bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age-Related Differences in Reward-Based Modulation of Sequential Reaching Performance
Authors: Aves Poppy , Moreau Laura , Alghamdi Ahmad , Sporn Sebastian , Galea Joseph M
Published: September 2021

Reward can increase the speed and accuracy of movements in both simple and sequential reaching tasks. Two mechanisms are thought to be responsible for this: an increase in maximum velocity, due to increased muscle stiffness, resulting in faster, but energetically inefficient, individual movements; or coarticulation – the blending of sub-movements into single, smoother, more energetically efficient movements. Older adults have shown reduced sensitivity to reward in decision paradigms, but there is little research relating reward and motor performance in older adults. Using a novel online sequential reaching task, we compared the effects of reward on motor performance between young (18-23 years) and older (65-79 years) participants. We found that movement time decreased across training in all groups, and reward invigorated this decrease in both age groups. This suggests that reward is a viable facilitator of motor performance to compensate for age-related motor decline and has the potential for use in the design of rehabilitation programmes for age-related motor deficits or disease.
The role of complex IV activity in the axonal response of mitochondria to demyelination in experimental disease models of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Licht-Mayer Simon , Campbell Graham R. , Mehta Arpan R. , McGill Katie , Symonds Alex , Al-Azki Sarah , Pryce Gareth , Zandee Stephanie , Zhao Chao , Kipp Markus , Smith Kenneth J , Baker David , Altmann Daniel , Anderton Stephen M. , Kap Yolanda S. , Laman Jon D. , ‘t Hart Bert A. , Rodriguez Moses , Franklin Robin J.M. , Chandran Siddharthan , Lassmann Hans , Trapp Bruce D. , Mahad Don J.
Published: September 2021

Axon loss is a cardinal neuropathological feature of multiple sclerosis (MS). Axonal injury in MS and experimental disease models is most frequently detected in acutely demyelinating regions. Furthermore, acute axonal injury consistently correlates with the extent of inflammatory demyelination. Following lysolecithin-induced demyelination, we recently reported a compensatory response in neurons, where mitochondria move from the cell body to the acutely demyelinated axon and increase the mitochondrial content. We termed this energetics phenomenon, that is also evident in MS, the axonal response of mitochondria to demyelination (ARMD). In the present study, we assessed axonal mitochondrial content as well as axonal mitochondrial respiratory chain complex IV activity (COX) of axons and related these to axonal injury in nine different experimental disease models. We consistently found ARMD in all experimental disease models. However, the increase in mitochondrial content within demyelinated axons was not always accompanied by a proportionate increase in COX activity, particularly in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Axonal COX activity inversely correlated with the extent of axonal injury in experimental disease models. Our findings indicate that ARMD is a consistent and prominent finding and emphasises the need to preserve axonal mitochondrial COX activity in inflammatory demyelination, paving the way for the development of novel neuroprotective therapies.
A hybrid meta-heuristic scheduler algorithm for optimization of workflow scheduling in cloud heterogeneous computing environment
Authors: Noorian Talouki Reza , Hosseini Shirvani Mirsaeid , Motameni Homayun
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Improvement of workflow scheduling in distributed engineering systems

Design/methodology/approach

The authors proposed a hybrid meta heuristic optimization algorithm.

Findings

The authors have made improvement in hybrid approach by exploiting of genetic algorithm and simulated annealing plus points.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper presents a novel theorem and novel hybrid approach.
Relational cohesion between users and smart voice assistants
Authors: Hernández-Ortega Blanca , Aldas-Manzano Joaquin , Ferreira Ivani
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine users’ affective relationships with smart voice assistants (SVAs) and aims to analyze how these relationships explain user engagement behaviors toward the brands of SVAs. Drawing on relational cohesion theory, it proposes that cohesion between users and SVAs influences brand engagement behaviors, that is, continuing purchasing other products of the brand, providing knowledge to the brand and referring the brand.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from a survey of 717 US regular SVA users confirm the validity of the measurement scales and provide the input for the covariance-based structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results demonstrate that frequent user-SVA interactions evoke positive emotions, which encourage cohesive relationships. Pleasured-satisfaction and interest emerge as strong emotions. Moreover, relational cohesion between users and SVAs promotes engagement with the brand of the assistant.

Originality/value

This paper applies an interpersonal approach in a context that, to date, has been examined from a predominantly technological perspective. It shows that users develop positive emotions toward smart technologies through their interactions, and establishes the importance of building affective relationships. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to analyze cohesion between users and smart technologies and to examine the effect of this cohesion on user engagement with the brand.
Personnel needs assessment in times of crisis: a focus on management of disasters
Authors: Meduri Yamini
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explain the importance of human resources and attempts to identify the competencies required by the personnel involved in disaster management operations.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a qualitative methodology to explore the competencies required by the relief workers using a content analysis approach to analyze the disaster literature and the job advertisements. The data for the content analysis was developed with the help of 23 independent coders, and exploratory inferences were drawn.

Findings

A detailed review of the literature highlighted the importance of competent personnel in disaster relief organizations. The analysis listed 34 mutually exclusive competencies and their relative importance, which were further divided into four competency clusters. The study also creates a competency dictionary that defines the competencies with the expected behaviors.

Practical implications

Deploying the right resources in the acute time frame during a disaster event can make a difference, and with lives at stake, such deployment acquires prime importance. In addition to contributing to humanitarian logistics literature, the competency model developed will also help forecast the future requirements and help the organization choose “the right person for the right job.”

Originality/value

The inferences drawn in the study are based on disaster management areas, unlike earlier research which also considered business logistics research.
Community crime prevention and crime watch groups as online private policing
Authors: Walby Kevin , Joshua Courtney
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the online communications, symbolism and imagery of 35 community crime prevention and crime watch groups across Canada to explore how these groups organize themselves and assess the resulting community actions.

Design/methodology/approach

Contributing to digital criminology, gathering data from open access platforms such as Facebook and online platforms such as websites, the authors analyse communications from community crime prevention and crime watch groups in 12 Canadian cities. The authors used qualitative content analysis to explore the types of posts to assess trends and patterns in types of ideas communicated and symbolized.

Findings

Whilst such groups bring the community together to help promote community safety, the groups may also encourage stereotyping, shaming and even vigilantism through misrepresenting the amount of crime occurring in the community and focusing on fear. The authors demonstrate how crime prevention becomes sidelined amongst most of the groups, and how intense crime reporting and the focus on fear derail actual community development.

Research limitations/implications

The current study is limited to two years of posts from each group under examination. Interviews with members of online community crime prevention and crime watch groups would provide insights into the lived experience of regular users and their reasons for interacting with the group.

Practical implications

Given some of the vigilante-style the actions of such groups, the authors would suggest these groups pose a governance problem for local governments.

Originality/value

Community crime prevention and crime watch groups are not a new phenomenon, but their activities are moving online in ways that deserve criminological research. The authors contribute to the field of digital criminology by researching how online communications shape community crime prevention organizations and how ideas about regulation of crime and social control circulate online. The authors also explain how this community crime prevention trend may contribute to issues of vigilantism and increased transgression.
Review article: Topical antibiotic treatments for acute otitis externa: Emergency care guidelines from an ear, nose and throat perspective
Authors: Khatri Hershil , Huang Johnson , Guazzo Emily , Bond Craig
Published: September 2021

Acute otitis externa (AOE), also known as ‘swimmer's ear’, is a common acute problem. It is one of the most common ED presentations. Atypical organisms, recalcitrant disease and antibiotic options contribute to making AOE a clinical challenge. There are a number of red flags associated with AOE which require consideration when treating patients with AOE. We discuss an evidence‐based approach to management of AOE in the emergency setting, with indications for specialist referral.
The long‐term effects of lower versus higher oxygenation levels in adult ICU patients – protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Crescioli Elena , Uldal Krejberg Kirsten , Lass Klitgaard Thomas , Mølgaard Nielsen Frederik , Barbateskovic Marija , Skrubbeltrang Conni , Hylander Møller Morten , Lilleholt Schjørring Olav , Steen Rasmussen Bodil
Published: September 2021

Background

Many organs can remain impaired after discharge from the intensive care unit (ICU) leading to temporal or permanent dysfunctions. Long‐term impairments may be affected by supplemental oxygen, a common treatment in ICU, having both potential beneficial and harmful long‐lasting effects. This systematic review aims to assess the long‐term outcomes of lower versus higher oxygen supplementation and/or oxygenation levels in adults admitted to ICU.

Methods

We will include trials differentiating between a lower and a higher oxygen supplementation or a lower and a higher oxygenation strategy in adults admitted to the ICU. We will search major electronic databases and trial registers for randomised clinical trials. Two authors will independently screen and select references for inclusion using Covidence and predefined data will be extracted. The methodological quality and risk of bias of included trials will be evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2. Meta‐analysis will be performed if two or more trials with comparable outcome measures will be included. Otherwise, a narrative description of the trials’ results will be presented instead. To assess the certainty of evidence, we will create a ‘Summary of findings’ table containing all prespecified outcomes using the GRADE system. The protocol is submitted on the PROSPERO database (ID 223630).

Conclusion

No systematic reviews on the impact of oxygen treatment in the ICU on long‐term outcomes, other than mortality and quality of life, have been reported yet. This systematic review will provide an overview of the current evidence and will help future research in the field.
Unusual presentation of crusted scabies with osteolysis in immunocompetent
Authors: Mahajan Sunanda Arun , Chhonkar Aditi , Dave Jayati Shailesh , Muhammed Naziya
Published: September 2021

Background

Crusted scabies results from a failure of the host immune response to control the proliferation of the scabies mite in the skin, with resulting hyperinfestation and a concomitant inflammatory and hyper‐keratotic reaction. However, it has also been recognised in people with no evident immunological deficit.

Case history

We present a case report of apparently immunocompetent 16‐year‐old female presenting with multiple hyperkeratotic vegetating plaques over limbs, excoriated papules over trunk with minimal itching since 2 years without any positive family history. The microscopic examination of the skin scales with potassium hydroxide demonstrated numerous scabies mites and eggs. Histopathology showed hyperkeratosis with multiple mites in stratum corneum. Numerous mites were seen on biopsy of lesion. X‐ray showed osteolysis of distal phalanges secondary to chronic pressure. Repeated topical treatments with permethrin and oral ivermectin led to the considerable resolution of her lesions.

Conclusion

We present a rare case of crusted scabies with osteolysis in an immunocompetent female.
Regulatory roles of three miRNAs on allergen mRNA expression in Tyrophagus putrescentiae
Authors: Zhou Ying , Li Qingqing , Pan Ruilin , Wang Qiong , Zhu Xuming , Yuan Cunyin , Cai Fangfang , Gao Ya‐dong , Cui Yubao
Published: September 2021

Background

Tyrophagus putresecentiae is an important mite species in rural and urban environments, causing sensitization and allergic disease. While evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) may regulate the expression of allergen‐encoding genes, no study has directly investigated this possibility. Here, this gap was addressed by profiling miRNAs and elucidating their target allergen messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in this mite species.

Methods

Small RNA and transcriptome libraries were constructed for eggs, larvae, nymphs, and adults. After deep miRNA and whole‐transcriptome sequencing were performed, the miRNA and allergen‐encoding mRNA regulatory networks were explored.

Results

A total of 540 miRNAs were identified, including 155 with expression levels differing significantly across the four mite developmental stages (p < .01), 59 of which were novel. The mRNA expression for allergens was higher for Tyr p 1 in adults than in other developmental stages; Tyr p 2–5, 7, 10, 13, 33, and 34 in immature stages; and Tyr p 28, 35, and 36 in eggs and adults. A combined miRNA and transcriptome bioinformatics analysis showed that allergen Tyr p 3 was regulated by miRNA PC‐5p‐5698441_1, Tyr p 4 was regulated by PC‐5p‐7050653_1, and Tyr p 34 was regulated by PC‐5p‐5534223_1 and PC‐5p‐5698441_1. These three allergen mRNA and three miRNAs were identified using qRT‐PCR, and their regulatory roles were confirmed by double‐fluorescent reporter gene system and site‐directed mutagenesis technology.

Conclusions

For the first time, allergen mRNA expression and miRNAs were profiled throughout the life cycle for an allergen‐producing mite, and the results showed that miRNAs bind to target allergen mRNAs to regulate their expression.
Laparoscopic surgery for median arcuate ligament syndrome using real‐time stereotactic navigation
Authors: Aisu Yuki , Okada Tomoaki , Sumii Atsuhiko , Ganeko Riki , Okamura Ryosuke , Nishigori Tatsuto , Itatani Yoshiro , Hisamori Shigeo , Tsunoda Shigeru , Hida Koya , Kawada Kenji , Obama Kazutaka , Sakai Yoshiharu
Published: September 2021

Introduction

In median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS), a hyperplastic MAL causes compression and stenosis of the celiac artery (CA). The treatment involves releasing the external pressure on this artery by dissecting the ligament. However, it is difficult to identify the artery because of its deep anatomical location. Stereotactic navigation provides real‐time information regarding the surgical instrument's location on computed tomography (CT) images. We utilized this system to overcome the difficulty of anatomical identification.

Materials and Surgical Technique

We present a case of aneurysm rupture caused by MALS, which was treated with laparoscopic MAL dissection with real‐time stereotactic navigation. Surgery was performed in a hybrid operating room with three‐dimensional C‐arm CT (Artis Zeego, Siemens) and an installed Curve navigation system (BrainLab). Preoperative CT images were aligned with intraoperative C‐arm CT‐like images and the surgical instrument position was projected onto preoperative CT images. After the left gastric artery isolation, the fibrous tissue surrounding the left gastric artery was dissected toward the CA while confirming the location of the CA and aortic wall using the navigation system. The CA's diameter was dilated from 1.8 to 2.6 mm with intraoperative angiography.

Discussion

This is the first report of laparoscopic MAL dissection using real‐time stereotactic navigation. Although navigation setting was time‐intensive, this system helped us understand the anatomical structures and in safely and precisely dissecting the MAL.
Factors associated with small lungworm infections in heavily infected sheep in southeast South Australia
Authors: Hanks JE , Larsen JWA , Campbell AJD
Published: September 2021

This field observational study describes the seasonal pattern of small lungworm infections under different grazing managements from August 2018 to March 2019. Live weight, lungworm and gastrointestinal nematode infection, as well as pasture type grazed and snail density, were measured at 5 farm visits. Across all visits and mobs, about one quarter to one half of sheep were positive for small lungworm, although prevalence was as low as 0% and as high as 78%. The density of the intermediate host molluscs was greater than 1600 snails/m2 in irrigated perennial lucerne pasture when it was grazed (‘Pasture A’), but was low (<300) in non‐irrigated perennial pasture (‘Pasture B’) and non‐irrigated forage crop (‘Pasture C’). Overall, non‐infected lambs had a similar live weight compared with the small lungworm infected lambs (mean difference −0.6 kg; 95% CI −1.6 to 0.2; P = 0.1). The odds ratio of small lungworm infection associated with a twofold increase in worm egg count was 1.7 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.7; P = 0.02). Rather than a distinct seasonal pattern of infection, we found that small lungworm can occur throughout the year, with prevalence most influenced by pasture type (irrigated vs dryland), grazing management and the population density of the intermediate hosts. Importantly, this study suggested that small lungworm infection did not reduce lamb live weights. It reinforced that to improve sheep productivity, well‐established determinants of production, such as correct grazing management to optimise pasture quality and strategies to reduce infections with gastrointestinal nematodes, should be the priority of farm managers.
Global prevalence of depression and elevated depressive symptoms among adolescents: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Ng Esperanza Debby , Wong Celine H. J.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Adolescence is a formative and turbulent phase where physiological, psychosocial, and cognitive changes leave adolescents vulnerable to psychological disorders. Given the lack of reviews that consolidate and compare worldwide prevalence of depression among adolescents, this review aims to examine the global prevalence of major depressive disorders, dysthymia, and elevated depressive symptoms among adolescents.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted. Six databases were searched for studies published from 2001 to December 2020. Seventy‐two studies were included. Subgroup analysis were performed for year of publication, geographical region, gender, and assessment tools used.

Results

The global point prevalence rate of elevated self‐reported depressive symptoms from 2001 to 2020 was 34% (95% CI: 0.30–0.38). Point prevalence for major depressive disorder (MDD) and dysthymia was 8% (95% CI: 0.02–0.13) and 4% (95% CI: 0.01–0.07), respectively. The pooled one‐year prevalence and lifetime prevalence for MDD were 8% (95% CI: 0.05–0.12) and 19% (95% CI: 0.12–0.26). Point prevalence of elevated depressive symptoms among adolescents increased from 24% (95% CI: 0.19–0.28) between 2001 and 2010 to 37% (95% CI: 0.32–0.42) between 2011 and 2020. The Middle East, Africa, and Asia have the highest prevalence of elevated depressive symptoms, and female adolescents were reported to have a higher prevalence of elevated depressive symptoms than male adolescents.

Conclusion

Besides targeting those with existing clinical depression, research and policies should also focus on educational and supportive mitigation efforts to curb depressive symptoms among adolescents before escalation. The findings encourage future research to develop more gender‐specific and culturally relevant intervention programmes.

Practitioner points

34% of adolescents globally, aged 10‐19 years, are at risk of developing clinical depression, which exceeds the reported estimates of individuals aged 18 to 25 years. Practitioners are highly encouraged to prioritize depression screening and intervention implementation for individuals in this age group.

Female adolescents and adolescents from Middle East, Africa, and Asia have the highest risk of developing depression. This urges practitioners and researchers to develop more gender‐specific and culturally relevant intervention programmes.
TEA domain transcription factor 4 modulates repression of fetal haemoglobin by direct binding to the γ‐globin gene promoters
Authors: Lin Jiaqiong , Ye Yuhua , Shang Xuan , Zhang Yanxia , Wei Xiaofeng , Xu Xiangmin
Published: September 2021

Re‐activation of fetal haemoglobin (HbF) has been proved to be an effective strategy for the treatment of β‐haemoglobinopathies. In this study, we identified TEA domain transcription factor 4 (TEAD4) as a new potential regulator of HbF by integrating public data sets with quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis in β‐thalassaemia patients. Significant negative correlation was observed between the expression of TEAD4 and HbF levels in β‐thalassaemia patients. Functional validations of TEAD4 inhibition in both β‐thalassaemia CD34+ cells and HUDEP‐2 cells indicated that depletion of TEAD4 led to a significant increase of HbF. Finally, we identified a binding motif of TEAD4 on γ‐globin gene promoters; its disruption consistently led to de‐repression of HbF. Taken together, these results demonstrate that TEAD4 could act as a transcriptional inhibitor of the γ‐globin gene through direct binding on its promoter. Our findings demonstrate a novel role of TEAD4 on the regulation of HbF, which may benefit patients with β‐haemoglobinopathies.
Bi‐allelic mutations in MCIDAS and CCNO cause human infertility associated with abnormal gamete transport
Authors: Ma Cong , Wu Huan , Zhu Damin , Wang Ying , Shen Qunshan , Cheng Huiru , Zhang Junqiang , Geng Hao , Liu Yiyuan , He Xiaojin , Tao Fangbiao , Cao Yunxia , Xu Xiaofeng
Published: September 2021

Reduced generation of multiple motile cilia (RGMC) and the consequent primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) cause infertility due to a substantial reduction in the number of multiciliated cells (MCCs) in the efferent ducts (EDs)/oviducts. MCIDAS acts upstream of CCNO to regulate the biogenesis of basal bodies (BBs); therefore, both genes play a vital role in the multiciliogenesis of the reproductive tract epithelium. In this study, whole‐exome sequencing was performed to identify the causative genes in 10 unrelated infertile patients with PCD: seven males and three females. Notably, homozygous frameshift mutations in MCIDAS (c.186dupT, p.Pro63Serfs*22) and CCNO (c.262_263insGGCCC, p.Gln88Argfs*8) were identified in one male and one female participant from two unrelated consanguineous families. Haematoxylin–eosin staining/scanning electron microscopy revealed abnormal MCCs in the mutated EDs/oviducts. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy revealed significantly reduced BBs. Immunofluorescence staining showed the absence of MCIDAS and CCNO signals in the affected tissues and confirmed that MCIDAS acts upstream of CCNO in the context of multiciliogenesis in the reproductive tract epithelium. In vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was successful, with a positive pregnancy outcome in both MCIDAS‐ and CCNO‐mutated patients. Our results support the use of IVF/ICSI interventions to treat infertility due to RGMC in couples.
Suspension laryngoscopy experiences in a tertiary airway service: A prospective study of 150 procedures
Authors: Maughan Elizabeth F. , Rotman Anthony , Rouhani Maral J. , Thong Gerard , Poncia James , Myatt John , Al Yaghchi Chadwan , Sandhu Gurpreet
Published: September 2021

Objectives

In most cases, suspension laryngoscopy (SL) is efficient, bloodless and with minimal post‐procedure discomfort. We aimed to identify predictive patient factors for acceptable surgical views at SL as well as quantify our tertiary airway unit's complication rates.

Design

Prospective cohort study of 150 consecutive microlaryngoscopy procedures involving SL over an 8‐month period between November 2019 and July 2020. Patients were assessed preoperatively for pre‐existing oral, temporomandibular, dental, pharyngeal or laryngeal pathology, interincisor distance and qualitative gross limitations to neck extension and forward head posture. Intraoperatively, the laryngoscopic view was graded by anaesthetic and surgical teams, and complications were recorded on patient interview in recovery.

Setting

Tertiary adult airway service for predominantly benign pathology.

Results

Adequate surgical views were obtained in 149/150 procedures. BMI had a weak positive correlation with a more difficult view (r = .22, p = .008) but did not correlate with a statistically significant increase in any complication. There was a weak negative correlation between age and interincisor gap (r = −.20, p = .014), and wider mouth opening correlated very weakly with a lower incidence of sore throat (r = −.19, p = .023). Gross macroglossia showed a significant moderate positive correlation with tongue symptoms (r = .45, p = 1.611 × 10−8).

Conclusion

In the context of an experienced airway unit with a high caseload of predominantly benign pathology, SL is very effective and safe with low associated morbidity and no mortality. The most common complication of SL is temporary sore throat and there remain recognised risks of temporary tongue and dental symptoms.
Corneal nerve loss is related to the severity of painful diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Kalteniece Alise , Ferdousi Maryam , Azmi Shazli , Khan Saif Ullah , Worthington Anne , Marshall Andrew , Faber Catharina G. , Lauria Giuseppe , Boulton Andrew J. M. , Soran Handrean , Malik Rayaz A.
Published: September 2021

Background and purpose

Previously it has been shown that patients with painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) have greater corneal nerve loss compared to patients with painless diabetic neuropathy. This study investigated if the severity of corneal nerve loss was related to the severity of PDN.

Methods

Participants with diabetic neuropathy (n = 118) and healthy controls (n = 38) underwent clinical and neurological evaluation, quantitative sensory testing, nerve conduction testing and corneal confocal microscopy and were categorized into those with no (n = 43), mild (n = 34) and moderate‐to‐severe (n = 41) neuropathic pain.

Results

Corneal nerve fibre density (p = 0.003), corneal nerve fibre length (p < 0.0001) and cold perception threshold (p < 0.0001) were lower and warm perception threshold was higher (p = 0.002) in patients with more severe pain, but there was no significant difference in the neuropathy disability score (p = 0.5), vibration perception threshold (p = 0.5), sural nerve conduction velocity (p = 0.3) and amplitude (p = 0.7), corneal nerve branch density (p = 0.06) and deep breathing heart rate variability (p = 0.08) between patients with differing severity of PDN. The visual analogue scale correlated significantly with corneal nerve fibre density (r = −0.3, p = 0.0002), corneal nerve branch density (r = −0.3, p = 0.001) and corneal nerve fibre length (r = −0.4, p < 0.0001). Receiver operating curve analysis showed that corneal nerve fibre density had an area under the curve of 0.78 with a sensitivity of 0.73 and specificity of 0.72 for the diagnosis of PDN.

Conclusions

Corneal confocal microscopy reveals increasing corneal nerve fibre loss with increasing severity of neuropathic pain and a good diagnostic outcome for identifying patients with PDN.
First report of Aulacaspis rosae (Bouché, 1833) (Diaspididae) in Tunisia
Authors: Ben Halima Kamel Monia , Zouari Sana , Ben Cheick Zohra , Adouani Rihem , Germain Jean François
Published: September 2021

In 2017 and 2018, from June to October, unusual damage was observed on Japanese sago palm (Cycas revoluta) (Cycadaceae), in several towns in Tunisia: Ariana (Ariana governorate), Tunis (Tunis governorate), and Akouda and Chott Mariem (Sousse Governorate). Leaf samples were collected and brought to the laboratory for observation. Morphological identification confirmed the presence of Aulacaspis rosae (Diaspididae). This is the first record of A. rosae in Tunisia.
Neurovascular variations in the proximal plantar metatarsal region of the horse
Authors: Milner Peter I. , Dimmock Oliver , Barnes Kate
Published: September 2021

Background

Neurovascular variation may be relevant when performing surgical techniques to the proximal plantar metatarsal region.

Objectives

To document variations in the neurovascular anatomy of the proximal plantar metatarsal region and study the relationship of the neurovascular components to each other and other structures located in this area.

Study design

Descriptive anatomical study.

Methods

Paired cadaver hind limbs from 15 horses were dissected from the distal tibia to the metatarsophalangeal joint. Deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve (DBLPN) length, location of its origin from the lateral plantar nerve (LPN), individual DBLPN ramifications into the suspensory ligament (SL) and relationship of the DBLPN to the plantar arch and accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon (ALDDFT) were recorded.

Results

Mean DBLPN length was 5.8 ± 1.7 cm with the nerve arising 3.7 ± 1.5 cm proximal to the head of the fourth metatarsal bone (MTIV). There was a median of three individual DBLPN ramifications (range 2‐6) entering the SL. There were no significant left/right differences. In 57% (CI 39%‐74%; n = 17) limbs, the deep plantar arch was superficial to the DBLPN, whereas in 33% (CI 16%‐50%; n = 10) limbs, the DBLPN passed between the venous and arterial components of the arch. In 10% (CI 1%‐20%; n = 3) limbs, the deep plantar arch was deep to the DBLPN. In 67% (CI 50%‐84%; n = 20) limbs, the DBLPN was superficial to the ALDDFT, whereas in 33% (CI 16%‐50%; n = 10) limbs, the nerve ran deep to the ALDDFT. An additional branch from the LPN was noted in one limb.

Main limitations

Limbs were used from horses with unknown clinical history.

Conclusions

Anatomical variation, in particular the relationship of the DBLPN and deep metatarsal fascia to the deep plantar arch and the ALDDFT is an important consideration when undertaking surgical approaches to the proximal plantar metatarsal region.
Evolutionary state‐based novel multi‐objective periodic bacterial foraging optimization algorithm for data clustering
Authors: Guo Chen , Tang Heng , Niu Ben
Published: September 2021

Clustering divides objects into groups based on similarity. However, traditional clustering approaches are plagued by their difficulty in dealing with data with complex structure and high dimensionality, as well as their inability in solving multi‐objective data clustering problems. To address these issues, an evolutionary state‐based novel multi‐objective periodic bacterial foraging optimization algorithm (ES‐NMPBFO) is proposed in this article. The algorithm is designed to alleviate the high‐computing complexity of the standard bacterial foraging optimization (BFO) algorithm by introducing periodic BFO. Moreover, two learning strategies, global best individual (gbest) and personal historical best individual (pbest), are used in the chemotaxis operation to enhance the convergence speed and guide the bacteria to the optimum position. Two elimination‐dispersal operations are also proposed to prevent falling into local optima and improve the diversity of solutions. The proposed algorithm is compared with five other algorithms on six validity indexes in two data clustering cases comprising nine general benchmark datasets and four credit risk assessment datasets. The experimental results suggest that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms the competing approaches. To further examine the effectiveness of the proposed strategies, two variants of ES‐NMPBFO were designed, and all three forms of ES‐NMPBFO were tested. The experimental results show that all of the proposed strategies are conducive to the improvement of solution quality, diversity and convergence.
Multi‐start iterated local search metaheuristic for the multi‐mode resource‐constrained project scheduling problem
Authors: Ramos Alfredo S. , Olivares‐Benitez Elias , Miranda‐Gonzalez Pablo A.
Published: September 2021

In this paper a multi‐start iterated local search (MS‐ILS) algorithm is presented as a new and effective approach to solve the multi‐mode resource‐constrained project scheduling problem (MRCPSP). The MRCPSP is a well‐known project scheduling NP‐Hard optimization problem, in which there is a trade‐off between the duration of each project activity and the amount of resources they require to be completed. The proposed algorithm generates an initial solution, performs a local search to obtain a local optimum, subsequently, for a certain number of iterations, makes a perturbation to that local optimum and performs a new local search on the perturbed solution. This whole process then restarts with a different initial solution for a certain number of restarts. The algorithm was tested on benchmark instances of projects with 30, 50 and 100 activities from well‐known libraries. The obtained results were compared to recent benchmark results from the literature. The proposed algorithm outperforms other solution methods found in related literature for the largest tested instances (100 activities), while for smaller instances it shows to be quite competitive, in terms of the average deviation against known lower bounds.
Can small‐scale fisheries survive market‐based management? Nordic evidence
Authors: Nielsen Max , Andersen Peder , Asche Frank , Ellefsen Hans , Hammarlund Cecilia , Hoff Ayoe , Kristofersson Dadi Mar , Nielsen Rasmus , Rógvi Heri á , Roll Kristin , Sævaldsson Hordur , Virtanen Jarno , Waldo Staffan
Published: September 2021

Market‐based fisheries management systems give incentives to reduce the fleet size and employment, which increases earnings and contributes to resolve the tragedy of the commons. However, the often‐stated expectation that economies of scale cause the disappearance of small‐scale fishery is not observed in many cases. In this study, we investigate the effects on fleet structure in the period after introducing individual fishing quotas or individual fishing days with various degrees of transferability in selected fisheries in the seven Nordic countries. Despite observing economies of scale in most cases, it is found that the market‐based fisheries management often does not reduce the small‐scale fleet more than the fleet of large vessels. This is explained partly by small vessels targeting demersal species and large vessels pelagic species, and partly by the larger need of larger than small vessels to continuously utilize their capital stocks through fast adaptation to ensure return. A more important explanation is the regulation design, with limitations in sale of fishing rights and lease between vessel groups and regions and in the share of the total quota holdings of fishing rights by individuals and vessels. This is important for countries considering the introduction of market‐based fisheries management, since the Nordic experiences show that with proper regulation design, economic gains can be achieved with small‐scale fishing surviving even under economies of scale.
Role of perceived social support in the relationship between parent temperament and distress tolerance
Authors: Morford Alexandra E. , Jordan Neil , Risser Heather J.
Published: September 2021

Objective

To evaluate whether social support mediates the relationships between parent temperament and distress tolerance (DT) in mothers and fathers.

Background

Distress tolerance is central to many of the factors identified as high‐risk for parents perpetrating child maltreatment. To create effective parenting programs aimed at reducing child maltreatment, it is essential to understand the risk and protective factors associated with parental DT. Additionally, examining these factors in both mothers and fathers is important for determining whether mechanisms of risk and protective factors function similarly.

Method

Using existing cross‐sectional data, self‐report assessments from 584 parents (67% female, Mage = 32.35 years) of children between the ages of 6 months and 10 years were analyzed using mediation analyses.

Results

Perceived social support partially mediated the relationship between negative affect and distress tolerance, in the overall sample and in mothers only, but not for fathers only. Perceived social support was not a mediator of the relationship between effortful control and distress tolerance in any of the samples.

Conclusion

Results suggest that negative affect and perception of social support play important roles in parents’ DT capabilities. Furthermore, the inconsistency across genders, suggests that risk and protective factors of DT may differ for mothers and fathers.

Implications

Investigating risk factors of low parental DT is important for advancing knowledge about parents who may ultimately engage in child maltreatment to inform the design of prevention and early intervention parenting programs.
Etiology and device therapy in complete atrioventricular block in pediatric and young adult population: Contemporary review and new perspectives
Authors: Cioffi Giacomo M. , Gasperetti Alessio , Tersalvi Gregorio , Schiavone Marco , Compagnucci Paolo , Sozzi Fabiola B. , Casella Michela , Guerra Federico , Dello Russo Antonio , Forleo Giovanni Battista
Published: September 2021

Complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) is a total dissociation between the atrial and ventricular activity, in the absence of atrioventricular conduction. Several diseases may result in CAVB in the pediatric and young‐adult population. Permanent right ventricular (RV) pacing is required in permanent CAVB, when the cause is neither transient nor reversible. Continuous RV apical pacing has been associated with unfavorable outcomes in several studies due to the associated ventricular dyssynchrony. This study aims to summarize the current literature regarding CAVB in the pediatric and young adult population and to explore future treatment perspectives.
Family: Pacific perspectives
Authors: Forrest Lee‐Ann , du Preez Jan , Brownlow Charlotte
Published: September 2021

Models that conceptualize family are employed by psychologists, governments, legislators, and policymakers to inform professional practice and formulate public policy. However, extant models are notably Western‐centric in both origin and context. Given the cultural diversity of today's globalized world, it is timely to question whether such models can adequately represent populations within their ambit. This paper takes Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems model as one representative way of thinking about family and employs it as the point of contrast with Pacific family arrangements. Particular consideration is given to Indigenous Fijian (iTaukei), Tongan, and Māori perspectives. The model was found to be inadequate for representing Pacific family arrangements. This finding has important implications as it creates a space for new insights and possibilities. To this end, key family‐related metaphors common among Pacific peoples have been incorporated to conceptualize one potential alternative.
Tangeretin inhibits fungal ferroptosis to suppress rice blast
Authors: Liang Meiling , Ye Huijuan , Shen Qing , Jiang Xianya , Cui Guobing , Gu Wenxiang , Zhang Lian‐Hui , Naqvi Naweed I. , Deng Yi Zhen
Published: September 2021

Flavonoids are polyphenolic secondary metabolites that function as signaling molecules, allopathic compounds, phytoalexins, detoxifying agents and antimicrobial defensive compounds in plants. Blast caused by the fungusMagnaporthe oryzaeis a serious disease affecting rice cultivation. In this study, we revealed that a natural flavonoid, tangeretin, substantially delays the formation ofM. oryzaeappressoria and blocks the development of blast lesions on rice plants. Our data suggest that tangeretin has antioxidant activity that interferes with conidial cell death/ferroptosis, which is critical forM. oryzaepathogenicity. Tangeretin showed a ferroptosis inhibition efficacy comparable to the well‐established liproxstatin‐1. Furthermore, overexpression of the NADPH oxidasesNOX1orNOX2significantly decreased sensitivity toward tangeretin treatment, suggesting Nox‐mediated lipid peroxidation as a possible target for tangeretin in regulating redox signaling and ferroptosis inM. oryzae. Our nursery and field tests showed that application of tangeretin can effectively mitigate overall disease symptoms and prevent leaf blast. Our study reveals the plant‐derived fungal ferroptosis inhibitor tangeretin as a potential and novel antifungal agrochemical for the sustainable prevention of the devastating blast disease in important cereal crops.
Higher spatial resolution improves the interpretation of the extent of ventricular trabeculation
Authors: Riekerk Hanne C. E. , Coolen Bram F. , J. Strijkers Gustav , van der Wal Allard C. , Petersen Steffen E. , Sheppard Mary N. , Oostra Roelof‐Jan , Christoffels Vincent M. , Jensen Bjarke
Published: September 2021

The ventricular walls of the human heart comprise an outer compact layer and an inner trabecular layer. In the context of an increased pre‐test probability, diagnosis left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy is given when the left ventricle is excessively trabeculated in volume (trabecular vol >25% of total LV wall volume) or thickness (trabecular/compact (T/C) >2.3). Here, we investigated whether higher spatial resolution affects the detection of trabeculation and thus the assessment of normal and excessively trabeculated wall morphology. First, we screened left ventricles in 1112 post‐natal autopsy hearts. We identified five excessively trabeculated hearts and this low prevalence of excessive trabeculation is in agreement with pathology reports but contrasts the prevalence of approximately 10% of the population found by in vivo non‐invasive imaging. Using macroscopy, histology and low‐ and high‐resolution MRI, the five excessively trabeculated hearts were compared with six normal hearts and seven abnormally trabeculated and excessive trabeculation‐negative hearts. Some abnormally trabeculated hearts could be considered excessively trabeculated macroscopically because of a trabecular outflow or an excessive number of trabeculations, but they were excessive trabeculation‐negative when assessed with MRI‐based measurements (T/C <2.3 and vol <25%). The number of detected trabeculations and T/C ratio were positively correlated with higher spatial resolution. Using measurements on high resolution MRI and with histological validation, we could not replicate the correlation between trabeculations of the left and right ventricle that has been previously reported. In conclusion, higher spatial resolution may affect the sensitivity of diagnostic measurements and in addition could allow for novel measurements such as counting of trabeculations.
Prophylactic ligation of uterine arteries at its origin in laparoscopic surgical staging for endometrial cancer
Authors: Yavuzcan Ali , Bakay Kadir
Published: September 2021

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the surgical outcomes between patients who were staged laparoscopically for early‐stage endometrioid‐type endometrial cancer (EC) between those who underwent prophylactic ligation of uterine arteries (UAs) prior to pelvic lymphadenectomy and the patients who were operated with standard procedure.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted in women diagnosed with early‐stage and low/intermediate‐risk endometrioid‐type EC. The control group included patients who underwent standard laparoscopic pelvic lymphadenectomy and the study group concerned patients who underwent prophylactic ligation of UA prior to pelvic lymphadenectomy. The prophylactic ligation of UA procedure was performed at a point just proximal to its origin.

Results

The mean lymph node count dissected in the study group was higher in terms of statistical significance (17.5 ± 2.2 vs. 19.8 ± 3.6, p = 0.003 and p ˂ 0.05). The rate of the patients who had a positive pelvic lymph node detected did not differ between groups (7.4% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.258 and p ˂ 0.05). The operation time (OT) of the patients in the study group did not differ between groups (p = 0.546 and p ˂ 0.05). Hemoglobin drop (−0.5 ± 0.7) and hematocrite drop (−0.8 ± 0.9) values in the study group were found to be lower in the study group (p = 0.000, p = 0.000, and p ˂ 0.05).

Conclusions

Performing prophylactic ligation of UA at its origin prevents unwanted bleeding and facilitates the laparoscopic pelvic lymphadenectomy procedure.
CXCR3 signalling partially contributes to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain in male rodents
Authors: Li Kai , Tan Yong‐Hui , Feng Shi‐Yang , Fu Kai‐Yuan
Published: September 2021

Background

Currently, there is a lack of effective therapy for chronic pain. Increasing evidence has shown that chemokines and their correlative receptors involved in the neuron–glial cell cross‐talk could contribute to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain. Our previous studies suggested that CXCR3 expression was elevated in the spinal dorsal horn after nerve injury.

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to explore the role of CXCR3 signalling in chronic pain modulation.

Methods

Reverse transcription quantitative PCR and Western blotting were used to measure the expression of CXCR3 and its ligands in the spinal cord following chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve. Cxcr3 ‐knockout mice were used to observe the effect of the receptor on pain‐related behaviour and microglial activation. Immunohistochemistry was used to investigate the expression of two activation markers for spinal microglia, Iba‐1 and phosphorylated‐p38 (p‐p38) in these mice.

Results

The expression of CXCR3 and its ligand CXCL11 was upregulated in the lumbar dorsal horn of the spinal cord in CCI models. In Cxcr3 ‐knockout mice, CCI‐induced tactile allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were observed to be alleviated during the early stage of pain processing. Meanwhile, the expression of the glial activation markers, namely, Iba‐1 and p‐p38, was decreased.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that CXCR3 could be a key modulator involved in pain modulation of the spinal cord; therefore, CXCR3‐related signalling pathways could be potential targets for the treatment of intractable pathological pain.