bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Course of Posterior Antebrachial Cutaneous Nerve: Anatomical and Sonographic Study with a Clinical Implication
Authors: García-Martínez Jose , Miguel-Pérez Maribel , Pérez-Bellmunt Albert , Ortiz-Miguel Sara , Viscor Ginés
Published: July 2021

The course of the posterior antebrachial cutaneous nerve (PACN) was studied via ultrasound (US) and dissection. The aim of this study was to reveal the anatomical relationships of PACN with the surrounding structures along its pathway to identify possible critical points of compression. Nineteen cryopreserved cadaver body donor upper extremities were explored via US and further dissected. During US exploration, two reference points, in relation with the compression of the nerve, were marked using dye injection: (1) the point where the RN pierces the lateral intermuscular septum (LIMS) and (2) the point where the PACN pierces the deep fascia. Anatomical measurements referred to the lateral epicondyle (LE) were taken at these two points. Dissection confirmed the correct site of US-guided dye injection at 100% of points where the RN crossed the LIMS (10.5 cm from the LE) and was correctly injected at 74% of points where the PACN pierce the deep fascia (7.4 cm from the LE). There were variations in the course of the PACN, but it always divided from the RN as an only branch. Either ran close and parallel to the LIMS until the RN crossed the LIMS (84%) or clearly separated from the RN, 1 cm before it crossed the LIMS (16%). In 21% of cases, the PACN crossed the LIMS with the RN, while in the rest of the cases it always followed in the posterior compartment. A close relationship between PACN and LIMS, as well as triceps brachii muscle and deep fascia was observed. The US and anatomical study showed that the course of PACN maintains a close relationship with the LIMS and other connective tissues (such as the fascia and subcutaneous tissue) to be present in its pathology and treatment.
Nomogram to Predict the Overall Survival of Colorectal Cancer Patients: A Multicenter National Study
Authors: Borumandnia Nasrin , Doosti Hassan , Jalali Amirhossein , Khodakarim Soheila , Charati Jamshid Yazdani , Pourhoseingholi Mohamad Amin , Talebi Atefeh , Agah Shahram
Published: July 2021

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third foremost cause of cancer-related death and the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer globally. The study aimed to evaluate the survival predictors using the Cox Proportional Hazards (CPH) and established a novel nomogram to predict the Overall Survival (OS) of the CRC patients. Materials and methods: A historical cohort study, included 1868 patients with CRC, was performed using medical records gathered from Iran’s three tertiary colorectal referral centers from 2006 to 2019. Two datasets were considered as train set and one set as the test set. First, the most significant prognostic risk factors on survival were selected using univariable CPH. Then, independent prognostic factors were identified to construct a nomogram using the multivariable CPH regression model. The nomogram performance was assessed by the concordance index (C-index) and the time-dependent area under the ROC curve. Results: The age of patients, body mass index (BMI), family history, tumor grading, tumor stage, primary site, diabetes history, T stage, N stage, and type of treatment were considered as significant predictors of CRC patients in univariable CPH model (p < 0.2). The multivariable CPH model revealed that BMI, family history, grade and tumor stage were significant (p < 0.05). The C-index in the train data was 0.692 (95% CI, 0.650–0.734), as well as 0.627 (0.670, 0.686) in the test data. Conclusion: We improved a novel nomogram diagram according to factors for predicting OS in CRC patients, which could assist clinical decision-making and prognosis predictions in patients with CRC.
Effects of Power and Ballistic Training on Table Tennis Players’ Electromyography Changes
Authors: Haghighi Amir Hossein , Zaferanieh Ali , Hosseini-Kakhak Seyed Alireza , Maleki Ali , Esposito Fabio , Cè Emiliano , Castellar Carlos , Toro-Román Víctor , Pradas Francisco
Published: July 2021

The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of ballistic and power training on table tennis players’ electromyography (EMG) changes. Thirty male table tennis players, who were able to perform top spin strikes properly, were randomly assigned to three groups: power training (PT; n = 10); ballistic training (BT; n = 10); and no training (CON = control group; n = 10). PT and BT were performed 3 times weekly for 8 weeks. Before and after training programs, a one-repetition maximum test (1RM) and the EMG activity of all the subjects’ upper/lower body muscles while performing top spin strokes were analyzed. After training, significant interactions (group × time) were observed in increasing 1RM strength in upper/lower muscles (p < 0.05). However, neither training type had any significant effect on muscle EMG activity. These findings suggest that there should not necessarily be any significant change in the EMG signal after BT and PT despite the increase in muscle strength.
Effects of Diet Control and Telemedicine-Based Resistance Exercise Intervention on Patients with Obesity and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Hsu Yen-I , Chen Ying-Chou , Lee Chia-Lun , Chang Nai-Jen
Published: July 2021

This study investigated the effects of home-based nutritional and telemedicine-based resistance exercise interventions on improving body composition, blood biochemistry, and lower-limb functional performance. In total, 66 obese patients with mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis were randomly divided into a diet control group (D), elastic band resistance exercise group (E), and diet control plus elastic band exercise group (D + E). Each group was supervised by a clinical dietitian and follow-up was conducted via telephone calls or a communication application to track the participants’ progress. After 12 weeks of intervention, the D (p < 0.001) and D + E (p < 0.001) groups achieved significant weight loss. The D + E group exhibited a significant reduction in body fat relative to the D (p = 0.019) and E (p = 0.012) groups. Compared with the D (p = 0.002) and E (p = 0.019) groups, the D + E group achieved significant improvements in the timed up-and-go test and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis total scale. The D + E group experienced significant improvements in total cholesterol (p = 0.001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.01), and triglyceride levels (p = 0.007) relative to other groups. In conclusion, individual diet control intervention combined with telemedicine-based resistance exercise intervention significantly improved the body composition, blood biochemistry, and lower-limb functional performance of the investigated population with comorbid conditions.
Using Dominance Analysis to Identify the Most Important Dimensions of Safety Culture for Predicting Patient Safety
Authors: Lee Seung Eun , Dahinten V. Susan
Published: July 2021

Studies have demonstrated associations between safety culture and patient safety based on the perceptions of healthcare professionals, but limited attention has been given to the perceptions of nurses. Moreover, most studies have used regression modeling, an approach that limits researchers’ ability to identify the most important predictors of patient safety due to intercorrelations among predictors in the model. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of seven dimensions of safety culture on nurse-rated patient safety and identify the relative importance of these dimensions for predicting patient safety. This correlational study used data from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s 2018 Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture. Data from 13,031 nurses working in surgical areas of 443 hospitals in the United States were examined using logistic regression and dominance analysis. Staffing adequacy was the strongest predictor of patient safety, followed by hospital management support for patient safety and organizational learning/continuous improvement. However, dominance analysis showed that hospital management support for patient safety was the most important predictor rather than staffing adequacy. Nurse managers and hospital administrators should role model a culture of safety and demonstrate their valuing of patient safety by providing sufficient resources, listening to and valuing staff suggestions regarding patient safety, and providing feedback about organizational changes to improve patient safety.
Protective Role of Glutathione in the Hippocampus after Brain Ischemia
Authors: Higashi Youichirou , Aratake Takaaki , Shimizu Takahiro , Shimizu Shogo , Saito Motoaki
Published: July 2021

Stroke is a major cause of death worldwide, leading to serious disability. Post-ischemic injury, especially in the cerebral ischemia-prone hippocampus, is a serious problem, as it contributes to vascular dementia. Many studies have shown that in the hippocampus, ischemia/reperfusion induces neuronal death through oxidative stress and neuronal zinc (Zn2+) dyshomeostasis. Glutathione (GSH) plays an important role in protecting neurons against oxidative stress as a major intracellular antioxidant. In addition, the thiol group of GSH can function as a principal Zn2+ chelator for the maintenance of Zn2+ homeostasis in neurons. These lines of evidence suggest that neuronal GSH levels could be a key factor in post-stroke neuronal survival. In neurons, excitatory amino acid carrier 1 (EAAC1) is involved in the influx of cysteine, and intracellular cysteine is the rate-limiting substrate for the synthesis of GSH. Recently, several studies have indicated that cysteine uptake through EAAC1 suppresses ischemia-induced neuronal death via the promotion of hippocampal GSH synthesis in ischemic animal models. In this article, we aimed to review and describe the role of GSH in hippocampal neuroprotection after ischemia/reperfusion, focusing on EAAC1.
Extracellular Inorganic Phosphate-Induced Release of Reactive Oxygen Species: Roles in Physiological Processes and Disease Development
Authors: Lacerda-Abreu Marco Antonio , Meyer-Fernandes José Roberto
Published: July 2021

Inorganic phosphate (Pi) is an essential nutrient for living organisms and is maintained in equilibrium in the range of 0.8–1.4 mM Pi. Pi is a source of organic constituents for DNA, RNA, and phospholipids and is essential for ATP formation mainly through energy metabolism or cellular signalling modulators. In mitochondria isolated from the brain, liver, and heart, Pi has been shown to induce mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) release. Therefore, the purpose of this review article was to gather relevant experimental records of the production of Pi-induced reactive species, mainly ROS, to examine their essential roles in physiological processes, such as the development of bone and cartilage and the development of diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, muscle atrophy, and male reproductive system impairment. Interestingly, in the presence of different antioxidants or inhibitors of cytoplasmic and mitochondrial Pi transporters, Pi-induced ROS production can be reversed and may be a possible pharmacological target.
Chitosan-Based Functional Films Integrated with Magnolol: Characterization, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity and Pork Preservation
Authors: Song Xueying , Liu Liu , Wu Xiaoxia , Liu Yongfeng , Yuan Jialu
Published: July 2021

The aims of this study were to develop the magnolol–chitosan films and study the positive effect of the combination of magnolol and chitosan. The addition of magnolol made the magnolol–chitosan films exhibit higher density (1.06–1.87 g/cm3), but the relatively lower water vapor permeability (12.06–7.36 × 10−11·g·m−1·s−1·Pa−1) and water content (16.10–10.64%). The dense and smooth surface and cross-section of magnolol–chitosan films were observed by environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) images. The interaction of magnolol and chitosan was observed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). After the addition of magnolol, the antioxidant capacity of magnolol–chitosan films was increased from 18.99 to 82.00%, the growth of P. aeruginosa was inhibited and the inhibition percentage of biofilm formation was increased from 30.89 to 86.04%. We further verified that the application of magnolol–chitosan films on chilled pork significantly reduced the increases in pH value, inhibited the growth of microorganisms and extended the shelf life. Results suggest that magnolol had a positive effect on magnolol–chitosan films and could be effectively applied to pork preservation.
BonMOLière: Small-Sized Libraries of Readily Purchasable Compounds, Optimized to Produce Genuine Hits in Biological Screens across the Protein Space
Authors: Mathai Neann , Stork Conrad , Kirchmair Johannes
Published: July 2021

Experimental screening of large sets of compounds against macromolecular targets is a key strategy to identify novel bioactivities. However, large-scale screening requires substantial experimental resources and is time-consuming and challenging. Therefore, small to medium-sized compound libraries with a high chance of producing genuine hits on an arbitrary protein of interest would be of great value to fields related to early drug discovery, in particular biochemical and cell research. Here, we present a computational approach that incorporates drug-likeness, predicted bioactivities, biological space coverage, and target novelty, to generate optimized compound libraries with maximized chances of producing genuine hits for a wide range of proteins. The computational approach evaluates drug-likeness with a set of established rules, predicts bioactivities with a validated, similarity-based approach, and optimizes the composition of small sets of compounds towards maximum target coverage and novelty. We found that, in comparison to the random selection of compounds for a library, our approach generates substantially improved compound sets. Quantified as the “fitness” of compound libraries, the calculated improvements ranged from +60% (for a library of 15,000 compounds) to +184% (for a library of 1000 compounds). The best of the optimized compound libraries prepared in this work are available for download as a dataset bundle (“BonMOLière”).
Quaternary Structure and Hetero-Oligomerization of Recombinant Human Small Heat Shock Protein HspB7 (cvHsp)
Authors: Muranova Lydia K. , Shatov Vladislav M. , Slushchev Andrey V. , Gusev Nikolai B.
Published: July 2021

In this study, a reliable and simple method of untagged recombinant human HspB7 preparation was developed. Recombinant HspB7 is presented in two oligomeric forms with an apparent molecular weight of 36 kDa (probably dimers) and oligomers with an apparent molecular weight of more than 600 kDa. By using hydrophobic and size-exclusion chromatography, we succeeded in preparation of HspB7 dimers. Mild oxidation promoted the formation of large oligomers, whereas the modification of Cys 126 by iodoacetamide prevented it. The deletion of the first 13 residues or deletion of the polySer motif (residues 17–29) also prevented the formation of large oligomers of HspB7. Cys-mutants of HspB6 and HspB8 containing a single-Cys residue in the central part of the β7 strand in a position homologous to that of Cys137 in HspB1 can be crosslinked to the wild-type HspB7 through a disulfide bond. Immobilized on monoclonal antibodies, the wild-type HspB6 interacted with the wild-type HspB7. We suppose that formation of heterodimers of HspB7 with HspB6 and HspB8 may be important for the functional activity of these small heat shock proteins.
The Biology of Classic Hairy Cell Leukemia
Authors: Bohn Jan-Paul , Salcher Stefan , Pircher Andreas , Untergasser Gerold , Wolf Dominik
Published: July 2021

Classic hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a rare mature B-cell malignancy associated with pancytopenia and infectious complications due to progressive infiltration of the bone marrow and spleen. Despite tremendous therapeutic advances achieved with the implementation of purine analogues such as cladribine into clinical practice, the culprit biologic alterations driving this fascinating hematologic disease have long stayed concealed. Nearly 10 years ago, BRAF V600E was finally identified as a key activating mutation detectable in almost all HCL patients and throughout the entire course of the disease. However, additional oncogenic biologic features seem mandatory to enable HCL transformation, an open issue still under active investigation. This review summarizes the current understanding of key pathogenic mechanisms implicated in HCL and discusses major hurdles to overcome in the context of other BRAF-mutated malignancies.
TDP-43 and Inflammation: Implications for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Bright Fiona , Chan Gabriella , van Hummel Annika , Ittner Lars M. , Ke Yazi D.
Published: July 2021

The abnormal mislocalisation and ubiquitinated protein aggregation of the TAR DNA binding protein 43 (TDP-43) within the cytoplasm of neurons and glia in the central nervous system (CNS) is a pathological hallmark of early-onset neurodegenerative disorders amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The pathomechanisms underlying abnormal mislocalisation and aggregation of TDP-43 remain unknown. However, there is a growing body of evidence implicating neuroinflammation and immune-mediated mechanisms in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration. Importantly, most of the evidence for an active role of immunity and inflammation in the pathogenesis of ALS and FTD relates specifically to TDP-43, posing the question as to whether immune-mediated mechanisms could hold the key to understanding TDP-43’s underlying role in neurodegeneration in both diseases. Therefore, this review aims to piece together key lines of evidence for the specific association of TDP-43 with key immune and inflammatory pathways to explore the nature of this relationship and the implications for potential pathomechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in ALS and FTD.
Promyelocytic Leukemia Proteins Regulate Fanconi Anemia Gene Expression
Authors: Munkhjargal Anudari , Kim Myung-Jin , Kim Da-Yeon , Jeon Young-Jun , Kee Young-Hoon , Kim Lark-Kyun , Kim Yong-Hwan
Published: July 2021

Promyelocytic leukemia (PML) protein is the core component of subnuclear structures called PML nuclear bodies that are known to play important roles in cell survival, DNA damage responses, and DNA repair. Fanconi anemia (FA) proteins are required for repairing interstrand DNA crosslinks (ICLs). Here we report a novel role of PML proteins, regulating the ICL repair pathway. We found that depletion of the PML protein led to the significant reduction of damage-induced FANCD2 mono-ubiquitination and FANCD2 foci formation. Consistently, the cells treated with siRNA against PML showed enhanced sensitivity to a crosslinking agent, mitomycin C. Further studies showed that depletion of PML reduced the protein expression of FANCA, FANCG, and FANCD2 via reduced transcriptional activity. Interestingly, we observed that damage-induced CHK1 phosphorylation was severely impaired in cells with depleted PML, and we demonstrated that CHK1 regulates FANCA, FANCG, and FANCD2 transcription. Finally, we showed that inhibition of CHK1 phosphorylation further sensitized cancer cells to mitomycin C. Taken together, these findings suggest that the PML is critical for damage-induced CHK1 phosphorylation, which is important for FA gene expression and for repairing ICLs.
Towards Novel 3-Aminopyrazinamide-Based Prolyl-tRNA Synthetase Inhibitors: In Silico Modelling, Thermal Shift Assay and Structural Studies
Authors: Pang Luping , Weeks Stephen D. , Juhás Martin , Strelkov Sergei V. , Zitko Jan , Van Aerschot Arthur
Published: July 2021

Human cytosolic prolyl-tRNA synthetase (HcProRS) catalyses the formation of the prolyl-tRNAPro, playing an important role in protein synthesis. Inhibition of HcProRS activity has been shown to have potential benefits in the treatment of fibrosis, autoimmune diseases and cancer. Recently, potent pyrazinamide-based inhibitors were identified by a high-throughput screening (HTS) method, but no further elaboration was reported. The pyrazinamide core is a bioactive fragment found in numerous clinically validated drugs and has been subjected to various modifications. Therefore, we applied a virtual screening protocol to our in-house library of pyrazinamide-containing small molecules, searching for potential novel HcProRS inhibitors. We identified a series of 3-benzylaminopyrazine-2-carboxamide derivatives as positive hits. Five of them were confirmed by a thermal shift assay (TSA) with the best compounds 3b and 3c showing EC50 values of 3.77 and 7.34 µM, respectively, in the presence of 1 mM of proline (Pro) and 3.45 µM enzyme concentration. Co-crystal structures of HcProRS in complex with these compounds and Pro confirmed the initial docking studies and show how the Pro facilitates binding of the ligands that compete with ATP substrate. Modelling 3b into other human class II aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) indicated that the subtle differences in the ATP binding site of these enzymes likely contribute to its potential selective binding of HcProRS. Taken together, this study successfully identified novel HcProRS binders from our anti-tuberculosis in-house compound library, displaying opportunities for repurposing old drug candidates for new applications such as therapeutics in HcProRS-related diseases.
MicroRNAs, Multiple Sclerosis, and Depression
Authors: Wang Hsiuying
Published: July 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that affects the brain and spinal cord. There are several disease courses in MS including relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS), primary progressive MS (PPMS), and secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Up to 50% of MS patients experience depressive disorders. Major depression (MD) is a serious comorbidity of MS. Many dysfunctions including neuroinflammation, peripheral inflammation, gut dysbiosis, chronic oxidative and nitrosative stress, and neuroendocrine and mitochondrial abnormalities may contribute to the comorbidity between MS and MD. In addition to these actions, medical treatment and microRNA (miRNA) regulation may also be involved in the mechanisms of the comorbidity between MS and MD. In the study, I review many common miRNA biomarkers for both diseases. These common miRNA biomarkers may help further explore the association between MS and MD.
Hepatic IFNL4 Gene Activation in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients with Regard to Etiology
Authors: Huschka Henriette , Mihm Sabine
Published: July 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignancy with a leading lethality. The etiology is quite diverse, ranging from viral infections to metabolic disorders or intoxications, and associates with specific somatic mutational patterns and specific host immunological phenotypes. Particularly, hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected liver is featured by an activation of interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes (ISGs; IFN signature), which we suppose is driven by type III IFNL4. Taking advantage of the TCGA collection of HCC patients of various different etiologies, this study aimed at validating our previous findings on hepatic IFNL4 gene activation in HCV infection in an independent and larger cohort of patients with advanced liver disease. In a cohort of n = 377 cases, the entirety of the sequencing data was used to assess the IFNL genotypes, and the cases were stratified for etiology. The number of IFNL4 transcripts within nonmalignant and malignant tissues was found to be more abundant in patients with HCV or HCV/HBV infections when compared to other risk factors. Moreover, in patients with HCV infection as a risk factor, a close, positive relationship was found between ISG activation and the number of functional IFNL4 transcripts. Data on this independent TCGA sample support the concept of an IFNL4-dependent HCV-driven activation of hepatic ISGs. In addition to that, they add to the understanding of etiology-related host immunological phenotypes in HCC.
Clinical Relevance of a 16-Gene Pharmacogenetic Panel Test for Medication Management in a Cohort of 135 Patients
Authors: Niedrig David F. , Rahmany Ali , Heib Kai , Hatz Karl-Dietrich , Ludin Katja , Burden Andrea M. , Béchir Markus , Serra Andreas , Russmann Stefan
Published: July 2021

There is a growing number of evidence-based indications for pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing. We aimed to evaluate clinical relevance of a 16-gene panel test for PGx-guided pharmacotherapy. In an observational cohort study, we included subjects tested with a PGx panel for variants of ABCB1, COMT, CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP4F2, DPYD, OPRM1, POR, SLCO1B1, TPMT and VKORC1. PGx-guided pharmacotherapy management was supported by the PGx expert system SONOGEN XP. The primary study outcome was PGx-based changes and recommendations regarding current and potential future medication. PGx-testing was triggered by specific drug–gene pairs in 102 subjects, and by screening in 33. Based on PharmGKB expert guidelines we identified at least one “actionable” variant in all 135 (100%) tested patients. Drugs that triggered PGx-testing were clopidogrel in 60, tamoxifen in 15, polypsychopharmacotherapy in 9, opioids in 7, and other in 11 patients. Among those, PGx variants resulted in clinical recommendations to change PGx-triggering drugs in 33 (32.4%), and other current pharmacotherapy in 23 (22.5%). Additional costs of panel vs. single gene tests are moderate, and the efficiency of PGx panel testing challenges traditional cost-benefit calculations for single drug–gene pairs. However, PGx-guided pharmacotherapy requires specialized expert consultations with interdisciplinary collaborations.
Prevalence of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) in Korea and Japan: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lim Eun-Jin , Son Chang-Gue
Published: July 2021

Background: Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a long-term disabling illness accompanied by fatigue unsolved by rest. However, ME/CFS is a poorly understood illness that lacks a universally accepted pathophysiology and treatment. A lack of CFS-related studies have been conducted in Asian countries. This study aimed to estimate and compare the prevalence of ME/CFS in Korea and Japan and conducted a meta-analysis. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and KMBASE for population-based prevalence studies of the two countries and synthesized the data according to the Fukuda case definition. Results: Of the eight studies (five in Korea, three in Japan) included, the total prevalence rate of Korean studies was 0.77% (95% CI 0.34–1.76), and 0.76% (95% CI 0.46–1.25) for the Japanese studies. The prevalence rate in females was approximately two-fold higher than males in Korean studies (1.31% female vs. 0.60% male), while the gender difference was less obvious in Japanese studies (0.76% female vs. 0.65% male). Conclusions: Further epidemiology studies on the female ME/CFS prevalence rate between countries may be required.
Is Compulsive Sexual Behavior Different in Women Compared to Men?
Authors: Kürbitz Laura I. , Briken Peer
Published: July 2021

The inclusion of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) in the ICD-11 has sparked research interest on this topic in recent years. This review aims to investigate gender differences in Compulsive Sexual Behavior (CBD) and persons with CSBD. While impulsivity and psychiatric comorbidity play a role in persons with CSBD regardless of gender, some gender differences can be identified. CSBD is more prevalent in men, with a higher rate of reported sexual behaviors and higher scores on questionnaires measuring CSBD related symptoms. Neuroticism and stress vulnerability seem to play a more important role in the symptomatology of CSBD in women. While it seems plausible that childhood adversities play a role in the development of CSB, the manner with respect to how these adversities affect men and women differently is still to be explored. More clinical studies including the female CSBD population are required to infer clinical implications.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies and Factors Associated with Seropositivity at the University of Salamanca: The DIANCUSAL Study
Authors: Muro Antonio , Belhassen-García Moncef , Muñoz Bellido Juan , Lorenzo Juanes Helena , Vicente Belén , Pendones Josué , Adserias José , Sánchez Hernández Gonzalo , Rodríguez Rosa Miguel , Vicente Villardón José , Burguillo Javier , López Andaluz Javier , Martín Oterino Jose , García Criado Francisco , Barbero Fausto , Morales Ana , Galindo Villardón Purificación , González Sarmiento Rogelio ,   on behalf of the DIANCUSAL Team
Published: July 2021

Background: Systematic screening for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 is a crucial tool for surveillance of the COVID-19 pandemic. The University of Salamanca (USAL) in Spain designed a project called “DIANCUSAL” (Diagnosis of New Coronavirus, COVID-19, in University of Salamanca) to measure antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among its ~34,000 students and academic staff, as the influence of the university community in the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in the city of Salamanca and neighboring towns hosting USAL campuses could be substantial. Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among USAL students, professors and staff and to evaluate the demographic, academic, clinical and lifestyle and behavioral factors related to seropositivity. Methodology: The DIANCUSAL study is an ongoing university population-based cross-sectional study, with the work described herein conducted from July–October 2020. All USAL students, professors and staff were invited to complete an anonymized questionnaire. Seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was detected and quantified by using chemiluminescent assays for IgG and IgM. Principal findings: A total of 8197 (24.71%) participants were included. The mean age was 31.4 (14.5 SD) years, and 66.0% of the participants were female. The seroprevalence was 8.25% overall and was highest for students from the education campus (12.5%) and professors from the biomedical campus (12.6%), with significant differences among faculties (p = 0.006). Based on the questionnaire, loss of smell and fever were the symptoms most strongly associated with seropositivity, and 22.6% of seropositive participants were asymptomatic. Social distancing was the most effective hygiene measure (p = 0.0007). There were significant differences in seroprevalence between participants with and without household exposure to SARS-CoV-2 (p = 0.0000), but not between students who lived in private homes and those who lived in dormitories. IgG antibodies decreased over time in the participants with confirmed self-reported COVID-19 diagnoses. Conclusions: The analysis revealed an overall 8.25% seroprevalence at the end of October 2020, with a higher seroprevalence in students than in staff. Thus, there is no need for tailored measures for the USAL community as the official average seroprevalence in the area was similar (7.8% at 22 June and 12.4 at 15 November of 2020). Instead, USAL members should comply with public health measures.
The ENDOPAIN 4D Questionnaire: A New Validated Tool for Assessing Pain in Endometriosis
Authors: Puchar Anne , Panel Pierre , Oppenheimer Anne , Du Cheyron Joseph , Fritel Xavier , Fauconnier Arnaud
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To study the measurement properties, the responsiveness and the minimal clinically important difference of the ENDOPAIN-4D: a new questionnaire for assessing pain in endometriosis. Methods: A prospective, observational, multicentre study was conducted including all women ≥18 years consulting for symptomatic proven endometriosis between 1 January 2017 and 30 June 2018 and volunteering to participate. Each patient had to answer a new self-administered patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaires (the ENDOPAIN-4D) at inclusion (T0) and 12 months after medical or surgical treatment (T1). Criteria defined by COSMIN were used to validate the questionnaire’s measurement properties. The minimal clinically important difference was estimated by the anchor-based method. Results: The study included 199 women. The ENDOPAIN-4D score had a four dimensional structure with good internal consistency (measured by Cronbach α): (I) pain-related disability (α = 0.79), (II) painful bowel symptoms (α = 0.80), (III) dyspareunia (α = 0.83), and (IV) painful urinary tract symptoms (α = 0.77). They produced four subscores that can be summed to obtain a single score (α = 0.61). The ENDOPAIN-4D total score ranged from 0 to 94.00 (mean ± SD: 46.7 ± 22). The total score was significantly correlated with the PROs used in endometriosis. Sensitivity to change was good with large effect sizes (ES) (mean of the differences: 36.3 p = 1.8 10−7, ES 0.76). The minimal clinically important difference of the global score was determined to be 10.9. Conclusions: The ENDOPAIN-4D questionnaire is easy to use, valid, and effective in assessing patient reported pain symptoms in women treated for endometriosis. This new instrument can be used as the primary outcome for future clinical trials and as a tool for routine patient follow-up.
Application of Artificial Neural Networks to Predict Beach Nourishment Volume Requirements
Authors: Bujak Damjan , Bogovac Tonko , Carević Dalibor , Ilic Suzana , Lončar Goran
Published: July 2021

The volume of material required for the construction of new and expansion of existing beach sites is an important parameter for coastal management. This information may play a crucial role when deciding which beach sites to develop. This work examines whether artificial neural networks (ANNs) can predict the spatial variability of nourishment requirements on the Croatian coast. We use survey data of the nourishment volume requirements and gravel diameter from 2016 to 2020, fetch length, beach area and orientation derived from national maps which vary from location to location due to a complex coastal configuration on the East Adriatic coast, and wind, tide, and rainfall data from nearby meteorological/oceanographic stations to train and test ANNs. The results reported here confirm that an ANN can adequately predict the spatial variability of observed nourishment volumes (R and MSE for the test set equal 0.87 and 2.24 × 104, respectively). The contributions of different parameters to the ANN’s predictive ability were examined. Apart from the most obvious parameters like the beach length and the beach areas, the fetch length proved to be the most important input contribution to ANN’s predictive ability, followed by the beach orientation. Fetch length and beach orientation are parameters governing the wind wave height and direction and hence are proxies for forcing.
Prediction of Genetic Groups within Brettanomyces bruxellensis through Cell Morphology Using a Deep Learning Tool
Authors: Lebleux Manon , Denimal Emmanuel , De Oliveira Déborah , Marin Ambroise , Desroche Nicolas , Alexandre Hervé , Weidmann Stéphanie , Rousseaux Sandrine
Published: July 2021

Brettanomyces bruxellensis is described as a wine spoilage yeast with many mainly strain-dependent genetic characteristics, bestowing tolerance against environmental stresses and persistence during the winemaking process. Thus, it is essential to discriminate B. bruxellensis isolates at the strain level in order to predict their stress resistance capacities. Few predictive tools are available to reveal intraspecific diversity within B. bruxellensis species; also, they require expertise and can be expensive. In this study, a Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) adapted PCR method was used with three different primers to discriminate 74 different B. bruxellensis isolates. High correlation between the results of this method using the primer OPA-09 and those of a previous microsatellite analysis was obtained, allowing us to cluster the isolates among four genetic groups more quickly and cheaply than microsatellite analysis. To make analysis even faster, we further investigated the correlation suggested in a previous study between genetic groups and cell polymorphism using the analysis of optical microscopy images via deep learning. A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) was trained to predict the genetic group of B. bruxellensis isolates with 96.6% accuracy. These methods make intraspecific discrimination among B. bruxellensis species faster, simpler and less costly. These results open up very promising new perspectives in oenology for the study of microbial ecosystems.
Artificial Intelligence: The Attitude of the Public and Representatives of Various Industries
Authors: Vasiljeva Tatjana , Kreituss Ilmars , Lulle Ilze
Published: July 2021

This paper looks at public and business attitudes towards artificial intelligence, examining the main factors that influence them. The conceptual model is based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework and was tested through analysis of qualitative and quantitative data. Primary data were collected by a public survey with a questionnaire specially developed for the study and by semi-structured interviews with experts in the artificial intelligence field and management representatives from various companies. This study aims to evaluate the current attitudes of the public and employees of various industries towards AI and investigate the factors that affect them. It was discovered that attitude towards AI differs significantly among industries. There is a significant difference in attitude towards AI between employees at organizations with already implemented AI solutions and employees at organizations with no intention to implement them in the near future. The three main factors which have an impact on AI adoption in an organization are top management’s attitude, competition and regulations. After determining the main factors that influence the attitudes of society and companies towards artificial intelligence, recommendations are provided for reducing various negative factors. The authors develop a proposition that justifies the activities needed for successful adoption of innovative technologies.
Early Response of Soil Properties under Different Restoration Strategies in Tropical Hotspot
Authors: Koryś Katarzyna A. , Latawiec Agnieszka E. , Mendes Maiara S. , Sansevero Jerônimo B. B. , Rodrigues Aline F. , Iribarrem Alvaro S. , Dib Viviane , Jakovac Catarina C. , Allek Adriana , Pena Ingrid A. B. , Lino Eric , Strassburg Bernardo B. N.
Published: July 2021

The Brazilian Atlantic Forest has undergone adverse land-use change due to deforestation for urbanization and agriculture. Numerous restoration initiatives have been taken to restore its ecosystem services. Deforested areas have been restored through active intervention or natural regeneration. Understanding the impact of those different reforestation approaches on soil quality should provide important scientific and practical conclusions on increasing forest cover in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest biome. However, studies evaluating active planting versus natural regeneration in terms of soil recovery are scarce. We evaluate soil dynamics under those two contrasting strategies at an early stage (<10 years). Reforestation was conducted simultaneously on degraded lands previously used for cattle grazing and compared to an abandoned pasture as a reference system. We examined soil physicochemical properties such as: pH, soil organic matter content, soil moisture, N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn, Cu, Al, and soil texture. We also present the costs of both methods. We found significant differences in restored areas regarding pH, Na, Fe, Mn content, and the cost. Soil moisture was significantly higher in pasture. Our research can contribute to better decision-making about which restoration strategy to adopt to maximize restoration success regarding soil quality and ecosystem services in the tropics.
Cold Welding in Hold Down Points of Space Mechanisms Due to Fretting When Omitting Grease
Authors: Merstallinger Andreas , Holzbauer Roland , Bamsey Nathan
Published: July 2021

Cold welding refers to an effect related to space (vacuum). The heavy vibrations during a launch subject interfaces (hold down points) to oscillating motions which may lead to formation of a kind of “friction weld”. If so, these mechanisms may get stuck, and deployment will be hindered. This may endanger the functionality of the mission (instruments) or even the whole spacecraft (if solar panels do not open). Several studies have been done to characterize material combinations (including coatings) for their ability to cold welding in space. Meanwhile, also during launch grease free contacts are demanded. If grease hat to be omitted, the risk of cold welding under fretting was found to increase (when testing in high vacuum). To rate this risk under launch conditions, the test method was recently extended for testing under launch conditions. The new tests procedure consists of fretting applied in the sequence in air, low vacuum and high vacuum. The paper shall present first results gained with this new method of testing in launch conditions and compare them to previous studies done in vacuum. Following the need of space industry on mechanisms for launch and in-orbit life, a first set of combinations of materials and coatings were selected for this new test sequence where fretting is now applied in a sequence of air, low vacuum and high vacuum. Under this sequence, the measured levels of adhesion and it’s evolvement was found to differ strongly from tests done formerly. The paper outlines these first results and compares them to existing data.
Chloride Diffusion in Concrete Modified with Polyacrylic Superabsorbent Polymer (SAP) Hydrogel—The Influence of the Water-to-Cement Ratio and SAP-Entrained Water
Authors: Kalinowski Maciej , Woyciechowski Piotr
Published: July 2021

This paper examines the influence of polyacrylic superabsorbent polymers (SAP) on the properties concerning chloride diffusion in cementitious materials. The conducted study investigated the influence of SAP on chloride diffusion in concretes of the initial w/c = 0.4 (for which the changes in compressive strength due to the SAP presence were negligible). The impact on the diffusivity of concrete of several variables was analyzed: the material characteristics of SAP, additional water added to the concrete to make up for the amount of water stored in the SAP structure, and the method of SAP dosing to the mix (either in a non-saturated form or in a hydrogel form). We found that, in the case of modifying concrete with polyacrylic SAP of a median particle size in dry conditions of 330 µm and without additional water, the coefficient of chloride ion diffusion was reduced to 65% of the reference value. The negative influence (increase) of increasing w/ctot by the amount of water initially entrained by SAP on the chloride diffusivity of concrete was identified. The conducted study indicates the premise of the mechanism of the water release from SAP in cementitious composites.
Effects of Electronegativity and Hydration Energy on the Selective Adsorption of Heavy Metal Ions by Synthetic NaX Zeolite
Authors: Fan Xianyuan , Liu Hong , Anang Emmanuella , Ren Dajun
Published: July 2021

The adsorption capacity of synthetic NaX zeolite for Pb2+, Cd2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ in single and multi-component systems were investigated. The effects of electronegativity and hydration energy on the selective adsorption, as well as potential selective adsorption mechanism of the NaX zeolite for Pb2+, Cd2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ were also discussed. The maximum adsorption capacity order of the heavy metals in the single system was Pb2+ > Cd2+ > Cu2+ > Zn2+, and this could be related to their hydration energy and electronegativity. The values of the separation factors (α) and affinity constant (KEL) in different binary systems indicated that Pb2+ was preferentially adsorbed, and Zn2+ presented the lowest affinity for NaX zeolite. The selective adsorption capacities of the metals were in the order, Pb2+ > Cd2+ ≈ Cu2+ > Zn2+. The trend for the selective adsorption of NaX zeolite in ternary and quaternary systems was consistent with that in the binary systems. Pb2+ and Cu2+ reduced the stability of the Si-O-Al bonds and the double six-membered rings in the NaX framework, due to the high electronegativity of Pb2+ and Cu2+ than that of Al3+. The selective adsorption mechanism of NaX zeolite for the high electronegative metal ions could mainly result from the negatively charged O in the Si-O-Al structure of the NaX zeolite, hence heavy metal ions with high electronegativity display a strong affinity for the electron cloud of the oxygen atoms in the Si-O-Al. This study could evaluate the application and efficiency of zeolite in separating and recovering certain metal ions from industrial wastewater.
Delay in a 2-State Discrete-Time Queue with Stochastic State-Period Lengths and State-Dependent Server Availability and Arrivals
Authors: Verdonck Freek , Bruneel Herwig , Wittevrongel Sabine
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we consider a discrete-time multiserver queueing system with correlation in the arrival process and in the server availability. Specifically, we are interested in the delay characteristics. The system is assumed to be in one of two different system states, and each state is characterized by its own distributions for the number of arrivals and the number of available servers in a slot. Within a state, these numbers are independent and identically distributed random variables. State changes can only occur at slot boundaries and mark the beginnings and ends of state periods. Each state has its own distribution for its period lengths, expressed in the number of slots. The stochastic process that describes the state changes introduces correlation to the system, e.g., long periods with low arrival intensity can be alternated by short periods with high arrival intensity. Using probability generating functions and the theory of the dominant singularity, we find the tail probabilities of the delay.
A Surrogate Model-Based Hybrid Approach for Stochastic Robust Double Row Layout Problem
Authors: Wan Xing , Zuo Xing-Quan , Zhao Xin-Chao
Published: July 2021

The double row layout problem is to arrange a number of machines on both sides of a straight aisle so as to minimize the total material handling cost. Aiming at the random distribution of product demands, we study a stochastic robust double row layout problem (SR-DRLP). A mixed integer programming (MIP) model is established for SR-DRLP. A surrogate model is used to linearize the nonlinear term in the MIP to achieve a mixed integer linear programming model, which can be readily solved by an exact method to yield high-quality solutions (layouts) for small-scale SR-DRLPs. Furthermore, we propose a hybrid approach combining a local search and an exact approach (LS-EA) to solve large-scale SR-DRLPs. Firstly, a local search is designed to optimize the machine sequences on two rows and the clearance from the most left machine on row 1 to the left boundary. Then, the exact location of each machine is further optimized by an exact approach. The LS-EA is applied to six problem instances ranging from 8 to 50 machines. Experimental results show that the surrogate model is effective and LS-EA outperforms the comparison approaches.