bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood-based epigenome-wide analyses of cognitive abilities
Authors: McCartney Daniel L. , Hillary Robert F. , Conole Eleanor L. S. , Banos Daniel Trejo , Gadd Danni A. , Walker Rosie M. , Nangle Cliff , Flaig Robin , Campbell Archie , Murray Alison D. , Maniega Susana Muñoz , Valdés-Hernández María del C. , Harris Mathew A. , Bastin Mark E. , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Harris Sarah E. , Porteous David J. , Tucker-Drob Elliot M. , McIntosh Andrew M. , Evans Kathryn L. , Deary Ian J. , Cox Simon R. , Robinson Matthew R. , Marioni Riccardo E.
Published: January 2022

Background

Blood-based markers of cognitive functioning might provide an accessible way to track neurodegeneration years prior to clinical manifestation of cognitive impairment and dementia.

Results

Using blood-based epigenome-wide analyses of general cognitive function, we show that individual differences in DNA methylation (DNAm) explain 35.0% of the variance in general cognitive function (g). A DNAm predictor explains ~4% of the variance, independently of a polygenic score, in two external cohorts. It also associates with circulating levels of neurology- and inflammation-related proteins, global brain imaging metrics, and regional cortical volumes.

Conclusions

As sample sizes increase, the ability to assess cognitive function from DNAm data may be informative in settings where cognitive testing is unreliable or unavailable.
Relative asymptotic equivalence of dynamic equations on time scales
Authors: Duque Cosme , Leiva Hugo , Tridane Abdessamad
Published: January 2022

This paper aims to study the relative equivalence of the solutions of the following dynamic equations $y^{\Delta }(t)=A(t)y(t)$

y
Δ

(
t
)
=
A
(
t
)
y
(
t
)
and $x^{\Delta }(t)=A(t)x(t)+f(t,x(t))$

x
Δ

(
t
)
=
A
(
t
)
x
(
t
)
+
f
(
t
,
x
(
t
)
)
in the sense that if $y(t)$
y
(
t
)
is a given solution of the unperturbed system, we provide sufficient conditions to prove that there exists a family of solutions $x(t)$
x
(
t
)
for the perturbed system such that $\Vert y(t)-x(t) \Vert =o( \Vert y(t) \Vert )$
∥
y
(
t
)
−
x
(
t
)
∥
=
o
(
∥
y
(
t
)
∥
)
, as $t\rightarrow \infty $
t
→
∞
, and conversely, given a solution $x(t)$
x
(
t
)
of the perturbed system, we give sufficient conditions for the existence of a family of solutions $y(t)$
y
(
t
)
for the unperturbed system, and such that $\Vert y(t)-x(t) \Vert =o( \Vert x(t) \Vert )$
∥
y
(
t
)
−
x
(
t
)
∥
=
o
(
∥
x
(
t
)
∥
)
, as $t\rightarrow \infty $
t
→
∞
; and in doing so, we have to extend Rodrigues inequality, the Lyapunov exponents, and the polynomial exponential trichotomy on time scales.
Locally structured correlation (LSC) plots describe inhomogeneity in normally distributed correlated bivariate variables
Authors: Mumm Rebekka , Scheffler Christiane , Hermanussen Michael
Published: January 2022

Background

The association between bivariate variables may not necessarily be homogeneous throughout the whole range of the variables. We present a new technique to describe inhomogeneity in the association of bivariate variables.

Methods

We consider the correlation of two normally distributed random variables. The 45° diagonal through the origin of coordinates represents the line on which all points would lie if the two variables completely agreed. If the two variables do not completely agree, the points will scatter on both sides of the diagonal and form a cloud. In case of a high association between the variables, the band width of this cloud will be narrow, in case of a low association, the band width will be wide. The band width directly relates to the magnitude of the correlation coefficient. We then determine the Euclidean distances between the diagonal and each point of the bivariate correlation, and rotate the coordinate system clockwise by 45°. The standard deviation of all Euclidean distances, named “global standard deviation”, reflects the band width of all points along the former diagonal. Calculating moving averages of the standard deviation along the former diagonal results in “locally structured standard deviations” and reflect patterns of “locally structured correlations (LSC)”. LSC highlight inhomogeneity of bivariate correlations. We exemplify this technique by analyzing the association between body mass index (BMI) and hip circumference (HC) in 6313 healthy East German adults aged 18 to 70 years.

Results

The correlation between BMI and HC in healthy adults is not homogeneous. LSC is able to identify regions where the predictive power of the bivariate correlation between BMI and HC increases or decreases, and highlights in our example that slim people have a higher association between BMI and HC than obese people.

Conclusion

Locally structured correlations (LSC) identify regions of higher or lower than average correlation between two normally distributed variables.
Risk factors for nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infections in patients: results from a retrospective matched case–control study in a tertiary care university center
Authors: Aghdassi Seven Johannes Sam , Schwab Frank , Peña Diaz Luis Alberto , Brodzinski Annika , Fucini Giovanni-Battista , Hansen Sonja , Kohlmorgen Britta , Piening Brar , Schlosser Beate , Schneider Sandra , Weikert Beate , Wiese-Posselt Miriam , Wolff Sebastian , Behnke Michael , Gastmeier Petra , Geffers Christine
Published: January 2022

Background

Factors contributing to the spread of SARS-CoV-2 outside the acute care hospital setting have been described in detail. However, data concerning risk factors for nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infections in hospitalized patients remain scarce. To close this research gap and inform targeted measures for the prevention of nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infections, we analyzed nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 cases in our hospital during a defined time period.

Methods

Data on nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infections in hospitalized patients that occurred between May 2020 and January 2021 at Charité university hospital in Berlin, Germany, were retrospectively gathered. A SARS-CoV-2 infection was considered nosocomial if the patient was admitted with a negative SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test and subsequently tested positive on day five or later. As the incubation period of SARS-CoV-2 can be longer than five days, we defined a subgroup of “definite” nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 cases, with a negative test on admission and a positive test after day 10, for which we conducted a matched case–control study with a one to one ratio of cases and controls. We employed a multivariable logistic regression model to identify factors significantly increasing the likelihood of nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infections.

Results

A total of 170 patients with a nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infection were identified. The majority of nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 patients (n = 157, 92%) had been treated at wards that reported an outbreak of nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 cases during their stay or up to 14 days later. For 76 patients with definite nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infections, controls for the case–control study were matched. For this subgroup, the multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed documented contact to SARS-CoV-2 cases (odds ratio: 23.4 (95% confidence interval: 4.6–117.7)) and presence at a ward that experienced a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak (odds ratio: 15.9 (95% confidence interval: 2.5–100.8)) to be the principal risk factors for nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusions

With known contact to SARS-CoV-2 cases and outbreak association revealed as the primary risk factors, our findings confirm known causes of SARS-CoV-2 infections and demonstrate that these also apply to the acute care hospital setting. This underscores the importance of rapidly identifying exposed patients and taking adequate preventive measures.
Seismic Performance Assessment of Deteriorated Two-Span Reinforced Concrete Bridges
Authors: Kim Tae-Hoon
Published: January 2022

This paper presents a nonlinear analysis procedure for the seismic performance assessment of deteriorated reinforced concrete bridges using a modified damage index. A finite-element analysis program, RCAHEST (Reinforced Concrete Analysis in Higher Evaluation System Technology), is used to analyze deteriorated two-span simply supported reinforced concrete bridges. The new nonlinear material models for deteriorated reinforced concrete behaviors were proposed, considering corrosion effects as shown in a reduction in reinforcement section and bond strength. A modified damage index aims to quantify the seismic performance level in deteriorated reinforced concrete bridges. Several parameters of two-span simply supported deteriorated reinforced concrete bridge have been studied to determine the seismic performance levels. The newly developed analytical method for assessing the seismic performance of deteriorated reinforced concrete bridges is verified by comparison with the experimental and analytical parameter results.
The multi-actor approach in thematic networks for agriculture and forestry innovation
Authors: Feo Elena , Spanoghe Pieter , Berckmoes Els , Pascal Elodie , Mosquera-Losada Rosa , Opdebeeck Alexander , Burssens Sylvia
Published: January 2022

The co-creation and sharing of knowledge among different types of actors with complementary expertise is known as the Multi-Actor Approach (MAA). This paper presents how Horizon2020 Thematic-Networks (TNs) deal with the MAA and put forward best practices during the different project phases, based on the results of a desktop study, interviews, surveys and expert workshops. The study shows that not all types of actors are equally involved in TN consortia and participatory activities, meaning TNs might be not sufficiently demand-driven and the uptake of the results is not optimal. Facilitators are key to contributing to the relationships and the mutual understanding between different actors. Moreover, a user-friendly digital knowledge platform linked to demonstration activities and peer-to-peer exchange can improve the sharing of knowledge, enhancing impact in agricultural and forestry innovation in the longer term.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health response on people with eating disorder symptomatology: an Australian study
Authors: Miskovic-Wheatley Jane , Koreshe Eyza , Kim Marcellinus , Simeone Rachel , Maguire Sarah
Published: January 2022

Objective

People with lived experience of eating disorders (ED) may be particularly vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health response due to exasperating situations such as social isolation, presence of other mental and physical health conditions, disruptions to treatment, etc. This study investigates the association of the pandemic with ED symptomatology to consider impact and identify risk factors for clinical consideration.

Methods

Participants with self-reported ED diagnosis and/or symptomatology over 16 years were invited to complete an online survey during the first months of the pandemic in Australia. Questions included history of ED, occurrence of co-occurring mental health conditions, change in ED symptoms since the start of the pandemic, and validated measures of ED illness, state mental health and loneliness.

Results

Of 1723 participants (mode age 24.9 years, 91.6% identifying as female, EDE-Q Global Score x = 4.08, SD = 1.18, 79.0% reporting co-occurring mental health condition, predominantly obsessive–compulsive disorder and/or anxiety), 88.0% reported an increase in body image concerns, 74.1% in food restriction, 66.2% binge eating and 46.8% driven exercise during the pandemic. Increased ED symptomatology was associated with poorer state mental health (i.e., depression, anxiety, and stress) and loneliness across the ED symptom profile. Most participants were negatively impacted by various aspects of the public health response, more so for those with more acute ED illness as measured by the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q).

Conclusions

Associated with the COVID-19 pandemic is a mental health crisis, particularly for those with a lived experience of an eating disorder. With 40.5% of participants not having sought formal diagnostic assessment and less than half in treatment, this study provides evidence for the detrimental impact of the pandemic on people with a lived experience of an eating disorder, especially for those not yet supported by the health care system.
Effect of reducing agents on the synthesis of anisotropic gold nanoparticles
Authors: Yoo Sunghoon , Nam Dong Hwan , Singh Thangjam Ibomcha , Leem Gyu , Lee Seunghyun
Published: January 2022

The seed-mediated method is a general procedure for the synthesis of gold nanorods (Au NRs), and reducing agents such as ascorbic acid (AA) and hydroquinone (HQ) are widely used for the growth process. Further, they are mild reducing agents; however, when AA is used, controlling the size of Au NRs with a higher aspect ratio (localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) peak, λLmax > 900 nm) is challenging because it results in a faster growth rate of Au NRs. In contrast, when HQ is used, Au NRs with a higher aspect ratio can be synthesized as it slows down the growth rate of the Au NRs and greatly enhanced the λLmax. However, the increase in λLmax is still needs not satisfactory due to the limited enhancement in the aspect ratio of Au NRs due to utilization of single reducing agent. The growth kinetics of the Au NRs can be modulated by controlling the reducing power of the reducing agents. In such scenario, judicious use of two reducing agents such as AA and HQ simultaneously can help us to design Au NRs of higher aspect ratio in a controlled manner due to the optimum growth rate resulting from the combined effect of both the reducing agents. In this study, we investigated the effect of the two reducing agents by controlling the volume ratios. When the growth solution contains both the reducing agents, the growth of Au NRs is first initiated by the fast reduction of Au3+ to Au+ due to stronger reducing power of the AA and when the AA in the growth solution is completely utilized, further growth of the Au NRs continues as a result of the HQ thereby resulting to high aspect ratio Au NRs. Consequently, the LSPR peak (λLmax > 1275 nm) can be tuned by controlling the volume ratios of the reducing agents.
Resting state fMRI connectivity is sensitive to laminar connectional architecture in the human brain
Authors: Deshpande Gopikrishna , Wang Yun , Robinson Jennifer
Published: January 2022

Previous invasive studies indicate that human neocortical graymatter contains cytoarchitectonically distinct layers, with notable differences in their structural connectivity with the rest of the brain. Given recent improvements in the spatial resolution of anatomical and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we hypothesize that resting state functional connectivity (FC) derived from fMRI is sensitive to layer-specific thalamo-cortical and cortico-cortical microcircuits. Using sub-millimeter resting state fMRI data obtained at 7 T, we found that: (1) FC between the entire thalamus and cortical layers I and VI was significantly stronger than between the thalamus and other layers. Furthermore, FC between somatosensory thalamus (ventral posterolateral nucleus, VPL) and layers IV, VI of the primary somatosensory cortex were stronger than with other layers; (2) Inter-hemispheric cortico-cortical FC between homologous regions in superficial layers (layers I–III) was stronger compared to deep layers (layers V–VI). These findings are in agreement with structural connections inferred from previous invasive studies that showed that: (i) M-type neurons in the entire thalamus project to layer-I; (ii) Pyramidal neurons in layer-VI target all thalamic nuclei, (iii) C-type neurons in the VPL project to layer-IV and receive inputs from layer-VI of the primary somatosensory cortex, and (iv) 80% of collosal projecting neurons between homologous cortical regions connect superficial layers. Our results demonstrate for the first time that resting state fMRI is sensitive to structural connections between cortical layers (previously inferred through invasive studies), specifically in thalamo-cortical and cortico-cortical networks.
CNS Malformations in the Newborn
Authors: Barañano Kristin , Burd Irina
Published: January 2022

Structural brain anomalies are relatively common and may be detected either prenatally or postnatally. Brain malformations can be characterized based on the developmental processes that have been perturbed, either by environmental, infectious, disruptive or genetic causes. Fetuses and neonates with brain malformations should be thoroughly surveilled for potential other anomalies, and depending on the nature of the brain malformation, may require additional investigations such as genetic testing, ophthalmological examinations, cardiorespiratory monitoring, and screening laboratory studies.
Aggressive behavior of anaplastic undifferentiated carcinoma arising from the hilar bile duct
Authors: Akita Masayuki , Maeda Eri , Ishida Ryo , Morikawa Tatsuya , Nishimura Tohru , Abe Koichiro , Kozuki Akihito , Tanaka Tomohiro , Imai Yukihiro , Kaneda Kunihiko
Published: January 2022

Background

Undifferentiated carcinoma of the biliary tree is extremely rare, and biliary undifferentiated carcinoma mostly originates from the gallbladder. We herein present a case of anaplastic undifferentiated carcinoma of the hilar bile duct and reviewed the literature.

Case presentation

The patient was an 81-year-old male with obstructive jaundice. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) showed a protruded tumor located at the hepatic hilum. Obstructive jaundice was relieved by endoscopic drainage. Endoscopic biopsy revealed carcinoma without glandular differentiation, and the patient was diagnosed with resectable hilar undifferentiated carcinoma. During the 5-week preoperative examination, the tumor increased in size from 23 to 45 mm. Left hemi-hepatectomy and extrahepatic bile duct resection were performed, and there were no postoperative complications. Histological findings demonstrated that the tumor was mainly composed of non-cohesive polygonal neoplasms with pleomorphic nuclei, and was diagnosed as anaplastic undifferentiated carcinoma of the common hepatic duct (T2a N0 M0 Stage II). One month after surgery, the patient was readmitted to our hospital with pyrexia due to cholangitis, and liver nodules suggestive of multiple liver metastases were detected by CT. Three months after surgery, the patient died of multiple liver metastases.

Conclusions

This is the first case report of undifferentiated cholangiocarcinoma with anaplastic features. Anaplastic undifferentiated carcinoma of the hilar bile duct showed preoperative rapid growth and early relapse despite a cancer-negative surgical margin.
Online engagement and performance on formative assessments mediate the relationship between attendance and course performance
Authors: Lu Chang , Cutumisu Maria
Published: January 2022

In traditional school-based learning, attendance was regarded as a proxy for engagement and key indicator for performance. However, few studies have explored the effect of in-class attendance in technology-enhanced courses that are increasingly provided by secondary institutions. This study collected n = 367 undergraduate students’ log files from Moodle and applied learning analytics methods to measure their lecture attendance, online learning activities, and performance on online formative assessments. A baseline and an alternative structural equation models were used to investigate whether online learning engagement and formative assessment mediated the relationship between lecture attendance and course academic outcomes. Results show that lecture attendance does not have a direct effect on academic outcomes, but it promotes performance by leveraging online learning engagement and formative assessment performance. Findings contribute to understanding the impact of in-class attendance on course academic performance and the interplay of in-class and online-learning engagement factors in the context of technology-enhanced courses. This study recommends using a variety of educational technologies to pave multiple pathways to academic success.
Lessons learned from a pilot implementation of physical activity recommendations in axial spondyloarthritis exercise group therapy
Authors: Rausch Osthoff Anne-Kathrin , Vliet Vlieland Theodora P. M. , Meichtry André , van Bodegom-Vos Leti , Topalidis Beatrice , Büchi Stefan , Nast Irina , Ciurea Adrian , Niedermann Karin
Published: January 2022

Background

The Ankylosing Spondylitis Association of Switzerland (SVMB) aimed to implement physical activity recommendations (PAR) within their exercise groups (EGs). The PAR promote exercise in all fitness dimensions at the correct dose. To implement the PAR within EGs, they were translated into a new EG concept with five key activities: (a) training for supervising physiotherapists (PTs), (b) correctly dosed exercises in all fitness dimensions, (c) exercise counselling, (d) bi-annual fitness assessments, and (e) individual exercise training, in addition to EG. All these activities were realized in close coordination with SVMB management.

Objectives

To analyse the implementation success by evaluating adherence/fidelity, feasibility, and satisfaction at the patient, PTs, and organisational level.

Methods

The five key activities of the new EG concept were developed, executed, and assessed after 6 months. The primary outcomes for implementation success were adherence of patients to the recommended exercise behaviour, self-reported by electronic diary; fidelity of PTs to the new concept, self-reported by diary; SVMB organisational changes. Secondary outcomes were feasibility and satisfaction with the new EG concept at all three levels. The tertiary outcome, to evaluate the effectiveness of PAR, was patient fitness, assessed through fitness assessments.

Results

30 patients with axSpA (ten women, mean age 58 ± 9 years) and four PTs (three women, mean age 46 ± 9 years) participated. The patients' self-reporting of adherence to the PAR was insufficient (43%), possibly due to technical problems with the electronic dairy. The PTs' fidelity to the new EG concept was satisfactory. On all levels, the new concept was generally perceived as feasible and useful for supporting personalised exercise.The frequency of exercise counselling and the fitness assessments was found by patients and PTs to be too high and rigid. Patients' cardiorespiratory fitness [ES 1.21 (95%CI 0.59, 1.89)] and core strength [ES 0.61 (95%CI 0.18, 1.06)] improved over the 6 months.

Conclusions

The pilot implementation of PAR showed acceptance and satisfaction to be sufficient, thus confirming the need for evidence-based EGs, provided by a patient organisation in order to support active PA behaviour. However, adaptations are necessary to increase its feasibility for nationwide implementation.

Trial Registration: SNCTP, SNCTP000002880. Registered 31 May 2018,https://www.kofam.ch/en/snctp-portal/search/0/study/42491.
The role of the rapid molecular test (RMT) and the provision of a negative pressure mortuary room in reducing COVID-19 corpse handling protocol rejection: experiences with religious conservative groups
Authors: Syamsun Arfi , Kadriyan Hamsu , Lestari Ni Putu Sasmita , Lestarini Ima Arum , Rivarti Arina Windri , Bukhari Agussalim , Haikal Zikrul
Published: January 2022

Background

This study explores the difference in COVID-19 corpse handling protocol rejection before and after the innovation in rapid molecular test (RMT) postmortem examination and providing negative pressure mortuary rooms. This study is a retrospective observational study. Each of the corpse’s immediate family was explained the procedure for handling the body based on the fatwa of the religious institution and the hospital’s standard operating system. The acceptance or rejection of the protocol, general characteristics of the corpse, and the reasons for refusal are documented.

Results

From March to May 2020, there were 16 probable COVID-19 corpses and 3 confirmed COVID-19 corpses. Rejection of the COVID-19 corpse protocol occurred six times. The main reason for rejection is that the death might not necessarily be caused by COVID-19, the body’s handling in the hospital is not following religious law, and the negative stigma of COVID-19. From June to August 2020, there were 42 probable COVID-19 corpses and 49 confirmed COVID-19 corpses. Rejection of the COVID-19 corpse protocol occurred eight times. The most rejection reason is that the deceased families do not believe the deceased died because of COVID-19.

Conclusions

The decline in the COVID-19 corpse protocol rejection has occurred after applying RMT and providing a negative pressure mortuary room. This decline proves that religious conservative groups can accept this innovation to reduce rejection on religious grounds.
The special role of CXCL13 in Lyme neuroborreliosis: a case report
Authors: Erhart Deborah K. , Bracknies Vera , Lutz-Schuhbauer Susanne , Wigand Sonja , Tumani Hayrettin
Published: January 2022

The diagnosis of chronic lyme neuroborreliosis can be a challenge even for experienced neurologists. The clinical picture may be multifaceted, including polyradiculitis to cranial nerve palsies, meningitis, encephalomyelitis, encephalopathy and peripheral neuropathy. We report on a patient presenting with basal leptomeningoencephalitis associated with vasculopathy where the chemokine CXCL13 in cerebrospinal fluid played an important diagnostic role.
Canonical Thyroid Hormone Receptor β Action Stimulates Hepatocyte Proliferation in Male Mice
Authors: Hönes Georg Sebastian , Kerp Helena , Hoppe Christoph , Kowalczyk Manuela , Zwanziger Denise , Baba Hideo Andreas , Führer Dagmar , Moeller Lars Christian
Published: January 2022

Context

3,5,3’-L-triiodothyronine (T3) is a potent inducer of hepatocyte proliferation via the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Previous studies suggested the involvement of rapid noncanonical thyroid hormone receptor (TR) β signaling, directly activating hepatic Wnt/β-catenin signaling independent from TRβ DNA binding. However, the mechanism by which T3 increases Wnt/β-catenin signaling in hepatocytes has not yet been determined.

Objective

We aimed to determine whether DNA binding of TRβ is required for stimulation of hepatocyte proliferation by T3.

Methods

Wild-type (WT) mice, TRβ knockout mice (TRβ KO), and TRβ mutant mice with either specifically abrogated DNA binding (TRβ GS) or abrogated direct phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase activation (TRβ 147F) were treated with T3 for 6 hours or 7 days. Hepatocyte proliferation was assessed by Kiel-67 (Ki67) staining and apoptosis by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling assay. Activation of β-catenin signaling was measured in primary murine hepatocytes. Gene expression was analyzed by microarray, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

T3 induced hepatocyte proliferation with an increased number of Ki67-positive cells in WT and TRβ 147F mice (9.2% ± 6.5% and 10.1% ± 2.9%, respectively) compared to TRβ KO and TRβ GS mice (1.2% ± 1.1% and 1.5% ± 0.9%, respectively). Microarray analysis and GSEA showed that genes of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway—among them, Fzd8 (frizzled receptor 8) and Ctnnb1 (β-catenin)—were positively enriched only in T3-treated WT and TRβ 147F mice while B-cell translocation gene anti-proliferation factor 2 was repressed. Consequently, expression of Ccnd1 (CyclinD1) was induced.

Conclusions

Instead of directly activating Wnt signaling, T3 and TRβ induce key genes of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, ultimately stimulating hepatocyte proliferation via CyclinD1. Thus, canonical transcriptional TRβ action is necessary for T3-mediated stimulation of hepatocyte proliferation.
Development of a 3D atlas of the embryonic pancreas for topological and quantitative analysis of heterologous cell interactions
Authors: Glorieux Laura , Sapala Aleksandra , Willnow David , Moulis Manon , Salowka Anna , Darrigrand Jean-Francois , Edri Shlomit , Schonblum Anat , Sakhneny Lina , Schaumann Laura , Gómez Harold F. , Lang Christine , Conrad Lisa , Guillemot Fabien , Levenberg Shulamit , Landsman Limor , Iber Dagmar , Pierreux Christophe E. , Spagnoli Francesca M.
Published: January 2022

Generating comprehensive image maps, while preserving spatial three-dimensional (3D) context, is essential in order to locate and assess quantitatively specific cellular features and cell-cell interactions during organ development. Despite recent advances in 3D imaging approaches, our current knowledge of the spatial organization of distinct cell types in the embryonic pancreatic tissue is still largely based on two-dimensional histological sections. Here, we present a light-sheet fluorescence microscopy approach to image the pancreas in three dimensions and map tissue interactions at key time points in the mouse embryo. We demonstrate the utility of the approach by providing volumetric data, 3D distribution of three main cellular components (epithelial, mesenchymal and endothelial cells) within the developing pancreas, and quantification of their relative cellular abundance within the tissue. Interestingly, our 3D images show that endocrine cells are constantly and increasingly in contact with endothelial cells forming small vessels, whereas the interactions with mesenchymal cells decrease over time. These findings suggest distinct cell-cell interaction requirements for early endocrine cell specification and late differentiation. Lastly, we combine our image data in an open-source online repository (referred to as the Pancreas Embryonic Cell Atlas).
Echolocating Daubenton's bats are resilient to broadband, ultrasonic masking noise during active target approaches
Authors: Foskolos Ilias , Bjerre Pedersen Michael , Beedholm Kristian , Uebel Astrid Særmark , Macaulay Jamie , Stidsholt Laura , Brinkløv Signe , Madsen Peter Teglberg
Published: January 2022

Echolocating bats hunt prey on the wing under conditions of poor lighting by emission of loud calls and subsequent auditory processing of weak returning echoes. To do so, they need adequate echo-to-noise ratios (ENRs) to detect and distinguish target echoes from masking noise. Early obstacle avoidance experiments report high resilience to masking in free-flying bats, but whether this is due to spectral or spatiotemporal release from masking, advanced auditory signal detection or an increase in call amplitude (Lombard effect) remains unresolved. We hypothesized that bats with no spectral, spatial or temporal release from masking noise defend a certain ENR via a Lombard effect. We trained four bats (Myotis daubentonii) to approach and land on a target that broadcasted broadband noise at four different levels. An array of seven microphones enabled acoustic localization of the bats and source level estimation of their approach calls. Call duration and peak frequency did not change, but average call source levels (SLRMS, at 0.1 m as dB re. 20 μPa) increased, from 112 dB in the no-noise treatment, to 118 dB (maximum 129 dB) at the maximum noise level of 94 dB re. 20 μPa root mean square. The magnitude of the Lombard effect was small (0.13 dB SLRMS dB−1 of noise), resulting in mean broadband and narrowband ENRs of −11 and 8 dB, respectively, at the highest noise level. Despite these poor ENRs, the bats still performed echo-guided landings, making us conclude that they are very resilient to masking even when they cannot avoid it spectrally, spatially or temporally.
Anti-money laundering and terrorist financing compliance as a sustainability factor in the tourism industry
Authors: Χονδρογιάννης Μιχαήλ
Published: January 2022

Ο κλάδος της κρουαζιέρας στις μέρες μας είναι ένας κλάδος που προσελκύει χιλιάδες τουρίστες. Οι τουρίστες ωστόσο σήμερα έχουν γίνει ανεξάρτητοι και αναζητούν λεπτομέρειες για τα ταξίδια τους με τη βοήθεια του Web 2.0. Σε αυτή την έρευνα, εξετάζεται λεπτομερώς η φήμη της διαχείρισης και η συμμόρφωση με την καταπολέμηση της νομιμοποίησης εσόδων από παράνομες δραστηριότητες και τη χρηματοδότηση της τρομοκρατίας ως παράγοντα βιωσιμότητας στην τουριστική βιομηχανία, η οποία βασίζεται σε μεγάλο βαθμό στα σχόλια των κριτικών στο Διαδίκτυο που λαμβάνει υπόψη ένα άτομο που ενδιαφέρεται για κρουαζιέρες. . Για τις ανάγκες της παρούσας διπλωματικής εργασίας, ο τουρισμός εξετάζεται λεπτομερώς μαζί με τις παραμέτρους φήμης συμπεριλαμβανομένου του οικονομικού εγκλήματος και ο ερευνητής παρουσιάζει μια λεπτομερή ανάλυση για τις τουριστικές αλλαγές και τις ανάγκες φήμης του συγκεκριμένου κλάδου. Ο ερευνητής καταλήγει στο συμπέρασμα ότι η βιομηχανία της κρουαζιέρας εξαρτάται σε μεγάλο βαθμό από τη φήμη του Web 2.0 και των μέσων κοινωνικής δικτύωσης, ωστόσο δεν πρέπει να αφήσουμε στην άκρη τα παραδοσιακά κανάλια.
Η “Αντίληψη του τόπου” στην Περιβαλλοντική Εκπαίδευση
Authors: Φιλιππάκη Αμαλία , Καλαϊτζιδάκη Μαριάννα
Published: January 2022

Η αντίληψη του τόπου (sense of place) είναι βασική έννοια στην βασισμένη στον τόπο εκπαίδευση (place-based education). Οι δύο της συνιστώσες, η σύνδεση των μαθητών με τον τόπο (place attachment) και η απόδοση οικολογικής σημασίας στον τόπο (ecological place meaning) μπορεί να είναι επιδιωκόμενο αποτέλεσμα της Περιβαλλοντικής Εκπαίδευσης. Στην παρούσα εργασία γίνεται βιβλιογραφική παρουσίαση της αντίληψης του τόπου και παρουσιάζονται εμπειρικά αποτελέσματα από την μέτρηση της σε δύο τμήματα, ελληνόφωνου και αγγλόφωνου, του σχολείου Ευρωπαϊκής Παιδείας Ηρακλείου στo πλαίσιο διδακτορικής έρευνας – δράσης. Για τη μέτρηση της αντίληψης του τόπου εφαρμόστηκε κλίμακα αξιολόγησης, πριν και μετά από πρόγραμμα Περιβαλλοντικής Εκπαίδευσης βασισμένης στον τόπο, με δράσεις στην αυλή του σχολείου και στην πόλη. Διαπιστώθηκε στατιστικά σημαντική διαφορά ως προς την αντίληψη του τόπου μεταξύ των μαθητών των δύο γλωσσικών τμημάτων πριν την παρέμβαση. Μετά την παρέμβαση διαπιστώθηκε στατιστικά σημαντική αύξηση της οικολογικής σημασία του τόπου και στα δύο τμήματα ενώ δεν ήταν στατιστικά σημαντική διαφοροποίηση της σύνδεσης με τον τόπο.
Supplementary data on virus-like particles in the brainstem of Parkinson’s disease patients and controls
Authors: Dourmashkin Robert R. , Locker Peter , McCall Sherman A. , Hannah Matthew J.
Published: January 2022

In this study, we present 77 transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of human brainstem tissue from 11 cases of late onset Parkinson’s disease (PD). The tissues were fixed, embedded, sectioned, and stained for TEM application. In addition, we present 11 images from autopsy specimens of 1 case of human poliomyelitis infection as positive controls and 12 images from 8 cases of autopsy specimens of other conditions as negative controls. In the TEM images of the PD cases there were cytoplasmic inclusion bodies consisting of virus-like particles (VLP) 30 nm in diameter that were associated with endoplasmic reticulum membranes.  In the nuclei of the PD neurons there were VLP ranging from 40 nm to 50 nm in diameter. In the poliomyelitis cases, similar particles as were observed in PD which were interpreted to be poliomyelitis virus particles. In the negative controls one case was identified which showed similar VLP (Figure 1, controls).  A Lewy body was found in this “control” case (Figure 10) suggesting that this was an undiagnosed case of PD. Cytoplasmic ribosomes measuring approximately 17 nm were observed in the control neurons.
A deep learning segmentation strategy that minimizes the amount of manually annotated images
Authors: Pécot Thierry , Alekseyenko Alexander , Wallace Kristin
Published: January 2022

Deep learning has revolutionized the automatic processing of images. While deep convolutional neural networks have demonstrated astonishing segmentation results for many biological objects acquired with microscopy, this technology's good performance relies on large training datasets. In this paper, we present a strategy to minimize the amount of time spent in manually annotating images for segmentation. It involves using an efficient and open source annotation tool, the artificial increase of the training dataset with data augmentation, the creation of an artificial dataset with a conditional generative adversarial network and the combination of semantic and instance segmentations. We evaluate the impact of each of these approaches for the segmentation of nuclei in 2D widefield images of human precancerous polyp biopsies in order to define an optimal strategy.
Association of smoking status with hospitalisation for COVID-19 compared with other respiratory viruses a year previous: a case-control study at a single UK National Health Service trust
Authors: Simons David , Perski Olga , Shahab Lion , Brown Jamie , Bailey Robin
Published: January 2022

Background: It is unclear whether smoking increases the risk of COVID-19 hospitalisation. We first examined the association of smoking status with hospitalisation for COVID-19 compared with hospitalisation for other respiratory viral infections a year previous. Second, we examined the concordance between smoking status recorded on the electronic health record (EHR) and the contemporaneous medical notes.

Methods: This case-control study enrolled adult patients (446 cases and 211 controls) at a single National Health Service trust in London, UK. The outcome variable was type of hospitalisation (COVID-19 vs. another respiratory virus a year previous). The exposure variable was smoking status (never/former/current smoker). Logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomic position and comorbidities were performed. The study protocol and analyses were pre-registered in April 2020 on the Open Science Framework.

Results: Current smokers had lower odds of being hospitalised with COVID-19 compared with other respiratory viruses a year previous (ORadj=0.55, 95% CI=0.31-0.96, p=.04). There was no significant association among former smokers (ORadj=1.08, 95% CI=0.72-1.65, p=.70). Smoking status recorded on the EHR (compared with the contemporaneous medical notes) was incorrectly recorded for 168 (79.6%) controls (χ2(3)=256.5, p=<0.001) and 60 cases (13.5%) (χ2(3)=34.2, p=<0.001).

Conclusions: In a single UK hospital trust, current smokers had reduced odds of being hospitalised with COVID-19 compared with other respiratory viruses a year previous, although it is unclear whether this association is causal. Targeted post-discharge recording of smoking status may account for the greater EHR-medical notes concordance observed in cases compared with controls.
Case Report: ASI intervention on a child with autism in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alkhalifah Shahad , Allen Susan , Aldhalaan Hesham
Published: January 2022

Background: Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) is widely employed by occupational therapists working with clients who experience challenges in sensory integration, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, there is a dearth of research examining the feasibility of ASI outside of Western nations. This study documented the barriers associated with ASI in Saudi Arabia and assessed whether the intervention could improve process and participation skills.

Methods: A pre-test/post-test case study design was used. The participant was a 4-year-old girl with ASD from Saudi Arabia. Data were gathered on sensory processing, motor skills, and participation in activities of daily living. The study used semi-structured interviews and assessments (Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests, the Sensory Processing Measure-Preschool, and the Peabody Developmental Motor Scale-2) to develop goals, identify outcome measures, and plan an ASI intervention.

Results: Despite the limited availability of resources (e.g., toys, treatment spaces) and Arabic measures, improvements were observed on motor and sensory tasks and in occupational performance.

Conclusion: ASI that adheres to the ASI fidelity tool can be of value for Saudi Arabian children with ASD. Additionally, the study provides a stepping-stone to further research for occupational therapists in Saudi Arabia working with children with ASD.
Forecasting electricity consumption of Malaysia’s residential sector: Evidence from an exponential smoothing model
Authors: Ishak Izzaamirah , Othman Nor Salwati , Harun Nor Hamisham
Published: January 2022

Background: In Malaysia, residential electricity consumption has shown a steady upward trend year by year. Due to this increase in energy consumption, it is important to forecast the value of electricity consumption until the year 2032 to accommodate the electricity demand.

Methods: Three exponential smoothing models were compared to identify the most appropriate model in forecasting electricity consumption. The three exponential smoothing models are Simple, Holt, and Brown exponential smoothing. To identify the most appropriate model, a mean absolute percentage (MAPE) was chosen.

Results: The results show that Holt’s exponential smoothing has the best performance with the lowest MAPE score of 2.299.

Conclusions: Consequently, it was found that electricity consumption would substantially increase from 2647 ktoe (kilotonne of oil equivalent) to 3873 ktoe within the period of 2019 to 2032.
Changing the method of consent to increase the numbers of cadaveric donors in Saudi Arabia: the autonomy paradox
Authors: AL Shawan Deema , Albagmi Faisal , AlNujaidi Heba
Published: January 2022

Background: In Saudi Arabia, the gap between the demand for and availability of organs persists, with a total of 13,731 patients on the waiting list in 2019. Family refusal is a major obstacle limiting donation since their consent must be obtained prior to the retrieval of organs. The cause of family refusal is mainly due to their lack of knowledge of their loved ones' wish to become a donor. This paper aimed to compare three systems of obtaining consent in terms of effectiveness, respect for autonomy, and the cultural role of families in Saudi Arabia to ensure feasibility and effectiveness in increasing the number of donors.

Policy alternatives and implications: The consent systems include informed consent, presumed consent, and mandated choice. The mandated choice policy might be the optimal solution since it is the most likely to balance the respect for individual autonomy and the cultural role of families in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusions and recommendations: Mandated choice ensures the respect of autonomy while influencing the next of kin's decision to donate the organs. Additionally, a recommendation to decision makers is to utilize the Tawakkalna app to send alerts to the next of kin when a user registers as a donor with the users' consent. Moreover, more research should be dedicated to investigating the Saudi public's current culture and perceptions towards organ donation to ensure feasibility.
Developing and deploying an efficient genotyping workflow for accelerating maize improvement in developing countries
Authors: Offornedo Queen , Menkir Abebe , Babalola Deborah , Gedil Melaku
Published: January 2022

Background: Molecular breeding is an essential tool for accelerating genetic gain in crop improvement, towards meeting the need to feed an ever-growing world population. Establishing low-cost, flexible genotyping platforms in small, public and regional laboratories can stimulate the application of molecular breeding in developing countries. These laboratories can serve plant breeding projects requiring low- to medium-density markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) and quality control (QC) activities.

Methods: We performed two QC and MAS experiments consisting of 637 maize lines, using an optimised genotyping workflow involving an in-house competitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) genotyping system with an optimised sample collection, preparation, and DNA extraction and quantitation process. A smaller volume of leaf-disc size plant samples was collected directly in 96-well plates for DNA extraction, using a slightly modified CTAB-based DArT DNA extraction protocol. DNA quality and quantity analyses were performed using a microplate reader, and the KASP genotyping and data analysis was performed in our laboratory.

Results: Applying the optimized genotyping workflow expedited the QC and MAS experiments from over five weeks (when outsourcing) to two weeks and eliminated the shipping cost. Using a set of 28 KASP single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) validated for maize, the QC experiment revealed the genetic identity of four maize varieties taken from five seed sources. Another set of 10 KASP SNPs was sufficient in verifying the parentage of 390 F1 lines. The KASP-based MAS was successfully applied to a maize pro-vitamin A (PVA) breeding program and for introgressing the aflatoxin resistance gene into elite tropical maize lines.

Conclusion: This improved workflow has helped accelerate maize improvement activities of IITA's Maize Improvement Program and facilitated DNA fingerprinting for tracking improved crop varieties. National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) in developing countries can adopt this workflow to fast-track molecular marker-based genotyping for crop improvement.
Labor law
Authors: Lebedev Vladimir , Belinin Anatoliy , Voronkova Ekaterina , Komkov Sergey , Mel'nikova Valentina , Sapfirova Apollinariya , Agashev Dmitriy
Published: January 2022

The structure of the textbook corresponds to the structure of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation. what provides the practical value of this publication, allows you to systematically study labor law. The textbook is based on the current labor legislation, taking into account its changes.
For students, postgraduates, teachers of law schools and faculties, employees of personnel services and trade union organizations, practicing lawyers and persons interested in labor law.
“Courage in Ignorance”: Mothers’ Retrospective Accounts of Early Childbearing in Turkey
Authors: Kavas Serap
Published: January 2022

Although extensive research investigates the consequences of teenage motherhood, there is still very limited research exploring young mothers’ experiences in their own voices. This gap is particularly evident for those non-Western developing countries in which women’s voices are largely muted. This paper explores women’s perceptions and evaluations of their early motherhood, drawing on their lived experiences and retrospective accounts. This study also investigates how early first birth influences these mother’s subsequent fertility. The study adopts a qualitative method based on interviews with a total of 17 women in several cities in Turkey who had their first birth at a young age (ages 17-22). A qualitative approach is most suitable for this research area, which aims to explore young mothers’ interpretations of their fertility timing and the consequences of this event for their lives in general, including subjective evaluations and subtle meanings. A key finding of this study is that the interviewees describe early childbearing as a negative event in their life course, convey regret for having had an early first birth, and report a feeling of dissatisfaction with being a young mother. A second finding concerns the influence of early first birth on subsequent childbearing. The women’s accounts indicate that subsequent fertility operated as a compensation for the missed feelings of motherhood and served as an opportunity to heal from hurtful experiences. This study points to the importance of social context in determining the consequences of early fertility.