bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Commentary on “An evaluation of the social validity of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist – Community”
Authors: Mason Jonathan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a commentary on Chan and Baker’s article on the social validity of the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) by exploring some of the advantages and limitations of this and similar tools designed to classify challenging behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

The clinical use of the ABC and similar measures is discussed and contrasted with function-based approaches to assessment.

Findings

While classification tools such as the ABC have played an important role in developing the understanding of challenging behaviour, they focus exclusively on the individual exhibiting the behaviour and fail to take into consideration the context in which the behaviour occurs.

Originality/value

Considering behaviour in its social and environmental context can reduce the blame and stigma associated with challenging behaviour.
Refereeing articles including SEM – what should referees look for?
Authors: Ryan Chris
Published: May 2020

Purpose

After expressing an initial disquiet about the nature of many studies that are published using structural equation modelling (SEM), a rationale for using the technique is provided. Given the advantages provided by the technique, the differences between covariance-based and partial least squares techniques are briefly described. The argument progresses by indicating assumptions behind the techniques and what it is that referees require before being able to properly referee the paper. Some issues are fundamental to survey-based materials and include the requirement to distinguish between importance and discriminatory power, and the over-dependency on cross-sectional analysis when making claims of generalisation. Other issues of scale creation and sample size are touched upon. This paper finishes by suggesting a checklist for referees who are asked to review papers using SEM.
Molecular characterization of infectious bronchitis virus based on RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase gene
Authors: Hajijafari Anaraki Mozafar , Sheikhi Nariman , Haghbin Nazarpak Hadi , Nikbakht Brujeni Gholamreza
Published: May 2020

Extensive rate of variations in the S1 gene (spike glycoprotein subunit gene) of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) causes challenges for clinicians in counting variants for differentiation of infected from vaccinated birds and addressing the variants of unknown significance. This study investigated the possibility of using an RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase gene (RdRp) as a target for molecular characterization of IBV strains in Iran. Trachea samples were collected from commercial broiler flocks (n = 52) showing respiratory syndrome. Specific PCR primers were designed for a variable region located in the RdRp gene flanked by highly conserved regions. Reverse transcriptase PCR followed by sequence analysis identified eight IBV variants, with an overall prevalence of 44.2%. Deduced nucleotide and amino acid sequences were compared with published sequences for IBV strains. Because of the long‐distance similarities, the field samples could be discriminated from vaccine strains. Phylogenetic analysis of RdRp gene sequences resulted in clustering of the IBV strains related to each area. Using RdRp as a genetic marker eliminates the challenges arising from the enormous variations that make it difficult to discriminate between field and vaccine strains as well as affiliate certain variants to various geographical areas.
Influence of frequency‐dependent anisotropy on seismic amplitude‐versus‐offset signatures for fractured poroelastic rocks
Authors: He Y.‐X. , Wang S.‐X. , Wu X.‐Y. , Xi B.
Published: May 2020

Frequency‐dependent amplitude variation with offset offers an effective method for hydrocarbon detections and analysis of fluid flow during production of oil and natural gas within a fractured reservoir. An appropriate representation for the frequency dependency of seismic amplitude variation with offset signatures should incorporate influences of dispersive and attenuating properties of a reservoir and the layered structure for either isotropic or anisotropic dispersion analysis. In this study, we use an equivalent medium permeated with aligned fractures that simulates frequency‐dependent anisotropy, which is sensitive to the filled fluid of fractures. The model, where pores and fractures are filled with two different fluids, considers velocity dispersion and attenuation due to mesoscopic wave‐induced fluid flow. We have introduced an improved scheme seamlessly linking rock physics modelling and calculations for frequency‐dependent reflection coefficients based on the propagator matrix technique. The modelling scheme is performed in the frequency‐slowness domain and can properly incorporate effects of both bedded structure of the reservoir and velocity dispersion quantified with frequency‐dependent stiffness. Therefore, for a dispersive and attenuated layered model, seismic signatures represent a combined contribution of impedance contrast, layer thickness, anisotropic dispersion of the fractured media and tuning and interference of thin layers, which has been avoided by current conventional methods. Frequency‐dependent amplitude variation with offset responses was studied via considering the influences of fracture fills, layer thicknesses and fracture weaknesses for three classes amplitude variation with offset reservoirs. Modelling results show the applicability of the introduced procedure for interpretations of frequency‐dependent seismic anomalies associated with both layered structure and velocity dispersion of an equivalent anisotropic medium. The implications indicate that anisotropic velocity dispersion should be incorporated accurately to obtain enhanced amplitude variation with offset interpretations. The presented frequency‐dependent amplitude variation with offset modelling procedure offers a useful tool for fracture fluid detections in an anisotropic dispersive reservoir with layered structures.
UK Labour and the EU Single Market: ‘Social Europe’ or ‘Capitalist Club’?
Authors: Cole Josh
Published: May 2020

This article looks at the UK Labour Party’s view of the EU single market over the last four decades, focussing on three case study periods when this issue was particularly salient: first, the time of the single market’s introduction under Neil Kinnock’s leadership; second, the A8 accession with Tony Blair as Labour Prime Minister; and third, between the 2016 European referendum and 2019 general election during Jeremy Corbyn’s time as party leader. This historical narrative uses the theoretical approach of Harvard economist Dani Rodrik—of a ‘trilemma’ faced by national policy makers in response to globalisation—as a lens to describe a clear arc in Labour’s policy towards the single market across the three case studies. A position of initial scepticism moved to support under Kinnock’s leadership, and then active encouragement under Blair, before coming back again under Corbyn to uncomfortable non‐commitment. This arc directly correlates with the ebb and flow of the party’s overall economic approach—first the Keynesian, national Alternative Economic Strategy at the time of the party’s 1983 general election defeat; then, the deviation under Blair to a policy that actively encouraged cross‐border market liberalisation; and finally the return to an Alternative Economic Strategy‐style approach under Corbyn.
Auxiliary antitumor effects of fungal proteins from Hericium erinaceus by target on the gut microbiota
Authors: Wang Dongdong , Zhu Xiangxiang , Tang Xiaocui , Li Hongye , Yizhen Xie , Chen Diling
Published: May 2020

Cancer represents a major disease burden worldwide. Despite continuous advances obtained in medical therapies recently, resistance to standard drugs and adverse effects still represent important causes of therapeutic failure. There is growing evidence that the gut microbiota can affect the response to chemo‐ and immunotherapeutic drugs by modulating efficacy and/or toxicity, and diet is the most important factor affecting the gut microbiota. In this study, we assessed the auxiliary antitumor effects of immunomodulatory fungal proteins from Hericium erinaceus (HEP) administered with the chemotherapy drug 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐Fu), and we attempted to identify new potential prebiotic bacteria for auxiliary antitumor treatment. There were 1,455 proteins identified from H. erinaceus. In a xenografted mouse model of cancer, HEP with 5‐Fu significantly suppressed tumor growth, inhibited inflammatory markers such as interferon (IFN)‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and regulated the expression of Akt, CCDN1, CKD4, FOXM1, MMP7, MYC, PPAR‐α, and PPAR‐γ. 16S rRNA sequencing showed that HEP ameliorated the dysbacteriosis induced by 5‐Fu, as it inhibited certain aerobic and microaerobic bacteria including Parabacteroides, Flavobacteriaceae, Christensenellaceae, Anoxybacillus, Aggregatibacter, Comamonadaceae, Planococcaceae, Desulfovibrionaceae, Sporosarcina, Staphylococcus, Aerococcaceae, and Bilophila in the xenografted mice, and increase some probiotic bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Gemellales, Blautia, Sutterella, Anaerostipes, Roseburia, Lachnobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Desulfovibrio. This demonstrates that HEP could promote the antitumor efficacy of 5‐Fu by improving the microbiota composition, the immune inflammatory response, and homeostasis.
Effects of polar compounds in fried palm oil on liver lipid metabolism in C57 mice
Authors: Li Youdong , Yu Xiaoyan , Xu Yong‐Jiang , Li Jinwei , Du Liyang , Su Qingfeng , Cao Peirang , Liu Yuanfa
Published: May 2020

Polar components (PCs) are produced during the frying of oil, affecting the quality of edible oil and posing a hazard to human health. In this study, C57 mice were fed a high‐fat (HF) diet containing purified PCs for nine weeks. Their effects on lipid metabolism and liver function in animals were analyzed. Our results indicated that the contents of total PCs and saturated fatty acid increased from 6.07 ± 0.6% and 58.27 ± 0.35% to 19.17 ± 1.8% and 69.91 ± 0.51%, respectively (P < 0.01). PC intake resulted an 18.56% higher liver index in mice than that in the HF group. The PC group had the highest malondialdehyde (MDA) content (1.94 ± 0.11 nmol/mg protein) and the liver nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) activity score (NAS) was 4, which already showed NAFLD characteristics. In addition, the expression levels of lipid metabolism‐related genes, including sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1c), fatty acid synthetase (FAS), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐alpha, and peroxisome acyl‐CoA oxidase 1, indicated that PC increased hepatic lipid accumulation by upregulating the transcriptional level of fat synthesis genes and further leads to liver damage by affecting mitochondrial function. Our results provided important information about the effects of PCs produced in the frying process of PO on animal health, which is critical for assessing the biosafety of fried products.

Practical Application

The research will help promote the industrial upgrading of fried foods and help consumers build healthy lifestyles.
Consumer acceptability in the USA, Mexico, and Spain of chocolate chip cookies made with partial insect powder replacement
Authors: Castro Delgado Mauricio , Chambers Edgar , Carbonell‐Barrachina Angel , Noguera Artiaga Luis , Vidal Quintanar Reyna , Burgos Hernandez Armando
Published: May 2020

In the last decade, consumer perception of protein as an important nutrient has increased exponentially and focused on alternative sources such as plant‐ or insect‐based protein and microalgae. However, many consumers indicate that they do not consider insect ingredients, a potential source of high quality protein, to be a good choice in food products. But is it because of the sensory aspects? This consumer study was conducted in the United States of America, Mexico, and Spain to compare acceptability of a familiar product, chocolate chip cookies, in three “blind” variations: a control 100% wheat flour chocolate chip cookie, and two versions substituting 15% and 30% cricket flour for an equivalent amount of wheat flour. Two hundred consumers from each country were recruited and scored overall acceptability and acceptability of different sensory attributes for the three cookies. Acceptance was measured using a nine‐point hedonic scale and a similar format was used for each attribute. US consumers did not find significant differences in liking between the control and 15% sample. The 30% cricket powder cookie showed a decrease in consumer acceptance. Mexican and Spanish consumers liked the 15% sample significantly more than the control and 30% sample. Spanish consumers also like the control more than the 30% sample. The substitution of 15% cricket powder does not negatively impact liking in this product and, in fact, may improve both liking and protein content. Further research is necessary to determine whether this finding can help to mitigate the impact of insect‐containing ingredients.

Practical Application

High protein and sustainability are two key aspects being used to promote products in many markets. The protein content and sustainability of insect‐based ingredients could make more competitive baked products if certain negative aspects, such as sensory and emotional and psychological barriers, can be overcome. This study focused on three specific countries but products using insect powder as an ingredient have the potential to be used in other regions or countries as acceptable products. With the correct marketing, such products could become a competitive choice in the product category. The food industry should consider and explore different insect powders/flours as an alternative ingredient.
Postpartum depression and its correlates in middle‐class women in Hunan, China
Authors: Guan Ziyao , Bai Wenhui , Qin Chunxiang , Sun Mei , Bai Xiaoling , Tang Siyuan
Published: May 2020

Postpartum depression (PPD) has a negative impact on both infants and women. The middle‐class group is rapidly expanding with increased but unmet psychological needs. To determine the risk and its correlates of PPD in middle‐class women in Hunan, China. A sample of 306 middle‐class puerperae from obstetric wards of a large general hospital was enrolled in the study. Our results showed 55.6% middle‐class women were suspected PPD. Related risk factors included a history of complications, pregnancy stress, subjective support, and interaction effect between objective support and negative coping. The protective factors included objective support and an interaction effect between subjective support and negative coping. Early assessment and individualized guidance in terms of social support and coping to identify and prevent PPD in this population are required.
Theologies of pastoral leadership
Authors: Manning Libby Davis , Nelson Derek R.
Published: May 2020

The disestablishment of mainline Protestantism as the default religiosity and public theological voice, lamented by many of its members, presents new opportunities for conceiving of pastoral leadership in faithful ways. The pastor as public leader is better imagined as a visionary possibilizer and convener of public conversations, exerting influence in indirectly persuasive ways, rather than as spokesperson for an institution.
HOW RESEARCH GOES ASTRAY: PATHS AND EQUILIBRIA
Authors: Startz Richard
Published: May 2020

Some research disciplines persist for long periods despite contributing very little to our understanding of the world. In the presence of imperfect information about the quality of research, multiple equilibria can exist in which path dependence leads to disciplines going astray because researchers are incentivized to invest in low value lines of research. Research fields which have high social value are more likely to thrive, as are fields in which results are subject to evidence. Survivorship bias can lead to a distribution across disciplines in which weak disciplines have more talented researchers than do stronger disciplines. (JEL A11, A12, B40)
Mouthguard use and TMJ injury prevention with different occlusions: A three‐dimensional finite element analysis
Authors: Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Dal Piva Amanda Maria de Oliveira , Bottino Marco Antonio , Kleverlaan Cornelis Johannes , Koolstra Jan Harm
Published: May 2020

Background/Aims

There is a lack of data regarding the mechanical responses of the temporo‐mandibular joints during an impact to the orofacial region. The aim of this study was to analyze the biomechanical effects of wearing a mouthguard (MG) on the impact response of the mandibular condyle and articular disk according to the type of occlusion. The hypothesis was that the MG would minimize the effect in those structures, regardless of the occlusion type.

Methods

Using modeling software, a human skull with jaw, teeth and articular disk was created. The models were divided according to the occlusion type (Class I, II, or III) and the presence of a mouthguard (with or without). The geometries were exported to analysis software, and the materials were considered ideal. Fixation occurred at the base of the foramen magnum. The load (0‐500N, 1s) was applied to the upper central incisors with a steel ball. Maximum principal stress and Von Mises results (MPa) were obtained in the mandibular condyle and articular disk. Minimum principal stress and maximum shear stresses were also recorded in the articular disk.

Results

For both structures, the MG caused a decrease in stress concentration regardless of the occlusion and stress criteria. The condyle neck was the most tensile‐stressed area while for the articular disk, both the superior and inferior surfaces were the most stressed areas. The highest stress peaks in the disk were found for compression followed by tensile and then shear stress.

Conclusion

This biomechanical analysis of the effects of using a mouthguard exhibited considerably decreased stresses on the mandibular condyle and articular disk, regardless of the occlusion type.
Post‐ictal accelerometer silence as a marker of post‐ictal immobility
Authors: Bruno Elisa , Böttcher Sebastian , Biondi Andrea , Epitashvili Nino , Manyakov Nikolay V. , Lees Simon , Schulze‐Bonhage Andreas , Richardson Mark P. ,   the RADAR-CNS Consortium
Published: May 2020

Objective

Movement‐based wearable sensors are used for detection of convulsive seizures. The identification of the absence of motion following a seizure, known as post‐ictal immobility (PI), may represent a potential additional application of wearables. PI has been associated with potentially life‐threatening complications and with sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). We aimed to assess whether wearable accelerometers (ACCs) could be used as a digital marker of PI.

Method

Devices with embedded ACCs were worn by patients admitted to an epilepsy monitoring unit. Participants presenting with convulsive seizures were included in the study. PI presence and duration were assessed by experts reviewing video recordings. An algorithm for the automatic detection of post‐ictal ACC silence and its duration was developed and the linear pairwise relationship between the automatically detected duration of post‐ictal ACC silence and the duration of the expert‐labeled PI was analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐two convulsive seizures were recorded from 18 study participants. Twenty were followed by PI and two by agitation. The automated estimation of post‐ictal ACC silence identified all the 20 expert‐labeled PI. The regression showed that the duration of the post‐ictal ACC silence was correlated with the duration of PI (Pearsonr = .92;P < .001), with the age of study participants (Pearsonr = .78;P < .001), and with the duration of post‐ictal generalized electroencephalography suppression (PGES; Pearsonr = .4;P = .033).

Significance

We highlight a novel application of wearables as a way to record post‐ictal manifestations associated with an increased risk of SUDEP. The occurrence of a fatal seizure is unpredictable and the continuous, non‐invasive, long‐term identification of risk factors associated with each individual seizure may assume a great clinical importance.
Mitochondrial light switches: optogenetic approaches to control metabolism
Authors: Berry Brandon J. , Wojtovich Andrew P.
Published: May 2020

Developing new technologies to study metabolism is increasingly important as metabolic disease prevalence increases. Mitochondria control cellular metabolism and dynamic changes in mitochondrial function are associated with metabolic abnormalities in cardiovascular disease, cancer, and obesity. However, a lack of precise and reversible methods to control mitochondrial function has prevented moving from association to causation. Recent advances in optogenetics have addressed this challenge, and mitochondrial function can now be precisely controlled in vivo using light. A class of genetically encoded, light‐activated membrane channels and pumps has addressed mechanistic questions that promise to provide new insights into how cellular metabolism downstream of mitochondrial function contributes to disease. Here, we highlight emerging reagents—mitochondria‐targeted light‐activated cation channels or proton pumps—to decrease or increase mitochondrial activity upon light exposure, a technique we refer to as mitochondrial light switches, or mtSWITCH. The mtSWITCH technique is broadly applicable, as energy availability and metabolic signaling are conserved aspects of cellular function and health. Here, we outline the use of these tools in diverse cellular models of disease. We review the molecular details of each optogenetic tool, summarize the results obtained with each, and outline best practices for using optogenetic approaches to control mitochondrial function and downstream metabolism.
From pathways to roadways: Issues and challenges of road transport in Nagaland
Authors: Humtsoe Tumbenthung Y.
Published: May 2020

Modern transport was introduced in the Naga Hills by the British, initially to conquer the Hills, and then, the same was expanded to retain the conquered Hills. The colonial roads, however, even at the beginning of the 20th century were still largely of “bridle paths.” Significant capacity expansion in roads came only post‐statehood. However, the state of transport in Nagaland, even today, is still characterized by myriad issues and challenges. Against this backdrop, and in the light of a stagnant, regionally skewed underdeveloped economy of the province, it is imperative to invest in transport infrastructure and services. A survey of literature on “transport and development” shows that investment in transport in an economy like that of Nagaland brings about huge returns.
Sex differences betweenHelicobacter pyloriinfection and cholesterol levels in an adult health checkup program
Authors: Seo Kwang Il , Heo Jae Joon , Kim Sung Eun , Park Seun Ja , Park Moo In , Moon Won , Kim Jae Hyun , Jung Kyoungwon , Cho Dae Hyeon
Published: May 2020

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H pylori)infection is suggested to be a risk factor of metabolic syndrome (MS) and lipid abnormalities. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence ofH pyloriinfection on MS and lipid abnormalities according to sex differences.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed a total of 4551 adults who received health checkups from January 2016 to May 2017. We enrolled participants who did not have a history of hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, or cancer among those who underwent endoscopy with a rapid urease test.

Results

We included a total of 1065 participants, and 663 patients (62.3%) wereH pylori‐positive. TheH pyloriinfection rate was 59.3% (426/719) in males and 68.5% (237/346) in females. The mean level of total cholesterol (P = .003), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (P = .046), and triglycerides (P = .029) were statistically higher inH pylori‐infected males. The mean level of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was statistically lower inH pylori‐infected females (P = .032). Multivariate analysis showed that total cholesterol in males (odds ratio [OR], 1.007; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.002‐1.011) and HDL cholesterol in females (OR, 0.983; 95% CI, 0.968‐0.998) were associated with activeH pyloriinfection. The prevalence of MS was higher in both male and femaleH pylori‐infected groups; however, there was no statistical significance.

Conclusions

H pyloriinfection is significantly related to increased total cholesterol in males and to decreased HDL cholesterol in females, which suggests thatH pyloricould affect lipid profiles and may be different by sex.
Structure of CAS glass surfaces and electrostatic contact charging behavior: A joint simulation and experimental investigation
Authors: Agnello Gabriel , Wang Liaoyuan , Smith Nicholas , Manley Robert , Cormack Alastair
Published: May 2020

Surface structures of CAS models with various Al2O3/CaO ratios, (80:10:10), (70:15:15), (60:20:20), and (50:25:25), have been simulated using classical MD methods. Atomistic surface structures, CN and Qn distributions, radial distribution functions, z‐axis concentration profiles, and ring‐size distributions were employed to study the surface structures. While bridging oxygen (BO) and triclustered oxygen (TBO) surface concentrations closely mimic those observed in the bulk structures, nonbridging oxygen (NBO) concentration exhibits a nonlinear trend with composition. Surface analysis has also showed that both 3‐ and 5‐coordinated Al (AlC3 and AlC5) exist in the near‐surface region, with concentrations that differ from the respective bulk structures. There are enhancements in the concentrations of small (2‐ and 3‐membered) rings that are closely related with the spatial proximity of TBO to AlC5. These complexes, and their variations with glass composition, appear to be closely correlated with experimental electrostatic contact charging data.
Substitution and spill‐overs between early exit pathways in times of extending working lives in Europe
Authors: Riekhoff Aart‐Jan , Kuitto Kati , Palomäki Liisa‐Maria
Published: May 2020

This article investigates to what extent instrument substitution between early exit pathways took place in Europe between 1995 and 2015. Using Eurostat aggregate data on labour market inactivity and employment rates among the population aged 55–64 in 19 European countries, we analyse substitution effects between pathways and overall spill‐over effects into non‐employment. In spite of a strong decline in early exit and rises in older workers’ employment rates, findings suggest that instrument substitution was common especially between early retirement and disability. Reductions in early exit coincided with considerable spill‐overs into non‐employment, yet these spill‐overs were limited when pathways contracted simultaneously.
CUDC‐907, a novel dual PI3K and HDAC inhibitor, in prostate cancer: Antitumour activity and molecular mechanism of action
Authors: Hu Cheng , Xia Hongyan , Bai Shanshan , Zhao Jianlei , Edwards Holly , Li Xinyu , Yang Yanrong , Lyu Jing , Wang Guan , Zhan Yang , Dong Yan , Ge Yubin
Published: May 2020

Targeting the androgen receptor (AR) signalling pathway remains the main therapeutic option for advanced prostate cancer. However, resistance to AR‐targeting inhibitors represents a great challenge, highlighting the need for new therapies. Activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway and increased expression of histone deacetylases (HDACs) are common aberrations in prostate cancer, suggesting that inhibition of such targets may be a viable therapeutic strategy for this patient population. Previous reports demonstrated that combination of PI3K inhibitors (PI3KIs) with histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) resulted in synergistic antitumour activities against preclinical models of prostate cancer. In this study, we demonstrate that the novel dual PI3K and HDAC inhibitor CUDC‐907 has promising antitumour activity against prostate cancer cell lines in vitro and castration‐resistant LuCaP 35CR patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) mouse model in vivo. CUDC‐907‐induced apoptosis was partially dependent on Mcl‐1, Bcl‐xL, Bim and c‐Myc. Further, down‐regulation of Wee1, CHK1, RRM1 and RRM2 contributed to CUDC‐907‐induced DNA damage and apoptosis. In the LuCaP 35CR PDX model, treatment with CUDC‐907 resulted in significant inhibition of tumour growth. These findings support the clinical development of CUDC‐907 for the treatment of prostate cancer.
Mortality of people with intellectual disabilities during the 2017/2018 influenza epidemic in the Netherlands: potential implications for the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Cuypers M. , Schalk B. W. M. , Koks‐Leensen M. C. J. , Nägele M. E. , Bakker‐van Gijssel E. J. , Naaldenberg J. , Leusink G. L.
Published: May 2020

Background

Data on the development of Covid‐19 among people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) are scarce and it is uncertain to what extent general population data applies to people with ID. To give an indication of possible implications, this study investigated excess mortality patterns during a previous influenza epidemic.

Methods

Using Dutch population and mortality registers, a historical cohort study was designed to compare mortality during the 2017–2018 influenza epidemic with mortality in the same period in the three previous years. People with ID were identified by entitlements to residential ID‐care services as retrieved from a national database.

Results

Data covered the entire adult Dutch population (12.6 million; GenPop), of which 91 064 individuals were identified with an ID. During the influenza epidemic, mortality among people with ID increased almost three times as much than in the GenPop (15.2% vs. 5.4%), and more among male individuals with ID (+19.5%) than among female individuals with ID (+10.6%), as compared with baseline. In both cohorts, comparable increases in mortality within older age groups and due to respiratory causes were seen. Particularly in the ID‐cohort, excess deaths also occurred in younger age groups, due to endocrine diseases and ID‐specific causes.

Conclusions

During the 2017–2018 influenza epidemic, excess mortality among people with ID was three times higher than in the general Dutch population, appeared more often at young age and with a broader range of underlying causes. These findings suggest that a pandemic may disproportionally affect people with ID while population data may not immediately raise warnings. Early detection of diverging patterns and faster implementation of tailored strategies therefore require collection of good quality data.
Intralesional verapamil in the treatment of keloids: A clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical study
Authors: Abou‐Taleb Doaa A. E. , Badary Dalia M.
Published: May 2020

Introduction

The histopathological changes and immunohistochemical studies occurring in keloids in vivo after treatment by intralesional (IL) verapamil are not yet assessed. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety as well as the histological/immunohistochemical effects of intralesional verapamil on keloids.

Patients and methods

Thirty‐one patients with 43 keloids were treated with IL verapamil at 3‐week intervals until reaching complete flattening of the lesion or for a maximum of 6 sessions. Keloid biopsies were obtained before and after treatment for evaluation of histopathological changes and the immunohistochemical expression of VEGF and MMP9.

Results

Of 43 keloids, 6 keloids (14%) and 17 (39.5%) showed excellent and good improvement, respectively, with no significant side effects except for pain at the site of injection. Histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations were consistent with the clinical observations after treatment, and there was a statistically significant decrease in VEGF and MMP9 expressions after treatment.

Conclusion

IL verapamil is effective in the treatment of keloids which is possibly attributed to suppression of MMP9 and VEGF. It is a simple and relatively safe treatment method for keloids.
Scar management in patients after cleft lip repair–Systematic review Cleft lip scar management
Authors: Bartkowska Patrycja , Komisarek Oskar
Published: May 2020

Background

Cleft lip is a commonly occurring congenital development defect. Primary cleft lip repair leads to cleft scar formation. The resulting scar often undergoes hypertrophy, which negatively affects facial esthetics, function, and the patient's mental health.

Aims

The systematic review presented here was carried out to answer the following question: What cleft lip scar management options exist and how effective are they?

Methods

The systematic review of the articles on scar management methods in cleft lip patients was done in accordance with the PRISMA checklist. The literature search was conducted via the PubMed and Google Scholar databases.

Results

A total of 95 items were obtained. Finally, nine works have been included in the systematic review. Among the obtained works, there is a variety of cleft lip scar management methods. All the presented methods of cleft lip scar management proved to be effective in cleft scar therapy.

Conclusions

Cleft lip scar management should be considered as a constant and mandatory element of the treatment plan in cleft patients. It is also worth considering creating detailed protocols of conduct for cases of cleft lip scaring which pay attention to existing needs, prevention/correction and problems of superficiality and depth.
Factors related to heavy drinking between British Columbia Asian adolescents and South Korean adolescents
Authors: Joung Kyoung Hwa , Saewyc Elizabeth M.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study is to compare the factors related to heavy drinking among British Columbia (BC) Asian adolescents and South Korean adolescents.

Design and Methods

A cross‐sectional descriptive design was used. Participants were 72,422 adolescents (12,382 BC Asian adolescents and 60,040 South Korean adolescents) from the 2018 BC Adolescent Health Survey and the 2018 Korean Youth Risk Behavior Web‐Based Survey. Complex samples descriptive statistics, Rao–Scott χ2 tests, and complex samples logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

Heavy drinking was reported by 8.6% of BC Asian adolescents and 7.7% of South Korean adolescents. Asian adolescents in BC and South Korea shared six risk factors and one protective factor linked to odds of heavy drinking. The strongest risk factor for heavy drinking in each region was current cigarette smoking. Other risk factors for heavy drinking included older age/higher grade (10/12th), early initiation of sexual intercourse (age 14 or younger), experiences of bullying, depression, and exercise. The only protective factor for heavy drinking, sufficient sleep, was similar in both regions.

Practice Implications

This study suggests several nursing interventions and health promotion strategies to help us to prevent or reduce heavy drinking for BC Asian adolescents and South Korean adolescents.
A simple use of camera traps for photogrammetric estimation of wild animal traits
Authors: Cui S. , Chen D. , Sun J. , Chu H. , Li C. , Jiang Z.
Published: May 2020

The measurement of physical traits of animals is an important topic in animal ecology and wildlife management, but it is quite difficult to achieve an acceptable level of accuracy, especially for free‐ranging wild animals. As a non‐invasive method, camera trapping has become a common tool for detecting and monitoring wild animals. In this study, we combined camera‐trapping images and a photogrammetry technique to present a camera trap‐based photogrammetric estimation (CTPE) approach for robust measurement of morphological traits of animals. We first tested our method in a captive population of fallow deer (Dama dama) and compared the estimated shoulder heights by CTPE with corresponding hand measurements. The results revealed a remarkable accuracy, with an expected measurement error within ± 5 cm. Second, we mainly demonstrated a field application of CTPE in a wild population of Altai wapiti (Cervus elaphus sibiricus) in the Kanas National Nature Reserve, Xinjiang, China. For wapiti, we found that the average shoulder height of males was 135 ± 9 cm (mean ± sd, n = 30) and that of females was 125 ± 6 cm (n = 37), with all data significantly fitting a normal distribution. We did not find any differences in CTPE results among cameras, between photograph types (colour vs. black and white) or temperatures. No significant difference existed between our results and the hand‐measured shoulder heights of wapiti from deer farms. Finally, we discussed the strengths, limitations and potential extensions of the method. We suggest that the combination of camera trapping and the photogrammetry technique is quite promising and that CTPE has great potential in wildlife field investigations.
Glomerular filtration rate in liver transplant for unresectable hepatoblastoma
Authors: Peña Zavala Ruben , Marzouki Mounia , Beaunoyer Mona , Alvarez Fernando
Published: May 2020

Most children with hepatoblastoma manifest, at the time of LT, a decrease in renal function due to chemotherapy that could be further deteriorated by the use of calcineurin inhibitors. The purpose of this work was to examine the long‐term follow‐up of renal function in a cohort of children transplanted for unresectable hepatoblastoma. We present a retrospective observational study of 10 pediatric patients who received a LT for unresectable hepatoblastoma between 1996 and 2016. All patients included in this study were followed up on a regular basis and were assessed for GFR before transplantation and at least once a year during follow‐up. All patients received standardized chemotherapy treatment for hepatoblastoma and immunosuppression according to hospital protocols. There was a marked decrease in GFR at the time of the LT in five patients presenting renal complications during the pretransplant cycles of chemotherapy. Three patients, one of them with prior kidney involvement, presented complications after LT, namely acute kidney failure and decrease in GFR. Those patients who presented with the lowest GFR at the time of LT eventually recovered renal function at levels similar to the rest of the group on follow‐up. Chemotherapy‐induced nephrotoxicity is a concern in patients treated for hepatoblastoma. Some individuals will develop low GFR after chemotherapy; therefore, strict follow‐up is recommended, as low GFR may affect the doses of subsequent chemotherapy and immunosuppression. Stabilization of GFR levels and occasional improvement can be observed in the post‐transplant period.
Interleukin‐13 induces paralysis of Haemonchus contortus larvae in vitro
Authors: Shepherd Elizabeth , Greiner Scott P. , Russ Brynnan , Bowdridge Scott A.
Published: May 2020

Aims

Interleukin‐13 (IL‐13) is a Th2‐associated cytokine that typically induces gut contractility and mucus secretion to eliminate helminth parasites from the digestive tract. Little evidence exists of IL‐13's direct effect on Haemonchus contortus larvae (L3) and thus was the objective of this study.

Methods

To test effects of IL‐13 on H contortus, L3 were treated with ovine recombinant (r) IL‐13 (1 μg/mL); motility and morbidity were assessed. Monocytes isolated from H contortus‐resistant St. Croix (STC) and susceptible Suffolk (SUF) sheep were treated with anti–IL‐13 blocking antibody to elucidate differences in host immune response.

Results

rIL‐13 treatment reduced L3 speed (27 μm/s) and distance (7.5 μm) compared to untreated L3 (speed: 94 μm/s; distance: 27 μm) (P < .001). Comparison of larval speed to known paralytic levamisole (LEV) revealed no difference between treatments (rIL13: 23 μm/s; LEV 27 μm/s). Additionally, rIL‐13 had no effect on larval morbidity. Blocking IL‐13 reduced monocyte‐driven larval morbidity (0.13 μmol/L ATP) and increased larval motility (88 μm/s; 27 μm) compared to larvae treated with STC‐monocytes alone (0.07 μM ATP; 34 μm/s; 8 μm) (P < .05).

Conclusions

These data indicate IL‐13 has a dual capability paralysing L3 and contributing to monocyte‐driven larval morbidity, and also indicate breed differences.
Social Cure Processes Help Lower Intergroup Anxiety Among Neighborhood Residents
Authors: Stevenson Clifford , Costa Sebastiano , Easterbrook Matthew J. , McNamara Niamh , Kellezi Blerina
Published: May 2020

Research in the social cure tradition shows that groups can reduce members' stress by providing support to cope with challenges, but it has yet to consider how this applies to the anxiety occasioned by outgroups. Research on intergroup contact has extensively examined how reducing intergroup anxiety improves attitudes towards outgroups, but it has yet to examine the role of intragroup support processes in facilitating this. The present article takes the case of residential contact, in which the impact of diversification upon neighborhood cohesion is hotly debated, but the role of neighborhood identification and social support from neighbors in facilitating residential mixing has been largely ignored. Our surveys of two geographically bounded communities in England (n = 310; n = 94) and one in Northern Ireland (n = 206) show that neighborhood identification predicts both well‐being and more positive feelings towards outgroups, with both effects occurring via increased intragroup support. In studies 2 and 3, we show that this positive effect on feelings towards the outgroup occurs independently of that of intergroup contact and is further explained by the effect of neighborhood support in reducing intergroup anxiety. This suggests that social cure processes can improve intergroup attitudes by supporting group members to deal with the stress of intergroup interactions.
Importancia cultural de especies forestales útiles, en tres comunidades de la Sierra de Huautla, Morelos, México
Authors: Burgos Herrera Bogard , Saldaña Fernández María Cristina , López Medellín Xavier
Published: May 2020

En la Sierra de Huautla domina la selva baja caducifolia (SBC), presenta gran diversidad de flora y fauna. Los habitantes de este ecosistema cuentan con limitadas fuentes de empleo y una alternativa de subsistencia ha sido el aprovechamiento de recursos forestales. El objetivo de la investigación fue identificar la importancia cultural de especies forestales como parte de los procesos de desarrollo rural, en tres comunidades de la Sierra de Huautla.
Se calculó el Índice de Dominancia Cultural de Plantas Útiles para Especies Forestales (DCPU’f). La mayor DCPU’f fue para: Cuachalalate (Amphiterigium adstringens Schltdl), Cuatecomate (Crescentia alata Kunth), Palo Brasil (Haematoxylum brasiletto Karsten), Palo dulce (Eysenhardtia polystachya (Ort.) Sarg.) Cubata (Acacia coclichanta), Tecolohuixtle (Mimosa benthamii R. Grether y A. Martínez) y Tepemezquite (Lysiloma divaricatum Jacq. J.F. Macbr.), catalogadas como multipropósito.
Manejo del fuego como alternativa frente a los incendios forestales. El caso del Parque Entrenubes
Authors: Quiroga Palacio Marcos Edwin , Santiago Villa Henry Margoth
Published: May 2020

Es necesario entender el fuego como un fenómeno que hace parte de la dinámica de los socioecosistemas, debe tenerse una visión holística que va más allá de la simple supresión del mismo, forma actual de manejar los incendios forestales en Colombia. Este artículo hace un análisis del manejo del fuego para el Parque Ecológico Distrital de Montaña Entrenubes (Peden), en la ciudad de Bogotá D.C., orientado desde las Ciencias Ambientales y la ecología del fuego, donde se analizan las condiciones históricas y actuales de la incidencia de incendios en términos de número de incidentes, superficie afectada y distribución espacial; esto permite determinar la importancia de conocer el régimen actual de incendios para entender mejor el papel del fuego en este socioecosistema.
Experimental Analysis of a Novel Solar Pond Driven Thermoelectric Energy System
Authors: Goswami Rohtash , Das Ranjan
Published: May 2020

This paper describes an experimental study on a combined assembly of a solar pond and two-phase thermosyphon toward thermoelectric power generation under actual weather conditions and proposes its mandatory association with the biomass energy-based system. Experiments under the studied solar radiation intensity ranging between 26 W/m2 and 976 W/m2 reveal that the maximum steady-state temperature potential during the actual operation of a solar pond is not sufficient to generate the minimum threshold thermoelectric voltage for deriving necessary power needed to recharge a 12 V battery. It is also highlighted that solar radiation heats both the upper and the lower layers nearly equally; however, the heat is lost at a faster rate from the upper layer than the lower layer. Consequently, with the passage of time, the temperature of the lower layer rises, and interestingly, the probability of obtaining maximum voltage during a day is maximum during the early morning. Under the present set of conditions, the maximum temperature gain is 26.58 °C, whereas a minimum temperature potential of 45.62 °C is found necessary to produce the required voltage. The economic analysis of the proposed system reveals that the electricity generation obtained from the proposed system is better than diesel power generation. In particular, the system is suitable for locations where access to the conventional grid-based power is difficult. The work opens opportunities and establishes the necessity of developing low-cost thermoelectric materials for further improving the cost of power generation.
Laser-Based Fabrication of Carbon Nanotube–Metal Composites on a Polymer Substrate: Experimental Study and Characterizations
Authors: Kang Zheng , Tripathi Jitendra Kumar , Wang Muxuan , Hassanein Ahmed , Wu Benxin
Published: May 2020

Flexible electronic devices have several advantages and multiple current or potential applications. However, the reliability and durability of their metal components (which often exist) may suffer from large and repeated strains during many applications. Carbon nanotube (CNT)-metal composite films that were laser-sintered on flexible substrates were shown to be very promising in addressing the reliability and durability issues. However, to the authors’ best knowledge, CNT–metal interfaces in a laser-sintered CNT–metal composite film on a polymer substrate and the composite–polymer interface have not been sufficiently characterized and understood. In this paper, CNT–silver composite films were produced on polyimide substrates by laser sintering, and the fabricated samples were characterized through scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Under the conditions studied, it has been found that: (1) for the CNT–silver interfaces in the composite, a significant amount of Ag–C chemical bonds is unlikely to exist, and (2) for the composite–polyimide interface, mechanical interlocking is expected to play an important role in the interfacial adhesion, while a significant diffusion of silver into the polyimide substrate is not observed. Besides, chemical reactions have likely occurred around the interface, causing the formation of Ag2O due to the reaction between silver from the composite and oxygen (in a certain form) from the polyimide substrate.