bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Analyses of Plastomes of Four Anubias (Araceae) Taxa, Tropical Aquatic Plants Endemic to Africa
Authors: Li Li , Liu Changkun , Hou Kunpeng , Liu Wenzhe
Published: November 2022

Anubias Schott (Araceae) have high ornamental properties as aquarium plants. However, the genus has difficulties in species identification, and the mechanism of its adaptation to the aquatic environment is unknown. To better identify species and understand the evolutionary history of Anubias, the plastomes of Anubias barteri Schott, A. barteri var. nana (Engl.) Crusio, and A. hastifolia Engl., were sequenced. The sizes of the plastomes of Anubias ranged from 169,841 bp to 170,037 bp. These plastomes were composed of conserved quadripartite circular structures and comprised 112 unique genes, including 78 protein-coding genes, 30 transfer RNA genes, and 4 ribosomal RNA genes. The comparative analysis of genome structure, repeat sequences, codon usage and RNA editing sites revealed high similarities among the Anubias plastomes, indicating the conservation of plastomes of Anubias. Three spacer regions with relatively high nucleotide diversity, trnL-CAA-ndhB, ycf1-ndhF, and rps15-ycf1, were found within the plastomes of Anubias. Phylogenetic analysis, based on 75 protein-coding genes, showed that Anubias was sister to Montrichardia arborescens (L.) Schott (BS = 99). In addition, four genes (ccsA, matK, ndhF, and ycf4) that contain sites undergoing positive selection were identified within the Anubias plastomes. These genes may play an important role in the adaptation of Anubias to the aquatic environment. The present study provides a valuable resource for further studies on species identification and the evolutionary history of Anubias.
Multiple Mitochondrial Dysfunction Syndrome Type 3: A Likely Pathogenic Homozygous Variant Affecting a Patient of Cuban Descent and Literature Review
Authors: Lang Steven H. , Camponeschi Francesca , de Joya Evan , Borjas-Mendoza Paulo , Tekin Mustafa , Thorson Willa
Published: November 2022

Multiple mitochondrial dysfunction syndrome type 3 (MMDS3) is a rare mitochondrial leukoencephalopathy caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in IBA57. Here, we describe a homozygous variant in IBA57, (NM_001010867.2): c.310G>T (p.Gly104Cys), in a 2-month-old infant of Cuban descent who presented with a one-month history of progressive hypotonia, weakness, and episodes of upgaze deviation. This is the first report of a patient homozygous for this variant and the first report of MMDS3 in a patient of Hispanic descent described to our knowledge. Using in silico tools, we found that the variant resides in a putative mutational hotspot located in the neighborhood of a key active ligand required for iron-sulfur cluster coordination. In addition, while previous case reports/series have reported the variable phenotypic features of the disease, the incidence of these features across the literature has not been well described. In order to construct a clearer global picture of the typical presentation of MMDS3, we reviewed 52 cases across the literature with respect to their clinical, biochemical, genotypic, and neuroradiographic features.
Association of Myostatin Gene Polymorphisms with Strength and Muscle Mass in Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the MSTN rs1805086 Mutation
Authors: Kruszewski Marek , Aksenov Maksim Olegovich
Published: November 2022

Polymorphism (rs1805086), c.458A>G, p.Lys(K)153Arg(R), (K153R) of the myostatin gene (MSTN) has been associated with a skeletal muscle phenotype (hypertrophic response in muscles due to strength training). However, there are not enough reliable data to demonstrate whether MSTN rs1805086 K and R allelic variants are valid genetic factors that can affect the strength phenotype of athletes’ skeletal muscles. The aim is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the association of MSTN rs1805086 polymorphism with the strength phenotype of athletes. This study analyzed 71 research articles on MSTN and performed a meta-analysis of MSTN K153R rs1805086 polymorphism in strength-oriented athletes and a control (non-athletes) group. It was found that athletes in the strength-oriented athlete group had a higher frequency of the R minor variant than that in the control group (OR = 2.02, P = 0.05). Thus, the obtained results convincingly demonstrate that there is an association between the studied polymorphism and strength phenotype of athletes; therefore, further studies on this association are scientifically warranted.
Assessing Community Perceptions on Urban Flood Resilience in Sri Lanka
Authors: Hewawasam Vindya , Matsui Kenichi
Published: November 2022

Urban communities’ perceptions about flood disasters can help better understand the resilience level of specific communities. This paper examines community-specific flood resilience by looking at Sri Lanka’s most flood-prone areas: the Kolonnawa and Kaduwela divisional secretariat divisions of Colombo. We conducted field surveys and a questionnaire survey among 120 community members. The collected questionnaire data were then analyzed partly by conducting multiple regression analyses. The results of our research identify varied perceptions about flood vulnerability and resilience by the community. Overall, our respondents regarded flood incidents as a high-risk disaster to their livelihoods, but some communities appeared to have higher coping strategies than others within the same administrative division. The respondents generally perceived that proximity to flood sources would increase flood vulnerability and frequency. Compared to other communities, Sedawatta community experienced most frequent floods, and 93% lived within 100 m from the river. The respondents had taken measures to mitigate floods mostly by elevating houses. Through multiple regression analyses, we found that education, income, household structure, distance to flood sources, and flood frequency had significant correlations with flood resilience and vulnerability in varying degrees by community. In conclusion, we argue that government flood management policies focus more on community-specific needs.
Perspectives on Environment and Human Health: An Editorial
Authors: Marinho-Reis Paula , Entwistle Jane A. , Hursthouse Andrew S. , Stewart Alex G.
Published: November 2022

Human health and wellbeing are intimately linked to the state of the environment [...]
The Geological Structure and Tectonic Complexity of Northern Thessaly That Hosted the March 2021 Seismic Crisis
Authors: Sboras Sotiris , Pavlides Spyros , Kilias Adamantios , Galanakis Dimitris , Chatziioannou Athanasios , Chatzipetros Alexandros
Published: November 2022

Knowing the rich presence of active faults in northern Thessaly and the lack of any significant seismic activity since at least the mid-1940s, the 2021 seismic sequence did not surprise us. What did surprise us was the fact that (i) despite the great knowledge of the neotectonic faults in the area, the causative faults were unknown, or almost unknown; (ii) the direction of the 2021 faulting was different than the expected, and given that the focal mechanisms showed almost pure normal dip-slip motion, the extensional main axis was also different than the one we thought we knew for this area; and (iii) besides the co-seismic ruptures that occurred within the Domeniko-Amouri basin and along the Titarissios River valley, there is evidence of rupturing in the alpine basement of Zarkos mountains. After thoroughly reviewing both the alpine and neotectonic structural setting and all the available literature concerning the seismotectonic data and interpretations of the 2021 sequence, including investigations of our own, we end up in a complex tectonic setting with older alpine structures now operating as inherited faults, and we also suggest the possible occurrence of a roughly N-dipping, low-angle, detachment-type fault. This fault runs below Mt Zarkos, reaching at least the Elassona Basin, with splay faults bifurcating upwards from the main fault zone. Following this complexity, rupture of the first mainshock must have chosen a split route reaching the surface through the gneiss rocks of Zarkos and almost (?) reaching the basinal sediments of the local tectonic depressions. This seismic sequence is a perfect case study to shed some light on the tectonic and rupture processes in the context of both geodynamics and seismic hazard assessment.
1923–2023: One Century since Formulation of the Effective Stress Principle, the Consolidation Theory and Fluid–Porous-Solid Interaction Models
Authors: Guerriero Vincenzo
Published: November 2022

In 1923, Karl Terzaghi developed the theory of soil consolidation in which he introduced the concept of effective stress (ES). Over the past century, various theoretical aspects have been unraveled regarding the Effective Stress Principle (ESP) and the fluid–porous-medium interaction in deformable permeable media; nevertheless, some aspects have been debated for a long time, and some perplexities are still perceived among scientists and professionals. By way of example, in the study of flow in deformable permeable media, particularly in fractured porous systems, some problems are still open. This review is aimed at providing an overview of the progress achieved over the past century in the theoretical and experimental treatment of ESP—with particular reference to saturated porous media—and of the geomechanical aspects of fluid flow and fluid–rock interaction, trying to answer to some common questions among professionals, such as what is the correct expression for the ES to be used in applications and why there are various formulations? Additionally, we try to answer questions related to the modeling of fluid flow in fractured porous media. Therefore, this review paper is divided into two main sections, “Effective Stress Principle” and “Fluid Flow, Consolidation, and Fluid–Rock Interaction”. In the first section, the basic concepts and the theory underlying the ESP are preliminarily illustrated, with a simple but rigorous theoretical proof, and, subsequently, historical remarks are provided. The second illustrates the different adopted theoretical approaches to fluid flow, starting from Terzaghi’s theory of one-dimensional consolidation up to the recent dual- and multiple-porosity models.
Barriers and Facilitators of Availability of Hydroxyurea for Sickle Cell Disease in Tanzania; A Qualitative Study of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers, Importers, and Regulators
Authors: Mlyuka Hamu J. , Kilonzi Manase , Mutagonda Ritah F. , Chirande Lulu , Mikomangwa Wigilya P. , Myemba David T. , Sambayi Godfrey , Mwakawanga Dorkasi L. , Ndunguru Joyce , Jonathan Agnes , Makani Julie , Ruggajo Paschal , Minja Irene K. , Balandya Emmanuel , Kamuhabwa Appolinary A. R.
Published: November 2022

Despite three decades of proven safety and effectiveness of hydroxyurea in modifying sickle cell disease (SCD), its accessibility is limited in Sub-Saharan Africa, which shares 75% of the world’s SCD burden. Therefore, it is time to explore the barriers and facilitators for manufacturing and importation of hydroxyurea for SCD in Tanzania. This was qualitative research that employed a case study approach. Purposive sampling followed by an in-depth interview (IDI) using a semi-structured questionnaire aspired by data saturation enabled us to gather data from 10 participants. The study participants were people with more than three years of experience in pharmaceuticals importation, manufacturing, and regulation. The audio-recorded data were verbatim transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Two themes were generated. The first comprised barriers for importation and manufacturing of hydroxyurea with sub-themes such as inadequate awareness of SCD and hydroxyurea, limited market, and investment viability. The second comprised opportunities for importation and manufacturing of hydroxyurea with sub-themes such as awareness of activities performed by medicines regulatory authority and basic knowledge on SCD and hydroxyurea. Inadequate understanding of SCD, hydroxyurea, and orphan drug regulation are major issues that aggravate the concern for limited market and investment viability. Existing opportunities are a starting point towards increasing the availability of hydroxyurea.
Weight Management for Students with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Qualitative Study
Authors: Siman Tov Ayelet , Halevi Hochwald Inbal , Tesler Riki , Green Gizell
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Individuals with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are more likely to respond with an ineffective coping behavior, combined with an increased risk of weight gain and unhealthy food consumption. The aim of the study was to examine coping strategies adopted by overweight adults with ADHD to promote healthy behaviors and weight-control management. (2) Methods: Descriptive qualitative research using semi-structured interviews analyzed through a thematic content-analysis approach. The study included 30 college students diagnosed with ADHD, with a BMI ≥ 25.5, who had lost ≥10 kg within at least one year and successfully maintained that weight for the past three years. (3) Results: The study yielded two main themes. The first is struggling with disappointments and negative feelings in the past, and the second is the reciprocity between weight management and coping skills strategies. The second theme includes three subthemes—cognitive strategies, behavioral strategies, and emotional strategies. (4) Conclusions: It is essential to understand the variety of coping strategies used by adults to cope with ADHD challenges that can potentially improve weight control management and healthy behaviors to design better, more accurate interventions, promoting the target population’s well-being and health.
Exploring People’s Knowledge of Genetics and Attitude towards Genetic Testing: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Population with a High Prevalence of Consanguinity
Authors: Alotaibi Amal , Alkhaldi Njoud Khaled , AlNassir Areej Mustafa , AlAyoubi Leenah Ayman , AlMalki Nada Abdulrahman , Almughyiri Rahaf Abdullah , AlDosary Reem Hussain , Cordero Mary Anne Wong
Published: November 2022

This study investigated people’s knowledge of genetics, attitudes toward genetic testing, and views on consanguinity. This cross-sectional study utilized a validated questionnaire modified from published studies to collect data on people’s knowledge of genetics and attitudes about genetic testing among 1008 respondents from various Saudi Arabian regions. Using SPSS software version 26, data were analyzed using a t-test, ANOVA, and multivariate analysis. p-values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant. About 59.9% of the participants had sufficient knowledge of genetics, and around 50% had a favorable attitude toward genetic testing. Knowledge of genetics is significantly correlated (p ≤ 0.001) with a positive attitude toward genetic testing. Gender, age, level of education, marital status, family income, and family history were significantly correlated with respondents’ understanding of genetics. Gender, family income, residence, and family history were associated with attitudes toward genetic testing at a 0.05 level of significance. There is a need to strengthen peoples’ knowledge of genetics and attitudes toward genetic testing through diverse educational programs and healthcare strategies. Impetus on how to disseminate genetic information on consanguinity and transmission of diseases should be prioritized in regions where consanguineous marriages are high.
White Blood Cell Classification Using Texture and RGB Features of Oversampled Microscopic Images
Authors: Rustam Furqan , Aslam Naila , De La Torre Díez Isabel , Khan Yaser Daanial , Mazón Juan Luis Vidal , Rodríguez Carmen Lili , Ashraf Imran
Published: November 2022

White blood cell (WBC) type classification is a task of significant importance for diagnosis using microscopic images of WBC, which develop immunity to fight against infections and foreign substances. WBCs consist of different types, and abnormalities in a type of WBC may potentially represent a disease such as leukemia. Existing studies are limited by low accuracy and overrated performance, often caused by model overfit due to an imbalanced dataset. Additionally, many studies consider a lower number of WBC types, and the accuracy is exaggerated. This study presents a hybrid feature set of selective features and synthetic minority oversampling technique-based resampling to mitigate the influence of the above-mentioned problems. Furthermore, machine learning models are adopted for being less computationally complex, requiring less data for training, and providing robust results. Experiments are performed using both machine- and deep learning models for performance comparison using the original dataset, augmented dataset, and oversampled dataset to analyze the performances of the models. The results suggest that a hybrid feature set of both texture and RGB features from microscopic images, selected using Chi2, produces a high accuracy of 0.97 with random forest. Performance appraisal using k-fold cross-validation and comparison with existing state-of-the-art studies shows that the proposed approach outperforms existing studies regarding the obtained accuracy and computational complexity.
The Impacts of Work-Life Balance on the Emotional Exhaustion and Well-Being of College Teachers in China
Authors: Wei Changwu , Ye Jian-Hong
Published: November 2022

UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 states that “Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being at all ages is essential to sustainable development.” The sustainable well-being of college teachers deserves attention. Currently, college teachers in China are facing enormous challenges and pressures, which may increase their emotional exhaustion (EE) and hinder the sustainable development of their well-being (WB). Therefore, this study examined Chinese college teachers’ well-being in relation to their work-life balance (WLB) and EE. An online survey was conducted. The valid subjects included 586 college teachers (367 females, 62.6%). We assessed their WLB, EE, and WB. The results revealed that among the Chinese college teachers, (1) WLB was negatively correlated with EE, but positively correlated with WB; EE was negatively correlated with WB; (2) EE partially mediated the relationship between WLB and WB; and (3) College teachers who are male, class tutors, and in public colleges scored higher on EE and lower on WLB and WB than those who are female, non-class tutors, and in private colleges, respectively. The findings indicated that WLB is an important factor for the sustainable development of the well-being of college teachers, and special attention should be paid to college teachers who are male, class tutors, and in public colleges in China.
Sustainable Restoration Guided by Scientific and Archival Investigations: The Bio-Cleaning of Lorenzo Duke of Urbino’s Sarcophagus, a Michelangelo’s Masterpiece in the Medici Chapels
Authors: Alisi Chiara , Magrini Donata , Vettori Silvia , Salvadori Barbara , Vincenti Marina , Manna Daniela , Bietti Monica , Sprocati Anna Rosa
Published: November 2022

The masterpiece this work deals with is the tomb of Lorenzo de’ Medici, Duke of Urbino, completed by Michelangelo around 1533 in the New Sacristy of Medici chapel in Florence. Sacristy underwent an extensive restoration (2013–2020) and Lorenzo’s sarcophagus was addressed in the last phase (2019–2020). The unique history and the mediocre state of conservation of the marble may be related to body decomposition processes that, according to the documentary research, required a scientific approach to tailor an appropriate intervention. The sarcophagus underwent a bio-cleaning procedure, using bacteria belonging to the ENEA-MIRRI (Microbial Resource Research Infrastructure Italian Node) collection. Spectroscopic analysis (FTIR in ATR and in TR—total reflection—mode and XRF) and microscopic analyses allowed a correct diagnosis of the composition of the coherent deposits, guiding the selection of appropriate bacterial strains. Deposits were composed of gypsum, calcium oxalate, calcium phosphates and proteins. Following a laboratory screening and a preliminary test on-site, the three strains, Serratia ficaria SH7, Pseudomonas stutzeri CONC11 and Rhodococcus sp. ZCONT, immobilised in an appropriate supportant gel, were selected by the quality of cleaning obtained. Two applications of the micro-packs, containing each individual strain, were able to remove the centuries-old deposits within 48 h. The bio-cleaning was selective, gradual and respectful of the marble, in accordance with the restorers’ opinion and reflecting the principles of sustainability.
The Pathogen of Top Rot Disease in Rosa roxburghii and Its Effective Control Fungicides
Authors: Li Jiaohong , Luo Yue , Lu Min , Wu Xiaomao , An Huaming
Published: November 2022

Top rot is a new fungal fruit disease in Rosa roxburghii production regions of southwest China. In this study, the pathogen of top rot disease in R. roxburghii fruits was firstly identified as Colletotrichum fructicola CXCDF-3 based on the pathogenicity, morphology, and multigene phylogenetic analysis. The biological property test results indicated that the optimal growth conditions of C. fructicola CXCDF-3 were 25 °C, pH 6.0~8.0, full light or darkness, D-(+) maltose, peptone, and PDA medium. Moreover, difenoconazole, tebuconazole, azoxystrobin, prothioconazole, thiophanate-methyl, prochloraz, carbendazim, and cyprodinil displayed superior toxicity activities to C. fructicola CXCDF-3 with EC50 values of 0.26, 0.64, 0.99, 2.15, 4.64, 4.89, 7.27, and 7.73 mg L−1, respectively. The field control efficacies of 80% tebuconazole water-dispersible granule (WG) 6000-fold liquid, 10% difenoconazole WG 5000-fold liquid, and 250 g/L azoxystrobin emulsifiable concentrate (SC) 1000-fold liquid against top rot disease of R. roxburghii fruits were 85.44%, 84.47%, and 83.50%, respectively. This study reports for the first time that the novel top rot disease in R. roxburghii is caused by C. fructicola and highlights that 80% tebuconazole WG, 10% difenoconazole WG, and 250 g/L azoxystrobin SC could be recommended for controlling top rot disease.
A Study of Scion Phenotypes in Pummelo Grafted onto a New Citrus Rootstock Citrus junos ‘Pujiang Xiangcheng’
Authors: Xie Rui , He Wen , Chai Jiufeng , Luo Liang , Wang Yan , Chen Qing , Tang Haoru , Wang Xiaorong
Published: November 2022

Citrus is one of the most important fruit crops in the world. Citrus junos Siebold ex Tanaka cv. Pujiang Xiangcheng is a new rootstock with a good grafting affinity and multiple abiotic stress tolerance. In this study, the effects of ‘Pujiang Xiangcheng’ and two commonly used rootstocks for Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merrill cv. Guanxi Miyou, considering their growth, photosynthetic performance, phytohormones and fruit quality, were evaluated. There was little difference between three graft combinations in the height and diameter of the scions. However, the rootstock ‘Pujiang Xiangcheng’ can cause an up-regulated photosynthetic capacity. In addition, ‘Guanxi Miyou’ on ‘Pujiang Xiangcheng’ had the highest total sugar (TS) content (129.28 mg·g−1) and the lowest titratable acid (TA) content (0.78 g·100 mL−1) in 2020 and the highest TSS (11.84%) in 2021. There was no significant difference in the TSS-to-acid ratio between the fruit of ‘Guanxi Miyou’ on trifoliate orange (13.41) and ‘Pujiang Xiangcheng’ (15.68), but it was significantly higher than that of ‘Guanxi Miyou’ on sour pummelo (11.61). Moreover, the comprehensive fruit quality of ‘Guanxi Miyou’ on ‘Pujiang Xiangcheng’ was better than on sour pummelo and trifoliate orange based on two-year statistics. We suggest that ‘Pujiang Xiangcheng’ might be the appropriate rootstock of ‘Guanxi Miyou’ in production compared with sour pummelo and trifoliate orange.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profile Analysis of the WUSCHEL-Related Homeobox (WOX) Genes in Woodland Strawberry (Fragaria vesca)
Authors: Yang Xu , Zhao Xinyong , Miao Yanan , Wang Dongxue , Zhang Zhihong , Liu Yuexue
Published: November 2022

The WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) is a unique transcription factor family belonging to plants. Its members play important roles in regulation of plant stem cell division and differentiation or dynamic balance of the organ development. In this study, 16 Fragaria vesca WOX members (FvWOXs) were identified in the woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca) genome. According to the phylogenetic analysis, FvWOX proteins can be classified into three clades: the ancient clade, the WUS clade and the intermediate clade. The gene structure and protein motif analysis showed that FvWOXs are highly conserved to each other in their respective clades. Chromosome location analysis revealed that FvWOXs are unevenly distributed in the Fragaria vesca chromosomes. Expression analysis showed that FvWOX genes are widely expressed in various tissues of Fragaria vesca. Moreover, when treated with 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA) or gibberellin (GA3), expression level changes of the genes highly expressed in crowns were detected at 48 h after treatment. The subcellular localization of FvWUSb was determined in tobacco leaves, indicating that the protein is located in the nucleus. This study enlarged our recognition about the WUSCHEL-related homeobox genes in Fragaria vesca, and laid a foundation for further researches about this gene family in strawberry.
Effect of Temperature on Photosynthesis and Fruit Quality of ‘Mihong’ Peaches under High CO2 Concentrations
Authors: Lee Seul Ki , Han Jeom Hwa , Cho Jung Gun , Jeong Jae Hoon , Lee Kwang-Sik , Ryu Suhyun , Choi Dong Geun
Published: November 2022

We investigated the effects of elevated temperatures on the photosynthetic characteristics and fruit quality of the ‘Mihong’ peach (Prunus persica) under high carbon dioxide concentrations based on climate change scenario RCP 8.5. We simulated three different temperature conditions (control; the average temperature in normal years in Jeonju city, C+3.4 °C, C+5.7 °C) and 700 μmol·mol−1 CO2 (expected in the mid-21st century). The average photosynthetic rates were 10.64, 10.21, and 8.18 μmol∙m−2∙s−1 at C+3.4 °C, control, and C+5.7 °C, respectively. The chlorophyll content in the control and C+3.4 °C increased compared to that at the early stage of growth, but that of C+5.7 °C decreased rapidly. The fruit weight was the highest for C+3.4 °C (158.2 g), followed by C+5.7 °C (129.5 g) and the control (127.3 g). The shoot length increased at C+3.4 °C and C+5.7 °C when compared to the control, and there was no significant difference in the other growth characteristics. The carbohydrate content was the highest at C+3.4 °C, and the nitrogen content increased as the temperature increased. Moreover, the C/N ratio decreased as the temperature increased but there was no significant difference. The rate of floral bud differentiation decreased as temperature increased, and that of C+5.7 °C was the lowest due to the low C/N ratio, vegetative growth dominance, and early defoliation. Furthermore, the floral bud density was low in the C+5.7 °C treatment. These findings indicate that a temperature increase of 5.7 °C under 700 μmol·mol−1 CO2 conditions will negatively affect the physiological response and fruit quality of the early-maturing peach variety ‘Mihong,’ and yield is expected to decrease in the following year.
The Effect of Neurodynamic Techniques on the Dispersion of Intraneural Edema: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nuñez de Arenas-Arroyo Sergio , Martínez-Vizcaíno Vicente , Cavero-Redondo Iván , Álvarez-Bueno Celia , Reina-Gutierrez Sara , Torres-Costoso Ana
Published: November 2022

Background: There is evidence for the positive effects of neurodynamic techniques in some peripheral entrapment neuropathies, but the rationale for these effects has not been validated. We aimed to estimate the direct effect of neurodynamic techniques on the dispersion of artificially induced intraneural edema measured by dye spread in cadavers. Methods: We systematically searched the MEDLINE, WOS, Scopus, and the Cochrane databases from inception to February 2020 for experimental studies addressing the efficacy of neurodynamic techniques on the dispersion of artificially induced intraneural edema. The DerSimonian and Laird method was used to compute pooled estimates of the mean differences (MDs) and its respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were conducted according to the type of neurodynamic technique. In addition, a 95% prediction interval was calculated to reflect the variation in true treatment effects in different settings, including the effect to be expected in future patients. Results: Pooled results showed a significant increase in fluid dispersion (MD = 2.57 mm; 95%CI: 1.13 to 4.01). Subgroup analysis showed increased dye spread in the tensioning techniques group (MD = 2.22 mm; 95%CI: 0.86 to 3.57). Conclusion: Neurodynamic techniques improved the intraneural edema dispersion and should be considered for the management of peripheral compression neuropathies. Furthermore, tensioning techniques appear to be effective in helping to disperse intraneural edema.
An Evaluation of Exposure to 18 Toxic and/or Essential Trace Elements Exposure in Maternal and Cord Plasma during Pregnancy at Advanced Maternal Age
Authors: Gu Tingfei , Jia Xiaoqian , Shi Huifeng , Gong Xiaoli , Ma Jinxi , Gan Zhihang , Yu Zhixin , Li Zhiwen , Wei Yuan
Published: November 2022

Pregnant women of advanced maternal age (AMA) are vulnerable to exposure to the surrounding environment. Assessment of trace elements in pregnant women living in specific areas is important for biomonitoring. However, exposure levels and variation patterns during pregnancy remains controversial and attracts extensive public concern. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate exposure of 18 toxic and/or essential trace elements in maternal plasma and in paired cord plasma during pregnancy at AMA. A total of 48 pregnant women of AMA were recruited in Peking University Third Hospital from 2018 to 2021. Eighteen elements found in maternal plasma during the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd trimester of pregnancy and paired cord plasma were measured by 7700x ICP-MS (Agilent Technologies, Palo Alto, CA, USA) and Elan DRC type II ICP-MS (The Perkin-Elmer Corporation, Waltham, MA USA). Concentrations of Pb, Se, Fe, Zn, and Mo all decreased during pregnancy, while Cu increased. Interestingly, concentrations of Rb decreased initially but then increased. Elements as Al, Co, Se, Cu, and Ni showed significantly lower levels in cord than in maternal plasma, while elements as Sr, Fe, Rb, Mn and Zn displayed significantly higher levels in cord than in maternal plasma. Moreover, positively- interacted clusters were found in Ni-Co-Cu-Al-Rb-Zn and Zn-Mn-Al-Pb in maternal blood. Similar positively-interacted clusters were found in Zn-Ni-Co, Zn-Ni-Fe, Mn-Al-Pb, Fe-Pb-Mn, Fe-Ni-Cu, and Rb-Cu-Sb-Fe-Mn in cord plasma. Furthermore, correlations between paired maternal and cord blood samples for As, Sr, and Mo were statistically significant, indicating that the fetus burden may reflect maternal exposure to some extent. Admittedly, levels of toxic and essential elements in our cohort study were comparatively lower than those in the scientific literature.
Preliminary Research on the Sustainable Determinants of Taiwanese Ecotourism with the International Standards
Authors: Huang Chih-Cheng , Chan Yung-Kuan , Hsieh Ming Yuan
Published: November 2022

To analyze Taiwanese ecotourism with international standards, this research employed the social learning theory (SLT) to identify the determinants of Taiwanese community ecotourism with the international standards. This basic theory of social psychology comprehensively assays the interplays and interconnections among the three analytical perspectives (ecotourism tours, destinations, and accommodations), the four essential issues (management, social, cultural, and environment) of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, the six assessed dimensions of ecotourism resolution from the WCC, and the twenty-nine assessed indexes of the KES ecotourism evaluations. It was then possible to comprehensively explore the sustainable determinants of Taiwanese ecotourism with the international standards through the FA of quantitative and qualitative analyses in combination with the highest research validity, reliability, representativeness, and accuracy. After analyzing the evaluated measurements, the empirical and valuable conclusions and findings are (1) these analytical perspectives, appraised attitudes, evaluated criteria, and sub-criteria positively advance Taiwanese ecotourism with the international standards (PITEEICIS); (2) the sustainable determinants of Taiwanese ecotourism with the international standards include the Support for Capacity Building of the Local Community (SCBLC), Cooperation with the Local Community (CLC), Supports for the Local Enterprises (SLE), Local Participation and Benefits Sharing Duties (LPBSD), Tourist Management (TM), and Responsible Tourist Behaviors Inducement (RTBI). Importantly, the majority of ecotourism industrialists and experts still focus on the economic benefits, such as supporting the local community and enterprises, rather than tourist behavior inducement to stimulate ecotourism participation in order to promote and advance the Taiwanese ecotourism to the international standards; (3) in order to promote Taiwanese ecotourism to the international conventions, the Taiwanese government and organizations in ecotourism should contribute toward the local welfare and create and design various training programs and courses to enhance local community’s awareness and capability of ecotourism development in order to establish a complete system that stimulates the ongoing planning and decision making of local community participation and regularly monitors, records, and reflects their opinions, based on the area’s history, culture, and natural attributes, to develop and sell sustainable local products by creating fair trade principles and valuable products.
Evaluation of Work Mode and Its Importance for Home–Work and Work–Home Relationships: The Role of Resilience, Coping with Stress, and Passion for Work
Authors: Sygit-Kowalkowska Ewa , Piotrowski Andrzej , Boe Ole , Rawat Samir , Minic Jelena , Predoiu Alexandra , Predoiu Radu , Vazne Žermēna , Fernate Andra , Malinauskas Romualdas , Phuc Nguyen Nguyen , Blenkinsopp John , Martinská Mária
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated and facilitated the introduction of telework in organizations. This has also impacted the workers’ relationship between work and private life. The aim of the current study was to examine the links between resilience and mode of work (stationary vs. remote) and the work–home and home–work relationships, and whether they are mediated by passion for work and strategies of coping with stress. The study was carried out on a sample of 1251 participants from Great Britain, India, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, and Vietnam. The following measures were used: The Survey Work–Home Interaction, The Brief Resilience Coping Scale, The Passion Scale, and the Brief COPE. Results showed that the more stationary the mode of work, the lower the intensity of the negative influence of personal life on work. Resilience was revealed to have a positive effect on worker functioning. The study also showed a relationship between education and gender and passion for work. Finally, the importance of furthering the knowledge on the home–work and work–home relationships among teleworkers is discussed.
Assessing the Impact of a Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) Intervention on Physician/Healthcare Professional Burnout: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Kavanaugh John , Hardison Mark E. , Rogers Heidi Honegger , White Crystal , Gross Jessica
Published: November 2022

Professional healthcare worker burnout is a crisis in the United States healthcare system. This crisis can be viewed at any level, from the national to local communities, but ultimately, must be understood at the level of the individual who is caring for patients. Thus, interventions to reduce burnout symptoms must prioritize the mental health of these individuals by alleviating some of the symptoms of depression, grief, and anxiety that accompany burnout. The practice of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) is a specific evidence-based practice which research has shown can improve an individual’s mental health and, when performed in a group, can support a sense of social connection. We investigated the impact of a three-hour, guided Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) nature-based intervention on burnout symptoms among physicians and other healthcare workers by using a randomized, controlled trial. The Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) and Mini-Z assessments were used to collect baseline burnout scores and participants were randomized into the intervention group, which completed the assessment again after the Shinrin-Yoku walk, or into a control group, which completed the assessments again after a day off from any clinical duties. A total of 34 participants were enrolled in the intervention group and a total of 22 participants were enrolled in the control group. Ultimately, no statistically significant differences were detected between the pre-test and post-test scores for the intervention group or between the post-test scores of the intervention group compared to the control group. However, the subjective responses collected from participants after participating in the Shinrin-Yoku walk overwhelmingly reported decreased feelings of stress and increased mental wellbeing. This raises important questions about the difference between symptoms of burnout and other aspects of mental health, as well as the limitations of a one-time nature-based intervention on levels of chronic burnout symptoms. Thus, further research on the effects of engaging healthcare providers in an ongoing practice of Shinrin-Yoku is warranted.
Current Research Trends, Hotspots, and Frontiers of Physical Activity during Pregnancy: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Zhou Yanbing , Guo Xian , Mu Jinhao , Liu Jingying , Yang Hongying , Cai Chenxi
Published: November 2022

Purpose: Physical activity (PA) during pregnancy has been proven beneficial to pregnant women, with a significant effect on ameliorating many severe gestational complications. This work aimed to reveal current research trends, hotspots, and future frontiers in PA during pregnancy. Methods: Software CiteSpace was used to perform a bibliometric analysis with 1415 publications in the Web of Science Core Collection. Results: the number of published papers on PA during pregnancy has increased gradually by year. The United States has made the most significant contribution to the research on this topic, ranking first in the world in both the number and centrality of research. A total of 54 articles (3.8%) were published in 2022. A majority of publications were research articles (n = 1176, 78.9%). The authors and institutions of the research published have more inter-country collaborations. Different patterns of PA, prevention, and amelioration of pregnancy complications are major research hotspots. Improvement of sedentary behaviour, lifestyle intervention through leisure-time PA, and preterm care are major research frontiers and have received extensive attention in recent years. Conclusions: The current scientometric study presents an overview of PA during pregnancy research conducted throughout the preceding decades. The conclusions of this work might serve as a reference for researchers who are interested in this field.
Desire for Children and Distress in Women with Hereditary Cancer Syndromes
Authors: Kastner Anna Maria , Kocak Hatice Kübra , Fischer-Jacobs Josefine , Hahne Andrea , Zimmermann Tanja
Published: November 2022

The diagnosis of a hereditary cancer syndrome can be psychologically stressful and influence family planning. This study aimed to gain insights into the relationship between the desire for children and the distress of female carriers. Women (N = 255) with different hereditary cancer syndromes were assessed from November 2019 to July 2021 at genetic counseling centers, the centers of the German HBOC-Consortium and the centers of the German HNPCC-Consortium regarding their distress levels with the NCCN Distress Thermometer (DT). The desire for children was measured by self-developed questions. Levels of distress and desire for children were evaluated descriptively. Factors influencing the desire for children and distress were calculated using binary logistic regression: 56% (n = 51) of 18- to 39-year-old participants reported a desire to have children; 70.6% of the carriers with a desire for children indicated a need for advice from their physicians regarding family planning. The diagnosis led 61.5% to postpone the timing of family planning, and the majority (68.8%) opted for an earlier birth. Carriers had higher levels of distress. Younger carriers (p = 0.037) and those living in poorer economic circumstances (p = 0.011) were more distressed. The diagnosis of hereditary cancer syndrome affects family planning. The results emphasize the importance of physicians addressing family planning in their counseling sessions.
Comparison of Several Prediction Equations Using Skinfold Thickness for Estimating Percentage Body Fat vs. Body Fat Percentage Determined by BIA in 6–8-Year-Old South African Children: The BC–IT Study
Authors: Moeng-Mahlangu Lynn , Monyeki Makama A. , Reilly John J. , Kruger Herculina S.
Published: November 2022

Body composition measurement is useful for assessing percentage body fat (%BF) and medical diagnosis, monitoring disease progression and response to treatment, and is essential in assessing nutritional status, especially in children. However, finding accurate and precise techniques remains a challenge. The study compares %BF determined by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and calculated from available prediction equations based on skinfolds in young South African children. A cross-sectional study performed on 202 children (83 boys and 119 girls) aged 6–8 years. Height and weight, triceps and subscapular skinfolds were determined according to standard procedures. %BF was determined with BIA and three relevant available equations. SPSS analyzed the data using paired samples tests, linear regression, and Bland–Altman plots. Significant paired mean differences were found for BIA and Slaughter (t201 = 33.896, p < 0.001), Wickramasinghe (t201 = 4.217, p < 0.001), and Dezenberg (t201 = 19.910, p < 0.001). For all of the equations, the standards for evaluating prediction errors (SEE) were above 5. The Bland–Altman plots show relatively large positive and negative deviations from the mean difference lines and trends of systematic under- and over-estimation of %BF across the %BF spectrum. All three equations demonstrated a smaller %BF than the %BF measured by BIA, but the difference was smallest with the Wickramasinghe equation. In comparison, a poor SEE was found in the three %BF predicted equations and %BF derived from BIA. As such, an age-specific %BF equation incorporating criterion methods of deuterium dilution techniques or ‘gold-standard’ methods is needed to refute these findings. However, in the absence of developed %BF equations or ‘gold-standard’ methods, the available prediction equations are still desirable.
Studying the Research–Practice Gap in Physical Therapies for Cerebral Palsy: Preliminary Outcomes Based on a Survey of Spanish Clinicians
Authors: Sanchez Cristina , Lerma-Lara Sergio , Garcia-Carmona Rodrigo , Urendes Eloy , Laccourreye Paula , Raya Rafael
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this work is to study the gap between the research evidence and the clinical practice in the physical rehabilitation of people with cerebral palsy. A review process was performed to (1) identify physical therapies to improve postural control in children with cerebral palsy and (2) determine the scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of those therapies. A Likert-based survey addressing a total of 43 healthcare professionals involved in pediatric physical therapy departments in Spain was carried out. The discussion was mainly supported by studies of level I or II evidence (according to the Oxford scale). The search process yielded 50 studies reporting 16 therapies. A strong positive correlation between the most used treatments and elevated levels of satisfaction was found. Some well-known but not often used techniques, such as hippotherapy, were identified. The treatment with the highest degree of use and satisfaction—neurodevelopment therapy (Bobath)—and some emerging techniques, such as virtual reality, were also identified. The fact that there is a meaningful gap between clinical practice and the scientific evidence was confirmed. The identified gap brings a certain degree of controversy. While some classic and well-known therapies had poor levels of supporting evidence, other relatively new approaches showed promising results.
Menstrual Health Experiences of People with Intellectual Disabilities and Their Caregivers during Vanuatu’s Humanitarian Responses: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Wilbur Jane , Poilapa Relvie , Morrison Chloe
Published: November 2022

Attention to menstrual health in humanitarian responses is increasing, but evidence related to people with intellectual disabilities and their caregivers is absent. This study begins to address that. We applied purposive sampling to select 17 women and girls (aged 15–31) with intellectual disabilities, their 17 caregivers in SANMA province, Vanuatu, and seven key informants. We used in-depth interviews, PhotoVoice and ranking, and observation and analysed data thematically using Nvivo 12. We found that caregivers wished to maintain the person’s safety and privacy, especially when menstruating, which reduced evacuation options. People with intellectual disabilities support requirements sometimes increased after emergencies. This meant caregivers were less able to work and recover from disasters. Caregivers requested the distribution of more reusable menstrual materials and a greater choice, including adult-sized diapers for menstruation and incontinence. Key informants noted that menstrual health interventions must always be delivered to people with intellectual disabilities and their caregivers so that menstrual health knowledge and practices exist before emergencies. We found that men and women supported people with intellectual disabilities’ menstrual health, thus challenging gendered assumptions about caregiving. Efforts to achieve menstrual health for this population within disaster preparedness plans must be included. If not, families will fall further into poverty every time a disaster hits Vanuatu.
Determinants of Direct Costs of HIV-1 Outpatient Care in Israel
Authors: Rom Tom , Levy Itzchak , Perlman Saritte , Ziv-Baran Tomer , Mor Orna
Published: November 2022

HIV-1 patients place an economic burden on the health system. The objectives of this study were to estimate the direct HIV-1 costs and cost-related factors of HIV-1 patients in Israel and identify cost predictors. We conducted a retrospective study of randomly selected HIV-1 patients aged ≥18 who visited a large outpatient clinic in 2015 and/or 2019. Yearly costs of physician and nurse visits, antiretroviral therapy (ART) and laboratory tests were calculated in USD using the 2020 purchasing power parities. Associations between disease characteristics and costs were analyzed using univariate and multivariable analysis. The median (IQR) total direct costs per patient per year were USD 12,387 (9813–14,124) and USD 12,835 (11,651–13,970) in 2015 (n = 284) and 2019 (n = 290), respectively. ART accounted for approximately 77% of all direct costs, followed by laboratory tests (20%) and medical visits (3%) in both studied years. Being female (USD +710), first yearly viral load <50 c/mL (+$1984) and ≥20 years with HIV-1 (USD +1056) were independently associated with higher costs. In conclusion, HIV-1 cost was stable in the studied period. Viral load and time since diagnosis were the major determinants associated with HIV-1 costs. ART and laboratory tests accounted for 97% of the costs. Therefore, these factors should be considered when planning future expenditures.