bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Gut Microbiota in the High-Risk Construct of Severe Mental Disorders: A Mini Review
Authors: Sani Gabriele , Manchia Mirko , Simonetti Alessio , Janiri Delfina , Paribello Pasquale , Pinna Federica , Carpiniello Bernardo
Published: January 2021

Severe mental disorders (SMD) are highly prevalent psychiatric conditions exerting an enormous toll on society. Therefore, prevention of SMD has received enormous attention in the last two decades. Preventative approaches are based on the knowledge and detailed characterization of the developmental stages of SMD and on risk prediction. One relevant biological component, so far neglected in high risk research, is microbiota. The human microbiota consists in the ensemble of microbes, including viruses, bacteria, and eukaryotes, that inhabit several ecological niches of the organism. Due to its demonstrated role in modulating illness and health, as well in influencing behavior, much interest has focused on the characterization of the microbiota inhabiting the gut. Several studies in animal models have shown the early modifications in the gut microbiota might impact on neurodevelopment and the onset of deficits in social behavior corresponding to distinct neurosignaling alterations. However, despite this evidence, only one study investigated the effect of altered microbiome and risk of developing mental disorders in humans, showing that individuals at risk for SMD had significantly different global microbiome composition than healthy controls. We then offer a developmental perspective and provided mechanistic insights on how changes in the microbiota could influence the risk of SMD. We suggest that the analysis of microbiota should be included in the comprehensive assessment generally performed in populations at high risk for SMD as it can inform predictive models and ultimately preventative strategies.
Efficacy of an Internet-Based Intervention for Subclinical Depression (MoodBox) in China: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chen Xu , Zhang Xiaolong , Zhu Xuequan , Wang Gang
Published: January 2021

Background: Subclinical depression is a prevalent mental health problem and increases the incidence of the onset of major mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder (MDD). Psychological interventions have been proved to be effective for reducing depressive symptoms for people with subclinical depression and can prevent the onset of MDD. However, people have limited access to face-to-face psychotherapy. Internet-based psychological intervention is an alternative treatment option. The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of MoodBox, an online psychological intervention program, for subclinical depression.

Methods: This study is a multicenter, randomized, controlled, non-blinded superiority study with three parallel groups. A total of 435 first-year university students with subclinical depression will be recruited. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to the MoodBox group, the online psychoeducation group, and the naturalistic observation group at a ratio of 1:1:1. The intervention period is 8 weeks, and participants will be continuously followed up for 1 year. The primary outcome of the study is the efficacy of the intervention, defined as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).

Discussion: This is the first study to innovatively develop and test an intervention to improve psychological well-being and decrease the incidence of MDD in a subclinical depression population in China. Once proven effective and acceptable, MoodBox could be potentially integrated into the routine clinical service to facilitate the management for people with subclinical depression.

Clinical Trial Registration: The trial is registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on 21 July 2020 (No. ChiCTR2000034826).
Spatio-Temporal Representativeness of Air Quality Monitoring Stations in Mexico City: Implications for Public Health
Authors: Baca-López Karol , Fresno Cristóbal , Espinal-Enríquez Jesús , Martínez-García Mireya , Camacho-López Miguel Angel , Flores-Merino Miriam V. , Hernández-Lemus Enrique
Published: January 2021

Assessment of the air quality in metropolitan areas is a major challenge in environmental sciences. Issues related include the distribution of monitoring stations, their spatial range, or missing information. In Mexico City, stations have been located spanning the entire Metropolitan zone for pollutants, such as CO, NO2, O3, SO2, PM2.5, PM10, NO, NOx, and PMCO. A fundamental question is whether the number and location of such stations are adequate to optimally cover the city. By analyzing spatio-temporal correlations for pollutant measurements, we evaluated the distribution and performance of monitoring stations in Mexico City from 2009 to 2018. Based on our analysis, air quality evaluation of those contaminants is adequate to cover the 16 boroughs of Mexico City, with the exception of SO2, since its spatial range is shorter than the one needed to cover the whole surface of the city. We observed that NO and NOx concentrations must be taken into account since their long-range dispersion may have relevant consequences for public health. With this approach, we may be able to propose policy based on systematic criteria to locate new monitoring stations.
Clinical Characteristics and Diagnostic Challenges of COVID−19: An Update From the Global Perspective
Authors: Israfil S. M. Hasan , Sarker Md. Moklesur Rahman , Rashid Parisa Tamannur , Talukder Ali Azam , Kawsar Khandkar Ali , Khan Farzana , Akhter Selina , Poh Chit Laa , Mohamed Isa Naina , Ming Long Chiau
Published: January 2021

Clinical characteristics are essential for the correct diagnosis of diseases. The current review aimed to summarize the global clinical characteristics of the COVID-19 patients systematically and identify their diagnostic challenges to help the medical practitioners properly diagnose and for better management of COVID-19 patients. We conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases for original articles containing clinical information of COVID-19 published up to 7th May 2020. Two researchers independently searched the databases to extract eligible articles. A total of 34 studies from 8 different countries with 10889 case-patients were included for clinical characteristics. The most common clinical symptoms were cough 59.6, fever 46.9, fatigue 27.8, and dyspnea 20.23%. The prominent laboratory findings were lymphocytopenia 55.9, elevated levels of CRP 61.9, aspartate aminotransferase 53.3, LDH 40.8, ESR 72.99, serum ferritin 63, IL-6 52, and prothrombin time 35.47%, and decreased levels of platelets 17.26, eosinophils 59.0, hemoglobin 29, and albumin 38.4%. CT scan of the chest showed an abnormality in 93.50% cases with bilateral lungs 71.1%, ground-glass opacity 48%, lesion in lungs 78.3%, and enlargement of lymph node 50.7%. Common comorbidities were hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. The estimated median incubation period was 5.36 days, and the overall case fatality rate was 16.9% (Global case fatality outside China was 22.24%: USA 21.24%, Italy 25.61%, and others 0%; whereas the case fatality inside the Hubei Province of China was found to be 11.71%). Global features on the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 obtained from laboratory tests and CT scan results will provide useful information to the physicians to diagnose the disease and for better management of the patients as well as to address the diagnostic challenges to control the infection.
Comparative Studies on Patient Safety Culture to Strengthen Health Systems Among Southeast Asian Countries
Authors: Kang Sunjoo , Ho Trang Thi Thuy , Lee Nam-Ju
Published: January 2021

Patient safety is an important issue in health systems worldwide. A systematic review of previous studies on patient safety culture in Southeast Asian countries is necessary for South Korea's partnership with these countries, especially given South Korea's assistance in strengthening the health systems of these developing countries. Studies on patient safety culture in Southeast Asian countries, published in English and Thai languages, were retrieved from computerized databases using keywords through a manual search. Data extraction, quality assessment, and analyses were performed using several tools. The review included 21 studies conducted in Indonesia (n = 8), Thailand (n = 5), Malaysia (n = 3), Vietnam (n = 2), Singapore (n = 1), and the Philippines (n = 1). They were analyzed and categorized into 12 dimensions of safety culture, and differences in response rate or scores were identified compared to the mean of the dimensions. The heterogeneous of safety culture's situation among Southeast Asian countries, both in practice and in research, can be explained since patient safety policy and its application are not prioritized as much as they are in developed countries in the priority compared to the developed countries. However, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos are the priority countries for South Korea's official healthcare development assistance in the Southeast Asia region. Vietnam, for instance, is an economically transitioning country; therefore, consolidated patient safety improvement by inducing patient safety culture in the provincial and central health system as well as strengthening project formulation to contribute to health policy formation are needed for sustainable development of the partner countries' health systems. It is recommended that more evidence-based proactive project planning and implementation be conducted to integrate patient safety culture into the health systems of developing countries, toward health policy on patient safety and quality service for the attainment of sustainable development goals in South Korea's development cooperation.
Acceptance of Industrial Collaborative Robots by People With Disabilities in Sheltered Workshops
Authors: Drolshagen Sandra , Pfingsthorn Max , Gliesche Pascal , Hein Andreas
Published: January 2021

The integration of people with disabilities into the working world is an important, yet challenging field of research. While different inclusion efforts exist, people with disabilities are still under-represented in the open labor market. This paper investigates the approach of using a collaborative robot arm to support people with disabilities with their reintegration into the workplace. However, there is currently little literature about the acceptance of an industrial robot by people with disabilities and in cases where a robot leads to stress, fear, or any other form of discomfort, this approach is not feasible. For this reason, a first user study was performed in a sheltered workshop to investigate the acceptance of a robot arm by workers with disabilities. As a first step in this underdeveloped field, two main aspects were covered. Firstly, the reaction and familiarization to the robot arm within a study situation was closely examined in order to separate any effects that were not caused by the moving robot. Secondly, the reaction toward the robot arm during collaboration was investigated. In doing so, five different distances between the robot arm and the participants were considered to make collaboration in the workplace as pleasant as possible. The results revealed that it took the participants about 20 min to get used to the situation, while the robot was immediately accepted very well and did not cause fear or discomfort at any time. Surprisingly, in some cases, short distances were accepted even better than the larger distances. For these reasons, the presented approach showed to promise for future investigations.
Populism Is Always Gendered and Dangerous
Authors: Mostov Julie
Published: January 2021

This article argues that populism is always gendered and dangerous to women and democracy. The distinctive reliance on the polarization of “us” and “them” in populism draws on nationalist notions of exclusive belonging, the need for closure to protect the “us” from would be infiltrators, and observance of proscribed gendered roles to ensure the continued rule of the majority (race/ethno-nation). The reproduction of the “us” is too crucial to leave unregulated, and gendered bodies are too vulnerable to violation and occupation to go without vigilance, that is, without surveillance and demographic policing. Gendered narratives support the anti-immigration features of populism and its curbs on democratic institutions, both in the service of national recovery and in its identification of potentially disloyal, suspect voices within the demos.
Earthworm Inoculation Improves Upland Rice Crop Yield and Other Agrosystem Services in Madagascar
Authors: Ratsiatosika Onja , Razafindrakoto Malalatiana , Razafimbelo Tantely , Rabenarivo Michel , Becquer Thierry , Bernard Laetitia , Trap Jean , Blanchart Eric
Published: January 2021

The effects of earthworm inoculation and cropping systems on upland rice systems were examined over a four-year period in the Highlands of Madagascar. Each year, endogeic earthworms Pontoscolex corethrurus (Rhinodrilidae) were inoculated (EW+) at a density of 75 ind m−2 or were not inoculated (EW0). Inoculation was tested in three cropping systems: conservation agriculture (CA) and traditional tillage with or without residues restitution. Soil and plant properties were measured during the first three years while soil biological properties were assessed at the fourth year. At the end of the experiment, earthworm density was three-fold higher in EW+ than in EW0, demonstrating the success of the inoculation. Earthworm density was more important in CA than in tillage systems. Earthworm inoculation had higher significant effects on soil and plant properties than cropping systems. Earthworm inoculation had positive effects on soil macroaggregation (+43%), aboveground biomass (+27%), rice grain yield (+45%), and N grain amount (+43%). Intensifying earthworm activity in field conditions to meet the challenge of ecological transition is supported by our study.
Comparative Analysis of Energy and GHG Emissions Using Fixed and Variable Fertilization Rates
Authors: Kazlauskas Marius , Bručienė Indrė , Jasinskas Algirdas , Šarauskis Egidijus
Published: January 2021

Reducing the overuse of mineral fertilizers in crop production is a key factor related to healthier soil, healthier food, and more economical, efficient, and cleaner agricultural production. The aim of this study was to investigate and to compare the effects of fixed and variable rate fertilization with fertilizer consumption, energy consumption, and environmental impact. A 4-year experimental field study using crop rotation of four plants (spring barley, winter oilseed rape, winter wheat, and faba bean) was performed. Fertilization with phosphorus and potassium at a variable rate were performed and applied based on the soil properties analyzed before the start of the research and completion of the fertilization maps. Nitrogen fertilization was performed by additional fertilization using a proximal N-sensor, which gives the accurate nitrogen uptake in plants in real-time. This was followed by a comparative evaluation analysis of variables and conventional fixed-rate fertilization methods to assess fertilizer consumption, energy consumption, environmental impact, and economic efficiency. The results of the study showed that an application of a variable fertilization rate can reduce the total amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers by 24.9%, energy consumption by 3463.1 kg ha−1, and emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) by 341.5 kg CO2eq ha−1 compared to fixed fertilization rate. The method of fertilization with a variable application rate reduced the costs of fertilization, and at the same time, the costs of the total plant production by €168.0 ha−1, on average.
Biological Sound vs. Anthropogenic Noise: Assessment of Behavioural Changes in Scyliorhinus canicula Exposed to Boats Noise
Authors: de Vincenzi Giovanni , Micarelli Primo , Viola Salvatore , Buffa Gaspare , Sciacca Virginia , Maccarrone Vincenzo , Corrias Valentina , Reinero Francesca Romana , Giacoma Cristina , Filiciotto Francesco
Published: January 2021

Despite the growing interest in human-made noise effects on marine wildlife, few studies have investigated the potential role of underwater noise on elasmobranch species. In this study, twelve specimens of small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula) were exposed to biological and anthropogenic sounds in order to assess their behavioural changes in response to prey acoustic stimuli and to different amplitude levels of shipping noise. The sharks, individually held in aquariums, were exposed to four experimental acoustic conditions characterized by different spectral (Hz) components and amplitude (dB re 1 µPa) levels. The swimming behaviour and spatial distribution of sharks were observed. The results highlighted significant differences in swimming time and in the spatial use of the aquarium among the experimental conditions. When the amplitude levels of biological sources were higher than those of anthropogenic sources, the sharks’ swimming behaviour was concentrated in the bottom sections of the aquarium; when the amplitude levels of anthropogenic sources were higher than biological ones, the specimens increased the time spent swimming. Moreover, their spatial distribution highlighted a tendency to occupy the least noisy sections of the aquarium. In conclusion, this study highlighted that anthropogenic noise is able to affect behaviour of catshark specimens and the impact depends on acoustic amplitude levels.
An Easy-Implemented On-Chip Waveguide Coupled Single Photon Source Based on Self-Assembled Quantum Dots Membrane
Authors: Jiang Ping , Ma Na , Liu Peng , Wu Wenxuan , Zhang Kai
Published: January 2021

In recent years, many groups and institutions have been committed to the research of integrated quantum photonic circuit technologies, of which the key components are waveguide coupled single photon sources. In this study, we propose an on-chip waveguide-coupled single photon source that is easily implemented as the waveguide is directly made from the quantum dot membrane. In order to scatter light out of the on-chip waveguide plane into the detection apparatus, grating output couplers are made at both ends of the waveguide. The photon statistics of the on-chip photon source were investigated by second-order correlation function g(2)(τ) measurements using a Hanbury Brown and Twiss interferometer. From the spectra and cross-correlation experiments by collecting emission at the point of quantum dot and out coupler, the emitting of single photons from the same quantum dot and propagating via the waveguide to the out couplers was confirmed. These results show that we have achieved an on-chip single photon source that is easily implemented and easily integrated into quantum photonic circuits.
On the Optimal Synthesis of a Finger Rehabilitation Slider-Crank-Based Device with a Prescribed Real Trajectory: Motion Specifications and Design Process
Authors: Zapatero-Gutiérrez Araceli , Castillo-Castañeda Eduardo , Laribi Med Amine
Published: January 2021

This article discusses the mechanical redesign of a finger rehabilitation device based on a slider-crank mechanism. The redesign proposal is to obtain a smaller and more portable device that can recreate the motion trajectories of a finger. The real finger motion trajectories were recorded using a motion capture system. The article focused on the optimal synthesis of the rehabilitation device mechanism formulated as a classic trajectory generation problem. The proposed approach was combined with the recorded finger movements and solved using the genetic algorithm (GA) method. Optimization criteria and constraints were successively formulated and solved using a mono-objective function.
Trace Element Levels in Native Plant Species around the Industrial Site of Puchuncaví-Ventanas (Central Chile): Evaluation of the Phytoremediation Potential
Authors: Salmani-Ghabeshi Soroush , Fadic-Ruiz Ximena , Miró-Rodríguez Conrado , Pinilla-Gil Eduardo , Cereceda-Balic Francisco
Published: January 2021

The present work investigates the uptake of selected trace elements (Cu, Sb, As, Pb, Cd, Zn, Cr, Mn, Ni, V, and Co) from soil and their accumulation in the biomass samples (leaves and flowers) of three selected native plants (namely Oenothera picensis, OP; Sphaeralcea velutina, SV; and Argemone subfusiformis, AS) around an industrial area (Puchuncaví-Ventanas) located in the Puchuncaví valley, in the central region of Chile. Primary emission sources in the area come from a copper refinery, coal-fired power plants, and a set of 14 other different industrial facilities. Trace element measurements in the native plants of this area and the ability to transfer of these pollutants from soil to plants (transfer factor) have been assessed in order to identify the potential use of these plant species for phytoremediation. Preliminary results showed a high concentration of trace elements in the OP, SV, and AS samples. The concentration of these elements in the plants was found to be inversely correlated to the distance of the primary emission sources. Moreover, the high concentrations of trace elements such as Cu, As, Cr and V, upon the toxic limits in the native plant species, suggest the need for continuous monitoring of the region. The OP species was identified as the plant with the highest capacity for trace elements accumulation, which also showed higher accumulation potential in whole aerial parts than in leaves. Transfer factor values suggested that these native plants had phytoremediation potential for the elements Cu, Pb, As, Ni, and Cr. This study provides preliminary baseline information on the trace element compositions of important native plants and soil in the Puchuncaví-Ventanas area for phytoremediation purposes.
Through-Life Maintenance Cost of Digital Avionics
Authors: Raza Ahmed , Ulansky Vladimir
Published: January 2021

Modern avionics can account for around 30% of the total cost of the aircraft. Therefore, it is essential to reduce the operational cost of avionics during a lifetime. This article addresses the critical scientific problem of creating the appropriate maintenance models for digital avionics systems that significantly increase their operational effectiveness. In this research, we propose the lifecycle cost equations to select the best option for the maintenance of digital avionics. The proposed cost equations consider permanent failures, intermittent faults, and false-positives occurred during the flight. The lifecycle cost equations are determined for the warranty and the post-warranty interval of aircraft operation. We model several maintenance options for each period of service. The cost equations consider the characteristics of the permanent failures and intermittent faults, conditional probabilities of in-flight false-positive and true-positive as well as the cost of different maintenance operations, duration of the flight, and some other parameters. We have demonstrated that a three-level post-warranty maintenance variant with a detector of intermittent faults is the best because it minimizes the total expected maintenance cost several folds compared to other maintenance options.
Laser Scanning versus Wide-Field—Choosing the Appropriate Microscope in Life Sciences
Authors: Schneckenburger Herbert , Richter Verena
Published: January 2021

Methods and applications of light microscopy in the life sciences are compared with respect to 3D imaging, resolution, light exposure, sensitivity, and recording time. While conventional wide-field or laser scanning microscopy appear appropriate for smaller samples of only a few micrometers in size with a limited number of light exposures, light sheet microscopy appears to be an optimal method for larger 3D cell cultures, biopsies, or small organisms if multiple exposures or long measuring periods are desired. Super-resolution techniques should be considered in the context of high light exposure possibly causing photobleaching and photo-toxicity to living specimens.
Simultaneous Monitoring of Particle-Bound PAHs Inside a Low-Energy School Building and Outdoors over Two Weeks in France
Authors: Liaud Céline , Chouvenc Sarah , Le Calvé Stéphane
Published: January 2021

The emergence of new super-insulated buildings to reduce energy consumption can lead to a degradation of the indoor air quality. While some studies were carried out to assess the air quality in these super-insulated buildings, they were usually focused on the measurement of gas phase pollutants such as carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds. This work reports the first measurements of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) associated with particles as a function of time and particle size in a low-energy building. The airborne particles were collected indoors and outdoors over three to four days of sampling using two three-stage cascade impactors allowing to sample simultaneously particles with aerodynamic diameter Dae > 10 µm, 2.5 µm < Dae < 10 µm, 1 µm < Dae < 2.5 µm, and Dae < 1 µm. The 16 US-EPA priority PAHs were then extracted and quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled to fluorescence detection. The resulting total particle concentrations were low, in the ranges 3.73 to 9.66 and 0.60 to 8.83 µg m-3 for indoors and outdoors, respectively. Thirteen PAHs were always detected in all the samples. The total PAH concentrations varied between 290 and 415 pg m−3 depending on the particle size, the environment (indoors or outdoors) and the sampling period considered. More interestingly, the temporal variations of individual PAHs highlighted that high molecular weight PAHs were mainly associated to the finest particles and some of them exhibited similar temporal behaviors, suggesting a common emission source. The indoor-to-outdoor concentration ratios of individual PAH were usually found close to or less than 1, except during the event combining rainy conditions and limited indoor ventilation rate.
Application of Artificial Intelligence for Medical Research
Authors: Hamamoto Ryuji
Published: January 2021

The Human Genome Project, completed in 2003 by an international consortium, is considered one of the most important achievements for mankind in the 21st century [...]
Slump in Hospital Admissions for Stroke, a Fact of an Uncertain Nature That Requires Explanation
Authors: Ramírez-Moreno José M. , Portilla-Cuenca Juan Carlos , Hariramani-Ramchandani Roshan , Rebollo Belen , Bermejo Casado Inés , Macías-Sedas Pablo , Ceberino David , Roa-Montero Ana M. , González-Plata Alberto , Casado Ignacio , Fernández de Alarcón Luis
Published: January 2021

(1) Background: The impact of the health crisis caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has provoked collateral effects in the attention to pathologies with time-dependent treatments such as strokes. We compare the healthcare activity of two stroke units in the same periods of 2019 and 2020, with an emphasis on what happened during the state of alarm (SA). (2) Materials and methods. Hospitals in the region implemented contingency plans to contain the pandemic; in this planning, the stroke units were not limited in their operational capacity. The SA was declared on 15 March and remained in place for 10 weeks. For the analysis, the data were grouped by consecutive calendar weeks. (3) Results. When the SA was declared the number of calls to the emergency telephone went from 1225 to 3908 calls per week (318% increase). However, the activation of the stroke code went from 6.6 to 5.0 (p = 0.04) and the activity in both stroke units decreased. The largest drop in hospitalizations was for transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) with 35.7% less, 28 vs. 18, (p = 0.05). Reperfusion therapies fell by 37.5%; Poisson regression model 0.64; (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.43–0.95). The overall activity of the telestroke suffered a reduction of 28.9%. We also observed an increase in hospital mortality. (4) Conclusion. The excessive duration of the pandemic precludes any hope of resolving this public health crisis in the short or medium term. Further studies should be conducted to better understand the multifactorial nature of this dramatic decline in stroke admissions and its negative impact.
The Deficit of Multimodal Perception of Congruent and Non-Congruent Fearful Expressions in Patients with Schizophrenia: The ERP Study
Authors: Portnova Galina , Maslennikova Aleksandra , Zakharova Natalya , Martynova Olga
Published: January 2021

Emotional dysfunction, including flat affect and emotional perception deficits, is a specific symptom of schizophrenia disorder. We used a modified multimodal odd-ball paradigm with fearful facial expressions accompanied by congruent and non-congruent emotional vocalizations (sounds of women screaming and laughing) to investigate the impairment of emotional perception and reactions to other people’s emotions in schizophrenia. We compared subjective ratings of emotional state and event-related potentials (EPPs) in response to congruent and non-congruent stimuli in patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls. The results showed the altered multimodal perception of fearful stimuli in patients with schizophrenia. The amplitude of N50 was significantly higher for non-congruent stimuli than congruent ones in the control group and did not differ in patients. The P100 and N200 amplitudes were higher in response to non-congruent stimuli in patients than in controls, implying impaired sensory gating in schizophrenia. The observed decrease of P3a and P3b amplitudes in patients could be associated with less attention, less emotional arousal, or incorrect interpretation of emotional valence, as patients differed from healthy controls in the emotion scores of non-congruent stimuli. The difficulties in identifying the incoherence of facial and audial components of emotional expression could be significant in understanding the psychopathology of schizophrenia.
Effects of Sleep on the Academic Performance of Children with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Villalba-Heredia Lorena , Rodríguez Celestino , Santana Zaira , Areces Débora , Méndez-Giménez Antonio
Published: January 2021

Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly associated with disordered or disturbed sleep and the association of sleep problems with ADHD is complex and multidirectional. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between sleep and academic performance, comparing children with ADHD and a control group without ADHD. Academic performance in Spanish, mathematics, and a foreign language (English) was evaluated. Different presentations of ADHD were considered as well as the potential difference between weekday and weekend sleep habits. The sample consisted of 75 children aged 6–12 in primary education. Accelerometry was used to study sleep, and school grades were used to gather information about academic performance. The results showed that ADHD influenced the amount of sleep during weekends, the time getting up at the weekends, weekday sleep efficiency, as well as academic performance. Given the effects that were seen in the variables linked to the weekend, it is necessary to consider a longitudinal design with which to determine if there is a cause and effect relationship.
Aberrant Dyskerin Expression Is Related to Proliferation and Poor Survival in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Alnafakh Rafah , Saretzki Gabriele , Midgley Angela , Flynn James , Kamal Areege M. , Dobson Lucy , Natarajan Purushothaman , Stringfellow Helen , Martin-Hirsch Pierre , DeCruze Shandya B. , Coupland Sarah E. , Hapangama Dharani K.
Published: January 2021

Dyskerin is a core-component of the telomerase holo-enzyme, which elongates telomeres. Telomerase is involved in endometrial epithelial cell proliferation. Most endometrial cancers (ECs) have high telomerase activity; however, dyskerin expression in human healthy endometrium or in endometrial pathologies has not been investigated yet. We aimed to examine the expression, prognostic relevance, and functional role of dyskerin in human EC. Endometrial samples from a cohort of 175 women were examined with immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and qPCR. The EC cells were transfected with Myc-DDK-DKC1 plasmid and the effect of dyskerin overexpression on EC cell proliferation was assessed by flow cytometry. Human endometrium expresses dyskerin (DKC1) and dyskerin protein levels are significantly reduced in ECs when compared with healthy postmenopausal endometrium. Low dyskerin immunoscores were potentially associated with worse outcomes, suggesting a possible prognostic relevance. Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) ECs dataset (n = 589) was also interrogated. The TCGA dataset further confirmed changes in DKC1 expression in EC with prognostic significance. Transient dyskerin overexpression had a negative effect on EC cell proliferation. Our data demonstrates a role for dyskerin in normal endometrium for the first time and confirms aberrant expression with possible prognostic relevance in EC. Interventions aimed at modulating dyskerin levels may provide novel therapeutic options in EC.
Immune Functions of Signaling Lymphocytic Activation Molecule Family Molecules in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Ishibashi Mariko , Morita Rimpei , Tamura Hideto
Published: January 2021

The signaling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAM) family receptors are expressed on various immune cells and malignant plasma cells in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. In immune cells, most SLAM family molecules bind to themselves to transmit co-stimulatory signals through the recruiting adaptor proteins SLAM-associated protein (SAP) or Ewing’s sarcoma-associated transcript 2 (EAT-2), which target immunoreceptor tyrosine-based switch motifs in the cytoplasmic regions of the receptors. Notably, SLAMF2, SLAMF3, SLAMF6, and SLAMF7 are strongly and constitutively expressed on MM cells that do not express the adaptor proteins SAP and EAT-2. This review summarizes recent studies on the expression and biological functions of SLAM family receptors during the malignant progression of MM and the resulting preclinical and clinical research involving four SLAM family receptors. A better understanding of the relationship between SLAM family receptors and MM disease progression may lead to the development of novel immunotherapies for relapse prevention.
Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Cr(VI) Reduction by Lead Molybdate Wrapped with D-A Conjugated Polymer under Visible Light
Authors: Liu Ding , Wang Yin , Xu Xiao , Xiang Yonggang , Yang Zixin , Wang Pei
Published: January 2021

Well-designed composite photocatalysts are of increasing concern due to their enhanced catalytic performance compared to a single component. Here, a photocatalyst composed of PbMoO4 (PMO) and poly-benzothiadiazole (BBT, a D-A-conjugated polymer) was successfully synthesized by BBT polymerization on the surface of the PMO. The resultant BBT-PMO with a heterojunction structure represented an enhanced ability to reduce highly toxic heavy metal Cr(VI) from water under visible light irradiation. The 16.7% BBT-PMO(N, nanoscale) showed the best performance. The corresponding kobs over the 16.7% BBT-PMO(N) was 26-fold (or 53-fold) of that over the pure BBT (or pristine PMO(N)), and this activity was maintained after four cycles. The reasons for its good performance are discussed in detail based on the experimental results. Moreover, the synthesis of the BBT in situ of the PMO also altered the morphology of the BBT component, increasing the specific surface area of the BBT-PMO(N) and endowing it with the ability to adsorb Cr(VI). Additionally, the photocatalyst was also environmentally friendly as such a wrapped structure could sustain the high stability of the PMO without dissociation. This work provides a good strategy for efficient photocatalytic Cr(VI) reduction by designing an organic–inorganic hybrid system with high redox capacity.
Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of RhB by Constructing Sn3O4 Nanoflakes on Sulfur-Doped NaTaO3 Nanocubes
Authors: Chang Sujie , Sang Yuanhua , Liu Hong
Published: January 2021

Band structure engineering and heterojunction photocatalyst construction are efficient approaches to improve the separation of photo-induced electrons and holes, along with enhancing light response ability. By sulfur doping, sodium tantalite (NaTaO3) showed an improved photocatalytic property for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). Sn3O4 nanoflakes were constructed on the surface of NaTaO3 nanocubes, forming a surface heterostructure via a simple hydrothermal process, initially. This heterostructure endows the photocatalyst with an enhanced charge separation rate, resulting in an improved photocatalytic degradation of RhB. Moreover, a possible mechanism over Sn3O4/NaTaO3 and the photodegradation pathway of RhB were proposed as the combined effect of photo-induced electrons and holes. This facile process for band structure engineering and heterostructure construction provides the possibility for the practical application of high-efficiency photocatalysts.
Atypical Fibroxanthoma-Like Amelanotic Melanoma: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Cazzato Gerardo , Colagrande Anna , Cimmino Antonella , Liguori Giovanni , Lettini Teresa , Serio Gabriella , Ingravallo Giuseppe , Marzullo Andrea
Published: January 2021

Atypical fibroxanthoma-like amelanotic melanoma is a very rare variant of melanoma that can, if not correctly recognized and framed, lead to diagnostic errors that can potentially cause problems of extreme relevance to patients. Correct knowledge of this entity and the execution of adequate immunohistochemical investigations are the basic conditions for the correct management of this lesion. We report on a case of atypical fibroxanthoma-like amelanotic melanoma, which clinically simulated a fibrohistiocytic lesion, and which created differential diagnostic problems, and finally, we conduct a short review of the literature.
Simulated Radiation Dose Reduction in Whole-Body CT on a 3rd Generation Dual-Source Scanner: An Intraindividual Comparison
Authors: Brendlin Andreas S. , Winkelmann Moritz T. , Do Phuong Linh , Schwarze Vincent , Peisen Felix , Almansour Haidara , Bongers Malte N. , Artzner Christoph P. , Weiss Jakob , Kim Jong Hyo , Othman Ahmed E. , Afat Saif
Published: January 2021

To evaluate the effect of radiation dose reduction on image quality and diagnostic confidence in contrast-enhanced whole-body computed tomography (WBCT) staging. We randomly selected March 2016 for retrospective inclusion of 18 consecutive patients (14 female, 60 ± 15 years) with clinically indicated WBCT staging on the same 3rd generation dual-source CT. Using low-dose simulations, we created data sets with 100, 80, 60, 40, and 20% of the original radiation dose. Each set was reconstructed using filtered back projection (FBP) and Advanced Modeled Iterative Reconstruction (ADMIRE®, Siemens Healthineers, Forchheim, Germany) strength 1–5, resulting in 540 datasets total. ADMIRE 2 was the reference standard for intraindividual comparison. The effective radiation dose was calculated using commercially available software. For comparison of objective image quality, noise assessments of subcutaneous adipose tissue regions were performed automatically using the software. Three radiologists blinded to the study evaluated image quality and diagnostic confidence independently on an equidistant 5-point Likert scale (1 = poor to 5 = excellent). At 100%, the effective radiation dose in our population was 13.3 ± 9.1 mSv. At 20% radiation dose, it was possible to obtain comparably low noise levels when using ADMIRE 5 (p = 1.000, r = 0.29). We identified ADMIRE 3 at 40% radiation dose (5.3 ± 3.6 mSv) as the lowest achievable radiation dose with image quality and diagnostic confidence equal to our reference standard (p = 1.000, r > 0.4). The inter-rater agreement for this result was almost perfect (ICC ≥ 0.958, 95% CI 0.909–0.983). On a 3rd generation scanner, it is feasible to maintain good subjective image quality, diagnostic confidence, and image noise in single-energy WBCT staging at dose levels as low as 40% of the original dose (5.3 ± 3.6 mSv), when using ADMIRE 3.
Constraint Closure Drove Major Transitions in the Origins of Life
Authors: Lehman Niles E. , Kauffman Stuart. A.
Published: January 2021

Life is an epiphenomenon for which origins are of tremendous interest to explain. We provide a framework for doing so based on the thermodynamic concept of work cycles. These cycles can create their own closure events, and thereby provide a mechanism for engendering novelty. We note that three significant such events led to life as we know it on Earth: (1) the advent of collective autocatalytic sets (CASs) of small molecules; (2) the advent of CASs of reproducing informational polymers; and (3) the advent of CASs of polymerase replicases. Each step could occur only when the boundary conditions of the system fostered constraints that fundamentally changed the phase space. With the realization that these successive events are required for innovative forms of life, we may now be able to focus more clearly on the question of life’s abundance in the universe.
Zoom in on Dry Joy—Dissensus, Agonism and Democracy in Art Education
Authors: Skregelid Lisbet
Published: January 2021

Literature on art education often emphasizes dialogue as a preferred approach and as a way of practicing democratic education in museums and galleries. Dialogue-based tours in such contexts are often characterized by a sense of harmony and agreement. In contrast, this article discusses the democratic aspect and political potentiality when dissensus and agonism are used as central educational strategies. The point of departure for the discussion was a teaching session on the online platform Zoom with student teachers as part of their module on art and crafts at the University of Agder in Kristiansand, Norway, in spring 2020. Artworks from the exhibition Dry Joy, in Sørlandet Art Museum, by Finnish photographer Iiu Susiraja, were the pivot point in the session. Before the lockdown caused by COVID-19, the exhibition caused intense debates. The strong reactions were particularly prevalent amongst parents whose children had witnessed the exhibition as part of a school trip. A central part of the teaching session was encouraging students to come up with and explore arguments both for and against exposure of school children to these images. This article aims to contribute to knowledge about how educational strategies that challenge consensus may enable democratic arenas beyond hegemony.
Dynamic Co-Cultivation Process of Corynebacterium glutamicum Strains for the Fermentative Production of Riboflavin
Authors: Pérez-García Fernando , Burgardt Arthur , Kallman Dina R. , Wendisch Volker F. , Bar Nadav
Published: January 2021

Residual streams from lignocellulosic processes contain sugar mixtures of glucose, xylose, and mannose. Here, the industrial workhorse Corynebacterium glutamicum was explored as a research platform for the rational utilization of a multiple sugar substrate. The endogenous manA gene was overexpressed to enhance mannose utilization. The overexpression of the xylA gene from Xanthomonas campestris in combination with the endogenous xylB gene enabled xylose consumption by C. glutamicum. Furthermore, riboflavin production was triggered by overexpressing the sigH gene from C. glutamicum. The resulting strains were studied during batch fermentations in flasks and 2 L lab-scale bioreactors separately using glucose, mannose, xylose, and a mixture of these three sugars as a carbon source. The production of riboflavin and consumption of sugars were improved during fed-batch fermentation thanks to a dynamic inoculation strategy of manA overexpressing strain and xylAB overexpressing strain. The final riboflavin titer, yield, and volumetric productivity from the sugar mixture were 27 mg L−1, 0.52 mg g−1, and 0.25 mg L−1 h−1, respectively. It reached a 56% higher volumetric productivity with 45% less by-product formation compared with an equivalent process inoculated with a single strain overexpressing the genes xylAB and manA combined. The results indicate the advantages of dynamic multi strains processes for the conversion of sugar mixtures.
Oral Health of Children from the SOS Children’s Village in Croatia
Authors: Ivanisevic Zrinka , Uzarevic Zvonimir , Lesic Stjepanka , Vcev Aleksandar , Matijevic Marko
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was to determine the values of DMFT/DMFS and dft/dfs in the examined groups of children and the assessment of the mothers of the examined groups of children related to the oral health of their children. The research included children from the SOS Children’s Village in Croatia as well as children from biological families from rural and urban areas. The children were examined by the visual–tactile method according to the standardized World Health Organization criteria. dft/DMFT and dfs/DMFS indices were calculated. An analysis of completed questionnaires was made. The children from the SOS Children’s Village demonstrated the lowest mean values of the dft/dfs (2.42/3.31) and DMFT/DMFS (1.61/2.23) indices compared to children from rural and urban areas. The Kruskal–Wallis test showed a significant difference (p = 0.01) in SiC index values between the examined children. In the groups of children from the SOS Children’s Village and from the rural area compared to the children from the urban area, oral hygiene was singled out as the most important factor in the analysis of the main components. An equally significant factor for all the respondents is the assessment of oral health and eating habits. The least significant factor for the group of children from the SOS Children’s Village is socio-economic status, which is the most significant for the children from the urban area. The children from the SOS Children’s village have the lowest dft/DMFT, dfs/DMFS, and SiC indices. The most important factor influencing oral health in the group of children from the SOS Children’s Village that stands out is oral hygiene, and the least important is the socio-economic status. The assessment of oral health by the SOS mothers does not differ from the assessment of biological mothers of children from rural and urban areas.
Factors Associated with Refusal or Discontinuation of Treatment in Patients with Bladder Cancer: A Cohort Population-Based Study in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Nai-Tan , Chang Ying-Hsu , Huang Yu-Tung , Chen Shu-Ching
Published: January 2021

Cancer treatment causes adverse effects that lead to refusal or discontinuation of treatment. The purposes of this study were to identify 1) the factors associated with and 2) the reasons for refusing and discontinuing treatment in patients with bladder cancer (BC). We conducted a retrospective cohort study in patients diagnosed with BC in Taiwan from 1 January 2014 to 30 June 2019 using a linked cancer registry database. Of the 1247 BC patients in the study cohort, 2.1% reported refusing treatment. Patients with less education and those diagnosed at cancer stage II–IV were more likely to refuse treatment. The major reason for refusing treatment was “patient or the family considered patient’s poor physical condition (chronic disease or unstable systemic disease), difficulty in enduring any condition likely to cause physical discomfort from disease treatment”. A total of 4.3% of BC patients reported discontinuing treatment. Patients not living in the northern region of Taiwan and those diagnosed at cancer stage II–IV were more likely to terminate treatment before completion. The major reason given for discontinuing treatment was inconvenient transportation. Sufficient social resources and supportive care can help BC patients cope with the physical and psychological burden of treatment.