bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preventive but Not Therapeutic Topical Application of Local Anesthetics Can Inhibit Experimental Epidermolysis Bullosa Acquisita in Mice
Authors: Wen Lifang , Dong Xiaoru , Li Qing , Schramm Gabriele , Zhang Bing , Zillikens Detlef , Ludwig Ralf J. , Petersen Frank , Yu Xinhua
Published: October 2021

Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA) is an autoimmune blistering disorder characterized and caused by autoantibodies against type VII collagen (COL7). Although it has been noticed that EBA in both patients and mice is associated with an increased scratching, it is not clear whether and how the scratching contributes to disease manifestation. Hence, we here aimed to validate this clinical observation and also to investigate the potential contribution of increased scratching in EBA pathogenesis in mice. Longitudinal assessment of scratching behavior revealed an increased frequency of scratching as early as 12 hours after injection of anti-COL7 IgG into the skin of mice. Subsequently, scratching events became even more frequent in mice. In contrast, mice injected with a control antibody showed an unaltered scratching behavior throughout the observation period. Based on these observations, we hypothesized that mechanical irritation may promote the induction of inflammation in experimental EBA. To challenge this assumption, the local anesthetic dyclonine hydrochloride was topically applied before injection of anti-COL7 IgG. Dyclonine hydrochloride reduced the scratching events and impaired clinical disease manifestation. In therapeutic experimental settings, i.e. administration of the local anesthetic 24 hours after injection of anti-COL7 IgG, dyclonine hydrochloride only inhibited the scratching behavior, but had no significant effect on clinical disease development. In addition, eosinophils were detected in the skin before the injection of anti-COL7 IgG and significantly increased 48 hours after the antibody injection. Collectively, our results suggest that scratching behavior contributes to the initiation phase of disease manifestation in experimental EBA.
TREM1 Regulates Neuroinflammatory Injury by Modulate Proinflammatory Subtype Transition of Microglia and Formation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps via Interaction With SYK in Experimental Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Wu Xinyan , Zeng Hanhai , Xu Chaoran , Chen Huaijun , Fan Linfeng , Zhou Hang , Yu Qian , Fu Xiongjie , Peng Yucong , Yan Feng , Yu Xiaobo , Chen Gao
Published: October 2021

Neuroinflammation is a key process in the pathogenesis of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and contributes to poor outcome in patients. The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM1) in the SAH, as well as its potential mechanism. In our study, plasma levels of soluble TREM1 was increased significantly after SAH and correlated to SAH severity and serum C-reactiveprotein. TREM1 inhibitory peptide LP17 alleviated the neurological deficits, attenuated brain water content, and reduced neuronal damage after SAH. Meanwhile, TREM1 inhibitory peptide decreased neuroinflammation (evidenced by the decreased levels of markers including IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α) by attenuating proinflammatory subtype transition of microglia (evidenced by the decreased levels of markers including CD68, CD16, CD86) and decreasing the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (evidenced by the decreased levels of markers including CitH3, MPO, and NE). Further mechanistic study identified that TREM1 can activate downstream proinflammatory pathways through interacting with spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK). In conclusion, inhibition of TREM1 alleviates neuroinflammation by attenuating proinflammatory subtype transition of microglia and decreasing the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps through interacting with SYK after SAH. TREM1 may be a a promising therapeutic target for SAH.
Efficacy and Safety of New Orodispersible Tablet Formulations of Praziquantel (Racemate and L-Praziquantel) in Schistosoma mansoni-Infected Preschool-Age Children and Infants: A Randomized Dose-Finding Phase 2 Study
Authors: N’Goran Eliézer K. , Yalkinoglu Özkan , Kourany-Lefoll Elly , Tappert Aliona , Hayward Brooke , Yin Xiaoyan , Bezuidenhout Deon , Huber Eric , Aka N. A. David , Ouattara Mamadou , Bagchus Wilhelmina
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Two novel formulations of praziquantel (PZQ) and Levo-(L-)PZQ (arpraziquantel) have been developed for the treatment of schistosomiasis in preschool-age children and infants.

Methods

This open-label, dose-finding Phase 2 study assessed the efficacy and safety of PZQ formulations in children and infants infected with Schisostoma mansoni in Côte d’Ivoire. In Part 1, 420 children aged 2.1–6.9 years (weight 10.0–29.9 kg) were enrolled and randomized to one of 7 treatment arms (n=60 per arm): commercially available racemate (rac)-PZQ at 3x20 mg/kg or 40 mg/kg (treatment arms 1 and 2); rac-PZQ orodispersible tablet (ODT) at 40 mg/kg or 60 mg/kg (treatment arms 3 and 4); or L-PZQ ODT at 30 mg/kg, 45 mg/kg, or 60 mg/kg (treatment arms 5, 6, and 7). The optimal formulation and dose identified (L-PZQ ODT 50 mg/kg) was used in Part 2, which enrolled 24 infants aged 6–24 months (weight 7.5–14.8 kg). Infants were treated in an age-staggered approach: age 13–24 months (treatment arm 8, n=20) and age 6–12 months (treatment arm 9, n=4). The primary endpoint was clinical cure rate (CR) demonstrated by the Kato–Katz method 14–21 days post-treatment. Secondary endpoints included CR by point-of-care circulating cathodic antigen, egg reduction rate (ERR), and adverse events (AEs).

Results

In Part 1, CRs ≥70% were achieved in all treatment arms and were highest with L-PZQ ODT 60 mg/kg (89.7%), rac-PZQ 3x20 mg/kg (89.5%), and L-PZQ ODT 45 mg/kg (86.0%). In Part 2, CRs were >90%. All treatment arms had ERRs >95%. Treatment-related AEs were reported by 71 participants (16.0%) and were similar across treatment arms; most were mild and transient. The most common treatment-emergent AEs were laboratory abnormalities. No deaths or discontinuation due to treatment-emergent AEs were reported and no new safety concerns were identified.

Conclusion

New rac-PZQ and L-PZQ ODT formulations used as single-dose therapy against S. mansoni demonstrated acceptable overall efficacy and safety in preschool-age children and infants, warranting further studies in this population.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02806232; Pan African Clinical Trials Registry, identifier PACTR201604001493593.
Temporal Variation in the Ecological Functioning of Benthic Communities After 20 Years in the Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Tsikopoulou Irini , Dimitriou Panagiotis D. , Karakassis Ioannis , Lampadariou Nikolaos , Papadopoulou Nadia , Smith Christopher J.
Published: October 2021

Marine benthic ecosystems face well-documented changes as a result of human activities. Describing these changes is important for predicting ecosystem functioning. In this context, long-term changes in soft-bottom macrofaunal communities after a quarter of a century were studied in the south Aegean Sea with the purpose of investigating whether temporal changes in taxa diversity are accompanied by changes in functional diversity, and secondly to determine the main mechanisms driving these changes (i.e., deterministic versus stochastic processes). To achieve this, a large data set that included species abundance data collected in 1990 and 2014 from several sampling sites along a transect line was used. A biological trait analysis (BTA) was conducted to determine the species functional roles. The results revealed a decline in taxonomic alpha and beta diversity metrics between 1990 and 2014, a difference that was also reflected in functional richness, partially in functional redundancy, but not in functional composition. The stability of functional composition indicated that replacements of functionally similar taxa may occur, ensuring the resilience of the ecosystem to provide goods and services. Finally, the comparison of co-occurrence and functional networks for 1990 indicated a non-differentiation with the null model and, it was not possible to determine if the benthic community was structured due to stochastic processes (e.g., dispersal, natural phenomena) or an overlap of deterministic processes (e.g., niche-filtering, competition). In contrast, the comparison of networks for 2014 pointed out that environmental conditions have acted as a major filter on species distribution.
Reactive Transport Modelling of Chloride Ingress in Saturated Coral Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Guo Bingbing , Li Zhenming , Fu Qiang , Wang Yan , Huang Daguan , Niu Ditao
Published: October 2021

Utilizing coral aggregate concrete (CAC) for construction on remote islands can significantly reduce construction cost and period, CO2 emission, and consumption of non-renewable energy. The durability of reinforced CAC structures is critically influenced by their resistance to chloride attack. In this study, a reactive transport modelling was developed to investigate chloride ingress in CAC, in which a COMSOL-PHREEQC interface based on MATLAB language was established. The experiment from the literature was taken as a benchmark example. The results show that the developed numerical model can accurately predict chloride transport in CAC. Differing from ordinary aggregate concrete (OAC), Kuzel’s salt does not appear in cement hydrate compounds of CAC during chloride ingress. The numerical results indicate that the penetration depth of chloride in CAC gradually increases as the exposure time is prolonged. When CAC is exposed to an external chloride solution, the decrease in the pH of the pore solution affects the precipitation of Friedel’s salt, which is detrimental to the chemical binding of chloride.
Cutaneous and Systemic Psoriasis: Classifications and Classification for the Distinction
Authors: Yan Bing-Xi , Chen Xue-Yan , Ye Li-Ran , Chen Jia-Qi , Zheng Min , Man Xiao-Yong
Published: October 2021

Psoriasis is a chronic multisystem inflammatory disease that affects ~0.1–1.5% of the world population. The classic cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis is scaly erythematous plaques, limited or widely distributed. Moreover, psoriasis could be associated with comorbidities like psoriatic arthritis, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, nephropathy, bowel disease, and brain diseases. In this review, we suggest that psoriasis should be classified as cutaneous psoriasis or systemic psoriasis and propose the classification for distinction. This would help to better understand and manage psoriasis.
Retrospective Study of Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients With and Without Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support in Wuhan, China
Authors: Cheng Wei , Ma Xu-Dong , Su Long-Xiang , Long Yun , Liu Da-Wei , Du Bin , Qiu Hai-Bo , Guan Xiang-Dong , Chen De-Chang , Kang Yan , Tong Zhao-Hui , Peng Zhi-Yong , Shang You , Zheng Rui-Qiang , Li Shu-Sheng , Pan Chun , Huang Xiao-Bo , Zhan Qing-Yuan , Ding Ren-Yu , Huang Chao-Lin , Yin Yong-Jie , Li Sheng-Qing , Li Xu-Yan , Jiang Li , Hu Ming , Li Xin , Zhou Xiang , Jing Zhi-Cheng , Guo Yan-Hong , Zhang Shu-Yang
Published: October 2021

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) might benefit critically ill COVID-19 patients. But the considerations besides indications guiding ECMO initiation under extreme pressure during the COVID-19 epidemic was not clear. We aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics and in-hospital mortality of severe critically ill COVID-19 patients supported with ECMO and without ECMO, exploring potential parameters for guiding the initiation during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Methods: Observational cohort study of all the critically ill patients indicated for ECMO support from January 1 to May 1, 2020, in all 62 authorized hospitals in Wuhan, China.

Results: Among the 168 patients enrolled, 74 patients actually received ECMO support and 94 not were analyzed. The in-hospital mortality of the ECMO supported patients was significantly lower than non-ECMO ones (71.6 vs. 85.1%, P = 0.033), but the role of ECMO was affected by patients' age (Logistic regression OR 0.62, P = 0.24). As for the ECMO patients, the median age was 58 (47–66) years old and 62.2% (46/74) were male. The 28-day, 60-day, and 90-day mortality of these ECMO supported patients were 32.4, 68.9, and 74.3% respectively. Patients survived to discharge were younger (49 vs. 62 years, P = 0.042), demonstrated higher lymphocyte count (886 vs. 638 cells/uL, P = 0.022), and better CO2 removal (PaCO2 immediately after ECMO initiation 39.7 vs. 46.9 mmHg, P = 0.041). Age was an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality of the ECMO supported patients, and a cutoff age of 51 years enabled prediction of in-hospital mortality with a sensitivity of 84.3% and specificity of 55%. The surviving ECMO supported patients had longer ICU and hospital stays (26 vs. 18 days, P = 0.018; 49 vs. 29 days, P = 0.001 respectively), and ECMO procedure was widely carried out after the supplement of medical resources after February 15 (67.6%, 50/74).

Conclusions: ECMO might be a benefit for severe critically ill COVID-19 patients at the early stage of epidemic, although the in-hospital mortality was still high. To initiate ECMO therapy under tremendous pressure, patients' age, lymphocyte count, and adequacy of medical resources should be fully considered.
The Response of Extracellular Polymeric Substances Production by Phototrophic Biofilms to a Sequential Disturbance Strongly Depends on Environmental Conditions
Authors: Loustau Emilie , Leflaive Joséphine , Boscus Claire , Amalric Quentin , Ferriol Jessica , Oleinikova Olga , Pokrovsky Oleg S. , Girbal-Neuhauser Elisabeth , Rols Jean-Luc
Published: October 2021

Phototrophic biofilms are exposed to multiple stressors that can affect them both directly and indirectly. By modifying either the composition of the community or the physiology of the microorganisms, press stressors may indirectly impact the ability of the biofilms to cope with disturbances. Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) produced by the biofilm are known to play an important role in its resilience to various stresses. The aim of this study was to decipher to what extent slight modifications of environmental conditions could alter the resilience of phototrophic biofilm EPS to a realistic sequential disturbance (4-day copper exposure followed by a 14-day dry period). By using very simplified biofilms with a single algal strain, we focused solely on physiological effects. The biofilms, composed by the non-axenic strains of a green alga (Uronema confervicolum) or a diatom (Nitzschia palea) were grown in artificial channels in six different conditions of light intensity, temperature and phosphorous concentration. EPS quantity (total organic carbon) and quality (ratio protein/polysaccharide, PN/PS) were measured before and at the end of the disturbance, and after a 14-day rewetting period. The diatom biofilm accumulated more biomass at the highest temperature, with lower EPS content and lower PN/PS ratio while green alga biofilm accumulated more biomass at the highest light condition with lower EPS content and lower PN/PS ratio. Temperature, light intensity, and P concentration significantly modified the resistance and/or recovery of EPS quality and quantity, differently for the two biofilms. An increase in light intensity, which had effect neither on the diatom biofilm growth nor on EPS production before disturbance, increased the resistance of EPS quantity and the resilience of EPS quality. These results emphasize the importance of considering the modulation of community resilience ability by environmental conditions, which remains scarce in the literature.
Selenomethionine Improves Mitochondrial Function by Upregulating Mitochondrial Selenoprotein in a Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Chen Chen , Chen Yao , Zhang Zhong-Hao , Jia Shi-Zheng , Chen Yu-Bin , Huang Shao-Ling , Xu Xin-Wen , Song Guo-Li
Published: October 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common neurodegenerative disease in elderly humans, is pathologically characterized by amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Mitochondrial dysfunction that occurs in the early stages of AD, which includes dysfunction in mitochondrial generation and energy metabolism, is considered to be closely associated with AD pathology. Selenomethionine (Se-Met) has been reported to improve cognitive impairment and reduce amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in 3xTg-AD mice. Whether Se-Met can regulate mitochondrial dysfunction in an AD model during this process remains unknown.In this study, the N2a-APP695-Swedish (N2aSW) cell and 8-month-old 3xTg-AD mice were treated with Se-Met in vitro and in vivo. Our study showed that the numbers of mitochondria were increased after treatment with Se-Met. Se-Met treatment also significantly increased the levels of NRF1 and Mfn2, and decreased those of OPA1 and Drp1. In addition, the mitochondrial membrane potential was significantly increased, while the ROS levels and apoptosis rate were significantly decreased, in cells after treatment with Se-Met. The levels of ATP, complex IV, and Cyt c and the activity of complex V were all significantly increased. Furthermore, the expression level of SELENO O was increased after Se-Met treatment. Thus, Se-Met can maintain mitochondrial dynamic balance, promote mitochondrial fusion or division, restore mitochondrial membrane potential, promote mitochondrial energy metabolism, inhibit intracellular ROS generation, and reduce apoptosis. These effects are most likely mediated via upregulation of SELENO O. In summary, Se-Met improves mitochondrial function by upregulating mitochondrial selenoprotein in these AD models.
Lactobacillus plantarum TWK10 Attenuates Aging-Associated Muscle Weakness, Bone Loss, and Cognitive Impairment by Modulating the Gut Microbiome in Mice
Authors: Lee Chia-Chia , Liao Yi-Chu , Lee Mon-Chien , Lin Kun-Ju , Hsu Han-Yin , Chiou Shiou-Yun , Young San-Land , Lin Jin-Seng , Huang Chi-Chang , Watanabe Koichi
Published: October 2021

In humans, aging is characterized by the progressive decline in biological, physiological, and psychological functions, and is a major risk factor in the development of chronic diseases. Therefore, the development of strategies aimed at attenuating aging-related disorders and promoting healthy aging is critical. In a previous study, we have demonstrated that Lactobacillus plantarum TWK10 (TWK10), a probiotic strain isolated from Taiwanese pickled cabbage, improved muscle strength, exercise endurance, and overall body composition in healthy humans. In this study, the effect of TWK10 on the progression of age-related impairments was investigated in mice. We found that TWK10 not only enhanced muscle strength in young mice, but also prevented the aging-related loss of muscle strength in aged mice, which was accompanied by elevated muscle glycogen levels. Furthermore, TWK10 attenuated the aging-associated decline in learning and memory abilities, as well as bone mass. Further analyses of gut microbiota using next-generation sequencing (NGS) of the 16S rRNA gene showed that the pattern of gut microbial composition was clearly altered following 8 weeks of TWK10 administration. TWK10-treated mice also experienced an increase in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria and higher overall levels of gut SCFA. Furthermore, TWK10 administration to some extent reversed the aging-associated accumulation of pathogenic bacterial taxa. In conclusion, TWK10 could be viewed as a potential therapeutic agent that attenuates aging-related disorders and provides health benefits by modulating the imbalance of gut microbiota.
Recent Advances of Manganese-Based Hybrid Nanomaterials for Cancer Precision Medicine
Authors: Liu Xiaoman , Rong Pengfei
Published: October 2021

Cancer precision medicine (CPM) could tailor the best treatment for individual cancer patients, while imaging techniques play important roles in its application. With the characteristics of noninvasion, nonionized, radiation-free, multidimensional imaging function, and real-time monitoring, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an effective way for early tumor detection, and it has become a tower of strength in CPM imaging techniques. Due to linkage with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), gadolinium (Gd)-based contrast agent (CA), which was long used in MRI, has been restricted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In this review, we would like to introduce the manganese (Mn)-based CAs that could significantly increase the safety of MRI CAs by realizing more superior performance and functions simultaneously in the diagnosis and treatment of tumors. Also, recent advances in Mn-based hybrid nanomaterials for CPM are summarized and discussed.
Dynamics of Intraprocedural Dominant Frequency Identifies Ablation Outcome in Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Pithon Alain , McCann Anna , Buttu Andréa , Vesin Jean-Marc , Pascale Patrizio , Le Bloa Mathieu , Herrera Claudia , Park Chan-Il , Roten Laurent , Kühne Michael , Spies Florian , Knecht Sven , Sticherling Christian , Pruvot Etienne , Luca Adrian
Published: October 2021

Background: The role of dominant frequency (DF) in tracking the efficiency of a stepwise catheter ablation (step-CA) in persistent atrial fibrillation (peAF) remains poorly studied. We hypothesized that the DF time-course during step-CA displays divergent patterns between patients in whom a step-CA successfully restores long-term sinus rhythm (SR) and those with recurrence.

Methods: This study involved 40 consecutive patients who underwent a step-CA for peAF (sustained duration 19 ± 11 months). Dominant frequency was computed on electrograms recorded from the right and left atrial appendages (RAA; LAA) and the coronary sinus before and during the step-CA synchronously to the 12-lead ECG. Dominant frequency was defined as the highest peak within the power spectrum.

Results: Persistent atrial fibrillation was terminated by a step-CA in 28 patients [left-terminated (LT)], whereas 12 patients remaining in AF after ablation [not left-terminated (NLT)] were cardioverted. Over a mean follow-up of 34 ± 14 months, all NLT patients had a recurrence. Among the 28 LT patients, 20 had a recurrence, while 8 remained in SR throughout follow-up. The RAA and V1 DF had the best predictive values of the procedural failure to terminate AF (area under the curve; AUC 0.84, p < 0.05). A decision tree model including a decrease in LAA DF ≥ 6.61% during the first 20 min following pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and a baseline RAA DF <5.6 Hz predicted long-term SR restoration with a sensitivity of 83% and a specificity of 93% (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: This study found that high baseline DF values are predictive of unfavorable ablation outcomes. The reduction of the LAA DF at early ablation steps following PVI is associated with procedural AF termination and long-term SR maintenance.
School Memories of Preservice Teachers: An Analysis of Their Role in the Conceptions About the Relationships Between Emotions and Teaching/Learning Processes
Authors: Bächler Rodolfo , Salas Romina
Published: October 2021

With the aim of exploring the role of emotional elementary school memories that preservice teachers have, in their conceptions about the relationships between emotions and teaching-learning processes, a study was carried out. The sample consisted of all first-year preservice teacher from one campus of a Chilean public university (167 students). The study used a mixed method research composed of two stages. In the first part (quantitative), the conceptions of the preservice teachers were evaluated by means a dilemma questionnaire. In the second part (qualitative), a retrospective imagery was applied to a subgroup of thirty participants from the total sample with the aim of detecting and analyzing emotionally significant memories of teaching-learning situations in elementary school. The result of the first part of the study showed that most of preservice teachers maintain conceptions that separates affect and cognition as non-integrated processes. The results of the second part revealed that preservice teachers remember different types of experiences, most of them are associated with the characteristic and behavior from their primary school teachers. Finally, the recovered memories were analyzed in terms of their relationship with conceptions, concluding that having experienced fear in school could be a factor related to the type of conceptions held.
Applying Technology Acceptance Model in Online Entrepreneurship Education for New Entrepreneurs
Authors: Su Yawen , Li Moyan
Published: October 2021

The present study aims to enrich the research on online entrepreneurship education, improve the level and ability of entrepreneurship services in China, and improve the overall success rate of entrepreneurship. Based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) proposed by researcher Davis, the study explores the application of TAM in online entrepreneurship education for new entrepreneurs. First, new entrepreneurs who are users of the online entrepreneurship education platform are selected as research objects, and then the influence of the four factors are studied, including perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, classroom self-efficacy, and perceived external control. Finally, the hypothesis proposed is tested. Results show that online entrepreneurship education influences the perceived ease of use of the user and perceived credibility: the quality of the online entrepreneurship education has a positive impact on the user's perceived usefulness, interactivity has a positive influence on perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, and interactivity positively influences the perceived ease of use of the user and perceived credibility. Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and perceived credibility have a positive impact on the behavioral intention of the users. The proposed TAM provides some technical and theoretical support for the application of TAM in online entrepreneurship education for new entrepreneurs.
Bridging the Gap? Altered Thalamocortical Connectivity in Psychotic and Psychedelic States
Authors: Avram Mihai , Rogg Helena , Korda Alexandra , Andreou Christina , Müller Felix , Borgwardt Stefan
Published: October 2021

Psychiatry has a well-established tradition of comparing drug-induced experiences to psychotic symptoms, based on shared phenomena such as altered perceptions. The present review focuses on experiences induced by classic psychedelics, which are substances capable of eliciting powerful psychoactive effects, characterized by distortions/alterations of several neurocognitive processes (e.g., hallucinations). Herein we refer to such experiences as psychedelic states. Psychosis is a clinical syndrome defined by impaired reality testing, also characterized by impaired neurocognitive processes (e.g., hallucinations and delusions). In this review we refer to acute phases of psychotic disorders as psychotic states. Neuropharmacological investigations have begun to characterize the neurobiological mechanisms underpinning the shared and distinct neurophysiological changes observed in psychedelic and psychotic states. Mounting evidence indicates changes in thalamic filtering, along with disturbances in cortico-striato-pallido-thalamo-cortical (CSPTC)-circuitry, in both altered states. Notably, alterations in thalamocortical functional connectivity were reported by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies. Thalamocortical dysconnectivity and its clinical relevance are well-characterized in psychotic states, particularly in schizophrenia research. Specifically, studies report hyperconnectivity between the thalamus and sensorimotor cortices and hypoconnectivity between the thalamus and prefrontal cortices, associated with patients' psychotic symptoms and cognitive disturbances, respectively. Intriguingly, studies also report hyperconnectivity between the thalamus and sensorimotor cortices in psychedelic states, correlating with altered visual and auditory perceptions. Taken together, the two altered states appear to share clinically and functionally relevant dysconnectivity patterns. In this review we discuss recent findings of thalamocortical dysconnectivity, its putative extension to CSPTC circuitry, along with its clinical implications and future directions.
Educational and Training Interventions Aimed at Healthcare Workers in the Detection and Management of People With Mental Health Conditions in South and South-East Asia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Koly Kamrun Nahar , Baskin Cleo , Khanam Ivylata , Rao Mala , Rasheed Sabrina , Law Graham R. , Sarker Farhana , Gnani Shamini
Published: October 2021

Background: To bridge significant mental health treatment gaps, it is essential that the healthcare workforce is able to detect and manage mental health conditions. We aim to synthesise evidence of effective educational and training interventions aimed at healthcare workers to increase their ability to detect and manage mental health conditions in South and South-East Asia.

Methods: Systematic review of six electronic academic databases from January 2000 to August 2020 was performed. All primary research studies were eligible if conducted among healthcare workers in South and South-East Asia and reported education and training interventions to improve detection and management of mental health conditions. Quality of studies were assessed using Modified Cochrane Collaboration, ROBINS-I, and Mixed Methods Appraisal Tools and data synthesised by narrative synthesis. Results are reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines. A review protocol was registered with the PROSPERO database (CRD42020203955).

Findings: We included 48 of 3,654 screened articles. Thirty-six reported improvements in knowledge and skills in the detection and management of mental health conditions. Training was predominantly delivered to community and primary care health workers to identify and manage common mental health disorders. Commonly used training included the World Health Organization's mhGAP guidelines (n = 9) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (n = 8) and were successfully tailored and delivered to healthcare workers. Digitally delivered training was found to be acceptable and effective. Only one study analysed cost effectiveness. Few targeted severe mental illnesses and upskilling mental health specialists or offered long-term follow-up or supervision. We found 21 studies were appraised as low/moderate and 19 as high/critical risk of bias.

Interpretation: In low resource country settings, upskilling and capacity building of primary care and community healthcare workers can lead to better detection and management of people with mental health disorders and help reduce the treatment gap.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42020203955.
Cross-Sectional Study on Health Literacy and Internet Accessibility Among Patients With DM in Gansu, China
Authors: Zhao Na , Luo Xifeng , Zhang Hailiang , Dai Runjing , Pan Weimin , Hambly Brett D. , Bao Shisan , Zhu Xiangdong , Fan Jingchun
Published: October 2021

Objective: To determine the relationship between the health literacy of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and the accessibility of internet surfing for information concerning DM.

Methods: A multistage stratified sampling method was utilized to conduct a questionnaire survey on DM health literacy and internet accessibility among 1,563 patients with DM in Gansu Province in 2020. Logistic regression was performed to analyze the factors that influence health literacy and internet accessibility; while the chi-square test was used to compare the differences in needs.

Results: Among 1,563 valid questionnaires collected with an effective rate of 95.7%, there were 65.4, 66.3, or 51.1% of patients with DM were found to have good health knowledge, attitudes, or practice levels, respectively. Occupation, income, disease course of DM, and accessibility to the internet were the main factors influencing health literacy. Age, residency, occupation, education, income, and family history of DM were the factors influencing accessibility to internet surfing for DM. The expectations from patients with DM for the capacity to obtain DM information from traditional sources or through internet sources was 1,465 (93.7%) or 1,145 (73.3%), respectively. Patients with DM had a 2-fold higher desire to obtain DM health information from internet media if the patients had access to the internet than those without (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: The socioeconomic status and access to the internet were the main contributing factors for health literacy, as socioeconomic status is closely related to access to the internet.
mTORC1 Crosstalk With Stress Granules in Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Authors: Cadena Sandoval Marti , Heberle Alexander Martin , Rehbein Ulrike , Barile Cecilia , Ramos Pittol José Miguel , Thedieck Kathrin
Published: October 2021

The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) kinase is a master regulator of metabolism and aging. A complex signaling network converges on mTORC1 and integrates growth factor, nutrient and stress signals. Aging is a dynamic process characterized by declining cellular survival, renewal, and fertility. Stressors elicited by aging hallmarks such as mitochondrial malfunction, loss of proteostasis, genomic instability and telomere shortening impinge on mTORC1 thereby contributing to age-related processes. Stress granules (SGs) constitute a cytoplasmic non-membranous compartment formed by RNA-protein aggregates, which control RNA metabolism, signaling, and survival under stress. Increasing evidence reveals complex crosstalk between the mTORC1 network and SGs. In this review, we cover stressors elicited by aging hallmarks that impinge on mTORC1 and SGs. We discuss their interplay, and we highlight possible links in the context of aging and age-related diseases.
Menstruation Dysregulation and Endometriosis Development
Authors: Kuan Kevin K. W. , Gibson Douglas A. , Whitaker Lucy H. R. , Horne Andrew W.
Published: October 2021

Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition characterized by the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside of the uterus which may cause symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain or subfertility. Several surgical and medical therapies are available to manage symptoms, but a cure has yet to be determined which can be attributed to the incomplete understanding of disease pathogenesis. Sampson's theory of retrograde menstruation is a widely accepted theory describing how shed endometrial tissue can enter the peritoneal cavity, but other factors are likely at play to facilitate the establishment of endometriosis lesions. This review summarizes literature that has explored how dysregulation of menstruation can contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis such as dysregulation of inflammatory mediators, aberrant endometrial matrix metalloproteinase expression, hypoxic stress, and reduced apoptosis. Overall, many of these factors have overlapping pathways which can prolong the survival of shed endometrial debris, increase tissue migration, and facilitate implantation of endometrial tissue at ectopic sites. Moreover, some of these changes are also implicated in abnormal uterine bleeding and endometrial diseases. More research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms driving dysregulation of menstruation in endometriosis specifically and identifying specific pathways could introduce new treatment targets. Analyzing menstrual fluid from women with endometriosis for inflammatory markers and other biomarkers may also be beneficial for earlier diagnosis and disease staging.
Flexibilizing the Retirement Transition: Why, How and for Whom? Conceptual Clarifications, Institutional Arrangements and Potential Consequences
Authors: Scherger Simone
Published: October 2021

In many countries, flexibilizing the retirement transition is seen as an innovative policy which may help to solve some of the problems ageing societies face. The paper aims at specifying what is or can be meant by flexibilizing the retirement transition. The proposed conceptual framework contributes to a better understanding of the potential individual and structural consequences of flexibilized retirement transitions. It spells out four dimensions based on which measures of flexibilization can be differentiated, compared and examined more closely: aggregate vs. individual flexibilization (the latter resulting in gradual retirement), the temporal form and reference of flexibilizing measures, accessibility and eligibility, and financial risks and costs resulting from flexible transitions to retirement. These dimensions of comparison are exemplified by referring to existing measures of retirement flexibilization, in particular wage subsidies and partial pensions. Based on the conceptual argument, some of the potential consequences of flexibilized retirement transitions are discussed critically and in particular with regard to questions of social inequality. As these reflections show, the framework may also help to unpack the policy logic behind flexibilizing retirement transitions, and the very different interests it may serve.
Micro Change Agents for Gender Equality: Transforming European Research Performing Organizations
Authors: Dahmen-Adkins Jennifer , Peterson Helen
Published: October 2021

This article explores the experiences of micro change agents for gender equality in seven European Research Performing Organizations in seven different countries. The micro change agents were all participants of an international collaborative project consortium, implementing gender equality plans (GEPs), and funded by the European Commission during 4 years. The analysis draws on empirical data consisting of information submitted by the micro change agents during these 4 years and collected using three different monitoring tools, developed within the project to follow the progress of the implementation efforts, but also to provide an arena for individual and collaborative reflection and knowledge exchange between the partners. The aim of the article is to present a systematic analysis of the change practices that these micro change agents experienced as useful and important for promoting gender equality in their different organizational contexts. A total of six such micro change practices are identified, emerging from the empirical data: 1. communicating, 2. community building, 3. building trust and legitimacy, 4. accumulating and using resources, 5. using and transferring knowledge, and 6. drawing on personal motivation. The findings illustrate the multifaceted character of micro change agency for gender equality, particularly in a time-limited project context with a designated funding period. The results from this study can be useful when developing gender equality strategies, policies and practices and can also be used to empower gender equality micro change agents that face challenges while trying to implement GEPs and promote structural change in any kind of institution.
Seasonal Changes and Relationships in Training Loads, Neuromuscular Performance, and Recovery and Stress State in Competitive Female Soccer Players
Authors: Ishida Ai , Bazyler Caleb D. , Sayers Adam L. , Stone Michael H. , Gentles Jeremy A.
Published: October 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine seasonal changes in training load (TL), neuromuscular performance, subjective recovery, and stress state, and to investigate the relationships between acute and chronic TL and neuromuscular performance in competitive female soccer players.

Methods: Nine competitive female soccer players (20.0 ± 1.7 years; 60.3 ± 6.3 kg; 164.0 ± 5.8 cm) completed the Short Recovery and Stress Scale and the countermovement jump (CMJ) with polyvinyl chloride pipe (CMJ0) and 20 kg barbell (CMJ20) at 2–3 h before 1st match (NC1), 6th match (NC2), 9th match (C1), and 15th match (C2) of the competitive season. TL included total distance, high-speed running, and PlayerLoad. Acute and chronic TL was calculated by using the average of 2 days (D2), 7 days (D7), and 21 days (D21) prior to four different match play.

Results: Significant decreases were found from NC1 to C1 in D7 total distance [p = 0.03, Cohen's effect size (dz) = 1.40]. D7 total distance and PlayerLoad significantly decreased from NC to C1 and C2 (p = 0.001–0.01, dz = 1.40–1.72). Significant increases were observed from NC1 to C1 in CMJ0 jump height (p = 0.03, dz = 1.40), (p = 0.021, dz = 1.44), and peak power (p = 0.03, dz = 1.32). Significant negative correlations were observed for D7 total distance and CMJ0 jump height (p = 0.02, r = 0.79) and peak power (p = 0.03, r = 0.71) at C2, while significant positive correlations were observed at C1 for D7 PlayerLoad and CMJ0 jump height (p = 0.02, r = 0.80).

Conclusion: Polyvinyl chloride pipe (CMJ0) jump height and peak power may increase from preseason to the midcompetitive season. Seasonal variations may affect the relationships between D7 TL and CMJ0 performance.
Harnessing Whole Genome Sequence Data for Facility-Specific Signatures for Listeria monocytogenes: A Case Study With Turkey Processing Plants in the United States
Authors: Brown Phillip , Chen Yi , Siletzky Robin , Parsons Cameron , Jaykus Lee-Ann , Eifert Joseph , Ryser Elliot , Logue Catherine M. , Stam Christina , Brown Eric , Kathariou Sophia
Published: October 2021

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive foodborne pathogen responsible for the severe disease listeriosis and notorious for its ability to persist in food processing plants, leading to contamination of processed, ready-to-eat foods. L. monocytogenes persistence in various food processing environments (FPEs) has been extensively investigated by various subtyping tools, with increasing use of whole genome sequencing (WGS). However, major knowledge gaps remain. There is a need for facility-specific molecular signatures not only for adequate attribution of L. monocytogenes to a specific FPE but also for improved understanding of the ecology and evolution of L. monocytogenes in the food processing ecosystem. Furthermore, multiple strains can be recovered from a single FPE sample, but their diversity can be underestimated with common molecular subtyping tools. In this study we investigated a panel of 54 L. monocytogenes strains from four turkey processing plants in the United States. A combination of WGS and phenotypic assays was employed to assess strain persistence as well as identify facility-specific molecular signatures. Comparative analysis of allelic variation across the whole genome revealed that allelic profiles have the potential to be specific to individual processing plants. Certain allelic profiles remained associated with individual plants even when closely-related strains from other sources were included in the analysis. Furthermore, for certain sequence types (STs) based on the seven-locus multilocus sequence typing scheme, presence and location of premature stop codons in inlA, inlB length, prophage sequences, and the sequence content of a genomic hotspot could serve as plant-specific signatures. Interestingly, the analysis of different isolates from the same environmental sample revealed major differences not only in serotype and ST, but even in the sequence content of strains of the same ST. This study highlights the potential for WGS data to be deployed for identification of facility-specific signatures, thus facilitating the tracking of strain movement through the food chain. Furthermore, deployment of WGS for intra-sample strain analysis allows for a more complete environmental surveillance of L. monocytogenes in food processing facilities, reducing the risk of failing to detect strains that may be clinically relevant and potentially novel.
Hacia una ética de la complejidad
Authors: Onnis Luigi
Published: October 2021

El autor se plantea el problema de la ética en psicoterapia desde el punto de vista de la epistemología que guía la actuación psicoterapéutica. Considerando la evolución de la epistemología sistémica, que se ilustra con un breve ejemplo clínico, subraya la emergencia actual de una ética de la complejidad. Esta ética en el campo psicoterapéutico promueve el aumento de los espacios de libertad del paciente y de sus posibilidades de elección, pero, incluso más allá de este campo, favorece una cultura de la tolerancia y del respeto hacia la diferencia.
Ética y constructivismo. Un punto de vista relacional-sistémico
Authors: Cingolani Sergio
Published: October 2021

En el presente artículo el autor explora el nexo existente entre la psicoterapia de orientación constructivista y la ética. Se toma la terapia familiar como ejemplo de una vasta gama de psicoterapias que en estos últimos años han adoptado un marco epistemológico de tipo constructivista.
La psicopatología iatrogénica en psicoanálisis.
Authors: Jervis Giovanni
Published: October 2021

Aunque no de forma exclusiva el artículo se plantea la definición de la patología iatrogénica desde la perspectiva psicodinámica, y se detiene a examinar los casos en los cuales existe una relación más clara entre el tipo de tratamiento y la aparición de trastornos psicológicos identificables.
Terapia cognitivo sistémico-procesual de la pareja
Authors: Guidano Vittorio , Dodet Maurizio
Published: October 2021

En este artículo se presenta un modelo de terapia cognitiva sistémico-procesual de pareja. En una primera parte se exponen los presupuestos teóricos desde una óptica post-racionalista mediante la revisión de la literatura existente, en la segunda se esquematiza un protocolo terapéutico que después se desarolla en la tercera parte con la exposición de un caso clínico. El enfoque propuesto ofrece la posibilidad de reformular problemáticas que se dan en terapia relativas a la interacción entre ambas organizaciones del sí-mismo de los miembros de la pareja. La finalidad de la terapia es identificar y explicitar el significado entorno al cual se articula la coherencia del sistema de pareja mediante la comprensión de sus capacidades autorreferenciales y de auto-organización.
Prediction on Domestic Violence in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 Outbreak Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Hossain Md. , Asadullah Md. , Rahaman Abidur , Miah Md. , Hasan M. , Paul Tonmay , Hossain Mohammad
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak resulted in preventative measures and restrictions for Bangladesh during the summer of 2020—these unstable and stressful times led to multiple social problems (e.g., domestic violence and divorce). Globally, researchers, policymakers, governments, and civil societies have been concerned about the increase in domestic violence against women and children during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In Bangladesh, domestic violence against women and children has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, we investigated family violence among 511 families during the COVID-19 outbreak. Participants were given questionnaires to answer, for a period of over ten days; we predicted family violence using a machine learning-based model. To predict domestic violence from our data set, we applied random forest, logistic regression, and Naive Bayes machine learning algorithms to our model. We employed an oversampling strategy named the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) and the chi-squared statistical test to, respectively, solve the imbalance problem and discover the feature importance of our data set. The performances of the machine learning algorithms were evaluated based on accuracy, precision, recall, and F-score criteria. Finally, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and confusion matrices were developed and analyzed for three algorithms. On average, our model, with the random forest, logistic regression, and Naive Bayes algorithms, predicted family violence with 77%, 69%, and 62% accuracy for our data set. The findings of this study indicate that domestic violence has increased and is highly related to two features: family income level during the COVID-19 pandemic and education level of the family members.