bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visuomotor Activation of Inhibition-Processing in Pediatric Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: A Magnetoencephalography Study
Authors: Nishat Eman , Dockstader Colleen , Wheeler Anne L. , Tan Thomas , Anderson John A. E. , Mendlowitz Sandra , Mabbott Donald J. , Arnold Paul D. , Ameis Stephanie H.
Published: April 2021

Background: Response inhibition engages the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) circuit, which has been implicated in children, and youth with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This study explored whether CSTC engagement during response inhibition, measured using magnetoencephalography (MEG), differed in a sample of medication-naïve youth with OCD, compared to typically developing controls (TDC).

Methods: Data was analyzed in 17 medication-naïve children and youth with OCD (11.7 ± 2.2 SD years) and 13 TDC (12.6 ± 2.2 SD years). MEG was used to localize and characterize neural activity during a Go/No-Go task. Task performance on Go/No-Go conditions and regional differences in amplitude of activity during Go and No-Go condition between OCD vs. TDC were examined using two-sample t-tests. Post-hoc analysis with Bayesian t-tests was used to estimate the certainty of outcomes.

Results: No differences in Go/No-Go performance were found between OCD and TDC groups. In response to the visual cue presented during the Go condition, participants with OCD showed significantly increased amplitude of activity in the primary motor (MI) cortex compared to TDC. In addition, significantly reduced amplitude of PCu was found following successful stopping to No-Go cues in OCD vs. TDC during No-Go task performance. Bayesian t-tests indicated high probability and large effect sizes for the differences in MI and PCu amplitude found between groups.

Conclusion: Our preliminary study in a small medication-naïve sample extends previous work indicating intact response inhibition in pediatric OCD. While altered neural response in the current study was found during response inhibition performance in OCD, differences localized to regions outside of the CSTC. Our findings suggest that additional imaging research in medication-naïve samples is needed to clarify regional differences associated with OCD vs. influenced by medication effects, and suggest that MEG may be sensitive to detecting such differences.
Social-Cognitive Determinants of HIV Testing Among Tuberculosis Infected Patients in Kassala State, Sudan
Authors: Idris Almutaz M. , Crutzen Rik , Van den Borne Hubertus W.
Published: April 2021

Background: Use of HIV testing and counselling (HTC) services remains low among TB patients in Sudan. Identifying the social-cognitive (sub) determinants associated with HTC uptake is essential before developing interventions to promote uptake. This study aims to assess the sub-determinants of intention to use and actual behaviour of using HTC services among TB patients in Sudan and to ascertain the most relevant beliefs to inform future interventions.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in five health facilities selected randomly in Kassala State. First, a small elicitation study (N = 25) was conducted to inform the Reasoned Action Approach (RAA) based questionnaire. A total of 411 TB patients completed the survey questionnaire. Confidence Interval Based Estimation of Relevance analysis (CIBER) was employed to establish the sub-determinants' relevance.

Result: The studied beliefs explained 38–52% of the variance in the intention and 20–35% in the behaviour variance. The beliefs that “Using HTC services increases my fear of being tested positive for HIV” and “Using HTC services increases my fear of losing my partner if I have a positive test result” were negatively associated with intentions and use of HTC services; and both were highly relevant for intervention. The belief “If I use HTC services, I would know my HIV status” was positively associated with intentions and use of HTC services. However, it was less relevant for intervention. Perceived susceptibility to HIV infection was not associated with intention and only weakly associated with use of HTC services. Its relevance was low for intervention.

Conclusions: The study showed that the social-cognitive beliefs (sub-determinants) vary in their relationship with the intention and use of HTC services among TB patients; with variable relevance for intervention. Interventions to enhance the use of HTC services should address the most relevant beliefs to maximise the effectiveness of interventions. Further studies are needed to identify other relevant sub-determinants of HTC use behaviour.
E-Learning in Teaching Emergency Disaster Response Among Undergraduate Medical Students in Malaysia
Authors: Saiboon Ismail M. , Zahari Fareena , Isa Hisham M. , Sabardin Dazlin M. , Robertson Colin E.
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Teaching disaster response medicine (DRM) to medical students requires considerable resources. We evaluate the effectiveness of e-learning in teaching emergency disaster response (ELITE-DR), a novel initiative, in educating medical students of the cognitive aspect of DRM.

Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study among pre-clinical year medical students was carried out to determine their knowledge on DRM and perception regarding the ELITE-DR initiative using a validated online questionnaire. A three-part self-learning video covering the principles and medical management of DRM were distributed before answering the questionnaire served as the training.

Results: A total of 168 students participated in the study. Their overall knowledge showed a significant increase in between pre-and-post-interventions. Recall and simple decision-making knowledge aspects were better than complex decision-making knowledge. It appeared that participants assimilate knowledge better from visual rather than audio stimuli. Participants with high perception-scores demonstrated better knowledge-scores. However, e-learning was not preferred as a substitute for face-to-face (F2F) teaching.

Conclusion: ELITE-DR shows promise in teaching DRM. Simple recall and comprehension levels of knowledge were well-served through this technique. However, for more complex decision-making knowledge, a different approach might be required. ELITE-DR offers flexibility, accessibility, and personalized learning. The content presentation is improved by using several different visual stimuli. This approach is useful for cognitive aspect learning, but it should not replace standard F2F teaching.
Deep Learning and its Application for Healthcare Delivery in Low and Middle Income Countries
Authors: Williams Douglas , Hornung Heiko , Nadimpalli Adi , Peery Ashton
Published: April 2021

As anyone who has witnessed firsthand knows, healthcare delivery in low-resource settings is fundamentally different from more affluent settings. Artificial Intelligence, including Machine Learning and more specifically Deep Learning, has made amazing advances over the past decade. Significant resources are now dedicated to problems in the field of medicine, but with the potential to further the digital divide by neglecting underserved areas and their specific context. In the general case, Deep Learning remains a complex technology requiring deep technical expertise. This paper explores advances within the narrower field of deep learning image analysis that reduces barriers to adoption and allows individuals with less specialized software skills to effectively employ these techniques. This enables a next wave of innovation, driven largely by problem domain expertise and the creative application of this technology to unaddressed concerns in LMIC settings. The paper also explores the central role of NGOs in problem identification, data acquisition and curation, and integration of new technologies into healthcare systems.
Considering Performance in the Automated and Manual Coding of Sociolinguistic Variables: Lessons From Variable (ING)
Authors: Kendall Tyler , Vaughn Charlotte , Farrington Charlie , Gunter Kaylynn , McLean Jaidan , Tacata Chloe , Arnson Shelby
Published: April 2021

Impressionistic coding of sociolinguistic variables like English (ING), the alternation between pronunciations liketalkin'andtalking, has been a central part of the analytic workflow in studies of language variation and change for over a half-century. Techniques for automating the measurement and coding for a wide range of sociolinguistic data have been on the rise over recent decades but procedures for coding some features, especially those without clearly defined acoustic correlates like (ING), have lagged behind others, such as vowels and sibilants. This paper explores computational methods for automatically coding variable (ING) in speech recordings, examining the use of automatic speech recognition procedures related to forced alignment (using the Montreal Forced Aligner) as well as supervised machine learning algorithms (linear and radial support vector machines, and random forests). Considering the automated coding of pronunciation variables like (ING) raises broader questions for sociolinguistic methods, such as how much different human analysts agree in their impressionistic codes for such variables and what data might act as the “gold standard” for training and testing of automated procedures. This paper explores several of these considerations in automated, and manual, coding of sociolinguistic variables and provides baseline performance data for automated and manual coding methods. We consider multiple ways of assessing algorithms' performance, including agreement with human coders, as well as the impact on the outcome of an analysis of (ING) that includes linguistic and social factors. Our results show promise for automated coding methods but also highlight that variability in results should be expected even with careful human coded data. All data for our study come from the public Corpus of Regional African American Language and code and derivative datasets (including our hand-coded data) are available with the paper.
Before, Between, and After: Enriching Robot Communication Surrounding Collaborative Creative Activities
Authors: Savery Richard , Zahray Lisa , Weinberg Gil
Published: April 2021

Research in creative robotics continues to expand across all creative domains, including art, music and language. Creative robots are primarily designed to be task specific, with limited research into the implications of their design outside their core task. In the case of a musical robot, this includes when a human sees and interacts with the robot before and after the performance, as well as in between pieces. These non-musical interaction tasks such as the presence of a robot during musical equipment set up, play a key role in the human perception of the robot however have received only limited attention. In this paper, we describe a new audio system using emotional musical prosody, designed to match the creative process of a musical robot for use before, between and after musical performances. Our generation system relies on the creation of a custom dataset for musical prosody. This system is designed foremost to operate in real time and allow rapid generation and dialogue exchange between human and robot. For this reason, the system combines symbolic deep learning through a Conditional Convolution Variational Auto-encoder, with an emotion-tagged audio sampler. We then compare this to a SOTA text-to-speech system in our robotic platform, Shimon the marimba player.We conducted a between-groups study with 100 participants watching a musician interact for 30 s with Shimon. We were able to increase user ratings for the key creativity metrics; novelty and coherence, while maintaining ratings for expressivity across each implementation. Our results also indicated that by communicating in a form that relates to the robot’s core functionality, we can raise likeability and perceived intelligence, while not altering animacy or anthropomorphism. These findings indicate the variation that can occur in the perception of a robot based on interactions surrounding a performance, such as initial meetings and spaces between pieces, in addition to the core creative algorithms.
Exploring the Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Dental Team: Preparedness, Psychological Impacts and Emotional Reactions
Authors: Humphris Gerry , Knights Jennifer , Beaton Laura , Araujo Marianna , Yuan Siyang , Clarkson Jan , Young Linda , Freeman Ruth
Published: April 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has placed increased demands on clinical staff in primary dental care due to a variety of uncertainties. Current reports on staff responses have tended to be brief enquiries without some theoretical explanation supported by developed measurement systems.

Aim: To investigate features of health and well-being as an outcome of the uncertainties surrounding COVID-19 for dentists and dental health professionals in primary dental care and for those in training. In addition, the study examined the well-being indices with reference to normative values. Finally a theoretical model was explored to explain depressive symptoms and investigate its generalisability across dentists and dental health professionals in primary dental care and those in postgraduate training.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey of dental trainees and primary dental care staff in Scotland was conducted in June to October 2020. Assessment was through “Portal,” an online tool used for course bookings/management administered by NHS Education for Scotland. A non-probability convenience sample was employed to recruit participants. The questionnaire consisted of four multi-item scales including: preparedness (14 items of the DPPPS), burnout (the 9 item emotional exhaustion subscale and 5 items of the depersonalisation subscale of the MBI), the 22 item Impact of Event Scale-Revised, and depressive symptomatology using the Patient Health Questionnaire-2. Analysis was performed to compare the levels of these assessments between trainees and primary dental care staff and a theoretically based path model to explain depressive symptomology, utilising structural equation modelling.

Results: Approximately, 27% of all 329 respondents reported significant depressive symptomology and 55% of primary care staff rated themselves as emotionally exhausted. Primary care staff (n = 218) felt less prepared for managing their health, coping with uncertainty and financial insecurity compared with their trainee (n = 111) counterparts (all p's < 0.05). Depressive symptomology was rated higher than reported community samples (p < 0.05) The overall fit of the raw data applied to the theoretical model confirmed that preparedness (negative association) and trauma associated with COVID-19 (positive association) were significant factors predicting lowered mood (chi-square = 46.7, df = 21, p = 0.001; CFI = 0.98, RMSEA = 0.06, SRMR = 0.03). Burnout was indirectly implicated and a major path from trauma to burnout was found to be significant in primary care staff but absent in trainees (p < 0.002).

Conclusion: These initial findings demonstrate the possible benefit of resourcing staff support and interventions to assist dental staff to prepare during periods of high uncertainty resulting from the recent COVID-19 pandemic.
Case Report: Use of PET/CT to Guide Treatment in a Cat With Presentation Consistent With Hodgkin's-Like Lymphoma
Authors: Chen Carolyn L. , Cook Matthew R. , Brown Megan E. , Lumbrezer-Johnson Sarah , Hostnik Eric T. , Lapsley Janis M. , Lerche Phillip , Wavreille Vincent A. , Menendez Maria I. , Knopp Michael V. , Linn Sarah C. , Premanandan Christopher , Selmic Laura E.
Published: April 2021

An 8-year-old male neutered Domestic Long Hair cat was presented for a cervical swelling that was suspected to be an enlarged left retropharyngeal lymph node. In the absence of other lymphadenopathy, this was initially suspected to be Hodgkin's-like lymphoma. A positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET/CT) scan was performed using 2-deoxy-2-[18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) to assess for evidence of disease in other locations to guide treatment. Multifocal increased radiopharmaceutical uptake was identified, indicating disease in multiple organs. High-grade lymphoma was confirmed on tissue biopsy. As such, systemic cytotoxic chemotherapy was recommended instead of lymph node extirpation surgery. The cat received a modified CHOP chemotherapy protocol and attained a temporary partial remission. After 2 months of treatment, the cat stopped responding to chemotherapy and was eventually euthanized due to a relapse of disease and decreased quality of life. This case describes the utility of PET/CT to guide treatment in a cat with a presentation consistent with Hodgkin's-like lymphoma.
Supplemental Fiber Affects Body Temperature and Fecal Metabolites but Not Respiratory Rate or Body Composition in Mid-Distance Training Sled Dogs
Authors: Thornton Emma , Robinson Eve , Templeman James R. , Bruggink Lindy , Bower Michael , Cant John P. , Holloway Graham P. , Swanson Kelly S. , Squires E. James , Shoveller Anna K.
Published: April 2021

Dietary fiber affects canine physiology in many ways, such as increasing colonic absorption of water and improving gut health, both of which may positively impact exercise performance. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of increased dietary soluble fiber and incremental training on respiratory rate (RR), internal body temperature (BT), body composition, and fecal metabolites in mid-distance training sled dogs. Fourteen dogs (12 Siberian and 2 Alaskan Huskies) were blocked by age, sex, and body weight (BW) and then randomly allocated into one of two diet groups. Seven dogs were fed a dry extruded control diet (Ctl) with an insoluble:soluble fiber ratio of 4:1 (0.74% soluble fiber on a dry-matter basis), and seven dogs were fed a dry extruded treatment diet (Trt) with an insoluble:soluble fiber ratio of 3:1 (2.12% soluble fiber on a dry-matter basis). Fecal samples were taken once a week. All dogs underwent 9 weeks of incremental exercise conditioning where the running distance was designed to increase each week. Every 3 weeks, external telemetry equipment was used to non-invasively measure and record RR and internal BT at resting, working, and post-exercise recovery states. Body composition was measured on weeks −1 and 9 using quantitative magnetic resonance. Body composition, RR, BT, and fecal metabolites were analyzed using a mixed model with dog as a random effect and week and diet group as fixed effects. Dogs on Trt had lower working and post-exercise BT than Ctl (P < 0.05). In addition, Trt dogs had lower recovery BT at weeks 2 and 5 than Ctl dogs (P < 0.05). Treatment dogs had greater fecal short-chain fatty acid concentrations than Ctl (P < 0.05). Diet had no effect on RR or body composition (P > 0.10), but exercise resulted in an overall 7% increase in lean and 3.5% decrease in fat mass (P < 0.05). These data suggest that increasing dietary soluble fiber may positively influence BT and gut health; however, it has no effect on RR or body composition. Soluble fiber did not negatively impact any measures of overall health and performance and should be considered for use in performance dogs.
MiR-543 Inhibits the Migration and Epithelial-To-Mesenchymal Transition of TGF-β-Treated Endometrial Stromal Cells via the MAPK and Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathways
Authors: Wang Linlin , Liu Dan , Wei Jun , Yuan Liwei , Zhao Shiyun , Huang Yani , Ma Jingwen , Yang Zhijuan
Published: April 2021

Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is one of the most prevalent reproductive system diseases in females. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are reported to be master regulators in a variety of diseases, including IUA, but the role of microRNA-543 (miR-543) in IUA remains to be elucidated. In this study, we observed that miR-543 was downregulated in transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)-treated endometrial stromal cells (ESCs). Functionally, we observed that miR-543 suppressed the migration, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and inhibited expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in TGF-β-treated ESCs. Mechanistically, MAPK1 is targeted by miR-543 after prediction and screening. A luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that miR-543 complementarily binds with the 3′ untranslated region of mitogen-activated protein kinase 1 (MAPK1), and western blot analysis indicated that miR-543 negatively regulates MAPK1 protein levels. In addition, results from rescue assays showed that miR-543 inhibits the migration and EMT of TGF-β-treated ESCs by targeting MAPK1. In addition, we observed that miR-543 inactivates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway through inhibiting the phosphorylation of MAPK1 and β-catenin. Finally, we confirmed that miR-543 represses migration, EMT and inhibits levels of ECM proteins in TGF-β-treated ESCs by targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Our results demonstrated that miR-543 suppresses migration and EMT of TGF-β-treated ESCs by targeting the MAPK and Wnt/β-catenin pathways.
Quality Attributes of Malaysia Purple-Fleshed Sweet Potato at Different Peel Condition
Authors: Shaari Nurfarhana , Shamsudin Rosnah , Nor Mohd Zuhair Mohd , Hashim Norhashila
Published: April 2021

In this study, physical and chemical properties (dry matter, ash, moisture, protein, fat, fiber, carbohydrate, starch, amylose, and vitamin C) of sweet potato tuber and flour of Anggun 1 cultivar were evaluated at different conditions. During peeling, the tuber and flour were processed subjected to three different conditions, which were unpeeled tubers (C1), peeled tubers (C2), and skin of tuber only (C3). From the results, the highest (p < 0.05) dry matter was observed in C1 while higher contents of ash, moisture, and protein were found in C3. Regarding the fat and vitamin C content, no significant differences (p > 0.05) were found between each condition. The highest fiber, carbohydrate, and amylose content (p < 0.05) were found in C1. The C1 and C2 reflected significantly higher (p < 0.05) starch content. Overall, these results provide important information about the peeling effect on the physical and chemical properties of Anggun 1. The information could be used as adding value to healthy food in the Malaysian diet due to the nutritional value of sweet potato.
Characterization of Volatile Organic Compounds in ‘Rossa di Tropea’ Onion by Means of Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HS/SPME GC–MS) and Sensory Analysis
Authors: Taglienti Anna , Araniti Fabrizio , Piscopo Amalia , Tiberini Antonio
Published: April 2021

Background: Plant viral infections induce changes in the host plant, which can potentially impact composition, organoleptic properties, and storability characteristics of plant products. In particular, onion odor and flavor are determined mainly by volatile organic compounds, and changes upon infection with onion yellow dwarf virus may deeply influence these characters. Methods: A time-course study of volatile organic compounds in onion yellow dwarf virus-infected versus healthy ‘Rossa di Tropea’ onion bulbs was performed using headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry; sensory analysis performed at marketability stage of onion production was used to correlate such changes to the taste characteristics perceived by consumers. Results: Volatile organic compounds regulated in infection conditions were identified, mainly belonging to mono- and poly-sulfides classes. The most abundant compounds in the analyzed samples were propyl disulfide, allyl-isopropyl disulfide, and propanethiol; significantly different concentrations were observed for 7 out of 11 VOCs in virus-infected compared to healthy bulbs. Statistical analysis based on a partial least squares discriminant analysis model and hierarchical cluster analysis allowed us to cluster samples based on phytosanitary status and storage time and to identify the most responsible compounds for such classification. Conclusions: Onion yellow dwarf virus infection induces changes in volatile organic compounds in onion during storage. The impact of such regulated compounds on ‘Rossa di Tropea’ onion odor and flavor and correlation with sensory analysis are discussed.
Production of Virus-Free Garlic Plants through Somatic Embryogenesis
Authors: Kereša Snježana , Kurtović Katarina , Ban Smiljana Goreta , Vončina Darko , Jerčić Ivanka Habuš , Bolarić Snježana , Lazarević Boris , Godena Sara , Ban Dean , Mihovilović Anita Bošnjak
Published: April 2021

The present study was conducted to establish a protocol for the regeneration of virus-free garlic plants through somatic embryogenesis of two Croatian garlic ecotypes. Basal parts of cloves from mother plants were cultured on a full Murashige and Skoog (MS) or modified MS medium (¼ of KNO3 and NH4NO3 and 2xMgSO4) containing 0.1 mg L−1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) or 1 mg L−1 2,4-D + 0.5 mg L−1 kinetin (Kin) and representing four different treatments. Plants were regenerated in MS medium containing 0.1 mg L−1 2,4-D and rooted in a medium containing 0.05 mg L−1 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) + 0.005 mg L−1 6-(γ,γ-dimethylallylamino)purine (2iP). The presence of viruses (i.e., sanitary status) of the mother plants and regenerants was checked by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The mother plants were infected with onion yellow dwarf virus (OYDV) and leek yellow stripe virus (LYSV). In addition, the presence of garlic common latent virus (GCLV) was confirmed in four mother plants. Embryogenic callus developed in all four treatments with success ranging from 55% to 81% depending on treatment and ecotype. Plant conversion was significantly higher in somatic embryos developed in media containing 0.1 mg L−1 2,4-D than those developed in media containing 1 mg L−1 2,4-D + 0.5 mg L−1 Kin. Virus elimination success ranged from 13.3% up to 62.5% depending on garlic ecotype and treatment. The overall rate of virus elimination by somatic embryogenesis for both treatments and ecotypes were 20.7%, 22.9%, and 30.5% for OYDV, GCLV, and LYSV, respectively. Based on these results, somatic embryogenesis has been shown to be equally or more successful in eliminating garlic viruses compared to other in vitro methods.
Optimizing Carbon Sequestration in Croplands: A Synthesis
Authors: Tiefenbacher Alexandra , Sandén Taru , Haslmayr Hans-Peter , Miloczki Julia , Wenzel Walter , Spiegel Heide
Published: April 2021

Climate change and ensuring food security for an exponentially growing global human population are the greatest challenges for future agriculture. Improved soil management practices are crucial to tackle these problems by enhancing agro-ecosystem productivity, soil fertility, and carbon sequestration. To meet Paris climate treaty pledges, soil management must address validated approaches for carbon sequestration and stabilization. The present synthesis assesses a range of current and potential future agricultural management practices (AMP) that have an effect on soil organic carbon (SOC) storage and sequestration. Through two strategies—increasing carbon inputs (e.g., enhanced primary production, organic fertilizers) and reducing SOC losses (e.g., reducing soil erosion, managing soil respiration)—AMP can either sequester, up to 714 ± 404 (compost) kg C ha−1 y−1, having no distinct impact (mineral fertilization), or even reduce SOC stocks in the topsoil (bare fallow). Overall, the carbon sequestration potential of the subsoil (>40 cm) requires further investigation. Moreover, climate change, permanent soil sealing, consumer behavior in dietary habits and waste production, as well as the socio-economic constraints of farmers (e.g., information exchange, long-term economic profitability) are important factors for implementing new AMPs. This calls for life-cycle assessments of those practices.
Ultrasound-Guided Funicular Block: Ropivacaine Injection into the Tissue around the Spermatic Cord to Improve Analgesia during Orchiectomy in Dogs
Authors: Cicirelli Vincenzo , Debidda Pasquale , Maggio Nicola , Caira Michele , Lacalandra Giovanni M. , Aiudi Giulio G.
Published: April 2021

Orchiectomy is a common surgical procedure performed on small animals, and it requires postoperative pain management despite its relative simplicity. This study aimed to evaluate the hemodynamic stability, intraoperative administration of additional hypnotic and/or analgesic drugs, and postoperative pain scores following the combination of ultrasound-guided injection of ropivacaine hydrochloride into the spermatic cord and infiltration by the same anaesthetic of the incisional prescrotal line (ROP) or general anaesthesia. Dogs in the ROP group showed greater intraoperative hemodynamic stability and lower pain scores than the control group. The locoregional approach used in this study proved effective in minimising the responses to the surgical stimulus and ensured adequate analgesia intra- and postoperatively. This method, called ultrasound-guided funicular block, allows orchiectomy to be performed under deep sedation without general anaesthesia.
Aminoglycosides in the Intensive Care Unit: What Is New in Population PK Modeling?
Authors: Duong Alexandre , Simard Chantale , Wang Yi Le , Williamson David , Marsot Amélie
Published: April 2021

Background: Although aminoglycosides are often used as treatment for Gram-negative infections, optimal dosing regimens remain unclear, especially in ICU patients. This is due to a large between- and within-subject variability in the aminoglycoside pharmacokinetics in this population. Objective: This review provides comprehensive data on the pharmacokinetics of aminoglycosides in patients hospitalized in the ICU by summarizing all published PopPK models in ICU patients for amikacin, gentamicin, and tobramycin. The objective was to determine the presence of a consensus on the structural model used, significant covariates included, and therapeutic targets considered during dosing regimen simulations. Method: A literature search was conducted in the Medline/PubMed database, using the terms: ‘amikacin’, ‘gentamicin’, ‘tobramycin’, ‘pharmacokinetic(s)’, ‘nonlinear mixed effect’, ‘population’, ‘intensive care’, and ‘critically ill’. Results: Nineteen articles were retained where amikacin, gentamicin, and tobramycin pharmacokinetics were described in six, 11, and five models, respectively. A two-compartment model was used to describe amikacin and tobramycin pharmacokinetics, whereas a one-compartment model majorly described gentamicin pharmacokinetics. The most recurrent significant covariates were renal clearance and bodyweight. Across all aminoglycosides, mean interindividual variability in clearance and volume of distribution were 41.6% and 22.0%, respectively. A common consensus for an optimal dosing regimen for each aminoglycoside was not reached. Conclusions: This review showed models developed for amikacin, from 2015 until now, and for gentamicin and tobramycin from the past decades. Despite the growing challenges of external evaluation, the latter should be more considered during model development. Further research including new covariates, additional simulated dosing regimens, and external validation should be considered to better understand aminoglycoside pharmacokinetics in ICU patients.
Micromechanism of the Breakage of Two Spherical Gypsum Particles under Normal–Tangential Contact Conditions
Authors: Niu Yiran , Li Lin , Zhang Yanwei , Yu Shicai , Zhou Jian
Published: April 2021

Contact breakage of particles makes a large difference in the strength of coarse-grained soils, and exploring the characteristics within the process of the breakage is of great significance. Ignoring the influence of particle shape, the micromechanism of two spherical particles breaking under normal–tangential contact conditions was investigated theoretically and experimentally. Through theoretical analysis, the breakage form, the shape and size of the conical core, and the relationship between the normal and tangential forces at crushing were predicted. Particle contact tests of two gypsum spheres were carried out, in which the breakage forms, features of the conical cores and the normal and tangential forces at crushing were recorded for comparison with the predicted values. The test results and the theoretical predictions showed good agreement. Both the analysis and test demonstrate that the presence of tangential forces causes the conical core to assume the shape of an oblique cone, and the breakage form to change. Moreover, with increasing normal contact force, the tangential force needed for crushing increases gradually first and then decreases suddenly.
The Use of Right Angle Fluorescence Spectroscopy to Distinguish the Botanical Origin of Greek Common Honey Varieties
Authors: Xagoraris Marinos , Revelou Panagiota-Kyriaki , Alissandrakis Eleftherios , Tarantilis Petros A. , Pappas Christos S.
Published: April 2021

The standardization of the botanical origin of honey reflects the commercial value and quality of honey. Nowadays, most consumers are looking for a unifloral honey. The aim of the present study was to develop a novel method for honey classification using chemometric models based on phenolic compounds analyzed with right angle fluorescence spectroscopy, coupled with stepwise linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The deconstructed spectrum from three-dimensional-emission excitation matrix (3D-EEM) spectra provided a correct classification score of 94.9% calibration and cross-validation at an excitation wavelength (λex) of 330 nm. Subsequently, a score of 81.4% and 79.7%, respectively, at an excitation wavelength (λex) of 360 nm was achieved. Each chemometric model confirmed its power through the external validation with a score of 82.1% for both. Differentiation could be correlated with hydroxycinnamic and hydroxybenzoic acids, which absorb in this region of the spectrum. Fluorescence spectroscopy constitutes a rapid and sensitive technique, which, when combined with the stepwise algorithm and LDA method, can be used as a reliable and predictive authentication tool for honey. This study indicates that the developed methodology is a promising technique for determination of the botanical origin of common Greek honey varieties. Our long-term ambition is to support producers and suppliers to remain in a competitive national and international market.
Real-Time Location-Positioning Technologies for Managing Cart Operations at a Distribution Facility
Authors: Cheng Chun-Hung , Kuo Yong-Hong , Lam Ho , Petering Matthew
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we propose an RFID-based location-positioning platform for managing cart operations at vast and fast-moving distribution facilities. Our work was motivated by a real-world problem in a large airmail center. Our system requires that each cart is affixed with an active RFID tag, and RFID readers are installed at multiple locations of the facility. The locations of the tagged carts are determined by the estimated angles of arrival communication signals between the readers and the tags and the signal strengths, and the information about their positions are stored in the platform continuously. This platform enables the users to locate tagged objects in real time, thereby saving staff members a significant amount of time from searching for the right carts in the highly dynamic environment. Consequently, the mail facility can benefit from the increased efficiency. Furthermore, the system is also able to reduce the chance of having a delay in delivering mail bags to unit load device (ULD) area and misplacements of mail bags to ULDs. We further analyze the the huge amount of historical data collected from the RFID infrastructure of the airmail center for the cart movements within the facility and observed previously unrecognized operational issues. We also discuss some of the challenges and problems faced in this project. We believe that this application can bring huge benefits to businesses and organizations along supply chains by effectively anticipating the increasing demand for logistics services in the age of electronic retailing.
Oral Microbiome and Host Health: Review on Current Advances in Genome-Wide Analysis
Authors: Cho Young-Dan , Kim Kyoung-Hwa , Lee Yong-Moo , Ku Young , Seol Yang-Jo
Published: April 2021

The oral microbiome is an important part of the human microbiome. The oral cavity has the second largest microbiota after the intestines, and its open structure creates a special environment. With the development of technology such as next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics, extensive in-depth microbiome studies have become possible. They can also be applied in the clinical field in terms of diagnosis and treatment. Many microbiome studies have been performed on oral and systemic diseases, showing a close association between the two. Understanding the oral microbiome and host interaction is expected to provide future directions to explore the functional and metabolic changes in diseases, and to uncover the molecular mechanisms for drug development and treatment that facilitate personalized medicine. The aim of this review was to provide comprehension regarding research trends in oral microbiome studies and establish the link between oral microbiomes and systemic diseases based on the latest technique of genome-wide analysis.
An Innovative and Cost-Advantage CAD Solution for Cubitus Varus Surgical Planning in Children
Authors: Frizziero Leonardo , Santi Gian Maria , Leon-Cardenas Christian , Donnici Giampiero , Liverani Alfredo , Napolitano Francesca , Papaleo Paola , Pagliari Curzio , Antonioli Diego , Stallone Stefano , Di Gennaro Giovanni Luigi , Trisolino Giovanni , Zarantonello Paola
Published: April 2021

The study of CAD (computer aided design) modeling, design and manufacturing techniques has undergone a rapid growth over the past decades. In medicine, this development mainly concerned the dental and maxillofacial sectors. Significant progress has also been made in orthopedics with pre-operative CAD simulations, printing of bone models and production of patient-specific instruments. However, the traditional procedure that formulates the surgical plan based exclusively on two-dimensional images and interventions performed without the aid of specific instruments for the patient and is currently the most used surgical technique. The production of custom-made tools for the patient, in fact, is often expensive and its use is limited to a few hospitals. The purpose of this study is to show an innovative and cost-effective procedure aimed at prototyping a custom-made surgical guide for address the cubitus varus deformity on a pediatric patient. The cutting guides were obtained through an additive manufacturing process that starts from the 3D digital model of the patient’s bone and allows to design specific models using Creo Parametric. The result is a tool that adheres perfectly to the patient’s bone and guides the surgeon during the osteotomy procedure. The low cost of the methodology described makes it worth noticing by any health institution.
Autonomous Balloon Controls for Protection against Projectiles with Known Destinations
Authors: Kim Jonghoek
Published: April 2021

This article tackles autonomous balloon controls for protection against projectiles with known destinations. We introduce a defense strategy against an enemy projectile trying to reach a destination, such as a military base, which is known a priori. We further assume that the position of the platform that launches the projectile is known in advance. Because both the platform and the projectile’s destination are known in advance, we can predict the trajectory of the projectile before the projectile is launched. The proposed defense strategy is to deploy multiple balloons on the projectile’s feasible paths so that they block the incoming projectile effectively. Each balloon has GPS sensors for locating itself and IR sensors to detect an incoming projectile. Once the projectile is sufficiently close to a balloon, the balloon explodes to destroy the projectile. Since the projectile’s purpose is reaching its destination, the balloons can effectively intercept the projectile using this blocking strategy. As far as we know, this article is novel in utilizing multiple balloons for protection against an enemy projectile. The effectiveness of our defense strategy is further verified utilizing MATLAB simulations.
Telomerase in Brain: The New Kid on the Block and Its Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Saretzki Gabriele , Wan Tengfei
Published: April 2021

Telomerase is an enzyme that in its canonical function extends and maintains telomeres, the ends of chromosomes. This reverse transcriptase function is mainly important for dividing cells that shorten their telomeres continuously. However, there are a number of telomere-independent functions known for the telomerase protein TERT (Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase). This includes the shuttling of the TERT protein from the nucleus to mitochondria where it decreases oxidative stress, apoptosis sensitivity and DNA damage. Recently, evidence has accumulated on a protective role of TERT in brain and postmitotic neurons. This function might be able to ameliorate the effects of toxic proteins such as amyloid-β, pathological tau and α-synuclein involved in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the protective mechanisms of TERT are not clear yet. Recently, an activation of autophagy as an important protein degradation process for toxic neuronal proteins by TERT has been described. This review summarises the current knowledge about the non-canonical role of the telomerase protein TERT in brain and shows its potential benefit for the amelioration of brain ageing and neurodegenerative diseases such as AD and PD. This might form the basis for the development of novel strategies and therapies against those diseases.
Quantitative EEG (QEEG) Analysis of Emotional Interaction between Abusers and Victims in Intimate Partner Violence: A Pilot Study
Authors: Weon Hee-Wook , Byun Youn-Eon , Lim Hyun-Ja
Published: April 2021

Background: The perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV) and their victims have different emotional states. Abusers typically have problems associated with low self-esteem, low self-awareness, violence, anger, and communication, whereas victims experience mental distress and physical pain. The emotions surrounding IPV for both abuser and victim are key influences on their behavior and their relationship. Methods: The objective of this pilot study was to examine emotional and psychological interactions between IPV abusers and victims using quantified electroencephalogram (QEEG). Two abuser–victim case couples and one non-abusive control couple were recruited from the Mental Image Recovery Program for domestic violence victims in Seoul, South Korea, from 7–30 June 2017. Data collection and analysis were conducted using BrainMaster and NeuroGuide. The emotional pattern characteristics between abuser and victim were examined and compared to those of the non-abusive couple. Results: Emotional states and reaction patterns were different for the non-abusive and IPV couples. Strong delta, theta, and beta waves in the right frontal and left prefrontal lobes were observed in IPV case subjects. This indicated emotional conflict, anger, and a communication block or impaired communication between abuser and victim. Conclusions: Our study findings suggest brainwave control training via neurofeedback could be a possible therapy in managing emotional and communication problems related to IPV.
Influence of Cs Loading on Pt/m-ZrO2 Water–Gas Shift Catalysts
Authors: Rajabi Zahra , Martinelli Michela , Watson Caleb D. , Cronauer Donald C. , Kropf A. Jeremy , Jacobs Gary
Published: April 2021

Certain alkali metals (Na, K) at targeted loadings have been shown in recent decades to significantly promote the LT-WGS reaction. This occurs at alkali doping levels where a redshift in the C-H band of formate occurs, indicating electronic weakening of the bond. The C-H bond breaking of formate is the proposed rate-limiting step of the formate associative mechanism, lending support to the occurrence of this mechanism in H2-rich environments of the LT-WGS stage of fuel processors. Continuing in this vein of research, 2%Pt/m-ZrO2 was promoted with various levels of Cs in order to explore its influence on the rate of formate intermediate decomposition, as well as that of LT-WGS in a fixed bed reactor. In situ DRIFTS experiments revealed that Cs promoter loadings of 3.87% to 7.22% resulted in significant acceleration of the forward formate decomposition in steam at 130 °C. Of all of the alkali metals tested to date, the redshift in the formate ν(CH) band with the incorporation of Cs was the greatest. XANES difference experiments at the Pt L2 and L3 edges indicated that the electronic effect was not likely due to an enrichment of electronic density on Pt. CO2 TPD experiments revealed that, unlike Na and K promoters, Cs behaves more like Rb in that the decomposition of the second intermediate in LT-WGS, carbonate species, is hindered due to (1) increased basicity of Cs, (2) the tendency of Cs to cover Pt sites that facilitate CO2 decomposition, and (3) the tendency of Cs to increase Pt particle size as shown by EXAFS results, resulting in fewer Pt sites that facilitate CO2 decomposition. As such, the LT-WGS rate was hindered overall and the rate-limiting step shifted to carbonate decomposition (CO2 removal). Like its Rb counterpart, low levels of added Cs (e.g., 0.72%Cs) were found to improve the stability of the catalyst relative to the unpromoted catalyst; the stability comparison was made at similar CO conversion level as well as similar space velocity.
The Dynamic Interaction between Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Breast Tumor Progression
Authors: Martinez Jorge , Smith Patricio C.
Published: April 2021

Desmoplastic tumors correspond to a unique tissue structure characterized by the abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix. Breast tumors are a typical example of this type of lesion, a property that allows its palpation and early detection. Fibrillar type I collagen is a major component of tumor desmoplasia and its accumulation is causally linked to tumor cell survival and metastasis. For many years, the desmoplastic phenomenon was considered to be a reaction and response of the host tissue against tumor cells and, accordingly, designated as “desmoplastic reaction”. This notion has been challenged in the last decades when desmoplastic tissue was detected in breast tissue in the absence of tumor. This finding suggests that desmoplasia is a preexisting condition that stimulates the development of a malignant phenotype. With this perspective, in the present review, we analyze the role of extracellular matrix remodeling in the development of the desmoplastic response. Importantly, during the discussion, we also analyze the impact of obesity and cell metabolism as critical drivers of tissue remodeling during the development of desmoplasia. New knowledge derived from the dynamic remodeling of the extracellular matrix may lead to novel targets of interest for early diagnosis or therapy in the context of breast tumors.