bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal Childhood Adversity as a Risk for Perinatal Complications and NICU Hospitalization
Authors: Ciciolla Lucia , Shreffler Karina M , Tiemeyer Stacy
Published: March 2021

Objective

To examine maternal childhood adversity in relation to increased risk for maternal and infant perinatal complications and newborn Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admittance.

Methods

A sample of 164 women recruited at their first prenatal appointment participated in a longitudinal study through 6 weeks postdelivery. Participants self-reported on their adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), negative health risks (overweight/obesity, smoking, and alcohol use), adverse infant outcomes, NICU admittance, and maternal perinatal complications across three pregnancy assessments and one post-birth assessment. Logistic binomial regression analyses were used to examine associations between maternal ACEs and adverse infant outcomes, NICU admittance, and maternal perinatal complications, controlling for pregnancy-related health risks.

Results

Findings showed that women with severe ACEs exposure (6+ ACEs) had 4 times the odds of reporting at least one adverse infant outcome (odds ratio [OR] = 4.33, 95% CI: 1.02–18.39), almost 9 times the odds of reporting a NICU admission (OR = 8.70, 95% CI: 1.34–56.65), and 4 times the odds of reporting at least one maternal perinatal outcome (OR = 4.37, 95% CI: 1.43–13.39).

Conclusions

The findings demonstrate the extraordinary risk that mothers’ ACEs pose for infant and maternal health outcomes over and above the associations with known maternal health risks during pregnancy, including overweight/obesity, smoking, and alcohol use. These results support a biological intergenerational transmission framework, which suggests that risk from maternal adversity is perpetuated in the next generation through biophysical and behavioral mechanisms during pregnancy that negatively affect infant health outcomes.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Working Memory Training in Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Hardy Steven J , Bills Sarah E , Meier Emily R , Schatz Jeffrey C , Keridan Katie J , Wise Shane , Hardy Kristina K
Published: March 2021

Objective

Youth with sickle cell disease (SCD) are at risk for neurocognitive deficits including problems with working memory (WM), but few interventions to improve functioning exist. This study sought to determine the feasibility and efficacy of home-based, digital WM training on short-term memory and WM, behavioral outcomes, and academic fluency using a parallel group randomized controlled trial design.

Methods

47 children (7–16 years) with SCD and short-term memory or WM difficulties were randomized to Cogmed Working Memory Training at home on a tablet device (N = 24) or to a standard care Waitlist group (N = 23) that used Cogmed after the waiting period. Primary outcomes assessed in clinic included performance on verbal and nonverbal short-term memory and WM tasks. Secondary outcomes included parent-rated executive functioning and tests of math and reading fluency.

Results

In the evaluable sample, the Cogmed group (N = 21) showed greater improvement in visual WM compared with the Waitlist group (N = 22; p = .03, d = 0.70 [CI95 = 0.08, 1.31]). When examining a combined sample of participants, those who completed ≥10 training sessions exhibited significant improvements in verbal short-term memory, visual WM, and math fluency. Adherence to Cogmed was lower than expected (M = 9.07 sessions, SD = 7.77), with 19 participants (41%) completing at least 10 sessions. Conclusions: Visual WM, an ability commonly affected by SCD, is modifiable with cognitive training. Benefits extended to verbal short-term memory and math fluency when patients completed a sufficient training dose. Additional research is needed to identify ideal candidates for training and determine whether training gains are sustainable and generalize to real-world outcomes.
Acute compartment syndrome resultant from alcohol abuse
Authors: Reed Logan A , Miller Derek , Harbour Angela
Published: March 2021

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is defined as a severe rise in pressure within a fascial compartment thereby leading to impaired microvascular perfusion of the limb. Therefore, ACS is a surgical emergency and if not treated immediately, permanent neurovascular and muscular compromise can ensue. When compartment syndrome is suspected, clinical recognition and timely assessment of the limb is essential to preventing limb ischemia. The classic cause of ACS is trauma; however, coagulopathies have been known to incite these events. Hemorrhage into a compartment can cause ACS but is rare in the literature. Here we present a case of thrombophilia resulting from pathological liver disease, leading to ACS that ultimately led to limb exsanguination. Education on early recognition of liver disease as an indirect underlying cause of ACS is imperative in order to prevent the dangerous sequelae that follow ACS.
Shakespeare’s Bombastic Blanks
Authors: Stagg Robert
Published: March 2021

This article takes seriously Robert Greene and/or Henry Chettle’s 1592 claim that there is something bombastic about Shakespeare’s blank verse by focusing on its so-called ‘metrical end-stop’. After sketching a survey of the metrical end-stop in early blank verse, it considers the resources with which Shakespeare sought to shift his verse style away from that particular prosodic feature. The article concludes by thinking about the late blank verse of The Winter’s Tale as a metrical rejoinder to Greene, whose Pandosto it versifies—though it is a rejoinder that ultimately proves equivocal.
Dynamics and Catalytic Mechanism of Histone Demethylase PHF8
Authors: Christov Christo , Chaturvedi Shobhit , Ramanan Rajeev , Karabencheva‐Christova Tatyana
Published: March 2021

PHF8 is histone lysine demethylase that demethylates dimethylated lysine residues in H3 histone protein. The enzyme is involved in key events of the epigenetic regulation and has been linked to mental retardation and other pathologies. While success in understanding structure‐function relationships of this enzyme was achieved using X‐ray crystallographic, biochemical and mutagenic studies, so far there is no knowledge about its reaction mechanism and the effect of the conformational dynamics on the enzyme structure and functions.

In order to provide understanding into this missing areas, we performed combination from molecular dynamics simulations (MD), Electronic Structure (ES) and Combined Quantum Mechanics and Molecular Mechanics (QM/MM) Calculations. The MD studies provided atomistic insights into the effects of the conformational dynamics and collective motions into enzyme structure, interactions with the co‐substrates. The QM/MM studies revealed the mechanistic aspect of the oxygen activation processes as well the hydrogen abstraction (HAT) and rebound hydroxylation steps. Furthermore, HAT step is calculated to be the rate‐limiting step. We explored the effects of conformational dynamics and effects of mutations on the HAT step. The results demonstrate the potential of multiscale computational methods to provide an insight that complement the experimental methods.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Assessment of the left ventricular outflow tract during cardiac anaesthesia with biplane transoesophageal echocardiography
Authors: Cowie Brian , Bitcon Charles , Kluger Roman
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

Assessment of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) area is a key component of quantification of aortic stenosis and stroke volume. Current international guidelines recommend measurement of the LVOT diameter with two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography and assume a circle. This may lead to erroneous measures of aortic valve area and adversely affect peri-operative decision making. Multiplane orthogonal (biplane) and three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography imaging may allow more accurate calculation of LVOT, aortic valve area and stroke volume.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the shape and area of the LVOT with conventional 2D diameter, short axis cross-sectional planimetry with biplane imaging and 3D multiplane reconstruction in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE).

DESIGN

A retrospective observational study.

SETTING

A single centre university hospital.

PATIENTS

119 patients undergoing cardiac surgery with TOE.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Measurements of the shape and area of the LVOT with standard 2D TOE, short axis biplane imaging and 3D TOE.

RESULTS

The LVOT shape is elliptical in 70% of patients. The (mean ± SD, [range]) LVOT cross-sectional area with 2D TOE was 4.29 cm2 ± 0.98, [2.46 to 6.70], with biplane was 4.68 cm2 ± 1.03, [2.92 to 7.30] and with 3D was 4.59 cm2 ± 0.99, [2.78 to 7.10]. There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001) in the three pairwise comparisons. 2D LVOT area had large bias (7 to 9%) and wider limits of agreement (LOA) with both biplane and 3D LVOT area (−17 to 36%). Biplane and 3D LVOT areas had small bias (1.8%) with relatively narrow LOA (−8 to 11%).

CONCLUSIONS

2D diameter measures of the LVOT assuming a circle underestimate LVOT area, underestimate aortic valve area and increase the apparent severity of aortic stenosis. This may lead to inappropriate aortic valve intervention. In a busy operating room environment, we suggest that for the calculation of stroke volume and aortic valve area, LVOT area is measured with biplane imaging.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Observational study with no interventions so trial not registered.
Role of Dietary Factors, Food Habits, and Lifestyle in Childhood Obesity Development: A Position Paper From the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Committee on Nutrition
Authors: Verduci Elvira , Bronsky Jiri , Embleton Nicholas , Gerasimidis Konstantinos , Indrio Flavia , Köglmeier Jutta , de Koning Barbara , Lapillonne Alexandre , Moltu Sissel Jennifer , Norsa Lorenzo , Domellöf Magnus
Published: March 2021

Childhood obesity has high societal and economic impact but current treatment approaches are sub-optimal. In the last decade, important studies have been conducted aiming to identify strategies to prevent obesity during critical periods of life. Updated recommendations for childhood obesity prevention are needed. We present data from systematic reviews and meta- analysis, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and large observational studies, published from 2011 onwards that consider the possible role of the following factors in obesity development: breast-feeding; macronutrient composition and method of complementary feeding; parenting style; dietary patterns; sugar-sweetened beverage consumption; eating behaviour (eg, skipping breakfast, family dinners. etc); meal frequency and composition (fast foods, snacking), portion size; dietary modulators of gut microbiota (including pre-, pro-, and synbiotics); physical activity and sedentary behaviour. We used the Medline database and the Cochrane Library to search for relevant publications. Important research gaps were also identified. This position paper provides recommendations on dietary factors, food habits, and lifestyle to prevent childhood obesity development, based on the available literature and expert opinion. Clinical research and high-quality trials are urgently needed to resolve numerous areas of uncertainty.
External Splinting Is Not Mandatory After All Rhinoplasties
Authors: Cabbarzade Cavid , Yücel Ömer Taşkin , Sözen Tevfik , Ozgen Burce
Published: March 2021

Background

Although casts or external splint materials are commonly applied on the external nose after rhinoplasty, their beneficial effects have not been previously demonstrated in controlled studies.

Methods

A total of 40 adult patients who underwent primary rhinoplasty were included in this prospective study. The patients were randomized into 2 groups to use an external splint or not after surgery. Only surgical taping was applied to the nasal dorsum of the patients for whom external splints were not used. The periorbital edema and ecchymosis levels of the patients were recorded on the second and seventh days after surgery. Moreover, all patients had a computed tomography scan at the third postoperative week to measure the distance between the beginning of the osteotomy line on the right and left sides and the midline.

Results

On the second and seventh postoperative days, the levels of periorbital edema and ecchymosis were significantly lower in the patients with taping than in the patients with splints (P < 0.05 for each). No statistically significant difference was observed in terms of the difference in the distance between the beginning of the osteotomy line on the right and left sides to the midline between the group with external splints and that with tape (P = 0.661).

Conclusions

External splinting may not be used in cases where osteotomy is not performed or in patients where the osteotomies are sufficiently stable. Thus, the disadvantages of external splinting are avoided, and at the same time, periorbital edema and ecchymosis are less common.
Molecular dynamics study on atomic elastic stiffness at mode I crack along bi-metal interface
Authors: Yashiro K.
Published: March 2021

Propagation of mode I crack along bi-metal (001) interfaces of Fe/W, Fe/Ni, Fe/Co and Ti/Mg is simulated by molecular dynamics and discussed with the eigenvalue/vector of the atomic elastic stiffness,

B

i
j

a

=
Δ

σ
i
a

/

Δ

ε
j

, and surface energy. The crack does not propagate at the interface but in the adjacent phase of smaller surface energy, except in Fe/Ni. The 1st eigenvalue
η

a
(1)

, or the solution of

B

i
j

a

Δ

ε
j

=

η
a

Δ

ε
i

of each atom, clarifies the difference of ‘soft/hard’ of both phases at the onset of crack propagation. In the case of Fe/Ni, the
η

a
(1)

of Ni atoms remarkably decreases in the Fe/Ni bi-metal structure, even though Ni has higher
η

a
(1)

than Fe at no-load perfect lattices. Thus the rupture occurs in the Ni side even though the Ni has slightly higher (001) surface energy than Fe. Deformation modes at the crack propagation are also visualized by the eigenvector of
η

a
(1)

 < 0 unstable atoms.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Fracture dynamics of solid materials: from particles to the globe’.
A unified first-order hyperbolic model for nonlinear dynamic rupture processes in diffuse fracture zones
Authors: Gabriel A.-A. , Li D. , Chiocchetti S. , Tavelli M. , Peshkov I. , Romenski E. , Dumbser M.
Published: March 2021

Earthquake fault zones are more complex, both geometrically and rheologically, than an idealized infinitely thin plane embedded in linear elastic material. To incorporate nonlinear material behaviour, natural complexities and multi-physics coupling within and outside of fault zones, here we present a first-order hyperbolic and thermodynamically compatible mathematical model for a continuum in a gravitational field which provides a unified description of nonlinear elasto-plasticity, material damage and of viscous Newtonian flows with phase transition between solid and liquid phases. The fault geometry and secondary cracks are described via a scalar function
ξ
 ∈ [0, 1] that indicates the local level of material damage. The model also permits the representation of arbitrarily complex geometries via a diffuse interface approach based on the solid volume fraction function
α
 ∈ [0, 1]. Neither of the two scalar fields
ξ
and
α
needs to be mesh-aligned, allowing thus faults and cracks with complex topology and the use of adaptive Cartesian meshes (AMR). The model shares common features with phase-field approaches, but substantially extends them. We show a wide range of numerical applications that are relevant for dynamic earthquake rupture in fault zones, including the co-seismic generation of secondary off-fault shear cracks, tensile rock fracture in the Brazilian disc test, as well as a natural convection problem in molten rock-like material.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Fracture dynamics of solid materials: from particles to the globe’.
Resolution and uncertainties in estimates of earthquake stress drop and energy release
Authors: Abercrombie Rachel E.
Published: March 2021

Our models and understanding of the dynamics of earthquake rupture are based largely on estimates of earthquake source parameters, such as stress drop and radiated seismic energy. Unfortunately, the measurements, especially those of small and moderate-sized earthquakes (magnitude less than about 5 or 6), are not well resolved, containing significant random and potentially systematic uncertainties. The aim of this review is to provide a context in which to understand the challenges involved in estimating these measurements, and to assess the quality and reliability of reported measurements of earthquake source parameters. I also discuss some of the ways progress is being made towards more reliable parameter measurements. At present, whether the earthquake source is entirely self-similar, or not, and which factors and processes control the physics of the rupture remains, at least in the author's opinion, largely unconstrained. Detailed analysis of the best recorded earthquakes, using the increasing quantity and quality of data available, and methods less dependent on simplistic source models is one approach that may help provide better constraints.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Fracture dynamics of solid materials: from particles to the globe’.
Fracture asperity evolution during the transition from stick slip to stable sliding
Authors: Mei Cheng , Wu Wei
Published: March 2021

Fracture asperities interlock or break during stick slip and ride over each other during stable sliding. The evolution of fracture asperities during the transition between stick slip and stable sliding has attracted less attention, but is important to predict fracture behaviour. Here, we conduct a series of direct shear experiments on simulated fractures in homogeneous polycarbonate to examine the evolution of fracture asperities in the transition stage. Our results show that the transition stage occurs between the stick slip and stable sliding stages during the progressive reduction in normal stress on the smooth and rough fractures. Both the fractures exhibit the alternative occurrence of small and large shear stress drops followed by the deterministic chaos in the transition stage. Our data indicate that the asperity radius of curvature correlates linearly with the dimensionless contact area under a given normal stress. For the rough fracture, a bifurcation of acoustic energy release appears when the dimensionless contact area decreases in the transition stage. The evolution of fracture asperities is stress-dependent and velocity-dependent.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Fracture dynamics of solid materials: from particles to the globe’.
Complexities of underground mining seismic sources
Authors: Linzer Lindsay M. , Hildyard Mark W. , Wesseloo Johan
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a numerical investigation on the influence of the mining environment on seismic sources, with a focus on pillar failure mechanisms in tabular mining. We investigate the influence of the mining stope (underground excavation or void) on seismic inversions for the scalar moment, corner frequency, source radius, stress drop and moment tensor using synthetic events created within elastodynamic numerical modelling software, WAVE3D. The main objective is to determine whether the source parameters calculated from the recorded waveforms are due to a combination of the stope source and the pillar sources, rather than being related only to crushing of the pillar or shearing in the pillar footwall. The main finding is that the presence of stopes, and types of pillars, have a significant impact on the seismic moment and other source parameters. This is important since the moment is viewed as a robust parameter on which seismic magnitude is often based; however, this study indicates that moments calculated for pillar failure in a tabular stoping environments are less representative of the shearing or crushing source than originally thought.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Fracture dynamics of solid materials: from particles to the globe’.
How do Hemodialysis Center Prevent the Secondary COVID-19 Transmission in Poverty-Stricken Rural Region of China: Experiences and Strategies
Authors: Gu Yue , Wang Yuming , Zhou Jing , Deng Yaorui , Shao Fengmin
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an evolving public health crisis and challenged the medical system globally, especially in the rural-stricken regions. There is concern about the spread of coronavirus in regions with lower education level, weaker health systems and underdeveloped economy. The risk of viral transmission in HD center is elevated because of the densely-populated and high mobility in an enclosed environment.This paper demonstrated the main experiences and strategies of preventing secondary COVID-19 transmission in a HD center from a poverty-stricken rural region in China. Data of subjects including 17 medical workers and 249 patients were collected from the HD center in Huangchuan County People’s Hospital from February to April 2020. It is the first paper to provide the experiences and strategies about preventing COVID-19 secondary transmission in HD center for poverty-stricken rural region.
Transcription initiation mapping in 31 bovine tissues reveals complex promoter activity, pervasive transcription, and tissue-specific promoter usage
Authors: Goszczynski Daniel E. , Halstead Michelle M. , Islas-Trejo Alma D. , Zhou Huaijun , Ross Pablo J.
Published: March 2021

Characterizing transcription start sites is essential for understanding the regulatory mechanisms that control gene expression. Recently, a new bovine genome assembly (ARS-UCD1.2) with high continuity, accuracy, and completeness was released; however, the functional annotation of the bovine genome lacks precise transcription start sites and contains a low number of transcripts in comparison to human and mouse. By using the RAMPAGE approach, this study identified transcription start sites at high resolution in a large collection of bovine tissues. We found several known and novel transcription start sites attributed to promoters of protein-coding and lncRNA genes that were validated through experimental and in silico evidence. With these findings, the annotation of transcription start sites in cattle reached a level comparable to the mouse and human genome annotations. In addition, we identified and characterized transcription start sites for antisense transcripts derived from bidirectional promoters, potential lncRNAs, mRNAs, and pre-miRNAs. We also analyzed the quantitative aspects of RAMPAGE to produce a promoter activity atlas, reaching highly reproducible results comparable to traditional RNA-seq. Coexpression networks revealed considerable use of tissue-specific promoters, especially between brain and testicle, which expressed several genes in common from alternate loci. Furthermore, regions surrounding coexpressed modules were enriched in binding factor motifs representative of each tissue. The comprehensive annotation of promoters in such a large collection of tissues will substantially contribute to our understanding of gene expression in cattle and other mammalian species, shortening the gap between genotypes and phenotypes.
Subgenomic RNA identification in SARS-CoV-2 genomic sequencing data
Authors: Parker Matthew D. , Lindsey Benjamin B. , Leary Shay , Gaudieri Silvana , Chopra Abha , Wyles Matthew , Angyal Adrienn , Green Luke R. , Parsons Paul , Tucker Rachel M. , Brown Rebecca , Groves Danielle , Johnson Katie , Carrilero Laura , Heffer Joe , Partridge David G. , Evans Cariad , Raza Mohammad , Keeley Alexander J. , Smith Nikki , Filipe Ana Da Silva , Shepherd James G. , Davis Chris , Bennett Sahan , Sreenu Vattipally B. , Kohl Alain , Aranday-Cortes Elihu , Tong Lily , Nichols Jenna , Thomson Emma C. ,   The COVID-19 Genomics UK (COG-UK) Consortium, Wang Dennis , Mallal Simon , de Silva Thushan I.
Published: March 2021

We have developed periscope, a tool for the detection and quantification of subgenomic RNA (sgRNA) in SARS-CoV-2 genomic sequence data. The translation of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome for most open reading frames (ORFs) occurs via RNA intermediates termed “subgenomic RNAs.” sgRNAs are produced through discontinuous transcription, which relies on homology between transcription regulatory sequences (TRS-B) upstream of the ORF start codons and that of the TRS-L, which is located in the 5′ UTR. TRS-L is immediately preceded by a leader sequence. This leader sequence is therefore found at the 5′ end of all sgRNA. We applied periscope to 1155 SARS-CoV-2 genomes from Sheffield, United Kingdom, and validated our findings using orthogonal data sets and in vitro cell systems. By using a simple local alignment to detect reads that contain the leader sequence, we were able to identify and quantify reads arising from canonical and noncanonical sgRNA. We were able to detect all canonical sgRNAs at the expected abundances, with the exception of ORF10. A number of recurrent noncanonical sgRNAs are detected. We show that the results are reproducible using technical replicates and determine the optimum number of reads for sgRNA analysis. In VeroE6 ACE2+/− cell lines, periscope can detect the changes in the kinetics of sgRNA in orthogonal sequencing data sets. Finally, variants found in genomic RNA are transmitted to sgRNAs with high fidelity in most cases. This tool can be applied to all sequenced COVID-19 samples worldwide to provide comprehensive analysis of SARS-CoV-2 sgRNA.
Medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampal activity differentially contribute to ordinal and temporal context retrieval during sequence memory
Authors: Reeders Puck C. , Hamm Amanda G. , Allen Timothy A. , Mattfeld Aaron T.
Published: March 2021

Remembering sequences of events defines episodic memory, but retrieval can be driven by both ordinality and temporal contexts. Whether these modes of retrieval operate at the same time or not remains unclear. Theoretically, medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) confers ordinality, while the hippocampus (HC) associates events in gradually changing temporal contexts. Here, we looked for evidence of each with BOLD fMRI in a sequence task that taxes both retrieval modes. To test ordinal modes, items were transferred between sequences but retained their position (e.g., AB3). Ordinal modes activated mPFC, but not HC. To test temporal contexts, we examined items that skipped ahead across lag distances (e.g., ABD). HC, but not mPFC, tracked temporal contexts. There was a mPFC and HC by retrieval mode interaction. These current results suggest that the mPFC and HC are concurrently engaged in different retrieval modes in support of remembering when an event occurred.
Contributions of glucocorticoid receptors in cortical astrocytes to memory recall
Authors: Taylor William W. , Imhoff Barry R. , Sathi Zakia Sultana , Liu Wei Y. , Garza Kristie M. , Dias Brian G.
Published: March 2021

Dysfunctions in memory recall lead to pathological fear; a hallmark of trauma-related disorders, like posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Both, heightened recall of an association between a cue and trauma, as well as impoverished recall that a previously trauma-related cue is no longer a threat, result in a debilitating fear toward the cue. Glucocorticoid-mediated action via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) influences memory recall. This literature has primarily focused on GRs expressed in neurons or ignored cell-type specific contributions. To ask how GR action in nonneuronal cells influences memory recall, we combined auditory fear conditioning in mice and the knockout of GRs in astrocytes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a brain region implicated in memory recall. We found that knocking out GRs in astrocytes of the PFC disrupted memory recall. Specifically, we found that knocking out GRs in astrocytes in the PFC (AstroGRKO) after fear conditioning resulted in higher levels of freezing to the CS+ tone when compared with controls (AstroGRintact). While we did not find any differences in extinction of fear toward the CS+ between these groups, AstroGRKO female but not male mice showed impaired recall of extinction training. These results suggest that GRs in cortical astrocytes contribute to memory recall. These data demonstrate the need to examine GR action in cortical astrocytes to elucidate the basic neurobiology underlying memory recall and potential mechanisms that underlie female-specific biases in the incidence of PTSD.
Blockchain technology for a sustainable agri-food supply chain
Authors: Rana Roberto Leonardo , Tricase Caterina , De Cesare Luigi
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The present paper is aimed at 1) performing a systematic literature review (SLR) on applications in the perspective of sustainable agri-food supply chain (SC) of blockchain technology (BCT); 2) analyzing the selected literature, focusing on the advantages of the sustainable uses of the blockchain of the aforementioned SC and 3) presenting an outlook and research directions capable of addressing unresolved problems.

Design/methodology/approach

The SLR was conducted using detailed criteria to identify academic articles. Moreover, specific keywords and databases were used. The time frame considered included the years 2010–2020.

Findings

The review analysis indicates that the use of BCT or BCT supported by ICT/IoT contributes to sustainability of agri-food production. However, this technology can lead to several challenges such as scalability, privacy leakage, high cost and connectivity problems.

Research limitations/implications

The paper demonstrates that BCT can widely use agri-food supply chain due to its intrinsic characteristics. However, it is not excluded that the criteria chosen may not have identified important articles regarding BCT, the agri-food sector and sustainability.

Originality/value

Although the body of academic literature published on this topic is expansive, the effect of BCT on the agri-food SC's sustainability aspects has not yet been adequately analyzed. Thus, the article is aimed at investigating how BCT is used in the SC. In particular, the article is intended to update information about BCT and its impact on sustainability.
Magnets of creative talents in Yangtze River Delta Bay area
Authors: Zhang Liuyi , Shi Anna , Fang Longzhang
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the spatial distribution and movement patterns of creative talent within the Yangtze River Delta Bay Area (YRDBA) and the factors that contribute to such trends.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines data for the period 2006 to 2018 from the regions that constitute the YRDBA: Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui. Spatial distribution pattern analysis is adopted to interpret the flow tendency both spatially and chronologically and a Lasso regression model is used to investigate variables that influence this tendency.

Findings

It is found that creative talents in YRDBA are accumulating steadily in provincial capitals and financially advanced cities. Technology infrastructure, women’s rights, medical care amenities and housing affordability are major determinants of such spatial distribution. The talent spillover effect raises attention in talent saturated areas, while the surrounding regions should prepare to receive and retain the overflow.

Originality/value

Creative talents geography in China and the dynamism of creative talent in YRDBA are rarely discussed. Determinants of creative talents lack systematic pectination, literature that filters multiple determinants of creative talents migration is limited and discussion specific to the Chinese context is scarce. This case can, thus, provide insights into creative talents in developing countries and add to the current literature, bridge the gap of the current understanding of creative talents in YRDBA – the innovation and development center in China and provide a reference for policymakers when making macro decisions.
The asymmetric impact of interest and exchange rate on the stock market index: evidence from MENA region
Authors: Moussa Faten , Delhoumi Ezzeddine
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Several theoretical and empirical studies have shown the significant effects of economic and environmental factors on a large number of financial indicators. In this paper the authors are going to study whether the main stock market index, is impacted by the variations of the exchange rate and the interest rates.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper studies the response of the index market return to fluctuations in the interest rate and the exchange rate in five countries from the MENA region (Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt, Turkey and Jordan). To investigate whether this impact exists, the authors used the non-linear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) model with daily data from June 1998 to June 2018.

Findings

The application of the non-linear ARDL model confirms the presence of cointegration between return index, interest rate and exchange rate. The results show that the asymmetry hypothesis is only valid for the short run which suggests that the market index is sensitive to the variation in the interest rate and exchange rate. This means that these macroeconomic factors play an important role in the MENA region stock markets.

Originality/value

The findings confirm that the index returns in the MENA region stock markets are related to macroeconomic fundamentals such as the exchange rate and the real interest rate. The reaction of some indices is sensitive to whether the shocks are positive or negative. This finding may help investors to choose their strategies starting from these changes. Accordingly, policy makers must pay attention to the development progress of stock market.
Intersectional analysis of cannabis use, stigma and health among marginalized Nigerian women
Authors: Nelson Ediomo‐Ubong Ekpo
Published: March 2021

Cannabis use by women has been under‐researched, particularly use by marginalized women in developing societies. This article draws on qualitative research in Uyo, Nigeria, to explore how intersecting stigmas around social identity categories (e.g. gender, sex work) shapes cannabis use and contributes to health harms for marginalized women. Qualitative data were collected via in‐depth interviews with street‐involved female cannabis users, and transcribed, coded and analysed thematically. Initiation of cannabis use was influenced by social networks and sexual relationships. Heavy cannabis use enabled some women to perform alternative femininity thereby challenging the boundaries of appropriate gendered behaviour, while others were pressured by normative expectations to enact moderation according to traditional femininity. Recreational cannabis use overlapped with marginalized forms of use, including using heavily to cope with the mental health sequalae of gender‐based discriminations and structural inequities. Cannabis use attracted heightened stigma, operating as part of intersecting stigmatizing identities that adversely impacted mental health and wellbeing. Cannabis stigma does not exist in isolation from other social identity categories that shape women's lives. There exists a need to combat stigma through interventions that seek to mediate changes in gender relations, improve living conditions and access to health‐care services for marginalized women.
Future‐proof: bunkered data centres and the selling of ultra‐secure cloud storage
Authors: Taylor A.R.E.
Published: March 2021

Abandoned after the Cold War, nuclear bunkers around the world have found afterlives as ultra‐secure data storage sites for cloud computing providers. The operators of these bunkered data centres capitalize on the spatial, temporal, and material security affordances of their subterranean fortresses, promoting them as ‘future‐proof’ cloud storage solutions. Taking the concept of ‘future‐proofing’ as its entry‐point, this essay explores how data centre professionals work with the imaginative properties of the bunker to configure data as an object to be securitized. The essay takes the form of an ethnographic tour through a UK‐based data bunker. During this tour, threatening data futures and fragile data materialities are conjured in order to secure the conditions of possibility for the bunkered data centre's commercial continuity. Future‐proofing, it is argued, provides a conceptual opening onto the entangled imperatives of security and marketing that drive the commercial data storage industry.
Changes in gingivitis and protective factors among adults: A 4‐year prospective population‐based study
Authors: Christofoli Barbara R. , Rios Fernando S. , Costa Ricardo S. A. , Wagner Tassiane P. , Goergen Joseane , Izquierdo Cristina , Jardim Juliana J. , Maltz Marisa , Haas Alex Nogueira
Published: March 2021

Objectives

There are limited longitudinal data regarding gingival inflammation in adults. This study aimed to assess changes in gingivitis over 4 years and to determine protective factors.

Methods

A representative sample of 1023 adults living in Porto Alegre, Brazil, was obtained in the Caries‐Perio Collaboration Study. At follow‐up, 402 individuals were re‐examined. Gingivitis was assessed by the gingival bleeding index (GB) at both time points. Individuals were dichotomized into those showing reductions ≥ 15% and those showing reductions < 15% or increase in bleeding sites. Multivariable Poisson regression models were fitted with 11 possible risk factors, estimating relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

Percentage of individuals with GB ≥ 10% reduced from 72.4% to 53.8%. Bleeding sites significantly reduced (25.9%‐20.1%), and in a higher magnitude in buccal/palatal sites (34.1%‐24.0%). 31.0% of individuals presented GB reduction ≥ 15% in all sites. Toothbrushing ≥ 3 times/d increased 72% the probability of ≥15% GB reduction compared with ≤1/d (RR = 1.72; 95% CI 1.01‐3.16). For each 10 pack‐years smoked, the probability of ≥15% GB reduction was 3% higher (RR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.01‐1.04). At buccal/palatal sites, normal weight individuals had 26% higher probability of reducing GB than overweight‐obese individuals (RR = 1.26; 95% CI: 1.01‐1.62). A 5% higher decrease in GB sites was observed in the absence than the presence of periodontitis. Younger individuals had higher reduction in GB sites.

Conclusions

In the studied population, gingivitis reduced over time, with younger age, better oral hygiene, absence of periodontitis and normal weight being found to be protective factors. Smoking was associated with lower levels of gingivitis over time, probably due to its vasoconstrictive effect.
Effect of healthcare benefits on short‐term adherence of positive airway pressure therapy
Authors: Lim Taehun , Lim Sung Hwan , Koo Beom Mo , Hwang Junho , Oh Joo Hyung , Rhee Jihye , Park Pona
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of healthcare benefits on adherence to positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients.

Methods

Medical records of OSA patients at the Veterans Health Service Medical Center were retrospectively reviewed. OSA patients were assigned to two groups as the date of prescribing PAP: after (=Group A) and before (=Group B) July 1, 2018 when PAP therapy starts to be included in healthcare insurance coverage for OSA patients in South Korea. PAP adherence was compared over a 3‐month period between the two groups; subjective improvement after therapy was evaluated using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. In addition, we evaluated a number of OSA patients who chose to start PAP therapy without healthcare benefit (from July 2018 to December 2018).

Results

Each of the 50 patients in the Group A and B exhibited PAP adherence rates of 82% and 26%, respectively (P < .001). Age did not affect PAP adherence in the Group A. The mean apnea‐hypopnea index (from 36.7 to 1.34, P < .001) and ESS (from 7.6 to 5.6, P = .004) scores of patients in the Group A had significantly improved within the first three months. Twenty‐three (23 out of 334, 6.9%) OSA patients did not have any healthcare insurance, but they medically needed PAP therapy. However, only one of the 23 patients began PAP treatment.

Conclusion

Short‐term PAP adherence significantly improved after PAP therapy was included in healthcare insurance coverage.
Effects of extreme weather events on child mood and behavior
Authors: Barkin Jennifer L , Buoli Massimiliano , Curry Carolann Lee , von Esenwein Silke A , Upadhyay Saswati , Kearney Maggie Bridges , Mach Katharine
Published: March 2021

Extreme weather events (EWEs) are increasing in frequency and severity as the planet continues to become warmer. Resulting disasters have the potential to wreak havoc on the economy, infrastructure, family unit, and human health. Global estimates project that children will be disproportionately impacted by the changing climate – shouldering 88% of the related burdens. Exposure to EWEs in childhood is traumatic, with ramifications for mental health specifically. Symptoms of posttraumatic stress, depression, and anxiety have all been associated with childhood EWE exposure and have the potential to persist under certain circumstances. Conversely, many childhood survivors of EWE also demonstrate resilience and experience only transient symptoms. While the majority of studies are focused on the effects resulting from one specific type of disaster (hurricanes), we have synthesized the literature across the various types of EWEs. We describe psychological symptoms and behavior, the potential for long‐term effects, and potential protective factors and risk factors.

What this paper adds

Climate change‐related phenomena such as extreme weather events (EWEs) have the potential to impact mood and behavior in children.

Posttraumatic stress (PTS) is the most common mental health consequence in child survivors of EWEs.

PTS is often comorbid with depression and/or anxiety in this group.
Quantitative arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance imaging analysis of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: A case series
Authors: Kano Yuya , Inui Shohei , Uchida Yuto , Sakurai Keita , Muto Masahiro , Sugiyama Hanako , Takeshima Takao , Yuasa Hiroyuki , Yamada Kentaro , Matsukawa Noriyuki
Published: March 2021

Objective

This study aimed to quantify chronological cerebral blood flow (CBF) changes using arterial spin labeling (ASL) magnetic resonance imaging in patients with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS).

Background

Quantitative ASL analyses in RCVS have not been well described in the literature.

Methods

Quantification of ASL using an automated region‐of‐interest placement software and a 5‐point visual scale of vasoconstriction severity was performed in five RCVS patients. The association between CBF changes and RCVS‐related complications was evaluated.

Results

Quantitative ASL revealed variable patterns of decreasing CBF in the first week, followed by subsequent increases. Notably, arterial vasoconstriction paradoxically progressed despite an increase in CBF from the first to the second week; this increase was relatively higher in patients with both cortical subarachnoid hemorrhage and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.

Conclusions

Quantitative ASL revealed that CBF initially decreased and subsequently increased, especially in the second week. These changes may serve as surrogate imaging markers for RCVS‐related complications, and could further contribute to understanding the pathology of RCVS.
Biogeography of the neotropical freshwater stingrays (Myliobatiformes: Potamotrygoninae) reveals effects of continent‐scale paleogeographic change and drainage evolution
Authors: Fontenelle João Pedro , Portella Luna Marques Fernando , Kolmann Matthew A. , Lovejoy Nathan R.
Published: March 2021

Aim

Paleogeographic changes have had profound effects on the evolution and diversity of the Neotropical biota. However, the influence of marine incursions on the origin, diversification, and distribution of fishes is still incompletely understood. We investigate the biogeographical and chronological patterns of diversification for the marine‐derived Neotropical freshwater stingrays (subfamily Potamotrygoninae) at a continental scale.

Location

Neotropics, South America.

Taxa

Neotropical freshwater stingrays. Subfamily Potamotrygoninae (Myliobatiformes: Chondrichthyes).

Methods

We generated a time‐calibrated phylogeny for 35 of the 38 valid species of Neotropical freshwater stingrays, from most of the major river basins of South America, using four genes. We used BEAST2 to determine the chronology of population and species divergence events, and “BioGeoBEARS” to infer historical biogeographic patterns.

Results

The Potamotrygoninae originated during the early/middle Miocene in the upper Amazon region. We recover clades associated with particular geographic areas and detect a recurrent pattern of upper Amazon clades sister to clades in adjacent basins. The timing of dispersals from the upper Amazon to adjacent areas corresponds with the end of the Pebas wetlands. Lower Amazon and Shield associated taxa are relatively young.

Main conclusions

We propose that the origin of the Neotropical freshwater stingrays is related to marine incursions that occurred during the Oligocene/Miocene. Subsequent diversification of Potamotrygoninae occurred in the Pebas wetland system in the upper Amazon with colonization of adjacent basins. These movements were generally unidirectional, with few lineages returning to the upper Amazon, and we speculate that ecological factors drove this pattern. We observed a burst of potamotrygonine diversification 5 Ma that appears to be related to the modern channelization of the Amazon Basin.
Age and aging effects on blood pressure: 15 years follow‐up of Tehran lipid and glucose study
Authors: Khajavi Alireza , Zayeri Farid , Ramezankhani Azra , Nazari Amir , Azizi Fereidoun , Hadaegh Farzad
Published: March 2021

Age is a known predictor of blood pressure (BP); however, the literature mostly includes cross‐sectional investigations. This prospective cohort study aimed to decompose the cross‐sectional and longitudinal age effects on BP. The secondary data were obtained from the Tehran lipid and glucose study, which comprised six repeated measurements of participants, with median follow‐up of 15.8 (interquartile range of 14.2‐16.9) years. The sample is representative of the metropolitan area of Tehran, Iran, containing 7,460 participants aged 20‐70. The cross‐sectional and longitudinal effects of age (age at baseline and aging, respectively) were fitted in the mixed effects models, taking systolic, diastolic, and pulse BPs as response, adjusting for adiposity, smoking, diabetes, and antihypertensive medication, and stratifying for sex and 10‐year age‐groups. The mean age at baseline was 41.3 (SD = 12.9) years, and 41.7% of the participants were male. Age at baseline and aging were directly associated with BP, aging owned the weaker effect, and the largest distinction were for systolic blood pressure of men aged 40‐49 years (0.75 vs 0.10,p‐value < .001). Moreover, the aging effects on systolic and diastolic BPs were higher in men than women, in the age groups 40‐49 and 30‐39 years (0.35 vs 0.10 and 0.30 vs 0.07,p‐values < .001), respectively. Adjusting for adiposity remarkably declined the impact of aging on BP, among the < 50 years old.