bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response to thermal environment in Tetranychus ludeni (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Authors: Ristyadi Dwi , He Xiong Zhao , Wang Qiao
Published: May 2021

Tetranychus ludeni Zacher is a spider mite that has invaded all continents except Antarctica and become an economically important pest around the world. Understanding the plasticity of its life history traits as a response to temperatures provides critical information for its risk analysis and management. Here we tested its response to temperatures ranging from 15 to 30ºC over two generations. We found that there was no difference in the egg hatch rate and immature survival rate across temperatures in the first generation. However, the egg hatch rate was lower and immature survival rate was higher at 30ºC in the second generation. The sex ratio (proportion of females) of resultant adults was consistent under all test temperatures in both generations except for 30ºC in the second generation which was lower. Higher temperature accelerated development in both generations but the development at the lower temperatures was faster in the second generation. Adult body size in both generations generally decreased with the increase of temperature, with females being more likely than males to adjust body size in response to temperature changes they first experienced. Temperature-dependent body size was not translated into fecundity, but larger adults lived longer. The thermal threshold was lower and degree days (DD) were greater in the second generation than in the first generation. Our findings indicate that life history traits of T. ludeni are highly flexible and adaptive to dynamic thermal environment in successive generations. Furthermore, increasing temperature elevated the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) but shortened the generation time (T) and the time to double the population size (Dt). The net population growth rate (R0) was higher at 20 and 25ºC as compared to lower and higher temperatures.
On the representation of wavefronts localized in space-time and wavenumber-frequency domains
Authors: Zea Elias , Laudato Marco
Published: May 2021

This Letter reports evidence suggesting a representation system for transient waves with band limited spectra, referred to here as localized waves in the space-time and wavenumber-frequency domains. A theoretical analysis with a transient monopole shows that the wavenumber-frequency pressure spectrum is distributed over hyperbolic regions of propagating waves and evanescent waves. An experimental analysis is performed, applying dictionary learning to reverberant sound fields measured with a microphone array in three rooms. The learned components appear to be related by analytical transformations in the spectra, suggesting a partitioning characterized by hyperbolic dispersion curves and multiple directions and times of arrival.
Return to Preinjured Function Following Ankle Injury
Authors: Sciascia Aaron D. , Nitz Arthur J. , McKeon Patrick O. , Havens Jennifer , Uhl Timothy L.
Published: May 2021

Athletic preinjury function is typically determined via subjective recall; however, obtaining preinjury function before injury occurs should be attempted in order to establish an individual baseline for postinjury comparison. The purpose of this study was to obtain preinjury baseline values for the Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI) and Foot and Ankle Disability Index sport version (FADISP), single-leg hop for distance, and Star Excursion Balance Test anterior reach and determine if athletes returned to those values following ankle injury. Out of 41 qualifying injuries, FADI/FADISP scores were significantly reduced at initial injury compared with baseline and all other time points (p < .001) but recovered by discharge. Single-leg hop and Star Excursion Balance Test recovered to baseline values by the discharge time point (p ≥ .98). Subjective and objective preinjury function can be reestablished by discharge from supervised treatment following low-grade ankle injury and maintained for at least 6 months following the cessation of treatment. However, testing metrics should be reviewed on an individual athlete basis, because group data may mask individual patient needs.
Training Intensity Distribution, Training Volume, and Periodization Models in Elite Swimmers: A Systematic Review
Authors: González-Ravé José María , Hermosilla Francisco , González-Mohíno Fernando , Casado Arturo , Pyne David B.
Published: May 2021

A well-planned periodized approach allows swimmers to achieve peak performance at the major national and international competitions. Purpose: To identify the main characteristics of endurance training for highly trained swimmers described by the training intensity distribution (TID), volume, and periodization models. Methods: The electronic databases Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched using a comprehensive list of relevant terms. Studies that investigated the effect of the periodization of training in swimming, with the training load (volume, TID) and periodization reported, were included in the systematic review. Results: A total of 3487 studies were identified, and after removal of duplicates and elimination of papers based on title and abstract screening, 17 articles remained.  A further 8 articles were excluded after full text review, leaving a final total of 9 studies in the systematic review. The evidence levels were 1b for intervention studies (n = 3) and 2b for (observational) retrospective studies (n = 6). The sprint swimmers typically followed a polarized and threshold TID, the middle-distance swimmers followed a threshold and pyramidal TID, and the long-distance swimmers primarily followed a pyramidal TID. The periodization model identified in the majority of studies selected is characterized by wave-like cycles in units like mesocycles to promote physiological adaptations and skill acquisition. Conclusions: Highly trained swimmers follow a training volume and TID based on their primary event. There is a need for further experimental studies on the effects of block and reverse periodization models on swimming performance. Although observational studies of training have limited evidence, it is unclear whether a different training/periodization approach would yield better results.
The Utilization of Core Exercises in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Zuk Emma F. , Kim Gyujin , Rodriguez Jacqueline , Hallaway Brandon , Kuczo Amanda , Deluca Shayna , Allen Kirsten , Glaviano Neal R. , DiStefano Lindsay J.
Published: May 2021

Clinical Scenario:Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is characterized by general anterior knee pain around the patella and is one of the most prevalent knee conditions. PFP is challenging to treat due to a wide range of contributing factors and often has chronic, reoccurring symptoms. Traditional treatment focuses on quadriceps and gluteal strengthening with minimal emphasis on deep trunk musculature. Recently, there has been a growing body of literature supporting the beneficial effects of core stability exercises as a treatment option for PFP.Clinical Question:Are core stability exercises coupled with traditional rehabilitation more effective than only traditional rehabilitation techniques for decreasing pain in patients with PFP?Summary of Key Findings:Three articles met the inclusion criteria and investigated core strengthening exercises as a treatment for PFP. Two studies investigated a 4-week exercise protocol and demonstrated a greater decrease in pain when compared to the control group. The third study examined the effects of a 6-week program where both the intervention and control groups resulted in similar reduction of pain. All articles included received a minimum of 6 on the PEDro scale.Clinical Bottom Line:There is evidence that supports core stability exercise protocols coupled with traditional rehabilitation as being more effective in reducing pain in patients with PFP when compared to traditional rehabilitation alone.Strength of Recommendation:The grade of A is recommended based on the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy.
“Does Anyone Even Care That I’m Down Here?”: Creating Shared Values in a District-Wide Physical Education Professional Learning Community
Authors: Hagenah Sara , Wenner Julianne A. , Tucker Kimberly , Johnson Tyler , Calvert Hannah , Turner Lindsey
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Physical education teachers often report feeling isolated due to being the only specialist in a building. Professional learning communities (PLCs) are spaces where individuals who hold shared goals come together to build connections, allowing educators to feel connected, valued, and empowered. The authors sought to explore the shared values created by a PLC and the process through which that value emerged. Method: The authors facilitated a PLC for eight physical education teachers within one midsized school district and collected interview and meeting audio data to explore the process and outcomes of the PLC. Results: Coding using a Value Creation Framework revealed themes of building common ground, support for big and small problems of practice, and an increased connection with other school faculty. Discussion: Teachers were able to build a supportive network where ideas could be traded, partner support was provided, and problems of practice were discussed.
Developing and Implementing an App-Based Blended Psychological Skills Training: A Case Study
Authors: Stenzel Lukas , Röcken Melissa , Borgmann Simon , Stoll Oliver
Published: May 2021

The present case study describes the content and implementation of a blended psychological skills training, consisting of an app and workshops, with a group of athletes (N = 44) from a Bundesliga soccer academy in Germany. In a pre–post design, athletes completed different questionnaires at two measurement points. There was a significant increase in concentration and self-efficacy and more frequent recovery after the intervention. However, athletes showed equal competition anxiety levels and more frequent stress after the intervention. The app’s training time was brief (M = 14.36 min,SD = 18.17 min) over 9 weeks and did not moderate the intervention’s effects. A comparison between active users and nonusers indicates that the results found were due to the workshops. The qualitative feedback indicates that motivational functions should be added to a psychological skills training app and time slots should be created in athletes’ demanding schedules to ensure high user engagement.
Hexachromatic bioinspired camera for image-guided cancer surgery
Authors: Blair Steven , Garcia Missael , Davis Tyler , Zhu Zhongmin , Liang Zuodong , Konopka Christian , Kauffman Kevin , Colanceski Risto , Ferati Imran , Kondov Borislav , Stojanoski Sinisa , Todorovska Magdalena Bogdanovska , Dimitrovska Natasha Toleska , Jakupi Nexhat , Miladinova Daniela , Petrusevska Gordana , Kondov Goran , Dobrucki Wawrzyniec Lawrence , Nie Shuming , Gruev Viktor
Published: May 2021

A color/near-infrared camera inspired by the mantis shrimp visual system enables tumor detection and lymph node mapping during cancer surgery.
An RNA aptamer restores defective bone growth in FGFR3-related skeletal dysplasia in mice
Authors: Kimura Takeshi , Bosakova Michaela , Nonaka Yosuke , Hruba Eva , Yasuda Kie , Futakawa Satoshi , Kubota Takuo , Fafilek Bohumil , Gregor Tomas , Abraham Sara P. , Gomolkova Regina , Belaskova Silvie , Pesl Martin , Csukasi Fabiana , Duran Ivan , Fujiwara Masatoshi , Kavkova Michaela , Zikmund Tomas , Kaiser Josef , Buchtova Marcela , Krakow Deborah , Nakamura Yoshikazu , Ozono Keiichi , Krejci Pavel
Published: May 2021

We report reversal of the FGFR3-related skeletal dysplasia by RNA aptamer designed to neutralize FGFR3 ligand FGF2.
iPSC–endothelial cell phenotypic drug screening and in silico analyses identify tyrphostin-AG1296 for pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Gu Mingxia , Donato Michele , Guo Minzhe , Wary Neil , Miao Yifei , Mao Shuai , Saito Toshie , Otsuki Shoichiro , Wang Lingli , Harper Rebecca L. , Sa Silin , Khatri Purvesh , Rabinovitch Marlene
Published: May 2021

Drug screening for improved function and transcriptomics of iPSC-derived endothelial cells from patients with pulmonary hypertension reveals AG1296.
A subset of cytotoxic effector memory T cells enhances CAR T cell efficacy in a model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Konduri Vanaja , Joseph Sujith K. , Byrd Tiara T. , Nawas Zeid , Vazquez-Perez Jonathan , Hofferek Colby J. , Halpert Matthew M. , Liu Dongliang , Liang Zhengdong , Baig Yunyu , Salsman Vita S. , Oyewole-Said Damilola , Tsimelzon Anna , Burns Briana A. , Chen Changyi , Levitt Jonathan M. , Yao Qizhi , Ahmed Nabil M. , Hegde Meenakshi , Decker William K.
Published: May 2021

A highly cytotoxic T cell memory subset demonstrates intrinsic advantages when used as a CAR T cell platform in a solid tumor model.
Ultrasensitive Detection of p24 in Plasma Samples from People with Primary and Chronic HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Passaes Caroline , Delagreverie Héloïse M. , Avettand-Fenoel Véronique , David Annie , Monceaux Valérie , Essat Asma , Müller-Trutwin Michaela , Duffy Darragh , De Castro Nathalie , Wittkop Linda , Rouzioux Christine , Molina Jean-Michel , Meyer Laurence , Delaugerre Constance , Sáez-Cirión Asier
Published: May 2021

The introduction of combined antiretroviral treatment has transformed HIV-1 infection into a manageable condition. In this context, there is a need for additional biomarkers to monitor HIV-1 residual disease or the outcome of new interventions, such as in the case of HIV cure strategies.
A Cell Culture-Adapted Vaccine Virus against the Current African Swine Fever Virus Pandemic Strain
Authors: Borca M. V. , Rai A. , Ramirez-Medina E. , Silva E. , Velazquez-Salinas L. , Vuono E. , Pruitt S. , Espinoza N. , Gladue D. P.
Published: May 2021

African swine fever is currently causing a pandemic resulting in devastating losses to the swine industry. Experimental ASF vaccines rely on the production of vaccine in primary swine macrophages, which are difficult to use for the production of a vaccine on a commercial level.
Genome Sequence of the Type Strain Azospira restricta SUA2 (DSM 18626)
Authors: Mikes Madison C. , Moe William M.
Published: May 2021

Azospira restricta
SUA2
T
(DSM 18626) is a Gram-negative-staining bacterium able to fix nitrogen and accumulate polyhydroxybutyrate storage granules. Here, we report the complete genome sequence (3,975,213 bp with 68.64 mol% G+C content), which may prove useful in future efforts to assess the role of
Azospira
in nutrient cycling.
Genome Sequence and Methylation Pattern of Haloterrigena salifodinae BOL5-1, an Extremely Halophilic Archaeon from a Bolivian Salt Mine
Authors: DasSarma Priya , Anton Brian P. , DasSarma Satyajit L. , von Ehrenheim Hedvig A. L. , Martinez Fabiana L. , Guzmán Daniel , Roberts Richard J. , DasSarma Shiladitya
Published: May 2021

The halophilic archaeon
Haloterrigena salifodinae
BOL5-1 was isolated from a Bolivian salt mine and sequenced using single-molecule real-time sequencing. The GC-rich genome was 5.1 Mbp, with a 4.2-Mbp chromosome and 5 plasmids ranging from 96 to 281 kbp. The genome annotation was incorporated into HaloWeb (
https://halo.umbc.edu
) and the methylation patterns into REBASE (
http://rebase.neb.com
).

Halophilic microbes capable of surviving extreme conditions are of interest for biotechnology and astrobiology (
1
–
12
). Our recent focus has been on high elevation and subsurface hypersaline environments, which yield polyextremophilic varieties. In this announcement, isolation of an extremely halophilic archaeon,
Haloterrigena salifodinae
BOL5-1, is reported, together with the first complete genome sequence for this species.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Endosymbiotic Bacterium “
Candidatus
Riesia pediculicola”
Authors: Park Jongsun , Lee Si Hyeock , Kim Ju Hyeon
Published: May 2021

Human head and body lice host the obligate endosymbiotic bacterium “
Candidatus
Riesia pediculicola.” In this announcement, we describe the complete genome sequence of a “
Ca.
Riesia pediculicola” strain isolated from the human head louse,
Pediculus humanus
subsp.
capitis
. The inter- and intraspecific variations of endosymbiont genomes were investigated, and this strain was found to display high-level variations in its genome.
Association of Total Sarnat Score with brain injury and neurodevelopmental outcomes after neonatal encephalopathy
Authors: Morales Maria Moreno , Montaldo Paolo , Ivain Phoebe , Pant Stuti , Kumar Vijay , Krishnan Vaisakh , Shankaran Seetha , Thayyil Sudhin
Published: May 2021

We examined the association of Total Sarnat Score (TSS) with brain injury on neonatal magnetic resonance (MR) and adverse neurodevelopmental outcome (NDO) (death or moderate or severe disability) at 2 years of age in 145 infants undergoing therapeutic hypothermia for neonatal encephalopathy. TSS was associated with basal ganglia/thalamic injury on conventional MR (p=0.03) and thalamic N-acetyl aspartate on MR spectroscopy (R2=0.16, p=0.004) at 2 weeks of age, and Bayley Composite Cognitive (R2=0.18, p=0.01), Motor (R2=0.15, p=0.02) and Language (R2=0.11, p=0.01) Scores at 2 years of age after adjustment for seizures at the time of neurological assessment. The accuracy of TSS (area under the curve (AUC)=0.71) for predicting adverse NDO was similar to the modified Sarnat staging (AUC=0.72). TSS of >12 within 6 hours of birth indicated high risk of adverse NDO, while TSS of <4 indicated intact survival and was reassuring of a good outcome among cooled infants.
Severe amnestic syndrome due to theophylline toxicity
Authors: Joyce Eimear , Olszewska Diana Angelika , Davy Shane , Counihan Timothy J
Published: May 2021

We report a case of severe amnestic syndrome following theophylline overdose. A woman in her early 30s was admitted to hospital where she developed status epilepticus following an intentional overdose of theophylline and lansoprazole. She developed a profound acidosis and required intubation in the intensive care unit. Following extubation the patient was noted to have a severe amnestic syndrome with poor short-term memory. A work-up to exclude infectious, autoimmune and paraneoplastic causes for encephalitis was undertaken. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis was normal and autoimmune encephalitis titres were negative. Initial MRI brain imaging demonstrated hyperintensities of the mesial temporal lobes bilaterally. Follow-up imaging at 4 months identified further interval reduction but persistent hippocampal hyperintensities. Theophylline toxicity with corresponding amnestic syndrome and hippocampal hyperintensities has been rarely reported. We believe this case with persistent abnormal Montreal Cognitive Assessment Score at 12 months correlates with persistent hippocampal abnormalities seen on imaging.
Endovascular thromboaspiration with neurointerventional devices for early hepatic artery thrombosis after split liver transplant
Authors: Argirò Renato , Raso Armando , Vidali Sofia , Morosetti Daniele
Published: May 2021

We report the case of a 38-year-old woman who underwent orthotopic ‘split’ liver transplant, complicated by hepatic artery thrombosis on the first postoperative day. The patient was successfully treated with an endovascular approach by mechanical thromboaspiration of the hepatic artery, using neurovascular devices, angioplasty and stenting at the site of the surgical anastomosis.
Recommended dietary practice and associated factors among patients with diabetes at Debre Tabor General Hospital, northwest Ethiopia: institutional-based cross-sectional study design
Authors: Ambaw Marie Libasie , Gete Yigzaw Kebede , Abebe Solomon Mekonnen , Teshome Destaw Fetene , Gonete Kedir Abdela
Published: May 2021

Objective

This study aimed to assess dietary practice and associated factors among patients with diabetes attending the Debre Tabor General Hospital.

Design

Institutional-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

Amhara regional state, Debre Tabor General Hospital.

Participants

Patients with diabetes attending the diabetics’ clinic.

Measurements

The study was conducted from February to March 2016. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the study participants and data were collected using a pretested structured interviewer administered questionnaire. Patients’ dietary practice was assessed using the general advice for diabetic plan containing 11 items. The data were entered using Epi Info V.7 and analysed using SPSS V.20. Binary logistic regressions analysis was used to identify factors associated with poor dietary practice. Adjusted ORs (AORs) with corresponding 95% CI and p˂0.05 were used to identify significant factors affecting poor dietary practice.

Results

A total of 390 patients with diabetes were participated in the study making a response rate of 96.5%. The overall proportion of poor dietary practice was 55.4% (95% CI 50.8% to 60.5%). Respondents of rural residence (AOR 1.99, 95% CI 1.21 to 3.28), Not getting diabetic nutrition education (AOR 3.32, 95% CI 2.02 to 5.44), difficulty to determine what to eat (AOR 5.49, 95% CI 3.34 to 9.02), not having family/friends support (AOR 2.50, 95% CI 1.46 to 4.27), worried about high cost of foods (AOR 2.12, 95% CI 1.29 to 3.49) were significantly associated with poor dietary practice.

Conclusions

More than half of patients with diabetes were had poor dietary practice. Rural dwellers, not getting nutrition education, difficulty of choosing foods, not getting family/friends support and worried about high cost of foods were positively and significantly associated with poor dietary practice. Hence, integration of diabetic based nutrition education with motivation particularly for rural patients is highly recommended.
How is television time linked to cardiometabolic health in adults? A critical systematic review of the evidence for an effect of watching television on eating, movement, affect and sleep
Authors: Wagnild Janelle M , Pollard Tessa M
Published: May 2021

Objective

To improve our understanding of how television (TV) time is linked to cardiometabolic health among adults by systematically and critically evaluating the evidence that watching TV is associated with increased food consumption, lack of movement or negative affect or affects subsequent sleep.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Web of Science and PubMed.

Eligibility criteria

Studies that provided quantitative evidence on short-term associations of watching TV with dietary intake, characteristics of sitting, affect and sleep among samples of healthy adults (≥18 years old).

Data extraction and synthesis

Study quality was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tools; studies deemed to be of low quality were excluded from the review. Due to heterogeneity of study designs and measurements, the findings were synthesised using narrative summary accompanied by custom plots.

Results

We identified 31 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Most of the associations reported by the studies included in this review were weak or inconsistent. There was no strong evidence to suggest that food consumption is higher while watching TV than in other contexts or that TV is a particularly ‘sedentary’ behaviour. Affect was less likely to be positive while watching TV than in other contexts but was not more likely to be negative. Two small studies suggest that TV may impact sleep via suppressing melatonin and delaying bedtime.

Conclusion

There is currently no strong evidence to suggest that TV might impact cardiometabolic health via increasing food consumption, being linked with prolonged/inactive sitting, affect or subsequent sleep. Additional research is required to understand how TV fits within everyday lives and relates to eating, sitting, affect and sleep to improve our understanding of how it might impact cardiometabolic health.
Postpartum haemorrhage and risk of long-term hypertension and cardiovascular disease: an English population-based longitudinal study using linked primary and secondary care databases
Authors: Parry-Smith William , Šumilo Dana , Subramanian Anuradhaa , Gokhale Krishna , Okoth Kelvin , Gallos Ioannis , Coomarasamy Arri , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah
Published: May 2021

Objective

To investigate the long-term risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD) among those women who suffered a postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) compared with those women who did not.

Design

Population-based longitudinal open cohort study.

Setting

English primary care (The Health Improvement Network (THIN)) and secondary care (Hospital Episode Statistics (HES)) databases.

Population

Women exposed to PPH during the study period matched for age and date of delivery, and unexposed.

Methods

We conducted an open cohort study using linked primary care THIN and HES Databases, from 1 January 1997 to 31 January 2018. A total of 42 327 women were included: 14 109 of them exposed to PPH during the study period and 28 218 matched for age and date of delivery, and unexposed to PPH. HRs for cardiovascular outcomes among women who had and did not have PPH were estimated after controlling for covariates using multivariate Cox regression models.

Outcome measures

Risk of hypertensive disease, ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, stroke or transient ischaemic attack.

Results

During a median follow-up of over 4 years, there was no significant difference in the risk of hypertensive disease after adjustment for covariates (adjusted HR (aHR): 1.03 (95% CI: 0.87 to 1.22); p=0.71). We also did not observe a statistically significant difference in the risk of composite CVD (ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, stroke or transient ischaemic attack) between the exposed and the unexposed cohort (aHR: 0.86 (95% CI: 0.52 to 1.43; p=0.57).

Conclusion

Over a median follow-up of 4 years, we did not observe an association between PPH and hypertension or CVD.
Self-management for patients on ventricular assist device support: a national, multicentre study: protocol for a 3-phase study
Authors: Kugler Christiane , Spielmann Hannah , Seemann Maiken , Lauenroth Volker , Wacker Renata , Albert Wolfgang , Spitz-Koeberich Christine , Semmig-Koenze Sandra , von Cube Maja , Tigges-Limmer Katharina
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Self-management (SM) may facilitate patient participation and involvement to become active and knowledgeable partners in the care of complex chronic conditions such as ventricular assist device (VAD) therapy. The ‘SM model for patients on VAD support’ will serve to distinguish between SM components, and will guide the development, implementation and evaluation of an evidence-based curriculum.

Methods and analysis

This is a 3-phase, multicentre study. In phase 1, a prevalence study will be performed. Phase 2 aims to develop an evidence-based, interprofessional curriculum for SM support for VAD patients. In phase 3, a non-blinded block-randomised controlled trial (RCT), allocation ratio 1:1, intervention group superiority, with an unblinded multifacetted intervention with assessments before (T1) and after (T2) the intervention, and two follow-up assessments at three (T3), and 12 (T4) months after VAD implantation, will be performed. The curriculum guides the intervention in the RCT. Patient recruitment will consider centre-related volume: power analyses require 384 patients for phase 1, and 142 patients for phase 3.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical considerations will be continuously taken into account and approved by the institutional review boards. Central ethical review board approval has been obtained by the Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg. This study will be performed in concordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and the European data protection law. Publications will exclusively report aggregated data and will be distributed in the scientific community, and patient support groups. Report languages will be German and English.

Trial registration numbers

NCT04234230andNCT04526964; Pre-results.
Improving outcomes for primary school children at risk of cerebral visual impairment (the CVI project): protocol of a feasibility study for a cluster-randomised controlled trial and health economic evaluation
Authors: Williams Cathy , Pease Anna , Goodenough Trudy , Breheny Katie , Gaunt Daisy , Sinai Parisa , Watanabe Rose
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) refers to a spectrum of brain-related vision problems. CVI is associated with poor educational and mental health outcomes. An intervention has been developed to help children with CVI, involving input from clinicians, teachers and parents. The effectiveness of this intervention needs to be evaluated. This study aims to guide any refinements to the intervention or the design of a future cluster-randomised trial that may be needed.

Methods and analysis

This study will include all methods anticipated for a future cluster-randomised controlled trial. Eight primary schools will be recruited and randomised to receive the intervention or carry on with usual practice. The intervention will comprise an information pack for schools and access to a local paediatric ophthalmology clinic (who are prepared to assess them for CVI), for up to 5% of participating children. Outcome assessments will be carried out at baseline (before randomisation) and after 4–5 months of intervention period. Assessments will include children’s self-reported quality of life, their learning ability and behaviour as reported by teachers, and family functioning reported by parents. Cost data will include service use, family expenditure on additional support (eg, private appointments and administration) and school spending and resource used in helping children with special educational needs or disability. A process evaluation (PE) will collect additional data relating to the implementation of the intervention and the trial processes, in the school and clinic settings. The protocol for the PE will be reported separately.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical permission was obtained from the University of Bristol Faculty of Health Sciences Ethical Committee. The results will inform the design of a future trial to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the intervention and will be shared with participants, CVI-support groups and peer-viewed journals.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN13762177; Pre-results.
Improving outcomes for primary school children at risk of cerebral visual impairments (the CVI project): study protocol for the process evaluation of a feasibility cluster-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Pease Anna , Goodenough Trudy , Sinai Parisa , Breheny Katie , Watanabe Rose , Williams Cathy
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Brain-related visual impairments, also known as cerebral visual impairment (CVI), are related to damage or poor function in the vision-related areas of the brain. There is broad agreement that CVI is an appropriate term to describe visual impairments that are not accounted by disorders of the eye or optic nerve, but differences remain as to which impairments can be included in this term. The CVI project is a programme of work that includes the development of a complex intervention to share knowledge with teachers, so that they can make both targeted and universal changes to support children with CVI. A feasibility study for a cluster-randomised controlled trial to evaluate this intervention is underway. This paper describes the protocol for an accompanying process evaluation to explore how the intervention is implemented and provide context for the interpretation of the feasibility trial outcomes.

Methods and analysis

A logic model has been developed to guide data collection. Both qualitative and quantitative data will be collected to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention, the study design and explore how any changes that occur are brought about. Interviews with key primary school staff and parents will investigate responses to the intervention and trial processes. Surveys will collect data on intervention implementation and knowledge of CVI. Photographs of classroom walls will document any changes to visual clutter and document analysis will look for changes to school special educational needs and disability (SEND) policies.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted by the University of Bristol Faculty of Health Sciences Ethics Committee. Findings will contribute to the development of a full-scale cluster-randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of the intervention with adequate statistical power. The results will also support the refinement of the intervention and its underlying theory.
High frequency ofPIK3CAandTERTpromoter mutations in fibromatosis-like spindle cell carcinomas
Authors: Zhong Siyuan , Zhou Shuling , Li Anqi , Lv Hong , Li Ming , Tang Shaoxian , Xu Xiaoli , Shui Ruohong , Yang Wentao
Published: May 2021

Aims

Fibromatosis-like spindle cell carcinomas (FLSCCs) are rare metaplastic breast cancers (MBCs) that are characterised by bland spindle cells in a collagenous stroma. Although some MBCs are highly malignant, FLSCCs have indolent behaviour with low potential for lymph node or distant metastasis. Owing to their rarity, there are limited genomic data on FLSCCs. In this study, we analysed the clinicopathological features and molecular characteristics of four FLSCCs to elucidate the pathogenesis of these rare tumours.

Methods and results

Four pure FLSCCs were sequenced by DIAN (Hangzhou Lab) using a 324-gene platform (FoundationOne CDx) with licensed technologies. The results showed that most FLSCCs harboured the pathogenic H1047R mutation inPIK3CA(3/4, 75%) and the −124C>T mutation in the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter (3/4, 75%). No copy number variations were observed in any cases in our study.

Conclusions

Our study showed thatPIK3CAandTERTpromoter mutations were common genetic features of FLSCCs. These ﬁndings contribute to our understanding of FLSCCs biology.
Ethnicity influences total serum vitamin B12concentration: a study of Black, Asian and White patients in a primary care setting
Authors: O'Logbon Jessica , Crook Martin , Steed David , Harrington Dominic Jon , Sobczyńska-Malefora Agata
Published: May 2021

Aims

A growing body of evidence suggests that ethnicity and race influence vitamin B12metabolism and status yet clinical awareness of this is poor, causing doubts regarding diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, deficiency and insufficiency cut-offs are universally applied for this test in most diagnostic settings. The objective of this study was to assess serum vitamin B12concentrations in Black, Asian and White primary care patients in London, UK, particularly in patients of Black or Black British ethnic origin and establish if there is a need for specific reference ranges.

Methods

Serum B12results from 49 414 patients were processed between January 2018 and November 2019 using the Architect assay (Abbott Diagnostics) at St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, UK. Age, sex and ethnicity data were collected from the laboratory Health Informatics Team.

Results

Black patients (n=13 806) were found to have significantly higher serum vitamin B12concentration across all age groups and both sexes, especially Nigerian patients (median B12505 pmol/L,IQR: 362–727, n=891), compared with Asian and White ethnic groups (p<0.001). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the Black or Black British ethnic group had the strongest association with elevated serum B12(>652 pmol/L) (adjusted OR 3.38, 95% CI 3.17 to 3.61, p<0.0001).

Conclusions

It is likely that a combination of genetic and acquired/environmental factors are responsible for the ethnic differences in serum B12. This suggests that there is a need for ethnic-specific reference ranges with indications for the incorporation of age and sex too.
Substance use treatment partially mitigates association between methamphetamine use and STI risk: findings from the NSDUH cohort
Authors: Sherman Jessica P , Dyar Christina , Morgan Ethan
Published: May 2021

Background

In recent years, both methamphetamine use and STIs have been on the rise in the USA. In this analysis, we sought to ascertain whether the risk of STIs and HIV among methamphetamine users was moderated on the basis of participation in substance use treatment programmes.

Methods

Data came from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2015–2019. Among adult participants, survey-weighted logistic regression analyses were used to assess the relationship between past year methamphetamine use and risk of HIV and STIs, stratified by methamphetamine treatment utilisation and adjusted for demographic and other risk factors.

Results

Among participants in the analytic sample (n=210 392), 1862 (0.9%) reported past year methamphetamine use, 566 (0.3%) reported receiving treatment for its use, 5471 (2.6%) tested positive for any STI in the past year and 395 (0.2%) for HIV ever in their lifetime. Past year methamphetamine use was associated with increased risk of STIs among those who did not receive treatment (adjusted OR=3.628; 95% CI 2.75 to 4.92). Significant moderation was also present between past-year methamphetamine use, risk of STI, and substance use treatment.

Conclusion

In this analysis, we demonstrated a strong relationship between methamphetamine use and risk of STIs that differed based on receipt of substance use treatment. These findings suggested that integrated STI and substance use treatment programmes may yield substantial public health benefits.
Prolongation of experimental diabetes mellitus increased susceptibility to reperfusion ventricular tachyarrhythmias
Authors: Pershina Ekaterina , Azarov Jan , Vaykshnorayte Marina , Bernikova Olesya , Ovechkin Alexey
Published: May 2021

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with increased risk of sudden cardiac death, but its role in arrhythmogenesis is not clear. We evaluated contributions of DM duration and hyperglycemia level to development of proarrhythmic electrophysiological changes in the experimental ischemia/reperfusion model. Ventricular epicardial 64-lead mapping and arrhythmia susceptibility burst-pacing testing were performed in 43 healthy and 55 diabetic (alloxan model) anesthetized rabbits undergoing 15 min left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion, followed by 15 min reperfusion. During ischemia, arrhythmia inducibility did not differ between the groups, but the number of reperfusion ventricular tachycardias and (or) fibrillations (VT/VFs) were higher in the DM group (14 out of 55) as compared with control (3 out of 43, p = 0.017). In the diabetic animals, both DM duration and glucose concentration were associated with reperfusion VT/VF development in univariate logistic regression analysis (odds ratio (OR) 1.058, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.025–1.092, p < 0.001; and OR 1.119, 95% CI 1.045–1.198, p = 0.001, respectively). Only the DM duration, however, remained an independent predictor of reperfusion VT/VF in multivariate logistic regression analysis (OR 1.060, 95% CI 1.006–1.117, p = 0.029). Among mapping parameters, DM duration was associated with the prolongation of total ventricular activation duration (regression coefficient 0.152, 95% CI 0.049–0.255, p = 0.005) and activation-repolarization intervals (ARIs) (regression coefficient 0.900, 95% CI 0.315–1.484, p = 0.003). The prolonged ARI was the only mapping characteristic predicting reperfusion VT/VF development (OR 1.028, 95% CI 1.009–1.048, p = 0.004). The DM duration-dependent prolongation of ventricular repolarization presents a link between DM development and reperfusion VT/VF inducibility.
Excited lepton triplet contribution to electroweak observables at one loop level
Authors: Rehman M. , Gomez M. E. , Panella O.
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we present the one-loop radiative corrections to the electroweak precision observable $$\Delta \rho $$

Δ
ρ

coming from the $$I_W=1$$

I
W

=
1

multiplet excited leptons. We have calculated the couplings of the exotic lepton triplet to the vector bosons and ordinary leptons using the effective Lagrangian approach. These couplings are then used to estimate the excited lepton triplet contribution to the $$\Delta \rho $$

Δ
ρ

parameter. The mass degenerate excited lepton contribution to $$\Delta \rho $$

Δ
ρ

is small and can be neglected. However, if the excited leptons are non-degenerate, their contribution can be large which can result in more stringent constraints on the excited fermion parameter space compared to the constraints from present experimental searches and perturbative unitarity condition.
A massless scalar particle coupled to the Wahlquist metric
Authors: Birkandan T. , Hortaçsu M.
Published: May 2021

We study the solutions of the wave equation where a massless scalar field is coupled to the Wahlquist metric, a type-D solution. We first take the full metric, and then write simplifications of the metric by taking some of the constants in the metric null. When we do not equate any of the arbitrary constants in the metric to zero, we find the solution is given in terms of the general Heun function, apart from some simple functions multiplying this solution. This is also true, if we equate one of the constants$$Q_0$$Q0or$$a_1$$a1to zero. When both the NUT related constant$$a_1$$a1and$$Q_0$$Q0are zero, the singly confluent Heun function is the solution. When we also equate the constant$$\nu _0$$ν0to zero, we get the double confluent Heun-type solution. In the latter two cases, we have an exponential and two monomials raised to powers multiplying the Heun type function. Thus, we generalize the Batic et al. result for type-D metrics for this metric and show that all variations of the Wahlquist metric give Heun type solutions.
The Norm Convergence of a Least Squares Approximation Method for Random Maps
Authors: Bangura Raymond Manna , Jin Congming , Ding Jiu
Published: May 2021

We prove the [Formula: see text]-norm and bounded variation norm convergence of a piecewise linear least squares method for the computation of an invariant density of the Foias operator associated with a random map with position dependent probabilities. Then we estimate the convergence rate of this least squares method in the [Formula: see text]-norm and the bounded variation norm, respectively. The numerical results, which demonstrate a higher order accuracy than the linear spline Markov method, support the theoretical analysis.
Effect of Self Feedback on Mean-Field Coupled Oscillators: Revival and Quenching of Oscillations
Authors: Chakraborty Saumen , Dandapathak Manaj , De Sarkar Saumendra Sankar
Published: May 2021

Interaction among different units in a network of oscillators may often lead to quenching of oscillations and the importance of oscillation quenching can be found in controlling the dynamics of many real world systems. But there are also many real life phenomena where suppression of oscillation should be avoided for maintaining the sustained evolution of the system. In this work, we propose a self-feedback control scheme through which one is able to either achieve quenching or to retrieve the rhythmic behavior in a network of mean-field diffusively coupled systems. It is found that for proper choice of the strength of the control signal, the system converges to an oscillatory state from oscillation quenched state and for further increase of the strength the system enters in chaotic region. Moreover, reversal of the phase of the control signal can induce suppression of oscillation. Thus, the proposed modification offers a better control on the dynamics of the mean-field coupled system. In addition to this, a new transition phenomenon from inhomogeneous limit cycle (IHLC) to homogeneous limit cycle (HLC) through chaotic route has also been found in the modified system.
Applications of Statistical Convergence in Complex Uncertain Sequences via Deferred Riesz Mean
Authors: Saini Kavita , Raj Kuldip
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we intend to make a new approach to introduce the concept of tn-statistical convergence of complex uncertain sequences like tn-statistical convergence almost surely (a.s.), tn-statistical convergence in measure, tn-statistical convergence in mean, tn-statistical convergence in distribution and tn-statistical convergence in uniformly almost surely (u.a.s). Various inclusion relations are established between newly formed sequence spaces.
A Combined Clustering Algorithm Based on ESynC Algorithm and a Merging Judgement Process of Micro-Clusters
Authors: Chen Xinquan , Qiu Yirou
Published: May 2021

The first synchronization clustering (SynC) algorithm based on an extensive Kuromato model was presented in 2010. In 2017, an effective synchronization clustering (ESynC) algorithm, inspired by SynC algorithm and a linear version of Vicsek model, was proposed. When facing complex data distributions, ESynC algorithm may regard an irregular and whole cluster as some micro-clusters. To conquer this shortcoming, a combined clustering algorithm based on ESynC algorithm and a merging judgement process of micro-clusters (CESynC) is presented. CESynC algorithm first uses ESynC algorithm to detect clusters or micro-clusters, then merges those conjoint micro-clusters by using a merging judgement process. For some datasets that ESynC and SynC cannot detect correct clusters, CESynC can capture natural clusters. From the simulation experiments, we observe that CESynC can get better (or the same) clustering results than (or as) that of ESynC in many cases. We also observe that the clustering results of CESynC and ESynC are often better than that of SynC. Therefore, we can say CESynC can often obtain better clustering quality than ESynC and SynC in some kinds of datasets. Further comparison experiments with some classical clustering algorithms demonstrate the clustering effect of CESynC.
COMPARISON OF THE INFLUENCE OF PHYTIC ACID AND SILANE ADDITIVES ON CORROSION RESISTANCE OF CERAMIC COATINGS ON Mg ALLOY BY PEO METHOD
Authors: PAK SUNG-NAM , JU KYONG-SIK , NAM KWANG-WON , PANG CHOL-HO
Published: May 2021

Phytic acid (PA) and 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (APTMS) were selected as organic additives and respectively doped into Na2SiO3-NaOH electrolyte to prepare ceramic coatings on AZ31B Mg alloys by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) method. The influences of two additives on corrosion resistance of the PEO coatings were compared. The microstructure, composition and corrosion resistance of the PEO coatings were examined by SEM, EDX, XPS, XRD, potentiodynamic polarization test and EIS measurement. The results indicated that each additive increased both the coating thickness and corrosion resistance. However, the PA-doped PEO coating achieves larger thickness but exhibits worse corrosion resistance than the APTMS-doped PEO coating due to larger pore size and looser microstructure.
Binarization of Stone Inscription Images by Modified Bi-level Entropy Thresholding
Authors: Sukanthi  , Murugan S. Sakthivel , Hanis S.
Published: May 2021

India is rich in its heritage and culture. It has many historical monuments and temples where the walls are made of inscribed stones and rocks. The stone inscriptions play a vital role in portraying about the ancient incidents. Hence, the digitization of these stone inscriptions is necessary and contributes much for the epigraphers. Recently, the digitizing of these inscriptions began with the binarization process of stone inscriptions. This process mainly depends on the thresholding technique. In this paper, the binarization of terrestrial and underwater stone inscription images is preceded by a contrast enhancement and succeeded by edge-based filtering that minimizes noise and fine points the edges. A new method called modified bi-level thresholding (MBET) algorithm is proposed and compared with various existing thresholding algorithms namely Otsu method, Niblack method, Sauvola method, Bernsen method and Fuzzy C means method. The obtained results are evaluated with the performance metrics such as peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and standard deviation (SD). It is observed that the proposed method has an improvement of 49% and 39%, respectively, on an average by the metrics considered.