Functional Aspects Research Articles

Speech Recognition and Spatial Hearing in Young Adults With Down Syndrome: Relationships With Hearing Thresholds and Auditory Working Memory.

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) have a higher incidence of hearing loss (HL) compared with their peers without developmental disabilities. Little is known about the associations between HL and functional hearing for individuals with DS. This study investigated two aspects of auditory functions, "what" (understanding the content of sound) and "where" (localizing the source of sound), in young adults with DS. Speech reception thresholds in quiet and in the presence of interferers provided insight into speech recognition, that is, the "what" aspect of auditory maturation. Insights into "where" aspect of auditory maturation were gained from evaluating speech reception thresholds in colocated versus separated conditions (quantifying spatial release from masking) as well as right versus left discrimination and sound location identification. Auditory functions in the "where" domain develop during earlier stages of cognitive development in contrast with the later developing "what" functions. We hypothesized that young adults with DS would exhibit stronger "where" than "what" auditory functioning, albeit with the potential impact of HL. Considering the importance of auditory working memory and receptive vocabulary for speech recognition, we hypothesized that better speech recognition in young adults with DS, in quiet and with speech interferers, would be associated with better auditory working memory ability and receptive vocabulary. Nineteen young adults with DS (aged 19 to 24 years) participated in the study and completed assessments on pure-tone audiometry, right versus left discrimination, sound location identification, and speech recognition in quiet and with speech interferers that were colocated or spatially separated. Results were compared with published data from children and adults without DS and HL, tested using similar protocols and stimuli. Digit Span tests assessed auditory working memory. Receptive vocabulary was examined using the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test Fifth Edition. Seven participants (37%) had HL in at least 1 ear; 4 individuals had mild HL, and 3 had moderate HL or worse. Participants with mild or no HL had ≥75% correct at 5° separation on the discrimination task and sound localization root mean square errors (mean ± SD: 8.73° ± 2.63°) within the range of adults in the comparison group. Speech reception thresholds in young adults with DS were higher than all comparison groups. However, spatial release from masking did not differ between young adults with DS and comparison groups. Better (lower) speech reception thresholds were associated with better hearing and better auditory working memory ability. Receptive vocabulary did not predict speech recognition. In the absence of HL, young adults with DS exhibited higher accuracy during spatial hearing tasks as compared with speech recognition tasks. Thus, auditory processes associated with the "where" pathways appear to be a relative strength than those associated with "what" pathways in young adults with DS. Further, both HL and auditory working memory impairments contributed to difficulties in speech recognition in the presence of speech interferers. Future larger-sized samples are needed to replicate and extend our findings.

Follow-up after urinary diversion

Radical cystectomy is currently the standard of care for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Different parts of the small and large intestines can be utilized for continent and incontinent urinary diversion. The postoperative follow-up after urinary diversion should consider functional, metabolic and oncological aspects. The functional follow-up of (continent) urinary diversion includes stenosis, emptying disorders or incontinence. The oncological follow-up should focus on the detection of local, urethral and upper tract recurrences as well as distant metastases. As 90% of the tumor recurrences occur during the first 3years, aclose follow-up should be carried out during this period. Metabolic disturbances, such as vitamin B12 and bile acid deficits, acidosis and disorders of calcium metabolism can also occur during long-term follow-up. The metabolic follow-up should consider the metabolic consequences of the parts of the intestines utilized for the urinary diversion.

Cognitive predictors of response to interpersonal and social rhythm therapy in mood disorders.

There has been increasing interest in examining the potential moderating effects that cognitive functioning has on treatment outcome in bipolar disorder (BD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Therefore, the aim of this exploratory study was to examine the relationship between baseline cognitive function and treatment outcome in individuals with mood disorders who completed 12 months of interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), and were randomised to receive adjunctive cognitive remediation (CR) or no additional intervention. Fifty-eight patients with mood disorders (BD, n = 36, MDD, n = 22), who were randomised to IPSRT-CR or IPSRT, underwent cognitive testing at baseline and completed follow-up mood measures after 12 months. General linear modelling was used to examine the relationship between baseline cognitive function (both objective and subjective) and change in mood symptom burden, and functioning, from baseline to treatment-end. Poorer baseline attention/executive function was associated with less change in mood symptom burden, particularly depressive symptoms, at treatment-end. Additionally, slower psychomotor speed at baseline was associated with less improvement in mania symptom burden. Subjective cognitive function at baseline was not related to change in mood symptom burden at treatment-end, and neither objective nor subjective cognitive function was associated with functional outcome. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, there was no correction for multiple comparisons. Aspects of objective cognitive function were associated with treatment outcomes following psychotherapy. Further large-scale research is required to examine the role that cognitive function may have in determining various aspects of mood disorder recovery.

Surgical and orthodontic management of impacted maxillary central incisor in children: A case report

Impaction of maxillary permanent central incisor is a frequently reported case in dental practice, and its treatment is challenging because maxillary central incisors are of great important for both aesthetic and functional aspects, since they provide support of the lip and facial muscles. Early detection of such teeth is most important if complications are to be avoided. In this article, we report a case of a 12-year-old girl, in the Pediatric Dentistry Specialist, Dental and Oral Hospital, Airlangga University. Combined approach with surgical exposure and the application of an orthodontic force brought the impacted left maxillary central incisor down to its proper position in the dental arch.

Flexible modular dwelling for rural environments; specific case: Cebadas – Ecuador

Background Sustainable modular dwelling design for rural areas should focus on creating healthy and economically accessible spaces, sensitive to local needs and integrating environmental, functional, sociological and technological aspects. Flexibility is essential to reduce the initial investment and allow future transformations, optimizing the recovery and reuse of materials. These houses must be adaptable, safe and have basic services, satisfying the needs and stages of families’ development. In Ecuador, poverty and energy inefficiency worsen the quality of life in rural areas. This project in the Cebadas parish proposes modular dwelling that applies bioclimatic and sustainable criteria, using local materials to improve habitability and promote the social and economic development of the community. Method The research approach is qualitative-quantitative. Qualitative, since it is necessary to identify the qualities of the sector, bibliographic exploration of guidelines and sustainable strategies. Quantitative, to evaluate the degree of affectation through a diagnosis of the study site and to provide efficient solutions that respond to the context and social reality. Results The spaces presented in the proposal respond to the spatial need for growth and expansion of the users of the sector, through 6 basic guidelines that this type of dwelling should have: Environment, Visual, Form, Function, Bioclimatic and Materials. Conclusions The flexible modular dwelling project for rural environments addresses complex housing needs, highlighting the flexibility and adaptability of an expandable module. It includes income generation with a duplex apartment, fosters communal and cultural life with public and commercial spaces, promotes tourism and rural development with landscape design and crops. In addition, it ensures sustainability through bioclimatic strategies and responsible use of resources.

Analysis of keratopigmentation in the treatment of iridodialysis

Keratopigmentation has emerged as an innovative approach in the treatment of iridodialysis, an ocular condition that can result in serious visual and aesthetic complications. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of keratopigmentation in the treatment of iridodialysis, considering both functional and aesthetic aspects. A comprehensive qualitative literature review was conducted, utilizing databases such as Scielo, Google Scholar, scientific journals, repositories, and virtual libraries. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies directly addressing keratopigmentation in the context of iridodialysis, while case studies and publications in languages not understood were excluded. The analysis revealed that keratopigmentation can significantly improve the visual functionality of patients, reducing symptoms such as photophobia and diplopia, while also providing satisfactory aesthetic results. The risks and complications associated with the procedure were minimal, especially with the use of micronized mineral pigments and advanced techniques like femtosecond laser. It was concluded that keratopigmentation is a viable and less invasive alternative compared to traditional techniques, offering significant therapeutic potential in the treatment of iridodialysis. This study contributes to the validation of the technique and suggests future research directions to optimize results and expand the clinical applications of this innovative approach.

Treacher Collins syndrome: current and emerging treatment options

Treacher Collins syndrome is a rare congenital disorder characterized by bilateral craniofacial malformations, including mandibular and zygomatic hypoplasia, cleft palate, and eye anomalies, resulting in significant variability in symptom severity. The syndrome, with an incidence of approximately 1 in 50,000 births, is primarily caused by mutations in the TCOF1 gene and less frequently by mutations in POLR1C and POLR1D genes, disrupting ribosome biogenesis crucial for craniofacial development. Clinical manifestations encompass diverse craniofacial, auditory, and skeletal abnormalities, often leading to airway complications and hearing loss. Management involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining surgical interventions such as mandibular distraction osteogenesis and orthognathic surgeries with advanced imaging techniques for precise planning. Hearing loss is managed with bone conduction aids and cochlear implants, although outcomes may vary due to associated anomalies. Genetic testing aids in diagnosis and family planning decisions, while emerging therapies like genome editing and regenerative medicine show promise for future treatments. Despite challenges in long-term management and relapse rates in surgical corrections, ongoing research aims to enhance therapeutic efficacy and patient outcomes, emphasizing the need for tailored treatment strategies addressing both functional and aesthetic aspects.

Health and disability – a multi-group latent class analysis of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 among those with mental and physical health conditions

BackgroundThis study aims to identify disability classes among people with schizophrenia spectrum disorder, depression, anxiety or diabetes via the WHODAS 2.0; investigate the invariance of disability patterns among the four diagnostic groups; and examine associations between disability classes and sociodemographic variables.MethodsPatients seeking treatment for schizophrenia spectrum disorder, depression, anxiety or diabetes (n=1076) were recruited. Latent class analysis was used to identify disability classes based on WHODAS 2.0 responses. Measurement invariance was tested using multi-group latent class analysis. Associations between classes and sociodemographic variables were tested via multinomial logistic regression.ResultsA five-class solution was identified; examination of model invariance showed that the partially constrained five-class model was most appropriate, suggesting that class structure was consistent while class membership differed across diagnostic groups. Finally, significant associations were found between class membership and ethnicity, education level, and employment status.ConclusionsThe results show the feasibility of using the WHODAS 2.0 to identify and compare different disability classes among people with mental or physical conditions and their sociodemographic correlates. Establishing a typology of different disability profiles will help guide research and treatment plans that tackle not just clinical but also functional aspects of living with either a chronic psychiatric or physical condition.

The yin and yang of pioneer transcription factors: Dual roles in repression and activation.

Pioneer transcription factors, by virtue of their ability to target nucleosomal DNA in silent chromatin, play crucial roles in eliciting cell fate decisions during development and cellular reprogramming. In addition to their well-established role in chromatin opening to activate gene expression programs, recent studies have demonstrated that pioneer factors have the complementary function of being able to silence the starting cell identity through targeted chromatin repression. Given recent discoveries regarding the repressive aspect of pioneer function, we discuss the basis by which pioneer factors can suppress alternative lineage programs in the context of cell fate control.

Effects of a cognitive rehabilitation training program in school-aged children with specific learning disorder

ABSTRACT Objective This study investigated the effect of Cognitive Rehabilitation Training (CRT) on executive functions, problem solving, and attention in students with a specific learning disorder (SLD). Method Forty-two SLD students from the third to sixth grade (8–12 years old) were randomly assigned to 16 sessions of CRT (n = 21) or to a control (n = 21) group. Executive functions were assessed by the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (2nd ed.), problem solving by the Tower of London test, and attention by the Stroop test. Results Analyses of variance and post-hoc analyses revealed that there were significant improvements in the CRT group in most aspects of executive functions, problem solving, and attention, and these improvements were maintained over a two-month follow-up. Conclusion These findings suggest that a CRT program may have positive implications for cognitive functioning and may provide preliminary support for alternative therapeutic interventions for use in children with SLD.

Resolving the Current Controversy of Use and Reuse of Housekeeping Proteins in Ageing Research: Focus on Saving People’s Tax Dollars

The use of housekeeping genes and proteins to normalize mRNA and protein levels in biomedical research has faced growing scrutiny. Researchers encounter challenges in determining the optimal frequency for running housekeeping proteins such as β-actin, Tubulin, and GAPDH for nuclear-encoded proteins, and Porin, HSP60, and TOM20 for mitochondrial proteins alongside experimental proteins. The regulation of these proteins varies with age, gender, disease progression, epitope nature, gel running conditions, and their reported sizes can differ among antibody suppliers. Additionally, anonymous readers have raised concerns about peer-reviewed and published articles, creating confusion and concern within the research and academic institutions. To clarify these matters, this minireview discusses the role of reference housekeeping proteins in Western blot analysis and outlines key considerations for their use as normalization controls. Instead of Western blotting of housekeeping proteins, staining of total proteins, using Amido Black and Coomassie Blue can be visualized the total protein content on a membrane. The reducing repeated Western blotting analysis of housekeeping proteins, will save resources, time and efforts and in turn increase the number of competitive grants from NIH and funding agencies. We also discussed the use of dot blots over traditional Western blots, when protein levels are low in rare tissues/specimens and cell lines. We sincerely hope that the facts, figures, and discussions presented in this article will clarify the current controversy regarding housekeeping protein(s) use, reuse, and functional aspects of housekeeping proteins. The contents presented in our article will be useful to students, scholars and researchers of all levels in cell biology, protein chemistry and mitochondrial research.

Relationship between domain-specific physical activity and cognitive function in older adults – findings from NHANES 2011–2014

ObjectiveTo determine the relationship between domain-specific physical activity (PA) (e.g., occupational PA [OPA], transport-related PA [TPA], and recreational PA [RPA]) and cognitive function in older adults.MethodsThe data was obtained from the 2011–2014 cycle of the NHANES. We utilized weighted multivariate linear regression models among the included 2,924 people aged 60 years or older for our purposes.ResultsRPA and total PA according to WHO guidelines were associated with verbal fluency (RPA β: 1.400, 95% CI: 0.776, 2.024, p = 0.002; total PA β: 1.115, 95% CI: 0.571, 1.659, p = 0.001), processing speed and executive function (RPA β: 2.912, 95% CI. 1.291, 4.534, p = 0.005; total PA β: 2.974, 95% CI: 1.683, 4.265, p < 0.001) were positively correlated, and total PA was correlated with delayed memory performance (β: 0.254, 95% CI: 0.058, 0.449, p = 0.019). No significant association was observed between OPA, TPA, and various aspects of cognitive function among individuals over 60 years.ConclusionThere was no noteworthy correlation discovered between OPA and TPA in relation to cognitive function. However, RPA and total PA exhibited significant associations with verbal fluency, processing speed, and executive function. Additionally, maintaining PA levels ranging from 600 to 1,200 MET-min/week would yield the most favorable outcomes for cognitive function.

Online Group Cognitive Rehabilitation Program for Prostate Cancer Survivors: Development Using Codesign and the Theoretical Domains Framework

ObjectivesThis study aimed to describe the adaptation of a group cognitive rehabilitation program for prostate cancer survivors (PCS) via telehealth delivery using a codesign approach with PCS experiencing cancer-related cognitive impairment. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) also informed the intervention development. MethodsIntervention development consisted of three steps: 1) Adapting an existing cancer-related cognitive rehabilitation program for PCS; 2) Conducting a codesign focus group workshop to gather feedback that was analyzed using a template approach; and 3) Incorporation of consumer feedback to refine the program for future piloting in PCS. Components of the finalized intervention were mapped onto the TDF domains. ResultsSix PCS were involved in the codesign focus group workshop, providing feedback on program structure, the topics and its order, and rehabilitation activities. A manualized four-week online group cognitive rehabilitation program titled “Promoting Cognitive Wellbeing in Prostate Cancer Survivors (ProCog)” was developed. Four sessions of 2-hours’ duration were designed exploring: cognitive/brain functions; the impact of cancer treatments and ageing; the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviors; values-based goal-setting; and skills/strategies to manage fatigue and improve attention, memory, aspects of executive functioning, and emotional functioning. ConclusionsConsumer input and guidance from the TDF ensures a robust development process for the online ProCog intervention, designed for and with PCS experiencing cognitive difficulties. As an important initial step before piloting, this adaptation and development process ensures that ProCog addresses consumer needs and preferences and targets factors increasing behavior change. Implications for Nursing PracticeThis research raises awareness of possible cancer-related cognitive impairments in prostate cancer survivors and strategies for rehabilitation. ProCog is an accessible online intervention that nurses can use to refer patients needing cognitive rehabilitation.

Combined non-targeted and targeted metabolomics reveals the mechanism of delaying aging of Ginseng fibrous root

Background: The fibrous root of ginseng (GFR) is the dried thin branch root or whisker root of Ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Mey). It is known for its properties such as tonifying qi, producing body fluid, and quenching thirst. Clinically, it is used to treat conditions such as cough, hemoptysis, thirst, stomach deficiency, and vomiting. While GFR and Ginseng share similar metabolites, they differ in their metabolites ratios and efficacy. Furthermore, the specific role of GFR in protecting the body remains unclear.Methods: We employed ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry to examine alterations in brain neurotransmitters and elucidate the impact of GFR on the central nervous system. Additionally, we analyzed the serum and brain metabolic profiles of rats using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry to discern the effect and underlying mechanism of GFR in delaying aging in naturally aged rats.Results: The findings of the serum biochemical indicators indicate that the intervention of GFR can enhance cardiovascular, oxidative stress, and energy metabolism related indicators in naturally aging rats. Research on brain neurotransmitters suggests that GFR can augment physiological functions such as learning and memory, while also inhibiting central nervous system excitation to a certain degree by maintaining the equilibrium of central neurotransmitters in aged individuals. Twenty-four abnormal metabolites in serum and seventeen abnormal metabolites in brain could be used as potential biomarkers and were involved in multiple metabolic pathways. Among them, in the brain metabolic pathways, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, histidine metabolism, and tyrosine metabolism were closely related to central neurotransmitters. Butanoate metabolism improves energy supply for life activities in the aging body. Cysteine and methionine metabolism contributes to the production of glutathione and taurine and played an antioxidant role. In serum, the regulation of glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway and proline metabolism demonstrated the antioxidant capacity of GFR decoction.Conclution: In summary, GFR plays a role in delaying aging by regulating central neurotransmitters, cardiovascular function, oxidative stress, energy metabolism, and other aspects of the aging body, which lays a foundation for the application of GFR.

Exploring emotion dysregulation in adolescence and its association with social immaturity, self-representation, and thought process problems

Background and aimsThis study aimed to explore the complex phenomenon of emotional dysregulation, particularly in adolescence, which is associated with many mental health disorders and problems. Increasing the knowledge of clinicians and researchers in this area can be helpful in guiding future treatment plans. The aim of the study was to investigate, from an exploratory perspective, which structural aspects of adolescent functioning (assessed using the Rorschach test and administered and scored according to the Comprehensive System, CS, by Exner) were associated with different dimensions of emotional dysregulation (evaluated using the Difficulties in Emotion Dysregulation Scale, DERS).MethodSecondary data were used for the study, which included 100 adolescents, with 50 in the clinical group (patients with complex trauma histories residing in therapeutic and socio-rehabilitative communities) and 50 in the nonclinical group (recruited from a scout group and middle and high schools). The two groups were compared on terms of the mean scores obtained in the DERS scales (one-tailed t-test) and the proportions of cases that obtained pathological values for selected Rorschach CS indicators (z-test). Partial correlations were calculated between the DERS scales and the Rorschach CS variables to explore which structural dimensions of functioning were associated with different characteristics of emotional dysregulation.ResultsThe results indicated that the two groups differed in their outcomes on all DERS scales, except for Awareness and Goals, and on four Rorschach CS variables (EgoIndex, a:p, Wsum6, and MOR). Some significant positive and negative correlations between the Rorschach CS variables and the DERS scales also emerged.ConclusionThese results suggest that the dimensions of functioning associated with emotional dysregulation are related to self-representation, relational immaturity, and thought processes character and characterize membership in a therapeutic community. The correlations described in the article warrants further consideration. Finally, the study’s limitations and future research prospects are presented.

Service Robots Acceptance among Customers of Insurance Companies: An Application of Service Robot Acceptance Model

Drawing from the Service Robot Acceptance Model (sRAM), this paper investigates the acceptance of service robots among customers of Nepalese insurance companies. Using a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 243 customers of insurance companies through purposive sampling. Hypotheses were tested using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). This paper found that Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU), Perceived Usefulness (PU), Subjective Social Norms (SSN), and Perceived Social Interactivity (PSI) significantly influence Customer Acceptance of Service Robots (CASR). Additionally, PEOU significantly influences PU, and SSN significantly influences PU. However, Perceived Humanness (PH), Perceived Social Presence (PSN), Rapport (RAP), and Trust (TR) do not significantly influence CASR. This paper provides a significant evidencebased framework for developers and managers to prioritise the functional aspects, social presence, and social interactivity of service robots in the Nepalese insurance companies. This paper is one of the pioneering studies to explain service robot acceptance among customers of insurance companies by applying the sRAM in the Nepalese context.

Differential effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and linoleic acid (LA) on miR-101 and miR-342 tumor suppressor microRNAs in Taxol-treated HER2-positive breast cancer cells

Background & AimsDocosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and linoleic acid (LA) have been shown to exhibit anti-proliferative effects against breast cancer cells. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects are not yet fully understood. One potential mechanism is through the regulation of microRNAs (miRs), which are known to play a crucial role in breast cancer development and progression. This study aimed to investigate the expression of miR-342 and miR-101 as tumor-suppressor miRs in the human HER-2 positive breast cancer cell line BT-474 after treatment with DHA, LA, alone or in combination with Taxol, a standard chemotherapy agent. MethodsThe human breast cancer cell line BT-474 was cultured, and the IC50 for Taxol was determined using the MTT assay. Cells were then cultured and treated for 24 hours with 100 μM DHA and 50 μM LA, alone or in combination with the respective IC50 of Taxol. Cells were harvested, and miRNA extraction and cDNA synthesis were performed using standard methods. Expression levels of miRs were analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and results were normalized against U6 snRNA expression levels. ResultsThe Taxol IC50 for BT-474 cells was 19 nM. According to the data obtained from our study, it was observed that Taxol treatment resulted in the down-regulation of both miR-101 and miR-342 (3.69 (p < 0.0001) and 1.88 fold, (p < 0.0001) respectively). In addition, DHA, LA and DHA+LA caused up-regulation of miR-101 (0.11, 0.05, 0.03 fold (p < 0.0001) respectively) but not miR-342 (decreased by 1.93 (p < 0.0001), 2.89 (p < 0.0001) and 1.19 fold (p = 0.0029) respectively). Notably, treatment with DHA, LA and DHA+LA was able to restore the down-regulated expression of miR-101 (0.25 (p < 0.0001), 0.05 (p = 0.0012) and 0.06 fold (p < 0.0001) respectively) during Taxol treatment. ConclusionOur study demonstrates that DHA and LA can effectively compensate for the reduced expression of miR-101 during Taxol treatment. These findings suggest that dietary fatty acids may play a critical role in modulating the anti-cancer effects of chemotherapy agents. Future studies are needed to investigate the functional aspects of dietary fatty acids on breast cancer development and progression.

Polish Translation and Validation of the SCHNOS (Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey) Questionnaire.

&lt;b&gt;Introduction:&lt;/b&gt; Rhinoseptoplasty procedures are focused not only on the aesthetic but also on the functional aspects. Surgical outcomes have to be evaluated in each patient. To date, the Polish literature has lacked a tool facilitating simultaneous assessment of rhinoseptoplasty's impact on both the external appearance and functionality of the nose.&lt;b&gt;Aim:&lt;/b&gt; The aim of this study was to translate, adapt, and validate the Polish version of the original SCHNOS (Standardized Cosmesis and Health Nasal Outcomes Survey) questionnaire as used for the assessment of the functional and aesthetic outcomes in patients after rhinoplasty.&lt;b&gt;Materials and methods:&lt;/b&gt; A total of 31 subjects (N = 24 [77.4%] women and N = 7 men [22.6%]) aged 19 through 55 years (M = 31.32; SD = 8.50) participated in the study. The SCHNOS questionnaire was translated in accordance with international guidelines. The psychometric accuracy of translation was tested in native speakers of Polish. The authors measured the internal consistency, correlatability, and repeatability of the instrument to determine its validity. The data were subjected to statistical analysis.&lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; The confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the two-factor structure of the scale. The satisfactory reliability amounted to 0.888 [95% CI: 0.804-0.940] for the SCHNOS-O and 0.883 [95% CI 0.795-0.937] for the SCHNOS-C scale. Differential accuracy was confirmed by AVE values of &gt; 0.5 as well as by correlation of the results with the Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation (ROE) questionnaire scores.&lt;b&gt;Conclusions:&lt;/b&gt; The SCHNOS questionnaire has been translated, adapted, and validated for use in the Polish-speaking population. The tool was found to be relevant and reliable.

Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of U-Box Gene Family Members and Analysis of Their Expression Patterns in Phaseolus vulgaris L. under Cold Stress.

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an economically important food crop grown worldwide; however, its production is affected by various environmental stresses, including cold, heat, and drought stress. The plant U-box (PUB) protein family participates in various biological processes and stress responses, but the gene function and expression patterns of its members in the common bean remain unclear. Here, we systematically identified 63 U-box genes, including 8 tandem genes and 55 non-tandem genes, in the common bean. These PvPUB genes were unevenly distributed across 11 chromosomes, with chromosome 2 holding the most members of the PUB family, containing 10 PUB genes. The analysis of the phylogenetic tree classified the 63 PUB genes into three groups. Moreover, transcriptome analysis based on cold-tolerant and cold-sensitive varieties identified 4 differentially expressed PvPUB genes, suggesting their roles in cold tolerance. Taken together, this study serves as a valuable resource for exploring the functional aspects of the common bean U-box gene family and offers crucial theoretical support for the development of new cold-tolerant common bean varieties.

Effects of riparian vegetation restoration and environmental context on ecosystem functioning in tropical streams of southeastern Brazil

Tropical stream ecosystems are under increasing human pressure, making the development of effective restoration approaches and expanding knowledge in this field urgent. This study evaluated the impact of riparian vegetation restoration and environmental context on stream ecosystem functioning by measuring key ecosystem functions - gross primary production (GPP), ecosystem respiration (ER), and nutrient uptake of ammonium and soluble reactive phosphorus - across ten tropical streams in southeastern Brazil. The streams represented a gradient from clearcut areas (impacted reaches) to relatively pristine conditions (reference reaches), including intermediate stages of vegetation recovery (restored reaches). In the short-term (~15–20 years after restoration), restoration led to reduced GPP akin to reference reaches. Yet, ER did not show the anticipated increase, suggesting a longer timeframe is necessary for restored streams to emulate the functional characteristics of reference reaches. Additionally, the restored reaches did not achieve the nutrient uptake efficiencies observed in both impacted and reference reaches, pointing to a partial recovery of ecosystem function. This study suggests that while riparian vegetation restoration contributes positively to certain aspects of stream function, environmental variables less related to this type of restoration, such as discharge and hydromorphology, significantly influence stream ecosystem functioning, highlighting the importance of considering environmental context in restoration efforts. A more holistic approach, possibly encompassing broader hydromorphological and habitat enhancements, is needed to fully restore ecological processes in these vital ecosystems. These insights are critical for informing future tropical stream restoration projects, advocating the use of ecosystem function metrics as comprehensive indicators of ecological recovery and restoration success.