bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL-17-Mediated Inflammation Promotes Cigarette Smoke-Induced Genomic Instability
Authors: Cao Chao , Tian Baoping , Geng Xinwei , Zhou Hongbin , Xu Zhiwei , Lai Tianwen , Wu Yanping , Bao Zhengqiang , Chen Zhihua , Li Wen , Shen Huahao , Ying Songmin
Published: May 2021

(1) Background: Chronic inflammation has been regarded as a risk factor for the onset and progression of human cancer, but the critical molecular mechanisms underlying this pathological process have yet to be elucidated. (2) Methods: In this study, we investigated whether interleukin (IL)-17-mediated inflammation was involved in cigarette smoke-induced genomic instability. (3) Results: Higher levels of both IL-17 and the DNA damage response (DDR) were found in the lung tissues of smokers than in those of non-smokers. Similarly, elevated levels of IL-17 and the DDR were observed in mice after cigarette smoke exposure, and a positive correlation was observed between IL-17 expression and the DDR. In line with these observations, the DDR in the mouse lung was diminished in IL-17 KO when exposed to cigarette smoke. Besides this, the treatment of human bronchial epithelium cells with IL-17 led to increased levels of the DDR and chromosome breakage. (4) Conclusions: These results suggest that cigarette smoke induces genomic instability at least partially through IL-17-mediated inflammation, implying that IL-17 could play an important role in the development of lung cancer.
Physiological and Pathological Inflammation Induced by Antibodies and Pentraxins
Authors: Geyer Chiara Elisabeth , Mes Lynn , Newling Melissa , den Dunnen Jeroen , Hoepel Willianne
Published: May 2021

Macrophages play a key role in induction of inflammatory responses. These inflammatory responses are mostly considered to be instigated by activation of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) or cytokine receptors. However, recently it has become clear that also antibodies and pentraxins, which can both activate Fc receptors (FcRs), induce very powerful inflammatory responses by macrophages that can even be an order of magnitude greater than PRRs. While the physiological function of this antibody-dependent inflammation (ADI) is to counteract infections, undesired activation or over-activation of this mechanism will lead to pathology, as observed in a variety of disorders, including viral infections such as COVID-19, chronic inflammatory disorders such as Crohn’s disease, and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. In this review we discuss how physiological ADI provides host defense by inducing pathogen-specific immunity, and how erroneous activation of this mechanism leads to pathology. Moreover, we will provide an overview of the currently known signaling and metabolic pathways that underlie ADI, and how these can be targeted to counteract pathological inflammation.
Modelling the Functions of Polo-Like Kinases in Mice and Their Applications as Cancer Targets with a Special Focus on Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Kressin Monika , Fietz Daniela , Becker Sven , Strebhardt Klaus
Published: May 2021

Polo-like kinases (PLKs) belong to a five-membered family of highly conserved serine/threonine kinases (PLK1-5) that play differentiated and essential roles as key mitotic kinases and cell cycle regulators and with this in proliferation and cellular growth. Besides, evidence is accumulating for complex and vital non-mitotic functions of PLKs. Dysregulation of PLKs is widely associated with tumorigenesis and by this, PLKs have gained increasing significance as attractive targets in cancer with diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic potential. PLK1 has proved to have strong clinical relevance as it was found to be over-expressed in different cancer types and linked to poor patient prognosis. Targeting the diverse functions of PLKs (tumor suppressor, oncogenic) are currently at the center of numerous investigations in particular with the inhibition of PLK1 and PLK4, respectively in multiple cancer trials. Functions of PLKs and the effects of their inhibition have been extensively studied in cancer cell culture models but information is rare on how these drugs affect benign tissues and organs. As a step further towards clinical application as cancer targets, mouse models therefore play a central role. Modelling PLK function in animal models, e.g., by gene disruption or by treatment with small molecule PLK inhibitors offers promising possibilities to unveil the biological significance of PLKs in cancer maintenance and progression and give important information on PLKs’ applicability as cancer targets. In this review we aim at summarizing the approaches of modelling PLK function in mice so far with a special glimpse on the significance of PLKs in ovarian cancer and of orthotopic cancer models used in this fatal malignancy.
Activated Carbons for Syngas Desulfurization: Evaluating Approaches for Enhancing Low-Temperature H2S Oxidation Rate
Authors: Frilund Christian , Hiltunen Ilkka , Simell Pekka
Published: May 2021

Its relatively low cost and high surface area makes activated carbon an ideal adsorbent candidate for H2S removal. However, physical adsorption of H2S is not very effective; therefore, methods to facilitate reactive H2S oxidation on carbons are of interest. The performance of H2S removal of non-impregnated, impregnated, and doped activated carbon in low-temperature syngas was evaluated in fixed-bed breakthrough tests. The importance of oxygen content and relative humidity was established for reactive H2S removal. Impregnates especially improved the adsorption rate compared to non-impregnated carbons. Non-impregnated carbons could however retain a high capture capacity with sufficient contact time. In a relative performance test, the best performance was achieved by doped activated carbon, 320 mg g−1. Ammonia in syngas was found to significantly improve the adsorption rate of non-impregnated activated carbon. A small quantity of ammonia was consumed by the carbon bed, suggesting that ammonia is a reactant. Finally, to validate ammonia-enhanced desulfurization, bench-scale experiments were performed in biomass-based gasification syngas. The results show that when the ammonia concentration in syngas was in the tens of ppm range, 40–160 ppm H2S oxidation proceeded rapidly. Ammonia-enhanced oxidation allows utilization of cheaper non-impregnated activated carbons by in situ improvement of the adsorption kinetics. Ammonia enhancement is therefore established as a viable method for achieving high-capacity H2S removal with unmodified activated carbons.
Effect of the Deposition Time and Heating Temperature on the Structure of Chromium Silicides Synthesized by Pack Cementation Process
Authors: Tarani Evangelia , Stathokostopoulos Dimitrios , Tsipas Sofia A. , Chrissafis Konstantinos , Vourlias George
Published: May 2021

Transition metal silicides have attracted great interest for their potential use in optoelectronic devices, photovoltaic cells, and thermoelectric conversion elements because of their high melting point, high oxidation resistance, and satisfactory thermoelectric properties. This study focuses on the effect of the deposition time and the heating temperature on the morphology and structure of the chromium silicides synthesized by the pack cementation method. A series of experiments were carried out at various temperatures (1000–1150 °C) with different deposition times (15–120 min). The morphology and the chemical composition of the samples were determined using SEM with an EDS analyzer. The structure determination and phase identification were performed by XRD analysis. The examination of the as-formed materials was completed by performing thermal stability tests. The most suitable conditions for producing CrSi2 sample with satisfactory properties and simultaneously minimizing the cost and production time are listed. It was found that the sample synthesized at 1000 °C for 15 min during the chromizing step, in combination with the siliconizing step at 1000 °C for 60 min, presents the best thermal stability and these selected temperatures offer appropriate, economical, and repeatable results.
Small Scale Fisheries, Dolphins and Societal Challenges: A Case Study in the City of Volos, Greece
Authors: Pardalis Stergios V. , Komnenou Anastasia , Exadactylos Athanasios , Gkafas Georgios A.
Published: May 2021

Existing literature on dolphin-fisheries interaction focused on Greece reveals both an undeveloped area for research, but also a lack of relevant data in this field. Although imperative, relevant research has been slow on innovation and cooperation among universities, official bureaus, and NGOs that are obliged to work together as European and national laws dictate. Most of the research in this new field focuses on the interaction between marine mammals and local fisheries, suggesting that this relationship may be problematic for both parties since the former are being treated (at least occasionally) with brutality, while the latter try to deal with economic loss. Dolphins and fishermen operate within the same ecological niches for their survival, the main area of conflict being nutritious fish. Anthropological research on ethnic identity has long dealt with antagonistic relationships over resources between adjacent groups of people. Marine biologists’ research in Greece focuses on the human factor, and some of its shortcomings may well be seen as the result of limited, or an absence of, training in social sciences. This article attempts to draw from anthropological theory to shed light on a particular symbiosis between humans and dolphins. Multidisciplinary approaches gain ground in a wide range of research interests and seem to be fruitful in terms of theoretical and practical results.
Designing Knowledge Sharing System for Statistical Activities in BPS-Statistics Indonesia
Authors: Sensuse Dana Indra , Suwiyanto Viktor , Lusa Sofian , Gandhi Arfive , Mishbah Muhammad , Elisabeth Damayanti
Published: May 2021

Statistics of Indonesia’s (BPS) performance are not optimal since there is a lack of integration among business processes. This has resulted in unsynchronized data, unstandardized business processes, and inefficient IT investment. To encourage more qualified and integrated business processes, BPS should optimize the knowledge sharing process (KSP) among government employees in statistical areas. This study designed a Knowledge Sharing System (KSS) to facilitate KSP in BPS towards knowledge sharing improvement. The KSS manifested a hypothesis that the design of qualified knowledge management can facilitate an organization to overcome the lack of integration among business processes. Hence, BPS can avoid repetitive mistakes, improve work efficiency, and reduce the risk of failure. This study generated a business process-oriented KSS by combining soft system methodology with the B-KIDE (Business process-oriented Knowledge Infrastructure Development) Framework. It delivered research artifacts (a rich picture, CATWOE analysis (costumer, actor, transformation, weltanschauung, owner, environment), and conceptual model) to capture eight mechanisms of knowledge, map them into the knowledge process, and define the applicable technology. The KSS model has perceived a score of 0.40 using the Kappa formula that indicates the stakeholders’ acceptance. Therefore, BPS can leverage a qualified KSS towards the integrated business processes statistically while the hypothesis was accepted.
Recurrence in Oral Premalignancy: Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Analysis
Authors: Georgaki Maria , Avgoustidis Dimitris , Theofilou Vasileios Ionas , Piperi Evangelia , Pettas Efstathios , Kalyvas Demos G. , Vlachodimitropoulos Dimitrios , Perisanidis Christos , Lazaris Andreas C. , Nikitakis Nikolaos G.
Published: May 2021

Oral leukoplakia (OL) has a propensity for recurrence and malignant transformation (MT). Herein, we evaluate sociodemographic, clinical, microscopic and immunohistochemical parameters as predictive factors for OL recurrence, also comparing primary lesions (PLs) with recurrences. Thirty-three patients with OL, completely removed either by excisional biopsy or by laser ablation following incisional biopsy, were studied. Selected molecules associated with the STAT3 oncogenic pathway, including pSTAT3, Bcl-xL, survivin, cyclin D1 and Ki-67, were further analyzed. A total of 135 OL lesions, including 97 PLs and 38 recurrences, were included. Out of 97 PLs, 31 recurred at least once and none of them underwent MT, during a mean follow-up time of 48.3 months. There was no statistically significant difference among the various parameters in recurrent vs. non-recurrent PLs, although recurrence was most frequent in non-homogeneous lesions (p = 0.087) and dysplastic lesions recurred at a higher percentage compared to hyperplastic lesions (34.5% vs. 15.4%). Lower levels of Bcl-xL and survivin were identified as significant risk factors for OL recurrence. Recurrences, although smaller and more frequently homogeneous and non-dysplastic compared to their corresponding PLs, exhibited increased immunohistochemical expression of oncogenic molecules, especially pSTAT3 and Bcl-xL. Our results suggest that parameters associated with recurrence may differ from those that affect the risk of progression to malignancy and support OL management protocols favoring excision and close monitoring of all lesions.
Development of Game-Based M-Learning Apps for Preschoolers
Authors: Laranjeiro Dionísia
Published: May 2021

Recent studies indicate tablets as the preferred devices of preschool children, due to portability, autonomy of use and variety of apps. There is also extensive evidence of the contributions of digital technologies in different areas of learning at these ages. The Aprender XXI project aimed to develop game-based learning apps, with content recommended in the Curriculum Guidelines for Pre-School Education (CGPE). The project used Design-Based Research (DBR) methodology, which combines scientific research and technological development. It was divided into three phases: preliminary study (literature review, search for existing apps, study of preschool curriculum), development (specifications, scriptwriting, design and programing) and evaluation (tests with users and conclusions). The preliminary study identified the needs to define robust apps. The evaluation with children and educator validated the development and defined improvements in the apps. As a result, we obtained four thematic apps—environment, health, citizenship and professions, composed of a set of games, suitable for autonomous use for children or for educational activities guided by educators in kindergarten. In addition, a website collects children’s play data, which is represented with flowers in a virtual world, to illustrate their participation/collaboration for a better future.
Multi-Input Deep Learning Based FMCW Radar Signal Classification
Authors: Cha Daewoong , Jeong Sohee , Yoo Minwoo , Oh Jiyong , Han Dongseog
Published: May 2021

In autonomous driving vehicles, the emergency braking system uses lidar or radar sensors to recognize the surrounding environment and prevent accidents. The conventional classifiers based on radar data using deep learning are single input structures using range–Doppler maps or micro-Doppler. Deep learning with a single input structure has limitations in improving classification performance. In this paper, we propose a multi-input classifier based on convolutional neural network (CNN) to reduce the amount of computation and improve the classification performance using the frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar. The proposed multi-input deep learning structure is a CNN-based structure using a distance Doppler map and a point cloud map as multiple inputs. The classification accuracy with the range–Doppler map or the point cloud map is 85% and 92%, respectively. It has been improved to 96% with both maps.
Design and Passive Training Control of Elbow Rehabilitation Robot
Authors: Cui Xiaohong , Wang Binrui , Lu Han , Chen Jiayu
Published: May 2021

In this paper, a rehabilitation robot driven by multifilament muscles is designed based on the rehabilitation robot motion model and a system elbow joint model. The passive training mode of rehabilitation robots were researched, and active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) leveraged to improve the tracking angle of robot joints. In the no-load motion simulation of rehabilitation robots, disturbances are added to the control variables to complete the ADRC and Proportional Integral Differential (PID) position control simulation. The simulation results indicate that the auto disturbance rejection control can quickly keep up the expected signal without overshoot, solve the contradiction between the system rapidity and overshoot. Moreover, it can better suppress the interference even if the external load changes. The upper limbs of the human body are used as the load on the robot body to complete the simulation of ADRC and PID position control objects of different weights. Finally, a passive rehabilitation training experiment was conducted to verify the safety of the rehabilitation robot, the rationality, comfort, and robustness of the mechanism design, and the effectiveness and feasibility of the ADRC.
Experimental Efficiency Evaluation of Stacked Transistor Half-Bridge Topologies in 14 nm CMOS Technology
Authors: Martins Bezerra Pedro André , Krismer Florian , Kolar Johann Walter , Khaddam-Aljameh Riduan , Paredes Stephan , Heller Ralph , Brunschwiler Thomas , Francese Pier Andrea , Morf Thomas , Kossel Marcel André , Braendli Matthias
Published: May 2021

Different Half-Bridge (HB) converter topologies for an Integrated Voltage Regulator (IVR), which serves as a microprocessor application, were evaluated. The HB circuits were implemented with Stacked Transistors (HBSTs) in a cutting-edge 14 nm CMOS technology node in order to enable the integration on the microprocessor die. Compared to a conventional realization of the HBST, it was found that the Active Neutral-Point Clamped (ANPC) HBST topology with Independent Clamp Switches (ICSs) not only ensured balanced blocking voltages across the series-connected transistors, but also featured a more robust operation and achieved higher efficiencies at high output currents. The IVR achieved a maximum efficiency of 85.3% at an output current of 300 mA and a switching frequency of 50 MHz. At the maximum measured output current of 780 mA, the efficiency was 83.1%. The active part of the IVR (power switches, gate-drivers, and level shifters) realized a high maximum current density of 24.7 A/mm2.
The Impact of Rural Fires on the Development of Invasive Species: Analysis of a Case Study with Acacia dealbata Link. in Casal do Rei (Seia, Portugal)
Authors: Nunes Leonel J. R. , Raposo Mauro A. M. , Meireles Catarina I. R. , Gomes Carlos J. Pinto , Ribeiro Nuno M. C. Almeida
Published: May 2021

Biological invasions can affect ecosystems in different ways. Invasive forest species, such as Acacia dealbata Link., affect forests’ productivity, because they compete directly with native species for access to light and nutrients, contributing to the loss of biodiversity. In this study, an area occupied by A. dealbata, located in Casal do Rei (Seia, Portugal) was studied to evaluate the influence of fire in the dispersion of this species, analyzing the historical occurrence of rural fires in the region, as well as through the determination of its annual biomass production and comparing its growth with other species using satellite images. The research shows a competitive advantage for A. dealbata, even when compared to species, such as Eucalyptus globulus and Pinus pinaster, which practically disappeared from the location under study after a significant fire occurred in 2005, while A. dealbata continued to thrive.
Antioxidant Effect of Wheat Germ Extracts and Their Antilipidemic Effect in Palmitic Acid-Induced Steatosis in HepG2 and 3T3-L1 Cells
Authors: Liaqat Humna , Kim Kyeong Jin , Park Soo-yeon , Jung Sung Keun , Park Sung Hee , Lim Seokwon , Kim Ji Yeon
Published: May 2021

Wheat germ (WG) is a by-product of wheat milling and comprises many bioactive compounds. This study aimed to compare the antioxidant and antilipidemic effects of different WG extracts (WGEs) by analyzing candidate bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, tocopherols, γ-oryzanol, and biogenic amines by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Antioxidant activity was determined using the ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays. The antilipidemic effect was evaluated in palmitic acid-induced steatosis in HepG2 hepatocytes and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Cellular lipid accumulation was assessed by Oil Red O staining and a cellular triglyceride content assay. All analyzed WGEs showed significant antioxidant potential, although some bioactive compounds, such as carotenoids, tocopherols, and γ-oryzanol, were the highest in the ethanol extract. Correlation analysis revealed the antioxidant potential of all identified biogenic amines except for spermidine. Ethanol and n-hexane extracts significantly inhibited cellular lipid accumulation in cell models. These results suggest that WGEs exhibit promising antioxidant potential, with a variety of bioactive compounds. Collectively, the findings of this study suggest that bioactive compounds in WGEs attenuate plasma lipid and oxidation levels. In conclusion, WG can be used as a natural antioxidant and nutraceutical using appropriate solvents and extraction methods.
The Structure and Composition of Extracted Pectin and Residual Cell Wall Material from Processing Tomato: The Role of a Stepwise Approach versus High-Pressure Homogenization-Facilitated Acid Extraction
Authors: Van Audenhove Jelle , Bernaerts Tom , De Smet Victor , Delbaere Sophie , Van Loey Ann M. , Hendrickx Marc E.
Published: May 2021

In literature, different pectin extraction methods exist. In this study, two approaches starting from the alcohol-insoluble residue (AIR) of processing tomato are performed in a parallel way to facilitate the comparison of pectin yield and the compositional and structural properties of the extracted pectin and residual cell wall material obtained. On the one hand, pectin is extracted stepwise using hot water, chelating agents and low-alkaline conditions targeting fractionation of the pectin population. On the other hand, an industrially relevant single-step nitric acid pectin extraction (pH 1.6) is performed. In addition to these conventional solvent pectin extractions, the role of high-pressure homogenization (HPH) as a physically disruptive treatment to facilitate further pectin extraction from the partially pectin-depleted fraction obtained after acid extraction is addressed. The impact of HPH on the pectin cell wall polysaccharide interactions was shown as almost two thirds of the residual pectin were extractable during the subsequent extractions. For both extraction approaches, pectin obtained further in the sequence was characterized by a higher molecular mass and a higher amount of rhamnogalacturonan I domains. The estimated hemicellulose and cellulose content increased from 56 mol% for the AIR to almost 90 mol% for the final unextractable fractions of both methods.
Investigation of COVID-19 Impact on the Food and Beverages Industry: China and India Perspective
Authors: Memon Shafique Ul Rehman , Pawase Vijayanta Ramesh , Pavase Tushar Ramesh , Soomro Maqsood Ahmed
Published: May 2021

The sudden breakout of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) rapidly spread across the globe, leaving no country behind in being affected by the global pandemic in the year 2019–20. As COVID-19 commenced, within months two major Asian giants initiated the norms of social distancing and lockdowns in their societies. The indiscriminate nature of the current pandemic has not only impacted the health and quality of life of people but has also disrupted the global economy, supply chains, and countries all over the world. In food and beverage manufacturing industries, the unanticipated disruption has encumbered its lock on the global food supply chain and service sector as major cities shut down for several months in China and India. Human existence is dependent upon food, which renders energy for activity, growth, and all functions of the body. Although both China and India have shown eminent response to tackle the ongoing pandemic, the food supply chain remains vastly exposed to significant COVID-19 risks. This research primarily investigates the ongoing COVID-19 scenario in two major economies (China and India), delivering insight into the pandemic’s impact within the food and beverage manufacturing sectors, and explores the policies adopted and strategies undertaken for sustainability in food supply chains.
Multiscale Quantification of Tsunami Hazard Exposure in a Pacific Small Island Developing State: The Case of Samoa
Authors: Williams Shaun , Paulik Ryan , Weaving Rebecca , Bosserelle Cyprien , Chan Ting Josephina , Wall Kieron , Simi Titimanu , Scheele Finn
Published: May 2021

This study presents a scenario-based approach for identifying and comparing tsunami exposure across different sociopolitical scales. In Samoa, a country with a high threat to local tsunamis, we apply scenarios for the 2009 South Pacific tsunami inundation at different grid resolutions (50 and 10 m) to quantify building and road exposure at the national, district and village levels. We show that while the coarser 50 m model is adequate for use in the rapid identification of exposure at the national and district levels, it can overestimate exposure by up to three times more at the village level. Overestimation typically occurs in areas characterized by flat, low-lying, gentle-rising terrain. Overall, a 35% increase in buildings exposed to the 50 m model is observed compared with the 10 m scenario on southeast Upolu island. Similarly, a 31% increase in road exposure is observed for the 50 m scenario. These observations are discussed within the context of tsunami evacuation planning and logistics. Notwithstanding the variability in exposure, a precautionary approach leads us to conclude that while higher-resolution models are recommended where available data and/or financial resources permit, the absence of such datasets should not preclude the use of coarser hazard datasets in risk assessments. Finer-resolution models provide more credence in detailed local-level exposure evaluation. While the results of this study are specific to the Samoan context, the results can be applied to the multiscale assessment of tsunami risk exposure in similar hazard contexts.
Record of Crustal Thickening and Synconvergent Extension from the Dajiamang Tso Rift, Southern Tibet
Authors: Burke William B. , Laskowski Andrew K. , Orme Devon A. , Sundell Kurt E. , Taylor Michael H. , Guo Xudong , Ding Lin
Published: May 2021

North-trending rifts throughout south-central Tibet provide an opportunity to study the dynamics of synconvergent extension in contractional orogenic belts. In this study, we present new data from the Dajiamang Tso rift, including quantitative crustal thickness estimates calculated from trace/rare earth element zircon data, U-Pb geochronology, and zircon-He thermochronology. These data constrain the timing and rates of exhumation in the Dajiamang Tso rift and provide a basis for evaluating dynamic models of synconvergent extension. Our results also provide a semi-continuous record of Mid-Cretaceous to Miocene evolution of the Himalayan-Tibetan orogenic belt along the India-Asia suture zone. We report igneous zircon U-Pb ages of ~103 Ma and 70–42 Ma for samples collected from the Xigaze forearc basin and Gangdese Batholith/Linzizong Formation, respectively. Zircon-He cooling ages of forearc rocks in the hanging wall of the Great Counter thrust are ~28 Ma, while Gangdese arc samples in the footwalls of the Dajiamang Tso rift are 16–8 Ma. These data reveal the approximate timing of the switch from contraction to extension along the India-Asia suture zone (minimum 16 Ma). Crustal-thickness trends from zircon geochemistry reveal possible crustal thinning (to ~40 km) immediately prior to India-Eurasia collision onset (58 Ma). Following initial collision, crustal thickness increases to 50 km by 40 Ma with continued thickening until the early Miocene supported by regional data from the Tibetan Magmatism Database. Current crustal thickness estimates based on geophysical observations show no evidence for crustal thinning following the onset of E–W extension (~16 Ma), suggesting that modern crustal thickness is likely facilitated by an underthrusting Indian lithosphere balanced by upper plate extension.
Prevalence of Psychological Distress and Its Risk Factors in Patients with Primary Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors
Authors: Ise Masato , Nakata Eiji , Katayama Yoshimi , Hamada Masanori , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Fujiwara Tomohiro , Nakahara Ryuichi , Takihira Shouta , Sato Kohei , Akezaki Yoshiteru , Senda Masuo , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: May 2021

Psychological distress is common in patients with soft tissue and bone tumors. We first investigated its frequency and the associated risk factors in patients with pre-operative bone and soft tissue tumors. Participants included 298 patients with bone and soft tissue tumors who underwent surgery in our institution between 2015 and 2020. Psychological distress was evaluated by the Distress and Impact Thermometer (DIT) that consists of two types of questions (questions about the severity of the patient’s distress (DIT-D) and its impact (DIT-I)). We used a cut-off point of 4 on the DIT-D and 3 on the DIT-I for screening patients with psychological distress. We therefore investigated: (1) the prevalence of psychological distress as assessed with DIT or distress thermometer (DT), which can be decided by DIT-D ≥ 4, (2) what are the risk factors for the prevalence of psychological distress, and (3) what is the number of patients who consulted a psychiatrist for psychological distress in patients with pre-operative bone and soft tissue tumors. With DIT and DT, we identified 64 patients (21%) and 95 patients (32%), respectively, with psychological distress. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that older age, sex (female), malignancy (malignant or intermediate tumor), a lower Barthel Index, and higher numeric rating scale were risk factors for psychological distress. Two patients (3%) consulted a psychiatrist after surgery. In conclusion, careful attention to psychological distress is needed, especially for female patients, older patients, and those with malignant soft or bone tissue tumors who have more than moderate pain.
Facilitating Interprofessional Education in an Online Environment during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed Method Study
Authors: Singh Jitendra , Matthees Barbara
Published: May 2021

With the COVID-19 crisis and rapid increase in cases, the need for interprofessional education (IPE) and collaborative practice is more important than ever. Instructors and health professionals are exploring innovative methods to deliver IPE programs in online education This paper presents a mixed methods study where an interprofessional education program was delivered/taught using online instruction. Using a survey/questionnaire adapted from the Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scale (RIPLS) and qualitative discussions, students’ readiness towards online IPE program and the importance of such preparation was examined. Out of two hundred fifteen students who completed the IPE program, one hundred eighty five students from clinical and non-clinical health disciplines responded to the questionnaire (86.04% response rate). Additional qualitative content analysis was conducted on a total of seven hundred and thirty six online discussions. Data analysis across all the four subscales of RIPLS suggests that students felt positively about teamwork and collaboration, and valued opportunities for shared learning with other healthcare students. Qualitative data analysis demonstrated that IPE increases awareness of team members’ roles, enhances communication and collaboration and can lead to better care for COVID-19 patients.
Evaluation of Blood Stool Test Utilization for Colorectal Cancer Screening in Georgia, USA
Authors: Ansa Benjamin E. , Lewis Nicollette , Hoffman Zachary , Datta Biplab , Johnson J. Aaron
Published: May 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States (USA). Early screening has been demonstrated to improve clinical outcomes for CRC. Assessing patterns in CRC screening utilization is important for guiding policy and implementing programs for CRC prevention and control. This study examines the trends and sociodemographic factors associated with blood stool test utilization (BSTU) for CRC screening in Georgia, USA. The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data were analyzed for Average Annual Percent Change (AAPC) in BSTU between 1997 and 2014 among adults aged 50+ who have had a blood stool test within the past two years, and logistic regression analysis of the 2016 data was performed to identify the associated sociodemographic factors. In Georgia, an overall decrease was observed in BSTU, from 27.8% in 1997 to 16.1% in 2014 (AAPC = −2.6, p = 0.023). The decrease in BSTU was less pronounced in Georgia than nationally (from 26.1% in 1997 to 12.8% in 2014 (AAPC = −4.5, p < 0.001)). BSTU was significantly associated with black race/ethnicity (Black vs. White (aOR = 1.43, p = 0.015)), older age (≥70 vs. 50–59 (aOR = 1.62, p = 0.006)), having insurance coverage (no vs. yes (aOR = 0.37 p = 0.005)), and lower income (≥USD 50,000 vs. <USD 25,000 (aOR = 0.70 p = 0.050)). These findings reveal a decrease over time in BSTU in Georgia, with existing differences between sociodemographic groups. Understanding these patterns helps in directing tailored programs for promoting CRC screening, especially among disadvantaged populations.
Effect of e-Health Literacy on COVID-19 Infection-Preventive Behaviors of Undergraduate Students Majoring in Healthcare
Authors: Hong Kyung Jin , Park Noo Lee , Heo Soo Yeon , Jung Seo Hyun , Lee Ye Been , Hwang Ji Hoon
Published: May 2021

This study examined and verified the level of e-health literacy (e-HL) and infection preventive behaviors related to COVID-19 among undergraduate students majoring in healthcare. An online survey was conducted with 274 university students majoring in nursing, clinical pathology, and occupational therapy in South Korea. The e-HL consisted of functional, communicational, and critical literacy, and preventive behaviors were based on the Prevention Guideline on Droplet Infection. The mean score for e-HL was 3.62, with nursing students obtaining the highest scores. The overall e-HL score and the scores on its three sub-dimensions were related to infection-preventive behaviors. Moreover, e-HL affected infection-preventive behaviors (p < 0.001). Findings from this study highlight the necessity of education for improving the e-HL of undergraduate students majoring in healthcare to strengthen infection-preventive behaviors and protect patients from infectious diseases.
The Nitrogen Budget of Coastal Eastern Guangdong in the Last 15 Years
Authors: Su Yongsong , Song Song , Xie Lichun , He Zhenyu
Published: May 2021

Nitrogen pollution has caused severe ecological and environmental crisis, especially in densely populated coastal regions. Using a mathematical model based on statistical data series from industry, agriculture, environmental protection, and population in 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2015, this paper aims to estimate the nitrogen income and expenditure of coastal Eastern Guangdong, to reveal the temporal variation of the nitrogen budget in the coastal region with high agriculture intensity, and to suggest a management strategy for the local nitrogen control. The results show that: coastal Eastern Guangdong is a nitrogen surplus region, with nitrogen load and nitrogen flux varying in the range 276.01–299.60 kg N ha−1 yr−1 and 221.26–239.06 kg N ha−1 yr−1, respectively, during the period 2000–2015; from 2000 to 2015, the overall nitrogen surplus and the nitrogen surplus unit area showed an obvious upward trend, indicating that nitrogen pollution in the area was deteriorating; agricultural used fertilizer serves as the main contributor to nitrogen input, while water nitrogen accounts for the highest portion of nitrogen output; despite the fluctuation of nitrogen input and output, water nitrogen output steadily increased, suggesting a stronger water environment management requirement. This research provides reference for researchers and decision-makers in the ecological and environmental domains.
Geospatial Decision-Making Framework Based on the Concept of Satisficing
Authors: Milutinović Goran , Seipel Stefan , Ahonen-Jonnarth Ulla
Published: May 2021

Decision-making methods used in geospatial decision making are computationally complex prescriptive methods, the details of which are rarely transparent to the decision maker. However, having a deep understanding of the details and mechanisms of the applied method is a prerequisite for the efficient use thereof. In this paper, we present a novel decision-making framework that emanates from the need for intuitive and easy-to-use decision support systems for geospatial multi-criteria decision making. The framework consists of two parts: the decision-making model Even Swaps on Reduced Data Sets (ESRDS), and the interactive visualization framework. The decision-making model is based on the concept of satisficing, and as such, it is intuitive and easy to understand and apply. It integrates even swaps, a prescriptive decision-making method, with the findings of behavioural decision-making theories. Providing visual feedback and interaction opportunities throughout the decision-making process, the interactive visualization part of the framework helps the decision maker gain better insight into the decision space and attribute dependencies. Furthermore, it provides the means to analyse and compare the outcomes of different scenarios and decision paths.
Vectorization of Floor Plans Based on EdgeGAN
Authors: Dong Shuai , Wang Wei , Li Wensheng , Zou Kun
Published: May 2021

A 2D floor plan (FP) often contains structural, decorative, and functional elements and annotations. Vectorization of floor plans (VFP) is an object detection task that involves the localization and recognition of different structural primitives in 2D FPs. The detection results can be used to generate 3D models directly. The conventional pipeline of VFP often consists of a series of carefully designed complex algorithms with insufficient generalization ability and suffer from low computing speed. Considering the VFP is not suitable for deep learning-based object detection frameworks, this paper proposed a new VFP framework to solve this problem based on a generative adversarial network (GAN). First, a private dataset called ZSCVFP is established. Unlike current public datasets that only own not more than 5000 black and white samples, ZSCVFP contains 10,800 colorful samples disturbed by decorative textures in different styles. Second, a new edge-extracting GAN (EdgeGAN) is designed for the new task by formulating the VFP task as an image translation task innovatively that involves the projection of the original 2D FPs into a primitive space. The output of EdgeGAN is a primitive feature map, each channel of which only contains one category of the detected primitives in the form of lines. A self-supervising term is introduced to the generative loss of EdgeGAN to ensure the quality of generated images. EdgeGAN is faster than the conventional and object-detection-framework-based pipeline with minimal performance loss. Lastly, two inspection modules that are also suitable for conventional pipelines are proposed to check the connectivity and consistency of PFM based on the subspace connective graph (SCG). The first module contains four criteria that correspond to the sufficient conditions of a fully connected graph. The second module that classifies the category of all subspaces via one single graph neural network (GNN) should be consistent with the text annotations in the original FP (if available). The reason is that GNN treats the adjacent matrix of SCG as weights directly. Thus, GNN can utilize the global layout information and achieve higher accuracy than other common classifying methods. Experimental results are given to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed EdgeGAN and inspection approaches.
Diel Rhythmicity of Field Responses to Synthetic Pheromone Lures in the Pine Sawyer Monochamus saltuarius
Authors: Kim Junheon , Jung Young Hak , Lee Sang-Myeong
Published: May 2021

The pine wood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, causes lethal pine wilt disease (PWD) in Asia and Europe and has become a serious threat to global pine forest ecosystems. In Korea, Monochamus saltuarius transmits PWN not only to Pinus densiflora, but also to Pinus koraiensis, which is widely distributed across eastern Asia. The diel rhythmicity of M. saltuarius in response to its aggregation pheromone was studied with the aim of providing reliable data for the prevention of PWD and control of Monochamus spp. Using a spray dispenser controlled with an electronic timer, M. saltuarius pheromone and attractants (PA) were sprayed to determine the diel rhythm of the response to PA. The spraying period was divided into four time periods: 05:00–11:00 (time period A), 11:00–17:00 (time period B), 17:00–23:00 (time period C), and 23:00–05:00 (time period D). The largest number of M. saltuarius was caught in time period B, followed by A, C, and D. It could be concluded that the flight activity of M. saltuarius in response to PA was diurnal. The results of this study improve the understanding of the behavioral biology of M. saltuarius, allowing for the development of pest management strategies to prevent the spread of PWN and control its vector.
Uric Acid—An Emergent Risk Marker for Thrombosis?
Authors: Țăpoi Laura , Șalaru Delia Lidia , Sascău Radu , Stătescu Cristian
Published: May 2021

Hyperuricemia is nowadays an established cardiovascular risk factor. Experimental studies linked elevated serum uric acid (SUA) levels with endothelial dysfunction (ED), inflammation, and prothrombotic state. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current evidence that emphasizes the possible role of uric acid as a biomarker for a prothrombotic state. A large number of clinical trials correlated SUA levels with both incident and recurrent cases of venous thromboembolism (VTE), independent of other confounding risk factors. Moreover, increased SUA levels may be an important tool for the risk stratification of patients with pulmonary embolism (PE). Left atrial thrombosis was correlated with high SUA levels in several studies and its addition to classical risk scores improved their predictive abilities. In patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI), hyperuricemia was associated with increased mortality, and the idea that hyperuricemia may be able to act as a surrogate to unstable coronary plaques was advanced. Finally, SUA was correlated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events in different systemic diseases. In conclusion, uric acid has been considered a marker of a thrombotic milieu in several clinical scenarios. However, this causality is still controversial, and more experimental and clinical data is needed.
Serotonin Pathway of Tryptophan Metabolism in Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth—A Pilot Study with Patients Diagnosed with Lactulose Hydrogen Breath Test and Treated with Rifaximin
Authors: Chojnacki Cezary , Popławski Tomasz , Konrad Paulina , Fila Michal , Chojnacki Jan , Błasiak Janusz
Published: May 2021

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition associated with diverse clinical conditions and there is no gold standard in its diagnosis and treatment. Tryptophan (Trp) metabolism may be involved in etiology of gastrointestinal diseases and is regulated by intestinal microbiota. In our study we investigated aspects of the serotonin (5-HT) pathway of Trp metabolism in three groups of individuals based on the hydrogen concentration in the lactulose hydrogen breath test (LHBT): controls (<20 ppm) and SIBO patients (≥20 ppm), with diarrhea (SIBO-D) or constipation (SIBO-C). The SIBO-D patients showed an increased serum concentration of 5-HT and small intestinal mucosa mRNA expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH-1), a rate-limiting enzyme in 5-HT biosynthesis. Urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), the main metabolite of 5-HT, was higher in both group of SIBO patients than controls. A positive correlation between 5-HIAA and LHBT was observed. A two-week treatment with rifaximin decreased hydrogen in LHBT and 5-HIAA concentration in SIBO patients. In conclusion, the serotonin pathway of Trp metabolism may play a role in the pathogenesis of hydrogen-positive SIBO and it may influence the diversification of SIBO into variants with diarrhea or constipation. As urinary 5-HIAA concentration correlates with LHBT, TPH-1 expression in colonic mucosa and TH-5 in serum of SIBO patients, it can be considered as a non-invasive marker of this condition.
Virologic Response to Very Early HIV Treatment in Neonates
Authors: Shiau Stephanie , Strehlau Renate , Shen Yanhan , He Yun , Patel Faeezah , Burke Megan , Abrams Elaine J. , Tiemessen Caroline T. , Wang Shuang , Kuhn Louise
Published: May 2021

Factors that influence viral response when antiretroviral therapy (ART) is initiated in neonates are not well characterized. We assessed if there is consistency in predictive factors when operationalizing viral response using different methods. Data were collected from a clinical study in South Africa that started ART in neonates within 14 days of birth (2013–2018). Among 61 infants followed for ≥48 weeks after ART initiation, viral response through 72 weeks was defined by three methods: (1) clinical endpoints (virologic success, rebound, and failure); (2) time to viral suppression, i.e., any viral load (VL: copies/mL) <400, <50, or target not detected (TND) using time-to-event methods; and (3) latent class growth analysis (LCGA) to empirically estimate discrete groups with shared patterns of VL trajectories over time. We investigated the following factors: age at ART initiation, sex, birthweight, preterm birth, mode of delivery, breastfeeding, pre-treatment VL and CD4, maternal ART during pregnancy, and maternal VL and CD4 count. ART was initiated 0–48 h of birth among 57.4% of the infants, 48 h–7 days in 29.5% and 8–14 days in 13.1%. By Method 1, infants were categorized into ‘success’ (54.1%), ‘rebound’ (21.3%), and ‘failure’ (24.6%) for viral response. For Method 2, median time to achieving a VL <400, <50, or TND was 58, 123, and 331 days, respectively. For Method 3, infants were categorized into three trajectories: ‘rapid decline’ (29.5%), ‘slow decline’ (47.5%), and ‘persistently high’ (23.0%). All methods found that higher pre-treatment VL, particularly >100,000, was associated with less favorable viral outcomes. No exposure to maternal ART was associated with a better viral response, while a higher maternal VL was associated with less favorable viral response and higher maternal CD4 was associated with better viral response across all three methods. The LCGA method found that infants who initiated ART 8–14 days had less favorable viral response than those who initiated ART earlier. The other two methods trended in a similar direction. Across three methods to operationalize viral response in the context of early infant treatment, findings of factors associated with viral response were largely consistent, including infant pre-treatment VL, maternal VL, and maternal CD4 count.