bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual Detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA by Conventional PCR-Induced Generation of DNAzyme Sensor
Authors: Anantharaj Anbalagan , Das Soon Jyoti , Sharanabasava Patil , Lodha Rakesh , Kabra Sushil K. , Sharma Tarun Kumar , Medigeshi Guruprasad R.
Published: December 2020

The gold standard for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, is real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which is labor-intensive, expensive, and not widely available in resource-poor settings. Therefore, it is imperative to develop novel, accurate, affordable, and easily accessible assays/sensors to diagnose and isolate COVID-19 cases. To address this unmet need, we utilized the catalytic potential of peroxidase-like DNAzyme and developed a simple visual detection assay for SARS-CoV-2 RNA using a conventional thermal cycler by the PCR-induced generation of DNAzyme sensor. The performance of RT-PCR DNAzyme-based sensor was comparable to that of real-time PCR. The pilot scale validation of RT-PCR DNAzyme-based sensor has shown ~100% sensitivity and specificity in clinical specimens (nasopharyngeal swab, n = 34), with a good correlation (Spearman r = 0.799) with the Ct-value of fluorescence probe-based real-time PCR. These findings clearly indicate the potential of this inexpensive, sensitive, and specific molecular diagnostic test to extend our testing capabilities for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 to curtail COVID-19 transmission.
Role of Astrocytic Inwardly Rectifying Potassium (Kir) 4.1 Channels in Epileptogenesis
Authors: Kinboshi Masato , Ikeda Akio , Ohno Yukihiro
Published: December 2020

Astrocytes regulate potassium and glutamate homeostasis via inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) 4.1 channels in synapses, maintaining normal neural excitability. Numerous studies have shown that dysfunction of astrocytic Kir4.1 channels is involved in epileptogenesis in humans and animal models of epilepsy. Specifically, Kir4.1 channel inhibition by KCNJ10 gene mutation or expressional down-regulation increases the extracellular levels of potassium ions and glutamate in synapses and causes hyperexcitation of neurons. Moreover, recent investigations demonstrated that inhibition of Kir4.1 channels facilitates the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), an important modulator of epileptogenesis, in astrocytes. In this review, we summarize the current understanding on the role of astrocytic Kir4.1 channels in epileptogenesis, with a focus on functional and expressional changes in Kir4.1 channels and their regulation of BDNF secretion. We also discuss the potential of Kir4.1 channels as a therapeutic target for the prevention of epilepsy.
Network Diffusion Modeling Explains Longitudinal Tau PET Data
Authors: Schäfer Amelie , Mormino Elizabeth C. , Kuhl Ellen
Published: December 2020

Alzheimer's disease is associated with the cerebral accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles of hyperphosphorylated tau protein. The progressive occurrence of tau aggregates in different brain regions is closely related to neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment. However, our current understanding of tau propagation relies almost exclusively on postmortem histopathology, and the precise propagation dynamics of misfolded tau in the living brain remain poorly understood. Here we combine longitudinal positron emission tomography and dynamic network modeling to test the hypothesis that misfolded tau propagates preferably along neuronal connections. We follow 46 subjects for three or four annual positron emission tomography scans and compare their pathological tau profiles against brain network models of intracellular and extracellular spreading. For each subject, we identify a personalized set of model parameters that characterizes the individual progression of pathological tau. Across all subjects, the mean protein production rate was 0.21 ± 0.15 and the intracellular diffusion coefficient was 0.34 ± 0.43. Our network diffusion model can serve as a tool to detect non-clinical symptoms at an earlier stage and make informed predictions about the timeline of neurodegeneration on an individual personalized basis.
Allodynia by Splenocytes From Mice With Acid-Induced Fibromyalgia-Like Generalized Pain and Its Sexual Dimorphic Regulation by Brain Microglia
Authors: Ueda Hiroshi , Dozono Naoki , Tanaka Keigo , Kaneko Shuji , Neyama Hiroyuki , Uchida Hitoshi
Published: December 2020

Fibromyalgia (FM), a disease of unknown etiology characterized by chronic generalized pain, is partly recapitulated in an animal model induced by repeated acid saline injections into the gastrocnemius muscle. Here, we attempted to investigate the sex difference in pain hypersensitivity (mechanical allodynia and hypersensitivity to electrical stimulation) in the repeated acid saline-induced FM-like generalized pain (AcGP) model. The first unilateral acid injection into gastrocnemius muscle at day 0/D0 and second injection at D5 (post day 0, P0) induced transient and long-lasting mechanical allodynia, respectively, on both sides of male and female mice. The pretreatment with gonadectomy did not affect the first injection-induced allodynia in both sexes, but gradually reversed the second injection-induced allodynia in male but not female mice. Moreover, the AcGP in male mice was abolished by intracerebroventricular minocycline treatments during D4–P4 or P5–P11, but not by early treatments during D0–D5 in male but not female mice, suggesting that brain microglia are required for AcGP in late-onset and sex-dependent manners. We also found that the intravenous treatments of splenocytes derived from male but not female mice treated with AcGP caused allodynia in naive mice. In addition, the purified CD4+ T cells derived from splenocytes of acid-treated male mice retained the ability to cause allodynia in naive mice. These findings suggest that FM-like AcGP has multiple sexual dimorphic mechanisms.
Target Molecules of STIM Proteins in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Serwach Karolina , Gruszczynska-Biegala Joanna
Published: December 2020

Stromal interaction molecules (STIMs), including STIM1 and STIM2, are single-pass transmembrane proteins that are located predominantly in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). They serve as calcium ion (Ca2+) sensors within the ER. In the central nervous system (CNS), they are involved mainly in Orai-mediated store-operated Ca2+entry (SOCE). The key molecular components of the SOCE pathway are well-characterized, but the molecular mechanisms that underlie the regulation of this pathway need further investigation. Numerous intracellular target proteins that are located in the plasma membrane, ER, cytoskeleton, and cytoplasm have been reported to play essential roles in concert with STIMs, such as conformational changes in STIMs, their translocation, the stabilization of their interactions with Orai, and the activation of other channels. The present review focuses on numerous regulators, such as Homer, SOCE-associated regulatory factor (SARAF), septin, synaptopodin, golli proteins, partner of STIM1 (POST), and transcription factors and proteasome inhibitors that regulate STIM-Orai interactions in the CNS. Further we describe novel roles of STIMs in mediating Ca2+influx via other than Orai pathways, including TRPC channels, VGCCs, AMPA and NMDA receptors, and group I metabotropic glutamate receptors. This review also summarizes recent findings on additional molecular targets of STIM proteins including SERCA, IP3Rs, end-binding proteins (EB), presenilin, and CaMKII. Dysregulation of the SOCE-associated toolkit, including STIMs, contributes to the development of neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease), traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, and stroke. Emerging evidence points to the role of STIM proteins and several of their molecular effectors and regulators in neuronal and glial physiology and pathology, suggesting their potential application for future therapeutic strategies.
Efficacy of Postoperative FOLFOX Versus XELOX Chemotherapy for Gastric Cancer and Prognostic Value of Platelet–Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients Receiving XELOX
Authors: Yin Xin , Fang Tianyi , Wang Yimin , Li Chunfeng , Wang Yufei , Zhang Daoxu , Xue Yingwei
Published: December 2020

Background

Surgery combined with postoperative chemotherapy is an effective method for treating patients with gastric cancer (GC) in Asia. The important roles of systemic inflammatory response in chemotherapy have been gradually verified. The purpose of this study was to assess the difference in clinical effectiveness of FOLFOX (oxaliplatin + leucovorin + 5-fluorouracil) and XELOX (oxaliplatin + capecitabine), and the prognostic value of postoperative platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in the XELOX group.

Methods

Patients who received radical gastrectomy combined with postoperative chemotherapy between 2004 and 2014 were consecutively selected into the FOLFOX and XELOX groups. Group bias was reduced through propensity score matching, which resulted in 278 patients in each group. Cut-off values of systemic immune inflammation (SII) score and PLR were obtained by receiver operating characteristic curve. Kaplan–Meier and Log-rank tests were used to analyze overall survival. The chi-square test was used to analyze the association between clinical characteristics and inflammatory indexes. Univariate and multivariate analyses based on Cox regression analysis showed independent risk factors for prognosis. The nomogram was made by R studio.

Results

Patients receiving XELOX postoperative chemotherapy had better survival than those receiving FOLFOX (P < 0.001), especially for stage III GC (P = 0.002). Preoperative SII was an independent risk factor for prognosis in the FOLFOX group, and PLR of the second postoperative chemotherapy regimen in the XELOX group, combined with tumor size and pTNM stage, could construct a nomogram for evaluating recurrence and prognosis.

Conclusion

XELOX is better than FOLFOX for treatment of GC in Chinese patients, and a nomogram constructed by PLR, tumor size and pTNM stage can predict recurrence and prognosis.
Dyspnea in Patients Receiving Radical Radiotherapy for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Prospective Study
Authors: Sardaro Angela , McDonald Fiona , Bardoscia Lilia , Lavrenkov Konstantin , Singh Shalini , Ashley Sue , Traish Daphne , Ferrari Cristina , Meattini Icro , Asabella Artor Niccoli , Brada Michael
Published: December 2020

Background and Purpose

Dyspnea is an important symptomatic endpoint for assessment of radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) following radical radiotherapy in locally advanced disease, which remains the mainstay of treatment at the time of significant advances in therapy including combination treatments with immunotherapy and chemotherapy and the use of local ablative radiotherapy techniques. We investigated the relationship between dose-volume parameters and subjective changes in dyspnea as a measure of RILI and the relationship to spirometry.

Material and Methods

Eighty patients receiving radical radiotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer were prospectively assessed for dyspnea using two patient-completed tools: EORTC QLQ-LC13 dyspnea quality of life assessment and dyspnea visual analogue scale (VAS). Global quality of life, spirometry and radiation pneumonitis grade were also assessed. Comparisons were made with lung dose-volume parameters.

Results

The median survival of the cohort was 26 months. In the evaluable group of 59 patients there were positive correlations between lung dose-volume parameters and a change in dyspnea quality of life scale at 3 months (V30 p=0.017; V40 p=0.026; V50 p=0.049; mean lung dose p=0.05), and a change in dyspnea VAS at 6 months (V30 p=0.05; V40 p=0.026; V50 p=0.028) after radiotherapy. Lung dose-volume parameters predicted a 10% increase in dyspnea quality of life score at 3 months (V40; p=0.041, V50; p=0.037) and dyspnea VAS score at 6 months (V40; p=0.027) post-treatment.

Conclusions

Worsening of dyspnea is an important symptom of RILI. We demonstrate a relationship between lung dose-volume parameters and a 10% worsening of subjective dyspnea scores. Our findings support the use of subjective dyspnea tools in future studies on radiation-induced lung toxicity, particularly at doses below conventional lung radiation tolerance limits.
Real-World Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Gemcitabine and Cisplatin Compared to Docetaxel and Cisplatin Plus Fluorouracil Induction Chemotherapy in Locoregionally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Jiangping , Han Jiaqi , He Jinlan , Duan Baofeng , Gou Qiheng , Ai Ping , Liu Lei , Li Yanchu , Ren Kexing , Wang Feng , Yao Min , Chen Nianyong
Published: December 2020

Background

Addition of gemcitabine and cisplatin (GP) or docetaxel and cisplatin plus fluorouracil (TPF) to concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) signiﬁcantly improved survival in locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). However, an economic evaluation of these regimens remains unknown. The purpose of this study is to compare the cost-effectiveness of GP versus TPF regimen in the treatment of locoregionally advanced NPC in China.

Materials and methods

A comprehensive Markov model was developed to evaluate the health and economic outcomes of GP versus TPF regimen for patients with locoregionally advanced NPC. Baseline and clinical outcome were derived from 158 patients with newly diagnosed stage III-IVA NPC between 2010 and 2015. We evaluated the quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system. One-way sensitive analysis explored the impact of uncertainty in key model parameters on results, and probabilistic uncertainty was assessed through a Monte Carlo probabilistic sensitivity analysis.

Results

GP regimen provided an additional 0.42 QALYs with incremental cost of $3,821.99, resulting in an ICER of $9,099.98 per QALY versus TPF regimen at the real-world setting. One-way sensitivity analysis found that the results were most sensitive to the cost and proportion of receiving subsequent treatment in two groups. The probability that GP regimen being cost-effective compared with TPF regimen was 86.9% at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) of $31,008.16 per QALY.

Conclusion

Using real-world data, GP regimen was demonstrated a cost-effective alternative to TFP regimen for patients with locoregionally advanced NPC in China. It provides valuable evidence for clinicians when making treatment decisions to improve the cost-effectiveness of treatment.
Stimulator of Interferon Genes-Associated Vasculopathy With Onset in Infancy: A Systematic Review of Case Reports
Authors: Dai YunFan , Liu XiuYun , Zhao ZhiPeng , He JianXin , Yin QingQin
Published: December 2020

Objective: To summarize and analyze the manifestations of stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI).

Methods: A systematic literature review was performed including cases from January 1, 2014, to February 1, 2020, using PubMed, OVID, CNKI, and WanFang. This included all the literature containing comparatively complete clinical data. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0 to analyze the difference in age of onset, severity of skin lesions, and respiratory symptoms between SAVI patients with p.N154S and p.V155M mutations.

Results: A total of 25 papers were included reporting on 51 individuals, of whom 17 had familiar inheritance of their mutation. Patients included 27 males and 24 females, and 8 fatal cases were observed. A total of 10 mutation sites have been reported in the STING gene, with p.V155M being the most prevalent. We identified SAVI as an early-onset disease with a median age of onset of 3 months after birth. Skin lesions were the most common symptoms of SAVI, found in 94.1% (48/51) of patients, while 76% (19/25) who had undergone a skin biopsy showed vasculopathy. Involvement of the lungs was identified in 68.6% (35/51) of patients, while only 22.2% (4/18) who had undergone a lung biopsy showed vasculopathy. Of 20 patients, 19 had increased immunoglobulin, mainly IgG. Furthermore, 45.1% (23/51) of patients had a positive low titer or were transiently positive for antinuclear antibodies. Of the 18 patients treated with JAK inhibitors, 6 relapsed and 2 died of acute respiratory failure caused by viral infection. Patients with p.N154S mutation had an earlier disease onset (p = 0.002) and more severe skin lesions (p < 0.001) than those patients with p.V155M mutation.

Conclusion: SAVI is an early-onset disease accompanied by skin and lung lesions whose clinical presentation varies among patients with different genotypes. Therapeutic effects of JAK inhibitors are unsatisfactory.
Conservative Non-intervention Approach for Hemodynamically Significant Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Extremely Preterm Infants
Authors: Sung Se In , Chang Yun Sil , Ahn So Yoon , Jo Heui Seung , Yang Misun , Park Won Soon
Published: December 2020

While persistent patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm infants has been known to be associated with increased mortality and morbidities including bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and necrotizing enterocolitis, there is minimal evidence supporting their causal relationships, and most traditional medical and/or surgical treatments have failed to show improvements in these outcomes. As such, the pendulum has swung toward the conservative non-intervention approach for the management of persistent PDA during the last decade; however, the benefits and risks of this approach are unclear. In this mini review, we focused on whom, when, and how to apply the conservative non-intervention approach for persistent PDA, especially in extremely preterm infants.
Thioredoxin Delays Photoreceptor Degeneration, Oxidative and Inflammation Alterations in Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Gimeno-Hernández Roberto , Cantó Antolin , Fernández-Carbonell Angel , Olivar Teresa , Hernández-Rabaza Vicente , Almansa Inmaculada , Miranda María
Published: December 2020

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited ocular disorder with no effective treatment. RP onset and progression trigger a cascade of retinal disorders that lead to the death of photoreceptors. After photoreceptors death, neuronal, glial and vascular remodeling can be observed in the retina. The purpose of this study was to study if thioredoxin (TRX) administration is able to decrease photoreceptor death in an animal model of RP (rd1 mouse), but also if it is able to modulate the retinal oxidative stress, glial and vascular changes that can be observed as the disease progresses. Wild type and rd1 mice received several doses of TRX. After treatment, animals were euthanized at postnatals days 11, 17, or 28. Glutathione (GSH) and other thiol compounds were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Glial fibrilary acidic protein (GFAP) and anti-ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1) were studied by immunohistochemistry. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hepatic growth factor (HGF) expression were determined by western blot. TRX administration significantly diminished cell death in rd1 mouse retinas and increased GSH retinal concentrations at postnatal day 11 (PN11). TRX was also able to reverse glial alterations at PN11 and PN17. No alterations were observed in retinal VEGF and HGF expression in rd1 mice. In conclusion, TRX treatment decreases photoreceptor death in the first stages of RP and this protective effect may be due in part to the GSH system activation and to a partially decrease in inflammation.
Implementation of a Compact Spot-Scanning Proton Therapy System in a GPU Monte Carlo Code to Support Clinical Routine
Authors: Gajewski Jan , Schiavi Angelo , Krah Nils , Vilches-Freixas Gloria , Rucinski Antoni , Patera Vincenzo , Rinaldi Ilaria
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this work was to implement a fast Monte Carlo dose calculation tool, Fred, in the Maastro proton therapy center in Maastricht (Netherlands) to complement the clinical treatment planning system. Fred achieves high accuracy and computation speed by using physics models optimized for radiotherapy and extensive use of GPU technology for parallelization. We implemented the beam model of the Mevion S250i proton beam and validated it against data measured during commissioning and calculated with the clinical TPS. The beam exits the accelerator with a pristine energy of around 230 MeV and then travels through the dynamically extendable nozzle of the device. The nozzle contains the range modulation system and the multi-leaf collimator system named adaptive aperture. The latter trims the spots laterally over the 20 × 20 cm2 area at the isocenter plane. We use a single model to parameterize the longitudinal (energy and energy spread) and transverse (beam shape) phase space of the non-degraded beam in the default nozzle position. The range modulation plates and the adaptive aperture are simulated explicitly and moved in and out of the simulation geometry dynamically by Fred. Patient dose distributions recalculated with Fred were comparable with the TPS and met the clinical criteria. Calculation time was on the order of 10–15 min for typical patient cases, and future optimization of the simulation statistics is likely to improve this further. Already now, Fred is fast enough to be used as a tool for plan verification based on machine log files and daily (on-the-fly) dose recalculations in our facility.
Mechanisms of Self-Organized Quasicriticality in Neuronal Network Models
Authors: Kinouchi Osame , Pazzini Renata , Copelli Mauro
Published: December 2020

The critical brain hypothesis states that there are information processing advantages for neuronal networks working close to the critical region of a phase transition. If this is true, we must ask how the networks achieve and maintain this critical state. Here, we review several proposed biological mechanisms that turn the critical region into an attractor of a dynamics in network parameters like synapses, neuronal gains, and firing thresholds. Since neuronal networks (biological and models) are not conservative but dissipative, we expect not exact criticality but self-organized quasicriticality, where the system hovers around the critical point.
Patterns of Toll-Like Receptor Expressions and Inflammatory Cytokine Levels and Their Implications in the Progress of Insulin Resistance and Diabetic Nephropathy in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Aly Rofyda H. , Ahmed Amr E. , Hozayen Walaa G. , Rabea Alaa Mohamed , Ali Tarek M. , El Askary Ahmad , Ahmed Osama M.
Published: December 2020

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DNP) is a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) chronic complication, which is the largest single cause of end-stage kidney disease. There is an increasing evidence of the role of inflammation and Toll-like receptors (TLRs) as part of innate immune system in its development and progression. In addition, Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) downward signaling causes the production of proinflammatory cytokines, which can induce insulin (INS) resistance in T2DM.

Objective: The goal of this study was to estimate the expression of TLRs (TLR2 and TLR4) in relation to inflammation and INS resistance in nephrotic type 2 diabetic patients with or without renal failure and to discuss the role of these TLRs in DNP progression.

Patients and Methods: In this study, blood samples were obtained from type 2 diabetic patients with or without renal failure, and patients with non-diabetic renal failure were compared to healthy controls. All participants were tested for analysis of fasting plasma glucose and serum insulin, kidney function tests, C-reactive protein (CRP), and proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) as well as expression of TLR2 and TLR4 in peripheral blood (PB). Statistical analysis of data was done by using SPSS.

Results: Diabetic patients with renal failure exhibited significant increase in TLR2, TLR4 mRNA expression in PB in comparison with normal subjects, diabetic patients without renal failure and non-diabetic patients with renal failure. Both diabetic patients with or without kidney failure and non-diabetic patients with renal failure had increased TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA expression in association with increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-6) compared to normal subjects. The diabetic patients with kidney failure exhibited the highest elevation of TLRs, Th1 cytokines and CRP in association the highest record of insulin resistance.

Conclusion: Toll-like receptor 2 and Toll-like receptor 4 increased expression and Th2 cytokines may have an important role in the progression of DNP and deteriorations in insulin resistance in type 2 diabetic patients. Therefore, TLR2 and TLR4 may be a promising therapeutic target to prevent or retard DNP in type 2 diabetic patients.
Early Changes in Nitrate Uptake and Assimilation Under Drought in Relation to Transpiration
Authors: Gloser Vít , Dvorackova Michaela , Mota Daniel Hernandez , Petrovic Bojana , Gonzalez Patricia , Geilfus Christoph Martin
Published: December 2020

Soil drying combined with nitrogen (N) deficiency poses a grave threat to agricultural crop production. The rate at which nitrate (NO3−) is taken up depends partly on the uptake and transpiration of water. Rapid changes in nitrate assimilation, in contrast to other N forms, may serve as a component of the plant stress response to drought because nitrate assimilation may lead to changes in xylem pH. The modulation of xylem sap pH may be relevant for stomata regulation via the delivery of abscisic acid (ABA) to guard cells. In several factorial experiments, we investigated the interactions between nitrate and water availability on nitrate fate in the plant, as well as their possible implications for the early drought-stress response. We monitored the short-term response (2–6 days) of nitrate in biomass, transport to shoot and reduction in Pisum sativum, Hordeum vulgare, Vicia faba, and Nicotiana tabacum and correlated this with sap pH and transpiration rates (TRs). Cultivation on inorganic substrate ensured control over nutrient and water supply and prevented nodulation in legume species. NO3− content in biomass decreased in most of the species under drought indicating significant decline in NO3− uptake. Hordeum vulgare had the highest NO3− concentrations in all organs even under drought and low NO3− treatment. This species can likely respond much better to the combined adverse effects of low NO3− and water scarcity. Nitrate reductase activity (NRA) was reduced in both roots and leaves of water deficient (WD) plants in all species except H. vulgare, presumably due to its high NO3− contents. Further, transient reduction in NO3− availability had no effect on sap pH. Therefore, it seems unlikely that NRA shifts from shoot root leading to the supposed alkalization of sap. We also did not observe any interactive effects of NO3− and water deficiency on transpiration. Hence, as long as leaf NO3− content remains stable, NO3− availability in soil is not linked to short-term modulation of transpiration.
Does Self-Efficacy and Emotional Control Protect Hospital Staff From COVID-19 Anxiety and PTSD Symptoms? Psychological Functioning of Hospital Staff After the Announcement of COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic
Authors: Bidzan Monika , Bidzan-Bluma Ilona , Szulman-Wardal Aleksandra , Stueck Marcus , Bidzan Mariola
Published: December 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in the hospital staff, as well as to identify protective factors of COVID-19 anxiety once the coronavirus pandemic was announced in Poland.

Methods

90 healthcare workers from the hospital in Poland completed validated self-report questionnaires assessing self-efficacy, emotional control, and PTSD symptoms; a questionnaire assessing COVID-19 anxiety; and a socio-demographic questionnaire. A multiple linear regression was conducted to assess the effects of gender, being directly vs indirectly exposed to patients, and general self-efficacy on COVID-19 anxiety.

Results

The analysis showed that female (β = −0.271, p < 0.01) healthcare professionals indirectly exposed to patients (β = −0.336, p < 0.01) and those who reported lower levels of general self-efficacy (β = −0.295, p < 0.01) have a stronger tendency to experience COVID-19 anxiety [R2 = 0.301, F(3,89) = 12.34, p < 0.01].

Conclusion

The findings show the importance of self-efficacy for dealing with COVID-19 anxiety. The internal coping strategies should be introduced to healthcare workers.
“Just One More Rep!” – Ability to Predict Proximity to Task Failure in Resistance Trained Persons
Authors: Armes Cedrik , Standish-Hunt Henry , Androulakis-Korakakis Patroklos , Michalopoulos Nick , Georgieva Tsvetelina , Hammond Alex , Fisher James P. , Gentil Paulo , Giessing Jürgen , Steele James
Published: December 2020

In resistance training, the use of predicting proximity to momentary task failure (MF, i.e., maximum effort), and repetitions in reserve scales specifically, is a growing approach to monitoring and controlling effort. However, its validity is reliant upon accuracy in the ability to predict MF which may be affected by congruence of the perception of effort compared with the actual effort required. The present study examined participants with at least 1 year of resistance training experience predicting their proximity to MF in two different experiments using a deception design. Within each experiment participants performed four trials of knee extensions with single sets (i.e., bouts of repetitions) to their self-determined repetition maximum (sdRM; when they predicted they could not complete the next repetition if attempted and thus would reach MF if they did) and MF (i.e., where despite attempting to do so they could not complete the current repetition). For the first experiment (n = 14) participants used loads equal to 70% of a one repetition maximum (1RM; i.e., the heaviest load that could be lifted for a single repetition) performed in a separate baseline session. Aiming to minimize participants between day variability in repetition performances, in the second separate experiment (n = 24) they used loads equal to 70% of their daily isometric maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Results suggested that participants typically under predicted the number of repetitions they could perform to MF with a meta-analytic estimate across experiments of 2.0 [95%CIs 0.0 to 4.0]. Participants with at least 1 year of resistance training experience are likely not adequately accurate at gauging effort in submaximal conditions. This suggests that perceptions of effort during resistance training task performance may not be congruent with the actual effort required. This has implications for controlling, programming, and manipulating the actual effort in resistance training and potentially on the magnitude of desired adaptations such as improvements in muscular hypertrophy and strength.
Workaholism in Korea: Prevalence and Socio-Demographic Differences
Authors: Kang Sudol
Published: December 2020

This study has two objectives – to provide a Korean form of the workaholism analysis questionnaire, and to analyze workaholic tendencies in South Korea by using a nationally representative data. Using 4,242 samples (2,497 men and 1,745 women), exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to develop a Korean form (K-WAQ). The four-factor structure of K-WAQ in this study seemed to adequately represent the underlying dimensions of work addiction in Korea. The study also analyzed the prevalence of workaholism among Koreans and its differences according to socio-demographic variables. Both mean difference analyses and logistic regressions were conducted. The overall result indicated that the prevalence of workaholism in Korea can be estimated to be 39.7% of the employees. The workaholic tendencies in Korea differ significantly according to gender, age, work hours, and voluntariness of choosing employment type. Practical as well as theoretical implications and future research directions are discussed.
Feeling Oneself Requires Embodiment: Insights From the Relationship Between Own-Body Transformations, Schizotypal Personality Traits, and Spontaneous Bodily Sensations
Authors: Michael George A. , Guyot Deborah , Tarroux Emilie , Comte Mylène , Salgues Sara
Published: December 2020

Subtle bodily sensations such as itching or fluttering that occur in the absence of any external trigger (i.e., spontaneous sensations, or SPS) may serve to locate the spatial boundaries of the body. They may constitute the normal counterpart of extreme conditions in which body-related hallucinations and perceptual aberrations are experienced. Previous investigations have suggested that situations in which the body is spontaneously experienced as being deformed are related to the ability to perform own-body transformations, i.e., mental rotations of the body requiring disembodiment. We therefore decided to consider whether the perception of SPS might relate to embodiment as assessed through (i) the ability to perform own-body transformations (OBT task) and (ii) schizotypal traits (Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, or SPQ), since high degrees of schizotypy in the general population have been associated with more vivid perceptions and aberrant perceptual experiences. Then participants completed a standard SPS task. Our analysis revealed that the slower the response time in the OBT task, the more frequent the perception of SPS. This suggests that difficulties in disembodying and mentally transforming one’s own body facilitate feeling oneself. Furthermore, a greater number of correct responses in the OBT task was associated with less frequent perception of SPS. This suggests that finding it easier to disembody and perform mental own-body transformations interferes with the ability to sense oneself. The results also show that higher schizotypal traits, as assessed through the SPQ, are associated with more frequent perception of SPS. Taken together, these results provide a coherent picture and suggest that embodiment is required in order to correctly feel oneself, as expressed through the perception of SPS. The ability to easily experience disembodiment reduces the sense of feeling oneself, and proneness to schizotypal traits produces body misperceptions that enhance and amplify this feeling. The results are discussed in the light of current knowledge and theories about body representations, taking into account attention and interoception as factors that influence body awareness. We offer explanations for perceptual aberrations, body-related delusions, and hallucinations based on misperceived or misinterpreted SPS, and we discuss possible mechanisms that may contribute to feeling and misperceiving oneself.
Studying Well and Performing Well: A Bayesian Analysis on Team and Individual Rowing Performance in Dual Career Athletes
Authors: Gavala-González Juan , Martins Bruno , Ponseti Francisco Javier , Garcia-Mas Alexandre
Published: December 2020

On many occasions, the maximum result of a team does not equate to the total maximum individual effort of each athlete (social loafing). Athletes often combine their sports life with an academic one (Dual Career), prioritizing one over the over in a difficult balancing act. The aim of this research is to examine the existence of social loafing in a group of novice university rowers and the differences that exist according to sex, academic performance, and the kind of sport previously practiced (individual or team). Therefore, a study was conducted from a probabilistic perspective using the Bayesian Network analysis methodology. The results confirm the existence of the Ringelmann effect or social loafing. The Bayesian analysis let us confirm that having a good student who practices a team sport, even in the individual rowing concept, increases the probability of obtaining greater performance (higher number of strokes and more power in each one). Therefore, when rowing partnerships are formed, the occurrence probability chain is quickly simplified, along with values of the top and bottom variables. Finally, the instantiations undertaken on the bottom variable that appears to be common in the two BNs, the watt input, enhance the results obtained. In short, rowers who have a better academic record are more involved in team testing, so this characteristic is defining when it comes to achieving better performance in team testing.
The Impact of Adolescents’ Attachment to Peers and Parents on Aggressive and Prosocial Behavior: A Short-Term Longitudinal Study
Authors: Vagos Paula , Carvalhais Lénia
Published: December 2020

This short-longitudinal study analyzed the cross-sectional and longitudinal pathways linking adolescent’s quality of attachment to parents and peers and their practice of aggressive and prosocial behavior; it also explored the moderation effect of gender on those pathways. A total of 375 secondary school students (203 girls and 172 boys), aged between 15 and 19 years old, completed the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment and the Peer Experience Questionnaire - Revised twice, within a four-month gap. Using a path analyses approach, results showed that aggression and prosocial behavior were the strongest predictors of themselves overtime. Attachment to mother had a cross-sectional effect on aggression and on prosocial behavior via attachment to peers, and attachment to peers predicted prosocial behavior; overall, the higher the quality of attachment, the lowest the practice of aggression and the highest the practice of prosocial behavior. These effects held stable for boys and girls, though gender-based differences were found in mean levels of attachment to peers and social behaviors. Even if other variables may be in place when understanding adolescents’ social behaviors, attachment to mother and peers also seem to play a relevant role in trying to achieve safer and more positive school climates. Suggestions on how to accomplish this are shortly discussed.
The Differential Effects of Anger on Trust: A Cross-Cultural Comparison of the Effects of Gender and Social Distance
Authors: Zhang Keshun , Goetz Thomas , Chen Fadong , Sverdlik Anna
Published: December 2020

Accumulating empirical evidence suggests that anger elicited in one situation can influence trust behaviors in another situation. However, the conditions under which anger influences trust are still unclear. The present study addresses this research gap and examines the ways in which anger influences trust. We hypothesized that the social distance to the trustee, and the trusting person’s gender would moderate the effect of anger on trust. To test this hypothesis, a study using a 2 (Anger vs. Control) × 2 (Low vs. High social distance) × 2 (Men vs. Women) factorial design was conducted in Germany (N= 215) and in China (N= 310). Results reveal that in both countries men’s trust behavior was not influenced by the manipulations (i.e., anger and social distance). The pattern for women, however, differed by country. In Germany, women’s trust to a stranger (i.e., high social distance) was increased by anger; while in China, women’s trust to someone who they have communicated with (i.e., low social distance) was increased by anger. These results indicate that women’s trust levels seem to be more context-sensitive than men’s.
Not Able to Lead a Healthy Life When You Need It the Most: Dual Role of Lifestyle Behaviors in the Association of Blurred Work-Life Boundaries With Well-Being
Authors: Pluut Helen , Wonders Jaap
Published: December 2020

As there is a growing trend for people to work from home, precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, this research examines the impact of blurred work-life boundaries on lifestyle and subjective well-being. Our cross-sectional study in the Netherlands demonstrates that heightened levels of blurred work-life boundaries predict negative changes in happiness through enhanced emotional exhaustion. In addition, the findings point to a dual role of lifestyle in this process. On the one hand, we observed that healthy overall lifestyle patterns buffered employees against the detrimental effects of blurred work-life boundaries and emotional exhaustion on happiness. On the other hand, employees who experienced increases in blurring of work-life boundaries reported a deterioration in healthy lifestyle behaviors, which in turn was related to reduced happiness. Paradoxically, it seems that those who would benefit the most from a healthy lifestyle are less able to sustain health-promoting behaviors. A case for shared responsibility between employers and employees is built as we discuss the practical implications of the current research.
Influence of Traditional Sporting Games on the Development of Creative Skills in Team Sports. The Case of Football
Authors: Oboeuf Alexandre , Hanneton Sylvain , Buffet Joséphine , Fantoni Corinne , Labiadh Lazhar
Published: December 2020

The aim of this present study is to investigate the influence of three learning contexts on the development of motor creativity of young footballers (8–9 years old). In team sport, creativity is a fundamental issue because it allows players to adapt in an environment of high social uncertainty. To carry out this work, we suggest a method for assessing motor creativity into ecological situations based on the analysis of praxical communications. Creativity originates from an interaction between divergence and convergence. In our case, the number of communications (fluidity) and the diversity of updated communications (flexibility) are our divergence indicators. Convergence, understood as the ability to make good decisions, is assessed by two expert judges (R > 0.90). Sixty boys’ football players (M = 8.67; SD = 0.3) coming from three football clubs participated in this research. The study lasted 2 years. Each year, a team of 10 players from each club participated in the research twice a week for 32 weeks (8 months), these groups attended different training sessions: (a) the control group (n = 20) followed a classical learning; (b) the decoding group (n = 20) attended training focused on learning the praxemes of football; (c) the traditional sporting games group (n = 20) followed a training session that was jointly focused on praxemes and the practice of traditional sporting games. The motor creativity of players and groups was assessed both at the beginning and at the end of the year during football matches. Compared to the control group, in the post-test, the group with the highest fluidity is the decoding group (p < 0.001) and the one with the highest fluidity is the traditional sporting games group. The latter group is also the one with the best convergence (p < 0.001). The results showed that traditional games can help develop players’ creative abilities. This research invites us to investigate the complementarity between the different offered training.
Assessment of Depression Severity During Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic Among the Palestinian Population: A Growing Concern and an Immediate Consideration
Authors: Al Zabadi Hamzeh , Alhroub Thair , Yaseen Noor , Haj-Yahya Maryam
Published: December 2020

Background: Aggressive quarantine and lockdown measures were implemented as protective public health actions during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Assessing the psychological effects associated with these measures is an important attempt to inform local policymakers in an early stage. Yet little is known about these effects, specifically depression, among the Palestinians. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and predictors of depression among the Palestinian community during this pandemic.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey throughout social media (Facebook and Instagram) was carried out using an anonymous online questionnaire. The validated and standardized depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS) was used to measure depression severity. A snowball technique recruiting the general public living in Palestine was conducted. Data were collected between 6 and 16 April 2020, which corresponded to the middle interval of strict massive lockdown in Palestine on 22 March to 5 May 2020. Multinomial logistic regression model was developed to predict depression severity.

Results: About 2,819 respondents filled out the questionnaire. Depression prevalence was (57.5%; n = 1,621). Out of them, 66% had mild/moderate severity, and 34% had severe/extremely severe degree. Depression severity was negatively associated with age {mild/moderate degree [OR (95% CI) = 0.98 (0.97–0.99)] and severe/extremely severe [OR (95% CI) = 0.96 (0.94–0.97)]} degrees compared with normal degree. Males were significantly less likely to have higher depression than females {mild/moderate degree [OR (95% CI) = 0.69 (0.57–0.85)] and severe/extremely severe [OR (95% CI) = 0.52 (0.40–0.86)]} degree. However, those who reported having inadequate food supply and lesser monthly incomes were more likely to have a higher degree of depression as compared with normal degree. Single persons were significantly more likely to have mild/moderate depression than those in a relationship [OR (95% CI) = 1.31 (1.05–1.64)].

Conclusions: High depression prevalence (57.5%) among the Palestinian community during the COVID-19 pandemic is a growing public health concern. It is essential to provide psychological counseling and treatment during and after the pandemic for the targeted people at high risk (young age/female gender) who were affected psychologically. Strategic long-term policy to address pandemic ramifications, including depression, by implementing comprehensive interventions taking into account socioeconomic disparities, vulnerability, and inequities, is crucial to emerge from this crisis in Palestine.
Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders: Current and Emerging Treatment Options
Authors: Garakani Amir , Murrough James W. , Freire Rafael C. , Thom Robyn P. , Larkin Kaitlyn , Buono Frank D. , Iosifescu Dan V.
Published: December 2020

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric disorders and a leading cause of disability. While there continues to be expansive research in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and schizophrenia, there is a relative dearth of novel medications under investigation for anxiety disorders. This review's first aim is to summarize current pharmacological treatments (both approved and off-label) for panic disorder (PD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), and specific phobias (SP), including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), azapirones (e.g., buspirone), mixed antidepressants (e.g., mirtazapine), antipsychotics, antihistamines (e.g., hydroxyzine), alpha- and beta-adrenergic medications (e.g., propranolol, clonidine), and GABAergic medications (benzodiazepines, pregabalin, and gabapentin). Posttraumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder are excluded from this review. Second, we will review novel pharmacotherapeutic agents under investigation for the treatment of anxiety disorders in adults. The pathways and neurotransmitters reviewed include serotonergic agents, glutamate modulators, GABAergic medications, neuropeptides, neurosteroids, alpha- and beta-adrenergic agents, cannabinoids, and natural remedies. The outcome of the review reveals a lack of randomized double-blind placebo- controlled trials for anxiety disorders and few studies comparing novel treatments to existing anxiolytic agents. Although there are some recent randomized controlled trials for novel agents including neuropeptides, glutamatergic agents (such as ketamine and d-cycloserine), and cannabinoids (including cannabidiol) primarily in GAD or SAD, these trials have largely been negative, with only some promise for kava and PH94B (an inhaled neurosteroid). Overall, the progression of current and future psychopharmacology research in anxiety disorders suggests that there needs to be further expansion in research of these novel pathways and larger-scale studies of promising agents with positive results from smaller trials.