bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Intervention Associated With Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training Leads to Changes in the Inflammatory Profile in Visceral Adipose Tissue but Not in Skeletal Muscle in Diet-Induced Obese Rats
Authors: Costa Jean Lucas Fernandes da , Furino Vanessa de Oliveira , de Castro Cynthia Aparecida , Alves João Manoel , Duarte Ana Cláudia Garcia de Oliveira
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to determine the concentrations of inflammatory markers in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and skeletal muscle, and changes in body mass and adipocyte size in diet-induced obese rats after moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) and/or dietary intervention. After 8 weeks of obesity induction through a high-fat diet (HFD) consumption, twenty diet-induced obese male Wistar rats were divided into four groups as follows: (i) control rats fed with HFD (HFD-SED), (ii) obese rats fed with HFD and submitted to MICT (HFD-MICT), (iii) obese rats that were submitted to a nutritional intervention by switching HFD to chow diet (CD-SED), and (iv) obese rats that were submitted to MICT and nutritional intervention (CD-MICT). All the animals in the training groups were submitted to MICT, with an intensity of 50–85% of Vmax, 60 min/day, 3 days/week for 8 weeks. Gastrocnemius muscle (GAST) and mesenteric adipose tissue (mWAT) were collected to quantify tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-10 using ELISA. The body mass was recorded before and after the experimental protocols, and the adipocyte morphology was assessed using histological analysis. The results showed that HFD-SED had higher body mass, higher concentrations of inflammatory markers in mWAT, and higher increase in adipocyte size. The CD-SED and CD-MICT groups presented with reduced body mass, relative weight of mWAT, and adipocyte size. Moreover, the inflammatory markers in mWAT were reduced after dietary intervention (TNF-α), MICT (IL-10 and TNF-α), or both interventions combined (IL-6 and TNF-α). In contrast, there was no reduction in GAST-relative weight or concentrations of inflammatory markers for any treatment. Finally, we concluded that 8 weeks of dietary intervention alone and combined with MICT were effective in reducing some of the deleterious effects caused by obesity.
Dissection of the Genetic Architecture for Quantities of Gliadins Fractions in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Zhou Zhengfu , Geng Shenghui , Guan Huiyue , Liu Congcong , Qin Maomao , Li Wenxu , Shi Xia , Dai Ziju , Yao Wen , Lei Zhensheng , Wu Zhengqing , Hou Jinna
Published: March 2022

Gliadin is a group of grain storage proteins that confers extensibility/viscosity to the dough and are vital to end-use quality in wheat. Moreover, gliadins are one of the important components for nutritional quality because they contain the nutritional unprofitable epitopes that cause chronic immune-mediated intestinal disorder in genetically susceptible individuals designated celiac disease (CD). The main genetic loci encoding the gliadins were revealed by previous studies; however, the genes related to the content of gliadins and their fractions were less elucidated. To illustrate the genetic basis of the content of gliadins and their fractions comprehensively, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population that consisted of 196 lines was constructed from the two parents, Luozhen No.1 and Zhengyumai 9987. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling the content of total gliadins and their fractions (ω-, α-, and γ-gliadin) were screened genome-widely under four environments across 2 years. Totally, thirty QTL which explained 1.97–12.83% of the phenotypic variation were detected to be distributed on 17 chromosomes and they were gathered into 12 clusters. One hundred and one pairs of epistatic QTL (E-QTL) were revealed, among which five were involved with the total gliadins and its fractions content QTL located on chromosome 1AS, 1DS, 4DS, 1DL, and 6AS. Three Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) markers were developed from three major QTL clusters located on chromosomes 6A, 6D, and 7D, respectively. The present research not only dissects the genetic loci for improving the content of gliadins and their three fractions, but may also contribute to marker-assisted selection of varieties with appropriate gliadin fractions content for end-use quality and health benefit at the early developmental stages and early breeding generations.
Online Mindfulness Intervention for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Adherence and Efficacy
Authors: Forbes Leila , Johnson Susan K.
Published: March 2022

The impact of stress and other psychological variables on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) prognosis, treatment response, and functional level is well-established; however, typical IBD treatment focuses on the physiological pathology of the disease and neglects complementary stress-reducing interventions. Recent pilot studies report the benefits of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in people living with IBD, but are limited by small sample sizes. Recruitment challenges to in-person studies may be in part due to the difficulty IBD patients often have adhering to fixed schedules and travel as a result of IBD symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and incontinence. The current study aimed to address this barrier by offering participants access to online mindfulness training, allowing individuals to engage with intervention materials to fit their own schedule. Online mindfulness programs have gained popularity in recent years, as they increase access and flexibility and decrease cost to the user; however, the dropout rate tends to be high. The current study compared the rate of adherence and efficacy of mindfulness training as a function of level of support: self-guided versus supported. Analysis revealed no significant difference in the benefits received between participants in the two groups; however, a significant difference group (χ2 = 15.75; p = 0.000, r = 0.38) was found in terms of rate of completion, with 44.1% of the supportive group completing the protocol compared to 11.7% of the self-guided. Common challenges to meditation were measured, but did not significantly predict adherence to the intervention, and experience of these challenges did not significantly change (increase or decrease) over the duration of the study. Implications of the current research, future directions for the use of MBI for IBD patients, and a discussion of methodological considerations are provided.
The Role of Wisdom in the Cross-Cultural Adaptation of Chinese Visiting Scholars to Canada: A Mediation Model
Authors: Bao Dan , Zhou Liqing , Ferrari Michel , Feng Zhe , Cheng Yahua
Published: March 2022

This study examines the role of wisdom in the cross-cultural adaptation of Chinese visiting scholars in Canada, as mediated by different coping styles. Path analysis was used to for hypotheses testing. The findings suggest that (1) wisdom measured by 3D-WS and Adult Self-Transcendence Inventory (ASTI), independently had direct correlation with social and psychological adaptation, and positively associated with engaged coping (active coping and proactive–reflective coping); (2) the independent effects of 3D-WS and ASTI on social adaptation, psychological adaptation, and life satisfaction were mediated by proactive–reflective coping; (3) wisdom, when measured by 3D-WS, promoted positive psychological adaptation through decreasing passive coping. This study shows that wisdom is a critical factor affecting cross-cultural adaptation, and the use of proactive–reflective coping is a wise way of handling future life challenges.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder During the COVID-19 Pandemic—A Systematic Review
Authors: Linde Elisabeth S. , Varga Tibor V. , Clotworthy Amy
Published: March 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated restrictions may contribute to a deterioration in mental health; individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may be particularly affected. This systematic review aimed to investigate the effects of the current pandemic on people diagnosed with OCD, and whether pandemics may affect the development of OCD symptoms.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search using NCBI PubMed, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar on February 9, 2021. Research articles related to OCD and COVID-19 or other pandemics were attempted to be identified using pre-defined search terms. Case reports, clinical guidelines, letters, and clinical research articles including ≥100 participants were included; reviews were excluded. The systematic review adheres to PRISMA guidelines and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess the quality of the included clinical research articles.

Results

A total of 79 articles were included in the full-text assessment. Of these, 59 were clinical research articles, two were clinical guidelines, six were case reports, and 12 were letters. The research articles examined OCD symptoms in adult patients with diagnosed OCD, the general population, pregnant women, healthcare workers, students, and young adults, children, and adolescents. Only one study on OCD in previous pandemics was identified.

Conclusion

This systematic review found that people both with and without diagnosed OCD prior to the pandemic generally experienced a worsened landscape of symptoms of OCD during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the responses are heterogeneous and many factors other than the pandemic seemed to affect the development of OCD symptoms. To prevent the impairment of symptoms and the development of new cases, close monitoring of patients with OCD and education of the general public is essential. Literature is still limited; thus, multinational and cross-cultural, longitudinal studies are warranted to gain further insights on this topic.
Attitudes Toward a Pre-authorized Concealed Opioid Taper: A Qualitative Analysis of Patient and Clinician Perspectives
Authors: Bedford Theresa , Kisaalita Nkaku , Haycock Nathaniel R. , Mullins C. Daniel , Wright Thelma , Curatolo Michele , Hamlin Lynette , Colloca Luana
Published: March 2022

Standard opioid tapers tend to be associated with increased patient anxiety and higher pain ratings. Pre-authorized concealed opioid reductions may minimize expectations such as fear of increased pain due to the reduction of opioids and, prolong analgesic benefits in experimental settings. We recently observed that patients and clinicians are open to concealed opioid tapering. However, little is known about the “why” behind their attitudes. Based on this lack of data, we analyzed qualitative responses to survey questions on patients' and clinicians' acceptance of a concealed opioid reduction for chronic pain. Seventy-four patients with a history of high dose opioid therapy and 49 clinicians completed a web-based questionnaire with open-ended questions examining responses to two hypothetical clinical trials comparing a concealed opioid reduction pre-authorized by patients vs. standard tapering. We used content analysis based on qualitative descriptive methodology to analyze comments from the patients and clinicians. Five themes were identified: informed consent; anxiety; safety; support; and ignorance is bliss, or not. These themes highlight the overall positive attitudes toward concealed opioid tapers. Our findings reinforce the importance of patient-centered care and are expected to inform the design of clinical trials from both the patient and clinician perspective. This qualitative study presents patients' and clinicians' attitudes toward hypothetical scenarios for a trial of pre-authorized reduction of opioids. The findings indicate positive attitudes and the relevance of engaging patients with effective decision-making processes.
Positive Treatment Expectations Shape Perceived Medication Efficacy in a Translational Placebo Paradigm for the Gut-Brain Axis
Authors: Benson Sven , Theysohn Nina , Kleine-Borgmann Julian , Rebernik Laura , Icenhour Adriane , Elsenbruch Sigrid
Published: March 2022

Placebo research has established the pivotal role of treatment expectations in shaping symptom experience and patient-reported treatment outcomes. Perceived treatment efficacy constitutes a relevant yet understudied aspect, especially in the context of the gut-brain axis with visceral pain as key symptom. Using a clinically relevant experimental model of visceral pain, we elucidated effects of pre-treatment expectations on post-treatment perceived treatment efficacy as an indicator of treatment satisfaction in a translational placebo intervention. We implemented positive suggestions regarding intravenous treatment with a spasmolytic drug (in reality saline), herein applied in combination with two series of individually calibrated rectal distensions in healthy volunteers. The first series used distension pressures inducing pain (pain phase). In the second series, pressures were surreptitiously reduced, modeling pain relief (pain relief phase). Using visual analog scales (VAS), expected and perceived treatment efficacy were assessed, along with perceived pain intensity. Manipulation checks supported that the induction of positive pre-treatment expectations and the modeling of pain relief were successful. Generalized Linear Models (GLM) were implemented to assess the role of inter-individual variability in positive pre-treatment expectations in perceived treatment efficacy and pain perception. GLM indicated no association between pre-treatment expectations and perceived treatment efficacy or perceived pain for the pain phase. For the relief phase, pre-treatment expectations (p = 0.024) as well as efficacy ratings assessed after the preceding pain phase (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with treatment efficacy assessed after the relief phase, together explaining 54% of the variance in perceived treatment efficacy. The association between pre-treatment expectations and perceived pain approached significance (p = 0.057) in the relief phase. Our data from an experimental translational placebo intervention in visceral pain support that reported post-treatment medication efficacy is shaped by pre-treatment expectations. The observation that individuals with higher positive expectations reported less pain and higher treatment satisfaction after pain relief may provide first evidence that perceived symptom improvement may facilitate treatment satisfaction. The immediate experience of symptoms within a given psychosocial treatment context may dynamically change perceptions about treatment, with implications for treatment satisfaction, compliance and adherence of patients with conditions of the gut-brain axis.
Methodology of Measuring Motoric Cognitive Risk Syndrome—Focusing on Slow Gait Speed: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Su Liming , Sun Xue , Huang Cheng , Wei Zhuqin , Shen Xinhua , Wang Lina
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Older adults with motoric cognitive risk (MCR) syndrome are at high risk of developing dementia. Although the definition of MCR is well recognized and consensus, previous studies did not reach an agreement on diagnostic criteria and measurement methods/tools for slow gait speed, which is one of four components of MCR diagnosis. The substantial heterogeneity in the methodology of slow gait speed diagnosis for MCR limits comparability and meta-analysis of studies.

Objective

The study aims to conduct systematic and standardized integration for diagnostic criteria and methods of slow gait speed diagnosis for MCR based on previous evidence that may improve comparability between future studies.

Methods

A systematic literature review will be undertaken by searching the following electronic databases (until February 1, 2022): PUBMED, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, Web of Science. Additional studies will be identified by checking the reference lists of included studies or relevant reviews, manually searching the internet search engine Google Scholar, and searching the authors' personal files, if necessary. Two researchers will perform data extraction independently, and discrepancies will be resolved by discussion, which will include a third researcher if requires. The paper selection will perform in duplicate. Finally, a narrative account will synthesize the findings to answer the objectives of this review.

Discussion

This is the first study on systematic and standardized integration for diagnostic criteria and measurement methods/tools for slow gait speed in diagnosing MCR. The findings of this study will be convenient for medical staff to examine the intended use and applicability of each instrument/tool for evaluating the gait speed, and provide insight into developing uniform guidelines for MCR.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021232671.
Pathological Delta Oscillations in Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder: A Case Report
Authors: Haslacher David , Novkovic Nikolina , Buthut Maria , Heinz Andreas , Soekadar Surjo R.
Published: March 2022

Background

Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is characterized by spontaneous recurrence of visual hallucinations or disturbances after previous consumption of hallucinogens, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). The underlying physiological mechanisms are unknown and there is no standardized treatment strategy available.

Case Presentation

A 33-year-old male patient presented with persistent visual distortions (halos around objects, intensified colors, positive after images, and trails following moving objects) that developed after repeated use of hallucinogenic drugs at the age of 18. Symptoms developed gradually and worsened several months later, resulting in various pharmacological and psychosocial treatment attempts that remained unsuccessful, however. At presentation, 32-channel electroencephalography (EEG) showed increased delta activity over the occipital brain regions, reminiscent of occipital intermittent rhythmic delta activity (OIRDA) usually seen in children. Two sessions of cathodal (inhibitory) transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over 30 min attenuated visual hallucinations and occipital delta activity by approximately 60%. The response persisted for over four weeks.

Conclusion

Pathological delta activity over occipital brain regions may play an important role in the development and perpetuation of HPPD and can be attenuated by non-invasive brain stimulation.
Association Between Triglyceride–Glucose Index and the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in an Older Chinese Population Aged Over 75 Years
Authors: Fu Xiaomin , Liu Hongzhou , Liu Jing , Li Nan , Li Lele , Ke Dianshan , Liu Minyan , Lu Yanhui , Duan Lihua , Ma Linlin , Huo Yanfei , Lei Qinghua , Yan Shuangtong
Published: March 2022

Background

The association between the triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in older adults has not been fully understood. This research aims to explore the association between the TyG index and the incidence of T2DM in an older Chinese population aged over 75 years.

Methods

This longitudinal analysis study was performed based on a database from a health check screening program in China. The participants were stratified based on the quintile ranges of the TyG index (Q1 to Q5 groups). T2DM was defined as fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥ 7.00 mmol/L and/or self-reported T2DM. The cumulative incidences of T2DM in various quintile groups were estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to examine the independent impact of the TyG index on the risk of T2DM during the follow-up period. Subgroup analysis was performed by gender and BMI to further validate the credibility of the results.

Results

During the follow-up period, a total of 231 new-onset T2DM cases were recorded among the 2,571 individuals aged over 75 years. After adjusting confounding factors, elevated TyG index independently indicated a higher risk of T2DM (HR = 1.89; 95% CI, 1.47–2.44; p < 0.01). Higher TyG index quintile groups (Q3 to Q5) also presented with a higher risk of T2DM (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.36, 1.44, and 2.12, respectively) as compared with the lowest quintile group (Q1). Subgroup analysis showed that increased TyG index led to a higher risk of T2DM with HR = 2.35 (95% CI, 1.73–3.19), 1.90 (95% CI, 1.27–2.83), 2.95 (95% CI, 1.94–4.50), and 1.72 (95% CI, 1.25–2.35) in male subgroup, female subgroup, BMI < 24 kg/m2 subgroup, and BMI ≥ 24 kg/m2 subgroup, respectively.

Conclusions

Triglyceride–glucose index independently correlated with the risk of incident T2DM in Chinese adults aged over 75 years. The TyG index might be useful in monitoring T2DM in the older populations.
Community-Level Mental Health and Psychosocial Support During Armed Conflict: A Cohort Study From the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mali, and Nigeria
Authors: Andersen Ida , Rossi Rodolfo , Hubloue Ives
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Community-level mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) was the first type of MHPSS program launched by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) back in 2004. Standardized beneficiary-level monitoring was put in place in late 2018. This is the first study to explore whether this type of program correlates, as intended, with reduced psychological distress and increased daily functioning.

Methods

Between December 2018 and June 2020, 6,413 victims of violence received MHPSS through 32 community-level projects in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Mali and Nigeria. Symptoms of psychological distress (IES-R or DASS21) and daily functioning (ICRC scale) were assessed before and after the intervention and logistical regression models were used to identify predictors of these symptoms.

Findings

Victims of the violence committed by weapon bearers were more likely to show high levels of anxiety prior to MHPSS (aOR 3.51; p < 0.0001). Also, victims of physical violence were more likely to show high levels of stress (aOR 1.49; p < 0.0001), whereas victims who had witnessed physical violence were more like to report high levels of depression (aOR 2.54; p < 0.0001). The most common perpetrators were weapon bearers (76%) and the most common type of violence was rape (46%). Lack of social support stood out as a predictor of both high anxiety (aOR 2.10; p < 0.0001) and post-traumatic stress (aOR 2.04; p < 0.0001) prior to MHPSS. Following MHPSS, the vast majority of beneficiaries reported a reduction in distress on the DASS21 (96.58%) and the IES-R scales (92.70%) as well as an increase of functioning (82.26%). Adherence to group therapy (seven sessions on average) was stronger than adherence to individual therapy (four sessions on average). A linear trend was found between length of treatment and likelihood of reporting reduced symptoms of depression. Having suffered destruction or loss of property or income predicted less improvement of functioning following MHPSS (aOR 0.90; p = 0.044).

Conclusion

Receiving community-level MHPSS is associated with increased wellbeing among the vast majority of beneficiaries. To further enhance the intended health outcomes, it is recommended to increase the length of treatment per beneficiary (30 days minimum) and address, where relevant, the financial consequences of violence. Also, a longitudinal study is recommended to assess longer-term changes in MHPSS symptoms.
Role of Environmental Degradation, Institutional Quality, and Government Health Expenditures for Human Health: Evidence From Emerging Seven Countries
Authors: Wei Jiping , Rahim Syed , Wang Shizhen
Published: March 2022

The current study investigates the association of various economic, non-economic, governance, and environmental indicators on human health for seven emerging economies. Covering the period from 2000Q1 to 2018Q1, this study uses various panel data approaches for empirical estimations. The data is found first-order stationary. Besides, the panel slope is heterogeneous and cross-sectional dependence is present. Further, the cointegration association is found valid among the variables. Therefore, panel quantile regression is used to determine the long-run impact of each explanatory variable on human health at four quantiles (Q25, Q50, Q75, and Q90). The estimated results asserted that economic growth, government health expenditure, and human capital significantly reduce human health disasters like malaria incidences and cases. At the same time, greenhouse gas emissions and regulatory quality are significantly and positively correlated to human health issues in emerging economies. Moreover, mixed (unidirectional and bidirectional) causal associations exist between the variables. This study also provides relevant policy implications based on the empirical results, providing a path for regulating various economic, environmental, and governance sectors. Effective policy implementation and preventive measures can reduce the spread of diseases and mortality rates due to Malaria.
Does Sports Industry Matter in Human Wellbeing: Evidence From China?
Authors: Wang De Ping , Lin Juan
Published: March 2022

It is widely considered that sport and physical activities contribute to the development of human wellbeing. It is a fact that sport brings positive energy, discipline, and human wellbeing. Sports have an enormous effect on human health. Therefore, we assess the effects of the sports industry on the human health of China by using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach from 1998 to 2020. Findings show that sports activities significantly improve human health and wellbeing. Tourism has found a positive influence on health and helped to contribute to human wellbeing. Empirical results prove that health expenditure and financial development significantly increase the population health in China. China's government should focus on the sports and tourism industry to play an important role in human health and wellbeing.
Cardiac Simulations: Computer Games to Mend Broken Hearts
Authors: Rodero Cristobal , Lamata Pablo , Niederer Steven Alexander
Published: March 2022

The heart is the organ in charge of pumping blood to the rest of the body. But the heart can get sick, and we want to know how to best mend it. Sometimes, doctors can give medicines or do heart surgery to treat heart problems. But some medicines may not work for everyone, and surgeries can be very difficult. Now we have special computer games to better guide these decisions: cardiac simulations. Cardiac simulations are like having a twin of the heart in the computer. Doctors can try different medicines in the simulation without putting the patient at risk. They can also use the heart simulation to practice for surgery. They can train using the simulation until they are ready, and then do the surgery in the real world. With the help of computer simulations, we can find the best way to help sick hearts.
How Are Nerve Cells And Artificial Intelligence Similar?
Authors: Marom Shimon
Published: March 2022

In the field of artificial intelligence, which has a large influence on our lives today, the term “neural network” has been gaining popularity. It usually refers to a dense web of simple units, each of which may be in one of two states (on/off) and impacts of the state of other units connected to it. What exactly is the relationship between the way a nerve cell acts and the way artificial intelligence works? How is the action of an artificial neural network similar to a network of neurons in the human brain? This article tries to answer these questions. We will summarize how thinking happens, provide a short description of how a nerve cell works, describe the similarities between a nerve cell and a basic unit of a logical system, and finally show how connecting several such units is the basis for artificial intelligence.
Graphic Carbon Nitride-SilverPolyvinylpyrrolidone Nanocomposite Modified on a Glassy Carbon Electrode for Detection of Paracetamol
Authors: Mekgoe N. , Mabuba N. , Pillay K.
Published: March 2022

In this study a nanocomposite of graphitic carbon nitride-silver polyvinylpyrrolidone (gCN-AgPVP) was fabricated for the electrochemical detection of paracetamol (PAR). The nanocomposite of gCN-AgPVP showed superior electrocatalytic ability for PAR detection since it is selectively adsorbed by electrostatic interactions of the nanocomposite of gCN-AgPVP. This selective adsorption is also facilitated by charge assisted interactions between the PAR and gCN-AgPVP surfaces. The stability of the GCE/gCN-AgPVP was characterised using cyclic voltammetry (CV) at potentials ranging from −0.2 to +0.7 V and a scan rate of 50 mV/s. Square wave voltammetry (SQWV) was employed to characterise and detect PAR. The analysis was conducted on modified GCE/gCN-AgPVP in 0,1M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and pH 6.1. GCE/gCN-AgPVP showed excellent performance in detecting PAR in the concentration range of 0.2–100 µM with a correlation coefficient of 0.9951 respectively. The calculated detection limit (LOD) was 0.079 µM.
Characterizing the Relationship Between the COVID-19 Pandemic and U.S. Classical Musicians' Wellbeing
Authors: Wang Grace , Fram Noah R. , Carstensen Laura L. , Berger Jonathan
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated the economic and social wellbeing of communities worldwide. Certain groups have been disproportionately impacted by the strain of the pandemic, such as classical musicians. The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly harmed the classical music industry, silencing the world's concert halls and theaters. In an industry characterized by instability, a shock as great as COVID-19 may bring negative effects that far outlast the pandemic itself. This study investigates the wellbeing of classical musicians during the COVID-19 pandemic. 68 professional classical musicians completed a questionnaire composed of validated measures of future time horizons, emotional experience, social relationships, and life satisfaction. Findings show that feelings of loneliness had a significant negative association with other measures of wellbeing and were significantly mediated by increased social integration and perceived social support from colleagues, friends, and family. These findings help to characterize the present psychological, emotional, and social wellness of classical musicians in the United States, the first step toward mitigating the hazardous impacts of COVID-19 on this vulnerable group's mental health and wellness.
Everybody Can Dance—Except Aging Professional Dancers! A Discussion of the Construction of the Aging Dancing Body in Four Dance Texts
Authors: Rustad Hilde , Engelsrud Gunn Helene
Published: March 2022

The subject of the article is a critical investigation of research concerning age and dance. Our objective is to investigate whether and how researchers express their ideas about dance and age in a selection of research papers. We are particularly interested in whether researchers are reproducing an instrumental understanding of age in the context of dance and whether discourses of dance define bodies as older or younger in ways that differ from the definitions used in other social contexts. What kind of assumptions about the abilities of dancers form the baseline expectations of researchers? We wonder if harming the body is an implicit part of dance practice that operates as a tacit premise in the understanding of age and dance. Through a document analysis of several research texts on dance and age, we try to identify what kinds of meanings, expectations, and bodies such documents convey and produce. One of our findings from the analysis of the literature is that young dancers from western European countries and the U.S. are concerned with age throughout their entire career, while in dance practices in Japan, being an older dancer is regarded as a as a value that gives flavor and energy to both to aging and dance in a shared interaffective and mutual space.
Examination of Sex-Specific Participant Inclusion in Exercise Physiology Endothelial Function Research: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lew Lindsay A. , Williams Jennifer S. , Stone Jenna C. , Au Alicia K. W. , Pyke Kyra E. , MacDonald Maureen J.
Published: March 2022

Background

To combat historical underrepresentation of female participants in research, guidelines have been established to motivate equal participation by both sexes. However, the pervasiveness of female exclusion has not been examined in vascular exercise physiology research. The purpose of this study was to systematically quantify the sex-specific prevalence of human participants and identify the rationales for sex-specific inclusion/exclusion in research examining the impact of exercise on vascular endothelial function.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted examining exercise/physical activity and vascular endothelial function, assessed via flow mediated dilation. Studies were categorized by sex: male-only, female-only, or mixed sex, including examination of the sample size of males and females. Analysis was performed examining sex-inclusion criteria in study design and reporting and rationale for inclusion/exclusion of participants on the basis of sex. Changes in proportion of female participants included in studies were examined over time in 5 year cohorts.

Results

A total of 514 studies were identified, spanning 26 years (1996–2021). Of the total participants, 64% were male and 36% were female, and a male bias was identified (32% male-only vs. 12% female-only studies). Proportions of female participants in studies remained relatively constant in the last 20 years. Male-only studies were less likely to report sex in the title compared to female-only studies (27 vs. 78%, p < 0.001), report sex in the abstract (72 vs. 98%, p < 0.001) and justify exclusion on the basis of sex (15 vs. 55%, p < 0.001). Further, male-only studies were more likely to be conducted in healthy populations compared to female-only studies (p = 0.002). Qualitative analysis of justifications identified four themes: sex-specific rationale or gap in the literature, exclusion of females based on the hormonal cycle or sex-differences, maintaining congruence with the male norm, and challenges with recruitment, retention and resources.

Conclusions

This systematic review provides the first analysis of sex-based inclusion/exclusion and rationale for sex-based decisions in human vascular exercise physiology research. These findings contribute to identifying the impact of research guidelines regarding inclusion of males and females and the perceived barriers to designing studies with equal sex participation, in an effort to increase female representation in vascular exercise physiology research.

Systematic Review Registration:

CRD42022300388.
Understanding the Drivers of Production in South African Farming Systems: A Case Study of the Vhembe District, Limpopo South Africa
Authors: Materechera Fenji , Scholes Mary Cathrine
Published: March 2022

Farming systems in South Africa operate against the backdrop of constantly changing environmental, political, and socio-economic conditions. Farming systems are commonly defined by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) as a population of individual farm systems that have broadly similar resource bases, enterprise patterns, household livelihoods and constraints, and for which similar development strategies and interventions would be appropriate. Historically farming systems in South Africa have been characterised by dualism in which large-scale commercial farmers co-exist with small-scale farmers. Although the two farming systems are impacted by the same drivers of production (land, labour, capital, and enterprise), however, they respond to these drivers differently and the nature of the responses reveal their connectivity and possible approaches to sustaining them. A systems thinking approach is best suited to draw possible scenarios of how farming systems in the Vhembe district located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa will respond to changes with respect to the four drivers. In this area, large-scale commercial farming forms a significant component of the production of a number of subtropical crops that contribute to the country's agricultural economy particularly through exports. Simultaneously 90% of rural communities in the district depend mainly on small-scale agriculture to sustain their livelihoods and generate income. The paper provides an overview of the drivers of production for the two farming systems in the Vhembe district and explores how the government can successfully promote development through agriculture by building capacity for the joint success of the two farming systems.
Influence of Dehydration Temperature and Time on Physicochemical Properties of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Powder
Authors: Degwale Alemu , Asrat Fentahun , Eniyew Kefale , Asres Derajew , Tesfa Tiru , Ayalew Asrat
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this research was to determine the optimum dehydration temperature and time length for a better physicochemical quality of tomato powders. The treatments consisted of 70, 80 and 90°C dehydration temperatures and 9, 11, and 13 h time durations arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) with triplicates. The inlet and outlet air temperatures of the hot air oven dryer were about 24 and 60°C respectively with an air velocity of about 2.9 m/s. Fresh tomatoes were used as a control. It has been observed that the major quality parameters of tomato powders were significantly increased with increasing dehydration temperature and time up to 80°C and 11 h respectively. When the dehydration temperature and time length went beyond 80°C and 11 h respectively, the quality of tomato powders declined. The maximum TSS content (7.433 °Brix), titratable acidity (0.4967), rehydration ratio (3.437), lycopene content (0.4512 mg/100 g) and lower pH value (4.433) were obtained at 80°C temperature and 11 h dehydration time. Moisture content was reduced to 11% at the same dehydration temperature and time length without considerable physiochemical quality loss. Inversely, vitamin C was reduced as dehydration temperature and time increased. Generally, the results of this study showed that dehydration of tomatoes with 80°C and 11 h temperature and time length respectively, provides better physicochemical quality of tomato powders. Future research is suggested on consumers' acceptance of dehydrated tomato powders.
Efficacy and Tolerability of a New Formulation in Rectal Ointment Based on Zn-L-Carnosine (Proctilor®) in the Treatment of Haemorrhoidal Disease
Authors: Pietroletti Renato , Giuliani Antonio , Buonanno Alberto , Mattei Antonella , Fiasca Fabiana , Gallo Gaetano
Published: March 2022

Haemorrhoidal disease (HD) shows high prevalence in western countries, reaching 4.4% per year in the US. Topical preparations are the first-line treatments, which are readily available as “over-the-counter” (OTC) products, often containing a nonstandardised mixture of “natural” remedies, or anaesthetics or cortisol;those latter are not free from undesirable effects. The Zinc-L-Carnosine is a cytoprotective compound, promoting mucosal repair in the gastrointestinal tract and also in mucosal repair, following radiation injuries to the rectum as well as in ulcerative colitis. Our aim was to study the efficacy of Zinc-L-Carnosine in relieving acute symptoms of HD, testing a preparation in the rectal ointment, Proctilor®, in patients complaining of bleeding or thrombosed piles. In a multicentre open trial, 21 patients older than 18 years of age were enrolled. The symptoms of HD were graded according to the Haemorrhoidal Disease Symptoms Score (HDSS) in association with the Short Health Scale (SHS) to assess the influence of HD on quality of life. The pain was assessed with the VAS score, bowel habit by means of the Bristol scale. The patients were evaluated at enrolment (T0) and 2 (T1) and 4 (T2) weeks of treatment with Proctilor® rectal ointment. There were 10 men and 11 women; mean age, 49 years. Pain, bleeding, and thrombosis were all significantly reduced after treatment; the mean VAS score decreased from 4.71 ± 3.05 at T0 to.52 ± 0.87 and.05 ± 0.22 at T1 and T2, respectively; (mean ± SD; p < 0.001 in both cases). Similarly, the HDSS score showed to be significantly reduced between T0, T1 (8.05 ± 4.55 vs. 1.14 ± 1.01), and T2 (8.05 ± 4.55 vs. 24 ± 0.44) (mean ± SD; p < 0.001 in both cases). Quality of life showed to be improved as the SHS score decreased significantly with treatment (7.90 ± 4.17 at T0 vs. 4.24 ± 0.44 at T1 vs. 4.05 ± 0.22 at T2; mean ± SD; p < 0.001 in both cases). The Bristol score of defecation remained substantially unchanged. No side effects or discontinuation of treatment were reported. Results of our investigation suggest a role of Proctilor® rectal ointment in treating symptomatic HD with good results and an excellent safety profile. However, our preliminary results encourage further studies on a larger number of patients to confirm the role of Zinc-L-Carnosine in the rectal ointment for the topical treatment of HD.
Lymph Node Dissection During Radical Nephro-Ureterectomy for Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: A Review
Authors: Peyrottes Arthur , Califano Gianluigi , Ouzaïd Idir , Lainé-Caroff Paul , Long Depaquit Thibaut , Hermieu Jean-François , Xylinas Evanguelos
Published: March 2022

Although lymphonodal dissection is well-accepted for muscle-invasive bladder cancer management, its role is still debated during radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). The aim of this study was to summarize the current knowledge concerning the indication, anatomical template, prognostic, and therapeutic roles of lymph node dissection (LND) performed at the time of RNU. Quality control markers, such as the number of lymph nodes (LN) removed, lymph node density, and safety of the different surgical approaches, were assessed. We performed a narrative review using the PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases. We identified and analyzed articles based on the practice and the role of lymph node dissection for non-metastatic UTUC. There are no clear guidelines regarding the indication of LND for UTUC, but aggressive tumors may beneficiate from lymphadenectomy since lymph node invasion is a clear independent poor prognostic factor, allowing for adjuvant treatments. It seems that an extended lymphadenectomy may provide therapeutic advantages as a higher number of nodes removed may be related to the removal of undetected LNs micrometastases and a subsequent improvement in recurrence rate and cancer-specific survival. Clear anatomical templates are thus needed based on the location and the laterality of the primary tumor.
Effect of Psychological Support Therapy on Psychological State, Pain, and Quality of Life of Elderly Patients With Femoral Neck Fracture
Authors: Li Qun , Wang Yin , Shen Xiang
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To explore the intervention effect of psychological support therapy (PST) on elderly patients with femoral neck fracture.

Methods

A total of 82 elderly patients with femoral neck fractures admitted to our hospital from July 2020 to June 2021 were selected. Patients were randomly divided into conventional group (n = 41) and intervention group (n = 41). The conventional group received routine nursing care. The intervention group was given PST on the basis of the conventional group. The joint function, psychological state, pain, quality of life, and nursing satisfaction of both groups were observed.

Results

Compared with before intervention, the Harris hip joint score and the General Quality-of-Life Inventory-74 scores of both groups increased after the intervention, and the increase was more obvious in the intervention group (p < 0.05). Compared with before intervention, the self-rating anxiety scale, the self-rating depression scale scores, and the visual analog scales score in both groups decreased after the intervention, and the decrease was more obvious in the intervention group (p < 0.05). The total satisfaction of the intervention group (92.68%) was higher than that of the conventional group (75.61%) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Psychological support therapy has a certain intervention effect on elderly patients with femoral neck fracture, which can improve psychological state, reduce pain, improve quality of life, and improve nursing satisfaction.
Microplastics and Their Impact on Reproduction—Can we Learn From the C. elegans Model?
Authors: Jewett Elysia , Arnott Gareth , Connolly Lisa , Vasudevan Nandini , Kevei Eva
Published: March 2022

Biologically active environmental pollutants have significant impact on ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Microplastic (MP) and nanoplastic (NP) particles are pollutants that are present in the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems at virtually every level of the food chain. Moreover, recently, airborne microplastic particles have been shown to reach and potentially damage respiratory systems. Microplastics and nanoplastics have been shown to cause increased oxidative stress, inflammation, altered metabolism leading to cellular damage, which ultimately affects tissue and organismal homeostasis in numerous animal species and human cells. However, the full impact of these plastic particles on living organisms is not completely understood. The ability of MPs/NPs to carry contaminants, toxic chemicals, pesticides, and bioactive compounds, such as endocrine disrupting chemicals, present an additional risk to animal and human health. This review will discusses the current knowledge on pathways by which microplastic and nanoplastic particles impact reproduction and reproductive behaviors from the level of the whole organism down to plastics-induced cellular defects, while also identifying gaps in current knowledge regarding mechanisms of action. Furthermore, we suggest that the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans provides an advantageous high-throughput model system for determining the effect of plastic particles on animal reproduction, using reproductive behavioral end points and cellular readouts.
Effects of Catalase on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Intestinal Morphology, and Microbial Composition in Yellow Broilers
Authors: Tang Minghong , Fang Rejun , Xue Junjing , Yang Kaili , Lu Yi
Published: March 2022

The objective of this experiment was to study the effects of catalase (CAT) on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, intestinal morphology, and microbial composition of yellow broilers. Male Lingnan yellow broilers (360), aged 1 day, were randomly divided into control group (CON) (fed with a basic diet), R1 group (fed with basic diet + 150 U/kg catalase), and R2 group (fed with basic diet + 200 U/kg catalase). Each group had 8 replicates and 15 chickens in each replicate. The test is divided into the early stage (1–30 days) and the later stage (31–60 days). The results showed that compared with the control group, groups R1 and R2 significantly (p < 0.05) increased the weight gain and reduced (p < 0.05) the ratio of feed to gain in the early and the whole stages; prominently increased (p < 0.05) the concentration of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), the activities of CAT, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in livers, the activities of CAT and GSH-Px in serum, and CAT in the jejunum in the early and the later stages; markedly increased (p < 0.05) the villus height and the ratio of villus height to crypt depth of the duodenum in the early and the later stages, the villus height and the villus height:crypt depth ratio of the jejunum and ileum in the early stage, and significantly lowered (p < 0.05) the crypt depth of the duodenum (in the early and the later stages), jejunum, and ileum (in early stage); memorably (p < 0.05) increased the number of total bacteria and Bacteroidetes in ceca, as well as the number of Lactobacillus in the jejunum (p < 0.05) on the 30th; significantly (p < 0.05) increased the mRNA expression of junction adhesion molecule 2 (JAM2), mucin 2 (MCU2), and occlusal protein (occludin) in the duodenum in the early stage, and increased (p < 0.05) the mRNA expression of JAM2 in the jejunum in the later stage. Collectively, adding catalase (CAT) to the diet of yellow broilers can improve the growth performance and the antioxidant capacity, promoting the integrity of intestinal morphology, optimizing the composition of intestinal microorganisms, and upregulating the mRNA expression of tight junction protein.