bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Speed of Response Inhibition and Ability to Suppress a Step in Midlife and Older Adults
Authors: England Derek , Ruddy Kathy L. , Dakin Christopher J. , Schwartz Sarah E. , Butler Blake , Bolton David A. E.
Published: May 2021

In young adults, performance on a test of response inhibition was recently found to be correlated with performance on a reactive balance test where automated stepping responses must occasionally be inhibited. The present study aimed to determine whether this relationship holds true in older adults, wherein response inhibition is typically deficient and the control of postural equilibrium presents a greater challenge. Ten participants (50+ years of age) completed a seated cognitive test (stop signal task) followed by a reactive balance test. Reactive balance was assessed using a modified lean-and-release system where participants were required to step to regain balance following perturbation, or suppress a step if an obstacle was present. The stop signal task is a standardized cognitive test that provides a measure of the speed of response inhibition called the Stop Signal Reaction Time (SSRT). Muscle responses in the legs were compared between conditions where a step was allowed or blocked to quantify response inhibition of the step. The SSRT was significantly related to leg muscle suppression during balance recovery in the stance leg. Thus, participants that were better at inhibiting their responses in the stop signal task were also better at inhibiting an unwanted leg response in favor of grasping a supportive handle. The relationship between a seated cognitive test using finger responses and leg muscle suppression when a step was blocked indicates a context-independent, generalized capacity for response inhibition. This suggests that a simple cognitive test such as the stop signal task could be used clinically to predict an individual’s capacity for adapting balance reactions and fall risk. The present results provide support for future studies, with larger samples, to verify this relationship between stop signal reaction time and leg response during balance recovery.
Intraoperative Computed Tomography-Based Navigation with Augmented Reality for Lateral Approaches to the Spine
Authors: Pojskić Mirza , Bopp Miriam , Saß Benjamin , Kirschbaum Andreas , Nimsky Christopher , Carl Barbara
Published: May 2021

Background. Lateral approaches to the spine have gained increased popularity due to enabling minimally invasive access to the spine, less blood loss, decreased operative time, and less postoperative pain. The objective of the study was to analyze the use of intraoperative computed tomography with navigation and the implementation of augmented reality in facilitating a lateral approach to the spine. Methods. We prospectively analyzed all patients who underwent surgery with a lateral approach to the spine from September 2016 to January 2021 using intraoperative CT applying a 32-slice movable CT scanner, which was used for automatic navigation registration. Sixteen patients, with a median age of 64.3 years, were operated on using a lateral approach to the thoracic and lumbar spine and using intraoperative CT with navigation. Indications included a herniated disc (six patients), tumors (seven), instability following the fracture of the thoracic or lumbar vertebra (two), and spondylodiscitis (one). Results. Automatic registration, applying intraoperative CT, resulted in high accuracy (target registration error: 0.84 ± 0.10 mm). The effective radiation dose of the registration CT scans was 6.16 ± 3.91 mSv. In seven patients, a control iCT scan was performed for resection and implant control, with an ED of 4.51 ± 2.48 mSv. Augmented reality (AR) was used to support surgery in 11 cases, by visualizing the tumor outline, pedicle screws, herniated discs, and surrounding structures. Of the 16 patients, corpectomy was performed in six patients with the implantation of an expandable cage, and one patient underwent discectomy using the XLIF technique. One patient experienced perioperative complications. One patient died in the early postoperative course due to severe cardiorespiratory failure. Ten patients had improved and five had unchanged neurological status at the 3-month follow up. Conclusions. Intraoperative computed tomography with navigation facilitates the application of lateral approaches to the spine for a variety of indications, including fusion procedures, tumor resection, and herniated disc surgery.
Bond Behavior of Carbon Fabric-Reinforced Matrix Composites: Geopolymeric Matrix versus Cementitious Mortar
Authors: Abu Obaida Feras , El-Maaddawy Tamer , El-Hassan Hilal
Published: May 2021

This study aims to examine the potential use of a geopolymeric matrix as a sustainable alternative to commercial mortars in carbon fabric-reinforced matrix composites. Single-lap shear tests were conducted to examine the bond behavior at the fabric-matrix interface. Test parameters included the type of matrix (geopolymeric and cementitious matrices) and the bonded length (50 to 300 mm). The geopolymeric matrix was a blend of fly ash/ground granulated blast furnace slag activated by an alkaline solution of sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide. The bond behavior of the geopolymeric-matrix specimens was characterized and compared to that of similar specimens with a cementitious matrix. The specimens failed due to fabric slippage/debonding at the fabric-matrix interface or fabric rupture. The effective bond lengths of the geopolymeric- and cementitious-matrix specimens were 150 and 170 mm, respectively. The geopolymeric-matrix specimens exhibited higher fabric strains, higher ultimate loads, and a steeper strain profile along the bonded length than those of their cementitious-matrix counterparts. New bond-slip models that characterize the bond behavior at the fabric-matrix interface for geopolymeric- and cementitious-matrix specimens were developed. Both models exhibited equal maximum shear stress of 1.2 MPa. The geopolymeric-matrix model had, however, higher fracture energy and higher slip at maximum shear stress than those of the cementitious matrix model.
Disruption of YY1-EZH2 Interaction Using Synthetic Peptides Inhibits Breast Cancer Development
Authors: Yi Cheng , Li Guangyue , Wang Wenmeng , Sun Yixuan , Zhang Yueling , Zhong Chen , Stovall Daniel B. , Li Dangdang , Shi Jinming , Sui Guangchao
Published: May 2021

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a methyltransferase to mediate lysine 27 trimethylation in histone H3 (i.e., H3K27me3) and repress gene expression. In solid tumors, EZH2 promotes oncogenesis and is considered a therapeutic target. As a transcription factor, Yin Yang 1 (YY1) recruits EZH2 through its oncoprotein binding (OPB) domain to establish gene repression. In this study, we mapped the YY1 protein binding (YPB) domain on EZH2 to a region of 27 amino acids. Both YPB and OPB domain synthetic peptides could disrupt YY1EZH2 interaction, markedly reduce breast cancer cell viability, and efficiently inhibit tumor growth in a xenograft mouse model. We analyzed MDA-MB-231 cells treated with YPB, OPB, and control peptides by chromatin immunoprecipitation DNA sequencing (ChIP-seq) using an antibody against H3K27me3. YPB and OPB treatments altered H3K27me3 on 465 and 1137 genes, respectively, compared to the control. Of these genes, 145 overlapped between the two peptides. Among them, PTENP1, the PTEN pseudogene, showed reduced H3K27me3 signal when treated by either YPB or OPB peptide. Consistently, the two peptides enhanced both PTENP1 and PTEN expression with concomitantly reduced AKT activation. Further studies validated PTENP1′s contribution to the anticancer activity of YPB and OPB peptides.
Influence of Postoperative Changes in Sarcopenia on Long-Term Survival in Non-Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Lee Chungyeop , Park In-Ja , Kim Kyung-Won , Shin Yongbin , Lim Seok-Byung , Kim Chan-Wook , Yoon Yong-Sik , Lee Jong-Lyul , Yu Chang-Sik , Kim Jin-Cheon
Published: May 2021

The effect of perioperative sarcopenic changes on prognosis remains unclear. We conducted a retrospective cohort study with 2333 non-metastatic colorectal cancer patients treated between January 2009 and December 2012 at the Asan Medical Center. The body composition at diagnosis was measured via abdominopelvic computed tomography (CT) using Asan-J software. Patients underwent CT scans preoperatively, as well as at 6 months–1 year and 2–3 years postoperatively. The primary outcome was the association between perioperative sarcopenic changes and survival. According to sarcopenic criteria, 1155 (49.5%), 890 (38.2%), and 893 (38.3%) patients had sarcopenia preoperatively, 6 months–1 year, and 2–3 years postoperatively, respectively. The 5-year overall survival (OS) (95.8% vs. 92.1%, hazard ratio (HR) = 2.234, p < 0.001) and 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) (93.2% vs. 86.2%, HR = 2.251, p < 0.001) rates were significantly lower in patients with preoperative sarcopenia. Both OS and RFS were lower in patients with persistent sarcopenia 2–3 years postoperatively than in those who recovered (OS: 96.2% vs. 90.2%, p = 0.001; RFS: 91.1% vs. 83.9%, p = 0.002). In multivariate analysis, postoperative sarcopenia was confirmed as an independent factor associated with decreased OS and RFS. Pre- and postoperative sarcopenia and changes in the condition during surveillance were associated with oncological outcomes.
Acquired Evolution of Mitochondrial Metabolism Regulated by HNF1B in Ovarian Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yamaguchi Ken , Kitamura Sachiko , Furutake Yoko , Murakami Ryusuke , Yamanoi Koji , Taki Mana , Ukita Masayo , Hamanishi Junzo , Mandai Masaki
Published: May 2021

Clear cell carcinoma (CCC) of the ovary exhibits a unique morphology and clinically malignant behavior. The eosinophilic cytoplasm includes abundant glycogen. Although the growth is slow, the prognosis is poor owing to resistance to conventional chemotherapies. CCC often arises in endometriotic cysts and is accompanied by endometriosis. Based on these characteristics, three clinical questions are considered: why does ovarian cancer, especially CCC and endometrioid carcinoma, frequently occur in endometriotic cysts, why do distinct histological subtypes (CCC and endometrioid carcinoma) arise in the endometriotic cyst, and why does ovarian CCC possess unique characteristics? Mutations in AT-rich interacting domain-containing protein 1A and phosphatidylinositol-4,5-Bisphosphate 3-Kinase Catalytic Subunit alpha genes may contribute to the carcinogenesis of ovarian CCC, whereas hepatocyte nuclear factor-1-beta (HNF1B) plays crucial roles in sculpting the unique characteristics of ovarian CCC through metabolic alterations. HNF1B increases glutathione synthesis, activates anaerobic glycolysis called the Warburg effect, and suppresses mitochondria. These metabolic changes may be induced in stressful environments. Life has evolved to utilize and control energy; eukaryotes require mitochondria to transform oxygen reduction into useful energy. Because mitochondrial function is suppressed in ovarian CCC, these cancer cells probably acquired further metabolic evolution during the carcinogenic process in order to survive stressful environments.
Deciphering miRNA–Target Relationships to Understand miRNA-Mediated Carcinogenesis
Authors: Navarro Alfons
Published: May 2021

We now accept that the non-coding part of the genome is essential for fine-tuning most cellular functions, and that its deregulation drives carcinogenesis [...]
Liver Immune Microenvironment and Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer-Pathogenesis and Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Zeng Xuezhen , Ward Simon E. , Zhou Jingying , Cheng Alfred S. L.
Published: May 2021

A drastic difference exists between the 5-year survival rates of colorectal cancer patients with localized cancer and distal organ metastasis. The liver is the most favorable organ for cancer metastases from the colorectum. Beyond the liver-colon anatomic relationship, emerging evidence highlights the impact of liver immune microenvironment on colorectal liver metastasis. Prior to cancer cell dissemination, hepatocytes secrete multiple factors to recruit or activate immune cells and stromal cells in the liver to form a favorable premetastatic niche. The liver-resident cells including Kupffer cells, hepatic stellate cells, and liver-sinusoidal endothelial cells are co-opted by the recruited cells, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells and tumor-associated macrophages, to establish an immunosuppressive liver microenvironment suitable for tumor cell colonization and outgrowth. Current treatments including radical surgery, systemic therapy, and localized therapy have only achieved good clinical outcomes in a minority of colorectal cancer patients with liver metastasis, which is further hampered by high recurrence rate. Better understanding of the mechanisms governing the metastasis-prone liver immune microenvironment should open new immuno-oncology avenues for liver metastasis intervention.
Deep Learning for the Classification of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma on Histopathological Images
Authors: Steinbuss Georg , Kriegsmann Mark , Zgorzelski Christiane , Brobeil Alexander , Goeppert Benjamin , Dietrich Sascha , Mechtersheimer Gunhild , Kriegsmann Katharina
Published: May 2021

The diagnosis and the subtyping of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) are challenging and require expert knowledge, great experience, thorough morphological analysis, and often additional expensive immunohistological and molecular methods. As these requirements are not always available, supplemental methods supporting morphological-based decision making and potentially entity subtyping are required. Deep learning methods have been shown to classify histopathological images with high accuracy, but data on NHL subtyping are limited. After annotation of histopathological whole-slide images and image patch extraction, we trained and optimized an EfficientNet convolutional neuronal network algorithm on 84,139 image patches from 629 patients and evaluated its potential to classify tumor-free reference lymph nodes, nodal small lymphocytic lymphoma/chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and nodal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The optimized algorithm achieved an accuracy of 95.56% on an independent test set including 16,960 image patches from 125 patients after the application of quality controls. Automatic classification of NHL is possible with high accuracy using deep learning on histopathological images and routine diagnostic applications should be pursued.
Breast Cancer (BC) Is a Window of Opportunity for Smoking Cessation: Results of a Retrospective Analysis of 1234 BC Survivors in Follow-Up Consultation
Authors: Nicolas Marion , Grandal Beatriz , Dubost Emma , Kassara Amyn , Guerin Julien , Toussaint Aullene , Laas Enora , Feron Jean-Guillaume , Fourchotte Virginie , Lecuru Fabrice , Girard Noemie , Coussy Florence , Lavielle Beatrice , Kriegel Irene , Kirova Youlia , Pierga Jean-Yves , Reyal Fabien , Hamy Anne-Sophie
Published: May 2021

Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths in women. Smoking is the principal modifiable risk factor for cancers and has a negative influence on long-term survival. We conducted a retrospective study on consecutive BC survivors seen at follow-up consultations between 3 June and 30 October 2019 at Institut Curie, Paris, France. Smoking behaviors were evaluated prospectively via interviewer-administered questionnaires. The aim of this study was to describe smoking-related patient care at diagnosis and smoking cessation patterns in women with a history of BC. A total of 1234 patients were included in the study. Smoking status at diagnosis was missing from electronic health records in 32% of cases, including 13% of patients who smoke. Only 20% of the 197 patients currently smoking at diagnosis recalled having a discussion about smoking with a healthcare professional. Radiotherapists and surgeons were more likely to talk about complications than other practitioners. The main type of information provided was general advice to stop smoking (n = 110), followed by treatment complications (n = 48), while only five patients were referred to tobaccologists. Since diagnosis, 33% (n = 65) of the patients currently smoking had quit. Patients who quit had a lower alcohol consumption, but no other factor was associated with smoking cessation. The main motivation for tobacco withdrawal was the fear of BC relapse (63%). This study highlights room for improvement in the assessment of smoking behavior. Our data raise important perspectives for considering BC treatment and follow-up as a window of opportunity for smoking cessation.
Novel Target Opportunities in Non-Metastatic Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Gleicher Stephanie , Porter Baylee A. , Nath Disharee , Li Guanqun , Khanna Rakesh , Goldberg Hanan , Kortylewski Marcin , Bratslavsky Gennady , Kotula Leszek
Published: May 2021

Nearly one third of men will incur biochemical recurrence after treatment for localized prostate cancer. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the therapeutic mainstay; however, some patients will transition to a castrate resistant state (castrate resistant prostate cancer, CRPC). Subjects with CRPC may develop symptomatic metastatic disease (mCRPC) and incur mortality several years later. Prior to metastatic disease, however, men acquire non-metastatic CRPC (nmCRPC) which lends the unique opportunity for intervention to delay disease progression and symptoms. This review addresses current therapies for nmCRPC, as well as novel therapeutics and pathway strategies targeting men with nmCRPC.
The Impact of Lanthanum and Zeolite Structure on Hydrocarbon Storage
Authors: Jonsson Rasmus , Ho Phuoc Hoang , Wang Aiyong , Skoglundh Magnus , Olsson Louise
Published: May 2021

Hydrocarbon traps can be used to bridge the temperature gap from the cold start of a vehicle until the exhaust after-treatment catalyst has reached its operating temperature. In this work, we investigate the effect of zeolite structure (ZSM-5, BEA, SSZ-13) and the effect of La addition to H-BEA and H-ZSM-5 on the hydrocarbon storage capacity by temperature-programmed desorption and DRIFT spectroscopy. The results show that the presence of La has a significant effect on the adsorption characteristics of toluene on the BEA-supported La materials. A low loading of La onto zeolite BEA (2% La-BEA) improves not only the toluene adsorption capacity but also the retention of toluene. However, a higher loading of La results in a decrease in the adsorbed amount of toluene, which likely is due to partial blocking of the pore of the support. High loadings of La in BEA result in a contraction of the unit cell of the zeolite as evidenced by XRD. A synergetic effect of having simultaneously different types of hydrocarbons (toluene, propene, and propane) in the feed is found for samples containing ZSM-5, where the desorption temperature of propane increases, and the quantity that desorbed increases by a factor of four. This is found to be due to the interaction between toluene and propane inside the structure of the zeolite.
Visible-Light Enhanced Catalytic Wet Peroxide Oxidation of Natural Organic Matter in the Presence of Al/Fe-Pillared Clay
Authors: Portilla-Delgado Cristian S. , García-Mora Ana M. , Dappozze Frederic , Guillard Chantal , Galeano Luis A.
Published: May 2021

An Al/Fe-pillared clay catalyst (Al/Fe-PILC) prepared from low cost technical-grade reagents has been investigated in the photocatalytic Wet Peroxide Oxidation (photo-CWPO) of dissolved Natural Organic Matter (NOM) under circumneutral pH. The successful pillaring of the layered clay material was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption at −196 °C, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and simultaneous thermal analysis (TGA/DSC). High levels of mineralization of the dissolved organic carbon and color removal of a synthetic NOM surrogate solution were achieved even under natural lab’s lighting and ambient temperature and pressure, whereas the absence of radiation (in dark) was found to strongly affect the performance of the degradation. The photo-CWPO of NOM activated by the Al/Fe-PILC clay catalyst under visible light irradiation (LED lamp, 450 and 550 nm peaks) displayed a DOC mineralization of 72% and color removal of 73% in just 210 min of irradiation at neutral pH, whereas both responses decayed under ultraviolet lightning (λ: 365 nm) to 41% and 58%, respectively. This behavior is ascribed to formation of triplet states of natural organic matter (3NOM*) by absorption of visible light, which seems to synergistically improve the rate-determining step of the heterogeneous Fenton process, namely reduction of Fe3+ into Fe2+ on the surface of the clay catalyst. Interestingly, experiments performed at neutral and pH 3.0 showed very similar efficiencies under visible light irradiation; these findings may really facilitate the application of the photo-CWPO process to assist conventional drinking water treatment plants in the removal of NOM before the typical disinfection by chlorine to produce safer drinking water.
Liver Fibrosis during Antiretroviral Treatment in HIV-Infected Individuals. Truth or Tale?
Authors: Bakasis Athanasios-Dimitrios , Androutsakos Theodoros
Published: May 2021

After the introduction of antiretroviral treatment (ART) back in 1996, the lifespan of people living with HIV (PLWH) has been substantially increased, while the major causes of morbidity and mortality have switched from opportunistic infections and AIDS-related neoplasms to cardiovascular and liver diseases. HIV itself may lead to liver damage and subsequent liver fibrosis (LF) through multiple pathways. Apart from HIV, viral hepatitis, alcoholic and especially non-alcoholic liver diseases have been implicated in liver involvement among PLWH. Another well known cause of hepatotoxicity is ART, raising clinically significant concerns about LF in long-term treatment. In this review we present the existing data and analyze the association of LF with all ART drug classes. Published data derived from many studies are to some extent controversial and therefore remain inconclusive. Among all the antiretroviral drugs, nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, especially didanosine and zidovudine, seem to carry the greatest risk for LF, with integrase strand transfer inhibitors and entry inhibitors having minimal risk. Surprisingly, even though protease inhibitors often lead to insulin resistance, they do not seem to be associated with a significant risk of LF. In conclusion, most ART drugs are safe in long-term treatment and seldom lead to severe LF when no liver-related co-morbidities exist.
Preconditioning or Postconditioning with 8-Br-cAMP-AM Protects the Heart against Regional Ischemia and Reperfusion: A Role for Mitochondrial Permeability Transition
Authors: Khaliulin Igor , Ascione Raimondo , Maslov Leonid N. , Amal Haitham , Suleiman M. Saadeh
Published: May 2021

The cAMP analogue 8-Br-cAMP-AM (8-Br) confers marked protection against global ischaemia/reperfusion of isolated perfused heart. We tested the hypothesis that 8-Br is also protective under clinically relevant conditions (regional ischaemia) when applied either before ischemia or at the beginning of reperfusion, and this effect is associated with the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP). 8-Br (10 μM) was administered to Langendorff-perfused rat hearts for 5 min either before or at the end of 30 min regional ischaemia. Ca2+-induced mitochondria swelling (a measure of MPTP opening) and binding of hexokinase II (HKII) to mitochondria were assessed following the drug treatment at preischaemia. Haemodynamic function and ventricular arrhythmias were monitored during ischaemia and 2 h reperfusion. Infarct size was evaluated at the end of reperfusion. 8-Br administered before ischaemia attenuated ventricular arrhythmias, improved haemodynamic function, and reduced infarct size during ischaemia/reperfusion. Application of 8-Br at the end of ischaemia protected the heart during reperfusion. 8-Br promoted binding of HKII to the mitochondria and reduced Ca2+-induced mitochondria swelling. Thus, 8-Br protects the heart when administered before regional ischaemia or at the beginning of reperfusion. This effect is associated with inhibition of MPTP via binding of HKII to mitochondria, which may underlie the protective mechanism.
Online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Nutrition Workshop for Parents of Children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Feasibility, Acceptability, and Initial Effectiveness
Authors: Ahola Kohut Sara , Martincevic Inez , Turrell Sheri L. , Church Peter C. , Walters Thomas D. , Weiser Natalie , Iuliano Armanda
Published: May 2021

Parents of children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are important members of their healthcare team and influence their child’s adaptation to disease. The primary aim of this research was to test the feasibility and acceptability of a three-session online parent workshop based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and address concerns about eating well and nutrition in IBD. The secondary aim was to explore the initial effectiveness of this workshop in parent reported psychological flexibility, mindfulness, experiential avoidance, cognitive fusion, valued living, and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. We used a single arm pragmatic prospective study design with parents of children attending the IBD program at a tertiary pediatric healthcare centre in Canada. Mixed methods patient reported outcomes were measured at baseline, immediate post participation, and 3 months post participation in the workshop. Thirty-seven parents enrolled in the study and feasibility and acceptability goals were largely met. Parents qualitatively described changes to their parenting, what aspects of the workshop were most helpful, and targeted feedback on how to improve workshop. Findings suggest that providing parents of children with IBD a brief online ACT workshop including nutrition guidance is feasible and leads to changes in parenting behaviours.
Neonates with Maternal Colonization of Carbapenemase-Producing, Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae: A Mini-Review and a Suggested Guide for Preventing Neonatal Infection
Authors: Seesahai Judy , Church Paige Terrien , Asztalos Elizabeth , Eng-Chong Melanee , Arbus Jo , Banihani Rudaina
Published: May 2021

Carbapenemase-producing, carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CP-CRE) are highly drug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. They include New Delhi metallo-ß-lactamase (NDM)-producing carbapenemase (50.4% of all species in Ontario). Antibiotic challenges for resistant bacteria in neonates pose challenges of unknown dosing and side effects. We report two antenatally diagnosed CP-CRE colonization scenarios with the NDM 1 gene. The case involves extreme preterm twins who had worsening respiratory distress at birth requiring ventilator support, with the first twin also having cardiovascular instability. They were screened for CP-CRE, and a polymyxin antibiotic commenced. In the delivery room, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and the follow-up clinic, in collaboration with the interdisciplinary group, contact precautions and isolation procedures were instituted. None of the infants exhibited infection with CP-CRE. Consolidating knowledge with regard to CP-CRE and modifying human behavior associated with its spread can mitigate potential negative consequences. This relates to now and later, when travel and prolific human to human contact resumes, from endemic countries, after the current COVID-19 pandemic. Standardized efforts to curb the acquisition of this infection would be judicious given the challenges of treatment and continued emerging antibiotic resistance. Simple infection control measures involving contact precautions, staff education and parental cohorting can be useful and cost-effective in preventing transmission. Attention to NICU specific measures, including screening of at-risk mothers (invitro fertilization conception) and their probands, careful handling of breastmilk, judicious antibiotic choice and duration of treatment, is warranted. What does this study add? CP-CRE is a nosocomial infection with increasing incidence globally, and a serious threat to public health, making it likely that these cases will present with greater frequency to the NICU team. Only a few similar cases have been reported in the neonatal literature. Current published guidelines provide a framework for general hospital management. Still, they are not specific to the NICU experience and the need to manage the parents’ exposure and the infants. This article provides a holistic framework for managing confirmed or suspected cases of CP-CRE from the antenatal care through the NICU and into the follow-up clinic targeted at preventing or containing the spread of CP-CRE.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Seasonal Variations in Childhood and Adolescent Growth: Experience of Pediatric Endocrine Clinics
Authors: Han Jin-Ah , Chung Yae-Eun , Chung In-Hyuk , Hong Yong-Hee , Chung Sochung
Published: May 2021

Background: Children experience seasonal variations in growth whereby height increases most in spring and least in autumn, and weight increases least in spring and most in autumn. We hypothesized that activity restriction caused by efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) would result in increased body mass index (BMI) in children, differing from conventional seasonal growth variations. Methods: We included 169 children who visited endocrine clinics of three hospitals in Korea at regular intervals under the same conditions for two years. Visit dates were D1 (January, 2019), D2 (July, 2019), D3 (January, 2020) before the COVID-19 outbreak, and D4 (July, 2020) during the pandemic. Differences in the z-score for height (HT), weight (WT), and BMI among time points and between spring seasons (i.e., S1–S3) were compared. Results: There were significant differences in BMIz among time points, which decreased from D1–D2 and increased from D2–D3 and D3–D4. WTz significantly increased from D2–D3 and D3–D4. BMIz values of S1 (spring 2019) and S3 (spring 2020) were −0.05 and 0.16, respectively, showing significant differences. WTz values between S1 and S3 were significantly different (−0.02 vs. 0.13). Conclusions: In 2019, there were conventional seasonal variations in BMIz, which declined in spring and increased in autumn, while in 2020, BMIz increased even in spring. The COVID-19 pandemic may have affected seasonal variations in the growth of children attending endocrine clinics.
Molecular Changes Underlying Genistein Treatment of Wound Healing: A Review
Authors: Čoma Matúš , Lachová Veronika , Mitrengová Petra , Gál Peter
Published: May 2021

Estrogen deprivation is one of the major factors responsible for many age-related processes including poor wound healing in postmenopausal women. However, the reported side-effects of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) have precluded broad clinical administration. Therefore, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) have been developed to overcome the detrimental side effects of ERT on breast and/or uterine tissues. The use of natural products isolated from plants (e.g., soy) may represent a promising source of biologically active compounds (e.g., genistein) as efficient alternatives to conventional treatment. Genistein as natural SERM has the unique ability to selectively act as agonist or antagonist in a tissue-specific manner, i.e., it improves skin repair and simultaneously exerts anti-cancer and chemopreventive properties. Hence, we present here a wound healing phases-based review of the most studied naturally occurring SERM.
Structural and Functional Properties of Fluorinated Silica Hybrid Barrier Layers on Flexible Polymeric Foil
Authors: Startek Kamila , Szczurek Anna , Tran Thi Ngoc Lam , Krzak Justyna , Bachmatiuk Alicja , Lukowiak Anna
Published: May 2021

The reported work was focused on sol–gel-derived organically modified and fluorinated silica coatings deposited on elastic polymeric foil. The structure and topography of the coatings were tested by infrared spectroscopy and microscopic studies. The functional properties were determined using thermal analysis, surface analysis, and oxygen permeability tests. The barrier feature of the investigated materials against oxygen was correlated with the properties of the coatings. The hybrid (organic–inorganic) structure of the coatings was proven, demonstrating the presence of a silica network modified with alkyl and fluoroalkyl groups since precursors with the isooctyl group or different lengths of the fluoroalkyl chains were used for the syntheses. The coatings were free of defects and had a smooth surface except for the sample containing the longest fluoroalkyl chain (perfluorododecyl group), which showed a wrinkle-like surface. The hydrophobic character of the coatings increased, whereas the oxygen permeation coefficient values decreased (reaching a fourfold lower coefficient in comparison to the bare substrate) with a higher content of the fluorinated carbon atoms in the structure. The results were enriched by the information from the thermomechanical analysis as well as nanoindentation and scratch tests giving values of the glass transition temperature, thermal expansion coefficient, coatings adhesion, and hardness of the investigated systems.
High-Temperature Oxidation of Cr-Coated Resistance Upset Welds Made from E110 Alloy
Authors: Sidelev Dmitrii , Ruchkin Sergey , Kashkarov Egor
Published: May 2021

The resistance upset welds (RUW) made from E110 alloy without and with Cr coatings were oxidized in air atmosphere at 1100 °C for 2, 10 and 30 min. The cross-section microstructure, elemental composition and hardness were studied before and after oxidation using optical and scanning electron microscopy, and indentations in welding region. The RUW welding does not noticeably change oxidation kinetics of E110 alloy. The most crucial effect has surface non-regularities formed after welding, which prevent uniform coating deposition on full surface of welded cladding tube and end plug. Cr coating deposition can strongly reduce oxidation of welded E110 alloy, while additional post-processing treatment should be applied to improve surface morphology after RUW welding. Several suggestions favorable to development of ATF Zr-based claddings using Cr coating deposition on welded nuclear rods were discussed.
Heterogeneous Bonding of PMMA and Double-Sided Polished Silicon Wafers through H2O Plasma Treatment for Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Chiang Chao-Ching , Immanuel Philip Nathaniel , Chiu Yi-Hsiung , Huang Song-Jeng
Published: May 2021

In this work we report on a rapid, easy-to-operate, lossless, room temperature heterogeneous H2O plasma treatment process for the bonding of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and double-sided polished (DSP) silicon substrates by for utilization in sandwich structured microfluidic devices. The heterogeneous bonding of the sandwich structure produced by the H2O plasma is analyzed, and the effect of heterogeneous bonding of free radicals and high charge electrons (e−) in the formed plasma which causes a passivation phenomenon during the bonding process investigated. The PMMA and silicon surface treatments were performed at a constant radio frequency (RF) power and H2O flow rate. Changing plasma treatment time and powers for both processes were investigated during the experiments. The gas flow rate was controlled to cause ionization of plasma and the dissociation of water vapor from hydrogen (H) atoms and hydroxyl (OH) bonds, as confirmed by optical emission spectroscopy (OES). The OES results show the relative intensity peaks emitted by the OH radicals, H and oxygen (O). The free energy is proportional to the plasma treatment power and gas flow rate with H bonds forming between the adsorbed H2O and OH groups. The gas density generated saturated bonds at the interface, and the discharge energy that strengthened the OH-e− bonds. This method provides an ideal heterogeneous bonding technique which can be used to manufacture new types of microfluidic devices.
Real-Time Performance and Response Latency Measurements of Linux Kernels on Single-Board Computers
Authors: Adam George K.
Published: May 2021

This research performs real-time measurements of Linux kernels with real-time support provided by the PREEMPT_RT patch on embedded development devices such as BeagleBoard and Raspberry Pi. The experimental measurements of the Linux real-time performance on these devices are based on real-time software modules developed specifically for the purposes of this research. Taking in consideration the constraints of the specific hardware platforms under investigation, new measurements software was developed. The measurement algorithms are designed upon response and periodic task models. Measurements investigate latencies of real-time applications at user and kernel space. An outcome of this research is that the proposed performance measurements approach and evaluation methodology could be applied and deployed on other Linux-based boards and platforms. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that the PREEMPT_RT patch overall improves the Linux kernel real-time performance compared to the standard one. The reduced worst-case latencies on such devices running Linux with real-time support could make them potentially more suitable for real-time applications as long as a latency value of about 160 μs, as an upper bound, is an acceptable safety margin.
16S rRNA–Based Analysis Reveals Differences in the Bacterial Community Present in Tissues of Choromytilus chorus (Mytilidae, Bivalvia) Grown in an Estuary and a Bay in Southern Chile
Authors: Valenzuela Tamara , Rilling Joaquin I. , Larama Giovanni , Acuña Jacquelinne J. , Campos Marco , Inostroza Nitza G. , Araya Macarena , Altamirano Katherine , Fujiyoshi So , Yarimizu Kyoko , Maruyama Fumito , Jorquera Milko A.
Published: May 2021

Microbiota associated with bivalves have drawn considerable attention because studies have suggested their relevance to the fitness and growth of marine bivalves. Although the mussel Choromytilus chorus is a valuable resource for Chilean aquaculture and fisheries, its microbiota is still unknown. In this study, the composition and predicted functions of the bacterial community in tissues of C. chorus specimens grown in an estuary (Nehuentue) and a bay (Hueihue) were investigated. Using 16S rRNA genes as targets, the bacterial abundance in tissues was estimated by quantitative PCR and sequenced via Illumina MiSeq. The abundances of bacteria ranged from 103 to 105 copies of 16S rRNA genes g−1 tissue. In the Nehuentue estuary, the bacterial communities in the tissues were dominated by the Tenericutes phylum, whereas the Tenericutes and Proteobacteria phyla dominated in mussels from Hueihue Bay. Higher numbers of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were observed in tissues from the Nehuentue Estuary than in those from Hueihue Bay. Differences in bacterial community compositions in tissues between both locations were confirmed by nonmetric multidimensional scaling (nMDS) and Venn diagram analysis. In addition, linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) revealed that the Mollicutes class and Actynomycetales order were key phylotypes in tissues from the Nehuentue Estuary and Hueihue Bay, respectively. Our analysis also predicted a high abundance of sequences assigned to heterotrophy; however, relatively high functional diversity was also found in tissues from Hueihue Bay. This work represents our first attempt to elucidate the C. chorus microbiota in contrasting Chilean aquatic environments.
A Comprehensive Machine Learning Framework for the Exact Prediction of the Age of Onset in Familial and Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Vélez Jorge I. , Samper Luiggi A. , Arcos-Holzinger Mauricio , Espinosa Lady G. , Isaza-Ruget Mario A. , Lopera Francisco , Arcos-Burgos Mauricio
Published: May 2021

Machine learning (ML) algorithms are widely used to develop predictive frameworks. Accurate prediction of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) age of onset (ADAOO) is crucial to investigate potential treatments, follow-up, and therapeutic interventions. Although genetic and non-genetic factors affecting ADAOO were elucidated by other research groups and ours, the comprehensive and sequential application of ML to provide an exact estimation of the actual ADAOO, instead of a high-confidence-interval ADAOO that may fall, remains to be explored. Here, we assessed the performance of ML algorithms for predicting ADAOO using two AD cohorts with early-onset familial AD and with late-onset sporadic AD, combining genetic and demographic variables. Performance of ML algorithms was assessed using the root mean squared error (RMSE), the R-squared (R2), and the mean absolute error (MAE) with a 10-fold cross-validation procedure. For predicting ADAOO in familial AD, boosting-based ML algorithms performed the best. In the sporadic cohort, boosting-based ML algorithms performed best in the training data set, while regularization methods best performed for unseen data. ML algorithms represent a feasible alternative to accurately predict ADAOO with little human intervention. Future studies may include predicting the speed of cognitive decline in our cohorts using ML.
A Model for Bias Potential Effects on the Effective Langmuir Adsorption–Desorption Processes
Authors: Evangelista Luiz Roberto , Barbero Giovanni , Alexe-Ionescu Anca Luiza
Published: May 2021

We discuss the foundations of a model based on an extension of the Langmuir approximation for the adsorption–desorption phenomena, in which the phenomenological coefficients depend on the bias potential, in addition to their dependence on the adsorption energy. The theoretical analysis focuses on the effect of these effective coefficients on the electrical response of an electrolytic cell to an external electric field, as predicted by the Poisson–Nernst–Planck model. Kinetic balance equations govern the current densities on the electrodes when the adsorption phenomenon occurs in the presence of an electric bias. The influence of the phenomenological parameters entering the model, as well as of the symmetry of the cell on the cyclic voltammetry, is investigated.
Synthesis of Induction Brazing System Control Based on Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Grozdanov Dragomir , Gilev Bogdan , Hinov Nikolay
Published: May 2021

This paper considers the synthesis of control of an electro-technological system for induction brazing and its relationship with the guarantee of the parameters and the quality of this industrial process. Based on a created and verified 3D model of the electromagnetic system, the requirements to the system of power electronic converters for obtaining brazing between different common combinations of materials are determined. After processing and summarizing the results, an approach for automatic recognition of the type of material to be brazed is proposed and researched, as well as switching between different controller settings in order to achieve optimal performance and ease the operator. The advantages of using such an approach based on the use of artificial intelligence techniques are considered, including guidelines for its application and development in industrial systems with induction heating.
Grover on PIPO
Authors: Jang Kyungbae , Song Gyeongju , Kwon Hyeokdong , Uhm Siwoo , Kim Hyunji , Lee Wai-Kong , Seo Hwajeong
Published: May 2021

The emergence of quantum computers is threatening the security of cryptography through various quantum algorithms. Among them, the Grover search algorithm is known to be efficient in accelerating brute force attacks on block cipher algorithms. To utilize the Grover’s algorithm for brute force attacks, block ciphers must be implemented in quantum circuits. In this paper, we present optimized quantum circuits of the SPN (Substitution Permutation Network) structured lightweight block cipher, namely the PIPO block cipher. In particular, the compact design of quantum circuits for the 8-bit Sbox is investigated. These optimization techniques are used to implement other cryptographic operations as quantum circuits. Finally, we evaluate quantum resources of Grover search algorithm for the PIPO block cipher in ProejctQ, a quantum simulator provided by IBM.
Comparison of Soil Properties, Understory Vegetation Species Diversities and Soil Microbial Diversities between Chinese Fir Plantation and Close-to-Natural Forest
Authors: Hou Lingyu , Zhang Yongqiang , Li Zhichao , Shao Guodong , Song Liguo , Sun Qiwu
Published: May 2021

With the continuous increase in plantation areas, the reduction of natural forest areas, and the unreasonable management of plantations by human beings, the service function of forest ecosystems has gradually reduced. Therefore, close-to-natural forestry has become important for the sustainable development of modern forestry. However, the differences in soil properties, enzyme activities, microbial diversities, and undergrowth vegetation species diversities have not been systematically explained for Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata). How do these indicators interact? The purpose of this paper was to study the difference in soil properties and biodiversity in different aged Chinese fir plantations and close-to-natural forests to explore their interactions and to provide direction for close-to-nature management. The results showed that the above indicators were significantly different in different aged Chinese fir plantations, soil pH, organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium, alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen, available phosphorus concentrations, and urease activities in close-to-natural forests were significantly higher than plantations. It is worth mentioning that the richness of undergrowth vegetation species diversity (especially shrubs) and soil microbial diversities (especially fungi) in the close-to-natural forests were obviously higher than those in plantations. The correlation analysis results showed that the diversity of shrub species with respect to soil properties presented a higher correlation than herb species, the diversity of fungi with respect to soil properties presented a higher correlation than that observed for bacteria, and the diversity of fungi were significantly correlated with the diversity of undergrowth vegetation species diversities, but the correlation between bacteria and undergrowth vegetation species diversities was not significant. Our results suggest that the above factors are fundamental factors for the transformation of Chinese fir plantations to close-to-natural forests. To realize close-to-natural forestry, we must change the tree structure, combine the difference of those factors in different aged plantations, restore undergrowth vegetation species diversity, and thus improve microbial diversity and increase decomposition, transformation, and improvement of soil properties.
Broad-Scale Surface and Atmospheric Conditions during Large Fires in South-Central Chile
Authors: McWethy David B. , Garreaud René D. , Holz Andrés , Pederson Gregory T.
Published: May 2021

The unprecedented size of the 2017 wildfires that burned nearly 600,000 hectares of central Chile highlight a need to better understand the climatic conditions under which large fires develop. Here we evaluate synoptic atmospheric conditions at the surface and free troposphere associated with anomalously high (active) versus low (inactive) months of area burned in south-central Chile (ca. 32–41° S) from the Chilean Forest Service (CONAF) record of area burned from 1984–2018. Active fire months are correlated with warm surface temperatures, dry conditions, and the presence of a circumpolar assemblage of high-pressure systems located ca. 40°–60° S. Additionally, warm surface temperatures associated with active fire months are linked to reduced strength of cool, onshore westerly winds and an increase in warm, downslope Andean Cordillera easterly winds. Episodic warm downslope winds and easterly wind anomalies superimposed on long-term warming and drying trends will continue to create conditions that promote large fires in south-central Chile. Identifying the mechanisms responsible for easterly wind anomalies and determining whether this trend is strengthening due to synoptic-scale climatic changes such as the poleward shift in Southern Hemisphere westerly winds will be critical for anticipating future large fire activity in south-central Chile.