bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for measles outbreak in Ataq and Habban districts, Shabwah governorate, Yemen, February to May 2018
Authors: Nassar Abdulkareem Ali Hussein , Al Amad Mohammed Abdullah , Qasim Mohammed , Dureab Fekri
Published: June 2021

Background

Recent conflict and war in Yemen lead to collapse of the health system, decrease of immunization coverage and spread of many outbreaks. On May 22, 2018, the surveillance officer in Shabwah governorate reported an increased number of suspected measles. On May 24, 2018, a team from Yemen-Field Epidemiology Training Program was sent to investigate. The aims were to describe the outbreak, determine the risk factors for measles infection and recommend control measures.

Methodology

A descriptive followed by case-control study design (1:2 ratio) were performed. National Measles Surveillance Program case definition and predesigned questionnaire were used to collect data from 73 cases and 146 controls. Attack rate (AR), adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated.Pvalue < 0.05 was considered as the cut point for significant. Epi info version 7.2 was used.

Results

A total of 73 suspected cases were found. Almost 53% were from Habban district, 63% were males and 56% were among age group < 5 years. The overall AR was 82/100,000 population. Measles was significantly associated with contact with case (aOR = 27.3, 95% CI:1.3–551.7), malnourished children aged 6–60 months (aOR = 24.9, 95% CI;1.9–329.6) and unvaccinated children (aOR = 17.2, 95% CI:2.9–100.7). The six collected blood samples found to be positive for measles IgM.

Conclusions

Measles outbreak in Ataq and Habban districts was confirmed. Contact with measles cases, malnutrition and un-vaccination were the potential contributing factors of measles outbreak in Shabwah governorate. An urgent vaccination campaign with health education interventions are highly recommended. Reactivation of the outreach immunization services and strengthening surveillance and response systems are top priority to take place at district and governorate levels.
The pregnancy-related anxiety characteristics in women with gestational diabetes mellitus: why should we care?
Authors: Fu Feng , Yan Ping , You Shuping , Mao Xinmin , Qiao Tingting , Fu Li , Wang Yanni , Dai Yali , Maimaiti Palida
Published: June 2021

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is very commonly-seen in clinical settings, and GDM patients may have higher levels of anxiety. It’s necessary to evaluate the anxiety level and potentially influencing factors in patients with GDM, to provide insights for the management of anxiety of GDM patients.

Methods

Patients with GDM treated in our hospital from May, 2018 to May, 2020 were included. We evaluated the characteristics of patients and the scores of pregnancy-related anxiety scale for anxiety level, vulnerable personality style questionnaire (VPSQ) for personality, general self-efficacy scale (GSES) for self-efficacy, social support rating scale (SSRS) for social support level. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the potential influencing factors of anxiety in GDM patients.

Results

A total of 386 GDM patients were included, the incidence of anxiety in patients with GDM was 59.07%. Anxiety was positively correlated with the susceptible personality (r = 0.604,p = 0.023), and it was negatively correlated with self-efficacy and social support (r = -0.586 and -0.598 respectively, allp < 0.05). The education level, monthly income, abnormal pregnancy (miscarriage, premature rupture of membranes) and cesarean section history and first pregnancy were the independent influencing factors for the anxiety in the patients with GDM (allp < 0.05).

Conclusions

The anxiety of GDM patients is very common, early care and interventions are warranted for those patients with abnormal pregnancy and cesarean section history, first pregnancy, lower education level, and less monthly income.
Identification of a tumor microenvironment-related seven-gene signature for predicting prognosis in bladder cancer
Authors: Wang Zhi , Tu Lei , Chen Minfeng , Tong Shiyu
Published: June 2021

Background

Accumulating evidences demonstrated tumor microenvironment (TME) of bladder cancer (BLCA) may play a pivotal role in modulating tumorigenesis, progression, and alteration of biological features. Currently we aimed to establish a prognostic model based on TME-related gene expression for guiding clinical management of BLCA.

Methods

We employed ESTIMATE algorithm to evaluate TME cell infiltration in BLCA. The RNA-Seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was used to screen out differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Underlying relationship between co-expression modules and TME was investigated via Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). COX regression and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) analysis were applied for screening prognostic hub gene and establishing a risk predictive model. BLCA specimens and adjacent tissues from patients were obtained from patients. Bladder cancer (T24, EJ-m3) and bladder uroepithelial cell line (SVHUC1) were used for genes validation. qRT-PCR was employed to validate genes mRNA level in tissues and cell lines.

Results

365 BLCA samples and 19 adjacent normal samples were selected for identifying DEGs. 2141 DEGs were identified and used to construct co-expression network. Four modules (magenta, brown, yellow, purple) were regarded as TME regulatory modules through WGCNA and GO analysis. Furthermore, seven hub genes (ACAP1, ADAMTS9, TAP1, IFIT3, FBN1, FSTL1, COL6A2) were screened out to establish a risk predictive model via COX and LASSO regression. Survival analysis and ROC curve analysis indicated our predictive model had good performance on evaluating patients prognosis in different subgroup of BLCA. qRT-PCR result showed upregulation of ACAP1, IFIT3, TAP1 and downregulation of ADAMTS9, COL6A2, FSTL1,FBN1 in BLCA specimens and cell lines.

Conclusions

Our study firstly integrated multiple TME-related genes to set up a risk predictive model. This model could accurately predict BLCA progression and prognosis, which offers clinical implication for risk stratification, immunotherapy drug screen and therapeutic decision.
Systematic review and narrative synthesis of suicide prevention in high-schools and universities: a research agenda for evidence-based practice
Authors: Breet Elsie , Matooane Matsie , Tomlinson Mark , Bantjes Jason
Published: June 2021

Background

Youth suicide prevention in high-schools and universities is a public health priority. Our aim was to propose a research agenda to advance evidence-based suicide prevention in high-schools and universities by synthesizing and critically reviewing the research focus and methodologies used in existing intervention studies.

Methods

Fourteen databases were systematically searched to identify studies which evaluate suicide prevention interventions delivered on high-school or university campuses, with before and after measures. Data from included studies (n = 43) were extracted to identify what, where, how and for whom interventions have been tested. Narrative synthesis was used to critically evaluate research focus and methodology. Study quality was assessed.

Results

Research has focused primarily on selective interventions, with less attention on indicated and universal interventions. Most evidence comes from North America and high-income countries. The target of interventions has been: non-fatal suicidal behaviour; confidence and ability of staff/students to intervene in a suicidal crisis; suicide-related knowledge and attitudes; and suicide-related stigma. No studies included suicide deaths as an outcome, evaluated eco-systemic interventions, explored how context influences implementation, used multisite study designs, or focused explicitly on LGBTQ+ youth. Two studies evaluated digital interventions. Quality of the majority of studies was compromised by lack of methodological rigour, small samples, and moderate/high risk of bias. Interventions often assume the existence of an external well-functioning referral pathway, which may not be true in low-resource settings.

Conclusion

To advance evidence-based suicide prevention in educational settings we need to: conduct more high-quality clinical and pragmatic trials; promote research in low- and middle-income countries; test targeted interventions for vulnerable populations (like LGBTQ+ youth), evaluate interventions where death by suicide is the primary outcome; include translational studies and use implementation science to promote intervention uptake; evaluate the potential use of digital and eco-systemic interventions; and conduct multisite studies in diverse cultural settings.
Weight-related behaviors and weight loss maintenance: a cross-sectional study in Cyprus
Authors: Koutras Yiannis , Chrysostomou S. , Giannakou K. , Yannakoulia M.
Published: June 2021

Background

This study examined the differences between maintainers and regainers regarding obesity related eating behaviors. A secondary objective was to develop an eating behavior index predicting the likelihood of successful weight loss maintenance.

Methods

The current cross-sectional evaluation conducted in Cyprus was part of the MedWeight (Greek) study. Eligible for participation were Cypriot (maintainers = 145; regainers = 87) adult men and women who reported being at least overweight (BMI ≥25 kg/m2) and experienced an intentional weight loss of ≥10% of their maximum lifetime weight, at least 1 year before participation. Among other assessments, weight-related behaviors were evaluated through Weight-Related Behaviors Index (WRBI).

Results

Statistically significant differences between the two groups were observed regarding meals per day (P = 0.008), frequency of eating home cooked meals (P = 0.004) and WRBI total score (P = 0.022). Results from logistic regression models indicated that the odds of maintaining weight loss increase at 30% (Model 1: P < 0.05, Odds ratio 1.306, 1.095–1.556 95% C.I., Model 2: P < 0.05, OR 1.308, 1.097–1.560 95% C.I.) and at 38% after adjusting for physical activity (Model 3: P < 0.05, OR 1.377, 1.114–1.701 95% C.I..) for each point scored in WRBI total score.

Conclusions

Eating more frequently home cooked meals and less eating away from home meals may be beneficially associated with weight loss maintenance. WRBI seems to be a useful tool when dealing with patients who have previously lost significant weight.
Sociodemographic factors associated with acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine and clinical trials in Uganda: a cross-sectional study in western Uganda
Authors: Echoru Isaac , Ajambo Patricia Decanar , Keirania Emmanuel , Bukenya Edmund E. M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Health experts agree that widespread use of safe and effective vaccines will rapidly contain the COVID-19 pandemic. The big question is whether these vaccines can easily be accepted by their end-users. Our study aimed at determining sociodemographic factors associated with acceptance of vaccines and clinical trials of COVID-19 in western Uganda.

Method

A simplified snowball sampling technique was used to select 1067 respondents of 18–70 years in western Uganda using an online questionnaire from July to September 2020. Vaccine acceptability and risk perception were assessed using odds ratio at 95% confidence interval in R software version 3.6.3.

Results

There were 1067 participants in the study. The majority were males (73.2%) and age group 31–40 years (32.6%). The acceptance rate for COVID-19 vaccination was (53.6%; 572/1067) with those aged 18–20 years, males, elites at tertiary level of education (degree or diploma), students, Muslims, married, non-salary earners and rural dwellers having better odds and likeliness to accept vaccination.

Only 44.6% (476/1067) showed interest in clinical trials among which; males, primary school leavers, students, Christians, un-married, respondents who didn’t earn any salary and rural dwellers had better odds and likelihood to participate in clinical trials.

Conclusion

There was a low level of vaccine acceptance and clinical trial interest in western Uganda. Minority groups in the study i.e., Muslims, students, primary school leavers, un-married rural dwellers among others showed more interest in vaccination and clinical trials. We anticipated fears in the larger part of this community that health experts need to address through reassurance of the community that vaccines are tested and that they are safe and important if we are to rapidly contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
GPC3 affects the prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma and lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ning Jing , Jiang Shenyi , Li Xiaoxi , Wang Yang , Deng Xuhong , Zhang Zhiqiang , He Lijie , Wang Daqing , Jiang Youhong
Published: June 2021

Background

Glypican 3 (GPC3) is a heparin sulphate proteoglycan whose expression is associated with several malignancies. However, its expression in non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) is limited and ambiguous. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the expression of GPC3 in NSCLC and develop a risk-score model for predicting the prognosis of NSCLC.

Methods

The gene expression profiles of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) were downloaded from the UCSC Xena database. Using the limma package, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between different comparison groups were analysed and the differential expression of GPC3 was calculated. A functional enrichment analysis was conducted for GPC3-associated genes using the DAVID tool. For the GPC3-associated genes shared by the four comparison groups, a protein–protein interaction network was built using the Cytoscape software. After conducting a survival analysis and a Cox regression analysis, the genes found to be significantly correlated with prognosis were selected to construct a risk-score model. Besides, the gene and protein levels of GPC3 were examined by quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) in LUSC tissues and paracancer tissues.

Results

The differential expression of GPC3 was significant (adjusted P < 0.05) in the NSCLC vs. normal, LUAD vs. normal, LUSC versus normal, and LUAD versus. LUSC comparison groups. GPC3 directly interacted with SERPINA1, MFI2, and FOXM1. Moreover, GPC3 expression was significantly correlated with pathologic N, pathologic T, gender, and tumour stage in LUAD samples. Finally, the risk-score model (involving MFI2, FOXM1, and GPC3) for LUAD and that (involving SERPINA1 and FOXM1) for LUSC were established separately. The qRT-PCR result showed that GPC3 expression was much higher in the LUSC tissues than that in the normal group. The IHC results further showed that GPC3 is highly expressed in LUSC tissues, but low in paracancer tissues.

Conclusion

The three-gene risk-score model for LUAD and the two-gene risk-score model for LUSC might be valuable in improving the prognosis of these carcinomas.
Multiple facial candidal abscesses after self-administered acupuncture in a patient with undiagnosed diabetes mellitus: a case report
Authors: Sung Jae Yun , Kim Ju Mi , Lee Jong Uk , Lee Yeon Hee , Lee Sung Bok
Published: June 2021

Background

Facial abscess caused by Candida albicans infection is a rare condition even in immunocompromised patients, and only a few cases have been reported. To our knowledge, this is the first case of multiple facial candidal abscesses caused by self-administered acupuncture in an undiagnosed diabetes mellitus patient.

Case presentation

A 57-year-old woman who had self-acupuncture treatment 2 weeks previously, presented with a 1-week history of progressive left eyelid swelling, erythema, and pain. Despite the antibiotic treatment, the lesion progressed. Surgical incision and drainage was performed and Candida albicans was isolated from the obtained pus culture. The patient was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus based on a random serum glucose level of 350 mg/dl and 9.2% HbA1c. The abscess resolved after seven incision and drainage cycles and 4 weeks of intravenous fluconazole treatment with an appropriate control of diabetes mellitus.

Conclusion

Unusual organisms and underlying immunocompromised condition should be suspected in cases of recurrent abscess showing an inadequate response to antibiotic treatment.
A guide for evaluation of online learning in medical education: a qualitative reflective analysis
Authors: Wasfy Nourhan F. , Abouzeid Enjy , Nasser Asmaa Abdel , Ahmed Samar A. , Youssry Ilham , Hegazy Nagwa N. , Shehata Mohamed Hany K. , Kamal Doaa , Atwa Hani
Published: June 2021

Background

With the strike of Covid-19, an unprecedented rapid shift to remote learning happened worldwide with a paradigm shift to online learning from an institutional adjuvant luxury package and learner choice into a forced solo choice. This raises the question of quality assurance. While some groups have already established standards for online courses, teaching and programs yet very little information is included on methodology of their development and very little emphasis is placed on the online learning experience. Nevertheless, no work has been done specifically for medical education institutions.

Aim

To develop a set of descriptors for best practice in online learning in medical education utilizing existing expertise and needs.

Methods

This work utilizes a qualitative multistage approach to identify the descriptors of best practice in online learning starting with a question guided focus group, thematic analysis, Delphi technique and an expert consensus session done simultaneously for triangulation. This was done involving 32 institution in 19 countries.

Results

This materialized into the development of a set of standards, indicators, and development of a checklist for each standard area. The standard areas identified were organizational capacity, educational effectiveness, and human resources each of which listed a number of standards. Expert consensus sessions identified the need for qualification of data and thus the development of indicators for best practice.

Conclusion

Standards are needed for online learning experience and their development and redesign is situational and needs to be enhanced methodologically in axes that are pertaining to the needs of the education community. Taking such axes into consideration by educators and institutions will lead to planning and implementing successful online learning activities, while taking them into consideration by the evaluators will help them conduct comprehensive audits and provide stakeholders with highly informative evaluation reports.
A survey of midwifery graduates’ opinions about midwifery education in Iran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Toosi Monireh , Modarres Maryam , Amini Mitra , Geranmayeh Mehrnaz
Published: June 2021

Background

Attaining high-quality education requires continuous evaluation and revision of the curriculum. The view of the graduate students can provide valuable insight into the necessary evaluations and revisions. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the opinions of midwifery graduates about midwifery education in Iran

Methods

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study and the research data were collected through a census sampling procedure from all (82) midwifery graduates of the Nursing and Midwifery School of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences between 2018 and 2020. The data collection instrument was a validated researcher-made questionnaire derived from the Graduation Questionnaire (GQ) developed by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). The data were then analyzed using SPSS 22.

Results

In this study, about 62% of the graduates were satisfied with the quality of the midwifery education they had received during the four-year program. Moreover, 61% of the graduates maintained that theoretical courses were well-integrated with the clinical experience they needed. The quality of the internships in different wards and departments was also evaluated from the viewpoints of the graduates, and the results indicated that they were relatively satisfied with their internship experiences. However, only 40% of the graduates were satisfied with the quality of their clinical evaluation, since they faced the most significant challenges in the clinical and maternity wards (47%) with the midwifery staff and gynecology residents and found the quality of facilities in the clinical program to be lacking. According to the participants, the quality of teaching was not good for some courses such as biochemistry and microbiology.

Conclusion

It seems that the midwifery curriculum needs to be constantly revised, aiming to improve student satisfaction with their midwifery education. Some effective measures in this regard are employing experienced professors, developing cooperation between midwifery instructors and clinical departments, and trying to improve the educational environment. Attention to the improvement of facilities and equipment and agreement between the content of the theoretical education and practical topics are also recommended to improve the quality of midwifery education.
In vitro delivery efficiencies of nebulizers for different breathing patterns
Authors: Park Hyun Mok , Chang Kyung Hwa , Moon Sang-Hyub , Park Bong Joo , Yoo Sun Kook , Nam Ki Chang
Published: June 2021

Background

Nebulizers are medical devices that deliver aerosolized medication directly to lungs to treat a variety of respiratory diseases. However, breathing patterns, respiration rates, airway diameters, and amounts of drugs delivered by nebulizers may be respiratory disease dependent.

Method

In this study, we developed a respiratory simulator consisting of an airway model, an artificial lung, a flow sensor, and an aerosol collecting filter. Various breathing patterns were generated using a linear actuator and an air cylinder. We tested six home nebulizers (jet (2), static (2), and vibrating mesh nebulizers (2)). Nebulizers were evaluated under two conditions, that is, for the duration of nebulization and at a constant output 1.3 mL using four breathing patterns, namely, the breathing pattern specified in ISO 27427:2013, normal adult, asthmatic, and COPD.

Results

One of the vibrating mesh nebulizers had the highest dose delivery efficiency. The drug delivery efficiencies of nebulizers were found to depend on breathing patterns.

Conclusion

We suggest a quantitative drug delivery efficiency evaluation method and calculation parameters that include considerations of constant outputs and residual volumes. The study shows output rates and breathing patterns should be considered when the drug delivery efficiencies of nebulizers are evaluated.
Prenatal exposure to consumer product chemical mixtures and size for gestational age at delivery
Authors: Bommarito P. A. , Welch B. M. , Keil A. P. , Baker G. P. , Cantonwine D. E. , McElrath T. F. , Ferguson K. K.
Published: June 2021

Background

While fetal growth is a tightly regulated process, it is sensitive to environmental exposures that occur during pregnancy. Many commonly used consumer products contain chemicals that can disturb processes underlying fetal growth. However, mixtures of these chemicals have been minimally examined. We investigated associations between prenatal exposure to 33 consumer product chemicals (nine organophosphate ester flame retardant [OPE] metabolites, 12 phthalate metabolites, and 12 phenols) and the odds of small- or large-for-gestational age (SGA and LGA) births.

Methods

This case-control study was comprised of SGA (N = 31), LGA (N = 28), and appropriate for gestational age control (N = 31) births selected from the larger LIFECODES cohort. Biomarkers of exposure to consumer product chemicals were quantified in maternal urine collected from up to three study visits during pregnancy. In a single-pollutant approach, odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of SGA and LGA associated with an interquartile range (IQR)-increase in exposure biomarkers were estimated using multinomial logistic regression. In a multi-pollutant approach, quantile g-computation was used to jointly estimate the OR (95% CI) of SGA and LGA per simultaneous one quartile-change in all biomarkers belonging to each chemical class.

Results

Among the 33 biomarkers analyzed, 20 were detected in at least 50% of the participants. After adjusting for potential confounders, we observed reduced odds of LGA in association with higher urinary concentrations of several exposure biomarkers. For example, an IQR-increase in the OPE metabolite, diphenyl phosphate, was associated with lower odds of LGA (OR: 0.40 [95% CI: 0.18, 0.87]). Using quantile g-computation, we estimated lower odds of an LGA birth for higher OPE metabolite concentrations (OR: 0.49 [95% CI: 0.27, 0.89]) and phthalate metabolite concentrations (OR: 0.23 [95% CI: 0.07, 0.73]). Associations between consumer product chemicals and SGA were largely null.

Conclusions

Joint exposure to OPEs and phthalates was associated with lower odds of delivering LGA. Associations with LGA could indicate a specific impact of these exposures on the high end of the birth weight spectrum. Future work to understand this nuance in the associations between consumer product chemical mixtures and fetal growth is warranted.
Estimated effects of the implementation of the Mexican warning labels regulation on the use of health and nutrition claims on packaged foods
Authors: Cruz-Casarrubias Carlos , Tolentino-Mayo Lizbeth , Vandevijvere Stefanie , Barquera Simón
Published: June 2021

Background

The use of health and nutrition claims on front-of-pack labels may impact consumers’ food choices; therefore, many countries have established regulations to avoid misinformation. This study describes the prevalence of health and nutrition claims on the front-of-pack of food products in retail stores in Mexico and estimate the potential effects of the Official Mexican Standards 051 (new regulation that includes specifications for implementing warning labels and other packaging elements such as health and nutrition claims on less healthy foods) on the prevalence of these claims.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study in which health and nutrition claims, nutrition information panels, and the list of ingredients of all foods and beverages available in the main retail stores in Mexico City were collected. The products were grouped by level of processing according to the NOVA food system classification. Claims were classified using the internationally harmonized INFORMAS taxonomy. According to the criteria of the new Mexican front-of-pack labelling regulation, the effect on the reduction on the prevalence of health and nutrition claims was estimated by type of food and by energy and nutrients of concern thresholds.

Results

Of 17,264 products, 33.8% displayed nutrition claims and 3.4% health claims. In total, 80.8% of all products in the Mexican market were classified as “less healthy”; 48.2% of products had excess calories, 44.6% had excess sodium, and 40.7% excess free sugars. The new regulation would prevent 39.4% of products with claims from displaying health and nutrition claims (P < 0.001); the largest reduction is observed for ultra-processed foods (51.1%, P < 0.001). The regulation thresholds that resulted in the largest reduction of claims were calories (OR 0.62, P < 0.001) and non-sugar sweeteners (OR 0.54, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The new Mexican front-of-pack labelling regulation will prevent most processed and ultra-processed foods from displaying health and nutrition claims and will potentially improve information on packaging for consumers.
Extrachromosomal circular DNA: a new potential role in cancer progression
Authors: Wang Tianyi , Zhang Haijian , Zhou Youlang , Shi Jiahai
Published: June 2021

Extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) is considered a circular DNA molecule that exists widely in nature and is independent of conventional chromosomes. eccDNA can be divided into small polydispersed circular DNA (spcDNA), telomeric circles (t-circles), microDNA, and extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) according to its size and sequence. Multiple studies have shown that eccDNA is the product of genomic instability, has rich and important biological functions, and is involved in the occurrence of many diseases, including cancer. In this review, we focus on the discovery history, formation process, characteristics, and physiological functions of eccDNAs; the potential functions of various eccDNAs in human cancer; and the research methods employed to study eccDNA.
EEG hyperscanning in motor rehabilitation: a position paper
Authors: Short Matthew R. , Hernandez-Pavon Julio C. , Jones Alyssa , Pons Jose L.
Published: June 2021

Studying the human brain during interpersonal interaction allows us to answer many questions related to motor control and cognition. For instance, what happens in the brain when two people walking side by side begin to change their gait and match cadences? Adapted from the neuroimaging techniques used in single-brain measurements, hyperscanning (HS) is a technique used to measure brain activity from two or more individuals simultaneously. Thus far, HS has primarily focused on healthy participants during social interactions in order to characterize inter-brain dynamics. Here, we advocate for expanding the use of this electroencephalography hyperscanning (EEG-HS) technique to rehabilitation paradigms in individuals with neurological diagnoses, namely stroke, spinal cord injury (SCI), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI). We claim that EEG-HS in patient populations with impaired motor function is particularly relevant and could provide additional insight on neural dynamics, optimizing rehabilitation strategies for each individual patient. In addition, we discuss future technologies related to EEG-HS that could be developed for use in the clinic as well as technical limitations to be considered in these proposed settings.
Stress hormone level and the welfare of captive European bison (Bison bonasus): the effects of visitor pressure and the social structure of herds
Authors: Klich Daniel , Łopucki Rafał , Gałązka Marta , Ścibior Agnieszka , Gołębiowska Dorota , Brzezińska Rita , Kruszewski Bartosz , Kaleta Tadeusz , Olech Wanda
Published: June 2021

Background

Captive European bison (Bison bonasus) play an active role in conservation measures for this species; this includes education, which may conflict with these animals’ welfare. The effect of the presence of visitors on the welfare of captive animals can be negative, positive or neutral. However, the response of a given species to visitors is difficult to predict, since even closely related species display varying levels of tolerance to captivity. The aim of the study was to compare immunoreactive fecal cortisol levels (regarded as an indicator of the level of physiological stress) in groups of captive European bison that differed in terms of their social structure and the level of visitor pressure. The second aim was to determine if there was a correlation between intestinal parasitic burden and immunoreactive fecal cortisol levels.

Results

Immunoreactive fecal cortisol levels were not influenced by sex or age. However, study site and the interaction between study site and visitor pressure were statistically significant. European bison in one enclosure presented higher levels of immunoreactive fecal cortisol on weekdays than at weekends. In the other two study sites, the levels did not differ between weekdays and weekends. No correlation was found between parasitological infestation and immunoreactive fecal cortisol levels.

Conclusions

Measurement of fecal cortisol metabolites could be a valuable method for further research into the welfare of European bison in captivity. More subtle factors such as individual animal characteristics, feeding systems, and the arrangement of enclosures can be of great importance in terms of the effect of visitors on animals. The results of this study can be used in guidelines for the management of European bison populations.
Resveratrol and its derivative pterostilbene ameliorate intestine injury in intrauterine growth-retarded weanling piglets by modulating redox status and gut microbiota
Authors: Chen Yanan , Zhang Hao , Chen Yueping , Jia Peilu , Ji Shuli , Zhang Yuying , Wang Tian
Published: June 2021

Background

Intestinal disorder is an important factor contributing to growth lag and high rates of morbidity and mortality of piglets with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Resveratrol (RSV) and its derivative pterostilbene (PT) are natural stilbenes possessing various bioactivities, such as antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. This study compared the protective potential of RSV and PT on the intestinal redox status and gut microbiota in weanling piglets with IUGR.

Methods

Eighteen male piglets of normal body weight (NBW) and 54 same-sex IUGR piglets were chosen according to their birth and weaning weights. The NBW piglets accepted a basal diet, while the IUGR piglets were allotted to one of three groups according to their body weight at weaning and received a basal diet, an RSV-supplemented diet (300 mg/kg), or a PT-supplemented diet (300 mg/kg), respectively.

Results

Compared with IUGR piglets, both RSV and PT improved the IUGR-associated decrease in jejunal villus height and increases in plasma diamine oxidase activity and D-lactate level and jejunal apoptosis of piglets (P < 0.05). Administering RSV and PT also enhanced jejunal superoxide dismutase activity and the mRNA and protein expression of superoxide dismutase 2 of IUGR piglets by promoting nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) nuclear translocation (P < 0.05). Comparatively, PT was more effective than RSV in elevating the villus height/crypt depth ratio and occludin mRNA and protein levels in the jejunum of IUGR piglets (P < 0.05). PT was also superior to RSV in increasing Nrf2 nuclear translocation and inhibiting malondialdehyde accumulation in the jejunum of IUGR piglets (P < 0.05). Additionally, RSV modulated the composition of cecal microbiota of IUGR piglets, as evidenced by increasing the prevalence of the phylum Bacteroidetes and the genera Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, and Parabacteroides and inhibiting the growth of the phylum Proteobacteria and its genera Escherichia and Actinobacillus (P < 0.05). Moreover, RSV significantly increased the butyrate concentration in the cecum of IUGR piglets (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

PT is more potent than RSV to prevent intestinal oxidative stress, while RSV has a stronger capacity to regulate gut microbiota compared to PT.
Schema modes and their associations with emotion regulation, mindfulness, and self-compassion among patients with personality disorders
Authors: Salgó Ella , Bajzát Bettina , Unoka Zsolt
Published: June 2021

Background

The current study's goal was to examine the multivariate patterns of associations between schema modes and emotion regulation mechanisms in personality disorders. Schema modes are either integrated or dissociative states of mind, including intense emotional states, efforts to regulate emotions, or self-reflective evaluative thought processes. Exploring the multivariate patterns of a shared relationship between schema modes and emotion regulation strategies may lead to a better understanding of their associations and a deeper understanding of the latent personality profiles that organize their associations in a mixed personality disorder sample.

Methods

Patients who have personality disorders (N = 263) filled out five different self-report questionnaires, out of which four measured adaptive and maladaptive emotion-regulation strategies (Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, Difficulty of Emotion Regulation Scale, Five Factor Mindfulness Questionnaire, Self-Compassion Scale), and the fifth one assessed schema modes (Schema Mode Inventory). We conducted canonical correlation analysis in order to measure the multivariate patterns of associations between the 26 emotion regulation and the 14 schema mode subscales.

Results

We found strong multivariate associations between schema modes and emotion regulation strategies. Collectively, the full model based on all canonical variate pairs was statistically significant using the Wilks’s Λ = .01 criterion, F (364,2804.4) = 3.5, p < .001. The first two canonical variate pairs yielded interpretable squared canonical correlation (Rc2) effect sizes of 74.7% and 55.8%, respectively. The first canonical variate pair represents a general personality pathology variable with a stronger weight on internalization than externalization, and bipolarity in terms of adaptive vs. non-adaptive characteristics. We labeled this variate pair "Adaptive/Non-Adaptive." The second canonical variate pair, labeled "Externalizing", represents externalizing schema modes and emotion regulation strategies.

Conclusion

Using a multivariate approach (CCA), we identified two independent patterns of multivariate associations between maladaptive schema modes and emotion regulation strategies. The Adaptive/Non-Adaptive general personality pathology profile and the Externalizing personality pathology profile may lead to a deeper understanding of personality disorders and help psychotherapists in their conceptualization in order to design the most appropriate interventions.
A multi-analytical study of historical coated plaster surfaces: the examination of a nineteenth-century V&A cast of a tombstone
Authors: Risdonne Valentina , Hubbard Charlotte , Puisto Johanna , Theodorakopoulos Charis
Published: June 2021

A multi-analytical study was designed to characterise historical coated plaster surfaces. The method was applied to investigate the surface coatings of the nineteenth-century plaster cast of the tombstone of the Presbyter Bruno that belongs to the Victoria and Albert Museum collection. At first, selected samples of the object were examined with Visible Light Reflectance and Ultra-Violet Fluorescence Optical Microscopy (VLR- and UVf-OM respectively) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) demonstrating a consistent stratigraphy featuring a bulk, an interface and an uppermost layer. The latter layer appeared to consist of an aged coating and dirt. Overpainted and repaired areas of the object generated samples that had additional layers on top of the aforementioned stratigraphy. A layer that seemed to be an additional surface varnish or a coating that had not been absorbed to the bulk has been observed in a couple of samples. Elemental characterization was carried out with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and further analyses were performed with X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy with focal plane array (FPA) imaging which confirmed that the bulk of the object is made of gypsum plaster containing mostly silicate and carbonate inclusions. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and pyrolysis-GC/MS with extraction methods based on n-propanol followed by pentafluoropropionic anhydride (PFPA), tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) and 3-trifluoromethylphenyltrimethylammonium hydroxide (m-TFPTAH) were performed to detect organic media. The results suggest that the organic medium used for the surface coating is a diterpenic resin that contained silicon, aluminium and traces of other inorganic elements. The organic medium of overpainted areas was based on alkyd resins and the in-paints were characterised as a blend of silicon and barium at varied concentrations. This multi-analytical approach can generate a better understanding of manufacturing, component materials and conservation issues of coated plaster objects.
High food insecurity in Latinx families and associated COVID-19 infection in the Greater Bay Area, California
Authors: Escobar Milagro , Mendez Andrea DeCastro , Encinas Maria Romero , Villagomez Sofia , Wojcicki Janet M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Food insecurity impacts nearly one-in-four Latinx households in the United States and has been exacerbated by the novel coronavirus or COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We examined the impact of COVID-19 on household and child food security in three preexisting, longitudinal, Latinx urban cohorts in the San Francisco Bay Area (N = 375 households, 1875 individuals). Households were initially recruited during pregnancy and postpartum at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital (ZSFG) and UCSF Benioff prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. For this COVID-19 sub-study, participants responded to a 15-min telephonic interview. Participants answered 18 questions from the US Food Security Food Module (US HFSSM) and questions on types of food consumption, housing and employment status, and history of COVID-19 infection as per community or hospital-based testing. Food security and insecurity levels were compared with prior year metrics.

Results

We found low levels of household food security in Latinx families (by cohort: 29.2%; 34.2%; 60.0%) and child food security (56.9%, 54.1%, 78.0%) with differences between cohorts explained by self-reported levels of education and employment status. Food security levels were much lower than those reported previously in two cohorts where data had been recorded from prior years. Reported history of COVID-19 infection in households was 4.8% (95% Confidence Interval (CI); 1.5–14.3%); 7.2% (95%CI, 3.6–13.9%) and 3.5% (95%CI, 1.7–7.2%) by cohort and was associated with food insecurity in the two larger cohorts (p = 0.03; p = 0.01 respectively).

Conclusions

Latinx families in the Bay Area with children are experiencing a sharp rise in food insecurity levels during the COVID-19 epidemic. Food insecurity, similar to other indices of poverty, is associated with increased risk for COVID-19 infection. Comprehensive interventions are needed to address food insecurity in Latinx populations and further studies are needed to better assess independent associations between household food insecurity, poor nutritional health and risk of COVID-19 infection.
A note on calculating expected shortfall for discrete time stochastic volatility models
Authors: Grabchak Michael , Christou Eliana
Published: June 2021

In this paper we consider the problem of estimating expected shortfall (ES) for discrete time stochastic volatility (SV) models. Specifically, we develop Monte Carlo methods to evaluate ES for a variety of commonly used SV models. This includes both models where the innovations are independent of the volatility and where there is dependence. This dependence aims to capture the well-known leverage effect. The performance of our Monte Carlo methods is analyzed through simulations and empirical analyses of four major US indices.
Comparison of the early cardiac electromechanical remodeling following transcatheter and surgical secundum atrial septal defect closure in adults
Authors: Mansour Amr , Gamal Noha M. , Alaa Nady M. , Demitry Salwa R. , Shams-Eddin H. , El-maghraby Khaled M.
Published: June 2021

Background

Secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) closure leads to electrical and mechanical remodeling that occurs early after shunt disappearance. The relationship between electromechanical remodeling using electrocardiogram (ECG) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) after percutaneous and surgical closure has not yet been recorded in prospective studies.

Objective

We thought to study right atrium (RA) and right ventricle (RV) changes by CMR 3 months after transcatheter and surgical closure and their comparison with electrical remodeling by ECG.

Results

We prospectively evaluated 30 consecutive adult patients with isolated secundum ASD who were referred for (transcatheter and surgical) ASD closure.

There was significant reduction in all of the electrical parameters within the same group as compared to the baseline values, except P wave dispersion (Pd). (P max was 97.33 ± 16.67 (pre closure) to 76 ± 15.49 (post closure) in the device group and 97.33 ± 12.79 (preclosure) to 73.33 ± 16.32 (post closure) in the surgical group, QRS complex was 104 ± 18.82 (preclosure) to 80 ± 18.51 (post closure) in the device group and 106.67 ± 14.47 (preclosure) to 86.67 ± 17.99 (post closure) in the surgical group. QTc maximum was 478.53 ± 36.79 (preclosure) to 412.53 ± 38.03 (post closure) in the device group and 470.53 ± 65.70 (preclosure) to 405.93 ± 63.08 (post closure) in the surgical group, and QTc dispersion was 70.33 ± 24.04 (preclosure) to 60.26 ± 28.56 (post closure) in the device group and 80.73 ± 30.38 (preclosure) to 60.27 ± 28.57 (post closure) in the surgical group).There was no significant difference between two groups indicating that transcatheter and surgical closure had led to equivalent value of electrical remodeling.

In CMR study, we measured RA maximal volume and right ventricle end diastolic volume (RVEDV), RA maximal volume decreased significantly as compared to the base line values post closure in both groups (P value < 0.001). The reduction in RA max volume was more in the transcatheter closure group; however, this difference was not statistically significant when compared with the surgical arm (P value = 0.5).RVEDV decreased significantly in both groups as compared to the baseline values (P value < 0.001). Transcatheter closure resulted in more significant reduction in the RVEDV than the surgical closure (P value = 0.03).

Conclusion

Our study showed early significant electromechanical reverse remodeling in most of the study parameters from the baseline values after ASD closure. We found no significant differences in all of the electrical and RA mechanical remodeling parameters with significantly better mechanical remodeling of RV in the device group.
Schizophrenia across the world: outcome and recovery
Authors: Janca Aleksandar , Balaratnasingam Sivasankaran
Published: June 2021

The International Pilot Study of Schizophrenia (IPSS) was a seminal, ground-breaking study that revealed important information regarding schizophrenia on a global scale. Perhaps the most interesting and controversial finding was that for all outcome variables considered, patients suffering from schizophrenia in Nigeria and India (‘developing countries’) tended to ‘recover’ better than patients in the other six sites. However, in recent times, this finding has been repeatedly challenged. The renewed debate led to a vigorous rebuttal by some of the original IPSS study authors. In an increasingly globalised world, the IPSS stands as a reminder of the importance of the cultural determinants of recovery from schizophrenia.
The global spread of clinical trials
Authors: Skuse David
Published: June 2021

There has been considerable publicity recently in the UK concerning the threatened contraction of the country's pharmaceutical industry. The UK currently has the third highest share of global pharmaceutical research and development expenditure (after the USA and Japan), but the costs of conducting research in the UK are rising.