bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of wearing a surgical and cloth mask during cycle exercise
Authors: Doherty Connor J. , Mann Leah M. , Angus Sarah A. , Chan Jason S. , Molgat-Seon Yannick , Dominelli Paolo B.
Published: May 2021

We sought to determine the impact of wearing cloth or surgical masks on the cardiopulmonary responses to moderate-intensity exercise. Twelve subjects (n = 5 females) completed three, 8-min cycling trials while breathing through a non-rebreathing valve (laboratory control), cloth, or surgical mask. Heart rate (HR), oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO2), breathing frequency, mouth pressure, partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide (PetCO2) and oxygen (PetO2), dyspnea were measured throughout exercise. A subset of n = 6 subjects completed an additional exercise bout without a mask (ecological control). There were no differences in breathing frequency, HR or SpO2 across conditions (all p > 0.05). Compared with the laboratory control (4.7 ± 0.9 cmH2O [mean ± SD]), mouth pressure swings were smaller with the surgical mask (0.9 ± 0.7; p < 0.0001), but similar with the cloth mask (3.6 ± 4.8 cmH2O; p = 0.66). Wearing a cloth mask decreased PetO2 (−3.5 ± 3.7 mm Hg) and increased PetCO2 (+2.0 ± 1.3 mm Hg) relative to the ecological control (both p < 0.05). There were no differences in end-tidal gases between mask conditions and laboratory control (both p > 0.05). Dyspnea was similar between the control conditions and the surgical mask (p > 0.05) but was greater with the cloth mask compared with laboratory (+0.9 ± 1.2) and ecological (+1.5 ± 1.3) control conditions (both p < 0.05). Wearing a mask during short-term moderate-intensity exercise may increase dyspnea but has minimal impact on the cardiopulmonary response.

Novelty: Wearing surgical or cloth masks during exercise has no impact on breathing frequency, tidal volume, oxygenation, and heart rate However, there are some changes in inspired and expired gas fractions that are physiologically irrelevant. In young healthy individuals, wearing surgical or cloth masks during submaximal exercise has few physiological consequences.
Increased snow and cold season temperatures alter High Arctic parasitic fungi – host plant interactions
Authors: Moriana-Armendariz Mikel , Abbandonato Holly , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Mörsdorf Martin A. , Aares Karoline H. , Semenchuk Philipp R. , Tojo Motoaki , Cooper Elisabeth J.
Published: May 2021

In the Arctic, fungal mycelial growth takes place mainly during the cold season and beginning of growing season. Climate change induced increases of cold season temperatures may, hence, benefit fungal growth and increase their abundance. This is of particular importance for parasitic fungi, which may significantly shape Arctic vegetation composition. Here, we studied two contrasting plant parasitic fungi’s occurrences (biotrophic Exobasidium hypogenum Nannf. on the vascular plant Cassiope tetragona (L.) D. Don., and necrotrophic Pythium polare Tojo, van West & Hoshino on the moss Sanionia uncinata (Hedw.) Loeske) in response to increased snow depth, a method primarily used to increase cold season temperatures, after 7–13 years of snow manipulation in Adventdalen, Svalbard. We show that enhanced snow depth increased occurrences of both fungi tested here and indicate that increased fungal infections of host plants were at least partly responsible for decreases of host occurrences. Although bryophyte growth, in general, may be influenced by increased soil moisture and reduced competition from vascular plants, Pythium polare is likely enhanced by the combination of milder winter temperatures and moister environment provided by the snow. The relationships between host plants and fungal infection indicate ongoing processes involved in the dynamics of compositional adjustment to changing climate.
Origin and evolution of unconformities in a continental rift basin: a case study from the Lishu Depression in Songliao Basin, China
Authors: Wang Hongyu , Li Ruilei , Zhu Jianfeng , Yang Xiongbing
Published: May 2021

A variety of unconformity types are commonly developed during the rifting of a continental basin. Identifying their origin and evolution is a prerequisite to understanding the complex tectono-sedimentary evolution of the basin and to evaluate the basin’s oil and gas resources. Based on the 2D/3D seismic, geophysical logging, and subsurface lithological data, the unconformities within the rift layer of the Lishu Depression in the Songliao Basin are identified as disconformities, nonconformities, and four “types” of angular unconformities. Their evolution and origin are analyzed by associating the unconformities with the basin’s tectonic evolution. The results show that the rifting of the Lishu Depression was not a continuous process. Instead, several regional tectonic episodes influenced the basin’s evolution. Episodic compressional events and a phase of extension along the main faults determined the basin configuration and sedimentary fill characteristics of different sub-rifting stages. The tectonic history and related paleogeomorphology changes are the dominant factors in the formation of these different unconformity types. During the rifting process, the type and distribution of unconformity varied. In the initial rifting stage, the basin developed a nonconformity and four types of angular unconformities as the result of both regional uplift and fault block tilt. Rotation and tilting of the fault blocks during the intensive rifting resulted in two types of angular unconformities. Finally, in the recession rifting stage, a different form of angular unconformity and disconformity developed, mainly as a result of the regional uplift and subsequent subsidence.
First mammal from the Willow Creek Formation: a new early Paleocene ptilodontid (Mammalia, Multituberculata) from near Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Authors: Scott Craig S.
Published: May 2021

Although multituberculates are among the best-represented mammals of the Late Cretaceous and early Paleogene in North America, their evolution during the first several tens to hundreds of thousands of years following the Cretaceous–Paleogene (K–Pg) impact event is largely obscure. A better understanding of the early Paleogene record of multituberculates is crucial, for their dominance in early Paleocene mammalian faunas is unquestionably a result of rapid evolution during the immediate post-impact interval, and they accordingly played an important role in the evolution of mammalian communities more generally. I report on a new multituberculate from the early Paleocene of southwestern Alberta, in rocks of the Willow Creek Formation, the first such occurrence in this otherwise poorly known unit. The new multituberculate, Aenigmamys aries gen. et sp. nov., most closely resembles the ptilodontid Kimbetohia campi in comparable parts of the dentition and sheds light on the early evolution of Ptilodontidae, one of the major cimolodontan families that diversified during the Paleocene. The presence of Aenigmamys in mammalian faunas that lived soon after the K–Pg boundary implies a still-deeper evolutionary history for Ptilodontidae that may have extended into the Late Cretaceous. Aenigmamys is part of a new mammalian fauna from southwestern Alberta, the taxonomic composition of which includes a diversity of multituberculates, cimolestans, primates, and condylarths. The fauna correlates with those of middle Puercan age from other parts of the Western Interior of North America, and its high taxonomic diversity further corroborates previous hypotheses that multituberculate recovery — and mammalian recovery more generally — occurred relatively quickly after the K–Pg extinction event.
Cold tolerance varies among invasive populations of the Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea)
Authors: Cvetanovska E. , Castañeda R.A. , Hendry A.P. , Conn D.B. , Ricciardi A.
Published: May 2021

The distribution of the subtropical Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea (O.F. Müller, 1774)), one of the world’s most invasive freshwater molluscs, is reportedly constrained by a lower thermal tolerance limit of 2 °C. Although its occurrence in north temperate regions is typically restricted to artificially heated waterbodies, the species has been found to overwinter in unheated lakes and rivers. In laboratory experiments, we compared the cold tolerance of populations from several geographically distinct sites spanning 35°N to 46°N in eastern North America. Each population contained individuals that fully recovered from 2 months of continuous exposure to near-freezing (1 °C) conditions, contrary to published accounts of C. fluminea’s thermal ecology. Survivorship increased with body size and was enhanced by prior acclimation to a low temperature (10 °C) compared with a higher one (18 °C). When acclimated to 10 °C, clams from northern populations exhibited greater survivorship (55.0% ± 16.1%) than those from southern populations (26.7% ± 19.2%). However, one southern population demonstrated survivorship as great as that of the most tolerant northern population, suggesting that its clams could overwinter in unheated northern waterbodies. Differences among populations indicate either that contemporary evolution has occurred or that developmental plasticity shapes future acclimation responses.
Sequential SEM imaging of microbial calcite precipitation consolidation treatment
Authors: Scherrer Nadim C. , Kocsis Matthias , Dariz Petra , Gervais Claire
Published: May 2021

Cultural heritage built from limestone is prone to deterioration by chemical weathering, a natural process, that is enhanced by pollution. There are many historic monuments built from calcareous rocks that suffer from deterioration, and thus there have been a number of approaches over the last few decades to consolidate these types of rocks and surfaces. Using natural biological processes by fostering the activity of calcite-producing bacteria, also referred to as biomineralization, is one strategy that has also been commercialized. The base of proving the effectiveness of any surface treatment is the observation of the surface at sequential stages before and after treatment, as well as after exposure to weathering. Due to the heterogeneity of natural materials and processes, our aim was to observe identical test areas at the micron scale throughout the observation period. In order to achieve this on a tungsten SEM, we employed a beam deceleration accessory that allowed low kV imaging on non-conductive surfaces at a sufficiently high image resolution with a modified sample holder accommodating drill cores of 25 mm diameter and up to 15 mm height. The presented method is capable of producing time-sequenced images on the same test area on natural rock surface samples without manipulation for imaging purposes. This offers interesting perspectives for effective documentation of such processes in various fields.
Developing MgF2 nanoparticles for improved anti-reflection coating on aspherical lenses
Authors: Kim Jeong Wan , Bae Mun Ki , Park Yeong Min , Song Byung Kwan , Kim Tae Gyu
Published: May 2021

In general, MgF2, which is a low-reflective coating material, has a refractive index of 1.38. The refractive index of a single layer of MgF2 is not sufficient for industrial applications. In this study, an anti-reflection MgF2 coating film with low reflectivity and high wear resistance was synthesized to be used as a single layer with a TEOS binder. The prepared anti-reflection coating film was coated in the form of nanoparticles on a curvature lens having an aspherical surface coefficient by spin coating, and the correlation with optical properties was confirmed through particle size measurement. The MgF2 nanoparticle AR coating film was characterized by LDPSA, UV-Vis, SEM and ellipsometry. Mechanical and optical properties were confirmed with a minimum reflectance of 0.1% or less and a low refractive index of 1.24–1.25.
Orthogonality graphs of real Cayley–Dickson algebras. Part I: Doubly alternative zero divisors and their hexagons
Authors: Zhilina Svetlana
Published: May 2021

We study zero divisors whose components alternate strongly pairwise and construct oriented hexagons in the zero divisor graph of an arbitrary real Cayley–Dickson algebra. In case of the algebras of the main sequence, the zero divisor graph coincides with the orthogonality graph, and any hexagon can be extended to a double hexagon. We determine the multiplication table of the vertices of a double hexagon. Then we find a sufficient condition for three elements to generate an alternative subalgebra of an arbitrary Cayley–Dickson algebra. Finally, we consider those zero divisors whose components are both standard basis elements up to sign. We classify them and determine necessary and sufficient conditions under which two such elements are orthogonal.
What Makes for Successful Innovation Teams in Small and Medium Enterprises? A Multiple Case Study
Authors: Martínez-Moreno Edurn , Díaz Virginia , da Costa Silvia , Páez Darío , Mindeguia Rosa
Published: May 2021

This study explores how training of facilitators and coordinators can promote the creation of high-performing innovation teams in SMEs, and analyzes why some trained teams are successful and others are not. Within a participatory action research framework, eight innovation teams were newly created in six SMEs in the Spanish service sector and were followed up over six months. Facilitators and coordinators underwent 12 h of training prior to creating new innovation teams in their own organizations, whose work was followed up over six months. Team processes and results were analyzed based on both quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (interviews, incident diaries, and open questions) data that were gathered longitudinally across the study period. Our results showed that, despite complaints about poor management of face-to-face meetings, difficulties in the use of information and communication technologies and work overload are surmountable. The greatest barrier for innovation teams is a lack of commitment on the part of top managers and low involvement and participation by team members. Reflexivity, both inside and outside the team (i.e. in follow up sessions), was one of the most valued and useful strategies for innovation teams. Our findings highlight the importance of training programs that can provide both technical and emotional support to team facilitators and coordinators and enable SMEs to create high-performing innovation teams despite their limited financial and human resources.
Experimental Study of Microvascular Anastomosis: Comparison of the Conventional Method, Back Wall Technique, and Untied Stay Suture Method
Authors: Arai Satoe
Published: May 2021

Background: Compared with the conventional microvascular anastomosis method, the back wall technique and untied stay suture method allow for better visualization of the vascular lumen and have been reported to be effective for beginner surgeons. However, there are no reports of such advantages from experimental studies. The present study compared the usefulness of the conventional method (Method C), back wall technique (Method B), and untied stay suture method (Method U) in rats.

Methods: Ninety end-to-end anastomosis procedures of the right femoral artery and vein were performed in rats. The anastomosis condition was assessed at the completion of suturing one side, at the completion of vascular anastomosis, and on postoperative day 7.

Results: After suturing one side, suture errors were observed in three veins with Method C. Immediately after the completion of vascular anastomosis, blood flow was impaired in one vein with Method C. On postoperative day 7, blood flow was impaired in one artery and one vein with Method C, one vein with Method B, and one artery with Method U.

Conclusions: No significant differences were observed between back wall technique and the untied stay suture method. However, the conventional method was more likely to lead to suture error or impaired blood flow compared with back wall technique and the untied stay suture method.
In Vitro Comparison between the Pulvertaft Weave and the Modified Core Suture Pulvertaft Weave
Authors: Van Royen Kjell , Quintero Jorge I. , Voor Michael , Muneer Mohammed , Bouri Fadi , Muresan Claude , Tsai Tsu-Min
Published: May 2021

Background: The Pulvertaft weave was described more than 50 years ago and is still used in tendon transfers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the strength of a modified core suture Pulvertaft weave technique and compare it to the original Pulvertaft weave traditionally used in tendon transfer surgery.

Methods: 12 extensor pollicis longus tendons and extensor indices proprius tendons were harvested from fresh frozen cadavers. Six Pulvertaft weaves were performed using FiberWire 4.0 and six core suture tendon weave were performed using FiberLoop 4.0. Biomechanical analysis was performed and stifness, first failure load and ultimate failure load were measured for both set of repairs.

Results: The stiffness of the core suture tendon repair (9.5 N/mm) was greater than that of the Pulvertaft repair (2.5 N/mm) The first failure load of the core suture tendon repairs (68.9 N) was greater than the Pulvertaft repairs (19.2 N) and the ultimate failure load of the core suture tendon repairs (101.8 N) was greater than the Pulvertaft repairs (21.9 N). All of these differences were statistically significant.

Conclusions: The core suture Pulvertaft weave is a modification to the Pulvertaft weave used in tendon transfers. The results of this cadaveric study suggest it is 5 times stronger than the traditional Pulvertaft repair, potentially allowing it to be used with early active motion protocols after tendon transfers.
Conversion to Extension Contracture as a Means of Correction of Severe Flexion Contracture of the PIP Joint Using a Modified Dynamic External Fixator
Authors: Ohira Kenji , Hamada Yoshitaka , Toyama Takeyasu , Suga Toshimitsu , Shinko Seiko , Kohara Shoma , Saito Takanori
Published: May 2021

Background: This is a retrospective case series investigating the outcomes using a dynamic external fixator (DEF) for treatment on severe flexion contractures at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. Severe flexion contractures of the PIP joint occurring after multiple operations and neglected over a long period of time are difficult to treat. The recurrence of contracture, even after successful treatment, is inevitable in patients with severe cases. In this study, we defined the severity of PIP joint contracture based on the active range of motion (ROM), soft tissue condition, and duration of the contracture. We also illustrated the strategy, results, and complications of using a DEF with rubber bands in these severe cases.

Methods: We studied 11 fingers of 10 patients with PIP joint contracture treated by DEF. These were fixed at a small arc and neglected for an average 4.1 years (range, 1–9 years). The temporal Kirshner wire (K-wire) fixation after achieving an extension via DEF was maintained for 9.1 weeks on average. We retrospectively reviewed the results of these patients with an average 2-year follow-up.

Results: Our method yielded favorable results upon retrospective evaluation. The average active ROM of the affected PIP joint improved from 90/96° to 34/83° with a functional arc and good patient satisfaction. The elastic force induced by strong rubber bands was safe and effective. The first step of joint space widening was the key to obtaining a successful joint extension afterwards. Serious progression of osteoarthritis at the PIP joint and pin-site fracture were a complication in each one case.

Conclusions: In this study, we evaluate the surgical strategy of using DEFs powered by elastic torque from rubber bands to treat severe cases of flexion contractures of fingers. We first created extension contracture intentionally, followed by promoting flexion movement during follow-up in this group of patients.
Lateral Elbow Dislocation of a Patient with Elbow Flexion Contracture and a Traumatic Brain Lesion
Authors: Kim Jin Young , Choi Guk Jin
Published: May 2021

Most of the lateral dislocations reported in previous literatures occurred to healthy patients by accident. However, our patient had limping gait, flexion contracture of the elbow, and spasticity in an affected arm due to a traumatic brain lesion 20 years ago. He fell down while taking a walk and presented with a lateral elbow dislocation accompanying tingling sense in ulnar nerve territory of his hand. Open reduction was performed. The torn MCL was reattached and the ulnar nerve was released. In postoperative six months, the range of motion was regained and the neurologic symptoms were resolved. This case shows that flexion contracture of elbow joint and a brain lesion causing motor disturbance of upper extremity could be the specific condition causing lateral elbow dislocation. Open reduction including repair of MCL and decompression of ulnar nerve, seems quite reasonable for the treatment of the lateral elbow dislocation.
Reputation of Addis Ababa University in the Eyes of Students: A College-Level Perspective from Teacher Preparation Programs
Authors: Woldearegay Amanuel Gebru
Published: May 2021

The evidence base continues to confirm the leveraging effect of reputation in higher education as an important strategic resource influencing a university’s visibility, attractiveness, credibility, impact, and competitive position nationally and internationally. From their expressed interest in their relative national and continental rankings, Ethiopian universities seem to have started sensing the relevance of their reputational position. In this article, we report a mixed methods study of the reputation of Addis Ababa University using data from a random sample (N = 153) of teacher training students of science, social science, and humanities and languages backgrounds under the College of Education and Behavioural Sciences (CEBS). A piloted and validated university reputation scale with open-ended items was used to illicit student opinion. In addition to descriptive statistics, inferential designs that involved correlation and ANOVA procedures were employed. Ratings for global reputation, quality of academic programs, quality of external performance, and emotional engagement are reported. Limitations and directions for further research are indicated.
Retrorectal Schwannomas: Atypical Presentation and Controversial Surgical Management
Authors: Trimech Wided , Ennaceur Farouk , Hassine Hiba Ben , Zneti Hanen , Noomen Faouzi , Zouari Khadija
Published: May 2021

Schwannomas also known as neurilemomas are benign tumors. Retrorectal schwannomas are extremely rare, accounting for 1 to 5% of all schwannomas. They are mostly asymptomatic but may present with symptoms such as pelvic pain, back pain, lower extremities pain, or constipation. Physical examination is often poor. Imaging (CT, MRI) and fine needle biopsy can often help orient the diagnosis. The treatment of choice is monoblock resection of the mass. The prognosis is good. Recurrence has been reported especially after intralesional enucleation. We report a case of a 41-year-old male patient consulting for chronic low back pain eventually diagnosed with retrorectal schwannoma. We performed a surgical resection and the histological examination was consistent with the diagnosis of benign (ancient) schwannoma.
A New Design of Metaheuristic Search Called Improved Monkey Algorithm Based on Random Perturbation for Optimization Problems
Authors: Tunay Mustafa
Published: May 2021

The aim of this paper is to present a design of a metaheuristic search called improved monkey algorithm (MA+) that provides a suitable solution for the optimization problems. The proposed algorithm has been renewed by a new method using random perturbation (RP) into two control parameters (p1 and p2) to solve a wide variety of optimization problems. A novel RP is defined to improve the control parameters and is constructed off the proposed algorithm. The main advantage of the control parameters is that they more generally prevented the proposed algorithm from getting stuck in optimal solutions. Many optimization problems at the maximum allowable number of iterations can sometimes lead to an inferior local optimum. However, the search strategy in the proposed algorithm has proven to have a successful global optimal solution, convergence optimal solution, and much better performance on many optimization problems for the lowest number of iterations against the original monkey algorithm. All details in the improved monkey algorithm have been represented in this study. The performance of the proposed algorithm was first evaluated using 12 benchmark functions on different dimensions. These different dimensions can be classified into three different types: low-dimensional (30), medium-dimensional (60), and high-dimensional (90). In addition, the performance of the proposed algorithm was compared with the performance of several metaheuristic algorithms using these benchmark functions on many different types of dimensions. Experimental results show that the improved monkey algorithm is clearly superior to the original monkey algorithm, as well as to other well-known metaheuristic algorithms, in terms of obtaining the best optimal value and accelerating convergence solution.
Writers Are Common among Parkinson’s Disease Patients: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Aasly Anna , Aasly Jan O.
Published: May 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients may have a specific personality profile, which includes being introvert, cautious and devoted to hard work. The evaluation of psychological characteristics must be evaluated according to methods for assessments of personality disorders. Such evaluations are often time-consuming and available only in research settings. The “parkinsonian trait” may be established early in life but may change with disease progression. To overcome this long interval before onset of PD questions on literary activities were included in the medical record. Three percent of PD patients could be defined as writers, significantly higher than observed in the general population. PD writers published their first books long before onset of disease. Being a writer is an extrovert trait meaning that the patient is prepared for criticism and publicity. We suggest that questions regarding personal activities prior to disease onset add valuable information on personality which differs significantly from traits observed later in the disease period.
Macro-Micro Response Characteristics of Surrounding Rock and Overlying Strata towards the Transition from Open-Pit to Underground Mining
Authors: Li Xiaoshuang , Yang Shun , Wang Yunmin , Nie Wen , Liu Zhifang
Published: May 2021

The macro-micro mining response of the surrounding rock and overlying strata towards the transformation from open-pit to underground mining is examined in the present study, based on the engineering background of the Jinning phosphate mine (Yunnan Phosphate Chemical Group Co., Ltd.) via simulations involving similar materials, digital photographic measurement technology, and numerical simulation. The mining deformation of the surrounding rock underground, and of the overlying strata, is shown to develop in three stages, namely: (1) small and local deformation, (2) continuous linear increase, and (3) the violent nonlinear collapse of the entire system. The internal distribution of stress in the surrounding rock and adjacent overlying strata of the inclined mined-out area is complicated. The degrees of pressure increase and pressure relief have an important relationship with the size of the mining space. The pressure relief is more complete close to the mined area, and the stress reduction decreases with increasing distance. The cracks propagate in arc shapes and have a tendency to penetrate into the upper and lower ends of the stope. The size of the excavation space plays a key role in the generation, propagation, and penetration of the cracks. Due to the disturbance of the first mining level and the increase in excavation depth, the rate of damage to the surrounding and overlying rock increases in the second mining level. This process generates more cracks, which accelerate the instability of the surrounding rock and overlying strata.
Binary Bitwise Artificial Bee Colony as Feature Selection Optimization Approach within Taguchi’s T-Method
Authors: Harudin Nolia , Ramlie Faizir , Wan Muhamad Wan Zuki Azman , Muhtazaruddin M. N. , Jamaludin Khairur Rijal , Abu Mohd Yazid , Marlan Zulkifli Marlah
Published: May 2021

Taguchi’s T-Method is one of the Mahalanobis Taguchi System- (MTS-) ruled prediction techniques that has been established specifically but not limited to small, multivariate sample data. The prediction model’s complexity aspect can be further enhanced by removing features that do not provide valuable information on the overall prediction. In order to accomplish this, a matrix called orthogonal array (OA) is used within the existing Taguchi’s T-Method. However, OA’s fixed-scheme matrix and its drawback in coping with the high-dimensionality factor led to a suboptimal solution. On the contrary, the usage of SNR (dB) as its objective function was a reliable measure. The application of Binary Bitwise Artificial Bee Colony (BitABC) has been adopted as the novel search engine that helps cater to OA’s limitation within Taguchi’s T-Method. The generalization aspect using bootstrap was a fundamental addition incorporated in this research to control the effect of overfitting in the analysis. The adoption of BitABC has been tested on eight (8) case studies, including large and small sample datasets. The result shows improved predictive accuracy ranging between 13.99% and 32.86% depending on cases. This study proved that incorporating BitABC techniques into Taguchi’s T-Method methodology effectively improved its prediction accuracy.
Clinical Features, Risk Factors, and Therapy of Epithelial Keratitis after Cataract Surgery
Authors: Wang Yani , Li Dongfang , Su Wenjie , Dai Yunhai
Published: May 2021

Purpose. The study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics, risk factors, and therapy of epithelial keratitis after cataract surgery. Methods. Medical data of 89 consecutive patients who developed epithelial keratitis after cataract surgery, including 37 patients with diabetes mellitus (37 eyes) and 52 patients without diabetes mellitus (52 eyes), were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical characteristics, risk factors, and therapy in those patients were evaluated. Results. The preoperative tear film function determined by the tear breakup time, meibomian gland atrophy score, and low tear meniscus height in diabetic patients was poorer than nondiabetic patients (

P
<
0.001

). Of diabetic patients, 83.78% (31/37) had been diagnosed with meibomian gland dysfunction before cataract surgery and treated with topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs after cataract surgery for 44.69 ± 10.51 days, compared to 42.31% (22/52) of nondiabetic patients receiving the topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory treatment for 33.35 ± 5.16 days (both

P
<
0.001

). Epithelial lesions progressed within three to four days following cataract surgery in 59.46% (22/37) of diabetic patients, versus 30.77% (16/52) of the nondiabetic patients (

P
=
0.025

). Patients with combined meibomian gland dysfunction and epithelial defects accounted for 48.65% (18/37) in the diabetic group and 25.00% (13/52) in the nondiabetic group (

P
<
0.001

). In vivo confocal microscopy showed absence of subbasal never fibers in eyes with epithelial defects, and central corneal sensation was also significantly depressed in those eyes, but there was no significant difference between the two groups (

P
=
0.227

). Corneal ulceration and herpes simplex keratitis were found in 2.70% (1/37) and 5.41% (2/37) of diabetic patients, respectively. Amniotic membrane transplantation was required in 32.43% (12/37) of patients in the diabetic group, and the proportion was higher than 1.92% (1/52) in the nondiabetic group (

P
<
0.001

). Average healing time of the corneal epithelium in the diabetic group was 40.62 ± 20.0 days, much longer than 21.74 ± 6.94 days in the nondiabetic group (

P
=
0.002

). Conclusion. Epithelial keratitis after cataract surgery in diabetic patients has the characteristics of rapid development, severe epithelial damage, and slow repair of the corneal epithelium. Amniotic membrane transplantation is a good choice for persistent epithelial defects associated with such epithelial keratitis. Attention should be paid to the tear film function and use of topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in patients undergoing cataract surgery.
Flow Simulation in the Upper Respiratory Tract of Two Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients with Successful and Failed Surgery
Authors: Shao Jiacun , Yan Weiwei , Liu Yang , Lu Mingzhen
Published: May 2021

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder which may need to be treated by the upper respiratory tract (URT) surgery. To increase the success rate of the URT surgery, it is crucial to understand the flow features in the URT models. In this work, the turbulent flow characteristics in four 3D anatomically accurate URT models reconstructed from two OSA subjects with successful and failed surgery are numerically studied by the large-eddy simulation (LES) and unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS). The features of velocity fields, pressure fields, and wall shear stress fields as well as the spectral analysis of wall shear stress between successful and failed surgery are explored. The results indicate that LES is capable of capturing flow patterns and flow oscillation and is effective for OSA surgery prediction. Even if the unsteady RANS can obtain the correct pressure drop across the airways, it may not be appropriate to be used for surgery prediction. Moreover, it is found that the quality of oscillating signal of wall shear stress is a key factor in surgery prediction. In a successful surgery, the wall shear stress oscillation is always strong, and the oscillating signal can perform a dominant frequency near 3~5 Hz, while in a failed surgery it does not show this clear intrinsic property. The results not only will gain new insights in the URT surgical planning but also will improve the prediction of surgical outcome for OSA patients.
Rotating Machinery Remaining Useful Life Prediction Scheme Using Deep‐Learning‐Based Health Indicator and a New RVM
Authors: Zhang Gang , Liang Weige , She Bo , Tian Fuqing
Published: May 2021

Remaining useful life (RUL) prediction plays a significant role in developing the condition‐based maintenance and improving the reliability and safety of machines. This paper proposes a remaining useful life prediction scheme combining deep‐learning‐based health indicator and a new relevance vector machine. First, both one‐dimensional time‐series information and two‐dimensional time‐frequency maps are input into a hybrid deep‐learning structure network consisting of convolutional neural network (CNN) and long short‐term memory network (LSTM) to construct health indicator (HI). Then, the prediction results and confidence interval are calculated by a new RVM enhanced by a polynomial regression model. The proposed method is verified by the public PRONOSTIA bearing datasets. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in improving the prediction accuracy and analyzing the prediction uncertainty.
Association of rs11780592 Polymorphism in the Human Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Gene (EPHX2) with Oxidized LDL and Mortality in Patients with Diabetic Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Roumeliotis Stefanos , Roumeliotis Athanasios , Stamou Aikaterini , Panagoutsos Stylianos , Manolopoulos Vangelis G. , Tsetsos Fotis , Georgitsi Marianthi , Liakopoulos Vassilios
Published: May 2021

Soluble epoxide hydrolase 2 (EPHX2) is an enzyme promoting increased cellular apoptosis through induction of oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation. The EPHX2 gene which encodes soluble EPHX2 might be implicated in the pathogenesis and development of OS and atherosclerosis. We aimed to assess the possible association between two functional polymorphisms of the EPHX2 gene (rs2741335 and rs11780592) with oxidized LDL (ox‐LDL), carotid atherosclerosis, mortality, and cardiovascular (CV) disease in 118 patients with diabetic chronic kidney disease (CKD). At baseline, ox‐LDL and carotid intima‐media thickness (cIMT) were evaluated and all patients were followed for seven years with outcomes all‐cause mortality and CV events. rs11780592 EPHX2 polymorphism was associated with ox‐LDL, cIMT, albuminuria, and hypertension. Compared to AG and GG, AA homozygotes had higher values of albuminuria, ox‐LDL, and cIMT (p = 0.046, p = 0.003, and p = 0.038, respectively). These associations remained significant, even after grouping for the G allele. After the follow‐up period, 42/118 patients died (30/60 with AA genotype, 11/42 with AG genotype, and 1/12 with GG genotype) and 49/118 experienced a new CV event (fatal or nonfatal). The Kaplan‐Meier analysis revealed that patients with the AA genotype exhibited a significantly higher mortality risk, compared to patients with AG and GG genotypes (p = 0.006). This association became even stronger, when AG and GG genotypes were grouped (AA vs. AG/GG, p = 0.002). AA homozygotes were strongly associated with all‐cause mortality in both univariate (hazard ratio (HR) = 2.74, confidence interval (CI) = 1.40–5.35, p = 0.003) and multivariate Cox regression analysis (HR = 2.61, CI = 1.32–5.17, p = 0.006). In conclusion, our study demonstrated that genetic variations of EPHX2 gene were associated with increased circulating ox‐LDL, increased cIMT, and all‐cause mortality in diabetic CKD. Since EPHX2 regulates the cholesterol efflux and the oxidation of LDL in foam cells and macrophages, our study suggests that a genetic basis to endothelial dysfunction and OS might be present in diabetic CKD.
Approximations of

∈
,
∈
∨

q

k

-Fuzzy Hyperideals in Ordered LA-Semihypergroups
Authors: Abughazalah Nabilah , Yaqoob Naveed , Ashraf Samavia
Published: May 2021

This paper concerns the relationship between rough sets,

∈
,
∈
∨

q

k

-fuzzy sets, and the LA-semihypergroups. We proved that the lower approximation (

l

-approx) and the upper approximation (

u

-approx) of different hyperideals of LA-semihypergroups become again hyperideal and also provided some examples. We also provided a result which shows that, if

ϑ

is not a hyperideal of an LA-semihypergroup

P

, then its lower approximation is also not a hyperideal.
MALDI-TOF Mass Spectroscopy Applications in Clinical Microbiology
Authors: Alizadeh Maryam , Yousefi Leila , Pakdel Farzaneh , Ghotaslou Reza , Rezaee Mohammad Ahangarzadeh , Khodadadi Ehsaneh , Oskouei Mahin Ahangar , Soroush Barhaghi Mohammad Hossein , Kafil Hossein Samadi
Published: May 2021

There is a range of proteomics methods to spot and analyze bacterial protein contents such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), which give comprehensive information about the microorganisms that may be helpful within the diagnosis and coverings of infections. Microorganism identification by mass spectrometry is predicted on identifying a characteristic spectrum of every species so matched with an outsized database within the instrument. MALDI-TOF MS is one of the diagnostic methods, which is a straightforward, quick, and precise technique, and is employed in microbial diagnostic laboratories these days and may replace other diagnostic methods. This method identifies various microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses, which supply comprehensive information. One of the MALDI-TOF MS’s crucial applications is bacteriology, which helps identify bacterial species, identify toxins, and study bacterial antibiotic resistance. By knowing these cases, we will act more effectively against bacterial infections.
A Case of Presumed Dyskeratosis Congenita Causing Severe Retinal Vascular Occlusion
Authors: Hirokawa Takahisa , Oosuka Shou , Tonari Masahiro , Mizuno Hiroshi , Kida Teruyo , Inoue Akiko , Ashida Akira , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: May 2021

Dyskeratosis congenita (DKC) is a rare, multisystem, bone marrow failure disease characterized by abnormalities such as in the skin, mucosa, nervous system, and lungs. Here we report a rare case of presumed DKC causing total retinal detachment in the right eye and severe peripheral retinal vascular occlusion in the left eye. A 3-year-old boy was presented with vitreous hemorrhage and total retinal detachment in the right eye and was scheduled to undergo vitreous surgery in the right eye and detailed ophthalmologic examination of the left eye under general anesthesia. Since a systemic examination revealed anemia and marked thrombocytopenia, he underwent a detailed pediatric examination. Although genetic testing revealed no significant pathologic mutations, the presence of shortened telomere length and other clinical findings suggested the possibility of DKC. His right eye had severe proliferative vitreoretinopathy, and retinal reattachment was not achieved with vitreous surgery, thus resulting in phthisis bulbi. The left eye showed a wide retinal avascular area in the temporal retina, retinal neovascularization, and hard exudates on fluorescein fundus angiography and was treated with laser photocoagulation using a binocular indirect ophthalmoscopic photocoagulator. Following laser surgery, the new blood vessels regressed, and the visual acuity was maintained at 1.0. The findings in this rare case indicate that DKC can cause severe retinal vascular occlusion, thus leading to vitreous hemorrhage and retinal detachment. Therefore, early detection with fundus examination and early treatment with photocoagulation are important.
Canagliflozin: A New Therapeutic Option in Patients That Present Postprandial Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ciudin Andreea , Sánchez Marta , Hernandez Irene , Cordero Efrain , Fidilio Enzamaria , Comas Marta , Gonzalez Carla , Lopez Natividad , Vilallonga Ramon , Giralt Marina , Ferrer Roser , Hernández Cristina , Simó Rafael
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is the most common surgical procedure for morbid obesity. However, it can present serious late complications, like postprandial hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (PHH). Recent data suggested an increase in intestinal SGLT-1 after RYGB. However, there is no data on the inhibition of SGLT-1 to prevent PHH in patients with prior RYBG. On this basis, we aimed to evaluate (a) the effect of canagliflozin 300 mg on the response to 100 g glucose overload (oral glucose tolerance test [OGTT]); (b) the pancreatic response after intra-arterial calcium stimulation in the context of PHH after RYGB. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective pilot study including patients (n = 21) with PHH after RYGB, matched by age and gender with healthy controls (n = 5). Basal OGTT and after 2 weeks of daily 300 mg of canagliflozin was performed in all cases. In addition, venous sampling after intra-arterial calcium stimulation of the pancreas was performed in 10 cases. Results: OGTT after canagliflozin showed a significant reduction of plasma glucose levels (minute 30: 161.5 ± 36.22 vs. 215.9 ± 58.11 mg/dL; minute 60: 187.46 ± 65.88 vs. 225.9 ± 85.60 mg/dL, p < 0.01) and insulinemia (minute 30: 95.6 ± 27.31 vs. 216.35 ± 94.86 mg/dL, p = 0.03; minute 60: 120.85 ± 94.86 vs. 342.64 ± 113.32 mIU/L, p < 0.001). At minute 180, a significant reduction (85.7%) of the rate of hypoglycemia was observed after treatment with canagliflozin (p < 0.00001). All cases presented normal pancreatic response after intra-arterial calcium administration. Conclusion: Canagliflozin (300 mg) significantly decreased glucose absorption and prevented PHH after 100 g OGTT in patients with RYGB. Our results suggest that canagliflozin could be a new therapeutic option for patients that present PHH after RYGB.
Endobronchial Coil System versus Standard-of-Care Medical Management in the Treatment of Subjects with Severe Emphysema
Authors: Klooster Karin , Valipour Arschang , Marquette Charles-Hugo , Boutros Jacques , Mal Hervé , Marceau Armelle , Shah Pallav L. , Conway Francesca , Deslée Gaëtan , Bourdin Arnaud , Pison Christophe , Grah Christian , Hetzel Martin , Schumann Christian , Kessler Romain , Huebner Ralf-Harto , Skowasch Dirk , Darwiche Kaid , Hammerl Peter , Stanzel Franz , Bezzi Michaela , Dutau Hervé , Herth Felix J.F. , Slebos Dirk-Jan
Published: May 2021

Background: Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction using endobronchial coils is a new treatment for patients with severe emphysema. To date, the benefits have been modest and have been suggested to be much larger in patients with severe hyperinflation and nonmulti-comorbidity. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of endobronchial coil treatment in a randomized multicenter clinical trial using optimized patient selection. Method: Patients with severe emphysema on HRCT scan with severe hyperinflation (residual volume [RV] ≥200% predicted and RV/total lung capacity [TLC] >55%) were randomized to coil treatment or control. Primary outcome measures were differences in the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) total score at 6 months. Results: Due to premature study termination, a total of 120 patients (age 63 ± 7 years, FEV1 29 ± 7% predicted, RV 251 ± 41% predicted, RV/TLC 67 ± 6%, and SGRQ 58 ± 13 points), instead of 210 patients, were randomized. At study termination, 91 patients (57 coil and 34 control) had 6-month results available. Analyses showed significantly greater improvements in favor of the coil group. The increase in FEV1 was greater in the coil group than that in the control group by + 10.3 [+4.7 to +16.0] % and in SGRQ by −10.6 [−15.9 to −5.4] points. At study termination, there were 5 (6.8%) deaths in the coil cohort reported. Conclusion: Despite early study termination, coil treatment compared to control results in a significant improvement in the lung function and quality of life benefits for up to 6 months in patients with emphysema and severe hyperinflation. These improvements were of clinical importance but were associated with a higher likelihood of serious adverse events.
O nexo entre religiosidade/espiritualidade e o comportamento suicida em jovens
Authors: Andrade Maria Betânia Tinti de , Felipe Adriana Olimpia Barbosa , Vedana Kelly Graziani Giacchero , Scorsolini-Comin Fábio
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: avaliar as evidências científicas referentes à relação entre religiosidade/espiritualidade (R/E) e o comportamento suicida. Método: estudo de revisão integrativa da literatura, nas bases de dados: LILACS, PubMed e CINAHL, de janeiro de 2011 a fevereiro de 2020. Foram identificados 1044 artigos, dos quais sete foram incluídos no estudo. Resultados: Predominaram estudos quantitativos (71,4%), realizados com universitários (57,14%), que investigaram a religião (71,43%) e diferentes dimensões do comportamento suicida (85,7%). A maioria dos estudos retratara benefícios da religião e da espiritualidade, mesmo que indiretamente na vida dos jovens e apontaram para efeitos protetivos da R/E em relação ao comportamento suicida. Conclusão: A R/E pode ser um fator importante para adolescentes e adultos jovens que merece ser explorada em investigações e ações que fortaleçam os fatores protetores contra o comportamento suicida e permitam o aumento da literacia em saúde mental entre lideranças religiosas.
Gloeocantharellus andasibensis sp. nov. (Gomphaceae) from Madagascar

Authors: RALAIVELOARISOA ANNA BERTHE , LIIMATAINEN KARE , RALIMANANA HELENE , JEANNODA VOLOLONIAINA , CABLE STUART , NISKANEN TUULA
Published: May 2021

Gloeocantharellus andasibensis sp. nov. is recognized by orange-red basidiomata with a convex to plane, innately fibrillose and viscid pileus, ellipsoid to amygdaliform, small, verrucose basidiospores, and a distinct nrITS sequence. This is the first record of the genus from Madagascar. To improve the understanding of the nomenclature of the genus, the type specimen of G. okapaensis and specimens of G. lateritius and G. corneri accessioned in the fungarium of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew were also sequenced.