bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N-acetylcysteine blocks SOS induction and mutagenesis produced by fluoroquinolones in Escherichia coli
Authors: Rodríguez-Rosado Ana I , Valencia Estela Ynés , Rodríguez-Rojas Alexandro , Costas Coloma , Galhardo Rodrigo S , Rodríguez-Beltrán Jerónimo , Blázquez Jesús
Published: April 2019

Background

Fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin induce the mutagenic SOS response and increase the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Both the SOS response and ROS increase bacterial mutagenesis, fuelling the emergence of resistant mutants during antibiotic treatment. Recently, there has been growing interest in developing new drugs able to diminish the mutagenic effect of antibiotics by modulating ROS production and the SOS response.

Objectives

To test whether physiological concentrations of N-acetylcysteine, a clinically safe antioxidant drug currently used in human therapy, is able to reduce ROS production, SOS induction and mutagenesis in ciprofloxacin-treated bacteria without affecting antibiotic activity.

Methods

The Escherichia coli strain IBDS1 and its isogenic mutant deprived of SOS mutagenesis (TLS−) were treated with different concentrations of ciprofloxacin, N-acetylcysteine or both drugs in combination. Relevant parameters such as MICs, growth rates, ROS production, SOS induction, filamentation and antibiotic-induced mutation rates were evaluated.

Results

Treatment with N-acetylcysteine reduced intracellular ROS levels (by ∼40%), as well as SOS induction (by up to 75%) and bacterial filamentation caused by subinhibitory concentrations of ciprofloxacin, without affecting ciprofloxacin antibacterial activity. Remarkably, N-acetylcysteine completely abolished SOS-mediated mutagenesis.

Conclusions

Collectively, our data strongly support the notion that ROS are a key factor in antibiotic-induced SOS mutagenesis and open the possibility of using N-acetylcysteine in combination with antibiotic therapy to hinder the development of antibiotic resistance.
Trends and correlates of antimicrobial use in broiler and turkey farms: a poultry company registry-based study in Italy
Authors: Caucci Claudia , Di Martino Guido , Dalla Costa Alessandro , Santagiuliana Manuel , Lorenzetto Monica , Capello Katia , Mughini-Gras Lapo , Gavazzi Luigi , Bonfanti Lebana
Published: April 2019

Background

Antimicrobial usage (AMU) in livestock plays a key role in the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance. Analysis of AMU data in livestock is therefore relevant for both animal and public health.

Objectives

To assess AMU in 470 broiler and 252 turkey farms of one of Italy’s largest poultry companies, accounting for around 30% of national poultry production, to identify trends and risk factors for AMU.

Methods

Antimicrobial treatments administered to 5827 broiler and 1264 turkey grow-out cycles in 2015–17 were expressed as DDDs for animals per population correction unit (DDDvet/PCU). A retrospective analysis was conducted to examine the effect of geographical area, season and prescribing veterinarian on AMU. Management and structural interventions implemented by the company were also assessed.

Results

AMU showed a 71% reduction in broilers (from 14 to 4 DDDvet/PCU) and a 56% reduction in turkeys (from 41 to 18 DDDvet/PCU) during the study period. Quinolones, macrolides and polymyxins decreased from 33% to 6% of total AMU in broilers, and from 56% to 32% in turkeys. Broiler cycles during spring and winter showed significantly higher AMU, as well as those in densely populated poultry areas. Different antimicrobial prescribing behaviour was identified among veterinarians.

Conclusions

This study evidenced a decreasing trend in AMU and identified several correlates of AMU in broilers and turkeys. These factors will inform the design of interventions to further reduce AMU and therefore counteract antimicrobial resistance in these poultry sectors.
Distribution of Recent non-marine ostracods in Icelandic lakes, springs, and cave pools
Authors: Alkalaj Jovana , Hrafnsdottir Thora , Ingimarsson Finnur , Smith Robin J , Kreiling Agnes-Katharina , Mischke Steffen
Published: April 2019

Ostracods in Icelandic freshwaters have seldom been researched, with the most comprehensive record from the 1930s. There is a need to update our knowledge of the distribution of ostracods in Iceland as they are an important link in these ecosystems as well as good candidates for biomonitoring. We analysed 25,005 ostracods from 44 lakes, 14 springs, and 10 cave pools. A total of 16 taxa were found, of which seven are new to Iceland. Candona candida (Müller, 1776) is the most widespread species, whereas Cytherissa lacustris (Sars, 1863) and Cypria ophtalmica (Jurine, 1820) are the most abundant, showing great numbers in lakes. Potamocypris fulva (Brady, 1868) is the dominant species in springs. While the fauna of lakes and springs are relatively distinct from each other, cave pools host species that are common in both lakes and springs. Icelandic non-marine ostracods include mostly generalist species, as well as species adapted to cold climates and resemble those of other north European countries while sharing very few species with the North American Arctic. Iceland is experiencing impacts from climate change and a booming tourism. It is possible to use selected freshwater ostracods as biomonitoring tools by constructing a detailed database of these species.
Effect of Plant Essential Oils and Their Major Constituents on Cypermethrin Tolerance Associated Detoxification Enzyme Activities in Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Ruttanaphan Torranis , Pluempanupat Wanchai , Aungsirisawat Chutikan , Boonyarit Polnarong , Goff Gaelle Le , Bullangpoti Vasakorn
Published: April 2019

Essential oils are well known to act as biopesticides. This research evaluated the acute toxicity and synergistic effect of essential oil compounds in combination with cypermethrin against Spodoptera litura Fabricius (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). The effects of distillation extracts of essential oils from Alpinia galanga Zingiberaceae (Zingiberales) rhizomes and Ocimum basilicum Lamiaceae (Lamiales) leaves; one of their primary essential oil compounds 1,8-cineole; and linalool were studied on second-instar S. litura by topical application under laboratory conditions. The results showed that A. galanga had the highest control efficiency, whereas1,8-cineole provided a moderate efficacy. The mixtures of linalool, 1,8-cineole, O. basilicum, or A. galanga with cypermethrin were synergistic on mortality. Activity measurements of the main detoxification enzymes show that linalool and 1,8-cineole inhibit the activity of cytochromes P450 and carboxylesterases, which could explain their synergistic effect. Based on our results, the use of these mixtures represents an ideal eco-friendly approach, helping to manage cypermethrin resistance of S. litura.
Aberrant alternative splicing in breast cancer
Authors: Yang Quan , Zhao Jinyao , Zhang Wenjing , Chen Dan , Wang Yang
Published: April 2019

Alternative splicing is critical for human gene expression regulation, which plays a determined role in expanding the diversity of functional proteins. Importantly, alternative splicing is a hallmark of cancer and a potential target for cancer therapeutics. Based on the statistical data, breast cancer is one of the top leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. Strikingly, alternative splicing is closely associated with breast cancer development. Here, we seek to provide a general review of the relationship between alternative splicing and breast cancer. We introduce the process of alternative splicing and its regulatory role in cancers. In addition, we highlight the functions of aberrant alternative splicing and mutations of splicing factors in breast cancer progression. Moreover, we discuss the role of alternative splicing in cancer drug resistance and the potential of being targets for cancer therapeutics.
CT-based radiomic signatures for prediction of pathologic complete response in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Yang Zhining , He Binghui , Zhuang Xinyu , Gao Xiaoying , Wang Dandan , Li Mei , Lin Zhixiong , Luo Ren
Published: April 2019

The objective of this study was to build models to predict complete pathologic response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients using radiomic features. A total of 55 consecutive patients pathologically diagnosed as having ESCC were included in this study. Patients were divided into a training cohort (44 patients) and a testing cohort (11 patients). The logistic regression analysis using likelihood ratio forward selection was performed to select the predictive clinical parameters for pCR, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) with logistic regression to select radiomic predictors in the training cohort. Model performance in the training and testing groups was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC). The multivariate logistic regression analysis identified no clinical predictors for pCR. Thus, only radiomic features selected by LASSO were used to build prediction models. Three logistic regression models for pCR prediction were developed in the training cohort, and they were able to predict pCR well in both the training (AUC, 0.84–0.86) and the testing cohorts (AUC, 0.71–0.79). There were no differences between these AUCs. We developed three predictive models for pCR after nCRT using radiomic parameters and they demonstrated good model performance.
Adapting Evidence-Based Practice for Sexual and Gender Minorities
Authors: Pachankis John E. , Safren Steven A.
Published: April 2019

This chapter reviews the history of scientific evidence regarding sexual and gender minority (SGM) mental health, from the unscientific, homophobic theories of the early 20th century to the pioneering research that paved the way for the accurate evidence on SGM mental health that researchers currently possess and continue to acquire. This chapter also discusses historical impediments to creating evidence-based treatments for SGM mental health, including a lack of clear treatment targets and treatment studies specific to SGM, as well as the recent progress toward overcoming these barriers as illustrated in the chapters throughout this handbook. The chapter offers several justifications for the widespread use and dissemination of evidence-based treatments with SGM, including ethical, professional, and scientific considerations in this pursuit. Finally, it provides suggestions for future research to advance evidence-based practice for SGM, spanning psychiatric epidemiology to psychotherapy process research.
Evidence-Based Approaches for Sexual Health and Substance Use Problems in Sexual and Gender Minority Youth
Authors: Newcomb Michael E. , Feinstein Brian A.
Published: April 2019

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other sexual and gender minority (LGBTQ) youth are at higher risk for various behavioral health issues relative to their heterosexual counterparts, including sexual health outcomes and substance use problems. Despite these well-documented disparities, very little attention has been paid to mitigating these health issues, and few evidence-based interventions that are tailored to the unique needs of LGBTQ youth have been developed to address these problems. However, several newer programs have been developed to address the needs of some specific groups within the LGBTQ youth population (e.g., young gay and bisexual men, transgender women). This chapter reviews the current state of the literature on behavioral interventions for addressing sexual health and substance use in LGBTQ youth. Furthermore, it provides several case examples to illustrate the application of these strategies in clinical settings, and it summarizes gaps in the literature and opportunities for future research.
Acceptance, Vulnerability, and Compassion
Authors: Skinta Matthew D. , Hoeflein Brandon , Ryu Daniel
Published: April 2019

Therapies that enhance mindfulness, acceptance, compassion, and interpersonal vulnerability among sexual and gender minority (SGM) clients offer the potential to reduce the impact of minority stress, rejection sensitivity, and shame. This chapter describes three therapies in detail that utilize mindfulness and acceptance processes: acceptance and commitment therapy, functional analytic psychotherapy, and compassion-focused therapy. These therapies emphasize improved emotion regulation, increased genuineness and vulnerability in interpersonal relationships, and reductions in the experience of shame. Vignettes with therapeutic dialog are provided to illustrate the active elements of each approach. Although empirical evidence supports the effectiveness of these therapies on targets that SGM psychology suggest are areas of vulnerability for SGM clients, the bodies of empirical research describing these therapies and the well-being of SGM clients are still primarily separate and only beginning to be connected. Future directions that might improve the evidence base for these therapies with SGM clients are proposed.
Transdiagnostic Approaches to Improve Sexual Minority Individuals’ Co-occurring Mental, Behavioral, and Sexual Health
Authors: Rodriguez-Seijas Craig , Burton Charles L. , Pachankis John E.
Published: April 2019

Sexual and gender minority individuals are at elevated risk of many adverse psychosocial health outcomes, including mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, as well as suicidality and sexually transmitted infections. Despite greater utilization of mental health services, there remain few evidence-based approaches specifically tailored for sexual minority individuals and even fewer that are designed to explicitly address the multiple co-occurring conditions that afflict this group. This chapter describes one such approach, rooted in minority stress theory, that has been shown to empirically address the multitude of problematic outcomes and behaviors among sexual minority men and is currently being developed for sexual minority women. The chapter begins by describing the theoretical underpinnings of this therapeutic approach, subsequently providing a description of the major principles underlying this intervention. This chapter ends with an illustrative case example taken from the current clinical trials of this treatment program.
The Power of Group Dynamics
Authors: Mintz Jeff , Saini Michael A. , Polak Shely
Published: April 2019

Much has been written about the power of group dynamics. This chapter reviews empirically supported groups for children and adolescents impacted by separation and divorce. Children and adolescents bewildered by the chaos associated with separation and divorce can suffer from the impact of loss, interparental conflict, and changes in family dynamics. Psychoeducational separation/divorce groups for children and adolescents can help children normalize the separation process and feel supported by peers and group facilitators. Group work has the potential to be transformative by allowing children and adolescents to share their mixed feelings related to the separation. This chapter reviews existing group approaches and shares strategies shown to be effective in helping children of all ages better understand and make sense of their new worlds. The chapter considers the importance of parallel group work for parents where feedback is provided to them about their child’s experiences. The hallmark of this family systems approach is that it enlightens parents caught up in their own conflict to be better attuned to their children’s needs and adjustment problems, thereby adding to the supportive framework for helping children and adolescents better cope with the impact of their family transitions.
Early Intervention with Resistance/Refusal Dynamics and Hybrid Cases
Authors: Greenberg Lyn R. , Schnider Robert , Jackson Julie
Published: April 2019

When parent–child relationships are disrupted, or a child appears to resist contact with a parent, prompt intervention may be necessary to avoid entrenched family dysfunction and deterioration in children’s functioning. Chronic exposure to unresolved parenting conflict places children at particular risk, particularly when parents or other adults are more focused on blaming one another than on resolving problems. This chapter describes application of the coping-focused, trauma-sensitive, multisystemic Child Centered Conjoint Therapy model to assist families, without compromising external investigations. Elements of this intervention include careful therapeutic assessment within a protective structure and specific therapeutic interventions to promote safety, encourage resilience and healthy coping behaviors, address parenting deficits, and promote healthy problem-solving. Structural elements include clear orders, attention to role boundaries, management of therapeutic information, and support from the court and independent children’s lawyers.
Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions
Authors: Greenberg Lyn R. , Fidler Barbara J. , Saini Michael A. , Schnider Robert , Reyes Ashley-Lauren
Published: April 2019

In this chapter, the authors identify central themes that unite the disparate chapters in this volume and offer suggestions for future directions. The chapters have ranged from research reviews to integrated models, based on research-supported components, detailed case applications, and general guidance and practice tools. A common uniting theme is the importance of seeking and maintaining current knowledge relevant to treatment and other interventions, including research from related fields as appropriate. Judicious application and understanding of the literature is important. Future needs include addressing the training gap among both specialized providers and other professionals, addressing resource gaps, and including in our professional guidelines the requirement that professionals who make recommendations about services have sufficient knowledge to do so. Issues in cross-disciplinary communication and training of lawyers and judges are also addressed.
Body Functionality
Authors: Alleva Jessica M. , Martijn Carolien
Published: April 2019

This chapter concerns body functionality: everything that the body can do, encompassing body functions related to (a) physical capacities (e.g., flexibility), (b) internal processes (e.g., digesting food), (c) bodily senses and perception (e.g., sight), (d) creative endeavors (e.g., playing an instrument), (e) communication with others (e.g., body language), and (f) self-care (e.g., showering). The following key areas are covered: First, the chapter explains how focusing on body functionality can be beneficial for fostering positive embodiment. Second, existing and emerging measures for assessing body functionality are described. Third, the chapter describes how body functionality can be integrated into intervention efforts. Last, the potential caveats of focusing on body functionality are highlighted, and important directions for future research are identified.
Mindful Attunement
Authors: Cook-Cottone Catherine P.
Published: April 2019

Mindful attunement is the integration of mindful awareness and healthy, sustainable connection with both the internal and external experiences of self that drives intentional thinking and behaviors that support well-being. This chapter details how physiology, emotions, and cognitions influence a sense of internal integration and attunement. Mindful self-care is introduced as a method for cultivating mindful attunement among the internal aspects of self, within the context of external (e.g., social) challenges using the attuned representation model of self (ARMS). The connections between mindful attunement, mindful self-care, and positive embodiment are illustrated using case examples. The Mindful Self-Care Scale, a tool for the assessment of the aspects of self-care addressing each area of the ARMS through actionable practices, is reviewed. This chapter ends by detailing the mindful self-care process, which involves mindful awareness of self-care as essential to well-being, assessment of self-care domains, assessment-driven self-care goal setting, and engagement in self-care.
Resisting Restrictive Feminine Molds and Promoting Embodied Well-Being Among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Trachtenberg Lianne
Published: April 2019

This chapter explores the resistance to restrictive feminine molds as a protective factor that facilitates positive embodiment among young breast cancer survivors. The chapter reviews the empirical evidence on cancer survivors’ gendered lived experience in the body and the role of restrictive feminine molds on cultivating experiences of (dis)embodiment. A novel mixed-method research program is discussed that examined whether the internalization of values that counteract feminine molds among breast cancer survivors, utilizing the Experience of Embodiment Scale, predicted embodied well-being. The program also considered women`s reflections about their values and beliefs, cultural heteronormative ideas of attractiveness, and role demands on women`s connection to their post–medically treated bodies. The chapter concludes with suggested intervention strategies that aim at fostering resistance to restrictive feminine molds and, through that, enhancing the quality of embodied lives among women entering the survivorship stage of their breast cancer journey.
Compassion-Based Interventions to Facilitate Positive Body Image and Embodiment
Authors: Kelly Allison C. , Miller Kathryn E. , Vimalakanthan Kiruthiha , Dupasquier Jessica R. , Waring Sydney
Published: April 2019

A growing number of interventions for body image and eating disorders now seek to build individuals’ capacities for self-compassion and other-compassion. Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) helps self-critical individuals to relate to themselves and others from a more compassionate mindset and to grow more comfortable receiving compassion from others. Though more empirical research is needed, preliminary studies revealed that in women with eating disorders, body image preoccupation, or the presence of overweight or obesity, CFT-based interventions can reduce eating pathology, decrease shame, improve body image, increase capacities for self-compassion and other-compassion, and improve health. In addition, mindfulness meditations that focus on the cultivation of self-compassion and other-compassion have been found to improve body image-related experiences, including body appreciation. It will be important to extend the extant research by conducting larger scale studies of compassion-based interventions in mixed-gender samples with a greater focus on assessing positive body image outcomes.
Emotion-Focused Therapy to Facilitate Positive Body Image and Embodiment
Authors: Ivanova Iryna
Published: April 2019

This chapter describes the application of emotion-focused therapy (EFT) in enhancing embodiment and positive body image in individuals with eating disorders and body dissatisfaction. It provides an overview of emotion regulation and dysregulation and highlights possible links between emotion regulation deficits, negative body image, and disordered eating. It reviews the application of EFT in the treatment of emotion dysregulation and describes EFT interventions that help enhance positive embodiment and positive body image. The chapter also reviews outcome research on the application of EFT in healing bodily and emotional disruptions in adults and adolescents through individual and group psychotherapy. The chapter concludes with suggestions for future directions to advance the application of EFT to transform body shame into more attuned and empowering ways to inhabit the body.
Mindfulness Training to Facilitate Positive Body Image and Embodiment
Authors: Atkinson Melissa J. , Wade Tracey D.
Published: April 2019

Mindfulness—the nonjudgmental awareness and acceptance of present moment experience—is cultivated through formal and informal experiential exercises and has received support as an effective intervention approach across multiple disorders. The efficacy of mindfulness for body image and disordered eating is less well researched. This chapter outlines a theoretical framework for the application of mindfulness in this context, provides examples of intervention content, and reviews existing evidence related to the use of mindfulness training to enhance body image and prevent eating disorders in both clinical and nonclinical samples. Overall, research indicates mindfulness is a worthwhile approach but should be carefully considered among those with clinical eating disorders due to the potential for negative impacts. Further research using rigorous methodology is required to establish stronger and broader support for intervention effects and to explore mindfulness with regard to additional aspects of positive body image, embodiment, and intuitive eating.
Intervention Integrity
Authors: Collier-Meek Melissa A. , DeFouw Emily R. , Gould Kaitlin
Published: April 2019

In order for interventions to produce the desired outcome, it is necessary that they be implemented as researched and designed. School-based practitioners, however, should not assume that interventions will always be implemented as intended by teachers and other school personnel. The chapter begins by defining intervention integrity, or the degree to which an intervention is implemented as designed. Next, the chapter provides an overview of methods for the assessment of intervention integrity. Critical steps discussed include operationalization of intervention steps, determining relevant dimensions of integrity, selecting an assessment method, and developing a rating scheme. Methods for collection and evaluation of integrity data are discussed, as well as strategies for promoting intervention integrity.
Tier I Basics
Authors: Fallon Lindsay M. , Mueller Marlana R. , Kurtz Kathryn D. , Cathcart Sadie C.
Published: April 2019

Tier I interventions are implemented on a school-wide or class-wide level and are intended to limit the development of problem behaviors. This chapter describes the preventive focus and emphasis on efficiency of these strategies, provides specific progress monitoring assessments, and introduces general issues related to classroom management. The approach of school-wide positive behavior interventions and supports (SWPBIS) is defined, and essential elements of systems, practices, data, outcomes, and building readiness are described. Next, class-wide PBIS procedures are discussed in terms of developing routines, rules, and expectations, acknowledgment of appropriate behaviors, and responding to problem behaviors. Finally, Tier I interventions in other educational settings (e.g., hallway, cafeteria) are discussed.
Whole-School PBIS Rules and Rewards Systems
Authors: Feinberg Adam B. , VanLone Janet
Published: April 2019

The purpose of the following chapter is to review Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support (PBIS) framework and how it address teaching and recognizing expected behavior in schools. The construct of PBIS is a prevention framework and problem-solving approach for delivering a continuum of supports to schools, classrooms, and individual students. PBIS emphasizes the prevention of challenging behaviors. This chapter focuses on school-wide PBIS (SWPBIS), and describes four essential elements of effective SWPBIS: outcomes, data-based decision-making, systems, and practices. The chapter then describes the implementation of SWPBIS. Specifically, strategies for defining and teaching expectations, recognizing expected behavior, and responding to inappropriate student behavior are discussed. Finally, the chapter provides direction in building and sustaining implementation.
Social Skills and Bullying Prevention Programs
Authors: Song Samuel Y. , Zochowski Michelle , Tashman Wynn , Houle Stephanie , Doll Beth
Published: April 2019

Students’ lack of social skills is associated with interruptions in classroom instruction; educator ineffectiveness and burnout; social withdrawal, isolation, and peer rejection, which can lead to aggressive and violent behavior; and problems establishing successful relationships with peers and adults. Deficits in social skills often lead to problem behaviors within school systems, such as bullying. The negative consequences of bullying have been well documented and include school absenteeism, poor academic achievement, heightened anxiety, depression, and loneliness. This chapter describes evidence-based social skills interventions and bullying prevention programs that may be implemented at a school-wide or class-wide level. Additionally, the chapter discusses problems associated with generalization of social skills and bullying prevention programs, and how these problems may be overcome.
Tier II Basics
Authors: Campbell Amy , Rodriguez Billie Jo , Schrauben Kristen
Published: April 2019

Schools are charged with the challenge of addressing the complex social and academic needs of an increasingly diverse student body, while simultaneously facing reductions in funding, resources, and personnel. Schools are in need of effective and efficient behavioral support strategies to meet the needs of a wide range of students. Although Tier I strategies are essential to prevent many challenging behaviors, some students may require additional intervention and support. Tier II interventions are one mechanism for providing the additional support within an MTSS framework. This chapter defines the critical features of Tier II interventions and provides guidelines for implementing a range of interventions. The chapter also addresses issues related to the transition from Tier I to Tier II.
Selected Social-Emotional Learning Interventions
Authors: Gresham Frank M. , Byrd Shelby , Cassidy Kaitlin
Published: April 2019

Social skills, or social-emotional skills, are interchangeable terms used to describe an individual’s ability to perform social behaviors, as well as regulate and express emotions appropriately. Substantial correlational and longitudinal research evidence indicates that children and youth’s social-emotional competencies are related to positive adjustment outcomes and inversely related to a number of problem behaviors. Although social skills training is frequently implemented as a preventive measure at Tier I and a targeted intervention at Tier II, some students may require more targeted and individualized social skills instruction in order to improve target skills. The chapter describes evidence-based practices for addressing small group social skill needs, as well as the adaptation of various evidence-based social skills curricula.
Behavioral and Psychophysiological Investigations of Irritability
Authors: DeSerisy Mariah , Deveney Christen M.
Published: April 2019

A better understanding of neurocognitive mechanisms underlying irritability has the potential to inform treatments and improve quality of life for the children for whom this symptom is severe and persistent. This chapter examines the existing behavioral and psychophysiological investigations into irritability-related mechanisms in youth. Together, these measures provide insight into the cognitive and socioemotional abilities of youth with irritability. Existing research explores three domains: executive functioning, reward processing, and responses to emotional stimuli. Although deficits have been observed in each domain, the strongest evidence exists for atypical frustrative nonreward responses (i.e., when an expected reward is not received), face emotion identification deficits, and increased attention toward threatening faces. We discuss limitations to the existing literature and propose avenues for future research, including exploring cognitive-emotion interactions, using dimensional measures of irritability, and examining whether deficits are unique to irritability or related to co-occurring symptoms.
How (not) to train the brain
Authors: Raz Amir , Rabipour Sheida
Published: April 2019

How (Not) to Train the Brain offers a scientifically honest account of brain training. It demolishes unfounded claims often made for brain training programs, offering instead useful, proven, methods for improving mental performance and capacity. It reviews the apps, books, and other products that have emerged in recent years claiming to boost cognitive power and focus emotion, destroying well-established myths and misconceptions about the brain. It offers alternative, easily implementable techniques, including a list of commercially available products that readers may wish to consider. This title includes interviews with leading experts and practitioners working with different brain training and mental optimization approaches. These interviews provide unique insights into the foundations and development of brain training techniques.
From Theory to Practice
Authors: Raz Amir , Rabipour Sheida
Published: April 2019

“From Theory to Practice: Contextualizing Brain Training” provides the backdrop to the field of brain training. From the pressures of competitive society to diagnostic labeling and the allure of commercialization, a number of chronological progressions shaped and facilitated the emergence of modern brain training practices today. This chapter delivers a brief historical background describing the challenges and conflicts surrounding brain research and medical practice, and uses mental health as a case study.
Survey of Sexual Function and Pornography
Authors: Berger Jonathan H , Kehoe John E , Doan Andrew P , Crain Donald S , Klam Warren P , Marshall Michael T , Christman Matthew S
Published: April 2019

Introduction

We aimed to explore and describe the pornography habits of young men and women. Given recent upward trends in pornography use and erectile dysfunction, along with a plausible pathophysiology, we hypothesized that pornography use would correlate with sexual dysfunction.

Materials and Methods

Institutional Review Board approval was obtained. Surveys were distributed to 20–40 year old men and women presenting to a urology clinic. Information was collected on demographics and medical history. Sexual function was evaluated with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) in men and the Female Sexual Function Index in women. Extent of potential addiction to pornography was measured with the pornography craving questionnaire and the obsessive passion scale. Pornography use was measured based on both frequency and duration, and analyzed relative to sexual dysfunction.

Results

Men used pornography significantly more frequently than women (81.1% vs. 39%). Computer and cellular phone image viewing were the most popular modalities in both sexes. There was no association between IIEF and craving for, or obsessive passion for, pornography. Preference for pornography with masturbation was found to be significantly associated with erectile dysfunction (p = 0.001). Rates of erectile dysfunction were lowest in those preferring partnered sex without pornography (22.3%) and increased significantly when pornography was preferred over partnered sex (78%). No correlation was found between any variables and female sexual dysfunction.

Conclusions

Pornography and sexual dysfunction are common among young people. No clear relationship exists between extent of addiction to pornography and sexual dysfunction in either gender. However, men who prefer masturbation with pornography to partnered sex have a significantly increased risk of sexual dysfunction. Given sexual dysfunction may be associated with mental health concerns, further evaluation of its causes and impact on military operational readiness are warranted.
Single-molecule live cell imaging of Rep reveals the dynamic interplay between an accessory replicative helicase and the replisome
Authors: Syeda Aisha H , Wollman Adam J M , Hargreaves Alex L , Howard Jamieson A L , Brüning Jan-Gert , McGlynn Peter , Leake Mark C
Published: April 2019

DNA replication must cope with nucleoprotein barriers that impair efficient replisome translocation. Biochemical and genetic studies indicate accessory helicases play essential roles in replication in the presence of nucleoprotein barriers, but how they operate inside the cell is unclear. With high-speed single-molecule microscopy we observed genomically-encoded fluorescent constructs of the accessory helicase Rep and core replisome protein DnaQ in live Escherichia coli cells. We demonstrate that Rep colocalizes with 70% of replication forks, with a hexameric stoichiometry, indicating maximal occupancy of the single DnaB hexamer. Rep associates dynamically with the replisome with an average dwell time of 6.5 ms dependent on ATP hydrolysis, indicating rapid binding then translocation away from the fork. We also imaged PriC replication restart factor and observe Rep-replisome association is also dependent on PriC. Our findings suggest two Rep-replisome populations in vivo: one continually associating with DnaB then translocating away to aid nucleoprotein barrier removal ahead of the fork, another assisting PriC-dependent reloading of DnaB if replisome progression fails. These findings reveal how a single helicase at the replisome provides two independent ways of underpinning replication of protein-bound DNA, a problem all organisms face as they replicate their genomes.
Updated MS²PIP web server delivers fast and accurate MS² peak intensity prediction for multiple fragmentation methods, instruments and labeling techniques
Authors: Gabriels Ralf , Martens Lennart , Degroeve Sven
Published: April 2019

MS²PIP is a data-driven tool that accurately predicts peak intensities for a given peptide's fragmentation mass spectrum. Since the release of the MS²PIP web server in 2015, we have brought significant updates to both the tool and the web server. In addition to the original models for CID and HCD fragmentation, we have added specialized models for the TripleTOF 5600+ mass spectrometer, for TMT-labeled peptides, for iTRAQ-labeled peptides, and for iTRAQ-labeled phosphopeptides. Because the fragmentation pattern is heavily altered in each of these cases, these additional models greatly improve the prediction accuracy for their corresponding data types. We have also substantially reduced the computational resources required to run MS²PIP, and have completely rebuilt the web server, which now allows predictions of up to 100 000 peptide sequences in a single request. The MS²PIP web server is freely available at https://iomics.ugent.be/ms2pip/.
Comparison of Avian Influenza Virus Contamination in the Environment Before and After Massive Poultry H5/H7 Vaccination in Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Cheng Wei , Chong Ka Chun , Lau Steven Yuk-Fai , Wang Xiaoxiao , Yu Zhao , Liu Shelan , Wang Maggie , Pan Jinren , Chen Enfu
Published: April 2019

Background

Information regarding comparison of the environmental prevalence of avian influenza virus (AIVs), before and after massive poultry vaccinations, is limited. Our study aimed to detect differences in the prevalence of AIVs type A and subtypes H5, H7, and H9 before and after the September 2017 massive poultry vaccination, across different sampling places and types.

Methods

We collected 55 130 environmental samples from 11 cities in Zhejiang Province (China) between March 2013 and December 2018. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the prevalence of AIV type A and subtypes H5, H7, and H9 across different sampling places and types, before and after massive poultry vaccination.

Results

After the vaccination, contamination risk of AIV type A (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03–1.14) and subtype H9 (aOR = 1.58; 95% CI, 1.48–1.68) increased, and that of subtype H7 (aOR = 0.12; 95% CI, 0.10–0.14) decreased. Statistically significant decreased risk for H7 subtype contamination and increased risk for H9 subtype contamination were observed in backyard poultry flocks, live poultry markets, and slaughtering/processing plants. Swabs from poultry cages and slaughtering tables showed a statistically significant increased risk for H5 subtype contamination. The prevalence of H7 subtype decreased statistically significantly, whereas that of H9 subtype increased across the 5 sample types (poultry cages swabs, slaughtering table swabs, poultry feces, poultry drinking water, and poultry sewage).

Conclusions

Despite the sharp decrease in H7 subtype prevalence, reduction measures for AIV circulation are still imperative, given the high type A prevalence and the increase in H9 subtype contamination across different sampling places and types.
Education and intergenerational social mobility in the US and four European countries
Authors: Breen Richard
Published: April 2019

I draw on the findings of a recently completed comparative research project to address the question: how did intergenerational social mobility change over cohorts of men and women born in the first two-thirds of the twentieth century, and what role, if any, did education play in this? The countries studied are the US, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Notwithstanding the differences between them, by and large they present the same picture. Rates of upward mobility increased among cohorts born in the second quarter of the century and then declined among those born later. Among earlier born cohorts, social fluidity increased (that is, the association between the class a person was born into and the class he or she came to occupy as an adult declined) and then remained unchanged for those born after mid-century. The association between class origins and educational attainment followed much the same trend as social fluidity. This suggests that growing equalization in education may have contributed to the increase in social fluidity. In our analyses we find that this is so, but educational expansion also led to greater fluidity in some countries. There is also a strong link between upward mobility and social fluidity. Upward mobility was mostly driven by the expansion of higher-level white-collar jobs, especially in the 30 years after the end of the Second World War. This facilitated social fluidity because people from working class and farming origins could move into the service or salariat classes without reducing the rate at which children born into those classes could remain there. Educational expansion, educational equalization, and rapid structural change in the economies of the US and Europe all contributed to greater social fluidity among people born in the second quarter of the twentieth century. For people born after mid-century, rates of downward mobility have increased: however, despite the lack of further educational equalization and less pronounced structural change, social fluidity has remained unchanged.
Alternating Strain Regimes for Failure Propagation in Flexural Systems
Authors: Garau M , Nieves M J , Jones I S
Published: April 2019

We consider both analytical and numerical studies of a steady-state fracture process inside a discrete mass-beam structure, composed of periodically placed masses connected by Euler–Bernoulli beams. A fault inside the structure is assumed to propagate with a constant speed and this occurs as a result of the action of a remote sinusoidal, mechanical load. The established regime of fracture corresponds to the case of an alternating generalised strain regime. The model is reduced to a Wiener–Hopf equation and its solution is presented. We determine the minimum feeding wave energy required for the steady-state fracture process to occur. In addition, we identify the dynamic features of the structure during the steady-state fracture regime. A transient analysis of this problem is also presented, where the existence of steady-state fracture regimes, revealed by the analytical model, are verified and the associated transient features of this process are discussed.
Predictors, demographics and frequency of sustained remission and low disease activity in anti-tumour necrosis factor–treated rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Hamann Philip D H , Pauling John D , McHugh Neil , Shaddick Gavin , Hyrich Kimme ,   the BSRBR-RA Contributors Group, Maiden Nicola , Price Tom , Hopkinson Neil , O’Reilly Sheila , Hordon Lesley , Griffiths Ian , Porter Duncan , Capell Hilary , Hassell Andy , Benitha Romela , Choy Ernest , Walsh David , Emery Paul , Knight Susan , Bruce Ian , Hyrich Kimme , Taggart Allister , Scott David , Harrison Bev , Thompson Paul , McCrae Fiona , Goodfellow Rhian , Bukhari Marwan , Klimiuk Peter , Kitas George , Jubb Ronald , Abernethy Rikki , Clarke Shane , Green Sandra , Sanders Paul , Coulson Amanda
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To investigate the frequency and predictors of sustained 28-joint DAS (DAS28) remission and low disease activity (LDA) in patients receiving anti-TNF therapy and changes in responses over a 12 year period.

Methods

Data from the British Society for Rheumatology Biologics Registry for Rheumatoid Arthritis were used. Sustained remission and LDA were defined according to DAS28-ESR thresholds sustained for 6 months. The dataset was dichotomized into sequential chronological subgroups (2001–2010 and 2010–2013). Predictive variables were identified from a previous systematic review and modelled using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Overall, 2144 (14.9%) and 3802 (26.3%) patients achieved sustained remission or LDA, respectively. Positive predictors of sustained remission/LDA included adalimumab (vs etanercept), greater patient global assessment, never- and ex-smoker status (vs current smoking), greater swollen joint count, more recent commencement of anti-TNF and MTX co-prescription (except in the 2010–2013 subgroup). Negative predictors of sustained remission and LDA included poor baseline functional status (HAQ), female gender, older age at starting anti-TNF, infliximab use (vs etanercept), increasing BMI and greater baseline ESR. Increasing tender joint count was negatively associated with sustained LDA only. The overall proportion of patients achieving sustained remission and LDA has increased significantly over time.

Conclusion

Sustained remission/LDA on anti-TNF treatment remains uncommon. Adalimumab use, greater patient global assessment, never- and ex-smoker status, greater swollen joint count, more recent commencement of anti-TNF and MTX co-prescription are associated with achievement of sustained remission/LDA. However, co-prescription of MTX was not associated with an increased likelihood of achieving sustained remission or LDA in the analysis of more recent anti-TNF responses.