bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental disorders in preadolescent children at familial high‐risk of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder – a four‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Gregersen Maja , Søndergaard Anne , Brandt Julie Marie , Ellersgaard Ditte , Rohd Sinnika Birkehøj , Hjorthøj Carsten , Ohland Jessica , Krantz Mette Falkenberg , Wilms Martin , Andreassen Anna Krogh , Knudsen Christina Bruun , Veddum Lotte , Greve Aja , Bliksted Vibeke , Mors Ole , Clemmensen Lars , Møllegaard Jepsen Jens Richardt , Nordentoft Merete , Hemager Nicoline , Thorup Anne Amalie Elgaard
Published: December 2021

Background

Children at familial high‐risk of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder have an elevated prevalence of mental disorders but studies of children within a narrow age range are lacking and there are few conjoint studies of these two groups. Knowledge on their mental health is important for prevention and early intervention.

Methods

The authors examined mental disorders and global functioning in children at familial high‐risk of schizophrenia (FHR‐SZ) and bipolar disorder (FHR‐BP) compared with population‐based controls. In a longitudinal cohort study, 450 children (FHR‐SZ, n = 171; FHR‐BP, n = 104; controls, n = 175), were assessed for Axis I disorders at baseline and four‐year follow‐up (mean age 11.9, SD 0.2) with the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School‐Age Children and for global functioning with Children’s Global Assessment Scale.

Results

Cumulative incidence of Any Axis I disorder was elevated by age 11 in children at FHR‐SZ (54.4%, OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.9–4.7, p < .001) and children at FHR‐BP (52.9%, OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.7–4.7, p < .001) compared with controls (28.6%). Children at FHR‐SZ and FHR‐BP had higher rates of affective disorders (OR 4.4, 95% CI 1.4–13.5, p = .009; OR 5.1, 95% CI 1.6–16.4, p = .007), anxiety disorders (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1–4.0, p = .02; OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.5–6.1, p = .002), and stress and adjustment disorders (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4–7.5, p = .006; OR 5.3, 95% CI 2.2–12.4, p < .001). Disruptive behavior disorders (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.0–7.3, p = .04) and ADHD (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.6–5.3, p < .001) were elevated in children at FHR‐SZ. Both FHR groups had lower global functioning than controls. Cumulative incidence of disorders increased equally across the three groups from early childhood to preadolescence and level of functioning did not change differentially.

Conclusions

Children at FHR‐SZ and FHR‐BP have an elevated prevalence of mental disorders and poorer functioning than controls. Vulnerability in children at FHR manifests early and remains stable throughout childhood. Early attention toward their mental health and identification of those in need of intervention is warranted.
Studies on the cyst stage of Naegleria fowleri in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Evdokiou Anna , Marciano‐Cabral Francine , Jamerson Melissa
Published: December 2021

Naegleria fowleri is a pathogenic, free‐living amoeba that causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a highly fatal disease of the central nervous system. N. fowleri demonstrates three forms: the trophozoite, flagellate, and cyst. Most studies have focused on the trophozoite limiting information on the cyst. The present study examined the ability of cysts to attach to, excyst into the trophozoite form, and destroy cell cultures. Additionally, the study assessed the ability of cysts to cause PAM in a murine model. The results demonstrated that exposure to cysts and transformation into trophozoites resulted in destruction of cell cultures. Specifically, the mixed glial cells exhibited an increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release compared with cells without cyst exposure. On day eight postexposure, there was a nearly fourfold increase in LDH. The cysts of N. fowleri were shown not to be infective in vivo in a murine model. The mediation of the encystment process by the intracellular concentration of cAMP was also investigated. Trophozoites were treated with dipyridamole, an inhibitor of cAMP‐specific phosphodiesterases. Dipyridamole increased the rate of encystment by nearly twofold and increased the intracellular concentration of cAMP in cysts by nearly sixfold throughout this period suggesting that cAMP is a mediator of encystment for N. fowleri.
Efficacy of 2940 nm Multifractional Er: YAG Lasers in Self‐inflicted Razor Blade Incision Scars
Authors: Cenk Hulya , Sarac Gulbahar
Published: December 2021

Background

Deliberate self‐harm (DSH) can be defined as self‐inflicted injury without an intention to suicide, and it may result in scar formation with a particular shape.

Aims

There is no treatment algorithm for DSH scars, nor is there a gold standard for the treatment of hypertrophic scars. Therefore, we aimed to share our experience with Er: YAG laser treatment of self‐inflicted razor blade incision scars.

Patients/Methods

The study involved 18 patients with DSH scars treated with fractional ablative Er: YAG laser (MCL 31 Asclepion laser Technologies) between 2017 and 2020, with the parameters of 40 J/cm2, 300 µs, and 4 Hz. The sessions were repeated by increasing 10 joules in every session with 4‐week intervals until reaching a maximum of 80 joules.

The patients were evaluated retrospectively by two different dermatologists in terms of scar improvement over digital photographs taken before and 4 weeks after the treatment. Evaluations have been made based on a 4‐point score (0:no change, 1:1%–25% mild, 2:26%–50% moderate, 3:51%–75% well, and 4:76%–100% excellent improvement).

Results

After the third session, 90.9% of the patients showed a moderate improvement. After the fourth session, only 27.2% of the patients had a good, and 63.2% of the patients had a moderate improvement rate.

Conclusions

Er: YAG laser is a safe and effective treatment method for the hypertrophic scars induced by razor blades. Also, we believe that combined treatments with other treatment modalities will provide better results in DSH scars.
Association of androgenetic alopecia and severity of coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Ghafoor Rabia , Ali Syeda Mahanum , Patil Anant , Goldust Mohamad
Published: December 2021

Objective

To establish the association of androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19).

Design

Observational study.

Methodology

A total of 300 hospitalized patients of COVID‐19 were included. Scoring of AGA was done, and severity of COVID‐19 was measured as better and worse hospital outcomes. Correlation between severity of AGA and severity of COVID‐19 was noted.

Results

Out of 300 patients, 220 (73.33%) were male and 80 (26.67%) were female. In males, mild‐to‐moderate Hamilton‐Norwood scale (HNS<3) and severe alopecia (HNS3‐7) were noted among 43(20%) and 177(80.55%) patients, respectively. In females, 43(54%) had no AGA while 37(46%) had AGA. In 37 females with AGA, mild‐to‐moderate (Ludwig scale <2) and severe alopecia (Ludwig scale 2–3) were seen in 9(24.32%) and 28(75.68%) patients, respectively. We report a significant increase in frequency (95%) and severity of AGA and worse outcomes in males (p‐value 0.000, chi‐square: 18.90) compared with females (46%) (p‐value 0.273, chi‐square: 7.544), with notable adverse COVID‐19 disease outcomes in the younger age group of men and also in few women of younger age group suffering from AGA without any comorbidities.

Conclusion

Our study shows a significant increase in frequency and severity of AGA and worse outcomes in men compared with women. There was a significant association between AGA severity and hospital disease outcome in men compared with women. Younger age group patients with severe AGA particularly men also faced adverse outcomes while having no known comorbidities, supporting the hypothesis that anti‐androgen drugs might be valuable in patients of COVID‐19.
Movement patterns within an urban population of fire salamanders highlight the importance of conserving small habitat patches
Authors: Kiss I. , Vörös J. , Hamer A.J.
Published: December 2021

Movement is an ecological process that affects individual fitness and population dynamics of species. Understanding movement patterns is crucial for the effective conservation of amphibian populations isolated by urban development. Here, we conducted a capture–recapture study over 6 years in a population of the fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) inhabiting a 7.3‐ha patch of forest and disturbed land‐use types in an urbanised catchment north‐west of Budapest, Hungary. We investigated relationships between movement distances and environmental, spatial and demographic parameters in order to understand how this species is able to persist in a relatively small and isolated habitat patch. We found that most movement was aggregated around a permanent stream and that movement distances were generally ≤200 m, with maximum distances of 925 and 707 m for males and females, respectively. Movement patterns within the population were best modelled using a negative exponential function characterised by infrequent long‐distance movement. Males had substantially larger home range sizes than females and were predicted to have larger movement distances. Mean movement distances were predicted to be larger in disturbed areas in the upper stream catchment which included residential areas, compared with smaller movements in more natural forest near the stream. There was a positive relationship between mean movement distance and body condition. Our results suggest that this local population persists in a relatively small habitat patch because it provides a stable breeding site and suitable foraging and shelter microhabitats. Conservation of the local population requires protection of the structure, connectivity and quality of forest and stream habitats, and preventing urban development in the surrounding catchment.
Case of cortical superficial siderosis presenting with corticobasal syndrome
Authors: Miyazawa Naotaka , Hasegawa Itsuki , Mino Toshikazu , Takeda Akitoshi , Hatsuta Hiroyuki , Yoshizaki Takahito , Takao Masaki , Itoh Yoshiaki
Published: December 2021

A 70‐year‐old man presented with slow gait and a clumsy hand on the right side. Neurological examination revealed dystonia and ideomotor apraxia in the right hand. A mask‐like face, rigidity in the right arm, and shuffling gait were noticed. Treatment with L‐dopa had no effect. He was clinically diagnosed with corticobasal syndrome (CBS). Susceptibility‐weighted images of brain magnetic resonance imaging showed low‐intensity areas on the surface of the cerebral cortex, especially on the left parietal lobe, brain stem, and cerebellum, indicating superficial siderosis (SS). Neuropathological examination revealed diffuse hemosiderin deposition over the surface of the brain, including the left parietal lobe. Cerebellar hemorrhage with rupture to the subarachnoid space was noticed. Cortical SS should, therefore, be included in the differential diagnosis of CBS.
De novo chromosome‐level genome of a semi‐dwarf cultivar of Prunus persica identifies the aquaporin PpTIP2 as responsible for temperature‐sensitive semi‐dwarf trait and PpB3‐1 for flower type and size
Authors: Lian Xiaodong , Zhang Haipeng , Jiang Chao , Gao Fan , Yan Liu , Zheng Xianbo , Cheng Jun , Wang Wei , Wang Xiaobei , Ye Xia , Li Jidong , Zhang Langlang , Li Zhiqian , Tan Bin , Feng Jiancan
Published: December 2021

Peach (Prunus persica) is one of the most important fruit crops globally, but its cultivation can be hindered by large tree size. ‘Zhongyoutao 14’ (CN14) is a temperature‐sensitive semi‐dwarf (TSSD) cultivar which might be useful as breeding stock. The genome of CN14 was sequenced and assembled de novo using single‐molecule real‐time sequencing and chromosome conformation capture assembly. A high‐quality genome was assembled and annotated, with 228.82 Mb mapped to eight chromosomes. Eighty‐six re‐sequenced F1 individuals and 334 previously re‐sequenced accessions were used to identify candidate genes controlling TSSD and flower type and size. An aquaporin tonoplast intrinsic protein (PpTIP2) was a strong candidate gene for control of TSSD. Sequence variations in the upstream regulatory region of PpTIP2 correlated with different transcriptional activity at different temperatures. PpB3‐1, a candidate gene for flower type (SH) and flower size, contributed to petal development and promoted petal enlargement. The locus of another 12 agronomic traits was identified through genome‐wide association study. Most of these loci exhibited consistent and precise association signals, except for flesh texture and flesh adhesion. A 6015‐bp insertion in exon 3 and a 26‐bp insertion upstream of PpMYB25 were associated with fruit hairless. Along with a 70.5‐Kb gap at the F‐M locus in CN14, another two new alleles were identified in peach accessions. Our findings will not only promote genomic research and agronomic breeding in peach but also provide a foundation for the peach pan‐genome.
Transition in cardiology 2: Maternal and fetal congenital heart disease
Authors: Nagata Hazumu , Yamamura Kenichiro , Matsuoka Ryohei , Kato Kiyoko , Ohga Shouichi
Published: December 2021

The number of women with congenital heart disease (CHD) reaching reproductive age has been increasing. Many women with CHDs are desirous of pregnancy, but they face issues regarding preconception, antepartum, and postpartum management. On the other hand, the fetal diagnosis of CHD has improved with advances in the technique and equipment for fetal echocardiography. Recently, experiences with fetal intervention have been reported in patients with severe CHD, such as critical aortic stenosis. Nevertheless, some types of CHD are challenge to diagnose prenatally, resulting in adverse outcomes. Medical care is part of the transitional care for women and fetuses with CHD during the perinatal period. Pre‐conceptional and prenatal counseling play an important role in transitional care. Sex and reproductive education need to be performed as early as possible. We herein review the current status, important issues to be resolved, and the future of maternal and fetal CHD to relevant caregivers.
What do we know about opportunities and challenges for localities from Cannabis legalization?
Authors: Kavousi Parisa , Giamo Taylor , Arnold Gwen , Alliende Mateo , Huynh Elisabeth , Lea Jaclyn , Lucine Rachel , Tillett Miller Alexandria , Webre Alana , Yee Aneka , Champagne‐Zamora Adrianna , Taylor Keith
Published: December 2021

This review article assays the scholarly and popular press literature on the opportunities and challenges the growing legalized cannabis industry offers U.S. local governments and communities. Localities are an important focus because in many states with legalized cannabis, local jurisdictions have authority to prevent or condition its cultivation, sale, and use. Opportunities potentially flowing to localities from legalization include increased tax revenues and land values, business expansion, and increased employment; public health and safety benefits; and the potential for legalization to advance social and racial inclusion. Challenges include the possibility that economic benefits will be more limited than anticipated; complex regulatory environments facing local governments and cannabis businesses, possible increases in pollution, blight, and public health and safety concerns; and less advancement of social and racial equity than hoped by advocates. We offer recommendations for scholars investigating cannabis governance concerns and practitioners directly grappling with them.
A common celiacomesenteric trunk is a rare anatomic variant in dogs
Authors: Smith Kaitlin , Hecht Silke , Lux Cassie , Sun Xiaocun
Published: December 2021

With the increasing use of CT and MRI for diagnostic imaging and planning of interventional procedures, it is important for veterinary radiologists to be familiar with variations in normal vascular anatomy and not mistake them for pathology. The arterial blood supply to the cranial abdominal viscera is provided by the celiac and the cranial mesenteric arteries. A common celiacomesenteric trunk (CMT) has been reported as a rare anatomical variant in dogs. The goals of this retrospective, observational, cross‐sectional prevalence study were to determine the prevalence of a CMT in dogs with non‐abdominal disease and compare it to the prevalence in dogs with portosystemic shunts (PSS). Magnetic resonance imaging studies of the thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spine in dogs that included the origin of the celiac and cranial mesenteric arteries and dual‐phase CT angiography studies of the abdomen in dogs with portosystemic shunts were retrospectively reviewed by a veterinary student and a board‐certified veterinary radiologist. The prevalence of a CMT was determined as the proportion of dogs diagnosed with this vascular anomaly in the MRI and CT group, respectively. Fisher's exact test was used to determine any association of a CMT with the concurrent presence of a PSS, sex, and breed size. A CMT was identified in seven of 606 (1.2%) MRI studies and in none of 47 abdominal CT studies. There was no association between the presence of a CMT and PSS (P = 1.000), sex (P = .4694), or breed size (P = 1.000). A CMT is a rare incidental finding in dogs.
Lithium-Ion Power Battery Grouping: A Multisource Data Fusion-Based Clustering Approach and Distributed Deployment
Authors: Wang Yudong , Bai Xiwei , Liu Chengbao , Tan Jie
Published: December 2021

Consistence of lithium-ion power battery significantly affects the life and safety of battery modules and packs. To improve the consistence, battery grouping is employed, assembling batteries with similar electrochemical characteristics to make up modules and packs. Therefore, grouping process boils down to unsupervised clustering problem. Current used grouping approaches include two aspects, static characteristics based and dynamic based. However, there are three problems. First, the common problem is under utilization of multi-source data. Second, for the static characteristics based, there is grouping failure over time. Third, for the dynamic characteristics based, there is high computational complexity. To solve these problems, we propose a distributed multisource data fusion based battery grouping approach. The proposed approach designs an effective network structure for multisource data fusing and feature extracting from both static and dynamic multisource data. We apply our approach on real battery modules and record state of health (SOH) during charging-discharging cycles. Experiments indicate that the proposed approach can increase SOH of modules by 3.89% and reduce the inconsistence by 68.4%. Meanwhile, with the distributed deployment the time cost is reduced by 87.9% than the centralized scheme.
Feasibility Study of Long-Term Dual Tank Photovoltaic/Thermal Indirect Parallel Solar-Assisted Heat Pump Systems
Authors: Taoufik Brahim , Abdelmajid Jemni
Published: December 2021

A novel dual tank photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) indirect parallel solar-assisted heat pump system was investigated in this paper, which filled a gap in the literature. Furthermore, a long-term performance study analysis was performed under Tunisian climate to offset domestic electric and hot water loads. Optimal operations of such a system are achieved based on a simplified mathematical model. Results showed that the average thermal and electric energy efficiency is about 39.65% and 11.38%, respectively. Results revealed that the increase in solar radiation results in an improvement of the system's thermal-based coefficient of performance efficiency coefficient reaching 4.49 at 893 W/m2. PV/T average electrical energy output is found to 0.68 kW h/m2/day with an annual average of 177.42 kW h/m2, which leads to an annual electricity surplus of about 5.83%. A reversible heat pump operation seemed more advantageous especially in the summer months, reducing yearly electric demand by about 84.57%. An economic analysis is undertaken and a payback period of about 12.7 years is found. The current study provided a framework for assessing such a system's behavior and providing useful flexibility to achieve the best possible system performance.
Moving Through COVID-19: Perspectives of Older Adults in the Getting Older Adults Outdoors Study
Authors: Kokorelias Kristina Marie , Ripat Jacquie , Jones C. Allyson , Mayo Nancy E. , Salbach Nancy M. , Barclay Ruth
Published: December 2021

Safety guidelines resulting from the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic may reduce physical activity participation of older adults, particularly prefrail and frail individuals. The objective was to explore older adults’ experiences with physical activity during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, interviews were conducted with 16 older adults. Data were analyzed thematically. Two themes emerged: (a) coming to a standstill and (b) small steps. Participants described that imposed provincial and federal recommendations caused them to reduce their physical activity with negative consequences. As time progressed, participants used emerging public health knowledge about coronavirus disease 2019 to safely increase physical activity. Many participants developed strategies to remain active during the pandemic (e.g., wearing a pedometer, walking outdoors at particular times of day). Findings from this study can better inform the development of programs, clinical practice, and policy for physical activity promotion in older adults during periods of physical distancing and isolation.
Topology of the redox network during induction of photosynthesis as revealed by time-resolved proteomics in tobacco
Authors: Zimmer David , Swart Corné , Graf Alexander , Arrivault Stéphanie , Tillich Michael , Proost Sebastian , Nikoloski Zoran , Stitt Mark , Bock Ralph , Mühlhaus Timo , Boulouis Alix
Published: December 2021

Plants regulate the distribution of electrons to activate chloroplast metabolism at the onset of light.
Molecular self-avoidance in synaptic neurexin complexes
Authors: Wang Cosmos Yuqi , Trotter Justin H. , Liakath-Ali Kif , Lee Sung-Jin , Liu Xinran , Südhof Thomas C.
Published: December 2021

Cbln1 binding to neurexins blocks inactive cis interactions and enables functional trans complexes of neurexins at synapses.
LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dating and geochemical characterization of oil inclusion-bearing calcite cements: Constraints on primary oil migration in lacustrine mudstone source rocks
Authors: Su Ao , Chen Honghan , Feng Yue-xing , Zhao Jian-xin
Published: December 2021

To date, few isotope age constraints on primary oil migration have been reported. Here we present U-Pb dating and characterization of two fracture-filling, oil inclusion-bearing calcite veins hosted in the Paleocene siliciclastic mudstone source rocks in Subei Basin, China. Deposition age of the mudstone formation was estimated to be ca. 60.2–58.0 Ma. The first vein consists of two major phases: a microcrystalline-granular (MG) calcite phase, and a blocky calcite phase, each showing distinctive petrographic features, rare earth element patterns, and carbon and oxygen isotope compositions. The early MG phase resulted from local mobilization of host carbonates, likely associated with disequilibrium compaction over-pressuring or tectonic extension, whereas the late-filling blocky calcite phase was derived from overpressured oil-bearing fluids with enhanced fluid-rock interactions. Vein texture and fluorescence characteristics reveal at least two oil expulsion events, the former represented by multiple bitumen veinlets postdating the MG calcite generation, and the latter marked by blue-fluorescing primary oil inclusions synchronous with the blocky calcite cementation. The MG calcite yields a laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry U-Pb age of 55.6 ± 1.4 Ma, constraining the earliest timing of the early oil migration event. The blocky calcite gives a younger U-Pb age of 47.8 ± 2.3 Ma, analytically indistinguishable from the U-Pb age of 46.5 ± 1.7 Ma yielded by the second calcite vein. These two ages define the time of the late oil migration event, agreeing well with the age estimate of 49.7–45.2 Ma inferred from fluid-inclusion homogenization temperature and published burial models. Thermodynamic modeling shows that the oil inclusions were trapped at ~27.0–40.9 MPa, exceeding corresponding hydrostatic pressures (23.1–26.7 MPa), confirming mild-moderate overpressure created by oil generation-expulsion. This integrated study combining carbonate U-Pb dating and fluid-inclusion characterization provides a new approach for reconstructing pressure-temperature-composition-time points in petroleum systems.
Supplemental Material: Geologic map of central Panamint Range, California, USA
Authors: Andrew J.E.
Published: December 2021

Digital map data files in ArcGIS shapefile format for data collection points, geologic contacts, and geologic unit polygons.
Genetic Variability and the Potential Range of Darevskia rostombekowi in Transcaucasia
Authors: Osipov F. A. , Vergun A. A. , Arakelyan M. S. , Petrosyan R. K. , Dergunova N. N. , Neymark L. A. , Petrosyan V. G.
Published: December 2021

Abstract—

The results of the analysis of the genetic variability of parthenogenetic Darevskia rostombekowi (Darevsky, 1957) species using four microsatellite-containing loci are presented. Based on 118 records with geographical coordinates of the presence of this species in Transcaucasia, the maps of potential range were created. The analysis of the genetic structure of populations demonstrated that despite the established multiclonality (seven clonal lines in four populations), D. rostombekowi was formed as a result of a single act of hybridization between closely related bisexual species. The predicted distribution of D. rostombekowi using the modelling of potential range revealed new suitable habitats, where the presence of the species has not been reported previously. The results of this study and the absence of multiple acts of hybridization during the formation of these clones may indicate a regression of population size of the species. Consequently, the estimation of the conservation status of this parthenogenetic species seems to be justified.
Driving digital health transformation in hospitals: a formative qualitative evaluation of the English Global Digital Exemplar programme
Authors: Krasuska Marta , Williams Robin , Sheikh Aziz , Franklin Bryony , Hinder Susan , TheNguyen Hung , Lane Wendy , Mozaffar Hajar , Mason Kathy , Eason Sally , Potts Henry , Cresswell Kathrin
Published: December 2021

Background

There is currently a strong drive internationally towards creating digitally advanced healthcare systems through coordinated efforts at a national level. The English Global Digital Exemplar (GDE) programme is a large-scale national health information technology change programme aiming to promote digitally-enabled transformation in secondary healthcare provider organisations by supporting relatively digitally mature provider organisations to become international centres of excellence.

Aim

To qualitatively evaluate the impact of the GDE programme in promoting digital transformation in provider organisations that took part in the programme.

Methods

We conducted a series of in-depth case studies in 12 purposively selected provider organisations and a further 24 wider case studies of the remaining organisations participating in the GDE programme. Data collected included 628 interviews, non-participant observations of 190 meetings and workshops and analysis of 9 documents. We used thematic analysis aided by NVivo software and drew on sociotechnical theory to analyse the data.

Results

We found the GDE programme accelerated digital transformation within participating provider organisations. This acceleration was triggered by: (1) dedicated funding and the associated requirement for matched internal funding, which in turn helped to prioritise digital transformation locally; (2) governance requirements put in place by the programme that helped strengthen existing local governance and project management structures and supported the emergence of a cadre of clinical health informatics leaders locally; and (3) reputational benefits associated with being recognised as a centre of digital excellence, which facilitated organisational buy-in for digital transformation and increased negotiating power with vendors.

Conclusion

The GDE programme has been successful in accelerating digital transformation in participating provider organisations. Large-scale digital transformation programmes in healthcare can stimulate local progress through protected funding, putting in place governance structures and leveraging reputational benefits for participating provider organisations, around a coherent vision of transformation.
Epidemiological methods used in the periodontal health research in military personnel: a systematic review
Authors: Bárcena García Millán , Cobo Plana J M , Rodríguez Cagiao G , Arcos González P I
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Periodontal disease is a prevalent pathology in military personnel worldwide. The objective is to analyse the methodological features of periodontal health research performed in military personnel in their home countries.

Methods

A PRISMA systematic review of literature was carried out in PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science databases on military periodontal health studies. Study design type, language, publication date, year, country, size and sample selection, age, sex, military, diagnostic procedure, examiners, periodontal, gingival and oral hygiene index were extracted.

Results

Eighty-eight out of 5355 studies found were selected, published between 1921 and 2020, with samples ranging from 52 to 16 869 individuals, generally not randomised, and consisting mainly of men with a mean age of 25 years. Predominant studies were cross-sectional descriptive studies, carried out in the Army, on American military personnel, and in the English language. Most of the studies used the WHO periodontal probe handled by two or more examiners. The Löe and Silness gingival index and the Silness and Löe plaque index were the most used indexes to assess gingival condition and oral hygiene, respectively. Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs was the most widely used periodontal index.

Conclusions

Research on periodontal health carried out in military populations from the 1920s to the present has been performed from an almost exclusively descriptive approach. Issues such as the characteristics and representativeness of the samples, the epidemiological design and the different gingival-periodontal indexes used may limit the comparability of the study results.
Patterns of healthcare utilisation in children and young people: a retrospective cohort study using routinely collected healthcare data in Northwest London
Authors: Beaney Thomas , Clarke Jonathan , Woodcock Thomas , McCarthy Rachel , Saravanakumar Kavitha , Barahona Mauricio , Blair Mitch , Hargreaves Dougal S
Published: December 2021

Objectives

With a growing role for health services in managing population health, there is a need for early identification of populations with high need. Segmentation approaches partition the population based on demographics, long-term conditions (LTCs) or healthcare utilisation but have mostly been applied to adults. Our study uses segmentation methods to distinguish patterns of healthcare utilisation in children and young people (CYP) and to explore predictors of segment membership.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Routinely collected primary and secondary healthcare data in Northwest London from the Discover database.

Participants

378 309 CYP aged 0–15 years registered to a general practice in Northwest London with 1 full year of follow-up.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Assignment of each participant to a segment defined by seven healthcare variables representing primary and secondary care attendances, and description of utilisation patterns by segment. Predictors of segment membership described by age, sex, ethnicity, deprivation and LTCs.

Results

Participants were grouped into six segments based on healthcare utilisation. Three segments predominantly used primary care, two moderate utilisation segments differed in use of emergency or elective care, and a high utilisation segment, representing 16 632 (4.4%) children accounted for the highest mean presentations across all service types. The two smallest segments, representing 13.3% of the population, accounted for 62.5% of total costs. Younger age, residence in areas of higher deprivation and the presence of one or more LTCs were associated with membership of higher utilisation segments, but 75.0% of those in the highest utilisation segment had no LTC.

Conclusions

This article identifies six segments of healthcare utilisation in CYP and predictors of segment membership. Demographics and LTCs may not explain utilisation patterns as strongly as in adults, which may limit the use of routine data in predicting utilisation and suggest children have less well-defined trajectories of service use than adults.
Acquired HIV drug resistance among children and adults receiving antiretroviral therapy in Tanzania: a national representative survey protocol
Authors: Rugemalila Joan , Kamori Doreen , Maokola Werner , Mizinduko Mucho , Barabona Godfrey , Masoud Salim , Mlunde Linda B , Mutagonda Ritah Francis , Ruhago George , Mushi Jeremiah , Sambu Veryeh , Ueno Takamasa , Mutayoba Beatrice , Njau Prosper , Nagu Tumaini , Aboud Said , Sunguya Bruno F
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Tanzania is making an enormous effort in scaling-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, people living with HIV (PLHIV) continue to succumb to the challenge of drug resistance. Evidence on drug resistance for a national survey is unavailable in Tanzania. Therefore, we sought to assess viral suppression (vs) rates and magnitude of acquired drug resistance (ADR) among PLHIV.

Methods and analysis

A national survey will be conducted from 26 July to 29 October 2021 in 22 regions, recruiting 2160 participants. These will include adults on ART for 9–15 months and ≥48 months and children on ART for 9–15 months and ≥36 months. A standardised questionnaire will capture participants’ demographic and clinical data. Plasma and dried blood spot will be prepared for viral load testing and drug resistance genotyping. Statistical analyses to determine the burden of ADR, characteristics and factors associated therewith will be done using STATA V.15.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained from the National Health Research Ethics Committee of Tanzania (NIMR/HQ/R.8a/Vol.IX/3432). Appropriate participant informed consent or parental consent and assent will be obtained. Dissemination will include a survey report, conference presentations, policy briefs and peer-reviewed publications.
Killing efficacy of a new hypothermic corneal storage medium against the micro-organisms frequently found in human donor cornea intended for transplantation
Authors: Giurgola Laura , Gatto Claudio , Honisch Claudia , Rossi Orietta , Ragazzi Eugenio , D'Amato Tothova Jana
Published: December 2021

Objective

To study the in vitro killing efficacy of Kerasave (AL.CHI.MI.A Srl), a medium provided with amphotericin B tablet for hypothermic storage of human donor corneas, against relevant contaminants associated with postkeratoplasty infections.

Methods and Analysis

The antimicrobial activity of Kerasave was determined after 0, 3 and 14 days of incubation at 2°C–8°C, inoculating Kerasave and the control medium with 105–106colony forming units (CFU) ofCandida albicans(CA),Fusarium solani(FS),Aspergillus brasiliensis(AB),Staphylococcus aureus(SA),Enterococcus faecalis(EF),Bacillus subtilis spizizenii(BS),Pseudomonas aeruginosa(PA),Enterobacter cloacae(EC) andKlebsiella pneumoniae(KP). Log10reductions at different time intervals were determined by assessing the number of viable CFU using the serial dilution plating technique.

Results

After 3 days, Kerasave induced the highest log10decrease in the concentrations of KP, PA, CA and EC (5.37, 4.15, 2.97 and 2.67, respectively; all p<0.001). The log10decreases of SA and EF were 2.27 and 2.11, respectively (all p<0.001). The lowest log10decrease was observed in BS, AB and FS concentrations (0.25, 0.30 and 0.67, respectively; p<0.001 for BS and AB and p=0.004 for FS). After 14 days, the microbial count of CA, FS, SA, EF, PA and EC further decreased (p=0.006 for FS; p<0.001 for the others).

Conclusion

Kerasave effectively reduced or kept unchanged the microbial concentration of almost all tested strains after 3 days. Thus, this novel medium represents a valuable tool to control the microbial contamination of human donor corneas during hypothermic storage for up to 14 days before transplantation.
Deferasirox Combination with Eltrombopag Shows Anti-Myelodysplastic Syndrome Effects by Enhancing iron Deprivation–Related Apoptosis
Authors: Huang Lei , Tian Mengyue , Liu Zhaoyun , Liu Chunyan , Fu Rong
Published: December 2021

Iron overload (IO) affected the survival of patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Deferasirox (DFX) is widely used in patients with MDS for iron chelation therapy, but is not suitable for MDS patients with severe thrombocytopenia. Eltrombopag (ELT) is a type of thrombopoietin receptor (TPOR) analog used in the treatment of thrombocytopenia. Therefore, we sought to explore the synergistic effects and possible mechanisms of DFX combination with ELT in MDS cells. In our study, the combination of DFX with ELT synergistically inhibited proliferation, induced apoptosis and arrested cell cycle of MDS cells. Through the RNA-sequence and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), iron metabolism–related pathway played important roles in apoptosis of SKM-1 cells treated with DFX plus ELT. Transferrin receptor (TFRC) was significantly highly expressed in combination group than that in single agent groups, without affecting TPOR. Furthermore, the apoptosis of the combination group MDS cells could be partially reversed by ferric ammonium citrate (FAC), accompanied with decreased expression of TFRC. These results suggested that the combination of DFX and ELT synergistically induced apoptosis of MDS cells by enhancing iron deprivation–related pathway.
AAC Awesome special purpose spring wheat
Authors: Randhawa H.S. , Graf R.J.
Published: December 2021

AAC Awesome is a high yielding spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar eligible for the Canada Western Special Purpose (CWSP) wheat class. Based on 29 site-years of testing over 3 years in the General Purpose Wheat Registration trial (2013–2015), AAC Awesome yielded 14% more grain than AC Andrew, and surpassed yields of Sadash, 5702PR, and Pasteur by 12%, 22%, and 9%, respectively. AAC Awesome had similar maturity, was slightly taller, had higher test weight and larger kernels as compared to AC Andrew. AAC Awesome had excellent levels of resistance to the prevalent races of leaf, stem and stripe rust. It expressed an intermediate level of resistance to Fusarium head blight (FHB), common bunt and loose smut. It also expressed tolerance to the orange wheat blossom midge. AAC Awesome is eligible for grades of Canada Western Special Purpose Wheat class.
New solution generating algorithm for isotropic static Einstein-Gauss-Bonnet metrics
Authors: Maharaj Sunil D. , Hansraj Sudan , Sahoo Parbati
Published: December 2021

The static isotropic gravitational field equation, governing the geometry and dynamics of stellar structure, is considered in Einstein–Gauss–Bonnet (EGB) gravity. This is a nonlinear Abelian differential equation which generalizes the simpler general relativistic pressure isotropy condition. A gravitational potential decomposition is postulated in order to generate new exact solutions from known solutions. The conditions for a successful integration are examined. Remarkably we generate a new exact solution to the Abelian equation from the well known Schwarzschild interior seed metric. The metric potentials are given in terms of elementary functions. A physical analysis of the model is performed in five and six spacetime dimensions. It is shown that the six-dimensional case is physically more reasonable and is consistent with the conditions restricting the physics of realistic stars.
Neural software analysis
Authors: Pradel Michael , Chandra Satish
Published: December 2021

Developer tools that use a neural machine learning model to make predictions about previously unseen code.
How reliable is smartphone-based electronic contact tracing for COVID-19?
Authors: Kindt Philipp H. , Chakraborty Trinad , Chakraborty Samarjit
Published: December 2021

A look through the lens of neighbor discovery protocols reveals significant potential to improve electronic contact-tracing accuracy.
Delivering a rapid digital response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lee Gwanhoo , Kim Jaeho
Published: December 2021

Lessons learned from South Korea's contact-tracing system.
Is higher education an engine of opportunity, or a perpetuator of privilege?
Authors: Guzdial Mark
Published: December 2021

The
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Mark Guzdial considers the goals of computer science education and the role(s) of educators within that.
Eyelid gestures for people with motor impairments
Authors: Fan Mingming , Li Zhen , Li Franklin Mingzhe
Published: December 2021

Although eye-based interactions can be beneficial for people with motor impairments, they often rely on clunky or specialized equipment (e.g., stationary eye-trackers) and focus primarily on gaze and blinks. However, two eyelids can open and close in different orders and for different duration to form rich eyelid gestures. We take a first step to design, detect, and evaluate a set of eyelid gestures for people with motor impairments on mobile devices. We present an algorithm to detect nine eyelid gestures on smartphones in real time and evaluate it with 12 able-bodied people and 4 people with severe motor impairments in two studies. The results of the study with people with motor-impairments show that the algorithm can detect the gestures with .76 and .69 overall accuracy in user-dependent and user-independent evaluations. Furthermore, we design and evaluate a gesture mapping scheme for people with motor impairments to navigate mobile applications only using eyelid gestures. Finally, we discuss considerations for designing and using eyelid gestures for people with motor impairments.
Orbit design
Authors: Shasha Dennis
Published: December 2021

When should the satellites fly?
Addressing algorithmic discrimination
Authors: Kim Pauline T.
Published: December 2021

Considering the intersection of technical design and civil rights when building and using classification algorithms.
Modeling the Effect of Low Pt loading Cathode Catalyst Layer in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells: Part I. Model Formulation and Validation
Authors: Sánchez-Ramos Arturo , Gostick Jeff T. , García-Salaberri Pablo A.
Published: December 2021

A model for the cathode catalyst layer (CL) is presented, which is validated with previous experimental data in terms of both performance and oxygen transport resistance. The model includes a 1D macroscopic description of proton, electron and oxygen transport across the CL thickness, which is locally coupled to a 1D microscopic model that describes oxygen transport toward Pt sites. Oxygen transport from the channel to the CL and ionic transport across the membrane are incorporated through integral boundary conditions. The model is complemented with data of effective transport and electrochemical properties extracted from multiple experimental works. The results show that the contribution of the thin ionomer film and Pt/ionomer interface increases with the inverse of the roughness factor. Whereas the contribution of the water film and the water/ionomer interface increases with the ratio between the geometric area and the surface area of active ionomer. Moreover, it is found that CLs diluted with bare carbon provide lower performance than non-diluted samples due to their lower electrochemical surface area and larger local oxygen transport resistance. Optimized design of non-diluted samples with a good distribution of the overall oxygen flux among Pt sites is critical to reduce mass transport losses at low Pt loading.
Application of CT Medical Imaging Combined with Deep Learning 3D Reconstruction in the Diagnosis and Rehabilitation of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Table Tennis Players
Authors: Chen Zhenlei , Xu Jilai , Shen Youqing , Zhao Tianshu , Dong Jiayi
Published: December 2021

Because of the intense competition, table tennis requires players to bear a strong physiological load, which increases the risk of sports injury. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is an important structure of the knee joint to maintain forward stability and rotational stability and is also a common sports injury in table tennis players. ACL has poor self-repair ability after injury. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to provide a more comprehensive, reliable, and representative theoretical basis for the diagnosis and rehabilitation of anterior cruciate ligament injury in table tennis players, and three-dimensional reconstruction of ACL using dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) combined with deep learning was conducted. For this purpose, a number of table tennis players with ACL injuries were collected, and each patient underwent arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. DSCT scanning was performed on several knee joints, the 3D model of the knee joint was reconstructed using a CT image postprocessing workstation, and the medial wall of the femoral lateral condyle was reconstructed, as well as the reconstructed single tract of bony canal, tibial plateau, and bony canal. Then, the Lysholm score was used to score the cases, with scores greater than 75 as the excellent group and below 75 as the poor group. The relative positions of the central points of the femoral and tibial canals were marked and measured. The results were as follows: 3D-CT reconstruction could clearly reflect the situation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. In clinic, it is used to evaluate the relationship between bone tunnel location and graft shape so as to guide the surgeon to improve the operation.
miR‐149 Suppresses the Proliferation and Metastasis of Human Gastric Cancer Cells by Targeting FOXC1
Authors: Li Dan , Zhang Yunqing , Li Yulong , Wang Xiaofei , Wang Fenghui , Du Juan , Zhang Huahua , Shi Haiyan , Wang Yanfeng , Gao Yi , Feng Yun , Yan Jing , Xue Yajuan , Yang Yang , Zhang Jing
Published: December 2021

Purpose. Gastric cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. miRNAs play an important role in regulating gene expression by binding with 3 ′‐UTR of the target gene. The aim of this study was to investigate the function of miRNA‐149 and FOXC1 in gastric cancer. Patients and Methods. qRT‐PCR was used to detect the expression of miRNA‐149 and FOXC1 in gastric cancer tissues and cells. Human gastric cancer cell lines AGS and MKN28 were cultured and transfected with miR‐149 overexpression plasmid and its control or FOXC1 siRNA and its control. The MTT, colony formation, flow cytometry, wound healing, transwell, and western blotting were performed to examine the function of miRNA‐149 and FOXC1 in the development of gastric cancer. What is more, dual‐luciferase assay and western blotting were used to demonstrated the relationship between miRNA‐149 and FOXC1. Results. miRNA‐149 was underexpressed in gastric cancer tissues and cells, while overexpression of miRNA‐149 promoted cell apoptosis, retarded cell cycle, and inhibited proliferation and migration in AGS and MKN28 cells. In addition, we showed that miRNA‐149 targeted FOXC1. What is more, FOXC1 was highly expressed in gastric cancer tissues and cells; the silencing of FOXC1 inhibited the biological function of AGS and MKN28 cells. Conclusion. miRNA‐149 inhibits the biological behavior of gastric cancer by targeting FOXC1, providing a promising target in the treatment of human gastric cancer.