bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Determinants of Wheezing and Bronchodilatation in Children With Cystic Fibrosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Galodé Francois , Ladipo O. , Andrieux A. , Feghali H. , Bui S. , Fayon Michael
Published: May 2022

Background

Many patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) wheeze, and are dubbed as having CF-asthma. Understanding the determinants of such wheezing may avoid unnecessary treatments and open newer treatment avenues.

Objectives

Main: To evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of wheezing and a positive bronchodilatory response (BDR) in children with CF. Secondary: To identify the predictive markers and the impact of current wheezing a positive BDR.

Methods

A retrospective single-center study in children with CF. We determined the characteristics of physician-reported wheeze in patients <6 years, and a BDR in patients aged 6–17 years. Anthropometric, lung function, laboratory, genetic and microbiological data were recorded in all groups. Variables were compared using the Chi2and Studentt-tests, and ANOVA.

Results

125 preschool and 69 school-aged children and adolescents with CF were included in the study. 71.2% of patients <6 years of age had had at least one episode of wheezing: 26.3% of patients were Transient Early Wheezers, 12.6% Late Onset Wheezers and 37.9% were Persistent Wheezers. The prevalence of a positive BDR was 73.5, 48.5, and 52.9% in the 6–8 years, 10–12 years, and 15–17 years age groups, respectively. Allergic factors were not predictive of wheezing in preschoolers. In the 6–8 years age group, the sum of wheal diameters of allergic skin prick tests (SPT, house dust mite + cat + dog dander) was greater in those with a BDR vs. no BDR (4 [2.0–8.8] vs. 1 [0–7.0] mm,p= 0.01). The presence ofPseudomonas aeruginosain the bronchial secretions before 3 years of age was not significantly associated with either the presence of wheezing at the age of 6 years or a BDR in school-aged children and adolescents. The proportion of homozygous p.F508del patients was significantly lower in the group of patients who had wheezed by 6 years of age (60% vs. 72.7%,p= 0.009), but higher in the 6–8 years old group with a BDR vs. no BDR (64% vs. 36%,p= 0.04). Current wheezers at 6 years had a lower mean FEV1vs. the non-current wheezers (91.5 ± 4.4% vs. 100.9 ± 2.4%;p= 0.047). Similarly, forced vital capacity (FVC) was significantly lower in the 6–8 years old group with BDR vs. no BDR (85 ± 19 vs. 101 ± 21%,p= 0.015).

Conclusion

Wheezing and BDR are very frequent findings in children with CF. Current wheeze at the age of 6 years was associated with worse lung function. Labeling wheezing in CF as “CF-Asthma” is misleading since the determinants are different, and may lead to inappropriate prescriptions of inhaled steroids.
Vascular Anatomy in Congenital Lung Lesions—Description and Classification
Authors: Kargl Simon , Schlader Florian , Scala Mario , Kammel Julian
Published: May 2022

Background

Bronchopulmonary sequestration (BPS) and hybrid lesion of congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) are congenital lung lesions typically presenting with systemic vascular connection. We describe and categorize this atypical systemic vascular anatomy in congenital lung lesions.

Methods

In a medical chart review from 2005 to 2020 patients with systemic vascular connection of congenital lung lesions were identified. Clinical and radiological data were collected and compared. Two experienced pediatric radiologists reviewed postnatal thoracic contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans to describe and categorize atypical vascular anatomy. We completed our findings with a review on vascular anatomy in congenital lung lesions.

Results

A total of 21 patients with congenital lung lesions (nine extralobar BPS, five intralobar BPS, seven hybrid lesions) had systemic arterial supply; with seven of these additionally having systemic venous drainage. Origin of the feeding arteries from the aorta or aortic main branches was described as supra-diaphragmatic (descending thoracic aorta) in nine and infra-diaphragmatic in ten patients (abdominal aorta, celiac trunk). In two patients with hybrid lesions both supra- and infra-diaphragmatic arterial feeders were found. Additional systemic venous connection of supra-diaphragmatic type drains into the azygos-hemiazygos system (4/21) while the infra-diaphragmatic type (3/21) drains into caval vein, portal or splenic vein.

Conclusion

Various variants of systemic arterial and venous connection of congenital lung lesions can be found. Classification of systemic arterial connection as well as venous drainage of congenital lung lesions as supra-diaphragmatic and infra-diaphragmatic types is intuitive, simple and may be important for the surgeon to avoid unanticipated situations and to perform safe resections.
In Silico Screening and Validation of PDGFRA Inhibitors Enhancing Radioiodine Sensitivity in Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Yu Xuefei , Zhu Xuhang , Zhang Lizhuo , Qin Jiang-Jiang , Feng Chunlai , Li Qinglin
Published: May 2022

Aberrant activation of platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRA) has been implicated in tumorigenesis and radioiodine resistance of thyroid cancer, indicating its therapeutic potential. In the present study, we confirmed the association between PDGFRA and radioiodine resistance in thyroid cancer using bioinformatics analysis and constructed a prediction model of PDGFRA inhibitors using machine learning and molecular docking approaches. We then performed a virtual screening of a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) derived compound library and successfully identified 4’,5,7-trimethoxyflavone as a potential PDGFRA inhibitor. Further characterization revealed a significant inhibitory effect of 4’,5,7-trimethoxyflavone on PDGFRA-MAPK pathway activation, and that it could upregulate expression of sodium iodide symporter (NIS) as well as improve radioiodine uptake capacity of radioiodine-refractory thyroid cancer (RAIR-TC), suggesting it a potential drug lead for the development of new RAIR-TC therapy.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Related Myositis Overlapping With Myocarditis: An Institutional Case Series and a Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Nakagomi Yuki , Tajiri Kazuko , Shimada Saori , Li Siqi , Inoue Keiko , Murakata Yoshiko , Murata Momoko , Sakai Shunsuke , Sato Kimi , Ieda Masaki
Published: May 2022

Background: Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-related myositis with myocarditis is a rare but potentially fatal immune-related adverse event. However, its clinical features, response to immunosuppressive treatment, and prognosis remain poorly understood. Here, we describe the clinical course of patients with ICI-related myositis overlapping with myocarditis treated at our institution and a systematic review focusing on the response to immunosuppressive therapy.

Methods: We identified patients who developed ICI-induced myositis with myocarditis and were treated at our hospital using a retrospective chart review of electronic medical records. For the systematic review, studies reporting ICI-induced myositis with myocarditis were identified using the Cochrane Library and PubMed databases.

Results: Of the 625 patients treated with ICIs, four developed myositis with concurrent myocarditis. All the patients received immunosuppressive therapy. We assessed the activity of myocarditis and myositis based on temporal changes in troponin and creatine kinase (CK) levels. In all patients, peak troponin values appeared later than the peak CK values (median, 17 days). The median time from the start of ICI therapy to the peak of troponin and CK levels was 42.5 and 28 days, respectively. In all patients, CK levels decreased rapidly and steadily after the initiation of immunosuppressants. However, troponin levels were unstable and increased. In all patients, CK levels normalized within one month (range, 12–27 days), but troponin levels took several months to normalize (range, 84–161 days). Fourteen cases of ICI-related myositis with myocarditis were included in the systematic review. Of the 14 cases, 12 (86%) had their CK level decreased after the initial steroid treatment, but the troponin level increased and was higher than that before the start of treatment. In addition, the peak troponin values appeared later than the peak CK values (a median of 6.5 days). Eight (89%) of 9 long-term follow-up patients had troponin levels above the normal range even after CK normalization.

Conclusion: In most cases of ICI-related myositis with myocarditis, troponin levels increased after the initial steroid treatment despite decreased CK levels, and exceeded pre-steroid levels. In addition, troponin remained elevated for several months after CK normalized.
Hydrogen Repairs LPS-Induced Endothelial Progenitor Cells Injury via PI3K/AKT/eNOS Pathway
Authors: Mu Qingjie , Lv Kaixuan , Yu Jielun , Chu Shangmin , Zhang Lichun , Kong Lingyu , Zhang Linlin , Tian Yan , Jia Xiaopeng , Liu Benhong , Wei Youzhen , Yang Nana
Published: May 2022

Endotoxins and other harmful substances may cause an increase in permeability in endothelial cells (ECs) monolayers, as well as ECs shrinkage and death to induce lung damage. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can impair endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) functions, including proliferation, migration, and tube formation. EPCs can migrate to the damaged area, differentiate into ECs, and participate in vascular repair, which improves pulmonary capillary endothelial dysfunction and maintains the integrity of the endothelial barrier. Hydrogen (H2) contributes to the repairment of lung injury and the damage of ECs. We therefore speculate that H2 protects the EPCs against LPS-induced damage, and it’s mechanism will be explored. The bone marrow-derived EPCs from ICR Mice were treated with LPS to establish a damaged model. Then EPCs were incubated with H2, and treated with PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) inhibitor L-NAME. MTT assay, transwell assay and tube formation assay were used to detect the proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of EPCs. The expression levels of target proteins were detected by Western blot. Results found that H2 repaired EPCs proliferation, migration and tube formation functions damaged by LPS. LY294002 and L-NAME significantly inhibited the repaired effect of H2 on LPS-induced dysfunctions of EPCs. H2 also restored levels of phosphor-AKT (p-AKT), eNOS and phosphor-eNOS (p-eNOS) suppressed by LPS. LY294002 significantly inhibited the increase of p-AKT and eNOS and p-eNOS expression exposed by H2. L-NAME significantly inhibited the increase of eNOS and p-eNOS expression induced by H2. H2 repairs the dysfunctions of EPCs induced by LPS, which is mediated by PI3K/AKT/eNOS signaling pathway.
A Thin-Film Thermal Meta-Device With Dual Function of Thermal Shield and Generation Based on an Artificially Tilted Structure
Authors: Zhang Qingqing , Yuan Junyu , Zhu Wei , Deng Yuan
Published: May 2022

A thin-film thermal meta-device with a dual-function of thermal shield and generation is proposed and fabricated in this work. The tilted layered structure composed of thermoelectric materials with low thermal conductivity and metal materials with high thermal conductivity is designed to realize the orientation of the incident heat flux and the utilization of heat energy based on the Seebeck effect of the materials. The constructed transverse thin-film thermoelectric device with a Bi2Te3/Cu-layered structure can achieve a maximum output voltage of 20.4 mV and a maximum output power of 7.39 μW at a temperature difference of 80 K. On this basis, the dual-functional film meta-device based on transformation thermodynamics is capable of realizing a heat flux shielding in the central area and generating a transverse output voltage. The experimental results also indicate that there exists a well linear relationship between the output voltage of the meta-device and the temperature difference, which can be extended to accurately monitor the temperature of the central area. This work provides a certain reference for the development of a new class of thermoelectric devices with thermal protection and temperature detection capability.
Transit Peptides Often Require Downstream Unstructured Sequence for Efficient Chloroplast Import in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Caspari Oliver D.
Published: May 2022

The N-terminal sequence stretch that defines subcellular targeting for most nuclear encoded chloroplast proteins is usually considered identical to the sequence that is cleaved upon import. Yet here this study shows that for eight out of ten tested Chlamydomonas chloroplast transit peptides, significant additional sequence stretches past the cleavage site are required to enable efficient chloroplast import of heterologous cargo proteins. Analysis of Chlamydomonas cTPs with known cleavage sites and replacements of native post-cleavage residues with alternative sequences points to a role for unstructured sequence at mature protein N-termini.
Identification of Key Gene Networks Controlling Soluble Sugar and Organic Acid Metabolism During Oriental Melon Fruit Development by Integrated Analysis of Metabolic and Transcriptomic Analyses
Authors: Cheng Hong , Kong Weiping , Tang Taoxia , Ren Kaili , Zhang Kaili , Wei Huxia , Lin Tao
Published: May 2022

Oriental melon (Cucumis melo var. acidulus) is one of the most economically important fruit crops worldwide. To elucidate the molecular basis related to soluble sugar and organic acid metabolism in the fruits of two oriental melon cultivars with different sweetness, we performed integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses of the fruits of ‘Tianbao’ (A) with high sweetness and ‘Xiaocuigua’ (B) with low sweetness at different ripening stages. The high accumulation of sucrose, D-glucose, D-(+)-raffinose, and the relatively lower citric acid and malic acid might contribute to the sweet taste of A. By screening the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and correlation analysis of the DEGs and differentially accumulated metabolites, we deduced that the B cultivar might promote the conversion of glucose and fructose into intermediate compounds for downstream processes such as glycolysis. The tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle might also be enhanced compared to A, thus resulting in the differential accumulation of soluble sugars and organic acids, ultimately causing the taste difference between the two oriental melon cultivars. Our finding provides important information for further exploring the metabolic mechanisms of soluble sugars and organic acids in oriental melon.
Photoperiod Stress in Arabidopsis thaliana Induces a Transcriptional Response Resembling That of Pathogen Infection
Authors: Cortleven Anne , Roeber Venja M. , Frank Manuel , Bertels Jonas , Lortzing Vivien , Beemster Gerrit T. S. , Schmülling Thomas
Published: May 2022

Plants are exposed to regular diurnal rhythms of light and dark. Changes in the photoperiod by the prolongation of the light period cause photoperiod stress in short day-adapted Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we report on the transcriptional response to photoperiod stress of wild-type A. thaliana and photoperiod stress-sensitive cytokinin signaling and clock mutants and identify a core set of photoperiod stress-responsive genes. Photoperiod stress caused altered expression of numerous reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related genes. Photoperiod stress-sensitive mutants displayed similar, but stronger transcriptomic changes than wild-type plants. The alterations showed a strong overlap with those occurring in response to ozone stress, pathogen attack and flagellin peptide (flg22)-induced PAMP triggered immunity (PTI), which have in common the induction of an apoplastic oxidative burst. Interestingly, photoperiod stress triggers transcriptional changes in jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis and signaling and results in increased JA, SA and camalexin levels. These responses are typically observed after pathogen infections. Consequently, photoperiod stress increased the resistance of Arabidopsis plants to a subsequent infection by Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000. In summary, we show that photoperiod stress causes transcriptional reprogramming resembling plant pathogen defense responses and induces systemic acquired resistance (SAR) in the absence of a pathogen.
Enhanced Salt Tolerance of Torreya grandis Genders Is Related to Nitric Oxide Level and Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Liu Yang , Jiang Zhuoke , Ye Yuting , Wang Donghui , Jin Songheng
Published: May 2022

Nitric oxide (NO), a bioactive molecule, is often involved in the regulation of physiological and biochemical processes in stressed plants. However, the effects of NO donors on dioecious plants remain unclear. Using a pot experiment, female and male Torreya grandis were used to study the role of sex and NO in salt stress tolerance. In the present study, female and male T. grandis seedlings pretreated with an NO donor (sodium nitroprusside, SNP) were exposed to salt stress, and then leaf relative water content (RWC), photosynthetic pigments, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, NO and glutathione levels, oxidative damage, and antioxidant enzyme activities were investigated. Female T. grandis plants had better tolerance to salinity, as they were characterized by significantly higher RWC, pigment content, and photochemical activities of photosystem II (PSII) and fewer negative effects associated with higher nitrate reductase (NR) activity and NO content. Pretreatment with an NO donor further increased the endogenous NO content and NR activity of both female and male T. grandis plants compared with salt treatment. Moreover, pretreatment with an NO donor alleviated salt-induced oxidative damage of T. grandis, especially in male plants, as indicated by reduced lipid peroxidation, through an enhanced antioxidant system, including proline and glutathione accumulation, and increased antioxidant enzyme activities. However, the ameliorating effect of the NO donor was not effective in the presence of the NO scavenger (Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, L-name). In conclusion, enhanced salt tolerance in T. grandis plants is related to nitric oxide levels and the supply of NO donors is an interesting strategy for alleviating the negative effect of salt on T. grandis. Our data provide new evidence to contribute to the current understanding of NO-induced salt stress tolerance.
The Influence of Family Supportive Supervisor Behavior on Employee Creativity: The Mediating Roles of Psychological Capital and Positive Emotion
Authors: Zhou Xiaogang , Jin Liujun , Wang Yimeng , Liao Wenqin , Yang Honglei , Li Liqing
Published: May 2022

In an increasingly complex external environment, innovation is an important way for companies to build sustainable competitiveness. This research discusses employee creativity from the perspective of Family Supportive Supervisor Behavior (FSSB) based on conservation of resource theory, social exchange theory, psychological capital theory and emotional spillover theory. Through a series of surveys of employees in different companies and jobs, we can understand the impact of family-supporting supervisors’ behavior on their creativity. Combined with the survey data, a structural equation model (SEM) is constructed to analyze the mediating effects of psychological capital and positive emotions based on the causal mediation model. The research found that the positive influence of family-supporting supervisors’ behavior on employees’ creativity has three forms. First, supervisors improve employees’ motivation and sense of efficacy by providing various support resources. Second, supervisors can generate positive spillover effects among employees by influencing employees’ psychological state. Third, supervisors stimulate the creativity of subordinates by promoting work participation and mobility. According to the research conclusions, in order to improve the employee creativity, we should provide incentives to encourage supervisors to carry out family support behaviors, identify employee characteristics to help supervisors provide personalized support, cultivate family supportive leaders, and attach importance to emotional support and play the role of psychological capital and positive emotions.
Meaningful Relationships in Community and Clinical Samples: Their Importance for Mental Health
Authors: Block Victoria J. , Haller Elisa , Villanueva Jeanette , Meyer Andrea , Benoy Charles , Walter Marc , Lang Undine E. , Gloster Andrew T.
Published: May 2022

Meaningful relationships are centrally important for human functioning. It remains unclear, however, which aspects of meaningful relationships impact wellbeing the most and whether these differ between psychiatric patients and members of the community. Information about relationship attributes and functions were collected in community members (N = 297) and psychiatric patients (N = 177). Relationship attributes and functions were examined for differences between groups (community vs. patients), their impact on wellbeing and symptoms, and the size of network (one vs. many relationships). Community members reported fewer relationships, higher frequency of contact and less desire for change when compared to the psychiatric patients. Nevertheless, both groups reported relatively high levels of fulfilled functions. Quality of the relationship and investment into the relationship was associated with both wellbeing and symptoms for both the community and the patient group. Almost all functions were associated with wellbeing and symptoms for the community group. However, for the patient group, only few functions (sexual partner, go-to person for compassion, go-to person when happy) were associated with wellbeing and no functions were associated with symptoms. Contrary to our hypotheses, the results show that psychiatric patients do not have a deficit in fulfilling relationships. Most people report a well-functioning network of meaningful, high-quality relationships. Patients benefit from meaningful, function-fulfilling relationships just as much as community members. Results are discussed with respect to how targeting relationships can be used clinically.
Logical Intelligence and Mathematical Competence Are Determined by Physical Fitness in a Sample of School Children
Authors: Bracero-Malagón José , Juárez-Ruiz de Mier Rocío , Reigal Rafael E. , Caballero-Cerbán Montserrat , Hernández-Mendo Antonio , Morales-Sánchez Verónica
Published: May 2022

Previous research has shown positive relationships between fitness level and different cognitive abilities and academic performance. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between logical–mathematical intelligence and mathematical competence with physical fitness in a group of pre-adolescents. Sixty-three children (50.79% girls; 49.21% boys) from Castro del Río (Córdoba, Spain), aged between 11 and 12 years (M = 11.44, SD = 0.64), participated in this research. The Superior Logical Intelligence Test (SLIT) and the EVAMAT 1.0–5 battery were used. Physical fitness was evaluated by the horizontal jump test, the 4×10 meter speed–agility test, and the Course Navette test. The analyses showed positive relationships between physical fitness with logical–mathematical intelligence and mathematical competence. Specifically, linear regression analyzes indicated that the 4×10 speed–agility test significantly predicted mathematical competence (R2 = 0.16; β = −0.41) and the horizontal jump test significantly predicted logical–mathematical intelligence (R2 = 0.24; β = 0.50). These results are in agreement with previous research, highlighting the importance of improving physical fitness from an early age due to its benefits for intellectual and academic development.
Prevalence of Risk for Orthorexia in Athletes Using the ORTO-15 Questionnaire: A Systematic Mini-Review
Authors: Paludo Ana Carolina , Magatão Marina , Martins Hilana Rickli Fiuza , Martins Marcos Vinícius Soares , Kumstát Michal
Published: May 2022

The article aims to summarize the literature about the profile of risk of orthorexia in athletes using the ORTO-15 questionnaire. The search was performed at PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Sport Discus databases, using the terms “orthorexia” AND “athletes” with the respective entry terms. A multistage process of selection followed the PRISMA 2020 recommendation. A total of 688 articles were identified, and six studies were available for the final process. The prevalence of risk for orthorexia was assessed by the articles by the ORTO-15 questionnaire and ranged between 38 and 35 points. The comparison between male and female athletes and, athletes and non-athletes was not significant in the six articles. In conclusion, the review highlights that athletes from different sports, included in the review, do not present a risk of orthorexia nervosa considering the cutoff of 40 points, but not 35 points. Also, athletes present the same orthorexic behavior compared to non-athletes, demonstrating that orthorexia is an issue that needs to be considered in the general population. Moreover, a special focus should be given on the ORTO-15 questionnaire, about the sensitivity to diagnose the prevalence of orthorexia, especially in athletes.
Profiles of Work Engagement and Work-Related Effort and Reward Among Teachers: Associations to Occupational Well-Being and Leader–Follower Relationship During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Pöysä Sanni , Pakarinen Eija , Lerkkanen Marja-Kristiina
Published: May 2022

This study examined teachers’ occupational well-being by identifying profiles based on teachers’ self-ratings of work engagement as well as work-related effort and reward. It also did so by examining whether the identified subgroups differed with respect to teachers’ self-reported occupational stress and emotional exhaustion as well as with respect to work-related resources such as the individual resource of work meaningfulness and the leader-level resource of the leader–follower relationship. The participants in the study were 321 Finnish elementary school teachers. The data were collected in spring 2021, that is, at the time when the COVID-19 pandemic was present, yet there were no national school closures. Three groups of teachers were identified with latent profile analysis: (1) teachers recognized as being poorly engaged with the highest effort and lowest reward (4.7%); (2) teachers recognized as being averagely engaged with higher effort than reward (32.1%); and (3) teachers recognized as being highly engaged with higher reward than effort (63.2%). The subsequent analyses examining the differences among the profile groups revealed, for example, that each profile group differed with respect to the individual resource of work meaningfulness and profile groups 2 and 3 differed with respect to the leader-level resource of the leader–follower relationship. Thus, the findings indicate that there are differences in the ways in which teachers are able to benefit from the work-related resources and how they cope with job-related demands during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Systematic Review of Multilevel Influenced Risk-Taking in Helicopter and Small Airplane Normal Operations
Authors: Harris Matt R. , Fein Erich C. , Machin M. Anthony
Published: May 2022

The violation of aviation rules, particularly meteorological flight rules, can have fatal outcomes. Violation can sometimes be explained by intentional risk-taking, alternatively it can be the manifestation of a strategy to enhance performance and influence outcomes, such as saving time or fulfilling customer expectations. The aim of this study was to determine the types of risk-taking behavior within extant empirical research and identify multilevel antecedents related to risk-taking in the context of aviation operations, via a systematic literature review. 4,742 records were identified, which after screening resulted in the detailed consideration of 10 studies, three qualitative and seven quantitative studies, which met the eligibility criteria. Only published works were included in the review, thus the results may have been subject to publication bias, however, the types of risk taking within the research were consistent with that observed in Australian and New Zealand accident reports. The predominate risk-taking behavior was that of continuing Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flight into deteriorating conditions / Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC). Multilevel influences could be categorized under two overarching themes, being “continuation influence” and “acceptance of risk / normalization of deviance.” One or both themes was consistently observed across the finding in all studies, although precaution should be given to the relative frequency of the reported associations. This review indicates the value of considering the social and organizational influences on risk-taking, and suggests avenues for future research, in particular exploring the influences through a Self-Determination Theory (SDT) lens.
Social Capital and Lifestyle Impacts on Mental Health in University Students in Colombia: An Observational Study
Authors: Sotaquirá Lina , Backhaus Insa , Sotaquirá Paula , Pinilla-Roncancio Mónica , González-Uribe Catalina , Bernal Raquel , Galeano Juan José , Mejia Natalia , La Torre Giuseppe , Trujillo-Maza Elena M. , Suárez Daniel E. , Duperly John , Ramirez Varela Andrea
Published: May 2022

Introduction

For young adults, the first year of higher education represents a transition period into adulthood associated with an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and stress, contributing to deteriorating physical and mental health. The present study aimed to analyze the relationship between depressive symptoms and social capital and lifestyles among Colombian university students.

Methods

In 2020, a longitudinal repeated measures study was conducted on first year students at Universidad de los Andes in Bogota, Colombia. The study was conceptualized and approved by the university before the COVID-19 pandemic appeared. Each student completed a self-administered questionnaire including questions on sociodemographic characteristics, depressive symptoms, perceived stress, social capital, and lifestyles. The study's pilot was conducted in November 2019, and the two measurement points were in January 2020 (wave 1, before the COVID-19 pandemic was declared) and in August 2020 (wave 2, during the COVID-19 pandemic). A binary logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between depressive symptoms, perceived stress, social capital, and lifestyles.

Findings

A total of 609 first year students (response rate = 58.11%) participated in wave 1, and 42% of the participants showed signs of clinically relevant depressive symptoms. In wave 2, despite the difficulties encountered in collecting data due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 216 students from wave 1 participated (35.47%). An increase in a sedentary lifestyle was observed (31.49%). We found that cognitive and behavioral social capital levels decreased by 12.03 and 24.54%, respectively. In addition, we observed a 6.5% increase in students with clinically relevant depressive symptoms compared to wave 1. A low level of behavioral [OR: 1.88; 95% CI (1.16, 3.04)] social capital was associated with clinically relevant depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

The health of university students continues to be a public health concern. The study suggests that social capital may play an important role in preventing depressive symptoms. Therefore, universities should put effort into programs that bring students together and promote the creation of social capital.
Quality of the Healthcare Services During COVID-19 Pandemic in Selected European Countries
Authors: Tuczyńska Magdalena , Staszewski Rafał , Matthews-Kozanecka Maja , Żok Agnieszka , Baum Ewa
Published: May 2022

Background

There are several definitions of the quality of healthcare services. It may be defined as a level of value provided by any health care resource, as determined by some measurement. Scientists use a variety of quality measures to attempt to determine health care quality. They use special indicators or based on a patients' or healthcare professional's perception. This article aims to provide a short review of the available data on the quality of healthcare services in selected European countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methodology

The research was done by the use of online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. All the studies focused on the quality of healthcare services, yet the studies used different methods to measure this quality. In addition, the results of the authors' survey on the assessment of the quality of healthcare services before and during the COVID-19 pandemic were presented.

Results

Among twelve studies, four were from the United Kingdom and one each of Catalonia, Italy, Sweden, Poland, Netherlands, France, Germany, Belgium. Patients in the United Kingdom felt that the quality of services was good during the pandemic, whereas the quality declined in the other studies cited. The results of our research also revealed a decrease in the quality of healthcare services provided.

Conclusions

Nevertheless the development of telemedicine has had a positive impact on the quality of healthcare services. The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly affected most European countries' quality of healthcare services.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Work Activity of Spanish Physical Therapists and Their Response to Vaccination
Authors: Montero-Navarro Sergio , Sánchez-Más Jesús , Salar-Andreu Cristina , Molina-Payá Francisco Javier , Orts-Ruiz Cristina , Botella-Rico José Martin , Tuells José , Rodríguez-Blanco Noelia
Published: May 2022

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, physical therapists have had to adopt a set of specific protection measures, which have had an impact on their clinical activity and economy. The objective was to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work of Spanish physical therapists, as well as their attitudes and predisposition to vaccination. An online questionnaire was divided into five sections: (1) demographic and professional data; (2) labor impact; (3) precautions and infection-control measures; (4) economic impact; and (5) vaccine acceptance and adverse effects. Of the 666 participants, 62.1% showed a reduction in their working hours motivated by: fear of infection (p = 0.007), financial issues (p = 0.002) and being in quarantine or isolation (p < 0.001). Of these, 36.4% were forced to close the clinic, 62.7% requested help from the government, but only 12.04% mentioned that it was adequate. The main prevention measures adopted were the use of gels and masks and, in the private sector, disinfection with ozone or ultraviolet light (p < 0.05). The acceptance of the vaccine was high, 87.5%, being lower among the group over 40 years of age, self-employed, widowed or separated. More adverse effects were mentioned after receiving the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine, compared to Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna. In conclusion, this study assessed for the first time that the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain had a negative impact on work and finances of physical therapists. The vaccine was widely accepted, in part by the economic impact that an infection in the work setting could signify.
Domain Generalization for Language-Independent Automatic Speech Recognition
Authors: Gao Heting , Ni Junrui , Zhang Yang , Qian Kaizhi , Chang Shiyu , Hasegawa-Johnson Mark
Published: May 2022

A language-independent automatic speech recognizer (ASR) is one that can be used for phonetic transcription in languages other than the languages in which it was trained. Language-independent ASR is difficult to train, because different languages implement phones differently: even when phonemes in two different languages are written using the same symbols in the international phonetic alphabet, they are differentiated by different distributions of language-dependent redundant articulatory features. This article demonstrates that the goal of language-independence may be approximated in different ways, depending on the size of the training set, the presence vs. absence of familial relationships between the training and test languages, and the method used to implement phone recognition or classification. When the training set contains many languages, and when every language in the test set is related (shares the same language family with) a language in the training set, then language-independent ASR may be trained using an empirical risk minimization strategy (e.g., using connectionist temporal classification without extra regularizers). When the training set is limited to a small number of languages from one language family, however, and the test languages are not from the same language family, then the best performance is achieved by using domain-invariant representation learning strategies. Two different representation learning strategies are tested in this article: invariant risk minimization, and regret minimization. We find that invariant risk minimization is better at the task of phone token classification (given known segment boundary times), while regret minimization is better at the task of phone token recognition.
Perspective: National Football League Teams Need Chief Diversity Officers
Authors: DeMartini Anne L. , Butler Barbara Nalani
Published: May 2022

The National Football League (NFL) and its teams, some of the world's most profitable sporting properties, face challenges with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). With a history of discriminatory work environments, including a recent high-profile lawsuit, the NFL and its teams have a poor reputation on these issues. This perspective piece investigated NFL teams' utilization of organization employees dedicated to DEI. Utilizing a content analysis of publicly available data, this piece investigated DEI employees at NFL team organizations. The study analyzed the position's characteristics including the name of the role, the department in which it was housed, and the reporting structure. The study also examined the demographics and professional background of the employees in the roles. The findings conclude that NFL teams lag behind other American businesses in their adoption of Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) roles. As of 2022, only 31.25% of NFL teams had a dedicated DEI staff person. Three additional teams host diversity councils utilizing employees with other job responsibilities. The employees filling the CDO roles were majority women and majority Black. Though not the only answer to a complex problem, in order to address these challenges and move forward, the NFL teams should create Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) roles. These positions should have appropriate reporting relationships, well-crafted position responsibilities, generous resources, and qualified and experienced employees.
Outcomes of Lateral Tarsal Strip in Conjunction with a Minimal Skin Muscle Excision Underlying Cauterization in Korean Patients with Involutional Entropion
Authors: Lee Hyunkyu , Cha Eunhyang , Baek Sehyun
Published: May 2022

We reviewed the medical records of 53 involutional entropion patients, who underwent lateral tarsal strip (LTS) with a minimal skin muscle excision by cauterization from March 2014 to December 2017, to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of LTS in conjunction with a minimal skin muscle excision using cautery in patients with involutional entropion. We evaluated the success rate, complications, recurrence rate, and degree of satisfaction of our technique. Of 53 patients, there were 5 bilateral cases for a total of 58 eyelids. The average of age was 71.2 years old (57–90 years). The average follow-up period was 18 months (12–39 months). The success rate for involutional entropion correction was 98.1% with our technique. There was one mild recurrence case at 7 months. In our study, the average operation time was 20.8 min (15–29 min) for 48 unilateral cases and 27.2 min (20–32 min) for 5 bilateral cases without intraoperative complications. Of 42 responders of patients’ satisfaction questionnaire, 38 patients showed good satisfaction and were willing to recommend the surgery to their acquaintances. The technique of LTS with minimal skin excision with cauterization was effective and provided satisfying outcomes to patients with involutional entropion.
The Role of Surgical Expertise and Surgical Access in Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Resection – A Retrospective Study
Authors: Aeschbacher P. , Kollár A. , Candinas D. , Beldi G. , Lachenmayer A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Retroperitoneal sarcoma (RPS) is a rare disease often requiring multi-visceral and wide margin resections for which a resection in a sarcoma center is advised. Midline incision seems to be the access of choice. However, up to now there is no evidence for the best surgical access. This study aimed to analyze the oncological outcome according to the surgical expertise and also the incision used for the resection.

Methods

All patients treated for RPS between 2007 and 2018 at the Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine of the University Hospital Bern and receiving a RPS resection in curative intent were included. Patient- and treatment specific factors as well as local recurrence-free, disease-free and overall survival were analyzed in correlation to the hospital type where the resection occurred.

Results

Thirty-five patients were treated for RPS at our center. The majority received their primary RPS resection at a sarcoma center (SC = 23) the rest of the resection were performed in a non-sarcoma center (non-SC = 12). Median tumor size was 24 cm. Resections were performed via a midline laparotomy (ML = 31) or flank incision (FI = 4). All patients with a primary FI (n = 4) were operated in a non-SC (p = 0.003). No patient operated at a non-SC received a multivisceral resection (p = 0.004). Incomplete resection (R2) was observed more often when resection was done in a non-SC (p = 0.013). Resection at a non-SC was significantly associated with worse recurrence-free survival and disease-free survival after R0/1 resection (2 vs 17 months; Log Rank p-value = 0.02 respectively 2 vs 15 months; Log Rank p-value < 0.001).

Conclusions

Resection at a non-SC is associated with more incomplete resection and worse outcome in RPS surgery. Inadequate access, such as FI, may prevent complete resection and multivisceral resection if indicated and demonstrates the importance of surgical expertise in the outcome of RPS resection.
Laparoscopic Lateral Suspension (LLS) for the Treatment of Apical Prolapse: A New Gold Standard?
Authors: Dällenbach Patrick
Published: May 2022

Nowadays, the gold standard to treat apical pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSCP). However, LSCP is a difficult procedure associated with rare but potentially severe complications. Promontory dissection may expose to potential life-threatening intraoperative vascular injuries, and sacral roots or hypogastric nerve damage. There are also a few case reports of spondylodiscitis with consecutive lumbar vertebra bone erosion. Laparoscopic lateral suspension (LLS) with mesh is an alternative technique for apical POP repair. It lowers perioperative risks by avoiding sacral promontory preparation. Recent studies show similar anatomical and functional outcomes to LSCP, with the advantage of better preserving the vaginal axis. Moreover, LLS is well suited for hysteropexy which is important as an increasing number of women prefer uterine preservation during POP surgery. In this article, we discuss both techniques, and we share our opinion on a novel perspective in the treatment of apical POP with uterine preservation.
Genetic Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Fasciola Species Isolated From Yaks on Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Gao Xing , Wang Dongjing , Zhang Zhao , Quan Chuxian , Zhou Shimeng , Li Kewei , Li Yan , Zhao Suonan , Kong Xiangying , Kulyar Muhammad Fakhar-e-Alam , Zeng Jiangyong , Li Jiakui
Published: May 2022

The present study determined the complete mitochondrial DNA (mt DNA) sequence of Fasciola intermediate (isolated from yaks) based on gene content and genome organization. According to our findings, the genome of Fasciola intermediate was 13,960 bp in length, containing 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 12 protein-coding genes (PCGs), and 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes. The A+T content of genomes was 63.19%, with A (15.17%), C (9.31%), G (27.51%), and T as the nucleotide composition (48.02%). Meanwhile, the results showed negative AT-skew (-0.52) and positive GC-skew (0.494). The AT bias significantly affected both the codon usage pattern and amino acid composition of proteins. There were 2715 codons in all 12 protein-coding genes, excluding termination codons. Leu (16.72%) was the most often used amino acid, followed by Val (12.74%), Phe (10.90%), Ser (10.09%), and Gly (8.39%). A phylogenetic tree was built using Maximum-Likelihood (ML) through MEGA 11.0 software. The entire mt DNA sequence of Fasciola intermediate gave more genetic markers for investigating Trematoda population genetics, systematics, and phylogeography. Hence, for the first time, our study confirmed that yaks on the Qinghai-Tibet plateau have the infestation of Fasciola intermediate parasite.
Oral Dimensions Related to Bit Size in Adult Horses and Ponies
Authors: Anttila Mirjami , Raekallio Marja , Valros Anna
Published: May 2022

A bit that fits is essential for horse welfare and good communication with the ridden, driven or led horses. The bit causes pressure on the sensitive structures of the horse mouth. The aim of this study was to investigate variation in oral dimensions related to bit fit in adult horses and ponies and to evaluate bit fit by comparing oral dimensions with the currently used bit size selected by the horse owner. The study population consisted of 554 horses and ponies, 308 geldings and 246 mares, age 5-29 years, presented for routine dental care. Oral dimensions: mouth width, distance between upper and lower jaw, tongue thickness and lower jaw width, were measured under sedation. Oral dimensions were compared with the most used bit mouthpiece size presented to the researcher by the owner. Bit type and material were recorded. All oral dimensions in adult horses and ponies varied by breed and sex. Mouth width and distance between upper and lower jaw correlated positively with age. Oral dimensions were significantly smaller in mares than in geldings. In coldblood Finnhorses, oral dimensions were greater than in other breeds; in ponies they were smaller. The majority of the oral dimensions correlated positively with each other. Lower jaw width did not correlate with tongue thickness. It was common to use a bit that did not fit the horse: the bit was either too short or too long (over 10 mm longer) compared to mouth width, compressed the tongue in between the upper and lower jaw, or the center link was of similar length compared to lower jaw width, thus possibly causing pressure points or a nutcracker effect on the bars of the lower jaw. Horses had, on average, space for a 14 mm thick bit without compressing the tongue. The results of this study can aid in choosing a horse bit size that fits correctly and does not cause discomfort. It is recommended that the fit of the bit is evaluated regularly as the horse ages.