bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing access to agro-processing training for small-scale crop farmers in Gauteng province of South Africa
Authors: Mthombeni Danisile Leonah , Antwi Michael Akwasi , Oduniyi Oluwaseun Samuel
Published: April 2022

Background

The agricultural economy has little room for emerging farmers and there is no strong support system available for the small-scale farmers venturing in agro-processing. In this study, “access to agro-processing training” refers to any processing training rendered to small-scale crop farmers to equip them when venturing in to agro-processing. Small-scale crop farmers trained with high knowledge in processing and skills are pre-disposed to adopting processing as a strategy of making their processed products penetrate the agro-processing market.

Methodology

Data were collected from 307 small-scale crop farmers and STATA version 15 was used to perform fractional regression analyses to determine factors influencing access to training from the five types of agro-processing training (marketing training, processing training, record-keeping training, financial management training and business-plan training).

Results

The results revealed that 26% of the small-scale crop farmers had no access to agro-processing training and 74% of the small-scale crop farmers had access to training. Farming experience had significant influence on the access to agro-processing training for small-scale farmers to function efficiently in the agro-processing industry at 5% level of significance and their coefficient was positive.

Conclusion

Small-scale crop farmers with less farming experience should be encouraged to participate in the agro-processing sector as their participation can result in improved income and food security at the household levels. Furthermore, new agro-processing training programmes should be encouraged as trained farmers are more likely to participate in the value addition activities of agro-processing.
Specific urban units identified in tuberculosis epidemic using a geographical detector in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Ren Hongyan , Lu Weili , Li Xueqiu , Shen Hongcheng
Published: April 2022

Background

A remarkable drop in tuberculosis (TB) incidence has been achieved in China, although in 2019 it was still considered the second most communicable disease. However, TB’s spatial features and risk factors in urban areas remain poorly understood. This study aims to identify the spatial differentiations and potential influencing factors of TB in highly urbanized regions on a fine scale.

Methods

This study included 18 socioeconomic and environmental variables in the four central districts of Guangzhou, China. TB case data obtained from the Guangzhou Institute of Tuberculosis Control and Prevention. Before using Pearson correlation and a geographical detector (GD) to identify potential influencing factors, we conducted a global spatial autocorrelation analysis to select an appropriate spatial scales.

Results

Owing to its strong spatial autocorrelation (Moran’s I = 0.33, Z = 4.71), the 2 km × 2 km grid was selected as the spatial scale. At this level, TB incidence was closely associated with most socioeconomic variables (0.31 < r < 0.76, P < 0.01). Of five environmental factors, only the concentration of fine particulate matter displayed significant correlation (r = 0.21, P < 0.05). Similarly, in terms of q values derived from the GD, socioeconomic variables had stronger explanatory abilities (0.08 < q < 0.57) for the spatial differentiation of the 2017 incidence of TB than environmental variables (0.06 < q < 0.27). Moreover, a much larger proportion (0.16 < q < 0.89) of the spatial differentiation was interpreted by pairwise interactions, especially those (0.60 < q < 0.89) related to the 2016 incidence of TB, officially appointed medical institutions, bus stops, and road density.

Conclusions

The spatial heterogeneity of the 2017 incidence of TB in the study area was considerably influenced by several socioeconomic and environmental factors and their pairwise interactions on a fine scale. We suggest that more attention should be paid to the units with pairwise interacting factors in Guangzhou. Our study provides helpful clues for local authorities implementing more effective intervention measures to reduce TB incidence in China’s municipal areas, which are featured by both a high degree of urbanization and a high incidence of TB.

Graphical Abstract
Sexual attraction to men as a risk factor for eating disorders: the role of mating expectancies and drive for thinness
Authors: Ruiz de Assin Varela Pedro María , Caperos Jose Manuel , Gismero-González Elena
Published: April 2022

Background

Men tend to give more importance than women to physical aspects when selecting a partner; thus, the internalization of beauty standards and the ideal of thinness may be greater in populations attracted to men, placing them at a higher risk of eating disorders.

Methods

In a sample (n = 398) of heterosexual and gay men and women, we evaluated the drive for thinness, body dissatisfaction, and bulimic symptomatology. Using ANCOVAs, we analyzed the differences in symptoms score according to sex, sexual orientation and relational status including body mass index (BMI) as covariate; we also evaluated the mediating role of drive for thinness in the relationship between sexual orientation and body dissatisfaction.

Results

We found an increased drive for thinness and body dissatisfaction in men-attracted compared with women-attracted participants; also, body dissatisfaction was greater in women than in men. Heterosexual women presented higher bulimia scores than lesbian women. Gay men open to relationships presented higher drive for thinness and body dissatisfaction scores than those not-open to relationships. Finally, differences in body dissatisfaction between gay and heterosexual men were fully explained by drive for thinness, while, in the case of women, drive for thinness only partially explained these differences.

Conclusions

Attraction to men seems to be a risk factor for EDs in the case of gay men and heterosexual women. In addition, in the case of heterosexual women, other factors independent of the desire to attract men seem to be important.
How genetic analysis may contribute to the understanding of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID)
Authors: Kennedy Hannah L. , Dinkler Lisa , Kennedy Martin A. , Bulik Cynthia M. , Jordan Jennifer
Published: April 2022

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) was introduced in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Unlike anorexia nervosa, ARFID is characterised by avoidant or restricted food intake that is not driven by weight or body shape-related concerns. As with other eating disorders, it is expected that ARFID will have a significant genetic risk component; however, sufficiently large-scale genetic investigations are yet to be performed in this group of patients. This narrative review considers the current literature on the diagnosis, presentation, and course of ARFID, including evidence for different presentations, and identifies fundamental questions about how ARFID might fit into the fluid landscape of other eating and mental disorders. In the absence of large ARFID GWAS, we consider genetic research on related conditions to point to possible features or mechanisms relevant to future ARFID investigations, and discuss the theoretical and clinical implications an ARFID GWAS. An argument for a collaborative approach to recruit ARFID participants for genome-wide association study is presented, as understanding the underlying genomic architecture of ARFID will be a key step in clarifying the biological mechanisms involved, and the development of interventions and treatments for this serious, and often debilitating disorder.
The association between sense of coherence and quality of life: a cross-sectional study in a sample of patients on hemodialysis
Authors: Sawma Toni , Sanjab Yara
Published: April 2022

Background

Patients on hemodialysis universally experience detriments in their general quality of life (QOL). Sense of coherence (SOC) is a long-standing factor that affects QOL. Nevertheless, the association between SOC and QOL in patients on hemodialysis was seldom investigated. Our research aims to study this association in a sample of Lebanese adult patients on hemodialysis.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, SOC was measured using the short version of the “Orientation of Life" scale (SOC-13). QOL was assessed using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life- Short Form (KDQOL-SF). The association between SOC and QOL and its submodalities was first explored using Pearson Correlation and multivariate linear regression analyses, controlling for sociodemographic variables and medical variables.

Results

157 patients on hemodialysis (mean(SD) age: 62.1(13.81) years; 58.6% males) were included. Mean QOL score was 51.65 and that of SOC was 48.06. SOC was strongly corrected with the total QOL (r = 0.832; p value < 0.001), as well as its physical functioning (r = 0.767; p value < 0.001), emotional functioning (r = 0.757; p value < 0.001), cognitive functioning (r = 0.740; p value < 0.001), and social functioning (r = 0.773; p value < 0.001) submodailties. SOC was moderately correlated with professional functioning submodality of QOL (r = 0.618; p value < 0.001), but not correlated with the satisfaction with the quality of care (r = 0.052; p = 0.520). Within the regression models accounting for sociodemographic and medical variables, SOC was significantly associated with the total QOL (unstandardized B = 0.803; 95% CI 0.714, 0.893), physical functioning (unstandardized B = 0.761; standardized B = 0.763; 95% CI 0.661, 0.861), emotional functioning (unstandardized B = 1.205; standardized B = 0.757; 95% CI 1.037, 1.372), professional functioning (unstandardized B = 1.142; standardized B = 0.498; 95% CI 0.843, 1.442), cognitive functioning (unstandardized B = 1.239; standardized B = 0.739; 95% CI 1.058, 1.420), and social functioning (unstandardized B = 0.912; standardized B = 0.768; 95% CI 0.790, 1.034).

Conclusions

In a sample of adult patients on hemodialysis, SOC was positively significantly associated with QOL and its submodalities, expect the satisfaction with the quality of care. The confirmation of the general hypothesis that relates the SOC with the QOL encourages more salutogenic research among this patient population.
Examination of three-factor eating questionnaire subscale scores on weight loss and weight loss maintenance in a clinical intervention
Authors: Papini Natalie M. , Foster Rachel N. S. , Lopez Nanette V. , Ptomey Lauren T. , Herrmann Stephen D. , Donnelly Joseph E.
Published: April 2022

Background

The purpose of this study is to examine three-factor eating questionnaire (TFEQ) scores at baseline and post-intervention (6 months) on successful weight loss and weight maintenance in an 18-month behavioral weight management intervention for adults with overweight and obesity.

Methods

TFEQ and weight were assessed at baseline, 6, and 18 months. Logistic regression models were used to examine scores at baseline on disinhibition, restraint, and perceived hunger factors in the TFEQ on 5% body weight loss at 6 months and 6-month scores to predict 5% weight maintenance at 18 months while controlling for age, sex, and baseline weight.

Results

Participants (n = 287; age = 43.8 ± 10.36 years; female = 64.1%; weight = 222.5 ± 39.02 pounds; BMI = 34.73 ± 4.56) were included for analysis. Dietary restraint at baseline was the only significant predictor of 5% weight loss at 6 months. None of the TFEQ subscale scores at 6 months predicted 5% weight maintenance at 18 months. The model examining weight loss at 6 months accounted for 7% of the variance of the outcome and 11% of the variance of weight maintenance at 18 months.

Conclusion

Dietary restraint is a unique eating behavior associated with weight loss at 6 months beyond other eating behaviors measured by the TFEQ in an adult sample enrolled in a weight loss intervention. No other subscale scores were significant at 6 months or at 18 months. Future research should consider how to promote flexible control and discourage adoption of rigid restraint behaviors since the latter is associated with disordered eating patterns.
Environmental and anthropogenic influences on movement and foraging in a critically endangered lemur species, Propithecus tattersalli: implications for habitat conservation planning
Authors: Semel Meredith A. , Abernathy Heather N. , Semel Brandon P. , Cherry Michael J. , Ratovoson Tsioriniaina J. C. , Moore Ignacio T.
Published: April 2022

Background

Wildlife conservation often focuses on establishing protected areas. However, these conservation zones are frequently established without adequate knowledge of the movement patterns of the species they are designed to protect. Understanding movement and foraging patterns of species in dynamic and diverse habitats can allow managers to develop more effective conservation plans. Threatened lemurs in Madagascar are an example where management plans and protected areas are typically created to encompass large, extant forests rather than consider the overall resource needs of the target species.

Methods

To gain an understanding of golden-crowned sifaka (Propithecus tattersalli) movement patterns, including space use and habitat selection across their range of inhabited forest types, we combined behavior data with Dynamic Brownian Bridge Movement Models and Resource Selection Functions. We also examined the influence of abiotic, biotic, and anthropogenic factors on home range size, movement rates, and foraging patterns.

Results

We found that home range size and movement rates differed between seasons, with increased core area size and movement in the rainy season. Forest type also played a role in foraging behavior with sifaka groups in the humid forest avoiding roads in both seasons, groups in the dry deciduous forest avoiding road networks in the rainy season, and groups in the moderate evergreen forest displaying no selection or avoidance of road networks while foraging.

Conclusion

Our study illustrates the importance of studying primate groups across seasons and forest types, as developing conservation plans from a single snapshot can give an inaccurate assessment of their natural behavior and resources needs of the species. More specifically, by understanding how forest type influences golden-crowned sifaka movement and foraging behavior, conservation management plans can be made to the individual forest types inhabited (dry deciduous, moderate evergreen, humid, littoral, etc.), rather than the region as a whole.
Identifying barriers to care for complex airway disease and multidisciplinary solutions to optimize therapy in Canada
Authors: Cherukupalli A. , Yong M. , Chan Y. , Desrosiers M. , Thamboo A.
Published: April 2022

Background

Complex airway disease such as Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Asthma or Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease requires a multidisciplinary approach to management and treatment. Many centers in the USA have created collaborative multidisciplinary clinics to support the management of these patients; however, similar structures do not appear to exist in Canada.

Methods

This mixed methods study used a combination of structured interviews and a cross-sectional national survey. Interviewees included members of the Canadian Rhinology Working Group and survey participants were a combination of academic and community Rhinologists, Respirologists and Allergists. All participation was voluntary and selection criteria was based on their involvement in treating complex airway disease. Our objective was to identify the current state of diagnosis and treatment of complex airway patients in Canada between Rhinology, Respirology and Allergy and understand the barriers, challenges and propose solutions to establishing a multidisciplinary airway clinic in Canada.

Results

Four Rhinologists participated in qualitative interviews and a convenience sample of 42 specialists through our known network responded to our quantitative survey. From our survey, 54.8% believed multidisciplinary clinics were necessary in the management of complex airway disease, providing better outcomes and cost-savings (69%, 45.2%). Most specialties agreed that history, physical, pulmonary function and skin prick testing was important for diagnosis (92.9%, 92.9%, 88.1%). If clinicians were to participate in a multidisciplinary clinic, they would be willing to forego an average of 14.2% of their mean daily income for that clinic. The ideal clinic location was split between a neutral shared location vs. a Rhinology clinic space (38.1%, 45.2%).

Conclusions

Complex airway diseases are currently managed in subspecialty silos resulting in fragmented care. Our study highlights gaps in management, areas for improvement and support for establishing multidisciplinary complex airway disease clinics in Canada to better treat this population.
Primary palliative care recommendations for critical care clinicians
Authors: Ito Kaori , George Naomi , Wilson Jennifer , Bowman Jason , Aaronson Emily , Ouchi Kei
Published: April 2022

Palliative care is an interdisciplinary care to optimize physical, psychosocial, and spiritual symptoms of patients and their families whose quality of life is impaired by serious, life-limiting illness. In 2021, the importance of providing palliative care in the intensive care unit (ICU) is well recognized by various studies to alleviate physical symptoms due to invasive treatments, to set patient-centered goals of care, and to provide end-of-life care. This paper summarizes the evidence known to date on primary palliative care delivered in the ICU settings. We will then discuss the potential benefits and harms of primary palliative care so that critical care clinicians are better equipped to decide what services might best improve the palliative care needs in their ICUs.
Changing between representations of elementary functions: students’ competencies and differences with a specific perspective on school track and gender
Authors: Sproesser Ute , Vogel Markus , Dörfler Tobias , Eichler Andreas
Published: April 2022

Background

Functional thinking is characterized as a specific way of thinking in relationships, dependencies, and changes. Hence, beyond mathematics, it is also crucial for other (STEM) disciplines as well as for everyday situations. In particular, dealing with different representations of functions and changing between them are core function-related competencies, which are correspondingly needed for the formation of appropriate concepts and flexible problem-solving in various situations. Therefore, this study investigated students’ (N = 856) competencies related to representational changes of elementary functions and, in particular, assessed which changes are especially easy or difficult for students. Moreover, possible school track and gender differences were investigated by performing DIF analyses within the framework of Rasch modeling. The data were gathered using a paper–pencil test administered after the students had completed the teaching unit on linear functions in their mathematics lessons.

Results

Altogether, students were found to have limited competencies related to representational changes of elementary functions. There was no clear pattern regarding the types of representational change that were difficult or easy for them. Moreover, girls performed better on purely mathematical tasks, whereas boys did better at a complex modeling and problem-solving task. Classes from the academic track produced better results in tasks with a situational context compared to their peers from non-academic tracks, who performed relatively strongly on purely mathematical tasks.

Conclusions

These findings imply that various representations and representational changes should be included in lessons on functions to support students in building a rich concept of function and flexible problem-solving skills, thus fulfilling curricular requirements and responding to didactical considerations. In particular, the teaching of functions should be more balanced by mixing tasks with and without a situational context and the corresponding representational changes. These findings should motivate teachers, in particular those teaching non-academic tracks, to give a more prominent role to situational contexts in their lessons on functions in order to foster their students’ learning and build a bridge between mathematics and real-world situations.
Application of SPECT and PET / CT with computer-aided diagnosis in bone metastasis of prostate cancer: a review
Authors: Chen Zhao , Chen Xueqi , Wang Rongfu
Published: April 2022

Bone metastasis has a significant influence on the prognosis of prostate cancer(PCa) patients. In this review, we discussed the current application of PCa bone metastasis diagnosis with single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) computer-aided diagnosis(CAD) systems. A literature search identified articles concentrated on PCa bone metastasis and PET/CT or SPECT CAD systems using the PubMed database. We summarized the previous studies focused on CAD systems and manual quantitative markers calculation, and the coincidence rate was acceptable. We also analyzed the quantification methods, advantages, and disadvantages of CAD systems. CAD systems can detect abnormal lesions of PCa patients’ 99mTc-MDP-SPECT, 18F-FDG-PET/CT, 18F-NaF-PET/CT, and 68 Ga-PSMA PET/CT images automated or semi-automated. CAD systems can also calculate the quantitative markers, which can quantify PCa patients’ whole-body bone metastasis tumor burden accurately and quickly and give a standardized and objective result. SPECT and PET/CT CAD systems are potential tools to monitor and quantify bone metastasis lesions of PCa patients simply and accurately, the future clinical application of CAD systems in diagnosing PCa bone metastasis lesions is necessary and feasible.
A quick evaluation of ecological restoration based on arthropod communities and trophic guilds in an urban ecological preserve in Mexico City
Authors: Farfán-Beltrán Manuel Edday , Chávez-Pesqueira Mariana , Hernández-Cumplido Johnattan , Cano-Santana Zenón
Published: April 2022

Background

Restoration practices usually emphasize on the structural part of the biodiversity; also, most studies have focused on plants and very few have been conducted on arthropods and its function after restoration. The Pedregal de San Angel Ecological Reserve (PSAER) is a protected area immersed in Mexico City and it has been drastically affected by different anthropogenic disturbances. The aim of this study was to compare the relative diversity, richness, and abundance of species level identification, but also the composition through an analysis of ordination of taxonomic (species, family, and order level) and functional (trophic guild) traits of arthropods in three sites subjected to ecological restoration within the PSAER. Restored sites were also compared to conserved and disturbed sites, to evaluate whether restoration efforts are effective at the reserve.

Methods

Arthropods were sampled using pan traps during September 2013 in 11 sites (three restored, four conserved and four disturbed) inside the PSAER. All sampled species were taxonomically identified at species of morphospecies (inside a family) and assigned to a trophic guild. Differences in diversity, richness and abundance were evaluated through effective number of species, comparisons of Chao’s1 estimated richness and a non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test, respectively. Both taxonomic and trophic guild composition were evaluated using a multivariate analysis and a post hoc test.

Results

We found some differences in richness, abundance, and diversity between sites, but not a clear pattern of differentiation between restored to disturbed sites. The NMDS showed differences at species and order level, and with trophic guilds, among site types. Families were not useful to differentiate types of sites. Regarding guilds, predators were more abundant in conserved sites, while phytophagous insects were more abundant in disturbed sites.

Conclusions

Species and order level were useful to identify differences in communities of arthropods in sites with different management. The trophic guild approach provides information about the functional state of the restored sites. Nevertheless, our quick evaluation shows that restoration efforts at PSAER have not been successful in differentiate restored to disturbed sites yet.
The Current State of Subjective Training Load Monitoring: Follow-Up and Future Directions
Authors: Coyne Joseph O. C. , Coutts Aaron J. , Newton Robert U. , Haff G. Gregory
Published: April 2022

This article addresses several key issues that have been raised related to subjective training load (TL) monitoring. These key issues include how TL is calculated if subjective TL can be used to model sports performance and where subjective TL monitoring fits into an overall decision-making framework for practitioners. Regarding how TL is calculated, there is conjecture over the most appropriate (1) acute and chronic period lengths, (2) smoothing methods for TL data and (3) change in TL measures (e.g., training stress balance (TSB), differential load, acute-to-chronic workload ratio). Variable selection procedures with measures of model-fit, like the Akaike Information Criterion, are suggested as a potential answer to these calculation issues with examples provided using datasets from two different groups of elite athletes prior to and during competition at the 2016 Olympic Games. Regarding using subjective TL to model sports performance, further examples using linear mixed models and the previously mentioned datasets are provided to illustrate possible practical interpretations of model results for coaches (e.g., ensuring TSB increases during a taper for improved performance). An overall decision-making framework for determining training interventions is also provided with context given to where subjective TL measures may fit within this framework and the determination if subjective measures are needed with TL monitoring for different sporting situations. Lastly, relevant practical recommendations (e.g., using validated scales and training coaches and athletes in their use) are provided to ensure subjective TL monitoring is used as effectively as possible along with recommendations for future research.
Protocol for the pilot randomized trial of the CArdiovascular Risk assEssment for Rheumatoid Arthritis (CARE RA) intervention: a peer coach behavioral intervention
Authors: Weiner Joan , Lui Geyanne , Brown Mackenzie , Páez Yuliana Domínguez , Fritz Shelley , Sydnor-Campbell Tien , Allen Aberdeen , Jabri Assem , Venkatachalam Shilpa , Gavigan Kelly , Nowell William Benjamin , Curtis Jeffrey R. , Fraenkel Liana , Safford Monika , Navarro-Millán Iris
Published: April 2022

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of death among people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), with an estimated increased risk of 50–60% compared to the general population. Lipid-lowering strategies have been shown to lower CVD risk significantly in people with RA and hyperlipidemia. Thus, CVD risk assessment has an important role to play in reducing CVD among people with RA. Yet currently only 37 to 45% of this population are receiving primary lipids screening. This paper describes the CArdiovascular Risk assEssment for RA (CARE RA) intervention, which is designed to address this issue. CARE RA is a peer coach intervention, that is, an intervention in which a person with RA coaches another person with RA, which is designed to educate people with RA about the relation between RA and CVD risk and to help them obtain evidence-based CVD risk assessment and treatment.

Methods

This is an open-label pilot study that will test if the participants assigned to complete the CARE RA curriculum with a peer coach will receive a cardiovascular risk assessment more frequently compared to those that complete the CARE RA curriculum by themselves. The CARE RA intervention is guided by Social Cognitive Theory. Participants in the peer coach intervention arm will receive the assistance of a peer coach who will call the participants once a week for 5 weeks to go over the CARE RA curriculum and train them on how to obtain CVD risk assessment. The control arm will complete the CARE RA curriculum without any assistance. Participants will be randomized 1:1 either to the control arm or to the peer coach intervention arm. The primary outcome is a participant’s having a CVD risk assessment or initiating a statin, if indicated. Secondary outcomes include patient activation and RA medication adherence. The RE-AIM implementation framework guides the implementation and evaluation of the intervention.

Discussion

This pilot study will test the feasibility of the peer coach intervention in anticipation of a larger trial. CARE RA pioneers the use of peer coaches to facilitate the implementation of evidence-based treatment guidelines among people with RA.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04488497. Registered on July 28, 2020.
Effectiveness of renal denervation in the treatment of hypertension: a literature review
Authors: Shah Riya Tejas , Wang Brian Xiangzhi
Published: April 2022

Background

Catheter-based renal denervation has been studied as a potential therapeutic option to reduce high blood pressure (BP). Preclinical studies in some experimental models have demonstrated an antihypertensive effect of renal denervation but reports from clinical trials have been mixed

Methods

We performed a literature search using combinations of the key terms ‘Cardiovascular diseases, Clinical trial, Pre-clinical trials, Resistant hypertension, Renal denervation, Ablation technique, Radiofrequency ablation, Ultrasound ablation, RADIANCE SOLO, SYMPLICITY HTN, SYPRAL HTN’. The databases searched were PubMed and OVID Medline.

Results

The initial SYMPLICITY HTN-1 AND HTN-2 clinical trials reported significant decreases in office BP but results from the more robustly designed SYMPLICITY HTN-3 trial, which included sham controls and ambulatory BP monitoring, showed no significant antihypertensive effect. Interest in the use of renal denervation in hypertension was once again sparked by favourable results from the SPYRAL HTN-OFF Med trial

Conclusion

We provide a thorough, critical analysis of key preclinical and clinical studies investigating the efficacy of catheter-based renal denervation as a treatment for hypertension and highlight future areas for research to allow better translation into clinical practice
From ‘spectating’ to ‘spect-acting’: medical students’ lived experiences of online Forum Theatre training in consulting with domestic abuse victims
Authors: McGrath Daire , Gormley Gerard J. , Reid Helen , Murphy Paul
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Health care professionals, including general practitioners, have an important role in the care of those affected by domestic abuse. Therefore, it is important that healthcare professionals are adequately trained in recognising features of domestic abuse and supporting victims in disclosure. Founded by Augusto Boal, Forum Theatre is a drama methodology that can permit an experiential and immersive learning experience; lending itself well to a subject matter of oppressed individuals. In this study we aimed to gain a deep understanding of medical students’ lived experiences of training in consulting with individuals who experienced domestic abuse using an online format of forum theatre.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team developed an online forum theatre training exercise, which involved a simulated consultation between a general practitioner and domestic abuse victim. Our qualitative approach used hermeneutic phenomenology to explore the participants’ lived experiences of this training. Following the online forum theatre experience, we analysed 11 participant interviews using template analysis to structure the phenomenological interpretation.

Results

We developed five themes through our analytical process: 1) ‘Almost being there…but not quite’: the realistic experience of forum theatre; 2) ‘Taken on an emotional journey’ 3) ‘Opening and controlling a privileged space’; 4) ‘Small things matter…’: cultivating and maintaining rapport and 5) Critically reflecting on future professional self.

Discussion

This study offers fine-grained insights into medical students’ experiences of an online immersive forum theatre training exercise in consulting with individuals who have been affected by domestic abuse. Online forum theatre has the potential to provide a simulated and meaningful approach to train medical students about domestic abuse.

By providing students with a unique opportunity to step into a General Practitioner’s shoes in a domestic abuse consultation, students can practise how they manage a consultation with an impacted individual through a safe, guided, and experiential approach.
Efficacy of biopesticide Protecto (Bacillus thuringiensis) (BT) on certain biochemical activities and histological structures of land snail Monacha cartusiana (Muller, 1774)
Authors: Gaber Omhashim Abdelazeim , Asran Abd Elmawgoud Abdalla , Khider Fatma Kamel , El-Shahawy Gamal , Abdel-Tawab Heba , Elfayoumi Hoda M. K.
Published: April 2022

Background

The investigation aimed to show the effect of two concentrations of (Protecto 9.4%) commercial formulation of Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Bt) on some biochemical changes of the land snail Monacha cartusiana at three different experimental periods (24, 48 and 72 h). Also, some histobiological altrations of the snail at a lethal experimental period of 96 h were studied.

Results

Pathogenicity effect of two sub-lethal concentrations of biopesticide Protecto; LC20 (6.72 × 106 IU/mg) and LC40 (17.28 × 106 IU/mg) were studied on the land snail M. cartusiana at 3 different exposure periods (24, 48, and 72 h). Some biochemical parameters such as Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alanine amino transaminase (ALT), Aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and Total protein (TP) were investigated. These observations cleared that; a significant elevation of ALP, ALT, and AST increased with increasing the sub-lethal concentration of protecto (LC20 and LC40) against the exposed snail. Also, the activity of enzymes significantly increased with increasing the time of exposure (24, 48, and 72 h), respectively. Conversely, the level of TP in the snail was significantly decreased under pathogenic exposure for both (LC20 and LC40) concentrations of Protecto at the same three treated periods (24, 48 and 72 h). The histbiological examinations at LC20 and LC40 for the exposure period 96 h, showed that the digestive gland with vacuolated degenerated, ruptured digestive cells and hemocyte infiltration. Moreover, the foot was observed with necrotic changes, vacuolated connective tissue, as well as, deformation in muscle fiber, and rupture the outer layer.

Conclusions

Final results showed that protecto B. thuringiensis had a pathogenic effect on land snail enzymatic activities and histbiological structures of land snail.
Clinical and radiological assessment of hemiplegic shoulder pain in stroke patients
Authors: El-Sonbaty Hassan Abd-Elaty , Abou Elmaaty Ali Ahmed , Zarad Carmen Ali , El-Bahnasawy Amany Salama
Published: April 2022

Background

Hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) is one of the most common complications of stroke. This work aimed to evaluate and analyze the clinical and radiological features of painful shoulder in hemiplegic stroke patients with evaluating the diagnostic role of shoulder ultrasound and shoulder MR imaging in assessment of the causes of shoulder pain.

Methods

210 stroke patients with shoulder affection within 3 years of stroke development were enrolled. Clinical assessment including Medical Research Council scoring, The Brunnström motor recovery and Ashworth Scale. Shoulder ultrasound and MR imaging were done for 74 patients with painful hemiplegic shoulder.

Results

The prevalence of HSP was 35.2% with statistically significantly higher proportion of shorter disease duration, lower muscle power, lower BMR stage with higher proportion of bicipital tendinitis and complex regional pain syndrome in major versus moderate dependence (P < 0.001,P < 0.001,P < 0.001,P = 0.011 andP = 0.001 respectively). On multivariate analysis only short disease duration was statistically significant independent predictor. Participants with disease duration ≤ 2 months have 21.9 times higher odds to exhibit major rather than moderate dependence. By imaging there was high prevalence of joint effusion (47.3%), bicipital tendinitis (44.6%), bursitis (31%) and adhesive capsulitis (29.7%) in painful hemiplegic shoulder with a very good agreement between MRI and US in diagnosis.

Conclusion

HSP has a high prevalence in stroke patient with increased morbidity due to various factors and US can be used as an alternative or a complementary to MRI for diagnosis of hemiplegic shoulder pain.
Screening of Manilkara zapota (L) P. Royen stem bark ethanolic extract for in vitro α-glucosidase inhibition, preliminary antidiabetic effects, and improvement of diabetes and its complications in alloxan-induced diabetes in Wistar rats
Authors: Karle Pravin P. , Dhawale Shashikant C. , Mandade Rajesh J. , Navghare Vijay V.
Published: April 2022

Background

A perusal of the literature suggested that Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen stem bark (MZSB) is enriched with several bioactive phytoconstituents but had not been yet screened for its in vitro and in vivo antidiabetic potentials. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of 70% ethanolic extract of Manilkara zapota (L) P. Royen stem bark (EMZSB) in DPPH- and H2O2-scavenging assay, in vitro α-glucosidase inhibition assay, ameliorating diabetes and its complications in alloxan-induced diabetes in Wistar rats.

Results

With a maximum extractive yield of 9.16% w/w, EMZSB has shown the presence of various phytochemicals like flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, anthraquinone glycosides, steroids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. EMZSB has elucidated a considerable in vitro free radical scavenging potential by DPPH and H2O2assays when compared with absolute ethanolic extract ofManilkara zapota (L) P. Royen stem bark (AEMZSB), while ascorbic acid was taken as the standard. Further, EMZSB demonstrated high in vitro α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition potential (IC50 = 119.79 ± 1.52 µg/mL) than AEMZSB (IC50 = 129.92 ± 2.29 µg/mL) with a significant difference (p < 0.01), when acarbose was taken as reference inhibitor (IC50 = 86.43 ± 1.26 µg/mL). During acute toxicity studies EMZSB was safe up to 2000 mg kg−1doses while, found causing moribund status followed by mortality in mice at 3000 mg kg−1and above doses. A preliminary antidiabetic study with EMZSB-250 mg kg−1 in normal rats showed no sign of hypoglycemia; however, a dose-dependent antihyperglycemic effects were observed in oral glucose tolerance test in glucose-loaded rats. In vivo assessment with EMZSB-250 mg kg−1 in alloxan-induced rats demonstrated significant blood glucose-lowering effects with perfection in serum lipid profile, body weight enhancement, cardiovascular risk indices, nephroprotective effects, augmentation in liver glycogen content, and histopathological evidence of normal architecture of kidneys with no marks for nephritis.

Conclusions

EMZSB-250 showed significant antidiabetic effects and ameliorated diabetic complications by improving glycemic control and accompanying biochemical alteration.
In silico design and pharmacokinetics investigation of some novel hepatitis C virus NS5B inhibitors: pharmacoinformatics approach
Authors: Ejeh Stephen , Uzairu Adamu , Shallangwa Gideon A. , Abechi Stephen E. , Ibrahim Muhammad Tukur
Published: April 2022

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a contagious disease that damages the liver over time, eventually leading to cirrhosis and death. Chronic HCV infection is regarded as a serious health problem worldwide, impacting up to 3% of the populace and killing over 300,000 people annually. Quick reproduction driven by non-structural protein 5B (NS5B), which is a possible target spot for the development of anti-HCV vaccines, causes genomic diversity. Sofosbuvir, a new oral NS5B inhibitor, was recently licensed by the US Food and Drug Administration for the cure of HCV. Unfortunately, it has received a lot of attention due to its financial concerns and adverse effects. As a result, there is a pressing need to explore alternative HCV treatments that are both cost-effective and free of adverse effects. In this study, we used a Pharmacoinformatics-based strategy to identify and design bioactive molecules that are anti-HCV NS5B. The simulation outcomes are compared to Sofosbuvir simulation outcomes.

Results

Based on docking simulation, the proposed molecules have high-binding energies at the range of − 41.71 to − 39.90 kcal/mol against − 30.34 kcal/mol of Sofosbuvir. Furthermore, when compared to Sofosbuvir, which has a drug score of 0.31 (31% performance), the ADMET analysis of the lead compound demonstrates superior performance with a drug score of 0.88 (88% performance).

Conclusions

The findings revealed that alternative bioactive molecules vary substantially in docking rankings at a range of − 41.71 to − 39.90 kcal/mol against − 30.34 kcal/mol of Sofosbuvir, the FDA-approved NS5B enzyme inhibitor, and when compared to Sofosbuvir, which has a drug score of 0.31, the ADMET analysis of the chosen compound (1c) demonstrates superior performance with a drug score of 0.88.
External validity of the benign and malicious envy scale with Japanese undergraduate student and non-student samples
Authors: Inoue Yumi , Yokota Kunihiro
Published: April 2022

This study examined the validity of the Japanese version of the Benign and Malicious Envy Scale (BeMaS) with Japanese undergraduate student and non-student samples. Previous studies have identified two types of envy, benign and malicious, that motivate different types of behavior. However, the validity of the BeMaS, developed to measure two types of dispositional envy, has not been adequately confirmed in East Asian countries. Furthermore, it is unclear whether the two-factor structure of BeMaS is identical across various samples. Thus, in this study, we specified the Japanese words describing envy, namely, urayamashii or netamashii, suitable for the Japanese BeMaS. Additionally, we tested the validity of the scale’s two-factor model across undergraduate students and non-student samples. The questionnaire survey results showed that the validity of BeMaS’s two-factor structural model was confirmed in both samples and the goodness of fit was better for urayamashii than for netamashii. Moreover, measurement invariance across the two samples was established in configural and metric models.
Tannery wastewater treatment: conventional and promising processes, an updated 20-year review
Authors: Zhao Jun , Wu Qinglian , Tang Yuling , Zhou Jianfei , Guo Hongguang
Published: April 2022

Mismanagement of various wastes especially waste water produced by tanning processes has caused serious environmental problems and ultimately impaired human health. Constant efforts have been making to alleviate the pollution of tannery wastewater (TWW), yet terminal treatment still takes dominance. In this review, research on TWW treatment from 2000 to 2021 was summarized, and main methods such as coagulation and flocculation, adsorption, biological treatment, membrane filtration, advanced oxidation process were briefly discussed. More detailed introduction was given to the method of electrochemical treatment since it has excellent performance such as environmental friendliness and high efficiency, hence attracting more and more research attention in recent years. In view of the harsh physi-chemical conditions of TWW, integrated or combined treatment methods are accordingly recommended with better performance and multi-function, however comprehensive studies on optimization of methods combination and cost-effectiveness are needed. The certain issues that the residue Cr in treatment sludge and high salinity in effluent still remain were put forward in this work and potential solutions were provided. Moreover, this review proposed the perspective that realizing multi-function, recycling, and intensification should be the developing direction for future TWW treatment. This review is expected to provide a general guide for researchers who aspire to ameliorate TWW pollution problems and understand various methods utilized in this field.

Graphical abstract
Feminist urban living labs and social sustainability: lessons from Sweden
Authors: Wrangsten Caroline , Ferlander Sara , Borgström Sara
Published: April 2022

A debate about emerging models of urban living labs (ULLs) 2.0 is taking place in the literature, highlighting the importance of social aspects. The aim of this paper is to examine feminist ULLs as a potential source of social sustainability. This is conducted through a case study of a feminist ULL in Sweden, where girls and young women, together with multiple professional stakeholders, used Minecraft to redesign a public square in their neighbourhood - a marginalised suburban area of Stockholm. Data was collected through participant observations of six experimental labs during 1 year, surveys of the ULL participants, and an analysis of the final Minecraft designs. The empirical findings reveal a process of mutual learning between girls and professional stakeholders, where the girls were viewed as place experts. The findings also reveal that the girls’ visions include a socially sustainable transition of the urban square: from patriarchal to inclusive, from grey to green, and from a transit area to a meeting-place. There were some differences between girls and professional stakeholders. Whereas the professionals tended to emphasise security in their visions, the girls emphasised liveability. Although more research is needed, this paper concludes that feminist ULLs can be a possible source of social sustainability. However, the ULL process must both be inclusive, and at the same time unlock long-term transformation in the physical environment.
Teaching during COVID-19: reflections of early-career science teachers
Authors: Wieselmann Jeanna R. , Crotty Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2022

The unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic required that instruction be shifted online through asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid models of instruction. This created a need for many K-12 teachers to dramatically rethink how teaching and learning occurred in their classrooms. In this study, we investigate the experiences of early-career science teachers who were in their first year of teaching when the pandemic struck. Using a comparative case study and an analytical framework focused on technology-related leader practices, we explore the unique opportunities for technology-based leadership that emerged for early-career teachers during the pandemic. We posit that the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic presented novel opportunities for early-career teachers to assume leadership roles that were embedded within the classroom teaching experience, which created unique opportunities for innovation and leadership in teaching.