bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Larrea divaricata: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on macrophages and low density lipoproteins
Authors: Peralta Ignacio , Marrassini Carla , Saint Martin Malen , Cogoi Laura , Alonso María Rosario , Gugliucci Alejandro , Anesini Claudia
Published: March 2022

Background

The oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) contributes to inflammation and oxidative stress through the activation of macrophages under hyperglycemia contributing to the development of diabetes mellitus and to atherosclerosis. Plants are a source of effective and innocuous antioxidants.Larrea divaricataCav. (Zygophyllaceae) is used in Argentina folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Methods

The aim of this work was to study the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the aqueous extract (AE) ofL. divaricataon macrophages under glucose stimulation and on human LDL and HDL particles under free radical generators.

Results

AE reduced the lipid peroxidation (17%), nitric oxide (NO) (47-50%), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (32%) and free radicals (50%) induced by glucose on macrophages. Also prevented HDL nitration (28%), thus preserving its function and structure and inhibited LDL oxidation. The effect on the nitrosative stress was mainly driven by nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA).

Conclusions

These results suggest a potential usefulness of AE as an adjuvant phytotherapy in patients with diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis.
Patients’ and providers’ perspectives on e-health applications designed for self-care in association with surgery – a scoping review
Authors: Wikström Lotta , Schildmeijer Kristina , Nylander Elisabeth Mueller , Eriksson Kerstin
Published: March 2022

Background

Before and after major surgery, access to information in a user-friendly way is a prerequisite for patients to feel confident in taking on the responsibility for their surgical preparation and recovery. Several e-health applications have been developed to support patients perioperatively. The aim of this review was to give an overview of e-health applications designed for self-care associated with surgery by providing a scoping overview of perspectives from providers and patients.

Methods

We searched the following data sources to identify peer-reviewed quantitative and qualitative studies published between 2015 and 2020: CINAHL, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and Scopus. After identifying 960 titles, we screened 638 abstracts, of which 72 were screened in full text. Protocol register: 10.17605/OSF.IO/R3QND.

Results

We included 15 studies which met our inclusion criteria. Data from several surgical contexts revealed that the most common self-care actions in e-health applications were preoperative preparations and self-assessments of postoperative recovery. Motivational factors for self-care were information, combined with supportive reminders and messages, and chat features. Although there was great variance in research designs and technical solutions, a willingness to engage with and adhere to e-health seemed to increase patients’ self-care activities and thereby accelerate return to work and normal activities. In addition, the need for physical visits seemed to decrease. Even though age groups were not primarily studied, the included studies showed that adult patients of any age engaged in surgical self-care supported by e-health. The providers’ perspectives were not found.

Conclusions

E-health applications supporting perioperative self-care indicated a positive impact on recovery. However, experiences of healthcare professionals delivering e-health associated with surgery are missing. Additionally, studies based on patients’ perspectives regarding willingness, adherence, and motivation for self-care supported by e-health are sparse. A need for studies examining the supporting role of e-health for self-care in the surgical context is therefore needed.
Knowledge support for ankle fractures in the Swedish Fracture Register – a qualitative study of physicians’ experiences
Authors: Rydberg Emilia Möller , Insulan Johan , Rolfson Ola , Mohaddes Maziar , Ahlstrom Linda
Published: March 2022

Background

The aim of this study is to investigate the experiences of physicians presented with a knowledge support system while registering data on ankle fractures in the Swedish Fracture Register. The present study aims to answer the following research questions:

    • “How is receiving knowledge support while registering a fracture in the Swedish Fracture Register experienced by the physicians using it?”.

    • “Can a feeling of increased usability of a quality register be achieved by providing the user with real-time feedback?”.

Methods

A total of 20 physicians using the Swedish Fracture Register were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy. Qualitative content analysis was performed on individual semi-structured interviews performed in May and June 2020.

Results

The present study demonstrates that the knowledge support system in the Swedish Fracture Register was perceived by the physicians as strengthening the evidence base and improving the quality of ankle fracture treatment. The knowledge support system was evaluated as a good tool for validating clinical decisions and managing the information that needs to be processed to make informed decisions.

Conclusions

The present study affirms that being provided with knowledge support is appreciated by physicians, increase value for work and enhance the initiative to register. The physicians experienced that the knowledge support provided an appreciated validation of the clinical decisions taken and a feeling of improved care. When incorporating knowledge support into an NQR, consideration must be given to physicians’ fears of becoming overly reliant on a template and losing control of the clinical base.
Role of indocyanine green in anomalous arterial supply to the normal dorsobasal segment of the lung
Authors: Iijima Yoshihito , Ishikawa Masahito , Iwai Shun , Motono Nozomu , Usuda Katsuo , Morinaga Masafumi , Yamagishi Shigeki , Koizumi Kiyoshi , Uramoto Hidetaka
Published: March 2022

Background

Anomalous systemic arterial supply to normal basal lung segments is a rare congenital malformation, in which aberrant arteries arising from the systemic circulation flow into the basal segment of the lung and return to normal pulmonary veins without abnormal bronchial branching. It presents a left-to-right shunt, resulting in volume overload of the pulmonary circulation, and consequently, pulmonary hypertension. Therefore, nearly all cases require surgery. Herein, we present a case, in which indocyanine green was used to demarcate the lung segment perfused by an anomalous systemic artery.

Case presentation

A 15-year-old boy was diagnosed with an anomalous artery originating from the celiac artery and supplying the right dorsobasal lung segment (S10). Via three-port video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, the anomalous artery was ligated and processed with an auto-stapler. Indocyanine green was injected intravenously to identify the tissue perfused by the anomalous artery, and the lung was resected.

Conclusions

With anomalous systemic arterial supply to normal basal lung segments, indocyanine green can be particularly helpful in identifying the boundaries of the perfused area. Then, the affected tissue can be resected by thoracoscopic surgery.
Exploring the Y-Balance-Test scores and inter-limb asymmetry in soccer players: differences between competitive level and field positions
Authors: González-Fernández Francisco Tomás , Martínez-Aranda Luis Manuel , Falces-Prieto Moisés , Nobari Hadi , Clemente Filipe Manuel
Published: March 2022

Background

The postural stability seems to be important in the physical development of the soccer player and the specific tasks related to the game. In addition, it is related to the injury risk and therefore, with the injury prevention and retraining processes. In this context, the Y Balance Test (YBT) is presented as a tool to assess dynamic postural control.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the differences and possible correlations in the YBT scores and inter-limb asymmetry for anterior (ANT), posteromedial (PM) and posterolateral (PL) directions by category and field position in soccer players.

Methods

173 males soccer players aged between 14 and 33 years old agreed to participate. Five categories and six field position were considered in this study. A standardised protocol was used at multiple clubs during the pre-season assessment of musculoskeletal function in soccer players. All the players performed the Y Balance Test (YBT) (official YBT Kit), assessing the dominant and non-dominant leg for three YBT directions (anterior-AN, posteromedial-PM and posterolateral-PL), inter-limb asymmetry and composite score.

Results

For AN, amateur and semiprofessional obtained the highest values for Dominant and Non-Dominant legs (Rangemean = 101.8–109.4%) and the lowest level in PRO players (mean: 62.0%). Concerning PM-PL, semiprofessional (Rangemean = 126.4–132.7%, dominant and non-Dominant respectively), followed by professional and amateur reported higher scores compared to youth categories. Inter-limb asymmetry showed higher values in lower age categories. The best composite scores were detected in semiprofessionals (Rangemean = 113.3–126.7% for dominant and Rangemean = 113.8–129.7% for non-Dominant leg), compared with the rest of the categories and for each field position evaluated.

Conclusion

Comparisons between field-positions revealed that centre-backs were worse than wingers and forwards. In order to explain variations in dynamic balance between competitive levels within the same age-group, special considerations about training programmes and related co-variables should be considered.
Broad thermal spectrum metagenomic laccase with action for dye decolorization and fentin hydroxide treatment
Authors: Lima Natália Sarmanho Monteiro , Gomes-Pepe Elisângela Soares , Campanharo João Carlos , de Macedo Lemos Eliana Gertrudes
Published: March 2022

Laccases are multicopper oxidases that act on various phenolic and non-phenolic compounds, enabling numerous applications including xenobiotic bioremediation, biofuel production, drug development, and cosmetic production, and they can be used as additives in the textile and food industries. This wide range of uses makes these enzymes extremely attractive for novel biotechnology applications. Here, we undertook the kinetic characterization of LacMeta, a predicted as homotrimeric (~ 107,93 kDa) small laccase, and demonstrated that this enzyme performs best at an acidic pH (pH 3–5) towards ABTS as substrate and has a broad thermal spectrum (10–60 °C), which can promote high plastic action potential through dynamic environmental temperature fluctuations. This enzyme showed following kinetic parameters: kcat = 6.377 s−1 ± 0.303, Km = 4.219 mM, and Vmax = 24.43 µM/min (against ABTS as substrate). LacMeta almost completely degraded malachite green (50 mg/mL) in only 2 h. Moreover, the enzyme was able to degrade seven dyes from four distinct classes and it respectively achieved 85% and 83% decolorization of methylene blue and trypan blue with ABTS as the mediator. In addition, LacMeta showed potential for the degradation of two thirds of an agricultural fungicide: fentin hydroxide, thus demonstrating its biotechnological aptitude for bioremediation. The results of this study suggest that LacMeta has potential in textile wastewater treatment and that it could help in the bioremediation of other human/environmental toxins such as pesticides and antibiotic compounds belonging to the same chemical classes as the degraded dyes.

Graphical Abstract
Climate and ungulate browsing impair regeneration dynamics in spruce-fir-beech forests in the French Alps
Authors: Unkule Mithila , Piedallu Christian , Balandier Philippe , Courbaud Benoit
Published: March 2022

Key message

Different components of water balance and temperature reduce density and height growth of saplings of Picea abies (L.) H. Karst (Norway spruce), Abies alba Mill. (silver fir) and Fagus sylvatica L. (European beech) in mixed uneven-aged forests in the French Alps and Jura mountains. Ungulate browsing is an additional pressure on fir and beech that could jeopardise the renewal of these species in the future.

Context

The uncertainty in tree recruitment rates raises questions about the factors affecting regeneration processes in forests. Factors such as climate, light, competition and ungulate browsing pressure may play an important role in determining regeneration, forest structures and thus future forest composition.

Aims

The objective of this study was to quantify sapling densities and height increments of spruce, fir and beech and to identify dominant environmental variables influencing them in mixed uneven-aged forests in the French Alps and Jura mountains.

Methods

Sapling height increment and density were recorded in 152 plots, and non-linear mixed models were obtained to establish relations between them and environmental factors known to affect regeneration, namely altitude, slope, aspect, canopy openness, soil characteristics, temperature, precipitation and ungulate browsing.

Results

Regeneration density, varying from 0 to 7 saplings per m 2, decreased with sapling height and was also negatively affected for spruce by PET, but positively for fir by precipitation and for beech by mean annual soil water content. Height increment reached up to 50 cm annually, increasing with sapling height and canopy openness and decreasing under high maximum summer temperatures for spruce and beech. The statistical effect of different environmental variables varied slightly among species but trends were quite similar. Additionally, ungulate browsing was high, with fir being the most intensely browsed, followed closely by beech, while spruce was rarely browsed.

Conclusions

All these results suggest that more temperature warming and a decrease in water availability could negatively impact sapling growth and density in the three species, with possible reduction of forest renewal fluxes. The observed increase of ungulate populations leading to increased browsing could be particularly detrimental to fir saplings.
The impact of design elements on undergraduate nursing students’ educational outcomes in simulation education: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Jackson Matthew , McTier Lauren , Brooks Laura A. , Wynne Rochelle
Published: March 2022

Background

Although simulation-based education (SBE) has become increasingly popular as a mode of teaching in undergraduate nursing courses, its effect on associated student learning outcomes remains ambiguous. Educational outcomes are influenced by SBE quality that is governed by technology, training, resources and SBE design elements. This paper reports the protocol for a systematic review to identify, appraise and synthesise the best available evidence regarding the impact of SBE on undergraduate nurses’ learning outcomes.

Methods

Databases to be searched from 1 January 1990 include the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), American Psychological Association (APA) PsycInfo and the Education Resources Information Centre (ERIC) via the EBSCO host platform. The Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE) will be searched via the OVID platform. We will review the reference lists of relevant articles for additional citations. A combination of search terms including ‘nursing students’, ‘simulation training, ‘patient simulation’ and ‘immersive simulation’ with common Boolean operators will be used. Specific search terms will be combined with either MeSH or Emtree terms and appropriate permutations for each database. Search findings will be imported into the reference management software (Endnote© Version.X9) then uploaded into Covidence where two reviewers will independently screen the titles, abstracts and retrieved full text. A third reviewer will be available to resolve conflicts and moderate consensus discussions. Quantitative primary research studies evaluating the effect of SBE on undergraduate nursing students’ educational outcomes will be included. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) will be used for the quality assessment of the core criteria, in addition to the Cochrane RoB 2 and ROBINS-I to assess the risk of bias for randomised and non-randomised studies, respectively. Primary outcomes are any measure of knowledge, skills or attitude.

Discussion

SBE has been widely adopted by healthcare disciplines in tertiary teaching settings. This systematic review will reveal (i) the effect of SBE on learning outcomes, (ii) SBE element variability and (iii) interplay between SBE elements and learning outcome. Findings will specify SBE design elements to inform the design and implementation of future strategies for simulation-based undergraduate nursing education.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD42021244530
Assessment of the performance of GPS/Galileo PPP-RTK convergence using ionospheric corrections from networks with different scales
Authors: Yan Zhongbao , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: March 2022

The rapid convergence of precise point positioning real-time kinematics (PPP-RTK) with centimeter-level accuracy is of utmost importance for many applications. One way of accelerating this convergence is to explore the use of ionospheric models and multiple global navigation satellite system (GNSS) observations, e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS) and Galileo Satellite Navigation System (Galileo) observations. Because the temporal and spatial variations of the ionosphere are significant, convergence analysis of PPP-RTK should be investigated in networks with different scales, especially networks with large differences in their scales. This study describes the convergence performance of PPP-RTK using GPS/Galileo observations derived from networks with different scales under medium ionospheric conditions. Slant ionospheric corrections were first estimated from the reference network and then imported as virtual observations to enhance the convergence performance of PPP-RTK at the user interface. The results show that for the 165-km reference site spacing, the portions of single-differenced (SD) ionospheric residuals within 0.3 total electron content units (TECU) were 85.2% and 81.7% for the GPS and Galileo observations, respectively. Considering the 90th percentile of horizontal position errors, the PPP-RTK convergence time within the network with 165-km spacing was shortened from 2.5 min for GPS-only observations to 2.0 min for integrated GPS + Galileo observations. For the network of about 50 km, the proportions of the SD ionospheric residuals of the GPS and Galileo constellation within 0.3 TECU were 95.9% and 82.8%, respectively. The PPP-RTK convergence time of the 90th percentile horizontal positioning errors based on GPS-only observations was 2.0 min but 1.5 min based on integrated GPS + Galileo observations. Using GPS and Galileo observations, the convergence time could be reduced by 25% for the network with 50-km spacing. Our results suggest that the convergence time of PPP-RTK depends on the scale of the reference network and becomes shorter as the scale of the network decreases. Compared with the GPS-only PPP-RTK, the GPS/Galileo PPP-RTK could shorten the convergence time further.

Graphical Abstract
Factors associated with household food insecurity and dietary diversity among day laborers amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh
Authors: Banna Md. Hasan Al , Sayeed Abu , Kundu Satyajit , Kagstrom Anna , Sultana Mst. Sadia , Begum Musammet Rasheda , Khan Md Shafiqul Islam
Published: March 2022

Backgrounds

Food insecurity and dietary diversity remain a public health concern in developing countries like Bangladesh which is exacerbated by the COVID-19 especially for day laborers’ families in Bangladesh. This study aimed to determine factors associated with household food insecurity and household dietary diversity among day laborers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 343 households of day laborers in Bangladesh using a semi-structured questionnaire. Household food security (HFS) and Household dietary diversity (HDD) scores were assessed using the HFS scale and household’s 24-h recall of intake of 12 food groups, respectively.

Results

The overall mean scores of HFS and HDD were 26.80 (SD, 4.83) and 4.08 (SD, 1.15). Having household head aged > 40 years and monthly household income > 5000 Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) were positively associated with HDD scores. Having an education level above secondary, monthly household income > 5000 BDT, and having a refrigerator were associated with the higher HFS scores, whereas having family members > 5 was a potential determinant of lower HFS scores. Pandemic-induced work loss and food scarcity were also potential determinants of lower HFS and HDD scores. Approximately 94% of respondents reported their wages were reduced, and 76% were deprived of the same quantity of food as pre-pandemic periods.

Conclusions

Lower socio-economic status and pandemic-induced work loss affect the HFS and HDD. Interventions with financial aid and complemented food distributions, particularly among the wage looser, may improve the HFS and HDD of day laborers.
Noninvasive spinal neuromodulation mitigates symptoms of idiopathic overactive bladder
Authors: Zhong Hui , Liu Emilie , Kohli Priya , Perez Laura , Edgerton V. Reggie , Ginsberg David , Gad Parag , Kreydin Evgeniy
Published: March 2022

Background

Overactive bladder (OAB) affects 12 to 30% of the world’s population. The accompanying urinary urgency, frequency and incontinence can have a profound effect on quality of life, leading to depression, social isolation, avoidance of sexual activity and loss of productivity. Conservative measures such as lifestyle modification and pelvic floor physical therapy are the first line of treatment for overactive bladder. Patients who fail these may go on to take medications, undergo neuromodulation or receive injection of botulinum toxin into the bladder wall. While effective, medications have side effects and suffer from poor adherence. Neuromodulation and botulinum toxin injection are also effective but are invasive and not acceptable to some patients.

Methods

We have developed a novel transcutaneous spinal cord neuromodulator (SCONE™,) that delivers multifrequency electrical stimulation to the spinal cord without the need for insertion or implantation of stimulating electrodes. Previously, multifrequency transcutaneous stimulation has been demonstrated to penetrate to the spinal cord and lead to motor activation of detrusor and external urethral sphincter muscles. Here, we report on eight patients with idiopathic overactive bladder, who underwent 12 weeks of SCONE™ therapy.

Results

All patients reported statistically significant clinical improvement in multiple symptoms of overactive bladder, such as urinary urgency, frequency and urge incontinence. In addition, patients reported significant symptomatic improvements as captured by validated clinical surveys.

Conclusion

SCONE™ therapy represents the first of its kind therapy to treat symptoms of urgency, frequency and urge urinary incontinence in patients with OAB.

Trial registration

The study was listed on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03753750).
Scattering state study of fermions due to q-deformed Dirac delta potential
Authors: Heidari N. , Hassanabadi H. , Chung W. S.
Published: March 2022

In this paper, by introducing the q-deformed delta function, the Dirac equation for a fermion in the presence of Dirac delta scalar and vector potential is developed. Then, considering the boundary condition and the effect of the q-deformed Dirac delta potential, the scattering state is investigated. Further, the reflection and transmission coefficients are determined. Moreover, the effect of the q-parameter and the potential coefficient on the reflection and transmission coefficients is reported.
Stress relaxation in III-V nitrides: Investigation of metallic atoms interaction with the N-vacancy
Authors: Ramdani Rofka , Hounkpati Viwanou , Chen Jun , Ruterana Pierre
Published: March 2022

Molecular dynamics simulations have been carried out to study the interaction between two point defects in III-nitride materials (AlN, GaN and InN): a substitutional metal atom (indium, aluminum, gallium) and the N-vacancy. The Stillinger-Weber (S-W) empirical potential is used. By calculating the potential energies of different configurations with these two defects, it is shown that the indium atom in AlN and GaN or aluminum and gallium in InN are stable in the immediate vicinity of the N-vacancy. In contrast, the gallium atom in AlN and the aluminum atom in GaN may be difficult to bring near the N-vacancy. This behavior is related to the stress relaxation in the presence of these point defects. In AlN, the stability of indium atoms around the N-vacancy is the highest, indicating a good probability of aggregation, which may constitute a first explanation for the reported phase segregation during the growth of InAlN alloys.
Fundamental Nomic Vagueness
Authors: Chen Eddy Keming
Published: March 2022

If there are fundamental laws of nature, can they fail to be exact? In this paper, I consider the possibility that some fundamental laws are vague. I call this phenomenon fundamental nomic vagueness. I characterize fundamental nomic vagueness as the existence of borderline lawful worlds and the presence of several other accompanying features. Under certain assumptions, such vagueness prevents the fundamental physical theory from being completely expressible in the mathematical language. Moreover, I suggest that such vagueness can be regarded as vagueness in the world. For a case study, we turn to the Past Hypothesis, a postulate that (partially) explains the direction of time in our world. We have reasons to take it seriously as a candidate fundamental law of nature. Yet it is vague: it admits borderline (nomologically) possible worlds. An exact version would lead to an untraceable arbitrariness absent in any other fundamental laws. However, the dilemma between fundamental nomic vagueness and untraceable arbitrariness is dissolved in a new quantum theory of time’s arrow.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Part I: Systematic Review of the Literature and Consensus on Anatomy, Diagnosis, and Classification of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome by the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies' Section of Peripheral Nerve Surgery
Authors: Dengler Nora Franziska , Ferraresi Stefano , Rochkind Shimon , Denisova Natalia , Garozzo Debora , Heinen Christian , Alimehmeti Ridvan , Capone Crescenzo , Barone Damiano Giuseppe , Zdunczyk Anna , Pedro Maria Teresa , Antoniadis Gregor , Kaiser Radek , Dubuisson Annie , Kretschmer Thomas , Rasulic Lukas
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND:

Although numerous articles have been published not only on the classification of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) but also on diagnostic standards, timing, and type of surgical intervention, there still remains some controversy because of the lack of level 1 evidence. So far, attempts to generate uniform reporting standards have not yielded conclusive results.

OBJECTIVE:

To systematically review the body of evidence and reach a consensus among neurosurgeons experienced in TOS regarding anatomy, diagnosis, and classification.

METHODS:

A systematic literature search on PubMed/MEDLINE was performed on February 13, 2021, yielding 2853 results. Abstracts were screened and classified. Recommendations were developed in a meeting held online on February 10, 2021, and refined according to the Delphi consensus method.

RESULTS:

Six randomized controlled trials (on surgical, conservative, and injection therapies), 4 “guideline” articles (on imaging and reporting standards), 5 observational studies (on diagnostics, hierarchic designs of physiotherapy vs surgery, and quality of life outcomes), and 6 meta-analyses were identified. The European Association of Neurosurgical Societies’ section of peripheral nerve surgery established 18 statements regarding anatomy, diagnosis, and classification of TOS with agreement levels of 98.4 % (±3.0).

CONCLUSION:

Because of the lack of level 1 evidence, consensus statements on anatomy, diagnosis, and classification of TOS from experts of the section of peripheral nerve surgery of the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies were developed with the Delphi method. Further work on reporting standards, prospective data collections, therapy, and long-term outcome is necessary.
A Drosophila toolkit for HA-tagged proteins unveils a block in autophagy flux in the last instar larval fat body
Authors: Murakawa Tadayoshi , Nakamura Tsuyoshi , Kawaguchi Kohei , Murayama Futoshi , Zhao Ning , Stasevich Timothy J. , Kimura Hiroshi , Fujita Naonobu
Published: March 2022

For in vivo functional analysis of a protein of interest (POI), multiple transgenic strains with a POI that harbors different tags are needed but generation of these strains is still labor-intensive work. To overcome this, we have developed a versatile Drosophila toolkit with a genetically encoded single-chain variable fragment for the HA epitope tag: ‘HA Frankenbody’. This system allows various analyses of HA-tagged POI in live tissues by simply crossing an HA Frankenbody fly with an HA-tagged POI fly. Strikingly, the GFP-mCherry tandem fluorescent-tagged HA Frankenbody revealed a block in autophagic flux and an accumulation of enlarged autolysosomes in the last instar larval and prepupal fat body. Mechanistically, lysosomal activity was downregulated at this stage, and endocytosis, but not autophagy, was indispensable for the swelling of lysosomes. Furthermore, forced activation of lysosomes by fat body-targeted overexpression of Mitf, the single MiTF/TFE family gene in Drosophila, suppressed the lysosomal swelling and resulted in pupal lethality. Collectively, we propose that downregulated lysosomal function in the fat body plays a role in the metamorphosis of Drosophila.
Strength and Biomechanical Risk Factors for Noncontact ACL Injury in Elite Female Footballers: A Prospective Study
Authors: COLLINGS TYLER J. , DIAMOND LAURA E. , BARRETT ROD S. , TIMMINS RYAN G. , HICKEY JACK T. , DU MOULIN WILLIAM S. , WILLIAMS MORGAN D. , BEERWORTH KATE A. , BOURNE MATTHEW N.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to determine if a preseason field-based test battery was prospectively associated with noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in elite female footballers.

Methods

In total, 322 elite senior and junior female Australian Rules Football and soccer players had their isometric hip adductor and abductor strength, eccentric knee flexor strength, countermovement jump (CMJ) kinetics, and single-leg hop kinematics assessed during the 2019 preseason. Demographic and injury history details were also collected. Footballers were subsequently followed for 18 months for ACL injury.

Results

Fifteen noncontact ACL injuries occurred during the follow-up period. Prior ACL injury (odds ratio [OR], 9.68; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 2.67–31.46), a lower isometric hip adductor to abductor strength ratio (OR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.09–3.61), greater CMJ peak take-off force (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.09–3.61), and greater single-leg triple vertical hop average dynamic knee valgus (OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.06–3.63) and ipsilateral trunk flexion (OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.01–2.55) were independently associated with an increased risk of subsequent ACL injury. A multivariable prediction model consisting of CMJ peak take-off force, dynamic knee valgus, and ACL injury history that was internally validated classified ACL injured from uninjured footballers with 78% total accuracy. Between-leg asymmetry in lower limb strength and CMJ kinetics were not associated with subsequent ACL injury risk.

Conclusions

Preseason field-based measures of lower limb muscle strength and biomechanics were associated with future noncontact ACL injury in elite female footballers. These risk factors can be used to guide ACL injury screening practices and inform the design of targeted injury prevention training in elite female footballers.
Long-Term Exercise Intervention in Patients with McArdle Disease: Clinical and Aerobic Fitness Benefits
Authors: SANTALLA ALFREDO , VALENZUELA PEDRO L. , RODRIGUEZ-LOPEZ CARLOS , RODRÍGUEZ-GÓMEZ IRENE , NOGALES-GADEA GISELA , PINÓS TOMÀS , ARENAS JOAQUÍN , MARTÍN MIGUEL A. , SANTOS-LOZANO ALEJANDRO , MORÁN MARÍA , FIUZA-LUCES CARMEN , ARA IGNACIO , LUCIA ALEJANDRO
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The long-term effects of exercise in patients with McArdle disease—the paradigm of “exercise intolerance”—are unknown. This is an important question because the severity of the disease frequently increases with time.

Purpose

This study aimed to study the effects of a long-term exercise intervention on clinical and fitness-related outcomes in McArdle patients.

Methods

Seventeen patients (exercise group: n = 10, 6 male, 38 ± 18 yr; control: n = 7, 4 male, 38 ± 18 yr) participated in a 2-yr unsupervised intervention including moderate-intensity aerobic (cycle-ergometer exercise for 1 h) and resistance (high load–low repetition circuit) training on 5 and 2–3 d·wk−1, respectively. Patients were assessed at baseline and postintervention. Besides safety, outcomes included clinical severity (e.g., exercise intolerance features) on a 0–3 scale (primary outcome), and aerobic fitness, gross muscle efficiency, and body composition (total/regional fat, muscle, and bone mass; secondary outcomes).

Results

The exercise program was safe and resulted in a reduction of 1 point (−1.0; 95% confidence interval, −1.6 to −0.5; P = 0.025) in clinical severity versus the control group, with 60% of participants in the exercise group becoming virtually asymptomatic and with no functional limitation in daily life activities. Compared with controls, the intervention induced significant and large benefits (all P < 0.05) in the workload eliciting the ventilatory threshold (both in absolute (watts, +37%) and relative units (watts per kilogram of total body mass or of lower-limb muscle mass, +44%)), peak oxygen uptake (in milliliters per kilogram per minute, +28%), and peak workload (in absolute (+27%) and relative units (+33%)). However, no significant changes were found for muscle efficiency or for any measure of body composition.

Conclusions

A 2-yr unsupervised intervention including aerobic and resistance exercise is safe and induces major benefits in the clinical course and aerobic fitness of patients with McArdle disease.
Cross-Sectional Associations of Sedentary Behavior and Sitting with Serum Lipid Biomarkers in Midlife
Authors: TJURIN PETRA , NIEMELÄ MAISA , KANGAS MAARIT , NAUHA LAURA , VÄHÄ-YPYÄ HENRI , SIEVÄNEN HARRI , KORPELAINEN RAIJA , FARRAHI VAHID , JÄMSÄ TIMO
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Physical inactivity, excessive total time spent in sedentary behavior (SB) and prolonged sedentary bouts have been proposed to be risk factors for chronic disease morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, which patterns and postures of SB have the most negative impacts on health outcomes is still unclear. This population-based study aimed to investigate the independent associations of the patterns of accelerometer-based overall SB and sitting with serum lipid biomarkers at different moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) levels.

Methods

Physical activity and SB were measured in a birth cohort sample (N = 3272) at 46 yr using a triaxial hip-worn accelerometer in free-living conditions for 14 d. Raw acceleration data were classified into SB and PA using a machine learning–based model, and the bouts of overall SB and sitting were identified from the classified data. The participants also answered health-related questionnaires and participated in clinical examinations. Associations of overall SB (lying and sitting) and sitting patterns with serum lipid biomarkers were investigated using linear regression.

Results

The overall SB patterns were more consistently associated with serum lipid biomarkers than the sitting patterns after adjustments. Among the participants with the least and the most MVPA, high total time spent in SB and SB bouts of 15–29.99 and ≥30 min were associated with impaired lipid metabolism. Among those with moderate amount of MVPA, higher time spent in SB and SB bouts of 15–29.99 min was unfavorably associated with serum lipid biomarkers.

Conclusions

The associations between SB patterns and serum lipid biomarkers were dependent on MVPA level, which should be considered when planning evidence-based interventions to decrease SB in midlife.
The Effect of Exercise for the Prevention and Treatment of Cancer-Related Lymphedema: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis
Authors: HAYES SANDRA CHRISTINE , SINGH BEN , REUL-HIRCHE HILDEGARD , BLOOMQUIST KIRA , JOHANSSON KARIN , JÖNSSON CHARLOTTA , PLINSINGA MELANIE LOUISE
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of exercise on (i) the prevention of cancer-related lymphedema (CRL) and (ii) the treatment of CRL, lymphedema-associated symptoms, and other health outcomes among individuals with CRL.

Methods

An electronic search was undertaken for exercise studies measuring lymphedema and involving individuals at risk of developing or with CRL. The Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality scale was used to assess study quality, and overall quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. Meta-analyses were performed to evaluate effects of exercise on CRL incidence, existing CRL status, lymphedema-associated symptoms, and health outcomes.

Results

Twelve studies (n = 1955; 75% moderate-high quality) and 36 studies (n = 1741; 58% moderate-high quality) were included in the prevention and treatment aim, respectively. Relative risk of developing CRL for those in the exercise group compared with the nonexercise group was 0.90 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.72 to 1.13) overall and 0.49 (95% CI, 0.28 to 0.85) for those with five or more lymph nodes removed. For those with CRL in the exercise group, the standardized mean difference (SMD) before to after exercise of CRL was −0.11 (95% CI, −0.22 to 0.01), and compared with usual care postintervention, the SMD was −0.10 (95% CI, −0.24 to 0.04). Improvements after intervention were observed for pain, upper-body function and strength, lower-body strength, fatigue, and quality of life for those in the exercise group (SMD, 0.3–0.8; P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Findings support the application of exercise guidelines for the wider cancer population to those with or at risk of CRL. This includes promotion of aerobic and resistance exercise, and not just resistance exercise alone, as well as unsupervised exercise guided by symptom response.
Eccentric Exercise Causes Specific Adjustment in Pyruvate Oxidation by Mitochondria
Authors: HODY STÉPHANIE , WARREN BLAIR E. , VOTION DOMINIQUE-MARIE , ROGISTER BERNARD , LEMIEUX HÉLÈNE
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The impact of eccentric exercise on mitochondrial function has only been poorly investigated and remains unclear. This study aimed to identify the changes in skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration, specifically triggered by a single bout of eccentric treadmill exercise.

Methods

Male adult mice were randomly divided into eccentric (ECC; downhill running), concentric (CON; uphill running), and unexercised control groups (n = 5/group). Running groups performed 18 bouts of 5 min at 20 cm·s−1 on an inclined treadmill (±15° to 20°). Mice were sacrificed 48 h after exercise for blood and quadriceps muscles collection. Deep proximal (red) and superficial distal (white) muscle portions were used for high-resolution respirometric measurements.

Results

Plasma creatine kinase activity was significantly higher in the ECC compared with CON group, reflecting exercise-induced muscle damage (P < 0.01). The ECC exercise induced a significant decrease in oxidative phosphorylation capacity in both quadriceps femoris parts (P = 0.032 in proximal portion, P = 0.010 in distal portion) in comparison with the CON group. This observation was only made for the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) pathway using pyruvate + malate as substrates. When expressed as a flux control ratio, indicating a change related to mitochondrial quality rather than quantity, this change seemed more prominent in distal compared with proximal portion of quadriceps muscle. No significant difference between groups was found for the NADH pathway with glutamate or glutamate + malate as substrates, for the succinate pathway or for fatty acid oxidation.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that ECC exercise specifically affects pyruvate mitochondrial transport and/or oxidation 48 h after exercise, and this alteration mainly concerns the distal white muscle portion. This study provides new perspectives to improve our understanding of the mitochondrial adaptation associated with ECC exercise.
The National Ecological Observatory Network’s soil metagenomes: assembly and basic analysis
Authors: Werbin Zoey R. , Hackos Briana , Lopez-Nava Jorge , Dietze Michael C. , Bhatnagar Jennifer M.
Published: March 2022

The largest dataset of soil metagenomes has recently been released by the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), which performs annual shotgun sequencing of soils at 47 sites across the United States. NEON serves as a valuable educational resource, thanks to its open data and programming tutorials, but there is currently no introductory tutorial for accessing and analyzing the soil shotgun metagenomic dataset. Here, we describe methods for processing raw soil metagenome sequencing reads using a bioinformatics pipeline tailored to the high complexity and diversity of the soil microbiome. We describe the rationale, necessary resources, and implementation of steps such as cleaning raw reads, taxonomic classification, assembly into contigs or genomes, annotation of predicted genes using custom protein databases, and exporting data for downstream analysis. The workflow presented here aims to increase the accessibility of NEON’s shotgun metagenome data, which can provide important clues about soil microbial communities and their ecological roles.
­­­­­Cefotaxime: A reappraisal for use in lower respiratory tract infections
Authors: Jain Nikhilesh
Published: March 2022

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are documented to cause significant morbidity and mortality in patients worldwide. During the ongoing pandemic, LRTIs like pneumonia are posing a major health concern for patients and the healthcare system. In COVID-19-related pneumonia bacterial co-infection is not uncommon and remains a leading cause of mortality in affected cases. Cefotaxime, a third-generation parenteral cephalosporin, has a broader spectrum of antimicrobial activity with a high-level of stability against β-lactamases. Despite many years of clinical usage for cefotaxime in LRTIs, resistance to this drug does not seem to be a major concern, and it is still one of the cornerstones in the choice effective antimicrobial therapy. This paper attempts to delineate available evidence for cefotaxime usage in various clinical situations like community acquired pneumonia (CAP), nosocomial pneumonia, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECB) and acute bronchitis. This may be of help for a clinician to develop a thorough viewpoint on the rational use of this time-tested antimicrobial agent and to take an apt clinical decision towards the optimum patient care.
Hydrogen production via aqueous-phase reforming for high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells - a review
Authors: Lakhtaria Paranjeet , Ribeirinha Paulo , Huhtinen Werneri , Viik Saara , Sousa José , Mendes Adélio
Published: March 2022

Aqueous-phase reforming (APR) can convert methanol and other oxygenated hydrocarbons to hydrogen and carbon dioxide at lower temperatures when compared with the corresponding gas phase process. APR favours the water-gas shift (WGS) reaction and inhibits alkane formation; moreover, it is a simpler and more energy efficient process compared to gas-phase steam reforming. For example, Pt-based catalysts supported on alumina are typically selected for methanol APR, due to their high activity at temperatures of circa 200°C. However, non-noble catalysts such as nickel (Ni) supported on metal-oxides or zeolites are being investigated with promising results in terms of catalytic activity and stability. The development of APR kinetic models and reactor designs is also being addressed to make APR a more attractive process for producing in situ hydrogen. This can also lead to the possibility of APR integration with high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells. The integration can result into increased overall system efficiency and avoiding critical issues faced in the state-of-the-art fuel cells integrated with methanol steam reforming.
Commentary to the Federal Law "On Enforcement Proceedings"
Authors: Abushenko Dmitriy , Zipunnikova Yuliya , Zagaynova Svetlana , Tarasov Igor' , Razd'yakonov Evgeniy , Yarkov Vladimir , Kuznecov Evgeniy , Mamaev Andrey , Shiryaeva Tat'yana , Bezrukov Anatoliy , Halatov Sergey
Published: March 2022

In the book, based on the generalization of the practice of the Federal Bailiff Service, judicial practice, and many years of experience in teaching enforcement proceedings, the Federal Law "On Enforcement Proceedings" is commented on article by article. The third edition takes into account the novelties of the Law, as well as the established practice of its application by courts and bodies of the named Service.
For bailiffs, judges, lawyers, other categories of lawyers working in the field of enforcement proceedings, as well as for teachers and students of law schools and faculties.
Law enforcement agencies of the Russian Federation
Authors: Chupilkin Yuriy , Voroncov Sergey , Lyahov Yuriy , Nazarov Sergey
Published: March 2022

The textbook meets the requirements of the state educational standard for the discipline "Law Enforcement agencies", contains information about state bodies engaged in law enforcement activities, as well as non-governmental organizations designed to promote it, reflects changes in legislation on the judicial system, the bar, the notary, the prosecutor's office, bodies of inquiry and preliminary investigation, justice, internal affairs and the federal security Service.
For students of higher educational institutions, graduate students, teachers, law enforcement officers, employees of private detective and security services, as well as a wide range of readers interested in the protection of life, health, human and civil rights and freedoms, property, security and law enforcement from criminal encroachments.