdalla
Published: April 2021

Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) is a powerful approach for detecting sequence variations in the human genome. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic defects in Jordanian patients with inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) using WES. WES was performed on proband patients’ DNA samples from 55 Jordanian families. Sanger sequencing was used for validation and segregation analysis of the detected, potential disease-causing variants (DCVs). Thirty-five putatively causative variants (6 novel and 29 known) in 21 IRD-associated genes were identified in 71% of probands (39 of the 55 families). Three families showed phenotypes different from the typically reported clinical findings associated with the causative genes. To our knowledge, this is the largest genetic analysis of IRDs in the Jordanian population to date. Our study also confirms that WES is a powerful tool for the molecular diagnosis of IRDs in large patient cohorts.
Microsatellite DNA Analysis for Diversity Study, Individual Identification and Parentage Control in Pig Breeds in Poland
Authors: Radko Anna , Smołucha Grzegorz , Koseniuk Anna
Published: April 2021

Swine DNA profiling is of high importance for animal identification and parentage verification. The aim of this study was to test a set of 14 microsatellite (STR) markers recommended by ISAG for parentage verification in Polish Landrace (PL, n = 900), Polish Large White (PLW, n = 482), Pulawska (PUL, n = 127), and Duroc pigs (DU n = 108). The studied breeds showed a medium level of genetic differentiation. The average value of heterozygosity and degree of polymorphism (PIC) were above 0.5 for the studied breeds, except for the DU breed (PIC = 0.477). The population inbreeding coefficient indicates an absence of inbreeding in the studied breeds (an average value of FIS = 0.007). The cumulative power of discrimination for all breeds reached high values close to 1.0, while the probability of identity (PID) was low, with PID values ranging between 10−9 (for DU) and 10−12 (for PLW). The cumulative exclusion probability for PE1 and PE2 showed that the parentage can be confirmed with a probability of from 92.75% to 99.01% and from 99.49% to 99.97%, respectively.
Inosine in Biology and Disease
Authors: Srinivasan Sundaramoorthy , Torres Adrian Gabriel , Ribas de Pouplana Lluís
Published: April 2021

The nucleoside inosine plays an important role in purine biosynthesis, gene translation, and modulation of the fate of RNAs. The editing of adenosine to inosine is a widespread post-transcriptional modification in transfer RNAs (tRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs). At the wobble position of tRNA anticodons, inosine profoundly modifies codon recognition, while in mRNA, inosines can modify the sequence of the translated polypeptide or modulate the stability, localization, and splicing of transcripts. Inosine is also found in non-coding and exogenous RNAs, where it plays key structural and functional roles. In addition, molecular inosine is an important secondary metabolite in purine metabolism that also acts as a molecular messenger in cell signaling pathways. Here, we review the functional roles of inosine in biology and their connections to human health.
Identification of Genetic Variants in 65 Obesity Related Genes in a Cohort of Portuguese Obese Individuals
Authors: Ginete Catarina , Serrasqueiro Bernardo , Silva-Nunes José , Veiga Luísa , Brito Miguel
Published: April 2021

Obesity is a major public health problem, which has a strong genetic component that interplays with environmental factors. Several genes are known to be implicated in the regulation of body weight. The identification of alleles that can be associated with obesity is a key element to control this pandemic. On the basis of a Portuguese population, 65 obesity-related genes are sequenced using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) in 72 individuals with obesity, in order to identify variants associated with monogenic obesity and potential risk factors. A total of 429 variants are identified, 129 of which had already been associated with the phenotype. Comparing our results with the European and Global frequencies, from 1000 Genomes project, 23 potential risk variants are identified. Six new variants are discovered in heterozygous carriers: four missense (genes ALMS1-NM_015120.4:c.5552C>T; SORCS1-NM_001013031.2:c.1072A>G and NM_001013031.2: c.2491A>C; TMEM67-NM_153704.5:c.158A>G) and two synonymous (genes BBS1-NM_024649.4:c.1437C>T; TMEM67-NM_153704.5:c.2583T>C). Functional studies should be performed to validate these new findings and evaluate their penetrance and pathogenicity. Regardless of no cases of monogenic obesity being identified, this kind of investigational study is important when we are still trying to understand the aetiology and pathophysiology of obesity. This will allow the identification of rare variants associated with obesity and the study of their prevalence in specific populational groups.
COVID-19-Related Fear, Risk Perception, and Safety Behavior in Individuals with Diabetes
Authors: Musche Venja , Kohler Hannah , Bäuerle Alexander , Schweda Adam , Weismüller Benjamin , Fink Madeleine , Schadendorf Theresa , Robitzsch Anita , Dörrie Nora , Tan Susanne , Teufel Martin , Skoda Eva-Maria
Published: April 2021

(1) The aim of the study is to assess the psychological burden of individuals with diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic in comparison to matched controls. (2) Over the course of eight weeks, 9 April to 3 June 2020, 253 individuals with diabetes and 253 matched controls, using Propensity Score Matching (PSM), participated in this cross-sectional study. Participants completed an anonymous survey including demographics, depressive symptoms (PHQ-2), generalized anxiety (GAD-7), COVID-19-related fear, risk perception, and safety behavior. (3) While patients with diabetes expected their risk of infection similar to controls, they reported a higher probability of the occurrence of symptoms, severe course, and dying of COVID-19. Patients with diabetes showed no elevated generalized anxiety or depressive symptoms. However, they reported higher COVID-19-related fear and more adherent and dysfunctional safety behavior compared to controls. (4) From a public health view, it seems encouraging that despite the somatic risk condition, generalized anxiety and depression are not higher in patients with diabetes than in controls. Patients with diabetes report higher COVID-19-related fear, increased risk perception, and behavioral changes. This suggests that individuals with diabetes, as a significant risk group of severe COVID-19, show an adequate perception and functional reaction to the current pandemic.
CORONAcrisis—An Observational Study on the Experience of Healthcare Professionals in a University Hospital during a Pandemic Emergency
Authors: Matarazzo Teresa , Bravi Francesca , Valpiani Giorgia , Morotti Chiara , Martino Francesca , Bombardi Sandra , Bozzolan Michela , Longhitano Elda , Bardasi Paola , Roberto De Vogli , Carradori Tiziano
Published: April 2021

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to affect millions worldwide and has posed unique challenges to healthcare professionals. Caring for patients during a pandemic may have negative impacts on their mental health. We describe the first part of a study using a mixed-method sequential explanatory design (QUANT→QUAL). This quantitative part examines the experiences of healthcare professionals during the pandemic in a University Hospital in Italy. We performed a cross-sectional hospital-based survey involving all healthcare professionals between 19 May 2020 and 3 June 2020. Perceived Stress Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire, and General Anxiety Disorder scores were calculated, in order to assess how the pandemic emergency changed the occupational and social habits of the healthcare professionals. The mean age of the 275 respondents was 47 years and females accounted for 80.2%. A total of 29.8% had a Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) score ≥25, 22.9% scored ≥15 on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) scale, and 17.1% scored ≥15 on the General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) scale. Stress symptoms were mostly manifested for interviewees over 55, females, those who live far from their family, those who have only one child, and those who had a qualification lower than high school or who had a medical specialization. Our findings show a relevant level of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression in up to 30% of the sample, highlighting a significant psychological burden in all professionals.
Rasch Validation of the VF-14 Scale of Vision-Specific Functioning in Greek Patients
Authors: Mylona Ioanna , Aletras Vassilis , Ziakas Nikolaos , Tsinopoulos Ioannis
Published: April 2021

The Visual Functioning-14 (VF-14) scale is the most widely employed index of vision-related functional impairment and serves as a patient-reported outcome measure in vision-specific quality of life. The purpose of this study is to rigorously examine and validate the VF-14 scale on a Greek population of ophthalmic patients employing Rasch measurement techniques. Two cohorts of patients were sampled in two waves. The first cohort included 150 cataract patients and the second 150 patients with other ophthalmic diseases. The patients were sampled first while pending surgical or other corrective therapy and two months after receiving therapy. The original 14-item VF-14 demonstrated poor measurement precision and disordered response category thresholds. A revised eight-item version, the VF-8G (‘G’ for ‘Greek’), was tested and confirmed for validity in the cataract research population. No differential functioning was reported for gender, age, and underlying disorder. Improvement in the revised scale correlated with improvement in the mental and physical component of the general health scale SF-36. In conclusion, our findings support the use of the revised form of the VF-14 for assessment of vision-specific functioning and quality of life improvement in populations with cataracts and other visual diseases than cataracts, a result that has not been statistically confirmed previously.
The Health Literacy Status and Its Role in Interventions in Iran: A Systematic and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tavakoly Sany Seyedeh Belin , Doosti Hassan , Mahdizadeh Mehrsadat , Orooji Arezoo , Peyman Nooshin
Published: April 2021

There are increasing calls for public health policies to realize the visions of a health literate society and health literacy on a global scale. However, there are still more gaps in what researchers recognize and what steps they should take to improve health literacy (HL) skills. This review aimed to measure the HL status of the Iranian population and the effect size of the underlying association between HL and other health outcomes, and to examine the effectiveness of HL interventions on improving the functional dimension of HL, self-efficacy, and health-promoting behaviors. All full text published articles written in English and Persian language were included from inception until January 2019, but the type of study is not limited. A total of 52 potentially relevant articles with data on 36,523 participants were included in this review. In the population with health conditions, the average HL score was 62.51 (95% CI: 59.95–65.08), while in the patient population, the HL score was 64.04 (95% CI: 60.64–67.45). Health literacy was positively and significantly correlated with self-care behaviors 0.42 (95% CI; 0.35–0.49), self-efficacy 0.35 (95% CI; 0.26–0.43), knowledge 0.50 (95% CI; 0.44–0.55), communication skills 0.33 (95% CI; 0.25–0.41), and health promotion behaviors 0.39 (95% CI; 0.35–0.44). The meta-analyses showed that overall, HL interventions significantly improved HL status, self-efficacy, and health promotion behaviors. Results indicate that HL status was in the range of marginal HL level in the Iranian population. Our finding highlights the beneficial impact of HL intervention on health-promoting behaviors and self-efficacy, particularly in low literacy/socioeconomic status people.
Are Essential Women’s Healthcare Services Fully Covered? A Comparative Analysis of Policy Documents in Shanghai and New York City from 1978–2017
Authors: Zhou Qingyu , Yu Qinwen , Wang Xin , Shi Peiwu , Shen Qunhong , Zhang Zhaoyang , Chen Zheng , Pu Chuan , Xu Lingzhong , Hu Zhi , Ma Anning , Gong Zhaohui , Xu Tianqiang , Wang Panshi , Wang Hua , Hao Chao , Li Li , Gao Xiang , Li Chengyue , Hao Mo
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to analyze the changes in the 10 major categories of women’s healthcare services (WHSs) in Shanghai (SH) and New York City (NYC) from 1978 to 2017, and examine the relationship between these changes and maternal mortality ratio (MMR). Content analysis of available public policy documents concerning women’s health was conducted. Two indicators were designed to represent the delivery of WHSs: The essential women’s healthcare service coverage rate (ESCR) and the assessable essential healthcare service coverage rate (AESCR). Spearman correlation was used to analyze the relationship between the two indicators and MMR. In SH, the ESCR increased from 10% to 90%, AESCR increased from 0% to 90%, and MMR decreased from 24.0/100,000 to 1.01/100,000. In NYC, the ESCR increased from 0% to 80%, the AESCR increased from 0% to 60%, and the MMR decreased from 24.7/100,000 to 21.4/100,000. The MMR significantly decreased as both indicators increased (p < 0.01). Major advances have been made in women’s healthcare in both cities, with SH having a better improvement effect. A common shortcoming for both was the lack of menopausal health service provision. The promotion of women’s health still needs to receive continuous attention from governments of SH and NYC. The experiences of the two cities showed that placing WHSs among policy priorities is effective in improving service status.
A Systematic Review of Augmented Reality in Health Sciences: A Guide to Decision-Making in Higher Education
Authors: Rodríguez-Abad Carlos , Fernández-de-la-Iglesia Josefa-del-Carmen , Martínez-Santos Alba-Elena , Rodríguez-González Raquel
Published: April 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the usability of the augmented reality (AR) in higher education in the area of health sciences to describe what type of interventions have been developed, their impact on various psychopedagogical aspects of the students as well as the main advantages, disadvantages and challenges in incorporating AR in the teaching-learning process. A systematic review was carried out in the CINAHL, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Web of Science databases and the Google Scholar search engine. The search was limited to original research articles written in English, Spanish or Portuguese since 2014. The quality of the selected articles (n = 19) was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). The applications and electronic devices used and the measurement instruments used were described. The use of AR made it easier for students to acquire skills, especially in courses with a high component of three-dimensional visualization, and positively influenced various aspects of the learning process such as motivation, satisfaction or autonomous learning. As an educational technological tool applied to higher education in health sciences, AR improves the teaching-learning process by influencing it in a multidimensional way.
The Association between Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Reported Physical Activity with Sleep Quality in Apparently Healthy Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Osailan Ahmad M. , Elnaggar Ragab K. , Alsubaie Saud F. , Alqahtani Bader A. , Abdelbasset Walid Kamal
Published: April 2021

Background: Recently, poor cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) has been postulated as an adverse health outcome related to poor sleep quality. However, studies investigating the relationship between CRF and a subjective sleep quality index are scarce. Thus, the current study aimed to investigate the association between CRF and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) in apparently healthy people. The secondary aim was to investigate the association between reported physical activity (PA) and PSQI. Methods: Thirty-three healthy male participants volunteered to participate. CRF (VO2PEAK) was measured via cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a treadmill. A short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to measure PA, and PSQI was used for the sleep quality index. Results: There was no correlation between CRF and PSQI total score or any component of the PSQI. There was a significant inverse correlation between IPAQ and PSQI total score (r = −0.36, p = 0.04). Categorical data analysis of the two questionnaires revealed that 42.4% of the participants who reported low physical activity also had poor sleep quality. Conclusions: The current study showed no association between CRF and the subjective sleep quality index but demonstrated a moderate inverse association between reported PA and subjective sleep quality index. The findings suggest that the more reported PA, the better the overall sleep quality.
Probiotic Supplements on Oncology Patients’ Treatment-Related Side Effects: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Rodriguez-Arrastia Miguel , Martinez-Ortigosa Adrian , Rueda-Ruzafa Lola , Folch Ayora Ana , Ropero-Padilla Carmen
Published: April 2021

Cancer affects more than 19.3 million people and has become the second leading cause of death worldwide. Chemo- and radiotherapy, the most common procedures in these patients, often produce unpleasant treatment-related side effects that have a direct impact on the quality of life of these patients. However, innovative therapeutic strategies such as probiotics are being implemented to manage these complications. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics supplements as a therapeutic strategy in adult oncology treatment-related side effects. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials was conducted in PubMed, Scielo, ProQuest and OVID databases up to and including January 2021, following the PRISMA guidelines. The quality of the included studies was assessed by the Jadad Scale. Twenty clinical trials published between 1988 and 2020 were included in this review. Seventeen studies (85%) revealed predominantly positive results when using probiotics to reduce the incidence of treatment-related side effects in oncology patients, while three studies (15%) reported no impact in their findings. This study sheds some light on the significance of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in altering the composition of gut microbiota, where probiotic strains may play an important role in preventing or mitigating treatment-related side effects.
Medication Experience and Adherence to Oral Chemotherapy: A Qualitative Study of Patients’ and Health Professionals’ Perspectives
Authors: Talens Amparo , Guilabert Mercedes , Lumbreras Blanca , Aznar María Teresa , López-Pintor Elsa
Published: April 2021

Lack of adherence constitutes one of the most important challenges in patients undergoing treatment with oral antineoplastic drugs (ANEO). Understanding cancer patients’ experiences with respect to their medication is key for optimizing adherence and therapeutic results. We aimed to assess the medication experience (ME) in patients with cancer in treatment with ANEO, to describe the barriers and facilitators related to the disease and its treatment and to compare them with the healthcare professionals’ perspectives. We carried out an exploratory qualitative study in the University Hospital of San Juan de Alicante, Spain. Three focus groups and two nominal group discussions were conducted with 23 onco-hematological patients treated with ANEO and 18 health professionals, respectively. The data were analyzed using content analyses and were eventually triangulated. The most impactful aspects in patients’ ME were the presence of adverse effects; lack of information about treatment; beliefs, needs and expectations regarding medications; social and family support; and the relationship with the health professionals. Both patients and professionals agreed on considering the negative side effects and the information about treatment as the main barriers and facilitators of adherence, respectively, although the approaches differed between both profiles. The professionals offered a more technical vision while patients prioritized the emotional burden and motivation associated with the disease and medication. This study allowed us to understand the real-life experiences of patients being treated with ANEO and explore the factors which had an impact on adherence to treatment. This understanding enables professionals to have a positive influence on patients’ behavior and provide individualized care plans. Pharmacists’ assistance is relevant to support patients’ adherence and self-management.
Communication Abilities of Children with DoC after Severe Brain Injury in ICF Frames
Authors: Rasmus Anna , Orłowska Edyta
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The ability to communicate is one of the fundamental factors underlying human relationships. Severe brain damage and disorders of consciousness may indispose a person to participate in everyday social and family life. In spite of this fact, however, the issue of holistic approach to communication in the context of severe traumatic brain injury is still not well explained and described. The goal of this article is to introduce a profile of nonverbal behavior of children with disorders of consciousness. Materials and methods: The study included 30 children with minimal conscious state after severe brain trauma, aged between 7 and 16 years old. Research was conducted using the Coma Recovery Scale—Revised and the Bykova–Lukyanov Scale of Communication Activity. Results: Significant differences in communication level between investigated groups were demonstrated, both in Body Function (F = 9.184; p < 0.001) and Activity and Participation (F = 13.100; p < 0.001). Conclusions: It is possible to map and classify communication ability of children with minimal conscious state by using International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) protocol and the Bykova–Lukyanov Scale of Communication Activity, with specific consideration of Activities and Participation factors. This approach reveals differences in communication and disability level between children with minimal conscious state plus (MSC+) and minimal conscious state minus (MSC−).
“When They See a Wheelchair, They’ve Not Even Seen Me”—Factors Shaping the Experience of Disability Stigma and Discrimination in Kenya
Authors: Barbareschi Giulia , Carew Mark T. , Johnson Elizabeth Aderonke , Kopi Norah , Holloway Catherine
Published: April 2021

Disability stigma in many low- and middle-income countries represents one of the most pervasive barriers preventing people with disabilities from accessing equal rights and opportunities, including the uptake of available assistive technology (AT). Previous studies have rarely examined how disability stigma may be shaped through factors endemic to social interactions, including how the use of assistive technology itself may precipitate or alleviate disability stigma. Through two strands of work, we address this gap. Via a series of focus groups with Kenyans without disabilities (Study 1) and secondary data analysis of consultations with Kenyans with disabilities and their allies (Study 2), we identify shared and divergent understandings of what shapes disability stigma and discrimination. Specifically, Kenyans with and without disabilities were cognizant of how religious/spiritual interpretations of disability, conceptions of impairments as “different” from the norm, and social stereotypes about (dis)ability shaped the experience of stigma and discrimination. Moreover, both groups highlighted assistive technology as an influential factor that served to identify or “mark” someone as having a disability. However, whereas participants without disabilities saw assistive technology purely as an enabler to overcome stigma, participants with disabilities also noted that, in some cases, use of assistive technologies would attract stigma from others.
Does Head Orientation Influence 3D Facial Imaging? A Study on Accuracy and Precision of Stereophotogrammetric Acquisition
Authors: Battistoni Giuditta , Cassi Diana , Magnifico Marisabel , Pedrazzi Giuseppe , Di Blasio Marco , Vaienti Benedetta , Di Blasio Alberto
Published: April 2021

This study investigates the reliability and precision of anthropometric measurements collected from 3D images and acquired under different conditions of head rotation. Various sources of error were examined, and the equivalence between craniofacial data generated from alternative head positions was assessed. 3D captures of a mannequin head were obtained with a stereophotogrammetric system (Face Shape 3D MaxiLine). Image acquisition was performed with no rotations and with various pitch, roll, and yaw angulations. On 3D images, 14 linear distances were measured. Various indices were used to quantify error magnitude, among them the acquisition error, the mean and the maximum intra- and inter-operator measurement error, repeatability and reproducibility error, the standard deviation, and the standard error of errors. Two one-sided tests (TOST) were performed to assess the equivalence between measurements recorded in different head angulations. The maximum intra-operator error was very low (0.336 mm), closely followed by the acquisition error (0.496 mm). The maximum inter-operator error was 0.532 mm, and the highest degree of error was found in reproducibility (0.890 mm). Anthropometric measurements from alternative acquisition conditions resulted in significantly equivalent TOST, with the exception of Zygion (l)–Tragion (l) and Cheek (l)–Tragion (l) distances measured with pitch angulation compared to no rotation position. Face Shape 3D Maxiline has sufficient accuracy for orthodontic and surgical use. Precision was not altered by head orientation, making the acquisition simpler and not constrained to a critical precision as in 2D photographs.
Spatial and Social Behavior of Single and Coupled Individuals of Both Sexes during COVID-19 Lockdown Regime in Russia
Authors: Semenova Olga , Apalkova Julia , Butovskaya Marina
Published: April 2021

Testing individual motivations for social activity in violation of the mandated lockdown regime is a challenging research topic for evolutionary psychology. To this purpose, we analyzed twenty popular weekly routes and the potential impact of sex and relationship status (single versus coupled) on the reported level of spatial-social activity during the quarantine in Russia between March and June 2020 (N = 492). Our study revealed a significant difference between men’s and women’s mobility: men, in general, tend to exhibit substantially higher spatial activity. The results have shown that individuals living on their own have more social interactions with friends and exhibit more profound spatial mobility via public transport. On the other hand, spatial activity of coupled individuals of both sexes were mostly devoted to solving a list of economic and matrimonial tasks. At the same time, men already cohabiting with a partner leave their homes for dating purposes more frequently than single men and women. We interpret these findings in the sense that both individual and sex-specific differences in observed sociality could be a result of a fine-tuned adaptive populational response to a contemporary virus threat, predominantly rooted in the evolution of behavioral strategies in the reproductive and economic spheres of each sex. Indeed, unlike women, coupled men have been preserving highly risky and intense social behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Intergenerational Factors Influencing Household Cohabitation in Urban China: Chengdu
Authors: Wang Meimei , Yang Yongchun , Liu Mengqin , Yu Huailiang
Published: April 2021

Family composition impacts individual consumption habits, which may potentially transform urban integral space structure. Due to the reform in the housing system at the end of the 1990s and increases in residents’ income, houses became more affordable, and intergenerational household cohabitation is no longer the primary pattern. Nonetheless, as families change, it still remains an important form of family composition. Intergenerational support is important in household habitation. This study examines the temporal changes and the structure of intergenerational household cohabitation. Moreover, intergenerational factors in groups of all genders and ages are analyzed. We found that intergenerational household cohabitation in Chengdu comprises three structures: elders living with married children, elders living with unmarried children, and elders living with grandchildren. According to multiple logistic regression, we can see that inadequate housing, economy of costs, cases of emergency, fear of loneliness, care of grandchildren, and poor health have marked effects on household cohabitation, and the positive or negative effects are distinct regarding different structures. To be more specific, the significance of financial support in family composition decreases, and that of support in daily care increases with age. The influence of financial support, daily care support, and emotional support peaks among those aged between 35–60, followed by individuals under 35, and those aged over 60. Financial support is comparatively important for individuals under 35, and females attach more importance to emotional support in intergenerational household cohabitation. The findings provide a basis for subsequent studies of family composition.
Factors Influencing Quality of Care Service of Caregivers for Preschoolers
Authors: Jung Soyeon , Hong Younhee , Sok Sohyune
Published: April 2021

The number of households that have benefited from childcare support services has steadily increased, while the number of caregivers has also climbed. Studies on the care service of childcare providers are needed. This study was to examine and identify the factors influencing the degree of quality of care service for preschoolers among caregivers. A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed. Samples included 138 caregivers for preschoolers in health family support centers, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea. Data included the general characteristics of study participants, quality of care service for preschoolers, childcare efficacy, job satisfaction, and caregiver–child interaction. Data were collected from June to August 2019. The factors influencing the quality of care service for preschoolers among caregivers were caregiver–child interaction. The explanatory power of the final regression model was 37%. This study suggests that the caregiver–child interaction should be improved to improve the quality of care service for preschoolers among caregivers, and health professionals need to pay attention to this issue in community fields. The findings from this study can be implied on health policy for childcare support service.
Changes in Muscle Oxygen Saturation Measured Using Wireless Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Resistance Training: A Systematic Review
Authors: Miranda-Fuentes Claudia , Chirosa-Ríos Luis Javier , Guisado-Requena Isabel María , Delgado-Floody Pedro , Jerez-Mayorga Daniel
Published: April 2021

Background: This study aimed to report, through a systematic review of the literature, the baseline and final reference values obtained by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) of muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) during resistance training in healthy adults. Methods: Original research studies were searched from four databases (Scopus, PubMed, WOS, and SportDiscus). Subsequently, three independent reviewers screened the titles and abstracts, followed by full-text reviews to assess the studies’ eligibility. Results: Four studies met the inclusion criteria, data were extracted and methodological quality was assessed using the Downs and Black scale. Muscle oxygen saturation (% SmO2) during reported muscle strength exercises showed a decreasing trend after a muscle strength protocol; that is, before the protocol (range = 68.07–77.9%) and after (range = 9.50–46.09%). Conclusions: The trend of the SmO2 variables is to decrease after a muscle strength protocol. Studies are lacking that allow expanding the use of these devices during this type of training.
Factors Influencing Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Older Adults in Rural Areas: Oral Dryness and Oral Health Knowledge and Behavior
Authors: Choi Eunju , Jung Dukyoo
Published: April 2021

The oral health of older adults is an important factor affecting their overall health and quality of life. This study aimed to identify the characteristics of oral health of older adults living at home in rural areas and investigate factors affecting oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), especially oral dryness and oral health knowledge and behavior. A descriptive correlational study was conducted. In total, 117 participants were included in the final analysis. Data were collected using questionnaires for oral dryness, oral health knowledge and behavior, and OHRQoL. In addition, oral dryness was measured by mechanical measurements. Oral health knowledge was positively correlated with oral health behavior (r = 0.18, p = 0.029) and OHRQoL (r = 0.25, p = 0.003). In addition, a positive correlation between oral health behavior and OHRQoL (r = 0.24, p = 0.005) was observed. Multiple regression analysis revealed that subjective oral dryness (β = −4.99, p = 0.001) had a significant effect on OHRQoL. To improve OHRQoL in the rural elderly, health providers should pay attention to oral dryness and comprehensively evaluate it. The development of prevention programs and continuous education that can improve oral health knowledge and behavior is also required.
Korean Version of the Swedish Occupational Fatigue Inventory among Construction Workers: Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Evaluation
Authors: Lee Sangeun , Seong Sojeong , Park Soyeon , Lim Jeeyeon , Hong Soyun , Cho Youngshin , Kim Heejung
Published: April 2021

The Swedish Occupational Fatigue Inventory (SOFI) has been tested in different languages and populations; thus, there is a need for a culturally adapted Korean version. We evaluated the psychometric properties of a Korean version of the SOFI among construction workers. The SOFI was translated into Korean and reviewed through a back-translation process involving standardized scaling procedures. Its reliability and validity were evaluated with a sample of 193 construction workers using internal consistency, item–subscale correlations, test–retest reliability, and content, construct, and concurrent validity. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of the total scale and each subscale were satisfactory. Item–subscale correlations and test–retest reliability were both at acceptable levels. Confirmatory factor analyses revealed that the five-factor model had acceptable model fits corresponding to the structure of the original instrument. However, some modifications were made to improve in the new context from model fit (such as χ2(95) = 113.905 (p = 0.091), CFI = 0.994, and RMSEA = 0.033, as well as the lowest AIC = 383.905). Correlation analysis showed a significant relationship of SOFI with other fatigue measures in terms of total and subscale scores. Occupational fatigue is one of the important risk factors associated with workers’ health and safety at work. The new translated instrument is a reliable and valid tool for assessing fatigue among Korean construction workers. However, this instrument should be tested extensively in other working populations to devise specific interventions concerning fatigue reduction.
COVID-19 Severity and Neonatal BCG Vaccination among Young Population in Taiwan
Authors: Su Wei-Ju , Chang Chia-Hsuin , Wang Jiun-Ling , Chen Shu-Fong , Yang Chin-Hui
Published: April 2021

Background: Data have not been reported to explore the relation between COVID-19 severity and BCG vaccination status at the individual patient level. Methods: Taiwan has a nationwide neonatal BCG vaccination program that was launched in 1965. The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control established a web-based National Immunization Information System (NISS) in 2003 and included all citizens’ BCG vaccination records in NISS for those born after 1985. We identified COVID-19 Taiwanese patients born after 1985 between 21 January and 19 March 2021. Study participants were further classified into ages 4–24 years (birth year 1996–2016) and 25–33 years (birth year 1986–1995). We described their clinical syndrome defined by the World Health Organization and examined the relation between the COVID-19 severity and BCG vaccination status. Results: In the 4–24 age group, among 138 BCG vaccinated individuals, 80.4% were asymptomatic or had mild disease, while 17.4% had moderate disease, 1.5% had severe disease, and 0.7% had acute respiratory distress syndrome but none of them died. In contrast, all 6 BCG unvaccinated individuals in this age group experienced mild illness. In the 25–33 age group, moderate disease occurred in 14.2% and severe disease occurred in 0.9% of the 106 patients without neonatal BCG vaccination records, as compared to 19.2% had moderate disease and none had severe or critical disease of the 78 patients with neonatal BCG vaccination records. Conclusions: Our finding indicated that BCG immunization might not relate to COVID-19 severity in the young population.
Tooth Position in Wind Instrument Players: Dentofacial Cephalometric Analysis
Authors: Clemente Miguel Pais , Moreira André , Morais Catarina , Amarante José Manuel , Ferreira Afonso Pinhão , Mendes Joaquim
Published: April 2021

Background: Specific dentofacial characteristics in wind instrumentalists should be taken in consideration when analyzing physiological and anatomical issues regarding the musician’s embouchure, posture, and biomechanics during musical performance. Objectives: To compare tooth cephalometric characteristics between wind instrument players and string players (overjet, overbite, lower facial height, facial convexity, lower incisor inclination, and interincisal angle). Methods: In total, 48 wind instrumentalists (67%) and 24 string instrumentalists (33%). These musicians performed lateral tele-radiography and the correspondent linear and angular measurements of the dentofacial cephalometric analysis. Statistical comparison of wind and string instrumentalists was made by using an independent t-test. Results: Small variations on the analyzed parameters were found between the wind and string instrument groups. Based on the cephalometric analysis the variable interincisal angle was statistically significant (p < 0.05), when comparing the wind and string instrument group. Conclusions: Knowledge of the overjet and overbite value permits a substantial analysis on the tooth position of wind instrument players, where both of these parameters are increased and greater than the norm value. The cephalometry was an added value on the interpretation of possible factors that lead to the position of the central incisors of wind instruments. Till some extent in this group of musicians the applied forces during the embouchure mechanism on the anterior teeth and the existing perioral forces promote an equilibrium on the vector of forces. This study findings demonstrate that when evaluating the two samples, wind and string instruments there are different dentofacial configurations, however the only statistically significant differences that were found are related to the interincisal angle (p < 0.05).
Evaluations of Muscular Strength, Ability to Balance and Health Status in Prisoners during COVID-19
Authors: Moffa Stefano , Perna Angelica , Cattolico Alessandro , Sellitto Carmine , Ascione Antonio , Tafuri Domenico , Guerra Germano , Lucariello Angela
Published: April 2021

Recent events in prisons during the COVID-19 pandemic showed how the health situation and overcrowding in prisons are a source of high risk to the health and physical and mental well-being of the prison population and how this has become an important medical problem. The original purpose of this study, which was initially planned to last 6 months, was to examine the effects of a training program on cardio-respiratory capacity, resistance to dynamic strength of the upper and lower body and muscle mass. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the purpose was subsequently modified by highlighting whether and which deficiencies occurred as a result of the absence of physical activity. Forty adult men between 35 and 55 years of age with more than 1 year of detention were selected and randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group and control group. The fitness training protocol of the experimental group consisted of three weekly sessions lasting 90 min, while control group subjects followed a walk of 30–60 min three days a week without running or resistance training. The unpaired and paired t-tests revealed significant effects of both health status and fitness level (p < 0.05; p < 0.01) on group training. The results of this research show that prisoners can improve their fitness and health through participation in physical education programs. This conclusion is especially important for prisoners who have to serve very long prison sentences and who are at great risk of showing poor physical condition levels.
Using Decision Trees to Support Classifiers’ Decision-Making about Activity Limitation of Cerebral Palsy Footballers
Authors: Sarabia José M. , Roldan Alba , Henríquez Matías , Reina Raul
Published: April 2021

This study aimed (1) to determine the appropriateness of using decision trees as a classification tool for determining the allocation of sport classes of para-footballers with “moderate vs. mild” cerebral palsy (CP) profiles of spastic diplegia/hemiplegia and ataxia/athetosis based on observational outcomes by international classifiers, and (2) to identify what key observational features were relevant to discriminating among different impairment levels. A sample of 16 experienced international classifiers from five world regions participated in this study, observing activity limitation of a final sample of 21 international CP footballers when performing 16 gross-motor and sports-specific tests for balance (n = 3), coordination (n = 5), running, accelerations and decelerations (n = 3), jumping (n = 4), and change of direction ability (n = 1). For the overall sample (336 observations), the model included eight decision nodes and 24 branches with 17 leaves, including side-step, side-stepping, and triple hop as the tests with the best sensitivity (precision = 67.0%). For those with spastic diplegia (64 observations: Two nodes, six branches with five leaves), the range of motion in the side-step test and the balance in the tandem walk tests correctly classified 89.1% of the observations. In those with athetosis and ataxia (96 observations), the model included five nodes, 15 branches, and 11 leaves (176 observations, precision = 86.5%). For those with spastic hemiplegia, a model containing two nodes, six branches, and five leaves had 90.9% accuracy, including observational features of balance in the side-step test and symmetry in the side-stepping test. The observational tool used in this study, based on the impact of specific impairment measurements of hypertonia, athetosis, and ataxia, can be used to determine which assessments are more appropriate for discriminating between functional profiles in para-footballers with CP.
The Effect of Cigarillo Packaging Characteristics on Young Adult Perceptions and Intentions: An Experimental Study
Authors: Delnevo Cristine D. , Jeong Michelle , Ganz Ollie , Giovenco Daniel P. , Miller Lo Erin
Published: April 2021

Research demonstrates that characteristics of cigarette packaging influence consumer product perceptions, yet the current literature on the impact of cigar packaging is limited. This study aims to examine how different cigarillo packaging features influence young adult cigar smokers’ perceptions. In 2016, we recruited past-year cigar users aged 18–34 from Amazon Mechanical Turk (N = 1260). We utilized a 2 × 2 × 3 × 2 between-subjects factorial design, randomly assigning participants to view one of 24 images of a cigarillo package that varied by brand (Black & Mild vs. Swisher Sweets), brand name (full vs. abbreviated), color (brown vs. green vs. purple), and price promotion (present vs. absent). Participants rated the product on several perceptions and purchase intentions, and they reported on cigar use and demographics. Overall, color and brand name influenced perceptions, but effects varied by brand. For Swisher Sweets, only price promotions influenced perceptions (e.g., taste, use for marijuana); for Black & Mild, all packaging features influenced perceptions (e.g., harshness, tobacco quality), and price promotions increased purchase intentions. Our findings also raise questions that product features may interact with one another, with certain features, such as color, overpowering other attributes. More research is needed to understand the impact of other packaging features, such as warning labels, on product perceptions across a variety of brands.
Modeling the Distribution of Human Mobility Metrics with Online Car-Hailing Data—An Empirical Study in Xi’an, China
Authors: Shi Chaoyang , Li Qingquan , Lu Shiwei , Yang Xiping
Published: April 2021

Modeling the distribution of daily and hourly human mobility metrics is beneficial for studying underlying human travel patterns. In previous studies, some probability distribution functions were employed in order to establish a base for human mobility research. However, the selection of the most suitable distribution is still a challenging task. In this paper, we focus on modeling the distributions of travel distance, travel time, and travel speed. The daily and hourly trip data are fitted with several candidate distributions, and the best one is selected based on the Bayesian information criterion. A case study with online car-hailing data in Xi’an, China, is presented to demonstrate and evaluate the model fit. The results indicate that travel distance and travel time of daily and hourly human mobility tend to follow Gamma distribution, and travel speed can be approximated by Burr distribution. These results can contribute to a better understanding of online car-hailing travel patterns and establish a base for human mobility research.
Virus-Mediated Targeted DNA Methylation Illuminates the Dynamics of Methylation in an Endogenous Plant Gene
Authors: Atsumi Go , Matsuo Kouki , Fukuzawa Noriho , Matsumura Takeshi
Published: April 2021

DNA methylation maintains genome stability and regulates gene expression in plants. RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) is critical for appropriate methylation. However, no efficient tools are available for the investigation of the functions of specific DNA methylation. In this study, the cucumber mosaic virus vector was used for targeted DNA methylation. Methylation was rapidly induced but gradually decreased from the 3′ end of the target endogenous sequence in Nicotiana benthamiana, suggesting a mechanism to protect against the ectopic introduction of DNA methylation. Increasing 24-nt siRNAs blocked this reduction in methylation by down-regulating DCL2 and DCL4. RdDM relies on the sequence identity between RNA and genomic DNA; however, this identity does not appear to be the sole determinant for efficient DNA methylation. The current findings provide new insight into the regulation of DNA methylation and promote additional effort to develop efficient targeted DNA methylation in plants.