bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertical plants: Plant design of Living walls – evaluation of 34 perennials in a textile based Living wall over a three years experiment
Authors: Stollberg Maren , von Birgelen Alexander
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Urban green can be complemented by Living walls (LW). Knowledge of LW, including technique or their cooling effects, is well discussed, but little published data on plant diversity, design and development in LWs exists. The plants themselves determine whether LWs achieve their intended benefits. However, LW plants are exposed to extreme conditions such as temperature or drought stress.

Material and methods

Therefore, we observed plant development in a textile-based LW (mat) over a three-year experiment under a temperate oceanic climate in the south west of Germany. The aim was to establish higher plant diversity for use in LWs. We chose 34 perennials (shrubs, ferns, grasses, and geophytes) that require high soil moisture. The mat was soil-free and had to be overwatered with a nutrient solution. The perennials were grouped in the plant module “cascade” (tall, hanging plants) and “ground cover” (low-spreading plants). We created four experimental walls exposed to the south, north, west, and east and adapted the plant modules to the lighting conditions of the experiment wall. The modules were pre-cultivated and attached to the experimental walls in a randomised design and repetition of four. We determined the visual attractiveness and additional parameters of individual plants.

Results

We observed that Tellima grandiflora ‘Rubra’, Waldsteinia ternata, Pachysandra terminalis, and Heuchera Hybride ‘Purple Petticoats’ were the most attractive all year. Ajuga tenorii ‘Mauro’, Alchemilla caucasica, Hosta sieboldii ‘Harry van Trier’, Glechoma hederacea, and Geum coccineum ‘Carlskaer’ showed a nice ornamental effect and flowering during summer. The ferns and Waldsteinia ternata showed delayed growth but nice leaf texture gradually.

Discussion and conclusion

We saw differences in winter survival rates depending on minimum temperature in winter. The tested plants developed a special vertical growth form and height. We observed various results at different expositions but found suitable species for each exposition. With these results, we derived a table of plants along with their suitability for LWs and determining conditions.
Progress in the study of biomarkers for early prediction of systemic inflammatory response syndrome after percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Authors: Wu Wangjian , Zhang Di , Jin Tongtong , Lu Tianyi , Zhou Fenghai
Published: March 2023

Urolithiasis is a common and frequent disease in urology. Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is preferred for the treatment of upper urinary tract stones and complicated renal stones >2 cm in diameter, but it has a higher rate of postoperative complications, especially infection, compared with other minimally invasive treatments for urinary stones. Complications associated with infection after percutaneous nephrolithotomy include transient fever, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), and sepsis, which is considered one of the most common causes of perioperative death after percutaneous nephrolithotomy. In contrast, SIRS serves as a sentinel for sepsis, so early intervention of SIRS by biomarker identification can reduce the incidence of postoperative sepsis, which in turn reduces the length of stay and hospital costs for patients. In this paper, we summarize traditional inflammatory indicators, novel inflammatory indicators, composite inflammatory indicators and other biomarkers for early identification of systemic inflammatory response syndrome after percutaneous nephrolithotomy.
Added value of including waves into a coupled atmosphere–ocean model system within the North Sea area
Authors: Grayek Sebastian , Wiese Anne , Ho-Hagemann Ha Thi Minh , Staneva Joanna
Published: March 2023

In this study, the effects of fully coupling the atmosphere, waves, and ocean compared with two-way-coupled simulations of either atmosphere and waves or atmosphere and ocean are analyzed. Two-year-long simulations (2017 and 2018) are conducted using the atmosphere–ocean–wave (AOW) coupled system consisting of the atmosphere model CCLM, the wave model WAM, and the ocean model NEMO. Furthermore, simulations with either CCLM and WAM or CCLM and NEMO are done in order to estimate the impacts of including waves or the ocean into the system. For the North Sea area, it is assessed whether the influence of the coupling of waves and ocean on the atmosphere varies throughout the year and whether the waves or the ocean have the dominant effect on the atmospheric model. It is found that the effects of adding the waves into the system already consisting of atmosphere and ocean model or adding the ocean to the system of atmosphere and wave model vary throughout the year. Which component has a dominant effect and whether the effects enhance or diminish each other depends on the season and variable considered. For the wind speed, during the storm season, adding the waves has the dominant effect on the atmosphere, whereas during summer, adding the ocean has a larger impact. In summer, the waves and the ocean have similar influences on mean sea level pressure (MSLP). However, during the winter months, they have the opposite effect. For the air temperature at 2 m height (T_2m), adding the ocean impacts the atmosphere all year around, whereas adding the waves mainly influences the atmosphere during summer. This influence, however, is not a straight feedback by the waves to the atmosphere, but the waves affect the ocean surface temperature, which then also feedbacks to the atmosphere. Therefore, in this study we identified a season where the atmosphere is affected by the interaction between the waves and the ocean. Hence, in the AOW-coupled simulation with all three components involved, processes can be represented that uncoupled models or model systems consisting of only two models cannot depict.
Palestinian physicians’ self-reported practice regarding antibiotic use for upper respiratory tract infections in primary healthcare
Authors: Maraqa Bessan , Nazzal Zaher , Hamshari Suha , Matani Nardine , Assi Yasmeen , Aabed Mousa , Alameri Furqan
Published: March 2023

Background

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial therapy knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary care physicians in the West Bank and Gaza.

Methods

Between January and April 2021, this cross-sectional survey was conducted. A link to the online survey was sent via confidential email lists to 336 primary care physicians who treated patients in Ministry of Health clinics. The survey questions scoring system was devised in order to evaluate the physicians’ practice, knowledge, and attitudes. Our scoring system identified favorable (good) and unfavorable (average and poor) antibiotic practices. In addition to independent t-test, the Chi-square test was used to compare the two groups of physicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices with their background characteristics. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify potential confounding variables having significant relationships.

Results

Of the 336 distributed questionnaires, 316 were completed, with a response rate of 94%. More than half (54.7%) were males, half (51.6%) were between 30 and 45 years of age, and most were general practitioners (74.1%). The overall good knowledge and attitude scores were 125 (39.6%) and 194 (61.4%), respectively. More than half (58.2%) had good antibiotic prescription practices. Females reported significantly more favorable practices than males, as did family medicine specialists compared with general practitioners. Finally, knowledge about antibiotic prescriptions had a substantial impact on changing their practices. However, physicians’ attitudes toward antibiotic prescriptions did not have a significant role in shaping their practices.

Conclusion

Overuse of antibiotics is a significant health issue in Palestine and worldwide. Most physicians know that improper antibiotic usage can cause antimicrobial resistance. More than two-thirds avoided needless antimicrobial prescriptions. In practicing antimicrobial stewardship, most prescribed fewer antibiotics and did not prescribe because of patient pressure. Family medicine specialists, female doctors, and those with high knowledge scores regardless of caseload were more likely to have good practices.
Proof-of-concept study of compartmentalized lung ventilation using system for asymmetric flow regulation (SAFR)
Authors: Barjaktarevic Igor , Meyerowitz Glen , Williams Onike , Emeruwa I. Obi , Hoftman Nir
Published: March 2023

Asymmetrical distribution of acute lung injury in mechanically ventilated patients can result in a heterogeneity of gas distribution between different regions, potentially worsening ventilation-perfusion matching. Furthermore, overdistension of healthier, more compliant lung regions can lead to barotrauma and limit the effect of increased PEEP on lung recruitment. We propose a System for Asymmetric Flow Regulation (SAFR) which, combined with a novel double lumen endobronchial tube (DLT) may offer individualized lung ventilation to the left and right lungs, better matching each lung's mechanics and pathophysiology. In this preclinical experimental model, the performance of SAFR on gas distribution in a two-lung simulation system was tested. Our results indicate that SAFR may be a technically feasible and potentially clinically useful although further research is warranted.
Attenuation of quorum sensing system and virulence in Vibrio cholerae by phytomolecules
Authors: Saha Subhasree , Aggarwal Shifu , Singh Durg Vijai
Published: March 2023

The Vibrio cholerae, a gram-negative bacterium, is the causative agent of cholera. Quorum sensing is a cell-to-cell communication that leads to gene expression, accumulation of signaling molecules, biofilm formation, and production of virulence factors. The quorum sensing pathway in V. cholerae is regulated by luxO, and biofilm formation and other virulence factors are positively controlled by aphA and negatively by hapR. Hence, targeting the global regulator luxO would be a promising approach to modulate the QS to curtail V. cholerae pathogenesis. The present study investigated the modulating activity of quercetin and naringenin on biofilm formation and quorum-sensing regulated phenotypes in V. cholerae. Then after we determined the anti-quorum sensing capability of phytomolecules against the model organism Chromobacterium violaceum. Also, we performed flow cytometry for live/dead bacteria, MTT assay, CLSM, and growth curve analysis to determine their role as QS modulators rather than anti-bacterial. V. cholerae strains VC287 and N16961 formed thick biofilm. We observed a two-fold reduction in the expression of biofilm-associated genes comprising gbpA, vpsA, rbmA, and mbaA in the presence of phytomolecules indicating that phytomolecules modulate quorum sensing pathway rather than killing the bacteria. These phytomolecules were non-toxic and non-hemolytic and had anti-adhesion and anti-invasion properties. In addition, quercetin and naringenin were found to be highly effective compared to known quorum-sensing inhibitors terrein and furanone C-30. Thus, this study provides evidence that phytomolecules: quercetin and naringenin modulate the quorum-sensing pathway rather than killing the bacteria and can be used as an anti-quorum-sensing molecule for therapy against the pathogen.
Sex and gender considerations in Alzheimer’s disease: The Women’s Brain Project contribution
Authors: Castro-Aldrete Laura , Moser Michele V. , Putignano Guido , Ferretti Maria Teresa , Schumacher Dimech Annemarie , Santuccione Chadha Antonella
Published: March 2023

The global population is expected to have about 131.5 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other dementias by 2050, posing a severe health crisis. Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that gradually impairs physical and cognitive functions. Dementia has a variety of causes, symptoms, and heterogeneity concerning the influence of sex on prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes. The proportion of male-to-female prevalence varies based on the type of dementia. Despite some types of dementia being more common in men, women have a greater lifetime risk of developing dementia. AD is the most common form of dementia in which approximately two-thirds of the affected persons are women. Profound sex and gender differences in physiology and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions have increasingly been identified. As a result, new approaches to dementia diagnosis, care, and patient journeys should be considered. In the heart of a rapidly aging worldwide population, the Women’s Brain Project (WBP) was born from the necessity to address the sex and gender gap in AD. WBP is now a well-established international non-profit organization with a global multidisciplinary team of experts studying sex and gender determinants in the brain and mental health. WBP works with different stakeholders worldwide to help change perceptions and reduce sex biases in clinical and preclinical research and policy frameworks. With its strong female leadership, WBP is an example of the importance of female professionals’ work in the field of dementia research. WBP-led peer-reviewed papers, articles, books, lectures, and various initiatives in the policy and advocacy space have profoundly impacted the community and driven global discussion. WBP is now in the initial phases of establishing the world’s first Sex and Gender Precision Medicine Institute. This review highlights the contributions of the WBP team to the field of AD. This review aims to increase awareness of potentially important aspects of basic science, clinical outcomes, digital health, policy framework and provide the research community with potential challenges and research suggestions to leverage sex and gender differences. Finally, at the end of the review, we briefly touch upon our progress and contribution toward sex and gender inclusion beyond Alzheimer’s disease.
Uncovering tau in wasteosomes (corpora amylacea) of Alzheimer’s disease patients
Authors: Riba Marta , del Valle Jaume , Romera Clara , Alsina Raquel , Molina-Porcel Laura , Pelegrí Carme , Vilaplana Jordi
Published: March 2023

Brain corpora amylacea, recently renamed as wasteosomes, are polyglucosan bodies that appear during aging and some neurodegenerative conditions. They collect waste substances and are part of a brain cleaning mechanism. For decades, studies on their composition have produced inconsistent results and the presence of tau protein in them has been controversial. In this work, we reanalyzed the presence of this protein in wasteosomes and we pointed out a methodological problem when immunolabeling. It is well known that to detect tau it is necessary to perform an antigen retrieval. However, in the case of wasteosomes, an excessive antigen retrieval with boiling dissolves their polyglucosan structure, releases the entrapped proteins and, thus, prevents their detection. After performing an adequate pre-treatment, with an intermediate time of boiling, we observed that some brain wasteosomes from patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) contained tau, while we did not detect tau protein in those from non-AD patients. These observations pointed the different composition of wasteosomes depending on the neuropathological condition and reinforce the role of wasteosomes as waste containers.
Volumetric measurement of paranasal sinuses and its clinical significance in pituitary neuroendocrine tumors operated using an endoscopic endonasal approach
Authors: Nakaya Masato , Tamura Ryota , Takahara Kento , Senuma Takumi , Yoshida Keisuke , Kitamura Yohei , Ueda Ryo , Toda Masahiro
Published: March 2023

Objective

Endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) for deep intracranial lesions has gained popularity following recent developments in endoscopic technology. The operability of invasive pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) depends on the anatomy of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus. This study aimed to establish a simple volume reconstruction algorithm of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinus. Additionally, this is the first study to demonstrate the relationship between the segmentation method and the clinical significance in patients with PitNET.

Methods

Pre-and postoperative tumor volumes were analyzed in 106 patients with primary (new-onset) PitNETs (80 nonfunctioning and 26 functioning) who underwent EES. The efficiency and accuracy of the semiautomatic segmentation with manual adjustments (SSMA) method was compared with other established segmentation methods for volumetric analysis in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. Correlations between the measured nasal cavity and paranasal sinus volumes and the extent of tumor removal were evaluated.

Results

The SSMA method yielded accurate and time-saving results following the volumetric analyses of nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses with complex structures. Alternatively, the manual and semiautomatic segmentation methods proved time-consuming and inaccurate, respectively. The sphenoid sinus volume measured by SSMA was significantly correlated with the extent of tumor removal in patients with nonfunctioning Knosp grade 3 and 4 PitNET (r = 0.318; p = 0.015).

Conclusion

The volume of sphenoid sinus potentially could predict the extent of resection due to better visualization of the tumor for PitNETs with CS invasion.
Associations between vitamin D, immunoglobulin E concentrations, and obesity
Authors: Avila Castillo Angelica , Hagemann Tobias , Hoffmann Anne , Baber Ronny , Biemann Ronald , Wirkner Kerstin , Krupka Sontje , Stumvoll Michael , Blüher Matthias , Klöting Nora
Published: March 2023

The prevalence of allergies and obesity has been increased in parallel. Low vitamin D [25(OH)D] levels have been linked to both higher body mass index (BMI) and allergies. Since the activation of the 25(OH)D receptor inhibits IgE production and 25(OH)D influences the IgE response specifically, we tested the hypothesis that circulating 25(OH)D concentrations are negatively related to circulating allergen-specific IgE concentrations distinctly in a large adult population-based study cohort. Moreover, we studied VDR gene expression in paired biopsies of abdominal subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT). We investigated whether magnetic resonance imaging-estimated visceral (VFM) and subcutaneous fat mass (SFM) are related to 25(OH)D levels. We found gender differences in circulating 25(OH)D and IgE concentrations. Participants with obesity showed lower 25(OH)D concentrations and higher IgE concentrations were detected in women only. Interestingly, participants with high levels of 25(OH)D are leaner and have improved glucose metabolism. In women, 25(OH)D correlate significant with VFM and SFM. VDR expression is significantly higher expressed in VAT and is positive associated with circulating 25(OH)D concentration. There was no association between serum IgE and 25(OH)D in the entire cohort. Based on these data, we could confirm that low levels of 25(OH)D are linked to higher BMI but could not prove our hypothesis because there is no relationship between 25(OH)D and IgE in adults. Women with higher BMI tend to have higher IgE levels what may have clinical relevance. The association between obesity and circulating 25(OH)D/IgE is not straightforward, and further knowledge is needed.
Metagenomics by next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in the etiological characterization of neonatal and pediatric sepsis: A systematic review
Authors: Agudelo-Pérez Sergio , Fernández-Sarmiento Jaime , Rivera León Diana , Peláez Ronald Guillermo
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Pediatric and neonatal sepsis is one of the main causes of mortality and morbidity in these age groups. Accurate and early etiological identification is essential for guiding antibiotic treatment, improving survival, and reducing complications and sequelae. Currently, the identification is based on culture-dependent methods, which has many limitations for its use in clinical practice, and obtaining its results is delayed. Next-generation sequencing enables rapid, accurate, and unbiased identification of multiple microorganisms in biological samples at the same time. The objective of this study was to characterize the etiology of neonatal and pediatric sepsis by metagenomic techniques.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was carried out using the PRISMA-2020 guide. Observational, descriptive, and case report studies on pediatric patients were included, with a diagnostic evaluation by clinical criteria of sepsis based on the systemic inflammatory response, in sterile and non-sterile biofluid samples. The risk of bias assessment of the observational studies was carried out with the STROBE-metagenomics instrument and the CARE checklist for case reports.

Results and Discussion

Five studies with a total of 462 patients were included. Due to the data obtained from the studies, it was not possible to perform a quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis). Based on the data from the included studies, the result identified that mNGS improves the etiological identification in neonatal and pediatric sepsis, especially in the context of negative cultures and in the identification of unusual microorganisms (bacteria that are difficult to grow in culture, viruses, fungi, and parasites). The number of investigations is currently limited, and the studies are at high risk of bias. Further research using this technology would have the potential to improve the rational use of antibiotics.
Differences in body composition, static balance, field test performance, and academic achievement in 10–12-year-old soccer players
Authors: Hermassi Souhail , Hayes Lawrence D. , Bartels Thomas , Schwesig René
Published: March 2023

Introduction: This study aimed to compare 10–12-year-old Qatari male soccer players (n = 45) regarding different dimensions (anthropometric, academic and physical performance).

Methods: Anthropometric parameters (body mass, fat percentage (%BF), body mass index (BMI)) academic achievement (mathematics and science grade point average [GPA]) and physical performance [Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test (level 1), squat jumps (SJ), counter-movement jumps (CMJ), stork balance test, 10 and 15 m sprint tests, T-half test for change-of-direction (CoD) ability, hand-grip strength, medicine ball throw (MBT)] were measured. Schoolchild soccer players were divided into three groups: 12-year-old players (U12; n = 16), 11-year-old players (U11; n = 14), 10-year-old players (U10; n = 15).

Results: Apart from mathematics, Yo-Yo IR1 and 10 m sprint, all performance parameters showed significant age effects. The largest age-related difference was observed for 15 m sprint (p < 0.001). Both adjacent age groups displayed significant differences for 15 sprint (U10 vs. U11: p = 0.015; U11 vs. U12: p = 0.023). Concerning academic performance, a significant age effect was found for science (p < 0.001). There was a main age effect on academic performance difference between U10 and U11 (p = 0.007). Academic parameters did not correlate with any physical performance parameter or anthropometric parameter. The strongest correlations were detected for body height and agility T-half test (r = −0.686) and medicine ball throw (r = 0.637). The biological maturity was strongly correlated with handgrip strength (r = −0.635).

Discussion: Soccer coaches and physical education teachers can use these data as reference values for evaluation of school-aged soccer players, and for ascertaining specific training targets. Obviously, short sprinting ability and aerobic capacity are not functions of age and need a specific training for significant improvements.
Workplace gaslighting: Conceptualization, development, and validation of a scale
Authors: Kukreja Priyam , Pandey Jatin
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Gaslighting is a form of abuse that has transgressed the realms of romantic relationships to the relationships at work. Despite the growing literature on abuse at work, the conceptualization and measurement of gaslighting at work have received scarce attention. The study aimed to address this existing lacuna in the literature by conceptualizing and developing a measure of gaslighting at work.

Methods

By drawing upon and integrating existing works of literature on harmful leader behaviors, workplace abuse, and workplace mistreatment, the authors have conceptualized the concept of gaslighting in a new context, i.e., work settings, and delineated its dimensions and conceptual boundaries. Among three different samples (total N = 679) of employees, the study developed a new 12-item measure of gaslighting in work relationships, the Gaslighting at Work Questionnaire (GWQ). The study further tested the psychometric properties of GWQ, namely, internal consistency, face, and construct validity of GWQ. Additionally, a time-lagged study was used to validate the scale within a nomological net of conceptual relationships.

Results

Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis supported a two-dimensional structure of gaslighting at work (trivialization and affliction). The psychometric properties of GWQ were established. Finally, using a time-lagged study, the scale was validated within a nomological net of conceptual relationships by showing the relationship of gaslighting at work with role conflict and job satisfaction.

Discussion

The GWQ scale offers new opportunities to understand and measure gaslighting behaviors of a supervisor toward their subordinates in the work context. It adds to the existing literature on harmful leader behaviors, workplace abuse, and mistreatment by highlighting the importance of identifying and measuring gaslighting at work.
Validation of the healthcare workers’ version of the Pandemic Grief Scale among frontline nursing professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea
Authors: Kim Jeong Hye , Park C. Hyung Keun , Ahmed Oli , Hong Youjin , Chung Seockhoon , Park Jangho , Lee Sherman A.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Nurses have been repeatedly exposed to unexpected death and grief during COVID-19 pandemic, and it is necessary to provide grief support for the nurses who have experienced the loss of patients to COVID-19. We aimed to explore the reliability and validity of the Pandemic Grief Scale (PGS) for Healthcare Workers among frontline nursing professionals working in COVID-19 inpatient wards whose patients may have died.

Methods

An anonymous online survey was performed among frontline nursing professionals working in COVID-19 wards in three tertiary-level general hospitals in Korea between April 7 and 26, 2021. In total, 229 from participants who confirmed they had witnessed death of patients were employed for the statistical analysis. The survey included demographic characteristics and rating scales, including the Korean version of the PGS for Healthcare Workers, the Fear of COVID-19 scale, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 items, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 items.

Results

The single-factor structure of the Korean version of the PGS for Healthcare Workers showed good fits for the model. The scale had good internal consistency and convergent validity with other anxiety and depression scales.

Conclusion

The Korean version of the PGS of Healthcare Workers was valid and reliable for measuring grief reactions among nursing professionals facing the pandemic. It will be helpful in evaluating the grief reaction of the healthcare workers and providing them with a psychological support system.
Abnormal focal segments in left uncinate fasciculus in adults with obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Zhang Suming , Li Bin , Jiang Jiaxin , Hu Xinyu , Li Hailong , Cao Lingxiao , Zhou Zilin , Liang Kaili , Zhou Huan , Zhang Lianqing , Gong Qiyong , Huang Xiaoqi
Published: March 2023

Background

Although the specific role of the uncinate fasciculus (UF) in emotional processing in patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) has been investigated, the exact focal abnormalities in the UF have not been identified. The aim of the current study was to identify focal abnormalities in the white matter (WM) microstructure of the UF and to determine the associations between clinical features and structural neural substrates.

Methods

In total, 71 drug-naïve patients with OCD and 81 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) were included. Automated fiber quantification (AFQ), a tract-based quantitative approach, was adopted to measure alterations in diffusion parameters, including fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD) and axial diffusivity (AD), along the trajectory of the UF. Additionally, we utilized partial correlation analyses to explore the relationship between the altered diffusion parameters and clinical characteristics.

Results

OCD patients showed significantly higher FA and lower RD at the level of the temporal and insular portions in the left UF than HCs. In the insular segments of the left UF, increased FA was positively correlated with the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) score, while decreased RD was negatively correlated with the duration of illness.

Conclusion

We observed specific focal abnormalities in the left UF in adult patients with OCD. Correlations with measures of anxiety and duration of illness underscore the functional importance of the insular portion of left UF disturbance in OCD patients.
Gender impact on the outcome of rehabilitation programs in psychiatry: Brief report from a metropolitan residential rehabilitative service
Authors: Cafaro Rita , Rosti Chiara Ada Maria , Cerolini Lucia , Varinelli Alberto , Charitos Socrates , Magnotti Roberta , Benatti Beatrice , Dell’Osso Bernardo , Viganò Caterina A.
Published: March 2023

Background

Differences based on gender in the presentation and outcome of many psychiatric conditions have been highlighted in the past years. Moreover, women are often underrepresented in research samples, thus leading to a poorer understanding and addressing of their needs. As regards psychiatric rehabilitation, few studies have focused on the influence of gender on the outcomes of rehabilitation programs.

Objectives

This study aimed to analyze the impact of gender on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as on main rehabilitation outcomes, in a sample of subjects undergoing rehabilitation programs in a metropolitan residential service.

Methods

We collected socio-demographic, clinical variables and rehabilitation outcomes of all subjects discharged from the metropolitan residential rehabilitative service of the Luigi Sacco Hospital in Milan, Italy, from January 2015 to December 2021. Gender differences were analyzed through t-test and chi-square for continuous and categorical variables, respectively.

Results

In a total sample of 129 subjects equally distributed for gender (50.4% women), all subjects improved after their rehabilitation program, as measured through specific psychometric scales. However, women had a higher proportion of discharges to their own household (52.3% vs. 25% of men). They also showed higher educational status (53.8% completed high school vs. 31.3% of men). Clinically, they showed longer duration of untreated illness (3.6 ± 7.31 vs. 1.06 ± 2.35 years) and lower frequency of substance use disorders compared to men (6.4% vs. 35.9%).

Conclusion

The main result of this study shows, in light of an equal improvement in psychopathological and psychosocial functioning after the rehabilitation program, better outcomes in women compared to men, with a higher frequency of return to their own household after the completion of a rehabilitation program compared to men.
Effect of smartphone apps on glycemic control in young patients with type 1 diabetes: A meta-analysis
Authors: Pi Linhua , Shi Xiajie , Wang Zhen , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Achieving glycemic control is a great challenge for young patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D), especially during the transition from childhood to adulthood. As various smartphone apps have been developed to improve glycemic control in T1D, we performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to assess the effect of smartphone apps on glycemic control in young patients with T1D.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials comparing combined usual care and smartphone app treatment to usual care alone. This meta-analysis is reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. The primary outcomes were the weighted difference in means (WMD) of HbA1c change from baseline and the person-years incidence of mild hypoglycemia or severe hypoglycemia between intervention and control groups. We assessed pooled data by use of a random-effects model.

Results

Of 1,190 identified studies, nine were eligible and included in our analysis (N = 748 participants). Relative to the control, using smartphone apps yielded a non-significant reduction in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (WMD = −0.26, 95% CI: −0.56 to 0.05; p = 0.10) and no increased frequency of mild hypoglycemia (WMD = 1.87, 95% CI: −1.52 to 5.27; p = 0.49) or severe hypoglycemia (WMD = −0.04, 95% CI: −0.35 to 0.27; p = 0.80). In further subgroup analysis, compared with the recording-style app group, the auxiliary-style app group exhibited a significant reduction in HbA1c (WMD = −0.83, 95% CI: −1.10 to −0.56, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The current pooled data analysis did not reveal a significant reduction in HbA1c in young patients with T1D undergoing treatment with smartphone apps and usual care in combination. However, auxiliary-style apps with insulin or carbo calculators were beneficial in reducing HbA1c.
COVID-19 unemployment and access to statin medications in the United States
Authors: Hermosilla Manuel , Alexander Caleb , Polsky Dan
Published: March 2023

Objective

To quantify the effect of the unemployment created by COVID-19 on access to (sales of) statin drugs in the United States population.

Methods

Approximately half a billion transactions for statin drugs in the United States between January 2018 and September 2020 are analyzed. We studied the potential causal relation between abnormal levels of unemployment during the first wave of COVID-19 in the U.S. and abnormal levels of sales of statin products (both variables defined at the state/week level). Variables are analyzed using the Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS) method, which exploits comparisons of statin sales between states where, given the occupational distribution of their workforce, unemployment was more structurally vulnerable to mobility restrictions derived from COVID-19 against states where it was less structurally vulnerable.

Results

While we do not find unemployment effects on statin sales on most of the population, our estimates link COVID-fueled unemployment with a sharp sales reduction among Medicaid-insured populations, particularly those in working age. For the period between March and August of 2020, these estimates imply a 31% drop of statin sales among this population.

Discussion

COVID-fueled unemployment may have had a negative and significant effect on access to statin populations among Medicaid-insured populations.
Expanding school wellness policies to encompass the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model
Authors: Schwartz Marlene B. , Chafouleas Sandra M. , Koslouski Jessica B.
Published: March 2023

Schools influence children’s developmental outcomes across multiple domains, including academic, social, emotional, behavioral, and physical. School district wellness policies are powerful mechanisms that set clear expectations for health-related practices in school buildings and the surrounding community. A current challenge is that many health-related school policies are narrow, siloed, and reactive instead of proactive. In this paper, we: (a) describe how written food, nutrition, and physical activity district and state policies were strengthened in the United States in response to specific concerns about childhood obesity; (b) present how schools have historically addressed policies concerning children’s social, emotional, and behavioral health; and (c) propose using the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model to strengthen the coordination and integration of school wellness policies. We conclude by describing recently developed tools to assist school districts in implementing the WSCC model. The Wellness School Assessment Tool (WellSAT) WSCC is a quantitative measure that districts can use to code their current written policies for alignment with the WSCC model. The WSCC Policy and Practice Blueprints are action planning tools that lead school and district leaders through a series of activities to strengthen the implementation of coordinated and integrated policies and practices. By using the WSCC model and accompanying implementation tools, schools can support the development of the whole child.
Experience, facilitators, and barriers to the implementation of a multicomponent programme in older people living in the community, +AGIL Barcelona: A qualitative study
Authors: Canet-Vélez Olga , Solis-Navarro Lilian , Sitjà-Rabert Mercè , Pérez Laura Mónica , Roca Judith , Soto-Bagaria Luis , Torres-Castro Rodrigo , Díaz-Gallego Francisco , Vilaró Jordi , Inzitari Marco
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The +AGIL Barcelona programme is a multicomponent care intervention for frail older adults (FOAs) living in the community. To improve the programme, it is essential to investigate the experience of all participants. Our objective was to explore the perspective of FOA and professionals about the barriers, facilitators, and improvement elements of the development of the +AGIL Barcelona programme. Qualitative descriptive approach. Were included FOA and professionals who participated in the +AGIL Barcelona programme.

Methods

Three focus groups and four interviews were conducted. These were analyzed following the qualitative method of content analysis. The criteria of scientific rigor of credibility, dependence, and transferability were ensured throughout the study.

Results

Three themes and seven sub-themes were developed: facilitators (positive experience and perceived benefits), barriers (self-perceived health status, digital divide, and continuity of the programme at home), and improvements elements (programme continuity and adaptation of technology). All the participants felt satisfied, highlighting aspects such as interpersonal relationships and social contact, face-to-face sessions guided by a physiotherapist, and the functional improvement achieved. Some of the difficulties were the self-perception of frailty, the need for technological support, and continuing the exercise programme at home.

Conclusion

The FOA who participated in the +AGIL Barcelona programme perceived direct benefits for their health and physical condition due to the development of self-confidence by being able to perform physical exercise despite their baseline condition, and the professionals experienced an improvement in the quality of care due to work in a multidisciplinary team.
Implementation and management of a circular public procurement contract for furniture
Authors: Lingegård Sofia , von Oelreich Kristina
Published: March 2023

Circular public procurement (CPP) is one way to increase sustainability and circularity in public spending. As previous research focuses primarily on procurement, more insight is needed on the latter stages CPP. Real-life examples of CPP implementation are also required to promote the concept to practitioners, improve governance, and add depth to the literature. This study, therefore, provides in-depth knowledge of CPP implementation and management by analyzing a case of circular furniture flows and its implications for the procuring organization. The focus on furniture is motivated by the large volumes sent to landfills every year despite its remanufacturing potential, as well as the large environmental impact for production, a potentially long lifetime, and an often-high purchasing price. The results show that strategic decisions to prioritize sustainability are necessary when resource efficiency and cost reductions do not align in a short-term perspective. A more centralized governance structure facilitates decisions on reuse, remanufacturing and disposal in an organization, e.g., coordination of products for remanufacturing, pooling products for reuse, and standardization of design choices. Follow-up and inventory systems are crucial tools for integrating previously installed products with CPP, keeping track of circular flows, and providing feedback to improve subsequent procurements. Crucial elements in the follow-up include adaptation to circularity in the economy system and accounting for the prolonged life and reuse of furniture. The study's results emphasize how an organization's prerequisites play an essential part in the implementation of CPP and that contextual solutions are needed for circular challenges. The study contributes to the fields of policy implementation, CPP, and the use of circular business models in a public context, as well as to the less explored field of procurement in a circular economy context. Suggestions for future research include studies on product categories with other environmental impact profiles, and on waste management regulations that can make or break circular systems.
Perception of climate change and coping strategies among smallholder irrigators in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mwadzingeni Liboster , Mugandani Raymond , Mafongoya Paramu L.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Across sub-Sahara Africa, governments and international aid agencies are making huge investments in smallholder irrigation schemes to enhance food security, climate resilience and economic transformation in rain-fed farming systems. Unfortunately, a majority of the smallholder irrigation schemes have performed dismally on these fronts. Climate change is a major exacerbating factor to existing challenges resulting in the poor performance of the schemes. Hence, it is crucial to understand smallholder irrigators' perceptions of climate change and current adaptation strategies to co-design appropriate and acceptable adaptation strategies to address water stress in the schemes. This area had received less significant research attention. This study aims to determine the perception of climate change and coping strategies in smallholder schemes.

Methods

A mixed-method research strategy was used to collect data from 317 irrigation scheme farmers in three schemes (Exchange, Insukamini, and Ruchanyu) in Midlands Province. A binary logistic regression (BLR) method was used for data analysis.

Results

The results suggest that scheme farmers have noticed changes in temperature and rainfall patterns. Results obtained from the model show that climate change perception was mainly influenced by age, gender, location, irrigation experience, and plot size. Farmers perceived that climatic change has resulted in decreased irrigation water availability, thus leading to poor yields. This study also shows that the main adaptation strategies to water stress include improving soil moisture conservation, construction of small-scale reservoirs, water charging and trade, setting clear water use priorities, and adoption of climate-resilient and short-season crop varieties. Perception of high temperatures, long dry periods, late rainfall, increase in the frequency of drought, shortening of cold season, and shortening of rain season influence adaptation strategies adopted by scheme farmers.

Conclusion

This study offered useful data for policymakers and irrigation developers to develop appropriate policies and programs to improve the sustainability of schemes given current and projected water stress in Zimbabwe and sub-Sahara Africa in general.
Comparative nutritional evaluation of the leaves of selected plants from the Poaceae family (bamboos and grasses) for sustainable livestock production in Ghana
Authors: Sasu Prince , Attoh-Kotoku Victoria , Anim-Jnr Antoinette S. , Osman Alhassan , Adjei Obed , Adjei-Mensah Benjamin , Edinam Aku Akoli Dora , Adjima Tankouano Rachida , Kwaku Michael , Obloni Kweitsu Daniel
Published: March 2023

Background

Sustainable animal feeding is essential for reducing poverty among Ghanaian smallholder livestock farmers. However, seasonality has a severe impact on the availability and quality of conventional animal feedstuffs, necessitating alternate feed sources.

Objective

This study evaluated and compared the nutritional characteristics of the leaves of three bamboo species namely; Bambusa balcooa (Beema), Oxytenanthera abyssinica (A. Rich.) Munro and Bambusa vulgaris; and three conventional types of grass, namely; Cenchrus purpureus, Megathyrsus maximus, and Brachiaria decumbens.

Materials and methods

The plant biomasses were subjected to the standard analytical procedures of proximate and detergent fiber systems to highlight their dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), crude fiber (CF), ether extract (EE), ash, nitrogen-free extract (NFE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL). Other nutritional characteristics were estimated using the chemical compositions.

Statistical analysis

Data was analyzed using Generalized Linear Model procedures in Minitab Statistical Software at a 5% significant level.

Results

Results showed a significantly (P < 0.05) higher DM (~918 g/kgDM), CP (~153 g/kgDM), and EE (~153 g/kgDM) in B. vulgaris leaves. O. abyssinica leaves had the maximum ash (~139 g/kgDM) while those of M. maximus had the highest carbohydrate (~709 g/kgDM) and CF (~492 g/kgDM). Compared to the grasses, the bamboo had a higher pool of DM (~910 vs. 836 g/kgDM), CP (~133 vs. 75 g/kgDM), EE (~137 vs. 82 g/kgDM), ash (~134 vs. 89 g/kgDM), hemicellulose (~79 vs. 28 g/kgDM), dry matter intake (~25 vs. 24%), digestible dry matter (~58 vs. 53%), and relative feed value (~111 vs. 105). In contrast, the grasses had higher mean ADF (~461 vs. 402 g/kgDM), cellulose (~417 vs. 397 g/kgDM), and ADL (~5 vs. 0.4 g/kgDM).

Conclusion

The study suggests that bamboo leaves could have high nutritional characteristics to supplement or even replace conventional grasses and other crop residues in the diets of ruminants, especially during the dry season.