bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Software Defects for Object-Oriented Software Using Search-based Techniques
Authors: Malhotra Ruchika , Jain Juhi
Published: March 2021

Development without any defect is unsubstantial. Timely detection of software defects favors the proper resource utilization saving time, effort and money. With the increasing size and complexity of software, demand for accurate and efficient prediction models is increasing. Recently, search-based techniques (SBTs) have fascinated many researchers for Software Defect Prediction (SDP). The goal of this study is to conduct an empirical evaluation to assess the applicability of SBTs for predicting software defects in object-oriented (OO) softwares. In this study, 16 SBTs are exploited to build defect prediction models for 13 OO software projects. Stable performance measures — GMean, Balance and Receiver Operating Characteristic-Area Under Curve (ROC-AUC) are employed to probe into the predictive capability of developed models, taking into consideration the imbalanced nature of software datasets. Proper measures are taken to handle the stochastic behavior of SBTs. The significance of results is statistically validated using the Friedman test complied with Wilcoxon post hoc analysis. The results confirm that software defects can be detected in the early phases of software development with help of SBTs. This paper identifies the effective subset of SBTs that will aid software practitioners to timely detect the probable software defects, therefore, saving resources and bringing up good quality softwares. Eight SBTs — sUpervised Classification System (UCS), Bioinformatics-oriented hierarchical evolutionary learning (BIOHEL), CHC, Genetic Algorithm-based Classifier System with Adaptive Discretization Intervals (GA_ADI), Genetic Algorithm-based Classifier System with Intervalar Rule (GA_INT), Memetic Pittsburgh Learning Classifier System (MPLCS), Population-Based Incremental Learning (PBIL) and Steady-State Genetic Algorithm for Instance Selection (SGA) are found to be statistically good defect predictors.
Communication—In Situ Hydrogen Evolution Detection from Mg Electrode During Anodic Potentiodynamic Polarization Measurement with Gas-Chromatographic Analysis
Authors: Hoshi Yoshinao , Hirayama Yusuke , Watanabe Hikari , Shitanda Isao , Itagaki Masayuki
Published: March 2021

An in situ hydrogen gas detection system was developed to determine the hydrogen evolution rate (HER) from Mg during anodic potentiodynamic polarization (APP) curve measurement. The system, which is composed of an electrochemical cell and a gas-chromatograph, allows for successive determination of HER during the APP curve measurement because evolved gas was delivered directly to the gas-chromatograph using Ar carrier gas. As the HER could be determined every 104 s after starting APP measurement from corrosion potential, the HER could be plotted against polarization potential. It was confirmed that the HER was correlated with anodic current values in the APP curve.
An Optimal Design Method for Compliant Mechanisms
Authors: Le Chau Ngoc , Tran Ngoc Thoai , Dao Thanh-Phong
Published: March 2021

Compliant mechanisms are crucial parts in precise engineering but modeling techniques are restricted by a high complexity of their mechanical behaviors. Therefore, this paper devotes an optimal design method for compliant mechanisms. The integration method is a hybridization of statistics, finite element method, artificial intelligence, and metaheuristics. In order to demonstrate the superiority of the method, one degree of freedom is considered as a study object. Firstly, numerical datasets are achieved by the finite element method. Subsequently, the main design parameters of the mechanism are identified via analysis of variance. Desirability of both displacement and frequency of the mechanism is determined, and then, they are embedded inside a fuzzy logic system to combine into a single fitness function. Then, the relationship between the fine design variables and the fitness function is modeled using the adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system. Next, the single fitness function is maximized via moth-flame optimization algorithm. The optimal results determined that the frequency is 79.517 Hz and displacement is 1.897 mm. In terms of determining the global optimum solution, the current method is compared with the Taguchi, desirability, and Taguchi-integrated fuzzy methods. The results showed that the current method is better than those methods. Additionally, the devoted method outperforms the other metaheuristic algorithms such as TLBO, Jaya, PSOGSA, SCA, ALO, and LAPO in terms of faster convergence. The result of this study will be considered to apply for multiple-degrees-of-freedom compliant mechanisms in future work.
The Role of Genetic Testing in the Evaluation of Dilated Cardiomyopathies
Authors: Agboola Kolade M. , McGill Trevon , Boilson Barry A. , Pereira Naveen L. , Jentzer Jacob C.
Published: March 2021

We present an adolescent African American male admitted to the cardiac intensive care unit with cardiogenic shock and acute respiratory failure. Through an overview of his presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment, we demonstrate the clinical utility of genetic testing in the evaluation of unexplained dilated cardiomyopathies.
Process Variation-Resistant Golden-Free Hardware Trojan Detection through a Power Side Channel
Authors: Yuan Yidong , Zhang Yao , Zhao Yiqiang , Zhang Xige , Tang Ming
Published: March 2021

With the globalization of the manufacturing supply chain, the malicious modification existing in the middle of distrust is becoming an important security issue on the chip. These modifications are called hardware Trojan (HT). HT is difficult to detect due to its high concealment and diversity of implementation. HT detection based on the side channel is a relatively effective detection method because it does not need to trigger the Trojan or destroy the chip. However, detection based on the side channel faces two major challenges. Firstly, the side channel detection is quite dependent on the golden model. The second one relates to the accuracy of the samples. Side channel information of the chip comes from the hardware manufacturing process and implementation, so it is obviously affected by process variation. In the existing work, many self-reference detection methods have been proposed to solve the problem of missing golden models. However, the existing methods often have special requirements for the circuit structure (such as the need for self-similar structures in the circuit). And, they can hardly resist process variation. This paper combines design and detection. We select the power consumption generated at different times and construct two self-reference ‘knapsack’ to detect HT. The solution proposed in this article is a kind of self-reference method, but we need neither self-similar structures nor the same state of some clocks in the circuit. Meanwhile, by constructing the ‘knapsack,’ we reduce the impact of process variation on detection accuracy because the process variation in the two sets of power consumption is balanced.
Hidden on both sides of the Alps: Rubus noricus, a new species of bramble (Rosaceae) from Austria and Germany

Authors: HOHLA MICHAEL , PAGITZ KONRAD , KIRÁLY GERGELY
Published: March 2021

Rubus ser. Rhamnifolii includes apomictic polyploid species, which occur in north-western and central Europe, with rare outposts to eastern central Europe. A regionally distributed tetraploid species of the series occurring north and south of the Eastern Alps in Austria and Germany, Rubus noricus is described here. The new species is morphologically compared with similar taxa of the series, moreover, comprehensive iconography, data on distribution and ecology are presented.
On two new species of Cypricercus Sars, 1895 (Crustacea, Ostracoda) from Brazil with a discussion on the taxonomy of the genus
Authors: DE ALMEIDA NADINY MARTINS , FERREIRA VITOR GÓIS , HIGUTI JANET , MARTENS KOEN
Published: March 2021

We describe two new species of Cypricercus, Cypricercus alfredo sp. nov. and Cypricercus tiao sp. nov., and briefly redescribe the female of Cypricercus centrurus (Klie, 1940) from Brazilian floodplains. Both new species have the elongated carapace which is characteristic of the genus. Cypricercus alfredo sp. nov. was found as both sexual and asexual populations and has a posterior spine on the right valve and differs from the Brazilian C. centrurus by the position and the size of spine and the size and shape of the carapace. Cypricercus tiao sp. nov. was found as one asexual population only and lacks a posterior spine on the right valve. Cypricercus populations in Brazil mostly consist exclusively of asexual females, but some sexual populations and populations with mixed reproduction can also be found. This genus occurs primarily in the Southern Hemisphere, but some species can also be found in the southern part of North America and in India. We also present a re-appraisal of all species presently allocated to the genus, primarily based on original descriptions.
Oxynoemacheilus amanos, a new nemacheilid loach from the Orontes River drainage (Teleostei: Nemacheilidae)
Authors: KAYA CÜNEYT , YOĞURTÇUOĞLU BARAN , FREYHOF JÖRG
Published: March 2021

Oxynoemacheilus amanos, new species, is described from İncesu spring in the upper Hupnik drainage, a northern tributary of the lower Orontes in Turkey. It is distinguished from the other Oxynoemacheilus species in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea basin by possession of an incomplete lateral line with 23–45 pores, terminating between the vertical through the dorsal fin origin and the anus, 10–13 pores in the infraorbital canal, a deeply emarginate caudal fin, no suborbital groove in the male, and a series of irregularly shaped and set dark-brown bars on the flank, not connected to saddles on the back.
Real Time Child Infant Mortality Analysis for Efficient Public Health Development
Authors: Sudha K. , Venkatesan G.
Published: March 2021

The problem of child health management and development has been well studied. There are number of methods available for the problem of child health development but suffers to achieve higher performance. To improve the performance, an efficient real time child infant mortality analysis
for improved health development using multi feature covariance measure (MFCM). The method maintains number of data records of various child and infants from the age of 1 month to 15 years. For each child or infant, the method maintains continuous records of their health diagnosis. Using the
data maintained, the method identifies and groups them according to the cause of death. Using the cluster generated, the method estimates health factor influence (HFI) for different features. Based on the value of HFI, a set of features which has higher HFI are selected and used to generate
analysis. Further the method generates a prediction result on the future mortality and the reasons. The method improves the performance of mortality prediction and increases the accuracy also.
Quasi Oppositional Glowworm Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Energy Efficient Clustering in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Alamelu R. M. , Prabu K.
Published: March 2021

Wireless sensor network (WSN) becomes popular due to its applicability in distinct application areas like healthcare, military, search and rescue operations, etc. In WSN, the sensor nodes undergo deployment in massive number which operates autonomously in harsh environment. Because
of limited resources and battery operated sensor nodes, energy efficiency is considered as a main design issue. To achieve, clustering is one of the effective technique which organizes the set of nodes into clusters and cluster head (CH) selection takes place. This paper presents a new Quasi
Oppositional Glowworm Swarm Optimization (QOGSO) algorithm for energy efficient clustering in WSN. The proposed QOGSO algorithm is intended to elect the CHs among the sensor nodes using a set of parameters namely residual energy, communication cost, link quality, node degree and node marginality.
The QOGSO algorithm incorporates quasi oppositional based learning (QOBL) concept to improvise the convergence rate of GSO technique. The QOGSO algorithm effectively selects the CHs and organizes clusters for minimized energy dissipation and maximum network lifetime. The performance of the
QOGSO algorithm has been evaluated and the results are assessed interms of distinct evaluation parameters.
Nanocrystals as Tool to Enhance Stigmasterol Oral Bioavailability
Authors: Pireddu Rosa , Sinico Chiara , Ennas Guido , Valenti Donatella , Marongiu Francesca , Maria Fadda Anna , Schlich Michele , Lai Francesco
Published: March 2021

Phytosterols are sterols naturally occurring in plant cells and well known for their cholesterollowering activity, as witnessed by the large number of food supplements based on these functional ingredients available on the market. However, the marked hydrophobic character of phytosterols
makes their solubility in biological fluids extremely low, with disadvantageous consequences on the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. In this work, we explore the effect of particle size reduction on the water solubility of stigmasterol, one of the most abundant phytosterols, through
the formulation of nanocystals. A robust, top-down production process was employed to prepare stigmasterol nanocrystals, subsequently characterized by thermal and spectroscopic techniques. When formulated as nanocrystals, the solubility of stigmasterol in water and in simulated gastro-intestinal
fluids was boosted compared to the raw material. The increased solubility of stigmasterol nanocrystals makes such formulation a promising candidate for the development of medicinal/nutraceutical products with enhanced bioavailability.
Drug-Excipients Compatibility Studies in Proniosomal Formulation: A Case Study with Resveratrol
Authors: Schlich Michele , Lai Francesco , Maria Fadda Anna , Sinico Chiara , Pini Elena
Published: March 2021

Proniosomal drug delivery system is one of the advancements in nanotechnology. Similarly to traditional dosage forms, chemical and physical compatibility of proniosomes components with the active ingredient(s) is a key step in the preformulation process of such systems. In this work,
the compatibility of resveratrol with selected excipients in the development of proniosomal formulation was investigated by thermal and spectroscopic techniques. To evaluate the drug-excipient compatibility, different techniques such as differential scanning calorimetric study, attenuated
total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study and powder X-ray diffraction were adopted. The results showed that the excipients used in the formulation were compatible with resveratrol.
Bioimaging Applications of Non-Lamellar Liquid Crystalline Nanoparticles
Authors: Murgia Sergio , Biffi Stefania , Fornasier Marco , Lippolis Vito , Picci Giacomo , Caltagirone Claudia
Published: March 2021

Self-assembling processes of amphiphilic lipids in water give rise to complex architectures known as lyotropic liquid crystalline (LLC) phases. Particularly, bicontinuous cubic and hexagonal LLC phases can be dispersed in water forming colloidal nanoparticles respectively known as cubosomes
and hexosomes. These non-lamellar LLC dispersions are of particular interest for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications as they are potentially non-toxic, chemically stable, and biocompatible, also allowing encapsulation of large amounts of drugs. Furthermore, conjugation of specific moieties
enables their targeting, increasing therapeutic efficacies and reducing side effects by avoiding exposure of healthy tissues. In addition, as they can be easy loaded or functionalized with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic imaging probes, cubosomes and hexosomes can be used for the engineering
of multifunctional/theranostic nanoplatforms. This review outlines recent advances in the applications of cubosomes and hexosomes for in vitro and in vivo bioimaging.
Deformation Behavior of Various Interconnection Structures Using Fine Pitch Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) Vertical Probe
Authors: Luc Le Xuan , Eul Lee Han , Choa Sung-Hoon
Published: March 2021

Recently, fine pitch wafer level packaging (WLP) technologies have drawn a great attention in the semiconductor industries. WLP technology uses various interconnection structures including microbumps and through-silicon-vias (TSVs). To increase yield and reduce cost, there is an increasing
demand for wafer level testing. Contact behavior between probe and interconnection structure is a very important factor affecting the reliability and performance of wafer testing. In this study, with a MEMS vertical probe, we performed systematic numerical analysis of the deformation behavior
of various interconnection structures, including solder bump, copper (Cu) pillar bump, solder capper Cu bump, and TSV. During probing, the solder ball showed the largest deformation. The Cu pillar bump also exhibited relatively large deformation. The Cu bump began to deform at OD of 10 μm.
At OD of 20 μm, bump pillar was compressed, and the height of the bump decreased by 8.3%. The deformation behavior of the solder capped Cu bump was similar to that of the solder ball. At OD of 20 μm, the solder and Cu bumps were largely deformed, and the total height was
reduced by 11%. The TSV structure showed the lowest deformation, but exerted the largest stress on the probe. In particular, copper protrusion at the outer edge of the via was observed, and very large shear stress was generated between the via and the silicon oxide layer. In summary, when
probing various interconnection structures, the probe stress is less than that when using an aluminum pad. On the other hand, deformation of the structure is a critical issue. In order to minimize damage to the interconnection structure, smaller size probes or less overdrive should be used.
This study will provide important guidelines for performing wafer-level testing and minimizing damage of probes and interconnection structures.
Cytomegalovirus-specific T-cell reconstitution following letermovir prophylaxis after hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Zamora Danniel , Duke Elizabeth R. , Xie Hu , Edmison Bradley C. , Akoto Brenda , Kiener Richard , Stevens-Ayers Terry , Wagner Ralf , Mielcarek Marco , Leisenring Wendy M. , Jerome Keith R. , Schiffer Joshua T. , Finak Greg , De Rosa Stephen C. , Boeckh Michael
Published: March 2021

Decreased cytomegalovirus (CMV)-specific immunity after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is associated with late CMV reactivation and increased mortality. Whether letermovir prophylaxis-associated reduction in viral exposure influences CMV-specific immune reconstitution is unknown. In a prospective cohort of allogeneic HCT recipients who received letermovir, we compared polyfunctional CMV-specific T-cell responses to those of controls who received PCR-guided preemptive therapy before the introduction of letermovir. Thirteen-color flow cytometry was used to assess T-cell responses at 3 months after HCT following stimulation with CMV immediate early-1 (IE-1) antigen and phosphoprotein 65 (pp65) antigens. Polyfunctionality was characterized by combinatorial polyfunctionality analysis of antigen-specific T-cell subsets. Use of letermovir and reduction of viral exposure were assessed for their association with CMV-specific T-cell immunity. Polyfunctional T-cell responses to IE-1 and pp65 were decreased in letermovir recipients and remained diminished after adjustment for donor CMV serostatus, absolute lymphocyte count, and steroid use. Among letermovir recipients, greater peak CMV DNAemia and increased viral shedding were associated with stronger CD8+ responses to pp65, whereas the CMV shedding rate was associated with greater CD4+ responses to IE-1. In summary, our study provided initial evidence that letermovir may delay CMV-specific cellular reconstitution, possibly related to decreased CMV antigen exposure. Evaluating T-cell polyfunctionality may identify patients at risk for late CMV infection after HCT.
Reduced calf muscle pump function is a risk factor for venous thromboembolism: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Houghton Damon E. , Ashrani Aneel , Liedl David , Mehta Ramila A. , Hodge David O. , Rooke Thom , Wennberg Paul , Wysokinski Waldemar , McBane Robert
Published: March 2021

The calf muscle pump is a major determinate of venous return in the legs but has not been studied as a risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE). A population-based cohort study of Olmsted County, Minnesota residents was performed using calf pump function (CPF) measurements from venous plethysmography studies from 1998 to 2015. Patients with a history of VTE were excluded. Nursing validated VTE outcomes from the Rochester Epidemiology Project were identified after the index study date, and patients with reduced CPF (rCPF) were compared with patients with normal CPF. A total of 1532 patients with recorded CPF (28% air and 72% strain gauge plethysmography) were included; 591 (38.5%) had normal CPF, 353 (23.0%) had unilateral rCPF, and 588 (38.3%) had bilateral rCPF. Any VTE occurred in 87 patients (5.7%) after a median follow-up of 11.7 years (range, 0-22.0 years). Comparing patients with bilateral reduced to bilateral normal CPF, the unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) for incident VTE was 2.0 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2-3.4) and after adjusting for age, BMI, and Charlson Comorbidity Index, the HR was 1.68 (95% CI, 0.98-2.89). The adjusted HR for ipsilateral deep vein thrombosis was evaluated in 3064 legs comparing legs with reduced to normal CPF and was 1.71 (95% CI, 1.03-2.84). Mortality was significantly higher in both the bilateral (P < .001) and unilateral (P < .001) rCPF groups compared with normal CPF. Our results demonstrate that CPF is a risk factor for VTE in an otherwise low-risk ambulatory population and might be a useful component in risk stratification models.
Structural and thermal evolution of the eastern Aar Massif: insights from structural field work and Raman thermometry
Authors: Nibourel Lukas , Berger Alfons , Egli Daniel , Heuberger Stefan , Herwegh Marco
Published: March 2021

The thermo-kinematic evolution of the eastern Aar Massif, Swiss Alps, was investigated using peak temperature data estimated from Raman spectroscopy of carbonaceous material and detailed field analyses. New and compiled temperature-time constraints along the deformed and exhumed basement-cover contact allow us to (i) establish the timing of metamorphism and deformation, (ii) track long-term horizontal and vertical orogenic movements and (iii) assess the influence of temperature and structural inheritance on the kinematic evolution. We present a new shear zone map, structural cross sections and a step-wise retrodeformation. From$$\text{ca.\;26\,Ma}$$ca.\;26\,Maonwards, basement-involved deformation started with the formation of relatively discrete NNW-directed thrusts. Peak metamorphic isograds are weakly deformed by these thrusts, suggesting that they initiated before or during the metamorphic peak under ongoing burial in the footwall to the basal Helvetic roof thrust. Subsequent peak- to post-metamorphic deformation was dominated by steep, mostly NNW-vergent reverse faults ($$\text{ca.}$$ca. 22–14 Ma). Field investigations demonstrate that these shear zones were steeper than$$50^{\circ}$$50∘already at inception. This produced the massif-internal structural relief and was associated with large vertical displacements (7 km shortening vs. up to 11 km exhumation). From 14 Ma onwards, the eastern Aar massif exhumed “en bloc” (i.e., without significant differential massif-internal exhumation) in the hanging wall of frontal thrusts, which is consistent with the transition to strike-slip dominated deformation observed within the massif. Our results indicate 13 km shortening and 9 km exhumation between 14 Ma and present. Inherited normal faults were not significantly reactivated. Instead, new thrusts/reverse faults developed in the basement below syn-rift basins, and can be traced into overturned fold limbs in the overlying sediment, producing tight synclines and broad anticlines along the basement-cover contact. The sediments were not detached from their crystalline substratum and formed disharmonic folds. Our results highlight decreasing rheological contrasts between (i) relatively strong basement and (ii) relatively weak cover units and inherited faults at higher temperature conditions. Both the timing of basement-involved deformation and the structural style (shear zone dip) appear to be controlled by evolving temperature conditions.
Support, needs and expectations of family caregivers regarding general practitioners – results from an online survey
Authors: Wangler Julian , Jansky Michael
Published: March 2021

Background

Family caregivers are often the first line of support for people requiring care; although they may personally stand to benefit, these activities substantially increase the risk of physical and emotional stress. General practitioners (GPs) may provide important support and stabilisation, but need to adjust to the needs and expectations of this group in order to do so. The aim of the study was to compare the needs of family caregivers from GPs to the support they actually experience. Additional aims included determining the main factors affecting satisfaction amongst family caregivers with support from GPs. The results were used to develop possible approaches towards optimisation within the purview of general medical practice.

Methods

Between January and July 2020, 612 people supporting or caring for a family member responded to an online survey posted in seventeen internet forums focused on family caregivers. In addition to the descriptive analysis, a t-test with independent samples was used to identify significant differences between two groups. We also used binary logistic regression analysis to identify indications of potentially influential factors regarding the experienced support from GPs.

Results

Around three out of every four respondents (72%) consulted GPs in care matters. The respondents gave positive responses on their GP’s knowledge of the care situation (71%), approachability in various issues connecting with care and service towards the caregiver (82%). GPs’ efforts in meeting the needs and requirements of the care recipient were also rated positively (82%). Weaknesses in support from GPs mainly involved the lack of information on advice and assistance services (55%) as well as frequently not identifying or involving caregivers as such soon enough (42%). Results from regression analysis show that the last two aspects play a major role in subjective satisfaction amongst family caregivers with support from GPs.

Conclusions

We recommend that GPs undergo further training to reinforce awareness that the care triad of needs, requirements and stresses amongst family caregivers also plays a vital role in care outcomes. With this in mind, general practice staff should adopt a pre-emptive strategy towards approaching family members about potential issues and informing them about existing assistance and support services.
Independent and sensitive gait parameters for objective evaluation in knee and hip osteoarthritis using wearable sensors
Authors: Boekesteijn Ramon J. , Smolders José M. H. , Busch Vincent J. J. F. , Geurts Alexander C. H. , Smulders Katrijn
Published: March 2021

Background

Although it is well-established that osteoarthritis (OA) impairs daily-life gait, objective gait assessments are not part of routine clinical evaluation. Wearable inertial sensors provide an easily accessible and fast way to routinely evaluate gait quality in clinical settings. However, during these assessments, more complex and meaningful aspects of daily-life gait, including turning, dual-task performance, and upper body motion, are often overlooked. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate turning, dual-task performance, and upper body motion in individuals with knee or hip OA in addition to more commonly assessed spatiotemporal gait parameters using wearable sensors.

Methods

Gait was compared between individuals with unilateral knee (n = 25) or hip OA (n = 26) scheduled for joint replacement, and healthy controls (n = 27). For 2 min, participants walked back and forth along a 6-m trajectory making 180° turns, with and without a secondary cognitive task. Gait parameters were collected using 4 inertial measurement units on the feet and trunk. To test if dual-task gait, turning, and upper body motion had added value above spatiotemporal parameters, a factor analysis was conducted. Effect sizes were computed as standardized mean difference between OA groups and healthy controls to identify parameters from these gait domains that were sensitive to knee or hip OA.

Results

Four independent domains of gait were obtained: speed-spatial, speed-temporal, dual-task cost, and upper body motion. Turning parameters constituted a gait domain together with cadence. From the domains that were obtained, stride length (speed-spatial) and cadence (speed-temporal) had the strongest effect sizes for both knee and hip OA. Upper body motion (lumbar sagittal range of motion), showed a strong effect size when comparing hip OA with healthy controls. Parameters reflecting dual-task cost were not sensitive to knee or hip OA.

Conclusions

Besides more commonly reported spatiotemporal parameters, only upper body motion provided non-redundant and sensitive parameters representing gait adaptations in individuals with hip OA. Turning parameters were sensitive to knee and hip OA, but were not independent from speed-related gait parameters. Dual-task parameters had limited additional value for evaluating gait in knee and hip OA, although dual-task cost constituted a separate gait domain. Future steps should include testing responsiveness of these gait domains to interventions aiming to improve mobility.
Reproducibility and relative validity of a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire for the Chinese lactating mothers
Authors: Ding Ye , Li Fang , Hu Ping , Ye Mei , Xu Fangping , Jiang Wei , Yang Yue , Fu Youjuan , Zhu Yunhua , Lu Xiaolong , Liu Ying , Xie Zhencheng , Wang Zhixu
Published: March 2021

Background

The dietary nutritional status of the lactating mothers is related to maternal health and has a significant impact on the growth and development of infants through the secretion of breast milk. The food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) is the most cost-effective dietary assessment method that can help obtain information on the usual dietary pattern of participants. Until now, the FFQs have been used for different populations in China, but there are few FFQs available for the lactating mothers. We aimed to develop a semi-quantitative, 156-item FFQ for the Chinese lactating mothers, and evaluate its reproducibility and relative validity.

Methods

A total of 112 lactating mothers completed two FFQs and one 3-d dietary record (3DR). The first FFQ (FFQ1) was conducted during postpartum at 60–65 days and the second FFQ (FFQ2) during subsequent follow-up at 5 weeks. The 3DR was completed with portion sizes assessed using photographs taken by the respondent before and after eating (instant photography) 1 week after FFQ1.

Results

For reproducibility, the Spearman’s correlation coefficients for food ranged from 0.34 to 0.68, and for nutrients from 0.25 to 0.61. Meanwhile, the intra-class correlation coefficients for food ranged from 0.48 to 0.87, and for nutrients from 0.27 to 0.70. For relative validity, the Spearman’s correlation coefficients for food ranged from 0.32 to 0.56, and for nutrients from 0.23 to 0.72. The energy-adjusted coefficients for food ranged from 0.26 to 0.55, and for nutrients from 0.22 to 0.47. Moreover, the de-attenuation coefficients for food ranged from 0.34 to 0.67, and for nutrients from 0.28 to 0.77. The Bland-Altman plots also showed reasonably acceptable agreement between the two methods.

Conclusions

This FFQ is a reasonably reproducible and a relative valid tool for assessing dietary intake of the Chinese lactating mothers.
mRNA in cancer immunotherapy: beyond a source of antigen
Authors: Van Hoecke Lien , Verbeke Rein , Dewitte Heleen , Lentacker Ine , Vermaelen Karim , Breckpot Karine , Van Lint Sandra
Published: March 2021

mRNA therapeutics have become the focus of molecular medicine research. Various mRNA applications have reached major milestones at high speed in the immuno-oncology field. This can be attributed to the knowledge that mRNA is one of nature’s core building blocks carrying important information and can be considered as a powerful vector for delivery of therapeutic proteins to the patient.

For a long time, the major focus in the use of in vitro transcribed mRNA was on development of cancer vaccines, using mRNA encoding tumor antigens to modify dendritic cells ex vivo. However, the versatility of mRNA and its many advantages have paved the path beyond this application. In addition, due to smart design of both the structural properties of the mRNA molecule as well as pharmaceutical formulations that improve its in vivo stability and selective targeting, the therapeutic potential of mRNA can be considered as endless.

As a consequence, many novel immunotherapeutic strategies focus on the use of mRNA beyond its use as the source of tumor antigens. This review aims to summarize the state-of-the-art on these applications and to provide a rationale for their clinical application.
Comparison of the inner side and two-sided approaches for iliac crest bone graft harvesting for pediatric pelvic osteotomy
Authors: Chen Xin , Chen Kai , Su Yuxi
Published: March 2021

Background

The iliac crest is one of the most used bone graft sources. In this study, we aimed to identify the effects of inner side and two-sided approaches for iliac crest bone harvesting on post-surgery ilium growth in children.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively analyzed 47 patients who underwent pelvic osteotomy and iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) procedures from January 2015 to September 2018. The patients were divided into an inner table ilium exposure group (group A) and the inner-outer table ilium exposure group (group B) and were followed up with radiography in postoperative months 1, 3, 6, and 12, and the growth areas were measured using PACS software. Complications such as damage to the arteries or nerves, ureteral injury, gastrointestinal hernia, ileus, abnormal cosmetic appearance, sensory disturbances, and functional limitations were recorded based on clinical records.

Results

There were 22 patients aged 5.3±1.5 years in group A and 25 patients aged 5.9±1.8 years in group B. There were no significant differences in demographics between the two groups, or in growth in the first month. However, bone graft growth at months 3, 6, and 12 was significantly better in group A than in group B. There was no significant difference in complications between the two groups.

Conclusion

Exposure of only the inner table of the ilium resulted in faster recovery of the bone defect than two-sided exposure in pelvic osteotomy. Therefore, we suggest protecting the outer side of the ilium during surgery.

Level of evidence

Level III
Severe primary hypothyroidism in an apparently asymptomatic 19-year-old woman: a case report
Authors: Dannan Rania , Hajji Sulaiman , Aljenaee Khaled
Published: March 2021

Background

Hypothyroidism is diagnosed on the basis of laboratory tests because of the lack of specificity of the typical clinical manifestations. There is conflicting evidence on screening for hypothyroidism.

Case presentation

We report a case of an apparently healthy 19-year-old Kuwaiti woman referred to our clinic with an incidental finding of extremely high thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), tested at the patient’s insistence as she had a strong family history of hypothyroidism. Despite no stated complaints, the patient presented typical symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism on evaluation. Thyroid function testing was repeated by using different assays, with similar results; ultrasound imaging of the thyroid showed a typical picture of thyroiditis. Treatment with levothyroxine alleviated symptoms and the patient later became biochemically euthyroid on treatment.

Conclusion

There is controversy regarding screening asymptomatic individuals for hypothyroidism; therefore, it is important to maintain a high index of suspicion when presented with mild signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism especially with certain ethnic groups, as they may be free of the classical symptoms of disease.
New Hermite–Hadamard-type inequalities for "Equation missing"-convex fuzzy-interval-valued functions
Authors: Khan Muhammad Bilal , Noor Muhammad Aslam , Noor Khalida Inayat , Chu Yu-Ming
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we introduce the non-convex interval-valued functions for fuzzy-interval-valued functions, which are called "Equation missing"-convex fuzzy-interval-valued functions, by means of fuzzy order relation. This fuzzy order relation is defined level-wise through Kulisch–Miranker order relation given on the interval space. By using the "Equation missing"-convexity concept, we present fuzzy-interval Hermite–Hadamard inequalities for fuzzy-interval-valued functions. Several exceptional cases are debated, which can be viewed as useful applications. Interesting examples that verify the applicability of the theory developed in this study are presented. The results of this paper can be considered as extensions of previously established results.
Martínez López, C., Mirón Pérez, Mª. D., Gallego Franco, H. y Oria Segura, M.: Constructoras de ciudad. Mujeres y Arquitectura en el Occidente Romano. Editorial Comares, Col. “Mujeres, Historia y Feminismos”. Granada 2020
Authors: Domínguez Arranz Almudena
Published: March 2021

Recensión de la obra Martínez López, C., Mirón Pérez, Mª. D., Gallego Franco, H. y Oria Segura, M.: Constructoras de ciudad. Mujeres y Arquitectura en el Occidente Romano. Editorial Comares, Col. “Mujeres, Historia y Feminismos”. Granada 2020. ISBN 978-84-904-5900-3. 435 pp.
A Probabilistic Approach to Extended Finite State Mean Field Games
Authors: Carmona René , Wang Peiqi
Published: March 2021

We develop a probabilistic approach to continuous-time finite state mean field games. Based on an alternative description of continuous-time Markov chains by means of semimartingales and the weak formulation of stochastic optimal control, our approach not only allows us to tackle the mean field of states and the mean field of control at the same time, but also extends the strategy set of players from Markov strategies to closed-loop strategies. We show the existence and uniqueness of Nash equilibrium for the mean field game as well as how the equilibrium of a mean field game consists of an approximative Nash equilibrium for the game with a finite number of players under different assumptions of structure and regularity on the cost functions and transition rate between states.
‘I like to empower’
Authors: Thomas Amy
Published: March 2021

Amy Thomas share her experience of mentoring dental nurses, as well as masterminding training days for dentists and their teams
Implications of the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee recommendations for the treatment of genitourinary syndrome
Authors: Buttigieg George G , Micallef-Stafrace Kirill
Published: March 2021

The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee has issued statements regarding limiting the use of high-dose oestradiol creams by women experiencing the genitourinary syndrome of menopause, and such statements carry much medicolegal weight. Although a low dose is most often used, some clinicians opt to use higher dose creams with close monitoring of the patient. The committee should publish the evidence behind these statements or amend its official position.
Launching graphene surface plasmon waves with vanishingly small periodic grating structures
Authors: Nicholls David P. , Oh Sang-Hyun
Published: March 2021

Graphene is now a crucial component of many device designs in electronics and optics. Just like the noble metals, this single layer of carbon atoms in a honeycomb lattice can support surface plasmons, which are central to several sensing technologies in the mid-infrared regime. As with classical metal plasmons, periodic corrugations in the graphene sheet itself can be used to launch these surface waves; however, as graphene plasmons are tightly confined, the role of unwanted surface roughness, even at a nanometer scale, cannot be ignored. In this work, we revisit our previous numerical experiments on metal plasmons launched by vanishingly small grating structures, with the addition of graphene to the structure. These simulations are conducted with a recently devised, rapid, and robust high-order spectral scheme of the authors, and with it we carefully demonstrate how the plasmonic response of a perfectly flat sheet of graphene can be significantly altered with even a tiny corrugation (on the order of merely 5 nm). With these results, we demonstrate the primary importance of fabrication techniques that produce interfaces whose deviations from flat are on the order of angstroms.
Precision single-particle localization using radial variance transform
Authors: Kashkanova Anna D. , Shkarin Alexey B. , Mahmoodabadi Reza Gholami , Blessing Martin , Tuna Yazgan , Gemeinhardt André , Sandoghdar Vahid
Published: March 2021

We introduce an image transform designed to highlight features with high degree of radial symmetry for identification and subpixel localization of particles in microscopy images. The transform is based on analyzing pixel value variations in radial and angular directions. We compare the subpixel localization performance of this algorithm to other common methods based on radial or mirror symmetry (such as fast radial symmetry transform, orientation alignment transform, XCorr, and quadrant interpolation), using both synthetic and experimentally obtained data. We find that in all cases it achieves the same or lower localization error, frequently reaching the theoretical limit.
Ultrafast 3.5  µm fiber laser
Authors: Bawden Nathaniel , Henderson-Sapir Ori , Jackson Stuart D. , Ottaway David J.
Published: March 2021

We report, to the best of our knowledge, the first mode-locked fiber laser to operate in the femtosecond regime well beyond 3 µm. The laser uses dual-wavelength pumping and nonlinear polarization rotation to produce 3.5 µm wavelength pulses with minimum duration of 580 fs at a repetition rate of 68 MHz. The pulse energy is 3.2 nJ, corresponding to a peak power of 5.5 kW.
Enhanced cardiac vagal tone in mental fatigue: Analysis of heart rate variability in Time-on-Task, recovery, and reactivity
Authors: Matuz András , van der Linden Dimitri , Kisander Zsolt , Hernádi István , Kázmér Karádi , Csathó Árpád
Published: March 2021

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) has been suggested as a useful tool to assess fatigue-sensitive psychological operations. The present study uses a between and within-subject design with a cognitively demanding task and a documentary viewing condition, to examine the temporal profile of HRV during reactivity, Time-on-Task (ToT), and recovery. In the cognitive task group, participants worked on a bimodal 2-back task with a game-like character (the Gatekeeper task) for about 1.5 hours, followed by a 12-minute break, and a post-break block of performance (about 18 min). In the other group, participants watched documentaries. We hypothesized an increasing vagal-mediated HRV as a function of Time spent on the Gatekeeper task and no HRV change in the documentary viewing group. We also analyzed the trial-based post-response cardiac activity as a physiological associate of task-related motivation. Relative to the documentary-viewing, ToT was associated with an elevated level of subjective fatigue, decreased heart rate, and increased HRV, particularly in the vagal-mediated components. Based on fatigued participants’ post-error cardiac slowing, and post-error reaction time analyses, we found no evidence for motivation deficits. The present findings suggest that the parasympathetic branch of the autonomous nervous system functioning as a relaxation system tends to be activated under increasing mental fatigue. In addition, the study shows that many HRV indices also seem to change when individuals are engaged in a prolonged, less fatiguing activity (e.g. documentary viewing). This finding emphasizes the relevance of comparisons/control conditions in ToT experiments.
Potential linkage between Toxoplasma gondii infection and physical education scores of college students
Authors: Cai Jun , Sheng Zhijin , Jin Yu , Du Yinan , Yan Xinlei , Yao Yong
Published: March 2021

Objective

Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide protozoan parasite that could infect virtually all warm-blooded animals, including humans. Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in college students at Anhui province, China and to assess risk factors for T. gondii infection in college students. Moreover, growing studies demonstrated the association between T. gondii infection and host behavioral changes. We also studied the linkage between T. gondii and physical education (PE) scores of college students.

Methods

A total of 2704 serum samples of medical school students attending physical education lessons were collected from September 2017 to September 2019 and evaluated for T. gondii IgG antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Questionnaires and statistical analysis were used to determine the risk factors for T. gondii infection. We also analysed PE scores of T. gondii -infected students and T. gondii-uninfected students.

Results

The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii was 11.5%. The main risk factors related to T. gondii infection in college students were cat in the household and gardening or agriculture activity. Furthermore, in the basketball group and the soccer group, scores of T. gondii seropositive students were significantly higher than those of seronegative students, while in other sports there was no difference between scores of T. gondii-infected students and T. gondii uninfected students.

Conclusion

This is the first report of T. gondii seroprevalence in college students in Anhui province, China.
Who is mentally healthy? Mental health profiles of Japanese social networking service users with a focus on LINE, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
Authors: Sakurai Ryota , Nemoto Yuta , Mastunaga Hiroko , Fujiwara Yoshinori
Published: March 2021

Background

Both negative and positive associations between social networking service (SNS) usage and mental health have been suggested by previous studies; however, their differences by type of SNS and age remain unclear. We addressed this issue based on the frequency of traditional communication such as face-to-face and non-face-to-face communication (e.g., phone, email, and letters).

Methods

In total, 8,576 individuals participated, including 2,543 aged 18–39, 3,048 aged 40–64, and 2,985 aged over 65 years. They were asked to indicate their frequency of SNS usage, both for posting and checking, of LINE (a popular message application in Japan), Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, with frequent usage defined as posting or checking more than a few times a week. To determine mental health status, WHO-5 (i.e., well-being), K6 (i.e., distress symptoms), and feelings of loneliness were assessed. Multiple and logistic regression analyses were adjusted for the frequency of traditional communication. To avoid type 1 error, a Bonferroni correction of p ≤ 0.002 was applied in the regression models (p = 0.05/18, a number of regression models).

Results

The most frequently used SNS across the three age groups was LINE; frequent usage (both posting and checking) among older adults was independently associated with better well-being. Frequent posting on Facebook was associated with better well-being in middle-aged adults. Young adults who frequently checked on Instagram showed a tendency toward better well-being and lower distress symptoms. On the contrary, frequent usage of Twitter was associated with distress symptoms or feelings of loneliness across all three age groups.

Conclusions

We found generational and SNS-type-dependent negative and positive associations between SNS use and mental health, indicating the possible influences of SNS use and the importance of non-SNS communication.