bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competence Needs Satisfaction in elite junior tennis: Gender differences
Authors: Guinoubi Sarah , Mouelhi-Guizani Salma , Chtara Mokhtar , Crespo Miguel
Published: September 2022

Empirical studies on Basic Psychological Needs Theory in sports have increased exponentially since the turn of the millennium. Within this context, we studied the contribution of competence needs as a predictor of Reduced Sense of Accomplishment (RSA) and Balance between Challenge and Skills (BCS) in elite junior tennis players and its gender differences. A sample of 114 (62 girls and 52 boys) junior elite players (15.62 ± 1.36 years) from 24 countries competing in the International Tennis Federation world junior tournaments participated in this study. Three different questionnaires were used, Competence Needs Satisfaction (CNS) with Basic Needs Satisfaction in Sport Scale, RSA with Athlete Burnout Questionnaire, and BCS with Dispositional Flow State 2. Results showed that these scales were reliable (>.70). Independent sample t-test analysis revealed no significant gender differences in any of them ( p > .05). Structural equation modeling (SEM) showed that CNS was negatively associated with RSA (r = −.46; p < .001) and positively associated with BCS (r = .81; p < .001). It can be concluded that coaches, parents, and team members should understand the relevance of adopting behaviors and programs that satisfy the competence needs of elite junior tennis players. By doing so, elite tennis players would be protected against a RSA and facilitate more confidence in aiming them to face the competitive challenges of the sport.
The Effect of Monophasic Oral Contraceptives on Muscle Strength and Markers of Recovery After Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage: A Systematic Review
Authors: Glenner-Frandsen Astrid , With Cecilie , Gunnarsson Thomas P. , Hostrup Morten
Published: September 2022

Context:

Oral contraceptives (OCs) manipulate hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle and affect physical performance. Most investigations on the effect of OCs on physical performance did not discriminate between different types of OCs. Thus, the effects of monophasic OCs (MOCs) - the most common type of OCs - on muscle strength and recovery from exercise are largely unknown.

Objective:

To examine the effect of MOC use on muscle strength and markers of recovery after exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) in premenopausal women.

Data Sources:

Electronic databases Embase, PubMed, SportDiscus, and Web of Science were searched for studies examining the effect of MOCs on acute muscle strength and recovery.

Study Selection:

Keywords applied for the study selection were oral contraceptive* AND muscle strength or oral contraceptive* AND muscle damage.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Level of Evidence:

Lowest quality assessed for an included study in this review was serious risk of bias using ROBINS-I tool made from Cochrane for nonrandomized studies.

Data Extraction:

A total of 104 studies on muscle strength were identified, of which 11 met the inclusion criteria. Concerning recovery, 51 studies were identified, of which 4 met the inclusion criteria.

Results:

Of the 11 studies included, 10 showed no effect of MOCs on acute muscle strength. Of the 4 studies on recovery, 2 found a greater decrease in muscle strength, and 3 found higher creatine kinase (CK) levels after EIMD in MOC users than in nonusers. The included studies were all rated with moderate-to-serious risk of bias.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that MOCs may impair recovery from EIMD as indicated by lowered muscle strength and elevated CK levels. There is insufficient evidence to conclude whether MOCs acutely affect muscle strength. Moderate-to-serious risk of bias in studies makes interpretation challenging.
Pedestrian Safety Among High School Runners: A Case Series
Authors: Shore Erin , DeLong Randi , Powell Elaine , Register-Mihalik Johna , Stearns Rebecca , Koester Michael C. , Kucera Kristen
Published: September 2022

Background:

Participation in high school cross-country and track has increased over the last few decades. At the same time, the rate of pedestrian-involved motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) has also increased. In the context of organized sport, pedestrian safety among runners is often not highlighted, despite the risk of catastrophic injury.

Purpose:

To describe incidents of pedestrian-involved MVCs involving student athletes captured by the National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research (NCCSIR) at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Study Design:

Case series.

Level of Evidence:

Level 5.

Methods:

This study utilized surveillance data from the NCCSIR from 2011 to 2020. It presents descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, detailed summaries, and a Haddon Matrix.

Results:

There were 8 incidents involving 11 student athletes, resulting in 9 fatalities. Of these, 5 cases occurred in the afternoon or early evening, 4 occurred in the Fall, and 6 occurred in a rural area. Haddon Matrix analyses of case descriptions indicate schools should implement a runner safety program for all new runners and ensure that runner safety measures are included in emergency action plans.

Conclusion:

Runner-related MVCs are relatively rare, but tragic, incidents. Pedestrian safety measures should be incorporated into school-sponsored practices and training runs.

Clinical Relevance:

Pedestrian safety should be incorporated into runner safety and injury prevention efforts.
β-chitosan-clay films: Characterization and antibacterial study using response surface methodology
Authors: Hajjaji Mohamed , Alagui Abdelhakim , Joly Nicolas , Martin Patrick
Published: September 2022

Properties of the chitosan films can be improved by incorporating clay minerals. So, solvent-cast films of the β-chitosan containing stevensite-rich or kaolinitic-illitic clays (up to 50 mass %) were characterized for their structural and mechanical properties. The effects of molecular weight (MW) and deacetylation degree (DD) of chitosan and the clay/chitosan mass ratio on the inhibition growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were studied using the response surface methodology (RSM). The films consisted of exfoliated/intercalated or flocculated composites, and the electrostatic bonds formed between the functional moieties of the chitosan and the clay particles active sites essentially influenced their mechanical strength. The results of the study using RSM showed that the optimal value of MW required for the inhibition of the bacteria varied according to the film used, and high antibacterial activity necessitated high DD (89–97%).
Blast wave interaction with structures – An overview
Authors: Isaac Obed Samuelraj , Alshammari Omar Ghareeb , Pickering Erik Green , Clarke Samuel David , Rigby Samuel Edward
Published: September 2022

Blast–obstacle interaction is a complex, multi-faceted problem. Whilst engineering-level tools exist for predicting blast parameters (e.g. peak pressure, impulse and loading duration) in geometrically simple settings, a blast wave is fundamentally altered upon interaction with an object in its path, and hence, the loading parameters are themselves affected. This article presents a comprehensive review of key research in this area. The review is formed of five main parts, each describing: the direct loading of a blast wave on the surface of a finite-sized structure; the modified pressure of the blast wave in the wake region of three main obstacle types – blast walls, obstacles, wall/obstacle hybrids; and finally, a brief description of some methods for predicting loading parameters in such blast–obstacle interaction settings. Key findings relate to the mechanisms governing blast attenuation, for example, diffraction, reflection (diverting away from the target structure), expansion/volume increase, vortex creation/growth, as well as obstacle properties influencing these, such as porosity (blockage ratio), obstacle shape, number of obstacles/rows, arrangement and surface roughness.
Muscles, Makeup, and Femboys: Analyzing TikTok’s “Radical” Masculinities
Authors: Foster Jordan , Baker Jayne
Published: September 2022

News reports and online comments suggest that social media applications like TikTok play an important role in challenging traditional notions of masculinity. Male creators who don jewelry and engage in dance in their videos are emblematic of a broader shift in social and mainstream media toward gender non-conformity. Do these videos represent a movement away from hegemonic ideals? Based on a visual content analysis of 205 TikTok videos across the application’s 43 most followed male creators, we examine representations of masculinity on the platform. Drawing on the concept of hybrid masculinity, we find that TikTok creators both challenge and reinforce traditional notions of masculinity, subverting widely recognizable tropes, and gender norms while simultaneously reinforcing the importance of men’s muscularity, attractiveness, and sexual bravado. Taken together, our findings contribute to a broader discussion of the role that social media play in reproducing inequality along the lines of gender, race, and sexuality, including how beauty is rewarded symbolically and materially in online spaces.
Determinants of the Likelihood of Tourist Spending in Cultural Micro-Destinations: Type, Timing, and Distance of the Activity as Predictors
Authors: Vena-Oya Julio , Castañeda-García José-Alberto , Rodríguez-Molina Miguel-Ángel
Published: September 2022

Although tourism expenditure has long been a pertinent topic in studies dealing with cultural tourism, its importance in recent years has become even more marked due to the consequences of low-cost tourism that many destinations are suffering. This need has been further aggravated by the impact of the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. Now, the only sustainable means of increasing destination revenue is to generate greater financial profitability of tourism-related activities, as opposed to increasing tourist volumes. The present study analyzes the determinants of the likelihood of tourist spending in an urban-cultural destination whose economic sustainability is being threatened by low-cost tourism. To this end, all the tourism activities of the sample (672 in total) were recorded in real time during the stay via a purpose-designed mobile application. Given the nested structure of the sample, multilevel modeling was used: the characteristics of the different tourism activities were used as predictor variables, while characteristics of the tourist were used as control variables. Regarding the former, the results suggest that spending is more likely at the beginning of the stay and in relation to non-cultural tourism activities (restaurants, shopping, transport, etc.). An interaction effect between activity location and timing (beginning vs. end of stay) was also demonstrated: at the beginning of the stay, the greater likelihood of spending was related to services or attractions outside the city center; and, toward the end, spending patterns become more static, based close to the city center. The aim is to explain the probability of tourist expenditure at each spending opportunity, thus contributing to the current knowledge of total tourist spending. Knowledge of tourist expenditure patterns is a prerequisite for raising profitability-per-tourist when increasing visitor volumes is not an option.
The Effects of Postmaterialist Values on Average Life Satisfaction at the Country Level: What Generates Differences in Subjective Well-Being among European Countries?
Authors: Sudo Naoki
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study is to clarify the social mechanisms that generate differences in the average life satisfaction among European countries by specifying the latent structures of life satisfaction. For this purpose, data from the European Values Study conducted from 2017 to 2020 (EVS 2017) were analyzed using finite mixtures of regression models. The results revealed that the respondents to the EVS 2017 could be categorized into two latent groups: a group dominated by materialist values and a group characterized by postmaterialist values. The results also imply that postmaterialist values increase average life satisfaction at the country level and are positively associated with economic prosperity and political stability at the country level. Consequently, the effect of postmaterialist values on life satisfaction is related to social inequalities among European countries. Finally, the sociological implications of these findings are discussed.
Plaque Microbiome in Caries-Active and Caries-Free Teeth by Dentition
Authors: Bhaumik D. , Salzman E. , Davis E. , Blostein F. , Li G. , Neiswanger K. , Weyant R.J. , Crout R. , McNeil D.W. , Marazita M.L. , Foxman B.
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Describe associations between dental caries and dental plaque microbiome, by dentition and family membership.

Methods:

This cross-sectional analysis included 584 participants in the Center for Oral Health Research in Appalachia Cohort 1 (COHRA1). We sequenced the 16S ribosomal RNA gene (V4 region) of frozen supragingival plaque, collected 10 y prior, from 185 caries-active (enamel and dentinal) and 565 caries-free (no lesions) teeth using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Sequences were filtered using the R DADA2 package and assigned taxonomy using the Human Oral Microbiome Database.

Results:

Microbiomes of caries-active and caries-free teeth were most similar in primary dentition and least similar in permanent dentition, but caries-active teeth were significantly less diverse than caries-free teeth in all dentition types. Streptococcus mutans had greater relative abundance in caries-active than caries-free teeth in all dentition types ( P < 0.01), as did Veillonella dispar in primary and mixed dentition ( P < 0.01). Fusobacterium sp. HMT 203 had significantly higher relative abundance in caries-free than caries-active teeth in all dentition types ( P < 0.01). In a linear mixed model adjusted for confounders, the relative abundance of S. mutans was significantly greater in plaque from caries-active than caries-free teeth ( P < 0.001), and the relative abundance of Fusobacterium sp. HMT 203 was significantly lower in plaque from caries-active than caries-free teeth ( P < 0.001). Adding an effect for family improved model fit for Fusobacterium sp. HMT 203 but not S. mutans.

Conclusions:

The diversity of supragingival plaque composition from caries-active and caries-free teeth changed with dentition, but S. mutans was positively and Fusobacterium sp. HMT 203 was negatively associated with caries regardless of dentition. There was a strong effect of family on the associations of Fusobacterium sp. HMT 203 with the caries-free state, but this was not true for S. mutans and the caries-active state.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Patients’ and dentists’ concerns about transmission of bacteria within families causing caries should be tempered by the evidence that some shared bacteria may contribute to good oral health.
Contemporary Review: The Foot and Ankle in Long-Distance Running
Authors: Jastifer James R.
Published: September 2022

Distance runners represent a unique patient population. The cyclic activity associated with distance running leads to a high incidence of injury. Gait patterns, the extrinsic and intrinsic muscles of the foot and ankle, foot strike pattern, shoe wear considerations, alignment, and orthotics are also all important considerations that must be considered by the treating provider. The purpose of this work is to review relevant functional anatomy, recent studies on gait patterns in running, orthotics, and theory on how the body moves through space during running in order to better equip the clinician to treat long distance runners.
Vestibular Imaging and Function in Patients With Inner Ear Malformation Presenting With Profound Hearing Loss
Authors: Dy Alexander Edward S. , Kashio Akinori , Fujimoto Chisato , Kinoshita Makoto , Kikkawa Yayoi S. , Hoshi Yujiro , Igarashi Kazunori , Uranaka Tsukasa , Iwasaki Shinichi , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: September 2022

Objective

Vestibular impairment has been observed in patients with congenital hearing loss, but little is known about the vestibular anatomy and function of those in this group with inner ear malformations. This study aims to investigate the association between vestibulocochlear anatomy and vestibular function test results in children with inner ear malformations.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Pediatric patients with inner ear malformations presenting with bilateral profound hearing loss at a tertiary hospital from 1999 to 2017.

Methods

Ears were classified into subgroups based on anatomic abnormalities seen on computed tomography imaging. Cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP), rotatory chair, and caloric test results were obtained and collated. Descriptive and inferential statistics were calculated.

Results

Of 82 ears, 29.3% had incomplete partition type II malformation, the most common type. The second‐most common type was isolated vestibular organ anomaly (20.7%), which is not included in currently accepted categories. Most ears exhibited abnormal vestibular function. Abnormal vestibule volume was associated with a nonreactive cVEMP (P <. 001). Radiologically abnormal lateral semicircular canals were associated with abnormal caloric and rotatory chair results (P <. 001).

Conclusion

With a relatively large number of cases of isolated vestibular organ anomaly not only in our study but also in previous publications, we suggest that this category be added to the subsets of inner ear malformations. Abnormal vestibule volume was significantly associated with a nonreactive cVEMP finding. The majority of patients with hearing loss secondary to inner ear malformations have abnormal vestibular function test results.
Comparative genome analysis unravels pathogenicity of Xanthomonas albilineans causing sugarcane leaf scald disease
Authors: Li MeiLin , Bao YiXue , Li YiSha , Akbar Sehrish , Wu GuangYue , Du JinXia , Wen Ronghui , Chen Baoshan , Zhang MuQing
Published: September 2022

Background

Xanthomonasis a genus of gram-negative bacterium containing more than 35 species. Among these pathogenic species,Xanthomonas albilineans(Xal) is of global interest, responsible for leaf scald disease in sugarcane. Another notableXanthomonasspecies isXanthomonas sachari(Xsa), a sugarcane-associated agent of chlorotic streak disease.

Result

The virulence of 24Xanthomonasstrains was evaluated by disease index (DI) and Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC) in the susceptible inoculated plants (GT 46) and clustered into three groups of five highly potent, seven mild virulent, and twelve weak virulent strains. The highly potent strain (X. albilineans,XalJG43) and its weak virulent related strain (X. sacchari,XsaDD13) were sequenced, assembled, and annotated in the circular genomes. The genomic size of JG43 was smaller than that of DD13. Both strains (JG43 and DD13) lacked a Type III secretory system (T3SS) and T6SS. However, JG43 possessed Salmonella pathogenicity island-1 (SPI-1). More pathogen-host interaction (PHI) genes and virulent factors in 17 genomic islands (GIs) were detected in JG43, among which six were related to pathogenicity. Albicidin and a two-component system associated with virulence were also detected in JG43. Furthermore, 23Xanthomonasstrains were sequenced and classified into three categories based on Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) mutation loci and pathogenicity, using JG43 as a reference genome. Transitions were dominant SNP mutations, while structural variation (SV) is frequent intrachromosomal rearrangement (ITX). Two essential genes (rpfC/rpfG) of the two-component system and another gene related to SNP were mutated to understand their virulence effect. The mutation ofrpfGresulted in a decrease in pathogenicity.

Conclusion

These findings revealed virulence of 24Xanthomonasstrains and variations by 23Xanthomonasstrains. We sequenced, assembled, and annotated the circular genomes ofXalJG43 andXsaDD13, identifying diversity detected by pathogenic factors and systems. Furthermore, complete genomic sequences and sequenced data will provide a theoretical basis for identifying pathogenic factors responsible for sugarcane leaf scald disease.
Gentamicin promoted the production of CD4+CD25+ Tregs via the STAT5 signaling pathway in mice sepsis
Authors: Li Jinfeng , Xu Fengdan , Li Song , Xie Mingyu , Li Ning
Published: September 2022

Background

Increasing studies have reported that gentamicin (GNT) plays an essential role in sepsis; however, its underlying mechanism is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of GNT in sepsis.

Results

We observed that GNT enhanced survival and alleviated inflammatory injuries of the lungs, liver, kidneys, and intestines in mice with sepsis. Furthermore, regulatory T cells (Tregs) showed enhanced inhibitory function, and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-2 and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 showed decreased and increased peritoneal fluid levels, respectively, after treatment with GNT. GNT showed enhanced phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (p-STAT5) in Tregs in vivo and in vitro. The STAT5 inhibitor restrained the increased functional changes of Tregs and reduced inflammatory responses induced by GNT in vitro. Moreover, the STAT5 inhibitor reversed GNT-mediated impacts on survival and inflammation, and the percentage, apoptosis, and phenotypic and functional changes of Tregs in neonatal sepsis.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that GNT regulates the function of Tregs via the STAT5 signaling pathway, alleviating inflammatory injuries, and provides novel evidence in the treatment of neonatal sepsis.
Availability of and factors related to interventional procedures for refractory pain in patients with cancer: a nationwide survey
Authors: Uehara Yuko , Matsumoto Yoshihisa , Kosugi Toshifumi , Sone Miyuki , Nakamura Naoki , Mizushima Akio , Miyashita Mitsunori , Morita Tatsuya , Yamaguchi Takuhiro , Satomi Eriko
Published: September 2022

Background

Cancer pain may be refractory to standard pharmacological treatment. Interventional procedures are important for quality of analgesia. The aim of the present study was to clarify the availability of four interventional procedures (celiac plexus neurolysis/splanchnic nerve neurolysis, phenol saddle block, epidural analgesia, and intrathecal analgesia), the number of procedures performed by specialists, and their associated factors. In addition, we aimed to establish how familiar home hospice physicians and oncologists are with the different interventional procedures available to manage cancer pain.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey using a self-administered questionnaire was conducted. Subjects were certified pain specialists, interventional radiologists, home hospice physicians, and clinical oncologists.

Results

The numbers of valid responses/mails were 545/1,112 for pain specialists, 554/1,087 for interventional radiology specialists, 144/308 for home hospice physicians, and 412/800 for oncologists. Among pain specialists, depending on intervention, 40.9-75.2% indicated that they perform each procedure by themselves, and 47.5-79.8% had not performed any of the procedures in the past 3 years. Pain specialists had performed the four procedures 4,591 times in the past 3 years. Among interventional radiology specialists, 18.1% indicated that they conduct celiac plexus neurolysis/splanchnic nerve neurolysis by themselves. Interventional radiology specialists had performed celiac plexus neurolysis/splanchnic nerve neurolysis 202 times in the past 3 years. Multivariate analysis revealed that the number of patients seen for cancer pain and the perceived difficulty in gaining experience correlated with the implementation of procedures among pain specialists. Among home hospice physicians and oncologists, depending on intervention, 3.5-27.1% responded that they were unfamiliar with each procedure.

Conclusions

Although pain specialists responded that the implementation of each intervention was possible, the actual number of the interventions used was limited. As interventional procedures are well known, it is important to take measures to ensure that pain specialists and interventional radiology physicians are sufficiently utilized to manage refractory cancer pain.
A pyroptosis-associated signature plays a role in prognosis prediction in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Li Zhiyuan , Xia Zhinan , Yu Yipeng , Cai Licheng , Jian Wengang , Wang Tengda , Xue Wei , Wang Xingyuan , Wang Bowen , Zhang Peng , Yao Wenhao , Zhang Cheng , Wang Chunyang
Published: September 2022

Background

Approximately 90% of renal malignancies are RCCs (renal cell carcinomas), and the primary subtype in histology is ccRCC (clear cell RCC). In recent years, pyroptosis has been considered a kind of inflammation-related programmed cell death that participates in the invasion, metastasis, and proliferation of tumour cells, thereby influencing tumour prognosis. Nonetheless, the expression level of pyroptosis-associated genes in RCCs and their relationship with prognosis remain obscure.

Results

In our research, 44 regulators of pyroptosis that were differentially expressed between normal kidney and ccRCC tissues were identified. ccRCC cases were categorized into 2 subgroups according to prognostic-related DEGs (differentially expressed genes), and there was a significant difference in OS (overall survival) between them. The prognostic value of pyroptosis-associated genes was assessed as a signature based on a cohort from TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas). Following Cox regression with DEGs and LASSO (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator), a 6-gene signature was established, and all ccRCC cases in the cohort from TCGA were categorized into an LR (low-risk) or HR (high-risk) group (P < 0.001). In combination with clinical features, risk scores were considered a predictive factor of OS in ccRCC. KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) and GO (Gene Ontology) analyses suggest increased immunity and enrichment of genes related to immunity in the HR group.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that genes related to pyroptosis have an important role in tumour immunity and may be used to predict the prognosis of ccRCC.
Mitochondrial oxidative stress in the tumor microenvironment and cancer immunoescape: foe or friend?
Authors: Kuo Cheng-Liang , Ponneri Babuharisankar Ananth , Lin Ying-Chen , Lien Hui-Wen , Lo Yu Kang , Chou Han-Yu , Tangeda Vidhya , Cheng Li-Chun , Cheng An Ning , Lee Alan Yueh-Luen
Published: September 2022

The major concept of "oxidative stress" is an excess elevated level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which are generated from vigorous metabolism and consumption of oxygen. The precise harmonization of oxidative stresses between mitochondria and other organelles in the cell is absolutely vital to cell survival. Under oxidative stress, ROS produced from mitochondria and are the major mediator for tumorigenesis in different aspects, such as proliferation, migration/invasion, angiogenesis, inflammation, and immunoescape to allow cancer cells to adapt to the rigorous environment. Accordingly, the dynamic balance of oxidative stresses not only orchestrate complex cell signaling events in cancer cells but also affect other components in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Immune cells, such as M2 macrophages, dendritic cells, and T cells are the major components of the immunosuppressive TME from the ROS-induced inflammation. Based on this notion, numerous strategies to mitigate oxidative stresses in tumors have been tested for cancer prevention or therapies; however, these manipulations are devised from different sources and mechanisms without established effectiveness. Herein, we integrate current progress regarding the impact of mitochondrial ROS in the TME, not only in cancer cells but also in immune cells, and discuss the combination of emerging ROS-modulating strategies with immunotherapies to achieve antitumor effects.
Repellent activity against Anopheles gambiae of the leaves of nesting trees in the Sebitoli chimpanzee community of Kibale National Park, Uganda
Authors: Lacroux Camille , Pouydebat Emmanuelle , Rossignol Marie , Durand Sophie , Aleeje Alfred , Asalu Edward , Chandre Fabrice , Krief Sabrina
Published: September 2022

Background

Every evening, chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) build a sleeping platform so called “nest” by intertwining branches of tree. Most of chimpanzees’ communities studied have a preference for tree species in which they nest. As female mosquitoes are feeding on the blood of their host at nighttime, chimpanzees may prevent being disturbed and bitten by mosquitoes by selecting tree species having properties to repel them.

Methods

To test the hypothesis that chimpanzees choose tree species for their aromatic properties, data related to 1,081 nesting trees built between 2017 and 2019 in the Sebitoli community of Kibale National Park (Uganda) were analysed. The 10 most used trees were compared to the 10 most common trees in the habitat that were not preferred for nesting. Leaves from the 20 trees species were collected and hydro-distillated to obtain essential oils and one of the by-products for behavioural bioassays against females of the African mosquito,Anopheles gambiae.

Results

Sebitoli chimpanzees showed tree preferences: 10 species correspond to more than 80% of the nesting trees. Out of the essential oil obtained from the 10 nesting trees, 7 extracts for at least one concentration tested showed spatial repellency, 7 were irritant by contact and none were toxic. In the other hand, for the abundant trees in their habitat not used by chimpanzees, only 3 were repellent and 5 irritants.

Discussion and conclusion

This study contributes to evidence that chimpanzees, to avoid annoying mosquitoes, may select their nesting trees according to their repellent properties (linked to chemical parameters), a potential inspiration for human health.
Employing the equity lens to understand multisectoral partnerships: lessons learned from a mixed-method study in Canada
Authors: Gupta Suvadra Datta , Pisolkar Vaidehi , Alhassan Jacob Albin Korem , Judge Allap , Engler-Stringer Rachel , Gauvin Lise , Muhajarine Nazeem
Published: September 2022

Background

Multisectoral approaches to health are collaborations between stakeholders across multiple sectors, usually formed to address issues that affect health but go beyond the purview of one particular sector. The significance of multisectoral partnerships to attain health equity has been widely acknowledged. However, the extent which equity can be attained depends upon the perceptions of various stakeholders. We examine how multisectoral partnerships promoting healthy eating and active living conceptualized and employed an equity lens in their work.

Method

This study is part of a larger pan-Canadian mixed-method research and knowledge sharing program entitled MUSE (Multisectoral Urban Systems for health and Equity in Canadian cities). Data collected from both quantitative and qualitative sources for two sites of the MUSE project-Saskatoon and Toronto were analyzed. In the qualitative part, 30 semi-structured key informant interviews were conducted with key stakeholders from six different multisectoral partnerships based in Saskatoon and Toronto. Data were analyzed in an inductive way. In the quantitative part, a survey with 37 representatives of stakeholder organizations was carried out. Simple descriptive statistics (means and percentages) were used to observe the distribution of data and to complement the qualitative analysis.

Results

Equity was not a central component in program design although participants addressing equity, did so by discussing accessibility. How much consideration was given to equity varied as a function of the type of partnership. Most participants emphasized geographical accessibility but a few mentioned financial accessibility. Collaborative leadership style facilitated a participatory decision-making process, and thereby upholding equity in the partnership decision-making process. Communication, networking, and negotiation skills were found to be core competencies of a leader that contributed in upholding equity in partnership dynamics. The study also showed some challenges to embed equity in partnership works, such as the lack of comprehensive understanding of population health and its equity tenet.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that multisectoral partnerships aimed at promoting healthy eating and physical activity experience several challenges to attain equity within the partnership as well as in the partnership-based works aimed at reducing health equity in populations. Factors identified can support decision makers commit to and work to attaining equity within their partnerships as well as in the partnership-based work in the community and beyond.
Long noncoding RNA TUG1 induces angiogenesis of endothelial progenitor cells and dissolution of deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Feng Yaping , Lei Bo , Zhang Huan , Niu Luyuan , Li Xiangtao , Luo Xiaoyun , Zhang Fuxian
Published: September 2022

Objective

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) essentially controls many physiological and pathological processes of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Based on that, lncRNA taurine upregulated gene 1 (TUG1)-involved angiogenesis of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and dissolution of DVT was explored.

Methods

In the in-vitro experiments, EPCs were engineered with mimic, inhibitor, siRNA, and plasmid, after which tube formation, proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were checked. In the in-vivo experiments, a DVT mouse model was established. Before the DVT operation, the mice were injected with agomir, antagomir, siRNA, and plasmid. Subsequently, thrombosis and damage to the femoral vein were pathologically evaluated. TUG1, miR-92a-3p, and 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (Hmgcr) expression in the femoral vein was tested. The relationship between TUG1, miR-92a-3p, and Hmgcr was validated.

Results

DVT mice showed suppressed TUG1 and Hmgcr expression, and elevated miR-92a-3p expression. In EPCs, TUG1 overexpression or miR-92a-3p inhibition promoted cellular angiogenesis, whereas Hmgcr silencing blocked cellular angiogenesis. In DVT mice, elevated TUG1 or inhibited miR-92a-3p suppressed thrombosis and damage to the femoral vein whilst Hmgcr knockdown acted oppositely. In both cellular and animal models, TUG1 overexpression-induced effects could be mitigated by miR-92a-3p up-regulation. Mechanically, TUG1 interacted with miR-92a-3p to regulate Hmgcr expression.

Conclusion

Evidently, TUG1 promotes the angiogenesis of EPCs and dissolution of DVT via the interplay with miR-92a-3p and Hmgcr.
Can clinician champions reduce potentially inappropriate medications in people living with dementia? Study protocol for a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Parchman Michael L. , Perloff Jennifer , Ritter Grant
Published: September 2022

Background

For people living with dementia (PLWD) the overuse of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) remains a persistent problem. De-prescribing trials in the elderly have mixed results. Clinician champions may be uniquely suited to lead efforts to address this challenge. Here we describe the study protocol for a 24-month embedded pragmatic cluster-randomized clinical trial within two accountable care organizations (ACOs) of such a clinician champion intervention. The specific aims are to (1) assess the effectiveness of a clinician champion on de-implementing PIMs in PLWD, (2) determine if the intervention is associated with a reduction in emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations attributed to a fall, and (3) examine five implementation outcomes: appropriateness, feasibility, fidelity, penetration, and equity.

Methods/design

Two ACOs agreed to participate: United States Medical Management (USMM) and Oschner Health System. The unit of randomization will be the primary care clinic. A clinician champion will be recruited from each of the intervention clinics to participate in a 6-month training program and then work with clinicians and staff in their clinic for 12 months to reduce the use of PIMs in their PLWD population. For aims 1 and 2, Medicare claims data will be used to assess outcomes. The outcome for aim #1 will be medication possession rates per quarter, for the three therapeutic classes of PIMs among patients with dementia in intervention clinics versus control clinics. For aim #2, we will assess the incidence of falls using a previously validated algorithm. For both aims 1 and 2, we will construct hierarchical models with time period observations nested within patient using generalized estimating equations (GEE) with robust standard errors. The key variable of interest will be the treatment indicator assigned based on practice. For aim #3, we will conduct qualitative thematic analysis of documentation by the clinician champions in their project workbooks to evaluate the five implementation outcomes.

Discussion

This embedded pragmatic trial will add to our existing knowledge regarding the effectiveness of a clinician champion strategy to de-prescribe potentially inappropriate medication among patients with dementia as well as its appropriateness, feasibility, fidelity, penetration, and equity.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.govNCT05359679, Registered May 4, 2022
The SCRIPT trial: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial of a polygenic risk score to tailor colorectal cancer screening in primary care
Authors: Saya Sibel , Boyd Lucy , Chondros Patty , McNamara Mairead , King Michelle , Milton Shakira , Lourenco Richard De Abreu , Clark Malcolm , Fishman George , Marker Julie , Ostroff Cheri , Allman Richard , Walter Fiona M. , Buchanan Daniel , Winship Ingrid , McIntosh Jennifer , Macrae Finlay , Jenkins Mark , Emery Jon
Published: September 2022

Background

Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) can predict the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) and target screening more precisely than current guidelines using age and family history alone. Primary care, as a far-reaching point of healthcare and routine provider of cancer screening and risk information, may be an ideal location for their widespread implementation.

Methods

This trial aims to determine whether the SCRIPT intervention results in more risk-appropriate CRC screening after 12 months in individuals attending general practice, compared with standard cancer risk reduction information. The SCRIPT intervention consists of a CRC PRS, tailored risk-specific screening recommendations and a risk report for participants and their GP, delivered in general practice. Patients aged between 45 and 70 inclusive, attending their GP, will be approached for participation. For those over 50, only those overdue for CRC screening will be eligible to participate. Two hundred and seventy-four participants will be randomised to the intervention or control arms, stratified by general practice, using a computer-generated allocation sequence. The primary outcome is risk-appropriate CRC screening after 12 months. For those in the intervention arm, risk-appropriate screening is defined using PRS-derived risk; for those in the control arm, it is defined using family history and national screening guidelines. Timing, type and results of the previous screening are considered in both arms. Objective health service data will capture screening behaviour. Secondary outcomes include cancer-specific worry, risk perception, predictors of CRC screening behaviour, screening intentions and health service use at 1, 6 and 12 months post-intervention delivery.

Discussion

This trial aims to determine whether a PRS-derived personalised CRC risk estimate delivered in primary care increases risk-appropriate CRC screening. A future population risk-stratified CRC screening programme could incorporate risk assessment within primary care while encouraging adherence to targeted screening recommendations.

Trial registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12621000092897p. Registered on 1 February 2021.
Impaired cellulose decomposition in a headwater stream receiving subsurface agricultural drainage
Authors: Poisson Rebecca , Yates Adam G.
Published: September 2022

Background

Agricultural development of former wetlands has resulted in many headwater streams being sourced by subsurface agricultural drainage systems. Subsurface drainage inputs can significantly influence stream environmental conditions, such as temperature, hydrology, and water chemistry, that drive ecological function. However, ecological assessments of subsurface drainage impacts are rare. We assessed the impact of an agricultural drainage system on cellulose decomposition and benthic respiration using a paired stream study in a headwater branch of Nissouri Creek, in Ontario, Canada. Adjacent first order segments sourced by a spring-fed marsh and a cropped field with subsurface drainage, as well as the adjoining trunk segment, were sampled over a year using the cotton strip assay to measure cellulose decomposition and benthic respiration.

Results

Assessments of cellulose decomposition revealed a one-third reduction in the drainage-sourced segment compared to marsh-sourced segment. Between segment differences in cellulose decomposition were associated with reduced summer temperatures in the drainage-sourced segment. Impacts of stream cooling from the drainage-sourced segment were transmitted downstream as cellulose decomposition was slower than expected throughout the drainage-sourced segment and for several hundred meters down the adjoining trunk segment. Benthic respiration only differed between the drainage- and marsh-sourced segments in spring, when stream temperatures were similar.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest there may be a widespread reduction in cellulose decomposition in streams across similar agricultural regions where subsurface drainage is prevalent. However, cooling of streams receiving significant amounts of water inputs from subsurface drainage systems may impart increased resiliency to future climate warming.
Selective biomarkers for inflammation and infection are associated with post-operative complications following transperineal template prostate biopsy (TTPB): a single-centre observational clinical pilot-study
Authors: Snyper Nana Yaa Frempomaa , Pike Joanne , Ekwueme Kingsley , Shergill Iqbal , Hughes Stephen Fôn
Published: September 2022

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are the most common prostate disorders in the UK, which cause considerable ill health in older men. Transperineal template prostate biopsy (TTPB) has emerged as a reliable procedure for the histopathological diagnosis of PCa and BPH due to its higher cancer detection rates. Although antiseptic preparation and antibiotic prophylaxis are used to ensure safety in patients undergoing surgical intervention, post-operative complications, such as infection and bleeding are still unavoidable, resulting in re-admissions, with resource implications. Currently, there is no biomarker profile to predict outcomes or monitor patients during the post-operative course. The main aim of this single-centre observational clinical pilot-study was to investigate the role of inflammatory and infection biomarkers following TTPB and their association with post-operative complications.

Methods

Forty-five patients scheduled for elective TTPB were recruited after informed consent at the Wrexham Maelor and Glan Clwyd Hospitals, North Wales, UK (n = 45). Prior to surgery, venous blood samples were collected at baseline and subsequently at 30, 120, and 240 min post-operatively. Urine samples were collected before and 120 min after the procedure. Serum procalcitonin (PCT), serum ferritin, and urine B2MG analysis were done using enzyme-linked fluorescent assay (ELFA) and the magnetic Luminex® multiplex performance assay was used to analyse IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-α plasma concentrations. Data on clinical outcomes were collected from patients’ medical records.

Results

Following TTPB, significant (p ≤ 0.05) increases were observed in uB2MG, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-α. Significant decreases were observed in ferritin (p ≤ 0.05). No significant change was observed in PCT concentration (p ≥ 0.05). One patient developed an infection and severe haematuria post-operatively following TTPB.

Conclusion

Although not confirmative, changes seen in biomarkers such as uB2MG, IL-10 and TNF-α in our observational clinical pilot-study may warrant further investigation, involving larger cohorts, to fully understand the role of these biomarkers and their potential association with post-operative complications such as infection and bleeding which can develop following TTPB for the diagnosis of PCa and BPH.
Traditional herbs against COVID-19: back to old weapons to combat the new pandemic
Authors: Al-kuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Fakhrany Omnia Momtaz , Elekhnawy Engy , Al-Gareeb Ali I. , Alorabi Mohammed , De Waard Michel , Albogami Sarah M. , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: September 2022

Background

Recently, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is a chief public health disaster caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). There are no established effective preventive or therapeutic anti-COVID-19 drugs available except for some recently approved vaccines. Still, countless recent studies recommend various alternative and complementary approaches against COVID-19, which are medicinal herbs employed as traditional remedies to enhance immunity to struggle with viral infections. In addition, physicians worldwide are highly interested in vitamin and mineral supplements to help them combat COVID-19 either through protection or treatment. Dietary supplements specifically vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc provide good prophylactic and therapeutic support to the presently available treatment regimens. In the present work, we have focused on plant-based remedies with promising anti-COVID-19 activities.

Aim

To enable investigators and researchers to identify potential herbal compounds with anti-COVID activity to be used as promising therapies to combat this pandemic.

Main body

This review highlights the recently published studies concerning natural traditional herbs, herbal bioactive metabolites, dietary supplements, and functional foods that could help prevent and/or treat COVID-19. Herein, we explored medicinal herbs as potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 and discussed how these studies help form larger discussions of diet and disease. Moreover, by investigating the herbal bioactive components, we have outlined several medicinal herbs that can fight against COVID-19 by hindering SARS-CoV-2 replication and entry to its host cells, deterring the cytokine storm, and several other means. Finally, we have summarized various herbal products, functional foods, and dietary supplements with potent bioactive compounds which can inhibit and/or prevent COVID-19 disease progression.

Conclusions

Based on the studies reviewed in this work, it was concluded with no doubt that phytochemical components present in various herbs could have a starring role in the deterrence and cure of coronavirus contagion.