bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Patient-Reported Incontinence at Adjuvant/Salvage Radiotherapy after Prostatectomy: Impact of Time between Surgery and Radiotherapy
Authors: Munoz Fernando , Sanguineti Giuseppe , Bresolin Andrea , Cante Domenico , Vavassori Vittorio , Waskiewicz Justina Magdalena , Girelli Giuseppe , Avuzzi Barbara , Garibaldi Elisabetta , Faiella Adriana , Villa Elisa , Magli Alessandro , Noris Chiorda Barbara , Gatti Marco , Rancati Tiziana , Valdagni Riccardo , Di Muzio Nadia G. , Fiorino Claudio , Cozzarini Cesare
Published: June 2021

Background: Baseline urinary incontinence (UI) strongly modulates UI recovery after adjuvant/salvage radiotherapy (ART/SRT), inducing clinicians to postpone it “as much as possible”, maximizing UI recovery but possibly reducing efficacy. This series aims to analyze the trend of UI recovery and its predictors at radiotherapy start. Methods: A population of 408 patients treated with ART/SRT enrolled in a cohort study (ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT02803086) aimed at developing predictive models of radiation-induced toxicities. Self-reported UI and personality traits, evaluated by means of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-SF) and Eysenck Personality Questionnaire - Revised (EPQ-R) questionnaires, were assessed at ART/SRT start. Several endpoints based on baseline ICIQ-SF were investigated: frequency and amount of urine loss (ICIQ3 and ICIQ4, respectively), “objective” UI (ICIQ3 + 4), “subjective” UI (ICIQ5), and “TOTAL” UI (ICIQ3 +4 + 5). The relationship between each endpoint and time from prostatectomy to radiotherapy (TTRT) was investigated. The association between clinical and personality variables and each endpoint was tested by uni- and multivariable logistic regression. Results: TTRT was the strongest predictor for all endpoints (p-values ≤ 0.001); all scores improved between 4 and 8 months after prostatectomy, without any additional long-term recovery. Neuroticism independently predicted subjective UI, TOTAL UI, and daily frequency. Conclusions: Early UI recovery mostly depends on TTRT with no further improvement after 8 months from prostatectomy. Higher levels of neuroticism may overestimate UI.
Germline ERBB2/HER2 Coding Variants Are Associated with Increased Risk of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Braunstein Evan M. , Chen Hang , Juarez Felicia , Yang Fanghan , Tao Lindsay , Makhlin Igor , Williams Donna M. , Chaturvedi Shruti , Pallavajjala Aparna , Karantanos Theodoros , Martin Renan , Wohler Elizabeth , Sobreira Nara , Gocke Christopher D. , Moliterno Alison R.
Published: June 2021

Familial cases of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are relatively common, yet few inherited risk factors have been identified. Exome sequencing of a kindred with a familial cancer syndrome characterized by both MPN and melanoma produced a germline variant in the ERBB2/HER2 gene that co-segregates with disease. To further investigate whether germline ERBB2 variants contribute to MPN predisposition, the frequency of ERBB2 variants was analyzed in 1604 cases that underwent evaluation for hematologic malignancy, including 236 cases of MPN. MPN cases had a higher frequency of rare germline ERBB2 coding variants compared to non-MPN hematologic malignancies (8.9% vs. 4.1%, OR 2.4, 95% CI: 1.4 to 4.0, p = 0.0028) as well as cases without a blood cancer diagnosis that served as an internal control (8.9% vs. 2.7%, OR 3.5, 95% CI: 1.4 to 8.3, p = 0.0053). This finding was validated via comparison to an independent control cohort of 1587 cases without selection for hematologic malignancy (8.9% in MPN cases vs. 5.2% in controls, p = 0.040). The most frequent variant identified, ERBB2 c.1960A > G; p.I654V, was present in MPN cases at more than twice its expected frequency. These data indicate that rare germline coding variants in ERBB2 are associated with an increased risk for development of MPN. The ERBB2 gene is a novel susceptibility locus which likely contributes to cancer risk in combination with additional risk alleles.
Comparison of Selected Immune and Hematological Parameters and Their Impact on Survival in Patients with HPV-Related and HPV-Unrelated Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Brewczyński Adam , Jabłońska Beata , Mazurek Agnieszka Maria , Mrochem-Kwarciak Jolanta , Mrowiec Sławomir , Śnietura Mirosław , Kentnowski Marek , Kołosza Zofia , Składowski Krzysztof , Rutkowski Tomasz
Published: June 2021

Several immune and hematological parameters are associated with survival in patients with oropharyngeal cancer (OPC). The aim of the study was to analyze selected immune and hematological parameters of patients with HPV-related (HPV+) and HPV-unrelated (HPV−) OPC, before and after radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy (RT/CRT) and to assess the impact of these parameters on survival. One hundred twenty seven patients with HPV+ and HPV− OPC, treated with RT alone or concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT), were included. Patients were divided according to HPV status. Confirmation of HPV etiology was obtained from FFPE (Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded) tissue samples and/or extracellular circulating HPV DNA was determined. The pre-treatment and post-treatment laboratory blood parameters were compared in both groups. The neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and systemic immune inflammation (SII) index were calculated. The impact of these parameters on overall (OS) and disease-free (DFS) survival was analyzed. In HPV+ patients, a high pre-treatment white blood cells (WBC) count (>8.33 /mm3), NLR (>2.13), SII (>448.60) significantly correlated with reduced OS, whereas high NLR (>2.29), SII (>462.58) significantly correlated with reduced DFS. A higher pre-treatment NLR and SII were significant poor prognostic factors for both OS and DFS in the HPV+ group. These associations were not apparent in HPV− patients. There are different pre-treatment and post-treatment immune and hematological prognostic factors for OS and DFS in HPV+ and HPV− patients. The immune ratios could be considered valuable biomarkers for risk stratification and differentiation for HPV− and HPV+ OPC patients.
AML-Related NPM Mutations Drive p53 Delocalization into the Cytoplasm with Possible Impact on p53-Dependent Stress Response
Authors: Holoubek Aleš , Strachotová Dita , Otevřelová Petra , Röselová Pavla , Heřman Petr , Brodská Barbora
Published: June 2021

Nucleophosmin (NPM) interaction with tumor suppressor p53 is a part of a complex interaction network and considerably affects cellular stress response. The impact of NPM1 mutations on its interaction with p53 has not been investigated yet, although consequences of NPMmut-induced p53 export to the cytoplasm are important for understanding the oncogenic potential of these mutations. We investigated p53-NPM interaction in live HEK-293T cells by FLIM-FRET and in cell lysates by immunoprecipitation. eGFP lifetime-photoconversion was used to follow redistribution dynamics of NPMmut and p53 in Selinexor-treated cells. We confirmed the p53-NPMwt interaction in intact cells and newly documented that this interaction is not compromised by the NPM mutation causing displacement of p53 to the cytoplasm. Moreover, the interaction was not abolished for non-oligomerizing NPM variants with truncated oligomerization domain, suggesting that oligomerization is not essential for interaction of NPM forms with p53. Inhibition of the nuclear exporter XPO1 by Selinexor caused expected nuclear relocalization of both NPMmut and p53. However, significantly different return rates of these proteins indicate nontrivial mechanism of p53 and NPMmut cellular trafficking. The altered p53 regulation in cells expressing NPMmut offers improved understanding to help investigational strategies targeting these mutations.
Insight into Platinum Poisoning Effect on Cu-SSZ-13 in Selective Catalytic Reduction of NOx with NH3
Authors: Zhao Huawang , Han Lei , Wang Yujie , Zheng Jiandong
Published: June 2021

Platinum’s (Pt) poisoning effect on Cu-SSZ-13 and its regeneration were investigated. The Pt enhanced the parallel reactions, such as NH3 oxidation and NO oxidation reactions, which decreased the deNOx activities. In the temperature range below 330 °C, the deactivation of Cu-SSZ-13 by Pt poisoning was primarily caused by the overconsumption of NH3, due to the enhanced NH3-selective oxidation reaction, while the formation of NOx in NH3 oxidation and NO oxidation into NO2 further aggravated the degradation when the temperature was above 460 °C. The non-selective NH3 oxidation and non-selective NOx catalytic reduction reactions resulted in increased N2O formation over Pt-doped samples. The transformation of Pt0 into PtOx after hydrothermal aging recovered the deNOx activities of the Pt-poisoned samples.
Some New Hermite–Hadamard and Related Inequalities for Convex Functions via (p,q)-Integral
Authors: Vivas-Cortez Miguel , Ali Muhammad Aamir , Budak Hüseyin , Kalsoom Humaira , Agarwal Praveen
Published: June 2021

In this investigation, for convex functions, some new (p,q)–Hermite–Hadamard-type inequalities using the notions of (p,q)π2 derivative and (p,q)π2 integral are obtained. Furthermore, for (p,q)π2-differentiable convex functions, some new (p,q) estimates for midpoint and trapezoidal-type inequalities using the notions of (p,q)π2 integral are offered. It is also shown that the newly proved results for p=1 and q→1− can be converted into some existing results. Finally, we discuss how the special means can be used to address newly discovered inequalities.
Driving Risk Assessment Using Near-Miss Events Based on Panel Poisson Regression and Panel Negative Binomial Regression
Authors: Sun Shuai , Bi Jun , Guillen Montserrat , Pérez-Marín Ana
Published: June 2021

This study proposes a method for identifying and evaluating driving risk as a first step towards calculating premiums in the newly emerging context of usage-based insurance. Telematics data gathered by the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) contain a large number of near-miss events which can be regarded as an alternative for modeling claims or accidents for estimating a driving risk score for a particular vehicle and its driver. Poisson regression and negative binomial regression are applied to a summary data set of 182 vehicles with one record per vehicle and to a panel data set of daily vehicle data containing four near-miss events, i.e., counts of excess speed, high speed brake, harsh acceleration or deceleration and additional driving behavior parameters that do not result in accidents. Negative binomial regression (AICoverspeed = 997.0, BICoverspeed = 1022.7) is seen to perform better than Poisson regression (AICoverspeed = 7051.8, BICoverspeed = 7074.3). Vehicles are separately classified to five driving risk levels with a driving risk score computed from individual effects of the corresponding panel model. This study provides a research basis for actuarial insurance premium calculations, even if no accident information is available, and enables a precise supervision of dangerous driving behaviors based on driving risk scores.
Behavioral Analysis of Potential Induced Degradation on Photovoltaic Cells, Regeneration and Artificial Creation
Authors: Mirtchev Alex , Mouselinos Theodoros , Syrigos Stylianos , Tatakis Emmanuel
Published: June 2021

Many photovoltaic (PV) parks suffer from a decrement in their generated power capability due to a phenomenon called potential induced degradation (PID). In this paper, a regenerative system using a high step-up DC–DC converter is proposed, for regenerating PV cells that have been degraded due to the PID effect. The same device also can be used for artificially creating PID on PV panels in order to study the effects of the PID under controlled conditions. The power converter offers multiple voltage levels at the output to adapt to various voltage ratings of PV parks. The device has plug-and-play features, ultra-low cost, small size and is simple in operation. Experimental tests are conducted in real PV panels and comparative results verify the operational principles of the proposed system. The artificial creation of the PID phenomenon and the regeneration of the PV cells are successfully proven experimentally.
A Pragmatic Investigation of Energy Consumption and Utilization Models in the Urban Sector Using Predictive Intelligence Approaches
Authors: Mohapatra Sunil Kumar , Mishra Sushruta , Tripathy Hrudaya Kumar , Bhoi Akash Kumar , Barsocchi Paolo
Published: June 2021

Energy consumption is a crucial domain in energy system management. Recently, it was observed that there has been a rapid rise in the consumption of energy throughout the world. Thus, almost every nation devises its strategies and models to limit energy usage in various areas, ranging from large buildings to industrial firms and vehicles. With technological advancements, computational intelligence models have been successfully contributing to the prediction of the consumption of energy. Machine learning and deep learning-based models enhance the precision and robustness compared to traditional approaches, making it more reliable. This article performs a review analysis of the various computational intelligence approaches currently being utilized to predict energy consumption. An extensive survey procedure is conducted and presented in this study, and relevant works are discussed. Different criteria are considered during the aggregation of the relevant studies relating to the work. The author’s perspective, future trends and various novel approaches are also presented as a part of the discussion. This article thereby lays a foundation stone for further research works to be undertaken for energy prediction.
Associating Synoptic-Scale Weather Patterns with Aggregated Offshore Wind Power Production and Ramps
Authors: Cheneka Bedassa R. , Watson Simon J. , Basu Sukanta
Published: June 2021

Large-scale weather patterns and their variability can influence both the amount of wind power production and its temporal variation, i.e., wind power ramps. In this study, we use a self-organizing map to cluster hourly sea level pressure into a discrete number of weather patterns. The dependency of wind power production and wind power ramps on these weather patterns is studied for the Belgian offshore wind farm fleet. A newly developed wavelet-surrogate ramp-detection algorithm is used for the identification of wind power ramps. It was observed that low-pressure systems, southwesterly and northeasterly wind flows are often associated with high levels of wind power production. Regarding wind power ramps, the type of transition between weather patterns was shown to determine whether ramp up or ramp down events would occur. Ramp up events tend to occur due to the transition from a high-pressure to a low-pressure system, or the weakening of the intensity of a deep low-pressure system. The reverse is associated with ramp down events.
MPC Based Coordinated Active and Reactive Power Control Strategy of DFIG Wind Farm with Distributed ESSs
Authors: Cui Hesong , Li Xueping , Wu Gongping , Song Yawei , Liu Xiao , Luo Derong
Published: June 2021

The ESS is considered as an effective tool for enhancing the flexibility and controllability of a wind farm, and the optimal control scheme of a wind farm with distributed ESSs is vital to the stable operation of wind power generation. In this paper, a coordinated active and reactive power control strategy based on model predictive control (MPC) is proposed for doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind farm (WF) with distributed energy storage systems (ESSs). The proposed control scheme coordinates the active and reactive power output among DFIG wind turbines (WTs), grid-side converters (GSCs), and distributed ESSs inside the WF, and the aim is to decrease fatigue loads of WTs, make the WT terminal voltage inside the extent practicable, and take the WF economic operation into consideration. Moreover, the best reactive power references of DFIG stator and GSC are produced independently based on their dynamics. At last, the control scheme generates optimal power references for all ESS to make the SOC of each ESS converge to their average state. With the distributed ESSs, the WF controller regulates the WTs inside WF more flexibly. A WF composed of 10 DFIG WTs was utilized to verify the control performance of the proposed coordinated active and reactive power control strategy.
Promoted Disappearance of CO2 Hydrate Self-Preservation Effect by Surfactant SDS
Authors: Chen Xueping , Li Shuaijun , Zhang Peng , Chen Wenting , Wu Qingbai , Zhan Jing , Wang Yingmei
Published: June 2021

The capture, storage and utilization of CO2 through hydrate-related technology is a promising approach to addressing the global warming issue. Dissociation is required after the transportation of CO2 gas in the form of a self-preserving hydrate. In order to investigate the dissociation behaviors as the self-preservation effect is removed, CO2 hydrates were frozen, and then the self-preservation effect was removed through uniform heating. An evident dependence of hydrate dissociation duration on the initial dissociation rates after losing the preservation effect was observed. The results in the silica gel powder and sodium dodecyl sulphate solution showed significant reductions in the initial dissociation temperatures and a slight decrease in the initial dissociation rates when compared with those of pure water. The reductions in the former were 2.88, 2.89, and 5.73 °C in silica gel, sodium dodecyl sulphate, and a combination of the two, respectively, while the reductions in the latter were 0.12, 0.12, and 0.16 mmol/min, respectively. As the results are inconsistent with the conventional mechanism elucidating a self-preservation effect, the ice shell theory was hence further supplemented by introducing innovative contribution factors—nonenclathrated liquid water and gas molecules dissolved inside. These findings are expected to provide references for CO2 gas transportation and usage of the self-preservation effect.
The Concept of Optimal Compaction of the Charge in the Gravitation System Using the Grains Triangle for Cokemaking Process
Authors: Mianowski Andrzej , Mertas Bartosz , Ściążko Marek
Published: June 2021

Two isomorphic sets of grains, small and large, were analysed—without specifying their dimensions—under the acronym CMC (Curve of Maximum Compression) and taking into account the effects of segregation CMCS. The proposal is particularly valuable for optimal blend preparation in the gravity system in cokemaking. The main advantage of this work is the proposal of using the grains triangle, which limits the values calculated by the relations: bulk density-share of coarse/fine grains, for different levels of moisture content. Each system of changing shares of coarse grains is characterised by a constant C, but there is no need to determine it. Compliance of the calculated value with the experimentally determined value means that the given arbitrary grain set has reached its maximum density called the “locus”. The grains triangle practically covers the vast majority of laboratory and industrial test results, and geometrically or computationally indicates the ability of a given particle size distribution to reach maximum bulk density. This paper presents analysis of the results of tests on crushing, coal briquettes, and grinding coal blend in selected mechanical systems. Results of tests on coke quality (CRI, CSR) in connection with the grain size triangle are discussed.
On the Optimization of Electrical Water Heaters: Modelling Simulations and Experimentation
Authors: Salameh Wassim , Faraj Jalal , Harika Elias , Murr Rabih , Khaled Mahmoud
Published: June 2021

In the context of a world energy crisis, the only solution to control the situation is in the management of energy. One of the most important management keys is the optimization of electrical components. This article presents a complete numerical and experimental study aiming for the optimization of electrical water heaters for household use. The optimization conceives the minimization of energy consumption simultaneously with the minimization of time to heat water. Firstly, a thermal model well adapted for the case of heaters is constructed and validated experimentally and then a parametric study is conducted covering all the input power, the volume and the external area of the heater. Results are promising, showing significant energy savings are possible with an optimum setting of these parameters, thus presenting a firm tool for the optimization of heaters.
Machine Learning Prediction of Biomarkers from SNPs and of Disease Risk from Biomarkers in the UK Biobank
Authors: Widen Erik , Raben Timothy G. , Lello Louis , Hsu Stephen D. H.
Published: June 2021

We use UK Biobank data to train predictors for 65 blood and urine markers such as HDL, LDL, lipoprotein A, glycated haemoglobin, etc. from SNP genotype. For example, our Polygenic Score (PGS) predictor correlates ∼0.76 with lipoprotein A level, which is highly heritable and an independent risk factor for heart disease. This may be the most accurate genomic prediction of a quantitative trait that has yet been produced (specifically, for European ancestry groups). We also train predictors of common disease risk using blood and urine biomarkers alone (no DNA information); we call these predictors biomarker risk scores, BMRS. Individuals who are at high risk (e.g., odds ratio of >5× population average) can be identified for conditions such as coronary artery disease (AUC∼0.75), diabetes (AUC∼0.95), hypertension, liver and kidney problems, and cancer using biomarkers alone. Our atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) predictor uses ∼10 biomarkers and performs in UKB evaluation as well as or better than the American College of Cardiology ASCVD Risk Estimator, which uses quite different inputs (age, diagnostic history, BMI, smoking status, statin usage, etc.). We compare polygenic risk scores (risk conditional on genotype: PRS) for common diseases to the risk predictors which result from the concatenation of learned functions BMRS and PGS, i.e., applying the BMRS predictors to the PGS output.
Effects of the Developmental Regulator BOLITA on the Plant Metabolome
Authors: Lazcano-Ramírez Hugo Gerardo , Gamboa-Becerra Roberto , García-López Irving J. , Montes Ricardo A. Chávez , Díaz-Ramírez David , Vega Octavio Martínez de la , Ordaz-Ortíz José Juan , de Folter Stefan , Tiessen-Favier Axel , Winkler Robert , Marsch-Martínez Nayelli
Published: June 2021

Transcription factors are important regulators of gene expression. They can orchestrate the activation or repression of hundreds or thousands of genes and control diverse processes in a coordinated way. This work explores the effect of a master regulator of plant development, BOLITA (BOL), in plant metabolism, with a special focus on specialized metabolism. For this, we used an Arabidopsis thaliana line in which the transcription factor activity can be induced. Fingerprinting metabolomic analyses of whole plantlets were performed at different times after induction. After 96 h, all induced replicas clustered as a single group, in contrast with all controls which did not cluster. Metabolomic analyses of shoot and root tissues enabled the putative identification of differentially accumulated metabolites in each tissue. Finally, the analysis of global gene expression in induced vs. non-induced root samples, together with enrichment analyses, allowed the identification of enriched metabolic pathways among the differentially expressed genes and accumulated metabolites after the induction. We concluded that the induction of BOL activity can modify the Arabidopsis metabolome. Future work should investigate whether its action is direct or indirect, and the implications of the metabolic changes for development regulation and bioprospection.
Role of Histone Methylation in Maintenance of Genome Integrity
Authors: Mushtaq Arjamand , Mir Ulfat Syed , Hunt Clayton R. , Pandita Shruti , Tantray Wajahat W. , Bhat Audesh , Pandita Raj K. , Altaf Mohammad , Pandita Tej K.
Published: June 2021

Packaging of the eukaryotic genome with histone and other proteins forms a chromatin structure that regulates the outcome of all DNA mediated processes. The cellular pathways that ensure genomic stability detect and repair DNA damage through mechanisms that are critically dependent upon chromatin structures established by histones and, particularly upon transient histone post-translational modifications. Though subjected to a range of modifications, histone methylation is especially crucial for DNA damage repair, as the methylated histones often form platforms for subsequent repair protein binding at damaged sites. In this review, we highlight and discuss how histone methylation impacts the maintenance of genome integrity through effects related to DNA repair and repair pathway choice.
Exercise Fat Oxidation Is Positively Associated with Body Fatness in Men with Obesity: Defying the Metabolic Flexibility Paradigm
Authors: Chávez-Guevara Isaac A. , Hernández-Torres Rosa P. , Trejo-Trejo Marina , González-Rodríguez Everardo , Moreno-Brito Verónica , Wall-Medrano Abraham , Pérez-León Jorge A. , Ramos-Jiménez Arnulfo
Published: June 2021

Obesity is thought to be associated with a reduced capacity to increase fat oxidation in response to physical exercise; however, scientific evidence supporting this paradigm remains scarce. This study aimed to determine the interrelationship of different submaximal exercise metabolic flexibility (Metflex) markers and define its association with body fatness on subjects with obesity. Twenty-one male subjects with obesity performed a graded-intensity exercise protocol (Test 1) during which cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), maximal fat oxidation (MFO) and its corresponding exercise intensity (FATmax) were recorded. A week afterward, each subject performed a 60-min walk (treadmill) at FATmax (Test 2), and the resulting fat oxidation area under the curve (TFO) and maximum respiratory exchange ratio (RERpeak) were recorded. Blood lactate (LAb) levels was measured during both exercise protocols. Linear regression analysis was used to study the interrelationship of exercise Metflex markers. Pearson’s correlation was used to evaluate all possible linear relationships between Metflex and anthropometric measurement, controlling for CRF). The MFO explained 38% and 46% of RERpeak and TFO’s associated variance (p < 0.01) while TFO and RERpeak were inversely related (R2 = 0.54, p < 0.01). Body fatness positively correlated with MFO (r = 0.64, p < 0.01) and TFO (r = 0.63, p < 0.01) but inversely related with RERpeak (r = −0.67, p < 0.01). This study shows that MFO and RERpeak are valid indicators of TFO during steady-state exercise at FATmax. The fat oxidation capacity is directly associated with body fatness in males with obesity.
Evaluation of a Multisite Safe Infant Sleep Education and Crib Distribution Program
Authors: Salm Ward Trina C. , Miller Terri J. , Naim Iman
Published: June 2021

Rates of sleep-related infant deaths have plateaued in the past few decades despite ongoing infant sleep practice recommendations to reduce risk of sleep-related infant deaths by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The state department of public health trained facilitators at 28 sites across the state to facilitate a group safe sleep educational program. A prospective, matched pre- and post-test cohort design with follow-up was used to evaluate changes in self-reported knowledge, intentions, and practices. The final sample included 615 matched pre- and post-test surveys, and 66 matched follow-up surveys. The proportion of correct responses on all knowledge and intended practice items increased significantly from pre- to post-test. When asked where their babies would have slept if they had not received the portable crib, 66.1% of participants planned to use a recommended sleep location (e.g., crib or bassinet). At post-test, 62.3% planned to change something about their infant’s sleep based on what they learned. At follow-up, knowledge was maintained for all but two items and practices and for half of practice items. The results suggest that participating in the education program was associated with increased knowledge and intended adherence, but that these changes were not maintained at follow-up. These results are in line with the research literature that finds a difference in intentions and actual practices after the baby is born.
Can Positive Mindsets Be Protective Against Stress and Isolation Experienced during the COVID-19 Pandemic? A Mixed Methods Approach to Understanding Emotional Health and Wellbeing Needs of Perinatal Women
Authors: Davis Jacqueline A. , Gibson Lisa Y. , Bear Natasha L. , Finlay-Jones Amy L. , Ohan Jeneva L. , Silva Desiree T. , Prescott Susan L.
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between emotional health and wellbeing and support needs of perinatal women during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to understand their experiences and need for support. This is a potentially vulnerable group and a critical developmental phase for women and infants. A mixed methods design was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data that provided a robust insight into their unique needs. A total of 174 women who were either pregnant or post-birth participated. The main findings demonstrated that women in this cohort experienced varying levels of stress and isolation but also positive experiences. Exploring the relationship between mental health (perceived stress and wellbeing) and resilience (mindfulness and self-compassion) revealed an association between positive mental health and higher levels of mindfulness and self-compassion. Positive mindsets may be protective against psychological distress for the mother and her child, suggesting that meditation-based or similar training might help support expectant and post-birth mothers during times of crisis, such as a pandemic. This information could be used to make recommendations for future planning for practitioners and policymakers in preparing for prospective infection waves, pandemics, or natural disasters, and could be used to develop targeted tools, support, and care.
Effects of Nocturnal Aircraft Noise and Non-Acoustical Factors on Short-Term Annoyance in Primary School Children
Authors: Quehl Julia , Bartels Susanne , Fimmers Rolf , Aeschbach Daniel
Published: June 2021

Children are considered at higher risk for harmful noise effects due to their sensitive development phase. Here, we investigated the effects of nocturnal aircraft noise exposure on short-term annoyance assessed in the morning in 51 primary school children (8–10 years) living in the surrounding community of Cologne-Bonn Airport. Child-appropriate short-term annoyance assessments and associated non-acoustical variables were surveyed. Nocturnal aircraft noise exposure was recorded inside the children’s bedrooms. Exposure–response models were calculated by using random effects logistic regression models. The present data were compared with those from a previous study near Cologne-Bonn Airport in adults using very similar methodology. Short-term annoyance reaction in children was not affected by the nocturnal aircraft noise exposure. Non-acoustical factors (e.g., the attitude that “aircraft are dangerous” or noise sensitivity), however, significantly impacted on children’s short-term annoyance. In contrast to children, the probability of moderate to high annoyance in adults increased with the number of aircraft flyovers during the time in bed. It is concluded that short-term annoyance from nocturnal aircraft noise in children is mainly determined by non-acoustical factors. Unlike in adults, acoustical factors did not play a significant role.
Identifying the Impact of Intimate Partner Violence in Humanitarian Settings: Using an Ecological Framework to Review 15 Years of Evidence
Authors: Meinhart Melissa , Seff Ilana , Troy Katrina , McNelly Samantha , Vahedi Luissa , Poulton Catherine , Stark Lindsay
Published: June 2021

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive form of gender-based violence that exacerbates in humanitarian settings. This systematic review examined the myriad IPV impacts and the quality of existing evidence of IPV in humanitarian settings. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) procedures, a total of 51 articles were included from the 3924 screened. We identified the impact of IPV across two levels of the ecological framework: individual and microsystem. Our findings corroborated previous evidence that indicated IPV to be associated with adverse physical and mental health for survivors. Our findings also uniquely synthesized the intergenerational impact of IPV in humanitarian settings. However, findings highlighted a glaring gap in evidence examining the non-health impact of IPV for survivors in humanitarian settings and across levels of the ecological framework. Without enhanced research of women and girls and the violence they experience, humanitarian responses will continue to underachieve, and the needs of women and girls will continue to be relegated as secondary interests. Investment should prioritize addressing the range of both health and non-health impacts of IPV among individuals, families, and communities, as well as consider how the humanitarian environment influences these linkages.
Making Biodegradable Seedling Pots from Textile and Paper Waste—Part A: Factors Affecting Tensile Strength
Authors: Juanga-Labayen Jeanger P. , Yuan Qiuyan
Published: June 2021

This study investigates the efficacy of using discarded textile (cotton and polycotton) and paper waste (newspaper and corrugated cardboard) as substrates to form sheets with optimum tensile strength. The effect of alkali treatment (sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3)), compressive loads (200 N and 500 N), and the use of binding agents (blackstrap molasses, sodium alginate, and cornstarch) were studied to optimize the tensile strength of homogeneous sheets. The alkali treatment using 5% NaOH for 5 h of soaking demonstrated the highest increase in tensile strength of 21% and 19% for cotton and newspaper, respectively. Increasing compressive load from 200 N to 500 N showed the highest increase in tensile strength of 37% and 42% for cotton and newspaper, respectively. Remarkably, among the binders, cornstarch at 20% concentration obtained an increase in tensile strength of 395%, 320%, 310%, and 185% for cotton, polycotton, corrugated cardboard, and newspaper sheets, respectively. The optimum results obtained from this study will be utilized to develop biodegradable seedling pots using discarded textile and paper waste.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Decreases the Decline of Speed during Repeated Sprinting in Basketball Athletes
Authors: Chen Che-Hsiu , Chen Yu-Chun , Jiang Ren-Shiang , Lo Lok-Yin , Wang I-Lin , Chiu Chih-Hui
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can improve countermovement jump performance, fatigue index and alleviate the speed decline during repeated shuttle sprints in trained basketball players. Thirteen trained basketball players were divided into the tDCS trial and sham trial by the random crossover design. The tDCS trial was stimulated with 2-mA current in the M1 area in the middle of the top of the head for 20 min. For the sham trial, the current was turned off after 5 s, stopping the electrical stimulation. After warming up, the players underwent countermovement jump test, weighted countermovement jump test and then performed 40 × 15-m sprints with with a 1:4 exercise: rest ratio. The jump height, sprinting time, fatigue index, heart rate and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) were analyzed by paired-sample t-test, when significance was discovered by two-way repeated measures analysis of variance. The study results revealed that the tDCS trial significantly increase the countermovement jump performance (p = 0.04), decrease the sprinting time (p = 0.016), and had improved fatigue index during the sprinting process (p = 0.009). However, the heart rate and RPE during sprinting were nonsignificantly different between the trials. This study has identified that tDCS can decrease the speed decline, fatigue index during sprinting and increase countermovement jump performance without affecting heart rate or the rating of perceived exertion.
Effect of Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) and Duration of Disease on Lung Functions in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Maan Hawra Bin , Meo Sultan Ayoub , Al Rouq Fawziah , Meo Imran Muhammad Umar , Gacuan Milagros E. , Alkhalifah Joud Mohammed
Published: June 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a highly challenging global health care problem. This study aimed to assess the effect of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and duration of diabetes on lung function in type 2 diabetic patients and assess whether duration or high HbA1c is more noxious to damage the lung functions. A total of 202 participants, 101 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and 101 age-, gender-, height-, and weight-matched controlled subjects were recruited. The HbA1c was measured through a clover analyzer, and lung function test parameters were recorded by spirometry. The results revealed a significant inverse correlation between HbA1c and Vital Capacity (VC) (r = −0.221, p = 0.026), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) (r = −0.261, p = 0.008), Forced Expiratory Volume in First Second (FEV1) (r = −0.272, p = 0.006), Forced Expiratory Flow 25% (FEF-25%) (r = −0.196, p = 0.050), Forced Expiratory Flow 50% (FEF-50%) (r = −0.223, p = 0.025), and Forced Expiratory Flow 75% (FEF-75%) (r = −0.169, p = 0.016). Moreover, FEV1 (p = 0.029), FEV1/FVC% (p = 0.006), FEF-50% (p = 0.001), and FEF-75% (p = 0.003) were significantly lower in the diabetic group with duration of disease 5–10 and >10 years compared to the control group. The overall results concluded that high HbA1c or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus has a more damaging effect on lung function impairment compared to the duration of diabetes mellitus. Physicians must regularly monitor the HbA1c level while treating diabetic patients, as good glycemic control is essential to minimize the complications of DM, including lung function impairment in patients with T2DM.
New Tools to Support the Risk Assessment Process of Nanomaterials in the Insurance Sector
Authors: Aznar Mollá Francisco , Fito-López Carlos , Heredia Alvaro Jose Antonio , Huertas-López Francisco
Published: June 2021

During the last decade, the use of nanomaterials, due to their multiple utilities, has exponentially increased. Nanomaterials have unique properties such as a larger specific surface area and surface activity, which may result in health and environmental hazards different from those demonstrated by the same materials in bulk form. Besides, due to their small size, they can easily penetrate through the environmental and biological barriers. In terms of exposure potential, the vast majority of studies are focused on workplace areas, where inhalation is the most common route of exposure. The main route of entry into the environment is due to indirect emissions of nanomaterials from industrial settings, as well as uncontrollable releases into the environment during the use, recycling and disposal of nano-enabled products. Accidental spills during production or later transport of nanomaterials and release from wear and tear of materials containing nanomaterials may lead to potential exposure. In this sense, a proper understanding of all significant risks due to the exposure to nanomaterials that might result in a liability claim has been proved to be necessary. In this paper, the utility of an application for smartphones developed for the insurance sector has been validated as a solution for the analysis and evaluation of the emerging risk of the application of nanotechnology in the market. Different exposure scenarios for nanomaterials have been simulated with this application. The results obtained have been compared with real scenarios, corroborating that the use of novel tools can be used by companies that offer risk management in the form of insurance contracts.
Effects of Baccharin Isolated from Brazilian Green Propolis on Adipocyte Differentiation and Hyperglycemia in ob/ob Diabetic Mice
Authors: Watanabe Akio , de Almeida Marília Oliveira , Deguchi Yusuke , Kozuka Ryuzo , Arruda Caroline , Berreta Andresa Aparecida , Bastos Jairo Kenupp , Woo Je-Tae , Yonezawa Takayuki
Published: June 2021

Propolis is a honeybee product with various biological activities, including antidiabetic effects. We previously reported that artepillin C, a prenylated cinnamic acid derivative isolated from Brazilian green propolis, acts as a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) ligand and promotes adipocyte differentiation. In this study, we examined the effect of baccharin, another major component of Brazilian green propolis, on adipocyte differentiation. The treatment of mouse 3T3-L1 preadipocytes with baccharin resulted in increased lipid accumulation, cellular triglyceride levels, glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity, and glucose uptake. The mRNA expression levels of PPARγ and its target genes were also increased by baccharin treatment. Furthermore, baccharin enhanced PPARγ-dependent luciferase activity, suggesting that baccharin promotes adipocyte differentiation via PPARγ activation. In diabetic ob/ob mice, intraperitoneal administration of 50 mg/kg baccharin significantly improved blood glucose levels. Our results suggest that baccharin has a hypoglycemic effect on glucose metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Antimicrobial Activity of 1,3,4-Oxadiazole Derivatives
Authors: Glomb Teresa , Świątek Piotr
Published: June 2021

The worldwide development of antimicrobial resistance forces scientists to search for new compounds to which microbes would be sensitive. Many new structures contain the 1,3,4-oxadiazole ring, which have shown various antimicrobial activity, e.g., antibacterial, antitubercular, antifungal, antiprotozoal and antiviral. In many publications, the activity of new compounds exceeds the activity of already known antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents, so their potential as new drugs is very promising. The review of active antimicrobial 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives is based on the literature from 2015 to 2021.
Transcriptome Analysis of Tolerant and Susceptible Maize Genotypes Reveals Novel Insights about the Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Drought Responses in Leaves
Authors: Waititu Joram Kiriga , Zhang Xingen , Chen Tianci , Zhang Chunyi , Zhao Yang , Wang Huan
Published: June 2021

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the most essential food crop in the world. However, maize is highly susceptible to drought stress, especially at the seedling stage, and the molecular mechanisms underlying drought tolerance remain elusive. In this study, we conducted comparative transcriptome and physiological analyses of drought-tolerant (CML69) and susceptible (LX9801) inbred lines subjected to drought treatment at the seedling stage for three and five days. The tolerant line had significantly higher relative water content in the leaves, as well as lower electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde levels, than the susceptible line. Using an RNA-seq-based approach, we identified 10,084 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with 6906 and 3178 DEGs been annotated and unannotated, respectively. Two critical sets of drought-responsive DEGs, including 4687 genotype-specific and 2219 common drought-responsive genes, were mined out of the annotated DEGs. The tolerant-line DEGs were predominantly associated with the cytoskeleton, cell wall modification, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, transport, osmotic regulation, drought avoidance, ROS scavengers, defense, and transcriptional factors. For the susceptible line, the DEGs were highly enriched in the photosynthesis, histone, and carbon fixation pathways. The unannotated DEGs were implicated in lncRNAs, including 428 previously reported and 22% putative TE-lncRNAs. There was consensus on both the physiological response and RNA-seq outcomes. Collectively, our findings will provide a comprehensive basis of the molecular networks mediating drought stress tolerance of maize at the seedling stage.
The Role of Cellular Stress in Intrauterine Growth Restriction and Postnatal Dysmetabolism
Authors: Oke Shelby L. , Hardy Daniel B.
Published: June 2021

Disruption of the in utero environment can have dire consequences on fetal growth and development. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a pathological condition by which the fetus deviates from its expected growth trajectory, resulting in low birth weight and impaired organ function. The developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) postulates that IUGR has lifelong consequences on offspring well-being, as human studies have established an inverse relationship between birth weight and long-term metabolic health. While these trends are apparent in epidemiological data, animal studies have been essential in defining the molecular mechanisms that contribute to this relationship. One such mechanism is cellular stress, a prominent underlying cause of the metabolic syndrome. As such, this review considers the role of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and inflammation in the pathogenesis of metabolic disease in IUGR offspring. In addition, we summarize how uncontrolled cellular stress can lead to programmed cell death within the metabolic organs of IUGR offspring.
Genomic Aromatic Compound Degradation Potential of Novel Paraburkholderia Species: Paraburkholderia domus sp. nov., Paraburkholderia haematera sp. nov. and Paraburkholderia nemoris sp. nov.
Authors: Vanwijnsberghe Sarah , Peeters Charlotte , De Ridder Emmelie , Dumolin Charles , Wieme Anneleen D. , Boon Nico , Vandamme Peter
Published: June 2021

We performed a taxonomic and comparative genomics analysis of 67 novel Paraburkholderia isolates from forest soil. Phylogenetic analysis of the recA gene revealed that these isolates formed a coherent lineage within the genus Paraburkholderia that also included Paraburkholderiaaspalathi, Paraburkholderiamadseniana, Paraburkholderiasediminicola, Paraburkholderiacaffeinilytica, Paraburkholderiasolitsugae and Paraburkholderiaelongata and four unidentified soil isolates from earlier studies. A phylogenomic analysis, along with orthoANIu and digital DNA–DNA hybridization calculations revealed that they represented four different species including three novel species and P. aspalathi. Functional genome annotation of the strains revealed several pathways for aromatic compound degradation and the presence of mono- and dioxygenases involved in the degradation of the lignin-derived compounds ferulic acid and p-coumaric acid. This co-occurrence of multiple Paraburkholderia strains and species with the capacity to degrade aromatic compounds in pristine forest soil is likely caused by the abundant presence of aromatic compounds in decomposing plant litter and may highlight a diversity in micro-habitats or be indicative of synergistic relationships. We propose to classify the isolates representing novel species as Paraburkholderia domus with LMG 31832T (=CECT 30334) as the type strain, Paraburkholderia nemoris with LMG 31836T (=CECT 30335) as the type strain and Paraburkholderia haematera with LMG 31837T (=CECT 30336) as the type strain and provide an emended description of Paraburkholderia sediminicola Lim et al. 2008.