bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gypsy, Traveller and Roma experiences, views and needs in palliative and end of life care: a systematic literature review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Dixon Kathryn Charlotte , Ferris Rebecca , Kuhn Isla , Spathis Anna , Barclay Stephen
Published: February 2021

Background

Gypsy, Traveller and Roma communities are known to experience health inequalities. There has been little focus on palliative care in these communities despite the well-recognised inequalities of access to palliative care in other minority ethnic groups.

Methods

Systematic review and thematic analysis of the current evidence concerning palliative care experiences, views and needs of Gypsy, Traveller and Roma communities. Medline, Embase, Emcare, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus, AMED, Global Health, Psychological and Behavioural Sciences Collection and BNI were searched up to November 2020, alongside author and citation searching. NHS England, Hospice UK, National Audit Office and OpenGrey were searched as grey literature sources. Gough’s ‘Weight of Evidence’ framework was used for quality appraisal.

Results

Thirteen papers from eight studies were included in the synthesis. Although there was variation between communities, three overarching and inter-related themes were identified. (1) Strong family and community values include a preference for healthcare to be provided from within the community, duty to demonstrate respect by attending the bedside and illness as a community problem with decision-making extending beyond the patient. (2) Distinct health beliefs regarding superstitions around illness, personal care, death rituals and bereavement. (3) Practical barriers to non-community healthcare provision include communication difficulties, limited awareness of and access to services, tensions between patients and healthcare professionals and lack of training in delivering culturally appropriate care.

Conclusion

A wide range of factors influence Gypsy, Traveller and Roma community access to palliative care. Community diversity requires sensitive and highly individualised approaches to patient care.

PROSPERO registration number

42019147905.
The mid-Cretaceous Peninsular Ranges orogeny: a new slant on Cordilleran tectonics? II: northern United States and Canada
Authors: Hildebrand Robert S. , Whalen Joseph B.
Published: February 2021

The mid-Cretaceous Peninsular Ranges orogeny occurred in the North American Cordillera and affected rocks from Mexico to Alaska. It formed when a marine trough, open for ∼35 million years, closed by westerly subduction beneath a 140–100 Ma arc complex. In Part I, we described the features of the orogen in Mexico and California, west to east: back-arc trough, magmatic arc, 140–100 Ma seaway, post-collisional 99–84 Ma granodioritic–tonalitic plutons emplaced into the orogenic hinterland during exhumation, an east-vergent thrust belt, and farther east, a flexural foredeep. In western Nevada, where the Luning–Fencemaker thrust might be a mid-Cretaceous feature, arc and post-collisional plutons occur in proximity. The orogen continues through the Helena salient and Washington Cascades. In British Columbia, rocks of the 130–100 Ma Gambier arc lie west of the exhumed orogenic hinterland and 99–84 Ma post-collisional plutons to collectively indicate westerly subduction. East-dipping reverse faults near Harrison Lake, active from ∼100 Ma until ∼90 Ma, shed 99–84 Ma debris westward into the Nanaimo back-arc region. Within Insular Alaska, the Early Cretaceous Gravina basinal arc assemblage was deformed at 100 Ma and flanked to the east by a high-grade hinterland cut by post-collisional plutons. In mainland Alaska, the 100 Ma collision of Wrangellia and the Yukon–Tanana–Farewell composite terrane occurred above a southward-dipping subduction zone as shown by the 130–100 Ma Chisana arc sitting on Wrangellia and southward-dipping, northerly vergent thrusts in the Lower Cretaceous Kahiltna basin to the north. The outboard back-arc region was filled with post-collisional detritus of the McHugh complex.
Is X(7200) the heavy anti-quark diquark symmetry partner of X(3872)?
Authors: Liu Ming-Zhu , Geng Li-Sheng
Published: February 2021

The$$D^{(*)}\Xi _{cc}^{(*)}$$D(∗)Ξcc(∗)system and$${\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}^{(*)}\Xi _{cc}^{(*)}$$Ξ¯cc(∗)Ξcc(∗)system can be related to the$$D^{(*)}{\bar{D}}^{(*)}$$D(∗)D¯(∗)system via heavy anti-quark di-quark symmetry (HADS). In this work, we employ a contact-range effective field theory to systematically investigate the likely existence of molecules in these systems in terms of the hypothesis that X(3872) is a$$1^{++}~D{\bar{D}}^{*}$$1++DD¯∗bound state in the isospin symmetry limit, with some of the unknown low energy constants estimated using the light-meson saturation approximation. In the meson–meson system, a$$J^{PC}=2^{++}~{\bar{D}}^{*}D^{*}$$JPC=2++D¯∗D∗molecule commonly referred to asX(4013) is reproduced, which is the heavy quark spin partner ofX(3872). In the meson-baryon system, we predict two triply charmed pentaquark molecules,$$J^{P}=1/2^{-}~D^{*}\Xi _{cc}$$JP=1/2-D∗Ξccand$$J^{P}=5/2^{-}~D^{*}\Xi _{cc}^{*}$$JP=5/2-D∗Ξcc∗. In the baryon-baryon system, there exist seven di-baryon molecules,$$J^{PC}=0^{-+}~{\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}\Xi _{cc}$$JPC=0-+Ξ¯ccΞcc,$$J^{PC}=1^{--}~{\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}\Xi _{cc}$$JPC=1--Ξ¯ccΞcc,$$J^{PC}=1^{-+}~{\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}\Xi _{cc}^{*}$$JPC=1-+Ξ¯ccΞcc∗,$$J^{PC}=1^{--}~{\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}\Xi _{cc}^{*}$$JPC=1--Ξ¯ccΞcc∗,$$J^{PC}=2^{-+}~{\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}\Xi _{cc}^{*}$$JPC=2-+Ξ¯ccΞcc∗,$$J^{PC}=2^{-+}~{\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}^{*}\Xi _{cc}^{*}$$JPC=2-+Ξ¯cc∗Ξcc∗, and$$J^{PC}=3^{--}~{\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}^{*}\Xi _{cc}^{*}$$JPC=3--Ξ¯cc∗Ξcc∗. Among them, the$$J^{PC}=0^{-+}~{\bar{\Xi }}_{cc}\Xi _{cc}$$JPC=0-+Ξ¯ccΞccmolecule may contribute to theX(7200) state recently observed by the LHCb Collaboration, which implies thatX(7200) can be related toX(3872) via HADS. As a byproduct, with the heavy quark flavor symmetry we also study likely existence of molecular states in the$$B^{(*)}{\bar{B}}^{(*)}$$B(∗)B¯(∗),$${\bar{B}}^{(*)}\Xi _{bb}^{(*)}$$B¯(∗)Ξbb(∗), and$${\bar{\Xi }}_{bb}^{(*)}\Xi _{bb}^{(*)}$$Ξ¯bb(∗)Ξbb(∗)systems.
Tissue-wide integration of mechanical cues promotes effective auxin patterning
Authors: D. Ramos João R. , Maizel Alexis , Alim Karen
Published: February 2021

New plant organs form by local accumulation of auxin, which is transported by PIN proteins that localize following mechanical stresses. As auxin itself modifies tissue mechanics, a feedback loop between tissue mechanics and auxin patterning unfolds—yet the impact of tissue-wide mechanical coupling on auxin pattern emergence remains unclear. Here, we use a model composed of a vertex model for plant tissue mechanics and a compartment model for auxin transport to explore the collective mechanical response of the tissue to auxin patterns and how it feeds back onto auxin transport. We compare a model accounting for a tissue-wide mechanical integration to a model that regards cells as mechanically isolated. We show that tissue-wide mechanical coupling not only leads to more focused auxin spots via stress redistribution, but that it also mitigates the disruption to patterning when considering noise in the mechanical properties of each cell of the tissue. We find that this mechanism predicts that a local turgor increase correlates with auxin concentration, and yet auxin spots can exist regardless of the exact local turgor distribution.
Horizontal diameter of unit spheres with polar foliations and infinitesimally polar actions
Authors: Shi Yi
Published: February 2021

For a singular Riemannian foliation [Formula: see text] on a Riemannian manifold, a curve is called horizontal if it meets the leaves of [Formula: see text] perpendicularly. For a singular Riemannian foliation [Formula: see text] on a unit sphere [Formula: see text], we show that if [Formula: see text] is a polar foliation or if [Formula: see text] is given by the orbits of an infinitesimally polar action, then the horizontal diameter of [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text], i.e. any two points in [Formula: see text] can be connected by a horizontal curve of length [Formula: see text].
How to Keep an Eye on Small Things
Authors: Nilsson Bengt J. , Żyliński Paweł
Published: February 2021

We present new results on two types of guarding problems for polygons. For the first problem, we present an optimal linear time algorithm for computing a smallest set of points that guard a given shortest path in a simple polygon having [Formula: see text] edges. We also prove that in polygons with holes, there is a constant [Formula: see text] such that no polynomial-time algorithm can solve the problem within an approximation factor of [Formula: see text], unless P=NP. For the second problem, we present a [Formula: see text]-FPT algorithm for computing a shortest tour that sees [Formula: see text] specified points in a polygon with [Formula: see text] holes. We also present a [Formula: see text]-FPT approximation algorithm for this problem having approximation factor [Formula: see text]. In addition, we prove that the general problem cannot be polynomially approximated better than by a factor of [Formula: see text], for some constant [Formula: see text], unless P [Formula: see text]NP.
Stick numbers of Montesinos knots
Authors: Lee Hwa Jeong , No Sungjong , Oh Seungsang
Published: February 2021

Negami found an upper bound on the stick number [Formula: see text] of a nontrivial knot [Formula: see text] in terms of the minimal crossing number [Formula: see text]: [Formula: see text]. Huh and Oh found an improved upper bound: [Formula: see text]. Huh, No and Oh proved that [Formula: see text] for a [Formula: see text]-bridge knot or link [Formula: see text] with at least six crossings. As a sequel to this study, we present an upper bound on the stick number of Montesinos knots and links. Let [Formula: see text] be a knot or link which admits a reduced Montesinos diagram with [Formula: see text] crossings. If each rational tangle in the diagram has five or more index of the related Conway notation, then [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, if [Formula: see text] is alternating, then we can additionally reduce the upper bound by [Formula: see text].
A Color Image Encryption Algorithm with Cat Map and Chaos Map Embedded
Authors: Li Guodong , Han Xuejuan
Published: February 2021

In order to deal with the problem of encryption algorithms being overly simplistic, and the relatively low security of color images that creates potential to be attacked in the transmission process, this paper will introduce a new encryption algorithm that is designed to divide color images into R, G and B layers. In the scrambling operation: the first scrambling is aimed to block the clear text image scrambling; The second scrambling is the dynamic Arnold scrambling of the ciphertext after the first scrambling. In the diffusion operation, the scrambled ciphertext image was taken as the input, and the pseudo-random sequence generated by Tent mapping and Sine mapping was embedded. The sequence generated by Logistic mapping was used to select sub-blocks for block diffusion of the image. Tent-Sine mapping was applied to the second diffusion to obtain the final ciphertext image. The algorithm designed in this paper combines image block scrambling and dynamic Arnold scrambling, the scrambling degree of each layer of image pixels would be greatly improved, thus improving the security of color images. In the process of diffusion, chaos sequence is selected for diffusion operation, which increases the difficulty of decoding ciphertext. The simulation results show that the new algorithm has desirable encryption effect, strong key sensitivity and large key space, and complex encryption algorithm can effectively resist attacks, which certainly has value in image information security.
Design of Lighting Intelligent Control System Based on OpenCV Image Processing Technology
Authors: Gong Suning , Kumar Rakesh , Kumutha D.
Published: February 2021

The high growth of vehicular travel in urban areas, in particular, requires a traffic control system that optimizes traffic flow efficiency. Traffic congestion can also occur by large de-lays in Red Light etc. The delay in lighting is difficult to code and does not rely on real traffic density. It follows that traffic controls are simulated and configured to better meet this rising demand. So, in order to avoid the traffic control problem, the Adaptive Intelligent Traffic Light control system (AITLCS) has been proposed based on OpenCV and Image processing technique. The system proposed is designed to ensure smooth and efficient traffic flow for daily life as well as emergency and public transportation safety. Based on the road density instead of the levels set the proposed system provides the timing for the traffic light signal so that a highly loaded side switched on over long periods compared with the other lanes. It can also be used at an intersection with traffic signs, which controls the traffic light signal at the intersection. If timers are smart to predict the exact time, the system is more efficient because it reduces the time spent on unintended green signal significantly. With the help of OpenCV software, this paper aims to have a signal management SMART solution that will be cost-effective at the end. The system consists of a camera facing a lane taking pictures of the route we want to travel and then the density of the pedestrian and vehicle is taken and compared with each image employing image processing. Such images are processed effectively to learn the density of traffic.
Gravitationally induced particle creation in cubic gravity
Authors: Jawad Abdul , Maqsood Sadaf
Published: February 2021

In this work, we consider gravitationally induced particle creation scenario to discuss the validity of thermodynamic laws in the context of cubic gravity which is based on an invariant term and constructed from cubic contraction of the Riemann tensor. We consider spatially flat FRW universe filled with a perfect fluid assuming an equation of state [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text]. By taking the Hubble horizon as the boundary of the universe, we investigate the first and generalized second law of thermodynamics along with thermodynamic equilibrium in the presence of Bekenstein entropy. In order to view the clear picture of these laws, we take into account two models of particle creation rate [Formula: see text] which are constrained with recent observational data. It is found that the validity of these laws holds for the suitable values of model parameters in the specific ranges of redshift parameter for both models.
The congruence 𝒴∗ on quasi completely regular semirings
Authors: Maity S. K. , Ghosh R.
Published: February 2021

A semiring [Formula: see text] is said to be a quasi-orthodox semiring if for any [Formula: see text], there exists some positive integer [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we investigate the congruence generated by [Formula: see text] on quasi completely regular semirings with and without the special conditions like being quasi-orthodox. We further establish that the interval which [Formula: see text] belongs to is [Formula: see text].
The transformation of patient-clinician relationships with AI-based medical advice
Authors: Nov Oded , Aphinyanaphongs Yindalon , Lui Yvonne W. , Mann Devin , Porfiri Maurizio , Riedl Mark , Rizzo John-Ross , Wiesenfeld Batia
Published: February 2021

A "bring your own algorithm" era in healthcare.
Knowledge graphs
Authors: Gutierrez Claudio , Sequeda Juan F.
Published: February 2021

Tracking the historical events that lead to the interweaving of data and knowledge.
Out-of-this-world additive manufacturing
Authors: Frazelle Jessie
Published: February 2021

From thingamabobs to rockets, 3D printing takes many forms.
The decline of computers as a general purpose technology
Authors: Thompson Neil C. , Spanuth Svenja
Published: February 2021

Technological and economic forces are now pushing computing away from being general purpose and toward specialization.
Enabling renewable energy through smarter grids
Authors: Oakes Graham
Published: February 2021

Computing enabled me to …
Informing California privacy regulations with evidence from research
Authors: Cranor Lorrie Faith
Published: February 2021

Designing and testing 'Do Not Sell My Personal Information' icons.
50 years of Pascal
Authors: Wirth Niklaus
Published: February 2021

The Pascal programming language creator Niklaus Wirth reflects on its origin, spread, and further development.
Review—Recent Advances in Microfabrication, Design and Applications of Amperometric Sensors and Biosensors
Authors: Baracu Angela Mihaela , Dinu Gugoasa Livia Alexandra
Published: February 2021

Over the past decade, the development of amperometric sensors and biosensors using microfabrication techniques has gained considerable attention. This interdisciplinary approach aims at bringing together scientific fields such as: chemistry, physics, engineering and biology to achieve devices’ miniaturization, integration and automatization. Among the technologies that have been reviewed for the fabrication of the microelectrodes, the most common are: soft lithography and microfabrication techniques, such as physical vapor deposition of different metals, photolithography, chemical wet etching method and anodic bonding process. The required parameters in the design of a microfabricated electrode array, such as inter-electrode distance, the three-electrode system, and the role of each electrode have been intensively discussed. This review provides an overview about the state-of-the-art microfabrication devices and their applications, as well as the recent advances in the fabrication of microelectrodes as transducers for amperometric sensors, immunosensors and biosensors with various applications in environmental, biomedical and pharmaceutical fields.
Voltammetric Quantification of Diclofenac Using a Modified CPE Enriched With TiO2Nanoparticles and MWCNT
Authors: Franco-Guzmán Miriam , Mendoza-Huizar Luis Humberto , Roa-Morales Gabriela , Galán-Vidal Carlos Andrés , Álvarez-Romero Giaan Arturo
Published: February 2021

This work describes the development of a voltammetric methodology based on a carbon paste electrode enriched with multiwalled carbon nanotubes and TiO2nanoparticles, for the electrochemical quantification of diclofenac. All stages of the methodology were optimized by a Box-Behnken experimental design. The electrochemical behavior of diclofenac was studied by cyclic voltammetry. Results showed that the oxidation of diclofenac is favored by the presence of both MWCNT and TiO2nanostructures since a considerable increase in the anodic peak current is observed when compared to a that obtained with a bare carbon paste electrode. Under the optimal values found and with the appropriate statistical analysis, a LOD of 0.33μM, a LOQ of 1.11μM, a linear concentration range from 1.1 × 10−6to 5 × 10−3M (R2= 0.9958), and a sensitivity of 0.487μA.μM−1were found. The electrode’s response was precise as the reproducibility resulted to be 4.39% (%RSD). Finally, a study of possible interferences was performed, along with the quantification of diclofenac in pharmaceutical samples by the proposed voltammetric methodology. The voltammetric method was validated by comparing the results with those obtained with the UV–vis spectrophotometric method.
Anodic Stabilities of Various Metals as the Current Collector in High Concentration Electrolytes for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Piao Nan , Wang Li , He Xiangming
Published: February 2021

Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)amide (LiFSI)-based electrolytes not only deliver improved ionic conductivity, but also provide high thermal stability and water tolerance. However, the notorious corrosion of sulfonamide anions against aluminum (Al) current collector restricts their application. High concentration electrolytes (HCEs) have been proposed as alternative electrolytes for lithium batteries owning to their merits of good electrochemical performance and less flammability. Although HCEs have been proved stable to many alkaline cathodes and anodes in the past reports, their compatibility with other battery components, such as the current collector, has not been clearly reported. Herein, electrochemical stabilities of various metals in LiFSI/dimethyl carbonate (DMC) electrolytes were characterized by linear sweep voltammetry and cyclic voltammogram. According to results, when the concentration of the LiFSI/DMC electrolyte is higher than 1:3 (salt/solvent) by molar for Al, and 1:1.2 for titanium (Ti) and stainless steel (SS304), the three materials can be used as the cathode current collector or the other battery components. Moreover, Al that exhibits the best electrochemical stability is still the most ideal current collector compared to other metals. Notably, in the LiFSI:DMC (1:1.5) electrolyte with an Al current collector, stable battery performance with a remaining capacity of 98.8% after 50 cycles can be obtained.
Oriented Hexagonal Phase NaGdF4:Eu3+ Films Made through Electrodeposition
Authors: Luo Ying , Zhang Shiyi , Gong Jianying , Liu Run
Published: February 2021

Hexagonal phase NaGdF4:Eu3+ thin films with (110) preferred orientation were made by electrodeposition onto fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) conductive glass in an aqueous solution in which N-(2-Hydroxyethyl) ethylenediaminetriacetic acid (HEDTA) acted as a complexing agent coordinating with rare earth ions (RE3+) to form RE3+-HEDTA as precursor. The in situ electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance and cyclic voltammetry methods were applied to study the mechanism and initial process of electrodeposition of NaGdF4:Eu3+ films. The structures and morphologies of films were observed by XRD and SEM and they were varied with applied potential and deposition temperature. As for down conversion property, oriented NaGdF4:Eu3+thin film shows much stronger emission intensity and higher quantum yield than its less-oriented film.
Soluble α-klotho anchors TRPV5 to the distal tubular cell membrane independent of FGFR1 by binding TRPV5 and galectin-1 simultaneously
Authors: Lee Jinho , Ju Kyung Don , Kim Hyo Jin , Tsogbadrakh Bodokhsuren , Ryu Hyunjin , Kang Eunjeong , Kang Minjung , Yang Jaeseok , Kang Hee Gyung , Ahn Curie , Oh Kook-Hwan
Published: February 2021

Soluble α-klotho anchors transient receptor potential vanilloid type 5 (TRPV5) on the apical membrane of the distal tubule by binding both TRPV5 and a membrane-abundant protein, galectin-1. This newly discovered mechanism works even when fibroblast growth factor (FGF)23 signaling is inhibited by treatment with FGF receptor type 1 inhibitor. Therefore, we identified how soluble α-klotho increases TRPV5 without FGF23. We confirmed this mechanism by observing that soluble α-klotho fails to enhance TRPV5 when both FGF receptor type 1 and galectin-1 are inhibited.
The novel STING antagonist H151 ameliorates cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury and mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Gong Wei , Lu Lingling , Zhou Yu , Liu Jiaye , Ma Haoyang , Fu Lvhan , Huang Songming , Zhang Yue , Zhang Aihua , Jia Zhanjun
Published: February 2021

Although various stimulator of interferon genes (STING) inhibitors have been identified, no research was performed to investigate the role of human STING inhibitors in AKI. Here, we evaluated the effect of H151 targeting both human and murine STING on cisplatin-induced AKI and observed a protection against renal injury possibly through ameliorating inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Quantitative Study of Residual Oil Distribution during Water Flooding through Digital Core Analysis
Authors: Liu Xuechao , Ren Dazhong , Dong Fengjuan , Nan Junxiang , Zhou Ran
Published: February 2021

The character of residual oil formed during water flooding, one important technique to enhance oil recovery, is helpful to further study permeability and recovery in tight sandstone oil reservoirs. In this paper, we take a tight sandstone reservoir in Ordos Basin as the research object and use in situ displacement X-CT scanning technology to analyze the dynamic characteristics of oil during water flooding. Firstly, core pore radius and oil storage space radius were measured from digital cores which are acquired in different water flooding stages by X-CT scanning technology. Secondly, analytical and evaluation methods were established to describe fluid distribution in the pore space of the core in different water flooding stages based on curve similarity. Finally, by numerical results, we analyzed the oil distribution features in the process of water flooding for core samples. In this paper, the oil distribution characteristics during water flooding are revealed based on digital core analysis. Also, a quantitative evaluation method is given to provide theoretical guidance.
Stromal Vascular Fraction and Amniotic Epithelial Cells: Preclinical and Clinical Relevance in Musculoskeletal Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Veronesi Francesca , Maglio Melania , Contartese Deyanira , Martini Lucia , Muttini Aurelio , Fini Milena
Published: February 2021

Musculoskeletal regenerative medicine is mainly based on the use of cell therapy to heal damaged tissues such as bone, cartilage, and tendons. Throughout the years, different cell types have been employed for the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases, in particular, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from bone marrow (BMSCs) and adipose tissue (ADSCs). Though the results of these literature studies have been encouraging, there are some limitations, especially on long-term results. Recently, some interest has shifted towards new cell types such as the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and amniotic endothelial cells (AECs). The aim of the present literature review is to evaluate preclinical and clinical studies that used SVF and AECs for musculoskeletal tissue regeneration. Forty-eight preclinical and clinical studies, performed in the last 10 years, were identified. Both SVF and AECs, injected or implanted with or without scaffolds, were shown to be valid alternatives, and in some ways superior, to ADSCs and BMSCs, being able to differentiate towards osteogenic, chondrogenic, and tenogenic lineages, and to promote cell and tissue regenerative potential. The use of SVF and AECs could represent a new regenerative treatment in several musculoskeletal pathologies, solving the problem of cell expansion in vitro.
Serum Levels of Irisin and Omentin-1 in Breast Neoplasms and Their Association with Tumor Histology
Authors: Panagiotou Grigorios , Triantafyllidou Sofia , Tarlatzis Basil C. , Papakonstantinou Eleni
Published: February 2021

Breast cancer is associated with obesity, possibly due to direct effects of adipokines and myokines, such as omentin-1 and irisin. In this study, we aimed to evaluate omentin-1 and irisin levels in women with benign and/or malignant breast neoplasms vs. healthy controls. Disease-free individuals (N = 56) and patients with histologically proven benign (N = 61) or malignant tumor (N = 96; subdivided into recently diagnosed/treatment-naïve (N = 72) and chemotherapy-treated (N = 24) subgroups) were enrolled in this study. Demographic, biochemical, and tumor histological characteristics were recorded. Body composition parameters were assessed using bioelectrical impedance. Serum irisin and omentin-1 levels were quantified with ELISA kits. In adjusted models, irisin levels were higher in both benign and malignant cases compared to controls but were comparable between neoplasms. Further adjustment for omentin-1 levels showed that age (odds ratio (OR) = 1.05, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = (1.02, 1.08),

p
<
0.01

) and irisin levels (OR = 5.30, 95% CI = (1.24, 22.38),

p
=
0.03

) were independent predictors of the presence of malignancy. These molecules were associated with each other and with other anthropometric and demographic parameters. Irisin was associated with tumor histological characteristics including Ki67% levels, Elston-Ellis grading system, and estrogen receptors status. Omentin-1 was also associated with the Elston-Ellis grading system. In conclusion, serum irisin is increased in patients with both benign and malignant diseases of the breast. When combined with omentin-1, irisin concentration was associated with the presence of breast malignancy. This molecule’s role as a potential diagnostic and/or prognostic agent in breast malignancies warrants further investigation in larger prospective studies.
Psychometric Properties of the Sensory Processing and Self-Regulation Checklist: English Version
Authors: Gomez Ivan Neil B. , Calsa Angelika Pauline , Esguerra Jerika Toni , Penetrante Prince Joseph Heric , Porlucas Kenneth , Santos Maria Erica , Umali Carla Beatrice , Lai Cynthia Y. Y.
Published: February 2021

Background. Sensory processing supports children’s development and abilities to participate in activities across contexts. Self-regulation skills may influence how children process various sensory experiences in daily life activities. The Sensory Processing and Self-Regulation Checklist (SPSRC) is a 130-item caregiver-reported checklist, covering children’s essential sensory processing and self-regulation performance in daily activities. Objectives. This study examines the psychometric properties of the SPSRC (English version) in measuring the sensory processing and self-regulation abilities of children. Methods. A preliminary field testing of the SPSRC-English was conducted in a sample of

n
=
194

children (164 without disability and 30 with a disability) to evaluate its reliability and validity properties. Results. The SPSRC-English was shown to have high internal consistency and test-retest reliability; and good discriminant, structural, and criterion validity in the sensory processing and self-regulation abilities of children with and without disability ages 4-12 years. Conclusion. The current study provides initial evidence on the reliability and validity of SPSRC-English in measuring the sensory processing and self-regulation abilities in children with and without a disability. The SPSRC-English may provide salient information supporting the understanding of sensory processing difficulties among children.
Association of Maternal History of Allergic Features with Preterm Pregnancy Outcomes in the Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Saito-Abe Mayko , Yamamoto-Hanada Kiwako , Pak Kyongsun , Sato Miori , Irahara Makoto , Mezawa Hidetoshi , Sasaki Hatoko , Nishizato Minaho , Ishitsuka Kazue , Konishi Mizuho , Yang Limin , Ohya Yukihiro , Suzuki Kohta ,   the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS) Group
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Previous studies have reported that maternal asthma increases the risk of preterm birth. We hypothesized that inflammatory reactions caused by allergic diseases might affect the uterine environment and, subsequently, perinatal outcomes. The objective of this study was to examine the associations between allergic features among mothers and preterm pregnancy outcomes in a nationwide birth cohort. Methods: We analyzed data from pregnant women obtained from the Japanese Environment and Children’s Study (JECS), a nationwide general birth cohort study. We used binomial and multinomial logistic regression models to examine the associations between maternal allergic features and preterm birth, threatened preterm labor (TPL), and preterm premature rupture of the membrane (PPROM). Results: A total of 97,683 pregnant women were included. Prevalence of preterm birth, TPL, and PPROM was 4.7, 19.6, and 1.2%, respectively. Maternal history of allergic diseases (asthma, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, food allergy, drug allergy, and contact dermatitis) increased the risk of TPL(adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.11 [95% CI: 1.06–1.17], aOR = 1.12 [1.08–1.16], aOR = 1.10 [1.04–1.16], aOR = 1.17 [1.09–1.26], aOR = 1.35 [1.23–1.48], and aOR = 1.34 [1.20–1.49], respectively). Although some maternal allergic features showed a negative association with preterm birth, the variables affecting preterm birth differed according to the gestational age of the fetus (22–33 weeks vs. 34–36 weeks). There were no significant associations between maternal allergic features and PPROM. Conclusion: Maternal allergic disease, except atopic dermatitis, may increase the risk of TPL. Comorbidity of maternal allergic disorders and perinatal adverse outcomes require further investigation.
Comparison study between seven-level SVPWM and two-level SVPWM strategy in direct vector control of a DFIG-based wind energy conversion systems
Authors: Benbouhenni Habib
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we present a comparative study between two-level space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) and seven-level SVPWM strategy in direct vector control (DVC) of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) based wind energy conversion systems (WECSs). The feasibility and effectiveness of the two strategies are demonstrated by simulation results. The obtained results showed that, the proposed DVC strategy with Seven-level SVPWM technique have stator and rotor current with low harmonic distortion and low active and reactive powers ripples than two-level SVPWM strategy.
Distribution power system reconfiguration using whale optimization algorithm
Authors: Soliman Mahmoud , Abdelaziz Almoataz Y. , El-Hassani Rabab M.
Published: February 2021

This study discusses how to enhance the power distribution system and one of the most important ways to do that is by reconfiguration of the power system. Reconfiguration means changing the topology of the radial distribution network by changing the status of switches. The objective is to minimize the total power loss and enhance the voltage profile. Many optimization techniques were used to solve this problem such as classical optimization which is proven to be time consuming method and heuristic methods which are more efficient in our problem here. In this paper, the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) which is one of the modern heuristic optimization techniques and it has high efficiency to solve discrete optimization problems, is used to get the optimum case in reconfiguration problem. WOA is applied to (33 bus system, 69 bus system, and 118 bus system) and results are compared to other heuristic methods.
Bending the Curve in Cardiovascular Disease Mortality
Authors: Goff David Calvin , Khan Sadiya Sana , Lloyd-Jones Donald , Arnett Donna K. , Carnethon Mercedes R. , Labarthe Darwin R. , Loop Matthew Shane , Luepker Russell V. , McConnell Michael V. , Mensah George A. , Mujahid Mahasin S. , O’Flaherty Martin Enrique , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Roger Véronique , Rosamond Wayne D. , Sidney Stephen , Wei Gina S. , Wright Janet S.
Published: February 2021

More than 40 years after the 1978 Bethesda Conference on the Declining Mortality from Coronary Heart Disease provided the scientific community with a blueprint for systematic analysis to understand declining rates of coronary heart disease, there are indications the decline has ended or even reversed despite advances in our knowledge about the condition and treatment. Recent data show a more complex situation, with mortality rates for overall cardiovascular disease, including coronary heart disease and stroke, decelerating, whereas those for heart failure are increasing. To mark the 40th anniversary of the Bethesda Conference, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the American Heart Association cosponsored the “Bending the Curve in Cardiovascular Disease Mortality: Bethesda + 40” symposium. The objective was to examine the immediate and long-term outcomes of the 1978 conference and understand the current environment. Symposium themes included trends and future projections in cardiovascular disease (in the United States and internationally), the evolving obesity and diabetes epidemics, and harnessing emerging and innovative opportunities to preserve and promote cardiovascular health and prevent cardiovascular disease. In addition, participant-led discussion explored the challenges and barriers in promoting cardiovascular health across the lifespan and established a potential framework for observational research and interventions that would begin in early childhood (or ideally in utero). This report summarizes the relevant research, policy, and practice opportunities discussed at the symposium.
The Review Mechanism of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and Its Protocols
Authors: Ponti Christian
Published: February 2021

This essay analyses the main features of the Review Mechanism of the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) and its Protocols, in the perspective of the peer review methodology. Some interesting indications as to the Review Mechanism’s legitimacy may be drawn from comparing it with other peer review systems in the field of transnational criminal law and human rights law. Although the UNTOC Review Mechanism’s institutional design reveals many structural flaws, a strong commitment by the States parties to promoting the best standards of the peer review methodology could arguably contribute to increasing its overall legitimacy and effectiveness, far beyond its formal constraints.
Integrating the UNCAC and the UNTOC for Effective Prevention and International Cooperation
Authors: Zvekić Uglješa Ugi
Published: February 2021

The inextricable links between transnational organized crime, on the one hand, and corruption, on the other, require a more integrated approach between the international instruments aimed at preventing and tackling such phenomena, i.e., respectively, the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime and the UN Convention against Corruption, as well as between their review mechanisms. Moreover, the role played by civil society in the framework of the UNTOC and UNCAC review mechanisms should be furthered, thus drawing inspiration from the Universal Periodic Review.
Anselmo Castelo Branco: Profiling an Alchemist Prophet
Authors: Leitão José Vieira
Published: February 2021

The prophet, alchemist, and physician Anselmo Castelo Branco, while not an unknown name in Portuguese letters, still stands as a largely misunderstood author of the intellectually troubled Portuguese eighteenth century. He is mostly known for his alchemical opus, the Ennoea, and so far scholars have only given superficial attention to his non-alchemical works, leading to significant bias.

While not denying Castelo Branco’s relevance as a medical and alchemical writer, this article hopes to be the first to offer a detailed reconstruction of this author’s biography as well as an extensive analysis of all his known written works. Besides his known contributions to the sciences, his ideas on the Portuguese messianic cult of Sebastianism, prognostication, and the definition of accurate prophecy are analyzed, revealing a complex and nuanced vision which aimed to harmonize the fragmented fields of Portuguese eighteenth-century messianism and millenarianism.
American Cerambycidae (Coleoptera): Four new species, new records and taxonomic notes
Authors: HEFFERN DANIEL , SANTOS-SILVA ANTONIO , NASCIMENTO FRANCISCO E. L.
Published: February 2021

Four new species are described: Caribbomerus jaliscanus sp. nov. (Cerambycinae, Graciliini), from Mexico; Championa zarazagai sp. nov. and Championa chihuahuaensis sp. nov. (Cerambycinae, incertae sedis), both from Mexico; and Scopadus selkingi sp. nov. (Lamiinae, Acanthomerosternoplini), from Panama. We also propose keys for the following genera: Neocompsa Martins, 1965; Placoclytus Chemsak & Linsley, 1974; Nyssicus Pascoe, 1859; Championa Bates, 1880, and Scopadus Pascoe, 1857. Additionally, the differences between Hypexilis Horn, 1885 and Caribbomerus Vitali, 2003 are provided, Caribbomerus howdeni (Napp & Martins, 1984) is synonymized with Hypexilis pallida Horn, 1885, and new records are registered.
A new species of Alpheus Fabricius, 1798 (Decapoda: Caridea: Alpheidae) from the Caribbean coast of Panama
Authors: ANKER ARTHUR , LERAY MATTHIEU , PACHELLE PAULO P.G.
Published: February 2021

Alpheus viserion sp. n. is described based on the material from Bocas del Toro archipelago on the Caribbean coast of Panama. The new species is morphologically closest to three members of the speciose A. armillatus H. Milne-Edwards, 1837 species complex, viz. A. carlae Anker, 2012, A. angulosus McClure, 2002, and A. tenuis Kim & Abele, 1988, differing from them, as well as from all the other species currently included in this complex, by a suite of morphological characters and a diagnostic colour pattern. With the description of yet another new shrimp species from Bocas del Toro, the authors hope to contribute to the awareness that this archipelago represents one of the most biologically diverse places in the Caribbean Sea and to encourage the preservation of the remaining natural habitats of this unique area.
A bio-syringe mechanism and the pattern of genital correspondence in the weevil genus Sitona (Coleoptera: Curculionidae): an approach to the great interest of Sharp and Muir
Authors: ALICHI MAHMOOD
Published: February 2021

The remarkable diversity in male and female genital morphology among the species of Sitona Germar might contribute to the understanding of the structural “lock-and-key” isolating mechanism. Recently, it has been found that in spite of the phallic sizes in male weevils of the genus Sitona, their internal sacs should precisely match with the vaginal infoldings of conspecific females. The present research also deals with the male transfer apparatus, which is a special organ for insemination procedure inside the female bursa copulatrix. A wedge-shaped structure with a fused ejaculatory pump was distinguished as the bio-syringe part of the transfer apparatus in the examined species. Two paired sclerites of the transfer apparatus support the bio-syringe, so that it would slide freely between them and lock precisely over the opening of the spermathecal duct inside the bursa copulatrix of the female. In this phenomenon, several new structures were also found, including a bursal sclerite (“bursal disc”) and a pair of miniature pouches (“bursal plugs”) which are embedded in the thickened wall of the female bursal lumen. These findings explain how the shapes of male and female copulatory organs are normally species-specific and provide an opportunity for understanding the role of the structural lock-and-key isolating mechanism.
Two new Cotasteromimina from Borneo (Coleoptera, Curculionidae: Molytinae)
Authors: GERMANN CHRISTOPH
Published: February 2021

Based on material collected by canopy fogging in forests on Borneo, Obhylius arboricola gen. nov., sp. nov., and Seticotasteromimus brunomanseri sp. nov., the second species of this genus, are described. Further records of the type species of Seticotasteromimus Germann, 2013, S. jarawa Germann, 2013, are presented from Borneo, some 2700 km distant from the type locality on the Andaman Islands. Along with Seticotasteromimus, the new genus is best placed in the subtribe Cotasteromimina.
New species of Mayawa Fletcher and description of a related new Australian leafhopper genus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae: Paralimnini)
Authors: DIETRICH CHRISTOPHER H.
Published: February 2021

Five new species of the endemic Australian leafhopper genus Mayawa Fletcher, 2000 (M. affinifacialis sp. nov., M. bimaculata sp. nov., M. brevicephala sp. nov., M. kathyae sp. nov. and M. vestigia sp. nov.) are described and illustrated and a revised key to species is provided. One of the new species tested positive for a previously unknown strain of phytoplasma belonging to the 16SrV group. The related paralimnine genus Austroauridius gen. nov. based on A. iwaii sp. nov. from Queensland is also described and illustrated and a key to known genera of Australian Paralimnini is provided.
A National Survey of Robotic Surgery Training Among Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Residents
Authors: McCrary Hilary C. , McLean Sierra R. , Luman Abigail , O’Sullivan Patricia , Smith Brigitte , Cannon Richard B.
Published: February 2021

Objective:

The aim of this study is to describe the current state of robotic surgery training among Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) residency programs in the United States.

Methods:

This is a national survey study among OHNS residents. All OHNS residency programs were identified via the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education website. A total of 64/127 (50.3%) of OHNS programs were selected based on a random number generator. The main outcome measure was the number of OHNS residents with access to robotic surgery training and assessment of operative experience in robotic surgery among those residents.

Results:

A total of 140 OHNS residents participated in the survey, of which 59.3% (n = 83) were male. Response rate was 40.2%. Respondents came from middle 50.0% (n = 70), southern 17.8% (n = 25), western 17.8% (n = 25), and eastern sections 14.3% (n = 20). Most respondents (94.3%, n = 132) reported that their institution utilized a robot for head and neck surgery. Resident experience at the bedside increased in the junior years of training and console experience increased across the years particularly for more senior residents. However, 63.4% of residents reported no operative experience at the console. Only 11.4% of programs have a structured robotics training program.

Conclusion:

This survey indicated that nearly all OHNS residencies utilize robotic surgery in their clinical practice with residents receiving little formal education in robotics or experience at the console. OHNS residencies should aim to increase access to training opportunities in order to increase resident competency.

Level of Evidence:

IV
A Comparison of Maximum Likelihood Estimations for Normal Mean under Right Censoring
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Zhang Xiaoxia
Published: February 2021

For efficiently estimating the normal mean ([Formula: see text]) under right censoring (threshold =[Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is known), we compare two approaches within the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) framework. Approach I is a hierarchical MLE for which only the empirical censoring probability is utilized. Approach II is the direct MLE for which expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm is applied to all individual observations. We use discrete approximation to explain that the asymptotic variance of Approach II estimate equals the inverse Fisher information calculated from the full log-likelihood. We prove that Approach II gives a uniformly smaller asymptotic variance than Approach I and the variance ratio is a decreasing function of [Formula: see text]. We further prove some supportive results and graphically demonstrate that EM algorithm monotonically converges to the unique MLE.
Evaluating Different Scoring Methods for Multiple Response Items Providing Partial Credit
Authors: Betts Joe , Muntean William , Kim Doyoung , Kao Shu-chuan
Published: February 2021

The multiple response structure can underlie several different technology-enhanced item types. With the increased use of computer-based testing, multiple response items are becoming more common. This response type holds the potential for being scored polytomously for partial credit. However, there are several possible methods for computing raw scores. This research will evaluate several approaches found in the literature using an approach that evaluates how the inclusion of scoring related to the selection/nonselection of both relevant and irrelevant information is incorporated extending Wilson’s approach. Results indicated all methods have potential, but the plus/minus and true/false methods seemed the most promising for items using the “select all that apply” instruction set. Additionally, these methods showed a large increase in information per time unit over the dichotomous method.