bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
iTTCA-RF: a random forest predictor for tumor T cell antigens
Authors: Jiao Shihu , Zou Quan , Guo Huannan , Shi Lei
Published: October 2021

Background

Cancer is one of the most serious diseases threatening human health. Cancer immunotherapy represents the most promising treatment strategy due to its high efficacy and selectivity and lower side effects compared with traditional treatment. The identification of tumor T cell antigens is one of the most important tasks for antitumor vaccines development and molecular function investigation. Although several machine learning predictors have been developed to identify tumor T cell antigen, more accurate tumor T cell antigen identification by existing methodology is still challenging.

Methods

In this study, we used a non-redundant dataset of 592 tumor T cell antigens (positive samples) and 393 tumor T cell antigens (negative samples). Four types feature encoding methods have been studied to build an efficient predictor, including amino acid composition, global protein sequence descriptors and grouped amino acid and peptide composition. To improve the feature representation ability of the hybrid features, we further employed a two-step feature selection technique to search for the optimal feature subset. The final prediction model was constructed using random forest algorithm.

Results

Finally, the top 263 informative features were selected to train the random forest classifier for detecting tumor T cell antigen peptides. iTTCA-RF provides satisfactory performance, with balanced accuracy, specificity and sensitivity values of 83.71%, 78.73% and 88.69% over tenfold cross-validation as well as 73.14%, 62.67% and 83.61% over independent tests, respectively. The online prediction server was freely accessible at http://lab.malab.cn/~acy/iTTCA.

Conclusions

We have proven that the proposed predictor iTTCA-RF is superior to the other latest models, and will hopefully become an effective and useful tool for identifying tumor T cell antigens presented in the context of major histocompatibility complex class I.
MYSM1 inhibits human colorectal cancer tumorigenesis by activating miR-200 family members/CDH1 and blocking PI3K/AKT signaling
Authors: Chen Xu , Wang Wei , Li Yufang , Huo Yi , Zhang Han , Feng Fan , Xi Wenjin , Zhang Tianze , Gao Jinjian , Yang Fan , Chen Siyi , Yang Angang , Wang Tao
Published: October 2021

Background

Histone epigenetic modification disorder is an important predisposing factor for the occurrence and development of many cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). The role of MYSM1, a metalloprotease that deubiquitinates monoubiquitinated histone H2A, in colorectal cancer was identified to evaluate its potential clinical application value.

Methods

MYSM1 expression levels in CRC cell lines and tumor tissues were detected, and their associations with patient survival rate and clinical stage were analyzed using databases and tissue microarrays. Gain- and loss-of-function studies were performed to identify the roles of MYSM1 in CRC cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle progression, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. ChIP, rescue assays and signal pathway verification were conducted for mechanistic study. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to further assess the relationship of MYSM1 with CRC diagnosis and prognosis.

Results

MYSM1 was significantly downregulated and was related to the overall survival (OS) of CRC patients. MYSM1 served as a CRC suppressor by inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation, EMT, tumorigenic potential and metastasis. Mechanistically, MYSM1 directly bound to the promoter region of miR-200/CDH1, impaired the enrichment of repressive H2AK119ub1 modification and epigenetically enhanced miR-200/CDH1 expression. Testing of paired CRC patient samples confirmed the positive regulatory relationship between MYSM1 and miR-200/CDH1. Furthermore, silencing MYSM1 stimulated PI3K/AKT signaling and promoted EMT in CRC cells. More importantly, a positive association existed between MYSM1 expression and a favorable CRC prognosis.

Conclusions

MYSM1 plays essential suppressive roles in CRC tumorigenesis and is a potential target for reducing CRC progression and distant metastasis.
Treatment of osteoarthritis with autologous, micro-fragmented adipose tissue: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mikkelsen Rasmus Kramer , Blønd Lars , Hölmich Lisbeth Rosenkrantz , Mølgaard Cecilie , Troelsen Anders , Hölmich Per , Barfod Kristoffer Weisskirchner
Published: October 2021

Background

Osteoarthritis is a destructive joint disease that leads to degeneration of cartilage and other morphological changes in the joint. No medical treatment currently exists that can reverse these morphological changes. Intra-articular injection with autologous, micro-fragmented adipose tissue has been suggested to relieve symptoms.

Methods/Design

The study is a blinded randomized controlled trial with patients allocated in a 1:1 ratio to 2 parallel groups. Patients suffering from pain and functional impairment due to osteoarthritis Kellgren-Lawrence grades 2–3 in the tibiofemoral joint are eligible for inclusion. The intervention group is treated with an intra-articular injection with autologous, micro-fragmented adipose tissue prepared using the Lipogems® system. The control group receives an intra-articular injection with isotonic saline. In total, 120 patients are to be included.

The primary outcome is The Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS4) evaluated at 6 months. Secondary outcomes are KOOS at 3, 12 and 24 months; the Tegner activity score; treatment failure; and work status of the patient. The analysis will be conducted both as intention-to-treat and per-protocol analysis.

Discussion

This trial is the first to investigate the efficacy of autologous, micro-fragmented adipose tissue in a randomized controlled trial. The study uses the patient-reported outcome measure Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS4) after 6 months as the primary outcome, as it is believed to be a valid measure to assess the patient’s opinion about their knee and associated problems when suffering from osteoarthritis.
The role of MORC3 in silencing transposable elements in mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Desai Varsha P. , Chouaref Jihed , Wu Haoyu , Pastor William A. , Kan Ryan L. , Oey Harald M. , Li Zheng , Ho Jamie , Vonk Kelly K. D. , San Leon Granado David , Christopher Michael A. , Clark Amander T. , Jacobsen Steven E. , Daxinger Lucia
Published: October 2021

Background

Microrchidia proteins (MORCs) are involved in epigenetic gene silencing in a variety of eukaryotic organisms. Deletion of MORCs result in several developmental abnormalities and their dysregulation has been implicated in developmental disease and multiple cancers. Specifically, mammalian MORC3 mutations are associated with immune system defects and human cancers such as bladder, uterine, stomach, lung, and diffuse large B cell lymphomas. While previous studies have shown that MORC3 binds to H3K4me3 in vitro and overlaps with H3K4me3 ChIP-seq peaks in mouse embryonic stem cells, the mechanism by which MORC3 regulates gene expression is unknown.

Results

In this study, we identified that mutation in Morc3 results in a suppressor of variegation phenotype in a Modifiers of murine metastable epialleles Dominant (MommeD) screen. We also find that MORC3 functions as an epigenetic silencer of transposable elements (TEs) in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Loss of Morc3 results in upregulation of TEs, specifically those belonging to the LTR class of retrotransposons also referred to as endogenous retroviruses (ERVs). Using ChIP-seq we found that MORC3, in addition to its known localization at H3K4me3 sites, also binds to ERVs, suggesting a direct role in regulating their expression. Previous studies have shown that these ERVs are marked by the repressive histone mark H3K9me3 which plays a key role in their silencing. However, we found that levels of H3K9me3 showed only minor losses in Morc3 mutant mES cells. Instead, we found that loss of Morc3 resulted in increased chromatin accessibility at ERVs as measured by ATAC-seq.

Conclusions

Our results reveal MORC3 as a novel regulator of ERV silencing in mouse embryonic stem cells. The relatively minor changes of H3K9me3 in the Morc3 mutant suggests that MORC3 acts mainly downstream of, or in a parallel pathway with, the TRIM28/SETDB1 complex that deposits H3K9me3 at these loci. The increased chromatin accessibility of ERVs in the Morc3 mutant suggests that MORC3 may act at the level of chromatin compaction to effect TE silencing.
Mixed effect of increasing outflow of medical patients from an emergency department
Authors: Mendlovic Joseph , Zalut Todd , Munter Gabriel , Merin Ofer , Yinnon Amos M. , Katz David E.
Published: October 2021

Background and aim

Since 2014, the annual number of patients entering our emergency department (ED) has increased significantly. These were primarily Internal Medicine (IM) patients, and of these, 25–30% were admitted. The present governmental policy presents a deterrent to adding IM beds for these patients, and Emergency and IM departments cope with ever-increasing number of IM patients. We describe a quality improvement intervention to increase outflow of IM patients from the ED to the IM departments.

Methods

We conducted a quality improvement intervention at the Shaare Zedek Medical Center from 2014 to 2018. The first stage consisted of an effort to increase morning discharges from the IM departments. The second stage consisted of establishing a process to increase the number of admissions to the IM departments from the ED.

Results

Implementation of the first stage led to an increased morning discharge rate from a baseline of 2–4 to 18%. The second stage led to an immediate mean (± SD) morning transfer of 35 ± 7 patients to the medical departments (8–12 per department), providing significant relief for the ED. However, the additional workload for the IM departments’ medical and nursing staff led to a rapid decrease in morning discharges, returning to pre-intervention rates. Throughout the period of the new throughput intervention, morning admissions increased from 30 to > 70%, and were sustained. The number of patients in each department increased from 36 to 38 to a new steady state of 42–44, included constant hallway housing, and often midday peaks of 48–50 patients. Mean length of stay did not change. IM physician and nurse dissatisfaction led to increased number of patients being admitted during the evening and night hours and fewer during the morning.

Conclusion

We describe a quality improvement intervention to improve outflow of medical patients from the ED in the morning hours. The new ED practices had mixed effects. They led to less ED crowding in the morning hours but increased dissatisfaction among the IM department medical and nursing staff due to an increased number of admissions in a limited number of hours. The present governmental reimbursement policy needs to address hospital overcrowding as it relates to limited community healthcare beds and an aging population.
The relevance of target product profiles for manufacturers, experiences from the World Health Organization initiative for point-of-care testing for sexually transmitted infections
Authors: Murtagh Maurine , Blondeel Karel , Peeling Rosanna W. , Kiarie James , Toskin Igor
Published: October 2021

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a significant global public health issue that cause a high burden of disease, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Screening of key populations and early and accurate diagnosis of infection are critical. Testing for syphilis, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, curable STIs, as well as the human papillomavirus (HPV), is frequently unavailable in low-resource settings. Tests for these STIs that can be used at the point of patient care (POCTs) are needed.

In recent years, there has been increased attention for STI POCTs, but technical guidance, financial resources and advocacy for additional platforms/tests are required in order to foster the development of STI POCTs. The WHO Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research (SRH) has developed target product profiles (TPPs), a form of technical guidance, for these STI diagnostics.

Methods

SRH conducted a survey of selected companies that are developing POCTs for one or more of the STIs mentioned above to better understand how these TPPs influence the diagnostic development process – to assess their impact.

Results

Survey respondents indicated that the STI POCT TPPs provided good guidance with respect to performance expectations and operational characteristics for the tests/platforms. In particular, optimal metrics for sensitivity, specificity, sample types, and time to result were considered to be very useful.

Respondents also suggested ways to improve the relevance of the STI POCT TPPs. For example, since it is often not possible for developers to achieve every desired standard, it would be useful to prioritize each performance/operational characteristic of the test and to provide a rationale as to why certain characteristics are considered important.

Respondents also emphasized the need to encourage industry participation in the TPP development process and to find creative ways, including via targeted emails, a WHO webpage directed at industry, or a coordinated communications plan to increase awareness of the TPPs.

Conclusions

Companies value the STI POCT TPPs and want them to continue. In order to maximize impact, WHO should consider the proposals from the manufacturers in the interest of increasing and accelerating access to STI diagnostics and treatment in low-resource settings.
Roles of the intestinal microbiota and microbial metabolites in acute GVHD
Authors: Lin Dandan , Hu Bo , Li Pengfei , Zhao Ye , Xu Yang , Wu Depei
Published: October 2021

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is one of the most curative strategies for the treatment of many hematologic malignancies and diseases. However, acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) limits the success of allo-HSCT. The prevention and treatment of acute GVHD is the key issue for improving the efficacy of allo-HSCT and has become a research hotspot. The intestine is the primary organ targeted by acute GVHD, and the intestinal microbiota is critical for maintaining the homeostasis of the intestinal microenvironment and the immune response. Many studies have demonstrated the close association between the intestinal microbiota and the pathogenesis of acute GVHD. Furthermore, dysbiosis of the microbiota, which manifests as alterations in the diversity and composition of the intestinal microbiota, and alterations of microbial metabolites are pronounced in acute GVHD and associated with poor patient prognosis. The microbiota interacts with the host directly via microbial surface antigens or microbiota-derived metabolites to regulate intestinal homeostasis and the immune response. Therefore, intervention strategies targeting the intestinal microbiota, including antibiotics, prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), are potential new treatment options for acute GVHD. In this review, we discuss the alterations and roles of the intestinal microbiota and its metabolites in acute GVHD, as well as interventions targeting microbiota for the prevention and treatment of acute GVHD.
Five transition pathways to renewable energy futures—scenarios from a Delphi study on key drivers and policy options
Authors: Rikkonen Pasi , Lauttamäki Ville , Parkkinen Marjukka , Varho Vilja , Tapio Petri
Published: October 2021

At many levels of society—in regions, corporations, and among citizens—awareness is increasing, and actions towards more sustainable energy are being taken. The key drivers of this transition have been climate change, the scarcity of resources, and environmental consciousness. The speed of change and its impacts on the energy system transition are still unknown. It is therefore important to anticipate probable, preferable, or avoidable future paths that will contribute to the discussion of the direction and conditions of such futures. In this article, five energy scenarios are presented for Finland until 2030. The scenarios are based on a two-round Delphi application, in which energy experts were first interviewed and then a survey phase was conducted. We used cluster analysis to construct the scenarios and arranged the responses to open-ended questions as narratives to deepen the scenarios. Based on the cluster analysis, five clusters were constructed, namely, (1) business as usual, (2) energy saving and decarbonisation, (3) climate-friendly transformation, (4) green growth, and (5) degrowth. These scenarios illustrate how varying sets of drivers of change in society, and a set of energy policy measures, are connected with energy futures. Expert information thus organised can be used to advise policymakers when designing future climate and energy policy.
Burnout among staff on specialized eating disorder units in Norway
Authors: Hage Trine Wiig , Isaksson Rø Karin , Rø Øyvind
Published: October 2021

Objective

Burnout is commonly associated with low workplace wellbeing. Patients with eating disorders are frequently referred to as a particularly challenging group to treat. It is therefore important to study healthcare providers´ workplace wellbeing in settings which treat eating disorders. The aims of the current study were to (a) measure burnout among healthcare providers working on specialized eating disorder units in Norway, and (b) explore factors predicting burnout.

Methods

186 participants from 11 specialized eating disorder units in Norway completed an online survey including the Mashlach Burnout Inventory, and eating disorder-specific factors related to burnout, job satisfaction, work environment, emotional dissonance and stress. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify predictors of burnout.

Results

Overall, low levels of burnout were found among the participants. Eating disorder-specific factors and emotional dissonance predicted the three central aspects of burnout, namely, emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a diminished sense of personal accomplishment.

Conclusions

Findings suggest a relatively low level of burnout across age, gender, and professional categories working at specialized eating disorder units, contrary to commonly-held assumptions pertaining to the challenges involved in treating individuals with eating disorders.
Biological anomalies in the sugarcane leafhopper, Pyrilla perpusilla (Walker) due to parasitism by Fulgoraecia melanoleuca (Fletcher) (Lepidoptera: Epipyropidae)
Authors: Sharma Tarun , Shera P. S.
Published: October 2021

Background

Fulgoraecia melanoleuca (Fletcher) (Lepidoptera: Epipyropidae) (= Epipyrops or Epiricania melanoleuca) is an important koinobiont nymphal and adult ectoparasitoid of sugarcane leafhopper, Pyrilla perpusilla (Walker) (Hemiptera: Lophopidae). The study aimed to evaluate whether and to what extent this parasitoid effects the fitness of immature (five nymphal stages) and adult (♂ and ♀) stages of its host P. perpusilla.

Results

The nymphal mortality was significantly more in the younger nymphs, and it decreased as the host aged. The exposure of the first stage host nymphs to the parasitoid resulted in 100% mortality. However, the nymphal mortality rates in second, third, fourth and fifth nymphal stage were 94.0, 75.0, 38.0 and 41.0%, respectively. Furthermore, the longevity of surviving nymphs was prolonged significantly in the later stages. None of the parasitized first to fourth stage nymphs survived as normal adult. In case of the parasitized fifth nymphal stage, 18.0% adults were normal; however, their longevity was comparatively shorter than their un-parasitized counter parts. When male and female adults of leafhopper were offered to the parasitoid, significant differences were found in mortality of parasitized and un-parasitized adults for both sexes. Further, parasitoid-induced prolongation in the longevity of the surviving parasitized adults was also observed.

Conclusions

Overall, the parasitoid F. melanoleuca had detrimental effects on host fitness and thus played a significant role as a biological control agent in suppressing the sugarcane leafhopper population. This study will clarify host-parasitoid relationship, developing mass rearing protocol under laboratory conditions and implementing effective strategies for augmentative releases of parasitoids in biological control program against P. perpusilla in sugarcane ecosystem.
Iron oxide nanoparticles effect on growth, physiological traits and nutritional contents of Moringa oleifera grown in saline environment
Authors: Tawfik M. M. , Mohamed Magda H. , Sadak Mervat Sh. , Thalooth Alice T.
Published: October 2021

Background

Using of nanoparticles in various aspects of life including agriculture, medicine and industry is very crucial. One of the important source for Fe nutrition in plants is Iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4NPs) due to its efficiency in releasing under different pH range. Thus, in the Model Farm of National Research Centre Egypt at El Tour South Sinai, a field experiment was carried out, to study the effect of different concentration of Fe3O4NPs (0, 20, 40, 60 ppm) on the physiological parameters and the nutritive value of Moringa under saline condition.

Results

The obtained results indicate that foliar spraying of Fe3O4NPs significantly promote growth (plant height, branches leaves number per plant, leaf area, stem diameter and biomass). Foliar treatment also increased photosynthetic pigments (chlo.a,chlob,chloa/b and carotenoids) and indole acetic acid (IAA) contents comparing with control. Hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation contents ofMoringa oleiferaleaves were decreased significantly as compared with control plant. The maximum activities of antioxidant enzymes Peroxidase (POX), poly phenol oxidase (PPO), super oxide dismutase (SOD) and nitrate reductase (NR) were observed in plants treated with 40 ppm. Different concentrations of Fe3O4NPs increased significantly crude protein, crude fiber and ash percentages as well as, some nutrient contents of moringa leaves (N, P, K and K/Na) compared with untreated control plants, meanwhile decreased Na contents.

Conclusion

Treatment ofMoringa oleiferaplant with Fe3O4NPs at different concentrations greatly decrease the harmful effect of salinity on growth by its promotive role on different studied biochemical and physiological aspects.
The long-term prognosis and predictors of epilepsy: a retrospective study in 820 patients
Authors: Yang Haoran , Zhang Jun , Yang Chenxi , Wu Dan , Liu Xiaoyun , Lu Hongjuan , Zhou Wei , Sun Wei
Published: October 2021

Background

To investigate the prognosis and predictors for seizure control in epileptic patients in China.

Methods

Eight hundred and twenty patients with epilepsy who visited Xuanwu Hospital from October 2017 to January 2020, were enrolled. The clinical information of the patients was obtained by retrospectively reviewing medical records. Prognostic measures of seizure control included remission, relapse and occurrence of drug resistance. The relationship of prognosis of seizure control with factors such as demographics, clinical characteristics and initial electroencephalography (EEG) features was investigated.

Results

A total of 503 (61.3%) patients experienced a 1-year remission and 330 (49.3% of 669) had a 2-year remission. Idiopathic type of epilepsy (P <  0.001), normal EEG (P <  0.05), number of antiepileptic drugs (P <  0.05) and seizure frequency of < 1 /month (P <  0.001) at the first arrival predicted a remission independently. Of the 503 patients who achieved a 1-year remission, 184 (36.6%) experienced a relapse, due to external reversible causes (58 patients) or with unknown reversible triggers (126 patients). No factors were found to be associated with a relapse (P > 0.05). At the end of the study, 322 patients (39.3%) developed drug resistance. The development of drug resistance was associated with the following factors: symptomatic aetiology of epilepsy, epileptiform abnormality in EEG, number of antiepileptic drugs and seizure frequency of ≥1 /month at first arrival (P <  0.001). For symptomatic epilepsy, patients with meningitis/encephalitis (P = 0.007) were more likely to develop drug-resistant epilepsy than these with other causes.

Conclusions

Remission is a common process. The type of epilepsy (idiopathic or symptomatic), EEG features, seizure frequency and treatment history at first arrival are related to both remission and terminal drug resistance. Among various causes of symptomatic epilepsy, meningitis/encephalitis is associated with the worst prognosis of epilepsy.
Value of HRCT of the chest in evaluation of ankylosing spondylitis: correlation between pleuro-parenchymal abnormalities and disease activity
Authors: Ibrahim Iman Mohamed Hamdy , Alaqel Ahlam Ahmed Hussein , Ghobashy Nehal El , Azzam Adel Ibrahim , Abd El-Mageed Mohammed Raafat
Published: October 2021

Background

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder primarily involving the sacroiliac joints and spine. It is associated with both articular and extra-articular clinical manifestations. Pulmonary involvement is a well-recognized comorbidity of AS, even among patients with early disease. The availability of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) has enabled better visualization of the entire lung parenchyma and earlier identification of lung pathologies, ranging from mild to more severe involvement, which were previously missed on X-rays. The aim of the study is to establish the role of HRCT in the detection of pleuro-parenchymal manifestations of AS and to look for correlations between these findings and AS activity.

Results

Lung CT scans were done for all our patients and 27 patients (90%) had positive HRCT thoracic findings, while the remaining 3 patients (10%) had a normal HRCT thoracic study. Lower lobe fibrotic changes were the most common finding seen in 20 patients (66.7%) followed by bronchial wall thickening in 13 patients (43.3%) and upper and lower fibrotic changes seen in 9 patients (30%). HRCT thoracic findings were more prominent in late AS (disease duration ≥ 10 years) (13 of 13 patients); while 14 of 17 patients with early AS (disease duration < 10 years) had mildly abnormal HRCT findings. The result of statistical analysis showed that there was negative correlation between thoracic findings and disease activity assessed by BASDAI and this correlation was insignificant (p value = 0.5).

Conclusion

HRCT offers an accurate and safe method of assessment of lung disease in patients with AS and without respiratory symptoms. Although there was no correlation between pulmonary findings and AS activity assessed by BASDAI, a positive correlation, albeit insignificant, between pulmonary involvement and disease duration had been found.
Efficacy of TheraTogs orthotic undergarment on modulation of spinal geometry in children with diplegic cerebral palsy
Authors: El Kafy Ehab Mohamed Abd , El-Shamy Shamekh Mohamed
Published: October 2021

Background

The use of TheraTogs orthotic undergarments has been suggested to improve the ability to stabilize the posture, to correct or prevent deformities, to improve functionality, and to enable the user a more appropriate functional pattern. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of TheraTogs orthotic undergarment on modulation of spinal geometry in children with diplegic cerebral palsy. Forty children with diplegic cerebral palsy, with ages ranging from 6 to 9 years, were selected for this randomized controlled study. They were randomly assigned to (1) an experimental group that received TheraTogs orthotic undergarment (12 h/day, 3 days/week) plus traditional physical therapy for 3 successive months and (2) a control group that received only traditional physical therapy program for the same time period. Spinal geometry was measured at baseline and after 3 months of intervention using the Formetric system.

Results

Children in both groups showed significant improvements in the spinal geometry (P < 0.05), with significantly greater improvements in the experimental group than the control group. The post-treatment mean values of lateral deviation (mm), pelvic tilt (mm), trunk imbalance (mm), and surface rotation (mm) were 5.45, 6.35, 8.8, and 3.65 and 8, 8.9, 11.2, and 5.9 for the experimental and control group, respectively.

Conclusions

TheraTogs orthotic undergarment may be a useful tool for improving spinal geometry in children with diplegic cerebral palsy.

Trial registration

This study was registered in the ClinicalTrial.gov PRS (NCT04271618).
Market Entry, Fighting Brands, and Tacit Collusion: Evidence from the French Mobile Telecommunications Market
Authors: Bourreau Marc , Sun Yutec , Verboven Frank
Published: October 2021

We study a major new entry in the French mobile telecommunications market, followed by the introduction of fighting brands by the three incumbents. Using an empirical oligopoly model, we find that the incumbents’ fighting brand strategies are difficult to rationalize as unilateral best responses. Instead, their strategies are consistent with a breakdown of tacit semi-collusion: before entry, the incumbents could successfully coordinate on restricting product variety to avoid cannibalization; after entry, this outcome became harder to sustain because of increased business stealing incentives. Consumers gained considerably from the added variety and, to a lesser extent, from the incumbents’ price responses. (JEL L13, L21, L96, M31)
The Intergenerational Effects of a Large Wealth Shock: White Southerners after the Civil War
Authors: Ager Philipp , Boustan Leah , Eriksson Katherine
Published: October 2021

The nullification of slave wealth after the US Civil War (1861–1865) was one of the largest episodes of wealth compression in history. We document that White Southern households that owned more slaves in 1860 lost substantially more wealth by 1870, relative to Southern households that had been equally wealthy before the war. Yet, their sons almost entirely recovered from this wealth shock by 1900, and their grandsons completely converged by 1940. Marriage networks and connections to other elite families may have aided in recovery, whereas transmission of entrepreneurship and skills appear less central. (JEL D31, G51, J15, J24, N31, N32)
Apocalypsis
Authors: Αθανασοπούλου Ευγενία-Μαρία
Published: October 2021

Το έργο του Alexander Nikolaevich Scriabin συνήθως εξετάζεται από τους μελετητές είτε αποκλειστικά μουσικολογικά είτε αποκλειστικά φιλοσοφικά. Παρόλα αυτά, ο συνδυασμός των δύο αυτών προσεγγίσεων θα έπρεπε να αποτελεί τον πιο κοντινό δρόμο. Για την κατανόηση της μουσικής πραγματικότητας του συνθέτη, πιστεύω ότι είναι αναγκαίες αμφότερες οι δυο αυτές διαστάσεις. Δέκτης πολλών και ποικίλων καλλιτεχνικών και πνευματικών επιρροών, ο Scriabin επεδίωξε να εκφράσει την επίδραση που άσκησαν επάνω του οι τάσεις της εποχής του με τη μουσική —–­ το ιδιαίτερο όχημα (vehicle) της επικοινωνίας των βιωμάτων του για τον εαυτό του και τον κόσμο. Η οικουμενικότητα και η υπερβατικότητα έδεσαν τη σχέση φιλοσοφίας και μουσικής και οδήγησαν την έμπνευση σε μουσικές καινοτομίες. Με βασικό άξονα τη σχέση μουσικής και φιλοσοφίας επιχειρώ στη διατριβή μια συστηματική ανάλυση του πολυσχιδούς έργου του συνθέτη με διττό σκοπό: α) να φωτίσω την ευρύτερη μουσικολογική γνώση και β) να αποκτήσω ένα πρωτογενές υλικό με βάση το οποίο να αποπειραθώ τη σύνθεση ενός κύκλου από μουσικά έργα. Δηλαδή να δω τον Scriabin φιλοσοφικά και επιστημονικά και τελικά να τον τιμήσω με τον ίδιο τρόπο που εκείνος έδωσε στον κόσμο τη βαθύτερη σχέση του με τον Εαυτό και τον κόσμο. Την ανάλυση θα φωτίσει το πρωτογενές υλικό από τα σημειωματάρια του συνθέτη, υλικό από τα αρχεία του Μουσείου Scriabin της Μόσχας το οποίο διατηρείται μέχρι σήμερα άθικτο στην τελευταία κατοικία του συνθέτη, οδηγίες και επεξηγήσεις όσον αφορά στο μουσικό του έργο τόσο επιτελεστικά όσο και ιδεολογικά, πληροφορίες και πηγές, μαρτυρίες κοντινών προσώπων και βιογράφων του συνθέτη και τέλος, οι φιλοσοφικές ιδέες τις οποίες ο ίδιος ο Scriabin επέλεξε να εντάξει στην μουσική του και ειδικά στα τελευταία του έργα προς το τέλος της ζωής του. Η διατριβή δεν επιχειρεί μια απλή παράθεση των παραγόντων που έπαιξαν καθοριστικό ρόλο στην παραγωγή των έργων του συνθέτη αλλά δημιουργεί τις προϋποθέσεις για μια διερεύνηση μέσα από ειδικές πρακτικές ανάλυσης και σύνθεσης στην προσπάθεια ανάδειξης του πολυδιάστατου έργου του Alexander Scriabin.
The post-pandemic era: will physical distancing be a perceived way of life?
Authors: Khan Soban Qadir , Al-Humaid Jehan , Farooqi Faraz Ahmed , Gad Mohammed M. , Al-Hareky Muhanad , Al-Onaizan Faisal , Al-Harbi Fahad A.
Published: October 2021

Background: This study aimed to determine whether people living in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia would prefer to continue the practice of physical distancing after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic or to return to their previous way of life.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2020 to October 2020 in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. A pre-tested questionnaire was sent electronically through social media. Data on participants’ demographics and their perspectives regarding post-pandemic physical distancing were collected. The calculated sample size was 1,066; however, the total number of responses included in the analysis was 989.

Results: The average age of the participants was 31.15±11.93 years. There were 435 men and 554 women in the study. Participants showed significantly high levels of disagreement with statements indicating that they were willing to use public transportation (61%), attend social gatherings (36%), and hug relatives or colleagues (40%) after the pandemic (p<0.001); however, 43% agreed that they would spend time with family or friends (p<0.001). The level of education was also found to be significantly related to the responses, and the level of disagreement increased as the level of education increased (p<0.001).

Conclusions: One-third of the study participants planned to continue engaging in physical distancing even after the current pandemic. This clearly indicates that our lives are not returning to how they were before the pandemic. However, it cannot be concluded whether or not this behavior will prevail in the long run. If so, it may greatly affect some businesses and perhaps some social norms and values as well.
Myofunctional training with negative airway pressure for obstructive sleep apnea: a prospective non-randomized cohort feasibility study
Authors: Karan Suzanne , Voter William A. , Ward Denham
Published: October 2021

Background: Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT), for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is emerging with recognition of specific phenotypes. Since many OSA sufferers are already familiar with positive airway pressure machines, we designed an OMT protocol involving the modification of such a machine to deliver negative airway pressure.  We hypothesized that a three-month trial of using this protocol while awake would reduce the signs and symptoms of OSA.

Methods: Fifteen adults with OSA enrolled for 30-minute sessions/three days a week for a three-month trial of “upper airway muscle physical therapy” while awake. Overnight sleep studies were performed before and after the intervention to determine each subject’s apnea hypopnea index (AHI), the primary outcome measure. Negative airway pressure application was determined by estimation of each subject’s one-repetition maximum (an exercise physiology measure of strength capacity). Exercise sessions consisted of subjects breathing against this pressure for a series of repetitions, and sets.

Results: While the mean post study AHI was slightly improved (-4.3 ± 12.0 [ -10.9, 2.3], mean ± standard deviation, 95% confidence interval), it was not statistically significant.  The results were similar when the AHI was divided by the sleep state (REM vs. non-REM).  The nadir saturation was also essentially unchanged. The eight subjects with mild or moderate OSA (AHI < 30) showed similar results.

Conclusions: Though there was no significant reduction in AHI in this small cohort, the methods elucidate a new daytime use for a machine with which many OSA sufferers are familiar.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02109731 (registered on April 10th 2015)
Lightning Behaviour during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yusfiandika Fazandra , Lim Siow Chun , Gomes Chandima , Chockalingam Aravind , Cheng Pay Lee
Published: October 2021

Background

COVID-19 has drastically dampened human activities since early 2020. Studies have shown that this has resulted in changes in air temperature and humidity. Since lightning activities are dependent on air temperature and humidity, this study is conducted to evaluate the correlation between the intensity of lightning activities with the atmospheric changes, and investigates the changes, in lightning activities due to atmospheric changes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

The hypothesis was tested through a t-test and Pearson’s correlation study. The variation trend of lightning strikes count (LSC) in Europe and Oceania during the five months COVID-19 lockdown period (March – July) compared to the same period in the previous five years from 2015 to 2019 is investigated.

Results

Statistical analysis shows the LSC in Europe and Oceania during the lockdown period dropped significantly by more than 50% and 44% respectively compared to the same period in previous five years. Furthermore, LSC was found to be positively correlated with air temperature and relative humidity in Europe. However, in Oceania, LSC seems to be only positively correlated with air temperature but negatively correlated with relative humidity.

Conclusions

This study seems to suggest that lightning activities have significantly changed during this pandemic due to reduction in human activities.
Production and characteristics of sailfin catfish (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) protein hydrolysate
Authors: Prihanto Asep Awaludin , Nurdiani Rahmi , Sari Lina Widya
Published: October 2021

Background: The sailfin catfish (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) is a freshwater fish from the Loricariidae family, and is considered an invasive species in Indonesia. The fish is usually neglected and discarded. Its protein hydrolysate is the product of the breakdown of proteins into amino acids through the hydrolysis of acids, bases, or enzymes. Therefore, this study aims to determine the hydrolysate characteristics of sailfin catfish (Pterygoplichthys pardalis) proteins, produced with different pH and hydrolysis durations.

Methods: The hydrolysis was carried out with variable pH (control, 5, 7, 9) and hydrolysis durations (12 and 24 hours) in three replicates.

Results: The hydrolysis duration, pH, and interaction of both variables had significant effects (p<0.05) on the parameters of yield, antioxidant activity, degree of hydrolysis, protein levels, and ash content. Similarly, the moisture content, hydrolysis duration, and pH were significantly affected (p<0.05), while their interactions were not (p>0.05).

The pH treatment had a significant effect on fat content (p<0.05), while the hydrolysis length and the interaction between the two had no significant effect (p>0.05). Based on this study, the best resulting production of fish protein hydrolysate (FPH) from sailfin catfish were a for a combination of pH 9 and a hydrolysis duration of 24 hours. The characteristics of FPH produced were as follows: a yield of 57.39%, antioxidant activity 63.99%, degree of hydrolysis 40.67%, water content 7.28%, ash content 7.63%, fat content 5.10%, protein content 34.51%, molecular weight 6.14 -118.17 KDa, total essential amino acids 49.30%, and nonessential amino acids 50.71%.

Conclusions: Two factors affected FPH characteristics in sailfin catfish (Pterygoplichthys pardalis). The best processing conditions to obtain optimal characteristics for FPH were a yield of 57.39%, antioxidant levels of 63.99%, a DH of 40.67%, a moisture content of 7.28%, ash content of 7.63%, fat content of 5.10%, and protein content of 34.51%.
Data assimilation and agent-based modelling: towards the incorporation of categorical agent parameters
Authors: Ternes Patricia , Ward Jonathan A , Heppenstall Alison , Kumar Vijay , Kieu Le-Minh , Malleson Nick
Published: October 2021

This paper explores the use of a particle filter—a data assimilation method—to incorporate real-time data into an agent-based model. We apply the method to a simulation of real pedestrians moving through the concourse of Grand Central Terminal in New York City (USA).  The results show that the particle filter does not perform well due to (i) the unpredictable behaviour of some pedestrians and (ii) because the filter does not optimise the categorical agent parameters that are characteristic of this type of model. This problem only arises because the experiments use real-world pedestrian movement data, rather than simulated, hypothetical data, as is more common. We point to a potential solution that involves resampling some of the variables in a particle, such as the locations of the agents in space, but keeps other variables such as the agents’ choice of destination. This research illustrates the importance of including real-world data and provides a proof of concept for the application of an improved particle filter to an agent-based model.  The obstacles and solutions discussed have important implications for future work that is focused on building large-scale real-time agent-based models.
CONCEPTUAL APPROACHES TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR IN TERMS OF THE CLOSED-CYCLE ECONOMY
Authors: Prodanova Natalia A. , Savin Alexander A. , Kosnikov Sergey N. , Sorgutov Ilya V.
Published: October 2021

The current stage of development of the agricultural industry is characterized by high rates of automation of production processes. In this regard, the problem of rationalizing the process of distributing agricultural resources and organizing the production chain with added value is becoming more acute. An effective solution to this problem can be a closed-cycle economy model. This model can contribute to the rational use of resources, reduce production losses, and, as a result, improve the quality of products and their volumes. It is necessary to develop a general plan for the implementation of the main postulates of the closed-cycle economy in agriculture, gradually implement the circular economy strategy and include new industrial circular economy in the process of modernization of a particular branch of agriculture. In some areas of agriculture, a cycle of production systems should be established as soon as possible. With the basic implementation of new industrial technologies and industrial development, as well as the stability of the reserves of social resources, it is necessary to steadily increase the new cycle of industrialization in agriculture.
Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Adrenal Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma after Treatment for Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Hashimoto Akiko , Asai Satsuki , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Shinzato Isaku
Published: October 2021

Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) can be complicated by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive B-cell lymphoma. B-cell lymphoma may develop simultaneously at the time of AITL diagnosis or after treatment for AITL. EBV-associated B-cell lymphoma can occur in nodal and extranodal sites. We report a case of EBV-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the left adrenal gland that developed after treatment for AITL. The patient presented with systemic lymphadenopathy and biopsy of one lymph node showed AITL. A complete response (CR) was achieved after initial chemotherapy for AITL, but 9 months later the left adrenal gland was enlarged. The diagnosis of EBV-positive DLBCL was made based on the histopathological findings of the left adrenal gland biopsy. Thus, EBV-positive DLBCL developed after AITL CR was achieved. Multi-drug chemotherapy combined with rituximab was administered for adrenal DLBCL, but only a partial response was achieved. We confirmed that EBV-positive B-cell lymphoma developed after treatment for AITL. An adrenal primary is rare, and this is only the second case of EBV-positive B-cell lymphoma to be reported after treatment for AITL. Clinicians should keep in mind that when nodal and extranodal lesions are seen after AITL treatment, another biopsy should be performed for the accurate determination of whether these lesions indicate AITL relapse or new-onset EBV-positive B-cell lymphoma.
Photoplethysmographic analysis of retinal videodata based on the Fourier domain approach
Authors: Kolář Radim , Odstrčilík Jan , Tornow Ralf-Peter
Published: October 2021

Assessment of retinal blood flow inside the optic nerve head (ONH) and the peripapillary area is an important task in retinal imaging. For this purpose, an experimental binocular video ophthalmoscope that acquires precisely synchronized video sequences of the optic nerve head and peripapillary area from both eyes has been previously developed. It enables to compare specific characteristics of both eyes and efficiently detect the eye asymmetry. In this paper, we describe a novel methodology for the analysis of acquired video data using a photoplethysmographic approach. We describe and calculate the pulsatile attenuation amplitude (PAA) spatial map, which quantifies the maximum relative change of blood volume during a cardiac cycle using a frequency domain approach. We also describe in detail the origin of PAA maps from the fundamental (the first) and the second harmonic component of the pulsatile signal, and we compare the results obtained by time-based and frequency-based approaches. In several cases, we show the advantages and possibilities of this device and the appropriate image analysis approach - fast measurement and comparison of blood flow characteristics of both eyes at a glance, the robustness of this approach, and the possibility of easy detection of asymmetry.
Universal linear optics by programmable multimode interference
Authors: Larocque Hugo , Englund Dirk
Published: October 2021

We introduce a constructive algorithm for universal linear electromagnetic transformations between the N input and N output modes of a dielectric slab. The approach uses out-of-plane phase modulation programmed down to N2 degrees of freedom. The total area of these modulators equals that of the entire slab: our scheme makes optimal use of the available area for optical modulation. We also present error correction schemes that enable high-fidelity unitary transformations at large N. This “programmable multimode interferometer” (ProMMI) thus translates the algorithmic simplicity of Mach-Zehnder meshes into a holographically programmed slab, yielding DoF-limited compactness and error tolerance while eliminating the dominant sidewall-related optical losses and directional-coupler-related patterning challenges.
Ultra-wideband absorber for electromagnetic waves under large incident angle based on spoof surface plasmon polaritons
Authors: Jidi Liaori , Cao Xiangyu , Gao Jun , Li Tong , Yang Huanhuan , Li Sijia
Published: October 2021

In this work, we proposed an ultra-wideband absorber using the dispersion characteristics of spoof surface plasmon polaritons (SSPP). The electromagnetic waves propagating on the SSPP structure have extremely slow group velocity and are confined in the sub-wavelength regions near the asymptotic frequency of the SSPP, and that electromagnetic energy can be absorbed by the high-lossy substrate and lumped resistors. The metallic strips of the SSPP structure are vertically bended and loaded with lumped resistors, and their lengths are linearly varied. This absorber performs excellent absorption ability, including ultra-wideband absorption, almost polarization insensitive performance, and high absorptivity under large incident angles for both transverse magnetic and transverse electronic waves. Based on the simulation analysis, an absorber sample was fabricated and measured, and the simulated and measured results are consistent with each other, validating the design method.