bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RFID Tag Data Encryption Using Triple DES and RSA Algorithms
Authors: Lim Gian Carlo L. , Arada Gerald P. , Abad Alexander C. , Magsino Elmer R.
Published: August 2021

With the future full shift to cashless and contactless toll fee collection in the Philippines, installation of radio frequency identification (RFID) readers at toll plazas and tags on all vehicles is the most practicable solution. The Department of Transportation recently implemented this initiative to help minimize the transmission of COVID-19. RFID tags in the forms of stickers contains the motorist’s account number which if hacked can be used to access other important details about the owner. With the weak security of these tags, possible instances that information from RFID tags could be accessed. Information derived from these can be easily retrieved if the attacker has access to the tags' data. The worst thing is that public access to the database that contains essential information concerning the holder's account. In this paper, the authors aim to provide more information about tag ID’s encryption that is limited to RFID usage in the Philippine expressways. An algorithm devised by the authors well secures the information contained in the RFID tags.
Correlation Analysis of Emotional EEG In Alpha, Beta and Gamma Frequency Bands
Authors: Choong W Y , Khairunizam W , Mustafa W A , Murugappan M , Hamid A , Bong S Z , Yuvaraj R , Omar M I , Junoh A K , Ali Hasimah , Razlan Z M , Shahriman A B
Published: August 2021

It is aimed at finding the correlation between EEG channels from six induced emotions in normal subjects. The multichannel EEG data was measured by Pearson’s correlation coefficient to investigate the linear relationship between channel pairs in alpha, beta and gamma EEG frequency sub-bands. The EEG data were collected from 12 healthy subjects, with six induced emotions by audio-visual stimuli, which were anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness and surprise. The 14-channel wireless Emotiv Epoc was used for data collection. The results show that the EEG channels in alpha band was relatively higher correlation than in beta and gamma bands. The highest correlation for all emotions in alpha band were the channel pairs in right frontal region, FC6-F4 and F4-AF4. In beta and gamma bands, the highest correlation pairs involved the right frontal, occipital and parietal regions, which were FC6-F4 and O2-P8.
Microstepping synchronization via hybridization of Mamdani’s Fuzzy Logic for the plasmonic tracker
Authors: Abdullah M.R. , Harun N.H. , Raof Rafikha Aliana A.
Published: August 2021

A plasmonic tracker had been developed for a plasmonic energy detection. It serves to determine resonance angle and refractive index of a dielectric material. A microstepping is required for scanning the reflected beam at a high resolution. Therefore, a precise control is crucial to align the photodiode parallel to the reflected laser beam at smallest angle displacement in a single rotation. The objective are to: 1- Synchronize two bipolar stepper motors for annular / rotational stage via the microstepping, 2- Determine the delay interval with Mamdani’s FIS and 3-Evaluate the Fuzzy Logic Controller in the MATLAB Simulink interface. Hybridization of Mamdani’s Fuzzy Logic was applied to determine appropriate delay interval for the Plasmonic Tracker. Two input variables and one output variable respectively were defined as Error, Change Error and Delay. Time delays interval were varied from 0.1s to 1s for synchronizing different microstepping resolution. The annular / rotary stages cater 8000 / 3200 microsteps at 0.045° / 0.1125° at a single rotation. Both stages cater a 7.5 ms per cycle for 360° span of angular interrogation within 60 second. Therefore, step sizes is matched with gear ratio of 2.5 with respective pulse for rotary stage / annular stage were 1 ms and 2 ms / 3 ms per cycle. MATLAB results was compared to centroid calculation and Simulink results The Fuzzy logic had demonstrates an efficient control, instant response and outstanding conversion based on the expert rule-based system.
A Novel Design of Robotic hand Based on Bird Claw Model
Authors: Nabi Fizza Ghulam , Sundaraj Kenneth , Vijean Vikneswaran , Shafiq Muhammad , Planiappan Rajkumar , Talib Irsa , Rehman Hakeem Ur
Published: August 2021

Robots are the best replacement of man power in every field of life because they can work with a better efficiency under hard environments. Recently, plenty of work has been carried out on mimicking the human hand motion. However, most of the designers emphasized on designing new actuating system with less degree of freedom or reduce number of actuators along with enhanced performance. Bird claw motion is a natural example with simpler design and has many advantages over human hand such as less number of joints, easy structure and better grip. In this manuscript we propose a robot model which is based on a pigeon’s claw and a hardware structure is implemented to verify that the proposed model contain almost half joints than a human hand and hence offers much lower cost along with easier management. Furthermore, smaller size of the palm also facilitates in handling small items. We have presented software and hardware model of a pigeon’s claw in support of the argument.
Effect of alternating shielding gases in gas metal arc welding of SA515 Gr 70 carbon steel
Authors: Mariappan M , Parthasarathi N L , Ravindran R , Lenin K , Raja A
Published: August 2021

The influence of alternating shielding gas on fusion characteristics and weld metal characteristics was examined using a solid wire electrode on SA515Gr 70 carbon steel (ER70S). To improve the efficiency of the traditional GMAW process, two shielding gases of Argon and CO2 were supplied independently to the GMAW torch using a gas alternator unit with a predetermined frequency to the weld area. The weld quality was found to be improved by the periodic variation of the arc. The weld pool dynamics got refined by the enhanced thermo physical properties driven by the alternating shielding gases. Based on the results of the bead on plate welding trial, optimal welding conditions were chosen to construct a single V groove butt-joint weld to characterize its strength and toughness. The alternating shielding gases delivered excellent outcomes in terms of weld bead geometry and mechanical properties in this investigation.
Polypyrrole@polyaniline-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite support material and Cobalt for the enhanced electrocatalytic activity of nickel phosphide microsphere towards alkaline urea oxidation
Authors: Lera Israel Leka , Khasnabis Sutripto , Wangatia Lodrick Makokha , Femi Olu Emmanuel , Ramamurthy Praveen C
Published: August 2021

Efficient and low-cost materials are highly demanded to improve the sluggish kinetics and stability of direct urea fuel cells for large-scale commercialization. In this study, modification of conventional nickel phoaphide (NiP) by cobalt doping via the facile solvothermal method and simultaneously dispersing prepared cobalt nickel phosphide (CoNiP) on poly (aniline-co-pyrrole)/reduced graphene oxide (PPy@PANI/rGO) as efficient and low-cost support material via simple ultrasonic/heat mediated dispersion process. The synthesized catalysts were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and an x-ray diffractometer. Furthermore, Cyclic Voltammetry tests were conducted to evaluate the performance of synthesized catalysis towards alkaline urea oxidation. The physical characterization depicts the successful formation of NiP and Co-doped NiP microsphere with a particle size of 4.306 μm and 2.04 μm, respectively. In addition, homogeneous distribution of the CoNiP microsphere in the structure of PPy@PANI/rGO support material was achieved. Based on the CV test, the superior electrocatalytic performance of CoNiP@PPy@PANI/rGO electrode material with a potential of 0.414V versus SCE to drive a high current density of 26.92 mAcm−2, lower onset potential of 0.204 V versus SCE, and higher electrochemically active surface area of 2.08 × 10–1 cm2mg−1 were achieved. Furthermore, the electrochemical activities, kinetics, and stability of CoNiP@PPy@PANI/rGO remarkably outperformed the commercial NiP and CoNiP towards alkaline urea electro-oxidation. Therefore, a novel material, CoNiP@PPy@PANI/rGO, is an excellent candidate for anode electrode material in direct urea fuel cells.
Messages scrambled by black holes stand their ground
Authors: Marks Jacob
Published: August 2021

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory in the US have shown that once a message has been scrambled by a black hole or other system with similar properties, not even a quantum computer can put it back together
New leader for Scottish astronomy
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: August 2021

Catherine Heymans has been appointed Astronomer Royal for Scotland – the first woman to hold the role in its 187-year history, as Michael Banks reports
Laureates demand urgent climate action
Authors: Gwynne Peter
Published: August 2021

Global leaders must take “urgent” action to halve emissions of greenhouse gases and reverse the loss of nature by 2030
Beware of the ‘alliars’
Authors: Lawrence Anya
Published: August 2021

While some people claim to want to support under-represented groups, Anya Lawrence says it can be difficult to determine whether they have the right motives
The time of Earth’s life
Authors: Smith Cyril
Published: August 2021

In response to David Appell’s review of Seven Pillars of Science by John Gribbin (April pp46–47), which discusses the experiments of Stanley Miller and Harold Urey. They created amino acids after just a week by mixing water, ammonia, methane and hydrogen, which suggested that living things are made of the same matter as everything else – and that there is no special “life force”
Replicating how plants move
Authors: Rayneau-Kirkhope Daniel
Published: August 2021

Once studied by Charles Darwin, the Venus flytrap is perhaps the most famous plant that moves at high speed. But as Daniel Rayneau-Kirkhope explains, researchers are still unearthing new scientific insights into plant motion, which could lead to novel, bio-inspired robotic structures
No man is an island
Authors: Prescod-Weinstein Chanda
Published: August 2021

Chanda Prescod-Weinstein reviews Helgoland by Carlo Rovelli
A-140 Computer Based Cognitive Rehabilitation Interventions for Visual Attention Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Westphal Alia , Bailie Jason , Caswell Melissa , Lopez Juan , Basham Angela , Babakhanyan Ida
Published: August 2021

Background

Service members with a history of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) frequently report problems paying attention. In combat and training settings, visual attention is critical given the demand to warfighter performance. Many computerized cognitive rehabilitation programs exist, however the impact of their effectiveness on improving visual attention is unknown.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial consisted of 22 active-duty service members with a history of mTBI. Participants were randomized to Lumosity (N = 8) which focused on multiple cognitive domains or UCR which has a specific focus on visual attention (N = 14). Cognitive assessment was completed at baseline and following treatment. The Neuropsychological Assessment Battery (NAB) Driving Scenes subtest was used as the primary assessment of visual attention. All participants passed a validity measure pre and post assessment.

Results

A one-way ANOVA revealed that performance on NAB Driving Scenes improved for all participants after treatment (F = 4.18, p = 0.046); however, when computer program type was analyzed there was no interaction (F = 0.32, p = 0.860). Participants who completed the UCR intervention improved from M = 41.64, SD = 11.58 to M = 46.79, SD = 14.52, Cohen’s d = 0.43. For the Lumosity condition, there was a medium effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.46) from baseline (M = 38.63, SD = 14.33) to post treatment (M = 44.75, SD = 9.47)

Conclusions

The results indicated that both programs proved effective at improving visual attention symptoms. These findings provide support for the use of computerized cognitive rehabilitation programs as a form of intervention for mTBI.
A-163 Utility of the 7/24 Spatial Recall Test in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Bolden Lauren , Willment Kim
Published: August 2021

Objective

To examine the utility of the 7/24 Spatial Recall Test (7/24) in the assessment of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients who have not undergone surgical resection. We hypothesized that patients with right TLE (RTLE) would perform significantly worse on the 7/24 than patients with left TLE (LTLE), but better on measures of verbal memory and naming.

Participants and Methods

Twenty-one patients with RTLE and 17 patients with LTLE were identified from a larger dataset of 152 epilepsy patients who underwent comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Exclusion criteria included: 1) Extratemporal, bitemporal, or unclear seizure onset, 2) Post-surgical evaluations, and 3) Co-morbid neurodegenerative or neurological conditions. The Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RVLT) and Boston Naming Test (BNT) and were selected as outcome measures of verbal memory and naming, respectively.

Results

Independent samples t-tests revealed that patients with RTLE performed significantly worse on the 7/24 delayed recall than LTLE patients (p = 0.026), but there were no significant differences between groups in their 7/24 immediate recall across trials (p = 0.118). As predicted, patients with LTLE performed significantly worse than RTLE patients on the BNT (p = 0.005), however no significant differences were found between groups on the RVLT total learning, short delay, or long delay.

Conclusions

These findings support the use of the 7/24 for assessing nonverbal memory in patients with TLE, and more specifically, suggest that the 7/24 may be a sensitive measure for detecting lateralized dysfunction of the right temporal lobe in TLE patients.
A-20 Frailty Is Associated with Decreased Social–Emotional Functioning in People with HIV: A National Institutes of Health Toolbox Emotion Battery Study
Authors: Sun-Suslow Ni , Watson C Wei-Ming , Iudicello Jennifer , Heaton Robert K , Morgan Erin E
Published: August 2021

Objective

People with HIV (PWH) are more likely to experience problematic emotions and are at increased risk for frailty. In the general population, frailty is broadly associated with worse social–emotional functioning. However, the extent of this dysfunction has largely been isolated to depression and these relationships have yet to be examined among PWH. Thus, this study examined associations between frailty and summary factor scores developed from the National Institutes of Health Toolbox Emotion Battery (NIH-TB-EB) among PWH.

Method

Participants were 320 PWH (mean age = 52.3, SD = 12.7). Three previously validated composite scores from the NIH-TB-EB were used to assess social–emotional functioning: negative affect, social satisfaction, and psychological well-being. Using the Fried Phenotype, the sample was dichotomized into non-frail (n = 155) and prefrail/frail (n = 165) groups. Multiple regression was used to examine the association between frailty and social–emotional functioning. Covariates included age, estimated duration of HIV infection, antiretroviral therapy (ART) status, and antidepressant medication count.

Results

Being prefrail/frail was associated with increased negative affect (B = 0.26, p < 0.001), decreased social satisfaction (B = -0.18, p = 0.002), and decreased psychological well-being (B = -0.25, p < 0.001). Increased age was associated with decreased negative affect (B = -0.17, p = 0.002), and was unrelated to social satisfaction and psychological well-being. Estimated duration of infection, ART status, and antidepressant use were not associated with social–emotional functioning.

Conclusions

Pre-frail/frail PWH have worse social–emotional functioning, above and beyond age, duration of HIV disease, ART status, and antidepressant use. This suggests both frailty and poor social–emotional functioning may be important targets to screen and treat in order to improve prognosis and quality of life for PWH.
A-50 Representation and Generalizability in Neuropsychologically-Focused Multiple Sclerosis Research: Who Are we Studying and Who Does it Apply to?
Authors: Román Cristina A F , Pillemer Sarah
Published: August 2021

Objective

MS impacts individuals from diverse racial/ethnic groups, yet they are not always well represented in research. The objectives of the current study are to examine how often neuropsychologically-focused MS research (NFMSR) studies: (1) include diverse populations; (2) explicitly describe the race/ethnicity of their participants; and (3) discuss generalizability/cultural implications.

Methods

A sample of NFMSR studies (defined here as studies examining cognitive functioning, mood, neuroimaging, fatigue, and quality of life) published within major journals between 2017–2020 were identified. Articles focusing on clinically isolated syndrome or pediatric populations were excluded. Variables of interest included sample size, sex/gender, race/ethnicity, age, education, socioeconomic status (SES), generalizability/cultural limitations, discussion of racism/disparities, and recruitment procedures. Data were coded and analyzed in IBM’s Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS; version 27).

Results

Race/ethnicity was not often reported in NFMSR studies, and when described, the representation of diverse individuals with MS was low (i.e., samples were mostly Caucasian). In addition, specific information about recruitment methods and SES was lacking. Generalizability/cultural implications or disparities were not discussed in the majority of studies. Report of education was variable, while sex, age, disease course, and EDSS were more often reported.

Conclusions

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to highlight the significant gaps in representation in NFMSR. These results have significant implications for how we should be using the current literature to characterize patients or guide treatments. In addition, the current study serves as a call to action for MS researchers to work toward more inclusive and generalizable studies.
A-59 Psychosis and Coma in COVID-19: A Case Report
Authors: Kotlarz Parker , Nabulsi Yasmine B , Cahill Joseph
Published: August 2021

Objective

The objective of this case is to spotlight the potential neurological andneuropsychiatric symptoms associated with COVID-19.

Method

A 55-year-old African American male with a history of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obesity, tobacco use, and hypertension voluntarily presented to the local hospital with auditoryhallucinations and delusions. During an inpatient stay, the patient developed symptomsconsistent with COVID-19 and subsequently tested positive for the virus. Thirty-nine days after the initial positive COVID-19 test result, he remained in a coma with retained brainstem responses. An EEG demonstrated encephalopathy and MRI showed multiple, well-circumscribed white matter lesions consistent with acute demyelination (Figure 1). After three days of high-dose steroids and over a month in a coma, the patient began following simple commands. Unfortunately, on hospital day 66, the patient developed sudden hypotension and worsening respiratory status.

Results

While psychotic episodes in relation to COVID-19 are not widely reported, psychotic episodes are shown in three COVID-19 cases. Other reports have found significant changes in consciousness in COVID-19 patients with delayed awakening from a comatose state. Pre-existing inflammatory responses in those with psychiatric disease may be accelerated by the immune response due to COVID-19.

Conclusion

Mental status changes in those with psychiatric illness who have COVID-19 are worth exploring. It is unclear whether a history of COVID-19 may accelerate a neuropsychiatric process or other central nervous system diseases. Future research may want to examine the possible interrelationship between pre-existing neurological vulnerabilities and COVID-19. The possibility of high-dose steroid treatment for COVID-19 neuroinflammatory complications should be considered.
Challenges in cardiovascular pharmacogenomics implementation: a viewpoint from the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Magavern Emma F , Kaski Juan Carlos , Turner Richard M , Drexel Heinz , Janmohamed Azara , Scourfield Andrew , Burrage Daniel , Floyd Christopher N , Adeyeye Elizabeth , Tamargo Juan , Lewis Basil S , Kjeldsen Keld Per , Niessner Alexander , Wassmann Sven , Sulzgruber Patrick , Borry Pascal , Agewall Stefan , Semb Anne Grete , Savarese Gianluigi , Pirmohamed Munir , Caulfield Mark J
Published: August 2021

Pharmacogenomics promises to advance cardiovascular therapy, but there remain pragmatic barriers to implementation. These are particularly important to explore within Europe, as there are differences in the populations, availability of resources, and expertise, as well as in ethico-legal frameworks. Differences in healthcare delivery across Europe present a challenge, but also opportunities to collaborate on pharmacogenomics implementation. Clinical workforce upskilling is already in progress but will require substantial input. Digital infrastructure and clinical support tools are likely to prove crucial. It is important that widespread implementation serves to narrow rather than widen any existing gaps in health equality between populations. This viewpoint supplements the working group position paper on cardiovascular pharmacogenomics to address these important themes.
Artificial Intelligence for Biology
Authors: Hassoun Soha , Jefferson Felicia , Shi Xinghua , Stucky Brian , Wang Jin , Rosa Epaminondas
Published: August 2021

Synopsis

Despite efforts to integrate research across different subdisciplines of biology, the scale of integration remains limited. We hypothesize that future generations of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies specifically adapted for biological sciences will help enable the reintegration of biology. AI technologies will allow us not only to collect, connect, and analyze data at unprecedented scales, but also to build comprehensive predictive models that span various subdisciplines. They will make possible both targeted (testing specific hypotheses) and untargeted discoveries. AI for biology will be the cross-cutting technology that will enhance our ability to do biological research at every scale. We expect AI to revolutionize biology in the 21st century much like statistics transformed biology in the 20th century. The difficulties, however, are many, including data curation and assembly, development of new science in the form of theories that connect the subdisciplines, and new predictive and interpretable AI models that are more suited to biology than existing machine learning and AI techniques. Development efforts will require strong collaborations between biological and computational scientists. This white paper provides a vision for AI for Biology and highlights some challenges.
Infection Rate of Trypanosoma cruzi (Trypanosomatida: Trypanosomatidae) in Dipetalogaster maxima (Hemiptera: Reduviidae)
Authors: Flores-López Carlos Alberto , Rivas-García Lynneth , Romero-Figueroa Guillermo , Guevara-Carrizales Aldo , Peiro-Nuño Haran , López-Ordoñez Teresa , Bello-Bedoy Rafael
Published: August 2021

Chagas disease is caused by the infection of the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas, 1909). Mexico is estimated to be among the countries with the highest rates of human infections. The southernmost region of the Baja California peninsula is home to the endemic, highly aggressive, and largest Triatominae vector, thus far described: Dipetalogaster maxima (Uhler 1894). Previous single-year studies have attempted to estimate the natural infection rate of T. cruzi in this species, none encompassing a multiyear sampling design nor a species-specific diagnostic tool. We report the infection rate based on more than 717 individuals examined via a PCR species-specific diagnosis. The infection rate of T. cruzi was of 4.4% (n = 5/112), 0.9% (n = 4/411), and 4.6% (n = 9/194) for 2016, 2017, and 2018, respectively, resulting in an infection rate of 2% across all sites and years (n = 18/717).
Échelle spectroscopy of the chemically peculiar star θ1 Ori F
Authors: Costero Rafael , Allen Christine , Ruelas-Mayorga Alex , Sánchez Leonardo , Ramírez Vélez Julio , Echevarría Juan , Melgoza Gustavo C
Published: August 2021

We analyse Échelle spectra of θ1 Ori F obtained by us on six nights unevenly distributed along 6 yr; we identify several hundred spectral lines and measure, for the first time, the star’s heliocentric radial velocity. We also collect and discuss previously published photometry of θ1 Ori F. We find that θ1 Ori F is a chemically peculiar (CP) star with overabundant silicon and phosphorus, and possibly other elements as well. From the singly ionized Fe, Cr and Ti lines we estimate its spectral type to be between B7 and B8. The radial velocity of θ1 Ori F is possibly marginally variable, with an average of 24 ± 4.2 km s−1 (standard deviation), in good agreement with the mean radial velocity of the Orion Nebula Cluster members, and about 5 km s−1 smaller than the average of the other Trapezium components. We cast doubt on the coeval nature of this star relative to the other Trapezium components, and present arguments that almost certainly exclude its membership to the Orion Trapezium. θ1 Ori F turns out to be enigmatic in several respects, and is probably an important link for understanding the evolutionary stage at which the CP phenomenon sets on.
New constraints on the physical properties and dynamical history of Centaur 174P/Echeclus
Authors: Rousselot P , Kryszczyńska A , Bartczak P , Kulyk I , Kamiński K , Dudziński G , Anderson S E , Noyelles B , Guilbert-Lepoutre A
Published: August 2021

Since 2005 December, recurrent outbursts have been observed for Centaur 174/P Echeclus, confirming it is an active object. Thanks to a large number of photometric data obtained between 2001 April and 2019 December, we were able to compute a shape model of this object. We obtain a sidereal rotation period P = 26.785178 ± 10−6 h and six equally probable pole solutions, each with a large obliquity of the rotational axis (50° or more). We also find the object significantly elongated, with a semi-major axial ratio a/b = 1.32 (and b/c ∼ 1.1 but this second ratio is poorly constrained by the photometric data). Additionally, we present a detailed analysis of the dust emission from the 2016 outburst. Different colour maps are presented that reveal a change in dust colour, which becomes bluer with increasing cometocentric distance. A blue ring-like structure around the nucleus clearly visible in the images obtained on October 4 in the V-R spectral interval points out that the innermost near nucleus region is considerably redder than the surrounding coma. Different jets are also apparent, the main one being oriented southward. A detailed dynamical study is done to investigate past and future orbital elements. These elements appear stable in the period ≈1200 CE to ≈2900 CE. For a period of 12 000 yr the main conclusion is that Echeclus’ perihelion distance was greater than about 4 au, preventing it from following a typical cometary activity like a short-period comet. Close encounters with giant planets nevertheless prevent any study of orbital elements on longer timescale.
Inelastic scattering of interstellar silyl cyanide (SiH3CN) by helium atoms : cross-sections and rate coefficients for A- and E-SiH3CN
Authors: Naouai Manel , Jrad Abdelhak , Badri Ayda , Najar Faouzi
Published: August 2021

Rotational inelastic scattering of silyl cyanide (SiH3CN) molecule with helium (He) atoms is investigated. Three-dimensional potential energy surface (3D-PES) for the SiH3CN–He interacting system is carried out. The ab initio 3D-PES is computed using explicitly correlated coupled cluster approach with single, double, and perturbative triple excitation CCSD(T)-F12a connected to augmented-correlation consistent-polarized valence triple zeta Gaussian basis set. A global minimum at (R = 6.35 bohr; θ = 90○; ϕ = 60○) with a well depth of 52.99 cm−1 is pointed out. Inelastic rotational cross-sections are emphasized for the 22 first rotational levels for total energy up to 500 cm−1 via close coupling (CC) approach in the case of A-SiH3CN and for the 24 first rotational levels for total energy up to 100 cm−1 via CC and from 100 to 500 cm−1 via coupled states (CS) in the case of E-SiH3CN. Rate coefficients are derived for temperature until 80 K for both A- and E-SiH3CN–He systems. Propensity rules are obtained for |ΔJ| = 2 processes with broken parity for A-SiH3CN and for |ΔJ| = 2 processes with |ΔK| = 0 and unbroken parity for E-SiH3CN.
Context-specific behavior serves as a mechanism of interspecific cohesion in mixed-species flocks
Authors: Williams Sean M , Lindell Catherine A
Published: August 2021

We investigated whether context-specific behavior is responsible for the cohesion of mixed-species flocks of antshrikes and antwrens in Amazonian Peru. Antshrikes perform a behavior while spatially repositioning, to which antwrens respond by approaching. The cohesion of interspecific associations requires communication, although the mechanisms often are unexplored. In monospecific groups, cohesion among individuals is maintained with actions or vocalizations given in a certain context. Dusky-throated Antshrikes (Thamnomanes ardesiacus) vocalize while in flight and the number of times they vocalize covaries with the flight distance. We refer to this pairing of flight and vocalization as repositioning behavior. Furthermore, antshrikes pair a different call type with perching, which we refer to as perching behavior. We followed Long-winged (Myrmotherula longipennis) and White-flanked Antwrens (M. axillaris) and recorded their response following natural vocalizations (no playback used) given by the antshrikes. Long-winged Antwrens, but not White-flanked, flew toward an antshrike significantly sooner and were more likely to approach the antshrikes after the repositioning behavior than after perching behavior. In addition, Long-winged Antwrens, but not White-flanked, flew toward an antshrike sooner after a longer series of repositioning calls than after a shorter series. We did not distinguish between the Long-winged Antwrens’ response as a function of movement vs. vocalizations of the antshrikes, although we argue that vocalizations are likely a more important communication component of repositioning behavior than movement. It remains unclear whether the antshrikes are deliberately signaling the Long-winged Antwrens or the antwrens are taking advantage of the repositioning behavior; active signaling is possible since antshrikes benefit from antwrens. White-flanked Antwrens may be less responsive to the antshrikes since they have a lower propensity to occur in a mixed-species flock. The results indicate that the repositioning behavior of Dusky-throated Antshrikes is a key mechanism of interspecific cohesion of Amazonian mixed-species flocks of the understory.
Anticholinergic treatment for sialorrhea in children: A systematic review
Authors: You Peng , Strychowsky Julie , Gandhi Karan , Chen Breanna A
Published: August 2021

Background

Sialorrhea in children can be associated with adverse physical and social effects. Treatment using anticholinergic medications has been shown to offer symptomatic relief, but there is no consensus regarding which treatment is the most efficacious.

Objective

To examine the effectiveness of anticholinergic medications for sialorrhea in children.

Methods

A systematic review was carried out in Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus, and the Web of Science from inception until April 29, 2020. Studies reporting original data on the efficacy of anticholinergic medications in the management of sialorrhea in children aged 0 to 17 years of age were included. This review adhered to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) standards. Data on study design, setting, population, pharmacologic intervention(s), comparator(s), outcomes, and results were extracted and summarized.

Results

The search strategy identified 2,800 studies of which 27 articles were included in the synthesis, including five randomized controlled trials. Each anticholinergic undergoing experimental study (glycopyrrolate, scopolamine/hyoscine, trihexyphenidyl/benzhexol, benztropine, and atropine) showed evidence of efficacy. Adverse side effects were common. Significant heterogeneity exists in the studies’ methodology and the variability of outcome measures used between studies precluded a meta-analysis.

Conclusions

Glycopyrrolate, scopolamine/hyoscine, trihexyphenidyl/benzhexol, benztropine, and atropine have all shown efficacy in the treatment of sialorrhea in children. The small number of reports and the variability in study design precluded a meta-analysis. More studies are needed with uniformity in outcome measures to help guide evidence-based decision making. A guidance table is presented.
Effect of postmortem tenderization strategies (pretumbling, blade tenderization, moisture enhancement) on processing yield parameters and eating quality of selected hip and loin muscles from youthful and mature beef carcasses
Authors: Pietrasik Zeb , Shand Phyllis J
Published: August 2021

Several muscles from mature beef carcasses have been identified as failing to provide adequate tenderness required for a satisfactory consumer eating experience. Postmortem processing strategies can help improve the tenderness and subsequent eating quality of mature beef muscles. The current study was undertaken to investigate the impact of processing strategies (blade tenderization [BT], pretumbling [PT], and moisture enhancement [ME]), alone and in combination, on processing yield and eating quality-related parameters of selected loin and hip muscles (gluteus medius [GM], longissimus lumborum [LL], semimembranosus [SM], and biceps femoris [BF]) from youthful and mature beef cattle. Results indicate that muscles from mature beef were inherently less tender (P < 0.05), but some tenderization procedures produced meat that was similar in tenderness to that of youthful cattle. Of the different tenderization strategies evaluated, BT followed by ME (injection of a salt/phosphate solution) was the most effective strategy for improving (P < 0.05) tenderness of tougher muscle cuts such as BF and SM. Moisture enhancement alone improved tenderness (P < 0.05) and juiciness (P < 0.01) of SM, GM and LL, but with the exception of samples tenderized prior to injection, was not effective (P > 0.05) in BF muscles. No additional tenderization of GM and LL samples was observed (P > 0.05) by combining PT or BT with ME. Combining PT or BT with ME; however, was effective (P < 0.05) to control the increased purge loss observed following ME treatment in SM and LL muscles. Pretumbling as a single treatment was ineffective (P > 0.05) in all of the muscles, and only treatments that included BT were sufficient to effect an increase (P < 0.05) in tenderness of BF.
Genome Sequence Resource for Erysiphe necator NAFU1, a Grapevine Powdery Mildew Isolate Identified in Shaanxi Province of China (Retracted)
Authors: Zhang Xingyuan , Mu Bo , Cui Kaicheng , Liu Min , Ke Guihua , Han Yongtao , Wu Ying , Xiao Shunyuan , Wen Ying-Qiang
Published: August 2021

The authors of Zhang et al. 34:1446–1449 (2021) retracted this article because the initially reported genome assembly of NAFU1 was contaminated. This article was retracted on 28 November 2022, and the correction of the NAFU1 genome assembly at NCBI will be made in the future.

Erysiphe necator is an economically important biotrophic fungal pathogen responsible for powdery mildew disease on grapevine. Currently, genome sequences are available for only a few E. necator isolates from the United States. Based on the combination of Nanopore and Illumina sequencing technologies, we present here the complete genome assembly for an isolate of E. necator, NAFU1, identified in China. We acquired a total of 15.93 Gb of raw reads. These reads were processed into a 61.12-Mb genome assembly containing 73 contigs with an N50 of 2.06 Mb and a maximum length of 6.05 Mb. Combining the results of three gene-prediction modules (i.e., an evidence-based gene modeler [EVidenceModeler], an ab initio gene modeler, and a homology-based gene modeler), we predicted 7,235 protein-coding genes in the assembled genome of E. necator NAFU1. This information will facilitate studies of genome evolution and pathogenicity mechanisms of E. necator and other powdery mildew species through comparative genome sequence analysis and other molecular genetic tools.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
The Etiology of Pneumonia in HIV-infected Zambian Children
Authors: Seidenberg Phil , Mwananyanda Lawrence , Chipeta James , Kwenda Geoffrey , Mulindwa Justin M. , Mwansa James , Mwenechanya Musaku , Wa Somwe Somwe , Feikin Daniel R. , Haddix Meredith , Hammitt Laura L. , Higdon Melissa M. , Murdoch David R. , Prosperi Christine , O’Brien Katherine L. , Deloria Knoll Maria , Thea Donald M.
Published: August 2021

Background:

Despite recent declines in new pediatric HIV infections and childhood HIV-related deaths, pneumonia remains the leading cause of death in HIV-infected children under 5. We describe the patient population, etiology and outcomes of childhood pneumonia in Zambian HIV-infected children.

Methods:

As one of the 9 sites for the Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health study, we enrolled children 1–59 months of age presenting to University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia, with World Health Organization–defined severe and very severe pneumonia. Controls frequency-matched on age group and HIV infection status were enrolled from the Lusaka Pediatric HIV Clinics as well as from the surrounding communities. Clinical assessments, chest radiographs (CXR; cases) and microbiologic samples (nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swabs, blood, urine, induced sputum) were obtained under highly standardized procedures. Etiology was estimated using Bayesian methods and accounted for imperfect sensitivity and specificity of measurements.

Results:

Of the 617 cases and 686 controls enrolled in Zambia over a 24-month period, 103 cases (16.7%) and 85 controls (12.4%) were HIV infected and included in this analysis. Among the HIV-infected cases, 75% were <1 year of age, 35% received prophylactic trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, 13.6% received antiretroviral therapy and 36.9% of caregivers reported knowing their children’s HIV status at time of enrollment. A total of 35% of cases had very severe pneumonia and 56.3% had infiltrates on CXR. Bacterial pathogens [50.6%, credible interval (CrI): 32.8–67.2], Pneumocystis jirovecii (24.9%, CrI: 15.5–36.2) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (4.5%, CrI: 1.7–12.1) accounted for over 75% of the etiologic fraction among CXR-positive cases. Streptococcus pneumoniae (19.8%, CrI: 8.6–36.2) was the most common bacterial pathogen, followed by Staphylococcus aureus (12.7%, CrI: 0.0–25.9). Outcomes were poor, with 41 cases (39.8%) dying in hospital.

Conclusions:

HIV-infected children in Zambia with severe and very severe pneumonia have poor outcomes, with continued limited access to care, and the predominant etiologies are bacterial pathogens, P. jirovecii and M. tuberculosis.
Introduction to the Site-specific Etiologic Results From the Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health (PERCH) Study
Authors: Deloria Knoll Maria , Prosperi Christine , Baggett Henry C. , Brooks W. Abdullah , Feikin Daniel R. , Hammitt Laura L. , Howie Stephen R.C. , Kotloff Karen L. , Madhi Shabir A. , Murdoch David R. , Scott J. Anthony G. , Thea Donald M. , O’Brien Katherine L.
Published: August 2021

The Pneumonia Etiology Research for Child Health (PERCH) study evaluated the etiology of severe and very severe pneumonia in children hospitalized in 7 African and Asian countries. Here, we summarize the highlights of in-depth site-specific etiology analyses published separately in this issue, including how etiology varies by age, mortality status, malnutrition, severity, HIV status, and more. These site-specific results impart important lessons that can inform disease control policy implications.
Viral Exanthems in Pediatrics From Vaccine Preventable Diseases
Authors: Leonard Shonagh , Pelletier Janice L.
Published: August 2021

Vaccine preventable eruptions deserve special attention in pediatrics, because early recognition speeds testing, contact tracing, treatment, reporting, and prevention. Addressing these diseases is especially important during any time when immunization rates may have lagged because of lack of access, vaccine hesitancy, or other reasons. Focusing on cutaneous manifestations of vaccine preventable diseases in pediatrics, the following diseases are discussed: measles, rubella, varicella, smallpox, and meningococcemia. Key factors identified to help differentiate such diseases from others include location, distribution, and courses of the presenting primary lesions.
Efficacy of tacrolimus as maintenance therapy after cyclophosphamide for treating antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis
Authors: Pyo Jung Yoon , Lee Lucy Eunju , Ahn Sung Soo , Song Jason Jungsik , Park Yong-Beom , Lee Sang-Won
Published: August 2021

Azathioprine (AZA), methotrexate, or rituximab is used for the maintenance therapy of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV). Although the efficacy of tacrolimus (TAC) in various autoimmune diseases has been demonstrated, there have been few reports on the efficacy of TAC in AAV. We investigated the efficacy of TAC as maintenance therapy for AAV and compared its efficacy with that of AZA.

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 81 patients with AAV who received cyclophosphamide as induction therapy and AZA or TAC as maintenance therapy. All-cause death, relapse, and progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) were analyzed.

Among 81 patients with AAV, 69 patients received AZA alone, 6 patients received TAC alone, and 6 patients received TAC after AZA for maintenance therapy. Overall, 11 patients (13.6%) died, 30 patients (37.0%) experienced relapse, and 16 patients (19.8%) progressed to ESRD during a median of 33.8 months. No significant differences were observed in cumulative patients’, relapse-free, and ESRD-free survival rates between patients administered AZA alone and TAC alone. There were no significant differences in the cumulative patients’ and relapse-free survival rate between patients who received AZA alone and TAC after AZA. However, the cumulative ESRD-free survival rate was lower in patients who received TAC after AZA than in those who received AZA alone (P = .027).

Patients who received TAC as maintenance therapy showed a higher incidence of ESRD than those who received AZA; however, this might be attributed to the lack of efficacy of AZA rather than the low ESRD prevention effect of TAC.
Antidepressants use is associated with overall survival improvement of patients with gastric cancer after surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy in Taiwan
Authors: Shih Wei-Tai , Yang Pei-Rung , Chen Ko-Jung , Yang Yao-Hsu , Lu Mong-Liang , Chen Vincent Chin-Hung , Shen Yi-Chia
Published: August 2021

To determine whether exposure to antidepressants (ATDs) results in improved overall survival (OS) of patients with gastric cancer (GC) after surgery, we conducted a large cohort study and considered confounding factors that might affect the research outcomes.

Patients who received a new diagnosis of GC and received surgery and chemotherapy between 1999 and 2008 were recruited and were classified into different groups based on the ATD level used. The association between the OS of patients with GC after surgery with different levels of ATD use, and the hazard ratio with comorbidities at different ATD use levels were compared.

According to Kaplan–Meier method, the more of an ATD was taken, the longer the OS and a dose-dependent relationship was discovered in the OS curve; the adjusted HRs were 0.76 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.68–0.84) and 0.48 (95% CI = 0.41–0.57) for ATD users taking a cumulative defined daily dose (cDDD) of 28–167 and ≧168, respectively. Sensitivity analyzes were performed to investigate the effect of various comorbidities on OS with different degrees of ATD use and the results remained consistent among the varying models. Additionally, the effect of ATD use still exhibited a dose-dependent relationship in distinct stratifications for sex and age.

The OS for patients with GC after surgery and chemotherapy improved with ATD use, and a dose-dependent relationship was discovered in this study. Further studies on the association between OS of GC and ATD use are required.
Expression of mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1 and 2 and Yes-associated protein 1 proteins in triple-negative breast cancer and the clinicopathological significance
Authors: Feng Yang , Ci Hongfei , Wu Qiong
Published: August 2021

Background and aim:

Mammalian sterile 20-like kinase 1 and 2 (MST1/2) and Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) are the core molecules of the Hippo signaling pathway, which have been found to be unbalanced in the occurrence of tumors and promote the development of the lesions. The present study aimed to investigate the expression of MST1/2 and YAP1 proteins in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and their clinicopathological significance.

Methods:

Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression level of protein in tissues. According to the percentage of positive cells and staining intensity, the expression intensity of MST1/2 and YAP1 proteins in the tissue samples was scored, and the correlation between MST1/2 and the clinicopathological features of TNBC were discussed.

Results:

The expression of MST1/2 and YAP1 was associated with histological grade, metastasis, lymph node metastasis stage, and tumor node metastasis stage. The overexpression of YAP1 predicted a poor prognosis in terms of overall survival and disease-free survival time. The MST1/2 expression was associated with improved overall survival and disease free survival of the patients.

Conclusion:

MST1/2 and YAP1 may be used as prognostic indicators to evaluate the recurrence of TNBC and might become one of the new targets for breast cancer treatment.