bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Distress Scale (RADS) – A New Tool to Identify Disease-Specific Distress in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Silke Linda , Kirresh Othman , Sturt Jackie , Lempp Heidi
Published: February 2021

Background. Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) may experience psychological distress (depression, anxiety) in addition to their physical symptoms. People with RA may also experience disease-specific distress (DSD), related to the specific burden of living with their life-long condition. DSD is a patient reported outcome in several long-term conditions, including type 1 and 2 diabetes. The aims of this study were to determine whether DSD is experienced by people with RA, and if so, develop a Patient Reported Outcome Measure (PROM) to assess for DSD in people with RA.Methods. A five-phased qualitative study was conducted which consisted of a secondary data analysis of 61 interviews of people with rheumatological disease (Phase 1), validation of findings via a Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) group of people with RA (n=4) (Phase 2), item generation for a PROM (Phase 3) and establishing face and content validity of the PROM via PPI group (n=4) and individual cognitive interviews (n=9) of people with RA respectively (Phase 4 and 5).The final PROM was presented at a Patient Education Evening for patients with long-term rheumatological conditions, including RA, and carers.Results. Five themes of rheumatological disease distress emerged from Phase 1, which were validated in the Phase 2 PPI group. After Phases 3-5, the Rheumatoid Arthritis Distress Scale (RADS) was formed of 39 items and 3 supplementary questions. Overall participants reported the content of the RADS to be clear and relevant, and that DSD is a valid concept in RA, distinct from other entities like clinical depression or anxiety.Conclusions. DSD appears to be an important concept in RA. The 39-item RADS demonstrates acceptable face and content validity in this patient group. Further psychometric testing is needed. The RADS may be a useful tool for healthcare professionals to identify RA distress.
Rock Slope Stability and Water tightness Assessment of Arjo Didesa Dam site, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Asfaw Legesse , Meten Matebie
Published: February 2021

Arjo Didesa dam is an earth and rock fill dam which is under construction on the Didesa River in western Ethiopia. However, the dam encountered engineering geological problems that affected the water tightness and slope stability of the dam abutments and reservoir area. To solve these problems, different methods such as discontinuity survey, packer test, sampling and laboratory tests were applied to evaluate the engineering geological conditions of materials along the dam abutments and reservoir area on slope stability and water tightness. Slope stability analyses were performed by kinematic, limit equilibrium and finite element methods using laboratory and in-situ tests. Kinematic analyses revealed that both the left abutment slope 1(LAS1) and the right abutment slope 1(RAS1) sections were unstable for planar mode of failures. Further stability analyses using deterministic methods indicated that both sections were unstable only during saturated conditions. Similarly, stability analysis using limit equilibrium and finite element method revealed that both the left abutment slope 2(LAS2) and the right abutment slope 2(RAS2) sections were unstable under saturated conditions. This study also analyzed the permeability of soils and rock masses and the result showed that the permeability values range from 2.693*10− 7cm/s − 6.687*10− 5cm/s and 3.19*10− 5cm/s − 1.3*10+ 1cm/s for soils and rock masses respectively. Integration of surface hydraulic conductivity and subsurface packer permeability tests showed the presence of potential leakage through the dam abutments. Remedial measures such as rock bolts, anchors and shotcrete for slope stabilization and grouting and clay blanketing are recommended to control this leakage.
Ivermectin in mild and moderate COVID-19 (RIVET-COV): a randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Mohan Anant , Tiwari Pawan , Suri Tejas , Mittal Saurabh , Patel Ankit , Jain Avinash , T. Velpandian , Das Ujjwal Kumar , Bopanna Tarun K. , Pandey RM , Shelke Sushil , Singh Angel Rajan , Bhatnagar Sushma , Masih Shet , Mahajan Shelly , Dwivedi Tanima , Sahoo Biswajeet , Pandit Anuja , Bhopale Shweta , Vig Saurabh , Gupta Ritu , Madan Karan , Hadda Vijay , Gupta Nishkarsh , Garg Rakesh , Meena Ved Prakash , Guleria Randeep
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Till date, no drug has shown definite benefit in non-severe COVID-19. Ivermectin is an antiparasitic drug which has in-vitro efficacy in reducing coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) load in severe disease. Objectives: To determine if a single oral administration of Ivermectin to patients with mild and moderate COVID-19 is effective in converting SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR to negative result and in reducing viral load.Methods: In this double-blind trial, patients were randomized to elixir formulation of Ivermectin in 24 mg, 12 mg or placebo in 1:1:1 ratio. The co-primary outcomes were conversion of RT-PCR to negative result and the decline of viral load at day 5 of enrolment and were assessed in patients with positive RT-PCR at enrolment (modified intention-to-treat population). Safety outcomes included total and serious adverse events and were assessed in all patients who received the trial drug (intention-to-treat population). Results: Among 157 patients randomized, 125 patients were included in mITT analysis. Forty patients each were assigned to Ivermectin 24 mg and 12 mg, and 45 patients to placebo. The RT-PCR negativity at day 5 was higher in the two Ivermectin arms but failed to attain statistical significance (Ivermectin 24 mg, 47.5%; 12 mg, 35.0%; and placebo, 31.1%; p= 0.30). The decline of viral load at day 5 was similar in the three arms. No serious adverse events were encountered.Conclusion: In patients with mild and moderate COVID-19, a single administration of Ivermectin elixir (either 24 mg or 12 mg) demonstrated a trend towards higher proportion of RT-PCR negativity at day 5 of enrolment. The protocol was registered in the Clinical Trial Registry – India (CTRI) vide ref No CTRI/2020/06/026001.
Physiological adaptation and transcriptome changes in the plateau plant common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) in response to the plain environment
Authors: He Jinglei , Kong Lingzelai , Yu Jinqiu , Li Bing , Hou Xiangyin , Yuan Yuying , Yin Hang , Cui Guowen
Published: February 2021

Background
Light and temperature are among the most important factors in plant growth. The annual forage variety common vetch was grown under the special environment of high light intensity and low temperature on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. In the seedling stage, the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau adapted variety common vetch was airlifted to the inland plain. Its response to the plain environment and its regulatory mechanism are not clear.
Results

The samples collected the day before transportation were used as a control. After being transported back to the plain, the morphological structure and physiological indexes were determined on days one, three, five and seven. Compared with the control group, the chlorophyll content in the experimental group changed significantly. Chlorophyll fluorescence increased significantly on the fifth day. The number of stomatal openings decreased significantly on the first day and then increased gradually and exceeded that of the control. Compared with the control sample, the intercellular space of the experimental sample was larger and then did not return to the control level. The physiological indexes gradually returned to the control level on the 7th day. Transcriptome analysis showed that 3251 genes were upregulated and 3317 genes were downregulated on the third day, while 1359 genes were upregulated and 1648 genes were downregulated on the seventh day. These differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in photosynthesis, photosynthetic antenna protein synthesis, carbon dioxide fixation and chlorophyll synthesis pathways, and almost all of the genes involved in these pathways were downregulated. In addition, MYB, NAC, AP2-EREBP and the Orphans family of transcription factors (TFs) regulating the light response were more abundant on day 3 and day 7 than in the control group.
Conclusion
The physiological and gene expression levels of common vetch transported to the plain environment were analyzed. To reveal the adaptation mechanism of common vetch to plain environments, the key metabolic pathways of differential gene enrichment were analyzed. These findings are helpful for introducing plateau suitable varieties into plain environments.
Standardized Mortality Analysis of Military Firefighters from 2000-2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: MANNARINO ROSANNA VILARDO , Monteiro Gina Torres Rego
Published: February 2021

BackgroundsA military fireman’s profession is of extreme importance since they perform a wide variety of work. However, these firefighters are constantly exposed to stressful situations and hazardous substances known to harm their health. To fully perform their functions, they should have good physical and mental health, which requires them to have periodic medical examinations and constant training. To the best of our knowledge, there is no study assessing the causes of mortality of members of the military fire brigade of Rio de Janeiro despite its relevance to future projections in relation to the health of these professionals.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective mortality study on a cohort of military firefighters in the state of Rio de Janeiro from 2000 to 2016 and calculated the Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR) of male firefighters who served in the corporation in this period. To obtain the SMR, everyone’s participation time in years in the corporation was calculated, and the sum of the data set the person-time of this cohort. As a reference, we used the population of men over 19 years old in the state of Rio de Janeiro in 2010 according to the Demographic Census.ResultsA total of 1,816 deaths were identified, corresponding to the lowest overall mortality expected for the general population (SMR: 64.6%; 95%CI: 61.6–67.6%), cardiovascular diseases (SMR: 64.4%; 95%CI: 58.8–69.9%) and external causes of mortality (SMR: 88.5%; 95%CI: 79.9–97.0%). However, in the external causes of death, there was a statistically significant mortality excess in the age groups from 40 to 49 and 50 to 59 years.ConclusionThe firefighters’ group had the lowest overall mortality detected in both the general and the main chapters of the 10th Revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases.
Worry and Mental Health in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Vulnerability Factors in the General Norwegian Population
Authors: Blix Ines , Birkeland Marianne Skogbrott , Thoresen Siri
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThere is an urgent need for knowledge about the mental health consequences of the ongoing pandemic. The aim of this study was to identify vulnerability factors for psychological distress and reduced life satisfaction in the general population. Furthermore, we aimed to assess the role of COVID-related worries for psychological distress and life satisfaction. Methods A presumed representative sample for the Norwegian population (n=1041, response rate=39.9%) responded to a web-survey in May 2020. The participants were asked about potential vulnerability factors including increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 (underlying illness, older age), socioeconomic disadvantage (living alone, unemployment, economic problems), and pre-existing mental health vulnerability (recent exposure to violence, previous mental health challenges). Additional measures included COVID-related worry, psychological distress, and life satisfaction. ResultsMore than one out of four reported current psychological distress over the threshold for clinically significant symptoms. Socioeconomic disadvantages, including living alone and pre-existing economic challenges, and pre-existing mental health vulnerabilities, including recent exposure to violence and previous mental health problems, were associated with a higher level of psychological distress and a lower level of life satisfaction.ConclusionThis study identified several vulnerability factors for mental health problems in the pandemic. Individuals recently exposed to violence and individuals with pre-existing mental health problems are at particular risk. Worrying about the consequences of the pandemic contributes negatively to current mental health. However, worry cannot explain the excess distress in vulnerable groups. Future research should focus on how COVID-related strains contribute to mental health problems for vulnerable groups.
miR-24 targets SARS-CoV-2 co-factor Neuropilin-1 in human brain microvascular endothelial cells: Insights for COVID-19 neurological manifestations
Authors: Mone Pasquale , Gambardella Jessica , Wang Xujun , Jankauskas Stanislovas S. , Matarese Alessandro , Santulli Gaetano
Published: February 2021

Neuropilin-1 is a transmembrane glycoprotein that has been implicated in several processes including angiogenesis and immunity. Recent evidence has also shown that it is implied in the cellular internalization of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), which causes the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We hypothesized that specific microRNAs can target Neuropilin-1. By combining bioinformatic and functional approaches, we identified miR-24 as a regulator of Neuropilin-1 transcription. Since Neuropilin-1 has been shown to play a key role in the endothelium-mediated regulation of the blood-brain barrier, we validated miR-24 as a functional modulator of Neuropilin-1 in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMECs), which are the most suitable cell line for an in vitro blood–brain barrier model.
Smoking Patterns Among Third Level Students: A latent class analysis
Authors: Igboanugo Tochukwu , Ramesh Anusha Malapati
Published: February 2021

Introduction: The psychosocial framework of adolescent transformation period is characterised by risk-taking behaviours such as the use of psychoactive substances like tobacco. Smoking initiated at this stage may lead to a lifetime nicotine-addiction. This study aims to identify and describe a typology of smoking among third level student smokers according to their pattern of smoking and to inform the designing of effective interventions in tobacco use among studentsMethods: Latent class analysis was used to characterise different smoking pattern among 361 third level students in an Irish university. The participants were enrolled in this cross-sectional study by inviting them to complete an online survey.Results: Three groups were identified: (1) Late-onset, Social smokers (n=88, 41.3%). (2) late-onset, light smokers (n = 74, 34.4%). (3) Early-onset, Nicotine addicts (n = 52, 24.3%). The predominantly female Late-onset, Social smokers has a low probability of regular use of tobacco, a low number of lifetime cigarettes smoked and a high probability (83.0%) of initiating smoking in their adulthood. Nearly 100% of them had neither of the parents as smokers. The predominantly male late-onset, light smokers exhibits similar characteristics with the female-dominated class 1 but has consumed more of cigarettes in the lifetime relative to class 1. 33.8% of class 2 smokers had both parents as smokers; 42.0% had mothers and 33.8% reported their father was a smoker. 64.6% of this class reported their parents to smoke in the home and 54.3% initiated smoking in adulthood. Class 3 (Early-onset, Nicotine addicts) dominated by males has a higher probability of regular tobacco use and has smoked the largest number of cigarette in their lifetime compared to classes 1 and 2. The majority (60.0%) of those in this group had initiated smoking as a teenager. 14.9% had both parents as smokers; 10.6% had mothers who smoke and 20.6% reported their father was a smoker. 23.7% of this class reported their parents to smoke in the home.Conclusion: This study reveals the cigarette smoking behaviours among students and can further inform interventions and strategies to achieving a tobacco-free Ireland.
Recreational Drug use and Risk of HIV Infection Among Young Men Who Have Sex with men: A Cross-Sectional Study in Tianjin, China
Authors: Li Changping , Yu Zeyang , Chen Yang , Zhang Honglu , Huang Huijie , Wang Chun , Peixoto Elissa , Yao Tingting , Zhang Tiantian , Song Desheng , Wang Xiaomeng , Yang Jie , Liu Yuanyuan , Yu Maohe , Cui Zhuang , Ma Jun
Published: February 2021

Background- Recreational drug use among young men who have sex with men (YMSM) was a public health issue of worldwide concern. Evidence had shown the relevance between recreational drug use and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This study aimed to investigate the current prevalence state of recreational drug use among YMSM in Tianjin, discern the characteristics of YMSM who used recreational drugs or not and examine the interaction effect of recreational drug use and unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) on HIV infection.Methods- In 2018, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Tianjin, China. The snowball sampling method was used to recruit YMSM. Participants were recruited from gay bars, gay bathhouses, social network sites (WeChat, QQ, gay chat website), gay apps and peer referrals. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data.Results- A total of 1075 YMSM met the eligibility criteria and were included in the study eventually. The overall HIV prevalence was 4.3% (46/1075). Of all the recreational drugs involved in this study (rush poppers, methamphetamine, capsule No.0), rush poppers (406/517,78.5%) were the most popular among YMSM in Tianjin. Compared with non-drug users, drug users were more likely to have first sex earlier, be bisexual, be male sex worker (MSW), have a higher education level, seek sex partners through physical venues, engage in UAI, have sexually transmitted infection (STI), and receive HIV testing. Moreover, recreational drug use and UAI were associated with the increased risk of HIV infection [adjusted OR:3.6 (95%CI: 1.7-7.6) and 4.9 (95%CI: 2.2-10.4), respectively]. There was additive interaction of recreational drug use and UAI on HIV infection [relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI): 6.949 (95%CI: 0.011‐13.887); attributable proportion due to interaction (AP): 0.809 (95%CI: 0.578‐1.039)].Conclusions- Recreational drug use was common and correlated with HIV infection among YMSM in Tianjin. There was an urgent need to build novel targeted HIV prevention strategies to discern and reduce recreational drug use among YMSM in China.
Spinometric analysis of patient affected by scoliosis, treated with acupressure
Authors: Palandri Sergio
Published: February 2021

Introduction Much has been written about how the Traditional Chinese Medicine Meridians (TCMs) are closely related to Myofascial Chains (MCs) and then, as a logic consequence, to the Posture. However, there are still few studies that operatively verify these concepts by performing acupressure treatments (like Shiatsu) on subjects groups, of which is performed a postural analysis, before and after.The aim of the present work is to promote these studies, starting from a pilot one and analyzing results thereof.Materials and Methods The study, intended as a case report, enrolled a single, 12 year-old, female subject affected by double curve, low degree scoliosis for just a clinic confirmation, for 10 consecutive modules spaced about a week (range 5-10 days) from each other and consisting of a postural analysis before and after an acupressure treatment (Shiatsu) without time gaps between analysis and treatment. The analysis was made with a DIERS Formetric 4D.Results While observing selected parameters relating their pre- and post-treatment values, is is possible to understand how the lumbar arrow (LA) is systemically reduced, the cervical arrow (CA) is progressively ameliorated, the Antero-Posterior Flexion (APF) and the Hemipelvis Torsion (HT) are progressively harmonized.After all the performed treatment, the subject refers the perception of his psycho-emotional state, better than the initial one, even though it was already good or very good.Discussion The series of treatments has shown his efficiency in the variation of morpho-structural parameters in the acute. Due to its configuration, the study didn't consider long term effects, an interesting aspect to be investigated dedicated studies with bigger sample size.Conclusions From an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary perspective, the stimulation of "tsubo" according to the Fascial Neuromodulation model can represent a treatment integrated with the manipulation of peripheral entries in the correction of postural-type morpho-structural alterations.
A structure-based mechanism for HEXIM displacement from 7SK
Authors: Pham Vincent , Gao Michael , Meagher Jennifer , Smith Janet , D'Souza Victoria
Published: February 2021

Productive transcriptional elongation of many cellular and viral mRNAs requires transcriptional factors to extract pTEFb from the 7SK snRNP by modulating the association between the HEXIM protein and the 7SK snRNA. Here we report the structure of the HEXIM arginine rich motif in complex with the apical stemloop-1 of 7SK (7SK-SL1apical) and detail how the HIV transcriptional regulator Tat from various subtypes overcome the structural constraints required to displace HEXIM. While the majority of interactions between 7SK and HEXIM and Tat are similar, critical differences exist that guide function. First, the conformational plasticity of 7SK enables the formation of three different base pair configurations at a critical remodeling site, which allows for the modulation required for HEXIM binding and its subsequent displacement by Tat. Furthermore, the specific sequence variations observed in various Tat subtypes all converge on remodeling 7SK at this region. Second, we show that HEXIM primes its own displacement by causing specific local destabilization upon binding — a feature that is then exploited by Tat to bind 7SK more efficiently. Overall, our study details the molecular environment presented by HEXIM and uncovers a destabilization-driven displacement strategy that increases the conformational sampling of 7SK-snRNP, which may allow diverse transcriptional factors to competitively regulate pTEFb.
ACTyourCHANGE Study Protocol. The Promotion of Healthy Lifestyle for Obese Patients with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy provided with A Modular Approach.
Authors: Usubini Anna Guerrini , Cattivelli Roberto , Giusti Emanuele , Riboni Francesco Vailati , Varallo Giorgia , Pietrabissa Giada , Manzoni Gian Mauro , Consoli Simone , Bastoni Ilaria , Granese Valentina , Volpi Clarissa , Villa Valentina , Caretti Annalisa , Bottacchi Michela , Castelnuovo Gianluca , Molinari Enrico
Published: February 2021

Background: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) resulted to be efficacious in promoting the core process of Psychological Flexibility, a key ability related to physical and psychological health outcomes. Despite evidence-based ACT protocols were applied successfully in different contexts, including the promotion of long-standing behavioral change, the impact of the single processes in the psychological flexibility model remains unclear. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the efficacy of a Focused-ACT intervention for the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle, by separating and evaluating the impact of single core processes targeted into a modular intervention on the maintenance of healthy lifestyle. Methods: An individually randomized group treatment trial will be conducted. 150 adult obese patients who are attending a four-week medically-based multidisciplinary rehabilitation of weight loss will be randomly allocated into three groups: Module Engage, Module Openness, and Module Awareness. At the beginning (Time 0) and at the end of the intervention (Time 1), at six months (Time2) and one year (Time 3) follow-up weight and height will be recorder and participants will complete the Psychological General Well Being Inventory(PGWBI), the Outcome Questionnaire-45.2 (OQ-45.2), the Brief Values Inventory (BVI), the Committed Action Questionnaire (CAQ), the Italian-Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire (I-CFQ), the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ II) and the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). Repeated measures 3 (conditions) x 4 (times) will be assessed to examine differences between three groups within four times on both general outcomes measure of weight, BMI, PGWBI and OQ-45.2, and FACT processes targeted during the interventions.Discussion: By providing additional evidence supporting the relevance of modular transdiagnostic interventions in clinical practice and the use of Process-Based Therapy, this study will contribute toclarify which mechanisms are involved in a generalizable lifestyle behavioral change intervention. Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Registration number: NCT04474509 Date: July, 4 2020 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04474509
Involving people affected by a rare condition in shaping future genomic research
Authors: Nunn Jack , Gwynne Kylie , Gray Sarah , Lacaze Paul
Published: February 2021

Background There is evidence that involving potential participants and the public in co-designing research can improve the quality of the study design, recruitment and acceptability of the research, but appropriate methodologies for doing this are not always clear. In this study we co-designed a way of involving people affected by a rare genomic disease in shaping future genomic research about the condition. The aim was to report the process, experiences and outcomes of involving people in genomic research in a standardised way, in order to inform future methods of involvement in research co-production. Method Participants were recruited from an online community hosted by an Australian-based rare disease charity and were over the age 18 years. Once people gave consent, we shared learning resources with participants and invited them to complete an online survey before joining a two-week facilitated online discussion, followed by a second online survey. We used the novel tool ‘Standardised Data on Initiatives - Alpha Version 0.1’ (STARDIT) to map preferences, plan involvement and report any outcomes from the process, with quantitative data analysed descriptively and qualitative data thematically analysed. Results Of the 26 people who gave consent and completed the initial survey, 15 participated in the online discussion and 12 completed the follow-up survey. STARDIT was used to report six outcomes from the process, including 60% of participants’ responses showing a change towards ‘widening’ their view of who should be involved in research to include more people. Outcomes also included an improved understanding of research and how to be involved. Participants enjoyed online discussions, found learning resources useful and asked to stay involved in the research process. The partner organisation reported that a similar online discussion will be used in future research prioritisation processes. Conclusion Involving people in co-designing the process improved the study design, ensuring it met the needs of participants. Whilst the study includes participants from only one disease group, using STARDIT allowed us to map people’s preferences and report the methods and outcomes from involving people, providing a way for learning from this case study to inform future research studies beyond the discipline of public health genomics.
Augmented efficacy of intermittent theta burst stimulation on the virtual reality-based cycling training for upper limb function in patients with stroke: a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Yu-Hsin , Chen Chia-Ling , Huang Ying-Zu , Chen Hsieh-Ching , Chen Chung-Yao , Wu Ching-Yi , Lin Keh-Chung
Published: February 2021

Background: Virtual reality and arm cycling have been reported as effective treatment to improve upper limb motor recovery in patients with stroke. Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) can increase ipsilesional cortical excitability, and has been increasingly used in patients with stroke. However, few studies examined the augmented effect of iTBS on neurorehabilitation program. In this study, we investigated the augmented effect of iTBS on virtual reality-based cycling training (VCT) for upper limb motor function in patients with stroke.Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 23 patients with stroke were recruited. Each patient received either 15 sessions of iTBS or sham stimulation in addition to VCT on the same day. Outcome measures were assessed before and after the intervention. Co-primary outcome measures for body function were Modified Ashworth Scale Upper Extremity (MAS-UE) and Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Extremity (FMA-UE). Secondary outcome measures for activity and participation were Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT), Box and Block Test (BBT) and Motor Activity Log (MAL), and Stroke Impact Scale (SIS). Paired t test was performed to evaluate the effectiveness after the intervention and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was conducted to compare the therapeutic effects between two groups.Results: At post-treatment, both groups showed significant improvement in FMA-UE and ARAT, while only the iTBS group demonstrated significant improvement in MAS-UE, BBT, NHPT, MAL and SIS. ANCOVA revealed that the iTBS group presented greater improvement than the sham group significantly in MAS-UE, NHPT and SIS. However, there were no significant differences in the changes of the FMA-UE, ARAT, BBT, and MAL between groups.Conclusions: Intermittent TBS showed augmented efficacy on VCT for reducing spasticity, improving manual dexterity, and increasing participation in daily life in stroke patients. This study provided an integrated innovative intervention, which may be a promising therapy to improve upper limb motor function recovery, especially manual dexterity, in stroke rehabilitation. However, this study has a small sample size, and thus a further larger-scale study is warranted to confirm the treatment efficacy.Trial registration: This trial was registered under ClinicalTrials.gov ID No. NCT03350087, retrospectively registered, on November 22, 2017.
Examination of referral source and retention among women in residential substance use disorder treatment: a prospective follow-up study
Authors: Rivera Dean , Dueker Donna , Amaro Hortensia
Published: February 2021

Background: Court-mandated substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, as compared to nonmandated treatment, has been associated with increased retention and completion. However, whether child protective services (CPS)-mandated women’s residential SUD treatment leads to improved treatment retention in comparison to criminal justice (CJ)-mandated and nonmandated treatment remains unclear. Purpose: This study compared the number of days retained in residential SUD treatment among three referral sources (CPS, CJ, and nonmandated), while also examining whether having a co-occurring mental health disorder or increased stress, depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptomology contributed to decreased retention. This study tested the hypothesis that women mandated by the CPS and CJ systems would have improved residential SUD treatment retention compared with nonmandated women. Methods: Multiple regression analyses were conducted on data for a diverse sample of 245 women (Hispanic: N = 141, Black: N = 50, White: N = 50) mandated or nonmandated (CJ: N = 114, CPS: N = 82, nonmandated: N = 49) into residential SUD treatment to determine each group’s treatment retention outcomes. Results: Women mandated to SUD residential treatment by the CPS system remained in treatment significantly longer ( p = .046), compared to women not mandated, representing a 34.4% increase in retention. Findings further revealed a corresponding 2.3% decrease in retention ( p = .048) for each one-unit increase in a patient’s stress score, whereas those with a co-occurring mental health diagnosis had a 43.6% decrease in SUD treatment retention ( p < .001). Conclusions: Policy and clinical considerations include (a) increasing case management support and wraparound services that meet the multiple service needs of women who are nonmandated to residential SUD treatment, and (b) incorporating a more nuanced treatment approach that manages mental health disorders and stress symptomology early in treatment when women are most vulnerable to relapse and treatment dropout. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02977988 (first posted November 30, 2016; last update posted October 7, 2019); U.S. NIH Grant/Contract: 5R01DA038648
Helmet CPAP to treat hypoxic pneumonia outside the ICU: an observational study during the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Coppadoro Andrea , Benini Annalisa , Fruscio Robert , Verga Luisa , Mazzola Paolo , Bellelli Giuseppe , Carbone Marco , Mulinacci Giacomo , Soria Alessandro , Noe' Beatrice , Beck Eduardo , Sciacca Riccardo Di , Ippolito Davide , Citerio Giuseppe , Valsecchi Grazia , Biondi Andrea , Pesci Alberto , Bonfanti Paolo , Gaudesi Davide , Bellani Giacomo , Foti Giuseppe
Published: February 2021

Background: Respiratory failure due to COVID-19 pneumonia is associated with high mortality and may overwhelm health care systems, due to the surge patients requiring advanced respiratory support. Shortage of intensive care unit (ICU) beds required many patients to be treated outside the ICU despite severe gas exchange impairment. Helmet is as effective interface to provide Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) non-invasively. We report data about the usefulness of helmet CPAP during pandemic, either as an effective treatment, a bridge to intubation or a rescue therapy for patients with care limitations (DNI).Methods: In this observational study we collected data regarding patients failing standard oxygen therapy (i.e. non-rebreathing mask) due to COVID-19 pneumonia treated with a free flow helmet CPAP system. Patients’ data were recorded before, at initiation of CPAP treatment and once a day, thereafter. CPAP failure was defined as a composite outcome of intubation or death.Results: A total of 306 patients were included; 42% were deemed as DNI. Helmet CPAP treatment was successful in 69% of the full-treatment and 28% of the DNI patients (P<0.001). With helmet CPAP, PaO2/FiO2 ratio doubled from about 100 to 200 mmHg (P<0.001); respiratory rate decreased from 28 [22-32] to 24 [20-29] breaths per minute, P<0.001). C-Reactive Protein, time to oxygen mask failure, age, PaO2/FiO2 during CPAP, number of comorbidities were independently associated with CPAP failure. Helmet CPAP was maintained for 6 [3-9] days, almost continuously during the first two days. None of the full treatment patients died before intubation in the wards.Conclusions: Helmet CPAP treatment is feasible for several days outside the ICU, despite persistent impairment in gas exchange. It was used, without escalating to intubation, in the majority of full treatment patients after standard oxygen therapy failed. DNI patients could benefit from helmet CPAP as rescue therapy to improve survival.Trial Registration: NCT04424992
Biomechanics of artificial pedicle fixation in a 3D-printed prosthesis after total en bloc spondylectomy: A finite element analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Xu Hanpeng , Han Ye , Wu Jincheng , Song Yang , Jiang Yuanyuan , Wang Jianzhong , Miao Jun
Published: February 2021

Background: This study compared the biomechanics of artificial pedicle fixation in spine reconstruction with a 3-dimensional (3D)-printed prosthesis after total en bloc spondylectomy (TES) by finite element analysis.Methods: A thoracolumbar (T10–L2) finite element model was developed and validated. Two models of T12 TES were established in combination with different fixation methods: Model A consisted of long-segment posterior fixation (T10/11, L1/2) + 3D-printed prosthesis; and Model B consisted of Model A + two artificial pedicle fixation screws. The models were evaluated with an applied of 7.5 N·m and axial force of 200 N. We recorded and analyzed the following: 1) stiffness of the two fixation systems; 2) hardware stress in the two fixation systems; and 3) stress on the endplate adjacent to the 3D-printed prosthesis.Results: The fixation strength of Model B was enhanced by the screws in the artificial pedicle, which was mainly manifested as an improvement in rotational stability. The stress transmission of the artificial pedicle fixation screws reduced the stress on the posterior rods and endplate adjacent to the 3D-printed prosthesis in all directions of motion, especially in rotation.Conclusions: After TES, the posterior long-segment fixation combined with the anterior 3D printed prosthesis could maintain postoperative spinal stability, but adding artificial pedicle fixation increased the stability of the fixation system and reduced the risk of prosthesis subsidence and instrumentation failure.
Hemicycliophora ahvasiensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Hemicycliophoridae), and data on a known species, from Iran
Authors: Azimi Sedighe , Abolafia Joaquín , Pedram Majid
Published: February 2021

Hemicycliophora ahvasiensis n. sp., recovered from the rhizospheric soil of date palm in Khuzestan province, southwest Iran, is described and illustrated based upon morphological, morphometric and molecular data. The new species is characterized by its sheath, closely fitting most of the body, cuticle with or without numerous irregular lines, sometimes appearing as blocks in distal body region. Lateral field without discrete longitudinal lines, but often with continuous broken striae or anastomoses. Continuous lip region with single annulus, slightly elevated labial disc, stylet with posteriorly sloping knobs. Vulva with or without slightly modified lips, spermatheca with sperm and tail conoid, symmetrically narrowing at distal region to form a narrow conical region. Morphologically, the new species looks similar to H. indica, H. labiata, H. siddiqii, H. tenuistriata and H. typica. The latter species appears more similar to the new species under light microscopy, but could be separated using the scanning electron microscopy and molecular data. The new species was also compared with H. epicharoides and H. dulli, two species with close phylogenetic affinities to it. The phylogenetic relationships of the new species were reconstructed and discussed using partial sequences of the D2-D3 expansion segments of large subunit, and internal transcribed spacer regions (LSU D2-D3 and ITS rDNA). Hemicycliophora conida, the second studied species, was recovered from north Iran and characterized by morphological and molecular data.
Affordable housing for internally displaced persons: The priorities for investment and development in Ukraine
Authors: Alekseyenko Lyudmyla , Tulai Oksana , Petrushenko Yuriy , Kuznietsov Andriy , Derkash Julia
Published: February 2021

The institution of home ownership provides for the functioning of affordable housing for low-income people and new groups in need of social protection, including the reintegration of migrants to new places of residence. The aim of the study is to substantiate the priorities of investments into affordable housing for internally displaced persons promoting their adaptation and social reintegration in the context of administrative-territorial decentralization.The study is based on use of empirical, economic and statistical methods, which in the process of correlation, regression and canonical analysis showed that many indicators that characterize the housing market are closely correlated with the scale and development level of administrative units in Ukraine. To characterize the state and investment attractiveness of the residential real estate market, a set of indicators was used in the modeling: population, the number of employed, household income, regional domestic product, volume of commissioned housing, construction investments, regional human development index, total housing stock, housing prices in the regions of Ukraine and Kyiv. The most significant parameter that affects the volume of housing construction is the amount of investments into per capita housing construction. The article also discusses the housing market situation, which differs in regions or some cities due to the significant differentiation of their development, which affects the ability to obtain affordable housing. The implementation of regional development programs should determine investment priorities of social protection, particularly the possibility of buy-out schemes through the mechanism of leasing of social housing by internally displaced persons.
Acknowledgment This research was funded by a grant from the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine “Reforming the lifelong learning system in Ukraine for the prevention of the labor emigration: a coopetition model of institutional partnership” (No. 0120U102001).
Social Media as a form of Digital Tool(s) and Academic Performance of University Students in Nigeria
Authors: Kayode Aderinsola Eunice
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this article is to access the use of social media as a form of digital tools on the academic performance of undergraduate students of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. The paper reviews the actual impact of the use of social media with student’s classroom learning. The descriptive research design was utilized. Two hundred (200) undergraduate students purposively selected from eight faculties. The paper reveals that a great number of students are addicted to the use of social media and frequency use of social networks in digitalization tool becomes an integral part of the students’ development which has resulted in improving students’ academic performance. In conclusion, the paper reveals that the use of social media is part of digital tools that shaping and influencing how students lean and interact with their studies and also, with e-communication with peers this help a student to collaborate and discuss issues related to their academic studies. Social media have a dual impact on student achievement, and it is necessary to approach adolescents' use of social networks with ultimate positive responsibility. With the outcome of the findings, this paper recommends that the government and educational planners should improve the leisure, information exchange among learners, therefore, academic performance can be maintained. The researcher recommends that social media should be used for educational purposes as well, Social Networking Sites should be expanded and new pages should be created to enhance academic activities and avoid setbacks in the students’ academic performance.
Digital Integration into the Nigerian Educational System: Challenges and Prospects
Authors: Irele Abigail Olubukola
Published: February 2021

In the last ten years, there have been conscious attempts by every nation to integrate digital tools into their educational system especially at the tertiary level. Nigeria is no exception. The policymakers in Nigeria at the federal and state levels have felt the need to integrate Information Communication Technology (ICT) in their educational policies. It is felt that in this globalized world the country must embrace digital technology to enhance support teaching and learning environment. It is the belief that in the present globalized world every nation should embrace digital technology to be competitive and also have knowledge-based society as well as information society or as Castells, (1996) has put it “Network Society” and also Perevozchikova, et.al. (2020). The COVID-19 pandemic has also made it imperative that countries should advance towards e-learning. The future of education is therefore intertwined with Information Communication Technologies (ICTs). The Nigerian government has realized that the new normal or post-COVID-19 pandemic environment has made the traditional method of teaching and learning outmoded. It is therefore in this regard that most policymakers in Nigeria are advocating an advance towards ICT hence there is what we can call paradigm-shift in terms of teaching and learning in Nigeria now. This paper discusses the Nigerian guidelines on digital education highlighting the challenges and the prospects of digital education. It concludes that digital education must be embraced because the post-COVID-19 pandemic has made it impossible to continue with the traditional mode of teaching/learning.
The Role of Internal Branding for Corporate Success. Employees Perspective from a Multinational Organization in Ghana
Authors: Cobblah Mary Akweley
Published: February 2021

The study examined the role of internal branding to understand how the practice was used as a strategic tool to empower and support employees’ building of brand supportive behaviors for corporate success. An inductive approach was adopted, and data was collected from twenty respondents via face-to-face semi-structured interviews. Purposive sampling was employed as this technique enabled the conscious engagement of targeted respondents (both senior and junior staff). The grounded theory approach was used in analyzing data collected. Study findings revealed that internal branding played both an enabler and a differentiator role. As an enabler, internal branding initiatives enhanced employees’ brand understanding, facilitated employees’ internalization of corporate values, and exhibition of brand-supportive behaviors. Additionally, the practice empowered them to act as brand ambassadors and inspired them to achieve desired goals. With regards to the differentiator role, internal branding efforts promoted the alignment of internal processes and culture with desired goals, which enhanced the identity, image, and reputation of the establishment. This suggests that internal branding practices contributes greatly to building strong brands as the practice helps provide the point of differentiation for the organization. The research approach adopted limits generalizability of the findings. It is suggested that future research consider a wider company or sector coverage and much larger sample size. The paper highlights the important role of internal branding initiatives for employees’ acquisition and display of brand supportive behaviors for sustained competitiveness and corporate success. It thus contributes to the limited empirical literature on internal branding in Africa.
Community Health Delivery System in Ituri Province the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Debaba Alfred Mawa
Published: February 2021

WHO reports in 2010 that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) private health sectors stepped to filling up health system delivery by lack of state health care provision? In DRC's state-building many NGOs and government partners interacted in multiple arenas with multiple stakeholders' health policies are presented is a need to conclude that a lot of improvement more efforts and resources are required (WHO, 2010). NGOs and governmental states share the common interest of providing health services, but their institutional interests vary. Though independent, health actors interact in a variety of ways to solve public health problems in the DRC. Through longstanding patterns of interactions regarding processes, state and non-state partners have developed a de facto networked health sector governance that accounts for the survival of the fragile health DRC context.
The coronary microcirculation in sepsis: not of micro-importance
Authors: Argirò Alessia , Olivotto Iacopo
Published: February 2021

[No abstract - showing first paragraph]The coronary arterial system consists of a continuous network of functionally distinct vessels of decreasing size. The epicardial arteries (>500 μm) have primarily a conductance function and, therefore, physiologically offer minimal resistance to flow. The microcirculation, including pre-arterioles (100 to 500 μm) and arterioles (<100 μm), on the other hand, is the main active determinant of resistance within the coronary tree, responsible for the metabolic regulation of regional blood flow to the myocardium.