bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Immediate Blanket Treatment versus a Delayed Pathogen-Based Treatment Protocol for Clinical Mastitis Using an On-Farm Culture Test at a Commercial German Dairy Farm
Authors: Borchardt Stefan , Heuwieser Wolfgang
Published: March 2022

The objective of this study was to compare immediate intramammary antimicrobial treatment of mild and moderate cases of clinical mastitis (CM) with a selective treatment protocol based on on-farm culture results using Accumast®. The study was conducted at a 2600 cow commercial farm in Northeast Germany. Using a randomized design, mild and moderate clinical mastitis cases were assigned to either the blanket therapy (BT) or pathogen-based therapy (SELECT) group. Overall, 468 cases were used for final analyses (BT = 236; SELECT = 232). The percentage of cases assigned to the blanket and pathogen-based groups that received intramammary therapy were 100 and 69.9%, respectively. Implementation of a pathogen-based treatment protocol for mild and moderate CM cases resulted in no significant difference in post-event milk production, somatic cell count, survival to 30 d, and days spent in the hospital compared with a blanket therapy protocol. Cows in the SELECT group had reduced odds of being culled within 60 d post CM (odds ratio = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.31–0.93; p = 0.027). The use of a pathogen-based treatment protocol using an on-farm culture system has the potential to efficiently reduce antimicrobial use without negative effects on health.
HDL Accessory Proteins in Parkinson’s Disease—Focusing on Clusterin (Apolipoprotein J) in Regard to Its Involvement in Pathology and Diagnostics—A Review
Authors: Berdowska Izabela , Matusiewicz Małgorzata , Krzystek-Korpacka Małgorzata
Published: March 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD)—a neurodegenerative disorder (NDD) characterized by progressive destruction of dopaminergic neurons within the substantia nigra of the brain—is associated with the formation of Lewy bodies containing mainly α-synuclein. HDL-related proteins such as paraoxonase 1 and apolipoproteins A1, E, D, and J are implicated in NDDs, including PD. Apolipoprotein J (ApoJ, clusterin) is a ubiquitous, multifunctional protein; besides its engagement in lipid transport, it modulates a variety of other processes such as immune system functionality and cellular death signaling. Furthermore, being an extracellular chaperone, ApoJ interacts with proteins associated with NDD pathogenesis (amyloid β, tau, and α-synuclein), thus modulating their properties. In this review, the association of clusterin with PD is delineated, with respect to its putative involvement in the pathological mechanism and its application in PD prognosis/diagnosis.
Exploring the Use of Iris Species: Antioxidant Properties, Phytochemistry, Medicinal and Industrial Applications
Authors: Khatib Sohaib , Faraloni Cecilia , Bouissane Latifa
Published: March 2022

The genus Iris from the Iridaceae family consists of more than 262 recognized species. It is an ornamental and medicinal plant widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. Iris species convey a long history as valuable traditional drugs with a wide variety of applications in various cultures, having been recorded since medieval times. Currently, Iris spp. still find application in numerous fields, including cosmetics, pharmaceutics and the food industry. Moreover, many of their empirical uses have been validated by in vitro and in vivo studies, showing that Iris spp. exhibit potent antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-microbial properties. Phytochemicals investigations have revealed that the plant extracts are rich in phenolic compounds, especially flavonoids and phenolic acids. As such, they constitute a promising lead for seeking new drugs with high susceptibilities towards various health issues, particularly oxidative-stress-related diseases such as cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, etc. Herein, we present a literature review of the genus Iris intending to determine the plant’s chemical profile and establish a coherent overview of the biological applications of the plant extracts with reference to their traditional uses.
Dynamic Changes in the Export Competitiveness of the South Korean Oil Refining Industry
Authors: Baek Chulwoo , Yoo Seung-Hoon
Published: March 2022

South Korea relies on imports for most of its oil consumption, but its oil refining industry has grown into one of the most important national industries and ranks fifth in the world in terms of refining capacity. This study seeks to examine the export competitiveness of the South Korean oil refining industry over the period 2000–2019. To this end, an analysis of the trade specialization index, the revealed comparative advantage, and the 2 × 2 matrix of these two measurements is carried out. The results show that automobile gasoline, jet oil, and lubricant oil belonged to the ‘high competitiveness group’ for the entire period, whereas naphtha belonged to the ‘import-specialized group with comparative advantage’ for the entire period. Finally, aviation gasoline, bunker A oil, bunker B oil, and bunker C oil fluctuated between the ‘low competitiveness group’ and the ‘export-specialized group with comparative disadvantage’. To enhance the export competitiveness of the oil refining industry, this research suggests reorganizing the irrational tax structure and actively utilizing by-products generated during the refining process.
A Smartphone-Based Mobility Assistant Using Depth Imaging for Visually Impaired and Blind
Authors: See Aaron Raymond , Sasing Bien Grenier , Advincula Welsey Daniel
Published: March 2022

The means of assisting visually impaired and blind (VIB) people when travelling usually relies on other people. Assistive devices have been developed to assist in blind navigation, but many technologies require users to purchase more devices and they lack flexibility, thus making it inconvenient for VIB users. In this research, we made use of a mobile phone with a depth camera function for obstacle avoidance and object recognition. It includes a mobile application that is controlled using simple voice and gesture controls to assist in navigation. The proposed system gathers depth values from 23 coordinate points that are analyzed to determine whether an obstacle is present in the head area, torso area, or ground area, or is a full body obstacle. In order to provide a reliable warning system, the research detects outdoor objects within a distance of 1.6 m. Subsequently, the object detection function includes a unique interactable feature that enables interaction with the user and the device in finding indoor objects by providing an audio and vibration feedback, and users were able to locate their desired objects more than 80% of the time. In conclusion, a flexible and portable system was developed using a depth camera-enabled mobile phone for use in obstacle detection without the need to purchase additional hardware devices.
Ranking of Basin-Scale Factors Affecting Metal Concentrations in River Sediment
Authors: Lotz Tom , Opp Christian
Published: March 2022

River sediments often contain potentially harmful pollutants such as metals. Much research has been conducted to identify factors involved in sediment concentrations of metals. While most metal pollution studies focus on smaller scales, it has been shown that basin-scale parameters are powerful predictors of river water quality. The present study focused on basin-scale factors of metal concentrations in river sediments. The study was performed on the contiguous USA using Random Forest (R.F.) to analyze the importance of different factors of the metal pollution potential of river sediments and evaluate the possibility of assessing this potential from basin characteristics. Results indicated that the most important factors belonged to the groups Geology, Dams, and Land cover. Rock characteristics (contents of K2O, CaO, and SiO2) and reservoir drainage area were strong factors. Vegetation indices were more important than land cover types. The response of different metals to basin-scale factors varied greatly. The R.F. models performed well with prediction errors of 16.5% to 28.1%, showing that basin-scale parameters hold sufficient information for predicting potential metal concentrations. The results contribute to research and policymaking dependent on understanding large-scale factors of metal pollution.
Comparative Analysis of Fatty Acid Profile and Fat-Soluble Vitamin Content in Sheep and Goat Milk of Organic and Conventional Origin
Authors: Gortzi Olga , Malissiova Eleni , Katsoulis Kostas , Alibade Aggeliki , Liappis Dimitrios , Lalas Stavros , Graikou Konstantia
Published: March 2022

Consumers tend to perceive organic foods as more nutritious and safer in comparison to conventional, due to the perception that organic food is eco- and animal-friendly. Since fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins in dairy produce are important nutrients, this study aims to assess possible differences in the amount of these components included in organic and conventional ewes and goat raw milk in Greece, while identifying the potential determining factors. A total of 48 samples were collected from organic and conventional sheep and goat farms in Greece (Thessaly) during the lactation period. A standardized questionnaire, including information about the farming system, and a sampling protocol were completed. Samples were studied for the fat-soluble vitamins (all-trans-retinol and α-tocopherol) and the fatty acids profile, while the outcomes were statistically analyzed to explore any associations with the questionnaire data for potential factors affecting the results. According to the obtained results there are slight differences in milk fatty acid content, which indicates that organic and conventional sheep and goat milk in Greece do not have any substantial differences in terms of feeding strategies. Regarding the content of fat-soluble vitamins, the organic milk is generally found to contain a higher amount than the conventional one.
The 27 September 2021 Earthquake in Central Crete (Greece)—Detailed Analysis of the Earthquake Sequence and Indications for Contemporary Arc-Parallel Extension to the Hellenic Arc
Authors: Vassilakis Emmanuel , Kaviris George , Kapetanidis Vasilis , Papageorgiou Elena , Foumelis Michael , Konsolaki Aliki , Petrakis Stelios , Evangelidis Christos P. , Alexopoulos John , Karastathis Vassilios , Voulgaris Nicholas , Tselentis Gerassimos-Akis
Published: March 2022

The Arkalochori village in central Crete was hit by a large earthquake (Mw = 6.0) on 27 September 2021, causing casualties, injuries, and severe damage to the infrastructure. Due to the absence of apparent surface rupture and the initial focal mechanism solution of the seismic event, we initiated complementary, multi-disciplinary research by combining seismological and remote sensing data processing, followed by extensive field validation. Detailed geological mapping, fault surface measuring accompanied with tectonic analysis, fault photorealistic model creation by unmanned aerial system data processing, post-seismic surface deformation analysis by DInSAR image interpretation coupled with accurately relocated epicenters recorded by locally established seismographs have been carried out. The combination of the results obtained from these techniques led to the determination of the contemporary tectonic stress regime that caused the earthquake in central Crete, which was found compatible with extensional processes parallel to the Hellenic arc.
Study on Flow Field Characteristics in Sandstorm Conditions Using Wind Tunnel Test
Authors: Huang Bin , Li Zhengnong , Zhang Zhitian , Zhao Zhefei , Gong Bo , Xiao Tianyin
Published: March 2022

To study the sandstorm resistance design of civil structures and transportation infrastructures, the sandstorm flow fields with various grain concentrations were simulated by the windblown sand tunnel. The results show that the grain concentration profile presents an exponential decay form before the critical wind speed; as the test speed increases, the grain concentration decreases initially and increases afterwards with height, and the characteristic height of moving grain increases while the creep percentage decreases. Moving sand grains reduce wind speed and increase turbulence intensity, and the whole process is affected by grain concentration. The moving grain and the turbulence of the sandstorm flow field form a mutual feedback mechanism, which affects the wind-induced response and impact response to structures. The variation of kinetic energy with height is similar to that of total energy with height in the sandstorm flow fields. Specifically, the grain energy increases with increasing concentration and wind speed, but decreases initially and increases afterwards with height. Furthermore, the critical heights of the grain energy and concentration profile are both about 0.2 m, which has little impact on structures.
Estimation Methods of the Multiple-Group One-Dimensional Factor Model: Implied Identification Constraints in the Violation of Measurement Invariance
Authors: Robitzsch Alexander
Published: March 2022

Factor analysis is one of the most important statistical tools for analyzing multivariate data (i.e., items) in the social sciences. An essential case is the comparison of multiple groups on a one-dimensional factor variable that can be interpreted as a summary of the items. The assumption of measurement invariance is a frequently employed assumption that enables the comparison of the factor variable across groups. This article discusses different estimation methods of the multiple-group one-dimensional factor model under violations of measurement invariance (i.e., measurement noninvariance). In detail, joint estimation, linking methods, and regularized estimation approaches are treated. It is argued that linking approaches and regularization approaches can be equivalent to joint estimation approaches if appropriate (robust) loss functions are employed. Each of the estimation approaches defines identification constraints of parameters that quantify violations of measurement invariance. We argue in the discussion section that the fitted multiple-group one-dimensional factor analysis will likely be misspecified due to the violation of measurement invariance. Hence, because there is always indeterminacy in determining group comparisons of the factor variable under noninvariance, the preference of particular fitting strategies such as partial invariance over alternatives is unjustified. In contrast, researchers purposely define fitting functions that minimize the extent of model misspecification due to the choice of a particular (robust) loss function.
Cardiac Calcifications: Phenotypes, Mechanisms, Clinical and Prognostic Implications
Authors: Vieceli Dalla Sega Francesco , Fortini Francesca , Severi Paolo , Rizzo Paola , Gardi Iija , Cimaglia Paolo , Rapezzi Claudio , Tavazzi Luigi , Ferrari Roberto
Published: March 2022

There is a growing interest in arterial and heart valve calcifications, as these contribute to cardiovascular outcome, and are leading predictors of cardiovascular and kidney diseases. Cardiovascular calcifications are often considered as one disease, but, in effect, they represent multifaced disorders, occurring in different milieus and biological phenotypes, following different pathways. Herein, we explore each different molecular process, its relative link with the specific clinical condition, and the current therapeutic approaches to counteract calcifications. Thus, first, we explore the peculiarities between vascular and valvular calcium deposition, as this occurs in different tissues, responds differently to shear stress, has specific etiology and time courses to calcification. Then, we differentiate the mechanisms and pathways leading to hyperphosphatemic calcification, typical of the media layer of the vessel and mainly related to chronic kidney diseases, to those of inflammation, typical of the intima vascular calcification, which predominantly occur in atherosclerotic vascular diseases. Finally, we examine calcifications secondary to rheumatic valve disease or other bacterial lesions and those occurring in autoimmune diseases. The underlying clinical conditions of each of the biological calcification phenotypes and the specific opportunities of therapeutic intervention are also considered and discussed.
Effect of a Single Intrauterine Dose of Human Recombinant Galectin-1 Buffered on Pregnancy Rate in Inseminated Cows
Authors: Morani Erika da Silva Carvalho , Penha Helen Alves , Baldi Rey Fernando Sebastián , Roncoletta Marcelo
Published: March 2022

The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of a single dose of exogenous galectin-1 in improving the pregnancy rate in inseminated cows, comparing the pregnancy rate of the two groups (treatment and control Groups) into 107 contemporary groups (YG) established. An ultrasound exam determined the pregnancy rate performed 25 to 35 days after the fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) of breeding beef cows (n = 3469). The pregnancy rate of cows that received a single dose of eGAL-1 (200 ± 10 µg), with an intrauterine administration (n = 1901), was compared with the pregnancy rate of cows inseminated using a conventional AI protocol (n = 1568), both comparing into the same YG. YGs were created considering the grouping of cows belonging to the same farm, with the same nutritional score and management, inseminated by the same inseminator and semen batch, and using the same estrus synchronization protocol). The statistical method used calculated the probability of obtaining pregnancy within each group. The administration of a single dose of eGAL-1 can increase the probability of obtaining pregnancy in beef cows by up to 8.68% (p < 0.0001), suggesting that a single dose of eGAL-1 during the FTAI procedure was reasonable in the beef cattle AI routine and can improve the pregnancy rate considerably.
Isolation of Functional SARS-CoV-2 Antigen-Specific T-Cells with Specific Viral Cytotoxic Activity for Adoptive Therapy of COVID-19
Authors: García-Ríos Estéfani , Leivas Alejandra , Mancebo Francisco J. , Sánchez-Vega Laura , Lanzarot Diego , Aguado José María , Martínez-López Joaquín , Paciello María Liz , Pérez-Romero Pilar
Published: March 2022

In order to demonstrate the feasibility of preparing clinical-grade SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cells from convalescent donors and the ability of these cells to neutralize the virus in vitro, we used blood collected from two COVID-19 convalescent donors (before and after vaccination) that was stimulated with specific SARS-CoV-2 peptides followed by automated T-cell isolation using the CliniMacs Prodigy medical device. To determine cytotoxic activity, HEK 293T cells were transfected to express the SARS-CoV-2 M protein, mimicking SARS-CoV-2 infection. We were able to quickly and efficiently isolate SARS-CoV-2-specific T lymphocytes from both donors before and after they received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Althoughbefore vaccination, the final product contained up to 7.42% and 30.19% of IFN-γ+ CD3+ T-cells from donor 1 and donor 2, respectively, we observed an enrichment of the IFN-γ+ CD3+ T-cells after vaccination, reaching 70.47% and 42.59%, respectively. At pre-vaccination, the isolated SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cells exhibited cytotoxic activity that was significantly higher than that of unstimulated controls (donor 2: 15.41%, p-value 3.27 × 10−3). The cytotoxic activity of the isolated SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cells also significantly increased after vaccination (donor 1: 32.71%, p-value 1.44 × 10−5; donor 2: 33.38%, p-value 3.13 × 10−6). In conclusion, we demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cells can quickly and efficiently be stimulated from the blood of convalescent donors using SARS-CoV-2-specific peptides followed by automated isolation. Vaccinated convalescent donors have a higher percentage of SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cells and may be more suitable as donors. Although further studies are needed to assess the clinical utility of the functional isolated SARS-CoV-2-specific T-cells in patients, previous studies using the same stimulation and isolation methods applied to other pathologies support this idea.
Monitoring and Calculation Study in Mediterranean Residential Spaces: Thermal Performance Comparison for the Winter Season
Authors: Santana Bruno Oliveira , Torres-Quezada Jefferson , Coch Helena , Isalgue Antonio
Published: March 2022

In cold regions, the reduction in envelope thermal transmittance is often the dominant parameter in ensuring thermal comfort in buildings. However, countries in warmer climates have also adopted this same strategy, often neglecting other parameters that are more influential in their respective climate regions that can achieve thermal comfort. This study focuses on passive building strategies to ensure a building’s thermal comfort conditions in Mediterranean climates in the winter. This monitoring study compares two dwellings during the winter in Barcelona, Spain, in order to analyze the impact of not only the envelope’s thermal properties on indoor temperature, but also the role of other factors such as outdoor temperature and solar gains. The dwellings were built in different decades, each following distinct building technical codes, diverse construction techniques, and building materials. The methodology used in this study is based on thermal measurements, meteorological data, and spreadsheet calculations. Comparing these results with the recent updates in Spain’s technical code and other studies, the investigation demonstrates that to achieve a suitable indoor thermal temperature in a passive way, especially in Mediterranean climates, incorporating other factors such as the combination of thermal inertia and solar gains can be more effective than a strategy mainly focused on reducing thermal transmittance. This analysis demonstrates that a building’s thermal performance does not mainly depend on envelope thermal transmittance, but rather a complex system involving a set of variables such as thermal inertia as well as solar gains, based on parameters such as building orientation and urban context.
New Soil Stress Measurement Sensor Based on the Effect of Elastic Charging of Electrodes
Authors: Kuchumov Mikhail , Evtushenko Sergej
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this work was to develop a prototype of a soil stress sensor using a new technique for converting mechanical quantities, with functions for measuring stress changes in soils emerging under the action of a dynamic load associated with earthworks using construction machinery, impact of transport, underground explosions and earthquakes. The development is intended to solve problems in increasing the overall efficiency of monitoring buildings and structures and measurement accuracy. Within the framework of the study, the basic requirements for primary converters of mechanical quantities operating underground were formulated. The design solutions of such sensors, which affect the quality of the information received, have been evaluated. As a result of the study, a new effect of “elastic charging of the interfacial layer of a solid metal electrode” for measuring normal stress in soils was explored and proposed eligible for this purpose. Consequently it became possible to apply this new approach to developing the soil stress measurement sensor, including the creation of its functional scheme of operation, and selection of the hardware set, construction elements and materials taking into account the nature of sensor work. Eventually, laboratory experiments obtaining numerical characteristics were carried out.
Similar Outcomes in Minimally Invasive versus Open Management of Primary Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Regional, Multi-Institutional Collaborative Analysis
Authors: Sutton Thomas L. , Pommier Rodney F. , Mayo Skye C. , Gilbert Erin W. , Papavasiliou Pavlos , Babicky Michele , Gerry Jon , Sheppard Brett C. , Worth Patrick J.
Published: March 2022

In pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs), the impact of minimally invasive (MI) versus open resection on outcomes remains poorly studied. We queried a multi-institutional pancreatic cancer registry for patients with resected non-metastatic PNET from 1996–2020. Recurrence-free (RFS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and operative complications were evaluated. Two hundred and eighty-two patients were identified. Operations were open in 139 (49%) and MI in 143 (51%). Pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed in 77 (27%, n = 23 MI), distal pancreatectomy in 184 (65%, n = 109 MI), enucleation in 13 (5%), and total pancreatectomy in eight (3%). Median follow-up was 50 months. Thirty-six recurrences and 13 deaths from recurrent disease yielded 5-year RFS and DSS of 85% and 95%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, grade 1 (HR 0.07, p < 0.001) and grade 2 (HR 0.20, p = 0.002) tumors were associated with improved RFS, while T3/T4 tumors were associated with worse RFS (OR 2.78, p = 0.04). MI resection was not associated with RFS (HR 0.53, p = 0.14). There was insufficient mortality to evaluate DSS with multivariable analysis. Of 159 patients with available NSQIP data, incisional surgical site infections (SSIs), organ space SSIs, Grade B/C pancreatic fistulas, reoperations, and need for percutaneous drainage did not differ by operative approach (all p > 0.2). Nodal harvest was similar for MI versus open distal pancreatectomies (p = 0.16) and pancreaticoduodenectomies (p = 0.28). Minimally invasive surgical management of PNETs is equivalent for oncologic and postoperative outcomes.
Hyperglycemia and Loss of Redox Homeostasis in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Soto María Elena , Guarner-Lans Verónica , Díaz-Díaz Eulises , Manzano-Pech Linaloe , Palacios-Chavarría Adrían , Valdez-Vázquez Rafael Ricardo , Aisa-Álvarez Alfredo , Saucedo-Orozco Huitzilihuitl , Pérez-Torres Israel
Published: March 2022

The infection with SARS-CoV-2 impairs the glucose–insulin axis and this contributes to oxidative (OS) and nitrosative (NSS) stress. Here, we evaluated changes in glucose metabolism that could promote the loss of redox homeostasis in COVID-19 patients. This was comparative cohort and analytical study that compared COVID-19 patients and healthy subjects. The study population consisted of 61 COVID-19 patients with and without comorbidities and 25 healthy subjects (HS). In all subjects the plasma glucose, insulin, 8-isoprostane, Vitamin D, H2S and 3-nitrotyrosine were determined by ELISA. The nitrites (NO2−), lipid-peroxidation (LPO), total-antioxidant-capacity (TAC), thiols, glutathione (GSH) and selenium (Se) were determined by spectrophotometry. The glucose, insulin and HOMA-IR (p < 0.001), 8-isoprostanes, 3-nitrotyrosine (p < 0.001) and LPO were increased (p = 0.02) while Vitamin D (p = 0.01), H2S, thiols, TAC, GSH and Se (p < 0.001) decreased in COVID-19 patients in comparison to HS. The SARS-CoV-2 infection resulted in alterations in the glucose–insulin axis that led to hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia and IR in patients with and without comorbidities. These alterations increase OS and NSS reflected in increases or decreases in some oxidative markers in plasma with major impact or fatal consequences in patients that course with metabolic syndrome. Moreover, subjects without comorbidities could have long-term alterations in the redox homeostasis after infection.
Analyzing the Androgen Receptor Interactome in Prostate Cancer: Implications for Therapeutic Intervention
Authors: Dahiya Ujjwal R. , Heemers Hannelore V.
Published: March 2022

The androgen receptor (AR) is a member of the ligand-activated nuclear receptor family of transcription factors. AR’s transactivation activity is turned on by the binding of androgens, the male sex steroid hormones. AR is critical for the development and maintenance of the male phenotype but has been recognized to also play an important role in human diseases. Most notably, AR is a major driver of prostate cancer (CaP) progression, which remains the second leading cause of cancer deaths in American men. Androgen deprivation therapies (ADTs) that interfere with interactions between AR and its activating androgen ligands have been the mainstay for treatment of metastatic CaP. Although ADTs are effective and induce remissions, eventually they fail, while the growth of the majority of ADT-resistant CaPs remains under AR’s control. Alternative approaches to inhibit AR activity and bypass resistance to ADT are being sought, such as preventing the interaction between AR and its cofactors and coregulators that is needed to execute AR-dependent transcription. For such strategies to be efficient, the 3D conformation of AR complexes needs to be well-understood and AR-regulator interaction sites resolved. Here, we review current insights into these 3D structures and the protein interaction sites in AR transcriptional complexes. We focus on methods and technological approaches used to identify AR interactors and discuss challenges and limitations that need to be overcome for efficient therapeutic AR complex disruption.
Emotional Distress and Associated Factors among the General Population during the COVID-19 Pandemic in China: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Yang Lei , Sun Jingwen , Wang Duolao , Rahman Atif , Shi Zumin , Wang Youfa , Li Xiaomei
Published: March 2022

Objective: This study investigated emotional distress and associated factors among the general population in the aftermath of the COVID-19 lockdown in China. Design and sample: An online nationwide survey was conducted using a self-designed questionnaire, which included items related to demography, lifestyle, and experience of emotional distress during the previous month of the pandemic period. A total of 10,545 respondents completed the survey. Results: Over 30% of participants reported experiencing one or more symptoms of emotional distress to a moderate or higher degree. Increased emotional distress was associated with COVID-19-related impact on diet (β = −1.106, 95% CI: −1.187 to −1.026, p < 0.001), experiencing food shortage (β = 1.334, 95% CI: 1.117 to 1.551, p < 0.001), lack of physical exercise (β = −0.845, 95% CI: −1.024 to −0.667, p < 0.001), younger age (β = −0.050, 95% CI: −0.062 to −0.039, p < 0.001), being a smoker (β = 0.852, 95% CI: 0.604 to 1.100, p < 0.001), lower education level (β = −0.524, 95% CI: −0.702 to −0.346, p < 0.001), and lack of medical insurance (β = −0.742, 95% CI: −1.012 to −0.473, p < 0.001). Emotional distress was negatively associated time spent sleeping (β = −0.020, 95% CI: −0.027 to −0.013, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The levels of emotional distress are high in the aftermath of the lockdown and associated with a number of demographic and lifestyle factors.
An Investigation of the Pressure-Induced Structural Phase Transition of Nanocrystalline α-CuMoO4
Authors: Panchal Vinod , Popescu Catalin , Errandonea Daniel
Published: March 2022

The structural behavior of nanocrystalline α-CuMoO4 was studied at ambient temperature up to 2 GPa using in situ synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction. We found that nanocrystalline α-CuMoO4 undergoes a structural phase transition into γ-CuMoO4 at 0.5 GPa. The structural sequence is analogous to the behavior of its bulk counterpart, but the transition pressure is doubled. A coexistence of both phases was observed till 1.2 GPa. The phase transition gives rise to a change in the copper coordination from square-pyramidal to octahedral coordination. The transition involves a volume reduction of 13% indicating a first-order nature of the phase transition. This transformation was observed to be irreversible in nature. The pressure dependence of the unit-cell parameters was obtained and is discussed, and the compressibility analyzed.
Gynecologic Symptoms among Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer Patients on Oral Endocrine Therapy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Moskalewicz Alexandra , Di Tomaso Amy , Kachura Jacob J. , Scime Samantha , Nisenbaum Rosane , Lee Ronita , Haq Rashida , Derzko Christine , Brezden-Masley Christine
Published: March 2022

Endocrine therapy (ET) for hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer can contribute to gynecologic symptoms (GS) that impact vaginal health, sexual function, and quality of life (QoL). A cross-sectional study was conducted at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, Canada between July 2017 and June 2018 to examine the occurrence and frequency of GS among HR+ breast cancer patients on ET, patient-provider communication, female sexual dysfunction (FSD), and QoL. A Treatment Experience questionnaire was developed for this study and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Menopause-Specific Quality of Life questionnaire (MENQOL) were also administered. Of 151 patients surveyed, 77 (51.0%) were on tamoxifen and 74 (49.0%) on an aromatase inhibitor. Most patients (84.1%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 77.3% to 89.5%) experienced at least one GS “all the time” or “often”, or one or more infections, in the past year. Only 44 (31.9%) patients reported that their oncologist had ever previously asked them about experiencing GS. The prevalence of FSD was 61.2% (95% CI 46.2% to 74.8%) among 49 sexually active patients that completed the FSFI. Symptoms captured in the MENQOL’s vasomotor domain were deemed most bothersome. Side effect management and patient-provider communication should be prioritized to optimize GS, vaginal health, and sexual function of ET users.
Update on International Medical Taxonomies of Biomarkers and Their Applications in Management of Thyroid Cancers
Authors: Trovato Maria
Published: March 2022

Biomarkers (BMs) are medical signs which can be precisely measured and reproduced. Mainly, BMs provide information on the likely disease which can occur in an individual. On the other hand, BMs also signal disease recurrence in patients receiving therapy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration coupled with the National Institutes of Health and the European Medicines Agency have proposed two distinct procedures to validate BMs. These agencies have elaborated two glossaries to describe the role of BMs. The aim of this study was to investigate medical taxonomies adopted by different governmental agencies for BM validation. Additional goals were to analyze efficiencies of the validated and candidate BMs for thyroid cancers (TCs). Currently, thyroglobulin is validated for monitoring TCs. Sorafenib-tosylate, Doxorubicin-hydrochloride, Vandetanib, Cabozantinib-s-malate, Dabrafenib-mesylate, Trametinib-dimethyl-sulfoxide, Lenvatinib-mesylate, Pralsetinib and Selpercatinib are validated for TC treatment. Among candidate BMs for TC diagnosis, there are molecular combinations including BRAF, RAS, RET/PTC and PAX8-PPARγ mutations. Noteworthy are BRAF and RET/PTC alterations already validated as targets of Dabrafenib-mesylate, Pralsetinib and Selpercatinib. Finally, cellular expressions of c-met in nodal TC metastases have diagnostic imaging applications. On the basis of this analysis, BM taxonomies should have common standards internationally recognized. BMs show different efficiencies depending on their diagnostic or therapeutic use.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Defined by Fatty Liver Index and Incidence of Heart Failure in the Korean Population: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Han Byoungduck , Lee Gyu Bae , Yim Sun Young , Cho Kyung-Hwan , Shin Koh Eun , Kim Jung-Hwan , Park Yong-Gyu , Han Kyung-Do , Kim Yang-Hyun
Published: March 2022

Fatty liver index (FLI) is a simple and useful index that evaluates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), particularly in large epidemiologic studies. Heart failure (HF) is becoming a burden to public health as the global trend toward an aging society continues. Thus, we investigated the effect of FLI on the incidence of HF using large cohort data from the Korean National Health Insurance health database. Methods and Results: A total of 7,958,538 subjects aged over 19 years without baseline HF (men = 4,142,264 and women = 3,816,274) were included. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were evaluated. FLI scores were calculated and FLI ≥ 60 was considered as having NAFLD. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for HF incidence were analysed using multivariable time-dependent Cox proportional hazard models. During a mean follow up of 8.26 years, 17,104 participants developed HF. The FLI components associated with the incidence of HF and FLI showed a causal relationship with HF; the FLI ≥ 60 group had a higher HR for HF (HR 1.493; 95% CIs 1.41–1.581) than the FLI < 30 group. Subgroup analysis showed that fatty liver (FLI ≥ 60) with age ≥ 65 years or women displayed higher HR for HF than fatty liver with age < 65 or men, respectively. An increase in FLI score significantly increased the HR for HF except for those with a FLI score change from <30 to 30–60. Conclusion: NAFLD defined by FLI and increase in FLI score were associated with the incidence of HF. Further detailed prospective studies are needed.
Water Sorption, Solubility, and Translucency of 3D-Printed Denture Base Resins
Authors: Gad Mohammed M. , Alshehri Saleh Z. , Alhamid Shahad A. , Albarrak Alanoud , Khan Soban Q. , Alshahrani Faris A. , Alqarawi Firas K.
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the water sorption, solubility, and translucency of 3D-printed denture base resins (NextDent, FormLabs, and Asiga), compare them to heat-polymerized acrylic denture base resins, and assess their performance under the effects of thermal cycling. A total of 80 acrylic disc specimens were used in the current study, categorized into four groups (n = 10); in one group, the samples were fabricated conventionally with a heat-polymerizing process (control), while the other three groups were fabricated digitally from different 3D-printed reins (NextDent, FormLabs, and Asiga). Specimens were fabricated according to the manufacturers’ recommendations and immersed in distilled water for 48 h at 37 °C. Data on water sorption, solubility, and translucency measurements (T1) were obtained. All the specimens were subjected to 5000 thermal cycles, and then the measures were repeated using the same method (T2). Data analysis was attained via ANOVA and the post hoc Tukey test (α = 0.05). The type of resin significantly affected the values of water sorption, solubility, and translucency (p < 0.001). The water sorption of 3D-printed resins was increased significantly in comparison to control with or without a thermal cycling effect. In terms of solubility, a significant increase in 3D-printed resins before thermocycling was observed; however, after thermocycling, Asiga had a significantly low value compared to the other groups (p < 0.001). Thermal cycling increased the water sorption and solubility of all tested materials. In comparison to control, the translucency of the 3D-printed resins was significantly decreased (p < 0.001). The translucency was significantly decreased per material in terms of the thermal cycling effect (before and after). NextDent showed significantly low translucency values (p < 0.001) compared to the other groups. All 3D-printed resin groups had higher water sorption and solubility and lower translucency values in comparison to the heat-polymerized resin group. Regardless of resin types, thermal cycling adversely affected all tested properties.
Counteracting a Saturation Attack in Continuous-Variable Quantum Key Distribution Using an Adjustable Optical Filter Embedded in Homodyne Detector
Authors: Xu Shengjie , Li Yin , Mao Yun , Guo Ying
Published: March 2022

A saturation attack can be employed for compromising the practical security of continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD). In this paper, we suggest a countermeasure approach to resisting this attack by embedding an adjustable optical filter (AOF) in the CVQKD system. Numerical simulations illustrate the effects of the AOF-enabled countermeasure on the performance in terms of the secret key rate and transmission distance. The legal participants can trace back the information that has been eavesdropped by an attacker from the imperfect receiver, which indicates that this approach can be used for defeating a saturation attack in practical quantum communications.
A Novel and Fast Encryption System Based on Improved Josephus Scrambling and Chaotic Mapping
Authors: Guan  Zhaoxiong , Li Junxian , Huang Linqing , Xiong Xiaoming , Liu Yuan , Cai Shuting
Published: March 2022

To address the shortcomings of weak confusion and high time complexity of the existing permutation algorithms, including the traditional Josephus ring permutation (TJRP), an improved Josephus ring-based permutation (IJRBP) algorithm is developed. The proposed IJRBP replaces the remove operation used in TJRP with the position exchange operation and employs random permutation steps instead of fixed steps, which can offer a better scrambling effect and a higher permutation efficiency, compared with various scrambling methods. Then, a new encryption algorithm based on the IJRBP and chaotic system is developed. In our scheme, the plaintext feature parameter, which is related to the plaintext and a random sequence generated by a chaotic system, is used as the shift step of the circular shift operation to generate the diffusion matrix, which means that a minor change in the source image will generate a totally different encrypted image. Such a strategy strikes a balance between plaintext sensitivity and ciphertext sensitivity to obtain the ability to resist chosen-plaintext attacks (CPAs) and the high robustness of resisting noise attacks and data loss. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed image cryptosystem has the advantages of great encryption efficiency and the ability to resist various common attacks.
On the Relation between Prediction and Imputation Accuracy under Missing Covariates
Authors: Ramosaj Burim , Tulowietzki Justus , Pauly Markus
Published: March 2022

Missing covariates in regression or classification problems can prohibit the direct use of advanced tools for further analysis. Recent research has realized an increasing trend towards the use of modern Machine-Learning algorithms for imputation. This originates from their capability of showing favorable prediction accuracy in different learning problems. In this work, we analyze through simulation the interaction between imputation accuracy and prediction accuracy in regression learning problems with missing covariates when Machine-Learning-based methods for both imputation and prediction are used. We see that even a slight decrease in imputation accuracy can seriously affect the prediction accuracy. In addition, we explore imputation performance when using statistical inference procedures in prediction settings, such as the coverage rates of (valid) prediction intervals. Our analysis is based on empirical datasets provided by the UCI Machine Learning repository and an extensive simulation study.
Cryptocurrencies and Tokens Lifetime Analysis from 2009 to 2021
Authors: Gatabazi Paul , Kabera Gaëtan , Mba Jules Clement , Pindza Edson , Melesse Sileshi Fanta
Published: March 2022

The success of Bitcoin has spurred emergence of countless alternative coins with some of them shutting down only few weeks after their inception, thus disappearing with millions of dollars collected from enthusiast investors through initial coin offering (ICO) process. This has led investors from the general population to the institutional ones, to become skeptical in venturing in the cryptocurrency market, adding to its highly volatile characteristic. It is then of vital interest to investigate the life span of available coins and tokens, and to evaluate their level of survivability. This will make investors more knowledgeable and hence build their confidence in hazarding in the cryptocurrency market. Survival analysis approach is well suited to provide the needed information. In this study, we discuss the survival outcomes of coins and tokens from the first release of a cryptocurrency in 2009. Non-parametric methods of time-to-event analysis namely Aalen Additive Hazards Model (AAHM) trough counting and martingale processes, Cox Proportional Hazard Model (CPHM) are based on six covariates of interest. Proportional hazards assumption (PHA) is checked by assessing the Kaplan-Meier estimates of survival functions at the levels of each covariate. The results in different regression models display significant and non-significant covariates, relative risks and standard errors. Among the results, it was found that cryptocurrencies under standalone blockchain were at a relatively higher risk of collapsing. It was also found that the 2013–2017 cryptocurrencies release was at a high risk as compared to 2009–2013 release and that cryptocurrencies for which headquarters are known had the relatively better survival outcomes. This provides clear indicators to watch out for while selecting the coins or tokens in which to invest.
Traffic Landmark Matching Framework for HD-Map Update: Dataset Training Case Study
Authors: Park Young-Kook , Park Hyunhee , Woo Young-Su , Choi In-Gu , Han Seung-Soo
Published: March 2022

High-definition (HD) maps determine the location of the vehicle under limited visibility based on the location information of safety signs detected by sensors. If a safety sign disappears or changes, incorrect information may be obtained. Thus, map data must be updated daily to prevent accidents. This study proposes a map update system (MUS) framework that maps objects detected by a road map detection system and the object present in the HD map. Based on traffic safety signs notified by the Korean National Police Agency, 151 types of objects, including traffic signs, traffic lights, and road markings, were annotated manually and semi-automatically. Approximately 3,000,000 annotations were trained based on the you only look once (YOLO) model, suitable for real-time detection by grouping safety signs with similar properties. The object coordinates were then extracted from the mobile mapping system point cloud, and the detection location accuracy was verified by comparing and evaluating the center point of the object detected in the MUS. The performance of the groups with and without specified properties was compared and their effectiveness was verified based on the dataset configuration. A model trained with a Korean road traffic dataset on our testbed achieved a group model of 95% mAP and no group model of 70.9% mAP.
A Survey of Magnetic-Field-Based Indoor Localization
Authors: Ouyang Guanglie , Abed-Meraim Karim
Published: March 2022

Magnetic fields have attracted considerable attention in indoor localization due to their ubiquitous and infrastructure-free characteristics. This survey provides a comprehensive review of magnetic-field-based indoor localization methods. We first introduce characteristics of the magnetic field, its advantages, and its challenges. We then describe the magnetometer model and the effect of ferromagnetic interference. We also present coordinate systems commonly used for magnetic field localization and describe their transformation relationships. We then compare the existing publicly available magnetic field benchmark datasets, present magnetometer calibration algorithms, and show how efficiently magnetic field maps can be built. We also summarize state-of-the-art magnetic field localization methods (e.g., magnetic landmarks, dynamic time warping, magnetic fingerprinting, filters, simultaneous localization and mapping, and neural network). The smartphone-based pedestrian dead reckoning approach is also reviewed.