bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relationships of lower extremity and trunk asymmetries in elite soccer players
Authors: Maly Tomas , Hank Mikulas , Verbruggen Ferdia Fallon , Clarup Christian , Phillips Kirk , Zahalka Frantisek , Mala Lucia , Ford Kevin R. 
Published: February 2024

In light of previous research highlighting the prevalence of asymmetries in soccer players and possible links to injury risks, there is a crucial gap in the biomechanical understanding of complex relationships between lower extremity and trunk asymmetries in elite soccer players. The purpose of this study was to investigate the level, relationships, and differences among twelve different parameters of strength, morphological, and neuromuscular asymmetries in elite soccer players.Methods: Elite male soccer players (n = 25, age 21.7 ± 3.9 years) were tested in the following tests: bilateral fluid distribution, hip flexor range of motion, postural stability, isokinetic strength of knee extensors and flexors, isometric lateral trunk rotation strength, eccentric strength of knee flexors, isometric bilateral strength of hip adductors, and vertical ground reaction force in counter-movement jump-free arms, counter-movement jump, squat jump, and drop jump tests. One-way ANOVA, Pearson’s coefficient (r), and partial eta squared (ηp2) were used for data analysis.Results: Significant differences in asymmetries were found in elite soccer players (F11,299 = 11.01, p &lt; .01). The magnitude of asymmetry over 10% was in postural stability and drop jump parameters. The lowest magnitudes of asymmetries were in the fluid distribution of the lower limbs and the vertical ground reaction force during the take-off phase in squat jumps. The highest asymmetries between the dominant and non-dominant sides were found in postural stability and drop jump. A total of eleven significant correlations (p &lt; 0.05, r = 0.41–0.63, R2 = 0.17–0.40) were detected between the analyzed asymmetries in elite soccer players. The lateral trunk rotation asymmetries were significantly correlated to vertical ground reaction force asymmetries and knee extensors.Conclusion: Long-term exposure in elite soccer leads to unilateral biomechanical loading that induces abnormal strength and morphological adaptations in favor of the dominant side while linking lower limb and trunk strength asymmetries. By unraveling these complex relationships, we strive to contribute novel methods that could inform targeted training regimens and injury prevention strategies in the elite soccer community. The data should encourage future researchers and coaches to monitor and develop trunk strength linked to lower body kinematics.
Quantitative measurements of reactive oxygen species partitioning in electron transfer flavoenzyme magnetic field sensing
Authors: Austvold Chase K. , Keable Stephen M. , Procopio Maria , Usselman Robert J. 
Published: February 2024

Biological magnetic field sensing that gives rise to physiological responses is of considerable importance in quantum biology. The radical pair mechanism (RPM) is a fundamental quantum process that can explain some of the observed biological magnetic effects. In magnetically sensitive radical pair (RP) reactions, coherent spin dynamics between singlet and triplet pairs are modulated by weak magnetic fields. The resulting singlet and triplet reaction products lead to distinct biological signaling channels and cellular outcomes. A prevalent RP in biology is between flavin semiquinone and superoxide (O2•−) in the biological activation of molecular oxygen. This RP can result in a partitioning of reactive oxygen species (ROS) products to form either O2•− or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Here, we examine magnetic sensing of recombinant human electron transfer flavoenzyme (ETF) reoxidation by selectively measuring O2•− and H2O2 product distributions. ROS partitioning was observed between two static magnetic fields at 20 nT and 50 μT, with a 13% decrease in H2O2 singlet products and a 10% increase in O2•− triplet products relative to 50 µT. RPM product yields were calculated for a realistic flavin/superoxide RP across the range of static magnetic fields, in agreement with experimental results. For a triplet born RP, the RPM also predicts about three times more O2•− than H2O2, with experimental results exhibiting about four time more O2•− produced by ETF. The method presented here illustrates the potential of a novel magnetic flavoprotein biological sensor that is directly linked to mitochondria bioenergetics and can be used as a target to study cell physiology.
Friendship and self-harm: a retrospective qualitative study of young adults' experiences of supporting a friend who self-harmed during adolescence
Authors: Bilello Delfina , Townsend Ellen , Broome Matthew R. , Burnett Heyes Stephanie 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionSelf-harm amongst young people is becoming increasingly prevalent. Understanding, responding to, and supporting young people who self-harm is vital. Friends are typically the first and sometimes the only source of support sought by adolescents who self-harm. Despite their important role as confidants, friends' perspectives and experiences remain poorly understood.MethodsWe conducted retrospective qualitative semi-structured interviews, prompted by an adapted version of the Card Sort Task for Self-Harm (CaTS-FF), about the experiences of nine female young adults (18-20 years old) who supported a friend who self-harmed during adolescence. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsFour themes were developed: (1) “I did not realize my friend was on the road to self-harm”: Friends' reactions to self-harm; (2) “That's what friends do”: the role of friends; (3) The impact of supporting a friend who self-harms; and (4) “They were quite formative years”: reflecting on growth through the experience.DiscussionThe present findings highlight the complex experiences of young people supporting a friend who self-harms. Despite being willing to take on the role of a supporter, participants experienced a range of difficult emotions and consequences. The temporal transition running through the four themes reflects the evolving nature of participants' attitudes, knowledge, and friendships. Overall, results highlight the unmet needs of adolescents supporting young people who self-harm, as well as identifying potential pathways to “support the supporters” toward resilience.
Determinants promoting and hindering physical activity in primary school children in Germany: a qualitative study with students, teachers and parents
Authors: Sell Louisa , Brandes Berit , Brandes Mirko , Zeeb Hajo , Busse Heide 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundDeterminants affecting children’s physical activity (PA) at an early age are of particular interest to develop and strengthen strategies for increasing the levels of children’s PA. A qualitative study was conducted to investigate the views of primary school-aged children, their teachers and parents regarding barriers and facilitators to engage in PA.MethodsFocus groups were conducted separately with primary school children, parents and teachers in a city in Northern Germany between October 2021 and January 2022. The semi- structured focus groups with children and teachers took part in person within school, whereas the focus groups with parents took place online. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. During analysis, the socio-ecological model was identified as useful to map the determinants mentioned and was consequently applied to organize the data.ResultsTeachers (n = 10), parents (n = 18) and children (n = 46) of five primary schools in Germany participated in the focus groups. Participants of the three groups identified similar barriers and facilitators of PA in primary school-aged children, ranging across all four layers of the socio-ecological model. The barriers encountered were the preferences of children for sedentary activities (individual characteristics), the preference of parents to control their child’s actions (microsystem), a lack of financial resources from parents and long sitting times in class (mesosystem), and barriers related to rainy weather and Covid-19 restrictions (exosystem). Facilitators mentioned were the childrens’ natural tendency to be active (individual characteristics), involvement and co-participation of parents or peers in engaging in PA, support provided by teachers and the school (microsystem), living in rural areas, having sufficient facilities and favorable weather conditions (exosystem).ConclusionA range of determinants promoting and hindering PA, ranging across all layers of the socio-ecological model were identified by children, parents and teachers in this study. These determinants need to be kept in mind when developing effective PA intervention programs for primary school-aged children. Future interventions should go beyond individual characteristics to also acknowledge the influence of childrens’ social surrounding, including parents, peers and teachers, and the wider (school) environment.
Serological screening in a large-scale municipal survey in Cascais, Portugal, during the first waves of the COVID-19 pandemic: lessons for future pandemic preparedness efforts
Authors: Seabra Sofia G. , Merca Francisco , Pereira Bernardo , Fonseca Ivo , Carvalho Ana Cláudia , Brito Vera , Alves Daniela , Libin Pieter , Martins M. Rosário O. , Miranda Mafalda N. S. , Pingarilho Marta , Pimentel Victor , Abecasis Ana B. 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundSerological surveys for SARS-CoV-2 were used early in the COVID-19 pandemic to assess epidemiological scenarios. In the municipality of Cascais (Portugal), serological testing combined with a comprehensive socio-demographic, clinical and behavioral questionnaire was offered to residents between May 2020 and beginning of 2021. In this study, we analyze the factors associated with adherence to this municipal initiative, as well as the sociodemographic profile and chronic diseases clinical correlates associated to seropositivity. We aim to contribute with relevant information for future pandemic preparedness efforts.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study with non-probabilistic sampling. Citizens residing in Cascais Municipality went voluntarily to blood collection centers to participate in the serological survey. The proportion of participants, stratified by socio-demographic variables, was compared to the census proportions to identify the groups with lower levels of adherence to the survey. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify socio-demographic, clinical and behavioral factors associated with seropositivity.ResultsFrom May 2020 to February 2021, 19,608 participants (9.2% of the residents of Cascais) were included in the study. Based on the comparison to census data, groups with lower adherence to this survey were men, the youngest and the oldest age groups, individuals with lower levels of education and unemployed/inactive. Significant predictors of a reactive (positive) serological test were younger age, being employed or a student, and living in larger households. Individuals with chronic diseases generally showed lower seroprevalence.ConclusionThe groups with low adherence to this voluntary study, as well as the socio-economic contexts identified as more at risk of viral transmission, may be targeted in future pandemic situations. We also found that the individuals with chronic diseases, perceiving higher risk of serious illness, adopted protective behaviors that limited infection rates, revealing that health education on preventive measures was effective for these patients.
Assessing heterogeneity of patient and health system delay among TB in a population with internal migrants in China
Authors: Sun Ruoyao , Wu Zheyuan , Zhang Hongyin , Huang Jinrong , Liu Yueting , Chen Meiru , Lv Yixiao , Zhao Fei , Zhang Yangyi , Li Minjuan , Yan Jiaqi , Jiang Hongbing , Zhan Yiqiang , Xu Jimin , Xu Yanzi , Yuan Jianhui , Zhao Yang , Shen Xin , Yang Chongguang 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundsThe diagnostic delay of tuberculosis (TB) contributes to further transmission and impedes the implementation of the End TB Strategy. Therefore, we aimed to describe the characteristics of patient delay, health system delay, and total delay among TB patients in Shanghai, identify areas at high risk for delay, and explore the potential factors of long delay at individual and spatial levels.MethodThe study included TB patients among migrants and residents in Shanghai between January 2010 and December 2018. Patient and health system delays exceeding 14 days and total delays exceeding 28 days were defined as long delays. Time trends of long delays were evaluated by Joinpoint regression. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to analyze influencing factors of long delays. Spatial analysis of delays was conducted using ArcGIS, and the hierarchical Bayesian spatial model was utilized to explore associated spatial factors.ResultsOverall, 61,050 TB patients were notified during the study period. Median patient, health system, and total delays were 12 days (IQR: 3–26), 9 days (IQR: 4–18), and 27 days (IQR: 15–43), respectively. Migrants, females, older adults, symptomatic visits to TB-designated facilities, and pathogen-positive were associated with longer patient delays, while pathogen-negative, active case findings and symptomatic visits to non-TB-designated facilities were associated with long health system delays (LHD). Spatial analysis revealed Chongming Island was a hotspot for patient delay, while western areas of Shanghai, with a high proportion of internal migrants and industrial parks, were at high risk for LHD. The application of rapid molecular diagnostic methods was associated with reduced health system delays.ConclusionDespite a relatively shorter diagnostic delay of TB than in the other regions in China, there was vital social-demographic and spatial heterogeneity in the occurrence of long delays in Shanghai. While the active case finding and rapid molecular diagnosis reduced the delay, novel targeted interventions are still required to address the challenges of TB diagnosis among both migrants and residents in this urban setting.
Using the pedicle screw-U rod system for the treatment of double-level lumbar spondylolysis and isthmic spondylolisthesis
Authors: Jiang Jinghao , Lin Tao , Chen Xia , Gao Rui , Zhou Xuhui 
Published: February 2024

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the pedicle screw-U rod system in treating double-level lumbar spondylolysis with or without spondylolisthesis.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted. Twenty-six patients were included in this study and followed up at 3, 6, and 12 months. Patients without spondylolisthesis were treated with double U-shaped rods (group I), and patients with spondylolisthesis were treated with a lengthened U-shaped rod (group II). Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores, Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores, disc range of motion (ROM), intervertebral space height of fixed levels and adjacent levels, and grading the degeneration of adjacent segmental intervertebral discs were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively.ResultsJOA and ODI scores improved significantly at 3 months both in groups I and II. The average bone grafting healing time was 6.1 ± 3.1 months for group I and 6 ± 2.8 months for group II. The intervertebral space heights of L4/L5 and L5/S1 were improved significantly at the final follow-up (p &lt; 0.05 for both groups). Surgical segmental and adjacent segmental ROM had no significant change at the final follow-up, in comparison with data preoperatively (p &gt; 0.05). No significant changes of intervertebral space height (L3/L4) and grading of intervertebral disc degeneration were noted before and after surgery (p = 0.141 and 0.484, respectively).ConclusionsThe pedicle screw-U rod system provided advantages of being easy in repairing symptomatic double-level lumbar spondylolysis. This technique improved disabilities of patients, preserved the lumbar spine ROM, and delayed the degeneration of adjacent segments.
Classification of feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy-associated gene variants according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines
Authors: Boeykens Fréderique , Abitbol Marie , Anderson Heidi , Dargar Tanushri , Ferrari Paolo , Fox Philip R. , Hayward Jessica J. , Häggström Jens , Davison Stephen , Kittleson Mark D. , van Steenbeek Frank , Ljungvall Ingrid , Lyons Leslie A. , Longeri Maria , Ohlsson Åsa , Peelman Luc , Dufaure de Citres Caroline , Smets Pascale , Turba Maria Elena , Broeckx Bart J. G. 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionThe correct labeling of a genetic variant as pathogenic is important as breeding decisions based on incorrect DNA tests can lead to the unwarranted exclusion of animals, potentially compromising the long-term health of a population. In human medicine, the American college of Medical Genetics (ACMG) guidelines provide a framework for variant classification. This study aims to apply these guidelines to six genetic variants associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in certain cat breeds and to propose a modified criterion for variant classification.MethodsGenetic samples were sourced from five cat breeds: Maine Coon, Sphynx, Ragdoll, Devon Rex, and British Short- and Longhair. Allele frequencies were determined, and in the subset with phenotypes available, odds ratios to determine the association with HCM were calculated. In silico evaluation followed with joint evidence and data from other publications assisting in the classification of each variant.ResultsTwo variants, MYBPC3:c.91G &gt; C [A31P] and MYBPC3:c.2453C &gt; T [R818W], were designated as pathogenic. One variant, MYH7:c.5647G &gt; A [E1883K], was found likely pathogenic, while the remaining three were labeled as variants of unknown significance.DiscussionRoutine genetic testing is advised solely for the MYBPC3:c.91G &gt; C [A31P] in the Maine Coon and MYBPC3:c.2453C &gt; T [R818W] in the Ragdoll breed. The human ACMG guidelines serve as a suitable foundational tool to ascertain which variants to include; however, refining them for application in veterinary medicine might be beneficial.
Moniezia benedeni drives CD3+ T cells residence in the sheep intestinal mucosal effector sites
Authors: Chai Wenzhu , Yao Wanling , Pan Jing , Huang Zhen , Wang Baoshan , Xu Bin , Fan Xiping , He Wanhong , Wang Wenhui , Zhang Wangdong 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionT cells are the core of the cellular immunity and play a key role in the regulation of intestinal immune homeostasis. In order to explore the impact Moniezia benedeni (M. benedeni) infection on distributions of CD3+ T cells in the small intestine of the sheep.MethodsIn this study, sheep pET-28a-CD3 recombinant plasmid were constructed and expressed in BL21 receptor cells, then the rabbit anti-sheep CD3 polyclonal antibody was prepared through recombinant protein inducing. The M. benedeni-infected sheep (infection group, n = 6) and healthy sheep (control group, n = 6) were selected, and the distributions of CD3+ T cells in intestinal laminae propria (LP) and mucous epitheliums were observed and analyzed systematically.ResultsThe results showed that the rabbit anti-sheep CD3 polyclonal antibody had good potency and specificity. In the effector area of small intestine, a large number of CD3+ T cells were mainly diffusely distributed in the intestinal LP as well as in the mucous epitheliums, and the densities of intestinal LP from duodenum to jejunum to ileum were 6.01 cells/104 μm2, 7.01 cells/104 μm2 and 6.43 cells/104 μm2, respectively. Their distribution densities in mucous epitheliums were 6.71 cells/104 μm2, 7.93 cells/104 μm2 and 7.21 cells/104 μm2, respectively; in the infected group, the distributions of CD3+ T cells were similar to that of the control group, and the densities in each intestinal segment were all significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05), meanwhile, the total densities of CD3+ T cells in duodenum, jejunum and ileum were increased by 33.43%, 14.50%, and 34.19%. In LP and mucous epitheliums, it was increased by 33.57% and 27.92% in duodenum; by 25.82% and 7.07% in jejunum, and by 27.07% and 19.23% in ileum, respectively.DiscussionIt was suggested that M. benedeni infection did not change the spatial distributions of CD3+ T cells in the small intestine of sheep, but significantly increased their densities, which lays a foundation for further research on the regulatory mechanism of sheep intestinal mucosal immune system against M. benedeni infection.
Higher Donor Age and Severe Microvascular Inflammation Are Risk Factors for Chronic Rejection After Treatment of Active Antibody-Mediated Rejection
Authors: Banno Taro , Hirai Toshihito , Oki Rikako , Yagisawa Takafumi , Unagami Kohei , Kanzawa Taichi , Omoto Kazuya , Shimizu Tomokazu , Ishida Hideki , Takagi Toshio 
Published: February 2024

Recent developments in intensive desensitization protocols have enabled kidney transplantation in human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-sensitized recipients. However, cases of active antibody-mediated rejection (AABMR), when they occur, are difficult to manage, graft failure being the worst-case scenario. We aimed to assess the impact of our desensitization and AABMR treatment regimen and identify risk factors for disease progression. Among 849 patients who underwent living-donor kidney transplantation between 2014 and 2021 at our institution, 59 were diagnosed with AABMR within 1 year after transplantation. All patients received combination therapy consisting of steroid pulse therapy, intravenous immunoglobulin, rituximab, and plasmapheresis. Multivariable analysis revealed unrelated donors and preformed donor-specific antibodies as independent risk factors for AABMR. Five-year death-censored graft survival rate was not significantly different between patients with and without AABMR although 27 of 59 patients with AABMR developed chronic AABMR (CABMR) during the study period. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis revealed that a donor age greater than 59 years and microvascular inflammation (MVI) score (g + ptc) ≥4 at AABMR diagnosis were independent risk factors for CABMR. Our combination therapy ameliorated AABMR; however, further treatment options should be considered to prevent CABMR, especially in patients with old donors and severe MVI.
Argiria secundária ao uso de curativos com prata coloidal: relato de caso e revisão da literatura
Authors: Belchior Ana Clara Fernandes , Rodrigues Cesar Matheus da Silva , Da Silva Eduarda Késsia Pereira , Melo Artur Ferrer Sandres , Schwartz William Alves de Souza , Barbosa Itala Neves , de Carvalho Maíra Rocha Machado 
Published: February 2024

A argiria é uma manifestação precoce da intoxicação crônica por prata. O uso da prata como curativo para feridas crônicas é frequente na assistência a saúde pelos seus raros efeitos colaterais e ação antimicrobiana, antisséptica e anti-inflamatória. Contudo, raramente o uso tópico da prata pode ocasionar intoxicação, sendo a principal delas a pigmentação azul-acinzentada cutânea, de mucosas, ungueal ou ocular. A pigmentação ungueal, principalmente restrita a lunula (azure lunulae), configura-se como uma manifestação precoce da argiria. Trata-se de uma descoloração permanente, tornando o seu diagnóstico fundamental para impedir a progressão dessa condição. OBJETIVO: Descrever um relato de caso clínico de intoxicação por prata (argiria) em paciente em uso de curativos de prata coloidal. METODOLOGIA: Será um estudo do tipo relato de caso, trata-se, portanto, de um estudo descritivo, sem grupo controle, de caráter narrativo e reflexivo. CONCLUSÃO: O aparecimento de pigmentação específica cutânea ou ungueal, como na forma de azure lunulae deve ser monitorado em pacientes em uso de prata tópica. Além disso, devido ao potencial tóxico da prata, deve-se considerar a monitorização plasmática da prata em pacientes em tratamento tópico com produtos à base desse metal, especialmente em lesões com grande superfície de contato.