bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of macrophage inhibitory factor -1 polymorphisms with antiviral efficacy of type 1b chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Ye Songdao , Chen Yao , Lou Xiaoting , Ye Xuanmei , Yang Xunjun
Published: February 2021

The expression of macrophage inhibitory factor-1 (MIC-1) increases in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC), but whether MIC-1 level and its polymorphism affect the antiviral efficacy of CHC has not yet been reported. The present study aimed to investigate the association between MIC-1 polymorphism and antiviral efficacy in patients with CHC genotype 1b (CHC 1b). A total of 171 patients with CHC1b were recruited. The polymorphisms of rs1059369 and rs1059519 inMIC-1were detected by DNA sequencing. All patients received a standard dose of polyethylene glycol interferon + ribavirin (PR regimen), and divided into response, nonresponse, sustained virological response (SVR), and non-sustained virological response (NSVR) groups based on HCV RNA levels. The genotype distribution of the two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) did not differ between the response and nonresponse groups, SVR and non-SVR groups. However, the level of MIC-1 was positively correlated with ALT, AST, PIIINP, CIV, andHCVRNA (P < 0.05). Compared to before treatment, the level of MIC-1 in plasma was significantly decrease in the response group but not in the non-responsive group. Our results suggest that the level of MIC-1 in CHC1b is correlated with liver cell injury, liver fibrosis index, and viral load. However, the polymorphism of rs1059369 and rs1059519 may have negligible impact in expression of MIC-1 and efficacy of antiviral therapy in CHC patient.
Ethics-Based Auditing to Develop Trustworthy AI
Authors: Mökander Jakob , Floridi Luciano
Published: February 2021

A series of recent developments points towards auditing as a promising mechanism to bridge the gap between principles and practice in AI ethics. Building on ongoing discussions concerning ethics-based auditing, we offer three contributions. First, we argue that ethics-based auditing can improve the quality of decision making, increase user satisfaction, unlock growth potential, enable law-making, and relieve human suffering. Second, we highlight current best practices to support the design and implementation of ethics-based auditing: To be feasible and effective, ethics-based auditing should take the form of a continuous and constructive process, approach ethical alignment from a system perspective, and be aligned with public policies and incentives for ethically desirable behaviour. Third, we identify and discuss the constraints associated with ethics-based auditing. Only by understanding and accounting for these constraints can ethics-based auditing facilitate ethical alignment of AI, while enabling society to reap the full economic and social benefits of automation.
Active control of liquid film flows: beyond reduced-order models
Authors: Cimpeanu Radu , Gomes Susana N. , Papageorgiou Demetrios T.
Published: February 2021

The ability to robustly and efficiently control the dynamics of nonlinear systems lies at the heart of many current technological challenges, ranging from drug delivery systems to ensuring flight safety. Most such scenarios are too complex to tackle directly, and reduced-order modelling is used in order to create viable representations of the target systems. The simplified setting allows for the development of rigorous control theoretical approaches, but the propagation of their effects back up the hierarchy and into real-world systems remains a significant challenge. Using the canonical set-up of a liquid film falling down an inclined plane under the action of active feedback controls in the form of blowing and suction, we develop a multi-level modelling framework containing both analytical models and direct numerical simulations acting as an in silico experimental platform. Constructing strategies at the inexpensive lower levels in the hierarchy, we find that offline control transfer is not viable; however, analytically informed feedback strategies show excellent potential, even far beyond the anticipated range of applicability of the models. The detailed effects of the controls in terms of stability and treatment of nonlinearity are examined in detail in order to gain understanding of the information transfer inside the flows, which can aid transition towards other control-rich frameworks and applications.
PpGRAS12 acts as a positive regulator of meristem formation in Physcomitrium patens
Authors: Beheshti Hossein , Strotbek Christoph , Arif M. Asif , Klingl Andreas , Top Oguz , Frank Wolfgang
Published: February 2021

Key message

This study focused on the key regulatory function of Physcomitrium patens GRAS12 gene underlying an increasing plant complexity, an important step in plant terrestrialization and the evolutionary history of life.

The miR171‐GRAS module has been identified as a key player in meristem maintenance in angiosperms. PpGRAS12 is a member of the GRAS family and a validated target for miR171 in Physcomitrium (Physcomitrella) patens. Here we show a regulatory function of miR171 at the gametophytic vegetative growth stage and targeted deletion of the PpGRAS12 gene adversely affects sporophyte production since fewer sporophytes were produced in ΔPpGRAS12 knockout lines compared to wild type moss. Furthermore, highly specific and distinct growth arrests were observed in inducible PpGRAS12 overexpression lines at the protonema stage. Prominent phenotypic aberrations including the formation of multiple apical meristems at the gametophytic vegetative stage in response to elevated PpGRAS12 transcript levels were discovered via scanning electron microscopy. The production of multiple buds in the PpGRAS12 overexpression lines similar to ΔPpCLV1a/1b disruption mutants is accompanied by an upregulation of PpCLE and downregulation of PpCLV1, PpAPB, PpNOG1, PpDEK1, PpRPK2 suggesting that PpGRAS12 acts upstream of these genes and negatively regulates the proposed pathway to specify simplex meristem formation. As CLV signaling pathway components are not present in the chlorophytic or charophytic algae and arose with the earliest land plants, we identified a key regulatory function of PpGRAS12 underlying an increasing plant complexity, an important step in plant terrestrialization and the evolutionary history of life.
Reducing HIV/STI Risk Among Adolescents Aged 12 to 14 Years: a Randomized Controlled Trial of Project Prepared
Authors: Bauman Laurie J. , Watnick Dana , Silver Ellen Johnson , Rivera Angelic , Sclafane Jamie Heather , Rodgers Caryn R. R. , Leu Cheng-Shiun
Published: February 2021

Despite calls for evidence-based HIV/STI prevention programs for youth aged 12 to 14 transitioning to adolescence, few effective programs exist. In a two-group intent-to-treat randomized trial in the Bronx, NY, 397 participants were randomly assigned to Project Prepared or an attention control, TEEN. Participants completed surveys at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Prepared had two components, an 11-session program and a 3-week internship. Content covered sexual risk behavior, social cognitions, gender norms, relationships, and resilience. TEEN built communication skills and had the same intensity and structure as Prepared but no sexual content. In both, boys and girls were trained together in mixed groups of ~ 11 teens. Primary outcomes were HIV knowledge, self-efficacy, condom outcome expectancy, and behavioral intentions. Secondary outcomes were relationship expectations and endorsement of risky gender norms. Generalized estimating equation analyses showed youth randomized to Prepared had significant improvements compared to TEEN at T2 in HIV knowledge, sexual self-efficacy, and outcome expectancy for condom use. At T3, there were significant differences favoring Prepared in outcome expectancy for condom use, sexual self-efficacy, and intention for partner communication about HIV/AIDS or STIs. Analyses by gender showed program effects in both boys (intention to talk to a partner about condom use, abstinence self-efficacy, sexual self-efficacy, and condom outcome expectancy) and girls (gender norms, and abstinence outcome expectancy). Prepared effectively reduced risk in young adolescents. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT01880450, Protocol ID: 2008-551
Identifying the minimal important difference in patient-reported outcome measures in the field of people with severe mental illness: a pre–post-analysis of the Illness Management and Recovery Programme
Authors: Beentjes Titus A. A. , Teerenstra Steven , Vermeulen Hester , Goossens Peter J. J. , der Sanden Maria W. G. Nijhuis-van , van Gaal Betsie G. I.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Complementary interventions for persons with severe mental illness (SMI) focus on both personal recovery and illness self-management. This paper aimed to identify the patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) associated with the most relevant and meaningful change in persons with SMI who attended the Illness Management and Recovery Programme (IMR).

Methods

The effect of the IMR was measured with PROMs concerning recovery, illness self-management, burden of symptoms and quality of life (QoL). From the QoL measures, an anchor was chosen based on the most statistically significant correlations with the PROMs. Then, we estimated the minimal important difference (MID) for all PROMs using an anchor-based method supported by distribution-based methods. The PROM with the highest outcome for effect score divided by MID (the effect/MID index) was considered to be a measure of the most relevant and meaningful change.

Results

All PROMs showed significant pre–post-effects. The QoL measure ‘General Health Perception (Rand-GHP)’ was identified as the anchor. Based on the anchor method, the Mental Health Recovery Measure (MHRM) showed the highest effect/MID index, which was supported by the distribution-based methods. Because of the modifying gender covariate, we stratified the MID calculations. In most MIDs, the MHRM showed the highest effect/MID indexes.

Conclusion

Taking into account the low sample size and the gender covariate, we conclude that the MHRM was capable of showing the most relevant and meaningful change as a result of the IMR in persons with SMI.
To be Mother or not? Cultural Models of Motherhood and Their Meaning Effects on Gendered Representations
Authors: Turco Federica
Published: February 2021

In this paper I will focus on the concept of the person in its philosophical, representative and bodily facets, in a gender perspective. Starting from the interesting figure of Gianna Beretta Molla, known for having been beatified for having sacrificed her own life to save that of the child she was carrying, I’ll try to reason about some key concepts concerning women representation in modernity, such as motherhood, iconic figures and cultural models from which the meaning of feminine subjects itself depends.
Measuring Non-electoral Political Participation: Bi-factor Model as a Tool to Extract Dimensions
Authors: Koc Piotr
Published: February 2021

Political participation is a mainstay of political behavior research. One of the main dilemmas many researchers face pertains to the number of dimensions of political participation, i.e. whether we should model political participation as a unidimensional or multidimensional latent construct. Over the years, scholars usually have favored the solution with more than one dimension of political participation and they have backed the claim of multiple dimensions with a number of empirical tests. In this paper, I argue that the results from the frequently used testing procedures which rely on the model fit inspection and the Kaiser criterion can be very misleading and may yield in extracting too many dimensions. By employing bi-factor modeling to a European Social Survey dataset, I show that in a majority of countries political participation can be considered an essentially unidimensional latent quantity. I demonstrate that additional dimensions of political participation are very weak and unreliable and that we cannot regress them on external variables nor build composite scores based on them. These findings cast doubt on the conclusions of numerous previous studies where researchers modeled more than one dimension of political participation.
A wavelet-based approach for imputation in nonstationary multivariate time series
Authors: Wilson Rebecca E. , Eckley Idris A. , Nunes Matthew A. , Park Timothy
Published: February 2021

Many multivariate time series observed in practice are second order nonstationary, i.e. their covariance properties vary over time. In addition, missing observations in such data are encountered in many applications of interest, due to recording failures or sensor dropout, hindering successful analysis. This article introduces a novel method for data imputation in multivariate nonstationary time series, based on the so-called locally stationary wavelet modelling paradigm. Our methodology is shown to perform well across a range of simulation scenarios, with a variety of missingness structures, as well as being competitive in the stationary time series setting. We also demonstrate our technique on data arising in a health monitoring application.
Protonation sites and hydrogen bonding in mono-hydrobromide salts of two N,4-diheteroaryl 2-aminothiazoles
Authors: Böck Denise , Beuchel Andreas , Goddard Richard , Richter Adrian , Imming Peter , Seidel Rüdiger W.
Published: February 2021

The synthesis and structural characterization of N-(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)-4-(pyridin-2-yl)thiazol-2-amine mono-hydrobromide monohydrate (3) and N-(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)-4-(pyrazin-2-yl)thiazol-2-amine mono-hydrobromide 0.35 methanol solvate (4) are reported. The crystal structures of 3 (monoclinic, space group P21/n, Z = 4) and 4 (monoclinic, space group, C2/c, Z = 8) feature N,4-diheteroaryl 2-aminothiazoles showing similar molecular conformations but different sites of protonation and thus distinctly different intermolecular hydrogen bonding patterns. In 3, Namine–H⋯Br−, N+pyridine–H⋯Owater, and Owater–H⋯Br− hydrogen bonds link protonated N-(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)-4-(pyridin-2-yl)thiazol-2-amine and water molecules and bromide anions into a three-dimensional hydrogen-bonded network, whereas intermolecular N+methoxypyridine–H⋯Npyrazine hydrogen bonds result in hydrogen-bonded zigzag chains of protonated N-(6-methoxypyridin-3-yl)-4-(pyrazin-2-yl)thiazol-2-amine molecules in 4.
An Explanation to the Nusselt–Rayleigh Discrepancy in Naturally Convected Porous Media
Authors: Huang Po-Wei , Wellmann Florian
Published: February 2021

We model hydrothermal convection using a partial differential equation formed by Darcy velocity and temperature—the velocity formulation. Using the Elder problem as a benchmark, we found that the velocity formulation is a valid model of hydrothermal convection. By performing simulations with Rayleigh numbers in the non-oscillatory regime, we show that multiple quasi-steady-state solutions can be one of the reasons that caused the Nusselt–Rayleigh discrepancy found in previous experiments. The results reveal more understandings about the nature of uncertainty of convection modes in porous media.
‘Stray appetites’: a socio-ecological analysis of free-ranging dogs living alongside human communities in Bangalore, India
Authors: Bhalla Shireen Jagriti , Kemmers Roy , Vasques Ana , Vanak Abi Tamim
Published: February 2021

Across the developing world, humans and free-ranging domestic dogs share common spaces. The relationship between these dogs and humans can range from one of dependence, to apathy, to conflict. Given the high number of humans attacked by dogs every year in India, and the lack of an effective population control strategy, we seek to provide insights into the conflict and propose alternative population management options based on reducing the carrying capacity of the environment. We used a mixed methods approach to understand both ecological and sociological underpinnings of free-ranging dog-human relationships in Bangalore, India. We conducted a photographic capture-recapture survey of free-ranging dogs to estimate population size and linked it to the availability of potential food sources. We also conducted a qualitative survey to assess attitudes of residents towards the dog population. We found that dog population varied from 192 to 1888 per square kilometre across a gradient of housing densities. The density of houses, bakeries and garbage piles were significant predictors of dog population size. Crucially, as low as 10 to 18% of houses supported the large population of dogs, highlighting the need for residents to act responsibly towards the dogs. Further, we found that garbage, although significant, is a secondary food source to household-maintained dogs. Since on the whole, respondents expressed the desire for a reduction in dog population, we suggest decreasing the carrying capacity of the environment by targeting these three food sources.
The outcome of patients with myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) and impaired kidney function: a 3-year observational study
Authors: Zalewska-Adamiec Malgorzata , Malyszko Jolanta , Grodzka Ewelina , Kuzma Lukasz , Dobrzycki Slawomir , Bachorzewska-Gajewska Hanna
Published: February 2021

Background

Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) constitutes about 10% of the cases of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). It is a working diagnosis and requires further diagnostics to determine the cause of ACS.

Methods

In this study, 178 patients were initially diagnosed with MINOCA over a period of 3 years at the Department of Invasive Cardiology of the University Clinical Hospital in Białystok. The value of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated for all patients. The patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the value of eGFR: group 1—53 patients with impaired kidney function (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2; 29.8%) and group 2—125 patients with normal kidney function (eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2; 70.2%).

Results

In group 1, the mean age of patients was significantly higher than that of group 2 patients (77.40 vs 59.27; p < 0.0001). Group had more women than group 2 (73.58% vs 49.60%; p = 0.003). Group 1 patients had higher incidence rate of arterial hypertension (92.45% vs 60.80%; p < 0.0001) and diabetes (32.08% vs 9.60%; p = 0.0002) and smoked cigarettes (22.64% vs 40.80%; p = 0.020). Group 1 patients had higher incidence rate of pulmonary edema, cardiogenic shock, sudden cardiac arrest (13.21% vs 4.00%; p = 0.025), and pneumonia (22.64% vs 6.40%; p = 0.001). After the 37-month observation, the mortality rate of the patients with MINOCA was 16.85%. Among group two patients, more of them became deceased during hospitalization (7.55% vs 0.80%; p = 0.012), followed by after 1 year (26.42% vs 7.20%; p = 0.0004) and after 3 years (33.96% vs 9.6%; p < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis revealed that the factors increasing the risk of death in MINOCA are as follows: older age, low eGFR, higher creatinine concentration, low left ventricular ejection fraction, and ST elevation in ECG.

Conclusion

Impaired kidney function is diagnosed in every third patient with MINOCA. Early and late prognosis of patents with MINOCA and renal dysfunction is poor, and their 3-year mortality is comparable to patients with myocardial infarction with significant stenosis of the coronary arteries and impaired kidney function.
Exhibiting Inclusion: An Examination of Race, Ethnicity, and Museum Participation
Authors: Olivares Alexandra , Piatak Jaclyn
Published: February 2021

Museum visitors are not reflective of the diversity present in communities around the nation. In this study, we investigate the racial and ethnic diversity of art museum participants as well as the potential motivations and barriers to visiting a museum. Using the General Social Survey, we examine race and ethnicity and arts participation in the USA. We find Black individuals are less likely to attend an art museum than white individuals. Certain motivations and barriers to participating may explain part of the lack of diversity. We find Black and Latinx individuals are motivated to participate in art museums for cultural heritage reasons more than white individuals, but race and ethnicity are unrelated to perceiving admission fees as a barrier. This research highlights the urgency in the field to make museums more inclusive.
Industrial decarbonization under Japan’s national mitigation scenarios: a multi-model analysis
Authors: Ju Yiyi , Sugiyama Masahiro , Kato Etsushi , Matsuo Yuhji , Oshiro Ken , Silva Herran Diego
Published: February 2021

Energy-intensive industries are difficult to decarbonize. They present a major challenge to the emerging countries that are currently in the midst of rapid industrialization and urbanization. This is also applicable to Japan, a developed economy, which retains a large presence in heavy industries compared to other developed economies. In this paper, the results obtained from four energy-economic and integrated assessment models were utilized to explore climate mitigation scenarios of Japan’s industries by 2050. The results reveal that: (i) Japan’s share of emissions from industries may increase by 2050, highlighting the difficulties in achieving industrial decarbonization under the prevailing industrial policies; (ii) the emission reduction in steelmaking will play a key role, which can be achieved by the implementation of carbon capture and expansion of hydrogen technologies after 2040; (iii) even under mitigation scenarios, electrification and the use of biomass use in Japan’s industries will continue to be limited in 2050, suggesting a low possibility of large-scale fuel switching or end-use decarbonization. After stocktaking of the current industry-sector modeling in integrated assessment models, we found that such limited uptake of cleaner fuels in the results may be related to the limited interests of both participating models and industry stakeholders in Japan, specifically the interests on the technologies that are still at the early stage of development but with high reduction potential. It is crucial to upgrade research and development activities to enable future industry-sector mitigation as well as to improve modeling capabilities of energy end-use technologies in integrated assessment models.
An interdisciplinary team-training protocol for robotic gynecologic surgery improves operating time and costs: analysis of a 4-year experience in a university hospital setting
Authors: Vigo Francesco , Egg Rosalind , Schoetzau Adreas , Montavon Celine , Brezak Midhat , Heinzelmann-Schwarz Viola , Kavvadias Tilemachos
Published: February 2021

Main aim of this study is to assess the effect of a structured, interdisciplinary, surgical, team-training protocol in robotic gynecologic surgery, with the gradual integration of an advanced nurse practitioner. Data from all robotic surgical procedures were prospectively acquired. The surgical team consisted of one experienced surgeon and two surgical fellows and the scrub nurse team from three advance nurse practitioners, specialized in robotic surgery. The training was performed in a four-phase manner over 4 years and included theoretical training, hands-on training and team-communication skills enhancement. Scrub nurses increasingly adopted an active role during surgery. For a period of 4 years, 175 patients could be included in the analysis. All of them underwent a robotic gynecologic procedure. Mean docking time decreased from 45.3 to 27.3 min (p < 0.001), mean operating time from 235 to 179 min (p = 0.0071) and costs per case from 17,891 to 14,731 Swiss Francs (p = 0.035). There were no statistically significant changes in perioperative complications and conversions to laparotomy. An interdisciplinary long-term training protocol for high specialized robotic surgery within a “fixed” team with the gradually addition of an advanced study nurse improves the efficacy of the procedure in terms of time and costs. Although the surgery is performed quicker, the same performance and quality of surgical care could be reached.
Influence of degree of deformation on welding pore reduction in high-carbon steels
Authors: Behrens Bernd-Arno , Maier Hans Jürgen , Poll Gerhard , Overmeyer Ludger , Wester Hendrik , Uhe Johanna , Hassel Thomas , Pape Florian , Lammers Marius , Hermsdorf Jörg , Kaierle Stefan , Budde Laura , Saure Felix , Mildebrath Maximilian , Coors Timm , Faqiri Mohamad Yusuf , Büdenbender Christoph
Published: February 2021

Locally adapted properties within a machine component offer opportunities to increase the performance of a component by using high strenght materials where they are needed. The economic production of such hybrid components on the other hand represents a major challenge. The new tailored forming process chain, which is developed within the collaborative research center (CRC 1153) represents a possible solution to produce hybrid components. This is made possible by the use of pre-joined hybrid semi-finished products made from two different steel alloys, which are subsequently formed. The semi-finished products can be manufactured for example by means of deposition welding. Due to a thermal mechanical treatment, an overall higher component strength of the joining zone can be achieved. The deposition welding processes can be used to generate a cladding on a base material. During the welding, one of the most difficult tasks is to reduce the amount and size of pores in the joining zone. These pores can reduce the strength in the joining zone of the welded parts. However, additional pores can occur in the intermediate zone between the substrate and the cladding. In the presented study, the influence of the forming process on the closing of pores in the cladding and in the intermediate zone was investigated. Therefore, cylindrical specimen were extracted in longitudinal direction of the welding track by wire-cut eroding. These welding tracks are manufactured by plasma-transferred arc welding of AISI 52100 on a base plate made of AISI 1015. Further, specimens were prepared transversely, so that the base material, the intermediate layer, and the welded material are axially arranged in the specimen. The prepared specimen were checked for pores by means of scanning acoustic microscopy. Subsequently, an uniaxial compression test was carried out with various degrees of deformation and the two specimen designs were examined again for pores. A microstructure analysis was carried out after each step. The investigations show that there is a need for a minimum degree of deformation to reduce pores in the welded material. However, this required plastic strain cannot be achieved in the welded material of the hybrid specimen, which is a result of the homogeneous temperature distribution in the specimen. The homogeneous temperature distribution leads to different flow properties in the specimen, which means that the main plastic deformation is taking place in the base material.
Process chain for the manufacture of hybrid bearing bushings
Authors: Thürer Susanne Elisabeth , Chugreeva Anna , Heimes Norman , Uhe Johanna , Behrens Bernd-Arno , Maier Hans Jürgen , Klose Christian
Published: February 2021

The current study presents a novel Tailored Forming process chain developed for the production of hybrid bearing bushings. In a first step, semi-finished products in the form of locally reinforced hollow profiles were produced using a new co-extrusion process. For this purpose, a modular tool concept was developed in which a steel tube made of a case-hardening steel, either C15 (AISI 1015) or 20MnCr5 (AISI 5120), is fed laterally into the tool. Inside the welding chamber, the steel tube is joined with the extruded aluminum alloy EN AW-6082. In the second step, sections from the compound profiles were formed into hybrid bearing bushings by die forging. In order to set the required forming temperatures for each material—aluminum and steel—simultaneously, a tailored heating strategy was developed, which enabled successful die forging of the hybrid workpiece to the desired bearing bushing geometry. Using either of the case-hardening steels in combination with aluminum, this novel process chain made it possible to produce intact hybrid bearing bushings, which showed both macroscopically and microscopically intimate material contact inside the compound zone.
Multiple Sampling and Interpolation in Weighted Fock Spaces of Entire Functions
Authors: Escudero Luis Alberto , Haimi Antti , Romero José Luis
Published: February 2021

We characterize sampling and interpolating sets with derivatives in weighted Fock spaces on the complex plane in terms of their weighted Beurling densities.
Sentiment analysis of user feedback on the HSE’s Covid-19 contact tracing app
Authors: Rekanar Kaavya , O’Keeffe Ian R. , Buckley Sarah , Abbas Manzar , Beecham Sarah , Chochlov Muslim , Fitzgerald Brian , Glynn Liam , Johnson Kevin , Laffey John , McNicholas Bairbre , Nuseibeh Bashar , O’Connell James , O’Keeffe Derek , O’Callaghan Mike , Razzaq Abdul , Richardson Ita , Simpkin Andrew , Storni Cristiano , Tsvyatkova Damyanka , Walsh Jane , Welsh Thomas , Buckley Jim
Published: February 2021

Background

Digital Contact Tracing is seen as a key tool in reducing the propagation of Covid-19. But it requires high uptake and continued participation across the population to be effective. To achieve sufficient uptake/participation, health authorities should address, and thus be aware of, user concerns.

Aim

This work manually analyzes user reviews of the Irish Heath Service Executive’s (HSE) Contact Tracker app, to identify user concerns and to lay the foundations for subsequent, large-scale, automated analyses of reviews. While this might seem tightly scoped to the Irish context, the HSE app provides the basis for apps in many jurisdictions in the USA and Europe.

Methods

Manual analysis of (1287) user reviews from the Google/Apple playstores was performed, to identify the aspects of the app that users focused on, and the positive/negative sentiment expressed.

Results

The findings suggest a largely positive sentiment towards the app, and that users thought it handled data protection and transparency aspects well. But feedback suggests that users would appreciate more targeted feedback on the incidence of the virus, and facilities for more proactive engagement, like notifications that prompt users to submit their health status daily. Finally, the analysis suggests that the “android battery” issue and the backward-compatibility issue with iPhones seriously impacted retention/uptake of the app respectively.

Conclusion

The HSE have responded to the public’s desire for targeted feedback in newer versions, but should consider increasing the app’s proactive engagement. The results suggest they should also raise the backward compatibility issue, regarding older iPhones, with Apple.
Advanced imaging techniques for neuro-oncologic tumor diagnosis, with an emphasis on PET-MRI imaging of malignant brain tumors
Authors: Overcast Wynton B. , Davis Korbin M. , Ho Chang Y. , Hutchins Gary D. , Green Mark A. , Graner Brian D. , Veronesi Michael C.
Published: February 2021

Purpose of Review

This review will explore the latest in advanced imaging techniques, with a focus on the complementary nature of multiparametric, multimodality imaging using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET).

Recent Findings

Advanced MRI techniques including perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI), MR spectroscopy (MRS), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and MR chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) offer significant advantages over conventional MR imaging when evaluating tumor extent, predicting grade, and assessing treatment response. PET performed in addition to advanced MRI provides complementary information regarding tumor metabolic properties, particularly when performed simultaneously. 18F-fluoroethyltyrosine (FET) PET improves the specificity of tumor diagnosis and evaluation of post-treatment changes. Incorporation of radiogenomics and machine learning methods further improve advanced imaging.

The complementary nature of combining advanced imaging techniques across modalities for brain tumor imaging and incorporating technologies such as radiogenomics has the potential to reshape the landscape in neuro-oncology.
Actionable Principles for Artificial Intelligence Policy: Three Pathways
Authors: Stix Charlotte
Published: February 2021

In the development of governmental policy for artificial intelligence (AI) that is informed by ethics, one avenue currently pursued is that of drawing on “AI Ethics Principles”. However, these AI Ethics Principles often fail to be actioned in governmental policy. This paper proposes a novel framework for the development of ‘Actionable Principles for AI’. The approach acknowledges the relevance of AI Ethics Principles and homes in on methodological elements to increase their practical implementability in policy processes. As a case study, elements are extracted from the development process of the Ethics Guidelines for Trustworthy AI of the European Commission’s “High Level Expert Group on AI”. Subsequently, these elements are expanded on and evaluated in light of their ability to contribute to a prototype framework for the development of 'Actionable Principles for AI'. The paper proposes the following three propositions for the formation of such a prototype framework: (1) preliminary landscape assessments; (2) multi-stakeholder participation and cross-sectoral feedback; and, (3) mechanisms to support implementation and operationalizability.
Domain Experts on Dementia-Care Technologies: Mitigating Risk in Design and Implementation
Authors: Berridge Clara , Demiris George , Kaye Jeffrey
Published: February 2021

There is an urgent need to learn how to appropriately integrate technologies into dementia care. The aims of this Delphi study were to project which technologies will be most prevalent in dementia care in five years, articulate potential benefits and risks, and identify specific options to mitigate risks. Participants were also asked to identify technologies that are most likely to cause value tensions and thus most warrant a conversation with an older person with mild dementia when families are deciding about their use. Twenty-one interdisciplinary domain experts from academia and industry in aging and technology in the U.S. and Canada participated in a two-round online survey using the Delphi approach with an 84% response rate and no attrition between rounds. Rankings were analyzed using frequency counts and written-in responses were thematically analyzed. Twelve technology categories were identified along with a detailed list of risks and benefits for each. Suggestions to mitigate the most commonly raised risks are categorized as follows: intervene during design, make specific technical choices, build in choice and control, require data transparency, place restrictions on data use and ensure security, enable informed consent, and proactively educate users. This study provides information that is needed to navigate person-centered technology use in dementia care. The specific recommendations participants offered are relevant to designers, clinicians, researchers, ethicists, and policy makers and require proactive engagement from design through implementation.
Correction to: Adiponectin in Cerebrospinal Fluid from Patients Affected by Multiple Sclerosis Is Correlated with the Progression and Severity of Disease
Authors: Signoriello Elisabetta , Mallardo Marta , Nigro Ersilia , Polito Rita , Casertano Sara , Di Pietro Andrea , Coletta Marcella , Monaco Maria Ludovica , Rossi Fabiana , Lus Giacomo , Daniele Aurora
Published: February 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s12035-021-02331-y
Co-expression of Myoepithelial and Melanocytic Features in Carcinoma Ex Pleomorphic Adenoma
Authors: Ricci Costantino , Chiarucci Federico , Ambrosi Francesca , Balbi Tiziana , Corti Barbara , Piccin Ottavio , Pasquini Ernesto , Foschini Maria Pia
Published: February 2021

The presence of melanin pigment and melanocytic markers expression have been rarely reported in salivary gland tumors. Herein, two cases of carcinoma arising in pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland and showing diffuse expression of myoepithelial and melanocytic markers are described. The clinical-pathological clues useful in the differential diagnosis with melanoma are discussed. In addition, a review of the pertinent literature is also proposed, discussing the pathologic mechanisms potentially involved in this phenomenon.
Emergency medical services evaluations for chest pain during first COVID-19 lockdown in Hollands-Midden, the Netherlands
Authors: de Koning E. R. , Boogers M. J. , Bosch J. , de Visser M. , Schalij M. J. , Beeres S. L. M. A.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To assess whether the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 had negative indirect health effects, as people seem to have been reluctant to seek medical care.

Methods

All emergency medical services (EMS) transports for chest pain or out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in the Dutch region Hollands-Midden (population served > 800,000) were evaluated during the initial 6 weeks of the COVID-19 lockdown and during the same time period in 2019. The primary endpoint was the number of evaluated chest pain patients in both cohorts. In addition, the number of EMS evaluations of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and OHCA were assessed.

Results

During the COVID-19 lockdown period, the EMS evaluated 927 chest pain patients (49% male, age 62 ± 17 years) compared with 1041 patients (51% male, 63 ± 17 years) in the same period in 2019, which corresponded with a significant relative risk (RR) reduction of 0.88 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81–0.96). Similarly, there was a significant reduction in the number of STEMI patients (RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.32–0.85), the incidence of OHCA remained unchanged (RR 1.23, 95% CI 0.83–1.83).

Conclusion

During the first COVID-19 lockdown, there was a significant reduction in the number of patients with chest pain or STEMI evaluated by the EMS, while the incidence of OHCA remained similar. Although the reason for the decrease in chest pain and STEMI consultations is not entirely clear, more attention should be paid to the importance of contacting the EMS in case of suspected cardiac symptoms in possible future lockdowns.
Social-ecological analysis of timely rice planting in Eastern India
Authors: Urfels Anton , McDonald Andrew J. , van Halsema Gerardo , Struik Paul C. , Kumar Pankaj , Malik Ram K. , Poonia S. P. , Balwinder-Singh  , Singh Deepak K. , Singh Madhulika , Krupnik Timothy J.
Published: February 2021

Timely crop planting is a foundation for climate-resilient rice-wheat systems of the Eastern Gangetic Plains—a global food insecurity and poverty hotspot. We hypothesize that the capacity of individual farmers to plant on time varies considerably, shaped by multifaceted enabling factors and constraints that are poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, two complementary datasets were used to characterize drivers and decision processes that govern the timing of rice planting in this region. The first dataset was a large agricultural management survey (rice-wheat: n = 15,245; of which rice: n = 7597) from a broad geographic region that was analyzed by machine learning methods. The second dataset was a discussion-based survey (n = 112) from a more limited geography that we analyzed with graph theory tools to elicit nuanced information on planting decisions. By combining insights from these methods, we show for the first time that differences in rice planting times are primarily shaped by ecosystem and climate factors while social factors play a prominent secondary role. Monsoon onset, surface and groundwater availability, and land type determine village-scale mean planting times whereas, for resource-constrained farmers who tend to plant later ceteris paribus, planting is further influenced by access to farm machinery, seed, fertilizer, and labor. Also, a critical threshold for economically efficient pumping appears at a groundwater depth of around 4.5 m; below this depth, farmers do not irrigate and delay planting. Without collective action to spread risk through synchronous timely planting, ecosystem factors such as threats posed by pests and wild animals may further deter early planting by individual farmers. Accordingly, we propose a three-pronged strategy that combines targeted strengthening of agricultural input chains, agroadvisory development, and coordinated rice planting and wildlife conservation to support climate-resilient agricultural development in the Eastern Gangetic Plains.
Growth performance and wood structure of wavy grain sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) in a progeny trial
Authors: Quambusch Mona , Bäucker Cornelia , Haag Volker , Meier-Dinkel Andreas , Liesebach Heike
Published: February 2021

• Key message

Wavy grain, a rare figure type of wood, leads to highly priced timber in Acer pseudoplatanus L. The influence of this trait on growth performance and its causes are not known. Analyzed wavy and straight grain sycamore maple progenies show comparable growth performance in a field trial. Stability of wavy grain after vegetative propagation is confirmed and genetic inheritance indicated.

• Context

Wavy grain is a rare figure type of wood resulting from undulating fiber growth that leads to a decorative and highly priced timber in Acer pseudoplatanus L. with top positions on auction sales. Nevertheless, neither the influence of this trait on growth performance is known, nor have the causes been disentangled.

• Aims

Our objectives were to find out if wavy grain figure influences growth parameters essential for log quality and to gain insight into the causes of wavy grain by the analysis of a progeny trial and a seed orchard.

• Methods

In a progeny trial with 30-year-old F-1-offspring from selected wavy grained and straight grained trees, trunk diameter, tree height, and trunk shape were evaluated. Additionally, 21 trees of the trial and selected plus tree-grafts of a seed orchard were felled and analyzed for occurrence and intensity of wavy grain structure.

• Results

No effect of the wavy and straight grain parentage on growth was observed in the progeny trial. Of the felled trees, over 30% showed evidence of wavy grain compared to rare occurrence in natural stands. Wood structure analysis of plus tree scions confirmed the stability of wavy grain after vegetative propagation.

• Conclusion

Wavy grain seems to be genetically inherited, and there seems to be no statistically significant difference in commercially relevant traits in the progeny. This highlights the value of including wavy grain as a desired attribute in breeding systems of maple.
Nutritional indicators and metabolic alterations in outpatients with anorexia nervosa: a retrospective study
Authors: Speranza Enza , Marra Maurizio , De Filippo Emilia , De Caprio Carmela , Sammarco Rosa , Morlino Delia , Contaldo Franco , Pasanisi Fabrizio
Published: February 2021

Purpose

In patients living with Anorexia Nervosa (AN), dehydration and haemoconcentration, may prevent a correct interpretation of laboratory nutritional parameters. Our study aims to evaluate if some indicators of disease severity, as body mass index (BMI), Phase Angle (PhA) and months of amenorrhea may be predictors of metabolic alterations (serum albumin, liver enzymes).

Methods

In 154 outpatients with AN, case history was collected, and anthropometric and laboratory parameters measured. Patients were divided according to the following tertiles (T) of BMI, duration of amenorrhea and PhA: (1) BMI (T1 < 15.6; T2 15.6–16.8; T3 > 16.8 kg/m2); (2) Amenorrhea duration (T1 < 7; T2 7–14; T3 > 14 months); (3) PhA value (T1 < 4.64; T2 4.64–5.35; T3: > 5.35°).

ROC curves were used to determine which of these three indicators (BMI, PhA and amenorrhea duration) might better identify patients belonging to Group A or B (less than 3 or more metabolic abnormalities).

Results

The most frequent registered metabolic alterations were for alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase, cholesterol and hemoglobin. Aspartate aminotransferase, ALP and gamma glutamyl transferase abnormalities were frequent in the first tertiles of all the three indicators. Albumin was low in the T1 of BMI and PhA. No differences in nutritional alterations emerged according to amenorrhea duration. PhA had the best performance (AUCs: 0.721) in identifying patients with 3 or more abnormalities, with the optimal cut-off value of 4.5°.

Conclusions

Our data confirmed PhA as the more reliable predictor of metabolic alterations, followed by BMI and amenorrhea duration, especially in the first tertile.

Evidence-based medicine

Level 2.
Prenatal Ultrasonographic Molar Tooth Sign: Case Reports and Review of Literature
Authors: Elayedatt Rinshi Abid , Mathew Basil , Krishnan Vivek
Published: February 2021

Joubert Syndrome and Related Disorders (JSRD) refers to all disorders presenting as “molar tooth sign” (MTS) on brain imaging. Fetuses with JSRD present with relatively nonspecific signs on prenatal ultrasound varying from increased nuchal translucency, enlarged cisterna magna, cerebellar vermian agenesis, occipital encephalocele, ventriculomegaly, renal disease and polydactyly. However, the hallmark sign in the diagnosis is MTS and MRI is the imaging modality of choice. We report two cases in which MTS was identified on prenatal ultrasound at 22 and 21 weeks (wk) of gestational age respectively. The other prenatal findings on ultrasound included polydactyly and anteroposteriorly enlarged 4th ventricle and vermian hypoplasia in both, and, aortic stenosis evolving to hypoplastic left heart in the former. Prenatal MRI was not done. Amniocentesis was done in the one with associated cardiac anomaly which was reported as normal. In both cases, the couple opted for termination of pregnancy and declined fetal autopsy and further mutation analysis. Only a few cases of JSRD diagnosed on prenatal ultrasound, have been reported. Due to the autosomal recessive inheritance (with 25% recurrence) JSRD has to be differentiated from Dandy-Walker malformation and cranio-cerebello-cardiac syndrome. As definitive prenatal genetic testing may not be conclusive in Joubert syndrome (JBTS) due to the large number of pathogenic variants and genetic heterogenicity, the ability to identify the MTS sonographically early provides a valuable adjunct to prenatal diagnosis.
Knowledge-guided multiobjective particle swarm optimization with fusion learning strategies
Authors: Li Wei , Meng Xiang , Huang Ying , Mahmoodi Soroosh
Published: February 2021

Multiobjective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm faces the difficulty of prematurity and insufficient diversity due to the selection of inappropriate leaders and inefficient evolution strategies. Therefore, to circumvent the rapid loss of population diversity and premature convergence in MOPSO, this paper proposes a knowledge-guided multiobjective particle swarm optimization using fusion learning strategies (KGMOPSO), in which an improved leadership selection strategy based on knowledge utilization is presented to select the appropriate global leader for improving the convergence ability of the algorithm. Furthermore, the similarity between different individuals is dynamically measured to detect the diversity of the current population, and a diversity-enhanced learning strategy is proposed to prevent the rapid loss of population diversity. Additionally, a maximum and minimum crowding distance strategy is employed to obtain excellent nondominated solutions. The proposed KGMOPSO algorithm is evaluated by comparisons with the existing state-of-the-art multiobjective optimization algorithms on the ZDT and DTLZ test instances. Experimental results illustrate that KGMOPSO is superior to other multiobjective algorithms with regard to solution quality and diversity maintenance.