Increased complexity of Tmem16a/Anoctamin 1 transcript alternative splicing

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>TMEM16A (Anoctamin 1; ANO1) is an eight transmembrane protein that functions as a calcium-activated chloride channel. <it>TMEM16A </it>in human exhibits alternatively spliced exons (6b, 13 and 15), which confer important roles in the regulation of channel function. Mouse <it>Tmem16a </it>is reported to consist of 25 exons that code for a 956 amino acid protein. In this study our aim was to provide details of mouse <it>Tmem16a </it>genomic structure and to investigate if <it>Tmem16a </it>transcript undergoes alternative splicing to generate channel diversity.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>We identified <it>Tmem16a </it>transcript variants consisting of alternative exons 6b, 10, 13, 14, 15 and 18. Our findings indicate that many of these exons are expressed in various combinations and that these splicing events are mostly conserved between mouse and human. In addition, we confirmed the expression of these exon variants in other mouse tissues. Additional splicing events were identified including a novel conserved exon 13b, tandem splice sites of exon 1 and 21 and two intron retention events.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Our results suggest that <it>Tmem16a </it>gene is significantly more complex than previously described. The complexity is especially evident in the region spanning exons 6 through 16 where a number of the alternative splicing events are thought to affect calcium sensitivity, voltage dependence and the kinetics of activation and deactivation of this calcium-activated chloride channel. The identification of multiple <it>Tmem16a </it>splice variants suggests that alternative splicing is an exquisite mechanism that operates to diversify TMEM16A channel function in both physiological and pathophysiological conditions.</p

A situational analysis of tobacco control in Ghana: progress, opportunities and challenges

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable deaths in the world, with most of these deaths now occurring in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is at an early stage of a tobacco epidemic and is, therefore, particularly vulnerable to rapid growth in tobacco consumption. More than a decade into the implementation of the World Health Organization's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), State Parties in several countries in SSA, such as Ghana, have yet to fully fulfill their obligations. Despite early ratification of the FCTC in 2004, progress in implementing tobacco control measures in Ghana has been slow and much work remains to be done. The aim of this paper is to critically reflect on tobacco control implementation in Ghana, identify significant research priorities and make recommendations for future action to support tobacco control implementation. We emphasize the need for stronger implementation of the FCTC and its MPOWER policy package, particularly in the area of tobacco taxes, illicit trade and industry interference

Narrowing the "digital divide" - facilitating access to computer technology to enhance the lives of those with aphasia: a feasibility study

Background: Despite advances in technology and the universal accessibility of the Internet, the aptly named “digital divide” still prevents equal access to, and use of, computer technology by people with aphasia. The use of technology has clear potential for improved quality of life in terms of increased methods for communicating as well as the facilitation of self-management; however, substantial barriers still pervade. Aims: The aims of this study were to evaluate a bespoke computer training course appropriate for people with aphasia and examine the personal experiences of a small sample of individuals with aphasia following their participation on the course. Methods & Procedures: This feasibility study with mixed-methods evaluation recruited participants with a range of aphasia severity and different experiences in using computers. Participants (n = 17) discussed their personal experiences of attending the computer course, gathered through topic-guided small focus groups, immediately postcourse and follow-up Refresher class. A Framework Method approach was considered an appropriate methodological design and data were analysed using thematic analysis. Participants also self-rated their skills in using computers before and following this bespoke computer course (n = 16) and at follow-up (n = 10), which was statistically analysed. Outcomes & Results: Statistically significant differences were found in the improved self-rated ability of a range of computer skills following course attendance. However, participants who attended a Refresher class (5, 9, or 12 months following course completion) reported that without support a number of these skills had notably declined. Three main themes emerged from the focus group data: (i) Facilitation of Social Engagement—technology offered new opportunities to communicate and more independently self-manage day-to-day tasks; (ii) Course Framework—participants reflected on their preferred model of delivery of the course; and finally (iii) Overcoming Barriers to Technology—the advantages of bespoke computer training, and requirements for ongoing support were highlighted as essential components of a training course appropriate for people with aphasia. Conclusions: The personal experiences of this group of people with aphasia highlight the advantages of accessing technology as a way of facilitating increased communication and an enhanced ability to manage their day-to-day lives. Yet, despite these benefits and the necessity for many people with aphasia to learn or relearn computer skills, finding courses that can accommodate individual needs is problematic. This research highlights the need for bespoke computer training and follow-on support, and highlights the necessary components of such training as identified by this group of people with aphasia

Online exhibitions management framework

The University of Queensland (UQ) Library’s Strategic Plan (2013 - 2017) outlined the need for increased emphasis on digitisation and promotion of unique collections. Consequently, in 2015-6, UQ Library undertook a project to explore a coherent approach to UQ Library’s growing digitised collections.From a review of the current state, an environmental scan of emerging technologies, and comparison of potential platforms, the project identified:• issues sustaining and maintaining online exhibitions;• the need to broaden the Library’s approach in this area to make use of emerging technologies; and• the need to enable others to use our digitised collections

Incentives as connectors : insights into a breastfeeding incentive intervention in a disadvantaged area of North-West England

PMID: 22458841 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] PMCID: PMC3414740 Free PMC ArticlePeer reviewedPublisher PD

Adherence to smoke-free policies in Ghana: Findings from a cross-sectional survey of hospitality venue owners and staff

Introduction: Implementation of and compliance with smoke-free policies (SFPs) can be problematic in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to limited resources. This study evaluated knowledge, opinions and compliance related to Ghana’s SFPs among owners and staff of hospitality venues by city, staff designation, and venue type. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used in venue types including hotels, bars, pubs and restaurants in the three cities of Kumasi, Accra, and Tamale, in Ghana. Data were collected between July and September 2019. Interviewer administered face-to-face surveys were conducted with owners and staff (n=142) recruited from randomly selected hospitality venues (n=154) in these three large cities of Ghana. The relationship between knowledge, opinions, and compliance items on SFPs, and city, venue type and staff designation was first studied using χ2 or a Fisher’s exact test, and then with univariate logistic regression model analysis. Results: Of the 142 respondents, some had heard of Ghana’s 2012 Tobacco Control Act (27.5%), smoking restriction in public places (29%), smoke-free places (22%), and display of ‘no smoking’ signage (6.3%). Knowledge levels were higher in Accra compared to Tamale (OR=3.08; 95% CI: 1.10–8.60). Staff designation and type of venue did not have any relationship with knowledge levels. Support for SFPs was over 80%, but opinions in support of SFPs were lower in Accra than Tamale (OR=0.25; 95% CI: 0.08–0.71). Compliance with SFPs was similar in the three cities. Hotels were three times more compliant compared to bars and pubs (OR=3.16; 95% CI: 1.48–6.71). Conclusions: The study highlights the strong support for restriction of smoking in public places including hospitality venues despite poor knowledge and low compliance levels with the current SFPs. A review of the current SFP in Ghana together with education of hospitality staff on the benefits and requirements of SFPs is recommended