bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Physiological Experimental Study on the Effect of Different Color of Safety Signs on a Virtual Subway Fire Escape—An Exploratory Case Study of Zijing Mountain Subway Station
Authors: Chen Na , Zhao Ming , Gao Kun , Zhao Jun
Published: August 2020

Safety signs play a very important role in people’s evacuation during emergencies. In order to explore the appropriate color for subway safety signs, four safety signs of different color combinations are designed, and the virtual reality, eye-tracking technology, and physiological indicator measurement are used in a virtual subway fire escape experiment. A total of 96 participants with equal distribution in gender and four different color combination groups were recruited. Participants’ eye-tracking and physiological data (heart rate, skin conductance) were real-time recorded through ErgoLAB V3.0 in the whole experiment. The relationship between Color_of_safety_sign and escape performance, eye-tracking indicators, and physiological indicators is discussed respectively through SPSS. The results show that “Green and black” group has the best evacuation escape performance, low cognitive load, high search efficiency on safety signs, and the highest stress level and immersion and “Green and black” can be the most appropriate color for safety sign. This research is of certain significance for improving the function of subway fire-fighting infrastructure and the resilience of the metro system. Moreover, it can provide references and advice on risk management, emergency evacuation, and so on.
Understanding COVID-19: From Origin to Potential Therapeutics
Authors: Moazzam Muhammad , Sajid Muhammad Imran , Shahid Hamza , Butt Jahanzaib , Bashir Irfan , Jamshaid Muhammad , Shirazi Amir Nasrolahi , Tiwari Rakesh Kumar
Published: August 2020

Currently, a global pandemic era of public health concerns is going on with the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first case of COVID-19 was reported from Wuhan’s Huanan seafood market in China late December 2019. Bats, pangolins, and snakes have been nominated as salient carriers of the virus. Thanks to its high pathogenicity, it can cause severe respiratory infections. Fever, dry cough, sore throat, pneumonia, septic shock, and ground-glass opacities are the foremost clinical manifestations of COVID-19. Immunocompromised patients are at high risk for COVID-19 infection and may lead to death. Scientist and government agencies around the globe are putting forward their best efforts and resources for the effective treatment of human coronavirus infections; however, neither vaccines nor antiviral drugs are available for the treatment of human coronaviruses (HCoV) infections such as SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), MERS (Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome), and COVID-19. Since the outbreak, a plethora of research and review articles have been published. Moreover, the mass media has bombarded the public with conflicting opinions about the pandemic. There is a dire need for accurate and reliable information concerning this pandemic. In this review, we have compiled the up to date information about the origins, evolution, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of this disease. Moreover, very few reports have addressed the clinical features and current status of treatment for COVID-19; we have adequately addressed these topics in detail in this review. Finally, a detailed account of clinical trials of vaccines and other therapeutics currently in progress has been delineated.
Multilevel Analysis of the Relationship between Ownership Structure and Technical Efficiency Frontier in the Spanish National Health System Hospitals
Authors: Ortega-Díaz Mª Isabel , Ocaña-Riola Ricardo , Pérez-Romero Carmen , Martín-Martín José Jesús
Published: August 2020

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between the ownership structure of hospitals and the possibility of their being positioned on the frontier of technical efficiency in the economic crisis period 2010–2012, adjusting for hospital variables and regional characteristics in the areas where the Spanish National Health System (SNHS) hospitals are located. Methods: 230 National Health System hospitals were studied over the two-year period 2010–2012 according to their ownership structure—public hospitals, private hospitals and public–private partnership (PPP)—data envelopment analysis orientated to inputs was used to measure the overall technical efficiency, pure efficiency and efficiency of scale. A generalised linear mixed model (GLMM) with binomial distribution and logit link function was used to analyse the hospital and regional variables associated with positioning on the frontier. Results: There are substantial differences between the average pure technical efficiency of public, private and PPP hospitals, as well as a greater number of PPP models being positioned on the efficiency frontier (91.67% in 2012). The odds of being positioned on the frontier are 41.7 times higher in PPP models than in public hospitals. The average annual household income per region is related to the greater odds of hospitals being positioned on the frontier of efficiency. Conclusions: During the most acute period of recession in the Spanish economy, PPP formulas favoured hospital efficiency, by increasing the odds of being positioned on the frontier of efficiency when compared to private and public hospitals. The position on the frontier of efficiency of a hospital is related to the wealth of its region.
Development of Hourly Indoor PM2.5 Concentration Prediction Model: The Role of Outdoor Air, Ventilation, Building Characteristic, and Human Activity
Authors: Jung Chien-Cheng , Lin Wan-Yi , Hsu Nai-Yun , Wu Chih-Da , Chang Hao-Ting , Su Huey-Jen
Published: August 2020

Exposure to indoor particulate matter less than 2.5 µm in diameter (PM2.5) is a critical health risk factor. Therefore, measuring indoor PM2.5 concentrations is important for assessing their health risks and further investigating the sources and influential factors. However, installing monitoring instruments to collect indoor PM2.5 data is difficult and expensive. Therefore, several indoor PM2.5 concentration prediction models have been developed. However, these prediction models only assess the daily average PM2.5 concentrations in cold or temperate regions. The factors that influence PM2.5 concentration differ according to climatic conditions. In this study, we developed a prediction model for hourly indoor PM2.5 concentrations in Taiwan (tropical and subtropical region) by using a multiple linear regression model and investigated the impact factor. The sample comprised 93 study cases (1979 measurements) and 25 potential predictor variables. Cross-validation was performed to assess performance. The prediction model explained 74% of the variation, and outdoor PM2.5 concentrations, the difference between indoor and outdoor CO2 levels, building type, building floor level, bed sheet cleaning, bed sheet replacement, and mosquito coil burning were included in the prediction model. Cross-validation explained 75% of variation on average. The results also confirm that the prediction model can be used to estimate indoor PM2.5 concentrations across seasons and areas. In summary, we developed a prediction model of hourly indoor PM2.5 concentrations and suggested that outdoor PM2.5 concentrations, ventilation, building characteristics, and human activities should be considered. Moreover, it is important to consider outdoor air quality while occupants open or close windows or doors for regulating ventilation rate and human activities changing also can reduce indoor PM2.5 concentrations.
Independent and Combined Relationships of Perceived Neighborhood Social Cohesion and Physical Frailty on Functional Disability in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Xie Boqin , Ma Chenjuan , Wang Junqiao
Published: August 2020

Functional disability and physical frailty (PF) are debilitating geriatric conditions. Previous studies have suggested both perceived neighborhood social cohesion (PNSC) and PF can influence functional disability and may have an interactive effect too. This cross-sectional study aims to examine the independent and combined relationships of PF and PNSC on functional disability in community-dwelling older adults in Shanghai, China. A total of 1616 older adults aged ≥ 75 years were recruited using multistage sampling. Results showed that prefrailty, frailty (using the modified frailty phenotype criteria), and low PNSC (measured by the Neighborhood Cohesion Scale) were independently associated with increased likelihood of functional disability after adjustment of covariates. To evaluate the combined relationships of PF and PNSC, participants were classified into six groups based on their levels of PF and PNSC. The probability of frail older adults with low PNSC having functional disability stood out compared with the robust older adults with high PNSC. Our findings suggest the importance of high PNSC as a protective factor of maintaining functional ability. Future longitudinal studies are needed to identify the role of PNSC in the development of functional disability among frail older adults.
Health Status and Health Care Needs of Drought-Related Migrants in the Horn of Africa—A Qualitative Investigation
Authors: Lindvall Kristina , Kinsman John , Abraha Atakelti , Dalmar Abdirisak , Abdullahi Mohamed Farah , Godefay Hagos , Lerenten Thomas Lelekoitien , Mohamoud Mohamed Osman , Mohamud Bile Khalif , Musumba Jairus , Schumann Barbara
Published: August 2020

Somalia, Kenya and Ethiopia, situated in the Horn of Africa, are highly vulnerable to climate change, which manifests itself through increasing temperatures, erratic rains and prolonged droughts. Millions of people have to flee from droughts or floods either as cross-border refugees or as internally displaced persons (IDPs). The aim of this study was to identify knowledge status and gaps regarding public health consequences of large-scale displacement in these countries. After a scoping review, we conducted qualitative in-depth interviews during 2018 with 39 stakeholders from different disciplines and agencies in these three countries. A validation workshop was held with a selection of 13 interviewees and four project partners. Malnutrition and a lack of vaccination of displaced people are well-known challenges, while mental health problems and gender-based violence (GBV) are less visible to stakeholders. In particular, the needs of IDPs are not well understood. The treatment of mental health and GBV is insufficient, and IDPs have inadequate access to essential health services in refugee camps. Needs assessment and program evaluations with a patients’ perspective are either lacking or inadequate in most situations. The Horn of Africa is facing chronic food insecurity, poor population health and mass displacement. IDPs are an underserved group, and mental health services are lacking. A development approach is necessary that moves beyond emergency responses to the building of long-term resilience, the provision of livelihood support and protection to reduce displacement by droughts.
Social Media Use and Depressive Symptoms—A Longitudinal Study from Early to Late Adolescence
Authors: Puukko Kati , Hietajärvi Lauri , Maksniemi Erika , Alho Kimmo , Salmela-Aro Katariina
Published: August 2020

An increasing number of studies have addressed how adolescents’ social media use is associated with depressive symptoms. However, few studies have examined whether these links occur longitudinally across adolescence when examined at the individual level of development. This study investigated the within-person effects between active social media use and depressive symptoms using a five-wave longitudinal dataset gathered from 2891 Finnish adolescents (42.7% male, age range 13–19 years). Sensitivity analysis was conducted, adjusting for gender and family financial status. The results indicate that depressive symptoms predicted small increases in active social media use during both early and late adolescence, whereas no evidence of the reverse relationship was found. Yet, the associations were very small, statistically weak, and somewhat inconsistent over time. The results provide support for the growing notion that the previously reported direct links between social media use and depressive symptoms might be exaggerated. Based on these findings, we suggest that the impact of social media on adolescents’ well-being should be approached through methodological assumptions that focus on individual-level development.
Social Development of Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder During Dog-Assisted Therapy: A Detailed Observational Analysis
Authors: Wijker Carolien , van der Steen Steffie , Spek Annelies , Leontjevas Ruslan , Enders-Slegers Marie-Jose
Published: August 2020

Social communication and self-esteem are often affected in adults with autism spectrum disorder. Implementation and evaluation of interventions targeting social skills are challenged due to specific characteristics of autism. Intensive, valid evaluation of social skills programs is needed. In this explorative multiple case study, we examined effects and working mechanisms of dog-assisted therapy on social communication and self-esteem, by analyzing detailed observations with Monte Carlo permutation tests (testing against 10,000 random samples) and using self- and other-reports in N=6 high-functioning adults with ASD. Results showed significant positive effects on secure body posture. There was an indication of improved self-esteem and more spontaneous touching of the dog, while no convincing increase was found for verbal initiatives. Cross-correlation analyses revealed that touching the therapy dog may be an important determinant to elicit social development in Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT). Considering preliminary results, we recommend exploring underlying mechanisms more thoroughly with real-time observations, accounting for possible gender-effects.
Contribution of KCNQ and TREK Channels to the Resting Membrane Potential in Sympathetic Neurons at Physiological Temperature
Authors: Rivas-Ramírez Paula , Reboreda Antonio , Rueda-Ruzafa Lola , Herrera-Pérez Salvador , Lamas Jose Antonio
Published: August 2020

The ionic mechanisms controlling the resting membrane potential (RMP) in superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons have been widely studied and the M-current (IM, KCNQ) is one of the key players. Recently, with the discovery of the presence of functional TREK-2 (TWIK-related K+ channel 2) channels in SCG neurons, another potential main contributor for setting the value of the resting membrane potential has appeared. In the present work, we quantified the contribution of TREK-2 channels to the resting membrane potential at physiological temperature and studied its role in excitability using patch-clamp techniques. In the process we have discovered that TREK-2 channels are sensitive to the classic M-current blockers linopirdine and XE991 (IC50 = 0.310 ± 0.06 µM and 0.044 ± 0.013 µM, respectively). An increase from room temperature (23 °C) to physiological temperature (37 °C) enhanced both IM and TREK-2 currents. Likewise, inhibition of IM by tetraethylammonium (TEA) and TREK-2 current by XE991 depolarized the RMP at room and physiological temperatures. Temperature rise also enhanced adaptation in SCG neurons which was reduced due to TREK-2 and IM inhibition by XE991 application. In summary, TREK-2 and M currents contribute to the resting membrane potential and excitability at room and physiological temperature in the primary culture of mouse SCG neurons.
Phosphoproteomic Analysis of Rat Neutrophils Shows the Effect of Intestinal Ischemia/Reperfusion and Preconditioning on Kinases and Phosphatases
Authors: Tahir Muhammad , Arshid Samina , Fontes Belchor , S. Castro Mariana , Sidoli Simone , Schwämmle Veit , Luz Isabelle S. , Roepstorff Peter , Fontes Wagner
Published: August 2020

Intestinal ischemia reperfusion injury (iIRI) is a severe clinical condition presenting high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Some of the systemic consequences of IRI can be prevented by applying ischemic preconditioning (IPC), a series of short ischemia/reperfusion events preceding the major ischemia. Although neutrophils are key players in the pathophysiology of ischemic injuries, neither the dysregulation presented by these cells in iIRI nor the protective effect of iIPC have their regulation mechanisms fully understood. Protein phosphorylation, as well as the regulation of the respective phosphatases and kinases are responsible for regulating a large number of cellular functions in the inflammatory response. Moreover, in previous work we found hydrolases and transferases to be modulated in iIR and iIPC, suggesting the possible involvement of phosphatases and kinases in the process. Therefore, in the present study, we analyzed the phosphoproteome of neutrophils from rats submitted to mesenteric ischemia and reperfusion, either submitted or not to IPC, compared to quiescent controls and sham laparotomy. Proteomic analysis was performed by multi-step enrichment of phosphopeptides, isobaric labeling, and LC-MS/MS analysis. Bioinformatics was used to determine phosphosite and phosphopeptide abundance and clustering, as well as kinases and phosphatases sites and domains. We found that most of the phosphorylation-regulated proteins are involved in apoptosis and migration, and most of the regulatory kinases belong to CAMK and CMGC families. An interesting finding revealed groups of proteins that are modulated by iIR, but such modulation can be prevented by iIPC. Among the regulated proteins related to the iIPC protective effect, Vamp8 and Inpp5d/Ship are discussed as possible candidates for control of the iIR damage.
Nicotinic Cholinergic System and COVID-19: In Silico Identification of an Interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and Nicotinic Receptors with Potential Therapeutic Targeting Implications
Authors: Farsalinos Konstantinos , Eliopoulos Elias , Leonidas Demetres D. , Papadopoulos Georgios E. , Tzartos Socrates , Poulas Konstantinos
Published: August 2020

While SARS-CoV-2 uses angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as the receptor for cell entry, it is important to examine other potential interactions between the virus and other cell receptors. Based on the clinical observation of low prevalence of smoking among hospitalized COVID-19 patients, we examined and identified a “toxin-like” amino acid (aa) sequence in the Receptor Binding Domain of the Spike Glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 (aa 375–390), which is homologous to a sequence of the Neurotoxin homolog NL1, one of the many snake venom toxins that are known to interact with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). We present the 3D structural location of this “toxin-like” sequence on the Spike Glycoprotein and the superposition of the modelled structure of the Neurotoxin homolog NL1 and the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein. We also performed computational molecular modelling and docking experiments using 3D structures of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein and the extracellular domain of the nAChR α9 subunit. We identified a main interaction between the aa 381–386 of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein and the aa 189–192 of the extracellular domain of the nAChR α9 subunit, a region which forms the core of the “toxin-binding site” of the nAChRs. The mode of interaction is very similar to the interaction between the α9 nAChR and α-bungarotoxin. A similar interaction was observed between the pentameric α7 AChR chimera and SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein. The findings raise the possibility that SARS-CoV-2 may interact with nAChRs, supporting the hypothesis of dysregulation of the nicotinic cholinergic system being implicated in the pathophysiology of COVID-19. Nicotine and other nicotinic cholinergic agonists may protect nAChRs and thus have therapeutic value in COVID-19 patients.
Critical Analysis of Genome-Wide Association Studies: Triple Negative Breast Cancer Quae Exempli Causa
Authors: Jurj Maria-Ancuta , Buse Mihail , Zimta Alina-Andreea , Paradiso Angelo , Korban Schuyler S. , Pop Laura-Ancuta , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana
Published: August 2020

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are useful in assessing and analyzing either differences or variations in DNA sequences across the human genome to detect genetic risk factors of diseases prevalent within a target population under study. The ultimate goal of GWAS is to predict either disease risk or disease progression by identifying genetic risk factors. These risk factors will define the biological basis of disease susceptibility for the purposes of developing innovative, preventative, and therapeutic strategies. As single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are often used in GWAS, their relevance for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) will be assessed in this review. Furthermore, as there are different levels and patterns of linkage disequilibrium (LD) present within different human subpopulations, a plausible strategy to evaluate known SNPs associated with incidence of breast cancer in ethnically different patient cohorts will be presented and discussed. Additionally, a description of GWAS for TNBC will be presented, involving various identified SNPs correlated with miRNA sites to determine their efficacies on either prognosis or progression of TNBC in patients. Although GWAS have identified multiple common breast cancer susceptibility variants that individually would result in minor risks, it is their combined effects that would likely result in major risks. Thus, one approach to quantify synergistic effects of such common variants is to utilize polygenic risk scores. Therefore, studies utilizing predictive risk scores (PRSs) based on known breast cancer susceptibility SNPs will be evaluated. Such PRSs are potentially useful in improving stratification for screening, particularly when combining family history, other risk factors, and risk prediction models. In conclusion, although interpretation of the results from GWAS remains a challenge, the use of SNPs associated with TNBC may elucidate and better contextualize these studies.
Recent Advances in Porphyrin-Based Materials for Metal Ions Detection
Authors: Qi Zhen-Li , Cheng Yun-Hui , Xu Zhou , Chen Mao-Long
Published: August 2020

Porphyrins have planar and conjugated structures, good optical properties, and other special functional properties. Owing to these excellent properties, in recent years, porphyrins and their analogues have emerged as a multifunctional platform for chemical sensors. The rich chemistry of these molecules offers many possibilities for metal ions detection. This review mainly discusses two types of molecular porphyrin and porphyrin composite sensors for metal ions detection, because porphyrins can be functionalized to improve their functional properties, which can introduce more chemical and functional sites. According to the different application materials, the section of porphyrin composite sensors is divided into five sub-categories: (1) porphyrin film, (2) porphyrin metal complex, (3) metal–organic frameworks, (4) graphene materials, and (5) other materials, respectively.
Evidence for Enhanced Exosome Production in Aromatase Inhibitor-Resistant Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Augimeri Giuseppina , La Camera Giusi , Gelsomino Luca , Giordano Cinzia , Panza Salvatore , Sisci Diego , Morelli Catia , Győrffy Balázs , Bonofiglio Daniela , Andò Sebastiano , Barone Ines , Catalano Stefania
Published: August 2020

Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) represent the standard anti-hormonal therapy for post-menopausal estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, but their efficacy is limited by the emergence of AI resistance (AIR). Exosomes act as vehicles to engender cancer progression and drug resistance. The goal of this work was to study exosome contribution in AIR mechanisms, using estrogen-dependent MCF-7 breast cancer cells as models and MCF-7 LTED (Long-Term Estrogen Deprived) subline, modeling AIR. We found that exosome secretion was significantly increased in MCF-7 LTED cells compared to MCF-7 cells. MCF-7 LTED cells also exhibited a higher amount of exosomal RNA and proteins than MCF-7 cells. Proteomic analysis revealed significant alterations in the cellular proteome. Indeed, we showed an enrichment of proteins frequently identified in exosomes in MCF-7 LTED cells. The most up-regulated proteins in MCF-7 LTED cells were represented by Rab GTPases, important vesicle transport-regulators in cancer, that are significantly mapped in “small GTPase-mediated signal transduction”, “protein transport” and “vesicle-mediated transport” Gene Ontology categories. Expression of selected Rab GTPases was validated by immunoblotting. Collectively, we evidence, for the first time, that AIR breast cancer cells display an increased capability to release exosomes, which may be associated with an enhanced Rab GTPase expression. These data provide the rationale for further studies directed at clarifying exosome’s role on endocrine therapy, with the aim to offer relevant markers and druggable therapeutic targets for the management of hormone-resistant breast cancers.
Deep Learning Modeling of Androgen Receptor Responses to Prostate Cancer Therapies
Authors: Snow Oliver , Lallous Nada , Ester Martin , Cherkasov Artem
Published: August 2020

Gain-of-function mutations in human androgen receptor (AR) are among the major causes of drug resistance in prostate cancer (PCa). Identifying mutations that cause resistant phenotype is of critical importance for guiding treatment protocols, as well as for designing drugs that do not elicit adverse responses. However, experimental characterization of these mutations is time consuming and costly; thus, predictive models are needed to anticipate resistant mutations and to guide the drug discovery process. In this work, we leverage experimental data collected on 68 AR mutants, either observed in the clinic or described in the literature, to train a deep neural network (DNN) that predicts the response of these mutants to currently used and experimental anti-androgens and testosterone. We demonstrate that the use of this DNN, with general 2D descriptors, provides a more accurate prediction of the biological outcome (inhibition, activation, no-response, mixed-response) in AR mutant-drug pairs compared to other machine learning approaches. Finally, the developed approach was used to make predictions of AR mutant response to the latest AR inhibitor darolutamide, which were then validated by in-vitro experiments.
Gestational Factors throughout Fetal Neurodevelopment: The Serotonin Link
Authors: Hanswijk Sabrina I. , Spoelder Marcia , Shan Ling , Verheij Michel M. M. , Muilwijk Otto G. , Li Weizhuo , Liu Chunqing , Kolk Sharon M. , Homberg Judith R.
Published: August 2020

Serotonin (5-HT) is a critical player in brain development and neuropsychiatric disorders. Fetal 5-HT levels can be influenced by several gestational factors, such as maternal genotype, diet, stress, medication, and immune activation. In this review, addressing both human and animal studies, we discuss how these gestational factors affect placental and fetal brain 5-HT levels, leading to changes in brain structure and function and behavior. We conclude that gestational factors are able to interact and thereby amplify or counteract each other’s impact on the fetal 5-HT-ergic system. We, therefore, argue that beyond the understanding of how single gestational factors affect 5-HT-ergic brain development and behavior in offspring, it is critical to elucidate the consequences of interacting factors. Moreover, we describe how each gestational factor is able to alter the 5-HT-ergic influence on the thalamocortical- and prefrontal-limbic circuitry and the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenocortical-axis. These alterations have been associated with risks to develop attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, depression, and/or anxiety. Consequently, the manipulation of gestational factors may be used to combat pregnancy-related risks for neuropsychiatric disorders.
The Value of Morphometric Measurements in Risk Assessment for Donor-Site Complications after Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Meyer Muriel O. , Handschin Tristan M. , Boll Daniel T. , Chammartin Frédérique , Schaefer Dirk J. , Haug Martin D. , Kappos Elisabeth A.
Published: August 2020

Microsurgical abdominally-based reconstruction is considered the gold standard in autologous breast reconstruction. Despite refined surgical procedures, donor-site complications still occur, reducing patient satisfaction and quality of life. Recent work has outlined the potential of morphometric measurements in risk assessment for postoperative hernia development. With rising demand for personalised treatment, the goal of this study was to investigate their potential in risk assessment for any donor site complication. In this retrospective cohort study, 90 patients were included who each received microsurgical breast reconstruction at the hands of one surgeon between January 2015 and May 2017. Donor-site complications formed the primary outcome and were classified according to Clavien–Dindo. Morphometric measurements were taken on a routinely performed computed tomographic angiogram. Complications occurred in 13 of the 90 (14.4%) cases studied. All patients who developed any type of postoperative donor site complication had a history of abdominal surgery. The risk of postoperative complications increased by 3% with every square centimetre of omental fat tissue (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.00–1.06, and p-value = 0.022). Morphometric measurements provide valuable information in risk assessment for donor-site complications in abdominally-based breast reconstruction. They may help identify personalised reconstructive options for maximal postoperative patient satisfaction and quality of life.
Recent Advances in Mycobacterial Research
Authors: Venketaraman Vishwanath
Published: August 2020

Worldwide, tuberculosis (TB) remains the most frequent and important infectious disease that is responsible for causing significant morbidity and death [...]
Proof of Concept for Pultrusion Control by Cure Monitoring Using Resonant Ultrasound Spectroscopy
Authors: Pommer Christian , Sinapius Michael
Published: August 2020

The increasing demand for low cost consistent quality composite materials, especially of the automotive industry, creates the necessity for fast high quality processes. Pultrusion is one of the processes that can fulfill this demand. While the process is highly automated, manufacturing parameters still have to be chosen manually. The choice of line speed, mould temperature and injection pressure is based on best practice and therefore requires manual optimization that results in cost intensive manufacturing errors and suboptimal machine productivity. This paper presents a possible solution for this problem by providing an on-line cure monitoring approach that allows to overcome this challenge. Resonant Ultrasonic Spectroscopy (RUS) shows a high potential for in-line cure monitoring inside the pultrusion tool. RUS has been adapted for the first time in a pultrusion process. This paper focuses on the successful application of this technique to control the pultrusion process based on the state of cure of the material inside of the tool. As one of the only techniques for in-line cure monitoring which can be used continuously in closed tools despite high abrasion, it provides a new insight into the pultrusion process.
On Computational Aspects of Krawtchouk Polynomials for High Orders
Authors: Mahmmod Basheera M. , Abdul-Hadi Alaa M. , Abdulhussain Sadiq H. , Hussien Aseel
Published: August 2020

Discrete Krawtchouk polynomials are widely utilized in different fields for their remarkable characteristics, specifically, the localization property. Discrete orthogonal moments are utilized as a feature descriptor for images and video frames in computer vision applications. In this paper, we present a new method for computing discrete Krawtchouk polynomial coefficients swiftly and efficiently. The presented method proposes a new initial value that does not tend to be zero as the polynomial size increases. In addition, a combination of the existing recurrence relations is presented which are in the n- and x-directions. The utilized recurrence relations are developed to reduce the computational cost. The proposed method computes approximately 12.5% of the polynomial coefficients, and then symmetry relations are employed to compute the rest of the polynomial coefficients. The proposed method is evaluated against existing methods in terms of computational cost and maximum size can be generated. In addition, a reconstruction error analysis for image is performed using the proposed method for large signal sizes. The evaluation shows that the proposed method outperforms other existing methods.
Resting-State Isolated Effective Connectivity of the Cingulate Cortex as a Neurophysiological Biomarker in Patients with Severe Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
Authors: Wada Masataka , Nakajima Shinichiro , Tarumi Ryosuke , Masuda Fumi , Miyazaki Takahiro , Tsugawa Sakiko , Ogyu Kamiyu , Honda Shiori , Matsushita Karin , Kikuchi Yudai , Fujii Shinya , Blumberger Daniel M. , Daskalakis Zafiris J. , Mimura Masaru , Noda Yoshihiro
Published: August 2020

Background: The neural basis of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) remains unclear. Previous neuroimaging studies suggest that aberrant connectivity between the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and default mode network (DMN) may play a key role in the pathophysiology of TRS. Thus, we aimed to examine the connectivity between the ACC and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), a hub of the DMN, computing isolated effective coherence (iCoh), which represents causal effective connectivity. Methods: Resting-state electroencephalogram with 19 channels was acquired from seventeen patients with TRS and thirty patients with non-TRS (nTRS). The iCoh values between the PCC and ACC were calculated using sLORETA software. We conducted four-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) for iCoh values with group as a between-subject factor and frequency, directionality, and laterality as within-subject factors and post-hoc independent t-tests. Results: The ANOVA and post-hoc t-tests for the iCoh ratio of directionality from PCC to ACC showed significant findings in delta (t45 = 7.659, p = 0.008) and theta (t45 = 8.066, p = 0.007) bands in the left side (TRS < nTRS). Conclusion: Left delta and theta PCC and ACC iCoh ratio may represent a neurophysiological basis of TRS. Given the preliminary nature of this study, these results warrant further study to confirm the importance of iCoh as a clinical indicator for treatment-resistance.
Molecular Epidemiology Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Strains Circulating in Romania during the First Months of the Pandemic
Authors: Surleac Marius , Banica Leontina , Casangiu Corina , Cotic Marius , Florea Dragos , Sandulescu Oana , Milu Petre , Streinu-Cercel Anca , Vlaicu Ovidiu , Paraskevis Dimitrios , Paraschiv Simona , Otelea Dan
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND: The spread of SARS-CoV-2 generated an unprecedented global public health crisis. Soon after Asia, Europe was seriously affected. Many countries, including Romania, adopted lockdown measures to limit the outbreak. AIM: We performed a molecular epidemiology analysis of SARS-CoV-2 viral strains circulating in Romania during the first two months of the epidemic in order to detect mutation profiles and phylogenetic relatedness. METHODS: Respiratory samples were directly used for shotgun sequencing. RESULTS: All Romanian sequences belonged to lineage B, with a different subtype distribution between northern and southern regions (subtype B.1.5 and B.1.1). Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the Romanian epidemic started with multiple introduction events from other European countries followed by local transmission. Phylogenetic links between northern Romania and Spain, Austria, Scotland and Russia were observed, as well as between southern Romania and Switzerland, Italy, France and Turkey. One viral strain presented a previously unreported mutation in the Nsp2 gene, namely K489E. Epidemiologically-defined clusters displayed specific mutations, suggesting molecular signatures for strains coming from areas that were isolated during the lockdown. CONCLUSIONS: Romanian epidemic was initiated by multiple introductions from European countries followed by local transmissions. Different subtype distribution between northern and southern Romania was observed after two months of the pandemic.
What We Should Consider for Full Densification when Sintering
Authors: Kang Suk-Joong L.
Published: August 2020

To fully densify a powder compact, we should avoid two things: (i) entrapment of insoluble gases within pores and (ii) entrapment of isolated pores within grains. This paper describes general directions for promoting full densification in view of the above two points. Emphasis is placed on ways to potentially prevent pore entrapment in terms of grain growth control. Currently available techniques that can enhance densification while suppressing grain growth are briefly described, and their major mechanisms are discussed.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Hypo- and Hypereutectic Cast Mg/Mg2Si Composites
Authors: Braszczyńska-Malik Katarzyna N. , Malik Marcin A.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, the microstructure and mechanical properties of two magnesium matrix composites—a hypoeutectic with 1.9 wt% Mg2Si phase and a hypereutectic with 19 wt% Mg2Si compound—were analyzed. The investigated materials were prepared using the gravity casting method. Microstructure analyses of the fabricated composites were carried out by XRD and light microscopy. The tensile and compression strength as well as yield strength of the composites were examined in both uniaxial tensile and compression tests. The microstructure of the hypoeutectic composite was in agreement with the phase diagram and composed of primary Mg dendrites and an Mg–Mg2Si eutectic mixture. For the hypereutectic composite, besides the primary Mg2Si phase and eutectic mixture, additional magnesium dendrites surrounding the Mg2Si compound were observed due to nonequilibrium solidification conditions. The composites exhibited a rise in the examined mechanical properties with an increase in the Mg2Si weight fraction and also a higher tensile and compression strength in comparison to the pure magnesium matrix (cast in the same conditions). Additionally, analyses of fracture surfaces of the composites carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM + EDX) are presented.
Optimal Auxiliary Functions Method for a Pendulum Wrapping on Two Cylinders
Authors: Marinca Vasile , Herisanu Nicolae
Published: August 2020

In the present work, the nonlinear oscillations of a pendulum wrapping on two cylinders is studied by means of a new analytical technique, namely the Optimal Auxiliary Functions Method (OAFM). The equation of motion is derived from the Lagrange’s equation. Analytical solutions and natural frequency of the system are calculated. Our results obtained through this new procedure are compared with numerical ones and a very good agreement was found, which proves the accuracy of the method. The presented numerical examples show that the proposed approach is simple, easy to implement and very accurate.
Exponential Perturbative Expansions and Coordinate Transformations
Authors: Arnal Ana , Casas Fernando , Chiralt Cristina
Published: August 2020

We propose a unified approach for different exponential perturbation techniques used in the treatment of time-dependent quantum mechanical problems, namely the Magnus expansion, the Floquet–Magnus expansion for periodic systems, the quantum averaging technique, and the Lie–Deprit perturbative algorithms. Even the standard perturbation theory fits in this framework. The approach is based on carrying out an appropriate change of coordinates (or picture) in each case, and it can be formulated for any time-dependent linear system of ordinary differential equations. All of the procedures (except the standard perturbation theory) lead to approximate solutions preserving by construction unitarity when applied to the time-dependent Schrödinger equation.
Studies of Conorfamide-Sr3 on Human Voltage-Gated Kv1 Potassium Channel Subtypes
Authors: López-Vera Estuardo , Martínez-Hernández Luis , Aguilar Manuel B. , Carrillo Elisa , Gajewiak Joanna
Published: August 2020

Recently, Conorfamide-Sr3 (CNF-Sr3) was isolated from the venom of Conus spurius and was demonstrated to have an inhibitory concentration-dependent effect on the Shaker K+ channel. The voltage-gated potassium channels play critical functions on cellular signaling, from the regeneration of action potentials in neurons to the regulation of insulin secretion in pancreatic cells, among others. In mammals, there are at least 40 genes encoding voltage-gated K+ channels and the process of expression of some of them may include alternative splicing. Given the enormous variety of these channels and the proven use of conotoxins as tools to distinguish different ligand- and voltage-gated ion channels, in this work, we explored the possible effect of CNF-Sr3 on four human voltage-gated K+ channel subtypes homologous to the Shaker channel. CNF-Sr3 showed a 10 times higher affinity for the Kv1.6 subtype with respect to Kv1.3 (IC50 = 2.7 and 24 μM, respectively) and no significant effect on Kv1.4 and Kv1.5 at 10 µM. Thus, CNF-Sr3 might become a novel molecular probe to study diverse aspects of human Kv1.3 and Kv1.6 channels.
Secondary Metabolites with Nitric Oxide Inhibition from Marine-Derived Fungus Alternaria sp. 5102
Authors: Chen Senhua , Deng Yanlian , Yan Chong , Wu Zhenger , Guo Heng , Liu Lan , Liu Hongju
Published: August 2020

Two new benzofurans, alternabenzofurans A and B (1 and 2) and two new sesquiterpenoids, alternaterpenoids A and B (3 and 4), along with 18 known polyketides (5−22), were isolated from the marine-derived fungus Alternaria sp. 5102. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses (1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESIMS, and ECD) and X-ray crystallography, as well as the modified Mosher’s method. Compounds 2, 3, 5, 7, 9–18, and 20–22 exhibited potent anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of NO in RAW264.7 cells activated by lipopolysaccharide with IC50 values in the range from 1.3 to 41.1 μM. Structure-activity relationships of the secondary metabolites were discussed.
COVID-19 and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Patient Knowledge and Perceptions in a Single Center Survey
Authors: Spagnuolo Rocco , Larussa Tiziana , Iannelli Chiara , Cosco Cristina , Nisticò Eleonora , Manduci Elena , Bruno Amalia , Boccuto Luigi , Abenavoli Ludovico , Luzza Francesco , Doldo Patrizia
Published: August 2020

Background and objectives: Spreading of SARS-CoV-2 infection from China to countries with a higher prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has generated concern among gastroenterologists and patients. The aim of this survey is to evaluate knowledge about clinical importance of COVID-19, disease management, prevention measures, and anxiety level during pandemic among patients with IBD. Material and methods: From 15th March to 15th April 2020, a questionnaire survey was administered to 200 patients with IBD by email or phone application. The questionnaire consisted of five sections: (1) anthropometric, demographic and clinical characteristics, (2) knowledge about clinical importance of COVID-19, (3) IBD management, (4) prevention measures, (5) anxiety level during pandemic. Results: One hundred forty two questionnaires were completed. Ninety-seven patients (68.3%) were males with a mean age of 46 years (SD 13; range 17–76). Fifty-four individuals (38%) were affected by Crohn disease and 88 (62%) by Ulcerative Colitis. Most patients reported high knowledge about clinical importance of COVID-19 (80%), IBD management (72%), and prevention measures (97%). Sixty-two percent of them showed moderate-high level of anxiety. High education level was independently associated with high knowledge about clinical importance of COVID-19 (odds ratio [OR] 5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.49–16.6, p = 0.009) and older age (OR 1, 95%, CI 1.01–1.1, p = 0.01), while the receipt of e-format educational material with low knowledge about clinical importance of COVID-19 (OR 3, 95%, CI 1.08–9.3, p = 0.03). Displaying an active disease appeared to be independently associated with low knowledge of IBD management (OR 5.8, 95% CI 1.4–22.8, p = 0.01) and no variables other than an older age was independently associated with higher level of anxiety (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.009–1.09, p = 0.01). Conclusions: High educational level and aging promote knowledge about clinical importance of COVID-19, while e-format educational material does not. Taken together with findings that an active disease status compromises knowledge of IBD management and the high level of anxiety related to increasing age, these data suggest the need of further supporting patient-oriented strategies in IBD during Covid-19 pandemic.
Nanotechnology-Assisted Isolation and Analysis of Circulating Tumor Cells on Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Cheng Jie , Liu Yang , Zhao Yang , Zhang Lina , Zhang Lingqian , Mao Haiyang , Huang Chengjun
Published: August 2020

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs), a type of cancer cell that spreads from primary tumors into human peripheral blood and are considered as a new biomarker of cancer liquid biopsy. It provides the direction for understanding the biology of cancer metastasis and progression. Isolation and analysis of CTCs offer the possibility for early cancer detection and dynamic prognosis monitoring. The extremely low quantity and high heterogeneity of CTCs are the major challenges for the application of CTCs in liquid biopsy. There have been significant research endeavors to develop efficient and reliable approaches to CTC isolation and analysis in the past few decades. With the advancement of microfabrication and nanomaterials, a variety of approaches have now emerged for CTC isolation and analysis on microfluidic platforms combined with nanotechnology. These new approaches show advantages in terms of cell capture efficiency, purity, detection sensitivity and specificity. This review focuses on recent progress in the field of nanotechnology-assisted microfluidics for CTC isolation and detection. Firstly, CTC isolation approaches using nanomaterial-based microfluidic devices are summarized and discussed. The different strategies for CTC release from the devices are specifically outlined. In addition, existing nanotechnology-assisted methods for CTC downstream analysis are summarized. Some perspectives are discussed on the challenges of current methods for CTC studies and promising research directions.