bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal MicroRNA-Gene Expression Network Related to Orofacial Clefts
Authors: Yan F. , Simon L.M. , Suzuki A. , Iwaya C. , Jia P. , Iwata J. , Zhao Z.
Published: July 2022

Craniofacial structures change dynamically in morphology during development through the coordinated regulation of various cellular molecules. However, it remains unclear how these complex mechanisms are regulated in a spatiotemporal manner. Here we applied natural cubic splines to model gene and microRNA (miRNA) expression from embryonic day (E) 10.5 to E14.5 in the proximal and distal regions of the maxillary processes to identify spatiotemporal patterns of gene and miRNA expression, followed by constructing corresponding regulatory networks. Three major groups of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, including 3,927 temporal, 314 spatial, and 494 spatiotemporal DEGs. Unsupervised clustering further resolved these spatiotemporal DEGs into 8 clusters with distinct expression patterns. Interestingly, we found 2 clusters of differentially expressed miRNAs: 1 had 80 miRNAs monotonically decreasing and the other had 97 increasing across developmental stages. To evaluate the phenotypic relevance of these DEGs during craniofacial development, we integrated data from the CleftGeneDB database and constructed the regulatory networks of genes related to orofacial clefts. Our analysis revealed 2 hub miRNAs, mmu-miR-325-3p and mmu-miR-384-5p, that repressed cleft-related genes Adamts3, Runx2, Fgfr2, Acvr1, and Edn2, while their expression increased over time. On the contrary, 2 hub miRNAs, mmu-miR-218-5p and mmu-miR-338-5p, repressed cleft-related genes Pbx2, Ermp1, Snai1, Tbx2, and Bmi1, while their expression decreased over time. Our experiments indicated that these miRNA mimics significantly inhibited cell proliferation in mouse embryonic palatal mesenchymal (MEPM) cells and O9-1 cells through the regulation of genes associated with cleft palate and validated the role of our regulatory networks in orofacial clefts. To facilitate interactive exploration of these data, we developed a user-friendly web tool to visualize the gene and miRNA expression patterns across developmental stages, as well as the regulatory networks ( https://fyan.shinyapps.io/facebase_shiny/ ). Taken together, our results provide a valuable resource that serves as a reference map for future research in craniofacial development.
Studying lithic microdebitage with a dynamic image particle analyzer
Authors: Eberl Markus , Johnson Phyllis , Estrada Aguila Rebecca
Published: July 2022

Lithic microdebitage has great archaeological potential to elucidate ancient stone tool production. So far, archaeologists have collected soil samples, separated them into size fractions, and analyzed them manually under a microscope to identify microdebitage. This time- and labor-intensive process has limited the number of samples and introduced intra- and inter-observer errors. Here, we discuss lithic microdebitage analysis with a dynamic image particle analyzer. This machine takes videos of soil particles as they fall from a chute. Software tracks them and measures their dimensions. Since sieving is no longer necessary, microdebitage analysis proceeds more quickly and processes samples within a few minutes. The standardized output allows the objective analysis of lithic microdebitage. We compare the angularity of c. 120,000 particles in an archaeological soil sample with experimental microdebitage. While the distributions show intriguing overlaps, we conclude that the most angular archaeological particles are not microdebitage but reflect a software glitch.
Analysis of cultural heritage in music didactic materials in Galicia
Authors: Cores Torres Antía , Rodríguez Jesús Rodríguez
Published: July 2022

Our objective was to analyze the presence of cultural heritage in a sample of music teaching materials, in the Galician (Spain) context. We used content analysis; and developed an instrument-guide for the evaluation of teaching materials. This guide was divided into eight blocks that included topics related to the analysis of the presence of tangible and intangible goods. The sample consisted of 10 musical albums from the Autonomous Community of Galicia. The results showed that the presence of cultural heritage elements is scarce in these resources and, significantly, in their illustrations. On the other hand, audiovisual resources such as DVDs were found to include the greatest number of characteristic elements of the language and culture of Galicia. This research provides initial information on the analysis of the characteristics of music teaching materials, and it represents one of the first studies on this topic in the Spanish context. The novelty of our research for teaching materials and music education lies in the proposed cultural and linguistic dimensions as new criteria for evaluating teaching materials.
Data-Driven Detection and Assessment for Urban Railway Transit Driver Fatigue in Real Work Conditions
Authors: Jiao Yubo , Chen Xiaoyu , Sun Zhiqiang , Fu Liping , Jiang Chaozhe , Wen Chao , Zhang Xiaoming
Published: July 2022

Fatigue among urban railway transit (URT) drivers affects their performance and is a contributing factor in many railway accidents and incidents. This paper attempts to develop a robust fatigue detection system for URT drivers. An experimental study was conducted in actual work conditions, involving 198 professional URT drivers, to provide authentic and representative data. Fatigue scores based on the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale were used as the ground truth, and heart rate variability (HRV) data were collected using wearable photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors under actual working conditions. An extensive statistical analysis found that continuous working hours were a major factor in driver fatigue. HRV features were able to differentiate various fatigue levels. Four classifiers (k-nearest neighbors, Naive Bayes, support vector machines, and random forests) were trained to detect fatigue in real time for binary and three-class fatigue classifications, respectively. For the binary classification, the best performance was achieved by the random forest classifier using the corrected feature set as input with an accuracy of 92.5%. However, the accuracy dropped by 8 to 27 percentage points for the three-class classification. Moreover, the research found that the corrected feature set circumventing inter-individual variability in HRV could improve the performance of fatigue classifiers. The findings from this research could contribute to developing a robust and real-time URT driver fatigue detection system and improve current URT operational safety regulations.
The epidemiology of delayed HIV diagnosis in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Oluwalana Michael O , Awolude Olutosin A , Gao Zhiwei , Daley Peter K
Published: July 2022

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV) is one of the major health burdens in Nigeria. Delayed HIV diagnosis remains a significant driver of HIV transmission. The risk factors of delayed HIV diagnosis have not been widely studied in Nigeria. This observational study examined demographic risk factors for delayed HIV diagnosis and the trends in the annual total cases of delayed HIV diagnosis in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Methods

We examined the data on HIV patients enrolled in care at the University College Hospital’s Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) clinic in Ibadan, Nigeria. Delayed HIV diagnosis was defined as a Cluster of Differentiation 4 (CD4) count of less than 350 cells/mm³ at the time of diagnosis. The association between delayed HIV diagnosis and risk factors was analyzed using logistic regression. The trends in the annual total cases of delayed HIV diagnosis over time were examined.

Results

This study included 3458 HIV patients. There were 1993/3458 prevalent cases of delayed HIV diagnosis (57.6%). The risk factors for delayed HIV diagnosis were older age, retirement, marriage separation, never married, and widowed female. The factors that were significantly associated with a low risk of delayed HIV diagnosis were student and tertiary education. There was a progressive decline in the annual cases of delayed HIV diagnosis.

Conclusions

Although the cases of delayed HIV diagnosis are still high, they are declining. Human immunodeficiency virus testing should be targeted at populations at risk of delayed diagnosis. Considerable public awareness and education programs about HIV testing may significantly reduce delayed HIV diagnosis in Nigeria.
School-based Child Sexual Abuse Interventions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Lu Mengyao , Barlow Jane , Meinck Franziska , Walsh Kerryann , Wu Yumeng
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purposes of this systematic review were to systematically summarize components in existing school-based child sexual abuse (CSA) prevention programs and identify predictors for program effectiveness.

Method

Building upon the most comprehensive systematic review on this topic, we conducted systematic searches in both English-language from September 2014 to October 2020 and Chinese-language from inception to October, 2020. Meta-regressions were performed to identify predictors for program effectiveness.

Results

Thirty-one studies were included with a total sample size of 9049 participants. Results from meta-analyses suggested that interventions are effective in increasing participants’ CSA knowledge as assessed via questionnaires ( g = 0.72, 95% CI [0.52–0.93]) and vignette-based measures ( g = 0.55, 95% CI [0.35–0.74]). Results from meta-regression suggested that interventions with more than three sessions are more effective than interventions with fewer sessions. Interventions appear to be more effective with children who are 8 years and older than younger children.

Discussion

CSA is a global issue that has significant negative effects on victims’ physical, psychological, and sexual well-being. Our findings also provide recommendations for future research, particularly in terms of optimizing the effectiveness of school-based CSA prevention programs, and the better reporting of intervention components as well as participant characteristics.
Media representation and the Paralympics: a step too far or not far enough?
Authors: Page Angela , Daly Kerry , Anderson Joanna , Thraves Genevieve
Published: July 2022

The Paralympics is globally the largest and most significant sporting event that takes place for athletes with a disability. The 2020 Tokyo Games was heralded as significant in its extensive media coverage that served to promote the disability athletic movement, breaking all broadcasting viewing records from the number of broadcasters, viewers, and a number of events provided live. In the past, however, media reporting of the Paralympic Games has not been without controversy. Stereotypical representations of disability, for example, have often been cited). These involve representations such as framing disability as something to be overcome; where athletes ‘participate’ rather than ‘compete’; and for those with adaptive technology, being portrayed as ‘cyborgs’, rather than as competitive athletes. This article has been driven by the curiosity to determine if media depictions of Paralympic athletes have improved over time. We wished to explore the current representations of the print and television coverage in Australia of the 2020 Tokyo games. Our research found that media coverage did, for the most part, provide coverage of events where Paralympians were represented as athletes first and their disability second. Despite this positive outcome, stereotypes prevailed in both print and television reporting. These included minimalising a person's disability, often to the point of making the disability invisible; focussing on overcoming tragedy; using inspirational language to position athletes as advocates for the disability; the use of patronising language; and the positioning of athletes as needing to be grateful. We conclude that whilst the media in Australia has made significant steps towards representing Paralympians as elite athletes, continued attention and primary focus needs to be given to the athlete’s first narrative.
Investigating grit in second language learning: The role of individual difference factors and background variables
Authors: Pawlak Mirosław , Csizér Kata , Kruk Mariusz , Zawodniak Joanna
Published: July 2022

Grit is among the individual difference (ID) variables that have recently come to the attention of researchers investigating second language acquisition. While some empirical evidence has been accumulated, it is clearly scant and limited, also because of the fact that many studies have looked into domain-general grit rather than this attribute as related to learning second or foreign languages. The present article seeks to fill this gap by reporting the findings of a study which has investigated the relationships among grit and a number of other ID factors, that is, domain-general grit, intended effort, language learning enjoyment, and language learning curiosity, as well as background variables, such as age, gender, year of study and experience in learning the target language. Correlational analyses, regression analyses, independent samples and paired t-tests, as well as one way ANOVAs were run on the data collected from 99 Polish students majoring in English. The main finding was that while language learning enjoyment is a direct predictor of L2 grit for younger students, general grit only enters the picture in the case of older students, being itself predicted by enjoyment. The results serve as a basis for the assumption that L2 grit is distinct from general grit, its levels may differ for different languages being learnt and it is likely to be malleable.
Evaluation of the mechanisms of heme-induced tissue factor activation: Contribution of innate immune pathways
Authors: Hounkpe Bidossessi Wilfried , Moraes Carla Roberta Peachazepi , Lanaro Carolina , Santos Magnun Nueldo Nunes , Costa Fernando Ferreira , De Paula Erich Vinicius
Published: July 2022

Hemolytic diseases such as Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) are characterized by a natural propensity for both arterial and venous thrombosis. The ability of heme to induce tissue factor (TF) activation has been shown both in animal models of SCD, and in human endothelial cells and monocytes. Moreover, it was recently demonstrated that heme can induce coagulation activation in the whole blood of healthy volunteers in a TF-dependent fashion. Herein, we aim to further explore the cellular mechanisms by which heme induces TF-coagulation activation, using human mononuclear cells, which have been shown to be relevant to in vivo hemostasis. TF mRNA expression was evaluated by qPCR and TF procoagulant activity was evaluated using a 2-stage assay based on the generation of activated factor X (FXa). Heme was capable of inducing both TF expression and activation in a TLR4-dependent pathway. This activity was further amplified after TNF-α-priming. Our results provide additional details on the mechanisms by which heme is involved in the pathogenesis of hypercoagulability in hemolytic diseases.
Suficiente, Enough: Reckoning With the Complexities of a Colonial Past That Racializes LatinXs as MestizXs
Authors: García-Louis Claudia
Published: July 2022

The author provided a brief exploration into the origins of racial/ethnic categories and facilitated a linkage between a colonial past and the present. She encouraged educational researchers and practitioners to adopt an understanding of Latinidad beyond a pan-ethnic model of identity by making critical colonial connections. She underscored how coloniality permeates educational structures, pedagogical practices, and the foundations of scholarship development that subjugate LatinX students to view themselves through the eyes of the colonizer.
Arithmetic operations without symbols are unimpaired in adults with math anxiety
Authors: Zaleznik Eli , Comeau Olivia , Park Joonkoo
Published: July 2022

This study characterises a previously unstudied facet of a major causal model of math anxiety. The model posits that impaired “basic number abilities” can lead to math anxiety, but what constitutes a basic number ability remains underdefined. Previous work has raised the idea that our perceptual ability to represent quantities approximately without using symbols constitutes one of the basic number abilities. Indeed, several recent studies tested how participants with math anxiety estimate and compare non-symbolic quantities. However, little is known about how participants with math anxiety perform arithmetic operations (addition and subtraction) on non-symbolic quantities. This is an important question because poor arithmetic performance on symbolic numbers is one of the primary signatures of high math anxiety. To test the question, we recruited 92 participants and asked them to complete a math anxiety survey, two measures of working memory, a timed symbolic arithmetic test, and a non-symbolic “approximate arithmetic” task. We hypothesised that if impaired ability to perform operations was a potential causal factor to math anxiety, we should see relationships between math anxiety and both symbolic and approximate arithmetic. However, if math anxiety relates to precise or symbolic representation, only a relationship between math anxiety and symbolic arithmetic should appear. Our results show no relationship between math anxiety and the ability to perform operations with approximate quantities, suggesting that difficulties performing perceptually based arithmetic operations do not constitute a basic number ability linked to math anxiety.
Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction in Women With Depression: Need for Psychosexual Health Promotion Approach
Authors: Chandel Surbhi , Kumar Rajesh , Rohilla Jitendra
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

Depression-associated sexual dysfunction (SD) is a pervasive and ignorant problem among the general population. The antidepressant used to treat depression may further alter the sexual response cycle in one way or another. This study aims to assess the prevalence of SD in females with major depressive disorders and the effects of antidepressant therapy after 4 weeks of follow-ups.

Material and Methods:

In a prospective observational survey, 94 women diagnosed with depression and on antidepressant therapy were purposively enrolled. Female Sexual Functioning Index (FSFI) and Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) are administered at baseline and 4 weeks of treatment to measure sexual function and depression changes. Relevant descriptive and inferential statistics are applied to compute the results.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 35.87 (±5.10) years. A total of 95.7% of participants showed SD at baseline assessment. There was a significant difference (31.87 vs 18.51, P < .001) in depression from baselines to 4 weeks after antidepressant therapy. Further, a significant negative correlation was reported between the MADRS scores and the scores of arousals (r = −0.396, P < .001), lubrication (r = −0.453, P < .001), orgasm (r = −0.342, P < .001), satisfaction (r = −0.407, P < .001), pain (r = −0.362, P < .001), and total domains of FSFI (r = −0.412, P < .001) after 4 weeks. Using cut-off scores of different areas, decreased sexual desire was reported in 97.9%, poor vaginal lubrication (100%), a problem with arousal (100%), reduced satisfaction (96.8%), reduced ability to achieve orgasm (100%), and pain during sexual intercourse in 100% of the participants.

Conclusions:

There is a high prevalence of SD in women with depression. There is a marked improvement in depression at the end of 4 weeks. However, sexual function status remains unchanged and indicates the need for time to improve, suggesting different study designs.
Effect of asthma management with exhaled nitric oxideversususual care on perinatal outcomes
Authors: Murphy Vanessa E. , Jensen Megan E. , Holliday Elizabeth G. , Giles Warwick B. , Barrett Helen L. , Callaway Leonie K. , Bisits Andrew , Peek Michael J. , Seeho Sean K. , Abbott Alistair , Robijn Annelies L. , Colditz Paul B. , Searles Andrew , Attia John , McCaffery Kirsten , Hensley Michael J. , Mattes Joerg , Gibson Peter G.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Asthma exacerbations in pregnancy are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. We aimed to determine whether fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO)-based asthma management improves perinatal outcomes compared to usual care.

Methods

The Breathing for Life Trial was a multicentre, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial conducted in six hospital antenatal clinics, which compared asthma management guided byFENO(adjustment of asthma treatment according to exhaled nitric oxide and symptoms each 6–12 weeks) to usual care (no treatment adjustment as part of the trial). The primary outcome was a composite of adverse perinatal events (preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA), perinatal mortality or neonatal hospitalisation) assessed using hospital records. Secondary outcomes included maternal asthma exacerbations. Concealed random allocation, stratified by study site and self-reported smoking status was used, with blinded outcome assessment and statistical analysis (intention to treat).

Results

Pregnant women with current asthma were recruited; 599 to the control group (608 infants) and 601 to the intervention (615 infants). There were no significant group differences for the primary composite perinatal outcome (152 (25.6%) out of 594 control, 177 (29.4%) out of 603 intervention; OR 1.21, 95% CI 0.94–1.56; p=0.15), preterm birth (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.78–1.68), SGA (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.78–1.68), perinatal mortality (OR 3.62, 95% CI 0.80–16.5), neonatal hospitalisation (OR 1.24, 95% CI 0.89–1.72) or maternal asthma exacerbations requiring hospital admission or emergency department presentation (OR 1.19, 95% CI 0.69–2.05).

Conclusion

FENO-guided asthma pharmacotherapy delivered by a nurse or midwife in the antenatal clinic setting did not improve perinatal outcomes.
Practical application of a Bayesian network approach to poultry epigenetics and stress
Authors: Videla Rodriguez Emiliano A. , Pértille Fábio , Guerrero-Bosagna Carlos , Mitchell John B. O. , Jensen Per , Smith V. Anne
Published: July 2022

Background

Relationships among genetic or epigenetic features can be explored by learning probabilistic networks and unravelling the dependencies among a set of given genetic/epigenetic features. Bayesian networks (BNs) consist of nodes that represent the variables and arcs that represent the probabilistic relationships between the variables. However, practical guidance on how to make choices among the wide array of possibilities in Bayesian network analysis is limited. Our study aimed to apply a BN approach, while clearly laying out our analysis choices as an example for future researchers, in order to provide further insights into the relationships among epigenetic features and a stressful condition in chickens (Gallus gallus).

Results

Chickens raised under control conditions (n = 22) and chickens exposed to a social isolation protocol (n = 24) were used to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs). A total of 60 DMRs were selected by a threshold, after bioinformatic pre-processing and analysis. The treatment was included as a binary variable (control = 0; stress = 1). Thereafter, a BN approach was applied: initially, a pre-filtering test was used for identifying pairs of features that must not be included in the process of learning the structure of the network; then, the average probability values for each arc of being part of the network were calculated; and finally, the arcs that were part of the consensus network were selected. The structure of the BN consisted of 47 out of 61 features (60 DMRs and the stressful condition), displaying 43 functional relationships. The stress condition was connected to two DMRs, one of them playing a role in tight and adhesive intracellular junctions in organs such as ovary, intestine, and brain.

Conclusions

We clearly explain our steps in making each analysis choice, from discrete BN models to final generation of a consensus network from multiple model averaging searches. The epigenetic BN unravelled functional relationships among the DMRs, as well as epigenetic features in close association with the stressful condition the chickens were exposed to. The DMRs interacting with the stress condition could be further explored in future studies as possible biomarkers of stress in poultry species.
The impact of HIV infection on the frequencies, function, spatial localization and heterogeneity of T follicular regulatory cells (TFRs) within human lymph nodes
Authors: Mahlobo Bongiwe , Laher Faatima , Smidt Werner , Ogunshola Funsho , Khaba Trevor , Nkosi Thandeka , Mbatha Anele , Ngubane Thandekile , Dong Krista , Jajbhay Ismail , Pansegrouw Johan , Ndhlovu Zaza M.
Published: July 2022

Background

HIV eradication efforts have been unsuccessful partly due to virus persistence in immune sanctuary sites such as germinal centres within lymph node (LN) tissues. Recent evidence suggests that LNs harbour a novel subset of regulatory T cells, termed follicular regulatory T cells (TFRs), but their role in HIV pathogenesis is not fully elucidated.

Results

Paired excisional LN and peripheral blood samples obtained from 20 HIV-uninfected and 31 HIV-infected treated and 7 chronic untreated, were used to determine if and how HIV infection modulate frequencies, function and spatial localization of TFRs within LN tissues. Imaging studies showed that most TFRs are localized in extra-follicular regions. Co-culture assays showed TFRs suppression of TFH help to B cells. Importantly, epigenetic and transcriptional studies identified DPP4 and FCRL3 as novel phenotypic markers that define four functionally distinct TFR subpopulations in human LNs regardless of HIV status. Imaging studies confirmed the regulatory phenotype of DPP4+TFRs.

Conclusion

Together these studies describe TFRs dynamic changes during HIV infection and reveal previously underappreciated TFR heterogeneity within human LNs.
Anti-dipeptidyl-peptidase-like protein 6 encephalitis with pure cerebellar ataxia: a case report
Authors: Lin Jing , Zhu Min , Mao Xiaocheng , Jin Zeqing , Zhou Meihong , Hong Daojun
Published: July 2022

Background

Anti-dipeptidyl-peptidase-like protein 6 (DPPX) encephalitis is a rare autoimmune encephalitis. The clinical symptoms of anti-DPPX encephalitis are often severe, manifested as diarrhea/weight loss, central nervous system hyperexcitability and cognitive dysfunction.

Case presentation

An 18-year-old boy was admitted for 1-week-long cerebellar symptoms including dizziness, unsteady gait and frequent vomiting. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) displayed no abnormal findings. However, autoimmune encephalitis panel revealed anti-DPPX antibody was positive in the serum. This patient completely recovered after immunoglobulin and corticoids therapy. In addition, repeat serum antibody test for DPPX was negative within one month.

Conclusion

In addition to the classic triad, anti-DPPX encephalitis may manifest as mild and rare symptoms due to lower antibody titers. Fast identification of rare symptoms can help to quickly diagnosis and effective treatment.
Differences in cognition, short-chain fatty acids and related metabolites in pregnant versus non-pregnant women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Luo Huijuan , Li Wengxiang , Wu Lulu , Zhong Shuming , Du Chengrong , Liu Yimeng , Xu Yating , Huang Xinyu , Bahru Awol Hanan , Tang Xiaomei , Zhou Juan , Wang Dongju , Lou Xiangying , Bin Xuefan , Xiao Xiaomin
Published: July 2022

Background

Pregnancy induces cognitive reorganization which can lead to mental disorders. The aim of this study is to determine differences in cognitive scores, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and related metabolites between pregnant and non-pregnant participants.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 67 full-term pregnant women and 31 non-pregnant women. We compared scores of mental state and cognitive assessment tests, as well as serum concentrations of SCFAs, hormones, inflammatory factors, and neurotransmitters between these groups.

Results

Scores for information processing speed, immediate visual memory, motor response speed and accuracy, execution ability and verbal use ability in the pregnant group were lower than those in the non-pregnant group (p < 0.05 for all tests). Total serum SCFAs in the pregnant group were significantly lower than those in the non-pregnant group (P = 0.031). Among them, acetate and propionate were significantly decreased (P = 0.013 and 0.037, respectively) whereas butyrate was significantly increased (P = 0.035). Serum peptide YY, glucagon-like peptide-1, γ-aminobutyric acid, and dopamine showed no differences between the two groups. However, cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and acetylcholine were significantly increased in the pregnant group as compared with the non-pregnant group (P = 0.039, 0.016, and 0.012, respectively). Tumor necrosis factor-α was increased and interleukin-10 significantly decreased in the pregnant group (P = 0.045 and 0.019, respectively).

Conclusion

According to our study findings, cognitive reorganization in the third trimester of pregnancy showed that both the passive storage capacity of working memory and the executive function of online information processing were decreased to varying degrees. At the same time, the changes in total SCFAs, the proportions of SCFAs and related metabolites were also detected. These changes in the internal environment may be increasing the risk of perinatal mental illness.
Comparison of clinical outcomes with proximal femoral nail anti-rotation versus bipolar hemiarthroplasty for the treatment of elderly unstable comminuted intertrochanteric fractures
Authors: Song Qi-Chun , Dang Sha-Jie , Zhao Yan , Wei Ling , Duan Da-Peng , Wei Wen-Bo
Published: July 2022

Background

Although proximal femoral nail anti-rotation (PFNA) and bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BHA) are selected by most of the orthopaedic surgeons for elderly intertrochanteric fractures (ITFs) patients, there is still no consensus on the superiority of PFNA and BPH for the elderly with unstable comminuted ITFs. The study aims to compare the curative effects of PFNA and cementless BHA on unstable comminuted ITFs in the elderly.

Methods

From January 2012 to December 2016, we retrospectively reviewed 62 ITFs patients up to the inclusion and exclusion criteria in the study. Depending on the type of surgery, the patients were divided into two groups: Group BHA (n= 30) and Group PFNA (n = 32). The ITFs were classified according to Evans-Jensen. Hospitalization time, operation time, bleeding loss, weight bearing duration, Harris hip scores, 10-m walking speed, gait and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups.

Results

There was no significant difference between the groups in hospital stay (P > 0.05). The BHA group trended to have a shorter operation time and a larger volume of blood loss (P < 0.01).The weight bearing duration was shorter in the BHA group than the PFNA group (P < 0.05).The Harris hip score was higher, the 10-m walking speed was faster and the gait was better in group BHA than group PFNA at three months postoperatively (P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between the two groups at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative complications between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The BHA allows an earlier return to weight-bearing activity, but ultimately has the same effective treatments as the PFNA for the elderly with unstable comminuted ITFs.
The pathway to residency in Germany: a survey study to identify factors that impact an international medical graduate from Syria
Authors: Saadoun Rakan , Risse Eva-Maria , Sadoun Leen , Surucu Yusuf , Bittar Ranim , Heshma Mhd Anas , Obermueller Theresa
Published: July 2022

Background

The German health care system has recently become an attractive destination for international medical graduates, particularly from developing countries such as Syria. However, there are no studies about the factors that influence the successful entry into the German healthcare system at trainee level. 

Method 

An anonymous cross-sectional survey was distributed electronically to Syrian medical graduates who successfully entered residency training in Germany. Collected data included demographics and factors that influence entering the residency, such as proven German proficiency and clinical experience in the home country. Hypothesis testing was used to assess the difference between the variables.

Results

A total of 109 participants responded to the survey. Twenty-three (21.1%) subjects completed a medical residency in Syria before moving to Germany, and 46 (42.2%) had no previous clinical experience before moving to Germany. The proven German proficiency of the participants upon arrival in Germany was less than B1 in 39 (35.8%), B1 in 37 (33.9%), and B2 in 33 (30.3%) cases. None of the participants had a language level beyond B2, and 18 (16.5%) had no German knowledge.

The median of months spent in Germany till residency for those with B1 or B2 certificates before moving to Germany (10.5 (6.25–16) months and 8 (5–11) months, respectively) differed significantly from those with German-language skills belowB1 ((21 (14–29) months, p < .001). Residency in the home country was not associated with a difference in the median of the months in Germany till entering residency, p = 0.84.

Conclusion

A crucial factor influencing the successful entry to the German medical system at the trainee level is the ability to speak German, measured in levels based on the Common European Framework of Reference for languages. A high language skill level is a crucial factor associated with a decrease in time in Germany till entering residency for an international medical applicant. In contrast, previous work experience is not influencing the entry into the German labor market.
Practice of code of ethics and associated factors among health professionals in Central Gondar Zone public hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021: a mixed-method study design
Authors: Yeshineh Gebreyohannes , Feleke Amsalu , Tadie Chalie , Hagos Asebe , Debebe Wubshet , Teshale Getachew , Yazachew Lake
Published: July 2022

Background

Ethics is the science of moral and ethical rules recognised in human life and attempts to verify what is morally right and wrong. Healthcare ethics is seen as an integrated part of the daily activities of health facilities. Healthcare professionals’ standardisation and uniformity in healthcare ethics are urgent and basic requirements. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the practice of the code of ethics and associated factors among health professionals in Central Gondar Zone public hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study design with a mixed method was conducted on 631 health professionals from Central Gondar Zone public hospitals. For the quantitative part, pre-tested self-administered questionnaires were used, and for the qualitative part, key informant interviews with a semi-structured questionnaire were used. Variables with apvalue of < 0.2 in binary logistic regression entered into a multivariable logistic regression, thenpvalue < 0.05 and AOR were used to declare statistically significant variables in quantitative data. A thematic content analysis was used for qualitative data analysis.

Results

This study revealed that only 286 (46.7%) health professionals had good practice of the code of ethics. Good ethical knowledge (AOR = 1.95, 95% CI 1.37, 2.77), favourable attitude (AOR = 1.55, 95% CI 1.11, 2.16), and satisfaction of health professionals with their jobs (AOR = 1.45, 95% CI (1.04, 2.04) were significantly associated with the practice of health care ethics.

Conclusions

Health professionals' overall level of practice of health care ethics in the Central Gondar Zone public hospitals was poor. This necessitates practical training, ongoing follow-up, availing of necessary medical equipment, a smooth working environment, and modification of the recognition system for health professionals.
Baccalaureate nursing students’ experiences of how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced learning – a mixed method study
Authors: Rohde Gudrun , Johannessen Berit , Maaseide Markus , Flateland Sylvi , Skisland Anne V. , Moi Ellen B. , Haraldstad Kristin
Published: July 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic mandated the reconstruction of educational programs globally. For nursing students in need of practical learning and training as a part of their curriculum, the pandemic also caused restrictions and alterations in practical placements and limited access to simulation training at campuses. The aim of this study is therefore, to describe and explore how the COVID- 19 pandemic influenced baccalaureate nursing students’ experiences of learning and their social life as a student.

Method

We used a mixed method study design including quantitative data from one of the universities (University of Agder) from a national Norwegian survey of baccalaureate nursing students and qualitative data from focus-group interviews from the same university. The quantitative survey included 396 baccalaureate nursing students (response rate, 46%). We arranged five focus groups with a total of 23 students (15 females and 8 males). The students took part in one of the focus-group interviews. The quantitative data were analyzed using chi-square test for categorical data and ANOVA tests for continuous data, while the qualitative data were analyzed using Systematic Text Condensation and an editing analysis style.

Results

Most students (70%) were concerned about the quality of the education program. In clinical placement, 83% of students had cared for patients with confirmed COVID-19 or unclear COVID-19 status. The qualitative data revealed three main themes: missing the social dimension of learning; worries and challenges in clinical placement; and experiencing normal instructive days in clinical placement. The general picture emerging from our analysis is the importance of social interactions for learning.

Conclusion

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, our findings of students’ worries about the quality of the education program and not reaching learning outcomes must be taken into consideration. Social interaction is considered crucial and fundamental for student learning. A follow-up study following baccalaureate completion is necessary to explore the consequences over time of disrupted education.
Mediation effects of thyroid function in the associations between phthalate exposure and lipid metabolism in adults
Authors: Huang Han-Bin , Cheng Po-Keng , Siao Chi-Ying , Lo Yuan-Ting C. , Chou Wei-Chun , Huang Po-Chin
Published: July 2022

Phthalates are a group of industrial chemicals widely used in everyday products including cosmetics, food packaging and containers, plastics, and building materials. Previous studies have indicated that urinary phthalate metabolites are associated with metabolic effects including those on lipid metabolism, but the results are mixed. Furthermore, whether thyroid function mediates the association between phthalate exposure and lipid metabolism remains unclear. In the present study, we explored whether changes in thyroid function markers mediate the associations between phthalate exposure and lipid metabolism indicators in Taiwanese adults. The cross-sectional data were obtained from the Taiwan Environmental Survey for Toxicants conducted in 2013. Levels of 11 urinary phthalate metabolites, levels of 5 thyroid hormones, and 8 indicators of lipid metabolism were assessed in 222 Taiwanese adults. The relationships of urinary phthalate metabolite levels with serum thyroid hormone levels and lipid metabolism indicators were explored using multiple regression models. Mediation analysis was conducted to evaluate the role of thyroid function in the association between phthalate exposure and lipid metabolism. The metabolite of di(− 2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (∑DEHPm) exhibited a significant positive association with the lipid metabolite indicator of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C; β = 0.059, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.009, 0.109) in adults, and the thyroid function indicator thyroxine (T4) had a significant negative association with the metabolite ∑DEHPm (β = − 0.059, 95% CI = − 0.101, − 0.016) and a significant negative association with HDL-C (β = − 0.284, 95% CI = − 0.440, − 0.128). The T4 indirect effect was 0.015 (95% CI = − 0.0087, 0.05), and the mediation effect was 32.2%. Our results support the assumption that exposure to phthalates influences the homeostasis of lipid metabolism by interfering with thyroid function.
How is the ecosystem services concept used as a tool to foster collaborative ecosystem governance? A systematic map protocol
Authors: Holzer Jennifer M. , Hobbs Imogen , Baird Julia , Hickey Gordon
Published: July 2022

Background

While the concept of ecosystem services has been widely adopted by scholars and increasingly used in policy and practice, there has been criticism of its usefulness to decision-makers. This systematic map will collect and analyse literature that frames ES as a collaboration tool, rather than as an ecosystem assessment tool, to answer the research question—how is the ecosystem services concept used as a tool to foster collaborative ecosystem governance and management?

Methods

We will search for publications using designated keywords in Web of Science Core Collection, Scopus, grey literature and conservation practitioner databases and websites. The search strategy aims to locate all ecosystem services studies related to collaboration and joint activities. After removing duplicates, we will screen papers in two stages—first by reviewing titles and abstracts and then by reviewing full text. Both stages will screen papers according to the following inclusion criteria: (1) the study is situated in the context of or related to environmental governance or management; (2) the study focuses on ecosystem services being used as a tool for collaboration; (3) the study describes a process resulting from applying the ecosystem services concept as a tool or approach; and (4) the ecosystem services concept is used in the study in a collaboration or group process in a substantial manner. We will exclude papers that do not address the ES concept as a process tool or approach or that use the ecosystem services concept to directly influence specific decisions or policy. Eligible studies will be critically appraised to assess their reporting quality. Studies will then be reviewed to determine: (a) the type of tool or mechanism that is the primary focus or example of the paper, (b) the rationale for using the ES concept, (c) whether a tool or approach was empirically tested in the study, (d) what the study found regarding the usefulness of ES as a tool or approach, and (e) any challenges to their use, if mentioned explicitly. A standard coding spreadsheet will be used by reviewers. Relevant metadata will be extracted for each paper assessed and used to construct an open-access online database. Finally, a narrative synthesis of metadata will be reported based on eligible studies.
Defensive gun use: What can we learn from news reports?
Authors: Hemenway David , Shawah Chloe , Lites Elizabeth
Published: July 2022

Background

In the past decade, most people who buy and own guns are doing so for self-defense. Yet little is known about actual defensive gun use in the USA.

Methods

To discover what information newspaper articles and local news reports might add, we read the news reports of defensive use incidents assembled by the Gun Violence Archive. We examined a sample of more than a quarter of the incidents from 2019, the last year before the pandemic. We examined all cases from four months—January, April, July, and October. We created a typology of defensive gun use incidents.

Results

Of 418 incidents, in about half, the perpetrator was armed with a firearm. In almost 90% of the cases, the victim fired their firearm—315 perpetrators were shot and about half of them died. The average number of perpetrators shot per incident was 0.75; the average number of victims shot was 0.25. We estimate that in 2019 fewer than 600 potential perpetrators were killed in defensive gun use incidents that made the news. Among the thirteen categories of shooting were drug-related (4% of incidents), gang-like combat (6%), romantic partner disputes (11%), escalating arguments (13%), store robberies (9%), street robberies (5%), unoccupied vehicle theft (5%), unarmed burglaries (7%), home invasions (20%), and miscellaneous (6%).

Conclusion

We believe the Gun Violence Archive dataset includes the large majority of news reports of defensive gun use—and especially those in which the perpetrator is shot and dies. Some of the strengths of using news reports as a data source are that we can be certain that the incident occurred, and the reports provide us with a story behind the incident, one usually vetted in part by the police with occasional input from the victims, perpetrator, family, witnesses, or neighbors. Defensive gun use situations are quite diverse, and among the various categories of defensive gun use, a higher percentage of incidents in some of the categories seemed far less likely to be socially beneficial (e.g., drug-related, gang-like, escalating arguments) than in others (e.g., home invasions).
The influence of corneal ablation patterns on prediction error after cataract surgery in post-myopic-LASIK eyes
Authors: Yao Yunqian , Zhao Jing , Yu Jifeng , He Wenwen , Wei Ling , Zhou Xingtao , Lu Yi , Zhu Xiangjia
Published: July 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of corneal ablation patterns on the prediction error after cataract surgery in post-myopic-LASIK eyes.

Methods

Eighty-three post-myopic-LASIK eyes of 83 patients that underwent uneventful cataract surgery were retrospectively included. Predicted postoperative spherical equivalence (SE) was calculated for the implanted lens using the Haigis-L and Barrett True-K formula. Prediction error at one month postsurgery was calculated as actual SE minus predicted SE. For each eye, area and decentration of the ablation zone was measured using the tangential curvature map. The associations between prediction errors and corneal ablation patterns were investigated.

Results

The mean prediction error was − 0.83 ± 1.00 D with the Haigis-L formula and − 1.00 ± 0.99 D with the Barrett True-K formula. Prediction error was positively correlated with keratometry (K) value and negatively correlated with ablation zone area using either formula, and negatively correlated with decentration of the ablation zone using the Barrett True-K formula (all P < 0.05). In the K < 37.08 D group, prediction error was negatively correlated with decentration of the ablation zone with both formulas (all P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that with the Haigis-L formula, prediction error was associated with axial length (AL), K value and decentration, and with the Barrett True-K formula, prediction error was associated with AL and decentration (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

A flatter cornea, larger corneal ablation zone and greater decentration will lead to more myopic prediction error after cataract surgery in post-myopic-LASIK eyes.
Digital portfolio and self-regulation in speaking tasks
Authors: Al-Hawamleh Maher S. , Alazemi Asmaa F. , Al-Jamal Dina A. H.
Published: July 2022

Self-regulated learning has been recognized as helpful in language learning. This study showed how self-regulated learning contributes to stimulating students’ speaking skills. In an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) setting, speaking is generally perceived as a challenging task requiring actions, skills, or strategies to achieve successful communication. As the actions, skills, or strategies feature learners' planning in class, digital portfolios substantially impact language learning. This study examined the impact on Kuwaiti female students' self-regulation processes during speaking tasks in EFL classes. The main results that pervaded were the anticipation, realization, and reflection phases in speaking tasks. Results have shown that self-regulated learners can speak successfully when they understand and regulate what they do with a speaking task.