bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary care for people with Parkinson's disease in Brazil: A referral flowchart based on risk of falls
Authors: Myra Rafaela Simon , Koerich Micheline Henrique Araújo da Luz , Gregório Elaine Cristina , Swarowsky Alessandra
Published: August 2022

Background

People with Parkinson's disease (PD) need to exercise to have a better quality of life. The risk of falling needs to be considered when choosing and implementing exercise interventions. Flowcharts are used to facilitate referrals in Brazilian primary care network, but there is no specific one for PD.

Aim

To develop a referral flowchart for people with PD in Brazilian primary care based on the risk of falls and scientific evidence in the context of a multidisciplinary approach.

Methods

The development of the referral flowchart was accomplished in three steps; (1) relevant literature was reviewed (2) semi-structured interviews (in focus groups) were conducted with primary health care professionals to investigate the current care for people with Parkinson's disease, and (3) the information obtained from the previous steps were analyzed to inform the development of the referral flowchart.

Results

The fall risk-based flowchart uses the 3-step-fall-prediction tool. The primary health care professional should refer the person with a low risk of falls to activities with minimal supervision and those with a higher risk of falls to specialized neurology services. Neurology services are also the referral target for persons presenting significant mobility restrictions (i.e., restricted to a wheelchair or bed). The referral occurs according to what is available in Brazilian primary care.

Conclusion

This flowchart might be the first step to build a multidisciplinary approach for people with Parkinson's disease in Brazilian primary care. The next stage of this study is the validation and subsequent implementation of the flowchart through the primary care at Unified Health System in Brazil.
Evaluating the impact of mobility in COVID-19 incidence and mortality: A case study from four states of Mexico
Authors: Méndez-Lizárraga César Arturo , Castañeda-Cediel MLucía , Delgado-Sánchez Guadalupe , Ferreira-Guerrero Edith Elizabeth , Ferreyra-Reyes Leticia , Canizales-Quintero Sergio , Mongua-Rodríguez Norma , Tellez-Vázquez Norma , Jiménez-Corona María Eugenia , Bradford Vosburg Kathryn , Bello-Chavolla Omar Y. , García-García Lourdes
Published: August 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico began at the end of February 2020. An essential component of control strategies was to reduce mobility. We aimed to evaluate the impact of mobility on COVID- incidence and mortality rates during the initial months of the pandemic in selected states.

Methods

COVID-19 incidence data were obtained from the Open Data Epidemiology Resource provided by the Mexican government. Mobility data was obtained from the Observatory for COVID-19 in the Americas of the University of Miami. We selected four states according to their compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions and mobility index. We constructed time series and analyzed change-points for mobility, incidence, and mortality rates. We correlated mobility with incidence and mortality rates for each time interval. Using mixed-effects Poisson models, we evaluated the impact of reductions in mobility on incidence and mortality rates, adjusting all models for medical services and the percentage of the population living in poverty.

Results

After the initial decline in mobility experienced in early April, a sustained increase in mobility followed during the rest of the country-wide suspension of non-essential activities and the return to other activities throughout mid-April and May. We identified that a 1% increase in mobility yielded a 5.2 and a 2.9% increase in the risk of COVID-19 incidence and mortality, respectively. Mobility was estimated to contribute 8.5 and 3.8% to the variability in incidence and mortality, respectively. In fully adjusted models, the contribution of mobility to positive COVID-19 incidence and mortality was sustained. When assessing the impact of mobility in each state compared to the state of Baja California, increased mobility conferred an increased risk of incident positive COVID-19 cases in Mexico City, Jalisco, and Nuevo León. However, for COVID-19 mortality, a differential impact of mobility was only observed with Jalisco and Nuevo León compared to Baja California.

Conclusion

Mobility had heterogeneous impacts on COVID-19 rates in different regions of Mexico, indicating that sociodemographic characteristics and regional-level pandemic dynamics modified the impact of reductions in mobility during the COVID-19 pandemic. The implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions should be regionalized based on local epidemiology for timely response against future pandemics.
Association between single and multiple cardiometabolic diseases and depression: A cross-sectional study of 391,083 participants from the UK biobank
Authors: Gong Li , Ma Tianqi , He Lingfang , Lin Guoqiang , Zhang Guogang , Cheng Xunjie , Luo Fanyan , Bai Yongping
Published: August 2022

Background

Individual cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) are associated with an increased risk of depression, but it's unclear whether having more than one CMD is associated with accumulative effects on depression. We aimed to assess the associations between CMDs and depression and determine the accumulative extent.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study based on UK Biobank, participants with available information on CMDs and depression were enrolled. The history of CMDs was derived from self-reported medical history and electrical health-related records. Depression status was assessed by the aggregation of self-reported history and antidepressant use, depression (Smith), and hospital inpatient diagnoses. Logistic regression models were fitted to assess the association between the number or specific patterns of CMDs and depression and to test the accumulative effect of CMD number, adjusting for confounding factors.

Results

391,083 participants were enrolled in our analyses. After multivariable adjustments, CMDs of different number or patterns were associated with a higher risk of depression compared with the reference group (all P < 0.001). In the full-adjusted model, participants with one [odds ratio (OR) 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23–1.29], two (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.44–1.56), and three or more (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.97–2.30) CMD(s) had an increased risk of depression. A significant, accumulative dose-related relationship between the number of CMDs and depression was observed (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.24–1.27). The dose-dependent accumulative relationship was consistent in stratified analyses and sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

CMDs were associated with a higher risk of depression, and there was an accumulative relationship between CMD number and depression.
Identifying the determinants of non-injection of covid-19 vaccine: A qualitative study in Urmia, Iran
Authors: Yoosefi Lebni Javad , Irandoost Seyed Fahim , Sedighi Sardar , Ahmadi Sina , Hosseini Rana
Published: August 2022

Objective

Extensive vaccination coverage is one of the most effective ways to control COVID-19 vaccine, but the tendency to inject the vaccine is always hampered and there are various determinants of non-injection. Hence, the present study was done with the aim of identifying the determinants of non-injection of COVID-19 vaccine with a qualitative approach in the city of Urmia in Iran.

Methods

The present study was conducted with a qualitative approach and conventional content analysis method among 36 people who refused to be vaccinated. Access to participants and data collection was done in person (28 interviews) and online (8 interviews) through targeted sampling and snowball method and semi-structured interviews. Data management was performed using MAXQDA-2018 software and its analysis was performed by Graneheim and Lundman method. Also, Guba and Lincoln criteria were observed to improve the quality of results.

Results

After analyzing the data, 3 main categories and 11 subcategories were obtained including (1) Individual factors (fear of short-term side effects of vaccine, personality traits, distrust of vaccines and pharmaceutical companies), (2) Socio-cultural factors (conspiracy theory, social learning, misconceptions about COVID-19, fatalism), legal and managerial factors (incomplete information, difficult and irregular access to vaccination centers, lack of restrictions and compulsion to be vaccinated, lack of incentives to be vaccinated).

Conclusion

The results showed that various determinants were involved in the non-injection of COVID-19 vaccine. Therefore, efforts to increase vaccination coverage require comprehensive measures at different levels and cross-sectoral cooperation between governmental and non-governmental institutions and organizations.
Perceived stress and depressive symptoms among Chinese college students: A moderated mediation model of biorhythm and ego resilience
Authors: Ma Yao , Zhang Baiyang , Meng Yajing , Cao Yuan , Mao Yineng , Qiu Changjian
Published: August 2022

Objective

To explore whether biological rhythm disturbance mediates the association between perceived stress and depressive symptoms and to investigate whether ego resilience moderates the mediation model.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out using an online self-report questionnaire distributed to college students from September 2021 to October 2021. Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Perceived Stress Severity (PSS-10), the Biological Rhythms Assessment in Neuropsychiatry (BRIAN), and Ego Resilience (ER-96) were used for investigation. SPSS 23 was used for data analyses. The significance of mediation was determined by the PROCESS macro using a bootstrap approach.

Results

Among the participants, 9.2% (N = 1,282) exhibited significant symptoms of depression. Perceived stress was positively associated with depressive symptoms, and biorhythm partially mediated this relationship. The direct and indirect effects were both moderated by ego resilience. Perceived stress had a greater impact on depressive symptoms and biorhythm for college students with lower ego resilience, and the impact of biorhythm on depressive symptoms was also stronger for those with lower ego resilience. Perceived stress had an impact on depressive symptoms directly and indirectly via the mediation of biorhythm.

Conclusion

Schools and educators should guide college students to identify stress correctly and provide effective suggestions to deal with it. Meanwhile, maintaining a stable biorhythm can protect college students from developing depressive symptoms. Students with low resilience should be given more attention and assistance.
Determining the association between different living arrangements and depressive symptoms among over-65-year-old people: The moderating role of outdoor activities
Authors: Xu Rixiang , Liu Yulian , Mu Tingyu , Ye Yaping , Xu Caiming
Published: August 2022

Background

China is presently facing the challenge of meeting enormous health demands because of its rapidly aging society. Enrolling older persons in eldercare institutions is a helpful alternative for relieving family caregivers and promoting healthy aging. However, changes in the living environment may negatively affect the mental health of the elderly.

Objective

To explore the association between different living arrangements and depressive symptoms among over-65-year-old people in China and the moderating role of outdoor activities.

Method

The 2018 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) used a mixed sampling method to collect the health and demographic information of 15,874 older adults over 65 years from 23 provinces in China. After considering this study's inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final sample comprised 12,200 participants. The participants' risk of depressive symptoms was assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10). The potential association between the two elements was tested using a regression model.

Result

This study's findings suggested a significant relationship between depressive symptoms and living arrangements (P < 0.001). Participants living alone and those living in eldercare institutions had 1.26-times (95%CI: 1.10–1.44) and 1.39-times (95%CI: 1.09–1.77) higher risks of depressive symptoms, respectively, than those living with household members. Outdoor activities play a moderating role between different living arrangements and depressive symptoms. Among participants who engaged in outdoor activities, no significant difference was observed in the risk of depressive symptoms between those living in eldercare institutions and those living with household members (adjusted odds ratio = 1.15, 95%CI = 0.81–1.64, P = 0.426).

Conclusion

The high risk of depressive symptoms among older Chinese people living alone or in eldercare institutions requires considerable attention. The evidence from this study suggests that older people living alone and those living in eldercare institutions should regularly engage in appropriate outdoor activities.
A modified hand washing method for resource limited settings
Authors: Sarwar Samreen , Muhammad Javed , Shahzad Faheem
Published: August 2022

The Good Microbiological Practices & Procedures (GMPP) is the most significant risk control measure as per the fourth edition of the WHO laboratory biosafety manual. Among GMPP, one of the best practices is hand washing. WHO and other public health agencies have published several guidance documents on hand washing, that describe closing the tap using a disposable paper towel/tissue paper at the end of hand washing as one of the critical steps. In resource-limited settings, where disposable paper towels cannot be provided at all times, the staff is left with ambiguous instructions on how to close the tap. In this paper, a modified hand washing method is documented that doesn't necessitate the use of disposable paper towels. In this method, both hands and faucets remain in contact with soap for at least 40–60 s. The method was validated by the use of Glo Germ. A survey questionnaire was also designed and conducted for the lab staff (n = 12) of the two laboratories, where this method was implemented, to assess whether this hand washing method brought any improvement in their hand washing practices and implementation. All (100%) of the survey respondents reported that this method of hand washing is more applicable and implementable than the WHO-recommended hand washing technique. Eighty three percentage reported that this modified method of hand washing raised their hand washing compliance. The authors suggest that this hand washing method can be used in resource-limited laboratory settings as an effective GMPP to ensure infection control.
The potential for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in a regional urbanization project
Authors: Chapman Cherona , Hall Jim W.
Published: August 2022

With global urban populations expected to reach 5 billion by 2030, large-scale urban development is required to support and sustain this growing populous. At the same time, city planners are facing the pressures of climatic changes, which forecast more intense rainfall events, further exacerbating the existing challenge of surface water flooding in urban locations. Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) are one proposed solution to help alleviate such problems, yet much still remains to be known about their operation, performance and potential benefit provision beyond the neighborhood scale, or within a mixed-form development. Using a case study of the Cambridge to Oxford Arc (a region of England earmarked for extensive urbanization), development patterns of different extents and spatial layout were modeled. The Stormwater Management Model (SWMM) was then used to simulate surface water runoff conditions in these developments during a 1-in-10-year rainfall event. Whilst denser scenarios typically led to greater peak runoff rates and total runoff volumes, this was not always the case under some SuDS designs as the denser scenarios provided the opportunity for more SuDS provision. The proportion of different surface cover types had a strong influence of runoff volumes and rates (due to the different impermeable surface areas and SuDS provision), and since the different housing typologies offered different proportions under each development scenario, there was no single typology that showed the lowest or highest runoff volume across all scenarios. The findings of this study highlight the importance in a planning context of considering multiple typologies and their footprints of different surfaces to maximize the potential of the development design in achieving the development's goals.
Transperineal laser ablation of the prostate with EchoLaser™ system: perioperative and short-term functional and sexual outcomes
Authors: Sessa Francesco , Polverino Paolo , Bisegna Claudio , Siena Giampaolo , Lo Re Mattia , Spatafora Pietro , Pecoraro Alessio , Rivetti Anna , Conte Francesco Lupo , Cocci Andrea , Villari Donata , Minervini Andrea , Gacci Mauro , Li Marzi Vincenzo , Serni Sergio , Campi Riccardo
Published: August 2022

Objective

To date, several ultra-minimally-invasive surgical techniques are available for the treatment of male LUTS due to benign prostatic obstruction (BPO). Herein we report our preliminary experience with SoracteLite™ TPLA for the treatment of carefully selected patients with LUTS due to BPO.

Methods

Data from all consecutive patients undergoing TPLA at our institution between April 2021 and February 2022 were prospectively collected in a specific database. Data regarding functional and sexual outcomes evaluated by validated questionnaires and uroflowmetry were analyzed. All the procedure were performed in an outpatient setting, under local anesthesia and conscious sedation, using EchoLaser device, a multisource diode laser generator.

Results

Overall, 38 patients underwent TPLA at our institution during the study period. The median prostate volume was 46 ml (IQR 38-71). The median time to complete the procedure was 31 min (IQR 28-37). All patients but one were discharged within 8 hours of hospital stay. No perioperative Clavien-Dindo grade ≥2 complications were recorded. Median improvement in Qmax was 17%, 24% and 32% at 1 month, 3 months and last follow-up after surgery; as a result, the median postoperative IPSS at 1 month, 3 months and at last follow-up decreased by -14%, -36% and -35%, respectively. All patients preserved ejaculatory and sexual function. Two patients (5%), catheter carriers before the procedure, experienced acute urinary retention after TPLA treatment and required replacement of an indwelling catheter.

Conclusions

TPLA can be a feasible, safe and effective ultra-minimally-invasive procedure for carefully selected patients with LUTS due to BPO.
The Planetary Theory of Solar Activity Variability: A Review
Authors: Scafetta Nicola , Bianchini Antonio
Published: August 2022

Commenting the 11-year sunspot cycle, Wolf (1859, MNRAS 19, 85–86) conjectured that “the variations of spot-frequency depend on the influences of Venus, Earth, Jupiter, and Saturn.” The high synchronization of our planetary system is already nicely revealed by the fact that the ratios of the planetary orbital radii are closely related to each other through a scaling-mirror symmetry equation (Bank and Scafetta, Front. Astron. Space Sci. 8, 758184, 2022). Reviewing the many planetary harmonics and the orbital invariant inequalities that characterize the planetary motions of the solar system from the monthly to the millennial time scales, we show that they are not randomly distributed but clearly tend to cluster around some specific values that also match those of the main solar activity cycles. In some cases, planetary models have even been able to predict the time-phase of the solar oscillations including the Schwabe 11-year sunspot cycle. We also stress that solar models based on the hypothesis that solar activity is regulated by its internal dynamics alone have never been able to reproduce the variety of the observed cycles. Although planetary tidal forces are weak, we review a number of mechanisms that could explain how the solar structure and the solar dynamo could get tuned to the planetary motions. In particular, we discuss how the effects of the weak tidal forces could be significantly amplified in the solar core by an induced increase in the H-burning. Mechanisms modulating the electromagnetic and gravitational large-scale structure of the planetary system are also discussed.
Rhizospheric microorganisms: The gateway to a sustainable plant health
Authors: Dlamini Siphiwe Prudence , Akanmu Akinlolu Olalekan , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: August 2022

Plant health is essential for food security, and constitutes a major predictor to safe and sustainable food systems. Over 40% of the global crops' productions are lost to pests, insects, diseases, and weeds, while the routinely used chemical-based pesticides to manage the menace also have detrimental effects on the microbial communities and ecosystem functioning. The rhizosphere serves as the microbial seed bank where microorganisms transform organic and inorganic substances in the rhizosphere into accessible plant nutrients as plants harbor diverse microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, nematodes, viruses, and protists among others. Although, the pathogenic microbes initiate diseases by infiltrating the protective microbial barrier and plants' natural defense systems in the rhizosphere. Whereas, the process is often circumvented by the beneficial microorganisms which antagonize the pathogens to instill disease resistance. The management of plant health through approaches focused on disease prevention is instrumental to attaining sustainable food security, and safety. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the evolving and succession of root microbiomes in response to crop development as discussed in this review opens up new-fangled possibilities for reaping the profit of beneficial root–microbiomes' interactions toward attaining sustainable plant health.
Differential T-cell responses in dogs with meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin compared to healthy controls
Authors: Barber Renee , Barber James
Published: August 2022

Meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin (MUO) is a common disorder in dogs that results in mononuclear inflammation in the brain and/or spinal cord. MUO is presumed to be autoimmune but specific immunological aberrations have not been identified. This exploratory study aimed to evaluate T cell production of two cytokines commonly implicated in autoimmune disease, interferon-gamma (IFNg) and interleukin-17 (IL17). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained from 12 dogs with MUO and 10 healthy controls, stimulated to activate intracellular signaling pathways, and stained with a cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4), cluster of differentiation eight (CD8), IFNg, and IL17 antibodies prior to analysis by flow cytometry. Mean differences in absolute cell numbers are represented as MUO cases minus healthy controls, and 95% Cis are reported. Overall IFNg-producing lymphocytes (mean difference = 241.8 cells/ul, 95% CI = 65.6 to 418.1) and CD4+ IFNg-producing T-cells (mean difference = 188.4, 95% CI = 77.3 to 299.5) were fewer in MUO cases. Additionally, CD4+ IL17-producing T-cells were greater in MUO cases (mean difference −34.9, 95% CI = −50.54 to −19.17) and CD8+ IL17-producing T-cells were fewer in MUO cases (mean difference = 73.5, 95% CI = 6.8 to 140.1). These results support that immunological changes can be identified in peripheral blood cells of dogs with MUO and suggest that T-helper type 17 (Th17) cells may play a role in pathogenesis.
Social Determinants of Health in the COVID-19 Pandemic Context of the Migrant Population Living in Settlements in Spain
Authors: Allande-Cussó Regina , García-Iglesias Juan Jesús , Miranda-Plata Rosario , Pichardo-Hexamer Rocío , Ruiz-Frutos Carlos , Gómez-Salgado Juan
Published: August 2022

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe and evaluate the sociodemographic profile and assess the levels of anxiety and fear, work engagement, and psychological distress on a sample of migrants living in settlements in the province of Huelva (Spain) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 623 migrants during the months of April to June 2021, based on the Anxiety and Fear of COVID-19 (AMICO) assessment scale, the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale to assess work engagement, and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) to analyse psychological distress.

Results: A low level of education, dwelling of less than 3 m2 and the desire to return to the country of origin may be related to the presence of anxiety and fear of COVID-19 and lower levels of work engagement.

Conclusion: There is a need to improve the study of the concept of health of the migrant population residing in the settlements of Huelva (Spain) and the assessment of their physical and mental health, in an official way.
Flipped Classroom Formats in a Problem-Based Learning Course: Experiences of First-Year Bachelor European Public Health Students
Authors: de Jong Nynke , van Rosmalen Peter , Brancaccio Maria Teresa , Bleijlevens Michel H. C. , Verbeek Hilde , Peeters Inge G. P.
Published: August 2022

Objectives: Students would like to see more creativity and flexibility in the performance of problem-based learning (PBL). Therefore, we applied flipped classroom formats in a course of the Bachelor European Public Health at Maastricht University to investigate the experiences of the students. The main objective was to stimulate interaction between students mutual, and between students and teachers.

Methods: 304 first-year students following the course on “Ageing in Europe” in three academic years, were asked to fill out questions focussing on prior knowledge, preparation work, and group session parameters, e.g., duration, content, extent of interaction and format group session.

Results: In-class activities, such as debate, making a mind map, giving a pitch, role-play e.g., were highly appreciated by students, especially the interactivity and discussions with the experts during these sessions. Students felt they applied knowledge.

Conclusion: Flipped classroom formats can be used to extend the Maastricht University PBL design and students do recommend this. It can be a relevant and challenging answer on the articulated request for more creativity and flexibility in the regular PBL format.
Green Human Resource Management: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Fachada Jéssica , Rebelo Teresa , Lourenço Paulo , Dimas Isabel , Martins Helena
Published: August 2022

Despite the growing attention which green human resource management (GHRM) has been gaining, the field is still remarkably young, and conceptual clarity is yet to be attained. A bibliometric review of GHRM from 2010 to 2020 was conducted on the Web of Science and analyzed using the VOSviewer software package, version 1.6.16 developed by Van Eck and Waltman (Leiden, The Netherlands). The results show the exponential growth of this topic, although there seems to be no consensus regarding its definition, conceptualization and measurement. Concerning its conceptual development, GHRM seems to currently fit the second stage of development (evaluation and augmentation) of Reichers and Schneider’s three-stage model of the evolution of constructs. Future research seems to point in the direction of establishing the barriers separating GHRM from other human resource management topics, defining green practices and determining the antecedents and consequences of GHRM.
The Different Impact of PM2.5 on Atherogenesis in Overseas vs. Native Chinese in the CATHAY Study
Authors: Woo Kam-Sang , Chan Shu-Wing , Kwok Timothy C. Y. , Yin Yue-Hui , Chook Ping , Lin Chang-Qing , Celermajer David S.
Published: August 2022

Air pollution (PM2.5) has been associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) globally and with early atherosclerosis surrogate markers in modernized China. A sizeable number of Chinese have migrated overseas, with an increase in their vulnerability to CVD. To evaluate the impact of PM2.5 air pollution on atherogenesis in native vs. overseas Chinese, we recruited 756 asymptomatic native Chinese and 507 age- and gender-matched overseas Chinese from Sydney and San Francisco. Their cardiovascular profiles were evaluated. PM2.5 was derived from remote sensing technology; atherosclerosis surrogate markers, flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) were measured by ultrasound. The native Chinese had a higher proportion of smokers as well as higher blood pressure, glucose, metabolic syndrome and PM2.5 exposure (p < 0.001), but lower lipids and folate than the overseas Chinese (p < 0.0001). Carotid IMT was lower in the native Chinese (p < 0.0001), but the other vascular parameters were similar. A multivariate regression revealed that FMD in the native Chinese was related to the male gender, age and location; in the overseas Chinese, it was related to age, but not to PM2.5. Carotid IMT in the native Chinese was related to PM2.5, independent of atherosclerotic risk factors and location (R2 = 0.384, F = 34.5, p < 0.0001) whereas in the overseas Chinese, IMT was related to the male gender and age, but not to PM2.5 or overseas location (R2 = 0.282, F = 19.7, p < 0.0001). PM2.5 had a greater impact on atherogenesis in the native Chinese, independent of traditional risk factors, with implications for preventive strategies.
Midfacial Morphology and Neandertal–Modern Human Interbreeding
Authors: Churchill Steven E. , Keys Kamryn , Ross Ann H.
Published: August 2022

Ancient DNA from, Neandertal and modern human fossils, and comparative morphological analyses of them, reveal a complex history of interbreeding between these lineages and the introgression of Neandertal genes into modern human genomes. Despite substantial increases in our knowledge of these events, the timing and geographic location of hybridization events remain unclear. Six measures of facial size and shape, from regional samples of Neandertals and early modern humans, were used in a multivariate exploratory analysis to try to identify regions in which early modern human facial morphology was more similar to that of Neandertals, which might thus represent regions of greater introgression of Neandertal genes. The results of canonical variates analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis suggest important affinities in facial morphology between both Middle and Upper Paleolithic early modern humans of the Near East with Neandertals, highlighting the importance of this region for interbreeding between the two lineages.
Paper-Based Molecular-Imprinting Technology and Its Application
Authors: Xu Shufang , Xu Zhigang , Liu Zhimin
Published: August 2022

Paper-based analytical devices (PADs) are highly effective tools due to their low cost, portability, low reagent accumulation, and ease of use. Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) are also extensively used as biomimetic receptors and specific adsorption materials for capturing target analytes in various complex matrices due to their excellent recognition ability and structural stability. The integration of MIP and PADs (MIP-PADs) realizes the rapid, convenient, and low-cost application of molecular-imprinting analysis technology. This review introduces the characteristics of MIP-PAD technology and discusses its application in the fields of on-site environmental analysis, food-safety monitoring, point-of-care detection, biomarker detection, and exposure assessment. The problems and future development of MIP-PAD technology in practical application are also prospected.
Study on the Improvement Strategy of Trust Level between Owner and PMC Contractor Based on System Dynamics Model
Authors: Li Hongyan , Feng Jingchun
Published: August 2022

Based on the theory of system dynamics, we investigated the factors influencing the trust relationship between owners and PMC contractors in a Chinese management scenario, and proposed effective management strategies to increase the level of trust between the two parties. In the early stages of PMC project implementation, calculative trust between the owner and the PMC contractor predominated, while relational trust predominated in the middle and late stages. The applicability of the PMC model and the control configuration between the owner and the PMC contractor are also vital factors influencing the trust level. Principal determinants of calculative trust are the management capability and reputation of the PMC contractor, the sufficiency of the owner’s authorization, and the efficacy of the owner’s supervisory measures. There are four factors that influence relational trust, in order of decreasing influence: the sufficiency of the owner’s authorization, the effectiveness of the owner’s supervisory measures, the social similarity between the owner and PMC contractor, and the management capability and reputation of the PMC contractor. The research can be used as a guide for enhancing PMC project management performance and achieving PMC project success.
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Metastasised Renal Cell Carcinoma—Future or the Past?
Authors: Michaelis Jakob , Grabbert Markus , Sigle August , Yilmaz Mehmet , Schlager Daniel , Gratzke Christian , Miernik Arkadiusz , Schoeb Dominik Stefan
Published: August 2022

Background: To review and discuss the literature on applying tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in the treatment of metastasised renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). Materials and Methods: Medline, PubMed, the Cochrane database, and Embase were screened for randomised controlled trials, clinical trials, and reviews on treating renal cell carcinoma, and the role of TKI. Each substance’s results were summarised descriptively. Results: While TKI monotherapy is not currently recommended as a first-line treatment for metastasized renal cell carcinoma, TKIs are regularly applied to treat treatment-naïve patients in combination with immunotherapy. TKIs depict the first-choice alternative therapy if immunotherapy is not tolerated or inapplicable. Currently, seven different TKIs are available to treat mRCC. Conclusions: The importance of TKIs in a monotherapeutic approach has declined in the past few years. The current trend toward combination therapy for mRCC, however, includes TKIs as one significant component of treatment regimens. We found that to remain applicable to ongoing studies, both when including new substances and when testing novel combinations of established drugs. TKIs are of major importance for the treatment of renal cancer now, as well as for the foreseeable future.
The Role of PTEN in Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Fedorova Olga , Parfenyev Sergey , Daks Alexandra , Shuvalov Oleg , Barlev Nickolai A.
Published: August 2022

Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog deleted on Chromosome 10 (PTEN) is one of the critical tumor suppressor genes and the main negative regulator of the PI3K pathway. PTEN is frequently found to be inactivated, either partially or fully, in various malignancies. The PI3K/AKT pathway is considered to be one of the main signaling cues that drives the proliferation of cells. Perhaps it is not surprising, then, that this pathway is hyperactivated in highly proliferative tumors. Importantly, the PI3K/AKT pathway also coordinates the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is pivotal for the initiation of metastases and hence is regarded as an attractive target for the treatment of metastatic cancer. It was shown that PTEN suppresses EMT, although the exact mechanism of this effect is still not fully understood. This review is an attempt to systematize the published information on the role of PTEN in the development of malignant tumors, with a main focus on the regulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway in EMT.
Checkpoint Markers and Tumor Microenvironment: What Do We Know?
Authors: Ephraim Ramya , Fraser Sarah , Nurgali Kulmira , Apostolopoulos Vasso
Published: August 2022

The cancer microenvironment, or tumor microenvironment (TME), describes the non-cancerous cells present in the tumor, such as fibroblasts, immune cells, and cells that comprise the blood vessels and proteins produced by all of the cells present in the tumor that support the growth of the cancer cells [...]
Recurrent Episodes of Acute Myocardial Infarction Secondary to Paradoxical Coronary Artery Embolism
Authors: Singh Mita , Gomes Ana , Hill Paul , Saha Ansuman
Published: August 2022

Coronary artery embolism is a rare cause of acute myocardial infarction, attributed to approximately 10% of all paradoxical embolisms. It is a condition that should be considered in patients who present with chest pain and have a low overall risk of coronary heart disease. A major risk of coronary artery embolism is the existence of a patent foramen ovale (PFO), which can be shown on bubble transthoracic echocardiography. Here we describe a case report of a 68-year-old Caucasian lady who presented with recurrent episodes of myocardial infarction secondary to a paradoxical coronary artery embolism which was likely due to a PFO. We emphasize the need for more research on the role of PFO percutaneous device closure compared to just medical therapy in those with recurrent episodes of acute myocardial infarction secondary to paradoxical coronary artery embolism. This, in turn, should provide clearer guidance in managing such patients with high risk of mortality.
NOx Photooxidation over Different Noble Metals Modified TiO2
Authors: Skalska Kinga , Malankowska Anna , Balcerzak Jacek , Gazda Maria , Nowaczyk Grzegorz , Jurga Stefan , Zaleska-Medynska Adriana
Published: August 2022

We compared the activity enhancement effect of noble metal deposited on TiO2 in photocatalytic nitrogen oxides oxidation. Titanium dioxide was decorated with Ag, Au, Pt or Pd in the sol-gel process. Synthesized catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller measurement (BET), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). All catalysts together with pure TiO2 obtained by sol-gel (SG) technique were tested for their photocatalytic activity towards nitrogen oxide oxidation (high concentrations of 50, 150 and 250 ppm). FTIR spectrometry was used to determine the gas phase composition and identify TiO2 surface species. The Ag0.1 sample turned out to be deactivated within 60 min of UV/Vis irradiation. Photocatalytic oxidation rate towards NO2 turned to be the highest over SG (photocatalyst without metal deposition). NO2 formation was also observed for Au0.1, Au0.5, Pt0.1, Pt0.5 and Pd0.1. The best NOx removal, i.e., conversion to final product HNO3 was obtained with the Au0.5 photocatalyst.
A Novel m6A-Related LncRNA Signature for Predicting Prognosis, Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy Response in Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Shen Yefeng , Wang Shaochun , Wu Yuanzhou
Published: August 2022

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) have been associated with cancer prognosis and the effect of immunotherapy. However, the roles of m6A-related lncRNAs in the prognosis and immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients remain unclear. We evaluated the m6A modification patterns of 695 samples based on m6A regulators, and prognostic m6A-related lncRNAs were identified via a weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Twelve abnormal m6A regulators and nine prognostic lncRNAs were identified. The tumor microenvironment cell-infiltrating characteristics of three m6A-related lncRNA clusters were highly consistent with the three immune phenotypes of tumors, including immune-excluded, immune-inflamed and immune-desert phenotypes. The lncRNA score system was established, and high lncRNA score patients were associated with better overall survival. The lncRNA score was correlated with the expression of the immune checkpoints. Two immunotherapy cohorts supported that the high lncRNA score enhanced the response to anti-PD-1/L1 immunotherapy and was remarkably correlated with the inflamed immune phenotype, showing significant therapeutic advantages and clinical benefits. Furthermore, the patients with high lncRNA scores were more sensitive to erlotinib and axitinib. The lncRNA score was associated with the expression of miRNA and the regulation of post-transcription. We constructed an applied lncRNA score-system to identify eligible LUAD patients for immunotherapy and predict the sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs.
The Effect of Metabolic Profile on Leptin, Adiponectin, and hs-CRP in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Kaza Maria , Tsentidis Charalampos , Vlachopapadopoulou Elpis , Sakou Irine-Ikbale , Karanasios Spyridon , Mastorakos George , Karavanaki Kyriaki
Published: August 2022

Adipokines are a superfamily of cell signaling proteins produced by the adipose tissue. This study’s purpose was to reveal the association of adipokines (leptin, adiponectin), hs-CRP, and IL-6 with well-known cardiovascular risk factors (lipid profile, diabetes control, obesity, physical activity) in children and adolescents with T1D. This cross-sectional study included 80 participants (36 boys) with T1D, aged (mean ± SD) 14.8 ± 3.4 years. Body Mass Index (BMI), metabolic profile, and level of physical activity were assessed (using pedometers) for evaluation of their effect on serum leptin, adiponectin, IL-6, and hs-CRP. Leptin levels were associated with BMI (beta = 0.184, p < 0.001), waist to hip ratio (beta = −2.017, p = 0.022), Low Density Lipoprotein-C (LDL-C) (beta = 0.021, p = 0.005), and fat mass (beta = 14.07, p < 0.001). Adiponectin was correlated with waist to height ratio (beta = 0.048, p = 0.006), ΒΜΙ (beta = −0.056, p = 0.005), and muscle mass (beta = −0.013, p = 0.020). Interestingly, hs-CRP was associated with weight (beta = 0.035, p < 0.001), ΒΜI (beta = 0.186, p < 0.001), fat mass (beta = 5.2859, p = 0.004), and muscle mass (beta = 0.027, p = 0.008). Multiple regression analysis of muscle mass unveiled associations with log hs-CRP (beta = −1.237, p = 0.014) and inverse IL−6 (beta = 18.57, p = 0.01). Finally, multiple regression models of fat mass unveiled associations with physical activity (7-day-total-step-count) (beta = −3.90 × 10−7, p = 0.027), Inverse IL-6 (beta = −0.1572, p = 0.009), and squared leptin (beta = 0.0077, p = 0.03). This study reports a positive association of leptin with LDL-C, BMI, fat mass, and hip circumference and a negative association of adiponectin with BMI and muscle mass. Finally, hs-CRP was associated with HbA1c, fat mass, and BMI. We propose that leptin, adiponectin, and hs-CRP could be used as prognostic indicators of cardiovascular risk in children with T1D.
A Controlled Trial Evaluating the Impact of a Home-Visiting Program on Maternal Disruptive Communication in a Vulnerable Population
Authors: Tereno Susana , Greacen Tim , Guedeney Antoine C.
Published: August 2022

Attachment disorganization is a significant high-risk factor for infant mental health. Its association with high-risk psychosocial contexts has been clearly identified, but the link between these difficult social contexts and maternal disruptive communication has been poorly explored. The CAPEDP (Compétences Parentales et Attachement dans la Petite Enfance; Parental competences and attachment in early childhood) study assessed the effects of a manualized home-intervention on the mental health of children and its major determinants. In this controlled trial, 440 young, first-time mothers belonging to socially vulnerable populations were recruited. Mothers in the intervention group received psychological support from the 27th week of pregnancy through to their child’s second birthday, while both groups received assessment visits at the 3rd, 6th, 9th, 18th, and 24th months of age of the child and benefited from assistance by the research team. When the children reached 12 months of age, an ancillary study, the CAPEDP-Attachment (n = 119) evaluated the effects of this intervention on attachment. The current paper describes the program’s impact on this subsample concerning maternal disruptive behavior, while exploring the role of socioeconomic risk factors. Our results showed that: (a) mothers in the intervention (IG) group presented significantly less disruptive communication than those in the control group (CG), even though the CG received a significant level of care over and above that which is available to the public in the French health system as ‘care as usual’; (b) having a “low income” and “having given birth prematurely” was associated with maternal disruptive communication; and (c) the intervention impact increased when the model was adjusted for these two variables. Results suggest that attachment focused intervention programs should invest both maternal interactional skills and social and economic vulnerability.
The Effect of Foot Deformity and First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Plantar Pain on Performance in DanceSport Athletes
Authors: Liu Zijian , Yabiku Hiroki , Okunuki Takumi , Chen Shuo , Hoshiba Takuma , Maemichi Toshihiro , Nagamoto Hideaki , Li Yanshu , Kumai Tsukasa
Published: August 2022

Background: Adolescent DanceSport athletes who regularly dance in high heels have a higher possibility of developing hallux valgus deformity and foot pain. We believe that the occurrence of foot disorders may change the loading on their feet, which thus affects the athletic performance of those adolescents. Methods: A total of 63 adolescent DanceSport athletes (16 boys, 47 girls) were included. The plantar pain in the first metatarsophalangeal (1st MTP) joint was evaluated using a questionnaire, and the hallux valgus angle was evaluated using digital photographs (HVAp). The loading values of the plantar pressure while performing relève on demi-pointe were measured using sensor sheets. The participating boys and girls were analyzed separately. Results: The results showed that female adolescent DanceSport athletes with the 1st MTP joint plantar pain showed a decrease in the loading distribution and plantar pressure percentage on the hallux and an increased loading distribution and pressure distribution of the metatarsal head as the HVAp increased. Conclusion: Among adolescent DanceSport athletes with plantar pain in the 1st MTP joint and a large HVAp, the loading manner of the foot may have changed, which may be associated with a decrease in the toe function and performance.
Advances in Two-Dimensional Materials for Optoelectronics Applications
Authors: Zhao Mingyue , Hao Yurui , Zhang Chen , Zhai Rongli , Liu Benqing , Liu Wencheng , Wang Cong , Jafri Syed Hassan Mujtaba , Razaq Aamir , Papadakis Raffaello , Liu Jiangwei , Ye Xiaoling , Zheng Xiaoxiao , Li Hu
Published: August 2022

The past one and a half decades have witnessed the tremendous progress of two-dimensional (2D) crystals, including graphene, transition-metal dichalcogenides, black phosphorus, MXenes, hexagonal boron nitride, etc., in a variety of fields. The key to their success is their unique structural, electrical, mechanical and optical properties. Herein, this paper gives a comprehensive summary on the recent advances in 2D materials for optoelectronic approaches with the emphasis on the morphology and structure, optical properties, synthesis methods, as well as detailed optoelectronic applications. Additionally, the challenges and perspectives in the current development of 2D materials are also summarized and indicated. Therefore, this review can provide a reference for further explorations and innovations of 2D material-based optoelectronics devices.