bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How are social stressors at work related to well-being and health? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gerhardt Christin , Semmer Norbert K. , Sauter Sabine , Walker Alexandra , de Wijn Nathal , Kälin Wolfgang , Kottwitz Maria U. , Kersten Bernd , Ulrich Benjamin , Elfering Achim
Published: May 2021

Background

Social relationships are crucial for well-being and health, and considerable research has established social stressors as a risk for well-being and health. However, researchers have used many different constructs, and it is unclear if these are actually different or reflect a single overarching construct. Distinct patterns of associations with health/well-being would indicate separate constructs, similar patterns would indicate a common core construct, and remaining differences could be attributed to situational characteristics such as frequency or intensity. The current meta-analysis therefore investigated to what extent different social stressors show distinct (versus similar) patterns of associations with well-being and health.

Methods

We meta-analysed 557 studies and investigated correlations between social stressors and outcomes in terms of health and well-being (e.g. burnout), attitudes (e.g. job satisfaction), and behaviour (e.g. counterproductive work behaviour). Moderator analyses were performed to determine if there were differences in associations depending on the nature of the stressor, the outcome, or both. To be included, studies had to be published in peer-reviewed journals in English or German; participants had to be employed at least 50% of a full-time equivalent (FTE).

Results

The overall relation between social stressors and health/well-being was of medium size (r = −.30,p < .001). Type of social stressor and outcome category acted as moderators, with moderating effects being larger for outcomes than for stressors. The strongest effects emerged for job satisfaction, burnout, commitment, and counterproductive work behaviour. Type of stressor yielded a significant moderation, but differences in effect sizes for different stressors were rather small overall. Rather small effects were obtained for physical violence and sexual mistreatment, which is likely due to a restricted range because of rare occurrence and/or underreporting of such intense stressors.

Conclusions

We propose integrating diverse social stressor constructs under the term “relational devaluation” and considering situational factors such as intensity or frequency to account for the remaining variance. Practical implications underscore the importance for supervisors to recognize relational devaluation in its many different forms and to avoid or minimize it as far as possible in order to prevent negative health-related outcomes for employees.
Multifocal pleural capillary hemangioma: a rare cause of hemorrhagic pleural effusion-case report
Authors: Nie Naifu , Liu Zhulin , Kang Jun , Li Li , Cao Guoqiang
Published: May 2021

Background

Capillary hemangioma can be found in many organs, but rarely in pleura. Previously, only localized pleural capillary hemangioma cases have been reported. Corticosteroids are the most commonly recommended drugs in capillary hemangioma.

Case presentation

Here, we present a case of a young woman with recurrent hemorrhagic pleural effusion. Despite repeatedly thoracentesis, the routine examinations, including chest computed tomography (CT) scan, pleural effusion biochemical test, and cytology all failed to make a definite diagnosis. Thus, single port video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) was then performed. Numerous nodules arising from the parietal pleura were found, and biopsies showed multifocal pleural capillary. However, recurrent pleural effusion was successfully managed by oral azathioprine, after failure of dexamethasone treatment.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first case of a patient with recurrent hemorrhagic pleural effusion masquerading as malignant pleurisy, but in fact caused by multifocal pleural capillary hemangioma.
Arthroscopy‐controlled medial reefing and lateral release for recurrent patellar dislocation: clinical, radiologic outcomes and complications
Authors: Nha Kyung Wook , Kim Hyung Suh , Cho Sung Tan , Bae Ji Hoon , Jang Ki-Mo , Kim Sang-Gyun
Published: May 2021

Background

Few studies have reported the clinical outcomes of the medial reefing procedure and lateral release with arthroscopic control of medial retinacular tension in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical, radiologic outcomes and complications of arthroscopy-controlled medial reefing and lateral release.

Methods

Patients who underwent arthroscopy-controlled medial reefing and lateral release for recurrent patellar dislocation between November 2007 and June 2017 were retrospectively evaluated. The clinical outcome (Kujala score), radiologic outcome (congruence and patellar tilt angles), and complications were evaluated at final follow-up. The results were also compared with literature-reported outcomes of other surgical procedures for patellar dislocation.

Results

Twenty-five patients (mean age, 18.3 ± 4.8 years) were included in the study. The mean clinical follow-up period was 7.0 ± 2.5 (range, 3.8–12.2) years. The mean Kujala score was significantly improved from 54.7 ± 14.0 (range, 37–86) preoperatively to 91.0 ± 7.6 (range, 63–99) at a mean follow-up period of 7 years (P < 0.001). The radiologic results also significantly improved from 17.8° ± 5.9° to 6.8° ± 2.4° (P < 0.001) in the congruence angle and from 17.5° ± 8.2° to 5.6° ± 3.1° (P < 0.001) in the patella tilt angle at a mean follow-up period of 3.6 years. One patient developed a redislocation after a traumatic event, and two patients showed patellofemoral osteoarthritis progression.

Conclusions

Arthroscopy-controlled medial reefing and lateral release significantly improved the clinical and radiologic outcomes of the patients with recurrent patellar dislocation at a mean follow-up period of 7 years. The results of this study are comparable with the literature-reported outcomes of other surgical procedures for patellar dislocation.

Level of evidence

Level IV, retrospective therapeutic case series.
A rare case of ectopic ACTH syndrome with rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Qiang Wei , Song Sucai , Chen Tianjun , Wang Zhe , Feng Jun , Zhang Jiaojiao , Guo Hui
Published: May 2021

Background

Manifestations of hypokalaemia in ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormonesyndrome(EAS) vary from mild muscle weakness to life-threatening arrhythmia. Herein, we present a rare case of EAS with concomitant rhabdomyolysis(RM) as a result of intractable hypokalaemia.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old man was admitted for limb weakness and facial hyperpigmentation for 2 weeks. Lab tests revealed intractable hypokalaemia (lowest at 1.8 mmol/L) and metabolic alkalosis. The diagnosis of RM was based on a creatine kinase(CK)level of 5 times the upper limit. The elevated CK and myohemoglobin (Mb) levels returned to within the normal range after the alleviation of hypokalaemia. The patient was diagnosed with ACTH-dependent Cushing’s syndrome (CS) based on unsuppressed serum cortisol after a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test(LDDST) and remarkably elevated ACTH levels. The diagnosis of EAS was made based on the results of a high-dose dexamethasone suppression test(HDDST) and bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling(BIPSS). Multiple lymph nodes in the left supraclavicular fossa, right root of neck, mediastinum and bilateral hili of the lung were found with abnormal uptake of 68Ga-DOTA-NOC. Mediastinoscopic lymph node biopsy was performed. The pathological diagnosis was small-cell and large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma with positive ACTH staining. The patient was prescribed mifepristone and received one cycle of chemotherapy. The patient could not tolerate subsequent chemotherapy and died of dyscrasia.

Conclusions

RM is a rare complication of EAS with insidious onset and atypical clinical manifestations. Serum potassium levels should be vigilantly monitored to avoid RM in EAS.
Frequency and determinants of vitamin D deficiency among premenopausal and postmenopausal women in Karachi Pakistan
Authors: Shamsi Uzma , Azam Iqbal , Shamsi Azra , Shamsi Dua , Callen David
Published: May 2021

Background

Vitamin D deficiency is becoming a serious public health problem, even in sun-drenched cities like Karachi, Pakistan. We investigated the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its association with sociodemographic characteristics, anthropometric measures, and lifestyle factors among premenopausal and postmenopausal women (n = 784).

Methods

Face-to-face interviews were conducted to collect information and serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D were measured after the interviews.

Results

A total of 57% of women were vitamin D deficient with higher vitamin D deficiency found among premenopausal women (64.7%) compared to postmenopausal women (49%). The median serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (IQR) were 16.7 ng/ml (IQR 9.8–30.0). Factors associated with vitamin D deficiency were lower socioeconomic status (OR 2.00; 95% CI 1.15–3.48), younger age with highest vitamin D deficiency found in < 35 years of age group (OR 3.11; 95% CI 1.76–5.51), and winter season (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.07–2.15) after adjusting for multiple confounders. The use of vitamin D supplement (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.38–0.92) and vigorous exercise (OR 0.20, 95% CI 0.05–0.80) were protective against vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusions

The study shows a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, with detrimental health effects, among younger women belonging to lower socioeconomic status and during the winter season. The use of vitamin D supplements and vigorous exercise were protective measures. Public health campaigns are needed for education and awareness about vitamin D deficiency to improve vitamin D status for younger women living in poor environments.
Metabolic syndrome and its components reduce coronary collateralization in chronic total occlusion: An observational study
Authors: Liu Tong , Wu Zheng , Liu Jinghua , Lv Yun , Li Wenzheng
Published: May 2021

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an independent risk factor for the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. We investigated whether or to what extent MetS and its components was associated with coronary collateralization (CC) in chronic total occlusion (CTO).

Methods

This study involved 1653 inpatients with CTO. Data on demographic and clinical characteristics were collected by cardiovascular doctors. The CC condition was defined by the Rentrop scoring system. Subgroup analysis, mixed model regression analysis, scoring systems and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed.

Results

Overall, 1653 inpatients were assigned to the poor CC group (n = 355) and good CC group (n = 1298) with or without MetS. Compared to the good CCs, the incidence of MetS was higher among the poor CCs for all patients. Poor collateralization was present in 7.6%, 14.2%, 19.3%, 18.2%, 35.6% and 51.1% of the six groups who met the diagnostic criteria of MetS 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 times, respectively. For multivariable logistic regression, quartiles of BMI remained the risk factors for CC growth in all subgroups (adjusted OR = 1.755, 95% CI 1.510–2.038, P < 0.001 all patients; adjusted OR = 1.897, 95% CI 1.458–2.467, P < 0.001 non-MetS; and adjusted OR = 1.814, 95% CI 1.482–2.220, P < 0.001 MetS). After adjustment for potential confounding factors, MetS was an independent risk factor for CC growth in several models. Assigning a score of one for each component, the AUCs were 0.629 (95% CI 0.595–0.662) in all patients, 0.656 (95% CI 0.614–0.699) in MetS patients and 0.569 (95% CI 0.517–0.621) in non-MetS patients by receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Conclusions

MetS, especially body mass index, confers a greater risk of CC formation in CTO. The value of scoring systems should be explored further for CTO.
Correction to: High-dimensional single cell mass cytometry analysis of the murine hematopoietic system reveals signatures induced by ageing and physiological pathogen challenges
Authors: Nikolaou Christos , Muehle Kerstin , Schlickeiser Stephan , Japp Alberto Sada , Matzmohr Nadine , Kunkel Desiree , Frentsch Marco , Thiel Andreas
Published: May 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Exact transcript quantification over splice graphs
Authors: Ma Cong , Zheng Hongyu , Kingsford Carl
Published: May 2021

Background

The probability of sequencing a set of RNA-seq reads can be directly modeled using the abundances of splice junctions in splice graphs instead of the abundances of a list of transcripts. We call this model graph quantification, which was first proposed by Bernard et al. (Bioinformatics 30:2447–55, 2014). The model can be viewed as a generalization of transcript expression quantification where every full path in the splice graph is a possible transcript. However, the previous graph quantification model assumes the length of single-end reads or paired-end fragments is fixed.

Results

We provide an improvement of this model to handle variable-length reads or fragments and incorporate bias correction. We prove that our model is equivalent to running a transcript quantifier with exactly the set of all compatible transcripts. The key to our method is constructing an extension of the splice graph based on Aho-Corasick automata. The proof of equivalence is based on a novel reparameterization of the read generation model of a state-of-art transcript quantification method.

Conclusion

We propose a new approach for graph quantification, which is useful for modeling scenarios where reference transcriptome is incomplete or not available and can be further used in transcriptome assembly or alternative splicing analysis.
Mechanical stretching of the pulmonary vein mediates pulmonary hypertension due to left heart disease by regulating SAC/MAPK pathway and the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α
Authors: Huang Wenhui , Liu Hongjin , Pan Yichao , Yang Hongwei , Lin Jing , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2021

Background

This study aimed to explore whether the mechanical stretching-induced expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in pulmonary veins occurred through the stretch-activated channel (SAC)/ mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathway.

Methods

Sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three sham groups and seven model groups. A metal clip was placed on the ascending aorta in the model group to establish PH-LHD rat model. The sham group received a similar operation without ascending aorta clamped. On day 25, pulmonary vein was given mechanical stretching with 0 g, 2.0 g tension in two model groups and two sham groups. Another four model groups were given 2.0 g tension after MAPKs pathway inhibitors soaked. The last sham group and model group rats’ pulmonary veins, pulmonary artery and lung tissues were obtained on day 35. Pulmonary vein, pulmonary artery and lung tissue were evaluated by echocardiography, HE staining, immunohistochemistry and western blotting respectively.

Results

On day 25, left heart weight, right ventricular pressure (35.339 cmH2O) and left atrial pressure (13.657 cmH2O) were increased in model group than those in sham group. Echocardiography showed left heart failure in the PH-LHD group (Interventrieular septum dimension 1.716 mm, left ventricular internal end diastolic dimension 4.888 mm, left ventricular posterior wall thickness in diastole 1.749 mm, ejection fraction 76.917%). But there was no difference in lung tissue between the sham group and PH-LHD group as showed by HE staining. Our results showed that the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α was highly expressed in PH-LHD rats’ serum and pulmonary vein, which were further increased after 2.0 g tension was given and were decreased after SAC/MAPKs inhibitors treatment. Meanwhile, on day 25, immunohistochemistry analysis showed the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α was higher in the PH-LHD rats’ pulmonary vein than that in pulmonary artery and lung tissue, and these expressions in pulmonary vein of PH-LHD group were also higher than that in sham group. However, on day 35, IL-6 and TNF-α were all increased in the pulmonary veins, arteries and lung tissues. Besides, our results uncovered that SAC/MAPKs pathway were upregulating in PH-LHD rats’ pulmonary vein.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pulmonary vein mechanical stretching exacerbated PH-LHD possibly through the SAC/MAPKs pathway and upregulating expression of IL-6 and TNF-α.
Defining major trauma: a Delphi study
Authors: Thompson Lee , Hill Michael , Lecky Fiona , Shaw Gary
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Retrospective trauma scores are often used to categorise trauma, however, they have little utility in the prehospital or hyper-acute setting and do not define major trauma to non-specialists. This study employed a Delphi process in order to gauge degrees of consensus/disagreement amongst expert panel members to define major trauma.

Method

A two round modified Delphi technique was used to explore subject-expert consensus and identify variables to define major trauma through systematically collating questionnaire responses.

After initial descriptive analysis of variables, Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to determine statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in response to the Delphi statements between professional groups. A hierarchical cluster analysis was undertaken to identify patterns of similarity/difference of response.

A grounded theory approach to qualitative analysis of data allowed for potentially multiple iterations of the Delphi process to be influenced by identified themes.

Results

Of 55 expert panel members invited to participate, round 1 had 43 participants (Doctorn = 20, Paramedicn = 20, Nursen = 5, othern = 2). No consistent patterns of opinion emerged with regards to professional group. Cluster analysis identified three patterns of similar responses and coded as trauma minimisers, the middle ground and the risk averse. Round 2 had 35 respondents with minimum change in opinion between rounds.

Consensus of> 70% was achieved on many variables which included the identification of life/limb threatening injuries, deranged physiology, need for intensive care interventions and that extremes of age need special consideration. It was also acknowledged that retrospective injury severity scoring has a role to play but is not the only method of defining major trauma. Various factors had a majority of agreement/disagreement but did not meet the pre-set criteria of 70% agreement. These included the topics of burns, spinal immobilisation and whether a major trauma centre is the only place where major trauma can be managed.

Conclusion

Based upon the output of this Delphi study, major trauma may be defined as: “Significant injury or injuries that have potential to be life-threatening or life-changing sustained from either high energy mechanisms or low energy mechanisms in those rendered vulnerable by extremes of age”.
SpatialDWLS: accurate deconvolution of spatial transcriptomic data
Authors: Dong Rui , Yuan Guo-Cheng
Published: May 2021

Recent development of spatial transcriptomic technologies has made it possible to characterize cellular heterogeneity with spatial information. However, the technology often does not have sufficient resolution to distinguish neighboring cell types. Here, we present spatialDWLS, to quantitatively estimate the cell-type composition at each spatial location. We benchmark the performance of spatialDWLS by comparing it with a number of existing deconvolution methods and find that spatialDWLS outperforms the other methods in terms of accuracy and speed. By applying spatialDWLS to a human developmental heart dataset, we observe striking spatial temporal changes of cell-type composition during development.
Efficacy and safety of Naoxintong capsule for treating chronic stable angina: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Huanjia Gao , Hairong Cai , Jieqin Zhuang , Xingzhen Dai , Xue Fu , Weizhang Zhang , Bojun Chen
Published: May 2021

Background

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, Chronic stable angina (CSA) is the main symptom of myocardial ischemia, causes increased risk of major cardiovascular events such as sudden cardiac death and myocardial infarction. Naoxintong (NXT) capsule is a classical traditional Chinese medication used to treat CSA, however, few evidence to support the wide utility of NXT capsule for the treatment of CSA. We design this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of NXT capsule versus placebo in patients with CSA.

Methods/design

This is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 260 eligible participants will be enrolled. The participants will be randomized assigned in an equal ratio to groups receiving either NXT or placebo for 12 weeks. After a 2-week run-in period, they will receive either NXT or placebo (3 pills, 3 times daily) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome is therapeutic efficacy. Secondary outcome measures include the quantitative score of TCM syndromes, severity grading of angina pectoris, the number of angina pectoris per week, nitroglycerin dosage, score of Seattle angina scale, serum homocysteine, and incidence of cardiovascular events. Safety outcomes and adverse events will be monitored throughout the trial.

Discussion

We designed this study in accordance with principles and regulations issued by the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA). The results will provide clinical evidence of the efficacy and safety of NXT Capsule in the treatment of CSA.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2100044563. Registered on 24 March 2020.
A simple cognitive task intervention to prevent intrusive memories after trauma in patients in the Emergency Department: A randomized controlled trial terminated due to COVID-19
Authors: Kanstrup Marie , Singh Laura , Göransson Katarina E. , Gamble Beau , Taylor Rod S. , Iyadurai Lalitha , Moulds Michelle L. , Holmes Emily A.
Published: May 2021

Objective

This randomised controlled trial (RCT) aimed to investigate the effects of a simple cognitive task intervention on intrusive memories ("flashbacks") and associated symptoms following a traumatic event. Patients presenting to a Swedish emergency department (ED) soon after a traumatic event were randomly allocated (1:1) to the simple cognitive task intervention (memory cue + mental rotation instructions + computer game "Tetris" for at least 20 min) or control (podcast, similar time). We planned follow-ups at one-week, 1-month, and where possible, 3- and 6-months post-trauma. Anticipated enrolment was N = 148.

Results

The RCT was terminated prematurely after recruiting N = 16 participants. The COVID-19 pandemic prevented recruitment/testing in the ED because: (i) the study required face-to-face contact between participants, psychology researchers, ED staff, and patients, incurring risk of virus transmission; (ii) the host ED site received COVID-19 patients; and (iii) reduced flow of patients otherwise presenting to the ED in non-pandemic conditions (e.g. after trauma). We report on delivery of study procedures, recruitment, treatment adherence, outcome completion (primary outcome: number of intrusive memories during week 5), attrition, and limitations. The information presented and limitations may enable our group and others to learn from this terminated study.

Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04185155 (04-12-2019)
Correction to: Psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Basic Psychological Needs Satisfaction-Frustration Scale (BPNSFS)
Authors: Zayed Kashef N. , Omara Ehab N. , al-Rawahi Nasser Y. , al-Shamli Ali K. , al-Atiyah Asama A. , al-Haramleh Ahmad A. , Azab Mahmoud S. , al-Khasawneh Ghada M. , Hassan Mohammed A.
Published: May 2021

Following publication of the original article [1], the authors flagged that the article had published with incorrect affiliation details and with the name of the fifth author misspelled as ‘Asama K. al-Attiyah’ rather than ‘Asama A. al-Atiyah’.
E-book of metacognitive learning strategies: design and implementation to activate student’s self-regulation
Authors: Susantini Endang , Puspitawati Rinie Pratiwi , Raharjo  , Suaidah Husfina Lailiyatus
Published: May 2021

ICT-based learning provides opportunities for teachers and students to learn digitally, as well as letting the students become autonomous learners. One of the efforts to actualize such typical learning mode is to provide digitalized learning media, such as e-Books. An e-Book of metacognitive learning strategies aimed to train students’ metacognitive skills that emphasized self-regulated learning in order to make them become autonomous learners. This study was objected to describe the e-Book of metacognitive learning strategies in designing, implementing, and evaluating students’ metacognitive skills in a learning process. The e-Book was designed using ADDIE development model and used during the innovative learning I course for 84 biology students at Universitas Negeri Surabaya. The data were analyzed using descriptive-qualitative approach. The results showed that the e-Book’s validity was in a very good category. It also conveyed level 15 of readability according to the students and was responded very well with a positive response of 96%. Other findings depicted that the students’ metacognitive learning outcomes and students’ self-regulation were in a good category. Hence, the e-Books had the potential to be used in a digital learning mode as well as training students’ metacognitive skills and self-regulation.
Management of Soft Tissue Sarcomas in Extremities: Variation in Treatment Recommendations and Surveillance According to Specialty and Continent
Authors: Acem Ibtissam , Smit Merel M. , Verhoef Cornelis , van Houdt Winan J. , Haas Rick L. , van der Hage Jos A. , Grünhagen Dirk J. , van de Sande Michiel A. J.
Published: May 2021

Background

This study aimed to provide an insight into clinical decision-making and surveillance strategy of sarcoma specialists for patients with primary soft tissue sarcoma of the extremities (eSTS). The secondary aim was to quantify the role of patient- and tumor-specific factors in the perioperative management.

Methods

Members of sarcoma societies were sent a Web-based 21-item survey about eSTS management. The survey concerned only primary resectable high-grade eSTS in adults.

Results

The study enrolled 396 respondents. The majority of the surgical specialists thought the evidence for perioperative chemotherapy (CTX) for high-grade eSTS was insufficient. Radiotherapy (RTX) was less frequently offered in Asia than in North America and Europe. The specialties and continents also differed regarding the importance of patient and tumor characteristics influencing RTX and CTX recommendation. For surveillance after initial treatment outpatient visits, chest computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance images of the extremity were the methods primarily used. The specialists in North America preferred chest CT scan over chest x-ray, whereas those in Asia and Europe had no clear preference.

Discussion

Specialty and continent are important factors contributing to the variation in clinical practice, treatment recommendations, and surveillance of patients with primary resectable high-grade eSTS.
Freshwater molluscs of the Zrmanja and Krupa Rivers (Croatia) – the role of these rivers as a refuge of threatened and endemic species
Authors: Beran Luboš
Published: May 2021

The Balkan region is inhabited by hundreds of endemic species of freshwater molluscs but the information on their distribution, as well as that on the distribution of more common and widespread species, is still insufficient; most areas have no complete inventories of their mollusc faunas. The Zrmanja is one of the largest rivers in the Adriatic part of Croatia. Its freshwater molluscs were studied in the last decade, resulting in a substantial body of distributional data. The main objective of this study was to summarise and analyse the recent distributional information on its freshwater molluscs, with special reference to endemic or threatened species. In total 33 freshwater mollusc species were found in the Zrmanja River and its tributaries at 73 sites. The middle section of the Zrmanja River and its largest tributary, the Krupa River, were the richest studied parts. Dalmatinella fluviatilis Radoman, Tanousia zrmanjae (Brusina) and Islamia zermanica Radoman, endemic to the Zrmanja catchment area, were found in the middle and lower sections of the river. Their occurrence is scattered and limited in area; T. zrmanjae is probably on the verge of extinction. The occurrence of the endemic Belgrandiella kusceri (Wagner), Hadziella sketi Bole and Kerkia sp. in springs or underground waters and an abundant population of Unio elongatulus C. Pfeiffer in the Zrmanja and Krupa Rivers is also noteworthy. The area can be regarded as an important part of the Balkan region, one of world’s hotspots of global biodiversity. Although it is protected, there are still anthropogenic factors that are negatively affecting or may affect the mollusc assemblages.
The Ideological Perspective of School Principals' Perceptions-Educational Leaders Defining their Roles
Authors: Dery Keren , Reingold Roni
Published: May 2021

This research describes the perceptions of school principals in the context of their role in leading the professional development of the teaching staff. Their perceptions were examined in reference to three educational ideologies: socialization, acculturation and individuation. Data analysis of semi structured interviews conducted with 20 school principals, revealed a contradiction between the educational ideology that emerged in the context of the overall educational practice and the ideology referred to in the context of their role in teachers professional development. In the context of the educational practice, the majority of principals described an individuation ideology. In the context the principals' role regarding the professional development of the teaching staff, the majority of school principals presented the socialization ideology as their guiding ethos. In addition, the minority of principals demonstrated a combination of these two ideologies. None of the principals presented the acculturation ideology.
Use of resorbable magnesium screws in children: Systematic review of the literature and short-term follow-up from our series
Authors: Baldini Marco , Coppa Valentino , Falcioni Danya , Senigagliesi Elisa , Marinelli Mario , Gigante Antonio Pompilio
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Biodegradable implants are of major interest in orthopaedics, especially in the skeletally immature population. Magnesium (Mg) implants are promising for selected surgical procedure in adults, but evidence is lacking. Thus, the aim of this study is to analyze the safety and efficacy of resorbable Mg screw in different orthopaedic procedures in skeletally immature patients. In addition, we present a systematic review of the current literature on the clinical use of Mg implants.

Methods

From 2018 until the writing of this manuscript, consecutive orthopaedic surgical procedures involving the use of Mg screws performed at our centre in patients < 15 years of age were retrospectively reviewed. In addition, a systematic review of the literature was performed in the main databases. We included clinical studies conducted on humans, using Mg-alloy implants for orthopaedic procedures.

Results

A total of 14 patients were included in this retrospective analysis. Mean age at surgery was 10.8 years (sd 2.4), mean follow-up was 13.8 months (sd 7.5). Healing was achieved in all the procedures, with no implant-related adverse reaction. No patients required any second surgical procedure. The systematic review evidenced 20 clinical studies, 19 of which conducted on an adult and one including paediatric patients.

Conclusion

Evidence on resorbable Mg implants is low but promising in adults and nearly absent in children. Our series included apophyseal avulsion, epiphyseal fractures, osteochondritis dissecans, displaced osteochondral fragment and tendon-to-bone fixation. Mg screws guaranteed stable fixation, without implant failure, with good clinical and radiological results and no adverse events.

Level of evidence

IV – Single cohort retrospective analysis with systematic review
Legal Issues of Using Alternative Sources in Energy Sector: Implementation Methods and Challenges
Authors: Zharova Liubov  V. , Eremeeva Natalia V. , Sapiński Aleksander , Sanetra-Półgrabi Sabina
Published: May 2021

The paper focused on legal issues of using secondary sources in energy sector and implementation methods and challenges. The main idea of the proposed research is to substantiate the proposals and recommendations aimed at solving scientific and methodological problems of forming an effective economic and legal mechanism of secondary resource use based on a comprehensive approach to legal support for it. The paper underlined that secondary sources as an economic phenomenon occurs in conditions of growing demand for limited natural resources, including energy, increasing consumption, increasing the burden on the environment due to the accumulation of waste that cannot be recycled in natural conditions. The research stated that use of secondary resources is the basis of a circular economy, a new model of management based on the idea of green growth. Formulated prerequisites for involvement in economic circulation are the technological feasibility and economic feasibility of energy generation, which determined by the profitability of each type of production using secondary sources. The authors stressed that there is the urgent need to outline appropriate tools for legal regulation of outsourcing relations at the microeconomic level, the definition and essential characteristics of the most appropriate legal means in the mechanism of economic and legal regulation of outsourcing relations in the energy sector; economic and legal means that provide the optimization effect of outsourcing. Summarizing the research, the five steps methodology for assessing the implementation methods and challenges are formulated.
What Factors Cause Weak Industrial Energy Management Practices?
Authors: Afridi Zohaib Ur Rehman , Qammar Naseha Wafa , Qammar Shamaima Wafa , Muhammad Fazal , Ali Farman , Ullah Nasim
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study is to investigate the ongoing energy management andenergy efficiency practices in the industries of Peshawar division of KhyberPakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The outcomes of this research shows that KhazanaSugar Mills, Caliph Pharmaceutical, Naguman Flour Mill have no or lowawareness of energy management practices (awareness level mainly includesbarriers to energy efficiency and drivers for energy efficiency) except FF steelmill. The major paces observed in lacking the awareness are (1) “understand-ing level of staff and workers about energy savings due to energy management practices” (2) “interest level of top managers for energy management imple-mentation” (3) “awareness level regarding energy efficiency” (4) “lack oftechnical competence” (5) “use of standardized procedures”. When theindustry managers were inquired about the relationship with energy serviceproviders it is found that there is absolute absence of energy engineers,relationship with energy consultancies and long-term energy strategy in allthe industries. It was also found that there is lack of using renewable energytechnologies in all industries as they were relying upon using the generatorsduring the blackout hours. In terms of percentage, the energy saving factor of36 kWh/day has also observed with the replacement of fluorescent tube lightswith light emitting diode (LED) tube lights. Proper maintenance and energymanagement practices in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system(HVAC) would also save energy in a significant amount. The study shows thatthere is an overall improvement factor of 4% to 8% if the inclusion of energymanagement and energy efficiency practices would have been applied in allthe stated industries.
General degree distance of graphs
Authors: VETRÍK Tomáš
Published: May 2021

We generalize several topological indices and introduce the general degree distance of a connected graph $G$. For $a, b \in \mathbb{R}$, the general degree distance $DD_{a,b} (G) = \sum_{ v \in V(G)} [deg_{G}(v)]^a S^b_{G} (v)$, where $V(G)$ is the vertex set of $G$, $deg_G (v)$ is the degree of a vertex $v$, $S^b_{G} (v) = \sum_{ w \in V(G) \setminus \{ v \} } [d_{G} (v,w) ]^{b}$ and $d_{G} (v,w)$ is the distance between $v$ and $w$ in $G$. We present some sharp bounds on the general degree distance for multipartite graphs and trees of given order, graphs of given order and chromatic number, graphs of given order and vertex connectivity, and graphs of given order and number of pendant vertices.
A model of dopamine and serotonin-kynurenine metabolism in cortisolemia: Implications for depression
Authors: Dalvi-Garcia Felipe , Fonseca Luis L. , Vasconcelos Ana Tereza R. , Hedin-Pereira Cecilia , Voit Eberhard O.
Published: May 2021

A major factor contributing to the etiology of depression is a neurochemical imbalance of the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, which is caused by persistently high levels of circulating stress hormones. Here, a computational model is proposed to investigate the interplay between dopaminergic and serotonergic-kynurenine metabolism under cortisolemia and its consequences for the onset of depression. The model was formulated as a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations represented with power-law functions. Parameter values were obtained from experimental data reported in the literature, biological databases, and other general information, and subsequently fine-tuned through optimization. Model simulations predict that changes in the kynurenine pathway, caused by elevated levels of cortisol, can increase the risk of neurotoxicity and lead to increased levels of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylaceltahyde (DOPAL) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetaldehyde (5-HIAL). These aldehydes contribute to alpha-synuclein aggregation and may cause mitochondrial fragmentation. Further model analysis demonstrated that the inhibition of both serotonin transport and kynurenine-3-monooxygenase decreased the levels of DOPAL and 5-HIAL and the neurotoxic risk often associated with depression. The mathematical model was also able to predict a novel role of the dopamine and serotonin metabolites DOPAL and 5-HIAL in the ethiology of depression, which is facilitated through increased cortisol levels. Finally, the model analysis suggests treatment with a combination of inhibitors of serotonin transport and kynurenine-3-monooxygenase as a potentially effective pharmacological strategy to revert the slow-down in monoamine neurotransmission that is often triggered by inflammation.
Insecticide resistance status and mechanisms in Aedes aegypti populations from Senegal
Authors: Sene Ndeye Marie , Mavridis Konstantinos , Ndiaye El Hadji , Diagne Cheikh Tidiane , Gaye Alioune , Ngom El Hadji Malick , Ba Yamar , Diallo Diawo , Vontas John , Dia Ibrahima , Diallo Mawlouth
Published: May 2021

Aedes aegypti is the main epidemic vector of arboviruses in Africa. In Senegal, control activities are mainly limited to mitigation of epidemics, with limited information available for Ae. aegypti populations. A better understanding of the current Ae. aegypti susceptibility status to various insecticides and relevant resistance mechanisms involved is needed for the implementation of effective vector control strategies. The present study focuses on the detection of insecticide resistance and reveals the related mechanisms in Ae. aegypti populations from Senegal.

Bioassays were performed on Ae. aegypti adults from nine Senegalese localities (Matam, Louga, Barkedji, Ziguinchor, Mbour, Fatick, Dakar, Kédougou and Touba). Mosquitoes were exposed to four classes of insecticides using the standard WHO protocols. Resistance mechanisms were investigated by genotyping for pyrethroid target site resistance mutations (V1016G, V1016I, F1534C and S989P) and measuring gene expression levels of key detoxification genes (CYP6BB2, CYP9J26, CYP9J28, CYP9J32, CYP9M6, CCEae3a and GSTD4).

All collected populations were resistant to DDT and carbamates except for the ones in Matam (Northern region). Resistance to permethrin was uniformly detected in mosquitoes from all areas. Except for Barkédji and Touba, all populations were characterized by a susceptibility to 0.75% Permethrin. Susceptibility to type II pyrethroids was detected only in the Southern regions (Kédougou and Ziguinchor). All mosquito populations were susceptible to 5% Malathion, but only Kédougou and Matam mosquitoes were susceptible to 0.8% Malathion. All populations were resistant to 0.05% Pirimiphos-methyl, whereas those from Louga, Mbour and Barkédji, also exhibited resistance to 1% Fenitrothion. None of the known target site pyrethroid resistance mutations was present in the mosquito samples included in the genotyping analysis (performed in > 1500 samples). In contrast, a remarkably high (20-70-fold) overexpression of major detoxification genes was observed, suggesting that insecticide resistance is mostly mediated through metabolic mechanisms. These data provide important evidence to support dengue vector control in Senegal.
The immune protection induced by a serine protease from the Trichinella spiralis adult against Trichinella spiralis infection in pigs
Authors: Xu Daoxiu , Bai Xue , Xu Jing , Wang Xuelin , Dong Zijian , Shi Wenjie , Xu Fengyan , Li Yanfeng , Liu Mingyuan , Liu Xiaolei
Published: May 2021

Trichinellosis is a major foodborne parasitosis caused by Trichinella spiralis. In the present study, a serine protease gene from an adult T. spiralis (Ts-Adsp) cDNA library was cloned, expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by Ni-affinity chromatography. Previous studies of our laboratory have found that mice vaccinated with recombinant Ts-Adsp protein (rTs-Adsp) exhibited partial protection against T. spiralis infection. In this study, the protective effect of rTs-Adsp against T. spiralis infection in pigs was further explored. The cell-mediated and humoral immune responses induced by rTs-Adsp were measured, including the dynamic trends of specific antibody levels (IgG, IgG1, IgG2a and IgM), as well as the levels of cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10) in the serum. Moreover, the changes in T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and neutrophils were measured to evaluate cellular immune responses in pigs vaccinated with rTs-Adsp. The results indicated that a Th1-Th2 mixed immune response with Th1 predominant was induced by rTs-Adsp after vaccination. Flow cytometric analysis showed that the proportions of CD4+ T cells, B cells, and neutrophils in the immunized groups were significantly increased. Furthermore, pigs vaccinated with rTs-Adsp exhibited a 50.9% reduction in the muscle larvae burden, compare with pigs from the PBS group five weeks after challenged. Our results suggested that rTs-Adsp elicited partial protection and it could be a potential target molecule for preventing and controlling Trichinella transmission from pigs to human.
Attitudes on voluntary and mandatory vaccination against COVID-19: Evidence from Germany
Authors: Graeber Daniel , Schmidt-Petri Christoph , Schröder Carsten
Published: May 2021

Several vaccines against COVID-19 have now been developed and are already being rolled out around the world. The decision whether or not to get vaccinated has so far been left to the individual citizens. However, there are good reasons, both in theory as well as in practice, to believe that the willingness to get vaccinated might not be sufficiently high to achieve herd immunity. A policy of mandatory vaccination could ensure high levels of vaccination coverage, but its legitimacy is doubtful. We investigate the willingness to get vaccinated and the reasons for an acceptance (or rejection) of a policy of mandatory vaccination against COVID-19 in June and July 2020 in Germany based on a representative real time survey, a random sub-sample (SOEP-CoV) of the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP). Our results show that about 70 percent of adults in Germany would voluntarily get vaccinated against the coronavirus if a vaccine without side effects was available. About half of residents of Germany are in favor, and half against, a policy of mandatory vaccination. The approval rate for mandatory vaccination is significantly higher among those who would get vaccinated voluntarily (around 60 percent) than among those who would not get vaccinated voluntarily (27 percent). The individual willingness to get vaccinated and acceptance of a policy of mandatory vaccination correlates systematically with socio-demographic and psychological characteristics of the respondents. We conclude that as far as people’s declared intentions are concerned, herd immunity could be reached without a policy of mandatory vaccination, but that such a policy might be found acceptable too, were it to become necessary.
Pupil size in the evaluation of static and dynamic stimuli in peripheral vision
Authors: Klatt Stefanie , Noël Benjamin , Brocher Andreas
Published: May 2021

It has been evidenced that in attention-window tasks, the participants fixate on the center of a screen while inspecting two stimuli that appear at the same time in parafoveal vision. Such tasks have successfully been used to estimate a person’s breadth of attention under various conditions. While behavioral investigations of visual attention have often made use of response accuracy, recent research has shown that the pupil size can also be used to track shifts of attention to the periphery. The main finding of previous studies is that the harder the evaluation of the stimuli becomes, e.g., because they appear farther away from the central fixation point, the stronger the pupils dilate. In this paper, we present experimental data suggesting that in an attention-window task, the pupil size can also be used to assess whether the participants attend to static, non-moving, or dynamic, moving stimuli. That is, regression models containing information on presentation mode (static vs. dynamic) and the visual angle between spatially separated stimuli better predict accuracy of perception and pupil dilation than model without these sources of information. This finding is useful for researchers who aim at understanding the human attentional system, including potential differences in its sensitivity to static and dynamic objects.