bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Mamdani Fuzzy Rules and Convolutional Neural Networks for Analysis and Identification of Animal Images
Authors: Mohammed Hind R. , Hussain Zahir M.
Published: March 2021

Accurate, fast, and automatic detection and classification of animal images is challenging, but it is much needed for many real-life applications. This paper presents a hybrid model of Mamdani Type-2 fuzzy rules and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) applied to identify and distinguish various animals using different datasets consisting of about 27,307 images. The proposed system utilizes fuzzy rules to detect the image and then apply the CNN model for the object’s predicate category. The CNN model was trained and tested based on more than 21,846 pictures of animals. The experiments’ results of the proposed method offered high speed and efficiency, which could be a prominent aspect in designing image-processing systems based on Type 2 fuzzy rules characterization for identifying fixed and moving images. The proposed fuzzy method obtained an accuracy rate for identifying and recognizing moving objects of 98% and a mean square error of 0.1183464 less than other studies. It also achieved a very high rate of correctly predicting malicious objects equal to recall = 0.98121 and a precision rate of 1. The test’s accuracy was evaluated using the F1 Score, which obtained a high percentage of 0.99052.
Biominerals: Formation, Function, Properties
Authors: Cölfen Helmut , Griesshaber Erika , Schmahl Wolfgang W.
Published: March 2021

Triggered by geochemical cycles, large-scale terrestrial processes and evolution, a tremendous biodiversity evolved over the geological record and produced proto- and metazoa with biomineralized hard tissue, characterized by unique structural designs and exquisite performance [...]
Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization, and Biological Activities of New Binuclear Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) Diimine Complexes
Authors: Gaber Ahmed , Belal Arafa A. M. , El-Deen Ibrahim M. , Hassan Nader , Zakaria Rozan , Alsanie Walaa F. , M. Naglah Ahmed , Refat Moamen S.
Published: March 2021

Metal-ligand complexes have attracted major interest due to their potential medical applications as anticancer agents. The work described in the current article aimed to synthesize, spectroscopic, thermal, and biological studies of some metal-diimine complexes. A diimine ligand, namely 2-{[2-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-hydroxyvinyl]-hydrazonomethyl}phenol (diim) was prepared via the reaction of p-chlorophenacyl bromide with hydrazine hydrate in ethanol, then condensation was completed with 2-hydroxybenzaldehyde in acetic acid. The Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) complexes were prepared with a metal:ligand stoichiometric ratio of (2:1). 1H-NMR, UV-Vis, FTIR spectroscopic data, molar conductivity measurements, and microanalytical data (carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and halogen) were used for characterization of the formed ligand and its metal complexes. It was found that the diimine ligand act as tetradentate fashion. The non-electrolytic character for all the complexes was proved by molar conductivity. The first metal atom of the synthesized binuclear diimine complexes coordinates with the nitrogen of hydrazine group and oxygen of OH group. While, the second metal atom coordinates with the other nitrogen atom of the hydrazine group and oxygen of phenolic group. All the synthesized metal complexes have a six-coordinated except for Zn(II) has four-coordinated. Thermogravimetric analysis and its differential analysis were done to discuss the thermal degradation of the free ligand and its metal complexes. Molecular docking calculation showed that the diimine ligand is a good inhibitor for breast cancer 3hb5 and 4o1v kidney cancer proteins. Additionally, these compounds were evaluated as antibacterial and antifungal agents.
An Improved UNet++ Model for Congestive Heart Failure Diagnosis Using Short-Term RR Intervals
Authors: Lei Meng , Li Jia , Li Ming , Zou Liang , Yu Han
Published: March 2021

Congestive heart failure (CHF), a progressive and complex syndrome caused by ventricular dysfunction, is difficult to detect at an early stage. Heart rate variability (HRV) was proposed as a prognostic indicator for CHF. Inspired by the success of 2-D UNet++ in medical image segmentation, in this paper, we introduce an end-to-end encoder-decoder model to detect CHF using HRV signals. The developed model enhances the UNet++ model with Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE) residual blocks to extract deep features hierarchically and distinguish CHF patients from normal subjects. Two open-source databases are utilized for evaluating the proposed method, and three segment lengths of intervals between successive R-peaks are employed in comparison with state-of-the-art methods. The proposed method achieves an accuracy of 85.64%, 86.65% and 88.79% when 500, 1000 and 2000 RR intervals are utilized, respectively. It demonstrates that HRV evaluation based on deep learning can be an important tool for early detection of CHF, and may assist clinicians in achieving timely and accurate diagnoses.
Discovery of Screening Biomarkers for Major Depressive Disorder in Remission by Proteomic Approach
Authors: Choi Hyebin , Mun Sora , Joo Eun-Jeong , Lee Kyu Young , Kang Hee-Gyoo , Lee Jiyeong
Published: March 2021

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common disorder involving depressive mood and decreased motivation. Due to its high heterogeneity, novel biomarkers are required to diagnose MDD. In this study, a proteomic method was used to identify a new MDD biomarker. Using sequential window acquisition of all theoretical mass spectra acquisitions and multiple reaction monitoring analysis via mass spectrometry, relative and absolute quantification of proteins in the sera was performed. The results of the relative quantitation by sequential window acquisition for all theoretical mass spectra data showed that seven proteins were significantly differently expressed between MDD patients and other patients with remission status. However, absolute quantification by multiple reaction monitoring analysis identified prothrombin as the only significantly upregulated protein in the depressive state compared to remission (p < 0.05) and was, thus, subsequently selected as an MDD biomarker. The area under the curve for prothrombin was 0.66. Additionally, increased prothrombin/thrombin induced hyper-activation of platelets via activating protease-activated receptors, a feature associated with MDD; specifically, activated platelets secrete various molecules related to MDD, including brain-derived neurotropic factors and serotonin. Therefore, prothrombin is a potential screening, prognostic, and diagnostic marker for MDD.
Sustainability: A Regional Australian Experience of Educating Secondary Geography Teachers
Authors: Danaher Michael , Wu Jiaping , Hewson Michael
Published: March 2021

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number four seeks an equitable and widespread education that enables an outcome of sustainable development by 2030. Intersecting the studies of society and earth processes, a geographical education is well placed to make cohesive sense of all the individual knowledge silos that contribute to achieving sustainability. Geography education is compulsory for the first three years of the secondary education curriculum in Australia; however, research has shown that many geography teachers are underprepared and report limitations in their teaching of sustainability. This article engages with this research problem to provide a critical reflection, using experiential knowledge as an analytical lens, on how tertiary level geography training at one Australian regional university can equip undergraduate teacher education students with the values, knowledge, and skills needed to develop their future students’ understanding and appreciation of the principles of sustainability. The authors unpacked a geography minor for a Bachelor of Secondary Education degree at Central Queensland University and, deploying content analysis, explain how three units in that minor can develop these students’ values, knowledge, and skills through fostering initiatives and activities. The analysis was framed by elements of pedagogy that offer learners a context for developing active, global citizenship and participation to understand the interdependencies of ecological, societal, and economic systems including a multisided view of sustainability and sustainable development. The study concluded that the three geography units engage student teachers in sustainable thinking in a variety of ways, which can have a wider application in the geography curricula in other teacher education courses. More importantly, however, the study found that there is a critical need for collaboration between university teachers of sustainability content and university teachers of school-based pedagogy in order to maximise the efficacy of sustainability education in schools.
Blockchain System in the Higher Education
Authors: Raimundo Ricardo , Rosário Albérico
Published: March 2021

Blockchain has emerged as an important concept at the interface of ICT and higher education. It is a system in which a record of transactions is maintained across several computers that are linked in a peer-to-peer network. Hence, it allows the creation of a decentralized environment, where data are not under the control of any third-party organization. This study presents a Systematic Bibliometric Literature Review (LRSB in further text) of research on blockchain applications in the higher education field. The review integrated 37 articles presenting up-to-date knowledge on current implications pertaining to the use of blockchain technology for improving higher education processes. The LRSB findings indicate that blockchain is being used to build up new interventions to improve the prevailing ways of sharing, delivering and securing knowledge data and personal student records. The application of blockchain technology is carrying on a conceptual progress in the higher education sector where it has added substantial value by ameliorated efficiency, effectiveness, privacy control, technological improvement and security of data management mechanisms. Challenges posed by current literature and further research directions are suggested.
Optimized Strategic Planning of Future Norwegian Low-Voltage Networks with a Genetic Algorithm Applying Empirical Electric Vehicle Charging Data
Authors: Wruk Julian , Cibis Kevin , Resch Matthias , Sæle Hanne , Zdrallek Markus
Published: March 2021

This article outlines methods to facilitate the assessment of the impact of electric vehicle charging on distribution networks at planning stage and applies them to a case study. As network planning is becoming a more complex task, an approach to automated network planning that yields the optimal reinforcement strategy is outlined. Different reinforcement measures are weighted against each other in terms of technical feasibility and costs by applying a genetic algorithm. Traditional reinforcements as well as novel solutions including voltage regulation are considered. To account for electric vehicle charging, a method to determine the uptake in equivalent load is presented. For this, measured data of households and statistical data of electric vehicles are combined in a stochastic analysis to determine the simultaneity factors of household load including electric vehicle charging. The developed methods are applied to an exemplary case study with Norwegian low-voltage networks. Different penetration rates of electric vehicles on a development path until 2040 are considered.
Effects of Augmented Reality Object and Texture Presentation on Walking Behavior
Authors: Isoyama Naoya , Sakuragi Yamato , Terada Tsutomu , Tsukamoto Masahiko
Published: March 2021

Wearable devices that display visual augmented reality (AR) are now on the market, and we are becoming able to see AR displays on a daily basis. By being able to use AR displays in everyday environments, we can benefit from the ability to display AR objects in places where it has been difficult to place signs, to change the content of the display according to the user or time of day, and to display video. However, there has not been sufficient research on AR displays’ effect on users in everyday environments. In this study, we investigate how users are affected by AR displays. In this paper, we report our research results on the AR displays’ effect on the user’s walking behavior. We conducted two types of experiments—one on the effects of displaying AR objects on the user’s walking path, and the other on the effects of changing the floor texture by AR on the user’s walking behavior. As a result of the experiments, we found that the AR objects/textures affected the user’s walking behavior.
T-Count Optimized Quantum Circuit Designs for Single-Precision Floating-Point Division
Authors: Gayathri S. S. , Kumar R. , Dhanalakshmi Samiappan , Dooly Gerard , Duraibabu Dinesh Babu
Published: March 2021

The implementation of quantum computing processors for scientific applications includes quantum floating points circuits for arithmetic operations. This work adopts the standard division algorithms for floating-point numbers with restoring, non-restoring, and Goldschmidt division algorithms for single-precision inputs. The design proposals are carried out while using the quantum Clifford+T gates set, and resource estimates in terms of numbers of qubits, T-count, and T-depth are provided for the proposed circuits. By improving the leading zero detector (LZD) unit structure, the proposed division circuits show a significant reduction in the T-count when compared to the existing works on floating-point division.
The Influences of Feature Sets on the Detection of Advanced Persistent Threats
Authors: Hofer-Schmitz Katharina , Kleb Ulrike , Stojanović Branka
Published: March 2021

This paper investigates the influences of different statistical network traffic feature sets on detecting advanced persistent threats. The selection of suitable features for detecting targeted cyber attacks is crucial to achieving high performance and to address limited computational and storage costs. The evaluation was performed on a semi-synthetic dataset, which combined the CICIDS2017 dataset and the Contagio malware dataset. The CICIDS2017 dataset is a benchmark dataset in the intrusion detection field and the Contagio malware dataset contains real advanced persistent threat (APT) attack traces. Several different combinations of datasets were used to increase variety in background data and contribute to the quality of results. For the feature extraction, the CICflowmeter tool was used. For the selection of suitable features, a correlation analysis including an in-depth feature investigation by boxplots is provided. Based on that, several suitable features were allocated into different feature sets. The influences of these feature sets on the detection capabilities were investigated in detail with the local outlier factor method. The focus was especially on attacks detected with different feature sets and the influences of the background on the detection capabilities with respect to the local outlier factor method. Based on the results, we could determine a superior feature set, which detected most of the malicious flows.
Objective Assessment of Walking Impairments in Myotonic Dystrophy by Means of a Wearable Technology and a Novel Severity Index
Authors: Saggio Giovanni , Manoni Alessandro , Errico Vito , Frezza Erica , Mazzetta Ivan , Rota Rosario , Massa Roberto , Irrera Fernanda
Published: March 2021

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a genetic inherited autosomal dominant disease characterized by multisystem involvement, including muscle, heart, brain, eye, and endocrine system. Although several methods are available to evaluate muscle strength, endurance, and dexterity, there are no validated outcome measures aimed at objectively evaluating qualitative and quantitative gait alterations. Advantageously, wearable sensing technology has been successfully adopted in objectifying the assessment of motor disabilities in different medical occurrences, so that here we consider the adoption of such technology specifically for DM1. In particular, we measured motor tasks through inertial measurement units on a cohort of 13 DM1 patients and 11 healthy control counterparts. The motor tasks consisted of 16 meters of walking both at a comfortable speed and fast pace. Measured data consisted of plantar-flexion and dorsi-flexion angles assumed by both ankles, so to objectively evidence the footdrop behavior of the DM1 disease, and to define a novel severity index, termed SI-Norm2, to rate the grade of walking impairments. According to the obtained results, our approach could be useful for a more precise stratification of DM1 patients, providing a new tool for a personalized rehabilitation approach.
Realistic Aspects of Simulation Models for Fake News Epidemics over Social Networks
Authors: Lotito Quintino Francesco , Zanella Davide , Casari Paolo
Published: March 2021

The pervasiveness of online social networks has reshaped the way people access information. Online social networks make it common for users to inform themselves online and share news among their peers, but also favor the spreading of both reliable and fake news alike. Because fake news may have a profound impact on the society at large, realistically simulating their spreading process helps evaluate the most effective countermeasures to adopt. It is customary to model the spreading of fake news via the same epidemic models used for common diseases; however, these models often miss concepts and dynamics that are peculiar to fake news spreading. In this paper, we fill this gap by enriching typical epidemic models for fake news spreading with network topologies and dynamics that are typical of realistic social networks. Specifically, we introduce agents with the role of influencers and bots in the model and consider the effects of dynamical network access patterns, time-varying engagement, and different degrees of trust in the sources of circulating information. These factors concur with making the simulations more realistic. Among other results, we show that influencers that share fake news help the spreading process reach nodes that would otherwise remain unaffected. Moreover, we emphasize that bots dramatically speed up the spreading process and that time-varying engagement and network access change the effectiveness of fake news spreading.
Impact of Type of Sugar Beet Pectin–Sodium Caseinate Interaction on Emulsion Properties at pH 4.5 and pH 7
Authors: Juyang Zhang , Wolf Bettina
Published: March 2021

Equal parts of sugar beet pectin and sodium caseinate were interacted through electrostatic attraction, enzymatic crosslinking, and the Maillard reaction to prepare three oil-in-water emulsifier systems. Oil-in-water emulsions (10%) were processed via high shear overhead mixing at the natural pH of the emulsifier systems, followed by pH adjustment to pH 4.5 and pH 7. The emulsions were stable against coalescence, except for a slight increase in the mean droplet size for the enzymatic cross-liked emulsion at pH 4.5 over a 14-day storage period. This emulsion also showed the lowest absolute zeta (ζ)-potential value of near 30 mV. The Maillard interaction emulsifier system resulted in larger droplet sizes compared to the other two emulsifier systems. Small deformation oscillatory shear rheology assessment of the emulsion cream phases revealed an impact of the emulsifier system design at pH 4.5.
Technological Applications of Natural Colorants in Food Systems: A Review
Authors: Luzardo-Ocampo Ivan , Ramírez-Jiménez Aurea K. , Yañez Jimena , Mojica Luis , Luna-Vital Diego A.
Published: March 2021

Natural colorants have emerged as an alternative to their synthetic counterparts due to an existing health concern of these later. Moreover, natural-food colorants are a renewable option providing health benefits and interesting technological and sensory attributes to the food systems containing them. Several sources of natural colorants have been explored aiming to deliver the required wide color range demanded by consumers. This review aimed to compare and discuss the technological applications of the main natural-food colorants into food system in the last six years, giving additional information about their extraction process. Although natural colorants are promising choices to replace synthetic ones, optimization of processing conditions, research on new sources, and new formulations to ensure stability are required to equate their properties to their synthetic counterparts.
Antimicrobial Effect of Zn2+ Ions Governs the Microbial Quality of Donor Human Milk
Authors: Hutchings Carmel , Prokocimer Yair Zafnat , Reifen Ram , Shemesh Moshe
Published: March 2021

Donor human milk (HM) obtained at HM banks is exceptionally crucial for the feeding and treatment of preterm infants. Bacterial contaminations of HM in various stages of its handling are very common and can lead to disqualification of donations or severe infections in worse cases. Hence, HM donations are subject to strict bacteriological evaluations pre- and post-pasteurization. The main contaminating species vary between countries, banks and donors and even exhibit inter-individual variation. We initiated an assessment of the bacteriological composition of HM donated by women hospitalized in a neonatal intensive care unit in Israel. The most common bacterium identified was Staphylococcus epidermidis, found in all but one of the HM samples; the presence of several species of coagulase-negative Staphylococci was also noted. Next, we sought to develop a platform towards antibacterial treatment using Zn2+ ions that have recently been found to be potent against contaminants isolated from bovine milk. Zn2+ efficiently inhibited the growth of viable aerobic population and S. epidermidis in HM. Growth was also inhibited in other Gram-positive bacteria such as Bacillus cereus, a well-known food-borne pathogen. S. epidermidis and B. cereus cells grown in the presence of zinc were taken for microscopic evaluation, aiming to demonstrate zinc’s antimicrobial mode of action morphologically. Images obtained using scanning electron microscopy indicated leakage of cellular content and cell lysis in S. epidermidis. Besides, B. cereus cells showed abnormalities in their cell surface and complete loss of flagella upon treatment with zinc. Along with the above findings, it should be noted that this was a pilot study that tested how high doses of Zn2+ affect breast milk as a product. Further research is likely needed on the safety of consumption of Zn2+-treated HM in infants and older children.
Antioxidant Effect and Sensory Evaluation of Yogurt Supplemented with Hydroponic Ginseng Root Extract
Authors: Lee Hyun Sook , Song Myung Wook , Kim Kee-Tae , Hong Wan-Soo , Paik Hyun-Dong
Published: March 2021

Hydroponic ginseng (HG) is cultivated using only nutrients and water under constant environmental conditions and is more beneficial than soil-cultured ginseng (SG). This study aimed to determine the physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and sensory properties of HG-supplemented yogurt to develop high-value yogurt. HG (0.1%, 0.5%, and 1.0%) was added to yogurt formulations and fermented with a 0.1% starter. Antioxidant activities were determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), 2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt, reducing power, and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays. Semi-trained panelists performed a quantitative descriptive analysis for sensory evaluation. The number of starter cells increased more rapidly in ginseng extract-fortified yogurt than in the control group, shortening fermentation time. Regarding antioxidant assays, all HG extract-fortified yogurts showed higher antioxidant activity than the control group. In particular, the HG (0.5%) group showed better results than the SG group in the DPPH and reducing power assays, although the difference was not significant. The sensory scores of color, flavor, texture, taste, and overall acceptance of 0.5% HG-supplemented yogurt did not differ significantly from those of non-supplemented yogurt (control). This suggests that HG can be used in high-value dairy products as a supplement with bioactive properties for health in the food industry.
Reclaiming Emotions: Re-Unlearning and Re-Learning Discourses of Healing in a Tribally Placed Doctoral Cohort
Authors: Minthorn Robin Zape-tah-hol-ah , Montgomery Michelle , Bill Denise
Published: March 2021

This article is a “talk story” among three Indigenous women who are connected in various ways but most recently through the heartwork of a tribal–university partnership for a tribally based doctoral cohort program. The first tribally based cohort includes representation of tribal nations from Washington State, Utah and New Mexico and all women. The contributors of this talk story include voices of a Muckleshoot partner who is an Indigenous education advocate and two Indigenous faculty members. We share our talk story in identifying the powerful connection of reclaiming emotions through the ability of centering Indigenous narratives, honoring culture and community, and the powerful role of place and space in honoring tribal sovereignty through its existence.
The Perimenopausal Fatigue Self-Management Scale Is Suitable for Evaluating Perimenopausal Taiwanese Women’s Vulnerability to Fatigue Syndrome
Authors: Chiu Hsiao-Hui , Tsao Lee-Ing , Liu Chieh-Yu , Lu Yu-Ying , Shih Whei-Mei , Wang Peng-Hui
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of utilizing the established perimenopausal fatigue self-management scale (P-MFSMS) to evaluate perimenopausal Taiwanese women’s vulnerability to fatigue syndrome. A cross-sectional study design was adopted to survey 220 perimenopausal Taiwanese women with a mean age of 51.8 ± 4.64 years and a mean body mass index of 23.07 ± 3.04 kg/m2, 75.9% of whom were married, 52.3% had a college education or above, 80.4% had salaries, 81.3% had small families, and 96.4% were not using hormone therapy. The P-MFSMS consists of 25 questions based on six categories: (1) strive to maintain work energy and efficiency; (2) seek self-help from medical resources (doctor shopping); (3) strive to maintain the normal operation of the family (seeking help and support from family or significant other); (4) make time for activities or exercise in busy life; (5) slow down or adjust lifestyle; (6) frustration. For all of these six categories, the minimum loading of each question on the factor was calculated to be over 0.50, with a Cronbach’s α of 0.78 and a corrected total-item correlation of >0.50. The goodness of fit of the model was determined to be acceptable, with a chi-square/df value of <3.0 (χ2 = 503.45 and df = 260), a root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) value of 0.065 (<0.08), as well as a Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) value of 0.892. The Tucker–Lewis index (TLI = 0.91), Comparative Fit index (CFI = 0.92), and Incremental Fit index (IFI = 0.92) were all >0.90. There was no statistically significant difference in the difficulty between perimenopausal and postmenopausal women utilizing differential item function (DIF) analysis. Taken together, the 25-question P-MFSMS may be a potentially valid and reliable instrument for suitably evaluating perimenopausal Taiwanese women’s vulnerability to fatigue syndrome. Future studies will be conducted to test the effectiveness of the P-MFSMS for evaluating perimenopausal Taiwanese women’s vulnerability to fatigue syndrome in clinical practice.
Oral Health Impact Profile in Orthodontic Patients with Ectopic Canine: A Prospective Clinical Intervention of Four Treatment Modalities
Authors: Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Alfawzan Ahmed Ali
Published: March 2021

This study evaluated the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Saudi subjects with ectopic canine, severe crowding, and class I normal occlusion. Moreover, we assessed the differences among orthodontic treatment modalities (OTM) in the ectopic canine group. Study design: Retrospective and prospective evaluation. A total of 96 subjects were assessed for OHRQoL using the Oral Health Impact Profile, English version (OHIP-16). Initial comparison of the baseline data of ectopic canine subjects was made with severe crowding (>8 mm) and class I normal occlusion with the matched number and age of the subjects in later groups. Moreover, a comparison of OHIP-16 scores among four OTM in the ectopic canine group, baseline, 1 day, and 28 days after treatment were performed. OHIP-16 scores of ectopic canine, severe crowding, and class I normal occlusion group were 33.06, 33.09, and 26.43, respectively. Subjects with ectopic canine and severe crowding reported a significantly greater negative impact in terms of embarrassment, avoiding smiling, and lack of self-confidence. OHRQoL had no significant changes among the four OTM groups (p > 0.05). Untreated malocclusion had a significant negative impact on OHRQoL. The negative impact was seen in several domains 1 day after treatment, and gradual improvement was noted 28 days after treatment.
Self-Rated Health and Subjective Economic Status in Life Satisfaction among Older Chinese Immigrants: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kim Bum Jung , Chen Lin , Xu Ling , Lee Yura
Published: March 2021

This study examines the influence of self-rated health and subjective economic status on the life satisfaction of older Chinese immigrants in the United States. Data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey of 205 older Chinese immigrants aged 66 to 90 years living in Los Angeles and Honolulu. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analysis was employed to explore the independent effects of self-rated health and subjective economic status. The results demonstrated that self-rated health and subjective economic status were positively associated with life satisfaction. This cross-sectional study provides empirical evidence that self-rated health and subjective economic status are directly associated with subjective life satisfaction among older Chinese immigrants.
Stone Architectural Decoration in Burji Era: The Northern Mausoleum in the Khanqah of Al-Nasir Faraj Ibn Barquq (Cairo). Contribution to the Knowledge and Conservation Assessment
Authors: Santo Alba Patrizia , Di Benedetto Francesco , Garzonio Carlo Alberto , Pecchioni Elena , Salvatici Teresa , Coppola Michele
Published: March 2021

The conservation of monuments in Cairo represents a complex matter, influenced by the cultural context, the intrinsic features of a vast and heterogeneous architectural heritage, and the environmental conditions. Monument vulnerability levels strongly need to be systematized to delineate adequate programs of control, management, and intervention. Despite their leading role in the Egyptian architectural heritage, many monuments experience a critical state of conservation. Here, we report the results of a multi-scale investigation of the northern mausoleum in the complex of the Khanqah of Al-Nasir Faraj Ibn Barquq, located in the Islamic cemetery of Al-Qarafa Al-Kubra (Cairo, Egypt). Our research aims to increase the knowledge on the decorative stones used in the mausoleum and their decay processes. The investigation has been focused on the two areas of the building covered by a colored stone-slabs pattern: the floor and the qibla wall. A detailed architectural survey, carried out through photogrammetric techniques, provided a three-dimensional morphological knowledge of the mausoleum, upgrading the available surveys made about 50 years ago. The distribution of the materials has been verified by visual analysis, integrated by the first detailed mineralogical and petrographic characterization made on this mausoleum. The digital survey of the stone surfaces and the mineralogical, chemical, and petrographic analyses allowed a systematic mapping of the decay phenomena and some insights on the morphological alteration of single elements. The obtained results indicate a capillary rise of groundwaters and airborne pollution as the main degradation processes.
From 2D to VR Film: A Research on the Load of Different Cutting Rates Based on EEG Data Processing
Authors: Tian Feng , Zhang Yan , Li Yingjie
Published: March 2021

Focusing on virtual reality (VR) and film cutting, this study compared and evaluated the effect of visual mode (2D, VR) and cutting rate (fast, medium, slow) on a load, to make an attempt for VR research to enter the cognitive field. This study uses a 2 × 3 experimental research design. Forty participants were divided into one of two groups randomly and watched films with three cutting rates. The subjective and objective data were collected during the experiment. The objective results confirm that VR films bring more powerful alpha, beta, theta wave activities, and bring a greater load. The subjective results confirm that the fast cutting rate brings a greater load. These results provide a theoretical support for further exploring the evaluation methods and standards of VR films and improving the viewing experience in the future.
Roles of Microglial Ion Channel in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Cojocaru Alexandru , Burada Emilia , Bălșeanu Adrian-Tudor , Deftu Alexandru-Florian , Cătălin Bogdan , Popa-Wagner Aurel , Osiac Eugen
Published: March 2021

As the average age and life expectancy increases, the incidence of both acute and chronic central nervous system (CNS) pathologies will increase. Understanding mechanisms underlying neuroinflammation as the common feature of any neurodegenerative pathology, we can exploit the pharmacology of cell specific ion channels to improve the outcome of many CNS diseases. As the main cellular player of neuroinflammation, microglia play a central role in this process. Although microglia are considered non-excitable cells, they express a variety of ion channels under both physiological and pathological conditions that seem to be involved in a plethora of cellular processes. Here, we discuss the impact of modulating microglia voltage-gated, potential transient receptor, chloride and proton channels on microglial proliferation, migration, and phagocytosis in neurodegenerative diseases.
Epidemiology of Secondary Warm Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tranekær Stinne , Hansen Dennis Lund , Frederiksen Henrik
Published: March 2021

Background: Warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (wAIHA) is a haemolytic disorder, most commonly seen among adults and is classified as either primary or secondary to an underlying disease. We describe the age and sex distribution and the proportion of secondary wAIHA. Method: We retrieved 2635 published articles, screened abstracts and titles, and identified 27 articles eligible for full-text review. From these studies, we extracted data regarding number of patients, sex distribution, age at diagnosis, number of patients with secondary wAIHA, and whether the patients were diagnosed through local or referral centres. All data were weighted according to the number of included patients in each study. Results: 27 studies including a total of 4311 patients with wAIHA, of which 66% were females, were included. The median age at diagnosis was 68.7 years, however, wAIHA affected all ages. The mean proportion of secondary wAIHA was 49%, most frequently secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus. The proportions of secondary wAIHA reported from primary vs. referral centres were 35% vs. 59%, respectively. Conclusion: This review consolidates previously reported gender distribution. The higher proportion of secondary wAIHA in referral centres suggests that the most severely affected patients are disproportionally more frequent in such facilities.
Temporary Proximal Tibial Epiphysiodesis for Correction of Leg Length Discrepancy in Children—Should Proximal Fibular Epiphysiodesis Be Performed Concomitantly?
Authors: Frommer Adrien , Niemann Maike , Gosheger Georg , Eveslage Maria , Toporowski Gregor , Laufer Andrea , Ackmann Thomas , Roedl Robert , Vogt Bjoern
Published: March 2021

The need for concomitant proximal fibular epiphysiodesis (PFE) when correcting leg length discrepancy (LLD) with temporary proximal tibial epiphysiodesis (PTE) in children is controversially discussed. This single center, retrospective cohort study analyzes proximal fibular growth in patients treated by PTE with and without concomitant PFE. Radiographic measurements were conducted before implantation and at implant removal. The position of the fibular head in relation to the tibia was assessed with recently established radiographic reference values. All patients (n = 58, 19 females) received PTE to treat LLD at a mean age of 12.2 years (range 7 to 15). In 27/58 (47%) concomitant PFE was performed. Mean follow-up was 36.2 months (range 14.2 to 78.0). The position of the proximal fibula at implant removal was within physiological range in 21/26 patients (81%) with PFE and in 21/30 patients (70%) without PFE. Proximal fibular overgrowth newly developed in 2/26 patients (8%) treated with PFE and in 5/30 patients (17%) treated without PFE (p = 0.431). Peroneal nerve injury or discomfort due to proximal fibular overlength was not reported. The position of the proximal fibula should be critically assessed preoperatively under consideration of reference values before PTE. In consequence of this study, the authors do not routinely perform PFE concomitantly with PTE for correction of moderate LLD in children if the proximal fibula is localized within physiological radiographic margins determined by the established reference values.
Qualitative Evidence from Studies of Interventions Aimed at Return to Work and Staying at Work for Persons with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
Authors: Liedberg Gunilla M. , Björk Mathilda , Dragioti Elena , Turesson Christina
Published: March 2021

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a significant burden for employees, employers, and society. However, more knowledge is needed about which interventions reduce sick leave. Interventions were defined as the act or an instance of intervening, provided by different stakeholders. This review synthesizes the experiences of patients, employers, and health professionals concerning the interventions that influence returning to work and staying at work for persons with chronic musculoskeletal pain. A literature search was performed using several combinations of key terms. Overall, 18 qualitative studies published between 2002 and 2018 were included. Qualitative analysis assessed how much confidence could be placed in each review finding. Moderate evidence was found for factors improving the return to work process such as collaboration between stakeholders, including the persons with chronic musculoskeletal pain and support from all involved actors in the process. Moderate evidence was found for self-management strategies and workplace adjustments needed to facilitate more persons to returning to work and staying at work despite pain. This review provides stakeholders, employers, and health professionals’ information that could be used to develop and implement interventions to increase the possibilities for persons with chronic musculoskeletal pain returning to work or staying at work.
T1a Glottic Cancer: Advances in Vocal Outcome Assessment after Transoral CO2-Laser Microsurgery Using the VEM
Authors: Song Wen , Caffier Felix , Nawka Tadeus , Ermakova Tatiana , Martin Alexios , Mürbe Dirk , Caffier Philipp P.
Published: March 2021

Patients with unilateral vocal fold cancer (T1a) have a favorable prognosis. In addition to the oncological results of CO2 transoral laser microsurgery (TOLMS), voice function is among the outcome measures. Previous early glottic cancer studies have reported voice function in patients grouped into combined T stages (Tis, T1, T2) and merged cordectomy types (lesser- vs. larger-extent cordectomies). Some authors have questioned the value of objective vocal parameters. Therefore, the purpose of this exploratory prospective study was to investigate TOLMS-associated oncological and vocal outcomes in 60 T1a patients, applying the ELS protocols for cordectomy classification and voice assessment. Pre- and postoperative voice function analysis included: Vocal Extent Measure (VEM), Dysphonia Severity Index (DSI), auditory-perceptual assessment (GRB), and 9-item Voice Handicap Index (VHI-9i). Altogether, 51 subjects (43 male, eight female, mean age 65 years) completed the study. The 5-year recurrence-free, overall, and disease-specific survival rates (Kaplan–Meier method) were 71.4%, 94.4%, and 100.0%. Voice function was preserved; the objective parameter VEM (64 ± 33 vs. 83 ± 31; mean ± SD) and subjective vocal measures (G: 1.9 ± 0.7 vs. 1.3 ± 0.7; VHI-9i: 18 ± 8 vs. 9 ± 9) even improved significantly (p < 0.001). The VEM best reflected self-perceived voice impairment. It represents a sensitive measure of voice function for quantification of vocal performance.
Transformational vs. Transactional Deployment of Intelligence
Authors: Sternberg Robert J.
Published: March 2021

The late James Flynn, to whom this Special Issue is dedicated, suggested that what will matter most to the future of the world is not levels of intelligence but rather how intelligence is deployed. In this article, I argue that we can distinguish between transactional and transformational deployments of intelligence. Loosely following Flynn, I suggest that we need to pay much more attention to the latter rather than the former.
Advancing the Understanding of the Factor Structure of Executive Functioning
Authors: Himi Samsad Afrin , Bühner Markus , Hilbert Sven
Published: March 2021

There has been considerable debate and interest regarding the factor structure of executive functioning (EF). Therefore, the aim of the current study was to delve into this issue differently, by investigating EF and other cognitive constructs, such as working memory capacity (WMC), relational integration, and divided attention, which may contribute to EF. Here, we examined whether it is possible to provide evidence for a definite model of EF containing the components of updating, shifting, and inhibition. For this purpose, 202 young adults completed a battery of EF, three WMC tests, three relational integration tests, and two divided attention tests. A confirmatory factor analysis on all the cognitive abilities produced a five-factor structure, which included one factor predominately containing shifting tasks, the next factor containing two updating tasks, the third one predominately representing WMC, the fourth factor consisting of relational integration and antisaccade tasks, and finally, the last factor consisting of the divided attention and stop signal tasks. Lastly, a subsequent hierarchical model supported a higher-order factor, thereby representing general cognitive ability.
Offshore Oil and Gas Safety: Protection against Explosions
Authors: Brkić Dejan , Stajić Zoran
Published: March 2021

Offshore oil and gas operations carry a high risk of explosions, which can be efficiently prevented in many cases. The two most used approaches for prevention are: (1) the “International Electrotechnical Commission System for Certification to Standards Relating to Equipment for Use in Explosive Atmospheres” (IECEx) and (2) European “Atmosphere Explosible” (ATEX) schemes. The main shortcoming for the IECEx scheme is in the fact that it does not cover nonelectrical equipment, while for the ATEX scheme, it is due to the allowed self-certification for a certain category of equipment in areas with a low probability of explosions, as well as the fact that it explicitly excludes mobile offshore drilling units from its scope. An advantage of the IECEx scheme is that it is prescribed by the US Coast Guard for protection against explosions on foreign mobile offshore drilling units, which intend to work on the US continental shelf but have never operated there before, with an additional requirement that the certificates should be obtained through a US-based Certified Body (ExCB). Therefore, to avoid bureaucratic obstacles and to be allowed to operate with minimized additional costs both in the US and the EU/EEA’s offshore jurisdictions (and very possibly worldwide), all mobile offshore drilling units should be certified preferably as required by the US Coast Guard.
Abundant Small Protein ICARUS Inside the Cell Wall of Stress-Resistant Ascospores of Talaromyces macrosporus Suggests a Novel Mechanism of Constitutive Dormancy
Authors: Dijksterhuis Jan , Wyatt Timon , Hanssen Micha , Golovina Elena , Hoekstra Folkert , Lugones Luis
Published: March 2021

Ascospores of Talaromyces.macrosporus belong to the most stress resistant eukaryotic cells and show a constitutive dormancy, i.e., no germination occurs in the presence of rich growth medium. Only an extreme trigger as very high temperature or pressure is able to evoke synchronized germination. In this study, several changes within the thick cell wall of these cells are observed after a heat treatment: (i.) a change in its structure as shown with EPR and X-ray diffraction; (ii.) a release of an abundant protein into the supernatant, which is proportional to the extent of heat activation; (iii.) a change in the permeability of the cell wall as judged by fluorescence studies in which staining of the interior of the cell wall correlates with germination of individual ascospores. The gene encoding the protein, dubbed ICARUS, was studied in detail and was expressed under growth conditions that showed intense ascomata (fruit body) and ascospore formation. It encodes a small 7–14 kD protein. Blast search exhibits that different Talaromyces species show a similar sequence, indicating that the protein also occurs in other species of the genus. Deletion strains show delayed ascomata formation, release of pigments into the growth medium, higher permeability of the cell wall and a markedly shorter heat activation needed for activation. Further, wild type ascospores are more heat-resistant. All these observations suggest that the protein plays a role in dormancy and is related to the structure and permeability of the ascospore cell wall. However, more research on this topic is needed to study constitutive dormancy in other fungal species that form stress-resistant ascospores.
Genetic Variants Allegedly Linked to Antisocial Behaviour Are Equally Distributed Across Different Populations
Authors: Zampatti Stefania , Ragazzo Michele , Fabrizio Carlo , Termine Andrea , Campoli Giulia , Caputo Valerio , Strafella Claudia , Cascella Raffaella , Caltagirone Carlo , Giardina Emiliano
Published: March 2021

Human behaviour is determined by a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Several studies have demonstrated different associations between human behaviour and numerous genetic variants. In particular, allelic variants in SLC6A4, MAOA, DRD4, and DRD2 showed statistical associations with major depressive disorder, antisocial behaviour, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder; BDNF polymorphic variants were associated with depressive, bipolar, and schizophrenia diseases, and TPH2 variants were found both in people with unipolar depression and in children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Independent studies have failed to confirm polymorphic variants associated with criminal and aggressive behaviour. In the present study, a set of genetic variants involved in serotoninergic, dopaminergic, and neurobiological pathways were selected from those previously associated with criminal behaviour. The distribution of these genetic variants was compared across worldwide populations. While data on single polymorphic variants showed differential distribution across populations, these differences failed to be significant when a comprehensive analysis was conducted on the total number of published variants. The lack of reproducibility of the genetic association data published to date, the weakness of statistical associations, the heterogeneity of the phenotype, and the massive influence of the environment on human behaviour do not allow us to consider these genetic variants as undoubtedly associated with antisocial behaviour. Moreover, these data confirm the absence of ethnic predisposition to aggressive and criminal behaviour.