bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radio as a Tool for National Development
Authors: Ajisafe Ibikunle Olayiwola
Published: February 2021

The significant role radio plays in the development of any nation can never be overemphasized, most especially community radio. The general opinion about community radio is favorable; it has been identified as a powerful medium capable of promoting rapid change among various communities across the globe. Community radio is a cost-effective, non-formal learning medium, which can be used to reach many hitherto unreached and uneducated across vast geographic distances, communities in the most remote and isolated regions. CR has also been identified as vital in the delivery of vital developmental information to all members of the community irrespective of age, gender, or beliefs. Uninformed individuals are subjected to the tyranny of those who are informed because, without a voice, they cannot participate in the management of their land, their region, and their country, until they can understand precisely what the issues are and how they could contribute their quota to the attainment of the set goals in their environment. The transition of the "voiceless" to alert and active communities, most especially as one-health informed persons begins with community enlightenment of the benefits of both sustainable development goals and the one health policy. Community radio is identified in this work as vital to disseminating information on health and SDGs education, most especially in African communities where oral customs and indigenous languages are still distinct signatures. The work will examine the importance of community radio which its credo is information and education and the valuable contribution it can give to the attainment of sustainable development goals and its vital place in the promotion of animal-human health in African hard-to-reach communities. It will also serve as a proposal to the government on the need to implement community radio considering its impacts on the health and wellbeing of rural people in other African countries where it is in use.
Problems Encountered during In vitro Culture Establishment in Terminalia arjuna
Authors: Choudhary Meena , Arya Inder Dev , Arya Sarita
Published: February 2021

The main aim of present study was to overcome the problems associated with the in vitro culture initiation in Terminalia arjuna. The micropropagation of tree species is not easy as shrubs and herbs. Many problems encountered from explant collection to in vitro culture establishment. The problems that have been occurred during T. arjuna micropropagation were culture contamination, phenolic exudation, bud growth inhibition, shoots yellowing and leaf fall. All these problems have been solved by applying certain treatments prior to explant collection and inoculation. The mother tree was lopped in November months (six months prior to explant collection) to remove any inhibitory substance and release bud growth. Different sterilizing agents were used to minimize the bacterial and fungal contamination. Some modification in culture media (use of different concentration of NH4NO3 and KNO3 salts and adenine sulphate) was done. Surface sterilization of nodal explants collected from lopped branches with 0.1% HgCl2 for 8 min., treatment with chilled antioxidant solution (Ascorbic acid, Citric acid and PVP) and half strength of NH4NO3 and KNO3 salts of MS medium supported 100% bud break response with proliferation of green and healthy in vitro shoots. Removing these hurdles already in the initial stage of micropropagation is very important and maximize mass in vitro propagation of this medicinally important Arjun tree.
Structural Characteristics of Natural Limestone Forests in Cat Ba Biosphere Reserves, Vietnam
Authors: Long Tran Hai , Sangjun I. M. , Hung Trieu Thai , Li Qiwen , Khuong Ninh Viet , Tuan Nguyen Van , Quy Tran Hoang , Bon Trinh Ngoc , Nguyen Tran Cao , Hang Le Thi Thu , Do Tran Van
Published: February 2021

An ecological understanding of natural forests after anthropogenic intervention is important for sustainable forest management. This study analyzed the overstory characteristics (species composition, growth, and diameter distribution) and regeneration (species richness, density, and height distribution) in natural limestone forests in Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve, Vietnam. Data were collected in nine study plots established in selective-logged (SLF), clear-cut (CCF), and unlogged (UF) forests. Results indicated that the overstory characteristics of SLF and CCF were lower than that of UF (species richness was 33 in UF, 20 in SLF, and 16 in CCF; DBH was 20.6 ±13.7 cm in UF, 16.9 ±9.7 cm in SLF, and 10.5 ±3.8 cm in CCF; Basal area was 38.2 m2 ha-1 in UF, 24.0 m2 ha-1 in SLF, and 11.4 m2 ha-1 in CCF). For regeneration, species richness also varied from UF (25) to SLF (13) and CCF (5), while seedling density reversely increased. We concluded that a 20-year restoration was insufficient for artificially disturbed forests to recover their ecological functions, regardless of logging intensities and techniques applied.
Mental Sub-Normality: Mainstreaming Children with Disabilities. The Challenges of the Counseling Profession
Authors: Ekeng Effiom, Bassey , Esuabana Stella Bassey
Published: February 2021

This paper takes a critical look at mental sub normality, mainstreaming children with disabilities and the challenges of the counselling profession. Its use children that need special education, the blind, epileptic, partial deaf. Since they have rein-force stigmation. Inclusive approach, re-affirmation, care and integration, confidence building institutionalized in school and family life. Using guidance and counselling as the best approach to adjust the different maladaptive behavior of children in school. This works seem to view sub Normality as classify within range although adequacy of social adaptation is taken into account. As it may include brighter even cluster student, this children may be term educational sub normal. They may have weak intellectual capacity, some educational authorities have special school for them. But else where they are accumulated in normal school example Nigerian.

Sub mentality suffer discouragement, contempt and neglect from early age. Emotionally and social growth they cannot respond as adequately to the environment as can normal children, they are likely to feel isolated and to be excluded from social activities from early childhood. Therefore, counsellor must experience sub normality by getting involve and clarify their feeling towards children with disabilities.
Prevalence and Antibiogram of Salmonella Species Isolated from Snail (Archachatina marginata) Sold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Daminabo V. , Ogbonna D. N. , Odu N. N. , Amadi L. O.
Published: February 2021

Increase in microbial population especially Salmonella species in food due to improper handling, storage and exposure to contaminants can raise public health concerns when consumed without adequate processing. This study evaluates the prevalence and antibiogram of Salmonella species associated with the giant land Snail (Archachatina marginata) sold in markets around Port Harcourt metropolis. A total number of seventy two (72) samples of land snail were collected from three markets; Creek Road, Mile one and Rumuokoro. The samples were labelled and transported in an ice packed coolers to the laboratory for analyses. Standard microbiological protocols were employed to determine the microbial load and species of the various parts (intestine, meat and fluid) of the snail samples after shucking. Antibiotics sensitivity profile testing of the isolated and identified Salmonella species were carried out as recommended by Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) and statistical analyses using one way ANOVA and all pairs Turkey-Kramer. Results from the study showed that the highest total heterotrophic bacteria count (THBC) of 8.6x106CFU/g was obtained in the snail intestine sourced from Creek road market while THBCs  of 8.2x106 CFU/g and 7.3x106 CFU/g were from Mile one and Rumuokoro markets respectively. THBCs of meat from the markets ranged from 4.3-5.4x106 CFU/g and 3.7-4.9x106CFU/ml in fluid with Rumuokoro having the least occurrence respectively. Mean Salmonella counts (MSCs) ranged from 0.4-3.6 x103 CFU/g, with least count obtained from Rumuokoro and Mile 1 markets. Similarly, least MSCs in fluid and intestine were obtained from Rumuokoro and Mile 1 whereas Creek road Market had the highest respectively. Three species of Salmonella; S. arizonae, S. gallinarum and S. typhi were predominant in addition to other species such as Vibrio spp,, Bacillus spp., Staphylococcus spp., Shigella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Enterobacter spp., E. coli, Micrococcus spp., Acinetobacter spp., Klebsiella spp. and Listeria spp identified using both conventional and molecular method. Antibiogram profile revealed that all the identified Salmonella species were susceptible to Ofloxacin and Ciprofloxacin but strongly resistance to Cetazidime and Gentamicin. The diversity and elevated microbial load observed from this study calls for caution in handling and processing of snails since most of these bacteria may become aetiologic agents of several food-borne diseases and other pathological conditions. As a necessity, good quality control measures and proper chemotherapy should be administered to patients with signs and symptoms of food borne illness emanating from consumption of snail.
Platelet Indices in Uterine Leiomyoma Compared with other Major Gynecological Diseases
Authors: Covali Roxana , Socolov Demetra , Pavaleanu Ioana , Carauleanu Alexandru , Socolov Razvan
Published: February 2021

Aims: The aim of this study was to determine whether platelet indices are of value when diagnosing uterine leiomyomas.

Study Design: Prospective study.

Place and Duration of Study: Elena Doamna Obstetrics and Gynecology University Hospital, Iasi, Romania, between January 2017 and December 2017.

Methodology: In this study 98 patients were selected from 140 consecutive screened patients and operated upon; 53 of the operated-on patients had uterine leiomyoma (Group 1) and 45 had severe non-leiomyoma gynecological disease (Group 2). Complete blood count, just before the intervention was studied.

Results: The RDW-CV, PLT and PCT values were significantly higher (P = .017, P = .05, P = .001, respectively) in leiomyoma patients, whereas WBC, RBC, MPV, PDW, P-LCR, NLR, PLR were not significantly different between the 2 groups. The inflammatory indices WBC, NLR and PLR were not significantly higher in leiomyoma patients compared with non-leiomyoma patients, despite the fact that leiomyoma also has an inflammatory cause. Although leiomyomas were accompanied                  by acute or chronic blood loss, only RDW-CV was significantly higher (P = .017) in                        leiomyoma patients, whereas HCT and RBC values were not significantly different between the 2 groups.

Conclusion: The RDW-CV, PLT and PCT values were significantly higher in leiomyoma patients, whereas WBC, RBC, MPV, PDW, P-LCR, NLR, PLR were not significantly different. Still, the specificity of RDW-CV, PLT and PCT was not high enough to allow using them as diagnostic tools for leiomyoma.
Into the Unknown-exploring a Rare BRAF K601E Mutation in a Rectal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Karnik Nupur , Ankolkar Mandar , Gogte Prachi , Ramadwar Mukta , Ostwal Vikas , Shetty Omshree
Published: February 2021

Aim: v-Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (BRAF) gene mutations are broadly divided as BRAF V600E and BRAF non-V600E. These groups exhibit differences in the clinical, histological, molecular and therapeutic mechanisms.

Case Presentation and Discussion: The case described is of a middle aged female with an aggressive rectal adenocarcinoma diagnosed on biopsy and immunohistochemistry. A rare BRAF non-V600E mutation at codon 601, K601E was detected. This mutation has been described in very few cases of colonic adenocarcinoma. The tumor showed extensive local and peritoneal disease with lung metastasis at presentation and progression on the primary line of chemotherapy. The aggressive predisposition of the tumor was contrary to reports suggesting non-V600E tumors to connote a better prognosis.

Conclusion: Active reporting of non-V600E BRAF variants in colorectal adenocarcinoma is essential in order to create a robust database which will help in assessing a biological behavior of these tumors and explore the role of targeted therapy.
Role of Hybrid Interventions in Management of Critical Lower Limb Ischemia
Authors: Zekilah Samy R. , Kamhawy Adel H. , Hassan Hassan A. , El-heniedy Mohamed A. , Ismael Ahmed M.
Published: February 2021

Aims: To evaluate safety and efficacy of the hybrid technique in revascularization of multilevel lower limb arterial occlusive disease in patients with critical lower limb ischemia.

Study Design: A prospective non comparative interventional study.

Place and Duration of Study: It was conducted between February 2017 and June 2019 in the Department of Vascular Surgery, Tanta University hospital.

Methodology: The study included 23 patients were treated with hybrid intervention techniques, and data were collected prospectively. Detailed history was taken and clinical examination was done for every patient along with routine laboratory investigations and radiological work up like duplex scanning with or without CT angiography. All patients were undergone hybrid interventions in an operating room with imaging facilities (mobile c-arm device) where both surgical and endovascular interventions were done simultaneously.

Results: Twenty three patients were treated for unilateral critical lower limb ischemia using single session elective hybrid intervention. The patients age ranged from 46 to 76 (mean 62.6) with 19 males. 8 patients (34.8%) presented with ischemic rest pain and the remainder (65.2%) presented with tissue loss (ischemic ulcer or gangrene). most common inflow procedure was femoro-popliteal supragenicular bypass, and the commonest outflow procedure was tibial angioplasty. Technical success was achieved in 22 patients. Mean ABI was improved from 0.49 preoperatively to 0.84 in early post-operative measurements. Out of 23 limbs treated there were 20 limbs saved from amputation (87% limb salvage rate). We had three mortalities from other co-morbidities and four minor complications treated conservatively and resolved.

Conclusion: Hybrid interventions were proved to be reasonable, effective and safe option for treatment of critical lower limb ischemia.
Optimizing the Tensile Strength of Polystyrene Lightweight Concrete: A Panacea for Sustainable Housing Development in Developing Countries
Authors: Ubi S. E.
Published: February 2021

The use of polystyrene beads in concrete applications has been limited due to its perceived low strength properties. Tensile strength test is an important test that determines the vulnerability of concrete to tensile cracking due to the weight of the structural load. Water, sand, coarse aggregates, expanded polystyrene beads, and ordinary Portland cement are the materials used for this study. All the materials were batched according to their weight, except for polystyrene and coarse aggregates which were batched in volume after mixing them together. The polystyrene partial replacement level was considered at 12% of the coarse aggregate volume. The model equation adopted for this study was based on Scheffe’s {4, 2} simplex lattice design for both Pseudo component and component proportional models. The actual model was developed from the 28th day test result. The Mathlab and Minitab 16 software were used in this study to generate the actual mix ratios. The results obtained showed that both Pseudo component and component proportional models both produced an average split tensile strength of about 5.10N/mm2. This implied that the results of this study produced a split tensile strength result that varied between 18% - 19% of its compressive strength result. This showed that the materials and the mix ratios optimized in this study are suitable as building blocks for residential low rising buildings and as partition slaps for high rising buildings. The lightweight property makes it highly suitable for large scale application in high rising structures as internal partition slaps only.
Research on the Protection of Labor Rights and Benefits of Taiwanese Working Abroad ─Case Study of Working in the Philippines
Authors: Wu Chi-Hsin , Tsai Shang-Lin
Published: February 2021

Under the influence of rapid economic development and policy, the tendency of Taiwanese to go overseas for employment has gradually increased. However, in the face of limited foreign legal protection and the inability to extend the application of relevant domestic labor laws, there is currently a lack of protection for nationals working overseas; on the contrary, the Philippines, a major labor force going abroad adjacent to Taiwan (ROC), has plans for regulations, insurance systems, and care after returning to the country. It can be said that the protection of the rights and benefits of overseas workers is relatively sound. This paper reviews the literature and relevant laws and regulations, and cooperates with in-depth interviews to understand the labor rights issues that Taiwanese may face in overseas employment, and compare the differences in the systems of the two countries. We look forward to identifying the experience and methods that Taiwan (ROC) can use as a reference, and putting forward suggestions for policy and system improvements.
Emotional Freedom Techniques—How to Make It Mainstream; a Thematic Analysis of Practitioners’ Views
Authors: Mitchell Janine , Chatzidamianos Gerasimos ,   Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
Published: February 2021

Background Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is proposed as an effective therapy for the treatment of common mental health problems. It has, however, been met with criticism and is not presently considered a mainstream treatment option for conditions such as anxiety or trauma. Conversely, both cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) have achieved recognition in advancing into mainstream status, yet EFT is still perceived as an alternative treatment option despite evidence of effectiveness, in more than 100 clinical trials and 40 research reviews and meta-analyses. Aims: By examining the views of trained practitioners, this project aimed to explore the barriers and the facilitators to EFT becoming a mainstream treatment option in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for common mental health problems. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted (N=12) exploring views of EFT practitioners. Transcripts were then subjected to thematic analysis. Results: Analysis of participants’ views resulted in three themes: (1) research as an asset and a challenge, (2) public perceptions of EFT as a therapeutic modality, and (3) EFT training standards. These themes are perceived as interlinked in the process of EFT becoming mainstream. Findings from this study indicate the requirement of further research evidence that is more widely disseminated to enable increased awareness to the public and those within the medical profession of EFT as a potentially beneficial adjunct intervention. Importantly, training for EFT therapists needs to be improved and standardized. Implications: Based on the results, a series of recommendations are discussed that aim to address the barriers identified.
Simulation, optimization, and economic analysis of process to obtain esters from fatty acids
Authors: Margarida Bruna R. , Flores Luana I. , Hamerski Fabiane , Voll Fernando A. P. , L. Luz Luiz F.
Published: February 2021

Waste oils are a very promising raw material in the biodiesel industry, which is why great efforts have focused on the removal of the free fatty acids (FFAs) present in this source, mainly through the esterification reaction. Many studies have evaluated the influence of different variables on the reaction conversion, such as temperature, catalyst concentration, and alcohol/oil ratio. However, it is still necessary to verify how the esterification is affected by higher water concentration. In this study, different acid‐catalyzed esterification reaction conditions with distinct water concentrations were tested experimentally, and a new rate expression was proposed. This newly obtained reaction kinetics was then used to undertake a complete analysis of the biodiesel production process from waste oil, evaluating the influence of higher water concentrations in the esterification, and including different optimizations and an economic evaluation. Concerning some of the process modifications, it was verified that the inclusion of three energy‐saving heat exchangers reduced utility costs by 40%. In contrast, the inclusion of an ethanol‐recycling distillation column reduced raw material costs by 40%. Different settings were also tested, varying the feed composition and the esterification reaction time and conditions, resulting in a payback period of less than 3 years in any evaluated scenario. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Antimicrobial Dosing in Specific Populations and Novel Clinical Methodologies: Kidney Function
Authors: Pai Manjunath P.
Published: February 2021

Kidney function is a common parameter used to define antimicrobial drug dosage and frequency of administration. Several methods exist to measure kidney function but for pragmatic reasons rely on estimated kidney function equations based on the endogenous biomarker serum creatinine and common clinical variables. Current regulatory guidance on the design of studies in patients with abnormal kidney function in the United States also recommend consideration of estimated kidney function for this reason. Over the past few decades, alternate endogenous biomarkers, administration of exogenous biomarkers for noninvasive measurement, use of probe substrates to characterize individual kidney drug clearance pathways, modifications to conventional equations to account for time‐varying clearance, and improved clinical trial modeling and simulation to factor in these uncertainties have occurred. Furthermore, major changes to kidney replacement therapy delivery in the outpatient, inpatient, and at‐home setting are occurring. Antimicrobial drug dose adjustment in this diverse population is complex and in a state of flux due to technical innovations. Over‐reliance on kidney function estimates to guide drug dosing in patients with infectious diseases can bias underdosing especially among the acutely ill. A holistic approach to drug dose adjustment in patients with abnormal kidney function is necessary to optimize clinical outcomes.
How Semiphysiological Population Pharmacokinetic Modeling Incorporating Active Hepatic Uptake Supports Phase II Dose Selection of RO7049389, A Novel Anti–Hepatitis B Virus Drug
Authors: Cosson Valérie , Feng Sheng , Jaminion Felix , Lemenuel‐Diot Annabelle , Parrott Neil , Paehler Axel , Bo Qingyan , Jin Yuyan
Published: February 2021

The pharmacokinetics (PK) of RO7049389, a new hepatitis B virus (HBV) core protein allosteric modulator of class I, and of its active metabolite M5 were studied in fasted and fed conditions after single and multiple once‐a‐day and twice‐a‐day doses in healthy subjects and patients with HBV. The nonlinearity of the pharmacokinetics, the large variability, the small sample size per dose arms, the higher plasma exposure in Asians, and the heterogeneity in patient baseline characteristics seen in phase I studies made the ethnic sensitivity assessment and the selection of the recommended phase II dose difficult. A population PK model, simultaneously modeling RO7049389 and M5, was developed to characterize the complex PK, quantify ethnicity (i.e., Asian vs. non‐Asian) and gender effects on the PK of RO7049389 and M5, and infer the quantity of RO7049389 in liver relative to plasma. Exposures in the liver are of particular importance for dose selection since the liver is the site of action of the compound. The model described and reproduced the population PK profiles as well as the between‐subject variability of RO7049389 and its metabolite. It could show that the PK is similar between healthy subjects and in HBV patients, once the ethnicity and gender effects are accounted for. The model predicts that, despite a large difference in the plasma exposure of RO7049389 between Asians and non‐Asians, the exposure in the liver is comparable, allowing the use of the same dose to treat Asian and non‐Asian patients. This model provides a valuable basis to develop this new anti‐HBV drug and to define optimal dosing.
Reconciling the object and spatial processing views of the perirhinal cortex through task‐relevant unitization
Authors: Fiorilli Julien , Bos Jeroen J. , Grande Xenia , Lim Judith , Düzel Emrah , Pennartz Cyriel M. A.
Published: February 2021

The perirhinal cortex is situated on the border between sensory association cortex and the hippocampal formation. It serves an important function as a transition area between the sensory neocortex and the medial temporal lobe. While the perirhinal cortex has traditionally been associated with object coding and the “what” pathway of the temporal lobe, current evidence suggests a broader function of the perirhinal cortex in solving feature ambiguity and processing complex stimuli. Besides fulfilling functions in object coding, recent neurophysiological findings in freely moving rodents indicate that the perirhinal cortex also contributes to spatial and contextual processing beyond individual sensory modalities. Here, we address how these two opposing views on perirhinal cortex—the object‐centered and spatial‐contextual processing hypotheses—may be reconciled. The perirhinal cortex is consistently recruited when different features can be merged perceptually or conceptually into a single entity. Features that are unitized in these entities include object information from multiple sensory domains, reward associations, semantic features and spatial/contextual associations. We propose that the same perirhinal network circuits can be flexibly deployed for multiple cognitive functions, such that the perirhinal cortex performs similar unitization operations on different types of information, depending on behavioral demands and ranging from the object‐related domain to spatial, contextual and semantic information.
Patient and provider perceptions on utilizing a mobile technology platform to improve surgical outcomes in the perioperative setting
Authors: Huynh Brandon , Barrett James , Joachim Alyssa , Smith David , Stafford Linda C. , Abbott Daniel E. , Alagoz Esra
Published: February 2021

Background and Objectives

Patient engagement software is a ubiquitous and expensive commercially available tool designed to improve transitions of care. There are currently no high‐quality patient and provider‐level data about the usability of these products for surgical oncology patients. This study aims to better understand patient and provider attitudes and perceptions about the implementation of such technology.

Methods

Focused interviews were conducted following the demonstration of a provider‐built mobile technology platform. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. Data were consensus coded inductively and categorized into themes regarding patient and provider perspectives on the usability and implementation of MobiMD.

Results

Our interviews revealed four consistent themes: (1) patients feel there is a lack of reliable resources for patient education; (2) both patients and providers are supportive of using a mobile application; (3) providers perceive patient onboarding as an added burden on current workflows; and (4) after onboarding, providers express that such an application would optimize current workflows.

Conclusions

Patients perceive a need for improved perioperative education. Providers and patients agree that a mobile technology platform would be an effective solution in addressing this need. Effective implementation of such an intervention may improve patient education and engagement, leading to improved patient outcomes.
Short‐term chemosensory distortions and phantoms in COVID‐19
Authors: Gurrola José G. , Chang Jolie L. , Roland Lauren T. , Loftus Patricia A. , Cheung Steven W.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To identify differentiation features of chemosensory dysfunction in COVID‐19 infection and their primary drivers.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional cohort comparison.

Methods

A national anonymous survey was used to query participants regarding nasal symptoms and chemosensory dysfunction including sensitivity levels, and presence or absence of distortions and phantoms within the 6‐week time window surrounding their COVID‐19 testing and survey completion.

Results

Three‐hundred and sixty‐four respondents who reported COVID‐19 positive (COVID+; n = 176) or COVID‐19 negative (COVID−; n = 188) test results completed the survey. The COVID+ cohort had higher occurrence rates for: (a) chemosensory sensitivity impairments (67.0% vs 30.3%; P < .01), where the rate of complete loss of smell (anosmia) or taste (ageusia) was higher (35.8% vs 4.8%; P < .01), and (b) chemosensory distortions (39.8% vs 19.1%; P < .01), where the rate of anosmia or ageusia with distortions was also higher in the COVID+ cohort (19.9% vs 2.7%; P < .01). Occurrence rates in the two cohorts were similar for chemosensory phantoms (COVID+ 17.0%, COVID− 18.6%; P = .70) and nasal discharge or stuffiness in the presence of sensitivity impairment (COVID+ 63.6%, COVID− 52.6%; P = .17).

Conclusion

Chemosensory dysfunction in COVID‐19 is associated with higher rates of smell or taste sensitivity impairments and distortions. Higher rates of anosmia and ageusia drive these key findings. Chemosensory phantoms and nasal symptoms in the presence of sensitivity impairment occur at rates that should demand clinical attention, but they do not appear to be specific to COVID‐19 positivity.

Level of Evidence

2b.
Stretchable Multicolor Emission of Polymer/Dye Blends Induced by Intermolecular Interaction and Solid‐State Aggregation
Authors: Ho Jin‐Chieh , Lin Yan‐Cheng , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: February 2021

The preparation, morphology and photophysical properties of stretchable polymer/fluorescent dyes (FDs) blends are reported. The used FDs include 2‐naphthalenemethanol (NA), 9‐anthracenemethanol (AN), 1‐pyrenemethanol (PY), and 3‐perylenylmethanol (PE). It is discovered that the solid‐state aggregation in FDs/polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) promotes through the intermolecular interaction leading to an ordered structure in the blends. In contrast, the blends using other polymers of poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) show disordered structure and poor stretchability‐performance properties. This might be related to the interruption on the solid‐state stacking of FDs from hydrogen‐bonding interaction between the matrix polymer and the FDs, leading to the inefficient pathway for the exciton migration. The crosslinked PDMS/PY composites present an excellent luminescence properties featured with photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 13.8% and stretchability featured with elongation at the break of 80% strain.
Phototriggered Crosslinking and Surface Modification via Catalyst‐Free Functionalization of a New Orthogonal Agent Containing Nitrile N‐Oxide and o‐Nitrobenzyl Ether Moieties
Authors: Cheawchan Sumitra , Sogawa Hiromitsu , Takata Toshikazu
Published: February 2021

A new orthogonal agent containing phototriggered o‐nitrobenzyl (NB) ether and kinetically stabilized nitrile N‐oxide moieties are synthesized and applied to the reliable catalyst‐free functionalization of materials. This orthogonal reagent enables the modification of rubbers and glass surfaces containing unsaturated bonds through the catalyst‐free [2+3] cycloaddition reaction of nitrile N‐oxide to obtain photolabile NB ether‐functionalized materials. The resulting substrates having an NB ether are suitable to undergo photocontrollable reactions with electrophiles for generating various types of functional materials.
PCA denoising and Wiener deconvolution of 31P 3D CSI data to enhance effective SNR and improve point spread function
Authors: Froeling Martijn , Prompers Jeanine J. , Klomp Dennis W. J. , van der Velden Tijl A.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study evaluates the performance of 2 processing methods, that is, principal component analysis‐based denoising and Wiener deconvolution, to enhance the quality of phosphorus 3D chemical shift imaging data.

Methods

Principal component analysis‐based denoising increases the SNR while maintaining spectral information. Wiener deconvolution reduces the FWHM of the voxel point spread function, which is increased by Hamming filtering or Hamming‐weighted acquisition. The proposed methods are evaluated using simulated and in vivo 3D phosphorus chemical shift imaging data by 1) visual inspection of the spatial signal distribution; 2) SNR calculation of the PCr peak; and 3) fitting of metabolite basis functions.

Results

With the optimal order of processing steps, we show that the effective SNR of in vivo phosphorus 3D chemical shift imaging data can be increased. In simulations, we show we can preserve phosphorus‐containing metabolite peaks that had an SNR < 1 before denoising. Furthermore, using Wiener deconvolution, we were able to reduce the FWHM of the voxel point spread function with only partially reintroducing Gibb‐ringing artifacts while maintaining the SNR. After data processing, fitting of the phosphorus‐containing metabolite signals improved.

Conclusion

In this study, we have shown that principal component analysis‐based denoising in combination with regularized Wiener deconvolution allows increasing the effective spectral SNR of in vivo phosphorus 3D chemical shift imaging data, with reduction of the FWHM of the voxel point spread function. Processing increased the effective SNR by at least threefold compared to Hamming weighted acquired data and minimized voxel bleeding. With these methods, fitting of metabolite amplitudes became more robust with decreased fitting residuals.
Implementing Historical Controls in Oncology Trials
Authors: Collignon Olivier , Schritz Anna , Spezia Riccardo , Senn Stephen J.
Published: February 2021

Drug development in oncology has broadened from mainly considering randomized clinical trials to also including single-arm trials tailored for very specific subtypes of cancer. They often use historical controls, and this article discusses benefits and risks of this paradigm and provide various regulatory and statistical considerations. While leveraging the information brought by historical controls could potentially shorten development time and reduce the number of patients enrolled, a careful selection of the past studies, a prespecified statistical analysis accounting for the heterogeneity between studies, and early engagement with regulators will be key to success. Although both the European Medicines Agency and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have already approved medicines based on nonrandomized experiments, the evidentiary package can be perceived as less comprehensive than randomized experiments. Use of historical controls, therefore, is better suited for cases of high unmet clinical need, where the disease course is well characterized and the primary endpoint is objective.

Implications for Practice

Incorporating historical data in single-arm oncology trials has the potential to accelerate drug development and to reduce the number of patients enrolled, compared with standard randomized controlled clinical trials. Given the lack of blinding and randomization, such an approach is better suited for cases of high unmet clinical need and/or difficult experimental situations, in which the trajectory of the disease is well characterized and the endpoint can be measured objectively. Careful pre-specification and selection of the historical data, matching of the patient characteristics with the concurrent trial data, and innovative statistical methodologies accounting for between-study variation will be needed. Early engagement with regulators (e.g., via Scientific Advice) is highly recommended.
Genoa San Giorgio Bridge
Authors: Sarcina Gioacchino , Dal Zotto Siro , Poltronieri Francesco , Raccagni Marco , Sartori Lorenzo , Cardella Vito , Morbin Andrea
Published: February 2021

A bridge that slowly crosses Polcevera Valley, step by step, in silence, almost asking for permission; a bridge that will be like a ship, a big white vessel moored in the valley; a bridge that can't be banal in its simplicity; a bridge made by Italian excellences who, through an intense activity of coordination, planning and the work of expert professionals, had to carry out the work as soon as possible. It is through the words of its designer, architect and senator for life Renzo Piano, that we want to introduce the new Genova San Giorgio Bridge. The steel contractor's approach to the realization of the work is summed up in the words of the CEO Giuseppe Bono: ”The bridge must be an expression and a symbol of the country all over the world. All this is Fincantieri, what we have done so far and what we will do. Fincantieri represents something unique in our country, with introduction of its unparalleled integration model.“ The steel contractor has made the replacement of former Morandi bridge possible only two years after the tragic events of 14 August 2018, bringing the road system of the Autostrada dei Fiori motorway back to normal.
Development of a questionnaire for assessing Spanish‐speaking students' understanding of the nature of models and their uses in science
Authors: Oliva José M. , Blanco‐López Angel
Published: February 2021

The translation and adaptation of an assessment instrument into another language can be problematic, due, among other reasons, to sociocultural differences. This proved to be the case with the Spanish adaptation of the Students' Understanding of Models in Science (SUMS) questionnaire, a Likert‐type scale developed originally in English. In light of this, and with the additional aim of improving upon certain aspects of the original instrument, we report the development of a new questionnaire for assessing Spanish‐speaking students' understanding of the nature of models and their uses in science, providing validity evidence for the internal structure of the construct measured. The tool was developed by considering various dimensions of this concept that have been described in the literature, as well as the results of studies that piloted the SUMS questionnaire. For each dimension we drew up a set of items that could be rated using a Likert‐type scale; half of these items were positively worded with respect to an adequate understanding of models, and half were reverse worded. The adequacy of the proposed items was first assessed by a panel of experts, following which we examined the score structure obtained with the resulting instrument by administering it to a sample of 1272 students aged between 14 and 55 years. After purifying the instrument based on the results of these analyses, we obtained a final version of the questionnaire comprising 20 items distributed equally across four subscales: Beyond exact replicas, Purpose of models, Multiple models, and Changing models. The results obtained through factor analysis and structural equation modeling provide validity evidence for the internal structure of the construct measured. The questionnaire is quick to administer and is applicable to students across a wide range of ages and levels of education, including prospective science teachers.
Effects of Tilletia foetida on Microbial Communities in the Rhizosphere Soil of Wheat Seeds Coated with Different Concentrations of Jianzhuang
Authors: Din Ghulam Muhae Ud , Du Zhenzhen , Zhang Han , Zhao Sifeng , Liu Taiguo , Chen Wanquan , Gao Li
Published: February 2021

Tilletia foetida (syn. T. laevis) leads to wheat common bunt, a worldwide disease that can lead to 80% yield loss and even total loss of production, together with degrading the quality of grains and flour by producing a rotten fish smell. To explore the potential microbial community that may contribute to the control of soil- and seed-borne pathogens, in this study, we analyzed the effects of the plant pathogenic fungus T. foetida on rhizosphere soil microorganisms in wheat seeds coated with different concentrations of a fungicide (Jianzhuang) used to control the disease. To analyze the bacterial and fungal abundance in T. foetida-infected and mock-infected plants, the microorganisms were sequenced using high-throughput HiSeq 2500 gene sequencing. The results showed that bacterial communities, including Verrucomicrobia, Patescibacteria, Armatimonadetes, Nitrospirae, Fibrobacteres, Chlamydiae, and Hydrogenedentes, and fungal communities, including Basidiomycota and Ciliophora, were more prevalent in the mock group than in the T. foetida-infected group, which may contribute to the control of wheat common bunt. Moreover, cluster and PCoA analysis revealed that replicates of the same samples were clustered together, and these results were also found in the distance index within-group analysis for bacterial and fungal communities in the T. foetida-infected and mock groups.
Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) associations with diseases in ethnic groups of the Arabian Peninsula
Authors: Al Naqbi Halima , Mawart Aurélie , Alshamsi Jawaher , Al Safar Habiba , Tay Guan K.
Published: February 2021

Since the discovery of human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), the function of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene families in a wide range of diseases have been the subject of research for decades. In particular, the associations of autoimmune disorders to allelic variants and candidate genes encoding the MHC are well documented. However, despite decades of research, the knowledge of MHC associations with human disease susceptibility have been predominantly studied in European origin, with limited understanding in different populations and ethnic groups. This is particularly evident in countries and ethnic populations of the Arabian Peninsula. Human MHC haplotypes, and its association with diseases, of the variable ethnic groups of this region are poorly studied. This review compiled published manuscripts that have reported a list of autoimmune diseases (insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, systemic lupus erythematosus, myasthenia gravis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis vulgaris, and multiple sclerosis) associated with MHC class I and class II in the populations of the Arabian Peninsula, specifically Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Data available was compared with other three ethnic groups, namely Caucasians, Asians, and Africans. The limited data available in the public domain on the association between MHC gene and autoimmune diseases highlight the challenges in the Middle Eastern region.
Identification and validation of new reference genes for accurate quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR normalization in the Antarctic plant Colobanthus quitensis under abiotic stress conditions
Authors: Bertini Laura , Proietti Silvia , Focaracci Francesca , Canini Fabiana , Bravo Leon A. , Rabert Claudia , Caruso Carla
Published: February 2021

The Antarctic ecotype of Colobanthus quitensis is a vascular plant highly adapted to the harsh environmental conditions of Maritime Antarctica which is now facing with the rapid local warming experienced in the Antarctic Peninsula during the last decades. Thus, the identification of the molecular mechanisms leading to the adaptation to this warming trend is a new target for modern cell physiology. The selection of suitable reference genes for quantification of key stress-responsive genes through quantitative Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) is important to ensure accurate and reliable results. In this study, we evaluated the expression stability of eleven candidate genes in C. quitensis under different abiotic stress conditions using geNorm and RefFinder tools. The statistical analysis showed that the appropriate reference genes varied depending on the experimental conditions, even if EF1α and PP2Acs ranked as the most stable reference genes when all stress conditions were considered. To further validate the stability of the selected reference genes, the expression patterns of C. quitensis catalase gene (CqCAT) was analyzed. The reference genes validated in this study will be useful for improving the accuracy of qRT-PCR analysis for gene expression studies of the Antarctic ecotype of C. quitensis and could be extended to other ecotypes adapted to low temperatures.
The development of a faecal incontinence core outcome set: an international Delphi study protocol
Authors: Assmann Sadé , Keszthelyi Daniel , Kleijnen Jos , Kimman Merel , Anastasiou Foteini , Bradshaw Elissa , Carrington Emma , Chiarioni Giuseppe , Maeda Yasuko , Muris Jean , Pohl Daniel , Rydningen Mona , Vaizey Carolynne , Breukink Stephanie
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Faecal incontinence (FI) is estimated to affect around 7.7% of people. There is a lack of uniformity in outcome definitions, measurement and reporting in FI studies. Until now, there is no general consensus on which outcomes should be assessed and reported in FI research. This complicates comparison between studies and evidence synthesis, potentially leading to recommendations not evidence-based enough to guide physicians in selecting an FI therapy. A solution for this lack of uniformity in reporting of outcomes is the development of a Core Outcome Set (COS) for FI. This paper describes the protocol for the development of a European COS for FI.

Methods

Patient interviews and a systematic review of the literature will be performed to identify patient-, physician- and researcher-oriented outcomes. The outcomes will be categorised using the COMET taxonomy and put forward to a group of patients, physicians (i.e. colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and general practitioners) and researchers in a Delphi consensus exercise. This exercise will consist of up to three web-based rounds in which participants will prioritise and condense the list of outcomes, which is expected to result in consensus. A consensus meeting with participants from all stakeholder groups will take place to reach a final agreement on the COS.

Discussion

This study protocol describes the development of a European COS to improve reliability and consistency of outcome reporting in FI studies, thereby improving evidence synthesis and patient care.

Trial registration

This project has been registered in the COMET database on the 1st of April 2020, available at http://www.comet-initiative.org/Studies/Details/1554. The systematic review has been registered on the PROSPERO database on the 31st of August 2020, available at https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=202020&VersionID=1381336.
Wide distribution of prion infectivity in the peripheral tissues of vCJD and sCJD patients
Authors: Douet Jean-Yves , Huor Alvina , Cassard Hervé , Lugan Séverine , Aron Naima , Arnold Mark , Vilette Didier , Torres Juan-Maria , Ironside James W. , Andreoletti Olivier
Published: February 2021

Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD) is the commonest human prion disease, occurring most likely as the consequence of spontaneous formation of abnormal prion protein in the central nervous system (CNS). Variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (vCJD) is an acquired prion disease that was first identified in 1996. In marked contrast to vCJD, previous investigations in sCJD revealed either inconsistent levels or an absence of PrPSc in peripheral tissues. These findings contributed to the consensus that risks of transmitting sCJD as a consequence of non-CNS invasive clinical procedures were low. In this study, we systematically measured prion infectivity levels in CNS and peripheral tissues collected from vCJD and sCJD patients. Unexpectedly, prion infectivity was detected in a wide variety of peripheral tissues in sCJD cases. Although the sCJD infectivity levels varied unpredictably in the tissues sampled and between patients, these findings could impact on our perception of the possible transmission risks associated with sCJD.