bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence Evolution in Smart Buildings for Energy Efficiency
Authors: Farzaneh Hooman , Malehmirchegini Ladan , Bejan Adrian , Afolabi Taofeek , Mulumba Alphonce , Daka Precious P.
Published: January 2021

The emerging concept of smart buildings, which requires the incorporation of sensors and big data (BD) and utilizes artificial intelligence (AI), promises to usher in a new age of urban energy efficiency. By using AI technologies in smart buildings, energy consumption can be reduced through better control, improved reliability, and automation. This paper is an in-depth review of recent studies on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in smart buildings through the concept of a building management system (BMS) and demand response programs (DRPs). In addition to elaborating on the principles and applications of the AI-based modeling approaches widely used in building energy use prediction, an evaluation framework is introduced and used for assessing the recent research conducted in this field and across the major AI domains, including energy, comfort, design, and maintenance. Finally, the paper includes a discussion on the open challenges and future directions of research on the application of AI in smart buildings.
Drilling Fluid and Cement Slurry Design for Naturally Fractured Reservoirs
Authors: Gaurina-Međimurec Nediljka , Pašić Borivoje , Mijić Petar , Medved Igor
Published: January 2021

For years, drilling engineers have been faced with the challenge of drilling wells through naturally fractured reservoirs that are present around the world. During drilling, the pressure at the bottomhole of a well is frequently intentionally higher than formation pressure, which can result in the loss of mud in surrounding rocks. During well cementing, the bottomhole pressure is even higher than it is during drilling, because the cement slurry density is higher than the density of the mud. Therefore, if natural or induced fractures in the surrounding rocks are not plugged during drilling, the cement slurry can be lost to them, reducing their permeability which is undesirable in the case of a pay zone. To prevent the loss of circulation and the related consequences, it is necessary to apply good drilling and cementing practices and to use adequate methods and carefully selected materials for plugging the loss zones. The aim of this article is to give an overview of the preventive and corrective methods that can be applied in drilling and cementing through fractured zones as well as improvements in drilling and cementing technology to avoid lost circulation issues (e.g., aerated drilling fluid, casing while drilling, managed pressure drilling, expandable tubulars, lightweight cement slurries, etc.).
Agro-Physiologic Responses and Stress-Related Gene Expression of Four Doubled Haploid Wheat Lines under Salinity Stress Conditions
Authors: Al-Ashkar Ibrahim , Romdhane Walid Ben , El-Said Rania A. , Ghazy Abdelhalim , Attia Kotb , Al-Doss Abdullah
Published: January 2021

Salinity majorly hinders horizontal and vertical expansion in worldwide wheat production. Productivity can be enhanced using salt-tolerant wheat genotypes. However, the assessment of salt tolerance potential in bread wheat doubled haploid lines (DHL) through agro-physiological traits and stress-related gene expression analysis could potentially minimize the cost of breeding programs and be a powerful way for the selection of the most salt-tolerant genotype. We used an extensive set of agro-physiologic parameters and salt-stress-related gene expressions. Multivariate analysis was used to detect phenotypic and genetic variations of wheat genotypes more closely under salinity stress, and we analyzed how these strategies effectively balance each other. Four doubled haploid lines (DHLs) and the check cultivar (Sakha93) were evaluated in two salinity levels (without and 150 mM NaCl) until harvest. The five genotypes showed reduced growth under 150 mM NaCl; however, the check cultivar (Sakha93) died at the beginning of the flowering stage. Salt stress induced reduction traits, except the canopy temperature and initial electrical conductivity, which was found in each of the five genotypes, with the greatest decline occurring in the check cultivar (Sakha-93) and the least decline in DHL2. The genotypes DHL21 and DHL5 exhibited increased expression rate of salt-stress-related genes (TaNHX1, TaHKT1, and TaCAT1) compared with DHL2 and Sakha93 under salt stress conditions. Principle component analysis detection of the first two components explains 70.78% of the overall variation of all traits (28 out of 32 traits). A multiple linear regression model and path coefficient analysis showed a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.93. The models identified two interpretive variables, number of spikelets, and/or number of kernels, which can be unbiased traits for assessing wheat DHLs under salinity stress conditions, given their contribution and direct impact on the grain yield.
Expression of Gallus Epidermal Growth Factor (gEGF) with Food-Grade Lactococcus lactis Expression System and Its Biological Effects on Broiler Chickens
Authors: Zhou Yu , Chen Pinpin , Shi Shuai , Li Xiaowen , Shi Deshi , Zhou Zutao , Li Zili , Xiao Yuncai
Published: January 2021

As a multifunctional polypeptide, epidermal growth factor (EGF) increases growth performance or enhances resistance to diseases in commercial broilers under adverse conditions. In this study, a recombinant Lactococcus lactis was established to produce the secretory form of bioactive gEGF. The results of in vitro testing showed that gEGF promoted the proliferation of chicken embryo fibroblast cells. A total of 63 5-day-old broiler chickens were evenly divided into three groups and treated with either M17 medium (the control group), supernatant of LL-pNZ8149 fermentation product (the P-LL group), or supernatant of LL-pNZ8149-gEGF fermentation product (the gEGF group). In two weeks, many measurements of growth, immunity and the intestines were significantly higher in the gEGF group than those in the control and the P-LL groups. Our study showed that the bioactive gEGF could be expressed with Lactococcus lactis expression system with the potential to enhance growth performance, immune function, and intestinal development in broiler chickens.
Synthesis of N-Doped TiO2 for Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Atmospheric NOx
Authors: Khan Tamal , Bari Gazi , Kang Hui-Ju , Lee Tae-Gyu , Park Jae-Woo , Hwang Hyun , Hossain Sayed , Mun Jong , Suzuki Norihiro , Fujishima Akira , Kim Jong-Ho , Shon Ho , Jun Young-Si
Published: January 2021

Titanium oxide (TiO2) is a potential photocatalyst for removing toxic NOx from the atmosphere. Its practical application is, however, significantly limited by its low absorption into visible light and a high degree of charge recombination. The overall photocatalytic activity of TiO2 remains too low since it can utilize only about 4–5% of solar energy. Nitrogen doping into the TiO2 lattice takes advantage of utilizing a wide range of solar radiation by increasing the absorption capability towards the visible light region. In this work, N-doped TiO2, referred to as TC, was synthesized by a simple co-precipitation of tri-thiocyanuric acid (TCA) with P25 followed by heat treatment at 550 degrees C. The resulting nitrogen doping increased the visible-light absorption and enhanced the separation/transfer of photo-excited charge carriers by capturing holes by reduced titanium ions. As a result, TC samples exhibited excellent photocatalytic activities of 59% and 51% in NO oxidation under UV and visible light irradiation, in which the optimum mass ratio of TCA to P25 was found to be 10.
Facile Aqueous-Phase Synthesis of Stabilizer-Free Photocatalytic Nanoparticles
Authors: Lee Hyein , Kim Sung-Soo , Bhang Suk Ho , Yu Taekyung
Published: January 2021

One of the challenges of using nanoparticles as catalysts is the presence of reaction-disturbing stabilizers that surround the nanoparticle surface. In this report, we demonstrate a method to synthesize stabilizer-free bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) nanoparticles to increase photocatalytic activity. This synthesis method is remarkably simple, involving only BiCl3 and deionized water. After heating an aqueous solution containing BiCl3, plate-shaped BiOCl nanoparticles were formed. The stabilizer-free BiOCl nanoplates exhibited higher photocatalytic activities compared to polyvinylpyrrolidone- and polyethyleneimine-stabilized nanoplates for the degradation of methylene blue.
Chalcogen-Nitrogen Bond: Insights into a Key Chemical Motif
Authors: Bortoli Marco , Madabeni Andrea , Nogara Pablo Andrei , Omage Folorunsho B. , Ribaudo Giovanni , Zeppilli Davide , Rocha Joao B. T. , Orian Laura
Published: January 2021

Chalcogen-nitrogen chemistry deals with systems in which sulfur, selenium, or tellurium is linked to a nitrogen nucleus. This chemical motif is a key component of different functional structures, ranging from inorganic materials and polymers, to rationally designed catalysts, to bioinspired molecules and enzymes. The formation of a selenium–nitrogen bond, typically occurring upon condensation of an amine and the unstable selenenic acid, often leading to intramolecular cyclizations, and its disruption, mainly promoted by thiols, are rather common events in organic Se-catalyzed processes. In this work, focusing on examples taken from selenium organic chemistry and biochemistry, the selenium–nitrogen bond is described, and its strength and reactivity are quantified using accurate computational methods applied to model molecular systems. The intermediate strength of the Se–N bond, which can be tuned to necessity, gives rise to significant trends when comparing it to the stronger S– and weaker Te–N bonds, reaffirming also in this context the peculiar and valuable role of selenium in chemistry and life.
Changes of Pd Oxidation State in Pd/Al2O3 Catalysts Using Modulated Excitation DRIFTS
Authors: Chiarello Gian Luca , Lu Ye , Agote-Arán Miren , Pellegrini Riccardo , Ferri Davide
Published: January 2021

Infrared spectroscopy is typically not used to establish the oxidation state of metal-based catalysts. In this work, we show that the baseline of spectra collected in diffuse reflectance mode of a series of Pd/Al2O3 samples of increasing Pd content varies significantly and reversibly under alternate pulses of CO or H2 and O2. Moreover, these baseline changes are proportional to the Pd content in Pd/Al2O3 samples exhibiting comparable Pd particle size. Similar measurements by X-ray absorption spectroscopy on a different 2 wt.% Pd/Al2O3 confirm that the baseline changes reflect the reversible reduction-oxidation of Pd. Hence, we demonstrate that changes in oxidation state of metal-based catalysts can be determined using diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and that this behavior is part of the spectral changes that are returned by experiments under operando conditions.
Alteration of Neural Stem Cell Functions in Ataxia and Male Sterility Mice: A Possible Role of β-Tubulin Glutamylation in Neurodegeneration
Authors: Sheikh Abdullah Md. , Yano Shozo , Tabassum Shatera , Omura Koji , Araki Asuka , Mitaki Shingo , Ito Yoshie , Huang Shuai , Nagai Atsushi
Published: January 2021

Ataxia and Male Sterility (AMS) is a mutant mouse strain that contains a missense mutation in the coding region of Nna1, a gene that encodes a deglutamylase. AMS mice exhibit early cerebellar Purkinje cell degeneration and an ataxic phenotype in an autosomal recessive manner. To understand the underlying mechanism, we generated neuronal stem cell (NSC) lines from wild-type (NMW7), Nna1 mutation heterozygous (NME), and Nna1 mutation homozygous (NMO1) mouse brains. The NNA1 levels were decreased, and the glutamylated tubulin levels were increased in NMO1 cultures as well as in the cerebellum of AMS mice at both 15 and 30 days of age. However, total β-tubulin protein levels were not altered in the AMS cerebellum. In NMO1 neurosphere cultures, β-tubulin protein levels were increased without changes at the transcriptional level. NMO1 grew faster than other NSC lines, and some of the neurospheres were attached to the plate after 3 days. Immunostaining revealed that SOX2 and nestin levels were decreased in NMO1 neurospheres and that the neuronal differentiation potentials were reduced in NMO1 cells compared to NME or NMW7 cells. These results demonstrate that the AMS mutation decreased the NNA1 levels and increased glutamylation in the cerebellum of AMS mice. The observed changes in glutamylation might alter NSC properties and the neuron maturation process, leading to Purkinje cell death in AMS mice.
Transarterial Radioembolization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Liver-Dominant Hepatic Colorectal Cancer Metastases, and Cholangiocarcinoma Using Yttrium90 Microspheres: Eight-Year Single-Center Real-Life Experience
Authors: Pellegrinelli Julie , Chevallier Olivier , Manfredi Sylvain , Dygai-Cochet Inna , Tabouret-Viaud Claire , Nodari Guillaume , Ghiringhelli François , Riedinger Jean-Marc , Popoff Romain , Vrigneaud Jean-Marc , Cochet Alexandre , Aho Serge , Latournerie Marianne , Loffroy Romaric
Published: January 2021

Liver tumors are common and may be unamenable to surgery or ablative treatments. Consequently, other treatments have been devised. To assess the safety and efficacy of transarterial radioembolization (TARE) with Yttrium-90 for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), liver-dominant hepatic colorectal cancer metastases (mCRC), and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), performed according to current recommendations, we conducted a single-center retrospective study in 70 patients treated with TARE (HCC, n = 44; mCRC, n = 20; CCA, n = 6). Safety and toxicity were assessed using the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria. Treatment response was evaluated every 3 months on imaging studies using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) or mRECIST criteria. Overall survival and progression-free survival were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. The median delivered dose was 1.6 GBq, with SIR-Spheres® or TheraSphere® microspheres. TARE-related grade 3 adverse events affected 17.1% of patients. Median follow-up was 32.1 months. Median progression-free survival was 5.6 months and median overall time from TARE to death was 16.1 months and was significantly shorter in men. Progression-free survival was significantly longer in women (HR, 0.49; 95%CI, 0.26–0.90; p = 0.031). Risk of death or progression increased with the number of systemic chemotherapy lines. TARE can be safe and effective in patients with intermediate- or advanced-stage HCC, CCA, or mCRC refractory or intolerant to appropriate treatments.
Animal Models of Depression: What Can They Teach Us about the Human Disease?
Authors: Becker Maria , Pinhasov Albert , Ornoy Asher
Published: January 2021

Depression is apparently the most common psychiatric disease among the mood disorders affecting about 10% of the adult population. The etiology and pathogenesis of depression are still poorly understood. Hence, as for most human diseases, animal models can help us understand the pathogenesis of depression and, more importantly, may facilitate the search for therapy. In this review we first describe the more common tests used for the evaluation of depressive-like symptoms in rodents. Then we describe different models of depression and discuss their strengths and weaknesses. These models can be divided into several categories: genetic models, models induced by mental acute and chronic stressful situations caused by environmental manipulations (i.e., learned helplessness in rats/mice), models induced by changes in brain neuro-transmitters or by specific brain injuries and models induced by pharmacological tools. In spite of the fact that none of the models completely resembles human depression, most animal models are relevant since they mimic many of the features observed in the human situation and may serve as a powerful tool for the study of the etiology, pathogenesis and treatment of depression, especially since only few patients respond to acute treatment. Relevance increases by the fact that human depression also has different facets and many possible etiologies and therapies.
SARS-CoV-2 in Mexico: Beyond Detection Methods, Scope and Limitations
Authors: Martinez-Liu Cynthia , Martínez-Acuña Natalia , Arellanos-Soto Daniel , Galan-Huerta Kame , Lozano-Sepulveda Sonia , Martínez-Guzmán María del Carmen , Rivas-Estilla Ana Maria
Published: January 2021

The new coronavirus that was first identified in December 2019 in Wuhan China, now called SARS-CoV-2, which causes the disease called COVID-19, has spread from China to the entire world in a few months. Due to its contagious potential (R0: 5.7) and because there is still no effective treatment to stop the infection, and a vaccine for prevention it is not yet available to the general population, COVID-19 is currently considered a global health problem. The need to implement sensitive methods for the identification of individuals with COVID-19 has led to the development of different molecular and immunological tests. The importance of a timely and accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the course of the pandemic. The interpretation of the results obtained by each test as well as the factors that affect these results have not been fully described. In this review, we describe and analyze the different SARS-CoV-2 detection methods that have been performed in Mexico and are available worldwide, outlining their strengths and weaknesses. Further, a broader perspective of the correct use and interpretation of the results obtained with these diagnostic tools is proposed to improve the containment strategy and identify the true impact of the pandemic.
The Challenge of Educating Purposeful Teachers in Finland
Authors: Kuusisto Elina , Tirri Kirsi
Published: January 2021

This article discusses the challenges of educating teachers in Finland. As a goal in teacher education for the 21st century we propose the purposeful teacher, referring to a teacher who has a long-term moral commitment to serve students, the school community and society. Our data collected from student (N = 912) and practising (N = 77) teachers yielded information on the purposes they identified as important in their lives. The survey included quantitative instruments and open- ended questions. The teachers identified happiness, relationships, work and self-actualisation as the most important contents of their aspirations. All the content categories could be understood as potential purposes in that the benefit extended beyond the teachers themselves. However, almost half of the student teachers (46%) and over half of teachers (55%) revealed only self-orientation. Less than half of them (43%, 36%, respectively) showed a beyond-the-self orientation, which is indicative of a purposeful teacher. Among the practising teachers, teaching appeared to be mainly a mediating factor in realising their purposes or aspirations. These results have implications related to contemporary teacher education in Finland. Both pre- and in-service teachers need to know about purposeful teaching in order to find meaning in their work.
Research on Optimization Measures of Zigbee Network Connection in an Imitated Mine Fading Channel
Authors: Liu Zhihai , Wang Yuxuan , Zeng Qingliang , Yang Yang , Dai Zhenrui
Published: January 2021

Based on the background of a mine, this study aimed to improve underground wireless communication. The study selected Zigbee technology from many wireless technologies as the basis, expounded the technical advantages and disadvantages, and addressed its disadvantages. First, the modulation technology of Zigbee was improved. This article selects and describes O-QPSK technology from three modulation technologies, thereby addressing the synchronization difficulties caused by inherent technical reasons, and proposes a modulation method based on feedforward timing. Moreover, excellent performance was achieved in the follow-up simulation experiment. For networking problems, a series of mechanisms are proposed to address several problems in large-scale networking: node offline, energy waste, signal delay, etc. This article proposes five main mechanisms and an improved protocol from two significant perspectives. The problem of node disconnection is divided into two parts. Considering the different status of edge nodes and important nodes in the network, three mechanisms are proposed for edge nodes for disconnection detection and self-repair, and two mechanisms are proposed for essential nodes. This can compensate for the loss caused by the disconnection of essential nodes at a specific time. For network energy waste, an Improved-LEACH protocol is proposed to alleviate the signal delay problem. The performance of the five mechanisms and one protocol was verified in a simulation test, and the performance was reasonable and in line with expectations.
Research and Analysis of Permanent Magnet Transmission System Controls on Diesel Railway Vehicles
Authors: Kang Lili , Jiang Dongjie , Xia Chaoying , Xu Yongjiu , Sun Kaiyi
Published: January 2021

As the energy crisis and environmental pollution continue to be a gradual threat, the energy saving of transmission systems has become the focus of railway vehicle research and design. Due to their high-power density and efficiency features, permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM) have been gradually applied in railway vehicles. To improve the efficiency of the transmission system of diesel railway vehicles, it is a good option to use PMSM as both a generator and traction motor to construct a full permanent magnet transmission system (FPMTS). Due to the application of the new FPMTS, some of the original control strategies for diesel railway vehicle transmission systems are no longer applicable. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust and improve the control strategies to meet the needs of FPMTS. We studied several key issues that affect the reliability and comfort of the vehicles. As such, this paper introduced the FPMTS control strategy, including the coordinated control strategy of the diesel and the traction motor, the two degrees of freedom (2DOF) decoupling current regulator, the maximum torque control of the standardized unit current, the wheel slip protection control, and the fault protection strategy. The experiment was carried out on the test platform and the test run of the diesel shunting locomotive equipped with the FPMTS. The results showed that the control strategy described in this paper met the operation characteristics of the FPMTS and that the control performance was superior. The study of FPMTS lays the foundation for the subsequent application of permanent magnet motors in high-powered diesel locomotives and high-speed diesel multi-units.
How Augmented Reality Could Improve the Student’s Attraction to Learn Mechanisms
Authors: Boboc Răzvan Gabriel , Chiriac Rareș-Lucian , Antonya Csaba
Published: January 2021

Mechanics, along with electronics, is a basic field for the development of high technologies. However, learning mechanics is not an easy task. To meet and adapt to the requirements of students in the digital age, teachers must provide them significant ways to incorporate the latest technologies and applications for their studies. In this study, we explored the application of augmented reality (AR) to improve the learning of the science of Mechanisms. An AR application was implemented and developed for Android-based devices, followed by a qualitative experiment conducted with a sample of 116 students. The study was based on the technology acceptance model and the students’ attitudes towards learning in AR environments were assessed using the structural equation modeling. The results showed that the didactic potential of this application is promising, which is highlighted by the positive attitude about using the application, as well as by the high values obtained for intention to use.
A Citizen Science Approach to Build a Knowledge Base and Cadastre on Earth Buildings in the Weinviertel Region, Austria
Authors: Schauppenlehner Thomas , Eder Renate , Ressar Kim , Feiglstorfer Hubert , Meingast Roland , Ottner Franz
Published: January 2021

Clay played a decisive role as a building material in the Austrian Weinviertel region. Its traditional use in vernacular architecture started to disappear in the 19th century, triggered, for example, by upcoming industrial processes to produce construction materials such as burnt bricks, and by making them available as mass building products in course of the time—even for vernacular purpose and at remote places. Following a debate on ecological sustainability during the last decades, the striking advantages of clay as a building material have been rediscovered. However, to support restoration activities and develop new uses, a vital and profound knowledge of properties of the local clay and its traditional local use is required. It is therefore important to increase the knowledge of this unique heritage among the local population and the scientific community. This article aims to present the development of an earth building cadastre (Lehmbaukataster) based on an innovative Citizen Science approach using mobile technologies for activating and integrating the local population with specific local and historical knowledge of earth architecture in the Weinviertel. The results show that citizens can provide essential information to develop a cadastre on earth buildings. Supported by a web application with GPS location facilities, camera, and low entry barriers, citizens can contribute to the expansion of the scientific database. The research results are a strong impetus for the development of strategies for the valorization and protection of cultural heritage.
Temporal and Spatial Variations in the Leaf Area Index and Its Response to Topography in the Three-River Source Region, China from 2000 to 2017
Authors: Zhang Wenqi , Jin Huaan , Shao Huaiyong , Li Ainong , Li Shangzhi , Fan Wenjie
Published: January 2021

The Three-River Source Region (TRSR) is an important area for the ecological security of China. Vegetation growth has been affected by the climate change, topography, and human activities in this area. However, few studies have focused on analyzing time series tendencies of vegetation change in various terrain conditions. To address this issue in the TRSR, this study explored vegetation stability, tendency, and sustainability with multiple methods (e.g., coefficient of variation, Theil-Sen median trend analysis, Mann-Kendall test, and Hurst index) based on the 2000–2017 Global LAnd Surface Satellite Leaf Area Index (GLASS LAI) product. The differentiation patterns of LAI variations and multiyear mean LAI value under different topographic factors were also investigated in combination with digital elevation model (DEM). The results showed that (1) the mean LAI value in the study area increased, with a linear tendency of 0.013·10 a−1; (2) LAI values decreased from southeast to northwest in terms of spatial distribution and the CV indicated LAI variations were relatively stable; (3) the trend analysis revealed that the improved area of LAI accounted for 62.72% which was larger than the degraded area (37.28%), and hurst index revealed a weak anti-sustaining effect of the current tendencies; and (4) the increasing trend was found in multiyear mean LAI value as relief amplitude and slope increased, while LAI stability improved with increasing slope. They exhibited a clear regular pattern. Moreover, significant improvement in LAI generally occurred in low-altitude and flat areas. Finally, the overall improvement and sustainability of LAI improved when moving from sunny aspects to shady aspects, but the LAI stability decreased. Note that vegetation degradation was observed in some high slope areas and was further aggravated. This study is beneficial for revealing the spatial and temporal changes of LAI and their changing rules as a function of different topographic factors in the TRSR. Meanwhile, the results of this study provide theoretical support for sustainable development of this area.
AIRSENSE-TO-ACT: A Concept Paper for COVID-19 Countermeasures Based on Artificial Intelligence Algorithms and Multi-Source Data Processing
Authors: Sebastianelli Alessandro , Mauro Francesco , Di Cosmo Gianluca , Passarini Fabrizio , Carminati Marco , Ullo Silvia Liberata
Published: January 2021

The aim of this concept paper is the description of a new tool to support institutions in the implementation of targeted countermeasures, based on quantitative and multi-scale elements, for the fight and prevention of emergencies, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic. The tool is a cloud-based centralized system; a multi-user platform that relies on artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for the processing of heterogeneous data, which can produce as an output the level of risk. The model includes a specific neural network which is first trained to learn the correlations between selected inputs, related to the case of interest: environmental variables (chemical–physical, such as meteorological), human activity (such as traffic and crowding), level of pollution (in particular the concentration of particulate matter) and epidemiological variables related to the evolution of the contagion. The tool realized in the first phase of the project will serve later both as a decision support system (DSS) with predictive capacity, when fed by the actual measured data, and as a simulation bench performing the tuning of certain input values, to identify which of them led to a decrease in the degree of risk. In this way, we aimed to design different scenarios to compare different restrictive strategies and the actual expected benefits, to adopt measures sized to the actual needs, adapted to the specific areas of analysis and useful for safeguarding human health; and we compared the economic and social impacts of the choices. Although ours is a concept paper, some preliminary analyses have been shown, and two different case studies are presented, whose results have highlighted a correlation between NO2, mobility and COVID-19 data. However, given the complexity of the virus diffusion mechanism, linked to air pollutants but also to many other factors, these preliminary studies confirmed the need, on the one hand, to carry out more in-depth analyses, and on the other, to use AI algorithms to capture the hidden relationships among the huge amounts of data to process.
Deep Sedation for Pediatric Parotid Sialendoscopy in Juvenile Recurrent Parotitis
Authors: Capaccio Pasquale , Palermo Andrea , Lucchinelli Paolo , Marchesi Tiziana , Torretta Sara , Gaffuri Michele , Marchisio Paola , Pignataro Lorenzo
Published: January 2021

Sialendoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic tool for juvenile recurrent parotitis (JRP); the procedure is under general anesthesia, but local anesthesia has been used for sialendoscopy in children >8 years. Based on the experience in children with sedation for gastrointestinal endoscopy, we investigated the reliability and safety of deep sedation for sialendoscopy in JRP. Six children (3 females, 6–13 years) with episodes of parotid swelling underwent interventional (duct dilation and steroid irrigation) sialendoscopy with intravenous bolus of 1 mg/kg propofol and 1 mcg/kg fentanyl, and continuous infusion of 2 mg/kg/h propofol. Sialendoscopy under deep sedation was successfully performed in all the patients; the procedure was well tolerated, without any adverse effects. One event of full awakening was registered and promptly solved without needing to interrupt the procedure. Effectiveness of sialendoscopy under deep sedation was subjectively attested by high positive scores obtained at post-operative standardized questionnaires administered to the patients and their parents, and objectively by the lack of clinical recurrences during the follow-up. The combination of propofol and fentanyl seems to be a reliable and safe means of sedating children with JRP undergoing sialendoscopy.
Severe COVID-19 Lung Infection in Older People and Periodontitis
Authors: Aquino-Martinez Ruben , Hernández-Vigueras Scarlette
Published: January 2021

Periodontal bacteria dissemination into the lower respiratory tract may create favorable conditions for severe COVID-19 lung infection. Once lung tissues are colonized, cells that survive persistent bacterial infection can undergo permanent damage and accelerated cellular senescence. Consequently, several morphological and functional features of senescent lung cells facilitate SARS-CoV-2 replication. The higher risk for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, the virus that causes COVID-19, and death in older patients has generated the question whether basic aging mechanisms could be implicated in such susceptibility. Mounting evidence indicates that cellular senescence, a manifestation of aging at the cellular level, contributes to the development of age-related lung pathologies and facilitates respiratory infections. Apparently, a relationship between life-threatening COVID-19 lung infection and pre-existing periodontal disease seems improbable. However, periodontal pathogens can be inoculated during endotracheal intubation and/or aspirated into the lower respiratory tract. This review focuses on how the dissemination of periodontal bacteria into the lungs could aggravate age-related senescent cell accumulation and facilitate more efficient SARS-CoV-2 cell attachment and replication. We also consider how periodontal bacteria-induced premature senescence could influence the course of COVID-19 lung infection. Finally, we highlight the role of saliva as a reservoir for both pathogenic bacteria and SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, the identification of active severe periodontitis can be an opportune and valid clinical parameter for risk stratification of old patients with COVID-19.
Uveitis as an Open Window to Systemic Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: El Jammal Thomas , Loria Olivier , Jamilloux Yvan , Gerfaud-Valentin Mathieu , Kodjikian Laurent , Sève Pascal
Published: January 2021

Spondyloarthritis (Spa), Behçet’s disease (BD) and sarcoidosis are major systemic inflammatory diseases worldwide. They are all multisystem pathologies and share a possible ocular involvement, especially uveitis. We hereby describe selected cases who were referred by ophthalmologists to our internal medicine department for unexplained uveitis. Physical examination and/or the use of laboratory and imaging investigations allowed to make a diagnosis of a systemic inflammatory disease in a large proportion of patients. In our tertiary referral center, 75 patients have been diagnosed with Spa (n = 20), BD (n = 9), or sarcoidosis (n = 46) in the last two years. There was a significant delay in the diagnosis of Spa-associated uveitis. Screening strategies using Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-B27 determination and sacroiliac magnetic resonance imaging in patients suffering from chronic low back pain and/or psoriasis helped in the diagnosis. BD’s uveitis affects young people from both sexes and all origins and usually presents with panuveitis and retinal vasculitis. The high proportion of sarcoidosis in our population is explained by the use of chest computed tomography (CT) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography CT that helped to identify smaller hilar or mediastinal involvement and allowed to further investigate those patients, especially in the elderly. Our results confirm how in these sight- and potentially life-threatening diseases a prompt diagnosis is mandatory and benefits from a multidisciplinary approach.
Behavioral and Neurophysiological Aspects of Inhibition—The Effects of Acute Cardiovascular Exercise
Authors: Levin Oron , Netz Yael , Ziv Gal
Published: January 2021

This review summarizes behavioral and neurophysiological aspects of inhibitory control affected by a single bout of cardiovascular exercise. The review also examines the effect of a single bout of cardiovascular exercise on these processes in young adults with a focus on the functioning of prefrontal pathways (including the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and elements of the prefrontal-basal ganglia pathways). Finally, the review offers an overview on the potential effects of cardiovascular exercise on GABA-ergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission in the adult brain and propose mechanisms or processes that may mediate these effects. The main findings show that a single bout of cardiovascular exercise can enhance inhibitory control. In addition, acute exercise appears to facilitate activation of prefrontal brain regions that regulate excitatory and inhibitory pathways (specifically but not exclusively the prefrontal-basal-ganglia pathways) which appear to be impaired in older age. Based on the reviewed studies, we suggest that future work examine the beneficial effects of exercise on the inhibitory networks in the aging brain.
Red Blood Cell Distribution Width, Disease Severity, and Mortality in Hospitalized Patients with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zinellu Angelo , Mangoni Arduino A.
Published: January 2021

The identification of biomarkers predicting disease severity and outcomes is the focus of intense research in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 infection). Ideally, such biomarkers should be easily derivable from routine tests. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the predictive role of the red blood cell distribution width (RDW), a routine hematological test, in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. We searched the electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus, from January 2020 to November 2020, for studies reporting data on the RDW and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity, defined as severe illness or admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), and mortality. Eleven studies in 4901 COVID-19 patients were selected for the meta-analysis. Pooled results showed that the RDW values were significantly higher in patients with severe disease and non-survivors (standard mean difference, SMD = 0.56, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.81, p < 0.001). Heterogeneity between studies was extreme (I2 = 80.6%; p < 0.001). In sensitivity analysis, the effect size was not modified when each study was in turn removed (effect size range, between 0.47 and 0.63). The Begg’s (p = 0.53) and Egger’s tests (p = 0.52) showed no evidence of publication bias. No significant correlations were observed between SMD and age, gender, whole blood count, end point, study geographic area, or design. Our meta-analysis showed that higher RDW values are significantly associated with COVID-19 severity and mortality. This routine parameter might assist with early risk stratification in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Accuracy of a 7-Item Patient-Reported Stand-Alone Tool for Periodontitis Screening
Authors: Sekundo Caroline , Bölk Tobias , Kalmus Olivier , Listl Stefan
Published: January 2021

Periodontitis is interrelated with various other chronic diseases. Recent evidence suggests that treatment of periodontitis improves glycemic control in diabetes patients and reduces the costs of diabetes treatment. So far, however, screening for periodontitis in non-dental settings has been complicated by a lack of easily applicable and reliable screening tools which can be applied by non-dental professionals. The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of a short seven-item tool developed by the German Society for Periodontology (DG PARO) to screen for periodontitis by means of patient-reported information. A total of 88 adult patients filled in the patient-reported Periodontitis Risk Score (pPRS; range: 0 points = lowest periodontitis risk; 20 points = very high periodontitis risk) questionnaire before dental check-up at Heidelberg University Hospital. Subsequent clinical assessments according to Periodontal Screening and Recording (PSR®) were compared with pPRS scores. The diagnostic accuracy of pPRS at different cutoff values was assessed according to sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values, as well as Receiver-Operator-Characteristic curves, Area Under the Curve (AUC), and logistic regression analysis. According to combined specificity and sensitivity (AUC = 0.86; 95%-CI: 0.76–0.95), the diagnostic accuracy of the pPRS for detecting periodontal inflammation (PSR® ≥ 3) was highest for a pPRS cutoff distinguishing between pPRS scores < 7 vs. ≥ 7. Patients with pPRS scores ≥ 7 had a 36.09 (95%-CI: 9.82–132.61) times higher chance of having a PSR® ≥ 3 than patients with scores < 7. In conclusion, the pPRS may be considered an appropriately accurate stand-alone tool for the screening for periodontitis.
Impact of COVID-19 on the Dental Community: Part I before Vaccine (BV)
Authors: Attia Sameh , Howaldt Hans-Peter
Published: January 2021

One year has passed with the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact is still evident everywhere on the globe and in all fields and domains [...]
Effects of Exercise Interventions on Inflammatory Parameters in Acutely Hospitalized Older Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Ramírez-Vélez Robinson , García-Hermoso Antonio , Martínez-Velilla Nicolás , Zambom-Ferraresi Fabricio , L. Sáez de Asteasu Mikel , Recarey Anel E. , Izquierdo Mikel
Published: January 2021

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to appraise the acute effects of exercise training on inflammatory parameters in hospitalized older adults. We conducted a systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Web of Science, Medline and PubMed were searched for studies published until August 2020. The review included all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated and compared the effect of exercise versus usual care on inflammatory parameters in acutely hospitalized older adults. Two reviewers independently assessed the studies. The quality of all the included studies was assessed using the DerSimonian–Laird random-effects inverse-variance model. Five studies (275 participants) met the inclusion criteria. The exercise interventions included resistance or multicomponent intervention programs. The results indicate that, compared with usual care, exercise interventions have a positive impact on overall inflammatory parameters, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) (Hedge’s g = −0.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.33 to −0.04, p = 0.011, I2 = 0%). However, analyses of individual inflammatory parameters revealed a non-significant trend for reductions in CRP (Hedge’s g = −0.20, 95% CI −0.47 to 0.07, p = 0.151, I2 = 31.2%) and IGF-I (Hedge’s g = −0.34, 95% CI −0.79 to 0.11, p = 0.138, I2 = 0%). On the basis of this review, we conclude that exercise during acute hospitalization offers a mild improvement in the inflammatory profile over usual care in older patients. Nevertheless, due to limited number of RCTs, our findings must be interpreted with caution and confirmed in future studies.
A 3-Year Observational Study of Patients with Progressive Systemic Sclerosis Treated with an Intensified B Lymphocyte Depletion Protocol: Clinical and Immunological Response
Authors: Rossi Daniela , Sciascia Savino , Cecchi Irene , Saracco Marta , Montabone Erika , Modena Vittorio , Pellerito Raffaele , Carignola Renato , Roccatello Dario
Published: January 2021

Background: B-cells have been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc), representing, therefore, a potential therapeutic target. Objectives: We aimed at investigating the 36-month outcomes of 20 SSc patients who underwent an intensified B-depletion therapy (IBCDT) scheme, including both Rituximab (RTX) and cyclophosphamide (CYC). Methods: Data from 20 severe patients (18 females and 2 males, mean age 66.7 ± 11.0 years) with diffuse SSc (anti-topoisomerase I antibody in 95%) patients with multiorgan involvement including interstitial lung disease (ILD) treated with an IBCDT were prospectively collected. IBCDT comprehended: RTX 375 mg/m2 administered for four weekly doses (on days 1, 8, 15, and 22), followed by two additional doses after 30 and 60 days, in addition to two administrations of 10 mg/kg of intravenous CYC plus three methylprednisolone pulses (15 mg/kg) and subsequently followed by oral prednisone rapidly tapered to low minimum dosage of 5 mg daily. In addition, 10 patients with more severe functional respiratory impairment at baseline were also treated with RTX 500 mg every 4 months during the first year and two times a year during the second and the third year. Results: After 36 months of follow-up, we recorded significant amelioration in N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels (mean 385.4 ± 517 pg/mL at baseline to 279 ± 543 after 36 months). In addition, a significant radiological improvement of ILD in 20% of patients (4/20) and a radiological stabilization with no sign of progression of interstitial involvement in 13/20 (65%) were documented. A total of 3 out of 20 (15%) patients experienced a worsening of the ILD. No patient showed further decrease in functional respiratory parameters, including forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in one second, and mean values of diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide Moreover, no patient showed any change in the ejection fraction and pulmonary artery pressure when comparing values at baseline and after 24 and 36 months of observation. No severe infection, renal flare, RTX-related side effects were observed. No patient died. Conclusions: Our findings support that the IBCDT was well tolerated and might be a promising therapeutic option for the management of SSc, especially in those subjects with multiorgan involvement that includes ILD.
Continuous-Time Programming of Floating-Gate Transistors for Nonvolatile Analog Memory Arrays
Authors: Rumberg Brandon , Clites Spencer , Abulaiha Haifa , DiLello Alexander , Graham David
Published: January 2021

Floating-gate (FG) transistors are a primary means of providing nonvolatile digital memory in standard CMOS processes, but they are also key enablers for large-scale programmable analog systems, as well. Such programmable analog systems are often designed for battery-powered and resource-constrained applications, which require the memory cells to program quickly and with low infrastructural overhead. To meet these needs, we present a four-transistor analog floating-gate memory cell that offers both voltage and current outputs and has linear programming characteristics. Furthermore, we present a simple programming circuit that forces the memory cell to converge to targets with 13.0 bit resolution. Finally, we demonstrate how to use the FG memory cell and the programmer circuit in array configurations. We show how to program an array in either a serial or parallel fashion and demonstrate the effectiveness of the array programming with an application of a bandpass filter array.