bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in designing Adeno-associated viral vectors for development of anti-HBV gene therapeutics
Authors: Mnyandu Njabulo , Limani Shonisani Wendy , Arbuthnot Patrick , Maepa Mohube Betty
Published: December 2021

Despite the five decades having passed since discovery of the hepatitis B virus (HBV), together with development of an effective anti-HBV vaccine, infection with the virus remains a serious public health problem and results in nearly 900,000 annual deaths worldwide. Current therapies do not eliminate the virus and viral replication typically reactivates after treatment withdrawal. Hence, current endeavours are aimed at developing novel therapies to achieve a functional cure. Nucleic acid-based therapeutic approaches are promising, with several candidates showing excellent potencies in preclinical and early stages of clinical development. However, this class of therapeutics is yet to become part of standard anti-HBV treatment regimens. Obstacles delaying development of gene-based therapies include lack of clinically relevant delivery methods and a paucity of good animal models for preclinical characterisation. Recent studies have demonstrated safety and efficiency of Adeno-associated viral vectors (AAVs) in gene therapy. However, AAVs do have flaws and this has prompted research aimed at improving design of novel and artificially synthesised AAVs. Main goals are to improve liver transduction efficiencies and avoiding immune clearance. Application of AAVs to model HBV replication in vivo is also useful for characterising anti-HBV gene therapeutics. This review summarises recent advances in AAV engineering and their contributions to progress with anti-HBV gene therapy development.
Perceived difficulty of getting help to reduce or abstain from substances among sexual and gender minority men who have sex with men (SGMSM) and use methamphetamine during the early period of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Card Kiffer , McGuire Madison , Bond-Gorr Jordan , Nguyen Tribesty , Wells Gordon A. , Fulcher Karyn , Berlin Graham , Pal Nicole , Hull Mark , Lachowsky Nathan J.
Published: December 2021

Background

This study examined the perceived difficulty of getting help with substance use among sexual and gender minorities who have sex with men (SGMSM) who use methamphetamine during the early COVID-19 period.

Methods

SGMSM, aged 18+, who reported sex with a man and methamphetamine use in the past 6 months were recruited to complete an online survey using online advertisements. Ordinal regression models examined predictors of greater perceived difficulty of getting help. Explanatory variables included participant characteristics (i.e., age, HIV status, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, region, income) and variables assessing patterns of methamphetamine use (i.e., frequency, % time methamphetamine is used alone and during sex; perceived need for help) and patterns of healthcare access (i.e., regular provider, past substance use service utilization).

Results

Of 376 participants, most were gay-identified (76.6%), white (72.3%), cisgender (93.6%), and had annual incomes of less than $60,000 CAD (68.9%). Greater perceived difficulty of getting help was associated with having lower income, sometimes using methamphetamine prior to or during sex, and greater perceived need for help.

Conclusion

Based on these results, we urge greater investments in one-stop, low-barrier, culturally-appropriate care for SGMSM who use methamphetamine. This is especially important given that participants who perceive themselves as needing help to reduce or abstain from substance use perceive the greatest difficulty of getting such help.
Retrospective analysis of Clostridioides difficile and other intestinal infections in patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis in the tertiary hospital in Poland. POLIBD survey results
Authors: Gruszecka Jolanta , Filip Rafał
Published: December 2021

Background

There are several studies which evaluated the number of infections caused by enteric pathogens, including Clostridioides difficile in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our aim was to assess the prevalence of intestinal infections among patients suffering from IBD, when admitted to the hospital due to exacerbation of the disease.

Results

The performed, retrospective analysis covered test results for C. difficile toxins A and B along with rectal swab cultures sampled from patients, treated in a tertiary IBD center in Poland, between 2017 and 2019. Main objective was to estimate the presence of any infection, which could imitate or co-exist along with the exacerbation of the IBD. All in all 1471 patients had microbiological tests performed, including 1112 tested for C. difficile toxins A and B; and 359 patients who had rectal swab culture. Positive test results for C. difficile toxins A and B were reported in 358 cases, positive results from rectal swab culture were confirmed altogether in case of 25 samples. As far as patients with IBD are concerned, positive results for C. difficile toxins A and B were detected in 82 cases, positive results in rectal swab culture from patients with IBD were reported in 20 cases.

Conclusion

Intestinal infections were reported in 14.9% of patients (102/685) with IBD symptoms. Positive test results for C. difficile toxins A and B and rectal swab cultures among patients without IBD symptoms were reported in 35.7% of cases (281/786). Intestinal superinfections may complicate the clinical picture of IBD patients, increasing the diagnostic and therapeutic burden. Appropriate early procedures are thus needed in these patients.
CSACI position statement: transition recommendations on existing epinephrine autoinjectors
Authors: Li Lucy Dong Xuan , Abrams Elissa M. , Lavine Elana , Hildebrand Kyla , Mack Douglas Paul
Published: December 2021

Epinephrine is the first line treatment for anaphylaxis, an acute potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It is typically administered intramuscularly in the anterolateral thigh at a dose of 0.01 mg/kg of 1:1000 (1 mg/ml) solution to a maximum initial dose of 0.5 mg. Currently in Canada, epinephrine autoinjectors (EAI) are available in three doses, 0.15 mg, 0.30 mg, and 0.50 mg. There are currently no published studies comparing 0.3 mg and 0.5 mg EAIs in the paediatric or adult populations to compare clinical effectiveness. However, as weight increases above 30 kg, the percentage of the recommended 0.01 mg/kg epinephrine dose from an existing 0.3 mg EAI decreases resulting in potential underdosing. As such, The Canadian Society of Allergy and Immunology (CSACI) recommends that for those who weigh ≥ 45 kg, physicians could consider prescribing the 0.50 mg EAI based on shared decision making with patients.
Can fecal calprotectin levels be used to monitor infant milk protein allergies?
Authors: Qiu Liyan , Wang Junli , Ren Fang , Shen Lixiao , Li Feng
Published: December 2021

Background

Milk protein allergy is one of the most common food allergies in infants. We aimed to test whether fecal calprotectin can be used to monitor food allergies in infants by comparing the fecal calprotectin levels in infants with a milk protein allergy before and after an intervention treatment.

Methods

The study was designed as a prospective case–control trial. Stool samples were collected at follow-up, and the concentration of fecal calprotectin was determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The infant’s weight and length were measured.

Results

The allergic group comprised 90 milk-allergic infants (41 boys, 49 girls), and the nonallergic group comprised 90 nonallergic infants (51 boys, 39 girls). Compared with the fecal calprotectin level in the nonallergic group (median: 141 μg/g), that in the allergic group (median: 410 μg/g) was significantly higher (z = − 9.335, p < 0.001). After two dietary interventions and treatments, the fecal calprotectin levels of the infants with a milk protein allergy at the first (median: 253 μg/g) and second follow-up visits (median: 160 μg/g) were significantly lower than those before the intervention (z = − 7.884, p < 0.001 and z = − 8.239, p < 0.001, respectively). The growth index values (LAZ and WAZ) of the infants with a milk protein allergy at the first and second follow-up visits were significantly higher than those before dietary intervention (p < 0.05). Fecal calprotectin was negatively and significantly correlated with the WLZ and WAZ at the second follow-up visit (Spearman’s rho = − 0.234, p = 0.01 and Spearman’s rho = − 0.193, p = 0.03, respectively).

Conclusion

The level of fecal calprotectin in infants with a milk protein allergy decreased after dietary intervention and seems to be a promising biological indicator for monitoring intestinal allergies.
Prominent rash and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in a 29-year-old patient with COVID-19: a case report
Authors: Gao Catherine A. , Walter James M. , Dematte D’Amico Jane E.
Published: December 2021

Background

Adult patients with coronavirus disease present primarily with respiratory symptoms, but children and some adults may display a more systemic inflammatory syndrome with rash, fever, mucosal changes, and elevated inflammatory biomarkers.

Case presentation

Here, we report the case of a 29-year-old Hispanic patient presenting with significant rash and multisystem inflammation. We describe his clinical course, review dermatological manifestations of coronavirus disease, and summarize the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease-associated multisystem inflammation.

Conclusion

This case should alert physicians to the atypical nature of presenting rash with minimal respiratory symptoms in coronavirus disease.
Metarhizium robertsii protease and conidia production, response to heat stress and virulence against Aedes aegypti larvae
Authors: Ferreira Juliana M. , Pinto Salorrane M. N. , Soares Filippe E. F.
Published: December 2021

Nutritional factors exert significant influence on the growth of entomopathogenic fungi, one of the main agents employed commercially in the biological control of arthropods. Thus, the objective of this work is to optimize the culture medium and solid fermentation time for production of proteases and conidia of Metarhizium robertsii ARSEF 2575 and to evaluate the interference of riboflavin and salts on virulence and resistance to abiotic stress factors. In the first step, nine groups were separated: negative control, positive control, and seven supplementation groups: ammonium nitrate, ammonium chloride, potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, ammonium sulfate, ammonium phosphate, urea. Sodium nitrate showed significant difference in protease production at the time of 20 days of solid fermentation. Then, different concentrations of sodium nitrate and riboflavin as supplement were evaluated. Response surface methodology demonstrated that riboflavin and sodium nitrate influence proteolytic activity and conidia production, but without synergism. Supplementation of the medium with the optimal concentration of sodium nitrate and riboflavin did not interfere with the germination of conidia without exposure to abiotic stress, but did increase the thermotolerance of conidia. The presence of riboflavin and sodium nitrate at optimal concentrations in the culture medium did not alter fungal virulence with and without exposure to heat stress, varying according to the presence or absence of the supernatant during exposure, evidencing that resistance to heat exposure is multifactorial and dependent on intra- and extracellular factors. Moreover, the supplementation increased the larvicidal activity of the supernatant against Aedes aegypti.
Numerical analysis of doubly-history dependent variational inequalities in contact mechanics
Authors: Xu Wei , Wang Cheng , He Mingyan , Chen Wenbin , Han Weimin , Huang Ziping
Published: December 2021

This paper is devoted to numerical analysis of doubly-history dependent variational inequalities in contact mechanics. A fully discrete method is introduced for the variational inequalities, in which the doubly-history dependent operator is approximated by repeated left endpoint rule and the spatial variable is approximated by the linear element method. An optimal order error estimate is derived under appropriate solution regularities, and numerical examples illustrate the convergence orders of the method.
Advancement and practical applications of rhizobacterial biofertilizers for sustainable crop production in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Aloo B. N. , Mbega E. R. , Tumuhairwe J. B. , Makumba B. A.
Published: December 2021

Agricultural intensification continues in Africa in attempts to meet the rising food demands of the equally rising population. However, most arable lands in the region are characterized by nutrient deficiency and over-reliance on synthetic fertilizers which consequently contributes to increased production costs, environmental pollution, and global warming. Decades of research on plant–rhizobacterial interactions have led to the formulation and commercialization of rhizobacterial biofertilizers globally for sustainable soil and crop health. Nevertheless, this promising technology has not received much attention in Africa and remains largely unexplored due to several constraints. This article discusses the practical applications of rhizobacterial biofertilizers for sustainable crop production in sub-Saharan Africa. The challenges of soil infertility and the use of conventional synthetic fertilizers in crop production in Africa are critically evaluated. An overview of the potential of rhizobacteria as biofertilizers and alternatives to synthetic fertilizers for soil fertility and crop productivity in the continent is also provided. The advantages that these biofertilizers present over their synthetic counterparts and the status of their commercialization in the African region are also assessed. Finally, the constraints facing their formulation, commercialization, and utilization and the prospects of this promising technology in the region are deliberated upon. Such knowledge is valuable towards the full exploitation and adoption of this technology for sustainable agriculture for Africa’s food security.
Driving powers of the globalization on the urban ecology, a comparative study
Authors: Ebrahimi M. , Khalesi B. , Mansouri Daneshvar M. R.
Published: December 2021

Background

The present study investigates the driving effects of globalization on the urban environment in two countries of Italy and Japan, which have the regular amplified economy among the advanced countries. For this purpose, a model with the collaboration of two main subjects of globalization coverage and urbanization and the methodological procedures of correlation test and structural analysis was constructed. A globalization index, namely the Maastricht globalization index (MGI), was assumed based on the integrated values of ten factors [HDI, ITA, GDP, FDI, TEI, GEE, GME, MCS, and IUI] besides three ecological indicators as the baseline of the urban environment, namely carbon dioxide emission (CDE), municipal solid wastes (MSW), and wastewater treatment plants (WTP).

Results

Results revealed the positive associations between globalization and wastewater treatment of urban areas in both countries, exposing the influential role of globalization in connecting the urban population to the sewage plants. The results confirmed the positive role of globalization in decreasing carbon dioxide emissions and overall its practical influences to mitigate urban air pollution. However, the overall globalization effect on urban waste production was estimated differently in both countries.

Conclusions

Based on the MICMAC analysis, only three factors, namely HDI, ITA, GDP, and FDI, can express driving powers and a significant share of globalization coverage. Consequently, enhancing such indicators that belong to globalization’s social and economic domains certainly can act as driver powers to mitigate the environmental issues of urbanization in the study areas.
Transcriptome sequencing analysis for the identification of stable lncRNAs associated with bovine Staphylococcus aureus mastitis
Authors: Mi Siyuan , Tang Yongjie , Dari Gerile , Shi Yuanjun , Zhang Jinning , Zhang Hailiang , Liu Xueqin , Liu Yibing , Tahir Usman , Yu Ying
Published: December 2021

Background

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) mastitis is one of the most difficult diseases to treat in lactating dairy cows worldwide. S. aureus with different lineages leads to different host immune responses. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are reported to be widely involved in the progress of inflammation. However, no research has identified stable lncRNAs among different S. aureus strain infections. In addition, folic acid (FA) can effectively reduce inflammation, and whether the inflammatory response caused by S. aureus can be reduced by FA remains to be explored.

Methods

lncRNA transcripts were identified from Holstein mammary gland tissues infected with different concentrations of S. aureus (in vivo) and mammary alveolar cells (Mac-T cells, in vitro) challenged with different S. aureus strains. Differentially expressed (DE) lncRNAs were evaluated, and stable DE lncRNAs were identified in vivo and in vitro. On the basis of the gene sequence conservation and function conservation across species, key lncRNAs with the function of potentially immune regulation were retained for further analysis. The function of FA on inflammation induced by S. aureus challenge was also investigated. Then, the association analysis between these keys lncRNA transcripts and hematological parameters (HPs) was carried out. Lastly, the knockdown and overexpression of the important lncRNA were performed to validate the gene function on the regulation of cell immune response.

Results

Linear regression analysis showed a significant correlation between the expression levels of lncRNA shared by mammary tissue and Mac-T cells (P < 0.001, R2 = 0.3517). lncRNAs PRANCR and TNK2–AS1 could be regarded as stable markers associated with bovine S. aureus mastitis. Several HPs could be influenced by SNPs around lncRNAs PRANCR and TNK2–AS1. The results of gene function validation showed PRANCR regulates the mRNA expression of SELPLG and ITGB2 within the S. aureus infection pathway and the Mac-T cells apoptosis. In addition, FA regulated the expression change of DE lncRNA involved in toxin metabolism and inflammation to fight against S. aureus infection.

Conclusions

The remarkable association between SNPs around these two lncRNAs and partial HP indicates the potentially important role of PRANCR and TNK2–AS1 in immune regulation. Stable DE lncRNAs PRANCR and TNK2–AS1 can be regarded as potential targets for the prevention of bovine S. aureus mastitis. FA supplementation can reduce the negative effect of S. aureus challenge by regulating the expression of lncRNAs.
Estimating prevalence of human traits among populations from polygenic risk scores
Authors: Graham Britney E. , Plotkin Brian , Muglia Louis , Moore Jason H. , Williams Scott M.
Published: December 2021

The genetic basis of phenotypic variation across populations has not been well explained for most traits. Several factors may cause disparities, from variation in environments to divergent population genetic structure. We hypothesized that a population-level polygenic risk score (PRS) can explain phenotypic variation among geographic populations based solely on risk allele frequencies. We applied a population-specific PRS (psPRS) to 26 populations from the 1000 Genomes to four phenotypes: lactase persistence (LP), melanoma, multiple sclerosis (MS) and height. Our models assumed additive genetic architecture among the polymorphisms in the psPRSs, as is convention. Linear psPRSs explained a significant proportion of trait variance ranging from 0.32 for height in men to 0.88 for melanoma. The best models for LP and height were linear, while those for melanoma and MS were nonlinear. As not all variants in a PRS may confer similar, or even any, risk among diverse populations, we also filtered out SNPs to assess whether variance explained was improved using psPRSs with fewer SNPs. Variance explained usually improved with fewer SNPs in the psPRS and was as high as 0.99 for height in men using only 548 of the initial 4208 SNPs. That reducing SNPs improves psPRSs performance may indicate that missing heritability is partially due to complex architecture that does not mandate additivity, undiscovered variants or spurious associations in the databases. We demonstrated that PRS-based analyses can be used across diverse populations and phenotypes for population prediction and that these comparisons can identify the universal risk variants.
Handgun purchasing characteristics and firearm suicide risk: a nested case–control study
Authors: Schleimer Julia P. , Kagawa Rose M. C. , Laqueur Hannah S.
Published: December 2021

Background

Firearms are the most lethal method of suicide and account for approximately half of all suicide deaths nationwide. We describe associations between firearm purchasing characteristics and firearm suicide.

Methods

Data on all legal handgun transactions in California from 1996 to 2015 were obtained from the California Department of Justice Dealer’s Record of Sale database. Handgun purchasers were linked to mortality data to identify those who died between 1996 and 2015. To account for variation in timing and duration of observation time, analyses were stratified by birth cohort. The primary analysis focused on those aged 21–25 in 1996. A secondary analysis tested associations among those aged 50–54 in 1996. Using incidence density sampling, purchasers who died by firearm suicide (cases) were each gender-matched to 5 purchasers (controls) who remained at risk at the case’s time of death. We examined the characteristics of purchasers and transactions, focusing on the transaction closest in time to the case’s death. Data were analyzed with conditional logistic regression.

Results

There were 390 firearm suicides among the younger cohort and 512 firearm suicides among the older cohort. Across both cohorts, older age at first purchase and the purchase of a revolver were associated with greater risk of firearm suicide. For example, among the younger cohort, those who purchased a revolver versus semiautomatic pistol had 1.78 times the risk of firearm suicide (95% CI 1.32, 2.40) in multivariable models. Other associations varied across cohorts, suggesting cohort or age effects in purchasing patterns.

Conclusions

Findings add to the evidence on firearm suicide risk and may help inform prevention strategies and future research.
Increased susceptibility of cystic fibrosis airway epithelial cells to ferroptosis
Authors: Maniam Pramila , Essilfie Ama-Tawiah , Kalimutho Murugan , Ling Dora , Frazer David M. , Phipps Simon , Anderson Gregory J. , Reid David W.
Published: December 2021

Background

Defective chloride transport in airway epithelial cells (AECs) and the associated lung disease are the main causes of morbidity and early mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF). Abnormal airway iron homeostasis and the presence of lipid peroxidation products, indicative of oxidative stress, are features of CF lung disease.

Results

Here, we report that CF AECs (IB3-1) are susceptible to ferroptosis, a type of cell death associated with iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Compared to isogenic CFTR corrected cells (C38), the IB3-1 cells showed increased susceptibility to cell death upon exposure to iron in the form of ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) and the ferroptosis inducer, erastin. This phenotype was accompanied by accumulation of intracellular ferrous iron and lipid peroxides and the extracellular release of malondialdehyde, all indicative of redox stress, and increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase in the culture supernatant, indicating enhanced cell injury. The ferric iron chelator deferoxamine (DFO) and the lipophilic antioxidant ferrostatin-1 inhibited FAC and erastin induced ferroptosis in IB3-1 cells. Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression was decreased in IB3-1 cells treated with FAC and erastin, but was unchanged in C38 AECs. Necroptosis appeared to be involved in the enhanced susceptibility of IB3-1 AECs to ferroptosis, as evidenced by partial cell death rescue with necroptosis inhibitors and enhanced mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) localisation to the plasma membrane.

Conclusion

These studies suggest that the increased susceptibility of CF AECs to ferroptosis is linked to abnormal intracellular ferrous iron accumulation and reduced antioxidant defences. In addition, the process of ferroptotic cell death in CF AECs does not appear to be a single entity and for the first time we describe necroptosis as a potential contributory factor. Iron chelation and antioxidant treatments may be promising therapeutic interventions in cystic fibrosis.

Graphical Abstract
Fabrication of a light-emitting device based on the CdS/ZnS spherical quantum dots
Authors: Hasanirokh Kobra , Asgari Asghar , Mohammadi Saber
Published: December 2021

In this work, we focus on the colloidal quantum dot based light-emitting diodes (QD-LEDs) performance. First, we synthesize the spherical QDs with a CdS core that covered with a wider band gap II–VI semiconductor acting as a shell (ZnS). In order to synthesize this nano crystal QDs with structure of CdS/ZnS/CdS/ZnS, we use a reverse micelle process. These four-layer quantum well quantum dots (QWQDs) can generate the white light emission. The positional design of different layers i.e., core/shell QD emitters is a critical factor for white emissive devices. The blue emission generated by CdS core mixes with green/orange components originating from ZnS inner shell and creates an efficiency white light emission. Then, we fabricate a white-QDLED with a device structure of FTO/ ZnO / QD / CBP/ MoO3 / Al films. A thin film of CdS/ZnS/CdS/ZnS QDs is deposited by electrostatically assembled colloidal QD solutions. The experimental results show that the emission spectra of QDs and current density through the LED are controlled by varying the particle sizes. The peaks of absorbance and Photoluminescence (PL) spectrums for core/shell structures get the red shifted as the dot size increases. Furthermore, this QD-LED with a smaller nano particle layer has a higher current density.
Initial experience in staging primary oesophageal/gastro-oesophageal cancer with 18F-FDG PET/MRI
Authors: Sharkey Amy R. , Sah Bert-Ram , Withey Samuel J. , Bhuva Shaheel , Neji Radhouene , Jeljeli Sami , Green Adrian , Cook Gary J. R. , Goh Vicky ,   On behalf of the Guy’s & St Thomas’ Oesophago-Gastric Research Group, Baker C. R. , Chang F. , Chicklore S. , Cominos M. , Coombes A. , Davies A. R. , George S. , Gill-Barman B. , Dunn J. N. , Gossage J. A. , Griffin N. , Hill M. , Hynes O. , Iezzi C. , Jacques A. , Kelly M. , Mahadeva U. , Maisey N. , McEwan R. , Meenan J. , Ngan S. , Owczarczyk K. , Qureshi A. , Reyhani A. , Subesinghe M. , Tham G. , Waters J. , Zeki S. S.
Published: December 2021

Background

18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (18F-FDG PET/MRI) may improve cancer staging by combining sensitive cancer detection with high-contrast resolution and detail. We compared the diagnostic performance of 18F-FDG PET/MRI to 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) for staging oesophageal/gastro-oesophageal cancer. Following ethical approval and informed consent, participants with newly diagnosed primary oesophageal/gastro-oesophageal cancer were enrolled. Exclusions included prior/concurrent malignancy. Following 324 ± 28 MBq 18F-FDG administration and 60-min uptake, PET/CT was performed, immediately followed by integrated PET/MRI from skull base to mid-thigh. PET/CT was interpreted by two dual-accredited nuclear medicine physicians and PET/MRI by a dual-accredited nuclear medicine physician/radiologist and cancer radiologist in consensus. Per-participant staging was compared with the tumour board consensus staging using the McNemar test, with statistical significance at 5%.

Results

Out of 26 participants, 22 (20 males; mean ± SD age 68.8 ± 8.7 years) completed 18F-FDG PET/CT and PET/MRI. Compared to the tumour board, the primary tumour was staged concordantly in 55% (12/22) with PET/MRI and 36% (8/22) with PET/CT; the nodal stage was concordant in 45% (10/22) with PET/MRI and 50% (11/22) with PET/CT. There was no statistical difference in PET/CT and PET/MRI staging performance (p > 0.05, for T and N staging). The staging of distant metastases was concordant with the tumour board in 95% (21/22) with both PET/MRI and PET/CT. Of participants with distant metastatic disease, PET/MRI detected additional metastases in 30% (3/10).

Conclusion

In this preliminary study, compared to 18F-FDG PET/CT, 18F-FDG PET/MRI showed non-significant higher concordance with T-staging, but no difference with N or M-staging. Additional metastases detected by 18F-FDG PET/MRI may be of additive clinical value.
Evolutionary understanding of airfoil lift
Authors: Liu Tianshu
Published: December 2021

This review attempts to elucidate the physical origin of aerodynamic lift of an airfoil using simple formulations and notations, particularly focusing on the critical effect of the fluid viscosity. The evolutionary development of the lift problem of a flat-plate airfoil is reviewed as a canonical case from the classical inviscid circulation theory to the viscous-flow model. In particular, the physical aspects of the analytical expressions for the lift coefficient of the plate-plate airfoil are discussed, including Newton’s sine-squared law, Rayleigh’s lift formula, thin-airfoil theory and viscous-flow lift formula. The vortex-force theory is described to provide a solid foundation for consistent treatment of lift, form drag, Kutta condition, and downwash. The formation of the circulation and generation of lift are discussed based on numerical simulations of a viscous starting flow over an airfoil, and the evolution of the flow topology near the trailing edge is well correlated with the realization of the Kutta condition. The presented contents are valuable for the pedagogical purposes in aerodynamics and fluid mechanics.
A square root information filter for multi-GNSS real-time precise clock estimation
Authors: Zuo Xiang , Jiang Xinyuan , Li Pan , Wang Jungang , Ge Maorong , Schuh Harald
Published: December 2021

Real-time satellite orbit and clock estimations are the prerequisite for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) real-time precise positioning services. To meet the high-rate update requirement of satellite clock corrections, the computational efficiency is a key factor and a challenge due to the rapid development of multi-GNSS constellations. The Square Root Information Filter (SRIF) is widely used in real-time GNSS data processing thanks to its high numerical stability and computational efficiency. In real-time clock estimation, the outlier detection and elimination are critical to guarantee the precision and stability of the product but could be time-consuming. In this study, we developed a new quality control procedure including the three standard steps: i.e., detection, identification, and adaption, for real-time data processing of huge GNSS networks. Effort is made to improve the computational efficiency by optimizing the algorithm to provide only the essential information required in the processing, so that it can be applied in real-time and high-rate estimation of satellite clocks. The processing procedure is implemented in the PANDA (Positioning and Navigation Data Analyst) software package and evaluated in the operational generation of real-time GNSS orbit and clock products. We demonstrated that the new algorithm can efficiently eliminate outliers, and a clock precision of 0.06 ns, 0.24 ns, 0.06 ns, and 0.11 ns can be achieved for the GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BDS-2 IGSO/MEO satellites, respectively. The computation time per epoch is about 2 to 3 s depending on the number of existing outliers. Overall, the algorithm can satisfy the IGS real-time clock estimation in terms of both the computational efficiency and product quality.
Rare benign tumor in a prepubescent accessory breast: a case report
Authors: Tulsian Akriti , Basu Syamantak , Makan Apoorva , Joseph Vini , Gandhi Suraj , Shenoy Neha Sisodiya , Shah Hemanshi
Published: December 2021

Background

Polymastia or accessory breast is a congenital condition seen in 1% of the population at birth and in 2–6% of the female population. The most common presentation is in the pubertal age group when secondary sexual characters begin to develop or during pregnancy and lactation. Giant cell fibroblastoma is an exceedingly rare benign soft tissue neoplasm in the pediatric age group, usually seen over the back and thigh. We report a case of giant cell fibroblastoma in accessory breast tissue in a 4-year-old, female child. This case is rare in its presentation at the age of 4 years with an enlarging accessory breast without any secondary sexual characters. Giant cell fibroblastoma in the accessory breast tissue is unreported yet.

Case presentation

A 4-year-old female child presented with a progressively enlarging accessory breast. A wide local excision of the accessory breast with underlying growth was done. The histopathological examination revealed a giant cell fibroblastoma within the breast tissue.

Conclusions

Enlargement of an accessory or normal breast at a prepubescent age with the absence of secondary sexual characters should arouse suspicion of benign tumors in the breast tissue.
“Platformization” beyond the Point of Production
Authors: Benvegnù Carlotta , Kampouri Nelli
Published: December 2021

Outside of the literature focusing on the platformization of specific “informal” feminized and racialized sectors, especially care and domestic work, in which reproductive labor has been traditionally carried out, there is a dearth of research on platforms from long-term and intersectional perspectives that go beyond the mere male/female balance. This essay, based on ongoing research and founded on a series of interviews with ride-hailing and food-delivery platform workers in London and Paris, explores the impact of digi-talization in two male-dominated sectors. It shows how reproductive labor weighs on the lives of platform workers, determining their tactics, strategies, and working patterns.
Documenting the Everyday Hidden Resistance of Ride-Hailing Platform Drivers to Algorithmic Management in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Arubayi Daniel
Published: December 2021

Ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, an integral component in the global platform economy, are not only facilitating fluidity and so-called autonomy of labor; they are also creating an unfair working environment for workers. This phenomenon indicates the strength of a highly temporal and mobile capital, pitted against workers not just in Lagos but around the world. This article adopts James Scott’s notion of everyday resistance in exposing some of the hidden practices of platform drivers in Lagos. It finds that sabotaging and falsely complying through manipulating algorithms and gaming spaces for rewards are facilitated by social media and communication networks, are deliberate, hidden practices to subvert algorithmic control. While Lagos is a unique case in the global South, examples from global North cities highlight some peculiarity. A robust qualitative methodology was conducted comprising semistructured interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observations from forty Uber and Bolt trips. Other primary data sources include driver forums, attending driver training sessions and listening to transport radio programs.

This article identifies temporal and spatial dynamics in recognizing everyday hidden practices as not always hidden, but dispersed and inconsistent because of the mutual learning capabilities between platform drivers and algorithmic managers. The hidden transcripts of platform drivers delve into public realms and back following, enabling platform drivers to develop new hidden practices, typifying a continuous power struggle in Lagos.
The Abl-interactor Abi suppresses the function of the BRAG2 GEF family member Schizo
Authors: Lübke Stefanie , Braukmann Carina , Rexer Karl-Heinz , Cigoja Lubjinka , Rout Pratiti , Önel Susanne F.
Published: December 2021

Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEF) of the BRAG subfamily activate small Arf GTPases, which are pivotal regulators of intracellular membrane traffic and actin dynamics. Consequently, BRAG proteins have been implicated to regulate the surface levels of adhesive and signaling receptors. However, not much is known about the mechanism leading to the regulation of these surface proteins. In this study, we found that the Drosophila BRAG GEF Schizo interacts physically with the Abl-interactor (Abi). schizo mutants display severe defects in myoblast fusion during syncytial muscle formation and show increased amounts of the cell adhesion protein N-cadherin. We demonstrate that the schizo myoblast fusion phenotype can be rescued by the expression of the Schizo GEF (Sec7) and membrane-binding (pleckstrin homology) domain. Furthermore, the expression of the Sec7-PH domain in a wild-type background decreases the amounts of N-cadherin and impairs myoblast fusion. These findings support the notion that the Sec7-PH domain serves as a constitutive-active form of Schizo. Using a yeast-two hybrid assay, we show that the SH3 domain of Abi interacts with the N-terminal region of Schizo. This region is also able to bind to the cytodomain of the cell adhesion molecule N-cadherin. To shed light on the function of Schizo and Abi in N-cadherin removal, we employed epistasis experiments in different developmental contexts of Drosophila. These studies point towards a new model for the regulation of Schizo. We propose that the binding of Abi to the N-terminal part of Schizo antagonizes Schizo function to inhibit N-cadherin removal.
Reframing organizations in the digital age: A qualitative study exploring institutional social media adoption involving emergency physicians and other researchers
Authors: Yilmaz Yusuf , Ruan Brandon , Thomas Priya , Tran Victoria , M. Chan Teresa
Published: December 2021

Background: Social media is changing the modern academic landscape; this study sought to explore how organizational structures support or inhibit the harnessing of social media use in academic contexts and knowledge translation.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using framework analysis based on the Bolman and Deal’s Four-Frame Model—structural, human resources, political and symbolic. The research team used the snowball sampling technique to recruit participants following the completion of each participant’s semi-structured interview. A member check was completed to ensure rigour.

Results: 16 social media educators and experts from several countries participated in the study. Study findings showed that within the Structural Frame, participants’ organizations were reported to have with diverse hierarchical structures, ranging hospital-based (strict), education institutional-based and online only groups (malleable). The Human Resources Frame revealed that most participants’ social media organizations operated on unpaid volunteer staff. The training of these staff was primarily via role-modeling and mentorship. Regarding the Political Frame, social media helped participants accumulate scholarly currency and influence within their field of practice. The Symbolic Frame showed a wide range of traditional to non-traditional organizational supports, which interacted with both intrinsic to extrinsic motivation.

Conclusions: Bolman and Deal’s Four-Frame Model framework may serve as an effective guideline for academic leaders who wish to strategically implement or enhance social media use into their organizations. The key insights that we have gained from our participants are how new emerging forms of scholarly pursuits can be more effectively enabled or hindered by the attributes of the organization within which these are occurring.
Performance profiling of the unit trust funds in Malaysia with data mining techniques
Authors: Khairuddin Aida Farah , Ng Keng-Hoong , Khor Kok-Chin
Published: December 2021

Background: Millennials are exposed to many investment opportunities, and they have shown their interest in gaining more income via investments. One popular investment avenue is unit trusts. However, analysing unit trusts’ financial data and gaining valuable insights may not be as simple because not everyone has the required financial knowledge and adequate time to perform in-depth analytics on the numerous financial data. Furthermore, it is not easy to compile the performance of each unit trust available in Malaysia. The primary objective of this research is to identify unit trust funds that provide higher returns than their average peers via performance profiling. 

Methods: This research proposed a performance profiling on Malaysia unit trust funds using the two data mining techniques, i.e., Expectation Maximisation (EM) and Apriori, to assist amateur retail investors to choose the right unit trust based on their risk tolerance. EM clustered the unit trust funds in Malaysia into several groups based on their annual financial performances. This was then followed by finding the rules associated with each cluster by applying Apriori. The resulted rules shall serve the purpose of profiling the clustered unit trust funds. Retail investors can then select their preferred unit trust funds based on the performance profile of the clusters. 

Results: The yearly average total return of the financial year 2018 and 2019 was used to evaluate unit trust funds’ performance in the clusters. The evaluation results indicated that the profiling could provide valuable and insightful information to retail investors with varying risk appetites.  

Conclusions: This research has demonstrated that the financial performance profiling of unit trust funds could be acquired via data mining approaches. This valuable information is crucial to unit trust investors for selecting suitable funds in investment.
Customer churn prediction for telecommunication industry: A Malaysian Case Study
Authors: Mustafa Nurulhuda , Sook Ling Lew , Abdul Razak Siti Fatimah
Published: December 2021

Background: Customer churn is a term that refers to the rate at which customers leave the business. Churn could be due to various factors, including switching to a competitor, cancelling their subscription because of poor customer service, or discontinuing all contact with a brand due to insufficient touchpoints. Long-term relationships with customers are more effective than trying to attract new customers. A rise of 5% in customer satisfaction is followed by a 95% increase in sales. By analysing past behaviour, companies can anticipate future revenue. This article will look at which variables in the Net Promoter Score (NPS) dataset influence customer churn in Malaysia's telecommunications industry. 

The aim of This study was to identify the factors behind customer churn and propose a churn prediction framework currently lacking in the telecommunications industry.  

Methods: This study applied data mining techniques to the NPS dataset from a Malaysian telecommunications company in September 2019 and September 2020, analysing 7776 records with 30 fields to determine which variables were significant for the churn prediction model. We developed a propensity for customer churn using the Logistic Regression, Linear Discriminant Analysis, K-Nearest Neighbours Classifier, Classification and Regression Trees (CART), Gaussian Naïve Bayes, and Support Vector Machine using 33 variables.  

Results: Customer churn is elevated for customers with a low NPS. However, an immediate helpdesk can act as a neutral party to ensure that the customer needs are met and to determine an employee's ability to obtain customer satisfaction.  

Conclusions: It can be concluded that CART has the most accurate churn prediction (98%). However, the research is prohibited from accessing personal customer information under Malaysia's data protection policy. Results are expected for other businesses to measure potential customer churn using NPS scores to gather customer feedback.
The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on older adults with an intellectual disability during the first wave of the pandemic in Ireland
Authors: McCarron Mary , McCausland Darren , Luus Retha , Allen Andrew , Sheerin Fintan , Burke Eilish , McGlinchy Eimear , Flannery Fidelma , McCallion Philip
Published: December 2021

Background: People with intellectual disability have increased risk of exposure to and adverse outcomes from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).They also face challenges to mental health and well-being from COVID-19-related social restrictions and service closures.

Methods: Data from a supplemental COVID-19 survey from the Intellectual Disability Supplement to the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS-TILDA) (n=710) was used to assess outcomes from the first infection wave of COVID-19 among adults with intellectual disability aged 40+ years in Ireland. Data was gathered on testing, for symptoms and outcomes; procedures to manage COVID-19; and both stress/anxiety and positive experiences during the pandemic. Demographic and health-related data from the main IDS-TILDA dataset was included in analyses.

Results: High rates were identified of health conditions associated with poorer COVID-19 outcomes, including overweight/obesity (66.6%, n=365), high cholesterol (38.6%, n=274) and cardiovascular disease (33.7%, n=239). Over half (53.5%, n=380) reported emotional, nervous or psychiatric disorders. Almost two-thirds (62.4%, n=443) were tested for COVID-19, with 10% (n=71) reporting symptoms and 2.5% (n=11) testing positive. There were no instances of COVID-19 related mortality. Common symptoms included fatigue, fever, and cough. Some participants (7.8%, n=55) moved from their usual home, most often to isolate (n=31) or relocate to a family home (n=11). Three-quarters (78.7%) of those who were symptomatic or who tested positive had plans to manage self-isolation and two-thirds were able to comply with guidelines. Over half (55%, n=383) reported some COVID-19 related stress/anxiety; and a similar proportion reported positive aspects during this period (58%, n=381).

Conclusions: Our data suggests that people with intellectual disability avoided the worst impacts of COVID-19 during the first infection wave in Ireland. Nevertheless, participants’ health profiles suggest that this population remains at high risk for adverse infection outcomes. Repeated measures are needed to track health and well-being outcomes across multiple infection waves.
Ethics as attention to context: recommendations for the ethics of artificial intelligence
Authors: Resseguier Anais , Rodrigues Rowena
Published: December 2021

This article shows that current ethics guidance documents and initiatives for artificial intelligence (AI) tend to be dominated by a principled approach to ethics. Although this brings value to the field, it also entails some risks, especially in relation to the abstraction of this form of ethics that makes it poorly equipped to engage with and address deep socio-political issues and the material impacts of AI. This is particularly problematic considering the risk for AI to further entrench already existing social inequalities and injustices and contribute to environmental damage. To respond to this challenge posed by AI ethics today, this article proposes to complement the existing principled approach with an approach to ethics as attention to context and relations. It does so by drawing from alternative ethical theories to the dominant principled one, especially the ethics of care or other feminist approaches to ethics. Related to this, it encourages the inclusion of social sciences and humanities in the development, deployment and use of AI, as well as in AI ethics discussions and initiatives. This article presents this proposal for an ethics as attention to context and formulates a series of practical recommendations to implement this proposal concretely.