bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Perceptual Shock of Qatar Foreign Policy in 2017 Crisis: Systemic Factors, Regional Struggles Versus Domestic Variables
Authors: Berni Hazal Muslu El
Published: December 2020

The Qatar crisis of June 2017 commenced without a warning and restored overlooked regional security dynamics to the state, the political elite, and the Qatari society at large. Qatar was cautious about the diversions of its foreign policy from regional security perceptions of its neighbors, even before the crisis, despite its failure to predict imminent political consequences, emerging from some states within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). In the aftermath of the crisis, critical narratives of the neighboring states on Qatar’s independent policies intimidated at the top leadership level and necessitates an analysis of the crisis, navigating through domestic settings facing systemic and regional pressures. This article aims to analyze the impact of the crisis on the perceptions of Qatari decision-makers, its society, and its tribes using the “perceptual shock” concept of neoclassical realism. It contends that despite the ongoing regional isolation of Qatar by the Saudi-led quartet, comprising Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Egypt, Qatar’s state apparatus and its relations with the society continued to strengthen due to the complex relationship between the domestic variables and systemic factors, and their relation to regional dynamics.
Delivering Health Education Curriculum Online in the Wake of COVID-19
Authors: Nava Buenfil Fernanda , Higgs Peter , Gupta Sabrina
Published: December 2020

The core skills taught in the subject “Health Education Development” at La Trobe University are essential for students studying health promotion. As part of this subject, students are supported to adopt the role of a health education and development facilitator in delivering tailored sessions to their peers. In these simulated sessions, students engage in the practice (and teaching) of cooperative learning addressing the needs of vulnerable population groups across different settings. COVID-19 forced the delivery of this subject to an online-only model with little time for preparation. Changes that were introduced as a response to this transition included online workshops replacing face-to-face (F2F), modification of the F2F component of assessments to online, F2F workshop content adapted to online version, implementation of a “coteaching” model for the initial 3 weeks post-COVID-19 lockdown, and weekly online sessions held with the teaching team. The use of innovative activities provided ongoing feedback, which informed timely actions to improve and continue with the successfully delivery of the subject.
Central Eastern European cities within multi-level transnational company networks: cores, peripheries and diffusion of innovation
Authors: Zdanowska Natalia
Published: December 2020

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, Central Eastern European cities (CEEc) integrated the globalised networks characterised by hierarchical interactions between cities. This article aims at revisiting the core-periphery and spatial diffusion of innovations paradigms among CEEc within multi-level interurban transnational company networks regardless of CEEc size in 2013. This article contributes to confirm that in spite of presenting less complex economic functions than the large urban centres, medium-sized and small cities, still involved in relations from the communist past, are bottom-up drivers of future innovations. These cities should be targeted by regional policies to reach the polycentric model of urban systems promoted by the European Union.
Predicting vibrancy of metro station areas considering spatial relationships through graph convolutional neural networks: The case of Shenzhen, China
Authors: Xiao Longzhu , Lo Siuming , Zhou Jiangping , Liu Jixiang , Yang Linchuan
Published: December 2020

Vibrancy is one of the most desirable outcomes of transit-oriented development (TOD). The vibrancy of a metro station area (MSA) depends partially on the MSA’s built-environment features. Predicting an MSA’s vibrancy with its built-environment features is of great interest to decision makers as these features are often modifiable by public interventions. However, little has been done on MSAs’ vibrancy in existing studies. On the one hand, seldom has the vibrancy of MSAs been explicitly explored, and measuring the vibrancy is essential. On the other hand, because MSAs are interconnected, one MSA’s vibrancy depends on the MSA’s features and those of relevant MSAs. Hence, selecting a suitable metric that quantifies spatial relationships between MSAs can better predict MSAs’ vibrancy. In this study, we identify four single-dimensional vibrancy proxies and fuse them into an integrated index. Moreover, we design a two-layer graph convolutional neural network model that accounts for both the built-environment features of MSAs and spatial relationships between MSAs. We employ the model in an empirical study in Shenzhen, China, and illustrate (1) how different metrics of spatial relationships influence the prediction of MSAs’ vibrancy; (2) how the predictability varies across single-dimensional and integrated proxies of MSAs’ vibrancy; and (3) how the findings of this study can be used to enlighten decision makers. This study enriches our understandings of spatial relationships between MSAs. Moreover, it can help decision makers with targeted policies for developing MSAs towards TOD.
Walkability scoring: Why and how does a three-dimensional pedestrian network matter?
Authors: Zhao Jianting , Sun Guibo , Webster Chris
Published: December 2020

Previous walkability scoring systems are all based on road networks, even though roads are not designed for pedestrians. To calculate an accurate walking score, we need pedestrian network data. This is especially the case in cities such as Hong Kong, where pedestrians are separated from vehicles by footbridges, underpasses or surface sidewalks. In this paper, we investigate why and how a three-dimensional pedestrian network makes a difference in walkability scoring, using Hong Kong as a case city. We developed a walkability scoring system based on networks and amenities, using multiple open-source programming platforms and languages. Separately, we calculated walkability scores (on a scale of 0–100) using the three-dimensional pedestrian network and road network of the city, comparing the differences between the two. A GIS raster analysis was conducted to extract walkability scoring differences from the two walkability surfaces, followed by a univariate linear model to examine how the scores were underestimated if without using the three-dimensional pedestrian network. Results show that streets were considered twice as walkable if rated by pedestrian network rather than road network. Walkability scores were 92% higher on average. The fitted model shows that the mean score underestimations were significantly different for different three-dimensional network elements. Surface sidewalks had an average underestimation of 33.75 (p < 0.001), footbridges and underground paths expanded the underestimations by 3.85 and 2.97 (both p < 0.001), respectively, and the linkages to footbridge and underground path enlarged the surface sidewalk underestimations by 2.68 and 4.92 (both p < 0.001). We suggest that walkability evaluation systems should be developed on pedestrian networks instead of road networks, especially for high-density cities.
Temporal Profile of Olfactory Dysfunction in COVID‐19
Authors: Loftus Patricia A. , Roland Lauren T. , Gurrola Jose G. , Cheung Steven W. , Chang Jolie L.
Published: December 2020

Objective

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is associated with olfactory dysfunction, but the evolution of the olfactory loss and timeline to recovery are largely unknown. This study examines changes in smell sensitivity in COVID‐19–positive (COVID+) and COVID‐19–negative (COVID–) viral illness during the initial weeks after infection.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional cohort comparison.

Setting

National anonymous surveys.

Methods

Survey participants were queried about smell sensitivity and general health status at the time of COVID‐19 testing and in the weeks that followed.

Results

In total, 375 (174 COVID+, 201 COVID–) participants completed the survey and 132 (62 COVID+, 70 COVID–) participants completed the 2‐week follow‐up survey. Normal smell in the COVID+ cohort was less frequent at the time of testing and at follow up (P <. 05). Dynamic changes in smell sensitivity in the COVID+ cohort were more frequent in the initial weeks (P <. 001). In those with normosmia at the start of infection, 38% of the COVID+ cohort reported worsening smell compared to only 8% in the COVID– cohort (P <. 05). Recovery of overall health was associated with normosmia at the time of infection and improvement of smell sensitivity within weeks of infection.

Conclusion

The COVID+ cohort showed greater dynamic change in smell sensitivity and a higher rate of persistent olfactory dysfunction in the weeks after infection. Normal smell at the time of COVID‐19 infection may still worsen before recovery. Overall health recovery after viral illness is associated with improvement in smell sensitivity and the absence of initial anosmia or hyposmia.
Neuroplasticity in children and adolescents in response to treatment intervention: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Weyandt Lisa L , Clarkin Christine M , Holding Emily Z , May Shannon E , Marraccini Marisa E , Gudmundsdottir Bergljot Gyda , Shepard Emily , Thompson Lauren
Published: December 2020

The purpose of the present study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, regarding evidence of neuroplasticity in children and adolescents in response to cognitive or sensory-motor interventions. Twenty-eight studies employing seven different types of neuroimaging techniques were included in the review. Findings revealed that significant variability existed across the 28 studies with regard to the clinical populations examined, type of interventions employed, neuroimaging methods, and the type of neuroimaging data included in the studies. Overall, results supported that experience-dependent interventions were associated with neuroplastic changes among children and adolescents in both neurotypical and clinical populations. However, it remains unclear whether these molecular neuroplastic changes, including the degree and direction of those differences, were the direct result of the intervention. Although the findings are encouraging, methodological limitations of the studies limit clinical utility of the results. Future studies are warranted that rigorously define the construct of neuroplasticity, establish consistent protocols across measurement techniques, and have adequate statistical power. Lastly, studies are needed to identify the functional and structural neuroplastic mechanisms that correspond with changes in cognition and behavior in child and adolescent samples.
Enhancing Employee Stress Resilience (Wellness): A Study of Women Leaders in Asia Pacific
Authors: Vaidyanathan Subba , Mahapatra Gopal
Published: December 2020

We live in an era of globalisation where technology, automation and digital networks drive disruptions in various spheres of life, work, family, health and society. They have increased productivity, ease of working and material comfort for humans worldwide, along with accelerating the pace of work and life. With the continued growth of technology, we are on the verge of Industry 4.0. The implications are changing at a fast pace and are associated with negative impact on health and wellness, as employees struggle to cope. In the last two decades, there has appeared a growing awareness of the need for total wellness, with implications for employee engagement and productivity. In the recent months, COVID-19 has caused further pressure on mental health, with employees struggling with anxiety, stress and depression, when organisations need them to be fully engaged, focused and making critical decisions.

In this article, the authors highlight the need to equip employees with tools to build total resilience: physical, mental and spiritual. They propose a toolbox called ‘R-box’ (resilience box) to enhance employees’ ability to perform under stress. The toolkit is developed from the perspective that employees and leaders see themselves as corporate athletes ( Loehr & Schwartz, 2001 ) and train themselves as athletes do, so as to sustain high levels of performance and, in the process, achieve high personal growth. Considering time as a major resource constraint for low adoption, R-box uses a range of mini-interventions, focused on the four areas of ‘run’ (body movement), ‘refresh’ (nutrition), ‘restore’ (sleep) and ‘rebalance’ (mind-related).

Being Strong is a programme for leaders which has been running for a few years in Asia-Pacific (APAC). ‘R-box’ is central to this programme. An exploratory study was conducted with women leaders in Southeast Asia, especially from Malaysia and Indonesia, who were a part of the Being Strong programme. In the study, the authors try to find out how the R-box toolkit, practised by the participants over 12 weeks, has impacted their ability to deal with stress and grow their resilience.

This article elaborates the findings of the survey conducted in 2020, 90 days after the programme. The survey showed over 80 per cent adoption by the participants. Further, over 85 per cent of those who adopted the toolkit saw an improvement in their ability to deal with stress with enhanced resilience. This appears to demonstrate the usefulness of R-box as a powerful toolkit for enhancing resilience.

Based on the above, the authors propose the study to be extended to a larger audience in Southeast Asia and beyond. They also recommend HR to play a lead role in bringing wellness, as a driver of employee engagement and productivity. This has implications for the immediate situation of COVID-19 pandemic-impacted work and life, and the future of work too.
Choosing the frequency of follow-up in longitudinal studies: Is more necessarily better?
Authors: Pullenayegum Eleanor M , Xi Yao , Lim Lily , Levin Jessie , Feldman Brian M
Published: December 2020

Background

Follow-up frequency is an important design parameter in longitudinal studies. We quantified the impact of reducing follow-up frequency on the precision of estimated regression parameters, and investigated the impact of incorrectly assuming an exchangeable correlation structure on estimates of the loss of precision resulting from reduced follow-up.

Methods

We estimated the loss in precision on deleting every second observation from three longitudinal cohorts: patients with Childhood Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (cSLE), the Canadian Haemophilia Prophylaxis Study (CHPS), and patients with Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM). We compared these results with those from a theoretical formula assuming an exchangeable correlation structure.

Results

The increase in sample size needed to compensate for halving follow-up frequency was 9%, 6% and 28% for the cSLE, CHPS and JDM cohorts respectively. Under the assumption of an exchangeable correlation, the estimated increases in sample size were 22%, 11% and 10% respectively.

Conclusions

Reducing follow-up frequency can result in minimal loss of information, as seen in the CHPS cohort. While using a theoretical formula based on an exchangeable correlation structure is convenient, it can be inaccurate when the true correlation structure is not exchangeable.
A Possible Etiopathogenic Role of Sickle Cell Anemia in Ischemia With Nonobstructive Coronary Arteries
Authors: Asamoah Kofi Tekyi
Published: December 2020

Chest pain is a common clinical symptom, especially in patients with sickle cell anemia. Owing to the vast differential diagnosis, investigation can be challenging. Typical chest pain (angina) is often attributed to obstructive coronary artery disease, with patients being referred for exercise stress tests for confirmation.

Microvascular angina is emerging as a cause of significant morbidity worldwide, clinically identical to obstructive coronary artery disease. Clinical assessment and exercise stress testing often give the same results, making differentiation difficult. Coronary angiography however shows either normal coronary arteries or a nonobstructive lesion. An incomplete understanding of the etiopathogenesis of microvascular angina may result in missed diagnosis and suboptimal treatment in some cases.

Coronary microvascular dysfunction plays a key role in this phenomenon, driven by chronic inflammation, thrombotic microangiopathy, and endothelial dysfunction. This article reports the case of a young man with chest pain, linking the highlights of the pathophysiology of microvascular disease in sickle cell anemia to microvascular angina.
Therapeutic and diagnostic advances in Stickler syndrome
Authors: Snead Martin , Martin Howard , Bale Peter , Shenker Nick , Baguley David , Alexander Philip , McNinch Annie , Poulson Arabella
Published: December 2020

The Stickler syndromes are the leading cause of inherited retinal detachment and the most common cause of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in childhood. The clinical and molecular genetic spectrum of this connective tissue disorder is discussed in this article, emphasising the key role the ophthalmologist has to play in the identification, diagnosis and prevention of blindness in the increasingly widely recognised sub-groups with ocular-only (or minimal systemic) involvement. Without diagnosis and prophylaxis in such high-risk subgroups, these patients are at high risk of Giant Retinal Tear detachment and blindness, especially in the paediatric population, where late or second eye involvement is common. Initially considered a monogenic disorder, there are now known to be at least 11 distinct phenotypic subgroups in addition to allied connective tissue disorders that can present to the clinician as part of the differential diagnosis.

Plain language summary

Treatment and diagnostic advances in Stickler syndrome The Stickler syndromes are a group of related connective tissue disorders that are associated with short-sight and a very high risk of blindness from detachment of the retina – the light sensitive film at the back of the eye. Other features include cleft palate, deafness and premature arthritis. It is the most common cause of retinal detachment in children and the most common cause of familial or inherited retinal detachment. In contrast to most other forms of blinding genetic eye disease, blindness from retinal detachment in Stickler syndrome is largely avoidable with accurate diagnosis and prophylactic (preventive) surgery. Recent advances in the understanding of the genetic causes of Stickler syndrome mean that the diagnosis can now be confirmed in over 95% of cases and, most importantly, the patient’s individual risk of retinal detachment can be graded. Preventative surgery is hugely effective in reducing the incidence of retinal detachment in those patients shown to be at high risk. NHS England have led the way in the multidisciplinary care for patients with Stickler syndrome by launching a highly specialist service that has been free at point of care to all NHS patients in England since 2011 ( https://www.england.nhs.uk/commissioning/spec-services/highly-spec-services , www.vitreoretinalservice.org )
The clinical use of time-lapse in human-assisted reproduction
Authors: Minasi Maria Giulia , Greco Pierfrancesco , Varricchio Maria Teresa , Barillari Paolo , Greco Ermanno
Published: December 2020

A major challenge in the assisted reproduction laboratory is to set up reproducible and efficient criteria to identify the embryo with the highest developmental potential. Over the years, several methods have been used worldwide with this purpose. Initially, standard morphology assessment was the only available strategy. It is now universally recognized that besides being a very subjective embryo selection strategy, morphology evaluation alone has a very poor prognostic value. More recently, the availability of time-lapse incubators allowed a continuous monitoring of human embryo development. This technology has spread quickly and many fertility clinics over the world produced a remarkable amount of data. To date, however, a general consensus on which variables, or combination of variables, should play a central role in embryo selection is still lacking. Many confounding factors, concerning both patient features and clinical and biological procedures, have been observed to influence embryo development. In addition, several studies have reported unexpected positive outcomes, even in the presence of abnormal developmental criteria. While it does not seem that time-lapse technology is ready to entirely replace the more invasive preimplantation genetic testing in identifying the embryo with the highest implantation potential, it is certainly true that its application is rapidly growing, becoming progressively more accurate. Studies involving artificial intelligence and deep-learning models as well as combining morphokinetic with other non-invasive markers of embryo development, are currently ongoing, raising hopes for its successful applicability for clinical purpose in the near future. The present review mainly focuses on data published starting from the first decade of 2000, when time-lapse technology was introduced as a routine clinical practice in the infertility centers.
Hybrid nanocomposites of elastomeric polyurethane containing halloysite nanotubes and POSS nanoparticles: tensile, hardness, damping and abrasion performance
Authors: Mohamed Salma Taher , Tirkes Seha , Akar Alinda Oyku , Tayfun Umit
Published: December 2020

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) matrix was reinforced with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) and halloysite nanotubes (HNT), both separately and combined. Composite samples were fabricated using a melt-compounding method. Characterization of the composites obtained was performed via tensile and hardness tests, melt-flow index measurements (MFI), abrasion tests, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to investigate the mechanical performance, flow behaviour, tribological characteristics, thermo-mechanical response and morphological properties. The greatest tensile strength value was obtained for the smallest HNT content. Further addition of HNT resulted in agglomerations for both POSS and HNT particles. The shore hardness of TPU was enhanced by filler inclusions. The TPU/POSS composites displayed significant improvement in terms of abrasion resistance compared to TPU at lower loading levels. The DMA study showed that composites containing 0.5% POSS and 1.0% HNT displayed the greatest storage modulus. The glass-transition temperature of TPU shifted to smaller values with the addition of both nanoparticles. The HNT inclusions increased the MFI value of TPU because of their large aspect ratio. Homogeneous mixing of nanoparticles in the TPU matrix was confirmed by a SEM study of the composites. Their dispersion decreased as the concentrations of POSS and HNT increased. An adjuvant effect of POSS with HNT was achieved in their hybrid composites.
Biomarker-guided preemption of steroid-refractory graft-versus-host disease with α-1-antitrypsin
Authors: Gergoudis Stephanie C. , DeFilipp Zachariah , Özbek Umut , Sandhu Karamjeet S. , Etra Aaron M. , Choe Hannah K. , Kitko Carrie L. , Ayuk Francis , Aziz Mina , Baez Janna , Ben-David Kaitlyn , Bunworasate Udomsak , Gandhi Isha , Hexner Elizabeth O. , Hogan William J. , Holler Ernst , Kasikis Stelios , Kowalyk Steven M. , Lin Jung-Yi , Merli Pietro , Morales George , Nakamura Ryotaro , Reshef Ran , Rösler Wolf , Srinagesh Hrishikesh , Young Rachel , Chen Yi-Bin , Ferrara James L. M. , Levine John E.
Published: December 2020

Steroid-refractory (SR) acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a major cause of nonrelapse mortality (NRM) after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), but its occurrence is not accurately predicted by pre-HCT clinical risk factors. The Mount Sinai Acute GVHD International Consortium (MAGIC) algorithm probability (MAP) identifies patients who are at high risk for developing SR GVHD as early as 7 days after HCT based on the extent of intestinal crypt damage as measured by the concentrations of 2 serum biomarkers, suppressor of tumorigenesis 2 and regenerating islet-derived 3α. We conducted a multicenter proof-of-concept “preemptive” treatment trial of α-1-antitrypsin (AAT), a serine protease inhibitor with demonstrated activity against GVHD, in patients at high risk for developing SR GVHD. Patients were eligible if they possessed a high-risk MAP on day 7 after HCT or, if initially low risk, became high risk on repeat testing at day 14. Thirty high-risk patients were treated with twice-weekly infusions of AAT for a total of 16 doses, and their outcomes were compared with 90 high-risk near-contemporaneous MAGIC control patients. AAT treatment was well tolerated with few toxicities, but it did not lower the incidence of SR GVHD compared with controls (20% vs 14%, P = .56). We conclude that real-time biomarker-based risk assignment is feasible early after allogeneic HCT but that this dose and schedule of AAT did not change the incidence of SR acute GVHD. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03459040.
Feasibility of three-dimensional facial imaging and printing for producing customised nasal masks for continuous positive airway pressure
Authors: Duong Kelvin , Glover Joel , Perry Alexander C. , Olmstead Deborah , Ungrin Mark , Colarusso Pina , MacLean Joanna E. , Martin Andrew R.
Published: December 2020

Rationale

Delivery of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea in children and adults. Treatment adherence is a major challenge, as many patients find the CPAP mask uncomfortable. The study aim was to demonstrate the feasibility of delivered CPAP through customised nasal masks by assessing mask leak and comfort of customised masks compared to commercially available CPAP masks.

Methods

Six healthy adult volunteers participated in a crossover study including commercial masks in three different sizes (petite, small/medium and large) from the same supplier and a customised mask fabricated for each subject using three-dimensional facial scanning and modern additive manufacturing processes. Mask leak and comfort were assessed with varying CPAP levels and mask tightness. Leak was measured in real time using an inline low-resistance Pitot tube flow sensor, and each mask was ranked for comfort by the subjects.

Results

Mask leak rates varied directly with CPAP level and inversely with mask tightness. When ranked for comfort, three subjects favoured the customised mask, while three favoured a commercial mask. The petite mask yielded the highest mask leaks and was ranked least comfortable by all subjects. Relative mask leaks and comfort rankings for the other commercial and customised masks varied between individuals. Mask leak was comparable when comparing the customised masks with the highest ranked commercial masks.

Conclusion

Customised masks successfully delivered target CPAP settings in all six subjects, demonstrating the feasibility of this approach.
Underestimation of COVID-19 mortality during the pandemic
Authors: Kung Stacey , Doppen Marjan , Black Melissa , Braithwaite Irene , Kearns Ciléin , Weatherall Mark , Beasley Richard , Kearns Nethmi
Published: December 2020

Background

There has been considerable international variation in mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this study was to investigate the differences between mortality registered as due to COVID-19 and the excess all-cause mortality reported in countries worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Ecological analysis of 22 countries compared 5-year historical all-cause mortality, reported all-cause mortality and expected all-cause mortality (calculated as historical mortality plus the reported deaths attributed to COVID-19). Data available from the first week of January 2020 to that most recently available were analysed.

Results

Compared to the preceding 5 years, there was an excess of 716 616 deaths, of which 64.3% were attributed to COVID-19. The proportion of deaths registered as COVID-19-related/excess deaths varied markedly between countries, ranging between 30% and 197% in those countries that had an excess of deaths during the period of observation. In most countries where a definite peak in COVID-19-related deaths occurred, the increase in reported all-cause mortality preceded the increase in COVID-19 reported mortality. During the latter period of observation, a few countries reported fewer all-cause deaths than the historical figures.

Conclusion

The increases in all-cause mortality preceded the increase in COVID-19 mortality in most countries that had definite spikes in COVID-19 mortality. The number of deaths attributed to COVID-19 was underestimated by at least 35%. Together these findings suggest that calculation of excess all-cause mortality is a better predictor of COVID-19 mortality than the reported rates, in those countries experiencing definite increases in mortality.
Genome-wide analysis of the AREB/ABF gene lineage in land plants and functional analysis of TaABF3 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Fangfang , Mei Fangming , Zhang Yifang , Li Shumin , Kang Zhensheng , Mao Hude
Published: December 2020

Background

Previous studies have shown that ABFs (abscisic acid-responsive transcription factors) are important ABA-signaling components that participate in abiotic stress response. However, little is known about the function of ABFs inTriticum aestivum. In addition, although various ABFs have been identified in other species, the phylogenetic relationship between ABF transcription factors has not been systemically investigated in land plants.

Results

In this study, we systemically collected ABFs from land plants and analyzed the phylogenetic relationship of theseABFgenes. TheABFgenes are present in all the land plants we investigated, including moss, lycophyte, monocots, and eudicots. Furthermore, theseABFgenes are phylogenetically divided into seven subgroups, differentiations that are supported by variation in the gene structure, protein properties, and motif patterns. We further demonstrated that the expression ofABFgenes varies among different tissues and developmental stages, and are induced by one or more environmental stresses. Furthermore, we found that three wheatABFs(TaABF1,TaABF2,andTaABF3) were significantly induced by drought stress. Compared with wild-type (WT) plants, transgenicArabidopsisplants overexpressingTaABF3displayed enhanced drought tolerance.

Conclusions

These results provide important ground work for understanding the phylogenetic relationships between plantABFgenes. Our results also indicate thatTaABFsmay participate in regulating plant response to abiotic stresses.
Parents’ health information seeking behaviour – does the child’s health status play a role?
Authors: Baumann Isabel , Jaks Rebecca , Robin Dominik , Juvalta Sibylle , Dratva Julia
Published: December 2020

Background

Digital media are increasingly abundant providing a wide scope of health information. To date, very little is known about parental health information seeking behaviour for child health outside of English-speaking and Nordic countries. Our study “Digital parental counsellors” examines how parents search for health information in digital media, print media and among “personal contacts”, distinguishing between the search for information about general child health and development and child’s acute illness, and comparing information seeking behaviour by disability status of the child.

Methods

The population-based sample consisted of 769 parents with children aged 0–2 in the German-speaking region of Switzerland returning the study questionnaire (30% response rate). We developed a frequency score of use of different information sources and conducted bivariate and multivariate linear regression analyses to describe parental search behaviour and the association with child’s disability status.

Results

The sample consists of 88% mothers (mean age: 35.7 years SD 4.33). Children’s mean age is 16 months (SD 7.1), 49% of the children are female and 6% have a disability. Parents use digital media significantly more frequently to search for information about general health and development questions than about an acute child’s illness (p < 0.001). In case of acute child’s illness, parents refer to their paediatrician, family members and other personal contacts significantly more frequently than other information sources (p < 0.001). The use of digital media and “personal contacts” does not significantly vary between parents with and without a disabled child, whereas the use of print media does (p < 0.02). Moreover, irrespective of disability, 45% of parents resort to the Internet prior to a paediatric visit and 27% after a visit when a visit did not answer all questions.

Conclusions

Despite the high prevalence of digital media, personal contacts are still the most frequent health information resource for parents with young children, irrespective of the child’s health. Parents combine all information resources (online, print, personal network) to improve their understanding or check the validity of information received regarding their child’s health. It is thus of utmost importance, that the increasingly accessed digital information parents search for is correct, understandable and addresses parent’s concerns.

Trial registration

BASEC Req-2017-00817 (30 October 2017).
Validation of the interview-based life-space assessment in institutionalized settings (LSA-IS) for older persons with and without cognitive impairment
Authors: Hauer Klaus , Ullrich Phoebe , Heldmann Patrick , Hummel Saskia , Bauer Jürgen M. , Werner Christian
Published: December 2020

Background

Self-reported life-space assessment methods so far focus on community-dwelling persons, with a lack of validated assessment methods for institutionalized settings. This study evaluated construct validity, test-retest reliability, sensitivity to change, and feasibility of a new Life-Space Assessment for Institutionalized Settings (LSA-IS) in geriatric patients.

Methods

Psychometric properties of the LSA-IS in 119 hospitalized geriatric patients (83.0 ± 6.2 years) with and without cognitive impairment (CI) [Mini-Mental State Examination: 22.4 ± 4.9 scores] were evaluated within a comprehensive validation design. For the total group and subgroups according to cognitive status, construct validity was assessed by calculating Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients (rho) with established construct variables, test–retest reliability by intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs), sensitivity to change by standardized response means (SRMs) calculated for effects of early ward-based rehabilitation during hospital stay.

Results

The LSA-IS (total score) demonstrated good test–retest reliability (ICC = .704), and large sensitivity to change (SRM = .806), while construct validity was small to high indicated by significant correlations of the LSA-IS to construct variables (rho = .208–716), depending on relative construct association. On average results of LSA-IS sub-scores confirmed results of the total score. Subgroups according to cognitive status did not differ for most analyzed variables. A completion rate of 100% and a completion time of 3.2 ± 1.2 min documented excellent feasibility.

Conclusions

The interview-based LSA-IS has proven to be valid, reliable, sensitive, and feasible in hospitalized, multi-morbid, geriatric patients with and without CI documenting good psychometric properties for institutionalized settings.

Trial registration

DRKS00016028
Pathological responses to low-dose irradiation and Pepleomycin in Oral squamous cell carcinoma are predictive of Locoregional control
Authors: Katagiri Tomohiro , Ohyama Yoshio , Miyamoto Hideo , Egawa Yuki , Moriki Toshiaki , Hasegawa Kazuki
Published: December 2020

Background

The prognosis of advanced oral cancer remains dismal. While multimodal therapy is beneficial, maintaining the quality of life of long-term survivors is important. Therefore, risk-adapted treatment regimens need to be designed. We herein investigated whether pathological responses in oral cancer patients treated with preoperative chemoradiotherapy predict locoregional recurrence.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 51 oral cancer patients who received preoperative radiotherapy and concurrent pepleomycin, followed by curative surgery at our institution between January 2009 and June 2018. Each patient received preoperative external beam irradiation to the primary tumor and lymphatics (2 Gy per day for approximately 3 weeks) concurrent with pepleomycin (2.5 mg/day). Surgery was performed approximately 3–4 weeks after the completion of preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Pathological responses were defined based on the grading system of Oboshi and Shimosato.

Results

Eight, 22, 16, and 5 patients had Oboshi and Shimosato grades 2a, 2b, 3, and 4, respectively. Favorable pathological responses (grades 3 and 4) were observed in 41.2% of patients (21 out of 51 patients). The pathological response and number of pathological lymph node metastases were identified as significant prognostic factors for locoregional control in the univariate analysis. Three-year locoregional control rates were 100 and 56.6% in patients with favorable and unfavorable pathological responses, respectively.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that pathological tumor responses to preoperative chemoradiotherapy are a useful predictive factor for locoregional control.
Increased Association of Deamidated αA-N101D with Lens membrane of transgenic αAN101D vs. wild type αA mice: potential effects on intracellular ionic imbalance and membrane disorganization
Authors: Srivastava Om , Srivastava Kiran , Joseph Roy , Wilson Landon
Published: December 2020

We have generated two mouse models, in one by inserting the human lens αAN101D transgene in CRYαAN101Dmice, and in the other by inserting human wild-type αA-transgene in CRYαAWTmice. The CRYαAN101Dmice developed cortical cataract at about 7-months of age relative to CRYαAWTmice. The objective of the study was to determine the following relative changes in the lenses of CRYαAN101D- vs. CRYαAWTmice: age-related changes with specific emphasis on protein insolubilization, relative membrane-association of αAN101Dvs. WTαA proteins, and changes in intracellular ionic imbalance and membrane organization.

Methods

Lenses of varying ages from CRYαAWTand CRYαAN101Dmice were compared for an age-related protein insolubilization. The relative lens membrane-association of the αAN101D- and WTαA proteins in the two types of mice was determined by immunohistochemical-, immunogold-labeling-, and western blot analyses. The relative levels of membrane-binding of recombinant αAN101D- and WTαA proteins was determined by an in vitro assay, and the levels of intracellular Ca2+uptake and Na, K-ATPase mRNA were determined in the cultured epithelial cells from lenses of the two types of mice.

Results

Compared to the lenses of CRYαAWT, the lenses of CRYαAN101Dmice exhibited: (A) An increase in age-related protein insolubilization beginning at about 4-months of age. (B) A greater lens membrane-association of αAN101D- relative to WTαA protein during immunogold-labeling- and western blot analyses, including relatively a greater membrane swelling in the CRYαAN101Dlenses. (C) During in vitro assay, the greater levels of binding αAN101D- relative to WTαA protein to membranes was observed. (D) The 75% lower level of Na, K-ATPase mRNA but 1.5X greater Ca2+uptake were observed in cultured lens epithelial cells of CRYαAN101D-than those of CRYαAWTmice.

Conclusions

The results show that an increased lens membrane association of αAN101D-−relative WTαA protein in CRYαAN101Dmice than CRYαAWTmice occurs, which causes intracellular ionic imbalance, and in turn, membrane swelling that potentially leads to cortical opacity.
Understanding demand for, and feasibility of, centre-based child-care for poor urban households: a mixed methods study in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Elsey H. , Fieroze F. , Shawon R. A. , Nasreen S. , Hicks J. P. , Das M. , Huque R. , Hirano I. , Wallace H. J. , Saidur M.
Published: December 2020

Background

Centre-based child-care has potential to provide multiple health and development benefits to children, families and societies. With rapid urbanisation, increasing numbers of low-income women work with reduced support from extended family, leaving a child-care vacuum in many low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to understand perceptions of, and demand for, centre-based child-care in Dhaka, Bangladesh among poor, urban households, and test the feasibility of delivering sustainable centre-based child-care.

Methods

We used sequential mixed methods including a household survey (n = 222) and qualitative interviews with care-givers (n = 16), community leaders (n = 5) and policy-makers (n = 5). We co-produced and piloted a centre-based child-care model over ten-months, documenting implementation. A co-design focus group with mothers, parents’ meetings, and qualitative interviews with child-care centre users (n = 5), non-users (n = 3), ex-users (n = 3) and staff (2) were used to refine the model and identify implementation issues.

Results

We found 24% (95% CI: 16,37%) of care-givers reported turning-down paid work due to lack of child-care and 84% (95% CI:74, 91%) reported wishing to use centre-based child-care and were willing to pay up to 283 Takka (~$3.30) per month. Adjusted odds of reported need for child-care among slum households were 3.8 times those of non-slum households (95% CI: 1.4, 10). Implementation highlighted that poor households needed free child-care with food provided, presenting feasibility challenges. Meta-inference across quantitative and qualitative findings identified the impact of the urban environment on child-care through long working hours, low social capital and fears for child safety. These influences interacted with religious and social norms resulting in caution in using centre-based child-care despite evident need.

Conclusion

Sustainable provision of centre-based care that focuses on early childhood development requires subsidy and careful design sensitive to the working lives of poor families, particularly women and must respond to the dynamics of the urban environment and community values. We recommend increased research and policy focus on the evaluation and scale-up of quality centre-based child-care, emphasising early-childhood development, to support low-income working families in urban areas.
What do we know about the impact of sexual violence on health and health behaviour of women in Estonia?
Authors: Lippus Hedda , Laanpere Made , Part Kai , Ringmets Inge , Karro Helle
Published: December 2020

Background

Sexual violence against women is a major public health issue and a breach of human rights. Although various consequences of sexual violence on health have been described in a large number of scientific publications, very little is known about this topic in Estonia. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of sexual violence and associations between exposure to sexual violence and risky health and sexual behaviours among women in Estonia.

Methods

A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Estonia in 2014. Self-reported data regarding selected indicators of risky health and sexual behaviours were collected from 1670 women, aged 18–44 years, via a self-administered questionnaire. To measure the prevalence of sexual violence, questions from the NorVold Abuse Questionnaire were included. Chi-square and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyse the data.

Results

Of the respondents, 22.7% (n = 379) reported being exposed to sexual violence during their lifetime, and over half of these women had had these experiences before the age of 18. Statistically significant associations were found between sexual violence and smoking (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.32, 95% CI 1.03–1.70), alcohol consumption (AOR 1.52, 95% CI 1.18–1.95), illicit drug use (AOR 2.21, 95% CI 1.70–2.89), sexual intercourse for money or other material reward (AOR 3.51, 95% CI 1.62–7.61), concurrent sexual relationships (AOR 2.64; 95% CI 1.80–3.86), and being diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections (AOR 1.48, 95% CI 1.09–2.01).

Conclusions

In Estonia, sexual violence against women is widespread and is associated with several risky health and sexual behaviours. Efforts should be made, both among the general public and professionals, to raise awareness regarding the prevalence and negative impact of sexual violence. Women who have been exposed to sexual violence are in need of professional medical, legal and psychological help free from prejudice to help them recover from such traumatic events.
Characteristics of paediatric patients with tuberculosis and associated determinants of treatment success in Malaysia using the MyTB version 2.1 database over five years
Authors: Awaluddin S. Maria , Ismail Nurhuda , Zakaria Yuslina , Yasin Siti Munira , Razali Asmah , Mutalip Mohd Hatta Abdul , Lodz Noor Aliza , Musa Kamarul Imran , Kusnin Faridah , Aris Tahir
Published: December 2020

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) among children remains a significant public health problem in many parts of the world. The objective of this study was to describe the characteristics of TB patients and to determine the predictors of treatment success among children in Malaysia.

Methods

Secondary data from MyTB version 2.1, a national database, were analysed using R version 3.6.1. Descriptive analysis and multivariable logistic regression were conducted to identify treatment success and its determinants.

Results

In total, 3630 cases of TB cases were registered among children in Malaysia between 2013 and 2017. The overall treatment success rate was 87.1% in 2013 and plateaued between 90.1 and 91.4% from 2014 to 2017. TB treatment success was positively associated with being a Malaysian citizen (aOR = 3.43; 95% CI = 2.47, 4.75), being a child with BCG scars (aOR = 1.93; 95% CI = 1.39, 2.68), and being in the older age group (aOR = 1.06; 95% CI = 1.03, 1.09). Having HIV co-infection (aOR = 0.31; 95% CI = 0.16, 0.63), undergoing treatment in public hospitals (aOR = 0.38; 95% CI =0.25, 0.58), having chest X-ray findings of advanced lesion (aOR = 0.48; 95% CI = 0.33, 0.69), having EPTB (aOR = 0.58; 95% CI = 0.41, 0.82) and having sputum-positive PTB (aOR = 0.58; 95% CI = 0.43, 0.79) were negatively associated with TB treatment success among children.

Conclusions

The overall success rate of treatment among children with TB in Malaysia has achieved the target of 90% since 2014 and remained plateaued until 2017. The socio-demographic characteristics of children, place of treatment, and TB disease profile were associated with the likelihood of TB treatment success among children. The treatment success rate can be increased by strengthening contact tracing activities and promoting early identification targeting the youngest children and non-Malaysian children.