bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Noise on Cognitive Performance and Helplessness in Childhood: A Review
Authors: Dohmen Maud , Braat-Eggen Ella , Kemperman Astrid , Hornikx Maarten
Published: December 2022

Environmental noise affects our daily functioning in many ways, and the cognitive, motivational, and emotional effects of noise are intertwined. Our task performance under noisy conditions depends on our ability to cope with the noise and our cognitive resources. The process of (failed) coping may wear us out cognitively, lead to learned helplessness, and, consequently, alter the motivation to persist in a task. The direct effect of irrelevant sounds on cognitive functioning in children is relatively well-established, however, the research on the framework of learned helplessness is limited when it comes to children. Learned helplessness can give more insight into effects of environmental noise on learning and child development and how the effects of short-term and long-term exposure interact. A systematic literature review is performed to assess to what extent the current evidence addresses the (interaction) effects of the sound environment on cognition and learned helplessness as measured by motivation in children and young adults up to the age of 21. The search resulted in 8 included papers that addressed both cognition and learned helplessness in their research. The included papers study children between 8–13 years old and show evidence for a relation between environmental noise, cognition, and helplessness individually, but none study a possible interaction. Based on the individual study designs, it could be hypothesized that cognitive fatigue may play a role in the interaction. Studies that conducted motivation tasks after cognitive tasks found stronger effects than those that conducted tasks in a random order. More research is needed using the same methods in different age groups to further assess the interaction between cognition and learned helplessness in relation to the sound environment.
Frailty Screening in the Emergency Department: Comparing the Variable Indicative of Placement Risk, Clinical Frailty Scale and PRISMA-7
Authors: O’Caoimh Rónán , McGauran Jane , O’Donovan Mark R. , Gillman Ciara , O’Hea Anne , Hayes Mary , O’Connor Kieran , Moloney Elizabeth , Alcock Megan
Published: December 2022

Prompt recognition of frailty in the emergency department (ED) is important to identify patients at higher risk of adverse outcomes. Despite this, few studies examine the diagnostic accuracy of screening instruments for frailty, instead focusing on predictive validity. We compared three commonly used, short frailty screens to an independent comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) in an urban University Hospital ED. Consecutive attendees aged ≥70 years were screened by trained raters, blind to the CGA, with the Variable Indicative of Placement risk (VIP), 3 and 4-item versions, Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) and PRISMA-7. Accuracy was measured from the area under the ROC curve (AUROC). In total, 197 patients were included, median age 79 (±10); 46% were female. Half (49%) were confirmed as frail after CGA. All instruments differentiated frail from non-frail states, although the CFS (AUROC: 0.91) and PRISMA-7 (AUROC: 0.90) had higher accuracy compared to the VIP-4 (AUROC: 0.84) and VIP-3 (AUROC: 0.84). The CFS was significantly more accurate than the VIP-3 (p = 0.026) or VIP-4 (p = 0.047). There was no significant difference between the CFS and PRISMA-7 (p = 0.90). The CFS and PRISMA-7 were more accurate and should be considered in preference to the VIP (3 or 4-item versions) to identify frailty in EDs.
Application of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Combined with Fluorescence Detector and Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction to Quantification of Selected Bisphenols in Human Amniotic Fluid Samples
Authors: Szubartowski Szymon , Tuzimski Tomasz
Published: December 2022

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely produced chemical worldwide found in numerous everyday products. Its endocrine-disrupting properties and omnipresence have aroused concern and led to several restrictions on its use. These restrictions and growing public awareness about the toxicity of BPA have resulted in market products labeled ”BPA-free”, with BPAs often being replaced by other bisphenols. This is why constant biomonitoring of bisphenol levels in various body fluids and tissues is essential. In this study, we propose the use of simple, cost-effective high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with the fluorescence detector (HPLC-FLD) method for the determination of simultaneously selected bisphenols in amniotic fluid. For the sample preparation, a fast, simple, and ”green” dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) method was used, achieving mean recovery values in the range of 80.9–115.9% with relative standard deviations below 12% for all analytes. Limits of quantification (LOQs) determined in the amniotic fluid matrix ranged from 6.17 to 22.72 ng/mL and were obtained from a calibration curve constructed using least-squares linear regression analysis for all cases. The presented sample preparation procedure can be easily adopted for LC-MS analysis.
Anyone but Me: Unrealistic Optimism, Emotions and Anxiety in the Face of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Wielgopolan Adrianna , Pastwa Maciej , Warkocka Aleksandra , Imbir Kamil Konrad
Published: December 2022

The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic (and its consequences, such as lockdown and public health regimes) was a novel and stressful situation for most of people, and, as such, it significantly affected both cognitive and emotional functioning of individuals. In our study, we explored unrealistic optimism bias (the cognitive error giving people a feeling of invulnerability) and any declared preventive behaviours undertaken in order to minimise the risk of contagion. We also measured twelve specific emotions (differing in valence and origin) and the feeling of the anxiety caused by the coronavirus. The results allowed us to confirm the occurrence of unrealistic optimism bias (being significantly stronger for men than women), which correlated negatively with the declared number of preventive behaviours. Unrealistic optimism was also positively correlated with negative automatic emotions and negatively correlated with positive reflective emotions. We created models accounting for the variance of general anxiety, finding significant predictors for both separate groups of younger and older adults (negative emotions, both automatic and reflective; and preventive behaviours). However, there was an effect of positive emotions (both automatic and reflective) having a protective role from the feeling of general anxiety, which was significant for the older group only. Our findings may be a valuable cue for coping with crisis situations.
The Epidemiology of Malignant Melanoma during the First Two Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Authors: Toma Ana-Olivia , Prodan Mihaela , Reddyreddy Akash Reddy , Seclaman Edward , Crainiceanu Zorin , Bloanca Vlad , Bratosin Felix , Dumitru Catalin , Pilut Ciprian Nicolae , Alambaram Satish , Vasamsetti Neeharika Gayatri , Decean Luminita , Pricop Marius
Published: December 2022

It is hypothesized that the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the epidemiology of malignant melanoma owing to diminished screening, diagnostic, and treatment capacities, resulting in a more advanced stage at initial presentation. The goal of this study is to undertake a systematic analysis of all epidemiological and clinical data on the trends and patient outcomes with malignant melanoma during the ongoing pandemic. Records were identified from PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science, selecting a total of 39 articles, narrative reviews, and editorial letters, following the PRISMA guidelines. The vast majority of the studies were published in Europe (28/39), and North America (7/39). A total of 99,860 patients were analyzed during 2020 and 2021 of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it was observed that malignant melanoma TNM staging increased significantly compared to the pre-pandemic period. Before the pandemic, 25.88% of patients had TNM stage II or above, compared to 36.25% during 2020–2021. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the malignant melanoma Breslow depth index grew from 1.59 mm before 2020 to 1.86 mm in 2020 and 2021. Patients decreased by 19.58% in 2020 and 2021 compared to pre-pandemic numbers. The patient–loss ratio indicated lower screening activity and patient addressability to dermatology and plastic surgery departments with skin cancer concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic study shows that the identification and management of malignant melanoma during the COVID-19 pandemic faced major challenges which should alert medical systems to the high number of patients with advanced disease stages who may need emergency treatment and become incurable.
Impact of Clinicopathological Characteristics and Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-3 Polymorphism Rs9619311 on Biochemical Recurrence in Taiwanese Patients with Prostate Cancer
Authors: Hsieh Chun-Yu , Lin Chia-Yen , Wang Shian-Shiang , Chou Ying-Erh , Chien Ming-Hsien , Wen Yu-Ching , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Yang Shun-Fa
Published: December 2022

The tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-3 (TIMP3) are not only endogenous regulators of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), but also induce apoptosis and inhibit endothelial cell migration and angiogenesis. The focus of this study was to investigate the relationship between TIMP3 genetic polymorphisms and biochemical recurrence and clinicopathological features of prostate cancer. The TIMP3 rs9619311, rs9862, and rs11547635 genetic polymorphisms were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction to determine their genotypic distributions in 579 patients with prostate cancer. This study found that individuals with the TIMP3 rs9619311 TC or TC + CC genotypes have a significantly higher risk of biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer (p = 0.036 and 0.033, respectively). Moreover, in the multivariate analysis, our results showed that pathologic Gleason grade, pathologic T stage, seminal vesicle invasion, lymphovascular invasion, and TIMP3 rs9619311 were associated with increased odds of biochemical recurrence. Patients with a PSA concentration under 7 ng/mL that were found to have the TIMP3 rs9619311 genetic polymorphism were associated with Gleason total score upgrade (p = 0.012) and grade group upgrade (p = 0.023). Compared with the CC homozygous, the TIMP3 rs9862 CT + TT polymorphic variant was found to be associated with clinically advanced tumor stage (p = 0.030) and Gleason total score upgrade (p = 0.002) in prostate cancer patients. In conclusion, the results of our study demonstrated that the TIMP3 rs9619311 genetic polymorphism was significantly associated with susceptibility to biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer. TIMP3 genetic polymorphisms, especially rs9619311, can serve as key predictors of biochemical recurrence and disease prognosis of prostate cancer.
Four Decades of Laccase Research for Wastewater Treatment: Insights from Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Puspita Kana , Chiari Williams , Abdulmadjid Syahrun N. , Idroes Rinaldi , Iqhrammullah Muhammad
Published: December 2022

Increasing trends of environmental pollution and emerging contaminants from anthropogenic activities have urged researchers to develop innovative strategies in wastewater management, including those using the biocatalyst laccase (EC 1.10.3.2). Laccase works effectively against a variety of substrates ranging from phenolic to non-phenolic compounds which only require molecular oxygen to be later reduced to H2O as the final product. In this study, we performed a bibliometric analysis on the metadata of literature acquired through the Scopus database (24 October 2022) with keyword combination “Laccase” AND “Pollutant” OR “Wastewater”. The included publications were filtered based on year of publication (1978–2022), types of articles (original research articles and review articles) and language (English). The metadata was then exported in a CSV (.csv) file and visualized on VosViewer software. A total of 1865 publications were identified, 90.9% of which were original research articles and the remaining 9.1% were review articles. Most of the authors were from China (n = 416; 22.3%) and India (n = 276; 14.79%). In the case of subject area, ‘Environmental Science’ emerged with the highest published documents (n = 1053; 56.46%). The identified papers mostly cover laccase activity in degrading pollutants, and chitosan, which can be exploited for the immobilization. We encourage more research on laccase-assisted wastewater treatment, especially in terms of collaborations among organizations.
The Effects of Zumba Fitness® on Respiratory Function and Body Composition Parameters: An Eight-Week Intervention in Healthy Inactive Women
Authors: Ljubojevic Adriana , Jakovljevic Vladimir , Bijelic Snezana , Sârbu Ioan , Tohănean Dragoș Ioan , Albină Constantin , Alexe Dan Iulian
Published: December 2022

Background: Women are considered less active than men, and a sedentary lifestyle particularly affects middle-aged women and affects their overall health. Recommending group fitness programs that have a positive effect on women’s overall health is an important strategy of any health policy. Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate how the Zumba Fitness® workout affects healthy inactive women’s respiratory function and body composition. Methods: The research was conducted for eight weeks on a sample of 41 females aged 35 to 45 divided into two groups: experimental (21 subjects: age 38.52 ± 2.29) and control (20 subjects: age 39.45 ± 3.01). They were tested before, four weeks, and eight weeks after the intervention period. The respiratory functions were tested using spirometry and the body composition parameters by the Tanita body analyzer. The experimental group practiced Zumba Fitness® three times per week for 60 min (24 training sessions in total). The control group was not physically active during the intervention period. Results: After the Zumba Fitness® program, the experimental group showed a significant improvement in the following respiratory function parameters: forced expiratory volume in the first second (M = 4.02 ± 0.69; MD = 0.65, p = 0.01, ES = 0.14), vital capacity (M = 4.10 ± 0.65: MD = −0.63, p = 0.03, ES = 0.11) and lung age (M = 30.95 ± 10.30; MD = 8.52, p = 0.04, ES = 0.10). The body composition parameters were significantly decreased: body mass (M = 60.09 ± 7.57; MD = 6.32, p = 0.03, ES = 0.11), body mass index (M = 20.44 ± 2.63; MD = 2.61, p = 0.01, ES = 0.13) and fat mass (M = 16.07 ± 4.87; MD = 3.95, p = 0.03, ES = 0.11). Conclusions: The results of the current study suggest that the Zumba Fitness® workout is a beneficial exercise method not only for reducing body parameters but also for improving respiratory function in inactive women.
Risk Reduction Assessment of Vibrio parahaemolyticus on Shrimp by a Chinese Eating Habit
Authors: Xu Huan , Liu Jing , Yuan Mengqi , Tian Cuifang , Lin Ting , Liu Jiawen , Osaris Caridad Olivera , Pan Yingjie , Zhao Yong , Zhang Zhaohuan
Published: December 2022

In China, a traditional perspective recommended that consuming seafood should be mixed or matched with vinegar, because people thought this traditional Chinese eating habit could reduce the risk of pathogenic microorganism infection, such as Vibrio parahaemolyticus induced diarrhea. However, this empirical viewpoint has not yet been evaluated scientifically. This study conducted a simplified quantitative microbiological risk assessment (QMRA) model, which was employed to estimate the risk reduction of V. parahaemolyticus on ready-to-eat (RTE) shrimp by consuming with vinegars (white vinegar, aromatic vinegar, or mature vinegar). Results showed the reduction of V. parahaemolyticus density on RTE shrimp after consuming with white vinegar, aromatic vinegar and mature vinegar was respectively 0.9953 log CFU/g (90% confidence interval 0.23 to 1.76), 0.7018 log CFU/g (90% confidence interval 0.3430 to 1.060) and 0.6538 log CFU/g (90% confidence interval 0.346 to 0.9620). The infection risk of V. parahaemolyticus per meal in this QMRA model was quantified by a mean of 0.1250 with the standard deviation of 0.2437. After consuming with white vinegar, aromatic vinegar, and mature vinegar, the mean infection risk of V. parahaemolyticus on shrimp decreased to 0.0478, 0.0652, and 0.0686. The QMRA scenarios indicated significant reductions in infection risk when eating RTE shrimp by the Chinese eating habit (consuming with vinegar). This good eating habit should be recommended to promote the spread of around the world.
The Status of Digital Dental Technology Implementation in the Saudi Dental Schools’ Curriculum: A National Cross-Sectional Survey for Healthcare Digitization
Authors: Alfallaj Hayam A. , Afrashtehfar Kelvin I. , Asiri Ali K. , Almasoud Farah S. , Alnaqa Ghaida H. , Al-Angari Nadia S.
Published: December 2022

Objective: The primary objective of this cross-sectional national study was to investigate the status of digital dental technology (DDT) adoption in Saudi Arabian undergraduate dental education. A secondary objective was to explore the impact of dental schools’ funding sources to incorporate digital technologies. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to the chairpersons of prosthetic sciences departments of the 27 dental schools in Saudi Arabia. If any department chairman failed to respond to the survey, a designated full-time faculty member was contacted to fill out the form. The participants were asked about the school’s sector, DDT implementation in the curriculum, implemented level, their perceptions of the facilitators and challenges for incorporating DDT. Results: Of the 27 dental schools (18 public and 8 private), 26 responded to the questionnaire (response rate: 96.3%). The geographic distribution of the respondent schools was as follows: 12 schools in the central region, 6 in the western region, and 8 in other regions. Seventeen schools secure and preserve patients’ records using electronic software, whereas nine schools use paper charts. Seventeen schools (64,4%) implemented DDT in their curricula. The schools that did not incorporate DDT into their undergraduate curricula were due to not being included in the curriculum (78%), lack of expertise (66%), untrained faculty and staff (44%), and cost (33%). Conclusions: This national study showed that digital components still need to be integrated into Saudi Arabian dental schools’ curricula and patient care treatment. Additionally, there was no association between funding sources and the DDT implementation into the current curricula. Consequently, Saudi dental schools must emphasize the implementation and utilization of DDT to align with Saudi Vision 2030 for healthcare digitization and to graduate competent dentists in digital dental care.
Ecological and Health Risk Assessments of Heavy Metals Contained in Sediments of Polish Dam Reservoirs
Authors: Sojka Mariusz , Ptak Mariusz , Jaskuła Joanna , Krasniqi Vlerë
Published: December 2022

This study aimed at investigating the distribution of heavy metals (HMs: Zn, Pb, Cd, Ni, Cr, and Cu) in the bottom sediments of 28 reservoirs covered area of Poland. The paper evaluates the pollution of sediments with HMs and their potential toxic effects on aquatic organisms and human health on the basis of results provided by the Chief Inspectorate of Environmental Protection in Poland. The average concentrations of HMs in the bottom sediments of the reservoirs were as follows: Cd < Ni < Cr < Cu < Pb < Zn. (0.187, 7.30, 7.74, 10.62, 12.47, and 52.67 mg∙dm−3). The pollution load index values were from 0.05 to 2.45. They indicate contamination of the bottom sediments in seven reservoirs. The contamination-factor values suggest pollution with individual HMs in 19 reservoirs, primarily Cr, Ni, Cu, and Pb. The analysis showed that only two reservoirs had the potential for toxic effects on aquatic organisms due to high concentrations of Cd and Pb. The hazard index values for all the analyzed HMs were less than one. Therefore, there was no non-carcinogenic risk for dredging workers. The reservoirs were divided into two groups in terms of composition and concentration values. Reservoirs with higher concentrations of HMs in bottom sediments are dispersed, suggesting local pollution sources. For the second group of reservoirs, HMs’ concentrations may be determined by regional pollution sources. The analysis showed that Pb, Zn, and Cd concentrations are higher in older reservoirs and those with higher proportions of artificial areas in their catchments. Concentrations of Ni, Cu, and Cr are higher in reservoirs in south Poland and those with higher Schindler’s ratios.
The Mediated Effect of Sports Confidence on Competitive State Anxiety and Perceived Performance of Basketball Game
Authors: Chun Da-Ran , Lee Mi-Young , Kim Sang-Woo , Cho Eun-Young , Lee Byoung-Hee
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to determine the mediating effect of sports confidence on competitive state anxiety and perceived performance basketball game. This study was conducted on 219 Korean basketball players, including 101 men and 118 women who were either high school students (42), university students (96), or professional basketball players (81). The Sources of Sport Confidence Questionnaire (SSCQ), Revised Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2R), and the perceived performance questionnaire was used to measure sports confidence, competitive state anxiety, and perceived performance, respectively. The results showed that self-confidence (β = z 0.552, p < 0.001) and the coaches’ leadership (β = 0.552, p < 0.001) were found to be factors that influenced perceived performance. The perceived performance showed a positive correlation with all the sports confidence subscales and self-confidence of the competitive state anxiety subscales (p < 0.01). However, it showed a negative correlation with cognitive and somatic anxiety (p < 0.01). Sports confidence had a statistically significant mediating effect between somatic anxiety and perceived performance and a statistically significant mediating effect between self-confidence and perceived performance (p < 0.05). It appeared that sports confidence and competitive state anxiety had a statistically significant effect on perceived.
Low Back Pain Prevalence among Distance Learning Students
Authors: Hawamdeh Mohannad , Altaim Thamer A. , Shallan Amjad , Gaowgzeh Riziq Allah , Obaidat Sakher M. , Alfawaz Saad , Al-Nassan Saad M. , Neamatallah Ziyad , Eilayyan Owis , Alabasi Umar M. , Albadi Majed
Published: December 2022

Background: Low back pain as a symptom affects many individuals around the globe regardless of their economic status or sociodemographic characteristics. During the 2019 COVID-19 pandemic, students found themselves obligated to sit down for long periods of time. The aim of this current study is to investigate the impact of these prolonged periods of sitting down in front of computers on developing a new episode of low back pain. Methods and Materials: This research adopted an observational cross-section study design. Students who are currently enrolled or had experienced distance learning classes in the last 6 months were eligible to participate. An online-based questionnaire was developed by the investigators through reviewing the literature with relevant objectives. McNemar’s test was used to compare certain variables between two periods before and during online distance learning. We used paired t-tests to compare pain intensity before, during, and after online learning, while a chi-square test was used to investigate correlations between factors influencing low back pain. Results: A total of 84 students participated in the study—46 (54.8%) females and 38 (45.2%) males. Before online distance learning, only 42.9% of participants reported low back pain, while only 20% had a back injury. The mean pain scores before, during, and after online distance learning were (2.85 ± 2.16, 4.79 ± 2.6, and 4.76 ± 2.7), respectively. The pain scores before online learning were significantly lower than pain scores during and after online distance learning (p < 0.05), respectively. Conclusion: The study findings suggested that low back pain prevalence increased among students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future research should study participants’ behavior during the online learning and assess the long-run impact of distance learning among high-school and undergraduate students.
Effects of Combined Plyometric and Shooting Training on the Biomechanical Characteristics during the Made Jump Shot in Young Male Basketball Players
Authors: Radenković Marko , Lazić Anja , Stanković Dušan , Cvetković Milan , Đorđić Višnja , Petrović Miloš , Tomović Milena , Kouidi Evangelia , Preljević Adem , Marković Jovan , Berić Dragana , Stojanović Marko , Kocić Miodrag , Aksović Nikola , Petković Emilija , Čoh Milan , Bogataj Špela , Bubanj Saša
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Shooting performance is one of the most important determinants of basketball success and is strongly influenced by vertical jump performance. A lot of research attention has been paid to training programs that may improve the vertical jump. However, the literature regarding the improvement of accuracy during the jump shot is limited. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the combination of two training programs on explosive power of the lower extremities during the made jump shot. (2) Methods: A total of 61 male basketball players were assigned into training group (T, n = 31, age 15.32 ± 0.65) which was conducting a specific, i.e., experimental training program, and control group (C, n = 30, age 16.3 ± 0.71 years) involved in a regular training program. The experimental training program included specific plyometric training with shooting training which lasted for 10 weeks. The obtained data were processed by nonparametric statistics to determine the differences in the vertical jump outcomes, as well as to determine the level of impact of the experimental training program. Wilcoxon and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used. (3) Results: A significant improvement (p ≤ 0.05) was noticed in the T group, in every vertical jump variable (flight time, height of the jump, power, and speed of the jump during a jump shot for two and three points), while there was no improvement within the C group. (4) Conclusions: The combination of plyometric and shooting training has a positive impact on the explosive power of the lower extremities during the jump shot.
Problematic Video Game Use and Mental Health among Spanish Adolescents
Authors: García-Gil María Ángeles , Fajardo-Bullón Fernando , Rasskin-Gutman Irina , Sánchez-Casado Inmaculada
Published: December 2022

Current scientific evidence points to the importance of studying the link between mental health and problematic video game use in adolescents. The aim of this study was to analyse the correlation between gender and stage of adolescence and problematic video game use, as well as to study the correlation between internalizing and externalizing symptomatology, prosocial behaviour and video game use, and the correlation between video gaming and mental health issues in Spanish 12- to 18-year-olds (M = 14.51; SD = 1.57). For this purpose, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Video Game-Related Experiences Questionnaire (VGEQ) were administered to 1448 secondary school students in Extremadura (Spain), of which 50.8% were women and 49.8% men. The results show that (a) males present more problematic video game use, (b) prosocial behaviour negatively correlates with problematic video game use, and (c) mental health issues and problematic video game use correlate in a negative way. However, the stage of adolescence was not seen to have any effect on the problematic video game use. In conclusion, this study points the effects that problematic video game use can have on the mental health of adolescents and the possible protective role that prosocial behaviours can have on the prevention of problematic video game use.
Temporal and Spatial Evolution of Eichmann Lake Wetland in Aksu River Basin and Its Response to Ecological Water Supply
Authors: Nie Yan , Yin Chen , Wang Pu , He Xingying , Cao Junjun , Yu Jing
Published: December 2022

Timely understanding and quantitative analysis of the changing trend in natural ecosystems in arid and semi-arid areas and their response to the ecological water supply process are of great significance for maintaining the health of oasis ecosystems. Taking the Eichmann Lake wetland of the Aksu River Basin in Xinjiang as the research area, the temporal-spatial distribution characteristics of the lake and the response of ecological water in recent years were studied based on remote sensing images and monitoring data. The results show that: (1) The water surface area of Eichmann Lake is shrinking, from 61.57 km2 in 1996 to 27.76 km2 in 2020. The changes in water surface area have experienced three stages: rapid decline, slow decline, and slow recovery. After the ecological water supply, the water surface area has obvious seasonal changes with hysteresis; (2) In areas with a low average water level, the ecological water supply has a significant impact on the groundwater level. The higher the water supply is, the higher the groundwater level will be. There is a significant lag effect between the change in the groundwater level and the response of the ecological water supply, which is 1–2 months; (3) The response characteristics of different natural vegetation to the ecological water supply were different in interannual, seasonal, and spatial contexts. The response of Populus euphratica to the ecological water supply is obvious, and its growth is the best within the range of 100–500 m from the water supply outlet. This research can provide the basis for the rational allocation of the Aksu River Basin’s water resources, and also act as a valuable reference for the restoration and reconstruction of surrounding vegetation in the Aksu River irrigation area.
The Impact of Retired Immigrants on Quality of Life for the Local Aging Population: Results from the Southeast Spanish Coast
Authors: Valero-Escandell José Ramón , Amat-Montesinos Xavier , Cortés-Samper Carlos
Published: December 2022

The immigration of foreign retirees to Spain’s southeast coast is a tradition that stretches back decades. This phenomenon has modified the demographic structure of many towns and also transformed their social and economic features, as well as the number and diversity of services available to the population. This study examines the effect of post-employment immigration on economic revitalisation, the increase in services and the arrival of new inhabitants. It demonstrates the transformative potential of the phenomenon for pre-coastal areas in the Spanish southeast and its influence on the configuration of friendly residential environments. The study analyses the evolution of basic demographic data and its spatial behaviour, establishing relationships between the quality of life of the local aging population and retired immigrants. The analysis focuses on the impact of residentialist areas on the configuration of friendly living environments. The results show how these communities, which were once somewhat stagnant and had a significantly aging population, either participated in the development or have improved their access to certain services and facilities, configuring new environments. The results reflect the improvement of the quality of life for the elderly in these settings, considering that they are often the majority age group.
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma and Its Effect on Dry Eye Disease: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Chen Ching-Tai , Yang Shun-Fa , Chao Shih-Chun , Lee Chia-Yi , Huang Jing-Yang , Lin Hung-Yu
Published: December 2022

The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and dry eye disease (DED) using the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) of Taiwan. A retrospective cohort study was conducted, and patients with an NPC diagnosis were included. Next, one NPC patient was matched to four non-NPC participants via demographic data and systemic comorbidities. In total, 4184 and 16,736 participants were enrolled in the NPC and non-NPC groups, respectively. The primary outcome was the development of DED one year after the diagnosis of NPC. Cox proportional hazard regression was applied to estimate the adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of DED. In this study, 717 and 2225 DED cases were found in the NPC and non-NPC groups, respectively, and the NPC group showed a significantly higher incidence of DED development compared to the non-NPC group (aHR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.33–1.58, p < 0.0001) in the multivariable analysis. The other covariates that were positively correlated with DED development included age over 40 years, an education level higher than senior high school, hypertension, DM, allergic pulmonary diseases, allergic otolaryngologic diseases, and allergic dermatological diseases (all p < 0.05). In conclusion, the presence of NPC is an independent risk factor for subsequent DED.
Leadless AV Pacemaker in Patient with Complete Heart Block and Bilaterally Implanted Two Deep Brain Stimulators Can Be Safe Therapeutic Option
Authors: Michalik Jędrzej , Kozielski Jonasz , Węclewicz Mateusz , Moroz Roman , Sterliński Maciej , Szołkiewicz Marek
Published: December 2022

There are reports documenting that electromagnetic waves generated by deep brain stimulation devices can interfere with cardiac pacemakers. This might be even a life-threatening problem in cardiac pacemaker-dependent patients. Herein, we present a case report on a patient with bilaterally implanted deep brain stimulation devices, who concomitantly had the indications for permanent cardiac pacing. The report shows that a leadless AV pacemaker may be a safe and reasonable option in these cases.
Association of Sleep Patterns with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Liu Mengdie , Ahmed Wali Lukman , Zhuo Lang , Yuan Hui , Wang Shuo , Zhou Fang
Published: December 2022

Sleep duration, sleep quality and circadian rhythm disruption indicated by sleep chronotype are associated with type 2 diabetes. Sleep involves multiple dimensions that are closely interrelated. However, the sleep patterns of the population, and whether these sleep patterns are significantly associated with type 2 diabetes, are unknown when considering more sleep dimensions. Our objective was to explore the latent classes of sleep patterns in the population and identify sleep patterns associated with type 2 diabetes. Latent class analysis was used to explore the best latent classes of sleep patterns based on eleven sleep dimensions of the study population. Logistic regression was used to identify sleep patterns associated with type 2 diabetes. A total of 1200 participants were included in the study. There were three classes of sleep patterns in the study population: “circadian disruption with daytime dysfunction” (class 1), “poor sleep status with daytime sleepiness” (class 2), and “favorable sleep status” (class 3). After controlling for all confounding factors, people in class 2 have significantly higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes than those in class 3 (OR: 2.24, 95% CI 1.26–4.00). Sleep problems have aggregated characteristics. People with sleep patterns involving more or worse sleep problems have higher significantly prevalence of T2DM.
A National Quality Improvement Program on Ultrasound Department in China: A Controlled Cohort Study of 1297 Public Hospitals
Authors: Tao Xixi , Li Jianchu , Gu Yang , Ma Li , Xu Wen , Wang Ruojiao , Gao Luying , Zhang Rui , Wang Hongyan , Jiang Yuxin
Published: December 2022

Providing high-quality medical services is of great importance in the imaging department, as there is a growing focus on personal health, and high-quality services can lead to improved patient outcomes. Many quality improvement (QI) programs with good guidance and fine measurement for improvement have been reported to be effective. In order to improve the quality of ultrasound departments in China, we conducted this study of a national quality improvement program. A total of 1297 public hospitals were included in this QI program on ultrasound departments in China from 2017 to 2019. The effect of this QI program was investigated, and potential factors, including hospital level and local economic development, were considered. The outcome indicators, the positive rate and diagnostic accuracy, were improved significantly between the two phases (positive rate, 2017 vs. 2019: 66.21% vs. 73.91%, p < 0.001; diagnostic accuracy, 2017 vs. 2019: 85.37% vs. 89.74%; p < 0.001). Additionally, they were improved in secondary and tertiary hospitals, with the improvement in secondary hospitals being greater. Notably, the enhancement of diagnostic accuracy in low-GDP provinces was almost 20%, which was more significant than the enhancement in high-GDP provinces. However, the important structural indicator, the doctor-to-patient ratio, decreased from 1.05:10,000 to 0.96:10,000 (p = 0.026). This study suggests that the national ultrasound QI program improved the outcome indicators, with secondary-level hospitals improving more than tertiary hospitals and low-GDP provinces improving more than high-GDP regions. Additionally, as there is a growing need for ultrasound examinations, more ultrasound doctors are needed in China.
Game Space and Game Situation as Mediators of the External Load in the Tasks of School Handball
Authors: Feu Sebastián , García-Ceberino Juan Manuel , Gamero María Gracia , González-Espinosa Sergio , Antúnez Antonio
Published: December 2022

The teacher’s didactic intervention also requires knowledge and control of learning tasks’ workloads. The objectives of the study were as follows: (i) to quantify the subjective external load-eTL of tasks framed in didactic units designed by in-service teachers; and (ii) to analyze the differences in the subjective eTL according to the game situation and the game space. A total of 306 learning tasks designed by seven in-service teachers (five men and two women), with more than 10 years of teaching practice, were analyzed. These tasks were coded through the Integral System for Training Task Analysis (SIATE, acronym in Spanish). The interobserver reliability of the coded variables obtained a considerable concordance (MKfree > 0.70). The results indicated that there were significant differences in the subjective eTL according to the game situation and game space. The situations of small-sided games in numerical equality or inequality and full games, in medium spaces or large spaces, presented a higher subjective eTL and therefore the highest physiological and motor demands on students. The inclusion of attacking or defending players and an adequate selection of the game space indicated the importance of planning and organizing learning tasks.
Development and Pilot Testing of a Booklet Concerning Medications That Can Increase the Risk of Falls in Older People
Authors: Shaari Mohammad Suhaidi , Wahab Mohd Shahezwan Abd , Abdul Halim Zaki Izzati , Alias Rosmaliah , Zulkifli Muhammad Harith , Ali Aida Azlina , Zulkifli Nur Wahida , Ismail Farhana Fakhira , Hasan Mizaton Hazizul , Meilina Rulia , Ming Long Chiau , Tan Ching Siang
Published: December 2022

Background: A common contributory factor to falls is the use of medicines, especially those commonly known as “fall-risk increasing drugs” (FRIDs). The use of FRIDs is common among older people (OP). However, OP and their family caregivers (FCGs) are largely unaware of FRIDs and their risks in increasing the risk of falls (ROF). Methods: A booklet which aims to provide information on topics related to FRIDs was developed. The booklet was reviewed by a panel of 14 reviewers, and the content validity index (CVI) for each subsection of the booklet was computed. Pilot testing of the booklet utilized a pre-post intervention study design and included 50 OP and 50 FCGs as study participants. Perceived knowledge of the participants was assessed prior to and after completing the booklet. Participants’ opinions on the usefulness and usability of the booklet were also obtained. Results: The booklet contained eight sections and each subsection of the booklet had a CVI ranging from 0.93 to 1.00. Completing the booklet resulted in improved perceived knowledge scores for each perceived knowledge item among both the OP and FCG groups (all items: p-value < 0.001). The participants perceived the booklet as useful and usable, as evidenced by almost all the perceived usefulness and usability items having a score of over 4.0. Conclusions: The FRIDs booklet developed in this study had good content validity and was widely accepted by the OP and FCGs. The positive effect on the participants’ knowledge of topics related to FRIDs means that the booklet could be useful as a patient education tool to enhance FRIDs knowledge and awareness among OP and FCGs.
Ten-Year Probabilities of Death Due to Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease among Breast Cancer Patients Diagnosed in North-Eastern Spain
Authors: Clèries Ramon , Ameijide Alberto , Buxó Maria , Vilardell Mireia , Martínez José Miguel , Font Rebeca , Marcos-Gragera Rafael , Puigdemont Montse , Viñas Gemma , Carulla Marià , Espinàs Josep Alfons , Galceran Jaume , Izquierdo Ángel , Borràs Josep Maria
Published: December 2022

Mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD), second tumours, and other causes is of clinical interest in the long-term follow-up of breast cancer (BC) patients. Using a cohort of BC patients (N = 6758) from the cancer registries of Girona and Tarragona (north-eastern Spain), we studied the 10-year probabilities of death due to BC, other cancers, and CVD according to stage at diagnosis and hormone receptor (HR) status. Among the non-BC causes of death (N = 720), CVD (N = 218) surpassed other cancers (N = 196). The BC cohort presented a significantly higher risk of death due to endometrial and ovarian cancers than the general population. In Stage I, HR− patients showed a 1.72-fold higher probability of all-cause death and a 6.11-fold higher probability of breast cancer death than HR+ patients. In Stages II–III, the probability of CVD death (range 3.11% to 3.86%) surpassed that of other cancers (range 0.54% to 3.11%). In Stage IV patients, the probability of death from any cancer drove the mortality risk. Promoting screening and preventive measures in BC patients are warranted, since long-term control should encompass early detection of second neoplasms, ruling out the possibility of late recurrence. In patients diagnosed in Stages II–III at an older age, surveillance for preventing late cardiotoxicity is crucial.
The Influence of Patient-Centered Communication on Children’s Anxiety and Use of Anesthesia for MR
Authors: Castro M. Conceição , Ramos Isabel , Carvalho Irene Palmares
Published: December 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to inspect the influence of patient-centered communication (PCC) with 4- to 10-year-old children on the use of anesthesia for magnetic resonance imaging exams (MRs). Methods: A total of thirty children received the PCC and pre-simulated the exam with an MR toy. Another 30 children received routine information about the MR and pre-simulated the exam with the toy. Anesthesia use in these two groups was additionally compared with a previously existing group of children (n = 30) who had received only routine information about the exam (CG). Children’s anxiety was assessed with a self-report question plus heartbeat frequency. Children’s satisfaction was assessed through several questions. The analyses were based on group comparisons and regression. Results: A total of two children (7%) in the PCC + simulation group used sedation compared with 14 (47%) in the simulation group and 21 (70%) in the CG. Differences between the PCC + simulation and the other two groups were significant (p < 0.001), although not between the simulation and the CG. The decrease in anxiety was significantly greater (self-reported p < 0.001; heart rate p < 0.05) and satisfaction was higher (p = 0.001) in the PCC + simulation, when compared with the simulation group. Reduced anxiety was associated with less anesthesia use (OR 1.39; CI 1.07–1.79; p = 0.013). Conclusions: PCC + simulation was more effective than simulation and routine practice in decreasing children’s anxiety, increasing satisfaction, and reducing the use of anesthesia for MRs.
A Study on the Injury Rate of Spanish Competitive Athletes as a Consequence of the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown
Authors: Prieto-Fresco José Manuel , Medina-Rebollo Daniel , Fernández-Gavira Jesús , Muñoz-Llerena Antonio
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 lockdown may have had collateral effects on the conditions of athletes, with possible increases in injury risks upon the return to sports. Due to the existence of multiple factors of injury risks based on the lockdown and the return to sports, the aim of this study was to analyze the injury rates after the lockdown in competitive athletes. A non-experimental quantitative design based on a survey was carried out, and 94 athletes (42 males and 52 females; 23.57 ± 6.20 years) participated. Statistical analyses were carried out using non-parametric tests. Injury rates did not increase significantly after the lockdown, and there were no statistical differences between performance levels, types of sports, the design of a specific training program by sports professionals during the lockdown, the moment of injury, and the mechanism of injury. It is important to develop injury prevention protocols to prepare athletes after such a long period of detraining.
PD1, CTLA4 and TIGIT Expression on T and NK Cells in Granulomatous Diseases: Sarcoidosis and ANCA-Associated Vasculitis
Authors: d’Alessandro Miriana , Conticini Edoardo , Bergantini Laura , Mezzasalma Fabrizio , Cameli Paolo , Baglioni Stefano , Armati Martina , Abbritti Marta , Bargagli Elena
Published: December 2022

Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous diseases affecting the lungs. Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a histologically granulomatous B-mediated disorder characterized by activated T cells. The expression of immune checkpoint (IC) molecules (PD1, CTLA4, TIGIT) on T- and NK-cells negatively regulate the T-cell immune function. The present study aimed to explore the peripheral distribution of IC molecules to better elucidate their peripheral tolerance failure, which might reflect the development of diseases. Patients referred to Respiratory Diseases and Rheumatology Unit of Siena University Hospital were prospectively and consecutively enrolled. Healthy subjects were also enrolled as a control group. Multicolor flow cytometric analysis was performed to detect IC molecules in the peripheral blood of patients. Twenty-three patients were consecutively and prospectively enrolled in the study: 11 patients had an AAV diagnosis and 12 had sarcoidosis. CD4+PD1+ cells were higher in sarcoidosis and GPA than in HC (p = 0.0250 and p = 0.0253, respectively). CD56+CTLA4+ were higher in sarcoidosis than GPA, MPA and HC (p = 0.0085, p = 0.0042 and p = 0.0004, respectively). CTLA4+NK cells clustered for 100% of sarcoidosis patients according to decision tree analysis, while PD1+CD4 and CD8 cells for clustered for 100% of GPA patients. Our analyses showed substantial differences between sarcoidosis and AAV, further confirming the immunological peculiarity of this disease. Despite these advances, the pathogenesis remains incompletely understood, indicating an urgent need for further research to reveal the distinct immunological events in this process, with the hope to open up new therapeutic avenues and, if possible, to develop preventive measures.
Plant Proteomic Research 5.0: From Data to Insights
Authors: Komatsu Setsuko , Colgrave Michelle L.
Published: December 2022

Proteomics offers one of the best approaches for the functional analysis of the genome, generating detailed information that can be integrated with that obtained by other classic and omics approaches [...]