bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atazanavir/ritonavir vs Efavirenz como primeira linha de tratamento em adultos vivendo com HIV
Authors: Neves José Kayque , Cavalcante Cláudia Menezes , Barros Rodrigo Josiman Serafim , Magalhães Marina Gabriella Pereira de Andrada , Souza Edvaldo da Silva
Published: August 2021

Introdução: Novos regimes de terapia antirretroviral (TARV) para HIV podem melhorar os resultados clínicos para os pacientes e de alterar a história natural da infecção. Os guidelines nacionais e internacionais recomendam atualmente a iniciar o tratamento dos indivíduos infectados para prevenir a deterioração do sistema imunológico e controlar a replicação viral, e consequente prevenção da transmissão da infecção pelo HIV. Objetivo: Analisar o uso da terapia antirretroviral que incluem Atazanavir/ritonavir (ATV/r) ou Efavirenz (EFV) na primeira linha de tratamento de pacientes adultos vivendo com HIV. Material e Métodos: O presente trabalho consiste em um estudo coorte retrospectivo. A coleta de dados ocorreu no período de agosto de 2019 a julho de 2020 e se concentrou no Serviço de Imunologia Clínica/Hospital-Dia do Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira - IMIP. Os dados foram retirados dos prontuários selecionados de maneira aleatória e registrados em questionários padronizados com posterior transcrição em planilhas computadorizadas. O projeto foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa em Seres Humanos (CEP) do IMIP/PE. Os dados foram transcritos no programa Excel, analisados no Epi Info™. Resultados: 131 pacientes participaram do estudo utilizando EFV ou ATV/r como terceira droga do esquema antirretroviral, sendo 73,3% pacientes EFV e 26,7% usando ATV/r. A supressão viral inicial foi observada em 88% (p > 0,05) dos pacientes, independentemente do esquema utilizado. Esquemas contendo ATV/r apresentaram uma prevalência de 47,1% de efeitos adversos e EFV 52,1% (p < 0,001). Conclusão: Os achados do desse estudo sugerem que tanto ATV/r quanto o EFV apresentaram efetividade semelhante quando utilizados como primeira linha de tratamento.
Aspectos neurobiológicos do desenvolvimento de psicopatologias nos profissionais de saúde durante o enfrentamento à pandemia do SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Silva Gisele Carvalho , Santos Maria Júlia Moura Nascimento , Magalhães Pedro Renan de Melo , Bem Junior Luiz Severo
Published: August 2021

Introdução: A pandemia do SARS-CoV-2, apesar de recente, impactou os sistemas de saúde em todo o mundo, resultando em grande sobrecarga psicológica para os profissionais da saúde atuantes no enfrentamento desta doença. A exposição a fatores estressores desencadeia diversas alterações neurobioquímicas que propiciam o desenvolvimento de psicopatologias como a ansiedade, depressão, Transtorno do Estresse Pós-Traumático e Síndrome de Burnout. Objetivo: o presente artigo busca, através de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, compreender as alterações neurobiológicas que ocorrem em profissionais da área de saúde atuantes na pandemia, devido aos estressores crônicos, bem como os problemas psicológicos associados a tais mudanças. Método: Revisão bibliográfica integrativa, utilizando-se as bases de dados PubMed e SciELO. Resultados: Os profissionais de saúde que atuam no enfrentamento da Covid-19 estão submetidos a situações de estresse agudo e crônico, acarretando no desencadeamento de reações como anormalidades no eixo HPA alterações nas monoaminas; aumento da inflamação; além da diminuição da neurogênese e neuroplasticidade, o que leva ao desenvolvimento de distúrbios psicológicos. Conclusão: Conclui-se que a situação de estresse vivenciada por estes profissionais que atuam no enfrentamento da Covid-19, leva ao desenvolvimento de alterações neurobiológicas, bem como ao aparecimento de quadros mais propícios de psicopatologias.
Impressão 3D na medicina legal e resolução de crimes: revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Vargas Brizza Fernandes dos Santos , Coutinho Melina Almeida , Coutinho Flaviane Silva
Published: August 2021

A tecnologia de impressão 3D oportunizou explorações em novas áreas biológicas, como na Medicina Legal, auxiliando na resolução de crimes. Considerando o uso dessa tecnologia na Perícia Criminal, este trabalho consiste em uma revisão literária que visa relatar a contribuição da impressão 3D na solução de atos criminosos. Foram relatadas as principais impressões 3D utilizadas, suas vantagens e desvantagens. Como adjuvante, foram apresentadas ainda as técnicas moleculares em impressões 3D que podem auxiliar na resolução de crimes. A análise dos dados revelou que o uso da tecnologia de impressão 3D colaborou nos laudos periciais que elucidaram investigações conduzidas na área criminal. A tecnologia apresentou-se como opção por reduzir custos, prazos e impactos invasivos sobre o corpo em contextos forenses. Concluiu-se que é preciso planejar a construção do objeto levando em conta restrições técnicas das impressoras 3D, principalmente o processo de digitalização. Além disso, determinar qual método computacional combinar para se obter os melhores resultados na Medicina Legal é passo crítico no processo de impressão.
Neuronal CD200 Signaling Is Protective in the Acute Phase of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Al Mamun Abdullah , Ngwa Conelius , Qi Shaohua , Honarpisheh Pedram , Datar Saumil , Sharmeen Romana , Xu Yan , McCullough Louise D. , Liu Fudong
Published: August 2021

Background and Purpose:

CD200 (cluster of differentiation 200), a highly glycosylated protein primarily expressed on neurons in the central nervous system, binds with its receptor CD200R to form an endogenous inhibitory signal against immune responses. However, little is known about the effect of neuronal CD200 signaling in cerebral ischemia. The aim of this study was to investigate how neuronal CD200 signaling impacts poststroke inflammation and the ischemic injury.

Methods:

CD200 tma1
lf/fl
:Thy1CreER mice were treated with tamoxifen to induce conditional gene knockout (ICKO) of neuronal CD200. The mice were subjected to a 60-minute transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Stroke outcomes, apoptotic cell death, immune cell infiltration, microglia activation, and other inflammatory profiles were evaluated at 3 and 7 days after stroke.

Results:

Infarct volumes were significantly larger, and behavioral deficits more severe in ICKO versus control mice at 3 days after middle cerebral artery occlusion. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay also revealed a significant increase in apoptotic neuronal death in CD200 ICKO mice. An enhancement in lymphocytic infiltration and microglial proinflammatory responses were revealed by flow cytometry at 3 and 7 days after stroke in ICKO mice, accompanied by an increased microglial phagocytosis activity. Plasma proinflammatory cytokine (TNFα [tumor necrosis factor alpha] and IL [interleukin]-1β) levels significantly increased at 3 days, and IL-1β/IL-6 levels increased at 7 days in ICKO versus control animals. ICKO led to significantly lower baseline level of CD200 both in brain and plasma.

Conclusions:

Neuronal CD200 inhibits proinflammatory responses and is protective against stroke injury.
Molecular Vibrations Are Not Asymmetric
Authors: de Haseth James A.
Published: August 2021

There is considerable confusion when naming vibrations in infrared and Raman spectra. One of the most common errors is the identification of some stretching and bending vibrations as “asymmetric”. There are no asymmetric vibrations as such vibrations incur rotations and translations. The correct term is antisymmetric and it is demonstrated, through molecular symmetry operations, why this is the correct term.
Modeling with Multiple Correlated Spectral Data Based on Approximating the Nonlinear Spectrum Induced by Scattering
Authors: Luo Yongshun , Li Gang , Shan Guosong , Lin Ling
Published: August 2021

In the spectral quantitative analysis of scattering solution, the improvement of accuracy is seriously restricted by the nonlinearity caused by scattering, and even the measurement will fail due to the influence of scattering. The important reasons are that the modeling variables are greatly affected by nonlinearity, and the information contained in the modeling data cannot represent the scattering characteristics. In this paper, a method is proposed, in which the spectral data of several optical pathlengths with equal space are combined as the modeling data set of a sample. These highly correlated spectral data contain relatively nonlinear information. The addition of the spectral data provides more options for the selection of principal components in modeling with PLS method. By giving lower weight to the corresponding wavelength which is greatly affected by scattering, the model is insensitive to scattering and the prediction accuracy is improved. Through the spectral quantitative analysis experiment on strong scattering material, the prediction accuracy of the model was 61.7% higher than that of the traditional method and was 58.5% higher than that of the variable sorting for normalization method. The feasibility of the method is verified.
Structural Intersectionality as a New Direction for Health Disparities Research
Authors: Homan Patricia , Brown Tyson H. , King Brittany
Published: August 2021

This article advances the field by integrating insights from intersectionality perspectives with the emerging literatures on structural racism and structural sexism—which point to promising new ways to measure systems of inequality at a macro level—to introduce a structural intersectionality approach to population health. We demonstrate an application of structural intersectionality using administrative data representing macrolevel structural racism, structural sexism, and income inequality in U.S. states linked to individual data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to estimate multilevel models (N = 420,644 individuals nested in 76 state-years) investigating how intersecting dimensions of structural oppression shape health. Analyses show that these structural inequalities: (1) vary considerably across U.S. states, (2) intersect in numerous ways but do not strongly or positively covary, (3) individually and jointly shape health, and (4) are most consistently associated with poor health for black women. We conclude by outlining an agenda for future research on structural intersectionality and health.
Educational Outcomes of a Cohort of Children With Autism Who Received Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention
Authors: Dimian Adele F. , Wolff Jason J. , Symons Frank J.
Published: August 2021

Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI) can be effective for supporting skills acquisition among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Few studies have followed children with ASD who received EIBI into schools. The purpose of this study was to investigate educational outcomes specific to instructional placement, standardized test proficiency, and special education eligibility under the ASD category for children who received EIBI. Medicaid records were utilized to create a cross-systems data set of 3- to 5-year-old children with ASD ( n = 667). Most students were placed in general education, and males and White students were more likely to receive special education services for ASD. Only half of the students participated in standardized testing and met proficiency standards. Implications for future research and advocacy for early intervention are discussed.
Scrub typhus meningoencephalitis presenting as opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome: A video-based case
Authors: Ramkumarsingh Tomar Laxmikant , Jatinbhai Shah Dhrumil , Agarwal Utkarsh , Gogia Atul , Rohatgi Anshu , Agrawal CS
Published: August 2021

Opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome secondary to scrub typhus infection is a rare clinical entity. Hence, it is important to know its clinical manifestations and complications, so that it can be properly managed. We report a 28-year-old female whose initial manifestation was only fever, which subsided in four days. Two days later, she developed opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome. This was managed with doxycycline and clonazepam, but as it persisted, intravenous immunoglobulin was added. She showed excellent response to treatment.
The Effects of a Community-Based, Multicomponent, Depression Prevention Intervention in Mothers At-Risk
Authors: Atkins Rahshida , Kelly Terri-Ann , Linz Sheila J. , Jackson Kathleen J. , Pontes Manuel CF , Wunnenberg Mary , Williams Kathleen , Stellmacher Tiffany , Lewis Helene , Halty Nisoni-Davis , Williams Wanda
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to develop a 12-week multicomponent, depression prevention pilot intervention and evaluate its feasibility and preliminary effects on improving levels and correlates of depressive symptoms, including anger, self-esteem perceived stress, social support, and racism. A quasi-experimental, mixed-methods design and a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach was employed. University faculty, students and community residents collaborated at a low-income housing complex in a low-resourced, urban community. Fifteen low-income, ethnic minority mothers ages 23–46 years completed the intervention and evaluation surveys. Eight mothers participated in a focus group. The intervention included social group-dance, health education, and socialization. t-Tests, sign-tests, and thematic analysis was employed. Mothers identified barriers and facilitators of program engagement. Depressive symptoms were significantly reduced  ( t(14) = 2.41, p = .030). Self-esteem ( t(14) = 2.28, p = .039) and social support levels ( M = 4.5, p = .035) were significantly increased. This multicomponent intervention is feasible. Preliminary efficacy evidence was mixed.
Enrolling Caregivers in Obesity Interventions to Improve Obesity-Related Outcomes in Children
Authors: Bessette Hannah , Song MinKyoung , Lyons Karen S. , Stoyles Sydnee , Lee Christopher S. , Hansen Lissi , Winters-Stone Kerri
Published: August 2021

In this study, we assessed the influences of change in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA)/sedentary time (ST) of caregivers participating in a commercial weight-loss program on their children’s change in MVPA/ST. Data from 29 caregivers and their children were collected over 8 weeks. We used multivariable linear regression to assess associations of changes in caregiver’s percent of time spent in MVPA/ST and changes in their child’s percent of time spent in MVPA/ST. For caregivers that decreased body mass index (BMI) over 8 weeks, changes in caregivers’ MVPA was strongly associated with the change in children’s MVPA (β = 2.61 [95% CI: 0.45, 4.77]) compared to caregivers who maintained/increased BMI (β = 0.24 [–2.16, 2.64]). Changes in caregivers’ ST was strongly associated with changes in children’s ST (β = 2.42 [1.02, 3.81]) compared to caregivers who maintained/increased BMI (β = 0.35 [–0.45, 1.14]). Findings reinforce encouraging caregivers to enroll in weight-loss programs for the benefit of their children as well as for themselves.
Anti-gravity treadmill rehabilitation improves gait and muscle atrophy in patients with surgically treated ankle and tibial plateau fractures after one year: A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Palke Lisa , Schneider Sebastian , Karich Bernhard , Mende Meinhard , Josten Christoph , Böhme Jörg , Henkelmann Ralf
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To compare the one-year postoperative outcomes of anti-gravity treadmill rehabilitation with those of standard rehabilitation in patients with ankle or tibial plateau fractures.

Design:

An open-label prospective randomised study.

Setting:

Three trauma centres.

Subjects:

Patients were randomised into the intervention (anti-gravity treadmill) or control (standard protocol) rehabilitation group.

Main measures:

The primary endpoint was changes in the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score for ankle fractures and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for tibial plateau fractures from baseline to 12 months after operation. Secondary endpoints were the subscores of these scores, muscle atrophy (leg circumference at 20 cm above and 10 cm below the knee joint) and the Dynamic Gait Index.

Results:

Initially, 73 patients (37 vs 36) underwent randomisation. After 12 months, 29 patients in the intervention group and 24 patients in the control group could be analysed. No significant difference was noted in the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (80.8 ± 18.4 and 78.4 ± 21.1) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (84.8 ± 15.2 and 81.7 ± 17.0). The change in the Dynamic Gait Index from 12 weeks to 12 months differed significantly between the groups ( P = 0.04). Patients with tibial plateau fractures had a 3 cm wider thigh circumference in the intervention group than those in the control group (95% confidence interval: −0.2 to 6.3 cm, P = 0.08).

Conclusion:

One year after surgery, patients who had undergone anti-gravity treadmill rehabilitation showed better gait than patients in the control group, and those with tibial plateau fractures had less muscle atrophy.
Sequential robot imitation learning from observations
Authors: Tanwani Ajay Kumar , Yan Andy , Lee Jonathan , Calinon Sylvain , Goldberg Ken
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a framework to learn the sequential structure in the demonstrations for robot imitation learning. We first present a family of task-parameterized hidden semi-Markov models that extracts invariant segments (also called sub-goals or options) from demonstrated trajectories, and optimally follows the sampled sequence of states from the model with a linear quadratic tracking controller. We then extend the concept to learning invariant segments from visual observations that are sequenced together for robot imitation. We present Motion2Vec that learns a deep embedding space by minimizing a metric learning loss in a Siamese network: images from the same action segment are pulled together while being pushed away from randomly sampled images of other segments, and a time contrastive loss is used to preserve the temporal ordering of the images. The trained embeddings are segmented with a recurrent neural network, and subsequently used for decoding the end-effector pose of the robot. We first show its application to a pick-and-place task with the Baxter robot while avoiding a moving obstacle from four kinesthetic demonstrations only, followed by suturing task imitation from publicly available suturing videos of the JIGSAWS dataset with state-of-the-art [Formula: see text]% segmentation accuracy and [Formula: see text] cm error in position per observation on the test set.
Revised Method for Calculating Departure Sight Distance at Two-Way Stop-Controlled (TWSC) Intersections
Authors: Dabbour Essam , Easa Said M.
Published: August 2021

This paper introduces realistic acceleration profiles for light-duty vehicles departing from rest at two-way stop-controlled (TWSC) intersections where minor roads (controlled by stop signs) intersect with uncontrolled major roads. The new profiles are based on current vehicle characteristics and driver behavior patterns. They are established based on actual field data collected using global positioning system data loggers that recorded the positional and speed data of various experimental vehicles starting from rest at TWSC intersections. Acceleration profiles are established in this paper and are used to develop a revised method for calculating the departure sight distance at TWSC intersections. Design tables were created to provide realistic sight distance values at TWSC intersections for different design speeds and number of lanes on the major road. It was found that the current values of intersection sight distance suggested by the design guides may be inadequate. Such values may force some approaching drivers on the major road to reduce their speeds or move to different traffic lanes to avoid conflicting with the departing vehicles. These maneuvers may have negative impacts on traffic safety. Therefore, implementing the revised method for calculating intersection sight distance, as presented in this paper, may ultimately reduce traffic collisions at TWSC intersections.
Antecedent Minor Trauma and Hyperacute Presentations in Childhood Transverse Myelitis
Authors: Lim Jocelyn , Hamouda Ehab Shaban , Fortier Marielle Valerie , Thomas Terrence
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Fibrocartilaginous embolism and spinal cord infarction may resemble transverse myelitis with antecedent minor trauma (sporting activity or minor falls) or with hyperacute (<12-hour) presentation.

Methods:

Diagnostic criteria for fibrocartilaginous embolism and spinal cord infarction were applied to a 10-year (2007-2016) cohort of children aged 1 month to 16 years with transverse myelitis and clinical, laboratory, neuroimaging, and outcome data compared between those with and without antecedent minor trauma.

Results:

Thirty-two children of median age 8.9 (range 2.7-15.8) years were included; 19 (59%) were female. Falls at home, school, or play (6 children, 60%), swimming (2, 20%), physical education (1, 10%), and caning (1, 10%) were antecedent events in 10 (31%) children. Six (19%) had hyperacute presentations. One patient met spinal cord infarction criteria; none had fibrocartilaginous embolism. Children with transverse myelitis and antecedent minor trauma had single, short spinal cord lesions (median 3 vertebral bodies) but without a specific neuroimaging lesion pattern. None had intervertebral disc abnormalities or brain involvement and were negative for myelin oligodendrocyte and aquaporin 4 antibodies. Twenty-five (86%) of 29 had cerebrospinal fluid inflammation, and 30 (94%) received immunotherapy. Thirty (97%) were followed for a median of 3.6 (0.1-10.2) years, with good outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-1) in the majority (80%). Four (75%) with hyperacute presentation had a good outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0-1), but the patient with spinal cord infarction was the most disabled (modified Rankin Scale score 4).

Conclusion:

Minor trauma or hyperacute presentations does not always indicate fibrocartilaginous embolism or spinal cord infarction. Children with minor trauma preceding transverse myelitis have a distinct clinicoradiologic syndrome, with good outcome following immunotherapy.
“If I’d Had Something Like SAFE at the Time, Maybe I Would’ve Left Him Sooner.”—Essential Features of eHealth Interventions for Women Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence: A Qualitative Study
Authors: van Gelder Nicole , Ligthart Suzanne , ten Elzen Julia , Prins Judith , van Rosmalen-Nooijens Karin , Oertelt-Prigione Sabine
Published: August 2021

Approximately one in three women worldwide experiences intimate partner violence and abuse (IPVA) in her lifetime. Despite its frequent occurrence and severe consequences, women often refrain from seeking help. eHealth has the potential to remove some of the barriers women face in help seeking and disclosing. To guarantee the client-centeredness of an (online) intervention it is important to involve the target group and people with expertise in the development process. Therefore, we conducted an interview study with survivors and professionals, in order to assess needs, obstacles, and wishes with regard to an eHealth intervention for women experiencing IPVA. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 women (8 survivors and 8 professionals) between 22 and 52 years old, with varied experiences of IPVA and help. Qualitative data was analyzed using a grounded theory approach and open thematic coding. During analysis we identified a third stakeholder group within the study population: survivor-professionals, with both personal experiences of and professional knowledge on IPVA. All stakeholder groups largely agree on the priorities for an eHealth intervention: safety, acknowledgment, contact with fellow survivors, and help. Nevertheless, the groups offer different perspectives, with the survivor-professionals functioning as a bridge group between the survivors and professionals. The groups prioritize different topics. For example, survivors and survivor-professionals highlighted the essential need for safety, while professionals underlined the importance of acknowledgment. Survivor-professionals were the only ones to emphasize the importance of addressing various life domains. The experiences of professionals and survivors highlight a broad range of needs and potential obstacles for eHealth interventions. Consideration of these findings could improve the client-centeredness of existing and future (online) interventions for women experiencing IPVA.
A control strategy for efficient slip ratio regulation of a pneumatic brake system for commercial vehicles
Authors: Kim Jayu , Kwon Baeksoon , Park Youngnam , Cho HyunJong , Yi Kyongsu
Published: August 2021

This paper presents a control strategy for efficient slip ratio regulation of a pneumatic brake system for commercial vehicles. A model-based estimator for brake pressure estimation has been developed. The braking torque applied to the wheel has been computed using the estimated brake pressure for the control of the wheel slip both in braking and traction situations. The vehicle velocity and wheel slip ratio estimation algorithms have been designed using only wheel speed sensors. The proposed slip regulation algorithm has also been successfully implemented for the antilock braking system (ABS) and traction control system (TCS). In ABS, the slip ratio and wheel acceleration are stabilized by a limit cycle control of the braking pressure. The TCS has been implemented by combining engine torque control and pneumatic brake pressure control. The brake controller is based on the valve switched control that incorporates the wheel dynamics and valve on/off characteristics. The ABS and TCS algorithms are integrated into the slip regulation algorithm to reduce the computation load of an Electrical Control Unit (ECU). Four-wheel independent slip monitoring and slip ratio control algorithms have been implemented on the ECU, and their performance has been investigated via both computer simulations and vehicle tests. Both results show that the proposed algorithms enhance the acceleration and braking performance without vehicle acceleration information. Moreover, the proposed split-mu strategy has improved the lateral stability during braking, and the acceleration performance during accelerating on the split-mu road. It has been shown via vehicle tests that, compared to the reference commercial algorithm, the braking distance was reduced by more than 4% on the split-mu and low-mu roads, and the acceleration performance was improved by 7.9% on the split-mu road.
Is Environment Degradation a Pre-condition to Economic Growth? A Case of India and China
Authors: Shahani Rakesh , Khaneja Nitin
Published: August 2021

This study is an attempt to model the co-integrating relation between economic growth and environmental degradation for two countries namely India and China. Although CO2 emissions has been the proxy for environmental degradation for most research papers, the study also includes a supplementary proxy environment variable viz forest area as a percentage of land area reflecting the depleting green cover. Thus, the study includes gross domestic product (GDP) per capita as the dependent variable and two regressors as carbon dioxide emissions per capita and forest area as a percentage of land area. The study also includes two additional regressors as trade as a percentage of GDP (proxy for trade openness) and domestic credit to the private sector (proxy for financial development), all converted to natural log terms, and the relation between the variables has been tested using autoregressive distributed lag bounds co-integration approach. The results of the study showed that long-run ‘F’ bounds co-integration test of autoregressive distributed lag was accepted for India but was rejected in case of China. For India, temporal causality was also seen to flow from forest area to per capita GDP with negative cause–effect relation, which was confirmed by Toda and Yamamoto (1995, Journal of Econometrics, 66(1–2), 225–250) causality results. Further with respect to India with a significant co-integration results, vector error correction model was worked out and the results showed that error correction (ECM) coefficient (which was found to be negative and significant) showed that the process of movement towards equilibrium was unexpectedly slow at a rate less than 0.01% per period. The main contribution of the study was to include a new proxy ‘forest area’ for environmental degradation and to empirically prove that with the decrease in forest cover there was a rise in economic growth.
Financial Performance of Farmer Producer Companies of India: A Study from 2013–2014 to 2018–2019
Authors: Kakati Shivam , Roy Arup
Published: August 2021

The prime objective of the study is to analyse and evaluate the financial performance of the FPCs in India. Financial ratios, trend analysis and grey relational analysis (GRA) were the tools used to achieve this objective. The present study analysed the financial performance of 83 FPCs in India from 2013–2014 to 2018–2019. The liquidity position of the FPCs was found to be above satisfactory levels. The solvency position of the FPCs was found to be improving as they were shifting from debt financing to equity financing. The efficiency and profitability positions of the FPCs were below par. Almost one-third of the FPCs were loss-making in 2018–2019. Using GRA, ‘Howrah Agro Producer Company’ from West Bengal was found to be the best performing FPC among the select 83 FPCs. The solvency position of the FPCs was found to have a strong positive association with the overall financial performance of the FPCs. The study also proposed financial ratio benchmarks for the FPCs using quartiles. The present study finally proposes to incorporate ‘second-class shareholders’ into the FPC model. These shareholders would have limited rights and voting power, and they would provide FPCs with capital, marketing channels and managerial support.
MALDI-TOF MS identification of Prototheca algae associated with bovine mastitis
Authors: Fidelis Carlos E. , Franke Manoela , de Abreu Letícia C. R. , Jagielski Tomasz , Ribeiro Márcio G. , dos Santos Marcos V. , Gonçalves Juliano L.
Published: August 2021

We evaluated the use of MALDI-TOF MS for the identification of 3 major, dairy-associated Prototheca species, namely, Prototheca bovis (formerly P. zopfii genotype 2), P. blaschkeae, and P. ciferrii (formerly P. zopfii genotype 1). The MALDI-TOF MS spectra established for those species were introduced into the reference spectra library of the Bruker Biotyper MALDI-TOF MS analysis software. Next, 31 Prototheca isolates from Holstein cows with mastitis, from herds located in the midwestern area of São Paulo State, Brazil, were subjected to MALDI-TOF MS profiling. MALDI-TOF MS allowed identification of 22 of 27 P. bovis and 3 of 4 P. blaschkeae isolates with scores >2.0, with 5 of 27 P. bovis and 1 of 4 P. blaschkeae isolates identified only to the genus level. With our extended algae database, MALDI-TOF MS can contribute to quick and effective speciation of Prototheca from mastitis cases.
Supporting Those Who Love the Loathed: Trauma-Informed Support Groups for Family Members of Registered Sex Offenders
Authors: Kavanagh Shelley , Levenson Jill
Published: August 2021

Social workers are typically empathic, but it can be challenging to offer compassionate care to those who harmed others and, by extension, to the people who love them. This article describes a trauma-informed support group intervention for family members of individuals required to register as sex offenders (RSOs). We begin with a brief overview of this unique population, review the empirical research exploring family members’ needs and the services available to them, and introduce the trauma-informed framework for our support group. We will then describe the group’s development and dynamics. Finally, we will highlight trauma-informed practice skills and tools for facilitating effective and empowering support services with this hidden and stigmatized population.
Relationship Between Symptom Distress and Fatigue Characteristics in Patients with Gastric Cancer During 1 Month after Gastrectomy
Authors: Yang Hui-Ying , Lee Yun-Hsiang , Wu Jin-Ming , Lai I-Rue , Shun Shiow-Ching
Published: August 2021

This study’s purpose was to describe changes in symptom distress and fatigue characteristics identifying which symptoms significantly impacted fatigue characteristics of patients with Gastric Cancer (GC) within 1 month after gastrectomy. A prospective longitudinal study was conducted. Patients with GC who were scheduled for gastrectomy were recruited from surgical outpatient clinics and surgery wards in northern Taiwan. Data were collected using a set of questionnaires before (T0) and 7 (T1) and 28 days (T2) after gastrectomy. Over all, 86 patients experienced mild levels of fatigue and symptom distress. The changes in worst fatigue and fatigue interference were greatest at T1. Anxiety had a significant negative effect on both worst fatigue and fatigue interference. Dry mouth, pain, and body image had significant deleterious effects on worst fatigue. The co-occurring symptoms affecting fatigue for patients with GC in the acute phase after gastrectomy should be actively assessed to ensure optimal fatigue management.
Psychometric Validation of a Combined Assessment for Anxiety and Depression in Primary Care in Mozambique (CAD-MZ)
Authors: Belus Jennifer M. , Muanido Alberto , Cumbe Vasco F. J. , Manaca Maria Nelia , Wagenaar Bradley H.
Published: August 2021

This study sought to validate a combined assessment for major depression and generalized anxiety, administered by health providers in a primary care setting in Mozambique. Patients attending a primary care visit ( N = 502) were enrolled in the study and completed the Patient Health Questionniare–9, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7, and six items identified in a global systematic qualitative review of depression that were not captured in existing measures (e.g., social isolation, “thinking too much,” and “heart problems”). A separate trained mental health provider conducted the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview 5.0, adapted for Mozambique, to establish clinical diagnoses. Item response theory, factor analysis, and receiver operating characteristics were all used to identify the best screening items. Eight items were identified for the final screener: four items from the Patient Health Questionniare–9, two from the Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7, and two from the global depression literature. A cut-score of 7 was found to consistently increase the diagnostic likelihood of having a particular disorder. Overall, findings indicate good clinical utility of the screener in primary care in Mozambique.
Bidirectional Associations Between Maternal Mental Health and Child Sleep Problems in Children With ADHD: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Martin Christina A. , Mulraney Melissa , Papadopoulos Nicole , Rinehart Nicole J. , Sciberras Emma
Published: August 2021

Background:

Children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience more sleep problems than their typically developing peers. In addition, their parents experience higher rates of mental health difficulties relative to parents of children without ADHD. Cross-sectional studies have reported associations; however, longitudinal studies have not yet been conducted. This study aimed to investigate potential bidirectional relationships between sleep problems in children with ADHD and maternal mental health difficulties (i.e. overall mental health, depression, anxiety, stress) over a 12-month period.

Methods:

Female caregivers of 379 children with ADHD (5–13 years) reported on their child’s sleep (Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire) and their own mental health (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale) at three time points over a 12-month period (baseline, 6-months, and 12-months). Autoregressive cross-lagged panel analyses were used to analyze the data, controlling for child age, child sex, ADHD symptom severity, ADHD medication use, comorbidities (autism spectrum disorder, internalizing disorders, and externalizing disorders), caregiver age, and socioeconomic disadvantage.

Results:

Child sleep problems and maternal mental health difficulties were highly stable across the 12-month period. In addition, longitudinal relationships were evident, with child sleep problems at 6-months predicting both overall maternal mental health difficulties and maternal anxiety at 12-months. However, child sleep problems at 6-months did not predict maternal depression or maternal stress at 12-months. There was little evidence that maternal mental health difficulties predicted child sleep problems over the 12-month period.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates that despite the stability in child sleep problems and maternal mental health difficulties over time, sleep problems in children with ADHD contribute to later maternal mental health difficulties. This suggests that sleep interventions to improve child sleep may lead to an improvement in maternal mental health over time. It also suggests a need to be aware of the potential mental health difficulties being experienced by mothers who have children with sleep problems.
Exploring the Direct and Indirect Linkages Between Supervisory Disrespect and Officer Cooperation and Disrespect in Policing
Authors: Williams Cynthia-Lee , Wu Yuning , Sun Ivan Y. , Van Craen Marrten
Published: August 2021

Although recent studies have found that organizational justice is instrumental in promoting beneficial outcomes within police agencies, relatively little is known about how organizational injustice may be linked to police officers’ occupational attitudes and behaviors. We propose a theoretical framework linking disrespectful supervisors directly to officers’ willingness to cooperate with supervisors and treat citizens with respect and indirectly through occupational stress, organizational commitment, and organizational identification. Based on survey data collected from 584 police officers in Taiwan, we tested the proposed direct and indirect relationships using structural equation modeling (SEM) approaches. We found that having disrespectful supervisors directly lowers officers’ willingness to work with supervisors. The relationship between disrespectful supervisors and disrespectful officers is largely indirect, mediated by occupational stress, organizational commitment, and organizational identification. Implications for future research and policy are discussed.
Personal stories in migration museums and our notions of hospitality: A case study from France’s National Museum of the History of Immigration
Authors: Lenart-Cheng Helga
Published: August 2021

The number of migration museums is growing all over the world. These new museums seek to actively shape debates about immigration, and they often rely on immigrants’ personal stories to engage museum visitors and immigrant communities in dialogue. The article uses the case study of France’s National Museum of the History of Immigration in Paris and its collection of personal stories (The Gallery of Gifts) to explore this new form of story-activism and our concepts of hospitality. Drawing on Hélène du Mazaubrun’s, Jacques Derrida’s, Joan Stavo-Debauge’s and Paul Ricoeur’s ideas about gifting, hospitality, and recognition, I examine some challenging politico-ethical questions prompted by these immigrant story exhibitions.
The “Great Replacement” conspiracy: How the perceived ousting of Whites can evoke violent extremism and Islamophobia
Authors: Obaidi Milan , Kunst Jonas , Ozer Simon , Kimel Sasha Y.
Published: August 2021

Increased immigration and demographic changes have not only resulted in political pushback, but also in violent attacks against immigrants. Several recent terrorist attacks committed by White supremacists invoke rhetoric around a deliberate attempt to make Whites extinct and replace them with non-Western immigrants. Yet, while it is widely acknowledged among extremism researchers that this perception of orchestrated extinction or replacement has tremendous potential to lead to violent extremism, its consequences have not yet been directly examined. Using the Scandinavian context (e.g., Denmark and Norway), in two correlational studies and one experiment, we provide evidence that this perception is associated with the persecution of Muslims, violent intentions, and Islamophobia. Further, we demonstrate that these associations are mediated by symbolic threats. Conspiracy beliefs that one’s group is being replaced seem to drive hostile intergroup attitudes. We discuss the societal implications of this finding (i.e., generating fear, polarization, and hostile public opinion towards immigrants).
Numerical investigation on the smoke behaviour and longitudinal temperature decay in tilted tunnel fire with portal sealing
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Li Yanfeng , Li Junmei , Yang Quan
Published: August 2021

Blocking the tunnel portal is one strategy in railway tunnel firefighting. In order to evaluate the effect of tunnel portal sealing ratio on fire behaviour, Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) was used to simulate tilted tunnel fire with different slope angles varying from 0% to 5%, heat release rate varying from 10 to 50 MW and sealing ratios varying from 0% to 75%. Results show that the experimental data of the temperature distribution inside the tilted tunnel were in good agreement with the simulation results. Moreover, the ceiling temperature rise decreases along the tunnel with the increase of the tunnel portal sealing ratio at initial stage and then tends to stabilize because of less oxygen supply when the heat release rate is relatively large. The maximum temperature rise decays exponentially along the tunnel ceiling with distance. The current model for temperature decay beneath the tunnel ceiling was proposed to be modified by taking the tunnel entrance sealing ratio into account. The predictions by the modified model agree well with the experimental measurement. The results could provide practical information and knowledge in ventilation system design and emergency evacuation for inclined railway tunnels.
Perceptions of police training needs in cyber-crime
Authors: Harkin Diarmaid , Whelan Chad
Published: August 2021

A common observation in the literature on cyber-crime policing is the need for more training. However, there is little detail of who within the police organisation requires training and what type of training may be needed. Based on survey and interview data from three specialist cyber-crime units in Australia, this article identifies that ‘lack of training’ is likely to have distinct meanings for different groups within the police: (a) front-line officers, (b) higher management, (c) generalist investigators, and (d) specialist investigators and civilians in cyber-crime units. Each of these groups is likely to face unique training needs that undermines the overall effectiveness of police organisations to respond to cyber-crime. The article explores the perceived training requirements across each of these groups and some potential ways in which they can be addressed in an effort to stimulate further research in this area focusing on the differentiated internal needs of police organisations.
Child Maltreatment, Peer Victimization, and Mental Health: Neurocognitive Perspectives on the Cycle of Victimization
Authors: Goemans Anouk , Viding Essi , McCrory Eamon
Published: August 2021

Children who experience maltreatment are at increased risk of revictimization across the life span. In childhood, this risk often manifests as peer victimization. Understanding the nature of this risk, and its impact on mental health, is critical if we are to provide effective support for those children who are most vulnerable. A systematic scoping review was conducted using Google Scholar and PsycINFO. Studies on adults, psychiatric, and/or inpatient populations were excluded. Included studies concerned all forms of child maltreatment and peer victimization. We found 28 studies about the association between maltreatment experience and peer victimization as well as peer rejection. We review the evidence documenting the relation between these adverse childhood experiences and mental health. The evidence suggests that maltreatment and peer victimization have additive effects on mental health outcomes. A number of theoretical developmental frameworks that delineate putative mechanisms that might account for an association are considered. Building on prior research, we then discuss the role of recent neurocognitive findings in providing a multilevel framework for conceptualizing mental health vulnerability following maltreatment. In addition, we consider how altered neurocognitive functioning following maltreatment may shed light on why affected children are more likely to be victimized by their peers. Specifically, we consider the threat, reward, and autobiographical memory systems and their role in relation to stress generation, stress susceptibility, and social thinning. Such a mechanistic understanding is necessary if we are to reduce the likelihood of peer victimization in children exposed to maltreatment, and move to a preventative model of mental health care.
MiR-188-3p and miR-133b Suppress Cell Proliferation in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Post-Transcriptional Suppression of NDRG1
Authors: Luo Zhenzhao , Fan Yue , Liu Xianchang , Liu Shuiyi , Kong Xiaoyu , Ding Zhonghuan , Li Ying , Wei Liqing
Published: August 2021

Background:

Previous studies reported that N-myc downstream-regulated gene 1 (NDRG1) was upregulated in various cancer tissues and decreased expression of miR-188-3p and miR-133b could suppress cell proliferation, metastasis, and invasion and induce apoptosis of cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanism of NRDG1 involved in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumorigenesis is still unknown.

Methods:

The expressions of miR-188-3p, miR-133b, and NRDG1 in HCC tissues and cells were quantified by qRT-PCR and Western blot. MTT assay and transwell invasion assay were performed to evaluate cell growth and cell migration, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay were performed to determine whether miR-188-3p and miR-133b could directly bind to NRDG1 in HCC cells.

Results:

The results showed that NRDG1 was upregulated and these 2 microRNAs were downregulated in HCC tissues. NRDG1 was negatively correlated with miR-188-3p and miR-133b in HCC tissues. MiR-188-3p and miR-133b were demonstrated to directly bind to 3′UTR of NRDG1 and inhibit its expression. Upregulation of miR-188-3p and miR-133b reduced NRDG1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines, which consequently inhibited cell growth and cell migration.

Conclusions:

Our finding suggested that miR-188-3p and miR-133b exert a suppressive effect on hepatocellular carcinoma proliferation, invasion, and migration through downregulation of NDRG1.
Effect of Yoga Therapy on Health Outcomes in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Verma Anita , Upadhyay Vikas , Saxena Vartika
Published: August 2021

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of yoga therapy (YT) on health outcomes of women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Interventional studies, with postmenarchal and premenopausal females with PCOS who received YT, with any health outcome reported, were included. Scopus, Cochrane, PubMed, Embase, and Medline databases were electronically searched. Systematic review included 11 experimental studies, representing 515 participants with PCOS, out of which 2 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included for meta-analysis. Random effects model was applied using Review Manager Software version 5.4.1 and strength of evidence was assessed using GRADEpro Guideline Development Tool, 2020. Meta-analysis showed that YT may significantly decrease menstrual irregularity (MD −.41, 95% CI −.74 to −.08), clinical hyperandrogenism (MD −.70, 95% CI −1.15 to −.26), fasting blood glucose (MD −.22 mmol/L, 95% CI −.44 to −.01), fasting insulin (MD −28.21 pmol/L, 95% CI −43.79 to −12.63), and homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance value (MD −.86, 95% CI −1.29 to −.43). Strength of evidence was “low.” In conclusion, YT may have beneficial effects on health outcomes in women suffering from PCOS. However, low strength of evidence suggests need of conducting well-designed RCTs to assess the efficacy of YT for PCOS.