bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of EMDR and TF-CBT in Reducing Trauma Symptoms and Externalizing Behavior Problems in Adolescents
Authors: Hoogsteder Larissa M. , ten Thije Lotte , Schippers Eveline E. , Stams Geert Jan J. M.
Published: April 2021

This multi-level meta-analysis tested if evidence-based trauma treatment was effective in reducing trauma symptoms and externalizing behavior problems in adolescents. Based on eight independent samples and 75 effect sizes, results indicated that Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) had a large and significant overall effect ( d = 0.909) on reducing trauma symptoms and externalizing behavior problems. Trauma treatment significantly decreased trauma symptoms (large effect) and externalizing behavior problems (medium effect). Age and type of control group moderated treatment effects. Treatment was more effective in older adolescents. Trauma treatment for adolescents with externalizing behavior problems had a larger effect compared to no treatment, but not compared to treatment as usual. It seems important to provide a broad treatment offer for adolescents with severe externalizing behavior problems, in which, besides trauma treatment, attention is paid to reducing relevant individual risk factors for behavior problems.
The effects of loading path on process parameters in the free tube forming process
Authors: Mosavi Seyed Saeid , Mazdak Siamak , Sheykholeslami Mohammad Reza , Sajadi Vajihe Sadat , Yousefi Peyman
Published: April 2021

The free bending method is the simplest method among the tube bending processes without the use of a die. Despite the simplicity of the process, there is no proper control over the geometrical tolerance of the product. The loading path or in other words the bearing movement mechanism is one of the effective factors on product geometry. In this paper, a finite element simulation has been carried out to investigate two different bearing movement time-paths (synchronous and asynchronous mechanisms); then, the results have been verified with experimental tests. The thickness distribution in different directions, ovality, bending radius, and applied forces on the bearing and the tube for both bearing movement mechanisms are the main results of this paper. The amplitude of thickness change in both mechanisms was equal. But there is a uniform trend in variation of thickness distribution in synchronous mechanisms. So, better geometrical quality of products is expected in this mechanism. On the other hand, because of uniform force distribution with tube movement in the bearing and tube, the stability of the asynchronous mechanism is higher than the synchronous mechanism.
When Forecasting Mutually Supportive Matches Will Be Practically Impossible
Authors: Lakey Brian , Brummans Jessica , Obreiter Amy , Hubbard Sultan Ali , Vander Molen Randy J. , Fles Elizabeth H. , Andrews Justin , Woods William C. , Hesse Calvin , Gildner Brianna , Forster Kevin , Lutz Rachel , Maley Morgan
Published: April 2021

Forecasting which dyads will develop mutually supportive relationships is an important applied and basic research question. Applying psychometric theory to the design of forecasting studies shows that agreement between dyad members about their relationship (relational reciprocity) sets an upper limit for forecasting accuracy by determining the reliability of measurement. To test this, we estimated relational reciprocity in Study 1. Participants in seven samples (six student and one military; N = 504; Ndyads = 766) rated each other on support-related constructs in round-robin designs. Relational reciprocity was very low, undermining reliability. Formulas from psychometric theory predicted that forecasting supportive dyads would be practically impossible. To test this, we had participants in Study 2 complete a measure for matching dyads derived from recent theory. As predicted, supportive matches could not be forecast with acceptable precision. Theoretically, this falsifies some predictions of recent social-support theory. Practically, it remains unclear how to translate basic social-support research into effective interventions.
A speleothem record from Portugal reveals phases of increased winter precipitation in western Iberia during the Holocene
Authors: Benson Alexa , Hoffmann Dirk L , Daura Joan , Sanz Montserrat , Rodrigues Filipa , Souto Pedro , Zilhão João
Published: April 2021

The European climate during the Holocene period is characterised by frequent changes of temperature and precipitation. The North Atlantic plays a major role as a driver for European climate and is a dominant precipitation source, particularly for the western European and north African realm. Atmospheric pressure gradients over the Atlantic (North Atlantic Oscillation, NAO), Atlantic circulation patterns (Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, AMO) or positioning of the Atlantic jet stream have been suggested to be responsible for precipitation patterns across western Europe. However, proxy data provide an inconsistent picture on how precipitation responds to changes in the Atlantic realm such as changes of Atlantic temperature (IRD), atmospheric pressure (NAO), water circulation (AMO) or the jet stream. Here we present a record of speleothem-based winter precipitation amount from Portugal. The record covers most of the Holocene and demonstrates that wetter conditions were synchronous in western and southern Iberia during early and mid Holocene. The record also shows a correlation between increased winter precipitation amount in western Iberia and Atlantic cooling, evidenced by Bond events, between 10 and 4 ka.
Analysis of India’s Competitive Position in RCEP
Authors: Ray Amlan , Deepika M. G. , Narayanan G. Badri
Published: April 2021

In the context of policy developments surrounding India’s opting out of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and India’s lack of ventures in plurilateral regional trade agreements (RTAs), we attempt to analyse the competitiveness and potential of Indian export items in the RCEP region. Our findings show low export intensity for India with RCEP member countries. Higher revealed comparative advantage (RCA) and duty reduction in partner countries may help India in enhancing exports of only a few commodities. India has high RCA in commodities, for which the tariffs by RCEP countries are already moderate. Considering India’s present trade balance position, tariff structure, non-tariff barriers (NTBs) of partner countries, intellectual property rights (IPR) and export competitiveness of Indian commodities, it appears to us that India had limited options but to opt out of RCEP. While the members of RCEP are still open to accepting India, more needs to be worked out on building competitiveness for Indian commodities and the future strategy for negotiations, if India considers itself to be a part of RCEP in the future. Given its limited participation in regional blocks, India should identify its core areas of interest in goods and services where it can enhance its competitiveness and attain better trade performance using strategic bilateral negotiations and possibly exploit imported inputs to promote higher value-added exports.
Implementing Asynchronous Instructional Materials for Students With Learning Disabilities
Authors: Love Matthew L. , Ewoldt Kathy B.
Published: April 2021

Online learning continues to be an increasingly popular option in K–12 and postsecondary settings As this trend continues, it is important that the developers of online instructional environments and materials proactively consider the needs of all students. This includes determining how special education and specially designed instruction can be provided in online environments. For students with learning disabilities (LD), a systematic process for determining whether available learning materials address academic standards and specific student needs is key. To support practitioner lesson planning, this column provides guidance for aligning asynchronous learning materials to academic standards and the needs of students with LD. Guidance for supplementing and augmenting available materials is also provided.
A narrative account of the key drivers in the development of the Learning from Deaths policy
Authors: Lalani Mirza , Hogan Helen
Published: April 2021

Objective

In recent years there has been a proliferation of patient safety policies in the United Kingdom triggered by well publicized failures in health care. The Learning from Deaths (LfD) policy was implemented in response to failures at Southern Health National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust. This study aims to develop a narrative to enable the understanding of the key drivers involved in its evolution and implications for future national patient safety policy development.

Methods

A qualitative study was undertaken using documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews (n = 12) with policymakers from organizations involved in the design, implementation and assurance of LfD at a system level. Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Approach was used to frame the policymaking process.

Results

The publication of the Southern Health independent review and subsequent highlighting by the Care Quality Commission of a fragmented approach to learning from deaths across the NHS opened a ‘policy window.’ Under the influence of the families affected by patient safety failures and the then Secretary of State, acting as ‘policy entrepreneurs,’ recently developed methods for mortality review were combined with mechanisms to enhance transparency and governance. This rapidly created a framework designed to ensure NHS organizations identified remedial safety problems and could be accountable for addressing them.

Conclusions

The development of LfD exhibits several common features with other patient safety policies in the NHS. It was triggered by a crisis and the need for a prompt political response and attempts to address a range of concerns related to safety. In common with other safety policies, LfD contains inherent tensions related to its primary purpose, which may hinder its impact. In the absence of formal evaluations of these policies, deeper understanding of the policymaking process offers the possibility of identifying potential barriers to goal achievement.
Testing self-congruity theory in Bektashi faith destinations: The roles of memorable tourism experience and destination attachment
Authors: Cifci Ibrahim
Published: April 2021

The study extends the current literature by examining self-congruity and its relationship with possible psychological determinants of travelers’ satisfaction and revisit intention. A quantitative study approach was administered on data collected from travelers to the Bektashi faith destinations in Turkey. Through 357 valid questionnaires, the study confirms that both actual and ideal self-congruity do not directly affect overall satisfaction and revisit intention. Memorable tourism experience fully mediates the relationship of actual and ideal self-congruity with overall satisfaction and revisit intention. However, only actual self-congruity directly affects destination attachment. Memorable tourism experience partially and fully mediates the relationships of actual and ideal self-congruity with destination attachment, respectively. Lastly, destination attachment moderates the relationships of actual self-congruity with overall satisfaction and revisit intention. This study also offers several practical implications for responsible authorities in faith destinations.
Diving below the surface: A framework for arctic health research to support thriving communities
Authors: Cueva Katie , Rink Elizabeth , Lavoie Josée G. , Stoor Jon P.A. , Healey Akearok Gwen , Gladun Elena , Larsen Christina V.L.
Published: April 2021

Aims: Historically, health research in the Arctic has focused on documenting ill-health using a narrow set of deficit-oriented epidemiologic indicators (i.e., prevalence of disease and mortality rates). While useful, this type of research does not adequately capture the breadth and complexities of community health and well-being, and fails to highlight solutions. A community’s context, strengths, and continued expressions of well-being need to guide inquiries, inform processes, and contextualize recommendations. In this paper, we present a conceptual framework developed to address the aforementioned concerns and inform community-led health and social research in the Arctic. Methods: The proposed framework is informed by our collective collaborations with circumpolar communities, and syntheses of individual and group research undertaken throughout the Circumpolar North. Our framework encourages investigation into the contextual factors that promote circumpolar communities to thrive. Results: Our framework centers on the visual imagery of an iceberg. There is a need to dive deeper than superficial indicators of health to examine individual, family, social, cultural, historical, linguistic, and environmental contexts that support communities in the Circumpolar North to thrive. A participatory community-based approach in conjunction with ongoing epidemiologic research is necessary in order to effectively support health and wellness. Conclusions: The iceberg framework is a way to conceptualize circumpolar health research and encourage investigators to both monitor epidemiologic indicators and also dive below the surface using participatory methodology to investigate contextual factors that support thriving communities.
Safety Orange
Authors: Fisher Anna Watkins
Published: April 2021

Safety Orange first emerged as a legal color standard in the US in the 1950s in technical manuals and federal regulations; today, it is most visible in the contexts of terror, pandemic, and environmental alarm systems; traffic control; work safety; and mass incarceration. The color is a marker of the extreme poles of state oversight and abandonment, of capitalist excess and dereliction. Its unprecedented saturation encodes the tracking of those bodies, neighborhoods, and infrastructures coded as worthy of care – and those deemed dangerous and expendable. This article uses the color orange as an interpretive key for theorizing the uneven distribution of safety and care in 21st-century US public life and to ponder what orange tells us about the relationship between phenomena often viewed as unrelated: information networks, climate data science, pandemic crisis, neoliberal policy, racist violence, and socially engaged art.
Where Blackness dies: the aesthetics of a massacre and the violence of remembering
Authors: Cervantes-Gómez Xiomara Verenice
Published: April 2021

This article focuses on the presence of ‘Blackness’ in Latin America, and the role/location of ‘Blackness’ in the necropolitics of Mexico, in particular, as a visual mode of aestheticizing violence in the aftermath of the 2010 Tamaulipas massacre of 72 undocumented migrants. As an act of remembering the victims, Mexican journalists, writers, and activists created a digital altar: 72 Migrantes. Focusing on photography and narrative as visual frames of Blackness, this article analyzes the representation of Black bodies in the digital altar to conceptualize Blackness as: a constitutive part of violent landscapes; a symptom and supplement of that violence; and, conversely, the location itself from which to critique that violence. At stake is a call for Blackness to be read within hemispheric Latin Americanist visual studies as a locus for understanding antisociality and critical race theory by closely studying the role of the human, social death, and the aesthetics of remembrance. Over 10 years after the massacre, the arguments raised in this article both implicitly and explicitly underscore the need to conceptualize contemporary Blackness and death in the wake of the growing anti-racism activism, Black Lives Matter, and the disproportionate number of people of color who have died as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pharmacological or non-pharmacological interventions for treatment of common mental disorders associated with Tuberculosis: A systematic review
Authors: Farooq Saeed , Tunmore Jessica , Comber Rifat
Published: April 2021

We aimed to review the literature on interventions for treating Common Mental Disorders (CMD) in people with Tuberculosis (TB). We followed PRISMA guidelines and the protocol was registered at PROSPERO. The electronic databases (PsycInfo, CINAHL, Medline, Google Scholar, Embase) were searched from 1982 to 2020. 349 relevant records were screened, with 26 examined at full text. 13 studies were included totalling 4326 participants. A meta-analysis was not possible due to nature of data, thus descriptive synthesis was conducted. Eleven studies evaluated psychosocial interventions, which significantly improved adherence or cure rates from TB, anxiety and depression. The elements of effective psychosocial interventions included; combating stigma, socioeconomic disadvantage, managing associated guilt and fear of contagion, and explanatory models of illness in local population. Two articles evaluated pharmacological interventions (antidepressants and Vitamin D). This is the first systematic review of interventions to treat CMD in TB. The studies were mostly low quality and mental health outcomes were not adequately described. However, this review suggests that it is feasible to develop and test interventions for improving mental health outcomes and enhancing treatment adherence in TB.
Crafting Cities for All: Qualitative Inquiry of the Street and the Spatial Practice of Skateboarding
Authors: Vivoni Francisco , Folsom-Fraster Jacob
Published: April 2021

This article exposes skateboarding as a meaningful social practice within neoliberal public space. Through a qualitative inquiry of the street, it chronicles the significance of moving bodies on skateboards that disrupt neoliberalism and foment the possibility of inclusive cities. The article takes on an invitation for researchers to practice qualitative inquiry in the streets as part of its living ecology through the corporeal knowledge produced while skateboarding in Worcester, MA, USA. Furthermore, it builds on an embodied inquiry of street art and spatial justice set on challenging deep social inequalities exacerbated during the current neoliberal order. The article forwards a street inquiry of everyday life centered on skateboarding, public space and the crafting of cities for all.
Bioengineering approaches to mature induced pluripotent stem cell-derived atrial cardiomyocytes to model atrial fibrillation
Authors: Ly Olivia T , Brown Grace E , Han Yong Duk , Darbar Dawood , Khetani Salman R
Published: April 2021

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) serve as a robust platform to model several human arrhythmia syndromes including atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the structural, molecular, functional, and electrophysiological parameters of patient-specific iPSC-derived atrial cardiomyocytes (iPSC-aCMs) do not fully recapitulate the mature phenotype of their human adult counterparts. The use of physiologically inspired microenvironmental cues, such as postnatal factors, metabolic conditioning, extracellular matrix (ECM) modulation, electrical and mechanical stimulation, co-culture with non-parenchymal cells, and 3D culture techniques can help mimic natural atrial development and induce a more mature adult phenotype in iPSC-aCMs. Such advances will not only elucidate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of AF, but also identify and assess novel mechanism-based therapies towards supporting a more ‘personalized’ (i.e. patient-specific) approach to pharmacologic therapy of AF.
Side-Lining Trauma Sensitive Practices in Schools and Next Steps
Authors: Paredes Taina
Published: April 2021

Studies reveal students who deal with complex traumas must manage negative impacts to their development. These impacts reveal themselves in the challenges young children and adolescents face with learning and behavioral management. Yet, schools across the United States are not mandated to learn about, create, nor implement trauma sensitive schooling. The negligence around tending to young scholars with trauma by revising school policies, practices, and educator training has led to students who have experienced complex traumas being unfairly punished by the education system in a multitude of instances. One of these instances occurred in Compton, Los Angeles, during the year 2015. Eight students, who had dealt with two or more traumas in their lifetime, were met with suspensions and expulsions rather than assistance and guidance from the educators they came across, year after year. This case study will explore one student’s story, Peter P., and how the school district failed to provide him the proper support necessary to assist him in having equal access and equal opportunity to educational success, as a scholar who faced trauma, starting from his early childhood.
Dung Beetle Diversity and Community Composition Along a Land Use Gradient in a Savannah Ecosystem of North Western Tanzania
Authors: Stanbrook Roisin , Norrey John , Kisingo Alex Wilbard , Jones Martin
Published: April 2021

Habitat loss and degradation are the most widely cited drivers of changes in species abundance and diversity. We explored changes in dung beetle species diversity and composition across different land uses in the north west Tanzanian savannah. We expected a negative response gradient in the diversity and composition of the dung beetle community, from land uses that preserve vegetation and hold native mammal diversity to livestock intensive and heavily grazed areas. Dung beetles were sampled in a protected area and two anthropogenically influenced land use types. Species richness and composition of each land use type, including differences in diversity and functional groups were analyzed and indicator species for each land use gradient were identified. As expected, diversity and community composition varied between areas with less environmental change compared to those impacted anthropogenically. We conclude that conservation of protected areas within African savannahs can provide a functionally rich dung beetle community and subsequently rich ecological functions. The dung beetle species identified by this study as eco-indicators can be used as a benchmark for future studies that use rapid monitoring to assess disturbance in African savannas.
Living-Related Donor Kidney Transplant in a Patient With Single Ventricle and Fontan Circulation
Authors: Houlihan Taylor H. , Lopez Sonya , Dodds Kathryn , Goldberg David , Wernovsky Gil , Baluarte H. Jorge , Meyer Kevin , Rychik Jack
Published: April 2021

The hemodynamic profile of the Fontan circulation presents challenges that raise questions about candidacy for organ transplantation. We report a case of a 24-year-old male with double-inlet right ventricle and aortic atresia, who suffered bilateral renal cortical necrosis due to neonatal cardiovascular shock, received a live-donor kidney transplant from his mother at age 17, and has diminished yet stable renal function seven years posttransplant.
Factors Affecting the Control of Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps: A Comparison in Patients With or Without NERD
Authors: Lilja Markus Jukka , Koskinen Anni , Virkkula Paula , Vento Seija Inkeri , Myller Jyri , Hammarén-Malmi Sari , Laulajainen-Hongisto Anu , Hytönen Maija , Mäkitie Antti , Numminen Jura , Sillanpää Saara , Raitiola Hannu , Rautiainen Markus , Toppila-Salmi Sanna Katriina
Published: April 2021

Objectives

The aim was to compare the control of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), in patients with/without nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD). Study Desing: A retrospective hospital-based sample of CRSwNP patients with/without NERD with follow-up.

Setting

Tertiary rhinology centers.

Methods

Electronic patient record data from 116 CRSwNP patients (46 with NERD and 70 without NERD) undergoing ESS during 2001–17 were studied. Mean follow-up time was 9.9 years (range 1.1–15.3). Endpoints reflecting uncontrolled CRSwNP were revision ESS, and need for rescue/advanced therapy (e.g. antibiotics, oral corticosteroids and/or biological therapy) during follow-up. NERD was variable of interest and gender, age, asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR), smoking, Lund-Mackay (LM) score of sinus computed tomography scans previous ESS and baseline total ethmoidectomy were used as covariates.

Results

Twenty-one (49.7%) NERD patients and 18 (25.7%) non-NERD patients underwent revision ESS within a mean ± SD of 4.3 ± 2.8 and 3.7 ± 2.6 years, respectively (p = .013, by Logrank test). In Cox´s regression models, NERD, female gender, young age, asthma, AR, previous ESS, and lack of total ethmoidectomy were associated with revision-ESS. In adjusted model, only the total ethmoidectomy predicted revision-free survival. In adjusted logistic regression model, there was an insignificant trend that NERD and LM score were associated with the need for rescue/advanced therapy in the follow-up.

Conclusions

Patients with NERD had higher risk of uncontrolled CRSwNP than patient group without NERD, as measured by revision ESS and/or need for rescue/advanced therapy in the follow-up. In addition, baseline total ethmoidectomy was associated with revision-free survival.
Community Response to the Impact of Thunderstorm Asthma Using Smart Technology
Authors: AlQuran Ala , Batra Mehak , Harry Susanto Nugroho , Holland Anne E. , Davies Janet M. , Erbas Bircan , Lampugnani Edwin R.
Published: April 2021

Background

The most severe thunderstorm asthma (TA) event occurred in Melbourne on the 21st November 2016 and during this period, daily pollen information was available and accessible on smart devices via an App. An integrated survey within the App allows users to self-report symptoms.

Objective

To explore patterns of symptom survey results during the period when the TA event occurred.

Methods

Symptom data from the Melbourne Pollen Count and Forecast App related to asthma history, hay fever symptoms, and medication use was explored. A one-week control period before and after the event was considered. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to assess associations between sex, age, symptoms, and medication use.

Results

Of the 28,655 responses, during the 2016 pollen season, younger (18 to 40 years) males, with no hay fever and no asthma were the most single and regular responders. During the TA event for new users, sex was only significantly associated with hay fever ( p = 0.008) of which 60.2% of females’ responses reported having hay fever, while 43% of males’ responses did not. Those with mild symptoms peaked during the TA event.

Conclusions

Many individuals completed the survey on the app for the first time during the TA event indicating the potential of digital technologies to be used as indicators of health risk among populations at risk of TA events.
Inflexible Interpretations of Ambiguous Social Situations: A Novel Predictor of Suicidal Ideation and the Beliefs That Inspire It
Authors: Everaert Jonas , Bronstein Michael V. , Cannon Tyrone D. , Klonsky E. David , Joormann Jutta
Published: April 2021

Suicidal ideation has been linked to a bias toward interpreting ambiguous information in consistently less positive or more negative manners ( positive/negative interpretation bias), implying that information-processing biases might distort beliefs thought to inspire suicidal ideation (e.g., those regarding burdensomeness). Therefore, in the present study, we examined whether suicidal ideation and beliefs highlighted in theories of suicide are related to positive/negative interpretation bias and/or a bias against revising negative interpretations in response to evidence against them ( negative interpretation inflexibility). Data were collected in three waves, each 1 week apart. Network analyses and structural equation models provided evidence that negative interpretation bias (cross-sectionally) and negative interpretation inflexibility (cross-sectionally and over time) were related to suicidal ideation and that the latter relationship was mediated by perceived burdensomeness. By identifying this mediation pathway in the present study, we provide a potential mechanism by which perceptions of burdensomeness, a key risk factor for suicidality, might arise and/or persist.
Studying Bureaucracy in Post-Colonial India: The Normative and the Quotidian
Authors: Chakrabarti Bhaskar , Purayil Mufsin Puthan , Thakur Manish
Published: April 2021

This article presents a critical assessment of the new wave of anthropological scholarship on bureaucracy and its relevance in India. Dealing primarily with everyday bureaucratic practices, and their entanglements with local hierarchies of power, status and wealth, such studies underline the contingent and contextual nature of the enterprise of ‘state-making’. Moreover, they direct our attention away from the normative, formal-institutional configurations of state power to the quotidian workings of the state through its materiality and discursive representations at multiple loci of state–citizen interface in post-colonial India that are invariably orchestrated bureaucratically. While bringing out the implications of this change in theoretical, methodological and substantive focus for our understandings of the interrelated ideas of state and citizenship, the article concludes by outlining a few possible trajectories for further scholarly engagement so far as studies of bureaucracy in India are concerned.
Empowering and Directive Leadership: The Cost of Changing Styles
Authors: Mukherjee Smita , Mulla Zubin R.
Published: April 2021

We examine the cost of leaders changing between empowering and directive leadership styles on team outcomes. In a laboratory experiment, we collected data from 240 participants in 80 teams. Confederates enacted different leadership styles and led teams of participants in performing a series of tasks. When leaders changed their style from directive to empowering, teams took time to respond in terms of higher satisfaction with leader and affective commitment. However, when leaders changed their style from empowering to directive, the deterioration of satisfaction with leader and reduction in affective commitment were immediate. Moreover, teams of leaders who had been consistently directive showed higher affective commitment as compared to teams of leaders who had a history of being empowering but later shifted to being directive. First time managers can get inputs on how they should enact their leadership style and be aware that switching between styles may impose long-term costs on the team’s affective commitment and satisfaction with the leader.
P2X3 receptor upregulation in trigeminal ganglion neurons through TNFα production in macrophages contributes to trigeminal neuropathic pain in rats
Authors: Koizumi Momoko , Asano Sayaka , Furukawa Akihiko , Hayashi Yoshinori , Hitomi Suzuro , Shibuta Ikuko , Hayashi Katsuhiko , Kato Fusao , Iwata Koichi , Shinoda Masamichi
Published: April 2021

Background

Trigeminal neuralgia is a characteristic disease that manifests as orofacial phasic or continuous severe pain triggered by innocuous orofacial stimulation; its mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we established a new animal model of trigeminal neuralgia and investigated the role of P2X3 receptor (P2X3R) alteration in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) via tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) signaling in persistent orofacial pain.

Methods

Trigeminal nerve root compression (TNC) was performed in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Changes in the mechanical sensitivity of whisker pad skin, amount of TNFα in the TG, and number of P2X3R and TNF receptor-2 (TNFR2)-positive TG neurons were assessed following TNC. The effects of TNFR2 antagonism in TG and subcutaneous P2X3R antagonism on mechanical hypersensitivity following TNC were examined.

Results

TNC induced unilateral continuous orofacial mechanical allodynia, which was depressed by carbamazepine. The accumulation of macrophages showing amoeboid-like morphological changes and expression of TNFα in the TG was remarkably increased following TNC treatment. The number of P2X3R- and TNFR2-positive TG neurons innervating the orofacial skin was significantly increased following TNC. TNFα was released from activated macrophages that occurred in the TG following TNC, and TNFR2 antagonism in the TG significantly diminished the TNC-induced increase in P2X3R-immunoreactive TG neurons. Moreover, subcutaneous P2X3R antagonism in the whisker pad skin significantly depressed TNC-induced mechanical allodynia.

Conclusions

Therefore, it can be concluded that the signaling of TNFα released from activated macrophages in the TG induces the upregulation of P2X3R expression in TG neurons innervating the orofacial region, resulting in orofacial mechanical allodynia following TNC.
Episodic headache with spontaneous hypothermia reveal Shapiro’s syndrome variant with effectiveness of clonidine therapy
Authors: Aubignat Mickael , Tir Melissa , Krystkowiak Pierre , Andriuta Daniela
Published: April 2021

Background

Episodic headache with spontaneous hypothermia constitute an uncommon association and is not well recognized in the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3). Spontaneous periodic hypothermia, also called Shapiro’s syndrome, is a rare disease characterized by hypothermia attacks associated or not with hyperhidrosis without any triggering factor.

Case presentation

We report a rare case of Shapiro’s syndrome variantrevealed by episodes of headache with spontaneous hypothermia witheffectiveness of clonidine therapy in a 76-year-old Parkinson’s disease woman.

Conclusions

In the literature, apart from Shapiro’s syndrome, headache withhypothermia seem to occur very rarely. In our case,these symptoms may be considered as a very rare non-motor fluctuation ofParkinson’s disease.
Longitudinal Zeolite-Iron Oxide Nanocomposite Deposited Capacitance Biosensor for Interleukin-3 in Sepsis Detection
Authors: Chen Chao , Gopinath Subash C. B. , Anbu Periasamy
Published: April 2021

Sepsis is an extreme condition involving a physical response to severe microbial infection and causes fatal and life-threatening issues. Sepsis generates during the chemicals release with the immune system into the bloodstream for fighting against an infection, which causes the inflammation and leads to the medical emergency. A complexed longitudinal zeolite and iron oxide nanocomposite was extracted from coal mine fly ash and utilized to improve the surface characteristics of the capacitance biosensor to identify sepsis attacks. Anti-interleukin-3 (anti-IL-3) antibody was attached to the zeolite- and iron oxide-complexed capacitance electrode surface through an amine linker to interact with the sepsis biomarker IL-3. The morphological and chemical components of the nanocomplex were investigated by FESEM, FETEM, and EDX analyses. At approximately 30 nm, the longitudinal zeolite and iron oxide nanocomposite aided in attaining the limit of IL-3 detection of 3 pg/mL on the linear curve, with a regression coefficient (R2) of 0.9673 [y = 1.638x − 1.1847]. A lower detection limit was achieved in the dose-dependent range (3–100 pg/mL) due to the higher amount of antibody immobilization on the sensing surface due to the nanomaterials and the improved surface current. Furthermore, control experiments with relevant biomolecules did not show capacitance changes, and spiked IL-3 in human serum increased capacitance, indicating the specific and selective detection of IL-3. This study identifies and quantifies IL-3 via potentially useful methods and helps in diagnosing sepsis attack.
Tremor assessment using smartphone sensor data and fuzzy reasoning
Authors: Fuchs Caro , Nobile Marco S. , Zamora Guillaume , Degeneffe Aurélie , Kubben Pieter , Kaymak Uzay
Published: April 2021

Background

Tremor severity assessment is an important step for the diagnosis and treatment decision-making of essential tremor (ET) patients. Traditionally, tremor severity is assessed by using questionnaires (e.g., ETRS and QUEST surveys). In this work we assume the possibility of assessing tremor severity using sensor data and computerized analyses. The goal of this work is to assess severity of tremor objectively, to be better able to asses improvement in ET patients due to deep brain stimulation or other treatments.

Methods

We collect tremor data by strapping smartphones to the wrists of ET patients. The resulting raw sensor data is then pre-processed to remove any artifact due to patient’s intentional movement. Finally, this data is exploited to automatically build a transparent, interpretable, and succinct fuzzy model for the severity assessment of ET. For this purpose, we exploit pyFUME, a tool for the data-driven estimation of fuzzy models. It leverages the FST-PSO swarm intelligence meta-heuristic to identify optimal clusters in data, reducing the possibility of a premature convergence in local minima which would result in a sub-optimal model. pyFUME was also combined with GRABS, a novel methodology for the automatic simplification of fuzzy rules.

Results

Our model is able to assess tremor severity of patients suffering from Essential Tremor, notably without the need for subjective questionnaires nor interviews. The fuzzy model improves the mean absolute error (MAE) metric by 78–81% compared to linear models and by 71–74% compared to a model based on decision trees.

Conclusion

This study confirms that tremor data gathered using the smartphones is useful for the constructing of machine learning models that can be used to support the diagnosis and monitoring of patients who suffer from Essential Tremor. The model produced by our methodology is easy to inspect and, notably, characterized by a lower error with respect to approaches based on linear models or decision trees.
Genome of the destructive oomycete Phytophthora cinnamomi provides insights into its pathogenicity and adaptive potential
Authors: Engelbrecht Juanita , Duong Tuan A. , Prabhu S. Ashok , Seedat Mohamed , van den Berg Noëlani
Published: April 2021

Background

Phytophthora cinnamomi is an oomycete pathogen of global relevance. It is considered as one of the most invasive species, which has caused irreversible damage to natural ecosystems and horticultural crops. There is currently a lack of a high-quality reference genome for this species despite several attempts that have been made towards sequencing its genome. The lack of a good quality genome sequence has been a setback for various genetic and genomic research to be done on this species. As a consequence, little is known regarding its genome characteristics and how these contribute to its pathogenicity and invasiveness.

Results

In this work we generated a high-quality genome sequence and annotation for P. cinnamomi using a combination of Oxford Nanopore and Illumina sequencing technologies. The annotation was done using RNA-Seq data as supporting gene evidence. The final assembly consisted of 133 scaffolds, with an estimated genome size of 109.7 Mb, N50 of 1.18 Mb, and BUSCO completeness score of 97.5%. Genome partitioning analysis revealed that P. cinnamomi has a two-speed genome characteristic, similar to that of other oomycetes and fungal plant pathogens. In planta gene expression analysis revealed up-regulation of pathogenicity-related genes, suggesting their important roles during infection and host degradation.

Conclusion

This study has provided a high-quality reference genome and annotation for P. cinnamomi. This is among the best assembled genomes for any Phytophthora species assembled to date and thus resulted in improved identification and characterization of pathogenicity-related genes, some of which were undetected in previous versions of genome assemblies. Phytophthora cinnamomi harbours a large number of effector genes which are located in the gene-poor regions of the genome. This unique genomic partitioning provides P. cinnamomi with a high level of adaptability and could contribute to its success as a highly invasive species. Finally, the genome sequence, its annotation and the pathogenicity effectors identified in this study will serve as an important resource that will enable future studies to better understand and mitigate the impact of this important pathogen.
Freezing resistance evaluation of rose stems during frost dehardening using electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Qian Ji , Zhou Juan , Gong Ruijuan , Liu Yang , Zhang Gang
Published: April 2021

Background

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) has rarely been applied in plant science, particularly to study plant resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses. In this study, we evaluated the freezing resistance of floribunda roses (RosaFloribunda) during frost dehardening using the EIT technique to identify a new method for rapid and non-destructive measurement of plant freezing resistance.

Results

The current was the excitation source, the boundary voltage value was measured, and then the boundary voltage reconstructed value was formed. Using an imaging algorithm, the two-dimensional (2D) distribution of impedance or impedance variation was reconstructed. The EIT reconstructed values decreased obviously with the decline in freezing temperatures. The EIT reconstructed values of stems had the best fit to the logistic equation, and subsequently, the semi-lethal temperatures were calculated. The freezing resistance results evaluated using EIT reconstructed values were linearly correlated with the results of the traditional electrolyte leakage (EL) method (r = 0.93,P < 0.01).

Conclusions

In conclusion, after freezing tests, the reconstructed values of EIT images could be used to quantitatively evaluate the freezing resistance of floribunda rose stems. The present study provides a reference for the further application of the EIT technique for non-destructive and rapid detection of plant freezing resistance.
Associations of sarcopenia components with physical activity and nutrition in Australian older adults performing exercise training
Authors: Akehurst Ewelina , Scott David , Rodriguez Juan Peña , Gonzalez Carol Alonso , Murphy Jasmaine , McCarthy Helen , Dorgo Sandor , Hayes Alan
Published: April 2021

Background

The risk of progressive declines in skeletal muscle mass and strength, termed sarcopenia, increases with age, physical inactivity and poor diet. The purpose of this study was to explore and compare associations of sarcopenia components with self-reported physical activity and nutrition in older adults participating in resistance training at Helsinki University Research [HUR] and conventional gyms for over a year, once a week, on average.

Methods

The study looked at differences between HUR (n = 3) and conventional (n = 1) gyms. Muscle strength (via handgrip strength and chair stands), appendicular lean mass (ALM; via dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) and physical performance (via gait speed over a 4-m distance, short physical performance battery, timed up and go and 400-m walk tests) were evaluated in 80 community-dwelling older adults (mean ± SD 76.5 ± 6.5 years). Pearson correlations explored associations for sarcopenia components with self-reported physical activity (via Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly [PASE]) and nutrition (via Australian Eating Survey).

Results

No differences in PASE and the Australian Recommended Food Score (ARFS) were observed between HUR and conventional gyms, however HUR gym participants had a significantly higher self-reported protein intake (108 ± 39 g vs 88 ± 27 g; p = 0.029) and a trend to have higher energy intake (9698 ± 3006 kJ vs 8266 ± 2904 kJ; p = 0.055). In both gym groups, gait speed was positively associated with self-reported physical activity (r = 0.275; p = 0.039 and r = 0.423; p = 0.044 for HUR and conventional gyms, respectively). ALM was positively associated with protein (p = 0.047, r = 0.418) and energy (p = 0.038, r = 0.435) intake in the conventional gym group. Similar associations were observed for ALM/h2 in the HUR group. None of the sarcopenia components were associated with ARFS in either gym group.

Conclusion

Older adults attending HUR and conventional gyms had similar self-reported function and nutrition (but not protein intake). Inadequate physical activity was associated with low gait speed and inadequate nutrition and low protein ingestion associated with low lean mas, even in older adults participating in exercise programs. Optimal physical activity and nutrition are important for maintaining muscle mass and function in older adults.
CB1 receptor antagonist rimonabant protects against chronic intermittent hypoxia-induced renal injury in rats
Authors: Zhao Li , Liu Tao , Dou Zhan-jun , Wang Mei-ting , Hu Zi-xuan , Wang Bei
Published: April 2021

Background

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) induced chronic kidney disease is mainly caused by chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH). Our study investigate the mechanism underlying CIH-induced renal damage and whether the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) antagonist rimonabant (Ri) alleviates CIH-induced renal injury.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: one normal control (NC) group, two chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) groups, and two CIH + Ri groups. Rats in the NC groups were exposed to room air, while the CIH groups were exposed to a CIH environment for 4 weeks (4w CIH group) and 6 weeks (6w CIH group), respectively. Additionally, rats in the CIH + Ri groups were administered 1.5 mg/kg/day Ri for 4 weeks (4w CIH + Ri group) and 6 weeks (6w CIH + Ri group), respectively. Following this, the rats were euthanized and kidneys were excised for downstream analysis. In the renal tissues, the morphological alterations were examined via haematoxylin eosin (HE) staining and periodic acid schiff (PAS) staining, CB1R, Fis1, Mfn1, and p66Shc expression was assessed through western blot and immunohistochemistry, and the mitochondrial ultrastructural changes in kidney sections were assessed by electron microscopy.

Results

CB1R expression in the 4w and 6w CIH groups was significantly elevated, and further increased with prolonged hypoxia; however, Ri prevented the increase in CIH-induced CB1R expression. Fis1 and p66Shc expression in the CIH groups were increased, but Mfn1 expression decreased. Ri decreased Fis1 and p66Shc expression and increased Mfn1 expression. Renal damage in the 4w or 6w CIH + Ri group was evidently improved compared with that in the 4w or 6w CIH group. CB1R expression was positively correlated with Fis1 and p66Shc and negatively correlated with Mfn1. Meanwhile, electron microscopy showed that the percentage of fragmented mitochondria in the tubular cells in each group was consistent with the trend of CB1R expression.

Conclusion

CIH causes endocannabinoid disorders and induces abnormal mitochondrial dynamics, resulting in renal injury. Treatment with CB1R antagonists reduces CIH-induced renal damage by inhibiting dysregulated renal mitochondrial dynamics.