bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic behaviors of a nonautonomous predator–prey system with Holling type II schemes and a prey refuge
Authors: Wu Yumin , Chen Fengde , Du Caifeng
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we consider a nonautonomous predator–prey model with Holling type II schemes and a prey refuge. By applying the comparison theorem of differential equations and constructing a suitable Lyapunov function, sufficient conditions that guarantee the permanence and global stability of the system are obtained. By applying the oscillation theory and the comparison theorem of differential equations, a set of sufficient conditions that guarantee the extinction of the predator of the system is obtained.
On nonlinear pantograph fractional differential equations with Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo derivative
Authors: Abdo Mohammed S. , Abdeljawad Thabet , Kucche Kishor D. , Alqudah Manar A. , Ali Saeed M. , Jeelani Mdi Begum
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we obtain sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness results of the pantograph fractional differential equations (FDEs) with nonlocal conditions involving Atangana–Baleanu–Caputo (ABC) derivative operator with fractional orders. Our approach is based on the reduction of FDEs to fractional integral equations and on some fixed point theorems such as Banach’s contraction principle and the fixed point theorem of Krasnoselskii. Further, Gronwall’s inequality in the frame of the Atangana–Baleanu fractional integral operator is applied to develop adequate results for different kinds of Ulam–Hyers stabilities. Lastly, the paper includes an example to substantiate the validity of the results.
Enhancing innovation speed through trust: a case study on reframing employee defensive routines
Authors: Mitcheltree Christina Marie
Published: January 2021

Trust in organizations plays an essential role for efficient innovation implementation. However, trust between managers and employees is under-communicated in relation to innovation speed. Innovation speed is related to innovation adoption, concerning new ways of performing laboratory services within the health sector. The purpose of this case study is to investigate how trust mechanisms may enhance innovation speed by reducing employee decisions to perform defensive routines. The focus is related to trust as a social condition for enhancing innovation acceptance in the context of management and organizing styles subject to the Norwegian Work Life Model.

The study found that a lack of employee participation and involvement may result in emotional tension, a sense of uncertainty, disconnect, and various defensive mechanisms towards management and the innovation. Consequently, employees’ attention, loyalty, and responsibility might be redirected away from the innovation.
Effect of Zanthoxylum alkylamides on glucose metabolism in streptozotocin-induced diabetic Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Wang Rui , You Yu-ming , Liu Xiong
Published: January 2021

This research aimed at investigating the hypoglycemic effect ofZanthoxylumalkylamides and whether TRPV1 receptor could participate in the glucose metabolism by using streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model. The results showed that the blood glucose measured in theZanthoxylumalkylamides treated group (ALK) showed significantly lower values than that in the model group (Model). Significant improvements in the oral glucose tolerance as well as plasma insulin and hepatic glycogen were also observed in the ALK group, when compared to the model group. However, the improving effects ofZanthoxylumalkylamides on glucose metabolism disorder in diabetic rats were markedly inhibited by capsazepine as the TRPV1 receptor antagonist. In addition, there were significant differences in the levels of mRNA and protein of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCK), gucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase), glucokinase (GK) and cannabinoid receptor l (CB1) in the livers of the ALK group compared to model group. Meanwhile, ALK group also exhibited a remarkable increase in the pancreatic-duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX-1), glucose transporter 2 (GLUT 2), GK levels and a significant decrease in the expression levels of CB1 in the pancreas, while the presence of capsazepine would affected the expression of these genes. These findings indicate thatZanthoxylumalkylamides could ameliorate the glucose metabolism disorder in diabetic rats. Furthermore, the TRPV1 receptor could participate in regulating the expressions of genes and proteins related to glucose metabolism and insulin secretion in the liver and pancreas, and takes a role in the hypoglycemic process ofZanthoxylumalkylamides.
Intracellular arginine-dependent translation sensor reveals the dynamics of arginine starvation response and resistance in ASS1-negative cells
Authors: Rogers Leonard C. , Zhou Jing , Baker Adriana , Schutt Charles R. , Panda Prashanta K. , Van Tine Brian A.
Published: January 2021

Background

Many cancers silence the metabolic enzyme argininosuccinate synthetase 1 (ASS1), the rate-limiting enzyme for arginine biosynthesis within the urea cycle. Consequently, ASS1-negative cells are susceptible to depletion of extracellular arginine by PEGylated arginine deiminase (ADI-PEG20), an agent currently being developed in clinical trials. As the primary mechanism of resistance to arginine depletion is re-expression of ASS1, we sought a tool to understand the temporal emergence of the resistance phenotype at the single-cell level.

Methods

A real-time, single-cell florescence biosensor was developed to monitor arginine-dependent protein translation. The versatile, protein-based sensor provides temporal information about the metabolic adaptation of cells, as it is able to quantify and track individual cells over time.

Results

Every ASS1-deficient cell analyzed was found to respond to arginine deprivation by decreased expression of the sensor, indicating an absence of resistance in the naïve cell population. However, the temporal recovery and emergence of resistance varied widely amongst cells, suggesting a heterogeneous metabolic response. The sensor also enabled determination of a minimal arginine concentration required for its optimal translation.

Conclusions

The translation-dependent sensor developed here is able to accurately track the development of resistance in ASS1-deficient cells treated with ADI-PEG20. Its ability to track single cells over time allowed the determination that resistance is not present in the naïve population, as well as elucidating the heterogeneity of the timing and extent of resistance. This tool represents a useful advance in the study of arginine deprivation, while its design has potential to be adapted to other amino acids.
Anxiety among dental professionals and its association with their dependency on social media for health information: insights from the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Al-Amad Suhail H. , Hussein Amal
Published: January 2021

Background

Social media can play a detrimental role during a global health emergency. In this study, we aimed at assessing the impact social media has on the anxiety level of dental healthcare workers (DHCWs) whilst living through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

An online questionnaire was disseminated to a cross-sectional sample of DHCWs from 19 countries using social media platforms. The questionnaire enquired about DHCWs’ frequency of using social media and their dependency on health-related information posted on those platforms. Anxiety was measured using General Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7).

Results

Four-hundred and three (403) DHCWs completed the online questionnaire. Sixty-eight percent (68%) frequently use social media for information on COVID-19. The frequency of social media use was higher among younger DHCWs, with shorter clinical experience, and holders of undergraduate qualifications (p = 0.009, p = 0.002, and p = 0.023, respectively). Almost one third of DHCWs had moderate to severe anxiety (31.7%), which was significantly associated with the frequency of social media use (p = 0.016). This association was adjusted for age, years of experience and qualification level (OR 1.75; 95% CI 1.05–2.93; p = 0.032).

Conclusion

COVID-19 social media infodemic has been adversely impacting the psychological wellbeing of DHCWs. More effective measures are needed to control the quality and spreadability of health information on social media platforms.
Change in quality of life and self-esteem in a randomized controlled CBT study for anxious and sad children: can targeting anxious and depressive symptoms improve functional domains in schoolchildren?
Authors: Martinsen Kristin D. , Rasmussen Lene-Mari P. , Wentzel-Larsen Tore , Holen Solveig , Sund Anne Mari , Pedersen Marit Løtveit , Løvaas Mona Elisabeth S. , Patras Joshua , Adolfsen Frode , Neumer Simon-Peter
Published: January 2021

Background

Quality of life and self-esteem are functional domains that may suffer when having mental problems. In this study, we examined the change in quality of life and self-esteem when targeting anxious and depressive symptoms in school children (8–12 years) using a CBT-based transdiagnostic intervention called EMOTION, Kids Coping with anxiety and depression. The aim of this study was to investigate quality of life and self-esteem in children with elevated levels of anxious and depressive symptoms, and further if the EMOTION intervention could influence these important functional domains.

Methods

The study had a clustered randomized design (cRCT), whereN = 795 children recruited from 36 schools participated. The children were included based on self-reports of anxious and depressive symptoms. Schools were the unit of randomization and were assigned to intervention or control condition. Children in the intervention condition received the 10-week EMOTION intervention. Mixed effects models were used to take account of the possible clustering of data. Separate models were estimated for the dependent variables.

Results

Children with elevated levels of anxious and depressive symptoms reported lower levels of quality of life and self-esteem compared to normative samples, with girls and older children reporting the lowest levels. For both genders and older children, a large and significant increase in quality of life and self-esteem was found among the children who received the intervention compared to the children in the control condition. Children in the intervention group reporting both anxious and depressive symptoms showed a significantly larger increase in both quality of life and self-esteem compared to the controls. Reductions in quality of life and self-esteem were partially mediated by reductions in symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Conclusions

Participating in an intervention targeting emotional symptoms may have a positive effect on quality of life and self-esteem in addition to reducing anxious and depressive symptoms. Improved quality of life may increase the child’s satisfaction and subjective perception of wellbeing. As low self-esteem may lead to anxious and depressive symptoms, improving this functional domain in children may make them more robust dealing with future emotional challenges.

Trial registrationNCT02340637, retrospectively registered
Optimization of subcritical water extraction of phenolic compounds from Ziziphus jujuba using response surface methodology: evaluation of thermal stability and antioxidant activity
Authors: Niazmand Razieh , Shahidi Noghabi Mostafa , Niazmand Azam
Published: January 2021

Background

The jujube is mainly grown in the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia. Due to owning bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, it was considered as medicinal and nutritional plant in traditional medicine. This study aimed to extract phenolic compounds from Ziziphus jujuba using subcritical water (SCW) process. The possible combinations of temperature, time, and fruit-to-solvent ratio were investigated using response surface methodology.

Results

The total phenolic compounds (TPC) and radical scavenging capacity (RSC) of 975.94 mg/g and 53.98%, respectively, were recovered at optimum extraction conditions (170 °C, 74.49 min, and fruit-to-solvent ratio of 1:5.29). The extract obtained in SCW optimum conditions was put under thermal treatments including low temperature long time, high temperature short time, cooking, baking, and sterilization. The results showed after baking, the amount of TPC, RSC, and absorbance at 420 nm increased. The quantity of gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, and rutin increased significantly. The efficiency of SCW extract in retarding lipid oxidation in bulk oil and O/W emulsion model was investigated at 50 °C for 10 days. After 10 days, the peroxide value of bulk oil (1.1 meq O2/kg) containing SCW extract was lower than O/W emulsion model (2.2 meq O2/kg).

Conclusion

The subcritical extracted phenolic compounds seem to have good antioxidant activity as well as thermal stability for using in food or drug industries.
The discovery of biological subphenotypes in ARDS: a novel approach to targeted medicine?
Authors: Wildi Karin , Livingstone Samantha , Palmieri Chiara , LiBassi Gianluigi , Suen Jacky , Fraser John
Published: January 2021

The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe lung disorder with a high morbidity and mortality which affects all age groups. Despite active research with intense, ongoing attempts in developing pharmacological agents to treat ARDS, its mortality rate remains unaltered high and treatment is still only supportive. Over the years, there have been many attempts to identify meaningful subgroups likely to react differently to treatment among the heterogenous ARDS population, most of them unsuccessful. Only recently, analysis of large ARDS cohorts from randomized controlled trials have identified the presence of distinct biological subphenotypes among ARDS patients: a hypoinflammatory (or uninflamed; named P1) and a hyperinflammatory (or reactive; named P2) subphenotype have been proposed and corroborated with existing retrospective data. The hyperinflammatory subphenotyope was clearly associated with shock state, metabolic acidosis, and worse clinical outcomes. Core features of the respective subphenotypes were identified consistently in all assessed cohorts, independently of the studied population, the geographical location, the study design, or the analysis method. Additionally and clinically even more relevant treatment efficacies, as assessed retrospectively, appeared to be highly dependent on the respective subphenotype. This discovery launches a promising new approach to targeted medicine in ARDS. Even though it is now widely accepted that each ARDS subphenotype has distinct functional, biological, and mechanistic differences, there are crucial gaps in our knowledge, hindering the translation to bedside application. First of all, the underlying driving biological factors are still largely unknown, and secondly, there is currently no option for fast and easy identification of ARDS subphenotypes. This narrative review aims to summarize the evidence in biological subphenotyping in ARDS and tries to point out the current issues that will need addressing before translation of biological subohenotypes into clinical practice will be possible.
Effect of data conserving respiratory motion compensation on left ventricular functional parameters assessed in gated myocardial perfusion SPECT
Authors: Kortelainen Matti J , Koivumäki Tuomas M , Vauhkonen Marko J , Hakulinen Mikko A
Published: January 2021

Background

Respiratory motion compromises image quality in myocardial perfusion (MP) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging and may affect analysis of left ventricular (LV) functional parameters, including phase analysis-quantified mechanical dyssynchrony parameters. In this paper, we investigate the performance of two algorithms, respiratory blur modeling (RBM) and joint motion-compensated (JMC) ordered-subsets expectation maximization (OSEM), and the effects of motion compensation on cardiac-gated MP-SPECT studies.

Methods

Image acquisitions were carried out with a dual-detector SPECT/CT system in list-mode format. A cardiac phantom was imaged as stationary and under respiratory motion. The images were reconstructed with OSEM, RBM-OSEM, and JMC-OSEM algorithms, and compared in terms of mean squared error (MSE). Subsequently, MP-SPECT data of 19 patients were binned into dual-gated (respiratory and cardiac gating) projection images. The images of the patients were analyzed with Quantitative Gated SPECT (QGS) 2012 program (Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, USA). The parameters of interest were LV volumes, ejection fraction, wall motion, wall thickening, phase analysis, and perfusion parameters.

Results

In phantom experiment, compared to the stationary OSEM reconstruction, the MSE values for OSEM, RBM-OSEM, and JMC-OSEM were 8.5406·10−5,2.7190·10−5, and 2.0795·10−5, respectively. In the analysis of LV function, use of JMC had a small but statistically significant (p < 0.05) effect on several parameters: it increased LV volumes and standard deviation of phase angle histogram, and it decreased ejection fraction, global wall motion, and lateral, septal, and apical perfusion.

Conclusions

Compared to standard OSEM algorithm, RBM-OSEM and JMC-OSEM both improve image quality under motion. Motion compensation has a minor effect on LV functional parameters.
Resorption of retromolar bone grafts after alveolar ridge augmentation—volumetric changes after 12 months assessed by CBCT analysis
Authors: Stricker Andres , Jacobs Reinhilde , Maes Frederik , Fluegge Tabea , Vach Kirstin , Fleiner Jonathan
Published: January 2021

In this pilot study, a volumetric analysis of retromolar onlay bone grafts over a period of 12 months was conducted, using repeated CBCT imaging combined with automated image registration.

Eleven patients being treated with 16 bone grafts taken from the retromolar area were examined by CBCT scanning prior to bone augmentation (T0), immediately after bone augmentation (T1) and after a healing time of 12 months after augmentation (T2). Graft volumes were measured at each time point after automated image registration of consecutive CBCT scans.

The mean volume of the augmented site was 372.2 ± 179.4 mm3. Resorption relative to the original augmented volume was 43.7% ± 19.0% after 12 months.

Three-dimensional graft resorption could be precisely depicted by the use of automated image registration for CBCT data over a period of 12 months and demonstrated extensive volumetric changes of bone grafts taken from the ascending ramus of the mandible.

Graft resorption and continuous bony remodeling of the grafted site before and after implant insertion have to be carefully considered by the clinician.
First documented record of the leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) from Djibouti waters
Authors: Boldrocchi Ginevra , Schmidt Jennifer V. , Robinson David P.
Published: January 2021

A subadult leatherback turtle was documented in the Gulf of Goubet (Djibouti) during a research expedition. This sighting confirms for the first time previous anecdotal observations of the occurrence of the leatherback turtle, Dermochelys coriacea (Vandelli, 1761), in Djibouti waters. Coupled with observations from fishers, this finding underlines the urgent need to carry out research programs to evaluate the species habitat use within Djibouti waters, and to review the species distribution in the Gulf of Aden. Although marine turtles are protected in Djibouti, illegal harvest and entanglement in fishing gear pose a threat to their survival, and conservation measures should be implemented.
Activity competence among infants and toddlers with developmental disabilities: Rasch analysis of the Infant Toddler Activity Card Sort (ITACS)
Authors: Hoyt Catherine R. , L’Hotta Allison J. , Bauer Anna H. , Chang Chih-Hung , Varughese Taniya E. , Abel Regina A. , King Allison A.
Published: January 2021

Background

Development is rapid in the first years of life. Developmental delays appearing during this critical period have the potential to persist throughout the child’s life. Available standardized assessments for this age record a child’s ability to successfully complete discrete skills but fail to capture whether the child incorporates those skills into daily routines that are meaningful to the child and family. The Infant Toddler Activity Card Sort (ITACS) is a newly developed photograph-based early intervention tool to measure the participation-related concept of activity competence using caregiver report. The purpose of the present study was to use Rasch analysis to determine if ITACS items comprehensively measure the construct of child activity competence.

Results

A total of 60 child/caregiver dyads participated. The dichotomous caregiver-reported responses (present vs. absent) on the 40 individual ITACS items were used in Rasch analysis, and three iterations of the model were completed. The final model included 51 child/caregiver dyads and 67 ITACS assessments with a good spread of individual ability measure (6.47 logits). All items demonstrated adequate infit except for “sleeping” (range 0.68–1.54). Five items (sleeping, eating at restaurants, brushing teeth, crawling, and interact with pets) demonstrated high Mean Square (MNSQ) outfit statistics and one (take a bath) demonstrated low MNSQ outfit. ITACS items demonstrated a good spread of item difficulty measures (6.27 logits), and a clear ceiling was observed. Three activity items (smiling, breastfeeding, and playing with adults) were rarely endorsed as concerns. The activities most likely to be reported as challenging were “crying/communicating” and “going to school”. Person and item reliability statistics were adequate (0.79 and 0.80, respectively). The separation between individuals and between items were adequate to good (1.96 and 1.99, respectively).

Conclusions

Findings indicate that ITACS items are measuring a unidimensional construct--activity competence in early childhood. The Rasch analysis of caregiver responses suggest that some activities are more likely to be considered challenging and may be important targets for intervention. These results provide evidence to further validate the ITACS as a caregiver report measure and support its use in the early intervention setting to facilitate caregiver driven goal development.
A challenging case of a successful outcome of cesarean section with combined spinal–epidural technique in a parturient with Eisenmenger syndrome
Authors: Gehlot Ravindra Kr. , Verma Devendra , Raiger L. K.
Published: January 2021

Background

Eisenmenger syndrome belongs to the 0.4–4.1% (incidence) rarely encountered congenital cardiac lesions in pregnancy. Management of a pregnant patient with Eisenmenger syndrome is a challenging task for the anesthesiologist.

Case presentation

Here, we report the successful outcome with the use of low-dose sequential combined spinal–epidural (CSE) anesthesia in a patient with Eisenmenger syndrome posted for cesarean section. Low-dose sequential CSE anesthesia was adequate for the performance of cesarean section with minimal hemodynamic changes and good fetal outcome.

Conclusion

Low-dose sequential CSE can be a safe alternative to achieve good anesthesia with hemodynamic stability in such case.
A conceptual design for deflection device in VTDP system
Authors: Gao Yongwei , Zhang Jianming , Wang Long , Chen Bingzhen , Wei Binbin
Published: January 2021

The effectiveness of the Vectored Thrust Ducted Propeller (VTDP) system is not high currently, especially the lateral force is not large enough. Thus, a conceptual design for a deflection device of a VTDP system was proposed to achieve effective hovering control. The magnitude of the lateral force that was applied to maintain balance while hovering was examined. A comparison between the experimental and numerical results for the 16H-1 was made to verify the numerical simulation approach. The deflection devices of the X-49 and the proposed design were analyzed using numerical simulations. The results indicated that a larger lateral force and lower power consumption were presented in the proposed design. The results of this article provide a new idea for the design of the VTDP system.
Simultaneous joint migration inversion with calendar-time constraints as a processing tool for semi-continuous surveys
Authors: Qu Shan , Verschuur Eric
Published: January 2021

Nowadays, to obtain a better understanding of dynamic time-lapse changes, frequent seismic monitoring is necessary, although it will generate a considerable cost increase. Therefore, low-cost frequent monitoring, e.g., sparse and/or nonrepeated surveys, is desired. The simultaneous inversion-based method allows the baseline and monitor parameters to communicate and compensate with each other during inversion via constraints and helps to reduce the artifacts caused by sparse acquisition. These features make it largely independent of the used low-cost acquisition geometry and suitable for inexpensive frequent monitoring surveys. Therefore, we have used this simultaneous inversion-based method as an effective time-lapse processing tool for data sets acquired from inexpensive, semi-continuous time-lapse monitoring surveys, which are based on the so-called instantaneous 4D (i4D) technology. We choose a specific simultaneous inversion method called simultaneous joint migration inversion (S-JMI), which combines a simultaneous processing strategy with the JMI method. In i4D technology, inexpensive localized/sparse surveys, called i4D surveys, are deployed frequently between the conventional full-field surveys. This technology can be treated as a special case of changing geometries during monitoring. In this case, the simultaneous strategy allows the information of the full-field survey to compensate for the insufficient illumination of the localized/sparse i4D surveys during processing. Furthermore, we apply constraints on the reflectivity and velocity differences between the baseline and monitor vintages along the calendar-time axis called calendar-time constraints. These constraints take advantage of the feature that time-lapse effects develop (semi-)continuously along the calendar-time axis, when the monitoring surveys are deployed (semi-)continuously over calendar time. Based on a complex synthetic example, we determined that S-JMI is a promising tool to process the data sets from the semi-continuous monitoring surveys based on i4D technology. Finally, we found that the calendar-time constraints significantly improve the quality of time-lapse effects.
Optimization-inspired deep learning high-resolution inversion for seismic data
Authors: Chen Hongling , Gao Jinghuai , Jiang Xiudi , Gao Zhaoqi , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2021

Seismic high-resolution processing plays a critical role in reservoir target detection. As one of the most common approaches, regularization can achieve a high-resolution inversion result. However, the performance of regularization depends on the settings of the associated parameters and constraint functions. Further, it is difficult to solve an objective function with complex constraints, and it requires designing an optimization algorithm. In addition, existing algorithms have high computational complexity, which impedes the inversion of the large data volume. To address these problems, an optimization-inspired deep learning inversion solver is proposed to solve the blind high-resolution inverse (BHRI) problems of various seismic wavelets rapidly, called BHRI-Net. The method builds on ideas from classic regularization theory and recent advances in deep learning, and it makes full use of prior information encoded in the forward operator and noise model to learn an accurate mapping relationship. It unrolls the alternating iterative BHRI algorithm into a deep neural network, and it applies the convolutional neural network to learn proximal mappings, in which all parameters of the BHRI algorithm are learned from training data. Further, the proposed network can be split into two parts and incorporate the transfer learning strategy to invert field data, which increases the flexibility of the proposed network and reduces training time. Finally, the tests on synthetic and field data show that the proposed method can effectively invert the high-resolution data and seismic wavelet from observation data with improved accuracy and high computational efficiency.
Islet Function and Insulin Sensitivity in Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults Taking Sitagliptin: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Yang Lin , Liang Huiying , Liu Xinyuan , Wang Xia , Cheng Ying , Zhao Yunjuan , Liu Lingjiao , Huang Gan , Wang Xiangbing , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: January 2021

Context

The long-term effects of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors on β-cell function and insulin sensitivity in latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) are unclear.

Objective

To investigate the effects of sitagliptin on β-cell function and insulin sensitivity in LADA patients receiving insulin.

Design and Setting

A randomized controlled trial at the Second Xiangya Hospital.

Methods

Fifty-one patients with LADA were randomized to sitagliptin + insulin (SITA) group or insulin alone (CONT) group for 24 months.

Main Outcome Measures

Fasting C-peptide (FCP), 2-hour postprandial C-peptide (2hCP) during mixed-meal tolerance test, △CP (2hCP – FCP), and updated homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function (HOMA2-B) were determined every 6 months. In 12 subjects, hyperglycemic clamp and hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp (HEC) tests were further conducted at 12-month intervals.

Results

During the 24-month follow-up, there were no significant changes in β-cell function in the SITA group, whereas the levels of 2hCP and △CP in the CONT group were reduced at 24 months. Meanwhile, the changes in HOMA2-B from baseline were larger in the SITA group than in the CONT group. At 24 months, first-phase insulin secretion was improved in the SITA group by hyperglycemia clamp, which was higher than in the CONT group (P < .001), while glucose metabolized (M), insulin sensitivity index, and M over logarithmical insulin ratio in HEC were increased in the SITA group (all P < .01 vs baseline), which were higher than in the CONT group.

Conclusion

Compared with insulin intervention alone, sitagliptin plus insulin treatment appeared to maintain β-cell function and improve insulin sensitivity in LADA to some extent.
Development of a Highly Sensitive ELISA for Measurement of FSH in Serum, Plasma, and Whole Blood in Mice
Authors: Ongaro Luisina , Alonso Carlos Agustin Isidro , Zhou Xiang , Brûlé Emilie , Li Yining , Schang Gauthier , Parlow Albert F , Steyn Frederik , Bernard Daniel J
Published: January 2021

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) regulates gonadal function and fertility. Measurement of FSH in bodily fluids and tissues is possible with radioimmunoassays and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Recently, several novel assays were developed to measure pituitary hormones including growth hormone, prolactin, and luteinizing hormone in mice from small sample volumes. Here, we describe a novel and sensitive ELISA that enables the accurate measurement of FSH in serum, plasma, and whole blood from female and male mice. The assay can also be used to measure FSH in murine pituitary lysates and cell culture media. In summary, the new methodology described here will enable investigators to measure FSH from a variety of biological samples in mice accurately, at low cost, and in their own laboratories.
Exercise as Medicine During the Course of Hip Osteoarthritis
Authors: Mechlenburg Inger , Reimer Lisa Cecilie Urup , Kjeldsen Troels , Frydendal Thomas , Dalgas Ulrik
Published: January 2021

Exercise is now considered medicine in numerous chronic conditions and is essentially without side effects. We hypothesize that exercise is primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention at different stages of hip osteoarthritis (preclinical, mild-moderate, and severe hip osteoarthritis) and after total hip arthroplasty.
Dynamic association of human Ebp1 with the ribosome
Authors: Bhaskar Varun , Desogus Jessica , Graff-Meyer Alexandra , Schenk Andreas D. , Cavadini Simone , Chao Jeffrey A.
Published: January 2021

Ribosomes are the macromolecular machines at the heart of protein synthesis; however, their function can be modulated by a variety of additional protein factors that directly interact with them. Here, we report the cryo-EM structure of human Ebp1 (p48 isoform) bound to the human 80S ribosome at 3.3 Å resolution. Ebp1 binds in the vicinity of the peptide exit tunnel on the 80S ribosome, and this binding is enhanced upon puromycin-mediated translational inhibition. The association of Ebp1 with the 80S ribosome centers around its interaction with ribosomal proteins eL19 and uL23 and the 28S rRNA. Further analysis of the Ebp1-ribosome complex suggests that Ebp1 can rotate around its insert domain, which may enable it to assume a wide range of conformations while maintaining its interaction with the ribosome. Structurally, Ebp1 shares homology with the methionine aminopeptidase 2 family of enzymes; therefore, this inherent flexibility may also be conserved.
Description and comparison of physical activity from self-reports and accelerometry among primary school children in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania: a pilot study
Authors: Mosha Mary Vincent , Kasagama Elizabeth , Ayieko Philip , Todd Jim , Msuya Sia E. , Grosskurth Heiner , Filteau Suzanne
Published: January 2021

Background: Self-reports are commonly used to assess physical activity in children. Existing self-reports for physical activity have not been validated for use among primary school children in, Tanzania. In order to understand if primary school children can accurately report their physical activity, we examined the validity of self-reported physical activity against accelerometer measured physical activity.

Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July, 2018. Four primary schools were conveniently selected in Moshi municipal and Moshi rural districts in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania and from these 51 children aged 9 – 11 years were randomly selected. Self-reported questionnaire was used to collect physical activity related variables. In addition, children wore accelerometers for seven consecutive days to capture physical activity movements. Spearman’s rank test and Bland Altman plots were used for assessing validity and agreement between self-reports and accelerometer moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA).

Results: The mean age of the study participants was 10 (SD=0.8) years and 32 (63%) were girls. A positive significant correlation was found between self-reports and accelerometer MVPA (rho=0.36, p=0.009). Accelerometer had higher mean MVPA 408 (SD = 66) compared to self-reports 261 (SD = 179). Children who reported walking to school had higher MVPA for both accelerometer and self- reports compared to children who use other means of transport to school, e.g. school buses (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: This study found a positive significant correlation between self-reports and accelerometers. Self-reports are prone to errors due to recall bias, and this interferes their validity. More research is needed to develop better self-reported measures with specific activities which can easily be recalled by children. Also, researchers have to be aware of self-reports validity limitation.
Case Report: Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) deactivation in palliative care - a case involving best interest decisions for someone lacking capacity at the end of life
Authors: Tan Chevonne , Hanchanale Sarika , Sugrue Emma , Nwosu Amara Callistus
Published: January 2021

The use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD) has increased due to benefits of preventing death from cardiac arrhythmia. However, the increasing use of ICDs has created new challenges for how to proactively manage deactivation of these devices in people who are dying, especially for those who lack capacity to make decisions about their care. The aim of this case report is to discuss the challenges of planning for deactivation of an ICD for a patient who lacked capacity at the end of life.

We describe the challenges of managing ICD deactivation in a dying patient with fluctuating capacity who had previously expressed a wish for the ICD to remain active. Although it is preferable to use advance care planning (ACP), to provide care in-line with patient-identified care preferences, we demonstrate how a best interest process can be used to make decisions about ICD deactivation at the end of life.
RhD blood type significantly influences susceptibility to contract COVID-19 among a study population in Iraq
Authors: Majeed Khalid R , Al-Fahad Dhurgham , Jalood Hayder Hussein , Hantosh Haider A , Ali Mrtatha K , Sakthivel Sumiktsal , Williams Harry F , Gibbins Jonathan M , Patel Ketan , Baksh M. Fazil , Vaiyapuri Sakthivel
Published: January 2021

The ABO blood type has been reported to be associated with several diseases such as hepatitis and malaria. Recently, some studies have reported that people with O blood type are protected against COVID-19, while people with A blood type are more susceptible to contract this disease. Here, we analysed data from 5668 COVID-19 patients along with the same number of control samples in a study population in Iraq. Our analysis confirms that people with O blood type are protected partially against COVID-19. Notably, we demonstrate that people with RhD- are more susceptible to contract COVID-19 than people with RhD+ blood type. The blood types are associated with some clinical symptoms such as headache and asthenia of COVID-19, but there is no association with other symptoms. There is no association between blood types and deaths among COVID-19 patients. This study suggests that in addition to ABO, RhD blood type influences the susceptibility to contract COVID-19. Overall, we conclude that susceptibility/protection against COVID-19 may not be determined based only on blood types among the global population as this might vary based on a number of other factors such as ethnicity, geographical locations, occupation and the level of exposure to infected people.
Comparison of different machine learning methods and dimensionality reduction for classification astrocytoma and glioblastoma tissues by mass spectra
Authors: Zhvansky Evgeny S. , Sorokin Anatoly A. , Zavorotnyuk Denis S. , Shurkhay Vsevolod A. , Eliferov Vasiliy A. , Bormotov Denis S. , Ivanov Daniil G. , Potapov Alexander A.
Published: January 2021

Background: Recently developed methods of ambient ionization allow rapid obtaining of large mass spectrometric datasets, which have a great application in biological and medical analysis. One of the areas that could employ such analysis is neurosurgery. The fast in situ identification of dissected tissues could assist the neurosurgery procedure. The additional information about tumor could help the tumor border monitoring. In this paper, tumor tissues of astrocytoma and glioblastoma are compared, as their identifications during surgery could influence the extent of resection and, hence, the median and overall survival.

Methods: Mass spectrometric profiles of brain tumor tissues contain molecular information, which is rather hard to interpret in terms of identifications of individual molecules. The machine learning algorithms are employed for the fast automated mass spectra classification. Different algorithms of dimensionality reduction are considered to process the mass spectra before the classification task, as the initial dimensionality of mass spectra is too high compared with the number of mass spectra.

Results: Different classifiers are compared for both just preprocessed data and after dimensionality reduction. The Non-Negative Matrix Factorization appears to be the most effective dimensionality reduction algorithm. The random forest algorithm demonstrated the most robust appearance on the tested data. Also, the comparison of the accuracy of the trained classifier on the mass spectra of tissues measured with different instruments and different resolution is provided in the paper.

Conclusions: Machine learning classifiers overfit the raw mass spectrometric data. The dimensionality reduction allows the classification of both train and test data with 88% accuracy. Positive mode data provides better accuracy. A combination of principal component analysis and AdaBoost algorithms appears to be most robust to changing the instrument and conditions.
Before the whistle blows: developing new paradigms in tuberculosis screening to maximise benefit and minimise harm
Authors: MacPherson Peter , Williams Caroline M. , Burke Rachael M. , Barer Michael R. , Esmail Hanif
Published: January 2021

We summarise recent emerging evidence around tuberculosis (TB) transmission and its role in tuberculosis epidemiology, and in novel TB screening and diagnostic tests that will likely become available in low-resource settings in the near future. Little consideration has been paid to how these novel new tests will be implemented, nor what the consequences for individuals, communities and health systems will be. In particular, because of low specificity and consequent false-positive diagnoses, and the low percentage of people who “screen positive” that will go onto develop active pulmonary disease, there is significant potential for inappropriate initiation of TB treatment, as well as stigmatisation, loss of livelihoods and in some setting institutionalisation, with uncertain benefit for individual health or community transmission.

We use analogy to prompt consideration of how and where new TB screening tests could be implemented in TB screening programmes in low-resource settings. Acceptance and confidence in TB screening programmes depends on well-functioning public health programmes that use screening algorithms that minimise harms and balance population benefits with autonomy and respect for individuals. Before new TB screening tests and algorithms are introduced, more evidence for their effectiveness, costs, benefits and harms under real-world conditions are required.
Refined forms of Oppenheim and Cusa-Huygens type inequalities
Authors: Bagul Yogesh J. , Chesneau Christophe
Published: January 2021

We rene Oppenheim's inequality as well as generalized Cusa-Huygens type inequalities established recently by some researchers. One of the results where the bounds of sin x / x are tractable will be used to obtain a sharp version of Yang's inequality.
On sound ranging in proper metric spaces
Authors: Goncharov Sergij V.
Published: January 2021

We consider the sound ranging, or source localization, problem -- find the source-point from the moments when the wave-sphere of linearly, with time, increasing radius reaches the sensor-points -- in proper metric spaces (any closed ball is compact) and, in particular, in the finite-dimensional normed spaces. We approximate the solution to arbitrary precision by the iterative process with the stopping criterion. Implementation of the proposed method in Julia language is included.
Rosyjska elita: historia i współczesność
Authors: Koczetkow Aleksandr
Published: January 2021

The Russian elite: history and the present day

In the article author analyzes the process of formation of the Russian elite during the main stages of historical development of Russia, especially the mechanisms and methods of recruitment. Special attention is paid to the formation of post‑Soviet elites, the comparative analysis of peculiarities of formation of the Soviet and modern Russian elite.
Do Fit Opinions Matter? The Impact of Fit Context on Online Product Returns
Authors: Wang Yang , Ramachandran Vandana , Liu Sheng Olivia R.
Published: January 2021

Practice- and Policy-Oriented Abstract
Optimal Contract for Machine Repair and Maintenance
Authors: Tian Feng , Sun Peng , Duenyas Izak
Published: January 2021

Maintenance outsourcing is quite common in industries that rely on complex and critical equipment. Instead of investing in the maintenance facilities, firms outsource maintenance activities to specialized companies. However, it may be hard for firms (i.e., principal) to observe whether maintenance companies (i.e., agent) put sufficient resources into providing the best service, which gives rise to agency issues. In a dynamic environment in which an agent is responsible for both maintenance and repair of a critical machine, how the principal uses payments and termination to tackle agency issues is a challenging problem. In “Optimal Contract for Machine Repair and Maintenance,” F. Tian, P. Sun, and I. Duenyas provide theoretical guidance on designing the optimal contract to induce efforts from an agent to efficiently operate a machine. Although they consider the very general contract forms, the optimal contracts demonstrate simple and intuitive structures, making them easy to describe and implement in practice.
Dental Intra-oral Radiography: The Tricky Bits Exposed
Authors: Anderson Helen
Published: January 2021

Dental radiography is usually straightforward; however, a few patients do offer a greater challenge to the dentist aiming to achieve diagnostic images. Ironically, it is frequently these tricky patients where a good quality radiograph will be of greatest use when treatment planning. This article has been written primarily to provide some tips aimed at increasing the likelihood of achieving a diagnostic image for a patient who finds the procedure difficult and includes some techniques that can be applied to all patients having a dental radiograph taken.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Achieving good quality radiographs is essential to aid in both diagnosis and treatment planning.
The Impact of Meningococcal Septicaemia on the Developing Dentition
Authors: Kassam Shaira , Forbes-Haley Claire
Published: January 2021

Meningococcal septicaemia is an acute bacterial infection with high morbidity and mortality. The infection can cause multiple systemic manifestations including disseminated intravascular coagulation, haemorrhage, infarction and necrosis of internal organs and bone abnormalities. Children with meningococcal septicaemia present most frequently between the ages of 3 months and 5 years; a crucial period for the developing dentition. Disturbances to developing dentition are frequent sequelae of this infection and include hypoplasia and hypo/hypermineralization, failed or delayed eruption, root and crown malformation. This is thought to be related to subclinical premaxillary osteomyelitis secondary to septicaemia. This case series describes three patients with rare but similar patterns of dental development, notably in the anterior maxillary region, following meningococcal septicaemia in early childhood. The patient journey through multidisciplinary assessment and management is explored, from initial diagnosis to definitive oral rehabilitation. This article underscores the importance of effective communication and care pathways between the dental team and wider medical profession.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: To raise awareness of the impact of early childhood meningococcal septicaemia on the developing dentition and the potential need for referral to secondary dental care.
Dental Management of a Patient with a Left Temporal Brain Abscess: A Case Report
Authors: Hasan Aliya , Tisdall Martin , Harley Kathryn
Published: January 2021

Cerebral abscesses of odontogenic origin are uncommon. Cerebral abscesses are often caused by cardiac and pulmonary disease or infections such as skin or abdominal infections. However, there have been some reported incidences of cerebral abscesses caused by odontogenic infection. This paper aims to discuss a case report whereby an odontogenic infection was the most probable cause of a cerebral abscess in a paediatric patient.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: To discuss the importance of oral disease as a potential causative factor for cerebral infection.