bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The COVID‐19 pandemic: The watershed moment for student mobility in Chinese universities?
Authors: Li Min , Ai Ni
Published: February 2022

As COVID‐19 drastically affects cross‐border mobility, virtual mobility emerges as a viable alternative to cope with the crisis. This article reports on the integrated findings of an exploratory sequential mixed methods design to understand benefits and challenges of virtual mobility at a Chinese university and future projection of outbound student mobility. The mixed methods design used in this study is characterized by an initial quantitative phase of data collection and analysis, followed by a phase of qualitative data collection and analysis, with a final phase of integration or linking of data from the two separate strands of data. The study suggests Chinese students appreciate the flexibility and economic advantages of virtual mobility but also express concerns on several limitations. Online mobility may be viewed as a complement or alternative for Chinese institutions when the COVID‐19 crisis is over. As Chinese universities are promoting internationalization at home, the number of virtual programmes available to Chinese students will surge. In this context, coupled with the stress of geopolitical instability, the growth in Chinese student mobility may be entering a period of contraction, which may exert profound impacts on a global scale.
Exploring an algorithm to harmonize International Obesity Task Force and World Health Organization child overweight and obesity prevalence rates
Authors: Cole Tim J. , Lobstein Tim
Published: February 2022

Background

The International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) and World Health Organization (WHO) body mass index (BMI) cut‐offs are widely used to assess child overweight, obesity and thinness prevalence, but the two references applied to the same children lead to different prevalence rates.

Objectives

To develop an algorithm to harmonize prevalence rates based on the IOTF and WHO cut‐offs, to make them comparable.

Methods

The cut‐offs are defined as age‐sex‐specific BMI z‐scores, for example, WHO +1 SD for overweight. To convert an age‐sex‐specific prevalence rate based on reference cut‐off A to the corresponding prevalence based on reference cut‐off B, first back‐transform the z‐score cut‐offs and to age‐sex‐specific BMI cut‐offs, then transform the BMIs to z‐scores and using the opposite reference. These z‐scores together define the distance between the two cut‐offs as the z‐score difference . Prevalence in the target group based on cut‐off A is then transformed to a z‐score, adjusted up or down according to and back‐transformed, and this predicts prevalence based on cut‐off B. The algorithm's performance was tested on 74 groups of children from 14 European countries.

Results

The algorithm performed well. The standard deviation (SD) of the difference between pairs of prevalence rates was 6.6% (n = 604), while the residual SD, the difference between observed and predicted prevalence, was 2.3%, meaning that the algorithm explained 88% of the baseline variance.

Conclusions

The algorithm goes some way to addressing the problem of harmonizing overweight and obesity prevalence rates for children aged 2–18.
Cannabis, cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol in sport: an overview
Authors: Kennedy Michael
Published: February 2022

The World Anti‐Doping Agency now allows cannabidiol (CBD) to be taken in elite sport, but has retained all other cannabinoids on its banned list. This, together with liberalisation of cannabis laws, has led to an increasing interest in its use in sport. This includes commercial sponsorship of sporting events and highlights the need for accurate information to be readily available to athletes and their advisers. This narrative review confirms that CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) do not enhance performance. CBD possesses anti‐inflammatory and analgesic properties that have not been adequately evaluated in the area of sport. Some formulations of CBD contain THC or other cannabinoids that may result in a positive drug test.
ZnF2‐modified AlF3‐based fluoride glasses with enhanced mid‐infrared 3.5 μ$\umu$m emission
Authors: Zhang Jie , Wang Ruicong , Liu Mo , Wang Shunbin , Zhang Zhi , Farrell Gerald , Jia Shijie , Wang Pengfei
Published: February 2022

A novel ZnF2–AlF3 based fluoride glass was prepared. The introduction of ZnF2 can lower the phonon energy of AlF3–BaF2–YF3–SrF2 glass while maintaining good thermal stabilities. The mid‐infrared emission properties of Er3+‐doped ZnF2–AlF3–YF3–SrF2–BaF2 (ZAYSB) glasses were investigated. Enhanced 3.5 μm and 2.7 μm emissions were observed with an incremental increase in the content of ZnF2. In addition, the Er3+‐doped ZAYSB glass was shown to have a large emission cross‐section of 3.5 μm. This study indicates that this ZAYSB glass is a promising glass material for 3.5 μm fiber‐laser applications.
Elucidating the interaction of rhizosphere bacteria and environmental factors in influencing active ingredient content of Lycium barbarum fruit in China
Authors: Liu Si Yang , Wang Qi Qi , Lei Yong Hui , Wang Sai Sai , Chen Kai Li , Li Yang , Xiong Jie , Liang Xiao Jie , Zhou Xuan , Li Yue Kun , Sun Yan Fei
Published: February 2022

Aims

This study aimed to compare the differences in the bacterial community structure of Lycium barbarum rhizosphere and elucidate the contribution of rhizosphere bacteria to the active ingredients of L. barbarum fruit.

Methods and Results

This study investigated the soil and meteorological characteristics of L. barbarum rhizosphere during three growth stages across three production regions of China. High-throughput sequencing showed significant differences in the bacterial community diversity of L. barbarum rhizosphere across the three production regions, and norank_o_Gaiellales, norank_f_Anaerolineaceae and norank_f_AKYG1722 were the highest in Ningxia. In addition, regression and path analysis revealed that pH, norank_o_Gaiellales and norank_f_AKYG1722 significantly promoted the accumulation of total sugar and flavonoids in L. barbarum fruit directly or indirectly. Soil organic matter (SOM), norank_f_Anaerolineaceae and humidity significantly promoted the accumulation of betaine. The average temperature during the growth stages, norank_f_AKYG1722, and norank_o_Gaiellales promoted the accumulation of polysaccharides.

Conclusions

The interaction between rhizosphere bacteria and environmental factors promoted the accumulation of active ingredients in L. barbarum fruits.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Our results provided insights to improve the quality of L. barbarum fruit.
Overexpression of c‐Jun inhibits erastin‐induced ferroptosis in Schwann cells and promotes repair of facial nerve function
Authors: Gao Dekun , Huang Yuyu , Sun Xiayu , Yang Jun , Chen Jianyong , He Jingchun
Published: February 2022

Myelin undergoes various changes after nerve injury, and c‐Jun has a close relationship with Schwann cells (SCs). However, it remains unclear whether c‐Jun can be involved in nerve repair by regulating ferroptosis. To explore this, we first set up a facial nerve injury model and detected the changes of ferroptosis‐related proteins and c‐Jun by immunofluorescence and Western blot. Then, we cultured RSC 96 and pSCs, and studied the potential regulatory relationships by a combination of experimental methods such as CCK‐8, ELISA, immunofluorescence, qRT‐PCR, Western blot and viral transfection. Finally, we corroborated the role of c‐Jun through animal experiments. Our experiments revealed that ferroptosis occurs after facial nerve injury. Erastin decreased GPX4, c‐Jun proteins and GSH content, while PTGS2, NRF2, HO‐1 proteins, MDA, Fe2+ and ROS contents increased. This effect was inhibited after c‐Jun overexpression but was reversed after the addition of c‐Jun siRNA. Besides, we proved in vivo that c‐Jun could inhibit ferroptosis and promote the recovery of facial nerve function. In conclusion, our study identified the relationship between c‐Jun and ferroptosis during peripheral nerve injury repair, which provides new ideas for studying peripheral nerve injury and repair.
Surgical treatment of experimental peri‐implantitis using mechanical and chemical decontamination procedures: A pre‐clinical in vivo study
Authors: Almohandes Ahmed , Abrahamsson Ingemar , Dionigi Carlotta , Berglundh Tord
Published: February 2022

Aim

To evaluate the effect of surgical treatment of experimental peri‐implantitis at implants with different surface characteristics using mechanical and chemical decontamination methods.

Materials and Methods

Following extraction of mandibular premolars, four implants with two different surface characteristics (A, moderately rough and B, smooth) were placed in each side of the mandible of six dogs. Experimental peri‐implantitis was induced. Surgical treatment of the peri‐implantitis sites was carried out using four implant surface decontamination protocols: (i) deposition of a citric acid gel, (ii) mechanical cleaning using a rotating titanium brush, (iii) a combination of the mechanical and chemical procedures, and (iv) saline (control). Clinical and radiographic examinations were performed. Block biopsies were obtained 6 months after therapy and prepared for histological analysis.

Results

Irrespective of the treatment group, treatment resulted in 0.63 ± 0.92 and 0.65 ± 0.67 mm radiographic bone gain around implants A and B, respectively. Histological analyses revealed that persisting soft tissue inflammation as assessed using an infiltrated connective tissue (ICT) score was significantly lower at implant type B than at implant type A for all treatment groups. The test decontamination procedures did not demonstrate better results regarding resolution of peri‐implantitis lesions, as indicated by the ICT scores, than the control procedure. The control treatment resulted in significantly superior outcomes of resolution of peri‐implantitis lesions than the citric acid regimen.

Conclusions

It is concluded that decontamination procedures including citric acid gel or rotating titanium brush did not improve outcomes following surgical treatment of experimental peri‐implantitis. Results were, however, influenced by the implant surface characteristics.
Effect of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists on fat distribution in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Duan Kaixin , Yan Xiaolu , Gao Zhe , Hou Yilin , Lv Xiuqin , Song Guangyao
Published: February 2022

Aims/Introduction

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1Ras) are widely used to treat type 2 diabetes. They not only reduce glucose, but also have a positive effect on weight loss. However, few studies have reported the effect of GLP‐1Ras on fat distribution.

Materials and Methods

PubMed, Cochrane, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for randomized controlled trials on GLP‐1Ras and type 2 diabetes, published from inception to June 2021. Our main outcomes were the reductions of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). Other anthropometric outcomes were also assessed. We used the Cochrane Collaboration tools to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation profiler version 3.6. Review Manager 5.4.1 and Stata 16.0 were used for data analysis.

Results

A total of 10 studies involving 541 patients were included. Compared with the control groups, the GLP‐1Ras groups showed reductions in VAT (standard mean difference −0.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.92, −0.17, I2 = 79%, P = 0.005) and SAT (standard mean difference −0.44, 95% CI −0.60, −0.27, I2 = 44%, P < 0.00001). In addition, bodyweight (weighted mean difference −3.59, 95% CI −4.30, −2.88, I2 = 0%, P < 0.00001), waist circumference (weighted mean difference −3.09, 95% CI −4.66, −1.52, I2 = 70%, P = 0.0001) and body mass index (weighted mean difference −1.11, 95% CI −1.35, −0.86, I2 = 47%, P < 0.00001) were significantly decreased. According to the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach, the level of evidence was low or moderate.

Conclusion

This study highlights that GLP‐1Ras, especially liraglutide and exenatide, might play an active role in fat distribution in patients with type 2 diabetes. After treatment with GLP‐1Ras, both VAT and SAT decreased, and the decrease of VAT was numerically greater than that of SAT.
Attitudes towards open‐label versus placebo‐control designs in oncology randomized trials: A survey of medical oncologists
Authors: Kushnir Igal , Clemons Mark , Fergusson Dean , Bossé Dominick , Reaume Martin Neil
Published: February 2022

Rationale, Aims and Objectives

Randomized trials are considered the gold standard when assessing the efficacy of new therapeutic agents. In clinical situations where no standard of care therapy is approved, randomized trials usually compare experimental agents to either a placebo or an open‐label nonintervention arm (i.e., best supportive care). We surveyed Canadian medical oncologists to understand their attitudes towards each design.

Methods

Members of the Canadian Association of Medical Oncologists were invited to participate in an anonymous online survey. Standardized case scenarios were used to determine participants' attitudes regarding the role of open‐label versus placebo‐controlled trials.

Results

A total of 322 medical oncologists and trainees were invited to participate and 86 responded (response rate 27%). Fifty‐one (59%) believed that open‐label trials are an acceptable alternative to placebo‐controlled design when investigating a therapeutic agent in the adjuvant setting. Thirty‐eight (49%) deemed it acceptable to compare the investigational agent to an open‐label arm instead of a placebo to assess progression‐free survival in the metastatic setting. Twenty‐eight (38%) of respondents felt that open‐label design was acceptable when assessing the quality of life endpoint. Most physicians were unsure whether the US Food and Drug Administration require a placebo‐controlled arm in oncology trials.

Conclusion

Canadian medical oncologists participating in this survey are divided in their opinions regarding the acceptability of an open‐label design in randomized‐controlled trials, where no standard therapy is approved. Clearer guidance from regulatory bodies on the adequacy of different trial designs is needed.
Phylogenetic position of Trichomycterus astromycterus (Siluriformes: Trichomycteridae), an enigmatic trichomycterid from eastern Brazil, inferred from molecular data
Authors: Vilardo Paulo J. , Katz Axel M. , Costa Wilson J. E. M.
Published: February 2022

Recently in this journal, a new trichomycterine from eastern Brazil, Trichomycterus astromycterus, was described and considered possibly related to the Chilean Bullockia maldonadoi due to morphological similarities. Subsequently, osteological data supported T. astromycterus in the subgenus Psammocambeva of Trichomycterus, from eastern Brazil. Phylogenetic analyses, performed here, using a multigene data set for a broad trichomycterine sample, corroborate T. astromycterus as a member of Psammocambeva, reinforcing the importance of molecular data for inferring trichomycterine relationships but showing that osteological data alone may infer correctly phylogenetic placements when using broad comparative databases.
Managing residual flood risk behind levees: Comparing USA, France, and Quebec (Canada)
Authors: Serra‐Llobet Anna , Tourment Rémy , Montané Antonin , Buffin‐Belanger Thomas
Published: February 2022

Although hydraulic infrastructure such as levees remain important for flood risk management in the USA, France, and Quebec (Canada), there is increasing emphasis on nonstructural measures, such as regulatory flood maps, to reduce exposure and vulnerability, for example, preventing people from building in high hazard areas. One key concept related to areas protected by levees is that of “residual risk”, that is, the risk from floods greater than the design standard of the levees (levee overtopping) and from levee breach. In this article, we review the legislative framework for regulatory flood maps in the USA, France, and Quebec (Canada) and compare how residual risk behind protective structures is taken into account (or not) in regulatory flood maps. We find big differences in how the USA, France and Canada manage residual risk behind the levees. While in France the area behind levees is part of the regulatory flood prone area, and land use restrictions, building codes, emergency measures and risk communication are mandatory, in the USA the area behind levees is only shown as part of the regulatory flood prone area if the levee is not accredited. In Quebec, regulatory flood maps in general follow the French approach with a few exceptions.
Factors associated with the reporting of Down syndrome as the underlying cause of death on US death certificates
Authors: Landes S. D. , Turk M. A. , Finan J. M.
Published: February 2022

Background

Efforts aimed at preventing premature mortality for people with Down syndrome are hindered by the practice of reporting disability as the underlying cause of death. Prior research suggests this form of diagnostic overshadowing may be the result of increased uncertainty surrounding the death.

Methods

This study uses bivariable analysis and multivariable logistic regression models to investigate associations between sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, and death context and processing characteristics with the reporting of Down syndrome as the underlying cause of death in 2005–2017 US Multiple Cause of Death data files.

Results

The reporting of Down syndrome as the underlying cause of death was associated with characteristics indicative of an increased amount of uncertainty surrounding the death. Results also suggest other mechanisms may inform inaccurate reporting, such as racial bias, and the continued conflation of disability and health.

Conclusions

Medical personnel certifying death certificates should strive for accuracy when reporting the causes of death. To ensure this outcome, even in the midst of increased uncertainty, Down syndrome should not be reported as the underlying cause of death unless the decedent was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or unspecified dementia. Future research should further explore the possibility that increased death certification errors for adults with Down syndrome, or other developmental disabilities, are associated with racial bias.
Risk factors for pressure ulcers in adult patients: A meta‐analysis on sociodemographic factors and the Braden scale
Authors: Chung Man‐Long , Widdel Manuel , Kirchhoff Julian , Sellin Julia , Jelali Mohieddine , Geiser Franziska , Mücke Martin , Conrad Rupert
Published: February 2022

Aims and objectives

Providing the first meta‐analysis of risk factors for pressure ulcer development in adult patients.

Background

Pressure ulcers remain a serious health complication for patients and nursing staff. However, there is a lack of statistical evidence for risk factors as previous research did not include any quantitative synthesis.

Design

Meta‐analysis, using PRISMA guidelines.

Methods

Studies from PubMed, Embase, CINAHL Complete, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and other reviews and sources were screened and checked against the inclusion criteria. The risk of bias was evaluated using a slightly modified QUIPS tool. Data regarding population, design, statistical analysis and risk factors were extracted. Meta‐analysis with comparable studies was conducted for age, sex, and Braden scale. The sub‐group analysis was used to account for heterogeneity.

Results

28 studies with 570,162 patients were entered in meta‐analysis. Older age and a low total Braden scale score increased the risk for pressure ulcers. All subscales excluding ‘moisture’ reached significance in meta‐analysis based only on few studies, however, limiting overall evidence. Male sex achieved mixed results, too.

Conclusion

The first meta‐analytic analysis shows evidence for age and Braden scale as risk factors for pressure ulcer development. Limitations regarding study quality and heterogeneity must be considered, highlighting the need for unifying certain conditions in risk factor research.

Relevance to clinical practice

Patients at risk for new pressure ulcers can be identified by their total Braden score and age, whereas the latter is also connected to deeper pressure ulcers. Nurses and health personnel should pay great attention to patients in older age and undergo specific training to utilise and evaluate the Braden scale effectively, if necessary.
The Potential for Teacher‐Student Relationships and the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child Model to Mitigate Adverse Childhood Experiences
Authors: Keane Kevin , Evans Retta R.
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with poorer health and educational outcomes. With over 20% of children experiencing multiple ACEs, interventions must target protective factors to improve outcomes among these students. Teacher‐student relationships (TSRs) integrated with the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) are one promising approach to building resilience to overcome ACEs.

METHODS

A narrative literature review was conducted on ACEs, resilience, TSRs, and the WSCC model to explore the evidence and potential of TSR interventions integrated within the WSCC model to build resilience in students experiencing ACEs.

RESULTS

Supportive adult relationships are one of the strongest protective factors against ACEs. TSR interventions have improved student and relationship outcomes. Few studies have explored the relationship between TSRs and ACEs or TSR ACEs interventions. The WSCC model provides opportunities to integrate TSRs and other protective factors into a schoolwide health model to build resilience.

CONCLUSIONS

TSRs and the WSCC model are promising approaches to target protective factors to mitigate ACEs. Research is needed to further establish TSRs as a protective factor, explore TSR ACEs interventions, and determine best practices for integrating TSRs and resilience in the WSCC model.
Travel burden in a rural primary care behavioral weight loss randomized trial: Impact on visit attendance and weight loss
Authors: Kurz Daniel , Befort Christie
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Rural residents have higher obesity rates and need access to treatment. Travel burden may limit use and effectiveness of clinic‐based behavioral weight loss treatment, which includes frequent visits. This paper examines the impact of travel distance and time on visit attendance and weight loss during a 2‐year cluster randomized trial.

Methods

Thirty‐six primary care practices were randomized to 1 of 3 methods of providing behavioral weight loss counseling: individual clinic visits, group clinic visits, or group phone visits. Participants in the clinic visit conditions were included in this secondary analysis (n = 875). Travel distance and time was measured using ArcGIS and categorized as <15 miles (and minutes) or ≥15 miles (and minutes). Percent visit attendance and percent weight loss were measured 6 and 24 months.

Findings

Participants traveling ≥15 miles (n = 211) had lower attendance than those traveling <15 miles (n = 664) for individual clinic visits, both in the first 6 months (81.4% vs 89.1%, respectively; P = .005) and between 7 and 24 months (52.8% vs 61.6%, respectively; P = .02). Travel time revealed similar findings. Neither travel distance nor time had an effect on attendance to group clinic visits. Travel distance and time were not significantly associated with weight loss for either individual or group visits.

Conclusion

Travel burden to clinics was associated with visit attendance for individual visits but not for group visits and was not significantly associated with weight loss. Assessment of travel burden as a potential barrier to clinic‐based weight loss interventions should be based on local empirical data.
The surface mechanics of cooked rice as influenced by gastric fluids measured using a micro texture analyzer
Authors: Lv Boya , Wu Peng , Chen Xiao Dong
Published: February 2022

In this study, a micro texture analyzer (MTA) was employed to explore the texture characteristics of the surface of an individual steamed rice (SR) and fried rice (FR) grain exhibited in four simulated digestion environments in vitro. The elastic modulus, hardness and elastic index of the single cooked rice particle were measured using the MTA. The hardness of SR particles decreased by 66, 81, 89.1, and 95% after simulated digestion in distilled water, HCl, simulated gastric fluid (SGF), and simulated salivary and gastric fluid (SSF + SGF), respectively. This is in line with the most significant volume expansion and structure ruptures when digested in SSF + SGF. Similar mechanical and structural behaviors were shown for FR, but the hardness and elastic modulus decreased less than those of SR under the same digestion conditions. The different surface mechanics are consistent with the reduced expansion and more compact structure with smaller voids in FR during in vitro digestion. This could be attributed to the encapsulation by frying oil on the surface that would retard the diffusion of digestive fluids into the rice kernels. A weak negative correlation was found between the elastic modulus and the moisture content of the cooked rice. The present study has quantitatively assessed the surface mechanics of cooked rice as influenced by gastric fluids using the MTA. This is practically meaningful for gaining an in‐depth understanding of the influence of textural modifications on disintegration of solid foods and release of nutrients during digestion.
Significance of milling methods on brown teff flour, dough, and bread properties
Authors: Pulivarthi Manoj Kumar , Selladurai Manivannan , Nkurikiye Eric , Li Yonghui , Siliveru Kaliramesh
Published: February 2022

Teff (Eragrostis tef) has gained wide popularity mainly attributed to its gluten‐free nature catering the needs of gluten‐sensitive population. The higher water absorption capacity and gelling properties of teff flour promote its food applications, especially in the baking sector. The nutritional and sensorial properties of teff flour have been studied by incorporating with wheat flour at different proportions, but no study has reported the impact of various milling methods on the rheological and bread‐making properties of teff flour. In this regard, the present study is envisaged to assess the physical, rheological, and bread‐making properties of teff flour acquired over roller, hammer, and pin milling. Among the milling methods, the distribution of particles was more uniform in case of roller mill, while finer particles were obtained for the pin milled flour fractions with 60% of the sample falling below 90 μm. It was observed that the protein, crude fiber, and crude fat contents for all the flours were on par with each other irrespective of the milling method. Whereas, the pasting properties varied significantly between the flours obtained from different milling methods. It was observed that the pin milled flour bread was superior in quality owing to its higher loaf volume (331.67 cm3) with lower hardness value (5.99 N). The present study indicates the fact that pin mill could be more suitable for milling brown teff grains owing to the better pasting and bread‐making properties.
Re‐Thinking The Re‐Thinking of Origen: The Spirit of Hans Urs Von Balthasar’s Theodramatic Hermeneutics☆
Authors: Martin Jennifer Newsome
Published: February 2022

This article explores Hans Urs von Balthasar’s procedure for retrieving—even reperforming—the “spirit” of the patristics in general and of Origen in particular within the context of a primarily aesthetic approach to the theology of history. It suggests—borrowing categories from Origen’s tripartite scheme of interpreting the scriptures—that Balthasar’s creative reception of Origen is reducible neither to transmitting the content of specific texts or ideas (“body”) nor a pragmatic, intellectual, or moral adoption of his philosophical or theological method (“soul”) but rather is an aesthetic, dramatic re‐performance or mimetic inhabiting of Origen’s “spirit” through modes of contemplative biblical exegesis which are spiritually and existentially transformative.
Quality improvement intervention to stimulate early mobilisation of critically ill children
Authors: Adel Tabitha Zanen‐van den , van Dijk Monique , de Heer Mariska , Hoekstra Sjoukje , Steenhorst Judith , van Rosmalen Joost , Verbruggen Sascha , Toussaint‐Duyster Leontien , Ista Erwin
Published: February 2022

Background

Immobility during hospital stay is associated with muscle weakness, delirium, and delayed neurocognitive recovery. Early mobilisation of critically ill adults improves their physical functioning and shortens the duration of mechanical ventilation. However, comparable research in children is lacking.

Aims

To determine the effects of the implementation of an early mobilisation (EM) program on mobility activities for critically ill children and to explore barriers and facilitators and clinical outcomes before and after implementation.

Study design

A prospective single‐centre before‐and‐after study. This study was conducted in a PICU of a large tertiary hospital. Children aged from 3 months to 18 years, with an expected stay of ≥3 days were eligible to participate. In the “before” phase, participants received usual care; in the “after” phase we implemented a multicomponent, multidisciplinary EM protocol. The primary outcome was a change in the process outcome “mobilisation activities”. Secondary outcomes were PICU staff opinions on mobilisation (survey), safety, process measures, involvement of parents and physical therapist, and clinical outcomes (sedative use and prevalence of delirium).

Results

A total of 113 children were included; 55 before and 58 after, with a median age of 31 months (IQR: 10–103) and 35 months (IQR: 7–152), respectively. The number of mobilisation activities (per patient per day) had significantly increased from 5 (IQR: 2–7) to 6 (IQR: 4–8) (U = 272185.0; p < .001). PT consultations for mobilisation had significantly increased from 23.6% (13/55) to 46.5% (27/58) (X2 = 6.48; p = .011). In both phases, no mobilisation‐related adverse events were documented. The survey showed that PICU staff found EM of critically ill children useful and feasible. In the after phase, PICU staff rated the perceived benefit of the support of the physical therapist during mobilisation activities significantly higher than in the before phase (X2 = 34.80; p < .001).

Conclusions

Implementation of a structured EM program for critically ill children is feasible and safe.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is suggested to start the implementation of a structed EM program with the idendentification of local barriers and facilitators by an interdisciplinary PICU team. Further, an increased presence of physiotherapists on the PICU would improve mobilisation levels, and facilitate mobilisation in critically ill children. Also, they can support and advice PICU nurses and parents in mobilising children.
Resistance training effectiveness on body composition and body weight outcomes in individuals with overweight and obesity across the lifespan: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lopez Pedro , Taaffe Dennis R. , Galvão Daniel A. , Newton Robert U. , Nonemacher Elisa R. , Wendt Victória M. , Bassanesi Renata N. , Turella Douglas J. P. , Rech Anderson
Published: February 2022

To systematically review and analyze the effects of resistance‐based exercise programs on body composition, regional adiposity, and body weight in individuals with overweight/obesity across the lifespan. Using PRISMA guidelines, randomized controlled trials were searched in nine electronic databases up to December 2020. Meta‐analyses were performed using random‐effects model. One‐hundred sixteen articles describing 114 trials (n = 4184 participants) were included. Interventions involving resistance training and caloric restriction were the most effective for reducing body fat percentage (ES = −3.8%, 95% CI: −4.7 to −2.9%, p < 0.001) and whole‐body fat mass (ES = −5.3 kg, 95% CI: −7.2 to −3.5 kg, p < 0.001) compared with groups without intervention. Significant results were also observed following combined resistance and aerobic exercise (ES = −2.3% and −1.4 kg, p < 0.001) and resistance training alone (ES = −1.6% and −1.0 kg, p < 0.001) compared with no training controls. Resistance training alone was the most effective for increasing lean mass compared with no training controls (ES = 0.8 kg, 95% CI: 0.6 to 1.0 kg, p < 0.001), whereas lean mass was maintained following interventions involving resistance training and caloric restriction (ES = ~ − 0.3 kg, p = 0.550–0.727). Results were consistently observed across age and sex groups (p = 0.001–0.011). Reductions in regional adiposity and body weight measures were also observed following combined resistance and aerobic exercise and programs including caloric restriction (p < 0.001). In conclusion, this study provides evidence that resistance‐based exercise programs are effective and should be considered within any multicomponent therapy program when caloric restriction is utilized in individuals with overweight or obesity.
The Effect of Maternal Education on Child Mortality in Bangladesh
Authors: Wu Hanbo
Published: February 2022

This paper examines the effect of maternal education on child mortality in Bangladesh by exploiting quasi‐experimental variations in the duration of exposure to a school stipend project for identification. Results from the instrumental variable estimation indicate that an additional year of maternal schooling reduces both under‐five and infant mortality by about 20 percent. The findings are statistically significant and robust to a number of model specifications, including survival models controlling for right censoring of child mortality. Analysis of potential mechanisms suggests that maternal education reduces child mortality through greater wealth and literacy, positive assortative mating, lower fertility, delayed marriage and childbearing, greater health‐related knowledge, better health‐seeking behaviors, and female empowerment, but not through female employment.
STAYGREEN‐mediated chlorophyll a catabolism is critical for photosystem stability during heat‐induced leaf senescence in perennial ryegrass
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Hui , Huang Xinru , Xing Jing , Yao Jiaming , Yin Tingchao , Jiang Jiafu , Wang Puchang , Xu Bin
Published: February 2022

Suppression of the chlorophyll a (Chl a) Mg‐dechelatase gene, SGR/NYE1, blocks the degradation of Chl a, resulting in a ‘stay‐green’ trait. In this study, we investigated the effect of Chl a catabolism on plant heat‐induced leaf senescence in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). Under heat stress, the LpSGR‐RNAi lines not only lost the stay‐green phenotype but also showed accelerated leaf senescence with increased chloroplast disruption, more loss of photosystem (PS) proteins, lower PSⅡ quantum yields, higher levels of energy dissipation, increased accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lower ROS‐scavenging enzyme activities. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the suppression of LpSGR downregulated genes encoding PS proteins and ROS‐scavenging enzymes and upregulated those encoding ROS‐generation enzymes under heat stress. To account for the possible side‐effects resulting from constitutive suppression of LpSGR on plant growth and heat tolerance, we constructed an ethanol‐inducible RNAi vector to suppress LpSGR functions. In the absence of ethanol induction, these lines exhibited the same growth and heat tolerance as the wildtype (WT). Upon ethanol induction, the transgenic lines showed compromised heat tolerance and a postharvest stay‐green phenotype. Taken together, SGR‐mediated Chl a catabolism is required for plant heat tolerance.
The moderating effect of facial emotion recognition in maternal emotion socialization and child socioemotional adjustment
Authors: Song Qingfang , Smiley Patricia A. , Doan Stacey N.
Published: February 2022

The current study investigated relations among maternal emotion socialization, children's facial emotion recognition (FER), and children's behavioral problems. A sample of 118 preschoolers (Mage = 41.96 months) and their mothers participated. Mothers reported their reactions to children's negative emotions and rated children's internalizing and externalizing problems by completing the Coping with Children's Negative Emotions Scale and Child Behavior Checklist, respectively. Children's FER was assessed with a task that involved matching emotion labels to facial expressions. Results revealed that FER moderated the association between minimizing/punitive maternal reactions and children's externalizing problems. Minimizing/punitive maternal reactions were found to positively correlate with externalizing problems in children with lower levels of FER, but not among children with high levels of FER. Exploratory analyses with child gender also suggested that the moderating effect of FER in the relation between minimizing/punitive maternal reactions and children's internalizing problems applied only to boys, not to girls. The results highlight the importance of children's FER and gender, in addition to maternal reactions to expressed emotion, in shaping their socioemotional adjustment.
Detection of a characteristic beta‐2 peak in serum by capillary zone electrophoresis in dogs with Angiostrongylus vasorum
Authors: Bertazzolo Walter , Didier Martine , Ridolfi Mattia , Venco Luigi
Published: February 2022

Background

Angiostrongylosis is an emerging canine parasitic disease that often causes polyclonal hyperglobulinemia. In the authors' experience, we have seen what could be a typical serum protein electrophoretic pattern characterized by a large, symmetrical beta‐2 peak in dogs with angiostrongylosis.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency of this pattern in dogs infected with Angiostrongylus vasorum compared with a randomly selected canine population.

Methods

Serum protein capillary zone electrophoreses (CZEs) from dogs with angiostrongylosis were assigned to Group 1. The CZE pattern was classified as normal, nonspecific polyclonal, or polyclonal with a typical beta‐2 peak. The frequency of this latter pattern in Group 1 was compared with the frequency of similar findings in a randomly selected canine sera group (Group 2).

Results

Groups 1 and 2 included 22 and 3687 cases, respectively. Thirteen of 22 (59.1%) dogs in Group 1 had this peak in the beta‐2 region. A similar CZE pattern was observed in 43 dogs in Group 2 (1.2%). The remaining dogs in Group 1 had a nonspecific polyclonal hyperglobulinemia (six cases), a normal tracing (one case), or an ambiguous tracing (two cases).

Conclusions

Dogs with angiostrongylosis commonly have polyclonal hyperglobulinemia, frequently characterized by a large and symmetrical beta‐2 peak on CZE, which is uncommon in the canine population. Additional studies are needed to identify the protein composition of this peculiar beta fraction.
Transfusion double whammy? Adrenaline‐takotsubo‐anaphylaxis‐Kounis complex post transfusion?
Authors: Badami Krishna G.
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives

The adrenaline‐takotsubo‐anaphylaxis‐Kounis, or the ATAK complex, where there are clinical and pathophysiological overlaps between takotsubo and Kounis syndromes, in which histaminergic, adrenergic and other mediators may play roles, was recently described. The objective of this report was to describe three cases where the ATAK complex was suspected to have occurred after transfusion.

Materials and Methods

Three cases were recently reported to the New Zealand Blood Service haemovigilance programme that appeared to have features in common suggestive of the ATAK complex.

Results

All three patients had had a blood component transfused, an initial severe allergic reaction, treatment with adrenaline or a congener, subsequent acute left ventricular failure or transfusion‐associated circulatory overload, and features suggestive of takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

Conclusions

Although rarely described, transfusion‐associated ATAK complex may be occurring more often than believed. Circumstances during a transfusion may predispose to it. It should be suspected if the sequence of events described above occur. Its characteristics need to be better understood. Risk factors for it may be modifiable.
Determining Varying Levels of Cultural Competence in Athletic Trainers Compared to Other Healthcare Providers When Treating Lesbian or Gay Patients
Authors: Madrak Emily , Volberding Jennifer L. , Harris Ashley M.
Published: February 2022

The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, and ally or asexual cultural competence has become a point of emphasis in patient care in the profession of athletic training. The purpose of this study was to determine the level of cultural competence (CC) in athletic trainers (ATs) compared with other health care providers when treating lesbian/gay (L/G) patients as well as at which sexual orientation and gender demonstrated greater CC in L/G patients by using the Gay Affirmative Practice Scale. Health care providers include physicians, nurses, and mental health counselors (MHC). Statistical analysis comparing the occupations, sexual orientations, and gender, each in one-way analysis of variances, (including nonparametric modifications) demonstrated significant results for occupation, χ2(8) = 69.888, p < .05 and sexual orientation χ2(3) = 22.250, p < .05, indicating post hoc analyses. Post hoc demonstrated significance in occupation (AT and MHC, AT and nursing, and MHC and nursing) and sexual orientation (heterosexual and L/G). The result of these analyses provides evidence that ATs have less CC when caring for L/G patients compared with MHC and nursing. Finally, L/G providers demonstrate a greater CC than their counterparts, when caring for L/G patients.
Fibular Glide Mobilization With Movement for the Treatment of Acute Lateral Ankle Sprains: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Bonser Robert J. , Hansberger Bethany L. , Loutsch Rick A. , Gendron Christy L. , Baker Russell T.
Published: February 2022

What are the effects of the Mulligan Concept™ posterior fibular mobilization with movement (MWM) on clinical outcomes in patients who sustain an acute lateral ankle sprain (LAS)? The evidence reviewed was level C–Recommendation based on “consensus, usual practice, opinion, disease-oriented evidence, or case series for studies of diagnosis, treatment, prevention or screening.” In the studies examined, patients who received Mulligan Concept™ posterior fibular mobilizations in combination with other treatments significantly improved (Minimal Clinically Important Difference met) on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and Disablement of Physically Active (DPA) scale. All patients in the studies were discharged within 2-18 days. However, due to the low level of evidence and the use of traditional conservative treatments in conjunction with mobilization, it is difficult to ascertain whether the Mulligan LAS treatment aided recovery more than traditional methods of treating acute LAS. Therefore, Mulligan Concept™ posterior fibular MWM may be useful clinically in conjunction with traditional conservative treatments for reduction of pain, disability and discharge time for patients with acute LAS, but future research must be conducted to determine if MWMs offer any benefits above and beyond traditional methods of treatment.
Impact of Microcycle Structures on Physical and Technical Outcomes During Professional Rugby League Training and Matches
Authors: Eggers Tahleya , Cross Rebecca , Norris Dean , Wilmot Lachlan , Lovell Ric
Published: February 2022

Purpose: To assess the impact of microcycle (MC) structures on physical and technical performances in rugby league training and matches. Methods: Thirty-four professional rugby league players were monitored during all training sessions and matches across a single season wherein 2 different competition-phase MC structures were implemented. The first MC structure involved the first session on match day (MD) + 2 and the main stimulus delivered MD − 3, and the second structure delayed all sessions by 1 day (first session on MD + 3 and main session MD − 2; MC structure in the second half of the season). Physical output was quantified via relative total speed (in meters per minute), high-speed running (per minute; ≥4.0 m·s−1), and very-high-speed running (per minute; ≥5.5 m·s−1), measured using a global positioning system (10 Hz) in addition to accelerometer (100 Hz) metrics (PlayerLoad per minute and PlayerLoadslow per minute]) during training and matches. Technical performance (number of runs, meters gained, tackles made and missed) was recorded during matches. Generalized linear mixed models and equivalence tests were used to identify the impact of MC structure on physical and technical output. Results: Nonequivalent increases in meters per minute, high-speed running per minute, and PlayerLoad per minute were observed for the first training stimulus in MC structure in the second half of the season with no practical difference in midcycle sessions observed. The MC structure in the second half of the season structure resulted in increased high-speed running per minute and decreased PlayerLoadslow per minute during MD with no differences observed in technical performance. Conclusions: Delaying the first training stimulus of the MC allowed for greater training load accumulation without negative consequences in selected match running and technical performance measures. This increased MC load may support the maintenance of physical capacities across the in-season.
Sport, Activism, and Ethics: Historiographical Perspectives
Authors: Booth Douglas
Published: February 2022

Athletes have long been activists, but the historical presentation and understanding of that activism is complex, constantly shifting, and wrought with contradictions and paradoxes. In this article, I call attention to facts and narratives around social justice, including how kinesiology and its subdisciplines embrace and afford opportunities to women and racial and ethnic minorities and casts them in their visions for the future. Neither raw statistics of (under- or over-) representation nor promises of a brighter future are likely to have any impact or contribute to understanding until they are presented in coherent narratives that include, or are preferably created by, affected voices. Only when kinesiology is producing a critical volume of these narratives can it truly claim to be contributing to social justice.
The Small DdrR Protein Directly Interacts with the UmuDAb Regulator of the Mutagenic DNA Damage Response in Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Pavlin Anja , Bajc Gregor , Fornelos Nadine , Browning Douglas F. , Butala Matej
Published: February 2022

We previously identified a 50-residue bacteriophage protein, gp7, which interacts with and modulates the function of the LexA transcription factor from
Bacillus thuringiensis
. Here, we present data that indicates that the small DdrR protein from
A. baumannii
likely coordinates the SOS response and prophage processes by also interacting with LexA superfamily members.