bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(IN) ACCESS TO ARTIFICIAL LIMBS: THE PATIENT’S PERSPECTIVE ACCORDING TO THE WAR AMPS OF CANADA
Authors: Petlock Annelise , DiMario Keana
Published: September 2021

Funding agencies, both public and private, do not adequately meet the needs of Canadian amputees. This often leaves amputees without access to appropriate prosthetic care due to outstanding balances that are to be paid out of pocket, or by charitable organizations. There are several factors that result in these inadequacies. As healthcare is a provincial responsibility in Canada, provinces and territories have the authority to create individual public regimes, each with their own weaknesses. In fact, there are a few provincial regimes which do not include prosthetic funding at all. Private healthcare is meant to offset the remaining balance; however, their lack of knowledge regarding amputation has resulted in the creation of policies with ambiguous language, limiting the funding available for prosthetic care. Attitudinal barriers and missed legislative opportunities further exacerbate the shortcomings of prosthetic funding provided by public and private funding agencies, requiring action.

Article PDF Link:https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/35972/28331

How To Cite: Petlock A, DiMario K. (In) Access to artificial limbs: the patient’s perspective according to the WAR AMPS of Canada. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2021; Volume 4, Issue 2, No.13. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v4i2.35972

Corresponding Author: Annelise PetlockThe War Amps Advocacy Program/ 2827 Riverside Drive Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.E-Mail: annelise.petlock@waramps.caORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7273-4527
A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO GAME THEORY AND ITS POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS FOR THE ECONOMICS OF ORTHOTICS & PROSTHETICS
Authors: Fiedler Goeran , Schikorra Armin
Published: September 2021

The economic viability of Orthotics & Prosthetics (O&P) service provision is an important concern for policy makers, patients, and practitioners. Against the background of limited funds that can be distributed for healthcare expenses overall, it is critical to identify the most cost-effective treatment options within and across disciplines, including surgical and pharmacological interventions. When those decisions are being negotiated, whether in the context of an individual case in the clinic or of general payer policies that allocate spending budgets, the O&P discipline is often perceived to be at a disadvantage due to its relatively young age, underdeveloped evidence base, and small economic clout as compared to other fields. Such asymmetrical negotiations have been the subject of economic theories and mathematical models, such as the “Game theory”, work on which has been awarded with several Nobel Prizes and other recognitions across the years. In this paper, we are introducing core concepts of this theory and discuss how they may be applied in negotiations on treatment approaches and reimbursement schedules with the goal to improve outcomes for the O&P profession.

Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/36661/28347

How To Cite: Fiedler G, Schikorra A. A brief introduction to game theory and its potential implications for the economics of orthotics & prosthetics. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2021; Volume 4, Issue 2, No.18. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v4i2.36661

Corresponding Author: Dr. Goeran Fiedler, PhDDepartment of Rehabilitation Science and Technology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA.E-Mail: gfiedler@pitt.eduORCID number: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1532-1248
EDITOR’S PERSPECTIVE ON HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS
Authors: Raschke Silvia Ursula
Published: September 2021

There is a scarcity of literature exploring Health Economics in Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O).  The P&O sector has, over the past decades, moved to a Bachelor’s or Masters Degree level as the requirement for entry to practice and, with that, there has been a growing body of research and knowledge generation focusing primarily on clinical aspects and engineering advances. No corresponding body of research has emerged on the economic aspects of P&O, creating a fundamental weakness in both technical and clinical research efforts to advance this field within an economically sustainable framework. This weakness will become critical as data driven engineering advances (e.g. exoskeletons, mass customizable prostheses) and clinical improvements (e.g. osseointegration, diabetes treatments) will make reimbursement for devices ever more complex and challenging. The tension between what is possible and what is fundable will increase unless what is possible also drives down costs. Finding the right balance in Prosthetics and Orthotics will be a challenge, as this sector already struggles to justify current standards of care. This Special Edition takes a snapshot of stakeholder perspectives and opinions on the topic of Health Economics in P&O and is organized around the following stakeholder groups:  End-user, Researcher (Engineering and Clinical), Prosthetic and Orthotic Practitioner and, of critical importance, four papers describing an interdisciplinary project on the Health Economics of Osseointegration that was led by a payor. Each author was also asked to provide a “Call to Action” in which they identify one or more key areas that need to be addressed in order to move forward with the barriers or opportunities they have identified in their paper. The intent of the Special Edition is to generate discussion and encourage more in-depth research on this topic.

Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/37135/28295

How To Cite: Raschke S.U. Editor’s perspective on health economics in prosthetics and orthotics. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2021; Volume 4, Issue 2, No.1. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v4i2.37135

Corresponding Author: Silvia Ursula Raschke, PhDBritish Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT), 3700 Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada.E-Mail: Silvia_Raschke@bcit.caORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7964-4295
Inheritance Rights of Children Out of Wedlock in the Perspective of Islamic Law
Authors: Sri Istiawati  , Yusriana  , Deliani  , Saniah
Published: September 2021

The aims of study are to find out Inheritance Rights of Children Out of Wedlock in the Perspective of Islamic Law. This study use qualitative research. The result in this study shows that Pregnancy out of wedlock will have a huge psychological impact on the child. The child will be ostracized in the midst of society and there will be tremendous confusion when he grows up to marry because it may be without his biological parents, especially his father, attending.
Issues of establishing an alternative concept of energy development. Part 2. Ways to transform energy supply
Authors: Nekrasov S.A.
Published: September 2021

The monograph presents the Issues of establishing an alternative energy development concept. Based on tectology and systematic economic theory, it is demonstrated that, unlike post-reform increase in quantitative figures of certain energetic companies, the basis for the effectiveness growth of technological chain “production-consumption of energetic resources” as an integral system is the growth of energy development structural sustainability as a result of shifting priority to consumers’ development. Fall of tariffs for electric power is possible due to consumers’ development, but without any damage to them, as well as increase in energy supply reliability and current energetic system figures, and prospectively – even its integration with renewable sources with minimal expenses. For university teachers, researchers, consultants and experts in the energy sector, graduate students and undergraduates.
Raising of Mahogany (Swietenia Mahagoni L.) Seedlings to Combat Climate Change as Influenced by Organic Manures and Chemical Fertilizers
Authors: Mitu - , RI SK , Rifat R , Jahanara I , Murshed HB , Rahman MK
Published: September 2021

Effects of various organic manures on the growth, performance and biomass production of Mahogany seedlings, an experiment was carried out in the net house of the Department of Soil, Water and Environment, University of Dhaka. Nine types of manures, viz. Kazi, ACI, Payel, BGF-1, Mazim, SK, Supermill, Sebok, Sufola organic manures were used separately at the rate of 12 ton/ha. Another dose of NPK inorganic fertilizer was used at the rate of 5kg/ha N, 3 kg/ha P, 3 kg/ha K respectively. Height, leaf area, and fresh and dry weights of leaf varied significantly (p≤ 0.5) and increased with time. Maximum leaf number (41.33 no./plant) and branch (6.33 no./plant) was found in Payel compost but maximum N concentration (2%) in leaf was obtained in Sebok treatment. Highest plant height (48.33 cm), leaf area (204.766 cm2/plant), girth (3.067 cm/plant), fresh weight (37.79g/plant), dry weight (9.16 g/plant), and length of petiole (6.33 cm) were recorded in Supermill treatment at harvest. Results showed that the overall best growth performance of seedlings was achieved in Supermill compost.
J. Biodivers. Conserv. Bioresour. Manag. 2020, 6(2): 19-26
Effects of Organic Manures and Npk on Growth and Protein Content of Okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus L. Moench)
Authors: Haque F , Nishi KN , Muslim M , Rahman MK
Published: September 2021

Effects of organic manures and NPK fertilizers on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) plants were evaluated in the net house of the Department of Soil, Water and Environment, University of Dhaka. The experiment was conducted in a randomized design replicated thrice with eighteen treatments involving eight organic manures along with NPK and without NPK fertilizers. Growth parameters viz. plant height, leaf number, leaf area and dry weight of root, stem, leaf and fruits were assessed. The highest height (132.5 cm), leaf number (21.5) and leaf area (412.09 cm2) were found in T9: Shebok 10 ton ha–1 treatment. The highest dry weight of a plant (40.6 g), number of fruits per plant (8) and dry weight of fruit per plant (3.71 g) were found in T11:N30P18K25 kg ha–1 plus ACI 5 ton ha–1 treatment. Maximum protein (25.37%) was achieved in T11, phosphorous (0.481 mg kg–1) in T14 and potassium (4.50 mg kg–1) in T13 treatment. Results varied significantly (p≤0.5). The overall best growth performance and protein content was observed in T9:Shebok 10 ton ha–1 and T11:N30P18K25 kg ha–1 plus ACI 5 ton ha–1 treatment, respectively.
J. Biodivers. Conserv. Bioresour. Manag. 2020, 6(2): 83-88
IMPLEMENTASI SISTEM PAKAR PENGENDALIAN INTERNAL PEMBERIAN KREDIT RUMAH MENGGUNAKAN METODE FORWARD CHAINING
Authors: Christy Tika , Yuma Febby Madonna , Efendi Zulfan
Published: September 2021

Abstrak: Tujuan praktis dari kecerdasan buatan adalah membuat komputer lebih bermanfaat bagi manusia. Kecerdasan buatan dapat membantu manusia membuat keputusan, menemukan informasi yang lebih akurat atau membuat komputer lebih mudah digunakan dengan tampilan alami untuk membuatnya mudah dimengerti. Pada kenyataannya, sistem permohonan kredit bertujuan untuk memberikan kemudahan serta layanan yang tepat sesuai kebutuhan nasabah, dan juga memberikan suatu pedoman serta syarat-syarat dalam permohonan kredit dengan jelas agar nasabah mengerti bagaimana prosedur dalam mengajukan permohonan kredit. Adapun resiko yang dihadapi dari Bank SUMUT seperti tunggakan kredit atau kredit macet. Oleh karena itu, dibutuhkanlah kecermatan pihak internal bank dalam melakukan analisa. Ini bertujuan untuk mempelajari Sistem Pakar dengan metode Forward Chaining dan masalah untuk mengetahui apakah tindakan yang akan diambil oleh pihak internal dalam memproses pemberian kredit rumah sesuai aturannya. Kata kunci: kredit; runut maju; sistem pakar  Abstract: The practical goal of artificial intelligence is to make computers more useful to humans. Artificial intelligence can help humans make decisions, find more accurate information or make computers easier to use with natural displays to make them easy to understand. The credit application system aims to provide convenience and appropriate services according to customer needs, and also provides clear guidelines and conditions for credit applications so that customers understand the procedure for applying for credit. The risks faced by Bank SUMUT such as credit arrears or bad loans. Therefore, it takes the accuracy of the bank's internal parties in conducting the analysis. This aims to study the Expert System with the Forward Chaining method and the problem to find out whether the actions that will be taken by internal parties in processing home loans are following the rules. Keywords: credit; expert system; forward chaining
Palaeo or Neo? Bataille, Lévi-Strauss and the Rewriting of Prehistory
Authors: Richman Michèle
Published: September 2021

This article's polemical thrust begins with Georges Bataille's 1956 critique of Tristes Tropiques, where Lévi-Strauss omits the Palaeolithic while extolling the Neolithic advent of agriculture and sedentism. Whereas Lévi-Strauss describes his own thinking as Neolithic, he characterizes it in ways that resemble the behaviour of hunter-gatherers and nomads. I trace this contradiction to current scholarship willing to challenge the long-standing narrative bias that either ignores the Palaeolithic and/or derides it in favour of the Neolithic, now subject to refutations of its alleged advantages. Further theoretical backbone is provided by Ibn Khaldun and Bataille on the centrality of luxury. Thus, Palaeolithic cave art's social dimension as the expression of a privileged few is contrasted with the view of scholars who see it as the product of an egalitarian society indifferent to material gain. Bataille remains a key reference due to his exceptional commitment to prehistory, a relatively underexploited facet of his work.
POLITICAL ECONOMY OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION DIPLOMACY OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Authors: Reghunadhan Ramnath
Published: September 2021

In an increasingly multipolar but ‘glocalised’ world, a country's scientific and technological know-how determines its socioeconomic position and strategic disposition, especially related to science, technology and innovation (STI). The STI diplomacy of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) developed within a broader political, social and economic environment, which is inherently different from that of Europe and the US. This has had influences from sociocultural, economic and ideational transactions in PRC. The emergence of the ‘new developmental state’, particularly with the rise of digital systems interconnecting and interlinking the PRC and the World. This has accelerated and transformed the emergence of ‘variegated forms of capitalism’ in PRC. Currently, PRC is emerging as a major stakeholder in global STI diplomacy, especially with an increased focus on emergent technologies. Further, the political economy of Chinese foreign policy in acting as a key driver for institutionalizing STI in (like-minded) trading partners will be addressed
Identification of an Immune-Related Long Noncoding RNA Pairs Model to Predict Survival and Immune Features in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Song Shenglei , Liu Shuhao , Wei Zhewei , Jin Xinghan , Mao Deli , He Yulong , Li Bo , Zhang Changhua
Published: September 2021

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) remains one of the most malignant tumors around the world, and an accurate model that reliably predicts survival and therapeutic efficacy is urgently needed. As a novel predictor for prognosis in a variety of cancers, immune-related long noncoding RNA pairs (IRlncRNAPs) have been reported to predict tumor prognosis. Herein, we integrated an IRlncRNAPs model to predict the clinical outcome, immune features, and chemotherapeutic efficacy of GC.

Methods: Based on the GC data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and the Immunology Database and Analysis Portal (ImmPort), differentially expressed immune-related long noncoding RNAs (DEIRlncRNAs) were identified. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and Cox regression analysis were used to select the most appropriate overall survival (OS)-related IRlncRNAPs to develop a prognostic signature. The riskScore of each sample was calculated by comparing the long noncoding RNA expression level in each IRlncRNAP. Based on the riskScore for each patient, GC patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups. Then, the correlation of the signature and riskScore with OS, clinical features, immune cell infiltration, immune-related gene (IRG) expression and chemotherapeutic efficacy in GC was analyzed.

Results: A total of 107 DEIRlncRNAs were identified which formed 4297 IRlncRNAPs. Fifteen OS-related IRlncRNAPs were selected to develop a prognostic model. GC patients could be accurately classified into high- and low-risk groups according to the riskScore of the prognostic model. The 1-, 2-, 3-, and 5-year receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for the riskScore were drawn and the area under the curve (AUC) values were found to be 0.788, 0.810, 0.825, and 0.868, respectively, demonstrating a high sensitivity and accuracy of this prognostic signature. Moreover, the immune-related riskScore was an independent risk factor. Patients showed a poorer outcome within the high-risk group. In addition, the riskScore was found to be significantly correlated with the clinical features, immune infiltration status, IRG expression, and chemotherapeutic efficacy in GC.

Conclusion: The prognostic model of IRlncRNAPs offers great promise in predicting the prognosis, immune infiltration status, and chemotherapeutic efficacy in GC, which might be helpful for the selection of chemo- and immuno-therapy of GC.
Autoimmunity in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Evidence for Local Immunoglobulin Production
Authors: Shu Ting , Xing Yanjiang , Wang Jing
Published: September 2021

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive life-threatening disease. The notion that autoimmunity is associated with PAH is widely recognized by the observations that patients with connective tissue diseases or virus infections are more susceptible to PAH. However, growing evidence supports that the patients with idiopathic PAH (IPAH) with no autoimmune diseases also have auto-antibodies. Anti-inflammatory therapy shows less help in decreasing auto-antibodies, therefore, elucidating the process of immunoglobulin production is in great need. Maladaptive immune response in lung tissues is considered implicating in the local auto-antibodies production in patients with IPAH. In this review, we will discuss the specific cell types involved in the lung in situ immune response, the potential auto-antigens, and the contribution of local immunoglobulin production in PAH development, providing a theoretical basis for drug development and precise treatment in patients with PAH.
3-Dimensional Multiphysics Modeling of Behaviors of Pressurized Water Reactor Fuel Rods With Missing Pellet Surface
Authors: Zhang Xinhu , Wang Zhao , XI Yongbo , Liu Wenbo , Deng Yongjun , Yun Di
Published: September 2021

A 3-dimensional (3D) fuel performance analysis program, able to simulate normal operating conditions and accident conditions for PWR fuel behaviors, was developed based on the Multiphysics Object-Oriented Simulation Environment (MOOSE) finite-element framework. By taking fission products swelling, densification and expansion of pellet, thermal and irradiation creep, gap heat transfer, fission gas release, and cladding crack propagation into consideration, detailed fuel behaviors have been simulated in a multiphysics coupling way. Local defects in fuel pellet caused during manufacturing and filling processes known as the missing pellet surface (MPS) can cause abnormal stress distribution of the cladding and it could even lead to cladding failure. Taking Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC) phenomenon into consideration, a simulation of PWR fuel rodlet that consists of a pellet with an MPS defect and an intact pellet was conducted. The fuel rod has experienced with sorts of events, including normal operating conditions and a high-power ramp event. The simulation results indicated that: 1) The MPS defect affects the temperature and displacement distribution in the vicinity of the MPS defect. When the pellets are in contact with the cladding, the inner surface of the cladding presents a large tensile hoop stress, which accelerates the crack propagation. 2) During the ramp event, the crack propagation rate was higher than that under normal condition and crack length expanded by about 0.1 µm.
HIF-1α Pulmonary Phenotype Wide Association Study Unveils a Link to Inflammatory Airway Conditions
Authors: Kelchtermans Jelte , Chang Xiao , March Michael E. , Mentch Frank , Sleiman Patrick M. A. , Hakonarson Hakon
Published: September 2021

Despite experimental data linking HIF-1α dysfunction to inflammatory airway conditions, the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms within the HIF1A gene on these conditions remains poorly understood. In the current study, we complete a phenotype wide association study to assess the link between SNPs with known disease associations and respiratory phenotypes. We report two SNPs of the HIF1A gene, the intronic rs79865957 and the missense rs41508050. In these positions the A and the T allele are significantly associated with allergic rhinitis and acute bronchitis and bronchiolitis, respectively. These findings further support the role of HIF-1α in inflammatory pulmonary conditions and may serve as a basis to refine our understanding of other HIF-1α associated phenotypes.
Cytokine Cocktail Promotes Alveolar Macrophage Reconstitution and Functional Maturation in a Murine Model of Haploidentical Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Hong Chao , Lu Hongyun , Jin Rong , Huang Xiaohong , Chen Ming , Dai Xiaoqiu , Gong Fangyuan , Dong Hongliang , Wang Hongmin , Gao Xiao-Ming
Published: September 2021

Infectious pneumonia is one of the most common complications after bone marrow transplantation (BMT), which is considered to be associated with poor reconstitution and functional maturation of alveolar macrophages (AMs) post-transplantation. Here, we present evidence showing that lack of IL-13-secreting group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) in the lungs may underlay poor AM reconstitution in a mouse model of haploidentical BMT (haplo-BMT). Recombinant murine IL-13 was able to potentiate monocyte-derived AM differentiation in vitro. When intranasally administered, a cocktail of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), IL-13, and CCL2 not only promoted donor monocyte-derived AM reconstitution in haplo-BMT-recipient mice but also enhanced the innate immunity of the recipient animals against pulmonary bacterial infection. These results provide a useful clue for a clinical strategy to prevent pulmonary bacterial infection at the early stage of recipients post-BMT.
Using a One Health Case-Based Investigation for Improved Control of Brucellosis in Isiolo, Kenya
Authors: Karlsson Philip A. , Persson Carolina , Akoko James , Bett Bernard , Lundkvist Åke , Lindahl Johanna F.
Published: September 2021

Brucellais a highly pathogenic bacteria endemic in Kenya, and in spite of its severity in humans, the highly inadequate Febrile AntigenBrucellaAgglutination Test (FBAT) remains a primary tool for its diagnosis. Blood samples were collected from febrile patients in Kinna health center and screened by the local routine. Milk samples were purchased from local milk hawkers and analyzed forBrucellaantibodies using the milk ring test (MRT). The MRT-positive milk was traced to farms, and lactating cattle were sampled for milk and blood. Milk was MRT-tested and the serum was analyzed using the Rose Bengal test (RBT) and iELISA. Available patient and farm samples were stored on FTA cards for qPCR analyses. Despite a limited sample size, our study, in line with previous reports, shows a low diagnostic sensitivity (67%) and specificity (40%) of FBAT when compared to qPCR. As many as 48% of the raw bulk cattle milk samples were MRT-positive forBrucellaantibodies and 60% of cattle on three visited farms were IS711qPCR-positive. This case-based One Health investigation confirms the suspectedBrucellapresence, suggesting a targeted vaccination at high-prevalence farms, urgent interventions on milk safety, and a re-evaluation of the diagnostic and treatment regimen.
Electronic-Nose as Non-destructive Tool to Discriminate “Ferrovia” Sweet Cherries Cold Stored in Air or Packed in High CO2 Modified Atmospheres
Authors: Cozzolino Rosaria , Cefola Maria , Laurino Carmine , Pellicano Mario Paolo , Palumbo Michela , Stocchero Matteo , Pace Bernardo
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to explore the applicability of electronic-nose (E-nose) as a rapid method in discriminating samples of sweet cherry cv “Ferrovia” stored in high-CO2(16% O2+ 20% CO2+ 64% N2) or air (control) up to 21 days. Projection to Latent Structures (PLS) methods applied to E-nose data showed that fresh fruit and the packaged or unpackaged samples can be distinguished, according to both the storage condition and the storage days. Moreover, a correlation analysis between E-nose sensors and 45 volatile compounds were overall, obtained from all the investigated sweet cherry samples by Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction (HS SPME) coupled to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). These methods allowed to associate samples with a specific flavour profile to one or more E-nose sensors. Finally, quality attributes (visual quality, colour, firmness, antioxidant activity, total phenols, and sugar content) were assessed during storage. Among these, visual quality and berry deformation resulted affected by storage conditions, showing that high-CO2treatment better preserved the fruit quality than control.
Theta-Burst Stimulation of Forearm Muscles in Patients With Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Influence on Brain and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Allen Demers Fannie , Zangrandi Andrea , Schneider Cyril
Published: September 2021

Objective: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a common pain condition characterized by the changes in the brain that are not yet addressed by conventional treatment regimens. Repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) of muscles is painless and non-invasive and can influence these changes (the induction of brain plasticity) to reduce pain and improve motricity. In patients with CRPS, this open-label pilot study tested rPMS after-effects on the pain intensity and sensorimotor control of the upper limb along with the excitability changes of the primary motor cortex (M1).

Methods: Eight patients with CRPS were enrolled in a single-session program. Patients were tested at pre- and post-rPMS over the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) muscle. The clinical outcomes were pain intensity, proprioception, active range of motion (ROM), and grip strength. M1 excitability was tested using the single- and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of M1.

Results: In our small sample study, rPMS reduced instant and week pain, improved proprioception and ROM, and reduced the hemispheric imbalance of several TMS outcomes. The more M1 contralateral to the CRPS side was hyperactivated at baseline, the more pain was reduced.

Discussion: This open-label pilot study provided promising findings for the use of rPMS in CRPS with a focus on M1 plastic changes. Future randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials should confirm the existence of a causal relationship between the TMS outcomes and post-rPMS decrease of pain. This will favor the development of personalized treatments of peripheral non-invasive neurostimulation in CRPS.
NEO: NEuro-Inspired Optimization—A Fractional Time Series Approach
Authors: Chatterjee Sarthak , Das Subhro , Pequito Sérgio
Published: September 2021

Solving optimization problems is a recurrent theme across different fields, including large-scale machine learning systems and deep learning. Often in practical applications, we encounter objective functions where the Hessian is ill-conditioned, which precludes us from using optimization algorithms utilizing second-order information. In this paper, we propose to use fractional time series analysis methods that have successfully been used to model neurophysiological processes in order to circumvent this issue. In particular, the long memory property of fractional time series exhibiting non-exponential power-law decay of trajectories seems to model behavior associated with the local curvature of the objective function at a given point. Specifically, we propose a NEuro-inspired Optimization (NEO) method that leverages this behavior, which contrasts with the short memory characteristics of currently used methods (e.g., gradient descent and heavy-ball). We provide evidence of the efficacy of the proposed method on a wide variety of settings implicitly found in practice.
Sotagliflozin, a Dual SGLT1/2 Inhibitor, Improves Cardiac Outcomes in a Normoglycemic Mouse Model of Cardiac Pressure Overload
Authors: Young Sophia L. , Ryan Lydia , Mullins Thomas P. , Flint Melanie , Steane Sarah E. , Walton Sarah L. , Bielefeldt-Ohmann Helle , Carter David A. , Reichelt Melissa E. , Gallo Linda A.
Published: September 2021

Selective SGLT2 inhibition reduces the risk of worsening heart failure and cardiovascular death in patients with existing heart failure, irrespective of diabetic status. We aimed to investigate the effects of dual SGLT1/2 inhibition, using sotagliflozin, on cardiac outcomes in normal diet (ND) and high fat diet (HFD) mice with cardiac pressure overload. Five-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomized to receive a HFD (60% of calories from fat) or remain on ND for 12 weeks. One week later, transverse aortic constriction (TAC) was employed to induce cardiac pressure-overload (50% increase in right:left carotid pressure versus sham surgery), resulting in left ventricular hypertrophic remodeling and cardiac fibrosis, albeit preserved ejection fraction. At 4 weeks post-TAC, mice were treated for 7 weeks by oral gavage once daily with sotagliflozin (10 mg/kg body weight) or vehicle (0.1% tween 80). In ND mice, treatment with sotagliflozin attenuated cardiac hypertrophy and histological markers of cardiac fibrosis induced by TAC. These benefits were associated with profound diuresis and glucosuria, without shifts toward whole-body fatty acid utilization, increased circulating ketones, nor increased cardiac ketolysis. In HFD mice, sotagliflozin reduced the mildly elevated glucose and insulin levels but did not attenuate cardiac injury induced by TAC. HFD mice had vacuolation of proximal tubular cells, associated with less profound sotagliflozin-induced diuresis and glucosuria, which suggests dampened drug action. We demonstrate the utility of dual SGLT1/2 inhibition in treating cardiac injury induced by pressure overload in normoglycemic mice. Its efficacy in high fat-fed mice with mild hyperglycemia and compromised renal morphology requires further study.
Limits of a Second Language: Native and Second Languages in Management Team Communication
Authors: Arnulf Jan Ketil , Dai Wanwen , Lu Hui , Niu Zhe
Published: September 2021

Cultural differences in speech acts are common challenges in management involving Chinese and Western managers. Comparing four groups – Native-speaking Chinese, English-speaking Chinese, Chinese-speaking Westerners, and non-Chinese- speaking Westerners, we assessed the effects of language and ethnicity on the ability to predict communication obstacles in a management team scenario. Bilingual subjects were less likely to be influenced by ethnic biases. Still, bilinguals were not more likely to adjust their metacognitions about communication toward those of the native speakers. The study creates a link between management, cognition and linguistics, as well as having consequences for the study of metacognition in cross-cultural management.
Food Addiction and Its Relationship to Weight- and Addiction-Related Psychological Parameters in Individuals With Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Pape Magdalena , Herpertz Stephan , Schroeder Stefanie , Seiferth Caroline , Färber Tanja , Wolstein Jörg , Steins-Loeber Sabine
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims: It is assumed that a relevant subgroup of individuals experiences an addiction-like eating behaviour (Food Addiction), characterized by an impaired control over eating behaviour, emotional eating and food craving. Individuals experiencing Food Addiction partially share common symptomatology with Binge-Eating-Disorder and Bulimia Nervosa. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Food Addiction, general psychopathology, and associations with weight- and addiction-related constructs in individuals with overweight and obesity, who did not suffer from Binge-Eating-Disorder or Bulimia Nervosa.

Methods:N=213 (67.1% female; MBMI=33.35kg/m2, SDBMI=3.79kg/m2) participants who were included in a weight loss program (I-GENDO project) reported BMI and completed questionnaires before the start of the treatment. Food Addiction severity, depressive symptoms, alcohol use disorder, internet use disorder, psychological distress, impulsivity personality trait, impulsive and emotional eating behaviour, food related inhibitory control, weight bias internalization, and self-efficacy were assessed.

Results: The prevalence of Food Addiction was 15% with higher, although not statistically significant, prevalence in female (18.2%) compared to male (8.6%) participants. Food Addiction was associated with higher BMI at baseline assessment, low self-esteem, impulsive and emotional eating behaviour, weight bias internalization, and deficits in food-related inhibitory control. In addition, correlations were found between Food Addiction and severity of depressive symptoms, internet use disorder, and psychological distress.

Conclusion: A relevant subgroup of participants experiences Food Addiction even when controlling for Binge-Eating-Disorder and Bulimia Nervosa. Future studies are warranted that investigate whether Food Addiction affects treatment success.
Synthetic Cells Engaged in Molecular Communication: An Opportunity for Modelling Shannon- and Semantic-Information in the Chemical Domain
Authors: Magarini Maurizio , Stano Pasquale
Published: September 2021

In this Perspective article we intend to focus on the opportunity of modelling Shannon information and/or “semantic” information in the field originated by the convergence of bottom-up synthetic biology (in particular, the construction of “synthetic cells”) and the engineering approaches to molecular communication. In particular we will argue that the emerging technology of synthetic cell fabrication will allow novel opportunities to study nano-scale communication and manipulation of information in unprecedented manner. More specifically, we will discuss the possibility of enquiring on the transfer and manipulation of information in the chemical domain, and interpreting such a dynamics according to Shannon or to MacKay-Bateson (“semantic” information).
Development of a Rapid Mangrove Zonation Mapping Workflow Using Sentinel 2-Derived Indices and Biophysical Dataset
Authors: Baloloy Alvin B. , Blanco Ariel C. , Sharma Sahadev , Nadaoka Kazuo
Published: September 2021

Moderate to high resolution satellite imageries are commonly used in mapping mangrove cover from local to global scales. In addition to extent information, studies such as mangrove composition, ecology, and distribution analysis require further information on mangrove zonation. Mangrove zonation refers to unique sections within a mangrove forest being dominated by a similar family, genus, or species. This can be observed both in natural and planted mangrove forests. In this study, a mapping workflow was developed to detect zonation in test mangrove forest sites in Katunggan-It Ibajay (KII) Ecopark (Aklan), Bintuan (Coron), Bogtong, and Sagrada (Busuanga) in the Philippines and Fukido Mangrove Park (Ishigaki, Japan) using Sentinel-2 imagery. The methodology was then applied to generate a nationwide mangrove zonation map of the Philippines for year 2020. Combination of biophysical products, water, and vegetation indices were used as classification inputs including leaf area index (LAI), fractional vegetation cover (FVC), fraction of photosynthetically-active radiation (FAPAR), Canopy chlorophyll content (Cab), canopy water content (Cw), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), modified normalized difference water index (MNDWI), modified chlorophyll absorption in reflectance index (MCARI), and red-edge inflection point (REIP). Mangrove extents were first mapped using either the Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC) algorithm or the Mangrove Vegetation Index (MVI)-based methodology. The biophysical and vegetation indices within these areas were stacked and transformed through Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Regions of Interest (ROIs) were selected on the PCA bands as training input to the MLC. Results show that mangrove zonation maps can highlight the major mangrove zones in the study sites, commonly limited up to genera level only except for genera with only one known species thriving in the area. Four zones were detected in KII Ecopark: Avicennia zone, Nypa zone, Avicennia mixed with Nypa zone, and mixed mangroves zones. For Coron and Busuanga, the mapped mangrove zones are mixed mangroves, Rhizophora zone and sparse/damaged zones. Three zones were detected in Fukido site: Rhizophora stylosa-dominant zone, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza-dominant zone, and mixed mangrove zones. The zonation maps were validated using field plot data and orthophotos generated from Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) surveys, with accuracies ranging from 75 to 100%.
Efficacy of Hemiarthroplasty vs. Locking Plate Fixation for Proximal Humerus Fractures: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Deng Jiali , Zhang Shuai , Yu Yuanyuan , Zhang Li , Zhang Li , Jiang Wen , Yang Kai , Xi Xiaoyan
Published: September 2021

Background: Proximal humerus fractures are common in a clinic and account for ~6% of all adult fractures. Hemiarthroplasty (HA) or locking plate (LP) fixation is currently recommended for the treatment of complex proximal humerus fractures (PHFs); however, there is no uniform standard for optimal surgical treatment or functional recovery. We conducted a meta-analysis to compare the efficacy of LP and HA in the treatment of PHFs.

Methods: Relative studies associated with HA and LP were searched in December 2020 in the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and OVID databases. The quality of the studies, functional outcomes (including the Constant-Murley score (CMS), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (ASES), Simple Shoulder Test (SST), Short Form Health Survey (SF-12v2), complications, and reoperation rate were extracted and analyzed with the Stata 14.0 software.

Results: A total of 958 patients from 12 studies were included in the meta-analysis, which showed that patients treated with LP had a significantly lower reoperation rate, a higher complication rate, and a higher CMS score than those treated with HA. There were no significant differences in ASES, SST, or SF-12v2 scores between treatment groups.

Conclusions: Compared with HA, LP exhibited better clinical efficacy in some aspects. However, large sample and randomized, controlled studies are needed for further validation.
Occurrence of Multi-Drug-Resistant Escherichia coli in Chickens, Humans, Rodents and Household Soil in Karatu, Northern Tanzania
Authors: Sonola Valery S. , Katakweba Abdul S. , Misinzo Gerald , Matee Mecky I. N.
Published: September 2021

We investigated antibiotic resistance profiles of Escherichia coli among 960 samples obtained from chickens (236), humans (243), rodents (101) and soil (290). E. coli was isolated from 650 (67.7%) samples. Isolation frequency varied significantly between chickens, humans, rodents and soil samples, being 81.6%, 86.5%, 79.2% and 31.0%, respectively (p < 0.001). Resistance rates were particularly higher against imipenem (79.8%), cefotaxime (79.7%) and tetracycline (73.7%) and moderate against amoxicillin-clavulanate (49.4%). Overall, 78.8% of the isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR) among which, 38.8%, 25.1%, 12.9% and 2.5% exhibited resistance to three, four, five and six different classes of antibiotics, respectively. Multidrug-resistant E. coli were observed in 27.7%, 30.3%, 10.8% and 10.0% of the isolates from chickens, humans, rodents and soil samples, respectively. Our results show high levels of antimicrobial resistance including MDR in E. coli isolated from chickens, humans, rodents and soil samples in Karatu, Northern Tanzania. Comprehensive interventions using a one-health approach are needed and should include improving (i) awareness of the community on judicious use of antimicrobial agents in humans and animals, (ii) house conditions and waste management and (iii) rodent control measures.
Genetic Polymorphisms, Gene–Gene Interactions and Neurologic Sequelae at Two Years Follow-Up in Newborns with Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Treated with Hypothermia
Authors: Esih Katarina , Goričar Katja , Soltirovska-Šalamon Aneta , Dolžan Vita , Rener-Primec Zvonka
Published: September 2021

Inflammation and oxidative stress after hypoxic-ischemic brain injury may be modified by genetic variability in addition to therapeutic hypothermia. The aim of our study was to evaluate the association between the polymorphisms in genes of antioxidant and inflammatory pathways in newborns treated with therapeutic hypothermia and the development of epilepsy or CP at two years follow-up. The DNA of 55 subjects was isolated from buccal swabs. Genotyping using competitive allele-specific PCR was performed for polymorphisms in antioxidant (SOD2 rs4880, CAT rs1001179, GPX1 rs1050450) and inflammatory (NLRP3 rs35829419, CARD8 rs2043211, IL1B rs1143623, IL1B rs16944, IL1B rs10716 76, TNF rs1800629) pathways. Polymorphic CARD8 rs2043211 T allele was less frequent in patients with epilepsy, but the association was not statistically significant. The interaction between CARD8 rs2043211 and IL1B rs16944 was associated with epilepsy after HIE: CARD8 rs2043211 was associated with lower epilepsy risk, but only in carriers of two normal IL1B rs16944 alleles (ORadj = 0.03 95% CI = 0.00–0.55; padj = 0.019). Additionally, IL1B rs16944 was associated with higher epilepsy risk only in carriers of at least one polymorphic CARD8 rs2043211 (ORadj = 13.33 95% CI = 1.07–166.37; padj = 0.044). Our results suggest that gene–gene interaction in inflammation pathways might contribute to the severity of brain injury in newborns with HIE treated with therapeutic hypothermia.
Management of Feline Hyperthyroidism and the Need to Prevent Oxidative Stress: What Can We Learn from Human Research?
Authors: Candellone Alessia , Saettone Vittorio , Badino Paola , Girolami Flavia , Radice Elisabetta , Bergero Domenico , Odore Rosangela , Meineri Giorgia
Published: September 2021

Feline hyperthyroidism is a clinical syndrome related to an excessive production of thyroid hormones, and it is considered as a spontaneous animal model for human thyrotoxicosis. Many shared features between the feline and the human disease have been identified so far, including pathogenesis, clinical signs, and treatment options. Although methimazole is considered the first-choice drug in both species, several side effects have been described. Furthermore, methimazole could interfere with the oxidative status, already perturbated by the disease. It has been reported in humans that dietary management, mainly through antioxidant supplementation, could mitigate this oxidative burden. The purpose of the review is to describe current therapeutic options in the course of feline hyperthyroidism and to summarize the state of the art relationship between dietary antioxidants administration and the reduction of methimazole side-effects in humans to support the use of this approach also in cats.
Sulfane Sulfur Regulates LasR-Mediated Quorum Sensing and Virulence in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1
Authors: Xuan Guanhua , Lv Chuanjuan , Xu Huangwei , Li Kai , Liu Huaiwei , Xia Yongzhen , Xun Luying
Published: September 2021

Sulfane sulfur, such as inorganic and organic polysulfide (HSn− and RSn−, n > 2), is a common cellular component, produced either from hydrogen sulfide oxidation or cysteine metabolism. In Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, LasR is a quorum sensing master regulator. After binding its autoinducer, LasR binds to its target DNA to activate the transcription of a suite of genes, including virulence factors. Herein, we report that the production of hydrogen sulfide and sulfane sulfur were positively correlated in P. aeruginosa PAO1, and sulfane sulfur was able to modify LasR, which generated Cys188 persulfide and trisulfide and produced a pentasulfur link between Cys201 and Cys203. The modifications did not affect LasR binding to its target DNA site, but made it several-fold more effective than unmodified LasR in activating transcription in both in vitro and in vivo assays. On the contrary, H2O2 inactivates LasR via producing a disulfide bond between Cys201 and Cys203. P. aeruginosa PAO1 had a high cellular sulfane sulfur and high LasR activity in the mid log phase and early stationary phase, but a low sulfane sulfur and low LasR activity in the declination phase. Thus, sulfane sulfur is a new signaling factor in the bacterium, adding another level of control over LasR-mediated quorum sensing and turning down the activity in old cells.
Structural Studies of Aliphatic Glucosinolate Chain-Elongation Enzymes
Authors: Kitainda Vivian , Jez Joseph M.
Published: September 2021

Plants evolved specialized metabolic pathways through gene duplication and functional divergence of enzymes involved in primary metabolism. The results of this process are varied pathways that produce an array of natural products useful to both plants and humans. In plants, glucosinolates are a diverse class of natural products. Glucosinolate function stems from their hydrolysis products, which are responsible for the strong flavors of Brassicales plants, such as mustard, and serve as plant defense molecules by repelling insects, fighting fungal infections, and discouraging herbivory. Additionally, certain hydrolysis products such as isothiocyanates can potentially serve as cancer prevention agents in humans. The breadth of glucosinolate function is a result of its great structural diversity, which comes from the use of aliphatic, aromatic and indole amino acids as precursors and elongation of some side chains by up to nine carbons, which, after the formation of the core glucosinolate structure, can undergo further chemical modifications. Aliphatic methionine-derived glucosinolates are the most abundant form of these compounds. Although both elongation and chemical modification of amino acid side chains are important for aliphatic glucosinolate diversity, its elongation process has not been well described at the molecular level. Here, we summarize new insights on the iterative chain-elongation enzymes methylthioalkylmalate synthase (MAMS) and isopropylmalate dehydrogenase (IPMDH).