bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SoftSystem: Smart Edge Computing Device Selection Method for IoT Based on Soft Set Technique
Authors: Shafiq Muhammad , Tian Zhihong , Bashir Ali Kashif , Cengiz Korhan , Tahir Adnan
Published: October 2020

The Internet of Things (IoT) is growing day by day, and new IoT devices are introduced and interconnected. Due to this rapid growth, IoT faces several issues related to communication in the edge computing network. The critical issue in these networks is the effective edge computing IoT device selection whenever there are several edge nodes to carry information. To overcome this problem, in this paper, we proposed a new framework model named SoftSystem based on the soft set technique that recommends useful IIoT devices. Then, we proposed an algorithm named Softsystemalgo. For the proposed system, three different parameters are selected: IoT Device Security (IDSC), IoT Device Storage (IDST), and IoT Device Communication Speed (IDCS). We also find out the most significant parameters from the given set of parameters. It is evident that our proposed system is effective for the selection of edge computing devices in the IoT network.
Cannabis Use during Pregnancy and Risk of Adverse Birth Outcomes: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Gabrhelík Roman , Mahic Milada , Lund Ingunn Olea , Bramness Jørgen , Selmer Randi , Skovlund Eva , Handal Marte , Skurtveit Svetlana
Published: October 2020

Background: With recent changes in legislation regulating recreational and medical cannabis use around the globe, increased use in pregnancy is to be expected. Objectives: To investigate the association between cannabis use during pregnancy and birth outcomes. Method: Data from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), a prospective pregnancy cohort, were used. Participants were recruited from all over Norway between 1999 and 2008: 9,312 women with 10,373 pregnancies who reported use of cannabis before or in pregnancy. Women reported on their illegal drug use before pregnancy and at pregnancy weeks 17/18 and 30 and at 6 months postpartum. Linear regression was used to estimate crude and adjusted effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on birth outcomes. Results: In 10,101 pregnancies, women had used cannabis before pregnancy but not during pregnancy. In 272 pregnancies, women had used cannabis during pregnancy, and among these, in 63 pregnancies, women had used cannabis in at least 2 periods. In adjusted analyses for potential confounders, only cannabis use during at least 2 periods of pregnancy showed statistically significant effects on birth weight. The effect was observed in the complete cohort (B = −228 g, 95% CI = −354 to −102, p < 0.001) and for the subgroup where information about the child’s father was available (B = −225 g, 95% CI = −387 to −63, p = 0.01). Our results may indicate that prolonged use causes more harm, whereas short-term use did not indicate adverse effects on birth outcomes. Conclusions: There was a statistically significant and clinically relevant association between the use of cannabis during pregnancy and reduced birth weight. Clinicians should screen not only for cannabis use but also for the length and intensity of use as part of a comprehensive substance use screening.
Efficacy of a Salt Iodization Program on Iodine Status and Intakes in Schoolchildren of São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal
Authors: Moniz Catarina Senra , Carvalho Rita , Prazeres Susana , Limbert Edward , Mendes Inês , César Rui
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Iodine is an essential micronutrient and its deficiency can severely impact children’s development. In 2012, the Thyroid Study Group of the Portuguese Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism discovered that the median urinary iodine concentration (mUIC) level in schoolchildren of São Miguel was far too low at 70.9 μg/L. In response, the government implemented a salt iodization program to help normalize levels. This investigation evaluated the efficacy of such an approach. Methods: Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was evaluated in 362 schoolchildren from São Miguel using the fast colorimetric method. Results: mUIC was 106.7 μg/L, significantly higher than that observed in 2012 (p < 0.001). Over half (55.5%) of the schoolchildren had a UIC >100 μg/L versus 23.0% in 2012 (p < 0.001). 9.4% of schoolchildren had a UIC <50 μg/L, significantly lower than the 30.6% reported in 2012 (p < 0.001). Discussion/Conclusion: Five years after the implementation of the government salt iodization program, the mUIC increased from 70.9 to 106.7 μg/L. This study confirms the efficacy of the adopted measures in schoolchildren population.
Cosmarium tutum nom. nov. a new name for Cosmarium perforatum var. skujae (Charophyta, Desmidiaceae), a rare taxon newly found in Ukraine

Authors: SHYNDANOVINA IRYNA
Published: October 2020

The flora of Chernihiv Polissya (northern Ukraine) is rich in rare taxa of desmids. One of these taxa is Cosmarium perforatum var. skujae Grönblad, the eighth documented occurrence of this taxon in Europe. Based on observations over several years, the morphology and taxonomy of C. perforatum var. skujae is discussed comparing it to the type variety C. perforatum var. perforatum living in the same habitat. Distinct morphological characters and differences in variability between these closely affiliated taxa are grounds for elevating C. perforatum var. skujae to the status of an independent species. In order to avoid homonymy with Cosmarium skujae Willi Krieger & Gerloff, a new name, Cosmarium tutum is proposed for this taxon.
Bending performance enhancement by nanoparticles for FFF 3D printed nylon and nylon/Kevlar composites
Authors: Wang Yachao , Shi Jing , Liu Zhihui
Published: October 2020

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) has been a major 3D printing technique for making thermoplastic products for decades. However, FFF printing for thermoplastic composites with aligned continuous fibers has been reported with limited success for only several years. In this study, we introduce an enhanced FFF-based approach by incorporating nanoparticles to the thermoplastic composites with continuous fibers. Our investigation focuses on the bending properties of FFF-printed fiber reinforced composites with and without nanoparticles. With Nylon 6 (PA 6) being the matrix material, nanocomposite filaments are obtained by adding carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene nano platelets (GNPs), or amino (NH2-) functionalized GNPs. Various PA 6 matrix nanocomposite filaments are prepared through mixing and filament extrusion process. The nanocomposite filaments are then 3D printed with or without continuous Kevlar fiber prepreg filaments. For 3D printed pure PA 6, the addition of 1 wt% GNP-NH2 increases the flexural strength and bending modulus by 334% and 315%, respectively. For 3D printed PA 6/Kevlar composite, the addition of 1 wt% GNP-NH2 increases the flexural strength and bending modulus by 195% and 35%, respectively. However, the addition of CNTs or GNPs (up to 1 wt%) is less effective as compared with GNP-NH2. The underlying mechanisms are discussed based on the matrix/fiber interfacial analysis.
Preverbal skills in 8-month-old children with sex chromosome trisomies
Authors: Zampini Laura , Burla Tiziana , Silibello Gaia , Capelli Elena , Dall’Ara Francesca , Rigamonti Claudia , Ajmone Paola Francesca , Monti Federico , Zanchi Paola , Lalatta Faustina , Costantino Maria Antonella , Vizziello Paola Giovanna
Published: October 2020

Individuals with sex chromosome trisomies (SCTs) have an increased risk of language delays and impairments. However, there are only a few data relative to their language development in early childhood. The present study aimed to investigate the preverbal skills shown by a group of 8-month-old children with SCTs to assess the presence of a possible early communicative delay. Moreover, the predictive role of early preverbal productions on later lexical development at 24 months was analysed. Twenty-six children with SCTs and 24 typically developing (TD) children participated in the study. Their use of vocal productions and gazes addressed to the communicative partner was assessed during a parent–child observation session held when the children were 8 months old. In addition, the children’s word comprehension at 8 months and their word production at 24 months were indirectly assessed by a parental report. Children’s word comprehension was similar in the two groups of children, whereas a significantly lower frequency per minute of gazes was found in children with SCTs than in TD children. A significantly lower proportion of children with SCTs showed the ability to produce babbling during the observation session, and significant differences were also found in the frequency of babbling utterances. No significant differences emerged among the subgroups of children with different types of SCTs. The predictive role of babbling on later lexical size was found in TD children but not in children with SCTs. This result could be probably explained by the small number of children in this group who could produce babbling utterances. The study leads to identify early signals of delay in the preverbal skills of children with SCTs. Early monitoring of their communicative development could help the clinicians in intervening with well-timed and targeted programmes.
Research Designs and Literature in the Field of Visual Impairment: What Informs Our Practices?
Authors: Sutter Chevonne , Demchak MaryAnn , Grumstrup Brianna , Forsyth Andrea , Grattan Jill
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

This descriptive study identified types of articles published and research designs used in targeted special education journals. Articles in visual impairment (i.e., low vision or blindness) published between 2012 and 2017 were examined to determine what literature informed the field during the 6-year period.

Method:

A total of 4,850 articles from 37 journals were reviewed. Initially, all articles published from 2012 through 2014 in targeted disability journals across categories related to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) were reviewed. Subsequently, articles published from 2015 through 2017 in six key journals in visual impairment and deafblindness were reviewed. Each article in every volume of selected journals in the 6-year period was coded for type, research design, and target population.

Results:

The majority of research designs implemented with IDEA-eligible individuals with visual impairments were quantitative, specifically regression analyses, comparative, and single-case research designs (hereafter, single-case designs). Studies targeting non-IDEA eligible participants nearly doubled those targeting children with visual impairments. Less than one third of studies identified were intervention studies. Single-case designs were the most commonly used designs for intervention studies, and few reported effect size. The overall small number of studies with children with visual impairments indicate an increased need for experimental studies to identify evidence-based practices.

Discussion:

A greater number of empirical than nonempirical articles was identified in visual impairment, possibly indicating increased investigation of practices and interventions. This trend aligns with the current focus on using evidence and data to support practice and policy. Further research should evaluate quality of studies.

Implications for practitioners:

It is important to be familiar with the body of research informing the field of visual impairment to understand the evidence underlying its practices and policies. It is recommended that increased numbers of high-quality intervention studies be conducted to identify evidence-based practices.
Clinical outcomes of single-dose cardioplegia in high-risk coronary bypass
Authors: Gunaydin Serdar , Gunertem Orhan Eren , Babaroglu Seyhan , Kunt Atike Tekeli , McCusker Kevin , Ozisik Kanat
Published: October 2020

Background

Despite the increasing popularity of single-dose cardioplegia techniques in coronary artery bypass grafting, the time window for successful reperfusion remains unclear. This study aimed to compare different cardioplegic techniques based on early and 30-day clinical outcomes via thorough monitoring.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included high-risk patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and receiving 3 different types of cardioplegia between January 2017 and June 2019. Group 1 ( n = 101) had a single dose of del Nido cardioplegia, group 2 ( n = 92) had a single dose of histidine-tryptophane-ketoglutarate, and group 3 ( n = 119) had cold blood cardioplegia. Patients were examined perioperatively by memory loop recording and auto-triggered memory loop recording for 30 days, with documentation of predefined events.

Results

Interleukin-6 and cardiac troponin levels in group 1 were significantly higher than those in groups 2 and 3. The incidence of predefined events as markers of inadequate myocardial protection was significantly higher group 1, with more frequent atrial fibrillation attacks and more hospital readmissions. The readmission rate was 17.6% in group 1, 9% in group 2, and 8% in group 3.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate the long-term efficacy of cardioplegic techniques, which may become more crucial in high-risk patients who genuinely have a chance to benefit from adjunct myocardial protection. Patients given del Nido cardioplegia had a significantly more prominent inflammatory response and higher troponin levels after cardiopulmonary bypass. This group had issues in the longer term with significantly more cardiac events and a higher rehospitalization rate.
How to identify the drivers of patient inter-regional mobility in beveridgean systems? Critical review and assessment matrix for policy design & managerial interventions
Authors: Ricci Alberto , Barzan Elisabetta , Longo Francesco
Published: October 2020

Decentralized, tax-funded health systems like Italian and Spanish ones reveal relevant internal patient flows, raising concerns in terms of equity, budget imbalances, and unexploited economies of scale at the regional and organizational level. However, policymakers lack effective tools to rapidly identify the causes of patient outflows in Beveridgean healthcare systems. We address the gap by conducting a critical review of the drivers of patient mobility. Elaborating on existing knowledge, we propose a concise, versatile assessment matrix to help policymakers in understanding the most relevant causes of mobility. Specifically, we identify three main categories of drivers: insufficient service availability, poor (perceived) quality, and regulatory issues. We include appropriate indicators to identify each driver, or mix of drivers. For each of them, we also propose specific policy and organizational responses. The applicability of the model is proven by an empirical test using the Italian national hospital discharge database for all inter-regional inpatient mobility flows. In addition to adding to previous contributions on mobility drivers by creating a model that informs policymakers’ understanding and actions, the paper provides an innovative approach to patient mobility by proposing a model that, for the first time, primarily focuses on the clinical discipline of the flows.
Forest cover and composition on the Loess Plateau during the Middle to Late-Holocene: Integrating wood charcoal analyses
Authors: Shen Hui , Li Xiaoqiang , Spengler Robert , Zhou Xinying , Zhao Keliang
Published: October 2020

The question of what the ecology communities of the Loess Plateau looked like before the extensive anthropogenic reshaping processes of the late-Holocene has stirred a long debate. A better understanding of these human-induced changes will not only help us understand the extent of paleoeconomic practices, but also inform future conservation actions on this ecologically fragile landscape. This paper presents a systematic study of wood charcoal from a series of archaeological sites, demonstrating that woody plants and woodlands were widely distributed and geographically diverse on the Loess Plateau in response to the East Asian Monsoon. In the Guanzhong Basin, oak ( Quercus spp.) woodlands were associated with a few tropical-subtropical taxa, which changed to oak and pine ( Pinus spp.) mixed forests on the eastern plateau, while on the northern plateau coniferous woodlands were dominant. On the western Loess Plateau, oak and elm ( Ulmus spp.) woodland and spruce ( Picea spp.) forests were widespread. The charcoal results suggest that human impacts on the dominant species might have begun as early as ca. 3500 cal yr BP, with oak replaced by Prunus as the dominant taxon, including many economically significant species, such as peaches ( P. persica) and apricots ( P. armeniaca). Furthermore, the charcoal data show that due to warm and wet climatic conditions in the mid-Holocene, the distribution of tropical-subtropical taxa shifted markedly northwards into the Guanzhong and Tianshui Basins, and the central part of the eastern Loess Plateau, which became characterized by high frequencies of Bamboo.
Landscape change and vegetation history in the city of Lisbon during Roman times and the Early Medieval Period
Authors: Currás Andrés , Costa Ana Maria , Freitas Maria da Conceição , Danielsen Randi , Bugalhão Jacinta
Published: October 2020

Pollen and NPP analysis performed on the sedimentary deposits accumulated in the inter-tidal banks of the Tagus Estuary allow for the reconstruction of vegetation history and landscape changes that occurred in Lisbon from the 1st to the 6th century cal AD. The high chronological resolution of this investigation makes it possible to identify changes in human activities that took place during the Roman period and reveals the extent of land use in the 2nd century cal AD. However, the most considerable landscape transformation of this 600-year period dates back to the late 5th century cal AD, when significant deforestation and increasing human activity, particularly pasturing, spread throughout the territory. This feature bears witness to the outcome of a deep socioeconomic transformation following the disintegration of the Roman administration and sheds light on a poorly known period in this part of Iberia.
Deference and decision-making in science and society: How deference to scientific authority goes beyond confidence in science and scientists to become authoritarianism
Authors: Howell Emily L. , Wirz Christopher D. , Scheufele Dietram A. , Brossard Dominique , Xenos Michael A.
Published: October 2020

Deference to scientific authority theoretically captures the belief that scientists and not publics should make decisions on science in society. Few studies examine deference, however, and none test this central theoretical claim. The result is deference is often conflated with concepts such as trust in scientists and belief in the authority of science. This study examines two claims key to conceptualizing deference: that deference (1) predicts anti-democratic views of decision-making and (2) relates to but is distinct from beliefs of science as authoritative knowledge. Analyzing US nationally representative data, we find deference to scientific authority does predict anti-democratic views, and this is its distinct conceptual value: trust in scientists and belief in science as authoritative knowledge strongly relate to deference, but both predict pro-democratic views, unlike deference. We discuss how these findings highlight deference as vital for understanding perceptions of science and societal decision-making and how we can better develop the concept.
Determination of gel time of prepreg in copper clad laminate industry by near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Liu Qian-Fa , Li Dan , Zeng Yao-De , Huang Wei-Zhuang
Published: October 2020

Gel time of prepreg is an important quality determinant in the manufacturing process of copper clad laminate (CCL). Prepreg consists of a glass fiber reinforcement impregnated to a predetermined level with a resin matrix. In this work, near infrared spectroscopy associated with partial least squares (PLS) regression has been applied to analyse the gel time of prepreg samples in the manufacturing process. A total of 250 prepreg samples were randomly divided into a calibration set and a validation prediction set with a ratio of 4:1. The values of root mean square error of leave-one-out cross-validation (RMSECV) and the coefficient of determination (R2) of the calibration model was 2.95 s and 0.92 respectively, with eight PLS factors used. The results of the paired t-test revealed that there was no significant difference between the NIR method and the reference method. The analytical result showed that, NIR spectroscopy was a rapid, nondestructive, and accurate method for real-time prediction of prepreg quality in the CCL manufacturing process.
Acceptability and Feasibility of an Isometric Resistance Exercise Program for Abdominal Cancer Surgery: An Embedded Qualitative Study
Authors: Hashem Ferhana , Stephensen David , Bates Amanda , Pellatt-Higgins Tracy , Hobbs Ralph (Nobby) Peter , Hopkins Malcolm , Woodward Hazel , Stavropoulou Charitini , Swaine Ian L. , Ali Haythem
Published: October 2020

Although it is recognized in the early stages of cancer recovery that changes in lifestyle including increases in physical activity improves physical function, there are no clear findings whether low versus moderate intensity activity or home or gym exercise offer optimal benefit. Isometric-resistance exercises can be carried out with very little equipment and space and can be performed while patients are bed-bound in hospital or at home. This embedded qualitative study, based in an English hospital trust providing specialist cancer care, was undertaken as a component of a feasibility trial to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of an isometric-resistance exercise program and explore the suitability of functional assessments by drawing from the experiences of abdominal cancer patients following surgery. Telephone interviews were undertaken with 7 participants in the intervention group, and 8 interviews with the usual care group (n = 15). The gender composition consisted of 11 females and 4 males. Participants’ ages ranged from 27 to 84 (M = 60.07, SD = 15.40). Interviews were conducted between August 2017 and May 2018, with audio files digitally recorded and data coded using thematic framework analysis. Our results show that blinding to intervention or usual care was a challenge, participants felt the intervention was safe and suitable aided by the assistance of a research nurse, yet, found the self-completion questionnaire tools hard to complete. Our study provides an insight of trial processes, participants’ adherence and completion of exercise interventions, and informs the design and conduct of larger RCTs based on the experiences of abdominal cancer surgery patients.
Public Support for E-Cigarette-related Policies among a Nationally Representative Sample of US Adults
Authors: Czaplicki Lauren , Simpson Randall , Zhou Yitong , Patel Minal , Cuccia Alison F. , Vallone Donna M. , Schillo Barbara A.
Published: October 2020

Background:

The wide availability of flavored e-cigarettes and broad use of e-cigarettes in public places may contribute to the rapidly increasing rates of use among youth and young adults in the U.S. However, policies at the federal, state and local levels can address these factors.

Objective:

Assess public support for 5 e-cigarette-related policies and evaluate response patterns by demographics, tobacco use, e-cigarette harm perceptions, geographic region, and strength of state-level clean indoor air policies.

Methods:

Data were collected Oct-Dec 2018 from a nationally representative online panel of U.S. adults (n = 3211). We measured support for 5 policies: (1) a ban on the sale flavored e-cigarettes; (2) requiring tobacco products, like e-cigarettes, be kept out of view in stores where adolescents shop; and prohibiting e-cigarette use in (3) all public places; (4) restaurants; and (5) bars. Weighted, adjusted logistic regressions modeled variation in policy support.

Results:

A majority of respondents (63.3%) supported a flavor ban, with no differences in support by smoking status. Most respondents supported keeping tobacco products out of view (78.0%) and prohibiting e-cigarette use in indoor public places (82.9%), restaurants (86.5%), and bars (76.1%). In the adjusted models, current e-cigarette users had significantly lower odds of policy support compared to never users. We observed no differences in support by geographic region or strength of state-level clean indoor air policies.

Conclusion:

Results suggest high levels of public support to regulate e-cigarette flavors, marketing, and use in public places. Targeted messaging may be needed to increase support among current e-cigarette users.
Diagnostic Role of Mean-Platelet Volume in Acute Pulmonary Embolism: A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Febra Cláudia , Macedo Ana
Published: October 2020

Background:

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third most fatal cardiovascular disease. PE is frequently misdiagnosed due to its clinical presentation’s heterogeneity and the inexistence of biomarkers for its immediate diagnosis. Mean platelet volume (MPV) has shown a potential role as a biomarker in acute PE. In this analysis, we aimed to systematically compare the MPV in patients with and without definite diagnosis of PE, in emergency departments.

Methods:

Embase, PubMed and Medline were searched for relevant publications, in English. The main inclusion criteria were studies which compared MPV in patients with acute PEA versus a control group.

Results:

Thirteen studies consisting of a total number of 2428 participants were included. Of the participants included, 1316 were patients with confirmed acute PE, and 1112 were assigned to the control group. MPV was significantly higher in patients with acute PE than in controls (RR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.76 – 0.92; P < .00001). There was a significant heterogeneity in the data.

Conclusions:

This analysis showed higher MPV to be associated with acute PE immediate diagnosis. These data show promise for the use of MPV as a readily available biomarker for the diagnosis of acute PE at the emergency department.
Witnessing Eva Stories: Media witnessing and self-inscription in social media memory
Authors: Henig Lital , Ebbrecht-Hartmann Tobias
Published: October 2020

This study examines the relations between memory, social media experience, and testimony in the Eva Stories Instagram project. By conducting a combined visual and multimodal analysis of the stories, as well as a close analysis of the relations between social media experience and testimony, we claim that Eva Stories establishes a new responsive space for remembering the Holocaust. This space enables users to inscribe themselves into mediated Holocaust memory and to become media witnesses through the co-creation of socially mediated experiences. The self-inscription of the user is made possible by three interrelated modes of media witnessing, which continuously evoke user engagement. These new modes, we argue, indicate a new kind of agency in relation to media witnessing: the ability to testify on one’s own present social media engagement with mediated memory, and become a witness to it.
Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry untargeted metabolomics reveals increased levels of tryptophan indole metabolites in urine of metabolic syndrome patients
Authors: Esperanza Moises Guerrero , Wrobel Katarzyna , Ojeda Armando Gomez , Garay-Sevilla Ma Eugenia , Escobosa Alma Rosa Corrales , Barrientos Eunice Yanez , Wrobel Kazimierz
Published: October 2020

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multifactor condition predisposing for diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and other degenerative disorders. Although several diagnostic criteria have been established, none of them is specific and there is a call for better pathophysiological explanation of MetS and for the discovery of molecular biomarkers. Phenotype characterization at metabolome level might be useful for both purposes. To this end, our aim was to perform comparative untargeted metabolomics of urines from MetS patients and from the control group. The study participants included 52 diagnosticated and 50 healthy individuals from Leon city in central Mexico; 23 anthropometric and clinical parameters were measured and submitted to Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The obtained PCA model allowed us for selection of 11 MetS patients and 13 control subjects, correspondingly representative for each of the two groups (clearly separated in PCA). The first morning urines from these subjects were ambulatory collected and, after methanol extraction and acidification, were submitted to capillary liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). The obtained data were analyzed on MetaboScape® platform (Bruker Daltonics). Specifically, t-test applied to LC-HRMS data revealed several ions presenting at least 3-fold higher intensities in MetS with respect to the control samples (p < 0.05). Data analysis and complementary experiments yielded the identification of the following metabolites: indole-3-acetic acid, indole-3-acetic acid-O-glucuronide, N-(indol-3-ylacetyl) glutamine, indole-3-carbaldehyde and hydroxyhexanoycarnitine. Additionally, indole-3-carboxylic acid was annotated with 2.13-fold higher abundance in MetS patients. To assess the contribution of individual metabolites in the difference between two groups of subjects, partial least square discriminant analysis was performed for LC-HRMS data and the obtained values of variable importance in projection (VIP), confirmed the association of six above mentioned compounds with MetS. Overall, this study provides direct evidence on the disturbed catabolism of tryptophan in metabolic syndrome.
A Self-Determination Theory Perspective on Transfer of Leadership Training: The Role of Leader Motivation
Authors: Tafvelin Susanne , Stenling Andreas
Published: October 2020

The purpose of the present research was to investigate how leaders’ different types of pretraining motivation may influence transfer of leadership training. Drawing on self-determination theory, we examined the role of autonomous and controlled motivation for short- and long-term transfer in terms of employee-rated improvements of leaders’ need support. Data were collected in conjunction with a leadership training program that was aimed at increasing need support among municipality leaders ( n = 20 leaders and their n = 323 employees), and surveys were sent to leaders and employees before training, posttraining, and 4 months after training. Bayesian multilevel modeling suggests that autonomous (Estimate = 0.17, 95% confidence interval [CI: 0.030, 0.329]) and controlled (Estimate = 0.08, 95% CI [0.013, 0.150]) premotivation among leaders are related to short-term improvements in need support. Although neither type of motivation had a credible long-term effect on transfer 4 months after the training, the 95% credibility interval indicate that the effect of autonomous motivation (Estimate = 0.13, 95% CI [−0.004, 0.269]) most likely is positive. Our study demonstrates the usefulness of using a theory-based multidimensional perspective on predictors of training transfer and on adding a temporal perceptive on their effects. Our study also points toward the importance of not only fostering autonomous motivation at work but recognizing the potential in controlled motivation.
Where and how to learn: The interactive benefits of contextual variation, restudying, and retrieval practice for learning
Authors: Imundo Megan N , Pan Steven C , Bjork Elizabeth Ligon , Bjork Robert A
Published: October 2020

Students are often advised to do all of their studying in one good place, but restudying to-be-learned material in a new context can enhance subsequent recall. We examined whether there are similar benefits for testing. In Experiment 1 ( n = 106), participants studied a 36-word list and 48 hr later—when back in the same or a new context—either restudied or recalled the list without feedback. After another 48 hr, all participants free-recalled the list in a new context. Experiment 2 ( n = 203) differed by having the testing-condition participants restudy the list before being tested. Across both experiments, testing in a new context reduced recall, which carried over to the final test, whereas restudying in a new context did not impair (and in Experiment 2, significantly enhanced) recall. These findings reveal critical interactions between contextual-variation and retrieval-practice effects, which we interpret as consistent with a distribution-of-memory-strengths framework.
Insulin treatment for diabetes
Authors: Jabeen Mah
Published: October 2020

The first use of insulin in 1922 began a new era in the management and survival of patients with type 1 diabetes. Before 1922, patients with this condition were placed on a starvation diet and survived only a few months. Nearly a century later, insulin remains the dominant treatment for type 1 diabetes, is used in gestational diabetes and increasingly in type 2 diabetes. This article focuses on insulin treatment for adult diabetic patients in general practice. It will explore the effect of insulin and the role it has in diabetes, the preparations available, recommended regimens and some challenges with insulin treatment.
States of Mind With Respect to Adult Attachment and Reflective Functioning in a Sample of Men Detained for Stalking: Evaluation and Clinical Implications
Authors: Civilotti Cristina , Sciascia Chiara , Zaccagnino Maria , Varetto Antonella , Acquadro Maran Daniela
Published: October 2020

The efficacy of treatment for stalkers might depend on identifying peculiarities in the life stories of members of this population and their specific needs. We interviewed 14 Italian male stalkers between 27 and 78 years old ( M = 44.5 years) detained in two northwest Italian correctional facilities. We aimed to investigate two main aspects: First, we evaluated the subjects’ states of mind (SoMs) with respect to early attachment using the Adult Attachment Interview. Second, we assessed the possible recurrence of narrative clusters between the narratives of these offenders, whom we also interviewed about their persecutory acts, using the Index Offense Interview. The results indicated that the vast majority of the stalkers in our sample had a dismissing SoM with respect to their early attachment, as well as many unresolved traumas. Furthermore, by comparing their narratives, we outlined six narrative themes: (a) the perception of rejection as a main motivational factor, (b) the representation of the self as right and as a victim of others’ behaviors, (c) a lack of impulse control, (d) the idealization of attachment figures, (e) intense separation anxiety, and (f) a personal theory about stalking. Given this population’s high recurrence rates following detention, the study of which adult attachment representations are linked with the stalking phenomenon and which critical themes are present in stalkers’ narratives may improve clinical interventions for this specific population.
Clinical results of a short stem with flat tapered wedge design in primary total hip arthroplasty for hip dysplasia in Asians
Authors: Hayama Tetsuo , Otani Takuya , Fujii Hideki , Kawaguchi Yasuhiko , Abe Toshiomi , Takahashi Motoi , Saito Mitsuru
Published: October 2020

Background:

Cementless femoral reconstruction is challenging in hip dysplasia due to deformity of the proximal femur causing insufficient stem fixation and/or inadequate neck anteversion. Strategies to address these problems include the use of a modular stem or a distal fixation stem, but both stems have some characteristic disadvantages.

Methods:

We studied the postoperative clinical outcomes in primary total hip arthroplasty in 257 hips using the flat tapered wedge short femoral stem for hip dysplasia in an Asian population (postoperative follow-up period: 2 years to 6 years and 11 months; mean 4 years and 5 months). We took advantage of the characteristic of high flexibility in stem placement because of its low volume, positioning it while performing some varus/valgus and rotational alignment adjustments.

Results:

Favorable clinical functional outcomes were obtained, including the radiographic outcome of biological fixation achieved in all stems. Regarding complications, there was no case of split fracture of the femoral calcar region during stem insertion, and the rate of postoperative dislocation was also low at 0.4% (1 case). In the pre- and postoperative computed tomography measurements, the variability in stem anteversion postoperatively was significantly reduced compared to preoperative anatomical anteversion.

Conclusion:

This flat-shaped short low-volume stem likely has high flexibility in positioning in cases of hip dysplasia and can be easily positioned to avoid fractures while still achieving secure fixation.
Comparison of Structural Subscapularis Integrity After Latarjet Procedure Versus Iliac Crest Bone Graft Transfer
Authors: Siegert Paul , Plachel Fabian , Akgün Doruk , Baur Alexander D.J. , Schulz Eva , Auffarth Alexander , Tauber Mark , Moroder Philipp
Published: October 2020

Background:

Although clinical outcome scores are comparable after coracoid transfer procedure (Latarjet) and iliac crest bone graft transfer (ICBGT) for anterior shoulder instability with glenoid bone loss, a significant decrease in internal rotation capacity has been reported for the Latarjet procedure.

Hypothesis:

The subscapularis (SSC) musculotendinous integrity will be less compromised by ICBGT than by the Latarjet procedure.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed pre- and postoperative computed tomography (CT) scans at short-term follow-up of 52 patients (26 Latarjet, 26 ICBGT) previously assessed in a prospective randomized controlled trial. Measurements included the preoperative glenoid defect area and graft area protruding the glenoid rim at follow-up and tendon thickness assessed through SSC and infraspinatus (ISP) ratios. Fatty muscle infiltration was graded according to Goutallier, quantified with muscle attenuation in Hounsfield units, and additionally calculated as percentages. We measured 3 angles to describe rerouting of the SSC musculotendinous unit around the bone grafts.

Results:

SSC fatty muscle infiltration was 2.0% ± 2.2% in the Latarjet group versus 2.4% ± 2.2% in ICBGT ( P = .546) preoperatively and showed significantly higher values in the Latarjet group at follow-up (5.3% ± 4.5% vs 2.3% ± 1.7%; P = .001). In total, 4 patients (15.4%) in the Latarjet group showed a progression from grade 0 to grade 1 at follow-up, whereas no changes in the ICBGT group were noted. The measured rerouting angle of the SSC muscle was significantly increased in the Latarjet group (11.8° ± 2.1°) compared with ICBGT (7.5° ± 1.3°; P < .001) at follow-up, with a significant positive correlation between this angle and fatty muscle infiltration ( R = 0.447; P = .008). Ratios of SSC/ISP tendon thickness were 1.03 ± 0.3 in the Latarjet group versus 0.97 ± 0.3 ( P = .383) in ICBGT preoperatively and showed significantly lower ratios in the Latarjet group (0.7 ± 0.3 vs 1.0 ± 0.2; P < .001) at follow-up.

Conclusion:

Although clinical outcome scores after anterior shoulder stabilization with a Latarjet procedure and ICBGT are comparable, this study shows that the described decline in internal rotation capacity after Latarjet procedure has a radiographic structural correlate in terms of marked thinning and rerouting of the SSC tendon as well as slight fatty degeneration of the muscle.
Advancing Allyship Through Anti-Oppression Workshops for Public Health Students: A Mixed Methods Pilot Evaluation
Authors: Djulus Gifty , Sheikhan Natasha Y. , Nawaz Emin , Burley Joseph , Thomas-Jacques Tyla , Naik Harsh , Warsame Kahiye , Jamil Marium , Banerjee Ananya
Published: October 2020

This pilot mixed methods evaluation describes the impact of an anti-oppression workshop on allyship development among a group of public health graduate students. After completing a mandatory anti-oppression workshop, a survey including closed- and open-ended questions was administered to 41 public health students specializing in health promotion. Closed-ended questions gathered basic demographic data and Likert-type scale responses to assess changes in participant knowledge, awareness, and attitudes surrounding anti-oppression concepts discussed during the workshop, while open-ended questions asked respondents to reflect on how such changes might influence their development as allies. A response rate of 65.85% (27 respondents) was achieved. The majority of the study group were between the ages of 20 and 24 years (74.07%), self-identified as straight (77.8%), and self-identified as non-White (77.8%), while almost the entire group identified as female (92.59%). Five key themes emerged from a directed content analysis of qualitative data, identifying the importance of anti-oppression workshops for allyship development: conducive environments, positionality, knowledge, active listening and learning, and advocacy. These themes were used to construct a mixed methods joint display for comparative interpretation of quantitative and qualitative data. Mixed methods analysis revealed that anti-oppression workshops can promote allyship development by increasing knowledge of key terms and concepts associated with anti-oppression and facilitating critical reflections on power, privilege, and social location. Our findings demonstrate a profound need for ongoing anti-oppression training among future public health students and professionals.
Free Latissimus Dorsi Flap With Femoral Artery End-to-Side Anastomosis for Perineal Reconstruction Following Fournier’s Gangrene
Authors: Duncan Anna , Byun Stephanie , Paletz Justin
Published: October 2020

Fournier’s gangrene is a necrotizing infection of the soft tissue structures of the perineum that can extend quickly, requiring aggressive and repeated surgical debridement. This can result in extensive tissue loss and functional impairment, creating reconstructive challenges for plastic surgeons. We present a case of Fournier’s gangrene which resulted in complete loss of the pelvic floor musculature and functional loss of the urinary and fecal outlets. Given the extent of the defect and involvement of areas that would traditionally be used as donor site for local and regional flaps, reconstruction was sought with a free latissimus dorsi flap in combination with split-thickness skin grafting following serial debridement and negative pressure wound therapy. The patient survived and made a satisfactory recovery.
REW-ISA: unveiling local functional blocks in epi-transcriptome profiling data via an RNA expression-weighted iterative signature algorithm
Authors: Zhang Lin , Chen Shutao , Zhu Jingyi , Meng Jia , Liu Hui
Published: October 2020

Background

Recent studies have shown that N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a critical role in numbers of biological processes and complex human diseases. However, the regulatory mechanisms of most methylation sites remain uncharted. Thus, in-depth study of the epi-transcriptomic patterns of m6A may provide insights into its complex functional and regulatory mechanisms.

Results

Due to the high economic and time cost of wet experimental methods, revealing methylation patterns through computational models has become a more preferable way, and drawn more and more attention. Considering the theoretical basics and applications of conventional clustering methods, an RNA Expression Weighted Iterative Signature Algorithm (REW-ISA) is proposed to find potential local functional blocks (LFBs) based on MeRIP-Seq data, where sites are hyper-methylated or hypo-methylated simultaneously across the specific conditions. REW-ISA adopts RNA expression levels of each site as weights to make sites of lower expression level less significant. It starts from random sets of sites, then follows iterative search strategies by thresholds of rows and columns to find the LFBs in m6A methylation profile. Its application on MeRIP-Seq data of 69,446 methylation sites under 32 experimental conditions unveiled 6 LFBs, which achieve higher enrichment scores than ISA. Pathway analysis and enzyme specificity test showed that sites remained in LFBs are highly relevant to the m6A methyltransferase, such as METTL3, METTL14, WTAP and KIAA1429. Further detailed analyses for each LFB even showed that some LFBs are condition-specific, indicating that methylation profiles of some specific sites may be condition relevant.

Conclusions

REW-ISA finds potential local functional patterns presented in m6A profiles, where sites are co-methylated under specific conditions.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) alleviates salt damage in tomato by modulating Na+ uptake, the GAD gene, amino acid synthesis and reactive oxygen species metabolism
Authors: Wu Xiaolei , Jia Qiuying , Ji Shengxin , Gong Binbin , Li Jingrui , Lü Guiyun , Gao Hongbo
Published: October 2020

Background

Salt stress is a serious abiotic stress that caused crop growth inhibition and yield decline. Previous studies have reported on the the synthesis of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and its relationship with plant resistance under various abiotic stress. However, the relationship between exogenous GABA alleviating plant salt stress damage and ion flux, amino acid synthesis, and key enzyme expression remains largely unclear. We investigated plant growth, Na+ transportation and accumulation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism and evaluated the effect of GABA on amino acids, especially SlGADs gene expression and the endogenous GABA content of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedlings treated with or without 5 mmol·L− 1 GABA under 175 mmol·L− 1 NaCl stress.

Results

Exogenous application of GABA significantly reduced the salt damage index and increased plant height, chlorophyll content and the dry and fresh weights of tomato plants exposed to NaCl stress. GABA significantly reduced Na+ accumulation in leaves and roots by preventing Na+ influx in roots and transportation to leaves. The transcriptional expression of SlGAD1–3 genes were induced by NaCl stress especially with GABA application. Among them, SlGAD1 expression was the most sensitive and contributed the most to the increase in glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) activity induced by NaCl and GABA application; Exogenous GABA increased GAD activity and amino acid contents in tomato leaves compared with the levels under NaCl stress alone, especially the levels of endogenous GABA, proline, glutamate and eight other amino acids. These results indicated that SlGADs transcriptional expression played an important role in tomato plant resistance to NaCl stress with GABA application by enhancing GAD activity and amino acid contents. GABA significantly alleviated the active oxygen-related injury of leaves under NaCl stress by increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes and decreasing the contents of active oxygen species and malondialdehyde.

Conclusion

Exogenous GABA had a positive effect on the resistance of tomato seedlings to salt stress, which was closely associated with reducing Na+ flux from root to leaves, increasing amino acid content and strengthening antioxidant metabolism. Endogenous GABA content was induced by salt and exogenous GABA at both the transcriptional and metabolic levels.