bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boron: More Than an Essential Element for Land Plants?
Authors: Pereira Greice Leal , Siqueira João Antonio , Batista-Silva Willian , Cardoso Flávio Barcellos , Nunes-Nesi Adriano , Araújo Wagner L.
Published: January 2021

Although boron (B) is an element that has long been assumed to be an essential plant micronutrient, this assumption has been recently questioned. Cumulative evidence has demonstrated that the players associated with B uptake and translocation by plant roots include a sophisticated set of proteins used to cope with B levels in the soil solution. Here, we summarize compelling evidence supporting the essential role of B in mediating plant developmental programs. Overall, most plant species studied to date have exhibited specific B transporters with tight genetic coordination in response to B levels in the soil. These transporters can uptake B from the soil, which is a highly uncommon occurrence for toxic elements. Moreover, the current tools available to determine B levels cannot precisely determine B translocation dynamics. We posit that B plays a key role in plant metabolic activities. Its importance in the regulation of development of the root and shoot meristem is associated with plant developmental phase transitions, which are crucial processes in the completion of their life cycle. We provide further evidence that plants need to acquire sufficient amounts of B while protecting themselves from its toxic effects. Thus, the development of in vitro and in vivo approaches is required to accurately determine B levels, and subsequently, to define unambiguously the function of B in terrestrial plants.
Using Genetic Engineering Techniques to Develop Banana Cultivars With Fusarium Wilt Resistance and Ideal Plant Architecture
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Yu Renbo , Li Jingyang
Published: January 2021

Bananas (Musa spp.) are an important fruit crop worldwide. The fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), which causes Fusarium wilt, is widely regarded as one of the most damaging plant diseases. Fusarium wilt has previously devastated global banana production and continues to do so today. In addition, due to the current use of high-density banana plantations, desirable banana varieties with ideal plant architecture (IPA) possess high lodging resistance, optimum photosynthesis, and efficient water absorption. These properties may help to increase banana production. Genetic engineering is useful for the development of banana varieties with Foc resistance and ideal plant architecture due to the sterility of most cultivars. However, the sustained immune response brought about by genetic engineering is always accompanied by yield reductions. To resolve this problem, we should perform functional genetic studies of the Musa genome, in conjunction with genome editing experiments, to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying the immune response and the formation of plant architecture in the banana. Further explorations of the genes associated with Foc resistance and ideal architecture might lead to the development of banana varieties with both ideal architecture and pathogen super-resistance. Such varieties will help the banana to remain a staple food worldwide.
Qualitative and Quantitative Phytochemical Analysis of Ononis Hairy Root Cultures
Authors: Gampe Nóra , Szakács Zoltán , Darcsi András , Boldizsár Imre , Szőke Éva , Kuzovkina Inna , Kursinszki László , Béni Szabolcs
Published: January 2021

Hairy root cultures are genetically and biochemically stable, and they regularly possess the same or better biosynthetic capabilities for specialized (secondary) metabolite production compared to the intact plant. Ononis species are well-known herbal remedies in ethnopharmacology and rich sources of isoflavonoids. Besides isoflavones, less prevalent isoflavones and pterocarpans with valuable biological effects can be found in Ononis species as well. As these plants are only collected but not cultivated, biotechnological methods could play a role in the larger-scale extraction of Ononis isoflavonoids. Regarding this information, we aimed to establish Ononis spinosa and Ononis arvensis hairy root cultures (HRCs) and analyze the isoflavonoid profile of hairy root cultures qualitatively and quantitatively, in order to define their capacity to produce biologically valuable isoflavonoids. During the qualitative description, beside isoflavonoids, two new phenolic lactones, namely, bulatlactone 2″-O-β-D-glucoside and ononilactone, were isolated, and their structures were characterized for the first time. Altogether, 29 compounds were identified by the means of UPLC-Orbitrap-MS/MS. Based on UHPLC-UV-DAD measurements, the isoflavonoid spectrum of the Ononis HRCs differed markedly from wild-grown samples, as they produce a limited range of the scaffolds. The most abundant compounds in the HRCs were medicarpin glucoside and sativanone glucoside. The overall isoflavonoid production of the cultures was comparable to wild-grown O. arvensis and approximately twice as high as in wild-grown O. spinosa samples. As the overall content of wild-grown samples include more isoflavonoid derivatives, the HRCs contain structurally less divergent isoflavonoids but in higher quantity.
The Effects of Emotional Working Memory Training on Trait Anxiety
Authors: Veloso Gabrielle C. , Ty Welison Evenston G.
Published: January 2021

Background

Trait anxiety is a pervasive tendency to attend to and experience fears and worries to a disproportionate degree, across various situations. Decreased vulnerability to trait anxiety has been linked to having higher working memory capacity and better emotion regulation; however, the relationship between these factors has not been well-established.

Objective

This study sought to determine if participants who undergo emotional working memory training will have significantly lower trait anxiety post-training. The study also sought to determine if emotion regulation mediated the relationship between working memory training and trait anxiety.

Method

An experimental group comprising of 49 participants underwent 20 days of computerized emotional working memory training, which involved viewing a continuous stream of emotionally-charged content on a grid, and then remembering the location and color of items presented on the grid. The control group comprised of 51 participants.

Results

Participants of the experimental group had significantly lower trait anxiety compared to controls, post-training. Subsequent mediation analysis determined that working memory training capacity gains were significantly related to anxiety reduction as measured by form Y2 of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-Y2). Emotion regulation, as measured by the Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ), was found not to mediate between working memory capacity gains and trait anxiety reduction.

Conclusion

Working memory capacity gains and reductions in levels of trait anxiety were observed following emotional working memory training. The study may therefore be useful in informing interventions targeted at improving working memory capacity, and reducing levels of trait anxiety. Moreover, it proposes for future research to further look into the mediating role of emotion regulation via the development or utilization of more comprehensive measures of emotion regulation.
The Relationship Between the Use of Mobile Social Media and Subjective Well-Being: The Mediating Effect of Boredom Proneness
Authors: Bai Jie , Mo Kunyu , Peng Yue , Hao Wenxuan , Qu Yuanshan , Lei Xiuya , Yang Yang
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study took users of short-form mobile videos as research participants to explore the role of their boredom proneness in mediating the relationship between the use of mobile social media (UMSM) and subjective well-being (SWB).

Methods

A sample of 656 users was evaluated by the Problematic Mobile Social Media Usage Assessment Questionnaire, General Well-Being Schedule, and Boredom Proneness Scale.

Results

Firstly, significant interactions were found between monthly living expenses and the UMSM of the participants, which were recognized as factors affecting SWB. Secondly, the level of living expenses had little effect on the high-level and low-level groups of the UMSM but imposed a significant impact on the medium-level group. Thirdly, the UMSM showed an influence that could positively predict boredom; both the UMSM and boredom demonstrated a negative predictive effect on SWB.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that the inappropriate use of mobile social media negatively affects users’ subjective well-being; boredom partially mediated the relationship between the use of mobile social media and SWB.
Examining the Factorial Structure of the Maternal Separation Anxiety Scale in a Portuguese Sample
Authors: Guedes Maryse , Monteiro Lígia , Santos António J. , Torres Nuno , Veríssimo Manuela
Published: January 2021

The increase in women’s labor market participation emphasizes the importance of understanding maternal separation anxiety, that is, the unpleasant maternal emotional state, due to the actual or anticipated short-term separation from the child. Drawing on the insights of the attachment and psychoanalytic perspectives, the Maternal Separation Anxiety Scale (MSAS) was developed to overcome existing measurement gaps. However, prior research did not replicate its original three-factor structure in the contemporary context and in other cultural settings, using large samples composed of mothers of preschool children. This study aimed to examine the factorial structure of the MSAS in a sample of 597 Portuguese mothers of children aged 5–84 months who completed the questionnaire. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) conducted in subsample 1 revealed a four-factor structure: Maternal Negative Feelings, Beliefs about Exclusive Maternal Care, Need of Proximity, and Perceptions of Separation Benefits for Children. Confirmatory factor analyses conducted in subsample 2 revealed that the original three-factor structure revealed a poor fit, whereas the four-factor solution (obtained in the EFA) revealed an acceptable fit. As in previous studies, our findings report deviations from the original three-factor structure of the MSAS. Three of the newly identified factors seem to reflect specific sub-dimensions that originally guided item development in the MSAS, namely, maternal negative feelings, maternal attitudes about the value of exclusive maternal care, and the need of proximity with the child. The last factor appears to represent a refinement of original items pertaining to perceptions about separation effects for children.
Dog Stick Chewing: An Overlooked Instance of Tool Use?
Authors: Brooks James , Yamamoto Shinya
Published: January 2021

Tool use is a central topic in research on cognitive evolution and behavioral ecology in non-human animals. Originally thought to be a uniquely human phenomenon, many other species have been observed making and using tools for a variety of purposes, starting withGoodall’s (1964)groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Gombe. Despite the frequent attention and great research interest in animal tool use, and ubiquity of the behavior, we argue here that chewing sticks by dogs (and other animals) should be included as a case of tool use. We discuss alternate possible explanations and then propose several testable predictions regarding this hypothesis. We suggest that tool use may be more common than is often assumed and that many cases of animal tool use may be overlooked.
Coping With Governmental Restrictions: The Relationship Between Stay-at-Home Orders, Resilience, and Functional, Social, Mental, Physical, and Financial Well-Being
Authors: Barrett Adriana M. , Hogreve Jens , Brüggen Elisabeth C.
Published: January 2021

The coronavirus outbreak has led to abrupt changes in people’s daily lives as many state governments have restricted individuals’ movements in order to slow the spread of the virus. We conducted a natural experiment in the United States of America in April 2020, in which we compare responses from states with “stay-at-home orders” (3 states) and no such orders (6 states). We surveyed 458 participants (55.6% female, age range 25–64, Mage = 36.5) and examined the effects of these government-imposed restrictions on social, mental, physical, and financial well-being as well as the mediating role of resilience. Structural equation modeling reveals that resilience buffers stay-at-home orders’ potential side-effects on well-being. Specifically, individuals living in states with stay-at-home orders report lower functional well-being than individuals living in states without such orders, which negatively relates to resilience. Resilience in turn is associated with higher social, mental, physical, and financial well-being. Thus, resilience can be seen as an effective means of buffering stay-at-home orders’ potential negative effects on the components of well-being. Our results indicate the central role of resilience, which is crucial in dampening the effects of stay-at-home orders on well-being. Following our results, governments and policymakers should focus their efforts on strengthening individuals’ resilience, which is a key predictor of social, mental, financial, and physical well-being.
A Constructivist Intervention Program for the Improvement of Mathematical Performance Based on Empiric Developmental Results (PEIM)
Authors: Bermejo Vicente , Ester Pilar , Morales Isabel
Published: January 2021

Teaching mathematics and improving mathematics competence are pending subjects within our educational system. The PEIM (Programa Evolutivo Instruccional para Matemáticas), a constructivist intervention program for the improvement of mathematical performance, affects the different agents involved in math learning, guaranteeing a significant improvement in students’ performance. The program is based on the following pillars: (a) students become the main agents of their learning by constructing their own knowledge; (b) the teacher must be the guide to facilitate and guarantee such a construction by being a great connoisseur of the fundamental aspects of the development of the child’s mathematical thinking; (c) the mathematical contents must be sequenced in terms of the complexity and significance for the student as well as contextualized at all times; and (d) the classroom must have a constructivist climate highlighting cooperative work among students. The implementation of PEIM along with the empirical evaluation conducted in several centers in Madrid and Zaragoza (Spain) confirm how students improve their mathematical competence. Both first- and second-grade students in elementary education were far more effective in solving problems, highlighting the use of more advanced strategies in their resolution and a lower incidence of conceptual errors. Moreover, it was possible to verify how the students proving greater difficulty, experienced an evolution in learning similarly to those who did not present it. The program provides customized education to allow the teacher to know at all times how he should be more influential on the students’ learning through mathematical profiles. Both teaching practice and teachers were observed, being that of the experimental group more prone to analyzing processes and allowing the construction of knowledge by students, due to their psycho-developmental training. As a result, we found several improvements through the implementation of the program that may serve, for upcoming years, as a basis for the necessary changes in the teaching of mathematics.
When a Circle Becomes the Letter O: Young Children’s Conceptualization of Learning and Its Relation With Theory of Mind Development
Authors: Wang Zhenlin , Frye Douglas A.
Published: January 2021

In two independent yet complementary studies, the current research explored the developmental changes of young children’s conceptualization of learning, focusing the role of knowledge change and learning intention, and its association with their developing theory of mind (ToM) ability. In study 1, 75 children between 48 and 86 months of age (M = 65.45, SD = 11.45, 36 girls) judged whether a character with or without a genuine knowledge change had learned. The results showed that younger children randomly attributed learning between genuine knowledge change and accidental coincidence that did not involve knowledge change. Children’s learning judgments in familiar contexts improved with age and correlated with their ToM understanding. However, the correlation was no longer significant once age was held constant. Another sample of 72 children aged between 40 and 90 months (M = 66.87, SD = 11.83, 31 girls) participated in study 2, where children were asked to judge whether the story protagonists intended to learn and whether they eventually learned. The results suggested that children over-attributed learning intention to discovery and implicit learning. Stories with conflict between the learning intention and outcome appeared to be most challenging for children. Children’s intention judgment was correlated with their ToM understanding, and ToM marginally predicted intention judgment when the effect of age was accounted for. The implication of the findings for school readiness was discussed. Training studies and longitudinal designs in the future are warranted to better understand the relation between ToM development and children’s learning understanding.
Protocol for the Adaptation of a Direct Observational Measure of Parent-Child Interaction for Use With 7–8-Year-Old Children
Authors: Bennetts Shannon K. , Love Jasmine , Westrupp Elizabeth M. , Hackworth Naomi J. , Mensah Fiona K. , Nicholson Jan M. , Levickis Penny
Published: January 2021

Objective

Parenting sensitivity and mutual parent-child attunement are key features of environments that support children’s learning and development. To-date, observational measures of these constructs have focused on children aged 2–6 years and are less relevant to the more sophisticated developmental skills of children aged 7–8 years, despite parenting being equally important at these ages. We undertook a rigorous process to adapt an existing observational measure for 7–8-year-old children and their parents. This paper aimed to: (i) describe a protocol for adapting an existing framework for rating parent-child interactions, (ii) determine variations in parents’ sensitive responding and parent-child mutual attunement (‘positive mutuality’) by family demographics, and (iii) evaluate the psychometric properties of the newly developed measure (i.e., inter-rater reliability, construct validity).

Method

Parent-child dyads completed one home visit, including a free-play observation and parent questionnaire. Dyads were provided with three toy sets: LEGO® Classic Box, Classic Jenga®, and animal cards. The Coding of Attachment-Related Parenting (CARP) was adapted for use with 7–8-year-old children, and rating procedures were streamlined for reliable use by non-clinician/student raters, producing the SCARP:7–8 Years. Trained staff rated video-recorded observations on 11 behaviors across two domains (five for parents’ sensitive responding, six for parent-child positive mutuality).

Results

Data were available for 596 dyads. Consistently strong inter-rater agreement on the 11 observed behaviors was achieved across the 10-week rating period (average: 87.6%, range: 71.7% to 96.7%). Average ICCs were 0.77 for sensitive responding and 0.84 for positive mutuality. These domains were found to be related but distinct constructs (r = 0.49, p < 0.001). For both domains, average ratings were strongly associated with the main toy used during the observation (p < 0.001, highest: cards, lowest: LEGO®). Adjusted multivariate linear regression models (accounting for toy choice) revealed that less sensitive responding was associated with younger parent (p = 0.04), male parent (p = 0.03), non-English speaking background (p = 0.04), and greater neighborhood disadvantage (p = 0.02). Construct validity was demonstrated using six parent-reported psychosocial and parenting measures.

Conclusion

The SCARP: 7–8 Years shows promise as a reliable and valid measure of parent-child interaction in the early school years. Toy selection for direct observation should be considered carefully in research and practice settings.
Imagery Rehearsal Based Art Therapy: Treatment of Post-traumatic Nightmares in Art Therapy
Authors: Haeyen Suzanne , Staal Merel
Published: January 2021

Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) is effective for trauma-related nightmares and is also a challenge to patients in finding access to their traumatic memories, because these are saved in non-verbal, visual, or audiovisual language. Art therapy (AT) is an experiential treatment that addresses images rather than words. This study investigates the possibility of an IRT-AT combination. Systematic literature review and field research was conducted, and the integration of theoretical and practice-based knowledge resulted in a framework for Imagery Rehearsal-based Art Therapy (IR-AT). The added value of AT in IRT appears to be more readily gaining access to traumatic experiences, living through feelings, and breaking through avoidance. Exposure and re-scripting take place more indirectly, experientially and sometimes in a playlike manner using art assignments and materials. In the artwork, imagination, play and fantasy offer creative space to stop the vicious circle of nightmares by changing theme, story line, ending, or any part of the dream into a more positive and acceptable one. IR-AT emerges as a promising method for treatment, and could be especially useful for patients who benefit least from verbal exposure techniques. This description of IR-AT offers a base for further research.
The Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Konturek Thomas Jan , Martinez Cristina , Niesler Beate , van der Voort Ivo , Mönnikes Hubert , Stengel Andreas , Goebel-Stengel Miriam
Published: January 2021

Several studies have implied a role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in abdominal pain modulation in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The aim of this study was to establish BDNF protein expression in human colonic biopsies and to show variation in IBS compared to controls. BDNF protein and mRNA levels were correlated with IBS symptom severity based on the IBS-symptom severity score (IBS-SSS). Biopsies from the descending colon and IBS-SSS were obtained from 10 controls and 20 IBS patients. Total protein of biopsies was extracted and assessed by ELISA and Western Blot. Total mRNA was extracted and gene expression measured by nCounter analysis. In IBS patients, symptom severity scores ranged from 124 to 486 (mean ± sem: 314.2 ± 21.2, >300 represents severe IBS) while controls ranged from 0 to 72 (mean ± sem: 27.7 ± 9.0, <75 represents healthy subjects,p< 0.001). IBS patients reported significantly more food malabsorption, former abdominal surgery and psychiatric comorbidities. BDNF protein was present in all samples and did not differ between IBS and controls or sex. Subgroup analysis showed that female IBS patients expressed significantly more BDNF mRNA compared to male patients (p< 0.05) and male IBS-D patients had higher IBS symptom severity scores and lower BDNF mRNA and protein levels compared to male controls (p< 0.05). Scatter plot showed a significant negative correlation between IBS-SSS and BDNF mRNA levels in the cohort of male IBS-D patients and their male controls (p< 0.05). We detected a high proportion of gastrointestinal surgery in IBS patients and confirmed food intolerances and psychiatric diseases as common comorbidities. Although in a small sample, we demonstrated that BDNF is detectable in human descending colon, with higher BDNF mRNA levels in female IBS patients compared to males and lower mRNA and protein levels in male IBS-D patients compared to male controls. Further research should be directed toward subgroups of IBS since their etiologies might be different.
Global Imperative of Suicidal Ideation in 10 Countries Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cheung Teris , Lam Simon Ching , Lee Paul Hong , Xiang Yu Tao , Yip Paul Siu Fai ,   The International Research Collaboration on COVID-19
Published: January 2021

Background:The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has had a detrimental impact on individuals' psychological well-being; however, a multi-country comparison on the prevalence of suicidal ideation due to the virus is still lacking.

Objectives:To examine the prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation among the general population across 10 countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and methods:This was a cross-sectional study which used convenience sampling and collected data by conducting an online survey. Participants were sourced from 10 Eastern and Western countries. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used to measure the outcome variable of suicidal ideation. Ordinal regression analysis was used to identify significant predictors associated with suicidal ideation.

Results:A total of 25,053 participants (22.7% male) were recruited. Results from the analysis showed that the UK and Brazil had the lowest odds of suicidal ideation compared to Macau (p< 0.05). Furthermore, younger age, male, married, and differences in health beliefs were significantly associated with suicidal ideation (p< 0.05).

Conclusions:The findings highlight the need for joint international collaboration to formulate effective suicide prevention strategies in a timely manner and the need to implement online mental health promotion platforms. In doing so, the potential global rising death rates by suicide during the pandemic can be reduced.
The Study of Motivation in the Suicidal Process: The Motivational Interview for Suicidality
Authors: Moselli Marta , Frattini Camilla , Williams Riccardo , Ronningstam Elsa
Published: January 2021

Introduction:Suicide is the outcome of a process starting with the experiences of an unbearable pain or hopelessness, passing from suicidal ideation and planning, to possible para-suicidal behaviors or actual attempts. Recent studies have evidenced the necessity to integrate approaches based on the identification of psychopathological diagnoses and other variables as possible predictors of suicidal conduct with a more clinically based approach. A clinical assessment is needed that focuses on the patients' mental state with respect to thoughts concerning death and suicide. In particular, a qualitative assessment of motivations underlying the suicidal process could represent an effective guide for clinicians engaged in the difficult field of preventing adolescents' suicidal gestures. Most instruments investigating the suicidal motivation are self-report measures, possibly resulting in a lack of sufficiently valid assessment of this area. In the present work, we present the Motivational Interview for Suicidality in Adolescence (MIS-A) aiming at identifying the motivational areas sustaining suicidal ideation and gestures in this phase of development.

Materials and Methods:The identification of the different areas derives from a thorough review of the empirical literature subsequently vetted by expert clinicians who selected specific reasons behind suicidal ideation and gesture.

Result:The MIS is a semi-structured clinician-report interview. The interview is composed of seven areas and 14 sub-areas, evaluated on a four-point Likert scale: illness motivated attempts area, chronic presence of internal pessimistic criticism area, sense of defeat and entrapment area, relational area, external motivated crisis area, extreme and unusual cases area, and lack of control area.

Conclusions:The path followed in the creation of the MIS reflects both an empirically orientated and a clinically informed approach. Creating this MIS is the first step within a wider research project that will allow one to test the reliability of the instrument.
CNVs and Chromosomal Aneuploidy in Patients With Early-Onset Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder: Genotype-Phenotype Associations
Authors: Gregoric Kumperscak Hojka , Krgovic Danijela , Drobnic Radobuljac Maja , Senica Nina , Zagorac Andreja , Kokalj Vokac Nadja
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Early-onset schizophrenia (EOS) and bipolar disorder (EOB) start before the age of 18 years and have a more severe clinical course, a worse prognosis, and a greater genetic loading compared to the late-onset forms. Copy number variations (CNVs) are an important genetic factor in the etiology of psychiatric disorders. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze CNVs in patients with EOS and EOB and to establish genotype-phenotype relationships for contiguous gene syndromes or genes affected by identified CNVs.

Methods: Molecular karyotyping was performed in 45 patients, 38 with EOS and seven with EOB hospitalized between 2010 and 2017. The exclusion criteria were medical or neurological disorders or IQ under 70. Detected CNVs were analyzed according to the standards and guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics.

Result: Molecular karyotyping showed CNVs in four patients with EOS (encompassing the PAK2, ADAMTS3, and ADAMTSL1 genes, and the 16p11.2 microduplication syndrome) and in two patients with EOB (encompassing the ARHGAP11B and PRODH genes). In one patient with EOB, a chromosomal aneuploidy 47, XYY was found.

Discussion: Our study is the first study of CNVs in EOS and EOB patients in Slovenia. Our findings support the association of the PAK2, ARHGAP11B, and PRODH genes with schizophrenia and/or bipolar disorder. To our knowledge, this is also the first report of a multiplication of the ADAMTSL1 gene and the smallest deletion of the PAK2 gene in a patient with EOS, and one of the few reports of the 47, XYY karyotype in a patient with EOB.
Does Hippocampal Volume Predict Transition to Psychosis in a High-Risk Group? A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hinney Bernd , Walter Anna , Aghlmandi Soheila , Andreou Christina , Borgwardt Stefan
Published: January 2021

Schizophrenia has a prodromal phase of several years in most patients, making it possible to identify patients at clinical high risk (CHR) for developing the disorder. So far, these individuals are identified based on clinical criteria alone, and there is no reliable biomarker for predicting the transition to psychosis. It is well-established that reductions in brain volume, especially in the hippocampus, are associated with schizophrenia. Therefore, hippocampal volume may serve as a biomarker for psychosis. Several studies have already investigated hippocampal volume in CHR groups. Based on these studies, the present meta-analysis compares the baseline left and right hippocampal volume of CHR patients who developed a psychosis with that of CHR patients without such a transition. Our results show no statistically significant effect of the hippocampal volume on the transition risk for psychosis.
Case Report: Lateral Habenula Deep Brain Stimulation for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Authors: Wang Zhiyan , Cai Xiaodong , Qiu Rirang , Yao Chen , Tian Ye , Gong Chen , Zhang Yingli , Xu Bin , Zhang Doudou , Zang Yu , Liu Jiali , Peng Bo , Li Luming
Published: January 2021

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a chronic and severe psychiatric illness associated with limited therapeutic options. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a promising therapy for TRD patients. However, its safety and efficacy are still unclear. Here we reported the safety and efficacy of lateral habenula (LHb) DBS for a TRD patient who had failed medical, psychological, electroconvulsive, and ketamine therapy. The DBS system is compatible with 3T magnetic resonance imaging along with local field potential (LFP) streaming. Two DBS electrodes were implanted at the bilateral LHb without any complication. The patient showed acute stimulation effects and achieved long-term improvements in his depression, anxiety, and sleep with left LHb 160 Hz frequency stimulation, accompanying the change of LFPs. These results provided clinical evidence toward the safety and efficacy and electrophysiological basis of LHb DBS for TRD.
IPS in Supported Housing: Fidelity and Employment Outcomes Over a 4 Year Period
Authors: Roeg Diana , de Winter Lars , Bergmans Cris , Couwenbergh Chrisje , McPherson Peter , Killaspy Helen , van Weeghel Jaap
Published: January 2021

Background: People with severe mental illness have difficulties finding and maintaining competitive employment. This is particularly so for those living in supported housing who, by definition, have significant day-to-day support needs: in the Netherlands only 3 to 5% of people with serious mental health problems who live in supported housing are competitively employed. To support these people in finding and maintaining competitive employment, Individual Placement, and Support (IPS) was introduced within supported housing services in the Netherlands in 2015. As this is the first country that broadly implemented IPS in supported housing settings, this paper will focus on the first results regarding feasibility and effects on employment in clients of IPS in this sector.

Methods: We investigated the feasibility and employment outcomes of delivering IPS in supported housing services using fidelity assessments and quarterly employment outcomes on IPS program level within eight supported housing organizations, and compared these with 21 mental health treatment organizations in the Netherlands over a 4 year period. We investigated possible reasons for our findings and their implications through qualitative evaluations of the IPS fidelity assessors' notes and additional focus groups with IPS specialists and coordinators from supported housing services and fidelity assessors.

Results: The overall fidelity scores indicated reasonable implementation of the IPS model within both supported housing services and mental health services. However, there were differences between services with regard to specific fidelity items; mental health treatment organizations scored higher for team integration, whereas supported housing services scored higher for rapid job search and caseload size, diversity of jobs, and employers. Our qualitative data suggested that the difference in team integration between the two sectors was due to differences in their organizational and financial structures, as well as in the specific needs of their clients. Conversely, supported housing services had better connections with employers which facilitated more rapid job searching and greater diversity in employment opportunities. The average total client employment rate did not significantly differ; and was 25.8% per quarter in supported housing services and 29.6% in mental health treatment services.

Conclusion: Implementing IPS in supported housing settings is both feasible and effective.
Case Report: Successful Implementation of Integrative Cognitive Remediation for Early Psychosis
Authors: Vidarsdottir Olina G. , Roberts David L. , Twamley Elizabeth W. , Gudmundsdottir Berglind , Sigurdsson Engilbert , Magnusdottir Brynja B.
Published: January 2021

Many individuals demonstrate functionally relevant impairment in neurocognition as well as social cognition early on in the course of their psychotic disorder. There is robust evidence supporting cognitive remediation as an effective treatment of cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia. Increasingly it is accepted that earlier treatment is associated with better outcome and that it is important to systematically assess and treat cognitive dysfunction before the cognitive and functional disabilities are fully realized. However, the clinical availability of these interventions remains sparse. As we move forward with implementing evidence-based interventions into multi-component treatment for early psychosis, it is important to reflect on experience as well as evidence. This case report aims to describe the implementation of an integrative cognitive remediation program in coordinated specialty care (CSC) for early psychosis in Iceland and investigate whether the intervention is sustainable in a CSC setting. Data on the number of patients treated, facilitators trained, groups conducted, and funding was used to assess the sustainability. The results show that since initial implementation in 2016, the intervention has been routinely available as part of standard care, with over 100 patients having received the treatment. The report discusses key factors in the successful implementation of the program.
Clinical Symptom Differences Between Mild and Severe COVID-19 Patients in China: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Xiaobo , Cheng Xiao , Feng Xudong , Wan Hong , Chen Sihan , Xiong Maoming
Published: January 2021

Objective: The prognosis of mild and severe patients has prominent differences during the prevalence of COVID-19, and it will be significant to identify patients' potential risk of progressing to severe cases according to their first clinical presentations. Therefore, we aim to review the clinical symptoms of the COVID-19 epidemic systematically.

Methods:We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CNKI (Chinese Database) for studies about the clinical features of COVID-19 in China from March 18 to April 18. Then we used REVMAN to conduct a meta-analysis.

Results: After screening, 20 articles including 3,326 COVID-19 confirmed cases were selected from 142 articles we retrieved at the beginning of our research. We divided all the cases into a severe group (including severe and critically severe patients) and a mild group according to the “Diagnosis and Treatment Protocol for Novel Coronavirus Infection-Induced Pneumonia” version 4 (trial). Of all the initial symptoms (including fever, cough, abdominal pain, anorexia, chest tightness, diarrhea, dyspnea, expectoration, fatigue, headache, hemoptysis, myalgia, nausea or vomiting, and pharyngalgia) we studied, we found that cough (odds ratio [OR] = 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2–1.7; p < 0.001), fever (OR = 1.5, 95% CI: 1.2–1.9; p < 0.001), dyspnea (OR = 6.2, 95% CI: 3.6–10.6; p < 0.001), diarrhea (OR = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.3–4.9; p < 0.001), fatigue (OR = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.3–3.3; p < 0.01), expectoration (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.2–2.6; p < 0.01), myalgia (OR = 1.6, 95% CI: 0.8–3.1; p < 0.001), hemoptysis (OR = 4.0, 95% CI: 1.5–11.3; p < 0.001), abdominal pain (OR = 7.5, 95% CI: 2.4–23.4; p < 0.001), and anorexia (OR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.5–5.1; p < 0.001) had a different distribution in two groups and were statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:COVID-19 patients whose initial manifestation is dyspnea, hemoptysis, anorexia, diarrhea, or fatigue, especially abdominal pain should be closely monitored to prevent disease deterioration.
How Does Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Correlate in Relation to COVID-19? A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Nepal
Authors: Devkota Hridaya Raj , Sijali Tula Ram , Bogati Ramji , Clarke Andrew , Adhikary Pratik , Karkee Rajendra
Published: January 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has created a global health emergency requiring an effective public health response including citizen's roles in preventing spread and controlling the pandemic. Little is known about public knowledge, beliefs and behaviors in-relation to the pandemic in Nepal. This study aims to assess knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) toward COVID-19 among the general public and to identify associated factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between May–June 2020 with a sample of 645, recruited from 26 hospitals across Nepal. We conducted telephone interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire related to KAP regarding COVID-19. T-test and one-way ANOVA was conducted to determine group differences for socio-demographic variables. Linear regression and correlational analysis were performed to identify associated factors and measure strength and direction of relationships.

Results: Overall mean scores for knowledge, attitude and practice were 11.6 (SD 4.5), 2.7 (SD 1.8), and 9.9 (SD 1.93) respectively, but differed by socio-demographic characteristics. Positive but weak linear correlations were observed between knowledge-practice (r = 0.19, p < 0.01) and attitude-practice (r = 0.08, p < 0.05). The relationship between knowledge and education was fairly strong (r = 0.34, p < 0.01). Province, place of residence, ecological area, age, gender and caste/ethnicity were also significantly associated with KAP score of participants.

Conclusion: The study found varying degrees of correlation between Knowledge, Attitude and Practice that may increase as the pandemic evolves in Nepal. Knowledge and level of education had positive associations with attitude and adherence to precautionary measures. The findings suggest a need for targeted community awareness interventions for the most vulnerable populations, men, those with no school education, the elderly and people living in rural areas.
On the Variation of Intermittency of Fast and Slow Solar Wind With Radial Distance, Heliospheric Latitude, and Solar Cycle
Authors: Wawrzaszek Anna , Echim Marius
Published: January 2021

Intermittency, an important property of astrophysical plasma turbulence, is studied extensively during last decades fromin-situmeasurements of the solar wind plasma and magnetic field in the ecliptic plane and at higher latitudes, and heliocentric distances between 0.3 and 5 Astronomical Units. In this paper, we review the main findings on intermittency derived from investigation of solar wind turbulence for the inertial range of scales. It turns out that our current knowledge on the evolution of intermittency in the heliosphere is based on two missions, Helios two and Ulysses. We discuss the importance of data selection methodologies and applications for heliospheric spacecraft, the different data analysis techniques (the anomalous scaling of the structure function, the non-Gaussianity of the probability distribution functions, the local intermittency measure estimated from a wavelet representation and the multifractal spectrum). Studies show that Alvénic solar wind is less intermittent but reveals increase with the radial distance. Moreover, intermittency is stronger for the magnetic than for velocity fluctuations and is considered to be responsible for the increase with the radial distance of the anisotropy of magnetic fluctuations. The intermittency of fast solar wind at solar minimum decreases with latitude. Finally, the level of intermittency in the solar wind depends on solar cycle phase, reflecting the changes of the state of solar wind and suggesting that the deeper study of origin of fast and slow wind can further improve our understanding of the intermittency.
Athlete's Perceptions of a “Quarantine” Training Camp During the COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Washif Jad Adrian , Mohd Kassim Siti Fuzyma Ayu , Lew Philip Chun Foong , Chong Christabelle Sheau Miin , James Carl
Published: January 2021

Globally, COVID-19-related movement restrictions have caused significant disruption to athlete's training and sporting competitions. “Quarantine” camps are one approach to maintain sport-specific training, whilst minimizing the risk of COVID-19 transmission between athletes and society. This cross-sectional study investigated the effects of a “quarantine” training camp on athlete's routines and wellbeing, performance support, perceived stress and sleep behaviors. A survey was completed at the end of a 30-day “quarantine” camp, by 76 elite athletes (17–46 years), predominantly (~80%) Olympic/Paralympic and/or world championship representatives. Athletes described their experiences in comparison to; pre-lockdown training and/or training during “lockdown” (immediately prior to the “quarantine” camp). Compared to “lockdown,” the “quarantine” camp revealed improvements (p < 0.05; 0.33 ≤ d ≤ 0.90) in access to sport-specific training (28.6%), recovery facilities (22.2%), nutritional choices (17.5%), mental (12.4%) and emotional (11.4%) health, training motivation (20.0%); and perceived stress (7.4%, d = −0.27, p = 0.026). The camp resulted in a lower sleep duration (−8.5%, d = −0.73, p = 0.014), but an improved global sleep behavior score (−5.6%, d = −0.22, p = 0.001). During the camp, the performance support athletes received was not different to pre-lockdown (p > 0.05), but there was greater sports massage (20.4%, d = 0.39) and physiotherapy usage (18.1%, d = 0.36) (both p < 0.05). The adverse effects of lockdown were restored during the camp. A “quarantine” camp may offer comparable training experiences to pre-lockdown training, without inducing additional perceived stress. Coaches and sporting organizations may consider this approach as part of a virus mitigation strategy, whilst maintaining sport-specific training.
Preliminary Characterization of Dog Derived Pathogenic Strains of Leptospira interrogans Serovar Australis in Nanchang of Jiangxi Province, China
Authors: Song Ning , Zhang Wenlong , Ding Yue , Wu Dianjun , Dai Zonghao , Xu Li , Cao Yongguo
Published: January 2021

Leptospirosis is a global zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic Leptospira, and those infected animals will show a variety of clinical symptoms and even death. The discovery of endemic strains is crucial to produce effective vaccines. In this study, we report that a strain of Leptospira, isolated from a dog, is pathogenic. Using MLST analysis, the serovar of isolated Leptospira was identified and found it belongs to Leptospira interrogation Serovar Australis. Then, the virulence of this strain was researched by using hamsters. After infection, all the hamsters died within 4–5 days. Typical pathological changes were found in the liver, kidney, and lung of hamsters. These results all indicated that the isolated Leptospira was pathogenic. Thus, this study facilitates to identifying local Leptospira strains and develop a more targeted canine Leptospira vaccine.
The Efficacy of Operational Bird Strike Prevention
Authors: Metz Isabel , Ellerbroek Joost , Mühlhausen Thorsten , Kügler Dirk , Kern Stefan , Hoekstra Jacco
Published: January 2021

Involving air traffic controllers and pilots into the bird strike prevention process is considered an essential step to increase aviation and avian safety. Prior to implementing operational measures such as real-time warning systems, it is vital to evaluate their feasibility. This paper studies the efficacy of a bird strike advisory system for air traffic control. In addition to the potential safety benefit, the possible impact on airport operations is analyzed. To this end, a previously developed collision avoidance algorithm underlying the system was tested in fast-time Monte Carlo simulations involving various air traffic and bird densities to obtain representative conclusions for different operational conditions. The results demonstrate the strong safety potential of operational bird strike prevention in case of precise bird movement prediction. Unless airports operate close to their capacity limits while bird abundance is high, the induced delays remain tolerable. Prioritization of hazardous strikes involving large individuals as well as flocks of birds are expected to support operational feasibility in all conditions.